Living in Fort Collins The Podcast

Welcome to Living in Fort Collins, your trusted source for clear, local insight into the Northern Colorado real estate market.In this May 2026 Market Update, we break down what buyers and sellers in Fort Collins need to understand based on April’s housing data — and why the market right now is best described as two completely different environments depending on the home.This month we cover:• Median home price trends with month-over-month and year-over-year context• Days on market and how quickly homes are actually moving• Inventory levels using months-of-supply framing• New listings vs. closed sales — and where momentum is building or slowing• Interest rate movement and how it’s impacting affordability and buyer demandBut more importantly, we’re seeing a clear divide in the market.Some homes — typically well-priced, updated, and in strong locations — are moving quickly, seeing heavy showing activity, and in some cases receiving multiple offers.At the same time, other homes are sitting with little to no activity, requiring price reductions, and struggling to attract serious buyers.This “two market” dynamic is being driven by a combination of interest rates, buyer expectations, affordability pressure, and — most importantly — pricing strategy.For sellers, this is a market where precision matters more than ever. Pricing correctly from day one can be the difference between multiple offers and minimal showings.For buyers, this creates opportunity — but only if you understand where competition exists and where leverage can still be found.As always, this update blends real data with what we’re actively experiencing in showings, negotiations, inspections, and contracts across Fort Collins and Northern Colorado.If you’re a local homeowner debating whether to sell, or a buyer trying to navigate a market that’s no longer one-size-fits-all, this monthly update is designed to give you clarity and confidence.📲 Thinking about buying or selling in Fort Collins?If you want a clear, data-backed strategy tailored to your situation, let’s connect.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 [email protected]🌐 soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:🛒 Walmart Upgrading Stores Across Colorado — 18 locations (including Fort Collins and Timnath) will see major remodels in 2026, featuring updated layouts, expanded pickup areas, and improved in-store experiences as part of a broader $450M investment statewide.🏭 Advanced Manufacturing Expanding in Loveland — Denmark-based Multicut is opening a new facility at the Forge Campus, bringing 82 high-paying jobs and strengthening Northern Colorado’s role in aerospace and defense manufacturing.🥩 Sundance Steakhouse Site Demolished — The longtime Fort Collins landmark has been torn down and will be converted into an industrial outdoor storage site, marking a major shift from its historic use.🏬 Old Albertsons Turning Into Event Space — The city is transforming the vacant North College site into a temporary community hub with markets, food trucks, live events, and public gathering space using a “tactical urbanism” approach.🏥 Banner Health Expands in Timnath — A new clinic opens on Harmony Road offering primary care, pediatrics, same-day care, and lab services to support rapid growth in the area.🏡 Fort Collins Ranked for Retirement — Fort Collins lands #22 in the nation for retirement affordability, highlighting its balance of lifestyle and cost compared to other Colorado cities.🏗️ $100M Southeast Community Center Approved — A major investment expanding recreation, library access, and community space in southeast Fort Collins — expected to boost quality of life and long-term housing desirability.🌎 Climate Spending Under Scrutiny — Residents are pushing for clearer ROI on climate initiatives, focusing on cost per CO₂ reduction — a debate likely to shape future policy decisions.📡 Surveillance Debate Intensifies — Flock license plate reader cameras continue to be a flashpoint issue around privacy and data usage.🏘️ ADU Strategy Moving Forward — Council is advancing an ADU grant program and broader housing action plan to address supply challenges and affordability.💧 Water Restrictions Likely Coming Soon — City staff signaled potential watering restrictions in the near future as part of long-term water management planning.• Spring College Nights at Fort Fun — May 1• Art Week Fort Collins — May 1–9• Run Club at Odell Brewing — Weekly Tuesday• National Fitness Day Workout — May 2• Spring Potters’ Sale — May 1–3• Mornings at McKee — April 30📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions with both data and boots-on-the-ground insight.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:🏫 PSD Regains Charter School Authority — Poudre School District now has exclusive control over approving new charter schools starting in 2026–27, restoring local decision-making after a state board vote. 🔬 Preston Middle School Wins State Title (Again) — Preston reclaimed the Science Olympiad championship, marking its 15th title and continuing one of the most dominant academic programs in Colorado. 📡 Surveillance Debate Could Go to Voters — A proposed ordinance could require public approval for most city surveillance tools, including cameras, drones, and license plate readers—raising major questions around privacy vs. public safety. 💧 More Water Available Despite Drought — Northern Water increased the 2026 CBT water quota to 80%, thanks to strong reservoir storage and system conditions—even as drought concerns continue. 🎶 FoCoMX Returns to Downtown — The Fort Collins Music eXperiment is back April 24–25, turning downtown into a citywide music festival with hundreds of artists and venues. 🍺 Downtown Loveland Brewing Expansion — Two breweries are expanding into new downtown locations, signaling continued investment and revitalization despite industry-wide challenges. 🔥 Fire Authority Funding Pressure — Rising costs and aging infrastructure may require a future sales tax vote to sustain fire services. 💼 $1.7 Billion in Economic Projects — Fort Collins is actively pursuing major business attraction efforts, signaling significant growth potential ahead. 💻 Major ERP System Overhaul Coming — A multi-year upgrade to the city’s internal financial and operational systems is underway to improve long-term efficiency. 🤝 Regional Collaboration Increasing — Northern Colorado cities are working together more strategically to attract large employers and economic opportunities. ⚖️ Public Pushback on Free Speech & Surveillance — Residents raised concerns about both policy restrictions and data usage, signaling ongoing tension between governance and civil liberties. • FoCoMX 2026 — April 24–25 | Downtown Fort Collins• Drug Take Back Day — April 25 | Windsor• Colorado Eagles Playoffs — April 22 & 24 | Blue Arena• NOCO Half Marathon & 10K — April 25 | Boyd Lake📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions with both data and boots-on-the-ground insight.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:🚆 Passenger Rail Gets a Name: “Colorado Connector (CoCo)”The future Front Range rail line connecting Fort Collins to Pueblo has officially been named Colorado Connector. The first phase (Fort Collins to Denver) is already considered financially feasible, with service potentially launching around 2029. 🛢️ 50 Oil & Gas Wells to Be Plugged in Larimer CountyLarimer County will plug 50 wells—including several in Fort Collins—by 2028 using state funding. The effort addresses aging infrastructure and environmental risks tied to inactive and non-producing wells. 🏗️ Midtown Landmark DemolishedThe former Spradley-Barr dealership at College & Drake has officially been demolished after more than 60 years. The site is expected to move forward with a QuikTrip development and a new electric substation. 💻 Major City Systems Upgrade (ERP) — Fort Collins is preparing for a multi-year overhaul of its core financial and HR systems to improve efficiency and scalability. 📈 More Structured Economic Development Strategy — The city is refining how it attracts and supports both large employers and small businesses as part of a more proactive economic approach. 