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March 20, 2024
How Real Estate Property Surveys Work in Washington: A Buyer's Guide

When buying a home in the state of Washington, you have an opportunity to request a real estate survey to identify the legal boundaries. Your mortgage lender might require a survey as well, if you’re financing a home purchase. As a buyer, you’ll want to know what a real estate property survey is, what it does, and how it could protect you as a homeowner in Washington. This guide answers all of those questions and more.

Read more
March 13, 2024
An Overview of the Seattle Luxury Condo Market

Seattle, Washington has experienced a luxury condo boom in recent years, with a number of new projects coming onto the market. This trend is reshaping the downtown Seattle real estate market in a number of ways. This guide provides an overview of the luxury condo market in downtown Seattle and the surrounding area, as of 2024. It covers popular condominiums, current trends related to features and amenities, and other factors relevant to home buyers.

Read more
March 6, 2024
A Market Comparison for Seattle's Most Popular Neighborhoods

Before paying hundreds of thousands of dollars for a home in Seattle, you want to make sure the neighborhood is a good fit for your lifestyle. This is arguably just as important as the house itself. So let’s explore the most popular neighborhoods in Seattle, from a home buying perspective.

Read more
January 16, 2024
Debunked: 7 Common Myths About Washington VA Loans

Surveys have shown there are many myths, misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding VA loans. Some people who are well-qualified for the VA loan program, and could benefit from it, might be reluctant to apply due to misinformation. As a Washington-based mortgage company that specializes in VA loans, we do our best to educate military members and veterans about their mortgage-related benefits. So today, we will “debunk” seven of the most common myths relating to VA loans in the state of Washington.

Read more
January 3, 2024
Why 2024 Could Be a Good Time to Buy a Home in Oregon: 3 Reasons

Will 2024 be a good time to buy a home in the state of Oregon? As a mortgage company that serves the entire Pacific Northwest, we do our best to educate home buyers on current real estate market conditions across the region. Today, we set our sights on Oregon.

Read more
December 1, 2023
What Are the Documents Needed For a VA Loan in Washington?

Military members and veterans in Washington often use VA loans when buying a home. This popular mortgage program allows borrowers to finance 100% of the purchase price, avoiding the down payment altogether. Like all government-backed mortgage programs, VA loans have specific requirements when it comes to documentation. Some document requirements come from lenders, while the Department of Veterans Affairs imposes others.

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November 30, 2023
Market Outlook for Washington First-Time Buyers in 2024

Are you planning to buy your first home in the state of Washington sometime during 2024? Wondering what the real estate market might be like next year and how it could affect you? If so, you’re in the right place. Sammamish Mortgage created this report to bring first-time home buyers up to speed on current market trends across the state of Washington so you can enter the market more prepared.

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November 20, 2023
How the FHA Amendatory Clause Works in WA State

If you buy a home in the state of Washington using an FHA loan, you will most likely be required to sign an FHA amendatory clause. The seller will have to sign it as well. This clause is sometimes written directly into the purchase agreement or real estate contract. Other times, it might be attached as an addendum to the contract. But in either case, it serves the same purpose.

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October 31, 2023
Average Cost of a Home Appraisal in Washington and Other FAQs

People tend to have many questions about the home appraisal process in Washington, and we’ve addressed some of them in the past. In this article, we’ll review the average cost of an appraisal in Washington, factors influencing the cost, and scenarios where an appraisal might either be required or warranted.

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October 25, 2023
What's the Most I Can Borrow for a VA Loan in Washington State?

VA loans are a popular mortgage option among military members and veterans in the state of Washington. Our state has a relatively large number of active-duty military, National Guard, reservists, and veterans. So, there are a lot of people who can benefit from this program. VA loans also tend to generate a lot of questions among borrowers, especially when it comes to the maximum amount they can borrow. Today, we will address one of these frequently asked questions: What’s the most I can borrow with a VA loan in Washington?

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October 18, 2023
Appraisals, Comparable Sales, and Market Values: A Washington Buyer's Guide

​​If you’re going to use a mortgage loan to buy a home in the state of Washington, you’ll probably experience the home appraisal process firsthand. In this article, we will explain the interconnected relationship between home appraisals, comparable sales, and market values. More importantly, you’ll learn how these things can influence the amount of money you’re able to borrow when buying a home.

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January 26, 2024
Fewer Price Reductions in Seattle Housing Market: 2024 Update

The Seattle metro area housing market seems to have undergone yet another shift over the past few months. After cooling down during much of last year, the local real estate scene has been warming up again lately. The latest evidence can be found in a new report published by analysts at Realtor.com. It showed an ongoing decline in real estate listings with a price reduction. This suggests that Seattle-area sellers are less inclined to reduce their asking prices compared to a year ago.

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October 12, 2023
6 Ways to Save Money When Buying a Home in Seattle, WA

Mortgage rates have risen recently, and Seattle home prices have also increased. So now more than ever, Seattle-area home buyers need to be budget-minded and market-savvy. Undoubtedly, higher housing costs make it harder for many people to buy a home. But “hard” does not always mean impossible. You can do several things to save money when buying a home in the Seattle area.

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October 6, 2023
An Overview of the VA Loan Closing Process in Washington

The state of Washington is home to many military members and veterans. This means many residents could benefit from using the VA loan program, which is reserved for this group. As a Washington-based mortgage company specializing in VA loans, we do our best to educate home buyers and mortgage shoppers about this unique loan program. Today, we’ll explore the closing process when using a VA loan to buy a house in Washington.

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October 5, 2023
The Minimum Property Requirements for VA Loans in Washington

When it comes to VA loans, the home appraisal is one of the most important steps along the path toward closing. The appraisal can determine whether the property is eligible for VA-backed mortgage financing. This article will explore the minimum property requirements for VA loans in Washington, where they come from, and how they can affect you when buying a house.

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September 28, 2023
California Mortgage Insurance Explained for Borrowers

In California, mortgage insurance is often required when a home buyer makes a small down payment. A smaller down payment results in a higher loan-to-value ratio, which can require the borrower to pay mortgage insurance. This article is an educational resource for California home buyers and homeowners who have questions about this subject. Below, we have answered some of the most common questions relating to mortgage insurance in California, including costs, requirements, and other key topics.

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September 12, 2023
7 Things to Do Before Applying for a Mortgage Loan in Washington

There are hundreds of articles online that walk you through the different steps in the mortgage approval process. But far fewer explain the steps home buyers should take before applying for a mortgage loan, to increase their chance for success. In some ways, the preliminary steps are even more important than the ones you encounter after applying for a home loan. This is especially true when it comes to budgeting and saving. With that in mind, let’s explore some of the things you might want to do before applying for a mortgage loan in Washington.

