Home maintenance • Interiors • April 7, 2023

Going from a sleep place to retreat space

by Eugene "Jim" Hills

For many people, the bedroom is little more than a place to sleep.

However, just because it’s always been that way doesn’t mean that we have to settle for cluttered and boring.

One trend that’s gaining steam these days is converting your current bedroom into a luxury suite (or something comparable). If you want to live like you’re renting a room at the Ritz, then you want to follow these tips.

Compartmentalize activities

Making your bedroom more functional is going to make it more luxurious. Add a gorgeous desk for working and a TV area for entertainment, and you’ll be living it up in no time.

Make it chic

Choose a color palette that is both luxurious and classy. Silver and gold can seem tacky, so choose muted shades that compliment each other.

Also, a brilliant and commanding headboard can instantly upgrade the look of your room without any other changes.

Light it properly

Finally, make sure that you have the right light to show off your designs. If it’s too washed out or yellow, then it will look drab and run down. Switch to brilliant LEDs and see the difference.

Choose accents wisely

We already mentioned a headboard, but some elegant drapes can also make your room feel more royal. Being strategic with your furniture accessories is going to both keep you under budget and avoid doing too much with the space.

Are you ready to lux your bedroom? You’ll be impressed by the results, and the feeling of decadence will make you more confident in your surroundings.

Home maintenance • Interiors • April 7, 2023

Make an asset of that unfinished basement

by Eugene "Jim" Hills

That unfinished basement may be dimly lit and a little rough on the eyes, but that just means it has a lot of potential.

With a little love and the help of the following ideas, you can spice it up in no time, get some great use out of the space and turn it into an asset when it comes time to sell your home.

Add a pop of color

Give your basement a whole different look without a big renovation by adding some color to space. Consider painting and sealing the floors, opening up the room by painting the rafters white or a light color, or creating a bold accent wall.

Divide the space

Want to make your basement a multi-use room? Partition out the area by installing an inexpensive curtain system. This can be done either with a curtain track or a simple wire, some hooks, and curtains will suffice.

Add foam mats

Whether you’d like to use the basement as a home gym to get a quick workout in or a place for the kids to play and rough house, adding some foam mats into the mix is a great and easy solution. They come in various colors and can quickly be picked up and tucked away if need be.

Use a large rug

As an alternative to adding mats, find a large, eye-catching rug to be used as a focal point, and furnish the area around it.

Add lighting

Basements often offer very little built-in lighting and few outlets around the room. Consider stringing café lighting across space from the rafters to give a nice ambiance and glow without any difficult electrical work.

Selling Your Home • April 7, 2023

What should you repair before selling your home?

by Eugene "Jim" Hills

So, you’re thinking it’s time to sell your home.

You may treasure the stories behind all those nicks, scrapes, worn carpeting and the “mature” landscaping, but prospective buyers are thinking about making their own memories, not honoring yours.

When selling your home, it’s of the upmost importance to ensure you are showing it in the best light. Taking time to highlight its strengths fix possible weaknesses can make a big difference in how fast it sells and for how much.

Here are four recommended repairs to make before selling your home.

Repaint

Giving your home a fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to spruce it up. If you are up and can do a good job, it can be a do-it-yourself project. Make sure cover any walls with scratches and chips and consider updating any accent walls with a more neutral coat. Don’t forget the outside, too. Weathered and worn siding and trim is among the first things buyers touring your home will see.

Repair floors

If your carpet is worn or stained, consider replacing them if a thorough cleaning won’t suffice. Hardwood floors are a very desirable feature in a home, so you want to ensure they look their best by fixing scratches or dull areas. And don’t forget the tile in your kitchen or bathrooms. Re-grouting can go a long way in making dingy tile work look brand new.

Refresh landscaping

Show buyers your home is the full package by dressing up the outside as well as the in. Clean walkways and driveways, plant seasonal flowers and plants, trim hedges and trees, install outdoor décor pieces and fill in mulch and gravel.

