How much do I need to buy my first home on the Eastside?

It depends on the loan and price range. Some programs allow 3–5% down, and there are Washington first-time-buyer and down-payment-assistance options. A lender can give you the exact down payment and closing-cost figures for your situation — many buyers need far less than 20%.

How long does buying a first home take?

Once you're under contract, financed purchases typically close in about 30 days. The search itself varies with inventory; being pre-approved and using instant alerts shortens it significantly in a fast market.

Buyer guide

The First-Time Buyer's Guide to the Eastside

Buying your first home in a fast, high-value market is a big step — but it follows a clear, repeatable path. This guide walks you through it from first conversation to keys, with the local details that matter in Washington.

By Shivali Sharma, Real Estate Broker · Dulay Homes LLC

Step 1: Figure out what you can comfortably afford

Start with a budget that includes the full monthly payment — principal, interest, property taxes, insurance, and any HOA dues — not just the price. A lender can map this out and tell you what you'll need for a down payment and closing costs. Many first-time buyers qualify for lower-down-payment loans and assistance programs they didn't know existed.

Step 2: Get pre-approved (ideally underwritten)

A full pre-approval makes your offers credible and tells you your real ceiling. In a competitive market, an underwritten pre-approval — where the lender has already verified your documents — is a genuine advantage.

Step 3: Separate must-haves from nice-to-haves

Lock down your non-negotiables (budget, commute, bedrooms) and stay flexible on the rest. Clear priorities let you act decisively when the right home appears — which, on the Eastside, is often within the first weekend.

Step 4: Set up instant alerts and tour with intent

Save a search so new matches text you the day they list. Tour enough to calibrate, then be ready to move. Seeing the right home first is frequently the whole ballgame.

Step 5: Write a competitive, protected offer

Your offer is more than price — earnest money, contingencies, timeline, and presentation all matter. I structure offers to compete while keeping your protections intact, and lean on listing-agent relationships to strengthen your position.

Step 6: From mutual acceptance to closing

After acceptance, we manage inspection, appraisal, financing, and title through escrow — usually about 30 days. I keep the deadlines and paperwork on track so you can focus on your move.

Down-payment-assistance and first-time-buyer loan programs change and have eligibility rules. Ask a lender what's currently available for your situation before assuming you need 20% down.

Frequently asked questions

How much do I need to buy my first home on the Eastside?: It depends on the loan and price range. Some programs allow 3–5% down, and there are Washington first-time-buyer and down-payment-assistance options. A lender can give you the exact down payment and closing-cost figures for your situation — many buyers need far less than 20%.
How long does buying a first home take?: Once you're under contract, financed purchases typically close in about 30 days. The search itself varies with inventory; being pre-approved and using instant alerts shortens it significantly in a fast market.