Design • August 27, 2026

Victorian Interior Design: How to Bring the Style Home

by Don Koonce

Victorian interior design is known for richness, detail, and a sense that nearly every element of a room deserves attention. Ornate woodwork, patterned wallpaper, saturated colors, layered textiles, and collected objects all have a place within the style. Yet incorporating Victorian design into a home today doesn’t have to mean recreating a nineteenth-century parlor. With a thoughtful approach, its signature details can add warmth, character, and sophistication to both historic and contemporary spaces.

What Is Victorian Interior Design?

Victorian design takes its name from the reign of Queen Victoria in nineteenth-century Britain. Rather than describing one distinct aesthetic, the term encompasses a range of styles and influences that became popular during the era.

As manufacturing expanded and decorative goods became increasingly accessible, interiors offered homeowners more opportunities to express their interests and personal tastes. Rooms were often richly furnished, with decorative objects, artwork, textiles, and furniture occupying nearly every available surface. Formal entertaining spaces, including parlors and dining rooms, also played an important role in the Victorian home.

Today, Victorian-inspired interiors can be far more restrained. Instead of reproducing every element of the period, homeowners can borrow its emphasis on craftsmanship, ornamentation, color, and texture to create rooms that feel collected and distinctive.

Embrace Rich Color

Victorian interiors provide plenty of inspiration for homeowners ready to venture beyond an all-neutral palette. Deep greens, burgundy, navy, plum, and other saturated shades can establish a rich backdrop, while warmer metallic tones and natural wood bring additional depth.

You don’t need to envelop an entire room in dark color to achieve the effect. Try introducing a deeper shade on built-in cabinetry, in a powder room, or through an accent wall. Against lighter surroundings, even a small amount of saturated color can provide the dramatic contrast associated with Victorian design.

Add Pattern to the Walls

Walls were rarely an afterthought in Victorian interiors. Elaborate wallpapers, botanical motifs, and repeating patterns brought decoration to the room itself, while wainscoting and decorative molding added dimension.

Wallpaper remains one of the easiest ways to introduce this sensibility today. A floral botanical print can transform a dining room, bedroom, entryway, or powder room without requiring additional ornamentation throughout the space. For a quieter interpretation, consider painted millwork, picture-frame molding, or wainscoting. These architectural details add visual interest while working well with both traditional and modern furnishings.

If your home already has original molding, ceiling medallions, a detailed staircase, or other historic features, consider making them part of the design rather than competing with them.

Layer Fabrics and Textures

Victorian design is anything but flat. Velvet, embroidery, lace, patterned rugs, and substantial drapery were traditionally layered throughout the home, giving a room a sense of softness and luxury.

In a contemporary space, a few carefully chosen textiles can accomplish the same thing without becoming overwhelming. A velvet sofa or accent chair can act as a focal point, while patterned rugs, upholstered furniture, and curtains introduce additional layers. Mixing materials is part of the appeal, so don’t be afraid to place soft textiles alongside wood, marble, brass, iron, or other harder finishes.

The goal is not for every surface to compete for attention, but for the room to reveal more detail the longer you spend in it.

Look for Furniture with Character

Traditional Victorian furniture tends to favor dark woods such as walnut and mahogany, often embellished with carved legs, curved forms, decorative inlays, or marble tops. Sideboards, occasional tables, upholstered chairs, and settees can all introduce these characteristics.

Rather than furnishing an entire room with period-inspired pieces, consider choosing one or two that provide contrast. An antique sideboard in an otherwise streamlined dining room or a carved wood chair beside a contemporary table can create a more layered look.

Antique and vintage pieces are especially well suited to this approach. Their natural variations and signs of age reinforce the sense that a room has developed over time rather than being assembled all at once.

Create a Collected Look

Where some contemporary styles celebrate empty surfaces, Victorian interiors embraced display. Artwork, books, ceramics, framed photographs, vases, and other personal objects were part of the home’s visual.

That makes Victorian design particularly adaptable for people who enjoy decorating with meaningful belongings. Instead of buying accessories to fill a room, use objects that tell a story. A collection of framed artwork can become a gallery wall, while books and heirlooms can give shelves and tabletops personality.

There is still room for editing. Grouping objects intentionally and leaving some visual breathing room can preserve the collected quality of Victorian design while keeping a modern home from feeling cluttered.

Make Lighting Part of the Design

Lighting offers another opportunity to introduce Victorian influence. Chandeliers, decorative sconces, and table lamps can function as design elements, particularly when they incorporate materials such as brass, glass, or crystal.

