Community • December 12, 2025

Community Spotlight: Mountlake Terrace, Washington

by Bill Jordan

Tucked just north of Seattle, Mountlake Terrace offers a great balance of convenience, community, and affordability compared to many nearby cities. With light rail access, growing local amenities, and easy freeway connections, it continues to attract buyers who want location without giving up lifestyle.

Lifestyle and Local Highlights

Mountlake Terrace is known for its strong neighborhood feel and everyday livability. Residents enjoy quick access to I-5, making commutes into Seattle, Everett, and even the Eastside straightforward.

The city continues to invest in parks, trails, and gathering spaces, with favorites like Ballinger Park and the Interurban Trail providing room to walk, bike, and unwind. The Mountlake Terrace Transit Center and the Lynnwood City Center light rail station nearby have added even more appeal for commuters and long-term growth.

Local shops, restaurants, and nearby retail hubs in Lynnwood give residents plenty of options without feeling overly busy or congested.

The Real Estate Market

Mountlake Terrace remains one of the more approachable markets in South Snohomish County while still offering strong long-term value.

Year to date market highlights include:

• Average condominium sale price around $450,000
• Average residential home sale price just over $760,000

Buyers are often drawn to Mountlake Terrace for its mix of mid-century homes, updated ramblers, townhomes, and newer developments. Sellers benefit from steady demand driven by location, transit access, and relative affordability compared to surrounding cities.

Why Buyers Are Watching Mountlake Terrace

Mountlake Terrace checks a lot of boxes for today’s buyers. Proximity to major job centers, light rail expansion, and ongoing city improvements continue to support demand. For those priced out of nearby markets but unwilling to compromise on access or lifestyle, this city often rises to the top of the list.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in Mountlake Terrace?

If you are curious about what homes are selling for in your neighborhood or what opportunities are available right now, I am happy to help.

You can explore current Mountlake Terrace homes and condos for sale HERE!

Buyers and Sellers • December 10, 2025

Why More Homeowners Are Giving Up Their Low Mortgage Rate in South Snohomish and North King County

by Bill Jordan

For years, many homeowners felt locked in by their historically low mortgage rates. But today we are seeing more and more people across Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mukilteo, Mill Creek, Everett, Bothell, Kenmore, and Shoreline choosing to move even though it means taking on a higher rate.
There are real life reasons behind this shift and most of them have nothing to do with chasing the lowest possible payment.

Below is what is happening nationally and how it shows up in our local market.

People Are Realizing They Stayed Put Longer Than They Planned

(The graphic showing how long homeowners have stayed in their homes)

Many homeowners stayed in place during 2020 through 2023 because locking in a two or three percent mortgage rate felt like winning the lottery. The unintended result was that people put their lives on hold.
Now those delays are catching up.

Locally, I am meeting homeowners who
• Need more space than their current home allows
• Want to downsize from a home that no longer fits their lifestyle
• Are relocating for a new job or was called back into the office
• Are ready to move closer to family or easier commuting routes

Life events are starting to take priority over the monthly rate conversation.

Changes in Household Needs Are Outgrowing Low Rate Comfort

(The graphic showing reasons homeowners are motivated to move)

Across South Snohomish and North King County, the most common motivators I am seeing are
• Growing families who need more usable space
• Empty nesters who want a simpler floor plan
• People looking for multi generational layouts
• Homeowners wanting newer construction or updated features they do not have

A low rate is nice, but if the home does not fit your daily life anymore, it becomes a tradeoff that no longer makes sense.

Equity Is Playing a Major Role in Local Decisions

Many homeowners now have more equity than they ever imagined.
This is especially true here, where average home prices rose sharply
• Snohomish County up 7.6 percent in 2024 and nearly 2 percent again in 2025
• King County up nearly 10 percent in 2024 and another 1.5 percent in 2025

That equity gives sellers the ability to
• Offset the cost of today’s rates
• Make a stronger down payment
• Move into a home that better fits their lifestyle
• Maintain long term wealth that benefits them for years

Your rate matters, but your equity can reshape the financial picture in a way most people do not fully realize until we walk through it together.

Buyers Are Learning That Payment Options Are More Flexible Than They Thought

There are more tools available today than during the lowest rate years
• Rate buydowns paid by sellers or builders
• Adjustable rate options for buyers planning shorter stays
• Refinancing potential if rates ease
• Equity transfers that reduce overall borrowing needs

In our local market, these tools make a real difference. A seller who wants to move can often structure their sale and purchase in a way that feels far more comfortable than expected.

Bottom Line for Our Local Market

People are not moving because they want a higher mortgage rate – nobody really WANTS that! They are moving because their life is changing and their home needs to change with it.
And that is exactly what we are seeing across South Snohomish and North King County right now.

