As we settle into 2025, we turn to our trusted luxury real estate partners for their expert insights on the evolving housing market. In this special feature, they offer invaluable advice for buyers and sellers, highlight the trends defining the year, and share memorable moments from the previous year. Whether you're planning to make a move or stay informed, this insider perspective is your guide to navigating the year ahead with confidence.
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Max Rombakh
Windermere
+ What's Trending in 2025?
Since I specialize in new construction, the top trends I see for 2025 are: indoor-outdoor connectivity, “sensory” design elements, and entryway envy. If you want to follow more home trends join our email list at maxrombakh.com.
+ Tip for Buyer:
Working with an expert in the area you’re looking in will save you time and money.
+ Tip for Seller:
It takes more than just listing your home on NWMLS and putting a sign out in front of your home. Do your research before choosing a broker to sell your home. Zillow is a great place to start. There you can find a list of sales, testimonials and links to the broker’s website and social media.
+ A Personal Highlight from 2024:
We are proud to say we had another record breaking year finishing #1 in Washington State with a total of $289MM in sales and 117 transactions. Thank you to our clients and the community for trusting in me and my team and continuing to allow me the opportunity to serve with the utmost integrity and excellence.
Instagram: @maxrombakh
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Moya Skillman and Tere Foster
Compass
+ What's Trending in 2025?
- Location. Location. Location. The return to office trend will increase demand for close-in neighborhoods.
- Savvy sellers will price strategically. Gone are the days of overpricing and waiting it out.
- Normal interest rates are here to stay. Hot tip! Sellers: calculate the payment a buyer has to pay when you pick your list price.
- Presentation, presentation, presentation. Today's buyers are reluctant to do projects. A great broker has the experience and vendors to create the perfect presentation.
+ Tip for Buyer:
MAKE. AN. OFFER.
Shed the mindset of only making an offer once you know another buyer is planning to as well. Don’t wait for competition. And make sure your agent doesn’t wait for competition either! Too often we hear “call me when you get another offer.” Don’t wait for competition, it just causes you to pay more.
+ Tip for Seller:
Pricing and presentation remain the name of the game. Sellers who understand that will win this game in 2025. Select an agent that has the knowledge, experience AND expertise to navigate this new market for 2025. It is absolutely mission critical to your success.
+ A Personal Real Estate Highlight from 2024:
Helping over 75 clients make life changes. The fast-paced, reality TV shows aren’t actually reality. Our true mission is to help clients move from one phase of life to the next. Handing the keys to a first-time home buyer. Selling a childhood home. This is the “WHY” in what we do, and we are grateful every day to have their trust.
Instagram: @Teamfoster_re