Welcome to the July/August 2026 issue of our newsletter! In this issue, we share our latest Market Update, a special resource from our E&V network, the summer edition of GG Magazine and news about our upcoming playbook. We also bring you a selection of local events and happenings, an End of Summer 2026 playlist for your enjoyment, and more. See “In This Issue” for a quick preview.
Thank you for your continued support of our team! |
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At Home with E&V
- GG Magazine
- Homeowner’s Living Trust Playbook
- Selected Local Events and Happenings
- Etcetera
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More Choice, More Opportunity
Summer has brought buyers something they have not had much of in recent years: room to think. With more homes on the market, buyers can compare options, take a closer look and, in some cases, negotiate.
Mortgage rates have begun creeping up again, and uncertainty about where they may move this fall could keep some buyers cautious. Those who remain active, however, may face less competition and find homeowners more receptive, particularly when a home has been on the market for a while.
Looking beyond the immediate market, the region’s expanding AI sector could become another source of housing demand and change. As companies grow and future liquidity events create wealth, more people may be positioned to purchase homes, move up or invest in real estate.
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| Commercial Sidebar:
Bellevue’s AI Ecosystem Takes Shape OpenAI, xAI, CoreWeave and a growing number of smaller AI ventures are establishing or expanding operations in Bellevue and the surrounding region.
The mix of established companies and smaller ventures, reflected in the energy surrounding the recently concluded Seattle Tech Week, suggests an emerging regional ecosystem that could generate demand for flexible office space, housing, restaurants and services as these companies grow. |
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Closing Thoughts
As we move into late summer, the market is creating opportunities that may not be obvious from the headlines alone. More inventory, shifting interest rates and growth in the region’s AI economy are affecting different people and properties in different ways.
The next few months may reward preparation more than prediction. Whether you are considering a move, an investment or a commercial real estate decision, we welcome the opportunity to help you evaluate what these changes may mean for you. Julie & Robert |
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A Higher Standard of Home Security
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Your home should be a sanctuary. It is a place where you should feel completely safe, secure, and in control. Modern home security goes far beyond traditional locks and alarms. It requires smart choices, proactive preparation, and identifying hidden vulnerabilities.
To help you protect what matters most, Engel & Völkers, in partnership with Ring, has created the new Engel & Völkers Home Security Guide. This resource is filled with essential, often-overlooked strategies to secure your property and loved ones. From auditing your home's perimeter to securing digital networks, it offers useful insights for modern living. Plus, as an Engel & Völkers client, you can access exclusive promotional offers and pricing on select smart home security products from Ring.
Discover how thoughtful preparation can elevate your peace of mind. View the guide online here or click below to request a copy. |
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The summer issue of GG Magazine explores the art of living "in flow" through inspiring stories of creativity, reinvention, and connection.
The Flow Edition celebrates the people, places, and moments that shape a more meaningful way of life and features:
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- Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu
- Architect Francis Kéré
- Artist Mariko Mori
- A journey through southwest Sicily
- A look at ultra-luxury yachting
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Call, text or email us for your copy of GG Magazine or explore the digital version at the links below. |
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We look forward to sharing our Homeowner’s Living Trust Playbook on August 17. Our new playbook focuses on a subject that many homeowners encounter as they think about long-term planning for their families and homes. |
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The Homeowner’s Living Trust Playbook is designed as a practical and easy-to-understand resource covering common questions homeowners often have regarding living trusts, including planning considerations, ownership issues, family coordination, and future property transitions.
Our goal is to provide a straightforward overview that helps homeowners become more informed as they evaluate estate planning and real estate decisions with their professional advisors. |
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If you would like to receive a copy of the playbook when it is available or learn more about our Trusts & Estates Property Advisory, please feel free to contact us. The playbook will also be available to download by request on our website. |
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SELECTED LOCAL EVENTS & HAPPENINGS |
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Read our most recent past newsletters here: |
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Thank you for reading! Julie Fontanez and Robert Laing |
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Follow us (click links below) |
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