Nature Lover’s Paradise on 2.5 Acres with Colvos Passage Views!
10427 Sunrise Beach Dr NW, Gig Harbor
The Essentials:
1,900 Sq. Ft.
2.5 Acre Lot
2 Bedrooms / 2.5 Bathrooms
Wraparound Deck with Mt. Rainier & Colvos Passage Views
3 Car Detached Garage with Breezeway to House
Offered for $425,000
click here to view the listing
Upon entering the light filled Lindal Cedar Home you are greeted by gleaming hardwood floors and stunning views of Mt. Rainier and Colovs Passage. Gorgeous wood wrapped beams accent the vaulted ceilings.
Step into the living room and you're enveloped by the warm mid tone woodwork, the wood burning stove will keep you cozy all year. The kitchen was tastefully remolded with stainless steel appliances and slab granite counters. The well placed skylight bathes the kitchen in natural light and there is a unique under counter window as well!
Enjoy preparing meals in the tranquil, private home, nature is all around you here. Guests can enjoy stunning views while dining.
Step out onto the sun drenched deck and take in the breathtaking views. The early bird is rewarded with a jaw dropping sunrise flanking Mt. Rainier. Can you imagine sipping a steaming hot cup of coffee and starting your day with this view?
The deck was built for entertaining and has multiple seating areas, a generous overhang to step out of any passing showers, and stunning views.
Continue around the deck and explore the lush landscaped 2.5 acre lot.
The rear side of deck also offered more seating! Escape the sun and enjoy territorial views from this vantage point.
Inside the generous master bedroom has an attached 3/4 bathroom.
The second bedroom also has vaulted ceilings with wood wrapped beams.
There is also a large laundry room with ample storage and a utility sink that is ideal for cleaning up after working in the garden.
The views continue in the walkout daylight basement family room. More handsome wood wrapped beams and windows throughout the lower level.
The bar is perfect for mixing up some cocktails before meandering out onto the lawn for a game of croquet. Or open a bottle of wine from Morso Wine Bar, which is just nestled in the harbor.
Front view of the home and East facing deck. The 3 car detached garage is connected with a breezeway. If the smell of the salt air from the deck has you itching to take a dip in the Puget Sound, you can head down to Sunrise Beach Park. This 82 acre park has 2,135 linear feet of shoreline to enjoy and is a quick 4 minute walk (or 1 minute drive) down the road! You can play in the meadow or enjoy the beach when the tide is out. The views are spectacular with Tacoma, the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, and Vashon Island before you. You can also enjoy Crescent Creek Park, which is 5 minutes away. There is a covered shelter with kitchen, Maritime Playzone, baseball field, tennis and basketball courts. There is also a BMX Park and Sand Volleyball Courts next door!
Arial view of the home and detached 3 car garage showing the lush forest surrounding the home and expansive deck.
Arial shot of Colvos Passage and Vashon Island in the distance. It's a quick 6 minute drive to historic Gig Harbor and a variety of restaurants and historic landmarks. Enjoy fine dining at Anthony's. Pick up some essentials at Finholm's Market & Grocery without having to drive to Uptown. From June 5th through September 7th ride the Trolley around the harbor for the whole day for only $1! There are endless entertainment options just minutes away in the Maritime City.
Classic Post War Bungalow on a Corner Lot!
3830 S Ainsworth Ave, Tacoma
The Essentials:
988 Sq. Ft.
6,500 Sq. Ft. Corner Lot
2 Bedrooms / 1 Bathroom
1 Car Detached Garage with room for a shop
Offered for $119,900
Click here to view the listing
Past the charming coved entry is the spacious living room. This classic post war bunglow was built in 1946. The current owner purchased it in 1949 and lovenly cared for the home while raising his family for the past 66 years.
The sunny dining area is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with guests. Under the carpeting you will find the original hardwood floors that have been covered for the majority of their life.
Beyond the living room is the crisp white kitchen. There is ample natural light and you can peer out the window and see what's happening in the backyard while preparing meals or cleaning up. To the right of the kitchen is the utility room which has extra shelving and access to the backyard.
There are two bedrooms with orignal hardwood floors, with some sprucing up this home could really shine!
The second bedroom with charming corner windows, which could be the perfect spot for a desk.
