Monthly roundup

Newsletter Overview

Welcome to the September 2025 edition of my revamped monthly newsletter, where I share market insights, helpful resources, and practical tips on the Snohomish County real estate market.

The Snohomish County housing market showed another step toward balance in August. Prices ticked up slightly, but homes are taking a bit longer to sell and sellers are adjusting expectations — reminding us just how important preparation, presentation, and pricing remain.

Whether you’re thinking about tapping into your equity, exploring downsizing or retirement options, or navigating the sale of a family property, this month’s update is designed to give you clarity and confidence.

To my longtime readers, thank you again for following along each month. And to those joining for the first time — welcome aboard! I’m glad you’re here!

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I send out this newsletter each month to provide helpful real estate insights and data focused on Snohomish County and the surrounding areas. Everything here is pulled from the MLS and supplemented with trusted and reputable sources along with my own local perspective.

Of course if you find it helpful, feel free to forward it to a friend or family member - sharing is always appreciated!

Now let’s dive into September data!

Local Housing Market

Snohomish County Housing Market Health Check

The summer market is cooling off slightly from the spring peak (this is normal), but prices remain strong and inventory is climbing. Here’s how August 2025 shaped up:

• Average Sale Price: $854K (up from $841K in July)

• Average Days on Market: 26 (was 21 in July)

• Homes for Sale (Existing): 875 (down slightly from 927 in July)

• New Listings: 574 (down from 681 in July)

• Final Sale vs. Original List Price: 97.6% (homes sell about 2.4% under their first list, down from 98.4% in July)

  👉 Read the full September 2025 real estate and housing update here.

✨ Curious what these numbers mean for your home or neighborhood? Every property is unique — reach out anytime and I’ll provide a custom market analysis tailored to you.

Want neighborhood-specific data? Visit my data dashboard →

Sellers

Selling Smart: Tips for Potential Sellers

If you’re even thinking about selling your home in the next 6 to 18 months, now’s the time to start planning.

1. Price It Right the First Time
Overpricing can cause your home to sit on the market, leading to price cuts and buyer skepticism. A well-researched, competitive list price generates stronger interest and often better offers.

2. First Impressions Sell
Curb appeal matters. Simple upgrades like fresh mulch, trimmed landscaping, and a new front door mat make a big difference. A buyer’s decision often begins at the curb.

3. Light, Bright, and Inviting
Maximize natural light by opening blinds, cleaning windows, and using warm, neutral paint colors. Homes that feel bright and open photograph much better and generally attract more buyers.

4. Stage for Success
Declutter, depersonalize, and arrange furniture to highlight each room’s best features. Professionally staged homes often sell faster and for more money — but even DIY staging pays off.

5. Be Flexible with Showings
The more accessible your home is to potential buyers, the quicker it will sell. Try to accommodate evening or weekend showings, and keep your home “show ready.”

6. Market Beyond the MLS
Today’s buyers search on social media, Zillow, Redfin, and even neighborhood Facebook groups. A multi-channel marketing plan ensures your home gets maximum exposure.

7. Don’t Go It Alone
Selling a home is both emotional and financial. An experienced local agent brings market knowledge, negotiation skills, and a proven marketing strategy to help you sell faster and smarter.

👉 Thinking about selling? Even if it’s six months, or a year away, planning early can help you maximize your home’s value. I’d be happy to provide a custom plan tailored to your timeline.

Seniors

Senior Spotlight: Real Estate for Retirees & Equity-Rich Homeowners

Retirement often brings a new set of priorities. Maybe it’s reducing maintenance, cutting costs, or freeing up equity to enjoy travel, family, or hobbies. For many longtime homeowners in Snohomish and Skagit Counties, the home they’ve lived in for decades holds untapped opportunity.

Here are a few smart moves to consider:

• Right size, don’t just downsize: 
  The right move isn’t always smaller — it’s about comfort, accessibility, and location.
  

• Tap your equity strategically: 
  Whether through selling, renting part of your home, or exploring an ADU/DADU build, your home can become a financial tool.
  

• Plan for lifestyle, not just space: 
  A shorter commute, walkable amenities, or a single-level layout can add quality to your retirement years.

💡 Tip: The earlier you explore your options, the more flexibility you’ll have. Planning now can help you maximize equity and reduce stress when you’re ready to make a change.

Let’s put a plan together that fits your life.

Probate

Probate Property Corner 

Losing a loved one is hard enough. Managing their property shouldn’t make it harder.

Each month, I share a quick tip or insight into the probate process - because knowledge is power when you're navigating a complex estate.

⚖️ Probate Property Corner: What Happens to a Home’s Mortgage in Probate?

Many families are surprised to learn that a mortgage doesn’t simply disappear when a loved one passes away. Instead, the loan is tied to the property, and payments must continue during probate.

Here’s what to know:

• Responsibility: The estate is typically responsible for making ongoing mortgage payments until the home is sold or transferred.
  

• Options: Heirs can choose to sell the property, refinance, or sometimes assume the existing loan (depending on lender terms).
  

• Risk of Inaction: Missed payments can lead to foreclosure, adding stress to an already difficult process.

💡 Tip: Stay in close contact with the lender early in probate. Clear and timely communication can prevent complications and provide the family valuable time to make decisions.

Vacant Lots, Acreage & Raw Land

Considering Selling Acreage or Raw Land? Here’s What You Need to Know.

Selling land is very different from selling a home. Buyers often look beyond the view or location — they want to know what can (and can’t) be built on the property.

Key factors that influence value:

• Zoning & Permits: Determines whether the land can be used for residential, agricultural, or commercial purposes.

