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Why Staging Your Home Can Make a Huge Difference
When it comes to selling your home, a great first impression is everything. That’s where staging comes in. Even partially staging your home can lead to more favorable outcomes. Read on to find out why this step in the selling process can be so beneficial.
Enhanced Visual Appeal
The majority of home buyers first look at homes online when starting their search. While professional photography is part of that equation, so is the way your home is displayed. Staging optimizes your home’s appearance by decluttering, depersonalizing, and carefully arranging items and furniture to create a visually appealing space. It also creates a welcoming environment for potential homebuyers, allowing them to easily imagine living in your home. In a 2023 study, 81% of buyers’ agents stated that staging a home made it easier for their clients to see a property as their future home. Furthermore, when a home is staged, each room’s best features are strategically highlighted, making the strongest possible first impression. You want to showcase a move-in-ready appearance and create intentional spaces that evoke positive emotions.
More Favorable Outcomes
Staged homes tend to sell for more and in less time than homes that are not either partially or fully staged. According to the National Association of Realtors® 2025 Profile of Home Staging, 49% of sellers’ agents stated that home staging reduced the time homes spent on the market. Additionally, staged homes typically receive a 1% to 10% increase in the dollar value offered.
If you’re thinking of partially staging your home, that same NAR report found that the most commonly staged rooms were:
- living room (91%)
- primary bedroom (83%)
- dining room (69%)
- kitchen (68%)
Which rooms were most important to buyers to be staged? The results were:
- living room (37%)
- primary bedroom (34%)
- kitchen (23%)
Expertly Showcasing Your Home’s Value
Staging Can Save You Money in the Long Run
Staging is an upfront investment. According to Home Advisor, the normal range for staging a home in Washington is $1,481 – $2,708. What factors into this cost? It includes professional staging fees, cleaning, repairs, the size of the home, and furnishings.
While this may seem like quite the price tag, it may help you in the long run if it sells faster because you’ll reduce the carrying costs associated with owning that home (mortgage payments, utilities, etc.). Staging can also help you avoid the need for price reductions.
Additional Info
For more information about how to successfully sell your home, check out our digital flipbook below. If you have any questions, reach out to one of our highly rated real estate agents at Windermere Silverdale.
4 Important Benefits of Working with a Local Lender
The home-buying process involves many decisions. One of them is choosing a mortgage lender. Some people may think all lenders are pretty much the same, but that’s not the case. You want to work with a trusted professional. Working with a local lender can significantly increase your chances of success. Read on to find out how.
1. Personalized Experience
Before exploring neighborhoods and open houses, you need to get pre-approved for a loan. While there are many options, including your current bank and various online providers, it’s hard to beat the personalized service of a great local lender. Buying a home is most likely the biggest purchase you will ever make. Whether you’re a first-time or third-time home buyer, feeling comfortable asking questions is important. Using a local lender gives you easy access to people who can answer your questions in person or on the phone. This is extra helpful if you have a unique or complex situation that requires a more nuanced and hands-on approach.
2. Great Track Record
Typically, local lenders live in the community and are dedicated to and enthusiastic about the area they serve. Since they’re a local resident, client feedback and their reputation is important to them. Do your research and choose a lender with a proven track record. Help your offer stand out by having a lender with a well-earned reputation for being responsive and getting loans closed on time. And remember, local lenders have a vested interest in making sure each loan closes smoothly and efficiently. They know that you may be bumping into them at the grocery store or chatting about your experience with neighbors.
3. Trusted Reputation
Overall, local lenders appeal to sellers and real estate agents because they have better reputations for closing on time. This can be especially important if you’re trying to win in a multiple offer situation. Sometimes sellers or agents have had bad past experiences with national banks or online lenders. If you have a trusted local lender, this could be the one thing that tips the scales in your favor. At Windermere, we’re proud to partner with Generations Home Loans.
“Generations Home Loans works hard to offer the best local financing options to Windermere clients,” explains Cherie Kesti, Generations Home Loans Mortgage Advisor. “The reputation of Generations as a local lender is instrumental in helping the Real Estate Brokers and their clients gain a sense of confidence that their transaction is going to close on time, with the best financing options available. I’ve known sellers who picked a Generations-approved buyer amongst other offers because they had a past positive experience with Generations and knew their transaction would close as agreed.”
