Real Estate Weekly | February 17, 2012

RealEstate weekly

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE

FEB 17-FEB 23

TWENTY-TWELVE FREE

INSIDE

THIS ISSUE TRENDS:

WHAT HOMEOWNERS WANT PG. 3

WHO’S THE LANDLORD? PG. 4

LENDER ONEON-ONE PG. 6

BUYING:

IS IT SAFE TO INVEST IN REAL ESTATE AGAIN? PG. 7

Q & A: 14836 AVON ALLEN ROAD, MOUNT VERNON Windermere Real Estate 1030 E. College Way Mount Vernon 360.424.4901 • 800.849.7939

Elizabeth Miller www.ElizabethMiller.net Listing Agent (360)420-3607

$420,000

Magnificent sunrise & sunsets encircle this spacious renovated turn-of-the-century home.

All the character & charm you would expect, with coved ceilings, arched doorways, original woodwork & built-ins. Formal living with adjacent parlor, formal dining & breakfast nook. Sparkling country kitchen with pass thru & bar seating. 4 bedrooms & fully accessible basement provides extra living space & utility. Classic historical barn with stalls & paddocks & delightful granary perfect for studio. 1.2 acres surrounded by farmland. MLS#316903

FEATURED ARTICLE: WHO’S THE LANDLORD? From would-be sellers to property-management companies, today’s landlords have many faces. Thinking of renting? Chances are you have an idea — however fuzzy — of the type of place and area you hope to live in. But whether you’re looking for an urban studio (cont. on pg. 4)

ASK OUR BROKER PG. 7

THE BASICS OF HOME WARRANTIES PG. 8

SCHOOLS AND ENVIRONMENT A BIG FACTOR IN HOME PURCHASE PG. 9

CLASSIFIEDS PG. 10-11

YOUR KEY TO REAL ESTATE IN SKAGIT, SNOHOMISH, ISLAND AND WHATCOM COUNTIES goskagit.com/reweekly

A supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald and the Anacortes American

TABLE of CONTENTS

Real Estate Weekly content sponsored by:

Whidbey Island Bank

TRENDS: What Homeowners Want Who’s the Landlord?

Lender One-on-One BUYING: Is it Safe to Invest in Real Estate Again?

Q & A: Ask Our Broker The Basics of Home Warranties Schools and Environment - A big factor in home purchase Classifieds

Pg. 3 Pg. 4 Pg. 6 Pg. 7 Pg. 7 Pg. 8

Pg.

Pg. 9 Pg. 10-11

8

To advertise in

RealEstate weekly

SKAGIT PUBLISHING

or other Skagit Publishing publications, Call 360.416.2180 or E-mail ads@skagitads.com View this publication online at www.goskagit.com/reweekly ©Skagit Publishing LLC 2012 | 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 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.

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

OPEN HOUSE: Sun. Feb. 19th 1-4PM

Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon

$379,000

Spacious home just outside city. Formal living/ dining. 2nd kitchen and oversized master suite.

Large finished lower level, lots of space. Sits on large lot. MLS # 258223 Call Ivana, 770-3550

2

PRI CE RED UC ED

LIS TIN G

PRI CE RED UC ED

$159,000

Fantastic bungalow on Mt Vernon Hill. 2 bd/1 ba. Wainscoting & plate rail frame dining room.

Fenced yard w/ alley access. Detached garage/ storage. Walk to schools, downtown. #304735.

Directions: I-5 Exit 227. E on College Way to Riverside Drive. South/Right on Riverside, East/ Left on Evergreen St. Home on Right.

Call Amber, 969-4030 or Dan 360-348-6655

Wilma Louia Owner 661-1631

NE W

BES TB UY

Debbie Allen 708-8780

Elizabeth Detillion 708-8800

February 17, 2012

Mount Vernon

$142,300

Affordable 2 bedroom. 1.75 bath. 1199 sq. ft. New hardwood flooring and kitchen countertops. Large corner lot with mature landscaping. 1 car carport and 4 small outbuildings. MLS#260435 Call Pete, 708-6500

PRI CE RED UC ED

Bayview

$430,000

Beautiful newer home on shy 5 acres. Bayview area, 3 BR, 2.5 Baths, 2897 SF. Extensive use of Travertine Tile & granite. Master BR on main floor w/ FP. Kit. w/island, eating bar & pantry. 2 car attached gar + Lg 2 bay shop/garage. #160988 Call Charlie, 708-1415, Jeannie, 708-9645

Michelle Mitzel 630-4423

Dan Soria 348-6655

Burlington

$149,900

This beautiful creek front property is ready for your dream home. This level 1+ acre building lot comes with a newly installed septic system.

Drilled well. What are you waiting for?

MLS # 318111 Call Mike, 540-1341

NE W

Conway

LIS TIN G

$529,500

Awesome Location, large open floor plan. 4 bd, 3.5 ba, hardwood and tile flooring. Two bonus rooms/one prewired for theater system. Hardwood and tile flooring. Security system, stamped concrete, large fully finished shop. MLS # 318362 Call Jim, 708-1681

Amber Soria 969-4030

Mike Welling 540-1341

Ron Van Pelt 333-1045

Burlington

$164,000

The Cedars Condo “Stand Alone Home”. 2 bedroom, 1.75 baths. Kitchen with center island.

