How to Prepare Your Home for a Winter Sale

By Kim Pelham, The Pelham Group NW at Katrina Eileen Real Estate

Selling your home in the winter might sound challenging, but it can actually be a smart move. With fewer listings on the market and more serious buyers searching, your home has a great chance to stand out when it is presented the right way. The key is to make your home feel warm, inviting, and well maintained, even when the weather outside is less than ideal.

Here is a complete guide to preparing your home for a successful winter sale.

Why Selling in Winter Can Work to Your Advantage

Spring and summer may be “peak seasons” for real estate, but winter comes with unique opportunities. Inventory tends to drop, which means fewer competing listings. Buyers who are house hunting during colder months are often highly motivated. They may be relocating for work, hoping to move before the school year, or taking advantage of timing related benefits.

By preparing your home with the right strategy, you can tap into this motivated buyer pool and make your property shine, even in the snow.

1. Start with Winter Ready Curb Appeal

First impressions matter year round, and winter is no exception. Winter curb appeal is all about safety, cleanliness, and a welcoming touch.

Keep Paths Clear and Safe

Shovel snow regularly, salt walkways, and remove ice from your driveway and porch. Buyers should not have to tiptoe to your front door. Clean and safe entry areas instantly signal that the home is well cared for.

Add Seasonal Touches

Keep decorations simple. An evergreen wreath, clean doormat, or soft white string lights can add charm without feeling cluttered or overly personal.

Showcase Outdoor Lighting

Shorter days mean exterior lighting is even more important. Check that pathway lights, porch bulbs, and entry fixtures are all bright and functional. Warm toned bulbs help create an inviting glow.

2. Create a Warm and Welcoming Interior

Buyers stepping in from the cold should instantly feel comfortable and at home.

Set the Right Temperature

Keep the thermostat at a comfortable level, around 70 degrees during showings. A warm interior encourages buyers to linger and explore the home.

Use Lighting Strategically

Winter skies can be dim, so open blinds and curtains during the day. Replace burnt out bulbs and add lamps to brighten darker rooms. Well lit spaces feel larger and more cheerful.

Add Cozy Textures

Layering throw blankets, pillows, and area rugs adds comfort and helps buyers imagine the home as their winter retreat.

3. Highlight Energy Efficiency

Winter buyers pay extra attention to heating costs and comfort.

Showcase Upgrades

If you have double pane windows, added insulation, recent HVAC servicing, or a smart thermostat, highlight these in your listing and showings. Buyers appreciate knowing the home is efficient and well maintained.

Eliminate Drafts

Seal gaps around windows and doors. A draft free home feels solid, comfortable, and move in ready.

4. Stage with Seasonal Style (But Keep It Simple)

Seasonal décor can add warmth, but it should never distract buyers.

Incorporate Warm Neutrals

Creams, taupes, soft grays, and warm wood tones photograph beautifully and make rooms feel brighter.

Use Subtle Seasonal Accents

Battery candles, winter greenery, or pinecones create a cozy atmosphere without overwhelming the space.

Choose Light Scents

Vanilla, cinnamon, or a subtle pine scent works well. Avoid overpowering fragrances.

5. Focus on Key Selling Points

Some home features become even more appealing in winter.

Fireplaces

If you have a fireplace, showcase it. Light it before showings or stage it attractively to create a focal point buyers will remember.

Mudrooms and Entryways

Buyers appreciate functional storage solutions for coats and boots. Keep these spaces clean, organized, and well lit.

Basements and Garages

These areas can feel cold and uninviting in winter. Declutter, brighten with lighting, and make sure the spaces feel dry and usable.

6. Maintain a Showing Ready Routine

Winter weather requires extra attention, but consistency makes a big difference.

Stay on Top of Cleaning

Snow, mud, and salt can quickly accumulate near entryways. Keep mats in place, vacuum often, and wipe floors regularly.

Plan Around Daylight

When possible, schedule showings during daylight hours. Natural light enhances photos and in person impressions.

Store Seasonal Gear Neatly

Bulky coats, boots, shovels, and gear should be organized out of sight. Buyers want to see space, not clutter.

7. Work with a Local Real Estate Expert

A knowledgeable local agent can position your home strategically in the winter market. They will advise on pricing, staging, photography, and buyer expectations. Winter listings require a slightly different approach, and an experienced agent knows how to make your home stand out.

