When it comes to real estate, national headlines often don’t tell the full story. And while the housing market may appear uncertain on the surface, a closer look at local statistics can offer insight that’s both reassuring and actionable. As I’ve been exploring the July numbers for the Portland, OR metro area, Vancouver, WA, the Mid-Willamette Valley (comprising Polk and Marion counties), and Clark County, what I’m seeing is actually a healthy and stabilizing market, just one that requires a more tailored approach.
If you’re considering selling or buying in today’s market, especially in sought-after neighborhoods with homes ranging from $800K to $1.5M, here’s what the July 2025 housing market update reveals and how it impacts you and your plans.
The Portland, OR Market: Stability with Strategy
Let’s start with the Portland, OR metro area. The market here is showing strong signs of balance, with inventory growing and sales activity holding steady.
Key Stats for July 2025 in Portland, OR:
- New Listings: 2,931 (very close to last year’s 2,905)
- Pending Sales: 2,177, slightly down from 2,191 in 2024
- Closed Sales: 2,055, again nearly identical to 2024’s 2,075
- Average Sales Price: $621,800, minimally down from last year
- Median Sales Price: $555,000, slightly up from 2024
- Average Days on Market: 52 days, up from 44 days last year
- Months of Inventory: 3.7 months, up from 2.8
What these numbers tell me is this: Sellers need to focus more than ever on showcasing their home in its best light. With more homes on the market and increased days on market, buyers are simply being more selective. This doesn’t mean your home won’t sell; it means it has to stand out.
As I always say, “Buyers are more selective. You’re really going to have your home showcasing in its best light.”
Mid-Willamette Valley (Polk & Marion Counties): Inventory Up, Closings Down
The trends in the Mid-Willamette Valley mirror what we’re seeing in Portland, OR, with additional signs that point to a transitioning market.
Key Stats for July 2025:
- New Listings: 334, up from 2024
- Pending Sales: Flat at 236 (identical to 2024)
- Closed Sales: 199, down from 224 last year
- Average Sales Price: $463,400, slightly down from 2024
- Median Sales Price: $445,000, also slightly down
- Average Days on Market: 58 days (vs. 55 last year)
- Inventory: 3.8 months, a noticeable increase
The increase in inventory is a big story here. Homes are taking longer to sell, and while prices are holding relatively steady, it’s a clear indicator that we’re back to a more normalized market, one similar to the one we had pre-COVID.
Vancouver, WA and Clark County: Buyers Gaining Choices
Crossing the river into Vancouver, WA, and the broader Clark County area, there’s plenty of alignment with the other regions’ trends, increased inventory, longer time on market, and fairly stable pricing.
Key Stats for July 2025:
- New Listings: 820, up from 2024
- Pending Sales: 639, up from last year
- Closed Sales: 584, down from 2024
- Average Sales Price: $640,300, slightly down
- Median Sales Price: $564,900, slightly up from 2024
- Average Days on Market: 49 days (up from 45 in 2024)
- Inventory: 3.5 months
We’re seeing more homes available and more time for buyers to make informed decisions. Like I mentioned in my video breakdown, “You’re going to see more inventory because you’ve got homes that are taking longer to sell.”
This shift does not mean the sky is falling. Quite the opposite, in fact. It’s a sign of stabilization, offering opportunities for both sellers and buyers just with different expectations than during the frenzied COVID-era market.
What Does This Mean for You?
Here’s the truth: we’re in a very normal market again. Not only are we seeing healthy levels of inventory, but pricing is holding fairly steady across our primary areas. Homes are taking longer to sell, yes, but buyers have more options, which makes thoughtful preparation and marketing more critical than ever.
As a full-service professional, my role isn’t just crunching numbers for you. It’s helping you understand what they mean in the context of your life and your goals. Whether you’re empty nesters looking to spend winters in drier climates, parents planning the next chapter, or professionals wanting to optimize your investment, the question isn’t whether the market is “good” but whether the timing is right for you.
“We’re in a healthy market. Things aren’t likely going to change really dramatically,” but I always recommend a personalized approach. Let’s connect voice to voice and create a strategy tailored to your next right move.
Looking Ahead: Will Interest Rates Finally Drop?
One big question on everyone’s mind: Will we see those long-awaited rate drops in September?
If rates dip into the 6.25 to 6.5 percent range, expect a flood of both buyers and sellers to re-enter the market. This is a window to watch closely, especially if you’re planning to make a move in the next 6 to 12 months. My team and I are keeping a close eye, so you don’t have to.
If you’re navigating your next real estate move in Portland, OR, Vancouver, WA, or the Mid-Willamette Valley, I’d love to help you make informed, confident decisions.
