Buying a house in Tacoma’s frenzied real estate market is possible. Buyers in Tacoma need a good agent and a good strategy. If you haven’t read our “Tacoma Real Estate Market Update” click through and check it out.
What is it like to buy a house in Tacoma?
Tacoma’s real estate market is the hottest in the country. We have very few homes to sell and many many buyers moving to Tacoma from across town and across the country. Tacoma real estate agent and MovetoTacoma.com creator Marguerite Martin sits down with her niece and colleague Keryn to talk about how to be a prepared buyer in Tacoma.
They talk about how buyers can prepare to write offers, what they can expect to pay, and how to keep a cool head in the midst of the frenzy. Tacoma is different than other local markets, and Marguerite and Keryn talk about how to find your perfect house and what it takes to have your offer accepted.
How do I find a Tacoma real estate agent that is right for me?
Finding the right real estate agent makes the process of selling or buying a home in Tacoma a million times easier and more joyful. That said, a lot of folks aren’t sure what to look for when choosing a Tacoma real estate agent. The most important thing is to choose an agent that specializes in exactly the kind of transaction you are about to participate in. Tacoma and Pierce County have many different types of neighborhoods, properties, and real estate agents. You deserve to have an expert agent that you like and trust, who likes and trusts you right back. Click here to see a list of tips and tricks on our sister site GetRealTacoma.com for choosing the best real estate agent in Tacoma for you.
How do I choose a Tacoma mortgage lender?
In a market as frenzies as Tacoma’s right now, you definitely want to have a rock solid pre-approval before you even start looking. to be competitive, I always recommend a pre-approval from a LOCAL lender who you can meet with, build a connected, who knows our market very well. Make sure the person you work with (or someone on their team) is responsive and available for questions, pre-approval letters for offers, etc. Even on weekends! This will help you be more appealing to the seller in a multiple offer situation. Again, just like real estate agents make sure your lender is very familiar with doing loans in your price range and on the type of loan and property you are planning to purchase! From raw land to condos to different types of loans on single family homes, find yourself someone who is familiar with what you’re doing.
How do I choose a neighborhood in Tacoma to buy a house in?
Tacoma’s neighborhoods (and Pierce County’s neighborhoods) have a lot of variety. So choosing the neighborhood that’s right for you should be a pretty straightforward choice once you know what you want. Some things to consider: ideal purchase price, architectural style, the size of the lot or how much land you get with your house, and proximity to local amenities. I talk to people who absolutely NEED to live within 5 blocks of an amazing coffee shop. Other people tell me they want a home where they can’t even see their neighborhood. If you want new construction you’ll end up in a different neighborhood than if you want a vintage Craftsman home.
The best way to peruse Tacoma’s neighborhoods and get info on price, architecture, and neighborhood businesses is to check out our Tacoma Neighborhood Guide. We have photos, videos, and even what the neighbors are saying about different neighborhoods in Tacoma and across Tacoma. Good luck finding the right neighborhood for YOU!
How much will I have to pay for a house in Tacoma?
The median price in Tacoma and Pierce County has risen sharply in recent years. As a result, Tacoma has been the hottest real estate market in the United States for several years running. This surprises people who think Tacoma might be a place to find a bargain. It really isn’t anymore. The most affordable neighborhoods in Tacoma have median prices in the low 300’s. The most expensive neighborhoods in Tacoma have median prices above 700K. So there’s a big difference in what it will cost to buy a home across the city. Pierce County is the same.
In conclusion, buying a house in Tacoma’s frenzied sellers market requires a research and preparation, but is still possible. The important thing is to choose a neighborhood you love and find the real estate agent and lender who have the local expertise to help you get your offer accepted. Good luck!
Marguerite Martin is a different kind of Tacoma real estate agent. Check out the Tacoma Neighborhood Guide to find answers to questions you have about neighborhoods in Tacoma and Pierce County. When the time is right to start looking, Marguerite can connect you with a local real estate agent who specializes in the neighborhoods you love most. Click here to contact Marguerite.
Marguerite Martin Tacoma real estate agent
