Meeker Mansion

If you’re looking a piece of history rich in both culture and design, look no further than Puyallup’s Meeker Mansion. Whether you’re looking for a way to explore Puyallup’s history or have visitors in town and want to show off our community, the Meeker Mansion is a great place to visit. Let’s take a look at the beginnings of this Washington landmark and explore the intricate details of this beautifully designed home.

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The Original Owners

Born near Huntsville, Ohio, Ezra Meeker played an integral role in the expansion and development of the far Pacific. Known more notably for his involvement in Congress and in the making of the Old Oregon Trail, Ezra lived close to a century accomplishing more than most could ever dream of.

In 1851, Ezra married Eliza Sumner and together with their son, Marion, they began their journey through the westward trek to Portland, Oregon, more famously known to many as the Oregon Trail. After five exhausting months, their family settled in Kalama and eventually settled in what’s now known as Puyallup. Once the Meeker family began calling Puyallup their forever home, Ezra became one of the richest and most influential men in Washington. In fact, he became famous across the nation and even the world.

As the first mayor in Puyallup, Ezra spent the next thirty years working as a merchant, a bank president, and also promoting the Northwest, and these were key factors in his success.  Ezra also produced a promotional pamphlet and spent a lot of time traveling to the east coast to encourage new immigrants to migrate to the new territory.

After a failed attempt in the hop industry, Meeker then began helping miners by supplying vegetables in the Yukon and Klondike fields. Recognized as an early pioneer, Ezra valued the importance of preserving the history of the western movement and the Oregon Trail. Mr. Meeker spent many years dedicating his life to this.

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The Meeker Mansion

Though a lot of the history of the Meeker family was based on the successes of Ezra Meeker, the Meeker Mansion was Eliza’s passion. Built with her own personal money and push, Eliza’s role in the design and look of the mansion is what gives it the charm and memories.

Enriched with columned porches, balconies, decorative trim and eave brackets, the Meeker Mansion has exquisite features that make this property a true piece of the history of Puyallup. Along with a bay window as the focal point on one side, the mansions double parlor extends 24 by 14 feet.

The interior of the mansion is just as splendid as the exterior if not more. The gold tile surrounds the carved details of the home’s fireplace, a major focal point of the double parlor. As you enter the reception parlor, the ash wood stair hall extends from the carriage entrance to the entrance doors. The feature of the sheltered seat sits beneath the stairs’ unique balusters design.

For guests and visitors, the mansion offers a port-cochère that is both convenient and a welcoming touch. This protective covering sits on the site entrance to welcome friends and loved ones into a stained-glass window filled room. After guests arrive they were greeted in the front parlor that served as the reception area complete with an ornate wood fireplace.

As you travel to the second floor, you can find the same luxuries as the first floor. The upstairs parlor faces the east to really capture the light of the morning sun, and the second-floor billiard room, currently under restoration, is filled with charms yet discovered.

The dining room of Meeker Mansion is furnished in beautiful oak with the ceiling painting colors reflecting the designs of the tiled fireplace details. To capture more of the building’s history, the light fixture in the dining room is a reproduction electrolier that would have been dual gas and electric during its era.

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The Mansion Today

Today, the Meeker Mansion is one of the town’s most significant and historic places and is run by The Puyallup Historical Society at Meeker Mansion, a private 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation. The main goal of the Puyallup Historical Society at Meeker Mansion is to operate and restore and preserve the history of the home and surrounding grounds. The Puyallup Historical Society at Meeker Mansion offers:

• Guided and self-guided tours
• Family days
• Special events
• Weddings
• Private events
• Teas

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Living in Puyallup

The rich history of Puyallup is one of the great reasons to live here. If you or a loved one is interested in living in Puyallup, contact me for more information. I would love to show you what this area has to offer, such as the Tacoma Country and Golf Club and find you the perfect home that fits your style, specifications and price range. If you’re selling in Puyallup, let me show you how to stage your home to sell and find you that perfect buyer.

Continue browsing my site for more information or just pick up the phone and contact me today. I look forward to hearing from you and to welcoming you home to Puyallup. Let’s get started today.