Slider to patio. 2 car attached garage. 1113 sq. ft. with natural gas forced air heat. MLS#261718 Call Charlie, 708-1415 or Jeannie, 708-9645

Mount Vernon

$349,000

Built in 1994 in the style of the yesteryear. 3 bd/2.5 ba 2185 sq. ft home. This home is adorned with classic dormers, cedar siding, river rock fireplace and solid oak floors/staircase. Large 24 x 38 3 car garage. MLS # 308824 Call Ron, 333-1045

“Highest Overall Satisfaction For Home Sellers and Home Buyers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms” RE/MAX received the highest numerical score among full service real estate firms for home sellers and home buyers in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Home Buyer/Seller StudySM . Study based on 3,861 total evaluations measuring 8 firms and measures opinions of individuals who bought a home between March 2010 and April 2011. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed March-May 2011. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com

Charlie & Jeannie Boon 708-9645

Jim Stransky 708-1681

Ivana Wood 770-3550

Kirk Campbell 770-7470

Pete McDougal Broker 708-6500

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

STAT

tr en ds

What Homeowners Want

buying low

74

A look at what draws buyers to the areas where they buy

Home is where the heart is - and it also ideally is near a bunch of fun stuff, according to a recent survey from Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate.

The survey respondents - 84 percent of the 1,085 respondents currently own a home; 10 percent plan to purchase within three years and said they would place more weight on lifestyle criteria in future home searches, favoring family-friendly neighborhoods and easy accessibility to cultural activities like museums and music venues.

One in five homeowners has either moved or would like to because their neighborhood or community wasn’t ideal for their lifestyle, the survey notes.

Following are the top lifestyle priorities of respondents when searching for their next home:

Percentage the country’s 50 biggest cities in which buying a home is cheaper than renting.

Source: Trulia.com

• Ease of commuting by car, cited by 38 percent of respondents • Access to health and safety services, cited by 34 percent

OPEN HOUSES & SHOWCASES

• Family-friendly neighborhood, cited by 33 percent • Availability of retail stores, cited by 32 percent of respondents • Access to cultural activities, cited by 21 percent of respondents • Public transportation access, cited by 19 percent of respondents • Nightlife and restaurant

Mount Vernon

$179,000 Mount Vernon

$72,000

access, cited by 18 percent of respondents • Access to golf courses, cited by 6 percent of respondents The survey also was the basis of a new “Lifestyle Search” tool on bhgrealestate.com, which enables prospective homebuyers to filter community searches by important lifestyle preferences, such as “family and community” and “arts and recreation.”

goskagit.com/reweekly

Wonderful Stonebridge Villa home features 2 bedrooms, 1 3/4 baths, den, vaulted ceilings in great room, gas fireplace with custom mantle, walk-in closet in master suite, patio off master bedroom & living room. ‘55 & Better’ community features walking trails, clubhouse & secured RV Danya Wolf parking. MLS#318726 360-708-8294

Here is an opportunity to own a very popular & thriving luncheon cafe located inside a retail garden nursery. The Garden Cafe has seen an increase in business each of the Chris Miller 4 years of current ownership. MLS#189350 360-333-1868

360.424.0300 or 360.853.8888

3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon

www.skagittraditionrealty.com

Real Estate Weekly

February 17, 2012

3

Who’s the

Landlord?

From would-be sellers to property-management companies, today’s landlords have many faces Thinking of renting?

Chances are you have an idea — however fuzzy — of the type of place and area you hope to live in.

But whether you’re looking for an urban studio or suburban home, you shouldn’t overlook an important question: How easy will life be under the landlord?

Actually, the term “landlord” is a misnomer in that it conveys that the apartment owner is an individual.

While statistics from the National Multi Housing Council show that 46.9 percent of all rental properties are owned by individuals, with the bulk of

4

February 17, 2012

small (four units and under) buildings individually owned, that leaves the rest of the rentals owned by other entities like public companies, institutional investors, and real estate investment trusts, also known as REITs. Here is a look at how your experience as an apartment hunter and tenant is impacted by the ownership of the rental:

Be Aware of Reluctant Landlords Many thousands of frustrated home sellers

whose homes are languishing on the market and homeowners who can’t afford their mortgage have decided the solution to their problems is to collect rent checks, says Joe Greenblatt, CEO of Sunrise Management in San Diego.

This new rental supply offers more properties, especially single-family homes, to renters. However, these owners may not pay their utility bills, or even their mortgage, adds Greenblatt, risking a foreclosure on the home with you, the tenant, being forced out.

Telltale signs of an owner’s financial stress

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

are disrepairs, notes John Bartlett of the Metropolitan Tenants Organization, based in Chicago. Also, many counties provide searchable online databases that show mortgages, liens and foreclosure actions.

A Familial Feel When you call and the owner answers and meets you at the rental for a showing, you’re dealing with a “mom and pop”operated rental.

“It’s more likely that an individual landlord can be flexible,” notes Christina Aragon of Rent.com. For instance, the owner may listen to an explanation of why your credit is damaged, or extend a lease for a week or two until your plans for moving get firm.

But not all individuals will run their rental like a family operation.

