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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 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.

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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.

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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.

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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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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 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 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 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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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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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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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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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 8, 2023
A Home Buyer's Guide to Kirkland, Washington

Are you thinking about buying a home in the Seattle metro area? Is the city of Kirkland, Washington on your short list? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we have created a guide to buying a home in Kirkland that includes everything potential buyer should know.

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October 9, 2023
Denver Housing Market Trends Affecting Buyers and Sellers

Hopeful homebuyers need to be prepared for challenging Denver housing market trends. Partnering with the right mortgage lender and making a strong offer can tip the balance in your favor.

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April 4, 2022
How Remote Work Impacts Your Home Search

Since there’s no need to regularly commute to a set work location, you’re essentially free to work from wherever you want, including in lower-cost areas. The question is, how can remote work affect the house hunting process?

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November 15, 2021
5 Reasons You Need to Talk to Your Home Loan Lender First

There’s a good reason to talk to your lender first before you start house hunting. It’s typically when you get pre-approved, the best rates, special perks, and lower payments.

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April 26, 2022
What Will Happen To Mortgage Rates In 2022?

Many people are wondering if the days of record lows are behind us, especially given the ongoing increases in mortgage rates week after week, despite the odd blip here and there. The question is, what will happen to mortgage rates in 2022? 

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January 10, 2024
Denver Mortgage Loan Officer: Choosing the Best LO for Your Needs

If you are ready to buy a home in Denver, CO, you need a home loan that fits your specific needs as a borrower. A Denver mortgage loan officer can help walk you through the process.

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November 9, 2021
How Millennials Have Changed Mortgage Shopping in Seattle, WA

Are you mortgage shopping in Seattle? This bustling city has enjoyed a complete makeover when it comes to online mortgage shopping, and you can thank millennials.

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September 29, 2021
Handy Tips That Will Prevent Serious Stress when Buying and Selling a Home at the Same Time

What happens when you are selling and looking to purchase a home simultaneously? The answer: is a little more complicated than you think.

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January 27, 2022
How To Win A Bidding War For Your Dream House

Finding your dream home is only the first step. Now you have to win a bidding war. Here’s how you can beat out the competition before they know what’s coming.

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April 13, 2022
A Bidding War Is Taking Place Among Homebuyers

Wondering if you can still purchase a home in the current market? Well, you can. Here are several ways to go from homebuyer to homeowner.

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January 3, 2024
Why Skipping a Payment when Refinancing Is a Misleading Concept

Because many weeks might elapse between closing on a refinance and making the first payment, some borrowers are led to believe that they “skip” a month of payments. This is false.

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November 3, 2021
Can I Get a Mortgage While I’m Furloughed? Or Refinance?

COVID-19 caused many companies to place workers on unpaid leave. This challenges those employees seeking to purchase or refinance a house. Still, there are ways to overcome the challenges.

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January 3, 2024
Best Ways to Use Cash Out Refinancing for a Home in WA State

One of the most valuable assets in the typical financial portfolio, home equity, is the least understood. In fact, it represents all kinds of potential for WA state homeowners.

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March 30, 2022
How to Start Planning For Your Next Home Purchase

If you were holding out on buying a home because of the uncertainty that ensued, you might be ready to buy a home now. Read on to discover some tips on how to start planning for your next home purchase.

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January 5, 2023
Top 20 Tips to Negotiate the Best Deal When Buying a Home

Here is a list of the things an ideal buyer would come to the table with. This list doesn’t mean you must meet all the below requirements, but for a seller, these are the attributes of a perfect buyer and the more boxes you can check the better.

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January 31, 2024
Boise Real Estate Market: Prices - Trends - Forecast 2024

What are the top Boise real estate trends this year? Perhaps more importantly, what is the Boise housing market forecast for 2024? Let’s answer these questions to help you determine whether next year is a good time to buy.

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October 11, 2022
An In-Depth Look At The Mortgage Pre-Approval Process

Gone are the days of lengthy mortgage pre-approval interviews. Now, you can get pre-approved for a mortgage completely online and in no time at all.

