Seattle Real Estate Market Update | December 2025
Seattle Real Estate Market Update – December 2025
The Seattle real estate market is closing out 2025 with a mix of seasonal slowdown, renewed competition, and ongoing opportunities for buyers. As we move deeper into the holidays, pricing, inventory, and buyer behavior continue to shift—offering a clear picture of where the market stands heading into 2026.
Affordable opportunities are still present, especially among homes that have been on the market for several weeks and new-construction properties where builders are offering incentives like closing-cost credits and interest-rate buydowns. Motivated sellers, including estates and builders, are creating space for buyers to secure deals before the spring rush.
Competition remains selective, with new and well-priced listings often attracting multiple offers. Homes lingering 30–45 days are less likely to command full asking price, yet fresh listings continue to sell at or slightly above list when priced correctly. Shrinking inventory is driving this renewed competitiveness, even heading into the slower season.
Mortgage rates have remained steady month-over-month, hovering around the mid-6% range. While far from the ultra-low rates of previous years, today’s rates have added stability. Many buyers are adjusting expectations and moving forward with purchases rather than waiting for the unlikely return of sub-4% mortgages.
Median sales prices experienced expected seasonal fluctuation. After hitting a record high last month, Seattle’s median dropped to $966,000. Bellevue remains down year-over-year by 4.2%, signaling continued value opportunities on the Eastside. On average, Seattle buyers are paying 99.4% of asking price, while Bellevue buyers are paying around 98.1%.
Days on market have inched upward, with Seattle at 28 average days and Bellevue at 22. Median days on market also rose, reflecting that older inventory is finally moving. Despite this, pending sales remain strong, outpacing new listings and tightening available inventory. Seattle now holds 2.3 months of supply, while Bellevue is at 1.9—both still signaling a seller-leaning market.
Looking ahead to 2026, buyers and sellers should prepare for an early and competitive spring season. With inventory shrinking and demand building, February through April are expected to heat up quickly. Sellers may benefit from listing earlier than usual, while buyers should act now or prepare to compete more aggressively after the new year.
Whether you’re planning to buy or sell in Seattle, Bellevue, or the surrounding areas, staying informed is key. If you’d like personalized guidance for your real estate goals, I’d be happy to help you navigate the 2026 market with confidence.
