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Our Favorite Local Winter Traditions & Events
Beyond the bustle of official holidays, winter is a time to embrace the stillness and the inherent beauty of the cold. We chatted with our brokers about what they look forward to most during this time of year. From getting cozy to polar plunging, here are some of our favorite winter traditions, plus some upcoming events you will want to add to your calendar.
Getting Cozy on Bainbridge Island
Sometimes, favorite winter traditions are about taking time to savor the season. Sarah Sydor, Managing Broker, shared her family’s fun literary tradition. They like to visit Eagle Harbor Books and each person gets to choose a few books, “to read while we are home together during the cozy winter season. We also get a winter-themed puzzle every year at Eagle Harbor Books or Dana’s.”
Sometimes, you can find great joy just outside your door. Managing Broker Susan Grosten shared, “I love to go to Blackbird Bakery for hot chocolate and their amazing morning glory muffins! It can be crowded, but if the sun is out you can sit at the tables in the closed-off road next door and enjoy people walking by with their dogs. Sometimes there are people playing music out front; it’s charming. The problem is that it is right across the street from my Windermere office, and it is very tempting.” We agree, there are SO many amazing eateries and shops right outside our Windermere Bainbridge office, which is right downtown. And, we love supporting local businesses.
Unique Ways to Celebrate the New Year
Resolutions and champagne toasts are typical new year traditions, but we love to learn about traditions that are as unique as our agents.
Broker Andrea Mann’s family celebrates a Greek tradition, gathering on New Year’s Day to cut St. Basil’s bread. “It is a sweet round bread that has a foil-covered coin baked into it. We cut the bread into triangular slices. Whomever receives the coin is said to have good luck for the upcoming new year!” she explained. Baking the bread is another tradition for her family. Here is a recipe we found for the bread, also known as Vasilopita. It is an egg-bread that is flavored with orange zest and sesame seeds.
Broker Pauline Simon is a third-generation Bainbridge Islander and has a favorite local tradition for starting the new year. “One of my favorite winter traditions is the annual Crystal Springs neighborhood polar bear plunge on New Year’s Day. We all join at the water’s edge, and as soon as we hear the blow of the horn, we run into the water together. Afterwards, we gather around the fire with huge grins on our faces and feel more alive than ever!”
If you are looking to join a plunge this year, you can find more information here. If cold plunging followed by a sauna session sounds appealing, there’s a new business near Lynwood Center called Fire + Floe, which offers contrast therapy: a dip in Puget Sound followed by a cedar sauna session.
Winter Adventures off the Island
If you are looking for inspiration or a reminder to visit a place you haven’t been to in a while, we have a couple of great options from local experts. Vesna Somers, Managing Broker, definitely takes advantage of how easy it is to enjoy Seattle by hopping aboard the ferry. “I love to visit Pike Place Market… strolling the market during the day and hanging out at The Pink Door there for cocktails and dinner at night, ” she shared. The Pink Door has been a staple of Post Alley since the 1980s and is known for their eclectic entertainment and Italian-inspired dishes with local ingredients. Fun fact: the majority of the produce used at the Pink Door is sourced from Butler Farms right here on Bainbridge Island.
Want to get outdoors to enjoy the snow? Owner and Designated Broker Carter Dotson loves to check snow conditions on PowderPoobah before hitting the slopes. If you have a skier or snowboarder in your house, you’ll want to subscribe to their newsletter to stay in the know about where to find the best conditions all season. If you need a warmer jacket or wool socks, we suggest visiting Wildernest on Winslow Way. You’ll find an amazing selection of outdoor apparel.
Upcoming Events
Bainbridge Island is also home to events that will appeal to a wide range of interests. Mochi Tsuki is a Bainbridge Island New Year’s tradition for 36 years and counting. We love this festival, and it will be on January 10th this year. It features performances by Seattle Kokon Taiko, food vendors, and the signature mochi-making.
In February, mark your calendar for Happily Ever After. This is a special event hosted by the BARN Writers’ Studio on February 7th. It combines storytelling with wine and chocolate to celebrate the romance genre. It’s a unique way to celebrate love and literature. If you haven’t visited BARN (Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network) before, we highly recommend it.
Bainbridge Symphony Orchestra’s “All Aboard” will be the weekend of February 13th – 15th. It features Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8 in G Major and is described as “the perfect musical escape to shake off the winter blues and explore the world through sound.” There’s nothing like hearing a live orchestra, and we’re so glad this event is right here on Bainbridge Island.
