Buyers and Sellers • April 20, 2026

Weekly Market Update: April 13th through April 19th

by Bill Jordan

This Week’s Stats

New Listings: 245 ↑ (last update: 189) Pending Sales: 214 ↑ (last update: 174) Closed Sales: 108 ↓ (last update: 144) Price Reductions: 164 ↑ (last update: 130)

Weekly Trend Overview

While I was away taking in the sights of Death Valley and connecting with colleagues at our CENTURY 21 ONE21 Conference in Las Vegas, the local housing market was anything but quiet. We saw a massive influx of inventory this past week, with 245 new listings hitting the market in South Snohomish and North King County. This is the highest volume of new weekly inventory we have seen so far this year, suggesting that the “spring surge” has officially arrived in neighborhoods from Edmonds to Bothell.

Buyer demand rose right along with that inventory. Pending sales jumped to 214, a clear indicator that despite the current interest rate environment, local buyers are highly motivated to secure a home before the summer competition intensifies. However, the rise in price reductions to 164 is the most critical number for us to watch. It signals that even with high demand, buyers are not willing to chase unrealistic prices. They are being extremely selective, rewarding homes that are priced correctly and bypassing those that are not.

The dip in closed sales to 108 is a natural reflection of the slightly slower contract activity we saw a few weeks back, but with over 200 homes going pending just this week, we can expect a very busy May for local closings. The overall trend suggests a market that is gaining significant liquidity; there is more to choose from, but the pace is accelerating for well-positioned properties.

What This Means for You

Buyers

The jump to 245 new listings is the best news you have had all spring. You finally have more variety to choose from in areas like Shoreline, Lynnwood, and Mill Creek. With 164 price reductions currently active, you may also have more leverage to negotiate on homes that didn’t fly off the shelf in their first weekend. It is a great time to be an active buyer with a solid pre-approval.

Sellers

The buyers are clearly out in force, but so is your competition. With nearly 250 new listings entering the market, your home needs to stand out immediately. The high number of price reductions shows that “testing the market” is currently a losing strategy. To capture one of those 214 pending sales, your property needs to be priced accurately and presented in top-tier condition from day one.

If you are curious about how this sudden surge in inventory affects the value of your specific home, I am back in the office and ready to help you navigate these shifting numbers.

Buyers • April 8, 2026

The Most Important Step Before You Fall in Love with a House

by Bill Jordan

It happens all the time. A buyer sees a beautiful home online in Edmonds or Mountlake Terrace, schedules a tour, and falls head over heels for the kitchen or the backyard view. They start imagining where the furniture will go and which room will be the office. Then comes the tough part: they realize they haven’t spoken to a lender yet, and the home is just outside of their comfortable price range.

Falling in love with a home before you have your financing in order is one of the most common heartbreaks in real estate. That is why the very first thing you should do, even before you start browsing listings, is get a clear picture of your purchasing power.

Why Pre-Approval is Your Best Tool

Getting pre-approved is about more than just knowing a number. It gives you the confidence to move quickly when you find the right property. In a competitive market like North King and South Snohomish Counties, sellers often won’t even look at an offer unless it is accompanied by a solid pre-approval letter.

Think of it as your “passport” to the home buying process. It shows sellers that you are a serious, qualified buyer. This is especially important right now as inventory levels shift and buyers have more choices. Having your paperwork ready to go ensures that you don’t lose out to someone else while you are waiting for a lender to call you back.

Understanding the Full Cost of Homeownership

A mortgage payment is more than just principal and interest. When you sit down with a professional, they help you factor in things like property taxes, homeowners insurance, and potential HOA dues. In our local area, these can vary significantly from one neighborhood to the next.

Getting this information early helps you set a realistic budget. It allows you to focus your energy on homes that actually fit your financial goals, which makes the whole search process much more enjoyable and less stressful.

No Pressure, Just Good Information

I know that reaching out to a lender can feel like a big, intimidating step. Many people worry about being “sold” a loan or feel like they aren’t ready to commit.

The truth is, speaking with a lender is simply about gathering information. I work with several preferred lenders who specialize in our local market. They live here, work here, their kids go to school here. They are local, like you! These are professionals I trust to give my clients straightforward, honest advice. They can help you review your options and answer your questions without any obligation at all. Whether you plan to buy next month or next year, they can help you create a roadmap to get there.

The Local Perspective

Our local market in South Snohomish and North King Counties has its own unique financial landscape. From the tax rates in Shoreline to the specific lending programs available for homes in Snohomish County, having a lender who understands our “backyard” is a huge advantage.

