Seattle is famous for iconic, scenic spots that offer residents and visitors alike the opportunity for fun in the sun (or rain) amid some quintessential PNW sights. From the striking Space Needle to recognizable parks that have been featured in films, like Gas Works, to the bustling wharf, there are plenty of famous spots around the city that bring in big crowds daily. These spots are all must-sees for anyone exploring the city for the first time, but for Seattle residents who have had their fill of the fun tourist destinations in their neighborhood, it’s nice to venture out and discover some lesser-known places to spend an afternoon relaxing or recreating. Read on for some insight into ways to avoid a crowd as the days warm up and more and more people are out and about in our beautiful city.
Summer Kitchen Inspo for Your PNW Home
Today’s homeowner doesn’t need a summer kitchen like the homeowners of the 18th and 19th centuries did, but the concept can still serve up plenty of design inspiration, particularly as we move into warmer months. Summer kitchens were outdoor buildings, separate from the main house, that helped conceal the smells of cooking and heat generated by wood-burning stoves from the home’s residents. Originally considered a luxury, as it meant having a home with two separate kitchens, they gained popularity and became more accessible to more people as time went on before eventually falling out of favor.
A condominium is an incredible real estate asset. Whether someone is purchasing one as their forever home, an investment opportunity, or a chance to downsize, condos present certain benefits that single-family houses do not offer. Additionally, condos are a great opportunity for first-time buyers to transition from renting to owning property, oftentimes creating offering more affordability than buying a house. It’s important to do ample research before beginning the search, particularly because as a first-time buyer you won’t likely have much practical experience in the real estate market. Here are the top things to consider before making an exciting purchase.
Whidbey Island is a place so idyllic, it almost seems magical. The largest of the Island County islands, residents and visitors are treated to an abundance of natural beauty, small-town charm, and an endless list of outdoor activities to partake in. It’s certainly a popular tourist destination, but actually living on the island offers a type of lifestyle that is the stuff of daydreams.
Whidbey provides both the sense of peaceful seclusion and accessibility to all of the big-city amenities that await in Seattle just a drive and short ferry ride away. Here are a few reasons why so many residents are proud to call the place home.
Deciding to start seriously saving for a home is incredibly exciting, but for first-time homebuyers, you’re probably wondering just how much you need to save. In the past, most buyers stuck with the rule that you should have at least 20 percent of the total price saved for the down payment. However, the median down payment is actually only 14 percent, and first-time buyers can even get away with putting down much less than that. Of course, the higher the price range of homes you’re looking at, the more money you’re going to have to save. You may find that looking for homes in a lower price range will allow you to own sooner than if you were trying to save for a more expensive property.
Seattle is a diverse, vibrant city with so much to offer in terms of culture, dining, shopping, and community. Each neighborhood has its own unique identity with a different vibe and offerings, so where you decide to put roots down in the city is going to play a huge part in how your day-to-day life looks. For families with children, you’re not only choosing the best area for your own needs but also the needs of your kids, so read on for a breakdown of Seattle’s best neighborhoods to buy a home in if you have children.
Lake swims, sunset cruises, and sunny hikes make summertime special, but we’re officially entering skiing and snowboarding season here in the PNW, and I for one can’t wait to get some time on the mountain in. We’re incredibly lucky to be so close to some amazing resorts, offering a diverse mix of slopes, amenities, and opportunities for folks of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner having fun on the bunny slopes or a seasoned pro ready to spend all winter on the hill, there’s plenty of snowy fun to be had right in our own beautiful backyard. Read on for a local business shoutout and a quick breakdown of some of the best local mountains.
Whidbey Island holds a truly special place in my heart as the place where I grew up and the home to my vacation cabin. This idyllic island boasts picturesque farmland, beautiful beaches, and diverse terrain. It’s a nature-lover’s paradise and even if you don’t make it your permanent home, it certainly deserves a day-trip visit. Whether you’re craving fresh air and outdoor exploration, or you want to stroll the streets of Oak Harbor and shop local boutiques, you can’t go wrong with any type of itinerary. Check out some of my top picks for sights to see and things to do on the island.
Seattle is home to some amazing collective opportunities that enrich our lives in ways we may not know. If you are living in Seattle you may already have insight to these wonderful gardens in your neighborhood. If you are new to the area now is your opportunity to score a listing and participate in the P-Patch Community Gardening program and become a member of a growing community of gardeners around the city who enjoy organic urban agriculture in open areas that are maintained by the community.
