Key Real Estate Insights for Homeowners in 2025

By Matt Stark

Matt Stark is a top 1% REALTOR® in Seattle with over 19 years of experience. A Seattle native, he began his career in 1999 as an investor before transitioning to full-time real estate.

What does the 2025 real estate market have in store for you? As we move into the first quarter, I’m seeing some interesting trends in the local real estate market. In January, we started the month with around 615 active listings and ended with about 668—so inventory increased slightly. What stood out even more was that only 478 new homes came on the market, but 685 went pending. In other words, buyers are out there, and they’re moving quickly. This strong demand is a clear signal that the market is more active than you might expect, even with interest rates being higher.

When I analyze these numbers, I always think in terms of supply and demand. Right now, the demand for homes is outweighing the available supply. It’s a situation that often leads to price appreciation. While this dynamic might shift in the spring when more listings typically appear, the early indicators show that buyers are willing to absorb inventory as fast as it comes online. That’s a good sign for sellers who are well-positioned to take advantage of the current market conditions.

Of course, this isn’t to say that every home will sell immediately or at a premium price. The market can vary depending on factors like location, home type, and price point. But as we step into February and beyond, I believe we’re gearing up for a very active first quarter. Even if more inventory becomes available, it’s likely that high demand will keep homes moving. This is the type of environment where having a solid strategy, a realistic price, and a strong understanding of local market conditions will make all the difference.

If you’re curious about what these trends mean for your own property or you’d like some insight into what to expect as the year progresses, I’m here to help. Feel free to reach out at 206-940-4557 or email me at matt@mattstarkrealestate.com. I’m always happy to discuss the market, answer your questions, and help you plan your next move.