Kitsap Living

Horseback riding, cycling, hiking, kayaking – you name it. There are numerous outdoor activities to enjoy. Kitsap County is home to many beautiful trails, both on land and in the water. Kitsap Resources for Various Outdoor Activities The vast network of trails in the area includes several parks that cater to hikers, bikers, and horseback […]

The home-buying process involves many decisions. One of them is choosing a mortgage lender. Some people may think all lenders are pretty much the same, but that’s not the case. You want to work with a trusted professional. Working with a local lender can significantly increase your chances of success. Read on to find out […]

Father’s Day is right around the corner! It’s always the third Sunday in June, and this year it’s on June 15th. Spending quality time together will make the dads, grandfathers, and fatherly figures in your life feel extra special. We have made a list of some fun, free, and low-cost activities to help you celebrate. […]

Hiring a contractor for a home improvement project may seem straightforward, but it actually involves several important considerations. Whether you find someone online, go with a referral, or work with a friend who has expertise, it’s essential to avoid the costly mistakes listed below. 1. Not doing your research Just because you found a general […]

Mother’s Day is coming up on May 11th! What better way to treat the mothers, grandmothers, and motherly figures in your life than to spend some quality time together? We’ve compiled some fun, free activities to make your Mother’s Day special. And, if you need gift ideas, we’ve got you covered. We love supporting local […]

If you’re looking to move somewhere with a little bit of everything: city amenities, suburban neighborhoods, beaches, forests, and even acres of land for sale, look no further than Central or South Kitsap County. This area includes Silverdale, Bremerton, and Port Orchard. Windermere real estate agent Rebecca Johnson summarizes it perfectly, “Once you arrive in Kitsap […]

If you’re thinking of selling, you may run the risk of overpricing your home. From Zestimates to banking on what one neighbor’s home sold for, it can be tempting to overprice your home based on what you might make. But this can come at quite a cost. Learn about five common challenges that come with […]

In need of a relaxing staycation or a fun getaway? We’ve rounded up some great places that are right here in our corner of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re looking for something exciting or romantic, these gems are sure to help you unwind and recharge. Angeline Spa & Clearwater Casino Resort in Suquamish Part of the […]

Whether you want to sell your home or enhance its exterior, we have some easy DIY projects to help you get started. Small investments in your curb appeal can have a positive impact on your home’s value and appreciation. Your home, at a glance, can leave a lasting impression. Here are eight ways to make […]

Proud of his Kitsap roots, Nate Wallen grew up here and offers his clients local expertise and a strong resource network. He’s highly involved in the community and has a background in operations management. Learn about Nate’s approach to real estate, his hobbies, and more in our Q&A below. What drew you to real estate? […]

With a background in real estate videography, home remodeling, and real estate investment, Nolan Reynolds offers home buyers and sellers a wealth of information. He’s also lived in Kitsap County for decades. Nolan recently joined Windermere Silverdale, and we’re so glad he’s on our team. Read on to find out about his background, interests, and […]

The Haselwood Family YMCA in Silverdale offers many fitness and educational opportunities for our local community. Whether in the gym, the pool, or a personal development class, there is something for all ages to enjoy. Amenities at the Haselwood Family YMCA There are many amenities directly related to health and fitness. The aquatics center contains […]

Does your dream home come with a Homeowners’ Association (HOA)? Are you curious about what that would mean for you as the homeowner? Let’s explore what an HOA does. We will also examine some of the pros and cons of living under their governance. What is an HOA? An HOA is an organization that governs […]

Kitsap County is a great place to enjoy your retirement. Whether you’re considering downsizing and getting more involved in the community or looking to age in place and enjoy your favorite hobbies, there are plenty of local resources to help you take the next step. From volunteer programs to dance classes, we hope this inspires […]

Whether you’re a longtime local or a recent Kitsap transplant, keeping track of the local restaurant scene can be hard. Here are some new and expanded restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops in Central and South Kitsap that we hope you’ll check out. We also included some tasty recommendations. With so many great locally-owned places to […]

