Real Estate Excise Tax (REET)

What is the Real Estate Excise Tax (REET)?

The Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) is a tax levied on the sale and transfer of ownership of real property (land and permanent structures). REET applies to all sales of real property, unless a specific statutory exemption is met. It also applies to transfers of a controlling interest (typically 50% or more) in an entity that owns real property.

Note on Tulalip Reservation Sales: Sales of real property on the Tulalip Reservation are subject to the Tulalip Tribes Real Estate Excise Tax Code (TTC 12.20), which requires a portion of the tax to be paid to the Tribes.

Who Pays the Tax and When is it Due?

The seller of the property is typically responsible for paying the tax. REET is due and payable on the date of sale before the conveyance documents (like a deed) can be recorded. While a portion is paid to the County Treasurer, **1% of the selling price is due and payable to the Tulalip Tribes** (as required by Tribal Code 12.20) and must be submitted via the Tulalip REET Affidavit.

Fryberg Estates

For any specific questions regarding REET or LOUT as they apply to Fryberg Estates, including BIA documentation requirements or contact with the Fryberg Estate Committee, please submit a request through our dedicated platform: Wrike Service portal.

REET Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

REET is based on the selling price and is often calculated using a graduated state rate plus a specific local REET rate. The selling price includes any debt (such as liens or mortgages) that the buyer takes over

This is a mandatory form that must be completed for every transfer of real property, including exempt transactions. It must be completed and signed by both the grantor (seller) and the grantee (buyer).

The seller of the property primarily holds responsibility for the REETA, as the seller is the party who pays the excise tax. Agents, such as an escrow agent, lawyer, or paralegal, are permitted to fill out and file the form on behalf of the seller and/or buyer.

If a transfer is exempt (e.g., gift, inheritance), the exemption reason (WAC number and title) must be cited on the Real Estate Excise Tax Affidavit. Exempt transactions are typically subject to a minimum processing fee.

Yes, in many cases, it does. It is a common misconception that the Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) only applies to Tulalip Tribal members. While REET Code 12.20.040 generally excludes sales by non-enrolled members, there are key exceptions that result in the tax being due.

Most often, the exception is triggered when non-members have a "consensual relationship with the Tribes through commercial dealing, contracts, or other arrangements" (TTC 12.20.040.1(b)). This most commonly occurs when the property utilizes Tulalip Utilities water and/or sewer services.

Exemptions and Refunds

The REET tax typically does not apply (or a refund may be granted) for sales involving:
  • Undeveloped land.
  • Property that is on a septic system and/or well water.
  • A sale directly to the Tulalip Tribes itself.
  • Transactions that qualify as a gift.

Yes. The sale of a mobile home that is not being moved from its current location requires a specific Mobile Home Real Estate Tax Affidavit and is subject to REET.

Yes, in many cases, it does. It is a common misconception that the Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) only applies to Tulalip Tribal members. While REET Code 12.20.040 generally excludes sales by non-enrolled members, there are key exceptions that result in the tax being due.

Most often, the exception is triggered when non-members have a "consensual relationship with the Tribes through commercial dealing, contracts, or other arrangements" (TTC 12.20.040.1(b)). This most commonly occurs when the property utilizes Tulalip Utilities water and/or sewer services.

The REET tax typically does not apply (or a refund may be granted) for sales involving:
  • Undeveloped land.
  • Property that is on a septic system and/or well water.
  • A sale directly to the Tulalip Tribes itself.
  • Transactions that qualify as a gift.

For REET-specific inquiries, including questions about the affidavit, exemptions, or general guidance, please utilize the dedicated REET service portal.

For More Information

Department Email:
realestate@tulaliptribes-nsn.gov

Department Phone Number:
360-716-4129

Contact: