Buying TipsReturn on InvestmentSeller TipsTacoma AttractionsTacoma Real Estate September 14, 2021

South End Cutie Ready To Mingle!

Looking for an affordable home that’s cute, well kept and offers possibilities to make your own? Here she is with new plumbing, water heater, sewer line, front door, light fixtures and fresh coat of neutral paint throughout. Good bones are hard to come by and any immediate repairs were taken care of my a loving owner who recently moved into a duplex purchased her daughter.

Don’t miss out on three spacious bedrooms, ductless A/C unit, newer appliances and large covered deck with fully fenced backyard plus garden space. Imagine yourself sipping a hot morning beverage this fall in the privacy of your own oasis!

One car garage, carport and an abundance of street parking. Prime location for grocery stores, schools and access to highway for those of you who commute up north. A short drive to Wapato Park for evening strolls with your pup. This park is centered around a lake and features an off-lease dog park, walking trails and play area for kiddos.

Calling all investors, this is an ideal location and price to yield a high return with minimal updates. Over the past year the median active price has increased over $50,000 and average sold price has bumped up $30,000. Pending homes have soared over 30% in the last year and they are continuing to rise since August with a sweet 60% jump in a month where inventory was at an all time high. With the majority of repairs completed under the hood, the superficial upgrades will make this home shine.

Want to learn more? Don’t hesitate to reach  out to discuss!

 

Buying TipsGig Harbor Real EstateHome ImprovementsListing TipsPort Orchard Real EstateReturn on InvestmentSeller TipsTacoma Real Estate July 27, 2021

Making the Most of Your Outdoor Space

It’s summertime in the beautiful Pacific Northwest and these longs days are the perfect time to make the most of your outdoor space.  For many, an outdoor space is an idyllic setting to live out summer dreams. Sip on a favorite drink or maybe grill up something you’ve been waiting to try since the dark, rainy days of winter. Or quite possibly take a stab at your very own vegetable garden!  Without walls and structure to hold your back, your outdoor space can be a perfect canvas to create a serene space to ground you back to nature and enjoy a gathering of friends and family.  When it comes to your outdoor space, the perfect comes with the imperfect and enjoying and immersing yourself the pure beauty of our incredible surroundings.  

Start Small  

The appeal of a lush vegetable and herb garden is a rewarding way to change up your outdoor space.  For many, starting a garden can seem daunting or overwhelming. However, with the many options out there and the plethora of information to be found on planting and maintaining your growing garden…you have all the tools you need right under your little green thumb!  


Going Vertical
 

 If you have limited space, I love the idea of a vertical garden.  Things have come a long way in recent years. Whether you’re a DIYer or you want to find something ready to use with a specific aesthetic, there are options for every type of gardener.  Something I have found to be particularly helpful is, knowing when to plant my seeds and starts or even what plants pair the best if you’re using one planter.  With our temperate climate, it makes July and August great times to have fall veggies ready for soups and stews as the weather changes giving you a summer gift that keeps on giving! If sustainability is a driving factor in your quest for a bountiful harvest, don’t forget to add a rain barrel and compost bin.  You can even use those leftover coffee grounds as fertilizer with the added bonus of keeping pests away from your beloved growing greenery!  

 Maximize Your Living Space

When decorating the inside of a home, it’s a given that you pay special attention to the details and function of the furniture and the space itself.  Outdoor living is no exception.  Picking functional and calming elements will go a long way in giving you your own little outdoor oasis.  Adding comfortable furniture and ambiance through lighting will probably make it your favorite room of the house!

Best Seat in the House

Summer may take a bit longer to arrive for us in the PNW, but we get the added benefit of enjoying some great days outdoors well into September.  Selecting outdoor furniture is easier than ever with big box stores making it a one-stop-shop for the full outdoor living experience.  You can also find great deals from online retailers with the added benefit of free shipping and plenty of reviews to help you select the right pieces from a real-life setting.  When selecting furniture be mindful of how you’ll need to store it in the winter months.  Here are some of the questions I ask so it’s an easy set up and put away when the time comes.  