Lastly, you can’t forget about the dynamic landscape that we call home. Commercial Managing Broker Kelly Muldrow is a big fan of the annual Chilly Hilly cycling event. This aptly named tradition also occurs in February on Bainbridge Island. “It is a great way to connect with a lot of locals, and a lot of people from the cycling community,” he said. Actually, he credits this race as the catalyst for falling in love with Bainbridge. The annual ride is considered the start of the cycling season.
Recurring Winter Events
If you’re looking for an ongoing event or something not too big, there are lots of options for fun on the island this winter. The Marketplace at Pleasant Beach Village has weekly knitting circles and live music most Saturdays. At the Treehouse Cafe, you’ll find trivia nights as well as live music nights. View their events calendar for details. Additionally, Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA) offers a variety of winter events, including film screenings, artist meet-and-greets, and an MLK celebration. Check out their calendar to learn more.
We hope you are inspired by some of these traditions, events, and activities. May your winter season be cozy, creative, and full of memorable experiences.
Start the New Year Off Right With These Fun Activities
Each new year brings hope and the chance to start fresh. Here are some activities to help you feel rejuvenated and more connected to this incredible place we call home.
New Year, New View
We all get caught up in our daily lives and sometimes we take this gorgeous area for granted. Grab your coat and visit a trail you haven’t been to in months or ever. There are many great trails here on Bainbridge, like Grand Forest, which covers 240 acres and has approximately eight miles of trails. The Kitsap Peninsula offers many wonderful places to enjoy. Another peaceful spot is Point No Point Park and Lighthouse in Hansville. There’s a short nature trail, a beautiful beach, and the oldest lighthouse on Puget Sound. While you’re taking it all in, try to remember what it felt like to experience this place for the first time. Or, if you grew up here, remember the joy of sharing this place with a visitor. Tapping into that can help you see your surroundings with fresh eyes.
Unplug For One Day
If your routine involves a lot of time in front of a computer or on your phone, take a day to fully unplug. Turn off all of your electronics. Yes, even your phone. It can be challenging yet rewarding. Play a board game with your family, write good ol’ fashioned letters or thank you cards, bake cookies for a neighbor. You may be surprised how often you automatically reach for your phone. In just one day, you can see where you really are on the usage spectrum. And, you may decide you want to limit your screen time as a new year’s resolution. Even if you are fine with how much time you spend in front of screens, a day off from electronics can help you appreciate them more.
Share Your Love of Books, New and Old
Whether you’re a voracious reader or have fond childhood memories of reading some of the classics, start the new year off by sharing your love of books. Donate a few of your books to your nearest Little Free Library so that others can enjoy them. If there isn’t a Little Free Library near you, start your own! Either way, it’s a great way to connect with neighbors, friends, and family over beloved books.
After you add to or start your own Little Free Library, you’ll have the perfect excuse to visit your local bookstore. After all, you’ll have gaps on your bookshelf that you’ll need to fill. You can find an array of excellent books at Eagle Harbor Book Co. here on Bainbridge Island and Poulsbo’s Liberty Bay Books.
If you never seem to have the time to sit down with a good book, try downloading a free app called Libby. You can borrow audiobooks by connecting the app to your Kitsap Regional Library card. It’s user-friendly and offers tons of bestsellers and classics for free.
Create a Gratitude Jar
Want a simple yet meaningful activity that gets the whole family involved? Get a large jar and decorate it with the word “gratitude” on it or purchase a gratitude jar like this one. Every week, your family members can put little notes in it, describing what you’re thankful for and memorable moments. To establish this new habit, pick a day that you’ll each add one note to the jar, like on Sundays after dinner. That way, it quickly becomes part of your routine. Also, make sure your gratitude jar is in a prominent place so anyone can jot down a note whenever they want. At the end of the year, you’ll get to go through all of these little notes together. It’s an easy way to regularly practice gratitude and an enjoyable way to reflect on the year’s highlights.
We wish you a happy, healthy 2026!
Why Overpricing Your Home Can Cost You
If you’re preparing to sell, you may run the risk of overpricing your home. From Zestimates to pricing it based on what your neighbor’s home sold for, it can be tempting to price your property based on what you might make. Here are some common challenges sellers face if they overprice their home.
You can lose potential buyers
Overpricing your home may mean potential buyers will not see your listing in their online home search. Most buyers filter their searches by price, and their agent will know the local market. If a buyer’s agent believes a home is overpriced, they won’t want to waste time showing it to their clients, especially when there are properly priced homes ready and waiting. Furthermore, as a seller, you really want to capitalize on the attention your property gets the moment it goes live. Sellers have a small window to capture buyers’ attention, and when it’s new to market, you want to make sure potential buyers see it right away. This translates to more online views, more showings, and more potential offers.
