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What to Know Before Moving to Central or South Kitsap County
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 County, you’ll never want to leave! From fantastic restaurants and small businesses to state-of-the-art medical care, top-notch beaches, and hiking, everything you need is within a 30-minute drive!”
Kitsap County is a large geographic area in Western Washington that borders Puget Sound. Due to the expansive area, portions of the county are referred to as North, Central, or South Kitsap. We’ve compiled some helpful information focusing on what Central and South Kitsap provide.
The real estate market is strong and varied
In Central and South Kitsap County, you’ll find many single-family homes for sale, as well as condos, waterfront properties, manufactured homes, and more. There are also many new builds, and we’ve seen a steady increase in people moving here from the Seattle area. Our Windermere Silverdale office has a team of experts ready to help you navigate the market. As the spring market heats up, we expect to see more multiple offer situations. So, if you’re thinking of buying this spring or summer, we recommend speaking to a local Realtor right away. Because our area has a range of properties, you want to work with someone who knows our market well, and can speak to the history and nuances of certain neighborhoods.
The cost of living is lower
The cost of living in Central or South Kitsap County is generally more affordable than surrounding areas. Check out the most recent quarterly market data to learn about home sales in Kitsap County. Also, while the property tax rate for Port Orchard, Bremerton and Silverdale vary by city, they all have rates at or below the state’s median property tax rate of 0.88%.
Enjoy the ferries to Seattle
There is a ferry to Seattle from Bremerton and the crossing time is 60 minutes. Another option is the Kitsap Fast Ferry. This is a passenger-only ferry (vs. the large WA State Ferries, which you can drive onto). The Fast Ferry gets Bremerton commuters to Seattle in 30 minutes or less. Additionally, the Port Orchard Fast Ferry takes passengers to Bremerton in 12 minutes.
Be sure to check all ferry schedules for updates. You can download the WSDOT app (or follow them on social media). Additionally, you can subscribe to Fast Ferry alerts. Ferries can be impacted by weather, maintenance, and unforeseen circumstances so it’s important to stay in the loop if you plan on using them to get to work.
We have a strong military presence
Naval Base Kitsap greatly contributes to our community’s military presence. Encompassing over 12,000 acres across the Kitsap Peninsula between two sites, it houses the country’s third largest fleet concentration. Their presence means there is a strong civilian and military workforce, as well as military-related resources.
If you or your spouse are in the military and are going to be stationed here soon, check out our Military Resources page. You’ll find everything from in-depth school information to VA loan resources.
We have many great schools
Central Kitsap School District primarily serves students and families in Silverdale and portions of Bremerton. South Kitsap School District primarily serves students in Port Orchard, as well as some portions of Bremerton. Both school districts serve students from elementary to high school and offer a wide variety of services.
There are also private school options in all three cities, as well as different preschools and daycares.
There are many fun things to do here
Compared to North Kitsap County, Central and South Kitsap County tend to have a more active nightlife. These areas are also relatively close to other towns such as Gig Harbor and Tacoma, and the ferry makes Seattle just a boat-ride away from big concerts, Seahawks games, and more. We have big box stores like Costco, Trader Joe’s, and Target. There are also large shopping centers with well-known retailers in the Kitsap Mall and The Trails at Silverdale.
Bremerton and Port Orchard also have downtown waterfronts to explore. The Port Orchard waterfront has restaurants, playgrounds, and small shops. They also host a series of annual events downtown, such as the upcoming Ladies Night Out on April 25th.
Downtown Bremerton and its waterfront is also expanding. The city has a strong arts scene, with special event venues like the Admiral Theatre and the Roxy Theatre. There is also a wealth of information on the city’s website to explore local activities, including an events calendar. The annual Blackberry Festival is a huge event every summer that attracts locals and visitors alike.
Windermere Broker/Realtor Mark Plastina has lived here since he was fourteen and raves about the proximity to different activities. “The location is centralized to anything I need…If I feel the need for a relaxing afternoon, I go to Poulsbo. If I feel that need to see friends and play softball, I go to west Bremerton or Port Orchard. It doesn’t take a lot of time to get to places.”
Outdoor activities are endless
No matter which part of Kitsap County you are in, you are able to do all kinds of outdoor activities. Popular hiking trails include the Illahee Preserve and Dickerson Creek Falls in Bremerton. Banner Forest Heritage Park in Port Orchard is also wonderful and Clear Creek Trail in Silverdale offers over 7 miles of trails – a beautiful break from the city.
