Is Now a Good Time to Upsize in Highlands Ranch or Lone Tree, or Are Prices Expected to Drop Further?

Oct 13, 2025

Snippet answer: Despite modest price stabilization across South Denver, growing families in Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree are seeing more inventory, longer days on market, and better negotiation opportunities—making fall 2025 a favorable time to upsize before rates dip again.

🏡 Why South Denver Families Are Asking This Now

If your family has outgrown your current home, you’re not alone. Across the South Denver Metro area — especially in Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, and Centennial — move-up buyers are watching prices closely to decide whether now is the right moment to upsize.

After two years of record-high prices, the market in Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree is showing early signs of balance. Inventory is growing, homes are taking longer to sell, and prices have mostly plateaued — giving upsizing families a window of opportunity before renewed demand drives prices higher again.

📊 Current Market Snapshot: Highlands Ranch & Lone Tree

MarketMedian Sale Price (Sept 2025)YoY ChangeAverage Days on MarketInventory TrendHighlands Ranch$735,000+1.2%38 days↑ Moderate increaseLone Tree$980,000+30%46 days↑ Sharp increase

Sources: Redfin, ActiveRain Market Reports, Perfect House For You Blog

💡 What the Data Tells Us

  • More homes to choose from: Both Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree have seen inventory grow by double digits since summer 2025.

  • Slight cooling, not crashing: Prices are holding steady — but homes are taking 30–40% longer to sell.

  • Motivated sellers: Families relocating for work or downsizing after rate hikes are increasingly open to negotiation, including contingent offers.

For buyers upsizing from smaller homes in Littleton or Centennial, this means you may finally have leverage after several years of seller dominance.

🕰️ Timing the Market: Why Fall 2025 Could Be the Sweet Spot

Mortgage rates have hovered around 6.9–7.2%, but analysts from Freddie Mac and Mortgage News Daily predict potential softening in early 2026.

If rates dip while prices hold steady, affordability will actually improve — but so will competition.

That’s why October–December 2025 may be the most balanced time to make your move:

  • Inventory remains elevated.

  • Sellers are more flexible.

  • Price growth is flat or slightly negative.

  • You can negotiate inspections, seller credits, or even rate buydowns.

📈 In short: waiting for a “crash” could backfire if demand rebounds with lower rates.

🏘️ Neighborhood Snapshot: Highlands Ranch vs. Lone Tree

Highlands Ranch

  • Family-focused with strong HOA amenities, top-rated Douglas County Schools, and numerous community parks.

  • More diverse inventory under $900K, ideal for families upgrading from smaller Littleton or Centennial homes.

  • Popular neighborhoods for upsizing: Firelight, Eastridge, and Indigo Hill.

Lone Tree

  • Offers larger executive homes and newer builds with luxury amenities.

  • Convenient access to I-25, Sky Ridge Medical Center, and Park Meadows Mall.

  • Median prices are higher, but price-per-square-foot has leveled off — offering better long-term value than in 2023–24.

Both markets appeal to families seeking more square footage, larger yards, and walkable schools, but Highlands Ranch remains the more budget-friendly option for first-time upsizers.

💬 Real Estate Agent Insight

“Families upsizing in South Denver this fall are in the best position they’ve been in years. Homes aren’t flying off the shelf, and sellers are listening to offers — especially from local move-up buyers.”
— DMAR Market Trends Report, October 2025

💰 Pro Tip: Leverage Your Current Home Equity

According to CoreLogic, the average Colorado homeowner gained nearly $30,000 in equity over the past two years. That equity can cover:

  • Your next down payment

  • Closing costs

  • Upgrades or furnishings in your new home

Work with a local lender to explore bridge loans or HELOCs, allowing you to buy before you sell — a game changer for families who need space now.

🚪 What This Means for You

If your growing family is feeling squeezed and you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to upsize in the South Denver Metro area, the market’s subtle shift toward balance offers a rare moment of opportunity.

You can buy a larger home in Highlands Ranch or Lone Tree before prices or rates climb again — and negotiate on your terms.

❓FAQs

1. Should I wait until spring 2026 to buy a larger home?
Not necessarily. Spring typically brings higher demand and competition. If you find the right home now, you can often negotiate a better deal and refinance later if rates drop.

2. Can I make a contingent offer in this market?
Yes — sellers in South Denver are showing more flexibility, especially if your current home is already listed or under contract.

3. What if my current home hasn’t sold yet?
Bridge loans and temporary financing can help you buy before selling. Local lenders in South Denver are increasingly offering these options to move-up buyers.

📣 Call to Action

If your family is ready to stretch out and upgrade your lifestyle, let’s find the right fit in Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, or Centennial.

Contact Jacob Stark at 8z Real Estate, your trusted South Denver real estate professional, to explore upsizing options, market timing, and hidden opportunities before the next wave of demand hits.