Snowflake Lane: Is it too early?
Nah…it’s time for holiday music, wrapping paper and eggnog! Let’s do it!
If you’ve never been to Snowflake Lane it is an experience of epic proportions with a huge parade, shopping and lots of singing and dancing! And don’t forget Santa!!
Experience the wonder of falling snow, dazzling lights, festive music, toy drummers, and dancers in this complimentary nightly parade of holiday floats. The parade starts between Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square from NE 4th to NE 8th Streets every night at 7 pm. Park in any of the free parking garages and choose your favorite spot on the sidewalk to see the show.
Have a Wonderful Holiday
gratitude
noun.
Appreciating what you already have.
Being present in the moment.
Also comes with pumpkin pie.
Lauren’s Pumpkin Pie
1 recipe pastry for a 9 inch double crust pie
½ cup white sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon lemon zest
5 cups peeled and sliced pears
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Place a baking sheet on the bottom oven rack.
Combine sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and lemon zest in mixing bowl. Roll out half the pastry and line a 9-inch pie pan.
Arrange pear slices in layers in the pastry-lined pan, sprinkling the sugar mixture over each layer. Dot with butter and sprinkle with lemon juice.
Roll out remaining dough for the top crust. Use your finger dipped in a small bowl of water to moisten the rim of the bottom crust. Place top crust over filling, and trim edge using kitchen shears or a sharp paring knife. Fold edge under bottom crust, pressing to seal. Flute edge. Cut slits in top crust to allow steam to escape.
Bake in the preheated oven on the baking sheet for 10 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), and bake until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly, 35 to 40 minutes longer. Allow to cool several hours before serving.
NEW TO MARKET: Sundance at Klahanie
Sundance at Klahanie
Open House: October 24th from 1:30pm to 3:30pm
You'll love life at Sundance at Klahanie! This immaculate ground floor unit has it all: fresh interior paint, all new carpet, in-unit laundry, an extra storage unit, designated covered parking, and a desirable 3-bedroom layout. Whip up tasty meals in the spacious kitchen, complete with an eating bar, ample storage and a roomy pantry (rare in a condo)! Relax on the private patio with park-like green views, cozy up next to the gas fireplace with a good book, or retreat to the spacious owner's suite, boasting dual closets and an ensuite full bath. Incredible community with top amenities: a gym, pool, hot tub and dues that include W/S/G! Set in a peaceful location that feels away from it all, yet is just mins to dining, groceries, parks, top schools and more!
23803 55th Avenue W | Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
3 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • 1,060sf
Offered at $435,500
Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes and More
What are you doing for spooky season? Whether you’re looking to do apple picking and pressing at an apple orchard or razor clam digging on the coast, it’s that time of year when we all wander towards the Halloween hotspot; Pumpkin Patches.
It’s time to get out your flannels, slide into your waterproof boots and head out to pick your favorite pumpkin, sharpen your carving tools and head out for an adventure. SeattlePI has an amazing list of things to do to celebrate the autumn!
Dream Home Survey
Since the initial quarantines of COVID-19 and now the aftermath of continued caution; most desirable home amenities look quite different than even 5 years ago. A home office used to be relegated to sprawling suburban homes for executives and accent spaces that almost no one used, like the old kitchen office space where Mom paid bills and organized her recipes.
The lifestyle changes that COVID-19 has born, do not seem to be going away all too soon and homebuyers are keen to find a work/life balance, at home. Flexible spaces in newer townhomes are becoming quite common in the Townhome trend, with garage level rooms that can be used as an office, guest room – or both.
During the early months of lockdown, quarantines, and sheltering in place, a survey called The America at Home Study was launched online to understand the design changes consumers would want in new communities and homes. On the heels of this research, The America at Home Study Concept Home was born, and they named it Barnaby.
The concept, design, and the forethought of looking forward to something more tangible than paint colors and open vs. closed kitchen cabinets warrants deep consideration. Does your home still serve most of your needs? Each home has it’s comprises, but sometimes they start to add up and you might find yourself living in a functionally obsolescent situation.
If you are dreaming of a new home that better serves your lifestyle and footprint, give me a call and let’s start planning your next move.
A Fall Checklist Before Winter Sets In
Is the fall maintenance of your home on point? If not, here are some helpful tips to get you started before winter. According to HouseLogic.com, when the last of summer's heat is a faint memory, and you're pulling out your hoodies more than your shorts, it's time to tackle a few simple chores that'll make winter more pleasant and prevent some nasty surprises next spring. From cleaning a storing your lawn mower to pruning plants in your garden, this checklist will keep you moving forward as winter sets in.
