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Edith Macefield, a Seattle Anti Development activist refused to sell her house to developers in hopes to save some of Seattle’s originality. Unfortunately, the house’s future is not looking so bright after a failed attempt to ship the house to Orcas Island.

Future of Edith Macefield’s Home in 2015

How do you feel about the constant up-rise of developments in Seattle?

One of our favorite contractors, Ttamel Enterprises/Brook Holmes, routinely works with us on the maintenance of our rental portfolio and always delivers amazing service. Brooks’ work is delivered with perfection every time.  Thank you Brook!

If Seattle were to mandate affordable housing on new construction would we actually see more affordable housing on the market? Or would we see less building due to the constraints on builders ability to make the numbers work. What do you think? Here’s one economist’s view…

http://www.smartgrowthseattle.org/inclusionary-zoning-heads-united-states-supreme-court/

If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to travel more, now is your time! According to Fortune.com, airlines are offering some of the lowest prices in a long time. CNN Money says, “In the first nine months of 2015 the four largest airlines in the United States saved over $11 billion collectively in fuel costs.” The lower fuel costs are allowing them to offer cheaper flights. Round trip tickets are 15% cheaper than they were in January of 2015. Where are you headed?

http://fortune.com/2016/01/12/cheap-airline-tickets/

Seattleites and HALA have many ideas that they believe will help our affordable housing issues, some ideas are great, and some are not so great. One idea that is actually feasible, and already being executed in certain areas, is what is being called, “detached accessory dwelling units. (DADU’s)” They are single family cottages built on a property where there is already a home. More info on DADU’s here…

http://www.seattletimes.com/opinion/will-easing-the-rules-for-backyard-cottages-help-or-hurt-seattle-livability/

The lack of diversity in Seattle and the growing gentrification is all too clear. The African American community wants to do something about it! In Seattle, African American income rates have dropped drastically and the Central District which was once occupied by mostly Blacks has been gentrified. The percentage of African American’s in the CD has dropped from 51% to 21% in the last twenty years. The city seems to be following this movement full throttle and it looks as though Seattle may be initiating a really powerful trend and statement if other cities follow suit! “Seattle has a chance to lead the nation in mitigating gentrification and realizing the principles of shared prosperity,” Garrett said. “When we’re our best, it benefits everyone.”

http://www.thestranger.com/blogs/slog/2016/01/19/23437858/city-of-seattle-invests-in-the-development-of-central-districts-africatown

This creative small greenhouse was made from recycled goods. The bricks were in the dump as were the wood box frame pieces. The glass top is a recycled bay window! Start your “green” project here. Recognition goes to Trey Vincent for his creative innovation and his earth conscious ways.

#Recycling#freeisbest#usefullife#virginplants#herbs#imagination#farmlif

Ever wondered how to keep that water out of your basement? Having it flow into your yard or the neighbors isn’t the answer. Here’s an ingenious way to send it to the street and it looks great too!