Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
6 Smart Appliances to Improve Your Home
Imagine waking up in the morning to clean floors, a fresh cup of coffee, and your home at the perfect temperature. Now imagine having all of that done for you, automatically. This is possible thanks to some of our favorite smart gadgets. And, with the holiday season upon us, there are many great deals on these items.
Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats are an energy-efficient way of regulating the temperature in your house while helping the environment and saving on utility bills. They have a variety of functions that can help regulate the temperature in your home. Most will allow you to adjust your thermostat anywhere away from home as long as you have Wi-Fi. So, if you want to save energy while on a vacation but still want your home warm and cozy right when you return, a smart thermostat would do this for you. Additionally, smart thermostats can be connected to Siri, Alexa or Google for voice commands and activation.
Robot Vacuum
Smart vacuums have become increasingly popular within the last few years. They are handy for keeping your home consistently clean. This helpful appliance can map out the layout of your house. You can also set it up to vacuum at a certain time of day, even when you’re at work. Robot vacuums are especially beneficial for families with pets, where fur seems to take over the home every time you finish cleaning.
Home Security
Any home can benefit from being more secure. Luckily, there are tons of options to choose from. Nowadays, many motion-sensing home security cameras can send your phone notifications. Brands like Vivint, Simplisafe, and Ring are reliable and give homeowners peace of mind. Many of these systems allow you to monitor your home when you’re away, so you always know what’s going on.
Smart Coffee Maker
Many of us can’t get our day started without our morning cup of coffee. Now you can cut out the time it takes to grind the beans, replace the filter, and wait for your coffee maker to heat up. A smart coffee maker will expedite the process by automatically grinding the beans and brewing your coffee at a pre-programmed time. Some coffee makers can even make espresso drinks! Smart coffee makers have become increasingly common, and many programmable coffee makers can be pretty affordable. Smart coffee makers can range from $80 on the low-end to around $200 on the higher end.
Soundbar
Experience your favorite movies with a high-quality soundbar. A soundbar is a fantastic speaker that packs surround sound into a small, long device that sits right under your TV. The soundbar is essentially multiple speakers built into one, positioned to create an immersive experience. Smart soundbars can even understand voice commands allowing you to play any movie without the need for a remote.
Smart Garden
Nothing beats fresh herbs or greens in a recipe. A smart garden cultivates plants automatically by monitoring their water and light at all times. The smart garden comes with LED grow lights and varies in size to fit in any kitchen regardless of space or exposure to natural sunlight. It’s completely organic and contains no pesticides, fungicides, or hormones. This self-watering appliance is an excellent addition to any home and is especially helpful during the cold winter months. Some smart gardens even come with a sensor that will alert you about the soil’s nutrients. There’s nothing like the gift of fresh tomatoes, lettuce, and basil – all grown at home, year-round.
8 Interesting Thanksgiving Side Dishes
We don’t know about you, but we’re excited for Thanksgiving and all of the festivities that occur this time of year. Now’s the time to start planning! So, here are some interesting Thanksgiving side dishes that could make your meal even more memorable and delicious. These recipes cater to a variety of taste buds so you’ll truly have something for everyone.
Easy Thanksgiving Sides
Don’t have time to make a labor-intensive side dish? No worries, we’ve got you covered with two “one-pot” recipes. Both of these dishes only require tossing the ingredients into an appliance and waiting. Not only do they need minimal oversight, but they’re also sure to impress at the dinner table.
Slow Cooker Creamed Corn with Bacon
Slow Cooker Creamed Corn with Bacon is a creamy side dish that only requires ten ingredients, eight of which you simply throw into the slow cooker. You can get it started and then go about your morning, preparing everything else and enjoying time with family and friends. Four hours later, you have a savory dish that will have guests begging for seconds.
Photo by A Taste of Home.
Air-Fryer Broccoli Parmesan
This recipe is a one-pot, air-fryer recipe. All you need to do is throw some broccoli and seasoning into an air fryer and set it aside for a couple of minutes. Air Fryer Broccoli Parmesan is a great way to add something green to the table, and it’s incredibly flavorful.
