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Pandemic-Era Home Sales Higher than Same Period Last Year

Oct 20, 2020

Demand for homes is outstripping supply in Skagit County and surrounding areas. Sales closing values exceeded last year’s, although fewer total homes changed hands. For most homes, the selling price remained very close to the initial asking price.

Even with added COVID-19 precautions, homebuyers are taking advantage of historically affordable interest rates. Lower density areas like Anacortes and Skagit County continue to see an influx from the Seattle and Portland metropolitan areas.

Buyers appreciate the larger lots and higher quality of life available in Skagit County. Beyond the ocean, forests, and parks, people are attracted to the sense of community.



Low Supply and High Demand in Housing Sales

Competition among buyers for homes is robust. Realtor.com reports the median sales price for homes in Skagit County for July 2020 was $390,000. That is almost 14 percent higher than in July of 2019.


To apply that number to your Skagit County home, the median listing price per square foot was $245. Most properties sell in less than two months.


Skagit County's median sales price is higher than the United States average, which is about $324,000, with the number of homes sold up over seven percent.


Almost thirty percent of listed homes attract multiple offers and sell for more than the listing price. Only 13 percent of homes drop their price before selling, which is down from last year.


The Skagit County Rental Market

With vacancy rates around one percent, rentals are in demand. Some renters find themselves paying more than they had intended, or rooming with friends or family for a short period while they find the right place to rent. COVID-19 and related precautions can make these arrangements more difficult.


The discussion of how to best increase affordable housing options in a way that maintains the character of Skagit County continues. In the meantime, prospective renters are encouraged to be consistent and proactive in their approach. Excellent new rental options become available every month.

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Pandemic-Era Home Sales Higher than Same Period Last Year

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Demand for homes is outstripping supply in Skagit County and surrounding areas. Sales closing values exceeded last year’s, although fewer total homes changed hands. For most homes, the selling price remained very close to the initial asking price.

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