December 2019 Pagosa Springs Real Estate Newsletter

We had a series of snowstorms over the Thanksgiving holiday. I’m guessing I’ve got about 6 inches out in my yard. Wolf Creek Ski Area has a 39” base with 22” inches out of the latest storm. That was perfect timing for the Thanksgiving holiday. The big snow numbers bring tourists to town and provide a great boost to our local economy.

At my house, we just finished putting up our Christmas decorations while getting ready for two big events. First up is the Jann C. Pitcher Real Estate Christmas party a week from today. We are expecting about 23 people in all. Getting ready for this party reminds me of the good old days when I was in the restaurant business. The logistics of tables and chairs, dishware, menu, and furniture moving are all part of getting this party together. My wife, Laurie, has been prepping for two weeks. It’s been a lot of hard work, but we are excited to throw this big bash. This will be a prelude for our next gathering over the holidays, when it is our turn to have the family come down from Denver. My two children, Patrick and Heather, are bringing their spouses along with a total of four beautiful grandchildren. We’re even expecting three extra dogs to entertain our chocolate Labrador. With four dogs and four kids between ages four and seven, it’s going to be a free-for-all. Hopefully we all survive!

Now for the latest real estate news. Overall sales for 2019 are down 7%. Home sales are up 3%. Condo sales are down 19%. Land sales are down 11%. Sales in the month of November were down with 63 this year compared to 71 last November. Check out the full story in these charts.

In my opinion, this slowdown is due to lack of affordable inventory. Prices on the lower end continue to rise. High-end homes, not so much. Interest rates are still great. A 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is at 3.75% and a 15-year is at 3.0%. Our local economy mirrors the rest of the country and is chugging on all cylinders. My business continues to be very good.

Now for a new feature in our newsletter. I contacted our local Humane Society, and they have a homeless problem. Therefore, we are now featuring a pet of the month – a dog and a cat. Hopefully you can help. Call the Humane Society Shelter at 970-731-4771 for more information about adopting these animals.

I am Maya, and I have my best Merry Christmas scarf on just for you! I am just over one year old and am looking for a loving home.

We are Snow and Spirit, two white kitties looking for a home. Right now the Shelter has a special Holiday deal – adopt one, get one free! We’d love to be in your stockings this season so come and meet us both.

Thank you to all our troops overseas who are away from home and family for the holidays.