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Windermere Foundation Gives Back to Local Community
Iām grateful to be part of a company that truly believes in giving back where we live and work, and continues to make a difference right here in our community.
As the Windermere Real Estate Skagit Valley Foundation Director, I recently had the honor of helping coordinate a $1,000 donation from our office to support the Mount Vernon School Districtās Annual Coats for Kids drive. This program provides warm coats to homeless and in-need students, helping ensure every child stays warm through the winter months.
A special thank-you to Emily Griffin and her team at Guild Mortgage for being such an important part of this cause and for continuing to show up for our community.
Would you like to learn more about the Windermere Foundation?Ā Reach out to me at daniellemartin@windermere.com for more information and an application.
November in the Skagit Valley
November in the Skagit Valley? Yes, please.
Discover the must-attend events this monthāfrom cozy markets to local theatre and holiday previews.
Whether youāre new to the valley or a lifelong local, thereās something here to spark your weekend moves.
Ready to take a look at what changed in our real estate market in September 2025?
Learn more about Snohomish County by visiting HERE.
Why October Is the Best Time To Buy a Home in 2025
Why October Is the Best Time To Buy a Home in 2025
If youāve been watching from the sidelines, nowās the time to lean in. Itās officially the best time to buy this year. According to Realtor.com, this October will have the most buyer-friendly conditions of any month in 2025:
āBy mid-October, buyers across much of the country may finally find the combination of inventory, pricing, and negotiating power theyāve been waiting forāa rare opportunity in a market that has been tight for most of the past decade.ā
So, if youāre ready and able to buy right now, shooting for this month means you should see:
- More homes to choose from
- Less competition from other buyers
- More time to browse
- Better home prices
- Sellers who are more willing to negotiate
For most of the top 50 largest metros, that sweet spot falls in October. But the peak time to buy may be slightly earlier or later, depending on where you live. As Realtor.com explains:
āWhile Oct. 12ā18 is the national āBest Week,ā timing can shift depending on the local markets. . .ā
Best Week To Buy for the Top 50 Largest Metro Areas
- Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA: September 28 ā October 4
- Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, TX: September 28 ā October 4
- Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD: October 12 ā 18
- Birmingham, AL: October 19 ā 25
- Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH: October 26 ā November 1
- Buffalo-Cheektowaga, NY: October 12 ā 18
- Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC: November 2 ā 8
- Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN: September 28 ā October 4
- Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN: October 12 ā 18
- Cleveland, OH: October 12 ā 18
- Columbus, OH: October 12 ā 18
- Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX: September 28 ā October 4
- Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO: October 12 ā 18
- Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI: October 12 ā 18
- Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood, MI: September 28 ā October 4
- Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT: September 21 ā 27
- Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands, TX: October 12 ā 18
- Indianapolis-Carmel-Greenwood, IN: October 26 ā November 1
- Jacksonville, FL: October 26 ā November 1
- Kansas City, MO-KS: October 12 ā 18
- Las Vegas-Henderson-North Las Vegas, NV: October 5 ā 11
- Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA: October 12 ā 18
- Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN: November 2 ā 8
- Memphis, TN-MS-AR: September 21 ā 27
- Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL: November 30 ā December 6
- Milwaukee-Waukesha, WI: September 7 ā 13
- Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI: October 26 ā November 1
- Nashville-Davidson–Murfreesboro–Franklin, TN: October 12 ā 18
- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ: September 14 ā 20
- Oklahoma City, OK: October 12 ā 18
- Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL: October 26 ā November 1
- Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD: September 7 ā 13
- Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, AZ: November 2 ā 8
- Pittsburgh, PA: October 12 ā 18
- Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA: October 26 ā November 1
- Providence-Warwick, RI-MA: October 19 ā 25
- Raleigh-Cary, NC: October 12 ā 18
- Richmond, VA: October 26 ā November 1
- Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA: September 28 ā October 4
- Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom, CA: October 12 ā 18
- San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX: October 12 ā 18
- San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA: October 12 ā 18
- San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA: October 12 ā 18
- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA: October 19 ā 25
- Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA: October 19 ā 25
- St. Louis, MO-IL: October 12 ā 18
- Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL: November 30 ā December 6
- Tucson, AZ: October 12 ā 18
- Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk, VA-NC: September 21 ā 27
- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV: October 12 ā 18
What the Experts Are Saying
And Realtor.com isnāt the only one saying youāve got an opportunity if you move now. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), explains:
āHomebuyers are in the best position in more than five years to find the right home and negotiate for a better price. Current inventory is at its highest since May 2020, during the COVID lockdown.ā
Daryl Fairweather, Chief Economist at Redfin, puts it like this:
āNationally, now is a good time to buy, if you can afford it . . . with falling mortgage rates and significantly more inventory, buyers have an upper hand in negotiations.ā
And NerdWallet says:
āThis fall just might be the best window for home buyers in the past five years.ā
How To Get Ready for this Golden Window
If you’re serious about buying, getting prepped for this October window is a smart play.
