Sotheby's International Realty® Brand Welcomes Napa Valley Firm

On May 3rd, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC announced that Gates Estates in Yountville, California is the newest member of its real estate network and will now operate as Gates Estates Sotheby’s International Realty.

The firm is owned and operated by Cyndi Gates, a seasoned Napa Valley real estate professional who has been in the business since 1979.  Gates Estates Sotheby’s International Realty will serve the northern Napa Valley region including Napa, Yountville, Oakville, Rutherford, St. Helena and Calistoga, California.  With this addition, the Sotheby’s International Realty® network now has 115 branded offices throughout the state of California.

“Yountville is a quintessential Napa Valley town with wine country charm and gourmet dining,” said Philip White, president and chief executive officer of Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC.  “The area is a blossoming luxury residential real estate market, and we are proud to welcome Gates Estates Sotheby’s International Realty to our network.”

“Having worked in Napa Valley real estate for over 35 years, I have seen the region flourish into the wine country and vacation destination it is today,” said Gates.  “I established my own firm in 2009 to better serve the community I have come to know and love. As a boutique residential real estate brokerage with a concierge-style approach, our goal is to smoothly guide our clients through their real estate transactions, making their experience effortless yet memorable to develop long-term relationships.  Affiliating with theSotheby’s International Realty brand will elevate our already successful business and broaden our marketing horizons, allowing us to strengthen the level of service we provide to our clients.”

Gates Estates Sotheby’s International Realty is located at 6550 Washington Street in Yountville.

The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has more than 18,800 affiliated independent sales associates located in approximately 835 offices in 63 countries and territories worldwide.  Gates Estates Sotheby’s International Realty listings will be marketed on the sothebysrealty.com global website.  In addition to the referral opportunities and widened exposure generated from this source, the firm’s brokers and clients will benefit from an association with the Sotheby’s auction house and worldwide Sotheby’s International Realty marketing programs.  Each office is independently owned and operated.

Featured in Seattle Magazine: My City. Your Neighborhood.

I am excited to share that I am featured in this month's Seattle Magazine as a part of an insert put together by Realogics Sotheby's International Realty. The Pacific Northwest is home to numerous cities, each with their own diverse neighborhoods. Whether it's in Seattle, the Eastside or on Bainbridge Island, residents and visitors alike enjoy unique culture, boutique shops and local eateries. 

Check out what I have to say on the Issaquah & Sammamish neighborhoods!

"Having raised our families in the Issaquah/Sammamish area, we know and love the schools, community spirit and atmosphere. The area is home to golf courses and parks, and offers a quieter alternative to Bellevue and Seattle's hustle and bustle."

Explore the E-book >>

Seattle Among the World's Most "Future-Ready" Cities

In a recent article published by the Seattle PI, Daniel Demay declares “Seattle among the World’s Most ‘Future-Ready’ Cities,” according to a report released by Dell. As Demay begins, “say what you will about the tech boom in Seattle – it’s good for having a future-ready economy” as it was ranked 13th among 50 cities around the world.

Referencing the release from Dell, the article reads, “‘We live in a digital age in which the power of innovation to transform our world is all around us,’ said Liz Matthews, Dell’s executive director for corporate brand and purpose, in the release. ‘The cities where we live are faced with new challenges every day, from supporting a growing population and building a thriving culture, to fueling economic opportunity for everyone.’”

Demay continues with an explanation of the study, describing that it “measures whether people had the right skills to drive social and economic change, whether the infrastructure was ready to support progress and whether the economy could help sustain innovation and growth.”

Among the highlights? Education, “with 92 percent of adults holding a high school diploma and 23 percent having earned a master’s degree or higher” in addition to “internet access, with 88 percent internet adoption, putting it sixth in the world and No. 3 among large U.S. cities.”

Given that the Daily Journal of Commerce reported last December that Seattle’s population could surpass San Francisco’s by 2040 and that there are exciting new projects in the pipeline including NEXUS, recently announced by The Burrard Group, preparing for growth in the Emerald City is increasingly important and it feels good knowing that Seattle ranks well among the most renowned cities worldwide.

Read the Full Report Released by Dell >>

Tax Day Falls on April 18th due to Leap Year

Taxes, as Benjamin Franklin once noted, are one of life's only two certainties, along with death. As tax day quickly approaches, I wanted to share some interesting facts about the IRS! 

