Numbers to Know- Windermere Economics with Jeff Tucker

Key Numbers at a Glance

$115/barrel Oil Price (Apr 7) Double the price at the start of 2026 — driven by the ongoing war in Iran, now in its second month.

178,000 Jobs Added (March) The strongest single month for job gains since late 2024 — but part of an 11-month streak of ups and downs.

~6.5% 30-Year Mortgage Rate Up nearly half a point from multi-year lows reached in late February, back to where rates stood last spring.

964,000 Active Listings (End of March) About 8% more than a year ago — buyers are gaining options heading into summer.

Why are mortgage rates going back up after they dropped earlier this year?

Rates briefly fell to multi-year lows in late February, but the combination of rising energy costs and the Federal Reserve holding off on rate cuts has pushed them back up. At roughly 6.5%, rates are now similar to where they were last spring and last summer. The ongoing conflict in Iran is a major driver — energy shocks tend to feed inflation, and that keeps rates elevated.

Is this a good time to buy, or should I wait for rates to drop?

That depends on your timeline and goals — but here's the honest picture: rates are unlikely to drop significantly in the near term. With a strong jobs report giving the Federal Reserve cover to hold rates steady, cuts aren't imminent. On the flip side, inventory is growing (up 8% year-over-year), which means

more options and less frantic competition than buyers faced in recent years. More supply can mean more negotiating room.

Are there more homes available than there used to be?

Yes. At the end of March there were 964,000 active listings nationwide — more than at this point in 2020 and about 8% above last year. Jeff Tucker notes this trend may actually be accelerating. If inventory keeps growing through summer, buyers could find themselves with a real range of options — which is a meaningful shift from the tight market of recent years

Does the energy crisis affect my home purchase in any way?

It does, indirectly. Higher oil prices raise the cost of building materials and transportation, which can influence new home construction costs. More immediately, energy price inflation influences the broader economic picture that drives mortgage rates. It's worth being aware of, but it shouldn't stop you from moving forward if you're financially ready and find the right home.

What does a strong jobs report mean for me as a buyer?

A healthy job market is generally good news — it signals economic stability, which can give you and your lender more confidence. The tradeoff is that strong jobs data reduces urgency for the Fed to cut rates, which keeps mortgage rates higher for longer. Think of it this way: a strong economy supports your ability to buy; it just doesn't lower your borrowing cost right now.

With inventory up 8%, is it harder to sell my home right now?

More competition does mean buyers have more to compare yours to — and that's worth taking seriously. Jeff Tucker's advice: this is still a busy spring selling season, but buyers are comparison-shopping. Pricing strategy, presentation, and working with an experienced agent all matter more when there are more listings to compete with. Putting your best foot forward is not optional right now — it's the strategy.

Should I be worried about the market shifting?

"More balanced" is the phrase Tucker uses — not a crash, not a buyer's market, but conditions that are evening out after years of strong seller advantage. Higher mortgage rates are dampening buyer urgency during what is usually the hot spring season. That's a meaningful shift. But homes that are priced well and presented well are still selling. The key is having a realistic read on where the market actually is.

How should the rising oil prices factor into my selling decision?

Oil prices affect the macro economy, not your home's value directly. However, if energy costs continue to climb, they add to inflationary pressure — which the Fed responds to by keeping rates elevated. That

keeps some buyers on the sidelines. The practical implication: don't expect a surge of rate-driven buyer urgency in the near term. Price and market your home as if buyers have choices, because they do.

Is the inventory growth a problem for sellers, or could it level off?

Tucker acknowledges it's too early to call a turning point, but the 8% year-over-year inventory gain now matches what he reported in February — ending a trend of slowing growth. That suggests inventory may be picking back up rather than tapering off. Sellers should plan for a market where buyers have options through the summer. That means strategic pricing, great listing photos, and an agent who knows how to position your home competitively.

With jobs looking strong, are buyers still out there?

Yes — and that's actually reassuring. A 178,000-job gain in March means the workforce is still growing and consumers still have income. Qualified buyers are in the market. The challenge is that higher rates have raised monthly payments enough to price some buyers out or slow their decision-making. But strong employment means motivated, capable buyers still exist. Your job — and your agent's job — is to make sure your listing earns their attention.

