SOURCE: Windermere

As manufacturing technologies continue to drive down production costs and increase the availability of electric vehicles (EVs), they are becoming more affordable and accessible than ever. And as the shift from gas-powered cars to EVs continues to accelerate, more and more consumers are recognizing the significant benefits of this transition, like lower running expenses, a smaller carbon footprint, and improved driving ranges. Additionally, many EV owners find that at-home charging stations provide the ease of refueling at home while alleviating the pressure on the overburdened public charging infrastructure, becoming an essential asset for their daily routines and enhancing their overall EV ownership experience. Before making the switch to an EV, preparing your home for this new lifestyle is important. Here are some key preparation tips to ensure you are set up for success when welcoming an EV into your garage.

Selecting a Charging Level

Charging at home has become the most convenient and cost-effective way to maintain a healthy charge for your EV. Countless EV owners express an appreciation for being able to organize a personalized charging schedule, optimize energy use, save on costs, and avoid the hassle of searching for available public chargers. As you are considering making the switch to an EV or setting up an at-home charging station, it’s necessary to acknowledge the different levels of EV charging to determine which best suits your lifestyle and offers peace of mind.
There are currently three models of EV charging: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 or DC fast charging. Deciding the right level depends on your driving habits, current home electrical setup, and the model of your car or if it is a full battery electric vehicle (BEV) or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

Level 1 Charging

Level 1 is the slowest option available and uses a standard 120-volt outlet that you can typically find in any room of your home, including your garage, which means there may be no additional installation work needed. Oftentimes, when you purchase an EV, it may come equipped with a level 1 charging cable; however, this approach can take up to 50 hours to fully charge a BEV, making it a more suitable and sufficient option for those with lower mileage and range needs, or owners of a PHEV which can be fully charged in 5-6 hours.

Level 2 Charging

Most used for residential installations are Level 2 chargers, which utilize a 240-volt outlet, like those used for an electric stove or dryer. These can charge BEVs from empty to full in about 4-10 hours and PHEVs in just 1-2 hours, making them the efficient choice for those looking to maximize charging speed and convenience. Level 2 chargers have higher upfront costs and installation processes because they often require upgrades to your electrical system and a licensed electrician for professional installment. However, the benefits far outshine this initial investment, as with level 2 charging, owners can optimize time efficiency and integrate a charging schedule by plugging in at night, guaranteeing a full charge in the morning, saving them money on fuel prices, and reducing reliance on public charging.

Level 3 or DC Rapid Charging

DC rapid charging is the fastest charging method available, using 480 volts to charge EVs in as little as 30 minutes. DC rapid chargers are primarily found at public charging stations, making them ideal for quick “fill-ups” on road trips. They are rarely installed in homes due to high costs and the significant electrical upgrades that would be required.

Safety Measures for Preparing Your Garage and Using an At-Home EV Charger

It’s important to follow specific safety procedures when preparing your space for installation. Start by checking if your current electrical infrastructure is up to code and ready to support your new charging system. This may require help from a licensed electrician who will do a full assessment beforehand and recommend any necessary upgrades. Once your home’s electrical panel capacity can handle the load of the EV charger, you are now ready to follow these few safety measures to prepare your garage and start using your EV charging system:

• Always invest in certified equipment that meets current safety regulations and is covered by a warranty. Low-quality equipment can lead to safety hazards, damage to your vehicle, or expensive repairs.
• Consider the location of your charging station and make sure it is easily accessible, adequately placed three to four feet off the ground, and away from any water source or flammable materials.
• Climate-control your garage with proper insulation to maintain charging efficiency, especially in cold climates, as colder temperatures can adversely affect charging times.
• Only utilize a dedicated circuit, and never use multiple adapters or extension cords.
• Avoid overcharging your EV or leaving your EV plugged in longer than necessary.
• Regularly inspect the charging station, cable, and outlet for signs of damage or wear and tear that could be potentially dangerous. Avoid attempting to repair electrical equipment on your own.

Installing an At-Home Charging Station

Now that you’ve taken all the safety measures, you can install your EV charging system. If you’ve opted for a level 2 charger, the best thing you can do is get in touch with a licensed electrician. Consulting with a professional is recommended for more than just assessing your home’s electrical capacity but also verifying that your setup meets safety standards and that the electrical connections are securely installed and working correctly. With the proper installation and precautions in place, you can now enjoy safe, reliable, and efficient at-home EV charging!

SOURCE: Windermere

SOURCE: Windermere

As more and more people desire an escape from everyday life, the appeal of second home ownership has grown stronger. But when the dream of owning a vacation home meets the reality of maintenance, expenses, and logistics, many buyers begin to question whether the rewards outweigh the challenges. Esterre, in partnership with Windermere Real Estate, is changing the narrative by introducing a fresh, innovative approach to second homeownership that redefines what’s possible. Here’s all you need to know about this exciting new partnership.

