Hello and welcome! I'm Lavita Lester-Brinkley, a Realtor with Windermere Central Sound serving buyers and sellers throughout Lakewood, Tacoma and surrounding Pierce County communities.

Pierce County has always been home for me. I'm a Tacoma native, attended the University of Washington Tacoma, and have called Lakewood home since 2004. That local connection is an important part of how I approach real estate. I don't just help people buy and sell houses here—I know these communities because I live, work and spend my time in them.

Through 253 Sound Living, I share real estate information, neighborhood insights and local resources to help people make informed decisions about buying, selling and living in the South Sound.

When I'm not working with clients, you might find me tending my garden, walking at Fort Steilacoom Park, spending time at Point Ruston or grabbing a bite at one of my favorite local taquerias. I love the mix of neighborhoods, people and experiences that make this part of Washington feel like home.

Before becoming a Realtor, I spent more than a decade in financial services, including serving as a branch manager for a national bank. That experience gave me a strong foundation in communication, problem-solving and helping people navigate important financial decisions—skills I now bring to every real estate transaction.

Today, much of my work focuses on first-time homebuyers, military families and those relocating to or from JBLM, buyers exploring VA or Washington State down payment assistance options including the Covenant Homeownership Program, and homeowners preparing to sell. I also teach Washington State Housing Finance Commission homebuyer education classes, helping future homeowners better understand the buying process and prepare for homeownership.

My approach is education-first. I want my clients to understand their options, feel comfortable asking questions and have the information they need to make decisions that are right for them. Whether you're buying your first home, relocating to the South Sound, preparing to sell or simply trying to figure out what your next move should be, my goal is to provide knowledgeable local guidance from our first conversation through closing—and beyond.

Moving Forward Together