Sellers April 1, 2024

Understanding Contingencies When Selling Your Home

If you’re preparing to sell your home in Kitsap County or in the surrounding area, there is a good chance you will find an enthusiastic buyer. However, their offer may contain contingencies. Contingencies are certain conditions that must be met before the sale of a home is finalized. They are often meant to help buyers protect their interests. As the home seller, it’s important to understand contingencies you may encounter when an offer is presented.

Are contingencies common?

Yes, contingencies are quite common. If the required conditions are not met, then the seller or buyer can exit the contract. It is common for a buyer to include contingencies in their offer.

What are common contingencies?

Let’s discuss some common contingencies. First, there is the home inspection contingency. This allows the buyer to have a home inspection within a set period of time. If an inspector finds unsatisfactory conditions or concerning areas, the buyer might negotiate the price or request repairs. The contingency could require repairs to be completed before the home sale is finalized. This is why a pre-listing inspection is so valuable for home sellers. It will ensure you won’t find any surprises that may impede the sale of your home.

An appraisal contingency could play a role in financing. This contingency requires that the house must be appraised at the sale price or higher. Depending on the agreement, this contingency may also stipulate that the sale price will be reduced to the appraised value if the appraisal is lower.

A buyer might also present a home sale contingency to you as the seller. This contingency is often included when buyers are trying to buy a new house while selling their current home at the same time. As a seller, it is important to consider this carefully. You can require a specific time frame for the other home sale to take place. If the other home is not sold in time, that will void the contract. However, you may lose out on other potential offers during that time. But if the buyer’s offer is strong, a home sale contingency can be worth it.

Finally, a title contingency is common. Before the sale is finalized, a search will be conducted to ensure there are no liens or judgments against the property. It’s a good idea to pull a pre-title report prior to listing your home to set yourself up for a smoother transaction.

How can I ensure my home is prepared?

Avoid these mistakes, and get all the necessary documents together. Gather your home’s title history and documentation regarding your property’s condition. Ask your trusted, local real estate agent to conduct a Comparative Market Analysis. Have a pre-listing inspection completed. This will give you time to make necessary home improvements, which will give you a high return on your investment. Staging can also be very beneficial.

Also, consider the Windermere Ready program. Your Windermere real estate agent can create a customized plan of action. And, Windermere can provide financial assistance so you can sell your home for more in less time. Watch the video below to learn more about this advantageous program.

Who should I consult with to review contingencies?

A knowledgeable agent can walk you through it all. They understand your needs and will advocate for them. It’s crucial to have a strong negotiator at your side, especially when discussing contingencies. Don’t be afraid to ask questions so that you can make well-informed decisions.

BuyersCommunity November 8, 2023

Our Military Connections & Resources for Clients Who Serve

We proudly support our armed forces and their families, and we’re grateful for the sacrifices they make. Many of our real estate agents have worked with military families for years and are well-versed in helping families about to PCS (for our non-military readers, that means Permanent Change of Station). As proud locals, we love introducing newcomers to Kitsap County. A number of Windermere Realtors are either veterans or have family members who are. Whether you’re preparing to move to Kitsap or thinking of selling your home, we’re here to serve you.

Our Ties to the Military

Windermere Realtors like Forrest Arnold are veterans themselves. “As a 19-year-old sailor during the Vietnam event, I was crew during 103 combat missions…all in the midst of Agent Orange…So I’m grateful to have survived that time and to live in Kitsap where veterans are honored with honest appreciation.”

Military family members offer unique perspectives as well. “I was born in an Air Force hospital with my father at war in Vietnam,” says Windermere Realtor Audrey Newell. “I’m the wife of a career Navy officer (ret.). I have seen what service means, and I am thankful to all who serve, and the families and communities that support them.” Audrey also shared this powerful quote by Winston Churchill: “Never was so much owed by so many to so few.” 

