RE-Weekly.com REAL ESTATE IN SKAGIT, ISLAND AND WHATCOM COUNTIES
INSIDE
This Issue This Issue
Tally DEFAULTS The Real FALLING CosTs of P. 4 ReloCaTing P. 4
Q & A: Our TheAsk aRT of Broker youR Deal
8 P.P.8-9
& a: ask 5Q TIPS FOR A ouR BRokeR SUCCESSFUL P. 9 SHOWING P. 9
FEATURE HOME:
$420,000 360.421.5021 - 360.724.8555
P. 10 -11
1584664
327 CoTTonWooD DR, CaMano islanD Rebecca Chamberlain & Jeannine Reinig Windermere Re anacortes Properties
SEE PAGE 5 3 FOR MORE
ClassifieDs P. 10-11 Classifieds
a supplement to the skagit Valley herald and the anacortes american
MARch 24 – 30, 2016 2017 xxxxxxxxxx, 1584664
INSIDE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
4
Defaults falling.....................................P. 4 Q & A: Ask our Broker...........................P. 8 5 tips for a successful showing............P. 9 Classifieds..................................... P. 10-11
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SKAGIT PUBLISHING
All real estate advertised in Real Estate Weekly is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that
5 Tips
BURLINGTON
D AN TL N CA VA
w NE
$19,950/each
Builders dream! 3 adjacent view lots each sold separately in Glenhaven community. Affordable & lightly treed. Public water & electricity available in street. Community amenities available. Great fishing on Reed Lake & Cain Lake. MLS #1012590, MLS #1012618 & MLS #1012646
Concrete
$79,000
Affordable 3 BR home in Cape Horn Community. Bring your fix up skills. Knotty pine laminate flooring. Private lot with mature evergreens in front yard. Roomy .3 acre lot. NOT in flood plain. Community Park w/river/beach/boat launch access. MLS #1092819
$299,000
Split level home in desirable location. 3 BR, 2 BA. New furnace. 2 fireplaces. Large deck. Newer roof & new exterior paint. MLS #1080530
Call Wilma, 661-1631
Wilma Louia Designated Broker/Owner 661-1631
2
Charlie & Jeannie Boon 708-9645
$152,000
Unobstructed South-Southwest views of Olympic Mtns, Skagit Bay & farmlands. East side borders Little Mtn. Park. Property ready for building permit. All utilities paid for & installed to building site. Approved 3 BR septic. MLS #743621
Call Wilma, 661-743621
publication. Unless otherwise noted, all photographs, artwork and ad designs printed are the sole property of Skagit Publishing and may not be duplicated or reprinted without express written permission. Skagit Publishing is not responsible for typographical or production errors or the accuracy of information provided by advertisers.
www.SkagitValleyRealEstate.com
G TIN LIs
Mount Vernon
$209,500
Built in 1901 with view of Skagit River. Charming home with 11 foot ceilings feat. 2 BR, 1.5 BA. Renovated in 2006 with hardwood floors, kitchen cabinets, gas fireplace & new deck. All original crown molding & chandeliers. Kitchen has original ceiling tiles & farm sink. All electrical updated & insulated blown into ceiling. MLS #1092727
Call Jim, 708-1681
Sedro-Woolley
$289,900
Fantastic location. Nice flat usable 4.38 acres close to town. 2 BR, 1 BA, gas heat. Country kitchen with plenty of counter space. Dining area off kitchen with built in china hutch. New roof and furnace in 2016. Barn with 2 horse stalls. Other outbuildings and covered RV parking. MLS #1080660
Call Ivana, 770-3550
LookIng foR fuLL SERVICE PRoPERty ManagEMEnt?
G TIN LIs
Sedro-Woolley
$449,900
Fantastic custom home w/amazing mountain views. Master suite has private entrance to wrap around porch. Master bath has double jetted tub. New carpet and tankless hot water heat. Huge over-sized garage w/extra tall doors. Room for shop. 28 x 32 two story shop. MLS #1091800
Call CallElizabeth, Elizabeth,708-8800 708-8800
Jim Stransky 708-1681
w NE
Mount Vernon
Call Debbie, 708-8780
w NE
Burlington
2025 Riverside Drive, Suite D Mount Vernon, WA 98273 (360) 755-9596 D AN TL N CA VA
G TIN LIs
Ron, 333-1045 CallCall Elizabeth, 708-8800
all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. For further information call HUD Toll Free at 1-800-669-9777. All Houses subject to prior changes without notice. Neither advertisers nor Skagit Publishing are responsible for any errors in the ad copy. Skagit Publishing reserves the right to refuse any advertising, which we deem unsuitable for our
MOUNT VERNON
320 S Burlington Blvd Burlington, WA 98233 (360) 755-9494
Territory NW T
Sedro-Woolley
To advertise in RE-Weekly or other Skagit Publishing publications, Call: 360.416.2180 or Email: ads@skagitads.com ©2016 by Skagit Publishing LLC | All rights reserved.
