Sellers • February 24, 2026

The Power of a 30-Second First Impression: Why Reels Are the New Curb Appeal

by Don Koonce

In real estate, we all know how important first impressions are. For decades, curb appeal has been the gold standard for catching a buyer’s attention—but today, those first impressions are happening online, often in under 30 seconds. As more buyers scroll listings on their phones or stumble across homes on social media, video has become one of the most powerful tools in a listing agent’s toolkit.

Enter: Reels.

Reels have completely redefined how we make an impact online. With a single scroll-stopping clip, you can showcase the flow of a home, highlight its best features, and spark an emotional connection long before a showing is ever scheduled. Where we used to say, “Make them fall in love in the driveway,” now we’re saying, “Make them fall in love on their For You Page.”

Why Reels Matter in Real Estate

Short-form video is dominating the digital space, and real estate is no exception. According to recent reports, Instagram Reels receive 22% more engagement and twice the visibility of any other content type. That means more views, more saves, more shares, and more potential buyers seeing your listing.

Even more compelling? Most users decide whether to keep watching in the first 3 seconds. In a market where timing matters and attention is limited, that makes every second count.

With Reels, you’re not just marketing a home—you’re creating an experience, expanding your reach, and showing up exactly where today’s buyers are: on mobile, on social, and online.

The Language of Social Media, Decoded

If you’re new to the social media space, all the jargon can feel overwhelming. Here’s a quick guide to the terms that matter most:

Impressions: How many times your content was shown, even if the same person views it multiple times
Reach: The total number of unique people who saw your content
Interactions: The real engagement, including likes, comments, shares, and saves
Engagement rate: A measure of how much people are interacting with your posts
Social reading: The process of learning from performance to see what’s working, what’s not, and how to pivot

Understanding these numbers helps you make informed choices about what to post and when—turning social into a strategic tool, not just a to-do list.

How a Reel Can Boost a Listing

Reels help your listing show up where buyers already are: scrolling, saving, and planning their next move. Photos can showcase a home’s style, but video brings it to life. A reel allows buyers to experience the home’s layout, lighting, and feel—something static images can’t always convey. Think of reels as a guided tour that lives right on their screen.

When your reel helps someone imagine themselves living there, you create something powerful: connection. And that leads to more views, more clicks, more showings, and ultimately, more offers.

Tips for Creating Scroll-Stopping Reels

You don’t need to be a content creator to make an impact. Here’s a checklist for effective real estate reels:

Keep it short—ideally under 30 seconds
Use trending or high-quality audio (voiceovers or music)
Open with movement or your most impressive feature
Use on-screen text to highlight what viewers are seeing
End with a CTA (“Message me for a private tour”)

Pro tip: Reels with trending audio, natural lighting, and a clear opening shot perform best. Start strong and guide the viewer through the story of the home.

Reels = Results

We’ve already seen how reels are helping agents across the industry expand their reach. One well-timed reel can:

Double the impressions of a standard photo post
Attract new buyers who weren’t actively looking but got inspired
Drive traffic from Instagram and Facebook directly to a listing

The best part? Reels often reach people who don’t even follow your account—giving your listing even more visibility.

Social Is the New Curb Appeal

Today’s buyers are online. They’re discovering homes through hashtags, algorithms, and short-form video. That’s why investing in reels isn’t just smart—it’s strategic. Whether you’re showcasing a cozy condo, a luxury estate, or a hidden gem with a killer view, reels help you tell the story of the home in a way that resonates.

Buyers • February 19, 2026

Small Town Revival: Why Everyone’s Moving Back to Main Street

by Don Koonce

by Windermere Staff

After decades of city living being the goal, a fresh trend is emerging. More and more people—especially young adults—are reimagining what “home” looks like, and that picture is starting to look a lot like small-town life. From coast to coast, smaller communities are seeing new life as individuals and families seek more space, deeper connections, and a quieter pace. This blog explores why so many are making the move and what it could mean for your next chapter.

A Big Shift Toward Smaller Places

It’s not just nostalgia or affordability driving people back to Main Street. Small towns offer a sense of balance that can be hard to find in big cities. Less time commuting means more time doing what you love. Smaller crowds make room for bigger conversations. And without the constant rush of city life, people are rediscovering how good it feels to slow down and stay awhile.

