The fall market is settling into its usual rhythm, with steady buyer activity and sellers continuing to make strategic adjustments to meet demand.
This week:
New Listings: 158
Pending Sales: 212
Sold Homes: 128
Price Reductions: 167
Over the past month, we’ve seen a consistent pattern: homes that are well-presented and priced correctly are moving quickly, while others are requiring price adjustments to attract attention. Buyer activity has held steady even as fresh inventory has tapered slightly, suggesting that demand is still outpacing supply in many parts of the market.
This balanced environment is creating opportunity for both sides. Sellers benefit from solid buyer interest, and buyers have a bit more room to negotiate on homes that have been sitting for a few weeks.
If you’re planning a move before the end of the year, it’s a great time to connect and talk strategy.
Located along the Snohomish River, this town blends small-town charm with wide-open rural living just minutes from Everett and Lake Stevens. Whether you’re drawn to the historic downtown lined with antique shops and cozy cafés or dreaming of sprawling acreage properties, Snohomish offers something truly special.
A Town with Character and Heart Downtown Snohomish feels like stepping back in time — full of boutiques, bakeries, and local favorites like Snohomish Pie Company (a favorite of mine too), a must-stop for anyone craving fresh, handmade pie. You’ll find locals strolling the sidewalks, browsing antique stores, and enjoying riverfront views that make this one of the most photographed small towns in Washington.
Lifestyle and Living Options Just beyond the charming downtown, Snohomish opens up to rolling hills, equestrian properties, and hobby farms that define the area’s rural appeal. For those seeking space to breathe — and maybe keep a few animals — this is the place.
Homes under an acre hold a median price around $815,000, while larger acreage properties average close to $1,150,000, reflecting the area’s growing popularity for both convenience and countryside living.
Things to Do From morning coffee on First Street to an afternoon walk along the Centennial Trail, there’s no shortage of local flavor. You can catch an event at Harvey Airfield, visit a nearby winery, or spend the day exploring Snohomish’s many antique markets. Each season brings its own rhythm — from summer river floats to the fall pumpkin patches that attract visitors from all over the region.
Why Locals Love It Snohomish offers a rare mix: a friendly, close-knit community feel paired with easy access to larger cities and major employers. Whether you’re looking for a turn-of-the-century home downtown or a peaceful estate with panoramic views, Snohomish is where heritage meets home.
Thinking About a Move? If Snohomish sounds like your kind of place, explore what’s available right now:
If you’ve been following the market, you’ve probably noticed that while home prices haven’t dropped much, affordability has quietly improved. Since early summer, mortgage rates have eased, giving buyers in Snohomish County a little more room in their budgets.
Back in June, the average 30-year fixed rate was around 6.85% — a number that stretched buyers to their limits. Fast-forward to mid-October, and rates are hovering closer to 6.23%, according to Mortgage News Daily.
That drop may seem small, but for a median-priced home in Snohomish County, it adds up to hundreds of dollars every month.
What Falling Rates Mean for a $735,000 Home
Assuming a 5% down payment and a 30-year fixed conventional loan, here’s how monthly principal and interest payments have shifted since June:
Month
Avg. 30-Year Fixed Rate
Monthly Payment (P&I)
Difference vs June
June
6.85%
$4,573
—
July
6.67%
$4,500
↓ $73
August
6.56%
$4,460
↓ $113
September
6.26%
$4,313
↓ $260
October
6.23%
$4,302
↓ $271
That’s roughly $271 per month in savings compared to early summer — nearly $3,250 a year back in a buyer’s pocket.
Why This Matters in Snohomish County
For many local buyers, affordability determines whether they can move forward with confidence or have to keep waiting. This fall’s rate improvement may be the breathing room some buyers have been waiting for.
Even though home prices have remained steady, lower rates mean more purchasing power. That can be the difference between qualifying for a single-family home in Lynnwood versus a townhome in Mill Creek.
For sellers, it’s a moment to note too. As affordability improves, more buyers return to the market, strengthening demand for homes that are priced and presented well.
What You Can Do Right Now
Buyers: Revisit your pre-approval. Even a half-point rate change can increase your buying power or reduce your monthly payment more than you think.
Sellers: Leverage this moment. Highlight affordability improvements when marketing your home, it helps buyers visualize their opportunity right now.
Homeowners: If you’ve been thinking about moving up or downsizing, this easing in rates could help you make the numbers work.
Final Thought
Affordability isn’t just about the price tag, it’s about your monthly comfort zone. The recent shift in rates is saving buyers hundreds each month and quietly reshaping what’s possible in our local market.
If you’re curious how these numbers impact your next move, I’m happy to walk through your options and local data in detail.
You’ve probably seen headlines saying home prices are “flat.” It sounds simple enough, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. When you dig into what’s really happening in the market, it becomes clear that “flat” isn’t the right word at all.
