Get to Know Mercer Island’s Downtown Community – Part 2: Architecture

By Ken Urman, Realtor

The renaissance of Mercer Island’s downtown community was instigated by the Growth Management Act (GMA) of  1990 and a State-issued requirement that Mercer Island plan to accommodate 3,000 additional residents. Because Mercer Island was essentially built-out at the time with single family homes, downtown was the only place to build high-occupancy buildings that would provide 1,437 new housing units by 2022. Implementation of the plan brings significant change to the once-sleepy downtown area. The most obvious change is in the architecture of the new buildings.

Empty parking lots, aging buildings and familiar traffic patterns are being replaced by mid-rise apartment and condominium buildings with office and retail space on the first floor or two. These new buildings are changing the appearance of the downtown area and occupying the space previously available for parking and altering familiar traffic patterns. When fully implemented, the redevelopment plan will add more than 80,000 square feet of retail space, 24 condos, and at least 700 apartments.

The retail space is expected to revitalize the downtown area and create homes for the types of businesses needed to provide nightlife venues on Mercer Island. The residents of the apartments and condominiums are expected to be immediate clientele for the businesses located in these buildings. Those who work in the community are expected to shop there, as well. In time, if the right kinds of restaurants and shops open, the downtown/city center neighborhood could support a thriving nightlife that will keep Islanders “at home” as opposed to driving into Seattle for the evening.

Parking concerns were raised by a number of Mercer Island Residents during the planning stages of the downtown redevelopment. Some concerns have been mitigated by the requirement that all of these buildings include underground parking or lots behind the structures. Parking in downtown is free.

Although the appearance and ambiance of the downtown or city center area has changed dramatically, many believe the wide sidewalks (15 feet), pedestrian-friendly aspects of the redevelopment will maintain the relaxed lifestyle, there are some who do not like the construction of taller buildings in the downtown area. The mixed-use structures should revitalize the downtown community, especially after 5:00 pm. It should also generate a significant continuing source of tax revenue for the city. Development of the downtown core continues with many new projects in the works . . . making our city more modern and fun!

 This is the second in a series of blog posts about the Downtown Mercer Island community. Part 1 discussed the reasons for redevelopment and the goals achieved. Part 3 will look at the residents and businesses of the new downtown.  
 

By Ken Urman, Realtor

From Sleepy Town Center to Urban Renaissance: The Revitalization of Mercer Island’s Downtown

If you have lived on Mercer Island for 15 years or more, you’ve seen many changes as Mercer Island built out and continued to define itself as an upscale and sophisticated community. Islanders value the many parks and other green space areas scattered throughout the island, as well as a relaxed lifestyle with many desired amenities. What has been lacking was a vibrant downtown community where people live, work, do business, and enjoy dining and entertainment venues.
The character of the island’s neighborhoods have traditionally been suburban single-family homes where children can learn and grow, where the practice of all religions is honored and respected, where the arts and local artists are cherished, and where nature provides numerous venues for entertainment and activity. The island school district is one of the best in the state and the nation, providing opportunities for each child to learn in an optimal atmosphere. There are also many community activities, and facilities for many and varied interests.

Many of the most significant changes on the island in the last 15 years have occurred in the Town/City Center or Downtown area. As growth continued, developers were forced to turn their attention to the downtown area as the only part of the island that could accommodate expected future growth. Greater impetus cam, however as a result of the state’s 1990 Growth Management Act (GMA). The GMA required of the city a growth plan to create 1,437 new housing units for 3,000 new residents by the year 2022.

A growth plan of this scope requires many changes in the downtown sector. The first change was an upgrade of building height limits to accommodate four- to six-story structures. The second change will be creation of a neighborhood with a uniquely high population density. These two changes will, of course, bring a number of other changes and adaptations, not least of which are concerns about adequate parking and increasing need for changes in traffic flow patterns.

These changes in downtown Mercer Island also provide several opportunities for the city and for all residents of the island. In short, growth provided the impetus to move forward from “sleepy town center” to urban renaissance by thoroughly revitalizing the neighborhood. With a large number of new residents, there must be new places to shop, conduct business, and enjoy the entertainment venues desired by Mercer Island’s residents. Rather than leaving the island for good restaurants, it is possible to find restaurants in downtown. Indeed, as my next post will discuss, many of the new structures in the downtown area feature first-floor businesses with apartments or condominiums on the upper floors.

Mercer Island’s downtown neighborhood may consist mostly of mid-rise buildings, but the easygoing lifestyle will not be lost. With Mercerdale Park located on the south side of downtown, new residents will have immediate access to all of the facilities and in the park, including the skate park.   The very popular Mercer Island Youth and Family Services Thrift Store will also be convenient to residents. 