The full bathroom is light and bright with a glazed window and tile tub surround. Note the original doors throughout the home.
Head into the backyard and enjoy the lush landscaping. The many trees provide shaded areas that could be the perfect spot to place a picnic table and escape the summer sun. There is plenty of room to play back here!
Looking from the back of the home to the detached 1 car garage with room for a shop! The oversized 6,500 sq. ft. corner lot provides room to put in raised beds as well if you desire.
Garage as seen from the alley. The garage is the perfect spot to store your collector car, keep the lawn equipment, or work on projects.
Another front view of the oversized corner lot! The front trees are apple, with some TLC perhaps you could have your own mini orchard. Conveniently located off S 38th St in South Tacoma there are a plethora of dining and shopping options within minutes. Starbucks is just up the street, walk there for a fresh brewed cup of coffee or cool off with an iced tea. Lincoln Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors with picnic sites, a playground, and a significant tree collection. It's a 10 minute drive or walk there in 15! Gray Lumber is 2 blocks away for your lumber, landscaping, and home improvement needs. Head West on S 38th Street and the Tacoma Mall has 150 stores and restaurants to choose from. Head Northeast and you'll find McKinley Park a 26.71 acre park that was one of Tacoma's first parks, founded in 1901. There are paths, playground equipment, and a off-leash demonstration area for pets. For fine dining and a terrific view of downtown Tacoma grab a bite to eat Stanley & Seaforts, a local favorite.
Click here to schedule a showing
Henderson Bay Waterfront Cabin
8411 104th St NW, Gig Harbor
The Essentials:
1,524 Sq. Ft.
26,000 Sq. Ft. Lot
2 Bedrooms / 1.75 Bathrooms
View Deck
1 Car Carport
Low Bank Waterfront on Henderson Bay
Offered for $500,000
Click here to view the listing
Imagine waking up and stepping out onto your view deck every morning to be greeted by the crisp salt air and soft lapping of the water on shore. Gaze out at Henderson Bay and let your worries wash away with the changing tides.
On gloomier days you can still enjoy the outdoors under the covered portion of the deck, the ideal spot for the BBQ! Imagine hosting friends and family with these spectacular views as the backdrop.
Step inside the 1958 cabin and you can see the potential! The glass slider provides splendid views of Henderson Bay.
Vaulted ceilings and ample natural light throughout the living spaces. With TLC and imagination this could be your perfect weekend getaway from your hectic life in Seattle. Hop on the ferry to Bremerton and after a tranquil 45 minute ride you'll arrive in Bremerton, a quick 30 minute drive later and you're on the beach!
Step off the deck and onto the lush lawn with mature landscaping. There is plenty of room to play on this 1/2 acre lot! Meander your way down to the beach.
Stairs lead down to the fabulous beach. Tidelands are includes in the sale; search for geoducks at low tide and reap the rewards for a fresh caught clam dinner!
Look to the right and you'll find another lovely property that is currently for sale! 8407 104th St NW is an impressive 5,690 sq. ft. home with a 572 sq. ft. guest house.
Waterside view of 8407 104th St NW, showing the two properties bordering each other. Purchase both and imagine the possibilities … your very own waterfront estate with 200 combined feet of waterfront on Henderson Bay. Keep the cozy cabin for guests or tear it down and build another impressive home!
Looking back at 8411 104th St NW from the water. The location is ideal with recreational and shopping destinations just minutes away. Sehmel Homestead Park and McCormick Forest Park are 5 minutes up the road! Explore the forested paths and feel like you're miles away from civilization! St. Anthony Hospital is just across the freeway along with Target, Home Depot, and several other stores. You can play a round of golf at the Canterwood Golf and Country Club, they offer a variety of memberships. If you're firing up the BBQ for your guests don't forget to stop by Ray's Meat Market near the Purdy spit. If you're taking the night off as chef you can enjoy fine Italian fare at Massimo Italian Bar & Grill.
