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Simona Groves
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September on Whidbey Island & Anacortes: When Summer Meets Fall
There is something about September in the Pacific Northwest that I absolutely love. Summer hasn’t quite left us yet, but you can feel a change in the air. The mornings are a little cooler, the evenings start to arrive a little earlier, and life seems to settle into a slightly slower rhythm. Here on Whidbey Island and just across the water in Anacortes, September is that wonderful in-between month—still full of things to do, but without quite the same hustle and bustle of summ

Simona
8 hours ago4 min read


Whidbey Island Scholarships: Celebrating Our 2026 Windermere Foundation Recipients
One of the most rewarding parts of being involved in the Whidbey Island community is having the opportunity to support and celebrate the next generation through programs like Whidbey Island scholarships that help students take important steps toward their future. Through the Windermere Foundation, I am honored to help recognize local students who are working hard to build meaningful careers and pursue their goals. This year, I had the privilege of awarding two $2,000 Winderme

Simona
Jul 302 min read


Living on Whidbey Island in July: Why Summer Is One of the Best Times to Experience Island Life
July is one of the most beautiful and vibrant months on Whidbey Island. The days are long, the weather is warm, and the entire island comes alive with outdoor living, community events, and coastal beauty at its peak. Whether you already call Whidbey home or are thinking about making a move, summer is when island life truly shines. Whidbey Island Summer Living at Its Best In July, life naturally moves outdoors. Mornings start with brighter skies, evenings stretch later into su

Simona
Jun 303 min read


Community Service Day Whidbey Island | Volunteering at YMCA Camp Casey
One of my favorite traditions at Windermere is Community Service Day. Every year, our offices pause business for a day and come together to give back to the communities we live and work in. It’s a tradition that started in 1984, and since then, Windermere agents and staff have contributed more than one million volunteer hours to local organizations and community projects. Being part of that legacy always feels meaningful, but even more so when you’re out in the community expe

Simona
Jun 122 min read


Behind the Build: What It Is Really Like Closing on New Construction
This past week I closed on a new-construction home, and it feels like the perfect moment to share what this process is really like from start to finish. New construction often looks simple from the outside. A buyer chooses a home, watches it get built, and moves in. In reality, there are many steps in between that require patience, communication, and attention to detail. The excitement of something brand new There is something special about new construction. Everything is fre

Simona
Jun 12 min read


What 10 Years in Real Estate Has Taught Me About the Whidbey Island Real Estate Market
After more than a decade in real estate, one of the most common questions I still hear is, “Is now a good time to buy or sell?” It’s a fair question, and an important one. The truth I’ve learned over the years is that timing the market perfectly is something very few people ever actually do. What matters far more is understanding your personal timing, your goals, and how those align with current market conditions. Real estate isn't just about numbers on a chart. It’s about li

Simona
Apr 293 min read


Spring on Whidbey Island: A Season to Slow Down and Enjoy the Island
Spring on Whidbey Island has a quiet kind of magic. After the stillness of winter, the island begins to wake up again. The days are a little longer, gardens begin to bloom, and you can feel the shift as locals and visitors alike spend more time outdoors. It is one of the most beautiful times of the year here. The landscape becomes vibrant again, the air feels fresh, and every corner of the island offers something to enjoy. One of the first signs of spring is the return of col

Simona
Mar 302 min read


Spring Projects That Pay Off When You Sell Your Home
Spring is the perfect time for homeowners to refresh their space, whether you’re planning to sell soon or just want to enjoy a brighter, more inviting home. The warmer weather and longer days naturally inspire cleaning, organizing, and small updates, and the right projects can boost your home’s value, appeal, and marketability. In this blog post, we’ll explore spring home renovation ideas that give the best return on investment (ROI). These updates are practical, manageable,

Simona
Feb 272 min read


Feasibility When Buying Vacant Land: The Due Diligence That Protects Your Investment
Buying vacant land is very different from buying an existing home. With land, you are not just purchasing what you see. You are purchasing what is possible. That is why the feasibility period is one of the most important parts of a vacant land transaction. Feasibility gives buyers the time and legal right to confirm that the property can be used as intended, before becoming fully committed to the purchase. Zoning and Land Use: Start With What Is Allowed The first step in any

Simona
Jan 293 min read


Real Estate Market Myths to Leave Behind This Year
A new year often brings fresh goals, new perspectives, and a lot of questions about real estate. Many of those questions stem from common real estate market myths that continue to circulate year after year. Between headlines, social media advice, and stories from friends, it can be hard to tell what is still true and what no longer applies. As the market continues to evolve, this is a great time to clear up a few common myths and start the year with clearer expectations. Here

Simona
Dec 29, 20253 min read


A Cozy December Day on Whidbey Island: Breakfast, Holiday Lights & Charming Inns
December on Whidbey Island is a magical time. The crisp winter air, cozy cafés, and twinkling holiday lights create the perfect backdrop for a day of exploring, shopping, and relaxing. Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting for the holidays, this Whidbey Island December itinerary will help you enjoy a full day of cozy breakfasts, festive lights, and charming inns. Plan Your Morning: A Cozy Breakfast on Your Whidbey Island December Itinerary A December day on Whidbey Isla

Simona
Nov 30, 20253 min read


Hosting Thanksgiving? How Your Home Can Shine
Thanksgiving is more than just a meal; it's an experience. It’s about creating an atmosphere where warmth, comfort, and joy abound. Whether you’re hosting for the first time or are a seasoned pro, a little preparation and attention to detail can transform your home into a cozy, inviting retreat that leaves everyone feeling welcome and impressed. Even if you’re not selling, these tips can help your home shine this holiday season. 🍂 1. Make a Memorable First Impression Your en

Simona
Oct 31, 20253 min read


Pumpkin Spice and Property Advice: Fall Tips for Homeowners
Get your home ready for fall with essential homeowners tips—from seasonal maintenance and energy savings to cozy décor and market-smart advice for October.

Simona
Sep 30, 20252 min read


Celebrate Fall on Whidbey Island: September Events & Activities
September is such a wonderful time on Whidbey Island. The summer crowds begin to taper off, but the weather often stays mild, giving us...

Simona
Aug 28, 20252 min read


5 Things Buyers Regret Not Checking Before Buying a Home
Buying a home is a big deal. It’s exciting, emotional, and often a whirlwind of decisions and deadlines. Amid all the house tours,...

Simona
Jul 30, 20252 min read


Your Guide to Outdoor Dining on Whidbey
One of my favorite things about summer on Whidbey Island? Enjoying Whidbey's outdoor dining. Whether it’s a casual bite by the water or a...

Simona
Jun 30, 20252 min read


Whidbey Island Summer: Why June Is the Perfect Time to Experience Coastal Living
There’s something truly special about Whidbey Island in June. The shift into early summer happens gradually, almost quietly, but before...

Simona
May 30, 20253 min read


Welcome May: Spring Home Refresh Tips for Cleaning, Planting, and Refreshing Your Space
As we welcome May, it’s the perfect time for a spring home refresh. The air is fresher, the days are longer, and it’s an opportunity to...

Simona
Apr 30, 20252 min read


Outdoor Living Trends for 2025: Make the Most of Your Backyard
Spring is finally here, and with longer days and warmer weather, it's the perfect time to refresh your outdoor space! Whether you want to...

Simona
Mar 31, 20253 min read


Penn Cove Mussels & MusselFest: A Whidbey Island Tradition
A close-up view of a steaming pot of freshly cooked mussels, garnished with herbs and vegetables, ready to serve for a delicious seafood...

Simona
Feb 28, 20253 min read
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