Kirk Campbell 770-7470
Ron Van Pelt 333-1045
Elizabeth Detillion 708-8800
Samish Island
$750,000
Pvt. Samish Island home w/145’ low bank waterfront. .88 acre lot. Breath-taking views. 2330 SF, 2+ BR, 2.5 BA. Recently updated kitchen w/granite & newer appl. Enjoy clamming, crabbing & boating. Only 20 min. off I-5. MLS #385906
Call today and let our experienced staff go to work for you!
360-755-5555
Call Charlie, 708-1415 or Jeannie, 708-9645
Ivana Wood 770-3550
Mike Welling 540-1341
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Debbie Benjamin 708-8780
Corinne Cartwright 202-2397
Laura Kaestner 441-5099
Jennifer Ohlsen 540-0717
Joe Eckerson 333-1640
Traci Erickson Property Manager 755-5555
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March 24, 2017
Feature Home From cover: 327 COTTONWOOD DR, CAMANO ISLAND
Windermere indermere real estate/anac estate/anacortes Properties 3018 commercial ave. anacortes, Wa 360.293.8008 www.anacortesrealestate.com
sell a new home and earn a slice of the real estate pie.
ecord-low interest rates and record-low housing prices are renewing interest in the floundering housing market for many people. “When sellers are interviewing real estate agents to market their homes, their primary focus is usually on the advertising that the agent will offer them,” says Jessica Goodbody of Weichert Realtors. Let us help you meet your marketing goals by advertising in Real Estate Weekly. weekly
RealEstate
Call 360.416.2180 today!
goskagit.com
ads@skagitads.com
1584667
Brown McMillen Real Estate
360.757.6013 800.869.7084
w w w. b r o w n m c m i l l e n . c o m • 235 W. Rio Vista Avenue, Burlington
SALE INCOME pROpERTY…Large commercial building located in Sedro Woolley with 5 tenants and good rental history. A real money maker at just $325,000 #1078482
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BURLINGTON RAMBLER…Great home on 1.41 acres inside City Limits. Includes 3 BD, 1.75 BA, & bonus room. Newer roof, wood flooring, bathrooms, & windows. Don’t miss out! $273,500 #1090935
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OpEN HOUSE SUNDAY, MARCH 26TH • 12-3PM
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ONE OWNER HOME...First time on the market! Lovely corner lot near hospital & park. This 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home is one of a kind with gorgeous remodeled kitchen that will impress, and lower family room w/lots of storage. $334,599 #1091986 G
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TWO HOMES! 3 BD, 2 BA rambler. Granite, hardwood, stainless appliances, vaulted ceilings, master suite w/walk in closet. Plus 2 BR 1 BA chalet style home. View of Skagit River. # 966598 $375,000 Kristen Tuttle Yvonne Brown Galen Kindred Holly Hilts
March 24, 2017
COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES…Excellent contemporary style home with great mountain & valley views. 3 BD, 2.5 BA, great neighborhood! $399,500 #1079926
708-8392 840-4375 770-7083 661-5538
Jeff Ingman Shelah Inman Jodi Dynes Fritz Inman
202-2859 661-0145 333-7783 661-0147
LIS
763 FOX TROT WAY, CAMANO ISLAND HOSTED BY: KRISTEN TUTTLE
LIKE NEW...Very nice 3 BD, 2 FULL BA home walking distance to downtown La Conner. Over 1,300 SF of updated interior and heating system. Development offers a clubhouse and sidewalks with common ground. $175,000 #1092548 Tim Reichert Ron Wortham Mary Jo Reitsma Travis Lohman
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391-5587 661-1500 770-6013 661-4533
CAMANO ISLAND...3 BD, 2.75 BA home with nice open floor plan, daylight basement, & large deck to enjoy the stunning views of Bay and Mt. Rainier. At just over 2,200 SF this home is a MUST SEE in person! $449,900 #1089783 Tod LeHecka Jan Scally Dale Owenby
333-1032 421-5160 913-8662
1585061
In print and online
REbECCA ChAmbERlAIn JEAnnInE REInIG 360.421.5021 360.724-8555
Camano Island prime location! Escape to PRIVATE fully landscaped/fenced 1.26 acre north-end masterful designed Sundberg home. Generous living space 3 bed/1.75 bath; 3-car garage; 32X12 Flex room above garage. Open living vaulted ceiling with fireplace and 2 decks to enjoy nature. Plenty of room for RV parking/boat. Shared well. Camano Island State Parks/boat launch just 5 miles to water’s edge. 18 hole-golf and shopping. Dungeness crabbing season just a few months away.. what are you waiting for? $420,000 / MLS# 1078230
Now could be the time to
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$420,000
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g n i l l a F s t l u a f e D How lower foreclosure rates affect homeowners, sellers, and buyers
