Nationally, builder incentives have challenged the long-held belief that new homes always cost more per square foot, creating fresh value comparisons for buyers weighing options.
The shift reflected two supply pressures: builders needed to move completed homes, while many owners stayed put, keeping existing inventory tighter and resale competition firmer.
For much of the previous decade, new homes usually carried a premium, but market conditions flipped that pattern as builders cut prices and expanded incentives.
The key takeaway for buyers: negotiation power is strongest where builders hold enough inventory, while areas with scarce construction can still favor resale sellers.
Looking ahead, buyer leverage may depend on how permitting and construction progress, because the current discount could narrow if new-home building slows.

Halloween falls on October 31 because the ancient Gaelic festival of Samhain, considered the earliest known root of Halloween, occurred on this day.
In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to praise all saints.
Soon, All Saints' Day incorporated some traditions of Samhain and the evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween.
Over time, Halloween evolved into a day of activities like trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes and eating treats.
Today’s the day to eat candies and sweets to your heart’s content! Happy Halloween!

Interesting shift in the Seattle housing scene: around 24% of active listings here have had price cuts in the past four weeks, placing Seattle among the top twelve metros nationwide for price reductions. That’s about a 4-point increase compared to last year, as more sellers are adjusting to the realities of today’s market. With mortgage rates moving above 7% late in the third quarter and settling in the mid-7% range, it’s taking longer for homes to sell—giving buyers more breathing room. As someone who values patience and thoughtful decisions (maybe that’s the teacher in me), I notice more sellers are recalibrating their expectations with higher borrowing costs and economic uncertainty. This trend is making Seattle’s market a bit more buyer-friendly, as sellers trim prices and listings stay available longer. It’s a reminder that adaptability matters, whether you’re navigating a classroom or a changing market.

After years as a teacher, I’ve seen how life transitions—especially big ones like selling a longtime home—require patience and understanding, not pressure. For older homeowners in the US, selling a home often means letting go of a place filled with family memories, independence, and community ties. With today’s market moving slower and mortgage rates over 7%, it’s easy to feel rushed by fast sales systems. But for many, what matters most is having time to sort through belongings, make repairs at their own pace, and truly understand each step. I believe every seller deserves clear guidance, control, and the confidence that every decision is truly theirs. Whether it’s confirming who needs to be involved or bringing in professionals for legal or health matters, thoughtful support makes all the difference. Technology can help, but compassion and clear communication are just as important—especially when a home means so much more than walls and a roof.

Energy efficiency is quickly becoming a top priority for buyers and renters here in WA, and it's easy to see why. According to a new report, people are thinking carefully about how comfort, running costs, and year-round performance factor into their property decisions—shifting attention from just location and curb appeal to what truly makes a home livable and affordable long-term. Two out of four case studies in the report spotlighted WA homes, showing that energy-efficient features can give properties a real edge when it comes to valuation, marketing, and comparison.

As someone who’s helped hundreds of clients navigate the Puget Sound real estate landscape, I’ve seen firsthand how factors like energy ratings and performance details are becoming essential conversation points. With new disclosure requirements likely on the horizon, these features will only grow in importance. For both buyers and sellers, understanding a home’s energy profile isn’t just a trend—it’s becoming a key part of making informed, confident decisions in our market.

Across the Puget Sound and beyond, new construction homes are becoming an increasingly compelling value—something I see firsthand with buyers weighing their options. Builders are responding to today’s limited resale inventory by offering price reductions and creative incentives, like mortgage rate buydowns. These are advantages that most resale sellers simply can’t match right now. In areas with more new construction activity, we’re witnessing increased affordability and a wider range of choices for buyers, as competition among builders heats up. It’s a reminder to compare both new and resale homes carefully, since incentives and pricing can tip the scales in surprising ways. However, with permitting slowing in some markets, these affordability gains might not last. Continued building and streamlined local policies will be key to maintaining options for homebuyers. My role as your advisor is to ensure you have a clear view of all possibilities, so you can make the best move for your needs—whether that’s a brand-new home or a beloved classic.