What’s Driving the Move?

Affordability and the Dream of Homeownership

Big city rent and home prices continue to climb, pricing out many first-time buyers. In smaller towns, buyers are finding more space, greater value, and a better chance of affording their first home. Whether it’s trading a one-bedroom apartment for a three-bedroom house or simply paying less for everyday essentials, the savings are adding up.

Remote work and Flexibility

With more jobs going remote (and staying that way), people are no longer tied to a specific metro area. This new freedom has allowed many to choose where they want to live based on lifestyle rather than commute.

Lifestyle and Access to Nature

Small towns often come with quieter streets, shorter commutes, and greater access to outdoor recreation. From scenic trails to lakefronts and beaches, natural amenities are high on the priority list for today’s buyers.

Community and Connection

In a time when many people feel disconnected, small towns offer something invaluable: a strong sense of community. You’re more likely to know your neighbors, shop at local businesses, and feel rooted in something bigger than yourself. For some, these towns also offer more chances to get involved, including local politics or town-wide initiatives that are often more accessible and welcoming to newcomers.

Entrepreneurship and New Opportunity

According to recent IRS data, small towns have seen a faster rise in new business formation than large cities post-2020. With less competition, lower startup costs, and supportive communities, many entrepreneurs are finding that perfect launchpad in small-town markets.

Education and Family Life

Families are also being drawn to the more personal, community-based education options often found in small towns. Smaller class sizes and greater access to teachers can make a big difference for growing kids. With lower crime rates and more outdoor space, many parents feel they can offer their children a safer and more well-rounded upbringing.

The Other Side: What to Consider

While small-town life has its perks, it’s not without trade-offs. Here are a few things to consider before packing your bags:

Limited medical services: Access to specialists and immediate care may be limited.
Fewer job options: While remote work helps, certain industries may have fewer local opportunities.
Diversity and culture: Small towns may have less cultural diversity and fewer entertainment options.
Transportation: Public transportation is often sparse or nonexistent. Owning a car or other means of transportation may be necessary.

How Places Like Seabrook, WA Are Leading the Way

One standout example of this new wave of small-town living is Seabrook, Washington. Perched on the Washington coast, Seabrook was designed to blend timeless charm with walkability, coastal views, and a strong sense of place.

Founded in 2004, Seabrook has grown to include 600 homes, over 20 parks, 24 shops and restaurants, a grocery store, pools, trails, and more. It was designed to offer an urban-meets-coastal lifestyle, and today, it’s a thriving year-round community with schools, medical clinics, and a regenerative farm that supports local restaurants and residents.

Whether it’s a full-time move or a weekend escape, places like Seabrook are proving that small towns can offer everything people are looking for: modern convenience, community, and a deep sense of belonging.

Is Small-Town Living Right for You?

If you’ve been dreaming of a slower pace, a bigger yard, or just more breathing room, you’re not alone. Ask yourself:

Do you work remotely or have a flexible schedule?
Are you craving more nature and outdoor recreation?
Would you trade a bustling nightlife for stronger community ties?
Is homeownership feeling out of reach in your current city?

If you answered yes to most of these, a move to a small town might be worth exploring.

Real Estate News & Information • February 17, 2026

Local Market Update – February 2026

by Don Koonce

The region’s housing market opened the year in a more balanced position, shaped by rising inventory, shifting buyer activity, and continued price adjustments across local markets. While affordability remains a central challenge, expanded housing supply and early signs of renewed buyer interest are beginning to influence market dynamics.

KING COUNTY

In January, King County’s median single-family home price dipped 1% year over year and 6% month over month to $850,000. Active listings climbed 31% from last year, giving buyers more choice than last winter. Buyer interest showed signs of reawakening coming out of the holidays, with pending sales up an impressive 37% month over month, signaling early momentum ahead of spring. Closed sales lagged, falling 4% from last year, showing that overall transaction volume remained softer despite improving buyer activity. In the condo market, the median sold price slipped 16% year over year to $502,475, even as listings grew 18%.

SEATTLE

Seattle began 2026 with clear signs of growing market balance. January’s median residential sold price slipped 1% year over year and 7% month over month to $850,000, while inventory rose 30% from last January. Although pending sales were down from last year, the 36% month-over-month increase points to renewed buyer activity heading into spring. Closed sales held steady compared to last year, indicating consistent underlying demand. For Seattle condos, the median price dropped 19% year over year to $557,000 as inventory climbed 22%.