🚒 Fire Authority Facing Financial Pressure — Long-term funding challenges for Poudre Fire Authority could require future tax or policy decisions. ⚖️ Public Concerns Around Free Speech — Residents raised constitutional concerns about advocacy restrictions at city-sponsored events, signaling potential legal and policy debates ahead. 🤝 Strong Civic Engagement — With 200+ applicants and ~70 appointments to boards and commissions, Fort Collins continues to see high levels of community involvement. • Horsetooth Half Marathon — April 19 | New Belgium• Great Western Trail Race — April 18 | Severance• Fort Collins Foodie Walk — April 18 | Downtown• Final Foothills Winter Farmers Market — April 18• Polar Plunge & 5K — April 18 | Windsor Lake• Rocky Mountain RepRap Festival — April 18–19 | Loveland📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions with both data and boots-on-the-ground insight.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:🔥 Wildfire Near Wellington Homes Quickly Contained — Crews responded to a vegetation fire that spread across more than an acre near homes in Wellington. The quick response prevented further damage, highlighting ongoing wildfire risk as conditions warm. 🍺 Fort Collins Beer Bracket Is Back — The Coloradoan’s annual March-style beer bracket is live, featuring 64 local brews competing to be crowned the best in Fort Collins — driven by community voting. 🎆 No Fourth of July Parade in 2026 — Fort Collins is replacing its traditional parade with a more interactive community-focused event due to declining participation, rising costs, and evolving safety requirements. Fireworks and other celebrations will continue. 🏗️ Midtown Redevelopment Moves Forward (QuikTrip Approved) — The long-vacant Spradley Barr site at Drake & College is moving toward demolition and redevelopment after QuikTrip’s gas station proposal received approval despite local opposition. 🏘️ Future Plans for the Book Ranch Site — A potential mixed-use redevelopment with housing and retail is being explored along South College, continuing the corridor’s shift toward higher-density, mixed-use development. 🌱 Polestar Village Breaks Ground — A new 20-acre community focused on spirituality and new urbanism begins construction in west Fort Collins, eventually bringing 144 housing units and shared community amenities. ✈️ Airport Runway Expansion Gets Start Date — The Northern Colorado Regional Airport runway widening project begins June 1, aiming to support future commercial air service with phased construction through November. 📊 State Budget Pressures May Impact Cities — Colorado’s projected ~$399M shortfall is pushing potential cost burdens onto municipalities, which could impact Fort Collins through higher local costs or reduced state support. 🏘️ Regional Housing Affordability Gap Widens — Data shows a growing disconnect between incomes and home prices — with a gap of up to $300K at median income levels — while naturally affordable rental units have dropped from 64% in 2010 to just 13% in 2023. 🛠️ Housing Strategy Moving Forward — Council is exploring tools like fee waivers, incentives, and tax credits to help projects “pencil,” acknowledging affordability will require long-term intervention — not just more supply. • International 5K Color Run — March 28 | Fort Collins• NOCO Fishing Expo — March 28 | Loveland• NoCo Easter Keg Hunt — March 28 | Avogadro’s Number• NCAA DI Men’s Ice Hockey Regionals — March 27–29 | Blue Arena📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions with both data and boots-on-the-ground insight.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at what’s happening across Fort Collins and Northern Colorado — from city policy and development to local business openings and community events.🌡️ Fort Collins Records Warmest Winter on RecordThe city just experienced its warmest meteorological winter (Dec–Feb) ever recorded, averaging 40.5°F, nearly four degrees warmer than the previous record set in 2000. Snowfall is also far below average, with only 12.1 inches so far compared to the typical 34.2 inches, though March and April historically can still bring major storms.🛫 Northern Colorado Regional Airport to Begin Charging for ParkingThe airport jointly owned by Fort Collins and Loveland will start charging for parking later this spring. Revenue will help fund operations, maintenance, and customer improvements as the airport continues to grow.🧸 Miniso Opens in Fort CollinsThe global lifestyle retailer known for TikTok-famous blind boxes, collectibles, and pop-culture merchandise has opened its first Northern Colorado location. The brand, founded in China in 2013, now has hundreds of locations worldwide and continues expanding across the U.S.🍸 Sugar Beet Saloon Opens at Jessup FarmA new western-style saloon is opening inside the historic 140-year-old barn at Jessup Farm Artisan Village, replacing the former Barrel House. The concept features house cocktails, local beer and wine, charcuterie boards, pretzels, and live patio music planned for summer.🏛️ Fort Collins City Council Sets 5 Major PrioritiesCity leaders adopted five priorities for the 2026–2028 policy cycle, including housing affordability, strengthening the local economy, improving communication with residents, advancing the Vision Zero safety plan, and ensuring long-term financial sustainability.✈️ NoCo Airport May Get a Physical Control TowerThe Northern Colorado Regional Airport may shift from its long-discussed virtual tower concept to building a traditional FAA-funded control tower, which could support long-term growth and increased flight operations.📍 Founded in FoCo – Startup WeekMarch 9–12 | Fort Collins Senior CenterEntrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders connecting across Northern Colorado.🍽️ Great Plates of Downtown™March 1–14 | Downtown Fort CollinsRestaurant specials benefiting the Food Bank for Larimer County.🏀 Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year TourMarch 11 | Blue Arena – LovelandLegendary basketball entertainment with dunks and trick shots.🍀 Blarney on the BlockMarch 14 | Downtown GreeleySt. Patrick’s celebration with music, food, drinks, and festivities.🏃 Sharin’ O’ the Green 5KMarch 14 | Odell Brewing CompanyFort Collins St. Patrick’s race and downtown block party.🍻 St. Patrick’s Party at Mythmaker BrewingMarch 14 | Fort CollinsGreen beers, Irish-themed specials, and food trucks.🎶 St. Paddy’s Festival – WellingtonMarch 14 | Centennial ParkIrish music, dancers, vendors, and family-friendly fun.📍 Thinking about buying, selling, or relocating to Northern Colorado?My team and I help clients navigate the Fort Collins market with data, strategy, and hyper-local insight.Patrick Soukup📞 970-893-3533📧 [email protected]🌐 soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your trusted source for clear, local insight into the Northern Colorado real estate market.In this March 2026 Market Update, we break down what buyers and sellers in Fort Collins need to understand as the spring market begins to accelerate.This month we cover:• Median home price trends with month-over-month and year-over-year context• Days on market and what it signals about buyer urgency• Inventory levels using months-of-supply framing• New listings vs. closed sales — and where momentum is building• Interest rate movement and how recent rate drops are impacting affordability and competitionAs we move into spring, the shift is noticeable. Lower interest rates are bringing more buyers off the sidelines, showings are increasing, and multiple-offer situations are beginning to return in select price points. While inventory is improving slightly, demand is picking up at a faster pace — especially in well-priced, move-in-ready homes.For sellers debating timing, this early spring momentum matters. For buyers, understanding how competition is changing — and where leverage still exists — is critical.As always, this update blends real data with what we’re actively experiencing in showings, negotiations, inspections, and contracts across Fort Collins and Northern Colorado.If you’re planning a move this year or simply trying to understand where the market is headed, this monthly update is designed to give you clarity and confidence.