Kari Haas is honored to partner with Caffe Ladro for the Nov/Dec 2019 Circle of Friends promotion!
Six times a year Kari Haas partners with a local business to bring her clients a free gift. For our winter 2019 promotion, Kari is bringing her clients a free 12oz beverage from ANY Caffe Ladro location!
About Caffe Ladro: Caffe Ladro first opened up shop in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood in 1994. It has since grown to include 16 locations from Everett down to West Seattle and over to Issaquah. Iti s known for its high quality, sustainably and ethically produced coffee and delicious baked goods.
One thing in particular that the Kari Haas team loves about Caffe Ladro is that each Caffe Ladro café was built to compliment the neighborhood in which it resides. As real estate agents, we appreciate the uniqueness of each Seattle neighborhood and help our clients find the neighborhood and home that compliments them most.
HASHTAG CONTEST
Post a picture or video of yourself with the Circle of Friends postcard on social media using the following hashtags and tag Kari Haas for you chance to win a $50 Amazon giftcard!
To redeem, bring the card you received in the mail fully intact to any Caffee Ladro location thru December 31. Three* locations have drive thru coffee windows!
Upper Queen Anne – 2205 Queen Anne Ave N, 98109
Lower Queen Anne – 600 Queen Anne Ave N, 98109
Pine Street – 801 Pine St, 98101
Union Street – 108 Union St, 98101
1800 Ninth – 1800 9th Ave, 98101
West Seattle – 7011 California Ave SW, 98136
Capitol Hill – 435 15th Ave E, 98112
In fall 2019, Kari Haas helped her clients sell for an average of 9% over list in an average of 5 days!
Fairview / South Lake Union – 400 Fairview Ave N, 98109
Fremont – 452 N 36th St, 98103
Ravenna – 1222 NE 65th St, Suite 103, 98115
*Bothell – 18610 Bothell Way NE, 98011
*Edmonds – 8403 Main St, 98026
*Lynnwood – 6314 196th St SW, 98036
While grabbing your coffee in Edmonds, visit our Premier listing: Dramatic Styling and Luxury Design | MLS 1534338
Kirkland – 104 Central Way, 98033
Kirkland Urban – 400 Urban Plaza, 98033
Bellevue – 333 108th Ave NE, 98004
Issaquah Highlands – 1200 10th Ave NE, 98029
Connect with Kari Haas at 206-719-2224 to learn how you can get on her Circle of Friends list AND to create a strategy to meet your real estate needs!
A steady influx of buyers continued to strain already tight inventory throughout the area in October. Home sales were up, as were prices in much of the region. With our thriving economy and highly desirable quality of life drawing ever more people here, the supply of homes isn’t close to meeting demand. Homeowners thinking about putting their property on the market can expect strong buyer interest.
EASTSIDE
As the Eastside continues to rack up “best places” awards, it’s no surprise that the area is booming. Development is on the rise, fueled primarily by the tech sector. The appeal of the Eastside has kept home prices here the highest of any segment of King County. The median single-family home price in October was stable as compared to the same time last year, rising 1% to $900,000.
Check out photos from our recent Luxury Real Estate Event!
On November 7th, guests had the opportunity to meet the builder of a brand new one-of-a-kind custom construction.
KING COUNTY
King County’s 1.74 months of available inventory is far below the national average of four months. Despite the slim selection, demand in October was strong. The number of closed sales was up 5% and the number of pending sales (offers accepted but not yet closed) was up 11%. The median price of a single-family home was down 2% over a year ago to $660,000. However, some areas around the more reasonably-priced south end of the county saw double-digit price increases.
In fall 2019, Kari helped her clients sell their homes for an average of 9% over list price in an average of 5 days.
Check out Kari’s Zillow reviews to learn more about how she goes above and beyond for her clients.
SEATTLE
Seattle home prices took their largest year-over-year jump in 12 months. The median price of a single-family home sold in October was up 3% from a year ago to $775,000, a $25,000 increase from September of this year. Seattle was recently named the third fastest-growing city in America. Real estate investment is surging. A growing population and booming economy continue to keep demand for housing –and home prices—strong.
