Windermere is very proud to be the Official Real Estate Company of the Seattle Seahawks for the second year running! This Sunday we’ll be doing our part to #tacklehomelessness with the help of the Hawks. For every home game defensive tackle, Windermere donates $100 to YouthCare, an organization that provides critical services to homeless youth. So far this season we’ve already raised $10,700!
As a part of Windermere’s #TackleHomelessness campaign with the Seahawks, we are also collecting new hats, scarves, gloves and warm socks for YouthCare. Donations can be dropped off at my office through November. Each night in the greater Seattle area, nearly 1,000 young people are homeless, and this time of year can be especially harsh. Together we can make a difference.
Now that fall has set in and the rain has come, it is time to move your home improvement projects inside. If interior painting is on your list, check out the latest color trends for 2018. Also note, if you are in need of a contractor of any kind, please contact me. I have a vetted list of preferred contractors that can help you get the job done.
As a member of Windermere Real Estate, the leading real estate company in the Western U.S., I have access to a vast array of resources and services that are designed to help you make well-informed decisions regarding your real estate needs. This includes access to the most relevant housing and economic data from Windermere’s Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner.
Matthew has been a real estate economist for more than 25 years in both the U.S. and U.K. He specializes in residential market analysis, commercial/industrial market analysis, financial analysis, and land use and regional economics. His study and interpretation of this economic data and its impact on the real estate market, gives us unique insights into short-term and long-term housing trends that are important to consider when buying or selling a home.
Every quarter Matthew compiles a detailed report that analyzes the Western Washington real estate market. Read the full Third Quarter Gardner Report here. If this is something you’d like to personally receive every quarter, please contact me and I will add you to my distribution list. It is my goal to help keep my clients informed, empower strong decisions and create exceptional results.
What’s so great about living in South Everett? There are several reasons why people choose to call South Everett “home,” and we asked locals what they love about the area so much. Here’s what they shared:
1. Quick access to Boeing and Paine Field.
As local Heather P points out, South Everett’s easy access to Boeing is definitely a perk of living in the area! This location will only become more desirable when Alaska Airlines starts running commercial flights from Paine Field in fall of 2018. For those in the area who have to head to SeaTac often, this will be a *huge* timesaver.
2. Several great transit options.
In addition to upcoming commercial flights, South Everett already has several excellent transportation options whether or not you have a car. With access to several freeways (including Interstate-5), local and regional bus routes, the Sounder Train (find stations in nearby Mukilteo and of course in Everett), and the light rail expansion, getting around the area just keeps getting easier. Having options like the train and light trail (in the future!) make it so you don’t even have to deal with car traffic, a definite bonus as our highways become more and more congested. (Be sure to take advantage of these South Everett commuting tips!)
3. Nice neighborhoods with affordability.
According to local Brian H, South Everett is a top choice for many people due to its “nice neighborhoods and affordability.” As Zillow reports, the median home price in Everett is $337,700 (August 2017). With prices steadily increasing, it’s significantly more affordable than nearby cities like Seattle (with a median home price of $690,200 for August 2017).
4. Unique outdoor opportunities.
Many people don’t know all that South Everett has to offer, and this includes some unique outdoor activities! Local Jen B especially loves McCollum Pioneer Park: “McCollum Park is a fabulous Park and Ride but there are other unique amenities including an outdoor seasonal pool, BMX park, and walking trails linking to Mill Creek Town Center. For even more tips on what to do outdoors, don’t miss our Outdoor Lover’s Guide to South Everett!
5. There’s tons of great shopping!
…And we really mean *tons*. Costco and T.J. Maxx are Heather P’s favorite places to stop by, but no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll probably be able to find it in South Everett. The Everett Mall is packed with shopping, dining, services, and entertaining, and here you’ll find Regal Cinemas, LA Fitness, Bed Bath & Beyond, PetSmart, Best Buy, Sears, and so much more. Nearby you’ll also find Walmart, Target, WinCo, not to mention several sit-down restaurants and fast food options!
Many people choose to live in South Everett for its central location, affordability, and great commuting options. According to local Heather P, it’s “Close enough to the city and the I-405 interchange yet far enough to feel like you’ve somewhat escaped!” She also shares that it’s a “Quick commute up north if you’re headed to Lake Stevens or Bellingham.”
Whether you work at Boeing or need to commute into Seattle for work, we have several commuting tips to share. From taking the train or bus to developments you can expect in the future, here are a few things you need to know:
Easy access to highways, including Interstate-5 and Highway 99.
