Special offer

Port Townsend, WA Real Estate News

By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
Port Townsend is a special place for any golfer.  Temperate climates, only 19"of rainfall and very few days with  snow on the ground, plus 15 hours of daylight in summer makes a perfect environment for year round golf.  There are two courses in Port Townsend, and many more in the surrounding areas within a 30-45 min. drive.  Both clubs have organized play, both mens and ladies groups,  plus special events and  tournaments all year long.  Port Townsend Community Golf Course 1948 Blaine Street The location in the heart of town makes for easy access in your golf cart from most of Port Townsend.    This nine hole, public course is open year round, and you can walk the course if you prefer.   Fees range from $12.50 for 9 holes to $25.00 for 18 holes, with money saving passes and special rate...
Comments 0
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
I live around the corner from this project and yet knew nothing about it.  I was walking my dogs and came upon a class of  Port Townsend High School seniors taking a field trip to see this experimental garden which will be grown with less water than normal farms.   This farm is located in an area know as "Happy Valley" which is sheltered from the wind, and has sunshine all day.                                    The land belongs to a Port Townsend citizen and was donated for this project.  The crops are  varied and planted in rows with white wooden markers.  There are 19 varieties of wheat, 18 varieties are a trial for Washington State University.  Wheat is the most widely cultivated plant in the world.  There are also rows of  flax, corn, barley, oats, amaranth (which has 16% more prot...
Comments 0
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
Incredible and unique center for the arts Over 30 years ago some visionary citizens had an idea of a better use for the old, sprawling 1890's army base on the waterfront in Port Townsend called Fort Worden.  This was the beginning of Centrum,  a unique center for education and enjoyment of the arts, serving local citizens and visitors from all over the world. The facilities of Fort Worden include many buildings that were barracks, officers quarters, shops, hospital, theater, chapel, along with bunkers, acres of forest with trails, and a gorgeous shoreline with lighthouse.  It is also home to award winning Copper Canyon Press, Goddard College and a Woodworking School.  There is also a relatively new conference center and Coffe Shop.  (If you saw the movie "An Officer and a Gentleman" you...
Comments 2
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
Chief Chetzamoka was head of the local Clallum Indian Tribe.  In 1851 he befriended the white settlers who came to Port Townsend, and this gorgeous park was dedicated to him.  Chetzamoka is one of my dog's favorite words, right up there next to "beach".                Chief Chetzamoka                                       !860's photo of Clallum Indians on the beach Located on the waterfront with incredible views of Admiralty Bay, the Cascade Mountains and the San Juan Islands this 10+ acre park has something for everyone.   A favorite place for weddings, reunions, etc.  Views of covered arbor, park and bandstand, flora and pond.   \ Bandstand for concerts, weddings and other celebrations.               Pond and flora   Shakespear in the Park stage              Kitchen and Butterfly gar...
Comments 0
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
Summer has arrived in Port Townsend just in time for our favorite  "Festival of American Fiddle Tunes".  Held at Fort Worden, and produced by Centrum, this week long workshop is taught by experts and professionals in the field.  This is the 33rd year and attendance is expected to be approximately 500 students; culminated with performances in the McCurdy Pavillion and in our downtown clubs.                        This Saturday, the Fourth of July we will have a Performance on the green.                                Workshop session                      Performance on the green             Performer The workshops are held Monday through Friday with total immersion in the regional folk styles. Weekend  performances are given in the large McCurdy Pavillion, Saturday afternoon on the gree...
Comments 3
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
Port Townsend's FROGGY BOTTOMS A beautiful wetland area is in the heart of a small Port Townsend neighborhood between  San Juan Ave and the non-motorized trail.  It is much prettier in the winter when there is a pond, but yesterday as I passed on my morning walk it was full of beautiful singing birds.  A small urban oasis, Froggy Bottoms  is a work in progress, done by volunteers with the co-operation and assistance of the Puget Sound Water Quality Team.  Animals, plants and environmental conditions all interact to create a diverse ecosystem.  Strategically placed snags, stumps, and rock piles provide homes for wildlife to thrive and multiply.      Froggy Bottoms will remain a public open space where people can enjoy nature and such things as birdwatching.                          Artis...
