Blog November 24, 2014

Top 5 Moving Tips When Moving to Pierce County

Moving Tips

Moving can arguably be one of the most stressful events a person will go through. From everything to buying and selling homes, to the risk of items being lost or damaged in the move, it is easy to see why. There are plenty of sources and lists offering moving tips and ideas to reduce stress. Here is a list of the top 5 moving tips that we always recommend to our clients when moving to Pierce County.

  • Be prepared. Having a plan and sticking to it will make your move go much more smoothly. Keep all documents and papers related to the move in a singular location, and maintain easy access to important phone numbers and documents.
  • Name the place. When packing, label the boxes with the items inside and the room the box belongs in. This one may seem like a no brainer, but it will save you endless amounts of frustration.
  • Update the postal service. Fill out the postal service change of address form six to eight weeks before your move, to make sure that you receive all of your mail with as little interruption as possible.
  • Keep the kids occupied. On move in day, coloring books and crayons can be a lifesaver! Pack some toys and games for your children that are easily accessible. This will give them something fun and familiar to do while you’re unpacking and settling in.
  • Keep your pets safe. Another thing to consider on move in day is how you will keep your pets safe. A good idea is to isolate them in a room that will have no or minimal foot traffic during the move. Be sure to include their food, water, and toys in the room and put a note on the door letting people know that your pets are inside. This will keep them from darting out the door and escaping… or even worse.

These top 5 moving tips won’t completely eliminate the stress of a move, but they will make the experience much more pleasant. We’ve helped a wealth of clients with their moves to Pierce County and would be happy to help you navigate any or all of these steps!


Things to Avoid When Moving to Pierce County

There are also several things to avoid when moving, including mistakes that are commonly made when working with movers and moving companies. Here are just a few tips to help your move go more smoothly, and avoid costly mistakes:

  • All movers are NOT created equal. Like any sort of service providers, moving companies perform at a wide range of levels. You need to be comfortable with the company you do business with.
  • Never rely solely on an online price quote. Moving companies need to see what you’re moving in person. Only after seeing the items to be moved in your home will they give you a written estimate, which they are bound to.
  • Watch for the classic warning signs. Less than credible moving companies tend to follow the same patterns. Asking for a big deposit or payment up front, showing up in a rental truck or a truck without their name on it, and claims that are almost always too good to be true are some of the most common red flags to watch out for.
  • The lower price is not always the best deal. As is true with many things, you get what you pay for with moving companies. Most people who complain about getting “ripped off” by a moving company will also admit that they were drawn in by the lowest bid.
  • Start planning now. You’ll be better served all around by planning in advance for all aspects of your move.

Moving Companies in Pierce County

There are several moving companies from which to choose in Pierce County. It is always a good idea to get multiple estimates and work with a company you feel comfortable with. Here’s a list of some of the more popular options for moving companies in Pierce County. If you’d like our personal recommendations, please do not hesitate to contact us today!

  • Two Men and a Truck – 970-279-0067
  • Last Minute Movers – 206-391-0204
  • Lile North American Moving – 253-584-2222
  • Boush Moving – 253-845-8829
  • APEX Moving and Storage – 253-864-7870
  • World Wide Movers – 253-472-8400

When you’re ready to search for Pierce County real estate or if you would like more information about financing a home, moving, or anything having to do with the home buying and selling process, you have come to the right place! I am Vickie Jennings, and I focus on making the process of buying and selling real estate fun, but also educational and rewarding. I offer a complete range of real estate services, and would love the opportunity to find your perfect home for you! Personal service is my top priority, and I am completely dedicated to providing you with the highest quality service to meet all of your real estate needs. Take a look through my current listings, and then call or connect with me to get started today!


Market Reports November 19, 2014

Thurston County

Thurston County Market Report for residential single-family Homes. 

Note: Doesn’t include condominiums! But, I have those reports too! 

Curious about the market stats for a specific area in Thurston County? E-mail me! This market graph is updated MONTHLY, so please bookmark and visit again!

***When looking at the data remember that 6 months of inventory is balanced and stable. Less than 6 months is leaning toward a Seller’s market and more than 6 months is leaning on a Buyer’s market.


