Are There More Homes Coming Onto the Market After January? | Insight from Kitsap Real Estate Expert Bre Enbom

As the New Year begins, many buyers and sellers ask the same question: Are there more homes coming onto the market after January? Historically, the answer is yes—especially across the Kitsap Peninsula, where seasonal trends strongly influence housing activity.

According to Bre Enbom, Kitsap Peninsula real estate expert, January often marks the transition period between the slower holiday season and the more active spring market. “While inventory is typically lower in December, new listings begin to increase in late January and continue rising through February and March,” Bre explains.

Why Listings Increase After January

Several factors drive this post-January inventory growth. Homeowners often use the holidays to plan repairs, pricing strategies, and next steps. Once the New Year arrives, sellers feel more comfortable listing their homes, motivated by renewed buyer activity and clearer market conditions.

Additionally, longer daylight hours, improving weather, and stabilized mortgage rates make it easier for sellers to prepare and showcase their homes. In communities like Bremerton, Port Orchard, Silverdale, Poulsbo, Bainbridge Island, and Gig Harbor, this seasonal shift becomes noticeable by late January.

What Buyers Should Expect

For buyers, this period can be an ideal time to start or continue their home search. While competition slowly increases, there is still more flexibility compared to peak spring months. Buyers who stay active early often gain access to fresh listings before bidding wars become more common.

What Sellers Should Know

Sellers who list shortly after January may benefit from strong early-year demand with less competing inventory. Proper pricing and professional marketing are critical to capturing attention during this window.

“The market doesn’t suddenly start in spring—it builds momentum earlier,” says Bre Enbom. “Sellers who act early are often rewarded.”

Local Expertise Makes the Difference

While national trends suggest increasing inventory after January, local factors like ferry access, military relocations, and lifestyle demand influence the Kitsap Peninsula market uniquely.

If you’re planning to buy or sell in the coming months, connect with Bre Enbom, your trusted Kitsap Peninsula Realtor, for expert insight and a customized market strategy.