Latest posts
-
Title vs. Escrow in Washington: Who Does What Before Closing
Title companies and escrow agents play different roles in a Washington home sale. Here’s who does what, the typical timeline to recording, who customarily pays, and how to avoid wire fraud.
-
How Much House Can You Afford in Pierce County?
A plain-English way to estimate your Pierce County home budget, with an example at the August 2026 median price and current rates, plus tips for move-up and first-time buyers.
-
What Is Earnest Money in Washington, and Can You Lose It?
Earnest money shows a buyer is serious and is credited at closing. Here’s who holds it in Washington, when buyers get it back, when they can lose it, and the 5% rule.
-
Washington First-Time Homebuyer Programs: What Pierce County Buyers Should Know
Washington’s first-time buyer programs pair statewide loans with down payment assistance through participating lenders. Here’s how they fit together for Pierce County buyers.
-
How Property Taxes Work in Pierce County, WA
Pierce County property taxes equal assessed value times your area’s combined levy rate. Here’s how values are set, why rates differ, key dates, and what buyers should check.
-
HOA and Condo Resale Certificates in Washington: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
A resale certificate tells buyers what they’re buying into: dues, assessments, reserves, rules, and more. Here’s what Washington law requires and how to use it.
-
What Happens If a Home Appraises Low in Washington?
When a home appraises below the contract price, the lender lends on the lower value. Here’s how Washington’s financing addendum handles it and what buyers and sellers can do.
-
Home Inspection Contingencies in Washington: What Pierce County Buyers Should Know
What does a home inspection contingency actually protect in Washington? A home inspection contingency gives buyers a defined window after mutual acceptance to inspect the property and either request repairs, ask for a price adjustment, or exit the contract if significant issues turn up. In Pierce County’s older housing stock alongside newer construction, it remains…
-
What Happens During Mutual Acceptance in a Washington Real Estate Transaction?
What happens at mutual acceptance in a Washington real estate transaction? Mutual acceptance is the moment both buyer and seller have signed and agreed to all terms of a Washington purchase and sale agreement, including any counteroffers. It’s the official start date for nearly every contingency deadline in your contract, so it matters more than…
-
How Much Are Closing Costs for Buyers in Pierce County?
How much are closing costs for buyers in Pierce County? Buyer closing costs in Pierce County typically run about 2% to 4% of the purchase price, covering lender fees, title and escrow charges, appraisal, inspection, and prepaid items like property taxes and homeowners insurance. On a $650,000 home, that’s roughly $13,000 to $26,000 beyond your…