Buyers and Sellers • January 19, 2026

Weekly Market Update (Jan 12th to Jan 19th)

by Bill Jordan

This Week’s Stats

New Listings: 111 ↑ (from 47)
Pending Sales: 153 ↑ (from 94)
Sold Homes: 100 ↑ (from 90)
Price Reductions: 62 ↑ (from 44)

Weekly Trend Overview

This week brought a noticeable surge in activity across South Snohomish and North King Counties. New listings more than doubled compared to last week, signaling that sellers are stepping back into the market with confidence after the early January slowdown.

Buyer activity remained strong, with pending sales jumping to 153. That level of contract activity shows buyers are not just browsing, they are actively moving forward when the right home hits the market.

Closed sales also climbed, reflecting deals written earlier in the month coming together, while price reductions increased as some sellers adjusted expectations to stay competitive amid rising inventory.

Overall, this week points to a market gaining momentum on both sides.

What This Means for You

For Buyers

More new listings mean more choices and better opportunities to be selective. At the same time, strong pending numbers suggest competition is real for well priced homes, so preparation and timing still matter.

For Sellers

Inventory is building, which makes pricing and presentation more important than ever. Homes that are positioned correctly are still attracting serious buyer interest and moving into contract quickly.

Buyers and Sellers • Community • January 16, 2026

Community Spotlight: Redmond

by Bill Jordan

Redmond continues to stand out as one of the Eastside’s most desirable places to live, work, and invest. Known globally for its tech presence while still offering an exceptional quality of life, Redmond blends innovation, outdoor access, and thoughtfully planned neighborhoods in a way few cities can match.

Located just east of Seattle, Redmond offers convenient access to major employment centers, strong schools, and miles of trails and green space. From the walkability of downtown and Redmond Town Center to the quieter residential neighborhoods along the Sammamish River, the city appeals to a wide range of buyers.

Major Employers and Economic Stability

A significant driver of Redmond’s long term housing demand is its concentration of major employers. The city is home to the global headquarters of Microsoft, whose expansive campus anchors the local economy and attracts talent from around the world. Microsoft’s continued investment in Redmond has played a major role in shaping the city’s growth, infrastructure, and housing demand over the past several decades.

Redmond is also home to Nintendo of America, another globally recognized brand with a strong local presence. Together, these employers contribute to a stable job market, consistent buyer demand, and long term confidence in the local real estate market.

This employment base is a key reason Redmond has remained resilient through changing market cycles and continues to command strong pricing across all property types.

Redmond Real Estate Market Snapshot

Demand in Redmond remains steady, and pricing reflects the city’s continued popularity.

Average residential home prices are nearing $1.7 million, reinforcing Redmond’s position as a premier single family market on the Eastside. Condos are averaging close to $850,000, offering an attractive option for buyers who want proximity to employment hubs and amenities. Townhomes are hovering around $930,000 and continue to appeal to buyers seeking a balance of space, location, and lower maintenance living.

These figures highlight how competitive Redmond remains, even as buyers become more strategic and data driven.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Beyond employment, Redmond offers an exceptional lifestyle. Residents enjoy access to the Sammamish River Trail, Marymoor Park, and an extensive network of neighborhood parks. Downtown Redmond and Redmond Town Center provide dining, shopping, and entertainment options that continue to expand alongside the city’s growth.

Ongoing transportation improvements, including light rail expansion, further strengthen Redmond’s accessibility and long term appeal for homeowners and investors alike.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers, Redmond’s strong job market and limited inventory mean preparation and local insight are essential. Understanding how pricing varies by neighborhood and property type can significantly impact outcomes.

For sellers, sustained demand driven by major employers creates opportunity, particularly for homes that are well positioned and aligned with current market conditions.

Final Thoughts

Redmond remains a cornerstone of the Eastside real estate market, supported by major employers, strong lifestyle appeal, and long term economic stability. Whether you are considering a move to Redmond, relocating within the city, or simply tracking your home’s value, having local context makes all the difference.

If you would like a neighborhood specific breakdown or a personalized look at how these trends affect your home, I am always happy to help. You can also search for what properties are available by clicking HERE.

Buyers • January 14, 2026

The Credit Score Myth That’s Holding Buyers Back in Our Local Market

by Bill Jordan

If you have thought about buying a home but assumed your credit score is not good enough, you are not alone. This is one of the most common reasons I hear buyers hesitate, especially here in South Snohomish and North King Counties where home prices can feel overwhelming at first glance.

The reality is that many buyers are sitting on the sidelines because of a credit score myth that simply is not true.

The Big Credit Score Misunderstanding

A large number of would be buyers believe they need a near perfect credit score to qualify for a mortgage. In reality, many loan programs allow buyers to qualify with much lower scores depending on the loan type and overall financial picture.

This misunderstanding alone is enough to delay homeownership for years when it does not need to.

