OUR TEAM
Company: Rethinking Real Estate LLC
Site: https://rethinkingre.com
Susie is known for her tenacity, responsiveness, and ability to think outside the box to achieve her clients' goals. She excels in the aesthetics of home presentation, assisting clients with staging and remodeling to elevate their homes' appeal. Her knack for showcasing properties in their best light not only leads to quick sales but also secures premium prices. She consistently finds innovative ways to save her clients money, making her an invaluable asset to those looking to navigate the real estate market efficiently and effectively. Her dedication to her clients’ success and satisfaction sets her apart, ensuring that every transaction is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
Don is highly regarded by his clients for his patience, attention to detail, and ability to skillfully negotiate complex deals. His insatiable curiosity about the latest technology, from AI and quantum computing breakthroughs to the newest sustainable tech innovations, keeps him ahead in leveraging tech advancements in real estate. Don's firsthand experience in rentals and property management allows him to adeptly find the right tenants and manage every aspect of property management, ensuring well-maintained and profitable properties. Additionally, his forward-thinking approach in applying cutting-edge technologies to optimize home marketing and sales significantly enhances client experiences, making him a trusted advisor in an ever-evolving real estate market.
Susie's Blog
Homebuyers Fear the Wrong Things—Here’s What They Should Really Worry About
When people think about buying a home, certain fears naturally rise to the surface. According to a recent survey of 1,000 homeowners, the top worries included: Buying a home that turns out to have problems (35%) Overpaying for the home (14%) Being able to afford the monthly payment (13%) Having to settle for a home they didn’t love (10%) Only 4% of respondents said their biggest fear was picking the wrong real estate agent. And that’s the problem. If more homebuyers prioritized choosing the right agent, those other fears could have been dramatically reduced—or even eliminated altogether. How the Right Agent Erases Homebuyer Anxiety 1. Fear of Buying a Home With Problems A home with major issues—hidden defects, undisclosed repairs, or even deal-breaking structural concerns—can turn what should be a dream purchase into a nightmare. A great agent doesn’t just schedule showings; they know how to identify potential red flags before you even get to inspection day. We educate you on what to look for, guide you toward trusted inspectors, and negotiate repairs or price adjustments to protect your investment. A lot of times when we are showing a home to a client we are pointing out issues at the time to make you aware of either potential monetary issues like the need for new carpet and paint, or lender issues like the roof is pretty old and will have to be replaced before closing. It is also knowing through experience which neighborhoods might have issues. Recently, we had a seller find mold in their attic area and they immediately took care of it. We then discovered that other homeowners were also finding the issue with their homes in the same community. All the homes had been built by the same builder, so the next time we have a seller or buyer in the community we will make sure that the attic is inspected. 2. Fear of Overpaying Overpaying isn’t just about the listing price—it’s about understanding the market, the home's value, and your negotiation power. A skilled agent has the data and experience to ensure you’re making a competitive but smart offer. We don’t let emotions or bad advice push you into a financial mistake. Understanding market trends – Are prices rising or stabilizing? Are there a lot of units/homes for sale in the community, then why? Financial market conditions – How do interest rates and global economics impact affordability? Negotiation leverage – Are you in a strong position, or are you bidding against multiple offers? What contigencies are you thinking about including? 3. Fear of Struggling With the Monthly Payment Affordability isn’t just about getting a loan approval. It’s about making sure you’re buying a home that aligns with your financial future. A knowledgeable agent connects you with the right lenders, ensures you're aware of hidden costs (property taxes, insurance, maintenance, special assessment), and helps structure an offer that won’t leave you house-poor. A great agent doesn’t just follow real estate trends; they also track the financial market and world economy to help you make the smartest decision possible. Just last week, a client asked me if she should lock in her interst rate. I told her that, given what was happening in the stock market, she might consider waiting. A few days later, the market took a hit due to a new tariff announcement. She checked in again, and I advised her to hold off for just one more day to see if rates adjusted further. (the stock market had made one of its largest drops).The next morning, rates dipped before starting to climb back up. I told her it was a good time to consider locking. She called her lender just in time. Had she locked