Click here to schedule a showing
Two Gig Harbor High Bank Waterfront Homes with Hales Passage Views
410 42nd Ave NW, Gig Harbor
The Essentials
4,464 Sq. Ft. Main House
4 Bedrooms / 2.5 Bathrooms
3 Car Attached Garage
1,826 Sq. Ft. Guest House
2 Car Attached Garage
2 Bedrooms / 1.75 Bathrooms
Shy Acre Lot (.88 Acres)
Trail to Beach with Bulkhead and Boathouse
Views of Hales Passage
Offered for $1,250,000
click here to view the listing
Designed by the late local architect, Alan Liddle, the main house features 4,464 sq. ft. of elegant Gig Harbor waterfront living. The current owner will miss the:
"Spectacular sunsets over the Olympic Mountains and soaring eagles to earth bound deer, squirrels and acrobatic fish."
Past the foyer the living room greets you with stunning views of Hales Passage through the atrium windows. Interior details such as the vaulted wood wrapped ceilings, and handsome propane fireplace set the tone.
Breathtaking views continue into the dining room. Let the party move outside on the entertainment size deck, including a covered portion allowing you to soak in the salt air and watch the tides ebb and flow no matter the weather.
Back inside continue into the elegant chef's kitchen where the views continue!
Crisp white cabinets, gleaming hardwood floors, solid surface counters, and high end appliances are sure to please even the most discerning eye. Just beyond the kitchen is a atrium style eating nook with access to the deck.
Upstairs you will find a true master retreat. Soft ambient lighting, a propane fireplace, and breathtaking views … imagine waking up to this every day.
The master retreat includes two dressing areas, a walk in closet, and a dedicated shoe closet.
The spa like master bathroom has a jetted tub, and separate shower for relaxing. Or, venture onto the private deck and let your worries soak away in the hot tub while watching the sun slip behind the Olympic Mountains.
There is also a spacious office on this level with more breathtaking views.
Furnished theater room with a projector is a great spot to watch your favorite sporting team, or enjoy a movie on the sometimes dreary Pacific NW days.
The daylight walkout basement has a spacious family room with a propane fireplace, three additional bedrooms, and a bathroom.
Walk out of the lover level family room and out onto the patio. Wind your way down the path to the beach and boathouse for some maritime fun!
What treasures will you find on the beach today? The length of the waterfront is bulk headed, and although poor quality, the boathouse exists.
Venture back up from the beach and you'll find the 1,826 sq. ft. guest house with a 2 car attached garage. There is plenty of room for all of your visitors here! It could also be a wonderful artistic retreat, the perfect spot for the in-laws, or rent it out for extra income! The possibilities are endless!
The living room features beautiful tongue and groove wood ceilings, and wood wrapped windows. Step out onto the deck and enjoy the lush landscaping!
Well equipped kitchen with lovely territorial views.
The rec room also opens onto the deck and is wired for 220 service as it was used as an artistic retreat and the owners previously had a kiln. It would also make an tranquil yoga studio, craft room, or home office. There is a bedroom and full bathroom with laundry on the main floor.
Upstairs the gorgeous woodwork continues and you will feel as though you are in the trees from the many unique windows. There is also a bedroom and attached 3/4 bathroom off the loft.
Although you'll feel as though you're always on vacation at this spectacular waterfront home you're only a few minutes away from all the major amenities. Uptown Gig Harbor is a quick 7 minute drive to over 30 shops, specialty stores, and restaurants. Enjoy a steaming bowl of Pho from Lele or dine at the always popular Monctezuma's. Launch your boat at the county operated launch off 10th Street NW or fly your personal plane out of the Tacoma Narrows Airport. If you're not a pilot the HUB at Gig Harbor sits on the tarmac and offers unparalleled views of a working airport and is 5 minutes away. If you need to pick up that last minute item for dinner or to fill the boat up before dropping it in the water there is no need to venture into town, you can stop by Anderson's, a general store on your way home.
Fox Island Home with View of Hales Passage
170 Bella Bella Dr, Fox Island
The Essentials:
3,024 Sq. Ft.
1.322 Acre Lot
4 Bedrooms / 3.5 Bathrooms
3 Car Tandem Attached Garage
Covered Patio
View of Hales Passage
Offered for $649,500
click here to view the listing
Let your worries slip away as you cross the Fox Island bridge from Gig Harbor and are welcomed to beautiful Fox Island. Wind your way to the stunning view home, which is a quick 3 minute drive from the bridge.
