The real estate market across the United States has been in a state of transition over the past few years. Nationally, the market is gradually balancing after the intense bidding wars and rapid price increases seen during the height of the pandemic. While interest rates remain a consideration for many buyers, the current market offers more options and time to make thoughtful decisions, signaling a healthier pace for both buyers and sellers.
Looking closer to home, Washington State mirrors this national trend, with inventory slowly increasing and homes spending more time on the market compared to previous years. This gives buyers more breathing room to explore options while sellers can still expect steady demand, particularly for well-maintained and strategically priced homes.
In Skagit and Island Counties, the local market shows a similar pattern. Months of inventory have grown steadily over the past few years, indicating more choices for buyers: Skagit now has 3.7 months of inventory (up from 2.0 in 2022) and Island County sits at 4.4 months (up from 1.7 in 2022). Homes are also taking slightly longer to sell, with days on market increasing to 20 in Skagit and 28 in Island County.
Despite these changes, the market remains strong. Closed sales in October 2025 are showing signs of stability, with Skagit at 1,642 and Island at 1,476—numbers comparable to recent years. Meanwhile, average sales prices continue to rise, reflecting sustained value in the region: Skagit homes averaged $615,298, and Island homes reached $642,988.
For buyers, this means more options and less pressure than the hyper-competitive market of past years, while sellers can take comfort knowing that homes in desirable locations continue to hold strong value. Both buyers and sellers can approach the market with confidence, guided by the steady trends and local expertise.
Bottom line: The market is shifting toward balance, offering opportunities for thoughtful decision-making. Whether you’re buying or selling, staying informed and working with a knowledgeable local agent can help you navigate today’s market successfully.
