The first thing to do would be to connect with a Realtor, regardless of whether or not that Realtor is me.

They’ll likely know of trusted lender options, that operate ethically, that are savvy in the lending industry, and who can help you become pre-approved.

I’m happy to have a phone call and discuss what this means, but this discussion (with me and also with a lender) are completely free. There’s no cost or catch at the end of our discussion, and I’ll be sure to leave you with information to get you pointed in the right direction.

Another option is to complete an online approval online or at your local bank or credit union, although I’d prefer to give you a heads up regarding what this might mean for you, first.

This is an important step and a longer conversation. Feel free to call, text, or email me anytime.

I work primarily within King, Pierce, and Snohomish County.

However, I’ve assisted multiple clients in other counties, such as Lewis, Island, Thurston, Clallam, Mason, and Jefferson.

Regarding my specific work radius, this will depend on my work load and current client list. Please feel free to reach out. If I’m unable to assist at that time, I can certainly point you in the direction of another professional.

Yes. I do work with sellers and buyers for residential real estate purchases and sales.

If needing help with commercial transactions, I’m happy to offer connections to another professional.

Commercial isn’t something I’ve focused on within my career and I’d rather pass on the business than stumble through a transaction and give subpar guidance. I’d be happy to help but I know where my area of expertise is, and where it isn’t.

Consultations are free of charge, and I don’t expect sellers or buyers to enter into any agreements immediately after the call (or Zoom call).

Per WA State requirements, buyers do have to enter into a Buyer Brokerage Services Agreement eventually. This is required by any buyer, and any firm, Realtor/Agent - this is not the decision of the firm or Realtor themselves.

This new(ish) law and business requirement started January 1st, 2024. Details around what this entails will be provided before decisions are made.

Consultations are meant to educate sellers and buyers about what truly matters… things to consider before jumping in.

Sure, most agents will know and cover the basics but the smaller details and proactive thinking and planning are what creates a smoother, safer process.

This depends on YOUR specific details, the current market movement, the total of all owed amounts, and several other factors that play a big role in what a seller walks away with.

Everyone (including agents, for fun) look at Redfin, Zillow, Tax Assessor estimates, and other online calculators. However, these are commonly incorrect.

Sometimes they can be somewhat accurate, while others times they’ve missed the mark by hundreds-of-thousands.

If trusting this as a main source and not factoring in other details that buyers in the current market will, this can leave you with a worse strategy from the start.

There’s a lot of emotions throughout the process of buying and selling… a lot of worries, excitement, and deep consideration. It’s important to think of a buyer’s mindset when preparing a strategy for selling your property. This will help put you in the best position to walk away with the highest net in the current market.

This will depend a lot on the price point that you’re purchasing at, and lender requirements for your down payment.

Requirements will vary, depending on the loan type, lender, the type of property you’re wanting to purchase, you financial situation, job type, etc..

Some loan types allow you to put down as little as 3%-3.5%. If using a VA loan, you can also do 0% down (with some closing costs).

There can be some great programs for buyers with little money saved. However, I personally don’t recommend stretching your limits too much.

Asking your questions and starting a conversation does not obligate you to move forward with anything. It doesn’t cost money and no contracts would need to be signed if exploring the idea of selling or buying. Feel free to reach out with any questions, big or small.

Realtors do not see the specific details of a buyer’s finances. We’re not provided with credit scores, account statements, details of a buyer’s debt, etc..

When filling out your loan application online with a lender, that information is provided to the Loan Officer, not an agent.

While filling out the application, it’s important to keep answers as truthful and accurate as possible. If providing exaggerated income amounts, or lessening the true amount of debt a buyer has, this will come forward later on. It’s best to be honest and see where you stand, that way if improvements are needed, the Loan Officer can help create the best and quickest plan for your goals and personal abilities.

I’m not sure.

Some people should rent, and some are ready to become a homeowner.

Owning a home is very different than renting, and the responsibilities aren’t small.

Like everything, there are pros and cons. I’m happy to chat with you in more detail about the specifics, since purchasing a home may not be the best thing for you to do, depending on your situation, future plans, and what you’re willing to take on.

Depending on those factors, certain types of housing may be a better game plan. For example, condo living may not be recommended. We’d discuss the ins and outs, helping you see your options and thoughts to consider.

Markets change QUICKLY - faster than most people are aware of.

The news/social media is typically late, and the buyer pool’s mentality can shift over the course of a week. Real estate can also be seasonal (and regional).

It’s best to contact a Realtor and/or lender as you’re more seriously considering a purchase/sale, as today’s information can be completely different than weeks from now.

This has a similar answer to the other question, above.

You can use general online calculators or tools to have a rough idea of rates, although this does not mean that your rate will be the same, better, or worse.

Credit score, the type of loan used (or that you qualify for), and multiple other factors are used to provide you with your rate estimate (at that specific time).

If trusting online calculators, be cautious about betting on those being 100% accurate - take it with a grain of salt.

The best resource would be to become pre-approved with a reputable lender, which doesn’t cost you any money. If you’d like to take it a step further you can become pre-underwritten as well. This is discussed less often but it’s good practice if your lender (or bank, credit union, etc.) allow it.

Feel free to send me a text, call or email and I’m happy to provide more details on this.