A new decade is here and with it comes significant change to Washington State’s Real Estate Excise Tax (REET). When you sell your property you pay Excise tax based on a percentage of the value. Washington State Senate Bill 5998 was signed into law changing our local real estate excise tax from a flat rate to a tiered system. This change gives owners a tax cut on the first $500,000 of value and keeps the current rate on the next $1 million. However, it also includes an increase after $1.5 million in value.
Prevent Water Damage
Now that we’re in the rainy season, make sure you have taken steps to prevent water damage. Below are 5 tips to help you prevent damage and costly repairs to your home.
Fall Home Prep Tips
With fall less than two weeks away, it’s a good time to implement some fall home prep tips. Here are six tips to help keep you warm, cozy and safe this winter.
Inspect Your Roof
It’s time to inspect your roof, before the weather changes from warm and dry, to wet and stormy. If you are unsure, or uncomfortable getting on your roof, hire a professional.
What Might a roof inspection include?
Scheduling a professional roof inspection every one or two years will catch potential roof problems before they become bigger. Also, it’s helpful to get an idea of how much life your roof might have left before needing to be replaced.
Typically, the following items will be checked in a roof inspection:
- General appearance of the roof’s exterior and interior to determine surface deterioration or physical damage.
- Evidence of ceiling cracks and leaks.
- Condition of fascia, gutters and drains, skylights, chimneys and vents.
- Curled, broken or missing shingles or tiles.
- Areas where water may collect, like roof valleys.
- Damaged or missing flashing points.
Mortgage Don’ts
Here are a few mortgage don’ts to make the application process less stressful; especially if it’s your first time. We have also included a graphic you may download as a reminder while you go through the process.
