For first time home buyers in Seattle, starting the journey to homeownership is an exciting milestone filled with possibilities—but it’s also a step that requires careful financial planning and preparation. Seattle’s competitive housing market offers everything from modern condos in Belltown to charming craftsman homes in Ballard, making it crucial to approach the process with confidence and clarity.
Understanding the financial aspects is vital for first time home buyers. There are 3 key costs you’ll need to save for when buying a home: the down payment (often 3-5% with FHA loans or as low as 0% for veterans), closing costs (typically ~2% of the purchase price), and the earnest money deposit, which secures your commitment to the purchase. Many buyers mistakenly think a 20% down payment is required, but affordable loan options make homeownership accessible for first time home buyers in Seattle.
This week, I’m working with a client who wants to sell their condo and move closer to their church while planning for the future care of a disabled child. Estate and financial planning are essential for protecting their legacy and ensuring their goals align with their next steps. Are you prepared to protect your legacy and plan for your financial future? Whether you’re buying your first home or managing long-term financial goals, knowledge is your most powerful tool.
Join us for an informative estate and financial planning workshop designed to help you align your real estate and legacy goals. Learn about critical topics such as wills vs. trusts, financial planning for your legacy, strategies for estate planning, protecting your wealth, and navigating home purchases on a fixed income. Whether you’re a first time home buyer or planning for your family’s future, this event is your opportunity to take the next step confidently.
Ready to secure your future while making your homeownership dreams come true? Let’s get started!
Turning Home Buying Fears Into Action
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it’s natural to have questions and uncertainties along the way.
How much can you afford? What should you look for in a home?
Navigating these challenges is easier with the right guidance.
I’m here to help you feel confident and prepared as you take this big step.
Learn what to expect, how to tackle common concerns, and make your first home buying journey a smooth and successful one.
Don’t let uncertainty stand in your way—watch now to start your path to homeownership!
Take The Next Step: Join Our In-Person Homebuyer Workshop

Take the guesswork out of homeownership! Join us for an in-person WSHFC-certified class designed to help first-time homebuyers navigate the process with confidence, and qualify for down payment assistance from the state of Washington.
We’ll cover everything you need to know about purchasing your first home, including step-by-step guidance and information on Washington State’s down payment assistance programs to help make homeownership more accessible.
Register here!
Fun Things To Do In Seattle: Museum Of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
January 1-31, 2025
Interactive Exhibits at Pacific Science Center
January 1-31, 2025
2024 Sundance Film Festival Short Film Tour
January 8-26, 2025
Subscribe now to stay updated on the latest fun things to do in Seattle and never miss out on exciting local events and activities!
Find More Thrilling Things To Do In Seattle
3 Key Costs To Save For When Buying A Home
Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it’s important to understand the financial steps involved so you can approach the process with confidence.
There are three key costs you’ll need to save for:
1) The down payment (This can be 3-5% down with an FHA loan.)
2) Closing costs (~2% of the purchase price), and
3) An earnest money deposit. (This can be taken from your down payment funds)
Many buyers mistakenly think a 20% down payment is required, but loan programs often allow for much smaller percentages—even as low as 0% if you are a veteran or surviving spouse.

Closing costs cover fees like appraisals, title insurance, and loan underwriting.
The Earnest Money Deposit is paid upfront as your “skin in the game.” It is refundable if you exit the deal with a pre-determined escape clause – such as an inspection or financing contingency.
Knowing these costs upfront can help you budget effectively and avoid surprises on closing day. Whether you’re just starting to plan or actively searching for a home, being informed and working with trusted professionals—like an experienced agent and lender—will make all the difference.
Plan Your Legacy: Essential Estate Planning Workshop

January 28th | 6:00pm – 8:30pm | Fairwood Country Club
[ 17070 140th Ave SE, Renton, WA 98058 ]
This week, I am helping a client who wants to sell their condo and move closer to their church. They also want to be able to take care of a disabled child, so estate planning is a must.
How about you? Are you prepared to protect your legacy and secure your future?
If you need help with estate or financial planning, join my colleagues an engaging and informative workshop designed to demystify estate planning and provide practical strategies to help you align your financial and legacy goals.
What You’ll Learn:
We’ll cover a variety of crucial topics, including:
- Wills vs. Trusts: Which option works best for your unique situation?
- Financial Planning for Your Legacy: Building a plan that supports your goals.
- Strategies for Estate Planning: Practical tips to make the most of your resources.
- Protecting Your Wealth: Safeguard what you’ve worked so hard to build.
- Understanding Reverse Mortgages: What you need to know about this tool.
- Buying Your Next Home on a Fixed Income: Tips for navigating this process.
- Aligning Wills, Trusts, and Financial Plans: Maximize the impact of your legacy.
And so much more!
Who Should Attend?
This workshop is open to everyone—whether you’re a realtor, client, family member, or friend. If you’ve ever wondered about the best way to ensure your wishes are honored and your wealth is preserved, this is an event you won’t want to miss!
Know Someone Who Could Benefit?
Feel free to share this opportunity with anyone who might find it valuable. Together, we can empower more people with the tools they need to plan confidently for the future.
Missed our newsletter? Read our past issues here