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Tips for Buying an Equestrian Property from Our Advisor
If you love horses and want to purchase an equestrian property, there are many aspects to consider. First-time buyers are often eager yet unaware of some of the challenges that may come with a particular property. That’s why we’re providing insights from our local Equestrian Advisor and Realtor, Liz Bailey. We’re proud to have Liz’s expertise in our Windermere Poulsbo office where she works with home buyers and sellers across Kitsap County. Liz is uniquely qualified to assist clients with equestrian properties since she’s done so for years and has extensive experience riding, owning, breeding, and boarding horses.
Here are some of her helpful tips and insights.
Questions to Ask Yourself
1. How much land do you need?
When considering an equestrian property, check local livestock regulations. Most municipalities have limits on the number of livestock per acre. Make sure your plans include enough land to support the number of animals you hope to have. Look for land that’s flat or a bit sloped with room for turnout and proper forage for grazing. Avoid properties that have a lot of unusable land such as those that are heavily forested, have deep gullies, steep slopes, or wetlands.
2. Have you considered your homeowner’s insurance?
Many insurance companies limit coverage for horses, even for personal use. If you plan to board horses, you may need commercial coverage, so plan ahead.
3. Are you hoping to build or add on to the facilities already on the land?
Don’t forget to check well and septic locations. You will need permits to build, and setbacks from water sources, dwellings, and drain fields are mandatory.
4. Did you inspect the barn and stables?
During the inspection, don’t forget to have the barn and stables examined too. It may cost more but it’s worth it. From potential electrical issues to structural hazards, a professional can warn you about any possible problems up front.
5. Have you made parking a priority?
“My personal pet peeve is no access for a truck and trailer or limited access for your farrier or veterinarian,” Liz says. Be sure to ask whether the property you are considering will allow plenty of easy access for vehicle traffic.
Look for these Equestrian Amenities
When touring a property, Liz suggests examining it closely and seeing if it has the convenient features listed below. These amenities will make it much easier to house horses and livestock on your property.
- A source of water in each stall
- Plentiful frost-proof spigots in the barn, arenas, and pastures or turnouts
- Sufficient covered storage for hay, grain and bedding
- Wash bay/tack stall
- Tack room with saddle racks, bridle racks, blanket hooks, and room for tack trunks, medications, and more
- Storage for tractors, wheelbarrows, brooms, etc.
- Arena or round pen for riding
- Adequate lighting
- Horse-safe fencing
And, Liz adds, “Whatever you do, don’t forget the poo! Manure storage and disposal is a big concern for many. Local agricultural departments may be able to help with planning for proper composting and disposal of manure.”
Your Daily Routine Matters
Consider your daily routine when examining equestrian properties. As Liz says, “Addressing your horse’s safety and comfort is a priority, but it doesn’t mean neglecting your own.” Is the location of the home convenient or is it too close to the barn for comfort? Can you get to the barn quickly in case of an emergency? Will it be convenient during daily chores and during winter weather? Where is the main water source and the electrical panel? A thoughtful setup and careful planning will make adapting to your new property while pursuing your passion a true pleasure!
For more information, check out Liz Bailey’s website or contact her.
Our Home Inspection Checklist
Knowing what to look for in a home inspection is essential. In short, home inspections are when you hire a professional to inspect a property for any potential issues. If you’re a first-time buyer, you probably have questions about this process and we’re here to guide you.
Why Do a Home Inspection?
As a buyer, it’s typical to submit an offer contingent on a home inspection. Being cautious during the buying process is a plus. The last thing you want is to find major issues with your home after you’ve purchased it. A professional home inspector will be able to catch things that you may not have thought about or examined.
A Typical Home Inspection
A standard home inspection for a single-family home will usually take 2-4 hours. However, the length of time is heavily dependent on the size of the home. After the inspector finishes, they will send the client a report. Usually, the report will come with their findings, pictures, analysis, and recommendations.
Although the cost of home inspections can vary greatly by city and state, in Washington, the typical cost of a home inspection is around $400 – $600 for single-family homes. According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, a standard home inspection will cover:
- Heating and cooling systems
- Plumbing system
- Electrical
- Roof, attic, and visible insulation
- Walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors
- Foundation, basement, and other structural components
- Possible cracks in cement, indications of wood rot or water leakage
Hiring a professional, reliable home inspector is imperative. You can collect referrals from family and friends, and your local real estate agent should also have some names of inspectors they know and trust. Once you’ve found someone, you’ll be able to discuss the areas listed above after they’ve concluded their inspection.
