ARLINGTON - 4BD 3BA 2464sf on peaceful 5.08 acres hidden away on Ebey Mountain. Gorgeous views, established equestrian property and room for all of your toys. 2 pastures, goat pen, barn w/ hay loft, garage + carport. #2074515 | $749,999
GRANITE FALLS - 2 bedroom cabin on level, shy half acre. Updated kitchen. Off-grid set up for generator & battery inverter. Septic & drilled artesian well installed, ready for indoor plumbing. Incl pressure & holding tank. #2072927 | $299,000
GRANITE FALLS - Over 30 acres zoned R-7200. Approx 3 acres cleared & level for a building plat. 4BD septic design approved. Beautiful mountain & territorial views Close to amenities & award winning school district. #2042495 | $350,000
GRANITE FALLS - 17.6 acres w/ multiple building sites. Breathtaking mountain views! Minutes from town on the scenic Mountain Loop Hwy. Tons of activities to do all year long. Septic and well needed, power on property. #2064691 | $429,000
GRANITE FALLS - 3 vacant lots, totaling 1.19 acres. Located across the street from the river and large community park. Ideal location without worrying about flood insurance. Power & water are available. #1977721 | $289,000
LEAVENWORTH - 2 lots sold together totaling 4.9 acres in Ponderosa Estates neighborhood. Water & power at the road. Community clubhouse w/ pool, river access, playground, hiking trails. Near Wenatchee State Park! #1986902 | $400,000
bertclay@johnlscott.com
bertclay.johnlscott.com
This updated single-level 3BD 2BA 1288sf home boasts a remodeled kitchen, Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring, a private back yard with a large deck, and beautifully landscaped low-maintenance grounds. Enjoy walks to the marina and trails in Washington Park. Don't miss this opportunity to own a modern, convenient, and nature-filled lifestyle. Schedule a viewing now!
#2074596 | $675,000
The perfect summer getaway or year-round escape! Front-row water view unit comes fully furnished and turn-keyeverything stays! West facing with fabulous views of the bay! Stroll across the street to the gated private beach area & enjoy beachcombing & kayaking. Recently updated 2BD 1.5BA 1098sf w/ modern sleek styling throughout, new flooring/ baseboards, appliances, lighting, toilets/plumbing fixtures, & water heater. Abundant storage. Bay Rim amenities also include seasonal heated outdoor pool & walking trail. Enjoy nearby restaurants, shops, & Birch Bay State Park.
Master Certified Negotiation Expert Military Relocation Professional
425-422-7243
www.snohomishcountyhomesinc.com
EVERETT
HOT INVESTOR ALERT!!
JUST LISTED!
Grab your toolbelt and make this home shine again! Spacious 3BD 1BA 1448sf Rambler in central Everett, set on a large lot. Hardwood flooring thoughout the majority of the house. There is a fireplace centrally located in the living room and plenty of room for RV parking or storage for a boat. Just Listed! Call for details | $399,950
PRIVATE LAKEFRONT
3BD 3BA 2339sf with unobstructed views of Mt. Pilchuck & 150+ft no bank beauty on Stitch Lake + 1.79 acres on 2-parcels of land. Every room filled with captivating views! Downstairs has a separate entrance, bed/bath AND beautiful views. Could be an AirBNB, home office, artist's studio, MIL, or??? Room for a shop/garage + RV/boat parking. So many options! Lake Stevens schools.
#2061622 | $949,950
SPACIOUS CONDO
2BD 2BA 1020sf ground floor end-unit condo w/ 2 parking spots. Updated kitchen, newer paint, newer flooring, cozy living room w/wood fireplace & 2 outside storage closets. Primary bedroom w/dual closets & full bath. Second bedroom is very generous with a large closet. Main bath with newer walk-in shower. Pet friendly HOA covers water/ sewer/garbage.
#2062708 | $379,950
2022 Award Of Excellence Winner 2022 Award Of Excellence Winner
www.laurabird.net
SHELTER BAY Great one-level 3BD 1.5BA 1135sf home on Deeded Land in Shelter Bay. NOT on leased land! Open kitchen & nice living room that opens up to a huge composite deck for entertaining. New flooring, interior paint, and appliances. Great HVAC system with heat pump and A/C. Oversized one car garage plus a carport and a shed. Lots of room for parking.
#2076870 | $450,000
Beautiful Shelter Bay!
Community ammenities include a boat launch, beach access, golf course, sports courts, and a clubhouse.
Sprawling spectacular territorial, water & mountain views!! Imagine the gorgeous sunsets sparkling off the ocean. Potential for numerous business ventures such as a wedding venue, winery, brewery, ranch and/or remain a working farm. Plenty of acreage to add crops or orchards. Two east parcels can be developed into 5-acre residential lots. Numerous buildings include original barn & silo, milking parlor, office, workshop, storage & stalls. Five separate homes currently rented but would also make great Airbnb or accommodations for guests of a winery or wedding venue. Walking trail to Beach runs parallel with the property. Bring your dreams & make them a reality on your own piece of Whidbey Island history!