4. Community Knowledge
Local lenders have a deep understanding of the community and the local housing market. This makes them a valuable asset. They have personal connections with everyone involved in the home buying process including real estate agents, appraisers, and underwriters. A local lender can serve as another knowledgeable guide.
For more information on the important benefits of working with a local lender, contact an experienced Windermere Real Estate Agent.
What to Know Before Moving to Central or South Kitsap County
If you’re looking to move somewhere with a little bit of everything: city amenities, suburban neighborhoods, beaches, forests, and even acres of land for sale, look no further than Central or South Kitsap County. This area includes Silverdale, Bremerton, and Port Orchard.
Windermere real estate agent Rebecca Johnson summarizes it perfectly, “Once you arrive in Kitsap County, you’ll never want to leave! From fantastic restaurants and small businesses to state-of-the-art medical care, top-notch beaches, and hiking, everything you need is within a 30-minute drive!”
Kitsap County is a large geographic area in Western Washington that borders Puget Sound. Due to the expansive area, portions of the county are referred to as North, Central, or South Kitsap. We’ve compiled some helpful information focusing on what Central and South Kitsap provide.
The real estate market is strong and varied
In Central and South Kitsap County, you’ll find many single-family homes for sale, as well as condos, waterfront properties, manufactured homes, and more. There are also many new builds, and we’ve seen a steady increase in people moving here from the Seattle area. Our Windermere Silverdale office has a team of experts ready to help you navigate the market. As the spring market heats up, we expect to see more multiple offer situations. So, if you’re thinking of buying this spring or summer, we recommend speaking to a local Realtor right away. Because our area has a range of properties, you want to work with someone who knows our market well, and can speak to the history and nuances of certain neighborhoods.
The cost of living is lower
The cost of living in Central or South Kitsap County is generally more affordable than surrounding areas. Check out the most recent quarterly market data to learn about home sales in Kitsap County. Also, while the property tax rate for Port Orchard, Bremerton and Silverdale vary by city, they all have rates at or below the state’s median property tax rate of 0.88%.
Enjoy the ferries to Seattle
There is a ferry to Seattle from Bremerton and the crossing time is 60 minutes. Another option is the Kitsap Fast Ferry. This is a passenger-only ferry (vs. the large WA State Ferries, which you can drive onto). The Fast Ferry gets Bremerton commuters to Seattle in 30 minutes or less. Additionally, the Port Orchard Fast Ferry takes passengers to Bremerton in 12 minutes.
Be sure to check all ferry schedules for updates. You can download the WSDOT app (or follow them on social media). Additionally, you can subscribe to Fast Ferry alerts. Ferries can be impacted by weather, maintenance, and unforeseen circumstances so it’s important to stay in the loop if you plan on using them to get to work.
We have a strong military presence
Naval Base Kitsap greatly contributes to our community’s military presence. Encompassing over 12,000 acres across the Kitsap Peninsula between two sites, it houses the country’s third largest fleet concentration. Their presence means there is a strong civilian and military workforce, as well as military-related resources.
If you or your spouse are in the military and are going to be stationed here soon, check out our Military Resources page. You’ll find everything from in-depth school information to VA loan resources.
We have many great schools
Central Kitsap School District primarily serves students and families in Silverdale and portions of Bremerton. South Kitsap School District primarily serves students in Port Orchard, as well as some portions of Bremerton. Both school districts serve students from elementary to high school and offer a wide variety of services.
There are also private school options in all three cities, as well as different preschools and daycares.
There are many fun things to do here
Compared to North Kitsap County, Central and South Kitsap County tend to have a more active nightlife. These areas are also relatively close to other towns such as Gig Harbor and Tacoma, and the ferry makes Seattle just a boat-ride away from big concerts, Seahawks games, and more. We have big box stores like Costco, Trader Joe’s, and Target. There are also large shopping centers with well-known retailers in the Kitsap Mall and The Trails at Silverdale.
Bremerton and Port Orchard also have downtown waterfronts to explore. The Port Orchard waterfront has restaurants, playgrounds, and small shops. They also host a series of annual events downtown, such as the upcoming Ladies Night Out on April 25th.
Downtown Bremerton and its waterfront is also expanding. The city has a strong arts scene, with special event venues like the Admiral Theatre and the Roxy Theatre. There is also a wealth of information on the city’s website to explore local activities, including an events calendar. The annual Blackberry Festival is a huge event every summer that attracts locals and visitors alike.