A Navy spouse and Windermere Realtor, Ida Bear shared a recent, meaningful experience. “Jim and I had the opportunity to visit Normandy, France. We spent a great deal of time there getting our heads and hearts around the selfless commitments made by thousands of soldiers. In the Normandy American Cemetery, we have almost 9,400 Americans laid to rest, most of them killed on one day of conflict.  This quote hangs at Normandy and rings true and stuck with me:

“You can manufacture weapons, and you can purchase ammunition, but you can’t buy valor, and you can’t pull heroes off an assembly line.” – Sergeant John R. Ellery, U.S. 1st Infantry Division, landed in Normandy on D-Day

Kitsap County Resources

Kitsap County is a beautiful place to live. If you’re new to the area or looking for resources to assist those who are, we hope these will help you. We’re also proud locals, and many of our agents grew up here. So, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Real Estate Resources for Military Clients

If you’re preparing to move, Military OneSource has planning tools and relocation articles. Additionally, that’s where you’ll find the official Department of Defense guide for military installations worldwide. If you’re thinking of buying a home, you can easily learn about different types of VA loans, such as a Purchase Loan and an Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL). Branch Manager/Mortgage Consultant, Cherie Kesti, is our partner lender, and she can determine your buying power according to current BAH rates. We also have a helpful Home Loans Q & A article with her.

If you’re thinking of selling, here are some mistakes to avoid. and information about renting vs. selling your home. Our agents can also provide additional information about Kitsap County’s real estate market, Western Washington’s market, and more.

 

Buyers September 17, 2023

How to Negotiate After a Home Inspection

Even if the house you are buying seems perfect, often a home inspection will uncover necessary repairs. As the home buyer, it’s within your right to request credits or fixes to address those issues. Here are a few tips to effectively negotiate after a home inspection.

Required Repairs

Since a lender is making a financial investment in your new home, they will require an inspection. Additionally, the lender may require certain repairs before moving forward. Sometimes, these requirements are outlined within the loan agreement. Most often, this applies to major defects that could adversely impact a home’s property value. This typically includes structural issues, water damage, pest infestations, and building code violations.

Ideally, home buyers here in Washington won’t have major surprises discovered during the home inspection. Sellers are required to provide a disclosure form outlining defects and details about the home. That said, sellers can be unaware of certain issues, which is why home inspections are still really important.

Ask For Repair Credit

If the home inspection does reveal repairs, often the best strategy is asking for repair credit. Remember, the seller is in the process of packing up and moving on. They are no longer invested in the look and quality of their old home. There is a good chance that the seller won’t approach making repairs with the same level of care and attention to detail that you will. As a result, negotiating a repair credit and lowering the sale price is a great option. This way, the seller doesn’t have to worry about the repair, and you get a better deal. Once the sale is final, you can hire contractors you trust to do the job right. New to the area? Your local real estate agent should be able to recommend someone.

Be Practical

As you review the home inspection and contemplate the repair list, think about your plans for the house. Maybe there is damage on one corner of the kitchen floor, but your plan is to replace the floor eventually. Then perhaps it’s best to forego trying to address this relatively minor issue and focus on negotiating major repairs.

While sellers in Washington State are required to disclose defects, they are not required to fix them. If a major defect is revealed during a home inspection, your lender may require having it repaired. It’s your right as the home buyer to go back to the seller and attempt to negotiate this through a repair credit or a fix-it request. Technically, the seller can refuse. If the seller says no, you will have to decide whether to make the repair yourself or whether to call off the deal.

Consult Your Local Real Estate Agent

Working with a knowledgeable local real estate agent is essential in these situations. A highly rated Windermere Poulsbo agent can guide you through the home inspection process. If the inspection reveals necessary repairs, your agent will work with you to determine which repairs are worth negotiating. They will also negotiate on your behalf. If the seller declines, your agent can help you decide the next best step. Being able to rely on an expert negotiator after a home inspection is invaluable. Any huge financial decision should be made with as much information as possible and with the support of a local, experienced advocate at your side.

For additional information regarding the home-buying process, check out the Windermere Guide to Buying a Home.

Buyers July 14, 2022

Managing Expectations When Buying a Home

While having an idea of what you want in a new home is important, managing expectations is also crucial to a smooth home buying experience and long-term purchase satisfaction. Knowing more about the local market and what’s available in your price range will empower you as you begin searching for the perfect place. The following tips and insights from some of our Windermere Poulsbo agents will help you get started.

