Kootenai County’s housing market is heating up with summer just around the corner. 

The median price of a single-family home in Kootenai County rose to $555,738 in May, a 2.3% increase from a year ago. The number of homes sold through May, 958, was up 3.5% from last year, while active residential listings climbed to 936 as of June 3, a 6% rise in one month. Average days on the market, 86, was a 10.4% decline from May 2025. 

“We are now in the heart of the summer selling season in real estate — traditionally the time of year when we see the highest level of activity from both buyers and sellers,” said Jennifer Smock, co-owner, managing broker with Windermere/Coeur d’Alene Realty. 

Smock said the premier and luxury market has been particularly strong.

Historically, the local housing market has seen fewer than 30 homes sell for more than $2 million between March and June. This year, that number has significantly increased.

“Notably, the luxury market has included a sale exceeding $17 million in Black Rock, highlighting the continued strength and desirability of North Idaho's high-end real estate market,” she said. “While the broader market remains steady, these luxury sales are a strong indicator that confidence remains high among affluent buyers who continue to recognize the exceptional value, lifestyle and investment opportunities our region offers.” 

The housing market in Shoshone County also saw increases. The median single-family home price climbed to $317,000, up 7.3%, while homes sold through May totaled 68, up 9.7%. Active listings, however, fell to 92, down from 128 one year ago. 

Jared McFarland, a real estate agent with Century 21 Beutler and Associates, said a beautiful spring kept buyers active, and with summer almost here, he expects activity to continue to increase.

“Interest rates and global news events continue to affect affordability, which remains one of the biggest driving factors in the market,” McFarland said. “Short-term events like this can also create opportunities for buyers to find good deals before pricing moves higher.”

McFarland said rates have remained in the mid-6% range, but when they dip below 6%, buyer activity tends to increase. 

According to bankrate.com, the current average 30-year fixed mortgage interest rate is 6.55%, while the 15-year refinance interest rate is 6.08%. 

He said recent pending sales included a $5.5 million home and three others over $2 million. The majority of pending sales were between $350,000 and $550,000. 

“We are still seeing homes in the lower price ranges move very quickly, with higher demand in the more affordable segments of the market,” McFarland said.