Blog November 18, 2014

How to Buy a Pierce County Home

Pierce County Homes

Pierce County is a county located in Washington, and has the second highest county population in Washington, second only to King County. Named for the United States President Franklin Pierce, the county was formed in late 1852 and is most notably the home to the Mount Rainier volcano, the tallest mountain in not only the Cascade Range, but the entire United States, as well.

Perhaps one of the main reasons that families, professionals and retirees choose to live in Pierce County is because of the area’s diverse landscape and wealth of exceptional recreational attractions. Pierce County boasts many natural and geographic features, including the following:

  • Anderson Island. Anderson Island is the southernmost island in Puget Sound. Accessible by boat or ferry, Anderson Island is just below McNeil Island.
  • Carbon River. Carbon River is sourced from the Carbon Glacier on Mount Rainier, and flows through Mount Rainier National Park.
  • Cascade Range. The Cascade Range in one of the major mountain ranges in the western United States, extending from British Columbia, through Washington and Oregon, all the way to California.
  • Case Inlet. Case Inlet is located in the Puget Sound, and is a body of water between Key Peninsula and Hartsline Island.
  • Commencement Bay. Commencement Bay is a bay located in Puget Sound. Tacoma is located on Commencement Bay.
  • Fox Island. Fox Island is another island in Puget Sound, popular among locals for fishing and scuba diving.
  • Herron Island. Herron Island is another island in southern Puget Sound, and is a privately owned island. Access to the island is limited to boat.
  • Ketron Island. Another island in Puget Sound, Ketron Island is a very small island with just a few residents. There is limited access to the island, but a ferry is available.
  • Key Peninsula. Key Peninsula is known to locals as “The KP” or “The Key.” This peninsula was given its name from its key shape, and is home to two state parks.

Once you’ve decided that Pierce County is the place for you, there are several tips to keep in mind for how to buy a home. We’ve put together this list of things to keep in mind when thinking about buying a home, many of which are helpful in deciding how to buy a Pierce County home:

  • Don’t buy if you can’t stay put. If you can’t commit to staying in one home for at least a few years, it isn’t right.
  • Start by shoring up your credit. A few months before you begin house hunting, obtain a copy of your credit report and make sure all of the information contained is accurate. Now is the time to fix any errors and do what you can to make your credit as good as possible.
  • Aim for a home you can really afford. There are a number of calculators available online that can analyze your income, debts, and expenses and determine how much house you can realistically afford.
  • If you can’t put down the usual 20 percent, you may still qualify for a loan. There are wide ranges of public and private lenders that also offer low-rate mortgages with a small down payment.
  • Buy in a district with good schools. This tip actually applies even if you don’t have children in school – when it comes time to sell your house, you’ll realize that being in a good school district is a top priority for many homebuyers.
  • Get professional help. Even though the Internet offers plenty of access to housing information and listings, you will almost always come out ahead by obtaining the services of a qualified Realtor.
  • Choose carefully between points and rate. It is almost always a better deal to take the points – the lower interest rate will save you money in the long term.
  • Before house hunting, get pre-approved. The benefits of getting pre-approved are two-fold. It saves you the heartache of falling in love with a house you really can’t afford, and it also puts you in a better position to make a strong offer when you find the house that’s right for you.
  • Do your homework before bidding. Your starting bid should be based on the selling price of neighborhood comps, or similar homes in the neighborhood.
  • Hire a home inspector. The job of a home inspector is to point out any potential problems with the house that could lead to costly repairs down the road.

Why It’s Good to Hire a Realtor

If you’re thinking about how to buy a Pierce County home, one of the crucial first steps is deciding whether or not you want to hire a Realtor. Although the choice is yours, buyers are almost always better off utilizing the services of a professional Realtor, who will work with your best interest in mind and help you with strategies for negotiating, once you’ve found the home that’s right for you. Realtors can offer fantastic resources to you as a buyer, and they help facilitate the transaction process. A good Realtor can provide a neutral, unbiased voice of reason, which is especially helpful in negotiations, which can be an emotional roller coaster for even the most experienced of buyer.


