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.

Sellers • March 18, 2026

Can You Really Sell Your Home With ChatGPT? Here’s What Sellers Should Know

by Bill Jordan

A recent news story out of Florida is getting a lot of attention after a homeowner claimed he used ChatGPT to help sell his house. According to the report, the seller used artificial intelligence to guide decisions like pricing, suggested updates, and even the marketing description. The home reportedly received multiple offers quickly and went under contract within just a few days.

It’s a headline that naturally gets people thinking.

Can you really sell your home using AI instead of working with an agent?

The answer is not as simple as it sounds.

AI Is Already Being Used in Real Estate

Artificial intelligence is not new to real estate. In fact, many agents are already using AI tools behind the scenes to improve marketing and streamline the process.

AI can help with:

• generating listing descriptions
• brainstorming marketing strategies
• summarizing market trends
• creating social media content
• organizing and analyzing data

Used correctly, these tools can absolutely improve how a home is marketed and presented.

But AI is still just that. A tool.

AI Can Help Analyze Data But It Is Not the Data Source

One of the biggest misconceptions is that AI can replace the need for accurate market data.

In reality, AI is not the source of real estate data. It relies on information that is provided to it or publicly available, which may not always be current or specific to your neighborhood.

Home pricing depends on real time, hyper local data like:

• recent comparable sales
• active and pending listings
• price reductions and market trends

That information comes from the MLS and verified local records.

AI can help interpret and summarize data, but it does not replace the need to verify the source of that data.

Simply put, AI is only as good as the information it is given. If the data is off, the recommendations will be too.

What AI Cannot Do

Selling a home involves much more than creating a listing or analyzing numbers.

AI cannot:

• walk through your home and identify what today’s buyers will notice
• create a pricing strategy based on nuanced, hyper local trends
• generate competition between buyers in a multiple offer situation
• negotiate terms, timelines, or repairs
• guide you through inspection findings or appraisal challenges
• manage the moving parts of a transaction from contract to closing

These are the moments where experience matters most, and where the right strategy can directly impact your bottom line.

The Part the Headlines Don’t Show

While this story has gained attention, there’s limited detailed reporting on the full process behind the sale. And in real estate, those behind the scenes details often matter more than the headline itself.

Was the pricing based on accurate, local comparable sales?
Was there any professional guidance involved along the way?
How was the home actually exposed to buyers?

Those are the factors that truly drive results, and they are often left out of simplified headlines.

The Real Takeaway

The takeaway is not that artificial intelligence is replacing real estate professionals.

It’s that the professionals who understand how to use tools like AI effectively will have an advantage.

AI can help analyze information faster and enhance marketing. But successful home sales still come down to:

• accurate pricing
• strong negotiation
• local market expertise
• proven strategy

Technology is changing real estate, but expertise still matters.

Thinking About Selling?

If you’re considering selling your home and want a strategy that combines local expertise, proven marketing, and modern tools, I’d be happy to walk you through what that looks like in today’s market.

Buyers and Sellers • March 16, 2026

Weekly Market Update – March 9th through March 15th

by Bill Jordan

This Week’s Stats

New Listings: 200 ↑ (last week: 188)

Pending Sales: 180 ↓ (last week: 193)

Closed Sales: 130 ↑ (last week: 122)

Price Reductions: 116 ↑ (last week: 115)

Weekly Trend Overview

The local market is showing classic spring expansion as we hit a new milestone for inventory. For the first time in several weeks, new listings reached the 200 mark, showing that homeowners in areas like Edmonds, Lynnwood, and Mukilteo are feeling more confident about entering the market. While pending sales saw a slight dip compared to last week’s high, the overall volume remains strong, keeping pace with the new influx of homes.

We are seeing a healthy balance between supply and demand right now. The increase in closed sales reflects the strong contract activity we witnessed in February, while the marginal rise in price reductions reminds us that buyers are still being disciplined. They are willing to engage, but they are clearly favoring homes that are move-in ready and priced accurately for the current interest rate environment.

In South Snohomish and North King County, the “lock-in effect” seems to be easing slightly as more sellers realize that demand remains robust despite higher rates. This transition is creating a more fluid market where buyers actually have choices, a significant shift from the extreme scarcity we have seen in previous spring seasons.

What This Means for You

Buyers

The jump to 200 new listings is a win for your purchasing power. More inventory generally means less intense bidding wars on every single property, though the most desirable homes in Shoreline or Bothell still move very quickly. With more options on the table, you have a better opportunity to find a home that fits your needs without feeling forced to waive every contingency.

Sellers

With more neighbors putting their signs in the yard, your property needs to stand out more than it did a month ago. The rise in price reductions is a sign that the market is self-correcting for over-ambitious pricing. To secure a solid offer quickly, focus on “market-ready” condition and a pricing strategy that invites multiple viewers in the first weekend rather than testing the ceiling and waiting.

If you would like a deeper dive into the specific activity in your neighborhood or a custom evaluation of your home’s current value, please feel free to reach out.