Buyers • February 11, 2026

Why Townhomes Are So Popular with Today’s First-Time Buyers

by Bill Jordan

If you’ve been watching the market lately, you may have noticed something interesting.

Townhomes are moving.

And for many first-time buyers across South Snohomish and North King County, they’re not a compromise. They’re a strategy.

Let’s look at the numbers.

1. The $210,000 Price Gap Is Bigger Than It Looks

Current averages in our market:

• Townhomes: $660,000
• Single-family homes: $870,000

That’s a $210,000 difference in purchase price.

Now let’s break that down into down payment and monthly payment.

With 5 Percent Down:

Townhome at $660,000
• Down payment: $33,000
• Loan amount: $627,000
• Approximate monthly principal and interest at 6.5%: $3,960

Single-Family Home at $870,000
• Down payment: $43,500
• Loan amount: $826,500
• Approximate monthly principal and interest at 6.5%: $5,220

That is roughly:

• $10,500 more upfront
• About $1,260 more per month

Over the course of a year, that is over $15,000 in payment difference.

That is real money.

And remember, this does not include taxes, insurance, or HOA dues. This is strictly principal and interest for clean comparison.

For many first-time buyers, that monthly gap is the difference between feeling comfortable and feeling stretched.

2. Lower Barrier to Entry Without Sacrificing Quality

One of the biggest surprises buyers experience when touring townhomes today is how modern they feel.

Across Lynnwood, Bothell, Mill Creek, Shoreline, and Mountlake Terrace, many townhomes feature:

• Open concept layouts
• Quartz countertops
• Energy efficient systems
• Attached garages
• Flexible bonus spaces for remote work

In some cases, buyers are getting newer construction at $660,000 that would cost significantly more in detached inventory.

3. Lifestyle Simplicity

Many townhome communities include HOA coverage for:

• Exterior maintenance
• Roofing
• Landscaping

For buyers who want ownership without constant yard work or large exterior repair responsibilities, this is a major advantage.

4. A Strategic Entry Into the Market

For many of my clients at CENTURY 21 Real Estate Center, the first home is not the forever home.

It is the first wealth building move.

Buying at $660,000 instead of waiting until you can comfortably afford $870,000 allows you to:

• Start building equity now
• Benefit from appreciation
• Reduce long term rent exposure
• Position yourself for a future move up purchase

Waiting for the “perfect” detached home can sometimes cost more in lost time than people realize.

What This Means for You

The payment difference between $660,000 and $870,000 at today’s rates is significant.

About $1,260 per month significant.

For some buyers, that gap makes townhomes one of the most logical and strategic options in today’s market.

If you are currently renting and want to see what this looks like based on your exact situation, we can run real numbers together.

No pressure. Just clarity.

If you would like to see what townhomes are for sale, click HERE.

Buyers and Sellers • February 9, 2026

Weekly Market Update | Feb 2 through Feb 8

by Bill Jordan

This Week’s Stats
New Listings: 135 ↑ from 128
Pending Sales: 178 ↓ from 190
Sold Homes: 87 ↑ from 69
Price Reductions: 61 ↑ from 60

Weekly Trend Overview
New listings ticked up again, adding more inventory to the market as we move deeper into the early spring ramp up. Pending sales pulled back slightly from last week, which is normal after a strong surge, while closed sales jumped meaningfully, showing that buyers who went under contract earlier are now reaching the finish line. Price reductions also edged higher, signaling that some sellers are adjusting expectations as competition increases.

What This Means for You

For Buyers
More new listings mean more choices, especially compared to a few weeks ago. While competition is still present, the slight dip in pending sales suggests some breathing room in certain price points. This is a good window to watch for opportunities where sellers may be more open to negotiation, particularly on homes that have been sitting.

For Sellers
Buyer activity remains solid, as shown by the jump in closed sales, but pricing strategy matters more than ever. With reductions creeping up, homes that are priced well and presented properly are still moving, while others may need adjustments. The market is rewarding sellers who launch strong from day one.

