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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
As we move into 2024, recent forecasts suggest that the Boise area real estate market could become more competitive for buyers.
Bellevue, Washington is one of the most popular real estate markets in the Seattle area. And if you currently live there, or have visited in the past, you probably already know why. It has low crime rates, great schools, cultural and recreational opportunities, and plenty of natural splendor. It’s also one of the most expensive real estate markets in the state of Washington, and for all of the same reasons mentioned above. So you definitely want to do some research before entering this housing market.
Last year, we heard a lot about real estate markets cooling down all across the country. But now, as we head further into 2024, the Seattle-area housing market appears to be revving up again.
The Portland, OR real estate market experienced a drop in inventory over recent years. Inventory in the Portland area still remains low, though local real estate experts believe we could see a shift in this trend.
The rest of 2024 could be a great time to sell a home in the Seattle metro area, all the way into the winter months. There are several reasons for this, and we will cover the mall throughout this article. Here’s the short version. Steady demand and a dearth of inventory have created ideal conditions for home sellers in Seattle and other metro areas across the U.S. This has been the story for some time, and a new report suggested that these conditions could persist for the foreseeable future.
A recent report from the government-sponsored mortgage buyer Freddie Mac brought good news for home buyers across Washington. Mortgage rates continued to trend downward last week, after climbing to a 15-year peak toward the end of last year.
This downward trend could help improve affordability for home buyers in cities throughout Washington State. Here’s what you need to know about these recent mortgage rate trends, and how they might affect you when buying a home later this year.
The real estate market in Portland, Oregon has experienced a lot of interesting trends and developments over the past few years. So we thought it might be helpful to provide a 2024 roundup of the latest home price trends for the Portland, Oregon metro area.
Is 2024 a good time to buy a home in Tacoma, Washington? It sure is looking that way. Tacoma home buyers actually have a lot going for them these days, as explained below. The biggest benefits for buyers in 2023 include more inventory, more negotiating leverage, and an overall slower pace within the real estate market.
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.
Get a sneak peek at the 2023 housing market with our new forecast infographic. Find out how home price appreciation, mortgage rates, and home sales are expected to change in the coming year.
Are you planning to relocate to the Seattle metro area in the near future? Wondering what the local real estate market is like, and what it takes to buy a home? You’re in the right place.
As we explained in a recent blog post, the real estate market in Portland, Oregon has undergone quite a few changes. And it looks like that could continue into 2024 as well.
Recent forecasts and predictions for the Portland-area housing market suggest that things could be very different next year, compared to what we’ve become used to.
The biggest change has to do with the overall pace of the real estate scene.
Numerous reports have shown that the real estate market is cooling down, and that sellers are going the extra mile to attract offers. Among other things, this means they’ll probably be more willing to accept offers with government-backed mortgage loans, such as FHA and VA.
Recent forecasts for the Boise, Idaho housing market in 2024 suggest the market could look very different next year. After more than 18 months of overheated home-buying activity and record-setting price growth, the Boise real estate market might finally settle down.
Seattle Housing Market Inventory Decreased Year-Over-Year! Here’s what you need to know about housing market inventory growth in the Seattle area.
As of early 2024, the average down payment for a median-priced home in the Portland, Oregon metro area was around $63,368.
The big question is, what’s the best type of mortgage loan for a home buyer in the Seattle area? FHA, VA or conventional?
Here are 3 reasons why late 2022 and 2023 could be a good time to buy a home in the Boise area.
Is Seattle a Buyer’s Market in 2024? The Seattle metro area housing market is clearly moving in a more buyer-friendly direction. Keep reading to learn more!
Trying to decide if you should rent a house or buy your own home? Learn about all of the benefits home-ownership has to offer over renting, and why you should buy a home now to maximize your return on investment.
It’s fortunate that more home listings are coming onto the market, according to the latest housing data available. This can make it easier for homeowners looking to sell to do so with confidence they can soon move into a new home.
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.
Prospective homebuyers need to be prepared when entering Seattle’s real estate market. Having the right lender and a loan as far along the approval process as possible can be critical to beating out competition with cash offers on the table in most scenarios.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
The state of Washington currently ranks #7 in the nation when it comes to the total number of military personnel living in the state. Because of this, plenty of folks could benefit from using a VA loan to buy a house. But there are specific steps you’ll need to take to get the ball rolling. In this article, you’ll learn how to apply for a VA home loan in the state of Washington.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
The Portland, OR real estate market experienced a drop in inventory over recent years. Inventory in the Portland area still remains low, though local real estate experts believe we could see a shift in this trend.
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.
The rest of 2024 could be a great time to sell a home in the Seattle metro area, all the way into the winter months. There are several reasons for this, and we will cover the mall throughout this article. Here’s the short version. Steady demand and a dearth of inventory have created ideal conditions for home sellers in Seattle and other metro areas across the U.S. This has been the story for some time, and a new report suggested that these conditions could persist for the foreseeable future.
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.
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!
When you make an offer on a house in Washington, you have the option to include certain items within your purchase agreement. This is an important step in the home buying process, because it could determine whether or not the seller accepts your offer — and at what price. Today, we will explore the common parts of the purchase agreement, and some of the things you might choose to include when making an offer.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
The state of Washington currently ranks #7 in the nation when it comes to the total number of military personnel living in the state. Because of this, plenty of folks could benefit from using a VA loan to buy a house. But there are specific steps you’ll need to take to get the ball rolling. In this article, you’ll learn how to apply for a VA home loan in the state of Washington.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The current inventory shortage probably won’t abate anytime soon. But even so, home buyers within the Seattle real estate market could soon benefit from seasonal trends, increasing their chances for success. The real estate market typically slows down in the fall months, and especially during winter. This might be a great time to buy a home in the Seattle area, because there will probably be fewer buyers in the market.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
From a buyer’s perspective, the best-case scenario is to buy a home at the so-called “bottom” of the real estate market. This occurs when house values fall to their lowest point during a downturn, after which they rise for a long period of time.