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mericans looking for some closure on the foreclosure crisis that haunted the housing industry over the past few years can take heart from the latest data: the rates of homes in foreclosure have decreased significantly over the past year. Based on numbers recently released by Black Knight Financial Services, the national foreclosure rate dropped by 30 percent in 2016, marking the biggest improvement of any year on record and resulting in a decrease of over 200,000 loans in active foreclosure. Backing up that finding is a recent ATTOM Data Solution report, which revealed that U.S. foreclosure activity fell to a 10year low last year. Overall, that adds up to positive news for the real estate market and for owners, sellers and buyers, too, say the pros. “Historical data over the past decade clearly indicate that, as foreclosure rates decrease, neighborhood blight diminishes, pricing competition from lenders and investors liquidating assets diminishes, and property values and market prices trend upward,” says 4
Greg Stephens, chief appraiser for Detroit-based Metro-West Appraisal Company. Daren Blomquist, senior vice president for ATTOM Data Solutions in Irvine, Calif., says we’re now back to pre-recession levels of foreclosure activity and heading even lower. “A rising tide lifts all boats, and these lower foreclosure rates are helping push home prices and values higher at a faster pace,” he says. That’s good, Blomquist adds, because it means homeowners underwater and facing foreclosure are more likely to have an equity escape hatch in which to sell and avoid foreclosure. “Additionally, it means distressed properties are going to be a hot commodity, since there are so few of them and they’ll attract a lot of attention from bargain hunters,” notes Blomquist. That benefits homeowners living in areas sullied by abandoned properties and homes in foreclosure, as these distressed residences could be owned again soon. “As these markets have stabilized and foreclosed property inventories
have diminished, the markets have been experiencing upward value trending,” says Stephens. “This has helped reduce or eliminate underwater exposure for many homeowners, encouraged continued owneroccupancy, and decreased the liability exposure for homeowners facing foreclosure.” Sellers can reap the benefits, too, says John Warren, CEO of Greenville, S.C.-headquartered Lima One Capital. “Low foreclosure inventory means housing prices climb and sellers are more likely to get their asking price – or even spark a bidding war. Plus, home flippers can make more money off a major construction to their home for sale,” Warren says. “But it does lead to higher costs for buyers.” Blomquist agrees. “This will continue to be a challenging market for buyers to compete in, particularly those constrained more by income and low down payments,” says Blomquist. “Prospective buyers should be cautious in this market to not over-buy and be patient for a deal that makes sense for them.” The silver lining for buyers is that
RE-Weekly.com
fewer foreclosures results in less risk of a decline in property values, including the worth of the home they end up purchasing. One or more foreclosed properties on your street may lower the value of your home and increase crime rates in your neighborhood (abandoned/vacant homes can be targets for thieves and vandals). “Buyers considering investing in neighborhoods no longer blighted by real estate-owned properties will be enjoying price appreciation and a stronger equity position over time,” Stephens says. Because the direction of the foreclosure rate has a direct impact on home equity appreciation, every real estate player should continue to keep tabs on it. “For example, in a more depressed market with a high inventory of foreclosure properties,” Stephens says, “a homeowner who has the ability to postpone selling might want to reconsider putting their property on the market and wait until that inventory diminishes and market pricing recovers.”
March 24, 2017
LAND TITLE AND ESCROW Local Professionals Serving our Community
VISIT RE-WEEKLY.COM TO EASILY SEARCH FOR LOCAL REAL ESTATE LISTINGS! EASY TO USE TOOLS & THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION FOR FINDING LOCAL REAL ESTATE
111 E. George Hopper Rd Burlington Title: 360-707-2158 Escrow: 360-707-2312 1-800-869-7121
ltco.com
3010 Commercial Ave Anacortes 1-800-870-8571 360-299-0565
Trusted Service for over 76 years
1550042
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Charlene Janz 914 15th Street Anacortes
360-630-1151
Outstanding Agents Outstanding Results®
1589447
charlenejanz@nwhomes.net
If your property is currently listed with a Realtor, please disregard this ad. It is not our intention to solicit offerings of other brokers.
