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The Buyer-Agency Agreement: What You Need to Know
If you’re excited to buy a home but are concerned about signing a buyer-agency agreement, we’ve compiled some resources to help you make an informed decision. This legally binding contract is also known as a buyer-broker agreement, and it actually helps build trust. Read below to learn how.
What is a Buyer-Agency Agreement?
When you’re ready to buy a home, you’ll want to select a top-rated real estate agent. This should be someone you’ve interviewed who has local market expertise. Once you find that person, you’ll typically sign a buyer-agency agreement. This contract is between you, the prospective home purchaser, and the agent, who will represent you during the home buying process. The agreement lists the services your buyer’s agent will provide to you, outlines compensation and terms.
If this agreement is new to you, you may be wondering when this was established. In 2024, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) started requiring agents to have a signed buyer-agency agreement before showing homes to clients. This resulted from a nationwide settlement, and now there’s more accountability and clarity. While this agreement isn’t new for the Washington State market, it is new for many other states.
Know Your Options
If there’s something in the buyer-agency agreement that you want to adjust, you can negotiate the terms. By signing this agreement, both you and your real estate agent will have agreed upon expectations so you’re on the same page.
As the NAR states, “You should feel empowered to negotiate any aspect of the agreement with your real estate professional, such as the services you want to receive, the length of the agreement, and the compensation. Compensation between you and your real estate professional is negotiable and not set by law. In the written agreement, the compensation must be clearly defined (e.g., $0, X flat fee, X percent, X hourly rate)—and not open-ended or a range. Only sign an agreement that reflects what you have agreed to with your real estate professional.” Additionally, “agreements may have specific conditions under which they can be exited, so read the text of the agreement and speak with your real estate professional if you would like to change or exit your agreement.”
Benefits
By signing this agreement, you’ll have more peace of mind knowing that confidentiality, communication, and your agent’s commitment to you are all documented. Here at Windermere Silverdale, we believe strongly in putting relationships first and serving clients with integrity and professionalism. Whoever you decide to work with will hopefully feel the same. You want to begin this working relationship with clarity, trust, and protections in place for both parties.
While it may seem like yet another form to sign, the buyer-agency agreement is a safeguard. It turns vocalized trust into a written commitment, helping you move forward with confidence.
What to Know Before You Sell
Whether a big life change or an opportunity has prompted you to sell your home, it’s important to carefully prepare for this process. Utilizing current, accurate information is the key to success, as is working with trusted local professionals. We’ve compiled a list of tips and resources to better equip you for putting your property on the market.
Understanding Your Local Real Estate Market
While the home-selling process does require getting your home ready for market, you’ll also want to learn about real estate in your area. As a starting point, check out these informative videos with Windermere’s Principal Economist, Jeff Tucker. Then, learn about your local real estate market and its trends. This can significantly impact your timeline and potential profit. And, you’ll be able to manage your expectations better by being well informed. Working with a real estate agent with local expertise is to your advantage. They can also provide a free Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to competitively and accurately price your home. You’ll avoid the costly mistake of overpricing your home. Additionally, you’ll be able to develop a clear strategy before you sell. If you aren’t in a hurry to sell, you may also want to discuss when it’s best to sell a home in your area. Your Broker will be able to provide data about market activity and seasonal demand. Generally, summer tends to be the busiest season, but that also means more competition. Here in Kitsap County, we’re seeing greater inventory so you really want to make sure your home shines. In fact, the National Association of Realtors’ (NAR) 2025 Remodeling Impact Report revealed that 46% of home buyers are less willing to compromise on the condition of the home when purchasing.
Preparing Your Home for Sale
Curious about home improvements that pay off in terms of the resale value? When your real estate agent does a CMA with you, they will also recommend important repairs, upgrades, and potential renovations that can increase your home’s value and appeal to buyers. They’ll also know which are most popular in your local real estate market.
A few examples that recoup the majority of the cost nationally are:
- new steel front door (100%)
- closet renovation (83%)
- basement conversion to living area (71%)
- minor kitchen upgrade (60%)
Learn more in this article about the NAR’s top recommended remodeling projects. When constructing a budget for the home-selling process, it isn’t just about factoring in repairs and upgrades. You’ll also want to include home-selling costs. If you’re concerned about the costs, you may want to consider using the Windermere Ready program. We can provide up to $100,000 in assistance to properly prepare your home. Learn more by watching the video below.
