Steve Hobson, Associate Broker, ABR

Hi Sweet Pea,
Don't give up on Craig's List - Keep Checking. You can also try http://www.rentals.com. I am an investor with 6 properties. I use both Craig's List and http://www.rentals.com. I currently do not have any vacanies, but will keep you in mind if any become available.
Steve Hobson - Wed Jul 16 2008, 09:02

Elizabeth,
This is not a question for a real estate agent. Contact a professional that is trained to give advise in this field. Most real estate agents have some knowledge, but we cannot and should not give advice of this topic. Contact an attorney or financial advisor .
Good luck. - /s/ Steve - Wed May 28 2008, 13:20

Hi Brooke,
Yes, I agree - Craig's list is a great place. I am a real estate agent AND an investor. I have rental properties and just rented my place on Lake Tapps using Craig's List. I am very happy with the results I get each time I have a vacancy. ALSO, you might try Windermere's Property Management. They are professionals in managing rental properties. Give a call to Laura Gordon @ 253-638-9811 ext 207 or you can e-mail her at: lauragordon@windermere.com. Good luck in finding a place to rent in the Lake Tapps area. Steve H. - Wed May 28 2008, 12:59

Hi Meredith,
You are terrified only because you are not familiar with the process. There are business professionals that would love to help. The most important thing to do is contact a lender. Lenders are all regulated by rules and regulations. Interest rates are generally speaking mostly the same everywhere. A lender will explain the importance of your income to debt ratio. This will tell you what the banks say you can afford. You may want to afford less and that's OK. A lender will also pull your credit report to see if you are a good risk. A high credit score means you will get the best rate. Generally speaking, you will need a 620 score or better. A 680 + score is considered good or even excellent. As far as a lender is concened it is important that you consult with experts in this field. As other real estate agents have mentioned to you, find a "FULL TIME" agent that has experience. Look for agents that have additional education (Associate Broker License, ABR, CRS, GRI, etc.) These type of agents keep current with the ever changing market. Now is a GREAT time to buy!!! Good luck. /s/ Steve - Wed May 28 2008, 12:49

Hi Aaron,
I can tell you exactly how much a house is worth!!! - It is worth what a buyer is willing to pay. Once you find a property that you wish to make an offer on, then it is the job of your agent to evaluated the home to see how it is priced in the current market. Is it priced high?, low?, or is it priced fairly. Then you will be informed and can proceed and plan your buying strategy. At no time should you consider the assessed value. It is interesting that you are looking in Puyallup or Sumner. Both of these areas have great school districts. Sumner prices are a bit higher due to less inventory and high demand. You can get more bang for your buck in Puyallup. Good luck on your search. Steve Hobson/Windermere - Tue May 20 2008, 14:30