EYE ON THE MARKET
As we move closer to spring, experts predict we can anticipate a market that may not boom, but will bloom more gradually this year. Buyers and sellers that were in a holding pattern waiting for winter to end are finding a way to get into a good position for the coming season. Buyers are using this time to ensure any pre-purchase tasks are done, shore up finances and gather moving and relocation resources to ensure they are ready to act at a moment’s notice. Sellers, facing fierce competition for the attention of buyers braving the market, are contending with inventory increasing in most areas. To get noticed, sellers are exploring their options for making their property stand apart from the rest. Brokers report sellers are accomplishing this by completing necessary improvements and making sure their property is properly priced for the market.
Most recent NWMLS stats for median closed sale prices for single-family homes show a mildly mixed picture in our region. In King County up by 1.85%, in Snohomish County unchanged, in Pierce County down almost 3%, and up in Thurston County by 3.22%. In Spokane County prices are up 2.5% (Spokane Association of Realtors).
Rising interest rates may have caused some buyers to hit the pause button on their search at the end of 2022 as communities on their wish list became out of reach. Brokers report buyers who take time to rethink their needs, timing, budget and other factors affecting their anticipated home purchase, are finding more selection and properties that meet or exceed their expectations. It will be interesting to see how the many factors influencing our market will play out this spring.
FOCAL POINT: light fixtures
The centerpiece of a room is often the light fixture. Having a statement light fixture draws your eyes up and can make a room feel taller. Elevate your space with a focal light fixture that makes a statement.
• If you are adding a large, low hanging chandelier, make sure you have enough head space or that your table or island is large enough that no one will bump their head.
• For lower ceilings use a fixture that does not hang but goes out horizontally.
• Put dimmers on your focal light fixture (or all light fixtures) to add ambiance to the room while still showcasing your focal fixture.
• Pendant lights are great for over a kitchen island or peninsula or add a dramatic chandelier over your island for a wow factor.
• If you already have a focal light fixture you love, give it new life with a good cleaning, fresh bulbs, updated shades or a coat of paint.
• Add accent lighting such as recessed lights or indirect lighting to reflect off of your focal fixture and make it shine.
• Have fun with your lighting! Light fixtures not only serve to illuminate the room but can be an artistic focal point.
CHASE THE GRAY DAYS AWAY WITH LIGHT
Fight gloomy days with these ideas to pump up the brightness of your home
• Paint the interior white to give it a brighter feel and reflect light
• Wash the windows. Sometimes we get used to foggy, dirty windows but your home will feel brighter when they are clear and clean.
• Use high wattage bulbs for optimum brightness.
• Add mirrors or shiny objects to make your home feel bigger and reflect light
• Put lamps of various shapes and sizes around your home to add warmth.
• Glossy, white tiles or slab stone in your kitchen, bathroom or laundry room will not only brighten your home with white but they also reflect light.
• Choose a flooring with a polished, reflective finish to enhance the light.
• Use various types of light fixtures including recessed lights, sconces, pendant lights, chandeliers, and lamps.
• Hang window treatments 5-7in above the window so they do not cover the window when open and make it appear bigger. Use light colored window treatments as dark heavy drapes can make a space feel darker and smaller.
EXPERIENCE THIS!
February 1-28
RED WINE & CHOCOLATE lakechelanwinevalley.com
February 2
LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL washingtoncenter.com
February 2-4 75 YEAR ANNIVERSARY: FOLLIES SHOW numericapac.org
February 3 SEATTLE BOAT SHOW seattleboatshow.com
February 11 WHEELS AND REELS WINTER DRIVE IN MOVIE explorekirkland.com
February 11 SUMNER SIP & STROLL 2023 sumnermainstreet.com
February 12 MY BETTER HALF MARATHON orcarunning.com
February 16 LILAC CITY LIVE spokanelibrary.org/lilaccitylive
IMPORTANT DATES
Thursday, February 2nd
Groundhog Day
Sunday, February 12th
Superbowl Sunday
Tuesday, February 14th
Valentine’s Day
Monday, February 20th
President’s Day
CW Title and Counties Closed
February 18
6TH ANNUAL WINTER BEER FESTIVAL mcmenamins.com