A lot of buyers in Bothell, and across Snohomish and King County are asking:

📉 ‘Are prices going to drop?’
📈 ‘Should I wait for rates to fall?’

These are valid questions, especially after the whirlwind market of the past few years. But here’s what most don’t realize about the current housing climate in our local market:
This summer might actually be your sweet spot for buying.
Here’s why, backed by what we’re seeing on the ground right now:

1. More Negotiating Power

   For the past few years, sellers truly ruled the market in Western Washington, often receiving multiple offers well over asking price with no contingencies. But now? Buyers are genuinely gaining the upper hand again.

   • Seller Concessions are Back: Many sellers are now more willing to offer concessions. This means:
     • ✅ Some sellers are covering repairs found during inspections.
     • ✅ Some are offering closing cost credits to help ease your upfront expenses.
     • ✅ Others are simply… lowering the price to meet market demand.
   • Increased Inventory Means Less Competition: Why are sellers more flexible? Because inventory is the highest it’s been in years. According to NWMLS data from June 2025, active listings in Snohomish County saw a substantial 38.82% increase year-over-year, with 19,837 active listings at the end of June 2025 compared to 14,393 in June 2024. This expanded inventory translates directly to less intense bidding wars and more breathing room for you as a buyer.

   Key Takeaway: The “fear of missing out” (FOMO) from intense competition has significantly eased, allowing you to be more selective and assertive.



2. More Homes to Choose From

   Remember last summer, when it felt like slim pickings in Snohomish and King County? That feeling is starting to change dramatically.

   • New Listings on the Rise: The market is seeing a surge in available homes. NWMLS brokers added 10,965 new listings to the database in June 2025, a year-over-year increase of 9.83% compared to June 2024. In Bothell specifically, there were 524 active listings and 60 new listings in June 2025, providing more options than buyers have seen in some time.
   • Diverse Options: This increased supply means a wider variety of home types, sizes, and locations are available. So, if you’ve been holding out for “the one” – that specific layout, ideal neighborhood, or perfect yard – it might literally be hitting the market this week, ready for your consideration without intense pressure.

3. More Price Flexibility

   The frantic pace of sales has slowed, and sellers are getting more realistic about pricing to attract buyers in this evolving environment.

   • Homes Sitting Longer: Homes are sitting on the market longer than in recent years. In June 2025, the median days on market in King County was 28 days, up from 19 days last year. In Snohomish County, the median days on market was 30 days, up from 17 days last year. This extended time gives you more opportunity to evaluate properties and for sellers to become more flexible.
   • Price Adjustments are Common: We’re seeing more price reductions across the board, indicating sellers are adjusting expectations. This doesn’t mean a market crash – it means opportunity for prepared and strategic buyers. You’re less likely to overpay and more likely to find a property at a fairer market value.

🎯 Bottom line? This summer, the local market in Snohomish and King County gives you:
✔️ More options
✔️ More leverage in negotiations
✔️ And better chances to negotiate terms that benefit you, the buyer.

Don’t let headlines from other markets or past trends deter you. The local conditions are creating a unique window for savvy buyers.