Real Estate Weekly | June 3, 2016

RE-Weekly.com REAL ESTATE IN SKAGIT, ISLAND AND WHATCOM COUNTIES

INSIDE RE-Weekly This Issue

TOWNHOUSES RISE IN POPULARITY AS AN AFFORDABLE OPTION P. 4

Q & A: ASK OUR BROKER P. 5

3 TIPS TO WIN THE RACE FOR A NEW HOME

OPEN HOUSE: June 12th 2-4pm FEATURE HOME: 107 LUMMI DRIVE, LA CONNER Jackie Stone/ Windermere RE Anacortes Properties

RealEstate weekly

SEE PAGE 5 FOR MORE

$532,000 (360) 661.2247

A supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald and the Anacortes American

P. 89

CLASSIFIEDS P. 1011

JUNE 3 - JUNE 9, 2015

Re-Weekly content sponsored by: Northwest Fine Furnishings

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

8

Townhouses Rise in Popularity as an Affordable Option P. 4 Q & A: Ask Our Broker

New this week…

Long benches & coat trees.

A beautiful “lift-top” coffee table!

3-drawer file cabinet with shelving/storage.

A mini-bar with a wine rack & a place to hang glasses.

New items arrive every few days!

Quality, timeless pieces for your home.

That’s what you’ll find at Northwest Fine Furnishings Mon-Sat 9:30 - 5:30 pm • Sun 11 - 4 pm (360) 424-8455 • www.nwff.com 919 Riverside Drive, Mount Vernon

P. 5

3 Tips to Win the Race for a New Home P. 8-9 Classifieds

P. 10-11

RE-Weekly.com SKAGIT PUBLISHING

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.

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

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

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Territory NW

Go to our website for a quick and easy way to search all listings!

320 S Burlington Blvd • Burlington www.SkagitValleyRealEstate.com (360) 755-9494 • (800) 775-0153

W NE

G TIN LIS

D AN TL N CA VA

Burlington $99,950 Home located in a 55+ neighborhood on leased land.

3 BR, 1.75 BA. Covered porch with mountain views.

Terrific master suite feat. walk-in shower w/seating.

Great kitchen. Shop area in garage. Gardening area.

MLS #952805 Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

Mount Vernon $105,000 Two 1.12 acre fairly flat side by side parcels each sold separately. Views of Big Lake. Water & power at street.

Sewer or septic allowed. No CCR’s! MLS #909750 & MLS #909813 Call Ivana, 770-3550

W NE

Mount Vernon $229,000 2 BR, 1.75 BA rambler. Located in quiet location. Easy commute; minutes from I-5. Outside cellar to store canned goods w/smoker. Maddox Creek runs through the property. Garage w/attached room could be 3rd BR or office. Apple trees & garden spots. MLS #859850 Call Wilma, 661-1631

Wilma Louia Designated Broker/Owner 661-1631

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Charlie & Jeannie Boon 708-9645

Jim Stransky 708-1681

ND LA T N CA VA

G TIN LIS

Kirk Campbell 770-7470

Sedro-Woolley $110,000 Incredible lake & mountain views from this 1-acre parcel. PUD water available. Soil work for septic complete.

Adjacent home & another adjacent 1-acre parcel also for sale: P118050 & P118052. MLS #947454 Call Laura, 441-5099

W NE

Concrete $249,900 Ready to get away from the rat race? 3 BR, 2 BA rambler.

Gas fireplace. Vaulted ceiling & unique details throughout.

Master suite with jetted tub, walk-in closet. Separate living & family rooms. Roomy 8/10ths of an acre is very quiet & private. 3 car attached garage. MLS #952990 Call Debbie, 708-8780

Ron Van Pelt 333-1045

Elizabeth Detillion 708-8800

ND LA T N CA VA

Sedro-Woolley $110,000 Awesome 1-acre parcel w/fantastic lake & mountain views. PUD water available. Soil work for septic complete. Adjacent home & another adjacent 1-acre parcel also for sale: P118050 & P118051. MLS #947407 Call Laura, 441-5099

Sedro-Woolley $185,000 Glenhaven Community. 3 BR, 1 BA. New carpet throughout. Vaulted ceilings in living room. Wood parquet flooring in kitchen & dining. Generous utility room.

Storage building in backyard. Amenities include lakes w/ boat launches, parks, fishing, tennis, swimming pool & clubhouse. MLS #945640 Call Debbie, 708-8780

Bow $549,000 5 BR, 4.5 BA, 2205 SF home. 3.7 acres. Open floor plan.

Updated appliances. 2 car attached garage. Hot tub & swim spa. View of Samish Bay. Some marketable trees MLS #923858 Call Wilma, 661-1631

Mount Vernon $559,000 Spacious 3 story craftsman style home on .98 acre.

