We receive a lot of questions from borrowers regarding the prepaid items that go into their escrow reserves. Where do these prepaid items come from, and how will they affect your bottom line at closing? Here's an explainer that addresses…
This article explains how VA loan entitlements work for home buyers in Washington State and Oregon, our main service areas. Specifically, it explains why the actual loan amount could be several times larger than the "entitlement" figure shown in the…
Summary: This article provides a basic overview of the mortgage underwriting process in Washington and Oregon, our two primary areas of operation. Underwriting: The 'Middle' of the Mortgage Process Most home buyers and borrowers understand how the mortgage lending process…
Who pays the real estate agent commissions in Washington State, the buyer or the seller? This is a common question among first-time buyers and sellers alike. Here's the short answer: In Washington, as in most states across the country, it…
What kind of mortgage rates can borrowers in Washington State expect in summer 2018? Are rates expected to go up or down, and where are they right now? Here's a look at the latest trends. A Look at the Latest…
In some ways, buying a foreclosure home in Washington State is similar to a "regular" real estate transaction. In other ways, it's very different. So it's important to have a basic understanding of the foreclosure buying process before you take…
Gearing up to buy your first condo in Portland, Oregon? It's a smart move. Portland is a great city, and condominium life is a good way to experience it without the maintenance hassles of a traditional detached home. But there…
Home buyers in Washington State who need financing will be pleased to know that mortgage requirements have eased over the last few years. This is a trend we've written about in the past. Here are three ways that mortgage requirements…
For a long time we've been hearing how the major housing markets in the Pacific Northwest (like Seattle and Portland) have been on fire with fierce competition and limited supply. For the most part, that's still true. But the real…
Are you planning to buy a home in Washington State sometime during 2018? If so, you'll want to keep reading. This home buying report provides an in-depth look at real estate market trends across the state of Washington. It is…