📲 Thinking about buying or selling in Fort Collins?If you want a clear, data-backed strategy tailored to your situation, let’s connect.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 [email protected]🌐 soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:🏫 PSD Authorizes Potential Teacher Layoffs — The Poudre School District board voted 7–0 to authorize possible layoffs amid a projected $17M budget shortfall for 2026–27, driven by enrollment declines and potential state funding cuts. Leaders say layoffs are not guaranteed, with retirements and resignations potentially offsetting reductions. 🗳️ Greeley’s $1.1B Catalyst Project in Limbo — Voters narrowly backed repealing zoning for the Cascadia/Catalyst entertainment district, throwing the arena-centered public-private project into uncertainty and likely delaying development at least a year. 🏘️ Fort Collins Expands Mobile Home Park Oversight — A new licensing program beginning in 2027 will require inspections, certified managers, and infrastructure disclosures, while prohibiting owners from passing compliance costs onto residents. 🍜 Three Dragon Thai Opens on South College — A new family-run Thai restaurant replaces Taco Stop at 6324 S. College Ave., serving Thai staples, sushi, and ramen in a bamboo-inspired setting. ⛽ QuikTrip Proposal Sparks Midtown Debate — Plans for a 6,500-sq-ft gas station at Drake & College face pushback from residents who prefer mixed-use redevelopment, though the project qualifies under older zoning rules. 🚗 I-25 Express Lane Tolling Begins April 7 — After a free period since 2023, drivers will soon pay between $1 and ~$4.75 depending on time and segment, with dynamic pricing launching later this summer. 📷 Flock Safety Cameras — Council reviewed installing 15 city-owned license plate reader cameras with 30-day data retention and third-party oversight. While staff highlighted public safety tools, several members voiced concerns about surveillance scope, data security, and past PR controversies. 🔊 “Sounds of the City” Noise Ordinance Update — Officials are refining quiet zones and decibel standards, aiming to protect neighborhood quality of life while preserving downtown vibrancy and business activity. 🚧 College Avenue Infrastructure Project — Early plans call for major water main replacement and streetscape upgrades from Laporte to Olive, with construction potentially beginning January 2027 as part of long-term corridor investment. • Great Plates of Downtown — Mar 1–14• 19th Annual Seed Swap — March 7• First Friday Art Walk — March 6• Mexican Street Food Cooking Class — March 7• Foothills Winter Farmers Market — Saturdays• CSU Spring Concert — March 8• 2026 Home & Garden Show — March 6–8📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions with both data and boots-on-the-ground insight.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to a special edition of Living in Fort Collins.In this deep dive conversation, I sat down with Curt Baer, former Mayor Jenni Arndt, and fellow Realtor Greg Roeder to have a real, unscripted discussion about Fort Collins — where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re heading.We cover:• The evolving identity of Fort Collins• Colorado State University’s role in shaping the city• Growth, development, and housing pressure• Local politics and civic decision-making• Infrastructure, business climate, and long-term planning• What makes Fort Collins different from other Colorado cities• And the tension between preserving culture and embracing growthThis is not a surface-level conversation. It’s a thoughtful discussion about the forces shaping Northern Colorado — from leadership decisions to market realities.If you’re considering moving to Fort Collins, investing here, or simply trying to better understand the direction of our city, this episode will give you context you won’t get from headlines alone.Fort Collins is at an inflection point. The decisions being made today will shape affordability, opportunity, culture, and quality of life for decades.If this conversation raised questions about where the market is heading — or how local politics and CSU impact housing values — I’d love to talk.My team and I specialize in helping intentional buyers, sellers, and investors navigate Northern Colorado with clarity and strategy.📍 Thinking About Buying or Selling in Fort Collins?📲 Reach out directly:Patrick Soukup(970)[email protected]

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:🗳️ Greeley Voters Decide $1.1B Cascadia/Catalyst Project — Ballot Issue 1A could repeal zoning for a massive entertainment district anchored by a new Colorado Eagles arena, hotel, and water park. Supporters cite taxpayer risk, while opponents warn of economic fallout and stalled development. 🥇 Fort Collins’ Hunter Powell at the 2026 Olympics — The CSU grad helped Team USA finish 11th in four-man bobsled in Cortina, posting top-three start times in every run. 🛍️ IKEA Coming to Fort Collins (Fall 2026) — A 64,000-sq-ft small-format IKEA will open at Front Range Village, bringing planning services, ~3,200 items, Swedish meatballs, and regional shopper draw. 🛒 Loveland Considers Costco Deal — City Council weighs a tax-rebate agreement that could bring a 160,000-sq-ft Costco warehouse and a 400,000-sq-ft retail center to Centerra, potentially opening around 2028. 🍸 Oso Underground Planned for Former Jay’s Bistro — A new elevated bar-restaurant concept with global dishes, live music, and molecular mixology is targeting a late-spring opening in Old Town. 🔬 CSU’s Little Shop of Physics Returns — More than 300 free hands-on science experiments will fill the Lory Student Center on March 1. 🚀 Ursa Major Promotes New CEO — The Berthoud-based rocket propulsion company names Chris Spagnoletti as CEO amid rapid growth and major defense contracts. Council advanced a new Mobile Home Park Licensing Program requiring annual licensing, infrastructure disclosures, manager certification, and clearer enforcement authority. The ordinance passed first reading 7–0, with support but concern over potential rent impacts to residents. • Great Plates of Downtown — Mar 1–14 | Old Town• Fort Collins Winter Brewfest — Feb 28 | Drake Centre• Rocky Mountain Raptor Program Gala — Feb 28 | CSU• The Ten Tenors — Feb 27 | Lincoln Center• Donut Making Class — Feb 28 | Ginger & Baker• Daddy Daughter Dance — Feb 27 | Windsor• HUNKS The Show — Feb 27 | Loveland• Colorado Eagles vs. Bakersfield — Feb 24–25 | Blue Arena📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions with both data and boots-on-the-ground insight.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:📚 Fort Collins’ First Romance Bookstore Opens — Cherry on Top Bookshop debuts in Old Town at 119 E. Mountain Ave., featuring romance novels across multiple subgenres, a kids section, gifts, a photo booth, and event space. 🏗️ Four Projects Reshaping Old Town’s Skyline — Major developments include expansion of The Armory at the former Lyric site, “The Linden” River District apartments (160 units, 20% affordable), renovation of three vacant Linden storefronts, and redevelopment of the long-empty William S. Hill Building on Mountain Avenue. 🍕 Postcard Pizza Makes USA TODAY’s Top 39 Restaurants — The Detroit-style pizzeria inside Equinox Brewing earns national recognition for its globally inspired, crispy-edged pies like the popular Fancy Pepperoni. 🏢 Larimer County Extends Data Center Moratorium — Commissioners approve a six-month pause on new data center proposals in unincorporated areas to study energy use, water impacts, noise concerns, and regulatory frameworks. 🥕 Food Co-op Reopens in Former Beavers Market — The Fort Collins Food Co-op reopens Feb. 14 at 1100 W. Mountain Ave., doubling its footprint with expanded meat, produce, bulk goods, and eventual beer/wine offerings. 🎱 CooperSmith’s Billiards Returning — The former Poolside space is being revived with tournament pool tables, darts, shuffleboard, 20 beers on tap, and classic bar food, targeting a March reopening. 🏫 PSD Considers Possible Teacher Layoffs — Due to enrollment declines and potential funding cuts, PSD may initiate a formal reduction-in-force process to address a projected budget shortfall of up to $17 million. 