Researching Homes in Tacoma
Glenn Fleishman at the Seattle Times ran an interesting piece yesterday on using the internet to search out the dirty little secrets of a house in King County.
Why is this gorgeous, restored Craftsman so cheap?
Similar to Fleishman, I have my repertoire of sites I hit any time a property seems intriguing. Here are the three I always check:
1. The Tacoma Public Library Northwest Room. Both the building index and the photography collection is a treasure trove of historical information and highly addicting. I found a photograph of a woman’s luncheon in the dining room of my old apartment. I’ve discovered which houses in my neighborhood were designed by the same architect. I’ve found sites of murders, parties, and lots of random trivia. Go to parties and tell the host, “this is a great example of Darmer’s early work, don’t you agree?” Use wild card characters in the search to explore entire blocks or streets. The interface is a bit clunky, but the data is amazing. If you are interested in neighborhood history this is the place to start.
2. The Pierce County Tax Assessor’s Website. The one stop shop for information on previous sales, plot information, assessed values, and permits.
3. Google Maps. Google’s entrance into the mapping world is extremely impressive and I’m surprised at the number of people that haven’t explored this site. Click on the satellite view to find the firehouse next door or the Safeway in your back yard.
If you have any other resources, send them to me and I’ll update this posting.
Filed under: On the Market
5 comments
T tacoma_1 March 7, 2013
I hope they keep it kitschy
T tacoma_1 March 7, 2013
They do need to fix the pathway outta the bar. It’s fine going in, but it always sways back and forth when leaving.
M Mama&Cubs March 7, 2013
This actually makes me sad, there was really something wonderful about the ambiance and that wonderful dark bar.
J Jesse March 7, 2013
I sorta like the old School feel of this joint. I can see where it could be cleaned up but keep that retro feel – its awesome.
M Mo March 9, 2013
I hope to see wood floors put in to keep the dark comfy feeling, some updated tables and chairs would be awesome as well. We beg you keep the ships wheel, it’s so cooooool. Luv you Harbor Lights!!!