Inventory Surges Across Western Washington as Mortgage Rates Dip Below 6%

The February 2026 housing market data from the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS) shows an important shift as we move toward the spring market. Across Washington, housing inventory is rising, giving buyers more choices while mortgage rates have recently dipped below 6% for the first time since 2022.

For buyers and sellers in Snohomish County, King County, and Pierce County, these changes are creating new opportunities and a slightly more balanced market heading into spring.

As a Real Estate Broker specializing in Snohomish County, King County, and Pierce County, I’m keeping a close eye on these trends so my clients can make informed decisions.

Regional Market Snapshot – February 2026

Across the NWMLS coverage area, active inventory increased nearly 28% year over year, bringing total listings to 13,341 homes. More sellers are entering the market as interest rates begin easing and life transitions drive housing decisions.

At the same time:

  • Closed sales: 4,139 homes sold across the region

  • Median sales price: $620,000

  • Month-over-month price change: +4.2%

  • Year-over-year price change: -1.6%

While sales are slightly lower than last year, buyer activity remains strong with increased property showings and broker activity heading into the spring market.

County Housing Market Breakdown

Below is a snapshot of the combined Residential + Condo market totals for the counties most relevant to Pelham Group clients.

Snohomish County Housing Market

Snohomish County continues to see significant inventory growth, giving buyers more options than they’ve had in recent years.

February 2026 – Snohomish County

  • New Listings: 1,034

  • Active Listings: 1,422

  • Pending Sales: 833

  • Closed Sales: 603

  • Median Sales Price: $720,000

  • Year-over-Year Median Price Change: -2.04%

Inventory in Snohomish County increased 50.16% year over year, reflecting a major expansion in available homes compared to early 2025.

 For buyers, that means more negotiating power and more homes to choose from. For sellers, it means pricing and presentation are becoming increasingly important.

King County Housing Market

King County remains the highest-priced housing market in the region, with steady demand across Seattle, the Eastside, and surrounding communities.

February 2026 – King County

  • New Listings: 2,968

  • Active Listings: 4,399

  • Pending Sales: 1,945

  • Closed Sales: 1,364

  • Median Sales Price: $840,000

  • Year-over-Year Median Price Change: +2.44%

Inventory in King County rose 35.48% year over year, indicating a shift toward a more balanced market after several years of tight supply.

Despite the increase in listings, home prices continue to show resilience.

Pierce County Housing Market

Pierce County continues to attract buyers seeking more affordability compared to King and Snohomish counties.

February 2026 – Pierce County

  • New Listings: 1,005

  • Active Listings: 1,720

  • Pending Sales: 1,017

  • Closed Sales: 662

  • Median Sales Price: $568,500

  • Year-over-Year Median Price Change: +5.08%

Inventory increased 25.0% year over year, helping ease the intense competition buyers experienced in recent years.

Pierce County remains one of the fastest-moving housing markets in the region thanks to its relative affordability.

What This Means for Buyers

Several factors are improving the outlook for buyers entering the market this spring:

  • Mortgage rates dipping below 6%

  • More homes available

  • 76% of listings eligible for down-payment assistance programs

With more inventory and improved financing conditions, buyers who were previously sidelined may find new opportunities in the coming months.

What This Means for Sellers

Even with rising inventory, well-prepared homes continue to sell.

Sellers who want to succeed in the current market should focus on:

  • Accurate pricing based on current market conditions

  • Strategic marketing and professional presentation

  • Timing their listing ahead of peak spring demand

Homes that are properly positioned are still attracting strong interest.

Looking Ahead to the Spring Market

The February data suggests we are entering a more balanced housing market across Western Washington.

Key trends to watch:

  • Increasing inventory

  • Slight price adjustments in some areas

  • Strong buyer activity as interest rates stabilize

For both buyers and sellers, preparation and strategy will be critical as we move deeper into the spring real estate season.

Thinking About Buying or Selling?