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Traveling in Tacoma

The city of Tacoma, Washington is unlike any other! Located in Pierce County, Tacoma is a mid-sized urban port city and is located approximately 32 miles southwest of Seattle. As the third-largest city in the state, Tacoma is home to a population over 198,000. The area has become known for being the center of business activity  for the South Sound region.

If you’re thinking of visiting this great city, take a look at these must see spots!

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Art Lovers

Tacoma’s art scene is truly amazing! Having been described as one of the hotspots for artist, Tacoma has it all – painting, sculpture, theater and of course glass blowing. The streets are filled with a vibrant urban core and creativity is all around. Get lost in the museum district and historic bounties!

• Chihuly Bridge of Glass: this 500-foot-long pedestrian overpass serves as a link between the Museum to downtown Tacoma. Marking the center of the bridge, you will find the Crystal Towers. These large crystals act as beacons of light for both the bridge and the city, which rise forty feet above the bridge deck.
• Museum of Glass: the Chihuly Bridge of Glass leads you to the museum where you’ll find a large variety of exhibitions, collections and also live glass making! It’s the center for lovers to appreciate the medium of glass as artist express it through their creative experiences. If you’ve never experienced live glassmaking, you will be truly impressed!
• Broadway Center for the Performing Arts: when it comes to top quality and diverse performances, you can count on the Broadway Center for the Performing Arts! This non-profit center is recognized for its leadership in presenting world-class performance artist and also by providing one of the largest performing arts education programs in Washington. With over 51,000 students and teachers, the Broadway Center continues to be a key player in ensuring Downtown Tacoma’s revitalization! Take a look at their upcoming events!

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Nature Lovers

If you love nature in its purist form, you’ll love what Tacoma has to offer! From nature tours to parks to zoos, there’s a little something for everyone! Located along the saltwater banks of Puget Sound, Tacoma is home to some of mother nature’s most beautiful creations!

• Destiny Harbor Tours: take one of their scheduled tours or charter a private tour for your family and friends! Leaving from the Port of Tacoma or from Gig Harbor, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see the city from a unique perspective. Each tour ranges in departure time and length, so be sure to contact them for information!
• Point Defiance Park: Point Defiance Park is definitely a Tacoma gem! Stretched over 702 acres, the park is home to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Northwest. An interesting touch to Point Defiance Park is a chance to experience  life set in the Washington Territory during the 1850’s. Along with the zoo and aquarium, patrons can enjoy hikes, formal gardens, a marina and saltwater beaches. What a day!
• Tacoma Farmers Market: this giant marketplace is located downtown and brings the highest quality of local produce available in the area! Imagine the best growers, food producers and artisans all in one place. This means having access to the top farmers, fishermen, bakers and cheesemakers! The sense of community and healthy living is absolutely amazing! You’ll love everything about the farmers market!

Other notable attractions:

• Children’s Museum of Tacoma
• Deep Forest Challenge
• Emerald Queen Casino
• Lakewold Gardens
• Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
• Port of Tacoma
• The Grand Cinema
• Brown’s Point Lighthouse and Cottage

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Visiting Pierce County

There are so many things to see when you’re in Tacoma and I hope you’ll take advantage of what the city has to offer through art, culture, nature and even by visiting one of the many locally-owned restaurants or shops! Indoors or out, you’ll find yourself falling in love with Tacoma!

If you’re new to the area and considering a move, take a look at the Pierce County local market updates. As you prepare for the purchase of your Pierce County home, take a look at the possible things that can go wrong with a real estate sale so that you’re better prepared. Of course, having the right real estate agent can help minimize problems and keep your transaction moving forward!

Feel free to continue searching my site for more information on Pierce County and the surrounding areas and don’t hesitate to contact me with any specific questions! As an experienced agent in real estate for over 25 years, I will be able to provide you with exceptional service and extensive knowledge of the local market! Make contact with me today!

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Pierce County

Pierce County is one of the most beautiful places to live in Washington. Surrounded by saltwater shores and towering mountain peaks, Pierce County is a place full of culture, nightlife and fun!

