Uncategorized December 11, 2017

4 Tips for Meeting Your Neighbors & Connecting with the Community in Lake Forest Park

If you’re new to Lake Forest Park or are just looking to try something new, Lake Forest Park offers some wonderful ways to connect with others in the community. From the bustling Commons to private clubs, an opportunity waits around every corner!

Here are 4 tips for meeting your neighbors and connecting with the community in Lake Forest Park:


Third Place Commons

  • Located at 17171 Bothell Way N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155
  • Hours: 7:00am-9:00pm Monday-Thursday; 7:00am-10:00pm Friday-Saturday; 7:00am-8:00pm Sunday

If you want to get involved but don’t know where to begin, check out the Third Place Commons. “Third Place Commons…[is] where you can study, eat, read, play (there’s a small play area for toddlers), or just watch people come and go,” shares Claudette Meyer. “[It’s] a truly wonderful community gathering space!”

Every Sunday (Mother’s Day-mid-October) from 10:00am-3:00pm, they host their Farmers Market, with local vendors selling some of the best food, flowers, and plants around. It’s the perfect way to get acquainted with the talent that makes this city thrive.

If you’re looking for more involvement, the LFP Garden Club meets in the Commons on the 2nd Tuesday of each month from September-May. With knowledgeable speakers from all walks of gardening life, this club is a great way to snag some tips while meeting your friends and neighbors.


Lake Forest Park Civic Club

  • Located at 17301 Beach Dr. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

Providing a family-friendly environment for members and guests, the Lake Forest Park Civic Club is a private waterfront oasis where you can enjoy scenic views and connect with the community as you wish. “The Civic Club is well known with plenty of surrounding homes being deeded in,” says Casey Bui. If you want to experience this club for yourself, submit your membership application today.


Sheridan Beach Community Club

  • Located at 16500 Shore Dr. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

For a little bit of everything, check out the Sheridan Beach Community Club. “ [The] lesser known…Sheridan Beach Club…provides excellent amenities, shore access, a pool and most importantly, a heightened sense of community,” Casey shares. With swimming lessons, a swim team, and so much more, “if you’re looking for it all in LFP, the Beach Club is where you should start.”


Recreation Partnership with the City of Shoreline

Offering extensive recreation options, the partnership between Lake Forest Park and the city of Shoreline gives Lake Forest Park residents discounted access to all-ages classes, workshops, camps, memberships, and enrichment programs. LFP residents receive an 8% discount on program fees and early registration before other non-Shoreline residents. You can get the whole family involved!

Other partnerships: Other partnerships with Lake Forest Park include: Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council, the Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Center, and Hang Time.


Uncategorized December 11, 2017

11 *Stunning* Photos That Show Off Lake Forest Park’s Natural Beauty

Treasured in part for its stunning natural beauty, Lake Forest Park is nestled right along the shores of Lake Washington. Home to parks, trails, and of course the shimmering lake, gorgeous natural scenes are aplenty in this lovely community!

Below, we wanted to show off some of our favorite photos of this special neighborhood from Instagram:


1. Beautiful view of Lake Washington from Lake Forest Park:

2. Lake Forest Park is extra photogenic in the summertime!

3. Autumn perfection at Animal Acres Park:

4. Horizon View Park is one of this community’s many idyllic parks. Click here for our guide to outdoor activities in Lake Forest Park!

5. Another scenic spot at Horizon View Park:

5. One of the many water sports you can take advantage of on Lake Washington:

6. A snapshot of lakeside living in Lake Forest Park:

7. One of the many stunning views:

8. Heading out for a day on the water? Get your cameras ready!

9. Perfect picnic scenery:

10. A gorgeous sunrise over Lake Washington is truly a lovely way to start the day:

11. The mountain is out!


eNewsletter November 30, 2017

December eNewsletter

What Does Median Price Buy You in Each Area?

