A median Washington home costs $602,200 (5th of 51). Borrowing 80% at 7.40% gives $3,834.69 per month once $396.42 of tax and $102.67 of insurance are added to $3,335.61 of principal and interest; at 5% down with PMI, budget $4,698.49.
Homestead exemptions and property tax relief
Washington's main relief is the exemption for seniors (61 and older), people with disabilities, and disabled veterans whose household income is under a county-specific threshold. It can freeze the home's value and exempt some levies. Apply with the county assessor. A separate program lets eligible owners defer taxes.
First-time buyer programs
The Washington State Housing Finance Commission's Home Advantage down payment assistance adds 3%, 4% or 5% of the first mortgage as a 0% deferred loan for households earning up to $215,000. It is repaid at sale, refinance or payoff. A needs-based option provides up to $10,000 at 1% under lower county income limits.
Transfer and recording taxes
The seller pays the state real estate excise tax in graduated steps: 1.10% on the first $525,000 of price and 1.28% on the portion up to $1,525,000, with higher rates above that. On a $602,200 sale that is about $6,763, plus a local REET of 0.25% to 0.5% in most places. The first threshold rises to $551,000 on January 1, 2027.
Closing costs to plan for
Buyers pay escrow, title, lender fees and prepaids, but no excise tax.
When property tax bills are due
Washington property taxes are due April 30 and October 31; if the year's tax is under $50, it is all due April 30. Washington has no state income tax, so local levies and the state school levy make up most of the bill.
Before you buy in Washington
To appeal a value, file a petition with the county board of equalization by July 1 of the assessment year or within 30 days after the value notice is mailed, whichever is later; some counties allow up to 60 days. The seller pays the graduated real estate excise tax, but it still affects the price you negotiate. In eastern Washington and mountain areas, get a wildfire-risk insurance quote early.
2026 loan limit in Washington
FHFA 2026 one-unit conforming limits: high-cost limits apply in 3 of 39 counties, as high as $1,063,750 (King County, Pierce County, Snohomish County). The typical $481,760 loan stays conforming.
Washington numbers used above
| Measure | Washington | U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Median home value (ACS 2024) | $602,200 | $360,600 |
| Effective property tax rate | 0.79% (24th highest) | 0.89% |
| Average HO-3 premium (NAIC 2023) | $1,232 | $1,737 |
| Median household income | $99,389 | $81,604 |
| Median gross rent | $1,824 | $1,487 |
| Income needed at 28% (20% down) | $164,344 | – |
Frequently asked questions
When are Washington property taxes due?
April 30 and October 31.
How do I appeal my Washington assessment?
File with the county board of equalization by July 1, or within 30 days of the value notice if that is later.
Who pays Washington's real estate excise tax?
The seller. It is graduated, starting at 1.10% on the first $525,000 of the price.
What is the median-home payment in Washington?
About $3,834.69 a month on a $602,200 home with 20% down at 7.40%, including tax and insurance.
Sources
- WA DOR, 2026 property tax calendar
- WAC 458-14-056
- WA DOR, senior exemption (age 61+)
- WA DOR, real estate excise tax
- WA DOR, senior/disabled exemption
- WSHFC down payment assistance
- FHFA, 2026 conforming loan limits
- Census ACS 2024 1-year (B25077, B25103, B19013, B25064); NAIC homeowners report (2023); Freddie Mac PMMS.
See also: all states · house affordability · Washington paycheck