Market Updates March 23, 2017

Rent vs. Own

*The amount of time you need to own your home in order for owning to be a superior financial decision.

With Seattle’s robust job market and high housing costs there has been a lot of talk lately about the cost of living in the Greater Seattle area. In fact, Seattle is now the 5th most expensive city to rent in the country according to a new study from Nested.com. The average monthly rental price for a one bedroom apartment in the city of Seattle is $1,790 according to Zumper.com, up 8.5% year-over-year; and a two bedroom is $2,470, up 6% year-over-year! With rising rental rates, still historically low interest rates, and home prices on the rise, the advantage of buying versus renting has become clear for folks who have a down payment saved, good debt-to-income ratios and strong credit. Currently, the breakeven horizon (the amount of time you need to own your home in order for owning to be a superior financial decision vs. renting) in the Greater Seattle area is 2.4 years according to Zillow research.

An additional study by Nested.com outlines the monthly rental costs for a single person or a family of four, as well as the yearly income required. In Seattle, it costs the average single person $1,288.76 a month to rent, which requires an annual income of $53,328.00. The average family of four costs $2,665.34 for monthly rent, and an annual income of $101,186.48. That is a lot of money one would be paying towards someone else’s investment.

There are several factors to consider that will lead you to make the best decision for your lifestyle and your financial bottom line. One of the biggest factors is interest rates! Currently, the rate for a 30-year fixed, conventional, conforming loan is hovering around 4.25%. That is amazingly and historically low, making the advantage of securing a mortgage huge. What is nice about having a mortgage is that the payment stays the same over the term of the loan. With renting, rates can be increased at any time, and you are paying down someone else’s asset, not your own. Owning gives the homeowner control over their overhead while getting to make their house their home. What is also so great about owning, is that once you have hit the breakeven horizon, every month that ticks away thereafter is building your nest egg in value. The long-term benefits of owning are abundant, including the stability of not being asked to move. These are important factors to consider for everyone, but especially the younger folks who are enjoying the benefits of Seattle’s attractive job market.

Where folks are having to compromise most due to affordability is commute times, and settling in less urban neighborhoods. Worth pointing out, is the average home price in South Snohomish County is 46% less than Seattle Metro – that is a huge savings! Some people, mainly millennials, have not been willing to give up living in the more core urban neighborhoods that have high walk scores and shorter commute times. That should be apt to change as rents are rising fastest in those areas. The advantages of moving out a little further and securing a home will start people on the track of building long term wealth. If you or anyone you know is currently renting and is considering a change, please let me know as I would be happy to get their questions answered to help them make an informed decision.

Windermere Foundation by the Numbers
Every time I sell a home a portion of my commission goes to the Windermere Foundation, which helps support low-income and homeless families and children in our area. The image below depicts some of the organizations that are served. For a more detailed report click here. Thank you for your business and support, which helps provide this opportunity to give back to the communities I serve.
Bring all your sensitive documents to be professionally destroyed on-site by Confidential Data Disposal. Limit 20 file boxes per customer.

We will also be collecting non-perishable food and cash donations to benefit Concern for Neighbors Food Bank.

Saturday, April 22nd, 10am – 2pm.
4211 Alderwood Mall Blvd, Lynnwood 98036

*This is a shredding-only event. Only paper will be accepted – no binders, electronics, or any other items.

Do you want to be “In the Know” in your neighborhood? Sign up for a monthly overview of what’s happening in the zip code(s) of your choice. Neighborhood News is a great tool to stay informed about the home values and activity in your own backyard or to study a new market you may be interested in. Click here to sign up on my website.
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Market Updates March 15, 2017

Demand is High, Inventory Low… Here we Go!

The two graphs here illustrate the amount of homes for sale, the amount of homes that sold, pending sales and new listings over the past two years in King and Snohomish Counties. This gives us a good look at the simple principle of supply and demand. We are currently experiencing one of the strongest Seller’s markets in recent history. A Seller’s market is defined by having three or less months of available inventory. Currently, King and Snohomish counties have only 0.9 months of inventory based on pending sales. This means that if no new homes came to market, we would be sold out of homes in less than a month. What is crazy is that this inventory count is down 30% from the year prior, which was also an extreme Seller’s market!

