Real Estate News & Information • May 15, 2025

Local Market Update – May 2025

by Don Koonce

Our local real estate market is seeing sellers flood the landscape with listings, but buyers aren’t diving in. Despite double-digit increases in active listings across the board, sales declined in all four regions—possibly signaling buyer caution amid ongoing national economic uncertainty. This complete 180 in supply and demand compared to last year’s intensely competitive market is already impacting price growth—but by how much, and for how long, remain key questions in the months ahead.

King County home prices rose 5% year over year, bringing the median to $1,030,000 in April. Active listings surged 70%, significantly boosting inventory. Buyer activity, however, slowed: pending sales dropped 9% and closed sales fell 2%. Still, 67% of homes sold at or above list price, showing that well-priced listings continue to attract competition. King County condo prices held steady at a median of $579,950, while active condo listings rose 74%.

Seattle homebuyers remained competitive last month, with 65% of residential sales closing at or above list price—even as active listings climbed 47% from a year prior. However, pending sales fell 7%, suggesting increased caution from buyers. The median sold price for single-family homes reached $1,025,000, up 3% from 2024. Seattle condo prices were flat at $598,000, while active condo listings also rose 47%.

The median sold price for Eastside homes edged up 1% compared to last April, to $1,697,500. Even with a staggering 125% increase in active listings, demand remained strong: 92% of homes sold within 30 days, and nearly 75% closed at or above asking price. Still, pending sales dropped 15% and closed sales dipped 3%. Eastside condo prices rose 4% to a median of $754,500, while active condo listings skyrocketed by 165%.

In Snohomish County, April’s median residential sold price held steady at $799,950, virtually unchanged from last year. The share of homes selling at or above listing price fell to 65%, down from 76% last year – likely a response to the 79% jump in active listings. As inventory rose and prices plateaued, 84% of homes sold within 30 days, but the county saw a 4% drop in pending sales compared to 2024. In the condo market, the median price declined 2% and active listings soared 113%.

As we move deeper into the traditionally busy real estate season, the disconnect between supply and demand will be a key trend to watch. Buyers may remain hesitant until broader economic signals stabilize, while motivated sellers continue to drive up inventory. Whether prices hold, soften, or climb will likely depend on which side makes the next move. In a market this fluid, having a trusted real estate expert on your side makes all the difference. For guidance tailored to your goals this season, connect with your Windermere advisor today.

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Sellers • May 13, 2025

A Step-by-Step Guide to a Smooth and Successful Sale

by Don Koonce

Navigating everything involved with selling your home can seem intimidating. Breaking the process down step by step will keep you organized and ready to work with your agent toward a successful home sale.

1. Choose an Agent

A lot goes into choosing the right agent. If you’re unsure where to start, get referrals from trusted friends, family, and neighbors. Although the ultimate goal is the sale, think about your compatibility outside of the transaction. Their ability to connect with you on a human level through the ups and downs of a home sale is just as important as their expertise and knowledge of the market.

Pro tip: Look for someone who communicates the way you do—whether that’s testing, emailing, or good old-fashioned phone calls. Feeling heard and understood can make all the difference in building trust and making the process more enjoyable.

2. Set a Timeline

Depending on your local housing market conditions, your timeline for selling your home may vary. However, a timeline is valuable in that it will keep you organized throughout the selling process and allows you to adjust if circumstances change. Your agent will work with you to build the ideal timeline, one that reflects your personal goals, the local marketplace, and any milestones you may be working around. Having a clear plan reduces stress and ensures everyone is on the same page.

3. What is Your Home Worth?

The key to selling quickly is correctly pricing your home from the first day it hits the market. In particular, overpricing can lead to serious complications in the selling process. Your agent can provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to better determine the best price of your home. CMAs provide information on comparable home sales in your area, both pending and sold, within the past six months.

While an agent will always have the best information, you can also explore your home’s potential value with our real-time automated value estimate tool before connecting with your agent. Our seller page features home values and market information about what buyers are looking for in your area.

