Your Guide to Buying a Home
Everything you need to know about the home buying process in Washington State, from pre-approval to closing day.
Step 1 of 4
Get Pre-Approved
Before you start house hunting, get pre-approved for a mortgage. This tells sellers you're a serious buyer and helps you understand your budget. A pre-approval letter shows the maximum loan amount a lender is willing to offer you based on your financial situation.
- Check your credit score and fix any errors
- Gather financial documents (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)
- Compare rates from multiple lenders
- Understand the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval
Step 2 of 4
Find Your Dream Home
Contact one of our trusted Real Estate Brokers to find homes that match your criteria. Consider factors like location, school districts, commute times, and neighborhood amenities. Take your time — this is one of the biggest decisions you'll make.
- Make a list of must-haves vs nice-to-haves
- Research neighborhoods and visit at different times of day
- Attend open houses and schedule private showings
- Use our Map Search to explore listings in your preferred areas
Step 3 of 4
Make an Offer
Found the one? Your agent will help you craft a competitive offer based on market conditions, comparable sales, and the property's condition. The offer includes price, contingencies, earnest money deposit, and your preferred closing timeline.
- Research recent comparable sales in the area
- Include appropriate contingencies (inspection, financing, appraisal)
- Be prepared for counter-offers and negotiations
- Have your pre-approval letter ready to submit with the offer
Step 4 of 4
Inspection, Appraisal & Closing
After your offer is accepted, the home goes through inspection and appraisal. The inspection reveals any issues with the property, while the appraisal confirms the home's value for the lender. Once everything checks out, you'll proceed to closing day.
- Hire a qualified home inspector — don't skip this step
- Review inspection results carefully and negotiate repairs if needed
- Stay in close contact with your lender throughout the process
- Do a final walk-through before closing to confirm agreed repairs
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Let our experienced team guide you through every step of the home buying process. From pre-approval to closing, we're here for you.