Community September 17, 2024

Retirement Resources in Central & South Kitsap

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 you to explore what our community offers. 

Classes, Activities & Recreation 

Staying active and feeling connected to your community can be challenging as you get older, but there are many local options available. The Bremerton Senior Center offers a variety of activities for folks 55 and over. At the Port Orchard Senior Center, you’ll find options like arts and crafts, billiards, Zumba, and yoga. Learn the basics of square dancing, the official Washington State Dance, or show off your skills at the Kitsap Square Dance Association weekly dances.  If you are a fan of swimming or racquet sports, some options include the Kitsap Tennis & Athletic Center or Aqua Aerobics at the South Kitsap Community Pool. Additionally, there are classes and tournaments at the Bremerton Family YMCA, as well as Silverdale’s Haselwood Family YMCA. To enjoy outdoor hobbies at a discounted rate, check out options like Gold Mountain Golf Club’s senior discount or the Senior Citizen Limited Income Pass for WA State Parks

Another great community hub is Kitsap Regional Library. Our wonderful library has “Friends of the Library” groups in different branches throughout Kitsap County. You can participate in various workshops and assistance programs like crafting clubs, technology assistance, writing groups, genealogy resources, and more. Also, you can get help with insurance enrollment and address health concerns through the Peninsula Community Health Service Mobile Medical Clinic.

If you want to enjoy the library’s resources but can’t come to the library, check out their Mobile Services. You’ll be able to enjoy personalized service if you qualify. Mobile Services delivers library materials to healthcare facilities, group homes, and individual residences. 

Community & Volunteering  

There’s a plethora of volunteer options in Kitsap County. Some active organizations in the area include the Silverdale Rotary Club, known for its annual duck race, the Silverdale Sunrise Lions, and Silverdale Dandy Lions. Our office has supported a range of nonprofits, including Olive Crest, which supports local foster children. You can easily donate needed supplies to them or volunteer with them.

Other great ways to give back include volunteering with Parks and Rec for the City of Bremerton. The Puget Sound Naval Museum and Coffee Oasis are also recruiting volunteers to fill various roles.

Transportation

If driving is no longer an option, ACCESS and VanLink offer flexibility outside routed systems. ACCESS is meant for seniors and those with disabilities. An application and eligibility must be verified before scheduling a ride. VanLink is a shared-cost program that serves people who qualify as low-income, veterans, disabled, or seniors. Also available through Kitsap Transit is On-Demand and Dial-A-Ride services. The Foot Ferry service helps folks travel between Bremerton and Port Orchard without dealing with car traffic.

Housing Options

As you age, you might prefer to stay in your home as long as possible, aging in place. On the other hand, programming at a retirement community might sound enticing. To explore options, check out the Kitsap County Division of Aging and Long-Term Care for retirement resources and planning assistance.

There are a variety of senior living options with different needs in mind. For example, in Silverdale, you will find Encore and Fieldstone communities and Crista Shores, which offer a range of care levels, from independent living to memory care facilities. Another option is Bonaventure in Port Orchard. For veterans or qualified dependents, the Washington Veterans Home, built in 1910, overlooks Sinclair Inlet. Again, this depends upon your needs, and some services can be customized. It’s important to research each option. Try to connect with locals who live there or know people who do to get different perspectives. Many of our agents are longtime or lifelong locals who are well-connected. They can help you get more information if needed.

Additional Resources

If you want to learn even more, check out this 2024 Senior Resources guide. It contains contact information for everything from counseling to Medicare. You can also read about local hospitals, hearing specialists, different living options, and home health assistance programs. And, if you still have questions, our team of local experts is always happy to help.

Community August 6, 2024

Delicious New Places to Try in Central & South Kitsap

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 choose from, this list is definitely just a start.

Lives Up to the Hype

There has been quite a buzz surrounding Restaurant Lola since it opened in Bremerton last fall, and for good reason. Chef John Hall creates a memorable dining experience with locally sourced ingredients, craft cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere.  Additionally, the owners recently announced a catering offering

The Windermere team recommends making a reservation here for your next special occasion! Their menu often changes, but check out their sample menu. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available. 

Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Brunch: Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Great Burritos & Much More

The Daily Reggae Cafe & Lounge, located in the heart of the Charleston Business District on Callow Avenue in Bremerton, is already known for its burritos. It also offers a variety of fruit and salad bowls, avocado toast, waffles, sandwiches, and a full coffee bar. Aside from its regular hours, it has a range of special events, including live music and crafts classes, which can be found on its Facebook page. Vegan and gluten-free options are available.

