'The dark side of Washington': One real estate broker warns the housing market is a canary in the coal mine for the state's future

May 17, 2026 - 22:57

A principal broker in Washington state is sounding the alarm on the housing market, calling it a warning sign for the region's broader economic future. Leah Courage, who leads The Courage Group at ONE Realty, argues that current conditions reflect what she calls "the dark side of Washington." She warns that the state's real estate sector is heading for serious trouble, and she sees it as a canary in the coal mine for what lies ahead.

Courage points to a combination of high interest rates, low inventory, and rising costs that are squeezing both buyers and sellers. She notes that many potential homeowners are being priced out of the market, while those who already own property face steep tax increases and maintenance expenses. The broker suggests that these pressures are not temporary but rather symptoms of deeper structural problems in the state's economy.

According to Courage, the housing market's struggles could foreshadow a broader downturn. She argues that if the real estate sector falters, it will ripple through other industries, affecting jobs, consumer spending, and local government revenues. The warning comes as Washington continues to grapple with affordability issues and population shifts. Courage urges policymakers and residents to pay attention to these signals before the situation worsens. For now, she advises caution for anyone looking to buy or sell in the current climate.