A Step-By-Step Guide
Learn the basics of buying a house in Kitsap County, WA.
#1 Define your goals and establish clear priorities.
It's important to identify your main reasons for buying a house. This will help you avoid making impulse decisions, which cause buyer's remorse. Examples might be living closer to work, having more rooms or storage space, or making a good investment.
#2 Hire a trusted real estate agent.
(Note: Agent commissions are paid by the sellers, out of their proceeds from the sale). As your REALTOR®, I will guide your home search and negotiate your purchase contract. Who you work with matters, so choose your agent carefully.
#3 Get pre-approved (if financing).
A loan pre-approval letter is essential for serious buyers. Your lender helps you understand how much home you can afford, and what loan program fits your needs. The process includes a review of your credit, income, debt, and finances.
#4 Define your search criteria for MLS alerts.
Get notified instantly when a new home listing meets your desired budget, size, location, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and other relevant features. The MLS database makes it easy to filter your results, saving you valuable time.
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#5 Schedule showings and tour homes for sale.
Most people are naturally good at house hunting. A private showing allows you to carefully evaluate the property's advantages and potential drawbacks. While it's best to view homes in person, I can also provide HD video tours for remote buyers.
#6 Make an offer and negotiate the sale terms.
Once you've found a home you could love, the hard work begins. Your agent guides you through decisions about the price, dates, earnest money, inspections, title/escrow, escalation clauses, contingencies, included appliances, and more.
#7 Order a home inspection (if contingent).
If your offer includes an inspection contingency, you'll hire a professional home inspector as soon as you get under contract. An inspection can uncover any major hidden defects, such as a leaky roof, faulty wiring, mold, or foundation issues.
#8 Wait for the appraisal and prepare for closing.
If you’re getting a home loan, your lender will require an appraisal to determine the property's value. In the meantime, you'll complete additional paperwork, review documents, secure home insurance, and transfer utilities into your name.
#9 Review and sign closing documents.
The last step in the escrow process is signing the closing documents (prior to closing day). You'll review a disclosure form which outlines all associated fees and loan costs. A final walk-through may be scheduled prior to closing as well.
#10 Get the keys and take possession.
Once all funds have cleared and the county has recorded the sale, you'll get the keys — and you can start moving in. Congratulations, you bought a house!
Buying a Home in Kitsap County
Kitsap County is a slight seller’s market.
Easier for Buyers
Easier for Sellers
Market Balanced
Market Seller's
Market