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!

Snohomish County Real Estate: What You Need to Know This Spring

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

Spring is in full swing in Snohomish County, and with it comes fresh opportunity in the local real estate market. Whether you’re thinking about buying your first home, upgrading your space, or exploring investment options, now is a great time to get a pulse on what’s happening—and how to position yourself for success.

📍 The Snohomish County Snapshot

According to the April 2025 Market Snapshot from the Northwest MLS, Snohomish County saw a significant 84.8% increase in active listings year-over-year. That’s one of the largest inventory surges in the region, giving buyers far more options than we’ve seen in recent years.

  • Active Listings: 1,325
  • Pending Sales: 1,027 (↓5.95% YoY)
  • Closed Sales: 840 (↓2.44% YoY)
  • Median Sales Price: $755,500 (↑2.37% YoY)
  • Months of Inventory: 1.58

With more homes available and prices holding steady, buyers have room to explore, compare, and negotiate—a welcome shift from the ultra-competitive landscape of the past few years.

🏡 What This Means for Sellers

While more inventory means more competition, it also means more motivated buyers are returning to the market with stable interest rates and flexible timing. A well-prepared, strategically priced home can still sell quickly—especially in sought-after areas like Bothell, Lynnwood, Edmonds, and Lake Stevens.

I’ll help you:
✅ Price your home to match current market demand
✅ Stage and present your property to stand out
✅ Market it to the right buyers across multiple platforms

🔑 For Buyers: Opportunity Is Knocking

With inventory nearly doubling compared to last year, buyers have more to choose from without the frenzy. If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines waiting for a more balanced market, this could be your moment.

I’ll guide you through:
✅ Touring and comparing homes with confidence
✅ Understanding financing and down payment assistance options
✅ Making offers that are competitive yet smart

Let’s Talk About Your Next Move

I’m proud to serve Snohomish County as a trusted local expert and advocate for my clients. Whether you’re moving up, downsizing, or stepping into homeownership for the first time, I’d love to help you navigate your options and create a plan that fits your goals.

📞 Call or text me at (425) 213-8761
 📧 Email: kim@thepelhamgroupnw.com
 🌐 Explore more at www.thepelhamgroupnw.com

Let’s turn your real estate goals into reality—right here in Snohomish County.

The Future of Real Estate: How Smart Homes Impact Value

The real estate industry is evolving rapidly, with technological advancements playing a crucial
role in shaping property values. Among these innovations, smart home technology stands out
as a game-changer, influencing how buyers perceive and evaluate homes. From security
systems to energy-efficient appliances, smart homes offer convenience, safety, and cost
savings—all of which can significantly impact a property’s market value.

As more buyers prioritize smart features in their home search, real estate professionals,
homeowners, and investors must understand the implications of this trend. In this article, we’ll
explore how smart home technology influences property values, what features buyers are
looking for, and how sellers can leverage this trend to maximize their returns.

The Rise of Smart Home Technology in Real Estate
Smart home technology has transitioned from a luxury to a mainstream expectation. According
to recent surveys, a growing number of homebuyers actively seek properties with built-in smart
features. Some of the most in-demand technologies include:

● Smart security systems (cameras, motion sensors, smart locks)
● Energy-efficient smart thermostats
● Automated lighting and shading
● Voice-controlled assistants and smart hubs (e.g., Amazon Alexa, Google Home)
● Integrated entertainment systems
● Smart appliances (refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens with AI capabilities)
These technologies enhance convenience, improve energy efficiency, and add a layer of
security—making homes more appealing to modern buyers.

How Smart Homes Impact Property Value

1. Increased Market Appeal and Faster Sales
Properties with smart home features often stand out in listings, attracting more potential buyers.
Many real estate agents report that homes with smart technology sell faster than those without
because they offer ready-to-use modern conveniences. Buyers appreciate the ease of
controlling lighting, security, and climate from their smartphones, making smart homes more
attractive.

2. Higher Resale Value
Studies indicate that homes equipped with smart features can sell for a premium compared to
traditional homes. The exact impact varies depending on the type and extent of smart
technology installed, but features like smart security systems and energy-efficient devices
typically yield a high return on investment.

3. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Smart thermostats, LED lighting systems, and automated climate controls can significantly
reduce energy consumption. Buyers are increasingly interested in homes that lower utility bills,
making energy-efficient smart homes more desirable. This can be a strong selling point for
eco-conscious buyers looking for long-term savings.

