Fall Market: Holding Its Breath

As the rain returns and the maples leafs fall on the Burke Gillman Trail, our fall selling season is in full swing. From Wallingford bungalows and Green Lake condos to Kenmore ramblers and Snohomish new builds, I’m hearing the same thing at open houses: “We’re watching the market—what’s next?”

A lot is in the mix right now—interest rates, a jump in inventory, broader economic headlines (yes, even the government shutdown chatter). Around the region, it feels like the market is taking a deep breath as we roll through October.

Why fall feels fast here

Spring usually steals the spotlight (February–June), but our fall window is shorter and more intense. Around Labor Day we see a burst of new listings; by the time the Halloween décor is out, buyers are hustling to be closed before the holidays. Once we hit the first couple of weeks of November, momentum trails off as attention shifts to Thanksgiving and year-end plans. Translation: timing and execution matter more now than ever.

Rates + reality on the ground

Rates are the drumbeat this season—especially for first-time and lower-price-range buyers across the Northwest who rely on financing. When rates nudge down, we see weekend traffic pick up and offers come together faster. When they bounce up, buyers pause, compare payments, and take another lap.

Inventory: more choices, slower pace

Across King and Snohomish counties, there’s simply more to choose from than a year ago. That’s good news for buyers; you’re not writing offers after a five-minute walkthrough. For sellers, it means we must out-compete the listing two streets over or they will sell and we won't. Days on market have stretched in many neighborhoods, but well-priced, well-presented homes are still moving—often after the first full weekend.

What this could mean for the rest of 2025 (and your 2026 plans)

If rates drift lower into late fall/early winter, it could spark a strong finish and set up a healthier start to 2026. Buyers who act while inventory is ample and competition is calmer often lock in the best combination of price, terms, and selection.

How to win—right now

If you’re selling

• Price to the market you’re in, not the one you wish for. You truly need to be the best value or you might get showings but no offers.

• Presentation is everything. Our fall light is softer and days are shorter—so warm interior lighting, fresh mulch, and leaf-free gutters matter. (Mossy roofs and soggy lawns are real PNW hurdles.)

• Be easy to see. Early sunsets mean we need flexible showing windows and well-lit pathways.

• Pre-market tune-ups that pay. Quick wins I’m seeing work: exterior window wash, carpet refresh, paint touch-ups, and simple staging to add brightness on gray days.

If you’re buying

• Shop with a payment, not just a price. I’ll help you model monthly costs so a rate swing doesn’t catch you off guard.

• Use the longer days on market (DOM) to your advantage. Homes sitting a bit longer might offer room to negotiate on credits or timing.

• Focus on fundamentals. Sound systems, strategic locations (commute lines, future light-rail), and floor plans that live well through dark winters beat trend-of-the-moment finishes.