The Move-Up Bridge: Is Your Monument Equity Ready for Spring?
- Stephanie Lee
- Mar 8
- 3 min read
From the Desk of Stephanie Lee | March 2026
I was at Serranos the other morning, grabbing a hot tea and one of their Gluten-Free treats, when a neighbor stopped me. They have outgrown their current home in the Tri-Lakes, but they are nervous about the logistics of moving.
They asked: "Stephanie, we have the equity... but does a move actually make sense in 2026?"
If you are sitting on the fence, here is the reality from someone who lives and breathes Monument real estate: The "Rate Lock" is thawing, and March is your window.
Monument Market Facts (March 2026)
Equity is Peaking: Median home values in Monument are holding strong at $749,900, showing a 6.6% year-over-year increase (Source: Realtor.com / Movoto). If you have been in your home 3+ years, you are likely sitting on a goldmine.
Rates are in the "High 5s": As of March 2, 2026, average Colorado 30-year fixed mortgage rates have dipped to 5.7% – 5.94% (Source: NerdWallet / Bankrate). The bridge to your next home just got much more affordable.
Inventory is Up: There are currently 313 active listings in the Monument area. You actually have choices in neighborhoods like Woodmoor or Kings Deer without the 2:00 AM bidding wars of previous years.
My "Underwriter Brain" = Your Secret Weapon
Most agents just look at the paint colors. Because of my background in mortgage underwriting, I look at the Risk Mitigation. In a "Move-Up" scenario, you are usually selling and buying at the same time. That is a high-wire act that requires more than just luck.
I vet the buyers: When we list your home, I scrutinize their financing. I want to know if their "pre-approval" is rock solid so your deal does not fall apart ten days before closing.
I find the concessions: In this balanced market, we are successfully negotiating Seller Concessions to buy down your new interest rate.
Local Lifestyle: Finding Your Spot in the Tri-Lakes
Monument isn't just one market. As locals, we know the difference between the bustling vibe of downtown and the privacy of the perimeter.
Woodmoor: Ideal for those wanting mature trees and established large lots.
Kings Deer: The spot for true custom homes and acreage without being hours from town.
Downtown Monument or Palmer Lake: Perfect for walking to La Casa Fiesta for margaritas or grabbing a drink at 105 Social House. Note: For those looking at Palmer Lake, it's a great alternative if you want to stay in the D-38 area.
We live here. We want you in a home that actually fits your 2026 life, not the one you outgrew two years ago.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it a buyer’s or seller’s market in Monument right now? A: It is Balanced. Sellers of move-in-ready homes are winning, but with days on market averaging 94 days (Source: Local MLS Data), buyers finally have the leverage to negotiate repairs and price.
Q: Should I wait until Summer? A: No. Lewis-Palmer District 38 is currently ranked the #2 best school district in the Colorado Springs area (Source: Niche 2026). Families are searching now to be settled before the next school year starts. Listing in March puts you right in front of that high-intent audience.
Let’s Chat Over Tea (My Treat!)
Wondering if you can turn your current equity into that semi-custom dream home? Let’s look at the real numbers. I’ll meet you at Serranos, the tea is on me.
"Service you deserve, people you trust." — Stephanie Lee