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September 6, 2023
Tips for Buying a Home in Washington During an Inventory Shortage

We’ve heard a lot about real estate market inventory shortages over the past few years, both here in Washington and also nationwide. Low levels of supply have challenged home buyers, especially in the more populous parts of the state like the Seattle metro. But when it comes to buying a home in the state of Washington, there’s a solution for almost every challenge. Today, we will offer some tips for buying a home in Washington during a persistent inventory shortage.

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September 15, 2023
How Do Owner's Title Insurance Policies Work in Washington?

We’ve covered the concept of title insurance in the past, from a who-pays-what perspective. But home buyers in Washington tend to have a lot of questions about this subject. So today, we will drill down and focus on the owner’s title insurance policy, in particular. Here’s what home buyers in Washington should know about owner’s title insurance policies and the important protections they provide.

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August 15, 2023
Will California Home Prices Rise, Drop, or 'Flatten' in 2024?

Forecasts suggest that house values in California could begin to rise at a moderate pace through the end of this year and into 2024. This would mirror the general outlook for the nation as a whole, and low supply levels have a lot to do with it. Here’s an update on current home price trends across the state of California, with a “best guess” outlook stretching into 2024.

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January 5, 2022
Should I Remodel Or Move?

There are several things to consider when debating if it is time to remodel or move, from your finances to your future lifestyle wants and needs.

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October 12, 2021
Main Reasons Why a 2021/2022 Housing Market Crash Is Unlikely

There are several reasons why a 2021 housing market crash is highly unlikely.

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April 6, 2022
Will New Homes Be Available For Purchase this Year?

How will the real estate market fare this year? More specifically, will there be more new home construction this year and next? This article will attempt to answer that question.

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December 16, 2021
A Seattle Housing Bubble in 2022? The Evidence Suggests Not

Many people may be concerned that Seattle may be in the midst of a housing bubble. Is it? And will it burst any time soon in 2022?

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February 26, 2021
Are We In A Buyer’s Market?

Two major indicators of home price trends showed a slowing momentum for home prices in December. The S&P Case Shiller 10 and 20 city indices reported that of 20 cities tracked, home prices were lower in December than for November.…

Read more
March 30, 2021
Fluctuation of Seattle Home Values

Five years after the housing market peak in 2007, home prices are finally rebounding.  New and existing home sales have also increased, even though home prices have generally been rising. In the July 2012 Home Price Index, home values increased…

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April 28, 2022
Case-Shiller, FHFA Post New Records for Home Price Growth

Home price appreciation has been very healthy over the past year. While mortgage rates are going up slightly more quickly than expected, demand remains high, and home prices continue to grow at close to the same record pace seen throughout 2021-22.

Read more
March 28, 2024
Basic VA Loan Requirements: Three Things You Need to Qualify

Explore the fundamental criteria for securing a VA home loan in our comprehensive guide. We delve into the key requirements including credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and documented income, providing insights to help military members and veterans navigate the loan process seamlessly. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or seeking to refinance, understanding these VA loan prerequisites is crucial for a successful mortgage application.

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March 25, 2024
Why Is the Tacoma Housing Market So Much Cheaper Than Seattle?

People researching the Seattle-area real estate market are often surprised by the home price discrepancy between Tacoma and Seattle. Home prices within the city of Tacoma tend to be significantly lower than those in Seattle. But why? What factors make the Tacoma real estate market so much more affordable, when compared to the city of Seattle? After all, they’re both part of the same metropolitan statistical area (MSA) and only about 30 miles apart.

Read more
March 21, 2024
Guide to Buying a Home in the Boise, Idaho Metropolitan Area

Are you thinking about moving to the Boise metro area and buying a home? You’re not alone. While population growth has slowed since the pandemic boom, the Boise-area real estate market continues to lure home buyers from other parts of the country. This guide gives you a broad overview of the Boise-Nampa metropolitan area, with an emphasis on relocation and home buying. We will cover everything from geography to economy, and from real estate market trends to local attractions.

Read more
March 20, 2024
How Real Estate Property Surveys Work in Washington: A Buyer's Guide

When buying a home in the state of Washington, you have an opportunity to request a real estate survey to identify the legal boundaries. Your mortgage lender might require a survey as well, if you’re financing a home purchase. As a buyer, you’ll want to know what a real estate property survey is, what it does, and how it could protect you as a homeowner in Washington. This guide answers all of those questions and more.

Read more
March 19, 2024
Using a VA Loan in San Diego to Buy a Home: A Borrower's Guide

VA loans are a popular mortgage financing option for home buyers in the San Diego metro area. In fact, San Diego County usually has a higher VA loan volume than any other county in the U.S. With its many Navy and Marine Corps bases and facilities, the San Diego area has a huge military population. That means there are many home buyers in the area who could benefit from using the VA loan program.

Read more
March 14, 2024
Is Bellevue Cheaper or More Expensive Than Seattle For Home Buyers?

Seattle-area home buyers often want to know how different cities and communities compare with each other, in terms of home prices. Today we address one of those common questions: Is Bellevue cheaper than Seattle, from a real estate perspective?

Read more
March 13, 2024
An Overview of the Seattle Luxury Condo Market

Seattle, Washington has experienced a luxury condo boom in recent years, with a number of new projects coming onto the market. This trend is reshaping the downtown Seattle real estate market in a number of ways. This guide provides an overview of the luxury condo market in downtown Seattle and the surrounding area, as of 2024. It covers popular condominiums, current trends related to features and amenities, and other factors relevant to home buyers.

Read more
March 12, 2024
Denver's Real Estate Market in 2024: Better for Buyers

Recent reports have shown that the Denver, Colorado real estate market could be more friendly toward home buyers in 2024. Home prices have flattened out after several years of steady gains. Houses are taking longer to sell with fewer offers. And the Denver metro area was recently singled out as having the biggest increase in new real estate listings over the past year.

Read more
March 6, 2024
A Market Comparison for Seattle's Most Popular Neighborhoods

Before paying hundreds of thousands of dollars for a home in Seattle, you want to make sure the neighborhood is a good fit for your lifestyle. This is arguably just as important as the house itself. So let’s explore the most popular neighborhoods in Seattle, from a home buying perspective.

Read more
February 21, 2024
Tech Employee Relocation Guide For Buying a Home in Seattle, WA

We’ve published many Seattle real estate market reports over the years, and most were geared toward home buyers. Today, we’ll offer some helpful insights for tech employees who are planning to relocate to Seattle in 2024.

Read more
February 14, 2024
Mello-Roos Taxes: Pros & Cons for California Home Buyers

In this guide: An explanation of “Mello-Roos” taxes in California and how they can affect home buyers, including the pros and cons of buying in such a district.

Read more
February 7, 2024
Homeowners Who Could Benefit by Mortgage Refinancing in WA State

Will the rest of 2024 be a good time to refinance a home in the state of Washington? Can homeowners benefit from the drop in mortgage rates that occurred at the end of 2023? Those are two of the frequently asked questions we’ll be addressing in this mortgage market update for 2024.

