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Home & Real Estate

A Season of Gratitude

By the first of November in Seattle, there is a bright trail of leaves separating the warmth of October from early winter. The rains have begun in earnest and raking leaves becomes a part-time job. As I began to think about this month’s column, I knew that a “Top 10 Tips for Staging a Home” wouldn’t cut it. This time of year offers a profound sense of slowing and with the Thanksgiving holiday right around the corner, it feels like a good time to reflect on the amazing clients I’ve built relationships with this year. It’s also the cooking season and though I’ve had a few years to get used to being without my daughter in the kitchen, this is my first Thanksgiving without my grown son as well. I’m bolstering my table with neighbors and friends of friends. I’m thinking about the shapes and sizes family comes in.

Despite the changing market that I wrote about last issue, I feel incredibly grateful for the clients I’ve had the privilege to help, both into and out of homes. There is the family of four who tired of the hurlyburly of Ballard and relocated to Bainbridge for less than the sales price of their Ballard townhouse. I get regular updates of their bucolic life featuring beach and water views and sometimes even horses. There is the North Capitol Hill family whose three-year-old learned to open the front door this year and promptly needed relocating to a quieter street with a yard. There is the California family who is finally making their Queen Anne dreams come true, in part because of a subtle softening of the market.

Early Fall provided a respite from the busy summer selling season and a few homes priced sharply higher than last year’s averages experienced what I described as “Buyer’s Revolt.” For a few weeks, it began to feel like the sky was falling. One client pulled their home off the market, understanding that their price was unlikely to be realized.

Like everything to do with our high-octane housing market, prices moved quickly downward and

happily, homes are selling again. Anecdotally, the Wall Street Group of offices experienced shorter “days on market” the last couple of weeks in several of our listings, and one listing received multiple offers. It’s important to mention here that prices were lowered from the Market Analysis Price agents had provided to sellers last summer. But again, as well-priced homes came on the market, buyers popped back in and made offers, seeing value in the homes.

As an agent, I’ve always got to consider the capital M, market, but as buyers and sellers you are dealing with your homes, the places you live your lives. It’s easy to feel smart when you get a higher price than you expected, and to feel blue when your price expectations aren’t met, but your home will continue to be among your best investments over time and if life is telling you, it’s time to make a move, don’t let those last listing dollars cause you to hesitate. I mentioned the three buyer/ seller families as a reminder that your exact positioning within a market can’t always be predicted by you, even if you are the ultimate planner. I definitely found that some of my clients were completely surprised by their own decisions to make moves this year.

If the season of your life suggests a change of scenery, feel blessed that you live in one of the most vibrant and thriving cities in the U.S. and that the land beneath you isn’t getting any more plentiful. And if the season of your life is keeping you rooted in the neighborhood, thankfully it’s almost always a good time to buy or sell a home in Seattle.

Most Friday mornings you can find me volunteering my time in the windows at the Simple & Just Shop. Please consider us for your charitable donations on Giving Tuesday!

(StatePoint) Looking for the “perfect gifts,” paired with enticing retail discounts and deals, can pressure holiday shoppers to spend more than they can afford. As a result, consumers may max out credit card limits or miss payments, negatively affecting credit scores. In addition, store credit cards may offer instant discounts that are tempting at the register -- but that new application could decrease your credit score.

Not having enough money for presents and the strain holiday shopping puts on their finances are big causes of anxiety for many consumers, according to a recent Experian survey. However, many of these same consumers seem to be on the right track: in the survey, respondents listed several smart financial resolutions, including 28 percent who want to improve their credit scores, while almost 50 percent said saving more was a New Year’s resolution.

But understanding how your credit score is calculated is critical. With this mind, here are some key factors:

• Payment history: Accounting for roughly a third of your credit score, paying loans on time is crucial; too many late payments can decrease your score.

• Balance: You never want your credit card balance to be higher than 30 percent of your credit limit -- on a single card and across all of them. Keep balances low to keep your score high.

