Samuel Hilbert

I would contact a Realtor who spends lots of time focusing on Snohomish County and seems to have a knowledge of lake front properties. You will have lots of options in Washington. If you want to push the two hour mark by a few minutes I would look into Lake Roesiger and Lake Bosworth just east of Lake Stevens. We have been involved in transactions on these lakes before and there is often several unique waterfront properties here. - Sat Aug 16 2008, 14:39

Julie -

There are so many factors to consider that I hate the statistic and number given in how long it is taking homes to sell. The number comes from an average which means that for every one home that takes 200+ days because of a number of possible problems...a dozen homes selling in less than 30 days will still give you an average of 43 days. Is this really a very accurate statistic?

The important thing to do is to look at the comparable homes close to where you are and see the data on them. Compare as much as possible apples for apples...if you see a home that has sat on the market for an unbelievably long time look closely at the listing to see why. Generally with a little research you will see why.

Our team is continuing to see some homes sell very quickly in the Kirkland/Woodinville/Bothell areas where we spend much of our time. Unfortunately we have seen some homes that for one reason or another simply do not sell in a good amount of time. Generally, we have been able to find a general reason for this. But...these homes still reflect very poorly on statistics.

Don't let market statistics get you down...look at each one closely. I am not going to suggest that selling a home now is easy...but I will stand by the belief that if you go into it the correct way your home WILL sell in a relatively good amount of time.

Good luck! - Sat Aug 16 2008, 14:19

One other thing to keep an eye on is what incentives the builder has been offering. Here in Seattle some of the new home communities really stepped up the incentives for buyers beginning last fall and into the spring and summer. Many builders around here were reluctant to drop prices but were quick to offer rate buy downs and many other bonuses as well! Perhaps this is where the builder is giving buyers more value in a slower market. - Sat Jul 26 2008, 16:16

M -

Alot of good advice on here. A couple things to really take into consideration...don't lose your relocation benefits! Yes...it will likely continue to be a great time to buy for several months though with interest rates possibly continuing to go up this could be the best time to buy. It is impossible to predict when is the "best" time to buy...but I can say that right now is a good time to buy.

The other factor is how familiar you are with this area. If you know the area already then it may be OK to buy right now...however, with Real Estate being a long term investment...you want to make sure that when you do buy it is where you want. As some people suggested, maybe a short term rental is smart while you get to know the area. Then you can purchase before your relocation benefits run out. With your budget you can find some nice townhomes and homes in the area if you are willing to spend some time looking.

Just don't make any quick decisions...take your time in the purchase process. Even if you are going to rent for a while contact a Realtor and lender today so that you can begin your home search and be ready to purchase when the timing is finally right.

Good luck on the relocation! - Thu Jul 24 2008, 14:45

Dan -

Wow...I think the key from everyone's responses are to look for referrals! As agents, this is often how we build our business...through happy clients. Successful agents receive the majority of their business through referrals and can minimize actual prospecting. Each of us agents can tell you we have our best interests in mind...but really, how can you know unless you talk to someone that has been represented by us who saw that we mean what we say.

As has also been mentioned, interview a few different agents. You should be able to find a few viable candidates...often it comes down also to a personality match...someone you feel comfortable with and confident in.

One last thing to keep in mind is where and what you are purchasing...if you are looking into townhomes or condos find an agent who tends to focus on this type of housing. If it is a million dollar home...find an agent who knows how to better handle high end properties. Different agents have different strong and weak points.

Most importantly, during your interview with your agent...don't be afraid to ask the tough questions. Have them justify their answers and give you truly good reasons why you should use them. This may make them squirm but a good agent knows exactly why you should choose them.

Good luck! - Mon Jun 16 2008, 10:12