Windermere Broker/Realtor Mark Plastina has lived here since he was fourteen and raves about the proximity to different activities. “The location is centralized to anything I need…If I feel the need for a relaxing afternoon, I go to Poulsbo. If I feel that need to see friends and play softball, I go to west Bremerton or Port Orchard. It doesn’t take a lot of time to get to places.”
Outdoor activities are endless
No matter which part of Kitsap County you are in, you are able to do all kinds of outdoor activities. Popular hiking trails include the Illahee Preserve and Dickerson Creek Falls in Bremerton. Banner Forest Heritage Park in Port Orchard is also wonderful and Clear Creek Trail in Silverdale offers over 7 miles of trails – a beautiful break from the city.
Golfers can enjoy places like Gold Mountain Golf Club in Bremerton or Trophy Lake Golf & Casting in Port Orchard. Mountain bikers and horseback riders can share the trails at Ueland Tree Farm and Newberry Hill Heritage Park. The opportunities are truly endless.
If you prefer to be on the water, grab a kayak or paddle board and follow the Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trails map for scenic views. There are also local boat rentals out of the Bremerton and Port Orchard marinas for sightseeing or fishing. Additionally, we have local lakes scattered around Central and South Kitsap that are good for fishing, swimming or picnicking in the summertime.
If you’re looking for an overall lower cost of living while still staying near big-city amenities, then Port Orchard, Bremerton and Silverdale are great options. Though we may be biased, we invite you to explore our area. We think you’ll discover it’s an incredible place to live.
New Agent Spotlight: Nate Wallen
Proud of his Kitsap roots, Nate Wallen grew up here and offers his clients local expertise and a strong resource network. He’s highly involved in the community and has a background in operations management. Learn about Nate’s approach to real estate, his hobbies, and more in our Q&A below.
What drew you to real estate?
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I serve the entire peninsula and Tacoma.
How long have you lived here?
Silverdale born and raised. I left town for college and to play baseball. I graduated in 2011 from Central Washington University and hung up my cleats. Feeling homesick, I moved back to Kitsap County and started coaching baseball. This truly is an amazing community to grow up in and exactly where I wanted to start my family.
How are you involved in the community?
I have been the Assistant Varsity HS Baseball Coach at Central Kitsap for the past 5 years, and I coached at Kingston and Bremerton High School before that. When the opportunity to coach at my alma mater came, I couldn’t pass it up. My wife and I are also active community members of the West Sound Disc Golf Association, where we maintain all the local courses and help run fundraising and tournament events. We also have three children (2 boys and a girl), and they play ALL the sports.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
Nancy Mackleit and the new agent program offered here are unmatched for beginning agents. Also, my mother worked at Windermere for years and had an incredible experience.
If you want to learn more about Nate Wallen, check out his website. We know he will continue to provide excellent service to his clients.
New Agent Spotlight: Nolan Reynolds
With a background in real estate videography, home remodeling, and real estate investment, Nolan Reynolds offers home buyers and sellers a wealth of information. He’s also lived in Kitsap County for decades. Nolan recently joined Windermere Silverdale, and we’re so glad he’s on our team. Read on to find out about his background, interests, and more.
What drew you to real estate?
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I serve Kitsap County, Mason County, and the greater Tacoma area. I love the natural beauty we have here. In particular, I think our little corner of the Pacific Northwest is even more beautiful because we have so many incredible mountain and shoreline views.
How are you involved in the community?
Through my video business over the past 10+ years, I have gotten to work with all kinds of great organizations in the community, including North Mason Regional Fire Authority, Boys & Girls Clubs of South Puget Sound, Kitsap Strong.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
I appreciated all of the in-depth training that we receive at Windermere. Multiple days each week we get to sit with our managing broker and dive into all of the real estate paperwork possibilities. Although it can sometimes be challenging, I value the opportunity to learn as much as possible so that I can be as valuable as possible to my clients.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
In addition to real estate, photography, and videography, I enjoy traveling to new places. My wife and I recently went to Turkey. My best bud got married in Istanbul, where his wife is from. We were lucky to have the chance to attend the wedding and spend a few weeks in Turkey. The night before their wedding, her family had us over for a traditional homemade Turkish dinner. It was a really special experience to have them take us all into their home and make us an incredible meal. The picture below is from that night.
