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Safe, Local Halloween Activities Across Kitsap County
Although COVID-19 has created many challenges this year, we can still find safe, creative ways to enjoy the holidays. There are a bunch of local Halloween activities happening across Kitsap County. I’ve compiled this list, and all of these activities involve precautions such as wearing masks.
Halloween from the Comfort of Your Car
Haunted Hayride at Battle Point: This safe “spooky drive-thru” is for people of all ages. Characters and scenes will come out of the shadows as you drive. You must register in advance using Activity #541004 online at biparks.org or by phone at 206-842-2302.
When: Oct. 20, 21 and 22, 2020 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: Battle Point Park, Bainbridge Island
Cost: $20 per vehicle
Trunk-or-Treat Drive Thru the Decades: Enjoy a blast from the past as you drive through the decades. Trunks and tents will be decorated, showcasing elements of the 1940’s all the way up to today. Kids can play an “I Spy” game along the way and designated staff with masks and gloves will be handing out candy while guests remain in their cars.
When: Oct. 31, 2020 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: North Kitsap Baptist Church, Poulsbo
Cost: Free
Local Outdoor Activities to Enjoy
Pumpkin Walk: This local tradition happens every year at Bainbridge Gardens. Check out hundreds of painted pumpkins and add your own painted pumpkin to the trail! Visit throughout October to see everyone’s pumpkins on display. You can also dress up in your Halloween costume and take pictures with the “Great Pumpkin”. Masks are required. The Bainbridge Island Boys and Girls Club has been the beneficiary of the Pumpkin Walk for years. The Club has provided a safe place for children of essential workers. Donations are encouraged to support the Club.
When: The entire month of October, Monday – Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Sunday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: Bainbridge Gardens, Bainbridge Island
Cost: Free
A Pumpkin Patch with Farm Animals and a Corn Maze: Looking for the perfect pumpkin? Visit Pheasant Fields Farm. They also have farm animals and a corn maze (see prices below). Entrance to the farm is free and masks are required. This is another one of those local, fall activities that people of all ages can enjoy.
When: Oct. 3 – 31, 2020, Monday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sunday 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: Pheasant Fields Farm, Silverdale
Cost: Free to enter the farm. Corn maze: $7 for adults and $5 for kids
Port Orchard Scarecrow Contest: Get creative by competing in Port Orchard’s 4th annual Scarecrow Contest. Visit the Port Orchard Market to check out all of the entries. There will be an awards ceremony on Nov. 2, 2020, to announce the winners. Review the official rules and then get started!
When: Oct. 19 – Oct. 26, 2020 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Where: Port Orchard Market, Port Orchard
Cost: Free
Super Squash Scavenger Hunt: Visit Bloedel Reserve to explore their gorgeous grounds and try to find all of the hidden squash, with help from a special map. Little kids will delight in being able to safely run around while adults get to take in their gorgeous gardens. Social distancing is easy in a magical place like this with over 150 acres to enjoy.
When: Oct 2 – 31, 2020
Where: Bloedel Reserve, Bainbridge Island
Cost: Included with Admission. Tickets must be purchased in advance online via timed tickets.
Here’s to a healthy, happy fall with some festive fun!
First Quarter Stats & COVID-19’s Impact
First Quarter Stats for 2020
While many are curious about our first quarter stats for Bainbridge Island’s housing market, the data is almost meaningless due to COVID-19. It did not really impact the market during the first quarter. The data you see here regarding housing activity will be quite different by the time we report on the second quarter in July. Additionally, the high-end market has remained very active. Our lack of inventory still creates many multiple offer situations in homes under $1M.
From this first-quarter review, you can see that the median sale price has gone up 4.3% year-over-year and the number of transactions went up 31% year-over-year. However, as I stated, a look at the first quarter means very little because our situation has changed drastically since then.
Graphs were created by Windermere using NWMLS and Trendgraphix data for area 170 but the information was not verified or published by NWMLS or Trendgraphix. Market Share Data reflects all types of properties sold calculated on May 6, 2020. Companies not shown represented less than 2% of buyers and sellers.
How COVID-19 Will Impact Buyer Behavior
The national and state housing markets were in good shape before the virus hit. We anticipate that they will be in good shape again, once we come out on the other side of this. When the economy opens back up, we foresee a rapid climb in the housing market volume. This will put upward pressure on prices again.
Windermere’s Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner, has been sharing insights on a weekly basis. Here, he discusses the long-term effects of COVID-19 on our market and on buyer behavior.
It’s a Seller’s Market
The speedometer reflects the state of the region’s real estate market using housing inventory, price gains, home sales, interest rates, and larger economic factors.
Curious about what’s on the market? Here’s a look at my current listings. If you have any questions or if I can help in any way, feel free to contact me.
2020 Economic Forecast and Market News
Clients often ask me, “Is this the right time to sell?” or “What is going to happen to interest rates in the next year?” Here is Windermere’s Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner answering these questions, providing his data-driven economic forecast, and more!
2020 Economic Forecast
Washington’s Real Estate Excise Tax Change
Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) is a tax on the real estate sale and the seller typically pays for it. Starting January of 2020, Washington state’s Real Estate Excise Tax is changing to a graduated system. This new system may impact you if you decide to sell your property in the new year. Find out more from Matthew Gardner in this helpful video.
Local Market Info
Curious about how our local real estate market is doing here in Kitsap County? You can see the latest market data through our up-to-date trend graphs. Additionally, you’re welcome to look at my active listings and my office’s listings to get an idea of what’s on the market here on Bainbridge Island and across Kitsap County.
If you still have questions or want to discuss your real estate goals, let’s set up a time to talk. I’m happy to provide any information or assistance you may need.
