Selling your home is not just a transaction—it’s a milestone. At CENTURY 21 Real Estate Center, we recognize the importance of this decision and are here to provide expertise, strategies, and support to make the process smooth and successful.

What We Know About Sellers:

• Motivations Vary by Generation: Baby Boomers lead the pack in home sales, often downsizing or relocating closer to family. Millennials, however, typically sell due to changing family needs or upgrading to larger homes.
• The Challenges Sellers Face: Setting the right price, preparing a home for market, and timing the sale are critical concerns for sellers.
• The Importance of First Impressions: Staging, professional photography, and targeted marketing are key to attracting buyers in today’s competitive market.

How We Help:

• Pricing Expertise: Our agents conduct in-depth market analyses to ensure your home is competitively priced.
• Customized Marketing Plans: We use a mix of digital and traditional strategies to maximize exposure.
• Professional Preparation: From staging advice to coordinating repairs, we’ll help your home shine.
• Smooth Transactions: We handle negotiations, paperwork, and timelines so you can focus on your next chapter.

Trust us to guide you through the selling process with confidence and ease. Reach out to learn more about how we can help you achieve your selling goals.

Western Washington is a hiker’s paradise, offering a stunning variety of landscapes from lush rainforests to rugged mountain peaks and breathtaking coastlines. Whether you’re a seasoned trail enthusiast or a casual weekend explorer, there’s a hike for everyone in this beautiful region. Here are some of the best hikes in Western Washington that you shouldn’t miss.

Mount Rainier National Park: Skyline Trail

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging       

Length: 5.5 miles (Round Trip)

Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet

This trail offers stunning views of Mount Rainier, glaciers, alpine meadows, and wildflowers in the summer. While the hike can be strenuous, especially at higher altitudes, the views from Panorama Point make the effort absolutely worth it. During the summer months, you’ll experience one of the most picturesque hikes in the state.

Rattlesnake Ledge

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 4 miles (Round Trip)

Elevation Gain: 1,160 feet

Located just a short drive from Seattle, Rattlesnake Ledge offers one of the most popular hikes in the area, and for good reason. The trail is relatively short but provides amazing views of Rattlesnake Lake, the Snoqualmie River Valley, and Mount Si. It’s perfect for a half-day adventure. Be advised that it can get fairly crowded on weekends.

Lake 22 Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 5.4 miles (Round Trip)

Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet

If you’re looking to enjoy a beautiful lake and serene forest surroundings, the Lake 22 Trail in the North Cascades is a great option. The trail ascends through a forest of ferns and moss before opening up to the pristine Lake 22, nestled at the base of towering cliffs. This hike is ideal for intermediate hikers, as the elevation gain is steady but not overly difficult.

Twin Falls Trail

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Length: 3.6 miles (Round Trip)

Elevation Gain: 500 feet

The Twin Falls Trail near North Bend is a beautiful and relatively easy hike. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Twin Falls, and a picturesque waterfall that drops in two dramatic tiers. This is a great option for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a scenic, tranquil hike without a lot of elevation gain.

Deception Pass State Park: Rosario Head Trail

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 1.5 miles (Round Trip)

Elevation Gain: 200 feet

This short, easy trail takes you along the cliffs of Rosario Head, providing spectacular views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the San Juan Islands, and the famous Deception Pass Bridge. The trail is ideal for a leisurely hike, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some seals or sea otters in the waters below.

Here’s how you can start clearing out the digital chaos:

Clean Up Your Email Inbox

Emails can quickly pile up, especially if you’re subscribed to multiple newsletters or get bombarded with promotions. Here’s how to get it under control:

• Unsubscribe from unnecessary emails: Use tools like Unroll.me to quickly unsubscribe from multiple mailing lists. If you prefer to do it manually, take a few minutes to unsubscribe from newsletters you don’t read anymore.
• Organize your inbox: Create folders or labels for different categories (e.g., work, personal, bills) and start sorting old emails. Archive or delete messages you don’t need.
• Set up filters and folders: Many email providers allow you to create filters so that emails are automatically sorted into folders as they come in. This reduces the clutter and keeps your inbox manageable.

