Seattle Area Sees More Homes for Sale in 2025—So Why Are Buyers Holding Back?

If you've been watching the Seattle real estate market closely this year, you may have noticed something surprising: more homes are hitting the market—but sales activity hasn't quite kept up.

As a Seattle-area realtor with over two decades of local experience, I’m seeing this shift play out daily. More listings, longer days on market, and buyers… waiting. So what’s really going on?

Let’s break down what this means if you’re thinking of buying or selling in 2025.

Inventory Is Up—Especially in Suburban Pockets

In the first half of 2025, the number of active listings across Seattle, Kirkland, Redmond, and surrounding areas has steadily increased. Sellers who waited through the high-rate uncertainty of 2023–2024 are finally listing—some hoping to capitalize before potential rate drops later this year.

Where we're seeing the most growth:

• Kirkland's Rose Hill & Juanita neighborhoods

• North Seattle (Maple Leaf, Northgate, Greenwood)

• South King County suburbs like Renton and Kent

But Buyers Are Taking Their Time

Even with more homes available, many buyers are proceeding with caution. Why?

Interest rates are still higher than what buyers were used to pre-2022
Affordability is still tight, especially for first-timers
Market uncertainty is keeping many in “wait and see” mode
Competition is less intense—so buyers don’t feel rushed

What This Means for Sellers in 2025

If you’re a homeowner thinking of listing, presentation and pricing are more important than ever. Buyers are being picky. Homes that are move-in ready, professionally marketed, and priced correctly are still moving quickly. The rest? Sitting longer than expected.

Staging, smart pricing strategy, and standout marketing make all the difference right now.

And for Buyers? This Could Be Your Window

More inventory = more choices. Less competition = stronger negotiating power.

If you’ve been feeling shut out of the market in the past, now might be the moment to take a closer look—before interest rates shift again or demand catches up.

Want Help Navigating This Unique Moment?

Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading, or just exploring your options, I’m here to guide you with local insight and strategy—not headlines.

Let’s talk about your goals—and make this market work for you.