Whether you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in Kennewick, timing matters. With the spring season underway, it’s the perfect time to ask:
Is Kennewick currently a buyer’s market or a seller’s market?
To find out, we’ve analyzed the latest data from existing and new construction single-family homes across three distinct periods:
- Past 12 Months
- Year to Date (Jan–Mar 2025)
- March 2025 (Last Full Month)
Let’s break down what’s happening—and what it means for you.
1. Inventory & Market Activity: Existing Homes Dominate
| Time Frame | Market Type | Listings per Day | Sales per Day | Median Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Past 12 Months | Existing Homes | 1.84 | 1.63 | $420,000 |
| New Construction | 0.78 | 0.48 | $499,900 | |
| YTD 2025 | Existing Homes | 1.59 | 1.25 | $433,250 |
| New Construction | 0.70 | 0.32 | $499,900 | |
| March 2025 | Existing Homes | 61 total | 43 total | $435,000 |
| New Construction | 26 total | 6 total | $479,950 |
Insight:
- Existing construction homes make up the majority of sales and continue to move at a consistent pace.
- New construction remains more expensive and sees significantly lower daily sales volume.
This suggests that buyers looking for affordability and faster closings are gravitating toward resale homes, while new construction appeals to those prioritizing upgrades and flexibility—albeit with slower turnover.
2. Days on Market: Speed Favors Existing Homes
| Segment | Median DOM (12 mo) | Median DOM (YTD) | Median DOM (March) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Existing Homes | 24 days | 42 days | 29 days |
| New Construction | 104 days | 100 days | 119 days |
Insight:
- Existing homes are consistently selling fast, with most properties going under contract in under 30–40 days.
- New construction is significantly slower, with homes taking 3–4 months (or more) to sell.
This is a clear sign that existing homes are in higher demand, and sellers can expect a faster, more competitive sale if their home is priced and prepared properly.
3. Buyer vs. Seller Leverage: A Tale of Two Markets
| Segment | Buyer Score (YTD) | Seller Score (YTD) | Buyer Score (March) | Seller Score (March) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Existing Homes | 2.8 | 7.2 | 2.9 | 7.1 |
| New Construction | 6.3 | 3.7 | 6.8 | 3.2 |
Insight:
- The existing home market strongly favors sellers. High seller scores and low buyer scores confirm that homes are selling with minimal concessions and competitive offers.
- The new construction market is shifting toward buyers, offering longer timelines, more negotiation power, and opportunities to score deals or incentives from builders.
4. Pricing Trends: Holding Steady with Slight Growth
| Segment | Median Sale Price (12 mo) | Median Sale Price (YTD) | Median Sale Price (March) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Existing Homes | $420,000 | $433,250 | $435,000 |
| New Construction | $499,900 | $499,900 | $479,950 |
Insight:
- Prices for existing homes have gradually increased from 2024 into 2025.
- New construction pricing has stayed flat, or slightly dipped in March—likely a response to slower sales and increased buyer expectations.
Final Market Insight: A Dual-Speed Market in Kennewick
- Sellers of existing homes are in a strong position, with short days on market, rising prices, and minimal negotiation.
- Buyers in the new construction space are gaining leverage as inventory sits longer and builders remain motivated to close.
This creates a dual-speed market:
- Seller’s market in existing construction
- Buyer’s market tendencies in new construction
What Should You Do Next?
If You’re a Seller:
- Now is an excellent time to list your existing home. Demand is high, homes are moving quickly, and prices are trending up.
- New construction sellers (e.g. builders) may need to offer incentives or price adjustments to compete.
If You’re a Buyer:
- Be ready to move quickly on existing homes—especially updated or well-located properties.
- Take your time and negotiate on new construction. Builders may offer closing cost assistance, upgrades, or price flexibility.
Ready to Make a Move?
Whether you’re buying or selling in Kennewick, understanding the nuances between new and existing homes is key to making smart, confident real estate decisions.
Need help navigating this market? Contact ryan@kenmoreteam.com or call 509.987.4544 for expert, local guidance tailored to your goals.