MLS: 2063562 | $5,985,000
@team.kelli.lang
Kimarie Henning Broker | Realtor®
Cell: 360.708.9740
ANACORTES
Windermere
ANACORTES
kimariehenning@windermere.com
kimariehenning.withwre.com
GARDEN CHALET Charming NW style home w/ views of bay & greenbelt. Wood clad ceilings, radiant heat floors and lots of natural light. Lower garden level w/ 2nd kitchen. 1000sf shop. #2053622 | $1,100,000
ANACORTES
ONE-LEVEL LIVING Newer 2BD 1.75BA 2246sf w/ hardwood floors, large kitchen w/ eating island, vaulted ceilings. Primary bedroom w/ fireplace. Large office. Lower level entrance. #2051792 | $995,000
ANACORTES
BUILD HERE! Beautiful, flat 15,000 sf lot w/ three sides surrounded by Anacortes School District trails. Lot has some large trees on it and can be accessed through the alley. #2056699 | $159,000
Gina Davis Broker | Realtor®
Cell: 360.708.7794
ginadavis@windermere.com
https://ginadavis.net
ANACORTES
AWESOME EXTRAS! 3BD 2.5BA 2544sf w/ Main level living. Views of Guemes Channel. Kitchen w/ high end appliances, butler's pantry & eating bar. Still time to choose colors! #2060421 | $1,297,500
ANACORTES
WHISTLE LAKE 6.98 acres w/view of Mt. Baker. 3BD 2BA TWMH, old SW w/ value in hook-ups for ADU, + large detached shop. 1500sf attached garage. 2 septics & old well. #2063594 | $1,200,000
ANACORTES
SKYLINE 3BD 2BA 2371sf w/ views of water & mountains. Great room w/ soaring ceilings & gas fireplace. Kitchen w/ granite & newer appliances. Rec room. Wrap-around deck. #2068154 | $829,000
LA CONNER / SHELTER BAY Custom view home! Southerly water views of Mt. Rainier, Camano and Whidbey Islands. Beautifully landscaped & borders a greenbelt. Open floor plan with expansive windows and vaulted ceilings. Kitchen features granite countertops, custom oak cabinets and newer appliances. Private master suite on upper level with water view. Office with built-ins + family room with Murphy bed. Access to 1 car garage from the lower floor. Oversized utility room. Major storage throughout the home. #2072636 | $639,000
360-770-9446
connierussell.net
4 beds • 4.5 baths • 4506 sq ft • 0.41 acres
MLS:2077297 | $1,925,000 ANACORTES - Expansive water views of shipping channel and stunning sunsets over San Juan Islands. Sunset Cove Estates luxury home has large main level living with add'l flex studio/bonus/bedroom over garage, fully finished basement: large rec room/den/kitchenette, 2bed/2ba, +office, (possible MIL). Huge heated garage with 43ft bay, workbench, 240amp, wired for generator. Primary bath features deep, jetted soaking tub and dual-head shower. Whole-house vac, newly renovated powder room, new French doors and composite deck to new multilevel stone patios. Newly painted exterior & main level. Property located on quiet cul-de-sac w/private path to Washington Park trails, picnic area, boat ramp and beach. Only .6 mi to San Juan Ferry and small airport.
OAK HARBOR You will love living on the 7th hole of the golf course! Meticulous 3BD 2BA 1837sf. Open concept kitchen, nook & living room with vaulted ceilings & cozy gas fireplace. Garage w/ golf cart door. HOA dues cover landscaping & exterior maintenance. #2128857 | $575,000
PENDING
Craftsman rambler built by Landed Gentry in the Fairway Point 55+ retirement community of Oakmont. Golf course & territorial views. Great room w/ Brazilian cherry wood flooring, gathering room w/ vaulted ceilings & gas fireplace. Covered patio. #2058018 | $659,000
OAK HARBOR Ground-floor 2BD 1BA 764sf condo. Spacious living room open to kitchen with eat-in space, pantry, & stackable washer/dryer. Sliding doors off kitchen leading to patio & storage. 2 assigned parking spaces. New roof in 2022. HOA covers w/s/g. #2068342 | $409,000
PENDING
OAK HARBOR 2BD 2BA 1500sf rambler in popular Active Adult Community. Great room w/ vaulted ceiling, gas heating, skylights, central A/C, gas fireplace insert and more. The kitchen is a cook's delight! Spacious Trex deck with views of Mount Baker. #2045555 | $440,000
OAK HARBOR Immaculately maintained 2BD 1BA 964sf condo in quiet & private setting w/ view of Saratoga Passage. Primary Bedroom w/ space for king sized bed. New carpet throughout. Washer/dryer included. Moments from downtown Oak Harbor. #2127130 | $289,900
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
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.