The Windermere team recommends their Greek Breakfast Burrito or Waffle Mania

Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM + Special Events (as posted on Facebook)

New Owners, Same Splendid Sweets

Sugar Studios Cafe in Old Town Silverdale recently reopened under new ownership. Great news for previous customers: they are bringing back their beloved crepes. Even better news: their new menu includes bubble teas as well as poke bowls. We are excited to watch them roll out all of their new offerings. Considered a sister location to Bubz Cafe in Bremerton, these folks are on track to be boba pros.

The Windermere team recommends crepes, of course, plus new items as they are added.

Hours: Thursday – Sunday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (subject to change after the soft-opening phase)

Cute & Creative Coffee Drive-thru

Candyland Cafe is not your average coffee drive-thru. Located off Silverdale Way near the turn for Island Lake Park, this adorable spot is just as sweet as it looks. Decked out in bright pastel colors, you’ll find decadent flavor combinations like Chocolate Chip Cookie White Coffee, Fruity Pebbles Matcha, and Pink Flamingo Redbull, just to name a few. You will also find all of the usual coffee staples as well as breakfast sandwiches, burritos, and muffins.

The Windermere team recommends adding their soft-top cream to your favorite coffee – so good!

Hours: Monday – Friday, 5:30 AM – 5:30 PM; Saturday, 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM; Sunday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

 

Excellent Expansions & New Locations in South Kitsap

Khao Soi Thai recently opened a second location on Bay Street in Port Orchard. A local favorite in Manette, this second location features a much larger seating area. Serving a variety of noodle dishes and curries as well as appetizers and soups, be sure to visit the next time you’re in Bremerton or Port Orchard. Vegetarian/vegan and gluten-free options are available.

The Windermere team recommends Pad See Ew and Thai Iced Tea. 

Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Peninsula BrewHouse is the expansion of Peninsula BevCo. This Silverdale Waterfront restaurant and brewery has an expansive tap list and signature craft cocktails. Their menu offerings include unique twists on classics like tacos, pizzas, and burgers. Vegetarian/vegan options and gluten-free options are available.

The Windermere team recommends Bahn Mi Tacos, Sweet Potato Tots, and the Blackberry Bramble cocktail.

Hours: Tuesday – Thursday, 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Friday – Saturday, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

At its original location, Ristretto Stone became known for its coffee flight offerings. With its recent move to Wheaton Way, it has expanded its menu from beverages and snacks only to include daily fresh-baked goods, sandwiches, and in-house coffee roasting. A coffee flight is a perfect option for a social outing, and flavor options change monthly.

The Windermere team recommends the French Toast Sandwich & the Weekly Coffee Special

Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM

 

Home July 12, 2022

Delicious Summer Recipes Using Local Produce

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 produce. Bon Appetit!

Roasted Radishes

A quick search for radish recipes will show that this delicious veggie isn’t just meant for crudités. This Roasted Radishes recipe would make a tasty side dish to compliment many summer meals. And, you can prepare it with radishes from Pheasant Fields Farm. You can find them at the Poulsbo Farmers Market, Kitsap Fresh, or the Kitsap Community Food Co-Op.

BBQ Pork Chops

bbq-pork-spiva-cooking-recipe

Photo by Spiva Cooking.

Local chef Steve Spiva sells all of the spice blends you could ever dream of at his shop in Bremerton. This recipe for BBQ Pork Chops would be a delicious entrée for a summer party or a family meal. Grab some Port Townsend-raised pork from Foggy Hog Farms at the Bremerton Community Farmers Market and give it a shot. For more recipe inspiration and ways to use Spiva Spices, visit the Spiva recipes page

End of Summer Salad

blackberry-salad-house-in-hills-recipe

Photo by Sarah Yates.

We love this summer salad recipe because blackberries are possibly the most quintessential PNW summer food and can be found all over. Medulla Farms, a Bremerton urban farm, offers a wide selection of beautiful microgreens. They are available at Kitsap Fresh, Kitsap Community Food Co-Op or delivery through their website.

Carrot and Kohlrabi Slaw

kholrabi-slaw-recipe-istock

A fun variation on traditional coleslaw, this slaw recipe uses the “cabbage cousin” kohlrabi. It is offered at many local farms across Kitsap County. Check the Bremerton Community Farmers Market, Silverdale Farmers Market, Kitsap Community Food Co-Op, or Kitsap Fresh for who currently has it in stock. This slaw is packed with vitamins and would be a nice compliment to the BBQ pork chops recipe above. 

Rhubarb Crisp

rhubarb-crisp-delish-recipe

Photo from Delish.

