Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it typically take to sell my land?
On average, a land purchase can take anywhere from nine months to two years for the close of the sale. The amount of time it takes depends upon the complexity of the project, the local municipalities, and the neighboring community.

What is a "feasibility contingency?"
The process of purchasing your land begins when a development company makes you an offer. That offer typically includes a "feasibility contingency". This contingency is a time for the developer to determine, after studies, if they can move forward with the sale.

What is a "feasibility study?"
It is a group of studies that developers perform to determine if the property is suitable for development. These studies look at environmental and regulatory factors, aesthetics, marketability, and costs. If, after the "feasibility study", Pacific Ridge Homes does not go forward with the project, they give the property owner all information discovered and any studies performed at no charge.

What is an "earnest money deposit?"
Once a feasibility contingency has been successfully removed, the developer presents an "earnest money deposit" to the landowner. This deposit is paid if the developer accepts the "feasibility study." It is typically paid within 120 days of the initial offer.

When will I receive final payment for my land?
The developers deliver final payment of the remaining price of the land once they complete the application, design, and approval processes. This typically takes from nine months to two years (or longer), depending upon a variety of factors that affect the project.

What happens if I change my mind during the process?
Both parties have entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement. This is a legal contract. Both parties are then bound by the legal terms of the agreement.

My family's property includes a small wetlands area. Can it still be developed?
Wetlands are regulated by state and local jurisdictions. Small wetland areas can sometimes be filled, if there are other areas on the site that can be mitigated and enlarged to make up the difference. While most wetland areas cannot be developed, the remainder of your property should be developable.

My property has been listed as a "flood zone." Can it still be developed?
Yes it can, although there are restrictions and limitations. These can be determined through the "feasibility study".

Do I continue to pay all taxes on the land during this sales process?
Yes. The property remains yours until the final close of the sale. Until then, the taxes are your responsibility.

What will happen to my property once I sell it to Pacific Ridge Homes?
Pacific Ridge Homes creates communities. We are both developers and builders of affordable housing neighborhoods. If you choose to sell your land to Pacific Ridge Homes, you can be assured that you have helped many families follow their dreams of owning a home.

Has Pacific Ridge successfully developed other properties?
Yes, the owners of Pacific Ridge Homes have a combined record of over 40 years' experience as both developers and builders. Pacific Ridge Homes has developed several properties throughout Snohomish County.

How does Pacific Ridge differ from other developers?
Pacific Ridge is not only a developer, but a builder as well. We purchase the land, prepare it for development, and build the communities that have become part of your neighborhoods. And since we both develop and build, we are able to maintain more control over our projects than a company who merely develops or builds. We work closely with sellers, officials, neighbors, and community groups to create win-win situations for everyone.

My family's property includes a grove of trees that has special significance to me. Is it possible for me to request what happens to these trees?
Yes. We at Pacific Ridge Homes realize that sometimes the property may hold elements that have personal meaning for family members. In order to preserve these places we often fulfill special requests from sellers. In the past we have even designed projects to include parks or open areas where the trees or other special objects were memorialized.