Kirkland Real Estate & the Mariners: Smart Plays in a Buyer’s Market

by Jason Mesnick

There’s something electric in the air: the Mariners are hitting their stride, fans are packing the stands, and every hit feels like a possibility. But while the Mariners are riding a high note, Kirkland’s real estate market is telling a more sober story—one where buyers have a bit more leverage than we’ve seen in recent years.

If you’re a home buyer or seller in Kirkland, it’s time to rethink your strategy. The game is still on—but the field has shifted.

A Quick Rundown of the Market Reality

Let’s ground the narrative in data. Here are some of the latest indicators for Kirkland real estate:

The median sale price in Kirkland most recently hovered around $1,270,000, which is down about 8.8 % year-over-year. Redfin
Zillow reports the “typical home value” in Kirkland is ~$1,242,225, reflecting only modest appreciation (~0.5%) in the past year. Zillow+1
According to Realtor.com, homes are selling for about 1.03 % below asking price on average. Realtor
A key metric: median days on market has stretched. Where once houses might have sold quickly, currently properties are taking 51 days in some reports. Realtor
Movoto’s data aligns with this cooling: median days on market are ~41 days, up from ~23 days last year. Movoto Real Estate
Inventory is growing: more homes are sitting longer, and price reductions are more common. Movoto Real Estate+2Redfin+2

Combine all this, and you see patterns typical of a softening market. Less bidding frenzy, more negotiation, more time for buyers to circle the bases before swinging.

Mariners Momentum vs. Market Cooldown

In baseball, a team on a roll seems unstoppable—everything clicks. But a real estate market, like a season, has ebbs and flows. Right now, Kirkland’s market is cooling from the blistering pace we saw in 2021–2022. Sellers who rely on the memory of all-out bidding wars will often find themselves batting below expectations.

Buyers, on the other hand, are stepping into the box with better counts. They can wait, map their approach, and demand more favorable terms or repairs. It’s not that the game’s over—it’s that the rules have changed.

What Buyers Should Do (While the Count’s in Their Favor)

Take your time. You don’t have to jump at the first “good” home. With more inventory and fewer rush offers, you can afford to shop smart.
Negotiate more boldly. Ask for credits, inspection repairs, or better financing terms. In this type of market, sellers are more likely to respond.
Watch for price reductions. Homes priced aggressively often need to adjust. An active listing that’s been on the market for weeks with no activity is a red flag.
Get your financing in order. Be ready with pre-approval and strong terms. That gives you credibility when you finally make an offer.

What Sellers Must Adjust (If They Want to Stay in the Game)

Price with precision. Overpricing is deadly now. In a softening market, homes above market often struggle to generate interest.
Max your presentation. Clean, staged, updated, and well-photographed homes will still stand out.
Be flexible. Be open to contingencies, repair credits, or flexible terms. In today’s environment, rigid terms often lose deals.
Expect some lag. Accepting that your home may stay on the market longer is part of adapting to these conditions.

A Season of Strategy, Not Swinging Wild

The Mariners know a championship doesn’t come from 162 home runs—it comes from consistency, smart plays, and adapting mid-game. Kirkland real estate similarly rewards patience, sharp strategy, and flexibility now.

Buyers have an edge. Sellers who adjust can still win. And just like in baseball, the real prize is not just “winning today”—it’s staying in the game for the long haul.

So don your Mariners gear, settle into your seat, and let’s call the next play wisely. ⚾🏡

ABOUT JASON MESNICK

Jason Mesnick is a Seattle-area real estate agent and founder of The Mesnick Group. He specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate the ever-changing Pacific Northwest housing market. Reach out directly for a custom home-ownership strategy!