Although it’s associated with sweet treats, rhubarb is actually a vegetable. This rhubarb recipe allows rhubarb to be the star of the show.  Usually considered a spring-harvest plant, this year’s cooler start to summer means that rhubarb is still prevalent with many local producers. Port Orchard’s Sound Grown Farm offers it via Kitsap Fresh, and we bet you can find it at the Bremerton Community Farmers Market. Kick your local shopping up a notch and grab some flour from Finnriver Farm & Grainery while you are getting ingredients together.

Elderberry Mocktail

elderberry-mocktail

Locally-made Syllings Elderberry syrup is a popular treat for many locals. It would also make a delicious addition to lemonade, iced tea, a mocktail, or a cocktail. Here’s an Elderberry Lime Immune Mocktail recipe from their Instagram. You can find their products at many local shops and farmers’ markets. 

More Recipes Using Local Produce

Bremerton Community Farmers Market

Every 3rd Thursday of the month at the Bremerton Community Farmers Market, you can find a special “Chef at the Market” demonstration. A local chef shares recipe ideas using local ingredients in cost-effective ways.

 

Kitsap Community Food Co-Op

Subscribe to Kitsap Community Food Co-Op’s newsletter for fun recipe ideas and tips on what to make with current offerings. They also provide weekly fresh sheets with what is currently in stock.

 

Kitsap Fresh Recipes

Get great recipes from locals using Kitsap Fresh by joining the Kitsap Fresh Facebook group. Additionally, they email the Fresh Sheet to subscribers each week. It includes what you can order online and recipes with a shopping list of ingredients you can add to your cart. 

Community May 31, 2022

Events in Silverdale & Bremerton to Enjoy Every Year

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 Prior to Easter at the Kitsap Mall

A favorite photo-op, kids can get their pictures with the Easter Bunny at the Kitsap Mall. Dates vary based on when Easter occurs but check back for a full schedule in 2023. Check out this event information from 2022

Cost: TBA

 

Egg Hunt

Saturday Prior to Easter at the Kitsap Tennis & Athletic Center

A multi-faceted Easter egg hunt, this fun event combines both land and water. Members and non-members can enjoy the athletic center and use the pool after hunting for eggs both in and out of the water. Here is information from the 2022 event. Check back in early 2023 for next year’s updated information.

Cost: TBA

 

Peninsula Home & Garden Expo

Second Weekend in May at the Kitsap Sun Pavillion, Kitsap County Fairgrounds

This is known as the “Biggest and Best Home Show West of Seattle®” and it’s presented by the Kitsap Building Association. It’s your one-stop shop for all things home and garden. From remodeling to home gadgets, gardening to outdoor living, this annual event is one to add to your calendar.

Cost: $8+

 

Armed Forces Day Festival

Saturday Closest to May 21st in Downtown Bremerton

This annual parade was started by the Bremerton Chamber of Commerce in 1948 to celebrate a local WWII hero. It’s been going strong for decades, celebrating the Armed Forces and Kitsap’s rich military history. 2022 was the 75th anniversary and it was a huge hit.

 

Kitsap Medieval Faire

June 18, 2022 at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds

Put on your best period-appropriate attire and enjoy a day of historical recreation. Journey through the wonders of the Middle Ages hosted by the Kitsap County local Society of Creative Anachronisms. An artisan village, war reenactment demonstrations, kid-zone, archery range, and equestrian shows are all part of the fun.

Cost: Pre-sale $10, at event $15, children 17 and under are free

 

Oldtimers by the Bay – Car Show

June 18, 2022  at Silverdale Waterfront Park

New this year, enjoy live music, classic cars, a 50/50 raffle, and more at this Father’s Day weekend event. Cars, trucks, motorcycles, and unique vehicles will be on display. 

Cost: $20 to participate, free to attend

 

Wayzgoose Kitsap

June 24 – 27, 2022 in Downtown Bremerton 

A public arts festival celebrating a tradition dating back to the 1600s, Wayzgoose Kitsap celebrates Central Kitsap’s vibrant art scene. Each summer, local artists create giant art pieces using hand-carved linoleum blocks and full-size steamrollers in downtown Bremerton. 

Cost: Free to attend

 

Bremerton Bridge Blast

June 25, 2022 at Bremerton Boardwalk & Evergreen Rotary Park

This great daytime festival includes food, vendors, a beer garden, and live entertainment at the Bremerton Boardwalk followed by the West Coast’s largest bridge fireworks display. Evergreen Rotary Park is the official “viewing” spot for the big show, and food trucks and tents will be there all day as well.

Cost: Varies by activity

 

NW Food Truck Fest

July 8 – 9, 2022 at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds

A two-day event of deliciousness, this food truck celebration is fun for the whole family. Kitsap is home to so many mobile food vendors, so having them all in one spot is a foodie’s dream. Enjoy bites from local favorites, live music, and a beer garden. Attendees can vote for their favorite food truck and the best booth.