lat week, her rate would have been 6.875%. Instead, she locked at 6.5% with no additional costs—a decision that saved her tens of thousands over the life of the loan. 4. Fear of Settling for the Wrong Home Too many buyers settle for less than they truly want because they feel rushed, pressured, or misled by poor advice. A great agent takes the time to listen, strategize, and find creative solutions—ensuring you’re not just buying a home, but the right home for your needs and lifestyle. That’s why we invest time upfront, asking the right questions to understand not just what you're looking for, but why. Do you envision hosting weekend football gatherings for 20 friends and need ample parking? Or is your ideal home one with a spacious deck and backyard for outdoor relaxation? By actively listening, we gain a clear picture of how you plan to enjoy your home, allowing us to guide you to a purchase that truly fits your life. A Marketing Problem, Not a Market Problem The survey results reveal a gap: homebuyers don’t always understand what a great agent actually does for them. That’s on us, as professionals—we need to show that picking the right agent is the single most important decision in the home-buying process. So, here’s our take: The wrong agent makes you feel like you’re on your own.The right agent makes sure you never have to worry. If you’re thinking about buying a home and want to eliminate the stress, reach out to us. We don’t just sell homes—we remove the worry from the process and give you 24 years of experience to help you with any fear you may have. Ready to find a home without the fear? Let’s talk. Curious about more homeownership tips? Follow us at Rethinking Real Estate for insights and advice that keeps you informed! We have more blog posts at https://rethinkingre.com/blog or go to our youtube channel athttps://www.youtube.com/@RethinkingRE or go to our podcast athttps://rethinkingre.com/podcast
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Pets: The New VIPs of American Homes
Move over, kids! There's a new top dog in American households, and it's not who you might think. Recent statistics reveal a fascinating shift in our family dynamics: homes with pets now outnumber those with children. This trend is not only changing the way we live but also how we approach real estate and home design. Pet ownership in the U.S. has reached record highs, with 70% of American households now sharing their home with at least one pet—up from 56% in 1988, according to the American Pet Products Association. Dogs remain the most popular choice, residing in approximately 59.8 million households (45.5%), while cats follow closely behind, living in about 42.2 million homes (32.1%), based on 2024 data from the American Veterinary Medical Association. Interestingly, this surge in pet ownership contrasts with a decline in households raising children. U.S. Census data shows that in 2022, only 40% of households had children under 18, a drop from 48% in 2002. Experts attribute this shift to factors such as declining birth rates and aging Baby Boomers transitioning into empty-nest lifestyles. Meanwhile, the COVID-19 pandemic further fueled the rise in pet adoptions, solidifying the deep bond between people and their furry companions. This pet boom is having a significant impact on the real estate market. Believe it or not, some home buyers now consider their pets as the most important factor when making housing decisions. Here are some interesting trends: Nearly one-third of unmarried couples factor their pets into their neighborhood choice, compared to 14% of married couples. Single women are more likely to consider their pets (25%) when choosing a neighborhood than single men (16%). Pet owners are more interested in properties with larger lots, proximity to parks, and walkable areas. As pets climb the ladder of household importance, home design is evolving to accommodate our furry friends. Here are some of the hottest pet-friendly home trends for 2025: Zen Dens: Dedicated spaces for pets to relax, complete with calming sounds and soft lighting. Smart Nooks: Built-in pet beds that double as chic home decor elements. Wash Stations: No more muddy paw prints! Custom pet bathing areas are becoming a must-have. Durable Flooring: Pet-friendly surfaces that can withstand claws and occasional accidents. Looking to upgrade your flooring. Known for its luxury vinyl plank (LVP) options, COREtec offers waterproof flooring that is also scratch-resistant. Built-in Feeding Stations: Sleek, integrated food and water bowl areas that keep mealtime neat and tidy. Indoor Play Spaces: Dedicated rooms or areas for pets to burn off energy, even when you're not home. Pet-Friendly Windows: Low windows or perches for cats and dogs to enjoy the view8. As we look ahead, it's clear that pets are no longer just animals we own – they're integral family members shaping how we live and where we choose to call home. From "catio" sunrooms to doggy spas, the sky's the limit when it comes to pet-centric home design. So, whether you're a proud pet parent or considering joining the club, remember: in today's real estate market, it's not just about location, location, location. It's also about accommodation, accommodation, accommodation – for our beloved four-legged friends, that is So, what's the takeaway? Why should you, as a potential home buyer or seller, care about this seismic shift in household dynamics? We may think we're making the decisions, but smart homeowners will realize this: happy pets make for happy homes, and happy homes fetch a much better price. Curious about more homeownership tips? Follow us at Rethinking Real Estate for insights and advice that keeps you informed! We have more blog posts at https://rethinkingre.com/blog or go to our youtube channel athttps://youtube.com/@rethinkingre or go to our podcast athttps://rethinkingre.com/podcast
