DECEMBER 2025
@HOME N E W S L E T T E R
ISSUE 170
2026 Home Color Trends: Palettes for Every Room KIMBERLY QUEVEDO
he 2026 home color trends are transforming how homeowners approach paint, shifting from sterile whites and cool grays to warm
Living Room: Smoky Jade and Warm Neutrals A hallmark of the 2026 home color trends is the return to nature-inspired greens – and smoky jade is
making deep plum a standout for dining spaces. Apply this dramatic shade to the walls to create intimacy. It’s a palette that enhances evening
hues that feel personal and lived in. Designers call them “colors with soul” – palettes that introduce
leading the way. This blue-green shade shifts beautifully with natural light, creating a serene backdrop. Add
gatherings and adds an elegant glow to every meal.
depth, comfort and character to everyday spaces. Soft greens bring balance, neutrals create connection
depth with espresso or charcoal behind the sofa or media console and keep trim in a tan with soft green
Primary Bedroom: Dusty Rose and Grounded Green A key color theme is softness paired with
and rich jewel tones add creativity and dimension. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or
undertones. The overall palette delivers a refined, calming living room with timeless appeal.
contrast. A muted rose on bedroom walls brings a cocooned feel, while a deep, earthy green behind the
reimagining your entire home, these curated palettes highlight the best of the 2026 home color trends and
Kitchen: Warm Eucalyptus and Sunny Accents
headboard adds stability. Lighten the rose for a subtle ceiling wash to tie the room together and keep trim in
offer clarity for every corner.
Green cabinetry continues to dominate, and warm eucalyptus is one of the year’s most versatile
cream for airiness. This combination supports rest, comfort and calm – ideal for a sleep-focused sanctuary.
Entryway: Terracotta and Mustard Among the standout combinations within the
choices. It adds personality without overwhelming the space. Keep kitchen walls in warm tan for balance,
Home Office: Warm Black and Weathered Sage
2026 home color trends, terracotta and mustard set the tone right from the front door. Terracotta walls offer earthy warmth while mustard on doors, paneling or wainscoting adds cheerful character. Layer in olivegreen accents through plants or textiles for grounded contrast. This sun-washed palette transitions easily into surrounding spaces, creating a welcoming, cohesive feel throughout the home.
then introduce pale yellow inside built-ins, on a breakfast nook wall or through simple accents for brightness and lift. This combination feels both modern and enduring, giving the kitchen an inviting, personal touch.
T
Dining Room: Deep Plum and Gold The 2026 home color trends showcase a renewed appetite for moody, jewel-toned rooms,
For elevated work-from-home spaces, the 2026 home color trends lean into sophisticated contrasts. Warm black on most walls creates a focused, modern environment while weathered sage behind the desk softens the backdrop and reduces eye strain. Keep ceilings white and lighting bright to balance the deeper tones. Together, the colors form a stylish workspace that supports productivity and clarity.
Home Improvements That Wow Buyers CARMA STAHNKE
hen buyers walk into a home, they’re most likely comparing it to the many others they’ve seen online or in person. That’s why you want to surprise them with the
W
modern. A touchless or pull-down kitchen faucet is an affordable update that delivers both high-end aesthetics and practicality.
unexpected: elevated design elements, new technologies and unique features that leave a
Spa-Like Bathrooms Bathrooms may be small in square footage,
secret is to keep the drama limited to one area. Only then will an accent wall made of wood slats, textured
memorable impression. If you’re looking for a quick sale at top dollar, turn up the wow factor with some
but they have massive impact. Transforming one into a spa-inspired retreat tells buyers that this residence
stone, sculptural plaster or whimsical wallpaper give a room identity without overpowering the design.
attention-grabbing upgrades!
is not just lived in – it’s enjoyed. Rainfall shower heads, heated towel racks and backlit mirrors add subtle
Kitchen Flourishes That Impress
Statement Lighting That Steals the Show Lighting does more than brighten a room – it
luxury. The key is to combine quality materials (marble tile, floating vanities) with an interesting twist (wall-
The kitchen always attracts attention, but the homes that generate buzz go beyond standard
sets the mood, draws the eye and can even become a focal piece of art. Consider swapping out standard
mounted faucets, strategically positioned lighting). This balance of innovation, refinement and function
upgrades. Rather than simply replacing countertops, think integrated appliance garages, beverage stations
ceiling fixtures for a bold chandelier or sculptural pendant. Layered accent lighting such as under-
will make your bathroom impossible to forget.
or cutlery organizers. Soft-close drawers and pot-fillers over the stove are small improvements that, when
cabinet strips or stairway LEDs also creates drama and visual interest.
Hidden Storage Solutions When a home hides clutter, utilizes every inch and does it with style, buyers notice. Built-in shelving, drawers under benches and well-appointed cabinetry in unexpected places show craftsmanship and appreciation for detail – and resonate with visitors who are imagining their daily lives there. Bonus: Your listing photos will present a clean, spacious and welcoming abode that a family can grow into.
combined, signal value, modernity and style. When you’re aiming for maximum return, you want buyers to come through the door and feel something: surprise, delight or a sense of luxury. By blending bold design ideas, the latest technologies and quality craftsmanship, your home won’t just sit on the market – it will stand out.