Cost: Admission $10 – $15, purchases separate

 

 

Kitsap Pride

July 23, 2022 at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds

Now in its 26th year, this is the premier LGBTQ+ Pride event in Kitsap County. This year’s event is expected to have 50+ booths, a beer garden, food trucks, vendors, and wonderful live entertainment from DJs to drag performances. Check their Facebook event for more details as the time nears.

Cost: Varies by activity

 

Silverdale Whaling Days

Last Weekend in July at Silverdale Waterfront Park

Since 1974, Whaling Days has been a family favorite event in Silverdale. This community event has something for everyone: live music, kids’ activities, fireworks, a beer garden, food vendors, and the closing activity: the Rotary Duck Race. Check the Facebook event details or their website for an updated entertainment schedule.

Cost: Free to attend, activities vary

 

Rotary Duck Race

July 31, 2022 at Silverdale Waterfront Park

This event that closes out Whaling Days each year is a community staple, not only because of the fantastic prizes that can be won but because of the way that it gives back to locals in need. The event has raised over $1.7M for local nonprofits since its inception. Our Windermere Silverdale office is a proud sponsor.

Cost: $5 per ticket or 5 for $20

 

 

Kitsap Fair & Stampede

August 24 – 28, 2022 at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds & Events Center

A long-standing Kitsap tradition, the Fair showcases animals and homemade goods and hosts a rodeo, a demolition derby, carnival rides, and live entertainment. The rodeo runs nightly Wednesday to Friday with multiple events each night and the Demolition Derby is on Sunday. Live entertainment will feature music, dancing, and comedy. The first fair in Kitsap was held in 1923 in Port Orchard and it has grown exponentially over time with 2021’s attendance topping 47,000 people.

Cost: Varies by activity

 

Bremerton Blackberry Festival

Sept. 3 – 5, 2022 at the Bremerton Boardwalk

Presented by the Bremerton Rotary, this weekend event is a celebration of all things blackberry and includes 100+ vendors. It is the longest-running festival in Bremerton, bringing in an estimated 25,000 visitors over the course of Labor Day weekend. Live music and a beer garden are part of the festivities. All food vendors are required to sell one blackberry-themed item for a tasting fee of $5 or less. 

Cost: Varies by activity

 

Annual Fall & Winter Events

Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze

Mid-September to Halloween at Pheasant Fields Farm

One of the largest corn mazes in the West, this family activity is perfect for fall. Make your way through the corn maze, select a pumpkin from the many varieties available, and enjoy photo ops, fresh produce, and more. Check back for 2022 dates.

Cost: Free to visit the farm; purchases and maze separate

 

Kitsap Antique Show

October 29 & 30, 2022 at Presidents Hall, Kitsap County Fairgrounds

Antique lovers rejoice! This two-day event is full of vendors with lots of treasures to explore. And, if you have an item and are curious about its value, appraisers will be on-site. This event started in 1988 and is a collaborative effort by the Puget Sound Genealogical Society and the Kitsap History Museum. Food is available for purchase at the Heritage Cafe.

Cost: $6 admission, appraisals are $5 per item

 

Holiday Gift & Food Fair

November 18-20, 2022 at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds

This holiday shopping and craft event is the largest indoor holiday market on the Kitsap Peninsula. There are projected to be 180+ booths this year with various types of handmade goods. A full list of vendors and more information will be available in October.

Cost: $5+ ($1 off with food donation or free with Toys For Tots donation)

 

New Year’s Eve at the Roxy

December 31, 2022 at the Roxy Theater

Ring in the New Year at the Historic Roxy Theater. Live music, food, vendors, and more. The event is also a fundraiser for the theater. Learn about the 2021/2022 event, and check back for more information about the 2022/2023 event as it nears. 

Cost: TBA

 

Recurring Events

Bremerton Community Farmers Market

Thursdays, Mid-April through Sept. 4:00 – 7:00 PM at Evergreen Rotary Park

More than just fresh produce and flowers, the Bremerton Community Farmers Market offers different activities such as yoga, live music, cooking demonstrations, and kids’ activities. They are a participant in SNAP match for EBT customers, and also offer “kids bucks” to children who participate in monthly activities, promoting healthy habits for kids.

