3 Reasons To Buy a Home This Summer on Whidbey Island


Are you dreaming of finding your perfect spot among the natural beauty and vibrant communities of Whidbey Island, but wondering if now’s the right time to buy? Many are observing the market, trying to predict its next move. But here’s a tip from your local Whidbey Island real estate expert: this summer just might be the opportune moment to buy a home on Whidbey Island. Let's dive into three compelling reasons why.
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1. You Have More Negotiating Power


After several years where sellers held the upper hand, the scales are starting to balance. The market has shifted, and buyers are regaining their negotiating power as a result. In the period from 2021 through roughly 2023, there were significantly more buyers (blue line) looking to buy than homes for sale (green line), which fueled intense competition, bidding wars, and rapid price growth. Now, with more sellers active in the market than buyers, the dynamic has changed.
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This shift means sellers may be more open to discussions about repairs, covering some closing costs, or even adjusting their asking price. This return to a more balanced market is a sign of a healthier, more sustainable environment for everyone. As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), wisely points out: "... with housing inventory levels reaching five-year highs, homebuyers in nearly every region of the country are in a better position to negotiate more favorable terms". And for those wondering if there are too many homes on the market, rest assured. While overall inventory is still lower than normal, so you don't have to worry about a nationwide oversupply or a crash.

2. You Have More Choices for Whidbey Island Homes


Good news for Whidbey Island homebuyers: the number of homes for sale has notably improved. Based on the latest data from Realtor.com, more homes were listed this May than in May 2024 or May 2023.
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More homes for sale means more choices for you. Your ideal Whidbey Island home could have just hit the market, or it might be coming soon! This is an excellent time to explore the diverse properties available across the island, from the serene shores of Clinton, Langley , and Freeland to the bustling communities of Greenbank , Coupeville , and Oak Harbor. This sentiment is echoed by Jake Krimmel, Economist at Realtor.com, who notes, "With more fresh inventory hitting the market, buyers have better opportunities to find a home that fits their needs". Locally on Whidbey Island, as of June 16, 2025, we have 126 single-family homes and condos for sale in South and Central Whidbey (Clinton, Langley, Freeland, Greenbank) and 148 in Coupeville & Oak Harbor. This gives buyers a solid selection to explore.

3. You May See More Flexibility on Price


With an increased number of homes for sale, they're not selling at the same frenzied pace they were just a few years ago. Since homes are taking more time to sell, some sellers are choosing to lower their asking prices to draw buyers back in or speed up the process. And that's to be expected. According to Realtor.com, 19.1% of listings had a price cut this May.
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This marks the fifth consecutive month of increased price reductions , bringing the volume of price cuts back to more typical levels as of May. This is another clear indicator of the market returning to a more balanced market. While dramatic discounts aren't the norm, you might find sellers are a bit more flexible right now. As a recent article from The Street says, "homebuyers" are finding opportunities. It's important to remember that most sellers still aren't adjusting their prices - just the ones who overpriced to start with. So, this isn't a sign of a crash, it's a sign of some sellers having outdated expectations in a shifting market. On Whidbey Island, in the last 30 days, homes in South and Central Whidbey have been selling for an average of 97% of list price , while those in Coupeville and Oak Harbor have been achieving an average of 99% of list price. The median sales price in the last 30 days for South and Central Whidbey is $728,000 , and for Coupeville & Oak Harbor, it's $527,500. The average days to sell on Whidbey Island are around 50 days in the south and central areas and 34 days in Coupeville & Oak Harbor. These local statistics further emphasize the return to a more manageable and predictable market, offering buyers a chance to make well-considered decisions.

Bottom Line


This summer presents a powerful combination for buyers: more homes to choose from, less intense competition, and sellers showing greater flexibility on pricing. If you're ready to make a move and embrace the Whidbey Island lifestyle, connect with a local Whidbey Island real estate agent. We'd love to help you navigate this unique market and take the next step toward finding your dream home. What would finding the right home this summer mean for your next chapter on Whidbey Island?

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