Tips for Home Inspection Day
Here are some tips to ensure success when the home you hope to own is inspected.
- When possible, attend the home inspection so that you can see any damage yourself and ask questions.
- While you will get a detailed report, having an in-depth discussion with the home inspector before receiving the report will give you a better understanding of any current or potential issues.
- Every house has flaws but try to focus on what repairs must be done and if there are any dealbreakers for you.
- A good inspector will walk you through their findings with a thorough report. It may be long and seem overwhelming but understand that they are supposed to document every single issue, no matter how small.
- Your inspector and your agent will be able to help you distinguish which issues are hazardous, time-sensitive, costly, and/or red flags. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions you may have. Utilize their expertise.
Once you have all of the information in front of you, weigh the costs of potential and needed repairs and discuss worst-case scenarios. That way, if you proceed with purchasing the home, you are fully aware of what issues you may need to address right away and down the road. Of course, surprise costs can still come up when it comes to home repairs, but at least you’re able to gather as much information as possible through a detailed inspection.
For more information about the home buying process, check out our Guide to Buying a Home (PDF).
12 Kitsap Farms to Visit
City proximity is one of the many benefits of living in Kitsap County, but during the summer months, rural life can really steal the show. Here are some local farms that offer U-pick flowers, farm stands, and opportunities to visit and interact with animals.
Farm Animal Fun
Photo by The Smithshyre.
Bushel & Barrel in Poulsbo
Although Bushel & Barrel is known for its beverages, this cidery is also a great place to play with baby goats! They have different types of events on their calendar that allow interactions with their animals on a regular basis. One example: goat yoga on Sundays!
Price: Pints for $6; events starting at $25
Courter Country Farm in Poulsbo
Open seasonally from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM for U-pick veggies and animal visits, Courter County Farm is a “destination” farm. They’re a fun option for birthday parties, weddings, and even Airbnb stays. Located off of Central Valley Road near Poulsbo, they sell produce, poultry, flowers, and eggs. Enjoy spending time with their cute animals including rabbits and goats.
Laeradr Farms in Poulsbo
You can make an appointment to snuggle baby goats at this farm and feed their alpacas and sheep. They offer open farm days and private farm tours. You can also book small events such as birthday parties. Fun fact: all of their sheep are named after Star Wars characters!
Price: $15 for a 30-minute appointment or $180 for a 2-hour private party
Sapphire Meadowbrook Farms in Olalla
This Olalla farm is currently offering farm visits (petting-zoo style) by appointment. Contact them to schedule a private mobile petting zoo for your event, or host a party at their farm. They have goats, turkeys, ducks, chickens, pigs, and dogs. Additionally, they sell eggs, goat cheese, and soap.
Price: Varies by event
Sawdust Hill Alpaca Farm in Poulsbo
This farm off of Port Gamble Road raises alpacas and llamas. Additionally, they sell yarn, free-range eggs, and other goods as well as alpaca toys and apparel. Currently, they are doing tours by reservation only with limited contact with animals. But you can still visit the farm and learn all about alpacas and meet their Great Pyrenees dog.
Price: $7.50 per person for tours
The Smithshyre in Poulsbo
A homestead by self-definition, The Smithshyre grows food to self-sustain and offers tours to learn about homesteading practices. They are the home of Kitsap Goat Yoga, and they offer baby goat snuggle sessions. Also, you can book private events there.
Price: $35 for Goat Yoga; $65 for Private Tour; $300 for Private Goat Yoga for 8
Produce and Flowers
Photo by Fat Turnip Farms.
Butler Green Farms on Bainbridge Island
A Bainbridge Island favorite since 1984, Butler Green Farms’ growing practices are biodiverse and they proudly offer pesticide-free veggies and humanely-raised meats and eggs. Seasonal bouquets are available for purchase at their Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm stand, the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market, and also for special occasions upon request. Current CSA members and those interested in joining can visit their farmstand. They can also be found at select local retailers.
