Latest Blogs & Local Insights

Looking for the latest insights on real estate, local hotspots, and outdoor adventures in Vancouver, WA, and Portland, OR? You’re in the right place! Check out our latest blog posts covering everything from market trends to the best places to grab a bowl of soup on a rainy day.

  • 3 Reasons to Get Pre-Approved Before Buying a Home in Vancouver WA

    3 Reasons to Get Pre-Approved Before Buying a Home in Vancouver WA,Cassandra Marks

      3 Reasons to Get Pre-Approved Before Buying a Home in Vancouver WA Why Smart Buyers Start with Pre-Approval by Cassandra Marks You've been scrolling through real estate listings, imagining yourself in that beautiful kitchen or relaxing in that spacious backyard. The excitement of house hunting is

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  • Mortgage Rates in 2026: Should You Buy Now or Wait?

    Mortgage Rates in 2026: Should You Buy Now or Wait?,Cassandra Marks

      Mortgage Rates in 2026: Should You Buy Now or Wait? Your guide to making the right decision in Vancouver, Washington's housing market If you've been watching the Vancouver, Washington housing market from the sidelines, wondering when the "right time" to buy will be, you're not alone. As we navigat

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  • Successful Final Walkthrough Checklist: Don’t Skip These Critical Items

    Successful Final Walkthrough Checklist: Don’t Skip These Critical Items,Cassandra Marks

    Successful Final Walkthrough Checklist: Don’t Skip These Critical Items The Most Important Walk You'll Ever Take You’ve done it! The offer was accepted, the inspection is complete, the loan is approved, and the movers are packing up your life. You’re on the doorstep of closing on your new home in Va

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  • Camas vs Washougal: Why I Would Choose Washougal Over Camas In The Next 10 Years

    Camas vs Washougal: Why I Would Choose Washougal Over Camas In The Next 10 Years,Cassandra Marks

    Camas vs Washougal: Why I Would Choose Washougal Over Camas In The Next 10 Years If you’re exploring homes in Clark County, Washington, you’ve probably noticed the buzz around Camas and Washougal real estate. Both cities offer scenic Columbia River views, vibrant communities, and quick access to Van

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  • How to Plan a Smooth Relocation to Vancouver, Washington (2025 Guide)

    How to Plan a Smooth Relocation to Vancouver, Washington (2025 Guide),Cassandra Marks

    How to Plan a Smooth Relocation to Vancouver, Washington (2025 Guide) If you’ve been wondering that lately, you’re not alone. Tucked just north of the Columbia River, Vancouver, Washington USA has become one of the most sought-after places to live in the Pacific Northwest. With its unbeatable mix of

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  • How Interest Rates Affect Your Home Buying Power in Vancouver Washington

    How Interest Rates Affect Your Home Buying Power in Vancouver Washington,Cassandra Marks

    How Interest Rates Affect Your Home Buying Power in Vancouver Washington Interest rates have a significant effect on home buying power in Vancouver, Washington. When interest rates rise, monthly mortgage payments increase, which reduces the amount of home a buyer can afford. For example, a 1% increa

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  • Is It Worth Leaving the Bay Area? Cost of Living Comparison and Lifestyle Shifts

    Is It Worth Leaving the Bay Area? Cost of Living Comparison and Lifestyle Shifts,Cassandra Marks

    Is It Worth Leaving the Bay Area? Compare Costs, Lifestyle & Opportunities in Vancouver, WA If you’re wondering “Is it worth leaving the Bay Area?” — you’re not alone. With skyrocketing housing costs, long commutes, and a growing desire for balance, many families, professionals, and retirees are exp

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  • How to Choose the Right Neighborhood in Vancouver, WA

    How to Choose the Right Neighborhood in Vancouver, WA,Cassandra Marks

    How to Choose the Right Neighborhood in Vancouver, WA Choosing a new home isn’t just about square footage or curb appeal—it’s about finding a place that fits your lifestyle, values, and everyday needs. Whether you're relocating, downsizing, or buying for the first time, knowing how to choose the rig

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  • How to Own Your Dream Home in Vancouver, WA: A Step-by-Step Home Buying Guide

    How to Own Your Dream Home in Vancouver, WA: A Step-by-Step Home Buying Guide,Cassandra Marks

    How to Own Your Dream Home in Vancouver, WA: A Step-by-Step Home Buying Guide Owning your dream home is an exciting milestone, and if you’re ready to make that dream a reality, buying a home in Vancouver, WA, is a smart choice. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer in Vancouver or looking to upgrade

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  • Relocating to Vancouver, WA: A Step-by-Step Moving Guide