With a population over 795,000, Pierce county is the second most populous county in the state behind King County and named for U.S. President Franklin Pierce. Visitors and residents place Pierce county as part of Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue. Most notably known for being the home to Mount Rainier Volcano, the tallest mountain in the Cascade Range, Pierce County has a total area of about 1,806 square miles.

With its thriving arts and culture community, diverse landscape and wealth of recreational activities, its no wonder people flock to the area and decide to call Pierce County their home. Residents and visitors enjoy various shows and performances, taking part in one of the many sports or outdoor activities, or spending the day at one of the must see attractions. Whatever you enjoy, I’m sure Pierce County has something for you!

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Take a look at some notable places for the art lover:

• Broadway Center for the Performing Arts
• Grand Cinema
• Lakewood Playhouse
• Museum of Glass
• Northwest Sinfonietta
• Speakeasy Arts Cooperative
• Tacoma Art Museum
• Tacoma Little Theater
• Tacoma Concert Band
• Tacoma Musical Playhouse
• Washington State History Museum

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Natural and geographic features to note:

• Anderson Island
• Carbon River
• Cascade Range
• Case Inlet
• Commencement Bay
• Fox Island
• Herron Island
• Ketron Island
• Key Peninsula

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Pierce County Home Prices

Pierce County home prices range from low to high depending on size, location and condition of the property, but truly has homes for sale in every price range. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious mountain retreat, cozy condos or townhomes, or maybe a wooded piece of raw land to build, it’s available here in Pierce County.

The median price of homes listed in Pierce County is approximately $289,000 and the median price of homes sold in Pierce County is approximately $240,000. According to Redfin, that’s an 8.1percent increase from last year’s median sold price and 15.8 percent increase from last year’s median list price!

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What to Expect This Year

Whether you’re looking to buy or sell this year, the market is looking promising on both sides! Northwest Multiple Listing Service, prices in Pierce County increased nearly 10 percent over the past year and in comparison to 6.4 percent in King County and 6.68 percent in Thruston. The prices in Pierce County are not just indicators of the housing market, but also the local economy! This means new jobs are being created and big box stores are opening in the area.

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Pierce County Real Estate

The market in Pierce County is growing so quickly, and a reason for this is that Pierce County home prices are still very affordable compared to neighboring county prices at $400,000 in King County.

Once you’ve taken a look at what this great county has to offer, I’m sure you will consider buying. Also, with the Pierce County home prices being so affordable, it’s a great time to purchase and call Pierce County your home!

With access to great schools, including 16 public schools, 4 private schools, and 6 higher education establishments, a vast selection of recreational activities, such as hiking and skiing and the lively cultural scene full of arts and entertainment, people find Pierce County to be a great place to live and raise a family.

Give me a call today and let me show you the spectacular offerings in Pierce County in some of the best neighborhoods including Bonney Lake, DuPont, Eatonville, Fife, Graham, Lakewood, McKenna, Milton, Olympia, Puyallup, Roy and Tacoma to name a few.

If you’re considering purchasing or selling a home in Pierce County, please consider using me as your agent. I have the education and experience to deliver and come highly recommended by my previous and current clients. By offering a full range of services, I’m able to help you with effective marketing strategies by integrating the latest technology. Call me today!

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Romantic Getaway

Depending on what kind of adventurer you and your significant other are, there are plenty of things to do as demonstrated by our list of Pierce County Romantic Weekend Getaways. Strolls along one of the area’s local beaches, taking in what nature has to offer on one of the many trails available, or just getting together for a romantic evening over dinner at one of the local hot spots, are just a few of the options available when you’re wanting a romantic evening together.

If you are looking for a weekend away, start with a hotel or bed & breakfast.

Pierce County offers plenty of choices when it comes to hotels. A popular choice for visitors is Hotel Murano. With its location in downtown Tacoma, the hotel is a few steps from the city’s best museums and restaurants. Hotel Murano is a Forbes four-star rated hotel and features a collection of glass art from all around the world inline with Tacoma’s American glass art movement. With high-class service and contemporary design, you’re sure to enjoy your visit!

