Home BuyersReal Estate Market April 25, 2023

Buy a Home Now or Wait? Kitsap Stats & Our Advice

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

Know Your Local Real Estate Market

Real estate is about supply and demand, and it’s so important that you learn about your local real estate market. If you’re looking to buy a home here in Kitsap County, Washington, you can watch our “Market Update” video below, which includes stats for Kitsap County’s first quarter. One key fact to note: in this year’s first quarter, the home sale price was $599,000. That’s a slight decrease of 1.2% when comparing home sale prices in 2022’s first quarter. Watch the full video to learn more, and if you have questions, feel free to reach out to one of our local real estate agents.

Advice from a Local Real Estate Expert

If you’d love some advice from a local real estate expert, we’ve got you covered. Nancy Mackleit, Windermere Silverdale’s Branch Manager, says, “Over the years, I’ve heard from clients who’ve said they wish they would have purchased back when prices were lower. It’s like a broken record. We have almost twice the inventory as we had last year at this time.  Though we are still seeing multiple offers on some properties, it is not like last year.  Buyers have more of a selection. We are seeing more house sale contingencies, and buyers aren’t under so much pressure to compete with other buyers.  Have the interest rates changed?  Yes, the days of historically low-interest rates are over. Buyers and sellers need to adjust to the current interest rates. The rates may be higher, but the days of multiple offers on a property, escalating to prices to way above the list price, have definitely slowed down compared to last year.”

Another question buyers often ask in times like these is: what if interest rates go down? Nancy says, “Get the house now when it isn’t so competitive and refinance if this happens. There are always sellers who need to sell, and there are always buyers who need to buy. Historically, real estate picks up in spring and summer. Talk to your agent about the best strategy going into the current market. Your agent will be the best to guide you.”

Mortgage Rate Information, Predictions, and Misconceptions

Whether you’re leaning toward buying now or waiting a while, you’ll want to get pre-approved for a mortgage before going to open houses. You can shop around and get quotes from lenders, but carefully examine each lender’s proposal and terms.  Most homebuyers choose a 15-year or 30-year conventional mortgage. There are also first-time homebuyer programs, VA loans, and other programs.

As Windermere’s Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner, says, “Education is everything.” So educate yourself now before diving into the home-buying process. Check out Matthew Gardner’s latest video, where he discusses mortgage rate predictions and misconceptions.

Examine Your Financial Situation & Consider Home Buying Costs

It’s important to thoroughly examine your finances and factor in all the upfront, associated costs with buying a home. First-time home buyers often focus on the down payment, but there are also closing fees, and oftentimes repairs pop up unless the home is in immaculate condition.

If you’re thinking of buying an investment property, you’ll need to really be in the know about your local rental market. Additionally, will you have the time to manage a property or will you hire a property manager? Will that property be able to really generate passive income for you in the near future or will it need a lot of work first? Furthermore, it’s important to think about how long you plan to own the property to avoid capital gains taxes if you’re thinking you may sell it within two years.

If you’ve decided you’re ready to buy a home, check out our home buying tips to learn more.

CommunityWindermere April 18, 2023

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.

mark-plastina-military

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.

Home Sellers March 20, 2023

8 Tips When Preparing to Sell

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

1. Determine your moving timeline

Begin the home selling process by examining your personal timeline. Are the dates flexible or are you on a set schedule? Knowing the answer to these questions will help you make the right decisions regarding the repairs and home projects you should complete. Additionally, it’s important to establish clear expectations with everyone involved, including your local listing agent.

2. Consult with a listing agent when preparing to sell

A knowledgeable listing agent will guide you through the process of selling your home. They will provide you with up-to-date information including local market trends so you can make well-informed decisions. In addition to listing the home, the agent will show the property and coordinate all aspects of the real estate transaction. It’s important to take your time and find someone you work well with and trust.

3. Get a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)

A real estate agent will be able to conduct a Comparative Market Analysis or CMA. A CMA is a detailed report that compares your property to similar listings in the area. It allows the agent to examine market trends and determine an appropriate list price base on other nearby homes. It will also help you determine if any potential upgrades or remodels will be worthwhile.

4. Complete upgrades with a high return on investment (if it makes financial sense)

After consulting with a listing agent and looking at a Comparative Market Analysis, you’ll want to consider completing home upgrades with a high return on investment. Take into account your moving timeline and the risk/reward of doing certain upgrades. Your local real estate guide will be able to discuss all options with you to see if the projects are worthwhile.