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How One Investor Turned a Single Property Into Two—Without Paying Taxes
Real estate investing isn’t just about buying and selling houses—it’s about strategic moves that maximize wealth over time. In this post, we’re pulling back the curtain on a real transaction we’re working on right now, where an investor client of ours leveraged smart financial planning to turn one rental property into two—without paying a dime in capital gains taxes. This is a perfect example of how real estate can build wealth, and it’s something that’s possible for many investors—if they know how to do it right. From Bonney Lake to Star, Idaho: A Smart Investment Move We’re currently in Star, Idaho, a fast-growing town just north of Boise, helping our client finalize two property purchases. Star has become a hot spot for investors, thanks to: ✅ Lower home prices compared to major metro areas✅ High rental demand with a growing population✅ Landlord-friendly laws✅ Strong appreciation potential in emerging markets Our client, a Washington-based investor, recently sold a rental property in Bonney Lake that they had owned for 24 years. They originally purchased it for $191,000, and we just closed the sale for $520,000. Normally, a gain that large would come with a big tax bill—about $78,000 in capital gains taxes. But instead of handing that money over to the IRS, our client used a powerful tool in the tax code to keep all of it working for them. The Power of the 1031 Exchange Enter Section 1031 of the tax code—an investor’s best friend. A 1031 exchange allows an investor to defer capital gains taxes if they reinvest their sale proceeds into new investment properties. That means instead of losing nearly $80K to taxes, our client gets to leverage all of their profits into new properties—growing their portfolio without losing momentum. Now, they had two options: Option 1: Buy One House in Idaho With Cash Purchase one house for $480,000 No mortgage, no financing costs Cash flow from rental income begins immediately Option 2: Buy Two Houses With Large Down Payments Purchase two new homes for $960,000 total Use 50% of the Bonney Lake sale proceeds as down payments Finance the rest with two mortgages Double their asset base and rental income potential They went with Option 2—choosing to buy two homes instead of one. Why New Construction Over Resale? You might wonder: Why buy brand-new homes when older resale properties are cheaper? The answer comes down to efficiency and return on investment: 🏡 Immediate rental income – No delays for renovations, meaning cash flow starts right away.🔨 No major repairs – Everything is brand new, reducing maintenance costs.👷 Builder warranties – If something goes wrong, the builder is responsible for fixing it.💰 Top-of-the-market rent – Tenants are willing to pay more to be the first to live in a brand-new home. On top of that, Idaho’s builder and lender incentives sweetened the deal even more. We negotiated: ✔ $32,000 in builder credits (usable for upgrades or closing costs)✔ $9,400 lender credit to buy down their mortgage rate from 7.5% to 6.8%✔ $274 per month in mortgage savings per property These advantages made new construction the smarter play over an older resale home. The Long-Term Wealth Building Strategy At first glance, buying one house with no mortgage seems like the safer move. But in the long run, leveraging two properties creates more wealth. Here’s how the math plays out: 💰 One house → Worth $480,000 today📈 5% annual appreciation → Worth $612,615 in 5 years 🏡 Two houses → Worth $960,000 today📈 5% annual appreciation → Worth $1,225,230 in 5 years By choosing two homes instead of one, our client is controlling twice the assets and gaining twice the appreciation potential—all while using the same initial sale proceeds from Bonney Lake. This is how wealth compounds in real estate. The Takeaway: Leverage Knowledge for Smart Investing Real estate is one of the most powerful wealth-building tools available, but only if you know how to strategically position your investments. This deal isn’t just theory—it’s a real-world example of how investors use tax strategies, financing, and market knowledge to multiply their returns. And here’s the thing: We do this all the time. At Rethinking Real Estate, we don’t just talk about investing—we’re actively involved in transactions like this every day. Whether you're looking to sell, buy, invest, or just learn how to make real estate work for you, we’re happy to share our knowledge and help you strategize. 📩 Thinking about building wealth through real estate? Reach out to us—we’d love to help.
