If you’re still anxious about running into a bidding war when buying a home, you may be able to breathe a little easier. While multiple-offer situations haven’t disappeared entirely, they’re far less common than they were just a couple of years ago. A recent survey found that only about 1 in 5 homes (20%) nationwide received multiple offers in June 2025. That’s a noticeable drop from nearly 1 in 3 homes (31%) last year—and much lower than June 2023, when 39% of homes faced bidding wars.
What This Means for Buyers
This shift gives buyers some breathing room. You’re less likely to feel rushed, and you may have more opportunities to negotiate on price or terms instead of competing under pressure.
Why Location Still Matters
Of course, national trends only tell part of the story—local conditions play a huge role. For example, areas like Tacoma, Puyallup, Auburn, and Sumner are seeing their own unique dynamics compared to nearby cities such as SeaTac, Des Moines, Burien, Normandy Park, Lake Tapps, and Bonney Lake. Some neighborhoods still experience more competition due to limited housing supply, while others offer more options and flexibility for buyers.
In the Northeast, roughly 1 in 3 homes are still receiving multiple offers. But in the Southeast, that number has dropped to just 6%. The difference often comes down to inventory—when there are fewer homes available, competition naturally heats up.
Sellers Are Offering More Flexibility
Another key change in today’s market is how sellers are adjusting. According to a Redfin report, nearly half of sellers are offering concessions—things like covering part of the buyer’s closing costs or lowering their asking price to secure a deal. A few years ago, buyers often had to waive inspections or appraisals just to compete. Now, it’s much more common to see sellers willing to work with buyers to make the transaction smoother.
The Bottom Line
While bidding wars haven’t vanished, they’re no longer the norm. Buyers in areas across Pierce and King County—from Tacoma to Bonney Lake—are finding more opportunities to negotiate and purchase homes without the intense pressure of the past.
That’s why working with a trusted local real estate expert is so important. If you’re planning to buy or sell in these communities, let’s connect and talk about your options. Visit your real estate story to get started today.