Stay up to date with Kari’s current listings here!
SNOHOMISH COUNTY
Both the number of home sales and home prices were on the rise in Snohomish County in October. Overall homes sales increased 7%, and the median price of a single-family home rose 5% over a year ago to $495,000. Supply remains very low, with just six weeks of available inventory.
When: Thursday, November 7, 4-7pm. Special Presentation at 5:30pm
Come meet the builder and learn about the innovative design elements of this one-of-a-kind home! Dino of Alpha Construction will be available to answer questions and discuss use of materials and the thoughtful process behind building luxury homes. Enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres and fine beverages plus a builder-led tour and presentation of this gorgeous one-of-a-kind masterpiece by Alpha Construction.
RSVP
Please RSVP to the event by clicking here. An RSVP is not required to attend but we do hope you will let us know you are coming!
About the Home: Dramatic Styling & Luxury Design
One-of-a-kind custom Alpha Construction masterpiece! Soaring 25-foot ceilings and over-the-top chef’s kitchen with huge quartz island, European-style cabinets and expansive butler’s pantry. Exquisite living and dining areas open to outdoor living deck. Impressive indoor and outdoor gas fireplaces. Lavish master suite with private covered deck and spa-like bathroom featuring a relaxing vessel tub & huge shower. Spacious bedrooms with sumptuous en suite bathrooms and private patios. Thoughtfully designed throughout with under counter and motion activated lighting, stunning modern wine bar, tankless water heater, in-floor radiant heat plus room for all your toys in the 4-car garage! Private and quiet with RV parking and a low-maintenance yard. This incredible estate home is set in a sought-after neighborhood blocks from SW County Park and close to everything you want and need in Edmonds and the surrounding area. Live the good life!
Highlights:
4 bed / 5 bath
3,932 sf / 15,190 sf lot
380 sf of covered outdoor living space
1,200 sf 4-car garage with tons of storage
Distinctive and tastefully appointed custom new construction
Stunning extra thick 3-sided quartz island
Chic under cabinet and motion activated lighting throughout
Opulent living spaces and optimum functionality. Luxury living at its best!
Stay Connected
Make sure you are up to date with everything Kari Haas is doing by connecting on social media:
Kari Haas to Appear on “Coffee with a Superstar” Hosted by Tina Mitchell
Tune in to hear about the secrets of Kari’s success!
SEATTLE, WA. October 3 — You are invited to tune in to the next “Coffee with a Superstar” Facebook Live interview with industry leader, Kari Haas of Windermere Real Estate.
Your host, Tina Michell will have the opportunity to share the inside scoop on Kari’s success and how she does it. This is an opportunity for you to hear from the “best of the best” in the real estate space.
Do you want to take your business and life to the next level? If you do, tune in on Monday, October 7th from 11:00 – 11:30AM (PT).
Some of the questions you can look forward to Tina asking Kari Haas during this interview include:
What do you attribute your success to in 2018?
What was your biggest challenge last year and how did you overcome it?
What is your best marketing tip?
How can the agents listening today take their business to the next level?
Kari Haas has also appeared on Tina Mitchell’s show, The Money Hour on 1150 AM KKNW. In December 2018, Kari discussed Strategies for Success in Today’s Market. Check it out here!
Stay up to date with everything Kari Haas is up to by connecting with her on social media:
Every other month Kari Haas partners with a local business to bring her clients a free gift. This month the Kari Haas team is honored to partner with Nothing Bundt Cakes! Nothing Bundt Cakes is a chain of bakeries with home-kitchen roots offering delicious cakes with real, high quality ingredients. Clients of Kari Haas received a card in the mail providing them the opportunity to receive a FREE individual-sized Bundtlet! To redeem, bring the card you received in the mail fully intact to either the Mill Creek or Issaquah locations thru November 15th.