National Headlines Don’t Tell the Local Story
Across the country, home price growth has slowed compared to the rapid increases we saw a few years ago. That moderation makes prices appear to be holding steady when averaged together, but it masks what’s happening beneath the surface. Some areas are still seeing steady appreciation, others are softening, and many are simply stabilizing after a few years of intense swings.
That’s why it’s risky to rely on national news when you’re making local real estate decisions. Your neighborhood could be moving in a completely different direction.
Our Market Isn’t Flat — It’s Evolving
Here in the Pacific Northwest, the data paints a more balanced picture. Median home prices have stayed relatively steady in recent months, but that’s only part of the story. Active listings are climbing, days on market are creeping up, and sellers are becoming more flexible on price and terms.
At the same time, overall supply is still below what most experts consider a balanced market. That means demand is strong enough to keep values from falling significantly, especially for well-presented homes in desirable areas. In short, the market is stabilizing — not stagnating.
Why It Feels “Flat”
It’s easy to think prices have stalled when the big moves up or down are behind us. But small changes can make a meaningful difference. A shift of even two or three percent can represent thousands of dollars for both buyers and sellers.
The perception of “flatness” also comes from how quickly the market moved before. When home prices rose double digits year after year, today’s steadier pace can feel slow — even when it’s still moving.
What This Means for You
For Sellers:
Proper pricing is critical. The market rewards accuracy, not guesswork.
Homes that show well and are priced right continue to move quickly.
Overpriced homes risk sitting longer and inviting price reductions later.
For Buyers:
More homes are available, which can mean more choice and negotiating power.
Well-priced properties in great condition still draw strong interest.
Acting decisively when you find “the one” remains important.
The Takeaway
“Flat” prices don’t mean the market is quiet — they mean it’s recalibrating. With more balance between buyers and sellers, opportunities exist on both sides for those who understand where the local momentum really is.
If you’d like a closer look at how your neighborhood is performing, I can provide a quick market snapshot to help you decide whether now is the right time to move.
This week showed a slight slowdown in new inventory, dropping to 177 new listings, while pending sales rebounded to 193, a good sign that buyers are still active. Closed sales rose to 162, catching up from recent weeks, and price reductions ticked up again, reinforcing that buyers remain selective and are quick to skip overpriced homes.
What This Means for You
For Buyers: We’re still seeing new homes hit the market every week, but not every property is the right fit for today’s ready and willing buyers. That creates more opportunities to negotiate on listings that linger.
For Sellers: Demand remains steady, but price sensitivity is real. Homes that launch with strong pricing and presentation are still selling quickly. Those that don’t are ending up on the reduction list.
Everett, WA is the heart of Snohomish County. You’ll find a waterfront city with history, culture, and opportunity. Known for its working waterfront, Boeing’s massive assembly plant, and a vibrant downtown, Everett offers both affordability and lifestyle options for buyers looking north of Seattle.
A Bit of History
Founded in the 1890s as a mill and industrial town, Everett grew through lumber, shipping, and rail. Today, it’s famous for Boeing’s wide-body assembly plant at Paine Field, still the world’s largest building by volume. Over the years, Everett has transformed into a diverse city full of arts, entertainment, and outdoor living.
Lifestyle in Everett
Living in Everett means variety and convenience:
Waterfront & Marina: One of the largest on the West Coast, hosting events like Music at the Marina and night markets with dozens of vendors.
Downtown Everett: Walkable with cafés, breweries, shops, plus the monthly Everett Art Walk and shows at the Historic Everett Theatre.
Parks & Trails: Forest Park’s 200 acres feature sports courts and a popular spray park, while the Lowell Riverfront, Interurban, and Mill Town Trails offer miles of biking and walking paths.
Arts & Culture: Schack Art Center and the Everett Performing Arts Center anchor the city’s creative scene.
Sports & Entertainment: Angel of the Winds Arena brings concerts and Everett Silvertips hockey right downtown.
Paine Field: More than an airport, visit the Boeing Future of Flight tour or the Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum for one-of-a-kind experiences.
Community Events in Everett
Everett Farmers Market — A waterfront favorite from May through October.
Fisherman’s Village Music Festival — A multi-day music celebration with local and national talent.
Everett Sausage Festival — A fall tradition with food, music, and games.
Holiday on the Bay — Winter festivities on the waterfront with lights, activities, and family fun.
Housing Snapshot
Everett WA real estate offers a wide range of homes, from historic craftsman bungalows to modern condos and new construction.
Median single-family homes YTD: about $715,000
Condos: average around $440,000 while many options are in the low $300,000 range.
Luxury & view homes: Along the waterfront or in the Mukilteo Boulevard area, homes can exceed $1.5M–$2M
Local Insider Tip
For the best views, head to Grand Avenue Park and walk the pedestrian bridge down to the waterfront! It’s a local favorite spot to catch the sunset over the Olympics.
Thinking About a Move?
If you’re considering buying or selling in Everett, you’re not alone. Explore the latest homes for sale in Everett: HERE
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.
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.
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
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.
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