Monthly Newsletter July 7, 2026

Seabrook, WA: Your Next Great Escape

Summer has arrived, and if you are looking for a great escape only 3 hours from Seattle, you should check out Seabrook on the Washington Coast! I had the opportunity to enjoy it this winter, and I am excited to share all the aspects this gem of a town has to offer, along with a discount you can use for your stay. This town can be enjoyed through all four seasons, but summer has to be amazing!

I can extend to you a 20% discount off your stay. Seabrook and Windermere have partnered, and Windermere has become the official real estate company representing Seabrook. This partnership allows us to pass on this discount to our clients who would like to visit. If you are interested in receiving the discount, please reach out, and I can get you registered and personally connect you with the Seabrook rental team to ensure you get to enjoy this special offer.

Seabrook is a beach town along the Washington Coast’s Olympic Peninsula that is seamlessly woven into nature. The town sits on a scenic bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offering incredible views and unmatched beach access. Seabrook is a thoughtfully-built new town founded on new urbanism design.

Seabrook features over 475+ Washington Coast homes in eight neighborhoods, some available as vacation rentals and some available for purchase, as well as numerous merchants, more than 30 parks, a Town Hall, and countless amenities. Seabrook is a walking and biking paradise! Designed with a “walk to anything in five minutes” principle in mind, guests and residents routinely comment on the thoughtful design their team has employed to create this unique vacation town.

 

Every year, thousands of guests stay at Seabrook by booking one of the over 270 homes in their popular Vacation Rentals program. No home is the same, accommodating anywhere from two to twenty people (dogs, too, in certain homes).

In addition to promenades and walking trails galore, you’ll find a central amphitheater, a hilltop and oceanfront park, outdoor games and playgrounds, a Town Hall, fire pits, horseshoe pits, mountain bike trails, a heated indoor pool, and spacious Crescent Park. Leave the car in park and explore simple living on the Washington Coast.

All of the homes come with well-appointed kitchens, but we all know that grabbing a bite to eat while on vacation is a bonus. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a family-friendly meal, or coffee before a beach walk, Seabrook offers dining options for every taste, all within an easy stroll of the town center.

  • Frontager’s Pizza Co. – Wood-fired pizza, pasta, salads, local beer & wine.
  • Koko’s Restaurant & Tequila Bar – Elevated Mexican cuisine, craft margaritas, weekend brunch.
  • Rising Tide Tavern – Burgers, seafood, fish & chips, salads, and local brews.
  • The Stowaway Wine Bar – Wine, charcuterie, and small plates in a cozy setting.
  • Vista Bakeshop – Fresh pastries, breakfast sandwiches, artisan breads, and coffee.
  • Bellwether Cafe – Espresso drinks, breakfast, sandwiches, and grab-and-go options.
  • The Sweet Life – Ice cream, candy, fudge, and milkshakes.

 

SEABROOK AND THE ART OF TOWNMAKING
Town founders, Casey and Laura Roloff, first met in high school and quickly realized they had one major thing in common — they loved the beach! After graduating from college, they married and moved to the Oregon Coast, where they started their very first business painting houses.

As the Roloffs became more involved in the local community, they studied the local and national real estate markets and recognized an opportunity to build custom vacation homes, second homes, and primary residences that had architectural character and an uncommon attention to detail.

Using new urbanist design principles and inspiration from the internationally recognized town of Seaside, Florida, they set out to build their first beach community, Bella Beach, on the Oregon Coast. Finding great success with Bella, they eventually looked northward towards Washington State for a similar opportunity. This led them to Grays Harbor County, where, in 2004, along with their innovative design team, they worked collaboratively to curate and develop Washington’s most celebrated beach town, Seabrook.

A TOWN WITH A PEDESTRIAN-FRIENDLY SCALE
Visitors to Seabrook experience how the lost art of town making has been brought to life with a specialized design concept known as The New Urbanism. Everything in the coastal town is purpose-built with walkability and connectivity intertwined with the beautiful coastal surroundings, a signature of the Pacific Northwest.

Entering Seabrook is stepping into a welcoming, comfortable and charming atmosphere that has all been carefully planned and accomplished one home, retail space, amenity, or trail at a time. Yes, cars are welcome (how else are you going to get there?), but you’ll be happy to leave them stowed away in a carriage house or along one of the tree-lined streets where on-street parking is actually encouraged to ensure safe streets for pedestrians and bicyclists.

 

 INTENTIONAL EASE OF ACCESS

The transect concept provides zones that are an important part of new urbanism planning and that help describe the wide range of community transitions from rural to urban with an emphasis of increasing town-wide accessibility to homes, shopping, and amenities.

Proximity To Metropolitan Areas
Seabrook is conveniently located a short drive away from Seattle and Portland, making it an accessible drive-to vacation location that has been on-the-rise for years. The beach town is also situated near popular sightseeing destinations like the Olympic National Park (a World Heritage Site), a 45-minute drive away.