    Relocating to Vancouver, WA: A Step-by-Step Moving Guide,Cassandra Marks

    The Complete Guide to Relocating to Vancouver, WA in 2025 Relocating to Vancouver, WA from out of town? Whether you’re relocating for work, retiring, or just seeking a fresh start, moving to a new city can be exciting but overwhelming — especially when it’s a cross-state or cross-country move. As so

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  • First-Time Home Buyer in Vancouver, WA? Here’s What You Really Need to Know

    First-Time Home Buyer in Vancouver, WA? Here’s What You Really Need to Know ,Cassandra Marks

    First-Time Home Buyer in Vancouver, WA? Here’s What You Really Need to Know Buying your first home is a thrilling milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. Between understanding mortgage terms, navigating the competitive Vancouver market, and figuring out what you truly want in a home, it's easy

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  • Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Home in Vancouver, WA

    Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Home in Vancouver, WA,Cassandra Marks

    Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Home in Vancouver, WA Buying a home is an exciting milestone in life, but it can also be overwhelming, especially for first-time homebuyers. Vancouver, WA, offers a lot of charm and opportunity, but the home-buying process comes with its own set of challenges.

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  • The Advantages of Buying a Newly Built Home in Vancouver, WA

    The Advantages of Buying a Newly Built Home in Vancouver, WA,Cassandra Marks

    The Advantages of Buying a Newly Built Home in Vancouver, WA                                                  by: holthomes Looking for a home that checks all the boxes and still smells like fresh paint? You’re not alone. Across Vancouver, WA, homebuyers are increasingly choosing newly built homes o

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  • The Hidden Risks in Your Homeowners Insurance Policy

    The Hidden Risks in Your Homeowners Insurance Policy,Cassandra Marks

    The Hidden Risks in Your Homeowners Insurance Policy When Was the Last Time You Read Your Homeowners Insurance Policy? Let’s be honest—most people don’t think about their homeowners insurance policy until something goes wrong. But here’s the hard truth: homeowners insurance in Vancouver, Washington,

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  • Affordable Condos in Vancouver, Washington You’ll Love

    Affordable Condos in Vancouver, Washington You’ll Love,Cassandra Marks

    Affordable Condos in Vancouver, Washington You’ll Love Owning a home can seem overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers, retirees, or busy professionals who aren’t particularly handy or don’t have the time to manage extensive home maintenance. If this sounds like you, have you considered the be

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  • Affordable Neighborhoods in Vancouver, WA: Top Picks for 2024

    Affordable Neighborhoods in Vancouver, WA: Top Picks for 2024,Cassandra Marks

    Affordable Neighborhoods in Vancouver, WA: Top Picks for 2024 If you’re on the hunt for an affordable neighborhood in Vancouver, Washington, you're in the right place. Vancouver, positioned just across the river from Portland, Oregon, offers a unique balance of urban amenities and outdoor living, wi

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  • What You Need to Know Before Moving to Vancouver, Washington

    What You Need to Know Before Moving to Vancouver, Washington,Cassandra Marks

    What You Need to Know Before Moving to Vancouver, Washington So, you’re thinking of making the move to Vancouver, Washington? It’s a gem in the Pacific Northwest, but if you’re after an honest take—no fluff included—you’re in the right place. It's been 18 months since I last covered this topic so I

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  • 3 Killer Reasons Why New Construction is the Smart Choice in Vancouver, WA

    3 Killer Reasons Why New Construction is the Smart Choice in Vancouver, WA,Cassandra Marks

    3 Killer Reasons Why New Construction is the Smart Choice in Vancouver, WA   If you’ve been searching for a new home in Vancouver, WA or Clark County, you’ve probably noticed that new construction homes are leading the 2024 housing market trends. Much like stepping into a brand-new car, moving into

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  • Housing Reality Check: '23 Recap & Bold '24 Vancouver WA Housing Market Predictions

    Housing Reality Check: '23 Recap & Bold '24 Vancouver WA Housing Market Predictions,Cassandra Marks

    Housing Reality Check: '23 Recap & Bold '24 Vancouver WA Housing Market Predictions Greetings, fellow home seekers and property enthusiasts! I'm Cassandra Marks, also known as Realtor Cas, your trusted guide to all things SW Washington, Clark County, Vancouver, and even Portland. Today, let's embark

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  • Is It Affordable to Retire in Vancouver, Washington? A Complete Guide

    Is It Affordable to Retire in Vancouver, Washington? A Complete Guide,Cassandra Marks

    Is It Affordable To Retire In Vancouver Washington?   Life has undeniably become more expensive in recent years, especially on the West Coast. However, if you're a retiree or soon-to-be retiree eyeing the Pacific Northwest as your retirement haven, Vancouver, Washington, might just be the perfect de

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