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Quarterly Market Trends • South Snohomish County • October 17, 2018

South Snohomish County Quarterly Market Trends

by Andrea Wetzel

In September, the average days on market landed at 27 days and the original list-to-sale price ratio 98%. Since May, inventory growth has been noticeable, and has given buyers more options. This has led to more negotiations and fewer bidding wars, which is tempering month-over-month price growth to a more sustainable level. Back in April, the average days on market was 14 days and the original list-to-sale price ratio 104%; but months of inventory based on pending sales was 0.8 months, compared to 2.5 months currently. Year-over-year, prices are up 11%, still well above the historical norm of 3%-5% year-over-year gains—but note that the majority of this growth happened during the spring, due to constricted inventory levels.

Supply has increased, creating more options for buyers and helping to buffer affordability issues. Many sellers are deciding to make moves and cash in on the equity gained over the last six years. An average original list-to-sale price ratio of 98% is a positive return, yet illustrates a softening in the market after some very extreme times. With 11% price growth over the last 12-months in a seller’s favor, the increase in selection has led to more nimble moves from one house to another. Where sellers need to be careful is anticipating the month-over-month price growth we saw prior to the shift in inventory. Prospective buyers would be smart to take advantage of today’s historically low interest rates and the added inventory selection.

This is only a snapshot of the trends in south Snohomish County; please contact me if you would like further explanation of how the latest trends relate to you.

North Snohomish County • Quarterly Market Trends • October 17, 2018

North Snohomish County Quarterly Market Trends

by Andrea Wetzel

In September, the average days on market landed at 29 days and the original list-to-sale price ratio at 98%. Since May, inventory growth has been noticeable, and has given buyers more options. This has led to more negotiations and fewer bidding wars, which is tempering month-over-month price growth to a more sustainable level. Back in May, the average days on market was 22 days and the original list-to-sale price ratio 101%; but months of inventory based on pending sales was 1 month compared to 2.3 months currently. Year-over-year, prices are up 11%, still well above the historical norm of 3%-5% year-over-year gains—but note that the majority of this growth happened during the spring, due to constricted inventory levels.

Supply has increased, creating more options for buyers and helping to buffer affordability issues. Many sellers are deciding to make moves and cash in on the equity gained over the last six years. An average original list-to-sale price ratio of 98% is a positive return, yet illustrates a softening in the market after some very extreme times. With 11% price growth over the last 12-months in a seller’s favor, the increase in selection has led to more nimble moves from one house to another. Where sellers need to be careful is anticipating the month-over-month price growth we saw prior to the shift in inventory. Prospective buyers would be smart to take advantage of today’s historically low interest rates and the added inventory selection.

This is only a snapshot of the trends in north Snohomish County; please contact me if you would like further explanation of how the latest trends relate to you.

Newsletter • September 29, 2018

Monthly Newsletter

by Andrea Wetzel

With the sharpest increase of available homes for sale in years, more opportunities are now available for buyers, including first-timers. Many first-time home buyers have sat on the sidelines and remained renters due to the constriction of inventory, which put major pressure on price affordability. Not only has affordability been an issue, but the terms required to prevail in a multiple-offer situation were often not within reach for someone entering the market for the first time.

For example, over the last 12 months in the Seattle Metro area we have seen a 66% increase in the selection of homes for buyers to choose from. There is currently 1.8 months of available inventory based on pending sales versus 0.8 months that was available the same month last year. This is still a seller’s market (0-3 months), but it is providing more than twice as much selection than a year ago. This loosening up of the market has helped to temper price growth by reducing the amount of price escalations and the need to have super aggressive financing terms in order to secure a home.

You see, over the last 3-4 years we have experienced double-digit price appreciation (10-14%) year-over-year, each year. A normal rate of appreciation is 3-5%. Minimal amounts of available inventory, low interest rates, and rapid job growth lead to this increase in prices. Now that more homes are coming to market and job growth has stabilized a bit (still growing, but not as fast), price growth has slowed. This is good news for sustainability and affordability. Here’s the deal though – we are still experiencing growth in values, making home ownership a sound investment over renting.

According to the most recent survey from rentcafe.com, the average rent for an apartment in Seattle is $1,906 with an average square footage of 736 sq. ft. That is quite a bit of money for not a ton of space. Further, that monthly expenditure does not create any wealth for the renter, only for the landlord. With renting, rates can be increased at any time, and you are paying down someone else’s asset, not your own. Also, owning gives the homeowner control of their overhead, while getting to make their house their home by adding improvements such as painting.