*This picture will not be accepted for redemption. You must have the original card with front-and-and-back printing
Get on the list for these awesome gifts today! Connect with Kari Haas at 206-719-2224.
Recent past partnerships include Dingfelder’s Delicatessen, Einstein Bros Bagels, Great Harvest Bakery and YAYMAKER SEATTLE. If you did not yet redeem your free creative class, YAYMAKER is still accepting your promotional cards for redemption!
Thank you all for your continued support!
Kari Haas is offering the chance to win a $50 Amazon giftcard when you review the team on 4 of the following platforms:
A decrease in inventory coupled with an increase in sales activity led to fewer options for home shoppers in August. There is some good news for would-be buyers as mortgage rates have dropped to their lowest level in three years. Demand remains high but there simply aren’t enough homes on the market. Brokers are hoping to see the traditional seasonal influx of new inventory as we move forward.
Buyers need the top negotiator on their side, and that is Kari Haas.
Kari Haas won 100% of the time
when representing buyers in multiple offer situations in 2019!
Click here to check out Kari’s 36 five-star Zillow reviews!
EASTSIDE
The median price of a single-family home on the Eastside was $935,000 in August, unchanged from a year ago and up slightly from $925,000 in July. New commercial and residential construction projects are in the works. Strong demand for downtown condos has prompted plans for yet another high-rise tower to break ground next year.
Home prices in King County were flat in August. The median price of a single-family home was $670,000, virtually unchanged from a year ago, and down just one percent from July. Southeast King County, which has some of the most reasonable housing values in the area, saw prices increase 9% over last year. Inventory remains very low. Year-over-year statistics show the volume of new listings dropped 18.5% in King County.
Ready to look for your dream home? Start searching here!
SEATTLE
Homes sales were up 12% in Seattle for August, putting additional pressure on already slim inventory. There is just over six weeks of available supply. There are signs that prices here are stabilizing as the median home price of $760,000 was unchanged from a year ago and up less than one percent from July. With its booming economy, demand here is expected to stay strong.
Buyers looking for more affordable options outside of King County pushed pending sales, mutually accepted offers, up nearly 16% over a year ago. Home prices have softened slightly. The median price of a single-family home in August was $490,000, down slightly from the median of $492,225 the same time last year.
Buying a fixer-upper isn’t for the faint of heart. However, for many first-time home buyers, it’s the ideal way to get into the market. Before jumping into it, make sure you’re familiar with the buying process and what to expect when renovating. These tips will help you get prepared to take on your fixer-upper project the right way.
What to Expect When Buying
The average sale price for a home in Bellevue is $945,000, but a fixer-upper can often be purchased for less. When you start searching for fixer-upper properties in your area, keep these key points in mind:
Budgeting Basics: Your budget needs to factor in the cost of repairs along with the potential resale price once the home is all fixed up. You don’t want to offer more than you can expect to recoup when selling. It’s also crucial to consider how you will fund the renovations. Apartment Therapy recommends looking into renovation loans, which could help you finance the renovations and home purchase with a single mortgage.
Kari Haas team member Darren Costa is a mortgage industry expert, including Limited 203(k) loan programs. Darren and the rest of the team will help guide you along the right path for your project!
Choose Projects Wisely: When looking at potential properties for your fixer-upper, it’s important to assess how much of what you will need to do is cosmetic and how much is structural. Cosmetic changes will be least costly, whereas larger structural issues can add up quickly. Getting a home inspection is essential to making sure you know what to expect, and this will help you determine whether your renovations are likely to pay off. The national average cost of hiring a home inspector is $244 – $421. In the greater Seattle area, the price can range from $300-$600.
How to Tackle the Project
Buying a house that needs to be overhauled can be overwhelming. Avoid getting bogged down in frustration by creating a list of everything you want or need to do and then prioritizing projects.
The Kari Haas team is experienced in contracting and construction. Whatever your goals are, the Kari Haas team will be your best sounding board to help you make sure you’re set up for success.