“Ask Sam”

QUEEN ANNE REAL ESTATE

Question:

We have a condo rental in Seattle. Our tenants’ lease ends before the end of the year. We are considering whether or not it is the right time to sell. With the shift in the market, should we re-lease our unit for another 6 mo. – 1 year or sell?

Answer:

In order to determine the best course of action for your condo, we need to first assess how your assets are allocated. Consider all of your investments as if they were a pie. Include retirement accounts, stock portfolios, savings, real estate, bonds, etc. This method helps identify areas where you may be over-invested. Real estate assets should include your own home, vacation homes, or any other investment properties. If your real estate assets account for more than 50% of the total pie, we would advise selling the condo.

If your portfolio indicates you should sell, the best time to list is early spring. So, the ending of your tenants’ lease lines up well while still allowing sufficient time to prepare your condo for the market! After your tenants move out and prior to listing, you should complete minor repairs, replace broken or damaged items, and apply a fresh coat of paint. Once these items are complete, your unit should be ready to list during the most optimal time of year.

Alternately, if your real estate holdings account for less than 50% of your total assets, we recommend continuing to lease your unit. Projections for Seattle’s economic growth and job creation remain among the nation’s strongest. So, while value growth may be slower than the dramatic increases of the past few years, the positive long-term trajectory of the market is expected to continue.

When considering the lease term for a new prospective tenant, we suggest lease terms that end in the late spring or early summer. Based on your current tenants’ lease ending at the end of the year, an ideal new lease would have a 6 month or 18 month term. Optimally, the new lease’s duration would be through June or July of 2019 or 2020.

Prior to real estate, I spent a decade on Wall Street as an investment banker. Assessing and optimizing investment portfolios is something I did then and something I continue to do with my real estate clients. I want clients to look at real estate as one aspect of their overall investment and asset “pie.” If any one piece of that pie becomes too large, it may be a good time to rebalance your portfolio. Partnering with clients to examine how their real estate assets fit into their overall investment strategy has become an important aspect of my business. In order to paint a complete picture of a portfolio, investments should be viewed holistically. This balanced approach informs my personal investment choices as well as how I advise my clients.

Send your questions for “Ask Sam” to pacsales@nwlink.com

Sam Konswa is the Founder/Managing Broker of Queen Anne Real Estate. He specializes in the Queen Anne and Magnolia neighborhoods, using his local market expertise to give his clients a distinct advantage in these areas. 206-972-4045 • www.QueenAnneRealEstate.com

3 Easy Ways to Illuminate Your Home for the Holidays

(StatePoint) ‘Tis the season of friends, family and entertaining! If you’re planning on hosting guests -- whether for an entire week of family fun or a one-night celebration -- now’s the time to get your home in the holiday spirit.

“Preparing a home for the holidays doesn’t have to require adding extensive decorations or undergoing a total remodel to update favorite spaces,” says Jennifer Kis, director of marketing communications for Progress Lighting. “Small changes through lighting can create a festive and comfortable environment with minimal effort and investment.”

Here are three easy tips to try:

Update Entryways and Foyers. Your entryway is your opportunity to make an exceptional first impression and set the tone for the rest of the interior. Add drama to your foyer with a grouping of striking, oversized pendant lights in lieu of a traditional chandelier.

Pay Attention to Shared Spaces. Popular spaces where friends and family are likely to gather most during the holidays include great rooms, living rooms and dining areas. A large statement chandelier in a common living space creates a focal point and also ensures there is enough illumination for card games, movies and coffee and cocoa by the fireside. Illuminate Walkways to Enhance Curb Appeal. Simple outdoor lighting techniques can improve a home’s appearance and also offer functional features during the holidays and beyond. Added illumination will improve safety and enhance security, while bringing a new bold look to the front of your home. To create instant curb appeal, hang a large lantern on either side of your front door, or install a post lantern at the front of your walkway.

For more design inspiration and to view ontrend lighting collections, visit progresslighting.com.