You’ll waste time and resources
Selling your home usually requires a significant amount of prep work. This can include making needed repairs and updates, decluttering and deep cleaning it, staging it, and marketing it. Of course, there are also showings and the need to keep your home meticulously clean if you’re still living in it. If you overprice your home, it could sit on the market for quite a while. Some buyers may see how long it’s been on the market and assume something is wrong with it even if it’s a wonderful property. Overpricing your home could lead to a great deal of time and resources wasted, both for you and your agent. Every week or month that passes without any offers means more staging costs incurred, not to mention still having to pay the mortgage, utilities, landscaping, and more.
There may be appraisal issues
Even if you do find an interested buyer for your overpriced home, if the buyer requires financing, this could lead to appraisal issues. Lenders require an appraisal of the property’s value. If the appraisal comes out below the asking price, the buyer may need to make up the difference. That could cause a buyer to walk away from the deal.
This may lead to lost opportunities
As a seller, you may think that starting high gives you leverage and you can always come down later if needed. However, by doing so, you lose negotiating power as soon as your listing goes live at an inflated price. Most buyers know better, and certainly knowledgeable buyer’s agents will. These savvy folks will wait for the inevitable price drop instead of making a “low-ball” offer. When they do, it’s usually lower than what you would have received if your home had been competitively priced from the beginning. As a result, the leverage shifts from the seller to the buyer. When you finally receive an offer, you’re negotiating from a weakened position with a stale listing. And, they may want to negotiate down even more.
Simply put, overpricing your home can derail the sale from the start. Pay attention to your local real estate market. Don’t ignore the realities of it or the time of year in which you’re selling. It’s best to take a pragmatic approach to pricing and to trust your agent. Our Windermere Bainbridge Island Brokers are highly rated and can provide a free Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). Along with this detailed report on your home’s value, they can discuss our local market here on Bainbridge Island. By beginning with a data-informed approach, you’ll be able to make better decisions. Don’t let your desire to get a little more money by overpricing your home result in a financial loss. Proper pricing gives you the best chance to sell your home quickly, attract motivated buyers, and have a smooth home-selling process.
Enjoy a Wintercation at Bainbridge Senior Living
With winter approaching, many older adults may not be fond of this time of year. Whether you’ve called Bainbridge Island home for decades or you are thinking of moving here, one way to find enjoyment in the chilliest season is by taking a Wintercation at Bainbridge Senior Living. Bainbridge Senior Living, a family-owned senior living community, provides a range of lifestyle options and varying levels of care for seniors. Their Wintercation program is unique and offers many benefits. Learn all about it in our Q&A with Bainbridge Senior Living’s Community Relations Director, Carrie Chavez.
What is Wintercation, and how did it get started?
How much does it cost, and who is eligible?
Is there an application deadline?
What kinds of amenities and activities are included?
- Chef-prepared meals, which are served daily
- Weekly housekeeping and laundry service
- 24-hour staff support and assistance as needed
- Scheduled transportation for errands and appointments
- A full calendar of social, fitness, and creative activities — from art workshops and exercise classes to live music and community events
Chef-prepared meal. Photo courtesy of Bainbridge Senior Living.
What have past participants said about Bainbridge Senior Living’s Wintercation program?
Thanks for all of this helpful information, Carrie! Bainbridge Senior Living often has events such as Jeopardy and breakfast socials, and they welcome the community to join in on the fun. Contact them or follow their Facebook page or Instagram to learn more.
If you’re looking for related resources, check out these articles:
Retiring on Bainbridge Island: Amenities and Resources
Downsize with These Helpful Tips
Avoid These Costly Home-Selling Mistakes
What to Know When Buying a New Construction Home
New homes come equipped with great appliances and modern features. But a brand new home is not without flaws. If you want to buy a new construction home, do your research first. This will ensure you invest with your eyes wide open. Like any property, a new construction home can come with costly pitfalls if you make assumptions along the way. Here’s what to know and what to avoid.
Every builder is different
Before purchasing a new construction home, research the builder. Local builders should be listed on the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries website. If a builder is not listed, call that department. You want to make sure the builder is licensed to work in our state. Additionally, you’ll want to avoid builders with infractions, such as safety citations or pending lawsuits. Also, it can be helpful to read clients’ reviews online. If possible, talk to people who have bought a house built by a certain builder. See how it has held up over time.