If you want to dig into how this is playing out in your specific neighborhood, I’m happy to break it down.

Community • February 7, 2026

Community Spotlight: Woodway

by Bill Jordan

If you have ever driven through Woodway, you probably noticed how different it feels from surrounding areas. There are no busy commercial corridors, no dense housing clusters, and very little traffic. That is entirely by design.

Woodway is one of the smallest and most exclusive residential communities in the region, tucked between Edmonds and Shoreline along the Puget Sound. With strict zoning, large lot requirements, and a strong focus on environmental preservation, Woodway offers a level of privacy and quiet that is increasingly rare in the Puget Sound area.

What Makes Woodway Unique

Woodway is primarily residential, with most homes situated on oversized lots surrounded by mature trees and natural buffers. Many properties offer partial or full water views, while others prioritize seclusion and wooded settings.

The town has long been known for its commitment to conservation. Development is intentionally limited, roadways are narrow and winding, and the overall feel is more estate neighborhood than suburban subdivision. For many homeowners, that sense of permanence and stability is a major part of the appeal.

Woodway Real Estate Snapshot

Woodway is not a high-volume market, and that is exactly what keeps it so desirable.

The average home price is approaching $2.7M, reflecting the size, privacy, and long-term value of properties in the area. Even more telling, only 17 homes sold in the past 12 months. That level of turnover is extremely low compared to nearby communities and highlights how rarely homes here change hands.

Buyers often wait years for the right opportunity, while sellers benefit from scarcity when a home does come to market.

Who Buys in Woodway

Woodway tends to attract buyers who value long-term ownership. Many are looking for a primary residence rather than a stepping-stone home. Privacy, space, and quiet surroundings usually rank higher than walkability or nearby retail.

It is also common to see multi-generational ownership or homeowners who stay for decades. Once people settle into Woodway, they tend to stay.

What Sellers Should Know

Because inventory is so limited, pricing strategy and presentation matter more than ever. Buyers shopping in Woodway are often highly informed and selective. When a home is positioned correctly, scarcity can work strongly in a seller’s favor.

Timing, preparation, and understanding how Woodway compares to nearby luxury markets like Edmonds and Shoreline can make a meaningful difference in outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Woodway is not for everyone, and that is exactly why it works so well for those who choose it. With an average home price near $2.7M and only 17 sales in the last year, this is one of the most tightly held residential communities in the region.

If you are considering buying or selling in Woodway, local insight and patience are essential. This is a market where understanding nuance matters just as much as understanding numbers. You can see what homes are for sale HERE.

Buyers • Community • February 4, 2026

A Washington Down Payment Program That Covers Up to 20 Percent Down. Here Is Who It Is Really For…

by Bill Jordan

One of the most common things I hear from buyers is, “I would love to own a home, but I will never save enough for a down payment.”

What many people do not realize is that Washington State has a down payment assistance program that can cover up to 20 percent down with zero interest for buyers who meet very specific criteria.

It is called the Covenant Homeownership Down Payment Assistance Program, and it was created to address long term impacts of historical housing discrimination.

––––––––––––––
What the Covenant Homeownership Program Offers

This program provides qualified first time homebuyers with up to 20 percent down payment assistance, capped at $150,000, plus eligible closing costs.

The loan is zero interest and is designed to help buyers bridge the gap that has kept homeownership out of reach for generations.

It can be used on a wide range of property types, including single family homes, condos, townhomes, manufactured homes, and certain duplexes.

––––––––––––––
Who This Program Is Designed For

This is where the program becomes very specific.

The Covenant Homeownership DPA Program is designed for first time homebuyers in Washington who were impacted by racially restrictive housing covenants prior to April 11, 1968, or who are descendants of someone who was.

It also applies to buyers who identify as Black, Hispanic, Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, Korean, or Asian Indian.

Eligibility is not based on credit alone, and income limits are higher than many people expect, though you cannot exceed them even by one dollar.

––––––––––––––
Additional Requirements to Know About

There are a few important requirements buyers should be aware of.

