For more information on preparing to sell your home, visit my Home Selling Guide:
2023 Seattle & Eastside Farmers Markets: Locations, Times & More
Summer is finally here, and so are these farmers markets! Spend an evening or weekend finding your new favorites among the tents. Think it’s all about kale? Think again. Most offer live entertainment along with a mouth-watering variety of local brews, cheese, bread, meat/seafood, honey, hand roasted coffee, and other hidden gems (in addition to the freshly picked fruits & veggies).
Seattle Metro
- Ballard
- Capitol Hill (Broadway)
- Columbia City
- Lake City
- Lake Forest Park
- Madrona
- Magnolia
- Phinney
- Pike Place
- Queen Anne
- Shoreline
- U-District
- Wallingford
- West Seattle
Greater Eastside
- Bellevue – Crossroads
- Bellevue – Downtown
- Carnation
- Duvall
- Issaquah
- Kirkland – Downtown
- Kirkland – Juanita
- Mercer Island (Sponsored by Windermere MI!)
- North Bend
- Redmond
- Renton
- Sammamish
- Woodinville
Seattle Metro
Ballard
Seattle’s first year-round Farmers Market, selling produce exclusively from Washington state farmers along the historic cobblestone stretch of Ballard Ave.
Sundays, 9am – 2pm | Year-Round
5345 Ballard Ave NW | Seattle
sfmamarkets.com/visit-ballard-farmers-market/
Capitol Hill (Broadway)
Come for Sunday brunch from food vendors who source ingredients from local, WA state farms (many of whom you’ll also meet selling their wares at the market). Live music and street performers often make an appearance, too.
Sundays, 11am – 3pm | Year-Round
Tuesdays, 3pm – 7pm (July 11 – September 26, 2023)
E Barbara Bailey Way | Seattle
seattlefarmersmarkets.org/chfm
Columbia City
With everything from freshly harvested Asian greens to Ethiopian eats, come check out the immense variety King County’s most diverse zip code has to offer. Bring your bounty to adjacent Columbia Park for a picnic.
Wednesdays, 3pm – 7pm | May 3 – Oct 11, 2023
37th Ave S | Seattle
seattlefarmersmarkets.org/ccfm
Lake City
This celebrated North End seasonal market offers unique finds grown and prepared by local farms and food artisans. Enjoy kids’ activities, too!
Thursdays, 3pm – 7pm | June 8 – Oct 5, 2023
NE 125th St & 28th Ave NE | Seattle
seattlefarmersmarkets.org/lcfm
Lake Forest Park
With an emphasis on fresh, locally grown food, this market is an epicurean’s delight. Browse hard cider, baked goods, preserves, meat, pasta, sauces, and prepared foods along with the locally harvested fruits and veggies. There is also one “Crafts Market” each summer featuring local artisans.
Sundays, 10am – 2pm | May 14 – Oct 15, 2023
17171 Bothell Way NE | Lake Forest Park
www.thirdplacecommons.org/farmers-market
Madrona
Located in one of Seattle’s most diverse neighborhoods, you’ll find artisan foods as well as seasonal produce from Washington state farmers, fishers, and ranchers.
Fridays, 3pm – 7pm | May 12 – Oct 27, 2023
MLK Way & E Union St | Seattle
sfmamarkets.com/madrona-farmers-market
Magnolia
This popular Saturday market is nestled in the tree-lined Magnolia Village. In addition to seasonal fruits and veggies, you’ll find sweet & savory pies, fresh bread, flowers, and more!
Saturdays, 10am – 2pm | June 3 – Oct 14, 2023 + Harvest Market on Nov 18, 2023
W McGraw St & 33rd Ave W | Seattle
seattlefarmersmarkets.org/mfm
Phinney
A popular gathering spot for both the Phinney Ridge and Greenwood communities, this market is right next door to a playground and offers live music in addition to the great mix of fresh produce and prepared food.
Fridays, 3pm – 7pm | June 2 – Sept 29, 2023
6761 Phinney Ave N | Seattle
seattlefarmersmarkets.org/pfm
Pike Place
No introduction needed…make it a day with great restaurants, eateries and retail shops, too.
Daily, 9am – 6pm | Year-Round (Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas)
Pike Place between Pine & Virginia St | Seattle
(206) 682-7453
pikeplacemarket.org
Queen Anne
Seattle’s only independent farmers market, offering food, chef demos, live music, and children’s activities.
Thursdays, 3pm – 7:30pm | June 1 – Oct 12, 2023 + Harvest Markets on 10/28, 11/18 & 12/16
Queen Anne Ave N & W Crockett St | Seattle
qafm.org
Shoreline
Starting this year in their NEW location at the Shoreline Park & Ride, this market offers kids’ programs and live music in addition to its fresh Washington produce, organic meats, bread, honey, and prepared foods. Check out the schedule for info about vendors and entertainment.
Saturdays, 10am – 2pm | June 3 – Oct 7, 2023 + Harvest Markets on 10/28 & 12/16
18821 Aurora Ave N | Shoreline
shorelinefarmersmarket.org
University District
Seattle’s only independent farmers market, offering food, chef demos, live music, and children’s activities.