Enter into the light and bright foyer of the "Tiburon II" floor plan. Build in 1999 by Rush Construction which features the master suite on the main, and the convenience of a rambler, with the square footage of a 'partial' second story. Gleaming hardwood floors and fresh white millwork welcome you.
The chef's kitchen is sure to please with stainless steel appliances that stay with the home including a propane range / oven. The half bathroom is perfect for guests. Two well placed skylights bathe the room in natural light. Enjoy a casual meal in the breakfast nook while watching traffic flow over the Fox Island bridge. Watch the water constantly change with the movement of the tides interact with the bridge to create inspiration and serenity. Step out into the covered patio, which is the perfect spot for your BBQ, and hear the seals play in Hales Passage.
Continue into the comfortable living room with a propane fireplace to keep you cozy with the flip of a switch!
Gaze out the large picture window and take in the serene views or watch the little ones play in the landscaped backyard.
The handsome formal dining room easily accommodates your guests as well as a sideboard. Feel as though you are in the trees when peering out at the territorial views.
The study is just off the foyer. French doors provide privacy without sacrificing natural light. Perfect spot for a home office, you can easily keep an eye on who is coming and going from the home.
Let your tension melt away in the impressive master suite. Soak in the views from the moment you wake up, open the windows and breath in the always refreshing salt air.
The elegant master bathroom is finished with gorgeous cherry cabinets, tile countertops, a large soaking tub, and a private commode.
Who needs to visit the spa when you have this at home?
There is ample storage space in the walk in closet.
Upstairs there is a large bedroom that is currently being used as a bonus room with an impressive built in entertainment center. This could be the perfect spot for your pool table, a second master suite, playroom, or somewhere for the in-laws to stay … imagine the possibilities!
The convenient 3/4 bathroom on the second level, ideal if you use the upper bedroom as a second master suite.
Next to the stairwell is a sunny nook the current owners have placed their elliptical. If a mini home gym isn't your preference you could place a comfortable chair and table and use it as a cozy reading nook.
Back downstairs you will find a large well equipped laundry room with a built in pantry. Plenty of storage, a built in bench, and utility sink that makes for cleaning up after working in the garden easy! The door leads to the 3 car tandem garage.
Step outside and take in the stunning surroundings. Nestled on a 1.32 acre lot there is plenty of room to roam!
Looking back at the covered patio with timeless cedar shake accents, tongue and groove ceiling and soffits. No detail was spared in this home. Fire up your outdoor heater and watch nature's creatures pass right through your backyard! Eagles, hawks, osprey, deer and darling fawns are all common sitings here!
Meander through the landscaped lot making your way towards the edge of the property, closer and closer to the water.
The fire pit has a spectacular view and is the perfect spot to roast hot dogs and s'mores! Feel like you're at summer camp while never leaving your backyard!
Looking back at the impressive property from the fire pit. You don't have to worry about losing your stunning view as their is a recorded tree view easement!
Fox Island is a vibrant and unique community. Local favorites include Zog's, a beer and wine garden where you can enjoy live music! Or stop in the Fox Island Grocery & Deli for some take out and to rent a movie.
Check out the Fox Island Sand Spit for a great spot to picnic, take a beach walk, or go swimming. It sits on the Western tip of Fox Island at 55 Bella Bella Dr. It's a quick 5 minute walk down the road! Or pile in the car for a short .3 mile drive with all your gear & 4 legged companions.
If you're interested in learning more about Fox Island's history you can visit the historical society Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 1 pm – 4 pm. Admission is $1!
If boating is your passion you're in luck Fox Island has a Yacht Club that sits on 17 beautiful acres fronting Cedrona Bay. Amenities include a 4,400 sq. ft. clubhouse, 150 ft of floating dock, sport court, outdoor play area & dance floor.
Click here to schedule a showing
Stunning Mid Century Modern Home With Puget Sound View and Inground Pool
7611 Terrace Dr, Tacoma
The Essentials:
2,430 Sq. Ft.
18,900 Sq. Ft. Lot
4 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms
Heated In-ground Pool
Built in 1962 by Robert Price
Puget Sound View
Offered for $535,000
click here to view the listing
Imagine the stunning presence of this mid century modern home as it was completed in 1962 while the World Fair came to Seattle. Designed by Robert Price, a Tacoma native, it is an island of tranquility rarely found in the city.
