Kitsap Lenders Weigh In!

Our 2025 Spring home market is upon us! So much has changed, and here we are, ready to see some really great homes come on the market! As we know, Kitsap is a beautiful, green, diverse place to live. We are right across the water from Seattle, which gives the opportunity for a bustling city life, while living in and enjoying the natural beauty that the Pacific Northwest has to offer. 

 

I have some really great resources, and a group of lenders who are as committed to my clients as I am. Integrity, client centered, expertise and a clear understanding of what it takes to make home transactions move quickly, smoothly, and without bumps. I checked in with three of them, to get their thoughts! 

 

Bill Dunger, with Nova Home Loans, is one of my first go-tos when it comes to mortgage lending. His experience and knowledge gives him the ability to get the job done! I know that if I have a pre approval from him, it's solid, and he will work to get it done! With him, I've been able to average 20 day closings for the last two years! He is absolutely incredible. I sat down with him, and got his take on the state of things. 

 

With Spring buying/selling season right around the corner now is the time; if you’re a buyer to get off the fence. A good deal could still be had with the right offer. Don’t be afraid to make a contingent offer! Deals are being made out there. Rates are going to come down…everyone is asking ‘when’ but don’t base your buying time on just the interest rate. It will be a slow trickle down I believe…not a fast “one time drop.” As of Feb 20th for an FHA loan in the low 6’s is a fantastic rate with the ability to buy down into the 5’s.

When is the best time to buy a home? Its always 5 years ago…. Guess what; in 5 years you will be saying the same thing!

Bill Dunger, Nova Home Loans

Ariel Zufelt, with Future First Mortgage is another incredible lender. Her integrity and attention to detail is unmatched. When I talked with her, she shared her strategy for making sure our buyers had strong negotiating power in our current market. She shared her $10,000 Closing Guarantee! This gives assurances to both the buyer, (that they have fully vetted all the information given and there should be no surprises) and the seller, (showing the seller that the lender is backing up their pre approval letter). This creates trust in the transaction, and shows that the lender is serious about the buying power of the offer presented! Conditions apply, depending on the property, of course! However, backing up our pre approval letters is critical! 

Ariel Zufelt, Future First Mortgage

I caught up with Daniel Curry, with Guild Mortgage, as well. Daniel has been doing this a long time, and has a ton of resources!  When I talked with him, he was focused on our sellers! Making a contingent offer can seem daunting! His office has a really great program for buyers, who are also selling a home! 

I wanted to let tell you about a cool new program we offer that helps bridge the gap between homeowners and being able to move up into their new home. Our new program allows homeowners to be able to make a non- contingent offer on a new home prior to selling their departing residence. We can give the sellers a guaranteed offer for their home in the event their home hasn’t sold by the closing of the new home, our partner steps in and pays them cash for the departing residence allowing them to close on the new home without issue. It’s a brand-new program that is exclusive to Guild Mortgage Bellevue!

Daniel Curry, Guild Mortgage

Whether you are a first time home buyer, a seller, or a seasoned investor, having lending options is critical! I've had some horror stories with lenders, and having a team ready to assist in our transaction makes the whole journey easier! Everything from credit repair options to luxury jumbo loans, this team can help! Give me a call, and let's schedule your free strategy session!

Now is the time!

Kari Green, Advisor with Engel & Volkers