Mukilteo • Neighborhood Profiles • July 5, 2017

Mukilteo

by Cori Whitaker

Welcome to Mukilteo!

Known for its supportive, strong community and gorgeous waterfront location, Mukilteo is a destination for work, play, and fun! Brimming with excellent city amenities to take advantage of and several top-notch opportunities for outdoor adventure, Muktileo is ready to be explored. Whether you’re looking for a scenic, relaxing day at the beach, a day of shopping, or hoping to head out for a day of mountain biking, you can find it all in this city by the sea.

Mukilteo is also known for its aviation-focused museums, jobs, and events. Home to some excellent aviation museums, a Boeing manufacturing plant, tens of thousands of jobs in the aviation industry and more, Mukilteo is the ideal place to visit or live in whether you’re trying to inspire an interest in aviation, an aviation enthusiasts, or someone with a career in aviation. Mukilteo draws some of the world’s and regional high tech, aeronautic, medical, and innovative industry. That brings a cornucopia of brilliant minds to this community.

When it comes to real estate in Mukilteo, there’s something for everyone. Home to a diverse range of real estate, you can find everything from smaller starter homes to elaborate residences with impressive views of the Puget Sound.

Getting Out & About

“Who wouldn’t want to be from the MUK! The sticker says it all. Mukilteo is a quaint community that not many people know about and even fewer who know how to pronounce the name. I happen to think one of the best beaches in Snohomish county is right in the MUK. Our beach features built in fire pits, a fantastic beach side playground, a substantial shelter perfect for parties all year round, boat launch, lighthouse, plus ice cream and fish & chips within walking distance to the beach.” – Jenny E

“Love love love Big Gulch trail. One minute you’re in the middle of civilization and the next you’re far far away in a place that could be hundreds of miles away. Just a small sign marks the trail head across from the fire department. I’ve spent many hours breathing, thinking, singing on that trail!!” –Janet B

There is also the garden club, historical society, orchestra and the landmark graveyard. Headstones tell the story of our founder’s lives and untimely deaths including the young from influenza and those that built and called Mukilteo “good camping spot” their permanent home.

Commuting from Mukilteo

Train, ferry, plane, bus, bike, what did I miss… oh, yes cars too. Located at the tip of I-5 & I-405 and also easily accessible to 99, commuters have a variety of routes to choose from to get just about anywhere. Mukilteo offers a myriad of options for commuting, including the ferry that runs between Mukilteo and Clinton on Whidbey Island. You can view the ferry schedule here!

The Sounder Commuter train stops in Mukilteo daily on its way to and from Seattle to Everett. Click here to view the Sounder Train morning and evening schedules for the Seattle to Everett commute.

Homes in Mukilteo

“Mukilteo offers a very wide range of homes. From the most expensive and elaborate that enjoy unique spectacular views of the Olympic Mountains, Islands, and Puget Sound waters with its ever changing nautical and aquatic traffic. Mukilteo also offers many affordable carefree communities of well maintained condominiums. In between the most elaborate homes and lovely condos there is a choice of every price range and neighborhood in between. In other words there is a place for everyone on Mukilteo.” -Greg B

Lynnwood • Neighborhood Profiles • June 27, 2017

Our 12 Favorite Locally Recommended Lynnwood Restaurants

by Cori Whitaker

When it comes to restaurants in Lynnwood, no one knows more about the best spots around than our locals at Windermere Real Estate/North! From pizza and Asian cuisine to some excellent happy hours, they have the inside scoop on all of the top places to get your grub on!

Here is a list of our 12 favorite locally recommended Lynnwood restaurants:

BEER & HAPPY HOURS

Indigo Kitchen and Alehouse

Located at 2902 164th St. SW Lynnwood, WA 98087
Hours: 11:00a-1:00a Monday-Friday; 9:00a-1:00a Saturday-Sunday; Happy Hour: 3:00p-6:00p & 10:00p-12:00a Sunday-Saturday

A favorite among Yvette, Brian, and Tonya, Indigo serves up great comfort food and a rotating list of draft brews. “I like Indigo; they have a great happy hour,” Yvette shares. Tonya seconds that notion, with the addition that her “…favorite Lynnwood restaurant is Indigo for lunch and dinner…” and the locals can’t be wrong!