Snohomish County Stats February 2017Where this particular Seller’s market is unique, is that a decrease in new listings is not creating this environment, but very high buyer demand is. In fact, King County new listings were up 5% over the last year, but so were sales. In Snohomish County new listings were up 7% over last year, but sales were up 11%! Despite the increase in homes coming to market, demand has matched or outpaced, leaving us with the lowest inventory levels ever.

We can thank our local, thriving job market. So much so, that many people from out-of-state are relocating here to be a part of our economy and the quality of life the Greater Seattle area has to offer. We also have poised move-up buyers ready to cash in on their equity and first-timers ready for action. Combine the healthy local economy with strong equity levels and still historically low interest rates, and the audience for homes that come to market is huge!

Multiple offers are very common and prices are increasing. Median price is up complete year over year in King County by 13% and Snohomish County by 10%. This growth in equity has provided home owners the option to make the moves they have been waiting for, such as a move-up, right-size or relocating out of the area for retirement.

These graphs predict that we will see an increase in new listings as we head into the Spring and Summer months, which is needed to meet demand. If you are considering putting your home on the market this year I would advise the sooner the better, as buyers did not hibernate for the winter and will not be worried about flowers blooming in your front yard. Sellers that beat the second quarter increase in listings will enjoy a larger audience due to less competition.

King County Stats February 2017The importance of both buyers and sellers aligning with a knowledgeable, well-researched and responsive broker is paramount. One might think that it is “easy” to sell a house in this market, but how the preparation, exposure, marketing, management of all the communication and negotiations are handled can make or break a seller’s net return on the sale. While market times are short, they are intense! Negotiations are starting as soon as the property hits the market by educating buyers and their brokers on exactly what a seller would like by the time offers are due. The goal is to bring the sellers I work with not only the highest price, but the best-termed offer that I know is going to close.

If you’re a buyer, it is overwhelmingly important that you are aligned with an agent that knows how to win in this market. Terms, negotiations, financial preparation, communication, responsiveness and market knowledge are what set a highly capable selling agent apart, and are required to prevail. While the market for buyers is fierce, we can assure you that with a well thought out and executed plan, we have helped buyers win.

If you have any curiosities or questions regarding the value of your current home or purchase opportunities in today’s market, please contact us. It is my goal to help keep you informed and empower strong decisions.

 

Posted on March 1, 2017 at 11:15 am
Windermere Real Estate North | Category: Local Market Analysis | Tagged , , , , , , , ,
Bothell March 9, 2017

New Construction in Bothell: Developments to Keep Your Eye On

Bothell’s long list of excellent amenities, city conveniences, and central location ensures that it’s a highly desirable place to live. As a result, Bothell is also currently home to a myriad of new developments and new construction!

“There’s lots of new homes in Bothell ranging from $499,000 to over a million,” shares Tonya Tye. And according to Lauren Pulfer and Jen Bowman, in addition to new construction, you can also expect to find a range of entry-level townhomes, split-levels, ramblers, older homes, and homes on lots of land as well.

Here are a couple of new construction developments in Bothell to keep your eye on:

Toscana by Village Life 

Homes range from $900,000 to $1M

Located near Country Village, Toscana is brimming with luxury Craftsman-style homes that offer large floor plans (ranging from 2,832 to 3,860 square feet) and quality, modern finishes. The neighborhood includes 23 homes with 7 floorplans to choose from, and residents get to enjoy sidewalk-lined streets, a community park, a picnic shelter, and Northshore Schools.


Normandie Woods by Sundquist Homes

Homes begin in the $600,000s

Conveniently located near Interstate-5 and 405 and the Mill Creek Town Center, Normandie Woods showcases gorgeous homes that blend classic details and modern elements. There are 54 homes in Normandie Woods, and residents live in the Edmonds School District.


Here are several examples of new construction in Bothell:



Want to keep searching for new construction in Bothell?

We recommend starting your search here!

For more homes in Bothell in a variety of price points, the Bothell search on NewHomeSource.com features several current new construction listings.

Posted on March 2, 2017 at 4:18 pm
Windermere Real Estate North | Category: Bothell
Bothell March 9, 2017

7 Must-Visit Restaurants in Bothell (Plus Happy Hour Tips & Why Locals Love Each One!)

 If you’re looking for a fun date night restaurant or just a laid-back spot to grab some delicious eats, Bothell has got you covered! Home to several dining establishments with mouthwatering menus and some excellent happy hours, Bothell has everything from sushi and Italian to pubs and American breakfasts.

