Is October a Good Time to Sell in Whatcom County?

Market insights for sellers considering listing before winter.

Ah, October — the month of pumpkin spice, golden leaves, and football Sundays. While most people are focused on cozying up for fall, smart homeowners are asking a savvy question: “Is now actually a good time to sell?”

Short answer? Yes — October might be one of the best-kept secrets in real estate timing.

As your local real estate expert for Blaine and greater Whatcom County, I’ve seen the fall market surprise more sellers than any other season. Here’s why listing your home before winter could be a smart (and profitable) move.

Fall Buyers Mean Serious Business

By the time October rolls around, most casual summer browsers have stepped aside — which means the buyers still out there are motivated. They’ve spent months looking, they know what they want, and they’re ready to make it happen before the holidays hit.

In places like Blaine, Birch Bay, Ferndale, and Lynden, fall buyers are often relocating families, professionals transferring jobs, or retirees looking to settle in before the rainy season. They’re not window-shopping — they’re home-shopping.

Pro tip: Price your home strategically and stage it to feel warm and welcoming — you’ll stand out in a market where buyers are eager and inventory is lower.

Less Competition = More Attention

Summer tends to flood the market with listings, but come October, many sellers hit pause until spring. That means your home faces less competition, giving it a chance to really shine.

In Whatcom County’s current market, where inventory remains tight, buyers don’t have the luxury of waiting around. If your home looks great, is priced right, and hits the market in October, it could attract strong interest — even multiple offers.

Think of it like being the last slice of pumpkin pie at the party — everyone wants it.

Fall Curb Appeal Is Underrated

Who says you need summer sunshine to make your home look good? October’s crisp air and colorful foliage create the perfect backdrop for showing off your home’s charm.

Add a few tasteful seasonal touches — a fall wreath, potted mums, maybe even a plaid throw over a porch chair — and your listing photos will practically glow. In Blaine, the coastal light in fall adds a warm, golden tone that makes homes look extra inviting.

Bonus tip: Keep walkways clear of leaves and add some subtle lighting to make those early evening showings feel cozy and welcoming.

The Market’s Still Active in Whatcom County

Don’t let the drop in temperature fool you — the Whatcom County market stays strong well into fall.

Blaine, in particular, continues to attract buyers drawn to its coastal views, small-town feel, and proximity to both the border and Bellingham. With ongoing demand and limited inventory, sellers are still seeing competitive offers through October and even early November.

Interest rates may shift, but buyer demand for well-maintained, move-in-ready homes remains steady — especially as people look to secure housing before winter weather (and holiday busyness) set in.

So, Is October a Good Time to Sell?

October offers the sweet spot between the busy summer rush and the slow winter lull. You’ll find serious buyers, less competition, and the chance to show your home at its coziest. With the right marketing strategy — and a local expert who knows how to time the market — your fall sale could be quicker, smoother, and more profitable than you think.

Thinking about listing your home in Blaine or anywhere in Whatcom County? Let’s connect. I’ll give you a personalized market update, help you prep for a standout fall listing, and guide you every step of the way — from “For Sale” to “Sold.”