The Real Estate Book of Skagit, Island, San Juan, and including Snohomish Counties

Page 32

HOME & LIFESTYLE GUIDE SKAGIT, ISLAND & SAN JUAN COUNTIES, WA INCLUDING SNOHOMISH COUNTY Volume 45, Issue 2 PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID BLAINE, WA PERMIT NO. 106 ECRWSS Postal Customer RealEstateBook.com To Advertise, Call Sharman @ 360-333-9566 LUXURY COASTAL LIFESTYLE BECKONS Stunning Sunsets! KELLI LANG 360-929-2217 RE/MAX Gateway Special Issue NORTH PUGET SOUND ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS ® “AWARD OF EXCELLENCE” WINNERS

Shana Hoople

GRANITE FALLS - Cute 1 story home in small community. 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths & fully fenced. Offered As-Is. Just Listed! | $395,000

GRANITE FALLS - Turn key spa & salon in the heart of town. Rent stations or run it all yourself! Styling stations, nail stations, pedicure chairs, hair sink, spa bed, private restroom, break room, & reception. Equipment incl. #2023545 | $525,000

GRANITE FALLS - 2 lots on 0.76 acres! 74' of private riverfront. 1 bedroom park model with tons of storage, loft and expansive deck. Finished storage shed with power, flooring & loft. RV parking. Updated 3BD septic. #2020503 | $425,000

PUYALLUP - 3BD 1.75BA 1442sf Rambler on 1.74 acres. Island kitchen w/ downdraft cooktop & custom pantry. Sunken living room, formal dining, & family room. 500+sf garage. Decks front & rear. ZONED 4-6 lots per acre. #2022640 | $529,950

EVERETT - 3BD 2BA 2269sf Mid-century w/ hardwood floors, large windows, fireplace upstairs & down, large utility room, formal dining room, and kitchen with eating space. Private manicured yard for privacy. #1996618 | $698,000

GRANITE FALLS - 5 acres close to some of the most breathtaking hiking & fishing in the Pacific NW! Near schools, shopping, restaurants & library. PUD water available in street. Septic permit needs to be updated. #2001063 | $199,999

Cheryl MunnOwner/Designated Broker 425-422-6608 www.propertiesbycheryl.com
www.premierhomes.today
Owner/Broker 425-422-3949
Commercial

ANACORTES

IN-TOWN W/ COUNTRY FEEL

4BD 2 BA 2942sf home on 1/2 acre of manicured grounds. 2 car garage + large outbuilding for garden and storage. Solid wood floors throughout w/ rustic stone cozy fireplace. Plumbed for additional full bath on 2nd floor. Large primary bedroom w/walk-in closet. Gas heat & Heat pump. Newer stainless appliances.

#2025730 | $1,050,000

This office is independently owned and operated. Bert Clay Direct: 360.202.5430 bertclay@johnlscott.com bertclay.johnlscott.com Christine
Mathes Cell: 360.770.4895 christinem@johnlscott.com christinem.johnlscott.com
REAL ESTATE

SULTAN

Master Certified Negotiation Expert Military Relocation Professional

425-422-7243

www.snohomishcountyhomesinc.com

IMMACULATE IN SILVER LAKE

3BD 2.5BA 2252sf two-story w/ open floor plan. Chef sized kitchen w/ massive 7x7 island, SS appliances including a gas stove, and double pantry! Large loft with endless potential. Fully fenced backyard with extended patio. All located at the end of a cul de sac across from the community park. Close to everything! #2026276 | $1,010,000

BEAUTIFUL OASIS

7.55 acres vacant land to build your perfect home within shouting distance of downtown Sultan. Paved street w/ gas available, power and city water in the street. Zoned R-5 with possible additional buildable lots. Field has been newly mowed and trails cut for easy access. Build and enjoy fast growing Sultan. Hiking, skiing, boating and shopping nearby.

#1974447 | $295,000

BRAND NEW TOWNHOME

Less than $263sf! 4BD 3BA 1872sf attached townhome w/ oversize 2 car garage. Front & back decks for entertaining. Security features include a built-in sprinkler system, Ring doorbell & keyless entry for peace of mind. Kitchen w/ soft close cabinets & gorgeous 3cm thick Quartz counters. You'll appreciate the modern features like ductless heat pump w/remote, and easy laminate vinyl plank floors. #2031415 | $492,000

ELITE
EVERETT STANWOOD

SPARKLING 180° WATER VIEWS

4930 Heather Dr | $775,000

Skyline 2BD 1.75BA 1680sf w/ views of Burrows Bay, San Juan Islands & Olympics! Magnificent sunsets over the bay! Main level features an updated kitchen with granite & marble counters, newer stainless appliances, sink & faucet. Living room with vaulted ceilings + wall of windows. Newer vinyl windows, new laminate flooring on the main level, & new deck. New roof installed in 2017. Lower level family/bonus room. Skyline amenities include waterfront park, playground

OAKHARBOR MOUNTVERNON

1860 Ketch Pl | $535,000

2BD 2.5BA 1783sf w/ den/office+ huge Bonus room! Chef's kitchen with stainless appliances, 2 pantries & bar seating. AC with mini split ductless heat pump! Large backyard.

BEAUTIFUL & MODERN

1248 Rickover Dr | $525,000

Built in 2021! 2+BD 2.5BA 1789sf w/ soaring ceilings, light filled great room, fantastic chef's kitchen. LVP flooring on main level. Den w/ closet + media room. A/C mini split. Community outdoor heated pool & private beach.

PENDING

409 Jeff St | $549,900

4BD 2.5BA 2249sf in Digby Heights. Covered front porch, grand entry, formal dining area, & gourmet kitchen. Maple hardwood floors, full wood wrapped windows & maple cabinets.