    1. Does it come with covers?
    2. Are the cushions cover machine washable?
    3. Can you remove the umbrella fabric to clean? 

  

Lighting the Figurative Fire of Summer  

Nothing like grilling outdoors to make it feel like summer! The smell of burgers or corn on cobb just brings out all the feels and senses.  With the abundance of options from traditional propane and charcoal grills to the low and slow smoker approach, we are seeing those backyard BBQ’s bring a lot to the table.  Another fun and functional type of outdoor cooking we are seeing is the utilization of outdoor pizza ovens!  You no longer have to have your own huge brick pizza oven with the introduction of smaller options, meant to compliment the grill space you already have.  You could even throw a “Make Your Own Pizza” party with the mess being contained to the outdoors.  Who doesn’t love pizza?! 

S’more please!  

No summer BBQ would be complete without a trip over to the firepit for some S’mores! Just like a vertical garden, the options for every style are endless.  Using stackable pavers or bricks are an easy DIY option or you can find metal, wood burning pits designed for easy use and cleanup.  If wood burning doesn’t fit your style, propane pits are a great option too! Just be careful not to drip any of those delicious S’mores on glass centerpiece.  

 Lighting is Everything

No outdoor oasis is complete without proper lighting.  Lighting is also a great and inexpensive way to draw attention to a focal point in your living space or encourage conversation well after the sun has set.  String lights are something you can find pretty much anywhere an are easily replaceable.  String in a pattern for focuses lighting or light the perimeter to keep a low light to your space. Many string lights and perimeter lights are now solar, which makes it easy to add to any space where you don’t have an outlet accessible. Add a little music and it doesn’t get much better than that! 

With longer days and a little imagination, you can truly make the outdoor space you have come to life and become another great living space for the whole family. A comfy seat, some good food and company are sure to fill your summer with the best the Pacific Northwest has to offer.    

 

University Place Real Estate July 16, 2021

7 Favorite Features of this Meticulously Maintained & Updated University Place Home 

Featuring a generous 2,327-square-foot layout that’s brimming with smart and stylish updates, this University Place home is ready for a brand new chapter! In addition to 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, you’ll find a remodeled kitchen alongside light-filled living spaces designed with entertaining in mind. The backyard oasis is just as impressive—this outdoor escape has been manicured to perfection, so you can enjoy vacation-inspired relaxation without even having to leave the comfort of home! Located at 6207 83rd Avenue W University Place, WA 98467 and merely minutes to shopping, dining, iconic waterfront parks and more, this residence is listed for $595,000. (Inspection report available.) 

Take a moment to explore a few of this home’s top features: 

1. Updates galore! 

This home shines like new thanks to a long list of thoughtful upgrades. Discover a new roof, skylights, electrical, water heater, and a bathroom remodel in 2018. Beautiful hardwood floors have also been refinished, and just wait until you see the remodeled kitchen… more on that in a moment!

2. Gorgeous formal living spaces. 

Elegance awaits at every turn, and as soon as you step in through the front door, it’s immediately evident that this home is ready for hosting! In the formal living room, soaring ceilings make for a lasting first impression, and details like plush carpets, large shimmering windows, and eye-catching built-ins are all in the mix.

From here the layout unfolds into the formal dining room; here you can have guests over for memorable dinner parties and holiday feasts, and you’ll also find opportunity to infuse this gathering space with your own unique style. Add a fresh coat of paint or a wallpapered accent wall to make a statement! 

3. Beautiful remodeled kitchen. 

In the kitchen, sleek stainless steel appliances, spacious counters, handsome cabinetry, and a smart layout all promise ease and efficiency! A cohesive color palette ensures that this space is just as visually appealing as it is functional, and a few additional not-to-miss features include the big, scenic view into the backyard, several strategically placed electrical outlets for countertop appliances, and recessed lighting for a streamlined look. 

4. Sundrenched dining area & adjacent living area. 

In the dining area, a spectacular wall of windows brings the outside in. This sunny spot is perfect for sipping your morning cup of coffee or enjoying casual weekend brunches with loved ones. The adjacent living area is also filled with rejuvenating natural light thanks to gleaming windows, and a fireplace with floor-to-ceiling accents adds instant coziness! 

