INSIDE
This Issue
HOA Rules: Help Or Hindrance?
Home buyers: What’s your ideal neighborhood like?
PAGE 4
Q&A
Ask Our Broker
PAGE 6
Adjacent Ugliness
An unsightly house next door can impact your home for sale
page 7
CLASSIFIEDS
page 7
JULY 12-18, 2019
RE-Weekly.com
INSIDE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
7
HOA Rules: Help Or Hindrance?
Home buyers: What’s your ideal neighborhood like?............................P4
STAT
Q&A
Ask Our Broker.......................................................................P6
ADJACENT UGLINESS
An unsightly house next door can impact your home for sale..........................................................................P7
CLASSIFIEDS............................................ P7
Home Sweet Home
RE-Weekly.com
63.7% The number of American families who own their homes Source: Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances
To advertise in RE-Weekly or other Skagit Publishing publications, Call: 360.416.2180 or Email: ads@skagitads.com ©2019 by Skagit Publishing | 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.
BURLINGTON
320 S Burlington Blvd Burlington, WA 98233 (360) 755-9494
Territory NW
www.SkagitValleyRealEstate.com W NE
Sedro-Woolley
$95,000
Mount Vernon
$250,000
Level & wooded 5 acre tract with some marketable timber. Wetland delineation complete, Septic design in for approval. History of good wells in the neighborhood. 15 minutes from Bellingham or Burlington. Convenience to nearby towns but still living rural. MLS# 1479187
Beautiful sweeping views of the sound and the valley below from this 1 acre lot in Saratoga Passage Development! Enjoy time spent watching the valley activities unfold beneath you. Come and see for yourself... the site of your new home. MLS# 1457782
Call ron, 333-1045
Call Charlie, 708-1415 or Jeannie, 708-9645
W NE
G TIN LIS
Sedro-Woolley
$309,950
Well kept rambler in Sedro-Woolley on a cul de sac. Home has open floor plan, including 3 bdrms, 2 full baths & a media room/office, efficient kitchen w/stainless steel appl’s, nice prep area & eating bar. Master bdrm suite is segregated from other bdrms & very spacious. Open liv/dining room combo w/plenty of table space. Add’l amenities include a fully fenced south facing backyard w/patio area, 2 car garage & a fun community playground area. MLS# 1484548
Mount Vernon
$350,000
One of the last building sites on Big lake. Rare Southwest location. Huge new dock for access to your home and water toys. Quiet end of the lake. Lots of wild life. Private. Don’t let this one get away! Own your own piece of paradise! MLS# 1434024
Call ron, 333-1045
Call elizabeth, 708-8800
ICE PR
oPen houSe 7/14 SUNDAY 1:00-3:00PM $420,000
Home in Skyline Community. 4 BR + bonus room, 2.5 baths & shy 2000 sf. Liv rm w/ lots of natural light, vaulted ceiling, wood fireplace. Opens to din rm w/slider to spacious wood deck that extends to side of home. Kitchen w/ SS appls, Corion counters & undermount sink. Lower floor has lg rec room w/free standing gas stove. 2 car gar w/work bench, wired for generator MLS# 1476107
Call Charlie, 360-708-1415 or Jeannie, 360-708-9645
Wilma Louia Designated Broker/Owner 661-1631
2
Charlie & Jeannine Boom 708-9645
Jim Stransky 708-1681
Mount Vernon
$459,900
Directions: From Highway 9 North on Walker Valley Road. Beautiful craftsman in Big Lake area. Terrific layout with tons of natural light. Take this canvas and put your personal design into your new home! Large country kitchen w/updated appliances. Newer 28 x 36 shop has room for all your toys, hobbies or projects. Fantastic location with sunny 2.8 acres to grow, play, or roam! Sit on your covered porch and enjoy. MLS# 1454511
Call elizabeth, 708-8800
Lisa Boon Meyer 420-6608
Kirk Campbell 770-7470
Ron Van Pelt 333-1045
Sedro-Woolley
$575,500
This beautiful home in desirable Sedro-Woolley can be yours. It features granite counter tops and real hardwood floors. Energy efficient all electric home with LED lighting throughout. Nice open floor plan with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths and 2325 sq. ft. of living area. Large master bedroom and bath with walk-in closet. Beautiful covered deck for year round enjoyment, full 7 foot high lighted storage space under home.All this on .77 of an acre lot and just minutes away from freeway and town. MLS# 1466904
Elizabeth Detillion 708-8800
Call JiM, 708-1681
Ivana Wood 770-3550
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Mike Welling 540-1341
Debbie Benjamin 708-8780
Arthur Henrichs 389-7879
Kati Shannon 391-1203
Traci Erickson Property Manager 755-5555
July 12, 2019
1913815
anaCorteS
FEATURED HomE FRom covER:
Commercial Opportunity
Excellent investment opportunity or small campus for your legal services/ professional office. Three buildings—all in very good condition. Currently professional office, hair salon & chiropractic clinic. Long term tenants—no vacancy over owner’s term. City hall, county courthouse, post office, I-5 within blocks of property. Many upgrades including new HVAC.
