The life cycle of our homes and spaces is as natural as growth itself. We all have need for a suitable place to live, and the real estate market is something of a wild ride that's affected by myriad factors the world over. But within the uncertainties lies a universal cycle...the need for change over time. For every size of family and every era, there's a corresponding home that can best support us. From tiny, downtown studios to eight-bedroom family homes "in the hills", modest mid-mods to urban farms on an acre of the good stuff. In an ideal world, as we floated through the varied phases of life, we'd do the same with our spaces. We'd all make a pact to keep the cycle intact by "moving on" and moving in to new spaces at the appropriate times--we'd better identify what's needed to thrive and align ourselves with those homes that suit us best. In doing so, we'd put the climate of the market back into the hands of our own community.

The reality remains, however, that there are currently more people in our city looking for houses than there are houses available. Our population growth rate is among the top 5 (no joke) in the nation, as is our economic growth rate. Translation: the people just keep coming, and the housing market is...well, competitive. Many have a sense of trepidation about selling, and a fear that finding the next perfect home won't be so easy keeps them from moving on. Situations like this can slow the flow of the home cycle. But we're not here to deliver bad news, friends. In fact, we don't think it's a shortage of houses at all...we think it's a shortage of conversation.

In all likelihood, there are countless growing families in our valley whose homes are currently bursting at the seams, and who would love to sell their tidy space and purchase something bigger. Or an equal number of folks who have simplified in more ways than one and are dreaming of living smaller. It's as simple as a shoulder tap, really. We happen to know a few people, and with the right connections and conversations, we can all keep this wheel spinning. It may require some adjustment (perhaps something in this vein?), but as with any relationship in life, you've got to know when to move on. If your home has served you well, but you're in need of a change (be it big or small), just raise your hand...as ever, we'll be thrilled to help you out of this one and into the next.

Contact Corigan Kushma at cityhomeCOLLECTIVE to discuss your options | 435.770.8783