By Tim CarterYou know you can’t magically summon a body of water to appear on your property, but you can enhance your yard, patio or deck with a water feature as small as a fountain or bird bath, or large enough to dunk a VW Beetle.
Do 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.
I’ve had small koi or fish ponds at my last three houses, and I have one at my current home in New Hampshire. The Internet is full of advice on how to build a pond. I’ve tried all sorts of methods. I believe I’ve finally come up with a formula that creates a natural-looking pond and keeps pond maintenance to a minimum.
Every now and then it's interesting to go back in time. I clearly remember having to build my first partition wall inside a 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 first pond I built 45 years ago was made with concrete. I dug a depression in the backyard that was the size of a two-person jacuzzi. Fortunately, I had enough fall that I could put a drain in the bottom to empty out the water. This allowed me to clean the pond.
Once the simple plans were drawn and the contract signed, I was sent to my professor's house to start the job. I had painted the outside of
The concrete was 3 inches thick, and I put chicken wire in it to strengthen it. The day after I poured the concrete I applied a 3/4-inchthick layer of cement stucco over the fresh concrete. I pressed thousands of pieces of rounded gravel into the stucco to make it look better.
This pond worked really well, but it was not easy to reach down to unscrew the drain plug. There was no electricity to the pond so I didn’t have a pump or waterfall. This pond would transform to a green swamp in no time. It was a maintenance nightmare, and the fish would die from lack of oxygen.
My next pond project involved a cheap plastic liner that had two
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
different water levels in it. This is a good idea because, as you’ll discover, the key to having clear pond water is to have certain aquatic plants that work to keep the pond healthy and the water clear.
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!
If you really want to go whole hog, you might want to build a small stream that has several small waterfalls within it. This stream eventually feeds into the pond.
Building a new interior wall 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. Once all the studs are nailed to the bottom and top plates, we tilt the wall up and secure it so it doesn't fall over.
The house I currently live in has a magnificent pond that I didn’t build. The previous owner had it installed. The liner of the pond is a giant sheet of black commercial rubber roofing. It’s been installed now for 20 years and has never leaked.
Installing the rubber is simple. You just dig a hole that’s the size, depth and shape of the finished pond you desire. Be sure to incorporate different levels. You then unroll the rubber and set it in the depression with enough excess to lap up onto the ground surrounding the pond. I have about 16 inches of rubber ringing my pond. It’s covered with granite boulders, plants, moss and so forth in order to completely hide the rubber.
I also have a waterfall. This waterfall does three things. It adds oxygen to the pond water. The falling water makes a relaxing sound. And the splashing water makes the surface of the pond move ever so slightly, drawing your eye to it.
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.
Frogs, chipmunks, squirrels, litter peeper frogs and who knows what else are attracted to this oasis. It’s very soothing to sit by the pond reading a book or just relaxing as a breeze blows by.
If there is no ceiling, you can tilt the wall up so long as you orient the wall in the same direction as the floor 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
If you really want to go whole hog, you might want to build a small stream that has several small waterfalls within it. This stream eventually feeds into the pond. A recirculating pump in the ponds sends water to the top of the stream.
Think about it. When you go on a hike and come to a moving stream, you almost always stop to watch the water move. Most humans are mesmerized by moving water. I have my own thoughts as to why, but it really doesn’t matter. You know that the babbling sounds of water moving through a stream fills you with happiness. That should be your goal: Create a water feature on your property that will bring a smile to your face every day.
Building a new interior wall 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.
360-468-3344 | www.wrelopez.com
Mid-Century beach house! 2BD 2BA 2042sf on 0.31 acres w/ 126' waterfront. Open western views across Agate Beach. Downstairs studio apt w/separate beach entry. MacKaye Harbor, the most protected harbor in SJ, is your perfect backyard playground. #2053836 | $1,347,000
2BD 2.5BA 3134sf home on 13.24 acres w/ 582 ft of medium-bank WF on 4 parcels. Fir floors & trim, clear cedar ceilings, mullion doors & walls of bookcases. Morning & evening screened porches. Detached studio/office. Upper wooded 10 acres w/ improvements. #2053034 | $2,495,000
Well-maintained Energy Star 2BD 2BA 1813sf MH on 1.16 acres lightly wooded w/ some sunny yard space + fenced garden w raised beds. Vaulted ceilings & open floor plan. Eat-in kitchen w/ bar seating. Office w/ exterior entry. Minisplit heat pump. NEW 4BD septic. #2053476 | $539,000
3BD 2BA 1524sf MH on 0.46 acre lot w/ fenced garden space & storage bldg. Brazilian cherry hardwood & ceramic tile floors. Energy Star package + upgraded heating system. Metal roof. Community water. Fiber optics installed. Next to the community beach path! #2052666 | $627,000
2BD 1.5BA 1215sf on sunny acre lot. Maple floors, soapstone wood stove, vaulted ceilings upstairs, fir doors & trim and cedar siding. Turn key laundry business with separate water share, commercial size septic system, new roof and electrical service panel. #2051602 | $795,000
Timber-frame 2BD 2BA 2191sf on 20 acres. Living room w/ wood stove & sunny window seat. Loft w/ primary suite & view balcony. Main floor incl BD w/ bay window & deck, French doors, & extra finished room. Garden + greenhouse. SJPT Conservation Easement. #2039484 | $1,200,000
Bathrooms aren’t just utilitarian spaces anymore; they’re becoming personalized, spa-like retreats. If you’re ready to hit refresh on your bathroom, these eight ideas will inspire you to turn this everyday space into a calming sanctuary.
