The King County Market at a Glance
The market is still strong, but it’s no longer the bidding-war frenzy of a few years ago. Here’s what matters right now:
- Median home price: about $899K and still inching up.
- Days on market: now about 3 weeks, giving buyers more breathing room.
- Inventory: slowly rising, but still low enough to lean toward sellers.
- Mortgage rates: hovering around the mid-6% range, affecting affordability.
Bottom line:
Buyers have a little more room to negotiate. Sellers can still do well if they present and price their home correctly.
If You’re Buying
Today’s market rewards buyers who are prepared but patient.
- Get pre-approved early. This sets your budget and strengthens your offer.
- Be ready when value appears. The best homes still move fast.
- Negotiate beyond price. Closing costs, timelines, and contingencies have become flexible again.
- Think longer-term. With rates higher, a 5-year+ outlook often makes the most sense.
If You’re Selling
Buyers are pickier than they were during peak competition, so positioning matters.
Plan your timing. Each season behaves differently, and strategy can shift results. do well if they present and price their home correctly.
Price correctly from day one. Overpricing leads to sitting on the market.
Improve the first impression. Light updates, staging, and curb appeal go a long way.
Offer reasonable terms. Flexibility can attract strong, serious buyers.
Not All Parts of King County Move the Same
Every neighborhood has its own pace.
- Eastside luxury markets—Bellevue, Kirkland, Mercer Island—still see strong demand and limited supply.
- Entry-level homes face more affordability pressure, giving buyers more options.
- Condos and townhomes are behaving differently than single-family homes, with generally longer market times.
I always recommend making decisions based on your specific ZIP code, price range, and property type, not the county average.
What I’m Watching Next
A few factors will shape the coming months:
- Changes in mortgage rates.
- Inventory trends as we move through each season.
- How affordability impacts buyer demand.
- Local zoning and construction activity.
- Shifts in investor activity.
Small changes in any of these areas can quickly affect pricing, competition, and timing.
My Approach
Real estate decisions feel easier when the information is clear. My role is to:
- Give you straightforward market insights.
- Explain how county-wide trends apply to your location and budget.
- Adjust strategy with you as conditions change.
- Make sure you understand each step so you feel confident in your choice.
If you’re planning a move, have questions about timing, or want a quick neighborhood-by-neighborhood review, I’m here to help.
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