Saturdays, 9am – 2pm | Year-Round
University Way NE (the “Ave”) between 50th & 52nd | Seattle
seattlefarmersmarkets.org/udfm
Wallingford
Located in Meridian Park, you can shop with the whole fam and then enjoy a picnic or playtime at the award-winning playground.
Wednesdays, 3pm – 7pm | May 24 – Sept 27, 2023
4800 Meridian Ave N | Seattle
sfmamarkets.com/visit-wallingford-farmers-market/
West Seattle
A South Seattle weekend destination, this market is set in the vibrant West Seattle Junction and features up to 70 vendors during the summertime peak. Great community atmosphere celebrating Washington grown food and ingredients.
Sundays, 10am – 2pm | Year-Round
California Ave SW & SW Alaska | Seattle
seattlefarmersmarkets.org/wsfm
Greater Eastside
Bellevue – Crossroads
East Bellevue’s market features fruits, veggies & dairy products from Washington state farms along with handmade soaps, candles, greeting cards, herbal wellness products, and more. Don’t missed the locally roasted coffee and handmade ice cream sandwiches, too!
Tuesdays, 12pm – 6pm | June 6 – Sept 26, 2023
15600 NE 8th St | Bellevue
https://crossroadsbellevue.com/music-events/crossroads-farmers-market/
Bellevue – Downtown
Set in the heart of Downtown Bellevue, this market offers goods exclusively produced within Washington state—from seasonal fruits & veggies to flowers, fresh meats, artisan goods, and prepared cuisine. The Kids’ POP club empowers kids to know where their food comes from and make healthy eating choices.
Thursdays, 3pm – 7pm | May 18 – Oct 19, 2023
1717 Bellevue Way NE | Bellevue
Spring District: First Wednesday of the month, May – October
12167 NE 14th Terrace | Bellevue
bellevuefarmersmarket.org
Carnation
Set in the heart of the Sno-Valley farming district, you’ll find plenty of freshly picked produce along with live music and educational activities for the kids.
Tuesdays, 3pm – 7pm | June, July & August 2023 (closed July 4th)
Tolt-MacDonald Park, 31020 NE 40th St | Carnation
Map
carnationfarmersmarket.org
Duvall
Nestled alongside the scenic Snoqualmie River, this friendly market features local eggs, jams, fresh roasted coffee, arts, crafts, and baked goods in addition to the seasonal veggies, fruits, and plant starts. Live music, picnic shelters and a playground make this a fun family destination.
Thursday, 3pm – 7pm | May 4 – October 12, 2023
Taylor Landing at 16201 Main St NE | Duvall
duvallfarmersmarket.org
Issaquah
Located at the historic Pickering Barn, this picturesque venue offers a variety of fresh farm and food-based products, concessions, and local artisans.
Saturdays, 9am – 2pm | May 6 – Sept 30, 2023
Pickering Barn, 1730 10th Ave NW | Issaquah
www.issaquahwa.gov/778/Farmers-Market
Kirkland – Downtown
This stunning setting on the Lake Washington shoreline turns shopping into a day at the beach. Peruse local produce and goods, then go for a swim or stroll along Moss Bay. Perfect for a picnic, too!
Wednesdays, 3pm – 7pm | June 7 – September 27, 2023
Marina Park, 25 Lakeshore Plaza | Kirkland
kirklandmarket.org
Kirkland – Juanita
Set in beautiful Juanita Beach Park on Lake Washington, you’ll find as many as 30 vendors offering farm fresh local produce, herbs, honey, nuts, flowers, plants, baked good, handcrafted items, and prepared cuisine. Make it a date with live music and a picnic at the beach. There’s a great playground for the kids, too.
Fridays, 3pm – 7pm | June – Sept, 2023
Juanita Beach Park, 9703 NE Juanita Dr | Kirkland
www.kirklandwa.gov
Mercer Island
Come on down for quality local Washington state produce, cheese, fish, meat, bread, and more. Check out the live music schedule, too!
Sundays, 10am – 2pm | June 4 – Oct 8, 2023
7700 SE 32nd St | Mercer Island
www.mifarmersmarket.org
North Bend
This relaxed market enjoys live music and a spectacular Mount Si view. Vendors offer fresh produce, berries, honey, flowers, baked goods, hand-crafted items, and delicious prepared foods. Two playgrounds plus play fields and a covered picnic shelter make this a fun hangout spot. Leashed pets are welcome, too!
Thursdays, 4pm – 8pm | June 8 – Sept 7, 2023
Si View Park, 400 SE Orchard Dr | North Bend
www.siviewpark.org/farmers-market.phtml
Redmond
Going strong since 1976, the Redmond Saturday Market offers a huge selection of vendors and dazzling array of produce, flowers, cheeses, preserves, salmon, tea, and handmade goods such as pottery and soaps. You’ll love the ready-to-eat foods, too.
Saturdays, 9am – 2pm | May 13 – Oct 28, 2023
9900 Willows Rd | Redmond
www.redmondsaturdaymarket.org
Renton
Find exclusively Washington-produced fruits, veggies, handmade goods, arts, crafts and more right in the heart of downtown Renton at Piazza Park. Food trucks, live music, and kids’ activities such as the “Healthy Kids Corner” make this a fun spot to liven up your Tuesday.