14934 SUMMERS LANE, MOUNT VERNON
Skagit Tradition Reality 3780 E. college Way mount vernon, WA 360-424-0300 www.skagittraditionrealty.com
$750,000
SHERRY RUDERMAN BUYER’S AGENT 360-540-1552
PATRICIA BOX HOSTESS 360-424-0300
This is HOME! Enjoy the acreage, river front and seclusion in beautiful Skagit Valley. This beautiful home has 3+ bedrooms, 1 3/4 baths, finished basement, wrap around deck, detached garage, shop/barn and so much more. The hard wood floors, built in bookcase and wood stove bring charm to this spectacular home. Pictures cannot do this amazing property justice. Come see for yourself. This is the dream home you have always wanted.
Skagit Golf & CC Condo
Condo with golf course views! In a small, quiet condo association this unit features many upgrades—new appliances, carpeting, interior doors & hardware, granite counters. Parquet flooring, built-ins and ample storage. Two car attached garage—walking distance to club house.
MLS 1479978 | $359,900.00
Open Saturday 1-3
Jim Glackin, Broker 360-428-2828 jglackin@windermere.com
Windermere Real Estate/Skagit Valley
360.757.6013 800.869.7084
1913962
MLS 1450099 | $549,000.00
Muljat Group Brown McMillen
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 OPEN HOUSE 7/13 • 12-4PM
Nicely wooded 4.77-acre property w/330 feet of paved frontage. Located on the idyllic NW side of Camano Island, with wonderful privacy, and only a 10-minute drive to Stanwood. Wonderful place to build your new home! $175,000 #1479371
Wonderful home in nice neighborhood. This 1/3 ac lot has large backyard. Exactly what you have been looking for. 4BD/3BA with newly updated kitchen. New water heater, new furnace, & new vinyl windows. Back deck updated. $445,000 #1486216
422 Klinger Street, Sedro Woolley
Gorgeous home w/marvelous panoramic views of Samish Bay. 4BD/4.5BA, 5 car garage, & gated entry all on just under 1 acre. Gourmet kitchen with granite counters & large island. Spacious living, family & rec room plus large deck to entertain. $1,399,000 #1334827 Kristen Tuttle Yvonne Brown Galen Kindred Holly Hilts
July 12, 2019
708-8392 840-4375 770-7083 661-5538
Enjoy the fantastic views from this large lot on Burlington Hill. Nice level frontage at street. All utilities are available at street, and is convenient to all the amenities of the City of Burlington. Excellent place to build your Dream home! $195,000 #1458039
Jeff Ingman Shelah Inman Jodi Dynes Fritz Inman
202-2859 661-0145 333-7783 661-0147
Tim Reichert Ron Wortham Mary Jo Reitsma Travis Lohman
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First time on market! This nice home features kitchen that flows nicely into living/dining room. New deck in fenced backyard & located in great neighborhood. Three nice size bedrooms - all on the Upper level. $295,000 #1482500
391-5587 661-1500 770-6013 661-4533
Tod LeHecka Jan Scally Dale Owenby Dana Holmes Katie Hilsinger
333-1032 421-5160 913-8662 770-6716 391-3796
3
HOA Rules: Help Or Hindrance?
