My Daring Resolutions for 2011

Karin Kay Properties Testimonial from Jim McDonald

Jim McDonald speaks about his recent experience selling his mother's home through Karin Kay Properties.

If you'd like to experience our Karin' About You attitude please give Karin Kay Properties a call at 360-479-7653 or email officemanagerkkp@yahoo.com

Home of the Week in Lake Symington

Great for year round recreation, this home on 4303 Elkhorn Trail near Lake Symington is priced at $239,900. It has 3 bedrooms, 2.75 baths within it's 1892 square feet. It sits on a double lot totaling .28 acre.

Think of all the warm summer nights you can spend on this expansive deck. Great for entertaining.

Large kitchen contains natural looking cabinets and woodwork.

Large living room on main floor contains a brick, wood burning fireplace.

This wood stove downstairs is able to heat the whole home on those extra cold times. Save money on heating costs while enjoying the ambiance of a fire.

A section of covered deck features a private hot tub.

Check out this three car garage!

Enjoy all the amenities of Lake Symington. This park has water access, covered picnic area, and play ground.

If you would like to schedule a showing to see this home or would like to just learn more about this fantastic property, please contact Karin Kay Properties at 360-479-7653 or send an email to officemanagerkkp@yahoo.com.

A Garden Sanctuary on Bainbridge Island: Bloedel Reserve

The weather may be frightful this time of year, but unless you want to be overcome with cabin fever, it's time to embrace the chilly weather and get out of the house for awhile.

This last weekend I pushed myself out the front door and took a drive to Bainbridge Island.  Visiting the Bloedel Reserve on the island had been something I'd meant to do for a long time.  Luckily the weather cooperated with us for the most part and we were able to explore the whole 150 acres without being rained on.

There is something for everyone at the reserve.  Everything from manicured gardens to lush evergreen forests can be found within it's boundaries.  Even in the winter beauty abounds around each corner.  It would be a great place to practice photography or get inspired about your own garden space.  Through December the visitor center is hosting a miniature village and model railroad exhibit which is great for children.

Karin Kay Properties Holiday House - Winterfest 2010

Karin Kay Properties is kicking off the holiday season by holding the First Annual Holiday House in our office. "A Company of Friends" has turned our building into a holiday shoppe full of great gifts.  The gift shoppe will be open from 9 am to 4 pm everyday this week.

On Friday we will be celebrating Winterfest with all the other downtown Bremerton businesses.  We will be open late from 4 pm until 9 pm and will be serving gingerbread cookies and wassail. Santa will also be stopping in for a visit.

If you have any questions, feel free to call Karin Kay Properties at 360-479-7653 or send an email to officemanager@karinaboutyou.com

Looking for a new Career Opportunity?

Make your dream of helping people find their perfect home a reality

If you join Karin Kay Properties by December 31st, we will reimburse your Real Estate License Training Course fees after your first sale up to $350.

We believe starting a career in real estate should not be expensive!

If you are interested in learning more, contact Karin Kay Properties at 360-479-7653 or send an email to officemanager@karinaboutyou.com.

Thanking Our Veterans

Karin Kay Properties would like to take a moment to thank all the veterans who have selflessly defended our beloved country. These individuals make sacrifices everyday so we can enjoy our freedoms without worry.

We want to remind members of the military that they may still qualify for a First-Time Homebuyer tax credit. There is a deadline on this credit though. Individuals need to enter into a contract before April 30th, 2011 and close on the purchase by June 30th, 2011.

For more information, rules, and restrictions please visit the IRS's website.

If you would like to look for a home please call Karin Kay Properties 360-479-7653 or email officemanagerkkp@yahoo.com.

Don't Forget to Fall Back

Karin Kay Properties wants to remind everyone that Daylight-Savings ends early Sunday morning so we all need to roll our clocks back an hour Saturday night.

Enjoy that extra hour of sleep and have a great weekend!

Home of the Week in Bremerton

This well priced rambler is located at 8971 Watson Place in Bremerton. Listed at $214,000, this home features 3 bedrooms and 2 baths within 1,424 square feet.  It sits on .22 acre and the surrounding landscaping features mature rhododendrons and towering evergreens.

Most of the home features brand new vinyl windows.  The large living room features a vaulted ceiling.  A half moon window brings in lots of natural light.

The kitchen features "pass-throughs" to both the living room and family room.  Recessed lighting and a solar tube keep the kitchen bright.

Family room also has vaulted ceilings.  Sliding glass doors lead onto the deck which backs up to a green belt.

The master bedroom features a large double doored closet with organizers already built in.

Both bathrooms, including the master bath shown above, are full bathrooms.