8. Do Not Forget Your Online Presence

Most buyers begin their search online, so your digital presentation is critical.

Use Professional Photography

Bright, well lit interior photos are essential during darker months. A professional photographer can showcase your home beautifully even when the weather is gray.

Update Your Listing Description

Highlight comfort, maintenance, and energy efficiency. Phrases like “warm and inviting,” “move in ready,” and “cozy winter retreat” resonate with buyers in colder seasons.

Conclusion: Turn Winter Into an Opportunity

Selling your home in winter does not have to mean settling for less. With thoughtful preparation and strategic presentation, your property can stand out to serious buyers even when the temperatures drop.

By focusing on warmth, safety, efficiency, and curb appeal, you create a home that feels welcoming and well cared for. With fewer listings competing for attention, your efforts can result in faster offers and smoother negotiations.

If you are considering selling your home this winter, I would be honored to guide you.

Kim Pelham
The Pelham Group NW
Katrina Eileen Real Estate
Your Snohomish County Real Estate Specialist

Snohomish County Real Estate Market Snapshot | October 2025 Recap

Snohomish County Real Estate Market Snapshot | October 2025

A Year-Over-Year Look: More Options, Steady Prices

October’s real estate numbers tell an encouraging story for Snohomish County homeowners and buyers. Mortgage rates dipped to an average of 6.17% for 30-year fixed loans, the lowest level since early October 2024, giving buyers a little breathing room and creating more balanced market conditions.

Across the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS), active listings rose 27% year-over-year, while sales and median prices slipped slightly—down 4% and 1.5%, respectively. But Snohomish County continues to show its resilience, with stronger inventory levels and prices holding relatively firm despite shifting conditions.

Snohomish County Market Highlights – October 2025 vs. October 2024

For residential and condominium homes combined, here’s how the market performed year-over-year:

  • New Listings: 1,106 new homes hit the market in October, up 5.2% from last year’s 1,051.

  • Active Listings: 2,010 homes were actively listed, a 42.1% increase from 1,414 in October 2024 — giving buyers more opportunities to find the right home.

  • Pending Sales: 921 homes went under contract, a 6.9% decrease from last year’s 990 — signaling that buyers are taking more time to make decisions as affordability adjusts.

  • Closed Sales: 840 homes sold in October, down 9.4% year-over-year from 927, showing a modest slowdown in closings as inventory expands.

  • Median Sold Price: The median sold price in Snohomish County was $739,500, just 1.8% lower than last October’s $753,000 — a sign that pricing remains stable even as more homes hit the market.

  • Months of Inventory: At 2.4 months, we’re still sitting comfortably in balanced market territory, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

Kim’s Take on the Market

The Snohomish County market continues to find its balance. More listings and stable prices mean buyers finally have choices — something we haven’t seen much of in the past few years.

For sellers, that means pricing and presentation are more important than ever. Homes that show well and are priced correctly are still moving quickly, while others are taking a bit more time to find their match.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling, this is a great moment to take a closer look at your goals. With more inventory available and interest rates beginning to ease, we’re entering a season of opportunity for both sides of the market.

📞 Call or text me at (206) 612-5438 or email Kim@ThePelhamGroupNW.com

I’d love to help you understand what these trends mean for your home and your next move.

Snohomish County Market Snapshot | October 2024 vs. October 2025

Metric Oct 2024 Oct 2025 % Change
New Listings 1,051 1,106 +5.2%
Active Listings 1,414 2,010 +42.1%
Pending Sales 990 921 -6.9%
Closed Sales 927 840 -9.4%
Median Sold Price $753,000 $739,500 -1.8%
Months of Inventory 2.0 2.4 +20%

The Pros and Cons of Buying a Home in the Off-Season

When most people think about buying a home, they picture spring and summer — the “peak” real estate seasons. The weather is warm, lawns are green, and inventory is high. But what about fall and winter? While often labeled the off-season, these months can offer unique advantages — and a few challenges — for buyers.

If you’re wondering whether to jump into the market during the cooler months, here’s a deep dive into the pros and cons of buying a home in the off-season — and how to make the most of this often-overlooked opportunity.