Tuesdays, 3pm – 7pm | June – Sept, 2023
Piazza Park, 233 Burnett Ave. S | Renton
www.rentonfarmersmarket.com
Sammamish
Each Wednesday, the Sammamish Commons plays host to a variety of local farmers, nurseries, bakeries, artisans, food vendors, and more. Live music and kids’ activities, too!
Wednesdays, 4pm – 8pm | May – Sept, 2023
Sammamish Commons, 801 228 Ave SE | Sammamish
www.sammamishfarmersmarket.org
Woodinville
Come check out downtown Woodinville’s newly renovated Schoolhouse District and find produce grown in the state of Washington (and picked fresh for that morning!). You’ll also have an array of boutique baked goods, sauces, cider, artisans, and more to peruse. Check out the calendar for live entertainment, music, demos, and other activities.
Saturdays, 10am – 3pm | May – Sept, 2023
13205 NE 175th St | Woodinville
woodinvillefarmersmarket.com
© Copyright 2022-2023, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island.
Favorite Summer Festivals
The sun is here and the whole PNW is celebrating! Whether it’s a fair close to home or an excuse to pack up the fam for a destination festival, I hope you get out and make the most of these fun events…
JUNE
JULY
- Seafair Summer 4th (7/4)
- Redmond Derby Days (7/14-7/15)
- Ballard Seafood Fest (7/14-7/16)
- Kirkland Uncorked (7/14-7/16)
- West Seattle Summer Fest (7/14-7/16)
- Mercer Island Summer Celebration (7/15)
- Renton River Days (7/21-7/23)
- Bite of Seattle (7/21-7/23)
- Sequim Lavender Weekend (7/21-7/23)
- Timber! Outdoor Music Festival (7/27-7/29)
- Bellevue Arts & Crafts Fair (7/28-7/30)
AUGUST
- Seafair Weekend (8/4-8/6)
- Watershed at the Gorge (8/4-8/6)
- Festival at Mount Si (8/12-8/13)
- Chief Seattle Days (8/18-8/20)
- CHOMP Redmond Food Festival (8/19)
- Evergreen State Fair (8/24-9/4)
- Port Townsend THING Music/Art Festival (8/25-8/27)
SEPTEMBER
- Washington State (Puyallup) Fair (9/1-9/24)
- Bumbershoot (9/2-9/3)
- Mercer Island Art UnCorked (9/8)
- Fremont Oktoberfest (9/22-9/24)
JUNE
Fremont Fair
One of Seattle’s biggest events, this bohemian-inspired festival features 300+ craft vendors, food, beer garden, dog parade, music, and the Solstice Parade (including the unofficial but famous naked bide ride).
Saturday, June 17 & Sunday, June 18, 2023
West of Fremont Ave N, on N 35th St. and N 34th St.
Seattle PrideFest
Held in two locations (Capitol Hill & Seattle Center) this year with beer gardens, food, performances, and dancing in the Seattle Center fountain.
Saturday, June 24th – Capitol Hill
310 Broadway E | Seattle
Sunday, June 25th – Seattle Center
305 Harrison St | Seattle
JULY
SeaFair Summer Fourth
Seattle’s biggest fireworks show plus live music, family activities & beer gardens. Watch the show from free open seating or reserve a front row seat.
Tuesday, July 4th, 2023
Gates Open at 3pm, Fireworks at 10:15pm
Redmond Derby Days
Redmond’s bike-themed summer event including bicycle races, kids bike parade, carnival rides, drone light show, craft fair, arts festival, food, cornhole tourney, and live music.
Friday, July 14th & Saturday, July 15th, 2023
Ballard Seafood Fest
Live music, salmon BBQ, kids entertainment, vendors, and excellent craft beer. Don’t miss the Festi-Bowl skateboard events at Ballard Commons Park on Saturday, the 15th.
Friday, July 14th – Sunday, July 16th, 2023
2208 NW Market St | Seattle (on Market St from Leary to 24th Ave NW, and on Ballard Ave from Market St to 22nd Ave NW)
Kirkland Uncorked
Sip local wine, beer or cocktails and listen to live music in beautiful Marina Park on the water. There’s also a street fair with crafts, art, food, dog modeling contest (!), and more. Buy tickets here (proceeds benefit the Homeward Pet Adoption Center).
Friday, July 14th – Sunday, July 16th, 2023
West Seattle Summer Fest
Live bands, arts & crafts booths, outdoor cafes, beer garden, and fun Kids Zone with inflatables.
Friday, July 14th – Sunday, July 16th, 2023
The Junction, 4210 SW Oregon St | Seattle
Mercer Island Summer Celebration
Parade and lively street fair at Mercerdale Park followed by a waterfront fireworks show at Luther Burbank Park.
Saturday, July 15th, 2023
Fireworks at 10pm
Mercerdale Park Fair: 3009 77th Ave SE | Mercer Island
Luther Burbank Park (Fireworks): 2040 84th Ave SE | Mercer Island
mercerisland.gov/summercelebration
Renton River Days
Summer bazaar, parade, rubber duck derby, live music, food trucks, beer/wine gardens, activity zone, drone show, volleyball & basketball tourneys, and 5k/10k Fun Walks on the Cedar River Trail.