4. Repair & Upgrade

Now it’s time to get to work on the house! This is the perfect time to tackle any and all outstanding projects or repairs. Create a list separating which repairs can be done yourself and which need professional attention. This is also a great opportunity to consider a pre-sale home inspection to identify structural and mechanical issues or outdated features that could benefit from attention. Even small updates can go a long way—especially those that boost energy efficiency or add smart home appeal.

5. Make the Best First Impression

Creating a strong first impression can have a lasting impact on buyers, so roll up your sleeves and prepare to check off that to-do-list. Start by cleaning up the garden and lawn, clearing out gutters, and adding color to your flower beds. Apply a fresh coat of paint anywhere you spot peeling or cracked paint. A great way to make an impact is by staging your home, with the goal of making each room feel as spacious and welcoming as possible. Professional photography and even a little social media buzz can make your home stand out from the start.

6. Show Your Home

Discuss virtual home tour options with your agent and other ways to generate maximum buyer interest. Consider 3D tours, virtual staging, or even drone footage if your property has outdoor highlights. These features can help your home stand out online and attract more attention, especially as many buyers now begin their home search digitally. For in-person showings, it’s best that you leave the premises so the buyer can freely ask their agent questions and visualize the home as their own.

7. Offers & Negotiation

If you are in a seller’s market—defined by low inventory and high buyer competition—it is likely that you will receive offers at – or above – asking price. You can respond to an offer by a) accepting the offer, b) making a counteroffer, or c) rejecting the offer. Counteroffers should always be made in writing and provide a short window of time for the potential buyer to respond. If you are selling in a buyer’s market, you may have to be more open to negotiation. Discuss negotiation strategies with your agent to work toward a satisfying final price.

8. Prepare for Closing Costs

There are costs throughout the selling process, and as the close date approaches, that remains true. Be sure to budget for your real estate agent’s commission, and other common seller’s costs like title insurance, recording fees, and government transfer tax, among others.

9. Home Inspection

Buyer offers are usually contingent upon a professional home inspection. Ask your agent for a home inspection checklist, so you know what the inspector is looking for ahead of time. They typically inspect the home’s foundation, structure, roof, plumbing and electrical systems, floors, windows, doors, and more for signs of damage and weathering. Some buyers now opt for additional specialized inspections—like sewer scopes or radon testing—so it’s helpful to be prepared in advance for what might come up.

10. Closing Time

Congratulations! Your home is sold, but there are still some final steps before the deal is done. This is the time to ask the buyer to release any contingencies, sign the title, and close escrow before handing over the keys. Consult your real estate agent for any questions about legal documentation and settlement costs.

Whether you’re just starting to think about selling or ready to take on the next step, a Windermere agent is here to guide you. Click the button below to connect today.

Sellers • May 8, 2025

Selling Your Home: 5 Common Myths

by Don Koonce

Selling your home is a crash course in real estate education. You’ll learn how to work with your real estate agent to find a buyer and sell at the right price. As you prepare to sell, it’s important to remember that that not everything you’ve heard is true. There are several common myths that can lead to costly mistakes in the selling process. Knowing the truth behind them will clarify your selling journey and help you align your expectations.

Selling Your Home: 5 Common Myths

1. Home Value Calculators Are 100% Accurate

Online Automated Valuation Models (AVMs) are a great starting point for understanding how much your home could be worth. However, they are merely a first step in determining home value; to say they are 100% accurate is a myth. When it comes to pricing your home, you need to rely on your real estate agent’s Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), which uses vast amounts of historical and current data on real estate listings to arrive at an accurate and competitive figure.

To get an estimate of how much your home is worth, try our Home Worth Calculator here:

2. Selling FSBO Will Save You Money

Selling a home requires an intimate knowledge of the housing industry and how to solve the complex situations that arise throughout a real estate transaction. Despite this, some sellers will go it alone and attempt to sell their property without being represented by an agent.

Selling For Sale by Owner (FSBO) is a risky proposition. It requires the seller to bear added liability, fills their schedule with various marketing and promotional responsibilities, and can leave money on the table by inaccurately pricing the property, causing it to sit on the market for too long. The potential costs of selling a home on your own far outweigh the commission real estate agents earn on a home sale.

