Why the First 7 Days Matter More Than Ever in Snohomish County Real Estate

Stats by Kat – April 2025

In today’s evolving market, timing is everything—and if you’re planning to sell in Snohomish County, the first week your home hits the market is still the most critical window for success.

Even with higher interest rates and a shifting economy, Western Washington remains a highly desirable region fueled by strong job markets and lifestyle appeal. But the pace of the market has changed, and making the right first impression has never been more important.

What the Latest Data Shows

I analyzed NWMLS data for homes listed in Snohomish County between January 1 and February 12, 2025—and the numbers tell a clear story:

• 49% of homes went under contract in the first 7 days.
• Only 10% went under contract in week two.
• 8% in week three.
• 3% in weeks four, five, six and seven.
• Just 1% in week eight.

As you can see from the graph, the likelihood of selling quickly plummets after the first week. Buyer attention is at its peak when a home first hits the market—making your launch strategy absolutely critical.

How Sellers Can Win in This Market

If you're preparing to list your home, here’s how to maximize your momentum right out of the gate:

Perfect the First Impression:
Fresh landscaping, clean driveways and walkways, and sparkling windows make your home stand out immediately.

Prep Like a Pro:
Deep clean interiors, repaint where needed, and complete any minor repairs before your home is photographed.

Stage for Success:
Professional staging helps buyers emotionally connect with the space—and staged homes statistically sell faster and for more money.

Price Strategically:
Accurate, competitive pricing from day one will drive urgency and create the best conditions for strong offers.

Maximize Exposure:
Allow open houses, leverage digital marketing, and capitalize on that crucial first week when buyer interest is highest.

The Bottom Line

Your first 7 days on the market are not just important—they’re everything. Waiting to “test the market” often leads to price reductions, lower offers, and missed opportunities.

If you're thinking about selling this spring or summer, let's connect and build a tailored plan to position your home for success—right from day one.

Snohomish County Real Estate Market Insight: April 2025

As spring unfolds, Snohomish County’s housing market continues to show signs of transition. While inventory is growing, demand remains steady, resulting in a market that is still competitive for well-positioned listings.

Inventory on the Rise
Snohomish County’s months of inventory increased to 1.1 months. Last week, 182 new listings were added—a welcome sign for buyers who have been waiting for more selection.

Strong Year-Over-Year Growth
Comparing March 2025 to March 2024:

·        New listings rose 33%

·        Total homes for sale jumped 75%

·        Homes under contract increased 22%

This year-over-year growth points to renewed market energy as both buyers and sellers re-engage this season.

Offer Review Strategies Still Effective
41% of sellers are utilizing Offer Review Dates (ORDs) to attract multiple offers and streamline negotiations. From April 18th to 24th:

·       36% of listings that went under contract received multiple offers.

·       32% included an inspection contingency.

·       64% included a financing addendum.

Homes Are Still Moving Quickly
Speed remains a defining feature of the market:

·        52% of homes listed April 6–12 were under contract in 7 days or less.

·        53% of homes listed March 23–April 5 were pending within 14 days.

Closed sale data:

·        Average days on market: 15

·        Median days on market: 5

·        50% of homes sold above asking

·        18% sold for 5%+ over asking

·        8% sold for 10%+

·        2% sold for 15%+

·        1% sold for 20%+

·        24% sold for less than list price

Final Thoughts
While inventory is increasing, buyer demand remains solid. Sellers with well-prepared, well-priced homes are still achieving top-dollar results. Buyers will have more choices as we move through spring into early summer.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read this version of Stats by Kat. Please feel free to reach out. I value your questions and comments! And don’t forget to follow me on Social Media (links are below), as the most up to date information on our real estate market will also be covered in my most recent videos. And check out a variety of playlists on my YouTube Channel.

Tips for Sellers & Buyers

Since I’ve started creating content in 2023, I’ve put together several hundred videos to help Buyers and Sellers navigate our local real estate market. Here are a couple of the more popular Playlists:

Real Estate Tips for Sellers

Real Estate Tips for Buyers

Katherine Howard | Broker
Windermere Real Estate/HLC
13901 NE 175th Street | Suite 100
Woodinville, WA 98072