Understanding market activity over time can help you make informed decisions. This chart shows the number of active versus sold listings each month for 2024. You can see that through April the sold listings outnumber the active listings, then it reverses for the rest of the year. This seasonal pattern is fairly typical. Note that since real estate transactions typically take 30-45 days to close, the closed sales here likely sold (went pending) the previous month and then closed the next month.

🌸 Spring – The Classic Sweet Spot

Spring is traditionally the busiest—and most competitive—season for real estate, especially in areas like Marysville, Stanwood, and the 7 Lakes neighborhood. Buyers are energized, inventory increases, and curb appeal is at its peak with blooming flowers and longer days.

• Pros:
• High buyer demand
• Stronger competition can drive up sale prices
• Homes show better with natural light and greenery
• Considerations:
• More competition from other sellers
• You’ll need to prep and list early (March–April) to take full advantage

🏷️ Homes listed in spring often sell faster and at higher prices.

Want to learn more? Check out our recent blog: Why Spring is the Best Time to Sell Your Home

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☀️ Summer – A Window of Opportunity

Summer can still be a great time to sell, especially early in the season. Families often want to move before the new school year starts, and longer days provide more showing flexibility.

• Pros:
• Motivated buyers trying to close before fall
• Good curb appeal and natural light
• Flexible schedules for showings
• Considerations:
• Some buyers take vacations, slowing momentum mid-season
• Hot weather can make home showings less appealing

🏷️ Expect solid demand, but know there may be more listings to compete with.

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🍂 Fall: Motivated Buyers, Less Inventory

Early fall can be a smart time to sell, particularly for serious buyers who didn’t find a home in spring or summer. With less competition, your listing can stand out more.

• Pros:
• Fewer listings = less competition
• Serious, motivated buyers
• Cozy staging opportunities
• Considerations:
• Shorter days and unpredictable weather can impact showings
• Need to act before the holiday season quiets the market

🏷️ Fall sales may move a bit slower, but you’ll likely face less competition.

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❄️ Winter: Low Inventory, but Fewer Buyers

While winter is typically the slowest season, it’s not without its advantages. Buyers during this time are often highly motivated, and fewer listings mean your home can shine with less competition.

• Pros:
• Less competition from other sellers
• Serious buyers—often relocating or driven by job changes
• Homes decorated for the holidays can feel warm and inviting
• Considerations:
• Slower market overall
• Weather and holidays may limit showing availability
• Curb appeal can suffer in gloomy or snowy conditions

🏷️ Be sure your home is warm, well-lit, and inviting to offset the cold weather.

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🧭 Personal Timing vs Market Timing

While market trends matter, your personal timeline matters more. Life events, job changes, or family needs may influence when you sell more than any season could. And, remember these same factors effect buyers too, so they are out there at all times of the year.

At Penny Kingdom Realty, we help sellers navigate both the best market timing and your best timing.

Whether you’re planning months ahead or considering a quick move, we’ll help you choose the best strategy based on your goals and local market trends. Not sure or have questions? How about a free consultation? You can call, text, email, or schedule a time that works for you by clicking the button below.

Whether you’re thinking months ahead or considering a quicker move, we’ll help you choose the right strategy based on your goals and the current market.

Not quite sure where to start or just have questions? Let’s talk! Schedule a free, no-pressure consultation by clicking the button below—or feel free to call, text, or email anytime.