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.

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.

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. Marzano 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

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.

Tacoma Country Club

Tacoma is a mid-sized urban port city located in Pierce County, Washington and is a little over 40 miles away from Seattle and about 20 miles away from  Olympia. Lakewood is an outstanding city that is actually located within the Tacoma – Pierce County area where you can find the prestigious Tacoma Country and Golf Club. Tacoma is the second-largest city in the Puget Sound area and it serves as the center of business activity for the region. Tacoma adopted its name after the nearby Mount Rainier, which was originally known as Mount Tahoma.

The Tacoma-Pierce County area as well as Lakewood, have  been named as the most livable areas in the country and were also recently listed as the 19^th most walkable cities in the country. On the other hand, the area  is also ranked as the most stressed-out city in the country due to its prominence in the business world. Besides the thriving economy and the wide range of opportunities available to local residents and visitors, Lakewood has much to offer. Adventure, culture, entertainment, recreation and the finest real estate opportunities in the county are all available to individuals who are looking to visit or to relocate to Lakewood. The city is a great place for individuals who are looking for adventure through the woods of Mount Rainier, for culture and entertainment at local museums, for real estate opportunities at the  Tacoma Country and Golf Club and luxury accommodations and outdoor opportunities for those interested in a delightful game of golf and the luxurious amenities that come along with a golf club membership.

Tacoma Country and Golf Club Homes for Sale

Tacoma Country and Golf Club is an extremely popular destination where you can find top-notch golf courses that are ideally situated along salt-water shores so you can enjoy spectacular views while working on your swing. The picturesque and award-winning championship courses make golf enjoyable for competitors and spectators. Golf is more than just a competitive sport, it is also a social event in which competitors can interact, socialize and enjoy a pleasant and easygoing sport in beautiful natural surroundings. Individuals who enjoy golf and the picturesque views around the golf courses are often extremely interested in Tacoma Country and Golf Club Homes for Sale. The wide range of Tacoma Country and Golf Club Homes for Sale are dedicated to meet the recreational and social needs of residents and visitors alike.

You will be pleasantly surprised to learn that there are more than 20 outstanding golf courses to choose from in Tacoma and Pierce County. The region is ideal for pros as well as novice players and even onlookers who are not engaging in a competitive game can enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views that the area has to offer. Tacoma is also home to the Chambers Bay Golf Course, which was the site of the 2010 U.S. Amateur and will be the location of the 2015 U.S. Open.

Whether you are looking for an average single-family home, a luxurious and expansive estate near the golf courses or even a golf club home in an exclusive country club property you are sure to find the finest selection and inventory of beautiful real estate in Tacoma.Pierce County Homes for Sale widely range in style, size and price range in order to meet the needs and budget of every homebuyer.

Living at Tacoma Country and Golf Club

Living at Tacoma Country and Golf Club offers residents an exclusive lifestyle characterized by luxury, beauty, privacy and outstanding amenities. The homes at Tacoma Country and Golf Club are located around championship golf courses and are designed with residents in mind. The real estate opportunities at Tacoma Country and Golf Club are a rare find, are truly unique and are custom designed by award-winning architects. The homes range in style and size, but many are characterized by open floor plans, top-notch craftsmanship, quality building materials and elegant finishes such as marble floors and granite countertops. One of the biggest benefits of Living at Tacoma Country and Golf Club is that residents have access to the luxurious country club amenities such as fitness centers, community pool, tennis courts, social events and so much more.

If you are interested in Tacoma Country and Golf Club Homes for Sale make sure to connect with local real estate expert Vickie Jennings. Vickie is an experienced and professional real estate agent who is committed to meeting and exceeding the real estate expectations of every client. To learn more about Vickie, her wide range of services and current listings in Lakewood make sure to browse through the website. You will find multiple helpful resources, information about neighborhoods, current listings and so much more. Contact Vickie if you have any questions or if you are ready to begin looking for your dream home in Lakewood.