Many use an outside management company to screen tenants, collect rents and handle maintenance, notes Ryan Severino, a senior economist at Reis Inc., a New York firm that analyzes the rental market. Outside management can be a plus in that repairs and complaints are handled professionally, but there’s no guarantee that this is the case.

If the owner doesn’t use a management firm, have a detailed conversation about how maintenance and tasks like watering the landscape are to be handled, suggests Greenblatt.

Now could be the time to

sell a new home and earn a slice of the real estate pie.

R

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

Call 360.416.2180 today!

In print and online

RealEstate

goskagit.com

ads@skagitads.com

Like-Minded Neighbors One trend of the past decade or so, notes Kim Duty of the NMHC, is for firms to own big complexes with amenities, such as coffee shops and fitness rooms, that target a specific demographic, like young urban professionals.

These institutional landlords are likely to have firm policies on everything from the credit score needed to become a tenant to how to move in furniture.

While they lack flexibility, large company owners offer lots of information.

Complexes usually have websites that offer detailed floor plans and information on the availability of units.

Do Your Due Diligence No matter how good a rental looks by day, check it out at night, too, suggests Greenblatt. Only then might you garner an idea of the security and how safe you feel.

When you’re outside the building, he adds, hang around until a few other tenants come out, and ask them what their experience is like.

And, search sites like apartmentratings.com for complaints logged by residents against the management company or owner, Greenblatt adds.

goskagit.com/reweekly

Real Estate Weekly

February 17, 2012

5

Lender One-on-One

It’s a buyer’s market, but the lending environment is still tough.

Here’s how to make your case for a loan

There’s no better feeling than checking off every item from your to-do list.

It’s smart to try to take that same approach to homebuying.

First, you worry about how much home you can afford and whether you’ll even qualify for a mortgage.

Then comes the fun part: going on a house hunt to try and find your dream home.

But the business end of buying took a more serious turn after the credit crisis.

Lenders now are asking borrowers to fully expose their financial life and are tougher on credit and other financial factors before making a loan.

It can be intimidating, especially for first-time buyers. Here’s a look at your to-do list, a step-by-step guide to finessing financing:

Evaluate the Lender

Yes, a lender will scrutinize your financial life. But before that happens, make sure the lender passes your test.

Lenders are in the service business; they should be attentive to your questions, keep you informed about the status of your application and keep the loan on track for a timely closing.

Ask for the name of a loan officer at a lending or banking firm from a real estate agent who sells a lot of homes, suggests David Reed, author of “Decoding the New Mortgage Market” (AMACOM, 2009).

“Good loan officers rely on steady referrals from top agents, and they know that if they mess up a transaction they no longer get that agent’s business,” Reed says.

If you’re already banking with an institution you’re happy with, apply for a mortgage there, suggests Leslie Linfield, executive director of the Institute for Financial Literacy in Portland, Maine.

Applying where you bank often means you don’t have to gather records showing your savings, since the bank has the information, adds Jim Linnane of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage in Chicago.

Before you walk into a lender to apply for a loan, do a little comparison shopping, suggests Barry Zigas, Director of Housing Policy for the Consumer Federation of America. Study mortgage ads in the newspaper, says Zigas, call

6

February 17, 2012

a few firms and ask about their rates on a mortgage of a certain size, and ask about fees.

If you have limited funds for a down payment, you may only qualify for a governmentinsured FHA loan, which only requires a 3.5-percent down payment. Find FHAapproved lenders at www. hud.gov. Moreover, first-time buyers with limited incomes may qualify for mortgages backed by states or localities, says Linfield. Many of these programs are listed on the HUD site.

Get PreApproved

Some real estate agents won’t take you out to look at homes unless you’re “preapproved” for a mortgage of a certain amount and can confidently submit an offer on a home, explains Brian Seibert, president of the Michigan Association of Mortgage Professionals.

Often, a pre-approval is free or available for a minimal fee. A lender will take your financial vitals – credit score, income, savings – and then provide a preliminary idea of the amount you’ll be able to borrow.

Some potential borrowers will be advised that they need to improve their credit standing or other factors before pre-approval. A lender should be able to give some guidance on how to boost your financial profile in order to eventually qualify.

Know the Loan Terms

While pre-approval means that a lender has confidence in your ability to borrow and repay a loan, remember it’s only a preliminary judgment.

Your lender may ask for verification of your income and assets, including documents like your income tax returns, W-2 forms, pay stubs and bank statements.

The pre-approval offer doesn’t stretch out forever; it usually must be renewed after 90 days.

Once you find a home and formally apply for a mortgage, make sure you understand all the papers you sign, Zigas says. You will receive a document outlining all the fees associated with the loan when you close. You may, for example, be charged a fee for an appraisal the lender orders. The fees outlined in this document should closely match what you actually pay at closing.

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

bu yi n g

Is it Safe to Invest in Real Estate Again?

Just a few years back during the real estate boom, flipping homes and investing in residential real estate was all the rage - until the bubble burst and buyers nearly became an endangered species. But new data shows that real estate investors are becoming more active in the market, as evidenced by survey results from online real estate firm Move, Inc. released in late spring.

The survey found that investors will be more active in their local markets and outnumber typical homebuyers by three to one over the next 24 months, and 69 percent of investors say it will be easier to find properties in the near future.