Fix fixtures

Leaky faucet? Rusted drains? Loose drawer handle? Making these small fixes can make a big difference to potential buyers with detailed-orientated minds. Improve your kitchen. An outdated kitchen can be a real eyesore in a home. Updating cabinetry, repairing or replacing countertops, and installing new faucets and sinks may be worth the investment.

Allowance option

All of that can sound like too much trouble or perhaps you just don’t have the funds available to hire the work done. If that is the case, offering buyers allowances so they can put their own personal touch on can be an attractive option.

Buying a home • Financing • April 7, 2023

Which down payment strategy is right for you?

by Eugene "Jim" Hills

Getting ready to buy your dream home can come with two less dreamy words: down payment.

For years, the standard guidance has been “save for a 20-percent down payment before you buy a home.”

The logic behind saving 20 percent is solid, as it shows that you have the financial discipline and stability to save for a long-term goal. It also helps you get favorable rates from lenders.

However, there can actually be financial benefits to putting down a small down payment—as low as 3 percent—rather than parting with so much cash up front, even if you have the money available.

Downside

The downsides of a small down payment are pretty well known. You’ll have to pay PMI (private mortgage insurance) for years, and the lower your down payment, the more you’ll pay. You’ll also be offered a lower loan amount than borrowers who have a 20-percent down payment, which will likely eliminate some homes from your search.

Upside

The national average for home appreciation is about five percent. The appreciation is independent from your home payment, so whether you put down 20 percent or three percent, the increase in equity is the same. If you’re looking at your home as an investment, putting down a smaller amount can lead to a higher return on investment, while also leaving more of your savings free for home repairs, upgrades, or other investment opportunities.

Happy medium

Of course, your home payment options aren’t binary. Most borrowers can find some common ground between the security of a traditional 20 percent and an investment-focused, small down payment. Your trusted real estate professional can provide some answers as you explore your financing options.

Buying a home • Financing • April 7, 2023

You like the price, but does the appraiser?

by Eugene "Jim" Hills

You’ve found your dream home and now it’s time to cross all your T’s and dot all your I’s before it’s all your own. And one of the first items on the closing checklist is the home appraisal.

So, what exactly is that?

The listing price is based on a market analysis done by a real-estate professional. Then, you and the seller may have negotiated any adjustments that each side thought was appropriate. You settled on a price and everyone signed the offer.

All done? Not quite.

The home appraisal is essentially a value assessment of the home and property. It is conducted by a certified third party and is used to determine whether the home is priced appropriately. It is this appraised value that the lender depends on in committing to financing your dream.

During a home appraisal, the appraiser conducts a complete visual inspection of the interior and exterior of the home. He or she factors in a variety of things, including the home’s floor plan functionality, condition, location, school district, fixtures, lot size, and more. An upward adjustment is generally made if the home has a deck, a view, or a large yard. The appraiser will also compare the home to several similar homes that were sold within the last six months in the area.

The final report must include a street map showing the property and the ones’ compared, photographs of the interior and exterior, an explanation on how the square footage was calculated, market sales data, public land records, and more.

After it is complete, the lender uses the information found to ensure that the property is worth the amount they are investing. This is a safe-guard for the lender as the home acts as collateral for the mortgage. If the buyer defaults on the mortgage and goes into foreclosure, the lender generally sells the home to recover the money borrowed.

Northwest life • April 4, 2023

Celebrate the season at the 2023 Spring Fair in Puyallup

by Eugene "Jim" Hills

Why wait until summer to jump into some festival fun? Celebrate the end of winter by heading outdoors to the Puyallup Spring Fair.

The Puyallup Spring Fair brings two weekends full of excitement on April 13-16 and April 20-23. Here is a sneak peek at the lively events and activities taking place.