A Simple First Step That Costs Nothing

Here is the part many people do not realize. Talking with a lender to understand your options costs nothing and comes with no obligation. It is not a commitment to buy a home and it does not lock you into anything.

It is simply a conversation that answers one important question: “Where do I actually stand today?”

A quick lender check can tell you
• If you already qualify
• What loan programs may fit you best
• Whether a small credit tweak could improve your options
• Or if waiting a short time would make sense

They can also help you, if needed, create a roadmap to get you on track to being able to qualify.

That clarity alone often removes a lot of stress and guesswork.

What This Means for Buyers in Our Local Market

In our area, especially in communities like Lynnwood, Edmonds, Bothell, Shoreline, and Mill Creek, buyers who are prepared have an advantage. Waiting because of an assumption about credit can mean missing opportunities that fit both your budget and long term plans.

I regularly see buyers surprised when they learn they are far closer to qualifying than they expected.

The Bottom Line

Do not let a myth or assumption decide your future. The only way to know your options is to look at real information, not worst case scenarios.

If you have been thinking about buying but are unsure about your credit, I am happy to connect you with a trusted local lender for a no cost, no obligation conversation. Even if buying now is not the right move, having clarity puts you back in control of your timeline.

When you are ready to explore your options, I am here to help guide the process at your pace.

Buyers and Sellers • January 12, 2026

Weekly Market Update (Jan 6th to Jan 12th)

by Bill Jordan

This Week’s Stats

New Listings: 131 ↑ (from 47)
Pending Sales: 114 ↑ (from 94)
Sold Homes: 81 ↓ (from 90)
Price Reductions: 55 ↑ (from 44)

Weekly Trend Overview

This week marked a clear shift in activity across South Snohomish and North King Counties, with a noticeable jump in new inventory and buyer movement. New listings increased to 131, noticeable movement from last week’s 47, which is not surprising given the expectations for this increase after the holiday break.

Pending sales also climbed to 114, showing that buyers are responding to the increased selection and continuing to write offers despite more options coming online. Closed sales dipped slightly to 81, which is typical when inventory spikes and reflects timing rather than demand weakening.

Price reductions increased to 55, suggesting that some sellers are adjusting expectations as competition grows and buyers gain a bit more leverage.

Overall, this week shows momentum returning after a slower prior week, with both sides of the market becoming more active.

What This Means for You

For Buyers

More inventory means more choice and improved negotiating opportunities. With new listings rising and price reductions increasing, buyers can be selective and strategic while still seeing healthy activity levels.

For Sellers

Competition is increasing quickly. Homes that are priced well and presented properly are still attracting buyers, but pricing accuracy matters more now. Overpriced listings are more likely to require adjustments as inventory grows.

Community • January 9, 2026

Community Spotlight: Kirkland

by Bill Jordan

Located on the eastern shores of Lake Washington, Kirkland blends upscale waterfront living with a lively downtown, strong schools, and easy access to major Eastside employers. With miles of shoreline, walkable neighborhoods, and a thriving arts and dining scene, Kirkland continues to be one of the most sought after communities in King County.

Why People Love Living in Kirkland

Kirkland offers a rare mix of lifestyle and convenience. Residents enjoy waterfront parks, beaches, marinas, and trails alongside a downtown core filled with restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and local events. The city feels vibrant yet relaxed, making it appealing to professionals, families, and downsizers alike.

Its central location provides quick access to Bellevue, Redmond, and Seattle, while still maintaining a strong neighborhood feel. From Juanita and Rose Hill to downtown and waterfront enclaves, each area of Kirkland offers its own distinct character.

Housing and Neighborhoods

Kirkland features a wide range of housing options, from luxury waterfront estates and modern new construction to townhomes and condominiums close to amenities. Buyers are drawn to the variety of home styles, strong resale values, and long term desirability of the area.

Kirkland Real Estate Snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Kirkland home prices reflect its premium location and consistent demand.

Average residential home price is just under $2,000,000
Average condo price is around $760,000
Average townhome price is just under $920,000

These numbers highlight Kirkland’s position as a high value Eastside market with options across multiple property types.

Is Kirkland Right for You

If you are looking for waterfront access, walkability, top tier amenities, and long term investment stability, Kirkland deserves a closer look. Whether you are buying your first condo, moving up into a single family home, or considering a lifestyle change closer to the lake, Kirkland offers opportunities at multiple price points.

If you would like to explore specific neighborhoods, current listings, or understand how Kirkland compares to nearby Eastside communities, I am always happy to help. To see what’s currently for sale, click HERE.

Sellers • January 7, 2026

Thinking About Selling Your Home As Is in South Snohomish and North King County? Read This First!

by Bill Jordan

If you have been thinking about selling your home as-is you are not alone. I am hearing this question more often from homeowners across South Snohomish and North King County especially with homes that need a little updating or have a few deferred maintenance items.

