Buyers October 1, 2025

The Market Is Starting to Give Buyers What They’ve Been Waiting For

One of the biggest things buyers are asking for right now is greater affordability. After several years of rapid price growth and higher interest rates, people want to see conditions that make homeownership feel within reach again.

Fortunately, we’re starting to see signs that the market is adjusting.


🏡 Prices Are Moderating Locally

Here in the Puget Sound region, home prices are moving at a much steadier pace compared to the double-digit spikes we saw in previous years.

  • In Snohomish County, single family homes rose about 3.3%, while condos dipped around 1.4%

  • In King County, single family homes rose about 2.6%, while condos rose about 5.1%

These numbers show that while homes are still appreciating, the gains are more modest and manageable. It’s also clear that the condo market looks very different in each county, with Snohomish seeing a softening and King County showing renewed strength.


📉 Rates Are Offering Relief

Mortgage rates have also pulled back from their highest levels. Even small improvements in rates, when paired with more moderate price growth, can make a noticeable difference in monthly payments and overall affordability.

For many buyers, this is creating a window of opportunity that simply wasn’t available last year.


Why This Matters

Every market shift impacts buyers and sellers differently. Slower growth and easing rates don’t mean prices are falling, but they do mean the pace is more sustainable. For buyers who’ve been waiting on the sidelines, this can be the opening they’ve been hoping for. For sellers, it’s still a strong market — just one where accurate pricing and presentation are more important than ever.


Bottom Line

Locally, Snohomish and King Counties are showing steadier growth with some clear differences between single family homes and condos. If you’re considering a move, now is a great time to review your options. I’d be happy to share the latest numbers in your neighborhood and help you take the next step with confidence.

Buyers and Sellers September 29, 2025

📊 Weekly Market Snapshot – South Snohomish & North King County

This Week’s Stats (Sept 23–29):

  • New Listings: 193 ↓ (from 219 last week)

  • Pending Sales: 167 ↓ (from 188)

  • Sold Homes: 142 ↓ (from 151)

  • Price Reductions: 169 ↑ (from 163)


📉 Weekly Trend Overview

After last week’s surge, new inventory dropped back to 193. With fewer fresh homes to shop for, buyer activity reflected that shift, waiting for the right fit. Pendings dropped to 167 and closings slipped to 142.

Price reductions ticked up again to 169, underscoring that buyers are quick to pass over overpriced listings, even in a market with tighter choices.


What This Means for You

For Buyers:
We continue to see new inventory each week, but not every home is the right fit for today’s ready and willing buyers. That creates opportunities to negotiate on the ones that linger.

For Sellers:
The dip in pendings shows buyers are selective and cautious. Price reductions rose again, making accurate pricing from day one essential to avoid sitting on the market.

General September 26, 2025

🏡 Community Spotlight: Living in Mill Creek, WA

Welcome to Mill Creek

Mill Creek is a master-planned community known for its beautiful neighborhoods, excellent schools, and vibrant town center. With tree-lined streets, parks, and convenient access to Seattle, Everett, and the East Side, Mill Creek real estate continues to be one of the most in-demand markets in Snohomish County.


A Bit of History

Incorporated in 1983, Mill Creek was one of the first master-planned communities in Washington. Originally centered around the Mill Creek Country Club and golf course, the city has grown into a thriving community of more than 20,000 residents while maintaining its suburban charm.


Lifestyle in Mill Creek

Mill Creek is designed for convenience and community:

  • Town Center: A walkable hub of restaurants, shops, and services that serves as the heart of the community.

  • Golf Course Living: The Mill Creek Country Club is a centerpiece of the community, offering golf, dining, and social activities in a beautifully maintained setting.

  • Outdoor Recreation: Miles of trails, the Mill Creek Sports Park, and easy access to the Snohomish River Valley.

  • Commute Advantage: Close to I-5 and Highway 9 with quick access to Everett, Seattle, and Bellevue job centers.

  • Schools: Part of the highly regarded Everett School District, making it a popular choice for families.


Community Events in Mill Creek

  • Mill Creek Festival & Street Fair — A summer tradition with music, food vendors, and local artisans.

  • Summer Concert Series — Family-friendly music events in the Town Center.

  • Santa Parade & Tree Lighting — A festive holiday favorite every winter.

  • Run of the Mill 5K — A popular community race benefiting local charities.


Housing Snapshot

Mill Creek WA real estate is known for its well-kept neighborhoods, golf course properties, and modern homes.

  • Median single-family home prices YTD: just north of $1,110,000

  • Condos and townhomes: generally range from $560,000 to $900,000, with premium pricing for those located along the golf course.

  • Luxury homes: Golf course and greenbelt homes can exceed $1.5M, offering space and premium amenities.