If you would like to schedule a showing to see this home or would like to just learn more about this fantastic property, please contact Karin Kay Properties at 360-479-7653 or send an email to officemanagerkkp@yahoo.com.

Safe Trick or Treat in Bremerton

Halloween is almost here!  If you don't have plans yet and are looking for a fun family oriented activity, the Downtown Bremerton Association is hosting the 13th Annual Safe Trick or Treat.  It all starts at 5 pm on Sunday in downtown Bremerton.   

Businesses up and down Pacific Avenue will be open and providing treats to the visiting ghouls and goblins.  There will also be a horse-drawn hayride.

If you are still looking for a costume there are few options to check out in the area.  There is Ish Vintage (which has costumes and clothing) on 4th Street in West Bremerton and Pacific Northwest Costume off Riddell Road in East Bremerton.

Be safe, have fun, and let's hope it doesn't rain too hard.

Karin Kay Properties Testimonial from Tanya

Tanya talks about her recent experience selling her home in Belfair with Karin Kay Properties.

If you'd like to experience our Karin' About You attitude please give Karin Kay Properties a call at 360-479-7653 or email officemanagerkkp@yahoo.com

Bremerton is Bursting with Great Deals

Pack you bags and hitch a ride, Bremerton's a good place to reside - MXPX

Now is the time to buy in Bremerton! There are over 80 properties that are available for under $150,000!

These homes come in all different shapes, sizes, and neighborhoods.  Many would be great first homes or investment properties.   

If you'd like to see the list of these homes, please contact Karin Kay Properties at 360-479-7653 or send an email to officemanagerkkp@yahoo.com

Home of the Week in Bremerton

This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathrooms is centrally located at 2029 Green Glen Lane in Bremerton.  Listed at $198,900, this six year old home features a large Master Bedroom with upgraded and spacious bathroom and large walk-in closet.  Gas heat and water makes this home more efficient too!

A bright kitchen features recessed lighting and plenty of oak cabinets.

The separate dining room has a unique pass through window to the kitchen.

Oversized living room looks out onto patio through sliding glass door.

Full width patio backs up to a neighborhood greenbelt for added privacy.

If you would like to schedule a showing to see this home or would like to just learn more about this fantastic property, please contact Karin Kay Properties at 360-479-7653 or send an email to officemanagerkkp@yahoo.com.

Karin Kay Properties Testimonial by the Cutting Family

Lisa and Craig Cutting talk about their recent positive experience buying their new home with Karin Kay Properties.

If you'd like to experience our Karin' About You attitude please give Karin Kay Properties a call at 360-479-7653 or email officemanagerkkp@yahoo.com

Kitsap Oktoberfest 2010 this Weekend!

It may not be October yet, but if your looking to do something fun this Saturday visit the Kitsap Oktoberfest at the Kitsap Mall. 

The beer will start flowing at 11 am and the festivities will last until 9 pm.  There will be live music, a Bratwurst eating contest, great food, and much more.  To see a full list of the activities please visit www.kitsapoktoberfest.com.

This event is being held to benefit the Central Kitsap Food Bank.  They ask that you bring non-perishable food donations to help pass the merriment through out the community.

Home of the Week in Twanoh

This extremely well kept A-Frame is located at 341 Canyon View Road in Twanoh Beach Club community south of Belfair.  This 1,248 square foot home contains 3 bedrooms and a 3/4 bath.  It is listed for $149,900.

Large windows keeps this home bright and cheerful.

Look at this cozy brick fireplace!  Between this and the walls of windows, you'll be able to pass the cold and gray of winter in comfort.

Updated kitchen contains everything needed to make memorable occasions.

Master bedroom features a wall of windows.

Enjoy all the amenities the Twanoh Beach Club has to offer!  There is a large pier, 400 feet of beach, and plenty of room to play!

If you would like to schedule a showing to see this home or would like to just learn more about this fantastic property, please contact Karin Kay Properties at 360-479-7653 or send an email to officemanagerkkp@yahoo.com.

Tax Credits are still available in Washington!

The Federal Housing Tax Credit may have expired but there are still other options available for home buyers.

One of these options is called the Mortgage Credit Certificate program from the Washington State Housing Finance Commission. This program aimed at middle to upper-income prospective buyers offers a tax credit equal to 20 percent of the yearly interest paid or accrued on a mortgage. The credit remains applied through out the life of the loan.

There are some rules (you can't make over a certain amount of money) and possible drawbacks ($650 fee, must live in home and etc.) To see the whole list of benefits, regulations, and whether you qualify, please visit the Washington State Housing Finance Commission website.

And as always, we'd love to help you find the home of your dreams.  Please call Karin Kay Properties at 360-479-7653 or send an email to officemanagerkkp@yahoo.com.

