top of page
Simona Groves
driven by expertise, energized by passion
Search


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 313 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 302 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 282 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 302 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 303 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 302 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 283 min read


Best Winter Hiking Trails on Whidbey Island: Explore Nature’s Beauty in the Cold Season
Whidbey Island’s natural beauty shines year-round, but winter brings a special kind of magic to the landscape. The trails are quieter,...

Simona
Jan 302 min read


Halloween Safety Tips for Homeowners: Keep Your Home Safe and Spooky
Halloween is a time for fun, frights, and plenty of trick-or-treaters! As a homeowner, it's important to ensure your home is safe for...

Simona
Oct 1, 20242 min read


Property Assessments and Taxes in Island County
As a trusted Real Estate advisor, my commitment is to empower my clients with essential insights into the real estate market on Whidbey...

Simona
Jun 21, 20243 min read


Managing Whidbey Island's Aquifers: Preventing Saltwater Intrusion
A significant portion of newcomers to Whidbey Island have little to no prior experience living with a well. Apart from the City of Oak...

Simona
Apr 29, 20242 min read


PNW Garden Spring Prep: A Homeowner's Guide for Springtime in the Pacific Northwest
As the days grow longer and the first signs of warmth begin to thaw the winter chill, it's time for Pacific Northwest homeowners to dust...

Simona
Apr 9, 20242 min read


Thinking about retirement? Leveraging Home Equity in Today's Sellers' Market
As retirement approaches, or if you have already entered this phase (congratulations), you might contemplate whether your current...

Simona
Mar 1, 20242 min read


Water Quality on Whidbey Island: Insights and Solutions for Sustainable Living.
The natural flow of freshwater into saltwater is generally untroublesome; the challenge lies in preventing the reverse flow. Kudos if...

Simona
Feb 7, 20244 min read


Unveiling Whidbey's Heritage: A Captivating Dive into Its Historical Marvels
Whidbey's foundation is forged from some of the Earth's recent geological events. Originally, the west coast of North America resided...

Simona
Jan 29, 20245 min read


Cozy Home Ideas for Winter Comfort
As winter wraps us in its chilly embrace, there's nothing more inviting than transforming your home into a cozy haven. Embracing the...

Simona
Jan 23, 20242 min read


Embrace Winter Wellness: A Guide to Your Healthiest Season
As the winter chill settles in, it's crucial to prioritize our well-being and adapt our lifestyles to the seasonal changes. In this blog...

Simona
Dec 29, 20232 min read


Harvesting Clams and Mussels on Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island, nestled in the scenic Pacific Northwest, stands as an enchanting destination beckoning both residents and visitors to...

Simona
Nov 30, 20232 min read


Pages & Lattes: Unveiling the Magic of Oak Harbor's Book Rack!
Tucked cozily in the heart of Oak Harbor lies our beloved local bookstore "The Book Rack" a true gem brimming with literary treasures....

Simona
Nov 2, 20232 min read


Prolong the freshness of your herbs.
Keep nurturing your gardens through the winter season with these 5 alternative methods, ensuring your herb garden remains vibrant and...

Simona
Oct 24, 20233 min read
bottom of page