One of my biggest recommendations to home buyers is to start your search by exploring neighborhoods. Drive around, go on a walk (bring your pup!), check out a local coffee shop, explore a weekend farmers market, go to dinner at a neighborhood restaurant and ask people how they’d describe the area. Given how fast the market moves right now, when you find a home that you like and want to offer on, you likely won’t have enough time to do a deep dive and research the area in totality – so get that underway early!
As you identify neighborhoods and areas you like, we can work together to tailor your search. I can also suggest other areas that have a similar feel or offer homes that meet your needs.
Here are some of my favorite Denver neighborhoods and where to go within them:
Highlands
The Highlands, west of downtown Denver, has a residential, neighbor-hoody feel to it, but still includes vibrant sections of nightlife and dining spread throughout. Two of the most popular clusters of things to check out is Highland Square at 32nd Avenue and LoHi from S. Platt St. to Zuni St. Some of my favorite local spots in these areas include Highlands Cork & Coffee, El Camino Community Tavern, Mead St. Provisions, Williams & Graham, Uncle, Three Dog Bakery, Metalmark Jewelry, Nurture and Dryland Fitness. The region is named because it’s raised up on a hillside overlooking the city.
Berkeley
This is one of Denver’s most cherished, and fast changing areas. The neighborhood features a mix of Denver Square and Tudor homes, along with modern townhomes and duplexes. It is also very residential, but also close to things to do. This area is also home to one of the city’s 12 dog parks so if you have a pup this is a great area for you! The neighborhood is anchored by fabulous restaurants, bars, and shops along Tennyson Street (from 38th St. to 46th Ave.). My favorites include Allegro Coffee, Post Oak BBQ, Parisi pizzeria trattoria e vino, Alchemy Face Bar, Dona Forta and Miller Lane Mercantile.
Sunnyside
Northwest of downtown is where you’ll find this popular area. Once more industrial, this area has had an influx of new eateries, shops and residents given new development, including a Light Rail stop on the eastern edge of the neighborhood. The MODUS Real Estate offices are in this area so I spend a lot of time there. Some of my favorites places to go to are Huckleberry Roasters, Radiator, So Damn Gouda, El Jefe and Pochitos Tortilla Factory.
Jefferson Park
South of LoHi and east of Sloan’s Lake, you’ll find Jefferson Park. This is an area anchored by greenspace and full of new development. From the park you can take in views of the city skyline and Elitch Gardens Theme Park, you’re close to the REI flagship store and other amenities in Downtown’s Central Platte Valley. Some of my favorite spots in this neighborhood include Briar Common Brewery + Eatery, Sexy Pizza and Whirlybird Ice Cream & Waffles.
Sloan’s Lake
About 3 miles west of downtown Denver is where you’ll find this neighborhood. I also happen to live here, so call me biased but it’s pretty great. Sloan’s Lake is a nice choice for anyone looking to be just outside of downtown (but still close) and features Denver’s largest lake. Homes in the area are a mix of Tudors, Mediterranean revivals, contemporary remodels and new construction duplexes and townhomes. It’s quieter than Highlands, but there has been some recent growth to the area for places to eat and drink – The Patio at Sloan’s, Odell Brewing Sloan’s Lake and Sloan’s Tap & Burger.
West Colfax
This upcoming and continuing to develop neighborhood surrounds West Colfax Avenue on both sides, just south of Sloan’s Lake. As you walk the streets you’ll find a lot of new construction and development. This area offers relatively easy access to I-25 and Highway 6, as well as downtown Denver on Colfax make this a desirable area over the long term. Some of my favorite spots in this area are Duality (fitness studio), Brew Culture and Seedstock Brewery.
Reach out to me today if you’d like to learn more about these neighborhoods, other areas and/or getting your home search underway!