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All About Washington Real Estate

By Kevin Hancock, The Hancock Team at Sammamish Mortgage
Already have a VA Loan? You may still qualify to buy another home. VA Bonus Entitlement allows eligible veterans to use their VA loan benefit again in certain situations - even if they already have an active VA-backed mortgage. Learn how it works and what it could mean for your next home purchase:https://www.kevinhancockmortgage.com/va-bonus-entitlement/ #VALoan #Veterans #HomeBuying #MortgageTips
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
What are Mukilteo's micro-neighborhoods, and which one is right for you?Mukilteo may be a relatively small waterfront city, but it offers a surprising variety of distinct micro-neighborhoods. Each area has its own personality, housing styles, amenities, views, and lifestyle advantages. Whether you're looking for walkability, waterfront living, luxury estates, golf-course communities, or quiet residential streets, understanding these neighborhoods can help you find a home that truly fits your lifestyle.Micro-Neighborhood #1: Old Town MukilteoIf Mukilteo has a heart, it's Old Town.This is the neighborhood many people picture when they imagine life here.Historic homes overlook Possession Sound while ferries travel between Mukilteo and Whidbey Island. Residents enjoy walkable streets, local...
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
Amenities Today's Bothell Buyers PrioritizeWhat amenities are today's Bothell homebuyers prioritizing, and which features add the most value when buying or selling a home? Today's Bothell buyers are looking beyond square footage. They increasingly prioritize flexible living spaces, updated kitchens, energy-efficient systems, smart home technology, outdoor entertaining areas, reliable high-speed internet, and proximity to parks, schools, and employment centers.1. Flexible Home Offices Continue to Be a Must-HaveRemote and hybrid work have permanently changed how buyers evaluate homes.Rather than simply counting bedrooms, many shoppers ask whether a home offers a dedicated workspace with: Natural light Quiet surroundings High-speed internet capability Built-in storage Separation from livin...
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
What Is the Typical Timeline to Sell a Home in Bothell, Washington?Most Bothell homeowners should expect the selling process, from preparing the property through closing, to take approximately six to twelve weeks, although every transaction is unique. Preparation often requires one to three weeks, marketing and showings may last from a few days to several weeks depending on pricing and condition, and closing typically takes another 30-45 days after an offer is accepted. Current Bothell market data indicates that many homes are attracting buyers relatively quickly when priced and presented appropriately, but luxury homes and unique properties may require a more customized marketing strategy.Week 1: Meet with a Local Bothell Real Estate ExpertEvery successful sale begins long before the "...
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
What is it like to live in Bothell, Washington?Bothell, Washington offers residents a balance of outdoor recreation, walkable urban amenities, established neighborhoods, and convenient access to Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, and Everett. Located across both King and Snohomish counties, Bothell has evolved into one of the Eastside's most desirable communities thanks to its revitalized downtown, extensive trail system, highly connected location, growing employment base, and vibrant local dining scene. Whether you're relocating for work, looking for more space, or searching for a community with a welcoming atmosphere, Bothell delivers a lifestyle that appeals to a wide variety of homebuyers.Lifestyle Guide to Bothell: A Community That Blends Nature, Convenience, and Modern LivingSome communi...
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
What Is It Like Living in Mukilteo, Washington?If you're looking for a community that combines breathtaking Puget Sound views, excellent outdoor recreation, convenient commuting options, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere, Mukilteo, Washington, deserves a place at the top of your list. From luxury waterfront homes and established neighborhoods to highly regarded schools and easy ferry access to Whidbey Island, Mukilteo offers a lifestyle that appeals to professionals, families, retirees, and anyone who values both natural beauty and accessibility. The city is also shaping its future through an ambitious waterfront redevelopment vision focused on walkability, recreation, dining, and community gathering spaces.Why So Many Buyers Are Choosing MukilteoNestled along the shores of Possessi...
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By Cari McGee
(RE/MAX Northwest)
If you ask 10 people that question, you'll probably get 10 different answers. But before we can talk about what one costs, we have to define it. In 2025, Realtor.com said a starter home is one that's priced in the lowest 25th percentile of available homes. This year, Zillow used the lowest 33rd percentile.So for the purposes of this article, we'll use price, too. And we'll stick with the more recent qualifier: homes priced in the lowest 33rd percentile. Starter Home Prices in the Tri-CitiesThe typical starter home in the Tri-Cities costs about $375,000 as of June 2026. But most first-time home buyers will find that expected costs will depend on what they want and need from their first home. The good news is that the inventory of homes for sale is high right now, so there are a lot of ho...