The Bottom Line

Global tensions are driving real estate conditions right now — not just local supply and demand. Oil prices, inflation, and the Federal Reserve's rate decisions are all interconnected. For buyers, more inventory and stabilizing conditions create opportunity. For sellers, the era of effortless multiple offers has shifted — strategy and presentation matter. Your Windermere agent is here to help you navigate all of it.

If you’ve been searching for a property with acreage, privacy, and views in the Lake Chelan area, homes like 95 Horizon Lane tend to stand out for a reason.

Located in Union Valley, this 20-acre property offers a unique combination of space, scenery, and proximity to town—something that can be difficult to find in today’s market.

Below are some of the most common questions buyers have when exploring properties like this.

Where is 95 Horizon Lane located?

95 Horizon Lane is located in Union Valley, just outside of downtown Chelan, Washington. The property sits approximately 15 minutes from town, offering a quieter, more rural setting while still being close to restaurants, wineries, shopping, and lake access.

What makes this property unique?

This home is positioned above Lake Chelan with sweeping panoramic views of the lake, surrounding mountains, valleys, and even the cities of Chelan and Manson.

In addition to the views, the property includes 20 private acres, which provides a level of privacy and flexibility that is becoming increasingly rare in the Chelan area.

Is the property suitable for horses or hobbies?

Yes, the property is well-suited for equestrian use and hobbies. It includes a three-stall horse barn with a tack room, a 60 x 100 outdoor riding arena, and partially fenced pasture areas.

There is also additional space for equipment, projects, or recreational use, making it a flexible property for a variety of lifestyles.

Is 95 Horizon Lane suitable for equestrian use?

Yes, the property is well-equipped for equestrian use. It includes a three-stall horse barn with a large tack room, a 60 x 100 outdoor riding arena, and partially fenced pasture areas.

With 20 private acres, there is ample space for riding, turnout, and expanding facilities if desired. The setting also allows for direct access to trails and open land, making it ideal for those seeking a property that supports both horses and a rural lifestyle.

Has the home been updated?

The home has been thoughtfully updated, including an updated kitchen with a large island and modern finishes, as well as renovated bathrooms with updated materials and fixtures.

Additionally, a new well was installed in April 2023 with strong output, supporting the long-term functionality of the property.

View the Video Tour

What are the key features of the home?

The home offers approximately 2,737 square feet of living space with 4 bedrooms and 1.75 bathrooms.

Interior features include vaulted ceilings, exposed log beams, custom wood finishes, hardwood and slate flooring, a gas fireplace, and an open-concept layout connecting the kitchen, dining, and living areas.

The primary suite includes a soaking tub and a private retreat feel, while the home overall balances comfort with character.

What is the outdoor living like?

Outdoor living is a major part of the experience at 95 Horizon Lane.

The property includes multiple decks and patio areas, offering space to relax, entertain, and take in the views. With 200-degree panoramic scenery, sunsets, and clear night skies, the setting naturally encourages time outside.

Trails begin directly from the property, making it easy to explore the land and surrounding environment.

How far is it from Chelan?

The property is located about 15 minutes from downtown Chelan.

This allows for easy access to lake activities, wineries, restaurants, and everyday amenities, while still enjoying the privacy and quiet of a more rural setting.

Is this a full-time home or a retreat property?

It can function as both.

The home is designed for comfortable year-round living, with updated systems and practical features, while also offering the feel of a private retreat—making it appealing for buyers looking for flexibility.

Final Thoughts

Properties like 95 Horizon Lane offer something that is becoming harder to find: meaningful acreage, privacy, and expansive views, all within close proximity to Chelan.

For buyers looking to balance lifestyle, space, and location, it represents a compelling opportunity in the Lake Chelan market.

Schedule a Private Showing

If you’re interested in learning more or scheduling a private showing, reach out anytime.

Arturo Zavala
Windermere Real Estate
📞 (509) 630-6365

As we move into spring, the Wenatchee real estate market is seeing a noticeable increase in activity, especially on the inventory side.

With more homes coming on the market and a wider range of options available, both buyers and sellers are asking thoughtful questions about what this means for their next move.

Here are some of the most common questions right now.

Is Wenatchee currently a buyer’s or seller’s market?