Friday, July 21st – Sunday, July 23rd, 2023
Bite of Seattle
200 vendors, 50+ music performances (including Sir Mix-a-Lot!), 3 beer gardens, wine garden, & more.
Friday, July 21st – Sunday, July 23rd, 2023
Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St | Seattle
Sequim Lavender Weekend
Celebrate all things lavender with tours of local farms, live music, and 150 street fair booths highlighting NW crafts & food.
Friday, July 21st – Sunday, July 23rd, 2023
Carrie Blake Park, 500 N Blake Ave | Sequim
Timber! Outdoor Music Festival
In addition to a wide range of local musicians, discover adventures like bat/bird finding expeditions, hiking, biking, tree climbing, nature painting/photography, yoga, 5K run, coffee walk, obstacle course, stargazing, fika (a Swedish morning tradition), shibori shirt dyeing, and lots of kids activities. Enjoy great food & local brews, too.
Thursday, July 27 – Saturday, July 29, 2023
Tolt-MacDonald Park, 31020 NE 40th St | Carnation
Bellevue Arts Fair
Shop from over 300 artists showcasing their handmade arts & crafts. Kids Fair, food trucks, stage performances, and free Bellevue Art Museum exhibitions, too!
Friday, July 28th – Sunday, July 30th, 2023
Bellevue Square, 510 Bellevue Way NE | Bellevue
AUGUST
Seafair Weekend
Seattle’s iconic festival featuring a spectacular airshow, hydroplane races, classic car show, live music, local food/beverages, and log boom party for boaters.
Friday, August 4th – Sunday, August 6th, 2023
Genesee Park, 4316 S Genesee St | Seattle
Watershed
If you’re a country music fan, then this destination festival at the Gorge is for you. Three days of live bands plus carnival rides, food, drinks, and camping.
Friday, August 4th – Sunday, August 6th, 2023
The Gorge Ampitheatre, 754 Silica Rd NW | Quincy
Festival at Mount Si
This street fair in scenic North Bend offers music, a parade, 5K fun run, cherry pie eating contest, and even a live chili cookoff (not to mention food and craft vendors!). Make it a day and visit the outlet mall or go hiking while you’re at it.
Saturday, August 12th & Sunday, August 13th, 2023
Si View Park, 400 SE Orchard Dr | North Bend
Chief Seattle Days
A celebration of the Suquamish people honoring Chief Seattle since 1911, this festival is now open to the public and includes canoe races, a salmon bake, 5k fun run, market, games, traditional songs & dances, and a gravesite honoring for Chief Seattle.
Friday, August 18th – Sunday, August 20th, 2023
Gravesite Honoring of Chief Seattle: 7076 NE South St | Suquamish
CHOMP Local Food Festival
A King County celebration of all that is local, sustainable, fresh…and delicious. Spend the day at beautiful Willowmoor Farm in Marymoor Park and support area farms. Live music, local food vendors, all-ages activities, and zucchini races, too!
Saturday, August 19th, 2023 from 10am to 6pm
Marymoor Park, 6046 West Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE | Redmond
Evergreen State Fair
Held each year during the 11 days leading up to Labor Day (for the past 114 years!), this fair offers a little of everything—a fun carnival with rides/games, food, shopping, contests, live events, and more.
August 24th – September 4th, 2023
(Closed Wednesday, August 30th)
THING: Music, Arts & Other Things
The ultimate destination festival, this 3-day event takes place amongst scenic sound views at Port Townsend’s historic Fort Worden (it’s even got a lighthouse!). In addition to an epic music lineup, you’ll also find art installations, workshops, and activities for all ages.
Friday, August 25th – Sunday, August 27th, 2023
200 Battery Way | Port Townsend
SEPTEMBER
Washington State (Puyallup) Fair
A September tradition, peeps all around the Sound flock to “Do the Puyallup.” You’ll find your favorite carnival rides, a concert series, rodeo, petting farm, and a plethora of exhibits & vendors.
September 1st – 24th, 2023
Bumbershoot
Seattle’s biggest music festival and a 50-year tradition. This year you’ll find a great music lineup along with everything art, dance, performances, roller skating, and…a cat circus.
Saturday, September 2nd – Sunday, September 3rd, 2023
Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St | Seattle
Mercer Island Art UnCorked
Discover Washington wine, beer & cider while you browse local artists at this outdoor event in Mercer Island’s Greta Hackett Outdoor Sculpture Gallery. Tasting garden, artist booths, live music, food trucks, and more.
Friday, September 8th, 2023 | 5-8 pm
78th Ave SE & Sunset Hwy | Mercer Island
Fremont Oktoberfest
Celebrate 100+ beers and ciders along with games, Texas Chainsaw Pumpkin Carving, and Dogtoberfest. Strictly 21+…unless you’re a dog.
Friday, September 22nd – Sunday, September 24th, 2023
© Copyright 2023, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island.