The Challenges of Owning a Vacation Home

Beyond the upfront purchase of a vacation home, the ongoing costs of maintenance, landscaping, and furnishing can quickly add up, making the experience feel less like a relaxing retreat and more like managing a second job. On top of that, many owners find themselves traveling less and tied to their vacation homes to make the most of their investment. While the idea of having a dedicated getaway is appealing, it can limit the freedom to explore new destinations and create diverse experiences. These common hurdles have left many wondering if there’s a more flexible, hassle-free way to enjoy the benefits of second home ownership.

Meet Esterre

Esterre, founded in Seattle in partnership with Windermere in 2024, is redefining what it means to own a second home. By introducing a fresh approach to second homeownership, Esterre enables individuals to have an equal equity ownership in a portfolio of carefully curated properties in some of Washington State’s most desirable destinations. This model eliminates the headaches and stress of maintenance, furnishing, landscaping, cleaning, and financial management, offering owners a seamless, stress-free experience. Each home in the portfolio is thoughtfully designed and fully managed, allowing owners to simply enjoy their time away.

How Windermere and Esterre Are Simplifying Second Home Ownership

Windermere’s collaboration with Esterre marks an exciting step forward in the real estate world. Combining Windermere’s trusted expertise with Esterre’s innovative concept, this partnership offers a flexible, transparent, and economically sensible solution to traditional vacation home ownership challenges. For a fraction of the cost of purchasing a single vacation home, buyers gain equity in a portfolio of high-end properties across Washington State’s most scenic destinations, including Snoqualmie Summit, San Juan Island, Whidbey Island, Fidalgo Island, and the Olympic Peninsula, with more locations to come. These homes, all within a 2- to 3-hour drive from Seattle, are thoughtfully chosen to provide guests with various environments and experiences. Owners can enjoy over a month of annual access to these luxurious properties, with unlimited short notice stays available within 5 days of booking. And, unlike traditional timeshares, Esterre also incorporates a built-in exit strategy, selling the portfolio after 12 years and distributing the proceeds to owners.

Whether it’s a serene island retreat or a mountain escape, this partnership creates a unique opportunity for agents to connect with clients who dream of owning a second home but are deterred by the high costs and responsibilities. Together, Windermere and Esterre are opening doors to a more accessible, flexible, and memorable way to explore Washington State and build lasting memories.

SOURCE: Windermere

SOURCE: Windermere

Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese practice, is not just about creating a calming and aesthetic space. It’s about creating a space that resonates with your energy and promotes well-being. By balancing the world’s five natural elements : water, fire, earth, metal, and wood, you can transform your living space into an environment of serenity and positivity. And the best part? It doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. If you’re looking to find new ways to rearrange furniture, declutter your area, or introduce natural elements into your space, Feng Shui might just be the missing piece! Here are five simple ways to embrace the elements of Feng Shui in your home.

1. Create Depth with Water

Each element in Feng Shui carries a unique meaning. By integrating these elements in a balanced way, you can create a space that is not just aesthetically pleasing but also promotes well-being. For instance, water is believed to bring prosperity and wisdom into your life. To incorporate water into your home, add dark blue or black accents like hand towels, artwork, and small area rugs. Reflective surfaces or mirrors can also be used to symbolize the fluidity and reflection of water. Feng Shui experts believe that purposefully placed water features both within and outside of a home will bring about positive energy and good luck.

2. Transform Energy with Fire

Fire, a symbol of passion, energy, and transformation in Feng Shui, can be a powerful addition to your home. You can start by strategically placing and lighting a few candles, which is a simple way to introduce the fire element. But, if you are looking for a more intense effect, consider incorporating an indoor or outdoor fireplace to encourage gatherings and create a warm, inviting ambiance. You can also add design accents to your home using reds and oranges which will add more dynamic fire energy.

3. Establish Stability with Earth

In Feng Shui, the earth element can be associated with stability and different grounding forces. When we think of the various aspects of earth within a home, we tend to gravitate towards the more natural features like stone counters, wooden furniture, and clay accents. However, the earth element in Feng Shui goes even further than just aesthetics. More ways to incorporate this element into your home include decluttering and organizing to create flow, inviting nature in with more houseplants and natural light, and utilizing earthy tones like browns and beiges. You can also enhance these earth-centered qualities by repositioning your furniture to create more harmonious spaces.

4. Promote Precision with Metal

According to Feng Shui principles, metal is a strong symbol of precision, wealth, and efficiency. There are plenty of ways to integrate metal into your home beyond mere stainless-steel appliances. Copper, bronze, brass, and nickel accents add warmth to kitchens and living spaces. When incorporating these metals, consider using decorative features like cabinet hardware, lighting fixtures, and other metal accent furniture.

5. Embrace Vitality with Wood

Wood, which symbolizes growth, vitality, and new beginnings, is the final core element in Feng Shui. Consider using natural materials like bamboo, rattan, or reclaimed wood when designing with this element in your home. There are a number of ways you can harness the energy of wood, such as through furniture, flooring, or even smaller wooden accents like coasters and photo frames.

SOURCE: Windermere