Being a homeowner comes with many projects, maintenance tasks, and chores. Luckily, we’ve compiled some helpful home improvement hacks and tips. Discover which projects make the most financial sense and learn some cleaning hacks to accomplish more in less time. Consider your return on investment Some home improvement projects are worth the expense because they’ll […]

The home-selling timeline can vary greatly due to factors like market conditions and how well your home is priced. However, if you follow these general steps for selling a home and avoid common mistakes, there is a greater chance of selling your home faster and for top dollar. Use a well-qualified, local agent A well-qualified […]

Sunnier days and warmer nights mean it’s time to start grilling! Here are some easy grilling recipes that will make dinnertime delicious and fun. We’ve got something for everyone: meat, seafood, and vegetarian options. And, who doesn’t love a good how-to video to further simplify the process? Grilled Salmon with a Lemon Sesame Sauce Salmon […]

If the dream of homeownership often feels unattainable, consider analyzing what you hear and assumptions people often make. Cherie Kesti, Penrith Branch Manager and Mortgage Consultant, has heard many myths and misconceptions. She has over 20 years of experience in the home financing industry. So, we asked if she would provide the facts, and she […]

A veteran, longtime Kitsap local, and specialty contractor, Nicole Quinene possesses the skills and knowledge to empower homebuyers and sellers. She recently joined Windermere Silverdale, and we’re so happy to have her. Learn about her background, interests, and more in our Q&A. What drew you to real estate? My interest in real estate is multi-layered, […]

Working with a real estate agent who is a lifelong local comes with many advantages. Meet Tasha Dwinell. She recently joined our Windermere Silverdale team and has lived here her whole life. Tasha is passionate about delivering excellent service to homebuyers and sellers. Learn about her interesting background in our Q&A below. What drew you […]

For over 100 years, the Kitsap Humane Society has helped countless furry friends in need. KHS has been located right here in Silverdale since 1908, and we’re proud supporters of their incredible efforts. Read on to learn about their impact, meaningful programs, and fun events that you can attend. Helping Thousands of Pets Over the last […]

If you’re thinking of selling your current home in order to buy a new one, you may be feeling overwhelmed. Selling a home poses numerous challenges, and buying a home in a desirable market such as ours can be a rollercoaster. A bridge loan can be a useful solution. Let’s explore this further. Bridge Loan […]

Buying a house out of state can seem overwhelming, but there are important steps to take and things to do that will help set you up for success. You might be relocating for a new job, the military, or to be closer to family. Or, perhaps you want to purchase a summer home or a […]

A veteran who loves helping others and has lived all over, Andrea Peterson is a licensed Realtor who recently joined Windermere Silverdale. We love her positive energy and the many ways in which she’s gotten involved in our area. Learn more about this great new agent. What drew you to real estate? Real estate is […]

In 2023, with the help of our agents and some donations from our community, our office supported two wonderful organizations, The Coffee Oasis and Olive Crest. Both of these nonprofits focus on supporting our local youth, and we are proud partners. To highlight the amazing people who help make these organizations so impactful, we interviewed […]

Now is the perfect time to pick up a new hobby. Or, use that new year energy to dig deeper into a current interest. Kitsap County is full of many creative classes. So, we’ve compiled a list of ideas to get you started. These classes will get your creative juices flowing and kick off the […]

A new year means new color trends, and interior design inspiration to brighten your home. Check out these helpful home decor takeaways from interior designers and color experts. Color of the Year: PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz The results are in. PANTONE selected 13-1023 Peach Fuzz as the 2024 Color of the Year. This subtle, soft […]

Small businesses throughout Kitsap County have everything you need for the holiday gift-giving season. There’s nothing like finding that perfect, thoughtful gift for each person on your list. So, we’ve compiled a bunch of ideas for what to get both kids and adults, right here in our amazing community. Local Holiday Gifts for Kids When […]

If you’re thinking of selling, there are certain home maintenance projects that shouldn’t be put on the back burner. By keeping up with a year-round home maintenance schedule, you reduce the likelihood of unexpected, expensive home repair projects before selling. From roof damage to problems with home appliances, no one wants to deal with a […]