SOLD: Phantom Lake Craftsman by MN Custom Homes
What a pleasure it has been to watch this beauty take shape! From a hole in the ground at the beginning of the year, to 4,300+ finished and customized square feet today, this one really shines. Stellar work by MN Custom Homes and a HUGE congratulations to my wonderful repeat clients! Wishing you a lifetime of happy memories in your gorgeous dream home!
Phantom Lake Craftsman by MN Custom Homes
MN Custom Homes presents a craftsman design in the convenient Phantom Lake neighborhood. Entertainment spaces include two story great room, outdoor covered living space with BBQ hook up and vaulted bonus room. Private main floor guest suite. Dedicated office and dining room. Master suite with stunning 5-piece bath and heated floors. 3 car wide garage. 10' ceilings on the main and 9' ceilings upstairs. Convenient access to I-90, Microsoft campus and DT Bellevue. Bellevue Schools, Spiritridge Elementary.
5 Bedrooms • 4.5 Bathrooms • 4,315sf
SOLD at $2,895,000
SOLD: Ballard Townhome
There's truly nothing better than assisting repeat clients on the sale of their homes...homes that you sold them long ago!
Ballard Townhome
Effortlessly chic, perfectly situated and 4-Star Built Green - this townhome truly has it all! Tasteful details can be found at every turn in this beautifully modern Ballard home: sleek concrete and hardwood floors, an open layout made for entertaining with tons of great natural light, efficient radiant in-floor heat and a stunning chef's kitchen complete with quartz counters, gas cooking and tons of storage space. Two generously-sized bedrooms on the middle level while the luxurious primary encompasses the top floor, complete with walk-in closet and spa-like ensuite full bath. Savor great sunsets from the HUGE rooftop deck plumbed with water and gas. No HOA and conveniently just blocks from Ballard fun: top-notch dining, breweries, Farmers Market, transit and more!
1139 A NW 56th Street | Seattle, WA 98107
3 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • 1,530sf
SOLD at $825,000
SOLD: New Rainer Vista
New Rainier Vista
Life is just better in Columbia City! This end-unit townhome at desirable New Rainier Vista is full of light with a rare 4-bedroom layout. Bright and open main level is made for entertaining - spacious living areas, covered deck, bamboo floors, full-size dining room (no cramped eating area here!) and a beautiful chef's kitchen with gas cooking, stainless appliances, and a center island. Three bedrooms upstairs including the owner's suite with vaulted ceilings, views of downtown Bellevue and the Cascades, a walk-in closet, and an ensuite bath. The lower-level bedroom makes for a great office or guest room with access to a beautiful fenced-in garden patio. A rare 2-car garage makes it easy to leave the car at home & stroll to nearby dining, shops, groceries, parks & light rail.
4327 Jill Place S. | Seattle, WA 98108
4 Bedrooms • 2.25 Bathrooms • 2020sf
SOLD at $850,000
4327 Jill Place S. | Seattle, WA 98108
4 Bedrooms • 2.25 Bathrooms • 2020sf
Offered at $850,000
Dual Price Drop: The Seaboard
Seaboard Condo, #1000
Bask in city views from this freshly painted, beautifully updated 1 bedroom loft unit at the historic Seaboard building, fully renovated in 2001! Live the good life with A/C, tons of storage, no rental cap, AirBNB potential, hardwood floors, built-ins and a tastefully appointed chef's kitchen complete with Viking gas range, stainless appliances, Subzero fridge, granite counters and an eating bar. Large windows and vaulted ceilings fill the space with all-day light. Chill up on the rooftop deck and savor stunning skyline views, then head out to explore some of Seattle's best dining, bars, nightlife, shops & more - all right outside your doorstep! Great investment potential plus concierge and in-unit washer/dryer. The city life is calling!
1500 4th Avenue #1000 | Seattle, WA 98101
1 Bedroom • 1 Bathroom • 1,106sf
Offered at $498,000
Seaboard Condo, #800
Live at the heart of downtown! Some of the city's best dining, shopping, and nightlife are right outside your doorstep at the historic Seaboard Building, fully renovated in 2001! This studio unit lives large and boasts stunning, tasteful updates: fresh paint, walnut plank flooring, high-end Subzero and Viking kitchen appliances, a walk-in closet, A/C and more. Tons of space to spread out and relax at your in-city retreat with ample sunlight shining through big windows all day. Watch the city come to life from your private balcony or the rooftop deck then head out to nearby restaurants, shops, bars, light rail and more. Dues cover W/S/G, no rental cap, AirBNB approved, and a helpful concierge! Live the good life in bustling downtown!