EASTSIDE

Last month’s median residential sold price on the Eastside fell 16% year over year to $1,435,000, while active listings climbed 49% from last January and 19% month over month, suggesting both a market in transition and that sellers remained active despite seasonal factors. Buyer activity showed notable strength, with pending sales up 26% year over year and surging 69% from December—a sign that improved selection and pricing may be drawing buyers back in. Closed sales edged 4% higher than last year despite the much more crowded market. The median sold price for condos slipped 15% year over year to $628,000 and active listings increased 21%.

SNOHOMISH COUNTY

In Snohomish County, January’s median price for a single-family home declined 7% year over year and 6% month over month to $715,000. Active listings rose 39% from the same time last year and 10% from December. Buyer interest showed early signs of improvement, with pending sales increasing 29% month over month, even as closed sales fell 24% year over year, reflecting a thinner pipeline of completed transactions. In the county’s condo market, the median price dropped 18% to $470,000 as active listings rose 16%.

As the market moves deeper into the first quarter, inventory levels and buyer response will be key indicators to watch. Rising pending sales activity in several areas suggests that buyers are beginning to re-enter the market as pricing and selection improve. Whether this momentum carries forward will depend largely on interest rate stability and broader economic confidence. In a market defined by nuance, the expertise of a Windermere advisor is essential for understanding the latest changes in today’s real estate market.

Top Home Design Trends to Know in 2026

by Don Koonce

Design trends have always reflected more than style. They reflect how people want to live. And as we move into 2026, home design continues to shift away from one-size-fits-all aesthetics and toward spaces that feel intentional, expressive, and more personal.

After several years shaped by minimalism, fast trends, and highly curated interiors, homeowners are now prioritizing warmth, character, and longevity, creating environments that support everyday life. That shift is reflected across design forecasts, color reports, and industry insights, where a few defining themes continue to show up. These are the top interior design trends shaping homes in 2026 and how they translate into real, livable spaces.

Lived-In, Layered Interiors

In recent years, many interiors have leaned towards polished, photo-ready spaces that always look perfect. In 2026, that approach continues to soften, and perfection takes a back seat to personality.

Layered, collected interiors are leading the way. Spaces that look as though they have come together over time feel warmer and more inviting. Mixing vintage with new pieces, displaying meaningful objects, and creating soft structure through books, art, textiles, and ceramics adds depth and story. A worn wood table, a reupholstered vintage chair, or a gallery wall that grows naturally gives a home character that can’t be replaced overnight.

Rich, Grounding Color Palettes

Color continues to shape how a home feels, and 2026 paint color trends lean into depth with a calming edge. Think nature-inspire tones like smoky blues, warm browns, muted reds, and softened neutrals that ground a room without feeling heavy.

Behr’s 2026 Color of the Year, Hidden Gem, fits beautifully into this direction. It’s a smoky green-blue that feels rich yet refined, perfect for homeowners who want a space that’s serene yet still has presence. Similar color stories are appearing across other forecasts too, from patina-inspired blues, greens, and browns to warm khakis and layered whites.

Color Drenching and Moody Rooms

If you’re seeing more immersive, saturated rooms online, that’s no accident. Color drenching, which uses a single hue across walls, trims, and sometimes ceilings, continues to rise as one of the standout interior design trends in 2026. When done thoughtfully, it creates a cocoon-like effect that feels polished, intimate, and cohesive.

This is also part of a broader shift toward moodier spaces. Deeper greens, tobacco-inspired browns, warm blacks, and earth reds are showing up in dining rooms, powder baths, offices, and libraries. The key is balance—pairing saturated color with warm wood, soft lighting, and texture to keep the room inviting.

Warm Woods and Character Grain

Wood is making a confident return in 2026, but not in a shiny, match-everything way. Interiors now favor deeper stains, visible grain, and pieces with real character. Reclaimed materials, vintage finds, and finishes that show variation all add warmth and depth.

This shows up in kitchens, furniture, and architectural details like beams, built-ins, and trim. If you’re bringing wood into your home, Minwax’s 2026 Stain Color of the Year, Special Walnut, fits the mood: a warm, versatile brown that enhances natural grain and works across styles from modern to traditional.