Nitro Circus: Freestyle Crew

Extreme sports take center stage on opening weekend with thrill-filled performances by Nitro Circus: Freestyle Crew. Watch top professional athletes from BMX, skateboarding, and pit biking as they pull off gravity-defying tricks on the halfpipe ramp in the Arena. Shows are at 6 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, with 2 p.m. matinees on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Admission is $15 for ages 3 and up, and family four-packs are available for $48.

Motorsport Mayhem

Everything’s bigger and better at Motorsport Mayhem as monster trucks and smashing cars careen around the Grandstand. Motorsport Mayhem runs during the second weekend of the Fair. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday. Tickets range from $26-$40.

Racing Pigs and DockDogs

It wouldn’t be the Puyallup Fair without some delightful animal acts. Once again, the iconic Racing Pigs are back to make their mad dash around the Fountain Plaza Stage in daily free shows. Meanwhile, near the Red Gate, amazing DockDogs will be competing for the title of Top Dog. These incredible four-legged athletes will race down a 40-foot runway and leap into a 27,000-gallon water pool. In another event, dogs will swim the length of the pool and back in a speed retrieval contest. Free shows take place daily, with the finals scheduled for 3:00 p.m. – 6 p.m. on Sunday, April 23.

KidZone

Located in the Pavilion, KidZone is a massive exhibit entirely geared toward youngsters. Kids can try their hand at crafts, LEGO-building, and puzzle-solving, which all make learning fun. On the first weekend, KidZone will feature the Master Gardener’s Activity Station, where kids can plant a seed to take it home and watch it grow. During the second weekend, Scout-O-Rama showcases Scouting skills with an indoor/outdoor, hands-on experience. KidZone is open daily during regular fair hours. Admission is free.

NW Artisan Market

The Pacific Northwest is a hotbed of creativity, and many of the region’s top artisans will have their works on sale at the NW Artisan Market. Shop for a one-of-a-kind gift for a friend, family member, or yourself. Enjoy daily live demonstrations of pottery-throwing, painting, and other crafts. The NW Artisan Market is staged in the Pavilion near the Gold Gate. Hours are 2 p.m. – 10 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sunday.

Live Entertainment

Of course, concerts and live entertainment are always a top draw at the Puyallup Fair. Here’s a look at the great lineup for this spring:

Journey back to the Swinging Sixties with the Jewel Tones. This all-female trio takes a trip through the classic Motown songbook, performing songs by the Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and Gladys Knight and the Pips. Shows are three times daily during the second weekend.
Your own family will be charmed by the Marsh Family Band. Mom Tracie and dad Terry are joined by 15-year-old Julian and 13-year-old Coral to perform songs in jazz, country, pop, and other favorite genres. Shows are three times daily during the first weekend.
Pulling a rabbit out of a hat is kid stuff compared to the Eric Buss Comedy Magic Show. Eric uses his wit and energy, along with an eye-popping assortment of clever gadgets, to pull off some unbelievable sleight-of-hand. Shows take place during the second weekend.

Hours and Pricing

The Puyallup Spring Fair runs over two weekends: April 13-16 and April 20-23. Hours of operation on both weekends are 2 p.m. – 10 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sunday.
Admission on Thursday and Friday is $13 for ages 13 and up and $11 for ages 6-12. On weekends, prices are $15 and $12, respectively. Purchase tickets online at discounted prices. General admission is required for all events. Onsite parking is $15, with no charge on Thursday.

The sunshine and blue skies of spring also make great conditions for buying and selling Seattle and Puyallup homes. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more.

Northwest life • March 26, 2023

It’s cherry-blossom season in Seattle

by Eugene "Jim" Hills

Cherry-blossom season in Seattle is a colorful signal that Spring has arrived. Here are some great places to go see the blossoms, but hurry to catch this brief burst of beauty. Thanks to Coldwell Banker Bain for putting together this list! Oh, and my favorite? Definitely the Quad at the University of Washington. While you’re there, walk around to the fountain and catch the view of “the mountain.”

