Poulsbo Living

A lifelong Kitsap County resident and a hardworking Broker, mom, and homesteader, Ashley Grimes offers homebuyers and sellers local expertise and a caring, knowledgeable approach to real estate. We’re so glad she’s part of  Windermere Poulsbo. With a varied skill set and a desire to serve, Ashley Grimes has already helped a range of clients, […]

Nestled in North Kitsap, Heronswood is a botanical paradise just a few miles from downtown Kingston. Originally brought to life in 1987 by Horticulturist Dan Hinkley and his husband, architect Robert L. Jones, the garden has expanded to more than 15 acres of diverse flora from around the world. Heronswood is an internationally recognized treasure […]

While buying a new construction home is an exciting opportunity, it’s still important to do your homework beforehand. New homes come with all the latest and greatest appliances, building materials, and modern features. But just because a house is brand new, doesn’t mean it’s perfect. As a buyer, you need to do a home inspection […]

The leaves have started changing color and fall is in the air; it’s the perfect time to welcome those fall home decor vibes. Whether you’re aiming for a warm, inviting atmosphere or want to prepare for upcoming holidays, there are many ways to celebrate the season through your home decor. We’ve rounded up some great […]

If you’re thinking of buying a home or selling your current one, choosing the right real estate agent can make a world of difference. While it’s easy to find many highly rated Realtors online, a great agent should meet a set of criteria. They don’t merely facilitate transactions; they serve as your trusted advocate, a […]

Looking to explore the area with your furry, four-legged friend? Kitsap County offers a variety of dog-friendly restaurants and parks. You’ll also find some great pet shops for all your dog-related needs. Check out these wonderful places, listed by city below. Poulsbo We’re happy to report that many of the shops here in Historic Downtown […]

You’ve decided to sell your home, so should you renovate or sell your home as is? As with all decisions, there are pros and cons to each choice. If you choose to renovate your home, it will most likely sell for a higher price and faster, but remodeling projects can be costly. And, some don’t […]

While touring a home can be exciting, it’s best to come prepared with questions. Doing so ensures you’ll stay focused on examining the property vs. solely admiring it. It’s essential to keep your wants and needs at the forefront throughout the home-buying process. Just because a property is gorgeous, in an ideal location, and/or fits […]

Although the internet can be a helpful resource, it is also full of misinformation and sound bites that lack context. When it comes to our industry, there are many misconceptions about real estate, so we thought it would be helpful to address six common ones. 1. Renting is cheaper than homeownership If you frequently relocate, […]

Located right in the middle of North Kitsap, Poulsbo’s small town charm, mixed with its proximity to so much, makes it a desirable place to live. Here are some things to keep in mind if you are thinking of moving to Poulsbo or the surrounding areas. Many adventures are within reach Poulsbo is conveniently located […]

When it comes to selling your house, one of the best first steps you can take is improving your home’s curb appeal. When prospective buyers first see your home, they are looking around inside of it, but also examining everything outside of it. The entire view of your home from the street, including the yard, […]

When it comes to a night out, Kitsap County has plenty of options. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll, a fun excursion, or a delicious meal, there are many ways to create a memorable evening with that special someone. Here are some interesting ideas to get you started. Explore Port Gamble Historic District For […]

For many, spring is a time for deep cleaning. Before you start throwing things out, think about how they can be upcycled or reused. It’s also a good time to see what you can do to lower your home’s energy usage. Small, manageable changes can lead to effective low-waste solutions. Here are some ideas to […]

In every corner of Kitsap County, there are beautiful places, and some go unnoticed, especially if you’re visiting or aren’t originally from here. Sometimes, there might even be places you often pass but never stop to check out. Here’s a list of ideas to help you uncover some local gems that are a bit off […]

Picturesque views of the Puget Sound, late summer nights on the shore, and the ever-present possibility of an orca sighting. While the serenity that comes from a waterfront home can’t be beat, there are some considerations to keep in mind for this type of property. What exactly do you need to know before buying a […]

There are different ways to go about buying a home. As a homebuyer, your situation, goals, and expectations about the process can vary widely. To demystify the home-buying process, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common questions with useful information to help you get started. How can I start the home-buying process? […]

With decades of experience serving homebuyers and sellers, Linda Hilton possesses a wealth of knowledge. We’re so glad she returned to our Windermere team. Linda has fascinating stories about everything from real estate transactions to her experiences abroad. Learn more about her in our Q&A below. What drew you to real estate? Originally, it was the […]