Home buyers: What’s your ideal neighborhood like? Filled with attractive, well-maintained homes? No RVs or boats in driveways? Quiet, especially before 8 a.m.? Well, lots of other people want those features, which is why 24 percent of the total U.S. housing -- single-family homes, condos and other multiple unit dwellings – is under homeowner association rule, explains Dawn Bauman, of the Community Association Institute (CAI). But, “associations are always viewed as both a blessing and a curse with residents and buyers,” says Cara Ameer, of Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty, Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. That duality is reflected in a recent CAI survey of 1,000 association residents, where some of their chief gripes, like restrictions on parking, were also a contributing factor to positives, like the attractiveness of the neighborhood. Basically, if a rule crimps you, it’s a negative, notes Ameer, who shares that she was frustrated by her own association’s lengthy home improvement review process. Unlike a condominium purchase, single-family buyers typically aren’t required to receive association rules when making an offer, says Ameer, who notes purchase contracts can be made contingent on a rule review. Sharing many common elements, condominium associations by necessity have more and more stringent laws, like a one-dog limit or no holiday lights on balconies. Many condo buyers are hyper-aware of association rules and “ask about them right away,” says Mike McElroy, of Center Coast Realty, Chicago. Moreover, lenders are also going to examine an association before approving a mortgage on a condo, particularly analyzing its financial health, and if any costly repairs are looming. For single-family buyers, lenders consider the association assessment in calculating mortgage affordability. Ironically, one of the positives, found the CAI survey, involved rules themselves, with “everyone know the rules” ranking high. Indeed, says McElroy, “It’s nice to call the management company and say someone is making too much noise, without having to confront them yourself.”
american dream real estate services, inc.
Cathy West Oak Harbor Escrow Manager/LPO 360.679.5055
Christa Canell Freeland Escrow Manager/LPO 360.331.4838
#1446628 • $468,999
Eaglemont Golf Club Mount Vernon’s premier neighborhood! This 2800+sqft 4 bedroom 2.5 bath home offers comfortable living inside & out. On the main floor you’ll find large kitchen open to family room with gas fireplace, living room. Enormous master suite offers a huge master bath, tile soaking tub, and walking closet. Landscaped irrigated grounds features wrap around covered porch, deck and patio over look the huge sport court & add almost 1000 sqft of additional outdoor living.
1913776
“Fulfilling Northwest Family Dreams” Anacortes Office
1202 Commercial Ave Anacortes, WA 360-588-1515 • adrhomes.net
2788 E College Way Mount Vernon, WA 360-416-6500 • adrskagit.com
Like American Dream Real Estate Mount Vernon
4
Mount Vernon Office
www.adrhomes.net
Kari Pittenridge Anacortes Escrow Manager/LPO 360.299.0565
Holly Mathers Island County Title Manager 360.675.2246
Comfortable Living Inside & Out
LAND TITLE AND ESCROW W
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Shelley Miner Burlington Escrow Manager/LPO 360.707.2312
Eldon Brown Skagit County Manager 360.707.2158
Brandi Jensen Stanwood Escrow Manager/LPO 360.629.9737
Katey Von Hagel Marketing Representative 360.707.1076
Service you deserve with people you trust Visit any of our 5 locations in Oak Harbor, Burlington, Freeland, Stanwood and Anacortes
Ltco.com
1898385
July 12, 2019
Residential NE
W
!
OPEN HOUSE – SAtURDAY 7/13 • 9Am tO 12Pm
OPEN HOUSE – FRIDAY 7/12 • 2Pm tO 4Pm
OPEN – SUNDAY 7/14 • 1Pm tO 3Pm
2725 E. Fir St #18, Mt. Vernon $88,000 Beautifully maintained, light, bright and spacious home in superb park location overlooks a large greenbelt area. Home features a newer 8-year-old roof and double paned, vinyl windows. Upgraded kitchen cabinetry and newer wall oven in kitchen. Formal dining room with built-in cabinetry and additional dining area off kitchen that opens to a covered deck yield multiple entertaining options. Master bedroom includes an en-suite full bath with double sinks overlooking a private backyard. Christine Mays 360-298-4431 #1484047
5201 Larrabee Wy, Mt. Vernon $385,000 Rare find! One of only a few 5 bedroom homes in Skagit Highlands. Great design with spacious living & guest bdrm/office on the main. Great kitchen with huge pantry, loads of storage & counter space, open to great-room/dining. Upper level bonus room, gracious master w/huge walk-in & 5pc bath. 3 guest bdrms, full guest bath & laundry up. Fantastic fenced yard offers great privacy and backs to peaceful greenbelt. Enjoy wonderful community parks, one right across the way & walking trails all around. Elizabeth Miller 360-420-3607 Travis Miller 360-420-7291 #1477493
16417 Country Club Dr, Burlington $429,000
OPEN HOUSE – SAtURDAY 7/13 • 1Pm tO 3Pm
OPEN HOUSE – SAtURDAY 7/13 • 1Pm tO 4Pm
OPEN HOUSE - SAtURDAY 7/13 • 12Pm tO 2:30Pm & SUNDAY 7/14 • 1Pm tO 4Pm
OPEN HOUSE - FRIDAY 7/12 • 3Pm tO 5Pm SAtURDAY 7/13 • 12Pm tO 2Pm – SUNDAY 7/14 • 3Pm tO 5Pm
14612 Avon Allen Rd, Mt. Vernon $399,900 There are so many wonderful features in this lovely single story mid century home nestled in the heart of beautiful Skagit Valley. With 2000 square feet of living space this 3 bedroom 2 bath home offers a huge bonus room that would be great for entertaining but also has an amazing covered outdoor patio that would be perfect for PNW BBQ’s and leads into the peaceful private fenced back yard with raised beds. Many new upgrades including newer metal roof. Located close to town with easy 1-5 access.