Homes to Accommodate Everyone
Seabrook was built with inclusivity in mind. Homes of all sizes, from 2-person carriage homes to homes that sleep upwards of 20 people, create a sense of community for everyone living or staying in Seabrook.

Merchants & Town Events
In Seabrook, children play freely and safely, merchants quickly become staple stops of old and new patrons alike, and events bring the community together for conversation and memories made. They even have venues you can rent for your own special events such as a wedding.

Miles of Shoreline and Trails to Explore
But we can’t forget about the beach. All roads (or, in Seabrook’s case, walking trails) flow down to the magnificent allure of the Pacific Ocean. Seabrook’s three beach accesses provide a convenient way to enjoy and access the beach from its three oceanfront neighborhoods: NW Glen, Pacific Glen, & Elk Creek.

Community Involvement
The connectivity also expands throughout the local community and county. The Seabrook Community Foundation awards grants to many Grays Harbor County Nonprofits with an emphasis on aiding Grays Harbor Youth. One percent of every house sale goes towards the efforts to uplift the North Beach community that surrounds Seabrook.

 
I highly encourage you if you have a blank space in your calendar this summer or any other time of the year to visit Seabrook. Its charm, connection to nature, and easy access from the city makes it a great place to invest your vacation dollars. If you are interested in exploring the real estate market there, please reach out. I have connections to the sales team now that they are a Windermere affiliate. Here’s to a beautiful summer ahead and finding some time to wind down with the people that matter most.

Monthly Newsletter May 26, 2026

Design Trends for 2026 & Beyond: Softer, Lived-In Luxury

As we find ourselves in the midst of spring, freshening up our surroundings is a natural inclination. If you have been dreaming of updating your space, trying something new, or just want an overall refresh, I’ve uncovered the latest trends to help inspire your next project. Don’t miss all the fun links below that help bring these trends to life.

As a broker who is in and out of hundreds of homes a year, I can definitely say these simple pivots can add enjoyment plus resale value to your home. Many of these design trends can be done on your own or involve minor changes that make a big impact without breaking the bank. Some are more involved, but if you are considering a remodel, these great tips will help ensure your investment is on track.

The biggest home design trends for 2026 are all about warmth, texture, personality, and nature-inspired living. After years of ultra-minimal, gray-and-white interiors, designers are moving toward homes that feel layered, emotional, and timeless rather than overly “perfect.”

Here’s a breakdown of the top trends across paint, decor, surfaces, kitchens, baths, and landscaping.

 

  1. Paint Color Trends for 2026

Warm Earthy Neutrals Replace Cool Gray

Designers are calling these “grounding neutrals. The dominant palette for 2026 is:

  • warm taupe
  • mushroom
  • khaki
  • camel
  • espresso brown
  • clay and terracotta
  • olive and eucalyptus greens

 

Most talked-about tones:

 

Best Seattle-Friendly Paint Colors

These work especially well in cloudy PNW lighting:

 

Color Drenching Continues

Color drenching, which involves rooms painted in a single tone, including walls, ceilings, trim, and cabinetry, is still trending strongly in 2026. This creates a cocoon-like, luxurious feel. Popular drenched colors:

 

Soft Pastels Are Back, But Sophisticated

Soft pastels are being used in a more grown-up, vintage-inspired way rather than in a playful or childish way. Popular colors that add warmth and softness are:

 

  1. Interior Decor Trends

“Lived-In Luxury”

Lived-in Luxury is a design style that makes a home feel elevated, beautiful, and curated, but also comfortable, warm, personal, and actually livable. The aesthetic is cozy sophistication instead of sterile minimalism. Homes are becoming:

  • softer
  • more personal
  • less staged
  • more collected over time

Expect:

 

Curves & Organic Shapes

Sharp modern edges are softening. The aesthetic in 2026 includes:

 

Statement Lighting as Art

Lighting is now treated like jewelry for the room rather than a utility. I’ve been impressed with lighting options that are not overly expensive, and the impact that is made is huge. Simply replacing a “boob” light in a bedroom with something more elevated or a bar light above a bathroom mirror that has more appeal can change the feel of the entire room and elevate it. Lighting is becoming sculptural:

 

Chrome Is Back

Warm brass still exists, but polished chrome and nickel are returning in a cleaner, more timeless way. I am also seeing a trend of mixed metals rise to the top. Along with the layered, more collected look, having a balanced variety instead of just one tone throughout creates a cozier, more interesting space.

Especially trending in:

  • kitchens
  • baths
  • cabinet hardware
  • faucets

 

Wallpaper is no longer just “pattern.”

Wallpaper is having a MASSIVE moment in 2026, but it looks very different from the wallpaper trends people remember from the 1990s or even the accent-wall era of the 2010s. The biggest shift is that it’s becoming immersive, tactile, and soulful. Expect:

  • texture
  • atmosphere
  • architecture
  • storytelling
  • emotional design

 

  1. Hard Surface Trends

Natural Stone with Movement

While new paint, switching out hardware, and updating lighting can be somewhat easy and less costly, new hard surfaces are a bigger investment. If you are considering replacing your countertops, choosing dramatic natural stone instead of plain quartz is the direction we are seeing designers go. The more movement and organic texture, the better. Even a quartz with some veins has been popular versus something more plain.