The market is becoming more balanced, with conditions leaning slightly in favor of buyers.

In March 2026, we saw:

234 total listings change status (active, pending, or sold)
Up from 90 listings in February
Compared to 77 listings in March 2025

This increase in inventory gives buyers more options and reduces some of the urgency we’ve seen in past years.

Why is inventory increasing right now?

This is typical for Wenatchee as we move into the spring market.

Many sellers choose to list during this time to prepare for:

increased buyer activity
better weather for showings
the traditional peak season

What stands out this year is the size of the increase, especially month-over-month.

Are homes still selling in Wenatchee?

Yes, homes are still selling, but not all at the same pace.

From the March data:

Sales are still occurring across a wide range
Most closed sales are concentrated in the mid-market range (approximately $350K–$700K)

This shows that demand is still strong — particularly for homes that are well-priced and well-prepared.

Are buyers gaining more leverage?

In some ways, yes.

With more homes available:

buyers have more options
there is less pressure to act immediately
negotiations are becoming more common

However, well-positioned homes can still attract strong interest.

Are home prices dropping in Wenatchee?

Not necessarily across the board.

While there is more competition among listings, pricing varies depending on:

location
condition
price point

The data shows that homes are still selling — especially in the more active price ranges.

Are homes taking longer to sell?

There is more variability in time on market.

Some homes are selling quickly, while others are taking longer — particularly if:

pricing is too aggressive
presentation is lacking
or the property is in a more competitive price range

This is a key sign of a more balanced market.

What price ranges are most active right now?

Based on current data:

Most buyer activity is in the $350K–$700K range
Inventory extends much higher, up to $4.9M+

This gap highlights where demand is strongest versus where competition is highest.

What should sellers focus on right now?

In this type of market, success comes down to:

pricing strategically
presenting the home well
understanding buyer expectations

With more competition, these factors have a bigger impact on how quickly a home sells and at what price.

Is now a good time to buy in Wenatchee?

For many buyers, this is a great time to explore the market.

With more inventory available:

there’s more flexibility
more time to evaluate options
and more potential to negotiate

What’s the outlook for the coming months?

As we move further into spring, it will be important to watch:

whether inventory continues to rise
how quickly homes begin to absorb
and whether buyer activity increases alongside new listings

Wenatchee tends to see stronger activity as the season progresses, so the current conditions may evolve.

Let’s Talk Strategy

Whether you’re buying or selling, having a clear, thoughtful approach can make all the difference — especially in a market with more moving parts.

Let’s talk strategy — and what makes sense for you.

Arturo Zavala

Broker, Luxury Advisor

509.630.6365

Click here to contact me!

The Lake Chelan real estate market is beginning to find its balance as we move through the late winter months.

While this time of year is typically quieter, the current data gives us a clear picture of how the market is shifting — and what that means for both buyers and sellers heading into spring.

A Look at the Numbers

Here’s where the market stands right now:

54 homes currently for sale
4 homes sold in March
9 homes pending
13.5 months of inventory

These numbers reflect a slower pace of sales combined with an increase in available inventory — a combination that creates a different dynamic than what we’ve seen in recent years.

A Buyer’s Market — and What That Means

With over 13 months of inventory, Lake Chelan is currently in buyer’s market conditions.

In simple terms, this means:

Buyers have more options to choose from
There is less urgency to make immediate decisions
Negotiation opportunities are more common

For buyers, this can be a great time to explore the market with more flexibility and less pressure.

If you're considering purchasing in the area, this can be a great time to explore available opportunities through our Lake Chelan home search.

A Seasonal Market Still Showing Activity

It’s also important to view these numbers in context.

Lake Chelan is a seasonal market, and late winter is traditionally one of the quieter times of year. Even so, we’re still seeing activity across a wide range of price points.

Recent sales this month ranged from approximately:

$500,000 to over $2.9 million

That range is a strong indicator that demand still exists — particularly for well-positioned properties.

What This Means for Sellers

For sellers, the shift doesn’t mean the market has stopped — it means strategy matters more than ever.

Homes that are:

well-prepared
thoughtfully priced
and clearly positioned

are still standing out and attracting attention.

If you're preparing to sell, you can learn more about pre-listing strategy and options through our Windermere Ready program.

