IN THE SPOTLIGHT December 15, 2023

Toys For Tots!

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE! November 24, 2023

Holiday Happenings in Jefferson County

The holiday season is upon us, and there’s no better time to get creative and enjoy some festive fun in Jefferson County. Whether you’re a local resident or planning a holiday getaway, Jefferson County offers an abundance of exciting and creative activities to make your holiday season memorable. From Holiday Art and Craft Fairs, Tree Lightings, Holiday Carols, Toy Drives, a Bake Sale, Tree Donations, and a Gingerbread House Contest, there’s a little something for everyone.

Below is a link from our Port Townsend Leader with a list of all the “goings on” this season: https://www.ptleader.com/stories/holiday-celebrations-events-planned-throughout-jefferson-county,78484

 

IN THE SPOTLIGHT November 24, 2023

Getting to the Heart of the Holidays: Fond Memories of My Past Celebrations

I love the diversity of the holiday season. There are many different celebrations in December, one of which may reflect your own heritage and belief system. My father was a minister in a small farming community in Oregon when I was growing up, and our traditions rooted in Christian beliefs. I looked forward to participating in Christmas pageants at school and church.

I look back fondly on the memory of our youth group being transported by a tractor-drawn wagon filled with hay bales, scrabbling out to sing Christmas carols in front of homes throughout the rural community. I remember visiting Lipman’s Department Store lining up for a cookie from the Cinnamon Bear and hoping he wouldn’t recognize me as my brothers and I went back for seconds…and thirds. I remember trimming our fresh Christmas tree with colored lights and tinsel, which my mother insisted had to be hung individually.

What I don’t remember (except for a couple) are the gifts I received. As I have grown older, I have come to realize that what matters most are the traditions that come from the time we spend with each other. Time spent with friends and loved ones adds to the texture and richness of our lives. It is truly the greatest gift of all. This year, no matter what holiday and traditions you celebrate, my wish for you is the gift of time.

REAL ESTATE NEWS & INFO November 24, 2023

Change On The Horizon: WA State Agency Law

On January 1, 2024, important revisions to the law that governs real estate brokerage relationships (RCW 18.86) in Washington State – otherwise known as the “Agency Law” – become effective. These are the first significant revisions since the Agency Law took effect in 1997. The revisions, which are explained in detail in this bulletin and set forth in Senate Bill 5191, include the following:

 

  • Requiring real estate firms to enter into a written brokerage services agreement with a buyer as soon as reasonably practical after commencing real estate brokerage services for the buyer;
  • Changing the term “dual agent” to “limited dual agent” to reflect that a broker representing both a buyer and a seller in the same transaction is limited in the representation that the broker can provide;
  • Giving buyers and sellers the clear choice whether to consent to an individual broker acting as a limited dual agent by requiring the consent to limited dual agency to be separately initialed by the consumer;
  • Clarifying that a broker owes certain duties in RCW 18.86.030 to all parties in a transaction;
  • Ensuring complete transparency with regard to compensation by requiring that real estate firms disclose to all parties any compensation offered to a firm by another party or another real estate firm;
  • Modernizing and simplifying the “pamphlet” that brokers must provide to consumers which explains general information about real estate brokerage relationships. Below is a link to the Legal Bulletin from the NorthWest MLS.

https://members.nwmls.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/LB_224.pdf

 

IN THE SPOTLIGHT November 20, 2023

Gratitude For What Matters by Willard Aldrich

Thanksgiving has always been a special holiday for me usually gathered round a table laden with delicious food and cherished family. Since moving to Port Ludlow/Port Townsend, Thanksgiving has almost always included my father. ​​​​​​​My father passed away about two years ago at the age of 96. He spent the last half of his life writing poetry. It became a tradition for my father to read a poem he had written for that particular Thanksgiving. I would like to share one of the poems he wrote in 2018 that I have found especially meaningful.

 

Today, a symbol of our continuous gratitude, a reflection of the spirit of Plymouth and Jamestown, a giving of thanks for shared values and virtues, that sustained them then and sustain us now in the face of the unknown and uncertain.

Theirs more than a thank you for wild fowl and what could be gathered from the forest.

Ours more than stocks and cheap goods.

What sustained them then was kinship, friendship, and citizenship.

What today could we be thankful for more than these around this table? Family, friends, community.​​​​​​​

~Willard Aldrich

REAL ESTATE NEWS & INFO November 2, 2023

Is It Time To Have Your Septic System Inspected?

The health and longevity of your septic system is very important. When did you last have your septic system inspected?

