If you are looking to purchase a home in Stanwood, WA or Camano Island, WA, you may be eligible for a 0% down loan! The USDA loan has programs for low (direct loan) to medium (guaranteed loan) income families. The program assists in the down payment, allowing 0% down.

As a buyer, there are closing costs you pay to purchase a home. It is very common to negotiate these into the price of the home, allowing $0 out of pocket to close. Often buyers do not realize that it is free to use an agent on the purchase of a home. Sellers agree to pay the listing agent’s commission along with the buyer’s agent’s commission upon listing their home. If the buyer does not use an agent, the listing agent receives the full commission and the buyer does not have representation through the deal.

If you are a Veteran, 0% down is also an option through the VA program. Keep in mind most lenders offer this program, so be sure to shop around!  I would be happy to refer you to a hardworking lender if you need.

It is extremely exciting to buy a home, and upon making the decision to buy it is difficult not to start looking online for homes. As you cannot secure a home without a formal pre-approval letter, make sure to speak with a lender and get pre-approved first. Doing calculations online does not quite sum up the total payment as taxes and insurance are not included. Often times I find buyers have the incorrect price range in mind as they did not know to include these items and begin looking at homes out of their price range. This sets expectations improperly. It is best to look at homes within your price range, and this is only known once your lender reviews your documentation and discusses your budgeted payment with you.

Finally, if you are looking online, steer clear of Zillow, Trulia and other non-brokerage sites. The information is inaccurate. These sites do not have a direct feed from NWMLS, so many homes listed on these sites are sold or Pending and are no longer available. If you need a reference, visit http://www.kellyrightseattle.com/property-search/. Start a list of your favorites and drive the neighborhoods if you cannot wait for an approval, but hold off taking a look inside until you are certain of your price range.

Have fun house hunting. Call/text me if you need me! 🙂 425-765-4432

Buyer income limits are as follows:

• King and Snohomish Counties: 1-4 Person $94,600 | 5-8 Person $124,850
• Island County: 1-4 Person $89,550 | 5-8 Person $118,200

For additional information on a specific address or eligibility, visit:

• Check address: http://eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov/eligibility/welcomeAction.do
• Learn more about Eligibility: http://eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov/eligibility/welcomeAction.do