Discover the Anacortes Beached Boat
A Day-Trip Treasure
When you’re exploring Anacortes, it’s easy to get swept away by the sparkling waters, island views, and charming downtown. However, tucked along the Guemes Channel Trail, discover the “Anacortes Beached Boat”. A hidden gem that’s equal parts history, nature, and Pacific Northwest quirk: the famous beached boat—officially known as the La Merced.
A Ship With Stories to Tell
The La Merced isn’t just any old vessel. Built in 1917 as a four-masted schooner for Standard Oil, she once carried petroleum products across the seas during the World War I era. Later, she was transformed into a floating cannery, working the Alaskan waters before finding her final resting place in 1966 at Lovric’s Boatyard on Fidalgo Island.
Rather than sail off into obscurity, the La Merced was scuttled and repurposed as a breakwater, protecting the boats in the marina from rough waters. And while her sailing days are long gone, she’s taken on a new kind of life.
Where History Meets Nature
Today, the La Merced is more than a shipwreck—it’s a forest on the water. Over the decades, trees and wildlife have taken root within her hull, turning this maritime relic into a floating ecosystem. It’s a rare sight: a schooner-turned-sanctuary where history and nature intertwine.
Because of her unique past and enduring presence, the La Merced was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
How to See It
If you’d like to experience this Anacortes landmark for yourself, the best view is from the Guemes Channel Trail, not far from the San Juan Islands ferry terminal. You can also catch a closer look from the adjacent marina parking lot, though remember—it’s an active boatyard, so be respectful of the space.
Why It’s Worth the Stop
The Anacortes Beached Boat isn’t just a landmark; it’s a reminder of how places—and vessels—can evolve over time. What once carried petroleum and canned salmon now holds trees, birds, and stories. It’s the kind of stop that adds a little wonder to your day trip, and one more reason to fall in love with the charm of Anacortes.
Whether you’re walking the trail, waiting for the ferry, or simply searching for something memorable to do in town, the La Merced is a must-see slice of PNW history.
If you loved this and are dying to learn more about our beautiful PNW area connect with us.
If you discover the Anacortes Beached Boat and wish to share your adventure tag us at @Windermere_Anacortes
Windermere E3
A reflection of our 2025 Windermere E3: Engage, Energize, Elevate event.
At Windermere, growth isn’t just about closing transactions. It is about elevating the experience for everyone involved, from our agents to our clients and communities. We grow together to better serve you. That spirit of growth and connection was at the heart of our recent Windermere E3 event held at the beautiful Suncadia in Cle Elum. Agents from across the region came together for a few unforgettable days of education, collaboration, and celebration.
Why being part of Windermere is so special
From networking to dancing the night away, the event was a vibrant reminder of what makes being a part of Windermere so special. Together we share a commitment to learning, supporting one another, and serving our clients with excellence.
Lead by the best in the industry to better serve you
Throughout the event, agents engaged in insightful sessions led by some of the best in the industry. Sharing strategies to enhance communication, improve client care, and stay ahead in a constantly evolving market. Every conversation, breakout session, and connection was focused on one goal: how to provide a better experience for the buyers and sellers we serve.
Supporting community needs
Beyond education, we also came together to give back. Together we raised $22,000 through live and silent auctions to support homeless families in need. It was a powerful example of how collaboration and compassion go hand in hand at Windermere.
When you work with a Windermere agent, you are not just working with a real estate professional. You are partnering with someone who is continually learning, evolving, and striving to deliver the highest level of service. Because when we engage, energize, and elevate each other, we elevate the entire experience of buying or selling a home.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made Windermere E3 possible. A special thank you to Shawna Ader for creating such an inspiring and impactful event.
At Windermere, we don’t just sell homes. We build relationships, strengthen communities, and continually push ourselves to be better for you.
If you are considering buying or selling and are in need of a real estate professional by your side, connect with us.
Pumpkin Season & Halloween Fun in Skagit Valley
The crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves beneath our feet start to crunch as a foggy tingle fills the air… Halloween is creeping closer! It’s time to conjure up some devilishly delightful pumpkin carvings, sip on warm cider, and soak up the magic of the season. Whether you are a seasoned pumpkin-carving pro or just getting started, Skagit Valley is brimming with inspiration, farm-fresh pumpkins, and festive events to make this fall unforgettable. Keep reading for the best ways to celebrate pumpkin season & Halloween fun in Skagit Valley.
Skagit Valley’s Pumpkin Patches & Fall Hotspots
Skagit Valley isn’t just a spring tulip paradise — fall is just as magical here, with sprawling pumpkin fields, cozy farm stands, and fun everywhere you turn. Here are some of the best places to find your perfect pumpkin (and maybe a little autumn adventure along the way):
Gordon Skagit Farms (Mount Vernon)
A Skagit Valley icon, Gordon Skagit Farms is known for its incredible variety of pumpkins, hand-painted farm signs, and elaborate fall displays. Wander through their fields, snap a few family photos, and explore their artistic, Halloween-themed barn.