Fall is the time of year when seasonal flavors abound, and pumpkin spice lattes are all the rage. But it’s also the time of year when autumn produce is plentiful here in Kitsap County. With innovative urban gardeners, family-owned and operated farms, and bustling farmers’ markets, there are many fresh, local options. Here are some […]

If you’re contemplating purchasing your first home or an investment property, finding a home that meets your needs can be challenging. You may be debating between buying a turnkey vs. a fixer-upper home. The biggest difference between these two is the condition of the property. Determining the right fit depends on what you are able […]

Going through the process of selling a home is often an emotional, time-consuming endeavor. Buying a home is a complex process as well. Doing both at the same time can be challenging. If you’re contemplating doing both, it’s best to know what your options are to help ensure the process goes smoothly. Buying and selling […]

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors at one of our local parks. Kitsap County and the surrounding areas have many great spots to enjoy. So, we’ve compiled a list of parks we love that have splash pads, are great for picnics, and/or pickleball (America’s fastest-growing sport). Kitsap County Parks Battle Point Park on […]

The Hood Canal is the perfect place to explore with family or friends. The narrow waterway off of Puget Sound is great for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Both sides of the canal are lined with interesting towns and activities that are fun for all ages. We’ve listed some of our favorites below. […]

Fun fitness classes abound across Kitsap County, no matter where you’re at on your fitness journey! There’s something out there for everyone. From energizing dance classes to yoga for youth – Kitsap County has a plethora of options for all ages. Bremerton Fitness Complex in Bremerton We have a strong military presence here in Kitsap County, […]

We’re excited to welcome Broker/Realtor Avery Humlick to Windermere Silverdale. Avery puts her clients’ needs first, and we love her positivity and drive. Her interesting background makes her a great fit for both buyers and sellers. Read on to find out more from our Q&A with her. What drew you to real estate? Growing up, […]

There are so many fun summer activities for kids and teens in Kitsap County.  If you’re looking for something for your kids to do this summer, this list will help you get started. Some organizations offer a variety of activities and camps, so make sure to check each website for more detailed information. First Friday […]

Some people are asking themselves whether it’s a smart move to buy a house right now or if they should wait it out. The thing is, the answer isn’t as simple as some might assume. No matter if you’re a first-time home buyer or an experienced buyer, there are a few factors you should consider […]

As summer approaches and the days are sunnier, you may be looking at your home in a new light. What appeared to be great in winter now seems tired and in need of refurbishing. If you are contemplating starting home improvement projects that add value, it might be helpful to know what renovations return the […]

Dedicated and hard-working Broker/Realtor Mark Plastina is a wonderful new addition to our Windemere Silverdale team. Learn about his interesting background, his local expertise, and more. What drew you to real estate? I’ve always been fascinated with real estate and its buying/selling processes since I was younger. At that time, I got to see my […]

Preparing to sell your home can feel overwhelming, so we’ve compiled some useful bits of advice to make sure you’re on your way to a job well done. From pricing to staging, there are many factors to keep in mind. We’re here to make the selling process smoother and more successful. Read on to gain […]

Wanting to spruce up your home without breaking the bank? Check out these simple, affordable home decorating ideas to enhance your space on a budget.  Declutter and Organize  This home decorating idea isn’t only free, it may also make you money. Selling unneeded items can fund other home improvement projects. Decluttering is a crucial, but […]

It may be winter, but there are still great ways to enjoy a fun day with kids, a night out with friends, or a unique date night. Indoor fun abounds in Kitsap County and beyond with tons of events, venues, and activities. Discover something new below! Live Community Theater in Port Gamble, Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, […]

Are you having doubts about selling your home in winter? While the real estate market has begun to shift and tends to cool with the weather, there are still advantages to selling this time of year. Supply and Demand 2021 was an unusual year because supply was extremely limited, demand was very high, and interest […]

You’ve decided to move, but that still leaves the question about what to do with your current home. Is it better to sell or rent your home? This is a big decision that can create additional stress. The answer depends on a variety of factors including your financial situation, the local housing market, and what’s […]

Vibrant colors and gourds galore – autumn in the Pacific Northwest is a beautiful season, and it’s also an important time to prepare your home for colder weather. From cleaning gutters to weatherproofing, fall home maintenance is a must in our region. Otherwise, you could be facing some costly consequences down the road. Here’s our […]