537 NE Ellis Way | $260,000

COUPEVILLE ANACORTES Michelle Foggin 360-333-1549 michellefoggin@remax.net www.michellefogginrealesatate.com GATEWAY
PENDING
PENDING
2BD 2BA 876sf ground floor unit. New LVP flooring & new carpeting! Covered back deck overlooks green space. All appliances included! HOA covers water, sewer, garbage. OAKHARBOR

$1,165,000

Arlington - 4BD 3.5BA 4133sf on 6.28 acres w/ heated shop. Floor to ceiling windows & stone fireplace. Main floor suite. Office/den. Wine cellar. Greenhouse. R1022

$660,000

Hat Island - 2BD 2BA 1568sf close to the marina! Kitchen w/quartz counters & passthrough to the east sunroom. Deck w/amazing views! Private patio w/fountain. R1021

$869,000

Hat Island - Custom 2+BD 2BA 2034sf cedar home w/ wrap around covered porch on private island! Stunning gourmet kitchen. Luxurious bath w/ heated floors. R1016

$200,000

Lake Cavanaugh - Building lot for your dream house or cabin in the woods. Nearly 1/3 acre w/ well depth est @ 60 feet. Soil has been perked. Come live a little! R950

410 Olympic Ave, Arlington, WA 98223 (360) 454-0629

$395,000

Everett - 2BD 2BA 1095sf end-unit condo. Kitchen has granite counter tops & cherry cabinets. Corner gas fireplace. Laminate wood flooring throughout. R1025

1,149,950

Lake Stevens - Custom 4BD 3BA 3516sf on shy 1 acre. Grand staircase & vaulted ceilings, chef's kitchen w/ granite, 4 car/RV bay garage, & covered patio. R1009

$250,000

Lake Cavanaugh - Fabulous shy acre building lot w/ towering evergreens & privacy. View of lake on the sunny side, sloping gently to the SW. No HOAs. R985

$165,000

Lake Stevens - Newly rezoned shy 1/4 acre lot w/ power and water in the street. Close to the lake, new Costco, shopping, and more! Fast access to Hwy-9. R1024

www.hallmarkhomesnw.com

BRIGHT & LIGHT CHARMER NEAR OLD TOWN

3BD 1BA 1194sf home near Skagit River Park, Maiben Park, and Rotary Park. 2 main-level bedrooms & bath + upper level bonus room. Oversized windows throughout ensure natural brightness everywhere you turn! There is plenty of room to grow with an additional flex-space upstairs; could be used as a primary bedroom suite, home office, gym space or guest room. Large backyard with outdoor fire pit and old growth native trees. Quiet dead-end street with ample parking. The possibilites are endless with this adorable Burlington home.

#2026452 | $410,000

360-630-9692 laura@laurabird.net
www.laurabird.net
2022 Award Of Excellence Winner 2022 Award Of Excellence Winner BURLINGTON

(425) 343-5225

Natalee@WashingtonHomeSold.com www.WashingtonHomeSold.com

on 0.57 acre lot. Mountain & terriitorial views. Den/office and Primary suite on main floor. Great room living w/ formal dining & large bonus room with views. High-end finishes and sellers' designer touches. Covered front porch and covered back patio. 3 car garage + RV parking. 10 mins to I-5 & new Amazon facility.

Eagle Springs

GUARANTEED CAMPING SPOT Kittitas County is a playground for outdoor FUN! Bring the RV and enjoy what the area has to offer. Water & power to site. Close to 3 great golf courses, fishing/floating on the Yakima River, hiking, mountain biking, snowmobiling, skiing, ORV's and dirt biking. Community Beach access. Make this your getaway destination for years of great memories. No HOA dues!

SEATTLE
#1999008
CLE
TOWNHOME 2BD 1.5BA 900sf just blocks to great restaurants, gyms, shopping, breweries & buses. Open living w/ vaulted ceilings & fireplace on upper level. Full laundry on the bedroom level. Partial views of the Olympics and great natural light. Oversized 1 car garage with room for storage. Shared fully fenced side yard. No HOA dues!
/ GREENWOOD
| $599,950
ELUM #1972513 | $65,000
ARLINGTON #2022701
| $925,000
MODERN FARMHOUSE 4BD 2.5BA 2835sf

Luxury Coastal LIfestyle Beckons!

MLS:2028752 | $1,675,000

Imagine the stunning sunsets, watching the ferries set sail or long walks along the beach or Guemes Channel Trail. Nantucket PNW style is this gorgeous neighborhood's theme with wonderful amenities - beach access, lovelylandscaped walking paths, amphitheater, pickle ball court & covered picnic areas. Enjoy amazing water & island views from your deck & almost every room in the home. Open concept great room, dining & kitchen are perfect for entertaining w/ engineered hardwood flooring, granite countertops, breakfast bar, gas fireplace & crown molding finish. Lower level has a rec room w/built in bunk beds & covered deck access plus 2 bedrooms, a bath w/deep jetted tub & walk in tiled shower. Bonus large storage room makes a great wine cellar!

Kelli Lang

360-929-2217

team@kellilang.com

kellilangrealestate.com

ON THE COVER
GATEWAY
2021 Gold AWARD OF EXCELLENCE WINNERS North Puget Sound Association of Realtors Anacortes $195,000 FOR SALE OakHarbor $455,000 SOLD SOLD Anacortes $805,000 SOLD OakHarbor $529,000 PENDING Anacortes $1,795,000 PENDING OakHarbor $450,000 SOLD PortOrchard $595,000 SOLD Anacortes $795,000 SOLD Anacortes $855,000 SOLD OakHarbor $69,900 FOR SALE OakHarbor $370,000 SOLD Anacortes $485,000 SOLD Bellingham $750,000 SOLD Ferndale $825,000 SOLD Anacortes $745,000
Work with the BEST local real estate team serving Skagit, Island, and San Juan Counties. Leah Courage Realtor®, Team Leader (360) 317-8888 Jon Russell Realtor®, Team Manager (360) 395-8535 www.CourageGroupRealty.com THE EPITOME OF LUXURY Spectacular sweeping Puget Sound water views! 3BD 2.5BA 3000sf penthouse condominium, moments from downtown Anacortes. Enjoy evenings with front-row sunset viewing. Anacortes $1,650,000

OAK HARBOR Steps to the beach & Windjammer Park! 2BD 2BA 1192sf w/ spacious balcony to enjoy the views. Open living room, dining & kitchen with tons of natural light. Gated entry, convenient shared garage & easy access elevator are great perks! #2002364 | $332,500

COMMERCIAL

OAK HARBOR Business opportunity! SR 20 highway exposure, 32 parking spaces, and 2 level building Zoned C-3. Main level includes large commercial kitchen, guest dining & a private patio for outdoor enjoyment. Upper level bar w/ view of Oak Harbor. #1868372 | SOLD!