5. Conduct a pre-inspection when preparing to sell

Did you know a seller can conduct a pre-inspection before listing the home? This inspection will identify any repairs or problems that may need to be addressed before selling. Also, providing a buyer with a pre-inspection can create a sense of trust. Being upfront about the condition of the home demonstrates transparency.

6. Identify and make necessary repairs

After consulting with a listing agent, and examining the CMA and pre-inspection, it is time to get to work. Ensure the home has all major repairs completed before listing and showing it. Repair all roof leaks or missing shingles, and ensure there are no plumbing or gas leaks. Check that the home’s foundation is solid and repair any electrical issues. Finally, make sure all pest control measures have been completed prior to listing. If there are any potential red flags regarding your property, this is the time to address those issues.

7. Consider the Windermere Ready Loan Program

If making repairs and preparing the property for selling seems daunting due to the upfront expenses, consider the Windermere Ready Loan program. This program offers up to $50,000 in expenses incurred. It is a six-month loan with no payments due during that time. It is then paid off in one lump sum once the property is sold. Many home sellers and their agents have reported success, saying that the program helped them sell their homes for more and in less time.

8. Stage your home when preparing to sell

According to Forbes, staged homes sell 87% faster than non-staged homes. Staging allows prospective buyers to easily imagine themselves in your home. It presents homes in an enticing way. And, the majority of buyers look at homes online first, so excellent photos of well-staged spaces can make a huge difference in the number and types of offers you receive.

Listing and selling a home is a labor-intensive process that requires a team effort. Our local Windermere experts are here to help you sell your home efficiently and successfully.

Home Sellers November 17, 2022

The Benefits of Selling in Winter

Are you having doubts about selling your home in winter? While the real estate market has begun to shift and tends to cool with the weather, there are still advantages to selling this time of year.

Supply and Demand

2021 was an unusual year because supply was extremely limited, demand was very high, and interest rates were very low. While interest rates have increased a great deal this year, the supply of houses for sale overall remains low. In Windermere’s Gardner Report for Western Washington, our Chief Economist Matthew Gardner notes that in this year’s third quarter “King and Kitsap counties were the tightest markets in Western Washington, with homes taking an average of 19 days to sell.” While we’ve seen more listings come on the market recently, there are still many serious buyers out there. Gardner says the market is shifting toward buyers but it’s still a seller’s market and the market is normalizing overall. And, when it comes to selling in winter, as Windermere Silverdale’s Branch Manager Nancy Mackleit explains, “It doesn’t matter what time of year it is, there are always sellers that need to sell and buyers that need a home.”

Home Prices Remain Solid

In Q3 of this year, the average sale price was $649K and the percent of list price received was 98%. Many people still want to move to Kitsap County, and the fact that we’re just a ferry ride away from Seattle with significantly lower home prices than the Emerald City benefits local home sellers.

Selling in Winter Means Less Competition

Typically, spring and summer are the busiest seasons for the real estate market. This means that for winter home sales there aren’t as many houses listed, creating a tighter market with fewer options for buyers. With fewer listings, your home has a greater chance to shine and wow potential buyers. Take advantage of the holiday season to highlight all your home has to offer. Decorate with fun outdoor lights and create cozy spaces inside to set your home apart and give buyers a welcoming respite from the cold. They’ll feel at home before it’s even theirs! Plus, winter is a great time to showcase things like excellent energy efficiency features such as a smart washer, a smart thermostat, or dual-pane windows.

Serious Buyers are Motivated

Typically, people aren’t out house hunting in winter just for fun. Not only is it cold, but it’s also a busy time of year with the holidays, visitors, and winter vacation plans. In winter, the people who are out looking at homes are serious buyers. Often, they need to relocate for a job or a growing family. Regardless of the reason, there is a level of urgency involved, which can benefit sellers.

Smooth Closing Process

With fewer winter home sales as compared to spring and summer, typically everyone who has a role in the transaction process has more availability. This includes appraisers, home inspectors, mortgage lenders, and escrow officers. For sellers, this is great because it’s easier to reach people, make appointments, and close the deal faster and more seamlessly.

If you’ve decided that winter is a good time to sell your home, contact one of our experienced real estate agents to help you get started.