Why Timing Matters in Real Estate

Real estate is cyclical, influenced by weather, school schedules, and market behavior. The majority of listings hit the market in spring and early summer, creating competition among buyers. But when fall and winter arrive, the pace slows down.

This shift doesn’t mean the opportunities disappear — in fact, some of the best deals and most flexible negotiations happen when everyone else is waiting for spring. Understanding what to expect can help you decide whether the off-season aligns with your goals and priorities.

The Pros of Buying in the Off-Season

1. Less Competition from Other Buyers
One of the biggest advantages of buying in the off-season is having fewer buyers to compete with.

In peak months, desirable homes can receive multiple offers within days, often driving prices above asking. During the off-season, there are typically fewer active buyers, meaning less pressure and more time to make thoughtful decisions.

You’re less likely to face bidding wars and more likely to have your offer seriously considered — even if it’s slightly below the asking price.

2. Motivated Sellers and Potential for Better Deals
Sellers who list their homes in the off-season usually have a strong reason to move — whether it’s a job relocation, financial need, or timing around the holidays.

This motivation often translates into more flexibility during negotiations. You may find sellers willing to adjust their asking price, cover closing costs, or include extra incentives to close the deal.

While not every listing will be discounted, the off-season environment tends to favor buyers who are ready to act with confidence and preparation.

3. Faster Closings and Smoother Transactions
Because fewer homes are being bought and sold, everyone involved in the process — from lenders to inspectors to appraisers — has more availability.

That can lead to faster turnaround times and smoother closings. In busy months, it’s common to face scheduling delays or backlogs. During slower seasons, your loan may process faster, and inspection appointments can be booked quickly.

For buyers on a tight timeline, the off-season can offer welcome efficiency.

4. Realistic Home Insights
Winter weather has a way of revealing a home’s true condition. Drafty windows, heating inefficiencies, poor insulation, or water drainage issues become more noticeable when temperatures drop.

Buying in the off-season lets you see how a property performs when it’s put to the test — something that’s harder to assess during sunny spring showings.

If a home feels warm, dry, and comfortable in January, it’s likely well-maintained year-round.

5. Potential for Lower Prices
While real estate prices depend on local market conditions, it’s not uncommon to see slight dips in home prices during the off-season.

With fewer active buyers, sellers may reduce their prices to attract interest. Even a small price drop can translate to meaningful savings, especially when combined with lower competition and favorable negotiation terms.

The Cons of Buying in the Off-Season

1. Limited Inventory
The most significant downside of shopping in the off-season is the reduced number of listings.

Many homeowners prefer to wait until spring to sell, believing their homes will show better in warmer weather. As a result, buyers may find fewer options to choose from, particularly in competitive neighborhoods.

If you have specific criteria — like a certain school district, layout, or price range — you might need to be more patient or flexible with your search.

2. Weather-Related Challenges
Depending on where you live, off-season home buying often means navigating cold, rain, or snow.

Bad weather can make it harder to attend open houses, assess curb appeal, or visualize outdoor spaces. Driveways may be icy, gardens may be dormant, and roofs could be covered in snow — making inspection more challenging.

It’s important to work with professionals who can help identify hidden issues and ensure your home inspection is thorough, even in less-than-ideal conditions.

3. Potentially Fewer Services Available
While slower seasons mean quicker appointments, they can also mean that certain contractors or services have limited winter availability.

For example, landscaping companies, outdoor inspectors, or pool specialists may not operate at full capacity in colder months. If you’re buying a home with a pool, deck, or large yard, you may need to wait until spring for a full evaluation.

4. Possible Delays Around the Holidays
The off-season overlaps with major holidays, and that can sometimes slow the buying process.

Lenders, title companies, and attorneys may operate on limited schedules, which could push closing timelines out by a few days or weeks. Planning ahead and maintaining flexibility helps ensure these delays don’t derail your transaction.

5. Less Visual Appeal
Homes simply look different in the off-season. Bare trees, gray skies, and snow-covered yards can make properties appear less vibrant.

Without blooming flowers or sunny days, it can be harder to visualize how beautiful a property might look in spring. Smart staging, good lighting, and quality photography can help — but buyers need a bit of imagination to see past the season.

Tips for Buying Successfully in the Off-Season

If you decide to move forward with an off-season purchase, a few strategic steps can make all the difference:

Work with an Experienced Local Agent
An agent who knows your area’s seasonal market patterns can help you spot hidden gems, understand pricing trends, and negotiate effectively.

