Monthly Newsletter 04/04/2025

As we head into Q2, I wanted to review preliminary Q1 stats in order to report the latest trends in the market. The spring market has sprung, and activity is positive on both the seller and buyer side. The two charts above show key market factors from two points of view, March 2025 over February 2025 (Month over Month, MOM) and Q1 2025 over Q1 2024 (Year over Year, YOY).  By looking at MOM, you can see the real-time progression of activity as we head into the busiest time of year in the real estate market, and the YOY look compares how 2025 is starting in comparison to 2024.

MOM new listings made a big jump up, days on market are shrinking, list-to-sale price ratios are slightly rising, and prices are maintaining and appreciating. Inventory remains tight despite the increase in new listings, with all six market areas sitting at a Seller’s Market (0-2 months of inventory). This indicates strong buyer demand that is absorbing the selection despite the slow decline in interest rates. We anticipate a strong spring market with more opportunity than 2024 provided for buyers, which is a welcome change.

The second chart shows that in Q1 2024, inventory was much more constricted in comparison to Q1 2025. The limited inventory last year created intense upward pressure on prices when rates were even higher than they are now. We are maintaining home values and growing at a slower pace than last year, which will be more sustainable. With affordability at an all-time low, this is good news for buyers. Sellers are still making incredible gains as price growth has been phenomenal over the last decade, and YOY, it is looking positive. With real estate being a long-term hold investment, many sellers are enjoying favorable returns when they decide to make a move.

Overall, the start to 2025 is taking on typical seasonal patterns. We have seen a quarter-point dip in interest rates, more selection, continued buyer demand, and sizable seller equity. If you are curious about how the trends relate to your real estate goals, please reach out. It is always my goal to help keep my clients informed so they are empowered to make informed decisions.

At press time, these figures accounted for the majority of March closings outside of the last two days. They still tell the story of the trends, so I was anxious to get them out. If you are on my physical mailing list, you will receive finalized numbers later in the month for your specific market area. Please let me know if you’d like to receive consistent quarterly reports, and I will add you to my snail-mail database.

You’re invited to our annual Paper Shredding Event & Food Drive. We partner with Confidential Data Disposal to provide a safe, eco-friendly way to reduce your paper trail and help prevent identity theft.

Saturday, April 19th, 10AM to 2PM (or until the trucks are full)
4211 Alderwood Mall Blvd, Lynnwood
Bring your sensitive documents to be professionally destroyed on-site. Limit 10 file boxes per visitor.

We will also be collecting non-perishable food and cash donations to benefit Volunteers of America Western Washington food banks. Donations are not required, but are appreciated. Hope to see you there!

>> This is a paper-only event. No x-rays, electronics, recyclables, or any other materials.