The downtown area began as a field of mud and tree stumps. During the population boom of the 1960s and 1970s, redevelopment was accomplished with quickly-built strip malls. The new growth accommodation has come with sufficient advance warning to enable the city to plan for both population growth and simultaneous transformation of the downtown area. Thus, the city has been able to manage the transition from an area of failing businesses and empty parking lots to a robust center of community life.

Change always brings challenges, be they finding additional parking spaces, transitioning from four-way stops to traffic lights at some intersections, to anticipating new needs and planning proactively. The residents of Mercer Island have embraced this change and met challenges as they arose. Although there may be some residents who do not agree with every detail of our downtown revitalization, most embrace both the opportunities and the new face of Mercer Island’s downtown area.

This post is the first in a three-part series on the downtown neighborhood of Mercer Island. The next post will examine The New Look of Downtown, and the third will introduce the Downtown Population.

If you have other questions, or you are interested in a residence in Mercer Island’s downtown area, I would be happy to help you. Please call me at 206-230-0833. And, remember, I’ll bring the coffee.

Hot Kitchen Remodeling Trends: Appliances with Attitude

By Ken Urman, Realtor

In a recent post I outlined 10 kitchen remodeling trends. In this post I will continue to discuss kitchen remodeling trends related to appliances. Some of the trends in appliances show the influence of other trends, such as the sleek, clean look of contemporary kitchen design, the shift from under-counter cabinets to drawers, and the design of kitchens to accommodate multiple cooks.

Here are the leading trends in kitchen appliances. Some are new; others are becoming more popular.

·         Appliances in drawers. Refrigeration and microwave drawers are popular because they are accessible to all members of the family. These drawers are also safer than reaching above a range or cooktop (especially if a burner is in use at the time).

·         Refrigerator drawers can be placed anywhere in or on the edge of the kitchen (especially accessible when the kitchen is open to another room of the house). Any member of the family can get to food, snacks or beverages without getting in the way of cooking activities in the main workspace of the kitchen.

·         Wine coolers, under-counter beverage centers, etc. can be positioned for ease of access in the most desirable location.

·         For those who still prefer the control of a gas range, more powerful burners are now available. These new burners can offer an output of up to 18,000 BTUs.

·         Induction cooktops continue to rise in popularity because they are energy-efficient and because they heat up and cool down faster, making them safer. Induction cooktops carry higher price tags and require higher amps to operate.

·         If the ultimate in healthy food preparation is on your agenda, you can now choose a steam oven. It will cook faster and healthier. Some come with a second convection oven. Some also include an option that will remove spills without an extended cleaning cycle.

·         Some refrigerators are available now that include hot water dispensers in the door, as well as ice water and ice dispensing.

·         Refrigerators with French-style doors are becoming more popular. They make it much easier to view the contents of the refrigerator. The new feature this year is that some manufacturers are making refrigerators with four doors.

·         Dishwashers now offer numerous options, including three or four racks for utensils and flatware. The move to greater energy efficiency continues with dishwashers that use less water, make less noise, are larger, and even have jets in the side walls.

Other trends related to kitchen appliances include:

·         Hiding appliances behind panels that match cabinetry or enhance the contemporary style makes the overall appearance of the kitchen more suited for entertaining and for openness to other rooms of the house.

·         The most popular faucets conserve water. Many also have touchless controls.

·         Popular sinks are longer and deeper single-bowls. Some include cutting boards that conserve space.

·         Rather than leaving small appliances (can openers, coffee makers, etc.) on the counter, there is a trend of placing these appliances in “homes” or “condos” or “garages” that keep them easily accessible while keeping them out of sight and continuing the uncluttered and sleek lines of the contemporary style of kitchen design.

·         Finally, consider a built-in coffee maker that is fully visible.

New trends and functionality in appliances are less likely to become passé as quickly as a bold color of the year or countertop material. If you are remodeling, and you plan to sell your home in the near future, it is important to keep in mind that some trends will last and others will not. If you need help evaluating how your remodeling ideas will be received by today’s home buyers, please call me (206-230-0833). I would be happy to discuss your plans and discuss the questions and desires buyers in our area are looking for in their kitchens. Remember, I’ll bring the coffee!

Top Kitchen Remodeling Trends: Forget Salt, Add Sizzle

By Ken Urman, Realtor 

Homeowners remodel for a number of reasons, among them preparing to sell their home. The kitchen can make or break the sale of a home for top dollar.  According to the 2014 Cost vs. Value

Report, the cost of a mid-range kitchen remodel is now about $55,000 and the cost of an upscale remodel averages $109,000. Whether you are planning a kitchen remodel before putting your home on the market or just to improve your home, incorporate these kitchen remodeling trends for optimal results. These trends are highlighted in a recent list from The National Association of Realtors.