No matter where you live in South Everett, you’re never more than a few minutes away from highways if you’re getting around by car. Both Interstate-5 and Highway 99 conveniently run right through the area, and 526 and 525 cut through the area as well.
The Sounder Train has stops in Everett Station and in Mukilteo.
The Sounder Train runs from Everett all the way south to Lakewood (just past Tacoma), presenting another excellent commuting option that helps you avoid roads altogether (a definite perk during rush hour)! While the Sounder typically only runs in the mornings and afternoons on weekdays, it also runs when there are big weekend events going on, like Mariners or Seahawks games. Avoid the hassle of parking and traffic if you’re heading to a game! You can plan your trip on the Sounder here.
South Everett Freeway Station Park & Ride
Located at I-5 & 112th Street S.E., Everett, this handy park and ride includes 399 parking spaces in addition to bike racks and lockers. Park and catch the 510, 512, or 532 buses, and various Everett Transit buses as well. Learn more about the freeway station here, and check out 510 and 512 bus routes into Seattle here.
Everett Transit
Everett has its own transit system for navigating the city, and there are several stops for your convenience! From routes and schedules to tips on planning your journey, EverettTransit.org has everything you’ll need to know to take advantage of this great community amenity.
Biking in Everett
Featuring a maze of convenient trails in addition to the Interurban Trail, biking is a popular way to exercise or just get around Everett. There is an extensive network of bike trails, and the popular Interurban Trail runs north and south. You can see a map of the Snohomish County portion of the trail here. For a map of all of the bike trails and the Interurban Trail in Everett, click here!
Light Rail Expansion
It’s still awhile out, but the light rail is coming to South Everett with a projected completion in 2036. Currently, the light rail runs from Angle Lake (just past SeaTac) to University of Washington. There are stops planned at Southwest Everett Industrial Center, SR 526/Evergreen and Everett Station in the future! (There is also a provisional station, at SR 99/Airport Road, but this stop can only happen if additional funding is acquired.) Click here to see an interactive map of the plan!
Commercial Flights out of Paine Field
In the fall of 2018, Alaska Airlines will begin offering commercial flights out of Paine Field! Alaska Airlines will begin announcing flight routes in early 2018, so stay tuned. You can learn all about this new service here.
Make your day at Silver Lake memorable with our go-to guide. From parks, to picnics, to dining, we have your scoop on not-to-miss spots.
Here’s our guide to making the most of a day at Silver Lake in South Everett:
PARKS
For a getaway by the lake, check out Hauge Homestead Park. A picnic pavilion, waterfront access for fishing, and a soon-to-be new playground make it a great place to unwind. Another urban oasis is the popular Thornton A. Sullivan Park. “Th[is] park at Silver Lake is the perfect home base for an afternoon of fun at the lake,” says Jen B. “Plenty of shade, playground equipment, and covered pavilions. This non-motorized lake is perfect for kayaking and paddle boarding!”
Janet B agrees, saying “I love Silver Lake Park. Excellent facilities for big or small events at Fort Patterson and great big huge place for kids to play. Paddle boarding kayak and tubing!” A final spot that’s worth checking out is Green Lantern Park. From spots to catch bass to a tot lot for the youngsters, this park has something for everyone.
PICNIC GRUB
Across the street from Green Lantern Park is a shopping center with local eateries perfect for grabbing picnic food. For a seafood lunch, Sushi Ring serves up nigiri, hand rolls, and other sushi that will satisfy your craving. If you have a sweet tooth, the L’Artisan French Bakery has tarts, eclairs, and cakes that transport you to Paris. Fans of Chinese cuisine need to check out the homemade selections at China Dumpling & Noodle House. With a line that’s often wrapped around the building, it’s a local favorite. Another top spot is Viet Thai Cuisine Noodle Bar. Quality pho and curry dishes make it a go-to for adding some kick to your picnic. Finally, on chillier days, stop by the Safeway Starbucks and pick up a coffee before walking along the lake. You’ll love it!
LAKESIDE DINING
When night falls, enjoy it at Emory’s on Silver Lake. “Emory’s…is my favorite place for great happy hour with a beautiful, sunny patio in South Everett,” says Jen. “They also have live music in the bar, so check their website for details. They also have a banquet room in case you need to host an event! The main restaurant is lined with windows to take advantage of the western facing lake views.” It’s the perfect end to a day at Silver Lake!
The great outdoors are calling! Gorgeous parks, opportunities for golfing, and farms are all in the mix—adventures await!