Fat Turnip Farms in Kingston
Tucked away in Eglon, Fat Turnip is a WSDA certified organic farm with various types of produce. But their real showstopper is their annual Pumpkin Patch. They also offer U-Pick bouquets for only $5.00. You can find their produce on Kitsap Fresh, or pay a visit to their cute location for roadside sales. Mark your calendar to visit them again in October for fall harvest fun.
Petal and Pitchfork in Poulsbo
This lush oasis, located between Poulsbo and Keyport on Sherman Hill Road, has a flower CSA and offers U-pick flowers, which is currently by appointment only due to COVID-19. Also, they sell produce. In non-pandemic times, they host pop-up markets. Interesting additional info: Petal & Pitchfork is owned by Kelsey and Stacy Marshall who own Grounds for Change and helped create Owen’s Playground, an inclusive, barrier-free playground on Bainbridge Island.
Suyematsu Farms on Bainbridge Island
Located off Day Road on Bainbridge Island, Suyematsu offers different things in different seasons. In spring and early summer, they have U-pick berries. In late summer, they have flowers, and in the fall, they have great pumpkins and gourds. Check their Facebook page for current offerings.
Take Your Pick: U-Cut Flowers in Bremerton
Visit this flower garden with a cause. Their mission is to help Kitsap County’s homeless community by cutting flowers. All proceeds are donated to shelters benefiting women and children. They have a roadside flower stand open on Wednesdays and offer U-cut bouquets on Saturdays.
Yoked Farmhouse & Brewery in Port Orchard
Yoked is a farm-to-table brewery, growing their own ingredients for unique brews. They offer produce, eggs, and flowers for sale. Also, they host many family-friendly events like themed food cook-offs, science Saturdays, pickling classes, and yoga.
Kitsap Community Foundation’s Important Scholarship Program
Kitsap County is full of amazing nonprofits that improve and enrich our community in a variety of ways. For this edition of our Community Spotlight series, we’re shining a light on the Kitsap Community Foundation (KCF) and its scholarship program. Kitsap Community Foundation strives to “connect people who care with causes that matter”, facilitating and supporting philanthropy throughout Kitsap and North Mason Counties.
Kitsap Community Foundation’s Scholarships
Individual donors, families, companies, and civic organizations establish KCF’s scholarships. The Foundation functions as the manager of the funds and the administrator for receiving applications, awarding scholarships, and managing the monies.
One of our Brokers, Karen Keefe, is a Scholarship Manager for KCF. Wearing multiple hats, Karen works as a KCF Administrator and Fund Manager. She also manages the administrative processes and markets scholarship information to the community and students. Additionally, Karen was a KCF Fund Advisor and Trustee for over 20 years. “Karen’s work supports the many named scholarships that the Kitsap Community Foundation administers on behalf of our donors,” says KCF’s President and CEO, Geoff Ball.
Our Q&A with Scholarship Manager Karen Keefe
We connected with Karen to learn more about her role and KCF’s scholarship program.
Can you describe the scholarships managed through KCF and what your job entails?
Currently, KCF manages fourteen scholarship funds. The scholarships are offered online at the Washington state-run website www.Washboard.org. In late winter and early spring, many eager students start sending in their applications. My job is to preview all applications for completeness and support the selection committees with the evaluation and award processes. Additionally, I am a fund manager of a scholarship program I have managed for 20 years created by an individual. Some donors manage KCF scholarships themselves and I can support them.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
It is knowing that I am helping someone’s educational dreams come true. Getting a letter or note from one of our scholarship recipients about their new life story and how appreciative they are of our work is rewarding.
For over 20 years you were a Fund Advisor and Trustee working with students in need of scholarships. Is there a story that stands out?
There are many stories from many students. I am moved every time I read the students’ essays, which is just a snippet of their lives. I feel honored to be part of fulfilling their needs.
What drew you to this type of work?
Participating in civic organizations helps us create the communities we want to live in. Education is vitally important as a long-term investment in our community and for students who need financial support. These scholarships help them continue the education they might not otherwise receive.
