Kirkland, WA March 2022

R E A L E S TATE

2022 LUXU RY M ARKET REVIEW HOME + DESIGN

CUSTO M H O M E DESIGN LI F E + C U LTU R E

H ELP FIN DI NG HO M E: TH E SO PH IA WAY AN D IM AGIN E HOUSI NG ARE LE ADIN G TH E WAY

M A R C H 2 022

New to Market

16019 67th Lane NE #5 | Kenmore, WA 98028 Beautifully remodeled, sophisticated and chic end-unit at The Canterbury at Inglewood. Elegant living areas are designed with expansive windows, soaring ceilings and an open-concept in mind, allowing the beautiful grounds of the golf course to be viewed from almost every room. This sleek & luxurious condo features fresh countertops, new paint and flooring, a fabulous breakfast bar, a luxurious 3-way gas fireplace & stainless steel appliances. Comfort and tranquility are immediately felt when entering the magnificent primary suite. Start your morning routine with a cup of coffee on the private outdoor patio, a perfect place to unwind.

Enjoy a new furnace, secured lobby entrance and garage. Just minutes to I-405, 522, Microsoft, sips, dining & more!

Proudly with:

2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 1,504 sf | SOLD at $656,000

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.

Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

Where

GLOBAL Meets

Luxury

Feeling the St. Patrick’s Day luck this month knowing we serve the best clientele in the PNW! Happy clients make us happy and there’s nothing we love more than to see a fabulous review! We couldn’t do it without you!

“Not my first, nor my last, but definitely my BEST experience buying a home! I just purchased a beautiful house in Kirkland with the help of Mike Moghaddas. He was extremely honest, trustworthy and a true professional. If you are looking for a very respectful, knowledgeable, and classy guy to do business with and learn from, he is the one you should go to. A superb realtor who went above and beyond to help me with decision-making as well as the purchase. He was always quick to respond to questions, phone calls and texts and made sure I clearly understood the whole process. In short, I learned the great value of what an experienced realtor brings to the table and I feel like I also made a great friend in the process. I highly recommend Mike!”

-Kirkland Purchaser

MIKE MOGHADDAS

Real Estate Broker 425.830.1316 mike@moghaddasrealty.com

March 2022 PUBLISHER

Caitlin Agnew | caitlin.agnew@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

There’s No Place Like Home

Publisher Caitlin Agnew, with husband Max, painting and renovating their new home in Bellevue.

EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Max Baker | max.baker@citylifestyle.com AD DESIGNER

Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Bree O'Brien, Heija Nunn CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

If you receive this magazine, then you reside in a home in the Kirkland area, and aren’t we so lucky to call this place home? If you’re a long-time resident, the growth and demand we’re experiencing is either stressful or exciting to watch (or both?). As an Eastside resident myself, when I hop on the app Next Door, the posts and comments reveal some strong opinions about our neighborhoods, new homes being built, and changes to come – welcomed and not. Because I grew up here, I can relate to the conversations happening on the Next Door app, but ultimately I’m embracing all the change and I’m excited for our city.

This month is our Home issue, and the realtors and builders featured are echoing this same attitude by embracing the growth and riding the wave. Hear from our luxury real estate partners on what to expect from the market in 2022 on page 22. Our community will be seeing a lot of new custom builds and full home remodels in our neighborhoods, and you can learn more about the custom home building process on pages 16 and 28, as we showcase two different style homes and home builders.

With growth also comes growing pains. Not everyone can afford the rising prices, and while affluence dominates our area, there are still many in need that our community can help. Page 40 highlights two Eastside non-profits that address various housing needs.

Whether you’ve just moved to Kirkland or it’s a place your family has occupied for generations – we hope this issue inspires you to appreciate the place you call home!

C A ITLI N AG N E W, PU B LISH E R @KIRKLANDLIFESTYLE

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/KIRKL AND |

Life N Light

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Kirkland Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Kirkland area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Kirkland Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

TOTAL LIFETIME SALES

MARK’S EXPERIENCE

$2.612B+

31+ Years

Mark von der Burg First Founding Broker | Compass Seattle mark@vdbcompass.com 206.245.9185 Seattle 425.882.8821 Eastside

A premier full-service luxury team with a proven record of success that speaks for itself

vdbcompass.com

MARCH 2022

inside the issue The Home Issue

28

36

22

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

22 2022 Luxury Real Estate Market Review

6

Lifestyle Letter

10

Business Monthly

12

Local Experiences

16

Curb Appeal

22

Expert Help

R EA L ESTAT E

28

Open House

HO ME + DES I GN

36

Home Update

40

Giving Back

28 All About the Experience

Designing Your Dream Home with Eakman Construction

36 Supply Pain Management

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Life N Light Eakman Construction Home Remodel

