Colorado University (CU) Parents

As a parent of a University of Colorado student living in Boulder, you're probably intimately aware of the shortage of student housing. Some freshmen have yet to have access to on-campus dorms. You may have or may be considering purchasing housing for your student.

 Availability of other housing options

Available options include the current dorms, the rental market, and new developments.

Construction of "The Standard," a 303-unit, 936-bed development by Landmark, began in April 2023. It is to serve the student housing needs.

To address the housing crisis, the City of Boulder voted in August 2023 to allow five unrelated people to live together.  

CU was approved to build Residence One in November 2023, and construction started in May 2024. Residence One is expected to house 330 students. 

In June 2024, CU Bought a Louisville property, 1164 W. Dillon Road, that had been a movie theater for $10 million. CU Boulder is planning to develop the property for staff and faculty housing.

The CU portal hosts Ralphie's List, a university-run service created to coordinate Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations.

 History of Increases in Boulder Property Values

According to FHA data, Boulder has experienced property value declines in only four years since 1979: 1983, 2009 through 2011.

 Buy Vs. Rent Calculator

There are online calculators and title company apps to help you evaluate the costs of renting compared to owning.

Pros and Cons of making a purchase

Stability.

Nicer living environment.

Potential appreciation.

Rental income from roommates.

Students could establish full-time residency, review what this means, and talk with financial advisors and attorneys. 

Cons

Roommates' failure to pay.

Roommates do not care for property.

Personality conflicts with roommates.

Possible declines in Real Estate values.

Purchases usually won't be penciled out for financial aid or scholarship students. 

Current availability

As of October 1, 2024, over 150 attached units* under $650,000 are listed or for sale in the local IRES Multiple Listing Service. This level of inventory presents buyers with an opportunity. 

Curious about options? Please call for additional information. Tamara 530-448-1626

*Townhomes and Condominiums