Puget Sound Properties & Lifestyle

  When you think about what drives the heart of Pierce County, Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) stands as one of the most influential institutions in our region. More than just a military installation, JBLM is deeply woven into the fabric of our communities—providing employment, economic vitality, and a sense of pride that spans generations. A Brief History of JBLM JBLM’s roots trace back to 1917, when the U.S. Army established Camp Lewis during World War I on land donated by Pierce County citizens. This bold gesture was one of the largest community contributions to national defense in U.S. history. Over time, Camp Lewis grew and evolved, merging with McChord Air Force Base in 2010 to form what we now know as Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Today, JBLM is one of the most prominent military installations on the West Coast, covering over 90,000 acres and serving as home to critical Army and Air Force units. Its presence ensures both strategic readiness and regional stability. JBLM’s...

Affectionately known as Grit City and Originally The City of Destiny, Tacoma, Washington offers an interesting blend of modern conveniences while still keeping much of its historical charm. The cultural energy, access to incredible nature and waterways, scenic beauty, and easy access to the mountains and ocean give Tacoma a wonderful personality. And if you’re looking to relocate, Tacoma is far and away less expensive than Seattle, and only 40 minutes South.  Culture and Arts Though not specifically a cultural hub of the Northwest, the heart of Tacoma’s downtown Museum District bursts with world-class attractions—including the Museum of Glass (with the iconic Chihuly Bridge of Glass), Tacoma Art Museum (home to the premier collection of Northwest and Chihuly glass artworks), and the Washington State History Museum. Tacoma Arts Month and monthly public art initiatives keep creativity alive city‑wide.  Tacoma has an incredible number of arts organizations from painting, t...

If you're considering a move to the Puget Sound region, chances are you’ve heard about the rain. But what’s the truth behind the reputation? Is it constantly wet and gray—or is there more to the story? As a long-time real estate broker who calls this area home, I can tell you: the weather here is part of what makes the Pacific Northwest so special. Here's what you can really expect across the four seasons—and how it varies between Seattle, Tacoma, and the Kitsap Peninsula. Spring (March to May): A Fresh Start Spring in the Puget Sound is a season of renewal. You'll notice longer days, blooming cherry blossoms, and vibrant greenery everywhere. While March and early April still carry some drizzle, May typically sees a dramatic shift toward clearer skies. Seattle may see slightly more cloud cover compared to Tacoma or Bremerton, but the difference is subtle. Temperatures hover in the 50s and low 60s, making it perfect for hiking, biking, or taking a ferry to Bainbridge Is...

  This is the final in a six part series on classic and vintage design for homes found in Washington State. Cape Cod-style homes have long been admired for their simplicity, charm, and practicality. Originally designed to withstand the harsh coastal weather of New England, this architectural style has made its way across the country, including the Pacific Northwest. While it may seem surprising to find Cape Cod homes in cities like Seattle, Tacoma, and Gig Harbor, their timeless appeal and functional design have allowed them to blend seamlessly into the region’s landscape. The Origins of Cape Cod Architecture Cape Cod-style architecture traces its roots back to the early 1600s, when English colonists settled in what is now Massachusetts. Inspired by traditional English cottages, these homes were built to endure the cold, windy, and stormy conditions of the Atlantic coast. The defining features of Cape Cod homes included steeply pitched roofs to shed heavy snowfall, symmetrical f...