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April 6, 2022
Best Five Cities Near Seattle For Outdoor Lovers

Are you looking for a home in the greater Seattle Area, but aren’t sold on living inside the Emerald City’s limits? Check out these five great Seattle area cities for outdoor-lovers.

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June 27, 2023
Top 5 Neighborhoods To Live In Spokane, WA 2023

Are you seeking a home in Spokane, but aren’t sure which neighborhood suits you best? Check out this guide to the finest the Lilac City has to offer.

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November 10, 2021
Love The Outdoors? 5 Best Cities In Oregon

Are you looking for your new home in the beautiful state of Oregon? These five cities will please anyone with a love for the outdoors while delivering everything you’d expect from a modern city.

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April 6, 2022
Don’t Want To Live In The Center Of Denver? Check Out These Towns Close By

Denver home prices are skyrocketing, but just 30-60 minutes outside the city they drop by half or more. Find out where to buy a home in Colorado.

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April 5, 2022
Could Ballard in Seattle, WA State, Be Your New Home?

Wondering if the neighborhood of Ballard in NW Seattle, WA could be the best place to live and raise a family? Find out what locals love about Ballard.

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January 27, 2022
How To Win A Bidding War For Your Dream House

Finding your dream home is only the first step. Now you have to win a bidding war. Here’s how you can beat out the competition before they know what’s coming.

Read more
February 26, 2022
Meridian, Idaho is a Great Option For Those Looking To Raise a Family

Wondering if Meridian, Idaho could be the best place to live and raise a family? Find out how Meridian beats Boise as THE place to dwell.

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January 27, 2022
Helpful Tips for Sprucing Up Your Credit Before Reapplying

Get approved for your home loan this time. Take steps to improve your credit score—pull your credit report, keep balances low, pay bills on-time, reduce debt, and avoid opening/closing lines of credit.

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January 11, 2024
If You Like Portland, Oregon, You’ll Love Its Suburbs!

Portland, Oregon is surrounded by some very comfortable, safe and vibrant suburban communities. They offer varying amenities and are all known for low crime rates, excellent schools and well-educated residents.

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April 5, 2022
Best Work-From-Home Cities In The Pacific NW

Hundreds of thousands of employees were sent home to work because of COVID-19, and many may never be required to return to the office. These PNW cities are beckoning telecommuters.

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April 13, 2022
Unexpected Costs of Buying & Owning a Home in OR

The unexpected costs of buying/owning a home in Oregon are a fact of life. Whether you own your home or are looking to purchase, read about the surprises you can expect to face as a homeowner. From lightbulbs to roofing repairs let us help you prepare with first-hand knowledge from the housing experts.

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April 13, 2022
Routine Maintenance Of Various Systems In Your Home

Your home is likely the most expensive and valuable asset you own, so it makes sense to care for it to ensure its value stays up. The article will cover some systems in your WA, ID, CO, or OR home that require regular maintenance to keep running smoothly.

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April 5, 2022
The Best Areas to Buy a Home for Seattle, WA Commuters

In looking for the right community from which to commute to Seattle, home seekers consider schools, public safety, the speed and convenience of the commute, and the cost of living in each town under consideration. There are many attractive municipalities that meet these criteria.

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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 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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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 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 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 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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May 31, 2023
Mistakes to Avoid When Making an Offer on a House in Seattle

At times, the Seattle metro area can be one of the most competitive real estate markets in the country. Demand from home buyers frequently exceeds the available supply, forcing buyers to compete for limited inventory. This is why it’s so important to make a strong offer on a house when buying in the Seattle area. Making mistakes during the offer stage could result in the house slipping through your fingers or going to another buyer. That’s the last thing you want. So let’s talk about how to do things right.

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May 24, 2023
What's a Typical Earnest Money Deposit in Seattle These Days?

Home buyers in Seattle tend to have a lot of questions and concerns when it comes to the earnest money deposit. And as a Seattle-area mortgage company, we try to address as many of these questions as possible, right here on our blog. Today, we will answer one of the most common questions on this subject. What is the typical earnest money deposit amount in the Seattle area?