Looking Ahead

As we move into spring — typically one of the most active times of year in Lake Chelan — it will be important to watch how inventory and buyer activity evolve.

Seasonal markets can shift quickly, and preparation ahead of that shift can make a meaningful difference.

Let’s Talk Strategy

Whether you’re buying or selling, having a clear, thoughtful approach can make all the difference in today’s market.

If you’d like to talk through your situation or next steps, you can click here to connect with Arturo!

A Clearer Way to Approach Your Move to Central Washington

Relocating to a new area comes with a lot of unknowns — especially when you’re trying to understand what day-to-day life will actually look like.

As a partner with Windermere Relocation Services, I regularly help clients navigate moves to and from Central Washington, and these are some of the most common (and important) questions that come up along the way.

If you’re considering a move to Chelan, Wenatchee, or anywhere in the region, this guide will help you get a clearer picture of what to expect.

❓ What is it actually like living in Central Washington?

Central Washington offers a lifestyle that’s hard to fully understand until you experience it.

It’s a mix of:

wide open space
natural beauty
slower pace
Four seasons
Sunshine
Relaxed, low-key lifestyle

At the same time, areas like Wenatchee still provide the essentials for everyday living — so you’re not sacrificing convenience entirely.

For many people, it feels like a reset from busier, more crowded areas.

❓ How do I choose between Chelan and Wenatchee?

This is one of the biggest decisions people face when relocating here.

🌊 Chelan & Manson

Chelan is more lifestyle-driven. Life often revolves around the lake, with a slower pace and more seasonal energy.

👉 Best for:

lake living
second homes
a relaxed, scenic environment

🌄 Wenatchee & East Wenatchee

Wenatchee is more practical for day-to-day living, with more access to:

healthcare
shopping
schools
year-round activity

👉 Best for:

full-time living
convenience
more housing variety
more job opportunities

The right choice usually comes down to practicality and how you want your daily life to feel.

❓ Is Central Washington a good place to live year-round?

Yes, and many people relocate here specifically for that reason.

Wenatchee tends to be the most popular for full-time residents because of its infrastructure, job opportunities and accessibility, while Chelan can feel more like a vacation depending on the time of year.

That said, both can work well depending on your lifestyle and preferences.

❓ Do I need to visit before buying?

If you can, it’s highly recommended! Being in the actual locations and experiencing day to day life gives you a much more accurate view than what you see online.

I usually recommend:

exploring more than one area
noticing how each place feels
paying attention to lifestyle, not just homes
if possible, visit in different seasons, winter is a whole different ball game from summer in this region

If visiting isn’t possible, I regularly help clients remotely through:

video tours
detailed breakdowns of areas
honest conversations about trade-offs

❓ What are the biggest mistakes people make when relocating here?

A few patterns come up often:

Choosing a location based only on appearance, not lifestyle
Underestimating how different each area feels
Not thinking through timing and logistics ahead of time

The biggest one is not taking the time to match how you want to live with where you’re moving.

❓ What areas do you serve in Central Washington?

I work with clients throughout Central Washington, including:

Chelan, Manson, Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Cashmere, Orondo, Pateros, Brewster, Bridgeport, Rock Island, Malaga, and Peshastin.

Each area offers something different, and I help clients narrow down what fits best.

❓ Can you help if I’m moving from out of state?

Yes, I can work with clients relocating from out of state.

I help guide:

area selection
timing
next steps
what to expect

Through my partnership with Windermere Relocation Services, I can also connect you with trusted agents in your current location if needed.

❓ Can you help if I’m moving out of Central Washington?

Absolutely!

If your move involves another city or state, I can help connect you with a trusted agent through the Windermere network and help coordinate the process so it feels seamless.

❓ When should I start planning my move?

Earlier than most people think. Allowing ample time will reduce stress, prevent rushed decisions and make the process more seamless.

Even if your move is a few months out, starting early allows you to:

understand the market
explore areas thoughtfully
avoid rushed decisions

A simple conversation early on can make everything feel much more manageable.

❓ What’s the first step?

The first step is just reaching out.

We’ll talk through your situation, your timeline, and what you’re looking for — and from there, I can help you build a clear plan so the process feels structured instead of overwhelming.