14153 Cove Ct, Anacortes $579,455 Beautiful and private level entry Ranch style home on a large corner lot! 3 bed/2.50 bath/3car garage. Welcoming large entryway to open vaulted living rm with fireplace and formal dining rm. Lg bonus room off kitchen w/ breakfast nook that opens to inviting private patio(s) for alfresco dining! Master suite with laundry rm, separate from guest bedrooms. Beautifully designed for entertaining with private garden/patio and mature landscaping. Del Mar amenities include beach rights & Boat moorage. Jeannine Reinig 360-724-8555 Tracy Peterson-Foy 360-708-1833 #1480873
325 S 9th St, Mt. Vernon $749,950 A true Home of Distinction, this classic Tudor sits on a private .62 acre parcel, tucked off the street & out of view. This is a home of endless character, where architectural details blend seamlessly with modern updates & inviting spaces. Beautiful great room w/beamed, vaulted ceiling, European tile floors. Magnificent living room boasts floor-to-ceiling custom mill work. Master suite w/sitting area & private bath. French doors access patio, pool, pool house w/ bath, & park-like back yard oasis. Megan O’Bryan 360-708-5817 Spencer Roozen 360-708-0634 #1410182
12542 Gwen Dr #6, Burlington
$359,900
Rare Skagit Golf & Country Club condo within walking distance of the clubhouse! This end unit opens to golf course views from the living area and deck. Unit includes many upgrades: new appliances, carpeting, interior doors & hardware, light fixtures, granite counters and much more. Parquet flooring, built-ins & ample storage. Two car attached garage w/new garage door. A quiet & beautiful home in a small condo development in a premier golf course community. #1481509
Rebecca Chamberlain 360-421-5021
#1481349
Looking for a home w-abounding character AND a place to park your golf cart? Look no further! This home in the Skagit CC is a must see! This spacious rambler has been lovingly updated by owner-designer. Main-level living w-charming spaces include spacious LR, Country Kitchen, Dining w-French Doors to huge deck, Guest BR w-private patio, Master w-updated closet & BA & Family Room. LL has 3rd BR, Full BA, huge craft room & storage area. Low maintenance lush landscaping. Great entertaining spaces. Leigh Zwicker 360-333-9975
#1462392
14912 Channel Dr, La Conner $749,000 Non Tribal Land. Located on the east bank of the Channel, this lovely home is just a moment from the celebrated tulips and charming historic down town La Conner. Enjoy panoramic views of the dynamic waterway, Mt Baker, the stunning Cascade Mt range and westerly sunsets. Delight in the year round parade of yachts while you relax on your wrap around deck; amenities include the use of the deep water boat ramp located steps from the home. Over-sized, nearly 1/2 acre lot is a rare find. Rebecca Chamberlain 360-421-5021 #1463928
1912630
Jim Glackin 360-428-2828
OPEN HOUSE – SUNDAY 7/14 • 10Am tO 1Pm
July 12, 2019
RE-Weekly.com
5
Q&A
Student Debt Question:
We want to apply for a mortgage and we each have student debt. Do lenders treat student debt differently than other forms of debt, such as car loans?