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May 16, 2023
5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Investment Homes in Washington

Investing in real estate can be a lucrative way to build wealth and generate passive income. But like any major investment, it requires careful planning, research, and due diligence to avoid costly mistakes. In other words, you have to know what you’re doing. Sometimes, the best way to learn the right way to do something is by understanding the wrong way. And that’s what we will focus on today. In this article, we will cover some of the common mistakes to avoid when buying an investment home in the state of Washington.

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May 10, 2023
8 Reasons to Have an Inspection When Buying a Home in Washington

When buying a home in Washington, you’ll have a chance to get the property inspected prior to purchasing. You’re not required to have a home inspection, but there are some good reasons to at least consider it. In this article, we will explore some of the biggest benefits a home inspection can provide for home buyers in Washington.

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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 30, 2022
5 Trends Shaping the Portland, Oregon Housing Market in 2022

We’ve provided a roundup of the latest real estate market trends for the Portland, Oregon metro area, as of summer 2022. Learn more now!

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August 15, 2022
What to Know About Earnest Money in Colorado

Ready to think about buying a home in Colorado? Working on your home buying budget? Don’t forget the earnest money, which will be tied up during the negotiations.

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January 30, 2024
What's the Best Time to Buy a House in Seattle?

Are you thinking of buying a home in Seattle, Washington? Knowing when to make your move can help you maximize your home buying budget.

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May 18, 2022
Medical Debt Reporting Changes Coming

What can you do about paid medical debt on your credit report? In the past, the answer was: nothing. You were stuck with it. This could make it extremely hard to buy a house or get a decent interest rate, since lenders look at your overall credit score in order to make their decisions. Good news: medical debt reporting rules are changing for the better.

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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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.

Read more
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.

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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?

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.

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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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March 1, 2023
FHA Mortgage Insurance Reduced for Washington Home Buyers

Do you plan to buy a home in Washington in 2023, using an FHA loan? If so, there’s some good news you should know about. Federal housing officials recently announced that they will be reducing the annual mortgage insurance premium for FHA home loans. This change could save Washington borrowers hundreds of dollars per year, by reducing one of the recurring expenses associated with FHA loans.

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May 23, 2022
What is Multigenerational Housing?

No matter what your particular situation may be – whether it’s bringing in older grandparents to care for them, to house adult children as they just get started in their careers, or other reason – a multigenerational housing arrangement may be just what you need.

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April 4, 2022
How Remote Work Impacts Your Home Search

Since there’s no need to regularly commute to a set work location, you’re essentially free to work from wherever you want, including in lower-cost areas. The question is, how can remote work affect the house hunting process?

Read more
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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June 24, 2022
Why a 2022 Housing Market Crash Is Unlikely

How will the rate of increase in home prices in 2022 compare to the past few months? Is there a “housing bubble” that could burst at any moment? More importantly, is 2022 a good time to buy a house?

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May 29, 2023
Reasons Why Renters Buy

There are plenty of reasons why renters might want to consider homeownership. In fact, many renters do eventually ditch their ‘renter’ status and become homeowners. What are the reasons why renters buy?

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March 15, 2023
How Much Income Do You Need To Buy The Average House?

Though the average cost of a home varies, even buyers making less than the national median household income can buy a house.

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November 12, 2021
Pros & Cons Of Paying Off Your Mortgage Before Retirement

There are several reasons you should consider paying off your mortgage before retirement, including freeing up cash flow for your household.

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January 10, 2024
Denver Mortgage Loan Officer: Choosing the Best LO for Your Needs

If you are ready to buy a home in Denver, CO, you need a home loan that fits your specific needs as a borrower. A Denver mortgage loan officer can help walk you through the process.

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November 24, 2021
Essential DIY Tools for New Homeowners

There are several must-have tools that every new homeowner needs, including a handy set of screwdrivers and a basic DIY toolkit.

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January 27, 2022
Winter Energy Savings Tips for Your New Home

A new home typically comes with larger energy bills, especially in the wintertime. So, why not do yourself a favor and follow these energy-saving tips for a warmer and more cost-effective home.

