At the time of writing this piece, we are on the cusp of a hotly contested presidential election, while in the heart of a Pacific Northwest fall. As much as I mourn the passing of another summer, I do believe that fall and winter have their own brand of magical vistas and experiences. Watching the ever-changing weather roll in, and Lake Washington go from brilliant golden glinting to angry roiling grey, and sometimes back again, is it’s own special art form!
From Kirkland to Husky Stadium, North Lake Washington waterfront sales have rebounded with a vengeance in 2024 with 29 closed waterfront homes and 8 more pending sales at the time of this article compared to just 16 closed single family waterfront sales in all 2023.
Interestingly, the biggest recent resurgence has been in the northernmost part of the Lake (from Magnuson Park AKA Sand Point to the North side of Juanita Bay) which is typically a slightly slower area of the Lake Washington waterfront market. To date in 2024, there have been 18 closed sales and an incredible 9 more waterfront homes in this area have gone pending during September and October – the most robust September and October for waterfront in this area during my 42 year career! To put this in perspective, there were 9 total waterfront sales in this area in all of 2023. At the time of this article there is only 1 waterfront home still available from Magnuson Park to Juanita Bay.
It is my belief that, provided the US stock market continues to thrive and mortgage interest rates continue the trend of slowly lowering (they are about 1% lower than they were one year ago) 2025 will be a strong year for Puget Sound area real estate and Lake Washington waterfront in particular and a wonderful time to consider buying or selling!
For the King County housing market in general, months of available inventory (active listings divided by pending sales) is currently up roughly 6% over 2023 at this time, with active listings up 28%, but pending sales are up 21%. Median closed sales prices are up 9% year over year county-wide!
Based on the numbers above, it would appear that we are poised to see both the Puget Sound real estate market in general, and the North Lake Washington waterfront market in particular continue to thrive in 2025.
As always, I continue to refer a number of quality vendors to my fellow area homeowners and remain committed to continuing to do so. Feel free to reach out any time you are interested in getting some wonderful contacts for upcoming projects around your home.
I hope you enjoy this latest edition of Bryan Loveless & Associates magazine. Not only are there some spectacular area listings, and local holiday events but there is a wonderful article on picturesque Leavenworth – truly an amazing destination to enjoy a quintessential Northwest fall or winter experience!
I wish you and your family all the best – getting to live and enjoy this incredible place gives us much to be thankful for…
Bryan
Bryan Loveless
425.968.8181
BryanLoveless@Windermere.com
Fall Edition
WEST OF MARKET WATERFRONT
Truly magnificent West of Market waterfront estate with exceptional panoramic Southwesterly views of Lake Washington, the Seattle skyline, Olympic Mountains, rose colored sunsets, and maritime performances from nearly every room. One of the finest estate style waterfront properties in all of Kirkland, this custom contemporary masterpiece on over one-half acre features high-end steel and concrete construction and artistic, professionally designed fixtures and finishes. Carefully crafted 5,539 square foot 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath main home includes a true chef’s kitchen with butler pantry wing and impeccable appointments throughout. Beautiful detached 2 bedroom, 2 bath 1,011 square foot view guesthouse/ADU with new kitchen and main bath, 2 story light-filled living room and amazing rooftop deck. This provides a total living area of 6,550 square feet. Unparalleled primary suite with walls of windows, endless views and luxurious new bath. All of the baths feature designer tile and spa-inspired finishes. Structural steel floating staircase, exotic Brazilian natural wood floors and species wood millwork, hydronic in-floor heat in all baths and lower level, custom electric shades. Lower level includes second kitchen, 650+ bottle wine cellar, & gym. Exquisite, professionally designed and landscaped grounds include massive imported natural stone, specimen plantings, and $50K+ in outdoor lighting.
$12,885,000
Large main floor deck with built-in barbeque station, private primary suite view deck and lower-level covered patio – providing year-round entertaining options. Host epic events on sun-filled days in your beautiful, level backyard oasis including waterside fire pit and spa, pizza oven, nice privacy and a completely rebuilt dock with boatlift, platform lift and 2 jet ski lifts – ready for all manner of water toys! Two separate 2 car garages (4 cars total). Additional large upper view garden – fully irrigated and lighted – with raised planter beds, fruit trees, and entertaining spaces – a perfect venue for magical garden parties! Located on one of Kirkland’s most sought-after quiet waterfront lanes, with a level, 5–10-minute walk to vibrant downtown Kirkland and it’s eclectic shops, restaurants, and waterfront promenade. Iconic waterfront properties such as this take many years to design, permit, and build and are the rarest of real estate – don’t miss this opportunity to live in and enjoy all this artistic masterpiece has to offer!