Decluttering and staging are also key components as you get your home ready to list. This downsizing article has some great decluttering and organizational tips. While not required, staging can be very beneficial. In a 2023 study, 81% of buyers’ agents said that staging a home made it easier for their clients to see a property as their future home. Furthermore, staged homes tend to sell for more and in less time.
Navigating the Selling Process
While you may be eager to get started, the more you know beforehand, the better. Quickly listing your home could lead to costly mistakes and missed opportunities. Before you sell, check out Windermere’s selling guide. And, if you’re wondering about contingencies, check out our Home Sellers’ FAQs.
After a CMA, repairs, strategic upgrades, properly pricing your home, and marketing it with high-quality staging, photography, and videography – all thanks to your great Broker – your home will go live on the NWMLS (assuming you’re in our area). All of your hard work will help make a lasting impression on buyers, both online and in person. So, be sure to depersonalize your home for open houses, make any last-minute touch-ups, ensure it’s so clean it sparkles, and do a smell check.
Next come offers, inspections, and negotiations. Remember, there’s more to an offer than the price. Important factors include your moving timeline, verifying the buyer’s financing and pre-approval, and contingencies.
Check out our free flipbook below to understand more about how our highly-rated Windermere Silverdale agents are ready to help you before you sell, during the process, and long after. We’re in the business of building strong relationships, and achieving our clients’ real estate goals.
New Agent Spotlight: Jennifer C. Calvin Myers
Looking for a Broker/Realtor who is an exceptional listener and guide? Meet Jennifer C. Calvin Myers. She recently joined our Windermere Silverdale team. She’s passionate about helping people and is a skilled advisor with a background in social work. Learn more about her in our Q&A.
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
As a licensed social worker, I helped older adults and their family caregivers for over 10 years in Kitsap County. I’ve learned to approach people and situations with an open mind to understand what’s important to each person. This helps me provide personalized, practical, and flexible service to each client. My experience in contract management ties in nicely to support clients through real estate offers in a straightforward and creative way, when needed. I’m also well-equipped to roll with the range of emotions people experience during the life changes that lead them to buy or sell real estate.
What drew you to real estate?
I find inspiration in all the ways real estate can improve people’s lives. Also, I enjoy being a sounding board, educator, guide, and advisor to help people feel good about their decisions. I like that real estate adds variety for the ways I can help people and that it’s not all about sales. It’s about getting to know people and having trusting relationships first, to truly know how I can help someone with their real estate needs. When clients find the right real estate firm and agent, I think real estate can make positive connections for life.
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I serve all of Kitsap County and into neighboring counties as well. The greater Puget Sound and Olympic areas have so much to appreciate. I love it all… water, forest, and mountain views, to quiet rural areas and active city areas. It’s so exciting to have options to match the lifestyle people are looking for! I also like that I can find an agent for someone, if they are looking to purchase or sell outside of the area I serve – even in other states.
How are you involved in the community?
For the last 3 years, I’ve contracted with Kitsap County Aging and Long Term Care to provide no-cost dementia social work consultations for individuals with memory issues and/or their family caregivers. I’m able to meet with people for preventative consultation or to talk about ways to meet their current needs and plan for the future.
I participate in local events that donate proceeds to the community, such as the Silverdale Rotary Turkey Trot, which helps fight hunger. The Poulsbo Beer Run is another event I enjoy. It benefits the Blue Star Banner Program, which honors and remembers local active duty military members.
To stay current in my area, I attend Central Kitsap Community Council meetings. In the future, I plan to check out the Port of Silverdale meetings.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
Windermere has all-around integrity extending to the general community, buyers, sellers, and agents. I feel 110% supported by Windermere personally and professionally!
I appreciate that a portion of every commission is donated to the Windermere Foundation, dedicated to helping low-income and homeless families. And, I look forward to participating when the office closes for agents to volunteer on Community Service Day.
As a Windermere agent, I’m proud to offer an elevated level of service through exclusive services and optional loan programs, like the Windermere Bridge Loan and Windermere Ready.