1.       Clean, contemporary lines. The trend this year is contemporary. Choose cabinetry with unornamented doors or little molding and minimal or no knobs or handles. Scale back the color, and opt for simpler designs for countertops and flooring. If using tile, choose larger tiles to reduce the amount of grout visible.

2.       Make it feel expansive. Make your kitchen feel larger and look brighter by opening it to other rooms or to the outdoors. Create clearly defined work and dining zones in your kitchen and include features like a fireplace or an entertainment center.

3.       Preferred colors. Home buyers still tend to gravitate to white kitchens. The next color in popularity this year is gray. With either choice, don’t be afraid to add a few small items of color.

4.       Flooring of wood or ceramic tile. In terms of popularity, the two materials are equal. If you choose wood, use smaller strips (2-3 inches). If you choose ceramic tile, think big – 12 x 24 inches.

5.       Quartz for the countertop. Quartz has displaced granite in popularity. It is less costly, easier to maintain and keep clean, and has less-strident designs.

6.       Drawers below the counters. Instead of bending over to open a cabinet and sort through items to find what you need, there is a clear trend to drawers below counters to simplify the search and reduce bending. The problem of all drawers being the same size can be overcome by having your contractor customize the drawers to sizes you prefer.

7.       Backsplashes are focal points. Ceramic tile or subway tile is still popular. However, color and finish now permit greater creativity. Matte finishes are now as popular as glossy finishes. Some tiles made from recycled materials offer new color and finish options.  Larger tiles are preferred this year (4 x 10 instead of 3 x 6).  If you want something unique, consider tiles handcrafted into Frank Lloyd Wright or Art Deco designs.

8.       LED lighting. Energy efficiency is critical, if not mandated by some states. LED lighting is both efficient and attractive. It is also becoming somewhat less expensive to purchase. The trend is clearly toward fewer larger fixtures.

9.       No desks. With the shift to smaller electronic devices, kitchen desks are not required. Re-charging stations are needed, however. You might choose a small counter area or a section of a pantry for this purpose.

10.   Think about safety. Never take shortcuts that could create fire hazards. Position oven and stove at a level that can be reached by everyone in your family. Ensure adequate lighting in all parts of the kitchen. Choose floor covering options that can help you avoid falls. Ask your contractor about a fire suppression system that will prevent re-ignition of the stove in the event of fire and other similar items.

These are 10 top trends in kitchen design and renovation. In a future post I’ll review trends in appliances.

If you are planning a kitchen remodel with a view to remaining in a home for ten years or more, you should feel greater freedom to make choices that fit your personal taste. If you plan to sell your home soon, it is more important to consider trends in buyer preference. If you are considering listing your home, please feel free to call me (206-230-0833) to discuss your kitchen remodel. I would be happy to spend some time discussing with you the preferences we are hearing from home buyers this year. Remember, I’ll bring the coffee.  

Benefits of Home Ownership and Five Financial Reasons to Buy a Home

By Ken Urman, Realtor

I discovered two excellent infographics about home ownership recently. I wanted to share them with you. I hope you find them both informative and helpful.

The first graphic presents the results of a recent study by the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University. The focus is on the financial reasons to buy a home. This resonated with me. My father used to say that home ownership was the best way to save money ( see reason number three below) .  

The second infographic was created by HouseLogic, a division of The National Association of Realtors. This large image outlines the benefits of home ownership to the home owner, the immediate community, the city, the state and the nation.

Many of us underestimate the difference home ownership makes to our personal net worth, to our ability to save and invest over our entire lifetime, and how this affects those around us.

 

Whether you are considering a home purchase – especially if you are considering buying your first home – or if you are ready to downsize and sell your lifelong investment, I am here to help you make the best decision to reach your financial goals. Give me a call if you are ready to consider your options and plan for your future.  Mobile: (206) 499-4948; Office: (206) 230-0833. Remember, I’ll bring the coffee.

Who is Buying Houses Today?

By Ken Urman, Realtor

The National Association of Realtors conducted a study of recent homebuyers. Here’s who is buying houses (by generation):

·         Gen Y                                                                    31%

·         Gen X                                                                    30%

·         Younger Baby Boomers                                    16%

·         Older Baby Boomers                                         14%

·         The Silent Generation                                          9%

 

Gen Y

·         aged 33 and younger, born between 1980 and 1995

·         76% are first-time home buyers

·         97% financed their home purchase

·         More than 50% used a mobile device in their search

·         About 25% found the home they purchased with a mobile device

·         Find realtors through friends, neighbors, relatives

·         74% said the major value of working with a realtor was understanding the buying process