Trending:

 

Warm Woods Dominate

White oak remains huge, but darker woods are rising:

  • walnut
  • smoked oak
  • medium brown woods
  • rich paneling

Warm wood paneling is especially trending in mid-century modern homes and recently-built modern new construction homes. Gone are the days when wood paneling is frowned upon. I’m even seeing older homes that still have original wood paneling be preserved and highlighted. There are really fun wood paneling kits that are available to do an accent wall, stairwell, or end of a hallway to add depth, texture, and warmth.

 

Textured Finishes

Flat, sterile finishes are fading, and imperfection is now considered luxurious. This aligns with the more curated, collected feel that lends itself to coziness and evokes emotion.

Trending textures:

  • limewash walls
  • Venetian plaster
  • fluted wood
  • Zellige tile
  • handmade ceramic tile
  • textured stone

 

Tile Trends

Personalized tilework is becoming a major design feature. Tiles with texture, warmth, and variation can make a room feel softer and less stark. Zellige tile, which is intentionally irregular (has differing tile height and imperfect edges), glossy, and reflects light, can be found in whites and creams or in tonal shades, which are big in 2026:

  • checkerboard stone
  • mosaic tile
  • slab backsplashes
  • handmade-look tile
  • full-height stone walls

 

  1. Kitchen Trends

“Soft Kitchens”

Kitchens are becoming warmer and less clinical. Completely white modern kitchens are being replaced with warmer, layered kitchens. Creams and wood are highlights to create dimension, character, and warmth.

Trending:

  • wood cabinetry
  • creamy paint colors
  • hidden appliances
  • furniture-style islands
  • mixed materials

 

Mixed Cabinet Colors

Instead of one uniform kitchen look, updates are added to create a very custom-looking space with mixed cabinet colors. As I mentioned above, a mix of hardware and paint can help bring a space to life and add character and charm. This should be done in a well-balanced way to provide a consistent, curated feel.

 

Integrated Wellness Features

The home is becoming more wellness-centered. Creating spaces to slow down, simplify, and center in health are increasingly popular. Favorite wellness features for kitchens include:

  • beverage stations
  • hidden pantries
  • indoor herb gardens
  • filtered water systems
  • calming breakfast nooks

 

  1. Bathroom Trends

Spa-Like Natural Bathrooms

Bathrooms are becoming retreat spaces and feel more spa-like versus utilitarian. Huge movement toward softening the space by using:

  • warm stone
  • soft lighting
  • plaster finishes
  • natural wood vanities
  • wet rooms
  • freestanding tubs

 

Statement Stone Slabs

Large slab walls and dramatic stone vanities are replacing busy tile patterns.

Especially popular:

  • travertine
  • marble-look quartzite
  • green-veined stone

 

  1. Exterior & Landscaping Trends

Nature-Inspired Exteriors

Exterior palettes are becoming softer, earthier, and more architectural. This is probably the question I am most often asked, “what color should I paint my house?”. Darker exterior colors have been on the rise for some time, and they continue to stay there, but with a bend towards earth tones such as sage green, olive green, warm white, mushroom brown, and charcoal brown.

Trending colors:

 

Landscaping Becomes More Organic

The “perfect manicured yard” is fading and leaning towards more organic landscapes. People want landscaping that feels connected to nature and has lower maintenance.

Trending:

  • native plants
  • meadow-style gardens
  • layered greenery
  • drought-tolerant landscaping
  • edible gardens
  • natural stone paths

 

Outdoor Living Rooms

Backyards are increasingly designed like interior spaces. Indoor-outdoor living was a big trend that was identified during Covid and stuck. It is still growing strongly, and a feature that creates expanded enjoyment and a great ROI when selling.

  • outdoor kitchens
  • lounge furniture
  • fire pits
  • pergolas
  • textured lighting
  • integrated dining spaces

 

The Overall 2026 Aesthetic

The big shift is from cold minimalism, gray everything, and ultra-modern perfection to warmth and layered texture that evoke emotional comfort by using nature-inspired materials, individuality, and timelessness. Designers are calling it organic modern, lived-in luxury, earthy vibrancy, and modern heritage. I hope this overview of the latest 2026 design trends has created some inspiration, whether you’re looking to make some minor, impactful tweaks or to embark on a remodel. Please reach out if you need access to some trusted vendors who can help you bring your vision to life.

Monthly Newsletter May 4, 2026

Market Realities & Opportunities: Equity Growth, Improved Affordability & Overall Stability

With so many headlines about the housing market right now, I wanted to give you a clear, local, data-backed update, specifically breaking down what’s happening in King and Snohomish counties. While the national conversation can feel uncertain, the local numbers tell a much more grounded story.