Local lenders are often more accessible and can provide the quick turnarounds that our market sometimes requires. Because they have established reputations with local listing agents, their pre-approval letters often carry more weight during negotiations.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Before you start falling in love with a house, take a moment to fall in love with your plan. Knowing exactly where you stand financially takes the guesswork out of the process and puts you in the driver’s seat.

If you are ready to take that first step, I am happy to introduce you to one of my preferred lenders. They can help you explore your options with no pressure, ensuring that when you do find that perfect home, you are ready to make it yours. Reach out to me at CENTURY 21 Real Estate Center to get started.

Buyers and Sellers • April 6, 2026

Weekly Market Update: March 30th – April 5th

by Bill Jordan

This Week’s Stats

New Listings: 189 ↓ (last week: 208)

Pending Sales: 174 ↓ (last week: 207)

Closed Sales: 144 ↑ (last week: 139)

Price Reductions: 130 ↑ (last week: 121)

Weekly Trend Overview

After a massive surge in activity during late March, the local market took a slight breather this past week. New listings dipped back below the 200 mark to 189, while pending sales followed a similar trajectory, settling at 174. This subtle cooling in new activity is not uncommon as we transition into April, but the market in areas like Edmonds, Shoreline, and Lynnwood remains very tight.

While new contracts slowed slightly, the number of closed sales reached a new high for the season at 144. This indicates that the high volume of transactions we saw hitting “pending” status in February and early March is now successfully crossing the finish line. However, the most telling statistic is the rise in price reductions to 130. This suggests that while there is still plenty of interest, buyers remain firm on their value expectations.

In South Snohomish and North King County, we are seeing a “separation of the pack.” Homes that are updated and priced for the current interest rate environment are still moving, but the increase in price reductions shows that properties with deferred maintenance or overly ambitious price tags are being asked to adjust by the market. It is a highly active environment, but one that rewards precision over guesswork.

What This Means for You

Buyers

With a slight dip in pending sales, you might find a bit more breathing room this week than you did in late March. The rise in price reductions to 130 is a signal that some sellers are becoming more negotiable. If you have been frustrated by bidding wars, now is an excellent time to look at homes that have been on the market for more than 10 days, as those sellers may be ready to talk.

Sellers

The data shows that buyers are out there, but they are disciplined. With new listings outpacing pending sales this week, inventory is growing slightly, which means you have more competition. To avoid becoming part of the price reduction statistic, focus on making your home “turn-key” and pricing it strategically to capture attention in the first weekend.

If you are curious about how these shifting numbers affect your specific home’s value or your strategy for buying this spring, I am always here to help you navigate the local data.

Buyers and Sellers • Community • April 3, 2026

Community Spotlight: Burien

by Bill Jordan

There is a reason Burien has become the go to conversation for anyone priced out of Seattle but unwilling to compromise on character. It is one of the few places left in King County that feels like a genuine, lived in town rather than a suburban sprawl of cookie cutter developments. People are drawn here because it is remarkably grounded, offering a blend of gritty, creative energy and high end waterfront serenity that you just cannot find anywhere else in the region.

The B Town Lifestyle

Living in Burien means you are likely five minutes away from some of the best food in the Pacific Northwest. The downtown core along 152nd Street is the heart of the community, where spots like The Tin Room Bar and Grill or the Australian Pie Company give the area an authentic, local soul. It is a foodie paradise where you can find everything from Oaxacan specialties to artisanal chocolate within a few blocks.

Beyond the dining, the landscape is the real star. Seahurst Park is the crown jewel here, offering nearly a mile of saltwater shoreline and wooded trails that make you forget you are only 15 minutes from downtown Seattle. Whether you are watching the sunset over the Olympic Mountains from Three Tree Point or browsing the Thursday Farmers Market, the vibe is consistently relaxed and neighborly. Plus, for anyone who travels, being so close to Sea Tac without feeling like you live at the airport is a massive lifestyle perk that locals swear by.

The Market

The Burien real estate market offers a diverse range of opportunities depending on the lifestyle you are looking for. Right now, the market is split between those looking for an approachable entry point and those seeking established residential neighborhoods.

Condos: Averaging right at $450,000, these are an incredible option for first time buyers or those looking for a low maintenance lifestyle near the transit center or the downtown shops.
Single Family Homes: With average prices sitting right around $895,000, the market for houses remains competitive as more people discover the value of this area.

Whether you are looking for the convenience of a modern townhome near the city center or the character of a mid century home on a quiet, tree lined street, Burien provides a level of variety that is hard to beat in the current South King County landscape.

Thinking About a Move?

