Buying a condo in Bellevue

The condo buying process, step by step

1. Get pre-approved, with condos in mind

   Lenders review the building as well as the buyer. Things like owner-occupancy, reserves, insurance, and pending litigation can affect which loan programs are available, so tell your lender early that you're shopping for a condo.

2. Shortlist buildings before units

   Decide which buildings fit your lifestyle and budget, including dues, before falling for a specific unit. It makes every tour more productive.

3. Tour with the checklist

   Look past finishes: check the parking, storage, common areas, noise, light, and how the building is maintained.

4. Write a strong, well-protected offer

   We'll talk through price, terms, and the contingencies that make sense, including time to review the association documents.

5. Review the resale certificate

   In Washington, sellers generally provide a resale certificate with key association information: dues, assessments, budget, reserves, insurance, and more. Read it closely and ask questions before your review period ends.

6. Inspect, then close

   A unit inspection still matters in a condo: systems, windows, appliances, and signs of water intrusion. Then it's on to final walk-through and keys.

Documents worth a careful read

For a full list of questions to bring to these documents, see HOA questions to ask before you make an offer.

• Declaration, bylaws, and rules
• Current budget and financials
• Reserve study
• Board meeting minutes
• Insurance summary
• Disclosures of assessments or litigation

This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. For legal questions about association documents, consult a Washington real estate attorney.

Common buyer questions