Puget Sound Properties & Lifestyle

Not everything that adds value to a home can be measured with a calculator or found on an appraisal form. While square footage, recent renovations, and upgrades can be quantified, there are several more nuanced aspects that can influence a buyer’s perception—and therefore their willingness to pay top dollar. These subjective qualities don’t have fixed dollar amounts, but they can dramatically elevate your home’s desirability in a competitive market. Below are six such factors every homeowner or seller should understand. 1. Location “Location, location, location” isn’t just a cliché—it’s a powerful truth in real estate. Homes in highly walkable neighborhoods, near thriving downtowns or close to excellent schools often demand a premium. Whether it’s a spot near the water in Gig Harbor, a vibrant urban village in South Lake Union, or a quiet suburban enclave in Tacoma, the perceived convenience and lifestyle that comes with a great location can significantly influence how much buyers a...

If you’re working with a VA loan, you may have heard the term “Tidewater” come up during the appraisal process. For both buyers and sellers, understanding what Tidewater means and how to handle it effectively can make a significant difference in the success of a transaction. As a top Tacoma real estate agent, I know how to navigate this situation and keep a deal together. What Is VA Tidewater? The Tidewater Initiative is a process unique to VA appraisals that occurs when an appraiser believes the home’s value may come in “below the surface” of the agreed upon contract price. Instead of immediately issuing a low appraisal, the appraiser invokes the Tidewater process, which gives the real estate agents and parties involved a brief opportunity—typically 48 hours—to provide additional market data supporting the contract price. While this process is designed to offer a fair chance to justify the home’s value, it can create stress for both buyers and sellers. A low appraisal can mean the ...

When preparing clients to sell their home, one of the most critical factors that can influence its appraised value—and ultimately its marketability—is the condition of the roof. Appraisers assess various aspects of your property to determine its worth, and the roof plays a significant role in that evaluation. A well-maintained roof can add value to your home, while an aging or deteriorating roof can negatively impact its appraisal and even hinder a buyer’s ability to obtain financing or competitive homeowners insurance. As a top Tacoma Realtor, part of my job is to help my clients understand how their roof and other critical components affect marketability and salability. What Do Appraisers Look for in a Roof? Home appraisers conduct a thorough examination of the property, and the roof is one of the primary structural components they evaluate. Three key factors influence their assessment: 1. Age of the Roof The age of your roof is one of the first things an appraiser will consider....