Local Insider Tip

Grab a coffee and take a stroll through Mill Creek Town Center on a Saturday morning — the atmosphere is lively, walkable, and gives you the true feel of the community. You may even spot me personally at the Mill Creek Cars and Coffee meetup on Saturday mornings.


Thinking About a Move?

If you’re considering buying or selling in Mill Creek, you’re not alone. Explore the latest homes for sale in Mill Creek: HERE

Buyers September 24, 2025

Starter Home vs Forever Home: Which Strategy Makes Sense in Today’s Seattle Market?

When buyers start their home search, one of the biggest questions is whether to buy a starter home now or hold out for a forever home. In a competitive market like the greater Seattle and Snohomish County area, this decision can shape your finances and lifestyle for years. Let’s look at both strategies, along with a middle-ground option that’s gaining traction.


What Defines a Starter Home?

A starter home is usually smaller, more affordable, and not intended to be your “forever” property. In our area, think of a two-bedroom rambler in Mountlake Terrace, a townhome in Everett, or a 1960s split-level in Lynnwood. These homes might not check every box, but they allow buyers to build equity sooner instead of renting.

Pros of Buying a Starter Home Now

  • Lower entry price compared to larger homes

  • Builds equity that can be used later to “trade up”

  • Gets you into the market before prices climb further

  • Potential to keep it later as a rental property

Cons to Consider

  • You may outgrow it quickly

  • Remodeling or updates may be needed

  • Costs of selling and moving again in a few years


What Defines a Forever Home?

A forever home is where you can envision living for decades. Think a larger home in Edmonds Bowl with water views, a 4-bedroom craftsman in Mill Creek, or a newer home in Bothell close to top schools. These will be much pricier but designed to serve long-term needs.

Pros of Buying a Forever Home

  • Avoid multiple moves and transaction costs

  • You can settle into a neighborhood long-term

  • Customizations and upgrades pay off when you plan to stay

  • Fits your family’s growth and lifestyle goals

Cons to Consider

  • Higher upfront costs and larger down payment

  • Waiting to save more can mean missing out on appreciation

  • Limited inventory at this level in many areas


The “Forever-Starter” Strategy

There’s a hybrid approach that many buyers in Snohomish and North King County are exploring: the forever-starter home. It’s a property that works now but also offers potential to grow into.

For example, a 3-bedroom home in Lynnwood that doesn’t have all of todays updates and upgrades. It’s affordable enough to buy today, and the good bones gives you opportunities for those updates and upgrades over time. This gives you flexibility: live in it now, make those improvements, and build your equity. Then when it’s time to move up, sell or convert it to a rental.


What Works Best in Today’s Market?

  • First-time buyers are leaning toward starter homes or forever-starters. With median prices still hovering near $650,000–$700,000 in our area, getting in sooner often beats waiting.

  • Buyers with strong incomes and savings may aim straight for a forever home, especially if they know they want to stay put in Edmonds, Mill Creek, or Bothell.

  • Move-up buyers often prefer a forever-starter that gives them time to transition and flexibility for resale later.


Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on your finances, family plans, and how long you expect to stay. What’s important is to think strategically, not just emotionally.

As your local Real Estate Agent at CENTURY 21 Real Estate Center, I can help you weigh the pros and cons of each approach, run the numbers for our local market, and even spot properties that could serve as great forever-starter opportunities.

Buyers and Sellers September 22, 2025

📊 Weekly Market Snapshot – South Snohomish & North King County

This Week’s Stats (Sept 15–22):

  • New Listings: 219 ↑ (from 181 last week)

  • Pending Sales: 188 ↓ (from 196)

  • Sold Homes: 151 ↑ (from 137)

  • Price Reductions: 163 ↓ (from 169)


📈 Weekly Trend Overview

The market picked up on new listings this week, climbing to 219, the highest level we’ve seen in several weeks. Buyer activity softened slightly with pendings down to 188, while closed sales rose to 151, indicating pending homes are getting closed.

Price reductions eased to 163, showing sellers may be pricing more realistically or that stronger buyer demand is supporting current pricing.


What This Means for You

For Buyers:
More homes hit the market this week, giving you more options. While pendings dropped slightly, the dip in price reductions means competition is still strong for well-priced homes.

For Sellers:
Inventory expanded, meaning more competition. The decline in price reductions is a positive sign — sellers who come out competitive are closing deals without having to adjust.

General September 19, 2025

🏡 Community Spotlight: Living in Bothell, WA

Welcome to Bothell

Bothell, WA is a thriving city that straddles both King and Snohomish Counties. Known for its historic downtown, excellent schools, and easy access to major employers in Seattle, Bellevue, and the Eastside, Bothell WA real estate continues to attract families, professionals, and investors.


A Bit of History

Founded in the late 1800s as a logging and farming community, Bothell grew with the arrival of the railroads and eventually the University of Washington Bothell campus. In recent years, downtown Bothell has undergone a major revitalization with new restaurants, breweries, and mixed-use developments, all while keeping its historic charm.