Real Estate for Sale in Pierce County

If you’re wondering how to buy a Pierce County home or if you’d like more information on Pierce County Washington real estate, feel free to give me a call. I’m Vickie Jennings, and I strive to raise the standards in real estate, by providing my clients with a positive outlook, an honest perspective, and outstanding service. Personal service is my top priority, and I would love to offer you a home evaluation or tell you more about the Pierce County market. Browse through my blog and website to learn more about the area, and then call or connect with me to get started today!


Blog October 20, 2014

Chambers Bay Gets Ready in Advance of 2015 U.S. Open

Chambers Bay

The Chambers Bay golf course has less than a year to go in its preparations to host the 2015 U.S. Open, the biggest professional golf tournament in America. The United States Golf Association selected Chambers Bay in 2008 and the course has been making preparations ever since. According to articles released by the course, a dozen new tees have been added and at least three green complexes have been modified, too.

Most recently, tee times are being significantly reduced to make sure Chambers Bay is in peak condition for the world’s best players. The reduction in tee times began in September, with the course being shut down two days per week. Starting the second week in November it will shut down three days a week, and will be closed Monday through Thursday beginning the last week of November through early March. Why the reduction in tee times? The fine fescue grass is quite fragile and is particularly vulnerable in the winter. Since the grass doesn’t grow from November to March, nothing regenerates during that time.

In addition to making sure the course is top-notch for the 2015 U.S. Open, our community as a whole is prepping for the anticipated 240,000 people who will be arriving to enjoy the event. Getting people to and from Chambers Bay is one of the biggest concerns, with the course accessed via a two-lane residential road. While the traffic plan won’t be released until early next year, plans for shuttle lots and bus service have been talked about.


U.S. Open at Chambers Bay

It’s expected that the region will see approximately $150 million in economic impact during the one-week tournament. But the region is most excited about the long-term financial impacts that the worldwide exposure will produce. For many visitors, this will be their first time being exposed to our region – it’s likely to have an impact on tourism and knowledge of our community for years to come.

Here are some quick facts to remember:

  •    The U.S. Open will be held June 18-21, 2015
  • Location: Chambers Bay in University Place, about 10 miles southwest of Tacoma.
  • Tickets: Tickets information is available through the USGA website, although all final round tickets and weekly ticket passes have been sold out since summer-2014.
  • This will be the first U.S. Open held in the Northwest.
  • It will also be the first time that the U.S. Open has been held on a course with fine fescue grass.
  • Fox will be doing its first golf broadcast at the U.S. Open at Chambers Bay.
  • Chambers Bay first opened for play on June 23, 2007.
  • The course was designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., and is the centerpiece of a 930-acre park owned by Pierce County.
  • The property was formerly a sand-and-gravel quarry, which was quite popular with off-road, four-wheel and dirt bike enthusiasts.
  • During construction, 1.4 million cubic yards of dirt and sand were removed, cleaned off site, and returned to sculpt the course.

Chambers Bay Homes for Sale

While our entire community is excited to be hosting the U.S. Open in 2015, Chambers Bay is more than just a beautiful golf course – it is a beautiful backdrop for some of the finest homes in University Place, Washington. Positioned on the beautiful Puget Sound, the city of University Place is home to more than 31,500 residents. You’ll find University Place nestled halfway between the state capital of Olympia and the state’s largest city, Seattle.

In addition to the golf course, Pierce County Washington property in University Place offers views of the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound. When you choose to explore your housing options here, you’ll find everything from quaint condominiums to sprawling waterfront estates and mansions. Rest assured knowing that University Place offers something for buyers and budgets of all types.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy the 2015 U.S. Open from the comforts of your new Chambers Bay and University Place home or simply want to learn more about your real estate options in the Pacific Northwest, it would be my pleasure to assist you. With years of experience in this real estate market, let me put my knowledge and expertise to work for you.In the meantime, please feel free to browse my website to learn more about our communities and do not hesitate to contact me when you’re ready to find the perfect home. I look forward to hearing from you soon and to welcoming you home to University Place and Chambers Bay. Connect today!


Blog September 26, 2014

How to Sell Your Pierce County Home

Selling in Pierce County

Are you thinking about selling your home in Pierce County? Whether you are thinking about upgrading into a bigger home, downsizing after the kids have moved out or if you simply want to move into a different neighborhood you will find that not only are there numerous real estate opportunities available to you, but selling your home is not as scary and frustrating as you might think.

