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.

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.

Real estate terms like “contingent” and “pending” can be confusing. Each signals a different stage of a home sale—and knowing the difference can help you act fast and spot new opportunities. Learn what these statuses mean and how Schulte & Co. guides Gig Harbor buyers every step of the way.

You’re just one step away from getting the keys to your new Gig Harbor home. Here’s what to expect on real estate closing day—from walkthrough to signing and funding—plus what to bring to ensure a smooth, stress-free finish.

A failed home inspection can feel like a deal-breaker—but it doesn’t have to be. Many inspection “fails” are actually repairable defects, and knowing how to respond can save both buyers and sellers time, stress, and money. From understanding what typically causes a failed inspection to learning how lenders, insurers, and negotiations come into play, this guide breaks down what to do next so your sale can still move forward smoothly.

In today’s competitive Gig Harbor housing market, buyers need every advantage they can get. One of the strongest tools is a mortgage pre-approval, which shows sellers you’re financially ready to close. Unlike pre-qualification, a pre-approval letter confirms your ability to secure financing, making your offer stand out and speeding up the path to homeownership.

What is escrow in real estate?
Escrow is when a neutral third party holds your funds during a home purchase to make sure all conditions are met before money changes hands. In Washington State, licensed escrow officers handle everything from verifying titles and clearing liens to paying taxes and recording deeds, giving both buyers and sellers peace of mind. Schulte & Co. offers a concierge-style escrow service, guiding you through each step so you can close on your home with confidence.

Wondering if you can switch realtors after signing a contract? The answer is yes—and it’s easier than you might think. Whether you’re noticing red flags or just want a better experience, this guide walks you through how to legally and professionally make the switch. Learn what to look for in your contract, how to give notice, and why working with Paige Schulte & Co. could be the upgrade you’ve been looking for.

As interest rates hover in the 7–8% range, many buyers are asking: Is now really the right time to buy? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all—but the current market offers unique advantages like less competition, stronger negotiating power, and creative financing options. In this guide, we break down how to navigate high-rate conditions, run the numbers, and make confident decisions based on your financial goals—not just the hope of lower rates down the road.

Gig Harbor has continued to grow in the past few years, not only in the hearts of its community but also in population numbers. In that time, it’s pushed well past a population of over 13,000 as of 2025.

Explore 7 reasons a local realtor outperforms Zillow in Gig Harbor and beyond. Discover what key insider tips and a personalized service can do for you.

Purchasing land in Gig Harbor can be a rewarding investment—but it’s not without its challenges. From zoning restrictions and environmental setbacks to financing hurdles and utility access, there’s a lot to consider before you buy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 10 essential questions to ask before purchasing a lot, so you can avoid costly mistakes and make a confident, informed decision. Whether you're dreaming of building a custom home or exploring alternatives like developed lots, this checklist is your first step to a smart land purchase.