If you’re considering selling your home in the near future, you most likely have questions about certain aspects of the process. Read on to find the answers you’re looking for in our home sellers’ FAQs. Comparative Market Analysis What is a Comparative Market Analysis? A CMA is a detailed report that estimates your home’s value […]

When driving through different parts of Kitsap County, you are sure to see farms tucked into neighborhoods and historic barns hiding behind the trees. We have urban farmers, multi-generational farmlands, and a plethora of farmers’ markets. One thing Kitsap is not short on is delicious, healthy, locally-grown food. Here are some fun recipes using local […]

Downsizing to a smaller place may sound stressful, but it can actually be a very helpful process. Whether you’re retiring or simplifying your life, downsizing can be a great fresh start and the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Here are some downsizing tips to help you make the most of your move to a […]

Becoming a homeowner is a big step, but with careful planning, you can prepare yourself to be in a good position to buy your first home. To the uninitiated, buying a home can seem like a mysterious and complicated process, when really, it’s about knowing what needs to be in place to move forward. Here […]

Central Kitsap is the most populated part of the county and hosts many great festivals, kid-friendly activities, and more. These annual and recurring events in Silverdale and Bremerton highlight some of the unique ways our community comes together to connect and celebrate. Annual Events in Spring and Summer Photos with the Easter Bunny Two Weeks […]

As a homeowner, knowing what repairs deserve immediate attention isn’t always easy. Determining whether a crack in the wall is a simple paint job or an indication of something bigger requires both time and effort. But addressing certain repairs promptly can save you money and reduce your stress in the long term. To help you […]

In Kitsap County, during the first quarter of this year, we had 944 closed sales, with an average sale price of $606K. With the state of the current real estate market, buying a home can be a challenge in Kitsap County. But these tips and insights from some of our Windermere Silverdale agents will help […]

Curious about how Kitsap County’s real estate market is doing? We had a solid first quarter and it’s still a seller’s market. In 2021, we saw strong buyer demand and low inventory, and that continues to be the case. Read on for key highlights and market trends.  If you have any questions, our local real […]

If you’re looking for environmentally-friendly products and services, you may not realize that there are some great options right here in Kitsap County, Washington. Go for these reusable, natural, local, or waste-free options when you can. These products and services help mother nature, and we hope this list serves as a great starting point. Products […]

We don’t know about you, but we’re ready for sunshine, blossoms, and beautiful gardens! Whether you’re new to gardening or have quite the green thumb, here are some tips to set you and your garden up for success this spring. 1. Soil is Everything “Some gardeners do not say that they garden, but rather that […]

If you’re new to Kitsap County, Washington, you’re probably on the hunt for great local tips, and we’re here to help. We’ve often heard people say they wished they would’ve known about certain places and resources sooner, so let’s make sure that’s not you. We spoke to a mix of locals and newcomers to create […]

Kitsap County’s real estate market is still going strong, and here’s a look at how we closed out 2021. Just as in previous years, our local market slowed down during the holiday season. There are still many eager home buyers wanting to live in Kitsap County, but fewer homes were for sale during the fourth […]

Between the lingering effects of the 2008 recession and the burden of student loan debt, millennials often face many challenges when entering the housing market as competitive buyers. But if you’re a millennial wanting to buy your first home, here are some steps you can take.  Pay Off Student Loans Much of the millennial market […]

We’re excited to feature Cameron Tappe, a new agent who recently joined Windermere Silverdale. He grew up here in the Pacific Northwest and is energetic, hardworking, and dedicated. Learn about his background, professional approach, and more in our Q&A. What drew you to real estate? It is so motivating to have the opportunity to help […]

Cold weather calls for warm, cozy meals, and we’ve got some great recipes that are easy to make and delicious. Our collection below includes meals that are either quick to prepare and/or require very little work. From unique soups to hearty dinners, here are some recipe ideas that we hope you’ll enjoy. Sausage and Quinoa […]

