HOW BUYING A HOME WORKS from start to keys
Nine stops between “maybe we should buy” and carrying boxes through your own front door.
The short version
Get pre-approved, sign a buyer agreement, go shopping, write an offer, do your homework on the house, then sign with escrow and get your keys. Once your offer is accepted, closing with a loan usually takes about 30 to 60 days.
The whole trip
Getting ready, shopping, and the part where it's officially yours!
Coffee and a plan
We talk through what you want, where, and when. You ask me anything. Nobody signs anything.
Sign a buyer agreement
Once we decide to work together, Washington has us put it in writing. The agreement spells out what I'll do for you, how long it lasts, and how I'm paid. If you're hesitant to commit, we can even start with a one-day agreement.
Talk to a lender
Get pre-approved so you know your real budget before you fall for a house. I'm happy to introduce you to lenders I trust.
Tour homes
Showings, open houses, and new listings sent your way the minute they hit. This is the fun part.
Write an offer
We pick a price and terms together, using recent sales so you're not guessing.
Mutual acceptance
Both sides sign. Now the clock starts on every deadline in your contract, and I track every one.
Do your homework
Inspection, the seller's disclosure, the title report, and an appraisal if you're using a loan. This is also the time to line up your homeowner's insurance, since your lender requires it to be in place before closing.
Sign with escrow
You sign your loan and closing papers, usually a few days before the closing date.
Closing and keys
The deed records with the county and the house is officially yours. Keys follow the possession date in your contract.
Questions I hear a lot
How long does buying a home take in Washington?
House hunting can take a weekend or a year. Once your offer is accepted, closing with a loan commonly takes about 30 to 60 days. Cash can be faster.
Do I have to sign a buyer agreement?
Yes. Since January 2024, Washington law requires a written agreement between a buyer and their broker's firm, signed before or as soon as reasonably practical after the broker starts working for you. I like to do it early so we're on the same page.
Should I get pre-approved before looking at homes?
Yes. It tells you your real budget, and sellers take offers more seriously when a lender has already checked your finances.
Ready to start looking?
Grab a coffee with me and we'll map out your own plan. No pressure, no homework.
General information for Washington buyers and sellers, not legal, tax or lending advice. Every home and every deal is a little different, so let's talk about yours. Updated October 2026.