If you are considering buying or selling in Snohomish County, King County, or Pierce County, I would love to help you navigate the current market and develop the right strategy.

Working with a local expert can help you take advantage of opportunities in a changing market.

Kim Pelham
The Pelham Group
Katrina Eileen Real Estate

Are Home Prices Dropping? Here’s the real story…

You’ve probably seen posts on social media talking about how “home prices are falling.” And when you see something like that, it’s normal to wonder:

Is this the start of a crash?

What does this mean for my house?

Let’s clear this up right away. This is not a crash. And your home is not suddenly losing a lot of value.

The National Story – Prices Are Still Going Up

Here’s what often gets left out of what you’re seeing online. While some markets are experiencing slight declines, they’re the minority. Most places are still seeing prices rise or at the very least, hold steady.

That’s why, at the national level, home prices are still rising, just at a slower pace. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“Home prices continued to rise in the fourth quarter of 2025. National median prices rose 1.2% year over year to $414,900.”

That’s not the rapid growth of a few years ago, but it’s not a downturn either. And just to really drive this home, here’s a look at the data from NAR at a regional level, so you can see that the negative narrative spun up online isn’t the whole truth (see graph below):

a graph of a number of housesHome prices are up (or at least holding steady) in the Northeast, Midwest, and South. The West has seen some small declines in certain markets, but “small” is the key word.

There is no wave of falling prices across the country. Instead, there are just a few pockets adjusting after several years of what’s typically considered unsustainable or exponential growth.

Yes, Some Markets Have Come Down, But Look at the Bigger Picture.

Okay, but what about the places where prices have declined? According to ResiClub and Zillow, that’s not a cause for major concern. When you zoom out and look at those same markets over the past five years, the story changes (see graph below):

a graph of a number of percentIn the areas with recent declines, home values are still significantly higher than they were just five years ago. That’s a direct reflection of how much home values have gone up.

Online chatter tends to shine a spotlight on the few areas that are down. But the bigger picture shows most homeowners are still in a very strong position.

Of course, every market, and every home, is different. But broadly speaking, home values are holding steady. And this isn’t a sign of widespread trouble in the market.

Bottom Line

Despite what you may be seeing online, home prices are rising or holding steady in most parts of the country.

If you’re curious what your home is worth today, let’s take a look at the numbers together. Because context, and local expertise, matter more than what you’re seeing online.

The Hidden Advantage Repeat Buyers Have Right Now

What if you didn’t have a mortgage payment on your next house? It may sound a little unrealistic. But for a number of homeowners, it’s actually doable.

Nearly 3 in 10 homes purchased today are bought in cash, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). That’s far more than the pre-pandemic norm (see graph below):

So, how are so many buyers pulling that off? The answer is simple: home equity.

Back in 2020-2021, mortgage rates and the number of homes for sale were both at all-time lows. And that combination pushed home prices up, fast.

If you owned a home during that time, it likely gained significant value – maybe even enough to buy your next house in cash. NAR explains:

“. . . rising home equity has armed many existing homeowners with the financial leverage to make cash offers, allowing them to convert years of price appreciation into immediate purchasing power.”

Here’s why you may want to go that route yourself, if you have enough equity to do it.

1. Your Offer Becomes More Attractive

Sellers value certainty. And an all-cash offer removes one of the biggest unknowns in a transaction: financing. As Rocket Mortgage explains:

“Cash offers are attractive to sellers. Sellers often prefer to work with cash buyers if they can because they don’t have to worry about a buyer’s financing falling through at the last minute.”

In many markets, an all-cash offer can give you a serious edge.

2. You Can Close Faster

And since you don’t have to worry about underwriting, lender approvals, and loan processing, the time it takes to close shrinks. Cotality puts it this way:

“Cash buyers have always enjoyed an edge over borrowers. They remove financing risk, reduce delays, and often close in days rather than weeks.”

If the owner of the house you’re buying is already under contract on their next home or they just need to move fast (like for a new job), that speed is a real draw.