Home Sellers June 28, 2022

Downsizing Tips to Make the Most of Your Move

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

Eliminate Clutter

Once you decide to downsize, it’s time to start decluttering. As you look around your house and contemplate your belongings, feeling overwhelmed is normal. Starting is the hardest part, that’s why it’s best to start small. Take time to identify the smallest drawer in your home and start there. Sort through each item, keep items you are using and discard the rest. Generally, it’s best to say good-bye to anything you haven’t used within the last year.

Once you do one drawer you’ll start feeling more confident to tackle another drawer tomorrow and keep building from there. Another great strategy is to set aside 30 minutes a day. Pick an area, start a timer, and go. Anything you don’t get to, don’t worry, that’s where you’ll pick up the next day. Sometimes, it’s easier to part with items if you know they are going to a worthy cause and there are several organizations that accept a variety of donations. Additionally, in the book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, author Marie Kondo shares her popular decluttering method. This is another great resource on how to determine what items to keep and let go of.

Consider Storage

If the decluttering process feels too overwhelming or you simply don’t have time to sort everything, moving some items into off-site storage is helpful. This gives you time to move into your new place and get a better understanding of what space is available. As you adjust, you can gradually incorporate more of those items into your new living arrangement, which will give you a better sense of what you need and can live without. It’s best to rent a storage unit for a limited time, such as six months, to help keep you on track and save money.

Prepare Your Home

As you begin the decluttering process, it helps to take into consideration other things you may have to do to prepare your home for sale including renovations, upgrades, or deep cleaning. While you’re decluttering, keep your eyes peeled for areas that need potential attention such as drawers that are out of alignment, broken cabinet handles, water stains, leaks, carpet bulges, etc. While each of these issues individually isn’t a deal breaker, together they begin to add up and could dissuade potential buyers. Make a list of everything you notice and consult your local real estate agent on what needs to be addressed.

Research Financing

Downsizing is quite a process, and part of that process is selling and buying a home simultaneously. If you need to finance your move, there are several loan options available to help you achieve your goals. From Bridge Loans to HELOC (Home Equity Line Of Credit), there are different options to consider based on your particular circumstances and financial situation. That’s why it’s best to do your research and have a realistic idea of what’s possible based on an accurate estimate of your current home’s value. Our local experts can provide a free market analysis to help you get started. This will help set the stage for you to get the best loan possible. That way, your move helps you reduce clutter and financial stress.

Start Fresh

Moving to a smaller house, townhouse, or condo is a great opportunity to say farewell to some of your old furniture and invest in new multifunctional furniture that optimizes use of smaller spaces. Sofa beds are great because they provide sitting space for you and sleeping space for guests. Storage benches are perfect for entryways, bedrooms and hallways depending on your needs. And, coffee tables that turn into desks are especially handy if you’ve had to part with extra office space. We suggest purchasing furniture that fits your lifestyle and maximizes space to help you make the most of your move.

Home Buyers April 28, 2022

Home Buying Tips with Insights From Agents

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

First-Time Homebuyers: Prepare in Advance

If you are a first-time homebuyer, the process can seem extra intimidating. But if you prepare in advance by finding a great agent and communicating your wants and needs, you’ll be in good hands. Also, it’s crucial to get pre-approved before starting your search.

If you’re new to our area, get to know the local neighborhoods across Kitsap County beforehand. It will really help you find the right home in the community that best suits you. Check out our free Guide to Kitsap to learn more. Be prepared to do lots of house hunting and to act quickly yet strategically. As Realtor/Broker Joe Stevick says, “making quick, effective offers is essential”. You can learn more in Joe’s video below.

 

Buying New Construction: Time is on Your Side

If you’ve got the time to wait for a build, there are many perks to a new-construction home. However, be prepared for lots of paperwork and multi-step processes. One big perk of a new build, according to Realtor, CSP, Steve Derrig, is not starting out with repairs and updates. “Having a brand new house, you do not have big-ticket home maintenance items coming up in your near future.” 

Each part of Kitsap is unique, and while it may take longer to get high-speed internet in some more rural areas, coworking spaces are abundant. Take your time finding the right place to build your dream home. And, choose your builder wisely. As Steve says, it’s crucial to look at homes they’ve built. Tour neighborhoods where they have homes that they built years ago. How do they look now? Do your research to form the right crew. Watch Steve’s video to learn more.

Competitive Offer Situations: Have A Plan

First and foremost, when you are ready to buy a home, interview potential agents and lenders to make sure they are a good fit for you. Also, they should know the local real estate market. In this competitive market, it’s vital to have someone who can help you navigate competitive offers. This includes having a plan for escalation clauses, and the possibility of waiving contingencies. “Your agent should contact the seller’s agent and find out their ideal offer,” explains Broker/Realtor Summer Davy. For more insights, watch Summer’s video below.

