Market Trends October 22, 2025

🏡 Washington State Real Estate Update: Seller’s Market Trends & Predictions for Q4 2025 and Q1 2026

As we enter the final quarter of 2025, Washington State’s housing market continues to show signs of resilience and strategic opportunity—especially for sellers. While the market is no longer in the frenzy of previous years, it remains competitive, with certain areas still favoring sellers due to low inventory and steady demand.

Current Market Snapshot: October 2025

Washington is experiencing a moderately strong seller’s market, particularly in metro areas like Seattle, Bellevue, and Bellingham. Here are the key indicators:

  • Median Home Price: The statewide median price sits at $675,600, up 0.9% year-over-year. [noradarealestate.com]
  • Inventory Levels: Inventory has increased by 15.3% year-over-year, with 33,699 homes for sale statewide. [redfin.com]
  • Sales Activity: Existing home sales rose 47.4% quarter-over-quarter, signaling renewed buyer interest. [noradarealestate.com]
  • Seattle Market: Despite mortgage rates hovering around 6.37%, Seattle maintains a strong sales intensity of 40.2%, indicating homes are still moving quickly. [themadronagroup.com]

While some rural counties are seeing price dips, urban and suburban areas continue to attract buyers, especially those relocating for tech and green energy jobs.


Trends Driving the Market

  • Remote Work: Buyers are seeking homes with office space and more square footage, pushing demand in suburban and rural areas.
  • Tech Expansion: Companies like Amazon and Microsoft are fueling housing demand in satellite cities like Spokane, Tacoma, and Redmond. [jakenfinan…egroup.com]
  • Infrastructure Investment: Major transportation and broadband upgrades are increasing property values along key corridors.

Q4 2025 Predictions

As we move through the fall season, expect:

  • Stable Prices: Prices will likely hold steady or rise modestly, especially in tech-adjacent neighborhoods.
  • Buyer Adaptation: Buyers are using rate buydowns and concessions to stay competitive.
  • Strategic Selling: Homes that are well-positioned—priced right and staged effectively—will continue to sell quickly.

Q1 2026 Outlook

Looking ahead to early 2026, here’s what we anticipate:

  • Moderate Price Growth: Analysts forecast 8–12% appreciation in high-demand areas, especially near tech hubs. [jakenfinan…egroup.com]
  • Improved Inventory: Continued growth in listings will offer buyers more options, though affordability challenges will persist. [themortgag…eports.com]
  • Balanced Market Emergence: While sellers still hold an edge in many areas, the market is slowly shifting toward balance, especially in cities like Spokane and Tacoma. [sjcmanagement.com]

What This Means for Sellers

If you’re considering listing your home, Q4 2025 is still a strong window. With buyer demand holding and inventory rising, now is the time to:

  • Price strategically based on local comps.
  • Highlight remote-work features like office space or flexible layouts.
  • Leverage concessions to attract serious buyers.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Move for You

While the Washington housing market continues to favor sellers in many areas, it’s important to remember that real estate decisions are deeply personal. Whether you’re looking to capitalize on current market conditions, downsize, relocate, or simply explore your options, the best move is the one that aligns with your goals and timeline.

Take time to:

  • Evaluate your equity position
  • Consider your lifestyle needs
  • Consult with a trusted real estate professional to understand your local market dynamics

The fourth quarter of 2025 and early 2026 offer promising opportunities, but timing your sale should be based on what’s right for you—not just the market. If you’re curious about your home’s value or wondering what a sale might look like, now is a great time to start the conversation. Click here to get started!

Home Improvement October 17, 2025

🏡 Top 10 Things Homeowners Can Do to Get Their Home Ready to Sell

Selling your home is more than just putting up a sign in the yard—it’s about presenting your property in the best possible light to attract buyers and maximize your sale price. Here are the top 10 things you can do to get your home market-ready.


1. Boost Curb Appeal

Your home’s exterior is the first thing buyers see. Make it count:

  • Mow the lawn and trim shrubs
  • Plant seasonal flowers
  • Power wash the driveway and siding
  • Paint the front door and update house numbers

2. Declutter Every Room

Less is more when it comes to staging. Remove:

  • Excess furniture
  • Personal items
  • Anything that makes rooms feel crowded

Consider renting a storage unit to keep things out of sight.


3. Deep Clean Everything

A clean home feels well-maintained. Focus on:

  • Kitchens and bathrooms
  • Windows and baseboards
  • Carpets and appliances

Eliminate odors from pets, smoke, or cooking.


4. Depersonalize the Space

Help buyers imagine themselves living there:

  • Remove family photos
  • Take down kids’ artwork
  • Store personal collections

5. Make Minor Repairs

Small fixes can make a big difference:

  • Patch holes and touch up paint
  • Fix leaky faucets and squeaky doors
  • Replace cracked tiles or broken hardware

6. Neutralize Paint Colors

Bold colors can be distracting. Opt for:

  • Soft neutrals like beige, gray, or off-white
  • Fresh coats of paint in high-traffic areas

7. Stage Strategically

Highlight your home’s best features:

  • Arrange furniture to maximize space
  • Add cozy touches like throw pillows and fresh flowers
  • Use soft lighting to create warmth

8. Maximize Natural Light

Bright homes feel more inviting:

  • Open blinds and curtains
  • Clean windows thoroughly
  • Replace heavy drapes with lighter ones

9. Highlight Storage Space

Buyers love storage—make yours shine:

  • Organize closets and cabinets
  • Tidy up the garage and attic
  • Show off built-in shelving or pantry space

10. Get a Pre-Listing Inspection

Avoid surprises during negotiations:

  • Hire a home inspector to identify issues early
  • Make repairs before listing
  • Provide buyers with peace of mind

Final Thoughts

Preparing your home for sale takes time and effort, but it pays off in faster offers and better prices. Think of it as setting the stage for someone else’s dream—and making your next move a smooth one.