Cost: Free to attend, purchases vary


 

Silverdale Farmers Market

Tuesdays, Mid-April through Sept. 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM in the Silverdale Antiques Parking Lot

At this weekly market, you’ll find locally-made artisan crafts, body care items, plant starts, ready-to-eat food, as well as fresh produce and flowers. The 2022 location of the market is in the parking lot of Silverdale Antiques. The weekday schedule for the market allows for farmers to sell produce on an additional day, on top of typical weekend markets. The Silverdale Farmers Market is a participant in the Senior SNAP program, helping seniors have more access to farm-fresh produce.

Cost: Free to attend, purchases vary

 

 

First Friday Art Walk

First Friday of Each Month, 5:00 – 8:00 PM in Downtown Bremerton & Manette

Rain or shine every month, you’ll find artists, musicians, and First Friday specials across these participating businesses in downtown Bremerton and Manette. Walk across the Manette Bridge to enjoy the fun on both sides of the water. Art galleries, restaurants, and local shops are part of this event, which is organized by the Arts District of the Downtown Bremerton Association

Cost: Free to attend, purchases vary 

CommunityHome March 28, 2022

Kitsap’s Eco-Friendly Products and Services to Check Out

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 for Your Home That Are Eco-Friendly

Swedish dishcloths are gaining popularity as an alternative to sponges and paper towels. You can find them in places like Nordiska in Poulsbo, which also has some other eco-friendly home items.

At Frog Soap in Bremerton, you’ll find eco-friendly options for zero waste dish soap, laundry powder, wool dryer balls, glass soap jars, and more. They also sell a variety of personal care items as well, including hand soaps and shaving products.

Cloth napkins are the perfect alternative to single-use paper napkins. Earthtastic, a vendor at Red Plantation Marketplace in Poulsbo, offers alternatives to napkins, paper towels, snack bags, and more.

Delicious Options

Whether you are a gardener growing some of your own food or not, Kitsap Fresh is a great local resource for buying local produce online. Additionally, you can purchase eggs, meat, dairy, baked goods, and more. Buying local goods instead of long-haul shipped items lowers the carbon footprint of your meal. It also keeps dollars in our local economy. An online farmers market co-op, Kitsap Fresh connects you to more than 40 local food producers. Some local brands and farms include CB’s Nuts, Oxalis Kitchen, Bremerton Produce Co., and HeyDay Farm. Every weekend, you can easily order online and then pick up your order on Wednesdays at one of their many pick-up locations. Also, they offer home delivery in most Kitsap communities. 

You can also shop locally and sustainably by visiting Kitsap’s farmers’ markets. Bring your reusable bags and fill them with fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, and more. Watch our video to see some of what they offer.

 

Another way to help the environment when it comes to food is to buy dry goods and other foods in bulk. It can reduce packaging and help you save if you use reusable jars and bags. We recommend stores like Kitsap Food Co-Op in Bremerton, Sprouts in Silverdale, and Town & Country Markets in Poulsbo and Bainbridge Island. Most stores also sell containers next to the bulk food sections and employees can suggest containers that best fit each food type.

Green Ideas for Personal Care and Clothing

From made-in-store sugar scrubs and lotion to reusable makeup wipes, Away With Words in Poulsbo has a lot to offer for personal care items. And, if you bring your glass jar back for reuse, you’ll receive 10% off your next lotion purchase. Hippie Witch Skincare in Port Orchard carries a variety of natural items made with essential oils including deodorant, body butter, and bath salts, as well as hand-poured soy candles.

Keep great outfits from ending up in a landfill by donating or shopping at local second-hand shops like Lucky Star in Silverdale and Kingston, Second Season Thrift in Poulsbo, and Bella Luna Consignment Boutique in Bremerton. 

Natural Products for Babies and Kids

With a variety of natural products from maternity through young childhood, Blossom Baby Boutique in Silverdale is a great resource for families. You’ll find everything from skincare to wooden, Montessori-style toys.

If you’re looking for a gift for a little one in your life, check out local Poulsbo shop Toys Etc. You’ll find a fun selection of toys made from recycled materials, as well as cute wooden animals. Or, you can visit the newest addition to Bay Street in Port Orchard, Brick Ally. They specialize in the resale of legos and lego sets – some even dating back to the 1960s. Purchasing second-hand legos keeps them in circulation and out of the trash. 

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Services

Some local home cleaning companies like Clean Green and Kitsap Cleaning are known for their green practices using natural, organic, and non-toxic cleaning products. 

If you are looking to have some of your delicate clothing items cleaned, Evergreen Cleaners is an eco-friendly option. They use wet cleaning (vs. typical dry cleaning), which doesn’t use harsh chemicals.   

Buy Nothing Groups

Local Buy Nothing Project groups are popping up all over. Each neighborhood or town usually has its own. Most are run as Facebook groups, so do an online search to see which one is closest to you. Essentially, it’s an online swap-meet where you can find almost anything you might be looking for – a great community-building project, and a way to keep items in use.