Buyers, Keep Your Head Up: Be Prepared

Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you will make. As with all important purchases, the more you know the better. Being prepared will help you have a realistic outlook in a competitive market. Thankfully, you don’t have to prepare on your own. A great real estate agent will help guide you through the process. “Your realtor should have extensive knowledge of the local market, and should share current market data so you have a solid understanding of trends and patterns,” explains Managing Broker/Realtor Marisa Robba. For more insights on how to prepare, watch Marisa’s video below.

Aging and Your Forever Home: Consider Downsizing

As you think about buying a home, also think about the future. If your children are grown or you don’t need as much space, this might be a good time to downsize. Or as what Broker/Realtor Forrest Arnold likes to call right-sizing. Moving into a smaller place can help manage your expectations by simplifying your buying options and financial obligations. Also, as you think about getting older, it’s important to consider finding a place that you imagine living in for a long time, your forever home. A house where you can age in place safely. “The key here is realistic advanced planning for your peace of mind, and the peace of mind for your family,” Forrest explains. Watch Forrest’s video to learn more about finding the right place for both your present and future self.

Buying Land: Do Your Research

If you would prefer to move into a brand new home and know exactly what you want, then buying land might be the best option for you. In Kitsap County, there is undeveloped land available to build your dream home. This is an exciting option that allows you to customize a home to suit your lifestyle. But before you dive in, make sure you know what to look for. Simply looking at the local plat map isn’t enough, buying land is a complex process. Broker/Realtor Annita Baze Hansen recommends walking the land to discover whether there are “steep slopes, wetlands, or streams. Setbacks will limit the building site for building a home.” Watch Annita’s video to learn other great tips for buying land.

Find an Agent: Work With an Expert

Buying a home is much more complicated than your average purchase. You will have to navigate competing with other buyers, negotiating with the seller, acquiring a loan, etc. Agents have the education and experience in real estate to help manage your expectations and guide you through this complex and sometimes stressful process. Real estate agents know all the tricks of the trade and will represent your best interests during the purchase. Plus, as Broker/Realtor Brystal Narte points out, agents “have access to off-market listings that would otherwise be unavailable” to buyers. Watch Brystal’s video to learn more about why working with an expert is best.

Choose a Local Agent: Build a Relationship

Working with a local real estate agent is the best way to start building a relationship with your new community. Not only are they experts on the local market, but they also have deep knowledge of various neighborhoods, community perks, and local schools. Additionally, they live and work in the community and are a fabulous resource to answer any and all questions you may have. As Brokers/Realtors Kimmel & Young share “it’s not so much transactional as it is relational.” Learn more from the Kimmel & Young team on the benefits of working with local agents.

If this is your first time buying a home, our first-time home buying checklist and our home inspection checklist are also great resources to help you get started.

Buyers April 15, 2022

Why a Local Lender Can Make a Huge Difference

Looking to buy a home but worried about this competitive seller’s market? There are many steps to take that can set you apart from the competition. One of those can be using a local lender. A great local lender can be very advantageous. We’ll explain why with insights from some of our real estate experts.

A Personalized Approach

Before going to a bunch of open houses, you need to get pre-approved for your loan. While your existing bank is an option, along with many online providers, a good local lender offers personalized service. Buying a home can be a stressful process and it will likely be the biggest purchase you ever make. So, you want to work with people who can easily answer your questions on the phone or in person. This is especially helpful if you have a complicated situation or if you’re a first-time homebuyer.

Their Reputation Matters

A local lender lives in the community where you’d like to buy a home. So, their clients’ feedback and their reputation mean a great deal to them. Do your research and choose your lender carefully. “Buyers need a strong reputable lender in their corner more than ever!” says Audrey Newell, Broker/Realtor. “To make your offer stand out, make sure your lender has a well-earned reputation for being responsive and getting loans closed. Local lenders make all the difference. I encourage ALL of my Buyer clients to choose their lender with great care.”