5. Primary suite offers a dreamy haven to unwind in. 

In this home’s primary suite you’ll find a comfortable bedroom with plush carpets, plus a huge walk-in closet and a sumptuous ensuite bath. In the bath, sunlight pours in overhead from the skylight, double sinks ensure convenience, and a soaking tub is ready for luxurious bubble baths. 

6. Immaculately manicured backyard offers a private outdoor oasis. 

In the fully fenced backyard, a secluded storybook getaway is ready for entertaining, relaxation, gardening, and play! Artistic landscaping features lush, established greenery, and you can admire the view while lounging on the patio, enjoying dinner out in the fresh air, or roasting marshmallows around the fire pit.

7. Fantastic University Place location surrounded by outdoor attractions and city amenities! 

At 6207 83rd Avenue W University Place, WA 98467 you’re in the heart of University Place, and this means that all UP conveniences are easily within reach! Charles Wright Academy is just a couple blocks away, and you’re also just minutes to other schools in the area. When you need to run errands, Fred Meyer is a quick 3-minute drive away, and as you head north along Bridgeport Way, you’re no more than 8 minutes from places like Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Safeway, and a large variety of eateries, shops, local services, etc. You’ll also find plenty of opportunity for enjoying the outdoors—Chambers Bay is only 3 minutes from home. Neighboring Steilacoom is also close by—you’re just a 7-minute drive to Sunnyside Beach and charming Downtown Steilacoom! 

Interested in learning more? Click here to view the full listing! You can also contact REALTOR® Ferrah Seifert online here or give her a call/text at (253) 970-7579.

Gig Harbor Real EstateListing TipsReturn on InvestmentSeller TipsTacoma AttractionsTacoma Real Estate June 16, 2021

Selling your Home in 2021

Deciding to sell you home can be a big decision. Taking the guess work out of it and getting you in a position of success is much easier than you may think. 

To sell or not to sell?  

Is it time to sell my home? If you find yourself asking this question, you are not alone! This market is undoubtedly an incredible seller’s market and the cats-out–of- the-bag on our little piece of Pierce County paradise. Inventory is trending around the same as previous years, meaning the reason for the market’s continuous growth comes down the actual demand.  We have more qualified home borrowers; low interest rates and… Washington has number one economy in the entire country!   In terms related to the current market, your bet is pretty good.  Market conditions aside, many of my clients are also looking to take advantage of higher home values and use the home equity in their current property towards the purchase of a dream or forever home.  Whether you’re looking to time the market like a perfect Hawaiian wave or you have a more practical reason. Such as a growing family, not needing to commute or retirement, I have some great resources designed to help you through the process of selling your home with ease.   

No Surprises  

A number of clients come to me hesitant to sell because of the fear that an aspect of their home would cause an issue or potentially delay the sale. For many, hearing what’s “wrong” with their home from a buyer’s inspection can seem deflating.  However, we have a great tool to combat that hesitation and take the surprise out of it.  I present…pre-inspection!  The beauty of conducting a pre-inspection is, it will help you determine the major issues (if any) and give you the opportunity to either fix the item(s) before you even go to market (leaky drain, service HVAC, update outlets). Or you can list your property and it will provide the buyer the opportunity to present an offer with the bigger challenges in mind (roof repairs, appliances, exterior paint).  The purpose of such disclosure, is time.  Some buyers will even waive an inspection if given a pre-inspection to consider. Saving 3 days to a week in your steps to close…hooray! Tools like a pre-inspection also provide peace of mind to both sides of the transaction. If you do decide to do a pre-inspection, choosing a reputable company is especially important.  Some will even provide a summery checklist that can be helpful reminders of the priority items, either before listing or before closing.      