Photo by Happy Veggie Kitchen.
Seafood Lovers’ Side Dishes
We can’t forget about the seafood lovers! We’re fortunate to live in a place where fresh seafood is practically a staple here in the Pacific Northwest.
Seafood Mac and Cheese
A classic comfort food, consider serving this delicious take on mac and cheese as a side dish for Thanksgiving. You can even make it ahead and then reheat it right before it’s time to eat. This recipe comes from Food Network’s Kardea Brown, and it’s sure to be a family favorite.
Easy Crab Cakes
Absolutely wow your guests with this crab cake recipe. It’s the type of thing you’d order at a wonderful restaurant, yet it isn’t hard to make and only takes 15 minutes. You can serve it as an interesting side or as an appetizer.
Photo by Seafood Nutrition Partnership.
Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes
If you’re going to have some vegan friends or family members joining you for Thanksgiving, here are some interesting options. Additionally, there are many vegetarian dishes that can easily be made vegan thanks to vegan cheese, cashew butter, plant-based milk, and other ingredients that don’t involve animal products.
Crazy Vegan Stuffed “Turkey” Wrapped in “Bacon”
This Vegan Stuffed Turkey from vegan chef Gaz Oakley is eye-catching and fun to make. Vegetarians and vegans will enjoy this hearty, protein-filled dish.
Garlic Brussel Sprouts with Sriracha Aioli
Introduce some delectable greens to the menu with this Garlic Brussels Sprouts recipe. A creamy sriracha aioli complements the garlicky greens wonderfully. The spicy yet creamy sauce is sure to impress vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Photo by Minimalist Baker.
Kid-Friendly Thanksgiving Side Dishes
We know that some kids and teens can be picky eaters. So, we’ve included two simple yet flavorful recipes that will hopefully get them eating something that tastes good and provides some nutrients. That way, everyone’s happy and they aren’t simply eating pie and ice cream nonstop. These dishes also add a pop of color to your table, which is always a plus.
Maple Glazed Carrots and Parsnips
Maple Glazed Carrots and Parsnips have a sweet maple aroma, which can entice kids right away. This recipe isn’t challenging, and it only takes 25 minutes.
Photo by Linda Xiao via Parents.com.
Snow Peas with Butter and Lemon
A simple, yummy side dish, Snow Peas with Butter and Lemon only takes 15 minutes to make. It’s not too exotic for a child’s palette and butter and lemon zest make it extra tasty. While the toasted almonds are optional, they do provide a nice crunch so we suggest including them if you think your kids will like them.
Sweet Potato Fries
Most people are fans of mashed potatoes, which is great, but sweet potato fries can be a fun addition to your Thanksgiving meal, and kids usually like them. This Food Network recipe from Jeff Mauro is easy to make, and Jeff shares tips for how to make them extra crispy.
Third Quarter Market Review for Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge Island’s real estate market remains a strong seller’s market. In our third quarter, we continued to see homes sell above the asking price. We also saw a similar increase in average sale price when compared to this time last year. We’ve compiled key highlights to keep you in the know about our local market.
Bainbridge’s Competitive Market
Bainbridge Island continues to get more competitive for buyers in this third quarter. Many home buyers want to live near Seattle while enjoying beautiful Bainbridge, and remote work trends have increased demand. However, the volume of homes on the market decreased year-over-year, making our seller’s market that much stronger. If you’re looking to buy, our Brokers can help guide you through this competitive market. They know this market extremely well, they know the nuances of Bainbridge’s neighborhoods, and they have excellent track records.
Market Data
In the last five quarters outlined in the graph below, the long-standing growth trend in sales volume is finally slowing. Yet home prices are still growing and sold homes still outpace pending listings as a result of the increased economic demand. As the season slows and inventory wanes, prices may level – effectively balancing out the market between buyers and sellers. Or, at least they will start to shift toward a more balanced market.
With our lower supply, we continue to see even higher prices. While many buyers are willing to meet the demands of Bainbridge Island’s pricing, there just aren’t enough homes on the market right now. As you can see below, the averages of listing and sale prices are starting to converge as demand stretches the costs of housing even further in favor of sellers.