Here are a few restaurants that come highly recommended by locals:

Alexa’s Cafe

Located at 10115 Main St. Bothell, WA

Nestled in a charming 1927-built brick building, Alexa’s Cafe is a neighborhood staple! “We love Alexa’s on main street!” shares Tonya Tye, and Jen Bowman recommends the sweet spot for brunch.

Their extensive breakfast menu is filled with classics like breakfast sandwiches, “bennys,” pancakes and French toast, and scrambles, and their lunch menu is a mouthwatering selection of sandwiches, soups, salads, burgers, wraps, and much more.

Need catering for your event? Becky Larsen recommends checking out Alexa’s catering options whether you’re catering a business lunch or a wedding rehearsal dinner.


Grazie Ristorante

Located at 23207 Bothell-Everett Hwy Bothell, WA 98021

If you’re craving Italian, Jen Bowman recommends heading to Grazie Ristorante for pizza, lasagna, cannelloni, and other Italian specialties.

“[Grazie’s serves] great dinners with an extensive wine list and happy hour with live music weekly!” recommends Becky Larsen. Enjoy daily happy hours from opening to 6pm and take advantage of half-price appetizers, wine, beer, and drink specials. As Becky mentioned, Grazie also hosts live music, and you can view their schedule of events here.


Uncle Peteza’s Pizzeria

Located at 228th & Meridian

Located Safeway Plaza 24118 Bothell-Everett Hwy Bothell, WA 98012

“We LOVE Uncle Peteza’s Pizzeria!” shares Melissa Huddleston. “They have two locations—one on 228th and Meridian, and one in the Safeway Plaza off of 241st and Bothell Everett Hwy. Their crust is the best! They have deep dish, thin crust, and, wait for it – STUFFED CRUST! My favorite is the veggie pizza and Chris’ is the Meatsa. They also have cheesy bread, wings, oven baked sandwiches, pasta, calzones, and salads. Yum!!! Now I’m hungry!!”

Melissa’s right—Uncle Peteza’s Pizzeria’s incredible pizza selection is sure to make everyone in your dining party happy! They also have gluten-free pizza, soup, bottomless soda, and a convenient rewards program.


Sushi Hana

Located at 2020 Maltby Road Suite 2 Bothell, WA 98021

Sushi Hana, a conveyor belt sushi restaurant at Thrasher’s Corner, is one of our favorites. When you don’t want to cook and the kids are starving and you don’t want to wait to order at a sit-down restaurant, this speedy sushi joint is the ticket! Large booths for groups of 6 or bar stools at the belt offer lots of seating. Always great service and good quality sushi,” shares Jen Bowman.

Sushi Hana is truly dedicated to quality—their conveyor belt-style sushi utilizes RFID technology to monitor the dishes on their conveyor belt, and no dish is allowed to be in circulation for more than 2 hours.

Sushi Hana serves up dozens of dishes, from classic nigiri to more unique sushi rolls. “In addition to traditional sushi, they have small plates of strawberries, green grapes, and Mochi ice cream for dessert! They also serve bottled sake, beer and wine,” shares Jen. We recommend taking a look at their menu here!


The Three Lions Pub

Located at 10111 Main Street Bothell WA, 98011

Lion’s Pub on main is always good for watching sports and enjoying beers and pub food,” advises Tonya Tye. And when Tonya says “pub food,” she really means it—Lion’s Pub serves up classic English pub dishes like classic fish & chips, Lancashire Pasty, sausage rolls, steak & mushroom pie, steak & kidney pie, bangers & mash, Shepherd’s Pie, and much more!

Plus, enjoy happy hours every weekday from 4-6pm and on weekends from 3-6pm. Take advantage of their deals on well drinks, wine, draft beer, and cider.


Amaro Bistro

Located at 18333 Bothell Way NE #105 Bothell, WA 98011

Becky Larsen loves Amaro Bistro for their great meals, awesome happy hour, and the fact that it’s a great place to celebrate a special occasion. Brunch, lunch, dinner, dessert, drinks and more are all served at this popular Italian bistro, and their extensive wine menu is truly impressive. Plus, Amaro is also family-friendly and has a special kid’s menu.