Contingency is in the Eye of the Beholder

Remember when I referenced that little detail in the market right now called, demand? It’s great when selling your home! However, that high demand is also responsible for making some offers, especially contingent ones seem less attractive.  Because demand is so high and buyers are very qualified, it can lead to many offers being in cold, hard, cash.  Are you picturing a briefcase full of cash? Me neither. For all intents and purposes though, it’s a fun position to be in as a seller.  So, “what does this have to with selling my home?” you ask.  It’s less to do with actually selling your home and more to do with how you’ll use the current equity. If you’re looking to use the equity proceeds from your current home to purchase a new home AND you’re unable to qualify for the second mortgage without the sale of your current home, it may present a slight challenge in the timing of it all. Which is to say, it’s important to keep in mind the right offer and not just the highest or fastest closing one.  The old adage of “a million dollars now or a penny that double every day” comes to mind.  There are many options to consider if you do find yourself needing your equity to qualify for your new home. Many of my clients have been able to do a rent back, where you can rent your home for a desired period of time, (usually one to three months). The great thing is, you don’t have to move right away if you sell quickly. AND using this option will make the proceeds from your home liquid, giving you the very same “cash” leverage and competitive advantage for offers as you embark on your next purchase.  

Simply put, if you’re ready to make a move and sell your home, there is no time like the present! Taking pre-inspection and the changing landscape of contingencies into consideration can put you leaps and bounds ahead in your preparations to sell.  If you still have questions or are curious about home values in your neighborhood, let’s chat!  

 

Ferrah Seifert, REALTOR

253.970.7579

Ferrah@windermere.com

Buying TipsGig Harbor Real EstateReturn on InvestmentTacoma Real Estate June 16, 2021

Buying in Today’s Market

Buying a Home in 2021  

 Real estate is one of the best decisions you can make for your financial future, especially when you factor in the unknowns with renting.  Without question,  you’ll be sure to find that the financial benefit, both in tax deductions and long-term equity will far outweigh those of renting. Emotionally speaking, renting can leave you vulnerable to the whims of a landlord.  Even in times like today, when homes are selling for record prices, the reward of owning and gaining equity is far better than putting that money into someone else’s investment pocket.  High demand from qualified buyers and low interest rates, mean we are poised for continued growth and stability.  Which is why the threat of a bubble or anything resembling the financial crisis of 2008 is not likely.   If you read my article on “Thinkin About Selling your House” you know that the reason for the higher sales prices is because of a massive increase in demand. Due in large part to COVID-19 and the shift to more remote or hybrid working models. In addition, Millennial’s currently make up the largest population in the US. With growing families, requiring more space.  Even buyers that gained small fortunes through cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin are looking to diversify and put their money back into traditional assets such as a home. With the gift of hindsight, better lending practices for the last decade+ and the freedom to live further from the office, ,buyers have an incredible opportunity to make owning a home a reality.

 Crisis Averted 

Addressing the housing crisis of 2008 is important, not to drum up the ugly past, but to know why now is different. There is a lot to be gleaned from an experience like that and more importantly actions to be take.  Measures have been put in place to ensure history does not repeat itself.  With that said, for those of you that are still weary of the what the housing market has to offer, I find it important to snorkel some details of 2008 before we touch on today’s market. Let’s rewind the clock to 2008 – to a simpler time when Flo-Rida was getting people “Low” on the dance floor at weddings and the NY Giants won the super bowl. A world where side swooped bangs were all the rage and the financial world was just giving out money.  In the simplest terms, bad loans we given to people that could not afford them.   Loose lending practices such as “liar” or “ninja” loans were being approved without verification of assets or income. Crazy, right?!  The loans were set as ARM’s (adjustable-rate mortgage) and set to start adjusting all around the same time.  This lead to widespread defaults.  This to say, since then things got better, MUCH better.  Through tightened lending practices, income, employment and assets verifications now serve as a bare minimum in qualifying for a loan. Ensuring you don’t get yourself into a loan that you can’t afford.  Additionally, interest rates were lowered and continue to hover around record lows to encourage buying and investing.  Making your money go further and monthly payments more affordable. Even for a higher priced, high demand homes. We have learned a great deal since then, so, let’s take the bear market by the ears and run with it!

