It List - February 2017

Seattle currently has the 2nd lowest rate of home sales in the United States. Sitting just below the sought-after city of San Francisco (and the outlying Oakland and Hayward areas), Seattle only has 1 out of every 263 homes for sale. Comparatively, Portland, OR currently has 1 out of every 170 homes available. This ranking has and will continue to create increased competition within the housing market. READ MORE... Condominium sales in downtown Seattle rose by 10.7% in January 2017 over the previous year while median home prices climbed by 47.9% and set a new benchmark at $668,000. An imbalance of supply and demand is also noted by properties spending fewer days on market, which dropped 55.9% from an average of 111 days in January 2016 to just 49 days last month. READ MORE... Never before has a residence been designed to fit the exact specifications desired by the future owners. This grand penthouse sits on the 35th floor of Waiea, the flagship building for the master planned community of Ward Village located in close proximity to Waikiki. This 6 bedroom, 6.5 bathroom residence sprawled over 8,532 sq. ft. features a spectacular rooftop lanai over 2,000 sq. ft. and your own private ocean facing infinity pool. Swim under the sky with perpetual 360 degree views of the Pacific Ocean, Diamond Head, mountains and Waikiki. Seamless indoor and outdoor living on a single level. A dedicated elevator provides the utmost privacy and security. This is truly an unprecedented opportunity to create a unique and lasting legacy. Offered at $35,000,000. READ MORE... This Spring, for the second year in a row, Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty is sponsoring the publishing of the all-Mandarin magazine “Seattle Luxury Living”, which is catered to Chinese consumers in the Pacific Northwest as well as those seeking real estate and lifestyle opportunities throughout the Seattle metro area. Tiger Oak Media, owner of Seattle Magazine, Seattle Bride, and Seattle Business Magazine is the publisher and will include exclusive real estate content provided by RSIR along with featured listings, lifestyle editorial, and third-party advertisers. READ MORE... Last month, I attended the East Meets West meeting, hosted by Realogics Sotheby's International Realty's Asia Services Group and JayMarc Homes. It was an educational experience, as we discussed how the demand for real estate from foreign buyers has never been higher. In fact, it is predicted that this demand will double by 2025. China has become the dominant source of foreign direct investment in the United States, overtaking Canada in 2015 with $22B in home sales. The Seattle/Bellevue metro area is in a unique position and learning about foreign investment from experts was a refreshing perspective.  It is clear that Canada's tax-policy changes are driving overseas investors south of the border - Seattle to be specific. According to the Wall Street Journal, "The tax policy is aimed at making homes in the city more affordable for local residents, who have seen prices soar by nearly 50% over the past three years. The city of Vancouver also introduced a separate vacancy tax of 1% on the assessed value of an empty property." Since these policies have taken affect, searches for Seattle properties in China have jumped 125% year-over-year.  READ MORE... On February 26th, the 400-acre gated community of The Highlands will be open to the public for escorted tours. Please contact me if you are interested in touring one of the 15 estates available for purchase.   READ MORE... Your comprehensive guide, take a peek at what’s going on! From Valentine's Brunch Cruise and the Flower and Garden Show at Fisher Pavilion, to Mindfulness Meditation at Chihuly Garden & Glass, here’s what’s happening around the sound this February. EXPLORE EVENTS... Perhaps many of you have taken advantage of the Town Hall Lecture Series, but it was new to me as of last year (the last to know perhaps!). I was introduced to this unique venue by my mother to listen to the famed New York Times columnist David Brooks as he had just published his latest book: The Road to Character. If you have not been there before, it is housed in a historic, beautiful  building on the corner of 8th & Seneca Street. There is also a little “pub” on the main floor to enjoy a glass of wine or coffee before or after a lecture. Prices are very affordable and the speakers are truly incredible. I have attached a link to the upcoming lecture series (sadly, Alec Baldwin’s is sold out already!). I hope that you might enjoy this special treasure in our community. READ MORE...