I was honored to be selected to carry on the legacy of the family whose scholarship I manage. Then, three years ago when I was offered a position at KCF, I couldn’t pass it up. It gave me an opportunity to use my experience to administer thirteen other funds – which can be very challenging at times – but expands what can be accomplished. Plus, there is something very fun about working as a team with others that share that vision. It makes going to work a joy. The ultimate way to help others is to help students achieve their goals. It’s a lot like real estate for me…Helping other people with their dreams.
Kitsap Community Foundation’s Impact
Not only does the Foundation help local students achieve their educational goals, it also works hard to strengthen our community in many ways. Thanks to KCF’s donors/investors, “more than $6.5M in grants, contributions, and scholarships have been made through the Foundation since 1999.” Hundreds of local nonprofits benefit from the Foundation’s efforts. “Working with more than 350 nonprofits organizations of varying sizes, each spring we conduct the Kitsap Great Give, a day of giving,” says KCF’s President and CEO, Geoff Ball. This year alone, Kitsap Great Give raised $2,186,901.
Additionally, KCF builds grant-making endowments through its donor/investor program, teaches nonprofits, and works to address poverty. Kitsap Strong is another example of the Foundation’s impact. It’s a community initiative in which KCF, Kitsap Public Health District, United Way, and the Suquamish Tribe work together to “prevent and overcome childhood trauma”. They do so by “building a culture of empathy, equity, and connection”. Over 100 organizations are involved in Kitsap Strong and over 370,000 people have benefitted.
How You Can Get Involved
If you’d like to invest in our community through the Foundation, you can become a donor. KCF works directly with donors and professional advisors to create specific giving plans. It’s a tax-efficient way to directly make an impact and create a legacy of giving. You can view their donor services to see which option suits you.
If you work with or manage a local nonprofit, check out the nonprofit services KCF offers, including grants, nonprofit training, and the opportunity for your organization to participate in next year’s Kitsap Great Give.
The Foundation also relies on volunteers who help at fundraising events, serve on the Board of Directors, and evaluate grant proposals. KCF trains volunteer grant evaluators who offer perspectives on local needs and share their objective findings of how grant proposals fit with the Foundation’s funding objectives. If you’d like to become a grant evaluator, you can contact Funds & Grants Officer, Shaine Schramling at shaine@kitsapfoundation.org or 360-698-3622.
Second Quarter Market Review for North Kitsap
Our North Kitsap market performed even better than expected during our second quarter. We’ve compiled key highlights so that you can easily stay informed about our local real estate market.
Our Strong Seller’s Market
North Kitsap’s inventory remains low and demand remains high. Many people are continuing to move out of bigger cities in part due to the remote working culture. There are still many eager buyers and fewer sellers. Our Brokers continue to experience situations where some buyers are outbid either by price or by an all-cash offer in this competitive market.
If you look at the last five quarters detailed in the graph below, you can see that growth trends in volume continue to rise, even when comparing 2020’s second quarter to 2021’s second quarter. And, our market is definitely heating up this summer.
We’re continuing to see even higher prices. As you can see below, the listing and sale price divergence is shrinking now, as sellers benefit from our inventory shortage, asking for higher prices. Many buyers are able to meet this demand and we’re still seeing low mortgage rates.
Market Insights from Matthew Gardner
In his most recent Monday with Matthew, our Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner, begins with the staggering fact that “prices have risen almost three-fold, as the cost to finance has dropped by 72%.” If the number sounds too good (or bad) to be true, that’s because it is. To get an accurate picture, you also have to factor in inflation. Gardner explains that “just like other goods and services, the price of a house today is not directly comparable to the price of that same house 30 years ago because of the long run influence of inflation.” When you adjust for inflation, the rise in housing prices becomes less drastic. Without adjusting for inflation, “prices have risen by 268%”. But when you adjust for inflation, the “real prices have increased by 83.6%”. Therefore, the increase is much lower than what most people are discussing today.
Matthew also compares mortgage payments, another important piece of the puzzle. Although, without adjusting for inflation, “mortgage payments have increased by 74.3%,” the inflation-adjusted “real payments are 10.7% lower!” Of course, there are other monthly payments associated with home ownership. This includes property taxes, which do not change with market fluctuations. But this still indicates “that prices have been able to rise so significantly because mortgage rates have dropped”. It’s also because “inflation-adjusted home prices really haven’t skyrocketed – contrary to popular opinion.”