In a few easy steps, you can light up your home for a warm and welcoming holiday season.

By Cameron Poague, Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties

In the harsh haze of the early morning routine comes a sudden and powerful surge of redemption. It flows freely upon your head and down your shoulders until your entire being is enveloped in the warm embrace of comfort and courage. “I can do this,” you say. “I can face the day with all my talent and fury, for I am taking a shower!”

Whether or not you use your internal monologue to win imaginary arguments or merely take a few moments to

tune out before the inevitability of the day’s duties unfold, the morning shower is our place of respite. It’s the wakeup before you can make it to coffee. It is the beginning of the day.

And you want to start your day on the right foot — preferably warm, clean and without water damage to your bathroom floor. One way to achieve a superior shower every day is to ensure your stall or tub is leak-proof. The drastic temperature changes and humidity that occur within your cleansing temple tend to do a number on seams, and each time you step into a bathtub-style shower,

you’re causing the tub to flex. It’s quite easy to corral your shower’s falling water, however, whether you’re stepping into a stall or tub. All it takes is a bit of re-caulking when cracks begin to appear in the seams. Being proactive takes just a few dollars, whereas waiting until something like dry rot to set in will likely cost hundreds or more. Save your cash and your shower by taking these steps.

Shower, from page 6

Sam Konswa

Magnolia Home Sales (Low to High)

8 Questions to Ask Before Going Solar at Home

(StatePoint) With a growing number of homeowners looking to save money on power bills and help the environment, rooftops across America are taking on a new look, as more homes are dotted with solar panels. But it’s important to ask the right questions before installing them on your home.

“While there are tremendous benefits to solar energy, consumers should be sure they are working with a qualified provider, getting a quality product that’s customizable and right for their home and situation,” says Doug Robinson, CEO of LGCY Power, a solar provider. “There are great resources out there such as SolarProviders.org that will walk you through the process of determining what solar is right for you.”

To help make the right decision, Robinson suggests asking your energy consultant the following questions:

• What are your credentials? Learn whether you’re working with a company with expertise in the field -- how long has it been in business and how many solar installations has the company performed to-date? You should also do your research about the company’s track record in satisfying customers.

• Do you have a national presence? Local operations don’t necessarily have the resources or partnerships with solar panel manufacturers to be successful long-term. Sticking with national companies can be a safer bet.

• What financing options are available? One size does not fit all so there should always be multiple options when it comes to financing. In some cases, you can even get solar systems for free. The key is researching options to find what’s best for you and your situation. If there aren’t financing options, that is a sign that you should walk away and find another solar provider.

• How long will it take to begin realizing savings on my energy bill? It depends on your market and the size and type of system you get. Some consumers see an immediate savings and some see more longterm savings. On average people can save about 30 percent on their energy bill. There are ways to customize a system that will accommodate the individual needs of most consumers and in some cases, you can even get a solar system installed at no cost to you.

• Are there tax incentives available? Your energy consultant can help you identify what federal and state tax incentives are available to you. Taking advantage of tax breaks can help make the upfront cost of solar installation more manageable.

• Which manufacturers do you use? Ensure the equipment manufacturer will be around long enough to honor its warranties. Find out what brand of panels, inverter and batteries you’ll receive and if there are third-party reviews or tests of them to verify their quality.

• How does maintenance work? Find out how often your system requires maintenance and if it is covered by a warranty.

• What are the next steps? What is the process from signing the agreement to installation? How long does this take?

To learn more about going solar at home, visit lgcypower.com or call 844-439-2717.

Solar energy is not only a smart move for the planet, it’s a smart move for your wallet, with the potential to save your household considerable money over the long run. But making an informed decision is crucial. Ask the right questions for the greatest benefits.

Holiday Tips for Houseguests and Hosts This Season

(StatePoint) Planning for the holiday season? Whether you’re a guest or a host, there are easy ways to ensure that everyone enjoys their time with family and friends. Check out these tips for a joyful holiday season:

A Helping Hand

Holiday hosts are often bogged down by tasks and chores. Make yourself useful. Keep areas you are using clean and offer to help around the house.