Want help lining up your strategy? Let’s have a quick conversation so you’ve got the information you need to be ready for this prime buying time.
Buying and Selling a Home at the Same Time?
Wondering how to buy a new home while selling your current oneāwithout blowing your budget or your sanity? You’re not alone. This is one of the most common (and stressful) scenarios homeowners face, especially in a market as dynamic as we have in the Pacific Northwest. The good news? With the right strategy, it’s entirely possible to navigate both transactions smoothly.
Understand the Core Challenge
The biggest issue when you’re buying and selling a home at the same time is timing. If you sell first, you may be scrambling to find your next home or risk temporary housing. If you buy first, you may be stuck carrying two mortgages or relying on a fast sale to avoid financial strain.
In high-demand areas like Bothell, Kirkland, and Woodinville, homes often sell quicklyābut competition on the buying side can still create delays. That means you’ll need a strong, flexible plan customized to your financial situation and local market conditions.
Option 1: Make a Contingent Offer
A contingent offer means your ability to buy a home is tied to selling your current one. This is often the least risky option financially, but it can make your offer less competitiveāespecially in seller-friendly markets.
Contingent offers are still accepted in Washington state, particularly if your current home is already listed or under contract. You’re in a stronger position if you’re working with an experienced agent who can communicate your plan clearly and if the seller has some flexibility on timing.
If you’re considering a contingent strategy, prep your home for listing before you start shopping. The faster your current home goes under contract, the stronger your offer becomes.
Option 2: Buy First, Then Sell
Buying first gives you more time to find the right property without rushing. But it also means taking on more financial risk. You’ll need to qualify for a second mortgage or have enough savings to manage two homes temporarily.
This approach works best if you have substantial savings, are confident your home will sell quickly, and have a strategic plan to minimize time on market. A strong agent is essential to ensure your current home is priced and positioned to attract quick offers.
Option 3: Use a Bridge Loan
Bridge loans are short-term financing tools that let you āunlockā the equity in your current home to buy a new one before selling. Available in Washington through select lenders and Windermere, they help buyers stay competitive without waiting for a sale to close.
Pros:
- Make a non-contingent offer (more appealing to sellers)
- Stay competitive in multiple-offer scenarios
- Move at your own pace
Cons:
- Higher interest rates and fees
- Short repayment period (often 6ā12 months)
- Not all properties or buyers qualify
Most bridge loan lenders in Washington will require you to have substantial equity (often 25%+), and may limit total loan-to-value ratios. It’s essential to work with a real estate advisor and lender who understand how these products work locally.
Option 4: Negotiate a Rent-Back Agreement
If you’re selling your home first, a rent-back agreement can give you more time to find your next place. This lets you stay in your current home for a set period after closing while paying rent to the buyer. It’s a useful tool in competitive markets like Mount Vernon and Anacortes, where timing flexibility is crucial.
Your agent can help you negotiate favorable rent-back terms to bridge the gap between your sale and your next purchase.
Option 5: Temporary Housing (as a Backup Plan)
While not ideal, having a short-term rental or staying with friends or family between homes can take the pressure off. It allows you to sell with less stress and buy without compromising. This strategy is often used during relocations or major lifestyle changes.
Smart Moves to Streamline the Process
No matter which route you choose, success hinges on preparation and expert guidance. Here are a few key tips to make the transition smoother:
- Start early with a local lender and a real estate advisor who understands both sides of the transaction.
- Prep your home to sell fast with strategic pricing, staging, and professional marketing.
Also, make sure you understand your finances in detail. Know your net proceeds, buying power, and how much you can comfortably carry month-to-month. Use local market insights to time your decisions strategically, especially in neighborhoods like Hilltop, Bay Meadows, and San Juan Passage.
Working with one agent for both buying and selling keeps your strategy aligned and communication clear. This unified approach is essential when timing and coordination matter most.
Why Strategy Matters More Than Timing
Trying to “time the market” is rarely the winning move. A well-executed strategy that accounts for your finances, goals, and local conditions will always outperform guesswork.
As a top Skagit Valley real estate advisor, I help homeowners navigate the complexities of buying and selling at the same timeāwith a proven plan, personalized guidance, and professional marketing that gets results.
