For this February market update, we take a different approach - looking back at 10 years of February data for Snohomish County and ZIP 98296. The result? Prices remain historically high, but the market feels far more balanced than during the frenzy years. With inventory improving, days on market longer, and negotiation returning, buyers and sellers now have more time and more choices. Here’s what the data really says—and what it means if you’re thinking about making a move.

When buying a home, it’s easy to focus on the obvious—price, layout, and finishes. But the details that matter most often go unnoticed until after move-in. From sunlight, wind, and drainage to trees, traffic, buried infrastructure, and flood risk, these overlooked factors can quietly shape daily life and long-term costs. With inventory improving, buyers now have time to slow down, look deeper, and make more confident, informed decisions.

Shopping for a mortgage rate can save you tens of thousands of dollars — yet many buyers accept the first offer they receive. The good news? You can safely compare lenders without hurting your credit score when done within the credit “shopping window.” In this guide, we break down how to shop rates the smart way, explain hard vs. soft credit pulls in simple terms, compare banks, brokers, and online lenders, and share practical tips to help you secure the best loan for your ne