A statement fixture can also help establish the character of an otherwise simple room. Consider a chandelier above a dining table, sconces alongside a fireplace or mirror, or decorative Victorian lamps that create softer pools of light throughout a living space. Layering multiple light sources creates warmth and atmosphere while allowing ornate fixtures to stand out.

Mix Victorian and Modern Design

One of the most effective ways to use Victorian design today is through contrast. Pairing decorative architectural details with contemporary furniture—or ornate furniture with a simpler backdrop—allows each element to stand on its own.

A freestanding tub can provide a traditional focal point in a streamlined bathroom. Detailed molding can frame minimalist artwork. A vintage wood table can sit beneath a modern pendant. Even smaller details, such as decorative cabinet hardware or an antique mirror, can introduce Victorian character without determining the style of the entire room.

This balance is particularly useful in historic homes, where preserving original character must mean sacrificing contemporary comfort or functionality.

Classic room interior featuring green armchairs, wooden table, and decorative fireplace

Whether you’re restoring a period home or simply looking to give a newer space more personality, Victorian design offers plenty of room to make the style your own. Start with the elements that speak to you, layer them thoughtfully, and allow your home to tell its story through the things you choose to surround yourself with.

Sellers • August 25, 2026

Sustainable Upgrades That Help Your Home Sell for More

by Don Koonce

Selling a home begins with understanding how much it’s worth. After an initial assessment, you may want to make some updates to increase the value of your property. There are several ways to do that, including boosting your curb appeal or making renovations with significant ROI potential. As you research potential projects, keep in mind that making your home more sustainable can boost its value to potential buyers. In today’s market, many buyers are looking for eco-conscious features that offer long-term savings, lower utility bills, and improved health and comfort at home. Making the right green upgrades can help your home stand out. Talk with your agent to identify which of these five upgrades makes sense for your home before it hits the market.

Five Green Upgrades that Increase Your Home Value

1. Energy-Efficient Appliances

It’s no secret that appliances use a significant amount of energy, which means there is plenty of opportunity to cut back on their output. Installing energy-efficient appliances can do wonders for creating a more eco-friendly home, while appealing to buyers who value sustainability. And as many cities move toward energy codes that limit or eliminate the use of natural gas, energy-efficient electric appliances are becoming an important part of future-proofing your home. When shopping around, look for appliances with high-efficiency or Energy Star certifications. They may cost more to purchase, but their ability to generate long-term savings is a concrete selling point.

2. Tankless Water Heater

As the shift toward eco-friendly appliances has picked up steam, so too has the preference for tankless water heaters. Whereas standard storage tank water heaters keep a reservoir of hot water at the ready, tankless water heaters heat your home’s water supply on demand. It’s similar to a new car that shuts off its engine when sitting idle, as opposed to an older car whose engine is running all the time. Tankless water heaters don’t come without their share of costs. An upfront investment will be required for purchase and installation, but it will deliver immediate savings on energy bills.

3. Solar Panels

There are many benefits to going solar, but for sellers, the positive effect solar energy has on home values is chief among them. A solar-capable home is a surefire way to drum up buyer interest. By taking care of the upfront installation costs, you allow the buyer to focus on the benefits of solar energy, i.e., the long-term energy savings, the reduced utility bills, and the reduction in the property’s carbon footprint. Depending on your location, you may also be eligible for local or federal tax credits, utility rebates, or other incentives that can offset these installation costs. Work closely with your real estate agent to understand how solar energy has affected home prices in your area to get an idea of the project’s ROI potential.

4. Water Filtration

Installing a home water filtration system is one of the best ways to cut down on your home’s waste while increasing its value. These filtration systems appeal to buyers for a variety of reasons. Of course, there are an array of health benefits to having filtered water running through the entire house. Buyers can be assured that the water is safe to drink, they will be bathing and showering in clean water, and there is a reduced risk of plumbing issues due to contaminated water. Beyond the personal health benefits, it can also cut down on bottled water costs and the amount of landfill waste produced within the home. Some whole-home water filtration systems also come with smart sensors that track usage, detect leaks, and monitor filter lifespan, adding a layer of convenience and long-term savings for homeowners.

5. Energy-Efficient Windows

Alternatives to traditional windows have become more popular in recent years. Energy-efficient windows are better insulated, which helps to regulate temperatures inside the home and protects against harmful ultraviolet rays. Their ability to help regulate your home’s heating and cooling leads to energy savings and reduced carbon emissions. Energy-saving windows can be highly valuable to potential buyers, especially if you live in a climate with extreme temperatures.