Paired with stone, linen, and even metal, wood brings warmth and timelessness—two qualities today’s buyers tend to notice immediately when they walk into a home.

Texture as the New Luxury

Another defining shift in home décor trends for 2026 is the return of texture, especially tactile, handcrafted, and visually soft elements. Textile wall hangings, tapestries, layered rugs, and subtle decorative trims like fringe and tassels are making an easy way to add depth without clutter. You don’t need to go maximal to make it work. A fabric panel hung like art, a woven wall piece, or even vintage textiles repurposed as décor can make a space feel warmer and more grounded. In a world that often feels overly digital, texture brings a human, lived-in quality that’s hard to fake.

Function Forward Design

Function continues to shape design decisions in 2026. Modular furniture, flexible layouts, and thoughtful storage solutions are becoming more prevalent as homes are expected to support multiple roles. Benches with hidden storage, ottomans that double as work surfaces, and adaptable seating arrangements allow spaces to shift easily between hosting, working, and relaxing.

Sustainability as the Standard

Sustainability is no longer a niche consideration. In 2026, it’s an expectation. It shows up in material choices, sourcing, and the lifespan of the pieces we bring into our homes. Homeowners are paying close attention to upgrades that support energy efficiency and long-term livability.

At the same time, thrifting and buying secondhand continue to grow across age groups, driven by both environmental awareness and the search for higher-quality materials. Vintage and antique furniture often offers better craftsmanship and longevity than mass-produced alternatives, while adding instant character to a space.

Whether you’re updating a room or thinking about your next move, these trends offer a thoughtful lens for creating a home that feels both current and enduring.

Design • February 10, 2026

What Makes a Home Modern? 6 Features of Modern Architecture

by Don Koonce

Sleek, sustainable design, open concept floor plans, minimalism, and eco-conscious thinking are defining characteristics of modern architecture. These concepts were formed in the early to mid-twentieth century as part of the modern art movement which encompassed art deco interior design and mid-century modern architecture among other styles. Here’s a breakdown of the features that define modern architecture.

6 Features of Modern Architecture

1. Clean Geometric Lines

At the heart of modernist values lies the simplification of form. Ornate decorations quickly became a thing of the past as designers became focused on taking a no-frills approach to home design. Modernist homes have a very linear feel with straight lines and exposed building materials, as opposed to more irregular shapes that were popular in the past.

2. Multifunctional Spaces

Multifunctional living spaces are a foundational element of modern homes. Built-in storage is commonly used to reflect this multi-purpose, space-saving feel. This gives added significance to the spaces in a home by upping each one’s utility. It creates an environment where everything has purpose.

3. Eco-Friendly

Modern homes are well suited for technological and eco-friendly home upgrades, as well as eco-friendly building materials and energy efficient practices, and flat roofs to accommodate solar power. A new trend is to decorate each room with plants for a calming, soothing effect. Large windows are abundant in modern architecture, allowing light to fill and expand the interior space, bringing the natural world indoors.

Image Source: Getty Images – Image Credit: irina88w

4. Post-and-Beam Structure

Exposed wood posts and ceiling beams are classic elements in modern architecture and modern offshoots like farmhouse interior design. Modern homes significantly emphasize the structure rather than hiding the bones behind drywall. In new modern homes the post-and-beam structure can be made of concrete, iron, or other materials. The visible horizontal and vertical beams reinforce the clean geometric lines of the space.

5. Open Concept

Modern design strives to “open” the space by eliminating enclosed rooms. A common design method is to open the kitchen and dining room into an open living space, allowing the spaces to flow into one another.

6. Minimalism

With open and connected modernist spaces, careful curation of furniture, décor, and household objects is paramount to incorporating the modernist aesthetic. Generally, modernist homes have art and furniture that reflects the clean geometric lines and the natural materials of the architecture, leaving less space for clutter. Minimalist philosophies encourage few household items that serve both form and function, which work well within this design and architectural style.

Image Source: Getty Images – Image Credit: alvarez

Contemporary vs. Modern Architecture & Design

The terms “contemporary” and “modern” are thrown around interchangeably. They do possess a certain degree of overlapping qualities, but specifically in the design world, “modern” refers to styles influenced by the early to mid-twentieth century movement, while contemporary design is what is popular in the present. Whatever interior design trends are at the forefront can be said to be contemporary, while modern interior design is still influenced by a specific period in the past.