Build Trust and Confidence

A local lender is appealing to sellers and to their real estate agent because everyone wants the process to go smoothly. Local lenders have better reputations when it comes to closing on time. Therefore, using a local lender builds trust. This is especially important if you’re trying to win in a multiple offer situation. While there are many factors, a trusted local lender could be the difference between getting the house or not. The sellers or their agent may be put off by a national bank or online lender if they’ve had a bad experience with them in the past. Managing Broker Amy Allen says, “I always encourage buyers to work with a local lender for various reasons. Most importantly, I want their offer to stand out in this competitive market! In our small community, listing agents have had experience working with one of our fantastic local lenders, and they can be assured that we’ll get closed on time!”

Penrith Home Loans works hard to offer the best local financing options to Windermere clients,” explains Cherie Kesti, Penrith Branch Manager/Mortgage Consultant.  “The long reputation of Penrith as a local lender is instrumental in helping the Real Estate Brokers and their clients gain a sense of confidence that their transaction is going to close on time, with the best financing options available, the highest level of communication, integrity, and ease. I’ve known sellers who picked a Penrith-approved buyer amongst a myriad of offers because they had a past positive experience with Penrith and knew their transaction would close as agreed.”

Here at Windermere, we’re proud of our partnership with Penrith Home Loans. Real estate agents like Bonnie Chandler can attest to Penrith’s benefits. “I have referred many of my clients to Cherie Kesti of Penrith for many years. They are so appreciative of her knowledge in lending and her wonderful attention to them in providing excellent service.”

Local Expertise

A local lender knows our real estate market very well. And, Forrest Arnold, Broker/Realtor, points out, “A nearby lender is familiar with the area. They may well provide the best rates and a smoother appraisal/loan process than a distant national bank. And, many loan sources will have their local specialty (such as land loans, construction financing, or VA loans). So, we at Windermere help our clients to find the local lender that will be the best match for their needs.”

 

For more home buying tips, check out our First-Time Home Buyer Checklist and our article “What I Wish I Knew Before Buying a Home”.

 

Buyers June 18, 2021

First-Time Home Buyer? Here’s Our Checklist to Get Started

Congratulations, you have decided to buy your first home! While it’s easy to view homes for sale online, there are some important steps to set you up for success as a first-time home buyer. Here’s our checklist to help you get started.

1. Know What You Want in a Home

Before you start showing up at open houses, it’s important to sit down to hone in on your wants and needs. Without doing so, it’s like going to the grocery store without a list. And in this strong seller’s market, no one wants to waste time wandering around while great homes are being snatched up. While you may not know exactly what you want, even having some of the key elements nailed down can really help you in your search. 

  1. Where do you want to live?
    Do you want to live within walking distance of restaurants and shops, out in the country on acreage, beachside, or near a ferry to Seattle? From forested retreats to waterfront estates, convenient condos to sprawling equestrian properties, there are many options across Kitsap County. But what suits you and your needs?
  2. How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want?
    If you have children or are thinking of having them, consider how this will impact your home environment and use of space now and in the future. Also, decide if you want or need a spare room for guests, a home office, or a playroom.
  3. Is a backyard a need-to-have or a nice-to-have?
    Many people want space for their kids and/or dogs to play, room for a garden, and to entertain guests. Others simply want a little space between themselves and their neighbors. How do you imagine spending time in your dream home? And, how much home maintenance would you prefer?
  4. What type of community do you want to live in?
    If you see a property that looks appealing, be sure to check out the neighborhood. Research the schools near that home and see what amenities are nearby. Don’t be afraid to walk around in the neighborhood and say hello to people. Ask them how long they’ve lived there and what they like or don’t like about it to really get a feel for the area. Home can mean different things to different people. Some are happy to live in a “bedroom community” where they reside while their primary focus is on where they work and their easy commute. Others want to know their neighbors and feel part of a tight-knit network. Even simply knowing that the schools are solid and seeing smiling faces nearby can help inform you as a buyer.