Declutter Your Desktop

Your computer desktop is often the first place to accumulate digital clutter. From random files to messy shortcuts, it can become overwhelming quickly. Here’s how to tidy up:

• Organize your files into folders: Instead of saving documents, photos, and screenshots directly to your desktop, create folders for categories like “Work,” “Personal,” and “Projects.” This will make it easier to find things when you need them.
• Delete or archive old files: Take time to go through your desktop files and remove anything that’s no longer needed. For documents you want to keep but don’t need immediate access to, consider moving them to an external hard drive or cloud storage.
• Clean up your desktop icons: Only keep the essentials on your desktop for easy access. Group similar shortcuts together or remove those you rarely use.

Tidy Up Your Phone

Our phones are often the source of a lot of digital clutter. Between unused apps, outdated photos, and endless notifications, they can easily become a source of stress. Here’s how to clean up:

• Delete unused apps: Go through your apps and uninstall the ones you no longer use. Not only will this free up storage, but it will also reduce distractions.
• Organize your apps: Group similar apps together into folders (e.g., social media, photography, productivity). You can also put your most-used apps on the first screen for easier access.
• Clear out photos and videos: Go through your gallery and delete duplicates or blurry photos. If you have a lot of photos, consider moving them to cloud storage (like Google Photos or iCloud) or an external drive to free up space on your phone.

Unfollow or Unfriend on Social Media

Social media can easily become a source of mental clutter with constant updates, notifications, and overwhelming feeds. Here’s how to declutter your social media accounts:

• Unfollow or mute irrelevant accounts: If your feed is filled with accounts or pages you’re no longer interested in, take a few minutes to unfollow or mute them. This will create a more enjoyable and less overwhelming social media experience.
• Delete old posts: Go through your past posts and delete any that no longer serve you or align with your current interests. This can help you feel more confident about your online presence.
• Organize your groups: If you’re part of many Facebook groups or online communities, consider leaving groups that no longer resonate with you or that you’re not actively participating in.

Digitally Declutter Your Calendar

Your calendar should be a helpful tool, not a source of stress. Here’s how to streamline your digital calendar:

• Review and remove old events: Go through your digital calendar and remove any past events that are no longer relevant.
• Set reminders for important events: Make sure your calendar is being used to its full potential by setting reminders for appointments, deadlines, or events you don’t want to forget.
• Color code your events: Use color coding to organize your calendar by type of event (e.g., work, personal, social), so you can quickly see your schedule at a glance.

Decluttering your digital life is an ongoing process, but the rewards are worth it. A decluttered digital life means less distraction, increased productivity, and a sense of peace. Start small and gradually work your way through each area, and you’ll feel a significant difference in how you interact with your devices.

Time to hit “delete” and take back control of your digital space!

Home trends evolve with buyer demands, technology advancements, and lifestyle shifts. In 2025, homebuyers are seeking properties that offer sustainability, modern convenience, and flexible living spaces. Here’s what’s trending this year.

1. Smart Home Integration

• Buyers are prioritizing homes with smart lighting, thermostats, and security systems.
• Voice-activated and app-controlled features add convenience and energy savings.

2. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

• Solar panels, energy-efficient windows, and sustainable materials are key selling points.
• Buyers are increasingly looking for homes with eco-friendly upgrades that reduce utility costs.

3. Flexible Living Spaces

• Remote work has increased the demand for dedicated home offices and adaptable spaces.
• Open floor plans with multi-functional areas allow for work-life balance.

4. Wellness-Focused Design

• Homebuyers seek spaces that promote health and well-being, such as improved air filtration systems and natural light.
• Outdoor living areas are extremely attractive to buyers allowing for additional space that can be utilized year round.

5. Minimalist and Modern Aesthetics

• Clean lines, neutral palettes, and uncluttered designs remain popular among buyers.
• Features like floating shelves, large windows, and built-in storage maximize space and functionality.

The home of 2025 is smarter, more efficient, and designed to support evolving lifestyles. Whether buying, selling, or upgrading, staying ahead of these trends will help maximize your investment and appeal to modern buyers.

1. Focus on Cash Flow & Appreciation

• Invest in properties with strong rental potential to generate passive income.

• Target high-growth areas where home values are expected to rise.