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HO ME + DES I GN

HO ME + DES I GN

LI FE + C U LT U R E

@ V D B C O M PA S S @ V D B C O M PA S S @ V D B C O M PA S S V D B C O M PA S S

# MmU`S @ b_j]U_M`q@mz @m\Mq .Mjbmq Rbm ;brm !MUSTHbmTbbK bm b_M Please contact Mark to request a personalized report.

Mark von der Burg First Founding Broker | Compass Seattle mark@vdbcompass.com 206.245.9185 Seattle 425.882.8821 Eastside

MARCH 2022

LUTRON® AND BUDGET BLINDS® MAKE HOME AUTOMATION EASY TO USE AND EASY TO AFFORD! North America’s #1 provider of custom window coverings and the most established name in smart home technology team up to give you total smart home integration.

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

The safe and easy answer for hard-to-reach windows.

Photography Courtesy of City of Kirkland

Use the remote or control your entire home with a smart phone.

Recently Elected Kirkland City Councilmembers Sworn In

Smart shades, smart lights, and smart thermostat integrate beautifully with your choice of smart home devices • Amazon® Alexa, Apple® HomeKit™, Google® Assistant, Nest®, Sonos® and more — control your shades, lights, temperature and more from any mobile device by using the Lutron app • Program shades to automatically open and close for security and energy savings • No new wiring required

The Lutron App controls shades, lights and temperature

Call or go online today for your FREE smart home consultation

425-333-7800 | BudgetBlinds.com/Bellevue-wa

"Kirkland’s four recently-elected Councilmembers were sworn in during a ceremony at the Kirkland City Council meeting.

Kirkland residents Penny Sweet (Council Position No. 3), Jay Arnold (Council Position No. 1), Jon Pascal (Council Position No. 7), and Neal Black (Council Position No. 5) were all re-elected in the November 2021 election and were officially sworn in by Kirkland Municipal Judge John R. Olson.

Their terms are effective January 2022 through December 2025." stated the City of Kirkland. To read the full press release visit kirklandwa.gov/.

Or stop by our showroom

8429 122 ave. n.e. Kirkland, WA. 98033 (Across from Starbucks)!

Mon-Fri. 10-5 and Saturdays 10-3

If you want to be included, send us a message!

Visit CityLifestyle.com/Kirkland to get in touch.

©2018 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated.

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Celebrate Spring with a Luxury Pop-Up Picnic Picnic Party Seattle, founded by a mother and daughter team, elevates picnics for every occasion. Customize your picnic for your special date, birthday party, bridal shower, wedding, or just because! Groups up to 24 can enjoy a personalized and unique experience year round. In case of rain, we've got you covered with our clear bubble tent! Take advantage of the beautiful Pacific Northwest landscape around a table with the people you love.

Woodinville Leprechaun Leap 5K/10K Fun Run Move with a Mission!

Join Health & Hope Foundation in the mischief at the Woodinville Leprechaun Leap 5K Run/Walk,10K Run, and free 100M Sprite Sprint on Saturday March 12th, 9 AM at Woodinville's Wilmot Gateway Park.

Costumes encouraged, kids, strollers and dog friendly. Great prizes as you “Move with a Mission” to support healthy lifestyles and raise funds for vulnerable women and children in the developing world. Search Woodinville Leprechaun Leap for details and to sign up!

MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KL A N D

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MARCH 2022

local experiences Locals recommending the best places and things to do in the city.

The past two years have given us the perfect excuse to take the extra time to decorate something new or revamp something old. Whether you're looking for your next DIY project or want to redesign that spare room...we've got you covered! Grab a friend and shop at a local home decor boutique, grab fresh flowers from a local florist, or learn how to DIY your next home sign.

Home Decor & Design IVY GIFT & HOME: We are located in the heart of downtown Kirkland, specializing in high quality furniture, home accessories, lighting and gifts. 141 Park Ln Kirkland, Wa CANVAS: As the premier paint and sip studio in Washington, you will relax in a social, group setting, and an artist team member will guide you through replicating the sessions featured painting step by step. 223 Kirkland Ave, Kirkland, Washington 98033 SWEET SER ENITY: Candles light up any room with their classic charm, inviting warmth and soft aroma. Our charming potted flower arrangements and custom-made bouquets will have your friends & family smiling with joy.

12601 120th Ave Ne Kirkland, Wa KATE SAVITCH DESIGN: Whether you're looking to update a few key pieces of furniture, remodel rooms in your house, or design a custom build, Kate Savitch Design provides a personal touch that only a boutique firm can provide. Online, Kirkland, Washington 98033 NYB GALLER Y: is a Fine Art Gallery in Kirkland, WA that exhibits museum quality contemporary fine art and provides private fine art advisory services for collectors and customized art consulting assignments for residential & commercial spaces. 1260 Carillon Pt Kirkland, Wa

Scan for more photos and the full list.