2. Know Your Budget

Buying a house is a big commitment, and it’s essential to know how much you can afford to spend before you start seriously searching. All mortgage lenders will check your credit history, income, and assets. Lending companies want to make sure you’re capable of paying off the loan plus interest. So it’s best to get your finances in order beforehand. As a matter of fact, it’s best to get pre-approved for a loan. First, this will show you’re a serious buyer to sellers. Secondly, it’s important to remember the added costs of buying a house such as settlement and closing costs. Some first-time home buyers may not know that they are often responsible for paying for appraisals and closing costs. You can learn more about this in our Home Buying Guide

3. Find a Reliable, Local Agent

Finding a great, local agent can help you in a variety of ways. You want someone who is knowledgeable, a good listener, and will serve as your advocate. A top-notch local agent will know the local real estate market and have strong ties to excellent local vendors who will also assist you. This is especially important if you are new to the area. Local agents have been networking in the area for years. Additionally, local agents have insider knowledge to help you find the house of your dreams at the best price possible. 

4. Be Emotionally Prepared

Finally, buying a house can be emotionally exhausting. Places can show up on the market and get sold in record time. Negotiations can fall through for various reasons. In our current seller’s market, we’re seeing many multiple offer situations. That’s why it’s so important to start off on the right foot and have an excellent agent helping you through the home buying process, especially as a first-time home buyer.

For more information about our area, check out our Newcomer’s Guide to Kitsap County. In it, you’ll find videos, articles, and helpful links to learn about our communities, schools, daycares, recreation options, housing prices by city, and much more.

Community February 8, 2021

New Agent Spotlight: Rebecca Olodort

We’re excited to feature new agent Rebecca Olodort. She knows how important it is to be a good listener, a strong advocate, and a trusted guide. Rebecca offers a wealth of information and experience and her love of home design and helping people shines through. Read on to find out more.

What unique professional experiences or skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a Realtor?

I am a detail-oriented, practical, strategic problem-solver who ran a 50M fashion business for many years. Critical to being able to do this was: listening to all involved parties.

What drew you to real estate?

A passion for helping people combined with a love of home design.

What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?

It is critical that a Realtor be trustworthy, determined and a good listener. The ability to see all sides of a situation gives me the unique opportunity to create a smooth and seamless real estate transaction.   

Which areas do you serve and what do you love about those areas?

I serve King, Kitsap, Jefferson, and Clallam Counties.  We have the best of all worlds in hiking, boating, and access to downtown Seattle via ferry. I love hiking the many local trails. There are really too many to mention but I highly recommend Fort Lawton Trail, Lake Crescent, and North Kitsap Heritage Park. Our favorite restaurants in North Kitsap are Kingston Ale House, Streamliner Diner, and Burrata Bistro. Another fun day for us is taking the ferry to Seattle, visiting one of the many museums (especially the Seattle Art Museum), and having a bite to eat and a lovely glass of wine at Purple Café.

Rebecca Olodort Open House Windermere

How long have you lived here?

I was born in Kansas, raised in southern California, and I’ve been living in the Pacific Northwest for over 10 years. We were looking for an area with a small town feel and access to a major city with an international airport. We moved to Kingston in 2016 to design and build our forever home.  Simply said, we have the best of all worlds.    

How are you involved in the community?

I’m a White Horse Golf Community Board Member and their Design Review Chair. Also, I’m a volunteer for Meals on Wheels of Kitsap.

What made you decide to work with Windermere?

After working for major corporations such as Estée Lauder, Swarovski, and Fossil Group, it was an organic decision to work with the most professional and successful real estate brokerage in the Pacific Northwest.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?

I enjoy shopping at Central Market and the local Farmers Market to select ingredients for preparing healthy meals for my husband and 96-year-old mother. In 2019, we adopted our Maltipoo, Sadie, from the Kitsap Humane Society and she is a 10-pound bundle of joy!

Rebecca Olodort family Christmas 2020

We are so glad to have Rebecca Olodort as a new member of our Windermere team. She’s a sincere pleasure to work with and you can connect with her on Facebook and Instagram, or visit her website

Community December 17, 2020

New Agent Spotlight: Angela Winks

We are proud to feature Angela Winks in our new Q&A spotlight series. With a diverse set of skills and experiences, Angela offers buyers and sellers a focused, personalized approach with an emphasis on clear communication, positivity, and a sincere appreciation for the areas and clients she serves.  Read on to find out about Angela’s background, what she loves about real estate, and more.

What drew you to real estate?

