Puget Sound Properties & Lifestyle

If you’re a homeowner in Arizona, Nevada or California, considering a move to the lush, evergreen landscapes of the Northwest, specifically Washington, you’re not alone. In recent years, many people have felt the pull of the Pacific Northwest’s unique charm. But beyond the scenic allure, there are tangible reasons why moving to Washington could enhance your lifestyle and financial well-being. Here are three compelling reasons to make the move now. 1. Mild Weather and Climate Diversity For many who have spent years in the Southwest’s extreme heat and arid climate, the milder, varied climate of the Northwest offers a refreshing change. Washington’s moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and comfortable summers, can be an appealing alternative to the desert-like conditions of the Southwest. In the Southwest, summers can reach 110°F or more, making it challenging to enjoy outdoor activities during peak months. In contrast, Washington provides year-round opportunities for outd...

  Four Interior Design Choices I Avoid as a Seattle-Tacoma Realtor® Following interior design trends can be tempting, especially when scrolling through visually curated Instagram feeds, flipping through home magazines, or seeing eye-catching decor in showrooms. However, incorporating new trends that catch your eye can lead to a home that feels disconnected from your personality and may lack lasting appeal. Here’s why following interior design trends too closely can be a downside in home design. 1. Trends Can Be Short-Lived Interior design trends come and go, often as quickly as fashion trends. That beautiful velvet sofa in a daring color might be the star of your living room now, but it could start feeling outdated in just a few years. Trends like mid-century modern furniture or minimalist Scandinavian decor have had longer staying power, but others, such as geometric wallpaper or neon accents, may fade fast. Committing to trends that may lose appeal quickly means you’ll likel...

For decades, suburbia was marketed to Americans as the ultimate dream—a place where the nuclear family could thrive, surrounded by safety, green lawns, and white picket fences. Developers sold this vision in the post-World War II era, promising a better life outside crowded urban centers. The vision worked. Suburban neighborhoods flourished, and families bought into the ideal. But this dream was based on an economic reality that no longer exists. Today, inflation, skyrocketing home prices, and the changing dynamics of family life have made suburban living increasingly unattainable for the average American family. Now, strip malls and office parks that once symbolized the economic promise of the suburbs sit empty. Their high rents have driven away tenants, and vast amounts of space remain underutilized. Meanwhile, the nation faces a severe housing crisis, with many unable to afford decent living spaces in either cities or the suburbs. As I drive around the Tacoma-Seattle area, ther...

As we approach 2025, the Seattle-Tacoma real estate market remains a hotbed for investors, offering opportunities for those who know where to look. While the region has long been recognized for its robust economy and strong tech presence, evolving market conditions and rising interest rates are reshaping investment strategies. Whether you're an experienced investor or just starting out, understanding the nuances of the Seattle-Tacoma market can help you make informed decisions and maximize returns. Long-Term Rental Investments The demand for rental properties in the Seattle-Tacoma area continues to rise, driven by the region's booming job market, high cost of homeownership, and population growth. Despite recent economic uncertainties, the tech industry remains a key driver of the local economy, attracting new residents. For investors, purchasing properties in desirable neighborhoods like Capitol Hill, Ballard, or Tacoma's North End can offer steady cash flow and long-te...

  For several years, Seattle’s waterfront has been more than a work in progress. The Alaskan Way Viaduct ran right along the edge, making the area noisy and chaotic with cars and trucks racing past. When the viaduct finally came down, it was replaced by the mess of demolition work, which brought even more disruption to the area. But now, after a lot of construction and patience, Seattle’s waterfront is getting a serious upgrade. On October 4th, 2024, the city opened the Overlook Walk, a cool new pedestrian path that connects Pike Place Market to the waterfront. This is just one piece of the bigger plan for the 20-acre Waterfront Park, which is set to be fully completed by next year. The whole project is costing the city about $806 million, and it’s a big part of Mayor Bruce Harrell’s push to revitalize downtown Seattle, which is desperately needed for both business and visitors alike.  The new waterfront looks great and is drawing attention, but there’s a bit of a catch—lots...

  Assumable Mortgages: A Smart Move in Today’s High-Interest Rate Market As interest rates continue to climb, homebuyers and sellers are looking for innovative solutions to navigate the real estate market. One strategy that is gaining traction is the use of **assumable mortgages**. These types of mortgages offer a significant advantage for both buyers and sellers in a higher-rate environment, providing cost-saving opportunities that can help facilitate real estate transactions. What Is an Assumable Mortgage? An assumable mortgage allows a buyer to take over, or "assume," the seller’s existing mortgage. This means the buyer adopts the terms of the seller’s mortgage, including the interest rate and remaining balance. FHA, VA, and USDA loans are the most common types of assumable mortgages. The key advantage lies in the ability to secure a lower interest rate than what's available in the current market. Why Assumable Mortgages Matter in a High-Interest Rate Market ...