7 Simple Ways to Boost Your Curb Appeal
When it comes time to sell your home, first impressions are crucial. Improving your curb appeal will catch buyers’ attention and go a long way toward selling quickly and for the best price. Here are seven affordable changes you can make that have a big impact…
1. Lush Up Your Lawn
A healthy, well-tended lawn will make your home look even more impressive when you start hosting open houses. Clean up all weeds, leaves, and debris, and consistently water to give it that fresh green look. Mow regularly, but not too short or you’ll damage the grass and invite weeds (experts recommend a minimum 3″ height for the Pacific NW). Consider a nitrate-rich fertilizer to keep the grass extra lush and green.
2. Refresh Your Door
Your front door is an opportunity to make a tasteful statement. Look at bold color choices that are within or slightly stretch your home’s exterior color palette. Take time to prepare the surface for a fresh coat of paint to make the color pop as much as possible and try stylish doorknob options that accentuate the aesthetic to give your door some added flair.
3. Update Your House Numbers
New and stylish house numbers are an easy, eye-catching addition to how your home is perceived by buyers. Look for styles that match with your exterior color palette and any exterior lighting fixtures.
4. Plant Colorfully
Adding colorful variety to your front yard will grab buyers’ attention. Align smaller plants like ground cover and flowers neatly within your flower beds, aiming for symmetry when possible. Use larger plants and trees to frame in your entryway or walkup. If your front yard doesn’t have flower beds, try adding hanging planters or window boxes. Because you’ll be competing against nearby listings, it’s landscaping projects like these that can make all the difference in your listing photos.
5. Upgrade Your Lighting
Adding landscape lighting will boost your curb appeal during nighttime, accentuate your shrubbery, and add a welcoming touch for potential buyers, lighting the way to your door.
While we’re on the subject, make sure your house lights are functional. Consider replacing dated fixtures with stylish new versions. Features like automatic dawn-to-dusk sensors will also come in handy if the home will be vacant while it’s listed.
6. Power Wash
Pressure washing your walkways and driveways can instantly improve your curb appeal. If buying a pressure washer is outside your budget, explore rental options from hardware stores in your area.
7. Add an Inviting Touch
Incorporating classic front porch elements like a porch swing, sitting bench, and other outdoor furniture gives a welcoming aura to your home’s entry and creates a sense of comfort for prospective buyers.
Adapted from an article that originally appeared on the Windermere blog April 19th, 2023. Written by: Sandy Dodge.
© Copyright 2023, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island.
Your Guide to Going Solar
To reduce your carbon footprint, increase your household’s sustainability, and add value to your property, solar power may be right for you. Understanding how solar works and how to maximize its benefits are key first steps in your journey to becoming a solar energy-producing household.
How does solar power work?
The technology that turns your house into a solar energy-harnessing hub is called photovoltaics, more commonly known as PV. PV works by fielding direct sunlight and absorbing its photons into the solar panels’ cells, which then creates electricity that provides energy for your home. This energy reduces your home’s output of carbon and other pollutants, which translates to cleaner air and water.
With the sun as your power source, the majority of the power generation occurs during the middle of the day, making summer the highest producing season. Rooftop panels work best when they are exposed to sunlight, free of shade or shadow from nearby trees or structures. Given the sun’s east-to-west path, south-facing roofs are best-suited for maximizing your solar power. To see if your roof is set up for success, consult a mapping service or solar calculator to establish your roof’s suitability. If your roof isn’t up to standard, you can explore alternatives such as ground mount solar installations and community solar gardens.
Components of Solar Power
- Solar Panels: Capture the sun’s energy
- Inverter: Converts the sun’s energy to a form that powers devices
- Racking: The foundation that holds your solar system in place
- Batteries: Store the energy generated
- Charge Controller: Controls how quickly the batteries charge
What are the benefits of solar power?
Sustainability: Having a renewable source of energy coursing through your home reduces your household’s carbon footprint by converting a significant portion of your home’s energy to solar power.
Save Money: How much money you save by going solar depends largely on how much energy your household consumes and the energy output of your solar panels. The cost of solar power has steadily decreased over time, so you are more likely to save as time goes on. For information on state incentives and tax breaks, explore what options apply to your home by visiting DSIRE (Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency®).
Utilities: Whether your utility company charges a flat rate for electricity or charges variable rates throughout the day based on electricity production—i.e., higher rates in the afternoon, lower rates at night—solar power offsets the price you are charged for electricity. It becomes even more valuable during those higher-rate periods or during seasonal fluctuations in utilities costs.
Sell Solar Power Back: Homeowners can sell their solar energy back to utilities through “Net-metering” plans. When your power generation rate is greater than your household’s consumption rate, the end result on your electric bill is a net energy consumption. Refer to DSIRE for region-specific regulations and policies.
Home Value: Studies have shown that buyers are willing to pay more for homes with solar panels. The Appraisal Journal, published by the industry-leading appraisers association The Appraisal Institute, found that homes with solar PV systems increased their home value by $20 for every $1 saved on utility bills annually.
Although the right solar solution looks different for each household, what remains true across the board is that solar power creates more sustainable homes while increasing home value. Taking all this information into your solar power plans will help to improve your home’s renewable energy output and reduce your carbon footprint.
Article originally appeared on the Windermere blog, May 1, 2023, by Sandy Dodge.
