Seattle home sellers double down on buyer incentives

Seattle homebuyers have gained significant leverage, with over 71% of sellers in the metro area offering financial sweeteners in early 2025, a notable increase from 36. 4% the previous year. This trend addresses rising inventory and high home prices amid economic uncertainty. Redfin agent Stephanie Kastner highlighted that concessions are common among condos and new construction townhomes, which struggle with soaring HOA fees. Nationally, the share of sellers offering concessions reached over 44%, nearly a record high across 24 analyzed metros.

In Washington, 24 of 26 counties reported double-digit increases in inventory this year, contributing to a 47% rise in active listings year-over-year, totaling 14,500 in April. The counties with the highest inventory increases include Snohomish and King. Following Seattle, Portland saw a 14-point rise in seller concessions to 64%. Many sellers are reducing asking prices and offering concessions, though some deals are falling through.