If you’re looking for something a little cozier, consider visiting The Villa Bed & Breakfast located off North 5^th Street in historic Tacoma. The B&B is just a quick 30-minute drive from Sea-Tac International Airport. With its short distance from many of the local attractions, it’s a great place to spend your weekend while still remaining close to entertainment. The Villa Bed & Breakfast features a delicious gourmet breakfast, welcoming rooms, and numerous verandas overlooking spectacular views of the city. The property also offers a beautiful extensive garden for their guests to enjoy.

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Here’s a list of other hotels and B&Bs to consider for your weekend stay:

• Silver Cloud Inn
• Holiday Inn Express-Tacoma Downtown
• Hampton Inn & Suites
• Geiger Victorian Bed & Breakfast
• Thornewood Castle Inn and Gardens

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Where to Spend your Anniversary

After getting settled in your hotel or B&B, it’s time to explore what the city has to offer for your romantic getaway! If you’re an art buff, the Tacoma Art Museum and the Museum of Glass are great places to spend the afternoon while enjoying each other’s company before a night out on the town.

The Tacoma Art Museum opened to the public in 2003 and is located next to Union Station. As a popular spot for a cultural experience, the Tacoma Art Museum offers various exhibitions, an art classroom, art studio and a resource center. It would be easy for you and your significant other to get lost in the extensive collection together.

Perhaps you both have an interest in live glassmaking. The Museum of Glass provides a truly unique experience for those who have never seen glassmaking. As a center for the glass art movement, the Museum of Glass offers diverse education programs, a hands-on art studio and the Hot Shop. You can find the Museum of Glass by the stainless steel cone that serves as a beacon to this great site.

During the evening hours, Downtown Tacoma is home to three theaters-the Pantages, the Rialto, and the Theater on the Square. Enjoy a night filled with shows and performances from some of the biggest names in the country. You’ll experience something spectacular in one of these great theaters!

Pierce County has much to offer residents and visitors and there are many other options for your weekend getaway. Here are some additional places to consider on your visit:

• Mount Rainier: hiking, trails, nature and more
• Point Defiance Park: zoo and aquarium, botanical gardens
• Eagle Island State Park: marine park, picnics on the beach
• Tacoma Nature Center: self guided walks, animals, and a lake

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Romantic places to dine:

• Marzano’s Restaurant (Italian)
• Asado Cucina Argentina (Argentinean, Steakhouse)
• Pacific Grill (American, Seafood)
• Duke’s Chowder House (Seafood)
• Lobster Shop South (Seafood)
• El Gaucho Tacoma (Steakhouse)
• Primo Grill (Mediterranean)
• Marrow Kitchen and Bar (American, Vegetarian)

Once you visit the great area of Pierce County, I’m sure you’ll consider taking a look at Pierce County homes for sale. With my experience and dedication to providing the best service possible, I know I will be able to help you find your perfect home. Feel free to browse my property search to get an idea of what you’re looking for. Make contact with me today!

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Local Spots

Pierce County is the second-most populous county in the state of Washington. Coming in behind King County, Pierce County has plenty to offer its residents and visitors. Most notably known for being the home to the Mount Rainier volcano, Pierce County boasts communities full of arts and culture. For those residing, visiting or thinking of moving to this charming area should take into account the great schools, rich culture and peaceful scenery.

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Pierce County Local Family Spots

Residents and their families take pleasure in what Pierce County has to offer. Parks, biking, camping and skiing are just a new of the family friendly activities available. The Pierce County local family spots include visiting parks, museums, local art shows, or maybe just grabbing a delicious bite of food! Whatever the activity, Pierce County brings a lot to the table when it comes to spending quality time together.

Mount Rainier offers hiking, climbing, cycling, fishing and boating. There are also excellent opportunities to explore the park and nature on one of the many trails available. With onsite lodging available, you can make a real adventurous weekend for your family at Mount Rainier.

In Tacoma, the Tacoma Nature Center is a great place for educational fun! With 71 acres to explore, the Tacoma Nature Center is home to reptiles, birds, amphibians and many different plant populations. Complete with a 17-acre lake, visitors enjoy the year-round residents of mallards and geese. Families can enjoy walking trails through the wetlands and forest areas. A great trip for everyone!

