The Greater Seattle market has cooled slightly from the red-hot frenzy of 2021–22, but it remains competitive due to strong demand and limited inventory. Homes are staying on the market a little longer, giving buyers more breathing room, yet well-priced homes in popular areas (like Bellevue, Kirkland, or Edmonds Bowl) still attract multiple offers. Overall, the Eastside continues to see higher price points driven by tech industry jobs, while areas like Snohomish County offer more space at slightly more affordable prices.

Traditionally, spring (March–May) is the busiest season, with more homes hitting the market and more buyers actively shopping. Summer and early fall also see strong activity, especially in family-friendly neighborhoods where buyers want to move before school starts. Winter months bring fewer listings, but that can benefit buyers who want less competition or sellers who need their home to stand out. In short: the “best time” depends on your personal goals and whether you’d benefit more from more options (spring/summer) or less competition (winter).

A common myth is that you need 20% down to buy a home here. While 20% can help you avoid private mortgage insurance, many buyers—especially first-time homeowners—purchase with as little as 3–5% down. FHA and VA loans offer even more flexibility for qualified buyers. On the Eastside, where median prices are higher, many buyers combine smaller down payments with strategies like seller credits or rate buydowns to make monthly payments more manageable.

As of 2025, King County’s median home price hovers just above $900,000, while Snohomish County is closer to $750,000. On the Eastside, cities like Bellevue, Kirkland, and Redmond often see prices well above $1.2M due to proximity to tech hubs like Microsoft and Google. In contrast, areas like Edmonds, Bothell, or Lynnwood provide a blend of affordability, character, and lifestyle, often attracting buyers who want more space and community feel without being far from the city.

Yes, though not at the same intensity as during the pandemic boom. In 2021, buyers routinely waived inspections and appraisal contingencies just to compete. Today, multiple offers are still common in highly desirable neighborhoods—think Bellevue, Edmonds Bowl, or homes near good schools—but buyers often have more negotiating room. Homes that are turnkey, well-staged, and priced correctly tend to draw the most attention.

In today’s Greater Seattle market, most homes sell within 2–4 weeks. In hot pockets like Kirkland waterfront or downtown Edmonds, listings can go pending in under a week. However, higher-end homes (over $2M) or unique properties may take longer as they appeal to a more specific buyer pool. Well-prepared sellers—those who stage, price strategically, and market their home—are seeing faster timelines and stronger offers. At Aufhammer Homes, our average DOM (days on market) is 6 days.

• Seattle: Ballard, Green Lake, Queen Anne, and West Seattle continue to attract young professionals and families.

• Eastside: Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, and Sammamish are top choices for tech workers who value proximity to offices and schools.

North of Seattle: Edmonds is especially popular for its walkable waterfront downtown, views, and strong community feel. Bothell, Mill Creek, and Mukilteo also offer great schools and more space.
Each area has its own personality—buyers often weigh lifestyle, commute, and community alongside price.

Property taxes in the Greater Seattle area average between 0.9–1.1% of a home’s assessed value annually, slightly below the national average. Because home values are higher here, the actual dollar amount can still feel significant. For example, a $900K home in King County may carry taxes of $8,500–$10,000 per year, while a $750K home in Snohomish County may land closer to $7,000–$8,000.

Closing costs in Greater Seattle typically run 2–5% of the purchase price. These include lender fees, title insurance, escrow, appraisal, and recording costs. On a $800K home, that could mean $16K–$40K in closing costs. Buyers sometimes negotiate for sellers to cover part of these expenses, especially in a more balanced market.

Yes. The Seattle and Eastside markets move quickly, with many nuances that only local experience can catch. A good agent helps you navigate multiple-offer situations, pricing strategies, inspection negotiations, and local regulations (like septic requirements in Snohomish County or shoreline rules in Edmonds). For sellers, an agent provides marketing, staging, and strategy to maximize your price. For buyers, an agent’s guidance can be the difference between winning a home you love and missing out.