Enjoy daily happy hour deals from 3pm-6pm and 10pm to midnight, and take advantage of their lunch special of 2 courses for $16!


Preservation Kitchen

Located at 17121 Bothell Way NE Bothell WA 98011  

Highly recommended by both Brian Hayter and Tonya Tye, Preservation Kitchen offers an exquisite seasonal menu. They’re dedicated to supporting local businesses, and they use sustainable and organic ingredients whenever they can.

Tonya especially recommends their amazing polenta fries and their good wine selection, but menus change based on the season, so check out their website every now and then! We also highly recommend their happy hour. From 2-6pm daily, enjoy a large selection of appetizers, $7 cocktails, and discounts on beer and wine. See the complete happy hour menu here.


Bothell is packed with incredible places to eat, and we included a few other favorites below:

Bothell March 9, 2017

4 Fabulous Ways to Spend a Weekend in Bothell

A destination for locals and out-of-towners alike, Bothell’s wide variety of opportunities for fun and entertainment make it a top choice for those looking for a memorable weekend experience! Nestled in a prime location that’s surrounded by beautiful outdoors and some of the most popular attractions in the region, it’s not hard to be entertained in Bothell.

Check out our 4 ideas for how to spend a fabulous weekend in Bothell:


McMenamins: Hotel, Dining, Bars, Movies & More

McMenamins Anderson School is a great spot!” recommends Brian Hayter. “There are lots of options within but my favorite place is to grab a drink and sit outside near the fire pits, or they have outdoor tables that are under cover with heaters for the cold/wet days.”

Whether you’re just looking for dinner and a movie or searching for an overnight getaway, McMenamins’ Anderson School in Bothell has your dining and entertainment needs covered! This one-stop-shop is located in a converted school, and hotel rooms are located in converted classrooms.

During your stay, visit the Principal’s Office for a drink, enjoy outdoor seating at the Tavern on the Square, take advantage of the Anderson School Theater Bar (order burgers, brews, popcorn, and candy and have it delivered to your table during the movie!), and much more. We recommend checking out their website for room package offerings, a schedule of special events, and more details on accommodations.


Woodinville Wine Country: Sip & Shop

Located right next door to Woodinville, Bothell’s close proximity to this wine capital make it a popular destination for wine lovers. Woodinville is home to a whopping 108 wineries and tasting rooms, 8 microbreweries, distilleries & cideries, and 26 different dining spots! With so many wineries to choose from, it can be a bit daunting, but we recommend checking out Woodinville Wine Country’s website for a guide to Woodinville’s different districts as well as a list of wineries and a special passport that can get you discounts. For those hoping to stay the weekend, there’s also a guide on hotels and bed & breakfasts available for your convenience.

When the sun comes out, Tonya Tye recommends biking from downtown on the Sammamish River Trail and finding a glass of wine to enjoy at the plethora of wineries. She also recommends listening to some music at the popular Chateau Ste Michelle, home to some delicious wine in addition to a concert series that attracts big names like Josh Groban and John Legend.


Country Village

Whether you’re looking for some family-friendly entertainment or heading out with a group of adults for a night on the town, Country Village offers a whimsical setting to explore and enjoy! Discover charming ponds, restaurants, and shops with gifts, home decor, toys, antiques, and much more. Home to almost 40 shops, we recommend setting aside at least an entire day to explore the scene!

Country Village is also home to several events throughout the year—enjoy beer walks, wine walks, “Ladies Night Out” events, and other more adult-friendly events alongside seasonal happenings for kids like Cookies with Mrs. Claus, Gingerbread House Weekend, Wizard Fest, Meet the Easter Bunny, and much more.

Also, from June through September each year, take advantage of the Country Village Farmers Market! Located in the center parking lot, this dynamic expanse of vendors features dozens of stands, fresh local produce, handmade items, live music, and much more. View farmers market dates and a list of vendors here.


Brewery Tour

Beer is a big deal in the Pacific Northwest, and Bothell’s long list of breweries sets the perfect scene for a weekend brewery tour!