We love living and working in Kitsap County, and community involvement is a key component of the way we operate. So, we thought we would take a moment to share the many ways in which our Windermere Silverdale office has supported and invested in Kitsap this year. By doing so, we hope it spreads awareness […]

This holiday season there are so many great local events going on, so we thought we would highlight a range of activities. From free pony rides for kids to a Viking bonfire, you’re sure to find a fun way to celebrate here in beautiful Kitsap County. Where to Find Santa Santa at the Manor House […]

Thanks to technology, it’s easier than ever to efficiently brew your morning coffee, keep your home secure, and wash your clothes. While there are many interesting gadgets and smart appliances, here are some of our favorites to improve your home.  Smart Washer We all have a limited amount of time to get things done, and […]

From efficiency to affordability, many people are drawn to the idea of living in a tiny home. Tiny houses combine maximizing space with living minimally. Although the concept seems simple, there’s more to this lifestyle than you may think.  Minimalist Living The tiny home movement combines mindfulness, environmentalism, and minimalism into an efficient lifestyle. For […]

We’ve been highlighting great, new eateries that have opened during the pandemic through our Facebook page, Windermere Sound Living. Check out these great places that we’ve featured so far, and stay tuned for more! Bigleaf Maple Bakery in Poulsbo   What do you get when you mix an archeologist and a choir teacher? Apparently, amazing French pastries! […]

Our Central Kitsap real estate market continues to grow in volume. Keep reading for key highlights about our strong seller’s market.  Our Competitive Seller’s Market Central Kitsap’s inventory and demand are higher than they were this time last year. More people are able to work from home and are ready to enjoy life on the […]

Crisp air and crunchy leaves mean that pumpkin season has arrived! Here are some of our favorite local pumpkin patches that offer pumpkins and produce for sale, as well as fun, fall experiences.  Creek House Farm in Port Orchard   Book 90 minutes of fun on this family farm in the Manchester area of Port […]

Building a house is a huge undertaking, and the pandemic has changed how we see our homes. For many of us, we went from commuting to work to commuting to the living room. Our homes became the epicenter of our lives, and it’s brought a renewed desire for home personalization. The current shortage of homes, […]

Since 1975, PAWS of Bremerton has helped countless cats and kittens find homes while also providing much-needed services. Kitsap County is lucky to have this wonderful volunteer-operated nonprofit in Bremerton and our Windermere Silverdale office proudly supports their important work. A Volunteer-Operated Cat Shelter and Much More The Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) of Bremerton […]

If you are thinking about purchasing a home, it’s essential to stay ahead of the game when it comes to securing the best mortgage rate. Understanding mortgages and how to secure low-interest rates earlier rather than later is highly beneficial. Below you’ll find the essential information you’ll need to get started.  What is a Mortgage […]

Congratulations, you are now officially a homeowner! Although furnishing your home probably feels like the most immediate priority, we’ve gathered a list of essential tips to ensure you’ve checked all of the important boxes on your to-do list. 1. Check Your Homeowners Insurance Policy Your new house is probably the most valuable asset you have […]

Silverdale and Bremerton’s Central Kitsap market exceeded performance predictions during our second quarter.  We’ve compiled key highlights below so that you can easily get informed about our local real estate market.  Our Strong Seller’s Market In Silverdale and Bremerton, inventory is still low and demand remains high.  Many people are now able to work remotely […]

What is Real Estate Investing?  To put it simply, real estate investing is the process of taking space (real estate) and making a profit from it. There are many ways to do this. You can be investing in real estate just by renting out a room in your apartment or house. Managing rental properties is […]

Every year, we love taking a day off to volunteer in the community for our annual Community Service Day (CSD), and last Friday we continued the tradition. We thoroughly enjoyed getting to volunteer at Silverwood School. Read on to learn about Silverwood School’s vital work and what we were able to accomplish on CSD. The History […]

It has been said that remote work is the way of the future. Many people are ditching their long commutes or moving out of large cities because they’re now able to work from almost anywhere. But your dream home may be tucked away where Wi-Fi isn’t the best for video-conferencing. Or, you may need a […]