However, Matthew clarifies saying, “there are some markets across the country where the picture isn’t quite as rosy. In these places, prices have risen significantly more than the national average.” The Seattle metropolitan subunit (which extends around our local area) is one of these places. This is largely due to the increasing affluence as a result of the tech boom.
Not a Housing Bubble
Gardner’s bottom line is this: “there are quantifiable reasons to believe that we are not in a national housing bubble today.” However, he does point out that some markets will see a slowdown in price growth given “where prices are today in concert with the spectre of rising mortgage rates.” Ultimately, it’s still a strong seller’s market with an overall low supply and high demand. We expect to continue to see issues with affordability as prices and mortgage rates continue to climb.
New Agent Spotlight: Will Storch
We’re excited to feature Will Storch, a newer agent who recently joined Windermere Poulsbo. As a lifelong local, Will is passionate about community and serving clients’ individual needs. He works with buyers and sellers on Bainbridge Island and across Kitsap County. Will brings a range of skills and experiences to the table, allowing him to connect with a variety of people, sharing real estate expertise and insider tips. Read on to find out more.
What drew you to real estate?
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a realtor?
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
Which areas do you serve and what do you love about them?
I am based in Kitsap County with a primary focus on Bainbridge Island, where I currently live and was raised. I have also lived in Seattle for a number of years and consider myself knowledgeable about the different areas of Seattle and understand the market conditions in King County. All the areas surrounding Seattle and Kitsap County offer amazing opportunities from outdoor activities to cultural opportunities, and great restaurants and schools. I personally love living on Bainbridge Island with access to great beaches, parks, trails, and restaurants.
Note: Check out Will’s new website where he shares a wealth of information about our local communities.
How long have you lived here?
How are you involved in the community?
Volunteering during our annual Community Service Day.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Local Events Happening 4th of July Weekend
While the majority of the big fireworks shows and traditional large gatherings have been canceled or changed, there are still a lot of festive ways to celebrate the 4th of July. Kingston is set to have their fireworks show – but plan to arrive early. They are the only big one we know of that’s happening this year. Since Independence Day is on a Sunday, that means a long weekend for most. Here’s a round-up of fun, local activities to enjoy.
Friday, July 2nd
Kick off your holiday weekend enjoying local art walks. These happen regularly, but since they’ll be at the start of a holiday weekend, they’re sure to be extra fun.
Bainbridge’s Art Walk
First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Winslow begins at 4:00 PM on Friday, July 2nd. Enjoy art, film, small bites, and music at numerous downtown locations. Stop by the Windermere Bainbridge office on your route to see featured artists Dinah Satterwhite Photography & Rob Satterwhite Metalworks, enjoy Pan d’Amore snacks, live jazz music, and chilled beverages.
Bremerton’s Art Walk & Naval Ship Tour
Photo by U.S. Naval Destroyer Museum.
Bremerton Arts District’s First Friday Art Walk runs from 5:00 to 8:00 PM and businesses in downtown Bremerton and Manette participate. Bremerton has one of the largest and most diverse official fine arts districts in the northwest. For a patriotic twist, start your time in Bremerton with a tour of the USS Turner Joy, (last ticket sale at 4:30 PM). It’s one of the many great military and veteran historical sites in our area.
Saturday, July 3rd
American Patriots Cruise
Poulsbo Car Cruises is hosting a 3rd of July event. Cars will be decked out in patriotic decor, and you’re welcome to participate. The drive will start at the Poulsbo Village Shopping Center and head downtown and around surrounding neighborhoods. Grab a seat at one of Historic Downtown Poulsbo’s outdoor dining locations for a front row seat! The cruise will start at 4:00 PM.
Saturday, July 3rd and Sunday, July 4th
Wings & Wheels
Photo by Wings & Wheels.
This year’s air show event will be at the Tacoma Narrows Airport, and it will be drive-in only. The event runs on Saturday and Sunday with two shows a day for multiple viewing options, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Tickets range from $100 – $180 per vehicle for a 20’x20’ space, with discounts offered for advance online purchase.