If you want to learn more about Nolan Reynolds, you can check out his website, which contains more info about him and helpful local resources. Watch his interesting local videos (from the beautiful to the funny) on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Delicious New Places to Try in Central & South Kitsap
Whether you’re a longtime local or a recent Kitsap transplant, keeping track of the local restaurant scene can be hard. Here are some new and expanded restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops in Central and South Kitsap that we hope you’ll check out. We also included some tasty recommendations. With so many great locally-owned places to choose from, this list is definitely just a start.
Lives Up to the Hype
There has been quite a buzz surrounding Restaurant Lola since it opened in Bremerton last fall, and for good reason. Chef John Hall creates a memorable dining experience with locally sourced ingredients, craft cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, the owners recently announced a catering offering.
The Windermere team recommends making a reservation here for your next special occasion! Their menu often changes, but check out their sample menu. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.
Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Brunch: Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Great Burritos & Much More
The Daily Reggae Cafe & Lounge, located in the heart of the Charleston Business District on Callow Avenue in Bremerton, is already known for its burritos. It also offers a variety of fruit and salad bowls, avocado toast, waffles, sandwiches, and a full coffee bar. Aside from its regular hours, it has a range of special events, including live music and crafts classes, which can be found on its Facebook page. Vegan and gluten-free options are available.
The Windermere team recommends their Greek Breakfast Burrito or Waffle Mania
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM + Special Events (as posted on Facebook)
New Owners, Same Splendid Sweets
Sugar Studios Cafe in Old Town Silverdale recently reopened under new ownership. Great news for previous customers: they are bringing back their beloved crepes. Even better news: their new menu includes bubble teas as well as poke bowls. We are excited to watch them roll out all of their new offerings. Considered a sister location to Bubz Cafe in Bremerton, these folks are on track to be boba pros.
The Windermere team recommends crepes, of course, plus new items as they are added.
Hours: Thursday – Sunday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (subject to change after the soft-opening phase)
Cute & Creative Coffee Drive-thru
Candyland Cafe is not your average coffee drive-thru. Located off Silverdale Way near the turn for Island Lake Park, this adorable spot is just as sweet as it looks. Decked out in bright pastel colors, you’ll find decadent flavor combinations like Chocolate Chip Cookie White Coffee, Fruity Pebbles Matcha, and Pink Flamingo Redbull, just to name a few. You will also find all of the usual coffee staples as well as breakfast sandwiches, burritos, and muffins.
The Windermere team recommends adding their soft-top cream to your favorite coffee – so good!
Hours: Monday – Friday, 5:30 AM – 5:30 PM; Saturday, 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM; Sunday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Excellent Expansions & New Locations in South Kitsap
Khao Soi Thai recently opened a second location on Bay Street in Port Orchard. A local favorite in Manette, this second location features a much larger seating area. Serving a variety of noodle dishes and curries as well as appetizers and soups, be sure to visit the next time you’re in Bremerton or Port Orchard. Vegetarian/vegan and gluten-free options are available.
The Windermere team recommends Pad See Ew and Thai Iced Tea.
Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Peninsula BrewHouse is the expansion of Peninsula BevCo. This Silverdale Waterfront restaurant and brewery has an expansive tap list and signature craft cocktails. Their menu offerings include unique twists on classics like tacos, pizzas, and burgers. Vegetarian/vegan options and gluten-free options are available.
The Windermere team recommends Bahn Mi Tacos, Sweet Potato Tots, and the Blackberry Bramble cocktail.
Hours: Tuesday – Thursday, 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Friday – Saturday, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
At its original location, Ristretto Stone became known for its coffee flight offerings. With its recent move to Wheaton Way, it has expanded its menu from beverages and snacks only to include daily fresh-baked goods, sandwiches, and in-house coffee roasting. A coffee flight is a perfect option for a social outing, and flavor options change monthly.
The Windermere team recommends the French Toast Sandwich & the Weekly Coffee Special
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM
New Agent Spotlight: Nicole Quinene
A veteran, longtime Kitsap local, and specialty contractor, Nicole Quinene possesses the skills and knowledge to empower homebuyers and sellers. She recently joined Windermere Silverdale, and we’re so happy to have her. Learn about her background, interests, and more in our Q&A.
What drew you to real estate?
My interest in real estate is multi-layered, encompassing both a goal of learning about property management and my genuine desire to educate individuals on the power of real estate investment. My journey began with a focus on property management. However, I felt it was crucial to explore real estate sales to find out if my true passion lay in home sales and education, before fully committing to property management. The more time I spend in the world of real estate, the more I realize my passion is to educate homebuyers and help them unlock the full potential of property ownership. That emerged as the primary focus of my interests. Additionally, my fascination and background with homes in need of remodeling have sparked an interest in the potential investment opportunities they offer.