  • Watts Brewing Company: This nano brewery names their accessible beers after bees, and each release is only brewed once.
  • Decibel Brewing Co: Kids, pets, and outside food are welcome at this establishment!
  • The Hop and Hound: Enjoy at least a dozen fresh beers on tap, plus Stumptown Cold Brew Coffee on NITRO, and different food trucks every Friday.
  • Foggy Noggin Brewing: As one of the world’s smallest production breweries, Foggy Noggin offers fresh beers in their Bothell tasting room (bring a growler!).
  • Nine Yards Brewing: This all ages spot is located right off of the Burke Gilman trail, making it a great option when you need to stop and cool down.

Tonya Tye also recommends stopping at 192 Brewing Co. or Cairn Brewing, and combining it with a day of riding your bike along the Burke Gilman or along Lake Washington. Break for a picnic along the way!


Posted on March 2, 2017 at 4:27 pm
Windermere Real Estate North | Category: Bothell
Bothell March 9, 2017

Unique Ways to Stay Active in Bothell: Bike Trails, Trampolines, & Water Sports

Feeling a bit tired of heading to the gym as usual? Need some inspiration? Staying fit and healthy doesn’t have to be boring, and luckily for Bothell residents, there are plenty of unique ways for staying active!

While Bothell is definitely home to some great gyms (Jen Bowman recommends Orange Theory and Fusion Hot Yoga in Canyon Park for major calorie-burning workouts!), we also recommend checking out these other options for something that’s extra fun, entertaining, and active:


Elevated Sportz

Located at 18311 Bothell Everett Hwy Suite 140, Bothell WA 98012

Elevated Sportz in North Bothell is the best rainy day exercise you can get,” says Jen Bowman. “Their weekly schedule offers variety of activities for kids and adults. Trampoline dodgeball anyone? They have a food counter where you can fuel up, too. Even better yet, NO MEMBERSHIP required. My toddler loves the daily 10am-12:30pm Hoppy Hour in the three level Adventure Zone that’s perfect for little kids to explore and play in a padded environment!”

Kids and adults alike love Elevated Sportz, and their dynamic range of offerings ensures there’s always something new to check out! In addition to the events that Jen mentioned, Elevated Sportz hosts a Lazer Club Night for teens, an all-ages Cosmic Night laser party, Lazer Maze Challenge, homeschool meetups, Special Needs days, and more! Plus, you can host birthday parties, team parties, or even rent out the entire facility for your special event.

Check out pricing and take a look at the different play areas offered here.


The Park at Bothell Landing

Located at 9919 NE 180th St Bothell, WA 98011at N Bothell Way

“The Park at Bothell Landing offers a little known boat launch along the Sammamish River, where you can put in your kayak, canoe or paddle board to take advantage of an outdoor ‘gym’ that will cost you nothing,” recommends Claudette Meyer. “Whether your goal is an energizing early morning paddle, an after work recharge, or an all-day workout, you’ll burn calories surrounded by beautiful scenery. Head west if your destination is Lake Washington. For a much longer paddle, you can head southeast to Lake Sammamish, maybe with a pit stop at Redhook Brewery along the way.”

Great tips, Claudette! Not only does The Park at Bothell Landing offer the opportunity to stay active, but it’s also a lovely place to spend time with family or friends at. Pack a picnic and make a day of it!


Burke-Gilman Trail

More than 18 miles long, the Burke-Gilman Trail extends from Shilshole Bay in Seattle all the way to the City of Bothell. This incredible amenity not only offers a paved surface for joggers, walkers, skaters, strollers, and bikers, but it’s also a popular commuting option as well!

Recently, the trail has be undergoing some updates, and Melissa Huddleston has the details:

“In addition to the Burke Gilman Trail, the North Creek Trail expansion will connect the North Creek Park in Bothell to the Burke Gilman Trail. The new expansion will extend from 183rd St SE to SR 524 and will include an elevated walkway 20-40 feet above ground,” shares Melissa.

“This section of the trail will be located between Sprague Drive and 192nd St SE. The timeframe of completion according to the Snohomish County website is still to be determined. I’m very excited as this trail will literally be steps from my home. On warm summer days, you’ll be able to find me riding my bike from my house to Woodinville Wine Country!”

You can view a map of the entire trail here, complete with information on road access points. We recommend planning your trip ahead of time and stopping at one of the beautiful, scenic parks along the way!


