Buying your first home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make — and one of the most rewarding. A starter home is typically the first step on the path to building real equity, and in Washington State there are more options to get there than most first-time buyers realize.
When I bought my first home, I ended up in a small rambler in Northeast Tacoma — FHA loan, 3.5% down, and a brutal commute to downtown Seattle. But I was so proud to own something. We only lived there about two years before appreciation gave us enough equity to move up to our next home. That’s how starter homes work — and it’s why I believe so strongly in helping first-time buyers get into the market even when it feels out of reach.
Here’s what you need to know about loan programs, down payments, credit, and how to position yourself to compete in today’s market. [Read more…]
The Existing Home Sales was released yesterday which reports on the closings of existing single-unit homes.
I have just created 
Freddie Mac HomeOne® Mortgage in Washington State
The process of getting a mortgage consists of several stages and typically takes anywhere from 30–45 days — sometimes more — depending on how prepared you are, what mortgage program you’ve selected, and if it’s a purchase, the agreed-to closing date on the purchase and sale agreement. It’s not unusual to close in two weeks for a pre-underwritten buyer, assuming the appraisal can be completed in time.