Market Updates

Pierce County Local Market Updates show that home prices for single-family homes in Pierce County are continuously climbing and increasing, but the inventory of homes on the market keeps dwindling and has seriously affected home sales in the first quarter of 2014. The median price for a single-family home in Pierce County in April cooled to $220,000. This shows little to no growth from last year. Real estate experts blame slow April sales on the stubbornly tight inventory of homes and the slow construction of new homes and developments. Many potential sellers who are interested in upgrading to a bigger property are hesitant to sell because they are not sure whether they will be able to find something on the market that they like or will be able to purchase.

Home sales have dropped more than 20 percent for two consecutive quarters as the supply of home listings drifted toward a record low in March 2013. Many realtors and other professionals in the industry expected the rise in prices and the drop in underwater mortgages to result in many new listings and a recovered market, but so far this has not been the case. There are various factors that are contributing to the low sales and slow market in Pierce County. At the end of 2013 15 percent of mortgaged homes were still underwater and homeowners who recently refinanced while interest rates were below 4.25 percent are not likely to sell and buy another home because their payments would end up being almost 30 percent higher due to rising rates and prices.

Even if buyers who want to buy bigger homes with upgrades are financially ready to sell, they are afraid that they will not be able to find a new home in the current Pierce County Real Estate market.

Q1 Market Trends

Q1 Market Trends are showing that inventory is so tight in some areas that houses are selling for as much as $100,000 above listing price. The inflation and the homes selling above market value are instilling fear among potential buyers, real estate experts, homeowners and lenders who are afraid of experiencing another housing bubble. Real estate experts are surprised that lenders are approving so many financing deals that are selling far above list price. They are worried that borrowers who put down a down payment of five percent or less could be put under extreme economic stress should they experience a reduction in work hours or a temporary layoff and this could in turn lead to another recession.

The Pierce County housing market needs to see inventory numbers grow because the current total inventory combined with the current pace of sales shows that there is slightly more than a four month supply of homes available right now. In King County the market is even tighter with a little more than a two-month’s supply of homes available.

Q1 Market Trends also show that average U.S. rates on fixed mortgages rose due to the slow home sales at the beginning of the year. The average rate for a 30-year loan rose to 4.33 percent from 4.27 percent and the average rate for a 15-year mortgage increased to 3.39 percent from 3.33 percent. Mortgage rates have risen almost a full percentage point from last year.

Buying a Home in Pierce County

Homebuyers who are interested in Buying a Home in Pierce County in today’s market need to be prepared for bidding wars and they need to move quickly. Due to the tight inventory current trends show that it is a complete seller’s market right now and buyer’s need to yield to the seller. Many homebuyers in the past quarter have found that they need to put an offer in right away when they find a home they like and they need to be prepared to pay above asking price.

If you are interested in learning more about Pierce County market trends or current listings don’t hesitate to connect with local real estate expert Vickie Jennings. As a certified specialist Vickie is qualified to assist you with all of your real estate needs and her personal mission is to assist and guide buyers and sellers through every aspect of the real estate process. Personal and world-class service is Vickie’s top priority and she always goes above and beyond client expectations in order to meet their needs and successfully achieve their real estate goals in a timely and efficient manner. If you are interested in learning more about Vickie and her work make sure to read current and past Testimonials so you can be assured of Vickie’s professionalism, expertise and knowledge. Connect today to set up a time to meet Vickie and to discuss your real estate options in Pierce County.

First Class Service

As part of my goal to always be able to provide the best service to my clients I am always looking for ways to improve myself. Recently one of the things I did to accomplish this was to attend the VA & Military Real Estate Specialist course. The key components to this class are to gain a better understanding of how to guide military and veteran clients through the home ownership process, to learn how to identify who qualifies for a VA loan, how to help clients through the process of home buying and selling, plus some of the unique needs of the military and veteran client. Also, this class helps to identify other VAMRES REALTORS® and widen your networking reach. By earning this certification I hope to be able to better help my VA clients and their families.

-Vickie

Housing Market

Great Article from Yahoo!

Home sales are slowly climbing back, thanks to investor demand, improving consumer confidence in housing, and the surprising return of former homeowners who once walked away from their commitments.

Click Here to read the full article.