Local Brokers and home inspectors are great resources, too. They can provide other valuable builder and neighborhood details. In small communities like ours here on Bainbridge Island, working with locals is incredibly advantageous. A well-connected real estate agent can provide the resources and insider information you need. They know the history of different areas, builders’ reputations, and the nuances of certain neighborhoods.
Timelines can change
Construction timelines can vary widely, especially given a home’s size, location, and features. Therefore, you’ll want to establish a deadline from the beginning, along with project milestones. By doing so, you’ll avoid miscommunication and have a clear goal to work toward.
Unfortunately, new construction homes often experience delays. From supply chain disruptions to adverse weather, there can be twists and turns along the way. And, keep in mind that if you request construction changes midway, this will also delay the timeline. A local, experienced, and transparent broker can be quite an asset in this situation. Lastly, it’s essential to read the fine print in any contracts. You’ll want to make sure the sections on delays are reasonable and that protections for you are included.
Know what’s included and what’s not
Some new-construction buyers believe they can completely customize a new home, including the cabinetry, doors, and layout. This isn’t necessarily the case. Be sure to ask potential builder partners what they specifically provide for customization. While many builders offer some level of personalization, that’s very different from completely customizing a new home. Talk openly and frequently with your builder. Ask your customization and design questions right away to avoid costly mistakes. Often, potential upgrades include hardwood or tile flooring and custom countertops. If you do decide to upgrade, those changes and costs are added to the contract to avoid misunderstandings.
Hire an independent home inspector
Even though these homes are brand new, it’s still worth getting a home inspection. You’re essentially the first person to test the home out to see if there are any problems with components like the HVAC and the roof. Hiring an independent home inspector will help you identify any needed repairs. Furthermore, an independent home inspector’s report will help you start a dialogue with the builder about addressing any issues before you move in. According to Realtor.com, “if you’re buying a home under construction, you should hire an inspector twice. The first time is so they can look over the home before the walls are closed, and inspect framing and systems installation. The second should be after the home is complete, so they can inspect everything else.”
Understand your home warranty
New-construction builds often come with a home warranty—a promise to fix anything that breaks within a set period of time. However, many homebuyers don’t use it because they don’t know what it covers or for how long. Warranties can safeguard against poor construction and/or any unanticipated defects. It’s vital that you fully understand what the builder warranty covers.
Buying a new construction home involves many steps and stages, so be sure to ask any questions you have throughout the process.
Have a question about new home construction that we didn’t answer? Please contact one of our highly-rated, local agents. They’d be happy to assist you.
Easy Fall Dinners with Local Ingredients
Fall dinners can be easy to make and so flavorful, thanks to local ingredients. We’ve rounded up some delicious recipes that celebrate the season and support Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap businesses and farms. Each recipe is simple enough to make on a weeknight yet unique enough to serve at a dinner party.
Baked Rigatoni with Sausage
Autumn calls for comfort food, and what better way to highlight that than a delicious baked pasta dish? This rigatoni recipe by Giada De Laurentiis, is done in just under an hour. It includes sausage, broccoli, mozzarella and parmesan. (Vegetarians can easily omit the sausage.) Stop into the market at Bay Hay & Feed here on Bainbridge Island to get fresh local produce, meat, and cheese. And, even better, Bay Hay has pasta from Local Goods. Made on Orcas Island, Local Goods’ pastas are made with USDA certified organic Non GMO semolina. For this recipe, you can use their big rigatoni or their beet and kale rigatoni.
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
It’s the perfect time to pick up some fresh, wild salmon, and Suquamish Seafoods has that and so much more. An easy weeknight meal, this baked lemon garlic salmon recipe by Suzy Karadsheh of The Mediterranean Dish is packed with flavor and done in about 30 minutes. We recommend pairing it with some fresh bread from Winney Farm and some roasted zucchini or cauliflower – all found at the Bainbridge Island Farmers’ Market.
Roasted Poblano and Corn Soup
As the days get colder, soups become even more enticing! Try this roasted poblano and corn soup recipe from Town & Country Market. By using fresh corn, you’re sure to taste its sweetness, which mixes perfectly with the peppers. This vegetarian meal has just the right amount of heat. In about 50 minutes, you be enjoying the coziness of fall. Best of all, the ingredients can easily be found at Town & Country Market here on Bainbridge Island or at their Poulsbo location.
Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs and Garlicky Green Beans
This recipe for cider glazed chicken thighs only takes about a half an hour. It’s a flavorful, one-pot meal that prove fall dinners don’t have to be tricky or involve tons of dishes. It’s filled with sweet potatoes, apples, and juicy chicken thighs. At the time of writing this, Bainbridge Island/Suyematsu Farms has fresh picked apples that would be perfect in this dish. You could also purchase some of their garlic and green beans to make garlicky green beans for a side dish.