Special Brews

Located at 14608 WA-99 Lynnwood, WA 98087
Hours: 11:00a-10:00p Monday-Thursday; 11:00a-11:00p Friday-Saturday; 12:00p-8:00p Sunday

According to Rory, “for beer/cider, definitely hit Special Brews. Their selection is unreasonably large but the bartenders will always help you choose. And some local take out places deliver there,” making this tavern a win-win all around.

Hop Jack’s

Located at 19702 WA-99 #100 Lynnwood, WA 98036
Hours: 11:00a-11:00p Monday-Thursday; 11:00a-12:00a Friday; 8:00a-12:00a Saturday; 8:00a-11:00p Sunday; Happy Hour: 2:00p-6:00p & 9:00p-close Sunday-Saturday

Beat the summer heat with a refreshing drink from Hop Jack’s. “Hop Jack’s has a fantastic happy hour,” says Andrea. Indeed, with a beer tower pouring local brews at a frosty 34 degrees and affordable cocktails made with real fruit, this bar’s happy hour is an experience in itself.

Big T’s Moonshine BBQ

Located at 4911 196th St. SW Lynnwood, WA 98036
Hours: 11:00a-12:00a Sunday-Saturday; Happy Hour: 3:00p-6:00p & 9:00p-12:00a Sunday-Saturday

Take a trip to the wild west without ever leaving Lynnwood at Moonshine BBQ. “Moonshine BBQ on 196th has a great outdoor patio and happy hour,” shares Brian. With 16 northwest drafts, crafted moonshine and smoked barbeque pairings, and an old-fashioned saloon vibe, you can spend happy hour getting in touch with your inner cowboy!

WINGS & MORE

Cask & Trotter

Located at 18411 WA-99 Lynnwood, WA 98037
Hours: 11:00a-11:00p Monday-Wednesday; 11:00p-2:00a Thursday-Sunday

Chow down on classic BBQ burgers, sandwiches, and more while enjoying a full bar and happy hour at this premier Lynnwood barbeque joint. Andrea’s menu suggestion? “Cask & Trotter has the best wings ever!”

Big E Ales

Located at 5030 208th St. SW A Lynnwood, WA 98036
Hours: 11:30a-10:00p Tuesday-Saturday; closed Sunday-Monday

A unique and cozy Lynnwood brewpub, “Ellersick Brewery (aka Big E Ales),” as Brian notes, is a fantastic neighborhood hangout. “Wednesday night is wing night at Ellersick Brewery which is always a great place to meet up with friends,” Tonya shares. So grab the gang and head down to Big E Ales for some good beer, good grub, and good times!

B3 Breakfast & Burger Bar

Located at 4027 196th St. SW Lynnwood, WA 98036
Hours: 7:00a-9:00p Tuesday-Sunday; 7:00a-3:00p Monday

A recommended breakfast spot by Tonya, B3 Breakfast & Burger Bar is truly one-of-a-kind. Their menu includes unique items like Chicken N’ Savory Waffles as well as classic light breakfasts, specials, and gourmet burgers for lunch. If you want to wake up with some delicious flavors, check out B3 in the morning!

PIZZA

The Rock Wood Fired Kitchen

Located at 4010 196th St. SW Lynnwood, WA 98036
Hours: 11:30a-12:00a Sunday-Saturday

“Lynnwood has a couple of great pizza joints that you can’t beat,” shares Stefanie. “The Rock [for example] brews their own beer with seasonal selections and they do a killer wood fired pizza! My favorite is the ‘Crazy Train,’” which includes awesome toppings like hot cherry peppers and caramelized onions; definitely not to miss!

Zeeks Pizza

Located at 4309 196th St. SW Lynnwood, WA 98036
Hours: 11:00a-10:00p Sunday-Saturday

Another spot in Lynnwood for premium pies is Zeeks. “Zeeks pizza is also conveniently located and has a premium selection of beer and wine,” says Stefanie. “Can’t go wrong with their pizza either. Menu adapts with the season!”