March 24, 2017
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www.WindermereSkagit.com
www.AnacortesRealEstate.com
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5324 Cedar Ridge Place, SW $475,000 Custom home with amazing views. 3 beds + office, 2.75 baths, 2,636 SF. Loft area upstairs makes a perfect guest room, play area, and/or crafts room. Over-sized deck and water feature to sit & relax. Raised beds for gardening, plus peach, apple, pear, cherry & plum trees and various berry bushes plus a garden shed on 5+ acres with trail to Samish River. Call Becky Elde, 770-9427 MLS# 1073148
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424 Widnor Dr, MV $199,900 Lovingly cared for home in a quiet cul-de-sac location. This home features 3 beds, 2 full baths, & large open family room, nicely appointed kitchen with island, attached large dining room & a mud room off of the rear deck. A spacious grass back yard, & detached 1 car garage. For more info visit SkagitValleyHomes.com. Shawn & Tiffany Danley 360-298-4857 MLS# 1091175
919 E. Division Street, MV $339,900 A statuesque charmer on the hill with over 2200 SF of living space & 900 SF unfinished basement. This 3 bed, 1 1/2 bath home w/ large bonus room & an office, defines character that is a mix of modern & classic: with built-ins, hardwood floors, tank less water heater, fresh paint. The home is located on a corner lot with alley access & fully fenced yard with fruit trees. Within walking distance to the hospital & downtown & easy access to I-5. Call Dawn Hardman, 540-0058 MLS# 1089800
1318 Talcott St, SW $204,900 Beautiful level 0.87 ac lot located in the city limits with R-5 zoning. The property offers an existing 2 bedroom home currently used as rental with the same tenants for 10 years. Potential development property. Call Linda Eastman, 202-4075 MLS# 1085778
1600 Alpine Crest Loop, MV $354,000 Beautifully finished Eaglemont cond. End unit features territorial & golf course views & large private deck. Beautiful stainless appliances, hardwood flooring, large master suite on main level. This view condo has 1890 SF on main & upper levels - large unfinished lower level waiting for a custom build out - all electrical & plumbing in place for large rec room & 2 additional beds. Call Jim Glackin, 428-2828 MLS# 1039782
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419 Umatilla Dr, La Conner $449,000 Charming Cape Cod features panoramic views of the Skagit Valley & Shelter Bay. Featuring a master on main, 2 additional large bedrooms & a cook’s kitchen, attention to detail throughout. Additional features include wheelchair accessible full bath, library study with built-ins, an upstairs view office space & craft area. Large deck, fully landscaped yard & a 2 car garage. Call Nathan Loeb, 333-7197 MLS# 1092498
16708 Britt Rd, MV 1,100,000 Boxwood Farm is that rare combination of stately home & small acreage farm. Privately situated on fertile Skagit farmland, w/options for agricultural &/or equestrian pursuits. Horse-ready w/paddock, fencing, loafing shed, great barn. 240 SF greenhouse. The lovely, fully-updated Williamsburg Colonial is warm, welcoming & centers on a gourmet kitchen & sunny great room. A gracious home, designed for both comfortable daily living & expansive entertaining options. Call Megan O’Bryan, 708-5817 MLS# 924351
Skagit Valley • 1030 E College Way • Mount Vernon • (360) 424-4901 April Axthelm Balisa Koetje Becky Elde Bette Thompson Bill Krieger Brett Johnson Cory Keihn Dave Patterson
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360-661-4947 360-421-4111 360-770-9427 360-840-5109 360-421-4446 360-661-3825 360-441-1760 360-708-5030
David Mani Dawn Hardman Deborah McNeal Dick Nord Don Neill Donna Rowell Elizabeth Miller
425-319-7091 360-540-0058 360-707-8073 360-661-6529 360-420-4444 360-708-7984 360-420-3607
George Bellos Geri Cole Harry Ota Hollie Del Vecchio Jake Koetje Jamie Yantis Jim Glackin
360-708-9762 360-391-1614 360-708-3500 360-525-5538 360-466-8045 360-540-5264 360-428-2828
Jim Koetje Karen Beckner Karen Peirolo Karine Anderson Leah Hines Linda Eastman Megan O’Bryan
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360-202-2500 360-840-9455 360-348-0480 360-421-1189 360-428-3012 360-202-4075 360-708-5817
14175 Cove Ct, Anacortes
!