1. This year, tax day falls on Monday, April 18th due to Leap Year. 
2. When it was first created, the IRS was referred to as the Bureau of Internal Revenue. In the 1950’s the identity was modified to the Internal Revenue Service.
3. The preliminary revenue tax was originally 3% on people making over $800. Today the prime tax bracket consists of a 35% tax.
4. The IRS was created by President Abraham Lincoln throughout the Civil War to assist pay for the army bills.
5. The IRS sends out a mean 8,000,000,000 pieces of paper each tax season. If all of these pieces of paper were laid out end-to-end, it would wrap round the earth 28 times. 

Realogics Sotheby's International Realty's Newest Branch Office at "The Park House" Receives Media Attention

As Patti Payne of the Puget Sound Business Journal announced on March 28th, “Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty is expanding into Seattle’s Madison Park” with its fifth branch office location. The latest addition to the growing global real estate brand “will consist of two sites across from each other: The Park House, a boutique real estate store front at 4031 Madison St.; and administrative offices in the building across the street.”

“Jones sees growing and sustained demand in the Madison Park area because of local job growth and traffic congestions. ‘I believe this is a point of inflection,’ he said, ‘and the Park House and our new brokers will be timely additions to our regional network as these trends play out.” Jones also alluded to future office locations in Seattle and the Eastside in areas “to be determined.”

For more information on “The Park House” branch office, Read the Press Release >>

Did you Know that May is the Best Time to List a Home?

In a recent Puget Sound Business Journal article, Emily Parkhurst declares that “This is the best time to list your house for sale in Seattle.” The dates she’s referring to? The first couple of weeks in May. As the feature describes, “houses listed between May 1 and May 15 sell 20 days faster than the yearly average.” What’s more? “They also sell for an average of $2,600 more.” These dates apply to most of the market in the United States, but are even weightier in a market as hot as Seattle’s.

May will thus mark an especially significant time to list in the already favorable market. As the Puget Sound Real Estate Trends & 2015 Year in Review, released by Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty, explains, the year 2015 witnessed white-hot real estate conditions throughout the Puget Sound not seen since before the Great Recession. Prices of real estate throughout the Puget Sound catapulted higher in 2015 and a similar trajectory is expected in 2016: expanding demand, anemic supply and developers playing catch up to increasing homeownership levels.

Winner of the Home of the Week on the Puget Sound Business Journal

I am SO excited to share that my client's Glacier Peak View Home WON Home of the Week on the Puget Sound Business Journal! THANK YOU THANK YOU to all of you who voted!! You helped us get featured in the weekend print edition of the paper. 

A private drive leads toward sweeping 180 degree views at Glacier Peak, perched high above the stunning Snohomish Valley. Walls of windows carry throughout the home to frame iconic Pacific Northwest vistas that complement a one-of-a-kind retreat situated across more than an acre of pristine land. Pride of ownership and meticulous care are evident from the minute the front door opens, as stunning finishes and soaring ceilings meet a striking wrought iron staircase.

Culinary creators will revel in a spacious kitchen with walls of windows and light, stainless steel appliances, and Corian countertops with effortless movement toward the formal dining room and breakfast cove. The tranquil master suite with a private bath and sitting area offers an area of respite for waking up with a morning cup of coffee or melting the day’s stress away.

With a gracious 3,363 square-foot floorplan, harmony is between indoors and outdoors is achieved, as the lower level features an office alcove accompanied by a living room and bonus area that flow out toward the backyard. Catch marvelous views of wildlife with lush green landscaping and brick patios for entertaining.

An unfinished room is ready for your vision, whether it’s a wine cellar, craft room or extra storage. A three-car garage with mudroom paired with an additional detached two-car garage offers plenty of space for the hobbyist. Feel miles away from it all yet enjoy convenient access to I-5 and Boeing Everett.

St. Patrick's Day Trivia

Why do you wear green on St. Patrick's Day?

St. Patrick's revelers thought wearing green made one invisible to leprechauns, fairy creatures who would pinch anyone they could see (anyone not wearing green). People began pinching those who didn't wear green as a reminder that leprechauns would sneak up and pinch green-abstainers.