Answer:
I’m tempted to say that debt is debt and it’s something to avoid, but with student debt there are some particulars which make it uniquely unattractive. According to the National Association of Realtors, “student loan debt stands out as a challenge keeping would-be buyers out of the market. Among the 13 percent of buyers who said saving for a down payment was the most difficult part of the buying process, 50 percent reported that student loan debt had inhibited their ability to save for a home purchase or down payment. Twenty-four percent of all buyers indicated that they have student loan debt, at a median of $28,000, and 40 percent of first-time buyers indicated
ASK OUR BROKER By Peter G. Miller
that they have student loan debt at a median of $30,000.” Student loans can become a problem when lenders calculate debt-to-income (DTI) ratios. The big question is which number to use when calculating the monthly cost for student loans. At first this may seem somewhat obvious, just look at the monthly statement. However, with student loans it’s possible to defer monthly payments. There can be forbearance. The result is that lenders might count the monthly payment you’re actually making, the payment shown on credit reports, a percentage of the loan debt (say 1%), or the Income Based Repayment. There’s a lot of student debt. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York reports that in the first quarter of 2019 student debt amounted to $1.49 trillion dollars. That’s up from $660 million 10 years earlier. For mortgage lenders there are limits regarding how much monthly debt can be allowed. A borrower’s debt-
Sandi riley
NORTH PUGET SOUND ASSOCIATION of REALTORS®
770-8670
46608 BAKER LOOP Rd., CONCRETE
$110,000
525 East College Way, Suite J
42 IT # UN
55+
OPEN HOUSE SAT. 1-4:00 KATHY MCCLOUd 360-708-4242
OPEN HOUSE SUN. 1-4:00 CALL SANdI RILEY 360-770-8670
*OASIS AMONG THE TREES, ‘’RETREAT’’ STYLE LIVING & SO AFFORDABLE! *BEAUTIFUL PARK MODEL ON NEARLY 1 ACRE NEAR PARK & RIVER ACCESS *1 BEDROOM, 1 BATH, NICE DECK, CIRCULAR DRIVEWAY, MUST SEE!
*BACK OF PARK CUL DE SAC, W/LONG PRIVATE DRIVE, “MTN. VIEW” *SPACIOUS 1873 SQ. FT. 3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH ‘’TRIPLEWIDE’’ HOME *HUGE 600+ S.F. GARAGE, GAS HEAT, GATED 55+ PARK LIVING @ IT’S BEST!
9080 E. PRESSENTIN DRIVE, CONCRETE
$225,000
12902 WAYWARd WAY, ‘’CLEAR LAKE’’ SEdRO WOOLLEY $759,000
Mount Vernon, WA 98273
Tel. (360) 416-4902
www.npsar.com
$153,500
2610 E. SECTION ST. ‘’LITTLE MTN. ESTATES’’ M.V.
ING LIST NEW
to-income ratio should generally not be more than 43%. If you have a gross monthly household income of $8,000 (income before taxes) then as much as $3,440 may be generally devoted to debts such as housing costs (mortgage principal, mortgage interest, property taxes and property insurance), car loans, student debt, and minimum credit card payments. In practice higher DTI levels are often allowed. In March, HUD announced that mortgage applicants with less than 620 credit scores and DTI ratios above 43% must now be manually underwritten. The reason is to assure that marginal borrowers are fully qualified for financing. HUD says nearly 25% of all FHA forward mortgage transactions in FY2018 involved borrowers with a DTI ratio above 50%. Email your real estate questions for Mr. Miller to peter@ctwfeatures.com.
7404 190TH PLACE NE, ARLINGTON
REALTOR® Charity Golf Tournament Thurs, Aug 15th, 2019 at Skagit Golf & Country Club Register today for the REALTOR® Charity Golf Tournament benefiting Skagit Habitat for Humanity and Friendship House. Gold Sponsor:
Brunch Sponsor:
$585,000
ING
d PEN CALL SANdI RILEY 360-770-8670
BY APPOINTMENT CALL SARA M. 425-268-0981 (LAKE VIEW)
CALL SANdI RILEY 360-770-8670
*PRIVACY W/TALL EVERGREENS & CIRCULAR DRIVEWAY, ‘’PARK LIKE’’ *REMODELED/UPDATED 2 BEDROOM, 1.75 BATH BEAUTY *LG. COVERED DECK, HUGE DOUBLE GARAGE/SHOP, PRICED TO SELL!
*NEW LISTING, GORGEOUS CUSTOM RAMBLER W/LAKE & SUNSET VIEWS! *3 BEDROOMS, LOVELY MASTER SUITE + 2 ‘’ADU” APARTMENTS *LG. 3 CAR GARAGE + SHOP & BARN, 5 ACRES, VIEWS, VIEWS VIEWS!
*VERY PARKLIKE, MOSTLY WOODED 5 ACRES CLOSE TO TOWN, PRIVACY++ *SPACIOUS 4 BEDROOM, 3.5 BATH 2 STORY W/OVER 3200 S.F. *OVERSIZE 3 CAR GARAGE, ‘’IN HOME’’ OFFICE + BONUS ROOM, MUCH MORE!
