How to Search for a Home
Searching for a home online can be exciting—but also overwhelming. With thousands of listings across Kirkland, the Eastside, Seattle, and the Greater Puget Sound, it’s hard to know where to start or which information you can trust. I guide buyers through this process every week, and the truth is: the most effective home search is a blend of smart online research, in-person touring, and clear strategy.
Here’s how to search for a home in a way that actually helps you find the right one—faster and with far less stress.
1. Begin With Your Non-Negotiables
Before browsing listings, identify your essentials:
home type (condo, townhome, single-family)
number of bedrooms/bathrooms
parking needs
location preferences
price range
This helps narrow your search—but still leaves room for discovery.
2. Explore Neighborhoods Early
Each area offers something different:
Kirkland: walkability, waterfront access, community feel
Bellevue: schools, amenities, business centers
Redmond: parks, tech proximity
Woodinville: wineries, space
Seattle neighborhoods: craftsman homes, culture, diversity
Spend time driving, walking, or grabbing coffee in areas that interest you.
3. Use Online Platforms Strategically
Zillow, Redfin, and Windermere are great tools—but they can be inconsistent. Use them to:
get a sense of price ranges
save potential listings
track neighborhood patterns
see photos and floor plans
But don’t rely on them for timing or final values.
4. Set Up Customized Searches
I can set up personalized home searches with:
real-time alerts
precise filters
off-market insights
coming-soon listings
These are more accurate than national search sites and often faster.
5. Pay Attention to Market Trends
When searching, look for patterns such as:
how long homes stay on the market
typical price ranges
common features in your budget
seasonality trends on the Eastside and in Seattle
This helps you recognize value when you see it.
4. Search With Both Logic and Openness
Start with your criteria—but stay open to possibilities. Some of my clients fall in love with homes or neighborhoods they didn’t expect.
7. Tour Homes in Person
Photos tell part of the story.
Tours tell the rest.
Walking through homes helps you understand:
layout
flow
natural light
street presence
noise
neighborhood feel
I arrange tours and help you evaluate each option.
8. Don’t Overlook Opportunities
Some listings don’t photograph well but are amazing in person. On the Eastside especially, many great homes get overlooked online.
9. Keep Notes Along the Way
After touring multiple homes, everything can blend together.
Take notes on:
what you liked
what you didn’t
neighborhood impressions
deal-breakers
This helps clarify your direction quickly.
10. Stay Connected With Your Agent (Me!)
A successful home search is a partnership.
I help you avoid pitfalls, interpret listings, understand value, and focus on the homes that genuinely align with your goals.
FAQ
Should I look online before meeting with you?
You can, but you don’t have to. I can help you focus your search from the start.
Are online home values accurate?
They can be helpful, but not always precise. I provide local data and real context.
What if I see a home I like online?
Send it to me! I’ll look into it, run comps, and arrange a tour if you’d like.
If you're thinking about buying a home in Kirkland, on the Eastside, or anywhere in the Greater Puget Sound, I’m here to help.
📞 Call or Text Me
📧 Email Me
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