OAK HARBOR 3BD 2.5BA 2716sf on oversize 0.56± acre lot. Fresh paint/wainscoting & a cozy wood fireplace. Kitchen w/ eating space, and french doors to deck. Detached shop with an adjoining hobby room, chicken coop, fruit trees & outbuildings. #1987303 | $588,000

Upgraded 2BD 2B A 1491sf one-level home! Gracious foyer overlooking atrium, vaulted gathering room with Shaw San Marco wood flooring, cozy gas fireplace and French doors to private patio. Formal dining & designer kitchen. 2 car garage. #2028164 | $429,900

COUPEVILLE Whidbey Island Westside bluff waterfront with panoramic water views from snowcapped Olympic Mountains to the lights of Victoria and beyond to the San Juan Islands. 5 Acre plus parcel is the perfect palette for you to create your estate home. #1973487 | $1,200,000

OAK HARBOR One-level 4BD 2BA 1860sf on partially wooded 1/3 acre. Main home w/ country style kitchen, dining area, and spacious great room w/ woodstove. Apartment w/ separate entry, full kitchen & 3/4 bath. Utility room. Storage sheds. #2003960 | SOLD!

Acorn Properties, Inc. 360.679.4585 • www.AcornProp.net 32800 SR 20 Suite 1, Oak Harbor, WA 98277 WHIDBEY ISLAND SPECIALISTS Chas
360.640.9506 Terri
360.632.4895 Sheila
360.929.7226 Wayne
360.929.0226 Kathi
360.929.0206 Jim
360.672.8603 Erin
360.632.5827 Nina
425.984.4277 Kris
360.632.6849
Webster
Neilon
Davies
Locke
Phillips
Neilon
Neilon
Nicole Neilon
Gomes EAGLE CREST OAK HARBOR WATERSIDE CONDO MAIN HOME + APT VIEW ACREAGE HALF ACRE LOT
SOLD! SOLD! NEW LISTING!

360-468-3344

182 Lopez Rd, Lopez Island, WA 98261

GET YOUR ISLAND START

South end 0.82 acre forested parcel nestled in the Pavey Blvd neighborhood. Minutes to the Southend General Store and Cafe; near Mud Dock Bay county park & beaches. No CCRs. 2BD septic design permit approved. Electricity in street. On waitlist to get well drilled. #1994471 | $99,000

MARINER HILL VIEW ACREAGE

A partially wooded 1.7 acre lot with western marine views. Lot is ready for your building ideas. Includes community water, power and phone in the road. Be part of a great neighborhood, not too far from the Village on the sunny west side of Lopez. #1954230 | $297,500

BRING YOUR PLANS!

Marine view 1.8 acre lot. High on the hill overlooking San Juan Channel and beyond. Several possible building sites. Community water, power, phone @ road. Watch the ever changing sunsets! Mature woods. Close to nature and not far from the marinas and Village. #1954259 | $325,000

COMFORTABLE ISLAND LIVING

2BD 2.5BA 1850sf w/ bonus room + den & detached garage. Westerly views across Flat Point Lake & Upright Channel. Private community sandy beach w/ 255 feet of frontage. Watch the ferries cruise by and take in gorgeous sunsets from the expansive front deck. #1987060 | $844,000

ABOVE FISHERMAN BAY

2BD 2.5BA 2394sf view home w/ office & 3-car garage. Great room with vaulted wood ceiling, Thelin wood stove, Brazilian maple floors & well-appointed kitchen with oversize granite island & Garland propane range. Wrap around, covered deck. Close to beach parks. #1984377 | $969,000

ROWBOAT COVE

Beach cabin only steps from sandy beaches w/ territorial & marine views south over Davis Bay! Complete kitchen + bedroom with south facing balcony + large extra finished room. Convenient mid-island location to easily enjoy all your favorite Lopez places. #1980761 | $990,000

Windermere Lopez Island
| www.wrelopez.com

NORTH HOMES REALTY, INC www.century21northhomes.com

730 S BURLINGTON BLVD, BURLINGTON

877-319-7625

CONCRETE Cabin in a private, gated community! 392sf w/ kitchen & vinyl floors throughout 2022 Park Model ready for your enjoyment in Lake Tyee!. #2021996 | $95,000

MOUNT VERNON Fantastic Multi-Plex! 2 units @ 3BD 1BA, 1 unit @ 2 BA 1BA. Well maintained & consistently rented. Plenty of parking. No lawn maintenance. #2006560 | $580,000

needed to build. Tiny home and shed do not convey. Approx 1 acre of building space. #2022502 | $150,000

MARBLEMOUNT Up-river and off-grid living! Across the road from the river w/ RV parking & fire pit. Gated community of the Cascade River Park. #2030190 | $149,000

CONCRETE 5.08 acres tucked in the forest, with a creek at the back of the lot. just minutes away from fishing, hiking, and outdoor activities. Bring your builder! #2023681 | $128,000

MOUNT

2222sf on 0.31 acre lot. Raised garden beds and mature fruit trees. Lower level Rec room. Near shopping, recreation, & College. #2023852 | $569,900

MARBLEMOUNT Riverfront lot in gated Cascade River Park. 2004 travel trailer, storage shed and fire pit. Septic in place. Hiking trails, lakes, mountains! #2024955 | $110,000

Call Your T E A M Of the Century for any home in this magazine! Use your “SmartPhone” to TEXT for more pictures & info! Sharon Stokes 360.661.6164 sharon@ sharonstokes.com Christina O'Keefe 425.231.2651 christinahomesalesc21@ gmail.com YAKIMA Watch the clouds dance on the ground while enjoying the mountain range kissing the sky, you can build your dream home here on Magpie. Nearly 10 acres. #1902648 $42,900 ANACORTES 4BD 3.5BA 3142sf backed by forest land. Beautiful craftsman woodwork, warm gas fireplace, gorgeous wood BURLINGTON HILL 1+ acre w/ amazing views. Water, Electric, sewer, gas available at street. Possible seller financing. Just minutes from I-5. #1934095 | $125,000 SEDRO WOOLLEY Affordable living for 55+ Community! Updates throughout w/ brand new walk-in shower & new ceramic tile throughout the bathroom and shower! #2020610 | $80,000 SEDRO WOOLLEY Riverfront retreat! 2BD 1BA 928sf overlooking Skagit River. Main home + A-frame cabin w/ loft + garage & workshop. Full time or investment! #2014810 | $515,000 SEDRO WOOLLEY Level 5.5 acres w/ power to site. Well & septic
VERNON 5BD 3BA

360.961.7795 anita.kohl3@ gmail.com

360.739.4335 nora@ noramazonson.com

YAKIMA 10+ acres nestled among golden rolling hills. You will love the seclusion and privacy. Ready for your creativity. Bring your dreams & plans!