There are several factors to consider that will lead a person to make the best decision for their lifestyle and their financial bottom line. One of the biggest factors is interest rates! Currently, the rate for a 30-year fixed, conventional, conforming loan is hovering around 4.88%. Up from earlier this year and predicted to rise, but still historically low over the course of the last 30 years. These rates need to be considered the greatest opportunity of them all! With prices tempering and rates still under the 30-year average of 6.65%, buyers are able to secure a sound investment with very low debt service.

With interest rates predicted to rise over the next year, a good rule of thumb to remember is that for every one-point increase in rate, a buyer loses 10% of their buying power. For example, if the rate jumps from 4.75% to 5.75% and one wants to keep the same monthly payment, they must adjust their price point down by 10%. So, a $450,000 budget becomes a $405,000 budget, and that isn’t taking appreciation into consideration. If you assume an average appreciation rate of 4% year-over-year, today’s $450,000 house will be $468,000 next year. What side of the equity growth do you want to be on? As an owner now, or a buyer a year from now, when prices are higher and interest rates are most likely higher as well?

Once you secure a mortgage, the payment stays the same over the term of the entire loan. The long-term benefits of owning are abundant, including the stability of not being asked to move. These are important factors to consider for everyone, but especially millennials, who are enjoying the benefits of Seattle’s attractive job market. One myth to address is the common belief that you must have a 20% down payment in order to buy a home. That is simply not true. There are loan programs as low as 3% down, decreasing the need to have a large sum of money saved up before being able to buy.

Where folks are having to compromise the most due to affordability is commute times, and settling in less-urban neighborhoods. Worth pointing out, is the average home price in south Snohomish County is 34% less than Seattle Metro – that is a huge savings! Further, south King County is 74% more affordable than Seattle. Some people, mainly millennials, have not been willing to give up living in the core urban neighborhoods that have high walk scores and shorter commute times. That should be apt to change with more selection available in the purchase market, coupled with low interest rates. The advantages of moving out a little further and securing a home will start people on the track of building long-term wealth. If you or anyone you know is currently renting and is considering a change, please let me know, as I would be happy to get their questions answered and help them make an informed decision.

 

 

Don’t Wait for a Disaster to Build Your Emergency Kit

Two Weeks Ready: Be Prepared. Build Kits. Help Each Other.

The first few days after a disaster are often the most critical. Government and essential services may not be available right away, depending on the circumstances. It is imperative to have a plan in place for such a time, and be ready to act on your own.

Washington’s biggest disaster threat is from earthquakes. Washington State’s Emergency Management Division advises that we take precautions to be on our own for at least 2 weeks. Take a look at their Two Week Ready Brochure (PDF) that outlines the basics necessary for your emergency kit. While it is important to get ready, don’t feel like you have to do it all at once. The list of necessities is long, so take a look at the agency’s year-long prep plan. You will also find information on pet preparedness, as well as the agency’s Drop, Cover, and Hold Earthquake Scenario map.

 

#TackleHomelessness Update

During last weekend’s win against Dallas, the Seattle Seahawks had 46 defensive tackles, raising another $4,600 for Windermere’s #TackleHomelessness campaign. Combined with what we’ve raised over the past two seasons, this brings our to-date grand total to $71,400! All season long we’ll be partnering with the Seahawks to raise money for YouthCare in support of homeless youth.

Community Information • September 3, 2018

Pumpkin Patch Guide 2018

by Andrea Wetzel

Nothing feels more like fall than pumpkin picking, hay rides and corn mazes. Get your latte in hand and head out to any one of these great, local farms to have some harvest fun and find that perfect jack-o-lantern to light up your porch.

Times, dates & activities may change, please use the links provided for details.

 

KING COUNTY

Baxter Barn
31929 SE 44th St, Fall City
Pumpkin patch, tractor-pulled hay rides, fresh eggs, gift shop, pony rides, picnic area, farm animals

Carpinito Brothers
1148 Central Ave N, Kent
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, farm fun yard, hay rides, produce stand, concessions

Fall City Farms
3636 Neal Road, Fall City
Pumpkin patch, tractor-pulled hay rides, fresh honey, pre-picked produce, farm animals, snacks and refreshments.

Fox Hollow Family Farm
12031 Issaquah Hobart Rd SE, Issaquah
Pumpkins for sale, hay bale maze, bouncy house, face painting, haunted house, pony rides, petting zoo, farm animals, concessions

Jubilee Farm
229 W Snoqualmie River Rd NE, Carnation
Pumpkins, horse-drawn covered wagon rides, hay rides, hay bale maze

Oxbow Farm
10819 Carnation-Duvall Rd NE, Carnation
Pumpkins, produce, picnic area, playground

Mosby Farm Pumpkin Patch
12747-b South East Green Valley Rd, Auburn
Pumpkin patch, corn maze,  tractor-pulled hay rides, snacks and refreshment stand, picnic area