Most recently, the Seattle Times published an article about Seattle being the hottest real estate market in the country. This phenomenon has been taking place for over a year and experts don’t see this slowing down. According to the Case-Schiller Index, over the last 5 years since the market started to recover from the downturn, there has been an 80% increase in prices! I thought it would be interesting to take a look at the median price in each of our market areas to illustrate the price differentiation and affordability. If you are curious how this increase relates to your home, please contact me. It is my goal to help keep me clients informed and empower strong decisions.
North Snohomish County
Sale Price:  $380,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  3/2
Square Footage:  1,551
Year over Year Appreciation:  13%
South Snohomish County
Sale Price:  $500,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 3/1.75
Square Footage:  1,784
Year over Year Appreciation:  14%
North King County
Sale Price:  $715,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  3/1.75
Square Footage:  1,980
Year over Year Appreciation:  14%
Seattle Metro
Sale Price:  $725,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  3/1.75
Square Footage:  1,780
Year over Year Appreciation:  14%
Eastside
Sale Price:  $855,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  4/2.5
Square Footage:  2,170
Year over Year Appreciation:  14%
South King County
Sale Price:  $400,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  3/3.75
Square Footage:  2,400
Year over Year Appreciation:  13%
Windermere Foundation Quarterly Update

I am excited to share the most recent update from the Windermere Foundation. Thanks to the generosity of Windermere agents and the community, the Windermere Foundation collected over $1,537,000 in donations through the third quarter of 2017. This is an increase of nine percent compared to this time last year! Individual contributions and fundraisers accounted for 62 percent of the donations, while 38 percent came from donations through Windermere agent commissions. So far, we have raised a total of $34,643,324 in donations since 1989.

Each Windermere office has its own Windermere Foundation fund account that they use to make donations to organizations in their communities. Year to date, a total of $1,179,202 has been disbursed to non-profit organizations dedicated to providing services to low-income and homeless families throughout the Western U.S. Check out my office’s specific contributions below!

Through the Windermere Foundation, my office had the privilege to donate $13,360 this year to YMCA Camp Orkila and Colman; sending 40 kids to summer camp that would not have otherwise had the opportunity. This past spring, we also spent a full day helping the Snohomish Garden Club provide thousands of pounds of fresh produce to local food banks, and this holiday season we will be able to provide approximately 24 foster boys a plentiful Christmas morning and give full holiday dinners to families receiving aid from Pioneer Human Services. These are all causes that are close to my heart, and I am so glad to partner with an office that strives to make a difference.If you would like to help give back to your community, you can do so through the Windermere Foundation here.

Happy Holidays!

Lake Forest Park November 13, 2017

Lake Forest Park

Welcome to Lake Forest Park!

For those who love the great outdoors without being too far from premium city amenities, Lake Forest Park  is a dream come true! Nestled along the shores of picturesque Lake Washington and north of Seattle and Bellevue, Lake Forest Park offers the opportunity to truly have it all. Whether you need to commute into the city for work or want to spend a day on the beach, it’s all wonderfully within reach.

As Jill Langer points out, living in Lake Forest Park is “like being in an enchanted forest.” She adds that large lots cater to gardeners, and there’s even an amazing Garden Club you can join. Claudette Meyer shares that “Most homes are on large lots, many along streams or creeks. The many trees that are the city’s namesake provide an immense amount of privacy between neighbors.” Keep exploring our guide to Lake Forest Park to see why people love this city! 


Getting Out & About

One of the coveted perks of owning in certain Lake Forest Park neighborhoods (there are quite a few that qualify) is eligibility for membership in the Lake Forest Park Civic Club. Members play on the shores of Lake Washington, enjoying access to the private beach/swim area and boat launch.”Claudette Meyer

The Civic Club is well known with plenty of surrounding homes being deeded in, but lesser known is the adjacent Sheridan Beach Club which provides excellent amenities, shore access, a pool and most importantly, a heightened sense of community. If you’re looking for it all in LFP, the Beach Club is where you should start.” –Casey Bui

Go for a run, walk or bicycle ride on the Burke-Gilman Trail, along the shore of Lake Washington.”Claudette Meyer

“The Lake Forest Park Farmer’s market on Sundays is awesome.” –Samantha Arango


Commuting From Lake Forest Park

Lake Forest Park residents predominantly rely on car & bus for their commutes to Seattle or the Eastside. However, with convenient access to a 2-mile stretch of the Burke-Gilman Trail that passes through the city, there is a robust population of residents that commute into Seattle by bicycle, and particularly work centers such as the University of Washington & Children’s Hospital.”Claudette Meyer


Homes in Lake Forest Park

“Lake Forest Park was designed as a bedroom community for Seattle, so much of the housing consists of single family homes built between the 1950s and early 1980s. The city is very hilly, so multi-level, split-entry and one-story with basement homes that accommodate the topography are common. The hilly topography also translates into many homes enjoying Cascade Mountain or verdant territorial views, and some with Lake Washington views too.” Claudette Meyer

South Everett November 13, 2017

The 5 Best Things About Living in South Everett

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 Potts 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 Hayter, 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 Bowman 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 Potts’ 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!