Also, I really like that agents are supported through consistent, local training and have access to many other trainings from Windermere and other leading professional organizations.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I have two beloved, senior rescue cats, enjoy traveling, and being active outdoors. My husband and I have been fortunate to travel internationally and within the United States. I always enjoy seeing and learning about new places and trying new things. The photos below are from a wedding anniversary present for my husband, where we tried our hand at making beer with the help of Gallaghers’ Where U Brew in Edmonds. We also had fun relaxing in Cancun for a cousin’s family birthday party and exploring Sedona, AZ last year, while in the area to attend the Waste Management Phoenix Open, a PGA tour event.
If you want to learn more about Jennifer C. Calvin Myers, check out her website and her Facebook page. We know she will provide excellent service to buyers and sellers in Kitsap County and the surrounding area.
Why a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is Advantageous
If you’re thinking of selling your home, one crucial element is ensuring it’s accurately priced. That’s why many sellers have their real estate agent prepare a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). Read on to learn about the benefits of a CMA and how it’s different from an appraisal.
An Appraisal vs. a Comparative Market Analysis
Sometimes people confuse a Comparative Market Analysis with an appraisal. A licensed appraiser conducts an appraisal on behalf of the bank, whereas a CMA is conducted by a real estate agent. When a home buyer applies for a loan to purchase your property, the bank orders an appraisal. Both appraisers and agents use research-based comparison methods, but bank appraisers do not have a vested interest in the home’s sale. The appraiser determines your home’s fair market value. They want to ensure the bank is not lending more than needed.
For a CMA, an agent uses their knowledge of the local market and data from the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) on sold homes and market trends. A Comparative Market Analysis helps price the home more accurately, keeping the property competitive in the current market.
Know Where Your Property Stands in Your Local Market
A CMA compares your home to other local homes in your area that have been on the market in the past three to six months. Comparable homes share some of the same characteristics as yours, such as condition, square footage, and property size. If you have a good real estate agent, you’ll receive a thorough CMA so that you know:
- What local homes are selling for
- How long homes in your area were on the market
- The delta between their listing and sold price
- A low, median, and high selling price for your property
All of this data will be factored into the pricing of your home. The last thing you want is for your home to sit on the market because it wasn’t correctly priced due to how it compares to other homes in your area, and/or in light of your current local real estate market. To learn more about our current real estate market here in Kitsap County, Washington, check out our quarterly market videos.
Manage Expectations
While there are many great real estate stories about multiple offer situations, it’s important to start the selling process with a pragmatic, data-driven approach. You’ll be able to manage your expectations, plan effectively, and have a clear roadmap for your selling timeline. Without it, you may risk assuming your home sale will be just like your neighbor’s, or expect it to sell rapidly simply because of when you’re listing it.
Make Informed Decisions
A Comparative Market Analysis can also help you understand what you may need to do to improve your property’s potential price. And, if you realize you want to invest a bit more in your home to sell it for more, you may want to consider the Windermere Ready Program. It can provide you with a loan to cover home improvement costs before selling.
There’s so much to be aware of when selling a house, and a Comparative Market Analysis can be a great place to start. It will help you dig into the details and understand how to best position it with your agent.
If you have any questions about selling or CMAs, feel free to contact one of our local real estate agents.
Kitsap County Real Estate: What to Know Before You Buy
Thinking of buying a home in our area? It’s important to learn as much as you can about Kitsap County real estate. Our current market remains strong, with a lean toward buyers. However, delving into the numbers and learning from local real estate experts will help you make informed decisions.
It’s a Good Time to Buy
“The balance of power has swung in buyers’ favor this year, thanks to higher inventory,” says Windermere Principal Economist, Jeff Tucker. “But it’s now clear that inventory passed an inflection point [nationally]…Buyers are still favored in many markets, but they can’t count on that pendulum to keep swinging further in their favor, especially because mortgage rates have fallen…I advise everyone to strike while the iron’s hot. If rates do fall further this winter, well, you could always refinance.”
You can view Jeff Tucker’s updates and insights in full in the video below. At the time of writing this, mortgage rates are in the neighborhood of 6.4% for a 30-year fixed.
When looking at Western Washington’s data, Tucker points out that buyers “have more inventory to choose from” with “listings that have lingered on the market, and mortgage rates that have dipped”. He also says, “For people in a position to buy, this fall is shaping up to be a sweet spot.”