Enter into the light filled foyer. Up stairs you will find fabulous living spaces with breathtaking views of the Tacoma Narrows waterway, vine maple and the evergreen forest beyond.
"The sense of being out in the great northwest, surrounded by trees, Puget Sound, mountains and nature, while sitting in the warmth and comfort of a great house … there is nothing better than spending time in a spectacular example of northwest modernism." – R. Johnston
Gaze out to the Tacoma Narrows waterway and watch the weather roll in. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets from the large Western exposure deck. Feel as though you are in the trees from this secluded perch.
Continue into the dining room with a period built in buffet still intact. Open the sliding doors and let the outdoors in.
The large kitchen is bathed in natural light and offers more stunning views. If you're taking a night off as chef you can easily drop down to Steamers for some of their famous fish & chips, Boathouse 19 to take in a great view of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, or head over to Narrows Brewing Company to enjoy one of their craft brews!
The spacious master suite is open to the foyer, but could easily be enclosed to have a seperate den / office where the beam is shown, and a fully enclosed master bedroom. The possibilities are endless in this spectacular home.
The lower level has 3 additional bedrooms and a full bathroom, perfect for your guests to cleanup after taking a dip in the heated in-ground pool. Take your vacation at home!
The lower level family room also has a wood burning fireplace to keep you cozy. Enjoy a crackling fire during the sometimes dreary winter days. No matter the weather this home is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy nature.
Attached carport to keep the collectable out of the rain; neatly tuck waste bins and yard equipment away in the closets.
Ready to claim this unique property steeped in Tacoma's history as yours?
Click here to schedule a showing
Secluded English Cottage Just off Lake Steilacoom
10223 Green Lane SW, Lakewood
The Essentials:
1,558 finished Sq. Ft.
784 Sq. Ft. Unfinished Basement
11,085 Sq. Ft. Lot
3 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms
1 Car Attached Garage + 2 Car Attached Carport
Partial Steilacoom Lake View
Offered for $299,900
click here to view the listing
Enter into the light and bright living room of this darling, well cared for English cottage. Proudly sitting on a secluded cul de sac steps from Steilacoom Lake this 3 bedroom / 2 bathroom home is bathed in natural light and charm.
Continue into the dining room complete with period details such as the gleaming hardwood floors and built ins. Your guests can enjoy gazing out at the landscaped backyard while you prepare meals.
Light and bright kitchen with sunny tile countertops and backsplash. Crisp white cabinets and appliances complete the look. If you prefer to let other's doing the cooking there are plenty of local options at Lakewood Town Center which is only a 1/2 mile away! Ride your bikes up for some ice cream at Cold Stone Creamery or grab dinner at Red Robin before taking in a movie at AMC Lowes Theater.
Upstairs you will find a lovely master suite overlooking Steilacoom Lake. Unique and interesting spaces with plenty of room for a sitting area this is a wonderful private retreat.
The attached full bathroom has been updated and is cleverly tucked away. There is an additional finished room across from the master suite which could be a perfect nursery, artistic retreat, study, walk in closet or…? The possibilities are endless!
Downstairs you will find two more large bedrooms that overlook the landscaped yard.
Step outside onto the charming patio and fire up the grill or smoker just in time to enjoy the fabulous PNW summers. Pick up your favorite cut from AA Meats, a local butcher shop serving the community since 1955.
Spill out onto the fully landscaped yard and enjoy a game of lawn bowling or bocce ball. There is also a well equipped play station for the small ones!
A closer look at the play station! Why leave home when you have this in your backyard?
Side view of the handsome English cottage. There is tremendous storage in the basement garage, and the carport keeps your vehicles out of the rain or could be an ideal spot to park your boat. Dropping anchor in Steilacoom Lake is a breeze with Edgewater Park only a mile away! There is a plethora of outdoor activity options within a few miles of this home. South Puget Sound Wildlife Area encompasses 90 acres and is now the Lakewood Fish Hatchery. Head to Fort Steilacoom Park to enjoy their expansive trail system, to let your little ones play on the impressive fort like playground, or to let your four legged companions enjoy the off leash dog park. You're also within minutes of three golf courses that offer entirely different golfing experiences. Fort Steilacoom Golf Course is the perfect place to begin with a 9 hole course with an option to play 18! Meadow Park Golf Course has been a fixture in South Tacoma for nearly 100 years and offers a 18 hole course as well as a family friendly 9 hole course. And of course, Chambers Bay, the site of the 2015 U.S. Open, offering a stunning 18 hole course with breathtaking views of the Puget Sound, and Olympic Mountains.
