Plain-language guides to buying, refinancing and investing in Washington real estate: closing costs and excise tax, pre-approval, affordability, relocating and choosing a mortgage broker.
- Washington closing costs: who pays whatWhat Washington home buyers and sellers pay at closing in 2026, including the graduated real estate excise tax (REET) tiers and a worked example.
- Mortgage broker vs. bankHow a mortgage broker differs from a bank or retail lender: lender choice, guideline flexibility, pricing, compensation rules and when each makes sense.
- How to get pre-approved in WashingtonStep-by-step mortgage pre-approval for Washington buyers, with the exact document checklist for W-2, self-employed, retired and military borrowers.
- How much house can I afford?How lenders calculate what you can afford using debt-to-income ratio, with a step-by-step Washington example and the factors that raise or lower your number.
- Relocating to WashingtonBuying a home in Washington before or during a move: qualifying with a new job, out-of-state employment, no state income tax, and timing the sale of your current home.