How’s the Market? Q1 2023 Review of Seattle Area Real Estate
The first quarter of 2023 saw a price correction compared to last year’s spike, with year-over-year median prices down by 9% in Seattle and 14% on the Eastside. That being said, prices are already beginning to climb again with steady growth since the beginning of the year. Buyer demand remains strong despite higher interest rates—competitively priced, well-presented homes are still fetching multiple offers.
Click or scroll down to find your area report:
Seattle | Eastside | Mercer Island | Condos | Waterfront
SEATTLE
For those who purchased a home in Seattle this quarter, it likely felt like there were more options and inventory with a minor rebalance on price. While transactions were down 28% year over year, we also saw median sales price was down from $925,000 to $830,000 since last quarter, which is a 9% adjustment. A down correction in pricing gave relief to buyers feeling the pinch and stress of rising interest rates to 6.5%. Rates have doubled the past 1.5 years but, considering the limited supply of homes for sale, the drop in home prices hasn’t been severe.
Neighborhoods like Lake Forest Park saw growth in their number of transactions (up 15%); other neighborhoods like Madison Park and Capitol Hill had nearly half the homes for sale compared to last year. It’s no surprise that as interest rates rise and affordability changes, buyers are casting a wider net to other parts of Seattle to the north. Keep an eye on neighborhoods like Shoreline, Kenmore and Lake Forest Park. Desirable prices paired with accessible transit is a bonus for those who are being asked to return to the office.
Multiple offers are apparent in some neighborhoods (price & presentation is key!) and we did experience 30% of homes sell above their listing price. If the shortage of inventory remains and interest rates drop slightly, we could see the frequency of multiple offers increase.
Click here for the full report and neighborhood-by-neighborhood statistics!
EASTSIDE
The Eastside was struck by job layoffs in the tech sector, rising interest rates and new property listings (28% more homes than last quarter!) but pending sales remained low compared to the previous year. Transaction volume was much like Seattle’s, with a decline of 22%. Mercer Island was the only community that stayed steady (no increase) in the number of transactions year over year.
Interestingly, while prices are down to a median of $1,400,000 year over year, this is a slight 2% increase from last quarter’s median of $1,380,000. 20% of the properties on the Eastside also sold above their listing price (most of these homes were in Bellevue) while sellers needed a shift in expectations with a whopping 58% of homes needing a price improvement to find their buyer. The list price vs. sold price percentage was 97% which means if you were a seller who listed your home at $1,000,000, you would expect to sell for $970,000 this quarter. Again, price and presentation matter and 41% of sellers who did this well sold in the first 10 days.
Buyers who are shopping for homes on the Eastside continue to be hyper focused on the school districts, turn-key properties and are serious about locking in their interest rate now, with the hopes of refinancing later this year when economists predict rates could decrease. If rates drop below 5.5% coupled with low inventory levels, we could see the frequency of multiple offers increase.
Click here for the full report and neighborhood-by-neighborhood statistics!
MERCER ISLAND
Even though there were just 39 residential transactions on Mercer Island this quarter, that number has stayed perfectly steady year over year. Over half of these homes sold in the first 10 days on the market, which is no surprise as demand has stayed robust.
13% of listings sold above their listing price, but this wasn’t concentrated on a certain community; four homes located on First Hill, Mid-Island plus the South & North Ends respectively, each received multiple offers this quarter. Q1 of 2022 saw a median price of $2,540,000 with just one home listed under $1,500,000. This quarter, the median price is $2,233,000 (a 12% decline) while six homes sold under $1,500,000! Due to the decline in prices and a slower start to the year, many sellers needed a shift in expectations with a whopping 67% of homes needing a price improvement to find their buyer.
We haven’t seen the number of new listings in the double-digit figures since Q2 of 2022, and it’s very possible we won’t experience that same level of inventory this year. Baby boomers are holding onto their homes with the benefit of their remarkably low 2.75% interest rate, and families are staying put to finish out the school year.
Our advice still stands: if you’re thinking about waiting for lower rates AND lower prices, you might be dreaming. Enjoy the fantastic Island inventory now, lock in your rate and consider refinancing later this year or next spring when economists predict rates will shift down.
Click here for the full report and neighborhood-by-neighborhood statistics!
CONDOS – SEATTLE & EASTSIDE
Seeing first time homebuyers come back to the market or considering an investment? Buying a condo in Seattle or on the Eastside is a fantastic opportunity, especially as many companies are calling their employees back to the office at least 3 days per week. It’s very possible transaction volume will be up next quarter, but for now, transactions were down 44% year over year. With that said, 465 units sold in Seattle; 347 units sold on the Eastside which isn’t all doom and gloom.
Just like North Seattle is heating up with residential sales, Lake Forest Park, Shoreline, Ballard and North Seattle condos outpace the rest of Seattle, up 10% on average. These areas are experiencing new construction townhomes that are especially desirable to first time homebuyers. Boutique builders are offering a trendy design palette (have you seen the Scandinavian-style design with light woods and sleek finishes?) paired with all the “bells and whistles” that city dwellers appreciate, like dog washing stations, artificial turf, and EV chargers.
For the Eastside, Redmond condos stayed the steadiest, down just 17% year or year. Kirkland was the only neighborhood to experience a price bump, up 11% to a median price of $693,000.