If you’re the host, don’t be shy about delegating simple tasks to your guests. Most guests will appreciate the opportunity to make their stay less stressful on you.

Comfort is Key

When extended family or friends get together for the holidays, ensure everyone has a comfortable place to sleep. A must-have for both travelers and hosts is a high-quality air mattress that’s compact and easy to inflate, and these days, some brands have elevated their offerings to luxury standards, helping to create a more comfortable night’s rest. For example, Intex offers a range of comfortable airbeds with impressive features, such as a headboard, raised bed height (up to 24 inches), built-in USB chargers, a plush dual air pillowtop system, various sizes and supports to choose from and more. Their airbeds provide enough comfort and luxury that guests may even consider extending their stay.

Worried about the time and energy of set-up? With internal electric air pumps, these high-quality, durable airbeds take just minutes to inflate and deflate, saving families both time and energy. That means more time spent enjoying each other’s company and making memories. And they’re super easy to stock up on, available online or in-store at most major big box retailers.

Snack Time

Beyond the main holiday meal, there are breakfasts, snacks and other meals to consider. Guests and hosts should work together on this one

Shower, from page 2

to ensure that there are foods and beverages on hand that meet everyone’s dietary needs and restrictions. Hosts should ask their guests in advance if there are any allergies, sensitivities or particular foods to avoid. Children can be particular about food, so knowing if there are any favorites to stock the fridge and pantry with can also be helpful. As a guest, consider packing your own snacks to take with you. You can also help your hosts by letting them know of any issues in advance: from peanut allergies to medical restrictions.

Whether you are traveling or staying put, with a bit of preparation you can make sure everyone feels comfortable, so that you can focus on what the holidays are all about -- making great memories together.

All it takes to avoid a leaking shower stall is a bit of re-caulking when cracks begin to appear in the seams.

1. Prep the shower and remove the old caulk

Just like you, your shower or tub likes to be clean. This means scrubbing away soap scum and residue from the walls and completely removing the old caulk from the corners and bases of your stall or wherever the water hits your tub. This can be done via a utility knife or with caulk remover, depending on your skill level and patience.

After you’re done removing the caulk, wipe away excess residue to ensure your surfaces are squeaky clean and free of debris.

2. Apply the new caulk

Cut a 1/8-inch hole in your tube of silicone or water-based caulk and squeeze it out along the edges. Go slowly, and work in sections of no more than three feet to prevent your lines from drying too quickly. If you’re using a caulking gun, drag it in a smooth motion so that you distribute evenly. Be sure to also wipe the tip of the tube after completing each section.

Note: Some experts will advise you to fill your tub with water before re-caulking to help expand the gaps you’ll be filling.

3. Smooth it out

Wet your finger and run it down each section to smooth out your work. This also helps fill the gaps completely. Be sure to re-wet your finger often! Wipe any excess caulk away with a cloth and continue the smoothing process until you’re satisfied. If you happen to encounter any excess caulk that has dried where you don’t want it, you can (carefully) remove it with your utility knife.

You’ll want to wait at least 12 hours before jumping into your newly sealed stall or tub and running the water.

• Credit history: Those who’ve never used credit before will likely have a low score, or no score at all, while credit accounts that have been active for a long time reflect positively on your score, as does a healthy mix of accounts, such as having a mortgage, a few credit cards and auto loans.

• Staying out of hot water: Many people believe that financial transactions like rent, utility and telecommunications payments impact credit scores, but in fact, these are not factored in by many scoring companies. However, if you don’t pay bills and they get turned over to a collection agency, this could affect your credit score. Severely delinquent accounts are often reported to the credit bureaus.

