Best Time of Year to Sell in the Puget Sound & Western WA

A Local Seller’s Guide

One of the most common questions I receive from homeowners is:

“When is the best time of year to sell a home?”

The honest answer: It depends.
Yes, seasonality plays a role, but in the Seattle and greater Puget Sound region, market conditions and preparation often matter more than the month you choose.

This guide breaks down what sellers should know, including timing advantages, seasonal patterns, and how to choose a listing window that aligns with your goals.

Spring: Strong Buyer Activity

March through June is traditionally the most active period in the Puget Sound.
More buyers are house-hunting, and increased competition can benefit sellers.

Pros:

• Higher buyer demand
• Strongest offer activity
• Homes photograph well

Cons:

• More competition from other sellers
• Prep may feel rushed for some homeowners

Summer: High Motivation, Flexible Timelines

July through August can be an excellent time to sell, especially for homes near amenities, commuter routes, and schools.

Pros:

• Buyers want to move before school starts
• Longer daylight for showings
• Great curb appeal

Cons:

• Slight slowdown around holidays or heat waves

Fall: Highly Motivated Buyers

September through mid-November is one of the best-kept secrets in our market.
Inventory typically dips, allowing well-prepared homes to stand out.

Pros:

• Less competition
• Motivated and serious buyers
• Strong pricing for turnkey homes

Cons:

• Shorter daylight hours
• Market pace can vary by neighborhood

Winter: Lower Inventory, But Still Strong Sales

December through February surprises many sellers.
Homes still sell when priced and positioned correctly, and low inventory can drive urgency.

Pros:

• Very low competition
• Relocation buyers often search now
• Motivated offers

Cons:

• Weather can impact curb appeal
• Buyer traffic may vary week to week

So When Should YOU Sell?

The best time to sell is when:

✔ Your home is ready
✔ You are ready
✔ The market conditions support your price range

Rather than waiting for a “perfect month”, the most successful sellers focus on preparation, pricing strategy, and understanding current buyer behavior.

Related resources for sellers:

• Is Now a Good Time to Sell a Home in Seattle?
• How to Choose the Right Listing Price
• What Should I Fix Before Selling My Home?

Ready to Explore the Best Timing for Your Home?

I provide a no-pressure selling plan that aligns with:

• Your timeline
• Your home’s condition
• Local market trends
• Buyer demand at your price point

📩 Request your personalized timing strategy
📍 Seattle, Shoreline, Edmonds, Lynnwood, King County, Snohomoish County, and the Puget Sound region
🤝 Warm, strategic, and tailored guidance