Our Distinctive Properties agents guide clients through all the details of buying or selling. We have identified over 125 tasks involved in a typical transaction including handling all the necessary and correct paperwork, negotiations, marketing, showings and so much more.
Look for experience (we have over 48 years) and a solid reputation!
Look for local market knowledge (we are a local and woman owned business) and our brokers proudly service the areas that we live in, the Tri Cities. We value and strive to be lifelong learners.
Look for responsiveness (we answer our phones), negotiation skills and a clear communication plan.
Our dedicated brokers are always happy to meet at our office for an introductory meeting to discuss your plans and show you our value!
Agents typically earn a compensation (mostly commonly referred to as commission). Buyers sign a Buyer’s Brokerage Agreement while sellers sign a Listing Agreement and, within the documents, the agent’s compensation is negotiated and specified.
A buyer’s agent represents the buyer’s best interests; a seller’s agent (or listing agent) works for the seller. You will receive an Agency Document which outlines our duties owed to you by law.
Yes, limited dual agency is legal in WA with full disclosure and consent. It means one agent represents both buyer and seller in the same transaction. Our best practices include strongly encouraging buyers to hire their own agent (we love making internal referrals) rather than us acting as a dual agent.
Get pre-approved for a mortgage with a local lender. It shows sellers you’re serious and helps determine your budget. We would be happy to share some local lenders’ contact info.
It varies. Many loans require 2.5 –20% down, but VA and USDA loans may offer 0% down options.
Speak with a local lender who will review your finances and credit. Again, we can recommend trusted local professionals.
Typically 30–45 days from offer to closing, depending on financing and inspection timelines.
Consider the home’s condition, layout, neighborhood, and potential for future needs. We can help you navigate gathering all the details and answers you want during your due diligence/inspection time frame.
It’s a deposit showing you’re serious about buying; typically known as a good faith deposit. It can get forfeited to the seller if buyer breaches contract without a legal reason (as determined in the Purchase and Sale Agreement). It’s held in our Trust Account and combined with your down payment which is credited to your purchase price at closing.
Possibly! Some lenders offer programs for lower credit scores. We’ll connect you with local experts to explore all your options.
Closing costs include lender fees, title, insurance, and some prorated costs including taxes, HOAs, etc. Typically buyers pay 3–6% of the purchase price, but sellers may contribute, in some cases, if negotiated in the contract. We will have the escrow company provide you a more detailed accounting.
Declutter, clean, and consider minor repairs or staging. We will make suggestions as we walk through your home together.
Anytime is the right time to buy or sell. Our market remains steady throughout the entire year. Spring and Summer are typically the busiest!
We provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) to assist you in understanding where your home fits in the current market. Then you decide how to price/position your home based on these local sales, market trends and your needs.
In some cases, yes; others no. We’ll advise on any cost-effective improvements that can boost your home’s value. We want you to sell with the most money in your pocket, so contact us before you start any major remodeling if you are planning to sell.
The buyer conducts inspections and due diligence, finalizes financing, and we work toward closing—typically within 30–45 days.
On average, homes in Tri-Cities sell within 30–90 days, depending on condition, pricing, and demand. But our weekly statistics can provide a more specific timeframe.
Closing costs may range between 3–9%. Sellers pay their agent, and perhaps buyers’ agent, title fees, excise tax and prorated taxes, HOA and/or repairs. We will have the escrow company provide you a more detailed accounting.
Yes, we honor standard referral agreements. Contact us directly to discuss partnership opportunities.
We’re open to co-listing arrangements depending on the property and market. Let’s talk!
We collaborate with fellow professionals on cross-marketing, joint events, and open houses. Reach out to explore ideas.
We are partnered with Rockwell/Colibri and offer amazing, reduced pricing on the pre-license education you’ll need to complete. Check out our Careers Tab, or just reach out to Christa for all the details and questions.
We are certain that you’ll have more questions as you consider buying, selling, or becoming a broker; we are just one call away.