3. You Won’t Have Monthly Mortgage Payments

When you buy in cash, you don’t have to finance your purchase. That means you don’t have to worry about what today’s mortgage rates are and you own the house outright from the day you close. And that’s a big deal.

No mortgage.

No monthly payment.

Full ownership.

That financial freedom opens the door for other big lifestyle benefits. Zillow explains:

“Paying in cash means you own your home outright. This eliminates the need for monthly mortgage payments, freeing up your finances for other priorities like savings, travel, or home improvements.”

4. You May Get a Better Deal

And here’s one more thing that surprises a lot of homeowners: cash buyers often pay less for the house.

According to Cotality, all-cash buyers tend to spend roughly 9% less on the house than buyers who use a mortgage. That’s because some sellers are willing to accept lower offers to get a deal done quickly, with more certainty of closing, and fewer financing hoops to jump through. As Cotality explains:

“From a seller’s point of view, a lower but reliable offer can feel preferable to a higher one that may collapse weeks later.”

And that advantage grows with each passing year (see graph below):

Is an All-Cash Move Realistic for You?

Not every homeowner will buy their next house outright in cash. And that’s okay.

But the bigger takeaway is this: the equity you’ve built may give you more options than you think.

Whether that means downsizing and eliminating a mortgage entirely, or just relocating with stronger negotiating power, your current house may be what makes it possible.

Bottom Line

Before assuming you’ll need another traditional mortgage, it’s worth asking one simple question: How much equity do you really have? Because the answer might change what you thought your next move could look like.

Curious what your home equity could do for you? Let’s run the numbers and see what kind of buying power you’re really sitting on.

Renting vs. Buying: The Numbers Might Surprise You

Renting can feel like the easier choice right now. There’s no big down payment. No dealing with surprise repairs. And no long-term commitment.

But then your rent goes up again. And again. And suddenly the thing that seemed flexible starts looking… expensive, especially considering you’re not building any equity. And once that happens, it’s easy to feel a little trapped in the cycle.

That’s because there’s so much chatter today about how buying a home isn’t affordable. But the truth is, the math may work out better than you’d expect based on what’s changed recently.

Buying Is More Affordable Than Renting in Many Areas 

In a lot of places today, owning a home actually costs less each month than renting a 3-bedroom home. And recent data from ATTOM shows that’s true in nearly 58% of counties across the U.S. (see chart below).

And that’s after you factor in things like insurance and typical maintenance costs. 

a blue and grey circle with white textIn other words, even though it may feel like a bit of a shock, the numbers show rent often stretches monthly budgets more than owning does. That’s thanks to slower home price growth, more homes for sale, and monthly mortgage payments starting to ease as rates come down.

Affordability Still Varies by Region

Now, even though nationally the balance has shifted, that doesn’t mean buying is more affordable in every market or for every renter.

While buying is more affordable than renting in nearly 58% of counties nationwide, that share looks different depending on your region (see graph below):

a graph of a market

The biggest improvement is happening in the Midwest and South. But if you’re living in the West, things could still feel tight.

The takeaway? How affordable buying is really depends on where you live. And the only way to know how this plays out where you live is to look at the numbers locally.

So, What’s Still Holding Buyers Back? 

Maybe you’re nodding along so far but thinking, “Okay, but I still can’t afford the upfront costs.” If that’s your reaction, you’re not the only one.

For many renters, the biggest hurdle isn’t the monthly payment alone. It’s the down payment, too.

But you’re not out of options. Here’s the part most people don’t hear enough about: there are thousands of down payment assistance programs available across the country, and many buyers qualify without realizing it.

And the average benefit? Roughly $18,000.

That kind of support can help cover part of your down payment or closing costs, which means you may not need to save nearly as much as you think to get started.

When you combine that with monthly payments that may work better than expected, especially as rates continue to ease and prices cool, buying may feel far more realistic than it looks at first glance.

Bottom Line

The point isn’t that everyone should rush out and buy a home tomorrow.

