May is typically the strongest indicator of the direction of the real estate market for the remainder of the year and for May 2026, the direction was clear – we’re likely not going to have a groundbreaking year. There is plenty of energy in the market; however, in a month where new listings should bring on the upper limit of inventory, that just has not transpired. 2026 is looking a lot like a two steps forward, two steps back kind of year.
THE CRAFT BROKER
NORTHERN COLORADO HOMES
Sellers Sit on The Sidelines in May
Jared Reimer - The Craft Broker
Fort Collins Single Family Homes - May 2026
The single family market saw nearly 20 percent fewer new listings this last month as compared to May 2025. It seems many potential home sellers are waiting on the sidelines for better conditions, or at least more market certainty when putting their homes up for sale. Because of the fewer new listings, total active listings were down 14.6% as compared to May 2025. There were 236 homes sold, which was down 4.8% from last May. A bright spot for homeowners is that median sales price jumped to $637,500, likely due to the competition that comes when demand is higher than supply. Many of the move-up level homes (between $650,000 and $900,000) have been multiple offer scenarios with above list price bids. The real question will be – if the supply remains muted, will demand stay strong enough to prop up the market for the remainder of the year, or is the April-May-June demand our peak?
Fort Collins Attached Homes - May 2026
The condo/townhome market in Fort Collins mirrored the single family market, but at a higher magnitude. There were just 74 new listings in May, down 42% from May 2026. Home owners in the attached market are holding tight and holding firm. Total active listings were down to just 159 listings, 36% below May 2025 levels. The lack of supply did not affect values, interestingly enough, with the median value for attached homes coming in at $395,000, down 1.3% from May 2025 values.
Looking Ahead
Now, we hope that June is a bit of a bounce back month where both inventories show a bit of a pop, so eager (and even fatigued) buyers might get a break finding the right fit. Buyers need to know that while there is room for negotiation, depending on the segment of the market, there may be more competition than expected, and putting your best foot forward in a timely manner is the best approach. Sellers should take note: take the time to prepare your home expertly, do not rush to get to market. The time taken to prepare and present a turnkey, well priced home will pay off with increased demand and traffic.
(This article is provided as part of my position as Fort Collins Area Spokesperson for the Colorado Association of Realtors. Consider working with a Realtor who makes and reports the news, rather than just responds to it.)
I provide the expert guidance, resources and confidence to easily make a move in Northern Colorado. Every real estate transaction is unique and I work closely with you to develop a plan, strategy and approach to get the most out of your next sale or purchase. If you, a friend or a neighbor have a real estate need, please get in touch with me | Jared@TheCraftBroker.com or 970.222.1049
About the Author: Jared Reimer is a native Coloradoan and Partner at Elevations Real Estate in Old Town Fort Collins. He’s a community advocate, business champion, blogger, leader, tireless volunteer, innovator, thinker and expert on all things real estate in Fort Collins and surrounding Northern Colorado. You’re likely to find Jared spending quality time outside with his wife, Kacie, and kids, Hudson and Isla, or visiting with friends and clients throughout Fort Collins and Northern Colorado. Call or text Jared at 970.222.1049 or email him at Jared@TheCraftBroker.com