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Afraid to Check Your Credit? Fearful of Being Denied? It May Not Be the End—but the Beginning
(Note: Now you can listen to our AI podcast hosts, Frosty and Bailey, kick around the ideas presented in the interview at: https://RethinkingRE.com/Podcast) Buying a home is often seen as a monumental task—an intimidating maze of credit scores, financial hurdles, and long-term commitments. Many people hesitate to even check their credit score, fearing it’s too low. Others put off applying for a mortgage altogether, afraid of rejection. But what if the process wasn’t as overwhelming as it seemed? What if a mortgage denial wasn’t the end, but rather the beginning of a well-planned financial strategy? We sat down with mortgage expert Kirk Rau of CrossCountry Mortgage to discuss what really happens when a mortgage is denied, how buyers can turn rejection into an opportunity, and why homeownership is about far more than just wealth—it’s about stability, happiness, and control over your future. A mortgage denial can feel like the ultimate roadblock—a door slamming shut on your dreams of homeownership. But according to Kirk, a denial is not the end of the road; it’s simply a roadmap pointing to the exact steps needed to get approved in the future. “You cannot improve until you know where you are,” Kirk explains. “Getting your credit checked allows you to see exactly what steps you need to take. Many times, people assume their score is lower than it actually is, or they don’t realize how quickly they can improve it.” Rather than feeling discouraged, Kirk encourages buyers to embrace the process—sitting down with a mortgage professional to map out a clear, realistic timeline for qualification. We have a client—who when they were a 23-year-old first-time homebuyer-- was denied a mortgage due to a low credit score of 600. Understandably, they were frustrated and felt like homeownership was out of reach. But rather than giving up, even though they thought about it, we worked side by side with them over the next year to strategically rebuild their credit. Here’s how we helped them turn their denial into a financial turning point:✔ They didn’t have enough credit history, so we helped them choose the right credit cards to build their score effectively. Instead of applying for multiple random cards, they got one secured card and one major credit card that worked in their favor.✔ They made small, manageable charges each month, then paid them off completely to build a history of responsible usage.✔ They focused on paying down the right debts. Contrary to popular belief, paying off the wrong debt—like certain medical bills—can actually lower your score. We carefully prioritized which debts would give them the biggest credit boost.✔ They followed a strategic plan and checked in regularly. In one year, their credit score jumped over 100 points, and they were able to qualify for a mortgage with a much better interest rate than they ever expected. This client didn’t just buy a home; they gained financial confidence and control over their future. Owning a home isn’t just about financial security—it’s about life stability. Research has shown that homeownership impacts every aspect of life, from mental well-being to long-term wealth-building. Here’s what the data shows:🏡 Homeowners build more wealth—on average, they are 89 times wealthier than renters.📚 Homeowners’ children perform better in school compared to their peers in rental situations.❤️ Marriages last longer among homeowners than among renters.🩺 Homeowners tend to be healthier and live longer than those who rent. Why? Stability. When you own a home, you control your environment. You’re not at the mercy of a landlord who might decide to sell the property or raise your rent. Your home is yours to decorate, renovate, and grow into—a place that provides both an emotional and financial foundation. That’s why so many families mark their children's heights on a doorframe—it’s a tangible reminder that a home isn’t just a structure, but a space where life unfolds and memories take root. Even after working to improve financial health, some common mistakes can derail a home purchase. Kirk highlighted some of the biggest errors buyers make—and the simple fixes that could save thousands of dollars (or even their mortgage approval). 1. Relying on Online Credit Scores Many buyers trust sites like Credit Karma or their bank’s credit score to gauge whether they qualify. However, these scores aren’t the same as the ones lenders use. Mortgage lenders pull deeper credit data that online scores don’t always reflect. 