How to Buy a House in Washington
Updated 2026-03-02 | Data from Zillow, HUD, Tax Foundation
Avg Home Price
$626,603
Closing Costs
$13,220
2.11% of price
Property Tax Rate
0.75%
$4,462/yr median
Days on Market
32
Median
FHA Loan Limit
$977,500
Attorney Required
No
Foreclosure Type
Non-Judicial
Transfer Tax
1.1%
1.1% - 3% (graduated)
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Key Facts About Buying in Washington
- ✓No state income tax
- ✓High real estate excise tax (1.1% - 3% graduated)
- ✓Seattle metro drives majority of market activity
- ✓FHA loan limits up to $977,500 in King County
The Home Buying Process in Washington
Buying a home in Washington follows a 10-step process. Washington does not require an attorney at closing, though you may choose to hire one.
1
Check Your Credit Score & Finances
2
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
3
Find a Real Estate Agent
4
Search for Homes & Make an Offer
5
Get a Home Inspection
6
Secure Your Financing
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First-Time Buyer Programs in Washington
WSHFC Home Advantage Program
Below-market rates for all buyers
Below-market rates + up to $10,000 DPAIncome: No income limits (DPA has limits)
Cost of Buying a Home in Washington
| Down Payment (3.5% FHA) | $21,931 |
| Down Payment (20% Conventional) | $125,321 |
| Average Closing Costs | $13,220 |
| Transfer Tax | $6,893 |
| Annual Property Tax (est.) | $4,700/yr |
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Legal & Regulatory Details in Washington
Homestead Exemption
Available
Up to $125,000
Licensing Authority
Washington Department of Licensing
Washington Real Estate Law Overview
| Conveyance Document | Warranty, bargain-and-sale or quitclaim deed (non-statutory deeds sometimes used) |
| Security Instrument | Deed of trust, mortgage or long-term real-estate contract |
| Foreclosure Process | Non-Judicial |
| Attorney Required at Closing | No |
| Deficiency Judgment | No |
| Redemption After Sale | No |
| Reinstatement Available | Yes |
| Seller Disclosures | Sellers must disclose structural issues, water/sewage systems, the condition of systems and fixtures, title issues and environmental hazards. If the property is in a homeowners' association, sellers must explain common areas and how to obtain governing documents. Extra requirements apply to manufactured or mobile homes, newly built homes and unimproved residential land. |
