Welcome to Nick Briggs Realty - Your Trusted Real Estate Agent in Spokane

What brings you here today?

I'm Buying

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About

My name is Nick Briggs

As a lifelong Spokane resident, I understand the unique charm of this city. My passion for real estate stems from a desire to help others build their lives here. With years of customer service experience and a Business Administration degree from Gonzaga University, I am well-equipped to guide, manage, and negotiate to help you achieve your real estate goals.

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WHAT CLIENTS SAY

Christina (Seller)

Nick was amazing! he was always available and very knowledgeable. Thank you Nick for helping us make our home dreams come true!!

Sabrina (Buyer)

I had the pleasure of working with Nick while searching for a house and I would highly recommend him to those in search of a home. He is knowledgeable within the field and if he doesn't know an answer, he would resource with others and get back to me quickly. He is punctual and completed offers in a timely manner. Lastly, he is very respectful, displays proper social etiquette and is a great team player, as he is mindful of those around him.

Theresa (Seller)

Nick really put in the work to help get our house sold. He even stepped up and helped out manually with some necessary updates. His attention to detail, communication, and willingness to help to get this house ready to sell was amazing. I would absolutely recommend Nick for any real estate needs

Ed (Buyer)

Nick Briggs has been sharp, attentive, tireless, detailed, and delightful to work with. He rates highly in our recommendation list of locally born and bred Spokane Real Estate stars.

Anne (Seller)

Nick has done an amazing job for us! He is smart, listened to our needs and provided sound advice. I would recommend Nick to anyone who needs a Realtor.

How can I make a competitive offer on a home in Spokane?

To make a competitive offer on a home in Spokane, offer a fair price based on recent comparable sales, get pre-approved for a mortgage, and consider limiting contingencies to make your offer more attractive to sellers.
How does Spokane's cost of living compare to other cities in Washington?

Spokane’s cost of living is generally lower than Seattle or Bellevue, making it an attractive option for many buyers.
Is Spokane a good place for remote workers to buy a home?

Yes, Spokane is an excellent place for remote workers to buy a home due to its affordable housing, high quality of life, and strong community amenities.
Is a home inspection necessary before purchasing a home in Spokane?

While not required, a home inspection is essential before purchasing a home in Spokane to identify any potential issues and ensure the property is in good condition.
Do I need a real estate agent to buy a house in Spokane?

While not required, having a real estate agent can help you navigate the process, find the best deals, and negotiate on your behalf.
What credit score is needed to buy a home in Spokane?

Generally, a credit score of 620 is the minimum requirement for most conventional loans, while FHA loans may accept scores as low as 580.
How much down payment is required to buy a home in Spokane?

The standard down payment is 20%, but there are programs available with down payments as low as 3-5%, depending on the loan type.
How competitive is the housing market in Spokane?

The market in Spokane can be competitive, especially during peak seasons. Homes often receive multiple offers when the conditions favor sellers, so be prepared to act quickly.
Is flood insurance required in Spokane?

Flood insurance is only required if the home is in a designated flood zone. Spokane generally has minimal flood risk.
What are the best neighborhoods to buy a home in Spokane?

Kendall Yards, South Hill, and the North Side are some of Spokane’s most popular neighborhoods for home buyers.
Can I buy a home in Spokane without a down payment?

Some loan programs, like VA loans, offer zero down payment options. USDA loans also provide no-down-payment opportunities for certain rural areas near Spokane.
Can I buy a foreclosure in Spokane?

Yes, foreclosures are available, often at a discount, but they may require additional repairs and paperwork.
How long does it take to buy a house in Spokane?

The process usually takes 30-60 days from offer acceptance to closing, depending on financing and contingencies.
Can I back out of buying a home in Spokane?

You can back out if certain contingencies aren’t met, but there may be financial penalties such as losing earnest money.
What is the property tax rate in Spokane, WA?

Spokane’s property tax rate is approximately 1.15% of the assessed value of the property.
How much should I budget for home maintenance in Spokane?