The delicate and beautiful cherry blossom has such significance in Japanese lore that it’s considered the country’s unofficial national flower. During springtime, you can enjoy the glory of this stunning flower on this side of the Pacific. Here are the best places to view cherry blossoms around Seattle homes for sale.

Washington Park Arboretum – 2300 Arboretum Dr. E., Seattle, WA 98112
With 230 acres along the shores of Lake Washington, Washington Park Arboretum maintains a world-class collection of plants from more than 100 different countries. Many of them are gathered in thematic collections, such as the Joseph A. Witt Winter Garden. There is a Japanese Garden, but cherry blossoms are featured right on Azalea Way, a walkable path that also has the namesake flower along with dogwoods, magnolias, and other plants. Arboretum hours are dawn to dusk, and admission is free.
Seward Park – 5900 Lake Washington Blvd. S., Seattle, WA 98118
Just minutes south of the Arboretum alongside Lake Washington sits Seward Park. At the park’s entrance, a circle garden showcases several cherry trees gifted to Seattle by Japan in the early 1900s. Since then, Japan has given Seattle additional cherry trees that are planted throughout the park. Enjoy the cherry blossom during a walk on the Shore Loop, a 2.4-mile trail around the park’s perimeters with additional views of Mt. Rainier and the lake. Seward Park is open daily from 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., and admission is free.
Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival – Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St., Seattle, WA 98109
From its modest beginnings at Seward Park in 1976, the Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival expanded in size and popularity. Just two years later, the three-day festival moved to the Seattle Center in Queen Anne. Festival highlights include martial arts and flower arranging demonstrations, tea ceremonies, traditional Japanese music, kimono dress-up, and kids’ activities. The 2023 festival is scheduled for the weekend of April 14-16, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. each day. There is no charge for admission.
Kobe Terrace – 650 S. Main St., Seattle, WA 98104
Kobe Terrace, a hillside tucked away in the International District, provides a delightful oasis of greenery in the heart of the city. The Mt. Fuji cherry trees adorning the grounds were a gift from the people of Kobe, Seattle’s sister city in Japan, for whom the park is named. Another gift from Kobe is the four-ton, 200-year-old Yukimidoro stone lantern seen on the hilltop. “Yukimidoro” translates to “view of the snow,” which is what visitors see atop Mt. Rainier in the distance. Kobe Terrace is the home of the Danny Woo Community Garden, where local residents plant and tend plots of flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Park hours are 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., and admission is free.
Green Lake – 7201 E. Green Lake Dr. N., Seattle, WA 98115
Thanks to its tranquil setting and easy accessibility, people from all over Seattle flock to Green Lake. The 2.8-mile multi-use path that circles the lake is accented by the sight of cherry blossoms along the way. In fact, there are so many different species of trees around Green Lake that an online map has been created to identify them. For a different perspective, enjoy the view from the water in a kayak, canoe, or pedal boat. Green Lake is open 24/7, and there is no admission.
The Quad – University of Washington, 1410 NE Campus Pkwy., Seattle, WA 98195
No guide to cherry blossom sightings in Seattle would be complete without mention of The Quad at the University of Washington. Many students and visitors alike have been drawn to the campus by stunning photos of the iconic Quad lined with cherry trees. Originally located in the Arboretum, which is co-managed by UW, the trees were transplanted to the campus in the 1960s to make way for the construction of the floating bridge across Lake Washington. If you’re not content to just look, sign up for the UW’s Seattle Cherry Blossom Run on the weekend of March 25-26. Shops and restaurants in the surrounding U District celebrate the spring blooms with their Cherry Blossom Festival, which is held concurrent with the run. Restaurants add cherry-themed items to theirmenus, and shops offer sale specials.

Urban attractions and natural beauty combine to make the Seattle area one of the best places to live in the United States.

Northwest life • February 20, 2023

Glass studios open window to Seattle-area arts scene

by Eugene "Jim" Hills

Glass studios are springing up across the Pacific Northwest following a trend set by internationally known glass artist Dale Chihuly.

