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Julie Szmania's Full Profile
| About My VR Property or VR-Related Business |
| During Spring Vacation 2006 we discovered the perfect retreat for our family. It was a 100-year-old Historic farmhouse built by the original pioneers who settled in Wenatchee Valley, WA. It had been in the Brender family over 4 generations, well loved, beautifully cared for and intensely peaceful. The original homestead was 160 acres split between 4 sons, and we purchased the last 20-acre parcel still in the family with the handsome 3 story home. After totally restoring and renovating 90% of the house (a '60's kitschy county kitchen remains), it has become a labor of love which we want to share with other families who would appreciate its beauty. As our business keeps us away about 9 months out of the year, we thought it was so sad to see it empty during so many gorgeous seasons. So we cautiously decided to try it as a vacation rental only late last year. So far we have been very happy with our decision and our many guests have completely enjoyed the uniqueness of this property along with the charm of the farm, complete with vineyard, flower gardens and 5 chickens. My husband built the dining room table from beams out of the attic and it permanently seats up to 18 for dinner. It's a fantastic place to dine and congregate. |
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| Words of Wisdom for VR Owners |
| Trust your instincts. Don't be afraid to share your most beautiful art, breakables, or personal possessions. We keep the house FULLY stocked with everything from spices, condiments, coffee, chocolate, canned goods, baking supplies, laundry soaps, sports equipment, cords of wood, etc. etc. All kitchen supplies are replaced by tenants if used up, and many add to the stash before they leave. We are generous with what we give them as if our own family was going to stay there. Plus we love dogs, so allow people to bring their 4-legged family members. Show them the love! |
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| Other Passions, Interests, and Pursuits |
| We have owned and operated a fine-dining restaurant in Seattle for the last 20 years. My husband is a clasically trained European Chef from Germany whose passion includes great wines and fresh farm-grown vegetables. This farm in Brender Canyon looks similar to his small hometown in Germany where people lived with their cows and off the land. We have three sons, two of them are now in college, so it's a retreat for all ages and all friends. |
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