Real Estate Market October 11, 2021

Third Quarter Market Review for Central Kitsap

Our Central Kitsap real estate market continues to grow in volume. Keep reading for key highlights about our strong seller’s market. 

central-kitsap-third-quarter-stats

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 Kitsap Peninsula.  And, these eager buyers outnumber sellers – even with Central Kitsap’s growing sales volume.  Our Brokers often see multiple offer situations, resulting in bidding wars. However, if you’re looking to buy, don’t let that discourage you. That’s exactly why you need a local real estate agent to serve as your advocate and provide insight into this competitive market.

Market Data

Our third quarter of 2021 continues to thrive, both in sales volume and the large demand for homes in Kitsap County, WA.  Home prices are still growing at a consistent rate, just as they did last quarter.  This strong growth will probably slow down as we near the holiday season.  And, if price growth does slow, we might see the market shift away from favoring sellers to a more balanced state.

central-kitsap-sold-pending-graph

Central Kitsap’s sale prices are very strong. During our third quarter, they increased by 19.7% year-over-year.  While affordability is becoming more of an issue, it looks like we may be heading toward a more balanced market. More on that in the next section.

listing-sale-price-graph-central-kitsap

Home Purchase Sentiment Index

In his most recent Monday with Matthew video, our Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner, analyzed the data from Fannie Mae’s most recent Home Purchase Sentiment Index. The data comes from a survey containing roughly 100 questions on housing-related topics. Fannie Mae collected 1,000 consumer responses from across the country. As Matthew Gardner says, “It’s the only national, monthly survey that’s focused primarily on housing.”

The survey shows that many Americans continue to think it is not a good time to buy because of the low supply and rapidly rising prices.  However, many feel it is a good time to sell as consumers predict home prices and mortgage rates will go down.  As Gardner explains, “most consumers continue to report that it’s a good time to sell a home, but a bad time to buy. They most frequently cite high home prices and a lack of supply as their primary rationale…However, the good time to buy component did tick up for the first time since March.”  Gardner sums it up by saying, “Consumers tempered both their recent pessimism about home buying conditions and their upward expectations of home price growth.”  So again, we are seeing the potential for a shift toward a more balanced market.

Community August 16, 2021

Community Spotlight: PAWS of Bremerton

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 believesevery living being has an inalienable right to life and the dignity and respect which that life implies.” This charity manages cat adoptions and has an on-site rescue center. It is also a no-kill shelter. This means they do not euthanize cats due to a lack of space, personality, breed, or the cat’s coat color. They only euthanize for humane reasons to relieve unmanageable pain and suffering. 

Additionally, PAWS of Bremerton provides financial assistance for low-income and unemployed Kitsap County residents and military personnel who need spay/neuter and vaccination services for their pets. Bremerton Animal Hospital’s generous assistance makes this possible. 

Cats and kittens are available for adoption and/or surrender on an appointment-only basis. You can find photos of cats/kittens available for adoption on Petfinder.

Easy Ways to Support PAWS of Bremerton

There are many easy ways to support this wonderful nonprofit. If you shop at Fred Meyer, you can associate your rewards card with PAWS of Bremerton. Then when you shop there, they give donations to PAWS. The same goes for Amazon. Just visit Amazon Smile and direct your donations to PAWS of Bremerton.

Since it’s a 501C3 charity, all donations including goods and services are tax-deductible. This organization runs solely on donations. You can easily drop off cash or a check at their office. Or, you can donate online through PayPal.

If you’d like to donate supplies, check out the list below. You can drop supplies off at their Adoption Center located at 3306 N. Perry Ave in Bremerton.

Supplies Needed:

  • Scoopable Cat Litter 
  • Wet Canned Cat Food – Friskies paté or Kitten/Adult Fancy Feast
  • Cat Treats
  • Purina Kitten Chow – Nurture
  • Kirkland Grain-free Cat food from Costco
  • Cardboard Cat Scratchers
  • Paper Towels
  • Toilet Paper
  • Dishwashing Soap
  • Liquid Laundry Soap/Pods
  • Liquid Hand Soap
  • Household Beach
  • Window Cleaner
  • Copy Paper

Become a Volunteer

Volunteering is a meaningful way to connect to our community. And, what better way to give your day a boost than to help animals live fuller, healthier lives? Our Windermere Silverdale office recently dedicated a full day to PAWS of Bremerton during our annual Community Service Day. We painted the entire inside of the building and we did a bunch of yard work. Our real estate agents and staff always love helping out in our community, and it was great to give back to an organization that gives so much. 