In addition to temperature regulation, many buyers also appreciate how modern energy-efficient windows help with soundproofing—a big plus in urban or suburban neighborhoods.

Bonus Upgrades to Consider

If you’re looking to go a step further, here are a few more eco-friendly upgrades that may increase your home’s value and appeal:

Smart thermostats automatically adjust heating and cooling based on your schedule, saving energy and offering buyers convenience.
Upgrading to high-efficiency insulation in walls, attics, or crawl spaces can significantly reduce energy costs.
With electronic vehicles becoming more common, having a dedicated outlet or charging setup at home is a huge plus for future-minded buyers.

For more tips on the selling process, visit the selling section of my blog.

Blog – Selling

Real Estate News & Information • August 20, 2026

Washington Climbs to No. 9 In Annual State Ranking, Reversing Multi-year Slide

by Don Koonce

After a multi-year slip down the U.S. News & World Report “Best States” list, Washington moved up to No. 9 in latest edition released in late July, edging out last year’s 10th-place finish. It’s not quite back to the No. 2 ranking the state held in 2023, but its trend reversal is good news.

U.S. News builds its list using 71 different data points spanning eight categories: healthcare, education, the economy, crime and corrections, infrastructure, opportunity, fiscal stability, and the natural environment. Here’s how Washington fared in each:

Natural environment: No. 7
Education: No. 8
Infrastructure: No. 8
Healthcare: No. 14
Economy: No. 19
Crime and corrections: No. 26
Fiscal stability: No. 26
Opportunity: No. 34

Clean air, clean water, and low pollution levels earned the state its best finish, in the natural environment category. Education and infrastructure were just behind, though both hide a wide gap once you dig deeper into the specific data. Washington’s colleges and universities ranked No. 2 nationally, trailing only Florida, while K-12 schools, measured largely by test scores and graduation rates, came in at a middling No. 31. Infrastructure had a similar gap: the state’s energy grid and internet access both rated in the Top 10, but transportation networks lagged well behind at No. 30. Healthcare stayed steady across all its data points with solid scores for access, quality, and public health carrying it to No. 14.

Washington’s economy still beat out over half the country, buoyed by a strong business environment and healthy growth, but the unemployment subcategory, where the state sunk to No. 40, pulled the overall ranking down. A high rate of reported property theft and vandalism pulled the crime and corrections category to No. 26.

Fiscal stability produced the widest split of any category in the entire report. Washington ranked an impressive No. 3 for long-term financial health but fell to dead last — No. 50 — for short-term stability, a measure of budget balance and cash reserves. It’s the only spot on the list where Washington finished at the bottom.

Opportunity ended up as the state’s weakest overall category, at No. 34, and affordability is squarely to blame. The affordability subcategory, which weighs housing costs and overall cost of living, came in at No. 40, dragging down an otherwise respectable showing on economic opportunity and equality.

Looking at the rest of the country, Utah kept its grip on the top spot for a fourth straight year, cracking the Top 20 in six of eight categories; its one weak point was natural environment, where it ranked No. 48. Louisiana finished last for a fifth consecutive year, landing in the bottom 10 across every single category.

This post was based on information found on The Seattle Times and was originally published at getthewreport.com.

Real Estate Listings • August 18, 2026

NEW LISTING: Bothell Home Steps from Sammamish River Trail

by Don Koonce

11331 E Riverside Drive
Bothell, WA 98011
Listed at $1,058,000

MLS #2557512
CLIP #4695637128
Beds: 6
Baths: 3
Size: 2,714 sqft
Year Built: 1941
Lot Size Area: 15,650.00 sqft
Heating: High Efficiency, Forced Air
Cooling: Central Air, Ductless

Imagine mornings that start softly with birdsong and coffee from your deck just steps from the Sammamish River Trail, not just on a day off work, but every single day. Here you can live quietly in unhurried peace alongside a full slate of amenities that cater to both your daily and weekend calendars. This location offers high level public transportation/quick access to I-405, SR 522 for work commutes; top-rated Northshore schools, and Bothell’s historic walkable Main Street for everyday essentials w/ coffee shops, fitness centers, speakeasy-style cocktails, and craft brews.

The river trail provides daily touches with nature, leads to kayaking on the river, 40-acre Blyth park, or biking to Woodinville for wine-tasting. This home is move-in ready with modern systems, crisp, clean interiors, quartz kitchens & baths, plank flooring, Gas heat, tankless water heater, expansive deck for soaking up the private setting and entertaining friends.