My motivation as a broker is driven by a profound desire to empower individuals to invest in their future through real estate. I am motivated by a strong sense of purpose to support individuals who may not have had adequate access to information about property ownership and investment. Additionally, I fully recognize the potential investment opportunities presented by homes in need of remodeling, seeing them as not only a chance to revitalize properties but also to unlock their full financial potential for buyers.
My aspiration is to be an advocate for education, to share invaluable insights, and to shape perceptions surrounding home ownership and its profound impact on individuals’ futures.
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
As someone new to the real estate industry, my background as a specialty contractor equips me with a unique set of skills and insights that I believe will enhance my effectiveness as a realtor. This experience enables me to guide clients through properties, identifying potential opportunities for improvement along the way. Drawing from my problem-solving skills, honed through navigating unforeseen challenges at job sites, I am confident in my ability to address any issues that may arise during real estate transactions, finding creative solutions to ensure a positive outcome.
Furthermore, my experience in customer service, cultivated through direct interactions with clients, allows me to build strong relationships and communicate effectively. I believe these skills will contribute significantly to my ability to provide exceptional service throughout the home buying or selling process.
Overall, I am optimistic that my background as a specialty contractor will enrich my abilities as a realtor, offering valuable skills, knowledge, and perspectives that will contribute to my success in the industry.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
As a new real estate agent, I believe certain personality traits are crucial for my success in this profession. Firstly, emotional awareness and understanding are vital. Being empathetic and attentive to clients’ emotions helps build trust and address their needs effectively. Effective problem-solving skills are also key, enabling me to navigate challenges and find creative solutions to meet clients’ goals. Additionally, resilience is essential for overcoming setbacks and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of rejection and adversity. Adaptability is another critical trait I believe to be important, allowing me to adjust to new situations and remain flexible in a constantly changing environment. I believe as a real estate agent having perseverance is fundamental in having determination in pursuing goals, even in the face of challenges. Lastly, my curiosity drives continuous learning and growth, motivating me to seek out new experiences and expand my knowledge.
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I primarily serve Kitsap County, focusing specifically on the communities of Bremerton, Silverdale, and Port Orchard, which offer immense potential for investment. These areas boast a dynamic mix of urban amenities and scenic landscapes, with the natural beauty of Puget Sound alongside easy access to the vibrant city life of Seattle, and close proximity to Pierce County.
Kitsap County provides a diverse range of housing options, catering to various preferences and lifestyles, appealing to both homebuyers and investors. In particular, Bremerton, Silverdale, and Port Orchard are prime locations with ample opportunities for development and remodeling projects, offering exceptional investment potential.
How long have you lived here and what brought you here?
In 2000, my family moved from Guam to Bremerton when I was starting high school because of my father’s job transfer. I spent several years away from Washington while serving in the Air Force as a medical technician, and I returned to Washington because much of my immediate family still resided here.
How are you involved in the community?
My husband and I own a small business that primarily services the Kitsap County area. Additionally, I find fulfillment in giving back through volunteer work at our church, where I dedicate my time to caring for children in the nursery and toddler classroom. I recently enrolled with my oldest daughter in a Chamorro cultural dance class located in Tacoma, which offered a wonderful opportunity to immerse ourselves in our heritage and connect with others in the community.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
When considering which real estate agency to align myself with, my decision to work with Windermere was clear from the start. Despite not having personal experience with Windermere, I was aware of its highly professional reputation. It was important to me to align myself with a company that has a strong presence and established roots within the community. Windermere’s longstanding reputation and commitment to excellence made it the obvious choice for me. I wanted to immerse myself in an environment where I could learn from experienced professionals and contribute to a brokerage that is truly part of the community it serves.
If you’re interested in learning more about Nicole Quinene, you can check out her website, which contains local resources and helpful real estate tips. You can also follow her on Facebook or connect with her on Instagram.
Welcome to the Windermere family, Nicole!
Buy Before You Sell with a Bridge Loan
If you’re thinking of selling your current home in order to buy a new one, you may be feeling overwhelmed. Selling a home poses numerous challenges, and buying a home in a desirable market such as ours can be a rollercoaster. A bridge loan can be a useful solution. Let’s explore this further.
