If you're living in a townhome in Seattle and thinking about making the jump to a single-family home, you're not alone. As the spring market heats up, many Seattle homeowners are asking: Is now the right time to move up?

With more buyers entering the market and fewer homes available, especially detached single-family homes, this season could offer both challenges and opportunities. Let’s break down what’s happening and whether it makes sense for you to upgrade now.

What’s Driving Home Prices Higher in Seattle?

Seattle’s housing market continues to see rising demand. Here’s why:

• Limited supply of single-family homes: Inventory remains tight, especially in desirable neighborhoods like Ballard, Ravenna, and Green Lake.

• Increased buyer activity: As mortgage rates show signs of stabilizing, more buyers are jumping back into the market, creating more competition.

• Spring surge: Historically, spring brings out both buyers and sellers—but this year, the number of buyers still outweighs available listings, especially for larger homes with yards.

These factors are putting upward pressure on prices. For townhome owners, this also means your current home may be worth more than ever—making it a great time to sell and use that equity toward your next move.

What to Expect in a Multiple-Offer Market

If you’re eyeing a single-family home, especially in neighborhoods like West Seattle, Capitol Hill, or Beacon Hill, be prepared for competition. Many homes are receiving multiple offers, often within days of hitting the market.

Here’s what that means for you as a move-up buyer:

• Pre-approval is essential: You'll want to show sellers you're serious and financially ready.

• Your current home’s equity gives you leverage: If you've built equity in your townhome, it can help you make a strong down payment or even compete with all-cash buyers.

• Strategy matters: You’ll need an agent who understands how to structure offers that stand out—sometimes it's not just about price, but terms.

The good news? As a seller yourself, you may also benefit from this competitive market. Many townhomes are in high demand among first-time buyers who are priced out of single-family homes.

Is the Extra Space Worth It?

Let’s talk about what you gain with a single-family home:

• Private yard: Whether it's for kids, pets, or outdoor entertaining, outdoor space is a big draw—especially after years of staying close to home.

• More square footage: Extra bedrooms, an office, or a dedicated living room can provide the flexibility that townhomes may lack.

• Fewer shared walls: More privacy and freedom to personalize your home, from landscaping to renovation projects.

• Long-term investment: Detached homes typically appreciate faster than townhomes, making this a smart financial move for the future.

But it’s not just about space—it’s about lifestyle. Ask yourself if your current home still meets your needs. If not, the trade-off in cost may be worth it.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

You don’t have to rush. Whether you’re just starting to explore what’s possible or you’re ready to make a move this spring, now is a great time to put together a clear strategy.

Here’s how I can help:

• Run a market analysis on your current townhome

• Identify single-family homes that match your goals

• Guide you through selling and buying at the same time, with as little stress as possible