ASIAN

O2 Sushi

Located at 18601 WA-99 #100 Lynnwood, WA 98037
Hours: 11:30a-2:30p (Lunch) & 5:00p-12:00a (Dinner) Tuesday-Saturday; 12:00p-9:00p Sunday; closed Monday

Recommended by Yvette for its great food and karaoke, O2 Sushi is a must. Bento boxes, happy hours, and tons of delectable sushi dishes make this place ideal for any adventurous foodie!

Silver Spoon Thai Restaurant & Bar

Located at 3828 196th St. SW Lynnwood, WA 98036
Hours: 11:00a-10:30p Sunday-Thursday; 11:00a-11:30p Friday-Saturday

For the best Thai food in Lynnwood, Brian suggests Silver Spoon. With an atmosphere of relaxed elegance and an array of great-tasting Thai dishes, this spot is perfect for a quiet date or nice family meal.

Muto Izakaya

Located at 19505 44th Ave. W K Lynnwood, WA 98036
Hours: 11:30a-2:30p & 5:00p-10:30p Monday-Friday; 12:00p-10:30p Saturday; 5:00p-9:00p Sunday

Also recommended by Brian, Muto Izakaya is one of Lynnwood’s hidden food gems. Authentic, delicious ramen and other dishes, plus a welcoming, homey ambiance, keeps the locals returning again and again.

Lynnwood • Neighborhood Profiles • June 25, 2017

11 Awesome City Conveniences You Didn’t Know Were in Lynnwood

by Cori Whitaker

Lynnwood’s city conveniences are exceptional, and from top-notch transportation options to recreation opportunities, it’s packed with some excellent spots that can improve your day!

Here are 11 awesome city conveniences you might not have known were in Lynnwood:

TRANSIT

When it comes to getting around, Jen B knows trails and park-and-rides that make commuting a breeze! For example, summer is great for taking advantage of the Interurban Trail:

“Take a bike ride or jog along the Interurban Trail,” says Jen. “Linking North Seattle to South Everett, this is a great regional connector trail!”

Another suggestion? Commuters should definitely be taking advantage of the Lynnwood Transit Center, a convenient park-and-ride that features 1,368 parking spaces, lockers, a ride store, and more. Also, for those living in Lynnwood or those with plans to move to Lynnwood, you’re in luck—the Link Light Rail is coming to Lynnwood! Currently, the light rail runs from Angle Lake (just past the SeaTac Airport) to the University of Washington, but by 2023, the Light Rail will have four new station locations added from Northgate to Lynnwood. New stations include one at Northeast 145th Street, Northeast 185th Street, the Mountlake Transit Center (at 236th Street Southwest), and a station at the Lynnwood Transit Center (at 200th Street Southwest).

With these future extensions, riders are promised more frequent and reliable transportation and less pain from traffic congestion! It is estimated that commuters will be able to get from Lynnwood to Downtown Seattle in 28 minutes or to Sea-Tac Airport in 60 minutes.

SCHOOLS

Whether you’re starting out or starting over, Lynnwood has great opportunities for a college education. Edmonds Community College features 61 associate’s degree programs in disciplines like Pre-Nursing and Business/Accounting. With a newly announced Bachelor’s degree program too, Edmonds provides tools for success!

If you feel like there’s not enough time to go back to school, check out Central Washington University’s Lynnwood Campus too. CWU is dedicated to giving students valuable education through flexible class styles. The ability to complete your Bachelor’s degree on the Lynnwood campus ensures that you can balance your responsibilities and educational commitments.

COMMUNITY SPACES

From special events to family fun, Lynnwood offers amazing community spaces. Looking for a wedding or party venue? The Lynnwood Convention Center is a fantastic option! Convenient parking, a versatile landscape, and professional chefs are some of the services that promise you and your guests a memorable experience.

For something everyone will enjoy, visit the Lynnwood Recreation Center & Pool. “The Lynnwood Rec Center & Pool is one of the most popular places for family fun in Lynnwood,” shares Claudette M.

“There is often a line of people that wraps around the building for Rec & Open Swim sessions in this LEED certified facility featuring 3 pools, 2 hot tubs, 2 giant slides, beach access for toddlers and preschoolers, and a large water-dumping-bucket and play area (a la Great-Wolf-Lodge style, but at a fraction of the price) there’s something for everyone no matter their age.”

