Top Home Buying Tips for 2025: How to Succeed in a Competitive Market

The real estate market in 2025 is still moving fast—especially here in Gig Harbor. While interest rates have remained higher than the ultra-low rates we saw in 2021, buyer demand hasn't disappeared. Inventory continues to be tight, and well-priced homes are seeing multiple offers within days. It’s not uncommon for homes to sell above asking price, with sellers favoring clean, strong offers from well-prepared buyers.

If you’re planning to buy a home in today’s market, you need to be strategic and move quickly. Here are my top tips to help you stay competitive and land your dream home in Gig Harbor—without losing your mind in the process.

Top Home Buying Tips for a Competitive Market

Hire a Local Agent Who Knows the Market

You need an agent who’s deeply familiar with your target neighborhood—not just someone with a license. They should be able to tell you how quickly homes are selling, what types of offers are winning, and what’s happening in your price range. Bonus points if they know the listing agents personally. Relationships between agents can help you learn more about the seller’s motivations and even open the door to off-market opportunities.

If your best friend is an agent from another area, ask them to refer you to a local powerhouse. That way, your friend still earns a referral fee, and you get an agent who knows how to compete—and win—in the Gig Harbor market.

Also, brace yourself: writing 2–5 offers before getting one accepted is common. Yes, even for land or new construction. It’s wild out there.

“Paige helped us purchase a dream vacation home in Gig Harbor, and we literally couldn't have done it without her,” said buyer Michelle Husain. “Anyone can find homes online. Paige did so much more—she found us a hidden gem, negotiated directly with the sellers, and eliminated our competition.”

Work With a Trusted Local Lender

Not all lenders are created equal. A strong local lender—someone agents know and trust—can make a huge difference. They’ll help you get fully underwritten upfront, making you a far more competitive buyer who can potentially close in as little as 15 days.

Pro tip: Make sure your lender is prepared to call the listing agent to vouch for your financial strength. It’s a small detail that can seriously improve your odds.

Prepare to Buy What You See

In a competitive market, hesitation can mean losing out. Many buyers are opting to waive inspections, which I never recommend blindly—but there’s a middle ground. Line up an inspector for a pre-inspection during the offer review period so you can confidently submit an offer knowing what you’re walking into.

I keep an inspector on retainer for my buyers for this exact reason. A mini-inspection covering the big stuff (roof, crawl space, electrical, etc.) can help you spot major issues without the time or cost of a full inspection every time.

“Paige was able to quickly find us a listing and arrange a showing in less than 8 hours,” said buyer Stacey Tull. “She helped us write a competitive offer and secure the property within a day.”

Be Ready to Bring Extra Cash

It’s still common for sellers to receive offers 2–10% over asking—and they worry whether the home will appraise. To stand out, many buyers are offering to cover any appraisal gap with additional cash. This is called “additional down in the event of a low appraisal,” and it shows the seller you’re serious and financially capable.

This strategy isn’t new, but not all agents know how to use it effectively. Make sure your agent does.

Find Out What Matters Most to the Seller

Yes, money matters—but so do terms. The winning offer might come down to something as simple as a quick close or flexible move-out date. Your agent should call the listing agent and ask directly: What does the seller really want?

A well-tailored offer can outshine a higher-priced one if it meets the seller’s specific needs.

Ready to Buy? Let’s Talk Strategy

The market may be competitive, but the right approach—and the right team—can make all the difference. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking for a second home in Gig Harbor, I’ll help you position yourself for success from day one.

If you’re ready to buy with confidence and a clear plan, let’s talk. I’d love to be your advocate, strategist, and boots on the ground.

Contact Paige today to get started.