How to Find a Roaring Fork Valley Home in an Inventory Shortage

1. Connect With a Local Real Estate Agent

Our second tip is to work with a local agent who’s fully plugged into a strong community network of sellers and other agents. A local expert is more likely to know about listings that are not part of an MLS, or multiple listing service. These “pocket listings” may not be listed or advertised due to privacy reasons on the part of the seller. A knowledgeable local real estate agent may also know about “coming soon” properties that are not yet entered into an MLS.

Letting your Mason Morse agent know what you’re looking for—and your timeline for buying—will help them keep an eye out for upcoming properties. Our agents and brokers use their historical and ongoing knowledge about Aspen, Snowmass, and the Roaring Fork Valley to serve our clients every day.

Learn more about why you should work with a Mason Morse agent, especially in a tight market. We know where and how to find the perfect buyer, and we know who the sellers are.

2. Share Your Homebuying Criteria

Develop a list of features you want your home to have. Divide the list into “must have” and “optional.” Give those must-have features extra thought. You may want a first-floor master bedroom, but is it a must? Share your homebuying criteria with your agent so they can keep an eye out for properties that fit what you’re looking for.

3. Ask About Expired or Withdrawn Listings

Another strategy is to ask your agent look for expired or withdrawn listings that fit your homebuying criteria. Listings can expire for many reasons. Perhaps the seller didn’t get a good offer or listed during a slow season. Your agent can approach the seller on your behalf to find out if they may still be willing to receive an offer.

4. Ask About Long-Term Rental Properties

Owners who list long-term rentals sometimes sell their properties when the right offer comes along. Renting before buying is another way of dealing with low inventory. Living in a long-term rental puts you in the community where you can act quickly when homes are available. Our brokers and agents know the long-term rental market in the Roaring Fork Valley, including luxury rentals, condo rentals, and ski-in ski-out rentals.