Homeowners and designers are increasingly using accent walls to amp up interest in the bathroom. These can be used to liven up a neutral palette or help draw focus to a show-stopping feature, such as a soaking tub or custom vanity.
If you decide to add an accent wall to your bathroom, carefully choose which wall to showcase. Look to the features around or on the wall to help you decide. If you’re still not sure which wall is best, select the one most visible from the doorway.
Personalization continues to be a top priority for homeowners, and freestanding vanities (with their furniture-like appeal) present a great opportunity to add a custom look. Plus, freestanding vanities generally offer the same design and storage options as built-ins, but at a less expensive price point.
Updating your vanity is one of the quickest ways to change the look of your bathroom without undertaking an entire remodel. To customize your freestanding vanity even further, swap out the hardware with pulls in your favorite metallic finish, then accessorize the countertop with a pretty tray or vase.
Though hardware and faucet finishes are one way to try this trend, you can also go with deep-hued vanities, black accent walls and even plumbing fixtures. Used sparingly, black accents can provide a pop of contrast in a traditional white bathroom. When applied liberally, black accents help foster a glamorous vibe.
As homeowners seek to create a calming space, subtle natural hues are on the rise. In addition, natural materials like wood and marble blend beautifully with a wide range of color palettes. Whether you prefer a minimalist Scandinavian look, a rustic farmhouse vibe or a traditional feel, natural tones and textures work well with a variety of design styles. To help modernize the space, incorporate a small dose of black to ground the look.
As the average house size increases, bigger master bathrooms mean more opportunities to incorporate convenient design elements like double vanities. Although double sinks can reduce the amount of usable counter space, many manufacturers are now addressing that issue with creative storage solutions. Vanities outfitted with power outlets, full-extension drawers and custom holders for grooming tools can help minimize clutter and make the most of limited space. Side-by-side vanities are another stylish choice with numerous customization options.
When space allows, homeowners are ditching the shower-bath combo and opting for a walk-in shower and equally luxurious tub. A larger shower area presents ample opportunity for introducing customization and spa-like extras. Add an element of luxury with built-in storage niches or a teak bench lined with pampering products.
©2022 Meredith Corporation.
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
www.century21northhomes.com
730 S BURLINGTON BLVD, BURLINGTON 877-319-7625
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 Level 5.5 acres w/ power to site. Well & septic needed to build. Tiny home and shed do not convey. Approx 1 acre of building space. #2022502 | $140,000
SEDRO WOOLLEY Level 1 acre lot with expansive views of Skagit Valley and the Olympic Peninsula towards the west. Gated entry. HOA includes community water. #2062408 | $335,000
LAKE TYEE Well-maintained 1987 park model w/ metal covered roof & deck. Ready to build out room addition! 210 days use, $172/mo covers w/s/g. #2077676 | $53,950
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 | $119,000
LAKE TYEE Enjoy a hot cup of coffee on your deck, take a deep breath of forest air & listen to the sound of Grandy Creek just a few feet away. $172/mo dues #2059220 | $125,000
CONCRETE Your very own vacation property at Lake Tyee! 1BD 2016 Park Model. Heated pools, basketball, tennis, mini golf, horseshoes, fishing and hiking. #2047666 | $69,000
425.231.2651
christinahomesalesc21@ gmail.com
360.961.7795 anita.kohl3@ gmail.com
ELMA Perfect parcel for your get-away. Surroundings are green with trees, lush and private. Located in prime fishing & hunting areas 30 minutes to Shelton. #2051587 | $55,000
PACIFIC BEACH Beautiful forested lot perfect for those weekend camping getaways. Large mature trees, lush native greenery. Close to Roosevelt Beach. #2074294 | $13,900
YAKIMA 10 acres ready for your creativity. Nestled among golden rolling hills you will love the seclusion and privacy this acreage provides. Power at road #2059590 | $39,900
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
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 | $699,000
BURLINGTON So much potential! Parking front & back. Includes commercial kitchen & restaurant equipment. 1BR 3/4BA & den/office space upstairs. #2052517 | $450,000
NEW PRICE!