New Price!
$599,000
Stately Seaview home on .72 acre. Classic elegance includes living room with vaulted ceilings & formal dining
lovely view of the rolling front yard & distant water view. Spacious master includes sitting area with cozy fireplace, master bath with jetted tub & oversized walk-in closet. Large patio for outdoor enjoyment. 3 car garage. Del Mar membership includes private beach access. Cynthia Aanestad 360.610.0120 15105 N Dewey Beach Dr, Anacortes
$290,500
9187 Marshall Rd, Bow
Or, do you need a tenant but don’t want full-time management? Ask us about our lease only services as well!
www.RentalsWPM.com
Anacortes (360)588-6016 | Mount Vernon (360)428-3012 | Sedro-Woolley (360)503-1939
Tahlia Honea Tasha Zahlis Terri Heyntsen Tessa Jarvis Tiffany Danley Travis Miller Warren Bingham
360-333-5815 360-391-5075 360-391-0938 360-503-1939 360-298-4857 360-420-7291 360-770-2421
March 24, 2017
Bill Robillard Bob Hyde Carla Keel Caroline Baumann Catherine Mers Christine Cleland-McGrath Cheryl Frazier Colleen Craig
March 24, 2017
360-770-4707 360-661-0756 360-770-0743 360-202-7327 360-982-6831 360-708-0267 360-202-4789 360-770-9638
New Price!
$415,000
Anacortes for under $300,000!!! Large kitchen
Samish Island. Contemporary beach home w/total
with views of Mt Erie. Lots of open space inside
sensitivity to ‘green products’ & rich finishes, 2,700 SF
Main level living, Spacious master suite and hardwood
and out. Storage, storage, storage. Blocks from
main living area w/semi-attached guest home. Fire-lit
floors throughout LR, dining & kitchen. Lower level offers
community beach. Home within minutes of
great room concept w/open living-dining-kitchen, wall
new gas frplc, family room, 2 bdrms & laundry/storage.
Campbell & Pass Lakes and Deception Pass
of windows that looks to the water. Stunning grounds w/
Mature landscaping gives a sense of privacy inside &
Bridge.
native landscaping & commanding views of the Salish
out on your choice of 2 decks. Great outdoor space to
Donna Cunningham 770.293.8008
Sea & deep water Bay. 100’ private beach w/tidelands &
enjoy entertaining, tend to vegetable garden & fruit trees.
Bob Hyde 360.661.0756
shared tram to beach. Very private 1.6 Ac serene setting.
Wonderful location close to town, schools, parks & trails.
Must see..
Debbie Macy 360.391.2422
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MLS# 1092417
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Leigh Zwicker 360.333.9975 w
Top of the town 2,465 sq ft hm w/ 3 bdrms & 3 bths nestled in a great neighborhood overlooking the city.
4210 Glasgow Wy, Anacortes
MLS# 1079292
MLS# 1084846
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$430,000
Panoramic views of Guemes Channel, Cypress Island, the boating activity plus sunsets that
386 Snoqualmie Pl, La Conner
will awe you. Great room design captures the
Why wait? Live your dreams in the wonderful community
vaulted ceiling and panoramic windows that are
of Shelter Bay in LaConner. This darling one level home
the captivating feature of this home. Key living
on a sunny lot features a large living room/dining area with
4607 Bryce Dr, Anacortes
is on upper/main level w/ large master suite &
oak floors and a cozy propane fireplace to take the chill
Affordable building lot in the desirable Skyline
walk out access to the backyard. Spacious yard
off. There is a large master bedroom with attached 3/4 bath
neighborhood. All utilities are at the street. Skyline
allows potential for expansion of the home or
and a large second bedroom. Disabled access/lift in garage
amenities include Tugboat Park with a beach, Skyline Park
just enjoyment of the outdoors. This is a rare
to kitchen. Installed security system. Low maintenance
with tennis courts, Skyline clubhouse, a beach cabana
opportunity. Bring your ideas to personalize &
yard. Enjoy Community clubhouse, golf, tennis, swimming
for entertaining. This lot is close to Washington Park and
update this home to all it can be.
pool, park, beach & marina. A must see!
Skyline Marina.