The Nursery at Mt Si
42328 SE 108th St, North Bend
Pumpkin patch, tractor-pulled hay rides

Remlinger Farms
32610 NE 32nd St, Carnation
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, animal barnyard, pony rides, steam train, hay jump

Serres Farm
20306 NE 50th St, Redmond
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, duck races, animal train

Thomasson Family Farm
38223 236th Ave SE, Enumclaw
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, kids korral, tractor train rides, pumpkin sling shot

Tonnemaker Valley Farm, Woodinville Farm Stand
16215 140th Pl NE, Woodinville
You-pick pumpkin patch, you-pick flowers, produce stand, on-site pepper roasting on Saturdays

 

SNOHOMISH COUNTY

Biringer’s Black Crow Pumpkins & Corn Maze
2431 Highway 530 NE, Arlington
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, straw or hay bale maze, tractor-pulled hay rides, farm market, picnic area

Bob’s Corn & Pumpkin Farm
10917 Elliott Rd, Snohomish
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, bonfire & picnic area, hay rides, pony rides, playground, concessions

Carleton Farm
630 Sunnyside Blvd SE, Lake Stevens
Pumpkin patch, train rides, corn maze, haunted corn maze, tractor-pulled hay rides, farm animals, farm market

Craven Farm
13817 Short School Rd, Snohomish
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, tractor-pulled hay rides, face painting, farm animals, snacks & refreshment stand

The Farm at Swans Trail
7301 Rivershore Rd, Snohomish
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, pick your own apples, pig & duck races, petting zoo, putt-putt golf and more

Fairbank Animal Farm & Pumpkin Patch
15308 52nd Ave W, Edmonds
Pumpkins, petting zoo, farm animals, picnic area

Fosters Pumpkin Farm
5818 State Route 530 NE, Arlington
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, hay bale maze, corn cannon, pre-picked produce, face painting, farm animals, snacks and refreshment stand, picnic area

Stocker Farms
8705 Marsh Rd, Snohomish
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, haunted corn maze, tractor-pulled hay rides, jumping pillow and more

Thomas Family Farm
9010 Marsh Road, Snohomish
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, monster truck rides, haunted house, gem mining, Zombie Safari Paintball Hayride, beer garden, putt-putt golf and more

 

PIERCE COUNTY

Double R Farms
5820 44th St E, Puyallup
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, hay rides, farm animals, pumpkin sling shot

Maris Farms
25001 Sumner-Buckley Hwy, Buckley
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, haunted woods, farm animals, hay ride, trout fishing, play ground

Picha’s Farm
6502 52nd St E, Puyallup
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, hay ride, pumpkin sling shot, concessions

Scholz Farm
12920 162nd Ave E, Orting
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, play area

Spooner Farms
9622 SR 162 E, Puyallup
Pumpkin patch, farm animals, face painting, pumpkin sling shot, concessions

Community Information • September 3, 2018

Don’t Wait for a Disaster to Build Your Emergency Kit

by Andrea Wetzel

Two Weeks Ready: Be Prepared. Build Kits. Help Each Other.

The first few days after a disaster are often the most critical. Government and essential services may not be available right away, depending on the circumstances. It is imperative to have a plan in place for such a time, and be ready to act on your own.

Washington’s biggest disaster threat is from earthquakes. Washington State’s Emergency Management Division advises that we take precautions to be on our own for at least 2 weeks. Take a look at their Two Week Ready Brochure (PDF) that outlines the basics necessary for your emergency kit. While it is important to get ready, don’t feel like you have to do it all at once. The list of necessities is long, so take a look at the agency’s year-long prep plan. You will also find information on pet preparedness, as well as the agency’s Drop, Cover, and Hold Earthquake Scenario map.

Community Information • September 3, 2018

Windermere and the Seahawks are Back for Another Season to #TackleHomelessness!

by Andrea Wetzel

All of us at Windermere are very excited to kick off our third season as the Official Real Estate Company of the Seattle Seahawks!

Once again, our #tacklehomelessness campaign is front-and-center, with the Windermere Foundation donating $100 for every Seahawks home-game tackle during the 2018 season to YouthCare, a Seattle-based non-profit organization that has been providing services and support to homeless youth for more than 40 years. Over the last two years, the Seahawks helped us raise over $66,000 through our #tacklehomelessness campaign, and this year we are looking forward to raising even more money – and awareness – for this important cause.

Our partnership with the Seahawks and YouthCare fits perfectly with the mission of the Windermere Foundation which is to support low-income and homeless families in the communities where we have offices. Through the #tacklehomelessness campaign, we hope to be able to do even more.