Whether you need to build a home, remodel a bathroom, or complete a large landscaping project, hiring a contractor may feel a bit daunting. First and foremost, the person or team you hire should be able to complete a job well and within the agreed-upon time. How do you find the right person for the […]

With thousands of acres of forest and miles of coastline, Port Gamble is a recreational paradise. Originally inhabited by the Nux Sklai Yem or Strong People, these descendants of the Salish people are now known as the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe. Today, Port Gamble is a charming, quaint town in North Kitsap, but for over […]

Downsizing can seem quite daunting at first glance. Whether you’re thinking of selling your house and moving to a smaller home or you want to declutter and simplify your life, there are strategies that can help you streamline the process. Here are seven great ways to help you get started and achieve your downsizing goals. […]

If you’re thinking of selling your home, it helps to have a timeline in mind with the key steps involved. If you’re feeling overwhelmed about the process, detailed information can help you plan ahead and manage your expectations. Below, you’ll find a helpful timeline, and we’ve included our top tips to ensure a successful outcome. […]

North Kitsap County offers senior citizens a plethora of retirement resources. From housing and transportation options to different ways to get involved in the community, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, the abundance of activities ensures there is always something fun to do. Activities & Community Involvement First and foremost, North Kitsap County is […]

There is no doubt that summer is officially “outdoor season” here in the Pacific Northwest. That being said, homeowners love to spend time making their yard into a personal oasis. From growing vegetables and cultivating cut flowers to creating the perfect outdoor entertaining space, chances are, a trip to a local nursery is on your […]

Before buying a home, it’s helpful to know more about the different types of properties available. Some types are better suited for your lifestyle, depending on your goals and finances. When people envision buying a house, they often think of a single-family home. This is a stand-alone structure where a single family lives, hence the […]

If you’re preparing to sell your home in Kitsap County or in the surrounding area, there is a good chance you will find an enthusiastic buyer. However, their offer may contain contingencies. Contingencies are certain conditions that must be met before the sale of a home is finalized. They are often meant to help buyers […]

Kitsap Regional Library is more than a place to check out books and access free wi-fi. For many, it is a vital community resource. While free books, book lockers, printing, and computer access are nice, they are only the tip of the iceberg. Your local library offers a range of informational materials, interesting events, helpful […]

Poulsbo is known for its historic charm and Nordic flair. Take a walk down Front Street, and you will see plaques displaying information about the original businesses that stood in the places you find modern shops today. The Poulsbo Historical Society plays a vital role in preserving Poulsbo’s history and educating locals and visitors. Their […]

Buying and selling a home at the same time is challenging for a variety of reasons. Often, homeowners need their home to sell to have enough money available for the down payment on a new home. A bridge loan is helpful if you can’t wait for your home to sell in order to purchase a […]

The experts have weighed in and 2024’s interior design trends are all about embracing colors and fabrics that add warmth and texture. Eco-friendly ideas will also continue to play an important role in our living spaces. Read on to gain tips and inspiration to enhance your living space. A Peach Perfect Color of the Year […]

Purchasing a home is a collaborative journey that involves various professionals working together to ensure a smooth process. You may think primarily about you as the buyer and the seller, but there are many others involved. Understanding the roles of key individuals in the home buying process is crucial. Here are some important people to […]

We proudly support our armed forces and their families, and we’re grateful for the sacrifices they make. Many of our real estate agents have worked with military families for years and are well-versed in helping families about to PCS (for our non-military readers, that means Permanent Change of Station). As proud locals, we love introducing […]

When it comes to selling your home, it’s essential to stand out to ensure the best price with the most favorable outcome. One effective way to do that is by staging your home. Staging will present your home in the best possible manner, appealing to homebuyers online and in person. Let’s explore the costs and […]

Even if the house you are buying seems perfect, often a home inspection will uncover necessary repairs. As the home buyer, it’s within your right to request credits or fixes to address those issues. Here are a few tips to effectively negotiate after a home inspection. Required Repairs Since a lender is making a financial […]

If you have enjoyed a walk in a local park lately, chances are you have a volunteer to thank for making the experience more enjoyable. With tens of thousands of acres of parks and trails in Kitsap County, volunteer groups and “adopt a trail” programs are what make maintaining them all possible. Crossroads Rotary of […]

Whidbey Island is the perfect spot for families looking for a fun day trip or weekend getaway. The island is about 40 miles long and is a popular destination amongst locals and those visiting the Pacific Northwest. It only takes a couple of hours to get to Whidbey Island from Kitsap County, and Whidbey is […]