Additionally, 62 percent of investors are paying more attention to home values in their local markets, with only approximately 43 percent indicating it will be harder to find bargains in the next six months. Twenty-seven percent of investor respondents said they’ll purchase a primary residence as a first-time buyer as their first real

can we peek at their price QUESTION: We found a house we like, but it turns out there’s another bidder also looking at it. We don’t want to pay too much. Is there anyway we can see the other bid?

ANSWER: Imagine if the question were turned around.

Would it be OK if the other bidder saw your offer?

There are two ways to handle such situations.

First, don’t get into a bidding war. The odds are that you will overpay. Second, set up a budget.

Given your budget and financial preferences, what is the most you’re prepared to pay for the

goskagit.com/reweekly

property? If the price is above your limit, say thank you and look elsewhere.

estate investment, and nearly half plan to live in their investment property until it’s sold or turned into a rental.

“This survey suggests that many first-time buyers may be looking at investing as a strategy to becoming homeowners,” says Julie Reynolds, vice president of Move, Inc. “It also suggests that the dream of homeownership is alive for millions who are keeping their eye on the future and using their initial home as the first in a series of what may become many investments in real estate.”

“If you plan to live in the house for the long-term, the potential for your home to rise significantly in value after a few years is there,” says Philip Tesoriero, broker/owner of Exceptional Homes Real Estate in Massapequa, N.Y. “If you’re planning to flip, don’t expect to be able to turn it around immediately at a high profit. If you can buy and hold for the long-term, you’re far ahead of the game.”

Q&A

QUESTION: My mortgage payment officially is due on the first of the month, but I can pay as late as the 15th without penalty. My lender keeps calling before the 15th to ask about the money. What are they trying to do?

ANSWER: They’re trying to do two things. First, they want to collect as much money as possible and as quickly as possible to maximize the interest they can earn on overnight deposits. Second, they’re seeking to rewrite the mortgage terms by demanding early payments that are not required.

Mortgages are written in the “lender’s

Real Estate Weekly

Ask Our Broker

By Peter G. Miller

usual form.” That’s a loaded expression that means the lender and the lender’s lawyers get to write all the terms of the mortgage agreement. If the agreement has a “grace” period that allows you to make payments without penalty until the 15th, then that’s the deal.

The next time the lender calls, ask if you owe a late fee or if your credit is being hurt by using the grace period. If the answer is no, then ask them to stop calling.

Be aware that some loans do not have a grace period and that you could face credit dings and fees by paying late. As always, know your lender - and know your loan.

February 17, 2012

7

the Basics of Home Warranties

A home warranty can help protect a buyer’s new investment and offer peace of mind.

Buying a home is arguably one of the largest purchases a person will make. It can also be one of the most stressful. Individuals take quite a financial leap when buying a home. Even after careful consideration of funds and budgeting, it’s easy to become overextended. A home warranty can take some of the bite out of unexpected expenses.

Although home buyers are urged to hire an inspector and check a property and structure from top to bottom before signing on the dotted line, a home inspector cannot foresee everything that may crop up after a person moves into a home.

“When my home inspector reviewed the property he found only minor things that needed attention,” says Jeannine in New Jersey. “After I moved in, we shortly learned that the crawl space had flooding issues that would require a lot of money to fix properly.”

Home warranties can be a smart investment that take some of the financial pressure off of

8

February 17, 2012

new homeowners. They can also be negotiated into the sale terms of the home so that the seller is responsible for providing the warranty to the new buyer.

Home warranties do not negate the need for homeowner’s insurance, but they can add protection against large monetary pay-outs to repair many items around the house. Policies may differ as to specific coverage, but most home warranties will cover major systems of the home, such as heating/cooling, plumbing, electrical, as well as certain appliances.

To decide if a warranty is the right investment, home buyers should consider the following: • Home warranties are only as good as the company backing them. Careful investigation into the trustworthiness of the warranty company and its track record should be completed.

• Read the fine print of the warranty. Learn what exclusions exist, which may not make the warranty practical.

• Keep in mind that the warranty company reserves the right to determine if a repair or replacement is adequate in a claim situation.

• In general, warranty companies work with their own set of contractors. This means a homeowner may not be able to hire his or her own preferred contractors to do work.

• There may be a deductible or a fee charged prior to having a technician assess a repair situation.

• The warranty company may require inspection of the house to be sure items are in good working order before offering a plan.

• If a warranty is offered through a home seller, there may be no negotiation on the coverage or company used.

Home buyers should keep in mind that there are many unforseen expenses that can arise when purchasing a new home. Having some additional protection, such as a home warranty, could mean saving money on out-of-pocket repairs.

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Schools and E n v i r o n me epu nrc hat se

A bi g fa ct or in ho m

There are many factors buyers consider when shopping for a home. From the number of bedrooms to the size of the backyard, prospective buyers have their priorities with what they’re looking for in a home. Parents to young children or couples who are planning to start a family soon should also consider the school system.

Although granite countertops and interior living area may be foremost on the minds of house shoppers, individuals also have to take school districts into consideration when looking at homes, particularly if they’re concerned about giving their children the best education possible. According to research by The Wall Street Journal, buyers are willing to pay more for a property if it is in a good school district. That’s because even if they do not have children, buyers know that a good school district helps a home remain attractive.