Be Prepared With the Right Tools: The most cost effective way to tackle a fixer-upper is to do the work yourself. Even if you’re starting from scratch, it will be well worth investing in the right power tools. Consult a list of essential tools for DIY, such as this one from Fine Homebuilding. A few essentials include a drill, sander, and jigsaw, along with a basic toolbox and ladder.
Start With Structural Changes: If you need to make any structural changes or the exterior needs work, prioritize those projects first. Otherwise, you may end up undoing some of the cosmetic work you’ve done inside.
What Makes the Most Sense? Even if you have projects that you really want to put on the top of your list, focus on what makes the most sense to do first. You may be tempted to rip down some particularly ugly wallpaper, but if you’re planning on moving furniture in and living there through construction, it may make the most sense to install flooring first.
Make Your Space Livable: Along the same lines, prioritize one or two projects that are necessary to make your home livable. If you don’t want to live on takeout, that might mean a kitchen renovation comes first.
Stay or Sell?
After all the work is done, how do you know if selling is the way to go? If you have kept costs low by doing a good bit of the work yourself, you have a greater chance of being able to sell for a profit. Then you have the question of whether your fixer-upper makes enough money to buy a home you want to live in. Or maybe it would make a great vacation rental for long-term income! You may also fall in love with your “new” home and decide you want to stay. When someone buys a house to flip, they typically renovate to appeal to a wide range of buyers rather than to their own tastes, so think about your end goal.
You don’t have to figure everything out beforehand, but you don’t want to go into this process blindly either. Be sure to do your research and work with an experienced real estate agent who can guide you. If you’re up for the task, buying a fixer-upper has rewards that you will enjoy for years to come, whether you decide to flip or end up with your dream home.
Call Kari Haas TODAY to get started on your project, or just brainstorm!
This post was originally submitted by Erin Reynolds and has been edited by the Kari Haas Team. Erin Reynolds is the creator of DIYMama.net, which provides resources to help others with home improvement projects and repairs.
The real estate market continued to moderate in July. Inventory rose and home values softened, providing buyers with increased selection and more favorable pricing. With strong job growth and interest rates holding at below 4 percent, brokers expect the market to remain solid through fall.
EASTSIDE
The market remains strong on the Eastside. The current tech boom continues to fuel demand, buoyed by Google’s recent plans to build out another office in Kirkland. An increase in inventory gives buyers more time to find the right home for their budget. The median price of a single-family home on the Eastside was $925,000 in July, down 2 percent from the same time last year.
Home prices in King County continued to ease. Buyers took advantage of lower prices and new inventory to boost home sales in July. The median price of a single-family home was $680,000, a 3 percent decline from the same time last year. More moderately-priced areas in the south end of the county saw continued price growth.
It’s no surprise that Seattle is the top city in the country where millennials are moving. Apple plans to add 2,000 jobs in Seattle. The first of 4,500 Expedia employees will start moving into Interbay soon. While demand here is expected to stay strong, prices continue to cool. The median price of a single-family home was $755,000, down 6 percent from a year ago and a decrease of 3 percent from June. Southeast Seattle, which generally has more affordable homes, saw the median home price rise 9 percent over the same time last year.
Inventory remains very tight in Snohomish County. The number of listings on the market were up 6 percent over last year, and the county has only six weeks of available supply – far short of the four to six months that is considered balanced. The median price of a single-family home in July was $502,000 – up slightly from the median of $495,000 a year ago.
The following analysis of the Western Washington real estate market is provided by Windermere Real Estate Chief Economist Matthew Gardner. We hope that this information may assist you with making better-informed real estate decisions. For further information about the housing market in your area, please don’t hesitate to contact Kari Haas at 206-719-2224.
Economic Overview
Washington State employment jumped back up to an annual growth rate of 2.4% following a disappointing slowdown earlier in the spring. As stated in the first quarter Gardner Report, the dismal numbers earlier this year were a function of the state re-benchmarking its data (which they do annually).