🌄 Thinking about relocating?

Relocating is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to feel complicated. With the right guidance, it can actually be an exciting and smooth transition.

If you’re considering a move to Central Washington, I’m here to help you navigate the process and find the right fit for your lifestyle.

👉 Start your relocation plan

Once again, tax season is here—and with it, Windermere’s annual shredding event, a tradition we look forward to every year.

Many people in our community count on this event as a safe, simple way to dispose of sensitive documents. We also get a lot of great questions each year, so we wanted to put together a quick guide with everything you need to know.

What is the Windermere shredding event?

This is a free community event where you can bring personal documents to be securely shredded onsite.

It’s a quick and easy way to protect your personal information while clearing out paperwork you no longer need.

When and where is the event?

📍 Chelan Fire & Rescue
232 E Wapato Ave, Chelan, WA

🗓 Saturday, May 16th, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM (or until the truck is full)

Why do we host this event each year?

This has become a favorite tradition at Windermere Lake Chelan.

It’s a simple way for us to give back while helping our community stay safe and organized. Events like this are also a great reminder that small things—like properly disposing of documents—can make a big difference when it comes to protecting your identity.

Why is the event held after tax season?

We plan this event intentionally after tax season because it’s when most people are sorting through:

Old tax returns
Financial records
Receipts and paperwork

Instead of letting those documents pile up—or throwing them away unsecured—this gives you a safe and responsible option.

What can I bring to shred?

You can bring most personal and sensitive documents, including:

Tax documents
Bank statements
Medical records
Bills and receipts
Any paperwork with personal or financial information

If it contains information you wouldn’t want in the wrong hands, it’s a good candidate for shredding.

Is the event really free?

Yes—this is a free event for the community.

We do accept optional donations, and all proceeds will benefit Chelan Volunteer Fire ❤️

Should I arrive early?

We definitely recommend it.

The shredding truck has a limited capacity and may fill up before the event ends. Arriving earlier helps ensure your documents can be accepted.

Who is this event for?

Everyone is welcome.

You don’t need to be a client or homeowner—this event is open to the entire Chelan community and surrounding areas.

Final Thoughts

This event has become a meaningful tradition for us, and we’re always grateful to see so many familiar and new faces each year.

If you’ve been meaning to clean out old paperwork, this is a great opportunity to do it safely, responsibly, and for a good cause.

We hope to see you there.

Arturo Zavala
Broker, Luxury Advisor
Windermere Real Estate / Lake Chelan
📞 509-630-6365
📧 arturozavala@windermere.com

Q: Is land actually selling quickly in Wenatchee right now?

Yes, and we’re seeing it in real time.

Two homesites on Methow St, just off Squilchuck Road, both went pending in 4 and 5 days. That’s a clear signal of demand, especially for usable land with privacy and proximity to town.

Q: Why is the Squilchuck area getting so much attention?

Squilchuck offers something that’s getting harder to find:

Space and privacy
Usable acreage
No HOA restrictions (in many cases)
Close proximity to Wenatchee amenities
Easy access to outdoor recreation like Mission Ridge

It strikes a balance between lifestyle and convenience, which is exactly what many buyers are looking for right now.

Q: What made these particular lots move so quickly?

A few key factors:

Over 2 acres of usable land
Utilities available at the street
Flexible building potential (RR2.5 zoning)
Opportunity to purchase adjacent lots
Competitive pricing for the area

When those elements come together, buyers tend to act quickly.

Q: What does this mean for nearby property owners?

Activity like this can be a strong indicator of:

Continued buyer demand
Interest in larger parcels
Potential upward pressure on property values

Even if you’re not thinking about selling right now, it’s helpful to understand how quickly things are moving in your immediate area.

Q: Is now a good time to sell land in Wenatchee?

In many cases, yes — especially if your property offers:

Usable space
Privacy
Build potential

We’re seeing buyers actively looking for opportunities like this, and well-positioned properties are standing out.

Q: How can I find out what my land is worth?

I’m happy to take a look and give you a clear picture of what your property could be worth in today’s market.

No pressure, just helpful information so you can make the best decision for your situation.

📲 Contact me
📩 Or request a home valuation online

Explore Property in Wenatchee

Thinking about buying a home with acreage, privacy, and views in Lake Chelan?