3. You Must Remodel to Sell Your Home

The question you’ll face when preparing to sell your home is whether to sell as is or remodel. The answer usually lies somewhere in between, but it depends on your situation and what kinds of home upgrades are driving buyer interest locally. When making improvements to your home, lean toward high ROI remodeling projects to get the best bang for your buck, and avoid trendy projects that can delay listing your home. If you’re considering major upscale renovations, talk to your agent about which projects buyers in your area are looking for.

A Caucasian heterosexual couple are discussing a home remodeling project with a Latin American contractor as they prepare to sell their home. They look over paperwork on a wooden dining room table.

Image Source: Getty Images – Image Credit: andresr

4. Never Accept the First Offer

You’ve likely heard tell that the first buyer’s offer is nothing more than a springboard to up your asking price and to never accept it. In this case, “never” should be approached with caution. In reality, the best offer for your home is one that you and your agent have discussed that aligns with your goals. If a matching offer happens to be the first one that comes your way, so be it. The market can shift at any time, so you never know what may happen if you leave an offer on the table. And if the buyer backs out of the deal, you and your agent will find a path forward.

Common Real Estate Contingencies

5. Home Staging Doesn’t Make a Big Difference

Staging your home is so much more than a cosmetic touchup; it has been proven to help sell homes faster and at a higher price than non-staged homes.¹Staging ensures that your home has universal appeal, which attracts the widest possible pool of potential buyers. When buyers are able to easily imagine living in your home, they become more connected to the property. You should stage your home regardless of your local market conditions, but it can be especially helpful in competitive markets with limited inventory where even the slightest edge can make all the difference for sellers.

Now that you know some of the most common myths in the selling process, get to know its truths. Connect with a local Windermere agent to get the process started:

1: National Association of REALTORS® – Why Home Staging Inspires the Best Prices in Any Housing Market

Featured Image Source: Getty Images – Image Credit: Renata Angerami

Buyers • May 6, 2025

Turnkey vs. Fixer-Upper: Pros and Cons

by Don Koonce

The beauty of real estate is that different properties satisfy different needs. Although single-family homes are great for putting down roots, that may not be your motivation for purchasing your next home. If you’re looking to buy a property with the intent of renting it, both turnkey and fixer-upper listings will cross your path during your home search. The main difference between the two is the condition of the property when you buy it. The right one for you depends on your needs as a homeowner and your goals as a landlord.

What is a turnkey property?

Turnkey properties are move-in ready from day one, which means they’re ready for you to rent them out immediately. Whether it’s a new construction home or a recently remodeled listing, these properties are in tip-top shape when they hit the market. Companies that specialize in renovating and selling these properties may also offer property management services, which may appeal to you if you’re looking for a more hands-off approach to managing your investment property.

What does fixer-upper mean in real estate?

Compared to turnkey listings, fixer-uppers are on the opposite end of the investment property spectrum. Buying a fixer-upper means you’re purchasing a home that needs repairs, remodeling, and some major TLC before it’s ready to rent out. These properties are diamonds in the rough; you’re betting on your ability to make high ROI home upgrades that will attract future renters and put money in your pocket.

As an example of turnkey vs. fixer-upper homes, a heterosexual Caucasian couple are remodeling their fixer-upper property. They are re-painting the interior to prepare the property for renters.

Image Source: Getty Images – Image Credit: StefaNikolic

Turnkey vs. Fixer-Upper: Pros and Cons

Turnkey Pros

Because they are move-in ready, turnkey listings have the potential to generate cash flow right away. Without any pending renovations in your way, you can open up the property to renters as soon as you take possession. They’re primed and ready to place in the hands of a property management company, which means you’ll get passive income without having to deal with day-to-day operational tasks. You can also ask the listing agent for permission to use their photos, which can help your rental stand out amongst the competition in your area.

Turnkey Cons

So, what’s the catch? These benefits all come at a cost; turnkey properties typically cost more than fixer-uppers. You’ll pay a premium for the pristine condition and the buttoned-up appearance of these properties, so it’s important to have a strategy to save money for your home purchase. Also, handing off property management duties to a third party means you’ll have less control over the renting process. For more information on whether hiring a property management company is right for you, read the following blog post:

Managing Your Investment Property: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

Fixer-Upper Pros

Searching for homes in less-than-pristine condition can give you a leg up as a buyer. Fixer-upper homes tend to have less competition from buyers than turnkey properties, since not everyone is willing to take on a major remodeling project. Talk to your agent about how to make the best offer. Given their lessened condition, you can oftentimes get a great deal on these homes with the right strategy. And the best part is, your remodeling efforts will increase the home’s value over time. The more effort you put in, the more the property will be worth, which means higher ROI potential.