Home Purchase Sentiment Index: Insights from Matthew Gardner
In his most recent Monday with Matthew video, our Chief Economist delivered a comprehensive analysis of the most recent Home Purchase Sentiment Index figures put out by Fannie Mae. The data comes from a survey containing approximately 100 questions on housing-related topics. Fannie Mae collected 1,000 consumer responses from across the country. As Matthew Gardner says, “It’s the only national, monthly survey that’s focused primarily on housing.”
The survey shows that many Americans continue to think it is not a good time to buy because of the low supply and rapidly rising prices. However, many feel it is a good time to sell as consumers predict home prices and mortgage rates will go down. As Gardner explains, “most consumers continue to report that it’s a good time to sell a home, but a bad time to buy. They most frequently cite high home prices and a lack of supply as their primary rationale…However, the good time to buy component did tick up for the first time since March.” While this is a recipe to shift towards a buyer’s market, we’ll see how things unfold in the coming months.
Gardner sums it up nicely: “The takeaways for me so far are that consumers tempered both their recent pessimism about home buying conditions and their upward expectations of home price growth.” So again, we are seeing the potential for a shift toward a more balanced market.
Fun Fall Activities in North Kitsap
The leaves are turning and fall is here! Celebrate the season with some fun, local fall activities. Here’s a list to get you started.
Pumpkin Patches
Suyematsu Farms on Bainbridge Island
Photo by Suyematsu Farms.
A Bainbridge Island favorite for u-pick, Suyematsu Farms is back at it this year with their wonderful pumpkin patch. They grow many different types of squashes, gourds, and pumpkins. Celebrate autumn by taking festive photos and finding beautiful, delicious fall decor. Check their Instagram or their Facebook page to find out about special happenings.
Opened Saturday, September 25th
Hours: Weekdays 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM and Weekends 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fat Turnip Farms in Kingston
Photo by Bittina Erickson.
Fat Turnip Farms has a great farm stand with certified organic produce and they have a u-pick pumpkin patch. Their setup offers fun photo ops with friends or little ones, and they periodically offer events. Check their Facebook page for details.
Opened Friday, September 17th
Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Scandia Patch in Poulsbo
Photo by Scandia Patch.
This farm sits on 5 acres in Scandia and has been a local favorite since 1966. They have great produce, pumpkins, herbs, and flowers. Enjoy their beautiful fields and visit their animals. For current offerings, visit their Facebook page.
Open: Ongoing
Hours: Times vary; check their Facebook page for the latest information.
Fall Activities
Bainbridge Gardens’ 27th Annual Pumpkin Walk
Photos by Bittina Erickson.
This year is the 27th year the Bainbridge Gardens has hosted this free, delightful Halloween activity. The Bainbridge Gardens’ historic nature trail is lined with hundreds of hand-painted and carved pumpkins as well as themed vignettes. Pumpkin submissions are being requested to add to the pathway, and it’s an integral part of the experience. Live music and food trucks will be making guest appearances. Visit their website for more details.
Starts October 1st and ends October 31st
Hours: Mondays – Saturdays 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM and Sundays 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Battle Point Park’s Haunted Hayride on Bainbridge Island
The drive-thru version of this event is back again this year. For $25 per car, you can take a Halloween-themed drive to see fun displays and performances. The attractions are ongoing and cars are asked to continually drive slowly at 5mph to keep the flow of traffic moving. Additionally, you can enter the pumpkin carving contest (PDF) to have your jack-o-lantern displayed during the event. Prizes will be awarded to the top three pumpkins.
