Des Moines, WA January 2026: Home Sales and Market Trends Update

Curious about what the current real estate environment means for your goals in Des Moines, WA this January 2026? The start of the year unlocks pivotal numbers for both home buyers and sellers, making it crucial to understand local trends early. With market activity stirring, do you feel ready to make confident moves in Des Moines, WA?

With a median sales price of $540,000 and 36 active listings, the Des Moines, WA real estate market is shaping up as a space rich with opportunity. Key figures—like 2.1 months of inventory and an average of 21 days on market—set the tone for negotiations this month and serve as leading indicators for client decision making.

The January 2026 Landscape in Des Moines, WA

Buyers and sellers alike should take note that the price per square foot now stands at $335, offering a measurable benchmark for those comparing across properties. New listings reaching 22, and closed sales totaling 17, point to a steady transacting environment. Why does this matter? Understanding the ratio of new to closed sales helps buyers gauge competition while offering sellers a measure of transaction speed for this month.

For those considering if it is a good time to buy in Des Moines, WA, note that a median sale price increase of 2 percent over last year demonstrates underlying market confidence without unsustainable escalation. Prospective sellers are supported by a list-to-sale ratio of 98.1 percent, meaning well-priced properties tend to fetch near their asking price.

Median Price and Inventory in January 2026

The median home price of $540,000 reflects a market that remains accessible, particularly for buyers seeking affordable homes in Des Moines, WA this January 2026. For sellers, maintaining quality presentation and realistic pricing is rewarded with faster transaction times in this low inventory climate. The months of inventory at 2.1 suggest buyers must be prepared, yet the supply is not so tight as to lock out new entrants.

Days on Market and Buyer Opportunity

Averaging only 21 days on market, listings demand client readiness. Short market windows signal competitive conditions, but highlight that homes at or near the $335 per square foot mark can sell swiftly when well positioned. Listing agents should spotlight price per square foot as a talking point during home tours and consultations.

Navigating Des Moines, WA Real Estate: Listings, Reductions, and Pending Sales

There are 22 new listings introduced for January 2026, alongside 15 pending sales and 8 recent price reductions. When combined, these stats guide both sides of the transaction in real time—sellers can calibrate pricing strategies, and buyers can target recent reductions for negotiation.

• 36 active listings mean a solid selection for buyers and room for sellers to differentiate.
• An average 21 days on the market keeps urgency high for both buyers and sellers in Des Moines, WA.
• Closed sales at 17 suggest a healthy, sustainable level of market turnover.
• List-to-sale ratio at 98.1 percent assures sellers that realistic pricing pays off and gives buyers clarity on what offers are most likely to succeed.

How to Sell Your House Fast in Des Moines, WA

With buyer activity and a near-98 percent list-to-sale price ratio, sellers can maximize success by pricing homes realistically and exploring market-ready upgrades. For those asking how to sell your house fast in Des Moines, WA, these steps can prove decisive in January 2026.

Mike Rudnev is ready to navigate intricate negotiations throughout Des Moines, WA. As a result, whether you are seeking to buy, sell, or compare, this market snapshot sets the stage for data-driven conversations all month.

Smart Approaches for Buyers and Sellers

By focusing on the affordability and activity in Des Moines, WA this January 2026, both buyers and sellers can tailor approaches that reflect evolving demand. From regular price reviews to targeted offer strategies, using data-driven tactics gives you an upper hand this month.

Ready to act on real insights? Discover the difference with real-time Des Moines, WA guidance and plan your next step in January 2026.