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Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

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LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

Luxury is an

experience.

Marsh Commons | $5,225,000

West of Market | $3,750,000*

West of Market | $3,400,000

Norkirk | $3,200,000*

As we begin to enter what is traditionally the busiest sales season in our region, I expect we’ll see similar trends to 2021. Low inventory is favoring sellers while home prices continually rise—this time at a slower pace than seen last year. With the Federal Reserve nodding towards increasing interest rates throughout the year, affordability is top-of-mind for many buyers. Locally, I expect to see high demand, especially for the luxury market. Whether you seek home around the corner or across the globe, I’d be pleased to offer a complimentary consult today.

#1 AGENT

Agent by Sales Volume and Total Transactions Realogics Sotheby’s Int’l Realty, Kirkland

$61 MILLION 2021 Total Sales Volume

Waterfront | $2,800,000

West of Market | $2,300,000*

Brian Hopper Senior Global Real Estate Advisor

Managing Broker Kirkland Brokerage +1 425.300.7330 Brian.Hopper@rsir.com BrianHopper.com

Bridle Trails | $2,000,000

Market Street | $1,425,000 *Buyer Represented Sale

REALOGICS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY | 15 LAKE STREET, KIRKLAND, WA | RSIR.COM Total sales volume reflects properties purchased and sold in Washington state and volume generated through outbound referrals to other states. © 2022 Realogics Brokerage, LLC. All rights reserved. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

There’s never been a better time to

love where you live.

custom build

jaymarchomes.com

move-in ready

The Rehab Diaries When I consult on home remodels, I always do so with an eye to meet the home owner’s personal needs, as well as their future resale return. First golden rule is; spend in proportion to the rest of your home and in direct correlation to your location.

For those of you who’ve watched your fair share of HGTV, you’ll know that there are two main areas that yield the largest return; kitchens and bathrooms.

In the first of a series of articles, I discuss what makes sense when planning out a kitchen remodel, all the way from flooring and cabinetry, to pulls and lighting.

Cabinetry: Your kitchen’s backbone.

The biggest consideration for cabinetry outside of style, is function. Storage can be maximized in a small kitchen with pull outs, and custom slide inserts. The sweet spot is to spend a conservative amount on mid-range cabinetry that holds up to the test of time and looks like a million dollars too; think wood exteriors and dovetail drawers. Meanwhile, your island should be as spacious as you can fit into the space.

Slab counters are your kitchen’s crown jewel Quartz products still reign supreme. Ultra hard wearing and available in a plethora of color tones and patterns, this manufactured stone also comes at a variety of price points. It’s important to spend on high quality here, because countertops can make, or break, a kitchen. Pay attention to slab thickness too; standard is 3cm. I would not recommend going any slimmer than 2cm; it’s not nearly as hard wearing and it looks cheaper too.

Knobs, pulls and lighting are the icing on the cake Know that for resale (and for maximum return), it’s not worth going overboard here. No one will know how much you spent on these items, so as long as they look the part and are well made, your return is on the upside. In terms of lighting, while it may feel like a minor embellishment, in the same way that hardware is key to bringing cabinetry to life, the right light fixtures can take your kitchen from

Curious to find out more?

Scan the QR code for the full article.

nice to stand out.

Real Estate Market Update: As I write this it’s the end of January, which is a great predictor of market trends as we head into Spring.

MARILISA VERGOT TINI

We sped into 2022, much as we did in 2021, with low inventory

Broker 206.599.9908 marilisa@compass.com luxuryseattleliving.com

sales prices. Economists predict 12%+ price increases year on year,

and extreme competition, resulting in multiple offers and raised fueled by preferential mortgage interest rates. My role is to plan and execute targeted strategies that will enable you navigate this market.

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

CUSTOM HOME DESIGN ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW

By Combining Custom Touches with a Spec Build, MN Custom Homes Provides Buyers with the Joy of a Custom Home without the Hassle.

It’s no secret that the Eastside is on the rise and driven by the tech industry. Home supply looks to be low for the foreseeable future and move-up buyers or those relocating to the area are looking for short commutes in beautiful neighborhoods with easy access to all the amenities of a core location. Buyers are looking for more functional indoor and outdoor space, as seen with the trend of more work and study from home. Toss in our hot real estate market, and it all adds up to a difficult time for buyers to find a home, or build their own custom home.

Enter MN Custom Homes; local home builders that have strategically attained upcoming home inventory that allows buyers a great place to start their home search. Started by two high school classmates, Shaun McFadden and Joe Naeseth, that connected after college and identified an opportunity to fill the growing new construction need on the Eastside. They began by building custom homes and have evolved to become the largest residential in-fill developers in Washington State. Several years ago, they recognized the market’s desire to personalize new spec homes and responded by creating the MN Presales Program.