Starts Tuesday, October 19th and ends Thursday, October 21st
Hours: Drive-thru times are available from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM and you can register here (one registration needed per vehicle)
Valley Nursery’s Fall Kickoff & Glass Pumpkin Patch in Poulsbo
Enjoy two fall activities at Valley Nursery in Poulsbo. First, check out their large selection of pumpkins at their Fall Kickoff, happening the first weekend in October. It includes raffle prizes and delicious food for purchase from Smoked Asian Food Truck, Viking Ice Cream, and Cookie Creations. The following week, they’re having their annual, one-day Glass Pumpkin Patch, sponsored by Tacoma Glass Blowing Studio. Come for the festivities and for lunch! The Barbacoa Food Truck will be there as well as Cookie Creations. Stay up to date on Valley Nursery’s happenings by visiting their Instagram.
Fall Kickoff is on Saturday, Oct. 2nd and Sunday, Oct. 3rd
Glass Pumpkin Patch is on Saturday, October 9th 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
First Signs of Fall
As a little bonus, watch our snapshot video showing the first signs of fall. We loved getting glimpses of fall’s colors at Poulsbo’s Fish Park.
New Agent Spotlight: Chris Miller
Although Managing Broker Chris Miller has extensive real estate experience, he’s new to our Windermere office but not to real estate on the island. So, we wanted to highlight him in our Q&A series. We’re delighted to have him. His expertise, fascinating background, and positivity are greatly appreciated.
What drew you to real estate?
I was drawn to real estate by the opportunity it gave me to run my own business and the freedom it gave me to give back to and be active in my community. It also afforded me the time to be the springboard diving coach on Bainbridge Island for almost 30 years.
What unique professional experiences or skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a realtor?
My communication and organizational skills have been honed through successful production of events in a previous music career and concurrent athletic coaching career. When presented with a challenge, I relish researching for true and accurate information from original, reliable, and proven sources.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
I believe this profession calls for the sincere personality traits of honesty, reliability, attention to the details, and of course, good etiquette.
Which areas do you serve and what do you love about the area?
I primarily serve the Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap areas. These are the places I know and understand. I love that Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap are the “midway” between Metropolitan Seattle and the wilderness areas of the Olympic Peninsula. It makes for a more relaxed pace of life and people seem more “grounded”. I love Puget Sound and the mountains.
How long have you lived here and what brought you here?
I moved here with nothing but my backpack in 1988 after hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. I stumbled on Bainbridge Island while taking a side track visit to the Hoh Rainforest. Back then Bainbridge Island reminded me very much of my hometown in the suburbs of NY near the New Jersey border, so I settled here under the notion of, “Go west young man, and seek thy fortune”.
How are you involved in the community?
Community involvement has been a big part of my life even as a child growing up. I have been on the Bainbridge Island Grand Old 4th of July production committee since 1992, been the springboard diving coach on the island from 1991 to 2019, I am a Chamber of Commerce Board of Director for a third time, been on the Kitsap County Association of Realtors board for two terms in the past, been a past president of the retired BI Lions Club, created the first electronic recycling event on Bainbridge Island in 2007 with my Business Partner Bill Barrow, and through him, I’ve been an avid supporter of the BI Kiwanis Club and their scholarship programs over the years.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
I decided to take my business practice and license to Windermere Real Estate Bainbridge Island because it reminds me very much of the very first office I worked at here on Bainbridge Island. Deschamps Realty is long gone now but taught me the importance of being a community-minded business. Being led by a Managing Broker who is integrated into the community and encourages the office to respect and support the community is a great catalyst. The supportive culture of hardworking brokers and staff with the highest standards of professional practices and ethical principles is paramount. It is a joy to come to work every morning at the crack of dawn and be surrounded by colleagues and staff who exercise mutual support. Go Team!
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
You may recognize me from my real estate partnership with Bill Barrow over the past 20+ years. He afforded me many opportunities and I loved working with him. We worked well together. He was not only my partner but one of my best friends. Bill passed away on August 7, 2021, and I miss him very much.
We’re very fortunate to have Chris on our team. If you’d like to learn more about him, check out his very interesting bio; you’d be hard-pressed to find one that’s more unique.
Enjoy Bainbridge’s Water Sports, Marinas & Yacht Clubs
Surrounded by amazing water-based activities, Bainbridge Island has no shortage of fun ways to enjoy island life. With convenient places to moor boats of all sizes and options for chartering tours, kayak rentals, scuba diving lessons, and Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP), there is something here for everyone. Below you’ll find a great list to get you started.