Regular inspections help prevent septic system failures. Jefferson County provides rebates for inspections and some maintenance tasks. Below is information from Jefferson County Public Health. 

The link below takes you to Jefferson County’s website where you can fill out forms to request an inspection or contact them for more information about your system and rebates.

 

https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/665/Resources-for-Homeowners

IN THE SPOTLIGHT November 2, 2023

Caregivers Extraordinaire!

My husband, Laury, has dementia. We are very fortunate that, so far, he has been able to live at home. This is primarily because of his wonderful caregivers; Beth, Susan, and Katie. These three angels are dependable, caring, flexible, and unbelievably patient. They work together to provide Laury with expert care, creating meals, conversation, and diversions to help him fill his days with meaning and security. I never worry about Laury while he is in their care.

Thank you, Beth, Susan, and Katie. I am forever grateful for you lovely women who have become friends

… more like family, really.

 

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE! October 30, 2023

Halloween Happenings today in Port Townsend and Port Ludlow!

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE! October 8, 2023

Midnight at the Masquerade Ball Port Ludlow

Get ready for a night of mystery and enchantment at the “Midnight at the Masquerade Ball Port Ludlow,” where masks, music, and magic collide

About this Event

Midnight at the Masquerade Ball Port Ludlow

Join us for an enchanting evening at the Midnight at the Masquerade Ball in beautiful Port Ludlow! Get ready for a night filled with mystery, elegance, and intrigue. Don your most exquisite attire and your favorite mask as we transport you to a world of glamour and secrecy.

Date: Saturday, October 14, 2023

Time: 7:00 PM (Pacific Daylight Time)

Location: 1 Heron Road, Port Ludlow, WA 98365

Get ready to solve a billionaire’s death, indulge in delectable cuisine, and sip on delightful cocktails. The sunroom decorations will create a magical ambiance that will leave you spellbound in the mystery.

Embrace the spirit of the night by wearing your most captivating mask. Let your imagination run wild as you mingle with other guests, each adorned in their own unique disguise. Who knows what secrets and clues will be revealed throughout the night?

This event promises an unforgettable experience, so mark your calendars and secure your spot for the Midnight at the Masquerade Ball Port Ludlow. Get ready to immerse yourself in a night of elegance, mystery, and enchantment!

Click here for more details:

https://allevents.in/port%20ludlow/midnight-at-the-masquerade-ball-port-ludlow/10000705717830027

REAL ESTATE NEWS & INFO October 7, 2023

Minor Kitchen Remodel 101

 

**Why a Minor Kitchen Remodel Can Significantly Increase Your Home’s Value**

A kitchen, often touted as the heart of the home, plays a pivotal role in determining a property’s overall appeal and value. Many homeowners, when thinking about home improvements, consider major overhauls that can be both time-consuming and costly. However, minor kitchen remodels can be just as impactful in enhancing a home’s value. Here are some reasons why:

1. **First Impressions Matter:** For many potential buyers, the kitchen is one of the first rooms they inspect. A refreshed and modern kitchen can make a strong positive impression, leading them to view the rest of the home in a favorable light.

2. **Functional Improvements:** Minor remodels, such as adding a new backsplash, updating cabinet handles, or installing a new faucet, can make the kitchen more functional. Improved functionality can translate to a higher perceived value for potential buyers.

3. **Modern Aesthetics:** Trends in kitchen design evolve over time. Simple updates like repainting cabinets, upgrading countertops, or installing new lighting fixtures can transform an outdated kitchen into a contemporary space.

4. **Cost-Efficient:** Compared to a full kitchen renovation, minor remodels are more affordable. This means homeowners can achieve a significant return on investment (ROI) without breaking the bank.

5. **Faster Sale:** A visually appealing and modern kitchen can attract more potential buyers, leading to quicker sales. Faster sales often translate to higher sale prices, as properties that linger on the market can be perceived as less desirable.

6. **Energy Savings:** Minor updates, like adding a more efficient faucet or upgrading to LED lighting, can lead to energy savings. These eco-friendly changes not only reduce utility bills but can also appeal to environmentally-conscious buyers.

7. **Enhanced Enjoyment:** While the primary focus of this post is on increasing home value for potential sale, it’s worth noting that homeowners themselves can derive more pleasure from a newly remodeled space, even if it’s just a minor update.

Click on this article to get more great ideas and tips for remodeling your kitchen.

 

https://www.trendinghomenews.com/2016/08/minor-kitchen-remodels-can-yield-major-roi/?token=08D66B52-DAD1-48FC-9BA7-A8A077584EFE&final=1