Favorite Business

Favorite Businesses in South King County
Arts Alive! Gallery

I've decided to write a series of posts about my favorite businesses in
South King County.

The first one I'd like to mention is the Arts Alive! Gallery in Enumclaw, WA.

It is one of those small town venues where local artists are able to present their work ranging from fine art in painting and sculpture - to artisan crafts in jewelry and pottery. There are metal artists, textile artists, designers, actors, singers, dancers, and writers who are all involved in the activities organized by the Membership and Executive Board Members.

This arts organization has been in existence for a very long time, and raises funds to support the arts and artists on the plateau. Since their beginning they have held 26 annual auctions, with proceeds close to $200K going to individual artists and art programs. The auction is especially fun because of the costumes - it is a costume party.

Some of the other yearly events that they do to raise funds includes and Art in the Garden which happens in the summer, and several other smaller events through out the year giving artists lots of opportunities to participate and show off their work.

Some of their other programs include art workshops taught by local artists ranging from drawing and painting to bookmaking and children's art programs. Just last night there was a potluck for all the participants and their supporters to celebrate, mingle, and just catch up on the local activities and plans for the new year.

So if you are ever looking for an activity related to the arts or looking to pick up a special gift in South King County, this is a wonderful place to stop and shop for something unique and interesting.

They are located at:

Arts Alive! Gallery
1429 Cole Street
Enumclaw, WA 98022
360-802-6787

One of their long term members has done a great job managing the Gallery and spear-heading many events for this organization. She's been committed to the organization since she joined in 2009, and really stands out in my mind. Her name is Elaine L. Stop by to say hello, and tell her Roseanne sent you.

Deck Maintenance - Make or Break a Home's Presentation

Deck Maintenance - Make or Break a Home's Presentation

Attention all Sellers!!! I simply must address this topic - you may even call it a pet peeve.

I know this isn't the normal time to discuss deck maintenance, but it won't be long and another year will have gone by without taking care of that deck!! So instead of New Year resolutions, what about a New Year's goal to take care of them in 2011!

I see so many homes for sale that are beautifully staged including manicured landscapes, but totally loose it when you see the neglected deck surface. I just don't get it. It is one of those areas that for some reason folk's turn a blind eye. I can understand perhaps liking the weathered wood look - but the most and slime, really?

Here's a link from a Pacific Northwest Contractor who provides a really good overview on deck care with pictures on the difference it makes! Most of his work is done for the Eastside of King County, WA, the the information is worth a read especially for DIY's.

So whether you are selling a home in the Pacific Northwest from South King County to the Southeast Atlantic Coast - P-L-E-A-S-E take care of those decks and wood surfaces!!! It will pay off!!!

Homes Values - Moving Forward

Homes Values - Moving Forward

Bull's Eye! Congratulations if you are one of the many folks who took advantage of the great interest rates in the 4% range along with the great home values in 2010?

For those of you that are still concerned that home values will continue to drop in 2011, I'd like to suggest you breathe easy for the following reasons:

First: The interest rates have started to rise slightly, so congratulations on your wise decision in 2010.

Second: Even if the values drop some this year - you should ignore it and enjoy your home because you shouldn't be selling yet. I know this seem obvious, but many folks forget to see the big picture. If you did sell, even in a good market, you would lose money because of the cost of selling a home. Your home's value will be improved by the time you would normally sell in 5 - 7 years, and you should have equity in your home. You won't lose a thing, all the while enjoying the benefits of owning a home.

If you are still a buyer on the fence, then please take note of the interest rate increases. Get pre-qualified with a lender you can trust. It may be time to stop straddling that fence, find your ideal home, and make that purchase. Make this truly your Happy New Year and start your search here for King County Real Estate.

If you would like more information, just take the next step forward and ask me!

Roseanne Campagna
Windermere RE/South, Inc.
253-854-8900