Finding the best places to live in Washington means balancing affordability, lifestyle, and long-term goals. From major job hubs like Seattle to quieter waterfront communities such as Gig Harbor, this guide breaks down how different regions serve young professionals, families, and future-focused buyers—plus how Schulte & Co.’s concierge approach helps you choose with confidence.

Living in Washington State comes with a higher-than-average cost of living, largely driven by housing prices—but not every city carries the same price tag. Gig Harbor offers a compelling balance of waterfront lifestyle, strong community, and relative affordability compared to other high-cost Washington cities. In this guide, we break down Washington’s cost of living, compare Gig Harbor to surrounding markets, and explain how smart planning can help you make a confident, financially sound move.

Closing costs in Washington state can add up quickly—and they’re often higher than the national average. From excise taxes and agent commissions to lender fees and escrow costs, knowing who pays what (and how much) can help you plan with confidence. This guide breaks down typical buyer and seller closing costs in Washington, so you can avoid surprises and move forward informed.

What does “under contract” really mean when buying a home in Gig Harbor? While it signals mutual acceptance between buyer and seller, the deal isn’t final just yet. This guide breaks down what happens after a home goes under contract, how statuses like contingent and pending differ, and how local expertise can help ensure your purchase moves smoothly toward closing.

A seller’s disclosure plays a critical role in every Washington real estate transaction. Learn what must be disclosed, how Form 17 works, common red flags for buyers, and how Gig Harbor sellers and buyers can protect their pricing, timelines, and legal standing.

Paige Schulte has been the #1 real estate agent in Gig Harbor since 2021. Discover what sets her apart—from verified rankings to off-market access.

Land surveys play a critical role in buying, selling, and improving property in Gig Harbor—especially when waterfront rules, setbacks, easements, or HOA requirements are involved. From confirming legal boundaries to supporting negotiations, permits, and lender requirements, understanding what a property survey does (and doesn’t) can help you avoid costly surprises and move forward with clarity and confidence.

Home appraisals can be influenced by more than just square footage and recent sales. From location factors and unpermitted additions to HOA rules and how living space is calculated, this guide breaks down seven surprising elements that can raise or lower a home’s appraised value—so you can anticipate outcomes, adjust your strategy, and avoid costly surprises in the Gig Harbor market.

A buyer’s agent plays a critical role in helping homebuyers navigate the market with confidence—from building a smart search strategy and evaluating fair market value to negotiating offers and managing the path to closing. In this guide, we break down exactly what a buyer’s agent does and how Schulte & Co.’s local expertise and concierge approach help buyers secure the right home in Gig Harbor without costly surprises.

Buying a home in Gig Harbor comes with unique inspection considerations—especially for waterfront and older properties. From moisture intrusion and foundation concerns to utilities, permits, and HOA or shoreline rules, knowing what to look for before you submit an offer can save you from costly surprises. This guide breaks down the most critical red flags—and green flags—to help you move forward with confidence.

A low appraisal can derail a home purchase if you’re not prepared to act quickly and strategically. From understanding how financing is affected to requesting a Reconsideration of Value, renegotiating with sellers, or navigating Washington’s contract timelines, this guide breaks down your options so you can protect your position and keep your purchase on track—even when the appraisal comes in below your offer.

From neighborhood favorites to over-the-top animated displays, the South Sound is glowing with holiday magic in 2025. This curated guide highlights the best Christmas light displays in Gig Harbor, Bremerton, Port Orchard, Tacoma, Federal Way, and beyond — perfect for festive family drives, photo stops, and cozy seasonal outings. Whether you’re cruising Candy Cane Lane or planning a visit to ZooLights, Fantasy Lights, or Holiday Magic at the Washington State Fair, this list will help you map out the most magical nights of the season.

Deciding whether to sell your home before buying your next one can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating two properties at once. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of each approach, from financing considerations to timing, market conditions, and creative solutions like rent-backs or bridge loans. With insights tailored to the Gig Harbor market and expert guidance from Schulte & Co., you’ll gain the clarity you need to choose the path that supports your goals and timeline.

Understanding the best time of year to sell your home is one of the smartest ways to maximize your return — and avoid unnecessary price cuts. In Gig Harbor, each season offers unique advantages, from motivated winter buyers to the high-value peaks of late spring and early summer. This guide breaks down what to expect in every season, how to prep your home for success, and how Schulte & Co.’s concierge services help you sell faster and with confidence no matter the time of year.

Understanding your home’s value takes more than an online estimate. While tools like Zillow and Redfin can offer a starting point, they often miss the nuances that make Gig Harbor properties unique—from waterfront views to micro-neighborhood demand. A local expert can help you interpret the data, compare recent sales, and build a true pricing roadmap. Here’s how to get the most accurate picture of what your home is worth today.

Earnest money can feel like one of the murkier parts of buying a home, but it plays a major role in showing sellers you’re serious. This good-faith deposit signals your commitment, strengthens your offer, and helps move the purchase forward with confidence. In this guide, we break down what earnest money is, how it works, when it’s refundable, and how a trusted Realtor like Paige Schulte can help protect your deposit every step of the way.

For more than two decades, Lynn MacGougan has been a trusted name in Gig Harbor real estate — but her impact extends far beyond the homes she helps buy and sell. From serving local families with integrity to supporting oncology patients with dignity and care, Lynn embodies what it means to show up for the community. This month’s Small Business Spotlight celebrates her heart, her service, and her lasting influence in Gig Harbor.

Wondering whether real estate agents are responsible for rising property taxes? They aren’t — and the truth is far more straightforward. This fact-based guide breaks down how Washington State property taxes are actually calculated, what drives increases, and why agents have zero influence on tax rates, levy amounts, or assessed value.

Discover the legacy of 3414 Harborview Drive, one of Millville’s most iconic historic homes. Built in 1888 and loved by generations of Gig Harbor families, this Harborview treasure blends unmatched craftsmanship, rich heritage, and downtown waterfront living. Sold for $1.1M in 2025, it remains a defining piece of the community’s story.

This Fox Island waterfront retreat is a rare blend of architecture, craftsmanship, and effortless Northwest luxury. Designed and built by BASK founder Jim Peschek as his personal residence, every detail feels intentional—from the low-slung cedar exterior to the calm, layered interior that captures golden-hour light at every turn. With sweeping western views, a sculptural fireplace, and spa-like primary suite, the home shows exactly why BASK continues to set the standard for luxury living in Gig Harbor.