Art comes in so many wonderful forms, and the diverse, creative array of artists around Seattle thrive on creating unique art that challenges expectations. Seattle is a city that embraces glass art like few other places in the world.

From small galleries to glass art schools, museums, and art installations, there are so many places near Seattle homes for sale to enjoy amazing glass art. You can even take classes and workshops to learn how to create your own! Our brokers have more details on some of the best studios to visit around Seattle for shopping, browsing, and taking classes.

Chihuly Garden and Glass – 305 Harrison St., Seattle, WA 98109
The studio location of local legend Dale Chihuly and also one of his most ambitious artistic projects, Chihuly Garden and Glass, is a must-see for anyone who loves glass art in Seattle. Visiting here is a unique experience, which allows you to take in beautiful blooms in the garden before heading inside to check out the extensive collection of artwork. There are live glass demos featuring Q&A sessions with the artists, as well as special new exhibits like the gorgeous Winter Brilliance light and music installation.
Seattle Glassblowing Studio – 2227 5th Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
If you’d like to try your hand at creating your own glass art for your home, the Seattle Glassblowing Studio offers fun, accessible classes and workshops that are sure to help you flex your creative muscles. They offer hands-on educational experiences where you’ll learn to create your own glass art, which are available for both small groups and private lessons. Blown Glass Party experiences are ideal for larger groups, with 2.5 hours of educational and artistic fun.
Avalon Glassworks – 2914 SW Avalon Way, Seattle, WA 98126
Interested in seeing local glass artists at work? In addition to its selection of glass gift items and home décor, Avalon Glassworks offers live demos where you can watch artists create. Looking at the finished work of many glass artists, it can be hard to imagine just how they make their art look as incredible as they do. Attending a live demo is a great way to learn more about the process, build a deeper connection with the art, and spark your own creativity in the process.
Pilchuck Glass School – 240 2nd Ave. S., Ste. 100, Seattle, WA 98104
A non-profit organization dedicated to helping both aspiring and experienced glass artists hone their craft, the Pilchuck Glass School is one great example of how Seattle is creating the next generation of talented glass artists.Not a student? You can still enjoy all of the incredible work on display at the Exhibition Space and Gallery, which features works of art from many of the students and resident artists at the school. You can even purchase select pieces of glass art, ideal for gifts or for decorating your home.
Vetri Glass – 1404 First Ave., Seattle, WA 98101
Who says glass art is just for decoration? Vetri Glass is a gallery that showcases the work of some of Seattle’s most prominent glass artists, with both functional and wearable glass art in addition to purely decorative pieces. Prominent artists whose work is on display in the gallery include Nancy Callan, Preston Singletary, and Dale Chihuly, to name just a few. You can also shop online anytime and browse the collection at your leisure.
Blowing Sands Glass – 5805 14th Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98107
With classes for beginners, unique artwork created on commission, and some incredible, artistic glass light fixtures available for sale, Blowing Sands Glass truly offers something for everyone. Whether you’re shopping or signing up for a class here, it pays to plan ahead. The gallery is open for shopping by appointment only, while many classes fill up quickly, so it’s wise to reserve your spot in advance.
Museum of Glass – 1801 Dock St., Tacoma, WA 98402
The short trip south to Tacoma for a visit to the Museum of Glass is well worth it for anyone who loves glass art. In addition to the extensive exhibitions, permanent collections, and educational programs, the Museum of Glass features a very active hot shop. You can even sign up for a Hot Shop Experience, which allows you to spend time on the floor with the artists, helping them to shape and create unique pieces of glass art.

Searching for a home that makes it easy to enjoy the vibrant Seattle arts scene anytime you please? Our local team is here to help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Seattle, WA, area.

Northwest life • February 6, 2023

Take a slice of Seattle life with the pizza scene

by Eugene "Jim" Hills

It’s never a bad time to celebrate with a fresh, delicious pizza so checkout and experience all that Seattle’s amazing pizzerias have to offer.