Read more
January 29, 2024
The Washington FHA Loan: A Fact Sheet for Home Buyers

As a Seattle-area mortgage company, we do our best to educate local home buyers about their different mortgage options. To continue that tradition, we’ve created an FHA loan fact sheet for borrowers in the state of Washington.

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January 23, 2024
Portland Housing Market: Buyer Friendly in 2024

Portland, Oregon, home buyers could enjoy a slower real estate market in 2024, with lower home prices and mortgage rates. For these and other reasons, the Portland housing market could be more buyer-friendly in 2024 compared to the past few years. Here’s an updated look at current real estate trends across the Portland-Vancouver metro area, emphasizing the above buyer-friendly conditions.

Read more
January 19, 2024
California Housing Market Inventory in 2024 Could Improve

Like many parts of the country, California’s housing market has suffered from chronically low inventory levels for quite some time. Supply levels dropped further during the first few months of 2023 due to higher mortgage rates that cooled the real estate market. But in the early days of 2024, California housing market inventory levels are starting to rise again. And once again, mortgage rates play a central role. Rate reductions over the past couple of months have brought more sellers into the market, increasing inventory levels.

Read more
January 18, 2024
5 Mortgage Trends Affecting WA Home Buyers in 2024

In 2024, home buyers in Washington could enjoy lower mortgage rates than last year (on average), along with higher loan limits for FHA and conventional loans. Those are just two of the Washington mortgage trends you should know about in 2024, if you’re planning to buy or refinance a home. So let’s take a closer look at these trends and what they might mean for borrowers in 2024.

Read more
January 16, 2024
Debunked: 7 Common Myths About Washington VA Loans

Surveys have shown there are many myths, misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding VA loans. Some people who are well-qualified for the VA loan program, and could benefit from it, might be reluctant to apply due to misinformation. As a Washington-based mortgage company that specializes in VA loans, we do our best to educate military members and veterans about their mortgage-related benefits. So today, we will “debunk” seven of the most common myths relating to VA loans in the state of Washington.

Read more
January 12, 2024
Average VA Loan Amount in WA State and Other 2024 Statistics

What’s the average VA loan amount in the state of Washington? How many VA loans are processed and closed in Washington each year, and how does that compare to the rest of the nation? These are just a few of the questions we can answer by reviewing a recent VA loan usage report published by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, summarizing the previous 12 months.

Read more
January 5, 2024
Myths and Misconceptions About Mortgage Down Payments in WA State

For a typical home buyer in the state of Washington, the down payment represents the biggest obstacle along the path to homeownership. So it’s essential for home buyers to understand the strategies and options available to them when making a down payment on a house. It’s equally important to tune out the common myths and misconceptions relating to down payments in Washington. And that’s exactly what we will focus on here today.

Read more
January 4, 2024
Hottest California Housing Markets of 2024, According to Realtor.com

A recent housing market forecast published by Realtor.com suggested that California could have several of the hottest real estate markets in 2024. Southern California, in particular, is expected to see significant growth in 2024 in terms of home prices and sales. Here’s a look at the hottest California real estate markets of 2024 based on industry analysts’ latest data and projections

Read more
March 25, 2024
Why Is the Tacoma Housing Market So Much Cheaper Than Seattle?

People researching the Seattle-area real estate market are often surprised by the home price discrepancy between Tacoma and Seattle. Home prices within the city of Tacoma tend to be significantly lower than those in Seattle. But why? What factors make the Tacoma real estate market so much more affordable, when compared to the city of Seattle? After all, they’re both part of the same metropolitan statistical area (MSA) and only about 30 miles apart.

Read more
March 21, 2024
Guide to Buying a Home in the Boise, Idaho Metropolitan Area

Are you thinking about moving to the Boise metro area and buying a home? You’re not alone. While population growth has slowed since the pandemic boom, the Boise-area real estate market continues to lure home buyers from other parts of the country. This guide gives you a broad overview of the Boise-Nampa metropolitan area, with an emphasis on relocation and home buying. We will cover everything from geography to economy, and from real estate market trends to local attractions.

Read more
March 19, 2024
Using a VA Loan in San Diego to Buy a Home: A Borrower's Guide

VA loans are a popular mortgage financing option for home buyers in the San Diego metro area. In fact, San Diego County usually has a higher VA loan volume than any other county in the U.S. With its many Navy and Marine Corps bases and facilities, the San Diego area has a huge military population. That means there are many home buyers in the area who could benefit from using the VA loan program.

Read more
March 14, 2024
Is Bellevue Cheaper or More Expensive Than Seattle For Home Buyers?

Seattle-area home buyers often want to know how different cities and communities compare with each other, in terms of home prices. Today we address one of those common questions: Is Bellevue cheaper than Seattle, from a real estate perspective?

Read more
March 13, 2024
An Overview of the Seattle Luxury Condo Market

Seattle, Washington has experienced a luxury condo boom in recent years, with a number of new projects coming onto the market. This trend is reshaping the downtown Seattle real estate market in a number of ways. This guide provides an overview of the luxury condo market in downtown Seattle and the surrounding area, as of 2024. It covers popular condominiums, current trends related to features and amenities, and other factors relevant to home buyers.

Read more
March 12, 2024
Denver's Real Estate Market in 2024: Better for Buyers

Recent reports have shown that the Denver, Colorado real estate market could be more friendly toward home buyers in 2024. Home prices have flattened out after several years of steady gains. Houses are taking longer to sell with fewer offers. And the Denver metro area was recently singled out as having the biggest increase in new real estate listings over the past year.

Read more
March 6, 2024
A Market Comparison for Seattle's Most Popular Neighborhoods

Before paying hundreds of thousands of dollars for a home in Seattle, you want to make sure the neighborhood is a good fit for your lifestyle. This is arguably just as important as the house itself. So let’s explore the most popular neighborhoods in Seattle, from a home buying perspective.

Read more
February 21, 2024
Tech Employee Relocation Guide For Buying a Home in Seattle, WA

We’ve published many Seattle real estate market reports over the years, and most were geared toward home buyers. Today, we’ll offer some helpful insights for tech employees who are planning to relocate to Seattle in 2024.

Read more
February 14, 2024
Mello-Roos Taxes: Pros & Cons for California Home Buyers

In this guide: An explanation of “Mello-Roos” taxes in California and how they can affect home buyers, including the pros and cons of buying in such a district.

Read more
February 7, 2024
Homeowners Who Could Benefit by Mortgage Refinancing in WA State

Will the rest of 2024 be a good time to refinance a home in the state of Washington? Can homeowners benefit from the drop in mortgage rates that occurred at the end of 2023? Those are two of the frequently asked questions we’ll be addressing in this mortgage market update for 2024.