Selling as-is can sound appealing. No prep. No repairs. No hassle. But in our local market that decision deserves a closer look because it can directly impact how much you walk away with and how smoothly the transaction goes.

Here is what you should know before deciding.

According to a recent study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), two-thirds of sellers (65%) completed minor repairs or improvements before selling (the blue and the green in the chart below). And only one-third (35%) sold as-is:

What Selling As-Is Really Means

Selling a home as-is simply means you are not committing to make repairs for the buyer. It does not mean disclosures go away or that buyers will ignore issues. Inspections still happen. Buyers still factor condition into their offers. Buyers can, and often will, still ask for repairs or credits. Lenders still have minimum requirements, and FHA and VA lending many times have additional requirements.

In many cases an as-is listing attracts a smaller pool of buyers and often stronger investors who price repairs into their offer plus a margin for risk.

Why Some Homes Sell Better With Strategic Prep

In our local market buyers are still willing to pay a premium for homes that feel well cared for even if they are not fully updated. Small improvements often make a bigger difference than sellers expect.

Examples that commonly matter to buyers here include
Fresh interior paint and carpet
Addressing obvious deferred maintenance
Minor electrical or plumbing fixes
Simple exterior clean up and curb appeal

On the flip side there are upgrades that rarely return dollar for dollar value and are often not worth doing right before listing.

This is where strategy matters.

How I Help Sellers Decide What Is Worth It and What Is Not

One of the biggest advantages of working with me is that I do not take a one size fits all approach. Before you list I walk through your home with a buyer focused lens and help you prioritize.

I can help you answer questions like
What will buyers notice immediately
What may come up during inspection
What repairs could impact financing
What items buyers may overlook or plan to change anyway

Just as important I have trusted local handymen and contractors who can help with exactly what makes sense. That means you are not scrambling to find help or guessing where to spend money. It also means projects get done efficiently and cost effectively.

When Selling As-Is Can Make Sense

There are absolutely situations where selling as-is is the right move. These can include major renovation needs, estate situations, or sellers who value speed and simplicity over maximizing price.

If that is the case my job is still to price and position the home correctly so expectations are clear and you attract the right buyer from day one.

The Bottom Line

Selling as-is is not always the shortcut it sounds like. In many cases a small amount of guidance and targeted prep can lead to a smoother sale and a stronger result.

If you are thinking about selling and are unsure whether to make repairs or list as-is I am happy to walk you through the options. Even a short conversation can help you feel confident that you are spending money the right way or not at all.

If you want a no pressure opinion on your home and what buyers in our local market are really looking for just reach out.

Buyers and Sellers • January 5, 2026

Weekly Market Update (Dec 29 to Jan 5)

by Bill Jordan

This Week’s Stats
New Listings: 47 ↑ (from 19)
Pending Sales: 94 ↑ (from 72)
Sold Homes: 90 ↑ (from 70)
Price Reductions: 44 ↑ (from 14)

Weekly Trend Overview

With the holidays behind us, this week brought a clear reawakening in market activity across South Snohomish and North King Counties. New listings more than doubled compared to last week, signaling sellers are beginning to step back into the market after the Christmas slowdown.

Buyer activity followed suit, with pending sales climbing to 94. This is an encouraging early January sign that buyers who paused in late December are now re engaging and making decisions. Closed sales also rose to 90, reflecting deals that were already in motion before the holiday break.

Price reductions increased as well, which is common as sellers reset expectations and fine tune pricing for the new year. Overall, this week feels like a market turning the corner and gaining momentum heading into January.

What This Means for You

For Buyers
More inventory is coming online, giving you better selection than just a week ago. At the same time, the jump in pending sales shows competition is returning quickly. If you are planning to buy early this year, getting fully prepared now can make a real difference as activity continues to build.

For Sellers
Buyer engagement is clearly picking up, which is a positive signal if you are considering listing soon. With price reductions increasing, strategic pricing from day one will be key. Homes that are positioned correctly are already attracting attention as buyers re enter the market after the holidays.

Community • January 2, 2026

Community Spotlight: Lake Forest Park, Washington

by Bill Jordan

Located along the northern edge of Lake Washington, Lake Forest Park is known for its peaceful atmosphere, lush greenery, and strong sense of community. This small city offers a tucked away feel while remaining conveniently close to Seattle, Shoreline, and the Eastside, making it a favorite for buyers who want privacy without feeling disconnected.

Lake Forest Park is especially appealing to those who value outdoor access and everyday livability. Residents enjoy parks, waterfront areas, and easy connections to the Burke Gilman Trail. The Lake Forest Park Town Center serves as a true community hub, bringing together local restaurants, shops, the library, and year round events in a walkable setting.