Transform your space from house to home by shopping for these locally-made products. Kitsap has got you covered for all your household needs, from larger items like custom furniture and wallpaper to small touches that enhance a room. Skip the big-box stores and support these fantastic small businesses next time you want to improve your space or […]

If you want to sell your home, it’s important to prepare in every way – and that includes avoiding pricey missteps. Selling a home involves various fees and costs. However, it also involves opportunities to maximize your profit. In order to have the best home-selling experience, avoid these costly and timely mistakes. Not considering home-selling […]

Some of the best hot springs in Western Washington are only a couple of hours from Kitsap County. Locals and tourists alike enjoy soaking in Washington’s natural beauty. From deep in the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Valley of the Cascade Mountains to the Elwha Valley of the Olympic Mountains, you can explore some of Western Washington’s […]

If you’re a first-time home buyer, the idea of buying a house may be exciting and overwhelming. We’re here to help by answering your frequently asked questions. Here at Windermere, we’re proud to partner with Penrith Home Loans and we love our lender, Cherie Kesti. Cherie is a Branch Manager and Mortgage Consultant with over […]

If you’re new to fishing and crabbing or if you just moved to our area, we have some great fishing and crabbing spots along with some resources to help you get started. Here in Kitsap County, we have a number of beautiful places to enjoy water sports and outdoor activities. The Pacific Northwest is the […]

Interior design can enhance functionality while also reflecting the personality and style of the homeowner. From selecting the right colors and textures to choosing the perfect furniture and accessories, every detail matters. The process can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We chatted with Poulsbo interior designer Kristin Alvarado to get some tips […]

Homeowners here in the Pacific Northwest are happily beginning to garden now that it is spring. But it’s important to remember: a good garden begins with good soil. This beginner’s guide to composting includes rules, tips, and helpful information. Why Compost? Composting food waste and other suitable items such as cardboard and hay is beneficial […]

Kitsap County offers many arts and crafts activities so you can get or stay in touch with your creative side. From paint-and-sip parties to woodworking classes, and kids’ crafts to fiber arts, there is a range of opportunities. Here are some ideas that people of all ages can enjoy.    Bainbridge HeArt and Soul in […]

If winter’s gray skies tend to dampen your mood, there are easy ways to brighten your home. With a few simple changes, your home will feel sunnier. Consider the following home decor ideas to give your home an illuminating lift. Maximize Sunlight Since there are fewer sunny days this time of year, it’s important to […]

Looking for the perfect holiday gift? There are many wonderful small businesses in North Kitsap where you can get a variety of gifts for everyone on your list. We’ve broken it down by some popular categories, but this is just a start. You are sure to be wowed when you walk into some of these […]

It’s moving time, but now you have to decide what to do with your house. Should you rent or sell your home? To figure out the answer, it helps to consider several factors including your financial situation, the local housing market, and what makes the most sense for your life. As you consider whether to […]

Celebrate the season with some fun, family-friendly fall events and activities here in Kitsap County. Here’s a list to get you started. From dress-up days to pumpkin patches and everything in between, we’re sure there’s something that will pique your interest. Ongoing Fall Events Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch at Pheasant Fields Farm in Silverdale […]

Once a month, Matthew Gardner, Windermere Real Estate’s Chief Economist, provides insights on our housing market. We’ve listed some of his recent predictions, thoughts, and conclusions to give you the information you need to make well-informed real estate decisions. And, you can also watch Gardner’s full videos below to learn even more. The Continued Decline […]

Are you thinking about selling your home, but worried since it isn’t spring or summer? Fall is actually a good time to sell your home and it comes with some unexpected perks. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of fall home sales. Fall Ambiance Autumn is a beautiful time of year, especially here […]

If you’re feeling a bit tired of your current surroundings, now’s the time to spruce up your home with a few easy Do-It-Yourself (DIY) weekend projects. You can easily complete these projects in two days or less; they won’t feel overwhelming or stressful. Start something new with one or more of these home projects below. […]

Summer is the perfect time to try a new recipe using delicious, local produce and goods made right here in Kitsap County. We’re fortunate to live in a place with many wonderful local farms and farmers’ markets so why not take advantage? Enjoy tasty, healthy, locally-grown food by testing out these easy summer recipes below. […]

While having an idea of what you want in a new home is important, managing expectations is also crucial to a smooth home buying experience and long-term purchase satisfaction. Knowing more about the local market and what’s available in your price range will empower you as you begin searching for the perfect place. The following […]