Read more
January 23, 2024
Portland Housing Market: Buyer Friendly in 2024

Portland, Oregon, home buyers could enjoy a slower real estate market in 2024, with lower home prices and mortgage rates. For these and other reasons, the Portland housing market could be more buyer-friendly in 2024 compared to the past few years. Here’s an updated look at current real estate trends across the Portland-Vancouver metro area, emphasizing the above buyer-friendly conditions.

Read more
January 19, 2024
California Housing Market Inventory in 2024 Could Improve

Like many parts of the country, California’s housing market has suffered from chronically low inventory levels for quite some time. Supply levels dropped further during the first few months of 2023 due to higher mortgage rates that cooled the real estate market. But in the early days of 2024, California housing market inventory levels are starting to rise again. And once again, mortgage rates play a central role. Rate reductions over the past couple of months have brought more sellers into the market, increasing inventory levels.

Read more
January 18, 2024
5 Mortgage Trends Affecting WA Home Buyers in 2024

In 2024, home buyers in Washington could enjoy lower mortgage rates than last year (on average), along with higher loan limits for FHA and conventional loans. Those are just two of the Washington mortgage trends you should know about in 2024, if you’re planning to buy or refinance a home. So let’s take a closer look at these trends and what they might mean for borrowers in 2024.

Read more
January 16, 2024
Debunked: 7 Common Myths About Washington VA Loans

Surveys have shown there are many myths, misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding VA loans. Some people who are well-qualified for the VA loan program, and could benefit from it, might be reluctant to apply due to misinformation. As a Washington-based mortgage company that specializes in VA loans, we do our best to educate military members and veterans about their mortgage-related benefits. So today, we will “debunk” seven of the most common myths relating to VA loans in the state of Washington.

Read more
January 12, 2024
Average VA Loan Amount in WA State and Other 2024 Statistics

What’s the average VA loan amount in the state of Washington? How many VA loans are processed and closed in Washington each year, and how does that compare to the rest of the nation? These are just a few of the questions we can answer by reviewing a recent VA loan usage report published by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, summarizing the previous 12 months.

Read more
January 5, 2024
Myths and Misconceptions About Mortgage Down Payments in WA State

For a typical home buyer in the state of Washington, the down payment represents the biggest obstacle along the path to homeownership. So it’s essential for home buyers to understand the strategies and options available to them when making a down payment on a house. It’s equally important to tune out the common myths and misconceptions relating to down payments in Washington. And that’s exactly what we will focus on here today.

Read more
January 4, 2024
Hottest California Housing Markets of 2024, According to Realtor.com

A recent housing market forecast published by Realtor.com suggested that California could have several of the hottest real estate markets in 2024. Southern California, in particular, is expected to see significant growth in 2024 in terms of home prices and sales. Here’s a look at the hottest California real estate markets of 2024 based on industry analysts’ latest data and projections

Read more
January 3, 2024
Why 2024 Could Be a Good Time to Buy a Home in Oregon: 3 Reasons

Will 2024 be a good time to buy a home in the state of Oregon? As a mortgage company that serves the entire Pacific Northwest, we do our best to educate home buyers on current real estate market conditions across the region. Today, we set our sights on Oregon.

Read more
December 22, 2023
Lower Mortgage Rates Could Ease Seattle Housing Costs in 2024

In this report: a review of recent mortgage rate trends at the end of 2023 and how they could help reduce Seattle housing costs in 2024.

Read more
December 14, 2023
Seattle Housing Market in 2023: Year in Review

As we approach the end of 2023, we thought it would be helpful to take a look back at how the Seattle-area real estate market has changed over the past year. No one can predict future real estate trends with complete accuracy. But hindsight has a way of helping us prepare for the future and make more informed decisions. With that in mind, here is our 2023 year in review for the Seattle housing market.

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March 24, 2022
When Getting A Loan, Lenders Look At More Than Just Your Credit Score

Credit scores are important indicators of a loan applicant’s financial responsibility and capacity to meet fiscal obligations. Income, employment history, assets held, and a house that meets lender guidelines are also essential to a successful application.

Read more
February 26, 2021
Are We In A Buyer’s Market?

Two major indicators of home price trends showed a slowing momentum for home prices in December. The S&P Case Shiller 10 and 20 city indices reported that of 20 cities tracked, home prices were lower in December than for November.…

Read more
April 28, 2022
Case-Shiller, FHFA Post New Records for Home Price Growth

Home price appreciation has been very healthy over the past year. While mortgage rates are going up slightly more quickly than expected, demand remains high, and home prices continue to grow at close to the same record pace seen throughout 2021-22.

Read more
March 21, 2024
Guide to Buying a Home in the Boise, Idaho Metropolitan Area

Are you thinking about moving to the Boise metro area and buying a home? You’re not alone. While population growth has slowed since the pandemic boom, the Boise-area real estate market continues to lure home buyers from other parts of the country. This guide gives you a broad overview of the Boise-Nampa metropolitan area, with an emphasis on relocation and home buying. We will cover everything from geography to economy, and from real estate market trends to local attractions.

Read more
March 20, 2024
How Real Estate Property Surveys Work in Washington: A Buyer's Guide

When buying a home in the state of Washington, you have an opportunity to request a real estate survey to identify the legal boundaries. Your mortgage lender might require a survey as well, if you’re financing a home purchase. As a buyer, you’ll want to know what a real estate property survey is, what it does, and how it could protect you as a homeowner in Washington. This guide answers all of those questions and more.

Read more
March 12, 2024
Denver's Real Estate Market in 2024: Better for Buyers

Recent reports have shown that the Denver, Colorado real estate market could be more friendly toward home buyers in 2024. Home prices have flattened out after several years of steady gains. Houses are taking longer to sell with fewer offers. And the Denver metro area was recently singled out as having the biggest increase in new real estate listings over the past year.

Read more
January 18, 2024
5 Mortgage Trends Affecting WA Home Buyers in 2024

In 2024, home buyers in Washington could enjoy lower mortgage rates than last year (on average), along with higher loan limits for FHA and conventional loans. Those are just two of the Washington mortgage trends you should know about in 2024, if you’re planning to buy or refinance a home. So let’s take a closer look at these trends and what they might mean for borrowers in 2024.

Read more
November 14, 2023
Housing Market Outlook For Spokane, WA in 2024

The Spokane, WA housing market in 2024 anticipates modest growth, with a steady rise in home prices and a notable increase in inventory levels. Despite the challenges of higher mortgage rates, buyers and sellers are adapting, suggesting a more balanced market. This environment promises better opportunities for homebuyers while maintaining healthy activity for sellers.

Read more
October 9, 2023
Denver Housing Market Forecast for 2024: Steady Gains Ahead?