It’s that renting isn’t always the more affordable option people assume it is – and buying may be more realistic than it feels once you look at the full picture.

If you’re renting and feeling stuck in the “someday” loop, it might be worth a simple conversation. Just a chance to see what’s possible and whether it makes sense for you.

Inventory Is Growing and Buyers Have More Choices

Inventory Is Growing and Buyers Have More Choices

By Kim Pelham, Broker | The Pelham Group Northwest at Katrina Eileen Real Estate

As we kick off 2026, the Washington housing market is showing a clear shift — and it’s one I’ve been watching closely across Snohomish, King, and Pierce Counties.

Inventory is rising, buyer activity is more measured, and pricing has softened slightly in many areas. This isn’t a market in distress — it’s a market rebalancing.

More homeowners are choosing to list, while buyers are taking a more thoughtful, value-driven approach. That combination is creating opportunity — but only if you understand what the numbers are actually telling us.

Below is a snapshot of where things stand as of January 2026, using the most recent data from the Northwest Multiple Listing Service.

Big Picture Across Washington

Statewide, active listings rose nearly 21% year over year, while closed sales declined about 7%, and median prices dipped just over 3%. That tells us supply is increasing faster than demand, giving buyers more options and sellers more competition.

At the same time, mortgage rates continued a slow downward trend, ending January around 6.10%, which has helped bring buyers back into the conversation — even if they’re moving carefully.

This is very typical of an early-year market reset before spring momentum begins.

Snohomish County Snapshot (Residential + Condos)

Snohomish County continues to be a focal point for many of my clients, and January data shows a noticeable inventory shift.

  • Active Listings: 1,246
    Up 33.0% year over year

  • New Listings: 922
    Down slightly year over year

  • Pending Sales: 733
    Down 11.8% year over year

  • Closed Sales: 438
    Down 21.2% year over year

  • Median Sales Price: $678,500
    Down 9.4% year over year

  • Months of Inventory: 2.84

What this means: Buyers have more choices than they’ve had in quite some time, and sellers need to be thoughtful about pricing and presentation. Homes that are well-prepared and priced correctly are still selling — just not instantly.

King County Snapshot (Residential + Condos)

King County inventory growth continues to ease pressure on buyers, particularly in Seattle and Eastside markets.

  • Active Listings: 3,761
    Up 25.6% year over year

  • New Listings: 2,694
    Up modestly year over year

  • Pending Sales: 1,735
    Down 4.1% year over year

  • Closed Sales: 1,099
    Down 6.9% year over year

  • Median Sales Price: $770,000
    Down 3.6% year over year

  • Months of Inventory: 3.42

King County is clearly moving toward a more balanced market. Buyers are negotiating more confidently, and sellers no longer have the luxury of “testing” high prices without consequence. Strategy matters here.

Pierce County Snapshot (Residential + Condos)

Pierce County is also seeing rising inventory, though pricing has remained comparatively steady.

  • Active Listings: 1,713
    Up 21.9% year over year

  • New Listings: 998
    Up slightly year over year

  • Pending Sales: 912
    Down 5.0% year over year

  • Closed Sales: 608
    Down 3.2% year over year

  • Median Sales Price: $550,000
    Down 1.3% year over year

  • Months of Inventory: 2.82

Pierce County remains attractive for buyers looking for value, but the days of multiple offers on every home are largely behind us — at least for now

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers:
This is one of the most negotiable markets we’ve seen in years. More inventory means more leverage — but preparation still matters. Strong financing and good guidance make all the difference.

For sellers:
Homes are still selling, but the market is less forgiving. Pricing, condition, and marketing strategy must be aligned from day one. The best-performing listings are the ones that feel realistic, not reactive.

Looking Ahead

As we move closer to spring, activity typically picks up — but this won’t look like the frenzied markets of the past few years. Instead, expect a more balanced, intentional season where informed decisions win.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling in Snohomish, King, or Pierce County, I’d love to help you understand how these trends apply to your specific situation.