Community Information • September 3, 2018

Windermere Foundation Update

by Andrea Wetzel

Thanks to the generosity of Windermere agents, staff, franchise owners, and the community, the Windermere Foundation has proudly donated a total of $920,351 so far this year to non-profit organizations that provide services to low-income and homeless families. This brings the total amount of money that the Windermere Foundation has raised since 1989 to over $36 million. We could not accomplish these numbers without the unwavering loyalty and support of clients like you – thank you!

Each Windermere office has its own Foundation fund account that we use to help organizations in our own local community. This past year, my office had the privilege to: provide 26 foster boys a plentiful Christmas morning; give full holiday dinners plus additional groceries to families receiving aid from Pioneer Human Services; spend a full day helping the Snohomish Garden Club plant thousands of pounds of fresh produce for local food banks; and send 40 kids to YMCA Camps Orkila and Colman who would not have otherwise had the opportunity.

Thank you for choosing Windermere and making all of this possible. Your impact is meaningful, and together we are changing lives.

Newsletter • September 3, 2018

Monthly Newsletter

by Andrea Wetzel

Keeping Price Growth in Perspective,
Opportunities Abound for Both Buyers and Sellers

 

“How’s the Market?” is a question I am asked all the time. It is a common segue in casual conversation over the neighbor’s fence, at a cocktail party or family gathering. Now more than ever, the answer to this question is critical, yet fascinating. You see, our market is experiencing a long-awaited correction, a tempering of price appreciation. This is providing great opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

For so long, inventory has been so limited that prices have had nowhere else to go but up, and up fast! In May, we saw the largest jump in new listings in a decade, which created a slowdown in month-over-month price appreciation. This was especially exacerbated due to the scarcity of inventory in the first quarter of the year when many jobs were being filled by big companies in the area, skyrocketing demand. The graphs above illustrate the price growth in both King and Snohomish Counties. If you average out the last 12 months and compare to the previous 12 months, prices are up 14% in King County and 13% in Snohomish County. Due to a large increase in inventory and other factors, we have seen prices start to balance out since May.

Additional factors that play into this healthy adjustment on the run-up of prices are interest rates, affordability, and Seattle summertime. First, interest rates have been dancing. They have climbed over a half a point from a year ago, which has been coupled with double-digit price growth, forcing many buyers to take a step back. Bear in mind that interest rates are still under 5% and well below the 30-year average of 6.61%. This must be taken to heart!

Affordability has been a huge factor that played into the reduction of absorption rate once the increase in new listings hit this Spring. This was especially true in King County. Prices peaked so far this year at $725,000 in April, whereas they peaked in Snohomish County at $510,000 in June. This is simple supply and demand, as buyers have had more selection. Further, many buyers turned their heads north to find a more affordable option while still sustaining a manageable commute.

The bottom line is that it just got too expensive for some to make King County their home, even Snohomish County for that matter. Combine that with an influx of selection, and you find the top of the market so far in 2018. This is not a bad thing! We must keep the double-digit, year-over-year price appreciation in perspective, and trust that the market factors which led to prices balancing out are healthy. A typical appreciation rate is 3-5%. Matthew Gardner, Windermere’s Chief Economist, predicts that we will finish out 2018 with 7-8% appreciation over 2017, which is well above the norm of 3-5%. Sustainable growth is important to the overall health of our economy and culture; this provides opportunity.

Buyers take heed. As we come out of the Seattle summertime seasonal slowdown, we anticipate a little run on new listings in September and October. Note on the graph above that we seasonally see prices peak in the late spring and early summer, due to many folks taking time to enjoy the summer months traveling and relaxing a bit. If you have been a sidelined buyer or have been thinking about making a move, the remainder of 2018 may be your time to enjoy more selection, still-low interest rates, and the chance to secure the best home for your lifestyle.

Interest rates are still attractive (historically attractive) and are predicted to rise. Plus, selection has increased, making negotiations not as intense. Multiple offers are not always the norm these days, which provides some breathing room for luxuries like inspections and relying on the bank’s appraisal to confirm value. Also, if you are a buyer that needs to sell a home first in order to purchase, this environment is much more forgiving. Believe it or not, we have even started to see contingent offers make a comeback.

This was one reason why we saw such a limit on inventory, because folks were not able to make fluid moves, so they just uncomfortably stayed put. It was the many baby boomers who came to market this spring and summer who relocated out of the area that loosened this up, paving the way for the local first-time, move-up, or move-down buyer to have some opportunity to transition.

So what does all this mean for potential sellers? Well, a lot! The word of the day is perspective. You must keep a close connection to the double-digit, year-over-year price appreciation we have seen over the last three years, and come to terms with today’s balancing out. Great equity gains are behind every homeowner who has owned their home since 2012. If that equity has been cared for, there are large profits to turn, even though you might not get multiple offers. All it takes is one good buyer for a successful sale!

