November - December | 2025
Olympic Life
NIGHT OUT AT COVE OLYMPIA
Top notch food and drinks to celebratethe season
THE GIFT OF LOCAL
Find something on everyone's wish list
WINTER ESCAPES
Skiing,hiking,scenic drives and more
MARKET SNAPSHOT
Insideagent analysis
LOCAL EVENTS
Explorelocal events for the holidays
LOCALSPOTLIGHT: COVE
Downtown Olympia has no shortage of places to eat and gather,but few capture the balance of comfort,style,and community quite like Cove.Since opening its doors,Cove has become a go-to destination for everything from after-work drinks to Sunday brunch to lively nights out with friends.It?s the kind of restaurant that feels equally appropriate hosting sneakers and ball caps as it does heels and holiday sparkle? making it a true reflection of Olympia?s easygoing yet elevated spirit
Step inside and you?ll find a space that?s modern and bright without losing its warmth The design invites you to linger,whether you?re tucked into a booth for a family dinner or gathered around the bar watching a game. Local artwork and thoughtful details add personality,grounding the restaurant firmly in the community it serves.
Of course,what keeps people coming back is what?s on the table.Cove?s menu features
approachable Northwest flavors with a creative twist Favorites like the crab roll,poke nachos,and scampi toast offer shareable bites perfect for starting the night,while entrées like steamed clams or chicken and waffles make for a satisfying meal
Weekend brunches are another highlight, drawing regulars for hearty plates and a chance to start the day with something delicious
The drink menu is every bit as special as the food.Sixteen rotating taps keep the beer selection fresh,while the wine list highlights thoughtful pours from near and far.Seasonal cocktails are where Cove really shines,with house-made mixers and syrups often grown in staff member's gardens This winter,look for festive flavors that pair perfectly with the holidays,from spiced sangrias to warming bourbon creations
Beyond dining,Cove has become a gathering place for the community.Regular live music and comedy nights bring fresh energy to downtown Olympia, creating the kind of atmosphere that feels celebratory all year long And with a private event space, Cove offers an inviting setting for larger celebrations? whether you?re planning a holiday party,a milestone birthday,or simply want a reason to bring people together
As the holiday season fills Olympia with light and cheer,Cove offers the perfect backdrop Whether you?re raising a glass with friends,hosting a gathering,or simply treating yourself to a good meal, Cove embodies what this time of year is all about: connection,comfort,and a little indulgence
T H E G I F T O F L O C A L : W H E R E T O S H O P
The holidays are a season of tradition,connection,and giving? and few things capture that spirit quite like shopping local.Beyond finding thoughtful gifts, visiting independent shops brings you into the heart of our communities In both Thurston and Lewis counties,a handful of local favorites make holiday shopping feel less like a chore and more like an experience.
In Olympia, Browsers Books is a beloved destination for readers and gift-givers alike.With shelves that invite exploration,it?s easy to uncover a new release for the bookworm in your life or a classic novel to spark nostalgia Just a short walk away,CompassRose offers a different kind of treasure hunt From artisan-made goods to playful stocking stuffers,it?s the sort of place where browsing is half the joy? and finding something unexpected is guaranteed.
In Chehalis, Benny?s Florist brings beauty to the season in a different way.
Olympic Sotheby?s International Realty agent Haley Chatfield notes,?Benny?s Florist in Chehalis truly care about their customers and their community?
Known for fresh,thoughtfully designed arrangements,Benny?s makes every bouquet feel special,whether you?re ordering something custom or grabbing a quick pick-me-up.Their dedication to going above and beyond has made them a longtime community favorite.
And for the playful spirits on your list, Let?s Play Something in Centralia is all about connection.With an impressive collection of board games,puzzles,and hobbies,it?s a shop dedicated to fun,offering gifts that bring families and friends together long after the wrapping paper is gone
Browsers Bookshop,Downtown Olympia
"CompassRoseisoneofthose shopsthatfeelsgoodandmakes youwanttoslowdownandstaya littlelonger.Everycornerhas somethingspecial,from thoughtfulgiftstolocallyinspired treasures.It?sthekindofplacethat feelsvery'Olympia'andalways leavesyoufindingsomething unique!"
"Benny'sFlorist has suchawarm,personal touchtotheirwork."
"Let'sPlay Something isamazing! Tonsof selection.Theyareover thetophelpfulandwrap thetoysforyouforfree!"
