Author: George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer | Page 4

Understanding Zoning and Building Permits in Wenatchee, WA

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

Zoning in Wenatchee: What You Need to Know Zoning laws in Wenatchee determine how land can be used — whether for residential, commercial, agricultural, or mixed-use purposes. These laws help maintain the city’s structure, safety, and environmental balance. Wenatchee is part of Chelan County, which handles regional land use policies. You can also find local … Continued

What Does “Clear Title” Mean When Selling a House in Washington?

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

What Is a Clear Title in Real Estate? “Clear title” means a property is free from any legal claims, disputes, or liens that could interfere with its sale. In Washington, a clear title is required for most real estate transactions, ensuring buyers receive uncontested ownership. A clear title has: Why Clear Title Matters When Selling … Continued

Understanding Washington’s Seller Disclosure Form (Form 17)

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

What Is Form 17 in Washington Real Estate? Form 17 is a Seller Disclosure Statement required under Washington law when selling most residential properties. It outlines known issues with the property and is designed to protect buyers and sellers by improving transparency during a transaction. The form is required by RCW 64.06, and covers topics … Continued

Avoiding Foreclosure in Washington State: What Homeowners Can Do

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

Foreclosure in Washington: A Fast Timeline Foreclosure is the legal process of a mortgage lender reclaiming your home after missed payments. In Washington, this can happen non-judicially — meaning lenders don’t even need to go to court. Once you’ve missed 3–4 months of payments, you may receive a: From there, the sale date can move … Continued

Selling a Washington Home with Code Violations: What You Need to Know

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

Can You Sell a House with Code Violations in Washington? Yes — but it depends on the severity of the issues and your buyer. In Washington, local code enforcement officers issue violations when homes fail to meet basic safety, health, or building standards. This could involve: Counties like King County, Pierce County, and Spokane County … Continued

Do You Need a Permit to Sell a House in Washington State?

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

Do You Really Need a Permit to Sell a House in Washington? Short answer: you don’t need a permit to sell your house, but you may need one for certain repairs or improvements before the sale. And if you (or a previous owner) did work without a permit, it could complicate the transaction. Let’s break … Continued

What Happens When a House Sits Vacant in Washington State?

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

The Hidden Risks of Vacant Properties in Washington If your property in Washington State is sitting vacant, you’re sitting on more than just empty square footage — you’re holding a legal and financial time bomb. Unoccupied homes in cities like Spokane, Everett, Tacoma, and Yakima face a host of dangers: Legal Liability: What Washington Homeowners … Continued

Understanding Squatter Rights and Laws in Washington State

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

What Are Squatter Rights in Washington State? In Washington, squatters can sometimes gain rights to a property if they occupy it long enough and meet certain legal conditions. This is known as adverse possession — a controversial but very real legal pathway. Washington homeowners are often shocked to learn that squatters can claim legal residency … Continued

Understanding Tax Liens and How They Impact Washington Homeowners

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

What Is a Tax Lien in Washington? A tax lien is a legal claim filed by the government when you owe property taxes or income taxes. In Washington, this lien is attached to your real property, which can block you from refinancing or selling the home until the debt is cleared. This can happen through: … Continued

Understanding Squatter Rights and Property Risks in Washington State

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

What Are Squatter Rights in Washington State? In Washington, squatters may gain legal rights to a property under certain conditions through adverse possession — a legal process where long-term unauthorized occupants can claim ownership. Read the full law here:👉 Washington Squatters Rights👉 RCW 7.28 – Adverse Possession To establish a legal claim, squatters must typically: … Continued

Understanding Liens in Washington State Real Estate

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

What Is a Lien in Washington Real Estate? A lien is a legal claim against a property for unpaid debt. In Washington State, liens must be satisfied before you can sell your home with a clear title. If you’re selling with an outstanding lien, expect delays — or even a blocked closing. Learn more about … Continued

Understanding Property Titles and Clouds on Title in Washington

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

What Is a Property Title in Washington? A property title is your legal proof of ownership in Washington. It allows you to transfer or sell a property. Titles in Washington are governed by the principles of real property law, and a clean, or “clear,” title is essential for closing a sale. If your title has … Continued

Washington Real Estate Laws Every Home Seller Should Know

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

Know the Law Before You Sell in Washington State Whether you’re in Spokane, Everett, or Walla Walla, understanding Washington real estate law can make or break your home sale. Selling a property isn’t just about listing it — you’re legally responsible for certain disclosures, liens, and transfer steps under Washington RCW. 1. Seller Disclosure Laws … Continued

Understanding Code Violations When Selling a House in Washington

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

What Are Code Violations in Real Estate? A code violation occurs when a property does not meet local safety, construction, or health standards. In Washington, cities like Spokane and Tacoma enforce these rules to ensure homes are safe and habitable. Common violations include: Can You Sell a House with Code Violations in Washington? Yes — … Continued

Squatter Laws in Washington State: What Homeowners Should Know

July 5, 2025

By George Anderson REI Branded Home Buyer

Squatter Rights in Washington State In Washington, squatters can establish legal rights to a property under certain conditions. According to Washington squatter laws, individuals who occupy a home without the owner’s permission may claim adverse possession after a specific time period — typically 10 years of continuous occupation. Learn more about squatters and how property … Continued