It List - January 2017

Last month my brokerage, Realogics Sotheby's International Realty, was featured on Inman News in an article detailing its unique approach, market differentiation and record-breaking 2016 sales. RSIR has built a reputation for its outside-the-box marketing ideas and for having a global perspective. I am very proud to be affiliated with this industry-leading company and am excited to see what 2017 brings!  READ MORE... With the arrival of a new year, I enjoy looking back on the significant events that defined the industry I work in and my company. I am thankful for family, friends and colleagues who give my business a special meaning and inspire me to drive forward. For the first time in 2016, Realogics SIR crested past the $1 billion marker in home sales and joined an esteemed and established peer group of the largest real estate brands in Washington State. We also enjoyed a number of other industry leading accolades along the way. Learn about them below.  READ MORE... I am excited to bring you this month’s event calendar. Your comprehensive guide, take a peek at what’s going on! From Chinese New Year celebrations in the International District and a David Bowie Party at SIFF Cinema, to the Seattle Wedding Show at the Washington Convention Center, here’s what’s happening around the sound this January. READ MORE... My clients are truly the heart of my business. Hear from some of my past Broadmoor clients in this short film to learn about their experience working with me!  WATCH THE VIDEO... My IT pick for the month of January is a book that I read over the holiday…actually, I listened to it via Audible while I went on my walks. This was such a great, fun read. In the audio book version, it was fun because each character is narrated by a different person…so, you really get the feel for each character. The book reminded me of the book Gone Girl.  If you liked that, you will love this one! READ MORE...

It List - December 2016

The Wealth-X Billionaire Census is the only comprehensive study of the global billionaire population, "providing unprecedented insight into the assets, lifestyle, motivations and social networks of the world's wealthiest individuals. This year's report details the life cycle of the average billionaire, from education and accumulation of wealth to philanthropy and transfer of wealth." READ THE REPORT... Since the tax on foreign property investors went into effect in Vancouver, real estate brokers in Seattle have been busy. "With Chinese investors - the largest pool of foreign capital - looking for a place to put their cash, the unintended consequence of the fee has been to push demand to cities such as Seattle and Toronto. For Vancouver investors, Seattle is a lure because it’s a waterfront city just a few hours away by car. It’s also more affordable than other West Coast destinations." READ MORE... Since the tax on foreign property investors went into effect in Vancouver, real estate brokers in Seattle have been busy. "With Chinese investors - the largest pool of foreign capital - looking for a place to put their cash, the unintended consequence of the fee has been to push demand to cities such as Seattle and Toronto. For Vancouver investors, Seattle is a lure because it’s a waterfront city just a few hours away by car. It’s also more affordable than other West Coast destinations." READ MORE... My clients are truly the heart of my business. Hear from some of my past clients in this short film to learn about their experience working with me!  WATCH THE VIDEO... Despite the increasingly high home prices around the Seattle metro area over the past few years, homebuyers still had one saving grace: very low interest rates. However, as mortgage rates quickly begin to climb, this safe haven is beginning to disappear; so much so that the Puget Sound region saw a 30% increase in home sales last month.  READ MORE... My December "It" Pick is this precious gem, located right in the heart of Madison Park - Scoop Du Jour. The owners are a father and son team (Mr. Washington Junior & Senior!), who have owned and operated “Scoop” for over 32 years. Their storefront has undergone a huge transformation and is now painted a rich dark navy blue. Inside, one still finds ample seating and a TV for watching…cozy & comforting. When I asked what their best seller was, Mr. Washington Junior quickly replied “our Scoop Burger” followed by anything chocolate in the ice cream world (Vanilla Salted Caramel Fudge Brownie Swirl - are you kidding me!). So happy to have this treasured neighborhood eatery open for business again!