Local data matters — and so does local guidance.

Kim Pelham
Broker | The Pelham Group Northwest
Katrina Eileen Real Estate

Home Insurance Costs Are Rising: What Buyers Should Plan For

Home Insurance Costs Are Rising: What Buyers Should Plan For

Buying a home is one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make. And homeowner’s insurance is what protects that investment. Think of it as your safety net. NerdWallet explains it:

  • Covers Repairs and Rebuilding Costs: If your home is damaged by fire, storms, or other covered events, it helps pay for repairs and possibly even a full rebuild, if that’s deemed necessary.
  • Protects Your Belongings: It can also cover personal items like furniture, electronics, jewelry, and clothing if they’re stolen or damaged.
  • Provides Liability Coverage: And, if someone gets injured on your property, your policy can help cover medical bills or legal expenses.

But that peace of mind does come with a cost, and lately those costs have been rising.

Why Home Insurance Premiums Are Going Up

There are a number of factors causing insurance premiums to rise today. But, in the simplest sense, here’s what’s driving prices up according to the Insurance Research Council (IRC).

Severe weather events and natural disasters are happening increasingly often, leading to more claims. At the same time, homebuilding materials and labor are more expensive. So, when it comes time to work on those claims, insurers have to manage higher costs to repair or rebuild the affected homes.

That combination adds up to higher premiums. You can see how it’s climbed recently in the graph below. Each bar marks the percentage increase in insurance costs for that calendar year.

a graph of a graph showing the cost of homeowner insuranceThe good news is, the annual pace of the increase may be starting to ease according to ResiClub and Cotality. By their count:

  • In 2023 and 2024, insurance costs went up 14% a year.
  • In 2025, they rose about 10%.
  • And in 2026 and 2027, it’s expected to go up about 8% each year.

That’s still an increase, but at least the pace is slowing down. And here’s another silver lining.

While insurance costs are rising, mortgage rates are falling. And that can help offset some of this expense. As Michael Gaines, Senior VP of Capital Markets, Cardinal Financial, explains:

“Rising taxes and insurance do create pressure, but they don’t erase the benefits of a lower rate . . . A small rate improvement, paired with the right loan program and smart planning, can still make homeownership possible . . . It’s less about one factor canceling another out, and more about helping buyers layer the right solutions together.”

Costs Are Going To Be Different Depending on Where You Buy

So how much do you need to budget for this? It depends on the price point and location of house, the coverage you need, and more. And just like with everything else in real estate, costs vary by area.

You can get a rough idea of your state’s typical premiums in the map below:

So, What Can You Do About It?

Generally speaking, your first insurance payment will be wrapped into your closing costs. But after that, it’ll become a recurring expense. That’s why knowing these premiums are rising is so important. It helps you factor that into your budget, so you go in with a full picture of what you can comfortably afford.

If you’re crunching the numbers and trying to find other ways to save, here are a few tips from Insurify and NerdWallet that can help you get the best insurance price possible:

  • Shop Around – Compare quotes from multiple companies.
  • Bundle Policies – Combine home and auto for discounts.
  • Ask About Discounts – Don’t miss out on savings you may qualify for.
  • Highlight Upgrades – Features like a new roof or storm windows can cut costs.
  • Improve Your Credit – A stronger credit score can mean better premiums.

Bottom Line

If you’re thinking about buying a home, don’t forget to plan ahead for your homeowner’s insurance.

While costs are rising, knowing what to expect and how to shop around can make a big difference as you’re budgeting for your purchase. Because this isn’t coverage you’ll want to skimp on. It’s your best protection for what’s likely your biggest investment.

Why So Many Homeowners Are Downsizing Right Now

For a growing number of homeowners, retirement isn’t some distant idea anymore. It’s starting to feel very real.

According to Realtor.com and the Census, nearly 12,000 people will turn 65 every day for the next two years. And the latest data shows as many as 15% of those older Americans are planning to retire in 2026. And another 23% will do the same in 2027.