Roasted Winter Squash with Pesto Pasta
Nothing says autumn like bringing something orange to the table. This simple yet scrumptious roasted winter squash recipe makes a great weeknight side dish. It only takes 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. Pairing it with a pesto pasta entree creates a colorful meal that will delight your palate. Short on basil or don’t have the time to make pesto from scratch? Stop by Via Rosa 11 here on Bainbridge Island. Their pesto is excellent. It’s made with Genovese basil from Fat Turnip Farms. In fact, Via Rosa has all kinds of great sauces, fresh pastas, soups, and ready made meals.
Fall Dessert Ideas
If you have a sweet tooth, you may be wondering what to make for dessert. Well, Bainbridge History Museum has a great one for you to try. The staff recently shared this historic Apple Torte recipe. It’s from the 1960s and we recommend using crisp local apples for it.
Also, Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network (BARN) has a cooking class coming up on Oct. 12th. It’s called “Use the Whole Pumpkin”. In it, you’ll “learn how to break down a whole local pumpkin and turn it into a from-scratch pie and other meals”. All ingredients are included and it’s taught by Anne Willhoit, a teacher, food writer, photographer, and baker.
We hope these ideas for fall dinners (and more) inspire you to use local ingredients and enjoy what this season offers. And, you may want to visit one of our local wineries to pick up a bottle that will perfectly compliment your meal.
Retiring on Bainbridge Island: Amenities and Resources
If you’re thinking of retiring on beautiful Bainbridge Island, you’ll find there’s no shortage of resources, amenities, and fun things to do. From housing and transportation options to different ways to get involved in the community, there’s something for everyone.
Best Place to Retire
Bainbridge Island offers an abundance of nature, a welcoming community, and a slower pace of life. It’s no wonder it has been featured in Condé Nast Traveler and USA Today’s Best Small Towns. Here you can enjoy outdoor recreation, award-winning restaurants, museums and golf courses.
Ben Hoover, Windermere Bainbridge Broker, shared why some of his clients chose to retire here: “I recently worked with some nice people who chose Bainbridge for their retirement because of the culture of welcomeness, temperate climate, close proximity to heath care systems and hospitals, combined with the peacefulness of nature found on the island.”
Transportation Options
Our various public transportation options make it easy to explore by ferry, car, and bus. You can drive on and off the island via Agate Pass Bridge, which connects you to the greater Kitsap Peninsula. Additionally, Kitsap Transit offers a robust bus network. More specifically, their ACCESS and VanLink programs allow you to schedule door-to-door or curb-to-curb transportation. It’s available to seniors and people with disabilities unable to use the fixed route transit system. And, if you want to spend a day in the city, you can hop on a ferry to Seattle. You’ll be there in 35 minutes.
As Windermere Bainbridge Broker Andrea Mann succinctly puts it, “Retirees move to the island the same reason everyone wants to move here. A special sense of community, all of the opportunities here, access to incredible outdoor activities, and a world-class city’s offerings just a ferry ride away!” Chris Miller, Windermere Bainbridge Managing Broker, also says the ferry is a top reason people want to retire here, as well as “local activities, the arts, and choices in medical facilities.”
Getting Connected
“Being new to Bainbridge as a retiree is a great opportunity to engage in activities and get involved in the community,” says Sarah Sydor, Windermere Bainbridge Managing Broker. “I always find out what my clients like to do and connect them to resources such as Bainbridge Parks & Rec, BARN (Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network), information on trails, and more. There are so many organizations to get involved with as volunteers or board members, who appreciate the time and expertise a retiree brings to the table. When you move to Bainbridge you are joining a community. It’s not hard to get connected if you continue to do activities you love and reach out to engage.”
A wonderful place to visit is Bainbridge Island Senior & Community Center. You’ll find a range of activities, events, and classes. Offerings include walking groups, meditation sessions, movement classes, monthly potlucks, guest lectures, book groups, community choir, and support groups. Also, the Kitsap Regional Library is an incredible local resource. Each branch of the library offers all kinds of free events. Our libraries offer tax preparation assistance, classes about healthy aging, and more.
Volunteer Opportunities
If you’d like to volunteer your time and/or your expertise, there are many ways you can do so. Kitsap Regional Library has a Friends of the Library group here on Bainbridge Island. Consider joining Rotary Club of Bainbridge Island, volunteering at BIMA (Bainbridge Island Museum of Art) or PAWS of Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap. If a nature-focused volunteer opportunity is more your style, consider helping out at Bloedel Reserve. Spanning 140 acres, Bloedel Reserve is an award-winning public garden and home to many unique programs and events.