MOUNT VERNON Nookachampo Hiils 0.45 acre building lot. Enjoy the multiple trails and amazing privacy. Floor plans and permits approved and paid for! #2028749 | $200,000
CONCRETE A quiet place for a fun weeklend. Fully furnished. Sleeps 8-10, loft w/ 3 queen beds. Storage shed, deck to entertain & private fire pit area. #2073872 | $139,000
MARBLEMOUNT Rare lot with FULL TIME Living, no recreational restriction! Fully furnished 1BD 1.5BA 836sf cabin. Metal roof. Detached bunkhouse. #2044756 | $129,900
CONCRETE Bring this 4BA 2BA 1782sf home back to life or start fresh! 18.89 acres w/ 5 acres fenced around home. Room to grow! 1 mile to Lake Shannon. #2069566 | $625,000
CONCRETE Build ready! Level 1 acre in gated community with only 10 lots. Well is in place, electricity on road, septic design and building permit approved. #2068225 | $165,000
BLAINE Updated one-level 3BD 2BA 1672sf home. Brand new exterior siding, paint and lighting. Close to shopping, schools, coffee shops, & beaches. #2067001 | $565,888
This is why you move to America’s #1 Cities and work with the #1 team!
With summer in full swing, you're probably spending most of your time enjoying the great outdoors – and that likely includes relaxing in your backyard, or hosting friends for a dinner alfresco. Don't let the fun stop once the sun goes down just because your outdoor lighting is nonexistent or inefficient.
Not all outdoor lighting is created the same, and it requires more than just putting up a wall light or some string lights and calling it a day. To create ambiance, it's all about choosing the right type of lighting fixture for your backyard. Luckily, Michael Murphy, director of marketing and business development at Lee Douglas Interiors, is here to help. Here, Murphy breaks down the different types of outdoor lighting, where to place fixtures, how to calculate how much lighting you need and much more. Use his tips and you'll be able to enjoy those fun summer nights even more.
1Include these three types. Make sure to incorporate the three basic types of lighting: ambient, task and accent. Ambient lighting can be achieved through hanging lights, post lights and wall lights. Task lighting includes pathway lights, plus deck and security lights. And you can get accent outdoor lighting with landscape kits and spotlights. "For a small patio and a modest budget, consider string lights, solar spotlights or LED candles," Murphy says.
2Calculate. Before you start shopping, you'll need to figure out exactly how much lighting you need. "To determine how much light a space requires, try this quick calculation: multiply the square footage of the area you want to light by 1.5 to get a rough estimate of the total wattage required," he says. "For example, 100 square feet of space would require 150 watts."
3Plan ahead when choosing fixtures. Observe your space and take measurements so you don't choose fixtures that are too large-scale. "Check the size and position of a fixture before you buy using a simple piece of paper," Murphy says. "Use a paper template to determine exact placement to review the size before buying. For either the front porch or the back patio, the size of an outdoor wall light should be approximately one-third the height of the door." You'll also want to make sure you're choosing sturdy lighting that's made of highquality and weather-resistant materials.
For a lawn quick fix, Murphy suggests using a landscape lighting kit. "Try a kit that plugs directly into any outdoor outlet," he says. "These kits typically consist of several ground spot lights strung together on a single cord. Arrange them in a garden to cast dramatic shadows, or place around the perimeter of a patio to set a festive mood." You can also try solar landscape lighting as well.
4 Use LEDs."They use far less energy than halogen or incandescent bulbs," Murphy says. "Plus, they are almost maintenance-free, so you won't have to change bulbs."
5 Take a look from inside your home. This can help you decide on which lighting to choose and how to place it around your yard. "Consider how patio spaces, gardens and pathways look from inside your home," he says. "Lighting gardens or shrubbery that can be seen from living or dining rooms gives a room-expanding view to the outside at night. Think path lighting for garden areas, or use solar outdoor lighting for a quick and easy style update."
©2022 Kathryn Weber. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
If you've ever walked through the patio section of your favorite home center, you know how great some of the outdoor furniture looks. Serious upgrades have been made to outdoor furniture, and it almost looks like what you'd see indoors. If you need a few pieces (perhaps a new table or some comfy chairs), look no further than the patio section of your local retailer.
We've all seen the migration of outdoor living, but that doesn't mean what goes outside can't come inside. There's a real practicality for bring outdoor furniture into your home. For example, pet owners and those will small children will appreciate the durability of spill resistant fabrics and rugs.
And because these pieces are usually budget-friendly, they're real contenders for indoor use. That way, if Fido chews up the sofa cushion, you aren't out $600 on a down-filled pillow that fills your living room with white fluff. Plus, kids can spill grape juice to their heart's content around outdoor fabrics that are washable and resist stains.
For a living room sofa that has seen its better days, don't think twice about replacing it with an outdoor sofa. Maybe what you need is a whole living room set; you can easily put one together that will look terrific and give you a lot of bang for your decorating buck.
If you like to change things up in your home, adding outdoor furniture inside gives you the ability to change with the seasons. With an abundance of seat cushion choices in various colors, patterns and fabrics, you can swap out cushions with the seasons, or just on a whim, and not be set back for the price and time it takes to reupholster.