It is all about what is motivating you. If a move seems interesting or imminent, chances are you can take that equity and turn it into something that better matches your current lifestyle. This is where a detailed assessment of the features of your home, along with an analysis of market conditions can be developed into a winning strategy. This does not come easy and requires in-depth research, close attention to condition and comparable homes, and outstanding marketing and merchandising.

Where I have seen the most opportunity is when sellers partner up and listen to the professional assessment of all of these factors. It often leads to satisfying results with one buyer, or believe it or not, the occasional multiple offer. Our market is exciting, but it takes skill to set level expectations, which leads to positive results.

If you or someone you know is curious about “How’s the Market?”, please reach out. Education and explanation are key to awareness, which leads to clarity. I love what I do and look forward to the opportunity to serve during this changing time. It is my goal to help keep my clients informed and empower strong decisions.

 

 

We are so fortunate here at Windermere to have Matthew Gardner help keep us informed on our economy and the real estate market. Each quarter Matthew compiles in-depth research on counties from across Western Washington. Click here to download Matthew’s full Q2 report.

 

 

Summer is quickly coming to a close, and it’s time to think about prepping your yard for fall.  Here are a few quick tips to get you started, and a full article here.

Fertilizing

All summer long, plants and grass are using up nutrients in the soil. After months of growing, your soil’s reserves become depleted, which is why a fall fertilizer is great to restore nutrients and give your grass, shrubs, and perennials a boost to help them make it through winter. It is recommended to fertilize once every season.

Stop Pruning and Watering

Late summer and fall might seem like a good time to prune dead flowers and branches, but several experts recommend waiting until spring to prune anything. Pruning stimulates new growth, but with the frost coming, chances are this new growth won’t survive. Pruning also interferes with the plant when it is going dormant.

In late September, you should also stop watering your plants to help them go dormant as well.

Furnace Filter

Okay, this isn’t really a yard tip but it’s still important, and after all this smoke – critical! It’s recommended that you change your furnace filter at least every three months, if not more often. Having a clean furnace filter will make the air circulating through your house cleaner, and will put less stress on your heating and air systems.

Woodinville • August 29, 2018

5 Must-Visit Businesses in Downtown Woodinville

by Andrea Wetzel
WindermereNorth_Woodinville_Molbacks-1024x699.jpg
No one knows downtown Woodinville better than our very own residents. From the best places to hang out to premier pet-friendly services, we have your inside scoop!

Here is a look at 5 spots (plus one annual event!) to explore in downtown Woodinville, as recommended by locals: 

Molbak’s Garden + Home

Located at 13625 NE 175th St. Woodinville, WA 98072

A popular local spot, Molbak’s Garden + Home has everything you could need to fix up your yard or give your home the love it deserves. Homeware, kitchen gadgets, outdoor dining sets, gardening tools, and much, much more are offered here, plus design services ideal for filling your landscape with beautiful flower arrangements and container gardens.

Molbak’s isn’t just for shopping though, as Kim Harman explains. “Molbak’s Garden and Home is a great place to gather with friends, grab a cup of coffee, stroll around the nursery or enjoy a bite to eat at Russell’s Garden Café & Wine Bar located within the store.” With special events and donations to the community, Molbak’s is a staple that residents cannot get enough of! 

21 Acres Center

Located at 13701 NE 171st St. Woodinville, WA 98072

If you want to learn more about the sustainable food movement right here in Woodinville, check out 21 Acres. “I always enjoy visiting 21 Acres,” says Kim Harman. “The Center focuses on local food, farming & sustainable living. The Center brings the community together with local farmers and vendors. You can take an education class on sustainable living, enjoy a variety of cooking classes, or pop into one of their many community events. The marketplace is open throughout the week with fresh and delicious local produce and products.” Discover how you can help yourself, your community, and the world at large at this innovative center!

The Pet Wash

Located at 13317 NE 175th St. Woodinville, WA 98072

If your pup is looking a little scruffy, take him down to the Pet Wash. “The Pet Wash, located on the main drag in Woodinville, is a great place to have your pooch groomed,” shares Becky Larsen. “They also have self wash stations if you want to wash Fido yourself. Great service, reasonable prices and a wonderful staff. It’s nice to have trusted owners who really love and care for your pet.”

With state-of-the-art bathing systems and virtually every type of shampoo, conditioner, and grooming tool imaginable supplied onsite, they have exactly what you need to make your furry friend look and feel like royalty.

Homeward Pet Adoption Center

Located at 13132 NE 177th Pl. Woodinville, WA 98072

If you’re still looking for that “fur”ever friend, check out Homeward Pet Adoption Center. “We got our dog at Homeward Pet in Woodinville,” shares Lynette Hensley. “Of all the shelters we visited, we appreciated the experience here most of all. Not because this is where we found our dog, but because of the way they worked with us, talking through expectations, hopes, compatibility. We spent a long time with a few dogs, and with our chosen pup too.”