Comments 1
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
There is a wonderful farm in the very center of town called Collingwood Farm, complete with fields of vegetables and flowers, portable greenhouses, old farmhouse and farm stand.  I find this absolutely amazing because in the hot market of 2007 this land of approximately 4-6 acres could have been sold off for any number of residences, or mixed use projects.  This is one block from my home and a wonderful walk for me and my dogs.  There is a large parcel on the corner for sale for $1,000,000 plus zoned for retail, mixed use of condos and stores.              Sign on F Street in Port Townsend                                                                           View of fields from Non motorized trail             Portable greenhouses                                                      ...
Comments 3
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
This weekend the Washington Association of Realtors is sponsoring a statewide open house tour.  It will be held on Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 1 pm and again from 2 pm to 4 pm on both days.  This will give agents an opportunity to hold 4 listings open and the public will have a large inventory of of homes to preview.  Our local board is supplying us with special signs, balloons and print-outs of the tour and there is a full page ad in our local paper.                                                    I think we are all pretty excited about this idea and hope it will bring out some buyers.  Open houses are not the norm in our real estate area and there is not always a good turn out.  I think it is just not what people are used to here.  I always found in So. California the people ...
Comments 0
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
                                                     Happening today in Port Townsend!  We have sunshine, ocean breezes and a lot of people in town for this annual event.  There are nine private gardens on display, all located within walking distance in the Uptown area.  Featured gardens will demonstrate things such as drought tolerant and deer resistant plants, shade solutions, and a shared vegetable patch.  There will be composting techniques and lots of ideas on landscaping your own backyard.  This event is sponsored by the Jefferson County Master Gardners, a group connected with Washington State University Extension.  A Master Gardner is trained under the auspices of WSU to provide information to home gardners about  practices for sustainable gardening, pest management, efficient wa...
Comments 2
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
                                               This This private non-profit organization is all about preserving our land, open spaces, and habitat.  So far this group is stewarding 7865 acres in this area.  The office is located in Port Townsend, but projects are county wide and donations of land and money from citizens along with the plans and ideas of members make it happen. My first recollection of this organization is from the time one of our local realtors started a drive to collect $75,000 to retain trees that line the entrance to our city, as they were in danger of being cut down.  This realtor came to our office meeting with a flyer and pledge cards, and did make it happen.  Examples of Recent Projects: Chimacum's Glendale Farm      An easement was created to provide a buffer z...
Comments 5
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
Last week I showed this home to one of my Buyer's and thought it was interesting enough to share.  I personally have never come across a home owned by a county, so presenting an offer on  this will be a first for me.  The previous owner was growing canibus in his yard and I suspect in an attic that is quite large with very big un-characteristic skylights.  It is my recollection that this resident was warned a few times before the home was confiscated.  What I don't know is why a neighboring county owns this home, and not our county of Jefferson.  MLS description: "The J. W. Griffiths House is described on the National Historic Registry as one of the finest intact Victorian residences outside the historic district.This home offers spectacular water views on the second & third levels and...
Comments 4
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
                                         The cultural events that go on in this area of the Northwest are truly amazing.  For a geographically large area with a very small population it is quite an accomplishment.  One that has been going on in an area between Port Townsend and Sequim is the Olympic Music Festival.                              This is held on a sunny and tranquil 55 acre farm in a beautiful area, dense with forest and snuggled under the Olympic Mountains.  The concerts are held in a barn and can also be heard from the grassy knoll.  Tickets range from $18 to $30.  People are invited to bring a picnic lunch and snacks for the outdoor area or you can purchase a box lunch for $13.00.  Atmoshpere and dress is casual on stage and off and music is classical from the most belo...
Comments 5
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
I love my office and all the agents and staff.  Really a great bunch.  Here is one that is making a difference in our community.  This woman is behind a new program to help people in need in Jefferson County with their winter heat.   Temperatures here can get just below freezing at night and stay that way for a good 3-4 months in the winter.  Jan Marquardt in our office applied to Realtor Magazine Good Neighbor Award for a grant to help out and is one of the finalists to receive $1000 to be used in conjunction with our local aid group, OlyCap which is helping with this program. The idea is to organize donations of wood from property owners, tree cutters, haulers, stackers, and last but not least,  money.  Wood will be delivered for home heat to those that cannot afford elecric heat or p...