Incredible views of lake & mountains. Custom wood & cabinetry work. Granite counters & island; stainless steel appliances. Finished heated basement. MLS #949163 Call Ron, 333-1045

G TIN LIS

Bow $325,000 Edison rambler on 1 acre. 3 BR, 1 BA, 1245 SF. Plenty of room for house addition. Wood F.P. in Liv. Rm. + heat pump. Detached garage and shop w/power. Garden space, fruit trees, a beauty! MLS #951767 Call Charlie, 708-1415 or Jeannie, 708-9645

Ivana Wood 770-3550

D CE DU E R

Mike Welling 540-1341

Debbie Benjamin 708-8780

RE-Weekly.com

Corinne Cartwright 202-2397

Maggie deSouza 610-8413

Ayla Contois 610-1652

Jennifer Baker 220-1526

Willa Gilquist 253-318-6131

Luara Kaestner 441-5099

Traci Erickson Property Manager 755-5555

June 3, 2016

• 55+ Community • Single Level Homes • Maintained Yards • Community Lodge CE PRI

FEATURE HOME FROM COVER: 107 LUMMI DRIVE, LA CONNER

N!

TIO

UC RED

$532,000

Windermere Real Estate/Anacortes 3018 Commercial Ave. Anacortes, WA 360.293.8008 www.AnacortesRealEstate.com

345 Twin Brook Court - MLS 1157623

HOME OF THE WEEK

• Offered at $479,900 - MOVE-IN READY! • 4 beds + den, 3 baths, • Finished 2-car garage • Large finished hobby space • Hardwood floors, granite counters • Landscaped, irrigated & maintained yard • Private daylight rambler • Large wooded buffer lot Contact Rebecca or Mary: 1-877-769-8070 or (360) 661-3689 Sales office is open Wed-Sun, 12:00-5:00. Directions: I-5 to Mt Vernon; Exit 225, Anderson Rd; proceed north on Laventure to E Division St; Right on E Division St to Twin Brooks Dr.

1.877.769.8070 • LandedGentry.com

360.757.6013 800.869.7084

Open House: June 12th 2-4pm

Brown McMillen Real Estate

SEDRO WOOLLEY RAMBLER..updated 1709 SF, 3 Br., 1.75 Ba home. Lg kitchen & living rm, new flooring & paint. Central air, gas furnace. Big lot, fruit trees & rm for RV $224,900 #949250

GARDNERS DELIGHT.. Over an acre of beautiful landscaping surrounds this spacious 2,050 sf. rambler on Samish Island. Large garage/shop, hot tub included.

MLS#945934 $349,500

OPEN HOUSE • SAT. JUNE 4TH, 12-3PM

60 ACRES JUST $89,500!..wooded forest land just 4 miles from Sedro Woolley. Great long term investment. $89,500. #891028 READY TO BUILD..very nice full acre lot with water, driveway & 4 Br septic system installed. Already has approved bldg permit. $204,000. #890316 CUTE & COMFORTABLE..2 Br., Rambler w/gas forced air heat. All appl. stay included vaulted ceiling & attached 2 car garage. $195,000. #941021 VIEWS OF BIG LAKE.. 4 Br., 2.5 Ba. Home in Nookachamp Hills. Formal dining rm., Family room, lg Master. Sprinkler system & dual water tanks. A must see! $439,000. #933400

56 WOODED ACRES… Located across street from Skagit River in Concrete. Beautiful mountain views at a great price! $119,500. #891129

Private 1 acre setting w/spacious home, shop, newer kitchen & wrap around porch. $585,000. #891540

Jodi Dynes Yvonne Brown Galen Kindred Holly Hilts

June 3, 2016

333-7383 840-4375 770-7083 661-5538

Enjoy waterfront living in this beautiful single level home ~ watch the boat traffic from the comfort in your home or relaxing on the deck. Beautifully remodeled with excellent open floor plan with separate area for guests or in-laws with door to outside. Cooks Dream Kitchen & lovely Master Bedroom Suite.

Hot tub & mature landscaping.

Just over the Rainbow Bridge from the charming waterfront town of La Conner. Enjoy Shelter Bay Community marina, golf, swim, tennis, & beach. Moorage available. MLS #948992

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

LAKE CAVANAUGH-NO BANK WATERFRONT... gorgeous views from charming home, beautiful wood floors, wood vaulted ceilings. Spacious kitchen, lg deck, outdoor frpl & your own dock. $725,000. #810568

10515 SAMISH ISLAND RD. BOW HOSTED BY: SHELAH INMAN

Jackie Stone 360.661.2247

Jeff Ingman Shelah Inman Kristen Tuttle Fritz Inman

202-2859 661-0145 708-8392 661-0147

LOTS OF LOTS

ATTENTION BUILDERS..two acres zoned R-2 ready to be developed. Potential for 8 or 9 lot subdivision withutilities in street. Convenient to town. $585,000. #772211 BURLINGTON LOT..zoned general commercial. Perfect site for clinic or any professional use, sewer & water.

Survey & elevations complete. $415,000.

