Mortgage rates went up, not down, this fall: Colorado's 30-year fixed is running about 7 to 7.45 percent. The local market is holding steady anyway. Prices and inventory in Boulder and Broomfield counties have barely moved this year, and Longmont's median is up 2.6 percent to about $615,000. Buyers are still out there. They're just taking their time. The real story is condos and townhomes. New Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac lending rules took effect August 3, and they make financing harder in buildings with thin reserves or deferred maintenance. If you're buying or selling attached property, bring in a strong lender before you write or accept an offer. Here's the real picture, so you can make your call with your eyes open.