4. Enhanced Security and Peace of Mind
Security remains one of the top priorities for homebuyers, and smart home technology
addresses this concern. Features such as smart locks, video doorbells, and remote surveillance
systems provide homeowners with real-time monitoring and control, making properties safer and
more appealing to buyers prioritizing security.

5. Future-Proofing Properties
As technology continues to evolve, homes equipped with smart systems are more adaptable to
future advancements. Buyers recognize this potential and may be willing to pay more for homes
that are already equipped with up-to-date infrastructure, ensuring long-term value.

Key Considerations for Homeowners and Sellers

1. Invest in High-Impact Smart Features
Not all smart technologies equally influence property value. Homeowners looking to enhance
their home’s appeal should focus on features with the highest demand, such as smart
thermostats, security systems, and energy-efficient lighting. These upgrades provide tangible
benefits that resonate with buyers.

2. Ensure Compatibility and Integration
A well-integrated smart home system enhances the user experience. Buyers prefer homes
where devices communicate seamlessly, whether through a single app or a centralized hub.
Ensuring compatibility among devices can make a home more attractive and functional.

3. Highlight Smart Features in Listings
When selling a smart home, it’s crucial to showcase its tech features in property listings.
High-quality images, video tours, and detailed descriptions of smart capabilities can capture
buyer interest and set the property apart from others in the market.

4. Educate Buyers on Smart Home Benefits
Many buyers may not be fully aware of how smart home technology can improve their daily
lives. Providing information on energy savings, security benefits, and ease of use can help
potential buyers appreciate the value of these features.

5. Keep Software and Devices Updated
Outdated technology can be a drawback rather than a selling point. Ensuring that smart home
devices are up-to-date and properly maintained will make the property more appealing to buyers
looking for move-in-ready homes.

The Future of Smart Homes in Real Estate
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) is expected to further
revolutionize the real estate market. Future smart homes will feature:

● AI-powered home assistants capable of learning user preferences and automating
tasks

● Smart energy grids that optimize energy usage based on real-time consumption data

● Predictive maintenance systems that alert homeowners about potential issues before
they become major problems

● Advanced home automation for seamless interaction between smart devices
As technology continues to advance, homes with these capabilities will likely command even
higher premiums, making smart home investments a wise choice for homeowners and investors
alike.

Smart home technology is no longer just a trend—it’s a fundamental factor influencing real
estate value. Buyers are increasingly prioritizing homes with smart features that offer
convenience, security, and cost savings. Homeowners and sellers who invest in high-impact
smart technology can enhance their property’s marketability and resale value.
Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or investor, staying informed about the latest smart home trends
can help you make more strategic real estate decisions.

March 2025 at a Glance: Snohomish County

 

Snohomish County led the charge across the NWMLS with one of the largest year-over-year jumps in active inventory—up a remarkable 83.1% compared to March 2024. This increase reflects growing seller confidence as mortgage rates have begun to ease slightly. Buyers, meanwhile, were quick to re-enter the market with enthusiasm, snapping up nearly 800 homes.

With a median sales price of $755,000, Snohomish continues to remain one of the more competitive counties in the region—second only to San Juan and King Counties in pricing.

🏡 Market Context Across the Region

King County also saw strong activity with 7,973 active listings and a median sales price of $855,000. Buyers in King are navigating a wider selection of inventory, but competition remains fierce for homes in desirable neighborhoods.

Pierce County maintained steady growth, ending the month with 3,306 active listings and a median sales price of $565,000. Pierce remains a more affordable alternative for many buyers being priced out of Snohomish or King.

🔍 What’s Driving the Market?

While mortgage rates remain in the mid-6% range (dropping slightly to 6.65% in March), they’re still higher than many buyers and sellers would like. That said, the spring market is offering new opportunities for those ready to act:

  • Sellers are finding success listing early, with more buyers returning to the market as the weather—and sentiment—warms up.

  • Buyers are being rewarded for staying engaged, especially with the growing inventory giving them more options.

And while affordability remains a concern, programs like Down Payment Resource (DPR)—now available on more than 13,500 properties across the region—are helping make ownership more accessible.

📞 Ready to Navigate This Market?

Whether you’re thinking of making a move this spring or want to explore your options as a buyer or seller, I’d love to be your local resource and guide.

Let’s talk strategy, timing, and what your next steps might look like in this evolving market.

