Home Buyer Tips

The FHA loan program is popular among Washington home buyers seeking a low down payment and flexible qualification criteria. These government-backed loans can be used to finance a variety of property types, including multifamily homes up to four units. We've written about this program many times in the past. In this guide, we'll explain how to use an FHA loan to buy a multifamily property in Washington, such as a duplex or triplex.'

Most people who live in the Seattle area already know that local home prices run higher than the national average. But how much higher, and how does the Seattle housing market stack up in other areas? We recently used Multiple Listing Service (MLS) data and other sources to compare the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metropolitan area to the nation as a whole, in several key areas. '

Should you buy discount points when buying a home? We explain the different types of mortgage points and how they can affect your closing costs and interest over the life of your loan.'

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

Before you buy a luxury home in Seattle, you’ll want to take steps to make sure you’re not overpaying. Luckily, there are ways to move up in Seattle without adding much to your bottom line.'

Until closing, you need to avoid big purchases, opening/closing credit accounts, large cash deposits, and cosigning on other loans if you want to secure lender funding and purchase your dream home.'