Bellevue has some of the top-rated schools in Washington. Families often look for homes near schools like International School, Newport High School, Interlake High School, Chinook Middle School, Odle Middle School, and Somerset Elementary.

Microsoft (Redmond): Overlake, East Bellevue/Redmond
Google (Kirkland): Neighborhoods in Kirkland and Redmond
Meta (Bellevue): Downtown Bellevue and surrounding central neighborhoods

Neighborhoods known for lower crime rates include Magnolia, Queen Anne, Ballard, Green Lake, West Seattle, and Blue Ridge/North Beach.

Approximate drive times:

Redmond → Seattle: 25–35 min
Bellevue → Seattle: 20–30 min
Kirkland → Seattle: 25–35 min
Woodinville → Seattle: 30–45 min
Fall City → Seattle: 40–60 min
North Bend → Seattle: 45–60+ min

Closing costs are fees paid at the end of a home sale (escrow, lender fees, title, taxes, etc.). They typically range from 2%–5% of the purchase price.

Earnest money is a good-faith deposit a buyer puts down when their offer is accepted. It shows commitment and is applied to the buyer’s closing costs or down payment.

You don’t have to, but most sellers benefit from an agent’s pricing, marketing, negotiation, and transaction expertise - usually leading to a smoother sale and better results.

Generally, the springtime brings the strongest market in March, April, and May because spring has the largest pool of buyers. Fall can also be strong from after Labor Day to the end of October, depending on the market.

Sellers must provide a Form 17 disclosure in Washington, outlining any known issues or material facts about the home (roof, systems, water, structural items, etc.).

Frequently Asked Questions