Water Adventures
Photo by Leo Phillips.
Exotic Aquatics
A great shop for water enthusiasts, Exotic Aquatics offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, and scuba classes and certification. For kayak and SUP, they offer rentals, guided tours, and purchases. For scuba diving, their offerings include classes, tours, and rentals. Additionally, they are a PADI 5-Star Training Facility. Their current kayak tour options include excursions to Blake Island and a full-moon paddle.
Kayak and SUP Rentals: $23.50+ | Scuba Classes $79.95+
Sail Bainbridge
From two-hour excursions to multi-day overnight trips, Sail Bainbridge has been chartering tours for six years and offers private bookings for one to six people. These trips are a wonderful way to explore Bainbridge and beyond. Whether you’re new to the area or you have visitors to entertain, Sail Bainbridge is a fun way to experience our beautiful corner of the Pacific Northwest. Climb aboard the 44’ Pearson Countess Yacht named TRUE, and let their team do the rest.
2-hour sail for 6: $395 | All-day sail for 6: $985
Waterfront Park and City Dock
Launch your next adventure from Waterfront Park, one of the most popular spots for recreation on Bainbridge. There is a boat launch and a trailer parking lot as well as a hand-launch for smaller vessels like kayaks and paddleboards. The 900-foot city dock is directly south of the park. The dock provides first-come-first-serve moorage for boats up to 70 feet. Open year-round, they also provide electricity and pump-out services.
Launch and Trailer Parking $8/day or $80/year | Moorage $0.50/foot for 24 hours
Marinas and Yacht Clubs
Photo by Leo Phillips.
Eagle Harbor Marina
Located directly across from the Winslow Ferry Dock, the Eagle Harbor Marina is a convenient home base for your boat and you can easily explore the north or south parts of the Sound. They offer laundry and shower facilities, state-of-the-art pump out at each slip, free WiFi, and have a clubhouse you can rent for small events.
Boat accommodations 25’ to 200’ | 12-month contract | No Liveaboards
Eagle Harbor Yacht Club
Established in 1978, the EHYC describes its club as “informal, casual, and above all, fun.” They plan group cruises and excursions, social outings, and have reciprocal privileges at over 40 other clubs in the Northwest. Their home location is Winslow Wharf Marina.
Membership $75+ | Located at Winslow Wharf
The Harbour Marina
The Harbour Marina is located just below Harbour Public House, an island favorite. You can enjoy free moorage while you dine! This marina offers a variety of options from hourly or daily rates to monthly rates. Contact them if you wish to arrange a more permanent stay. They have showers, laundry, cable TV, power, and water. Also, they have a pump-out station. The Harbour Marina also connects to the waterfront trail, which stretches from the ferry to just beyond the pub.
Boat accommodations 48’ and under | Monthly and Daily Rates | Liveaboards Welcome
Port Madison Yacht Club
Port Madison Yacht Club is located on the north end of the Island in Hidden Cove. The facilities include a modest clubhouse, extensive docks, deep-water buoys, lovely natural grounds, and storage for members’ dinghies and tender boats. To join, membership must be approved by a current club member. Multiple sailing races are sponsored each year, and youth sailing camps are also offered.
Limited Availability | Membership $150+ | Residency Requirement for Moorage
Winslow Wharf Marina
Winslow Wharf Marina is described as a water-based version of a condominium called a dockominium. All slips are privately owned and owner-occupied or used for long-term moorage at monthly rates. They also offer reciprocal moorage for Eagle Harbor Yacht Club members. Short-term moorage is available when owners are gone for extended periods of time. Power is metered, water is provided, and there is a laundromat on site. Free pump-out is available at the City Dock.
Privately Owned Slips | Guest Moorage from $1.65/foot | Liveaboards Welcome
Yacht Sales
Olympic View Yachts
A yacht Broker with an office on Bainbridge Island, Olympic View Yachts offers yachts for sale and locations at three other local marinas. They also offer advice on different sized vessels and can assist with listing your boat for sale. They are a helpful resource, especially if you have questions about equipping a vessel for safe travel in the Pacific Northwest, or yachting in general.