Fixer-Upper Cons

Here’s the downside with fixer-uppers: tapping into their potential requires pouring money into the property. Exactly how much you can expect to spend on a fixer-upper varies by location, the size of the home, and the scope of repairs and renovations needed. Tackling some remodeling projects DIY can save you money, but if certain projects require more skilled hands, it may be best to hire a professional. And for all your planning, it’s impossible to predict the future. Projects may go over budget, material costs may rise, and the market may look completely different when you’re ready to rent out your property than it did when you bought it. For more information on buying a fixer-upper and the special financing options available to you, read the following blog post:

Buying a Fixer-Upper

Your real estate agent is your greatest asset in helping you determine which property type is right for you. Connect with a local Windermere agent to see which turnkey and fixer-upper properties are available in your area:

Featured Image Source: Getty Images – Image Credit: hikesterson

Luxury • May 1, 2025

The Benefits of Shared Second Home Ownership

by Don Koonce

The idea of owning a second home is a dream for many—but the reality often comes with high costs, logistical hurdles, and much more upkeep than expected. And as home prices continue to climb and travel habits shift, buyers are starting to ask: is there a better way?

In partnership with Windermere, Esterre offers a fresh new answer to that question with an innovative shared second home ownership model, allowing buyers to co-own a thoughtfully curated portfolio of vacation homes—without taking on the full-time costs, upkeep, or responsibilities of owning a second home on their own.

Understanding A Shared Ownership Model

Shared, or fractional, ownership is quickly emerging as a practical and flexible alternative to second homeownership—one that makes vacation homes more attainable without the stress of going it alone. It’s a concept that’s been around for years, but today’s models offer a more refined, accessible experience. So, what does shared ownership really mean, and how does it work?

Shared ownership allows multiple buyers to co-own a home, splitting both the costs and the responsibilities. Each owner typically holds a defined share of the property, with usage and expectations outlined in a clear agreement. While different models exist, many shared ownership opportunities offer real estate equity, meaning owners can benefit from long-term use as well as a potential share in the home’s value over time. When applied to vacation homes, shared ownership presents a more accessible way to enjoy meaningful time away—without the full-time costs or commitment of owning a second property outright.

Below are some key benefits of shared ownership.

Benefits of Shared Ownership

Lower upfront cost compared to buying a whole property.
Shared responsibility for maintenance and property management.
More efficient use of the home throughout the year. Greater flexibility in travel and vacation options.
Real equity, with the potential for long-term financial return.
Accessible entry point into luxury vacation real estate.

How Esterre is Reimagining Shared Ownership

Esterre is bringing a fresh take to the shared ownership space. Unlike traditional timeshares or fractional ownership models, Esterre offers co-ownership in a curated portfolio of fully managed, high-end vacation homes across Washington State. Each property is thoughtfully chosen for its location, design, and year-round appeal. Rather than being tied to a single home, owners hold real equity in the entire portfolio and benefit from a growing collection of properties as new homes are added. With access to over a month of stays annually at any home in the portfolio, owners can enjoy variety and flexibility without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Esterre also simplifies the process from start to finish. Maintenance, furnishing, landscaping, and cleaning are all handled on your behalf so you can focus on enjoying your time away. A standout feature of Esterre’s model is its built-in 12-year exit strategy. When the time comes, the homes are sold, and the proceeds are divided among the owners, with 20% of the appreciated value going to Esterre. It’s a modern approach to second homeownership—designed to offer ease, flexibility, and a clear path forward.

Discover more at esterre-wa.com.