Scott’s Soccer Tots at Woodinville Indoor Sports

Located at 12728 NE 178th St. Woodinville, WA 98072

If you’ve got a future soccer star on your hands, sign him or her up for the Scott’s Soccer Tots program. “Scott’s Soccer Tots [at the] Woodinville Indoor Sports Facility [is] a great indoor soccer structure for year round play for little guys, youth, and great soccer summer camps,” shares Becky Larsen. “Our kids loved the lessons, and you can have birthday parties there too!” For anyone wondering about the name, Larsen clears that question up: “Of course there really is a ‘Scott!’”

*BONUS TIP!*

Celebrate Woodinville Festival

Located at various locations throughout downtown Woodinville

If you’re in downtown Woodinville on August 19, 2017, you will definitely want to check out the Celebrate Woodinville Festival: “Our family loves to attend the annual Basset Hound Bash/Woodinville All Fools’ Day Parade every August,” shares Kim Harman. “We kick off the morning with the pancake breakfast hosted at the local fire department, grab a seat on the parade route to watch the floats and dozens of basset hounds go by. It’s a fun-filled day at the farmer’s market with live music, art/craft vendors, food, wine and beer.” From 8:00am to 5:00pm, this yearly event is sure to be a great time for all ages!

Woodinville • August 29, 2018

Exploring Wine in Woodinville: 15 Wineries Not to Miss + Tasting Room Tips!

by Andrea Wetzel
WindermereNorth_Woodinville_ChateauStMichelle-1024x683.jpg
According to our own Kim Harman, “wine tasting in Woodinville is a fabulous experience. Local wineries and dozens of tasting rooms [are] available to explore. [It’s] fun to learn about the winemaking process and talk to people who are knowledgeable and passionate about the local wine.”

Jen Bowman agrees, noting “It’s world class wine country in our own backyard! Tasting rooms for every palate from boutique distilleries like Woodinville Whiskey to the mega winery Chateau Ste Michelle…”

Here is a look at 15 wineries (+1 “honorable mention”) plus insider tips in Woodinville:

Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery

  • Located at 14111 NE 145th St. Woodinville, WA 98072
  • Hours: 10:00am-5:00pm

With a historic charm and unparalleled tasting experiences, it is not hard to see why Chateau Ste. Michelle is an award-winning winery. Dating back to the repeal of the Prohibition, Chateau Ste. Michelle has produced premier wines for 50 years; from vintage whites and reds to local bottles and much more, you will find a wine to suit every occasion. The Chateau offers various unique tours and tastings ranging from $10-$100 per person. You can learn more about these tastings here.

Patterson Cellars

  • Located at 19501 144th Ave. NE D-600 Woodinville, WA 98072 (Warehouse District Winery & Tasting Room); 14505 148th Ave. NE Woodinville, WA 98072 (Hollywood Hill Tasting Room)
  • Hours: Warehouse District: 3:00pm-7:00pm Friday, 12:00pm-5:00pm Saturday-Sunday; Hollywood Hills: 12:00pm-7:00pm Monday-Thursday, 12:00pm-9:00pm Friday-Saturday, 12:00pm-6:00pm Sunday

If you’re not exactly a wine connoisseur but still enjoy a glass now and then, you’ll appreciate the selection at Patterson Cellars. Winemaker and owner John Patterson has been creating approachable wines since 2000. Each red, white, and rose is crafted in the new world style and includes knowledgeable descriptions on the taste and food pairings.

You can join Patterson himself at the Warehouse District Winery for a tasting, or, if you’re looking for something more cozy, at the Hollywood Hills Tasting Room for a seat by the fireplace and some live music. Each flight costs $10, but this can be waived with a minimum $25 wine purchase.

JM Cellars

  • Located at 14404 137th Pl. NE Woodinville, WA 98072
  • Hours: 11:00am-4:00pm Friday-Sunday (final pour at 3:45pm)

A required visit for wine tourists, JM Cellars combines delicious wines with the love and care that can only come from a family-run business. Owners John and Peggy have ensured that the grapes they receive are sustainably and organically grown, with the grapes from Margaret’s Vineyard specifically being clones of ones from the Bordeaux region of France. This makes for a small but high-quality selection of limited-release red, white, and rose wines with tastes that cannot be found anywhere else in North America.

You can get a sample of these unique wines at JM Cellars for $15 per person (waived with a $45 wine purchase). To learn more about scheduling your tasting at JM Cellars, click here.