·         They buy because they want to own a home

·         19% choose urban areas

·         Plan to stay in the home 10 years

·         37% say commuting cost is a major consideration in choosing location

·         About 20% had to delay purchasing a home because of student loan debt

Gen X

·         aged 34 to 48, born between 1965 and 1979

·         More than 50% used a mobile device in their search

·         About 25% found the home they purchased with a mobile device

·         found their real estate agent or broker through the recommendation of a friend, family member or neighbor

·         more likely to use the same real estate agent for their purchase as for the sale of their previous home

·         buying and/or selling a home out of the desire to own a home, because they want or need a larger home, or because they are relocating for a job

·         primary factors influencing their neighborhood choice are the quality of the neighborhood, convenience of the neighborhood to their job(s), and the quality and convenience of schools

·         plan to live in the homes they purchase for 15 years

·         highest income earners ($98,200)

·         largest proportion of married couples buying homes (72 percent)

·         largest group of buyers with children under the age of 18 in the home (67 percent)

·         19% said they were compelled to delay the sale of their previous home because it was worth less than their mortgage

·         15% had difficulty saving for a down-payment, with 46 percent pointing to credit card debt as the reason for the difficulty, and 35 percent pointing to student loan debt as the difficulty.

 

Younger Boomers

·         Aged 49-58, born between 1955 and 1964

·         33% are single

·         22% bought a multi-generational home

o   38% had children over 18 moving back home

o   18% cost savings

o   15% caring for aging parents

·         26% own more than one home (vacation, investment)

·         Plan to live in the home for 20 years

·         21% of recent home sellers

·         Reasons for selling: job relocation, home too large, neighborhood less desirable

·         10% delayed home sale because home was worth less than their mortgage

 

 

Older Boomers

·         Aged 59-67, born between 1946 and 1954

·         21% buy to avoid renovations or repairs of major house systems

·         Choose neighborhoods for convenience to friends and family, affordability, and convenience to shopping

·         27% own more than one home

·         Plan to live in home more than 20 years

·         22% of recent home sales

·         Top reasons to sell: move closer to friends and family, house too big, retirement

·         Most likely to move more than 36 miles; 22% moving to a new region

·         Typically downsizing square footage and cost

 

Silent Generation

·         Aged 68-88, born between 1925 and 1945

·         98% are repeat buyers

·         18% purchased a multi-generational home

o   27% care for aging parents

o   23% children over age 18 moving back in

o   21% cost savings

·         Choose neighborhood for convenience to friends and family, design of the home, proximity to shopping, design of neighborhood, affordability, proximity to health care facilities

·         Smallest percentage finance the purchase

·         Most moving 38 miles away

·         Top reasons to sell: move closer to friends and family, house too big, retirement

·         Typically downsizing square footage and cost

 

If you are considering buying a home, whether a first home, a larger house or a smaller house, I would be pleased to help you find the perfect house to meet your needs. If you are considering selling your home, I would be honored to help you with the sale to the right buyer. Whether buying or selling, I would like to discuss your goals and help you achieve them. Call me today at (206) 230-0833.

Get to Know the Mercer Island Estates Community

By Ken Urman, Realtor/Broker

 

The Mercer Island Estates community is located on the southern end of Mercer Island, near the Country Club. Development of the neighborhood as a “planned community” began in the 1960s. This beginning is evident in the large number of split level homes (very popular in the 1950s and 1960s) and level roads.

 

These level roads make the neighborhood a very popular place for riding bicycles, and many of the children in the neighborhood ride their bikes to school. Two well-known features within this neighborhood are Wildwood Park (one of the island’s two off-leash areas for dogs and their owners) and the Mercer Island Country Club, which offers swimming, tennis, fitness and other sports facilities to members.

 

Mercer Island Estates is very close to both Lakeridge Elementary School and Islander Middle School. It is also within comfortable walking distance of the Village Shopping Center (home of a very popular gathering place in the Starbucks). The South End Fire Station is also nearby, as is Pioneer Park. The park has been maintained in its natural forest condition and is divided into quadrants by roads. Residents enjoy the six-plus miles of walking trails and equestrian trails which are convenient to the Mercer Island Saddle Club located just outside the southeast quadrant of the park.

 

Mercer Island Estates is a very attractive neighborhood that offers a rare combination of qualities that include level topography, quiet streets, stores and schools within an easy walking distance, and a clear and definite neighborhood boundary. Seven homes in this neighborhood have sold in the last 360 days. There is currently one home for sale in Mercer Island Estates.  This 2,340 square foot single-level rambler has three bedrooms, 1.75 bathrooms, and is located in a quiet cul-de-sac.

 

If you would like to see this house or any other currently on the market, it would be my pleasure to help you find the perfect home for your family. If you are considering selling, I would be happy to sit down with you to discuss your goals and needs. Call me at (206) 230-0833.