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Local Attractions

Surrounded by nature, Pierce County boasts some of the best views in the area of shorelines and mountain peaks. Whether you’re planning to hit the slopes of Mount Rainier, indulge in history as you visit one of the many museums, or perhaps catching a show at the local performing arts theater, there’s sure to be something for each member of the family.

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Where to take your Family on the Weekends

There are so many great things to do on the weekends with the whole family. Besides heading to a local movie theater or grabbing a bite to eat, you can indulge in the beauty of the surrounding nature by visiting one of the local parks or providing some fun and education at one of the many museums. Whatever your family enjoys, there’s sure to be something for each family member!

Home of the Tacoma Rainiers, Cheney Stadium provides a family fun atmosphere full of America’s favorite pastime, hot dogs and cold drinks! Cheer on the local favorites with your neighbors and friends.

If you want something truly unique, take a trip to Chihuly Garden and Glass. Located next to the Space Needle, the exhibition includes eight galleries, the glasshouse and a lush garden, that provides a look and influence of Dale Chihuly. The glasshouse is a 100-foot long sculpture made of many different elements. Focused on a color palette of reds, amber, yellow and orange, this incredible site is proof of Chihuly’s work pushed the boundaries of glass.

Another wonderful place to bring the family would be Point Defiance Park. Home to the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, the Rose Garden, Rhododendron Garden, numerous trails, access to beaches, a boathouse and a boardwalk, Point Defiance Park affords a lot of educational fun for the whole family. Point Defiance Park has more than three million visitors each year and is maintained and operated by the Metropolitan Park District of Tacoma.

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Here are some other great places to visit around Pierce County:

• LeMay-America’s Car Museum
• 5 Mile Drive & Trails
• Museum of Glass
• Washington State History Museum
• Tacoma Art Museum
• Union Station
• Wright Park
• Broadway Center for Performing Arts
• Bridge of Glass
• Tacoma Dome
• Eagle Island State Park

As you can see, Pierce County has a lot to bring to the table! Family and friends can come together and enjoy various activities within the community while spending precious time with family members. There’s so much to offer by ways of entertainment, fun and dining and there’s sure to be something for everyone!

If you are interested in relocating to this great area, do not hesitate to contact me. I can show you Pierce County real estate that fits the style, design and price range that you are looking for. Feel free to take a look at recently sold properties as well as featured listings in the area. I can’t wait to work with you to help you buy or sell your home! Make contact with me today!

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Mortgages

Pierce County is the second most populous county in the state of Washington. Pierce County is home to the Mount Rainier volcano, which is the tallest mountain in the Cascade Mountain Range. Pierce County offers its residents and visitors a wide range of natural and geographic attractions and features, as well as several national protected areas, including Mount Baker – Snoqualmie National Forest, Mount Rainier National Park, and Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge.

With all that Pierce County has to offer, it is no wonder that so many visitors fall in love with Pierce County Washington and choose to call Pierce County “home.”

Once you have decided to purchase a new home, one of the first things you will need to do is get a mortgage. Unfortunately, today’s home buyers have fewer choices when it comes to getting a mortgages than they would have during the big real estate boom; today’s lenders have returned to more sensible and safe home lending and financing, and have stepped away from the loans based on risky terms that were so popular from 2000 – 2008. However, there are still plenty of options for you to secure a quality mortgage.

When shopping around for a mortgage, you will come across three basic types of mortgages, for the most part. The three basic types of mortgages are as follows:

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Fixed Rate Mortgage

With a fixed rate mortgage, your interest rate on the mortgage stays constant and remains the same for the entire length of the mortgage loan, and they payments are split into equal monthly payments for the entire duration of the loan. Especially during the first few years, only a small percentage of the payment in a fixed rate mortgage actually goes toward paying off the principle; rather, most of it is being applied to the interest on the loan.

While there are also options for 10 years, 15 years, and 20 years loans, the most popular fixed rate mortgage remains the 30-year mortgage, due to the fact that it makes the monthly payments lower.

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Adjustable Rate Mortgage

Unlike a fixed rate mortgage that carries an interest rate that remains constant and unchanged throughout the life of the mortgage, the interest rate on an adjustable rate mortgage, or ARM, can change and fluctuate year to year. A particularly popular option is a hybrid adjustable rate mortgage, which features aspects and features of both fixed rate mortgages and adjustable rate mortgages.