The home must be purchased as a primary residence.
Buyers must complete a state sponsored homebuyer education class.
A home inspection is required.
Documentation is required to support eligibility, including family records or historical documents when applicable.

While this may sound intimidating at first, many buyers find the process very manageable with the right lender and guidance.

––––––––––––––
Why This Program Matters Right Now

With home prices and interest rates still challenging for many first time buyers, programs like this can make the difference between waiting indefinitely and actually moving forward.

I am seeing many people assume they do not qualify without ever asking the question. In reality, some buyers are closer to eligibility than they think.

––––––––––––––
Final Thoughts

If you or someone you know has felt like homeownership was never meant to be an option, this is a program worth learning about.

Even if you are unsure whether you qualify, a simple conversation can help clarify next steps and avoid missing an opportunity that was specifically created to help.

If you would like more information, I am always happy to connect you with a trusted lender who specializes in this program and walk through how it could apply to your situation.

Buyers and Sellers • February 2, 2026

Weekly Market Update | Jan 26th – Feb 1st

by Bill Jordan

This Week’s Stats

New Listings: 128 ↓ (150)
Pending Sales: 190 ↑ (155)
Sold Homes: 69 ↑ (55)
Price Reductions: 60 ↑ (58)

Weekly Trend Overview

Buyer activity picked up meaningfully this week. Pending sales jumped while new listings slowed, a signal that motivated buyers are absorbing inventory quickly. At the same time, price reductions ticked up slightly, showing that sellers who miss the mark on pricing are adjusting faster than they were earlier this winter.

What This Means for You

For Buyers
More homes are going under contract, which means competition is back in play for well priced listings. That said, price reductions are still happening, creating opportunities if you are watching closely and ready to move quickly when the right one pops up.

For Sellers
Buyers are active, but pricing matters more than ever. Homes that hit the market priced correctly are moving. Those that are a little ambitious are adjusting. Strong presentation and a smart pricing strategy are key right now.

Community • January 31, 2026

Community Spotlight: Issaquah

by Bill Jordan

Nestled at the base of the Issaquah Alps, Issaquah offers a rare mix of natural beauty, strong schools, and easy access to major employment centers across the Eastside and Seattle. It consistently attracts buyers who want space, scenery, and a true community feel without feeling far removed from city conveniences.

Why People Love Living in Issaquah

Issaquah is known for its outdoor lifestyle. Hiking, trail running, and biking are everyday activities here with Cougar Mountain, Tiger Mountain, and Squak Mountain all nearby. Lake Sammamish provides waterfront parks, swimming, and paddleboarding in the warmer months, while the historic downtown adds charm with local shops, restaurants, and seasonal events.

Families are drawn to the highly regarded Issaquah School District, while commuters appreciate quick access to I 90, Bellevue, and Redmond. It is a location that balances nature and practicality very well.

Local Housing Snapshot

The housing market in Issaquah reflects its long term desirability and limited inventory.

Condos currently hover around $645,000, offering a more approachable entry point for buyers who want to be close to trails, transit, and downtown amenities.

Residential homes average around $1,255,000, with prices varying widely depending on neighborhood, lot size, and proximity to views or trail systems.

Homes here tend to hold value well, especially those with privacy, updated interiors, or strong outdoor connections.

Who Issaquah Is a Great Fit For

Issaquah works well for buyers who value lifestyle as much as the home itself. Outdoor enthusiasts, professionals commuting to the Eastside tech corridor, and buyers looking for strong resale fundamentals all tend to find a good fit here.

For sellers, demand remains steady due to limited buildable land and consistent buyer interest. Presentation and pricing strategy matter, but well prepared homes often attract strong attention.

If you are curious how Issaquah compares to nearby areas or want a hyper local breakdown by neighborhood, I am happy to dig in further.

Lastly, to search homes and condos for sale in Issaquah, click HERE!