The Seattle condo median price has declined just 1% year over year to $515,000, while the Eastside experienced a 12% adjustment to $550,000. This is a $530,000 average when comparing both areas. With interest rates doubling the past 1.5 years and buyers considering a condo unit under the umbrella of a condo association, shoppers will be very particular about their monthly dues assessment and what’s included for those monies as both interest rates and dues have such a dominant effect on their overall buying power. Condos continue to be a necessary niche in our marketplace!
Check out area-by-area details the full condo report.
WATERFRONT
There were 17 privately-owned waterfront home sales in the greater Seattle-Eastside region in Q1 2023 (Eastside-7; Seattle-6; Lake Sammamish-2; Mercer Island-2). This is exactly on par with last year, when we also saw 17 sales in Q1 2022.
The highest sale was for a Medina Northwest Contemporary on 115 feet of low-bank waterfront that sold above list price for $20m. The most affordable waterfront was a unique triplex with 1920-1930 era beach cottages on a private boardwalk near the Ballard Locks—a buyer snagged it below list price for $1.9m.
This brief overview of the entire Seattle-Eastside private waterfront market, including Mercer Island and Lake Sammamish, illustrates the trends occurring in our region over time. This data is interesting and insightful but cannot replace an in-depth waterfront analysis with your trusted professional.
© Copyright 2023, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island. Information and statistics derived from Northwest Multiple Listing Service and Trendgraphix, and deemed accurate but not guaranteed. Mercer Island cover photo courtesy of Petra Varney and Clarity Northwest Photography.
7 Ways to Make Life Easier When Selling Your Home
When it’s time to sell a home, we all dream of a flawlessly executed transaction where everything goes smoothly and ends with a win-win for you and the buyer. Here are seven tips to help make that happen—and avoid surprise expenses along the way…
1. Repair Your Home First
Making repairs to your home before you sell not only makes it more appealing to buyers, but it can also help you avoid the additional costs that can result from the buyer’s inspection. Disclosing any repairs that still need to be made will help you move smoothly to closing and avoid problems that could otherwise kill the deal. Consider conducting a pre-listing inspection to make sure everything is out in the open before you sell.
2. Make Sure Your Price is Right
The key to selling your home quickly is to find the right buyers. To find the right buyers, your home must be correctly priced. I use a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)—a thorough, data-backed examination of your home and how it compares to other listings in your area—to accurately price your home. Without an agent’s CMA, it’s easy for your home to be listed at the wrong price.
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- Avoid Overpricing: Overpricing your home will attract the wrong buyers because you will force your home into competition with other listings that are fundamentally superior or have more to offer. When comparing other homes to yours, buyers will focus on the discrepancies and the features your home lacks. Overpricing will often cause homes to sit on the market for extended periods of time and become less appealing to buyers.
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- Avoid Underpricing: Under competitive market conditions, intentionally underpricing a home is a common strategy to attract buyer attention with the goal of starting a bidding war to drive the price of the home up. However, several things must go correctly for this to happen. In all other cases, underpricing your home reflects a lack of knowledge about where its market value fits into the fabric of current local market conditions and can leave you, the seller, unsatisfied with the price your home ultimately fetches.
3. Invest In Staging & Professional Photography
First impressions matter when selling a home. The vast majority of buyers are searching online and taking virtual tours of homes they’re interested in. As such, it’s well worth the time and money to hire a high-quality photographer and I always provide this for my sellers. The right photography can make all the difference in the minds of buyers.
Home staging is also a critical element for getting the most value for a home and selling it quickly. You can even DIY if you have the time and modern decor. It’s also the perfect time to inspect your home for any minor or cosmetic repairs that can be addressed quickly. An aesthetically pleasing home will attract more eyes, and any edge you can give your home over competing listings may be just the ticket to getting it sold.
4. Keep Your Emotions in Check
Selling your home is an act of learning how to let it go. Once you know you’re ready to sell, you’ll need to be able to look at it with an objective eye. This will allow you to approach decisions from a neutral standpoint and work towards what is best for the sale of the home. Having clear judgement will also help you get through the negotiating process and steer yourself toward a smooth closing. Stepping back can be tough, but a good agent will always be happy to give you guidance and help you keep perspective.
5. Wait Until You’re Ready
It may be tempting to rush your listing to take advantage of local market conditions, but waiting until you have all your ducks in a row will make life so much easier. Knowing when to sell your home is a mixture of being financially prepared, having the right agent, and understanding how your home fits into the current local market landscape. Once you’re ready, here are some tips on timing the market.
6. Use an Agent
…and I’m not just saying it because I’m an agent! Selling a home “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) can save on commission fees, but is a complex and risky process that can easily lead to serious costs. An agent will help you front marketing costs, provide sound advice to help you avoid legal trouble, and ultimately shoulder some of the liability for the transaction. Being represented by an experienced professional will help you avoid mistakes during the offer process, negotiations, and closing that could otherwise be costly or jeopardize the sale. It’s no wonder that a vast majority of sellers choose to work with an agent.
