Puget Sound Properties & Lifestyle

If you’ve ever browsed homes online, chances are you’ve seen a Zillow “Zestimate” attached to the property’s listing. It’s tempting to take that number as gospel — after all, it’s right there in black and white. But here’s the truth: while Zestimates can be a fun starting point, they often miss the mark when it comes to what a home in the Tacoma–Seattle market will actually sell for. What a Zestimate Really Is A Zestimate is Zillow’s automated valuation tool. It pulls data from public records, tax assessments, and recent sales in your area, then runs it through an algorithm to guess your home’s value. The keyword here is guess . Zillow doesn’t walk through your home, peek at your new kitchen remodel, or see that gorgeous water view you enjoy every morning. In my opinion, a Zestimate sounds like a clock, that’s only accurate twice per day.  Why Zestimates Can Be Off in Our Market The Tacoma–Seattle market is full of unique homes, custom renovations, and diverse neighborhoods. ...

Not everything that adds value to a home can be measured with a calculator or found on an appraisal form. While square footage, recent renovations, and upgrades can be quantified, there are several more nuanced aspects that can influence a buyer’s perception—and therefore their willingness to pay top dollar. These subjective qualities don’t have fixed dollar amounts, but they can dramatically elevate your home’s desirability in a competitive market. Below are six such factors every homeowner or seller should understand. 1. Location “Location, location, location” isn’t just a cliché—it’s a powerful truth in real estate. Homes in highly walkable neighborhoods, near thriving downtowns or close to excellent schools often demand a premium. Whether it’s a spot near the water in Gig Harbor, a vibrant urban village in South Lake Union, or a quiet suburban enclave in Tacoma, the perceived convenience and lifestyle that comes with a great location can significantly influence how much buyers a...

In my 15+ years in real estate, I’ve guided countless buyers and sellers through the intricacies of home value—and one topic that continues to spark interest is the difference between single-story and multi-story homes. While multi-level homes can be appealing for their compact footprint and separation of space, single-story homes often retain a higher value, and it’s not just about aesthetics or lifestyle. The construction differences, building costs, and land use all play a role in why single-story properties are often in higher demand and appraise for more. The Construction Factor From a builder’s perspective, a single-story home requires more foundation and roofing materials compared to a two-story home of equal square footage. This is because the footprint is spread horizontally rather than vertically. You’ll need a larger slab, more trusses, and often more framing material. That said, while this may make construction slightly more expensive on a per-square-foot basis, it also r...