815 GREENSTREET BOULEVARd, SEdRO WOOLLEY $272,900
SoLd CALL SANdI RILEY 360-770-8670 *TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMAN STYLE 2 BEDROOM, 1 BATH RAMBLER *GAS HEAT, UPDATED KITCHEN, WOOD FLOORS, HUGE R.V. GARAGE *PARKWAY TYPE ‘’BOULEVARD’’, CLOSE TO DOWNTOWN, GREAT LOCATION!
22943 CHERYL dRIVE, SEdRO WOOLLEY
$274,500
727 CASCAdE PALMS COURT, SEdRO WOOLLEY
The tournament is open to the public and all skill levels!
$254,500
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CALL SANdI RILEY 360-770-8670
CALL SANdI RILEY 360-770-8670
*LARGE FENCED SETTING W/HUGE SHOP, CIRCULAR DRIVE, R.V. PARKING *3 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHS, NEW FLOOR COVERINGS, MUCH MORE *EDGE OF TOWN, QUIET AND CONVENIENT TO SHOPPING/SERVICES
*GORGEOUS UPPER/END UNIT W/PRIVATE ELEVATOR + STAIRWAY *2 BIG BEDROOMS, 2 BATHS, NICE FAMILY ROOM, GAS STOVE + GAS FIREPLACE *OPEN KITCHEN/DINING ROOM, ALL APPLIANCES INC., NICE GARAGE
Registration is $125 per person and includes golf cart (guaranteed if registered by August 17th), a registration/brunch, a steak dinner buffet following the tournament, prizes at every hole, and more! Sign up a foursome, or a single! To Register, or for more information, contact the North Puget Sound Assoc of REALTORS® at 360-416-4902.
Mission Statement: The Nor th Puget Sound Association of Realtor s advocates for Realtor s and their clients, and promotes the protection of property rights.
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July 12, 2019
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CLASSIFIEDS
Adjacent Ugliness You’ve prepped your home carefully and priced it right and are ready to put it on the market. But before you list it, there’s one box you forgot to check off: What to do about your next door neighbor’s downright unsightly abode. That’s a problem, say the pros, because an unkempt adjacent property can turn off prospective buyers or force you to lower your asking price. “An ugly home next door can create questions about who the neighbor is and what sort of issues a potential owner may encounter once moved in,” says Matt Miner, co-principal and owner of the Get Happy at Home team of Seattle-located Coldwell Banker Bain. “It creates uncertainty, and buyers may choose to pass on your home for sale because they don’t like unknowns.” From trash piled up in the yard to overgrown grass and weeds to faded exteriors sporting peeling paint, the eyesores can add up fast. Other red flags include beer cans strewn about the grounds, broken or boardedJuly 12, 2019
An unsightly house next door can impact your home for sale up windows, sagging gutters, and pools of stagnant water. “A house with an unideal color, yellow grass, spider webs and junked cars can also certainly deter some buyers and give the impression that the neighborhood isn’t well maintained or has residents that just don’t care. That can cause a substantial perception of declined value for your property, potentially devaluing it by as much as 10 percent,” Andrew Abas, managing director at Carlyle Capital in Irvine, California, says. Keep in mind that some blights are light and not worth fussing over. “Faded paint on the house next door shouldn’t worry you,” says Alexander Lurie, founder of San Franciscoheadquartered The Lurie Group. Additionally, “deferred maintenance that can’t be seen, like a neighboring roof with
a hole in it, probably isn’t a concern,” says Abas. While it’s not your responsibility to fix more visible blemishes, it’s in your best interest to take action — at least with words. “Communication is key. Politely asking your neighbor to mow the lawn or clean up yard trash is totally reasonable. You just need to overcome the potential awkwardness that might ensue,” suggests Ben Mizes, CEO of St. Louis-based Clever Real Estate. The key word here is “politely.” You don’t want to come across as pushy, hostile, disgusted or threatening. Aim to establish a friendly relationship with your block mate. If that doesn’t work, volunteer to do some of the minor work yourself — no strings attached. “If it will help get your home sold, it’s worth it to even
offer a little financial support to your neighbor by promising to pay for some improvements, like lawn or landscape repair,” notes Lurie. Especially if your neighbor balks at these requests, activate plan B: camouflage. “Put up tall shrubs or landscaping to hide their property, which can improve your curb appeal while also curbing the unattractive view,” Mizes recommends. Also, “if there are windows in your home that look out into their not-so-nice yard, try to obscure the view with plantings. Your best bet is it make that unappealing home less visible from all the rooms inside your home for sale,” says Miner. Another smart tactic if the neighbor won’t make the improvement you want? Push the narrative that this is only a temporary issue. “Have your agent and the buyer’s agent emphasize that it’s only a matter of time until that house gets fixed up, since the neighborhood is improving in such an upward trend right now. Note that people in many markets
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Anacortes FSBO Location is nice and close to everything. 2 story, 3 bdrm, 2½ bath, office / den, 2 car garage, 2,016 sq. ft. RV, boat, cottage, etc. Concrete slab with hookup exists. Strandberg custom built in 2003, quality construction on a flat lot with large front yard and spacious fenced back yard. $10,000 credit to do as you wish. New high school, water park, disc golf course, fiber optics and more. $650,000 Serious buyers only 360-708-1182 by appointment only
PUBLISHER'S NOTICE
All rental and real estate for sale advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for the rental or sale of real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD at (206) 220-5170.