If you’re able to regularly give a bit of your time, you can become a volunteer. PAWS of Bremerton needs volunteers who are 16 or older and can commit to one weekly shift (1.5 – 2 hours). For most roles in the facility, volunteers need to be able to squat, bend/kneel, twist, stand for one to two hours, and climb at least two flights of stairs. Volunteers help keep cats healthy and clean, learn to run the office, and help meet the public’s needs. If you’d like to volunteer but have any limitations which require accommodations, just let the volunteer coordinator know. To get started, you can call (360) 373-7043 for details.

To stay up to date on their latest news and see adorable photos of cats and kittens available for adoption, you can follow their Facebook page. We hope you’ll consider supporting this great nonprofit in whatever way you can.

Real Estate Market July 10, 2021

Second Quarter Market Review for Central Kitsap

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 and that has enabled these buyers to consider areas outside major cities – like Central Kitsap.  Now these eager buyers outnumber sellers.  Our Brokers continue to experience situations where some buyers are outbid either by price or by an all-cash offer in this competitive market.

If you look at the last five quarters detailed in the graph below, the market is still growing year-over-year.  This data indicates the summer market will continue to heat up.

Since our inventory remains low, the prices continue to rise. Historically low mortgage rates are enabling many buyers to purchase homes for higher prices. As you can see below, the listing and sale price divergence is shrinking now. So if you’re thinking of selling, now is a great time to do so. 

Market Insights From Our Chief Economist

In his most recent Monday with Matthew, our Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner, begins with the staggering fact that “prices have risen almost three-fold, as the cost to finance has dropped by 72%.”  If the number sounds too good (or bad) to be true, that’s because it is. To get an accurate picture, you also have to factor in inflation. Gardner explains that “just like other goods and services, the price of a house today is not directly comparable to the price of that same house 30 years ago because of the long run influence of inflation.”  When you adjust for inflation, the rise in housing prices becomes less drastic. Without adjusting for inflation, “prices have risen by 268%”. But when you adjust for inflation, the “real prices have increased by 83.6%”.  Therefore, the increase is much lower than what most people are discussing today.

Matthew also compares mortgage payments, another important piece of the puzzle.  Although, without adjusting for inflation, “mortgage payments have increased by 74.3%,” the inflation-adjusted “real payments are 10.7% lower!”  Of course, there are other monthly payments associated with home ownership. This includes property taxes, which do not change with market fluctuations. But this still indicates “that prices have been able to rise so significantly because mortgage rates have dropped”. It’s also because “inflation-adjusted home prices really haven’t skyrocketed – contrary to popular opinion.”

However, Matthew clarifies saying, “there are some markets across the country where the picture isn’t quite as rosy.  In these places, prices have risen significantly more than the national average.”  The Seattle metropolitan subunit (which extends around our local area) is one of these places. This is largely due to the increasing affluence as a result of the tech boom.

Not a Housing Bubble

Gardner’s bottom line is this: “there are quantifiable reasons to believe that we are not in a national housing bubble today.” However, he does point out that some markets will see a slowdown in price growth given “where prices are today in concert with the spectre of rising mortgage rates.”  Ultimately, it’s still a strong seller’s market with an overall low supply and high demand. We expect to continue to see issues with affordability as prices and mortgage rates continue to climb.

 

Real Estate Market April 8, 2021

First Quarter Market Review for Central Kitsap

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.

first quarter market stats

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 appealing to people who are moving away from bigger cities as COVID-19 changes the way we work. There are still many eager buyers outnumbering sellers as inventory remains low and demand remains high. Our Brokers can help you navigate this competitive market. Many current buyers are being outbid and it can be an overwhelming process. That’s why it’s so important to have a local expert as your guide. 

In the last five quarters outlined in the graph below, there’s a similar growth trend when comparing 2020’s first quarter to 2021’s first quarter. And, we saw a 15% increase in closed sales year over year. Get ready for the market to continue to heat up as we move from spring to summer.

sold pending graph

As you can see below, the listing and sale prices both continue to rise as sellers continue to benefit from our inventory shortage.  Many buyers have still been able to meet the pricing demands of this seller’s market. But low inventory means we’ll continue to see even higher prices.  These prices could reach an affordability ceiling where potential buyers will be priced out of the market.

Affordability Issues and Market Insights

Matthew Gardner, Windermere’s Chief Economist, continues to track this affordability ceiling in his most recent Housing and Economic Update: “If the pace of home price growth continues, many households will start to be priced out” of what people can actually afford.  As Gardner points out, we need more supply, and we need home prices to drop to alleviate this market strain.