READY TO BUILD..31 Lots in Nookachamp Hills near Big Lake. Water, Sewer, Electric & Nat’l gas to each lot.

Priced from $84,000-$145,000. # 746424 -#746695

Tim Reichert Ron Wortham Mary Jo Reitsma Travis Lohman

RE-Weekly.com

391-5587 661-1500 770-6013 661-4533

GREAT LOCATION!.. Remodeled, stylish 3 Br home.

Beautiful oak floors, vinyl windows,tile bath, cove ceilings,bonus rm, basement w/ shop space & next to park. #941536 $215,000

LOTS OF LOTS

5 ACRE VIEW LOT.. on Bayview Ridge..beautiful westerly views of farmland, islands & bay. Great neighborhood w/established homes,close to I-5. $349,000. #905050 BURLINGTON IN TOWN LOT..bring builder, lot complete w/engineering & 1800 sf plan approved. Convenient to town, schools & I-5. $59,000 FULL ACRE BLDG. LOT..nice view setting near Big Lake with several other new homes nearby. Has approved bldg. Permit & public water available. $127,900. #907256 BIG LAKE AREA..level full acre bldg. site currently in pasture. PUD water & electric available, fronts on paved street. $150,000 #927385

Terri Heyntsen Tod LeHecka Jan Scally David Parsons

391-0938 333-1032 421-5160 391-4008

3

Townhouses Rise in Popularity as an Affordable Option

W

hen it comes to the roof over their heads, most people want the same thing: Aå house of their own.

“Surveys clearly indicate a preference among all age groups for homeownership, and homeownership in single-family homes,” says Robert Dietz, chief economist at the National Association of Home Builders.

But lots of people also need an affordable price tag to be able to buy.

Enter the townhouse. These attached single-family homes account for about 12 percent of all new single-family construction starts, according to the NAHB. The share is expected to rise.

When zoning prohibits a single-family detached home from being constructed on a small lot, townhomes, which average about 12 percent less per square foot, are prevalent, says Tracy Cross of consulting firm Tracy Cross & Associates, Schaumburg, Illinois.

Condominiums are often confused with townhouses, notes Rick Palandri of Academy Mortgage, Bloomingdale, Illinois.

Condos are a form of ownership. “A condominium owner owns from the walls in,” says Palandri, “and the condo association

4

owns everything outside the walls.” A townhouse is a structure with units connected on one or both sides. It might or might not be a condo. “Some townhome owners own the outside and even the lot,” says Palandri.

Mortgage approval is more rigorous for the purchase of a condominium townhouse. The lender scrutinizes the association for financial strength and the building for structural soundness.

Lenders will add any homeowner’s association fee when calculating the monthly debt load of a mortgage applicant, but otherwise financing is similar to that of a single-family home.

Home inspections on a townhome may uncover special issues, however. For example, shared roofs and attic spaces may not have the proper fire barrier, says Randy Sipe, president of the American Society of Home Inspectors. “If the owners are responsible for the roof, it doesn’t do much good to replace one side.”

When needed repairs involve a neighboring unit, it may be necessary to work with the adjoining unit owner to solve the issue.

RE-Weekly.com

June 3, 2016

Does Fast Payback Win? Question: We’ve moved to a small community almost an hour from the nearest mid-sized city. Homes here with 2,000 to 2,500 square feet in great shape routinely sell for $150,000 or less. Our new jobs pay well, we are very disciplined savers and we have no debt. If we buy we likely can pay off the entire mortgage in three years or so. Is that a good strategy?

Answer: Congratulations on your new jobs and the move.

Your situation is surely attractive. However, repaying a new mortgage quickly may not be the best strategy.

If you buy a $150,000 home with 10 percent down there will be a $135,000 mortgage. Given the rates in early May, your interest rate is likely to be around 3.6 percent for 30-year, fixed rate financing. The cost for principal and interest will be $614 per month.

Let’s say that your situation allows you to pay off the mortgage in three years. That’s 36 months. If you pay $3,962 a month – an extra $3,348 per month – you will be able to pay off the entire debt within that time frame.

While a mortgage-free home is not a goal to be ignored, in this case you might want to try a different approach.

If you pay down the mortgage you essentially convert your cash into a low-risk savings account that generates 3.6 percent. However, if you prepay the entire debt you will lose the tax deductions you now get for the mortgage. You also will be unable to make future payments with dollars that are cheaper and cheaper due to the erosion of purchasing power by inflation.

Rather than making huge monthly prepayments, consider these alternate strategies: • Instead of a 30-year loan get 15-year financing.

The rate at this writing is about 2.88 percent, a big discount. The required monthly payment for principal and interest in this case rises to $925.

• Get the 15-year loan and make prepayments. For instance, if you want to repay the debt in 7.5 years, raise your monthly payment to $1,670. That’s a $745

Q&A

ASK OUR BROKER

By Peter G. Miller

monthly increase ($1,670 less $925), meaning you will have both a quicker mortgage payoff plus you can continue to accumulate cash savings.