Get Pre-Approved Early
Even though the market is slower, motivated sellers prefer buyers who are ready to move quickly. Having a pre-approval letter shows you’re serious — and can strengthen your offer.

Don’t Overlook Maintenance
Ask for maintenance records, especially for heating systems, roofs, and insulation. Winter conditions can expose issues that need attention before you move in.

Be Flexible
You may need to compromise on certain features or locations due to limited inventory. Stay open-minded — the right home may not look “perfect” in winter, but it could be a great fit long-term.

Is the Off-Season Right for You?

Ultimately, deciding whether to buy in the off-season depends on your priorities.

If you value selection and don’t mind competing, waiting for spring might make sense. But if you’re eager to move, looking for potential savings, or want a smoother process, the off-season can be a golden opportunity.

It’s also worth considering your local market — in some regions, “off-season” dynamics are less pronounced. Warm climates or high-demand cities often maintain steady year-round activity.

Conclusion: Don’t Let the Calendar Limit Your Home Search

Buying in the off-season comes with both advantages and challenges. You’ll face fewer listings and maybe a few snowflakes — but you’ll also find motivated sellers, less competition, and potential savings.

The best strategy is to stay informed, work with an experienced agent, and approach the process with flexibility and patience.

Ready to explore your options? Whether it’s October  or June your next home might be waiting — and timing it right could make all the difference in getting the best deal possible.

Let’s chat today 425.250.9422

 Snohomish County Market Recap — September 2025 Recap

Inventory Surges While Prices Ease — A Market in Balance

The Snohomish County real estate market is shifting toward greater balance this fall. According to the latest data from the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS), inventory is up sharply, sales activity is steady, and home prices are showing modest declines year-over-year.

For both buyers and sellers, this transition brings new opportunities — and requires fresh strategies. Here’s a detailed look at how the market performed in September 2025 compared to September 2024.

🏡 Countywide Overview (Residential + Condos)

  • Active Listings: 2,058 (up 41.7% from 1,452)

  • Pending Sales: 987 (down 1.4% from 1,001)

  • Closed Sales: 846 (down 5.8% from 898)

  • Median Sales Price: $722,525 (down 4.9% from $760,000)

  • Months of Inventory: 2.43

📌 What It Means:
Buyers now have significantly more choices than they did a year ago, as active listings jumped more than 40%. Despite this, sales remained relatively steady, showing that buyer demand is still present — just more selective. Meanwhile, prices have eased slightly, signaling a more balanced and sustainable market.

📈 Year-Over-Year Comparison

Metric Sept 2024 Sept 2025 % Change
Active Listings 1,452 2,058 +41.7%
Pending Sales 1,001 987 -1.4%
Closed Sales 898 846 -5.8%
Median Price $760,000 $722,525 -4.9%
Months of Inventory 1.7 2.43 ↑ toward balance

🧭 Market Insights

  • More Inventory = More Opportunity:
    With over 600 more homes on the market than last year, buyers are finding more options across all price ranges.

  • Prices Adjusting, Not Crashing:
    The 4.9% year-over-year decline in median price reflects a soft landing — not a downturn — as the market normalizes after years of record growth.

  • Balanced Conditions Emerging:
    With 2.4 months of inventory, Snohomish County is shifting away from a seller-dominated market. Buyers have greater leverage, and sellers need to be strategic with pricing.

📍 Highlights by Area

Region Active Listings Change YoY Closed Sales YoY Median Price YoY
North Snohomish (610) 364 (+88%) +22% $1,125,000 (+6.6%)
South County (730) 377 (+29%) -14.6% $739,747 (-9.6%)
Everett / Mukilteo (740) 496 (+34%) -11% $717,500 (-4.3%)
Lynnwood / Edmonds (750) 209 (+23%) -1% $640,000 (-15.8%)
Mill Creek / Bothell (760) 257 (+37%) +6% $683,975 (+5.2%)
Monroe / East Snohomish (770) 355 (+49%) -14% $630,000 (-1.6%)

🧭 Market Insights

  • More Inventory = More Opportunity:
    With over 600 more homes on the market than last year, buyers are finding more options across all price ranges.