Buyers can now purchase a home during construction and tailor finishes to their personal preference. It’s the best combination of a custom and spec build leaving

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C UR B A P P E A L | HOM E + DE S I GN

only the “fun selections” without the hassle of finding land, identifying a general contractor, and making hundreds of tedious decisions. Their MN Presales Program allows buyers to work directly with their internal interior designers to craft and personalize each home with distinct and contemporary features.

Aside from home building, MN Custom Homes desires to make a meaningful impact in our community.

They’ve been partnered with local non-profit Jubilee REACH for the last five years as they serve our families in need and at-risk youth in our schools. In addition, they’ve partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation to plant 10 trees for every home they sell, that’s over 2,300 trees in local PNW forests, along with special environmental rehabilitation projects right here on the Eastside through Arbor Day’s partnership with the Tree City USA program. Combine that with the latest smart home features, energy efficient appliances and recycling almost every part of the homes that were previously on the home sites, MN Custom Homes aims to leave a positive impact in our neighborhoods, and a lasting impact on our local environment.

MN Custom Homes shared some of their most popular designs with Bellevue Lifestyle: Modern Farmhouse, Northwest Craftsman, Modern / Contemporary, and Transitional. For more information, visit mncustom.com.

MODERN FARMHOUSE

MODERN FARMHOUSE

T O P : Modern Farmhouse: Eye popping white exterior captures quaintness of a bygone era with the touches of modern finishes and amenities.

B O T T O M : High ceilings supported by exposed beams are featured both inside and outside.

CONTINUED > MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KL A N D

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NORTHWEST CRAFTSMAN

MODERN / CONTEMPORARY

TRANSITIONAL

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C UR B A P P E A L | HOM E + DE S I GN

NORTHWEST CRAFTSMAN

MODERN / CONTEMPORARY

TRANSITIONAL

HAPPY MN CUSTOM HOMES BUYERS, P H I L I P M A S S E Y A N D A N D R E A S T R AT F O R D

Northwest Craftsman A timeless exterior design with contemporary touches blends beautifully in any neighborhood. Latest trends feature more modern interior design elements that freshen this traditionally grand home style.

Bridle Trails residents, Andrea Strafford and Philip Massey, tell us their favorite customized features of their new MN Custom home:

Modern / Contemporary Trending to a more edgy yet timeless look, modern home styles allow for floor to ceiling windows to allow for natural light and beg for “wow” features to be showcased throughout the house.

1.

All the tile in various rooms. It gives the rooms personality.

The ones we curated for our home complement our overall European Farmhouse style.

2.

The Quartzite countertops in the Kitchen and Butler’s pantry. It is a natural stone with gorgeous patterns and color variations that doubles as a piece of art.

3.

The Blanco SILGRANIT Apron Front Farmhouse Sink, in Coal Black. Obsessed with the color pop it adds to kitchen, and most importantly it is heat, scratch, stain resistant, has a nonporous surface so it is food-safe and easy to clean, ultra-durable and is made in North America.

Transitional Taking the edge off a modern design by blending more traditional shallow gabled roofline and stone entry columns. Blended exterior design provides additional flexibility with interior finishes.

4.

The custom bench cushions for the Breakfast Nook and the Mud Room. We had fun curating the perfect fabric for those.

5.

The European White Oak flooring throughout the home.

6.

The Kitchen Island color is green. This is our color that is represented in various finishes within the core rooms of the home. It adds an element of Biophilia to the home.

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The perfect blend of personalization and simplicity. Discover your power with an MN Custom Homes Presale.

2022 luxury real estate market review Kirkland Lifestyle asked our luxury real estate partners for their expert advice on what to expect in 2022. The resounding feedback: no doubt that our area will experience another historical year of growth and demand. If you’re planning to buy or sell, check out this advice from some of the best in our area.

+Thoughts on the 2022 market: The Federal Reserve has signaled that interest rates could potentially be raised 3-4 times during 2022, which will affect affordability for some buyers. As for pricing in Kirkland, I anticipate that the rate of price appreciation will not be quite as high as we saw in 2021, but demand will still be very high, and we’ll continue to see low inventory, and many multiple offer scenarios. +Tip for Buyer: Expect the same challenge of historically low levels of inventory through this year. It’s important for buyers to have an agent who knows how to write an aggressive offer that stands out besides high price. +Tip for Seller: It is key to make sure your home is dialed in and presents the best, which is how we have been able to make our selling client the most money. Listing sooner than later this year will prove to be the better play for sellers. + Contact: BrianHopper.com, @hoppergroup

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EXP E RT H E LP | R EAL ESTATE

Brian Hopper

Realogics Sotheby's International Realty

Ferrera Team: Catherine & Mckenna Ferrera Compass

“IT’S A GREAT TIME TO SELL. It’s important to have an agent who knows how to get the most for your home and provides a concrete strategy on how that will be accomplished.”

