K & M Real Estate

K & M Real Estate We are the PNW Real Estate Brokers & Advisors

Behind the Scenes of Leasing a HomeMost people only see the showing and the key handoff.What they don’t see is everythin...
05/21/2026

Behind the Scenes of Leasing a Home

Most people only see the showing and the key handoff.

What they don’t see is everything happening behind the scenes to ensure a successful tenancy.

Before a home is leased, there’s:
✔️ Property inspections
✔️ Professional marketing and photography
✔️ Scheduling and conducting showings
✔️ Application reviews
✔️ Income, credit, and background verification
✔️ Lease preparation and compliance checks
✔️ Move-in coordination

Leasing a home isn't just about filling a vacancy, it's about finding the right tenant and protecting the property owner's investment.

The details matter, and a smooth leasing experience starts long before move-in day.

For years, people were told:“Buying a home is always better than renting.”But that’s not always true.In some situations,...
05/19/2026

For years, people were told:
“Buying a home is always better than renting.”

But that’s not always true.

In some situations, renting can actually win long-term:
✔️ More flexibility
✔️ Lower maintenance costs
✔️ Less financial pressure
✔️ Ability to invest cash elsewhere
✔️ Freedom to relocate for better opportunities

Homeownership can build wealth — but only when the timing, finances, and lifestyle align.

The smartest financial decision isn’t about following tradition.
It’s about choosing what fits your goals best.

05/13/2026

The wrong tenant can cost you months of stress, missed rent, and property damage.
Most of the time, the issue isn’t the tenant — it’s the screening process.

A consistent, professional screening system helps protect your investment from day one.

A bad tenant usually isn’t the problem…A bad screening process is.Too many property owners make these costly mistakes:Sk...
05/12/2026

A bad tenant usually isn’t the problem…
A bad screening process is.

Too many property owners make these costly mistakes:

Skipping background checks
Rushing approvals to fill vacancies fast
Using inconsistent criteria
Ignoring income verification
Letting emotions override the process

The result?
Late payments, property damage, lease violations, and avoidable stress.

Strong screening isn’t about being overly strict — it’s about being consistent, compliant, and protecting your investment.

The right tenant can make your property profitable.
The wrong one can make it expensive.

Most landlords don’t lose money on bad tenants…They lose it on bad security deposit handling.Here’s where it usually goe...
05/06/2026

Most landlords don’t lose money on bad tenants…
They lose it on bad security deposit handling.

Here’s where it usually goes wrong:

No clear documentation before move-in
Vague lease terms about deductions
Poor communication at move-out
Missing timelines for returning deposits

And when that happens?
Disputes. Delays. Sometimes even legal trouble.

A security deposit isn’t just a safety net — it’s a process.
Handled right, it protects both landlord and tenant.

Handled wrong, it creates unnecessary risk.

If you're managing properties (or thinking about it), this is one area you can’t afford to “wing.”

Ever feel like you’re doing everything right, only to be tripped up by a "technicality"? In the professional world, that...
05/05/2026

Ever feel like you’re doing everything right, only to be tripped up by a "technicality"?

In the professional world, that technicality is often an improper notice. Whether it’s an eviction, a contract termination, or a rent increase, getting the paperwork wrong doesn't just cause a delay, it can cost you thousands in legal fees and lost time.

✅ Double-check the delivery method.
✅ Verify the statutory timelines.
✅ Ensure the language meets legal requirements.

Don’t let a simple document become an expensive nightmare. Have you ever had a notice "bounce back" on you? Let’s swap horror stories (and solutions) in the comments!

04/30/2026

The 60-day notice is officially a thing of the past.

If you’re a landlord in Washington, your "to-do" list just got a 30-day extension whether you wanted it or not. Under the 2026 compliance updates (HB 1217), a 90-day written notice is now the statewide minimum for any rent increase.

But it’s not just about when you send it; it’s about what is in it.

Standardized Forms: You are now required to use state-approved notice forms.

The 30-Day Out: Did you know tenants now have the right to terminate with only 30 days' notice if they receive a rent increase notice?

Managing these timelines across a portfolio isn't just stressful, it’s a legal minefield. We’ve already updated our proprietary management systems to ensure our clients never miss a deadline or use an outdated form.

Nervous about your current lease templates? Send us a DM for a free "Compliance Pulse Check."

Being a landlord in Washington just got a little more complex! With the new 9.683% rent cap now in effect for 2026, many...
04/28/2026

Being a landlord in Washington just got a little more complex!

With the new 9.683% rent cap now in effect for 2026, many property owners are asking: "How do I balance rising maintenance costs with these new state-mandated limits?"

Whether you’re managing a single-family home in Spokane or an apartment complex in Seattle, staying compliant with the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act is a full-time job. Between the 90-day notice requirements and new tenant screening protections starting this April, there’s no room for error.

Don’t risk the $7,500 per-violation penalties. Let’s chat about how professional management can protect your investment and your peace of mind.

Drop a "PLAN" in the comments if you want a copy of our 2026 Washington Landlord Compliance Checklist!

Estate

Should you rent or sell your home in King County?Many homeowners assume selling is the obvious choice.But if your proper...
04/23/2026

Should you rent or sell your home in King County?

Many homeowners assume selling is the obvious choice.

But if your property has:
• 30%+ equity
• Strong rental demand
• Long-term appreciation potential

Leasing your home may create significantly more long-term wealth.

The key is understanding the opportunity cost of both decisions.

Most of our clients start with a simple question:
“What actually makes the most sense for my situation?”

If you own a home in King County and you're weighing your options, we’re happy to share our perspective.

No pressure. Just clarity.

Address

837 N 34TH Street
Seattle, WA
98103

Telephone

+13607728300

Website

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