2. Making Big Purchases Before Closing One of the biggest homebuying mistakes? Spending money too soon. Susie shared a story about a buyer who excitedly bought a designer handbag on a new store credit card—a “celebratory” purchase for her soon-to-be new home. Unfortunately, the new debt caused her debt-to-income ratio to spike, and her mortgage was denied at the last minute. 💡 Lesson learned: Do NOT open new credit cards or make large purchases before closing—lenders often check credit again before finalizing a loan! If you absolutely need to purchase something please run it by your lender first. 3. Family Help with the Down Payment Many buyers receive down payment help from family, but if those funds aren’t properly documented, it can create mortgage delays. Lenders need to verify the source of the money to prevent fraud. So, if a family member is gifting money for a home purchase, work with your lender to document it correctly—no unexplained deposits from “under the mattress.” One of Kirk’s most eye-opening insights? There’s a difference between spending less and actually saving. “Not spending money isn’t the same as saving money,” he explains. “You think you’re saving, but unless you physically move that money into a savings or investment account, it just disappears into daily expenses.” He told a story about how he would cut his own hair when he was younger, and that at the time he started doing this haircuts were about $19. So evertime he cut his hair he said I am saving $19, however he never moved the $19 into an account to actually save the money. As self-employed real estate agents, Don and I don’t receive a steady paycheck. Our income comes when we close a sale—some of you are paid the same. Early on, we had to develop a financial system that allowed us to stay afloat, no matter how unpredictable our income was. Our solution? We committed to putting a fixed percentage of every paycheck into an account we couldn’t easily access. The idea was simple—if the money was hard to reach, we’d get more creative and resourceful with what we had available. At first, the percentage we saved was small because we weren’t making much. But as our income grew, and we even picked up side jobs to make ends meet, we gradually increased the percentage without sacrificing our lifestyle. This strategy gave us a financial cushion during lean months and the ability to make smarter decisions with our money. Not spending money and saving money are not the same thing. Avoiding unnecessary purchases can help in the short term, but real financial security comes from intentionally setting aside money before you even have a chance to spend it. The same principle applies to buying a home—knowing your credit score, planning ahead, and taking proactive steps will always put you in a stronger position. For those preparing for homeownership, the best habit to develop is automating savings—transferring a set amount into a dedicated home-buying account every month. This way the money disappears before you even get your hands on it. Buying a home isn’t just about credit scores and interest rates—it’s about making informed decisions that lead to:✔ Financial stability✔ Personal happiness✔ Long-term security If you’ve been turned down for a mortgage, it’s not a dead end—it’s a roadmap to a stronger financial future. The key is taking strategic steps now to improve your position, and you don’t have to do it alone. Building a trusted team of professionals will help guide you through the process, ensuring you stay on track without carrying the weight of homeownership preparation all on your own. Thinking about buying a home? Even if you’ve been denied before, now is the time to plan. Let’s build a strategy to get you into a home with confidence, knowledge, and the best financial position possible. If you’re unsure where you stand or what your next steps should be, let’s talk. We can help you build a roadmap to homeownership—whether you’re ready today or preparing for the future. 👉 Need expert advice? Contact us at rethinkingre.com or call 253-987-6789.📞 Looking for mortgage guidance? Reach out to Kirk Rau at CrossCountry Mortgage at 253-376-5475. Curious about more homeownership tips? Follow us at Rethinking Real Estate for insights and advice that keeps you informed! We have more blog posts at https://rethinkingre.com/blog or go to our youtube channel athttps://youtube.com/@rethinkingre or go to our podcast athttps://rethinkingre.com/podcast
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The Dirty Secret About Gutters: Why Ignoring Them Could Cost You Thousands!