If It Seems Like Guinness is Everywhere, It Is

Approximately 13 million pints of Guinness will be consumed worldwide on St. Patrick's Day, according to WalletHub, which released a St. Patrick's Day by the Numbers report this week.

Beantown Started the Party in the U.S.

The first St. Patrick's Day celebration took place in America in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1737.

There are No Female Leprechauns

If Irish folk tales are to be believed, the mystical beings are expressly male.

That Pot O' Gold Won't Go as Far as You Think

If, by chance, one did happen to find a mystical pot at the end of a rainbow this St. Patrick's Day, and it contained 1,000 gold coins weighing one ounce each, WalletHub estimated the total current worth at $1.26 million.

Property Spotlight: Glacier Peak View Home

A private drive leads toward sweeping 180 degree views at Glacier Peak, perched high above the stunning Snohomish Valley. Walls of windows carry throughout the home to frame iconic, easement protected Pacific Northwest views that complement a one-of-a-kind retreat situated across more than an acre of pristine land. Nestled within a quiet neighborhood, residents enjoy strong community ties and an excellent location where one feels miles away from it all yet remains close to boundless amenities.

This up-and-coming location is aided by the ever-growing Boeing Everett plant, which offers an ideal live/work lifestyle. While Glacier Peak feels like a retreat, locals enjoy a diverse range of activities from boutique shops and restaurants to family attractions including the Flying Heritage Collection and Imagine Children’s Museum; performances at Xfinity Arena and the Everett Performing Arts Center; and outdoor recreation at the Nishiyama Japanese Garden, Evergreen Arboretum and Gardens, and the more than 40 area parks. What’s more? Residents and visitors alike look forward to a number of dynamic annual activities including the Everett Farmers Market and a Waterfront Concert Series held at the second-largest marina on the West Coast.

3506 Glacier Peak Avenue | Everett, WA

Offered at $789,950

Property details >>

How Cool is Seattle?

For those of us from the Seattle area, it’s easy say we think our city is the best. Now, however, we have scientific, data-driven proof, as Forbes published its list of the Top 20 Coolest Cities in the U.S., and our gorgeous Emerald City ranked #2! 

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The Seattle PI, who reported on this achievement, explained that Forbes considered “entertainment, number of restaurants and bars, recreation, diversity and population growth, especially in the 20-34 age group,” which speaks to the growing millennial population in the city, often correlated with the high number of technology companies that dwell here. Other factors that elevated Seattle to the near-top? Forbes notes its “abundant outdoor attractions” and its “foodie culture” as the “city has a relatively high preponderance of farmer’s markets, breweries, & CSAs per capita, compared to other metro areas, and 81.6% of its restaurants are local rather than chains.”

How Will You Enjoy the Last Month of Summer?

Mid-August always brings about that moment of sadness, when we begin to realize that our dreams of long summer days and parties on the beach will soon come to an end. Luckily, we've still got a few more weeks until fall kicks in, and Laura Gaskill over at Houzz has some great ways to enjoy the last month of summer. A couple of great ideas I love? 

First, Gaskill says to have a "seaside fete" and "check off all of your favorite summer-beach-day traditions on one afternoon: Take a dip, build a sand castle, collect shells and treasures, and go for a walk," ending with a meal fresh from the sea.

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Or have a "Best of Summer Party" where you reminisce about your favorite summer moments among friends, family, and the last of that summer sunshine. She even suggests bringing out your scrapbook, a way to capture memories that is often missed as we don't often have our photos printed these days.

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For more ideas about how to end your summer right, view the full article here.

Seattle Market Highlights: Surging Prices and the Millennial Appeal

CNN Money reports that Seattle is among one of the best cities for millennials to settle in saying the city’s “high-paying tech jobs attract lots of young workers — and its vast coffee culture keeps them firing on all cylinders.” In fact, many millennials have already recognized the benefits of Seattle, as the article describes that “between 2010 and 1012, 28% of all people moving into the city were Millennials, five percentage points higher than the average major city, according to the National Association of Realtors.” They also say that high home prices aren’t deterring a number of “young, well-paid buyers,” an interesting factor considering the recent surge found in the median sale price of Seattle homes.