Lifestyle in Bothell

Life in Bothell offers a balance of suburban comfort and urban convenience:

  • Downtown Bothell: A walkable hub with cafés, shops, breweries, and dining along Main Street.

  • Outdoor Recreation: Easy access to the Sammamish River Trail, Blyth Park, and the Burke-Gilman Trail for biking, running, and kayaking.

  • Commute Advantage: Centrally located with connections to I-405 and Highway 522, making Bellevue, Redmond, and Seattle accessible.

  • Education: Home to the University of Washington Bothell and part of the highly rated Northshore School District.


Community Events in Bothell

  • Bothell Block Party & BrewFest — A summer favorite with live music, food, and local breweries.

  • RiverFest — Celebrating Bothell’s history, culture, and connection to the Sammamish River.

  • Fourth of July Freedom Festival — A parade, fireworks, and festivities downtown.

  • Farmers Market at Country Village — Seasonal markets with fresh produce and local goods.


Housing Snapshot

Bothell WA real estate includes everything from mid-century homes and modern townhomes to new construction developments and luxury estates.

  • Median home prices YTD: about $1,068,950

  • New construction: Townhomes and larger single-family homes are driving demand, especially in North Creek and Canyon Park.

  • Luxury market: Custom homes and properties with acreage in West Bothell can exceed $1.5M–$2M+.


Local Insider Tip

Visit McMenamins Anderson School — a historic school turned hotel, movie theater, brewery, and pool. And if you go, try the Scooby Snacks — they’re my personal favorite!


Thinking About a Move?

If you’re considering buying or selling in Bothell, you’re not alone. Explore the latest homes for sale in Bothell WA and let Bill Jordan and the Jordan Real Estate Group at Century 21 Real Estate Center help you find your perfect place to call home. You can find homes for sale by clicking HERE.

Buyers September 17, 2025

Will Waiting for Lower Rates Really Save You Money?

Mortgage rates have been on the move lately, and I have had many buyers asking the same question: should I buy now or wait for rates to drop? On the surface, waiting for a lower interest rate feels like the smart play. But in today’s market, where home values continue to rise when rates fall, the cost of waiting may surprise you. Let’s break it down:


Scenario 1: Buying Now

  • Home price: $800,000

  • Down payment (20%): $160,000

  • Loan amount: $640,000

  • Rate: 6.13%

Estimated monthly principal and interest payment: about $3,880.


Scenario 2: Waiting for a Lower Rate

Now imagine rates improve to 5.5%. Sounds great, right? But when rates fall, competition increases. More buyers flood the market, home prices will be pushed higher. A 7% price increase is realistic in that scenario based on what we saw in previous competitive markets.

  • New home price: $856,000

  • Down payment (20%): $171,200

  • Loan amount: $684,800

  • Rate: 5.5%

Estimated monthly principal and interest payment: about $3,887.


The Surprising Result

Even though the rate is lower in Scenario 2, the higher home price wipes out the savings. In fact, the monthly payment is nearly identical — slightly higher, in this case — and you end up borrowing more money overall.


Curious What This Could Mean for You?

Every buyer’s situation is unique, and timing the market is never simple. What we do know is that waiting for lower rates does not always mean a better deal, especially if prices rise in the meantime.

If you are curious how this plays out in your situation, I can run a personalized scenario based on your budget and goals. When you are ready to talk through the options, reach out and I will help you find the right move in today’s market.

Buyers and Sellers September 15, 2025

📊 Weekly Market Snapshot – South Snohomish & North King County

This Week’s Stats:

  • New Listings: 181 ↓ (from 205 last week)

  • Pending Sales: 196 ↑ (from 193)

  • Sold Homes: 137 ↑ (from 108)

  • Price Reductions: 169 ↑ (from 152)


📈 Weekly Trend Overview

After last week’s post-holiday surge in listings, new inventory eased back to 181. Pending sales picked up slightly, showing buyers are still active. Closed sales also improved, rebounding from the slower numbers we saw right after Labor Day.

Price reductions rose again to 169, which is a clear sign that buyers are being choosy and sellers who overshoot on pricing are being forced to adjust.


What This Means for You

For Buyers:
You’ve got consistent choices, and with more price reductions in play, negotiating opportunities are increasing. Well-priced homes still move quickly, but patience may pay off with deals.

For Sellers:
Buyer demand is steady, but price sensitivity is real. Homes that come out too high are winding up in the reduction column. Position your home competitively to sell faster and for the best results.

Buyers and SellersGeneral September 12, 2025

🏡 Community Spotlight: Living in Edmonds, WA

Welcome to Edmonds

Edmonds, WA is one of the most charming waterfront cities in Snohomish County. Known for its small-town feel, stunning Puget Sound views, and vibrant arts and dining scene, Edmonds combines natural beauty with everyday convenience. It’s no wonder Edmonds WA real estate is some of the most sought-after in the region.