Burien is shifting from a hidden gem to a top tier destination, and the window to get in while values are still approachable is narrowing. Whether you are looking for a view of the Olympics or a walkable condo near your favorite coffee shop, I can help you navigate the nuances of these local neighborhoods. If you are ready to explore what B Town has to offer, or if you want to know what your current home is worth in today’s market, reach out and let’s get to work.

Sellers • April 1, 2026

The “Spring Training” Your Home Needs Before Listing

by Bill Jordan

If you follow the national real estate news, you might have heard that the week of April 12 is being called the best time to list a home in 2026. It is the “Goldilocks” window where buyer demand, pricing, and market speed typically align for the best results. However, as any athlete or performer will tell you, the success you see on the big day is actually decided in the weeks of preparation beforehand.

I have many clients asking me if they should rush to hit that mid-April window. My advice is always the same: do not trade preparation for speed. In our local market in South Snohomish and North King Counties, a well-prepped home will almost always outperform a rushed listing, even if it hits the market a week or two later.

Why Preparation is More Important in 2026

We are currently seeing a significant shift in our local inventory. In Snohomish County alone, active listings are up about 50% compared to this time last year. This is great news for the market because it means more balance, but it also means buyers have more choices than they did in previous springs.

When buyers have more options, they become more selective. They are looking for homes that feel “turn-key.” Instead of rushing to list your home while you are busy with spring travel or family plans, use this time as your own personal spring training. The goal is to make sure that when your home does go live, it is the one that stands out from the growing crowd.

Small Tasks with a Big ROI

You do not need a massive renovation to get your home ready for a successful spring sale. Most of the time, the biggest impact comes from the details that help a buyer visualize themselves living in your space.

The Deep Declutter: We all live in our homes, and that means we all have “stuff.” Clearing out excess furniture and personal items makes rooms feel larger and brighter.
Curb Appeal Refresh: Our Pacific Northwest winters can be tough on exteriors. A fresh layer of mulch, some bright spring flowers, and a clean power-washed driveway make a powerful first impression before a buyer even steps through the front door.
Neutralizing the Space: A fresh coat of paint in a neutral tone can do wonders for a home’s online photos. It creates a clean canvas that appeals to the widest range of buyers.

The Local Perspective

In neighborhoods like Edmonds, Shoreline, and Mountlake Terrace, we are seeing that homes priced correctly and presented beautifully are still seeing strong activity. While the “Goldilocks” week in mid-April is a great target, the reality is that our local buying season stays strong well into May and June.

If you are traveling or have big plans over the next couple of weeks, do not feel like you are missing the boat. The most important thing is having a strategy that fits your timeline and ensures your home is shown in its best possible light. Taking an extra ten days to get the staging right or the windows cleaned can often lead to a much stronger offer in the long run.

Planning Your Next Move

Real estate is rarely about following a national calendar. It is about making a plan that works for your life and your specific property. Whether you are ready to list in two weeks or two months, the work you do today to prepare will pay off when the right buyer walks through the door.

If you would like to walk through your home and get a professional opinion on which “spring training” tasks will give you the best return on your investment, I am here to help. Reach out to me at CENTURY 21 Real Estate Center and we can put together a timeline that works perfectly for your schedule.

Buyers and Sellers • March 30, 2026

Weekly Market Update: March 23rd – March 29th

by Bill Jordan

This Week’s Stats

New Listings: 208 ↑ (last week: 201)

Pending Sales: 207 ↑ (last week: 189)

Closed Sales: 139 ↑ (last week: 110)

Price Reductions: 121 ↓ (last week: 128)

Weekly Trend Overview

The local housing market shifted into high gear this past week as we officially crossed the 200 mark for both new inventory and buyer demand. With 208 new listings and 207 pending sales, we are seeing an almost perfect one to one ratio of homes entering the market and homes being snapped up by buyers. This surge in activity across South Snohomish and North King County shows that the spring market is in full bloom, with areas like Edmonds, Lynnwood, and Shoreline seeing a significant uptick in pace.

The jump in pending sales to 207 is particularly noteworthy. It suggests that despite mortgage rates remaining a primary conversation piece, buyers have adjusted their expectations and are moving decisively on available inventory. At the same time, we saw closed sales spike to 139, which is a direct result of the strong contract activity we tracked earlier in the month. We are now seeing the full cycle of the market accelerating as we head into April.

Interestingly, price reductions dipped slightly to 121 this week. In a high velocity environment where nearly every new listing is met with a pending sale, sellers are finding the “sweet spot” for pricing more effectively. While buyers remain disciplined and selective, the slight decrease in price adjustments suggests that initial listing strategies are aligning better with current buyer appetites.