Bridge Loan Basics
A bridge loan is a short-term financial solution that enables homebuyers to access a portion of the equity in their current property. For many homeowners, this involves using the equity from their existing home as a down payment for a new one, thereby enhancing their immediate cash flow. Bridge loans, similar to home equity loans, are secured with their current home as collateral.
Due to their higher risk, certain criteria must be met to qualify for a bridge loan. Lenders typically seek a low debt-to-income ratio, a positive credit history, and substantial equity in your current residence. Consequently, some homeowners may find it challenging to meet the requirements for a bridge loan.
Benefits of the Windermere Bridge Loan
We offer our clients an exclusive bridge loan program. The Windermere Bridge Loan uses the equity from your current home so you can make a non-contingent offer on a new one. When determining the bridge loan, Windermere looks at the amount you owe on your home in addition to the bridge loan. When combined, these two loans cannot total more than 75% of the value of your current home.
The Windermere Bridge Loan increases your competitiveness as a buyer and alleviates the pressure of selling your current home before purchasing a new one. Waiting for your current home to sell could mean losing your ideal home to someone else. Sellers find non-contingent offers more appealing. So, the Windermere Bridge Loan ensures a smoother closing process. We specialize in streamlining the home buying and selling process, and our highly rated local experts are here to assist.
Many of our agents have used this program and have had great success. The approval process is straightforward and only takes a few days. Additionally, no payments are due on the loan before your home closes. The principal and interest payments are due either when your current home sells or within six months after receiving the disbursement, whichever occurs first.
Additional Information
Please review the new real estate law changes so that you are aware of how they impact homebuyers and sellers. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.
If you’re wondering about buying a house out of state, we’ve answered some frequently asked questions on that topic. And, check out these 8 tips when preparing to sell.
Buying a House Out of State – FAQs
Buying a house out of state can seem overwhelming, but there are important steps to take and things to do that will help set you up for success. You might be relocating for a new job, the military, or to be closer to family. Or, perhaps you want to purchase a summer home or a rental property. Whatever the reason, the information below will answer some frequently asked questions (FAQs) associated with buying a home from afar.
What are the costs associated with buying a house in Washington state?
First and foremost, buying a house in Washington state means factoring in the cost of living and housing prices in different areas. For example, Washington homebuyers can live in the city of Seattle, in nearby suburbs, or in more rural areas. The cost of living in different parts of our state varies. Check out Bankrate’s cost of living calculator to get a sense of housing costs compared to where you live right now. The property tax rates also vary by state. Additionally, real estate laws, closing costs, and even the climate can impact your home-buying decision. Learn more about purchasing a home in Washington state, and check out our informative video below to learn about the new WA state real estate law changes.
What should I consider when looking at homes on the market?
Before spending hours looking at homes online, ask yourself these important questions to narrow your search and identify your wants and needs:
1. Will this home be your primary residence, a rental home, a vacation home, or a vacation rental?
If the new home will be rented out, consider the pros and cons of managing the property personally or finding a property management company to handle marketing, screening tenants, home repairs, and more.
2. When thinking of the price, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the square footage, the kitchen’s layout, the neighborhood, and more, what do you need to have and what would you like to have?
3. Do you want a turnkey home or a fixer-upper?
4. What do you look for in a community? Think about if you want any amenities to be within walking distance or a short drive. Consider local schools, commute time, and opportunities for community involvement.
These are all important considerations to list out before you get wrapped up in pictures online. There are many beautiful places to live, but finding the place that will suit you best is key. Doing this from a distance (across states or overseas) can be tricky. That’s why creating a crystal clear picture of what you need and want before you start searching is so crucial. You’ll know what to look for, what to avoid, and what questions to ask when you’re ready to contact a real estate agent.
What should I consider when looking for a good real estate agent?
Using a local buyer’s agent has numerous benefits when buying a house out of state. They know the local real estate market and will utilize the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS) to identify homes that fit your budget and meet your criteria. Unable to tour homes in person? That’s okay. They can show it to you through video chat while pointing out specific features or flaws. Also, they will be able to answer all of your questions about different neighborhoods and communities. They can provide you will all kinds of local resources, recommended vendors, and much more. When it’s time to negotiate, they will serve as your trusted advocate. Additionally, many of our agents are relocation specialists. They possess years of experience helping manage and prepare for their clients’ long-distance moves.