Budget around 1-3% of the home’s value annually for maintenance, especially with Spokane’s seasonal weather changes.
What are closing costs for buyers in Spokane?

Closing costs in Spokane typically range from 2-5% of the home’s purchase price. These include fees for appraisals, inspections, and loan origination.
What should I know before buying a house in Spokane?

Be aware of property taxes, home maintenance, neighborhood amenities, and the condition of the home, including potential winter maintenance needs.
What types of homes are available in Spokane?

Spokane has a mix of single-family homes, condos, unique architectural homes, townhomes, and some new construction properties.
How do I find a good lender in Spokane?

Start by asking your real estate agent, family, or friends for recommendations, or research local banks and credit unions.
What is the average home price in Spokane, WA?

The average home price in Spokane is around $450,000, but it can vary based on the neighborhood and market trends.
What is earnest money, and how much should I offer in Spokane?

Earnest money is a deposit showing the buyer’s good faith. In Spokane, this is typically 1% of the offer price.
How do Spokane winters affect home buying?

Winter weather can impact your home search due to snow and ice. Be sure to assess heating systems and roof conditions during inspections.
Can I buy a home in Spokane if I have bad credit?

It may be more challenging, but you can explore FHA loans or work with credit improvement programs to qualify.
Is it better to buy or rent in Spokane?

Buying may be better if you plan to stay long-term and want to build equity, while renting provides more flexibility.
Can I negotiate home prices in Spokane?

Yes, home prices are often negotiable, but in a competitive market, offering full price or above may be necessary.
What inspections are common when buying a home in Spokane?

A general home inspection, pest inspection, and sometimes a sewer scope inspection are common in Spokane.
What is an appraisal, and is it required in Spokane?

An appraisal is an assessment of the home’s value, and it is usually required by lenders to ensure the property is worth the loan amount.
Are there first-time home buyer programs in Spokane?

Yes, lenders offer several first-time home buyer programs, including down payment assistance through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission.
What is the role of title insurance in Spokane home buying?

Title insurance protects against potential legal issues with the property’s title and is typically required by lenders.
Is Spokane a good place to buy a home?

Yes, Spokane is a desirable place to buy a home due to its lower cost of living, connection to nature and vibrant community.
What are the steps to buying a house?

Buying a house involves several key steps, including getting pre-approved for a mortgage, finding a real estate agent, searching for properties, making an offer, getting a home inspection, and closing the deal.
What’s the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved for a mortgage?

Pre-qualification is an estimate of what you can borrow, while pre-approval is a more formal process involving a credit check and financial verification.
How can I determine if a home is fairly priced in Spokane?

Your real estate agent can provide comparable sales (comps) to determine if the asking price is fair.
How do I qualify for a mortgage in Spokane?

To qualify for a mortgage in Spokane, you'll need a good credit score, a stable income, and a manageable debt-to-income ratio. It's best to consult with a lender to understand your specific requirements.
What does a buyer's market mean for sellers?

In a buyer's market, there are more homes than buyers, so expect longer listing times and potential price reductions.
What is the optimal time to sell a home in Spokane?

The optimal time to sell a home in Spokane is usually during the spring and early summer months, from April to June, when buyer demand is at its peak.
How should I price my home for the Spokane market?

Price your home competitively based on recent sales of similar properties in your area and work with a local realtor to determine the best price strategy.
Why is curb appeal important when selling a home in Spokane?

Curb appeal is important when selling a home in Spokane because buyers highly value well-maintained homes, particularly during the spring and summer months.
Are there environmental concerns in Spokane that buyers care about?

Radon is common in the Spokane area, and buyers may request a radon test. Consider conducting a test beforehand to address concerns.
What are the pros and cons of selling a home without an agent?

Pros include saving on possible commission; cons include fewer marketing resources, less negotiation power, and legal risks.
How can I sell my home quickly?

Price it competitively, ensure it is in good condition, and market it effectively with high-quality photos and a strong online presence.
Are there incentives for homebuyers in Spokane I should be aware of?

