If the housing market in your area feels like a rollercoaster right now—you’re not imagining it. Depending on where you live, the market might be heating up or cooling off. In fact, 2025 is shaping up to be a “tale of two markets”—some neighborhoods are favoring buyers, while others still strongly benefit sellers.
That’s why understanding local trends is more important than ever, whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or both.
What’s the Difference Between a Buyer’s and Seller’s Market?
In short, it all comes down to supply and demand:
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In a buyer’s market, there are more homes for sale than there are buyers. That gives buyers the upper hand, with more room to negotiate and less pressure to compete.
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In a seller’s market, there are fewer homes available, and lots of eager buyers. That typically leads to faster sales, multiple offers, and stronger sale prices.
So, Where Does Your Area Stand?
Let’s break it down by region. According to recent data from Redfin:
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The Northeast and Midwest are still leaning toward seller’s markets, with low inventory and strong demand.
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Meanwhile, the South and West—including several areas here in Washington like Tacoma, Puyallup, Auburn, Bonney Lake, Lake Tapps, Sumner, Des Moines, SeaTac, Burien, and Normandy Park—are showing signs of becoming more buyer-friendly. That means more listings, slower price growth, and greater flexibility for buyers.
But keep in mind: even within the same region, different cities—and even neighborhoods—can have vastly different conditions. For example, while Tacoma might be cooling slightly, nearby Bonney Lake or Normandy Park could still be highly competitive for buyers.
Price Trends Reflect Local Supply and Demand
When buyer activity and home inventory shift, price trends follow. In hot markets like parts of the Midwest, prices are still ticking upward. But in markets with growing inventory and slower buyer demand, prices are flattening—or even falling slightly.
According to the latest from ResiClub, nearly half of the top 50 U.S. metro areas are seeing price increases, while the rest are holding steady or dipping. The key takeaway? This isn’t a national trend—it’s a local one.
Why Working with a Local Agent Matters
Navigating a housing market like this takes more than general advice—you need a local expert who knows your community, zip code, and even street-level trends.
A trusted real estate professional can help you:
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Determine whether your area favors buyers or sellers
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Price your home accurately for your specific market
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Create a smart strategy for buying or selling in your local conditions
Whether you're in Burien, SeaTac, or considering a move to Puyallup, the best place to start is by having a personalized conversation with someone who understands your goals and the market.
Ready To Make a Move?
No matter the market, having the right strategy—and the right partner—makes all the difference. Start planning your next step with a local expert who knows the ins and outs of buying and selling homes in Greater Seattle and surrounding cities.