Not all schools are created equal, and some rank better in test scores and teacher-to-student ratios than others. These are essential factors to think about when looking at homes. Although real estate agents can offer some basic information about what schools are in the area, legally they may not be able to share opinions on how “good” the schools are or be able to break down the demographics of student populations. It is typically up to

goskagit.com/reweekly

the buyer to do his or her own research.

Because the tax dollars that home owners pay largely go to fund schools and town improvements, it is important to look at the schools. Also, if the home will be a stepping stone to another home in a few years, buyers want to ensure their home has the best chance for resale. Oftentimes, a good school district is a factor future buyers will think about.

There are some web sites that can help prospective buyers look at the schools in the areas they are considering. GreatSchools.net and Education.com are two of the premier sites. They break down test scores, demographics, parent and student reviews and many other things that are vital to getting a picture of the school as a whole.

The sites also use a ranking system from 1 to 10 (10 being the best) to show how the school stands in comparison to others in terms of test scores.

Buyers also may want to make a trip to visit the area they’re considering during school hours. One also may want to set up a brief meeting with the principal to learn more about the ideals of the school and its goals.

It’s also necessary to look at the proximity of the school to the house. Some towns have rules in place regarding busing or walking to school. Students who live within a certain distance from the school may have to find their own transportation to and from school. This is something to mull over.

Families that are interested in a host of extracurricular activities can also evaluate the town or school district based on the sports or other opportunities offered to students.

Be advised that the school closest to a home might not be the one a student will attend. Zoning laws, and not necessarily proximity, often dictate where a student will attend school.

Therefore, it is important to check with the real estate agent or town to ensure the research being done is for the correct school.

Some parents prefer their children go to private school, and many towns and cities have a number of options. In addition to the public schools, agents should be able to point buyers toward the private schools in the area. Some may be able to list tuition costs and acceptance requirements.

Having a picture of the school district in the area buyers are considering will help offer a better idea of the neighborhood and the people around whom they’ll be living.

School districts are important to consider when buying a home, so much so that buyers are willing to pay a little more if it means having a good school in their area.

Real Estate Weekly

February 17, 2012

9

1 bdrm house, downtown st MV, clean, no smoke/small MV 6 PLEX. 211 N. 21 St. Large 1 bdrm, 1 ba, carport, pet ok. $650. 360-445-5308 central laundry, $650/mo.

Anacortes 3 bdrm rambler, $400 dep. 360-424-6974 exceptional and comfortable.

Excellent bargain at $1150. + dep. No smoke/pets. Lawn Northridge – 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba, $1,300/mo., $1,200/dep. No svc provided. 360-770-6800 smoke or pets. 360-770-6273 1 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts Burl., cute, 2 Bdrm, gas heat, 2 x 1 ½ Town homes DW, W/D, attached garage, Covered-Assigned Parking fenced private backyard, Quiet MV townhouse, 2 Garages / Storage Avail. small dog negot., easy to I-5/ bdrm, walk-in closets, 1.5 ba, Complete Appliance Pkgs Hwy 20. S/G pd. $875 + dep. garage, gas heat, W/S/G pd.

Sport Courts / Playgrounds Avail. March 5. 425-486-3349 No smoke/pets. $850. + dep.

Credit chk. 360-770-2803 Pet Friendly Rent to own – MV 3 Bdrm, 2 Call Today! 360-856-4803 ½ Ba, plus large bonus room, 1 bdrm MV. Quiet, safe, 1 large fenced yard with garden level, near hospital. Seniors space, $1,450 per mo. www.skagitsolutions.com welcome. 1011 S. 16th. $690.

360-202-2160 360-652-6560 1ST MO. FREE! 1, 2 & 3 bdrm, MV, near college, onsite laundry, reserved parking. W/S/G pd. Qualify today!

Move in tomorrow! 428-3887 2 bdrm MV, balcony, clean, quiet, W/S/G/basic cable pd. No smoke/pets. Refs. $750 + dep. 360-424-1695

RENTALS

Houses & Apartments.

See our listings at www.skagitrentals.com Remax Property Mgmt.

823 N. 4th, Mount Vernon 360-424-3198 S.W. 3 bdrm., 1 3/4 ba.

All applcs., no smoke/pets. $850/mo. (425)743-2850

2 Bdrm, 315 W. Woodworth, S.W. 3+ BDRM, 1 BA S-W. $700 + dep. W/D hookups, no pets/smoking. Large living, dining rooms; eat-in kitchen; gas furnace.

W/S/G pd. 360-755-1362 Near schools, shopping. No MV, 2 Studio's avail. W/S/G/ smoking or pets. Security fee elect. pd., $485 & $575/mo. $50. $1200 rent, $1000 damPets ok. $300/dep. 336-5979. age. 360-755-9872.

NO HIDDEN FEES! Fairhaven Manor 757-2149 Norris Place 757-3060 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts.

Affordable. Section 8 okay.

DAFFODIL COURT S.W. Newer 2 bdrm, 1 ½ ba, $850. Avail. March 1st. with garage, W/D hookup. W/S/G/basic cable pd. W/D. $850/mo. No pets. Call Mark Call for details. 856-6652 at 360-708-2694.

$650, 2 Bdrm, older house, propane tank, Concrete – 2 bdrm MV, quiet, W/S/G next to high school, 1st and pd., W/D, gas heat, carport, no dogs. $695/mo. 770-4159 last. 360-770-2989 1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals.

