the
MAY 2017
Volume 8 | Issue 5
EYE ON THE
market
Our strong regional economy and the steady influx of new residents continue to fuel local real estate. The most recent Northwest MLS statistics show that median closed-sale prices for singlefamily homes in March are up year-over-year, with King County seeing an overall 12.93 percent price increase. Neighboring counties continue to absorb buyers seeking more affordable options (and more space), regardless of commute considerations. Snohomish County single-family home prices increased by 10.39 percent and Pierce County by 11.32 percent. As we enter the time of year when sellers traditionally decide to list, our region is thirsty for new inventory. Price increases and inventory shortages are also affecting areas outside of the tri-county area. Thurston and Kitsap counties are now experiencing an increase in buyer interest.
LOCAL There’s been a slight uptick in the number of active listings month-over-month in most areas, but it’s also apparent these listings are quickly being snapped up by buyers. Despite price increases, most listings sell within the first 30 days. Overall statistics show a notable reduction in days on the market, in particular for condo units. Even as homes move quickly from listed to sold, brokers caution against overpricing. They advise that properly priced homes in good condition are the ones that sell quickly, while overpriced homes may languish on the market. Today’s savvy and persistent buyers may consider passing on an overpriced home even at the risk of extending their home search by weeks or even months. As summer nears, the traditional time to list is fast approaching. While our spring has struggled to warm up, the market appears to just be getting started.
mother’s day GIFT GIVING IDEAS
6 Seattle Boating Opening Day nwboatinfo.com
7 Taco Libre Truck Showdown in Fremont | 12-13 Northwest Paddling Festival at Lake Sammamish State Park 13-14 Kirkland Artist Studio Tour kirklandartscenter.org 17-20 Ballard Jazz Festival ballardjazzfestival.com May 18- Seattle International Film June 11 Festival | siff.net 20 Auburn Petpalooza auburnwa.gov
Here are a few ideas and themes to make this Mother’s Day extra special: Make Time for Mom—Create a home Thanks for the Memories, Mom—Create 20 spa with a gift basket filled with a plush a custom photo book full of fun family terry robe, towels and slippers, jars of memories from the past year. There are her favorite bath gels, soaps and scented several sites online that make it easy to 20 candles. As an added touch, create a create a unique layout. Try mixbook.com, relaxing music playlist and schedule a shutterfly.com, photo.walgreens.com, time for her to enjoy without interruption. adoramapix.com or snapfish.com. 20 You Light Up My Life, Mom—Let Mom Whatever you give for Mother’s Day, know she’s the light of your life by giving remember, it’s the thought that counts. 20 her a LuMee.com light-up case for her cellphone. Mom will always look her best when she takes selfies, and you will, too, 20-21 when you photobomb her shots. One of a Kind, Just Like Mom—Visit etsy.com, where you’re sure to find a 29 unique gift that will make this Mother’s Day one to remember. Use search terms that include her favorite things, and May 31you’ll find everything from greeting cards June 4 to jewelry, art and more.
Happy Mother’s Day!
happenings
Edmonds Jazz Connection daybreakersrotary.com Gig Harbor Beer Festival gigharborbeerfestival.com JBLM Armed Forces Day jblmmwr.com Paine Field Aviation Day painefield.com U District Streetfair udistrictstreetfair.org Memorial Day Parade in Mill Creek | cityofmillcreek.com Bellevue Jazz & Blues Festival bellevuedowntown.com