It List - November 2016

2307 43rd Avenue East, Seattle | One of 3 private residences with unparalleled views of Lake Washington, seductive custom designed interiors, a private rooftop deck with BBQ, hot tub, re-pit and multiple entertaining spaces with top-of-the-world vistas! Oh yes…an unheard of, 4 secure parking spaces in the private garage. A sophisticated lock & leave luxury residence! Offered at $3,150,000. READ MORE >> Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty was recognized by The Puget Sound Business Journal among the top 100 “Fastest Growing Private Companies” in Washington State, according to their 2016 Book of Lists, for the fifth year in a row! I am thrilled to be a part of such an innovative company. I can't wait to see what 2017 brings!  READ MORE >> Last week, I had the pleasure of attending a preview of Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty's new Bainbridge Island branch, “Island Living Gallery” at 240 Winslow Way East. Occupying approximately one half of the Old Hardware Store – a nostalgic icon of Bainbridge Island heritage built in 1948 – our global real estate brand is poised for growth. RSIR will collaborate with the adjoining restaurant and bar Bruciato, operated by famed chef and Bainbridge Island resident Brendan McGill of Hitchcock, which is set to open by the end of the year. A public grand opening celebration will take place in the New Year. To hear more about upcoming events, please contact me directly! READ MORE >> The battle for most expensive housing market outside of California has been a close one for the past few months between Seattle and Boston. We finally overtook our Northeast counterpart last month, when the median home value in the Seattle metro area hit $401,000. READ MORE >> Last Thursday, I hosted a private event at my home for top Seattle Realogics SIR brokers to celebrate the upcoming opening of the Madison Park Office, Park House. It was a great opportunity to connect with top brokers, including Regional VP of Sotheby's International Realty, Cal Lyford. From a champagne toast and delicious bites by Belle Epicurian to brainstorming business ideas for the coming year, a great time was had by all. We even got a sneak peak of office renderings, including the very sophisticated interior design work. I truly cannot wait to bring my clients to this jewel box of an office! I love TED Talks. The company embraces the global community, welcoming people from every discipline and culture who seek a deeper understanding of the world. This month listen to Sal Khan, a hedge fund analyst who believes that the education system should be focused on helping students master subjects, not just score highly on standardized tests. "Would you choose to build a house on top of an unfinished foundation? Of course not. Why, then, do we rush students through education when they haven't always grasped the basics?" Listen to how Khan plans to take this complicated subject and turn struggling students into scholars by helping them master concepts at their own pace.” READ MORE >>

It List - October 2016

2000 38th Avenue E, Seattle | Distinguished brick stairways & manicured hedges surround Canterbury Cottage, a tasteful, shingled hideaway nestled in the heart of Madison Park. The perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, the shingled home evokes the feeling of a charming New England village. Open the door to relaxed elegance and exquisite finishes, where the formal living space leads out toward a front terrace perfect for a morning cup of coffee or peaceful evening. Offered at $2,275,000. READ MORE >>  |  WATCH THE VIDEO >> Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty announced earlier this month an exclusive partnership with GeekWire, a fast-growing and broadly followed website that has become a daily news source and events podium for the high-tech industry in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. The dynamic platform will showcase properties, highlight market trends and feature real estate sponsors. A real time voting tool puts consumers in the driver’s seat to select the current “Geek Home of the Week” as more than 1 million unique visitors per month visit the website and 25,000 active subscribers digest the daily newsletter. READ MORE >> "We have had the pleasure of working with Laura on two separate transactions over the years. She has represented us as buyer and seller. She is a consummate professional. She is knowledgeable about the market, has access to innovative marketing strategies, is articulate and a good listener. Laura takes great pride in her work and it shows. If she sees a potential problem, she is quick to assess it and find a satisfactory solution. We heartily recommend her. She has done an excellent job on our behalf." READ MORE TESTIMONIALS >> Another recent sale of mine was featured in Realogics Sotheby’s Realty’s Q3 Market Report. This home, also in Broadmoor, sold for $6,150,000 with multiple offers, setting a new price per square foot record, part of a trend showing that median home prices in single-family neighborhoods around Seattle are establishing new benchmark levels exceeding their prior peak in 2007. READ MORE >> I am thrilled to share that Realogics Sotheby's International Realty made the annual Puget Sound Business Journal list of Fastest-Growing Private Companies for the fifth year in a row! In a recent article entitled “100 Fastest-Growing Private Companies pack economic wallop,” Becky Monk reveals that “the 100 companies that made the Business Journal’s 2016 list collectively had revenue of nearly $3.17 billion in 2015, an increase of 137.26 percent over their total revenue in 2013.” READ MORE >> Join our collection of lifestyle partners during this unparalleled property tour for brokers and prospective home buyers in collaboration with the Savor the San Juans experience happening now. The property tour is fully hosted with ground transportation and yacht transfers between the waterfront estates during the broker tour day on October 5th and viewings and transfers are by appointment for prospective buyers on October 8th and 9th. RSVPs REQUIRED: REGISTER HERE >> Just one day after it went live on the market, Seattle’s Escala penthouse (which served as inspiration for the “Fifty Shades of Grey” trilogy) sold. The luxury condominium, listed by Realogics Sotheby's International Realty, garnered local media attention both for its role in E.L. James’ pop-culture phenomenon and for selling in less than 1 day on the market. READ MORE >> In a recent re-cap of the most notable sales in the Seattle area for Curbed Seattle, Sean Keeley writes that the week's “biggest sale,” my client's Broadmoor Georgian Colonial, “spent all of two days on the market before going pending” at $3.6 million. As Keeley writes, “if you were asking someone what the houses in Broadmoor are like, you could probably just point them in the direction of this place and say, ‘That.’” READ MORE >> For October's "It" Pick, I decided to feature Peel Tech, a company that prides itself on providing in-house tech support without the technical difficulty. In an age that focuses so much on the latest technology, I very much appreciate this philosophy! Working on almost all platforms, devices and brands, Peel Tech offers concierge-style support for all of your personal, home and small business technology challenges. According to a recent Seattle Times article, "For consumers, Peel Tech will come out and fix a technical problem for $80 an hour. The startup also provides services to small businesses for $90 to $120 an hour. Peel Tech has formed partnerships with a few retirement communities to help residents any time they need it." So, if you are looking for reliable tech support in the Seattle area, I would highly suggest this fabulous startup company!  READ FULL FEATURE IN THE SEATTLE TIMES >>