If you’re considering retiring soon too, here’s what you should be thinking about.

Why Downsize?

Now’s the perfect time to reflect on what you want your life to look like in retirement. Because even though your finances will be going through a big change, you don’t necessarily want to feel like you’re living with less.

But odds are, what you do want is for life to feel easier.

Easier to enjoy.

Easier to manage.

Easier to maintain day-to-day.

The Top Reasons People Over 60 Move

You can see these benefits show up in the data when you look at why people over 60 are moving. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) finds the top 4 reasons aren’t about timing the market or chasing top dollar. They’re about lifestyle:

  • Being closer to children, grandchildren, or long-time friends so it’s easier to spend more time with the people who matter most
  • Wanting a smaller, more functional home with fewer stairs and easier upkeep
  • Retiring and no longer needing to live near the office, so it’s easier to move wherever you want
  • Opting for something smaller to reduce monthly expenses tied to utilities, insurance, and maintenance

a graph of age groups

No matter the reason, the theme is the same: downsizing isn’t about giving something up. It’s about gaining control and choosing simplicity. And it brings peace of mind to know your home fits the years ahead, not the years behind.

And the best part? It’s more financially feasible now than many homeowners would expect.

The #1 Thing Helping So Many Homeowners Downsize

Here’s the part that makes it possible. Thanks to how much home values have grown over the years, many longtime homeowners are realizing they’re in a stronger position than they thought to make that move.

According to Cotality, the average homeowner today has about $299,000 in home equity. And for older Americans, that number is often even higher – simply because they’ve lived in their homes longer.

When you stay in one place for years (or even decades), two things happen at the same time:

  • Your home value has time to grow.
  • Your mortgage balance shrinks or disappears altogether.

That combination creates more options than you’d expect, even in today’s market.

So, whether you just retired, or you’re about to, it’s not too soon to start thinking about what comes next. Sure, it can be hard to leave the house you made so many years of memories in, but maybe it’s time to close one chapter to open a new one that’s just as exciting.

Bottom Line

Downsizing is about setting yourself up for what comes next – on your terms.

If retirement is on the horizon and you’ve started wondering what your current house (and your equity) could make possible, the first step isn’t selling. It’s understanding your options.

Let’s talk. A simple, no-pressure conversation can help you see what downsizing might look like – and whether it makes sense for you.

Real Estate Market Update | Snohomish, King and Pierce Counties

As we wrapped up 2025, the real estate market across King, Snohomish, and Pierce Counties continued a trend we have been watching through much of the fall: more homes coming on the market and a bit of softening around pricing in several areas.

Even though mortgage rates ended the year at their lowest point of 2025 at 6.15 percent, many buyers were still navigating affordability challenges. Region-wide, inventory rose compared to last year, while prices edged down slightly in some markets and held steady or strengthened in others.

Closed sales were up modestly year over year, which tells us something important:

Buyers are still active — they are just more selective and value-focused than they were during the peak frenzy years.

Below is a closer look at how December finished out in the three counties I serve most: King, Snohomish, and Pierce.

📊 County-by-County Snapshot

(Residential + Condo Combined)

Snohomish County

Snohomish County saw one of the largest increases in available inventory this winter, which created more breathing room for buyers and a bit more balance in negotiations.

December 2025 vs December 2024

Metric Dec 2025 Dec 2024 YoY Change
New Listings 427 463 ↓ ~7.8%
Total Active Listings 1,135 824 ↑ 37.7%
Pending Sales 567 645 ↓ 12.1%
Closed Sales 706 753 ↓ 6.2%
Median Sales Price $730,000 $744,995 ↓ 2.0%

My perspective

This is a market where preparation and pricing strategy matter. Well-maintained homes are still selling, but buyers have options and they are taking their time to choose the right one.

Pierce County

Pierce County finished the year on a steadier note, with more closed and pending sales than last year and prices holding level.

