Thinking about relocating to Western Washington and don't know where to start?
Washington is a beautiful and incredibly diverse state. You can live near the water, in the mountains, in one of the many amazing cities, or surrounded by open space. But the experience of living here can vary dramatically depending on where you choose to live.
The neighborhood you choose will affect your commute, your lifestyle, your access to amenities, and even how much sunshine you see throughout the year!
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In Washington, there is no single best city or community for everyone. The right place for you depends on your budget, your commute, the type of home you want, and what you want your everyday life to look like.
Do you want a more walkable lifestyle? Access to community groups and events? Would you rather have more space? Are you moving for work? Do you want access to the water, the mountains, restaurants, or outdoor recreation?
Check out our Neighborhood Guide to see what area feels like home!
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The timeline for purchasing a home can vary from person to person, there are a few key steps that generally determine how long the process will take.
Before you begin seriously searching for homes, you will typically need to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This helps you understand how much you may qualify to borrow and allows you to move quickly when you find the right home. If you already have a lender selected, the pre-approval process takes one to two weeks (depending on your financial situation and how quickly the necessary documentation can be provided.)
Once you are pre-approved, the home search begins. Finding the right home can happen quickly, sometimes within 24 hours, or it can take a while! There’s no rushing when it comes to finding the perfect place!
After you find a home and your offer is accepted, the closing process typically takes three to four weeks. During this time, your lender will complete the underwriting process. The home inspection and other due diligence will take place, and the necessary paperwork will be completed.
In general, the entire process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
The good news is that you do not have to navigate the process alone! Having the right lender and real estate professional can keep the process moving smoothly!
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Whether you need temporary housing while searching for a home depends on your timeline, your current living situation, and how quickly you need to move.
Some buyers choose to secure temporary housing before purchasing a home, especially when they are relocating from out of state and want time to get familiar with the area before making a long-term decision. Renting a short-term apartment, extended-stay accommodation, or other temporary housing can give you the opportunity to explore different communities, understand your commute, and experience the area before deciding where you want to buy.
Other buyers prefer to purchase a home before they move. This can be a good option if you already know the area, have a clear idea of what you are looking for, or are relocating for a job or military PCS with a specific timeline.
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When purchasing a home, you should plan for more than just the down payment. Upfront expenses may include your earnest money deposit, home inspection, appraisal, and closing costs, which can include lender, title, escrow, recording, prepaid tax, and insurance expenses. The exact amount you will need depends on your purchase price, loan program, down payment, and the specific terms of your transaction.
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Don’t stress! Check our guides below:
How much does it actually cost to buy a home?