In the same way that buying a home is an important decision that should not be made lightly, selling your home is also an important step and process. Selling a home can be confusing, frustrating and a very emotional experience, but if it is done right then you will sail through it with ease. Here are some of my top tips on How to Sell Your Pierce County Home:

  • Plan ahead: Before you hire a realtor and put your home on the market for sale, make sure you have taken the time to plan out the process. In order to get top dollar for your property it’s important to do a thorough inspection and invest some time and money into fixing up the property. Some things that should be taken care of include plumbing issues, roof problems, foundation issues and other repairs that will completely turn off potential buyers. Once the most important repairs have been made then you might also want to give your home some TLC and repair broken windows, give the house a fresh coat of paint, plant some pretty flowers and water the grass and make the home presentable for future showings. A little love and attention can go a long way!
  • Hire a realtor: While it is completely possible to represent yourself in a sale, I highly recommend working with a licensed and experienced real estate agent who can help to alleviate some of the worry and frustration that comes along with selling your home. Your realtor should always have your best interest at heart and will work towards helping you sell your home for the right price and to the right buyers in a timely and efficient manner.
  • Price it right: Pricing your home right is the most important step in the sales process. If you price it too low then you will be losing out on money, but if you price it too high then you will be losing out on buyers. Consult with your realtor and ask for a CMA – a comparative market analysis – that will show you what similar homes to yours in nearby neighborhoods are selling for. It also helps to follow markets trends and real estate news that can help you price your property right.

There are numerous other tactics and tips you can follow to help you sell your Pierce County Real Estate including staging the property, including appliances and furniture to sweeten the deal, add in upgrades, investing in various marketing strategies and more.


Why It’s Good to Hire A Realtor

Many people choose to represent themselves when buying or selling a property. For this reason alone numerous individuals don’t understand Why It’s Good to Hire a Realtor. Representing yourself is perfectly doable and it ends up saving you a lot of money, but in some cases you can also lose out on a property you really wanted to purchase or lose money on a home you are trying to sell due to poor strategy. Real estate agents deal with buying and selling homes – that is what they do. A licensed and professional realtor has the knowledge and training necessary to help a client achieve every possible real estate goal. Realtors also have a specific set of skills, resources and contacts available to them to market your property efficiently and to set the perfect price for your property. A real estate agent also works within a vast network of other professionals, which allows them to market a property efficiently and get it sold quick. Working with a realtor is not necessary, but it is highly recommended if you are looking to achieve specific results in your sale.


Homes for Sale in Pierce County

Whether you are looking to sell your current home or if you are interested in Homes for Sale in Pierce County don’t hesitate to Contact me for guidance, support, advice and information. I would be more than happy to not only help you sell your current home, but also to help you find your new home in the area. Connect with me today so we can set up a time to meet and discuss your goals and options regarding Pierce County Real Estate.


Blog September 22, 2014

National Market Trends

Current Market Trends

With the third quarter coming to an end it’s time to look back and discuss some of the most important National Market Trends affecting the Washington real estate market as well as the industry as a whole. It’s no surprise that the whole country is still struggling to recover from the economic downfall and the real estate housing bubble from 2008-2009. Although there have been significant gains made in the majority of the United States others are having a hard time keeping up and staying afloat. This is mainly due to homebuyers who don’t trust the market and individuals who are staying put and avoiding risks in order to protect themselves from a similar financial crisis.

Many programs have been put in place to ward off housing bubbles and a similar financial situation, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry, which is exactly why the real estate market is recovering at such a slow pace. Washington state’s housing market rebounded from its low first quarter performance and the annual rate of existing home sales rose more than six percent in the second quarter of this year. The increase from the first to the second quarter is very important, however year over year activity is still down across the entire state.

Apart from homebuyers not willing to take risks on the market another big factor in the slow recovery is the fact that there is a huge lack of inventory on the market. This is more pronounced within the state’s major metropolitan areas and you may have noticed that there aren’t as many Pierce County Homes for Sale available on the MLS.