Unfortunately, that might not happen fast enough for many hopeful homebuyers to make their dream a reality. Gardner reminds us that the cost of materials, recent storms, and the current housing market prices have all added to the cost of building new homes. This, in turn, will add to the listing price.

Additionally, Gardner points out that mortgage rates have risen after “a jump in bond yields has led rates to spike” as the country re-opens and economic activity increases. The resulting potential inflation causes the 10-year treasury interest rates to rise in hopes of attracting more buyers.  However, it is still far below standard rates and shouldn’t be a concern for buyers right now.

 

Ultimately, it’s still a strong Seller’s Market with an overall low supply and high demand. We expect to continue to see issues with affordability as prices continue to climb.

Community April 2, 2021

Community Spotlight: Kitsap Sailing Foundation

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 world of almost limitless opportunities for fun, adventure, exploration, and self-achievement,” says Windermere Broker Mark Danielsen, whose kids developed a deep love for sailing. In fact, his son and his niece took lessons and became youth sailing instructors. The foundation has impacted so many kids’ lives, so we’re shining a light on this wonderful organization.

History

In 2006, a group of volunteers formed the Kitsap Sailing and Rowing Foundation to support youth programs in Kitsap County. The foundation’s volunteers assist in running programs, maintaining equipment, and coordinating boat acquisition. The Port of Silverdale and the Kitsap Sailing Foundation (KSF) partnered to continue the program. Clam Island Rowing became its own non-profit as interest in rowing grew. The Kitsap Sailing Foundation continues to provide training, mentorship, and summer camp programs while helping the port acquire new sailboats and equipment and expanding its existing curriculum.

sailing aerial

Photo by Leo Phillips.

Summer Sailing Camps for Kids and Teens

KSF offers a variety of programs, including summer sailing camps for kids and teens. No prior experience is needed. STEM education has also been incorporated into the sailing curriculum to provide an even more in-depth learning experience. The Youth and Teen Sailing Summer Camps provide an excellent opportunity for youth to learn about marine life in an unrestricted outdoor classroom. While building friendships and learning to work as a team, kids learn about topics like wind power and water quality. 

Summer camps are daily and last for one week. They will be offered this summer starting June 21, 2021 and ending August 6, 2021. Youth camps are from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM while teen camps are from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Five-day camps are $150 per session, and four-day camps are $120 per session. 

Impacting Youth in Many Ways

Getting kids and teens involved in outdoor activities can help them in so many ways. They learn to appreciate nature, stay physically active, and participate in experiential learning activities. “One of the things we have learned from the Covid-19 lockdown is how important it is for our youth to be engaging with others and staying active. We are very pleased to be able to offer sailing as an outlet for the youth to be outside, off their screens, and engaging with others,” says John Bouck, President of the Kitsap Sailing Foundation.

“The Kitsap Sailing Foundation high school sailing team program has also been important to the Bremerton Yacht Club,” explains Mark Danielsen. “High school sailors from Silverdale who develop their skills and become certified instructors often teach summer sailing camps at Bremerton Yacht Club as well as the Port of Silverdale.”

These programs can offer long-term benefits as well, sometimes even impacting students’ educational and career trajectories. “My daughter joined the Central Kitsap Sailing Team. She developed new friendships, enjoyed racing with her team throughout the PNW, and became a U.S. Sailing certified instructor,” says Julie Wurden Jablonski, Windermere Broker, and Kitsap Sailing Foundation Treasurer/Board Director. Julie’s daughter has “taught youth camps at the Port of Silverdale and volunteers to help coach the team. Many sailors go on to race in collegiate programs, and some have gone on to sailing and recreation careers.”

sailboat

CKHS Sailing Team: Kolin Stumpf (crew) and Stefan Anthony. Photo by Julie Wurden Jablonski, courtesy of KSF.

Support through Kitsap Great Give or Get Involved 

If you’d like to support KSF, it is the perfect time to do so since Kitsap Great Give is going on now through April 20, 2021. Kitsap Great Give celebrates our community’s spirit of generosity, supporting our local nonprofits, like the Kitsap Sailing Foundation. Sponsors boost local donations so your donation could even be doubled. Donate to the Kitsap Sailing Foundation before April 20 to make an even bigger impact.

If you’d like to support the foundation at a different time, you can make a donation on their website. Additionally, businesses can become a sponsor and have their name on the side of a sailboat. For more information, email info@kitsapsailing.org or call (360) 447-8520.

Also, the foundation welcomes community involvement. They seek certified sailing instructors for coaching, boat repair skills, and fundraising event assistance. They are also open to new community members joining their board of directors.

For more information on this year’s events, follow their Facebook page.