1500 4th Avenue #800 | Seattle, WA 98101
Studio • 1 Bathroom • 863sf
Offered at $455,000
Just Listed: Mountlake Terrace Cottage
JUST LISTED - Offered at $475,000
23803 55th Ave West, Mountlake Terrace
Just minutes to the blossoming center of Mountlake Terrace - this affordable home is cute as a button & has it all! Inviting living spaces greet you w/ warm natural light & a cozy gas fireplace, while the kitchen has great cabinet space and a breakfast nook. 2 generously-sized bedrooms plus a full bath give you just the right amount of space. Relax in the spacious and private fenced backyard w/ ample driveway parking & room for pets, gardens, BBQs & play. Conveniently located close to great dining, shops, parks, schools & more, + just mins away from I-5, future light rail, transit lines & park-n-ride. Truly an unbeatable opportunity for first time homebuyers or investors!
Join us Saturday from 12-3pm for an open house or give us a call and we'd be glad to schedule a private tour!
This one won't be around long...
Death by Decor: 5 Telltale Signs a Design Trend Is All but Over
How do you tell if a design trend is on point or on its way out? According to Realtor.com there are five very easy ways to figure it out.
Take sliding barn doors, for example. A few years back, they were all the rage. By 2017, they were ubiquitous. And now? Now they’re just worn-out. The same might be said for other recent hall-of-fame fads such as Edison bulbs, succulents, and Mason jars.
So how can you tell a decor trend’s on the outs? For starters:
1. It’s all over HGTV
Call it the Chip and Joanna Gaines effect: When a trend’s in constant rotation on home improvement shows, you know it’s probably not long for this world.
“I know a trend is heading toward life support when I see it in mass market retail or it’s become ubiquitous on HGTV,” says Susan Matthews, a Realtor® with Carolina One Real Estate, in Mount Pleasant, SC. After all, she says, “These shows are filmed months in advance.”
Terence Michael, who (fascinatingly) works as both a mortgage broker and a TV and film producer in Los Angeles, couldn’t agree more: “Suddenly my set dressers want everything to be gold and brass and navy blue,” he says. But by the time the show actually airs, a previously current trend like that combo will be so yesterday.
2. It’s in all the catalogs
Love that reclaimed wood-meets-industrial look, but unsure if it’ll still be in style next season? For another clue that a design trend is on its last legs, just check your mailbox.
“When all the catalogs in your mailbox feature the same trend, you know the trend is dying a slow but comfortable death,” says Lance Marrs, a broker at Living Room Realty, in Portland, OR.
3. It’s permeated the big-box chains
Experts are quite unanimous on this one: When a trend’s filtered down to Target, Lowe’s, or Ross, you know it’s nearing the end.
For example, “I knew white subway tile was on the outs when it became the least expensive option at Home Depot,” says Justin Riordan, principal at Spade and Archer. (Ditto that for “anything Tuscan,” Harmon says, which she says is a mainstay of home improvement stores.)
Their take? If you can buy it alongside your toilet paper and La Croix, it’s probably no longer really on trend.
4. The price plummets
When a trend’s been there, done that, you’ll see it displayed en masse at discount retailers, Harmon says.
These closeout businesses do “opportunity buys,” Harmon says, meaning they’ll purchase a lot of product at a time because it’s been sitting unsold in a designer’s warehouse for some time.
“If the designer could sell the product at market to retailers full price, trust me, they would,” Harmon says.
5. It shows up beyond interior decor
When a trendy pattern such as the chevron or pineapples starts cropping up in multiple media (think home decor and clothing and office supplies), “it’s a sign of death,” Harmon says.
“It’s been selling well for a while so big retailers are splattering it on everything,” she says. “As soon as it’s done blowing up, it’s over.”
In reality, of course, trends do last longer than a single season.
“Every season, magazines want what’s new, but most people don’t shop that way,” Scott notes.
In fact, even the experts agree that following trends can be unsustainable; once everyone freaks out about, say, charcoal and eggplant, the pendulum swings back to light and bright. And then there’s the obvious: Changing up your home decor to follow every of-the-moment design whim can be exhausting and expensive.
Perhaps the best real-life advice, according to Realtor.com? Find a style you like, stick to it, and freshen it up when you get bored.
NEW TO MARKET: Developers Dream
Developers Dream
Calling all builders and developers! Incredible opportunity to build on a rare shy half-acre, flat in-city lot. Fantastic Northgate location just down the road from the light rail opening this fall and NHL practice arena! Established fruit trees & a pond on the lot make this a tranquil location to build your dream home, or homes! Currently there are two 2 bed/1 bath fixer uppers located on the property, both with utilities in place and separate gas/electric meters. Detached 2-car garage includes shop area with a wood stove. Private location w/ driveway already installed and a shed. Water, sewer, gas & electric already on property. Unbeatable location & immense value! Sold as-is.