PARKS

If you’re out and about, stop by one of Lynnwood’s awesome parks for a picnic and play time! Wilcox Park “offers play structures, open field for volleyball, soccer, frisbee and a wooded area too,” according to Tonya T. “Wilcox City Park, also known by Lynnwoodians as Flag Park, offers a summer Farmers Market on Thursdays,” Stefanie M shares.

Another spot is Scriber Lake Park, which Tonya describes as “…a bridged walkway through natural ponds, streams and woods,” an ideal spot for wildlife lovers. Looking for something expansive that you can get lost in? Lynndale Park is Lynnwood’s largest park. Tonya’s tip? “The amphitheater at Lynndale park has live summer events!”

If you’re a history buff, Tonya recommends Heritage Park, which celebrates the city’s agricultural, transportation, and social heritage. Finally, Jen also recommends North Lynnwood Park for summer fun: “The North Lynnwood park has a dragon-themed splash pad, covered picnic areas, play equipment, and tons of lawn space. Perfect on those sunny summer days that will be coming soon. Right? Summer is coming, isn’t it?”

Lynnwood • Neighborhood Profiles • June 13, 2017

13 Gorgeous Instagram Photos of Lynnwood You Need to See

by Cori Whitaker

Whether you’re looking for a gorgeous spot to spend the day or searching for a scenic area to snap a few family photos, Lynnwood is brimming with beauty if you know where to look! Enjoy these Instagram photos taken throughout Lynnwood to see all that this dynamic city has to offer:

1 & 2. Scriber Lake Park

Both of these views of Scriber Lake Park in Lynnwood are stunning, and this 22-acre park is definitely worth checking out. It features the lake, a floating boardwalk, opportunities for observing wildlife, a 0.8-mile walking trail, and a great history. Bring your camera and start exploring! Learn more here!

3. Lynnwood Transit Center

What a spectacular sunset captured at the Lynnwood Transit Center! Did you know that the light rail is coming to Lynnwood? This is a huge deal for people in the area who commute—learn more about the Lynnwood light rail expansion here!

4 & 5. Lynnwood Golf Course

Golf enthusiasts in the Lynnwood area are in luck—did you know we had such a lush, gorgeous course like this right in our backyard? Learn more about the course here!

6 & 7. Great Commuting Options

Lynnwood is a popular choice for commuters—Highway 99, Interstate-5, and 405 all run through or border Lynnwood. Plus, the Interurban Trail, the Lynnwood Transit Center, and the link rail expansion ensure there’s plenty of commuting options to take advantage of. For tips on commuting in Lynnwood, click here!

8 & 9. Meadowdale Playfields

This incredible 27-acre complex is brimming with adventure! Not only can you find softball fields and a basketball court, but there’s also a play structure, picnic facilities, a forested area and a pond to explore, restrooms, and walking trails! Learn more here.

10 & 11. Lynndale Park

When you need to retreat into nature but don’t want to drive far, the 22-acre Lynndale Park is the perfect spot to head to! In addition to several sport courts and fields, there is play equipment, a skate park, a huge forested area with nature and walking trails, an off-leash dog area, and more! Click here for more information.

12 & 13. Sunset Over Lynnwood

We’re glad that a couple of Lynnwood photographers took a moment to capture these beautiful sunsets!

Neighborhood Profiles • Shoreline • June 12, 2017

Shoreline

by Cori Whitaker

Welcome to Shoreline!

Nestled along the Puget Sound, Shoreline is a city just north of Seattle. “With Interstate-5 cutting right through the middle of Shoreline, getting to and from the freeway and going south to Seattle or into Snohomish County and pointing north is easy,” shares Bernie. “There are several neighborhood with small hubs but for the present, Shoreline does not have a ‘downtown’ Shoreline like many cities its size. That may change with light rail coming to the city in the not too distant future.”

Described by residents as a growing, well-run city with scenic vistas and a long list of conveniences, Shoreline is a top choice for many in the region. Its excellent schools make it especially attractive to families with children in school, and its many parks, restaurants, shops, and cherished annual community events make it all the more appealing. Many people like being right next door to Seattle as well, whether you commute in for work or enjoy exploring the city.

