Are Home Prices Falling Flat??

Well No, Home Prices Aren’t Actually Flat…

You’ve probably seen headlines saying home prices are “flat.” It sounds simple enough, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. When you dig into what’s really happening in the market, it becomes clear that “flat” isn’t the right word at all.

National Headlines Don’t Tell the Local Story

Across the country, home price growth has slowed compared to the rapid increases we saw a few years ago. That moderation makes prices appear to be holding steady when averaged together, but it masks what’s happening beneath the surface. Some areas are still seeing steady appreciation, others are softening, and many are simply stabilizing after a few years of intense swings.

That’s why it’s risky to rely on national news when you’re making local real estate decisions. Your neighborhood could be moving in a completely different direction.

Our Market Isn’t Flat — It’s Evolving

Here in the Pacific Northwest, the data paints a more balanced picture. Median home prices have stayed relatively steady in recent months, but that’s only part of the story. Active listings are climbing, days on market are creeping up, and sellers are becoming more flexible on price and terms.

At the same time, overall supply is still below what most experts consider a balanced market. That means demand is strong enough to keep values from falling significantly, especially for well-presented homes in desirable areas. In short, the market is stabilizing — not stagnating.

Why It Feels “Flat”

It’s easy to think prices have stalled when the big moves up or down are behind us. But small changes can make a meaningful difference. A shift of even two or three percent can represent thousands of dollars for both buyers and sellers.

The perception of “flatness” also comes from how quickly the market moved before. When home prices rose double digits year after year, today’s steadier pace can feel slow — even when it’s still moving.

What This Means for You

For Sellers:

• Proper pricing is critical. The market rewards accuracy, not guesswork.

• Homes that show well and are priced right continue to move quickly.

• Overpriced homes risk sitting longer and inviting price reductions later.

For Buyers:

• More homes are available, which can mean more choice and negotiating power.

• Well-priced properties in great condition still draw strong interest.

• Acting decisively when you find “the one” remains important.

The Takeaway

“Flat” prices don’t mean the market is quiet — they mean it’s recalibrating. With more balance between buyers and sellers, opportunities exist on both sides for those who understand where the local momentum really is.

If you’d like a closer look at how your neighborhood is performing, I can provide a quick market snapshot to help you decide whether now is the right time to move.