Pumpkin Season & Halloween Fun in Skagit Valley
The crispāÆautumn air settles in and the leaves beneath our feet start to crunch as a foggy tingle fills the airā¦ Halloween is creeping closer! Itās time to conjure up some devilishly delightful pumpkin carvings, sip on warm cider, and soak up the magic of the season. Whether you are a seasoned pumpkin-carving pro or just getting started, Skagit Valley is brimming with inspiration, farm-fresh pumpkins, and festive events to make this fall unforgettable.Ā Keep reading for the best ways to celebrate pumpkin season & Halloween fun in Skagit Valley.
Skagit Valleyās Pumpkin Patches & Fall HotspotsĀ
Skagit Valley isnāt just a spring tulip paradise ā fall isĀ just as magicalāÆhere, with sprawling pumpkin fields, cozy farm stands, and fun everywhere you turn. Here are some of the best places to find your perfect pumpkin (and maybe a little autumn adventure along the way):Ā
Gordon Skagit Farms (Mount Vernon)
A Skagit Valley icon,Ā Gordon Skagit FarmsĀ is known for its incredible variety of pumpkins, hand-painted farm signs, and elaborate fall displays. Wander through their fields, snap a few family photos, and explore their artistic, Halloween-themed barn.Ā
Schuh Farms (Mount Vernon)
With its cheerful red barn and rolling pumpkin fields,Ā Schuh FarmsĀ offers hayrides, u-pick pumpkins, delicious homemade pies, and fresh apple cider. Itās a true fall wonderland for all ages.Ā
Tulip Town Harvest Festival (Mount Vernon)
Known for its spring tulips,Ā Tulip TownĀ transforms into an autumn festival in October, complete with pumpkins, local vendors, seasonal treats, and plenty of fall photo ops.Ā
Jones Creek Farms (Sedro-Woolley)
Perfect for families,Ā Jones Creek Farms offersĀ not only pumpkins but also u-pick apples and pears. Itās a wholesome day out with a true farm-to-table feel.Ā
Kristoferson Farm (Camano Island ā just south of Skagit)
While technically outside the valley, Kristoferson Farm is worth the short drive for its fall market, pumpkin patch, and stunning seasonal scenery.Ā
Spooktacular Pumpkin Carving IdeasĀ
Once youāve picked your perfect pumpkin, itās time to get creative!Ā
-
Classic Jack-oā-Lantern
āÆā The timeless toothy grin never fails to deliver Halloween charm.Ā
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Ghostly Designs
āÆā Paint or draw spooky faces for a quick, mess-free alternative to carving. Bonus: glow-in-the-dark paint isĀ amazing.Ā
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Playful Cat
āÆā Whiskers, pointy ears, and a mischievous grin for a whimsical touch.Ā
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Dragon Masterpiece
āÆā For the ambitious carver, a dragon willĀ wowāÆtrick-or-treaters.Ā
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Haunted House
āÆā Carve intricate windows, ghosts, and creepy trees, then light it with twinkle lights for extra effect.Ā
Halloween Happenings in Skagit ValleyĀ
Fall in Skagit Valley is filled with community spirit ā and Halloween takes it up a notch. Keep an eye out for:Ā
-
Mount Vernon Downtown Trick-or-Treat
āÆā Local businesses open their doors for family-friendly trick-or-treating.Ā
-
Anacortes Halloween Parade
āÆā A festive small-town parade with costumes, candy, and fun for all ages.Ā
-
Haunted Forest at Northern State Recreation Area
āÆā A spooky trail experience perfect for thrill-seekers.Ā
Whether youāre here for the pumpkin patches, the cozy farm vibes, or the eerie Halloween fun, Skagit Valley offers a little something for everyone this season. So, grab your scarf, your carving kit, and maybe a caramel apple or two ā and make this fall one to remember.Ā
Are you thinking about calling Skagit Valley home?āÆIād love to help you find your perfect place here ā just in time for next fallās pumpkināÆseason.
October 2025 – Local events to attend happening in Skagit Valley
#skagitvalleyrealtor #skagitvalley #mountvernonwarealestate #npsar #anacorteswa #movetoskagitvalley #ruralliving #mountvernonhomes #westernwa #washingtonrealtor #pnwrealestate #pnw #mountvernonhill #skagitcounty #skagitcountyproperties
A Local Look at the Western Washington Housing Market for August 2025
š From September to December, the market changesāand that can be a big win if youāre a buyer.
ā Less competition
ā Motivated sellers
ā More room to negotiate price, repairs, credits, and terms
This is your window to make a smart move before the holidays hit.
Thinking about buying before yearās end? Letās make a plan!