If you or your spouse are in the military, consider an agent with that background. Here at Windermere Silverdale, we can provide military resources, and we love working with military families. In fact, many of our agents are veterans, have family members who have served, and/or have helped many military homebuyers and sellers for years.
The bottom line is, you want to find a highly-rated, well-connected local agent. They should have relocation expertise, extensive knowledge about the area they want to live in and be a well-organized project manager and a strong negotiator.
How does it work when there are contingencies?
It’s important to understand what might be involved in a contingent offer when buying a home out of state. As a homebuyer, you may need to include a home sale contingent offer if you are trying to sell your current home before moving. There are different types of home sale contingencies, and they have pros and cons. So if any of them apply to your situation, be sure to fully discuss them with your real estate agent so that you’re able to make well-informed decisions.
How can I streamline the home-buying process?
Buying a home out of state can create challenges when it comes to your desired timeline. Read through our Guide to Buying a Home (PDF) for a complete picture of the home-buying process. This guide will explain the pre-approval process and how to make a competitive offer. It explains escrow, home inspections, and more. It is the perfect place to start when beginning your out-of-state home-buying journey.
Another way to streamline the home-buying process is to get connected with a local real estate agent and a local lender. Additionally, these homebuying tips from a few of our local experts are helpful to know.
We wish you the best of luck with your big move and finding your ideal home here in Washington state!
8 Tips When Preparing to Sell
Preparing to sell your home can feel overwhelming, so we’ve compiled some useful bits of advice to make sure you’re on your way to a job well done. From pricing to staging, there are many factors to keep in mind. We’re here to make the selling process smoother and more successful. Read on to gain helpful tips you can use today.
1. Determine your moving timeline
Begin the home selling process by examining your personal timeline. Are the dates flexible or are you on a set schedule? Knowing the answer to these questions will help you make the right decisions regarding the repairs and home projects you should complete. Additionally, it’s important to establish clear expectations with everyone involved, including your local listing agent.
2. Consult with a listing agent when preparing to sell
A knowledgeable listing agent will guide you through the process of selling your home. They will provide you with up-to-date information including local market trends so you can make well-informed decisions. In addition to listing the home, the agent will show the property and coordinate all aspects of the real estate transaction. It’s important to take your time and find someone you work well with and trust.
3. Get a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
A real estate agent will be able to conduct a Comparative Market Analysis or CMA. A CMA is a detailed report that compares your property to similar listings in the area. It allows the agent to examine market trends and determine an appropriate list price base on other nearby homes. It will also help you determine if any potential upgrades or remodels will be worthwhile.
4. Complete upgrades with a high return on investment (if it makes financial sense)
After consulting with a listing agent and looking at a Comparative Market Analysis, you’ll want to consider completing home upgrades with a high return on investment. Take into account your moving timeline and the risk/reward of doing certain upgrades. Your local real estate guide will be able to discuss all options with you to see if the projects are worthwhile.
5. Conduct a pre-inspection when preparing to sell
Did you know a seller can conduct a pre-inspection before listing the home? This inspection will identify any repairs or problems that may need to be addressed before selling. Also, providing a buyer with a pre-inspection can create a sense of trust. Being upfront about the condition of the home demonstrates transparency.
6. Identify and make necessary repairs
After consulting with a listing agent, and examining the CMA and pre-inspection, it is time to get to work. Ensure the home has all major repairs completed before listing and showing it. Repair all roof leaks or missing shingles, and ensure there are no plumbing or gas leaks. Check that the home’s foundation is solid and repair any electrical issues. Finally, make sure all pest control measures have been completed prior to listing. If there are any potential red flags regarding your property, this is the time to address those issues.
7. Consider the Windermere Ready Loan Program
If making repairs and preparing the property for selling seems daunting due to the upfront expenses, consider the Windermere Ready Loan program. This program offers up to $50,000 in expenses incurred. It is a six-month loan with no payments due during that time. It is then paid off in one lump sum once the property is sold. Many home sellers and their agents have reported success, saying that the program helped them sell their homes for more and in less time.
8. Stage your home when preparing to sell
According to Forbes, staged homes sell 87% faster than non-staged homes. Staging allows prospective buyers to easily imagine themselves in your home. It presents homes in an enticing way. And, the majority of buyers look at homes online first, so excellent photos of well-staged spaces can make a huge difference in the number and types of offers you receive.
Listing and selling a home is a labor-intensive process that requires a team effort. Our local Windermere experts are here to help you sell your home efficiently and successfully.
