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Archive

Surprise CostsSurprise Costs

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Unexpected cost: The tree deposit you didn't see coming

Bellevue’s Landscape Maintenance Assurance Device aka “Are Your Trees Still Alive?” fee makes sure you don’t kill your landscaping too fast.

Wilson L

Structural EngineerStructural Engineer

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Structural decisions that actually matter

Avoid costly revisions and plan your home's structural design and systems right from the start.

Wilson L

GuideGuide

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Before you start working with an architect, do this stuff first

What to do before working with an architect - survey, trees, dirt, budget. Skip these and you’re not ready to design.

Wilson L

GuideGuide

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Working with an architect: How to design a custom home that works

A quick and practical guide to working with an architect to design a custom home that fits your life and stays on budget

Wilson L

ArchitectArchitect

Choosing an architect? Here's what you need to know.

Architects can make or break your build. Find one who gets your vision and goals so you don’t end up with $100k floating stairs you never wanted.

Wilson L

RegulationsRegulations

Caveat emptor: Why you need to beware when buying WA real estate

Buying Washington real estate? Avoid hidden defect traps, Form 17 (RCW 64.06.020) pitfalls and valuable tips to dodge six figure surprises.

Wilson L

HacksHacks

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Get full architectural plans for free. It's easier than you think.

Architectural plans are public records in Seattle’s Eastside. Access free blueprints and site plans in minutes before you buy, build, or remodel.

Wilson L

RegulationsRegulations

From lot to lotta paperwork: Jumping the Eastside permit hurdles

Eastside custom home permits take 6-12 months to prep with a team of consultants. Add 3-6 months for the city's blessing before you break ground.

Wilson L

GuideGuide

So you wanna buy land and build a house? Read this first.

Buying land to build on Seattle’s Eastside? Price and location matter, but these often overlooked factors can wreck your budget and your dreams.

Wilson L

HacksHacks

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How to get $60K to clean oil tank contamination in Washington

Got an oil tank? Washington's PLIA covers up to $60K toward cleanup costs, but you must transfer coverage within 180 days. Deadline July 1, 2025.

Wilson L

So you wanna build a custom home? Here’s what no one tells you

I bought a teardown on Seattle’s Eastside and will be sharing surprise costs, permit hurdles and learnings from my custom home build journey.

Wilson L