For those who are interested in moving to Shoreline, you can expect to find a good variety of real estate. Mid-century homes, new construction, older properties, ramblers, and Lovell style homes are all in the mix.

Getting Out & About

“I love the parks in Shoreline—Hamlin Park, Paramount Park (a great place to take kids and there is a skateboard ramp there as well), Saltwater Park and Boeing Creek Park provide plenty of year-round activities.” – Sam A

“Shoreline has an amazing, award-winning public school district, many good private schools, and the well-regarded Shoreline Community College.” –Jill L

Commuting from Shoreline

“Commuters love Shoreline because it’s halfway between Everett and Seattle, so whether someone is going to Boeing or Amazon the commute is not overly painful. Plus there are so many Rapid Ride options, transit stations nearby and soon the Light Rail. Easy back roads to Ballard and Queen Anne and just a quick trip to Edmonds to hop on The Sounder.” –Cori Whitaker

“[People use] mostly cars but because there is a large transit center at Aurora Village, riding the bus is very convenient. The Interurban Trail provides a great way to walk or bike & is connected to the north to Snohomish County’s & to the south to Seattle’s Interurban Trails. With 2 light rail stations coming in the future, that will only increase the options.”Jill L.

Monthly Newsletter • June 12, 2017

You’d Like to Sell Your Home, but Where to Next, and How?

by Cori Whitaker

Homeowners across our region are enjoying very healthy equity levels due to an upswing in the real estate market over the last five years. In fact, the median price in King County is up 50% over the last five years and up 47% in Snohomish County. This growth in equity has given homeowners the exciting option to sell their home for a high price and move on to their next chapter, such as a move-up, down-size or second home. This price growth is great news and provides many opportunities, however we have also faced some challenges in how to make these transitions.

Our biggest challenge in the marketplace right now is inventory levels; sometimes requiring a buyer to compete in multiple offers for their next home. Currently King County sits at 0.7 months of inventory and 0.8 in Snohomish. Historically, buyers that are also sellers would commonly secure a new home contingent on the sale of their current home. This means the seller of the new home they are buying would give them a month or so to get their current house sold in order to buy theirs. Well in this market, that is only rarely an option. So, the million-dollar question is this: how does one who has gained so much equity, now itching to get that bigger house, different location, or perfect rambler for settling into retirement, make this transition without having to move twice? We need to get creative and have a strategy. Two options that I have recently found to be successful, are negotiating a rent-back for my sellers or using the Windermere Bridge Loan program.

First, negotiating a rent-back has become a great option for someone who needs to first sell their current home in order to buy. The way it works is we put their home on the market, price it competitively to create demand, and ask for a rent-back as one of the preferred terms. If this rent-back is successfully negotiated, then the seller closes on their home and collects their funds, but gets to stay in the house anywhere from 30-60 days. This enables the seller, who is now a buyer, to have their cash in-hand, time to find a new house, get it under contract and close the sale when their rent-back is ending. This eliminates the need to move twice. There is a bit of calculated risk in this plan, but I’ve seen it work multiple times, always with a plan B ready just in case. Rarely has plan B needed to be executed, and often times we’ve even been able to pay little to no rent during this time.

The second option is the Windermere Bridge Loan program. This is an amazing tool for homeowners that own their homes free and clear, or who have paid down their debt quite a bit. This is a low-cost alternative to pull the equity out of one’s house prior to selling it in order to make a non-contingent offer. The way it works is we take the market value of the house the homeowner current lives in, established by a comparative market analysis that I complete and is signed off by my broker. We then take 65% of that value and subtract any debt owed, and that is the maximum amount the homeowner can borrow for their next down payment. They can then make a non-contingent offer on a new home. What is really great about this, is that it doesn’t require an appraisal (like a HELOC does), and these can easily be turned around in 3-5 business days. This tool provides the opportunity to quickly and inexpensively pull your equity out, be competitive, and eliminates the double move.

The fees associated with this program are a 1% loan fee on the equity that is pulled, a title report, and interest that is incurred between the loan funding and being paid off once the subject home is sold. That interest is conveniently wrapped up in the closing costs when they close the sale of their home, eliminating the need to make monthly interest payments. In a strategy that is somewhat mind blowing, we can sometimes use these bridge loans and never have to actually fund them. For example, if we secure a property non-contingent with the bridge loan and immediately get the subject home on the market, we can often secure a sale with a simultaneous closing, and never have to fund the loan. This eliminates the loan fee, interest, and the need to carry two mortgages.