Aspenwood Cellars Winery

  • Located at 18642 142nd Ave. NE Woodinville, WA 98072
  • Hours: 12:00pm-5:00pm Saturday-Sunday (March-November); 12:00pm-4:00pm Saturday-Sunday (December-February)

Dedicated to selling the community only the highest quality wines, Aspenwood Cellars knows that “great wine is made in the vineyard.” Over the years, Aspenwood has worked with some of the best local vineyards to produce merlots, cabernets, syrahs, and more with bold tastes that can only come from step-by-step care and preparation. To learn more about how you can taste test some of these wonderful wines for yourself, click here.

Airfield Estates Woodinville Tasting Room

  • Located at 14450 Redmond-Woodinville Rd. NE #109 Woodinville, WA 98072
  • Hours: 11:00am-5:00pm Sunday-Wednesday & 11:00am-6:00pm Thursday-Saturday (January-April); 11:00am-6:00pm Sunday-Wednesday & 11:00am-7:00pm Thursday-Sunday (May-December)

For a winery visit unlike any other, check out Airfield Estates. A portion of this winery’s property once served as a training base for Army Air Corps. pilots during World War II and a few of the original planes can still be seen on site as farm storage facilities. Each wine at Airfield Estates is grown at the estate and features names that reflect its heritage, like “Hellcat” and “Aviator.”

Wine tastings are an affordable $5 per person (or $160 per person for the VIP experience) and reservations can be made here.

Celaeno Winery

  • Located at 15007 Redmond-Woodinville Rd. NE Woodinville, WA 98072
  • Hours: 1:00pm-5:00pm Friday; 12:00pm-5:00pm Saturday-Sunday

Producing fine wines of distinction and character, Celaeno Winery is one of Woodinville’s hidden gems. Winemaker Brian Countryman not only proves to be an entertaining and personable host at all wine tastings, but also works carefully with select Washington vineyards to create syrahs, viogniers, and other wines that are both light and full of delicious flavors. To find out more about how you can schedule a wine tasting at this great establishment, contact Celaeno Winery today.

Sparkman Cellars

  • Located at 19501 144th Ave. NE E-400 Woodinville, WA 98072 (Warehouse District Winery & Tasting Room); 14473 Woodinville-Redmond Rd. Woodinville, WA 98072 (Hollywood Hills Tourist District Tasting Room)
  • Hours: Warehouse District: 1:00pm-5:00pm Saturday-Sunday (new summer hours: 12:00pm-6:00pm Saturday); Hollywood Hills: 1:00pm-6:00pm (new summer hours: 12:00pm-7:00pm Saturday)

With a simple tagline of “Family. Good Livin’. Damn Fine Wine,” Sparkman Cellars is a labor of love started by the Sparkman family back in 2004. Producing award-winning wines like its 2013 Holler Cabernet Sauvignon and 2013 Birdie Riesling, the winery works with the best vineyards in the Northwest and gives the Sparkmans the opportunity to give back to the community and combine art, science, agriculture, philosophy, and “all the Good Stuff from Life” into something that everyone can enjoy. You can visit Sparkman Cellar at its Warehouse District or Hollywood Hills Tasting Room for a delicious experience!

Kestrel Vintners

  • Located at 19501 144th Ave. NE C-900 Woodinville, WA 98072
  • Hours: 12:00pm-5:00pm Thursday-Friday (live music 5:00pm-8:00pm Friday); 12:00pm-6:00pm Saturday-Sunday; by appointment Monday-Wednesday

With a 126-acre estate vineyard, Kestrel Vintners promises to bring you the best tastes that the Yakima Valley can offer. Combining old world methodology with new world techniques, they create wines that give you a real sense of place and unmatched passion, wisdom, hospitality, and stewardship. You can try any of four series of wines (the Artist Series, the Falcon Series, the Winemaker’s Select series, or the Signature Series) at Kestrel’s Woodinville Cellar & Tasting Room.

Guardian Cellars

  • Located at 14525 148th Ave. NE #122 Woodinville, WA 98072 (Tasting Room); 19501 144th Ave. NE E-600 Woodinville, WA, 98072 (Newsprint Tasting Room)
  • Hours: Tasting Room: 12:00pm-5:00pm Monday-Thursday, 12:00pm-7:00pm Friday-Saturday, 12:00pm-6:00pm Sunday; Newsprint Tasting Room: 12:00pm-5:00pm Saturday-Sunday

With full-time jobs as a police officer and a reporter, the owners of Guardian Cellars made a leap and opened their own winery! The risk has definitely paid off, as Guardian continues to grow and serve the Woodinville area some of the most stellar red, white, and rose wines around.

You can check out these amazing sips at their Tasting Room for $15 per person or their special Newsprint Tasting Room for $10 per person (the Newsprint Tasting Room is only open when wines are available, so be sure to check their Facebook page for updates before scheduling).