+Thoughts on the 2022 market: Prices are more reflective of past sales and still rising. Now is a great time to sell, and later in the year interest rates may rise, but unless they hit 5% we will still see continued price increases. +Tip for Buyer: Work with your agent and lender to understand what you can really afford and know that your offers need to be clean (no contingencies). Doing this ahead of time makes for offers getting accepted sooner and saves the buyer time and money in the long run. +Tip for Seller: IT’S A GREAT TIME TO SELL. It’s important to have an agent who knows how to get the most for your home and provides a concrete strategy on how that will be accomplished. We have seen many unexperienced agents sell a house for over list price, with money still left on the table. +Contact: ferrerateam.com, @ferrerateam CONTINUED > MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KL A N D

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Marilisa Vergottini

Compass

+Thoughts on the 2022 market: If you are looking to sell don’t “wait and see what happens”. The time is now.

Once interest rates exceed 4.25%, the market is likely to stall, because buyer spending power will be impacted.

Inventory remains incredibly tight and demand strong. +Tip for Buyer: It’s all in the details. I recently had an offer accepted because my buyer and I meticulously covered all bases. We performed a pre-inspection, analyzed financing, and worked with a proven lender who could close in a two-week timeframe, while delivering an excellent interest rate. The listing agent confirmed we won the offer because she and her client had full confidence in our offer being water-tight, versus its immediate competition. +Tip for Seller: Quality should never be overlooked.

Excellent listing preparation pays dividends, including meticulous staging, addressing maintenance issues and implementing a marketing strategy to set you apart from competition. I never cut corners or compromise on the details, no matter how strong the market. +Contact: luxuryseattleliving.com, @luxuryseattleliving

VDB: Mark von der Burg Compass

+Thoughts on the 2022 market: Seattle’s ranking as one of the top 10 cities nationally, enhanced by natural beauty and active lifestyles, draws an influx of buyers to the area.

While demand remains robust, price increases are predicted to slow slightly relative to sales this year. A strong tech industry and investment opportunity will continue to fuel the market, resulting in growth rates above national averages. +Tip for Buyer: The Kirkland market remains competitive, so you have to be prepared to make your best offer to win.

Selecting a knowledgeable, experienced, well-connected broker who can educate you on value, help navigate the offer process, and negotiate on your behalf is key for best results.

You want someone qualified who can go the distance for you. +Tip for Seller: The current Kirkland market favor sellers, though we are beginning to see evidence of buyer fatigue at some price points. Be prepared to present a perfectly polished and staged product to engage buyers emotionally and hire a professional experienced in luxury marketing and successful negotiation to ensure the best price and return on your investment. +Contact: vdbcompass.com, @vdb_compass

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EXP E RT H E LP | R EAL ESTATE

Max Rombakh Windermere

+Thoughts on the 2022 market: The outlook in 2022 is similar to 2021 where demand increased, supply evaporated and prices soared! However, we believe that more luxury properties may be coming to market as sellers try to get ahead of the rising interest rates. Prices are expected to continue to increase until we find more balance in supply. +Tip for Buyer: Suitable properties are limited so buyers need to partner with a local expert with deep knowledge of the market. Our team had record sales in 2021 and we were able to place more than half of our buyers in homes that were not listed in the MLS. +Tip for Seller: Timing is everything and preparation is important. A good broker can help manage the process and has relationships with contractors to help prepare your home for sale. Be mindful and reasonable of pricing, so that you can generate excitement and activity. Work with an experienced local expert that knows how to capture buyers and get them excited enough to make offers. +Contact: maxrombakh.com, @maxrombakh

Mike Moghaddas Compass

+Thoughts on the 2022 market: Homes will continue to sell fast and above asking.

Mortgage rates will slowly continue in an upward trend, making affordability tougher for first-time buyers.

Builders are ramping up production, but labor and materials continue to remain at high levels also affecting affordability. Rising rent rates may motivate people to buy, even in an expensive market. +Tip for Buyer: A slightly higher down payment may make or break an offer. When writing offers, go strong and look in a price range that allows you to offer much over asking without putting your finances in a risky position. Talk to your lender to see what financial capabilities you have. A good broker will do plenty of research to see how many offers are expected and where numbers are at in the area. +Tip for Seller: Have a pre-inspection done. This allows you to fix the items that need fixed and encourages buyers to waive the inspection on their offers with peace-ofmind. Experienced agents achieve strong branding, marketing, staging and negotiation through closing. +Contact: teammoghaddasrealty.com, @mikemoghaddas MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KL A N D

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The science of building in the rain.