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November 15, 2021
Tips For Picking a Loan Term For Your Home Mortgage in Washington

There are compelling reasons to choose short-term mortgages and long-term loans. Nevertheless, the best way to decide is to consult with a WA State home finance and real estate professional.

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April 6, 2022
Face The Numbers, A Mortgage That Works For You

There are several things you can do to figure out how much mortgage you can afford, including calculating a realistic budget before purchasing a home.

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April 6, 2022
Divorce Is On the Rise Due COVID-19: What Does That Mean for the Real Estate Market?

With the pressure cooker of shelter in place adding fuel to the fire in some relationships, it’s no surprise that divorce rates are spiking… how will this development affect the real estate market?

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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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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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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 16, 2023
5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Investment Homes in Washington

Investing in real estate can be a lucrative way to build wealth and generate passive income. But like any major investment, it requires careful planning, research, and due diligence to avoid costly mistakes. In other words, you have to know what you’re doing. Sometimes, the best way to learn the right way to do something is by understanding the wrong way. And that’s what we will focus on today. In this article, we will cover some of the common mistakes to avoid when buying an investment home in the state of Washington.

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March 1, 2023
FHA Mortgage Insurance Reduced for Washington Home Buyers

Do you plan to buy a home in Washington in 2023, using an FHA loan? If so, there’s some good news you should know about. Federal housing officials recently announced that they will be reducing the annual mortgage insurance premium for FHA home loans. This change could save Washington borrowers hundreds of dollars per year, by reducing one of the recurring expenses associated with FHA loans.

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January 4, 2023
APR vs. Interest Rate: Why APR is a Terrible Way to Shop for a Mortgage

Don’t make the mistake of using APR alone to compare mortgage offers. Learn why it’s important to understand the difference between APR and interest rate.

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June 7, 2022
Experts Agree: Homeownership Provides a Path to Long-Term Wealth

The road to long-term growth of personal wealth starts off simple: with buying a home. Smart home buying coupled with savvy loan repayment and home maintenance can turn your house into a powerful nest egg that can be leveraged to grow your wealth.

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November 9, 2022
Mistakes to Avoid as a First-Time Buyer

Buying your first home can be a roller coaster of emotions and excitement. Mistakes are easy to make, so here’s a guide to avoiding the most common pitfalls for FTHBs.

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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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March 2, 2022
Buyers Are Finding More Space in the Luxury Home Market

Buyers in the luxury real estate market may continue to focus on high-end features, but lots of space may trump all other must-haves on their list. In particular, enough square footage to accommodate home offices, gyms, and other on-site amenities are what luxury homebuyers are looking for in a new home purchase.

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June 24, 2022
Home Affordability Isn’t The Challenge Some Are Claiming It To Be

Buying a home might sound like an insurmountable feat, but is it really? In this article, we’ll show you that despite the high cost of a home purchase, home affordability may not be as big of an issue as you may think.

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January 31, 2024
Boise Real Estate Market: Prices - Trends - Forecast 2024

What are the top Boise real estate trends this year? Perhaps more importantly, what is the Boise housing market forecast for 2024? Let’s answer these questions to help you determine whether next year is a good time to buy.

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December 15, 2021
In Hot Housing Market, Fixer-Uppers Present Opportunities — And Challenges

If you’re looking into buying a fixer-upper, then keep reading to find out what you need to know before taking the plunge.

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May 29, 2023
Reasons Why Renters Buy

There are plenty of reasons why renters might want to consider homeownership. In fact, many renters do eventually ditch their ‘renter’ status and become homeowners. What are the reasons why renters buy?

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January 30, 2024
Best Cities To Invest In Real Estate In Idaho

Looking to buy a home for investment purposes in Idaho? If so, check out this blog post to find out the best cities to invest in real estate in Idaho.

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September 21, 2023
Streamlining the Mortgage and Buying Process For the First Time Home Buyer in Idaho

Are you a first time home buyer in Idaho? If so, you’ll want to take some time to ensure that you make all the right moves. After all, you’re making a long-term financial commitment, so you want to be sure to get it right.

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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.

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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 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.

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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 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.

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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.

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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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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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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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