The state unemployment rate was 4.7%, marginally up from 4.5% a year ago. My current economic forecast suggests that statewide job growth in 2019 will rise by 2.6%, with a total of 87,500 new jobs created.
Home Sales Activity
There were 22,281 home sales during the second quarter of 2019, representing a drop of 4.8% from the same period in 2018. On a more positive note, sales jumped 67.6% compared to the first quarter of this year.
Since the middle of last year, there has been a rapid rise in the number of homes for sale, which is likely the reason sales have slowed. More choice means buyers can be more selective and take their time when choosing a home to buy.
Compared to the second quarter of 2018, there were fewer sales in all counties except Whatcom and Lewis. The greatest declines were in Clallam, San Juan, and Jefferson counties.
Listings rose 19% compared to the second quarter of 2018, but there are still a number of very tight markets where inventory levels are lower than a year ago. Generally, these are the smaller — and more affordable — markets, which suggests that affordability remains an issue.
Connect with Kari Haas on Twitter to see market stats updates as soon as they come out!
Home Prices
Year-over-year price growth in Western Washington continues to taper. The average home price during second quarter was $540,781, which is 2.8% higher than a year ago. When compared to first quarter of this year, prices were up 12%.
Home prices were higher in every county except King, which is unsurprising given the cost of homes in that area. Even though King County is home to the majority of jobs in the region, housing is out of reach for many and I anticipate that this will continue to act as a drag on price growth.
When compared to the same period a year ago, price growth was strongest in Lewis County, where home prices were up 15.9%. Double-digit price increases were also seen in Mason, Cowlitz, Grays Harbor, and Skagit counties.
The region’s economy remains robust, which should be a positive influence on price growth. That said, affordability issues are pervasive and will act as a headwind through the balance of the year, especially in those markets that are close to job centers. This will likely force some buyers to look further afield when searching for a new home.
The average number of days it took to sell a home matched the second quarter of 2018.
Snohomish County was the tightest market in Western Washington, with homes taking an average of only 21 days to sell. There were five counties where the length of time it took to sell a home dropped compared to the same period a year ago. Market time rose in eight counties and two were unchanged.
Across the entire region, it took an average of 41 days to sell a home in the second quarter of 2019. This was the same as a year ago but is down 20 days compared to the first quarter of 2019.
As stated above, days-on-market dropped as we moved through the spring, but all markets are not equal. I suggest that this is not too much of an issue and that well-priced homes will continue to attract attention and sell fairly rapidly.
Conclusions
This speedometer reflects the state of the region’s real estate market using housing inventory, price gains, home sales, interest rates, and larger economic factors. I am leaving the needle in the same position as the first quarter as demand appears to still be strong.
The market has benefitted from a fairly significant drop in mortgage rates. With average 30-year fixed rates still below 4%, I expect buyers who have been sitting on the fence will become more active, especially given that they have more homes to choose from.
As Chief Economist for Windermere Real Estate, Matthew Gardner is responsible for analyzing and interpreting economic data and its impact on the real estate market on both a local and national level. Matthew has over 30 years of professional experience both in the U.S. and U.K.
In addition to his day-to-day responsibilities, Matthew sits on the Washington State Governors Council of Economic Advisors; chairs the Board of Trustees at the Washington Center for Real Estate Research at the University of Washington; and is an Advisory Board Member at the Runstad Center for Real Estate Studies at the University of Washington where he also lectures in real estate economics.
Seattle has many fantastic neighborhoods. You’ve probably heard of Ballard, Queen Anne or Capitol Hill, to name a few. As these long-standing popular neighborhoods continue to increase in density, it is time to turn our attention to up-and-coming areas blossoming with fantastic restaurants and shops. Rainier Valley is on the top of our list!
For Sale: Fantastic Townhome
Located in south Seattle, Rainier Valley is a hub of excitement growing in conjunction with the communities of Columbia City, Hillman City, Brighton and Beacon Hill. Filled with independent, small and minority-owned businesses, great services and lots of activities, Rainier Valley is the place to be.