Debbie Macy 360.391.2422
360-333-7197 360-941-8999 360-708-8338 360-770-3076 360-488-3858 360-982-0163 360-420-2565 360-708-0634
4109 R Ave, Anacortes
MLS# 1053145
An ‘architectural gem’, high bank waterfront on serene
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Navigating the rental market can be overwhelming. Let Windermere Property Management alleviate your worry. We offer full-service property management with a strong commitment to quality and accuracy.
$1,050,000
4 bedroom, 2 bath home on 1+ acre of land in
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North Cascades • 520 Cook Road • Sedro-Woolley • (360) 856-4901 Nathan Loeb Nicole Ganske Rita Ingram Sarah Minton Shawn Danley Shelby Hagman Shelly Hanson Spencer Roozen
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to ceiling windows provide lots of light and frame the
25473 Morford Ct, SW $649,888 Stunning custom home features 4 beds, 3.5 baths, 4,473 SF on 1 acre surrounded by 14 acres of rural reserve. Main level living w/open floor plan, charming kitchen w/pantry, great room, formal dining, & spacious master suite w/double sided fireplace & 5 pc spa bath. Vaulted ceilings, white oak floors, granite, stainless appliances & maple cabinets. Theater room, bonus room, gym, & wet bar. Wrap around. 3 car garage/RV prk. Call Nicole Ganske, 941-8999 MLS# 1063718 9674 Samish Island Rd $699,990 Incredible property! 157 ft of medium bank waterfront. Almost an acre & it includes a darling duplex. Each unit is 1 bed, 1 bath. They have a nice shared laundry room with storage for each unit. Views from the property are amazing. Call Sarah Minton, 770-3076 MLS# 804056
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area. Roomy kitchen adjoins comfy family room. Floor
19589 Kelleher Rd, Burl $490,500 Real country living close to everything! Lovingly restored 4 bed, 1.75 bath, 1900 SF farmhouse on 35+ acres. Large barn, extra outbuildings, pasture, hayfield, fruit trees in a tranquil setting with gorgeous territorial views. Home features upstairs master with sitting room, hardwood floors, solid wood doors, & wood wrapped windows. Unfinished 1100+ SF basement with canning room & exterior access could be used for shop space, hobbies, etc. Call Jamie Yantis, 540-5264 MLS# 1086445
6268 State Route 20, ANA $750,000 Peaceful 17.5 acres in highly desirable location w/opportunities for beautiful mountain & water views. Large 2400 SF shop w/230 volt electrical service & 1440 SF covered storage area perfect for RV & more. Concrete driveway winds thru the beautifully timbered property. Well installed on property. Campbell Lake views. Call April Axthelm, 661-4947 MLS# 1066676 644 Brookstone St, MV $324,985 Nicest home in Skagit Highlands! Hand-scraped laminate floors, granite counters, stainless appliances, stacked stone fireplace, patio w/custom cover, AC, Smart TV syst. Immaculate 4 bed, 2.5 bath home. Open living area. Master suite w/walk-in closet & spa bath w/dbl vanity. Fenced yard. Attached 2 car garage. Call Spencer Roozen, 708-0634 or Megan O’Bryan, 708-5817 MLS# 1091450
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MLS# 1090022
Rebecca Chamberlain 360.421.5021
$219,900
MLS# 1089341
Margi Houghton 360.202.0041
$125,000
MLS# 1090709
Anacortes • 3018 Commercial Ave • Anacortes • (360) 293-8008 Cynthia Aanestad Debbie Macy Donna Cunningham Gina Davis Jack Dixon Jackie Stone Jeannine Reinig Jessica Notaro
360-610-0120 360-391-2422 770-335-7513 360-708-7794 360-941-5000 360-661-2247 360-724-8555 360-202-1441
Joan Handelmann John Prosser Judy Moore Kathy Rogers Kristi Gabrielse Kim Wilson Leigh Zwicker Linda Macy
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360-202-4800 360-202-3891 360-770-3515 360-941-4400 360-420-3119 360-333-2490 360-333-9975 360-708-8284
Margi Houghton Nate Scott Paul Weisz Rebecca Chamberlain Rick Bennett Rob Skelton Sarah Jones Tracy Peterson-Foy
360-202-0041 360-708-2354 360-391-7281 360-421-5021 360-202-2630 360-488-3776 360-333-2783 360-708-1833
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Priced Out? Question:
With rising interest rates and steeper home prices, does it really pay to go house hunting? Aren’t many people now priced out of the market?