Golfers can enjoy places like Gold Mountain Golf Club in Bremerton or Trophy Lake Golf & Casting in Port Orchard. Mountain bikers and horseback riders can share the trails at Ueland Tree Farm and Newberry Hill Heritage Park. The opportunities are truly endless.
If you prefer to be on the water, grab a kayak or paddle board and follow the Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trails map for scenic views. There are also local boat rentals out of the Bremerton and Port Orchard marinas for sightseeing or fishing. Additionally, we have local lakes scattered around Central and South Kitsap that are good for fishing, swimming or picnicking in the summertime.
If you’re looking for an overall lower cost of living while still staying near big-city amenities, then Port Orchard, Bremerton and Silverdale are great options. Though we may be biased, we invite you to explore our area. We think you’ll discover it’s an incredible place to live.
New Agent Spotlight: Nicole Quinene
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, encompassing both a goal of learning about property management and my genuine desire to educate individuals on the power of real estate investment. My journey began with a focus on property management. However, I felt it was crucial to explore real estate sales to find out if my true passion lay in home sales and education, before fully committing to property management. The more time I spend in the world of real estate, the more I realize my passion is to educate homebuyers and help them unlock the full potential of property ownership. That emerged as the primary focus of my interests. Additionally, my fascination and background with homes in need of remodeling have sparked an interest in the potential investment opportunities they offer.
My motivation as a broker is driven by a profound desire to empower individuals to invest in their future through real estate. I am motivated by a strong sense of purpose to support individuals who may not have had adequate access to information about property ownership and investment. Additionally, I fully recognize the potential investment opportunities presented by homes in need of remodeling, seeing them as not only a chance to revitalize properties but also to unlock their full financial potential for buyers.
My aspiration is to be an advocate for education, to share invaluable insights, and to shape perceptions surrounding home ownership and its profound impact on individuals’ futures.
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
As someone new to the real estate industry, my background as a specialty contractor equips me with a unique set of skills and insights that I believe will enhance my effectiveness as a realtor. This experience enables me to guide clients through properties, identifying potential opportunities for improvement along the way. Drawing from my problem-solving skills, honed through navigating unforeseen challenges at job sites, I am confident in my ability to address any issues that may arise during real estate transactions, finding creative solutions to ensure a positive outcome.
Furthermore, my experience in customer service, cultivated through direct interactions with clients, allows me to build strong relationships and communicate effectively. I believe these skills will contribute significantly to my ability to provide exceptional service throughout the home buying or selling process.
Overall, I am optimistic that my background as a specialty contractor will enrich my abilities as a realtor, offering valuable skills, knowledge, and perspectives that will contribute to my success in the industry.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
As a new real estate agent, I believe certain personality traits are crucial for my success in this profession. Firstly, emotional awareness and understanding are vital. Being empathetic and attentive to clients’ emotions helps build trust and address their needs effectively. Effective problem-solving skills are also key, enabling me to navigate challenges and find creative solutions to meet clients’ goals. Additionally, resilience is essential for overcoming setbacks and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of rejection and adversity. Adaptability is another critical trait I believe to be important, allowing me to adjust to new situations and remain flexible in a constantly changing environment. I believe as a real estate agent having perseverance is fundamental in having determination in pursuing goals, even in the face of challenges. Lastly, my curiosity drives continuous learning and growth, motivating me to seek out new experiences and expand my knowledge.
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I primarily serve Kitsap County, focusing specifically on the communities of Bremerton, Silverdale, and Port Orchard, which offer immense potential for investment. These areas boast a dynamic mix of urban amenities and scenic landscapes, with the natural beauty of Puget Sound alongside easy access to the vibrant city life of Seattle, and close proximity to Pierce County.
Kitsap County provides a diverse range of housing options, catering to various preferences and lifestyles, appealing to both homebuyers and investors. In particular, Bremerton, Silverdale, and Port Orchard are prime locations with ample opportunities for development and remodeling projects, offering exceptional investment potential.
How long have you lived here and what brought you here?
In 2000, my family moved from Guam to Bremerton when I was starting high school because of my father’s job transfer. I spent several years away from Washington while serving in the Air Force as a medical technician, and I returned to Washington because much of my immediate family still resided here.
How are you involved in the community?
My husband and I own a small business that primarily services the Kitsap County area. Additionally, I find fulfillment in giving back through volunteer work at our church, where I dedicate my time to caring for children in the nursery and toddler classroom. I recently enrolled with my oldest daughter in a Chamorro cultural dance class located in Tacoma, which offered a wonderful opportunity to immerse ourselves in our heritage and connect with others in the community.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
When considering which real estate agency to align myself with, my decision to work with Windermere was clear from the start. Despite not having personal experience with Windermere, I was aware of its highly professional reputation. It was important to me to align myself with a company that has a strong presence and established roots within the community. Windermere’s longstanding reputation and commitment to excellence made it the obvious choice for me. I wanted to immerse myself in an environment where I could learn from experienced professionals and contribute to a brokerage that is truly part of the community it serves.