More Island Information
For more local information, check out our Newcomer’s Guide to Bainbridge Island. In it, you’ll find videos, articles, and helpful links to learn about our neighborhoods, schools, outdoor activities, housing prices by city, local home buying resources, and much more.
Downsize With These Helpful Tips
Downsizing may sound scary, but it can help you start fresh as you begin the next chapter of your life. From retiring to simplifying your life, there are many reasons to downsize. If you’re considering a move to a smaller house or condo but feel overwhelmed by it, here are some useful tips to get you started.
Decluttering and Reorganizing
After deciding that downsizing is right for you, it is time to declutter and reorganize. Start small and start as soon as possible. You don’t necessarily need a large block of time to tackle it all at once. Instead, pick a drawer to go through today, and then maybe pick two tomorrow, and so on. Or, if you prefer time-based tasks, set a timer and spend just 30 minutes a day shredding old documents you don’t need and reorganizing items you do need.
As difficult as it is to determine whether your sentimental items go into the “yes” or “no” pile, it is vital during this process. In Marie Kondo’s book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, Kondo teaches a decluttering method that has gained popularity worldwide. You can also learn more about the KonMari Method in our article, Tips and Tricks to Get (and Stay) Organized.
Ways to Finance Downsizing
Downsizing comes with both buying and selling a home, so here are some loan options to help you achieve your goals if you need to finance your move. From Bridge Loans to a HELOC (Home Equity Line Of Credit), there are different options to consider. Doing your research and managing expectations will go a long way. This includes getting an accurate estimate of what your current home is really worth. Our local experts can provide a free market analysis.
Saying Goodbye
If downsizing will mean moving away from your community, saying goodbye will be the most challenging step. Spend as much time as possible with your local friends and family before it’s time to say goodbye. Though it can be difficult to break the news, telling loved ones as early as possible can help everyone process and prioritize as much time together as possible.
Starting Anew
If you’re moving from a large house to a smaller townhome or a cozy condo, you may want to start fresh with some space-saving, multifunctional furniture. Sofa beds like this one from Pottery Barn are an excellent option for when you have guests. A bench like this one from Crate and Barrel gives you extra storage space. Coffee tables like this one from Wayfair can turn into desks. We recommend buying furniture that fits your lifestyle and maximizes the space in your new home.
Community Spotlight: Bainbridge’s Boys & Girls Club
The Boys and Girls Club of Bainbridge Island has persevered through the pandemic and has enriched the minds of countless youth. Since 2001, our Windermere Bainbridge Island office has proudly supported the Club by donating $250 per month, or $60,000 to date. Read on to learn more about the important work that this wonderful nonprofit does right here in our community.
Boys & Girls Club During the Pandemic
Our local Boys & Girls Club provides academic, engaging, and supportive out-of-school care for Bainbridge Island youth from kindergarten through 8th grade. This organization has also been an integral part of our community’s response to COVID-19. They, along with other local organizations, provided discounted rates and extended out-of-school programming.
Not even the pandemic could stop children from safely having fun and learning at the Boys & Girls Club of Bainbridge Island. The Club implemented remote learning programs to support children during stressful times. And, peer connection, adult mentorship, and engaging activities are still part of the curriculum. As part of their new virtual initiatives, they started offering Free Youth Force Job Readiness workshops.
This past year and a half, our Boys & Girls Club transformed from an after-school care center to a full-time, safe, and reliable place for kids to learn. Additionally, they’ve provided free childcare for frontline workers’ children. They continue to innovate by working with the Bainbridge Island School District and adapting their programs to meet the changing environment.
School Year Programs
Bainbridge’s Boys & Girls Club provides fun programs throughout the school year. There’s a program for K – 4th grade and a separate middle school program for 5th – 8th grade. Club members enjoy healthy snacks and choose from three to four program options. Kids can choose anything from cooking to sports, Minecraft to drone club. There is also a PowerHour to complete homework. 5th – 8th graders participate in PowerHour every day as well as a variety of program offerings from filmmaking to learning how to play the ukulele.