Kitsap County Real Estate Data & Insights
Zooming into our local market here in Kitsap County, we’re seeing a shift as well. “The Kitsap County real estate market is moving toward a more balanced state, with stabilizing prices and increasing inventory,” explains Windermere Silverdale’s Branch Manager, Nancy Mackleit. “While some high-demand areas continue to see multiple offers, the overall pace of sales has slowed compared to previous peaks. Homes that are priced competitively and move-in ready are still selling quickly. With more listings available than in recent years, buyers now have a wider range of options and greater opportunity to find the right home.”
Looking at the data, Kitsap County experienced a strong third quarter, with an average sale price of $724,000, representing a 3.4% year-over-year increase. However, it’s important to note that the average sale price for the entire county includes homes with significantly higher price points. Those homes are often in North Kitsap as opposed to many homes in Central and South Kitsap. There were still several listings at a price below that average. As our Branch Manager, Nancy Mackleit, stated, if a home is in a popular area, competitively priced, and move-in ready, don’t be surprised if there are multiple offers to compete with.
Check out a brief snapshot below of the Kitsap County real estate market data for Q3.
Tips for Homebuyers
As the market experiences a seasonal slowdown in the colder months, use that to your advantage. Shop strategically and know that you can often negotiate closing costs or rate buydowns. This is especially true for listings that have been on the market for an extended period and/or need updates. In our third quarter, Kitsap County’s CDOM (Continuous Days On Market) was 38. That’s ten days more compared to the third quarter of 2024. (This is for single-family homes.) While some homes are selling at a slower pace, it’s still best to be prepared to act quickly, especially if you’re looking at newer homes that have been well-maintained and are located near ferries, military bases, downtown hubs, and other desirable areas. Additionally, with these homes, you often won’t have as much room to negotiate and may be competing with other serious buyers. Therefore, it’s best to have your finances in order and discuss your timeline and needs with your trusted local real estate agent beforehand. Have a plan in place and seize opportunities to tour homes as soon as possible. If you’re moving to Kitsap County and need to buy from afar, check out these FAQs for Buying a House Out of State.
If you have any questions, our top-rated Brokers are here to assist.
What to Examine When Touring a Home
Before purchasing a home, touring it and examining every inch is essential. Although it may be tempting to focus on its beautiful features, it is important to keep often overlooked aspects in mind. This will really help you in the long run.
Cracked Walls and Floors
A tiny crack in the drywall here and there isn’t too alarming. However, multiple large cracks in the walls and floors could be a bad sign. Sometimes, cracks in walls and flooring could mean serious structural damage or movement, indicating the foundation is shifting. Make sure to take note of any cracks you see while touring and follow up with your home inspector.
HVAC System
The HVAC system in the house is something you’ll definitely want to ask about when first touring the home. Is the heat functioning properly? Does it have air conditioning? Related items include checking vents and fans installed in the home. Having to fix the HVAC system after you’ve purchased the home can be quite costly, especially if the system is antiquated.
Unpermitted Additions
There might be an extra bathroom or even a bedroom that wasn’t mentioned in the listing. Although extra spaces or rooms are a bonus, it’s important to ask if the new additions to the home are permitted and up to code. You don’t want to deal with unsafe spaces and/or costly, unforeseen modifications.
Roof and the Home’s Exterior
The exterior of the house is just as important as the interior. Does the roof have brown moss on it? Green moss is common here in the Pacific Northwest, but brown moss indicates it’s been there for some time. Moss can damage your shingles, encourage mold and bacteria growth, create thin spots in your roof, and can allow water to leak into your home. Look for any places where the roof has been patched up and see if there are any signs of leaks or damage. When touring the home, walk around the perimeter to really get a good look. Examine the roof and the gutters to see what condition they are in. Ask how old the roof is. It might be difficult for you to spot issues, so don’t hesitate to ask questions during the tour and when it’s inspection time. Additionally, if the seller’s had a pre-listing inspection done, be sure to carefully review it.
Potential Pests
A home may look incredible at first glance, but there’s always a chance that there are pest issues. So, be aware of any signs that may indicate a pest infestation or issue when touring the home. Look for mouse droppings, damaged wood, or weird odors. If anything seems suspicious during the tour, ask about it.
Touring the Neighborhood
Life happens outside of the home too. Look around the neighborhood to get a sense of what your life will be like if you purchase this home. Will this community fit your lifestyle and interests? Living near restaurants, a busy street, or a school may seem beneficial for different reasons, but you’ll also want to think about noise levels. If possible, tour the home at one time of day and return to the neighborhood at a different time of day to get a sense of what it will be like. Don’t be afraid to walk around and say hello to potential neighbors. Kitsap County is a friendly place. And, our local Realtors are always happy to share information about our community. Additionally, you can use apps like Nextdoor to get to know the neighborhood better.