• Don’t make any prepayments and get a 30-year mortgage. This will allow you to accumulate large savings, hold down monthly mortgage costs and get yearly tax savings. In the future, if you want to rent the property, you will then have a very low cost basis.

The value of cash is represented by more than interest. With cash you can invest in other properties, stock or a business. Plus, if things go wrong – a job loss or other problem – you have a strong cushion to prevent a financial disaster.

While financial discipline is a great attribute, quickly paying down a mortgage in a low-rate environment may not be the best option. For a fuller discussion talk to a local fee-only financial planner.

RE-Weekly.com 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 June 3, 2016

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www.WindermereSkagit.com RESIDENTIAL NE

W

NE

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, JUNE 4TH, 1-3 221 S. Baker St, MV $184,900 Stylish 3 bedroom, 1 bath home walking distance to downtown, Edgewater and Lyon’s Parks & more.

Updated kitchen & bath, laminate flooring & new carpet. Large bedroom on the main level with 2 additional upstairs. 500 SF unfinished basement with shop space provides great storage or hobby space.

Call Jamie Yantis, 540-5264 MLS#945268

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16464 Britt Rd, MV $219,900 This charming home has been lovingly cared for & it shows. Inside there is a spacious kitchen with breakfast nook, 2 good sized bedrooms, updated bathroom, & loads of storage. Out back sit on the deck & take in the sights & sounds of this peaceful near 1 acre lot. The home is privately situated at the end of a long drive surrounded by private farmland. SkagitValleyHomes.com.

Bill & Jannette Krieger 421-4446/ Shawn & Tiffany Danley 360-298-4857 MLS#949419 1210 Hawthorne Pl, MV $259,999 Meticulous home located on a large cul-de-sac lot w/ garden beds, lush fenced grass backyard & loads of space. Light filled family room & eat in kitchen with wrap around windows; new fridge, micro & freezer included. A guest powder room. Upstairs loft, large master, master bath, & 2 additional bedrooms, bath & laundry. SkagitValleyHomes.com.

Bill & Jannette Krieger 421-4446/ Shawn & Tiffany Danley 360-298-4857 MLS#941782

226 N. 8th Street, MV $273,500 1905 traditional home on MV Hill corner lot w/ vintage details: Built-in bookcases, original Douglas fir floors, 9’ceilings & claw foot tub. Home has been remodeled & features 4 beds, 2 baths, double pane windows, hardiplank siding & new electrical, plumbing, & insulation. Gorgeous kitchen w/SS appliances, birch cabinets, & H/W floors. Fully fenced yard w/10X12 cedar shed.

Call Karen Beckner, 840-9455 MLS#941745 21547 Wylie Rd, MV $340,000 Spacious home w/acreage on beautiful Fir Island.

Over 2700 SF, 3+ beds, 2 baths, home is perfect for privacy. Newer vinyl siding, brand new carpets, remodeled bathroom, updated electrical, some updated windows, fresh paint, & more. Fireplace downstairs. Outside, enjoy the yard, gardens, & outbuilding. Large deck perfect for entertaining.

Call Cory Kiehn, 360-441-1760 MLS#939433 NE

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY JUNE 5TH, 12-2 4220 Lupine Dr, MV $748,000 Gorgeous & immaculate, this showcase home is located in an upscale neighborhood convenient to amenities & an easy commute. High-end remodel.

2 master suites, including an 1,100 SF sanctuary w/ impressive Travertine spa bath, walk-in closet & dressing room, private laundry, wet bar, library & office.

True gourmet chef’s kitchen features slab granite, 48-inch commercial gas range, fridge, & Miele coffee system. Beautiful & tranquil outdoor living areas.

Call Megan O’Bryan, 708-5817 MLS#925643

NE

19300 Milltown Rd, MV $799,000 Custom sprawling craftsman estate on private 5 acre Conway country setting back off road. 3600+ SF of high-end finishes; hickory hardwoods, beautiful alder cabinetry & millwork, 60” JennAir range, granite, stone fireplace surrounds, main floor master, den, formal dining, bonus rm w/ private rear stair & 3 spacious beds up. Rear deck perfect for entertaining.

30X48 open shop. SkagitValleyHomes.com.

Bill & Jannette Krieger 421-4446/ Shawn & Tiffany Danley 360-298-4857 MLS#948159 NE

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3713 W. 10th St, ANA $885,000 Unobstructed water view from this well designed home. An elevator to the upper floor, 2 master beds, upstairs guest bedroom is an en suite. The majority of the rooms are on the water side along an expansive wall of French doors. Premium finishes, large patio runs the length of the house for entertaining, & an oversized 2 car garage.

