WINTER IS FAST APPROACHING!

More than ever, and as Thanksgiving approaches, we are so thankful to live in our little mountain community that is safe and quiet during this fall off-season. It was a beautiful and productive summer, and everyone is looking forward to the beginning of a fantastic winter season with new terrain opening on Aspen Mountain. Here are a few Aspen/real estate highlights:

• Opening Day: Aspen and Snowmass Mountains are opening on Thanksgiving Day, November 23rd, with Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk to follow on December 9th.
   
• New Terrain on Aspen Mountain: The new terrain on Aspen Mountain will add 153 acres of skiing and riding, accessed by a high-speed quad (only a 4-minute ride!) east of the Gent's Ridge lift. Formerly referred to as Pandora’s, the area has been re-named Hero’s. This is in honor of those who brought this project to life, including Jim Crown, whose vision and leadership helped secure this expansion and who tragically passed away this summer. Located on the upper portion of the mountain, Hero’s will increase Aspen's skiable acreage by more than 20%,1,220 vertical feet, and more than 150 acres of new chutes, glades, and trails. The upper terrain is advanced, with intermediate lower terrain and egress to the new lift. Click Here to view the map.
   
• ​Aspen Market Update: Real estate prices are driven by a continuing lack of inventory in Aspen/Snowmass and this has rippled throughout the Roaring Fork Valley. In most categories, the average & median home sale prices have increased, particularly in the ultra-luxury sector. However, prices are property and neighborhood-specific – ask us for details. For example, if you just look at the average sales price for Aspen, Snowmass or Basalt, this does not begin to tell the whole story. Pricing can vary significantly depending on the specific location.  We are cautiously optimistic about the market as we head into 2024 and anticipate additional inventory coming on for the winter season. Aspen is still one of the safest and most desirable places in the world, with a very appealing climate and culture. 

WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT FROM A BUYER'S AGENT?

Following is a highlight of the services a top-notch buyer's agent should provide: 

• Neighborhood Education: Do you know all the amazing neighborhoods not just in Aspen, but in Snowmass Village, Woody Creek, Basalt, Carbondale & Missouri Heights? We know all of these markets and can educate you on the options, including sales history, pros & cons, and current opportunities.
   
• Contract Writing and Explanation: Delivering an expertly written contract may make the difference in securing a property in high demand. We can explain the ins and outs and provide options for timelines and important clauses.
   
• Negotiation: With over fifty-five combined years in the Aspen market, we have excellent relationships with our fellow brokers, and can offer creative solutions to give your offer the edge you may need. Additional negotiations are often required during the inspection period.
   
• Communication: A good portion of our business occurs off-market, through our stellar relationships in the local brokerage community as well as the wider Douglas Elliman network. Because we often find out about listings before they hit the open market, we can give our clients an unparalleled advantage.
   
• Connection to Subcontractors & Service Providers: From recommending the proper general inspectors & best subcontractors to attorneys, land planners, well & septic testing, builders, architects, designers, property managers & beyond, we are here to help connect you.
   
• Follow-up After the Sale: Often there are outstanding items to handle after Closing. We remain a loyal and trusted advisor and your go-to source for assistance.

The hard work often begins after placing a property under contract. Sellers have a representative advocating for their needs, and it is critical for buyers to have the same quality representation. Check out more information here.