#1902642 | $39,900

SULTAN 20 acres of premium land. Mostly level lot w/ marketable timber. 1+ acre cleared w/ 20x30 shop, greenhouse, & outbuildings. Well and Septic needed.

#2014840 | $750,000

DARRINGTON

side of

acres. Floor to ceiling rock fireplace. 2 car garage. Spring-fed ond. #1984169 | $499,000

EDMONDS Build here! Bring your plans to 0.57 acres w/ potential peek-a-boo views. Quiet neighborhood close to shopping, restaurants, & Haines Wharf park. #1955652 | $375,000

STANWOOD

on 1.11 acres. Breathtaking sunsets and island & water views. Main suite w/ jetted tub & heated floors.

| $759,900

COMMERCIAL - FOR LEASE

CONCRETE 5.37 acres w/ unobstructed views of Sauk mountain! Partially treed and ready for your vision. Just minutes to the beautiful Skagit River & state parks. #2023679 | $128,000

BURLINGTON

1.5BA 614sf 1-level condo in The Cedars, a 55+ community. Updated flooring, walk-in shower and newer hot water heater. Covered porch. #2026935 | $299,000

MOUNT

0.45 acre building lot. Enjoy the multiple trails and amazing privacy. Floor plans and permits approved and paid for!

| $225,000

CONCRETE Mostly flat to gently sloped 2.38 acres w/ several potential building sites. Water rights secured and recorded for future well. Electricity at road #1870401 | $128,900

MOUNT

perfect business location in the heart of town. Heavy traffic area w/ North & South bound I-5 ramps at your doorstep. Office, retail, and more!

| $6,000/month

MOUNT VERNON

in Little Mountain Estates 55+ park. Great for entertaining! Large dining room, kitchen w/ 2 ovens. Zero yard work! #1996670 | $270,000

SEDRO

in Carriage Estates, 55+ park. Open floor plan, large living room, kitchen w/ breakfast nook, den/office with double doors. #2021959 | $175,000

Anita Kohl
This is why you move to America’s #1 Cities and work with the #1 team!
Nora Mazonson Warm Beach 4BD 2.5BA 2231sf #2026683 2BD VERNON The #2026935 VERNON Nookachampo Hiils #2028749 3BD 2.75BA 3456sf w/ mountain views & creek along east 1.83 3BD 2BA 1716sf WOOLLEY 2BD 2BA 1482sf

PREPARE YOUR HOUSE NOW TO SELL IN SPRING

Spring is a popular time for selling homes, as buyers are eager to move in before the start of the summer. To make your home stand out in the market, here are some tips to get it ready for sale:

y Curb appeal: First impressions are crucial, so focus on improving the exterior of your home. Clean up the yard, plant flowers, and fix any broken or damaged items.

y Clean and declutter: Clean your home thoroughly, including windows, carpets, and upholstery. Declutter by removing personal items, knick-knacks, and excess furniture to make your home look spacious and open.

y Paint: Fresh paint can give your home a new look and make it feel more inviting. Choose neutral colors that will appeal to a wide range of buyers.

y Lighting: Make sure your home is welllit, both inside and outside. Replace any burned-out light bulbs and consider adding extra lighting in dark areas.

y Repairs: Make any necessary repairs, such as fixing leaky faucets, repairing holes in walls, and fixing squeaky doors.

y Staging: Consider staging your home to help potential buyers visualize how the space could be used. This can be as simple as rearranging furniture or as elaborate as hiring a professional staging company.

y Price: Set a competitive price for your home based on recent sales of similar properties in the area.

By following these tips, you can get your house ready to sell in the spring and attract potential buyers. Good luck with your sale!

ARE THESE DEAL BREAKERS?

HOME INSPECTIONS:

After making an offer on a home, you'll enter a contract, part of which should always include getting a home inspection from a licensed professional. It is recommended that any homebuyer make an offer to purchase contingent upon a home inspection that allows you to withdraw your offer if there are any major issues discovered during an inspection.

More than likely, the home inspector will find problems that need to be fixed before closing. Major foundation issues and significant water damage are at the top of the list of signs to walk away from.

On the other hand, there are some home defects found during an inspection that don't have to be dealbreakers. Many of them can be fixed, and they can be used to negotiate with the seller for a lower price point or additional help with the closing costs.

LEAD-BASED PAINT

Lead-based paint was banned in 1978, but it's still possible that you could purchase a home that contains it if it was built before the ban. The sellers should disclose this, but the home inspector may find it, as well. It doesn't have to be a deal-breaker: you can hire a contractor who is certified to remove lead-based paint, and the home will be completely safe.

CONCRETE FLOOR CRACKS

Cracks in a concrete basement floor may seem like a structural problem, but this is natural and not indicative of significant damage. Small cracks occur in concrete because it's a porous substance. These cracks can be fixed at a relatively low cost and shouldn't be a reason for you to back out of a contract. Cracks in concrete walls, however, should give pause for concern.

MOLD

Mold is something that no one ever wants to see in a home you put an offer on, but a little bit of mold by the shower doesn't mean you need to back out of your offer— at least not immediately. If mold is found during the home inspection, have a qualified mold inspector look at it to determine if it is a deal breaker.

