Market Momentum Pauses After a Strong Start to the Year. Seattle’s Eastside Market Update 1-28-26

🏡 Market Momentum Pauses After a Strong Start to the Year
Seattle’s Eastside Real Estate Update 01-28-26
Hosted by Tony Meier, Windermere Real Estate
37 years experience | 779 closed Eastside sales

The Eastside market delivered an important reminder this week: momentum rarely moves in a straight line. After last week’s sharp tightening, we saw a modest pullback that highlights why experience, preparation, and clear strategy matter — especially when conditions shift quickly.

Here’s what this week’s data is telling us across Seattle’s Eastside.
📉 Interest Rates
Rates are down 0.91% year over year, now sitting at 6.16%.
Lower rates continue to support buyer activity, but they are not creating reckless behavior. Buyers are still careful, informed, and focused on value — which rewards smart positioning on both sides of the transaction.

🏘 Active Listings
Active listings are up 6% from last week and up 60% from a year ago.
Inventory remains elevated compared to last winter, giving buyers choices — but not all listings are equal. Homes that are priced and presented well continue to separate quickly.

✍️ Pending Sales
Pending sales are down 9% from last week, but still up 15% year over year.
This cooling follows a strong burst of activity earlier in the month. Buyers are still engaged, just more selective, reinforcing the importance of timing and guidance.

⏳ Months of Inventory
Months of Inventory moved up to 1.53, from 1.32 last week, and is up 39% year over year.
This remains a seller leaning environment, but it is no longer forgiving of mistakes. Precision matters — and so does understanding when to push and when to protect position.

💰 Closed Sales Price
The rolling 30 day median sold price is $1,475,500, down 2% from last week and down 16% year over year.
This reflects a market where buyers are negotiating thoughtfully, and sellers who align price with current demand continue to win.

✨ For Sellers
Inventory growth reminds us that today’s market rewards preparation, not optimism. Homes that feel turnkey, are priced accurately, and launch with a clear plan still draw serious buyers. Strategy — not timing alone — determines outcome.

💼 For Buyers
With rates nearly one percent lower than last year and more inventory available, this remains a window for opportunity. The advantage goes to buyers who are decisive, well advised, and ready to act when the right home appears.

📌 Communities Covered
Bellevue | Redmond | Kirkland | Woodinville | Sammamish | Issaquah | Bothell | Lake Washington | Lake Sammamish

💼 Expertise In
✔ Eastside luxury listings
✔ Strategic market positioning
✔ Pricing and negotiation mastery
✔ Buy and sell coordination
✔ Real-time data insights

If you have any questions while navigating your real estate journey, we’re here to help! Tony Meier & Team – Windermere 🏡 If you need assistance or know someone who does, give us a call at 425-466-1000! 📞

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