Or, you can change pieces altogether. Outdoor furniture prices are more affordable than indoor furniture, so you can swap out with new pieces as you like. Of course, you can always repurpose your outdoor furniture to, well, the outdoors.
One of the easiest uses of outdoor furniture is for seating. Add an outdoor seat in your bedroom, and you can have five for the price of one inexpensive slipper chair. Then you can use the extra chairs in the living area. Or, look for cute design accessories such as small tables that can be set next to chairs. With all the outdoor colors to choose from, your accessories can add a bright and unexpected punch of color to your home.
For something more substantial, try a pair of wicker chairs in any room where you entertain guests. They'll look terrific and give you a natural touch. In the foyer, try a charming outdoor woven settee to create an easy spot to place a purse or put on shoes.
Throw in some poufs for a fun reading spot in the kids' rooms. Always opt for a natural fiber such as seagrass, wicker, bamboo or rattan. These textures have a timeless look and ageless appeal that works indoors as beautifully as it does outdoors, and brings a little of the outside in.
©2022 Kathryn Weber. Distributed By Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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.
By Tim CarterDYo 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.
ou've heard the wise saying, "Good fences make good neighbors." It's been around in one form or the other for hundreds of years and Robert Frost immortalized it in one of his poems just over a century ago.
The advice is solid and you can take it one step further, should you desire. Attractive and one-of-a-kind fences make great and appreciative neighbors. These special fences can also serve a secondary purpose of making your landscaping even more beautiful.
Every now and then it's interesting to go back in time. I clearly remember having to build my first partition wall inside a 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.
Stop and think about that for a moment. When was the last time you saw a fence that put your head on a swivel? You don't give a second thought to a plain-vanilla chain-link fence. A split-rail wood fence might get an extra half-second glance from you. A picket fence with special posts and humped fence sections might get you to comment on its grandeur.
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
Building a new interior wall 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.
standard Don't opening you My your it at rough measurements Measure of the where attached the
of your much frame the
But what happens if you take it to the next level? What happens if you invest the extra time to build a decorative fence using layered materials, simple geometric designs, and any other trim pieces to create a one-of-a-kind fence? You can do this using any number of materials such as wood, wrought iron, aluminum or even vinyl.
Once the simple plans were drawn and the contract signed, I was sent to my professor's house to start the job. I had painted the outside of
I can tell you from experience that fences like this do create years of pleasure both for you and those who live on the other side of the manmade barrier. Several times a year I get the privilege to visit the Asticou Azalea Garden on Mount Desert Island in Downeast Maine and see such a fence.
Wood is probably the best material to consider if you intend to build your own decorative fence. It's easy to obtain, it's easy to work with, and it might be the most affordable option you have.
There are quite a few basic things you should consider before you start your project. First and foremost, check with your local town or city to see if there are restrictions when it comes to fencing. The community I last lived in had a height requirement for fences. The founders of the community wanted to preserve the open vistas and rural feel of the land and knew that tall fences would ruin this look. Fence
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!
Building a new interior wall 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. Once all the studs are nailed to the bottom and top plates, we tilt the wall up and secure it so it doesn't fall over.
heights were limited to 56 inches. Once you determine if you can build a fence, you need to make sure the fence is on your land. If you don't know the exact location of your property lines, it might be well worth it to have a surveyor come out and re-establish your lot boundaries. Many homeowners don't realize a surveyor can install stakes or pins along a boundary line with speed and precision. These intermediary points will allow you to ensure your fence is on your property.
If you have buried utilities in your area, call 811 three days before you intend to start to use a post hole digger. The last thing you want to
do is chop an electric line in half, damage a fiber-optic cable, pierce a gas line, or create a fountain cutting into a water line.
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 the floor 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
Think of the future. I've seen many other home improvement articles try to convince you to surround your fence posts with concrete. It's not necessary, and concrete will cause you tremendous pain in the future if you need to replace a fence post. Often the soil is strong enough on its own to support sideways movement of a fence. If you feel the need to add additional strength, then surround key fence posts with a 5-inch-wide ring of crushed gravel. Once this compacts, it will be just like concrete and far easier to remove should the need arise.
If you're using wood, take whatever steps are necessary to pre-cut and pre-stain or paint each individual piece of wood on all sides and edges before you assemble the pieces. If you layer wood pieces on top of one another and don't do this, water will seep into the wood, causing paint to peel prematurely, and it will accelerate wood rot.
I've found over the years the best fence paint is not paint! Do what Tom Sawyer did and apply a coat of true whitewash. You can add dry pigments to real whitewash to achieve just about any color.
be trimming when you want between the top You height just the factory Trust install drywall gap between and the ©2021 Content
Wood is probably the best material to consider if you intend to build your own decorative fence.
