Who we are

We believe the earth is beautifully abundant and that if used wisely there are sufficient resources for all to live well. We imagine a built world based on an ecological model where nothing is exploited or wasted and where each element serves a purpose that is complimentary to the whole.

Valerie Steel and Mary Ehrlich met in Everett while working together with our neighborhood association to improve the quality of life in our community. We are founding members of the Everett Shorelines Coalition which was formed to protect, restore and enhance the shorelines of the Greater Everett Area. We are frequently seen on the Lowell River Road as part of the Adopt-A-Street program, or pulling invasive species from Jetty Island and Forgotten Creek. We are also charter members of Historic Everett which identifies structures of historic significance and works for their preservation and restoration. Both groups achieve success through active stewardship, advocacy and education. We've been known to be slightly mischievous.

Valerie and Mary are co-owners of Greening Properties which is the natural evolution our of grassroots work.

Valerie Steel - Broker. Valerie began in real estate San Francisco in 1979 and devoted much of her career to R & D and property management related to adaptive re-use of antiquated industrial space as artist live/work studios. She has been licensed in Washington since 1994 and has successfully negotiated and closed hundreds of real estate transactions for satisfied clients throughout Puget Sound. She had the honor of serving on the Council of Neighborhoods for many years. She replaced the lawn at her 1920's craftsman bungalow with mostly native vegetation and walks 3 blocks from home to the office. Valerie agrees with Buckminster Fuller: we seem to be verbs.

Mary Ehrlich - Sales Associate. Mary has a professional career in health care as a registered nurse. She has assisted many families through significant transitions. She was co-owner with her husband Paul of Harbor Hill Inn, a bed and breakfast in the Blackman House on Everett's Historic Register. She has prior experience in real estate and residential lending. She and Paul have downsized their living to an 1100 sf condo, have one car, use public transportation, Flex Car and walk to arrive at their destinations. She cultivates a P-Patch in Belltown. Mary believes each of us can alter our lifestyles in small ways that result in big changes for a healthier world.

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