September Slide = Opportunity for Puget Sound Buyers & Sellers

If you’ve been waiting for a nudge from the market—this is it.

Friday’s employment data pushed mortgage rates down to levels we haven’t seen since last September. Mortgage News Daily’s national average shows a 30-year fixed at 6.29% APR (760+ credit, 25% down, 1 point). Even better, the 7-year ARM sits at 5.59% APR.

What that actually means in dollars

• 30-year fixed: On May 21, 2025, the average was 7.08%. On a $600,000 loan, that payment is $4,024/mo (principal & interest).At 6.29%, it’s $3,709/mo—$314/mo less (≈ $3,770/yr).

• 7-year ARM: Earlier this year averages hit 7.12%; today’s 5.59% drops that same $600,000 payment from $4,040/mo to $3,441/mo—a $600/mo difference (≈ $7,195/yr).

• Rule of thumb from today’s pricing: $314/mo ≈ +$51,000 in purchasing power on a 30-year; $599/mo ≈ +$104,000 on a 7-year ARM.

Rates quoted are national averages from Mortgage News Daily on 9/5/25. Your rate will vary based on credit, down payment, property type, points, and lender. Educational examples only—talk with your lender for personalized options.

Why sellers should pay attention

Last year’s quick mid-September dip into the low 6s lit a fire under the market: Pending single-family sales in King County jumped 37.5% from Sept 1 to Oct 15, 2024. That window closed after an unexpectedly strong jobs report on October 4, but the surge was real—and fast.

This September could have similar results:

• More selection for buyers: Regionally, months of inventory are higher across King, Snohomish, Pierce, and Kitsap, giving buyers more to choose from.

• Prices are still higher year over year: All four counties posted higher August prices than last August. Buyers don’t feel like they’re stepping into a falling market—confidence matters.

Bottom line: When rates dip, even briefly, buyers jump. If you’re thinking of selling this fall, have your home prepped now so you can capture the first wave of renewed demand instead of chasing it.

Info for this article from:

Kyle Bergquist

Originating Branch Manager

Cell:  425.478.0961 

CrossCountry Mortgage

Company NMLS: 3029  |  Equal Housing Lender