WCB 253 Magazine February 2024

FEBRUARY 2024

Local Real Estate Market Trends Plus...

Important Documents Keep, shred, and where to store

Design Trends

What you’ll see in 2024

Snow Season Where to go

...and more The power of Windermere. The personalized service of Windermere Chambers Bay.

“Every day is a chance to begin again.

Don’t focus on the failures of yesterday, start today with positive thoughts and expectations.”

– Catherine Pulsifer

Local Real Estate Market Trends Plus...

WCB in the Community Hill Day 2024

Interior Design Trends What you’ll see in 2024

Snow Season Skiing safety and where to go

Tax Tips Your checklist for the year

February Events What's Happening?

Market Updates Optimizing Home Sales

WCB IN THE COMMUNITY! The power of Windermere, the personalized service of Chambers Bay.

Hill Day in Olympia, Washington is an annual event that brings real estate professionals together to advocate for policies that impact the industry and home ownership. This event provides Realtors with a unique opportunity to engage with legislators, voice concerns, and promote initiatives that support a vibrant real estate market. Attendees have the chance to participate in meetings with lawmakers, discussing key issues such as housing affordability, property rights, and regulatory measures. Hill Day not only fosters collaboration among Realtors but also plays a crucial role in shaping the legislative landscape, ensuring that the interests of the real estate community and homeowners are well-represented at the state level. It's a day of advocacy, networking, and collective action that underscores the importance of Realtors' involvement in the policy-making process.

Dreaming big and setting goals! Our agents are channeling their aspirations into vision boards for a successful 2024.

2024 Interior Design Trends

Read the full article

Cozy Spaces Cozy and intimate spaces for activities like reading, watching a small TV, cuddling by the fire, or enjoying some music. Despite the popularity of openplan living, there's a growing realization that not all walls are undesirable, and individuals value having their own personal space.

Metallic Accents Look to add sparkle through textiles, decorative fixtures, plumbing, or lighting.

Historical Influences The 1950s and '60s styles, once popular, are on the decline, as per the 1stDibs trends survey for 2024. Instead, the aesthetics of the 1920s, '30s, and 1970s are gaining traction. Art Deco from the '20s and '30s aligns with the resurgence of metallics, while the 1970s sees the integral return of brown in a bohemian flair.

Shades of Brown The trend is moving away from stark whites and cool grays, with neutrals adopting warmer tones. Look for browns in natural elements such as wood and leather furnishings, but also through paint and wallpaper colors.

More Curves More organic and fluid shapes, from sofas to cocktail tables, lighting, and cabinetry.

Burlwood

Pedestals

With its rich tones and patterns, its the perfect option to add rich character and color to any room. A timeless look that mixes well with any decor.

With pedestals available in various materials, sizes, and price ranges, incorporating this trend becomes effortlessly accessible. Highlight art, a collectible, or use as a plant stand.

Exploring Winter Wonderland: Adventures in the Pacific Northwest As winter blankets the Pacific Northwest in a glistening coat of snow, skiing enthusiasts eagerly prepare for thrilling adventures on the slopes. The region is renowned for its diverse and picturesque ski resorts, offering a wide range of terrains for skiers of all levels. In this article, we dive into the world of skiing in the Pacific Northwest, providing valuable insights, safety tips, and a curated list of must-visit ski destinations within a 6hour drive.

Safety First: Navigating the Slopes with Confidence Before embarking on your skiing escapades, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Here are some essential safety tips to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience: Gear Up: Invest in high-quality skiing equipment, including a well-fitted helmet, goggles, and layers to stay warm in varying weather conditions.

Know Your Limits: Choose slopes that match your skill level. Green runs are beginner-friendly, blue runs offer intermediate challenges, and black runs are for the advanced skiers seeking a more thrilling experience.

Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with the resort's rules and regulations. Be aware of trail signs and communicate with fellow skiers to avoid collisions.

Weather Awareness: Stay informed about weather conditions and forecasts. Dress accordingly, and be prepared for changing weather on the mountain.

And if you aren’t into the adrenaline of skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing invites you to wander through snow-covered trails, immersing yourself in the quiet beauty of the winter landscape. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, snowshoeing offers a serene way to enjoy the season. With numerous trails to choose from, snowshoeing provides a slower-paced yet equally enchanting winter adventure for those who prefer a different kind of exploration.