When problems arise during home inspections, it doesn't always mean you have to back out of your contract. Home inspectors will often find problems outside of their scope of expertise, so always get a second opinion from a specialist before making a final decision. In many instances, these problems are opportunities to negotiate with the seller. You can request that the seller do the repairs or ask for money to put towards repairs. Either way, hiring a licensed home inspector will put your mind at ease and help you make your final decision on a home.

HOW TO

GO FROM RENTER TO HOMEOWNER

You’ve been saving for a while, and you’re finally ready to move out of your apartment and take the leap to home ownership. Becoming a first-time homeowner is both an exciting and a stressful process, but the payoff is well worth it once all the papers are signed and the keys are in your hands. Be sure to read on for some useful tips for preparing for home ownership and what to expect once you move in.

Chances are, you’ve been renting from a landlord who was on the hook for minor repairs and major upgrades, not to mention yardwork and a lot of other upkeep. Now, all those tasks fall on you.

Set Some Money Aside

A good rule of thumb is to set aside one percent of your home’s purchase price per year for maintenance. So, if for example, your home cost $300,000, you should put aside $3,000, or about $250 a month, for home repairs. If you’re buying a new construction home, you shouldn’t have major repairs right away and you’ll likely have a new home warranty covering any maintenance costs. By saving this money now, particularly if you’re moving into an existing home, you won’t have any surprises if a hot water heater breaks or if you need a new roof down the line.

Inspect Before You Buy

A proper inspection of your new home will alert you to problems that already exist. There shouldn’t be any issues in a new construction home, and, if anything, only minimal issues in an existing home, but an inspection can ensure that everything is installed properly or that you can negotiate with the seller for any minor repairs to be incorporated into the purchase price.

Stay on Top of Maintenance

This doesn’t just mean keeping up with yard work and cleaning, even though they’re important. You’ll want to do an annual survey of your major appliances and know what they look like when working properly. Keep your eye on the roof or visible pipes as well –

catching a problem early is key to preventing expensive repairs. Keep the name of trusted plumbers, HVAC repairmen, and electricians just in case.

Get a Hold of Your Finances

Finally, another major difference between renting and owning is the status of your finances. The first year you own a home, your taxes will become much more complex – so this might be the year you turn to a tax professional (if you don’t already do so). Second, start to budget. Chances are, you’re going to need to fill up your additional square footage with new furniture or electronics. Other things like lawn mowers, grills, and other seasonal products will be needed too, so make sure to comparison shop at the right time for a great deal.

PERSONAL FINANCE RESOLUTIONS FOR HOMEBUYERS

REAL ESTATE MATTTERS

If you need a little help getting your own financial train back on

Only you can design goals and rewards that meet your financial, emotional and psychological needs. But researchers say our intuitive need for achievement and self-esteem could be the reason setting specific, challenging financial goals helps us get over the finish line.

PAY DOWN YOUR DEBT.

The basic plan typically plumbing and heating with many appliances. items from the list sure that you buy However, most home add coverage for Some warranties of a specific period and you pay for days later, you won't same problem.

With interest rates rising, carrying debt just got a lot more expensive. So, do yourself a favor and pay off your debt as quickly as possible.

Start with either the highest interest debt first or the smallest debt (which you can pay off quickly and then apply that amount toward the next smallest debt). Every dollar you prepay will effectively earn you that amount of interest, so consider each debt paid off a big win.

BUILD UP YOUR CREDIT HISTORY AND RAISE YOUR CREDIT SCORE.

Credit is the driver behind life's financial milestones. If you have good credit, you'll pay less to get what

So, pull a copy of your credit report from each of the three credit reporting bureaus, Equifax, Experian and Transunion. Look for errors and the reason why your score isn't higher. If you sign up on each bureau's website, you'll have access to tools and information that will help you better understand your credit and what you can do to improve it.

For example, if may include additional freezers, pools and appliances and home specific costs for plan. You may also platinum, gold or Be sure to read the specifically under Keep in mind year and you'll pay plan. But the home working order on agreed to). They broken) at closing. machine is on its buy a home warranty machine the week Interestingly, for plans now cover locks. With this rekey home will have new warranty from day

Before you whip reviews about these them online, check long they have been that do business minimum, their should be current. pay close attention a pattern indicating

LEARN SOMETHING NEW ABOUT MONEY THIS YEAR.

If you're looking your favorite internet warranty companies." comparisons of

PsycNet shows that if you set specific and challenging goals, you'll achieve higher performance than if you set easy goals, "do your best" goals, or no goals at all. If you apply Goal Setting Theory to your finances, you'll save more money if you target a specific number that feels just out of reach.

The trick is to set challenging goals, but design a system of rewards that makes you feel great when you've achieved them. For example, if you save $2,500, you can spend a portion of that to attend your best friend's destination wedding.

Last year, we challenged you to learn something new about money, and suggested NFTs and cryptocurrency. This year may well be remembered as the year crypto cratered, with four trading platforms declaring bankruptcy, including the iconic FTX, and Bitcoin trading at a more than 50% discount from its high.

©2021

That doesn't mean you shouldn't learn something new this year. How about starting with the Secure 2.0 Act? It was included in the year-end spending bill, making it easier for many Americans to achieve our first financial resolution: saving more money.

We hope your closing goes well!

©2023 Ilyce R. Glink And Samuel J. Tamkin. Distributed By Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Home warranties replacement of a
home warranty?
Ilyce R. Glink and
RealEstateMatters_Template.indd 1

THE PROS AND CONS OF BOLD COLORS

the home three years before, and Dr. Larsen and his wife trusted me. Little did they know, I had no clue how to build the three simple walls needed for the small new bathroom.

DIo you want to build a new wall inside your home? Perhaps you're trying to create a new small space for a home office or hobby room, or maybe you have a bigger appetite and are transforming a dank basement into a finished living space. But you have no idea where to start. I've been there. I've experienced your anxiety.

've had the distinct pleasure of attending numerous editors' conferences over the years sponsored by different manufacturers. I've toured plants that heat-treat hand tools and factories that make everything from saw blades to small engines, to name a few. Each experience is like Christmas morning to me because I got to see new tools and products of my trade.