  • Prices Adjusting, Not Crashing:
    The 4.9% year-over-year decline in median price reflects a soft landing — not a downturn — as the market normalizes after years of record growth.

  • Balanced Conditions Emerging:
    With 2.4 months of inventory, Snohomish County is shifting away from a seller-dominated market. Buyers have greater leverage, and sellers need to be strategic with pricing.

📍 Highlights by Area

🧭 Observation:
Every corner of the county saw inventory growth, with North Snohomish nearly doubling active listings.
Southern and coastal areas like Lynnwood and Edmonds are seeing price adjustments, while Mill Creek and Bothell maintained modest price gains.

💡 What This Means for Buyers & Sellers

For Buyers:
This fall market offers more selection, less competition, and the ability to negotiate favorable terms. If you’ve been waiting for a calmer market, now may be your opportunity.

For Sellers:
Homes are still selling, but buyers have options. Success in today’s market comes from strategic pricing, strong presentation, and expert guidance.

🏁 The Bottom Line

The Snohomish County market in September 2025 shows a clear shift toward balance.

  • Inventory is up.

  • Prices are moderating.

  • Sales remain steady.

Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding these trends is key to making smart moves this fall.

📞 Ready to talk strategy? Reach out today at

August 2025 Market Snapshot: Snohomish, Skagit & King Counties

The Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS) has released its August 2025 Market Snapshot, giving us an updated look at how the housing market is moving across Washington. While the data covers 27 counties, I’m going to break down the highlights most relevant to buyers and sellers here in Snohomish, Skagit, and King Counties.

Market Cooling from July

Across the NWMLS, both active listings and home sales declined compared to July. Active inventory dipped 2.7% month over month, and closed sales fell by 7.7%. However, compared to last August, we’re still seeing 30.8% more homes available, giving buyers more choices than we’ve seen in a while.

That said, demand remains a little softer, with sales falling 5.7% year over year. Median prices are holding steady, showing just a slight 0.8% increase from last year.

Spotlight on Snohomish, Skagit & King Counties

  • Snohomish County stood out with one of the sharpest increases in active inventory, up 50.1% year over year. That surge in listings is giving buyers a chance to be more selective, especially as the county’s median home price reached $755,000 in August.

  • King County continues to lead the market with a median sales price of $875,000, making it one of the most competitive areas despite the slowdown in overall activity. Inventory in King has grown significantly compared to last year, creating more breathing room for buyers who’ve been waiting for opportunities.

  • Skagit County wasn’t highlighted for record-setting growth in this report, but the broader regional trends of increased inventory and slower sales are being felt here too. With more homes available than last year, Skagit buyers are seeing options across a range of price points, while sellers are adjusting strategies to stay competitive.

What Buyers & Sellers Should Know

  • For Buyers: The rise in inventory—particularly in Snohomish and King Counties—means you’re less likely to face the intense bidding wars of the past. Mortgage rates eased slightly in August, ending at 6.56%, which may provide a bit of relief. On top of that, nearly 73% of homes listed are eligible for down payment assistance programs, making homeownership more accessible.

  • For Sellers: While demand has cooled slightly, homes are still selling, especially when priced competitively and presented well. With more inventory on the market, standing out with the right marketing and strategy is more important than ever.

Final Thoughts

The August numbers show a market in transition—balancing increased options for buyers with a need for sellers to stay sharp. Whether you’re looking in Snohomish, Skagit, or King County, this is a moment where good strategy makes all the difference.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling, let’s connect. I’ll help you navigate the data, understand what it means for your goals, and create a plan that works in today’s shifting market.

📞 Kim Pelham | The Pelham Group Northwest at Katrina Eileen Real Estate
Your local resource for Snohomish, Skagit & King Counties

Snohomish County Housing Market Update | July 2025

The Snohomish County housing market continues to adjust as higher interest rates and shifting buyer demand shape activity this summer. While the pace has slowed compared to last year, the overall picture shows a market that is balancing — with more options for buyers and realistic opportunities for sellers.

Key Numbers for July 2025

  • Active Listings: 2,136 — up significantly from 1,391 in July 2024.

  • Sold Listings: 922 — a slight dip from 930 in July 2024.

  • Median Sales Price: $765,000 — down from $775,000 in July 2024.