Lake Forest Park Housing Market Snapshot

Based on the most recent 12 month data, Lake Forest Park continues to show strong pricing and consistent demand across both residential and condo properties.

Residential Homes
The average home price over the past 12 months is over $1,250,000, reflecting the area’s limited inventory, established neighborhoods, and long term desirability.

Condos
The average condo price over the past 12 months is just over $380,000, offering a more attainable entry point into Lake Forest Park while still enjoying proximity to amenities, transit routes, and green space.

Why Buyers and Sellers Are Watching Lake Forest Park

For buyers, Lake Forest Park offers a rare combination of natural surroundings, larger lots, and access to major employment centers. For homeowners, current pricing trends highlight the stability and lasting appeal of this community, even as market conditions continue to shift.

When you are considering a move, exploring condo options, or simply curious about what homes are available, you can see them all HERE.

Buyers • January 2, 2026

Not Sure If You’re Ready to Buy a Home? Start With These 5 Questions

by Bill Jordan

Not Sure If You’re Ready to Buy a Home? Start With These 5 Questions

The start of a new year has a way of putting big life decisions back on the table. For many people across South Snohomish and North King Counties, buying a home is one of them.

If you have been quietly wondering whether this is the year you finally make a move, you are not alone. The good news is you do not need to have everything figured out today. The best place to start is simply asking yourself the right questions.

Here are five that can help you gain clarity and confidence before taking the next step.

1. Do I want the lifestyle that comes with homeownership?

Buying a home is about more than the purchase price. It is about how you want to live.

Would you enjoy having more space, a yard, or a place to truly make your own? Are you thinking about planting roots in a specific community like Edmonds, Mukilteo, Mill Creek, or Bothell?

Homeownership brings responsibility, but it also brings stability, pride, and the ability to shape your environment. If that lifestyle feels appealing, it may be a sign you are closer than you think.

2. Does buying make sense for my long term plans?

This is less about timing the market and more about timing your life.

If you expect to stay in the area for several years, buying can often make sense even if conditions are not perfect. Over time, homeownership allows you to build equity and benefit from appreciation, especially in a region with strong long term demand like ours.

If your plans include staying put, buying becomes a lifestyle decision, not a short term bet.

3. Am I financially prepared, even if I am not perfect?

Many buyers delay because they think they need flawless finances. In reality, preparation matters more than perfection.

This includes understanding your credit, knowing what monthly payment feels comfortable, and having a realistic sense of your cash position. There are many loan programs available, and options vary more than most people realize.

A quick conversation with a trusted local lender can provide clarity without pressure. Knowledge alone often removes a lot of anxiety.

4. Am I ready to start the process, even slowly?

You do not need to jump straight into house tours.

Being ready can simply mean gathering information, watching how homes are priced in your target areas, or understanding what different price points look like in today’s market.

Many of my clients start months before they buy. The goal early on is education, not urgency.

5. Do I have the right guidance?

This might be the most important question.

The buying process feels very different when you have a local expert helping you interpret the market, evaluate opportunities, and avoid costly mistakes. Especially in a competitive and nuanced region like South Snohomish and North King Counties, local insight matters.

You should never feel rushed or uninformed. The right guidance brings clarity and confidence at every stage.

So, Are You Ready?

If you answered yes to some of these questions but not all of them, that is completely normal. Readiness is not a single moment. It is a process.

The smartest next step is often a simple conversation. No pressure, no sales pitch. Just clarity around where you stand and what options make sense right now.

If buying a home is on your radar for 2026 or beyond, I am always happy to be a resource.

Buyers and Sellers • December 29, 2025

Weekly Market Update (Dec 22 to Dec 29)

by Bill Jordan

This Week’s Stats

New Listings: 19 ↓ (from 48)
Pending Sales: 72 ↓ (from 146)
Sold Homes: 70 ↓ (from 111)
Price Reductions: 14 ↓ (from 55)

Weekly Trend Overview

With Christmas Day landing midweek, a slowdown across all categories was fully expected and clearly reflected in the data. New listings dropped to just 19 as many sellers paused activity during the holiday stretch. Buyer movement also eased, with pending sales settling at 72, which is typical for this time of year.

Closed sales came in at 70, continuing the seasonal trend of lower volume tied more to timing than demand. Price reductions fell sharply to 14, signaling that sellers currently on the market are largely comfortable holding their pricing rather than making adjustments during the holidays.

Overall, this week reflects a classic end of year pause rather than a shift in market fundamentals.

What This Means for You

For Buyers
Less competition and fewer active listings can actually work in your favor. Sellers who remain on the market right now are often more motivated, which can create opportunities for stronger negotiations before activity ramps back up in January.

For Sellers
While activity is quieter, serious buyers are still watching closely. Listings that are priced correctly and well presented continue to stand out. Many sellers are choosing to wait until the new year, which could lead to a surge of competition once January arrives.