Pacific Northwest Holiday Adventures

4 Things To Do During The Holiday Season

Now that December is here it is time to enjoy and appreciate some of the fun things to do during this holiday season. I have personally hand selected some of my favorite Pacific Northwest holiday outings that I think you will enjoy.

Here they are:

1. Trinity Tree Farm - Issaquah

Trinity Tree Farm is a local Christmas tree farm where you can have the holiday experience of cutting down your very own douglas fir.  Not sure if you want to engage in all of that hard work?  Don't worry, Trinity Tree Farm has a variety of freshly cut trees waiting for you!  Sip on delicious hot chocolate, cozy up by the warm fire, or say "cheese" while you get your picture taken with Santa.  There is no chance you will not love this holiday experience.  

*Small Tip:  The weekends are very busy, so try to go during the week to beat the crowds.

Check out:  Trinity Tree Farm

2. Zoo Lights - Tacoma

The kids love this one so be sure to bring the entire family! The tickets are inexpensive, parking is free, and you will be supporting a fantastic cause. Bundle up and enjoy the 3-D animal light displays, be adventurous and ride the carousel, and light up your hearts with the zoo's latest tiger cubs who will be on display "Berani" and "Dumai."

*Small Tip: Buy a combo pass if you are bringing multiple family members.

Check Out: Zoo Lights


3. Redmond Lights - Redmond

This is a celebration of the many different holidays and traditions, and it is a one of a kind educational experience you will not want to miss. Slowly stroll down Redmond Central and find yourself at the Luminary Walk, listen to live music and carolers, all while witnessing a beautiful tree lighting.

*Small Tip: Check the website before you leave for parking instructions.

Check Out: Remond Lights


4. Seattle Christmas Ship Festival

This is a classic Seattle Christmas tradition you will not want to miss. Sail around on the Argosy Cruise while listening to the onboard choirs singing Christmas carols broadcasting over a state of the art speaker system. The best part of all is that people bring their own boats all lit up for the celebration and follow suit for a wonderful parade along the Puget Sound.

*Small Tip: Book tickets well in advance because this one is popular, and they do sell out!

Check Out: Seattle Christmas Ship Festival

Happy Holidays!

Do's and Don'ts of Real Estate

Three Essential Buyer's Tips for a Smooth and Successful Close

Buying a home can be an emotional process, and having a plan that includes respect, patience and good communication can help ease those highly charged emotions and ultimately help you accomplish your goal of home ownership.

Here are three quick buyer’s tips that are proven to keep your transaction as smooth as possible:

1.  Be Respectful of Time

Selling a home isn’t easy and it’s important as a buyer to be respectful of the stress that selling a home can put on a family. Do your best to always be on time to showings, inspections, walk-throughs etc.

Quick Tip: Putting yourself in the seller’s shoes throughout the process is a good way to help keep emotions calm, cool and collected.

2.  Keep Your Eye on the Prize 

Home ownership can be a huge step towards financial stability, and finding the right home in the right community can help to provide a great life for you and your family. Once you’ve found “the” home, it’s important to keep your eye on the prize and not let the little things come between you and those new keys.

Time and time again I’ve seen buyers make the mistake of getting too emotionally charged over inconsequential things (i.e. “I will blow this whole thing up if the sellers don’t clean out the gutters.”).  Staying focused on the big picture to help you accomplish your ultimate goal.

Quick Tip:  A good real estate broker should be there for you throughout the entire process. It’s his or her job to help you get through the emotional times and keep you focused on the end goal. Do your research and pick a broker who can stay calm under pressure. 

3.  Do Your Research and Form a Great Team

You will want to hire an experienced broker who has a firm grip on the current market and how to put you in the best position to compete against other buyers. Do your research and ask tons of questions. Choosing the right broker can help you accomplish your goals on time, all while helping to make a stressful transaction a smooth one.

 

You will also want to hire a local and experienced lender, one who knows how to position you financially when it comes to purchasing a home in this competitive market. A good lender will also take the time to sit down and discuss all the available lending options, helping you make the best decision for your financial future.

Lastly, you will need a reputable home inspector to give you peace of mind that you’re purchasing a well-built, safe home. Search for reviews on line and/or ask your broker for recommendations.  

Quick Tip:  Cheapest is not always the best when it comes to choosing the best inspector. Remember, this is one of the biggest investments you will make in your lifetime.