Get Involved
If you have a child or children who would like to get involved with our local Boys & Girls Club, the cost varies based on the program. You can find out more on their school year programs page. They also offer full-day camps during school breaks (winter, mid-winter, and summer). To see what the Club has been up to lately, check out their Facebook page.
Whether you have young children or not, it’s easy to see the long-lasting benefits of a nonprofit organization like this. The Club’s programs give students opportunities to try new things, gain confidence, make new friends, and learn in a safe, supportive environment. Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive. The Boys and Girls Club’s mission is to continue to uplift youth and help them reach their goals. If you would like to contribute to our local Club, you can easily donate online.
7 Unique Retreats in Washington
If you’re in need of a vacation to relax and recharge, here are seven of our favorite unique retreats. From family-friendly vacations to adults-only spa retreats, we’ve included something for everyone. Washington state has so many beautiful places to enjoy and these seven are sure to amaze and inspire.
Alderbrook Resort and Spa in Union
Photo by Alderbrook Resort & Spa.
Situated on the shore of the picturesque Hood Canal, the Alderbrook Resort is tucked away in nature. Available activities include yoga on the beach, boat excursions and kayak rentals, guided hikes, and forest meditation. Guests have the choice of rooms or cottages, some of which are pet-friendly. Live music enhances the weekend atmosphere, and available activities change with the seasons.
Travel Time from Bainbridge Island: 1 hour and 20 minutes (59 miles)
Post Hotel in Leavenworth
Photo by Post Hotel.
This adult-only retreat brings the Alps’ wellness concepts to the mountains of Leavenworth. Throughout the hotel, you can enjoy multiple relaxation lounges, saunas, steam rooms, pools, and a truly luxurious feel. A European breakfast, light lunch, and coffee and tea are all provided. If you want to explore the outdoors, you can rent bicycles, snowshoes, or cross-country skis. Or, check out the putting course nearby. For an upgraded experience, spa services are available.
Travel Time from Bainbridge Island: 3 hours and 20 minutes (130 miles + ferry)
Rosario Resort on Orcas Island
Photo by Rosario Resort.
A gem along the Eastsound of Orcas Island, the Rosario Resort is on the National Register of Historic Places. The resort is spread out over 40 acres with incredible views around every corner. The Moran Museum provides a colorful history of the resort as well as the history of famous shipbuilder Robert Moran. Self-guided tours are available. There are multiple pools on-site, three restaurants, a spa, and activities in the marina.
Travel Time from Bainbridge Island: 4.5 hours (125 miles + 2 ferries)
Ross Lake Resort in Ross Lake, Northern Cascades
Photo by Ross Lake Resort.
A true “away from it all” experience, Ross Lake Resort is a floating oasis in the middle of the Northern Cascades. It is open seasonally from mid-June to October. Although you must book far in advance, this floating resort is worth the wait. Established in 1952, the Ross Lake Resort was constructed on what was formerly a floating logging camp. You can stay at the lodge, camp, or visit for a day trip. There are no on-site restaurants or stores, so bring your own food and supplies.
Travel Time from Bainbridge Island: 3.5 hours (135 miles + ferry + boat)
Salish Lodge & Spa in Snoqualmie Falls
Photo by Salish Lodge & Spa.
Snoqualmie Falls is one of the most iconic landmarks in Washington, and this lodge is perched just above it. Being a guest of Salish Lodge means you have exclusive access to golf at the private Club at Snoqualmie Ridge, the only Jack Nicklaus Signature Course in Washington. A full-service spa and pools round out the retreat vibe of this local gem. This is also a great setting for meetings, weddings, and events, and the restaurant and falls view make for a great day trip destination.
Travel Time from Bainbridge Island: 1.5 hours (38 miles + ferry)
Semiahmoo Resort in Blaine
Photo by Semiahmoo Resort.