SOLD • April 29, 2025

SOLD: Three Seattle Homes

by Don Koonce

BUYERS UNDER CONTRACT

8839 17th Avenue SW
Seattle, WA 98106
$1,178,000

Beds: 4
Baths: 3
Size: 3,550 sqft
Year Built: 1928
Lot Size Area: 6,671.00 sqft
Garage Spaces: Yes
Heating: High Efficiency, Forced Air

If you are looking for space, this is THE one. With over 3500 sq ft of living space & an additional 1200 sq ft garage, this house has it all. The main house has 4 BR, including a massive master suite w/ walk-in closet & 3/4 bath. Oversized living & dining lead into a gorgeous kitchen w/ ample cabinets & counter space. An additional MIL w/ full kitchen, bath & BR offer income potential. Fully fenced, spacious lot on a quiet street close to parks, shopping & less than 8 miles from DT Seattle.

Click here for more.

SELLERS UNDER CONTRACT

7850 S 134th Street
Seattle, WA 98178
$765,000

MLS #2351649
CLIP #9335452984
Beds: 4
Baths: 3
Size: 1,980 sqft

Pin-tight 1960’s daylite rambler in a stunning setting of 1/2acre natural woodlands with Mt. Rainier/Cascade views. Built-to-last construction is a showcase of pride of ownership: Pretty hardwds & period built-ins, big picture windows, glass doors oriented for views and light, quality kitch w/ new cabinets, quartz & luxury vinyl, expansive view deck for seamless outdoor living (350sqft-wow), 3beds/1.5baths main floor, great storage! Finished walk-out Lower Level w/fam rm, 2nd frplc, 4th bdrm/office & bath. Garage, carport, shop, tons of guest parking. Unbelievable privacy and personal space just min. to I-5/405/167/ SeaTac Airport; shopping & urban necessities 1-3mi radius. Your very own “treehouse” in a peaceful sanctuary. It’s playtime.

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3001 E Harrison Street #B
Seattle, WA 98112
$879,000

MLS #2354666
CLIP #6695879642
Beds: 1
Baths: 2

Exciting offering! One-of-a-kind custom urban cabin with private garden lot in prized Madison Valley neighbrhd. Expertly designed by Seattle’s award-winning Bruce Parker/Microhouse Architects with lofted rooms, creative use of natural materials, exposed beams, strategic alignment of windows, and clever storage solutions for maximum light, style, & efficiency. Superb finishes & systems thru-out, dream kitch outfitted w/ professional-quality DCS range, hi-end wood cabinetry, pretty quartz counters & island, ASKO w/d. Open staircase leads to primary bedrm, bath w/ heated floors, office, view balcony in the trees. Mudroom for bikes & boots, storage shed, private yard, off-st parking, enduring siding, life-time roof. They thought of everything.

Click here for more.

Real Estate Listings • April 24, 2025

NEW LISTING: Custom-Built Garden Cottage in Popular Tangletown

by Don Koonce

5623 Kirkwood Place N #1
Seattle, WA 98103
$820,000

MLS #2358368
CLIP #7444195008
Beds: 1
Baths: 1
Type: Condominium
Year Built: 2014
Lot Size Area: 592.00 sqft
Heating: Radiant
Cooling: None
HOA Fee: $21 Monthly

Custom built garden cottage in popular Tangletown! Personality plus created by Seattle’s award-winning Microhouse Architects, a showcase of hand-selected Northwest finishes and ultra-efficient interiors. Tongue & groove vaulted ceilings, open beams, concrete & wood floors, floating stairs, open railings, big windows & skylights all work together for lite & airy living on every level. Posh designer kitchen open to living/dining & outdoor patios for easy entertaining, large home office/guest bedroom. No-wasted-space, clever storage tucked everywhere + attached casita for bikes, outdoor gear, & hobbies. Hi-end appliances, radiant floor heat, lo utility & lo maintenance costs. Walk to all Greenlake’s favorites for fun & recreation, perfect lock & go living!

Click here for more details.

Real Estate News & Information • April 22, 2025

Local Market Update – April 2025

by Don Koonce

Tulips are blooming, the days are growing longer, and the housing market is showing clear signs of seasonal momentum. Inventory continued its steady rise in March, with all four markets posting double-digit year-over-year gains in new listings. Condo inventory saw especially sharp increases — a continuing trend partly driven by the growing appeal of non-traditional “condo” alternatives like townhomes, ADUs, and backyard cottages. Whether these inventory gains will ease affordability remains to be seen as interest rates, trade dynamics, and broader economic forces continue to shape the path ahead.