Lighted open-beams, woodburning fireplace, and clever built-ins honor the craftsmanship of the original build; A/C and generator provide reliable comfort in all seasons. Lower level is appointed as independent 2 bedroom apartment or multi-generational living w/private entry. A remarkable opportunity to build a life in a space that has a rare and exceptional alchemy of slow, easy, small-town vibe + nature + urban infrastructure + solid investment.

Click here for more information.

Real Estate News & Information • August 13, 2026

Local Market Update – August 2026

by Don Koonce

July brought a shift across our four markets: after a year of building inventory and softening prices, every market area moved into balanced territory, with prices staying relatively steady across the board. Buyers, working with more leverage than in recent years, are finding more homes to choose from and taking more time to make decisions. Sellers are seeing that homes priced right and presented well are still attracting buyers. It’s a market that rewards preparation on both sides of the transaction, and one where good strategy pays off.

KING COUNTY

With 3.1 months of inventory, King County settled comfortably into a balanced market in July. The median residential sold price came in at $995,000, down 1% year over year but up slightly from June, a sign that pricing may be leveling out. Active listings rose 25% from a year ago, giving buyers considerably more to choose from, while closed and pending sales dropped 10% and 11% respectively, showing that buyers are willing to wait. Well-positioned homes are still moving quickly, though: nearly a quarter sold above asking price. More than a third of homes (35%) sold only after a price change, a signal to sellers that strategic pricing from the start remains the clearest path to success. In the condo segment, the median price dipped 2% year over year to $519,975, while active listings grew 21%.

SEATTLE

Seattle offered a bit of something for both buyers and sellers in July. Buyers continued to see more options than last year, with a 16% year-over-year increase in active listings. For sellers, the market remained competitive: 31% of homes sold above asking price and over 80% went under contract within 30 days, the fastest pace among our four areas, proof that strong demand for the right homes is still out there. But even so, activity was down compared to last year: closed sales cooled 14% and pending sales fell 17% as buyers continued to wait and watch. The median residential sold price dropped slightly, down 1% month over month and 1% from last year to $999,500. In the condo market, the median price fell 5% year over year to $525,000 as active listings rose 12%.

EASTSIDE

The Eastside gave buyers the most room to maneuver of our four markets this July, with active listings up 38% year over year and available supply reaching 4.0 months, teetering on the cusp of a buyer’s market. That expanded selection translated to real negotiating power for buyers: nearly three-quarters of homes sold below asking or after a price change. The median residential sold price held essentially flat from last year at $1,575,000, and 74% of homes sold within 30 days. Eastside condos saw the median price drop just 1% even as active listings rose 28%.

SNOHOMISH COUNTY

Snohomish County was the standout market in July. Closed sales rose 3% year over year, the only market to post a gain across our four regions, even as active listings climbed 33%, giving buyers more choice without cooling transactions. The median residential sold price fell 6% year over year to $757,250, opening opportunities for more buyers. 40% of homes sold only after a price reduction, but 71% went under contract within 30 days, showing that buyers remain engaged and ready to act when the price is right. The condo market followed a similar trend, with closed sales up 9% even as the median price fell 6% to $500,000.

As we enter the final month of summer, the question on everyone’s mind is whether this new balance holds. Mortgage rates remain persistently high, and affordability concerns are keeping potential buyers on the sidelines. But for buyers who are ready, greater selection and softer prices than in recent years means more opportunity. Sellers who list in the coming months may find more interest, too, since fewer new listings typically hit the market after the summer season, and well-prepared homes could stand out even more as choices thin out. Whichever side of the of the transaction you’re on, an experienced Windermere advisor can help you map out a plan and timeline that fits your goals.

When Is a Home Seller Paid? Understanding the Closing Process

by Don Koonce

A successful home sale doesn’t end with an accepted offer. Behind every closing is a carefully coordinated process involving escrow, title, lenders, and legal documentation—all working together to ensure ownership is transferred securely and funds are distributed correctly. Knowing what happens during the final stretch can help you approach closing day with confidence.

So, When Does a Home Seller Get Paid?

The short answer: after the transaction has officially closed and ownership has transferred to the buyer. While the exact timing can vary slightly depending on where you’re selling, most sellers receive their proceeds once all closing requirements have been completed and the sale has been recorded.

Here’s what happens between accepting an offer and receiving your funds.