West of Market
Exquisite and immaculate Hamptons-inspired home in one of the best locations in Kirkland’s coveted West of Market neighborhood! Gracefully set at the end of a lane at the North end of Waverly Way, this custom-built masterpiece was originally crafted in 2000 and completely professionally renovated in 2018. Enjoy the exceptional protected westerly views of Lake Washington, city lights, the Olympics and rose-colored sunsets! This 4,914 square feet home is designed and crafted to blend timeless East Coast influences with casual elegance in this 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath oasis. No expense spared in the carefully curated true chef’s island kitchen with Wolf and Subzero appliances, beautiful custom cabinetry, 5” rift and quarter sawn hardwood floors throughout most of the main floor. Light-filled, warm and elegant living spaces include vaulted ceilings, French doors, paned windows and fixtures & finishes completed to the highest standard. Spacious, main floor lake view primary suite includes custom built-ins, spa inspired bath with beautiful custom designer tile and luxurious shower. Inviting main floor wood paneled office with built-in desk and murphy bed, ensuite bath and walk-in closet for ultimate flexibility. Spacious lower level includes huge bedrooms, large rec room with fireplace and kitchenette, beautiful media room, 750 bottle climate-controlled wine cellar, hobby/ crafting/flex room and ample storage. Lush and verdant grounds with mature plantings mesh with beautiful view patios – perfect for entertaining. Quiet and private, yet literally just steps to fabulous Waverly Park and just a short easy walk to vibrant downtown Kirkland’s shops, restaurants, and events! Don’t miss your chance to live in and enjoy this amazing and exceptional home with the best walking neighborhood on all of the Eastside outside your front door!
Offered at $5,498,000 | MLS 2280163
A Leavenworth Holiday
Visiting Leavenworth in the fall is like stepping into a postcard. The town, nestled in the Cascade Mountains, is ablaze with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. The crisp air is perfect for strolling through the Bavarian-style village, exploring unique shops, and enjoying local hiking trails. Oktoberfest, one of the biggest events of the season, brings lively music, traditional dances, and plenty of beer and bratwurst, creating an joyful atmosphere for any visitor.
Fall Into Winter
As snow blankets Leavenworth, the town transforms into a winter wonderland. The streets are adorned with twinkling lights, and festive decorations evoke the charm of a classic holiday movie. The annual Christmas Lighting Festival is a highlight, where thousands gather to see the village glow with millions of lights, accompanied by caroling and festive cheer. Nearby, Stevens Pass offers skiing and snowboarding, while the town itself provides opportunities for sleigh rides, snowshoeing, snow tubing, sledding, and cozy fireside relaxation.
A Season to Remember
No matter the season, Leavenworth’s blend of stunning natural beauty and Bavarian charm makes it a magical destination. In the fall, the town is alive with color and festivities, offering a perfect setting for leaf peeping and seasonal celebrations. In winter, its picturesque snowy landscape and holiday spirit create a fairytale-like experience. Whether enjoying autumn hikes or winter sports, Leavenworth’s unique charm and welcoming atmosphere make it a year-round delight.
Carnation
Impeccable, elegant, gated 1.27 acre estate showcased in the 1997 Street of Dreams by renowned NW builder Gregerson Custom Homes. This 8,419 square feet home had been carefully crafted with a quality level and attention to detail not often found at this price. Gracious rooms featuring high-end fixtures and finishes throughout this exquisite property. Interior of home has been nearly completely refreshed over the past three years, including an updated chef’s kitchen with Viking cooktop and 48” Subzero Pro, new tile and fixtures in all baths (except primary), new and refinished gleaming hardwood flooring. Newer Presidential TL roof, Generac 22KW generator, and recently upgraded state-of-the-art high-end media room and whole house sound system. This amazing home features a large epicurean kitchen, palatial main-floor master suite with spa-inspired bath, beautiful two-story family room with signature stone fireplace, custom wine cellar, along with a number of flex spaces, including an upper level guest/nanny wing with kitchenette, and additional spaces and amenities too numerous to list. Stately, private arboretum-like grounds include lush landscaping with gorgeous mature plantings, covered outdoor space with fireplace, gardener’s potting room, a gated circular drive, and an immense 4 car garage. This magnificent property is truly a special offering that will appeal to the most discerning buyer!