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
What Are the Best Washington State Parks?Washington State Parks offer something for everyone, from dramatic coastal cliffs and lush rainforests to alpine peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and scenic campgrounds. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or considering relocating to the Pacific Northwest, these parks showcase why Washington consistently ranks among the nation's premier outdoor destinations.Experience the Natural Beauty of Washington StateWashington isn't just known for Seattle's skyline or the Cascade Mountains. The state is home to more than 140 state parks, marine parks, trails, historic sites, and recreation areas, providing countless opportunities to explore diverse landscapes throughout the year.Whether you enjoy hiking, kayaking, wildlife photography, boating, camping, f...
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
Would today's luxury buyers rather own a smaller home in an exceptional location or a massive estate farther away? For many affluent buyers, location has become the ultimate luxury. While expansive estates continue to attract interest, today's luxury purchasers increasingly prioritize walkability, waterfront access, privacy, prestigious neighborhoods, convenience, lifestyle amenities, and long-term value over simply owning the largest house on the block. Recent luxury market reports also show continued demand for larger homes, but buyers increasingly expect those larger homes to be in exceptional locations and designed to support modern lifestyles.Location Has Always Been Important, Now It's Becoming EssentialReal estate's oldest rule remains remarkably accurate:Location. Location. Loca...
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
What Makes Lake Sammamish State Park One of the Best Parks Near Seattle?Located in Issaquah at the southern end of beautiful Lake Sammamish, Lake Sammamish State Park is one of Washington's most visited outdoor destinations. With sandy beaches, boating, kayaking, hiking trails, wildlife, family recreation, and convenient access to Bellevue, Redmond, and Seattle, it's one of the Eastside's greatest lifestyle amenities.Boating on Lake SammamishLake Sammamish is one of western Washington's most popular freshwater boating destinations. The state park provides a convenient public boat launch, making it easy for residents and visitors to access the lake for a variety of water activities. The Washington State Parks system maintains boating facilities and seasonal services to support safe recre...
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
Should you renovate your luxury home before selling, or can expensive remodeling actually reduce your return on investment? Many luxury homeowners assume that major renovations automatically translate into higher offers. In reality, strategic preparation often delivers a stronger financial outcome than extensive remodeling. While certain updates improve marketability, many high-end renovations recover only a portion of their cost and may delay your listing, narrow your buyer pool, or reflect design choices that don't align with buyer preferences. According to the 2025 Cost vs. Value Report, selective improvements frequently outperform large-scale luxury remodels in terms of resale return. (Source: Jlconlinejlconline.com/cost-vs-value/2025) Why Luxury Sellers Often Overspend Before Listi...
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
The Question Every Buyer Should Be AskingShould you keep waiting for lower mortgage rates, or is waiting costing you more than you realize?For the past few years, mortgage interest rates have dominated conversations about real estate. News headlines, social media, and financial experts have all focused on one question: When will rates come down?It's an important question. Mortgage rates directly affect monthly payments and affordability.But there's another number that deserves just as much attention, and it often gets overlooked.Rental rates.While many prospective buyers have been waiting for interest rates to decline, millions have continued paying rent month after month. In many markets, rents rose sharply following the pandemic and remain significantly higher than they were just a fe...
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
Luxury Real Estate Marketing | Luxury Home Selling Strategy | Luxury Buyer ExperienceHow can luxury home sellers create a five-star buyer experience that attracts affluent buyers, generates stronger offers, and helps luxury properties stand out in a competitive market?Luxury homes don't simply sell because they are expensive or beautiful. They sell because they deliver an exceptional experience. Today's affluent buyers expect the same level of service, attention to detail, personalization, and convenience they receive from luxury hotels, private clubs, and premium brands. Sellers who embrace what many industry professionals call the "Concierge Effect" often position their homes more effectively, create stronger emotional connections, and generate greater buyer interest.Understanding the...
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
Luxury Real Estate Trends 2026 | Insights for Luxury Home Sellers and BuyersWhich luxury home amenities are losing appeal among affluent buyers, and what features are replacing them in today's luxury real estate market? Luxury real estate is evolving. Features that once symbolized wealth, oversized wine cellars, formal living rooms, excessive square footage, all-white interiors, and single-purpose entertainment spaces, are increasingly being replaced by wellness-focused amenities, flexible living areas, sustainability upgrades, sophisticated technology, and lifestyle-driven design. Today's luxury buyers are prioritizing function, wellness, personalization, and long-term value over excess for excess's sake.1. Oversized Wine Cellars Are Losing Their PrestigeFor decades, an expansive wine ...
