Puget Sound Properties & Lifestyle

When searching for the perfect home, location is often the most significant factor. While every location has its appeal, each also comes with potential drawbacks. Let’s explore five specific types of homeownership locations, highlighting both their benefits and challenges. 1. Homes on a Hillside Positive: Hillside homes often boast breathtaking views. Whether it’s a cityscape, ocean, or sprawling valley, these vistas can be a constant source of inspiration and a major selling point. For many homeowners, the ability to wake up to a stunning sunrise or unwind with a picturesque sunset can add immeasurable value to their living experience. These homes also tend to feel more private, with neighbors spaced farther apart and natural surroundings enhancing the sense of seclusion. Here in Tacoma and Gig Harbor, Washington, and even Seattle, homes with views are ample and garner often much higher prices when sold. View homes in Seattle are some of the most sought after homes in the area. Ne...

  Investing in Real Estate & Why Passive Income Has Never Been More Important Investing in real estate has long been considered a prudent strategy for building wealth and generating passive income. Among the many locations available, Washington stands out as an exceptional choice for property investment. From our robust economy and favorable market conditions to our high quality of life, there are numerous reasons why buying investment property in Washington is a valuable tool for securing passive income. Below are five of the most important from my perspective.  1. Strong and Diverse Economy One of the primary reasons Washington is an excellent place for real estate investment is its strong and diverse economy. The state is home to several major industries, including technology, aerospace, healthcare, and retail. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, and Starbucks have their headquarters in Washington, attracting a highly skilled workforce. This economic diversity not...

Relocating to Washington From Las Vegas - Part I   Moving from Las Vegas to Washington State more than 5 years ago, was a monumental task that I didn’t fully anticipate being as challenging as it was. On top of the move, COVID-19 began raging shortly after I relocated and created layers of complications beyond just social distancing.    As a full-time licensed real estate broker, connecting with people and generating business from conversations is a primary source of lead generation. Coming from Las Vegas where I had lived the majority of my life, the adjustment to a new city, culture and geography took time. I didn’t know my way around. I didn’t know anyone and the pandemic ensured it would be even a bigger mountain to climb than I’d anticipated. As a newcomer from the desert southwest, I’ll share some of my key learnings and how I have navigated the change from Nevada to Washington. And for the record, I’m so glad I made the move, but it doesn’t mean there aren’t things...

  3 Simple Takeaways You Should Know…from the National Association of Realtors Settlement I have been a full-time broker for more than 15 years, and though my primary role is facilitating the sale of real estate, I also educate consumers on best practice and updates that affect you. Though the information below is relevant to all states, I’m specifically speaking to my home state of Washington.   The Association (NAR) has reached a proposed settlement with the plaintiffs in the case brought against NAR, but it is not yet finalized and could change. For consumers, the settlement creates added transparency around brokerage compensation and how brokerages are paid. Traditionally, in real estate, the seller has the responsibility to compensate both the listing and the buyers brokerage. The buyers financial responsibility traditionally has been downpayment, closing costs and appraisals and inspections. That could now change.   The first change, which was already signed into la...

Today’s Tacoma Highlight The North End of Tacoma, Washington is a vibrant and historic area located in the northern part of the city. Some of the most sought after real estate is found here.  North Tacoma is situated north of downtown Tacoma and extends along the shoreline of Commencement Bay. It's bordered by Ruston Way to the west, the Port of Tacoma to the south, and the Tacoma Narrows Bridge to the north. The primary neighborhoods that comprise the North End are Stadium District, Proctor, UPS, North Slope Historic District and Three Bridges. Each of them have unique characteristics and features that separate them from the other.  Known for its charming residential streets, beautiful views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, and its historic architecture, North End Tacoma has a distinct character. It features a mix of early 20th-century Craftsman-style homes, Tudor-style houses, and other architectural styles.  Point Defiance Park, one of the most significant ...