🏟️ $110M Investment at The Ranch — Larimer County moves forward with a 21-acre turf Event Lawn, future amphitheater, youth sports upgrades, and potential hotel/expo center expansions funded by a voter-approved sales tax extension. 🐾 CSU’s $230M Veterinary Hospital Nearing Completion — The new 213,000-sq-ft Veterinary Hospital and Education Complex will expand animal care capacity and increase veterinary student enrollment. 🛒 Loveland Eyes Business-Assistance Pact for New Costco — A proposed agreement could bring a Costco-anchored development to Centerra, generating significant infrastructure investment and long-term city revenue. After being sworn in January 13, 2026, City Council narrowed its agenda to five priorities:1️⃣ Financial Sustainability2️⃣ Stronger Communication3️⃣ Make It Easier to Build4️⃣ Economic Vitality5️⃣ Vision ZeroAdditional focus areas include AI integration, marijuana law updates, and strengthening the creative/nighttime economy — with housing affordability woven throughout nearly every priority. • Fiesta Familiar de Lotería — Feb 21 | Old Town Library• Farm to Fork Fundraiser — Feb 20 | PSD• Fat Friday — Feb 20 | The Lyric• Pandamonium! 2026 — Feb 21–22 | Horse & Dragon Brewing• Fort Collins Foodie Walk — Feb 20 | Downtown📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions with both data and boots-on-the-ground insight.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:🥫 Wellington Food Pantry Expands — The Wellington Food Pantry moves into a temporary new location at Eyestone South and expands service to three days per week, increasing access ahead of the planned Community Services Center opening in 2026. 💸 Colorado Now Accepting Tax Returns — TABOR refunds are back for the 2025 tax year, with most filers receiving modest refunds based on income tiers. Officials do not expect TABOR refunds for the 2026 tax year, making this potentially the last refund cycle for a while. 🏚️ Budget Host Inn to Be Demolished — Fort Collins’ Urban Renewal Authority will demolish the blighted Budget Host Inn on North College Avenue after extensive asbestos and meth abatement, clearing another long-problematic property for future redevelopment. 🏨 What’s Next for the El Palomino Motel — The URA is under contract to purchase the El Palomino Motel nearby, continuing its strategy of acquiring and redeveloping nuisance properties along North College into more productive uses. 🏈 Klint Kubiak Named Raiders Head Coach — Fresh off a Super Bowl win with Seattle, former CSU captain Klint Kubiak becomes head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, capping a remarkable rise and adding another CSU success story to the national spotlight. 🍽️ Best Romantic Restaurants in Fort Collins — A Valentine’s-ready roundup highlights nine local date-night favorites across Old Town, Midtown, and nearby Loveland, ranging from French bistros to rooftop lounges and ramen spots. 🏛️ City Council Sets 5 Priorities — After its January retreat, Fort Collins City Council identifies five core priorities, led by making it easier to build. Other focus areas include financial sustainability, economic vitality, better communication with residents, and Vision Zero street safety goals. • Colorado Mountain Club New Member Meeting — Feb 11 | Fort Collins• Ram Talks (Valentine’s Edition) — Feb 11 | Old Town Square• Winter Bike to Work Day — Feb 13 | Fort Collins• Loveland Sweetheart Festival — Feb 14 | Downtown Loveland• Little Miss Valentine & Little Mr. Cupid Contest — Feb 14 | Loveland• OtterBox x Walrus Ice Cream BYOB — Feb 14–15 | Old Town• Love on Ice Polar Plunge — Feb 14 | Riverside Colorado📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions with both data and boots-on-the-ground insight.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your trusted source for clear, local insight into the Northern Colorado real estate market.In this February 2026 Market Update, we break down what buyers and sellers in Fort Collins actually need to know right now, including:• Median home price trends with month-over-month and year-over-year context• Days on market and what it signals about buyer urgency• Inventory levels using months-of-supply framing• New listings vs. closed sales — and where momentum is shifting• Interest rate movement and how it’s impacting affordability and negotiation powerBeyond the data, we also talk through what we’re seeing on the ground — the overall market feel, buyer and seller behavior, and real situations we’re navigating in showings, inspections, negotiations, and contracts across Fort Collins.This update is designed for local move-up and move-down buyers, as well as homeowners debating whether now is the right time to sell. No hype. No national headlines. Just what’s actually happening here.Whether you’re actively planning a move or simply staying informed, this monthly update gives you the clarity needed to make smart real estate decisions in Fort Collins.📲 Thinking about buying or selling in Fort Collins?If you want a clear, data-backed strategy tailored to your situation, let’s connect.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 [email protected]🌐 soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:🏬 Vacant Albertsons May Get New Life — The Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority is proposing a temporary community event space at the long-blighted Albertsons site on North College. Plans include murals, food trucks, vendor tents, seating, string lights, and a small stage, activating the site for 2–3 years while permanent redevelopment plans are finalized. ✈️ Airport Runway Closure Rethink — Northern Colorado Regional Airport leaders are reconsidering a planned 161-day runway shutdown tied to an $18M widening project after business and pilot concerns. Alternatives include a shorter closure or temporary landing strip as the airport transitions to a new regional authority. 🏗️ Larimer County Pauses Data Centers — County officials approved a temporary moratorium on new data center applications while standards are developed to address electricity, water usage, and long-term infrastructure impacts. State lawmakers are also weighing legislation around transparency and energy efficiency. 🥕 Food Co-op Prepares to Move — The Fort Collins Food Co-op closed its longtime Old Town location ahead of reopening in early to mid-February at the former Beavers Market building on West Mountain Avenue, more than doubling its footprint and adding parking, expanded departments, and beer/wine sales pending licensing. 🚌 West Elizabeth Transit Project Paused — Fort Collins’ Bus Rapid Transit station and roundabout project is on hold after the cancellation of a $10.7M federal grant, leaving the nearly decade-long project without a clear construction timeline. 🚗 Free Parking Expansion at NoCo Airport — Landline opens a new 700-space fenced parking lot at the Northern Colorado Regional Airport, offering free parking for up to three weeks for travelers heading to DIA, with future plans for a covered heated shelter. 🎓 PSD Graduation Rates Hit 15-Year High — Poudre School District’s graduation rate climbed to 89% for 2024–25, its highest level in 15 years, though it still trails neighboring Thompson and Weld RE-4 districts, which reported even higher results. • WomenGive 20th Anniversary Luncheon — Feb 5 | Loveland• CSU Black History Month Short Films — Feb 4 | Fort Collins• Live Ice Carving in Old Town Square — Feb 6–7• First Friday Art Walk — Feb 6 | Old Town• Visit Fort Collins Valentine’s Market — Feb 7• Recreation Summer Camp Registration Day — Feb 5• Love & Local Market — Feb 7 | Loveland📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions with both data and boots-on-the-ground insight.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:🚆 Train Strikes Vehicle in Old Town — A train hit an unoccupied car on the tracks near Old Town Fort Collins on Jan. 20, shutting down key intersections along North College, North Mason, Cherry Street, and Vine Drive for several hours before traffic fully cleared. No injuries were reported. 🐾 Horsetooth Mountain Lion Closure — Horsetooth Mountain Open Space temporarily closed trailheads after a hiker reported an aggressive mountain lion encounter. Officials note winter conditions push lions to lower elevations, increasing sightings this time of year. 