Posted on March 2, 2017 at 4:32 pm
Windermere Real Estate North | Category: Bothell
Mountlake Terrace March 9, 2017

4 Things You Need to Know About the Mountlake Terrace Transit Center

As a local hub of transit and convenience, Mountlake Terrace is a popular choice for those who want to live in a smaller city that’s still close to Seattle and the Eastside. The Mountlake Terrace Transit Center makes this all possible by connecting local, commuter, and regional busses with passengers.

“Mountlake Terrace has a great transit center!” confirms Shelly Katzer. “[Mountlake Terrace also offers] convenient access to the freeway, [and] commuting to work is easy.”

REALTOR® Brian Hayter agrees; “[The] transit center is used by tons of commuters on 6101 236th Street SW, [and] provides easy access to Seattle. Light Rail is eventually going to be coming to Mountlake Terrace,” Brian added.

If you’re moving to Mountlake Terrace or already live here and need some commuting tips, read on! Here are 5 things we think you need to know about the Mountlake Terrace Transit Center:

The Transit Center has the capacity for over 1,000 cars.

This include a 5-level parking garage with 900 spaces. Plus, there’s bike lockers and racks available as well! This means 1,000 fewer cars on the streets during rush hour. (Thank you, Transit Center!) Helping 40,000 passengers commute each day is an amazing feat, and as our region grows, the Transit Center will become an even more crucial part of our community.

Light Rail is coming to Mountlake Terrace in 2023!

This is a BIG deal for the community. Construction on the new light rail station and route is slated to begin in 2018, and expected to begin servicing the area in 2023. Take a look at this interactive map for a better understanding of the upcoming Link Light Rail expansion!

You can take a bus to Downtown Seattle, Everett, and beyond from the Transit Center.

For those who have to commute for work, the Transit Center is served by several commuter buses and express bus services. You can take a look at schedules and specific routes here.

DART (Dial-A-Ride-Transportation) offers those with disabilities transportation access.

Specially designed for those with health conditions and disabilities this service offers those who wouldn’t ordinarily have access to public transit the opportunity to get out and about in the community. Learn more about how to use this excellent service here.

Posted on February 9, 2017 at 5:59 pm
Windermere Real Estate North | Category: Mountlake Terrace
Mountlake Terrace March 9, 2017

Our 5 Favorite Things About the Mountlake Terrace Recreation Pavilion

Nestled between Terrace Park School and the Mountlake Terrace Off-Leash Dog Park, the Mountlake Terrace Recreation Pavilion (5303 228th Street SW, Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043) is an incredible multi-purpose facility packed with amenities to take advantage of! When we asked REALTOR® Brian Hayter what people in MLT like to do for fun, the Recreation Pavilion was at the top of the list, and it also came highly recommended by Shelly Katzer as well!

“The MLT Pavilion offers great programs for all ages, including a great swimming program,” shares Shelly. “My kids enjoyed the pre-school programs, before and after school Kids Krew and summer camps.”

This dynamic community center offers so many amenities to the MLT community, and we wanted to share a few of our favorite things about the community center that are not to be missed!

Photo courtesy of the Mountlake Terrace Recreation & Parks Facebook page

 

The multi-purpose swimming pool.

This warm-water pool not only is home to swimming lessons and a range of classes, but it also includes a lazy river with a current, spray toys, a beach-like entry leisure pool, a therapy pool, handicapped access, a sauna, and more. Plus, you can even rent out the pool for parties!

Kids programs, like preschool, before & after school care, and summer camps!

Keeping kids busy is easy with this community center in your city’s backyard! There are 3 preschool options for kids ages 3 to 5, each program providing a unique set of offerings. Kids Krew offers before and after school care for kids ages 5 to 12, and a huge variety of summer camps include themes like swimming, dance, basketball, tennis, and general youth camps.

The huge variety of fitness classes and sports leagues.

Whether you’re into something super upbeat (like Turbo kick or Zumba) or something a little more low-key (like yoga and Tai Chi), the recreation pavilion has a large selection to choose from. If playing on a team is more your style, adults can participate in basketball, racquetball, softball, volleyball, and racquetball sports. Sign up with a friend and meet your neighbors!

The MLT Recreation Pavilion is open 7 days a week.

Whether you want a workout before work or the kids need to burn off some energy on a rainy Sunday, the pavilion is open and waiting to be used! Hours include Monday – Thursday 6am – 9:30pm, Friday 6am – 7:15pm, Saturday 7am – 8pm, and Sunday 8:30am – 7pm.