What This Means for You

Buyers

The surge in pending sales to 207 means competition is tightening. Even though we have over 200 new listings to choose from, they are being absorbed almost as fast as they hit the Northwest MLS. To be successful in areas like Bothell or Mill Creek, you need to have your financing fully vetted and be ready to tour homes the moment they hit the market.

Sellers

Buyer demand is peaking, as evidenced by the 207 pending sales this week. However, with 208 new competitors entering the field, you still cannot afford to “test” the market with an unrealistic price. Homes that are move-in ready and priced to reflect current comparable sales are the ones winning the most attention and reaching the closing table without the need for a price correction.

If you would like to discuss how these latest numbers impact your plans to buy or sell this spring, I am always available to help you navigate the data.

Uncategorized • March 27, 2026

Community Spotlight: Black Diamond

by Bill Jordan

Tucked between Maple Valley and Enumclaw, Black Diamond offers a unique blend of small town charm, scenic surroundings, and newer planned communities that continue to draw buyers looking for space and lifestyle.

If you have not spent much time out here, it might surprise you. This is one of those areas that feels a bit removed from the noise, while still being connected enough for commuting and everyday convenience.

Lifestyle

Black Diamond has deep roots as a historic coal mining town, and you still feel that character when you drive through the original downtown. Local shops, cafés, and community events give it that slower paced, neighborly vibe that is getting harder to find.

At the same time, newer developments like Ten Trails have completely reshaped the area, bringing in modern homes, parks, trails, and a strong sense of community planning.

Outdoor access is a big draw here:

Lake Sawyer offers waterfront living, boating, and summer recreation
Endless trails for walking, biking, and exploring
Views of Mount Rainier on clear days

This is a great fit for buyers who want a little more breathing room without going fully rural.

The Market

Right now, residential homes in Black Diamond are selling for just under $875K on average.

That puts it in an interesting position:

More affordable than many closer-in King County markets
Offers newer construction options you may not find elsewhere
Larger lots and community planning appeal to move-up buyers

Black Diamond continues to attract buyers who are priced out of nearby areas but still want quality homes, newer neighborhoods, and a strong lifestyle component.

Why Buyers Are Looking Here

There has been a noticeable shift toward areas like Black Diamond over the past few years. Buyers are prioritizing:

More space inside and out
Newer construction and modern layouts
Community features like parks, trails, and gathering spaces

Black Diamond checks all of those boxes.

Thinking About a Move?

If Black Diamond has been on your radar, or if you are just starting to explore areas that give you more for your money, it is worth a closer look.

If you want to talk through whether this area fits your goals, I am always happy to help you break it down and compare it to other options in South Snohomish and North King County.

Buyers • Buyers and Sellers • March 25, 2026

Controlling the Controllables: Getting the Best Mortgage Rate Today

by Bill Jordan

If you have been keeping an eye on the news lately, you have probably noticed that mortgage rates have been a bit of a moving target. One week they are trending down and the next they might nudge back up. For many of my clients in South Snohomish and North King Counties, this volatility can feel a little frustrating when you are trying to plan a move.

It is helpful to remember that while we cannot control the global economy or the daily shifts in the bond market, there are several factors within your control that can have a direct impact on the rate you secure. Focusing on these controllables is the best way to ensure you get the most favorable terms possible for your next home.

Why Rates Bounce Around

It is completely normal for mortgage rates to fluctuate. Even in the most stable years, rates rarely move in a straight line. They respond to everything from inflation reports to international events.

The key is not to get too distracted by the weekly headlines. Instead of trying to perfectly time the market which is nearly impossible even for the experts, it is much more effective to focus on your own financial preparation. When you are ready to buy a home in Edmonds, Lynnwood, or Shoreline, your individual borrower profile is what will ultimately determine your rate.

Your Credit Score Matters

Your credit score is one of the most significant tools you have to influence your mortgage rate. Even a modest bump in your score can move you into a different pricing tier with a lender, potentially saving you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan.

If you are planning to buy in the near future, it is a great idea to check your report for any errors and avoid opening new lines of credit or making large purchases on existing cards. Keeping your balances low and your payments on time helps ensure that when a lender looks at your application, they see a low risk borrower deserving of their best available rate.

Choosing the Right Loan Type and Term

Not all mortgages are created equal. There are several different types of loans such as conventional, FHA, and VA loans, and each comes with its own set of rules and interest rate structures. Depending on your down payment and your background, one might offer a much better rate than another.

