Updates from Sally Shiekman


As a seasoned broker with deep roots in Aspen, Snowmass, and the Roaring Fork Valley, I’m passionate about sharing insight into our dynamic markets. Whether you're buying, selling, or simply staying informed, my goal is to help you navigate with clarity, confidence, and a local’s perspective.
   

From Ski Boots to Hiking Trails: Why Aspen is a Year-Round Haven

April 29, 2025
When the lifts stop spinning and the ski season draws to a close, Aspen doesn’t miss a beat—instead, it seamlessly transitions into a playground filled with spring and summer adventures. Many come to Aspen for the legendary skiing, but it’s the dynamic, year-round lifestyle that often turns visitors into residents.

As the snow melts, the valley blooms, unveiling endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The same mountains that offer thrilling ski runs become prime terrain for scenic hikes, trail running, and world-renowned mountain biking. Cyclists from around the globe flock here to challenge themselves on breathtaking climbs like Independence Pass, the iconic climb to Maroon Lake at the base of the Maroon Bells or enjoy leisurely rides along the Roaring Fork River. For anglers, spring and summer bring ideal conditions for fly fishing, with pristine rivers teeming with trout.

But the appeal doesn’t stop at adventure alone. Aspen’s cultural scene blossoms in the warmer months, with renowned events like the Aspen Ideas Festival, Aspen Music Festival, and JAS Aspen Snowmass (with festivals in both June and Labor Day), each attracting global thought leaders, world-class performers, and passionate audiences. Our farmers’ markets offer fresh, locally-sourced produce, crafts, and culinary delights, connecting residents with the vibrant local community.

And let’s not forget wellness—Aspen embraces a holistic lifestyle. Picture yourself starting your day with mountaintop yoga sessions, followed by restorative spa treatments, or simply unwinding with a picnic at the Maroon Bells. Aspen caters to a lifestyle that nourishes both body and soul.

If you’re considering a home in Aspen, Snowmass, or anywhere along the Roaring Fork Valley corridor, now’s the perfect time to explore all that spring and summer have to offer. Contact me, Sally Shiekman, at 970-948-7530—I’m here to guide you in finding your ideal property and making Aspen your year-round haven.

Let me put my Mountains of Experience to work for you.

April 2025 Market Pulse: Aspen & Snowmass Stay Strong Amid National Luxury Retreat

April 23, 2025
While headlines across the country highlight a slowdown in the luxury housing market—with wealthy buyers backing out of multimillion-dollar deals from coast to coast—Aspen and Snowmass tell a different story. And the latest numbers from the Q1 report prepared by Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s statistic guru, Andrew Ernemann, confirm what many of us are seeing: the high-end market here remains remarkably resilient.

In Aspen, the average single-family home sale has climbed to $17.3 million, a 16.6% increase from last year, with price per square foot now topping $3,686. Condos aren’t far behind, averaging $6.43 million—up over 41% year-over-year. Even with fewer transactions overall, total volume is up substantially, signaling that buyers are choosing better properties, not abandoning the market.

Snowmass Village is seeing its version of the upswing. Single-family home volume jumped nearly 68%, and the average condo price per square foot rose more than 35%. At Stratos, Base Village’s final new construction opportunity, only 21 out of 89 units remain available for delivery in 2026. Yes, sales counts are slightly lower, but quality and price are trending upward. There’s a noticeable shortage of single-family homes for sale in Snowmass Village; as of 4/15/25, there are 14 single-family homes on the market, with 5 of those under contract and waiting to close.

So what gives? While markets like LA, NYC, and Miami report more cancellations and longer days on market, Aspen is benefiting from unique factors: a lifestyle-driven buyer pool, limited inventory, and a global brand appeal that transcends typical cycles. Aspen’s pending inventory is up over 32% from last year, and Snowmass pending deals are up over 52%.

For sellers, this could be your moment. Quality properties are commanding premium prices, and buyers still in the game are serious, decisive, and ready. And for buyers? There’s value in being prepared and strategic in a competitive environment.

The truth is, real estate is always local. And Aspen isn’t just another luxury market—it’s a world-class destination with staying power.

Let me put my Mountains of Experience to work for you.

Significant Real Estate Moves in Aspen and Snowmass Village

April 18, 2025
The Aspen real estate market continues to demonstrate its resilience and appeal, with some landmark transactions recently capturing attention.

