State Buyer Guide
Down payment assistance, Washington housing programs, closing cost estimates, and what to know before buying — including from FSBO sellers.
FSBO sellers take pre-approved buyers seriously. LendingTree lets you compare rates from 200+ lenders in minutes — for free.
Affiliate link — we earn a commission at no cost to you. Disclosure
The Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) is your primary source for below-market mortgage rates and down payment assistance in Washington. Programs are available through approved lenders — not directly through the HFA.
Below-market first mortgage plus DPA for first-time buyers.
Extra assistance for lower-income first-time buyers in Washington.
Personalized mortgage rates in 3 minutes
See real rates from multiple lenders with one soft credit pull. Credible pays up to $240 per funded loan — which means they have every reason to find you the best rate.
Compare Mortgage Rates →On a $565,000 home: approximately $12,995
Washington's Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) is paid by the seller at graduated rates: 1.1% on amounts up to $525K, rising to 3% above $3M. As the buyer, your closing costs are relatively modest.
Washington is an escrow/title-company state. An attorney is not required at closing, but for FSBO transactions, hiring one to review the purchase agreement is a smart investment.
Find licensed home inspectors near you
HomeAdvisor instantly matches you with licensed, background-checked home inspectors in your area. Read real reviews, compare quotes, and book online.
Find an Inspector →While Washington doesn't require an attorney at closing, FSBO buyers should strongly consider having one review the purchase agreement and title work.
Nolo has been the go-to legal resource for DIY buyers since 1971. Their real estate guides explain purchase agreements, contingencies, and closing in language anyone can understand.
Browse Legal Guides →Get a real estate attorney to review your purchase agreement or help you draft an offer letter — often for a fraction of traditional legal fees.
Get Legal Help →Download state-specific purchase agreements, addenda, and disclosure forms — written by attorneys, ready to use in your state.
Browse Real Estate Forms →Washington first-time buyers can access programs through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) (https://www.wshfc.org/), including the WSHFC Home Advantage Program (DPA up to 4% of loan amount; competitive rates) and the WSHFC Opportunity Program (Up to $10,000 at 1% interest). Federal programs like FHA loans (3.5% down) and USDA loans (0% down in eligible areas) are also available.
Closing costs in Washington typically run 2.3% of the purchase price. Transfer tax: REET paid by seller (1.1–3% tiered). Washington's Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) is paid by the seller at graduated rates: 1.1% on amounts up to $525K, rising to 3% above $3M. As the buyer, your closing costs are relatively modest.
Washington is an escrow/title-company state. An attorney is not required at closing, but for FSBO transactions, hiring one to review the purchase agreement is a smart investment.
The median home price in Washington is approximately $565,000. Property taxes average 0.93% of assessed value annually.
Ready to start the process?