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
What is it really like to live in Issaquah, Washington, and is Issaquah a good place to buy a home? Located approximately 16 miles east of Seattle, Issaquah offers a unique combination of mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, strong community identity, highly regarded schools, thriving local businesses, and convenient access to major employment centers throughout the Eastside. For many buyers seeking a balance between urban convenience and Pacific Northwest lifestyle, Issaquah consistently ranks among the most attractive communities in King County.Why More Homebuyers Are Choosing Issaquah, WashingtonWhen people begin searching for homes on Seattle's Eastside, they often focus on Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, or Sammamish. Yet many buyers eventually discover a community that offers someth...
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Thinking About Living in Kirkland, WA? Here's What You Need to KnowKirkland, Washington is one of the most desirable cities on Seattle's Eastside, offering a rare combination of waterfront living, walkable neighborhoods, thriving local businesses, excellent access to major employment centers, abundant parks, and a strong sense of community. Located along the eastern shore of Lake Washington, Kirkland attracts professionals, executives, entrepreneurs, families, and luxury homebuyers seeking a lifestyle that blends urban convenience with natural beauty.Why So Many Buyers Are Choosing KirklandIf you're relocating to the Seattle area or considering a move within the Eastside market, Kirkland consistently ranks among the most sought-after communities for good reason.Unlike many suburban citi...
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By Kevin Hancock, The Hancock Team at Sammamish Mortgage
Can you buy a home with a non-spouse using a VA loan?Many veterans in Kitsap County are surprised to learn that VA loans may be used with an unmarried partner, parent, sibling, or other non-spouse co-borrower. However, VA joint loans have unique rules regarding entitlement, ownership, and potential down payment requirements.Learn how VA joint loans work, who qualifies, and what buyers in Bremerton, Silverdale, Port Orchard, and surrounding Kitsap County communities should know before applying.Ready to explore your options? Contact Kevin Hancock for a personalized VA loan review and VA loan pre-approval.📍 Serving Bremerton, Silverdale, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, and all of Kitsap County📖 Read the full article: https://www.kevinhancockmortgage.com/va-loan-non-spouse-co-borrower-kitsap/#VALoan...
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
Extensively Updated Wilderness Rim Home Near Rattlesnake Lake and Endless Outdoor AdventureListed by Marie-Noelle Metseye, Luxury Realtor®Property Snapshot Offered at: $750,000 MLS #: 2541603 3 Bedrooms 1.5 Bathrooms 1,440 Square Feet 10,080 SF Lot Built in 1980 Attached 2-Car Garage Wilderness Rim Community Pre-Inspected Move-In Ready What Makes 42723 SE 175th Place One of North Bend's Most Attractive Move-In Ready Homes?This extensively updated Wilderness Rim home combines modern improvements, mountain-community living, and immediate access to some of Washington's most celebrated outdoor recreation areas. With new flooring, fresh paint, updated bathrooms, new kitchen appliances, a spacious entertaining deck, community amenities, and proximity to Rattlesnake Lake and the Snoqualmie Val...
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By April Swenson, CRS and Managing Broker - Ocean Shores Real Estate
(Coldwell Banker Ocean Shores Brokers)
OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATEJust SoldSOLD 6/22/26: Park Place unit 1S-Week I, #OceanShores, WA.This is a 5 week/year Deeded Share Timeshare located on the Ocean near the Jetty with 2 BD, 1.75 BA, 950 sq.ft., and lovely Ocean and Jetty views for this ground floor, south-side unit.Sold for $2,000 cash.Congratulations to my Seller, and to my Buyers, who are excited to enjoy this timeshare. :-)
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By Marie-Noelle Metseye, Reward Trust with Excellence
(RE/MAX Northwest)
The Hidden Mistakes That Turn Dream Properties Into Expensive LessonsWhat are the biggest regrets wealthy buyers have after purchasing a luxury home, and how can you avoid making the same costly mistakes?The most common luxury home buyer regrets have little to do with the home's beauty or prestige. Instead, they stem from underestimating maintenance costs, choosing the wrong location, overlooking privacy concerns, buying based on emotion rather than lifestyle needs, and failing to evaluate long-term ownership expenses. The good news is that nearly all of these mistakes can be avoided with proper planning and expert guidance. Regret #1: Falling in Love With the Property Before Evaluating the LifestyleLuxury buyers often become captivated by extraordinary features: Panoramic water views A...
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Washington Real Estate Agents and Real Estate Professionals