Mountlake Terrace residents get a discount.

Whether you’re using the pool, buying a pass, or taking a class, all MLT residents receive a discount on using this facility. You can view all 2017 fees here.

Check out the complete Recreation Program Guide here!

Posted on February 9, 2017 at 5:50 pm
Windermere Real Estate North | Category: Mountlake Terrace
Mountlake Terrace March 9, 2017

7 Breweries for Beer Lovers Just North of Seattle

You don’t have to drive all the way to Seattle for premium microbrews and cool glasses of crafts beers—just north of Seattle, our beer scene is brimming with local options that any craft connoisseur will appreciate. Whether you want to fill up a growler, go on a weekend beer tour, or just grab a pint with friends, these 7 breweries just north of Seattle in Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, Edmonds, and Kenmore all offer the perfect place to start!

MOUNTLAKE TERRACE

Diamond Knot Brewpub at MLT

 

  • Located at 5602 232nd Street SW Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
  • Hours: Monday-Thursday 11am – 11pm, Friday 11am – Midnight, Saturday 8am – Midnight, Sunday 8am – 11pm

Recommended by both REALTOR® Brian Hayter and Shelly Katzer, the Diamond Knot Brewpub is a local favorite. Started by Bob Maphet and Brian Sollenberger as a hobby, Diamond Knot Craft Brewing now makes over 600 barrels of beer every single month! Diamond Knot mainstays include their India Pale Ale, Industrial IPA, Blonde Ale, Pipe Down Brown Ale, Above Board Pale Ale, E.S.B. Steamer Glide Stout, Possession Porter, and Hefeweizen.

TIP: You can also grab breakfast, lunch or dinner here, plus they’re family- and dog-friendly!

Learn more about Diamond Knot here:


LYNNWOOD

Big E Ales

 

  • Located at 5030 208th St SW Suite A. Lynnwood, WA 98036
  • Hours: Tuesday – Thursday 1pm – 10pm, Friday & Saturday 11am – 10pm

Brewing since 1997, Big E Ales serves up hand-crafted ales alongside a full, mouthwatering menu of delicious appetizers and entrees. You can stop by for a refreshing beer with friends, or even book the Brew Room for events like wedding receptions and company parties.

TIP: Their blog is packed with interesting beer history!


EDMONDS

Salish Sea Brewing Company

 

  • Located at 518 Dayton St. #104 Edmonds, WA 98020
  • Hours: Monday – Wednesday 3pm – 9pm, Thursday 3pm – 10pm, Friday – Saturday 12pm – 11pm, Sunday Noon – 8pm

Home to a variety of carefully crafted brews, Salish Sea Brewing Company is a staple of the region. Beer lovers can choose from their Drop Anchor IPA, Salish IPA Dayton Street (3 SEAS) Session ISA, Driftwood Pale, Honey Golden, NW “Wildfire” Red, Expansion Amber, Kodiak Brown Porter, Prior Porter, Big Chocolate Love:  A Robust Porter, and the seasonal Blackfish Stout and Blizzzaak Winter Ale. In addition to grabbing an ice-cold brew, you can enjoy an evolving menu of sandwiches, soups, and appetizers.

TIP: Families are welcome, and dogs are allowed on the outside patio.


American Brewing Company

 

  • Located at 180 W. Dayton St. Warehouse 102 Edmonds, WA 98020
  • Hours: Monday – Thursday 3pm – 9pm, Friday 3 – 10pm, Saturday Noon – 10pm, Sunday Noon – 8pm

At American Brewing Company, craftsmanship and science are at the forefront of everything they do and create. Started in 2010 by Adam Frantz, American Brewing Company benefits from Adam’s years of practice and his worldwide travels that have influenced his craft beers. Their consistent offerings include an India Pale Ale, Pale Ale, Kolsch Ale, Stout, and a selection of seasonal and specialty beers.

TIP: These guys also brew 6 flavors of kombucha!