📱 Call or text me today at 425.250.9422
📧 Or visit The Pelham Group Northwest to get started.

Market data sourced from Northwest MLS – March 2025 Market Snapshot. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Celebrating Our Best of Snohomish County Wins – Thank You!

What an incredible night! We are beyond grateful for everyone who joined us to celebrate being voted Best Real Estate Broker & Company and Best Handyman & House Painting for SMART Building Services in the Best of Snohomish County awards.

This recognition is a true honor, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of our clients, friends, and community. Whether you’ve trusted us to help you buy or sell a home, or relied on SMART Building Services to keep your home in top shape, we appreciate every one of you.

At The Pelham Group NW, our passion is helping people find not just a house, but a home—one that fits their lifestyle and dreams. Meanwhile, SMART Building Services is dedicated to ensuring those homes remain in top condition, offering expert handyman and house painting services with the same commitment to quality and care.

Our recent celebration was a testament to the strong relationships we’ve built and the community that continues to support us. Seeing so many friendly faces come together to share in this moment meant the world to us.

To our clients, colleagues, friends, and family—thank you! Your trust and support fuel our passion for what we do every single day. We look forward to continuing to serve you in the years to come!

With gratitude,
Kim & Brien Pelham
📍 The Pelham Group NW at Katrina Eileen Real Estate| SMART Building Services

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Things to Consider When Buying or Selling this Spring | New Guides Now Available.

If you’re thinking about making a move this spring or beyond, having the right information is key. That’s why we’re excited to share our Spring 2025 Buyer and Seller Guides—your go-to resources for navigating today’s real estate market with confidence.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned homeowner, or considering selling your property, these guides provide insights into current market trends, key strategies, and expert advice to help you make informed decisions.

What’s Inside the Guides?

✔ Market Trends: Get the latest on home prices, interest rates, and what to expect this spring.
✔ Buying Strategies: From securing financing to finding the perfect home, our buyer guide walks you through each step.
✔ Selling Tips: Learn how to maximize your home’s value and attract the right buyers.
✔ Expert Insights: We break down the key topics impacting real estate in 2025 so you can stay ahead of the game.

Don’t miss out on this exclusive resource! Click below to access the guide that fits your needs:

Spring Buyer’s Guide for 2025:

Spring Buyer’s Guide | 2025

Spring Seller’s Guide for 2025:

Spring Seller’s Guide | 2025

Still have questions or ready to take the next step? Let’s chat! We’re here to help you navigate the market and make the best move for your future.

Snohomish County Real Estate Market Update – February 2025

As we move into the spring season, it’s the perfect time to take a closer look at what’s happening in our local real estate market. February is typically a quieter month, but this year, the numbers tell an interesting story—one that reflects both new opportunities and ongoing challenges for buyers and sellers alike. Let’s break it down.

Market Trends: More Inventory, But Buyers Remain Cautious

One of the biggest takeaways from February’s Northwest MLS Market Snapshot is the significant increase in inventory. Across the NWMLS service area, the number of homes for sale jumped by 39.4% compared to last year.

  • Snohomish County saw a 62.27% increase in active listings compared to February 2024, reaching 947 homes on the market.
  • King County led the pack with a 52% increase, reaching 3,247 active listings.
  • Pierce County followed with 1,376 active listings, up 27.72% year-over-year.

Despite this increase in inventory, pending home sales in Snohomish County dipped 5.09%, while Pierce County saw a 1.51% decrease in pendings. King County, on the other hand, experienced a modest 1.25% increase in pending sales, signaling that buyers are still in the market but proceeding cautiously.

 

What’s Happening with Prices?

Home prices continue to be a hot topic, especially with mortgage rates hovering around 6.76%. The median sales price for residential homes and condos across the NWMLS service area rose 2.4% from January to February, reaching $630,000. However, county-specific trends vary:

  • Snohomish County’s median home price dipped 9.33% from last year, now sitting at $607,500.
  • King County prices remained steady at $820,000, showing stability despite shifting market conditions.
  • Pierce County saw a slight increase of 0.75%, bringing the median home price to $541,000.

This drop in prices in Snohomish County may present a golden opportunity for buyers who have been waiting for more favorable conditions. If you’ve been holding off due to affordability concerns, now might be the time to revisit your options.