For instance, the mortgage could start out as a three year, five year, or ten year period of a fixed interest rate. After the fixed rate period ends, the loan is then amortized over the balance and remainder of the term with an interest rate that can adjust year to year.

Typically, there are caps on these types of mortgages, on the initial interest rate reset, as well as a cap on the amount that the interest rate can change over the remainder of the loan.

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Interest Only Jumbo Loan

Affluent homebuyers who have irregular incomes most often use these particular types of mortgage loans. As the name suggests, this particular type of mortgage allows you the option of paying only on the interest of your loan for the first few years. While there are options to pay on the principal as well, the option remains to pay interest only.

Interest only loans are structured similarly to adjustable rate mortgages, in that the interest only period lasts for only a certain period of time, whether it is the first 5 or 10 years. After that, the interest rate will begin to adjust annually, with the homebuyer making payments that go toward both the interest and the principal.

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About Pierce County Washington Real Estate

Regardless of the type of mortgage you choose, it is crucial that you do your homework and understand your investment. Be sure that there are absolutely no details of the mortgage that you don’t understand. If you have any questions about how the mortgage process works, or which type of mortgage would be best in your situation, please feel free to call me. I am Vickie Jennings, and I am a Pierce County Washington real estate expert. It is my mission to provide exceptional service to anyone who has come here searching for Pierce County homes for sale. Take a look around my site, then browse through my featured properties to get a feel for the current market. Once you’re ready to search the available homes, give me a call or connect with me online. Let’s get started!

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Stage Your Home

Staging your home to sell is simply the act of sprucing up your home to get it ready to sell. Many people choose to stage their home themselves; however, many sellers see the benefits of working with a home staging professional. Staging your home properly can play a huge role in the offers you receive for your home, so it’s important to not overlook this critical step.

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Staging Tips

There are several tips and tricks you can you when staging your home to help it sell faster. Below are several tips for how to stage your home to sell:

• Get rid of clutter! This is, hands down, the most important thing you can do to get your home ready to sell
• Pay attention to the grouping of your furniture. Your rooms will feel bigger if you furnish your rooms by floating the furniture away from the walls. Reposition your couches and chairs into conversation friendly groupings.
• Play musical furniture. Feel free to let yourself move some things around, such as furniture, artwork, or other objects around the house. Sometimes, giving something a new and fresh space can make all the difference in the world.
• Transform your rooms. If you have any rooms that are just gathering junk, or aren’t serving a purpose, repurpose them. It doesn’t have to be anything drastic; sometimes, even just adding a piece of furniture or two can make a world of difference.
• Pay attention to the lighting. The difference the proper lighting can make in transforming a room is undeniable. Pay attention to the lighting in your rooms, and aim for a total of 100 watts for every 50 square feet in your room. Increase or decrease the wattage of your light bulbs, if necessary.
• Make your rooms feel bigger. One trick to making a room feel bigger is to paint it the same color as the adjacent room or rooms.
• Neutral and appealing. One of the key factors of how to stage your home to sell is to make sure that you home is as neutral as possible, having mass appeal. You never know who will end up purchasing your home, so it’s important to try to appeal to as many buyers as possible.
• Remove any items or photos from your home that are overly personal. If there are too many personal items of your family in the home, potential homebuyers can often have trouble imagining their family living in the home. Again, think mass appeal.
• Experiment with color. Don’t be afraid to try a bold, dark color on the walls. Homeowners often shy away from colors that are dark, thinking that it will make the room look and feel smaller. However, the opposite effect is often true – dark colors can make any room instantly feel more cozy, intimate, and inviting.
• Vary your wall hangings and decorations. Place and arrange your pictures and artwork in unexpected and creative ways on the walls. This allows potential buyers to look at your walls with a fresh set of eyes. Arranging your artwork in a stereotypical high line around the room can render your artwork and creativity almost invisible.
• As they say, three’s company. It’s important to mix the right accessories when staging the rooms in your home. When grouping or arranging accessories and decorations, keep in mind that odd numbers are always the most appealing. Scale is also surprisingly important, so vary the height and width of the objects. Start with the largest item in the back, and work to the smallest object in the front. Group accessories by common factor, such as color or texture.