If you have been staying put only because of your low rate, it may be worth having a conversation about what your options really look like. Your next move might be more attainable than you think.

Buyers and Sellers • December 8, 2025

Weekly Market Update For December 1st to December 8th

by Bill Jordan

This Week’s Stats
New Listings: 103 ↑ (from 37)
Pending Sales: 136 ↑ (from 127)
Sold Homes: 119 ↑ (from 106)
Price Reductions: 97 ↑ (from 51)

Weekly Trend Overview

Activity bounced back across South Snohomish and North King Counties now that the Thanksgiving holiday pause is behind us. New listings jumped to 103 which brought some much needed fresh options to the market. Buyers responded with 136 homes going pending which is a solid increase from last week’s holiday dip. Closed sales rose to 119 and reductions moved up to 97 which reflects both motivated sellers and buyers who remain selective.

This week shows the return to normal early December momentum where serious buyers stay active and sellers who price accurately continue to see strong engagement.

What This Means for You

For Buyers
More choices returned this week which is good news as we move into the final stretch of the year. The best prepared and best priced homes continue to draw attention quickly while others still require adjustments. Staying ready with clean terms and fast decision making will put you in a strong position in this market.

For Sellers
Momentum picked back up and buyers are reengaged after the holiday break. Accurate pricing and thoughtful presentation remain essential as reductions climbed to 97. Well positioned homes are still seeing meaningful traction. If you are thinking about listing soon, this window heading into mid December can be surprisingly productive with motivated buyers still in the market.

If you want to review your neighborhood’s activity or plan your next steps, I can walk you through the trends and what they mean for your goals.

Community • December 5, 2025

Community Spotlight: Woodinville Washington

by Bill Jordan

Welcome to Woodinville Washington

Woodinville blends small town comfort with a destination feel thanks to its world class wineries, scenic Sammamish River Valley, and easy access to outdoor recreation. It is a community where people come to relax, explore, and enjoy the best of the Pacific Northwest.

Lifestyle

Woodinville is known for its inviting mix of charm and sophistication. The Hollywood and Warehouse Districts feature tasting rooms, artisanal food, live music, and walkable clusters of local shops. A signature highlight of the community is Chateau Ste Michelle, Washington’s oldest and most iconic winery. Its beautiful grounds, summer concerts, and classic tasting experiences draw visitors from all over the region and add a timeless sense of place to Woodinville.

Residents enjoy the Burke Gilman Trail, riverside parks, bike routes, and weekend events that bring the community together. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly with a strong appreciation for local craft, cuisine, and outdoor living.

The Market

Woodinville’s housing market reflects its desirability and limited availability of homes. Properties often feature privacy, larger lots, and proximity to nature while still offering an easy commute to Seattle and the Eastside tech hubs. Year to date, the average residential sales price is just over $1.5M. Buyers are drawn to the blend of quiet living, strong schools, and access to recreation. Sellers benefit from continued demand from both local and relocating buyers.

Schools and Community

Woodinville is served by the highly regarded Northshore School District. Community involvement is strong with events such as summer concerts, harvest celebrations, and wine walks that build local connection. Whether relaxing at Wilmot Gateway Park, enjoying a new release from a favorite winery, or exploring nearby trails, residents find a lifestyle that is both peaceful and full of activity.

Things to Do

• Explore tasting rooms in the Hollywood and Warehouse Districts
• Bike or walk the Burke Gilman Trail
• Visit local farms and seasonal markets
• Enjoy live music and outdoor dining
• Hike nearby forested trails and river paths

Thinking about buying or selling in Woodinville

If you are exploring homes in Woodinville or anywhere in South Snohomish or North King Counties, I would love to help you navigate the process with confidence. Reach out any time to talk about your goals and what the market is doing right now.

Start your home search

Browse available Woodinville homes HERE

Buyers and Sellers • December 3, 2025

Most Experts Are Not Concerned About a Recession and Here Is What It Means for Buyers and Sellers in South Snohomish and North King County

by Bill Jordan

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.

Buyers and Sellers • December 1, 2025

Weekly Market Update (Nov 24 to Dec 1)

by Bill Jordan

weekly market update for Snohomish County and King County

This Week’s Stats
New Listings: 37 ↓ (from 89)
Pending Sales: 127 ↓ (from 164)
Sold Homes: 106 ↓ (from 126)
Price Reductions: 51 ↓ (from 115)

Weekly Trend Overview

This short holiday week delivered a predictable slowdown across South Snohomish and North King Counties. New listings dropped sharply to 37 which is expected as many sellers choose to wait until after Thanksgiving. Buyer activity also eased with 127 homes going pending compared to 164 last week. Closed sales moved down to 106 and price reductions fell to 51 which often happens when fewer homes are coming online and sellers pause their adjustments for the holiday stretch.

