FREELAND — For almost a year, the new Windermere Real Estate building has been taking shape on the corner of Freeland Avenue and Highway 525.

Now, it’s time for staff and real estate agents to move into their new digs.

Freeland’s Windermere offices will open for business at the newly constructed office building Oct. 16.

But if you’re in the market for property on South Whidbey this weekend, the move won’t come between you and a new home.

“It’s business as usual until Monday,” said Barbara Mearing, managing broker. “Monday night, we pack up our stuff and we’re back at work Tuesday at the new office.”

The new Windermere Freeland office is located at 5531 Freeland Ave., on the corner of Highway 525. Due to its size and location on a small hill, the large brown building has become a landmark when driving through Freeland.

“It’s quite a project,” Mearing said.

“People have been astonished by the size,” she added.

Some finishing touches and “cosmetics” need to be made before the project is completed. Landscaping still needs to be done.

“We’re anxious to also be a visual benefit to the community,” Mearing said.

Construction and interior design is wrapping up and the new Windermere facility will be ready for use next week.

Windermere has had a presence in Freeland since 1991. Employees are getting ready to relocate from the old facility at 5595 Harbor Ave.

“We’re moving almost 40, that’s including staff and agents,” Mearing said.

And there is room to grow, which is not out of the question as the Whidbey real estate market is still going strong. Some parts of the building won’t be occupied yet, Mearing said.

The move has been greatly anticipated by customers and employees since Windermere first broke ground for construction back in October 2006.

“After much planning and the hard work of so many folks, we are excited to see the building plans come to life,” she said.

The new 7,850-square-foot Craftsman-style facility was designed by architect Rich Lawson and constructed by builder Gary Roth of the Roth Company.

Roth was also the builder of the existing Freeland office building.

Windermere employees plan to hold a grand opening in the near future to celebrate their new home.

Michaela Marx Wheatley can be reached at 221-5300 or mmarxwheatley@southwhidbey

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