One of the most fascinating tours was of a paint factory on the West Coast. We got to see the early stages of making a batch of interior paint. I believe the size of the vat was at least 5,000 gallons, but it could have been as much as 10,000 gallons. You need a massive metal stirring paddle to blend all the ingredients. Forget about using a wood stick!

Every now and then it's interesting to go back in time. I clearly remember having to build my firstpartition wall insidea house. I was a soaking wet-behind-theears carpenter working for a small remodeling company. One of my college professors, Dr. Larsen, had asked me to install a half bathroom in his home. I had no idea what to do, so I told him that my boss could do the job.

The most interesting part of the tour for me was the session spent with the on-staff color expert. She explained all the nuances of color, how the slightest shades of color can affect how you feel – indeed, how certain colors can deeply affect your mood.

Once the simple plans were drawn and the contract signed, I was sentto my professor's houseto start the job. I had painted the outside of

If you have toured any open houses recently, you have almost certainly noticed the mania for gray paint. It's rare to find a house that doesn't have at leas one interior room done up in a shade of gray. Visit an art museum and you might not even notice that the walls are often painted gray. It's an interesting color that actually is the absence of color. It makes sense in an art museum: The walls are the background and shouldn't compete with the paintings and photographs.

Gray is most often created mixing pure white paint with some amount of black pigment. When most people think about color, they tend to think about every other color in the rainbow other than white or black. Gray provides a very interesting background for all other colors you might put in the rooms of your home just as it does in a museum.

That being said, you may be like my

I survived with the help of a few phone calls to my boss. It was a humbling experience as I discovered you don't know what

You can't always do this in an existing home, especially if the ceilings in the room are finished with drywall or plaster. As you tilt the wall up, it binds against the ceiling. If you're challenged by a finished ceiling, you'll most likely have to install your top and bottom plates, making sure the plates are

your it at rough measurements

son. He bought a new home that came on the market last spring. The builder had already painted all the rooms a medium gray for the aforementioned reason. Yet when I toured the house with my son, he said: "Dad, what the heck? I don't want to wake up each day thinking I'm a sailor on a battleship. It's just way too much gray! How hard would it be to paint the rooms over?"

you don't know. Keep in mind this was decades before the Internet and YouTube. You have no idea what an advantage you now have when you have to educate yourself about how to repair and build things around your home. Count your blessings!

I recommend that if you're on the fence as to what colors to use in your home, simply buy a quart and paint one wall.

Building a new interior wall in an existing housecan bemuch different from doing it on a new home job site. When we carpenters build a wall for a new home, we typically build itflaton thefloor. Onceall the studs are nailed to the bottom and top plates, we tilt the wall up and secure it so it doesn't fall over.

I answered him that we could easily repaint half the rooms in the twobedroom house in just three days. I told him it depended on the colors he'd choose, as some lighter colors such as yellow might require two coats.

He decided he wanted to do an experiment and go with some very bold colors. I thought he was making a mistake. His mother and I both warned him that a color on a small strip of paper from the paint store may look much darker once that color is on the wall. This happens because there's just so much color hitting your eyes than when you're looking at a sample that's 2 inches wide and maybe 3/4-inch tall.

"Dad, paint isn't that expensive," he said, "and since you're helping and it doesn't take long I can always repaint the room."

Oh, how convenient that your dad can help you for the price of a free lunch! If you have children, I'm sure you've been conscripted to help with projects. To be honest, I loved working on his house.

The first room we painted was his living room. He chose a deep blue color. When I opened the can, I gasped as quietly as I could, thinking it was a huge mistake. The gray wall color happened to be a superb base, and the blue covered it in one coat with ease. It was a bright, sunny spring day, and, much to my surprise, after the first wall was finished it looked amazing. I had thought it would make the room appear too small, but I didn't get that feeling. The other benefit to blue is that it's a calming color.

plumb in the same plane. You'll then cut each wall stud to fit snugly between the plates and toenail them in place. Drill angled pilot holes in the ends of the wall studs for the nails. Use no less than 3-inch-long 16d sinker nails to connect the wall studs to the plates.

If there is no ceiling, you can tilt the wall up so long as you orient the wall in the same direction as thefloor joists above. You simply make sure the top of the wall rises up in between two parallel floor joists. Once the wall is vertical, you can then slide it into position under

The kitchen was painted a stunning yellow much like a sunflower, the dining room was transformed using a deep spicy reddish brown, and his rear sunroom was coated with a stunning medium green.

After we were finished, I had to his admit that the bold colors in t open-concept house not only looked spectacular, but they also didn't clash. Once he started to hang paintings and fabrics on the wall, the colors looked even better.

I recommend that if you're on the fence as to what colors to use in your home, simply buy a quartand paint one wall. Understand that the color may look somewhat different at night than it does in the day. Experiment with flat paint vs. semi-gloss. You may find that makes a difference. No matter what, if you don't like the color, you can repaint a typical room in just hours.

Be brave! Try a bold color or two and you'll avoid that feeling that you're swabbing decks on a battleship when you mop your kitchen floor!

of the where attached the door. measurement. of your much frame the door. betrimming when you want between the top You height just the factory Trustme, install drywall gap between and the ©2021 Content

ASK THE BUILDER
©2023 Tim Carter. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
spaced center minimize ofdrywall so you Sixteen standard Don't opening you My
Measure
Building a new interiorwall in an existing house can be much different from doing it on a new home job site. When we carpenters build a wall for a new home, we typically build it flat on the floor.
AskTheBuilder_Template.indd 1

Amazing Westerly Views

1 Acre View Building lot

Don't miss out on building in one of Skagit County's most soughtafter new neighborhoods! Quiet hillside retreat with amazing views of Skagit Valley, Samish Bay, the San Juan Islands, Anacortes, and the Olympic Mountains. Serviced by city water. Quick access to I-5, 3-minutes to Mount Vernon, 30-minutes to Bellingham, and 1-hour to Seattle. Gentle slope w/ potential for more useable space. Septic system permit completed & access permit approved. Ready for you to build your dream home!

