King & Snohomish County active listings experienced major growth at the end of October 2026, offering local buyers the widest selection of properties seen in years. According to the Northwest Multiple Listing Service October 2026 report, total properties listed for sale across the region climbed 25.2% year over year. As a real estate broker serving Bellevue with 14 years of experience, I track these numbers closely to provide clear guidance to clients navigating shifting conditions.
Key takeaways
- Total active inventory across the NWMLS system reached 23,519 properties at the end of October 2026, up 25.2% from 18,791 in October 2025.
- King County saw a 32.8% year-over-year jump in active inventory, expanding options across the regional market.
- Snohomish County active listings increased by 41.7% compared to October 2025.
- Inventory expanded across 26 of 27 NWMLS counties, pushing overall buyer choices near a 12-year high.
How much did King & Snohomish County active listings grow in October 2026?
Active inventory across King and Snohomish counties saw significant double-digit percentage increases at the end of October 2026 compared to October 2025. NWMLS reported on November 5, 2026, that King County active listings grew by 32.8% year over year, while Snohomish County experienced a 41.7% rise in inventory during the same timeframe.
Across the entire NWMLS service area, 26 of 27 counties recorded year-over-year inventory increases. Total active listings reached 23,519 at the end of October 2026, compared to 18,791 in October 2025. This added more than 4,700 homes to the market. Below is a comparison of inventory growth across selected counties reported on November 5, 2026:
| County | Year-over-Year Inventory Growth | October 2026 Context |
|---|---|---|
| Snohomish County | 41.7% | Significant inventory expansion |
| King County | 32.8% | Expanded choices across urban and suburban markets |
| Pierce County | 19.7% | Moderate year-over-year listing increase |
| Walla Walla County | 52.3% | Highest percentage increase across NWMLS |
| Douglas County | 42.3% | Second-highest percentage growth |
What do these wa housing market trends mean for home buyers?
For buyers looking at snohomish county real estate or bellevue housing inventory, expanding active listings mean significantly less competition and more properties to view. NWMLS noted on November 5, 2026, that overall home choices are holding near a 12-year high, while condo buyers paid the lowest median prices since early 2023.
More inventory gives buyers time to evaluate homes thoroughly and review documents with care. Instead of rushing to write unconditional offers on listing day, buyers can compare neighborhood values and assess property conditions across the market.
How should home sellers respond to the snohomish county real estate market inventory surge?
Sellers facing an inventory increase in the snohomish county real estate market must focus on pricing accuracy and property presentation to attract serious buyers. According to NWMLS data released on November 5, 2026, King County inventory climbed 32.8% and Snohomish County inventory rose 41.7% year over year, meaning buyers have more options and will pass over homes that seem overpriced.
Active listings represent the total supply of homes listed for sale that have not yet gone under contract. When active listings grow by over 4,700 homes across the region according to the NWMLS October 2026 report, properties need proper preparation and strategic presentation. Reviewing comparable sales and understanding current inventory numbers helps sellers position their homes effectively against competing properties in the neighborhood.
Frequently asked questions
How many total active listings were on the NWMLS market at the end of October 2026?
There were 23,519 active listings on the market at the end of October 2026, compared to 18,791 at the end of October 2025, according to NWMLS.
How many counties in Washington experienced inventory growth?
According to the November 5, 2026 NWMLS report, 26 of 27 counties experienced year-over-year inventory growth.
Which county experienced the highest percentage growth in active listings?
Walla Walla County had the highest inventory growth across NWMLS, increasing 52.3% year over year as of October 2026.
What trend did NWMLS report for condo pricing in October 2026?
NWMLS reported that condo buyers paid the lowest median prices since early 2023 as choices expanded near a 12-year high.
Did Pierce County see an inventory increase in October 2026?
Yes, Pierce County inventory rose 19.7% year over year at the end of October 2026, based on NWMLS data.
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