If you are excited about equity levels and today’s low interest rates and have thought about making that move you’ve been waiting for, but have been fearful of how to do it all – I can help. These two options, along with great attention to detail, hand-holding, and careful planning have helped many people make these exciting transitions. It is my goal to help keep my clients informed and empower strong decisions. Please contact me if you would like further information on how this might work for you or someone you know.

Lynnwood • Neighborhood Profiles • June 9, 2017

Lynnwood

by Cori Whitaker

Welcome to Lynnwood!

Treasured for its convenience, value, and many shopping opportunities, Lynnwood is nestled in a central area with great commuting options! Located north of Seattle next to Edmonds and Mountlake Terrace, commuters love that Interstate-5, Highway 405, and Highway 99 all pass through Lynnwood.

Not only is Lynnwood a haven of convenience, but it’s also home to some fabulous amenities. Schools include Edmonds Community College and a Central Washington University location, gorgeous parks are aplenty, and it’s hard to find better options for dining and shopping anywhere else in Snohomish County!

For those who are thinking about moving to Lynnwood, you can expect a large range of choice when it comes to real estate. Whether you’re looking for an older home from the 1950s or ‘60s on a larger lot or searching for new construction, Lynnwood real estate offers some excellent home options.

Getting Out & About

“[Lynnwood is] Retail Mecca—how do you choose just one area? Looking for a new car, a couch, organic groceries, jewlery or a specialty bottle of wine? Come to Lynnwood! Total Wine, Whole Foods… only spot in Sno Co to find these stores (and many others).” –Jen B

“One of the reasons my husband and I purchased in Lynnwood was due to the city’s focus on varied park & green spaces. The city offers several larger community parks like Wilcox Park (AKA Flag Park) and Lynndale Park, and many smaller neighborhood parks with play areas and or splash pads.” –Claudette M

“[Take advantage of] splash pad parks, ice skating, [and the] Lynnwood skate and bowl!” –Jen B

Commuting from Lynnwood

[Most people commute using] cars, bikes through the Interurban Trail, and park and rides.” – Jen B

Homes in Lynnwood

“Home buyers have a wide range of options to choose from including one-story homes built in the 1950s and ‘60s; split-level homes built in the 1970s and later years; and lots of new and newer construction 2-story homes located East of the freeway.” Claudette M

Click here to search for homes in Lynnwood!

Neighborhood Profiles • Shoreline • May 22, 2017

Your Guide to Schools in Shoreline

by Cori Whitaker

One of the top reasons why people choose to live in Shoreline, WA is because of Shoreline’s excellent educational options! “Shoreline has an amazing, award-winning public school district, many good private schools, and well-regarded Shoreline Community College,” shares Jill L. With public schools, private schools, and even a community college to choose from, Shoreline’s variety of schools offers its residence with some truly impressive and award-winning options.

Here are a few of the schools that locals recommend:

Shoreline Public Schools

The Shoreline Public School system features early learning opportunities, 9 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, 2 high schools, one K-8 school, and a Home Education Exchange program. Shorewood High School is especially of note—this school was recently completely renovated, and re-opened in September 2013.

You can view the attendance area map for Shoreline Public Schools right here.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN SHORELINE

St Luke School

St Luke School offers a wide range of programs, including a preschool program for 3 and 4-year-olds, all-day kindergarten, and school up through the 8th grade. It’s also important to note that this school year (2016-2017) is their first year as an International Baccalaureate (IB) candidate school! They also have an educational and engaging summer program to take advantage of.

Horizon School

“My kids went to Horizon School and absolutely loved it!” shares REALTOR® Cori Whitaker. “[Horizon School is a] dynamic school for pre-school/kindergarten ages that focuses on hands-on, self-directed play and creative expression.” Nestled in the Richmond Beach community, Horizon School is a private, non-profit school. The application process begins each winter, and they also offer summer programs.