In other news, monthly foreclosures across the United States increased by seven percent in August. This is the first time foreclosures increased since 2010. The good news is that while the number is up from last month, it is still down nine percent from a year ago. This statistic shows that although the foreclosure crisis is well behind us, the messy business of cleaning up the distress from the lingering housing bust continues in many markets. This also suggests that mortgage lenders are finally adjusting to the new standards for proper foreclosures that have been implemented in may states by legislation, litigation or both.


Why Pierce County is a Great Place to Buy

Washington is among the fastest growing states in the country and Pierce County grows in population at the same rate as the entire state itself. This is because numerous individuals are attracted to the lifestyle, job opportunities, attractions and more that the area has to offer. It’s easy to make the move and to settle into an apartment in the area and there are numerous opportunities available for individuals who are not ready to buy a home. For residents who are ready to purchase a property it’s important to understand Why Pierce County is a Great Place to Buy.

The market in Pierce County is recovering just like the rest of the country, however the inventory is more stable here and pricing is also on its way to becoming more stable. A rise in home prices could be seen only if more individuals relocate to the area and the population increases. The biggest variable for the future of the real estate market in Pierce County will revolve around the inventory of homes that are owned by financial institutions or by owners who are reluctant to sell at a loss.


Move to Pierce County

pierce county homes

Are you considering making the Move to Pierce County? You are in for a treat. This wonderful city is known for its outstanding coffee, outdoor recreation, entertainment, culture, beautiful landmarks, prominent attractions, outstanding job opportunities and a stable housing market. Whether you are a veteran visitor to the area or a newcomer you are sure to fall in love with the city and all that it has to offer.

If you would like to learn more about Pierce County, the local real estate market, current listings or more information about relocating to the area check out the Resources page for helpful links and information. You can also contact me with any inquiries and questions that you may have. I would be more than happy to assist you will all of your real estate needs, show you around the area, help you browse through current listings and visit open houses and answer any questions you may have about Pierce County and the wonderful communities and neighborhoods. I look forward to hearing from you soon!


Activities August 18, 2014

Top Schools in Pierce County

school-house-clipart1Pierce County is a wonderful community in Washington State that is mostly known for its luscious surroundings, proximity to the majestic Mount Rainier Volcano and the outstanding quality of life offered to local residents and frequent visitors. It’s hard to imagine a better place to live than in Pierce County. The area is surrounded by saltwater shores and towering mountain peaks and the community is known for its rich culture, active nightlife, exciting entertainment, fine real estate opportunities and an outstanding education system comprised of the finest schools and universities. Residents and visitors are mainly attracted to Pierce County for its charming small-town feel with access to big city luxuries and amenities. Here you will find small-town farmers and big-city professionals, active retired couples and young families with young children. Pierce County has a little bit of everything and numerous individuals from all over are attracted to the area year after year.

In Pierce County you will find exceptional academic institutions and establishments with a wide range of programs and learning experiences available to students of all ages. There are 17 school districts in the area, 300 schools and seven colleges and universities. Whether you are looking for public or private education you are sure to find some of the Top Schools in Pierce County where you can rest assured knowing your young ones are receiving a world-class education. Here is a list of the top school districts in Pierce County:

  • Tacoma Public Schools
  • Auburn-Dieringer School District
  • Bethel School District
  • Carbinado School District
  • Clover Park School District
  • Eatonville School District
  • Fife School District
  • Franklin Pierce School District
  • Orting School District
  • Peninsula School District
  • Puyallup School District
  • Steilacoom Historical School District
  • Sumner School District
  • University Place School District
  • White River School District
  • Yelm School District

There are also numerous private schools in the area including the Cascade Christian Schools group, Life Christian School and Academy, Bellarmine and Charles Wright Academy.

Middle Schools in Pierce County

There are 62 public Middle Schools in Pierce County that serve more than 31,500 students. The student to teacher ratio is 19 to 1, which is the same as the state average. The Middle Schools in Pierce County are committed to always putting the students first and to fully establishing a stable base for every student to help them succeed throughout their educational career. The school districts partner with parents and the local community to provide a comprehensive educational experience that is rigorous, individualized and enables students to contribute to and fit into the always changing and diverse world.

Every program focuses on helping individual student sperform at or above grade level, communicating with and involving the local community and the parents and all schools are committed to creating and maintaining a safe learning environment that promotes excellent academic achievement.

