Is It a Good Time to Buy in Seattle?

If you’ve been watching the Seattle real estate market and wondering is it a good time to buy in Seattle, the answer is: yes — for the right buyer with the right strategy.
The market has shifted in meaningful ways that give buyers more leverage, more choice, and more negotiating power than they’ve had in years.

Here’s what’s happening and why it matters.

1. Buyers Have More Negotiating Power Than Before

For the first time in a long time, buyers in Seattle and the Eastside are getting room to breathe.

Homes aren’t selling in the first weekend as frequently.
Sellers are more open to:

• Price reductions

• Closing cost credits

• Repair requests

• Interest-rate buydown contributions

• Accepting contingent offers

• Negotiating on terms instead of demanding clean, aggressive offers

This shift gives buyers genuine leverage and the ability to secure a home on their terms, not the seller’s.

2. Interest Rates Are Stabilizing — With Potential for Downward Movement

Rates are higher than historic lows, but they’ve been stabilizing, and many forecasts point to potential easing ahead.

Here’s how buyers benefit right now:

• You can negotiate seller-paid rate buydowns

• You have less competition — fewer bidding wars

• You can refinance later if rates drop

• Monthly payments become more manageable with concessions

In today’s market, the smart play is simple:

Marry the home, date the rate.

Secure the right property now, especially while buyers have leverage — and adjust the financing later if rates fall.

3. Inventory Is Increasing, Creating More Opportunities

Seattle and the Eastside still have limited housing overall, but compared to the last few years, buyers now have:

• More options

• More time to make decisions

• Less pressure to waive contingencies

• More listings sitting past the first weekend

Properties staying active longer = more negotiation room for you.

This doesn't mean the market is weak — it means the market is more balanced, which is good news for buyers who were boxed out before.

4. The Best Opportunities for Buyers Right Now

If you're considering whether now is a good time to buy in Seattle, here are the best opportunities we’re seeing:

✔ Homes on the market for 20+ days

Sellers become more flexible and more open to price adjustments.

✔ New construction

Builders often offer incentives, credits, or rate buydowns.

✔ Homes needing light cosmetic updates

Lower competition + potential for instant equity.

✔ Fringe neighborhoods around Seattle/Eastside

Areas like Shoreline, Kenmore, Lynnwood, Bothell, Renton, and parts of Snohomish County offer more value and less competition.

✔ Sellers who need to move quickly

Job relocations, downsizing, and vacant homes = motivated sellers.

5. What Buyers Should Be Cautious About

No market is perfect, and buyers should still be mindful:

• Don’t overpay simply because you have leverage

• Still perform inspections — even with seller concessions

• Think long-term about resale value

• Focus on location, school districts, and commute reliability

Work with an advisor who knows the patterns, pricing trends, and negotiating angles — this is where the right agent matters.

6. So… Is It a Good Time to Buy in Seattle?

Based on today’s conditions, yes — it is a good time to buy in Seattle if you want negotiating power, more options, and less competition.

For buyers who were discouraged by bidding wars or waived contingencies in past years, the current market offers a clear advantage:

• Strong negotiation opportunities

• Stabilizing interest rates

• More inventory

• A calmer, more manageable buying experience

Smart, prepared buyers are finding excellent homes — and excellent deals.

Thinking About Buying? Let’s Talk.

At Forrest Homes Group, we help buyers navigate the Seattle and Eastside markets with local knowledge, strategy, and strong negotiation.
With 110+ homes sold and 30+ years of Washington living, you’ll get guidance backed by experience and real data — not hype.

Schedule your consultation today, and let’s find the right home at the right price.