Is Now a Good Time to Buy in the Seattle Area? (August 2025 Update)
If you’ve been watching the Seattle housing market and wondering whether now is the right time to buy—you’re not alone. With interest rates fluctuating, more homes hitting the market, and buyer fatigue still lingering from the past few years, we’re getting this question a lot lately.
So, let’s break it down:
What’s really happening in Seattle real estate this August—and is it a smart time to make your move?
Interest Rates Are High... But Stabilizing
Mortgage rates are still hovering around the 6.6% range, depending on your loan type and credit. While this isn’t the historic low of the pandemic boom, we are seeing stabilization, and in some cases, small rate drops week to week.
Here’s why that matters:
Buyers who were priced out earlier this year are cautiously re-entering the market.
Lenders are getting more competitive—offering rate buydowns, ARM options, and first-time buyer perks.
Many experts predict modest rate drops in early 2026, making buying now + refinancing later a reasonable strategy.
Pro tip: If the right house pops up and you can afford the monthly payment, waiting may not save you much—and prices could rise.
Inventory Is Up (And So Is Buyer Opportunity)
The Seattle market is finally seeing more breathing room. As of July's close, King County has over 4,000 active listings, and Snohomish County has 1.9 months of inventory, up from last year. This means:
Buyers have more options.
Bidding wars are less common (though not gone entirely).
You can negotiate again—think inspection credits, closing cost help, or even price reductions.
If you’ve been waiting for the frantic pace to slow down—this is your moment.
Home Prices Are Leveling Out
After years of double-digit price growth, Seattle home prices are holding steady. We're seeing:
King County’s median price is hovering near $845,000, up just 2% YoY.
Price per square foot has flattened, making it easier to find value.
Sellers are becoming more realistic—especially if their home has been on the market for a few weeks.
This creates a window where buyers have negotiating power without the fear of skyrocketing prices.
So, Is Now a Good Time to Buy?
Here’s the bottom line:
If you’re financially ready and planning to stay put for at least 3–5 years, August 2025 is a solid time to buy in the Seattle area.
You’ll likely face less competition, have more inventory to choose from, and can make informed offers without the same rush of past years.
And if you’re waiting for rates to fall? You can always refinance later—but you can’t lock in today’s price in tomorrow’s market.
Let’s Talk Strategy
Every buyer’s situation is different, and we’d love to help you figure out the best move for you. Whether you’re looking in Edmonds, Ballard, Shoreline, or anywhere in between—we’re here for it.
Reach out to chat with our team or browse current homes at aufhammerhomes.com
We’ll help you make a confident move—whatever the market is doing.