Call Deborah McNeal, 707-8073 MLS#947387

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18589 W. Big Lake Blvd, MV $559,000 Big Lake waterfront home & 36x40 SHOP on over an acre. Spacious home w/3 bedrooms including a main floor master w/private patio. Tile floors thru-out living areas & all 3 baths. Gorgeous views over Big Lake to Mount Baker. Big open kitchen w/ granite tile counters. Tiled deck overlooks lake & nice fire pit. 50’ dock, 70’ waterfront.

Call Megan O’Bryan, 708-5817 or Spencer Roozen, 708-0634 MLS#946816

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6340 Chuckanut Dr, Bow $799,000 Traditional style home & shop on shy 15 acres in desirable Bow. Great floor plan, kitchen w/built-in maple cabinetry, slab granite counters, center island & built-in hutch. Main floor master w/ .75 bath & walk-in closet. 2400 SF shop w/3 bays & 2 lofts for extra storage. Fully fenced area for your critters plus private area for your hot tub to view the stars.

Call Karen Beckner, 840-9455 MLS#949515

Looking for hom

For a free pr WA-CL 713524, OR-ML 5271

Amie Mani | NMLS ID # 404665 | branch manager/M

Windermere Real Estate/Skagit Valley • 1030 East College Way • Mount Vernon • (360) 424-4901 • 1-800-849-7939

April Axthelm Balisa Koetje Becky Elde Bette Thompson Bill Krieger Cory Keihn Dave Patterson

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360-661-4947 360-421-4111 360-770-9427 360-840-5109 360-421-4446 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 360-708-9762 Geri Cole 360-391-1614 Harry Ota 360-708-3500 Hollie Del Vecchio 360-525-5538 Jake Koetje 360-466-8045 Jamie Yantis 360-540-5264 Jannette Krieger 360-708-0233

Amie M Download my smartph

Jim Glackin Jim Koetje Karen Beckner Karen Peirolo Karine Anderson Leah Hines Linda Eastman

RE-Weekly.com

360-428-2828 360-202-2500 360-840-9455 360-503-7196 360-421-1189 360-428-3012 360-202-4075

Megan O’Bryan Nathan Loeb Rita Ingram Sarah Minton Shawn Danley Shelby Hagman Sherry Johansen

360-708-5817 360-333-7197 360-708-8338 360-770-3076 360-488-3858 360-982-0163 360-708-3636

Spencer Roozen Tahlia Honea Tasha Zahlis Tiffany Danley Travis Miller Warren Bingham

360-708-0634 360-333-5815 360-391-5075 360-298-4857 360-420-7291 360-770-2421

June 3, 2016

www.AnacortesRealEstate.com

W NE

W NE

708 41st Pl, Anacortes $364,500 Beautifully updated 2040/sf rambler in great neighborhood. Oak floors in living & dining rooms, lovely gourmet kitchen has tile floors, slab granite, ss appliances, pantry, breakfast bar. Gorgeous master suite w/walk-in-closet, spacious spa bath w/heated floor, dressing area w/granite counter, private access to deck & large hot tub. Huge fam room opens onto 24x24 deck. Enjoy the waterfall & pond; mature, low-maintenance perennial gardens, potting/storage shed.

Debbie Macy 360.391.2422 MLS# 947527 NE

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2016 H Ave, Anacortes $619,000 Privacy & seclusion in town! Custom home, quiet off street location. Main level living, vaulted ceilings, 8’ doors, granite, stainless steel, large pantry. Spacious master suite w/ oversized walk in.

Panoramic views of Baker & new Seahawks Stadium.

Large lower level perfect for additional living unit.

Separate furnace, breaker panel, plumbed for 2nd kitchen & laundry. Fenced yard, RV parking w/ hook up & generator plug in. Loads of storage. Minutes to downtown. Short walk to schools & pool.

Debbie Macy 360.391.2422 MLS#945067

me financing? I’m here to help!

re-approval, please contact:

Mani • 360.428.4626 hone app at: amie.mortgagemapp.com

NEW LAND!

177 Makah, Center Isl $48,000 Have you been dreaming about finding a tiny home on a beautiful island? Now is your chance! This sweet 8x12’ place is almost new and is ready for you to use with IKEA bed, furnishings and fixtures. Fully insulated with 200 amp service and water hookup paid. Room on property for you to build a full size home in the future and have this as a little guest cabin. A 4x8’ shed is handy and available for storing your tools, crab pots, fishing poles or bicycles.

Docks, airstrip, clubhouse and caretaker.

Sarah Jones 360.333.2783 MLS# 948661 NE

3804 Marine Heights Wy, Anacortes $385,000 Embrace the light & beauty of the sparkling waters, San Juan Islands & dynamic boat traffic from this easy-to-build 25,000+ sq. ft. view lot in the private Castilleja Bluff neighborhood. This small community of high-end custom view homes is positioned to appear as if nature itself had nestled them amongst the natural surrounding landscape. Poised against a lush backdrop of protected (ACFL) forestland on two sides, this home site offers the rare combination of privacy & views. Ready to build.

