Puget Sound Properties & Lifestyle

The Growing Popularity of Eco-Friendly Landscaping in the Pacific Northwest Eco-friendly landscaping is gaining momentum across the United States, but nowhere is its impact more evident than in the Pacific Northwest. Known for its stunning natural beauty, temperate climate, and environmental consciousness, this region is at the forefront of sustainable landscaping practices that minimize environmental impact while enhancing the natural ecosystem. Homeowners, businesses, and municipalities in cities like Seattle, Portland, and Vancouver are increasingly embracing eco-friendly landscaping techniques, integrating sustainable practices to protect the environment and promote biodiversity. Why Eco-Friendly Landscaping? Eco-friendly landscaping, often called "green landscaping," is focused on minimizing water usage, reducing waste, and fostering biodiversity by working with nature, rather than against it. In the Pacific Northwest, with its unique ecosystems, this approach is n...

Federal Reserve Rate Cuts and Your Mortgage: What You Need to Know Over the past two and a half years, Americans have faced rising interest rates following a decade of historically low borrowing costs in the wake of the Great Recession. Shifting from these record lows to mortgage rates in the mid-7% range has been challenging, especially as real estate prices have surged since the early 2010s. This week, the Federal Reserve made a pivotal move by cutting rates by half a percentage point after months of speculation. The market responded swiftly, with stocks showing strong gains and an uptick in trading activity. What Does This Mean for Homeowners and Prospective Buyers? While the recent Fed rate cut doesn’t directly lower mortgage rates, it reflects a positive economic outlook, which could influence future mortgage rates. The Fed Funds Rate directly affects the costs of credit cards, auto loans, and savings rates, while mortgage rates tend to respond more gradually. That said, mortgage ...