2. Leverage House Hacking

• Buy a multi-unit property and rent out units to offset your mortgage.

• Rent out rooms in a single-family home to create cash flow.

3. Short-Term vs. Long-Term Rentals

• Explore vacation rentals in tourist-heavy markets.

• Consider long-term rentals in stable, high-demand areas.

With the right strategies, 2025 can be a profitable year for real estate investing. Stay informed, leverage opportunities, and work with professionals who understand the market.

Spring is the perfect time to start a garden. The weather is warming up, the days are getting longer, and there’s something magical about watching new life bloom in your backyard. If you’re a complete beginner, don’t worry! Growing your own spring garden is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple guide to help you get started with no experience required.

1. Choose the Right Location

Before you dive into planting, take a moment to assess your space. A sunny spot is key to growing most plants, especially vegetables and flowers. Aim for a place that gets at least 6-8 hours of sunlight a day. If you’re working with a small space, like a balcony or porch, you can grow in containers or raised beds!

2. Select Easy-to-Grow Plants

As a beginner, it’s best to start with plants that are low-maintenance and forgiving. Here are a few options perfect for spring.

• Vegetables: Lettuce, radishes, spinach, and peas are quick-growing and easy to manage.
• Herbs: Basil, parsley, cilantro, and mint are ideal for beginners. They grow quickly and don’t require much attention.
• Flowers: Sunflowers, zinnias, marigolds, and tulips are beautiful and easy to care for.
• Perennials: Plants like lavender and hostas come back year after year, reducing the need to replant every season.

3. Prepare Your Soil

The key to a successful garden is healthy soil. If you’re starting from scratch, purchase a good-quality potting mix or garden soil. To improve the health of your soil, add compost or organic matter. This will help the soil retain moisture and provide essential nutrients to your plants. Test your soil to determine if it’s acidic or alkaline, and choose plants that will thrive in those conditions.

4. Plant at the Right Time

Timing is crucial in spring gardening. Check the frost dates for your region, as planting too early can expose your plants to frost, while waiting too long might limit your growing season. A simple online search or asking at your local garden center will help you figure out the best planting dates for your area.

5. Water Wisely

Plants need water to thrive, but too much or too little can be detrimental. It’s best to water your garden in the early morning or late afternoon to reduce evaporation. Water the soil, not the leaves, to help prevent diseases. Make sure your plants are getting the right amount of moisture by checking the soil regularly. If it feels dry an inch below the surface, it’s time to water.

6. Weed Regularly

Weeds compete with your plants for nutrients and sunlight, so it’s important to stay on top of them. Pull weeds by hand or use a small garden hoe to keep your garden beds clean. Weeding can be therapeutic, and keeping them in check will give your plants the space they need to grow strong and healthy.

7. Mulch for Moisture and Protection

Mulch is a wonderful tool for any garden, as it helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth. Use organic mulch like wood chips, straw, or grass clippings around your plants. Just be sure to leave a small gap around the base of your plants to prevent rot.

8. Keep an Eye on Pests

While gardening is all about nurturing plants, sometimes pests can sneak in and cause damage. Look out for bugs like aphids, caterpillars, and slugs. Many pests can be controlled naturally with insecticidal soap or by introducing beneficial insects, like ladybugs, into your garden.

9. Harvest Your Plants

The best part of gardening is enjoying the fruits (and veggies) of your labor! Harvest your vegetables when they are ripe—this will encourage your plants to produce even more. Flowers should be cut when they’re fully bloomed to bring inside or share with others.

10. Enjoy the Process!

Gardening isn’t just about the end result—it’s also about enjoying the process. Don’t stress over every detail. Learn from your mistakes, celebrate the little wins, and watch as your garden grows and flourishes. You’ll find that gardening can be incredibly rewarding and relaxing.

Tips for Success:

• Start small: If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with a small garden so you can learn and gain confidence.
• Use raised beds or containers: These are easier to manage than traditional in-ground gardens.
• Be patient: Plants take time to grow. Give them space to thrive and enjoy the process!

Gardening is a fun, fulfilling hobby that anyone can pick up, no matter their level of experience. By choosing the right plants, preparing your soil, and caring for your garden with a little patience, you’ll be on your way to creating a beautiful and thriving spring garden. So get your hands dirty, have fun, and enjoy the beauty of nature right outside your door!