For more information on home design, read about how to keep up with trends while decorating your home colorfully:

Colorful Modern Design Trends for Your Home

Featured Image Source: Getty Images – Image Credit: onurdongel

Sellers • February 5, 2026

Minimize Stress While Selling Your Home

by Don Koonce

After years of collecting furniture, plants, and memories, the thought of preparing your home to sell and moving to a new one can be daunting and stir up a lot of emotions. But selling your home doesn’t have to be stressful; here are a few tips to help make it easier.

Involve your agent early

The earlier you involve your Windermere Real Estate agent, the better they can set you up for success. When you reach out to them, they’ll be able to evaluate your home with their expert opinion based on their experience, and determine what needs to be done.

You and your agent will come up with a plan and timeline that works for you. After they do a comparative market analysis, they’ll have a good idea of what it will take to get the best price for your home. They may suggest you move out so the home can be professionally staged and easily accessed by potential buyers, or if that’s not an option, they will provide insights on what you can do yourself so you can live there while it’s on the market.

They may also see opportunities that are easy to implement, like improving the landscaping for curb appeal or minor projects that can increase your home value.

Get an inspection & make necessary repairs

Some sellers may be concerned that their property isn’t in the best condition and that this will impact their home’s value. While some repairs may need to be done before putting your home on the market, you might be surprised that you don’t have to fix everything.

By getting a pre-inspection you’ll know what all needs to be done right away and what can wait. Your Windermere agent will be able to help you understand the inspection report and make decisions based on the condition of your home and the current market. Some repairs will be more important than others, things like a new roof or water heater can help new buyers feel more comfortable in their purchase while a trending remodel may interfere with the buyers own plans for the space.

Split up the selling process into approachable pieces

Once you have a vision for everything that you need to do to get your home prepared to sell, it’s a good idea to split the full project into smaller pieces that you can tackle one by one. You’ll want to determine what needs to be done first, like an inspection or small remodel, and what items can be done at the same time, like moving out and staging. If you take this approach, the final preparations will feel less overwhelming.

When you prepare well ahead of time, the actual process of selling will be less overwhelming, and you’ll have the confidence that you’ve done everything you can to make the most of the investment you put into your home.

Then comes packing and moving, but don’t worry, we have some tips to make that easier too, read here.

Design • February 3, 2026

What Is Foursquare Architecture? A Guide to Prairie Box Homes

by Don Koonce

If you’ve ever walked through an older neighborhood and felt drawn to a home that looks balanced, practical, and quietly confident, you were likely looking at an American Foursquare. Sometimes called a Prairie Box or Prairie Cube, this architectural style is one of the most straightforward designs in the American architectural tradition, and one of the most enduring.

Popular from the late 1890s through the 1920s, the Foursquare emerged during a time when ornate Victorian homes dominated the landscape. In contrast, these homes favored simplicity, efficiency, and sold craftsmanship. Influenced by the Prairie and Arts and Crafts movements, the Foursquare prioritized thoughtful design over decoration, making it both practical and approachable.

A Shape That Works

True to its name, the Foursquare is defined by its box-style construction. The home’s nearly square footprint creates a symmetrical form, with rooms occupying each quadrant. Most Foursquares are two to two-and-a-half stories tall, with the half story tucked into a spacious attic. This efficient layout was intentionally designed to make the most of smaller lot sizes while still providing generous living space.

Rooflines, Porches, and Presence

A low-pitched hipped roof is one of the most recognizable features of a Foursquare home. The roof slopes evenly on all four sides, often forming a pyramid shape, and is frequently paired with a central dormer window that brings light and air into the attic level.

Many Foursquares also feature a covered front porch—sometimes spanning the full width of the home—supported by simple columns. These porches extend the living space outdoors and give a home a welcoming, grounded presence on the street.

Materials and Details

Building materials for Foursquare homes vary by region, with brick and wood being the most common. While the exterior design remains restrained, later models often incorporate Arts and Crafts details, especially inside the home. Built-in shelves, benches, bookcases, and window seats add warmth and function without excess ornamentation.