Conveniently located 15 minutes from Joint Base Lewis McCord and a quick hop over to I-5 commuting is a breeze!
Ready to make this home yours?
Click here to schedule a showing
First Quarter 2015 Pierce County Housing Report
We appear to be in for a wild ride in 2015 when it comes to the Pierce County Housing Market! So how do you navigate it if you are a seller?! What are the best strategies for a Buyer to get the home they really want? I'll discuss that and more in this article but as always let's start with the Pierce County numbers as of March 31st.
Inventory – DOWN – 15.6%
Closings – UP – 13.1%
Median Price – UP – 8%
New Pending Contracts – UP – 53.7%
These Year over Year numbers tell us the market is hot, in fact the Months of Inventory (MOI) is at 2.7 based on last month's closed sales. This is the lowest since Q3 of 2005. Anytime the month's worth of inventory dips below 3 months we have a market environment that favors sellers and encourages price appreciation. Also, year over year inventory levels have been declining steadily in Pierce County so far this year.
The primary reason for these dramatic declines comes as no surprise…Pierce County home buyers have been busy! There may not have been much snow in the NW mountains this year but our Pending home sales chart looks like a ski jump with Pending sales up 33% for Q1! Inventory is the biggest key to how our market plays out for the balance of 2015.
So inventory is down and sales volume is rocketing. "If I want to sell my house I can ask whatever I want and buyers will flock to my door…right?!?" Not so fast! The answer is…."It depends". Turns out, like so many things in the world of statistical sound bites, there are some distinct differences in the experience you can expect as a buyer or seller depending on what price range you are in. Bear with me as I set this up.
There are 2 data points when evaluating a market that are, IMHO, the most valuable predictors of what to expect as a buyer or a seller. One is the Sales Ratio; I explained the Sales Ratio in a blog last year, if you want to refresh you can link to it here . In a nutshell 55% is a balanced market, the higher the sales ratio number, the hotter the market, and the more likely things are in favor of the seller. The second number is Months of Inventory (MOI), with this indicator the lower the number, the more likely is that sellers are in control. Low MOI says at the current sales pace the market will "run out" of inventory if new properties don't come available or demand slows down.
Overall PC has a sales ratio of 64% and MOI of 2.7. Both numbers tip in favor of sellers. Combined with the trends discussed in my opening remarks you'd think it's time for prices to move higher across the board. If you are working with homes under $500,000 you'd be absolutely right..you may even be accused of understating the situation, but if the home is over $500,000 it may require a closer examination. Take a look at the following;
Millennial buyers, first time buyers, investors, and more are super heating the market under $250,000. I would argue that a 90% sales ratio is not even sustainable, prices have to increase to temper the demand and allow the inventory level of only 1.9 months supply to eventually come back in line. A buyer in this price range needs to choose a broker well networked and steeped in local knowledge. One that is plugged into technology that receives quick market alerts and is accessible; able to move quickly for you when good properties come available. In this price range the broker needs to be able to advise you on how to groom your offer for greater likelihood of acceptance without giving away important rights you need as a buyer and ensuring your transaction is financially safe.
Conversely, between $500,000 and $1,000,000 a 21% Sales Ratio and almost 8 months of inventory is not a market condition that pushs prices up. Sellers here need to carefully evaluate their pricing strategy based on sound data that their broker can provide. If the Pierce County home is in the higher end, they are likely entering a market crowded with competition and it is worth considering the Impact of Price Visibility as shown on this chart;
The other take away I see in these numbers is the fact that if you're worried about finding your new dream home after selling the one you're in now, it may not be a concern if you are moving up into a larger or more deluxe dwelling.
In this ever dynamic market, sound professional advice and guidance is key to your real estate success. One newspaper or newscast headline does not fit all, and without local expertise with real time data it is easy to mis-step in such a fast paced real estate market.