As of early 2024, inventory levels within the Seattle metro area real estate market continue to be very low, though may slowly change in 2024.
We’ve written about the down payment requirements for different types of mortgage loans in the past, along with the average down payment size across Washington State. But those numbers might not apply to your particular situation. As a home buyer, you’ll want to determine the best down payment amount for yourself, based on your budget and long-term goals. So let’s talk about how you might actually do that.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Bellevue, Washington is one of the most popular real estate markets in the Seattle area. And if you currently live there, or have visited in the past, you probably already know why. It has low crime rates, great schools, cultural and recreational opportunities, and plenty of natural splendor. It’s also one of the most expensive real estate markets in the state of Washington, and for all of the same reasons mentioned above. So you definitely want to do some research before entering this housing market.
Last year, we heard a lot about real estate markets cooling down all across the country. But now, as we head further into 2024, the Seattle-area housing market appears to be revving up again.
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.
The Portland, OR real estate market experienced a drop in inventory over recent years. Inventory in the Portland area still remains low, though local real estate experts believe we could see a shift in this trend.
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.
When buying a home in the Seattle area, you’ll also want to spend some time researching the surrounding neighborhood and community. After all, when you purchase a house, you’re also buying into the neighborhood. So you want to make sure it’s a good fit for your lifestyle.
Seattle’s booming housing market and desirable location make it an attractive option for real estate investments. But with so many factors to consider, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. In this article, we’ll walk through the steps for evaluating the investment potential of a home in Seattle. This kind of research and due diligence can help you make an informed purchasing decision.
Mortgage rates have declined a bit since hitting a 20-year peak back in November 2022. And a recent forecast suggested they might have further to fall, throughout the rest of 2023. Such a trend could help increase affordability for home buyers across the state of Washington. Here’s an analysis of the latest mortgage rate trends and forecasts, and what they might mean for Washington home buyers in 2023.
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.
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
Your family home is special to you, and you’ve made many memories. How about keeping those memories going for the next generation? It’s possible when you’re buying your parent’s home.
As a Seattle-area mortgage company, we often assist home buyers in nearby Bellevue, Washington. So we thought it was long overdue to share some of the benefits of buying a home (and living in) Bellevue, Washington.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
The state of Washington currently ranks #7 in the nation when it comes to the total number of military personnel living in the state. Because of this, plenty of folks could benefit from using a VA loan to buy a house. But there are specific steps you’ll need to take to get the ball rolling. In this article, you’ll learn how to apply for a VA home loan in the state of Washington.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The current inventory shortage probably won’t abate anytime soon. But even so, home buyers within the Seattle real estate market could soon benefit from seasonal trends, increasing their chances for success. The real estate market typically slows down in the fall months, and especially during winter. This might be a great time to buy a home in the Seattle area, because there will probably be fewer buyers in the market.
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.
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.
Private mortgage insurance can be a confusing subject for first-time home buyers. And a lack of knowledge opens the door to misconceptions and misunderstanding. Today, we will address some of the most common “myths” and misconceptions about private mortgage insurance in the state of 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.
Seattle home buyers tend to have a lot of questions about their mortgage financing options, including the maximum amount they can borrow. This article will discuss the influencing factors.
From a buyer’s perspective, the best-case scenario is to buy a home at the so-called “bottom” of the real estate market. This occurs when house values fall to their lowest point during a downturn, after which they rise for a long period of time.
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.
As of early 2024, inventory levels within the Seattle metro area real estate market continue to be very low, though may slowly change in 2024.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
The state of Washington currently ranks #7 in the nation when it comes to the total number of military personnel living in the state. Because of this, plenty of folks could benefit from using a VA loan to buy a house. But there are specific steps you’ll need to take to get the ball rolling. In this article, you’ll learn how to apply for a VA home loan in the state of Washington.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
The state of Washington currently ranks #7 in the nation when it comes to the total number of military personnel living in the state. Because of this, plenty of folks could benefit from using a VA loan to buy a house. But there are specific steps you’ll need to take to get the ball rolling. In this article, you’ll learn how to apply for a VA home loan in the state of Washington.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
There are several critical stages along the path to VA loan approval and closing. Mortgage underwriting is one of these critical stages. In this guide, we will walk through the different steps in the VA loan underwriting process and explain what borrowers can do to help keep that process on track.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
The state of Washington currently ranks #7 in the nation when it comes to the total number of military personnel living in the state. Because of this, plenty of folks could benefit from using a VA loan to buy a house. But there are specific steps you’ll need to take to get the ball rolling. In this article, you’ll learn how to apply for a VA home loan in the state of Washington.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
The state of Washington currently ranks #7 in the nation when it comes to the total number of military personnel living in the state. Because of this, plenty of folks could benefit from using a VA loan to buy a house. But there are specific steps you’ll need to take to get the ball rolling. In this article, you’ll learn how to apply for a VA home loan in the state of Washington.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
There are several critical stages along the path to VA loan approval and closing. Mortgage underwriting is one of these critical stages. In this guide, we will walk through the different steps in the VA loan underwriting process and explain what borrowers can do to help keep that process on track.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
The state of Washington currently ranks #7 in the nation when it comes to the total number of military personnel living in the state. Because of this, plenty of folks could benefit from using a VA loan to buy a house. But there are specific steps you’ll need to take to get the ball rolling. In this article, you’ll learn how to apply for a VA home loan in the state of Washington.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Whether you’re buying a home or ready to refinance, our professionals can help.
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