Even with the softer numbers, this week is more of a seasonal pause than a shift. Activity typically picks back up once we move into early December and momentum usually grows again after the first week of the month.

What This Means for You

For Buyers
This week offered fewer choices, but that does not mean opportunities are gone. Motivated sellers who stayed active through the holiday may still be open to strong terms or creative structures. Once new inventory starts to return next week, staying prepared will help you move quickly when the right home appears.

For Sellers
Holiday weeks always show slower movement. The important thing to watch is how buyers respond in the next seven to ten days as new listings return and pace picks up. Homes that are priced accurately and presented well still outperform the rest, and buyers remain selective but motivated when the right home shows up.

If you want a quick look at how your neighborhood performed or you are planning a move before the new year, I am always here to help you review the trends.

Community • November 28, 2025

Community Spotlight: Mukilteo Washington

by Bill Jordan

Quiet coastal living, a strong sense of community, and some of the best Puget Sound views anywhere in South Snohomish County. Mukilteo continues to be one of the most sought after places to live for buyers who want coastal charm with easy access to Everett, Lynnwood, and the Eastside.

Lifestyle
Mukilteo feels like a relaxing retreat the moment you arrive. Walkable waterfront areas, cafes overlooking the ferry dock, and scenic parks create a peaceful pace of life that locals love. Families are drawn to its award winning schools and safe, neighborhood focused feel. Outdoor lovers get easy access to the water, beaches, and all the beauty of Mukilteo Lighthouse Park.

The Market
In the past twelve months, the average residential home in Mukilteo sold for around $1,160,000. Condos continue to offer a more approachable entry point with average sales just under $500,000. Homes here tend to move quickly when priced well, especially anything with Sound views or in highly desired neighborhoods like Harbour Pointe. Inventory remains limited, which keeps demand strong year round.

Who It’s Perfect For
Homebuyers looking for a quiet coastal community near major job centers
Anyone who values strong schools and well kept neighborhoods
Commuters who want quick access to I-5, Paine Field, and the Mukilteo ferry
People who want the feel of a seaside town without leaving Snohomish County

What Locals Love
Lighthouse Park at sunset
Neighborhood trails weaving through Harbour Pointe
Fresh seafood spots near the water
Beautiful golf at Harbour Pointe Golf Club
Easy proximity to Boeing, Paine Field, and the waterfront

Nearby Conveniences
Mukilteo offers a mix of local restaurants, waterfront dining, everyday shopping needs, and quick access to the amenities of both Everett and Lynnwood. Paine Field brings a boutique airport experience just minutes away, making travel simple for residents.

Thinking About a Move
Mukilteo is one of those rare communities that blends beauty, convenience, and a calm coastal lifestyle. If you are exploring homes in Mukilteo or want a better sense of what your options look like, I can guide you through the local market and help you make a confident move.

Home Search
Explore Mukilteo homes for sale HERE

Buyers and Sellers • November 26, 2025

4 Reasons Your Home Is High On Every Buyers Wish List This Season in South Snohomish and North King County

by Bill Jordan

As we move deeper into the fall and early winter market, serious buyers are still out searching across South Snohomish and North King Counties. From Lynnwood and Edmonds to Bothell, Mill Creek, Shoreline, Mukilteo, and Everett, well priced and well presented homes are attracting strong attention. Here is why your home may be exactly what today’s buyers are hoping to find.

Reason One
Low inventory is giving sellers an advantage
Even with more homes hitting the market this year than the last few years, supply remains well below what we normally see. In most of our local cities, months of inventory is still tight. Buyers know they cannot wait long when a good home becomes available, and that urgency continues to benefit sellers. If your home checks the boxes on condition and location, it immediately jumps to the top of buyer wish lists.

Reason Two
Many buyers want to move before the new year
People moving for work, school changes, life transitions, or personal milestones all want to settle into their next home before the holidays or before January arrives. This time of year brings out extremely motivated buyers. These buyers tend to come prepared with financing, are flexible on timelines, and are ready to write strong offers when they find the right home.

Reason Three
Your home’s features matter even more this season
The colder and darker months make features like updated lighting, cozy interiors, remodeled kitchens, energy efficiency improvements, heat pumps, new roofs, and well maintained yards feel even more valuable. In communities like Mukilteo, Edmonds, and Shoreline where coastal weather is common, turn key homes show especially well. Buyers pay close attention to homes that feel comfortable and move in ready with no major projects needed.

Reason Four
Local affordability trends are pushing buyers to act
While mortgage rates have eased slightly from the spikes we saw earlier in the year, buyers still want to get into a home before rates adjust again. Many are also watching local price patterns closely. With South Snohomish and North King County prices holding steady and in some areas rising, buyers are choosing to purchase now rather than wait for a potentially more expensive spring market.