The biggest disruption we have experienced so far this year was the increase in interest rates since the US conflict with Iran began on February 28th. Let’s put this in perspective. Pre-conflict, rates hit 5.99%, the lowest they have been since the summer of 2022, and they quickly jumped to 6.59% by March 23, 2026, and on April 27th, 2026 settled around 6.3%. All in all, they took a quick jump up, but have seemed to settle over the last few weeks.

While it was awesome to see 5.99% and the recent increase was disappointing, it’s important to also look back and understand that it is still more affordable to buy now compared to last year and the year prior. A year ago, on April 28th, 2025, rates were 6.83%, and on April 29th, 2024, they were 7.4%! This is a dramatic difference in favor of buyers now, coupled with flat prices year-over-year. Check out the charts below for both King and Snohomish Counties for Single-Family Residential Homes, which show the real numbers surrounding monthly payments.

With payments $316 lower in King County year-over-year and $366 lower in Snohomish County, this is a welcome relief for buyers. Further, check out the charts below for the year-over-year savings for Condominiums: $426 and $340, respectively. This is especially beneficial for first-time homebuyers who will often purchase this property type based on affordability.

The Big Picture: Still a Seller’s Market in Both Counties

Despite more inventory coming on the market, both counties are still in seller’s market territory for Single-Family Residential Homes:

  • King County: ~1.8 months of inventory (0-2 months = Seller’s Market, 2-4 = Balanced Market, 4+ = Buyer’s Market)
  • Snohomish County: ~1.7 months of inventory
  • Translation: Even with more listings, there are still not enough homes to meet demand.
  • Sellers should note that the homes that are being sold are properly prepared for market with accurate pricing.

Inventory: Rising, But Not Oversupplied

You may be hearing that inventory is “up”, and that’s true. Here’s what that actually looks like locally for Single Family Residential Homes:

King County:

  • Available homes for sale in March 2026 are up 41% year-over-year .
  • New listings in March 2026 are up 13% year-over-year.
  • Month-to-date in April 2026, available homes for sale are up 19% over March 2026. 

Snohomish County:

  • Available homes for sale in March 2026 are up even more, 46% year-over-year.
  • New listings in March 2026 are up 11% year-over-year.
  • Month to date in April 2026, available homes for sale are also up 19% over March 2026 

What this means:

  • Buyers have more choices than last year, and inventory is building.
  • But we’re still below a balanced market, which is why prices are holding.

 

Home Prices: Stable!

This is where headlines often get it wrong.

King County Single Family Residential:

  • Median price in March 2026: ~$1,000,000 (up 1% year-over-year)
  • Prices are largely stable with slight upward pressure.

Snohomish County Single Family Residential:

  • Median price in March 2026: ~$775,000 (up 1% year-over-year)
  • More affordability, but still seeing modest appreciation.

Key takeaway:
This isn’t a declining market; it’s a normalizing one after rapid growth, with both counties still showing price stability.

Home Equity is High, and Real Estate is a Proven Investment:
The price growth for Single-Family Residential Homes since 2020 in King County has been 35%, and in Snohomish County, 47%. Even more so, prices have increased 84% over the last 10 years in King County and by 100% in Snohomish County.

Further, check out this chart below, which shows the national figures on equity growth since 1956. Real estate has proven to be one of the best long-term investments a person can make, which leads to building strong household and generational wealth.

 

Market Speed: Homes Are Still Moving

Even with more inventory, homes are still selling at a steady pace:

  • King County: ~33 days on market in March and ~ 28 days in April month-to-date.
  • Snohomish County: ~37 days on market in March and ~ 29 days in April month-to-date.

And homes are still selling very close to asking:

  • King County: ~99% of original list price.
  • Snohomish County: ~98% of original list price.

Well-priced homes that are expertly prepared for market are the ones that are moving quickly and seeing less negotiations, especially in desirable neighborhoods.

 

What This Means for You

If you’re a buyer:

  • You have more options than last year.
  • But competition hasn’t disappeared.
  • Waiting for rates to drop could mean more buyers entering at once, which will drive competition and create higher prices.

If you’re a seller:

  • You’re still in a strong position, equity growth has been abundant over the last 5-10 years, consistent over the last 7 decades.
  • Pricing correctly matters more than it did in the peak frenzy.
  • Homes are selling, but buyers are more selective.

 

Bottom Line

The headlines may sound dramatic, but the local reality is much more balanced:

  • Inventory is improving, but is still limited.
  • Prices are holding steady.
  • Demand remains strong across both counties.

If you’re thinking about making a move, or just want to understand how this applies to your specific situation, I’m always happy to help you interpret the numbers. Please reach out if you’d like to learn more. I can apply these figures to your property type, location, and price point to help you understand the market more clearly. Clarity is key to empowering strong decisions, and I always lead with the data to provide sound guidance.

EastsideNorth King CountyNorth Snohomish CountyQuarterly Market UpdatesSeattle MetroSouth King CountySouth Snohomish County April 15, 2026

QUARTERLY REPORTS Q1 2026

The start of the 2026 real estate market saw an increase in new listings, creating more inventory for buyers, flat year-over-year price growth, and volatile interest rate fluctuations. As we finished Q1, prices began their seasonal uptick month-over-month, with pending sales also starting to rise. With more selection, the market is favoring well-prepared homes that are priced accurately.

