Crested Butte and Gunnison Valley Real Estate Market Updates: What Early 2026 Is Really Telling Us
What’s actually happening in the Crested Butte and Gunnison Valley real estate market so far in 2026?
On paper, inventory suggests a buyer’s market — but buyer behavior tells a very different story.
A Snapshot of the Market So Far in 2026
As we move into spring, here’s what the real estate market looks like across Gunnison, Crested Butte, and Mt. Crested Butte:
- 23 properties sold totaling $27,851,500
- 33 properties went under contract totaling $42,170,000
- 69 new listings hit the market totaling $143,461,250
- 417 properties are currently for sale
If you only compare active listings to closed sales, the math points to roughly 18 months of inventory. At first glance, that suggests a buyer’s market.
But that headline number doesn’t reflect what’s actually happening on the ground.
Why Inventory Alone Is Misleading Right Now
Buyers didn’t just purchase 23 properties — they committed to 56 properties when you include both closed sales and new contracts.
That matters.
Even more telling:
The average sold price was about $1.21M
The average price of homes going under contract was higher, at $1.32M
This shows that buyers are still stepping up, especially for properties that are well positioned. Values are not declining — buyers are simply being more selective.
Not All 417 Listings Are Competing Equally
Another key insight: for every 10 properties that hit the market, about 8 went under contract.
What that tells you is the current inventory pool isn’t uniform.
Some listings:
Are overpriced
Are highly specific or niche
Are land parcels, which naturally take longer to sell
Meanwhile, properties that are priced correctly and presented well are still moving — often quickly. We’re also starting to see buyers revisit homes that have been on the market longer, likely influenced by improved interest rates and reduced competition.
What This Means If You’re a Seller
If you’re considering selling a home in Crested Butte or the Gunnison Valley, strategy matters more than ever.
Pricing, presentation, and timing are no longer optional details — they directly impact whether your property stands out or blends into the inventory count.
Homes that hit the market positioned correctly are still attracting serious buyers.
What This Means If You’re a Buyer
If you’re buying, the opportunity is nuanced.
Some properties are going under contract quickly, so hesitation can cost you the right fit. At the same time, homes that have been sitting on the market may offer real value — often with less competition and more flexibility.
The key is knowing which category a property falls into before you make your move.
Final Takeaway
Early 2026 is shaping up to be a selective but active market. Headlines may suggest one thing, but buyer behavior tells a more balanced story — one where well-positioned homes sell and thoughtful buyers still find opportunity.
And yes… here’s to a strong start to the year. Now, if it would just snow.
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