What’s the general outlook and forecast for the Denver, Colorado, housing market in 2024? Will the Mile High City hit a plateau next year regarding home-price growth? Or will house prices climb again now that they’re past the post-pandemic doldrums? While it’s difficult to offer real estate market predictions with complete accuracy, the Denver-area housing market seems likely to experience steady price gains in 2024.

Read more
December 14, 2023
Data-Based Predictions for the Seattle Housing Market in 2024

Should I buy a home in Seattle over the next few months, or wait until 2024? What will the local real estate market be like next year? What’s the general outlook and forecast for the Seattle, Washington housing market in 2024? These are common questions among local home buyers who are planning to make a purchase. After several tumultuous years within the real estate market, a lot of future buyers are now scratching their heads as to how to formulate a plan. We’ve created this report to help you make a more informed decision.

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October 2, 2023
California Housing Market 2024 Predictions: New Updates

In a previous article, we speculated on the possibility that California’s home-price downturn might end. Since then, even more evidence has come to light reinforcing that analysis. For example, data from Zillow and other sources show that the median home price has risen over the past few months. A new report from the California Association of Realtors predicts home sales and prices will increase in 2024. So, let’s look at these two “upturn” predictions for the California real estate market in 2024.

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September 20, 2023
Buying a Home in the State of Idaho: 11 Key Benefits

The population of Idaho has increased significantly over the past few years, and with good reason. The state offers several benefits for those relocating from other parts of the country. It’s arguably one of the best places to buy a home, and here are some reasons why.

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August 14, 2023
The Portland Paradox: Rising Home Prices Despite Slower Sales

Like many cities across the country, the real estate market in and around Portland, Oregon is experiencing something of a paradox in 2023. Home prices have begun rising again, despite the fact that higher mortgage rates have softened demand among buyers. This ongoing trend will affect anyone who is planning to buy a home in the Portland metro area through the rest of 2023 and into 2024. We recently published a detailed outlook for the Portland real estate market, covering a variety of housing-related factors. Today, we will focus on the counterintuitive combination of rising home prices amid slower sales.

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January 23, 2024
How Much Do First-Time Buyers in Washington Have to Put Down?

First-time buyers in Washington tend to have a lot of questions when it comes to the minimum down payment requirements for loans. Today, we will address these questions.

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January 23, 2024
Tacoma, Washington Housing Market Forecast Into 2024

Today, we’ll be examining current real estate market trends and conditions in Tacoma, Washington — one of the most affordable housing markets in the Seattle area.

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July 5, 2023
Overcoming Down Payment Challenges When Buying a Home in Seattle

It can be challenging to save enough money for a down payment, especially in the Seattle area where home prices running higher than the national average. But with proper planning and good old-fashioned financial discipline, home buyers can overcome many of these challenges and achieve their dream of homeownership. This article explores three of the most common down payment challenges Seattle-area home buyers encounter, along with some strategies for overcoming them.

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January 26, 2024
Boise, Idaho Housing Forecast for 2024: Heating Up Again?

As we move into 2024, recent forecasts suggest that the Boise area real estate market could become more competitive for buyers.

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May 19, 2023
Most Popular Type of Mortgage Loan for Washington Home Buyers

Home buyers in the state of Washington have a lot of options when it comes to mortgage financing. We have covered many of those options in previous blog posts. Today, we will focus on the most popular type of mortgage loan for Washington home buyers: the conventional 30-year fixed-rate mortgage.

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May 4, 2023
Closing Costs Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Home in Washington

Don’t overspend on closing costs when buying a home in Washington! Learn common mistakes to avoid and save money. Contact us to start your home buying journey today!

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March 15, 2023
Can Remote Workers Qualify for a Mortgage Loan in Washington?

Today, we want to shift gears and address a common question among remote workers in the state of Washington. Some employees who work remotely wonder if they are still able to qualify for a mortgage loan.

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February 23, 2023
7 Ways a Real Estate Agent Can Help You Buy a Home in Seattle

If you’re a first-time home buyer in the Seattle area, you might be wondering how a real estate agent can help you navigate the market. The truth is, an experienced agent can do many things to help a home buyer succeed. This includes everything from preparing contracts to analyzing the market. In this article, we will take a closer look at the many ways a real estate agent can help you when buying a home in Seattle

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February 8, 2023
VA Loan Co-Signers: Who Can Co-Sign On A VA Loan in Washington State?

It is very common for people to ask if they can get a co-signer on a mortgage or VA loan in Washington State, and the answer is they can. Of course, there are a few stipulations.

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March 19, 2024
Using a VA Loan in San Diego to Buy a Home: A Borrower's Guide

VA loans are a popular mortgage financing option for home buyers in the San Diego metro area. In fact, San Diego County usually has a higher VA loan volume than any other county in the U.S. With its many Navy and Marine Corps bases and facilities, the San Diego area has a huge military population. That means there are many home buyers in the area who could benefit from using the VA loan program.

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January 12, 2024
Average VA Loan Amount in WA State and Other 2024 Statistics

What’s the average VA loan amount in the state of Washington? How many VA loans are processed and closed in Washington each year, and how does that compare to the rest of the nation? These are just a few of the questions we can answer by reviewing a recent VA loan usage report published by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, summarizing the previous 12 months.

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December 22, 2023
Lower Mortgage Rates Could Ease Seattle Housing Costs in 2024

In this report: a review of recent mortgage rate trends at the end of 2023 and how they could help reduce Seattle housing costs in 2024.

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October 23, 2023
San Diego Area Real Estate Market Outlook for 2024

A recent report showed that the San Diego real estate market experienced the most significant annual increase in home prices over the past year. It also experienced significant inventory declines during that same timeframe. But what does this mean for homebuyers in 2024? What’s the general outlook and forecast for the San Diego real estate market extending into 2024?

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October 9, 2023
Denver Housing Market Forecast for 2024: Steady Gains Ahead?

What’s the general outlook and forecast for the Denver, Colorado, housing market in 2024? Will the Mile High City hit a plateau next year regarding home-price growth? Or will house prices climb again now that they’re past the post-pandemic doldrums? While it’s difficult to offer real estate market predictions with complete accuracy, the Denver-area housing market seems likely to experience steady price gains in 2024.

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January 26, 2024
California's Average Down Payment in 2024: The Latest Insights

It’s widely known that California has some of the highest home prices of any state in the nation. Because of this, it also has a much higher average down payment, when compared to other states. A recent report showed that the median or average down payment in some parts of California now exceeds $300,000, as of 2024.

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July 5, 2023
Overcoming Down Payment Challenges When Buying a Home in Seattle

It can be challenging to save enough money for a down payment, especially in the Seattle area where home prices running higher than the national average. But with proper planning and good old-fashioned financial discipline, home buyers can overcome many of these challenges and achieve their dream of homeownership. This article explores three of the most common down payment challenges Seattle-area home buyers encounter, along with some strategies for overcoming them.

