Anthony Richard - South Sound & JBLM Realtor

06/25/2026

⚠️Here’s how I respond to each individual asking whether or not they should consider buying….

First question: Are currently living comfortably in your rental status?

ANSWER 1: Not really. Rental prices are hiking and we are barely squeaking by. Maybe we should consider something with a more stable monthly.

Solution: You may not be ready to buy yet. If annual set hikes are an issue at the moment, try that PLUS random maintenance you’re responsible for at any given point, at any given cost.
Consider finding ways to increase your wage, put some of that in savings for a downpayment, and focus on credit improvement. This combination should both serve as a present hedge, and prepare you for your near future when in a situation with more leverage.

ANSWER 2: Affordability isn’t really a problem. I don’t mind renting. I just want to know if my money is better spent in real estate property.

Solution: It sounds like you’re in position buy, but you don’t NEED to buy. It’s not to relieve any current financial burdens, rather build on where you are.
To this, you have to know your lifestyle; do you frequently travel? Are you ok with being tied to one place? Are you ok with being a landlord at some point? Will this be a combination of investment and final home over time?
You’re in a position where you have options. It’s just a matter of sorting your current and future lifestyle.

ANSWER 3: I’m renting easy. I’m just ready to be in a place to call my own at this point. I just want to make the right decision in where I buy, IF it’s the right time to buy.

Solution: It sounds like you are in fact, both in position and ready to buy. We just have to figure out your needs and preferences. You’re at the point where you just need real estate professional to help you navigate through the process, figure out which market works best for you, then what features you prefer in your home and neighborhood.
So pretty much….you’re ready to buy!!

As you can see, this is how nuanced that question is. BUT….there is a unique path for you to get to where you want to be 🏡

06/19/2026

“This HOA is like another car payment.”

Yep, purty much.

06/19/2026

🙋‍♂️🙋‍♀️ “So what’s wrong with this one?”

That’s the FIRST question my buyer clients ask when viewing a home on the MLS. This information is both for sellers and clients, but sellers may really benefit from this.

When buyers see a home sitting on the market longer than others, they start asking questions. If houses on average in a market are pending in 10 days, and they see a home on the market for 17 days in that same neighborhood, their Spidey senses start tingling.

This is a HUGE financial decision, and they don’t want to own a money pit. So…..they ask; “what’s wrong with this one?”

As a seller, this is why it’s critical to understand your selling window; that first week on the market is THE most crucial. Anything after that, you start getting questions, investor low balls, and tire kickers.

In other words, you lose out on money💰

06/19/2026

🏡 RESALE.
That should be on your mind as a home buyer. What we tend to do, especially as first time homebuyers, is ONLY look for what we desire w/o thinking of what other buyers would want.

You’re probably thinking, “who cares, I’M the one buying this home.” True, and you’ll want to make sure you truly love it, BUT…..

Think of it this way. 10 years down the road, family and career dynamics have changed, and now it’s time to sell this very home. That pool you liked? The carpet that you preferred? The solar panels that were a selling point to you?

Those can easily be deal breakers for another buyer. And in the case of the solar panels, those can be like taking on a second loan, a financial burden some buyers can’t afford, nor care to pay for.

If it’s truly your forever home and you know it, you don’t really have to worry too much about this; I just suggest researching and also adding features to the property that will raise its market value.

But to those who are more periodic nomads looking for a starter, try and consider the home’s resale value when make a decision 🔑

06/19/2026

🔑When choosing your Realtor, it works in your favor to have a general understanding of the homebuying process, from pre-approval to closing. Have an idea of what to expect POST closing; your taxes and insurance (which WILL rise despite the myth that your mortgage remains stagnant for the duration of the loan).
Understand how much maintenance will cost, especially on pre-1980 and post 2020 new construction.
73% of first time homebuyers since 2020 have buyer’s remorse. They were told, “marry the home, date the rate.” They were FOMO’d into historically low rates, not understanding the property taxes will be rising exponentially due to overpaying driving up market value.
Before signing an exclusive agreement, ask that Realtor some questions you already know the answer to and see how they respond. Their response will give you an idea on whether or not to work with and trust them in your home buying process. Some of this stuff you can do, you just have a job and family to focus on, hence why a competent Realtor would make your life easier.

📥 Questions? Need an agent or lender referral? Inbox me or leave a comment and I’ll get you squared away 🏡

06/16/2026

You really can have a lien placed on your home if you’re deployed and unable to pay that HOA fee. PLEASE be mindful of your choice. Understand all the fees and assessments an HOA demands before deciding to put in an offer.

06/05/2026

🇺🇸 5 Resources You Can Get at the JBLM Visitor Center 🇺🇸

📍 JBLM Visitor Center
5280 Pendleton Ave
Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA 98433

1️⃣ Base Access Information
Need a visitor pass or bringing family onto base? The Visitor Center can help explain access requirements and procedures.

2️⃣ Directions & Base Maps
New to JBLM? Pick up maps and get guidance on finding key locations like your unit, housing office, medical facilities, and the Exchange.

3️⃣ PCS & Relocation Assistance
The Visitor Center can point newcomers toward housing resources, newcomer briefings, and relocation support programs.

4️⃣ Community Resource Referrals
Need help finding childcare, schools, employment assistance, or family support services? The Visitor Center can connect you with the right office.

5️⃣ General JBLM Information
Whether you're looking for gate information, operating hours, or base services, the Visitor Center is often the best first stop for answers.

💬 Have you used the Visitor Center before? What resource was most helpful during your move to JBLM?

03/17/2026