First Lutheran School & Kindergarten

“First Lutheran School & Kindergarten at Richmond Beach provides pre-k through kindergarten. It’s a solid starting point if you’re looking for a place that is well-rounded and focused on child development along with principles of the Christian faith,” says Casey B. “Our kids attend and we are very impressed with the staff, their curriculum, and their approach to teaching.”

The Evergreen School

Offering programs for those in preschool all the way through 8th grade, The Evergreen School is all about learning in a vibrant, diverse environment. Their preschool program is a half-day program (with extended childcare available until 5:30pm), and their prekindergarten program is full-day. They also offer a huge variety of after school classes, including sessions that are focused on robotics, coding, baking, debate, sewing & crafting, and much more.

King’s School

This dynamic community offers programs from preschool all the way through high school graduation. The King’s School website state that their “standard curriculum is the highest quality college-prep track available,” and they also provide honors and classes in addition to a huge variety of sports, music, drama, and other programs.

Shoreline Community College

This incredible resource offers a dynamic range of programs, including high school programs (like Running Start, GED, and more), professional and technical programs (like nursing, dental hygiene, criminal justice, business technology, etc.), online programs, transfer degrees for those who plan to attend a college or university, continuing education, and so much more! Learn more about Shoreline Community College’s myriad of offerings here.

Neighborhood Profiles • Shoreline • May 15, 2017

5 Reasons Why Commuters Love Living in Shoreline

by Cori Whitaker

REALTOR® Cori Whitaker sums it up perfectly—Shoreline offers it all! Just north of Seattle, Shoreline is a top choice for those who commute due to its close proximity to the city (and like Cori mentions, other large cities like Everett) and myriad of transit options.

If you’re thinking about moving to Shoreline or switching up your commuting routine, check out these 5 reasons why commuters love living in Shoreline for some transit tips!

1. Future Light Rail Station

Did you know the Light Rail is coming to Shoreline?! That’s right—in 2023, Shoreline is getting light rail… and it’s getting not one but TWO stations! The city has plans for a station at I-5 and 145th St, and I-5 and 185th Street. You can take a look at the map of the extension right here. Not only will this be great for commuters, but this will have a huge effect on property values within its zoning.

2. Central Location

Like Cori mentioned earlier, Shoreline is nestled in a central location that’s in between Seattle and Everett. Depending where you live in Shoreline, it’s about a 24-minute drive into Downtown Seattle while Everett is about a 20-minute drive.

3. Aurora Village Transit Center

People in Shoreline mostly use cars to get around, but because there is a large transit center at Aurora Village, riding the bus is very convenient. The Transit Center has several buses that head all over the region, including Downtown Seattle, First Hill, UW Campus, Northgate, Bellevue/Renton, and much more. There’s also a RapidRide to Downtown Seattle.

4. The Interurban Trail

The Interurban Trail provides a great way to walk or bike and is connected to the north to Snohomish County’s and to the south to Seattle’s Interurban Trails. The north portion of this trail leads from Seattle all the way up to Everett and makes its way right through Shoreline.

The Burke-Gilman Trail doesn’t run through shoreline, but there is a project underway that connects Shoreline’s portion of the Interurban Trail to Lake Forest Park and the Burke-Gilman! The primary source of transportation [in Shoreline] is by far the four wheel variety, but bicycles along the many two lane arterial roads is not uncommon. The Burke-Gilman Trail, which will take you down to the UW, points further west and is a popular destination for those both on bike and foot.

5. Sounder Train in Nearby Edmonds

Located at 211 Railroad Ave, Edmonds, WA 98020 just north of Shoreline, the Sounder Train has a stop in Edmonds that you can take advantage of. The Sounder runs from Lakewood and Seattle, and Seattle and Everett, making it an excellent option for going longer distances in a relaxing, scenic manner. Bypass car traffic with this handy option!

Neighborhood Profiles • Shoreline • May 12, 2017

Don’t Miss Out on These 12 Special Annual Events in Shoreline

by Cori Whitaker

One of the things that people love most about Shoreline is that it’s packed with fun events the whole family can enjoy! From festivals to food, there’s something for everyone.

Since my family lives in Shoreline, I wanted to let you know about the best events in Shoreline for 2017. Here are my top 12 picks! (We’ve shared the dates and times for 2017, but bookmark this post for next year so you can mark your calendars that a special event is coming up!)