Answer:
As a borrower, your goal is to find the cheapest financing you can get, not only because of smaller cost but because less expensive mortgages will allow you to borrow more if you want. It’s true as of this writing that mortgage rates are up relative to, say, last summer. That’s the headline, but the details might surprise a lot of borrowers. Let’s start with perspective. Today’s rates – even if “higher” than rates in the recent past – are ridiculously low. Lawrence Yun, chief economist with the National
Association of Realtors, says mortgage rates in the 1970s “averaged 8.9 percent; in the 1980s, 12.7 percent; in the 1990s, 8.1 percent; and in the first decade of the new century they came in at 6.3 percent. The in-and-around 4 percent rate is only a recent phenomenon from the year 2011 to today.” While perspective is nice, as a borrower you don’t really care how much parents and grandparents may have paid to borrow mortgage money. Your concern is here and now. According to Freddie Mac, the price for a 30year, fixed-rate, prime mortgage was 4.19 percent during the last full week in January. That compares with 3.79 percent a year earlier. If you borrow $125,000 the monthly cost for principal and interest is $581.74 at 3.79 percent versus $610.54 at 4.19 percent. That’s an increase of $28.80 a month or $346 a year. Is such a hike in monthly costs enough to force some borrowers out of the marketplace? For a small number of borrowers, yes. For a lot of people? Probably not. The individuals most likely to be impacted by the rate increase are marginal borrowers that no longer qualify for as much funding as they would like. However, while they may not have as much
Q& A
ASK OUR BROKER By Peter G. Miller
financing power as before, borrowers still have an ability to get financing. At 4.19 percent and with a $581.74 monthly payment for principal and interest, a qualified borrower can get financing for roughly $119,000. The problem going forward is that rates may increase further, thus impacting more borrowers. For instance, NAR predicts that in 2017 “mortgage rates are expected to reach around 4.6 percent.” We’ll see. However, while the Fed effectively sets bank rates it does not control mortgage pricing. Right now the supply of cash is overwhelming – some $50 trillion in cash is said to be available worldwide. It’s entirely possible that the Fed increases bank rates this year while at the same time mortgage costs actually fall – this is largely what we saw during the first half of 2016.
New, furnished, model home.
T • Starting in the low $300’s • Single level detached homes • Maintained yards • 3 beds / 2 bath designs • Granite slab countertops • Several different floor plans • Many energy efficient features
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Contact Rita: (360) 488-3727 or Rita@LandedGentry.com or Jayci: (360) 941-8130 or Jayci@LandedGentry.com Sales office is open Wed-Sun, 12:00-5:00. Directions: I-5 to Mount Vernon; Exit 225, East on Anderson Road to 4 way stop. Proceed straight on LaVenture to E Division St; Right on E Division St to South 48th St
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877.769.8070 LandedGentry.com
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5Tips for a Successful Showing How to make your home even more attractive to prospective buyers
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he goal of a home showing is to have the potential buyer envision him or herself living there, not the current owner says Peggy Patenaude, real estate agent at William Raveis Real Estate, Andover, Mass. “It’s about the potential use of space, not the current use of space.” Patenaude suggests the following five tips for a successful showing: 1. Remove the clutter and depersonalize your residence. Put away any collections or trinkets that can be distracting and make your home feel less spacious. A minimal look gives buyers a chance to use their own imagination. March 24, 2017
2. Evaluate the layout of your space and the furniture you’re using. If a couch or table is too big, for example, it will make the room feel smaller. 3. Assess your home’s color and style carefully. A fresh coat of neutral-colored paint will make a living space appear newer, brighter and bigger. 4. Remember that every space matters. Don’t store an overflow of belongings in the basement or cram stuff into your closet, as buyers will look there, too. 5. Don’t be afraid to seek help. Home staging experts will know where to rent the
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ideal furniture, what needs to be placed in storage and how to see past personal taste to exhibit your space properly to buyers. During the actual showing, be prepared to make yourself and your family scarce. “Home sellers should not be in the house for at least two hours during the showing,” Patenaude says. “And prior to the showing, make sure to get rid of pets and any evidence of pets.” After the prospective buyer leaves, gauge their feedback from your agent, but adopt a thick skin and business-first attitude without getting emotional. 9