Compass Rose,Downtown Olympia
Benny's Florist,Downtown Chehalis
Let's Play Something, Downtown Centralia
Haley Chatfield,Lewis County Agent
Kim Witham,Lewis County Agent
Megan Zahringer,Thurston County Agent
I N T E R E S C A P E S
WWhen the Pacific Northwest is blanketed in fresh snow,there?s no better time to plan a winter escape.From family-friendly ski runs to challenging terrain for seasoned adventurers,Western Washington offers a variety of destinations perfect for holiday-season fun Whether you?re a skier,snowboarder, or simply looking for a cozy mountain town getaway,each area has its own character and charm
Crystal Mountain
Nestled in the Cascade Range with sweeping views of Mount Rainier,Crystal Mountain is the state?s largest ski resort and a favorite for its expansive terrain. With over 2,600 acres of skiing and snowboarding,it caters to all levels? from wide beginner runs to steep expert bowls Off the slopes,the Mt.Rainier Gondola offers breathtaking winter vistas,making it a memorable experience for skiers and non-skiers alike Crystal also boasts an energetic après-ski scene,perfect for unwinding after a day in the snow
"CrystalMountainhasthebest expert terrain,backcountryskiing,andlift access inthePNW.There?strulyskiingfor everyone,from beginnerstopros.It sitsat thefoothillsofMount Rainier,andtheviews areabsolutelyincredible!"
- MauraWillie,ThurstonCountyAgent
White Pass
For those seeking a more laid-back atmosphere,White Pass delivers.Just east of Packwood,this resort is known for its welcoming,family-friendly vibe White Pass has a dedicated learning area for beginners,scenic Nordic trails,and enough variety to keep more advanced skiers entertained It?s also an accessible option for families wanting a less crowded
experience while still enjoying quality snow and views of both Mount Rainier and Mount Adams.
"WhitePassisagreat familyfriendlyski resort intheSWWashingtonCascades. Whilenot asexpansiveasother resorts thereisstillenoughvariedterraintokeep everyonehappyandclosetogether.There aremultipledaylodgeoptionsfor foodand beverage. MyfavoriteisTheYurt whichis locatedmid-mountainandisaperfect spot for asnack&beers."
-JeffWeeks,ThurstonCountyAgent
The Packwood Area
Beyond the ski lifts,Packwood offers a quintessential small-town winter getaway This charming mountain community is a basecamp for adventure seekers and nature lovers,with nearby trails for snowshoeing,cozy cabins for weekend retreats,and easy access to White Pass. During the holidays,the town comes alive with seasonal festivities,making it as much about the atmosphere as the outdoor recreation.
Snoqualmie Pass
Located just an hour and a half from Olympia, Snoqualmie Pass is all about accessibility.With four distinct ski areas,it offers something for everyone Families often flock to the beginner-friendly slopes,while advanced skiers and snowboarders head straight for Alpental?s steep chutes and backcountry-style terrain. Snoqualmie is also a popular spot for night skiing, giving visitors a chance to experience the mountains under the glow of the lights
Making the Most of the Season
Each of these destinations has its own personality? whether it?s Crystal?s sweeping alpine experience,White Pass?s family-oriented feel,Packwood?s cozy mountain-town charm,or Snoqualmie?s convenience and variety.Together, they highlight the richness of winter in Western Washington and the many ways to embrace the season
This winter,consider trading the hustle of holiday shopping for a day on the slopes,a weekend getaway in the mountains,or a snowy adventure with friends and family No matter which escape you choose,the experience promises fresh air, new memories,and the kind of winter magic only the Pacific Northwest can deliver.
What's Happening in the Market?
Amessage
from our owner
As we reflect on the Western Washington real estate market through the first three quarters of 2025,it?s clear that we are in a period of healthy, yet shifting,momentum.
In Lewis County,while the median home price has dipped slightly compared to this time last year, we?ve seen notable strength in sales activity.In Thurston County,both prices and sales volume continue to climb? positive indicators that buyer demand remains strong across much of the South Sound.
However,many sellers are experiencing a market that feels slower? and with good reason.Inventory has grown in both Thurston and Lewis counties, giving buyers more options and creating a more balanced environment.
For many brokers and sellers,this adjustment period is unfamiliar territory After years of low inventory,fast-moving listings,and strong seller leverage,today?s environment requires a different approach The key is patience and a clear understanding of where we are in the cycle
Warm regards,
Jim Greene
Designated Broker,Owner
As we move through the fourth quarter of 2025, the market has shown signs of stabilization. Well-priced homes are selling quickly,but not so fast that it feels hyper-competitive for buyers. People now have the opportunity to make measured decisions rather than rushing to write an offer on the spot.This stability also makes it easier for sellers to understand current market conditions and set realistic pricing expectations.
After nearly three years of steady trends,the reality of the market has set in? and with it,less anxiety.Buyers and sellers alike seem more accepting of where things stand,creating a calmer, more approachable environment overall.
As we look ahead to 2026,we anticipate continued stability and opportunity.With the right preparation and perspective,our clients can navigate this evolving market successfully.
At Olympic Sotheby?s International Realty,we remain committed to guiding our clients through these changes with the professionalism,expertise, and care that define our brokerage? and the trust that continues to define our community
SCAN TOSEETHE QUARTERLY MARKET REPORT
Curatorsoftheunique
