In the real estate market, springtime is go time. It’s the busiest time of the year for home sales, and with this year’s stable economy and low unemployment rate, the spring of 2018 has the potential to be especially active.

Every market is defined by its trends, and while each year is different, identifying these trends early on can be a useful tool for buyers, sellers and agents to navigate the upcoming market and secure the best long-term solutions for themselves or their clients.

With that in mind, here are a few top real estate trends to watch for in 2018.

Inventory is tightening: While the spring will be flush with buyers, it remains to be seen if sellers will follow suit. The fall of 2017 proved to be sluggish in regard to the number of homes available for sale; in fact, total housing inventory was down 7.5 percent in November 2017 in Jefferson County compared to the same time the year before, according to Northwest Multiple Listing Service statistics.

Housing policies have shifted: The presidential election in November 2016 and local elections from this past fall have implications on housing policy. Adjustments to tax rates, the growth or decline of suburban options, and zoning ordinance changes may all impact the markets where consumers are shopping.

To better understand how these changes may affect the housing search in a given area, potential homebuyers should contact a licensed real estate agent who understands the latest housing policies and how those policies will affect a potential home sale.

APPS AND ACCESS

Technology: Like most other industries, real estate today is profoundly affected by the advent of technology. Homebuyers and sellers can go online or use apps to access information about a house or the market like never before, and virtual 3-D walk-throughs allow a buyer to enter a prospective home for the first time with few surprises.

For buyers and sellers, technology has the potential to reward those who do their homework and make the most of digital options before deciding how to use their precious time.

Navigating the 2018 market requires expert advice.

The 2018 market will be dictated largely by what takes place in the spring, and the trends discussed here figure to play a prominent role in most home sales and listings across the county.

Every market contains its own subtle nuances, but homebuyers and sellers everywhere will benefit from the expertise of an experienced real estate agent, one who can help them capitalize on these latest trends and leave the 2018 market with everything they ever wanted and more.

Charlie Arthur is the designated broker and owner of Re/Max First Inc. of Port Townsend. This real estate column runs monthly in The Leader and is written by experienced Jefferson County real estate agents.