Top Real Estate Sellers Talk Trends

With its high-quality schools, active lifestyle, rich culture, and increasing internationality, Aspen is consistently named one of the hottest real estate markets in the country. And with the local and national economies strengthening, the Valley’s real estate market has certainly bounced off the bottom, bounding forward with new developments, invigorated land sales, and updated designs. “People aren’t leaving Aspen,” says Brian Hazen, vice president and broker associate with Coldwell Banker Mason Morse and Previews. And as new residents are drawn to the seat of Pitkin County, the region’s top brokers vie to accommodate them with the best in design, function, and lifestyle. Here, area brokers weigh in on top trends.

Carrie Wells, Broker Associate, Coldwell Banker Mason Morse Real Estate
People who have second homes here are now making Aspen their primary residence, saying this is where they want to be all the time. This is based on the terrific [public and private] schools, the healthy and active lifestyle, and the stimulating cultural amenities. Designwise, there’s a continuing trend toward clean lines, whether it’s a striking modern home or a warm contemporary—even the clean lines of a Hamptons-style home, with lots of white and hand-hewn wood beams. 970-925-7000, 970-948-6750

Brian Hazen, Vice President and Broker Associate, Coldwell Banker Mason Morse and Previews
In more traditional end-user and even resort markets, when people list their homes for sale, it’s typically because they’re relocating, which can weaken the market. Aspen is unique in that it’s so desirable. There’s a good portion of properties for sale, but people are simply changing lifestyles and desires for a certain type of property; they’re not leaving. We have the unique dynamic of being a community first and a resort second. Condos have always been strong, and they’re coming back dramatically because there’s a finite amount available. For entry-level clients, [condos] are at a price point that’s relevant to them, and they are able to get a toehold in Aspen. 970-920-7395, 970-379-1270

Doug Leibinger, Broker, Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty
It’s interesting [to] look back on sales data for the last couple years. There have been about 30 to 35 condominium sales annually the last few years in Snowmass, and, just in the last couple months, the Viceroy [Snowmass] alone has accounted for almost 30 sales. Other properties in Snowmass have keyed in to this market as well. All of a sudden we’re seeing a real uptick in activity in Snowmass, and particularly in the condominium market. It’s an encouraging sign. 970-923-2006, 970-379-9045

Joshua Saslove, Founder and Owner, Joshua & Co.
In the premium-homes market, there’s been a considerable increase in the demand for more modern or mountain modern architecture. The market is strengthening as well, which is especially seen in Red Mountain and the West End. The word is “positive.” The market is optimistic, and it’s only a question of how soon. [In many ways] it has already turned. After all, Aspen is one of the most sought-after markets in the world. 970-925-8810, 970-948-3876

Steven Shane, Broker and Owner, Shane Aspen Real Estate
What’s interesting is that the core trend has always been, and continues to be, views, location, and new. Buyers prefer new to old. There’s a move toward a more modern aesthetic. But [buyers] never compromise on functionality. They may need space for their art, but they’re not going to forfeit a two-car garage or a bedroom. 970-925-6063, 970-948-6005

Penney Evans Carruth, Broker, Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty
Land sales are the clear-cut barometer indicating when the real estate market really began to turn. In 2011, only seven lots sold in Aspen. Then boom—37 sales in 2012. And the momentum is continuing in 2013. I think spec builders see an opportunity because sales languished so profoundly during the downturn. Comparatively speaking, inventory today stands at a little more than 60 listings, which is a significant decline from the 80 properties that were available in 2011. 970-925- 2811, 970-379-9133