A Bit of History

Founded in 1890, Edmonds began as a logging and shingle mill town before evolving into a cultural hub on the Sound. Today, its historic downtown, ferry terminal, and marina make it both a commuter-friendly location and a destination in its own right.


Lifestyle in Edmonds

Life in Edmonds blends coastal charm with modern amenities:

  • Waterfront Access: Stroll Edmonds Beach, Brackett’s Landing, or Marina Beach Park (and off-leash dog area!) and take in Olympic Mountain sunsets.

  • Shopping & Dining: A walkable downtown filled with boutique shops, cafes, and award-winning restaurants.

  • Commute Advantage: Easy access to I-5, Highway 99, and the Edmonds-Kingston ferry terminal — plus Sounder commuter rail directly into Seattle.

  • Arts & Culture: The Edmonds Center for the Arts, annual Edmonds Arts Festival, and thriving local galleries make this a creative hub.


Community Events in Edmonds

  • Edmonds Arts Festival — A premier regional arts event each June, showcasing local and national talent.

  • Edmonds Summer Market — A weekly farmers market running May through October with fresh produce, flowers, and artisan goods.

  • Edmonds Waterfront Festival — A celebration of boating, food, and live music each summer.

  • Edmonds Holiday Tree Lighting — A winter tradition that draws the community downtown for festivities and cheer.


Housing Snapshot

Edmonds WA real estate offers everything from charming downtown condos and mid-century ramblers to luxury waterfront estates. Reflecting the city’s strong demand and coastal appeal, median home prices year to date are around $1,090,000, while Edmonds Bowl median home prices year to date are aound $1,275,000. You can expect to pay between $2 million and $6 million for luxury waterfront views.


Local Insider Tip

Head to Brackett’s Landing North for tidepooling at low tide as it’s one of the best-kept secrets for families and nature lovers.


Thinking About a Move?

If you’re considering buying or selling in Edmonds, you’re not alone. Explore the latest homes for sale in Edmonds HERE and let Bill Jordan and the Jordan Real Estate Group at Century 21 help you find your perfect spot on the Sound.

Uncategorized September 11, 2025

Will Waiting for Lower Mortgage Rates Actually Save You Money?

Lots of buyers are wondering: “Should I wait until rates come down before buying?” The answer depends heavily on how much you expect rates and home prices to move in the meantime. Here in South Snohomish / North King County the margins can get pretty thin. Using up-to-date numbers helps show why.


Current Rate Snapshot

  • 30-year fixed mortgage rate: 6.29% per Mortgage News Daily. Mortgage News Daily

  • For comparison, many buyers have been using 7% as a benchmark “high rate” in past scenarios.


Example: $800,000 Home — Comparing 7% vs Today’s 6.29%

Let’s do the math for a typical scenario; adjust for real numbers so clients can see clearly what waiting might cost vs what it might save.

Scenario Home Price Down Payment (20%) Interest Rate Monthly Principal & Interest*
A. Using “old high-rate” assumption $800,000 $160,000 7.00% ~$4,326
B. Using today’s rate $800,000 $160,000 6.29% ~$4,107

*These are approximate monthly payments for principal + interest, not including taxes, insurance, maintenance, or HOA fees.

So in Scenario B vs Scenario A, you’re saving about $220 /month just from the lower interest rate, assuming price and down payment are the same.


But What If You Wait & Prices Go Up?

Waiting isn’t free. If you expect home prices to rise (which is reasonable in many parts of North King / South Snohomish), a rate drop might be partially or fully offset.

Let’s imagine that in the future:

  • Rate drops to 6.00% (from today’s 6.29%)

  • But home prices increase 5% in that period → price goes from $800,000 to $840,000

Then:

Scenario Home Price Down Payment (20%) Interest Rate Monthly P&I*
C. Waited $840,000 $168,000 6.00% ~$4,249

Compare Scenario B (buy now at 6.29%) vs Scenario C (wait, price up 5%, rate down to 6.00%):

  • Scenario B monthly ≈ $4,107

  • Scenario C monthly ≈ $4,249

That’s about $140/month more in the waiting scenario, plus a higher down payment.


Local Implications for Buyers

  • Today’s rate of 6.29% gives a noticeable benefit over a 7% rate, all else equal.

  • If you believe prices will increase by more than ~3-5% while rates drop slightly (to ~6.0-6.5%), waiting could cost more over time.

  • Sellers in many parts of King / Snohomish are more open to concessions now, which helps offset affordability pressures.


Bottom Line

If you find a home you like, buying now (even at 6.29%) likely beats waiting for slightly lower rates + higher prices. The savings in monthly payment might be modest, but the risk of higher purchase price often outweighs it.