Wrap Up
If you are thinking about selling, this season can be a powerful window of opportunity. Serious buyers are out there every day across the communities I serve, and the right pricing and preparation strategy can help your home stand out.

If you want a personalized look at what your home could sell for right now in Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mukilteo, Mill Creek, Bothell, Shoreline, Everett, or the surrounding areas, I am happy to help.

Buyers and Sellers • November 24, 2025

Weekly Market Snapshot – South Snohomish & North King County

by Bill Jordan

Weekly Market Update (Nov 17 to Nov 24)

This Week’s Stats

New Listings: 89 ↓ (from 130 last week)
Pending Sales: 164 ↑ (from 158)
Sold Homes: 126 ↓ (from 130)
Price Reductions: 115 ↓ (from 133)

Weekly Trend Overview

This week brought a continued slowdown in fresh inventory with only 89 new homes hitting the market. Even with fewer choices coming online, buyers stayed active and pushed pending sales up to 164. Closed sales reached 126 which shows steady follow through from recent weeks. Price reductions held strong at 115 which reinforces that buyers remain selective and sellers who miss the mark on pricing are adjusting quickly.

What This Means for You

For Buyers
New homes are still arriving each week, but the smaller pool of fresh listings means not every property fits what today’s ready and willing buyers want. The most attractive homes are still drawing attention right away while overpriced or incomplete listings often sit until the next round of reductions. Staying prepared and watching for the right match is as important as ever.

For Sellers
Buyer activity is solid, but the current market rewards accuracy. Homes that are priced well and presented well are the ones winning attention. With reductions continuing to trend high, the data keeps showing that buyers have clear expectations and are quick to move on from anything that feels out of step with today’s market.

If you want a deeper look into your neighborhood or are considering a move, I can walk you through the local trends and pricing strategy that works best right now.

Community • November 21, 2025

Community Spotlight: Kenmore, WA

by Bill Jordan

Kenmore sits along the north shore of Lake Washington and gives you a relaxed lakeside feel with fast access to Seattle and the Eastside. Life here naturally leans outdoors. The Burke Gilman Trail cuts right through town for biking and walking, and Log Boom Park is the neighborhood’s gathering spot for paddleboarding, lakefront sunsets, and weekend hangouts. The Town Square and Lakepointe areas continue to grow with new restaurants, cafés and local services, but the overall pace stays calm and community focused. Strong schools, well kept parks, and an easy to navigate layout make Kenmore especially appealing to those wanting suburban comfort without feeling far from anything.

The Market
Kenmore consistently holds strong demand thanks to its location, schools and lake access. In the last 12 months, the average home price is right around $1.2M, depending on neighborhood and level of updates. If you get lucky and find a home for sale along the coveted Lake Washington, expect to pay two to three times that amount due to limited availability and long term ownership. Inventory is usually tight, which keeps competition healthy when well presented homes hit the market. Buyers looking here often wait specifically for Kenmore because it offers both lifestyle perks and quick commute routes toward Bothell, Kirkland and Seattle.

Why People Move Here
Kenmore is a fit for anyone wanting a quieter feel near the lake while staying close to major job hubs and daily conveniences. It works especially well for buyers who value outdoor access, strong schools, and neighborhoods that feel established and anchored by local pride. Its blend of recreation, community amenities and proximity make it a standout spot on the north end of Lake Washington.

Start your Kenmore home search
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or explore your home’s value in Kenmore, let’s talk about how today’s market trends could impact your next move.To view homes for sale in Kenmore, click HERE.

Community Spotlight: Mountlake Terrace, Washington

Lifestyle and Local Highlights

The Real Estate Market

Why Buyers Are Watching Mountlake Terrace

Thinking About Buying or Selling in Mountlake Terrace?

Why More Homeowners Are Giving Up Their Low Mortgage Rate in South Snohomish and North King County

People Are Realizing They Stayed Put Longer Than They Planned

Changes in Household Needs Are Outgrowing Low Rate Comfort

Equity Is Playing a Major Role in Local Decisions

Buyers Are Learning That Payment Options Are More Flexible Than They Thought

Bottom Line for Our Local Market

Weekly Market Update For December 1st to December 8th

Community Spotlight: Woodinville Washington

Welcome to Woodinville Washington

Lifestyle

The Market

Schools and Community

Things to Do

Thinking about buying or selling in Woodinville

Start your home search

Most Experts Are Not Concerned About a Recession and Here Is What It Means for Buyers and Sellers in South Snohomish and North King County

Weekly Market Update (Nov 24 to Dec 1)

Community Spotlight: Mukilteo Washington

4 Reasons Your Home Is High On Every Buyers Wish List This Season in South Snohomish and North King County

Weekly Market Snapshot – South Snohomish & North King County

Community Spotlight: Kenmore, WA

Home

Properties

About Me

Blog

Neighborhood News