We created this handy guide to help you get started on exploring all that Rainier Valley has to offer. After hitting all the spots, we are sure you’ll fall in love with the are and want to move in!
THE NEIGHBORS
Columbia City
Columbia City is a historic landmark district in South Seattle, known for its international mix of restaurants and cafes, live music venues, Ark Lodge Cinema, and locally-owned shops and businesses. In the 1890’s, Columbia City was the last stop on the trolley line from downtown Seattle. Now, it is at the heart of the Light Rail line, 15 minutes from Sea-Tac Airport and 11 minutes to Downtown – Columbia City Business Association
Photo Credit – Columbia City Business Association Facebook
Hillman City
A community of collaborators, Hillman City is always abuzz with neighborhood gatherings and new businesses popping up. From breweries to co-working spaces, Hillman City is a wonderful area to relax and be yourself.
Brighton
Brighton is a primarily residential neighborhood in the Rainier Valley district. It is just south of the Hillman City neighborhood and about a mile and a half south of the Columbia City neighborhood and retail district. It was reportedly named “Brighton Beach” after the English resort city of Brighton in East Sussex.
Beacon Hill
Beacon Hill is a giant, pea pod-shaped neighborhood in south Seattle that is booming with new development. Beacon Hill offers residents – many families and young professionals – an urban feel without being too close to the hustle and bustle with lots of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks.
FOOD
Geraldine’s Counter
People come from far and wide to stand in line outside of Geraldine’s. It is continuously voted one Seattle’s top breakfast and brunch destinations – and it is right here in the heart of Rainier Valley! Located on a busy corner in Columbia City, Geraldine’s supports customers from far and wide with Americana comfort food.
Empire Espresso
Empire Espresso is a cozy Columbia City gem that manages to feel both bustling and calm enough for reading or working. The staff are known for their seasonal latte art, so every frothy cup — from traditional to matcha to cayenne — ought to feature something Instagram-worthy. And the snacks include crispy waffles (including vegan and gluten-free versions), killer paninis, and hearty hummus plates. – Eater Seattle
Amy’s Merkato
Photo Credit – Amy’s Merkato Facebook
Established in 1992 by Amy herself and now owned by Judy and Filli, Amy’s Merkato is a restaurant, deli, and café AND, of course, is also Seattle’s first Ethiopian Market. The Google reviews and Globalist praise are enough for you to be sure Amy’s Merkato is the city’s best Ethiopian restaurant.
NW Peaks Brewery
If you didn’t believe us before, you need not worry any longer. NW Peaks Brewery, a stable of the hip Ballard community, has opened its doors in Rainier Valley’s Hillman City! It features unique beers and specialty casks for special occasions. Both tap rooms are open 7 days a week and are family friendly
Pizzeria con Cucina
It began as an idea back in 2004 inspired by a trip to Italy and stoked by some life experiences in Washington DC. After the owners moved back to the beloved Pacific Northwest, hosted several backyard fundraising parties, found investors, secured a location and undertook six months of building, the doors of Pizzeria con Cucina opened in Beacon Hill on July 15th, 2011.
SHOPPING
Third Place Books
Third Place Seward Park is a general-interest bookstore featuring new and used books with a used-book buying counter open seven days a week. It opened its doors in May of 2016 in the Seward Park neighborhood of south Seattle. It provides a gathering space for its community by hosting over 200 events a year! – Third Place Books
Photo Credit – Jacob Willard Home Facebook
Jacob Willard Home
Family-owned vintage furniture shop Jacob Willard Home operated online before opening its Hillman City showroom. In addition to a wide variety of restored midcentury furniture, it sells a selection of collectibles and LPs—and offers upholstery and refinishing services. Open Tuesday-Saturday, you can swing by the shop while you’re on your way home from work, the farmers market or a stroll! – Curbed Seattle
Hello Bicycle
In the winter of 2008, Hello Bicycle was founded with the mission to bring Beacon Hill a bicycle shop that could meet the needs of the diverse ridership in the area. Sam took ownership in 2018 and continues to help, educate, and encourage riders from all skill levels and background. Hello Bicycle approaches every encounter with the highest level of customer experience and detail oriented bicycle repair.
