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.
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.
New Agent Spotlight: Nate Wallen
Proud of his Kitsap roots, Nate Wallen grew up here and offers his clients local expertise and a strong resource network. He’s highly involved in the community and has a background in operations management. Learn about Nate’s approach to real estate, his hobbies, and more in our Q&A below.
What drew you to real estate?
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I serve the entire peninsula and Tacoma.
How long have you lived here?
Silverdale born and raised. I left town for college and to play baseball. I graduated in 2011 from Central Washington University and hung up my cleats. Feeling homesick, I moved back to Kitsap County and started coaching baseball. This truly is an amazing community to grow up in and exactly where I wanted to start my family.
How are you involved in the community?
I have been the Assistant Varsity HS Baseball Coach at Central Kitsap for the past 5 years, and I coached at Kingston and Bremerton High School before that. When the opportunity to coach at my alma mater came, I couldn’t pass it up. My wife and I are also active community members of the West Sound Disc Golf Association, where we maintain all the local courses and help run fundraising and tournament events. We also have three children (2 boys and a girl), and they play ALL the sports.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
Nancy Mackleit and the new agent program offered here are unmatched for beginning agents. Also, my mother worked at Windermere for years and had an incredible experience.
If you want to learn more about Nate Wallen, check out his website. We know he will continue to provide excellent service to his clients.
New Agent Spotlight: Nolan Reynolds
With a background in real estate videography, home remodeling, and real estate investment, Nolan Reynolds offers home buyers and sellers a wealth of information. He’s also lived in Kitsap County for decades. Nolan recently joined Windermere Silverdale, and we’re so glad he’s on our team. Read on to find out about his background, interests, and more.
What drew you to real estate?
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a Realtor?

Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I serve Kitsap County, Mason County, and the greater Tacoma area. I love the natural beauty we have here. In particular, I think our little corner of the Pacific Northwest is even more beautiful because we have so many incredible mountain and shoreline views.
How are you involved in the community?
Through my video business over the past 10+ years, I have gotten to work with all kinds of great organizations in the community, including North Mason Regional Fire Authority, Boys & Girls Clubs of South Puget Sound, Kitsap Strong.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
I appreciated all of the in-depth training that we receive at Windermere. Multiple days each week we get to sit with our managing broker and dive into all of the real estate paperwork possibilities. Although it can sometimes be challenging, I value the opportunity to learn as much as possible so that I can be as valuable as possible to my clients.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
In addition to real estate, photography, and videography, I enjoy traveling to new places. My wife and I recently went to Turkey. My best bud got married in Istanbul, where his wife is from. We were lucky to have the chance to attend the wedding and spend a few weeks in Turkey. The night before their wedding, her family had us over for a traditional homemade Turkish dinner. It was a really special experience to have them take us all into their home and make us an incredible meal. The picture below is from that night.

If you want to learn more about Nolan Reynolds, you can check out his website, which contains more info about him and helpful local resources. Watch his interesting local videos (from the beautiful to the funny) on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
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!
New Agent Spotlight: Tasha Dwinell
Working with a real estate agent who is a lifelong local comes with many advantages. Meet Tasha Dwinell. She recently joined our Windermere Silverdale team and has lived here her whole life. Tasha is passionate about delivering excellent service to homebuyers and sellers. Learn about her interesting background in our Q&A below.
What drew you to real estate?
I have always had a passion for real estate, but more importantly, a passion for helping people. I want to connect with others and help them navigate this crazy industry while also helping them buy or sell a home.