Piazza Realty Property Mgmt., Inc. 360-424-RENT (7368) www.prpmrentals.com

MV 6-plex, 427 No. 21st, upstairs, 2 Bdrm, 1 Ba, deck, country kitchen, carport, central laundry, $695/mo. + $500 dep. 360-424-6974 MV 9 plex, 1010 So. 16th, 2 Bdrm, 1 Ba, W/D, garage, woodstove, $775 mo., $500 dep. 360-424-6974

You will have own bedroom and share a bathroom in a non-smoking home. Rent includes access to washer and dryer, shared kitchen, large fenced back yard.

Room could be furnished with futon and dresser for an additional $50 per month. Street parking in front of the house. Nice, well maintained house in Burlington, easy freeway access and bus line. Quiet neighborhood. House does have dogs and cats, so no additional pets please.

You will share utilities. Wifi is available in the house for additional cost. Please call 360-770-2035 for more information and to come see the room.

Big Lake RV Resort: $400/mo. W/S pd. Boat launch, dock 360-422-6206 ANAC. Nice mobile, 3 bdrm, Private RV site, 29681 Hwy 2 ba, yard, gas furnace stor- 20, S-W. $420/mo., water/ age shed $810 928-345-2086 elec./garbage incl. Refs. & background check reqd.

(360) 333-9844

A LOT TO LOVE Fishing, boating, hiking, lakes all around you. Lightly treed lot in Glenhaven $9,500 MLS# 303169 Call Maggie 360-610-8413 Better Homes & Gardens RE Executive MONEYMAKER 5545 Chuckanut Dr.

1998 14X56 LIBERTY 2 br, 1 bath, vinyl siding and windows, comp roof.

Located in a 55 or 0ver park. address 9403 Pierce ln #7, Sedro Woolley, Price $12,000. Call 206-909-2233

REDUCED: Mobile Home in beautiful Park Village, 55+ park, Mount Vernon.

1248 sq. ft. 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba, open floor plan, large bedrooms, storage shed, newer roof and furnace. Many upgrades. $19,650. 360319-4274

Shopping for a new manufactured home but can't afford the price? We have listings for pre-owned and re-possessed manufactured homes in like new condition. We take care of the permits, transport, setup and site work for you.

Call Manufactured Housing Resource at 360-855-2214

Large farmhouse on Fir Is- S.W. Office space, 200 sq. land, $500/mo. + dep. & ft. $200/mo. Midway Rlty, Jud 425-327-0960, 659-3644 share utilities. 360-202-9460 Lg bdrm, kitchen privileges, & cable TV, 1 mi. from college, $350. + $50 dep. Util. Incl.

Female pref'd. 360-424-0894

2 Bdrm, 1 ½ Ba, gas heat, W/D hook-up, garage, $795. Roommate in Burl. $400.

Avail. March 7. 1000-A Ster- Large fenced yard All util. inling St., S.W. 425-773-0573 cl. Internet. 360-755-5403

10 17,17, 2012 10 February February 2012

Looking for roommates to share my 3 Bdrm home in Burlington. There are 2 Bdrms available to rent.

Rent is $400 per month. No lease, just month to month.

Exceptional San Juan view property in Bow, raptor wintering grounds, foodie's delight. 1 - 14 acre lots starting at $89,500.

360-941-9313

Professional, medical, dental office space for lease or sale, 1500 sq. ft., near Island Hospital in Ancortes. (360) 293-6998

2300 Sq. Ft. Commercial Bldg on 17,000 sq. ft corner equipped w/walk-in cooler + refrig + freezer.

Highest/Best Uses: Mini Grocery, Bar or Fast Food, i.e. Pizza. Intersect Bow Hill Rd & Chuckanut Dr. Present Price $265,000 for limited time. Seller might carry small 2nd.

Listed MLS COMM #271737 BRUCE FLANAGAN REAL ESTATE 360-298-4777

PRIME RIVERSIDE DR $319,000 Paved 21,780.00 square feet sales lot with lights,signs and ready to go on busy Riverside Dr. Over 2000 sq ft building with offices, shop, lobby area, bathroom, attic storage area. Large shop door with garage door opener. Upstairs office has view of entire sale lot. Land Use (550) RETAIL/AUTO/TIRES/MARIN ECRAFT/AIRCRAFT & ACCESS. Neighborhood (6R9) AUTO SALES/SERVICE FACILITIES. Reduced Price $319,000.

Contact: Terry Minor Email: terrycm@isomedia.com Phone: 360-428-5040 Website with photos : http://cmrvs.com/cmsale

REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

t d t , c p f )

ZONED COMMERCIAL/ MANUFACTURING

Excellent opportunity to own your own building. Extra high 6000+ s.f. building with clear span at 24' with 16' doors. Price reduced to $325,000. OWNER SAY'S SELL! MLS # 163367 Call Brown McMillen Real Estate for details.

(360) 757-6013

17766 PAMELA ST., MV $387,900

New Mount Vernon Home 2281 S. 19th Street 2000 sq. ft. rambler on 10,000 sq. ft. lot Very quiet, secluded, S. Mount Vernon area 3 bdrm/den, 2 ½ baths Granite countertops, stainless appliances Open floor plan Master suite features soaking tub, double vanities, double shower Close to schools, shopping, easy I-5 access Nearing completion, call builder direct. $325,000 Brokers protected.