🎣 Bass Pro Shops Loveland Nears Opening — Bass Pro is hiring roughly 180 employees ahead of its first Northern Colorado location near I-25 and Crossroads Blvd. The 129,000-sq-ft store is expected to open in 2026, with a hiring event scheduled Feb. 3–4. 🎓 Bill Would Force CSU to Follow City Codes — State Sen. Cathy Kipp plans legislation requiring CSU to comply with local sign and noise ordinances when impacts extend off campus, a move sparked by neighborhood complaints and debated concerns over state-land authority and economic impact. 🎶 Old Lyric Site Finally Redeveloping — Construction is underway at 300 E. Mountain Ave. on a two-story mixed-use expansion tied to the Armory music venue, reviving a long-vacant Old Town lot once home to the Lyric theater. ✈️ 7 New DIA Routes Announced for 2026 — Denver International Airport adds nonstop flights to destinations including Santa Rosa, Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Chattanooga, Bangor, and more beginning spring through summer 2026. • Quarter-cent Capital Improvement Sales Tax formally appropriated for 2026–2035, continuing voter-approved transportation projects• Early allocations signal priorities for affordable housing capital and a community bike park• Work session focused on long-term Fort Collins MSA trends ahead of Council’s strategic retreat• Net migration into the Fort Collins MSA is down 26% from pre-2020 levels• Greeley projected to surpass Fort Collins in population by 2026, with a potential 100,000-person gap by 2050• Housing affordability pressures now show Fort Collins rents and prices exceeding Denver in recent data• Slower growth raises questions around school enrollment, workforce sustainability, city revenues, and infrastructure planning 📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions with both data and boots-on-the-ground insight.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:⛽ Gas Contamination Impacts Local Stations — At least two Fort Collins–area gas stations may have sold unleaded gasoline contaminated with diesel following a fuel transport error at the HF Sinclair terminal. Safeway at Drake & Taft Hill shut down pumps and advised customers to file claims, while reports suggest Costco Timnath may also have been affected. 🏛️ Fort Collins Seats New Mayor & City Council — Emily Francis is officially sworn in as mayor alongside new council members representing Districts 1, 3, and 5. Julie Pignataro was unanimously selected as mayor pro-tem, marking the beginning of a new council term and leadership direction for the city. ⛽ Costco Timnath Fuel Center Expansion Proposed — Costco plans to double its fueling positions from 16 to 32, extend the canopy, and improve traffic flow to reduce long wait times. If approved, construction is expected to be completed in 2026. 🏗️ Work Underway on Mountain Ave’s “Missing Tooth” — Redevelopment has begun at 160 W. Mountain Ave., transforming the long-vacant William S. Hill Building into a mixed-use project with retail, office space, and a full-service restaurant, targeted for completion by the end of 2026. 🧋 The Exchange Sees Major Turnover & New Tenants — Tadpoles Boba, Henao Wellness, Thai Street Bowls, and an expanded Yellow Crunch are among the new additions reshaping The Exchange plaza heading into 2026. 🌾 Colorado Farm Show Returns Jan. 27–29 — One of Northern Colorado’s longest-running events highlights agriculture, innovation, and student scholarships at Island Grove Regional Park in Greeley. 🛒 Aldi Expands in Colorado — But Not Fort Collins (Yet) — Aldi announced plans for 50+ new Colorado stores, though Fort Collins was not included. A previously speculated South College site is now confirmed for Natural Grocers. 🐺 Colorado Expands Range Rider Program — CPW hopes to double its range rider program in 2026 to reduce wolf–livestock conflicts, though staffing challenges and funding needs remain a concern after a mixed first year. 🏫 School Enrollment Declines Continue Statewide — Colorado public schools saw a fourth straight year of enrollment losses. Poudre School District alone lost more than 500 students, raising funding and long-term planning challenges. • Winter 2026 Putters & Pints Mini Golf League — Jan 21 | Old Town Putt• Winter 2026 Bar Games League — Jan 22 | Old Town Putt• Northern Colorado Home Show — Jan 23–25 | Blue Arena, Loveland• Polar Bear Plunge — Jan 24 | Horsetooth Reservoir• Pickleball Learn & Play Fundraiser — Jan 24 | The Picklr Fort Collins• Downtown Loveland Mac N’ Cheese Melt Off — Jan 22• Preschool, Summer Camp & Kids Activities Fair — Jan 24 | Fort Collins Senior Center📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions with both data and boots-on-the-ground insight.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:🐺 Colorado Wolf Program Costs Spike — Ranchers submitted more than $1 million in wolf depredation claims in 2025, nearly triple the state’s annual budget, raising questions about long-term sustainability and support for the wolf reintroduction program. 🏫 PSD Enrollment Drops Again — Poudre School District lost nearly 500 students this year, continuing a multi-year decline that could put more than $10 million in future funding at risk, potentially reopening conversations around school consolidations or boundary changes. 🌯 Best Breakfast Burritos in Fort Collins — From longtime staples to hidden gems, local spots like Consuelo’s Express, Cafe Mexicali, Almansita’s, and more make Fort Collins a breakfast burrito destination. 🥤 Colorado SNAP Beverage Restrictions Coming — Starting March 1, SNAP benefits will no longer cover sweetened beverages such as soda, energy drinks, and sweetened teas, while still allowing water, milk, and drinks with at least 50% real juice. 🛍️ Arc Thrift Expands in Midtown — Arc Thrift Stores will expand into the former Joann Fabrics space, adding 10,000 square feet and increasing employment opportunities, with completion expected in 2026. 🍔 In-N-Out Breaks Ground in Timnath — Construction is officially underway on Timnath’s In-N-Out Burger, with a likely opening later this year, marking Northern Colorado’s second location. 🍽️ New Old Town Restaurant Planned — A long-vacant historic building at 160 W. Mountain Ave. will become a mixed-use destination anchored by a new restaurant, with completion expected by the end of 2026. 🏛️ 15 Apply for Open City Council Seat — Fifteen candidates are vying to fill the District 6 seat vacated by Mayor-elect Emily Francis, with interviews and appointment scheduled for mid-January. 💰 TABOR Refunds: Yes for 2026, Likely No for 2027 — Coloradans can expect modest TABOR refunds when filing 2025 taxes in spring 2026, but refunds are unlikely the following year due to projected revenue shortfalls. • First Singles Social of 2026 — Union Bar & Soda Fountain (Jan 13)• Poudre River Friends of the Library HUGE Winter Used Book Sale (Jan 15–16)• FREE Bar Games Tournament — Old Town Putt (Jan 15)• Fort Collins Foodie Walk — Downtown (Jan 16)• Crafts for Creatures Benefit — Midpoint Dr. (Jan 17)• 3rd Sundays at 830 North — Live music & bowling (Jan 18)📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions with both data and boots-on-the-ground insight.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

January 2026 Fort Collins Real Estate Market Update + 2026 PredictionsWelcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your trusted source for real, local insight into the Northern Colorado real estate market.In this January 2026 Market Update & Outlook, we break down the key trends buyers, sellers, and investors need to know as we kick off the new year, including:• Current Median Home Price in Fort Collins• Median Days on Market• Active Inventory & New Listings• Interest Rate Movement & Affordability Trends• Buyer & Seller Activity Levels• What We’re Seeing on the Ground — negotiations, concessions, multiple offers, and pricing behavior in real timeWe’ll also share our predictions for the 2026 housing market — including expectations around inventory, demand, appreciation, interest rate shifts, and how the Northern Colorado market may compare to the national trend.This update is based not just on data, but on what we’re actively experiencing day-to-day in showings, contracts, inspections, appraisals, and conversations with buyers and sellers across Fort Collins and Northern Colorado.Whether you’re planning a move this year, investing, or simply staying informed, this monthly update will give you a clear, honest snapshot of where the market stands — and where it may be headed.📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, data-backed real estate decisions across Fort Collins and beyond.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

