Karen Best

A Timely Reflection on Our Founding Documents

In light of today’s turbulent political climate and growing concern for the health of our democracy, I’ve found myself drawn more deeply to the U.S. Constitution and the founding principles of our nation.

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Washington, D.C. with my friend Martha, with one purpose in mind: to see our nation’s founding documents in person. Standing before the original Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights at the National Archives was both humbling and profoundly moving. These beautifully handwritten documents are more than just pages from history—they are the foundation of the freedoms we cherish.

When was the last time you read the Constitution—or even a portion of it? If you’re like me, your memory of those high school civics lessons may be a bit hazy. To help refresh your knowledge, I’ve included a brief, engaging video I found on YouTube that provides a quick tutorial. What Is the U.S. Constitution?

As we celebrate Independence Day this year, let’s take a moment to reflect on what our freedom truly represents—and how vital it is that we protect the fragile gift of democracy entrusted to We the People.

The real estate market has slowed down a bit in Port Ludlow and surrounding areas. However, this trend does not appear to be true for Kitsap County. The attached article may help explain why we’re seeing a slowdown in Port Ludlow but not in Kitsap County.

One factor influencing this shift is the broader impact of remote work. As more people work from home, proximity to major employment hubs is no longer a primary driver of housing decisions. This has led some buyers to prioritize communities with better internet infrastructure, more amenities, or a stronger sense of connectivity—factors that may favor Kitsap County over Port Ludlow. Additionally, some remote workers are seeking more affordable areas with vibrant communities and services, which can make larger towns more appealing than quieter, rural locations.

It’s also worth noting that Jefferson County continues to attract retirees, which shapes the local housing market differently than areas with a younger, more mobile workforce.

Another factor contributing to buyer hesitancy is concern over tariffs and their potential effects on investments and construction costs. Until that uncertainty is resolved, I expect to see continued caution among prospective buyers.

Click on the link below to learn more:

How remote work has changed the real estate landscape