Viewline and Wildwood Hotels Sale
The largest hotel property in Snowmass Village, encompassing the Viewline Resort Snowmass, Wildwood Snowmass Lodge, and the Snowmass Conference Center, just sold for nearly $144 million. The buyer, Elevate Snowmass LLC, is controlled by noted hotelier Stephane De Baets, the founder of Elevated Returns. De Baets already holds significant investments locally, including the St. Regis Aspen Resort and Redstone Castle (located about an hour from Aspen), underscoring his bullish outlook on the area’s potential. The Viewline Resort Snowmass, built in 1968, the adjoining conference center, and the Wildwood Lodge have undergone multiple ownership transitions and renovations over recent years. Marriott International will continue managing the Viewline Resort, promising continuity and consistent quality.

Monastery Property Under Contract
In Old Snowmass, the expansive 3,739-acre Monastery property listed at $150 million, on the market for about ten months, is now officially under contract. The sizable acreage and high-profile status have kept eyes on this unique property as a landmark real estate listing in the valley.

Rare Opportunity Still Available
For buyers still eyeing the ultra-luxury segment, the former Elk Mountain Lodge remains available at a $125 million asking price. Currently, the only Aspen area property listed above $100 million, this estate represents a rare opportunity in Aspen's exclusive market.

These recent transactions and listings highlight the continued robust activity and significant investment in Aspen, Snowmass Village, and the Roaring Fork Valley, signaling sustained demand and strong market confidence.

If you or someone you know has an interest in the Roaring Fork Valley real estate markets, please call me at 970-948-7530 or visit me online at SallyShiekman.com and let me put my Mountains of Experience to work for you. 

Thinking of Selling? Get a Free Seller Presentation—No Strings Attached

April 8, 2025
If you’re contemplating selling your home—whether this season or years from now—it would be my privilege to offer you something that my clients find very useful: my custom seller presentation and market analysis for your property, completely free, with no obligation to list. It's just a chance to get to know one another.

This Customized, Complimentary Listing Presentation gives you a snapshot of what’s happening in your neighborhood, properties currently for sale in your price range, and what steps you'll want to take to make your home market-ready. I’ll even walk through your home with you, offering honest, professional staging suggestions to help you get the best result, whether you choose to list now, later, or not at all.

With over 33 years of experience selling real estate in the Aspen and Roaring Fork Valley markets and a track record of hundreds of successful transactions, I know what it takes to make your sale smooth, strategic, and profitable.

If you're curious how much your home is worth, what buyers are looking for, or just want to talk about timing, please call me, Sally Shiekman, at 970-948-9530 and Let me put my Mountains of Experience to work for you.

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Why Buying in Aspen is a Smarter Long-Term Investment

April 2, 2025
I've been selling real estate in Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley for over 33 years, and one thing has remained true: real estate here is more than just a purchase—it’s an investment in a lifestyle, a legacy, and long-term value.

In high-end markets, people often debate between buying in a city like New York, LA, or Miami versus mountain towns like Aspen, Snowmass, Basalt or Carbondale. While urban real estate has its appeal—business opportunities, high rental demand, and cultural access—there’s one significant difference: scarcity. You can always build more high-rises but can’t make more Aspen.

Aspen’s real estate market is defined by its limited land, stringent zoning, and a deep-rooted commitment to preserving the town’s character. This means that every home or condo here holds intrinsic value, driven by supply and demand. We’re not just a ski town; we’re an international destination with a year-round appeal, from summer hiking and festivals to world-class skiing, to golden autumn colors that take your breath away. Unlike many urban areas, where the next economic downturn can lead to high vacancy rates and dropping property values, Aspen has consistently demonstrated resilience and appreciation.

Another key factor? Quality of life. Investing in Aspen isn’t just about financial returns—it’s about access to nature, privacy, and a close-knit community that’s rare in major metropolitan areas. While city properties may come with noise, congestion, and ever-changing neighborhood trends, Aspen, Snowmass, and the Roaring Fork Valley remain nature-filled retreats that buyers keep coming back to.

I’ve worked with clients who have bought, held for the long term and bought and resold over the past three decades, and repeatedly, this market proves to be a wise long-term play. If you’re looking to invest where exclusivity meets stability, let’s talk. Let me put my Mountains of Experience to work for you.
 

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