7. Be Willing to Negotiate
Approaching buyers’ offers with an open mind will ensure you don’t miss any opportunities. Before the offers start to come in, it’s important to work with your agent to understand your expectations and strategize which terms and contingencies you’re willing to negotiate on. That way, you can quickly identify the right offer when it comes along. Showing a willingness to work with buyers will also keep them engaged and make sure you don’t leave potential deals on the table.
© Copyright 2023 Windermere Mercer Island.
Adapted from articles that originally appeared on the Windermere blog, November 22, 2021 & April 7, 2021, by Sandy Dodge.
Q4 2022 Western Washington Economic & Real Estate Update
The following analysis of select counties of the Western Washington real estate market is provided by Windermere Real Estate Chief Economist Matthew Gardner. I hope that this information may assist you with making better-informed real estate decisions. For further information about the housing market in your area, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Regional Economic Overview
Although the job market in Western Washington continues to grow, the pace has started to slow. The region added over 91,000 new jobs during the past year, but the 12-month growth rate is now below 100,000, a level we have not seen since the start of the post-COVID job recovery. That said, all but three counties have recovered completely from their pandemic job losses and total regional employment is up more than 52,000 jobs. The regional unemployment rate in November was 3.8%, which was marginally above the 3.7% level of a year ago. Many business owners across the country are pondering whether we are likely to enter a recession this year. As a result, it’s very possible that they will start to slow their expansion in anticipation of an economic contraction.
Western Washington Home Sales
❱ In the final quarter of 2022, 12,711 homes sold, representing a drop of 42% from the same period in 2021. Sales were 34.7% lower than in the third quarter of 2022.
❱ Listing activity rose in every market year over year but fell more than 26% compared to the third quarter, which is expected given the time of year.
❱ Home sales fell across the board relative to the fourth quarter of 2021 and the third quarter of 2022.
❱ Pending sales (demand) outpaced listings (supply) by a factor of 1:2. This was down from 1:6 in the third quarter. That ratio has been trending lower for the past year, which suggests that buyers are being more cautious and may be waiting for mortgage rates to drop.
Western Washington Home Prices
❱ Sale prices fell an average of 2% compared to the same period the year prior and were 6.1% lower than in the third quarter of 2022. The average sale price was $702,653.
❱ The median listing price in the fourth quarter of 2022 was 5% lower than in the third quarter. Only Skagit County experienced higher asking prices. Clearly, sellers are starting to be more realistic about the shift in the market.
❱ Even though the region saw aggregate prices fall, prices rose in six counties year over year.
❱ Much will be said about the drop in prices, but I am not overly concerned. Like most of the country, the Western Washington market went through a period of artificially low borrowing costs, which caused home values to soar. But now prices are trending back to more normalized levels, which I believe is a good thing.
Mortgage Rates
Rates rose dramatically in 2022, but I believe that they have now peaked. Mortgage rates are primarily based on the prices and yields of bonds, and while bonds take cues from several places, they are always impacted by inflation and the economy at large. If inflation continues to fall, as I expect it will, rates will continue to drop.
My current forecast is that mortgage rates will trend lower as we move through the year. While this may be good news for home buyers, rates will still be higher than they have become accustomed to. Even as the cost of borrowing falls, home prices in expensive markets such as Western Washington will probably fall a bit more to compensate for rates that will likely hold above 6% until early summer.
Western Washington Days on Market
❱ It took an average of 41 days for homes to sell in the fourth quarter of 2022. This was 17 more days than in the same quarter of 2021, and 16 days more than in the third quarter of 2022.
❱ King County was again the tightest market in Western Washington, with homes taking an average of 31 days to find a buyer.
❱ All counties contained in this report saw the average time on market rise from the same period a year ago.
❱ Year over year, the greatest increase in market time was Snohomish County, where it took an average of 23 more days to find a buyer. Compared to the third quarter of 2022, San Juan County saw average market time rise the most (from 34 to 74 days).
Conclusions
This speedometer reflects the state of the region’s real estate market using housing inventory, price gains, home sales, interest rates, and larger economic factors.
The regional economy is still growing, but it is showing signs of slowing. Although this is not an immediate concern, if employees start to worry about job security, they may decide to wait before making the decision to buy or sell a home. As we move through the spring I believe the market will be fairly soft, but I would caution buyers who think conditions are completely shifting in their direction. Due to the large number of homeowners who have a mortgage at 3% or lower, I simply don’t believe the market will become oversupplied with inventory, which will keep home values from dropping too significantly.
Ultimately, however, the market will benefit buyers more than sellers, at least for the time being. As such, I have moved the needle as close to the balance line as we have seen in a very long time.
About Matthew Gardner
As Chief Economist for Windermere Real Estate, Matthew Gardner is responsible for analyzing and interpreting economic data and its impact on the real estate market on both a local and national level. Matthew has over 30 years of professional experience both in the U.S. and U.K.
In addition to his day-to-day responsibilities, Matthew sits on the Washington State Governors Council of Economic Advisors; chairs the Board of Trustees at the Washington Center for Real Estate Research at the University of Washington; and is an Advisory Board Member at the Runstad Center for Real Estate Studies at the University of Washington where he also lectures in real estate economics.
This article originally appeared on the Windermere blog January 26th, 2023. Written by: Matthew Gardner.
© Copyright 2023, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island.