In fact, prices have reached heights beyond those of the  2007 peak, this according toCurbed Seattle, who reported that, “the median price of single-family homes sold in Seattle rose last month to $543,400, blowing away the last peak of $501,000 set in August 2007 – before the housing bubble burst and the country went into the Great Recession.  The reason for the surge? Curbed says “in spite of the fact that there are 1,550 more residences on the market compared to July 2013, availability still isn’t meeting demand,” adding that “low employment numbers and the ongoing influx of tech workers [which speaks to the Millennial appeal] has to be factored in as well.”

So how are consumers responding to these higher prices and market growth? They’re feeling pretty confident according to Seattle Bubble, who says that as of July, “the overall Consumer Confidence Index” was “at 90.9, up 5 percent in a month, 12 percent from a year ago, and at its highest point since October 2007.” A sure sign that consumers are trusting higher home prices and feel assured by the Seattle market.

What Do You Think of the Zillow-Trulia Merger?

You've probably heard by now that Zillow purchased Trulia in a $3.5 billion deal, and it's left many wondering what the effect on the real estate market will be. The Puget Sound Business Journal reports that real estate agencies in the Pacific Northwest agree that it won't be bad for business. The article reads, "[t]here are literally hundreds of real estate aggregating websites out there, said Dean Jones, owner and CEO of Realogics Sotheby's International Realty. Because there are so many places for people to find listings, he expects the expanded Zillow to take a cautious approach to raising its prices because agents could easily advertise elsewhere."

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With the Zillow/Trulia company set to control up to 70% of online real estate listings, it will be interesting to see how this merger plays out in the coming months.

Experience the Island Life on the Bainbridge Island Waterfront Home Tour

Waterfront homes are truly as unique as the people they attract, offering a distinct appeal and exceptional lifestyle opportunities. Here in the Pacific Northwest there are many shores to nestle on, and Realogics Sotheby's International Realty invites you to experience an exclusive collection of Bainbridge Island homes and embark on a waterfront tour this Saturday, July 19th.  You won't want to miss the chance to view some truly unparalleled available properties, take in the beauty of Bainbridge’s magnificent bays and harbors, and of course, soak up the waterfront lifestyle.

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So, with the sea below and blue skies above, climb aboard! Just pack your sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen, and prepare for a fresh perspective and a relaxing taste of the island life!

When: Saturday July 19th, 1-4pm (boarding at 12:30pm)

Where: The tour departs and lands at Eagle Harbor on Bainbridge Island

Cost: $49 per person

Reserve your seat now as space is limited!

The Collection Magazine is Here!

Introducing the new 2014 edition of The Collection Magazine – it has arrived!  The 100-page custom publication produced exclusively by Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty, features editorial articles on Beijing Sotheby’s International Realty, Millennial trends and a showcase of RSIR brokers and their unique listings – it’s the best of Northwest living!  I invite you to experience the extraordinary today.  It’s a Collection truly unlike any other. Read the magazine now.

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US & Chinese Real Estate Organizations Agree to Form Permanent Select Committee

Ashley Breunich from Realogics Sotheby's International Realty reports that, "At the conclusion of a five-day Trade Mission to China, the International Real Estate Federation – U.S. Chapter (FIABCI-USA) and the China Institute of Real Estate Appraisers & Agents (CIREA) agreed to form a Permanent Select Committee on doing business between the United States and China. A group of nine real estate professionals from across the US completed a Trade Mission to China on July 6, 2014. The mission included attending CIREA’s annual real estate agents conference, visits to some of the largest real estate brokerages in Beijing and attending an elective course for FIABCI’s International Real Estate Consultant (FIREC) designation.

Capital flows from China to the US continue to grow. The FIABCI-USA delegation was headed by President Edward Alford from South Hadley, MA. “I am extremely honored to have led this group of high-caliber real estate professionals to Beijing and was overwhelmed by the gracious hospitality of our CIREA hosts. I felt it necessary to assure our hosts that we were interested in mutual cooperation over the long term and welcomed the opportunity to formalize our intent through the formation of a select committee.” The residential market in China is currently undergoing a 30% contraction in sales and there is great concern about how this will affect the overall economy.