Here’s a look at the outdoor lover’s guide to South Everett:
GOLF
For local golfers looking to practice their skills, no place is better than Jen B and Brian H’s pick. “Columbia Super Range is the best spot to work on your golf game,” says Jen. “Located just east of I-5 on 128th, it’s easy to stop and hit a bucket of balls on your way home! Open til 10pm in the summer!” Or, if you just want a relaxing space to play a couple rounds, the Walter E. Hall Golf Course offers a tranquil forest setting and stunning views of the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. No matter which course you pick, you will be treated to a top-notch experience that will make you want to return again and again.
PARKS
There’s certainly no shortage of great local parks to enjoy while out and about in the South Everett area. For example, Jen shares that “McCollum [Pioneer] Park is a fabulous Park and Ride but there are other unique amenities including an outdoor seasonal pool, BMX park, and walking trails linking to Mill Creek Town Center.” Sports fans can also head over to Kasch Park and catch a game of softball, Little League, soccer, or lacrosse.
Searching for something extra adventurous? Jen also recommends High Trek Adventures at the Paine Field Community Park. Rope obstacle courses and ziplining offers something new and exciting to try out, and with over 60 challenges to try, you can keep coming back to try something new! (It’s also a great place for corporate events or parties!)
Finally, those with four-legged friends can bring them down to Loganberry Lane Park to enjoy the wooded trails off-leash. There really is something for everyone at these parks!
FARMS
According to Jen B, “In the fall, South Everett residents head down the hill to the Snohomish River Valley where pumpkin patches, hay mazes, and harvest fun can be had!” One farm in particular to take advantage of all of this fun at is the nearby Farm at Swan’s Trail. A 50-acre pumpkin patch, the Washington State Corn Maze, wagon rides, and much more promise a great time for the whole family. For adults and older kids, the Thomas Family Farm features unique nighttime activities like zombie paintball, a haunted house, and a flashlight corn maze. It’s only the best way to spend this spooky time of year in the South Everett area.
Described by local Brian H as “growing, affordable, and convenient,” South Everett is in a wonderfully central location that offers great commuting options. But aside from being close to the many jobs and attractions in Everett, Seattle, and the surrounding areas, South Everett offers its own set of things to do and see! From excellent shopping, bountiful dining options, and lovely outdoor opportunities, South Everett offers its residents with a long list of top-notch city amenities to explore.
Take advantage of everything that South Everett has to offer all while benefiting from its affordability, wonderful sense of community, and of course, it’s aviation facilities and attractions. South Everett is home to Boeing, Paine Field, the Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum, the Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour, and more flight-inspired attractions.
Getting Out & About
“I love the silver lake park. Excellent facilities for big or small events at fort Patterson and great big huge place for kids to play. Paddle boarding kayak and tubing!” –Janet B
“Don’t forget Emory’s, a great place for dinner, and you can cozy up to the large outdoor fireplace too.” –Greg B
Commuting from South Everett
“Close enough to the city and the I-405 interchange yet far enough to feel like you’ve somewhat escaped! Quick commute up north if you’re headed to Lake Stevens or Bellingham.” –Heather P
Homes in South Everett
“A mix for sure. There are many older established nice neighborhoods, all different styles of homes, and a mix of new construction. Townhomes and condos as well.” –Heather P
“Lots of nice neighborhoods, accessible to everything, affordability.” –Brian H
Knowing the value of your home is helpful in many ways. It can help determine one’s net worth, help decide if a home sale or purchase is a financially feasible move, determine the ability to get a loan – and it’s just nice to know where your largest investment stands. Consumers have the option to access several websites such as Zillow® to search the AVM or Zestimate® on their property.
A Zestimate is an AVM (Automated Valuation Model). The product of an automated valuation technology comes from analysis of public record data and computer decision logic combined to provide a calculated estimate of a probable selling price of a residential property. An AVM generally uses a combination of two types of evaluation, a hedonic model and a repeat sales index. The results of each are weighted, analyzed and then reported as a final estimate of value based on a requested date.
Often when I am talking with potential sellers, their Zestimate (or other AVMs) come up in the overall conversation, and I understand why. This is information that is relatively easy to access and gives the seller a starting point on the value of their home. Where an AVM can become problematic is when a consumer thinks it’s accurate. Even worse, when a consumer makes a major financial decision solely based on this information. According to Zillow, less than half of all Zestimates in the Seattle metro area are even within 5.4% of the actual value, and they only give themselves a 2-star (fair) rating on their accuracy. In fact, they publish an accuracy report that you can access here.