Flat year-over-year price growth has helped affordability, but the latest rise in interest rates could moderate the month-over-month growth as we head into Q2. The rate of pending sales indicates that, despite rate volatility, buyers are still coming to the table. Seller equity remains high, with over half of all homeowners having at least 50% equity.

If you are curious about how today’s trends align with your real estate goals, please reach out. It is always my goal to help keep my clients informed to empower strong decisions.

Monthly Newsletter April 8, 2026

Why Home Preparation and Staging Matter More Than Ever

In today’s market, buyers have more options, and with affordability challenges, they’re more selective than ever. That means first impressions aren’t just important… they’re everything. In fact, as of March 30th, 2026, month-to-date new listings are up in King County by 23% over February 2026, and up 13% over March 2025. In Snohomish County they are up 27% over February 2026 and up 8% over March 2025. This means your listing needs to stand out to win!


One important thing to note is how the rate of pending sales is tracking with the new listings as we finish out Q1 and head into the busy Q2 months. Pending sales were up 38% in King County and up 30% in Snohomish County month-to-date in March 2026 over February 2026. They were also 10% higher in King County and 8% higher in Snohomish County over March of last year. While this increase is positive, it is critical that home sellers understand the impact that thorough home preparation, strategic staging, and accurate pricing have on buyer decisions. While pending sales are up, there are many listings lingering on the market and not selling, so curated market preparation is key.


Buyers are very much focused on what the monthly payment will be as they reconcile the current interest rate with their down payment. In 2025, according to the National Association of Realtors, down payments were at an all-time high, leaving less money for buyers after closing to make improvements or repairs. This has put pressure on sellers to bring an appealing move-in-ready home to market. This eliminates roadblocks for buyers, so they feel financially secure in their purchase as they take on the new monthly payment and deplete their savings.

This is why the work that is done before the sign goes in the yard is the most impactful and leads to the highest return for sellers. This starts with a detailed walk-through of the property, looking at it through the buyers’ eyes. This will lead the market preparation, along with performing a pre-listing inspection, which will help unearth any issues that we can address before listing. That preparation could result in executing the repairs, pricing accordingly, or having a plan for buyer negotiations ahead of time, eliminating surprises and lack of seller control.

This is an important step in getting the listing ready for market and creating optimal results versus having a buyer discover issues during a pending sale with an inspection contingency when buyer remorse is at its highest! It shifts the power dynamic to the seller through transparency to harness the controllable aspects of negotiations ahead of time. It also ensures they do not lose their buyer haggling over repairs during an inspection negotiation when a buyer cannot or will not take on further expenses after closing due to affordability. The upfront transparency builds trust amongst the parties and enables the buyer to connect with the property with clarity. Instead of the buyer falling in love with the house, making an offer, and then picking it apart during an inspection contingency, and the home losing its luster and/or inviting adversarial negotiations.

Bringing a well-prepared, well-priced, neutral home to market will lead to more buyer traffic, which will often generate stronger offers and possible price escalation through buyer competition. This strategy highlights the home’s value and makes it stand out amongst the crowd. With more listings coming to market each week as we head into the brisk spring market, these steps ensure you make the best first impression and get the highest return.

Recent data from the National Association of Realtors highlights a clear trend: how a home looks and feels directly impacts how it sells.

Buyers Need Help Seeing the Potential
Most buyers aren’t able to visualize a home’s full potential on their own.

  • 83% of buyers’ agents say staging makes it easier for buyers to see a property as their future home.

When a home is thoughtfully prepared, it removes uncertainty, and that confidence often translates into stronger offers.

Staging Can Influence Your Bottom Line
In the Greater Seattle market, where pricing strategy is critical and buyers are more selective, presentation plays a direct role in outcomes.

  • While national data shows staged homes may receive 1–5% higher offers, results in higher-priced markets like ours are often more significant. Many local agents see staging translate into tens of thousands of dollars in added value, along with stronger, cleaner terms. Price matters, and good terms get transactions to close!
  • Staged homes also tend to generate faster early activity, shorter days on market, and fewer price reductions, helping sellers maintain leverage in a more competitive environment.

With affordability top of mind for buyers, creating an emotional connection isn’t just impactful, it can be the difference between a hesitant buyer and a motivated one willing to act decisively.

The Rooms That Matter Most
Not all spaces carry equal weight. Buyers focus heavily on:

  • Living Room
  • Primary Bedroom
  • Kitchen

These are the areas where staging has the greatest impact, and where we focus our efforts to tell the strongest story. Also, if a floor plan could lend to multiple options, we will choose to highlight the use of the rooms towards the latest buyer trends. Such as an at-home office, extended outdoor living space, or guest room, or multi-generational living. If a room has spatial challenges, staging can help solve the use of space for the buyer.

It’s Not Just Staging – It’s Marketing
Today’s buyers start their search online, and expectations are high.