Inside the Foursquare

The interior layout reflects the same efficiency seen on the exterior. Traditionally, the main floor contains shared living spaces such as the living room, dining room, kitchen, and entryway, while bedrooms are located on the second floor. Hallways are minimal, and because each room typically sits at a corner of the home, natural light enters from multiple directions, a detail that homeowners still appreciate today.

Why Foursquare Homes Still Matter

More than a century later, American Foursquare homes remain highly desirable for their smart layouts, timeless proportions, and understated character. They’re homes designed to work well, on their lots, in their neighborhoods, and in everyday life. That kind of thoughtful simplicity never goes out of style.

Buyers • January 29, 2026

The Top Questions Every Buyer Should Ask Their Real Estate Agent

by Don Koonce

Buying a home is a major milestone, and it comes with a lot of decisions, details, and moving parts. While online searches and market headlines can offer helpful context, there’s no substitute for having a knowledgeable real estate professional by your side.

The right agent does more than show homes. They help you understand the market, weigh opportunities, and make informed choices at every stage of the process. Asking thoughtful questions early on can set the tone for a smoother, more confident homebuying experience.

Here are some of the most important questions every buyer should ask their real estate agent, and why they matter.

Ask Them About Themselves

Choosing a real estate agent is about more than credentials and experience; it’s also about fit. Before deciding who to work with, take time to get to know your agent as a person.

Ask them about their background, how they work, and what drew them to real estate. Having an agent with a similar communication style, lifestyle, or understanding of your priorities makes the process feel more comfortable and collaborative. At the end of the day, this is someone you’ll be working closely with during one of the most important life decisions, so feeling aligned and understood matters.

What Services Do You Provide Me as My Agent?

Real estate agents offer a wide range of services, and not all approaches look the same. That’s why it’s essential to understand exactly how an agent will support you throughout the buying process.

Ask what services they provide from start to finish–such as market research, property tours, negotiation, inspection, and coordination through closing. You may also want to ask what tools or resources they use, and how involved they are at each stage.

In addition, it’s helpful to ask whether your agent can recommend trusted service providers—such as lenders, inspectors, contractors, or other professionals who can assist with financing, repairs, and other tasks that come up before closing. Having access to a reliable network can help streamline the process and reduce stress.

What’s Happening in the Market Right Now?

Real estate markets are constantly evolving, and what’s happening nationally doesn’t always reflect what’s happening locally. Ask your agent:

How is the market performing in the areas I’m considering?
Are homes selling quickly, or are buyers taking more time to decide?
What trends should I be aware of at my price point?
What strategies are working well for buyers right now?

A strong agent will provide local insight and context, helping you understand not just the numbers, but what they mean for you as a buyer.

How Should I Prepare Financially Before I Start Making Offers?

Being financially prepared goes well beyond getting pre-approved. While your lender will guide you through financing specifics, your real estate agent plays a key role in helping you understand how those details shape your overall buying strategy.

Your agent should help you think through what sellers are typically looking for in an offer, how loan terms, contingencies, and timelines can influence negotiations, and how to plan for additional costs before, during, and after the purchase.

What Should I Prioritize and Where Can I Be Flexible?

Most buyers begin their search with a list of wants and needs, but flexibility can often open the door to better opportunities.

A knowledgeable agent can help you identify which features are essential and which are optional, understand how factors like location, layout, and condition affect a home’s value, and balance your lifestyle preferences with long-term considerations. An experienced agent brings perspective, helping you see the bigger picture while keeping your goals front and center throughout the process.

What’s Your Approach to Pricing and Making an Offer?

Every offer should be strategic and tailored to the situation. Your agent should be able to clearly explain how they evaluate pricing and market value, what factors influence offer terms beyond price, and how inspections, contingencies, and timing play a role in negotiations.

Having this conversation early helps ensure you’re aligned and confident when it’s time to move forward, with a clear understanding of how your agent will advocate for you in a competitive and nuanced market.

How Will We Communicate Throughout the Process?

Clear communication is essential during a home purchase. Be sure to ask:

How often can I expect updates?
What’s the best way to reach you with questions?
How do you handle time-sensitive situations?

You should also ask what will be included in your written buyer agreement so you can have a clear understanding of roles and responsibilities. The right agent will set expectations early and make sure you feel informed and supported at every stage, from start to finish.

What Should I Know About a Home Before Making a Decision?

