Home Buyer Class on Oct. 11th, 2025 at Parkland Community Center

Dreaming of buying a home but not sure where to start? Join us for a free Homebuyer Education Class on Saturday, October 11th from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Parkland Community Center – 214 121st Street S. Parkland, WA 98444.

This class is sponsored by the Washington State Housing Finance Commission and taught by Michelle Garrett, Broker with Collison Realty LLC, and Kari Cornfield, Retail Branch Manager with Sierra Pacific Mortgage.

You’ll learn everything you need to know to confidently begin your homebuying journey, including:
Budgeting and improving your credit
How to qualify for a mortgage
Down payment assistance programs available in Washington
Working with your real estate agent and lender
What to expect from offer to closing

At the end of the class, participants will receive a WSHFC Certificate of Completion, which is required to qualify for many Washington State down payment assistance programs. This certificate is valid for two years and can help you access thousands of dollars in homebuyer assistance when you’re ready to purchase your home.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just looking to refresh your knowledge, this class will give you the tools, confidence, and resources to make homeownership possible.

To register for this free class please go to https://bit.ly/HomeBuyerClassParkland

Congratulations on taking the first step towards homeownership!

As a new homebuyer, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the right mortgage. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, I’m here to break it down into easy-to-digest chunks.

Let’s start with the basics. A mortgage is a loan you take out to buy a home. You pay it back over time with interest. The amount you can borrow depends on a few factors, including your income, credit score, and the value of the home you want to buy.

Now, let’s dive into the different types of mortgages.

Fixed-Rate Mortgages

A fixed-rate mortgage is a popular choice for many homebuyers because the interest rate stays the same throughout the life of the loan. This means your monthly payment will stay the same too. Fixed-rate mortgages are available in various terms, usually ranging from 10 to 30 years. They are a great option if you want predictable monthly payments and plan to stay in your home for a while.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgages

An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) has an interest rate that can change periodically. The initial rate is usually lower than a fixed-rate mortgage, but it can go up or down depending on market conditions. ARMs typically have a lower monthly payment in the beginning, but they can be riskier because you don’t know how much your payment will increase in the future. ARMs are a good option if you plan to move or refinance before the rate adjusts.

FHA Loans

FHA loans are backed by the Federal Housing Administration and require a lower down payment than most conventional loans. They are a popular choice for first-time homebuyers who don’t have a lot of money saved for a down payment. FHA loans have more lenient credit requirements than other types of loans, but they also require mortgage insurance, which can increase your monthly payment.

VA Loans

VA loans are available to veterans and their families and are backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. They require no down payment and have more lenient credit requirements than other types of loans. VA loans also have lower interest rates than most conventional loans, which can save you money over time.

USDA Loans

USDA loans are backed by the United States Department of Agriculture and are available to homebuyers in rural areas. They require no down payment and have low-interest rates. USDA loans are a great option if you’re looking to buy a home in a rural area and don’t have a lot of money saved for a down payment.

In conclusion, there are many types of mortgages available, each with its own pros and cons. As a new homebuyer, it’s important to do your research and choose the type of mortgage that best fits your needs and budget. Remember to consider your long-term goals, such as how long you plan to stay in your home and your overall financial picture. With the right mortgage, homeownership can be a dream come true for millennials and people of all ages. Good luck!

Moving can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be a costly one.

From hiring movers to buying packing supplies, the expenses can quickly add up. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you save some money with these easy-to-follow tips.

Start early

One of the best ways to save money on your move is to start planning early. This will give you time to research your options and find the best deals. You can also take advantage of sales and discounts on packing supplies and other moving essentials.

Declutter before you pack

Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter and get rid of items you no longer need. The less you have to pack, the less you’ll have to pay to move. Consider selling or donating items you no longer use, and only take with you what you truly need.

Get creative with packing supplies

You don’t have to spend a fortune on packing supplies. Get creative and use items you already have, such as towels, sheets, and clothing to wrap fragile items. You can also ask friends and family for boxes and packing materials, or check online for free boxes.

Compare moving quotes

When it comes to hiring movers, it’s important to get multiple quotes and compare them. Don’t just go with the first company you find. Take the time to research and read reviews to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Move during the off-season

Moving during the off-season, typically from October to April, can save you money. This is because demand for movers is lower during this time, and they may be more willing to negotiate on price.

Pack and unpack yourself

While hiring movers can be convenient, it can also be expensive. Consider packing and unpacking yourself to save money. You can also enlist the help of friends and family to make the process go quicker.

Sell items you no longer need

Another way to save money during a move is to sell items you no longer need. This can include furniture, clothing, and electronics. You can use sites like eBay and Craigslist to sell your items and make some extra cash.

Remember, moving doesn’t have to break the bank. By following these tips, you can save money and make your move a little less stressful. Remember to start early, declutter, get creative with packing supplies, compare quotes, move during the off-season, pack and unpack yourself, and sell items you no longer need. With a little planning and effort, you can save money and enjoy your new home.