Read more
March 15, 2023
Can Remote Workers Qualify for a Mortgage Loan in Washington?

Today, we want to shift gears and address a common question among remote workers in the state of Washington. Some employees who work remotely wonder if they are still able to qualify for a mortgage loan.

Read more
January 24, 2024
A Changing Market: Why 2024 Is a Good Time to Buy in Seattle, WA

A number of reports published during the first part of 2024 have shown there are fewer home buyers seeking properties in the Seattle Metro area. As a result, there are now more properties available for those planning to buy a home within the Seattle real estate market later in 2024.

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October 25, 2022
Rising Rates Make ARM Loans More Popular for Seattle Borrowers

Mortgage rates nationwide have increased quite a bit over the past 12 months. As a result, some home buyers in the Seattle area have begun to reconsider their mortgage options. And it seems the adjustable-rate home loan is gaining popularity in 2022. A recent report from the Mortgage Bankers Association showed an increase in the number of adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) loans across Washington and nationwide.

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August 15, 2022
Why It's a Good Time to Buy a House in Boise, Idaho

Here are 3 reasons why late 2022 and 2023 could be a good time to buy a home in the Boise area.

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July 6, 2022
7 Promising Signs the Home You’re Buying Will Have Good Resale Value

Consider how easy it will be to sell the home, even before you put in an offer. Will the property be easy to market and attract the masses of buyers looking for their new home? Read on to discover important factors to consider when buying a new home, with the potential of selling it in the future.

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May 9, 2022
5 Tips for Making Your Best Offer

What can you do to make your offer stand out? Here are a few tips to making your best offer and increasing your odds of coming out a winner.

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April 6, 2022
The Best Use of Time (and Money) When It Comes to Renovations

There are plenty of questions to ask yourself when it comes time to renovate your home. Should you do it yourself or hire an expert? How much should you spend? And what exact projects should you consider?

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April 4, 2022
What Emergencies Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?

Homeowners insurance is typically be required by mortgage lenders, to ensure they can recoup their loan amount if something happens to your home. This type of coverage can protect you and your belongings as well, but does homeowners insurance cover emergencies?

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February 1, 2024
Home Price Appreciation: What Will Happen in 2024?

While home prices soared over the past few years, what are they expected to do in 2024? Will we see the same level of price increases over the next few months?

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February 18, 2022
A Happy Tail: Pets and the Homebuying Process

It’s no secret that we love our pets, but what may come as a surprise is how large a role they can play in the homebuying process – and our lives. In fact, many pet owners admit that many of the decisions they make in life are done with their beloved pets in mind, and that includes the type of home they buy.

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April 11, 2022
Have You Ever Seen Housing Marketing Like This

Sometimes, it pays to wait for the right time to buy or sell a home. And for buyers and sellers alike, today’s housing market may be ideal for both camps. Let’s take a peek at the market today and help you understand why the current housing market is good news whether you’re buying or selling.

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April 7, 2022
Your Home Equity Can take You Places

Do you currently own a home? You’ve probably accumulated quite a bit of equity. Check out this infographic to find out how much home equity has grown over the past year.

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October 21, 2021
Americans Choose Real Estate As the Best Investment

Are you considering investing your capital into real estate? If so, let’s connect to help you achieve your investment goals this year.

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March 25, 2024
Why Is the Tacoma Housing Market So Much Cheaper Than Seattle?

People researching the Seattle-area real estate market are often surprised by the home price discrepancy between Tacoma and Seattle. Home prices within the city of Tacoma tend to be significantly lower than those in Seattle. But why? What factors make the Tacoma real estate market so much more affordable, when compared to the city of Seattle? After all, they’re both part of the same metropolitan statistical area (MSA) and only about 30 miles apart.

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March 21, 2024
Guide to Buying a Home in the Boise, Idaho Metropolitan Area

Are you thinking about moving to the Boise metro area and buying a home? You’re not alone. While population growth has slowed since the pandemic boom, the Boise-area real estate market continues to lure home buyers from other parts of the country. This guide gives you a broad overview of the Boise-Nampa metropolitan area, with an emphasis on relocation and home buying. We will cover everything from geography to economy, and from real estate market trends to local attractions.

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March 14, 2024
Is Bellevue Cheaper or More Expensive Than Seattle For Home Buyers?

Seattle-area home buyers often want to know how different cities and communities compare with each other, in terms of home prices. Today we address one of those common questions: Is Bellevue cheaper than Seattle, from a real estate perspective?

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March 13, 2024
An Overview of the Seattle Luxury Condo Market

Seattle, Washington has experienced a luxury condo boom in recent years, with a number of new projects coming onto the market. This trend is reshaping the downtown Seattle real estate market in a number of ways. This guide provides an overview of the luxury condo market in downtown Seattle and the surrounding area, as of 2024. It covers popular condominiums, current trends related to features and amenities, and other factors relevant to home buyers.

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March 12, 2024
Denver's Real Estate Market in 2024: Better for Buyers

Recent reports have shown that the Denver, Colorado real estate market could be more friendly toward home buyers in 2024. Home prices have flattened out after several years of steady gains. Houses are taking longer to sell with fewer offers. And the Denver metro area was recently singled out as having the biggest increase in new real estate listings over the past year.

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February 21, 2024
Tech Employee Relocation Guide For Buying a Home in Seattle, WA

We’ve published many Seattle real estate market reports over the years, and most were geared toward home buyers. Today, we’ll offer some helpful insights for tech employees who are planning to relocate to Seattle in 2024.

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January 23, 2024
Portland Housing Market: Buyer Friendly in 2024

Portland, Oregon, home buyers could enjoy a slower real estate market in 2024, with lower home prices and mortgage rates. For these and other reasons, the Portland housing market could be more buyer-friendly in 2024 compared to the past few years. Here’s an updated look at current real estate trends across the Portland-Vancouver metro area, emphasizing the above buyer-friendly conditions.

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January 19, 2024
California Housing Market Inventory in 2024 Could Improve

Like many parts of the country, California’s housing market has suffered from chronically low inventory levels for quite some time. Supply levels dropped further during the first few months of 2023 due to higher mortgage rates that cooled the real estate market. But in the early days of 2024, California housing market inventory levels are starting to rise again. And once again, mortgage rates play a central role. Rate reductions over the past couple of months have brought more sellers into the market, increasing inventory levels.