CommunityWindermere December 14, 2021

New Agent Spotlight: Cameron Tappe

We’re excited to feature Cameron Tappe, a new agent who recently joined Windermere Silverdale. He grew up here in the Pacific Northwest and is energetic, hardworking, and dedicated. Learn about his background, professional approach, and more in our Q&A.

What drew you to real estate?

It is so motivating to have the opportunity to help people achieve major milestones in their lives every single day. I get to meet and engage with the people in my community and this fuels my desire to grow both personally and professionally to provide the best real estate expertise possible to my clients.

What unique skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a realtor?

Real estate transactions have a lot of moving pieces and they have to be put together like a puzzle. I am committed to my clients and resourceful in my problem-solving. Listening and interpreting your clients’ needs is a part of the communication I provide to my client. I am a go-getter and I make things happen in my life. I achieve goals and I am beyond excited to be able to make things happen for my clients.

cameron-tappe-windermere-agent

What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?

Growing up, I was able to watch my parents operate their own business and see the strong work ethic it takes to succeed. I have seen how to run a business with honesty and integrity. I think you have to be personable with your clients and have a good sense of humor. There are a lot of different situations we are put in every day and we have to work well under pressure and in a certain time frame. It’s very important to stay organized.

What area do you serve and what do you love about it?

My office is in Silverdale and I primarily work in the Kitsap County area. I love being in the scenic Pacific Northwest and spending time outdoors. Having easy access to great hiking trails, fun camping spots, and peaceful national parks is an amazing privilege I couldn’t live without!

How long have you lived here and what brought you here?

The Pacific Northwest has always been home. My partner and I live in Manette and enjoy the central location which allows us to conveniently access all that Kitsap County has to offer.

cameron-tappe-with-partner

What made you decide to work with Windermere?

I love the long-standing relationship Windermere has with its community. I think it’s amazing Windermere has a partnership with the Seattle Seahawks to fight homelessness. Additionally, Windermere has a great mentorship program for new agents and a strong team of experienced agents willing to help out.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?

I am incredibly excited to start this next chapter of my life with Windermere. I would love the opportunity to assist you in your next real estate endeavor!

We are so glad Cameron has joined our Windermere Silverdale team. His communicative nature, strong work ethic, and local expertise make him a great advocate for buyers and sellers. You can learn more about him through his website and his Facebook profile.

Windermere March 18, 2021

New Agent Spotlight: Lena Musselman

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

What drew you to real estate?

I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit and a love of helping people. I was first exposed to the world of real estate when I became a property manager at 20 years old. That’s when I started learning about equity, investing, and the real estate market… and I was hooked! I am most passionate about building my brand in a way that makes real estate and real estate investing approachable for everyone.

What unique professional experiences do you possess that enhance your abilities as a realtor?

I have worked in property management, which has given me an intimate look at the needs of homeowners and investors. Also, I have almost a decade of experience in customer service, including restaurant management. I truly believe that my time in restaurants taught me more people skills, business skills, and compassion than any other job or schooling I’ve ever had. 

What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?

Integrity, ambition, and compassion. Integrity and trust are always at the forefront of everything that I do. We represent clients in large and often emotional transactions, so it’s imperative that I hold myself to the highest standard. I am in the business of helping my clients find success. 

How long have you lived here?

Almost my whole life. I was born and raised in Western Washington! I grew up in Kingston and graduated from Kingston High School (Go Bucs!). After moving around to Oregon and North Carolina, I moved back to Kitsap and settled down in Silverdale. 

Which areas do you serve?

I primarily serve beautiful Kitsap County, WA! But, I’m happy to travel to surrounding areas depending on the needs of my client. I also have a referral program for all 50 states, so I can continue helping my clients no matter where they end up. 

What made you decide to work with Windermere?

The company culture is fantastic at Windermere. I learned very early on that Windermere’s #1 priority was putting clients first and helping the community. 

How are you involved in the community?

I love our national parks! One of my favorite parts about living here is the beautiful scenery and the importance of nature in the community. I am a regular hiker and have contributed to funds that help keep our local parks clean and protected. I also love supporting local businesses, especially all of the fantastic local restaurants! 

coastal hiking view

Welcome to Windermere, Lena! If you’d like to connect with Lena, you can do so through her website and on Facebook.