HOME FOR SALE IN MOUNT VERNON
4 bed, 2.5 bath, 2 car garage, walking distance for schools, hospital, easy access to 1-5, newly painted, new carpet, best neighborhood in Mount Vernon, very quite. Call 360-421-8828 E-mail jaysandhu55@gmail.com
Alehouse/pub/restaurant, great location in downtown MV, turnkey, ready to open, incl. building, $650,000. Call 360-419-7073.
like yours often fiercely seek out ugly homes they see as great potential to buy, upgrade and sell,” says Mark Cianciulli, agent and cofounder of The CREM Group in Long Beach, California. Prepare, however, for worstcase scenarios. If your home
hasn’t sold in a desired period of time, consider plan C. “If your house isn’t moving, even if you can’t determine if the neighbor’s house is causing the issue or not, a price cut may be warranted,” Abas says.
REAL ESTATE WEEKLY RE-Weekly.com
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4703 BEAVER POND DRIVE S, mOuNT VERNON
$579,000
Eaglemont! Beautiful new home with open conceptliving,kitchen,dining.Mainfloormaster suite & bath w/walk in shower & closet, laundry. Downstairs finished w/2 bedroom & bath, family room. Finishing include custom cabinets, granite, stainless steel appliances, tankless water heater, hardwood floors, deck off the great room to private yard. Be sure to visit Eaglemont golf clubhouse, 18-hole course & restaurant, gym and spectacular views! Elva Hunter 360-202-3086 MLS#: 1457263
19889 CEDARDAlE RD, mOuNT VERNON
$925,000
Unparalleled visibility from I-5, 33+ acres, 18,096 sq ft arena with rubber mulch material, 15 horse stalls, horse shower, people shower, 12 horse shelters in separated pastures with watering system. Farmhouse with 2 bedrooms, 1 3/4 baths, celebration hall, building formerly used as Country Store, another barn with Elva Hunter Carla Fischer hay storage. 360-982-0010 360-202-3086
123 S BAll ST., mOuNT VERNON, WA 98273
$250,000 18 TRIllIum lANE, CONCRETE, WA 98237
$39,000
7358 SKAGIT VIEW DR, CONCRETE
$55,000
44970 KyuquOT TRAIl #2C91, lAKE TyEE, WA 98237
$69,000 3026 HEmlOCK WAy, SEDRO WOOllEy GLe
Ready to build level lot with 3 bedroom septic in place. Power and water on property. Trees provide privacy. Gated boat launch, community beach access, tennis courts, large gazebo and community Carla Fischer Suzanne Jenkins park. MLS# 1363180 360-982-0010 360-941-2983
This clean, room for 6, and well-maintained 5th wheel is the perfect home away from home at Lake Tyee. Enjoy this get-away with partially covered deck and peaceful location while you view Mount Shuksan and territorial views. Storage shed and covered area by fireplace stay on property, as well. Extra parking room for guests. 2C91 is a turn key property and ready for you to enjoy this summer. Remember to bring your floaties for the lake and putters Sherry Ruderman for the mini golf. Thank you for viewing. MLS# 1469841 (360) 540-1552
45246 NESIKA TRAIl #2D41, lAKE TyEE $60,000
45297 KAmOOKS TRAIl #2D21, lAKE TyEE
This 2011 Fleetwood Park Model is ready for your recreational enjoyment. It is a cozy 1 bedroom with loft, full bath and full size appliances. There is a fire pit and plenty of parking. A metal roof is used on the covered deck; spacious for entertaining and barbeque area. The comfort station is conveniently located just 1 lot over and the property is just up the hill from the lake. LakeTyee is a gated recreational community with any 210 days use in a calendar year. Dues are $159/mo. Sherry Ruderman 360-540-1552 MLS# 1425014
45249 NESIKA TRAIl #2D33, lAKE TyEE
the hill from the lake. Comfort station is just a few lots away. There is so much potential for you to make this just the way you want your vacation spot with your trailer, build up to 400sf of decking and you can even enclose up to Beautiful! MLS#: 1451178
Enjoy wonderful Glenhaven Lakes Community amenities; clubhouse, swimming pool, two lakes, neighborhood parks and picnicking when you purchase this great 7,900 sq ft. lot with all utilities. Keep existing manufactured home or imagine a brand-new home here. Ask how this new Lynn Jenssen Danya Wolf home could be yours! 360-708-8294 360-298-6569
$19,000 24072 TRINITy lANE, SEDRO WOOllEy $194,000
Nice corner lot with green space. Fantastic location just up
300sf of the deck for more living space.