What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
I have worked many different jobs in many different industries, but specifically, working in a restaurant for many years provided me with the most important skills. I have always said that everyone should have to work in some type of customer service position at least once in their lifetime to fully appreciate and understand how to effectively communicate with others.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
I feel that having a strong work ethic and being able to communicate with people are traits that are very important in this profession.
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I don’t feel like I have a boundary to the areas I serve. Having lived here all my life, I know a lot about this area and am proud to say that I love it here! I love our location and feel like we are secluded, yet an hour away from the big city life. The weather may be trying at times, but overall, I feel like this is truly the most beautiful area I’ve ever seen. The outdoor activities are endless, and I honestly can’t see myself living anywhere else!
I am also excited to get more involved in our community. I have a passion for helping people and would love to connect with the local food banks or homeless shelters. Also, I enjoy helping animals and will be looking into volunteering at the Kitsap Humane Society and/or rescue groups to volunteer my time.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
I was always familiar with Windermere and knew I wanted to work here. Once I had my interview, there was no question in my mind as to where I would be hanging my license. I can’t say enough great things about this office! It’s truly heartwarming to be surrounded by co-workers who are not only helpful but also create a family–like atmosphere!
We’re so glad Tasha joined our Windermere Silverdale team! If you want to learn more about Tasha Dwinell, check out her website.
New Agent Spotlight: Andrea Peterson
A veteran who loves helping others and has lived all over, Andrea Peterson is a licensed Realtor who recently joined Windermere Silverdale. We love her positive energy and the many ways in which she’s gotten involved in our area. Learn more about this great new agent.
What drew you to real estate?
Real estate is a fascinating and exciting business. The opportunity to help clients fulfill their goals and dreams is a privilege to be a part of. Through my personal experiences of working with real estate agents, I can appreciate the dedication and commitment it takes to make the buying and selling process work as seamlessly as possible. My goal is to be a source of guidance, knowledge, and support for my clients.
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
Prior to entering the Real Estate profession, I enjoyed various roles of supporting clients in times of extreme stress. Let’s face it: buying or selling a home is stressful.
I served 10 years in the Army Reserves as a field medic and German linguist as an airborne soldier. I do well under pressure, and it’s a privilege to be able to help people in stressful situations. I enjoy solving problems, and I have worked hard to become a skilled listener and an effective communicator.
I also have spent years assisting clients in the travel industry, including working at an emergency travel call center. I assisted government travelers who needed immediate and round-the-clock answers.
My time working in veterinary medicine is also something I enjoyed. In this capacity, I had the opportunity to comfort and calm clients when their furry family member experienced life threatening illnesses or injuries, as well as celebrate the joys of a new puppy or kitten.
I believe these experiences align closely with the scenarios homeowners experience. For example, in real estate, clients will need quick and reliable answers to situations that arise requiring professionalism and tact. My priority is to provide that service with the goal of celebrating the outcome of a successful transaction.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
In real estate, an energetic and dedicated person can make a sale happen. My sincere and honest approach assures clients that they have hired an agent who will fight to get them the best deal possible.
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I primarily serve Kitsap County, and parts of Pierce, Mason, and Jefferson counties. I love these areas for their wide range of landscapes and opportunities. It seems there’s a stunning view around every corner. I’m always intrigued by the nonstop beauty surrounding us and the many opportunities to get outside and breathe in the forest or saltwater air.
How long have you lived here, and what brought you here?
I came to Kitsap County two years ago after extensive research. During the pandemic, I traveled all over western Washington virtually. Then, in July 2021, I was finally able to experience Washington in person. I believe it will take a lifetime and more to experience all the trails surrounding us, and I’m excited for every opportunity to do that.
How are you involved in the community?
History, education, arts, cars, sports, and nature are my primary interests. I have found all this available here. I was recently able to join the Silverdale Historical Society on an informative walk through Old Towne Silverdale. It’s amazing to think Silverdale had such a robust egg production that, at one time, Silverdale farmers routinely shipped tens of thousands of eggs as far as New York!
Museums and the arts are another community activity I enjoy. I am a member of the LeMay Car Museum, The Museum of Flight, as well as the Olympic Peninsula Porsche Club. Our club drives have been a fun way to explore Washington. This spring I hope to drive into Canada! All of these memberships have given me the opportunity to donate to the Humane Society (anything for our furry friends). Also, I’ve been able to participate in charity events supporting various non-profits in our area, including the Wild Felid Advocacy Center.
Lastly, I have enjoyed participating in local running groups. I love this supportive community! This is truly the judgment-free zone for personal fitness. If anyone has ever had reservations about joining a running group, please give it a try! I’m part of the Evergreen Turtle Rockets in Bremerton, and the Wednesday Group Runs at Poulsbo Running.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
Windermere offers support through education, services, and, most importantly, mentorship. The quality of agents in our office is impressive. We all learn from and collaborate with one another. This, combined with the resources provided to agents and clients, leads to full-service support and successful transactions.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Having been fortunate to live in all four corners of our country, I bring perspective and understanding to each situation. I’ve walked in the shoes/boots of military service myself and been a military family member (as a child and a spouse). I’ve enjoyed the beauty of autumn in New England, the rolling hills of Tennessee, the stunning sunsets of the desert in the Southwest, and now the majesty of the Pacific Northwest. I am grateful to be here!

Thanks for joining our Windermere Silverdale team, Andrea! If you want to learn more about Andrea Peterson, check out her website.