Rising Construction Costs Could Impact Home Prices

Another factor that could influence home prices in the coming months is the rising cost of new construction. With newly announced tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, construction costs could rise 4% to 6% nationwide, with home fixtures like cabinets and appliances increasing 10% to 20%. This means new builds could become even more expensive, pushing demand back toward existing homes.

What Does This Mean for Buyers and Sellers?

  • For Buyers: More homes on the market mean more choices. While interest rates are still a factor, the decrease in home prices in Snohomish County offers an opportunity to find a home at a more manageable price point.
  • For Sellers: With more inventory available, pricing your home correctly and presenting it well are key to attracting serious buyers. Homes that are priced competitively and well-maintained will stand out in today’s market.

Final Thoughts

The real estate market is shifting, but opportunities exist for both buyers and sellers. Whether you’re looking to move, invest, or simply understand the market better, I’m here to help you navigate the changes. If you have any questions or want to discuss your real estate goals, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Let’s find the right move for you.

  • Kim Pelham | The Pelham Group Northwest

Named Best Realtor in Snohomish County – Thank You!

I am beyond thrilled and incredibly grateful to share some exciting news—I have been voted Best Realtor in the Best of Snohomish County Contest for 2024

This incredible honor would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my amazing clients, friends, and community members. Your votes, trust, and encouragement mean the world to me and my entire team.

Helping people find not just houses, but homes—places where memories are made, dreams take shape, and futures are built—is my passion. I approach every transaction with integrity, expertise, and a heart for service, ensuring that my clients feel confident and supported every step of the way.

Winning this award is more than just recognition; it’s a testament to the strong relationships we’ve built and the dedication poured into every home sale and purchase.

To everyone who took the time to vote, send kind words, and support me throughout this journey—thank you! I’m so grateful to be part of this incredible community and look forward to continuing to serve you with excellence.

If you’re looking to buy, sell, or just need expert advice on your real estate journey, I’m here for you. Let’s make 2025 another amazing year in real estate!

 

Real Estate Market Update for King, Pierce, and Snohomish Counties

As we begin the new year, it’s an excellent time to reflect on the latest real estate market trends in King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties. Despite shifts in the broader economy, the local housing market has shown resilience and opportunities for both buyers and sellers.
King County: Stability in the Heart of the Market
King County continues to be the centerpiece of the Puget Sound region’s real estate activity. In December 2024, the county saw a slight uptick in new listings and closed sales compared to the previous year. Median home prices remain steady, signaling a balanced market with consistent demand. Buyers are still looking for quality properties, and homes that are priced well continue to sell quickly.
Pierce County: Affordability Meets Demand
Pierce County has maintained its appeal as a more affordable alternative to King County. December 2024 brought moderate growth in both new listings and sales activity, with a healthy increase in median home prices. First-time buyers and investors continue to drive demand in this area, attracted by the mix of suburban charm and proximity to major employment hubs.
Snohomish County: A Significant Surge
Snohomish County’s real estate market has seen remarkable growth in December 2024, especially when compared to the same time last year:
  • New Listings: 463 new homes came to market, up from 385 in December 2023.
  • Closed Sales: A total of 723 homes closed, a notable increase from 627 the previous year.
  • Median Sales Price: The median sales price reached $775,000 in December 2024, a dramatic rise from $550,000 in December 2023.
This surge highlights Snohomish County as a dynamic market with growing appeal. The area’s combination of urban amenities, outdoor lifestyle, and relative affordability compared to King County continues to attract buyers.
Market Trends and Observations
Across the Puget Sound region, housing inventory remains tight, but the increase in new listings in Snohomish County provides a silver lining for buyers. Closed sales in all three counties show that demand remains strong, even with evolving interest rates and economic factors. Sellers are benefiting from rising home values, making it an opportune time to list properties.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
For buyers, the increase in new listings in Snohomish County offers more opportunities, but the rising prices emphasize the need for swift decision-making. Partnering with a knowledgeable real estate agent, like Kim Pelham and The Pelham Group Northwest, ensures buyers can navigate this competitive market effectively.
For sellers, the upward trend in closed sales and median home prices in Snohomish County presents an excellent opportunity. Properly marketing and pricing homes can lead to quick and profitable transactions.
Looking Ahead
The real estate market in King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties is poised for continued activity in 2025. With changing dynamics and ongoing demand, having the right guidance is essential. At The Pelham Group Northwest, we’re here to provide expert insights and support for all your real estate needs.
Contact us today to discuss your goals and how we can help you succeed in this dynamic Puget Sound housing market!