Whether you’re looking for a gourmet slice or a quick, convenient bite, you won’t have to travel far from Seattle homes for sale to find it. Our brokers have all of the delicious details on 8 places in Seattle to visit for National Pizza Day this year.

Post Alley Pizza – 1123 Post Ave., Seattle, WA 98101
Family-owned and located a few blocks from Pike Place Market, Post Alley Pizza is a no-frills pizza spot where great taste and fresh ingredients are always the top priorities. The grains used in the crust are all locally sourced, and the toppings are all as fresh as it gets. If you want to visit this neighborhood favorite, however, plan on visiting for lunch or an early dinner, as the shop is typically open from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Serious Pie – 2001 4th Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
A Seattle favorite that’s since become a popular local chain, Serious Pie has earned an outstanding reputation for its gourmet pies. The dough is crafted by hand in a process that takes multiple days. Then each pie is cooked in a red-hot, 600-degree oven to get the perfect blend of char and crispiness. After that, it’s all topped off with a unique selection of ingredients, including fresh herbs, foraged mushrooms, and imported cheeses.
Italian Family Pizza – 1028 Madison St., Seattle, WA 98104
Planning a family outing for National Pizza Day? Italian Family Pizza has you covered, with a classic selection of New York-style pies and tons of tasty sides to go with them. If you’re feeling hungry, add a calzone, stromboli, pasta, salad, or savory side to your order. The desserts here are also delicious, including some outstanding homemade cannoli and a rich, decadent New York cheesecake.
Delancey Seattle – 1415 NW 70th St., Seattle, WA 98117
At Delancey Seattle, fresh, locally sourced ingredients are more than just marketing terms. They provide the foundation to everything that this award-winning pizzeria has to offer. Every wood-fired pie is made with Washington-grown wheat, seasonal fruits & vegetables, and locally, sustainably raised meats. The beer selection highlights local craft breweries, while the wine selection comes from around the world.
Belltown Pizza – 2422 1st Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
Whether you’re in the mood for beer and pizza during happy hour or you’re searching for the perfect late-night slice after an evening out, Belltown Pizza has you covered. The pizzas here are made in the New York style, with some Pacific Northwest soul mixed in to create a truly unique blend of styles. There’s also a great game room with plenty of fun arcade games that both kids and adults love.
Tutta Bella – 4918 Rainier Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98118
While the brand has since expanded, the flagship location of Tutta Bella is still the best place to experience this local favorite. If you’re looking for variety, this is the place to be. Tutta Bella offers dozens of different pies, both white and red, along with some of the best pasta dishes you’ll find in Seattle. There’s also a beautiful private loft space if you’re planning an event with a group.
Big Mario’s New York Style Pizza – 1009 E. Pike St., Seattle, WA 98122
You can likely guess from the name what style of pizza that Big Mario’s New York Style Pizza serves, and anyone who’s had pizza in New York can confirm that the slices here are the real deal. Big Mario’s does things a little differently – and the regulars love them for it.
Bambino’s Pizza – 401 Cedar St., Seattle, WA 98121
If you’re itching to pair your National Pizza Day slice with a craft brew from one of your favorite Seattle breweries, then the team at Bambino’s Pizza offers everything you need. The “Make Your Own Pizza” ordering option allows you to customize every detail of your pie, from sauce to cheese and toppings. Order online for a convenient pickup, or stop by the lovely dining room for a sit-down meal.

Searching for a Seattle home that makes it easy to visit all of your favorite pizza spots? Our experienced, local team is here to help you find the right match. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Seattle, WA, area.

Northwest life • January 26, 2023

Ballard: Get to know one of Seattle’s oldest neighborhoods

by Eugene "Jim" Hills

The locks in Ballard that separate Lake Washington and Puget Sound are an interesting attraction.

Living in the Pacific Northwest offers a broad spectrum of options from quiet rural areas to traditional urban neighborhoods. Find the location that fits your dream.