  • 73% of buyers say digital marketing is critical.
  • Video, virtual tours, floorplans, and staging all enhance the on-line experience and inspire buyers to go see the property in-person.

In fact, nearly half of buyers expect homes to look like what they see on TV, and many are disappointed when they don’t. That means your home isn’t just competing with other listings, it’s competing with expectations.

The Investment Is Strategic
The typical staging investment is relatively modest compared to the potential return. It is important that staging is viewed as an investment, not an expense, as an investment provides a return and expenses do not:

  • According to RESA (Real Estate Staging Association), the average investment in staging is $3,500–$4,400, while in the higher-priced Seattle market, that investment often ranges from $3,000 to $7,500+, depending on the size and value of the home.
  • With home values where they are, staging is often less than 1% of the list price, but can have a meaningful impact on buyer demand, speed of sale, and final price. I’ve seen this with my listings and through the eyes of buyers I work with.
  • Staging can vary from whole vacant homes, edit staging, or partial staging; each strategy is built around the specific scenario.

In a more competitive market, this isn’t just an upgrade, it’s a strategy.

The Bottom Line
With more homes on the market and buyers feeling the pressure of affordability, presentation is no longer optional, it’s essential.
Staging helps your home:

  • Stand out online.
  • Connect emotionally with buyers.
  • Compete effectively.
  • Maximize your final sale price.

Thinking About Selling?
I’d be happy to walk you through what preparation and positioning could look like for your home, and help you build a strategy to have your home stand out in today’s market. I have a robust list of trusted contractors, vendors, inspectors, and stagers who help execute this process.

I also have access to quick home equity loan programs through Windermere Ready that help sellers access funds to make repairs and prepare their home to shine. Lastly, I am very involved with helping oversee the process and making it as seamless and profitable as possible. It is always my goal to listen and learn about my clients’ goals and help them chart the best path to success.

LynnwoodMarket UpdateMonthly NewsletterNorth King CountyNorth Snohomish CountyQuarterly Market UpdatesSeattle MetroSouth King CountySouth Snohomish CountyThe More you Know October 29, 2024

QUARTERLY REPORTS Q3 2024

The third quarter saw an increase in inventory, a decrease in interest rates, and continued price stability. Interest rates continue to be volatile, and in Q3 they came down by almost 2 points year over year. This caused more buyers to enter the market and pending sales to rise. The number of available listings has improved after a very tight start to the year. Some sellers have been willing to forego their previous low rates for a new house, creating more movement in the market. The combination of lower rates and more selection should have buyers excited to make a move. Equity levels remain strong in our region as prices have remained steady and appreciated year over year.

 

If you are curious about how market conditions affect you, please reach out. We aim to educate our clients to empower strong decisions.

LivingMarket UpdateMonthly NewsletterThe More you Know October 29, 2024

What is your home worth, and why do you want to know?

Your home is your shelter where you make memories, a large part of your financial nest egg, and a vehicle for creating wealth. Knowing what your home is worth is empowering and important. The reasons that may come up when you need to know your home’s value can have a direct impact on your financial health. Do you need to update your insurance, do some estate, tax, or financial planning, prepare for a re-finance, line of credit, or remodel, or are you considering a move? Relying on accurate home valuations for all of these endeavors will result in the best outcome.

To estimate your home’s value, you can easily jump on a public website that will spit out a value. This is called an AVM (Automated Valuation Model). There are a handful of free ones such as ZillowRedfin, and RealEstimate. These sites are free for the consumer to visit and are based on a unique AI-generated algorithm that is typically a recipe of tax assessment data, CPI figures, market trend data, computer-picked comparable properties, and user-submitted data. They do not take into consideration important value points such as the condition of your home, improvements you’ve made, or nuances of the neighborhood; factors that only an actual person can evaluate.

It is important to note that on all three of these free sites, the algorithm and AVM tool are funded by the advertisers on the site, which are real estate brokers and lenders who want your business. The AVM is the carrot to get you in front of these high-paying advertisers who hope you click to connect so they can convert you into their real estate client. This is unlike the relationship-based business that we foster; this is more of a “sales-y,” transactional approach. Despite the sharks in the water, an AVM is a good starting point, like dipping your toe in the pool, but don’t get bit!

Here are the current AVM (Automated Valuation Model) values for a subject home from four sources (3 free and 1 fee-based). As you can see, the values vary. If you have a need to know the value of your home, don’t rely on an algorithm. According to Zillow, their accuracy varies by 7.49%; that is a huge variation! For example, that is $75,000, either high or low, for a $1M home. Depending on what you are planning for, that inaccuracy can severely cost you.

 

 

The AVMs above vary by 58%. If you apply the average Zillow accuracy percentage, the Zestimate® above could be off by $143,000 or more. It is important in this new world of AI that we do not underestimate the power of the human algorithm. Evaluating a home with all 5 senses, experience, and expertise is critical in establishing a home’s true value. Just like AVMs that vary, it matters who you align with, too. Hungry sharks who are paying to find clients, brokers who sell real estate as a hobby or side hustle, or brokers who are not engaged can all be detrimental. Seek out a professional who is committed to their craft, a student of the market, and up-to-date on market trends when you are assessing your largest asset.