Legacy Home Builders Charlie Ash 360-770-7678 www.legacyhb.net

OPEN HOUSE SAT., FEB. 18, 1:00-3:00 South MV custom luxury home on 1/2 acre designed & built with exceptional craftsmanship. Open floor plan perfect for entertaining with gas fireplace, vaulted ceilings, custom built-ins & Kempas hardwood floors.

Den off great room plus gourmet kitchen with cherry cabinets, travertine floors, slab granite counters & Viking appliances.

Master suite with tile counters with 2 sinks, travertine floors & jetted tub.

Call Karen Beckner (360)840-9455 WRE/Skagit Valley

) e

REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Real Estate Weekly

February 17,2012 20112 11 February 17, 11

Brown McMillen Real Estate 360.757.6013 1.800.869.7084 w w w. b r o w n m c m i l l e n . c o m

CAPE COD HOME… Gardener’s delight!, Main Floor w/1 bdrm, liv rm/dining rm w/fir floors, kitchen w/french doors to deck. 2 bdrms up. $169,950. #41566 17 ACRES… JUST 6 MILES FROM Mt Vernon w/public water & wonderful valley & mtn views. $269,500. #311102 PANORAMA SOUND VIEWS… to the North & West. Rare bldg site w/great views of the Islands. A must see property. $325,000. #217273 NEW PARK MODEL HOME… views of Padilla Bay . Covered front porch, blt-in hutch, blinds thruout. Lots of light. 55+ park. $47,500. #61691 HUGE VIEW HOME... 12,574 sf home with 6 Br & 6 Baths on 2 ac. W/spectcular views overlooking Big Lake. $985,000. #251689 A-1 SEDRO-WOOLLEY LOT... affordable, ready to build on. Minutes from IU-5. $49,950. #310437 Phil Hurtig 770-0787 Galen Kindred 770-7083 Shelah Inman 661-0145 Fritz Inman 661-0147 Holly Brown-Hilts 661-5538

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

235 W. Rio Vista Avenue, Burlington

BEAUTIFUL BURLINGTON… 2066 s.f.

2story 3 BR home. Wood flooring, gas fireplace, Bonus room upstairs, oversized garage. Large lot w/patio,fenced back yard. $274,000 PERFECT 10 ACRES… secluded yet only one mile from freeway in Bow Hill area with year round stream & public water. $209,500. #310712 AFFORDABLE HOME… on 1 ac. Home has hardwood floors, updated kitchen, tile counters & foundation. 300 ft of Creek front. No short sale, bank will finance. $159,500. #292338 COUNTRY SETTING… 5 acres with nice westerly views just a few miles from Stanwood exit. $89,500. #309505 ZONED BURLINGTON… general office & misc. services allows many different uses. Check w/city. Put your business here in this great bldg. Over 2000 sf $224,500. #277005

QUALITY CRAFTSMAN... standalone home/condo in great MV area. Vaulted ceiling, gas f/p. Walking trails, club house. Convenient to services. $185,000. #317520 JUST REDUCED… 5 ac parcel. Brl Schools, West of I-5, close to Mt Vernon & Bham. Power & Driveway in. Bldg site, for your home plans. $100,000. #29129150 TOP OF THE WORLD… one of a kind 1 acre lot w/unmatched views of Skagit Valley, Mt Baker & the sound! Well in & septic approved. Access thru locked gate. $695,000. #27181672 TWO HOMES, ONE PRICE!… Shy acre property in lovely setting near Sedro-Woolley w/3Br & 2 Br Homes. $279,500. #2669852 LEVEL 1/2 ACRE... surrounded by pastureland just outside Burlington.

Great spot for new home or Mfg home. $149,500. #309905

Evening Phone Calls Welcome Tod LeHecka Tim Reichert Terri Heyntsen Ron Wortham Jan Scally

www.WindermereSkagit.com

333-1032 391-5587 391-0938 661-1500 421-5160

Jeff Ingman 202-2859 Dick Best 770-1491 Mary Jo Reitsma 770-6013 www.brownmcmillen.com

1100 3RD ST., SDW $121,950 Cute, affordable 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath home. Gas heat & fireplace. Greenhouse, storage shed & corner lot. Close to town.

Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #272362 1068 SINCLAIR WAY, BRL $139,000 Well maintained 1 level condo located in 55+ “The Cedars”.

User friendly kitchen with island & pantry, window coverings, 2 bedrooms with walk-in closets. Call Warren Bingham at 770-2421. #275510

1117 MCLEAN ROAD, MV $189,900 Nostalgic home with many upgrades in west MV. 4 bedrooms, 2790 SF, .24 acre lot. Huge 3 car shop/garage & nice fenced back yard. More photos and info. at SkagitValleyHomes.com.

Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #316510

3710 BROADWAY ST., MV $289,900 Nice hilltop home on just over 2/3 acre. 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2345 sq.ft. family & bonus room & 3 car garage. Sunny fenced back yard & 1/3 acre of private evergreen filled woods. More info & photos at skagitvalleyhomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #277733 8112 EMMANUEL LN, CON $349,000 2 story home on 5 acres of pasture with spectacular mountain views. 3 bedrooms & 2.5 baths. Attached 2 car garage & 36x36 shop/barn with 10x14 & 8x7 doors. Call Alice Hanson at 7708791. #107634 7601 STATE ROUTE 9, SDW $379,000 Spectacular log home on over 3 acres. One-level, 2 bedroom, 2 bath, built-in 2006. Hickory floors, clear-cedar ceiling & fir logs.