Step 1: Accept an Offer

Once you and the buyer sign a purchase agreement, you’re officially under contract. The buyer will typically submit earnest money, which is held in escrow while the transaction moves forward.

Although the sale is underway, you won’t receive your proceeds at this point. There are still several important steps before closing day.

Step 2: The Transaction Moved Through Escrow

Escrow acts as a neutral third party that helps coordinate the transaction from contract to closing. During this time, the buyer may complete inspections, secure financing, satisfy contingencies, and work with their lender to finalize the loan.

At the same time, the title company verifies that the property’s ownership can be transferred without any outstanding legal issues, while escrow prepares the documents and financial details needed for closing.

Step 3: Closing Documents Are Signed

As closing day approaches, both the buyer and seller sign the documents needed to complete the transaction. For sellers, this generally includes signing the deed and paperwork required to transfer ownership. Buyers will sign their loan documents and finalize financing with their lender.

While signing is an exciting milestone, it doesn’t always mean you’ll receive your proceeds immediately. One final step still needs to happen before the transaction is officially complete.

Step 4: The Sale is Recorded

After all documents have been signed and the buyer’s funds have been received, the sale is recorded with the appropriate local government office. Recording is the legal transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer.

Once recording is complete, the transaction is officially closed, and escrow can distribute the funds.

Wet Closings vs. Dry Closings

Depending on where you’re buying or selling, you may hear the terms wet closing and dry closing. The difference comes down to when the buyer’s loan is funded and when the seller receives their proceeds.

In a wet closing, all documents are signed, and the buyer’s loan is funded before the transaction officially closes. Once the sale is recorded, the seller’s proceeds are typically released shortly afterward, often on the same day.

In a dry closing, the closing documents may be signed first, but the buyer’s loan funding or final document review happens afterward. Because of this, there may be a delay of one to three business days before funds are released, and the buyer receives the keys. While it may extend the timeline slightly, a dry closing provides lenders with additional time to review documents, verify funding, and resolve any last-minute issues before the transaction is finalized.

Dry closings commonly occur because of lender funding timelines, pending document review, or regional real estate laws. The states that practice dry closings include Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, and Washington.

Whether your transaction is wet or dry closing depends on local regulations, lender requirements, and customary practices. Your real estate agent and escrow officer can help you understand what to expect.

How Do Sellers Receive Their Money?

Once the transaction has closed, sellers generally receive their proceeds through a wire transfer directly to a bank account or with a cashier’s check.

Before the funds are distributed, escrow also pays off any remaining mortgage balance, along with commissions, taxes, agreed-upon credits, and other closing costs. The remaining balance is your net proceeds.

How Long Does It Take to Get Paid?

In many transactions, sellers receive their proceeds on the same day the sale is recorded. However, the exact timing can vary depending on the escrow company, county recording schedule, and your financial institution.

If your proceeds are sent by wire transfer, they may arrive later that day, or in some cases, on the next business day.

The Bottom Line

While accepting an offer is an exciting milestone, it’s only one step in the home selling process. The transaction isn’t officially complete until the necessary documents have been signed, the sale has been recorded, and escrow has distributed the funds.

Having an experienced real estate agent by your side can make each stage of the closing process feel more manageable. If you’re preparing to sell your home, a Windermere agent can guide you through every step and help ensure you know what to expect.

Real Estate News & Information • August 6, 2026

Private Listings Are Creating a Buyer Problem. How Will We Solve It?

by Don Koonce

by OB Jacobi

This article was originally published by Inman News on July 27, 2026.

The House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust just sent letters to Compass CEO Robert Reffkin and Midwest Real Estate Data (MRED) CEO Rebecca Jensen, demanding briefings on the companies’ private listing partnership. Congress wants to know whether the deal – which pushes Compass’s “Private Exclusives” and “Coming Soon” listings nationwide through a database built for regional use – amounts to anticompetitive conduct.

Lawmakers highlighted concerns that private listing networks could fragment inventory, weaken price competition, and build “velvet ropes” around homes, shutting out anyone not already inside the right circle of agents and buyers.

It’s a moment our industry should welcome. But buried almost as an aside in the subcommittee’s letter is a troubling question: whether these partnerships incentivize agents to steer sellers toward private listings so a brokerage can represent both sides of a deal, or as the letter noted, “capture” buyers who contact the listing agent directly.

Read that again. Congress isn’t only asking whether Compass has gotten too big. It’s asking whether buyers are being funneled toward whichever agent benefits the brokerage, rather than the one who actually serves them.