Living Options
While some seniors may want to age in place, staying in their own home as long as possible, others like the connectedness and many amenities of a retirement community. You can explore your options, by checking out the Kitsap County Division of Aging and Long-Term Care for retirement resources and planning assistance.
Regarding senior living facilities, you can check out options like Bainbridge Senior Living and Fieldstone of Bainbridge. Both offer different types of residences, from independent living to memory care. It’s important to research any options that appeal to you. We suggest connecting with locals who live there or know others who do so you can get different perspectives.
If you want even more resources, check out the Kitsap County Senior Resources guide. It has all kinds of information including resources for counseling, Medicare, hospitals, and home health assistance. And, if you still have questions, please reach out. Our Brokers are proud locals and would be happy to assist you in any way that they can.
Questions to Ask During a Home Inspection
As a buyer, you want to make informed decisions about the home you’d like to purchase. When it comes to the home inspection, we recommend asking the questions below to get the most out of it. By doing so, you’ll uncover potential issues and can decide what’s the best next step given all you’ve learned.
Home Inspection 101
If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you may be wondering what exactly a home inspection entails. In short, it’s a visual assessment of a home’s condition. A home inspector looks for a wide range of potential problems throughout the home, including issues with walls, floors, windows, doors, decks, attics, ceilings, and more. As a buyer, you may want to accompany the inspector during the inspection. As the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains, “Inspectors can show potential homeowners where certain plumbing or electrical details are located and help buyers understand the scope of a potential problem.” Additionally, NAR states that, “A member of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors is a trustworthy individual to perform the inspection.”
A home inspection is not meant to, nor can it, guarantee the condition of a home on the closing date. Furthermore, conditions can change between the inspection and the closing. There are conditions that are obviously hazardous and others that are less clear-cut. For example, exposed electrical wiring is clearly unsafe whereas the presence of mold isn’t as easy to assess since there are many different kinds. (We also live in a damp climate here in Bainbridge Island, WA.) Asbestos, mold, water purity, and similar issues typically require a specialist inspection.
Keep in mind that home inspectors are not experts in every home system. As the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors states, home inspectors are “generalists trained to recognize evidence of potential problems in the different home systems and their major components. Inspectors need to know when a problem is serious enough to recommend a specialist inspection. Recommendations are often made for a qualified contractor, such as a plumber or electrician, and sometimes for a structural engineer.”
When Hiring an Inspector
When interviewing inspectors, ask how they handle special safety concerns. If you have a well-connected local real estate agent, they’ll be able to refer you to someone they’ve worked with before. Whether you’re finding someone on your own or working with someone your Realtor recommended, it’s important to directly communicate with them. Ask any and all questions you may have. This will prevent assumptions or misunderstandings, ensuring a smoother real estate transaction overall.
Questions to Ask:
- How long have you been an inspector? We recommend asking for referrals, especially if it’s a newer inspector.
- Do you have a background in residential inspections?
- Are you a member of a professional home inspector association, and do you hold any other credentials?
- What will your inspection cover? Be sure to get this information in writing. You’ll also want to make sure that it’s in compliance with state requirements and includes the items you want to be inspected.
- How long will the inspection take? It usually takes 2 – 3 hours for a single-family home, but this specific property may be different.
- How much will it cost? Costs vary based on factors such as the home’s square footage and age.
- Can I be present for the inspection, and will you go over the inspection report with me? This can be very valuable. If an inspector says no, that’s a red flag.
Home Inspection Questions
Here are some helpful questions to ask during and after the home inspection. Remember, the more specific you are, the more detailed their responses will be. You want to learn all you can about this property – whether it’s a turnkey property or a fixer-upper.
- What is the home’s overall condition?
- Do you see any immediate safety concerns?
- Are there any cracks or signs of shifting in the foundation?
- How old is the roof, and are there any leaks, missing shingles, or damage?
- Are the electrical systems up to code?
- Is the plumbing all in good working order?
- Do you see any signs of leaks or water damage?
- How old is the HVAC?
- Are the HVAC systems working properly?
- When examining the ceilings, floors, and walls, do you see any issues?
- Are all of the windows and doors in good condition?
- Is the home’s exterior in good condition overall?
- Are there any signs of rodents or pests?
- Is there any evidence of mold or moisture issues?
- What types of maintenance should be budgeted for after purchasing this home?
- In the long term, are there any specific issues or concerns?