#1992310 | $299,000

(360) 421-3616 | Gabrielle@nwhomes.net www.360PropertySales.com
MOUNT VERNON - Benson Ridge
Andrea Semanko 360.840.9309 semankorealtygroup@gmail.com Semanko Realty Group LLC Elizabeth Miller 360.420.3607 elizabethm@windermere.com Windermere RE Skagit Valley SaraBeth Owens 360.318.6666 sarabeth@sarabethowens.com Semanko Realty Group LLC Michelle Foggin 360.333.1549 michellefoggin@remax.net RE/MAX Gateway Anacortes Jones Atterberry 360.708.8935 jonesatterberry@hotmail.com John L. Scott Anacortes Linda Eastman 360.202.4075 leastman@windermere.com Windermere RE Skagit Valley Suzanne Jenkins 360.941.2983 suzanne@sjenkins.com Skagit Tradition Realty LLC Elva Fawcett-Hunter 360.202.3086 elvahunterrealtor@hotmail.com Skagit Tradition Realty LLC Danya Wolf 360.708.8294 danya@skagittraditionrealty.com Skagit Tradition Realty LLC Carla Fischer 360.982.0010 Carla@skagittraditionrealty.com Skagit Tradition Realty LLC The Council of Residential Specialists is an affiliate of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® LaDon Torset 206.786.8021 ladontorset@hotmail.com Keller Williams Everett Michelle Torset 425.233.5188 mtorsetkw@gmail.com Keller Williams Everett Lee Tayebi 425.956.4054 yourtrustedbroker@gmail.com RE/MAX Eastside Bellevue Leah Courage 360.317.8888 leah@couragegrouprealty.com ONE Real Estate Anacortes Stacy LaCount 360.420.2345 lacounthomegroup@gmail.com Keller Williams Western Realty
Dave Juhl 360.770.3995 davejuhlsellshomes@gmail.com RE/MAX Gateway Anacortes Shalyce Pocock 360.421.4407 shalycepocock@johnlscott.com John L. Scott Anacortes Shelah Inman 360.661.0145 shelah@brownmcmillen.com Brown McMillen Real Estate Jean Groesbeck 360.941.3734 jean@jeangroesbeck.com Compass Anacortes Marissa Evans 360.969.9182 marissa@marissaevanshomes.com Coldwell Banker Team 360/Oak Harbor Kathi Phillips 360.929.0206 kathi@onwhidbey.com Acorn Properties Oak Harbor Terri Neilon 360.632.4895 terri@onwhidbey.com Acorn Properties Oak Harbor SKAGIT COUNTY AREA REP WHIDBEY ISLAND AREA REP Laura Bird 360.630.9692 Laura@laurabird.net RE/MAX Gateway Anacortes Debbie Benjamin 360.708.8780 debbiebenjaminCRS@gmail.com RE/MAX Gateway Anacortes Nicole Haun 360.770.6494 nicolemhaun@gmail.com RE/MAX Gateway Anacortes Wayne Locke 360.929.0226 wayne@wayneonwhidbey.com Acorn Properties Oak Harbor Sheila Davies 360.929.7226 sheila@sheilaonwhidbey.com Acorn Properties Oak Harbor CRS is the symbol of excellence in residential real estate. Our members have proven they have the experience, training and commitment to be among the best in their profession. Since 1977 the Council of Residential Specialists has been conferring the CRS Designation to agents to meet its stringent requirements. Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) is the highest credential awarded to residential sales agents, managers and brokers.
Oak Harbor Office 901 NE Midway Blvd PO Box 1138 Oak Harbor, WA 98277 Title 360-675-2246 Escrow 360-679-5055 Freeland Office 5595 South Harbor Avenue
C
WA 98249 Title & Escrow 360-331-4838 Stanwood / Camano Office 7104 265th Street NW Suite 101 Stanwood, WA 98292 Title & Escrow 360-629-9737 Anacortes Office 3010 Commercial Avenue Anacortes, WA 98221 Title & Escrow 360-299-0565 Burlington Office 111 E George Hopper Rd Burlington, WA 98233 Title 360-707-2158 Escrow 360-707-2312 5 locations to serve to you! Land Title & Escrow Your Local Partner Since 1940 Visit LTCO.com to make an order today! LOCAL SERVICE IS OUR PASSION www.LTCO.com
Suite
Freeland,

internet. Built-in Bose speakers. 960sf garage. #1975189 | $775,000

MOUNT VERNON

NW CONTEMPORARY Thunderbird 3BD 3BA 2487sf w/ vaulted, beamed ceiling in the living room. Dining room w/window seat & 2 sliding doors to covered brick patio. Upstairs bonus room/ o ce/guest bedroom. 1/3 acre lot. #2008624 | $620,000

SEDROWOOLLEY

INVESTMENT POTENTIAL Classic 4BD 2.5BA 2560sf farmhouse on 1.76 acres. Kitchen w/island & ceramic tile floors. Office + bonus room. Living room w/ fireplace & built-in bookshelves. 16,000sf pole barn w/ bathroom. #2028784 | $935,000

CLOSE TO EVERYTHING! 3BD 1BA 1046sf rambler w/ large 2-tier deck with built-in bench seating. New roof this year! Extra storage above garage. Fenced back yard on a nice low-tra c street. Close to schools, shopping, hospital, I-5 access. #1995422 | $420,000