Sustainable Enhancements Today’s buyers are increasingly looking for homes that are beautiful, sustainable and forwardthinking. Water-saving devices, energy-efficient appliances and smart controls lower utility costs and signal that the property is maintained and
Accent Walls With Personality An eye-catching feature against a neutral palette may be just the pop your house needs. The
Home Recipes with Coldwell Banker Tomlinson
Courtesy of halfbakedharvest.com
“Brûléed” Eggnog Croissant French Toast INGREDIENTS • 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 8 large eggs, beaten
• 20-24 mini croissants
• 2 cups eggnog (or whole milk)
• 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup Grand Marnier (orange Liqueur)
• Whipped cream or fresh fruit for serving
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
INSTRUCTIONS 1.
Butter a 9×13 inch-baking dish. In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, maple syrup, and butter. Spread the mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, eggnog/ milk, Grand Marnier, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Submerge each croissant into the egg mixture, allowing the croissant to sit for a minute and soak up the eggs. Arrange in the prepared baking dish. Pour the remaining egg mixture over the croissants.
3.
Cover and place in the fridge for 1 hour or overnight. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375° F. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the French toast. Bake for 40 minutes or until the French toast is golden and crisp. If the top begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil
4.
Serve the French toast warm, topped with whipped cream (if desired), and/or fruit Enjoy!
NOTES Every piece of this special French toast is soft, buttery, and very custardy, with a crunchy, caramelized sugar top. Top off with fresh whipped cream and maybe some fruit. Then enjoy the perfect holiday French toast bake!
HOME TRENDS: NEUTRAL HOLIDAY DECORATING THAT FEELS FRESH Texture plays a starring role in this muted aesthetic. Think woven stockings, faux-fur throws, linen ribbons, and ceramic ornaments. These tactile
Holiday décor doesn’t have to be bold, bright, or
This year’s neutral palette focuses on soft
overflowing with color to make an impact. In fact, one of the biggest home trends of the 2025 season leans in
whites, warm taupes, natural wood tones, and gentle metallics like champagne gold or brushed
the opposite direction: neutral holiday decorating. This understated approach brings a sense of calm, elegance, and timelessness to your home—perfect for sellers who want their space to feel festive without overwhelming buyers, and for homeowners who prefer a more serene seasonal look.
brass. These hues create a sophisticated backdrop that pairs beautifully with nearly any interior style, from modern minimalist to cozy farmhouse. Even better, neutral décor transitions effortlessly from fall gatherings to holiday celebrations without the need for a major overhaul.
elements add depth and warmth while still keeping the overall look clean and uncluttered. Natural materials—like cedar sprigs, eucalyptus garlands, pinecones, and dried citrus slices—bring an organic touch that feels fresh and inviting. Lighting is another essential element. Soft, warm glows from candles, string lights, and lanterns enhance the serene atmosphere without competing for attention. Instead of going big and bright, homeowners are opting for subtle illumination that creates a cozy, welcoming environment. The beauty of neutral holiday décor lies in its flexibility. It complements your existing furnishings, photographs beautifully for listings, and allows your home’s features—not the decorations—to shine. For anyone looking to elevate their holiday style without the noise, muted magic delivers a refined, calming, and undeniably fresh approach to seasonal decorating.
Coldwell Banker Tomlinson 4102 S Regal St, Suite 201 Spokane, WA 99223
@HOME WITH
cbspokane.com
ISSUE 170 | DECEMBER 2025
©Coldwell Banker Tomlinson. All rights reserved. Each office is independently owned and operated. If you currently have an Agent assisting you with the purchase or sale of property, this is not a solicitation for business.
Spokane & Kootenai County Market Snapshots - November 2025 SPOKANE COUNTY Average Sales Price
Current Listing Inventory
Median Days On Market
$435,419
1,746
24
Down 0.6%
Up 22.0%
Up 20.0%
Median Sales Price
Residential Closed Sales
Annual Residential Sales
$409,998
385
5,607
Up 0.1%
Down 10.0%
Up 1.1%
Average Sales Price
Current Listing Inventory
Average Days On Market
$788,667
1,091
133
Up 17.4%
Down 12.0%
Up 35.7%
Median Sales Price
Residential Closed Sales
Annual Residential Sales
$589,995
256
3,245
Up 8.5%
Down 6.2%
Up 5.4%
KOOTENAI COUNTY
November 2025, as compared to November 2024. The information in these reports are compiled from reports given by the Spokane Association of REALTORS® and the Coeur d'Alene Association of REALTORS® and to the best of our knowledge is accurate and current.
Market Insights Spokane County experienced a slight decrease in the average sale price, lowering to $435,419 marking a 0.6% decrease compared to November 2024. The median sales price saw a slight increase of 0.1%, settling at $409,998. The current inventory rose in a big way to 1,746 listings, an notable increase of 22.0% from the previous year. This represents a 4.5-month supply, an increase from November 2024, still indicating a seller's market. Residential closed sales also decreased by 10.0%, totaling 385 transactions. Additionally, the median days on the market increased to 24 days. Annual residential sales is up from year’s level, up 1.1%, totaling 5,607 sales. In similar fashion, Kootenai County showed increased price performance, with the average sale price raising to $788,667 reflecting a 17.4% increase from the previous year. The median sales price had an increase of 8.5%, reaching $589,995. Inventory in the area decreased by 12.0% to 1,091 listings. Residential closed sales saw an decrease of 16.2%, with 256 transactions recorded. The average days on the market increased to 133 days. Annual residential sales in Kootenai County are up 5.4%, totaling 3,245 transactions so far this year. As interest rates fluctuate and the market anticipates changes throughout the year, it's crucial to consult with your Coldwell Banker Tomlinson agent.