 Getting to the Heart of the Acceptance 

It’s no secret the game to offer and acceptance has changed or at least gotten more competitive. The practicalities of a closed transaction rely on a lot of financial factors, but it’s important to keep in mind the feelings and emotion that also gets wrapped up in all of it.  Have you stopped to wonder why some offers win? Moreover, why some brokers might have higher odds at helping their client get accepted?  I think you’ll find luck has less to do with it than you think.  Many times, it comes down to down to the negotiation process and the nuance of it.  Having a broker, you trust to have you back and best interests is the first step. You also want someone on your side that will dig deep and find the motivation of the seller and the sellers agent.  Is it the easiest deal? Is it a the lifelong home  of a seller wants it filled with a new family to grow up in?  Is it flexibility and the ability to do a rent back?  I go into negotiation with agents on behalf of my clients with two things in mind; is it fair and is it reasonable? My job is to position you in the best light and that often comes down to communication. I’ve had the opportunity to learn from some of the best and combine my real-life experience with my psychology background to do just that. That kind of  leverage is powerful.  I am here for you and you can rest easy knowing I will do what needs to be done.  Those that win the offer game are the ones who are not afraid to communicate the needs of their clients and aren’t afraid to get down to brass tacks for them. In some cases, you might even find out something new about your likes or needs. 

If you’re contemplating buying a home and you can, you should!  Take advantage of the low interest rates, responsible lenders and brokers that will go to bat for you. Set the fears of the past aside as teaching moments and remember to be realistic. It also never hurts to put the good energy out into the universe, visualize and manifest what buying a home looks like for you. I can’t wait to help you find the perfect home for you!

 

Ferrah Seifert

253.970.7579

Ferrah@windermere.com

@FerrahChino

Tacoma Real Estate June 15, 2021

Top 7 Highlights of this Remodeled 4-Bedroom, 2.5-Bath Home with Backyard Retreat in Tacoma’s West End 

Classic elegance, thoughtful updates, and room for all that life brings your way all await with this recently remodeled 1,890-square-foot residence in Tacoma’s West End! In addition to 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and 1 half bath, this timeless beauty features expansive living spaces replete with comfort and convenience. Picturesque outdoor amenities are yours to indulge in as well—make memories all summer long in the idyllic backyard that’s ready for entertaining, gardening, relaxation, and play! Located at 901 N Locust Lane Tacoma, WA 98406 and less than 5 minutes to Titlow Beach, Narrows Marina, Highway 16, schools, shopping and more, this West End dream home was listed for $625,000 and went pending in just 3 days! 

Take a moment to explore this home’s top 7 highlights: 

1. Updates let you move in with peace of mind. 

In 2020, this home went through some major upgrades; the roof, skylights, water heater, and A/C were all replaced! A refreshed fireplace is in the mix as well. 

2. Generous living spaces. 

This home’s sprawling layout is ready for it all, whether you need the space to host a crowd at your next get-together or you and loved ones need room to spread out. At the front of the home you’ll find the formal living area and formal dining space, and here, natural light pours in through large windows while vaulted ceilings let the space feel even larger. Having a designated space for entertaining is a dream for those who love to play host! 

Toward the back of the home, an open-concept layout features living spaces ready for more casual hangouts. Like-new hardwood floors flow from the kitchen into a dining area and adjacent living space, where a stately fireplace serves as the room’s focal point. The effortlessly flowing layout makes it easy to spend time with loved ones, yet you can have your own space when you need some quiet and time to yourself! 

3. Immaculate kitchen. 

When you step into the kitchen, it’s immediately evident that it’s been meticulously cared for, and the timeless aesthetic is made all the more attractive thanks to ample natural light! Highlights include soft-close cabinets, lovely counters, a pantry, and a smart overall layout where everything you need is easily within reach. 

4. Excellent flexibility thanks to 4 bedrooms. 

Need a home office (or 2), a study space, an at-home fitness center, or a playroom? This home offers flexible square footage ready to be transformed to suit your evolving needs. And don’t miss the bedroom suite—in addition to a spacious bedroom layout, a walk-in closet with built-ins and an ensuite bath that includes double sinks are both at your fingertips! 

5. Huge 3-car garage brimming with potential. 

Even more versatility can be enjoyed in the 3-car garage. Of course, you can park your vehicles here to keep them out of the weather, but you’ll also find tons of room to work on projects here. There’s also plenty of storage along the walls and in the rafters above. 