Here are some of the most common questions about 1114 Blazing Star Lane, Chelan WA—and what makes this property stand out.

How much land does the property have?

The property sits on 20 acres, providing space, privacy, and flexibility.

Acreage properties with views like this are becoming increasingly hard to find in the Lake Chelan area.

What kind of views does the home have?

The home is positioned for southwest-facing views over Lake Chelan and the surrounding mountains.

Sunsets are a standout feature here—especially from the covered decks.

How big is the home and what’s the layout?

This Lake Chelan home offers:

4 bedrooms
3 bathrooms
2,992 square feet

The main level includes the primary suite and main living areas. The fully finished daylight lower level provides additional bedrooms, a bunk room, and a second living space—ideal for guests.

What makes this home different from others in Lake Chelan?

A few key features set this property apart:

Built in 2021 (newer construction)
High-quality materials and thoughtful design
Strong infrastructure (water, electrical, septic)
20 acres with privacy and usable space
Lake and mountain views

It’s rare to find all of these features combined in one property.

How is the water system?

This is one of the most important features of the home.

The property includes an approximate 9 GPM well, which is considered strong for the area, along with:

1,700-gallon storage tank
Constant-pressure system
Dual 80-gallon water heaters

This setup provides reliable, consistent water pressure throughout the home.

Is the home built for year-round living?

Yes. The home was designed for comfort and efficiency in all seasons.

Features include:

Above-code insulation
Tight building envelope
Energy-efficient systems

The result is a stable and comfortable indoor environment year-round.

What kind of construction and materials were used?

The home was built with durability and longevity in mind:

Standing seam metal roof
Cement board siding
PEX plumbing system
400-amp electrical service
Dual 1,500-gallon septic tanks

These are the types of features that contribute to long-term value and lower maintenance.

Is the home being sold furnished?

Yes. The home is offered fully furnished, making it a turnkey opportunity for buyers.

What is the lifestyle like in Chelan Vista Heights?

This area offers a quiet, private setting with access to outdoor space and scenic surroundings.

Expansive acreage properties
Peaceful, low-density environment
Access to nearby trails and nature
Close proximity to Lake Chelan

It’s ideal for both full-time living and second-home use.

Who is this home a good fit for?

This property is well suited for:

Buyers looking for acreage and privacy
Second-home or vacation property buyers
Buyers relocating to Lake Chelan
Anyone seeking a balance of views, space, and quality construction

How can I schedule a showing?

To learn more or schedule a private showing:

Call or text: 509-630-6365
Email: ArturoZavala@windermere.com

Where can I view more details about this property?

View the full property page here:
👉Click Here

Explore more Lake Chelan real estate

Looking beyond this property?

Explore neighborhoods:
👉 Click Here

Search homes for sale:
👉Click Here

Learn about the area:
👉 Click Here

(What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know Right Now)

If you’ve been watching the market, you’ve probably noticed things feel… different.

To help make sense of it, Windermere’s Principal Economist, Jeff Tucker, recently shared insights on where the housing market is heading in 2026—covering everything from mortgage rates to inventory and home prices.

Here’s a simple breakdown in FAQ format 👇

❓ Is the housing market improving in 2026?

Yes—but slowly.

After several years of very low home sales, activity is expected to pick up slightly in 2026. However, this isn’t a dramatic rebound—it’s more of a gradual shift toward a more balanced market.

❓ Are home prices going up or down?

Prices are expected to stay relatively flat.

Higher inventory is putting some downward pressure on prices, but many sellers are choosing to wait rather than accept lower offers. That’s helping prevent major price drops.

👉 What this means:

Buyers aren’t seeing huge discounts
Sellers aren’t seeing big appreciation
The market is leveling out

❓ Will there be more homes for sale?

Yes—and this is a big shift.

Inventory is expected to return to pre-pandemic levels, giving buyers more options than they’ve had in years.

There’s also what economists call “shadow inventory”—homeowners who are waiting for the right moment to list.

👉 Translation:
More listings + longer time on market = more negotiating power for buyers

❓ What’s happening with mortgage rates?

Rates are expected to decline slightly—but not dramatically.

Mortgage rates are projected to stay around the high 5% to low 6% range, with possible dips below 6% at times.

