King County Real Estate: A Guide for Washington State Residents
Understanding the Current King County Real Estate Market
As of December 2025, the King County real estate market presents unique opportunities for tech professionals and homebuyers in the Greater Seattle area. With a median home price of $889,250 (a +2.7% change year-over-year), the market is experiencing what experts call a "Great Housing Reset" - a shift from the frenzied conditions of 2021-2022 to a more balanced, strategic environment.
Homes in King County are spending an average of 24 days on the market, with inventory levels up +25.64% compared to last year. This translates to approximately 2.82 months of supply, providing buyers with more options and negotiating power than in recent years.
Key Market Metrics for December 2025
| Metric | Current Value | Year-Over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $889,250 | +2.7% |
| Average Days on Market | 24 days | Stable |
| Inventory Levels | 2.82 months | +25.64% |
| Price per Square Foot | $488 | Modest increase |
The Split Market Phenomenon
One of the most significant trends in the Greater Seattle area is the emergence of a "split market." Homes priced below $675,000 are experiencing softer demand, averaging 35-45 days on market and often selling below asking price. These properties typically include condos, townhomes, or smaller single-family homes in less central locations.
Conversely, homes above $675,000 - particularly those in desirable neighborhoods near tech employment centers - are selling in an average of 15-20 days, frequently with multiple offers. This segment includes most single-family homes in prime locations throughout King County.
Current Mortgage Rate Environment
Mortgage rates have stabilized in the low-to-mid 6% range as of December 2025, a significant improvement from the 7%+ rates seen in 2023. Current rates include:
- 30-Year Fixed: 5.99% - 6.58%
- 15-Year Fixed: 5.25% - 5.96%
- FHA Loans: 5.625% - 5.99%
- VA Loans: 5.39% - 6.26%
- Jumbo Loans: 6.00% - 6.51%
For a $720,000 loan (80% of the median price), the difference between 7% and 6.2% is approximately $350 per month - $4,200 annually. This rate stabilization has restored buyer confidence and increased pre-approvals, particularly in the $700K-$1.3M buyer segment popular among tech professionals.
Strategic Considerations for Tech Professionals
Working in the technology sector provides unique advantages when navigating the King County real estate market. Here's what you need to know:
Leveraging Your Compensation Package
- Stock Options and RSUs: Many lenders now understand tech compensation and will count a portion of vested equity toward qualifying income.
- Signing Bonuses: These can be excellent sources for down payments. Some lenders require bonuses to be "seasoned" in your account for 60 days.
- Relocation Packages: Understand what your employer covers - temporary housing, closing costs, or loss-on-sale guarantees.
- Employee Benefits: Some major tech employers offer mortgage assistance programs or partnerships with lenders.
Market Outlook and Timing Your Purchase
According to recent forecasts for the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro area, home values are projected to see near-flat to modest growth of +0.1% to +3-5% through 2026. This stabilization represents an affordability ceiling rather than a market crash.
Key Market Trends to Watch
- Split market: homes under $675K moving slower, above $675K selling quickly
- Inventory at highest sustained level in years
- Market experiencing 'Great Housing Reset' - shift from urgency to selectivity
- Strong tech employment supporting housing demand
- Near-flat price growth forecast for 2026 (+0.1% to +3-5%)
Why Choose Odigo Club
At Odigo Club, we specialize in helping tech professionals navigate the King County real estate market. Our agents understand your unique needs, from evaluating stock-based compensation to finding neighborhoods that match your lifestyle and career trajectory.
We provide:
- Exclusive Market Access: Off-market listings and early access to new properties
- Data-Driven Analysis: Real-time market data and neighborhood insights
- Tech-Savvy Lenders: Connections to mortgage professionals who understand equity compensation
- Negotiation Expertise: Proven strategies for winning in competitive situations
- Comprehensive Support: Guidance throughout the entire buying process and beyond
Ready to start your real estate journey in King County? Contact Odigo Club today to connect with an agent who understands the tech professional's path to homeownership. Visit www.odigoclub.com or call us to schedule a consultation.
About the Author
Peter Kim
Peter Kim is the owner of Odigo Real Estate Club, a leading real estate agency in the Greater Seattle area that specializes in residential, commercial, and luxury properties. With over 10 years of experience and a team of highly skilled agents, Peter brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the real estate space.