Colleen Craig 360.770.9638 MLS# 944613 NE

6393 Mtn View Ln, Anacortes $225,000 Campbell Lake waterfront with access off Lunz Road. Enjoy great sunshine for get togethers, fishing, swimming and boating. Lot certification PL_00_0306 file 2005.

Linda Macy 360.708.8284 MLS# 943819

Mortgage Consultant | WMS Series LLC/Skagit Valley

1317 32nd St, Anacortes $425,900 Landed Gentry’s custom designed Padilla floor plan features 4 bedrooms and 2-1/2 baths in a spacious 2,467 sf layout. The main level features a large living room & kitchen that opens to the dining room area. There is also a study, half bath & large laundry room. Upstairs features the master bed & bath, 3 add’l bedrooms, a bathroom & large family room, perfect for movie nights.

Rick Bennett 360.202.2630 MLS# 906323

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1600 5th St #C-125, Anacortes $78,000 Old Town Anchor Cove Marina. 40’ covered slip that will hold a 44’ long boat; 16’ wide, 17’ high; approx.

20’ deep. 120 volt w/30 amp service. Tender storage area, small boat moorage on dock, head pump out cart & wood shop. Recycling for oil fuel & anti freeze. Amenities include laundry room, library & restrooms w/showers; social area includes BBQ’s & crab cooking station. Full perimeter fence & electronic gate for security; Harbor Master lives on site. Close to restaurants & grocery stores.

Kathy Rogers 360.941.4400 MLS# 949431

1315 32nd St, Anacortes $414,900 Landed Gentry’s custom designed Garden floor plan features 3 bedrooms and 2-1/2 baths in 2,256 sf. With the master bedroom on the main level and large 2 car garage, this home is truly one of a kind! From the front porch the house opens to a large, open living space & spacious kitchen, complete with center island & pantry. The second story features 2 add’l bedrooms, bathroom & family room.

Rick Bennett 360.202.2630 MLS# 906311

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY!

2702 Commercial Ave, Anacortes $250,000 This 4 year old business opportunity is a great mom & pop situation. Great location, hundreds of cars passing by each day. In the area of another antique store.

Bill Robillard 360.770.4707 MLS# 948110

19817 Apostolic Wy, Burlington $325,000 19817 (P62339) is approx. 58,000 SF & has 2004 mobile home on it. 19815 (P62336) is approx.

16,600 SF & includes an approx. 1860 SF building used as a church & older mobile which could be used as a classroom. County issued two lot certs. Each parcel is avail. for $175,000 or both for $325,000. End of property is supposed to revert to City of Burlington. Buyer should consult w/city for present & future uses.

Judy Moore 360.770.3515 MLS# 821126 2016 Creekside Ln, Anacortes $330,000 Come and enjoy life in the beautiful in a desired gated community of Creekside Village!

Charming home with a easy living layout. 1569 sq ft, 3 bedrooms and 1 3/4 baths, vaulted ceilings, open floor plan, gas fireplace and 2 private patio areas. Plus lots of natural daylight. Home is meticulously clean and is ready for a new owner.

Gina Davis 360.708.7794 MLS#905754

Windermere Real Estate/Anacortes Properties • 3018 Commercial Ave • Anacortes • (360) 293-8008 • (800) 327-5291 Bill Robillard 360-770-4707 Buzz Ely 360-202-4626 Caroline Baumann 360-202-7327 Catherine Mers 360-982-6831 Christine Cleland-McGrath 360-708-0267 Cheryl Frazier 360-202-4789

June 3, 2016

Colleen Craig Colleen Sargent Cynthia Aanestad Debbie Macy Gina Davis Jack Dixon

360-770-9638 360-202-2155 360-610-0120 360-391-2422 360-708-7794 360-941-5000

Jackie Stone Jessica Notaro Joan Handelmann John Prosser Judy Moore Kathy Rogers

360-661-2247 360-202-1441 360-202-4800 360-202-3891 360-770-3515 360-941-4400

Kristi Gabrielse Leigh Zwicker Linda Macy Lindi Kudlacek Margi Houghton

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360-420-3119 360-333-9975 360-708-8284 713-822-9203 360-202-0041

Nate Scott Paul Weisz Rebecca Chamberlain Rick Bennett

360-708-2354 360-391-7281 360-421-5021 360-202-2630

Rob Skelton Sarah Jones Vicki Cooley

360-488-3776 360-333-2783 206-949-1010

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3 Tips to Win the Race for a New Home In a seller’s market, success in home buying favors the focused, prepared buyer.

T

his year home shopping may feel like hitting a hill at the end of a marathon with a pack of runners closing in on you from behind.

Scraping together a down payment and winning mortgage approval are just the first steps in today’s more rigorous path to ownership.

In March, there were one percent fewer homes on the market than in March 2015, yet sales are higher.

“Inventory is moving more quickly,” says Jonathan Smoke, chief economist at realtor.com.

A one percent decline in houses to choose from may not sound like much, but there’s a larger percentage of higherpriced homes in the mix, so the shortage is more pronounced on the lower price end.