What drew me to real estate was my passion for all things “home” and my deep desire to help others.  I also have always had the desire to have and manage my own business. As a business owner, personal growth and a positive mindset are a vital part of every day and I absolutely love being in an industry that constantly requires me to learn and be more so that I can give more to my family, friends, clients, and community.

What unique professional experiences or skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a Realtor?

My years of experience in the health and fitness field helped me sharpen my skills as a strong communicator and leader. As an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and Director of a post-physical therapy exercise program, I had the opportunity to help clients and patients set and achieve their goals, not only safely and effectively, but in a welcoming and fun environment.

As a Realtor, I enjoy the same opportunities. Whether my clients need to sell or buy real estate, it’s important to have clear communication and a great plan. And, of course, it is always my pleasure to make the whole process as enjoyable as possible for my clients!

What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?

Realtors should possess exceptional interpersonal communication and relationship skills as well as the ability to stay open-minded, focused, organized, and creative.

Which areas do you serve and what do you love about those areas?

I happily serve Kitsap, Pierce, Mason, Jefferson, and King counties. I believe we are incredibly fortunate to live in this part of the country and Washington state. The natural beauty is astounding and the support for the communities and their wonderfully unique local businesses is second to none.

How long have you lived here?

I have lived in Kitsap County for 7 1/2 years. I came here after college because I had family scattered around the area and fell in love with the natural beauty.

What made you decide to work with Windermere?

I decided to work with Windermere because of their special focus on building and nurturing relationships as well as their strong presence in the community. This is a company that truly cares about people and that is extremely important to me! They also provide the latest technology and education for their agents so we can always keep adding tools to our real estate toolbelts and serving our clients at our highest level.

We are delighted that Angela Winks has joined us. We know she will be a sincere pleasure for buyers and sellers to work with here on the Kitsap Peninsula and in Pierce, Mason, Jefferson, and King County. You can connect with Angela through her website

Real Estate Market October 22, 2020

North Kitsap’s Market: Third Quarter Review and Forecast

Our Strong Seller’s Market

It’s a strong seller’s market here in North Kitsap. Inventory remains low while demand is high. In our third quarter, the median sale price was up 9% year-over-year at $508K. Buyers should be aware that multiple offer situations have become more common in our area. Our Brokers have seen an increase in situations where some buyers are outbid either by price or by an all-cash buyer. 

sold pending graph north kitsap county

inventory graph north kitsap county

north kitsap real estate stats

Market Predictions

Although mortgage rates remain historically low and demand is high, our Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner, has some concerns about how this may impact real estate down the road. “We may be heading towards a period where we see houses turn over at a far slower pace as we stay in our homes for longer than ever…this could be a problem as it leads to persistently low levels of inventory for sale, which itself could lead to prices continuing to rise at above-average rates and that would further hit affordability.” As for mortgage rates, Gardner does not expect them to rise significantly any time soon. However, he says, “We should all be aware that there could be consequences to very low rates”.

Western Washington Review

Let’s zoom out a bit and look at our area. Below are highlights from The Western Washington Gardner Report provided by Windermere Real Estate’s Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner.

WESTERN WASHINGTON HOME SALES

  • Total Sales: 11.6% increase from Q3/2019, and 45.9% higher than Q2/2020
  • Homes for Sale: 41.7% lower than Q3/2019, but up 1.6% from Q2/2020
  • Pending Sales: up 29% from Q2/2020

WESTERN WASHINGTON HOME PRICES

  • Average: $611,793 (up 17.1% from Q3/2019). Low mortgage rates and limited inventory are clearly pushing prices up.
  • Prices will continue to increase as long as mortgage rates and inventory levels stay low. If this continues to be the case, affordability issues will become more apparent in many markets.

DAYS ON MARKET, WESTERN WASHINGTON

  • Average: 36 days (an average of 4 fewer days than in Q2/2020 and 2 fewer days than in Q3/2019)
  • In Kitsap County, average days on market: 20

Conclusion

In Gardner’s Western Washington Report, he states that, although we have a strong seller’s market that is very buoyant, he’s “starting to see affordability issues increase in many areas—not just in the central Puget Sound region—and this is concerning. Perhaps the winter will act to cool the market, but something is telling me we shouldn’t count on it.”