Alush garden hedge can create more than a barrier between properties, and it's a useful way to lower noisy traffic or nearby neighbors. Planting a hedge is an attractive way to muffle sounds and enclose your property while creating a lush backdrop for a bed of flowers. And it might encourage songbirds to take up residence. But planting a hedge is also a commitment that includes regular maintenance, weeding, clipping and trimming.
You'll get the best planting advice from a local garden center about property conditions and soil and choosing hedging material that grows well in your area. Ask about spacing requirements, so you allow plenty of growing room between the plants. Find out what type and how much fertilizer to add, and ask about the best time to clip and trim the hedge.
A landscape service charges $1,228, including labor and material, to plant a 30-foot hedge of 10 boxwood plants. Boxwood is a popular hedging material because it's attractive and grows relatively fast. You can do the job yourself for $910 for 10 plants and fertilizer and pocket a 29% saving. The job involves digging the holes for the plants, fertilizing the soil and planting them.
Before you begin any planting between your property and your neighbors' property, consult your survey so you (and your neighbor) understand where property lines begin and end.
By Ilyce R. Glink and Samuel J. Tamkin
AFirst, there are existing home warranties talking about) and provided by either of products used to build new There are several home existing home warranties. have purchased (or received) and most of the companies
Home warranties are contracts replacement of a home's mechanical The basic plan typically covers, plumbing and heating and with many appliances. All items from the list of things sure that you buy the right However, most home warranty add coverage for additional Some warranties will give of a specific period of days, and you pay for a service call, days later, you won't have to same problem.
I found Ilyce's book, "100 Questions Every First-Time Home Buyer Should Ask," to be extremely helpful. However, there was one section that I felt received "short shrift," and that was the section about receiving the keys from the owner after the closing. Specifically, what are the buyer's options if some of the keys that he receives don't work, or if some of the keys are missing? I expect to have my closing this week, and I would like to know what to do if I have a problem with the keys after I had already made full payment for the home. I would appreciate, very much, any advice you can provide regarding this issue.
For example, if you pick may include additional refrigerators, freezers, pools and spas, septic appliances and home systems. specific costs for each additional plan. You may also encounter platinum, gold or silver) that Be sure to read the fine print specifically under each plan. Keep in mind that home year and you'll pay around plan. But the home warranty working order on the date agreed to). They won't fix broken) at closing. So, if you machine is on its very last buy a home warranty plan machine the week after closing.
Interestingly, for those buying plans now cover the cost of locks. With this rekey benefit home will have new keys and warranty from day one.
Before you whip out your reviews about these companies, them online, check out their long they have been in business. that do business in your state minimum, their registrations
A:Congratulations on almost closing on your property. Why are you concerned that you might receive keys that don't work? Or, that you will not receive all of the keys that the sellers have in their possession? Have the sellers been problematic during the home buying process? Did you or someone you know have a previous problem with keys when you (or they) rented or purchased a home?
Here's what many people do immediately upon closing: they rekey their locks. That way, it doesn't matter whether or not you get all of the keys you're entitled to. You can hire a locksmith to put in new locks or even electronic locks, or you can sometimes take care of that yourself, if you're handy and know what you're doing. You can remove the cylinders and then go to a locksmith to get new keys made.
Usually, sellers leave at least one full set of keys for the buyer for the closing. The listing broker may have a full set in the lockbox or may have a full set at the time of the walkthrough of the home. You'd expect to see keys for any front and back doors to the home, as well as keys to any other outside doors to the home.
Prior to performing your walkthrough of the property before closing, you should ask your real estate agent to make sure that all of these keys are located and available at that time. You can then check to make sure these keys work before the closing.
Sometimes sellers lose indoor keys to closets and the like. You might not see all keys at closing, but you really need to be able to get into the home and lock it to keep it safe. You also should be able to get in and out of any garage and in and out of any building. Surely, you should also be able to retrieve your mail. Lastly, after closing you should be able to get around a building or development by using the common key, key fobs or codes.
Then comes the question of what you might do if you don't get all the keys, remotes or fobs at closing.
One option: a holdback. If you feel you're missing a set of keys, you can negotiate to withhold some funds at the closing until all wayward keys and fobs have been delivered. Sometimes, while unpacking a box, they find an extra set here or there, and then those typically get dropped off later, either directly or through the listing agent.
This happened to us recently. We were helping a family member close on a property they had lived in for 45 years. In all that time, there were extra sets of keys made and handed out. A few days after the closing, Sam realized he still had an extra set, and immediately let the broker know. We dropped them off with the building's doorman the next day.
Sometimes, agents have an extra set of keys. You'll want to make sure you get those. And, if there's a key left in the lockbox (used by agents to gain access to the house while it was listed), you'll want to make sure you get that one too.
Finally, if you have some concerns about the seller not vacating the property before the closing, or that the seller might keep a set of keys, you'll want to check everything carefully at the property before the closing.