That is a buyer problem, and it deserves to be treated like one.

An incomplete story

For months, the industry’s defense of private listing networks has centered almost entirely on the seller. Sellers benefit from privacy, sellers deserve choice, and full transparency exposes them to unfair judgment over how long a home quietly sat unsold.

Given this congressional inquiry, a Consumer Federation of America request that the DOJ investigate the same partnership, an ongoing Zillow lawsuit alleging collusion, and a New York Attorney General probe into the Compass-Anywhere merger, you’d think the industry might finally widen the lens.

Instead, the same seller-centered defense keeps getting pushed. Missing from nearly every version of this narrative is the party that is actually being squeezed out of the market: the buyer.

The buyer is already losing ground

The National Association of Realtors’ own 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers tells a sobering story. First-time buyers made up just 21% of all purchasers this year, the lowest share NAR has recorded since it began tracking the data in 1981, and roughly half the historical norm of about 40% before the 2008 crash. The typical first-time buyer is now 40 years old, an all-time high, up from the late 20s a generation ago, and NAR’s own research leadership notes that delaying a first purchase by a decade can cost a buyer roughly $150,000 in lost home equity over time. That is not a market functioning normally. That is a generation of would-be buyers, including younger families, first-generation wealth builders, and renters trying to break in, all being pushed further to the margins. Into that environment, some brokerages want to normalize keeping listings quiet, curated, and shared selectively before the broader buyer pool ever sees them. It makes no sense.

“Seller choice” has been weaponized

The justification usually offered is seller choice. Some sellers simply prefer privacy, and in select cases that’s true and justifiable. But when you look at what’s actually driving the rise of private and pre-marketed listings, seller demand isn’t the obvious explanation. Independent surveys of agents have found that the overwhelming majority – roughly seven in ten – say no client has ever actually asked them to market a home privately.

If sellers didn’t drive this tactic, it’s worth asking who benefits. The answer is the brokerage. A private or pre-marketed listing gives the listing brokerage a longer runway to also produce the buyer, collecting both sides of the commission before the property is exposed to the full marketplace. That’s not seller protection, it’s a business model, and buyers absorb the cost in reduced access and information. Interestingly, the metrics also show private sales tend to hurt the seller too, by leaving money on the table, which is why I see private listing networks as a perfect lose/lose. Neither the seller, nor the information-starved buyer, benefit.

Consumer advocates are noticing, and now so is Washington

This isn’t a fringe concern. A recent report from the Consumer Federation of America, produced with the National Urban League and drawing on a survey of housing counselors across dozens of states, flagged pocket and private listings as an emerging threat to fair and equal access to housing. Civil rights advocates have raised similar alarms for years. A marketplace that lets some buyers in early and keeps others out isn’t just inefficient, it can reproduce the very access barriers our industry has fought to dismantle. Congress asking hard questions is a good start, but they shouldn’t stop at market concentration, they should extend to every buyer who never got a fair look at a home because they weren’t plugged into the right network.

Transparency isn’t a threat to sellers, it protects everyone

At Windermere, we don’t believe that transparency and strong seller outcomes are in conflict. A well-informed marketplace, where buyers trust they’re seeing the full picture, produces more competitive offers and more durable transactions for sellers and buyers alike. And skilled real estate professionals should not need to rely on the artificial suppression of public inventory and market data to do their jobs. That’s why we’ve taken concrete steps to make sure our own listings clearly disclose their marketing history, so buyers aren’t left guessing what’s been withheld.

As lawmakers dig into the Compass-MRED partnership, I hope they ask the question our industry keeps avoiding, not just whether this arrangement makes one brokerage too powerful, but whether it leaves buyers with less information, less access, and less leverage than they deserve.

The industry can keep telling a story where sellers are the only ones at risk. Or it can look honestly, finally, at who’s actually being locked out of the market right now. First-time buyers aren’t disappearing because the market is transparent. They’re disappearing because, in too many ways, it isn’t.

Buyers • August 4, 2026

Pros and Cons of Buying New Construction

by Don Koonce

For many buyers, there’s something exciting about being the first person to live in a home. New construction offers modern layouts, updated finishes, and the opportunity to start fresh without taking on someone else’s renovation projects. While buying a newly built home has plenty of advantages, it also comes with a few tradeoffs that are worth considering before you make an offer.

Whether you’re comparing a brand-new home to an existing property or simply exploring your options, understanding the benefits and potential drawbacks can help you make a more informed decision.