  • 30-Year Mortgage Rate: Averaged 6.72%, nearly the same as last year.

What This Means for Buyers

Buyers have more to choose from with inventory up nearly 50% year-over-year. This creates opportunities to compare homes, negotiate on terms, and avoid the frenzied competition of previous summers. If you’ve been waiting for a more balanced market, Snohomish County is offering just that.

What This Means for Sellers

While homes are still selling, the increase in active listings means buyers have more leverage. Sellers should focus on competitive pricing, strong presentation, and thoughtful marketing to stand out. The right preparation is key to attracting offers in today’s market.

Snohomish County Snapshot

Communities across the county — from Everett and Lake Stevens to Snohomish and beyond — are seeing steady demand from buyers seeking space and value compared to King County. Even with sales prices dipping slightly, Snohomish remains one of the most sought-after areas in the Puget Sound region.

📲 Thinking about buying or selling in Snohomish County?
Call or text me, Kim Pelham, at 425-250-9422 and let’s create the best plan for your next move.

June 2025 Market Update: Big Inventory Growth Brings New Opportunities in Snohomish County

At The Pelham Group Northwest, we’re committed to keeping you informed with the latest market insights so you can make confident real estate decisions. The Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS) just released its June 2025 Market Snapshot, and there are some key changes happening right here in Snohomish County.

More Homes on the Market Than Last Year

The biggest news? Inventory is up more than 50% compared to June 2024. There were 2,038 active listings in Snohomish County this June, giving buyers more options than they’ve seen in years.

Prices Are Holding Steady – With a Slight Dip

The median sales price for June was $775,000, a small decrease of 1.84% from last year’s median of $789,497. While this is a slight drop, prices remain historically strong, which is good news for sellers while opening opportunities for buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines.

Sales Activity Remains Strong

  • Pending sales: 1,000 in June 2025, slightly down 5.66% from last year

  • Closed sales: 963 in June 2025, down 2.33% from June 2024

  • Months of inventory: 2.12 months, still a seller-leaning market but with more balance emerging

What Does This Mean for You?

✅ If you’re buying: More inventory means more choices and potentially less competition than we saw during the ultra-competitive market peaks.

✅ If you’re selling: Prices remain strong, and motivated buyers are still actively looking.

Ready to Make Your Move?

Whether you’re curious about what your home is worth in today’s market or wondering if now is the right time to buy, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

📞 Call me today at 425.250.9422 to talk about your real estate goals and how we can make them happen together.

Community Spotlight: Lake Stevens, WA | June 2025

Community Spotlight: Lake Stevens, WA | June 2025

Welcome back to our Monthly Community Spotlight Series, where we highlight some of the Puget Sound’s most exciting neighborhoods. Whether you’re exploring new places to call home or just want to stay up to date on local happenings, you’re in the right place.

This month, we’re featuring Lake Stevens, a fast-growing city centered around its namesake lake. With stunning water views, a strong sense of community, and a balance of small-town charm and modern amenities, Lake Stevens continues to attract homebuyers and visitors alike.

🏡 Lake Stevens Real Estate Snapshot — May 2025

Here’s a look at the latest real estate trends in Lake Stevens:

  • Median Listing Price: $875,000

  • Average Price per Sq. Ft.: $386.65

  • Total Active Listings in May: 73

From lakefront homes to new construction developments, Lake Stevens offers a wide variety of housing options to suit every lifestyle.

Click to explore Lake Stevens Real Estate today!

🎉 Upcoming Events in Lake Stevens — June 2025

June is packed with fun ways to connect with the community and enjoy the natural beauty of the area:

💬 Let’s Connect

Lake Stevens is a city that blends recreation, community spirit, and exciting real estate opportunities. If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or just want to learn more about the area, I’d love to help.
📞 Call or text me anytime at 425-250-9422.

Stay tuned for next month’s Community Spotlight, where we’ll explore another incredible neighborhood here in the Puget Sound!

Inventory Climbs in Snohomish County While Sales Lag Behind


Published by The Pelham Group Northwest | June 5, 2025

The latest housing data from the Northwest MLS shows a clear shift in the local market: new listings in Snohomish County are rising faster than homes are selling, pushing inventory to levels we haven’t seen in years. For both buyers and sellers, this signals an important moment to pay attention to what’s happening on the ground.

