Is it a good time to buy a home after an election in Kirkland?

With the political headlines behind us and election season in the rearview mirror, many prospective buyers in Kirkland find themselves asking: Is now a smart time to invest in a home? Historically, the real estate market tends to stay steady through election cycles and often gains momentum afterward. Let’s unpack why post-election timing could be to your advantage—especially here in Kirkland.

Trends & Expert Insights

According to data from the National Association of Realtors and HUD, home sales have increased the year following nine of the last eleven U.S. presidential elections, dating back to 1978 National Association of REALTORS®+2Keeping Current Matters+2. Home prices have also risen year-over-year in nearly every post-election cycle, with the exceptions typically tied to major economic downturns—not the political cycle itself National Association of REALTORS®Keeping Current Matters.

Economists note that while November during an election year may see a temporary slowdown in buyer activity, this hesitancy usually reverses by December—followed by renewed interest in the market in the months that followInvestopedia+4Keeping Current Matters+4Michael Edlen & The Edlen Team+4. So if you felt like the market was quieter leading up to the election, know that’s normal—and the next phase is often more active.

Mortgage Rates & Buyer Sentiment

Freddie Mac data shows that mortgage rates often trend downward between July and November during election yearsKeeping Current Matters+2MDRE Group+2. Lower or stabilizing rates can make monthly payment estimates more appealing to buyers—even in a high-rate environment.

Beyond the numbers, there's often a psychological shift post-election. House Beautiful quotes agents who say that buyers often begin submitting offers more confidently once the political uncertainty eases kiplinger.com+15Intercap Lending+15wafirstmortgage.com+15housebeautiful.com+1.

What’s the Impact Here in Kirkland?

Kirkland’s housing market is shaped by factors like Eastside job growth, limited land availability, and strong demand for quality schools and lifestyle amenities. None of these fundamentals are tied to election cycles; if anything, they reinforce the city's long-term value.

In the immediate post-election period, you may see:

• Slightly less competition—as fence-sitting buyers get off the sidelines.

• More negotiation leverage, especially if some inventory didn’t move while the election drew attention.

• Renewed buyer interest entering December and early next year, aligning with broader national patterns.

Bottom Line for Kirkland Buyers

While the election may influence buying timelines and sentiment, it doesn’t fundamentally derail the housing market. Historical trends suggest:

• Home prices typically remain stable or rise post-election.

• Sales activity often rebounds quickly after an election.

• Mortgage rates may edge lower during the latter half of the election year.

If your finances are solid and you’re ready to make a move, this could be a smart moment to act—taking advantage of any temporary slowdown and entering a market poised for renewed activity.