If you’re interested in learning more about Nicole Quinene, you can check out her website, which contains local resources and helpful real estate tips. You can also follow her on Facebook or connect with her on Instagram.
Welcome to the Windermere family, Nicole!
Buying a House Out of State – FAQs
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 rental property. Whatever the reason, the information below will answer some frequently asked questions (FAQs) associated with buying a home from afar.
What are the costs associated with buying a house in Washington state?
First and foremost, buying a house in Washington state means factoring in the cost of living and housing prices in different areas. For example, Washington homebuyers can live in the city of Seattle, in nearby suburbs, or in more rural areas. The cost of living in different parts of our state varies. Check out Bankrate’s cost of living calculator to get a sense of housing costs compared to where you live right now. The property tax rates also vary by state. Additionally, real estate laws, closing costs, and even the climate can impact your home-buying decision. Learn more about purchasing a home in Washington state, and check out our informative video below to learn about the new WA state real estate law changes.
What should I consider when looking at homes on the market?
Before spending hours looking at homes online, ask yourself these important questions to narrow your search and identify your wants and needs:
1. Will this home be your primary residence, a rental home, a vacation home, or a vacation rental?
If the new home will be rented out, consider the pros and cons of managing the property personally or finding a property management company to handle marketing, screening tenants, home repairs, and more.
2. When thinking of the price, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the square footage, the kitchen’s layout, the neighborhood, and more, what do you need to have and what would you like to have?
3. Do you want a turnkey home or a fixer-upper?
4. What do you look for in a community? Think about if you want any amenities to be within walking distance or a short drive. Consider local schools, commute time, and opportunities for community involvement.
These are all important considerations to list out before you get wrapped up in pictures online. There are many beautiful places to live, but finding the place that will suit you best is key. Doing this from a distance (across states or overseas) can be tricky. That’s why creating a crystal clear picture of what you need and want before you start searching is so crucial. You’ll know what to look for, what to avoid, and what questions to ask when you’re ready to contact a real estate agent.
What should I consider when looking for a good real estate agent?
Using a local buyer’s agent has numerous benefits when buying a house out of state. They know the local real estate market and will utilize the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS) to identify homes that fit your budget and meet your criteria. Unable to tour homes in person? That’s okay. They can show it to you through video chat while pointing out specific features or flaws. Also, they will be able to answer all of your questions about different neighborhoods and communities. They can provide you will all kinds of local resources, recommended vendors, and much more. When it’s time to negotiate, they will serve as your trusted advocate. Additionally, many of our agents are relocation specialists. They possess years of experience helping manage and prepare for their clients’ long-distance moves.
If you or your spouse are in the military, consider an agent with that background. Here at Windermere Silverdale, we can provide military resources, and we love working with military families. In fact, many of our agents are veterans, have family members who have served, and/or have helped many military homebuyers and sellers for years.
The bottom line is, you want to find a highly-rated, well-connected local agent. They should have relocation expertise, extensive knowledge about the area they want to live in and be a well-organized project manager and a strong negotiator.
How does it work when there are contingencies?
It’s important to understand what might be involved in a contingent offer when buying a home out of state. As a homebuyer, you may need to include a home sale contingent offer if you are trying to sell your current home before moving. There are different types of home sale contingencies, and they have pros and cons. So if any of them apply to your situation, be sure to fully discuss them with your real estate agent so that you’re able to make well-informed decisions.
How can I streamline the home-buying process?
Buying a home out of state can create challenges when it comes to your desired timeline. Read through our Guide to Buying a Home (PDF) for a complete picture of the home-buying process. This guide will explain the pre-approval process and how to make a competitive offer. It explains escrow, home inspections, and more. It is the perfect place to start when beginning your out-of-state home-buying journey.
Another way to streamline the home-buying process is to get connected with a local real estate agent and a local lender. Additionally, these homebuying tips from a few of our local experts are helpful to know.
We wish you the best of luck with your big move and finding your ideal home here in Washington state!