Spring is the perfect time to start a garden. The weather is warming up, the days are getting longer, and there’s something magical about watching new life bloom in your backyard. If you’re a complete beginner, don’t worry! Growing your own spring garden is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple guide to help you get started with no experience required.

1. Choose the Right Location

Before you dive into planting, take a moment to assess your space. A sunny spot is key to growing most plants, especially vegetables and flowers. Aim for a place that gets at least 6-8 hours of sunlight a day. If you’re working with a small space, like a balcony or porch, you can grow in containers or raised beds!

2. Select Easy-to-Grow Plants

As a beginner, it’s best to start with plants that are low-maintenance and forgiving. Here are a few options perfect for spring.

• Vegetables: Lettuce, radishes, spinach, and peas are quick-growing and easy to manage.
• Herbs: Basil, parsley, cilantro, and mint are ideal for beginners. They grow quickly and don’t require much attention.
• Flowers: Sunflowers, zinnias, marigolds, and tulips are beautiful and easy to care for.
• Perennials: Plants like lavender and hostas come back year after year, reducing the need to replant every season.

3. Prepare Your Soil

The key to a successful garden is healthy soil. If you’re starting from scratch, purchase a good-quality potting mix or garden soil. To improve the health of your soil, add compost or organic matter. This will help the soil retain moisture and provide essential nutrients to your plants. Test your soil to determine if it’s acidic or alkaline, and choose plants that will thrive in those conditions.

4. Plant at the Right Time

Timing is crucial in spring gardening. Check the frost dates for your region, as planting too early can expose your plants to frost, while waiting too long might limit your growing season. A simple online search or asking at your local garden center will help you figure out the best planting dates for your area.

5. Water Wisely

Plants need water to thrive, but too much or too little can be detrimental. It’s best to water your garden in the early morning or late afternoon to reduce evaporation. Water the soil, not the leaves, to help prevent diseases. Make sure your plants are getting the right amount of moisture by checking the soil regularly. If it feels dry an inch below the surface, it’s time to water.

6. Weed Regularly

Weeds compete with your plants for nutrients and sunlight, so it’s important to stay on top of them. Pull weeds by hand or use a small garden hoe to keep your garden beds clean. Weeding can be therapeutic, and keeping them in check will give your plants the space they need to grow strong and healthy.

7. Mulch for Moisture and Protection

Mulch is a wonderful tool for any garden, as it helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth. Use organic mulch like wood chips, straw, or grass clippings around your plants. Just be sure to leave a small gap around the base of your plants to prevent rot.

8. Keep an Eye on Pests

While gardening is all about nurturing plants, sometimes pests can sneak in and cause damage. Look out for bugs like aphids, caterpillars, and slugs. Many pests can be controlled naturally with insecticidal soap or by introducing beneficial insects, like ladybugs, into your garden.

9. Harvest Your Plants

The best part of gardening is enjoying the fruits (and veggies) of your labor! Harvest your vegetables when they are ripe—this will encourage your plants to produce even more. Flowers should be cut when they’re fully bloomed to bring inside or share with others.

10. Enjoy the Process!

Gardening isn’t just about the end result—it’s also about enjoying the process. Don’t stress over every detail. Learn from your mistakes, celebrate the little wins, and watch as your garden grows and flourishes. You’ll find that gardening can be incredibly rewarding and relaxing.

Tips for Success:

• Start small: If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with a small garden so you can learn and gain confidence.
• Use raised beds or containers: These are easier to manage than traditional in-ground gardens.
• Be patient: Plants take time to grow. Give them space to thrive and enjoy the process!

Gardening is a fun, fulfilling hobby that anyone can pick up, no matter their level of experience. By choosing the right plants, preparing your soil, and caring for your garden with a little patience, you’ll be on your way to creating a beautiful and thriving spring garden. So get your hands dirty, have fun, and enjoy the beauty of nature right outside your door!