🎥 FoCo in 15 Minutes | I-25 Toll Delay, Major Developments, Severe Flu Season & Wolf Management DebateWelcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:🚗 North I-25 Tolling Delayed Again — Drivers will continue using the express lanes between Fort Collins and Berthoud for free until early 2026 as CDOT works through technology and testing delays. Tolling will begin with time-of-day pricing and move to dynamic pricing by summer 2026. 🏗️ Big Developments to Watch in 2026 — From boutique hotels and Old Town retail upgrades to CSU-area student housing, Ladera expansion in Timnath, and Amazon’s planned robotics fulfillment center in Loveland, the region is gearing up for a major year of construction and job growth. 🤒 Flu Season Surges Across Colorado — Flu hospitalizations are already surpassing last year’s peak, prompting renewed masking in some health systems and tighter visitor restrictions as hospitals emphasize prevention and vaccination. 🐺 Federal Government Threatens Wolf Management Takeover — U.S. Fish & Wildlife officials warn Colorado they may assume control of the state’s wolf reintroduction program unless reporting and compliance standards are met within 60 days. 🚲 Fort Collins Expands Bike & Mobility Registration — The new Bike Index system lets residents register bikes, scooters, skateboards, strollers, mobility devices, and more — improving recovery rates for lost or stolen property. 🐈 Suspected Fatal Mountain Lion Incident Under Investigation — A woman was found deceased near Crosier Mountain on Jan. 1 following a reported mountain lion encounter. CPW euthanized two lions in the area pending necropsy results, noting such attacks are extremely rare. 💧 Windsor Utility Rates Increasing — Water, sewer, and stormwater rates will rise beginning Feb. 1 to fund major infrastructure replacement projects, increasing a typical monthly household bill by about 26%. ❄️ Wholesale Marijuana Prices Hit Record Low — Average wholesale pricing drops to $648 per pound statewide, the lowest since tracking began. ⛷️ Nederland Considers $120M Purchase of Eldora Resort — The town is moving forward on an agreement to locally own and operate the mountain through a special enterprise funded by resort revenue rather than local taxes. • Breck Brew FoCo NFL Playoff Bracket Challenge — Jan 6• Ginger & Baker Book Club — Jan 6• FoCo Fondo Film Fest — Jan 8• Recreator Spring Sign-up Day — Jan 8• Colorado Eagles at Blue Arena — Jan 9–10• College Day at Old Town Putt — Thursdays• Paint a Pint — Jan 11📩 Subscribe to the Northern Colorado Insider NewsletterGet weekly local updates, housing insights, and community highlights curated for Northern Colorado residents and newcomers alike.📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions across Fort Collins and all of NoCo.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:🏥 Columbine Health Systems Sells Five Facilities — More than $62M in skilled nursing and assisted living properties in Fort Collins and Windsor change hands as Legacy Health Care–linked LLCs acquire the sites. Daily services and staffing continue uninterrupted under Cottonwood Healthcare management, while Columbine retains ownership of its independent living communities. 📚 Barnes & Noble Plans New Colorado Store in 2026 — The bookseller continues its national expansion strategy, confirming at least one new store for Colorado following two openings in 2025 — with location details still to come. 🏛️ City & County Approve Downtown Land Swap — Fort Collins will transfer seven downtown parcels near the justice center to Larimer County while receiving nearly 9 acres on East Vine Drive for transit maintenance, parks, and storage uses — along with nearly $1M in value offset. Transfers will occur by the end of 2028. 💼 City Executive Salaries Set for 2026 — The City Manager and City Attorney receive modest 2% raises aligned with citywide increases, while the Chief Judge’s salary remains unchanged heading into 2026. 📈 Greeley Metro Area Poised to Surpass Fort Collins Metro Area in 2026 — Weld County’s faster population growth — fueled by lower housing costs and available land — could edge its metro total above Larimer County next year, even as the City of Fort Collins remains larger than Greeley itself. 🅿️ Paid Downtown Parking Plan Advances — Fort Collins continues evaluating a phased rollout of paid on-street parking to increase turnover, stabilize parking revenue, and encourage garage use — though local debate remains strong. 🌲 Winter Break Family Fun — From Garden of Lights and public skating at EPIC to museum visits and library activities, Fort Collins families have plenty of local options while PSD schools are out Dec. 22–Jan. 6. 🥩 Food Co-op Moving Into Former Beavers Market — The Fort Collins Food Co-op will relocate in early 2026 to a much larger space on West Mountain Ave., adding deli, butcher, bulk goods, and on-site parking. ⚡ Colorado Ranks #1 for Lowest Utility Burden — A Move.org report finds residents spend just 6.4% of median income on utilities — the lowest share in the nation — at an average of $568/month across eight utility categories. • Resolution Run 5K — Dec. 31 | EPIC• New Year’s Day Hangover Games — Jan. 1 | Old Town Putt• Riverside Renewal Cold Plunge — Jan. 1 | Poudre Canyon• Lego Build Club — Jan. 2 | Old Town Library• AMA Arenacross Championship — Jan. 3 | Blue Arena (Loveland) 📩 Subscribe to the Northern Colorado Insider NewsletterGet weekly local updates, housing insights, and community highlights curated for Northern Colorado residents and newcomers alike.📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions across Fort Collins and all of NoCo.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com🎆 Things To Do This Week & New Year’s Events

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins & Northern Colorado:🏥 Hospital Safety Ratings Controversy — A new Leapfrog Group report sparked debate after grading Colorado hospitals on patient safety, with UCHealth pushing back on methodology while Leapfrog defended its data sources and transparency. 🚗 Holiday Parking Rules Explained — We break down what’s legal (and not) when it comes to parking in front of someone else’s house in Colorado, including when cars can be towed and what to do if yours disappears. 🔥 Fire Forces School Closure in Wellington — Smoke damage from a wood-shop fire temporarily closed Wellington Middle–High School, pushing students to one day of remote learning while cleanup crews worked onsite. 🌬️ High Winds Shut Down Highways — Dangerous wind gusts knocked over semis and briefly closed U.S. 287 and northbound I-25 north of Fort Collins, disrupting regional travel. ⚡ Power Outages in NoCo — More than 5,000 customers lost power across Livermore, Red Feather Lakes, Bellvue, and surrounding areas following a transmission-line failure during high-wind conditions. ☕ New Coffee Pop-Up at Foothills Mall — Mi Cultura Coffee brings culture-driven drinks like café de olla and house-made horchata to the former Lima Coffee kiosk, with strong community support and a possible long-term future. 🍽️ Restaurant Updates — Black-eyed Pea works toward a January reopening pending liquor licensing, while Three Dragon Thai prepares to open on South College with an expansive Thai and sushi menu. 🏘️ Housing Values Cooling in Colorado — Zillow data shows average home values dipping statewide, with Fort Collins among cities seeing price softening in 2025 after years of rapid appreciation. 🎓 CSU Football Recruiting Update — Colorado State’s first signing class under Jim Mora ranks mid-Pac-12 nationally, marking one of CSU’s stronger recruiting years in recent memory. 🏫 PSD Approves Later School Start — The Poudre School District officially approves a later August start for the 2026–27 school year to reduce heat exposure in schools without air conditioning. 