Sunday, July 4th
Bainbridge’s Grand Old 4th
This year, the beloved Grand Old 4th celebration comes with a twist. The fun stretches across the island instead of people congregating in one place all at once. A fun run, car cruise, and picnic baskets by local businesses are just some of the ways you can enjoy celebrating island-style this year.
Kingston 4th of July
Kingston’s parade is “the longest running 4th of July celebration West of the Mississippi”! With changing pandemic restrictions and last-minute planning, the Kingston 4th of July committee is pulling together quite a few activities. There will be a parade, music, and a fireworks show. The music festival happening at Mike Wallace Park in the Port of Kingston is sponsored by the Kingston Ale House and there will be a beer garden for those 21+. The Kingston 4th of July committee is working hard to create a wonderful, safe celebration. Email the committee for more information regarding volunteering, parade participation, and/or donating. Visit the event’s Facebook page for the most up-to-date information.
The Kingston Cove Yacht Club is hosting a pancake breakfast for the public. Online registration is available to KCYC members, and the public can buy tickets at the door. It’s $7 for adults and $5 for children.
Red, White & The Blues
A fundraising event at the Old Alcohol Plant Hotel in Port Hadlock features two blues bands, drinks, and light fare. The event runs from 4:00 to 8:00 PM with dinner available for an additional fee. The event benefactor is Bayside Housing & Services, which provides transitional housing services in Jefferson County. Tickets start at $100 and can be purchased online.
4th of July Public Steamer Train Run
Photo by Kitsap Live Steamers.
Kitsap Live Steamers will be offering free rides on July 4th. This miniature railroad is a great outdoor family activity located in the South Kitsap Regional Park in Port Orchard. Masks are required for anyone over the age of 2, and rides run from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
First-Time Home Buyer? Here’s Our Checklist to Get Started
Congratulations, you have decided to buy your first home! While it’s easy to view homes for sale online, there are some important steps to set you up for success as a first-time home buyer. Here’s our checklist to help you get started.
1. Know What You Want in a Home
Before you start showing up at open houses, it’s important to sit down to hone in on your wants and needs. Without doing so, it’s like going to the grocery store without a list. And in this strong seller’s market, no one wants to waste time wandering around while great homes are being snatched up. While you may not know exactly what you want, even having some of the key elements nailed down can really help you in your search.
- Where do you want to live?
Do you want to live within walking distance of restaurants and shops, out in the country on acreage, beachside, or near a ferry to Seattle? From forested retreats to waterfront estates, convenient condos to sprawling equestrian properties, there are many options across Kitsap County. But what suits you and your needs? - How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want?
If you have children or are thinking of having them, consider how this will impact your home environment and use of space now and in the future. Also, decide if you want or need a spare room for guests, a home office, or a playroom. - Is a backyard a need-to-have or a nice-to-have?
Many people want space for their kids and/or dogs to play, room for a garden, and to entertain guests. Others simply want a little space between themselves and their neighbors. How do you imagine spending time in your dream home? And, how much home maintenance would you prefer? - What type of community do you want to live in?
If you see a property that looks appealing, be sure to check out the neighborhood. Research the schools near that home and see what amenities are nearby. Don’t be afraid to walk around in the neighborhood and say hello to people. Ask them how long they’ve lived there and what they like or don’t like about it to really get a feel for the area. Home can mean different things to different people. Some are happy to live in a “bedroom community” where they reside while their primary focus is on where they work and their easy commute. Others want to know their neighbors and feel part of a tight-knit network. Even simply knowing that the schools are solid and seeing smiling faces nearby can help inform you as a buyer.
2. Know Your Budget
Buying a house is a big commitment, and it’s essential to know how much you can afford to spend before you start seriously searching. All mortgage lenders will check your credit history, income, and assets. Lending companies want to make sure you’re capable of paying off the loan plus interest. So it’s best to get your finances in order beforehand. As a matter of fact, it’s best to get pre-approved for a loan. First, this will show you’re a serious buyer to sellers. Secondly, it’s important to remember the added costs of buying a house such as settlement and closing costs. Some first-time home buyers may not know that they are often responsible for paying for appraisals and closing costs. You can learn more about this in our Home Buying Guide.
