Top States for Washington In-Migration

The state of Washington continues to enjoy economic growth.  Top employers such as Boeing, Microsoft, Amazon, Starbucks, Nordstroms, University of Washington, and more draw people from all over the world.  In May 2012, 10,269 adults obtained their driver's license in Washington, after leaving their home state or country.  This is 52 more than May 2011. While net migration out of Washington is not as accurate, due to incomplete reporting of surrendered licenses, we see a total of 3127 licenses surrendered.  Where are all these new arrivals coming from?  According to the Department of Licensing, drivers are migrating from all states and many countries, but the top five states are, in order:

1. California: 1832
2. Oregon: 1287
3. Texas: 598
4. Arizona: 517
5. Idaho: 415

Incidentally, California, Oregon and Texas are historically the top three in-migration states. 

Other locations outside the United States that top the in-migration list for May 2012 include:

1. British Columbia: 83
2. Korea: 70
3. India: 51
4. Mexico: 40
5. China: 25

For more information on driver migration, check out Washington's Department of Licensing statistics.

May 2012 Sales Strongest in 7 years!

Our market is constantly changing.  What we are seeing now in the greater Seattle area is a strong seller's market.  Low inventory and record low interest rates along with an increase in hiring in the Puget Sound area has caused quite a stir in our housing market.  Multiple offers are common.  Short sales and foreclosures are down.  Demand remains strong. Sales at Coldwell Banker Bain Bellevue are at levels not seen in the past 7 years.  Sellers are slowly listing homes for sale and buyers are often jockeying for best position to purchase a home.  Pre-inspections, escalation clauses and personal letters to sellers are now part and parcel of the buying process.  Those buyers who think they can find a home and negotiate on their own will soon discover the hard way that a savvy Realtor is their best strategy for finding and purchasing a great home in this competitive market.  If you want great results in buying or selling a home, give me a call:  206.383.3119.  My experience will go a long way in helping you achieve your housing goals.