Top Destinations Within a 6-Hour Drive Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time skier, the region's diverse resorts cater to all, promising unforgettable experiences on the powdery slopes. Stay safe, have fun, and embrace the winter wonderland that awaits you!

Whistler Blackcomb (Whistler, BC - Approx. 4 hours) Renowned as one of the best ski resorts in the world, Whistler Blackcomb offers a vast ski area, stunning alpine scenery, and a vibrant village atmosphere.

Mount Hood Meadows (Mount Hood, Oregon - Approx. 3 hours) Nestled on the slopes of Mount Hood, this resort caters to skiers of all levels. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Cascade Range while tackling diverse terrains.

Stevens Pass Ski Resort (Skykomish, Washington - Approx. 1.5 hours) Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Stevens Pass boasts a variety of runs, terrain parks, and night skiing opportunities.

Crystal Mountain Resort (Enumclaw, Washington - Approx. 2 hours) With the iconic Mount Rainier as a backdrop, Crystal Mountain offers skiers a mix of challenging runs and breathtaking scenery.

Mt. Bachelor (Bend, Oregon - Approx. 4.5 hours): Known for its powdery slopes and extensive terrain, Mt. Bachelor is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders alike.

Beginner Snowshoeing Destinations: Paradise Valley Conservation Area: (Woodenville, Washington - Approx. 1.5 hours) Enjoy the scenic beauty of forests and meadows covered in snow.

Gold Creek Pond Loop: (Snoqualmie Pass, Washington - Approx. 1.5 hours) A short and easy loop trail around a picturesque mountain pond. Perfect for beginners and families, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Crystal Springs Sno-Park: (Enumclaw, Washington - Approx. 1.5 hours) Features flat and groomed trails suitable for beginners. Enjoy the serene winter landscape and the convenience of a designated snow play area.

Tax Tips

Managing Important Documents

Waiting on Spring Optimizing Home Sales in Today's Unprecedented Market It's common knowledge that springtime is the best time to sell a home, but these are unusual times. With more buyers in the market than usual, it's the right time to sell with little competition. However, to get top dollar for your home, make sure it's move-in ready. It's worth noting that 10% of buyers walk away during the inspection process, so be prepared. Consider getting all major repairs done or adjust your price accordingly. A well-staged home, reminiscent of a HGTV show, is more likely to sell. In vacant homes, staging can play a big part in the process, while de-cluttering and light staging can be effective in occupied homes. It's recommended to seek guidance from a trusted real estate broker early on in the process. They can inform you of the current market trends and what's making a difference in the market today. Although buyers are taking their time, they are still interested in making purchases. Don't worry if days on the market are longer, as a more thoughtful buyer is a stronger buyer.

Windermere Chambers Bay

Buying to Selling in this Market

Months of Pending Inventory

New Listings in Pierce County

1.9

881

Even compared to last month

Up 65% compared to last month

Sold values and days on market are holding steady while the number of closings show a seasonal decline. It happens at this time every year.

Who you work with matters.

PIERCE COUNTY STATS

January 2024

Median SOLD Price

515,000 Even Year over Year and month to month

Number of Closed Sales this Month

625 Even compared to last month

Days on Market

26

Up 4 days compared to last month

MUCH LIKE PEOPLE, EVERY MARKET IS UNIQUE. SOME MARKETS HAVE VIEWS, SOME LARGE YARDS. FROM HOMES BUILT AT THE TURN OF THE CENTURY TO NEW CONSTRUCTION, EACH AREA HAS ITS OWN FEATURES AND TYPES OF HOMES.

Real Estate is Local

The Power Of Windermere.

The Personalized Service Of Windermere Chambers Bay.

Who You Work With Matters windermerechambersbay.com Pierce County is a collage of hyper local real estate markets. Windermere Chambers Bay brokers navigate these markets with personal firsthand knowledge of not just your city, but your unique neighborhood. Your street, Your home. Your community. Market knowledge is key. We know what's happening in the market in the moment in the time that matters to you - right now.

The power of Windermere, The personalized service of Chambers Bay @windermere253

@windermerechambersbay

3610 Bridgeport Way W. Suite 7 | University Place, WA 98466 | (253) 565-1121

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