High Schools in Pierce County

There are 62 High Schools in Pierce County that serve more than 37,500 students. Here is a short list of some of the top High Schools in Pierce County:

  • Annie Wright School
  • Bethel High School
  • Clover Park High School
  • Curtis Senior High School
  • Emerald Ridge High School
  • Fife High School
  • Franklin Pierce High School
  • Gig Harbor High School
  • Graham-Kapowsin High School
  • Henry Foss High School
  • Lakes High School
  • Lincoln High School
  • Mount Tahoma High School
  • Oakland Alternative High School
  • Orting High School
  • Peninsula High School
  • Puyallup High School
  • Governor John R. Rogers High School
  • Stadium High School
  • Tacoma School of the Arts
  • Washington High School
  • White River High School
  • Woodrow Wilson High School

Apart from the schools listed above there are also 61 private schools in Pierce County that serve more than 10,200 students.

There are also numerous options for higher education in the area including the Tacoma Community College, Pierce College, University of Puget Sound, Pacific Lutheran University, Central Washington University and the University of Washington Tacoma.

If you would like to learn more about schools in Pierce County, Washington or the local Pierce County Real Estate near a school you may be interested in don’t hesitate to give me a call or to set an appointment to meet with me. I would be more than happy to tour around the local Neighborhoods with you and to help you explore the different options for schools and education in your desired community. I look forward to hearing from you soon so we can get started on your search for the perfect home in the best Pierce County school district.

Blog July 21, 2014

Home Improvement Tips

Home Improvement

Taking care of your home will not only help you feel better about your property, but it will also increase the value as well as make it easier to sell if you do decide to the eventually sell the home. If you are thinking about sprucing up your home without breaking the bank then you will be happy to know that there are several Inexpensive Ways to Improve Your Home.

  • De-clutter: Cleaning out your home from items that have been saved up over the years is the first thing you can do to improve the appearance of your home. Throwing out items that you don’t use and organizing the rest of your belongings will make a huge difference and will also make your rooms seem more open and spacious.
  • Clean: While routine cleaning is absolutely necessary, it’s also important to give your home a proper floor-to-ceiling scrub down and deep cleaning every now and then. Whether you tackle the job yourself or hire help, make sure to wash all the windows, clean under cabinets and appliances, reach into corners as well as dust every crevice in your home.
  • Paint: You’d be surprised as to how uplifting a new paint job can be to a home. Whether you are painting the outside of your home, the inside, or both, a brand new paint job can easily make an older home appear brand new.
  • Curb Appeal: The first things passerby’s see when they walk by your home is the outer appearance. Make sure that your grass is neat and luscious, that your flowers are blooming, that there aren’t broken stones or concrete and that the front yard isn’t cluttered with personal belongings or toys.
  • Fix broken parts of the home: If you have broken windows, doors or other parts that need fixing make sure to do that. Not only will your house look a lot better, but it will also function efficiently.
  • Replace old items and dress your house: Once you have cleaned, patched and painted your home it’s time to replace old and tired items such as stained shower curtains, torn and discolored comforters, faded curtains, toilet seats, doorknobs and any other easy to replace fixtures throughout your home.

Things to save on

Believe it or not, it is possible to spruce up your home without putting yourself in debt or draining your savings account. The best way to save money is to do the work yourself without hiring contractors. Just be smart about it – if you can fix something yourself then do so, but if you can’t it’s better to spend a little extra to get it done right the first time. Some Things to Save on include:

  • Paint: You don’t have to buy extremely expensive paint. Also make sure to buy the right color the first time around. Ask your local home goods store for paint swatches or small samples so you can test out the color before you commit to it.
  • Landscaping: While not everyone is born with a green thumb, it is fairly easy to mow your lawn, pull out weeds and water the greenery to keep it fresh. You can also purchase fully-grown flowers from your local nursery and all you have to do is dig a hole for them and arrange them nicely.
  • Staging: In order to make your home feel nice and complete you can easily stage it with fresh flowers, unique artwork and various DIY décor.

