It depends on your loan type. Conventional loans typically require 3–20% down. FHA loans require as little as 3.5%. VA loans for eligible veterans require zero down. The right amount depends on your financial situation, how competitive you want your offer to be, and your long-term goals.

The best starting point is a Comparative Market Analysis — a detailed look at recent sales of similar homes in your neighborhood. Arielle Albinger provides these free of charge. Online estimates like Zillow's Zestimate are a rough starting point but are often off by 5–15% in Seattle's micro-market conditions.

Not necessarily. You can refinance a rate later, but you can't go back and buy the same house at the same price if it sells to someone else. If a home fits your budget and life today, the rate is often a temporary problem — not a reason to wait indefinitely.

Read more about how to think about buyer timing →

Well-priced, well-presented homes in King County and Snohomish County frequently sell within 7–14 days. Overpriced homes can sit for months. Pricing strategy is the single most important factor.

Typical seller costs in Washington State include real estate commissions, excise tax (typically 1.28–3% depending on sale price), title and escrow fees, and any negotiated repairs. Arielle walks every seller through a detailed net proceeds estimate before listing so there are no surprises at closing.

Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on self-reported information and carries little weight with sellers. Pre-approval means a lender has verified your income, assets, and credit and committed to lending you a specific amount. In Seattle's competitive market, pre-approval is essential before making an offer.

You're not legally required to have one, but it's strongly recommended. In Washington State, sellers typically pay the buyer's agent commission — meaning representation costs you nothing out of pocket. A buyer's agent negotiates on your behalf, reviews contracts, and guides you through every step of the process.

Arielle serves buyers and sellers across King County and Snohomish County, including Seattle neighborhoods like Wedgwood, Eastlake, Ravenna, Green Lake, and View Ridge, as well as communities throughout Bothell, Kenmore, Kirkland, Bellevue, and surrounding areas.

Arielle has been in the Seattle market since 2011 and has worked through multiple market cycles — including negotiating short sales during the toughest years. She's accessible, communicates clearly, and genuinely cares about the outcome for her clients. With 74 five-star reviews, her track record speaks for itself.