A sincere advocate with a wealth of knowledge, Managing Broker/Realtor Marisa Robba is a wonderful recent addition to our Windermere Poulsbo office. She’s been helping buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals for seven years and possesses a unique skill set and a sincere love for Kitsap County. Read our Q&A to learn more. […]

To get the best offer for your home, making a great first impression is key. In fact, our belief in the importance of first impressions is so strong that we developed the Windermere Ready program to support sellers. With professional advice from local experts, our program prepares your home to wow potential buyers. Also, we’re […]

Looking to buy a home but worried about this competitive seller’s market? There are many steps to take that can set you apart from the competition. One of those can be using a local lender. A great local lender can be very advantageous. We’ll explain why with insights from some of our real estate experts. […]

Kitsap County’s real estate market is picking up and had a solid first quarter. In 2021, we saw high demand and low inventory, and that is still the case. It’s still a seller’s market; homes continue to sell above the asking price.  Read on for key highlights and market trends below.  And, if you’re looking […]

Whether you are new to donating to the nonprofit world, or you are a seasoned giver, Kitsap Great Give is a phenomenal event. This year, it’s on April 19th, but early giving has already begun. Kitsap Great Give supports a multitude of local organizations, making it easy to donate to more than one nonprofit at […]

With taglines such as “Little Norway, Big Fun”, it’s not surprising that there are so many great events in Poulsbo happening throughout the year. From shopping and live music to embracing the Nordic roots of Poulsbo’s founders, here’s a roundup of festivals and activities to put on your calendar. Spring Girls’ Night Out First Wednesday […]

1. Don’t Underestimate Your Soil Soil really has a rich life of its own so pay attention to it and manage it properly. Enrich your soil with organic matter to make sure it can retain moisture and nutrients. You also want to make sure it drains well. You should be able to easily dig, and […]

If you’re thinking of buying your first home, you may be worried about typical first-time buyer mistakes or taking on too much. Luckily, we’ve gathered a mix of common misconceptions as well as insights from our real estate agents to equip you with what you need to know.  Buying the Neighborhood One of our Brokers, […]

In need of a fun getaway or a relaxing retreat? We’ve rounded up some of our favorites that are located in our corner of the Pacific Northwest. From romantic places to outdoor explorations, these Washington gems are sure to help you unwind and recharge.  Angeline Spa & Clearwater Casino Resort in Suquamish Part of the […]

Wondering how Kitsap County’s real estate market did during 2021’s fourth quarter? We’ve compiled key highlights and insights to keep you up to date. Just as in previous years, our local market slowed down during the holiday season. There are still many eager buyers looking to make Kitsap County their home, but fewer homes were […]

While there are many wonderful outdoor gems across Kitsap County, here are some fun indoor places to enjoy on cold, rainy days. These family-friendly activities are great for kids of different ages and many are free or under $15.     Interesting Indoor Activities in the Bremerton Area Ahoy Kitsap Playland in Bremerton This indoor playground […]

We are proud to live and work in Kitsap County, and community involvement is a key component of the way we do business. So, we thought we would take a moment to share the many ways in which our Windermere Poulsbo office has supported and invested in Kitsap this year. By doing so, we hope […]

The holiday season is upon us! Add some spice to your holiday decorations with these creative ideas. We’ve even included local shops around Kitsap where holiday items can be purchased. And, some of these ideas can be turned into fun DIY projects with your family.  Children’s Book Display or Advent Calendar The easiest way to […]

If baking pies isn’t your favorite thing on your Thanksgiving to-do list, these wonderful local bakeries have got you covered. Just make sure to order ahead so you can get your favorites before they sell out! Bigleaf Maple Bakery in Poulsbo Not only can you order Thanksgiving desserts from this new Poulsbo bakery, but you […]

If you’re thinking of selling or wondering what your home is worth, a real estate agent can provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). Not sure if you really need one? Read on to find out more. Comparative Market Analysis A CMA is an informative report with data that compares your property to similar […]

Our North Kitsap real estate market has been even more competitive for buyers. Read on for key highlights from our strong third quarter and insights from Windermere’s Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner.  Our Competitive Market North Kitsap’s inventory is now lower than last year while the demand remains high. Remote working culture seems here to stay, […]

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 […]

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, […]

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 Bushel & Barrel in Poulsbo Although Bushel & […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