The More You Know
Home tours and professional photos showcase a home’s best features while a home inspection lists all of the property’s flaws and potential issues. It isn’t glamorous, but finding out more will give you the information you need to negotiate and/or decide what is best for you. The last thing you want is to experience buyer’s remorse. Be as thorough as possible, and try to see the property through the inspector’s eyes.
If you forego a home inspection, it could potentially cost you a lot of money and many hassles down the road. Getting one done can uncover important insights and provide peace of mind during this phase of the home-buying process.
Investment Properties, Fixer-Upper vs. Turnkey, and More
Every home buyer has a unique situation and specific goals that influence their decision-making process. From investment properties to turnkey homes, we’ve compiled a list of some frequently asked questions. Below you’ll find helpful considerations and resources to assist you on your real estate journey.
What should I look for when considering investment properties?
When searching for an investment property, several key considerations should be taken into account. Think about the property’s proximity to local amenities, what the neighborhood and larger community offer, and the potential development of that area. If you’re specifically looking at homes for sale on Bainbridge Island, you’ll also want to think about its proximity to the ferry for commuters. Furthermore, you’ll want to examine nearby rentals and vacancies, looking at the current rental market as a whole. Major employers in the area and average rental prices are also factors that could impact the return on your investment. After you purchase an investment property, ensure it is properly maintained. If you don’t want the stress that can come with being a landlord, check out Windermere Property Management. It’s a great local option here in Kitsap County. Our colleagues there work hard to exceed their clients’ expectations. Alternatively, if you’re thinking you’d like to hold onto this new property as a vacation home instead of renting it out, Bainbridge Ready offers estate care, concierge service, and complete home management.
What are the pros and cons of a fixer-upper?
Fixer-upper homes are all about the potential they offer to homebuyers. From repairs to renovations, fixer-upper homes can vary widely. For example, a fixer-upper may require new flooring and siding, whereas another property may need roof repairs, cosmetic fixes, and replacement of some appliances. If you are looking for a smaller-scale renovation, look for homes for sale that require cosmetic projects like new interior and/or exterior paint, fresh carpeting, and basic landscaping maintenance. More expensive projects include re-roofing, replacing HVAC systems, and full-scale room remodels. While fixer-uppers can be exciting for those who are handy or know a great, local team of contractors, projects may run long and over budget, supply costs might rise, and the market might change by the time the house is ready to move into or rent. With these types of scenarios in mind, it’s best to talk to your homeowner’s insurance company in advance to understand what’s covered. While fixer-upper properties have a lot of potential, it’s up to you to turn that dream into a reality. You want to ensure the return on your investment will be fully realized.
What are the pros and cons of a turnkey home?
Turnkey homes are also called move-in ready because they’re ready the day you receive the keys. If you’re purchasing a property to rent out for passive income, then a turnkey home can be advantageous. It’s ready for you to rent right away. A turnkey property may be a new construction home or a recently remodeled listing that is in excellent condition. You don’t have to worry about renovations or repairs. This can be appealing to busy families or people looking to downsize. However, there’s typically more competition for turnkey homes vs. fixer-uppers. Homes that are move-in ready also tend to be priced higher.
What should I look for when buying land?
While Bainbridge Island is an incredible place to live, buying land here requires thorough research. A parcel of land may be zoned for residential or commercial use or both. Find out if the land you’re looking to purchase is zoned for your specific interests and needs. Additionally, think seriously about how the land you’re looking to buy could be impacted by a natural disaster. From wildfires to floods, earthquakes to mudslides, take every possibility seriously. To learn more, read our article detailing what to consider when buying land to build a house.
Utilize a local real estate expert
While different types of properties come with different considerations, a local real estate expert will benefit you in any of these situations in many ways. Their insider knowledge of the local real estate market will help you make well-informed decisions and avoid making any costly mistakes. A great agent will also have a network of excellent local lenders, home inspectors, repair workers, and more. Contact one of our highly-rated agents to get started.
Do This Before Looking at Homes for Sale on Bainbridge Island
There are many different types of homes for sale on Bainbridge Island, ranging from stunning waterfront properties and luxury homes to quaint condos and townhomes. But before you dive into online searches and open houses, there are some important steps to take to ensure success. Buying a home is an exciting and in-depth process, and buying a home on Bainbridge Island means being aware of different factors that could mean the difference between you landing your dream home and losing out on the place that would suit you best. Here’s what you need to do before you start your real estate search.