Some buyers might be interested in down payment assistance programs offered by the Washington State Housing Finance Commission, which can help attract first-time buyers.
How should I stage my Spokane home to appeal to buyers?

Highlight Spokane’s lifestyle by creating comfortable outdoor spaces, declutter the interior, and make the home feel bright and airy to appeal to buyers.
How can I prepare my home for showings?

Clean thoroughly, declutter, remove personal items, make necessary repairs, and consider staging for maximum appeal.
What documents do I need to sell my house in Spokane?

You’ll need the deed, property disclosures, HOA documents (if applicable), and any permits for recent work. Your agent can guide you through this process.
What are the first steps to take when selling a home?

Start by finding a qualified real estate agent, setting a competitive price, and preparing your home for showings by decluttering and staging.
How long does it take to sell a home on average?

On average, it takes 30-60 days to sell a home, though this can vary greatly depending on market conditions and location.
Should I offer concessions to buyers?

Offering concessions, such as closing cost assistance, can help attract buyers, especially in a slow market or if your home needs repairs.
What are common contingencies Spokane buyers request?

Inspection and financing contingencies are common. You might also encounter contingencies for the buyer selling their current home.
How does curb appeal impact home sales?

Curb appeal creates a strong first impression. Simple improvements like landscaping, painting the front door, and adding flowers can boost interest.
Should I sell my home before buying a new one?

Selling first can help avoid juggling two mortgages, but it depends on your financial situation. You may also consider a lease-back option.
What are common repairs sellers make before listing a home?

Common repairs include fixing leaky faucets, patching holes in walls, replacing broken tiles, and ensuring all appliances work.
Are open houses effective in Spokane?

Open houses can be effective in Spokane, particularly in high-demand areas, as they attract interested buyers and create competition.
What is the average age of homes in Spokane?

Many homes in Spokane were built between the 1950s and 1980s, but there are also older historic homes and newer developments.
Can I sell my home without a real estate agent?

Yes, selling without an agent, known as FSBO (For Sale By Owner), is possible but can be challenging without market knowledge or negotiation skills.
How do I find open houses in Spokane?

Check local real estate websites, social media, or ask your agent for information on upcoming open houses.
Should I hire a professional photographer for my Spokane listing?

Yes, professional photos can make your home stand out online and attract more buyers in the competitive Spokane market.
What does a seller's market mean for sellers?

In a seller's market, there are more buyers than homes, giving you more leverage, potentially resulting in multiple offers and higher prices.
How does the appraisal affect the sale of my home?

If the appraisal comes in lower than the agreed price, the buyer's lender may not approve the loan, potentially leading to renegotiations or cancellation.
Should I include appliances in the sale of my Spokane home?

Including appliances like the refrigerator, washer, and dryer can be an attractive incentive for buyers and help close the sale faster.
How important is home staging in the selling process?

Staging can significantly impact how quickly your home sells and for how much, as it helps buyers visualize the space as their future home.
Is it worth offering a home warranty in Spokane?

Offering a home warranty can make buyers feel more secure, especially for older homes, and may lead to a quicker sale.
Can I sell a Spokane home "as-is"?

Yes, but selling "as-is" might result in a lower sale price. Be transparent with disclosures to avoid legal issues later.
How can I market my Spokane home effectively?

Utilize online listings, social media, virtual tours, and local networks. Work with an agent who knows the Spokane market well.
Should I make upgrades before selling my home in Spokane?

Simple upgrades like fresh paint, updated fixtures, and landscaping can increase your home’s appeal without overinvesting.
Are there specific disclosures I need to provide in Spokane?

Sellers in Spokane must provide disclosures about known defects, lead-based paint (if built before 1978), and other issues as required by Washington law.
What closing costs are involved when selling a home in Spokane?

Sellers can pay real estate agent commissions, title insurance, escrow fees, and sometimes a portion of the buyer's closing costs depending on the situation.