Events August 20, 2020

SAVE THE DATE: FREE Recycling & Paper Shredding Event

From DonRestaurant Reviews August 17, 2020

RESTAURANT REVIEW: The Matador in Ballard

Alan and I have been going to The Matador for a few years and have always enjoyed the happy hour.

It’s a great bargain featuring Romaine Wedge, Tortilla Chicken Soup, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Black Bean Dip, and Grande Nachos for $5 each. They also have Street Tacos (three for $5).

We usually make a meal of the happy hour and share several of the items. They have a great selection of drinks and their Margaritas are double pours.

(more…)

HomeownershipInterior Design August 10, 2020

Setting Up Your Home Gym

As the stay-at-home hours add up, setting up a home gym is not only physically beneficial, but can bring some added mental wellness to the new normal many of us find ourselves in. In comparison to a gym membership, even with the up-front investment of purchasing equipment, an at-home gym can deliver savings in the long run. With far-ranging fitness gear options online, there are more ways to save than ever before.

Location, location, location

Before the lunges, push-ups, and weightlifting, the first step in setting up your at-home gym is deciding where to build it. You’ll want plenty of room for the activities and workouts you have in mind. Rooms with low ceilings or narrow walls are not well-suited for a gym. They will limit your ability to perform any kinds of jumping exercises or workouts with wide ranging movements. This space is dedicated to physical activity and the environment should support that. If extra space is hard to come by in your home, consider taking your gym outdoors to a patio, multipurpose space, or other less commonly used area.

(more…)

Real Estate News & Information August 3, 2020

Western Washington Real Estate Market Update

The following analysis of the Western Washington real estate market is provided by Windermere Real Estate Chief Economist Matthew Gardner. We hope that this information may assist you with making better-informed real estate decisions. For further information about the housing market in your area, please don’t hesitate to contact your Windermere agent.

(more…)

Real Estate News & Information July 27, 2020

Matthew Gardner Weekly COVID-19 Housing & Economic Update: 7/27/2020

SOLD July 22, 2020

Sold this Month: Five South Sound Homes

I’m honored to have helped FIVE families make their dreams come true this month. Congratulations, everyone!

10715 SE 187th Place
Renton, WA 98055

Listing Price $680,000
Selling Price $680,000

Sophisticated design inside and out, vaulted ceilings, tall windows, hi-end quartz and stone tile kitchen, walk-in pantry, Luxury VP floors, main floor bed/bath.Open stair railings lead to huge loft,  four bedrooms, master suite with soaring ceilings, tile bath, cedar-lined closet. Beautiful outdoor living, covered deck, A/C, amazing 640+garage.

(more…)

From DonRestaurant Reviews July 15, 2020

RESTAURANT REVIEW: Columbia City Ale House

We have been going to Columbia City Ale House almost every Friday since they opened more than 20 years ago. It’s our “Cheers,” where all the servers know our name, we know theirs, and our drinks show up shortly after we arrive without a word.

We started the tradition because we like to eat out on Friday nights after a long work week. Before we made CCAH a tradition, we would ask one another every Friday, “Where do you want to eat?” Then it was the back and forth trying to decide.

We finally chose the Ale House as our permanent go-to spot because they have rotating specials that we usually choose, and if we aren’t into the specials, they have some menu staples that we love. They also have rotating beers, ciders and wine.

(more…)

BuyersHomeownership July 8, 2020

Buying with Your Pets in Mind

For many of us, pets play a central role in our home life, so taking into account what is best for them when buying a home is important for both their happiness and that of your entire household.

Your neighborhood

When looking for homes that are well suited to both you and your furry companion, consider the area surrounding the home. If your pet is an indoor/outdoor animal, it’s important to examine the hustle and bustle of the neighborhood. If your pet spends time outside, a busy neighborhood could be dangerous, and depending on the level of traffic, he or she may need to be on a leash at all times.

How conducive is the neighborhood for taking your pet on walks? If you frequently walk your pet, look for neighborhoods with sidewalks. If your pet enjoys being off-leash, consider prioritizing homes with green belts, parks, trails, or designated off-leash areas nearby. It’s also a good idea to identify where the local emergency pet centers and veterinarian clinics are to insure there is sufficient medical care for your pet in proximity to where you live.

(more…)

Homeownership July 1, 2020

DIY Home Projects

In recent months, homes have taken on additional roles as offices, schools, and places of entertainment as staying at home has become the norm. With the extra time spent inside and the additional wear and tear on your home, this is a perfect time for those Do-It-Yourself projects you’ve been wanting to get done.

Before getting out the power tools, take time to consider the projects you have in mind. If you’re questioning how the renovations will affect resale value, consult an expert, like your Windermere agent. Assess your budget to see if certain projects should be prioritized over others, or if you have the financial capacity for only one or two projects at this time.

Here are a few ideas:

(more…)

Real Estate News & Information June 29, 2020

Matthew Gardner Weekly COVID-19 Housing & Economic Update: 6/29/2020