Virtual Tours
If you’re unable to tour the home in person, virtual tours have become increasingly popular. While it’s handy to view the home on your laptop or phone, it’s challenging to really inspect everything you normally would in person. Asking questions becomes even more important since the Realtor or friend viewing the home for you must serve as your eyes and ears. Thankfully, we have you covered with these questions to ask during a virtual tour. Also, check out these FAQs from out-of-state buyers.
Buying a house is a significant investment. It’s important to go into this process with your eyes wide open. Ask every single question you have along the way. As always, it’s better to be safe than sorry. The potential issues mentioned above could mean costly repairs and unforeseen expenses. Avoid that by trusting your instincts, and using a highly knowledgeable, local Realtor who will be your trusted guide.
Why Staging Your Home Can Make a Huge Difference
When it comes to selling your home, a great first impression is everything. That’s where staging comes in. Even partially staging your home can lead to more favorable outcomes. Read on to find out why this step in the selling process can be so beneficial.
Enhanced Visual Appeal
The majority of home buyers first look at homes online when starting their search. While professional photography is part of that equation, so is the way your home is displayed. Staging optimizes your home’s appearance by decluttering, depersonalizing, and carefully arranging items and furniture to create a visually appealing space. It also creates a welcoming environment for potential homebuyers, allowing them to easily imagine living in your home. In a 2023 study, 81% of buyers’ agents stated that staging a home made it easier for their clients to see a property as their future home. Furthermore, when a home is staged, each room’s best features are strategically highlighted, making the strongest possible first impression. You want to showcase a move-in-ready appearance and create intentional spaces that evoke positive emotions.
More Favorable Outcomes
Staged homes tend to sell for more and in less time than homes that are not either partially or fully staged. According to the National Association of Realtors® 2025 Profile of Home Staging, 49% of sellers’ agents stated that home staging reduced the time homes spent on the market. Additionally, staged homes typically receive a 1% to 10% increase in the dollar value offered.
If you’re thinking of partially staging your home, that same NAR report found that the most commonly staged rooms were:
- living room (91%)
- primary bedroom (83%)
- dining room (69%)
- kitchen (68%)
Which rooms were most important to buyers to be staged? The results were:
- living room (37%)
- primary bedroom (34%)
- kitchen (23%)
Expertly Showcasing Your Home’s Value
Staging Can Save You Money in the Long Run
Staging is an upfront investment. According to Home Advisor, the normal range for staging a home in Washington is $1,481 – $2,708. What factors into this cost? It includes professional staging fees, cleaning, repairs, the size of the home, and furnishings.
While this may seem like quite the price tag, it may help you in the long run if it sells faster because you’ll reduce the carrying costs associated with owning that home (mortgage payments, utilities, etc.). Staging can also help you avoid the need for price reductions.
Additional Info
For more information about how to successfully sell your home, check out our digital flipbook below. If you have any questions, reach out to one of our highly rated real estate agents at Windermere Silverdale.
4 Important Benefits of Working with a Local Lender
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 how.
1. Personalized Experience
Before exploring neighborhoods and open houses, you need to get pre-approved for a loan. While there are many options, including your current bank and various online providers, it’s hard to beat the personalized service of a great local lender. Buying a home is most likely the biggest purchase you will ever make. Whether you’re a first-time or third-time home buyer, feeling comfortable asking questions is important. Using a local lender gives you easy access to people who can answer your questions in person or on the phone. This is extra helpful if you have a unique or complex situation that requires a more nuanced and hands-on approach.
2. Great Track Record
Typically, local lenders live in the community and are dedicated to and enthusiastic about the area they serve. Since they’re a local resident, client feedback and their reputation is important to them. Do your research and choose a lender with a proven track record. Help your offer stand out by having a lender with a well-earned reputation for being responsive and getting loans closed on time. And remember, local lenders have a vested interest in making sure each loan closes smoothly and efficiently. They know that you may be bumping into them at the grocery store or chatting about your experience with neighbors.