6. Secluded backyard retreat. 

Tucked away behind this home, you’ll find a private backyard getaway surrounded by lush greenery! A sprinkler and drip system lets you have green grass year-round, and furry friends can enjoy a dog run and exploring the fully fenced yard. A cute greenhouse offers storage for garden tools and the perfect spot to get plants started in, and those who love to garden are sure to feel inspired in this verdant haven! A wisteria covered pergola frames the sprawling deck, and built-in bench seating ensures there’s room for everyone at your next BBQ. 

7. Ideal location close to local destinations and top-notch amenities!  

At 901 N Locust Lane Tacoma, WA 98406, you’re less than 5 minutes to Titlow Beach, Narrows Marina, Highway 16, schools, shopping and more. Titlow Beach and Titlow Park are less than 1 mile away, and the nearby Narrows Marina offers iconic waterfront dining at places like Boathouse 19. When you need to run errands, Fred Meyer and many surrounding eateries and local services are only 5 minutes away, and you’ll find more variety along Bridgeport Way in University Place just south. Those who commute are also sure to appreciate being just a 4-minute drive to hop onto Highway 16. 

Interested in learning more? Click here to view the full listing! You can also contact REALTOR® Ferrah Seifert online here or give her a call/text at (253) 970-7579.

Uncategorized July 10, 2020

6 Standout Features of this 2015-Built Rambler with Secluded Backyard in Port Orchard

This 3-bedroom, 1.75-bath rambler is wonderfully move-in ready and shines like new! Built in 2015 and replete with modern finishes and immaculately maintained space, this Port Orchard home offers easy living and plenty of space to spread out in. In addition to the 1,179-square-foot layout, a fully fenced backyard offers a tranquil getaway with ample opportunity for play, relaxation, and entertaining. Located at 948 SW View Dr Port Orchard, WA 98367, this rambler is listed for $325,000. 

Click here to view the 3D tour! 

This turn-key treasure offers a long list of not-to-miss amenities, and here are 7 of this home’s standout feature: 

1. Beautiful like-new home sparkles with contemporary style. 

Move right in without worrying about a thing—this 2015-built beauty shows off a blend of modern finishes and timeless design that ensures this home will age with ease. Hardwood floors, calm neutral color palettes, crisp white trim, and elegant fixtures throughout create a cohesive aesthetic that has room for your own personal flair. 

2. Inviting open layout. 

The entryway effortlessly guides you into the great room, and the open layout offers a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to spend quality time with loved ones. Relax in peace and quiet or entertain guests in the living area, enjoy laid-back meals and celebrate special occasions like in the dining area, and find both top-notch function and fashion in the well-appointed kitchen. 

3. The kitchen ensures that meal prep and entertaining are both a breeze! 

First things first: this kitchen promises efficiency with its stainless steel appliances, spacious granite counters, and generous storage options (which include the rich cabinetry and pantry closet). A breakfast bar offers extra seating, the ideal perch for visiting with guests, and is the perfect spot for a buffer at your next get-together! 

4. Lovely master suite amenities. 

When it’s time to unwind after a long day, it’s an absolute delight to know that you have a sumptuous master suite waiting for you—a walk-in closet and an attached ¾ bath are all in the mix! 

5. Huge backyard retreat. 

Surrounded by lush, mature trees that offer privacy and a view, this property gives you your very own park-like setting so you can take in the fresh air and enjoy the sunshine without having to leave the comfort of home-sweet-home! A deck overlooks the view, and the yard is brimming with potential—set up a play toy area, build out a deck or patio, cultivate a garden where you grow your own fruits and veggies… there’s room for it all! 

6. Excellent location that offers both a peaceful setting and easy highway access. 

At 948 SW View Dr Port Orchard, WA 98367, you’re 3 minutes to the local elementary school and just 7 minutes to hop onto Highway 16. You’re also no more than 10-12 minutes to find grocery stores, shopping, restaurants, local services and much more! 

Interested in learning more? Click here to view the full listing! You can also contact REALTOR® Ferrah Seifert online here or give her a call/text at (253) 970-7579.