• Access & Utilities: A parcel with paved road access, power, and water is far more attractive than one without.

• Topography & Environmental Issues: Steep slopes, wetlands, or timber value can all impact price and buyer interest.
  

• Marketability: Proper signage, aerial photos, and a clear marketing plan are critical — land buyers shop differently than home buyers.

💡 Tip: Get ahead of questions by ordering a feasibility study, soil test / evaluation, and/or a perc test before listing. The more answers you provide up front, the more confident buyers will feel making an offer.

Finances

💵 Financial Smarts: Tips for Retirees & Homeowners

As interest rates remain elevated and housing costs continue to shift, it’s a good time to take stock of your financial picture — especially if you’re a retiree or a longtime homeowner sitting on significant equity.

Three smart moves this fall:

• Review Your Mortgage or HELOC: If you opened a line of credit years ago, check the terms. Rising rates may make refinancing or locking in a fixed product a smarter play.

• Put Your Equity to Work: Equity doesn’t just have to sit in your walls. Whether it’s funding home improvements, covering healthcare costs, or helping family, consider the best use of your wealth.

• Plan for Taxes Early: Property taxes and insurance renewals often climb quietly. Building these into your budget now can prevent surprises later.

💡 Tip: A quick annual review of your housing-related finances can uncover savings and ensure you’re making the most of your hard-earned equity.

Things to do

🎉 Things to Do in Snohomish County this Month

• Snohomish Art Walk
  On September 25, the historic downtown Snohomish comes alive with galleries, shops, and studios open late. Perfect time to explore local art, enjoy some coffee or dinner in town. Snohomish

• Snohomish Arts Community Studio Tour
  Sept 27–28, drive around to see local artists’ studios, get a behind-the-scenes look, and maybe find a piece you love. Snohomish

• Snohomish Farmers Market
  Runs through October 30. Great for fresh local produce, artisan crafts, meeting neighbors, and enjoying a late-summer vibe. Snohomish

• Pumpkin Patch & Hay Maze at Swans Trail Farms
  It’s fall, so farms are opening up for pumpkins, farm activities, hayrides, and photo ops. Swans Trail is a favorite. Swans Trail Farms

• Fall Walks & Nature Spots
  If you're craving peaceful scenery, try:

  • Jennings Memorial Park in Marysville — paved trails, pond/wetland views. Seattle North Country

  • Lowell Rotary Park in Everett — mix of river views, open fields, woods. Seattle North Country

  • Lord Hill Regional Park — bigger hikes, wildlife, trails for biking or walking.

Know of a great local event? Send it my way and I’ll feature it!

Pro of the month

Trusted Local Pro of the Month

Each month I try to spotlight a professional or company I’ve personally worked with and can confidently recommend - whether it’s a plumber, painter, lawyer, financial advisor, real estate agent, or another trusted service provider.

September Trusted Pro:

Anna Herrera - New Mexico Real Estate Agent.
Anna is a REALTOR and a fellow Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) located in New Mexico.

If you or someone you know is considering a move to beautiful New Mexico, Anna would be a great resource! Here’s a bit about Anna and her take on the amazing state of New Mexico.

Hello from the Land of Enchantment! I’m Anna, a dedicated real estate professional and proud Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) serving Albuquerque and the surrounding areas - including Corrales, Placitas, Rio Rancho, Bernalillo, the East Mountains/Estancia Basin, and most of Valencia County. While my focus is in the central region, I’m licensed to assist with real estate needs anywhere in New Mexico. 

New Mexico continues to attract people from across the country with its vibrant culture, slower pace of life, affordability, and incredible natural beauty-from high desert sunsets to mountain trails just minutes away. Whether people are relocating for retirement, family, or a fresh start, it’s easy to see why so many fall in love with living here.

My background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Education and nearly a decade working in the senior living industry. These experiences help me better guide clients - especially those navigating major life transitions - with care, patience, and clarity. I love helping people through real estate, and I’m honored to walk alongside my clients every step of the way.

In today’s market, having a knowledgeable advocate matters more than ever. As of July 2025, the Albuquerque area has seen an increase in both the average days on market and inventory compared to this time last year. Detached homes are now spending an average of 34 days on the market (up from 29 days), and inventory has risen to 2,098 (up from 1,623) - a sign of subtle shifts in local market dynamics. 

When I’m not working, you’ll find me being a mom, practicing yoga, playing piano, singing in the car, or playing with my pets - Moana the cat and Bear the dog. I love listening to podcasts on the road, catching New Mexico’s breathtaking sunsets, and winding down under the stars. 

I encourage anyone considering a visit to New Mexico to think about attending the International Balloon Fiesta in October, trying our amazing chile and traditional New Mexican food, and riding the famous Sandia Peak Tram - ask me how to get 4 free tram passes!

Get in touch with Anna:

ANNA HERRERA
REALTOR® | Senior Real Estate Specialist®
Coldwell Banker Legacy
(505) 508-9805 
[email protected]

Around your home

Home Safety & Maintenance

With cooler evenings and fall right around the corner, many of us will be using fireplaces, space heaters, and furnaces again soon. Now is the perfect time to test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

Quick checklist:

• Test alarms in every bedroom and on each level of your home.

• Replace batteries (or the entire unit if it’s over 10 years old).

• Vacuum the exterior to remove dust.

• Make sure everyone in the household knows the sound and your escape plan.

💡 Tip: Consider upgrading to smart detectors that send alerts to your phone for extra peace of mind — especially useful if you travel often or own rental properties.