Kathy Madsen I Realtor, Broker

06/19/2026

✨ Some homes just feel like a warm hug, even from the outside. This one is the perfect balance of elegance and comfort! 🌿💛

06/17/2026

For years, we have heard headlines about people leaving Seattle. The latest Census data tells a different story.

Seattle was one of the fastest-growing large cities in the country over the past year, adding more than 11,500 new residents. People continue to choose this region for its innovation, outdoor lifestyle, vibrant neighborhoods, and quality of life.

As Seattle locals and real estate professionals, we see this firsthand. Whether buyers are relocating from across the country or moving closer to family, schools, and community, the Seattle area continues to attract people who want to put down roots here.

Despite much reporting on a population exodus from Washington, Seattle had one of the largest population gains among U.S. cities in 2025.

06/16/2026

Luxury buyers have high expectations, and knowing what they’re looking for can make all the difference.

From spa-like bathrooms to chef-inspired kitchens and seamless indoor/outdoor living spaces, these features often tip the scales when buyers are deciding.

As an agent, highlighting these elements in your listings and marketing can attract the right audience and create serious interest. Staying on top of trends ensures your listings feel current and irresistible. 💎

06/14/2026

Let's hear your 🌱 secrets! Comment below...

06/12/2026

Looking for a new favorite restaurant? Consider The Cottage! Has anyone already been there?

Traditional American in Bothell, WA

06/10/2026

For many first-time buyers, the biggest surprise isn’t the house hunt itself—it’s the hidden costs of homeownership. 🏡💸

Beyond the mortgage, there are things like:
🔑 Closing costs
🔧 Maintenance & repairs
💡 Utilities & property taxes

It all adds up quicker than most expect. Planning ahead for these expenses can make the transition to homeownership much smoother—and a lot less stressful.

What surprised you the most about buying your first home?

06/09/2026

Leave it to Glinda the Good Witch to make real estate headlines!

Ariana Grande's former London penthouse from the filming of Wicked is now on the market for $16.95 million, and the home is every bit as dramatic as you would expect. Perched above the Thames with sweeping city views, the residence blends contemporary design, privacy, and a location that places some of London's most iconic landmarks right outside the window.

While most of us are not shopping for a penthouse once occupied by a global pop star, it's a fun reminder that extraordinary homes tell a story. Whether it is a London penthouse, a waterfront retreat, or a favorite Eastside neighborhood, buyers are often drawn to properties that offer a sense of place and a memorable lifestyle.

🔗 https://mansion.global/4okJ33e

Photo credit: Composite: Getty Images; U.K. Sotheby’s International Realty

06/08/2026

Ready to buy a home? That's great! Check out this Buyer Guide for expert tips and tricks!

Make sure you're prepared to buy a home with this free, expert Buyer Guide.

06/06/2026

💰 Decorating on a Budget? We Got You! 🏡✨

Think you need to break the bank to make your space look amazing? Think again! 💡 Here are some simple, affordable ways to transform your home without spending a fortune. 🏠👇

✅ Thrift & DIY: Hidden gems are waiting at second-hand stores!
✅ Repurpose & Rearrange: Sometimes, all you need is a fresh layout.
✅ Affordable Accents: Small changes = BIG impact!

Who else loves a budget-friendly glow-up? 🙋‍♀️ Drop your favorite budget decor tips in the comments! ⬇️

06/05/2026

Well, downtown Bellevue just gave us one more reason to make dinner plans on the Eastside. Nobu is coming to Avenue Bellevue, and for anyone who loves watching our local communities grow, this is a fun one. The two residential towers at Avenue Bellevue will be rebranded as Nobu Residences, the first Nobu residential opening in the United States, and a 10,000-square-foot restaurant is expected to open in 2027. That means Bellevue will soon be home to the Pacific Northwest’s first Nobu. 👏

Beyond the excitement of a new restaurant, this says a lot about the momentum happening in downtown Bellevue. The area around Bellevue Square and the InterContinental continues to become more vibrant, more walkable, and more appealing for people who want city energy with Eastside ease.

I always love seeing our local neighborhoods gain new gathering places, especially ones that add something fresh to the community. Bellevue is growing up in a very delicious way.

🔗 https://bit.ly/4obPGVb

Photo courtesy of Nobu Restaurants