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In addition to President Alford, the FIABCI-USA delegation included President Elect Ruth Kruger from Aspen, CO; Treasurer Maire Rosol from Park City, UT; Vice-PresidentElizabeth Davidson from Kirkland, WA; Nancy & Peter Suvarnamani from Chicago; Dano Sayles from Hawaii, John Krolick from Incline Village, NV; and Secretary General Bill Endsley from Chicago. The delegation enjoyed sightseeing trips around Beijing and numerous sumptuous Chinese meals with potential new partners and the staff of Beijing Orient US-China Consulting Co., Ltd. which facilitated the Trade Mission.

FIABCI has welcomed over 150 real estate professionals from China as members over the last year and expects to grow significantly as additional groups of Chinese professionals complete FIREC training courses in doing business abroad, ethics, negotiation, financing and valuation. FIABCI provides access and opportunity for real estate professionals in more than 60 countries interested in completing cross border transactions.

The International Real Estate Federation – US Chapter (FIABCI-USA) is a multi-discipline, networking organization for all professionals associated with real estate transactions. The group provides information, connections and concierge services to help individuals, companies and associations expand their global networks. With members in more than 50 countries and World, Regional and National Congresses throughout the year, FIABCI is global, local and connected and can provide access to the highest caliber real estate professional anywhere in the world. FIABCI also enjoys Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

For more information about FIABCI-USA, click here."

DIY Garden Fountains

I wouldn't normally equate an easy DIY project to something like a garden fountain, yet Christine Tusher over at Houzz assures that though they seem complicated, it can be quite simple to create tranquility in the garden. Not only does she outline the necessary time, materials, and cost, she also provides considerations and maintenance...a surefire way to successfully complete this great summer project! Check out here full list of tips here!

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Destination Victoria: Seaplanes, Tenders & Golf Carts, Oh My!

Recently, Dean Jones of Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty, George Liu and Kevin Corbett of Beijing Sotheby’s International Realty toured the Greater Victoria area in British Columbia. Just moments from departing aboard their Kenmore Air seaplane flight, the trio caught a glimpse of VAVA II – a 315-foot super yacht moored in South Lake Union, which may be a harbinger to the global wealth that is descending upon the Pacific Northwest of late.

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PICTURED ABOVE: The 315-foot VAVA II dwarfs the other boats in Lake Union while an inspiring view of downtown Seattle is afforded from the Kenmore Air floatplane.

First stop was James Island, BC, a matchless 780-acre private island in the Gulf Islands and just a quick tender ride across from the Port of Sydney north of Victoria.  Listed by James LeBlanc and Scott Piercy of Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, the $75 million resort-like enclave has too many lifestyle features to list, but is known globally as the only Jack Nicklaus “Signature” golf course in the world.

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PICTURED ABOVE: James Island is a 780-acre private island located in the British Columbia island chain known as the Gulf Islands just north of the San Juan Islands in Washington.

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PICTURED ABOVE AND BELOW: A “signature” golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus is the only one in the world that exists on a private island – the cost of a round could be $75 million unless you’re an invited guest.

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The group also met Dan Matthews, President & CEO of EcoasisDevelopments LLC and toured the office of Scott Piercy, a top-selling broker in the Victoria marketplace, located in the famous Empress Hotel. They also visited a record-setting penthouse sale overlooking the beautiful Victoria Harbor.

For more information see the full RSIR Blog Post Here

Have You Made Father's Day Plans Yet?

If not, you're in luck because the 2014 Washington Brewers Festival is happening this weekend at Marymoor Park! This family-friendly event features over 300 beers from 88 Washington breweries, food, live music, a root beer garden, craft booths and more! An event to keep both dad and the kids happy! 

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China Likely to Meet 2014 Growth Targets

The NY Times says that despite debt problems, The World Bank predicts that China will likely meet its 7.5% economic growth target this year. While The World Bank remains optimistic, saying that China’s growth momentum will accelerate as 2014 moves on, many private economists aren’t so sure. Their worry comes from China’s debt, following the 4 trillion renminbi ($585 billion USD) stimulus the government implemented during the financial crisis in 2008-9; a debt that will require China to rethink fiscal and financial policies and systems. Something everyone is excited about? China, traditionally focusing on export and investment, is also turning toward domestic consumption. 

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Central Business District of Beijing