We always recommend buyers do a final walkthrough after the sellers have moved out but before the closing. You need to check to be sure the sellers have taken what they were supposed to and left items that were specifically listed in the contract. Remember, the house should be in the same condition as the day you bought it. Be sure to look for any damage caused by the move out, so you can have that conversation before you close on the property.
We hope you don't have a problem at your closing, but the best way to ward off any issues is to have a plan in place. Once you close, either hire someone to rekey your locks, buy and install new locks, or make sure your agent works with the listing agent to secure all keys to the property before the closing. And, always do the walkthrough after the seller has moved out.
We hope your closing goes well.
There’s no better way to infuse energy into your home than with a few houseplants. Of course, with so many options to choose from, picking the right plants for each space can be a little overwhelming. To help simplify your life, here are the perfect plants for every room in your home.
Because it’s said to represent good luck and prosperity, the peace lily is an ideal plant to decorate the entryway of your home and greet visitors with. Its glossy leaves and white flowers provide an elegant focal point and, perhaps best of all, peace lilies are touted for their ability to purify the air.
An aloe vera plant can look great in any part of the home, but chances are you’ll benefit the most from having it in your kitchen. Should you burn your hand on a hot frying pan or get a small cut while dicing vegetables, you can break off a small piece of aloe vera and apply it directly to your skin for relief.
The fiddle leaf fig is a favorite among plant enthusiasts, and a large living room is the perfect place to position this ornamental tree. Just make sure that this finicky houseplant receives the proper amount of sunlight and water.
Looking for a low-maintenance plant for your workspace? A few succulents are an excellent choice because they can easily fit on your desk and usually only need to be watered every week or two. Plus, when you’re feeling stressed out, they can be soothing to look at and help you calm down.
Research has shown that the smell of lavender has calming effects, which is why it’s widely used as a natural sleep aid. If you want a plant that will help you to wake up feeling refreshed each morning, you can’t go wrong with lavender.
| $1,300,000
BUILT FOR ENTERTAINING Beautifully appointed 2BD 3.5BA 3006sf home w/ NO steps. Wide doorways & hallways. Enameled metal roof. Extremely large 3 car garage w/ 1/2 bath. Large deck with gazebo on landscaped 0.49 acre lot. #2067842 | $925,000
UPDATES THROUGHOUT 2BD 1BA 1216sf on 0.66 acre lot. Updated bathroom, NEW oor in kitchen & laundry, NEW metal roof, NEW vinyl windows & tankless water heater. Garage + 2 carports. 1BD, 1BA, 450sf guest house. #2072474 | $469,000
COMMERCIAL LAND 3 acres zoned M-1 Industrial District, O ering a multitude of potential and allowed uses. Easy access to I-5. All utilities available in street. Buyer to verify uses with the City of Burlington Planning Department. MLS:2063728 | $1,100,000
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 | $849,000
707 Parkland Lp - Sedro Woolley
OPEN HOURS
12-3 Wednesday - Sunday
Closed Holidays
LANDSCAPED
PLAN 1980 One of our largest homes! 3BD 1.75BA split plan. Ppgraded light fixtures, doors, carpet, ADA toilets. Landscaped & fenced. #2048388 $619,900
701 Parkland Lp - Sedro Woolley
JUST LISTED PHOTO OF SIMILAR HOME
1.75BA single-story townhome. Great rm w/ fireplace. LVP flooring. HOA maintains yard & irrigation. #2070220 $489,900
COME SEE!
PLAN 1987 3BD 1.75BA w/ stone exterior & porch. Great room w/ gas fireplace w/ upgraded mantle & hearth. Kitchen w/ quartz. Mini-split AC. #2058112 $619,900
705 Parkland Lp - Sedro Woolley
JUST LISTED
PLAN 1543 3BD 1.75BA townhome with over $25k in upgrades. Kitchen w/white cabinets, gas range, & quartz counters. Covered patio. #2070292 $494,900
Mukilteo
Sold in 6 days, @ full price offer & then some!
Sold! $100k Over e asking price and a Quick close
180 DEGREE WATER VIEWS & SUNSETS
4BD 2.5B A 2788sf. The views are breath taking & the sunsets of full color. The home has wall windows w-reflections in the water of the Olympic Mountains & sits high on a hill side allowing scenic views. MLS: 2059990
Bothell
When you find a home you love, your agent will help you submit an offer. We are skilled negotiators that know how to get you the best price and value possible. Once an offer has been accepted we'll help you navigate through inspections, appraisals, and closing in a stress free way.
We do all of this at no cost to you, the Buyer, as we are compensated by the sellers.
Sold! Just 6 days on market, wi
Full asking and a Quick close
BEAUTIFUL WELL-KEPT HOME
4BD 2.5BA 1906sf. Edmonds schools, close to Mill Creek Town Center. Home is immaculate, turn key ready. Private back yard, nice sitting deck to relax. Mature landscaping, two car garage w-parking in driveway. MLS: 2062874