Port Orchard Real Estate July 10, 2020

6 Standout Features of this 2015-Built Rambler with Secluded Backyard in Port Orchard 

This 3-bedroom, 1.75-bath rambler is wonderfully move-in ready and shines like new! Built in 2015 and replete with modern finishes and immaculately maintained square footage, this Port Orchard home offers easy living and plenty of space to spread out in. In addition to the 1,179-square-foot layout, a fully fenced backyard offers a tranquil getaway with ample opportunity for play, relaxation, and entertaining. Located at 948 SW View Dr Port Orchard, WA 98367, this rambler is listed for $325,000. 

Click here to view the 3D tour! 

This turn-key treasure offers a long list of not-to-miss amenities, and here are 6 of this home’s standout feature: 

1. Beautiful like-new home sparkles with contemporary style. 

Move right in without worrying about a thing—this 2015-built beauty shows off a blend of modern finishes and timeless design that ensures this home will age with ease. Hardwood floors, calm neutral color palettes, crisp white trim, and elegant fixtures throughout create a cohesive aesthetic that has room for your own personal flair. 

2. Inviting open layout. 

The entryway effortlessly guides you into the great room, and the open layout offers a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to spend quality time with loved ones. Relax in peace and quiet or entertain guests in the living area, enjoy laid-back meals and celebrate special occasions alike in the dining area, and find both top-notch function and fashion in the well-appointed kitchen. 

3. The kitchen ensures that meal prep and entertaining are both a breeze! 

First thing’s first: this kitchen promises efficiency with its stainless steel appliances, spacious granite counters, and generous storage options (which include the rich cabinetry and pantry closet). A breakfast bar offers extra seating, the ideal perch for visiting with guests, and is the perfect spot for a buffet at your next get-together! 

4. Lovely master suite amenities. 

When it’s time to unwind after a long day, it’s an absolute delight to know that you have a sumptuous master suite waiting for you! In addition to the spacious bedroom (where you’ll find lovely views of Pacific Northwest greenery and cozy carpets), a walk-in closet and an attached ¾ bath are all in the mix! 

5. Huge backyard retreat. 

Surrounded by lush, mature trees that offer privacy and a view, this property gives you your very own park-like setting so you can take in the fresh air and enjoy the sunshine without having to leave the comfort of home-sweet-home! A deck overlooks the view, and the yard is brimming with potential—set up a play toy area, build out a deck or patio, cultivate a garden where you can grow your own fruits and veggies… there’s room for it all! 

6. Excellent location offers both a peaceful setting and easy highway access. 

At 948 SW View Dr Port Orchard, WA 98367, you’re 3 minutes to the local elementary school and just 7 minutes to hop onto Highway 16. You’re also no more than 10-12 minutes to find grocery stores, shopping, restaurants, local services and much more! 

Interested in learning more? Click here to view the full listing! You can also contact REALTOR® Ferrah Seifert online here or give her a call/text at (253) 970-7579.

Tacoma Attractions April 28, 2020

Three of the Most Walkable  Neighborhoods in Tacoma: Downtown Tacoma

Let’s continue our discussion on walkability with our next neighborhood, Downtown Tacoma!

Downtown Tacoma is a walker and biker paradise! No surprise, right? As you wander around Pacific Ave., you’ll stumble along various outstanding vendors and museums. Starting on the corner of 21st  and Pacific Ave., you’ll find the Harmon, Tacoma’s original craft brewery with tasty beers and pizza. If you’re interested in a quick brewery tour, you can also swing by 7 Seas right up the street on 21st.

Want a fine dining experience? Look no further than Indochine Asian Dining Lounge, which has superior cocktail and Thai fusion entrees that will make your mouth water. I worked there for many years and never have gotten bored of their diverse menu and top notch service. You can also grab a quick bite at Senergo, Than Brother Pho or Sam Choy’s Poke to the Max.

When you cruise along this strip of business in front of University of Washington Tacoma, it’s impossible to not stop by Little Sister or Satori Boutique. I’m addicted to Little Sister’s eco-conscious skincare products and Satori’s trendy display of high-end fashion that doesn’t break the bank. Plus, these two businesses are owned by a local Fashionista and Boss Babe, Diamond.