Staging Your Home Matters
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions arenāt just important; they are everything. Staging your home matters. In todayās market, buyers often scroll through dozens of listings online before ever stepping foot inside a home. That means your property needs to shine from the start of the home buyerās journey. Meaning in addition to staging your home, professional photography takes equal importance.Ā
Whether youāre working with a cozy condo or a sprawling estate, staging can make all the difference in how quickly your home sellsāand for how much.Ā
What Is Home Staging?
At its core, staging is the process of preparing your home to appeal to the broadest range of buyers. It involves arranging furniture, adding decor, and even adjusting lighting or paint colors to highlight the homeās best features and create a warm, welcoming vibe.Ā
Think of it as dressing your home for success. You wouldnāt go to a job interview without looking your bestāand neither should your home when itās trying to attract a buyer.Ā
Ā
Why Staging Works
ā Ā It Helps Buyers Visualize Living There
Most buyers donāt have the imagination to see beyond your personal photos or eclectic furniture choices. A well-staged home offers a clean, neutral canvas that helps buyers imagine their own lives unfolding in the home.Ā
ā Ā It Highlights the Homeās Potential
Staging draws attention to the best parts of your homeāwhether itās natural light, a spacious layout, or a cozy fireplaceāand minimizes distractions that might otherwise go unnoticed (think outdated fixtures or awkward room shapes).Ā
ā Ā It Increases Perceived Value
According to theĀ National Association of Realtors,Ā staged homes typically sell for 5ā10% moreĀ than non-staged homes. Thatās a serious return on a relatively small investment.Ā
ā Ā It Can Lead to Faster Offers
Homes that are staged spend less time on the market. That means fewer showings, less hassle, and potentially multiple offers in a shorter timeframe than the un-staged counterpart.Ā
Ā
Staging Doesnāt Have to Mean a Full Makeover
Worried that staging means hiring an interior designer and buying all new furniture? Donāt be. Staging can be as simple as:Ā
- Decluttering and depersonalizingĀ
- Rearranging existing furnitureĀ
- Adding fresh flowers or a pop of colorĀ
- Brightening up rooms with lighting and mirrorsĀ
- Refreshing tired walls with a neutral coat of paintĀ
Many real estate agents (including me!) offer staging consultationsĀ or access to professional stagers as part of their listing packageāso youāre not in it alone.Ā
Ā
Windermere Ready Program
Need help with staging, repairs, or cosmetic upgrades?Ā Ask meĀ about theĀ Windermere Ready program. It allows sellers to prepare their home for the market with expert guidance and the option ofĀ upfront fundingĀ for home improvement projectsāwithĀ no upfront cost.Ā Itās a game-changer for sellers who want to maximize their homeās value.Ā
Ā
Final Thoughts
In todayās visual-first world, staging isnāt just an added bonusāitās a smart strategy. The goal is simple: make buyers fall in love with your home from the moment they see it. With the right staging, your property can stand out, sell quicker, and command top dollar.Ā
Thinking of selling? Letās chat about how staging can set your home up for success. Connect with me here.
Photo as staged by: SavvyNess Interiors, Design & Build
Donāt Let Student Loans Hold You Back from Homeownership
Did you know? According to a recent study, 72% of people with student loans think their debt will delay their ability to buy a home. Maybe youāre one of them and you’re wondering:
- Do you have to wait until youāve paid off those loans before you can buy your first home?
- Or is it possible you could still qualify for a home loan even with that debt?
Having questions like these is normal, especially when youāre thinking about making such a big purchase. But you should know, you may be putting your homeownership goals on the backburner unnecessarily.
Can You Qualify for a Home Loan if You Have Student Loans?
In the simplest sense, what you want to know is can you still buy your first home if you have student debt. Hereās what Yahoo Finance says:
” . . . student loans donāt have to get in your way when it comes to becoming a homeowner. With the right approach and an understanding of how debt impacts your home-buying options, buying a house when you have student loans is possible.“
And the data backs this up. An annual report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), shows that 32% of first-time buyers had student loan debt (see graph below):
While everyoneās situation is unique, your goal may be more doable than you realize. Plenty of people with student loans have been able to qualify for and buy a home. Let that reassure you that it is still possible, even as a first-time buyer. And just in case itās helpful to know, the median student loan debt was $30,000. As an article from Chase says:
āItās important to note that student loans usually donāt affect your ability to qualify for a mortgage any differently than other types of debt you have on your credit report, such as credit card debt and auto loans.ā
If your income is steady and your overall finances are solid, homeownership can still be within reach. So, having student loans doesnāt necessarily mean you have to wait to buy a home.
Having student loans doesnāt mean buying a home is off the table. Before you count yourself out, talk to a lender to get a clearer picture of what you can afford and how close you are to taking the first step toward homeownership.