3. Trusted Reputation
Overall, local lenders appeal to sellers and real estate agents because they have better reputations for closing on time. This can be especially important if you’re trying to win in a multiple offer situation. Sometimes sellers or agents have had bad past experiences with national banks or online lenders. If you have a trusted local lender, this could be the one thing that tips the scales in your favor. At Windermere, we’re proud to partner with Generations Home Loans.
“Generations Home Loans works hard to offer the best local financing options to Windermere clients,” explains Cherie Kesti, Generations Home Loans Mortgage Advisor. “The reputation of Generations as a local lender is instrumental in helping the Real Estate Brokers and their clients gain a sense of confidence that their transaction is going to close on time, with the best financing options available. I’ve known sellers who picked a Generations-approved buyer amongst other offers because they had a past positive experience with Generations and knew their transaction would close as agreed.”
4. Community Knowledge
Local lenders have a deep understanding of the community and the local housing market. This makes them a valuable asset. They have personal connections with everyone involved in the home buying process including real estate agents, appraisers, and underwriters. A local lender can serve as another knowledgeable guide.
For more information on the important benefits of working with a local lender, contact an experienced Windermere Real Estate Agent.
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.
8 DIY Projects to Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal
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 it really stand out.
1. Upgrade your front door
There are three exterior upgrades with a high return on investment: painting the home, replacing the siding, and upgrading your front door. Start with the easiest one, which you can do yourself. You can upgrade your front door by replacing it or by adding a fresh coat of paint. Either way, a beautiful front door makes a statement before anyone enters your home.
2. Update the front porch
A well-thought-out front porch will also boost your curb appeal. First and foremost, if there is room, consider adding outdoor furniture. Seating invites others to enjoy your outdoor space. A few potted plants can also brighten your home’s exterior. Another way to improve your porch is to add outdoor lighting. Finally, lean into each season by decorating it for special holidays. A few colorful throw pillows that say spring, or a festive holiday wreath, will welcome guests and/or prospective buyers in a thoughtful way.
If you’d like to stretch beyond DIY projects and get a professional involved, consider hiring someone to install railings or expand your porch, if possible. For more inspiration, check out these front porch ideas.
3. Elevate front yard landscaping
As you plan your front yard landscaping, make sure to consider the grading and drainage of the property. You will want to ensure water flows away from the home. Also, make sure you choose plants conducive to living in the Pacific Northwest. Native plants, or those that occur naturally in a region, preserve biodiversity. Additionally, you’ll want to consider these landscaping rules when planning how to spruce up your front yard.
4. Plant flowers
Window box flowers can add a charming, refreshing glow to your home’s exterior. Additionally, flower beds in front of the porch or along the driveway can add to your property’s aesthetic. This article contains tips from a professional about color pairing, proper companion planting, and more. Or, check out these inspirational photos of container gardens.
5. Invest in driveway enhancements
When approaching your driveway, consider what enhancements would fit best at a distance. For decorative elements, you may want to consider purchasing a fountain to add a pleasing acoustic element to the space. Or, a new gate might really improve your driveway. You may want to hire a professional to put in a motorized gate. However, if your space is smaller, decorative fencing that is low or waist-high should be a doable weekend DIY project.
6. Create a functional pathway design
First and foremost, ensure the path is clear and free from overgrowth. A simple push of the broom or power washing can do wonders to make the driveway and paths look clean. Trim back any existing bushes and keep lawns mowed. Make any necessary repairs to keep the property functional and looking its best.
There are many DIY projects to improve the look of the main pathway to your front door. Edging can create an outline that guides visitors to your door and creates zones within the front of the property. Installing pavers or stamped concrete can build a clean line into the property. Watch the video below to see if this appeals to you.
7. Make your house number stand out
A house number DIY project is pretty simple yet effective. You’ll want to make sure the style you choose is large enough to easily see from the street, and that it’s well-lit. Check out these inspirational house number ideas. Consider using tiles, mosaics, stencils, or metal. There are many great ways to make it stand out.
8. Illuminate your home’s curb appeal with a well-lit path
Outdoor path lighting makes your home more inviting, creates a cohesive look at night, and makes it easier to navigate, especially if you have steps to your front door. That warm glow will illuminate certain features, such as a fountain, an expansive front porch, or a curving walkway adorned with flowers.
If you thoughtfully plan out how you want to improve your home’s curb appeal, you’ll soon have a refreshed exterior that wows anyone who stops by. You’ll also be able to enjoy your home even more. If you’re thinking of selling, these changes can definitely make a difference.