Things to Splurge on

Some Things to Splurge on when fixing up your home are specific items that you can’t fix yourself. Unless you are an expert, you should hire professional help to fix electrical problems and plumbing issues. It’s also smart to switch out your old appliances for newer, energy efficient appliances. There are also various other upgrades that cost more such as completely re-doing kitchen cabinets, replacing the windows in your home and other projects that require time and money.

If you are interested in buying Pierce County Washington Real Estate then use the Property Search feature to help you find the perfect home by city, characteristics and price range. The search feature can also be of assistance to you if you are considering selling your home, because you can compare your property and see what similar homes are currently selling for. If you have any questions then don’t hesitate to give me a call, I would be more than happy to help you and answer all of your questions about the local real estate market.


Blog July 16, 2014

Chambers Bay Golf Course

Chambers Bay

The Chambers Bay Golf Course is a public golf course in University Place Washington, on Puget Sound. The course is owned by Pierce County and opened for play on June 23, 2007. Kemper Sports Management operates the course. The course is part of the Chambers Creek Properties, which includes numerous non-golf recreational opportunities including a three-mile loop walking trail.

In the same way that the game of golf has a rich history, so does the land on which Chambers Bay was created. The Chambers Creek Properties is comprised of more than 950 acres located along the shores of the Puget Sound. While Pierce County’s ownership of the property is fairly short, the area and the surrounding land began to take shape more than 200 years ago. The area was first used as a rock quarry all the way back in the 1830s when the first European settlers came to the area. Over the years the property has been used as a location for a paper mill, a major industrial center, various lumber companies, a railroad center, a sand and gravel mine, a regional wastewater treatment plant and a preservation and recreational area. That is until today where you will find a world-class 18-hole championship golf course.

The Chambers Bay Golf Course is a traditional “links course” golf course, which means:

  • The course runs along a major body of water
  • There are few trees
  • The course resides on sandy soil that drains easily
  • The layout is natural and open with native landscape
  • There are no internal water features installed
  • The rough areas feature pure seaside grasses

Some of the most notable examples of traditional links courses include St. Andrews Old Course, Royal Troon Golf Club, Carnoustie Golf Links, Ballybunion Old Course and the Chambers Bay Golf Course.

The course was certified on August 14, 2007 by Audubon International as a Silver Signature Sanctuary. Chambers Bay is the first golf course in both the state of Washington and in the Pacific Northwest to receive this certification. This is honor is awarded only to new developments that are designed, constructed and maintained according to Audubon International’s precise standards and environmental disciplines. Chambers Bay continues to uphold strict guidelines and standards that help protect the water quality and wildlife habitat on the property.

On June 15, 2015 Chambers Bay will welcome the U.S. Open as it comes to the Pacific Northwest for the very first time in history. The event will take place on June 15-21, 2015.


Chambers Bay Golf Homes for Sale

While Chambers Bay is not a golf course community you will find that there are numerous Chambers Bay Golf Homes for Sale all around the prestigious golf course. Here you will find numerous custom homes and estate properties that can offer you the finest luxury lifestyle in University Place. The homes around the golf course are located within walking distance of Chambers Bay. Owning a Pierce County Washington Property near Chambers Bay will allow you to enjoy a firsthand experience of the 2015 U.S. Open. You will also be conveniently located near local shopping businesses, restaurants and some of the finest public and private schools in Washington State. Whether you are interested in a custom home or a specific existing property you will find that there are numerous floor plans to choose from including charming single-family properties and expansive estate homes equipped with lavish amenities and stunning views of the surrounding vistas. There are also outstanding modern condos and townhomes available for lease or for sale all around the Chambers Bay golf course.

Currently there is a high demand for rental properties near the golf course to be rented out to the players competing in the tournament. Realtors are collecting information from local residents and comprising a program, which will allow residents to rent out their property during the 2015 U.S. Open. If you would like to learn more about this program don’t hesitate to give me a call.


Living at Chambers Bay Golf

Living at Chambers Bay Golf is similar to enjoying a resort style vacation. The homes, condos and communities surrounding the prestigious golf course are all equipped with outstanding amenities and the proximity to the club allows residents to indulge in a relaxing game of golf any day of the week. If you would like to check out some recently Sold Properties to get an idea of what the market is currently like then give me a call and I would be more than happy to share that information with you. If you are interested in looking for your own home near Chambers Bay then I can help you out with that too! Connect with me via phone or email so we can set up a time to discuss your real estate goals.


