Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
Talk of a recession comes up every year, especially when mortgage rates, inflation, or consumer confidence make headlines. The good news is that housing experts across the board are not expecting a recession that would impact our local real estate market the way people often fear. In fact, conditions across South Snohomish and North King County continue to show stability, strong buyer demand, and healthy long term fundamentals.
Here is what that looks like on the ground in places like Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mukilteo, Mill Creek, Everett, Bothell, Shoreline, and Kenmore.
Experts See a Stronger National Economy Than Headlines Suggest
Most economists tracking the housing sector explain that while certain industries are cooling, the overall economy is still moving forward with steady job growth, wage gains, and consumer spending. Locally, our job market continues to benefit from the tech corridor, aerospace, healthcare, and logistics which helps keep housing demand resilient even during uncertain news cycles.
Housing Continues to Be a Stabilizing Force
Housing has repeatedly proven to be one of the most stable parts of the economy. Our region consistently performs well due to limited land supply, long term population growth, and strong household incomes. Even when national conversations lean toward caution, our local housing market rarely moves in the same way. Inventory remains tight and it’s not unheard of for buyers continue to compete for well presented and appropriately priced homes.
Home Prices Hold Their Value in Our Area
National analysts expect home prices to remain steady with modest growth over the next year. Locally, the data tells an even stronger story. Snohomish County average sales price rose 7.6 percent in 2024 and added nearly another 2 percent in 2025. King County saw even larger gains with average sales price rising nearly 10 percent in 2024 and climbing another 1.5 percent in 2025. These steady increases show how resilient home values are in our region. With supply far below what would be needed for prices to decline, well priced and well marketed homes continue to hold and build equity.
Consumer Confidence Is Improving as Rates Slowly Ease
As mortgage rates continue trending toward more comfortable levels, buyers are returning to the market that had stepped back earlier in the year. Locally, we are already seeing higher showing activity, more pre approvals, and stronger interest in move in ready homes. Many buyers feel encouraged knowing experts do not expect a recession driven slowdown.
What This Means for Sellers Right Now
Sellers in South Snohomish and North King County continue to have the advantage of lower competition. Even with shifting headlines, motivated buyers are still out there and are actively writing offers on homes that show well and are presented with strong marketing. Listing now positions a seller ahead of the seasonal surge that hits every year in early spring. I personally have buyers shopping that cannot find the right home for them with tighter inventory options.
What This Means for Buyers Right Now
Buyers should feel confident in the long term outlook of our region. Waiting for a recession driven drop is not part of any expert forecast and historically has not played out in our area. Purchasing while rates slowly improve allows buyers to secure a home now, build equity sooner, and refinance later if rates settle further.
Bottom Line for Our Local Market
National headlines rarely match what actually happens in South Snohomish and North King County. Experts are not expecting a recession that would disrupt the housing market and our region remains one of the strongest in the state. Whether you are planning to buy or sell, staying informed with hyper local guidance is the key to making the right move.