In August, the average home price in the Seattle Metro area was $824,000. With less than half of all Zestimates within 5% of the actual value, that is a beginning margin of error of $41,200! Further, they claim that 72.3% of their Zestimates are within 10% of the actual value, which is a marked difference – up to $82,400. AVMs are incomplete because the basis of their formula is tax records, which in my experience are often inaccurate. Also, and most importantly, an AVM does not take into consideration the condition of the home, the neighborhood and other environmental impacts such as school district, road noise and unsightly neighboring homes, to name a few.
An accurate accounting of the value of a home in today’s market requires actually physically touring the home and the surrounding homes that compare, as well as considering current market conditions such as supply and demand and seasonality. An algorithm cannot accomplish this, but a real estate broker can.
So why does the Zestimate exist? Zillow is a publicly traded company (ZG) and their website is the vehicle to create profit. The Zestimate drives consumers to the website who are often dipping their toe in the pool to see what their home might be worth, or searching available homes for sale. When a consumer is searching on the website they are surrounded by real estate broker and mortgage broker ads on every page. These real estate brokers and mortgage brokers are paying for that advertising space, which is how Zillow makes its money and why there is a Zestimate. The Zestimate is not a public service, it is a widget to bring eyes to their advertising space which in turn, sells more ads.
Another important item to note is that Zillow does NOT have all available real estate inventory in the Greater Seattle area on their website. In May, they cut off access to manually input listings, leaving some real estate firms unable to get their listings on the site any longer. Some firms just plainly chose not to syndicate to them. It is estimated that Zillow has between 70%-80% of the total available inventory on their site. In an inventory-tight market like the one we are in now, it is important for consumers to understand that if Zillow is the only source they are searching with, they may be missing out. Brokerage firm websites, such as Windermere.com have a direct IDX feed from the Northwest Multiple Listing Service which refreshes every 15 minutes, insuring the accuracy and completeness of all listing data.
The best use of Zillow is to think of the site as one of the many tools in your real estate evaluation and search toolbox. Zillow provides a great starting point and contains a ton of information to whet your palate when embarking on a real estate endeavor. Nothing beats the evaluation and discernment of a knowledgeable and experienced real estate broker to help you determine accuracy, which will lead to the empowerment of clarity.
If you are curious about the value of your home in today’s market, please contact me. I can provide an annual real estate review of all of your real estate holdings, and can even dive deep into a complete comparative market analysis if you would find that helpful. It is my goal to help keep my clients informed and empower strong decisions.
Zillow® and Zestimate® are trademarks of Zillow, Inc.
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Equifax Data Breach
If you have a credit report, there’s a good chance that you’re one of the 143 million American consumers whose sensitive personal information was exposed in the data breach at Equifax, one of the nation’s three major credit agencies.
Here are the facts, according to Equifax. The breach lasted from mid-May through July. The hackers accessed names, social security numbers, birth dates, addresses and in some cases, driver’s licenses numbers and even credit card numbers.
There are steps you can take to help protect your information from being misused. Visit Equifax’s website, www.equifaxsecurity2017.com to find out if your information was exposed and set up protections. Click here to access the entire press release from the Federal Trade Commission that includes step by step instructions to help you navigate the website.
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Nothing feels more like fall than pumpkin picking, hay rides and corn mazes. Get your latte in hand and head out to any one of these great, local farms to have some harvest fun and find that perfect jack-o-lantern to light up your porch.
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Ray & Lynn Trzynka
Milari Olexa
Alyssa Irwin
Mike & Chris Russell
The Everetts
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To these buyers that closed recently:
Gilbert & Patricia Holzmeyer
Jacob & Shannon Foran
Ann O’Connor
Mike & Chris Russell
Chris & Sarah Larson
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Active Listings:
1820 NW 195th St, Shoreline 98177
2 Bedrooms/1.75 Baths, 1592 Sq Ft.
Listed at $589,950
16736 76th Ave W, Edmonds 98026
4 Bedrooms/3.25 Baths, 3808 Sq Ft.
Listed at $798,950
8809 Olympic View Dr, Edmonds 98026
4 Bedrooms/2.75 Baths, 3956 Sq Ft.
Listed at $1,289,950
Listings currently under contract:
Pending
7010 177th St SW, Edmonds 98026
4 Bedrooms/3 Baths, 2684 Sq Ft.
Listed at $635,000
Pending
23834 113th Place W, Woodway 98020
5 Bedrooms/2.5 Baths, 3000 Sq Ft.
Listed at $869,950
Pending
9222 183rd Place SW, Edmonds 98020
4 Bedrooms/2.5 Baths, 3084 Sq Ft.
Listed at $659,850
Pending
410 Dayton St, Edmonds 98020
Bed & Breakfast
Commercial listing & business opportunity
Listed at $750,000
Thank you for trusting me to help your friends and family!