Snohomish County Inventory Surges to Highest Level in Years

In May 2025, 1,737 new listings hit the market in Snohomish County—up from 1,541 in May 2024. Total active listings reached 1,815, a massive 64.1% increase year-over-year from just 1,106 in May 2024.

This is the most inventory we’ve seen in Snohomish County since before the pandemic, creating more opportunity for buyers who have been navigating tight conditions and tough competition over the past few years.

King County is seeing a similar shift, with a 57.7% year-over-year increase in active inventory, reinforcing that this is a regional trend—not an isolated event.

Buyer Activity Is Slower to Respond

Even with more homes available, buyer activity hasn’t caught up to the surge in listings. In Snohomish County:

  • Pending sales totaled 1,153, down 2.7% from May 2024.

  • Closed sales came in at 923, a 3.45% decline year-over-year.

While buyers are actively touring homes—NWMLS keybox activity and showings were both up in May—the higher interest rates (still near 7%) and cautious sentiment are contributing to a slower pace of actual transactions.

Prices Hold Steady Amid Market Shift

Despite the shifting balance of supply and demand, home values in Snohomish County remain strong. The median sales price in May 2025 was $785,000, which is consistent with May 2024—showing that price appreciation has paused, but not declined.

This is a positive sign for sellers: homes that are priced right and well-presented are still commanding strong values.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

If you’re a buyer, this is your moment to shop with confidence. More inventory means more choices, more negotiating room, and less pressure to rush into decisions. With over 70% of listings eligible for Down Payment Resource (DPR) assistance, there may be financial programs available to help reduce your upfront costs too.

If you’re a seller, strategic preparation is more important than ever. With more homes on the market, it’s essential to stand out—through strong pricing, expert staging, and smart marketing. The good news? Demand is still there, and prices remain steady.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in Snohomish or King County?

The Pelham Group Northwest is here to help you navigate every shift in the market. We bring local expertise, data-driven strategy, and genuine care to every client experience.

📞 Call or text Kim Pelham at 425-876-7916
📧 Email: kim@pelhamgroupnorthwest.com

Let’s make a plan that works for your goals—whether you’re buying your dream home, selling a current one, or exploring your next move.

Community Spotlight: Everett, WA | May 2025

Welcome to the first edition of our Monthly Community Spotlight Series—your go-to guide for exploring local neighborhoods, real estate insights, and community happenings. Each month, we’ll shine a light on a different city in the Puget Sound region, sharing current market trends, available listings, and can’t-miss events.

This month, we’re thrilled to feature Everett, a vibrant and evolving city just north of Seattle. Known for its lively arts scene, scenic waterfront, and strong sense of community, Everett offers a dynamic mix of urban living and Pacific Northwest charm.

🏡 Everett Real Estate Snapshot — April 2025

Here’s a quick look at what’s happening in the Everett housing market:

  • Median Listing Price: $750,000

  • Average Price per Sq. Ft.: $411

  • New Active Listings in April: 72

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about the area, now is a great time to explore your real estate options in Everett.

🎉 Upcoming Events in Everett — May 2025

Everett comes alive in May with exciting events for all ages and interests:

  • Spring Sip & Shop – May 1, 4–8 PM
    Stroll through Downtown Everett and enjoy a relaxing evening of shopping and wine tasting.

  • Everett Farmers Market Opening Day – May 11
    Celebrate Mother’s Day with fresh finds and local vendors on Wetmore Avenue.

  • Fisherman’s Village Music Festival – May 15–17
    Catch over 50 bands, including headliners Blind Pilot and The Dip, at the Apex Art and Culture Center.

  • Paine Field Community Day – May 17
    A family-friendly celebration of aviation featuring aircraft displays, food, and hands-on activities at Paine Field Airport.

  • Cruzin’ to Colby Car Show & Shine – May 25–26
    Don’t miss the 25th annual classic car show in downtown Everett—perfect for car enthusiasts and families alike.

💬 Let’s Connect

Everett is buzzing with energy and opportunity this season. Whether you’re thinking of making a move or just want to learn more about the neighborhood, I’m here to help!
📞 Call or text me anytime at 425-250-9422 for personalized insights and guidance.

Stay tuned for next month’s Community Spotlight, where we’ll feature another fantastic neighborhood in the Puget Sound area!