Blog June 23, 2014

Top 10 Restaurants in Pierce County

Restaurants in Pierce County

Pierce County is the second most populated county in Washington right behind King County. As such, the area is extremely popular among tourists, visitors as well as locals. Pierce County has much to offer to visitors and residents and it is most notable for being home to the Mount Rainier volcano, which is the tallest mountain in the Cascade Range. Pierce County is also home to some outstanding restaurants, cafes and eateries that you can visit and indulge in. You can satisfy almost any craving with the unique cuisines and delicious meals from local restaurants, bakeries, clubs and pubs. Check out the Top 10 Restaurants in Pierce County here:

  1. MarzanoMarzano Italian Restaurant – Marzano has loyally served the Tacoma area for more than 20 years and serves delicious authentic Italian cuisine. Consistency, creativity and an effortless hospitality are what make this restaurant one of the best and most distinctive neighborhood restaurants.
  2. El Gaucho – At El Gaucho, prepare to be treated to the ultimate dining experience. Expect attentive tableside service, complete indulgence, mouthwatering culinary creations and an extraordinary visit that will exceed all of your expectations.
  3. Asado Cucina Argentina – Asado has been voted the Best Latin American Restaurant by Evening Magazine’s “Best of Western Washington” for three years in a row. Asado offers the fabulous flavors of Argentina using fresh ingredients and by masterfully grilling delicious steaks over mesquite wood.
  4. Peterson Bros – Peterson Bros is a local favorite and is extremely popular for its delicious sandwiches, soups and the outstanding selection of refreshing beers. The staff is friendly and the kitchen crew diligently works to make almost everything from scratch.
  5. Marrow Kitchen & Bar – Marrow Kitchen & Bar offers fresh, local and uniquely creative dishes that will challenge, excite and satisfy your taste buds. Marrow is comprised of two menus, which offer protein based dishes as well as vegetarian dishes. The talented bartenders have also created specialty drinks and cocktails to perfectly complement the menu creations.
  6. Red Hot – Do you love hot dogs? Do you love beer? Then Red Hot is just for you. Creative twists on the traditional hot dog accompanied by a rare and delicious brew will be the highlight of your day.
  7. Moon Rise Café – One of the best breakfast spots in the area! Great coffee, great food, great service – what more could you ask for?
  8. Sushi Niwa – Sushi Niwa is one of those hole-in-the-wall places that is a well-kept secret amongst locals. This sushi restaurant is a true hidden gem that offers some of the freshest and best sushi at extremely decent prices.
  9. Quickie Too – If you are looking for a healthier dining option, then Quickie Too should be your top choice. All of the burgers here are vegan and the entire menu is very health oriented.
  10. The Matador The Matador offers fresh, gourmet Tex-Mex cuisine with handcrafted cocktails and more than 100 varieties of tequila. You are sure to enjoy your meal, the ambiance and the good times to be had at The Matador.

Where to Eat in Pierce County

If you are wondering Where to Eat in Pierce County you will be pleasantly surprised by the wide range of restaurants, cafes, delis, bakeries, pubs and lounges available to you, which are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you are craving Thai food, hot dogs, authentic Italian cuisine, a mouthwatering steak or just a traditional and juicy burger you are sure to find the perfect destination in Pierce County. If you are planning a romantic dinner or thinking about visiting a local pub for an exciting sporting event check out the list of the Top 10 Restaurants in Pierce County listed above to get an idea of what your options are.


My Favorite Restaurant

Pierce County Real Estate

If you are interested in learning about what My Favorite Restaurant is in Pierce County don’t hesitate to give me a call. I’d be more than happy to share some inside information on the dining scene in Pierce County. I can also assist you with finding the finest Pierce County Real Estate and show you around some of my currently Featured Properties. Pierce County Real Estate is situated within clean, charming and luscious neighborhoods where you will meet friendly neighbors and easily establish a comfortable lifestyle and routine for you and your family. If you have any questions about the local real estate options, the dining options or about anything else in Pierce County don’t hesitate to give me a call. I’d be more than happy to answer your questions and guide you on your journey towards a new home and lifestyle in Pierce County.