Buyers • January 28, 2026

Don’t Skip That Home That’s Been Sitting on the Market

by Bill Jordan

A question I hear often from buyers is whether a home that has been sitting on the market should be avoided. It is easy to assume something must be wrong if a property has not gone pending quickly. In reality, homes that have been listed longer can sometimes offer some of the best opportunities in today’s market.

Instead of scrolling past them, these listings are often worth a closer look.

Why Some Homes Sit Longer Than Others

A home staying on the market does not always mean there is a major issue. In many cases, timing or pricing plays a bigger role than condition.

Some sellers list their home at the very top of the market to test demand. If buyers do not respond, the home may sit until price adjustments are made. Others may launch during slower seasons when buyer activity is lower, even though the home itself is solid.

There are also situations where photos or marketing did not highlight the home well, causing buyers to overlook it online even though it shows well in person.

What Longer Market Time Can Mean for Buyers

When a home has been listed for a while, sellers are often more open to conversations. That flexibility can create opportunities buyers do not usually get with brand new listings.

This may include room for price negotiation, seller credits toward closing costs, interest rate buy downs, or flexibility on timelines. In some cases, inspections or repair requests are also received more openly.

Homes with longer market time can allow buyers to slow down, evaluate options carefully, and make thoughtful decisions without the pressure of multiple offers.

How to Spot a Good Opportunity

The key is knowing the difference between a home that is simply overlooked and one that has real concerns.

This is where having a local agent matters. Reviewing price history, neighborhood trends, comparable sales, and inspection disclosures helps identify whether a home is priced incorrectly or if there are items to investigate further.

Some of the best values come from homes that just missed the mark on pricing or presentation but are otherwise strong properties in good locations.

The Bottom Line

Not every home that has been sitting on the market is a deal, but many deserve a second look. With the right strategy and guidance, these homes can offer value, flexibility, and negotiating power that newer listings often do not.

If you are house hunting and curious whether a longer listed home could be a smart move, I am always happy to help you evaluate it and talk through the pros and cons.

Buyers and Sellers • January 26, 2026

Weekly Market Update | Jan 20th – Jan 26th

by Bill Jordan

This Week’s Stats

New Listings: 150 ⬆️ (111 last week)
Pending Sales: 155 ⬆️ (153 last week)
Sold Homes: 55 ⬇️ (100 last week)
Price Reductions: 58 ⬇️ (62 last week)

Weekly Trend Overview

New listings jumped significantly this week, giving buyers more fresh inventory to look at. Pending sales inched up again, showing that buyer activity is still steady. Closed sales dipped, which is not unusual this time of year and often reflects contracts written earlier in the month. Price reductions pulled back slightly, suggesting sellers may be pricing a bit more realistically or holding firm early in the year.

What This Means for You

For Buyers
More new listings means more choices and a better chance to find the right fit. Even with steady competition, the slower pace of closed sales can create opportunities to negotiate, especially on homes that have been sitting.

For Sellers
Buyer activity is still there, but pricing and presentation matter more than ever. With inventory rising, homes that are priced correctly and show well are the ones moving into pending status.

Community • January 23, 2026

Community Spotlight: West Seattle and Alki Beach

by Bill Jordan

West Seattle offers a unique blend of laid back coastal living, established neighborhoods, and easy access to the rest of the city. With walkable business districts, waterfront views, and a strong sense of community, it continues to be one of Seattle’s most desirable areas for both homeowners and condo buyers.

Living in West Seattle

West Seattle is known for its village style feel with pockets like the Junction, Admiral, and Alki each offering their own character. Residents enjoy a mix of classic craftsman homes, updated mid century properties, and newer construction, all surrounded by parks, beaches, and Puget Sound views.

West Seattle market snapshot

Average residential home price around $1,055,000
Average condo price around $750,000

This pricing reflects strong demand for space, views, and neighborhood charm while still remaining more approachable than many core Seattle neighborhoods.

Spotlight on Alki Beach

Alki Beach is West Seattle’s waterfront gem. Known for its beach promenade, skyline views, and relaxed coastal vibe, Alki feels like a seaside town within the city. Homes here often feature sweeping water views, and condos offer a true lock and leave lifestyle steps from the beach.