No one knows downtown Woodinville better than our very own residents. From the best places to hang out to premier pet-friendly services, we have your inside scoop!
Here is a look at 5 spots (plus one annual event!) to explore in downtown Woodinville, as recommended by locals:
Located at 13625 NE 175th St. Woodinville, WA 98072
A popular local spot, Molbak’s Garden + Home has everything you could need to fix up your yard or give your home the love it deserves. Homeware, kitchen gadgets, outdoor dining sets, gardening tools, and much, much more are offered here, plus design services ideal for filling your landscape with beautiful flower arrangements and container gardens.
Molbak’s isn’t just for shopping though, as Kim H explains. “Molbak’s Garden and Home is a great place to gather with friends, grab a cup of coffee, stroll around the nursery or enjoy a bite to eat at Russell’s Garden Café & Wine Bar located within the store.” With special events and donations to the community, Molbak’s is a staple that residents cannot get enough of!
Located at 13701 NE 171st St. Woodinville, WA 98072
If you want to learn more about the sustainable food movement right here in Woodinville, check out 21 Acres. “I always enjoy visiting 21 Acres,” says Kim H. “The Center focuses on local food, farming & sustainable living. The Center brings the community together with local farmers and vendors. You can take an education class on sustainable living, enjoy a variety of cooking classes, or pop into one of their many community events. The marketplace is open throughout the week with fresh and delicious local produce and products.” Discover how you can help yourself, your community, and the world at large at this innovative center!
Located at 13317 NE 175th St. Woodinville, WA 98072
If your pup is looking a little scruffy, take him down to the Pet Wash. “The Pet Wash, located on the main drag in Woodinville, is a great place to have your pooch groomed,” shares Becky L. “They also have self wash stations if you want to wash Fido yourself. Great service, reasonable prices and a wonderful staff. It’s nice to have trusted owners who really love and care for your pet.”
With state-of-the-art bathing systems and virtually every type of shampoo, conditioner, and grooming tool imaginable supplied onsite, they have exactly what you need to make your furry friend look and feel like royalty.
Located at 13132 NE 177th Pl. Woodinville, WA 98072
If you’re still looking for that “fur”ever friend, check out Homeward Pet Adoption Center. “We got our dog at Homeward Pet in Woodinville,” shares Lynette Hensley. “Of all the shelters we visited, we appreciated the experience here most of all. Not because this is where we found our dog, but because of the way they worked with us, talking through expectations, hopes, compatibility. We spent a long time with a few dogs, and with our chosen pup too.”
Located at 12728 NE 178th St. Woodinville, WA 98072
If you’ve got a future soccer star on your hands, sign him or her up for the Scott’s Soccer Tots program. “Scott’s Soccer Tots [at the] Woodinville Indoor Sports Facility [is] a great indoor soccer structure for year round play for little guys, youth, and great soccer summer camps,” shares Becky L. “Our kids loved the lessons, and you can have birthday parties there too!” For anyone wondering about the name, Larsen clears that question up: “Of course there really is a ‘Scott!’”
Located at various locations throughout downtown Woodinville
If you’re in downtown Woodinville on August 19, 2017, you will definitely want to check out the Celebrate Woodinville Festival: “Our family loves to attend the annual Basset Hound Bash/Woodinville All Fools’ Day Parade every August,” shares Kim H. “We kick off the morning with the pancake breakfast hosted at the local fire department, grab a seat on the parade route to watch the floats and dozens of basset hounds go by. It’s a fun-filled day at the farmer’s market with live music, art/craft vendors, food, wine and beer.” From 8:00am to 5:00pm, this yearly event is sure to be a great time for all ages!
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Windermere is very proud to be the Official Real Estate Company of the Seattle Seahawks for the second year running! This Sunday we’ll be doing our part to #tacklehomelessness with the help of the Hawks. For every home game defensive tackle, Windermere donates $100 to YouthCare, an organization that provides critical services to homeless youth. So far this season we’ve already raised $10,700!
whose sensitive personal information was exposed in the data breach at Equifax, one of the nation’s three major credit agencies.
1820 NW 195th St, Shoreline 98177
16736 76th Ave W, Edmonds 98026
8809 Olympic View Dr, Edmonds 98026
Pending
Pending
Pending 
Pending 
