If you’ve been browsing Seattle Washington houses for sale, scrolling Zillow in Seattle WA, or checking Realtor.com Seattle daily, you might be wondering whether buying still makes sense—especially with higher interest rates and rising rents.

As a Seattle real estate agent helping buyers in West Seattle, Ballard, Capitol Hill, and Green Lake, I walk people through this question every single week.

The truth: Buying still pays off long-term—especially in Seattle.

Let’s break down exactly why.

1. Renting vs. Owning: How the Costs Really Compare

For many Seattle renters, the biggest misconception is believing renting is “safer” or more affordable. But here’s what the long-term math shows:

Renting

• Monthly payments increase almost every year

• You’re building your landlord’s equity, not your own

• You lose stability (leases end, rents change, inventory fluctuates)

• No tax benefits

Seattle rents, especially in neighborhoods like South Lake Union, Queen Anne, and Ballard, have increased significantly over the past decade—and are expected to keep rising.

Owning

• Monthly payments become stable and predictable

• You build equity every year you own

• Home values in the Seattle real estate market historically appreciate

• You gain tax benefits

• You can renovate, customize, and create long-term stability

Even when rates are higher, Seattle’s strong appreciation—boosted by tech jobs, limited land, and high demand—makes buying a long-term wealth-building decision.

Real example:
A buyer who purchased a home in West Seattle (98126) in 2018 has gained more than $220,000 in equity—simply by owning instead of renting.

2. Why This Matters Specifically in the Seattle Market

Seattle is unique. You’re not just buying a home—you’re buying into a market with long-term economic strength.

High Rental Demand Keeps Rent Rising

Young professionals, tech workers, and relocators continue to move into Seattle. That means competitive rents—especially in Ballard, West Seattle, Fremont, and Capitol Hill.

Home Values Hold Strong

Even when national markets soften, Seattle’s inventory stays tight.

When buyers search houses for sale West Seattle or house for sale in Seattle, they’ll notice this immediately:
There simply aren’t many homes available.

Less supply = stronger long-term appreciation.

Affordability Is Slowly Improving

With more buyers pausing due to rates, some Seattle listings are seeing:

• Price adjustments

• Seller credits

• 2-1 buydown opportunities

• More negotiation space

This gives serious buyers a chance to secure a home now and refinance later—while prices are still manageable.

3. My Perspective as a Seattle Real Estate Agent

Having helped hundreds of buyers navigate Seattle Washington real estate—from first-time buyers in 98103 to move-up buyers in 98116—I’ve seen the same pattern play out:

✔ Renters regret waiting.
✔ Homeowners build equity faster than they expected.
✔ Buying during slower seasons often leads to better deals.
✔ Refinancing later almost always improves affordability.
✔ Trying to time the market rarely works—buying the right home does.

One client told me, “I wish I bought three years earlier.”

It’s the most common sentence I hear.

Key Takeaways

• Renting in Seattle gets more expensive over time, with no equity built.

• Buying stabilizes your payment and builds long-term wealth.

• Seattle’s limited housing supply supports strong long-term appreciation.

• Affordability is improving due to seller incentives and reduced competition.

• The long-term financial return on owning still outweighs renting.

Ready To Explore Buying in Seattle?

Whether you’re browsing Realtor.com Seattle WA, comparing Seattle Washington houses for sale, or wondering what you can actually afford, I can help break down your options clearly and realistically.

📩 Message me for a free affordability review and a personalized list of homes that match your budget and neighborhood goals.