Real Estate Blog

Washington’s picturesque mountain towns have become increasingly popular not just for vacationers but also for investors seeking lucrative short-term rental opportunities. As platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo continue to thrive, the demand for vacation rentals has surged—driving up home prices and reshaping the local real estate market. Rising Housing Costs & Limited Inventory With more homes being converted into short-term rentals, local buyers, including first-time homeowners and long-term residents, are finding it harder to compete. The increased demand has led to a limited housing supply, pushing prices higher and making affordability a growing concern in these communities. Balancing Tourism and Housing Needs While vacation rentals provide a strong economic boost through tourism, they also present challenges for locals who need stable housing. Some towns are considering stricter regulations, caps on short-term rental licenses, or additional taxes to create a balance between in...

The Washington State House of Representatives has approved House Bill 1696, aiming to broaden homeownership opportunities for residents, particularly those historically affected by housing discrimination. ​ NonStop Local Tri-Cities/Yakima Key Provisions of HB 1696: Expansion of the Covenant Homeownership Program: Established in 2023, this program offers down payment and closing cost assistance to first-time homebuyers. The recent bill proposes to increase the Area Median Income (AMI) eligibility threshold from 100% to 120%, allowing more individuals to qualify. ​ Loan Forgiveness: The bill introduces loan forgiveness for qualifying participants after five years, reducing the financial burden on new homeowners. ​ Impact of the Covenant Homeownership Program: Since its inception, the program has facilitated the purchase of 247 homes across 20 counties, with an additional 54 loans pending. This initiative addresses historical barriers to homeownership faced by Black Ameri...

A wall mounting bracket keeps your mini split heat pump elevated off the ground, providing several benefits: ✔️ Better Airflow: Proper clearance prevents airflow restrictions, improving efficiency. ✔️ Protection from Debris & Weather: Keeps the unit away from dirt, snow, and pests. ✔️ Reduced Vibrations & Noise: A sturdy mount minimizes vibrations that can lead to excess noise and wear. ✔️ Longevity: Elevating the unit helps prevent rust and prolongs its lifespan. How to Choose the Best Mini Split Wall Mounting Bracket When shopping for a bracket, consider the following: 🔹 Weight Capacity: Ensure the bracket can support the weight of your mini split unit (measured in BTUs). Most brackets are rated for 9,000-36,000 BTU units, but always check manufacturer specs. 🔹 Adjustability & Compatibility: Some brackets offer adjustable arms to fit different mini split models, while others are designed for specific brands. 🔹 Material & Durability: Look for hea...

As the spring season approaches, many prospective homebuyers are pondering whether it's an opportune moment to enter the housing market. Recent data indicates that the median U.S. home sale price is approximately $426,000, marking over 20 months of consecutive year-over-year gains and nearing record highs. Additionally, mortgage rates have stabilized below 7%, influenced by factors such as a softer job market and economic uncertainties. ​ Redfin Market Dynamics: Despite elevated home prices, certain regions are experiencing a surge in home sales as buyers adapt to current mortgage rates and pricing trends. This resilience suggests that, for many, the desire to own a home remains strong, even amidst financial challenges. ​ Expert Insight: Daryl Fairweather, Redfin's Chief Economist, notes that this period may be the most favorable for buyers in the past two years. With mortgage rates comparable to those from two years prior and an increase in housing inventory, buyers p...

Looking to save money while making your home more energy-efficient? The IRS offers tax credits that reward homeowners for investing in energy-saving upgrades. If you’ve been considering improvements like new windows, insulation, or solar panels, now is the perfect time to take advantage of these benefits! What Is the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit? The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit is designed to help homeowners offset the cost of upgrades that improve their home's energy efficiency. This credit, available through 2032, can provide significant savings when filing your taxes. What Home Improvements Qualify? The IRS allows homeowners to claim tax credits for a variety of energy-efficient upgrades, including: Windows, Doors, and Skylights – Replacing old, drafty windows and doors with energy-efficient models can help lower energy bills and qualify for a tax credit of up to $600 . Insulation – Adding insulation to your home can improve energy efficiency and quali...

When it comes to keeping your kitchen or bathroom sink area tidy and functional, choosing the right soap dispenser is a small but impactful decision. Should you opt for a built-in in-sink soap dispenser or stick with a classic countertop bottle? Each option has its own advantages and drawbacks, and finding the best fit depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of both styles and compare some of the best options available on Amazon . (Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.)  In-Sink Soap Dispensers Pros: ✅ Clutter-Free Look: Built into the sink or countertop, in-sink soap dispensers provide a seamless, minimalist appearance. ✅ Refillable from the Top: Many models feature a top-fill design, eliminating the need to crawl under the sink to refill. ✅ Cost-Effective Over Time: With the ability to refill from ...

When it comes to home improvement, safety should always be a priority—especially when working with electricity. That’s where voltage testers come in. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or simply want to be prepared for minor electrical issues, a voltage tester is an essential tool that helps prevent accidental shocks and ensures safe repairs. In this blog post, we’ll explore what voltage testers are, their benefits, and how to choose the right one for your home. (Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.)  What is a Voltage Tester ? A voltage tester is a tool designed to detect the presence of electrical voltage in outlets, wires, circuit breakers, and other electrical components. It helps homeowners and professionals determine whether a circuit is live before performing any electrical work. Using a voltage tester can prevent dangerous shocks, electri...