Schuh Farms (Mount Vernon)
With its cheerful red barn and rolling pumpkin fields, Schuh Farms offers hayrides, u-pick pumpkins, delicious homemade pies, and fresh apple cider. It’s a true fall wonderland for all ages.
Tulip Town Harvest Festival (Mount Vernon)
Known for its spring tulips, Tulip Town transforms into an autumn festival in October, complete with pumpkins, local vendors, seasonal treats, and plenty of fall photo ops.
Jones Creek Farms (Sedro-Woolley)
Perfect for families, Jones Creek Farms offers not only pumpkins but also u-pick apples and pears. It’s a wholesome day out with a true farm-to-table feel.
Kristoferson Farm (Camano Island — just south of Skagit)
While technically outside the valley, Kristoferson Farm is worth the short drive for its fall market, pumpkin patch, and stunning seasonal scenery.
Spooktacular Pumpkin Carving Ideas
Once you’ve picked your perfect pumpkin, it’s time to get creative!
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Classic Jack-o’-Lantern
– The timeless toothy grin never fails to deliver Halloween charm.
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Ghostly Designs
– Paint or draw spooky faces for a quick, mess-free alternative to carving. Bonus: glow-in-the-dark paint is amazing.
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Playful Cat
– Whiskers, pointy ears, and a mischievous grin for a whimsical touch.
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Dragon Masterpiece
– For the ambitious carver, a dragon will wow trick-or-treaters.
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Haunted House
– Carve intricate windows, ghosts, and creepy trees, then light it with twinkle lights for extra effect.
Halloween Happenings in Skagit Valley
Fall in Skagit Valley is filled with community spirit — and Halloween takes it up a notch. Keep an eye out for:
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Mount Vernon Downtown Trick-or-Treat
– Local businesses open their doors for family-friendly trick-or-treating.
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Anacortes Halloween Parade
– A festive small-town parade with costumes, candy, and fun for all ages.
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Haunted Forest at Northern State Recreation Area
– A spooky trail experience perfect for thrill-seekers.
Whether you’re here for the pumpkin patches, the cozy farm vibes, or the eerie Halloween fun, Skagit Valley offers a little something for everyone this season. So, grab your scarf, your carving kit, and maybe a caramel apple or two — and make this fall one to remember.
Are you thinking about calling Skagit Valley home? We’d love to help you find your perfect place here — just in time for next fall’s pumpkin season. Let’s connect.
Mistakes to Avoid After Approval
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is an exciting milestone—it means you’re one big step closer to owning your dream home. But don’t celebrate too soon! Between pre-approval and closing, there are critical do’s and don’ts that can make or break your transaction. Even small financial missteps, like opening a new credit card or making a large purchase, can put your loan at risk. To keep your home purchase on track, here are the most common mistakes to avoid after approval for a successful closing.
Make Large Purchases
Making a large credit purchase equates to increasing debt, which raises a buyer’s debt-to-income ratio. Large cash purchases decrease a buyer’s cash-readiness from the time when they were pre-approved. In both scenarios, the lender may call into question a buyer’s ability to make their mortgage payments.
Quit or Change Your Job
Knowing that a buyer has a stable source of income is important to lenders. Accordingly, it is best for a buyer to wait until after the home loan process is complete before taking steps to change their employment. Not only could changing jobs potentially put their mortgage pre-approval at risk, but it could also delay their settlement, since it takes time to prove a new salary.
Forget to Pay Your Bills
Missing bill payments can be especially harmful to a buyer’s candidacy in the time between getting pre-approved and closing on the home. During pre-approval, lenders are using your ability to pay bills on time to help them paint a picture of your finances and it’s important to keep that picture consistent.
Open a New Line of Credit
Opening new credit accounts will likely change a buyer’s credit score, which may cause adjustments in their interest rate. Lenders, upon seeing a new line of credit, even a store credit card, may elect to review the buyer’s risk of non-payment.
Pay Off Your Debt
While most people would think paying off debt is a good thing, if a buyer pays off any significant loans or credit card debt after pre-approval, their lender will want to know where the money came from. The decrease in debt will also have an effect on the buyer’s debt-to-income ratio, which may alter their creditworthiness.
If you found this information helpful and are preparing to purchase a home and don’t currently have an agent representing you, feel free to connect with us so we can help guide you through a smooth and successful home purchasing experience.
Minimize the Stress of Selling Your Home
Selling your home isn’t just a transaction — it’s the close of one chapter and the start of another. It’s packing up years of memories, navigating endless to-do lists, and stepping into the unknown. And while it can feel overwhelming, there are simple, intentional steps you can take to make the process less stressful and more empowering. Let us help you minimize the stress of selling your home.
Here’s how to move forward with confidence — and maybe even a little excitement.
