Inventory Grows, Prices Ease as the Market Balances
The Whatcom County real estate market continued its transition toward balance in September 2025, with more homes hitting the market and prices showing signs of moderation. According to the latest data from the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS), buyers are gaining more options while sellers adjust to increased competition and softer pricing trends.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening across Whatcom County — and how it compares to last year.
📊 Countywide Overview (All Residential + Condos)
- Active Listings: 1,011 (up 37.36% from 736 in 2024)
- Pending Sales: 271 (flat, up just 0.37%)
- Closed Sales: 282 (no change from 2024)
- Median Sales Price: $595,000 (down 2.61% from $610,950)
- Months of Inventory: 3.59
📌 What It Means:
More homes are available than a year ago, giving buyers greater choice and negotiation power. Prices have eased slightly, a sign that the market is rebalancing after years of rapid appreciation.
🏠 Residential Homes
- Active Listings: 852 (+39.9%)
- Pending Sales: 244 (+7.02%)
- Closed Sales: 245 (+5.15%)
- Median Price: $604,000 (-4.43%)
- Months of Inventory: 3.48
📈 Insight:
Single-family homes are seeing healthy inventory growth and modest increases in buyer activity. With more listings on the market, pricing your home strategically is key to attracting motivated buyers.
🏢 Condominiums
- Active Listings: 159 (+25.2%)
- Pending Sales: 27 (-35.7%)
- Closed Sales: 37 (-24.5%)
- Median Price: $365,000 (-14.1%)
- Months of Inventory: 4.3
📉 Insight:
The condo market is experiencing slower demand, with prices softening significantly compared to last year. Buyers looking for value will find more opportunities in this segment.
📍 Local Area Highlights
| Area | Active Listings | YoY Change | Closed Sales YoY | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bellingham (860) | 282 (+53%) | +20% | $670,000 (+2.1%) | |
| Ferndale / Custer (870) | 132 (+39%) | -21% | $592,495 (-7.2%) | |
| Lynden (880) | 175 (+35%) | +2% | $591,591 (-9.1%) | |
| Blaine / Birch Bay (890) | 35 (-30%) | +62% | $499,000 (-8.4%) | |
| Sudden Valley (895) | 169 (+59%) | -28% | $385,000 (-3.5%) |
🧭 Observations:
- Bellingham continues to lead the market with strong activity and steady pricing.
- Ferndale and Lynden are seeing substantial inventory growth and more moderate pricing.
- Blaine/Birch Bay stands out with fewer listings but a notable increase in sales.
- Sudden Valley offers abundant supply and softening prices — potential opportunity for buyers.
🧾 Year-Over-Year Summary
| Metric | Sept 2024 | Sept 2025 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Listings | 736 | 1,011 | +37.36% |
| Pending Sales | 270 | 271 | +0.37% |
| Closed Sales | 282 | 282 | 0% |
| Median Price | $610,950 | $595,000 | -2.61% |
✅ Takeaway:
Inventory growth is reshaping the market, giving buyers breathing room and encouraging sellers to price with precision. Overall sales activity remains steady, signaling continued demand — but today’s market requires strategy, patience, and expertise.
💡 What This Means for You
If you’re thinking of buying, now is the time to explore — more listings mean more choice, less competition, and room to negotiate.
If you’re thinking of selling, preparation and pricing are more important than ever to stand out and secure strong offers.
Whether you’re ready to make a move or just curious about your neighborhood, our team is here to help you navigate the shifting market with confidence.
📞 Let’s Talk About Your Goals
Call The Johnson Team Real Estate today at 360-303-2734
or email info@johnsonteamrealestate.com