APRIL 2017

Annual Egg Hunt on the Beach

Date & Time: April 15, 1:00p
Located at 2021 NW 190th St. Shoreline, WA 98177

This year’s Annual Egg Hunt on the Beach, sponsored by the Shoreline Fire Department, was a huge success. If you missed it, don’t fret; bring the kids down next year to catch some eggs and make some memories.

MAY 2017

Strawberry Festival

Date & Time: May 13, 12:00p-5:00p
Located at 2201 NW 197th St. Shoreline, WA 98177

Kick off strawberry season at Shoreline’s Strawberry Festival. Live music, tours, a children’s parade, and delicious strawberry shortcake make this one event you will not want to miss. Look for my booth and say “Hi!” I’ll have lots of real estate information to share, or am glad to just take time and chat if you stop by! Hope to see you there!

JULY-AUGUST 2017

Summer Concerts in the Park

Date & Time: July 5-August 23, 6:30p (unless otherwise noted)
Located at Several Community Parks Throughout Shoreline and Lake Forest Park

If you’re looking for a fun, free event, check out the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Art Council’s Summer Concerts in the Park series. 2017’s lineup includes swing, Latin jazz, and more, so grab a blanket and enjoy a musical summer evening.

AUGUST 2017

4-Corners Brewfest 2017

Date & Time: August 12, 3:00p-7:00p
Located at 1430 NW 188th St, Shoreline

Beer lovers unite! The 4-Corners Brewfest is back with more tasty food, live music, and the best brew samples around, so get ready for this local favorite.

Sandcastle Contest

Date & Time: August 20, 11:30a-2:30p
Located at 2021 NW 190th St. Shoreline, WA 98177

Part of “Celebrate Shoreline,” the Saltwater Park Sandcastle Contest gives contestants three hours to construct the best sandcastle. If you think you have what it takes, grab your shovel and start prepping for this unique event.

The North City Jazz Walk

“The North City Jazz walk is a fun summer event that takes place annually in August,” shares Sam A. “A portion of 15th Ave NE is shut down and many businesses offer food and host various jazz bands.”

AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2017

Shoreline Food Trucks

Date & Time: TBD; 5:00p-8:00p Wednesdays
Located at 2021 NW 190th St. Shoreline, WA 98177

Experience awesome local food trucks every Wednesday night at Saltwater Park. 2017 vendors are still TBA, so keep your eyes peeled for the taste adventures that await this year.

OCTOBER 2017

Hamlin Halloween Haunt

Date & Time: October 20, 6:00p-8:30p
Located at Hamlin Park 16006 15th Ave NE Shoreline, WA

If you’re looking for Halloween fun this year, need to check out the Hamlin Halloween Haunt. Spooky songs, s’mores, and more make this the perfect event for all ghouls and goblins.

Halloween Carnival

Date & Time: October 28, 3:00p-7:00p
Located at 19545 12th Ave. NW Shoreline, WA 98177

For old-fashioned carnival lovers, the Richmond Beach Community Association’s Halloween Carnival is exceptional. Classic games, a haunted house, inflatables, and food make this a timeless community tradition.

NOVEMBER 2017

Turkey Day Fun Run

Date & Time: November 23, 8:30a
Located at 2021 NW 190th St. Shoreline, WA 98177

Get pumped for that Thanksgiving feast during the Richmond Beach Community Association’s Turkey Day Fun Run. Enjoy a brisk trek before settling in to celebrate the holiday.

DECEMBER 2017

2017 Argosy Christmas Ship Visit

Date & Time: TBD
Located at 2021 NW 190th St. Shoreline, WA 98177

For a one-of-a-kind Christmas event, check out the Argosy Christmas Ship Visit. Relax around the campfire as a ship carrying choirs passes along the coastline, filling the air with carols that will fill you with holiday joy.

Christmas Morning Fire Truck Visit from Santa

Date & Time: December 25, Morning
Located at Various Neighborhoods Throughout Richmond Beach

Every Christmas morning, the Shoreline Fire Department gives the big man himself a ride atop one of their fire trucks as he visits the families of Richmond Beach. Keep a lookout this year; he may come down your street!