New Agent Spotlight: Mark Plastina
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 parents in the process of buying our house. It was interesting to me. Then time passed, and I got to experience buying a house with my wife, Kimberly, for our own family. A few years after that, we were fortunate to have the opportunity to sell our first house and buy a different home that suits our family’s needs. I wasn’t a real estate agent back then, but I was really into the documents, mindful of how things were moving, and I made sure I understood everything. This is what got me into real estate. I want to be the trusted Real Estate Agent who ensures their clients are well-represented and that they understand the process, not missing any details.
What unique professional skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
In my work history, I’ve been a worker, and I’ve been a manager. I believe having experienced both perspectives will enhance my abilities as a Realtor. As a worker, I perform the work diligently and pay attention to the details. As a manager, I solve higher-level problems, orchestrate projects, and give directions to my teams. I can list many more experiences/skills, but I think these traits, combined, hit the mark on how I can reach success as a Realtor.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
It’s important to have integrity, a passion for excellence, a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, adaptability, perseverance, and great customer service skills. In this profession, every situation is different, which presents challenges, so a successful real estate agent should have these traits.
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about our area?
I primarily serve Kitsap County and its neighboring areas. I’ve been to some other states, and I can say that nothing beats the freshness of the Pacific Northwest. I enjoy the beautiful scenery here and the climate.
How long have you lived here, and what brought you here?
I’ve been living in Kitsap County since 2006; I was a teenager that migrated from the Philippines. That time is one of the biggest turning points in my life and a culture shock. But it didn’t take long for me to feel happy living here. Then Kitsap became my home. There were a few years I was away from Kitsap County when I served in the U.S. Air Force. I came back to Bremerton because this is home for me; this is where my family is.
How are you involved in the community?
In addition to working as a Broker/Realtor, I work at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. I believe that the work we do there contributes to the Kitsap community and to the whole nation, as the goal is to preserve our national security.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
I would like to start with the vibe I felt when I first entered the office. It’s a good vibe! What really made me decide to work with Windermere is their mentoring program, the supportive group of personnel in the office, and how Windermere gives back to our community. I kept hearing great things, and I was looking for a firm that would guide me as a successful Real Estate Agent. I believe Windermere is it.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Yes, I’m having a good time learning more about real estate and am extremely excited to grow my real estate career with Windermere! I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to assist my clients with their real estate needs and dreams. Work with me, and I’ll guide you all the way!
We’re so glad Mark Plastina has joined our Windermere team. If you’d like to connect with him, check out his website and follow him on Facebook and Instagram.
Silverdale & Bremerton: Strong Communities, Convenience and Charm
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 the Kitsap Peninsula. There are local favorites like Purpose Boutique, Lisa Stirrett Glass Art Studio, and Silverdale Antiques. And, you can find everything you need by visiting Kitsap Mall, Trader Joe’s, and Costco. Great stops for a bite to eat include popular places like Monica’s Waterfront Bakery & Cafe, Jo:a Japanese Restaurant and Yacht Club Broiler.
While it’s a strong center for economic development today, Silverdale actually started in a modest fashion. First formed in 1920 as an unincorporated port to serve the logging industry, Silverdale transitioned to a farming town. This gave way to Scandinavian immigrants who became the first permanent settlers in Silverdale.
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- Aerial view, Port of Silverdale, 1952
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- Visitors at the old dock in Silverdale on Dyes Inlet, Kitsap County
In the decades that followed, the introduction to the ‘Bremerton-to-Poulsbo Highway’ changed Silverdale into Kitsap’s busy commercial center. Over time, Silverdale began adding amenities like the popular Silverdale Waterfront Park to honor the proud Old Town port of its early days.
Bremerton’s Beginnings
Founded by the vision of Real Estate businessman, William Bremer, and platted in 1891, Bremerton houses the largest Naval Shipyard on the West Coast. The Puget Sound Naval Shipyard survived both World Wars and was even expanded during the Great Depression.
Points of Pride
Today, Bremerton is the largest city in Kitsap County. It has a population of over 41,000. By ferry, Bremerton residents reach Seattle within an hour to enjoy the larger city life across Puget Sound. While the military defined early Bremerton and still shapes it today, business development paved the way, specifically within the arts. The now-famous Admiral Theatre has housed some of the greatest names in music and entertainment. It sets the stage for an Art Deco-inspired downtown, complete with art galleries and Historic Roxy Theatre.
And, fun fact: music legend Quincy Jones grew up in Bremerton. The city dedicated an entire square downtown to honor his legacy as the most famous hometown artist. Hysterically, Quincy recalled his Bremerton youth on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, saying, “What happened was … we wanted to be baby gangsters and like, rule Bremerton.”