Tight supply of entry-level housing is a lingering effect from the last housing downturn, says Daren Bloomquist of data firm RealtyTrac, Irvine, California. Many owners who otherwise would be selling and moving up are still struggling with big mortgages.

“If a home in the $250,000 to $300,000 range goes on sale in the Dallas/Fort Worth market, we’ll see five to fifteen offers in a two- or three-day period,” says Jim Fite, broker and owner of Century 21 Judge Fite Co., Dallas.

8

Being first may not cinch the deal if better offers roll in quickly. “The greatest struggle for first-time homebuyers is outbidding investors who are paying a premium for real estate,” says Fite.

Not all areas of the country suffer shortages, but supply in many markets mirrors the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

Obviously, though, with homes selling quickly, some buyers have found a way to beat the competition.

1. GET READY, GET SET “Buyers and their agents must be as organized and committed as if they were planning the invasion of Normandy,” says John Pinto, Realty World-John V. Pinto & Associates, San Jose, California.

Agents can set up messages to alert buyers the moment that properties meeting their criteria land on the MLS. Buyers ready to visit the property as soon as sellers allow a tour are able to submit a purchase contract that could be accepted before other contracts come in, Pinto says.

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2. SHOW FINANCIAL STRENGTH Price is key to a winning offer but it’s also important for a buyer to inspire confidence that he’s good for the offered price.

Pre-approval, a written statement from a lender that states that the borrower qualifies for a certain loan amount under the lender’s guidelines, is often insufficient in a competitive market.

A pre-approval letter is not an offer or a commitment to make a loan. Instead, buyers might consider going a step further and submitting all the paperwork required for an actual loan. “It’s called pre-underwriting,” says Gibran Nicholas, chief executive officer of CMPS Institute, an Alpharetta, Georgia organization that certifies bankers and brokers.

“You’ll always have some types of contingencies in a contract, like for the appraisal,” says Pinto. But backing the price offer with a robust lender’s review helps, he agrees.

June 3, 2016

3. PREPARE TO UP YOUR GAME In a seller’s market, the list price is often viewed just as a starting point, says Rob McGarty, Surefield, Seattle.

In fact, many purchase contracts include an escalator clause that indicates that if a competing offer comes in, a buyer is prepared to beat that price up to a specified limit.

Sometimes sellers will set a list price so high, however, that it stays on the market for a couple of weeks.

That’s how Andres Ortiz bought his home in the competitive northern Seattle market. Having carefully studied prices for other homes in the location, Ortiz and his agent had confidence that the price they offered was right in line with the market. “The seller even agreed to make some small repairs,” says McGarty.

June 3, 2016

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CLASSIFIEDS Alpine Ridge Retirement Apartments in MV is accepting applications for 2 Bdrm apts. Income limits apply. 424-9622 for more info.

1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals.

Piazza Realty Property Mgmt., Inc. 360-424-RENT

(7368) www.prpmrentals.com

Commercial space in the Stanwood area for rent or lease. 2,400 sq. ft. total; 1,800 sq. ft. warehouse space, 1,600 sq. ft. office space, additional 1,200 sq. ft. mezzanine. $1,600 a month. Call Corki at (360) 629-4542.

MOUNT VERNON RAMBLER 1100 N. Bel Air Drive

Well maintained 3 bedroom rambler close to schools, shopping and parks. Many updates through out! Gas forced air heat.

Spacious fenced back yard with garden space and large patio. $205,000. Call Jan Scally @ 360.421.5160 to schedule a showing.

Brown McMillen Real Estate.

(360) 757-6013 MLS # 952808.

Open House Sat. 6/4, 11am – 1pm

11195 Sahalie Rd, La Conner, WA 98257 Great 1696 sq.ft. rambler overlooking Swinomish Channel. Bright open floor plan with vaulted ceilings. Built in 1993 and very solid with huge garage with bonus area and unfinished basement/ shop too. Watch the ever changing farmland below and boats in the channel from your brand new deck. Fee simple home.

Community beach access. $319,000 MLS #92754 Laura Bird RE/MAX Valley Homes 360-630-9692

BUILDINGS, INC. TRUSTED LOCAL Construction Roofing Gutters www.spane.com

800-310-2136

Lic#SPANEBI141JD On average, 1 in 6 Americans will get a foodborne illness this year. You can’t see these microbes, but they might be there. Always use a food thermometer to check if meat has reached a safe internal temperature before eating.

10 - June 3, 2016

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WE DELIVER Print + Online + eEdition If you need assistance accessing the online or eEdition, call 1.800.683.3300

Online + eEdition (digital replica of newspaper) access is available at NO EXTRA COST to Skagit Valley Herald Subscribers.