Park-like setting. More info & photos at SkagitValleyHomes. com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #272363 22578 S.R. 534, CONWAY $425,000 One of a kind home on 6.2 acres. 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths plus large home office. House sits back from Hwy for privacy. 2 car garage. 18X36 in-ground swimming pool. Call Traci Gilbertson at 333-3479. #213565 6792 F & S GRADE RD., SDW $448,900 Car Collector’s Dream: garage space for 12 cars! Approx.2238 SF, 3 bedrooms, 1.75 baths. Pond, 6+ acres, lower property w/ approx.740’of Samish River frontage. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #90077 3416 LINDSAY PLACE, MV $449,000 Custom Craftsman home. 4000+ sq.ft., with gorgeous master suite & huge kitchen with granite. Outdoor living area on covered deck. Huge finished shop in basement. Call Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #28602

SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.

North Homes Realty Inc. 360.424.2100 • www.century21northhomes.com $329,900

MLS#265957

$269,000

$265,000 MLS#277434 MLS#294946 • Lg bonus rm • 4th bdrm/den

• Private 5 acres • 3 bdrms + den • Shop/Garage • Spacious kitchen

$229,000

MLS#319268

• Immaculate home • Great location • 3 bedrooms • Large deck

• Shy ½ acre • Huge family room • 720 sf shop • Over 2300 sf

SOLD

• Newer 3 bdrm • Granite counter tops

$349,500

• Heated pool • Historic area • Parklike • Beautifully remodeled

$259,300

MLS#278063

• Active adult living • Spacious 2 bdrm • 2 car garage • Immaculate

$264,500

MLS#306633

$325,000

MLS#292252

$152,000

MLS#305982

• Lg island kitchen • River rock fpl • Lg Master • Theater room • 4 bedrooms • Fenced backyard • Close to schools • New listing

• Riverfront retreat • Private 4+ acres • Huge family rm • Garage + shop REAL ESTATE CLASSES $644,500 MLS#232468 STARTING NOW! $189,000 MLS#307534 • Lake views • 11+ acres • Open gourmet kitchen CALL SCOTT 360-540-2121 • 3 large bdrms • Just like new • Over 3100 sf ranch beauty • Lots of pluses • Great location Anita Kohl 961-7795 Cleaver Sanders 941-3482 Dawn Hardman 540-0058 Duane Gish 770-9299 Dominic Pettruzzelli 333-5210 George Herner 840-3743

Jackie Lindeman 770-9080 Jared Storrs 853-6895 Jeff Dowrey 661-2161 Karl Morse 395-5405 Lorie Groth 425-422-7145 Margie Ernst 708-3198

Marlene Deasy 661-6720 Megan Daly 206-383-4407 Mike Newman 708-1419 Noli Goode 630-6527 Paula Margerum 220-0681 Rick Kiesser 770-1195

Sandi Hocking 708-1523 Sandi Riley 770-8670 Sharon Stokes 661-6164 Shaunna Harris 206-715-1623 Traci Cypher 708-9481 Veronica Lopez 420-0696

1220 E. SKAGIT ST, MV $224,900 Vintage Hillcrest 3 bedroom home, remodeled kitchen & bath.

1231 S. 10TH ST., MV $619,000 All newer systems. Charm abounds with wood floors & large Completely restored 1929 home on nearly one acre with picture windows. 2 car garage. Close to Hillcrest Park! Call expansive views of the Skagit River, tulip fields & beyond.

Cindy Sullivan at 941-9443. #318417 Updated kitchen with cherry cabinets & granite counters. Call 2010 SANDALWOOD, MV $230,000 Jim Glackin at 428-2828. #319380 Great rental history duplex sits on large lot. Each unit offers 17311 W. BIG LAKE BLVD., BIG LAKE $619,900 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, washer/dryer, fireplace & 1-car garage.

WATERFRONT ESTATE with 1+ acre on Big Lake. Full view of Lower unit A with a partially fenced yard. Call Sherry Johansen the lake, 3 RV pads with hook-ups. 3 stall dressing building. at 708-3636. #60925 2 decks & 2 docks. 1400+ SF with 2 bedrooms & 2 baths. Call 3905 DOGWOOD PL, MV $270,000 Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #112580 $915,000 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths & approx. 2344 SF located in Eaglemont. 1045 BLACKBERRY LN., CAMANO ISLAND 2430 SF waterfront home. Large lot located at dead end with Kitchen opens to dinning & family area. Master on main, outstanding views of the Olympics, Mt. Baker & Sunsets. 70’ of upstairs bonus room, large deck & 3 car garage. Call Sherry waterfront. New metal roof, trex decking. Call Traci Gilbertson Johansen at 708-3636. #171430 at 333-3479. #164059

STOP! Let us make this easy for you.

Go to WindermereSkagit.com for Photos, Open Houses, and Maps for EVERY listing.

We give you all the details, on every listing, at windermereskagit.com!