Alki Beach market snapshot

Average residential home price around $1,200,000
Average condo price approaching $840,000

Prices in Alki reflect its limited inventory, waterfront proximity, and lifestyle driven appeal.

Why buyers love this area

West Seattle combines everyday convenience with lifestyle perks. Easy beach access, local restaurants, scenic walking paths, and strong community events all contribute to its appeal. Alki adds a vacation like feel that continues to attract buyers looking for views and a slower pace without leaving the city.

If you are considering buying or selling in West Seattle or specifically near Alki Beach, understanding these neighborhood level trends can make a real difference in timing and strategy. I am always happy to break down what these numbers mean for your specific situation and goals. To see what’s for sale currently, click HERE!

Sellers • January 21, 2026

Home Updates That Actually Pay You Back When You Sell

by Bill Jordan

A question I often get from homeowners is what renovations, if any, they should make before selling. The reality is that not all upgrades deliver the same return. Some improvements consistently attract buyers and support stronger offers, while others simply do not move the needle.

If you are considering selling in South Snohomish or North King County, here are the home updates that typically provide the best payoff, and how to approach them strategically.

Kitchen Updates Buyers Actually Notice

https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/best-kitchen-cabinet-refacing-for-your-home-section-1.jpg

The kitchen remains one of the most important rooms for buyers, but that does not mean a full remodel is required.

Smaller updates often deliver a stronger return than major renovations. Refacing cabinets, updating hardware, installing quartz countertops, and upgrading to modern appliances can dramatically improve first impressions. These changes help buyers see the home as move in ready without inflating the price beyond what the market supports.

In many local homes, I advise sellers to focus on clean lines, neutral finishes, and functionality rather than chasing trends.

Bathrooms That Feel Clean and Updated

https://i0.wp.com/hipandhumblestyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/bath-vanity.png?fit=926%2C1200&ssl=1

Bathrooms are another area where modest improvements go a long way. Buyers want spaces that feel clean, bright, and well maintained.

Replacing outdated vanities, fixtures, mirrors, and lighting can instantly refresh the room. Regrouting tile or updating a shower door can also make a noticeable difference without the cost of a full remodel.

The goal is not luxury. The goal is confidence. Buyers want to feel like they will not need to tackle projects right after moving in.

Curb Appeal Still Matters More Than You Think

https://tlc.ca/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/murray_frontyard_01.jpg

First impressions start before buyers ever walk through the front door. Simple exterior updates often deliver one of the highest returns.

Fresh exterior paint, updated landscaping, a clean entryway, and a well maintained front door can significantly increase showing activity. These updates signal pride of ownership and set the tone for the rest of the home.

In our local market, curb appeal can be the difference between a buyer scheduling a showing or scrolling past a listing online.

Energy Efficiency Is a Growing Buyer Priority

https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/cdn.treehouseinternetgroup.com/core/images/attic-systems/attic-insulation-installation.jpg

Energy efficient features continue to gain importance, especially with rising utility costs. Buyers respond well to upgrades like newer windows, added insulation, efficient heating systems, and smart thermostats.

These improvements may not always be flashy, but they reduce long term costs and increase perceived value. I often highlight these features heavily in marketing because buyers are paying closer attention than ever.

The Key Is Spending Smart, Not Spending More

One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is over improving. The highest return comes from understanding what buyers in your specific neighborhood expect, and where spending will actually matter.

This is where strategy becomes critical. I help sellers decide which updates are worth doing, which ones can be skipped, and where simple cosmetic improvements can outperform major renovations. I also have trusted local contractors and handymen available if work needs to be done quickly and efficiently.

Thinking About Selling This Year

If you are considering a move in 2026, a quick conversation can save you time, money, and stress. There is no obligation, and sometimes the best advice is confirming what not to do.

Helping homeowners make smart, confident decisions is part of what I do every day at CENTURY 21 Real Estate Center. When the time is right, I am here to help you prepare, price, and position your home for the strongest possible result.