As one of Seattle’s oldest neighborhoods, Ballard brings a historical flavor to the Emerald City. Our brokers share some of the attractions that make Ballard such a draw for both residents and visitors.

Tractor Tavern – 5213 Ballard Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98107
Housed in a historic building that dates back to 1902, the Tractor Tavern has been an iconic part of Seattle’s notable music scene since 1994. In keeping with the venue’s unpretentious vibes, the name was inspired by a picture of a tractor that was hanging above the bar. Over the years, the Tractor Tavern has hosted an eclectic array of national, local, notable, and up-and-coming acts, including Leon Russell, Mumford and Sons, and Greta Van Fleet. There is a full bar and no kitchen, but you’re welcome to BYOF (bring your own food). Hours are 8 a.m. – 2 a.m. daily.
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks – 3015 NW 54th St., Seattle, WA 98107
While the official name of this attraction is the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, everyone refers to them as the Ballard Locks. Planned and constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the early 20th century, the locks provide passage between the saltwater of Puget Sound and the freshwater of Lake Union. In 1978, Hiram M. Chittenden Locks was added to the National Register of Historic Places. One of the highlights is the Fish Ladder Viewing Room, where visitors can watch salmon heading upstream to spawn. Plan extra time to stroll through the surrounding Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens. Hours are 7 a.m. – 9 p.m., seven days a week, and admission is free.
Sunny Hill – 3127 NW 85th St., Seattle, WA 98117
Ballard was established by Scandinavian settlers, but the neighborhood restaurants feature a full spectrum of global cuisines. Sunny Hill draws inspiration from right here in the United States with their Detroit-style square pizzas. Gourmet specialty pies, such as the Duckie, with shaved Brussels sprouts, caramelized onions, and fennel sausage, change seasonally based on the availability of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Another customer favorite is the smash burger with a side of waffle fries and umami ketchup. Sunny Hill is open 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. weekdays except for Tuesday, noon – 9 p.m. Saturday, and noon – 8 p.m. Sunday.
Gold Dogs – 5221 Ballard Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98107
“Cowboy” and “chic” may seem like mutually exclusive terms, but a visit to Gold Dogs will change your perspective. This is not the Western attire of John Wayne and Gary Cooper. Clothing and accessories for men and women include cropped sweatshirts, denim overalls, and sherpa jackets. The shop also carries funky and fashionable home decor items such as rock star mugs, graphic print blankets, and scented candles. Browse the impressive selection of vintage cowboy boots, clothing, and accessories. Hours are 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday.
The Walrus and the Carpenter – 4743 Ballard Ave. NW, 98107
With multiple local properties and a James Beard award on her shelf, Renee Erickson is the queen of Seattle restaurants. As with her other restaurants, The Walrus and the Carpenter highlight the bounty of the Pacific Northwest by adding some European flair. Typical items on the sharing-plate menu may include delicata squash salad, scallop crudo with oyster mushrooms and shrimp chips, and roasted Medjool dates with vanilla-infused olive oil and salt. The signature oyster bar features half a dozen varieties, with an optional addition of paddlefish caviar. The Walrus and the Carpenter is open daily from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. on a first-come-first-served basis.
Golden Gardens Park – 8498 Seaview Pl. NW, Seattle, WA 98117
Part of the appeal of Seattle homes for sale is more than 485 parks that make nature easily accessible in this urban paradise. Golden Gardens Park in Ballard is one of the crown jewels of the Seattle park system. Located on the shores of Puget Sound, the park offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. Amenities include boat launches, grills and picnic areas, fire pits, beach volleyball, hiking trails, and a playground. Dogs are not allowed on the beach or playground, but Golden Gardens does have a one-acre off-leash park with trees, tables, benches, and a small covered area. Park hours are 4 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. except June through August when closing time is 11 p.m.

Seattle has a hip, trendy reputation, but it’s balanced with incredible history and tradition. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for all your real estate needs.

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