As the population in the Seattle and Pacific Northwest area continues to grow, the demand for housing has surged. Yet, many prospective homebuyers are wondering: where is all the new construction? Despite a strong need for more homes, builders face several challenges that have slowed the pace of construction. In this article, we’ll explore how many new homes were built in surrounding counties in 2023, the hurdles developers are facing, and what this means for the future of housing in the region.

1. How Many New Homes Were Built in 2023?

Data shows that while new construction did occur in 2023, it didn’t keep pace with the increasing demand. Below is a snapshot of the number of new homes built in several key counties in the Seattle metropolitan area and the broader Pacific Northwest.

• King County: The largest county in the Seattle area saw approximately 7,500 new housing units completed in 2023, a slight increase from 2022. However, this is still well below the target needed to address the area’s housing shortage.
• Snohomish County: Around 3,200 new homes were constructed in Snohomish County in 2023, continuing its steady growth as a popular suburban region for those commuting to Seattle.
• Pierce County: In Pierce County, 2,900 new homes were built, a modest increase from 2022, reflecting continued development in suburban areas like Tacoma and Puyallup.
• Kitsap County: On the west side of Puget Sound, 1,100 new homes were completed in 2023. Kitsap remains a smaller but growing market for those seeking more affordable options outside of Seattle.
• Thurston County: Thurston County saw 850 new homes constructed, continuing to attract buyers seeking a quieter, more rural lifestyle while remaining within commuting distance to Olympia or Seattle.
• Clark County (Vancouver area): Vancouver, WA, and its surrounding areas, had approximately 1,500 new homes completed, driven in part by the influx of people moving from Portland and Seattle.

Overall, while over 17,000 new homes were built across the major counties surrounding Seattle, this still falls short of meeting the projected housing demand, which is estimated to require closer to 25,000 new units annually in the greater Seattle area alone.

2. Challenges Builders Are Facing

Despite the strong demand for housing, several factors have made it difficult for builders to keep up with the pace of construction. These challenges include:

a. Rising Construction Costs

One of the biggest hurdles builders face is the rising cost of materials and labor. The price of key materials such as lumber, steel, and concrete has fluctuated significantly in recent years. Labor shortages in the construction industry, exacerbated by the pandemic and an aging workforce, have also driven up wages, making it more expensive to build new homes. In fact, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reported that in 2023, the cost of building a new home had risen by nearly 20% compared to pre-pandemic levels.

b. Limited Availability of Land

In highly urbanized areas like Seattle, one of the most significant challenges is the limited availability of buildable land. Zoning restrictions and land use regulations in many cities have made it difficult to find suitable plots for large-scale development. Even in suburban and rural areas, builders often face challenges in acquiring land due to lengthy permitting processes and competing interests for agricultural or conservation use.

c. Lengthy Permit and Approval Processes

Regulatory barriers also play a key role in slowing down new construction. In the Seattle area, it can take years to secure the necessary permits and approvals for new developments. Environmental impact studies, local government approvals, and community opposition can all delay projects. This has led to a backlog of developments waiting to break ground.

d. Infrastructure and Utilities

As new communities are developed in suburban and rural areas, builders must also contend with the cost and logistics of expanding infrastructure such as roads, water systems, and electrical grids. In some cases, local governments may require developers to contribute to the cost of new infrastructure, further adding to the expense of building homes. Additionally, ensuring that new developments have access to broadband internet—a necessity for modern life—can also be a challenge, particularly in rural areas.

e. Skilled Labor Shortage

The construction industry has been grappling with a skilled labor shortage for several years, a problem that worsened during the pandemic. Many experienced workers have retired, and there hasn’t been enough new talent entering the industry to replace them. According to the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries, there were over 6,000 unfilled construction jobs in the state as of mid-2023. This shortage of labor has slowed down projects and contributed to delays in completing new housing developments.

3. The Impact on Homebuyers

The challenges facing new construction in the Pacific Northwest have a direct impact on homebuyers. With fewer new homes available, prices for existing homes continue to rise as demand outpaces supply. In 2023, the median home price in the Seattle metropolitan area rose by nearly 10%, largely driven by the lack of new inventory.

For buyers seeking newly constructed homes, the options are limited, and competition can be fierce. Many builders have long waiting lists, and some have even started offering homes through a lottery system. Additionally, the rising cost of construction has made new homes more expensive, pricing some buyers out of the market altogether.