1. Get pre-approved
Before looking at homes for sale on Bainbridge Island, it’s crucial to get pre-approved for a mortgage. You need to fully understand your budget, and your lender will need to conduct a thorough credit history check. Be ready to provide financial documents like pay stubs, bank statements, and tax returns. Not knowing your financial health in advance is like walking into a potential negotiation empty-handed. You want to put your best foot forward with an official pre-approval so that as soon as you find a house you want to make an offer on, you can do so right away.
In some real estate markets, you may have time to peruse listings, casually view open houses, and then make an offer when the time seems right. Here on Bainbridge Island, our local real estate market works differently. Since this is a popular place to live, there are many multiple offer situations, and it’s common to hear about all-cash offers. So, if you need financing, be sure to have your ducks in a row and be ready to make a competitive offer quickly. A local lender is also a great resource. They know the area, can provide good rates, and tend to be more available to ensure a smoother process than a distant national bank.
2. Make a need, want, and nice-to-have list
It’s easy to get enticed by beautiful property photos online. It’s also fun to imagine yourself when walking through gorgeous homes that all seem like “the one” at first. But it’s important to first get clear on what you need and want. This will help shape your vision and make it easier to weed out nice homes that simply don’t have everything you require. No one wants to spend countless hours searching, let alone get to the offer phase (or further) and then suddenly realize it’s actually not truly what you want or need. You can avoid this misstep by making a three-column list. In the first column, list what you need. Next, list what you want. And last, list aspects or features that are nice to have as bonuses when thinking of your ideal home.
For example, you and your partner may know that you want at least a 3-bedroom, 2-bath house but does it matter how old the home is, if it’s more than one story, or if it has an open concept layout? Do you need to have a bedroom on the main floor? Do either of you need or want to have a finished basement, a home office, a workout room, or a fenced backyard? If the home doesn’t have a spacious kitchen, updated bathrooms, or a garage – are those dealbreakers? If the property doesn’t have room for a garden is that a bonus you can do without or is it something you can’t live without? Do you want to be within a certain walking or driving distance from the ferry to Seattle or from a certain school?
If you want to buy a condo on Bainbridge Island, it’s best to start thinking about added fees, whether certain types of condos fit your lifestyle better than others, which amenities are must-haves, and if you have any condo-related dealbreakers.
If you’re looking at land listings to build your dream home, do your research before viewing lots. Look into utilities, nearby amenities, and potential hazards. Check out our article on considerations when buying land to learn more about that process.
3. Research the Bainbridge Island market
As we mentioned, Bainbridge Island’s real estate market is still going strong. Below, you can see highlights from our most recent quarterly market update. Knowing our average home sale price is $1.6M may surprise some homebuyers. While there is still a range here on the island, it is important to manage your expectations around the financial aspects of buying a home here. It can also get pretty competitive. One of the best ways to ensure success in this market is to work with a highly-rated local real estate agent. They will know the intricacies of different parts of the island, can connect you with local lenders, builders, and much more. Additionally, they can provide recent sales data and the latest market research. Also, they will look at homes for sale and can refine your search to streamline the process. By doing so, you’ll be able to make more informed decisions every step of the way.
4. Learn more about Bainbridge Island
If you’re thinking of moving to Bainbridge Island but haven’t spent much time here, we highly suggest you learn more about our area and the island itself before making an offer on a home. While we love living and working here, Bainbridge Island isn’t for everyone. Some people who are new to the Pacific Northwest aren’t fans of the rainy season while others don’t like living on an island (though it is an island you can drive on and off vs. one that’s only accessible by boat or ferry). Our wetter climate means you may have to deal with a moss or mold issue, flood zone concerns, and/or more frequent roof inspections. On the other hand, Bainbridge Island is also home to lush forested trails, incredible beaches, and an award-winning public garden. We also have top-tier schools, a focus on sustainable living, a thriving arts scene, and much more. Additionally, each neighborhood has its own interesting characteristics that you’ll want to consider. If you do your research in advance and talk to your local broker about what you’re looking for, you’ll have a better idea of which neighborhood would suit you best. It’s also a great idea to spend time in specific neighborhoods if possible. Walk around, say hello to any neighbors you pass by, and live like a local as much as you can.
5. Be prepared to make a strong offer
It’s one thing to do your research and look at homes for sale, it’s another thing to be fully prepared when you find the right one. You want to be ready to make a strong offer right away. If you already own a home and are thinking of buying and selling simultaneously, you may want to consider the Windermere Bridge Loan program. With this program, you can buy before you sell, using the equity from your current home to make a non-contingent offer on a new one. This increases your negotiation power. The approval process only takes a few days.
Other ways that you can stand out as a buyer include making a larger earnest money deposit, possibly waving certain contingencies, and show your willingness to work toward a quick closing.