Our corner of the Pacific Northwest is filled with excellent places to go camping, but we’ve narrowed it down to a handful of our favorites. Whether you’re an avid backpacker or a fan of family-friendly campsites where you can drive up and enjoy the view, we have some ideas to get you excited. We should […]

Central Kitsap’s market bounced back in our first quarter after the seasonal slowdown. We’ve compiled key statistics to keep you up to date with our local real estate market. Our Strong Seller’s Market Central Kitsap just had a great first quarter after the quieter winter season. With Central Kitsap’s proximity to Seattle and Tacoma, it’s […]

When visiting the Port of Silverdale, you can often watch local youth learning to sail, thanks to the Kitsap Sailing Foundation. This non-profit’s mission is to teach the art of sailing and rowing to Kitsap’s youth while building leadership, teamwork, and decision-making skills. “Learning to sail opens up a whole new world. It is a […]

In the middle of the most densely populated area of Kitsap County lies the Illahee Forest Preserve. With over 500 acres, it is a wonderful place to enjoy our area’s natural beauty. Inside this quiet forest oasis, you’ll see Douglas Fir, Red Alder, Maple, and Western Red Cedars providing homes to wildlife, including 55 bird […]

Raised right here in Kitsap County, Lena Musselman is a new Realtor who recently joined our Windermere Silverdale office. She’s passionate about giving her clients her all. She’s even started producing brief yet informative real estate videos on her Facebook page. Learn more about Lena in our Q&A below. What drew you to real estate? […]

Spring is in the air! Here are some of our suggestions for the best places to see Washington’s spring flowers in bloom. Thankfully, there are many wonderful places near us to celebrate and appreciate this beautiful time of year. Mark your calendars and then hop in the car to check these out! Bloedel Reserve – […]

Every summer, a wave of rubber ducks make their way across Dyes Inlet to raise tens of thousands of dollars. Known as the Silverdale Rotary Duck Race, hundreds of volunteers dedicate their time to plan and prepare this fun, one-of-a-kind fundraiser. The rules are simple. Community members who “buy” a duck will be entered into […]

Selling your home is a big decision and it involves a lot of moving parts. Luckily, we have compiled a list of things to consider, whether you want to sell in three months or three years. 1. Timeline Create a desired timeline involving the selling of your current home and the purchasing of your next […]

Silverdale and Bremerton’s Central Kitsap market finished 2020 with a strong fourth quarter. We’ve compiled a comprehensive review of Central Kitsap market statistics, as well as insights and predictions for 2021 from Windermere Real Estate’s Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner. Our Strong Seller’s Market Central Kitsap remains a seller’s market, like the rest of Kitsap County. […]

We are proud to feature Joe Stevick in our new Q&A spotlight series. Joe is one of our new real estate agents and brings a range of interesting skills and experiences to the table. He’s a lifetime local of Kitsap County who is involved in the communities he serves and he has also spent time […]

Surrounded by Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, Silverdale and Bremerton boast a range of businesses and entertainment as well as a strong military presence. From Settlers to City On a beautiful, cloudy day, the Silverdale waterfront gleams with a silver glow.  On shore, a bustling city center houses the most expansive shopping experience on […]

We proudly support our armed forces and their families, not just today on Veterans Day, but every day. Many of our real estate agents possess a wealth of experience working with those who serve. We are well-versed in helping families who are about to PCS (Permanent Change of Station, for our non-military readers). And, we […]

All media courtesy of the Suquamish Museum.  Nothing embodies perseverance quite like the Suquamish Tribe. Thriving with tradition and culture, the Suquamish Tribe has lived in tandem with the land, now Kitsap County, for centuries. The Suquamish lived communally in permanent villages along the shore near rivers and streams of the Puget Sound during the […]

Central Kitsap’s market had a very strong third quarter. We’ve compiled key stats below to provide a comprehensive review of our market, as well as insights and predictions from Windermere Real Estate’s Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner. Our Strong Seller’s Market It’s a strong seller’s market here in Central Kitsap. Inventory remains low while demand is […]

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything. We believe this so strongly that we created the Windermere Ready program. With concierge-level service, our program prepares your home for the market with guidance from a local expert as well as financial assistance, if needed. Sell For More in Less Time On average, […]