December 2025 vs December 2024

Metric Dec 2025 Dec 2024 YoY Change
New Listings 493 538 ↓ ~8.4%
Total Active Listings 1,666 1,347 ↑ 23.7%
Pending Sales 771 735 ↑ 4.9%
Closed Sales 799 768 ↑ 4.0%
Median Sales Price $550,000 $550,000 Flat (0%)

My perspective

Pierce has remained relatively price-stable, which often appeals to first-time buyers, military households, and move-up families who want more space at a more attainable price point.

King County

King County continues to be one of the most resilient markets in the region. Inventory increased year over year, yet values generally stayed steady or rose slightly in many sub-markets.

December 2025 vs December 2024

Metric Dec 2025 Dec 2024 YoY Change
New Listings 987 950 ↑ ~3.9%
Total Active Listings 3,159 2,506 ↑ 26.1%
Pending Sales 1,310 1,324 ↓ 1.1%
Closed Sales 1,582 1,542 ↑ 2.6%
Median Sales Price $808,500 $800,000 ↑ 1.1%

My perspective

This remains a market driven by lifestyle, proximity, and neighborhood appeal. Homes that are thoughtfully presented and priced appropriately continue to perform very well.

What I Am Noticing Working With Clients

Across all three counties, a few themes are emerging:

• Buyers are intentional. They are comparing neighborhoods, commute times, and long-term value.
• Sellers who invest in preparation and pricing strategy are seeing stronger results.
• Move-up buyers are quietly returning as opportunities open up.

This is not the hyper-competitive market of a few years ago.
But it is also not a slowdown story.

It is simply a more thoughtful one.

Thinking About a Move in 2026?

Whether you are planning to sell, buy your first home, or make a strategic move-up, I am here to help you understand how these trends apply to your specific situation and neighborhood.

Every market tells a slightly different story, and the right timing and approach can make all the difference.

Let’s talk through your plans, your goals, and your next best step.

Kim Pelham
The Pelham Group Northwest
Katrina Eileen Real Estate

Call: 425.250.9422

Winter 2026 Real Estate Guides Now Available — Stay Informed Before You Make Your Move

As we move into the Winter 2026 real estate season, many homebuyers and homeowners are asking the same question:

“Is now the right time to make a move?”

The winter market can offer unique advantages — but it also comes with its own considerations. Whether you’re preparing to buy or thinking about selling, staying informed is one of the best ways to feel confident about your next step.

That’s why I’m excited to share our Winter 2026 Things to Consider When Buying a Home guide and Winter 2026 Things to Consider When Selling Your House guide — now available through The Pelham Group NW at Katrina Eileen Real Estate.

Both guides are designed to help you understand the latest trends, insights, and expert recommendations so you know what to expect if you are considering buying or selling this winter.

📘 Winter 2026 Things to Consider When Buying a Home


Click image above to open and view the Winter 2026 Buyer Guide

The Winter 2026 Buyer’s Guide is great for:

  • First-time buyers

  • Move-up buyers

  • Renters exploring homeownership

  • Anyone planning to purchase this winter or early spring

Inside the guide, you’ll find insights about:

  • Current affordability and mortgage trends

  • How winter inventory affects the buying experience

  • Tips to strengthen your offer

  • The role of equity and long-term value

  • Steps to prepare before you start shopping

If you’re considering a purchase, this guide helps you understand what to expect and how to move forward with clarity.

🏡 Winter 2026 Things to Consider When Selling Your House

CLICK THE IMAGE ABOVE TO OPEN THE WINTER 2026 SELLER GUIDE

The Winter 2026 Seller’s Guide is designed for:

  • Homeowners thinking about listing this winter

  • Those preparing for a spring sale and planning ahead

  • Sellers who want to understand current buyer expectations

Inside the guide, you’ll learn more about:

  • Pricing and demand in the winter market

  • Why serious buyers remain active this season

  • How to prepare your home for winter showings

  • Strategic timing considerations

  • What matters most to today’s buyers

If selling is on your horizon, this guide helps you make informed decisions about timing, presentation, and strategy.