4. Looking to the Future

While 2023 has presented significant challenges for homebuilders, there is hope on the horizon. Local governments in the Seattle area and surrounding counties are working to address some of these issues by revisiting zoning laws, streamlining the permitting process, and investing in infrastructure.

There has also been a push toward more innovative building techniques that could help speed up the construction process and reduce costs. Modular homes, for example, are becoming increasingly popular as a way to build homes more efficiently. Prefabricated components can be constructed off-site and assembled quickly, reducing labor costs and construction time.

Additionally, with ongoing conversations about improving access to vocational training and encouraging more young people to enter the trades, the labor shortage could eventually ease, allowing builders to take on more projects.

Conclusion

New construction in the Seattle and Pacific Northwest area is happening, but it’s not keeping pace with the growing demand. Builders are facing a host of challenges, from rising material costs to a shortage of skilled labor and regulatory hurdles. For homebuyers, this means fewer options and higher prices. However, with changes in zoning, more efficient building practices, and future infrastructure investments, there’s hope that the pace of new home construction will pick up in the coming years.

If you’re considering buying a newly built home, it’s important to be prepared for a competitive market and to stay informed about new developments in your desired area. Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can help you navigate the process and find the best options available.

Maximizing your home’s value doesn’t have to break the bank.
As the real estate market evolves, buyers in 2025 are placing a premium on
certain features that align with modern lifestyles, sustainability, and
technology. Here are five cost-effective upgrades that can help your home stand
out and command top dollar.

1. Energy-Efficient Upgrades

Energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword—it’s a
priority for today’s environmentally conscious buyers. Simple upgrades can make
your home more appealing and save future owners money on utility bills.

• Upgrade
  Windows and Insulation: Replacing old windows with energy-efficient
  models and adding proper insulation can improve your home’s energy performance
  and attract buyers seeking lower energy costs.
• Install
  a Smart Thermostat: A relatively inexpensive upgrade, smart
  thermostats like Nest or Ecobee allow homeowners to control heating and
  cooling from their phones, adding convenience and efficiency.

2. Kitchen Modernization

The kitchen remains the heart of the home and a top focusfor buyers. You don’t need a full-scale renovation to make an impact—strategic
updates can go a long way.

• Replace
  Cabinet Hardware and Fixtures: Swapping out outdated handles, knobs,
  and faucets for modern designs instantly refreshes the space.
• Update
  Appliances: Energy-efficient stainless steel appliances are a big draw
  for buyers. Even replacing one or two older appliances can enhance the
  overall appeal.

3. Smart Home Features

Technology continues to play a major role in home-buying
decisions. Incorporating smart features can make your home feel more modern and
practical.

• Smart
  Lighting: Install programmable or voice-controlled lighting systems
  that add convenience and energy savings.
• Security
  Systems: A smart doorbell camera or an integrated home security system
  reassures buyers that the property is safe and secure.

4. Outdoor Enhancements

Curb appeal has always been important, but in 2025, outdoor
living spaces are taking center stage as buyers prioritize relaxation and
functionality.

• Add
  a Patio or Deck: A modestly priced patio or deck extension can
  significantly boost your home’s value by creating additional usable space.
• Improve
  Landscaping: Simple improvements like planting native, low-maintenance
  plants and adding outdoor lighting can make a big impact on first
  impressions.

5. Bathroom Refresh

Bathrooms are another high-value area where small upgrades
can yield significant returns.

• Upgrade
  Fixtures and Lighting: Swap out old faucets, showerheads, and light
  fixtures for modern, stylish options.
• Regrout
  or Replace Tiles: Fresh tiles or regrouting existing ones can give
  bathrooms a clean, updated look without requiring a full remodel.

Bonus Tip: Declutter and Stage

While not a permanent upgrade, decluttering and staging your
home can make a significant difference when it comes time to sell. Highlight
your home’s best features and create a sense of space and functionality that
buyers will love.

Investing in these cost-effective upgrades can make your
home more attractive to buyers and maximize your return when it’s time to sell.
Whether you’re planning to list your property soon or simply want to increase
its value, these improvements align with the priorities of today’s market