If you want more precise information, consult trusted advisors like us. By selecting accurate, comparable properties and analyzing today’s market trends, we will provide you with a much more comprehensive evaluation of your home’s value relative to its specific features, condition, and location. Please reach out if you are interested in having us tour your home and complete a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) so you can plan for your future with confidence.

LynnwoodMarket UpdateMonthly NewsletterNorth King CountySouth Snohomish County October 8, 2024

Interest Rates Falling & Inventory Rising: Opportunity Knocks!

As we celebrate the start of autumn, the season of change, the leaves on the trees are not the only things that are falling. Interest rates have gradually fallen throughout the year. Just 11 months ago, rates were almost 2 points higher; in the frothy spring market, they were nearly 1.5 points higher. During this same time, the median price in King County and Snohomish County grew. In King County, the median price was recorded at $975,000 this August and at $775,000 in Snohomish County, which are both up 7% year-over-year from August 2023.

Another trend that we are witnessing is a rise in available inventory for sale. August recorded the highest level of available homes for sale since the fall of 2022, two years ago. There were 3,105 available homes for sale in King County in August 2024 compared to 1,207 in January 2024, and 1,147 in Snohomish County in August 2024 compared to 374 in January 2024.

The combination of lower borrowing costs and more selection should be a welcome change for buyers. When the inventory was much tighter in the first half of 2024 and interest rates were higher, prices were increasing at a rapid rate. We are starting to see new buyers enter the market and some who have sidelined themselves return. This indicates that prices will remain stable as we finish out 2024.

Currently, buyers have more selection and the opportunity to grab a lower monthly payment. As you can see from the chart below, buyers have a significant opportunity to afford a higher price point at a lower rate or stay at the same price point and have a lower monthly payment. The reduction in rate over the last year is reducing monthly payments and creating great long-term savings over the life of the loan. The rule of thumb for affordability is a 1-point shift in rate affects a buyer’s buying power by 10%. For example, a home priced at $800,000 with a 7% interest rate will have a similar monthly payment as a home at $880,000 with a 6% rate.

 

The hesitation we are seeing in the marketplace is a desire for rates to come down even further. The good news is that they are predicted to continue this gradual decline. Where we are concerned is a decrease in selection. If we look at seasonality, it is common for inventory to be low in the first half of the year, especially in Q1 (see the King & Snohomish graphs above). If rates continue their slide and fewer new listings come to market, buyers will find themselves duking it out in 2025. Right now, while there are multiple offers on some properties, there are more properties that are being negotiated into contracts with one buyer.

This has created a more nimble market, particularly for buyers who also have to sell their homes to reposition their equity into a downpayment. While tight inventory provides great leverage for a seller, many sellers are also buyers. Analyzing the market conditions to align the environmental influences to create the best possible outcome for your goals is paramount, and it will not be the same for everyone. Depending on our client’s goals, timing can vary.

Oh, and another sentiment we often hear is, “Will rates under 5% ever be back?” That is rather unlikely and will go down as a historic time in our economy. With that said, if you are in your “forever home” and you captured a historically low rate, kudos to you! Truly, so awesome! If you are not in the home that is right for you, now may be the time to curate a plan to get you into your next home. If homes were selling at a rapid rate and prices were appreciating this last spring with 10% less buyer power, we imagine next spring will be much of the same, if not more.

One final item to note is the election. History shows that post-election year markets are brisk with sales and experience price growth and rate decreases. We are paying attention to key indicators such as inflation figures, unemployment measurements, the gap between the 10-year treasury yield and mortgage rates, and our local market conditions in order to provide our clients with the most accurate and up-to-date information to empower strong decisions.

Are you curious how all of this affects you? Real estate is the number one tool for building wealth, and you also get to live there. We think that is pretty important, and we love nothing more than providing valuable insights, having strategic conversations, and helping people align their homes with their lives. Home is where the heart is and also where your nest egg has the most reliable long-term growth. Please reach out if you’d like to dig into the details and apply them to your housing and investment goals.

EastsideLynnwoodMarket UpdateMonthly NewsletterNorth King CountyNorth Snohomish County September 26, 2024

End of Summer Market Update

Summer 2024 welcomed an increase in available inventory, a drop in interest rates, and continued price stability, which has upheld strong home equity levels. After a double-digit ramp-up in price appreciation in the first half of 2024, prices have slightly come off the peak of May 2024 and found stability. This trend is historically consistent with seasonal patterns and nothing to be alarmed about.

Increased selection for buyers was a welcome relief as inventory was extremely tight in the spring. While there are still homes getting multiple offers and escalating, we have also seen some buyers make purchases contingent on the sale of their current home. The market has become a bit more nimble for buyer’s terms in some cases. It is important to understand the nuances of each location, product, and price point, as the environment can vary which would indicate whether a buyer would need to compete or be able to negotiate more.