🏗️ Forge Campus Wins Statewide Award — Loveland’s Forge Campus earns “Company of the Year” honors for transforming a former HP facility into a thriving innovation and manufacturing hub. • Housing Catalyst’s role, scale, and economic impact across Fort Collins and Larimer County• Downtown Parking Optimization Study and potential paid on-street parking model• Parks & Recreation 2050 Tax implementation update• City Council End-of-Term accomplishments and priorities• Wellington Lights Holiday Event (Dec. 19)• Ugly Sweater Party at Mugs Old Town (Dec. 20)• Visit Santa’s Reindeer at Bath Garden Center (Dec. 20)• Garden of Lights at Gardens on Spring Creek• NoCo Winter Wonderland (drive-through lights)• Fort Collins Foodie Walk (Dec. 19)📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?I help clients make informed, strategic real estate decisions with both data and boots-on-the-ground experience across Fort Collins and NoCo.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins:🏈 Local Signing Day Win — Poudre High School standout Pierce Decker officially signs with the University of Wyoming as a Class of 2026 offensive lineman, continuing a strong year for Fort Collins-area football recruits. 🅿️ Parking Services Moving — Fort Collins Parking Services relocates from 215 N. Mason to 114 N. Mason, temporarily closing during the move with new drop-box access and short-term parking available at the Civic Center Garage. 🌕 Last Supermoon of 2025 — Stargazers get a final supermoon before the Geminid Meteor Shower peaks on Dec. 13–14, offering ideal winter sky viewing conditions. 📱 Tech-Healthy Home Workshop — Weld RE-4 hosts a parent workshop on balanced technology use at Windsor High School, covering screen-time habits, tech addiction, and family strategies. 🚗 Winter “Puffing” Is Illegal — Leaving your car running unattended violates Fort Collins city code and Colorado law, carrying fines and increased theft risk. 🚧 Power Trail Underpass Construction Begins — The long-awaited Harmony Road underpass project officially breaks ground, closing a major trail gap and enhancing safety after a 2023 bicyclist fatality. 🤝 Colorado Gives Day – Dec. 9 — The statewide giving event supports thousands of Colorado nonprofits with matching incentives and prize funding through ColoradoGivesDay.org. • Final adoption of zoning changes for commercial corridors & mixed-use development• Approval of the Harmony Corridor Plan updates• Adoption of Fort Collins’ share of the 2026 Airport Budget• Residential waste rate flexibility approved• Changes to Snow & Ice enforcement and Weed & Grass height standards• District 6 Council vacancy process formally established with application timeline• Santa Catch 5K & 10K – Windsor• Santa Photos at Foothills Mall• All-Choral Holiday Concert• Holiday Celebration at Jessup Farm• Gardens on Spring Creek – Garden of Lights• Winter Farmers Market – Foothills Mall• Jolly Trolley on Mountain Avenue• Colorado Eagles vs. Ontario Reign• Weekly Karaoke, Trivia, Bingo & Comedy• Brewery Tours, Morning Fresh Dairy, & Ghost Tours• Live performances at CSU’s University Center for the Arts📩 Subscribe to the Northern Colorado Insider NewsletterGet weekly local updates, housing insights, and community highlights curated for Northern Colorado residents and newcomers alike.📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, well-informed real estate decisions across Fort Collins and all of NoCo.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

In this December 2025 Market Update, we break down the most important trends buyers, sellers, and investors need to know right now, including:• Median Home Price in Fort Collins• Median Days on Market• Current Inventory Levels• Interest Rate Trends• Buyer & Seller Activity• What We’re Seeing on the Ground — negotiations, concessions, multiple offers, and real-time market behaviorThis update is based not just on data, but on what we’re actively experiencing in homes, showings, inspections, appraisals, and contracts throughout Fort Collins and Northern Colorado.Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, investing, or just staying informed, this monthly update gives you a clear, honest snapshot of where the market actually stands.📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make confident, data-backed real estate decisions across Fort Collins and beyond.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Welcome to Fort Collins Lifestyles, your weekly insider look at life, real estate, and community across Northern Colorado.This week in Fort Collins:🥧 Pie Shop + Auto Repair Concept at Lloyd’s Service — A longtime Fort Collins service station at 500 Garfield St. may soon become a unique combination of pie shop and auto repair garage, blending community space, outdoor seating, and vehicle services pending city approval and financing. 🏫 Later Start Possible for PSD Schools — Poudre School District is considering a later start for the 2026–27 school year to reduce student exposure to late-summer heat as air conditioning is gradually installed across schools through 2043. 🌲 Colorado Parks & Wildlife Leadership Change — CPW Director Jeff Davis has stepped down and will move into a senior policy role with the Department of Natural Resources, with retired Maj. Gen. Laura Clellan stepping in as acting director. 🚲 Bikes for Tykes Drive Needs Help — Realities for Children is short more than 150 bikes for its annual holiday drive, especially larger youth bike sizes, with donations still being accepted locally. 💵 Colorado Minimum Wage Increasing in 2026 — The state’s minimum wage will rise to $15.16/hour on January 1, 2026, with the tipped wage increasing to $12.14/hour. 🚴 Siphon Overpass Opening Dec. 5 — A major new trail connection in southeast Fort Collins will reopen with the Siphon Overpass bridging the Mail Creek Trail and Power Trail, restoring a critical non-vehicular route across the railroad corridor. 📩 Subscribe to the Northern Colorado Insider NewsletterGet weekly local updates, real estate insights, and community highlights delivered straight to your inbox.📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make smart, confident real estate decisions across Fort Collins and the surrounding communities.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

This week in Fort Collins:🟢 Yardwaste Pickup Ending for the Season — Republic Services pauses green-bin pickup after the week of Nov. 24 through March 30, 2026. Drop-off sites and winter bag pickups remain available. 🏘️ City Dedicates $5M to Affordable Housing — Fort Collins redirects unspent Community Capital Improvement Program funds toward affordable housing, with voters renewing the tax for another decade. Advocates warn the city still faces a $30–$40M annual gap to meet 2040 goals. 🌧️ Still No First Snow in Fort Collins — A moisture-packed system brings rain and cooler temps Nov. 20–22, but still no measurable snow—now 214 days and counting, approaching the latest snowfall record of Dec. 13. Higher elevations will see 1–6 inches. 🎄 NightLights Returns Dec. 1 — The 28th Annual NightLights Tree Lighting at Realities for Children brings live entertainment, treats, reindeer, and a 50-foot blue LED tree supporting at-risk youth. 💧 NISP Water Project Set to Break Ground in 2026 — The massive Northern Integrated Supply Project is now projected at $2.7B, with Glade Reservoir construction expected to begin in 2026 and water capture by 2031. Several communities signal they may withdraw due to rising costs. 🏡 2026 Real Estate Outlook — NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun predicts sluggish 2025 but a strong rebound in 2026 if mortgage rates fall toward 6%, with concerns lingering around commercial office space and rising consumer delinquencies. 📩 Subscribe to the Northern Colorado Insider NewsletterGet weekly local updates, housing insights, and event highlights — curated for Northern Colorado residents and anyone considering a move here.📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make smart real estate moves in Fort Collins and throughout NoCo.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]💻 Schedule: calendly.com/soukuprealestateservices/30min🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

