If you’re a first-time seller—whether it’s a condo or a single-family home—you’re probably wondering:
Is now the right time to sell and move up to your next home?
With the Tri-Cities real estate market still favoring sellers in many areas, 2025 offers a smart window for those ready to sell their starter home and trade up to more space, more comfort, or more features.
In this post, we’ll break down the current market conditions for both condos and existing homes, and lay out a strategy for upgrading, so you can make your move with confidence.
🔑 Step One: Know Your Market Position
If You’re Selling a Condo (YTD 2025 Data)
- Median Final Price: $365,000+62Median Days on Market: 20 days
- Buyer/Seller Score: Buyer 2.9 | Seller 7.1
✅ Condos are moving quickly—especially updated, well-located units.
✅ Strong seller advantage means minimal negotiation and quick sales.
Your opportunity: Cash out on your equity while demand is still high and use your proceeds toward a down payment on a larger home.
If You’re Selling a Single-Family Home (YTD 2025 Data)
- Median Final Price: $443,000
- Median Days on Market: 38 days
- Buyer/Seller Score: Buyer 3.3 | Seller 6.7
✅ Homes are still selling steadily with minimal price cuts.
✅ Sellers hold the upper hand in most price ranges.
Your opportunity: You can likely sell at or near list price and use the equity to increase your buying power in your next purchase.
🧭 Step Two: Set a Realistic Upgrade Goal
Ask yourself:
- Do you want more space (bedrooms, yard, garage)?
- Are you looking for newer construction, better finishes, or modern features?
- Do you want to move closer to schools, work, or amenities?
Once you know your goal, you can match it with what the market offers. Here’s a quick look at what your next home might look like:
Current Pricing Landscape (YTD 2025)
| Market Segment | Median Final Price | Avg. Sq. Ft. | Median DOM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Condos | $365,000 | 1,532 sq. ft. | 20 days |
| Existing Homes | $443,000 | 2,125 sq. ft. | 38 days |
| New Construction | $492,250 | 1,956 sq. ft. | 89 days |
If you’re coming from a condo and upgrading to a house, expect a jump of $70,000–$100,000 in price. If you’re upgrading from a small single-family home, new construction could offer better finishes for a slightly higher price and longer timelines, which may work in your favor.
🛠️ Step Three: Build Your Sell-and-Buy Strategy
Here’s a simple path to follow:
1. List Your Current Home First
- With strong seller scores, both condos and homes are likely to sell quickly.
- Stage it well, price it right, and market to your target audience.
2. Explore Upgrade Options Simultaneously
- Begin touring move-up homes or new construction models.
- Consider extended closing timelines, rent-backs, or temporary housing.
3. Use Your Equity Wisely
- Apply equity from your sale to increase your down payment, reduce PMI, or lower your monthly mortgage on your next home.
4. Time the Transition
- Leverage your listing’s strength to negotiate favorable closing dates.
- Look for builders or sellers offering contingent offers, flexible closings, or temporary occupancy.
🔍 Key Tips by Seller Type
If You’re a Condo Seller:
- Focus on updated interiors, strong staging, and low-maintenance perks to attract younger buyers or investors.
- Use quick DOM to your advantage and time your move into a larger resale or entry-level new home.
If You’re a Home Seller:
- Take advantage of seller leverage to maximize equity and consider moving into new construction, where timelines allow for smoother transitions.
Final Thoughts: The Market Is on Your Side—With the Right Plan
Whether you’re selling a condo or a single-family home, the Tri-Cities market in 2025 is still offering strong returns, short DOM, and solid buyer activity. That gives first-time sellers a unique opportunity to scale up without facing overwhelming buyer competition.
If you want a personalized upgrade plan or need help coordinating a smooth sale-to-purchase process, contact ryan@kenmoreteam.com or call 509.987.4544. We’ll help you move forward with strategy, clarity, and confidence.