It List - August 2016

On August 12th, I attended the second annual Soirée en Blanc at the Mercer Island home of our fearless leaders, Dean & Stacy Jones. It was a fabulous evening celebrating the close-knit network of brokers, vendors and clients who make up the RSIR family.   READ MORE >> I am thrilled to share that I am featured in the latest edition of Seattle Magazine as a featured Madison Park & Broadmoor specialist! The Pacific Northwest is home to a diverse collection of communities, dynamic lifestyles and real estate micro-climates. I invite you to discover market trends and perspectives in your area, where every residence is a Realogics Sotheby's International Realty home.   READ THE REPORT >> 2030 Parkside Drive E, Seattle | This treasured Georgian Colonial, sited on an expansive, flat double lot in Broadmoor, went pending in 2 days! Handsome "curb appeal" greets you, from the symmetry of the home & divided light windows to the lovely brick pathways and mature holly hedge. Offered at $3,395,000. READ THE FEATURE >> Foreign buyers in Vancouver will be paying more for investment properties this month (beginning August 2). The Canadian provincial government of British Columbia has enacted a 15% real property transfer tax on foreigner-purchased properties in Metropolitan Vancouver, adding $300,000 to the cost of a two-million-dollar home. READ MORE >> For many celebrities, successful executives, and business owners at the pinnacle of their careers, a legacy home is chief among the rewards for which they have been striving. It offers a place of refuge from their hectic routine, and for some, a place of productive solitude that allows them to focus and reflect. The Legacy Homes Report, produced by Realogics Sotheby's International Realty, compares the markets of the San Juan Islands in Washington and the North & South Shore of Long Island, New York. READ THE REPORT >> Home of the Day is a feature presented by the Puget Sound Business Journal and Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty. With a unique listing featured EACH DAY, this is your invitation to view some of Puget Sound’s most luxurious properties. Year-to-date, the program has reached some incredible marks. The photo galleries have experienced over 600,000 page views by 40,000 unique visitors, with more than 1 million photos seen (85% of users view all photos in each gallery). The daily afternoon newsletter reaches 23,197 subscribers. I can't wait to see how these numbers grow by the end of the year.  VIEW HOME OF THE DAY >> If you have read my newsletter before, you know that I like to listen to podcasts or audio books while I walk. I am bringing this book to your attention because I have not only read it when it first came out in 2003, but I have continued to listen to it over the years in audio format (The Modern Scholar series through Audible) which Margaret MacMillan herself narrates. Professor Macmillan is an exceptional history writer: engaging, direct and interesting (sometimes even funny), but also a wide-ranging thinker who see and explains the vast sweep of history. Her knowledge of world history and her ability to explain it concisely and in a way that is so engaging to the reader is exceptional. So many of the decisions that were made during this time have had ripples that we are still dealing with today, and they are fully illustrated in her explanations of the various ethnic claims for land and self-rule; her ability to compare and contrast these claims is extraordinary. The bottom line is that this is truly a history book that is very hard to put down, and also one that can give one so much insight into the complicated issues that we are still dealing with in 2016. I highly recommend both the book and the audio version (she is such a fantastic narrator, honestly I might even say I like the audio version best). READ MORE >>