The Benefits of Buying New Construction

One of the biggest reasons buyers choose new construction is that everything is designed with today’s lifestyle in mind. Many newly built homes feature open-concept floor plans, spacious kitchens, dedicated home office space, walk-in closets, and flexible living areas that can easily adapt as your needs change.

Because every component of the home is brand new, maintenance costs are often lower during the first several years of ownership. Instead of budgeting for the replacement of an aging roof, outdated plumbing, or an older furnace, many homeowners can spend more time enjoying their new space and less time worrying about repairs.

New homes are also generally more energy efficient than older properties. Modern insulation, high-performance windows, efficient HVAC systems, ENERGY STAR® appliances, smart thermostats, and other connected home technology can reduce utility costs while adding everyday convenience through features like smart locks, video doorbells, and integrated security systems.

Many builders also include warranties covering workmanship, major systems, and structural components for a specified period after closing, providing added peace of mind in case issues arise after you move in. And if you’re purchasing before construction is complete, you may have the opportunity to personalize finishes such as flooring, cabinetry, countertops, paint colors, and lighting to better reflect your style.

Perhaps one of the most appealing benefits is that a new home is truly move-in ready. Everything is clean, unused, and built to current building codes and standards, meaning you likely won’t need to plan for immediate renovations or major updates after closing.

Potential Drawbacks of Buying New Construction

One of the biggest considerations is cost. New homes often carry a higher purchase price than comparable resale homes, and the advertised base price doesn’t always include everything you see in the model home (if located within a new construction development). Premium flooring, upgraded cabinetry, designer lighting, landscaping, appliances, and lot premiums can quickly increase the final purchase price.

Timing can also be a factor. If the home hasn’t been completed yet, construction schedules may change due to weather, labor shortages, permitting delays, or supply chain delays. Buyers who need to move on a specific timeline may find that an existing home offers more certainty.

When buying in a new community, there are some additional factors to consider. While the homes themselves may be complete, neighborhoods can take years to fully mature. Landscaping is still growing, trees are often smaller, construction may continue nearby, and community amenities such as parks, clubhouses, or walking trails may still be under development. Lot sizes are another consideration. Many newer developments maximize land use by placing homes closer together than older neighborhoods, which can mean smaller yards and less outdoor space.

When it comes to negotiating, builders typically have less flexibility on the purchase price of the home than individual sellers do. Instead of reducing the asking price, they may offer incentives such as closing cost assistance, financing promotions, appliance packages, or design upgrades.

Finally, many new developments include homeowners’ associations (HOAs). In addition to monthly dues, HOAs may establish guidelines for landscaping, exterior paint colors, parking, fencing, and other aspects of the property. Understanding those rules before purchasing can help ensure the community is a good fit for your lifestyle.

Is Buying New Construction Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice ultimately depends on your priorities, budget, and long-term goals.

New construction may be an excellent option if you’re looking for a move-in-ready home with modern features, lower maintenance requirements, improved energy efficiency, and the opportunity to personalize finishes before moving in. It can be especially appealing if you plan to stay in the home for several years and want the convenience of starting fresh.

On the other hand, an existing home may be a better fit if you value mature neighborhoods, larger lots, distinctive architectural character, or greater flexibility when negotiating price. Resale homes can also offer advantages for buyers who need to move quickly or have a more limited budget.

No matter which path you choose, understanding the tradeoffs between new construction and existing homes can help you feel more confident throughout the buying process.

Living • July 30, 2026

6 Commonly Missed Cleaning Spots

by Don Koonce

It’s easy to get into a routine when cleaning your home season after season, year after year. While simply going over the same spots may make your home feel cleaner, at the same time, it allows the neglected areas to become dirtier. Here are six commonly missed spots around the home that, once given the attention they deserve, will help make your home feel completely clean.

6 Commonly Missed Cleaning Spots

1. Underneath & Behind Furniture

Dirt and dust love to hide in tough-to-reach, tucked-away spots like behind your nightstand, under your bed frame, and on the underside of your tables, chairs, and couches. Cleaning these areas may require some heavy lifting and rearranging but it’s worth your while. If enough dust and grime have accumulated over the years that your vacuum can’t remove the buildup, try using a washcloth to loosen the sediment.

2. Vents and Fans

Vents and fans not only collect dust, but they also distribute it around your home. Ceiling fans are one of the hardest spots in your home to reach, so you may need to use a ladder and an extended duster to clean them. Clean your vent grates with a dusting brush or a wire brush depending on the thickness of the buildup. If your home has central air, remember to replace your air filters periodically. A clean ventilation system is key to protecting your home’s air quality.