1416 ALPINE VIEW PLAcE, EAGLEMOUNT
OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, MARCH 26, 1-4PM
$479,000
17714 KINGFIShER cOVE LANE, BIG LAKE NEW
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OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, MARCH 25, 1-4PM
13813 STATE ROUTE 9, MOUNT VERNON (5 AcRES)
$898,900 Waterfront home with 75 ft of lake frontage with private dock! Custom Spanish Style home w/ sweeping staircase up to luxurious master suite. Kitchen with granite and sub-zero refrigerator; radiant heat; skylights; vaulted ceilings; surround sound; built in vac; rec room and bonus/ storage room. Fantastic views from choice of 3 decks!. Danya Wolf Carla Fischer MLS #1007986 360-708-8294 360-982-0010
$239,000
Beautiful view property, ready for you to build your dream home. PUD water, power and 3 bedroom septic surrounded by a circular driveway or continue on to another wonderful building site - cleared, level, and with spectacular mountain view! New gravel road is partially paved. Good access from Highway 9 for easy driving i n t o property. I-5 minutes a w a y. Watch for Carla Fischer Celia Miller signage. 360-982-0010 360-391-6065
1802 BAKERVIEW cT, MOUNT VERNON
1804 BAKERVIEW cT, MOUNT VERNON 98274
$165,000
Mount Baker view from one of the premier large lots (10972 Sq. Ft.) in beautiful peaceful Eaglemont! 18 hole championship Golf Course & large Clubhouse with full service restaurant and incredible views, plus gym facilities! Builder/Owner will build for you or Elva Hunter bring your own plan! All utilities are in 360-202-3086 and ready for you to build. Complete set of plans for a beautiful home on this lot is negotiable. Builder completed 1806 and 1808 Bakerview Ct. MLS #848246
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John Hunter
360-202-3854
$250,000
Permit-able for in home business. Roomy, 1,700 sq. ft. 3 bedroom, 1 ž bath 1 ½ story home on spacious 1/3 acre lot in convenient location. Updated interior, country kitchen, charm of yesteryear. Easy access to everything! Shopping, schools, bus line and medical. Zoned for possible in-home business. Plenty of parking, including for RV. Nicely fenced back yard with fruit tree and other trees. MLS #1008048
Danya Wolf
360-708-8294 1238 TOLEdO ST, BELLINGhAM NEW
$355,000 LOT 18 TRILLIUM LANE, cONcRETE
$39,000
CE
PRI
Partial bay and city view. 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms. Master bath has walk-in handicap tub and extra vanity, tile floor at bath and kitchen, stainless appliances, dishwasher, range, refrigerator, washer and dryer stay with house. Gas fireplace, Oak floors, 2 large decks, storage building at back of house. Located near schools, event locations and shopping. MLS #1040211
Joan Boudreau 360-391-0746
Lovely future building site requisite on using water catchment system to obtain building permit. Power to the property. Nicely treed level tract of land with open area ready for building in the future. Paved street. Walking distance to Rasar State Park! MLS #1080761
23786 KAMLOOP cT., MOUNT VERNON
Danya Wolf
360-708-8294
$150,000
Large lot in Nookachamp Hills Community. Beautiful country setting overlooks a private lake for you to enjoy. Less than 10 minute drive to the city of Mount Vernon. All utilities are stubbed to the lot. Yolanda Sakuma 360-421-0435 MLS #1059504 Danya Wolf Suzanne Jenkins Brett Tacker Sandy Everett JoAnn Boudreau Celia Miller Donna Kurras Elva Hunter John Hunter Russ Lanker Shirley Bertholf Carla Fischer Yolanda Sakuma Patricia Box
$122,000
EAglEMONT Attractive, large lot in beautiful Eaglemont Golf Course community, close to brand new 20,000+ SF clubhouse, dining and full fitness facilities. Complete plans for a beautiful home on this lot are negotiable. MLS #475295
63 WILLOW LANE, MOUNT VERNON
Exquisite Condo with spectacular views of Eaglemont Golf Course & the Mountains. 3 bedrooms plus den/library, 3 1/2 baths designed for casual/elegant living. Great room with hardwood floors, custom blinds, unique stone fireplace. French doors leading to a large deck with electric sunshade to enjoy the views! Enjoy cooking in your gourmet kitchen while looking across the golf course, granite counters, large island/eating bar, stainless steel appliances, gas stove and wine refrigerator! Large main floor master suite & master bath with separate shower & Jacuzzi tub, wonderful walk-in closet with built ins. Elva Hunter John Hunter MLS #1087943 360-202-3086 360-202-3854
360.708.8294 360.941.2983 360.840.7931 360.202.3706 360.391.0746 360.391.6065 360.770.7596 360.202.3086 360.202.3854 360.708.1117 360.840.1863 360.982.0010 360.421.0435 360.941.9186
3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon
360.424.0300
www.skagittraditionrealty.com 12
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