By Doug & Paige McLaughlin, REALTOR & Broker Associate, Mile High Living | RE/MAX Alliance
The Douglas County housing market looks different this fall than it did in the spring. Homes are taking 53 days to sell, buyers have more choices, and smart pricing matters more than ever. Whether you’re thinking about buying in Castle Rock, selling in Parker, or looking for acreage in Franktown, here’s what the numbers say and what they mean for you.
It’s also a good moment to say: the Mile High Living blog is back. Every Tuesday, our team will share local market updates, buying and selling tips, and neighborhood guides for Douglas and Elbert Counties. We’ve been helping families here for over 28 years, and we want this to be the place you come for straight answers.
Douglas County market at a glance: September 2026
| Measure | Sept 2026 | Sept 2025 | Change |
| Median sold price | $736,000 | $750,000 | -1.87% |
| Active listings | 1,680 | 1,765 | -4.82%] |
| Average days on market | 53 | 52 | +1.92 |
| Months of inventory | 4 | 3 | +33.33 |
| Sold vs. list price | 99% | 98.8% | +0.20 |
Source: REcolorado, Sept 2025 & Sept 2026.
What this tells us: We are navigating more of a buyer’s market with house prices down from this time last year. Homes are selling based on pricing.
How the market looks town by town:
Douglas County isn’t one market. Here’s a quick look at the areas we know best:
- Castle Rock: Median price | $720,000 | More new construction in Crystal Valley and The Meadows is giving buyers options.
- Parker: Median price | $699,900 | New home communities becoming available.
- Castle Pines: Median price | $ 879,320 | Luxury and golf-community demand.
- Franktown and acreage properties: Median price | $897,500 | Acreage with a touch of luxury.
- Elizabeth and Elbert County: Median price | $629,925 | Often more land and space for the money.
Want the numbers for your specific neighborhood? Ask us for a free market report.
What this means if you’re buying…
Fall and winter are often the best-kept secret for buyers. Fewer people are house hunting, and sellers who list now are usually serious.
- Negotiate beyond price. Ask for closing-cost help, a rate buydown, or repairs. Doug is a Certified Negotiation Expert, and these terms often save buyers more than a lower price would.
- Get pre-approved first. A strong pre-approval letter still makes your offer stand out, even with less competition.
- Look at homes that have been sitting. A listing past 60 days may have room to move.
- Watch interest rates. Rates are around 7.4% for 30 year mortgages right now. If they drop, more buyers will return and competition will rise.
Buying your first home? Our First-Time Homebuyer Guide for Douglas County is coming November 3. Subscribe to the newsletter so you don’t miss it.
What this means if you’re selling…
Buyers this season are choosy, so the homes that sell are the ones that are priced right and look their best.
- Price it right from day one. Overpriced homes sit, then sell for less after price cuts. A local pricing analysis makes the difference.
- Make it photo-ready. Most buyers see your home online first. Our teams has a unique eye in staging, so every listing gets that edge.
- Lean into the season. Warm lighting, a clean entry, and a cozy fireplace photograph well in fall.
- Don’t wait for spring if you’re ready. Fewer competing listings can mean more attention for yours.
Curious what your home is worth today? Get your free, no-obligation home valuation. We’ll send a local estimate based on real recent sales near you, not a website guess.
Frequently asked questions:
Is now a good time to buy a house in Douglas County? It depends on your plans, but fall often brings less competition and more motivated sellers. With 4 months of inventory, buyers have more room to negotiate than in recent years.
Are home prices dropping in Douglas County? The median sold price was $736,000 in September 2026, down 1.87% from a year ago. Prices vary a lot by town and home type, so a neighborhood-level look matters.
How long does it take to sell a home in Castle Rock or Parker? Homes across Douglas County averaged 53 days on market in September. Well-priced, well-staged homes typically sell faster.
Do I need a local real estate agent for acreage or rural property? Yes, it helps. Wells, septic systems, water rights, and zoning all affect value. Our team specializes in acreage and land in Franktown, Elizabeth, and Elbert County.
Let’s talk about your next move!
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious, we’re here to help. Call us at 303.906.7646 or book a free consultation at www.milehighliving.com.
What would you like us to cover next? Leave a comment below or send us your questions. We’ll answer them in an upcoming post.