South Everett November 13, 2017

The Outdoor Lover’s Guide to South Everett

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 and Brian Hayter’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 Bowman, “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.

South Everett November 13, 2017

Live in South Everett? Here’s What You Need to Know About Commuting

Many people choose to live in South Everett for its central location, affordability, and great commuting options. According to local Heather Potts, 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.

South Everett November 13, 2017

Your Guide to Making the Most of a Day at Silver Lake in South Everett

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 Bowman. “Plenty of shade, playground equipment, and covered pavilions. This non-motorized lake is perfect for kayaking and paddle boarding!”

Janet Buehler 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!

South Everett November 13, 2017

South Everett

Welcome to South Everett!

Described by local Brian Hayter 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 benefitting 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 FlyingHeritage & 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 Buehler

“Don’t forget Emory’s, a great place for dinner, and you can cozy up to the large outdoor fireplace too.”Greg Buehler


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 Potts


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 Potts

“Lots of nice neighborhoods, accessible to everything, affordability.”Brian Hayter

eNewsletterLocal Market AnalysisReal Estate News November 11, 2017

November 2017 eNewsletter

What Does Median Price Buy you in Each Area?
Most recently, the Seattle Times published an article about Seattle being the hottest real estate market in the country. This phenomenon has been taking place for over a year and experts don’t see this slowing down. According to the Case-Schiller Index, over the last 5 years since the market started to recover from the downturn, there has been an 80% increase in prices! I thought it would be interesting to take a look at the median price in each of our market areas to illustrate the price differentiation and affordability. If you are curious how this increase relates to your home, please contact me. It is my goal to help keep my clients informed and empower strong decisions.
North Snohomish County
Sale Price:  $380,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  3/2
Square Footage:  1,551
Year over Year Appreciation:  13%
South Snohomish County
Sale Price:  $500,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 3/1.75
Square Footage:  1,784
Year over Year Appreciation:  14%
North King County
Sale Price:  $715,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  3/1.75
Square Footage:  1,980
Year over Year Appreciation:  14%
Seattle Metro
Sale Price:  $725,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  3/1.75
Square Footage:  1,780
Year over Year Appreciation:  14%
Eastside
Sale Price:  $855,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  4/2.5
Square Footage:  2,170
Year over Year Appreciation:  14%
South King County
Sale Price:  $400,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms:  3/3.75
Square Footage:  2,400
Year over Year Appreciation:  13%
Windermere Foundation Quarterly Update

I am excited to share the most recent update from the Windermere Foundation. Thanks to the generosity of Windermere agents and the community, the Windermere Foundation collected over $1,537,000 in donations through the third quarter of 2017. This is an increase of nine percent compared to this time last year! Individual contributions and fundraisers accounted for 62 percent of the donations, while 38 percent came from donations through Windermere agent commissions. So far, we have raised a total of $34,643,324 in donations since 1989.

Each Windermere office has its own Windermere Foundation fund account that they use to make donations to organizations in their communities. Year to date, a total of $1,179,202 has been disbursed to non-profit organizations dedicated to providing services to low-income and homeless families throughout the Western U.S. Check out my office’s specific contributions below!

Through the Windermere Foundation, my office had the privilege to donate $13,360 this year to YMCA Camp Orkila and Colman; sending 40 kids to summer camp that would not have otherwise had the opportunity. This past spring, we also spent a full day helping the Snohomish Garden Club provide thousands of pounds of fresh produce to local food banks, and this holiday season we will be able to provide approximately 24 foster boys a plentiful Christmas morning and give full holiday dinners to families receiving aid from Pioneer Human Services. These are all causes that are close to my heart, and I am so glad to partner with an office that strives to make a difference.

If you would like to help give back to your community, you can do so through the Windermere Foundation here.

Happy Holidays!

Do you want to be “In the Know” in your neighborhood? Sign up for a monthly overview of what’s happening in the zip code(s) of your choice. Neighborhood News is a great tool to stay informed about the home values and activity in your own backyard or to study a new market you may be interested in. Click here to sign up on my website.
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