3. Bathroom Surfaces

We all know the feeling of picking up a rarely used shampoo bottle in the shower to discover a grimy ring underneath it. Wipe off your bottles and surfaces in the shower to keep it sparkling clean. Scrub away the debris from your shower head and soak it in a mixture of water and white vinegar to cleanse the device and to prevent a buildup of mineral deposits. To reach behind the toilet, you may need knee pads and an extended cleaning tool. Use a disinfectant-water mixture to prevent the spread of germs. Tackling chores like these will help make your bathroom feel brand new in no time.

4. Switches & Handles

Light switches, door handles, drawer pulls, and knobs are all hotbeds for germs and dirt and can easily be forgotten while cleaning your home. Take a two-step approach to cleaning these high-touch surfaces: first clean, then disinfect. Cleaning will get rid of contaminants, while disinfecting targets pathogens. The combination of the two will help make your home feel cleaner while reducing the spread of germs. Other high-touch surfaces such as keyboards, phones, tablets, and other devices require regular cleaning as well.

5. Appliances

It’s easy to think of your appliances strictly as devices that help your home stay clean and organized, but they are magnets for dirt and gunk, too. After cleaning out the refrigerator and scrubbing down the shelves, find the coils and clean them of debris with a vacuum or a brush. The floor underneath your refrigerator can be a seriously grimy spot, so a quick mop of that area is worth your while. Give your dishwasher a good cleanse to prevent mold buildup and bad odors. Remember to clean out the filter occasionally with soap and water. Cleaning your appliances routinely can help avoid repairs and can even extend their life expectancy.

6. Baseboards

Baseboards are the perfect settling point for dirt and dust. The space between your walls and floors is an easy trap for buildup, and upon closer inspection, you’ll find some combination of scuffs, dust, food remnants and scratch marks. To thoroughly clean your baseboards, you may need to move your furniture away from the walls but be careful not to scratch the floor or damage the baseboards. Wipe away the dust before cleaning the surface. Use either a mix of soap and water, water and vinegar, or the proper wood cleaner for wooden baseboards.

Real Estate News & Information • July 28, 2026

High Rates, Prices Drive King County Buyers Toward Adjustable-Rate Mortgages

by Don Koonce

King County homebuyers are increasingly turning to adjustable-rate mortgages to reduce their monthly homeownership costs. With the county’s median home price approaching $1 million and mortgage rates stubbornly above 6%, the affordability pressures driving this trend continue to grow.

Unlike traditional fixed-rate mortgages, adjustable-rate mortgages start with a lower interest rate that remains fixed for an initial period of several years before adjusting with the market. That lower starting rate is the primary draw for buyers looking to reduce their monthly payments.

In 2025, 36% of King County home purchases involved an adjustable-rate mortgage. Across Washington, adjustable-rate mortgages made up nearly a quarter of home loans, the highest share the state has seen since 2007. With mortgage rates on the rise again due to inflationary and political pressures, and no Federal Reserve cuts expected, experts say that share is likely to keep climbing.

Adjustable-rate mortgages are typically 0.5% to 1% lower than conventional fixed-rate mortgages, totaling a minimum savings of roughly $244 per month on a $750,000 loan at today’s rate. In King County, where prices routinely exceed that figure, the savings can be even more significant.

Many buyers are betting that rates will fall before their fixed period ends, allowing them to refinance, or plan to sell before their rate adjusts at all. Industry experts describe it as a relatively low-risk approach for buyers who do not expect to stay in their home beyond the typical seven-year window.

Adjustable-rate mortgages carry a stigma from the 2008 financial crisis, when they played a central role in a wave of foreclosures. Lenders at the time offered extremely low introductory rates lasting only two or three years and approved practically anyone regardless of their ability to repay. By 2004, these loans made up half of all home loans in Washington. When borrowers could not afford the higher rates, the fallout reshaped the housing market for years.

Today’s adjustable-rate mortgages are a different product entirely. Lenders must now verify that borrowers can afford the loan at higher post-introductory rates, initial fixed periods are longer, and rate discounts are more modest, making the kind of payment shock that defined the 2008 crisis far less likely.

With ongoing affordability concerns statewide and across King County, adjustable-rate mortgages offer a way to reduce the initial cost of the loan. In large part, their increasing popularity stems from the growing gap between home prices and what many borrowers can afford.

This post was based on information found on Puget Sound Business Journal.