Gallagher’s Where-U-Brew

 

  • Located at 180 W. Dayton St. #105  EDMONDS, WA
  • Hours: Tuesday – Friday 2pm – 8pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am – 5pm

Ready to DIY your own brew?! Gallaghers Where-U-Brew offers an amazing opportunity to create your very own craft beer! They provide you with everything you need to brew a batch of beer… and it only takes 2 hours! They’re guide you through the different types of brews you can create, help you select what you’re most interested in, and assign you to a professional brewing kettle with instructions on how to get started. Then, you set a date (usually 2 weeks later) for you to go in a bottle your beer! Learn more about the process here.

TIP: You can also brew ciders, root beer, and make your own wine at Gallagher’s!


KENMORE

Nine Yards Brewing

 

  • Located at 7324 NE 175th St., Suite A Kenmore, WA 98028
  • Hours: Monday – Thursday 2pm – 10pm, Friday 2pm – midnight, Saturday 11am – midnight, Sunday 11am-10pm

Located right off the Burke Gillman trail in Kenmore, Nine Yards is a popular local establishment. Stop by for hand-crafted brews, food trucks, pinball machines, Skee ball… this happening place has it all, and is great for group gatherings or parties.

TIP: This establishment is open to all ages!


Cairn Brewing

 

  • Located at 7204 NE 175th St. Bldg A, Kenmore, WA 98028
  • Hours: Wednesday and Thursday 4pm – 9pm, Friday 3pm – 10pm, Saturday 11:30am – 10pm, Sunday 11:30am – 6pm

Cairn Brewing is a hub for beer drinkers and beer brewers alike. Stop by to enjoy a pint of the many on-tap offerings, 5 of which are always served directly from the tank! (There will also often be a food truck parked outside for your convenience!) Or, for those who are interested in learning the craft straight from the masters, sign up for a homebrewing class! Learn about the beer-making process, and actually brew a batch in class.

TIP: The Cairn Brewing taproom is family- and dog-friendly!


Posted on February 9, 2017 at 6:04 pm
Windermere Real Estate North | Category: Mountlake Terrace
Mountlake Terrace March 9, 2017

3 Places That Mountlake Terrace Dog Owners Need to Know About

Whether you’re looking for a city that welcomes you and your furry best friend, or you already live in the Mountlake Terrace area and want to start exploring, you’re in luck! The Mountlake Terrace area has some excellent amenities for dog owners and their canine companions to enjoy, all while getting some exercise and enjoying the outdoors!

If you’re a dog owner in Mountlake Terrace, here are 3 places you need to know about:

Mountlake Terrace Off-Leash Dog Park

Recommended by REALTOR® Brian Hayter and Shelly Katzer, the Mountlake Terrace Off-Leash Dog Park is located just northeast of the MLT Recreation Pavilion. Offering just under an acre of space in the shaded woods of Terrace Creek Park, this fenced area is a haven for dogs!

“We love to take our dog Dash for walks and let him run off leash in the park!” shares Shelly Katzer. Dogs can run and play within the double-gate system, and owners are welcome to relax on benches (or run and play, too!). Learn more about the park and read rules for visiting the dog park here.


Marina Beach Off-Leash Park

While this park technically isn’t in Mountlake Terrace, it is in the neighboring city of Edmonds (498 Admiral Way Edmonds WA 98020) and well worth the short 10-20 minute drive from MLT. As part of the larger Marina Beach Park on the Edmonds waterfront, this park offers a long list of amenities in addition to the off-leash area. A loop trail, playground, restroom, picnic tables, barbecue area, and much more set the scene.

As for the dog park portion, furry friends can frolic in the sand, splash in the surf, and stretch their legs as they meet other dogs in the cool ocean breeze. Click here to learn more about this Edmonds off-leash area.


Photo courtesy of the Pet Adventure Facebook page

Pet Adventure Shop

Located in the Cedar Plaza Shopping Center (22803 44th Ave. West Suite E-5 Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043), Pet Adventure Shop is a must-visit destination for local pet owners! Established in 2010 and owned and operated by locals, Pet Adventure Shop stocks its shelves with a huge range of food and supplies. Even the pickiest of pets are bound to find something delicious here—check out a list of the brands of cat and dog foods Pet Adventure Shop carries here.

In addition to supplies for cats and dogs, they also carry an eclectic variety of products for other animals including hamsters, birds, bunnies, fish, chickens, and horses.

Posted on February 9, 2017 at 5:55 pm
Windermere Real Estate North | Category: Mountlake Terrace