Southcenter
Okay, so it is not in Rainier Valley per say, but Southcenter is a fantastic area and shopping mall that is super close to Rainier Valley. There you will find everything you need from Target to iFly Indoor Skydiving and beyond!
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Photo Credit – Rocket CrossFit
Rocket CrossFit
Rocket is owned by husband and wife duo Brady and Alyssa. It was started in 2011 by Brady, who had a vision about creating community through fitness. “We are pretty sure we’ve got the best trainers in the city, and our incredible members deserve no less. We are the place where you can set aside all of your fears and insecurities while you find strength you didn’t know you had, cheered on by a remarkably diverse group of people who are doing the same thing.” – Rocket Crossfit
Tina’s Hair & Nail Salon
With top ratings on Yelp, Nextdoor and more, the community members of south Seattle and Rainier Valley LOVE Tina’s Hair & Nails Salon. They basically describe Tina and her staff as beauty wizards. It is quite possibly the most beloved hair/nail salon in Seattle. You be the judge!
PARKS
Photo Credit – City of Seattle
Kubota Gardens
The greater Seattle area has oh so many parks including the magical Kubota Gardens. It is a stunning 20-acre landscape blending Japanese garden concepts with native Northwest plants. Since 1987 it has been owned by the city and is an historical landmark. Visit the park to enjoy the beautiful landscaping or join in one of its many year-round events!
Seward Park
Just over the hill is one of the most peaceful parks Seattle has to offer. Named for William H. Seward, the Secretary of State who was responsible for America’s purchase of Alaska in 1867, Seward Park boasts 300 acres of something for everyone. It is home to eagles’ nests, forest land, old growth forest, a 2.4 mile bike and walking path, an amphitheater, a native plant garden, an art studio, a playground, shoreline, beaches and more.
SEASONAL
Columbia City Farmers Market
Seattle has a vibrant farmers market scene. The Columbia City Farmers Market, which began in 1998, is a beautiful gathering point for local farmers and community members to come together. Small farmers come in person to sell their food products to neighborhood residents while also providing education about their farm products and the importance of supporting and preserving local farmland. Check it out every Wednesday from May – October!
Photo Credit – BeatWalk
HONK! Fest West
HONK! Fest West is a free, non-profit, community music festival driven by the energetic performance of street bands in public spaces. Completely volunteer-planned and organized, HONK! festivals are a part of a global renaissance of community street band culture. For three days in Seattle area parks and streets, 25+ bands deliver music and celebration that is accessible to all. – HONK! Fest West
BeatWalk
For over 25 years, BeatWalk has brought incredible live music to the heart of Columbia City! Thanks to our generous sponsors, Beatwalk remains FREE for all ages! BeatWalk always features a great line-up of first-rate, local musicians hosted by neighborhood businesses for audiences of all ages. Since 1995 BeatWalk has brought music lovers together for a fun and safe night out on the town. – BeatWalk
SERVICES
Light Rail
Photo Credit – Kari Haas
The whole of Rainier Valley is conveniently situated along Sound Transit’s light rail including the new Othello Corridor. With numerous stops in the area, the whole city is at your fingertips! Such easy access makes Rainier Valley an excellent place to live.
Kari Haas – Windermere
After just 6 years in the industry, Kari Haas has risen to a top producer in her office of over 100 agents for the past 2 years in a row! Make sure to check out all the reviews she has on Zillow. If you or your friends are looking to buy or sell in the area, she’s the one you want.
Utilities
There is nothing more satisfying than easy access to your utilities. For that reason, we have all that info for you right here!
Cable, Internet & Phone: Comcast 800-934-6489; Wave 855-971-1252
Electricity, Garbage, Sewer & Water: Seattle Public Utilities/Seattle City Light 206-684-3000