Buying a JBLM Area Home in the Spring Summer of 2025

Know when to buy and how to get ready

FOR military families seeking to purchase a home in the Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM) area, the following will help you understand when to buy and how to prepare for any market outcome. With a new administration and a currently unpredictable direction for housing in 2025, families and veterans need to monitor several factors, including market conditions, the upcoming Spring/Summer area trends, and your personal financial situation.

Under the right conditions you also must be prepared to act quickly in what is traditionally a competitive time of the year as peak numbers of military transition in and out of JBLM. Securing a real estate agent with knowledge of the permanent change of station (PCS) process, Veteran needs and the JBLM area is critical to your success. There will be market volatility and unpredictability as 2025 unfolds, so here are some key indicators to keep on your radar and subsequent actions to take in certain situations.

The Right JBLM Area Market Conditions to buy

All indicators at present point to the first few months of 2025 being a buyer’s market featuring the lowest housing prices of the year combined with reduced competition among homebuyers. Housing supply will be lower but there will be gems to be found. A new administration and uncertain policies/initiatives has the market running contrary to typical seasonal home prices which normally rise as summer approaches.

For previous homeowners with prior home equity, this buyer’s market will be an ideal period to secure prime property in one of the hottest housing markets in the state. A smaller mortgage may be affordable even with higher interest rates as your plan would be to refinance when rates drop.

If mortgage interest rates remain the same or trend higher, families without equity may need to rent short term and identify – based on their financial situation – the right time to enter the market. Many families accept a slightly higher interest rate predicting that within a year or two rates will drop and a streamline refinancing of the VA loan will bring their monthly payments down. Often the home sale savings in a buyer’s market will more than offset a year or two of higher mortgage interest. Securing a military-knowledgeable real estate agent early will provide you with your purchasing power and the right timing.

If mortgage rates dip or trend downward, you need to be first to market as a surge of buyers with higher purchasing power will drive housing prices up. Acting early will give you the best chance for a good purchase price before competition heats things up. Lower interest rates reduce borrowing costs, making homes more affordable. To monitor, keep an eye on Federal Reserve announcements and economic indicators. Your real estate agent can also do the heavy lifting for you here.

Outmaneuvering Competition This Spring and Summer

If market conditions improve, buying a house in the spring and summer can be an exciting but competitive time, as transitions at JBLM tend to see an increase in home-buying activity. Here are some best practices to make the most of this peak home-buying season:

Get financially prepared

That starts with your stable employment and housing allowance: A secure job plus steady income signals to lenders you can handle mortgage payments and other expenses. Improve stability by building an emergency fund and avoid major job changes during the buying process.

Work on building a Good Credit Score: A higher credit score can help you secure a better mortgage rate and terms. To get there pay bills on time, reduce debt, and avoid new credit applications

When it’s time to enter the market, get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage: This shows sellers that you are a serious buyer and can speed up the buying process. VA Home Loans are possible with no downpayment however having one can lower monthly payments and result in better loan terms.

Always know Your Budget: Understand your financial limits and stick to them to avoid overextending yourself. Ensure you have your finances in order to make a strong offer.

Research and Monitor the Market as Spring Approaches

Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local market trends and inventory levels. Use Online Tools: Utilize real estate websites and apps to track new listings and price changes. Also attend open houses to get a feel for what is available and how much homes are selling for. The bottom of this blog features suggested online resources and a good realtor can work with you early to better forecast changing conditions. Considering your lifestyle needs, family plans and long-term goals, check out the neighborhoods surrounding JBLM using our area map and individual community analysis.

Act Quickly When the Time Comes: Select a real estate agent in advance and be ready to make an Offer. In a competitive market, desirable homes can sell quickly, so be prepared to act fast. And let a quality Real Estate Agent do the heavy lifting for you. An experienced agent can help you navigate the market, submit offers quickly, and negotiate on your behalf.

Make Competitive Offers: While you don’t want to overpay, a strong initial offer can make you stand out. Consider Using Escalation Clauses. In the case of multiple offers, an escalation clause can automatically increase your offer up to a certain limit. Be Flexible with Contingencies. If possible, reduce the number of contingencies in your offer to make it more attractive to sellers.

ALWAYS Conduct Thorough Inspections: Ensure your realtor uses a professional inspector: Even in a competitive market, don’t skip the home inspection to uncover potential issues. Your realtor will show you how to use the inspection report to negotiate any necessary repairs or price reductions.

Get ready to be Patient and Persistent: Stay Calm, the home-buying process can be stressful, especially in a competitive market. Stay patient, keep looking and avoid the temptation to settle. While it may be tempting to rush, make sure the home you choose meets your needs and is a good investment.

Leverage Washington’s Spring and Summer Benefits: Use the longer daylight hours to view more properties and attend open houses after work. And if you can, take advantage of School Breaks: If you have children, moving during summer vacation can make the transition easier.

By following these best practices, you can navigate the busy spring and summer home-buying season with confidence and find the perfect home. If you need more tips or have specific questions, feel free to ask!

Buying a JBLM Area Home in the Spring Summer of 2025

Know when to buy and how to get ready

The Right JBLM Area Market Conditions to buy

Outmaneuvering Competition This Spring and Summer

Other Reading and Resources Your Realtor Can Help You With

Categories