In March, King County’s median residential sold price rose 3% year over year, increasing from $945,500 to $977,500. Active residential listings jumped 50%, giving buyers a wider range of options. However, closed residential sales only grew by 3%, potentially reflecting ongoing economic uncertainties in the market. In the condo segment, the median sold price increased 9% from $540,000 to $590,000, while active listings surged 77% — signaling a notable shift in supply and buyer opportunity.

Seattle’s median residential sold price reached $1 million in March — an 8% increase from $925,000 in March of last year. Despite the rise in prices, market activity accelerated: pending sales were up 12% compared to a year prior, while active listings climbed 31%. Seattle’s condo market also gained momentum, with the median sold price increasing 7% to $627,650, up from $587,500. Active condo listings grew 55%, helping supply the high demand for more affordable options.

On the Eastside, the median residential sold price in March rose just 2% year over year – from $1,682,500 to $1,710,000 – a modest gain by Eastside standards. After months of steady price appreciation, affordability may be emerging as a limiting factor, with closed sales down 8% compared to March of last year. Inventory, however, continues to rise: active listings were up 86%, giving buyers more choices and potentially more negotiating power. Meanwhile, the Eastside condo market remained a standout — the median sold price rose 16% annually, and active listings were up 119%, perhaps giving buyers some relief in segment that has grown increasingly competitive.

In Snohomish County, the median residential sold price rose 4% in March compared to last year, from $760,000 to $790,000. Active residential listings surged 79% year over year, offering buyers more selection in a market that is increasingly popular for its relative affordability. Closed and pending residential sales inched upwards, growing 4% and 1%, respectively. In the condo market, the median sold price rose 3%, from $515,000 to $529,994, while active listings more than doubled, jumping 104%. This influx of inventory provides welcome opportunities for first-time buyers and downsizers alike.

As the region moves deeper into spring, all eyes are on how rising inventory and renewed buyer interest will influence competition and pricing. While more listings bring opportunity, the pace of the market remains brisk — and navigating it with confidence takes up-to-the-minute insights. For expert guidance tailored to your goals, connect with your Windermere agent today.

Click here to read more.

Buyers • April 17, 2025

When is the Best Time to Buy a House?

by Don Koonce

There’s a factor of the home buying process that can often be the catalyst for everything that follows. That factor is timing. Much of the dialogue—rightfully so—around buying a home is focused on the “what.” However, it’s often the case that the “when” is just as important.

So, when is the best time to buy a house? The answer is simple: the best time to buy is the right time for you. Fortunately, knowing when the time is right isn’t some sixth sense; it’s much more concrete. It’s a matter of understanding local market conditions, your financial situation, the status of mortgage rates, and how those factors fit in with your lifestyle changes and your motive for moving.

When is the Best Time to Buy a House?

With so much subjectivity in the decision-making process, it can be helpful to look at cold, hard facts to determine whether it’s the right time to buy. Although every real estate transaction is different, your local market conditions will give you a good sense of how to approach the housing market. There are two basic categories: a buyer’s market and a seller’s market. In short, the characteristics of a buyer’s market—high inventory, fewer buyers, lower competition—favors buyers, and the characteristics of a seller’s market—low inventory, many buyers, high competition—favors sellers. You may be in a position where you’re able to wait for favorable buying conditions, or you may be thrust into a highly competitive market due to external factors pushing the agenda of your move, such as a career change or starting a family. Regardless of the market conditions you face as a buyer, work with a buyer’s agent is critical to efficiently navigate your local housing market and prepare a winning offer when the time comes.

Which homes can you afford?

Your financial situation also looms large when deciding whether it’s the right time to buy a house. Before you start looking for homes, assess your buying power. Having greater buying power will show the seller that you’re fully capable of purchasing the home and may vault your offer over others.