Poulsbo Restaurant Review: Mor Mor Bistro

Poulsbo has something for everyone.  There are art galleries, antique shops, and lots of restaurants to choose from.  One of the better ones on main street is the Mor Mor Bistro.

I have stopped in for lunch or dinner several times and have enjoyed every meal.  They pride themselves on freshness and use locally sourced food as much as possible.  The most recent was for lunch during the last heat wave in August (they've got AC!).  I ordered a delectable cheese panini and even though it was 90 degrees out, a person at our table ordered the clam chowder because it is so darn good.  

The atmosphere is great, cool and intimate.  They also have a fun little bar (shown above) which I have yet to sit at.

If you find yourself hungry in North Kitsap, this is defintely worth checking out.

How to Prepare a Home for Fall in Kitsap County

As much as we don't want to admit, Fall is just about here.  Children are headed back to school and the leaves are beginning to fall off the trees in my backyard.  It's time to push the denial about the colder months coming aside and prepare your home for the Fall.

Here are some great tips to get you started:

1.  Climb your ladder to see what's in your gutters. Check your gutters for leaves and debris that have collected over the past few months. You should do this job periodically throughout the fall season, since now is the time when all your beautiful trees are shedding their leaves.

2.  Replace your screens. With the weather becoming cooler, you need to remove your screens from all windows and doors and replace them with storm windows. By taking the time to do this simple job, you cut your heating costs significantly by preventing cool breezes and cold drafts from entering your home.

3.  Call out the heating professionals. It may not seem necessary to you because your heating system is working well, but every year, a heating professional should check your furnace. By taking this preventative measure and making minor fixes now, you can avoid expensive repair jobs in the future.

4.  Change the furnace filter. This very important job helps maximize the efficiency with which your furnace runs. You can do this periodically throughout the year as well.

5.  Schedule an appointment with the chimney sweep. If you're in the habit of taking advantage of cozy fires during the winter, you need to have your chimney cleaned by a certified professional every year. Not having your chimney clean before winter use increases the chance of chimney fires due to the buildup of creosote and soot.

6.  Add weather stripping where necessary. After you install all of your storm windows, do your own inspection of all windows and doors to check for problem areas. Repair any damage and apply weather stripping or caulk to seal up any gaps.

7.  Pest-proof your house. Take the time to thoroughly check the outside of your house for any areas that provide entry for mice, raccoons and the like. These little guys are looking for a warm place to bunk this winter, and unless you plan on charging them rent, you don't want them in your house.

These great tips were provided by eHow.

If you'd have a home to maintain, now is a great time to buy in Kitsap County.  Please call Karin Kay Properties at 360-479-7653 so we start finding the perfect home for you to weather all the seasons in.

Ready for Kitsap County Fair 2010?

The Kitsap County Fair and Stampede will be starting this Wednesday, August 25th, and run through Sunday the 29th.

Country music fans will be in for a treat on Thursday when country star Luke Bryan performs.  There will also be  comedy and hypnotist shows performing through out the five days.  And don't forget to check the various rodeo events.  Bull riding is very fun to watch!

I love going to the events as well as enjoying fair food.  Elephant ears here I come!

Building Bridges in Bremerton

Construction began on the Manette Bridge in Bremerton a couple of weeks ago.  I like to check it out periodically since it is such a close walk from our office.

Right now it looks like they are drilling holes for pilings.  I think this  is what was shaking our office late last week.  The windows were vibrating and I felt like I was experiencing a perpetual earthquake.  That shaking has subsided for now but I am sure that won't be the end of it.

Luckily it doesn't seem like they'll be closing the bridge to traffic anytime soon.  To see a more detailed time line, click here.

New Established Business Opportunity

This exciting business opportunity has just been listed! It is a established answering service located in Silverdale.

It includes inventory and equipment. The business is supported with solid contracts.

Owner will train. Priced at $149,900.

This is perfect for anyone who wants to own their own successful business without the start up.

For more information, call Karin Kay Properties at 360-479-7653 or send an email to officemanagerkkp@yahoo.com

Home of the Week in Bremerton

This beautiful home is located in a gated community at 3821 Ambleside Lane in Bremerton. The spacious home contains 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms within 1892 square feet. It is priced at $299,999.

Large kitchen with tile countertops.

The living room contains high ceilings, a ceiling fan, and a large fireplace. Guests will be impressed by these columns leading to the dining room.

Master bathroom contains a large soaking tub.

Check out this large, level side yard.

Sliding glass door next to kitchen leads out to a deck.

If you would like to schedule a showing to see this home or would like to just learn more about this fantastic property, please contact Karin Kay Properties at 360-479-7653 or send an email to officemanagerkkp@yahoo.com.