Daylight Saving Time

Washington State is trying to join the states of Arizona and Hawaii and no longer observe daylight saving time. For many years, there have been other bills proposing the permanent switch to permanent standard time like we use in winter. If the law passes this time, it will go into effect on the first Sunday in November following the effective date of federal authorization. If congress does not authorize the revision, legislators are proposing that the state seek approval to change Washington to year around Mountain Standard time which would have the same effect.

Apparently studies show that about 400 lives are saved due to more light in the late afternoon hours when more people are up and out.

It is estimated that there would be 20% less crime because the preferred working hours for criminals would be reduced due an hour less of darkness.

It would improve the well being by avoiding disruption in schedules.

Opponents say they don't like the idea of children standing in the dark waiting for buses as the sun would rise at 9 am rather than 8 am.

If you count out the months however, we do spend 8 months of the year in daylight saving time and only 4 months in regular time.

 The federal Uniform Time Act followed in 1966, instituting a nationwide daylight saving time, but allowing states to opt out as long as the entire state (or the entire part of a state that’s in a given time zone) does so. That exemption allowance is what could let Washington and other West Coast states make this change.

What do you think, would you like to eliminate daylight saving time?

Changing Market Conditions!

The market has changed in Seattle. We're not number one any more and for most of us, that's just fine. The slowdown brings us back to conditions that are closer to a balanced market although we're not there yet. A normal balanced market includes 6 months inventory and currently we have 2 1/2 months. That's far better the what we've had for several years. The median sales price is up but NWMLS is showing that we have 23% more listings than this time last year. This trend is predicted to continue. I'll keep an eye on things and keep you updated. Stay tuned.

Thinking About Moving?

Are you thinking about moving? According to this graphic there are three major reasons that people are moving. Maybe you're just plain tired of your present home. You don't want to really want to remodel and maybe the home you're living in just isn't suited to the kind of space that you want in a home. Moving seems to be the best choice here.

The second most commen reason for moving is increasing family size. I think it could also be that family size is reducing or certainly changing. Maybe you're thinking about a multi-generational home or having a baby. Maybe you're downsizing because the kids have all moved out. In any case, the household dynamics are changing.

And then we have the age old getting married or moving in with a partner. Very common scenario. All great reasons for moving.

Remember, I can help. I love to help my friends, family and clients through these transitions. Are you thinking about a change in your living space in 2018? Let's talk!

Seattle Real Estate Market

For those of you watching the Seattle real estate market, the increase in home prices is not a surprise. It's been in the news for many months and now has made notable headlines by being nearly double in increase of the next closet contender. Seattle is at +13.5% and Portland at +7.6% What are your thoughts? Is this good news or difficult news? I suppose it depends on if you're selling or buying a home or even just watching the property tax bill go up.  Let me know what you think.

If you want current information on what your home may be worth give me a call or get in touch. I'd love to have a conversation with you.