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Hire Someone to Stage Your Home

If you have any doubts about how to stage your home to sell, then I recommend that you consider working with a staging profession before selling your Pierce County Washington property. If you’re ready to search the available Pierce County real estate, then you have come to the right place. I am Vickie Jennings, and I am so glad that you are here! I aim to provide each of my clients with the highest level of personal service; in fact, it’s my #1 priority. I offer a complete range of services to my clients, and I am dedicated to providing only the highest level of quality services. I market and sell all sorts of real estate, including residential properties, condominiums, commercial properties, farms and ranches, land and acreage, as well as waterfront and vacation properties.

Feel free to browse through my website, to learn more about me and our area. Search through my current listings, and then give me a call. I look forward to connect you with a home that is perfect for you and your family!

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What Can Go Wrong?

There are several things that can go wrong with a real estate sale, both from a buyer’s perspective and a seller’s.

As a buyer, there are several additional things that can go wrong with a real estate sale. These problems include the following:

• You’re not pre-approved for a mortgage. Once you’ve made an offer on a home, it can be devastating to find out that you weren’t pre-approved for the amount of the mortgage and you can’t get a loan for the total amount that you. For this reason, it is crucial to work with a mortgage specialist, who can help you make an informed decision when it comes to getting pre-approved for a mortgage.
• Interest rates are fluctuating constantly, and sometimes even a small increase in interest rates can mean that you suddenly don’t qualify for the mortgage you need. Again, this is why it is important to work closely with a mortgage specialist, who can help you keep an eye on the market and will let you know of any foreseen increase in interest rates.
• New government legislations. Sometimes, the government will make decisions about mortgages, such as the amount of time a mortgage can be amortized, which would make your monthly mortgage payments higher – and therefore, out of reach for some homebuyers.
• At closing, you may be short on the cash you need for a down payment or closing costs. It is often helpful to try to negotiate low to no closing costs, or even roll the amount of your closing costs into your mortgage amount, if possible.
• Sometimes, your life events, as a buyer, may change. For instance, you may have lost your job, or recently experienced an unexpected separation or divorce, or even an illness or death. There are so many factors that can be life changing, and could affect your desire and also your ability to purchase a home.
• Other times, buyers simply change their minds about a property. Perhaps one of your family members doesn’t like the house. Perhaps you didn’t remember the driveway being quite as steep as it is. You could be unhappy with the home’s inspection report, or notice damage to the house’s structure that you had not previously noticed. There are plenty of reasons buyers change their minds about a home.

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What to Expect When Selling Your Home

When selling your home, it is often best to expect the unexpected. So many unplanned events can come up, and so it is important to be as flexible and adaptive as possible. Although they aren’t common, there are several things that can go wrong with a real estate sale as a seller, including the following:

• You may have changed your mind about selling your home. Many things could contribute to this change in mind – a job transfer didn’t go through as planned, a suitable replacement home couldn’t be found, etc.
• Financial concerns. You may realize that proceeds from the sale won’t be what you were expecting or anticipating, or that you owe more on the home than you will make from the sale.
• You cannot meet the contractual terms of the agreement, such as move out date.
• Other problems with the property. There are several other problems that could spring up in the sale, including a title that is not free and clear, being short on cash and unable to clear up current liens on the property, inability to complete agreed upon repairs, or undisclosed damage to the home that comes to light.

While it is rare, there are sometimes other, more severe problems that a seller will face in a home sale, such as finding out your property is uninsurable or even unsaleable, due to extenuating circumstances such as being structurally unsound, infested with dangerous mold, and such.

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How to prepare for selling your home

Working with the right real estate professional can help alleviate stress and any potential roadblocks in your transaction, whether you are buying or selling a home. I am Vickie Jennings, and I would love the opportunity to earn your business – and your trust. I provide each of my clients with the highest level of service, and their satisfaction is my ultimate goal. If you are interested in Pierce County real estate, then please feel free to browse through my website for more information on the area, and read through the testimonials of my satisfied clients. Call or connect with me to get started today!

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