To get an idea of what you can afford, use our free Home Monthly Payment Calculator by clicking the button below. With current rates based on national averages and customizable mortgage terms, you can experiment with different values to get an estimate of your monthly payment for any listing price. Using the Home Monthly Payment Calculator, you can make a well-informed estimation of whether it’s the right time to buy.

The Home Buying Process

Moving often goes hand in hand with lifestyle changes. As you’re preparing to buy a house, you may be juggling an employment change, the birth of a child, or any combination of other life-altering events. Buying a home takes time, and although an agent will streamline the buying process, it will inevitably impact your day-to-day schedule. Here’s a quick glance at the steps in the home-buying process.

Find the right agent
Get pre-approved for a mortgage
Search for homes
Attend open houses and showings
Make an offer and negotiate
Put down earnest money
Appraisal/Inspection
Closing process
Move into your new home

For helpful resources on the home buying process from start to finish, visit our website:

Buyer Basics – Your Guide to Buying a Home

Seasonality

You’ve undoubtedly heard the age-old real estate maxims about buying in different seasons and how to use the calendar to your advantage to score a good deal on your next home. There’s an element of truth to these sayings, but the best way to grasp the effects of seasonality in your area is to work with an experienced local real estate agent. Their expertise and access to data and tools will be your ultimate resource in tailoring your buying strategy to your local housing market. Connect with an experienced Windermere agent to begin your home-buying journey:

Architecture • Design • April 15, 2025

The Art of Pacific Lodge Architecture

by Don Koonce

The Pacific Northwest is known for its lush forests, rugged coastline, and stunning mountain ranges. Naturally, architects and designers in the region draw from this unique environment, combining indigenous design principles with earlier frontier styles to create what we now know as Pacific Lodge architecture.

From its defining features to its deep regional roots, here’s everything you need to know about the Pacific Lodge home style and how it embodies the spirit of the PNW.

What is Pacific Lodge Architecture?

Drawing inspiration from mountain lodges, traditional log cabins, and the naturally sourced materials abundant in the region, Pacific Lodge architecture reflects a sense of warmth and connection to the land. Reclaimed wood, exposed beams, and stone are often emphasized to create spaces that feel both grounded and inviting, while expansive windows that frame the surrounding landscape allow natural light to pour in, blurring the boundary between indoors and out. The combination of rugged materials and thoughtful design results in homes that are both cozy and grand, seamlessly blending comfort, craftsmanship, natural beauty, and enduring charm.

Key Features of Pacific Lodge Homes

Exposed Wood Construction

Exposed wood construction is one of the defining elements of the Pacific Lodge home style. Signature woods found in the area, like Cedar, Douglas fir, and Western Larch, are commonly used to generate openness and enhance the home’s natural aesthetic. Vaulted ceilings, soaring trusses, and large-scale exposed beams showcase these wooden elements, giving the home an inviting yet dramatic feel. These features celebrate the region’s timber-rich heritage and foster harmony between the home and its surrounding environment.

Expansive Living Spaces

Complementing the warmth and openness created by exposed wood, expansive living spaces are another essential feature of Pacific Lodge architecture. Open floor plans, high ceilings, and grand rooms characterize the Pacific Lodge home, along with common areas that are thoughtfully designed to flow seamlessly into each other, creating inviting spaces ideal for gathering. The broad nature of these rooms highlights natural light, further enhancing the warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Large Windows

Pacific Lodge architecture prominently features large windows, such as picture windows and floor-to-ceiling glass, making the living spaces feel even more expansive and connected to the outdoors. Given the region’s frequent rain and cloudy skies, maximizing light is especially valuable, and oversized windows help to enhance brightness throughout the home. These large windows not only frame beautiful exterior views but also blend indoor and outdoor spaces.

Warm & Inviting Interiors

The warm and inviting interiors complement Pacific Lodge homes’ distinctive charm by bringing all these elements together. Inside, you’ll find a thoughtful blend of cozy furnishings, earthy tones, and richly textured materials. Sizeable stone fireplaces, leather seating, and more wood finishes provide a comfortable backdrop, while natural textiles like wool throws, woven rugs, and iron accents reinforce the home’s rustic yet elegant appeal. Deep forest greens, rich burgundies, and warm amber hues are often incorporated to add depth and complement the home’s natural feel.