Summer is almost here and if you haven’t started planning your camping trips, now’s the time! There are so many wonderful places to choose from, and here are some of our favorites. It’s important to note that campsites offering reservations fill up fast while others are on a first-come, first-served basis so check now and […]

Poulsbo’s North Kitsap market picked up in our first quarter despite a seasonal slowdown. We’ve compiled key highlights so that you can easily get informed about our local real estate market.  Our Strong Seller’s Market North Kitsap’s inventory remains low and demand remains high due to people moving away from the bigger cities and COVID-19 […]

As one of the oldest food banks in the United States, Fishline has served North Kitsap County for 54 years. It distributes over one million pounds of food annually. Today, Fishline provides comprehensive services to assist our neighbors in need. Read on to find out more about this incredible organization. Fishline’s History and Mission The […]

The seasonal cleaning fest is right around the corner just as gray winter skies clear to welcome the warm spring sun. Get ahead of the spring home maintenance frenzy by following this simple checklist. Top to Bottom Home Inspection No one knows your house better than you do! Complete the first task on this checklist […]

There are many ways to “go green” and that includes making your home more eco-friendly. Here are six easy ways that you and your family can help the environment at home.  1. Start Composting  Most of us are used to recycling, but have you ever thought about composting? It’s easy to believe that our food […]

We’re excited to feature new agent Rebecca Olodort. She knows how important it is to be a good listener, a strong advocate, and a trusted guide. Rebecca offers a wealth of information and experience and her love of home design and helping people shines through. Read on to find out more. What unique professional experiences […]

Poulsbo’s North Kitsap market saw a strong end to 2020. We’ve compiled key highlights from our fourth quarter as well as some useful insights from Windermere Real Estate’s Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner. Gardner also offers his 2021 market forecast with some uplifting and interesting predictions. Our Strong Seller’s Market Poulsbo’s inventory remains low while demand […]

Kitsap County is full of interesting places to explore, and there are some lesser-known spots that we’re often excited to share with clients, friends, and family. Here are six that we highly recommend.   Foulweather Bluff Preserve   On the northernmost tip of the Kitsap Peninsula sits the beach town of Hansville. Although Hansville is […]

We are proud to feature Angela Winks in our new Q&A spotlight series. With a diverse set of skills and experiences, Angela offers buyers and sellers a focused, personalized approach with an emphasis on clear communication, positivity, and a sincere appreciation for the areas and clients she serves.  Read on to find out about Angela’s […]

2021 is the fresh start we’ve been waiting for; it’s a new year full of hope and possibility. Want to really make it a year to remember? Here are some fun, easy ways to do just that, right here in Kitsap County. Enjoy the View We all get caught up in routines and sometimes that […]

Not sure if winter is the time to sell your home? Although the real estate market tends to slow down as it gets colder, you can actually use this season to your advantage. Here are some points to consider. 1. Supply is Low and Demand is High According to Realtor.com’s Monthly Housing Trends Report, national […]

As beautiful and adaptable as the evergreen, The Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe has been a hallmark of the Kitsap Peninsula for over 10,000 years. Ancient Landscape The S’Klallams thrived through a seasonal connection to the changing climates. In the warm summer months, they roamed semi-nomadically and re-visited fishing holes and hunting/gathering sites. During the cold […]

What better way to support our wonderful local businesses than to “shop local” this holiday season? There are so many unique, thoughtful holiday gifts you can buy right here. While it’s challenging to put together a complete list of all of the wonderful options across North Kitsap, we’ve created a collection that provides a range […]

North Kitsap’s market had a very strong third quarter. We’ve compiled key stats below to provide a comprehensive review of our market, as well as insights and predictions from Windermere Real Estate’s Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner. Our Strong Seller’s Market It’s a strong seller’s market here in North Kitsap. Inventory remains low while demand is […]

Smithsonian Magazine suggests, “instead of Norway, visit Poulsbo.” Culture runs deep in the town known as the “Little Norway on the Fjord.” Poulsbo blends Norwegian immigrant influence with indigenous Suquamish roots, making a beautifully unique Pacific Northwest community. Enjoy Poulsbo’s Landscape A treasure of Kitsap County, Poulsbo hosts a delightful downtown that charms locals and […]

As the “Official Real Estate Company of the Seattle Seahawks,” all of us at Windermere are proud to kick off our fifth season of partnering with the Seahawks to tackle homelessness. Our Tackle Homelessness Campaign For every defensive tackle made at a Seahawks home game this season, Windermere will donate $100 to Mary’s Place in […]