11035 17th Avenue NE | Seattle, WA 98125
2 Bedrooms • 1 Bathroom • 1,150sf
Offered at $1,200,000
Ready for Autumn
My favorite time to stage and decorate is Autumn! The weather starts to turn cooler, families gather for one last outdoor dinner, and we get to decorate porches, kitchens, and more with everything pumpkin. And yes, pumpkin spice is delicious! What are your autumn happies?
NEW TO MARKET: New Rainier Vista
New Rainier Vista
Life is just better in Columbia City! This end-unit townhome at desirable New Rainier Vista is full of light with a rare 4-bedroom layout. Bright and open main level is made for entertaining - spacious living areas, covered deck, bamboo floors, full-size dining room (no cramped eating area here!) and a beautiful chef's kitchen with gas cooking, stainless appliances, and a center island. Three bedrooms upstairs including the owner's suite with vaulted ceilings, views of downtown Bellevue and the Cascades, a walk-in closet, and an ensuite bath. The lower-level bedroom makes for a great office or guest room with access to a beautiful fenced-in garden patio. A rare 2-car garage makes it easy to leave the car at home & stroll to nearby dining, shops, groceries, parks & light rail.
4327 Jill Place S. | Seattle, WA 98108
4 Bedrooms • 2.25 Bathrooms • 2020sf
Offered at $850,000
4327 Jill Place S. | Seattle, WA 98108
4 Bedrooms • 2.25 Bathrooms • 2020sf
Offered at $850,000
SOLD with Repeat Buyers
SOLD! Congratulations to my wonderful repeat buyers and their family on the purchase of this beauty. It was an honor to get to work with you again! Wishing you many happy memories in your new home.
The best part of this sale is that we did not have to compete! Yes, you read that right! I've been seeing a few more homes sit past their offer review dates and we were lucky enough to snatch this one up without competition or a bidding war. If you've given up on the market, let's talk. It's still very possible to get into your dream home!
Seattle’s Hot Housing Market
According to the Seattle Times, in one of the most expensive housing markets in the country, nearly one in four homes is selling for all cash.
Between January and April, 23.8% of home sales in the Seattle area went to buyers paying all cash, according to an analysis of county property records by Redfin. The level of cash purchases is up slightly from about 22% in the same period last year and roughly 20% in 2019. Nationally, the share of all-cash home buys — 30% — hit a level last seen in 2014, when cash deals were soaring in the years following the housing crash. In many of those markets, of course, it takes a lot less cash.
Local brokers say the tech industry, boasting employees with high salaries and stock-option packages, is a driving force of cash purchases here. Cash shoppers looking for their own home or second homes are drawn to some of the area’s priciest neighborhoods, while investors may pay all cash to acquire midpriced rental properties that can turn a profit, agents said.
Double Listings at the Seaboard
Seaboard Condo, #1000
Bask in city views from this freshly painted, beautifully updated 1 bedroom loft unit at the historic Seaboard building, fully renovated in 2001! Live the good life with A/C, tons of storage, no rental cap, AirBNB potential, hardwood floors, built-ins and a tastefully appointed chef's kitchen complete with Viking gas range, stainless appliances, Subzero fridge, granite counters and an eating bar. Large windows and vaulted ceilings fill the space with all-day light. Chill up on the rooftop deck and savor stunning skyline views, then head out to explore some of Seattle's best dining, bars, nightlife, shops & more - all right outside your doorstep! Great investment potential plus concierge and in-unit washer/dryer. The city life is calling!
1500 4th Avenue #1000 | Seattle, WA 98101
1 Bedroom • 1 Bathroom • 1,106sf
Offered at $525,000
Seaboard Condo, #800
Live at the heart of downtown! Some of the city's best dining, shopping, and nightlife are right outside your doorstep at the historic Seaboard Building, fully renovated in 2001! This studio unit lives large and boasts stunning, tasteful updates: fresh paint, walnut plank flooring, high-end Subzero and Viking kitchen appliances, a walk-in closet, A/C and more. Tons of space to spread out and relax at your in-city retreat with ample sunlight shining through big windows all day. Watch the city come to life from your private balcony or the rooftop deck then head out to nearby restaurants, shops, bars, light rail and more. Dues cover W/S/G, no rental cap, AirBNB approved, and a helpful concierge! Live the good life in bustling downtown!
1500 4th Avenue #800 | Seattle, WA 98101
Studio • 1 Bathroom • 863sf
Offered at $499,000