Gutters: Let's be honest, they're about as exciting as watching paint dry, right? But imagine this: you're chilling inside during a downpour, and suddenly, it sounds like Niagara Falls is erupting inside your living room. That's the not-so-funny reality of ignoring your gutters. We're not saying you need to throw a gutter-cleaning party, but trust us, a little attention to these unsung heroes can save you from a world of watery woes. So, stick with us as we uncover the dirty secrets about gutters and why neglecting them could cost you some serious cash. Gutter maintenance is one of those tasks that can often be overlooked, but it's essential for keeping your home in good shape. While it might seem like rainwater or melted snow would wash away debris, that's not how gutters work. Instead of clearing out debris, water typically flows over the small buildup at the bottom of the gutters, while larger items, like leaves and sticks, are too heavy to be moved by the water. If your gutters aren't cleaned regularly, debris can accumulate, causing clogs that lead to water damage, pest infestations, and other problems. Fortunately, cleaning your gutters is an easy job, and with the right schedule, you can avoid serious issues down the road. Why Cleaning Your Gutters is So Important Regular gutter cleaning is key to keeping both your home and gutter system in top condition. If you're tempted to skip this task, consider the following reasons why it matters. Prevent Water Damage: When leaves, sticks, and other debris clog your gutters, water has nowhere to go but over the edges. This can lead to water seeping under your roof, into your walls, and even damaging your foundation over time. Avoid Pest Infestations: Clogged gutters are the perfect environment for pests like insects, rodents, and birds. A buildup of leaves and debris can attract these animals to build nests, and in some cases, those pests may find their way into your home. Extend the Life of Your Gutters: Over time, the weight of accumulated debris can pull gutters away from your roof and walls, damaging the system. By regularly cleaning your gutters, you prevent clogs, ice dams, and pest nests that can lead to premature wear. How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters? The frequency with which you should clean your gutters depends on several factors, including nearby trees, the local weather, and whether or not you have gutter protection installed. General Rule of Thumb: Most homes need gutter cleaning once or twice a year. Homes Near Trees: If you have large trees around your property, you may need to clean your gutters as often as four times a year. Gutter Protection Systems: If you have a gutter guard or other protection system in place, you might only need to clean your gutters once a year. The ideal time to clean your gutters is typically in the fall or early winter, just before the first snow if you live in a cold climate. You can also plan for a second cleaning in the spring to remove any debris that built up during the winter. Before setting a schedule, take a look at the condition of your gutters. If they're sagging, bent, or otherwise damaged, it's best to make repairs before cleaning. Signs It's Time to Clean Your Gutters If you haven’t established a regular cleaning routine or just moved into a new home, here are some signs that it’s time to clear out your gutters: Overflowing Gutters: Water spilling over the sides during rain is a sure sign of a clog. Water Stains or Damage: Discolored siding, roof damage, or foundation issues can all stem from gutters that aren't draining properly. Broken or Hanging Gutters: If you notice gutters pulling away from the house, debris buildup may be weighing them down. Pests Around the Gutters: Increased rodent, bird, or mosquito activity near your gutters could indicate nesting materials or other debris. Plants Growing in the Gutters: If your gutters have become a garden, it's time to clean them out. Clogged Downspouts: If water isn't draining through your downspouts, the gutters are likely clogged. Visible Debris: When you can see debris from the ground, it’s time to get the ladder out. Regular cleaning is the best way to keep your gutters functioning and protect your home from potential damage. If you're not comfortable cleaning them yourself, many professional gutter cleaning services can help you maintain a clear and functional system year-round. As your trusted real estate agent if you need a referral for a gutter cleaner just reach out to us. Curious about more homeownership tips? Follow us at Rethinking Real Estate for insights and advice that keeps you informed! We have more blog posts at https://rethinkingre.com/blog or go to our youtube channel at https://youtube.com/@rethinkingre or go to our podcast at https://rethinkingre.com/podcast
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Indulge Like a Local: Washington’s Best Handmade Chocolates
If you think Washington is just about coffee and rain, think again—because this state knows chocolate. From Seattle’s bustling Pike Place Market to the charming streets of Spokane, Washington’s chocolatiers are crafting some of the richest, most indulgent confections you’ll ever taste. And let’s be honest—whether you’re celebrating a new home, Valentine's Day, or just looking for a treat after a long day of house hunting, there’s always a good reason for chocolate. Here’s where to find the best locally made chocolate in Washington. Seattle Locations: Indi Chocolate (Pike Place Market) Located in Seattle’s famous Pike Place Market, Indi Chocolate is all about small-batch, bean-to-bar dark chocolate. Their truffles and cacao-infused coffee drinks (like the mole caramel latte!) are a must-try. Want to take your love of chocolate to the next level? Sign up for a chocolate-making class