A getaway for the whole family! Semiahmoo offers kayak, standup paddleboarding, and bicycle rentals. Additionally, you can enjoy all kinds of activities on-site including live music, lawn games, outdoor movies, beach bonfires, fine dining, golf, a heated pool, and a spa with an array of treatments. Near the Canadian border, this resort has something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip there, be sure to check out their Resort Guide (PDF). It’s a helpful reference tool.
Travel Time from Bainbridge Island: 3 hours (120 miles)
Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum
Photo by Suncadia Resort.
One of the largest resorts in our state, Suncadia sits on 6,000+ acres of beautiful forest with three golf courses, multiple restaurants, miles of hiking and biking trails, and tons to see and do. Their summer activity guide is a great resource for everything available from kayak and ATV rentals to guided fishing excursions, concerts, and art. Winter activities include skiing and tubing. This resort is a true way to experience so many of Washington’s best recreation options.
Travel Time from Bainbridge Island: 2.5 hours (93 miles + ferry)
Second Quarter Market Review for Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge’s real estate market exceeded expectations in our second quarter. That’s even compared to last year’s similarly strong performance. We’ve compiled key highlights to keep you in the know about our local market.
Our Strong Seller’s Market
Bainbridge Island is still an increasingly competitive market, and we just had a strong second quarter. Since Bainbridge is so close to Seattle and retains its island beauty, it continues to attract buyers moving away from bigger cities as the way we work continues to trend toward remote work. There are still many more highly motivated buyers than sellers. Inventory remains low and demand remains high. Our Brokers can help navigate this competitive market. We’ve seen continued situations where buyers are outbid either by price or by an all-cash offer. Having a local expert as your guide can help you achieve success.
In the last five quarters outlined in the graph below, the continued growth trend in sales volume for the second quarter of 2021 is even higher than 2020’s second quarter. That was during the Covid lockdowns, which prompted a surge in home buying in places outside major cities – like Bainbridge Island and beyond. 
Average Prices
With our lower supply, we continue to see even higher prices. And, still, many buyers are showing that they are willing to meet the demands of Bainbridge’s pricing. As you can see below, the listing and sale prices both continue to rise. Sellers continue to benefit from our inventory shortage.
Market Insights from Matthew Gardner
In his most recent Monday with Matthew, our Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner, begins with the staggering fact that “prices have risen almost three-fold, as the cost to finance has dropped by 72%.” If the number sounds too good (or bad) to be true, that’s because it is. To get an accurate picture, you also have to consider inflation. Gardner points out that “just like other goods and services, the price of a house today is not directly comparable to the price of that same house 30 years ago”. That’s due to the influence of inflation in the long run. When you adjust for inflation, the rise in housing prices becomes less drastic. Without adjusting for inflation, “prices have risen by 268%.” But when you adjust for inflation, the “real prices have increased by 83.6%.” Therefore, “the increase is significantly lower than most people are talking about today.” This should come as welcome news to discouraged first-time home buyers.
Gardner then compares mortgage payments. Although, without adjusting for inflation, “mortgage payments have increased by 74.3%,” the inflation-adjusted “real payments are 10.7% lower!”. Of course, there are other monthly payments associated with homeownership like property taxes. They do not change with market fluctuations. But this still indicates “that prices have been able to rise so significantly because mortgage rates have dropped.” Additionally, home prices adjusted for inflation really haven’t skyrocketed, though many seem to think so. Again, this is great news for buyers.
There are some caveats, though. Gardner clarifies that “there are some markets across the country where the picture isn’t quite as rosy. In these places, prices have risen significantly more than the national average.” The Seattle metropolitan subunit, which extends around our local area, is one of these places. This is largely from the increasing affluence in relation to the tech boom.
Not a Housing Bubble
Gardner says the bottom line is “there are quantifiable reasons to believe that we are not in a national housing bubble today. But some markets will experience a significant slowdown in price growth given where prices are today in concert with the spectre of rising mortgage rates.” Ultimately, it’s still a strong seller’s market with an overall low supply and high demand. We expect to continue to see issues with affordability as prices and mortgage rates continue to climb.
