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.

Thinking about buying a home in Gig Harbor? In today’s competitive market, a basic pre-approval letter isn’t enough. Learn why getting fully underwritten before you house hunt can give you a serious edge—and how it can make your offer nearly as strong as cash.

Worried About Getting Ripped Off When Buying a Home?
Buying a home can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to mean overpaying or missing red flags. In this post, Gig Harbor real estate expert Paige shares five smart, proactive strategies to help you buy with confidence and avoid costly mistakes. From choosing the right agent to understanding seller motivations, these tips will help you protect your investment and make a winning offer.

In today’s ultra-competitive housing market, having the right lender can make or break your offer. While big banks stick to business hours, local lenders are often available when it counts—nights, weekends, and in the critical moments when a listing agent needs reassurance. From faster closings to stronger agent relationships, here are five reasons why working with a local mortgage lender gives you a powerful edge as a buyer.

In a competitive market like Gig Harbor, smart negotiation can be the difference between landing your dream home and losing out. From crafting a strong, clean offer to understanding what motivates a seller, these 15 proven strategies will give you the edge you need. Whether you're a first-time buyer or seasoned mover, you'll walk away from this post feeling confident, informed, and ready to make a winning offer.

Before you fall in love with that perfect property, make sure you understand what it means to live in a Homeowners Association (HOA). From shared amenities and neighborhood upkeep to rules, fees, and restrictions, HOAs come with both perks and pitfalls. This guide breaks down the pros and cons, what to look for in the documents, and how to decide if HOA living is right for you.

Thinking about buying a home in Gig Harbor?
Before you fall in love with the perfect place, make sure you understand the real costs involved. From your down payment and inspection fees to lesser-known expenses like earnest money and prepaid taxes, this guide breaks down everything you need to budget for before you get the keys. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just need a refresher, this post is packed with local insight, practical tips, and real-world numbers to help you plan ahead with confidence.