and create your own masterpiece. Fran’s Chocolates (Georgetown) Known for their Gold Bars and sea salt caramels, Fran’s Chocolates has been elevating the chocolate game for over 40 years. Their flagship location in Georgetown is inside the historic Seattle Brewing & Malting Co. building—perfect for a sweet stop during your next city adventure. Seattle Chocolate (Tukwila) Seattle Chocolate is on a mission to make the world a sweeter place—literally. Their truffle bars are made with ethically sourced ingredients, and their entire operation is carbon neutral. If you love chocolate and sustainability, take their factory tour to see how their famous meltaway truffle bars come to life. Theo Chocolate (Fremont) As the first organic and fair-trade-certified chocolate maker in North America, Theo Chocolate is a Fremont staple. Their caramel pecan turtles and peanut butter buddy bars are legendary. Bonus: They offer a “Taste and Learn” experience where you can sample their latest creations while learning about their bean-to-bar process. Beyond Seattle: More Washington Chocolate Wonders Chukar Cherries (Prosser & Pike Place Market) Chocolate-covered cherries? Yes, please! Chukar Cherries in Prosser (with a storefront in Pike Place Market) specializes in Pacific Northwest-grown cherries coated in rich milk and dark chocolate. Their dried fruit and nut mixes are great for snacking on the go—or for sweetening up your next open house. Boehm’s Candies & Chocolates (Issaquah) If you love European-style chocolates, Boehm’s is your spot. This Swiss-style chalet in Issaquah has been crafting hand-dipped truffles, nut clusters, and caramels since 1942. Take a self-guided window tour or book a guided tasting experience in the summer months. Brown & Haley (Tacoma) Home of the famous Almond Roca, Brown & Haley has been satisfying sweet tooths since 1912. Stop by their Tacoma factory store, where you can shop their delicious treats and stand in the very spot where Elvis once visited in 1962. Spokandy (Spokane) Operating since 1913, Spokandy continues the tradition of handcrafting chocolates using high-quality ingredients. Their peanut clusters and caramel pecan patties are a local favorite. Stop by their West Third Avenue location for a true taste of Spokane’s sweet side. Halletts Chocolates (Spokane) What started as a way to fill the gap between Otis Orchard’s strawberry and raspberry seasons turned into a full-blown chocolate empire. Halletts Chocolates offers over 120 candies, including unique caramels infused with flavors like grey sea salt and habanero. A Little Something Extra: Unique Chocolate Destinations Schocolat (Leavenworth) If you find yourself in Leavenworth, don’t miss Schocolat. This boutique chocolate shop specializes in Belgian-style treats that pair perfectly with the town’s Bavarian village charm. Try their Amaretto truffle or Pecan Pie Crunch—you won’t regret it. NW Fudge and Confections (Port Angeles) Step into an old-fashioned candy store experience in Port Angeles. NW Fudge and Confections produces over 75 pounds of fresh fudge every week and carries a variety of handmade chocolates, truffles, and saltwater taffy. Final Thought: Home is Sweeter with Chocolate Whether you’re celebrating a move, stopping by a freinds new house or just indulging in some self-care, Washington’s local chocolate shops have something for every occasion. And let’s be real—house hunting is always better with a truffle (or two) in hand. So, which one of these sweet spots are you visiting first? Looking to buy or sell a home in Washington? Let’s make your next move as sweet as these chocolates—contact us today! Curious about more homeownership tips? Follow us at Rethinking Real Estate for insights and advice that keeps you informed! We have more blog posts at https://rethinkingre.com/blog or go to our youtube channel at https://youtube.com/@rethinkingre or go to our podcast at https://rethinkingre.com/podcast
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The Podcast
Created by by Don and Susie Karstedt, and hosted by our AI friends Frosty and Bailey, the digital duo, this podcast covers everything from market trends and homeownership tips to wealth-building strategies and home design hacks.
What's Your Home Worth?
Find out the worth of your home and get the most accurate valuation.
We Wrote
The Book
On Real Estate Word Puzzles
Rethinking Real Estate LLC
We see home ownership as a cornerstone of generational wealth and a unique journey for everyone. Through tailored guidance and education, we empower every client, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and support needed to to find their perfect fit.
REVIEWS
We had the absolute pleasure of working with Don and Susan Karstedt when buying and selling our home, and we cannot recommend them highly enough! From start to finish, they were professional, knowledgeable, and always put our needs first. When it came time to sell, Don and Susan provided invaluable advice on preparing our home for the market. They helped us stage it beautifully, making sure it stood out to potential buyers. On the buying side, they listened closely to our preferences and made sure we found a home that truly fit our needs. Their deep knowledge of the market and eye for detail helped us navigate every step. What sets Don and Susan apart is their genuine care for their clients. They were always available to answer questions, walk us through the process, and ensure everything went smoothly, even when unexpected issues arose. Their dedication to providing exceptional service is unmatched. If you're looking for real estate agents who are not only experts but also genuinely dedicated to making the buying and selling process as smooth as possible, Don and Susan Karstedt are the team to trust. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