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January 4, 2024
Hottest California Housing Markets of 2024, According to Realtor.com

A recent housing market forecast published by Realtor.com suggested that California could have several of the hottest real estate markets in 2024. Southern California, in particular, is expected to see significant growth in 2024 in terms of home prices and sales. Here’s a look at the hottest California real estate markets of 2024 based on industry analysts’ latest data and projections

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December 4, 2023
No Changes To Seattle Loan Limits For 2024

Federal housing officials recently announced that they would be increasing the conforming loan limits in 2024 for most counties across the U.S. Here in the Seattle metro area, the 2024 conforming loan limit will be set at $977,500 for 2024. Home buyers in Seattle who need to borrow more than this limit can do so as long as they have the income to support it. When you borrow more than the conforming loan limit for your particular county, it’s considered a “jumbo” loan.

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November 14, 2023
Housing Market Outlook For Spokane, WA in 2024

The Spokane, WA housing market in 2024 anticipates modest growth, with a steady rise in home prices and a notable increase in inventory levels. Despite the challenges of higher mortgage rates, buyers and sellers are adapting, suggesting a more balanced market. This environment promises better opportunities for homebuyers while maintaining healthy activity for sellers.

Read more
November 9, 2023
The Rise of Accessory Dwelling Unit Construction in Seattle, WA

According to a Seattle Times report published earlier this year, there were more accessory dwelling units (ADUs) built in 2022 than detached single-family homes. That was the first time in Seattle’s history that ADUs outpaced single-home construction, underscoring the rising popularity of “granny flats” and other accessory dwelling units. The surge in ADU construction in Seattle partly stems from regulatory overhaul. In short, the city has made getting accessory dwelling units approved easier and faster to help ease the ongoing housing shortage.

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November 7, 2023
Tight Inventory Could Affect Seattle Home Buyers in 2024

Home buyers in the Seattle area might be tired of hearing about tight inventory conditions and other challenges. It can be wearying. But if you’re planning to enter the Seattle real estate market in 2024, you’ll want to have a clear understanding of current market conditions. Here’s an update on the housing inventory situation in Seattle and what it might mean for homebuyers in 2024.

Read more
October 23, 2023
San Diego Area Real Estate Market Outlook for 2024

A recent report showed that the San Diego real estate market experienced the most significant annual increase in home prices over the past year. It also experienced significant inventory declines during that same timeframe. But what does this mean for homebuyers in 2024? What’s the general outlook and forecast for the San Diego real estate market extending into 2024?

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January 26, 2024
Fewer Price Reductions in Seattle Housing Market: 2024 Update

The Seattle metro area housing market seems to have undergone yet another shift over the past few months. After cooling down during much of last year, the local real estate scene has been warming up again lately. The latest evidence can be found in a new report published by analysts at Realtor.com. It showed an ongoing decline in real estate listings with a price reduction. This suggests that Seattle-area sellers are less inclined to reduce their asking prices compared to a year ago.

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October 9, 2023
Denver Housing Market Forecast for 2024: Steady Gains Ahead?

What’s the general outlook and forecast for the Denver, Colorado, housing market in 2024? Will the Mile High City hit a plateau next year regarding home-price growth? Or will house prices climb again now that they’re past the post-pandemic doldrums? While it’s difficult to offer real estate market predictions with complete accuracy, the Denver-area housing market seems likely to experience steady price gains in 2024.

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October 2, 2023
California Housing Market 2024 Predictions: New Updates

In a previous article, we speculated on the possibility that California’s home-price downturn might end. Since then, even more evidence has come to light reinforcing that analysis. For example, data from Zillow and other sources show that the median home price has risen over the past few months. A new report from the California Association of Realtors predicts home sales and prices will increase in 2024. So, let’s look at these two “upturn” predictions for the California real estate market in 2024.

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September 20, 2023
Buying a Home in the State of Idaho: 11 Key Benefits

The population of Idaho has increased significantly over the past few years, and with good reason. The state offers several benefits for those relocating from other parts of the country. It’s arguably one of the best places to buy a home, and here are some reasons why.

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September 11, 2023
Boise Home Prices Are Rising Again, and It Could Continue in 2024

Now, as we approach the fall of 2023, the Boise-area housing market seems to be entering yet another transitional phase. After falling sharply through the second half of last year, home prices in the Boise metro area have started rising again. And this trend could continue into 2024, as well.

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January 26, 2024
Boise's Housing Market Inventory Has Declined in 2024

Housing market inventory within the Boise, Idaho metro area has experienced some serious ups and downs over the past few years. The current real estate market is not as tight or competitive as it was during the past few years. Even so, inventory levels have trended downward in 2024.

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March 20, 2024
How Real Estate Property Surveys Work in Washington: A Buyer's Guide

When buying a home in the state of Washington, you have an opportunity to request a real estate survey to identify the legal boundaries. Your mortgage lender might require a survey as well, if you’re financing a home purchase. As a buyer, you’ll want to know what a real estate property survey is, what it does, and how it could protect you as a homeowner in Washington. This guide answers all of those questions and more.

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March 19, 2024
Using a VA Loan in San Diego to Buy a Home: A Borrower's Guide

VA loans are a popular mortgage financing option for home buyers in the San Diego metro area. In fact, San Diego County usually has a higher VA loan volume than any other county in the U.S. With its many Navy and Marine Corps bases and facilities, the San Diego area has a huge military population. That means there are many home buyers in the area who could benefit from using the VA loan program.

Read more
March 12, 2024
Denver's Real Estate Market in 2024: Better for Buyers

Recent reports have shown that the Denver, Colorado real estate market could be more friendly toward home buyers in 2024. Home prices have flattened out after several years of steady gains. Houses are taking longer to sell with fewer offers. And the Denver metro area was recently singled out as having the biggest increase in new real estate listings over the past year.

Read more
February 7, 2024
Homeowners Who Could Benefit by Mortgage Refinancing in WA State

Will the rest of 2024 be a good time to refinance a home in the state of Washington? Can homeowners benefit from the drop in mortgage rates that occurred at the end of 2023? Those are two of the frequently asked questions we’ll be addressing in this mortgage market update for 2024.

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January 23, 2024
Portland Housing Market: Buyer Friendly in 2024

Portland, Oregon, home buyers could enjoy a slower real estate market in 2024, with lower home prices and mortgage rates. For these and other reasons, the Portland housing market could be more buyer-friendly in 2024 compared to the past few years. Here’s an updated look at current real estate trends across the Portland-Vancouver metro area, emphasizing the above buyer-friendly conditions.

Read more
January 19, 2024
California Housing Market Inventory in 2024 Could Improve

Like many parts of the country, California’s housing market has suffered from chronically low inventory levels for quite some time. Supply levels dropped further during the first few months of 2023 due to higher mortgage rates that cooled the real estate market. But in the early days of 2024, California housing market inventory levels are starting to rise again. And once again, mortgage rates play a central role. Rate reductions over the past couple of months have brought more sellers into the market, increasing inventory levels.