3. Find a Reliable, Local Agent
Finding a great, local agent can help you in a variety of ways. You want someone who is knowledgeable, a good listener, and will serve as your advocate. A top-notch local agent will know the local real estate market and have strong ties to excellent local vendors who will also assist you. This is especially important if you are new to the area. Local agents have been networking in the area for years. Additionally, local agents have insider knowledge to help you find the house of your dreams at the best price possible.
4. Be Emotionally Prepared
Finally, buying a house can be emotionally exhausting. Places can show up on the market and get sold in record time. Negotiations can fall through for various reasons. In our current seller’s market, we’re seeing many multiple offer situations. That’s why it’s so important to start off on the right foot and have an excellent agent helping you through the home buying process, especially as a first-time home buyer.
For more information about our area, check out our Newcomer’s Guide to Kitsap County. In it, you’ll find videos, articles, and helpful links to learn about our communities, schools, daycares, recreation options, housing prices by city, and much more.
Community Service Day with the Poulsbo Historical Society
Last Friday was our annual Community Service Day (CSD), and we love getting out and helping the wonderful community we serve. We were proud to get to work with the Poulsbo Historical Society. Read on to find out more about what we were able to accomplish and the incredible work that they do.
The History of Community Service Day
Community Service Day is a Windermere tradition that was started in 1984. One day a year, all Windermere offices across ten states close their doors and spend the day volunteering in the community. Together, we have collectively logged over 1,000,000 community service hours. From helping at our local food banks to cleaning up parks and trails, we love giving back.
The Poulsbo Historical Society’s Important Work
The Poulsbo Historical Society’s mission is “collecting, recording, preserving and exhibiting the history, heritage, and culture of Poulsbo and the surrounding communities.” The Society manages three museums (the Maritime Museum on Front Street, the Heritage Museum at City Hall, and Martinson Cabin on Viking Way). Also, they provide historical walking tours of downtown Poulsbo. All three museums are free of charge. Their efforts enrich our community in a variety of ways. “This unique organization curates and takes pride in preserving our Poulsbo heritage dating back several generations. We were delighted to work with them,” says Julie Bray-Larsen, Managing Broker.
CSD with the Poulsbo Historical Society
We spread out and helped Poulsbo Historical Society in a variety of ways. Some helped at the Archives, cleaning, organizing, and transporting a variety of historical artifacts. Others worked at the Heritage Museum on Front street, which the Society recently acquired. There, agents helped by painting stairways, weeding, pruning, excavating shrubs, and planting new perennials. A third group worked at the Martinson Cabin. “Built in the late 1800s by the Martinson family, the cabin was moved to its present location in 2006 to preserve this historical landmark, furnished with tools used in daily life by early Norwegian pioneers,” Julie explained. “Several members of the Martinson family still reside in Poulsbo! We worked outside, pruning, cleaning up the cabin’s surrounding area, and moving items to and from the Archives to the Martison Cabin.”
A Rewarding Day
Everyone loved getting to work together since they hadn’t been together in person due to the pandemic. Julie’s personal highlight involved the Society’s volunteers. “They were all so appreciative and enjoyed meeting our agents and working together. Showing them our appreciation for preserving our unique Poulsbo heritage in such a wonderful way was definitely a “feel good” day for us all!”
Watch our agents in action in our CSD video below!
Community Spotlight: Poulsbo Historical Society
The Poulsbo Historical Society is sheer proof of what a group of passionate volunteers can accomplish. What started as small “chat” sessions in 1991 has transformed into a full-time operation with three museums. For decades, the volunteers of the Poulsbo Historical Society have worked tirelessly to preserve the town’s rich history.
Poulsbo Historical Society’s Start
The seeds of what would become the Poulsbo Historical Society are rooted in small gatherings where residents shared and recorded family histories. Not long after, they started collecting artifacts and stored them in basements and barns. By the following year, the group moved into a storage room in City Hall that they used as an office.
By 1996, the society had a board of advisors and two storage units overflowing with artifacts. Then the organization hired its first part-time director to spearhead a collection inventory and further develop the organization.
Museums and Growth
In 2006, the city installed the Martinson Cabin in Nelson Park. PHS volunteered to help preserve and maintain the cabin’s exhibits. Two years later, the city asked PHS to help with Poulsbo’s centennial celebration. They provided historical skits, exhibits, and videos.
