NOTE: This blog is 100% me — Xan Roberti. From the initial spark of an idea, to research wormholes, to final wordsmithing, every word is crafted to offer authentic, valuable perspectives. Articles neither written by, nor suggested by my firm. Images are either mine, or stock used with permission. If you have any ideas for what you’d like to see moving forward, let me know!
Creative Ways to Afford a Home in 2025: House Hacking, Co-Ownership, and More
Struggling to afford a home in Seattle in 2025? Explore creative strategies like house hacking, co-ownership, and ADUs to make homeownership more attainable. Learn how to team up with friends or family, generate rental income, and tap into down payment assistance programs to get the keys to your dream home. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking for smart investment strategies, this guide will help you navigate today’s market with confidence.
A Pet Lover’s Guide to Moving in Seattle
Seattle is a haven for pet lovers, with more dogs than children and a strong culture of treating pets as family. As more people prioritize their “fur babies” when buying homes, pet-friendly features are a major factor in real estate decisions. Condos often offer pet relief areas and proximity to parks, while single-family homes provide yards and space to roam. To ensure a smooth move, plan ahead by acclimating pets to travel, securing them on moving day, and keeping routines consistent in your new home. With careful preparation, both you and your pet can settle comfortably into your new Seattle home.
New Year, New Home Goals:
The New Year is a perfect time for Seattle homeowners to refresh their spaces, especially if you’re not quite ready to take the leap and move but still crave something new. A realtor is your ultimate connector, with resources for everything from contractors and gardeners to home organizers and floor refinishers. Renewal isn’t always about moving—it’s about making your home work better for you right now.
Bright Ideas: Safe and Stunning Holiday Light Tips for Every Homeowner
Whether wrapping trees or outlining rooflines, thoughtful planning and safety tips ensure a dazzling display that enhances curb appeal and builds community. Holiday lights have a fascinating history, evolving from ancient solstice bonfires to the twinkling electric displays we love today. Inspired by the 25,000 lights in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, modern decorators channel the same spirit of wonder and creativity. Rooted in traditions of hope and renewal, holiday lights now transform homes into festive showcases, blending tradition with cozy "hygge" warmth.
The Benefits of Buying a Home During Seattle's Off-Peak Season
Why on earth would you buy a home in Seattle this November or December? A lot of reasons! Learn what would benefit you in making a purchase in the off-season months: less competition and softer prices make this an ideal time to buy! Plus, with easier access to real estate professionals and more time to make informed decisions, this season allows you to explore your options thoughtfully. Don’t miss out on the chance to find your dream home without the pressure of peak-season chaos!
Ready to Break Up with Rent? Here's How to Know It's Time to Buy
Break free from the rent cycle in Seattle. Learn when it’s time to buy, understand financial and emotional readiness for homeownership, and see how expert insights can ease your transition. Start building equity and transform your homeownership dreams into reality.
Its not just Houses that get Haunted!
As Halloween approaches, Seattle's rich tapestry of eerie history invites exploration. Rooted in the ancient festival of Samhain, this spooky season calls to those like me—a descendant of witches and former Seattle Underground tour guide. In this blog post, we delve into haunted sites, from the ghostly George in the Masonic Home of Washington to the chilling tales of 3,260 souls at Georgetown's Potter’s Field, alongside the haunted Three Tree Point Store and the Schooner Equator. If you're curious whether your future dream home might harbor ghostly tales—or if it's time to sell a haunted property—look no further!
Why Downsizing Might Be Your Best Move This Fall
As Seattle’s sunny days wind down, you may be thinking about all that extra space in your home. Downsizing offers the chance to simplify, save money, and create more freedom for the things that truly bring you joy. Whether it’s moving to a cozier space here or relocating to a warmer spot, I’m here to help you navigate every step with ease and confidence.
What impacts Mortgage Rates Anyway?
A crystal ball, or the next best thing, clues for your next buy. Mortgage rates are only one part of the choice you make in buying or selling a home, but they are a big one. Rates are likely to change soon, but why? Knowing what influences mortgage rates helps you anticipate changes in borrowing costs, allowing you to plan and budget effectively. It also enables you to time your purchase or refinance wisely, potentially saving money and aligning with your financial goals.
Top Mistakes First-Time Homebuyers Should Avoid in 2024
As a human species, we are wired to avoid pain and conflict, which is a negativity bias. Sometimes it's easier to start with what you should not do. That's exactly what this article explorers.
To ensure a smooth and successful home buying process, it’s crucial to be aware of common mistakes that many buyers make. As a Seattle Realtor®, with a background in both mindfulness and education, I am dedicated to guiding you through this process with expertise and care. Here are the top mistakes to avoid, and how I can help you navigate these challenges effectively.
Best Coffee Shops in Burien, Normandy Park, Tukwila and a few Seattle ones too!
When buying a home, consider the neighborhood's community spirit, often centered around local coffee shops, or "third places," that foster connection and belonging. Top coffee spots in Seattle and nearby areas, such as Burien Press, Empire Coffee, and Candor Coffee, offer cozy environments perfect for socializing and building community ties. These hubs of interaction enhance the vibrancy of neighborhoods, making them more engaging and enjoyable places to live. Exploring these coffee shops can help you find a neighborhood that truly feels like home.
The Ultimate Guide to Purchasing a Houseboat in Seattle
Houseboat living provides a close-knit community, eco-friendly practices, and a unique connection to nature, despite challenges such as seasonal adjustments and regular maintenance. This guide covers all the essentials to become part of this community of floating home owners. Embrace this distinctive lifestyle and explore the available listings to find your perfect waterborne home.
Navigating the NAR Settlement: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
Navigating the Impact of the NAR Settlement on Washington Real Estate: Understand how recent changes affect you. Learn about the NAR settlement's implications for buyers and sellers, from enhanced transparency to negotiating power. Let's discuss your real estate journey and ensure a smooth transaction. Contact me to get started!
Lock-ins and Break-outs in Real Estate
Feeling blocked by today's housing market? Explore strategies to unlock homeownership despite challenges.