Thank You!For voting us Skagit's Best Real Estate O ce, for the 4th time! CLASSIC 1920S FARMHOUSE 2BD+ den 1BA 1368sf on 5 acres of pasture w/ barn & storage building. Beautiful woodwork & oors w/ built-ins. Covered front porch and a two-tier deck. Gated drive. Fruit trees, grapes, & garden area. #2004946 |$650,000 STANWOOD 360-424-0300 www.SkagitTraditionRealty.com CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS FOR YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS JUANITA BUNCH....................360-941-5530 RUSS LANKER......................360-708-1117 SUZANNE JENKINS.................360-941-2983 DANYA WOLF.............................360-708-8294 DESIGNATED BROKER PATRICIA BOX ..........................360-941-9186 OFFICE MANAGER
TACKER.......................360-840-7931
FISCHER.....................360-982-0010
HUNTER
BOUDREAU...................360-391-0746
VIEWS Unique Dan Estabrook built custom home! 4BD 2.5BA 4000sf on 0.65 acre lot. Outstanding kitchen w/ Thermador Professional range. O ce. A/C. High-speed
MOUNT VERNON
LOTS FOR SALE 4.98 acres @ W Bulson Rd #1841822 | $339,000 5,663 sf @ Blackburn Ridge #2029949 | $199,000 9,248 sf @ Hillcrest Loop #2029943 | $235,000 1.27 acres @ Mountain View Rd #1861233 | $115,000 0.26 acres @ Rockport #1951005 | $40,000 0.39 acres @ Point Roberts #1863417 | $250,000 4.84 acres @ Mountain View Rd #1880932 | $149,000 0.31 acres Zoned C-2 in MV #2009122 | $279,000
BRETT
CARLA
ELVA
.......................360-202-3086 JOANN
SPECTACULAR
VACANT
MOUNT VERNON
Now is the time to plan for spring building!
SELLER FINANCING AVAILABLE
KIM WOODMANSEE 360-421-5469 kimwoodmansee@johnlscott.com www.KimWoodmansee.com Visit www.retireinskagit.com to learn more about Skagit County's Newest 55 & Older Community! OPEN HOURS Wednesdays - Sundays 1 pm - 4 pm (except Holidays) 83 Homes Clubhouse Walking Trail Nearly 1 Acre Park 55+ Community DRIVING INSTRUCTIONS: From I-5, take Exit 232 Cook Road. Head East on Cook Road a few miles into Sedro-Woolley. Take the roundabouts from Cook Road to Highway 20 East/ Moore Street heading east on Highway 20 to Fruitdale Road. Then North or Left on Fruitdale Road to McGarigle Road. West or left on McGarigle Rd. Left or South on Parkland Loop. Welcome to Brickyard Park! REAL ESTATE JOHN L SCOTT/SKAGIT PLAN 1800 3BD 1.75BA 1800sf rambler plan across from the park & walking trail. Kitchen w/ pgraded white cabinets. Covered rear patio. #1885568 $589,900 718 Parkland Lp - Sedro Woolley PLAN 1455 Corner lot! 2BD 2BA 1455sf rambler. Upgrades to light & plumbing fixtures. Covered patio w/ landscaped & fenced back yard. #1886947 $479,900 728 Parkland Lp - Sedro Woolley REDUCED $10k!
REDUCED $20k! PLAN 1800 3BD 1.75BA bordering park & walking trail. Beautiful Cascade Mt views + over $46K in upgrades! Mini split for heat/ cool. Covered patio. #1934004 $645,000 741 Parkland Lp - Sedro Woolley REDUCED $40k! PLAN 1214 Attached 2BD 1.75BA townhome w/ 36" wide doorways, no-step entry, & ADA height toilets. Gas fireplace in great room. #1971946 $459,900 756 Parkland Lp - Sedro Woolley PLAN 1543 3BD 1.75BA 1-level townhome w/ $18+K in upgrades! Kitchen w/ quartz counters. Primary suite w/ walk in closet. Covered patio. #2020015 $483,500 712 Parkland Lp - Sedro Woolley MOVE IN READY REDUCED $12k! PLAN 1543 Single story townhome! 3BD 1.75BA w/ vaulted great room. Kitchen w/ white cabinets & quartz counters. $20k in upgrades! #2020041 $485,500 714 Parkland Lp - Sedro Woolley
REDUCED $12k! New Prices for the New Year!
Andrea Semanko Designated Broker/Owner 360.840.9309 Andrea@WashingtonQualityHomes.com Joel Semanko Broker/Owner 360.941.1164 Joel@WashingtonQualityHomes.com $890,000 • 4 BR, 4 BATHS • 82ND PLACE NE, MARYSVILLE RARE ONE LEVEL DUPLEX Buy owner-occupied & rent out the other side! Open floorplan w/ great living room, cozy gas fireplace, generous sized kitchen w/ pantry & eating bar, slider to patio & flat fenced yard. Each unit: 2BD 2BA 1270sf w/ laundry in unit, gas fireplace, patio, yard, & 2 car garage. Outbuilding w/ vinyl siding. Additional parking + room for RV or boat on a generous 0.56 acre lot. Long term residents, location, & privacy. Real Estate withYou in Mind, Always! Top Ranked/Well Respected Washington State Real Estate Brokerage Serving the Greater Puget Sound Region www.SemankoRealtyGroup.com FREE HUD Home Buyer Workshop/Webinars Call Us Today to Reserve Your Seat! 888-242-6198 BAINBRIDGE ISLAND Birkland Rd NE $797,000 2 BR, 2 BATHS Great HUD Home! BURLINGTON 805 Quinnat Drive $450,000 3 BR, 2.25 BATHS MOUNT VERNON Rainier Loop $783,000 4 BR, 2.5 BATHS DUPLEX - MARYSVILLE 57th Ave NE $875,000 6 BR, 5 BATHS LA CONNER Cowichan Place $1,100,000 3 BR, 2.25 BAthS DUPLEX

3BD 2.5BA 3700sf with over 200' frontage on the South Fork Stillaguamish, just minutes from Smokey Point. Old growth cedars set the scene. Handicap friendly with level entry from the garage, wide doors and hallways and a concrete walkway around the entire house. White oak floors and custom cabinets. SKS built in appliances, fire sprinklers, generator panel, 80 gallon hot water tank with circulation pump and Hitachi heat pump. Large master suite with jetted tub, 6 foot walk-in shower, his and hers closets. Solid wood raised panel doors and trim. Car charging stations, wet bar with wine cooler, antique wood stove. This home should be seen in the daytime to appreciate the view and the access to the year-round sandy beach!

Call 425-233-5188 or 425-583-0101 for more info!

The

www.TheTorsetGroup.com | Let's Bring You Home Tatiana Ulrich Listing & Buyer Specialist 425-583-0101 Michelle Torset Managing Broker Listing & Buyer Specialist 425-233-5188
Why work with us? RESULTS! • Best tools & technology to keep you informed • Transparency through the whole process • Stunning Photos and Exceptional Marketing Selling your home shouldn't be stressful. Let us handle the process for you. SCAN HERE to see your home's value. Stay informed about how the changes to the local real estate market impacts your home value.
Market is Changing!
Spectacular Custom Rambler on 5 Acres Arlington

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.