Why These Seasonal Guides Matter

The real estate market continues to evolve — from inventory levels and buyer demand to interest rate trends and affordability shifts.

These Winter 2026 guides help you:

  • Understand what is driving today’s market conditions

  • Learn how winter activity differs from other seasons

  • Set realistic expectations for timing and outcomes

  • Feel confident as you plan your next move

Real estate decisions are both personal and financial — and having the right information makes a meaningful difference.

Let’s Talk About Your Winter Real Estate Goals

Whether you’re curious, planning ahead, or ready to make a move, I’m here as a resource.

If you’d like a copy of either (or both) Winter 2026 guides — or want to walk through what today’s trends may mean for you — I’d be happy to connect.

Let’s talk about your goals and explore the right next step for you this winter.

More Buyers Are Planning To Move in 2026. Here’s How To Get Ready.

Momentum is quietly building in the housing market. New data from NerdWallet shows more Americans are starting to think about buying a home again. Last year, 15% of respondents said they planned to buy a home in the next 12 months. This year, that number rose to 17%.

That 2% increase might not sound like a big jump, but in a market where buyer demand has been cooling for the past few years, it’s a sign things are starting to shift. More people are feeling ready (or at least closer to ready) to take the leap and buy a home in 2026.

And if you’re in that camp and buying a home is on your goal sheet this year, this is your nudge to connect with a local agent and a trusted lender to start laying the groundwork now.

Planning To Move in Early 2026? Start with These 4 Steps

If you’re eager to get the ball rolling right away, here’s what to tackle first:

  1. Get pre-approved. A pre-approval gives you a real understanding of your buying power and what your payment could be at today’s rates. But keep in mind, Experian says most pre-approvals are only good for 30-90 days, so this step makes the most sense as you’re ready to get serious.
  2. Run the numbers. Look closely at all your expenses to come up with your budget. Consider what you’re spending on other bills and what your monthly mortgage payment would be once you buy. That way you go in with open eyes and you don’t stretch too far.
  3. Define your non-negotiables. Once you know the numbers work, figure out your must-haves. This includes your desired location, commute, layout, school district, lifestyle needs, etc. Getting clear on these now makes decisions easier once you start looking at homes.
  4. Choose your agent early. Look at reviews online and talk to multiple agents to find one you trust that you also click with. The right agent does more than show homes. They help you understand pricing, competition, timing, and strategy before you ever write an offer.

Thinking about Buying Later in the Year? This Is Still Your Window To Prepare

Even if buying feels like a late-2026 goal, this moment still matters. The buyers who feel the most confident later are usually the ones who quietly prepared earlier.

That doesn’t mean big financial commitments or major lifestyle changes. It just means setting yourself up so you’re ready when the timing is right. Here are a few low-stress ways to do that:

  1. Work on your credit. While you don’t need to have perfect credit to buy a home, your score can have an impact on your loan terms and even your mortgage rate. So, working to bring up your score has its perks. Paying down debt now and making payments on time can help bring your score up.
  2. Automate your savings. If you have to remember to transfer money into your homebuying savings manually, you may forget to do it. So, you may want to set up automatic transfers to drive consistency and remove the temptation to spend the money elsewhere.
  3. Lean into your side hustles: Do you have a gig you do (or have done before) to net some extra cash? Taking on part-time work, freelance jobs, or picking up a side hustle can help give your savings a boost.
  4. Put any unexpected cash to good use: If you get any sudden windfalls, like a tax refund, bonus, inheritance, or cash gift from family, put it toward your house fund. You’ll thank yourself later.

The common thread here? The right prep work makes a difference.

Bottom Line

If buying a home in 2026 is on your radar, let’s start the conversation today. Not to rush a decision, but to make sure you know how to get ready for your moment.

Because every move (whether it’s next year or later) is smoother when it starts with a plan. And if you need help coming up with one that works, let’s connect.