We have spent decades perfecting the science of building homes in all weather conditions. Our proven method delivers homes that are structurally solid, tight and sound. Other homes may squeak, pop and bounce. Not ours.

b u bcuhchaann.c. ocmo m

All About the Experience When Designing Your Dream Home, Eakman Construction Puts the Client Experience First

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT

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O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

Accent Custom Wood Hood created by Eakman Construction

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Light and Bright Kitchen Concept

Guest Bathroom with Timeless Style

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O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

Laundry Room Designed with Space in Mind

Living Room for Entertaining or Cozying Up

Founded in 2012 by Stacy Eakman, Eakman Construction is a custom home and large scale remodel company. From the beginning, their mission statement has been: “We are on a mission to change the way people think about construction companies. Through courage, communication and customer focus, we will be fair, we will provide value, and most of all we will care about our clients and their experience.”

Most importantly, Eakman claims the main thing that sets his company apart from other home builders in the area is the experience.

“There are numerous builders that can deliver a beautiful final product, sometimes it is hard to make a decision on who to work with based solely on the final product. Building a custom home or doing a large scale remodel is a lengthy process that will have exciting and happy times, but also will have some challenging times.

The key is to manage both good and bad, and communicate it. We have found that the key to helping our clients enjoy the experience is communication. Our clients are making probably the biggest investment of their lives when building their dream home, and that can cause some anxiety. People just want to feel like they know what to expect,” says Eakman.

Eakman’s determination to make Eakman Construction a household name has served the company well as the company now employs 26 people, and has countless satisfied clients who will attest that the quality and experience while working with Eakman Construction are second to none. As an architect driven firm, his team will build any style of home and work with the client and architect to deliver the vision that they have developed during the design process.

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Bar Area to Entertain and Play

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Open Kitchen Concept

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O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

Featured here is a full home design project that Eakman worked on with designer Morgan Molitor. The client gave them a lot of freedom with this project, and Molitor produced everything from mood boards, selection sheets, floor plans, elevations, and renderings – and when the time came for construction, Eakman’s team took the project over and brought everything to life perfectly.

“I love how we did a fun play on colors, patterns and textures throughout the home. No two space was the same.

We mixed colors, textiles, textures, etc throughout the home and our clients love how each space gives them new energy!” says designer Molitor.

Here they share a few of their favorite design elements: +Kitchen: Walls came down and we moved things around to create a light and bright cohesive space where our clients could entertain. We went with Edgecomb gray, a warm white, for the cabinetry color, complimented with a Montauk Gin 4×4 Ceramic Wall Tile for the backsplash, and white Cafe appliances that are new to market. We also brought in mixed metals when it came to the lighting fixtures, hardware, and fixtures. +Bathroom: The ‘girls bathroom’ is also the main level guest bathroom, and we wanted to ensure a timeless vibe.

A feather herringbone wallpaper with accents of gold, vertically stacked subway tile complimented with a light pink penny floor tile, and mixed metals throughout was the perfect combination to give inspiration for their girls and guests. +Laundry Room: The original laundry room was in a small space, not giving much room to even do the laundry.

Our goal was to bring more space so we stacked the washer and dryer, and completely reconfigured the lower level space and moved the laundry room into what was once the living room. +Living Room: We opened things up, walled things off and reconfigured the entire space. From carpet to light and bright engineered hardwood flooring, to a vertical black shiplap accent wall to an updated fun bathroom and bar area - it’s now the perfect place to cozy up or entertain. +Bar: Our clients love to have friends come hang and this is something they didn’t previously have. Indigo stacked subway tile, to pavilion gray painted cabinetry to Cosetinto Et Statuario countertops with a delta gold touch faucet and gold and glass shelving made the perfect backdrop to hang out and play!

For more info on this home or other homes by Eakman Construction, visit eakmanconstruction.com.

MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KL A N D

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BELLEVUE

A F EW OF T HE TOP WAYS TO A DD VALU E TO YOUR HOME Upgrade The Kitchen Updating your kitchen’s surfaces such as countertops, cabinetry, hardware and fixtures can be simpler than you thought. Cabinets can be as easy as sanding and painting the already existing ones with a fresh color, white cabinets provide a clean palate that you can work around.

For countertops, we typically recommend to our clients using Compass Concierge, a slab quartz counter, as it holds its value for when you resell, and matches a variety of interior home styles. Hardware & Fixtures updates are the cheapest and quickest way to upgrade your kitchen, while still making a big impact.

