With nearly thirty-five years in Boulder, Jennifer Egbert, top realtor at milehimodern and founding member of REALM Global, is a leading authority on the city’s most coveted neighborhoods. Known for her sharp insight and deep market knowledge, she offers a seasoned perspective on what makes Boulder’s real estate landscape so unique. From evolving buyer preferences in luxury homes to the potential influence of Sundance on the local market, Jennifer shares expert guidance, compelling stories, and insider advice for anyone looking to navigate this competitive and ever-changing environment.
Boulder Lifestyle: What first drew you to real estate, and what keeps you passionate about working in Boulder?
Jennifer Egbert: My friend was in real estate and sold me my first house at 26. She encouraged me to get my license because she knew that I was great at sales and also liked people. I can say without question that no day is like the last in this industry. Over two decades later, I still learn new things every day. For a curious mind, that’s key. It is very difficult to get bored in this business or not use your critical thinking skills.
BL: What are local buyers prioritizing most in luxury homes right now?
JE: Local buyers want location, access to outdoor recreation, easy commute to schools or work or play. They want to do little to no work on the home (move-in ready), at the moment, outside of interior design. I see a lot of buyers buying homes furnished if there are custom sofas, tables, etc.
BL: Can you share a favorite sale or client experience that really stuck with you?
JE: Awwww, for sure. It’s actually how I met one of my dearest friends. When my daughter was in preschool, one of the moms approached me and asked me if I wanted to help them to buy a house up in Breckenridge. Because it was not my area of expertise (I’m exclusive to Boulder County), I encouraged her to use the realtor who had sold a different property for her and explained to her that there are so many nuances to marketplaces, and I didn’t know Summit County well. She often tells me that is when she knew I wasn’t just hanging out with them for the sale and that she instantly grew to trust me. Ten years and many real estate deals later, she and her husband prove that you can be friends and do business together. A real estate deal is by no means transactional in Boulder. You learn so much about your clients, and friends, and care and discretion are 100% necessary.
BL: How do you stay ahead of market shifts and trends in such a competitive area?
JE: I read a ton and talk to agents from all over the world. I have an incredibly elite network and access to high-level conversations with people who are far more intelligent than I am. Those conversations tend to be more casual and friendly than they are business-like. Boulder has wildly similar market trends to certain cities in the US, and even a predictable domino effect that happens. Pattern recognition is a bit of a superpower for me, as well as active listening. It's most important to pivot quickly and not let shifts take you out.
BL: Which Boulder neighborhoods are you most excited about these days—and what’s driving that interest?
JE: For ultra luxury, I like Sunset, Carolyn Heights, and the super private area called Field of Dreams (near the jewel streets). These neighborhoods have huge lots and do not look cookie-cutter. They tend to have incredible views as well. I think Lake of the Pines is going to see a surge in value due to its gated community, private lake access, and views. Gunbarrel Estates/Greens will continue to become more and more luxury as the Boulder Country Club continues to attract newcomers and long-timers alike. My own neighborhood in Old North Boulder is awesome. Super casual, old-Boulder vibe with the best neighbors ever. And you can’t live in Boulder without loving our historic districts. The high level of restorations that are happening are what keep us an extremely charming and attractive place to live.
BL: What sets a truly exceptional property apart in Boulder’s luxury market?
JE: Personal style and quality. Gone are the days of so-so craftsmanship being acceptable. Charm or style are always the winners. Staying away from trends and injecting a home with personal style always is a winner in my book. Show me the rugs you picked up in Africa against concrete! Paint your dining room in a high-gloss emerald green in your historic home! Mix MidCentury with antiques. Homes have so many stories they tell, and they’re so fun to see. They didn’t coin the phrase “if these walls could talk” for nothing.
BL: With Sundance on the way, what impact do you think it’ll have on the local real estate scene?
JE: I think we are going to see a lot more luxury 2nd and 3rd homes being purchased, and I think we will see more luxury homes and hideaways being built in our mountains as well. I hope we attract some more creative types, writers, and the like. I think we will see the close-in mountain towns like Nederland, Gold Hill, Jamestown, and areas like Lyons and Hygiene continue to blossom with cool music venues, retail, and restaurants.
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