Five Reasons Spring 2026 Is a Great Time to Buy on Seattle’s Eastside
Every year as winter fades and the Pacific Northwest starts to bloom, the Seattle real estate market begins to wake up. As a local real estate broker, I always look forward to spring because it’s one of the most exciting—and strategic—times to buy a home in the greater Seattle area. This year, spring is shaping up to be especially promising for buyers! Here are a few things to consider, as we head into the next few months:
Mortgage Rates Are Finally Easing
One of the biggest reasons buyers took pause over the past couple of years was higher mortgage rates, but we’ve seen some very encouraging changes in recent months! As of early 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is around 6%, even dipping below that mark for the first time since 2022. Rates are significantly down from the nearly 7.8% peak seen in late 2023. Even a small drop in rates can make a meaningful difference in monthly payments, and it’s already bringing many buyers back into the market!
More Homes Are Coming on the Market
Spring also tends to bring more listings—and that’s exactly what we’re seeing this year according to the NWMLS. Across Western Washington, active housing inventory has increased by nearly 28% year-over-year, giving buyers more choices than they’ve had in recent seasons. More homes on the market means buyers can take a little more time to explore neighborhoods, compare properties, and find the right fit without feeling quite as rushed as they may during ultra-competitive times.
Spring in Seattle Is Simply Magical
One of the things I love most about helping clients buy homes in the Seattle area during spring is the lifestyle they get to experience immediately after moving in. The greater Seattle area truly comes alive this time of year! Cherry blossoms and other blooms bring so much beauty to the region, the days get longer, and locals are out and about again. Some classic spring activities around Greater Seattle include:
Visiting the blooming cherry trees at the University of Washington Quad
Walking or biking along the Sammamish River Trail or Burke Gilman Trail
Exploring farmers markets as they reopen for the season
Hiking in the Cascades while waterfalls are at their most dramatic from snowmelt
Living around Seattle means you’re never far from the excitement of the city or the peaceful beauty of nature.
A Strong Economy Continues to Support the Market
Seattle’s housing market has long been supported by a strong job market, especially in the tech sector. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google continue to bring talented professionals to the region, which helps maintain long-term demand for housing. While the market may fluctuate year to year, the fundamentals that make Seattle a desirable place to live remain incredibly strong.
Why Buyers Should Pay Attention This Spring
In my experience, the sweet spot for buyers often happens when three things align:
Interest rates are stabilizing or declining
Inventory is increasing
Buyer competition hasn’t fully surged yet
That’s exactly the kind of environment we’re starting to see as we head into spring. For buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines, this season could present an opportunity to enter the market with more options and improving financing conditions!
Thinking About Buying This Year?
Whether you’re relocating to the Seattle area or looking for your next home locally, spring is a wonderful time to explore the market and see what’s available. If you’re curious about neighborhoods, market trends, or what your buying power looks like in today’s market, I’d love to help guide you through the process.
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Hardy Realty