Prioritize Your Outdoor Space The pandemic has brought a shift in focus towards the outdoor features a home provides. Whatever space you do have, decide what fits the land best: hardscape, grass, landscape, etc. Once you have picked the most suitable option for your space, get fun with it!

The options are endless, adding a fire pit, a pond, maybe a garden, all will add value to your home as this is something buyers are now prioritizing in their search.

Storage, Storage, Storage Who doesn’t love a home with storage? While it might seem difficult to actually create more space in your home dedicated to storage, there are simpler ways to increase your home’s storage capacity and value.

Take your already existing storage areas, and see how their efficiency could be maximized. This can be done by adding shelving with different drawer/box options and combinations to organize within. A great place to start on this would be the pantry or linen closet.

FERRER A TEAM

Catherine & McKenna Ferrera M: 206.579.1077 catherine@ferrerateam.com

From home experts, to trusted real estate agents, the Ferrera team is here to offer advice!

www.Ferrerateam.com Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.

Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

ARTICLE BY HEIJA NUNN

Supply Pain Management We were already living in a time when small goals became a heavy lift, and simple projects quickly veered towards drama. Now we have supply chain pain, symbolized by the cinematic image of a ship named Ever Given disrupting the global economy with one wrong move.

But HGTV, Instagram design influencers, and our hyped-up housing market are stronger than a speeding virus. Here are just a few tips and local resources to help you navigate the uncharted waters of Home Improvement in the Time of Covid.

Dunn Lumber, Dunnlumber.com, Bellevue and Kirkland, Image Source: Milgard Windows

1.

Figure out what YOU really want and need.

Dog ear magazines and design books, use Pinterest and Houzz to collect favorite images, visit online stores and stalk all the popular kids on Instagram and TikTok for inspiration. Try not to get caught in the twirl of trends unless you really enjoy the breakneck rollercoaster ride from grey and white to modern farm house, boho chic, monastic minimalism, Paris apartment, and our looming courtship with maximalism.

Do what you want with your money and your home, just know that it might be easier to accommodate your own fickle taste if you choose timeless materials and invest in a neutral foundation. Ignore everything I just wrote if you are about to move.

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H OM E U P DAT E | HOM E + DE S I GN

Stop at the beginning. This means no shopping, spending or scheduling until you have a solid idea of how much time and money you have to spend. What is the problem you are trying to solve with your project? Declutter, downsize, deep clean and consider repairs before you define your goals. Do not demolish or destroy anything yet. Seriously, don't do it. A lighter paint scheme, updated lighting (or even just lightbulbs with a human Kelvin rating 3000k or below), new hardware and a fresh approach to art, accessories and plants can work miracles. If you don’t know where to start, or want to confirm you are on the right track, book a consultation with a professional home stager or an interior designer or lean on your friendly local Realtor for ideas and honest feedback. Book a storage room or a portable unit delivery right now. They are almost as rare as white oak.

2.

Chown Hardware, chown.com, Bellevue, Image Source: Waterworks

Arnold's Appliance, arnoldsappliance.com, Bellevue, Image Source: Café Appliances

3.

Crescent Lighting, my crescentlighting.com, Kirkland, Image Source: Troy Lighting

4.

Sweat the small stuff. Shelves are empty and there are raw material and shipping gaps in every industry. Make your list, check it twice and don't get too attached to a single vision. Consider ordering items separately in case one item is delayed which could cause your entire order to be canceled, thus sending you to the end of an ever growing line. If you see it, buy it. You may have to cobble pieces from separate physical and online locations. There is no harm in returning duplicate purchases as long as you understand the policy and watch out for restocking fees. Ask about appliance outlet stores, special sales and open box displays.

Float like a butterfly. Embrace the opportunity to explore new resources. Bellevue and Kirkland offer an array of design showrooms, lighting, flooring, and paint companies, lumber suppliers, appliance shops and big box stores. Inventory, displays and exclusive partnerships vary from store to store, as does staff expertise.

Saying hello and asking questions will lead you to helpful experts.

While instant gratification is a decaying concept; vintage and antique malls, thrift stores and online marketplaces are an amazing resource if you are open to sustainable shopping.

West Elm, westelm.com, Bellevue

Miller Paint, millerpaint.com, Bellevue and Kirkland, Image Source: Farrow and Ball

5.

6.

This never-ending pandemic business has created new business norms. Think of yourself as a teammate instead of a customer.

Stores and call centers are understaffed and open shorter hours.

Bring your patience, sustenance, and a charged phone because transactions take twice as long, and finding inventory is like mining for gold. You may need to add a truck to your shopping list because rentals are hard to find and the only way to guarantee an appliance will arrive is to pick it up yourself, or build one from scratch, but the spare parts are on back order too.