Additionally, the length of your loan makes a difference. While the 30 year fixed rate mortgage is the most popular choice, some buyers find that a 15 year or 20 year term fits their goals better. Shorter terms often come with lower interest rates, though they do result in a higher monthly payment. Exploring these options with a professional helps you see the trade offs clearly.

The Local Perspective

Here in our local market, competition for well located homes remains steady. Because our area is home to so many major employers, we often see a high volume of well qualified buyers. This means that having your financing in order and knowing exactly which factors you have optimized gives you a competitive edge when you find the right house.

I work closely with several excellent local lenders who understand the nuances of the North King and South Snohomish County markets. They can sit down with you to look at your specific situation and help you decide which loan product makes the most sense for your budget and your future.

Taking the Next Step

While we cannot predict exactly where rates will be next month, we can make sure you are in the best possible position to take advantage of the market when you find a home you love. Focus on what you can influence and let the rest of the market noise fade into the background.

If you have questions about how current rates are affecting home values in our neighborhoods or if you would like a recommendation for a trusted local lender to help you review your options, please reach out. I am always happy to help you navigate these details so you can move forward with confidence at CENTURY 21 Real Estate Center.

Buyers and Sellers • March 23, 2026

Weekly Market Update: March16th – March 22nd

by Bill Jordan

This Week’s Stats

New Listings: 201 ↑ (last week: 200)

Pending Sales: 189 ↑ (last week: 180)

Closed Sales: 110 ↓ (last week: 130)

Price Reductions: 128 ↑ (last week: 116)

Weekly Trend Overview

The local housing market is maintaining its upward climb as we move into the second half of March. For the second week in a row, new listings have crested the 200 mark, showing a consistent flow of inventory coming online in Shoreline, Edmonds, and Lynnwood. Buyers have responded immediately to these new options, with pending sales jumping to 189, signaling that demand is rising right alongside supply.

The most telling statistic this week is the jump in price reductions to 128. This tells us that while there is plenty of foot traffic and interest, buyers are not acting impulsively. They are being highly selective and are quick to bypass homes that feel overpriced compared to the new wave of competition. We are seeing a market that is very active but also very disciplined.

Supply and demand are currently moving in tandem. This creates a window of opportunity where the market feels “busy” without feeling “frantic.” In areas like Bothell and Mill Creek, well-maintained homes that hit the sweet spot of pricing are pending quickly, while others are having to adjust their expectations within the first 14 days to stay competitive.

What This Means for You

Buyers

The steady stream of over 200 new listings per week gives you more leverage than you had a month ago. With 128 sellers reducing prices this week, there is a clear opening to find value, especially among homes that have been on the market for more than two weeks. You have more room to breathe, but you should still be prepared to move decisively when a high-quality, correctly priced home hits your radar.

Sellers

The increase in pending sales is proof that buyers are ready to pull the trigger, but the rise in price reductions is a warning. Your first week on the market is your best chance to capture a premium offer. To avoid being part of the “price reduction” statistic, focus on sharp pricing and ensuring your home stands out against the growing number of similar listings in your immediate neighborhood.

If you want to know exactly how these trends are impacting home values in your specific neighborhood, I am here to provide the local expertise you need.

Buyers and Sellers • Community • March 20, 2026

Community Spotlight: Arlington, WA

by Bill Jordan

Tucked between the foothills of the Cascades and the Stillaguamish River, Arlington offers that balance a lot of buyers are chasing right now. More space, more privacy, and still within reach of everyday convenience.

📍 Why People Love Arlington

Arlington continues to gain traction for buyers who want to stretch out a bit without completely disconnecting from the region.

You’ll find
• A walkable, small-town style downtown with local shops and restaurants
• Easy access to hiking, fishing, and riverfront parks
• Larger lots, shop space, and room for RV or boat parking
• A strong community feel with local events throughout the year

For many buyers, it’s the point where affordability and lifestyle finally meet.

🏡 Arlington Real Estate Snapshot

Here’s where things get really interesting and why Arlington stands out right now:

• Homes on an acre or less are averaging just under $640K
• Homes on an acre or more are averaging just over $870K

That spread tells a pretty clear story. Buyers are placing real value on land, flexibility, and usable space.

Compared to tighter suburban markets, Arlington gives you options. Whether that’s a newer neighborhood home or a property where you can actually spread out and create something long term.

📈 What This Means for You

Buyers:
If you’ve been feeling squeezed out of nearby areas, Arlington is worth a serious look. You can still find relative value here, especially if you’re open to a bit more distance in exchange for space.

Sellers:
Properties with acreage are in a strong position. If you’ve got usable land, shop space, or something unique, that’s where buyers are willing to stretch.

To see what properties are for sale, click HERE.