This week in Fort Collins:🥧 Best Pie in Fort Collins? — The Coloradoan launches its first-ever Northern Colorado Pie Bracket, letting readers vote for the region’s top bakery just in time for Thanksgiving. Eight contenders are in the running, with room for write-ins and returning favorites.🏬 Vacant Fort Collins Properties Update — From former Joann Fabrics locations to the empty Macy’s at Foothills, several major commercial sites show early signs of new tenants and redevelopment—even as some remain stalled.🌲 30 Years of Open Space Conservation — Larimer County celebrates three decades of the HPOS tax, which has helped protect over 64,000 acres and build more than 100 miles of trails. The new “30 and Thriving” campaign highlights stories, history, and resident involvement.🎄 Wellington Lights Returns — Wellington kicks off its holiday celebration series with lighting ceremonies, parades, late-night shopping, Santa visits, festive challenges, and community events running through mid-December.🏓 Two Massive Pickleball Facilities Open — Fort Collins welcomes Zero Zero Two Pickleball Club and The Picklr—bringing over 20 new indoor/outdoor courts, championship-level play, and a national tournament to the city.🏛️ Greeley Elections Shape Cascadia Development — Most pro-Cascadia candidates win council seats, keeping support strong for the city’s major entertainment district and mixed-use project.🚧 Power Trail Underpass Construction Begins — Work is officially underway on the Harmony Crossing underpass, finally closing the long-missing trail gap between Golden Meadows Park and Keenland Drive and improving north–south connectivity for cyclists and pedestrians.📩 Subscribe to the Northern Colorado Insider NewsletterGet weekly local updates, housing insights, and event highlights — curated for Northern Colorado residents and anyone considering a move here.📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make smart real estate moves in Fort Collins and throughout NoCo.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]💻 Schedule: calendly.com/soukuprealestateservices/30min🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

This week in Fort Collins:🗳️ Election Results Are In! — Emily Francis is elected Mayor of Fort Collins, and challengers win all three City Council seats. Measures 2A and 2H pass, securing new capital improvement funding and redevelopment plans for the Hughes Stadium site.🏙️ Linden Street Makeover — Three long-vacant storefronts are being revitalized on Linden Street, set to bring new retail and restaurant spaces to Old Town by early 2026.🏠 Food Co-op Expands — The Fort Collins Food Co-op purchases the former Beavers Market building on West Mountain Avenue for $2.1 million, with plans for a larger store and deli.🥞 Doug’s Diner Reopening — After legal disputes and brief closures, the Fort Collins and Greeley Doug’s Diner locations are reopening under the original ownership.🏓 Pickleball + Retail Openings — The Picklr officially opens at Jessup Farm, Gordon Restaurant Market debuts at the former Bed Bath & Beyond site, and The Blue Moose Art Gallery expands into The Elizabeth Hotel.💧 City Council Highlights — Updates to Capital and Transportation Expansion Fees, Tree Policy revisions, and the approval of the 2026 City Budget totaling $843.3 million. Council also advanced a major amendment to the Montava Metro Districts’ service plan.🎖️ Things to Do This Week —• Veterans Day Breakfast (Nov. 11) at the Fort Collins Senior Center• Singles Social (Nov. 11) at Union Bar & Soda Fountain• Wolverine Farm 10-Year Anniversary Party & Art Fundraiser (Nov. 15)📩 Subscribe to the Northern Colorado Insider NewsletterGet weekly local updates, housing insights, and event highlights — all curated for Northern Colorado residents and newcomers alike.📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make smart real estate moves in Fort Collins and beyond.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]💻 Schedule: calendly.com/soukuprealestateservices/30min🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

Interest rates are coming down — but what does that mean for buyers, sellers, and investors as we move into the fall market? 🍂🏠In this month’s Fort Collins Market Update, we’re breaking down:✅ The Median Sales Price trends across Northern Colorado 💰✅ Inventory levels and what’s driving competition 🏡✅ The latest on interest rates and mortgage activity 📉✅ Our boots-on-the-ground analysis from active buyers and sellers in today’s market 🎯✅ And other market-moving data impacting Fort Collins and surrounding areas 🚀📲 Connect with Patrick SoukupWe have many people contacting us who are moving to Fort Collins — and we absolutely love it! If you’re thinking about relocating, investing, or selling in Northern Colorado, we can make that transition seamless.📲 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]💻 Schedule a Call: https://calendly.com/soukuprealestateservices/30min🌐 Website: www.soukuprealestate.com🗞 Join the Northern Colorado Insider NewsletterStay up to date on local market trends, events, and development news:👉 Subscribe Here: https://soukuprealestate.us9.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=25a4d7a240602bc91774e7fa2&id=80808a7ce9

This week in Fort Collins:🌳 Emerald Ash Borer Update — The tree-killing beetle continues to spread across the Front Range, now found in more than 20 cities including Fort Collins, Denver, and Golden.🏫 Top-Ranked PSD Schools — Thirteen elementary and ten middle schools in Poudre School District made U.S. News & World Report’s Top 200 list, including Zach Elementary and Liberty Common.🏞️ Hughes Land Ballot Question — Voters will decide the future of the former Hughes Stadium site, which could include a natural area, education and wildlife center, and a new city park with a bike park.🏘️ Colorado’s Oldest Town — Learn about San Luis, the state’s first permanent settlement, established in 1851 — before Colorado was even a territory.🧸 Toy, Game & Puzzle Library Expansion — The local favorite reopens in a new, larger space at Foothills Mall with a growing collection and on-site play area.✨ Things to Do This Weekend —• Downtown Holiday Lighting Ceremony (Nov. 7)• Raise a Helles to the Helpers at Breckenridge Brewery (Nov. 8)• Poudre FFA Fall Carnival (Nov. 8)📩 Subscribe to the Northern Colorado Insider NewsletterGet weekly local updates, housing insights, and event highlights — all curated for Northern Colorado residents and newcomers alike.📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make smart real estate moves in Fort Collins and beyond.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]💻 Schedule: calendly.com/soukuprealestateservices/30min🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com

This week in Fort Collins:✈️ Airport Shake-Up — Fort Collins & Loveland officially dissolve the Northern Colorado Regional Airport Commission to make way for a new regional airport authority.🏗️ New Development — A longtime College Avenue hotel is being transformed into The Buxton by Tribe Development Company.🥒 Pickleball Boom — Two massive indoor pickleball complexes are opening this November, including The Picklr at Jessup Farm and Zero Zero Two near Innovation Drive.🗳️ Election Season — Larimer County voter centers are open now through Election Day, November 4th.💧 Water & Trails — Northern Water begins testing at Chimney Hollow Reservoir, and Windsor debates leaving the Poudre River Trail agreement.🌳 City Council Highlights — Updates to tree policies, housing flexibility near transit, and proposed changes to capital and transportation expansion fees.🎃 Things to Do This Weekend — Tiny Tot Halloween, CSU Volleyball, FoCo Boo Crawl, Frankenstein at the Rialto, and much more happening around town!📩 Subscribe to the Northern Colorado Insider NewsletterStay in the loop with local news, events, and real estate insights every week.📲 Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Northern Colorado?Let’s connect — I help clients make smart moves in Fort Collins and beyond.Patrick Soukup📞 Call/Text: 970-893-3533📧 Email: [email protected]💻 Schedule: calendly.com/soukuprealestateservices/30min🌐 Website: soukuprealestate.com