Puget Sound Properties & Lifestyle

  The holiday season is a magical time in the greater Seattle and Tacoma areas, with events that bring cheer, sparkle, and festive fun. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly outings, dazzling light displays, or an unforgettable Christmas escape, we’ve rounded up 10 must-attend holiday events, including the charming town of Leavenworth. Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate!   1. Leavenworth Village of Lights: Christmastown Where: Leavenworth, WA   When: November 24 – December 24, 2024   Why Go: The Bavarian-style town of Leavenworth transforms into a winter wonderland, with over half a million lights illuminating the village. Enjoy carolers, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and festive shops. It’s a picture-perfect Christmas getaway nestled in the Cascade Mountains.   2. WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo Where: Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle   When: November 10, 2024 – January 14, 2025   Why Go: This immersive lantern festival takes you ...

  The idea of “timing the market” often comes up when people are thinking about buying or selling real estate. The concept seems straightforward: wait for the perfect moment when prices are low, interest rates are favorable, or the market conditions seem just right. While this strategy might sound logical, it’s not practical—and often ends up costing you more than you think.  In my real estate life, I have purchased 5 homes in the last 20 years. I short sold my first two, during the Great Recession when my property value collapsed in front of me. My greatest regret is selling them, instead of renting them and waiting out the market. In the moment, it felt like catastrophe, losing hundreds of thousands of dollars in a year. And yet, had I remained level-headed and focused on the long game, I would still have those two revenue generated assets today. Buying a home in Tacoma was one of my smartest investments I've made. Tacoma is a growing area with long term potential and a busi...

Exploring the Puget Sound Ferry System: A Unique Asset to Washington Living The Puget Sound region is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, lush greenery, and iconic waterfronts. For both locals and newcomers, one feature stands out as a defining part of life in Washington: the Washington State Ferry system. More than just a mode of transportation, this vast network of ferries weaves together the fabric of daily life for many who call the region home. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring island getaways, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, the ferry system is an invaluable resource.   Connecting Communities Across the Sound Washington State boasts the largest ferry system in the United States, with 21 vessels serving 10 routes across Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, and nearby areas. For many residents, especially those living on islands or in more remote communities, the ferry is a lifeline. It connects them to the mainland for work, education, healthcare, ...

When considering a move to the Puget Sound area, one of the first questions people often ask is, “Does it really rain all the time?” While the region is known for its damp reputation, the truth is far more nuanced. If you’re envisioning endless downpours and perpetual gloom, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn that the weather in the Puget Sound is much more diverse and manageable than stereotypes suggest.   Rainfall: It’s Not as Wet as You Think   While the Puget Sound area, including Seattle, does experience a fair amount of precipitation, it doesn’t lead the nation in rainfall. Cities like New York City, Miami, and even Houston receive more annual rain than Seattle. Seattle averages about **37 inches of rain per year**, whereas New York gets around 50 inches, and Miami sees a whopping 61 inches. What sets the Puget Sound apart isn’t the amount of rain but the frequency of light drizzle and mist that stretches over more days, rather than heavy downpours. November is ...

So, You Think You're Safe: Four Ways to Protect You & Your Investment Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it’s crucial to prioritize safety throughout the process. From safeguarding your finances to ensuring personal security, taking preventative measures can make all the difference. Here, I outline four key areas to focus on to enhance your safety as a homebuyer. 1. Protect Yourself Against Wire Fraud Wire fraud is an increasingly prevalent threat in real estate transactions, where criminals impersonate trusted parties to trick buyers into wiring their down payment to fraudulent accounts. To prevent becoming a victim, stay vigilant: Verify Payment Instructions: Always confirm wiring instructions with a trusted source. Call your title company directly using a verified phone number—never rely on emailed contact information alone. Be Skeptical of Last-Minute Changes: Criminals often create urgency to push fraudulent requests. Be especially cautious if you rece...