Their growth led to a second museum: the Poulsbo Heritage Museum, which opened in 2011 on the second floor of City Hall. Soon after, in 2015, the society’s third museum, the Maritime Museum, was established, complete with a visitor’s center and a gift shop.
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- Martinson Cabin
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- Heritage Museum
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- Maritime Museum
Photos by Leo Phillips.
In 2020, the society took the opportunity to consolidate both museums onto one property. It purchased the 133-year-old Nilsen-Sonju house, which is next door to the Maritime Museum. The newly renovated Heritage Museum opened on April 8th, 2021.
“I believe that the preservation and education of Poulsbo’s rich and diverse history have contributed to making Poulsbo such a special place now and will continue well into the future. I am excited to be a part of such a great organization that contributes so positively to our entire community,” says Lora Benson, Broker, and Poulsbo Historical Society Board Member.
Lora Benson in front of the new Poulsbo Historical Museum.
Community Support
“The community – individuals, organizations, foundations, government – have been AMAZING,” says PHS Acting Executive Director Mary Ann Acosta. Acosta loves “being part of the growth of the organization” and “making more connections with the larger community, finding ways to serve and celebrate one another.”
The Poulsbo Historical Society has enriched our community by establishing three free museums with two libraries, a boatyard, an active education/outreach program offering monthly speakers’ programs, research facilities in both the Maritime and Heritage museums, an informal genealogy group, and educational activities for children.
However, this monumental achievement would not have been possible without the help of the community. The power of local grants, community members, neighborhood organizations, and thousands of volunteer hours has cemented Poulsbo’s place in history.
“Poulsbo Historical Society is largely staffed by volunteers. We have a 1.25 full-time equivalent paid staff. The rest of us volunteer, contributing from our own professional backgrounds…teaching, non-profit management, city department chief, merchant, librarian, military officer, etc. There are a total of 71 volunteer slots actively filled at any given time,” says Acosta.
The Poulsbo Historical Society continues to expand, with hopes of opening up its venues for outside events sometime this year. In April, PHS participated in Kitsap Great Give, an annual fundraiser for local nonprofits, and they raised $11,180. But more financial support is needed to continue to develop their programs and to pay off the new Heritage Museum.
Excellent Offerings
In addition to their three free museums, PHS offers downtown walking tours for families, groups, and visitors on an appointment basis. They’re $10 per person or $30 per family or small group. Members enjoy a discounted rate. Group sizes are limited to 15 due to our narrow Front Street. Walking tours must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. During non-COVID times, PHS offers summer tours for cruise ships that come to Poulsbo. Additionally, at the Martinson Cabin, they can open for school and civic groups for History Mystery programs. Generally, it’s $25 per class or group. They can accommodate up to 20 people there by appointment. “Saturdays at the Maritime” is also a great program that provides historical activities for the whole family. Due to COVID-19, they’re currently offering take-and-go projects.
PHS also hopes to make its venues available soon for events such as birthday parties. This idea is still “in the works” but Acosta says they’d like to open up the spaces to groups, providing tours of the museum(s) and interesting craft-type projects would be included as the “entertainment”, geared to a particular age group.
Upcoming Events
One of the society’s most anticipated events, the second annual Liberty Bay Festival, will be held in person this year. The festival is an extension of the Poulsbo Boat Rendezvous. The “Poulsbo boat” is a uniquely styled boat that was built in Poulsbo (most famously by Ronald Young) in the 30s, 40s, and 50s. Boat owners hosted rendezvous for the town. The community revived the tradition in the last few years and continues to expand it.
This year’s rendezvous will be on Saturday, August 28, 2021. The festivities will extend from August 25 – 29. Volunteers are hosting numerous booths with family-friendly activities and a family movie night on the lawn. It’s an excellent opportunity for locals to celebrate their shared history.
Volunteers Needed
June 11, 2021 marks Windermere’s Annual Community Service Day and Windermere Poulsbo’s agents and staff will be volunteering to help the Poulsbo Historical Society.
PHS welcomes and depends on volunteers, year-round. An easy way to help is by volunteering at one of their museums. Simply choose which museum you’d like to volunteer your time in, and sign up. You don’t need any prior knowledge. It’s a wonderful way to connect to our community.