Will you need to hire a contractor? Vendors can afford to be selective about taking on new projects. Demonstrating mutual respect, courtesy and an air of hospitality for the skilled artisans, design professionals, expert vendors, salespeople and related workers you are entrusting with your home environment and investment is critical to the success of your project. Tipping is appropriate in many instances, snacks and beverages are appreciated, and a fair and comfortable work environment is a must. Think about how you expect to be treated and act accordingly for best results.

When you’re done, smoke a cigarette. Kidding! Instead spam your friends with before and after pics on every platform available. It’s like the same thing…I think.

MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KL A N D

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An extended stay shelter cubicle at Sophia's place

Help Finding Home: The Sofia Way and Imagine Housing are Leading the Way ARTICLE BY BREE O'BRIEN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE ORGANIZATIONS

Interviews with Molly Judge - Imagine Housing’s Funding Development Director and Sujata Agrawal - The Sophia Way’s Senior Manager, Communications/Engagement

Guests playing a game at Imagine Housing Photo credit courtesy of Mariel Ishisaka

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G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

Imagine Housing’s Velocity community.

Photo credit courtesy of SMR Architects

Tell us about Imagine Housing’s history.

It was formed in 1987 by St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church members who saw an unmet need for affordable housing in East King County. St. Andrew’s Housing Group was formed as an independent non-profit to preserve and build affordable housing on the Eastside. Their first affordable housing development, Andrew’s Arms, has been open since 1992 in Issaquah.

The organization changed its name to Imagine Housing in 2011 and is no longer formally associated with the Church.

Today, we have 15 properties and provide 639 affordable housing apartments.

Who do you serve and how?

Imagine Housing serves individuals earning 60% or less of Area Median Income annually. Our residents are moms and kids, veterans and the elderly. They may be disabled, impacted by health issues or recovering from homelessness. Most importantly, they’re neighbors who need a connection to community resources and to feel a sense of belonging.

We provide permanent affordable housing with support services – individuals and families are able to live in our communities for as long as needed, and have access to an on-site Case Manager who ensures they have the tools and supports they need to move forward.

What is something people may not know about homelessness?

Approximately 1 out of 30 children in the US is homeless, and 20% of people experiencing homelessness in King County are children, but much affordable housing can’t accommodate families. Nearly half of Imagine Housing’s affordable apartments are two-bedrooms or more so we are uniquely positioned to support families.

How can people support Imagine Housing’s mission?

A charitable contribution directly impacts the 1,394 people who call Imagine Housing home. You can make a donation online, volunteer, and advocate in your community for policies that advance affordable housing issues.

Tell us about The Sophia Way’s history.

It was founded in December 2008 by the late Helen Leuzzi, a philanthropist and women’s advocate. She saw a critical gap in the community - there were no shelters specifically for women, and the number of women without homes on the Eastside was growing.

Who do you serve and how?

The Sophia Way supports women on their journey from homelessness to safe and stable living.

Programs include: • Helen’s Place, 24/7 emergency shelter for 40 women • Sophia’s Place, extended-stay shelter for 21 women • Sophia’s Day Center, drop-in center • Vehicle Outreach, for people living in vehicles or on the streets • Transitional Housing and Rental Assistance • Permanent Housing with Supportive Services Case managers provide individual care, connect women with services, and empower them with skills and resources to help them live a life of their choice.

What is something people may not know about homelessness?

People experience homelessness because of economic conditions such as lack of affordable housing, high cost of living, lowwage jobs, lack of access to health care and mental health treatment, and more. Nearly 70% of women who come to the shelters cite domestic violence as a factor for losing their homes.

Addiction is an issue for both housed and unhoused, and can be a result or cause of homelessness. Drug use and addiction require treatment, and King County lacks enough treatment beds.

How can people support The Sophia Way’s mission?

• Financial gifts • Provide a meal • Donate toiletries and other necessities from the organization’s Amazon wish list • Volunteer time or skills • Advocate for the homeless MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KL A N D

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HOUGHTON CR A FT SMAN E STATE

10418 NE 53rd Street 6 Beds | 3.5 Baths | 4,473 SF | 17,994 SF Lot

FE R R E R A T E A M Catherine & McKenna Ferrera M: 206.579.1077 catherine@ferrerateam.com www.Ferrerateam.com Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.

Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

$2MM

AVA I L A B L E | W E S T O F M A R K E T

Sold in Bridle Trails $3.63MM

MARKET EXPERTISE. PRESTIGE SERVICE. PERSONAL CONNECTIONS. $ 3 .1 M M

SOLD | REPRESENTED BUYER

Max Rombakh M A N AG I N G B R O K E R LUXURY MARKETING SPECIALIST

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2 0 6 . 2 2 7. 0 7 3 7 M A X R @ W I N D E R M E R E .C O M M A X R O M B A K H .C O M

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