“While it’s fun to give to others during the holidays, make sure to give yourself the gift of not getting into debt,” says Rod Griffin, director of Public Education at Experian. “Stick to a shopping

budget. Only use credit cards for an amount you can pay off and pay the bill in full on time. You’ll lose your cheer quickly after the New Year if you face a mountain of debt.”

A positive credit profile and history of using credit smartly can open up financial opportunities, like getting a car loan or home mortgage. There are clear benefits to building your credit file, but if you don’t build it responsibly those gains won’t be felt. To plan for the holidays and 2019, visit experian.com/education for information about credit scores, as well as personal finance tips.

“Credit is a tool to be used wisely,” adds Griffin. “If you check your credit score regularly and make strategic decisions on when and how much credit to use in the short-term, it will benefit you when you absolutely need credit to make a large purchase or for an emergency expense.”

Top Ways Air Travel is Changing for Passengers

(StatePoint) At any given time, up to 5,000 aircraft are in American skies. Ten million passenger flights took place in 2016. The “Golden Age” of air travel may feel like it’s long gone in a time of heightened security and since the advent of mass affordable flight, but experts say that consumers can expect flying to be more comfortable and convenient in the coming years -- even when you’re riding coach.

“To survive and thrive, airlines are focused on product innovations and comfort upgrades to ensure repeat business from customers,” says Jennifer Coutts Clay, who has over 40 years of experience in the operational management and marketing of airlines, including time with British Airways and Pan Am. She is the author of “Jetliner Cabins: Evolution and Innovation,” a new eBook app featuring a historical record and futuristic look at the commercial flying experience, with over 6,000 images and interviews with airline experts.

Are you a frequent flier? Clay says these trends may be headed your way:

• Better seating: Ergonomically constructed seat-frames, climate-controlled seat-cover fabrics and lumbar-supporting contoured seat-foam inserts are just a few of the cabin upgrades being made to ensure more comfortable travel.

• Mood lighting: Passengers are given more freedom to control their immediate surroundings through lighting. Thanks to developments in LED technology, many airlines are phasing out cold-looking lighting installations to feature a rainbow range of colors customized to suit the time of day, the specific area of the aircraft or to simulate the soothing gradual process of sunrise and sunset.

• Connectivity: In-flight entertainment, streaming content options and connectivity are expanding as onboard Wi-Fi

becomes faster and cheaper. In-seat power supplies will keep mobile devices running during long flights, giving passengers opportunities to work, keep in touch with those on the ground and more.

• More accessibility: Airlines are making air travel more accessible to those with special needs. Recent advances include aisle-size wheelchairs, seat-armrests that can be raised, extra grab bars and handrails, in-flight literature in braille, special meals for an increased range of dietary restrictions, privacy curtains for use around lavatory doors and baby-changing facilities.

• Improved experience: Flights are getting longer and more crowded. In response, airlines are aiming to tackle the problems of stressed-out passengers, with more personalization, humanization and options for how time can be used onboard, including opportunities to move around the aircraft.

• Luxury amenities: In first-class cabins of the “gold-standard” airlines, the luxury-level accommodations, amenities and in-flight service standards keep getting better. Passengers can rely on conciergetype support to handle personal arrangements before, during and after flights, and there is limo service for ground transfers to and from airports. In the future, passengers might be able to expect onboard salon-style spas and even gyms if they are willing to pay a premium.

More about the air travel experience is available by downloading Clay’s app at jetlinercabins.com.

“Preparing jetliners to accommodate airline passengers is both an art and a science,” she says. “As passenger expectations evolve and grow, you can expect significant improvements in cabin comfort and hospitality standards.”

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3.25 BATHROOMS

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TOP OF QUEEN ANNE TRIPLEX

2106 6TH AVE W Offered at $1,375,000

"Sam Konswa was a discerning and thorough professional. His knowledge of Queen Anne Real Estate is unparalleled and he was attentive to all our questions and concerns Without Sam we could not have so effectively repaired and sold our property - with such amazing results We are extremely thankful for his excellent guidance " - M A in Seattle WA