January 2026 SW Washington Market Update

Southwest Washington Real Estate Market Update | January 2026

The Southwest Washington real estate market started 2026 with rising inventory, stronger prices, and more new listings entering the market. While closed sales were slightly lower than last year, overall activity shows a region that remains active and attractive to buyers.

What is happening in the Southwest Washington housing market?

January brought a notable increase in new listings, which were up 18.5 percent compared to January 2025. Pending sales also rose 13.0 percent, showing continued buyer interest despite higher inventory levels.
Closed sales were down 12.0 percent year over year, which reflects a slightly slower closing pace to start the year.
Inventory increased to 4.1 months, and total market time rose to 91 days, indicating homes are taking longer to go under contract than they were last year.

One of the most notable trends is price growth. According to the residential highlights on page 2, year-to-date:

• Average sale price increased 10.7 percent to $631,100
  
  
• Median sale price increased 3.8 percent to $549,000
  
  

The rolling 12-month data also shows modest appreciation, with average prices up 2.4 percent and median prices up 1.9 percent. 

What this means for buyers

Buyers in Southwest Washington are seeing more homes come onto the market, which creates more choices and reduces some of the pressure seen in previous years.
With inventory rising to just over four months and homes taking about three months to sell, buyers have more time to evaluate options and negotiate terms.
At the same time, home prices are still trending upward, so waiting too long could mean paying more as the year progresses.

Key buyer takeaways:

• New listings are up, creating more options
  
  
• Inventory increased to 4.1 months
  
  
• Prices are rising year over year
  
  
• Homes are taking longer to sell, allowing for negotiation
  
  

What this means for sellers

Sellers in Southwest Washington are still benefiting from price growth, even as inventory increases.
The jump in average and median sale prices shows strong demand, particularly in popular areas throughout Clark County and surrounding communities. However, with more homes on the market, pricing and presentation are becoming more important.
Homes that are priced correctly and show well are still attracting buyers, while overpriced properties may take longer to sell.

Key seller takeaways:

• Average prices are up more than 10 percent year over year
  
  
• Inventory is rising, creating more competition
  
  
• Homes are taking longer to sell than last year
  
  
• Strategic pricing and strong marketing are essential
  
  

Southwest Washington real estate outlook

The Southwest Washington housing market is entering 2026 with strong price growth, rising inventory, and steady buyer demand. This combination points to a more balanced market where both buyers and sellers have opportunities.

Buyers will benefit from more choices and longer decision timelines, while sellers who price competitively can still achieve strong results.

If you are thinking about buying or selling a home in Vancouver, Camas, Washougal, Ridgefield, Battle Ground, or anywhere in Southwest Washington, let’s talk. A personalized strategy based on your goals and neighborhood trends can make all the difference.