James R. Shute

Join me today as we remember, honor, and celebrate the lives of all the men and women who served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice. May we never forget.

A lot of buyers are still waiting for the “perfect” interest rate before making a move. But over the last few years, we’ve seen that waiting often means paying more for the same home later.

The reality is: the right time to buy isn’t about perfectly timing the market — it’s about finding the right home, with a payment that makes sense for your life and long-term goals.

Rates can change. Prices can change. But the right home in the right location can create stability, equity, and opportunity over time.

If you’ve been wondering whether now is the right time to buy, let’s talk through the numbers and your options so you can make the best decision for you — not just the headlines. 📩🏡

Mortgage rates ticked up this week — the 30-year fixed averaged 6.30%, up 0.07% from last week's 6.23%, but still down 0.46% from a year ago.

The week-over-week move is small. The year-over-year picture is what matters: on a $700,000 home, today's rate trims roughly $185 from the monthly payment compared to last spring, and saves about $66,000 over the life of the loan.

A single week's tick higher isn't a trend — and it isn't a reason to wait. Rates aren't the whole picture either. Inventory, your timeline, and the right house still matter more.

If you're weighing a move in Western Washington this spring, happy to walk through what these numbers mean for your specific situation.

📊 Source: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey, April 30, 2026

So excited for my buyers who are officially under contract on this beautiful Sammamish home! We’ve been searching together since January in a market where the good homes are going fast and competition has been fierce. After staying patient, persistent, and strategic, we won in multiple offers and got them the perfect place just in time as their lease was about to run out.

I couldn’t be happier for them and so grateful they trusted me through every step of the journey. In this market, having the right plan and the right advocate matters.

If you’re thinking about buying and wondering how to compete, I’d love to help you make it happen too!

Another one pending ✔️

This Sammamish beauty is officially under contract!
Grateful for great clients and smooth deals 🙏

Who’s next?