Buying

We’ve made it simple by using our online tools to search for a home. Unlike other brokerage websites and home buying search engines, the Agents showcased on our website are experienced, highly rated, and understand technology. Best of all, our Agents understand how to interpret the data in their local areas to give you the best advice on which homes are worth looking at and which ones are even worth moving forward on. 

Experience has taught us that it starts with listening closely to what YOU need. Together, we'll find your new address - and the features you cherish most. Whether your preference is location and style; move-in ready or handyman special; condo, house or vacant land... we know the inventory and will be ready to assist. After closing, you'll have the chance to evaluate our customer service. We've maintained a 5-Star rating and you'll benefit from our knowledge, integrity, and experience with over 10 years in the business. It is our responsibility to meet your  needs and provide the highest level of customer service. 

Why We Do Real Estate

Our Mission: We provide home buyers with an innovative real estate solution. By using the efficiencies of the Internet and local knowledge, we have streamlined the real estate process in the King and Pierce County areas.

Mission Statement: To delight our clients by bringing great people, technology, and value to the experience of buying, selling, and owning a home.

Rate and Review Us: Because we are committed to your total satisfaction, we invite you at anytime to review us on Zillow or Trulia.

How we work exclusively for YOU

1. Find the best home for your needs by sending you information on homes that match your criteria.

2. Negotiate the lowest price using our local knowledge of the market and area

3. Secure the best financing by working with your lender in keeping within your budget

4. Meet your home buying needs with the least amount of hassle. Serve as your “point person” with the seller, lender, title, inspector, and ensure all contracts are completed.

5. We are 100% committed to making sure you have a great home buying experience and  Guarantee your satisfaction

6. At each step of the way, you will benefit from our innovative consumer programs.

7. None of my services cost you a penny!

All We Ask in Return is Your Loyalty…

Typical Costs when purchasing a home in Washington

Down payment:  How much do you have set aside? There are down payment assistance programs for qualified borrowers.

Earnest Money:  In Washington 1% of the sales price is customary. It will need to be deposited into the escrow trust account and we will do that for you but we will need to collect your earnest money within 2 business of the seller accepting your offer. For example: on a $250,000 house you would give the title company $2500.  This money is credited to you at closing as a portion of your closing costs or down payment.  Earnest Money is refundable based on provisions in the purchase contract.

Inspection:  You will have typically up to 10 days to complete, but depends upon the contract. You have the option of hiring an inspector to look at the property and we have a list of inspectors you can call. Depending on how large the home is and the age the price will vary.  Most of the time, a home under 3000 sqft an inspection will run around $400 or less and will be required upfront at the time of inspection.  Mold, asbestos, and other tests need to be ordered ahead of time with the inspector.

Appraisal:  An appraisal of the property typically costs between $375 and $600. Your lender will order and obtain an impartial third-party appraisal that complies with new rules to verify that the value of the house you want will support the mortgage you need to finance it.

Closing Costs:  These costs are made up of several things such as Escrow Fees, Lender Charges, Prepaid Interest, Taxes and Insurance.  Closing costs will vary from 2% to 6% of a purchase amount depending on the time of year and the loan program you are using.  You should get a good faith estimate from your lender breaking down all costs involved with your purchase.  These costs can be paid at closing or some can be rolled into your financing. We typically ask the seller to pay for part or all of the closing costs but in some situations it is not possible or be prepared for the seller to counter the proposal.

Commissions: The seller pays!

Home Buying Step-By-Step

#1 Know Your Options: You Have Options!!!! • Pay Cash • Conventional Financing with 10% or more down • Government Backed Programs FHA/VA  3% to 3.5% down • Special Programs such as 100% USDA, State Bond, City Grants, Teacher or  Doctor Programs etc…

#2 Begin Loan Approval Process: Meet with a lender to determine how much house you can afford. Obtain pre-approval for the loan amount you need. This will improve your negotiating position with home sellers.

#3 The Home Search: Start by deciding which neighborhoods you want to live in and whether you want a new or existing home. Here is where I can help match your needs to the right house and area.

#4 Make an Offer: When you find a home, we will review market conditions and decide whether to present an aggressive or competitive offer. I will explain all documentation and ensure the terms are in your best interest. The process may go back and forth a few times between parties.

#5 Under Contract: After mutual acceptance of the contract from both parties you are ”signed around”.  At this time you’ll provide me an “earnest money” check that I will deposit to the title company to open escrow.

#6 Inspections, Repairs, Insurance, etc.: Now begins the inspection period, usually 7-10 days. Inspections are performed to ensure the property is perfect for you. Contract details such as repairs are further negotiated. During this time you’ll need to arrange insurance for your new home. Your title insurance company will provide a Commitment for Title Insurance for you to review. Also this is a time to make sure that we talk about a home warranty

#7 Go to Closing:  We have the option to do a quick walk thru before you sign your documents. When we sign your documents, you will need to bring a certified check if you’re making a down payment and picture ID and social security card or copy of it to the closing at the title company.  Possession is typically not given until after funding and recording.

Why Preapproval makes sense?

3 Key benefits of a Home Loan Pre-Approval

1.You know exactly how much home you can afford eliminating wasted time looking at homes that are under or over your price range)

2.You get the best financing (i.e. lowest interest rate, lowest down payment and lowest monthly, payment, which will allow you to get the most house for your money)

3.You can make a stronger offer (You get the power of immediate action, you can beat out other buyers, and you can negotiate the lowest price and best terms.)

It’s as Easy as 1-2-3

1. A Home Loan Credit Report is generated by the Credit Bureau

2. Your employment, bank accounts and rental payments (if applicable) are verified

3. All information is forwarded to the underwriter for approval

Property Types

If you have questions about the advantages of what types of properties are available like new construction, owner occupied, short sales or foreclosures, then check out Property Types.