These trends are coupled with rates dropping below 7% in June and they have recently sat in the mid-6%. Rates were a point and a half higher in October 2023; this is a great improvement! We anticipate rates slowly dropping further which will put upward pressure on prices. The Fed meets again this month and if rates come down even more, buyer activity will increase. Between the lower rates and higher inventory, buyers should be excited and ready to act!

As you can see from the chart below, this shift in rate directly relates to a buyer’s monthly payment. Homes are expensive, so the cost to carry a loan is critical. These recent drops are helping out and should be paid close attention to as buyers are payment-driven in most cases. The opportunity to secure a home now with today’s rate could mean a buyer could enjoy a stable price and choose to re-finance or adjust to a lower rate later keeping their same basis. Buyers should also understand that homeownership is a key component to building wealth.


We anticipate a healthy late summer and fall market. Over the Labor Day Weekend, buyer traffic was busy despite the holiday and activity is bubbling up. The lower rates are helping some folks jump off the fence. Even some sellers are getting ready to sell and relinquish their lower rate, so they can move to a home that better fits their needs. We’re excited about the real estate market for the remainder of 2024 and into 2025. If you are curious about how the trends relate to your goals, please reach out. We are committed to staying connected and up-to-date on the latest trends so our clients make well-informed decisions.

Market UpdateMonthly Newsletter July 8, 2024

Half Way Through 2024: Mid-Year Opportunities in the Real Estate Market

As we approach the mid-point of the year, we want to take a moment to explain all that has happened in the 2024 real estate market and where we might be headed. We have had strong price growth since December 2023, and in May 2024 prices matched the peak we saw in spring 2022. The interest rate increase and inflation-induced correction that took place in the spring of 2022 has shown very strong signs of recovery and stabilization. The chart below shows the last 17 months of median prices in both King and Snohomish Counties and also tracks the ebb and flow of interest rates.

Despite interest rates fluctuating between 6.75-7.5% from January through May 2024, price growth has been on an upward trajectory. Most recently, rates have hovered close to 7%. Inventory started the year very low! In King County, there were only 1,324 new listings in January and 534 in Snohomish County. This trend continued throughout Q1 2024 and has started to increase in Q2. In May 2024 there were 3,245 new listings in King County and 1,272 in Snohomish County. That was a 145% increase in King County from January to May and 138% in Snohomish County. Markedly, there was a 27% jump in new listings from April 2024 to May 2024 in King County and 34% in Snohomish County.

Adequate selection for buyers was limited, which drove prices up over the past five months. Buyers are starting to see some relief! There is healthy net in-migration into the Greater Seattle area, a stable job market, and the Millennial generation is out in force making their first purchases and some even moving up from their first homes. Since December 2023, the median price in King and Snohomish Counties has increased by 21%. One must take seasonality into account which elevates that growth, but there has certainly been a recovery in home values in the correction. Sellers are sitting on tons of equity as it was measured in November 2023 that homeowners in King County had at least 60% home equity and 57.5% in Snohomish County. This figure does not take into account the price growth we have seen in 2024 thus far.

So, what does all of this mean going forward? We typically will reach our seasonal peak in prices in May or June. This phenomenon is a result of price growth decelerating due to inventory growth over the second half of the year. The rate of price growth will slow as more homes come to market; this is not price depreciation, but deceleration. Homeowners are standing on the shoulders of immense growth over the last 5 months and need to keep that and the long-term growth in perspective. If the rapid rate of price growth continued, it would not be sustainable and would create market volatility.  Moderation and price stability benefit the overall health of the real estate market and economy over prolonged extreme price increases.

As we head into the summer months, we anticipate more selection for buyers which will temper price growth. Sellers will enjoy the gains that have been made over the last 2 years and so far in 2024, not to mention the last 10 years. The recent increase in inventory has given buyers more opportunities to make a move. The constriction we started the year off with was restrictive for some buyers to enter the market and we see that changing. Buyers who were discouraged earlier this year may consider re-engaging so they can benefit from the increase in selection.

As far as interest rates, experts predict they will slowly recede and be dependent on inflation calming which has been stubborn. Affordability has been a dance of balancing home prices, rates, and monthly payments. Some buyers have been creative with rate buy-downs to manage the monthly expense, and some are purchasing based on today’s rates with the hope of re-financing in the future. A sound piece of advice for buyers is to buy based on payment, not on the peak of what you can qualify for. Your monthly output needs to be sustainable and somewhat comfortable to make sense.

Real estate is an investment and a key component to building wealth. While it might seem scary or risky to make a purchase, the long-term gains are favorable in comparison to other investment vehicles. Plus, you get to live in your home, love your home, and make memories in your home while it creates a nest egg. Life changes create reasons to move. Assessing where you want to be and how it matches your lifestyle is where the decision-making starts. If you have experienced some life changes and are curious about how the market relates to your housing goals, please reach out. It is our goal to help keep our clients informed and empower strong decisions.