NHA
$115,000
VeN
Sherry Ruderman
360-540-1552
A RARE FIND! Almost 17 acres, mostly pasture, out of flood plain. Beautiful 1-acre bldg site, with water/power in street. Soil test, 2004. Designated Open Space Recreational.Inthepast,landhasproducedstrawberries, corn, and, most recently, hay. Rich soil includes lagoon area, used by former Dairy Farm next door. If you are longingforafewacrestotryyourhandathobbyfarming, whether planting crops, grazing beef cattle, or raising Shirley Bertholf horses, etc., this is your golden opportunity! 360-840-1863
$52,000
ING
D PEN
Charming, classic west side Mount Vernon home: 3 bedrooms (one could be a large family room); across from Edgewater Park. Carpeted downstairs; and the beautiful hardwood floors shine upstairs. Kitchen offers a multitude of cabinets and lots of counter space plus an eating area. Small adjunct room off of kitchen. Lovely yard with roses, bushes; and amazing trees! Parking with room for small RV. Danya Wolf MLS# 1471420 360-708-8294
32248 S lymAN FERRy RD, SEDRO WOOllEy
Lovely future building site requisite on using water catchment system to obtain building permit. Currently precluded from using wells in development. Power to 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# 1475444
$560,000 4628 PARKVIEW lANE, EAGlEmONT
Danya Wolf
360-708-8294
$719,000
Beautiful vacation property at LakeTyee. 2016 Cavco Park Model with stackable w/d h/u. Sunny lot with comfort station just one property away. Just up from the lake and easily accessible from the main or back gate. Full size appliances and ready for you to make your very own. Enjoy all the amenities ie. pools, hot tubs, basketball, volleyball, tennis, horse shoes, miniature golf, hiking, fishing and lake. Call now to view your Sherry Ruderman 360-540-1552 new property.
3789 E. DIVISION ST., mOuNT VERNON 10+
Ac r
$650,000
es
fOR vOTing Skagit tradition realty BEST REal ESTaTE OfficE!
Must See to appreciate this log home on 2 acres. Current owner built with many unique stunning details. A variety of old growth woods blend for an amazing aesthetic. Maple counters, pecan floors, cedar beams and Ponderosa Pine ceiling. Entertaining space: Indoor has lots of seating & Outdoor has decks and patio bbq area with adjacent bonus room. Attached 3 car garage with grease/ work pit. Huge 30’ X 60’ shop. Large Carla Fischer Yolanda Sakuma garden space, fruit trees - apple, 360-982-0010 360-421-0435 cherry, pear.
Brand new home in sought after Eaglemont Golf Course Community! Luxury living in this custom 3,315 sq.ft. home, light and bright 4 bedroom 3 1/2 bath. Lg kitchen w/SS appliances, granite counters & island. Great room w/gas fireplace, deck overlooking nature. Main floor living w/master & bath w/jetted tub, shower & walkin closet, utility room. Upstairs w/ 2nd master & bath +2 bedrooms. Additional SF downstairs ready to complete, Elva Hunter AC & tankless water heater. Situated on a quiet peaceful street! MLS# 1405852 360-202-3086
Great 10 acre development property for higher end homes or Planned Unit Development. Amenities include: Public Utility District Water, Cascade Natural Gas, Puget Power (Puget Sound Energy), high speed internet, city garbage pickup and access to city sewer. Beautiful Wooded property with territorial view and open park-like setting. Includes vintage home with basement and detached Danya Wolf garage, and is currently rented. MLS# 1299587 360-708-8294
360.424.0300
3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon
www.skagittraditionrealty.com 1913954
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RE-Weekly.com
July 12, 2019