Why Late Fall Is Still a Smart Time to Buy a Home in Kirkland (98033 & 98034)
- leahbobson
- 12 minutes ago
- 2 min read
As the days get shorter and the holidays approach, most people assume the real estate market slows to a halt — but in Kirkland, the opposite is often true. Late fall, especially November through early December, can offer some of the best buying opportunities of the year for serious home shoppers.
Here’s why the season known for rain, cozy nights, and holiday prep can actually set you up for success in one of the Eastside’s most competitive markets.
1. Less Competition, More Opportunity
Spring brings floods of buyers. Late fall? Only the serious ones remain. With fewer people actively touring homes, buyers often enjoy:
More showing availability
Less competition on desirable properties
The ability to negotiate terms
Sellers who are motivated before year-end
In top Kirkland neighborhoods like Norkirk, Juanita, Finn Hill, and Houghton, reduced competition can make a meaningful difference.
2. Motivated Sellers Before Year-End
Some sellers list in the fall because they want to:
Close before the new year
Time a job relocation
Prepare to buy in spring
Avoid carrying costs into January
Motivated sellers can mean more flexible timelines, repairs, credits, or price adjustments — a win for buyers.
3. A Clear Picture of Home Condition
Kirkland’s late-fall weather reveals what sunny spring showings often hide. You’ll immediately see:
How well a home handles rain
Drainage issues
Window efficiency
Drafts or heating concerns
Roof performance
If a home looks and feels solid during November weather, that’s a great sign.
4. Historically Strong Pricing Stability
While spring sees price surges driven by demand, late fall often brings:
Slightly softer price competition
More realistic pricing strategies
Sellers who are open to discussions
In high-demand ZIP codes like 98033 and 98034, this can create rare windows of opportunity.
5. Faster Timelines & Smoother Transactions
Because real estate professionals — lenders, inspectors, appraisers — often have lighter workloads this time of year, buyers benefit from:
Faster pre-approvals
Quicker inspections
Streamlined underwriting
More attention from all parties
Efficiency means less stress during a typically hectic season.
6. You Get a Head Start on 2025 Market Trends
Buying in late fall positions you perfectly for:
Spring appreciation
Stabilizing interest rate changes
Growing Eastside demand
The 2025 peak buying season
You’re essentially one step ahead of the crowds.
If You’re Considering a Move, The Bobson Team Is Here to Help
We specialize in guiding buyers and sellers throughout Kirkland, King County, and Snohomish County — offering:
Local market expertise
In-house design consultations
Concierge funds for home updates before listing
Trusted contractor + lender referrals
Support before, during, and after closing
Clear, honest communication every step of the way
When you work with our team, you always come first.
Justin Bobson
Managing Broker
425-647-4165
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