Read more
January 18, 2024
5 Mortgage Trends Affecting WA Home Buyers in 2024

In 2024, home buyers in Washington could enjoy lower mortgage rates than last year (on average), along with higher loan limits for FHA and conventional loans. Those are just two of the Washington mortgage trends you should know about in 2024, if you’re planning to buy or refinance a home. So let’s take a closer look at these trends and what they might mean for borrowers in 2024.

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January 16, 2024
Debunked: 7 Common Myths About Washington VA Loans

Surveys have shown there are many myths, misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding VA loans. Some people who are well-qualified for the VA loan program, and could benefit from it, might be reluctant to apply due to misinformation. As a Washington-based mortgage company that specializes in VA loans, we do our best to educate military members and veterans about their mortgage-related benefits. So today, we will “debunk” seven of the most common myths relating to VA loans in the state of Washington.

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January 12, 2024
Average VA Loan Amount in WA State and Other 2024 Statistics

What’s the average VA loan amount in the state of Washington? How many VA loans are processed and closed in Washington each year, and how does that compare to the rest of the nation? These are just a few of the questions we can answer by reviewing a recent VA loan usage report published by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, summarizing the previous 12 months.

Read more
January 4, 2024
Hottest California Housing Markets of 2024, According to Realtor.com

A recent housing market forecast published by Realtor.com suggested that California could have several of the hottest real estate markets in 2024. Southern California, in particular, is expected to see significant growth in 2024 in terms of home prices and sales. Here’s a look at the hottest California real estate markets of 2024 based on industry analysts’ latest data and projections

Read more
January 3, 2024
Why 2024 Could Be a Good Time to Buy a Home in Oregon: 3 Reasons

Will 2024 be a good time to buy a home in the state of Oregon? As a mortgage company that serves the entire Pacific Northwest, we do our best to educate home buyers on current real estate market conditions across the region. Today, we set our sights on Oregon.

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December 22, 2023
Lower Mortgage Rates Could Ease Seattle Housing Costs in 2024

In this report: a review of recent mortgage rate trends at the end of 2023 and how they could help reduce Seattle housing costs in 2024.

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December 14, 2023
Seattle Housing Market in 2023: Year in Review

As we approach the end of 2023, we thought it would be helpful to take a look back at how the Seattle-area real estate market has changed over the past year. No one can predict future real estate trends with complete accuracy. But hindsight has a way of helping us prepare for the future and make more informed decisions. With that in mind, here is our 2023 year in review for the Seattle housing market.

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December 5, 2023
Buying a FSBO in WA State: Pros and Cons, and How to Do It Right

Housing market inventory across the state of Washington is expected to remain tight in 2024, as it has been for several years now. One forecast predicted that we would see a decline in the number of homes for sale next year. Because of this, home buyers in WA State should explore all avenues for finding a property. And one of those avenues involves buying a for sale by owner or FSBO property.

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December 4, 2023
No Changes To Seattle Loan Limits For 2024

Federal housing officials recently announced that they would be increasing the conforming loan limits in 2024 for most counties across the U.S. Here in the Seattle metro area, the 2024 conforming loan limit will be set at $977,500 for 2024. Home buyers in Seattle who need to borrow more than this limit can do so as long as they have the income to support it. When you borrow more than the conforming loan limit for your particular county, it’s considered a “jumbo” loan.

Read more
November 30, 2023
Lower Mortgage Rates Could Increase Washington Home Sales in 2024

In 2023, higher mortgage rates cooled the real estate market in Washington and elsewhere across the country. But home loan rates have been trending downward lately, and some economists expect this to continue into 2024. According to one recent forecast, lower rates could accelerate the housing market and increase home sales across Washington in 2024. Lower borrowing costs could increase buyers’ demand and bring more homes on the market.

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November 30, 2023
Market Outlook for Washington First-Time Buyers in 2024

Are you planning to buy your first home in the state of Washington sometime during 2024? Wondering what the real estate market might be like next year and how it could affect you? If so, you’re in the right place. Sammamish Mortgage created this report to bring first-time home buyers up to speed on current market trends across the state of Washington so you can enter the market more prepared.

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November 14, 2023
Housing Market Outlook For Spokane, WA in 2024

The Spokane, WA housing market in 2024 anticipates modest growth, with a steady rise in home prices and a notable increase in inventory levels. Despite the challenges of higher mortgage rates, buyers and sellers are adapting, suggesting a more balanced market. This environment promises better opportunities for homebuyers while maintaining healthy activity for sellers.

Read more
November 9, 2023
The Rise of Accessory Dwelling Unit Construction in Seattle, WA

According to a Seattle Times report published earlier this year, there were more accessory dwelling units (ADUs) built in 2022 than detached single-family homes. That was the first time in Seattle’s history that ADUs outpaced single-home construction, underscoring the rising popularity of “granny flats” and other accessory dwelling units. The surge in ADU construction in Seattle partly stems from regulatory overhaul. In short, the city has made getting accessory dwelling units approved easier and faster to help ease the ongoing housing shortage.

Read more
November 7, 2023
Tight Inventory Could Affect Seattle Home Buyers in 2024

Home buyers in the Seattle area might be tired of hearing about tight inventory conditions and other challenges. It can be wearying. But if you’re planning to enter the Seattle real estate market in 2024, you’ll want to have a clear understanding of current market conditions. Here’s an update on the housing inventory situation in Seattle and what it might mean for homebuyers in 2024.

Read more
October 9, 2023
Supply and Demand in Housing

How is the current supply and demand situation in the real estate market affecting buyers and sellers? Read on to find out.

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November 17, 2022
Understand The Different Property Occupancy Types: Primary, Secondary, And Investment

There are a lot of ways you can use the differences between property types to help you get a better deal on a mortgage. Find out how to classify your prospective property buy, and get the best interest rate possible

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September 29, 2021
Seller’s Market Vs. Buyer’s Market: How Can You Tell the Difference?

Swings in the amount of available homes, interest rates, economic conditions, and demographic trends all affect the housing market. The direction of these shifts determines whether a seller’s or buyer’s market prevails. A common term used among economists is…

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April 25, 2022
How Do You Calculate a Credit Score?

Everyone knows that you need a good credit score to get a loan, but how do you calculate a credit score? This article will explain more.

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August 11, 2021
National Association of REALTORS – Sales of Pre-Owned Homes Dip

Sales of previously owned homes dropped in August by 4.80 percent on an annual basis for the first time in four months; the dip was likely caused by rising home prices. August sales were reported at a rate of 5.31 million; July’s rate was 5.58 million sales of previously owned homes.

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February 26, 2021
Are We In A Buyer’s Market?

Two major indicators of home price trends showed a slowing momentum for home prices in December. The S&P Case Shiller 10 and 20 city indices reported that of 20 cities tracked, home prices were lower in December than for November.…

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April 1, 2021
Homebuilder Confidence Rises For 9th Straight Month

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) released its Housing Market Index (HMI), showing another monthly gain — its ninth in a row.

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