DeLille Cellars

  • Located at 14421 Woodinville-Redmond Rd. NE Woodinville, WA 98072
  • Hours: 12:00pm-5:00pm Sunday-Thursday; 12:00pm-7:00pm Friday; 11:00am-5:00pm Saturday

Founded in 1992, DeLille Cellars brings complex tastes and Bordeaux tradition to Woodinville. Its Chaleur Estate Rouge and D2 wines are blended from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, while the Chaleur Estate Blanc blends together Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, creating diverse aromas and a classic structure that showcases the purity of the fruit that defines Washington State’s territory.

DeLille offers tastings in their Carriage House Tasting Room, with a fee of $20-$30 per person, depending on party size. Grab your friends and prepare to spend a luxurious afternoon at DeLille Cellars.

Alexandria Nicole Cellars

  • Located at 14810 NE 145th St. Woodinville, WA 98072
  • Hours: 11:00am-5:00pm Monday-Saturday; 12:00pm-5:00pm Sunday; Wine Down Fridays: 5:00pm-8:00pm

With an onsite vineyard, Alexandria Nicole Cellars has complete control over the quality of its wine from bud to bottle. The 267 acres of planted vines include 23 varietals that, through attentive management and sustainable practices, create a wide variety of fabulous red and white wines (a complete list of the types of wines produced at Alexandria Nicole Cellars can be found here).

You can get a sample of these wines at Alexandria Nicole’s Hollywood Schoolhouse Tasting Room for a $20 tasting fee or $30 reserve tasting upon appointment. To learn more about Alexandria Nicole’s Hollywood Schoolhouse Tasting Room, click here.

Columbia Winery

  • Located at 14030 NE 145th St. Woodinville, WA 98072
  • Hours: 11:00am-6:00pm Saturday-Thursday; 11:00am-7:00pm Friday

Founded in 1962 by a group of 10 friends, Columbia Winery proves the potential of winegrowing in the Columbia Valley. Its portfolio of Cabernet Sauvignons, Chardonnays, and some of the best Washington wines selected from exceptional vineyard sites help to create one of the state’s most premium wineries.

You can enjoy a tasting at Columbia Winery for $12 per person, which includes a selection of unique Northwest-inspired culinary offerings to further enhance your experience.

Mark Ryan Winery

  • Located at 14475 Woodinville-Redmond Rd. Woodinville, WA 98072
  • Hours: 12:00pm-5:00pm Monday-Friday; 12:00pm-6:00pm Saturday-Sunday; Happy Hour: 5:00pm-7:00pm Thursday-Friday

Founded in 1999 and settled in Woodinville in 2003, Mark Ryan Winery is dedicated to making delicious wines that represent the vineyard from which they come. Owner Mark Ryan McNeilly is largely self-taught and through rigorous study and the advice of some of the area’s most experienced producers, crafts unique flavors like his 2014 Dead Horse, Water Witch, and Long Haul red wines. For a taste of what Mark Ryan Winery has to offer, visit their tasting room in Woodinville!

Novelty Hill/Januik Wineries

  • Located at 14710 Woodinville-Redmond Rd. NE Woodinville, WA 98072
  • Hours: 11:00am-5:00pm

What could be better that one winery? How about two! Novelty Hill and Januik Wineries came together in 2000 under the winemaking helm of renowned vintner Mike Januik. They focus on the creation of limited release and premium varietal clone wines, with only the best fruit and detailed concentration put into each bottle.

If you’d like a chance to try these wines for yourself, you can choose from a variety of 5 different tasting experiences to suit your needs. To learn more about the tasting experiences at Novelty Hill/Januik Wineries, click here.

Efeste

  • Located at 19730 144th Ave. NE Woodinville, WA 98072
  • Hours: 12:00pm-5:00pm

With award-winning wines, Efeste proves that sometimes less is more. This winery follows a minimal winemaking approach, which includes native fermentation that gives each wine the unique taste of the vineyard from which it came.

The Efeste family label of red and white wines can be experienced daily for a tasting fee of $15 (or complimentary with membership in the Wine Club). For directions and more information on visiting Efeste for a tasting, click here.

 

*BONUS TIP!*

Woodinville Whiskey Co.

  • Located at 14509 Woodinville Redmond Rd. NE Woodinville, WA. 98072
  • Hours: 11:00am-5:00pm

There’s more to Woodinville than just wine! If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, check out Woodinville Whiskey Co. This distillery features four different styles of smooth whiskey made from only the finest ingredients in Washington State, plus all of the supplies you need to make your own whiskey at home.

For a taste of some of the best homemade whiskey around, grab $10 (for the tasting fee) and head to Woodinville Whiskey Co.

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