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June 3, 2016 - 11

$1,385,000 4605 BEAVER POND DRIVE EAGLEMONT $639,900 1009 CHIPPEWA ST, MOUNT VERNON

22390 LAKE MCMURRAY SHORES DR, MOUNT VERNON

$379,000

New Price With attention to detail, wonderful home w/spectacular views of Eaglemont Golf Course! French Doors w/slate entry, hardwood & carpet, living w/ Elva Hunter gas fireplace, formal dining. Fabulous 360-202-3086 gourmet kitchen solid granite island, beautiful cabinets, opens to Lg great room w/fireplace & box beam ceiling.

French doors open to Large Deck that spans the entire house, overlooking the golf course. Eaglemont Community w/spectacular clubhouse & restaurant. MLS#815455

Beautiful 2250 sq ft , 3+ bed/3 bath home in desirable location on the hill in Mount Vernon. Home offers spacious open main floor living with French doors to large Danya Wolf covered deck. Upstairs bath features 360-708-8294 jetted tub. Stunning kitchen with SS appliances and granite countertops! Large family room and a den. New furnace in November 2015.Fenced, treed and landscaped 3/10 acre lot. Features 2 car garage and paved gated RV/Boat parking. MLS#940146

13062 GLENWOOD DR, MOUNT VERNON 98273

Lovely Country home, 1.62 Fence acres, pasture, Solar electric fence and Barn,3 bedroom/1.75 bath home w/attached 1 car garage and territorial view. New carpet, new vinyl windows and slider door, Terrific soap stone wood stove plus gas fireplace, updated stainless appliances. Garden has vegetables already! JoAnn Boudreau Aprox. 1400 sf home not far, between Mount Vernon 360-391-0746 and Sedro Woolley. This is not a manufactured home.

Top of the line Timberline modular. MLS# 948941 & #950319

360 FEET OF LAKEFRONT WITH ACREAGE RARE LAKEFRONT ESTATE. Pacific NW gem in gated community on shores of Lk McMurray, a treasure on 5+ac w/rare 360 ft waterfront offers privacy&serenity! Captivating views enhance the RESORT appeal of this energy efficient contemporary Craftsman. Architectural details include soaring ceilings,23 ft stone fireplace, in/outdoor surround sound etc. Dramatic lighting, angles & spaces are hallmarks of this aesthetic 2 story estate. 1100 sf garage/shop. Swim,kayak & fish from private dock in parklike setting. MLS#944409

Celia Miller 360-391-6065

1906 E HIGHLAND, MOUNT VERNON $238,000 4004 APACHE DRIVE, MOUNT VERNON

1030 TINAS COMA DRIVE, BURL HILL $109,900

VIEW! VIEW! VIEW! Awe inspiring views are yours to behold when you build your DREAM Home at top of Burlington Hill! Live the “high life� while still enjoying city amenities and convenience!

Within excellent Burlington School district; close to shopping and I-5 for easy commuting. Danya Wolf All utilities available at street: power, water, sewer and natural gas. MLS#909681 360-708-8294

Nicely constructed home with many added features. Living room offers masonry fireplace. Country Danya Wolf style kitchen. Wonderfully natural, 360-708-8294 peaceful fenced yard with covered patio and separate buildings. RV parking. Home and property is not ready for photos. MLS#942734

$264,000 310 N REED ST, SEDRO-WOOLLEY

630 HAMLIN PLACE , BURLINGTON

Carla Fischer 360-982-0010

Danya Wolf 360-708-8294

Great building site and investment over 1 acre possibly 3+ duplex building lots R7 zoning. Close to town and schools. Paved street.

Elva Hunter MLS#950851 360-202-3086

$329,900

Welcome home! Impeccably maintained, privately situated view home located on edge of cul de sac with extra parking. Slightly formal yet warm and inviting home offers valley view plus view of Mount Baker; tiled entry; lots of natural light, multitude of kitchen cabinetry;granite counter tops;hardwood floors,pull out pantry;tremendous storage space; office/computer/family room/den offers fabulous views plus small loft; spacious Danya Wolf master suite w/vanity and walk-in closet; generous deck;covered patio. MLS#906466 360-708-8294

$169,000 5586 STATE ROUTE 9

Great rambler with nice layout located in cul de sac with easy access to shopping, schools and I-5. Home offers 3 beds/2 baths; Spacious kitchen features pantry and breakfast nook; living room with beautiful gas fireplace and vaulted ceiling; covered porch; patio; 2 car garage.

$269,000

$400,000

Peaceful & serene certainly describe the lovely setting for this solid, well built, 4 bd/2 bath house that has provided a safe and loving home to 7 foster kids. Includes large bonus room, extra finished room, propanepowered radiant, in-floor heat, & certified wood stove w/ plentiful wood on property, 4+ Acres 24x24 shop & 4 covered 12x24 bays (2/RV), fenced pasture & garden area, chicken coop, fruit trees, kids fort, athletic Shirley Bertholf court, & dog run. $25,000 in seller-concessions for upgrades of your choice.

360-840-1863

3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon

360.424.0300

www.skagittraditionrealty.com 12

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June 3, 2016