Pending at $3,175,000 | MLS 2287141 & 2290716
Holiday Events
Christmas Ships
The Christmas Ships Festival is a beloved holiday tradition in the Seattle area, where boats decked out in dazzling lights sail across the Puget Sound. From late November through December, these festive ships stop at waterfront communities while onboard choirs perform Christmas carols. Spectators can watch the ships from shore or even hop aboard to enjoy the music and the scenic nighttime cruise.
Point Defiance ZooLights
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season with its ZooLights event, beginning Nov. 29th to Jan 5th. Visitors stroll through the zoo illuminated by thousands of colorful, animal-themed light displays. From sea creatures to majestic wildlife, the glowing exhibits create a magical atmosphere for all ages. Though many of the animals are asleep, the lights bring the zoo to life in a whole new way.
& Gatherings
12Ks of Christmas
The 12Ks of Christmas is a festive holiday race held in Kirkland on Dec. 15th. Participants can choose between a 5K or 12K run or walk, often donning holiday-themed costumes like Santa hats and reindeer antlers. The course winds through scenic streets, with the holiday spirit in full swing as families, friends, and pets join in the fun. The event combines fitness with festivity, offering a great way to celebrate the season while staying active.
Holmes Point
Experience unparalleled luxury living at this meticulously remodeled 4,307 square foot home with stunning lake views and manicured grounds. Nestled in sought-after Holmes Point, this spacious residence features 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms and includes a gracious, open and light-filled main floor great room, game room, wine cellar, office, home gym space, and more! Chef’s kitchen comes complete with a new Thermador range, dishwasher, waterfall island, and custom walk-in pantry. Two spacious primary suites with en-suite baths on main and upper floors. Multiple outdoor entertaining spaces with deck and wraparound patio, new professional landscape, custom hardscape and outdoor lighting. Truly pristine condition with gleaming hardwood floors, quality custom blinds, new metal roof, heating and central air conditioning. An attached heated flex space with epoxy floor currently housing an in-home gym but can accommodate 2-cars tandem for a collector car showcase or ??? Additional detached oversized 2-car garage for total garage parking for 4 cars. A+ location at the corner of a quiet cul-de-sac on the north end of Holmes Point – an area that includes 600+ acres of protected forest and trails, waterfront parks, neighborhood boat launch and just a few minutes to historic Inglewood Golf Club and all shopping services. Discover the epitome of refined living in this Holmes Point retreat!
Luxury Remodel | 6065 NE 135th St, Kirkland
Offered at $2,888,000 | MLS 2266982
Sold | $7,200,000
Waterfront SAles
| $5,050,000 Sold | $5,000,000
Sold | $6,500,000 Sold | $3,000,000
with Bryan Love less
| $2,990,000 Sold | $3,900,000
Rare Waterfront Lot | 11043 Champagne Point Rd NE, Kirkland
Champagne Point
Rare, level Lake Washington waterfront lot in the sought-after Champagne Point area of Kirkland. Totaling .24 acre (10,422 square feet) with 40 feet of prime, southwest facing waterfront. A true private and quiet oasis with mature hedges, and gorgeous panoramic views of the glistening waters of Lake Washington, Magnuson & Matthews Beach Parks, the emerald green grass of Sand Point Country Club, rose colored sunsets, amazing weather from pale blue skies to wild storms, and majestic heron and eagles to endless maritime performances! With access to Puget Sound (and/or anywhere in the world!) through the Ballard locks, this beautiful waterfront property with a 63 foot dock is limited only by your dreams and sense of nautical adventure! Champagne Point is at the south end of the Holmes Point area of Kirkland and includes over 600 acres of protected forests and trails. Located on a serene and level dead-end lane just 10 minutes to iconic Inglewood Golf Club and vibrant Juanita Village and 15 minutes to eclectic downtown Kirkland. The possibilities are endless – this site is truly a blank canvas for your imagination and innovation!
