How to Use Credits to Save Thousands When Buying a Home
Learn how using seller or lender credits can help you save thousands when buying a home. See how I helped a buyer negotiate $75,000 in credits to lower their interest rate, prepay costs, and save big every month.
Should You Rent Out Your Home or Sell? Pros & Cons Explained
Thinking about turning your home into a rental instead of selling? This article breaks down the pros and cons of each option, including a real-world financial example to help you run the numbers. Plus, we share tools to estimate your potential cash flow and important factors to consider—like whether you're up for the responsibilities of being a landlord.
Why Home Staging Matters When Selling in Kirkland, Seattle & Beyond
Discover how professional staging can help your home sell faster and for top dollar. In this article, we reveal why staging is a must in today’s market, what stagers actually do, and expert tips to make your home look irresistible, inside and out. Whether you're prepping a cozy condo or a spacious Eastside estate, these strategies will help you stand out and attract serious buyers.
5 Smart Ways to Lower Your Mortgage Interest Rate in 2025
Looking to buy a home in Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, or Bothell in 2025? Even a small drop in your mortgage interest rate can save you thousands over time. In this article, I share five smart and practical ways to lower your rate, from comparing lenders to exploring alternative loan options. If you're planning to buy in the Greater Seattle area, these tips can help you make a more financially savvy move.
How to Build an ADU or DADU in Seattle: New Laws, Big Benefits, and Smart Next Steps
Thinking about building an ADU or DADU on your Seattle property? Whether you're planning for multigenerational living, looking to earn rental income, or exploring future investment potential, now is a great time to take action. Thanks to recent changes in Seattle’s zoning laws and streamlined permitting processes, adding a backyard cottage or in-law unit is more accessible than ever. In this article, we’ll break down the benefits, key regulations, and expert resources like ADUniverse to help you get started.
10 Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Thinking about buying your first home in Seattle or the Eastside? Don’t let common first-time buyer mistakes cost you time, money, or your dream home. In this guide, we break down the 10 most common missteps, from skipping pre-approval to overextending your budget, and show you exactly how to avoid them. Whether you're house hunting in Kirkland, Bellevue, or Ballard, these tips will help you navigate the process with confidence and clarity.
How to Price Your Home Right in a Shifting Market
Learn how to price your home to sell in today’s changing market. Discover expert tips to avoid overpricing, attract serious buyers, and maximize your sale.
Buying in Bridle Trails, Bellevue: How We Helped Relocating Buyers Save $745K on Their Dream Home
Discover how we helped relocating buyers from California save $745,000 on their dream home in Bellevue’s coveted Bridle Trails neighborhood. With expert negotiation and white glove, curated daily search strategies, this success story shows what’s possible in today’s luxury real estate market.
Turn Your Home Equity Into Opportunity: ADUs, Investments & More
Your home is more than a place to live, it’s a powerful financial asset. In this guide, we’ll break down what home equity is, how to track it, and the smartest ways to use it—from building an ADU to investing in a second property or upgrading your current home for long-term value.
Q1 2025 Greater Seattle Real Estate Market Update: What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know
The Q1 2025 real estate market in King County started slow but picked up quickly by March. Explore what’s happening with prices, inventory, and buyer activity in Seattle and on the Eastside, and what it means for you.
How Mortgage Interest Rates Impact Your Home Buying Power
Interest rates play a major role in how much home you can afford. In this post, we break down how rates impact your buying power, and whether waiting for a lower rate actually makes sense.
The Ultimate Home Selling Guide: A Checklist for Maximum Profit & Minimum Stress
Selling your home doesn’t have to be stressful! With the right preparation, you can attract buyers, maximize your home's value, and sell with confidence. This ultimate home selling checklist covers essential steps that I recommend to every client - from pre-listing inspections and strategic updates to pricing and staging - to help ensure a smooth and successful sale.
February 2025 Seattle Real Estate Market Update: Trends in King County, Kirkland & Bellevue
Welcome to Spring 2025 in Greater Seattle! As the days grow warmer and drier, is the housing market following suit? February brought notable shifts in home prices, sales activity, and inventory across King County, Seattle, Kirkland, and Bellevue. From rising competition in single-family homes to surprising condo market trends, we break down the latest data and what it means for buyers and sellers heading into spring. Dive into key insights, including price trends, market activity, and what to expect in the months ahead.
Estate Planning for Homeowners & Real Estate Investors: Protecting Your Legacy
Estate planning is a crucial yet often overlooked step for homeowners and real estate investors looking to secure their assets and ensure a smooth transition for their heirs. Without a plan in place, families can face long probate processes, unnecessary tax burdens, and additional stress during an already emotional time. In a recent discussion with Chris Smalls, a Kirkland-based estate planning attorney, we explored key strategies for protecting your real estate investments after you pass. From wills and trusts to proactive legal structures, this blog breaks down essential insights to help homeowners safeguard their properties, minimize costs, and ensure their legacy is handled according to their wishes.