Once again, I digress into food and shopping. What else is around Downtown Tacoma? Plenty! The Studio is a Pilates studio with Reformer machines that activates muscles that you didn’t even know you had. Their inclusive environment makes newcomers feel welcomed – they even have Foundations classes that give newbies the opportunity to learn the ropes (literally).  Within a short walking distance from here you can check out the Washington State History Museum, the Museum of Glass, and Tacoma Art Museum (TAM).

As you continue down Pacific Ave, you’ll pass mom favorites like Children’s Museum and Attune Collective before arriving at Yoga Wild. This yoga studio offers sliding-scale pricing, inclusive social media, and community involvement. They aim to reach a population outside of the typical yoga demographic and bring people together under the umbrella of their core values: nature, community, yoga. Their light-filled studio is located in the basement of old Post Hall that also features a community workspace, The Pioneer Collective. You can rent conference rooms, classrooms or simply drop-in for an afternoon to work in a gorgeous setting. I’m actually writing this article there right now! 😉

If you want to grab happy hour with a friend, Matador has signature margaritas that are delicious and their Happy Hour  menu will make sure you leave with a full and happy belly.  But if you are still hungry or wouldn’t mind just one more cocktail, Wooden City is right across the street. This picturesque restaurant offers outdoor space, airy design and scrumptious menu items.

Any gamers out there? Be sure to check out the Dorky’s Arcade with a wide selection of pinball machines, classic and new video games that will be sure to delight people of all ages. Remember after 9pm, it’s 21+.

If you’re in the area after dark and like to sing karaoke, do yourself a favor and stop by The Mix or Puget Sound Pizza. I’ve had countless nights watching Drag Queens sing karaoke at The Mix and they are some of my favorite memories—trust me they do NOT disappoint.

Enough about what I think, what are your favorite Tacoma businesses?

Interested in buying a home in this neighborhood? Click here for dialed in search of homes for sale in Downtown Tacoma.

 

Tacoma Attractions April 19, 2020

Three of the Most Walkable  Neighborhoods in Tacoma: Proctor District

One of the topics that is consistently brought up by my buyers is the walkability of a neighborhood. Who doesn’t want to be able to walk to a local coffee shop on Saturday morning with your pup?

So, what neighborhoods have the best walkability in Tacoma? I’ve done a little research and here are my findings:

Proctor District has the huge benefit of giving patrons the option to accomplish most errands on foot. There is Olympia Coffee, which is one of my personal favorites, and Starbucks across the street. You can pick up groceries from Metropolitan Market, Safeway or the local farmers market each Saturday.

What is your favorite type of cuisine? There is a high likelihood that Proctor has you covered with classics like Peaks and Pints, Pomodoro Italian Restaurant & Bar, and East & West. Not to forget the new kids on the block—Crudo & Cotto and Cactus Proctor are quickly becoming local staples!

Shops in the neighborhood never disappoint with a plethora of local goods at your viewing and purchasing pleasure. I’ve never walked into Compass Rose without buying something or reluctantly tearing myself away from a household item, baby item, or piece of jewelry. This store is my go-to for gift shopping! And with Chirp & Go a few doors down and Fern Seed around the block from Compass Rose, you don’t have to go far to satisfy your gardening and indoor plant cravings.

Fern Seed

Okay, okay, enough with the shopping… What else can you do in Proctor District? As Washington’s oldest continuously operating theater opening November 23, 1923, The Blue Moose Theater is a Tacoma staple. They play movies for discounted prices and feature an interactive Rocky Horror Picture show two Saturdays a month. I remember going as a teenager and I will never forget it.

As an avid yogi, I’m also extremely thankful for TacOMa Yoga! This studio offers alignment, vinyasa and yin classes to appeal to every student. Each teacher I’ve had the honor of taking a class from has been exceptional.

Enough about what I think, what are your favorite Tacoma businesses?

Interested in buying a home in this neighborhood? Click here for dialed in search of homes in Tacoma’s Proctor District.