Bremerton also offers fabulous eateries like La Fermata, voted this year’s Best Romantic Dinner in Central Kitsap and Bremerton, and Silver City Brewery, bottling wonderful craft ales alongside gourmet pub food. Axe & Arrow Gastropub offers delicious options as well, and Chef Tabura was the winner of Food Network’s “The Great Food Truck Race” in 2013.
Wonderful Events and Outdoor Escapes
Silverdale and Bremerton are popular shopping and dining destinations with distinct features. Additionally, they offer a strong sense of community through many local organizations and events. Fun annual festivals include the Blackberry Festival, Armed Forces Day Parade, Wayzgoose Arts Festival, and Whaling Days.
These charming cities harbor many larger city conveniences yet they are surrounded by nature. Nestled beside the epic Olympic Mountains, Silverdale and Bremerton offer a variety of nature trails and parks to get away from it all. Here’s a starter pack of places to explore: Illahee State Park, Manchester State Park, Newberry Hill Heritage Park, Wildcat Lake County Park, and Old Mill Park. From functional to robust, Silverdale and Bremerton have blossomed into truly unique cities with offerings for all.
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- Lions Park by Leo Phillips
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- Silverdale Sunset by Leo Phillips
Why We Love Working with Military Families
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 enjoy helping newcomers find their ideal home here in Kitsap County. A number of our Realtors are either veterans themselves or have family members who are.
We greatly appreciate the sacrifices that our military families make and wanted to share a bit about why we love working with them, sharing experiences from three of our local experts: Nick Blickhan, Summer Davy, and Adam Moon.
Our Military Connections
“I am a Navy Veteran from the Surface Navy, with a couple of years stationed at SUBASE Bangor,” explains Realtor Nick Blickhan. “I understand the military language and the process that they go through. As a landlord for 25 years, I preferred to rent to active duty submariners. I would even rent to groups of single guys. We made arrangements for their deployments. Some of these single sailors also became clients down the road.”
“My husband proudly served four years in the Navy and I am a lifelong resident of Kitsap County,” says Realtor Summer Davy. “So many of my friends and family served in the armed forces. The presence of the bases has always played a factor in employment and the fabric of our community here.”
“Both of my grandpas served in the military – Marine Corps and the Navy,” says Realtor Adam Moon. “My wife’s grandfather served in the Marine Corps. My best friend’s father served in the Navy and was Georgia Blues Submarine Captain. They’re all heroes!”
We Enjoy the Interesting Challenges and Stories
“Timelines are critical when you work with military families that are buying or selling,” says Davy. “We need to work within the timelines given for a PCS, their reporting date, and whether or not the whole family is moving together or separately. I am especially proud of a recent experience helping a military family find the perfect home for their large family on a tight deadline – 6 kids, one with special needs requiring her own private living space, bedroom/bath. The house we found fit their family perfectly, was within budget and closed in 30 days. The sellers were also a military family relocating to Japan. Happy families all around!”
“I represented some first-time VA buyers about five years ago. In the next two years, while living in Washington, Mr. Buyer got orders to Hawaii and didn’t want to sell as they could possibly be moving back,” explains Moon. “So, they were referred to Windermere Property Management to get a tenant. About three months ago, Mrs. Seller called me and told me they weren’t coming back to the PNW as he just got orders to NY for school. So, we prepped it for the market strategically when the tenants’ lease was up. Work orders had to get done to make it market-ready. Thankfully, we were able to list the weekend after the tenants vacated. We received multiple offers and closed within 30 days and $30K over list price. In that time frame when my sellers bought, then rented, then sold, they made over $100K in the sale of their home, all being done while they were in Hawaii and getting ready to move to NY. Seamless.”
We’re Ready to Provide Guidance and Support
Windermere equips each agent with the local and global resources needed to ensure that every military family is in excellent hands. “The local lenders I work with specialize in VA loans and programs that benefit military families,” says Davy. “I feel very comfortable answering any questions from the military families that I assist with their relocation to Kitsap. I think about the questions I would have as a wife and as a mom and can provide answers and info on communities, potential commutes, activities, and shopping that will affect the daily lives of these families.”
“In my experience with military buyers, they have come to appreciate my honesty and communication throughout the buying and selling process,” says Adam Moon.
“As a Realtor/Windermere Agent for 27 Years, I have helped many active duty and veteran clients reach their real estate goals,” says Blickhan.
Every time we get to connect with a military family, we are grateful for the opportunity and even more appreciative of their service. It often becomes second nature for these families to adapt on the go and regularly make sacrifices. We admire their commitment, dedication, and selflessness. And, whenever our expertise is needed, we are ready to assist.
