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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.

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

This month, we’re seeing a continued shift toward a more balanced housing market - one that rewards home preparation, pricing strategy, and local knowledge.

Whether you’re a homeowner with lots of equity, a recent retiree considering your next step, or helping manage a loved one’s estate, I’m hopeful you’ll find something useful here.

Let’s dive in!

Local Housing Market

Snohomish County Housing Market Health Check

The market continues to move with quiet strength and more balance. Here's where things stood as of the end of July 2025:

• Average Sale Price: $831K (up from $817K in July 2024)

• Average Days on Market: 28 (was 19 one year ago)

• Homes for Sale: 2,439 (up from 1,717 in July 2024)

• New Listings: 1,420

• Sale-to-List Price: 99% (homes on average sell for 1% below original asking price)

• Price/Sq. Ft: $429

Read the full August 2025 real estate and housing update here.

What it means:

• Homes are taking longer to sell, but prices remain stable

• Buyers have more choices, and sellers need a strong pricing & marketing strategy

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.

With more homes hitting the market, it’s no longer enough to simply list and wait. Homes that sell quickly and for top dollar today are priced right, look great online and off, and are backed by a clear strategy.

✅ What you can do this month:

• Get a home value estimate or CMA from a certified appraiser or Licensed Real Estate Agent.

• Identify easy upgrades that improve appeal.

• Ask about your local market’s inventory and days on market for your specific location (this data varies by state, county, zip, and even neighborhood!).

If you have questions about preparing your home, let’s talk!

Seniors

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

If you’re recently retired, an empty nester, or someone who’s nearly paid off their mortgage, you may be wondering:

• Is now the time to sell?

• Should I downsize?

• What are my options?

The truth? There is no one-size-fits-all answer - but there is a great way to explore your options.

I work with clients in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond who are exploring their "next chapter" and want clarity around how their home fits into their retirement goals. Whether you’re ready to right-size, relocate, or stay put and plan for the future, I can help you evaluate:

• What your home is worth now

• The tax and equity implications of selling

• Rental income potential if you keep it

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.

This Month’s Tip: Who decides what happens to the house in probate?

In most cases, the executor (or personal representative) has the legal authority to handle the real estate - whether that means maintaining it, preparing it for sale, or transferring it to heirs. However, state laws and the will’s language matter. If you’re unsure what to do with a property in probate, I can help guide you and connect you with the right professionals.

Vacant Lots, Acreage & Raw Land

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

This month, we're focusing on a common question: "Should I sell to a traditional buyer or a developer?"

The answer depends on your land's zoning, access to utilities, and condition. If your lot has future subdivision potential, it might attract small-scale builders or investors. If it's a move-in-ready homestead, you'll likely attract lifestyle buyers looking for space, privacy, or flexibility.

Not sure what your zoning is? I can pull a quick report and show you your options.

Finances

💵 Financial Smarts: Tips for Retirees & Homeowners

If you’re recently retired, an empty nester, or you’ve nearly paid off your mortgage, you might be sitting on substantial home equity - in many cases 70 to 100% of your property’s value.

As of July 2025, the average homeowner in Snohomish County has seen their home appreciate roughly 6 to 8% year-over-year over the past three years. That equity can be a powerful tool in your retirement plan.

Some Options to consider if considering moving into a smaller and lower maintenance home and yard.

1. Sell & downsize

2. Keep your home & generate income

3. Leverage equity without selling

Key questions to consider:
- What is your home worth now?
- How would selling affect your taxes?
- What lifestyle or income needs do you want to meet?

If you’d like to see your own custom equity and income analysis, I can run the numbers so you know exactly how your property fits into your retirement strategy - before you make a move.

Things to do

🎉 Things to Do in Snohomish County this Month

Evergreen State Fair (Monroe) – Aug 22 to Sept 2
Live music, livestock shows, classic carnival rides, and local food vendors. A summer must-do!

• Movies Under the Stars (Everett Parks) – Every Friday
  Bring a blanket and the family for free outdoor movies at rotating park locations.

• Lake Stevens Farmers Market – Wednesdays 3-7pm
  Fresh produce, handmade goods, and live entertainment on the lakefront.

• Car Shows:

  • Relay for Life (Tulalip) - August 17th

  • Car Show (Angel of the Winds) - August 24th
    

• 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, or another trusted service provider.

August Trusted Pro: The Door House - Everett, WA
The Door House has been in business for 40 years and they are one company I’ve repeatedly used over the last 30 years for my personal homes, rentals, and real estate clients.

They offer free estimates and specialize in new garage doors / replacements, repairs, and new garage door openers & installation.

📍 Location: 2710 Hewitt Ave, Everett, WA 98201
📧 Contact: (425) 247-3372, [email protected]
www.thebestdoorhouse.com

If you’re in need of a garage door alignment, new door, or opener, The Door House is a great option to at least request a free estimate from!

Around your home

Home Safety & Maintenance

I recently did a home electrical charger “audit” and we have A LOT of chargers - for laptops, phones, tablets, and watches. In the garage, we have chargers for a battery powered trimmer, mower, blower, kids hoverboards, bike headlights, and of course my Onewheel!😀 

In this day and age, where battery power has become the norm, “vampire” energy consumption is something to consider and monitor. The average household pays approximately $100 per year for “vampire” consumption according to SaveOnEnerty.com

According to electricians and experts, chargers sip small amounts of power, and over time, add costs to your electrical bill. Unplugging (or using a switchable power strip/smart plug) helps cut “vampire” energy and reduces fire risk - especially with cheap or damaged chargers.

Recommendation - set up a single charging station and make unplugging part of your routine.

Read the full article here: Better Homes & Gardens. bhg.com