Home Sellers February 9, 2021

Want to Sell Your Home? Here Are 5 Things to Consider

Selling your home is a big decision and it involves a lot of moving parts. Luckily, we have compiled a list of things to consider, whether you want to sell in three months or three years.

1. Timeline

Create a desired timeline involving the selling of your current home and the purchasing of your next home. While properties can’t always close in record time or produce the exact results you’re hoping for, it helps to at least begin with a general idea with extra time built in for adjustments to be made (when possible). Whether you’re ready for more space or to downsize, you’ll save time and manage expectations if you’re able to plan out what you think needs to be done in advance. Check out this helpful guide to selling your home.

2. Renovation and Curb Appeal 

What’s that old saying that our parents told us? Always leave the place better than you found it. Selling a house is no exception. Get ahead of the game by considering areas of your home that could use renovations, upgrades, or a deep clean. These changes can increase your home’s value, allowing you to sell your home for top dollar. Don’t forget the exterior either! The outside of your house will be a home buyer’s first impression, so you want to do whatever you can to increase its curb appeal

3. Costs

Yes, even selling your house comes with fees. Start putting together an estimate of how much it will potentially cost so that you’re prepared and know what to expect. For more information, here are 10 costs associated with selling your home.

4. Your Advocate

Selling your home can often feel overwhelming, which is why you want an attentive agent who understands your needs and will act as your advocate, local expert, and guide. This person will be working closely with you, so finding the right fit will make the process much easier. Treat this almost like an interview. Ask them about their sales history, how up to date they are on the local real estate market, and if they have a list of preferred local vendors. Another key aspect to consider: their communication style. You want to sell your home with someone who fits with your personality and is responsive, dependable, and helpful.

5. Staging

Taking the time to strategically showcase each area of your home will help buyers imagine themselves living there. And, staged homes sell 87% faster and for 17% more on average than non-staged homes. Additionally, the Windermere Ready program is a great option to consider. You’ll have the knowledge and guidance of one of our local agents, and the option of up to $50,000 in assistance for expenses incurred in preparing to list your home.

Looking for more information or want to discuss your specific needs? Contact one of our agents. They’re happy to assist and can provide a free market analysis so you can see what your home is worth.

Windermere December 7, 2020

New Agent Spotlight: Joe Stevick

We are proud to feature Joe Stevick in our new Q&A spotlight series. Joe is one of our new real estate agents and brings a range of interesting skills and experiences to the table. He’s a lifetime local of Kitsap County who is involved in the communities he serves and he has also spent time working abroad. Read on to find out more about this caring professional who truly puts people first.

What drew you to real estate?

I was drawn to real estate because I love working in service industries and had recently returned to Kitsap County after a long stint overseas. I was also curious about the increasing costs of housing and the worsening problem of homelessness in our area.

What unique professional experiences or skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a realtor?

I was in the Peace Corps for three years. This, coupled with working as an operations director for a small chocolate factory in Madagascar, has taught me a lot about people and the level of problem solving and patience that is required to get the job done. Peace Corps really teaches you to understand people and to help them in the best way possible.

What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?

I think patience and a knack for listening to people are important characteristics to have in any profession and real estate is no different.

Which areas do you serve and what do you love about those areas?

I serve all of Kitsap County and Mason County. I love these areas because there is a rural lifestyle that still has access to the city if need be. Also, we have an incredibly diverse group of people in these areas, which I love. Helping people integrate and better their new communities is a passion of mine.

How long have you lived here?

I grew up in Kitsap County, going to Esquire Hills Elementary, Ridgetop Junior High, and Olympic High School. COVID-19 brought me back to Kitsap but the people, lifestyle, and natural beauty of the PNW kept me here.

joe stevick with siblings

“My siblings and I. Where would we be without siblings?”

How are you involved in the community?

I am a member of the East Bremerton Rotary, through which I do a lot of work for the Illahee Preserve. Also, I help out at Olympic High School when I can, and still have affiliation with the Olympic High School baseball team.

What made you decide to work with Windermere?

I decided to join Windermere because I could tell right away that its affiliates were nice and welcoming. Windermere has a respected name and it is because its agents are professional and caring. This is what I wanted to be as a new agent.

We are so happy that Joe has joined us. We know his skillset, professionalism, and sincerity will be an asset to buyers and sellers across Kitsap County and Mason County. You can connect with Joe on Facebook, Instagram, or through his website