👉 Key takeaway:

We’re not going back to 3% rates
But conditions are improving compared to recent years

❓ Is inflation still affecting the housing market?

Yes—but it’s easing.

Inflation has cooled compared to previous years, which is helping stabilize mortgage rates and improve buyer confidence. However, the Federal Reserve is still being cautious, so changes are happening gradually.

❓ Are we heading into a recession?

Current outlook: No.

Despite economic challenges in recent years, the expectation is that the U.S. will avoid a recession in 2026, which supports overall housing stability.

❓ Is it a buyer’s or seller’s market right now?

It’s becoming more balanced.

Buyers: gaining more options and negotiating power
Sellers: still holding value, but needing stronger pricing strategy

👉 This is what we call a transition market

❓ What does this mean for buyers?

More homes to choose from
Less competition than peak years
Slightly better financing conditions

👉 Opportunity is improving—but strategy still matters

❓ What does this mean for sellers?

Pricing correctly is more important than ever
Homes may take longer to sell
Presentation and marketing make a bigger difference

👉 The homes that stand out are still winning

💡 Final Thoughts

According to Jeff Tucker, 2026 isn’t about big swings—it’s about stability returning to the market.

And honestly… that’s a good thing.

A more balanced market creates:

Better opportunities for buyers
More realistic expectations for sellers
Healthier long-term growth

In a market where some homes are taking longer to find the right buyer, this one went pending in just 16 days.

That kind of outcome isn’t always typical right now, so I thought it would be helpful to share a bit more about what may have contributed, and behind the scenes look into preparing the home.

What Happened Here?

This home went pending in just over two weeks. In today’s market, that’s a unique outcome, especially as buyers are taking more time and being more selective in their decisions.

Is That Typical Right Now?

Not always.

We’re seeing a mix, some homes are moving, while others are sitting longer or going through price adjustments. That’s part of what makes this result stand out a bit.

What Made the Difference?

It’s rarely just one thing, more often it’s a combination of thoughtful decisions made from the start.

In this case, that likely included:

• Strategic pricing from day one
• The level of care and improvement put into the home
• Clear and thorough disclosures
• Strong, consistent marketing

The Seller’s Role in This

A big part of this story is the seller.

They put meaningful work into improving the home, and it shows in both how the property presents and how it lives day to day.

Some of those updates included:

• Brand new A/C
• All new kitchen cabinetry with updated KitchenAid appliances
• Fully updated downstairs bathroom
• New LVP flooring throughout the basement
• New interior and exterior doors
• Newly poured back patio and concrete driveway
• Irrigation added to the front, back, and side yards
• Raised garden beds and a custom craftsman-style shed
• Garage subpanel installed for EV charging

There’s a difference you can feel when a home has been thoughtfully cared for — and buyers tend to notice that.

What Buyers Responded To

Beyond the updates, it’s also about how the home lives.

This home offered:

• A spacious backyard with room to relax, garden, or gather
• Mature landscaping that adds privacy and character
• An open floor plan that feels connected and easy
• A quiet street with a peaceful setting
• Walkability to downtown Chelan

How the Home Was Presented

The goal was simply to make it easy for buyers to connect with the home.

That included:

• Placement across major real estate platforms
• Zillow Showcase exposure
• Targeted online advertising
• A direct mail postcard campaign to the surrounding area
• A dedicated property website
• Google visibility
• Photo and video content
• Two open houses
• On-site materials, including a property kiosk

What Does This Tell us About the Market?

Buyers are still active, just more intentional.

When a home is well-prepared and thoughtfully positioned, it can still move in a reasonable timeframe. When those pieces aren’t aligned, homes are more likely to sit.

The Takeaway for Homeowners

The details matter.

Preparation, pricing, and presentation all play a role, and taking the time to get those right upfront can make a meaningful difference in how a home performs.

A Note of Gratitude

More than anything, I’m really happy for my clients.

They put a lot of care into this home not just in the updates, but in how it was maintained and lived in, and it’s always rewarding to see that effort recognized when the right buyer comes along.

Thinking About Selling?

If you’ve been considering selling and want a realistic look at what that could look like in today’s market, I’m always happy to talk it through.

No pressure, just a conversation.

Contact Arturo