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Feel the Feelings
It’s normal to get sentimental. Your home has been the backdrop for milestones, laughter, and life’s little moments. Instead of brushing off the emotions, acknowledge them. Take a walk through each room. Snap photos of favorite spots. Hold on to the memories while making space for what’s next.
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Start Decluttering — Early
One of the biggest stress triggers? Realizing how much stuff you’ve accumulated. Start small — one closet, one drawer, one room at a time. Keep what matters, donate what doesn’t, and toss the rest. Use this article to help guide your process.
If you struggle to let go of sentimental items, create a small “keepsake box” to preserve the most meaningful pieces. This helps you prepare your home for showings, showcases its best features, and positions it to sell for top dollar.
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Look Ahead
Nostalgia is natural, but try shifting focus to what’s ahead. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating, visualize the possibilities. Create a vision board or jot down what you’re excited about in your next space. This keeps your energy moving forward instead of holding you back.
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Lean on Your Real Estate Pro
You don’t have to do this alone. A great real estate agent will guide you through pricing, staging, marketing, and negotiations — so you can focus on your move, not the stress.
The sooner you bring your agent in, the better. They’ll help assess your home’s value, suggest improvements, and create a plan to get the best results. From market insight to moving tips, they’re your partner every step of the way.
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Have a Moving Game Plan
Avoid last-minute chaos by breaking your move into manageable steps. Set target dates for decluttering, packing, repairs, and booking movers. A clear timeline makes the transition smoother and far less overwhelming.
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Get Ahead on Repairs
A pre-inspection can help you spot and prioritize repairs before listing. Some fixes may be essential, while others might not impact your sale. Work with your agent to decide where to invest your time and budget — and ask about programs like Windermere Ready that can help cover upfront costs.
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Embrace the Journey
Selling your home is both an ending and a beginning. Yes, you’re leaving behind memories — but you’re also stepping into new adventures, neighbors, and experiences. Home isn’t defined by the walls themselves, but by the love and memories you bring with you.
Bottom Line:
Selling your home can be emotional, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right mindset, a plan in place, and a trusted real estate professional by your side, you can move forward with confidence.
Are you ready to start your next chapter? Let’s connect and make the process as smooth — and stress-free — as possible.
Professional Photography is Essential to Selling
When it comes to selling your home, the saying “a picture is worth a thousand words” has never been more true. In today’s digital-first real estate market, your home’s first showing happens online—and that means photos are everything. If you find yourself wondering why professional photography is essential to selling, keep reading.
Whether it’s on the MLS, social media, or a home search app, buyers begin forming their opinions of your home within seconds of first seeing it. If your photos are not grabbing their attention (in a good way), you could be missing out on serious interest—and serious offers.
The Power of Professional Photography
Still not convinced? Here’s what the data says:
Homes with high-quality photography sell faster than those with lower-quality visuals. 32% faster according to the National Association of Realtors to put it in perspective. That means less time on the market and more money in your pocket!
Professionally photographed homes sell for more money. For example, a study done by Redfin in 2013 found that homes sold for $3,400 to $11,200 more relative to their list prices when photographed professionally with a DSLR camera.
The National Association of Realtors also explains that 95% of buyers use online search during their home-buying journey. That means photography plays a significant factor in grabbing the potential buyer’s attention.
In a sea of listings, eye-catching photography doesn’t just make your home look good—it makes it stand out. It compels the viewer to click the link to learn more about the home.
What Professional Photography Can Do That Your Phone Can’t
While smartphone cameras have come a long way, professional real estate photographers bring expertise and tools that make a real difference, such as:
- Wide-angle lenses to capture entire rooms in one shot
- Professional lighting to ensure every room feels bright and inviting
- Editing and retouching that corrects colors and enhance details
- Composition expertise to highlight the most desirable features
- Staging advice to prepare each space before shooting

The goal isn’t to mislead—it’s to present your home in its best light, literally and figuratively.
Your Home’s Marketing Deserves More
Professional photography is not just about pretty pictures—it’s about marketing your largest investment effectively. Think about how much time and money businesses spend on branding and product photography. Shouldn’t your home, which is likely your biggest asset, get the same treatment?
As your agent, we make this a priority. Our listings always feature professional photography because we know how powerful visuals can be. We invest in this upfront because we know it pays off—faster sales, higher offers, and better results.
Bonus Tip: Combine Photography with Video & Virtual Tours
If you’d like to go the extra mile, consider adding a virtual tour, drone footage, or a cinematic walkthrough video. These additions offer buyers an immersive experience before ever stepping foot in the home. In many cases, it is these experiences that help the buyer(s) fall in love before they ever step foot inside the home.
Final Thoughts
Professional photography isn’t just a luxury in today’s real estate market—it’s a necessity. It can mean the difference between a buyer scrolling past your home and scheduling a showing.
If you’re considering listing your home, let’s talk about how we’ll showcase it to its fullest potential—starting with photos that tell a compelling story.
Curious how your home could shine? Let’s connect.