Once you’ve found a home you’re excited about, your agent’s guidance becomes even more important. They should help you understand:

How the home compares to similar properties.
What to expect during inspections.
Any potential considerations that could impact your decision.

This step isn’t about creating doubt; it’s about ensuring clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

SOLD • January 27, 2026

SOLD: Historic Craftsman on Large View Lot

by Don Koonce

9733 Arrowsmith Avenue S
Seattle, WA 98118
$899,000

MLS #2432931
CLIP #4024769488
Beds: 5
Baths: 4
Size: 2,740 sqft
Days on OneHome: 108

Rare opportunity! Historic Craftsman on large estate lot with Lake WA views in prime Upper Rainier Beach neighborhood. Platted in 1891 by Charles Waters, these quiet sylvan lots are coveted for their views and privacy, designed as park-like blocks with towering evergreens. This is an elegant showcase of quality 1900’s finishes, built for posh living and entertaining. Soaring ceilings, rich hardwoods, boxed-beamed ceilings, wainscoting-all orig. millwork. Palatial living spaces, formal dining+ butler’s pantry, cheerful garden room, skylights, lots of decks / lush gardens / patios. 5 bedrooms / 4 baths, 2 kitchens, finished MIL apartment, gas heat, A/C. Stroll to favorite coffee shops, eateries, parks & rec; close to Lite Rail. A great beginning for your own legacy.

Sellers • January 22, 2026

Refinance or Sell? Making the Right Move for Your Home

by Don Koonce

Homeownership isn’t a one-size-fits-all, and neither are the financial decisions that come with it. At some point, many homeowners reach a familiar fork in the road: Should I refinance my mortgage, or is it time to sell?

The right answer depends on a mix of factors, including your financial health, today’s interest rate environment, your home’s equity, and where you see yourself and your household in the next few years. Let’s walk through both options so you can decide what makes the most sense for you, not just on paper, but in real life.

Refinancing vs. Selling

If your current mortgage no longer feels like the right fit, you generally have two paths forward: refinancing or selling. Refinancing your home allows you to renegotiate the terms of your existing loan, potentially changing your interest rate, loan term, or monthly payment. Selling, on the other hand, can free up equity and open the door to your next chapter. So, how do you decide between the two? The key is to understand what each one offers and what it requires so you can move forward with confidence.

Refinancing Your Home

There are a few reasons homeowners typically refinance their mortgages, the most common being falling interest rates. Lower interest rates after a mortgage reassessment translate into lower monthly payments and significant savings over the life of the loan. If your finances have improved since you initially secured your mortgage—for example, your debt-to-income ratio has improved, or you’ve bumped up your credit score—you may be able to lock in a better rate with your lender. Refinancing your home could also put cash in your pocket. “Cash-out refinancing” allows you to accept a mortgage for more than your principal balance and use the extra money at your discretion. Typically, homeowners will use such funds for significant expenses, such as a major renovation or home improvement project.

Homeowners with Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs) often refinance into a Fixed-Rate Mortgage to lock in a stable rate for the remainder of the loan term.

Refinancing can also change the length of your loan. Moving from a 30-year mortgage to a 15-year term may reduce the total interest you pay over time, while extending a loan term can lower monthly payments if cash flow is a concern. As with most financial decisions, it’s about balance and knowing the tradeoffs.

Keep in mind that refinancing your home involves getting a new mortgage, so you’ll have to go through the qualification process again. Assess your financial health and equity before you apply. Once you’re ready to move forward, your Windermere agent can recommend a few trusted lenders or mortgage brokers to provide you with a quote.

Selling Your Home

Selling your home is a bigger shift—but sometimes it’s the right one. If your home no longer fits your lifestyle, or if you’re sitting on significant equity, selling can provide financial flexibility to move forward on your terms. Your agent will start by conducting a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to determine your home’s value, taking into account current market conditions, location, seasonality, and your home’s unique features.

Although you stand to receive a lump-sum cash payment, selling your home comes with its own set of costs. Paying for repairs, home inspections, staging expenses, agent commissions, not to mention buying or renting your next home, as well as moving fees. This can add up, so it’s important to budget appropriately. Selling your home also means you’ll be uprooting the life you and your household have established there, so it’s necessary to have a plan for your next steps before the “For Sale” sign goes in the ground.