Comments 2
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
Just a short post to show you our joy last night.  Celebrations were held all day, but I was working!  I did make it downtown at 6 pm and took in a bit of the Gallery Walk and enjoyed champagne and fabulous chocolate at William's Gallery.  William was Bill Metzler back at Windermere RE and I knew him when.  Now he and his Jewelry creating wife Wendy have a wonderful gallery packed with treasures from around the world,  showcasing her art.                                                                                           Chamber Music at Artisans on Taylor.                                                                                          The main attraction was taking place at Union Wharf and you could not miss it because you could hear the music of The Freddy Pink  band wh...
Comments 9
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
 Finished 11 days ahead of schedule and just in time for our day long celebration on Saturday, June 6th. The Hood Canal Bridge which links the Olympic Peninsula to the rest of the world  has been closed for repairs for the past month and people have had to drive around the canal, or take multiple ferries, or be bused to walk on ferries and more buses.                                                                               Check out the celebrations!   ·         11 am -  Official ribbon cutting ceremony at Salsbury Point Park in Kitsap County recognizing community leaders, the bridge contractor, elected officials and featuring the Chimacum High School band. ·         12 pm  - A small parade of vintage cars from 1959 to 1961 ( the time period the bridge opened) driving from Salisbur...
Comments 9
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
In the category of Port Townsend's most interesting real estate, the Eisenbeis Building also know as the Cracker Factory Building was built in 1889.  (Crackers were baked in building attached.)  Located in Port Townsend's original town-site on bustling Water Street the building was occupied by Delmonico's Hotel and Restaurant, and then later became the home of Olympic Hardware.  I believe the hardware store started in the 50's or 60's and I have been told that up on the 3rd floor you could find any part or gizmo you ever dreamed of.  This wonderful old building was renovated by investors and about 2 years ago, just as the market hit it's peak.  That timing was incredibly unlucky for these investors, but at this point there is one condo sold, and some interest in the retail area.        ...
Comments 3
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave... Patrick Henry-- Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have ever made a difference in the world, but the Marines don't have that problem. --Ronald Reagan-- From time to time, the tree of liberty must be watered with the blood of tyrants and patriots. --Thomas Jefferson-                                         --  This morning I heard the canon at the fort go off, saluting the veterans buried there.  I drove to the fort to check it out and there was a small gathering of people and I snapped some photos.  Fort Worden is one of three forts on the Olympic Peninsula built in the early 1900's to protect our Northwest border and ports.  On the south west corner of the fort is this beaut...
Comments 6
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave... Patrick Henry-- Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have ever made a difference in the world, but the Marines don't have that problem. --Ronald Reagan-- From time to time, the tree of liberty must be watered with the blood of tyrants and patriots. --Thomas Jefferson-                                         --  This morning I heard the canon at the fort go off, saluting the veterans buried there.  I drove to the fort to check it out and there was a small gathering of people and I snapped some photos.  Fort Worden is one of three forts on the Olympic Peninsula built in the early 1900's to protect our Northwest border and ports.  On the south west corner of the fort is this beaut...
Comments 0
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
Most of the Realtors in my office (John L Scott, Port Townsend) converged this morning on the home of a sick co-worker to clean the house and yard.  I was amazed and impressed by the turnout which amounted to about 30 people, including some of her neighbors and friends, showing up with brooms, dust pans, windex, weed eaters, and gloves.  Spirit was high and work was fast and furious.  A friend from Port Townsend Brewery brought 4 jugs of their incredible brew and was enjoyed by all.  Much was accomplished while the lady of the house was banished for the morning.  By the time I left things were ship shape and looking good.  Two truck loads of yard waste were hauled to the dump.      10 AM Work started                             A large stack of wood was moved    Grass was cut and weeds ...
Comments 8
By Sandra White, Experienced Residential Resale Broker
(John L Scott Real Estate)
                           On the waterfront in this historic seaport village, this new center will be quite an addition to Port Townsend.  In the planning process for almost 15 years, this ambitious project is beginning to take shape and form for all to see.  There will be "hard hat" tours beginning May 31.  In August 2000 the land was purchased( a former bulk oil terminal ) for $950,000, which was contributed partly by 1200 individual donors.  Clean up of the property  was finished in July of 2002 and a new deep water pier was completed in 2004.  There are names of donors etched into the piers planks.  .                                                            There are two main buildings with 26000 sq. ft. and flexible spaces which will be used for on the water activities, school p...
Comments 4