Real Estate Weekly | May 4, 2012

RealEstate weekly RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE

MAY 4-MAY 10

TWENTY-TWELVE FREE

INSIDE

THIS ISSUE

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE LOOKIN’ GOOD FOR LANDLORDS PAGE 3

IS IT TIME TO ADD A HALFBATHROOM? PAGE 4

Q&A ASK OUR BROKER PAGE 5

1520 MEADOWLARK LANE, MOUNT VERNON OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 5-6 1PM-4PM

$750,000

Beautiful, spacious, striking, custom home with Frank Lloyd Wright flavor. Many, many custom built ins; with each room a generous size. Three bedrooms, yet two family rooms, a den; each which could provide additional bedrooms. Two natural gas log fireplaces. Lots of light! One room in particular is full of Skagit Tradition Realty windows and light. From this room one steps out onto expansive 3780 E. College Way Mount Vernon, WA 98273 decking with beautiful views of the estate. Perfect for horses (small 360-424-0300 barn). Buyer has option to divide property. MLS#347359 Directions: Listing Agent Danya Wolf 360-708-8294

Buyers Agent Sandy Everett 360-202-3706

www.SkagitTraditionRealty.com

From E. College Way, turn north onto Windsor Drive (College Heights) & turn left (west) at the “y” & continue northwesterly to Meadowlark Lane. Turn right up Meadowlark Lane to end/E. Johnson sign.

SIGNS YOUR ROOF MIGHT BE WEARING DOWN PAGE 6

SIMPLE WAYS TO SOUNDPROOF A HOME PAGE 8

FEATURED ARTICLE: COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE LOOKIN’ GOOD FOR LANDLORDS. Commercial real estate sectors are showing signs of improvement, especially the multifamily housing market. (Continued on page 3)

CLASSIFIEDS PAGE 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

Real Estate Weekly content sponsored by: Whidbey Island Bank

TABLE of CONTENTS Commercial Real Estate Lookin’ Good for Landlords

Pg. 3

Is It Time to Add a Half-Bathroom?

Pg. 4

Q & A: Ask Our Broker

Pg. 5

Pg.

5 Signs Your Roof Might Be Wearing Down Pg. 6

6

Simple Ways to Soundproof a Home

Pg. 8

Classifieds

Pg. 10-11 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,

Mount Vernon - College Way and Urban Ave. Burlington - Burlington Blvd & E. George Hopper Rd. Anacortes - 2202 Commercial Ave. Sedro-Woolley - 339 Ferry Street

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

PRI CE RED UC ED

Burlington

$129,900

Updated 3 bedroom rambler conveniently located near schools and shopping. Freshly painted indoors and out. New carpeting. Large fully fenced backyard with gardening shed. Very nicely landscaped. MLS#335337 Call Wilma, 661-1631

NE W

NE W

Burlington

$129,900

Solid rambler on large lot and great location. New Vinyl windows and partially finished basement.

4 bedrooms and 1 bath. A large detached shop/ garage. Hardwood floors and a great country kitchen. MLS#281231 Call Mike (360) 540-1341

PRI CE RED UC ED

LIS TIN G

Alger Mount Vernon

$290,000

Priced to sell! Rare 6.7 fenced Bayview acres! 3 bd, 2 bath, radiant heat & huge barn/shop with 220. Zoned 2.5 Acre minimum. MLS#350292 Call Ivana, 770-3550

Wilma Louia Owner 661-1631

2

Kirk Campbell 770-7470

May 4, 2012

$324,500

2005 Private Alger Home. 1 Minute From Freeway for Commuters. 2002 Sq. Ft, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath.

Stream running through property. Propane, heat, PUD water, security System. Vaulted ceilings, high tech cable. MLS#257174 Call Jim, 708-1681

Jim Stransky 708-1681

Ivana Wood 770-3550

Sedro-Woolley

$132,000

Lovely 3 bd/1 ½ ba bungalow located in the heart of Sedro-Woolley. Cute picket fence and a lovely sunroom. Has a partial basement w/ 3rd bedroom, and storage area. Great country kitchen.

MLS#161197 Call Ron, 333-1045

Burlington

$159,000

The Cedars Condo “Stand Alone Home”, 2 bedroom, 1.75 baths, Kitchen with center island, Slider to patio, 2 car garage, 1113 sq. ft. with natural gas forced air heat. MLS#261718 Call Charlie, 708-1415, Jeannie, 708-9645

PRI CE RED UC ED

Sedro-Woolley

$459,000

Awesome 3 BR, 2 BA home on 5.5 acres. Gourmet kitchen, open floor plan. Full in-ground pool, hot tub and outdoor kitchen. 38 X 58 shop with bath.

Fenced Acreage with 2 stall barn. Lovely setting, private but not too far out. MLS#232535 Call Debbie, 708-8780

Debbie Allen 708-8780

Michelle Mitzel 630-4423

Elizabeth Detillion 708-8800

LIS TIN G

NE W

Bow

LIS TIN G

$1,100,000

Hobby Farm & Home. Incredible park-like 20 acres w/easterly view on Bow Hill. This property is fully fenced w/plenty of room for livestock.

Marketable Timber. Large Shop w/Outbuildings.

MLS#347951 Call Jim, 708-1681

Charlie & Jeannie Boon 708-9645

Ron Van Pelt 333-1045

Sedro-Woolley

$179,500

This fantastic house is move-in ready on a large fenced lot. RV Parking, with possible MIL unit on lower floor. Beautifully remodeled including new roof, hot water tank and fireplace. Large 500+ sq. ft. deck for entertaining or relaxing. MLS#315835 Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

RE/MAX Property Management If you are looking for someone to manage your rental home or just looking for a home to rent, Call Wilma Louia @ (360)755-5555

Mike Welling 540-1341

Pete McDougall Broker 708-6500

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

“

Vacancy rates are steadily falling. Leasing is on the rise, and rents are showing signs of strengthening, especially in the apartment market where rents are rising the fastest.

”

Commercial Real Estate Lookin’ Good for Landlords

C

ommercial real estate sectors are showing signs of improvement, especially the multifamily housing market.

If you’re a renter, now might be a good time to try to lock in your monthly payment.

According to the National Association of Realtors’ quarterly commercial real estate forecast, all major commercial real estate sectors are showing improvement, especially multifamily housing. This landlord’s market means they can command bigger rents.

“Vacancy rates are steadily falling. Leasing is on the rise, and rents are showing signs of strengthening, especially in the apartment market where rents are rising the fastest,” said Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the NAR. The NAR estimates the apartment rental market is likely to see vacancy rates drop from 4.7 percent in the first quarter of 2012 to 4.5 percent in Q1

goskagit.com/reweekly

2013. Multifamily vacancy rates less than 5 percent generally are considered a landlord’s market, with increased demand justifying higher rents.

The areas with the lowest multifamily vacancy rates currently are New York City, at 1.8 percent; Minneapolis and Portland, Ore., each at 2.5 percent; and San Jose, Calif., at 2.7 percent.

Office and industrial space, however, remains a tenant’s market. Vacancy rates in the office sector, currently at 16.4 percent, are expected to fall to just 16 percent in Q1 2013. After rising 1.6 percent in 2011, office rents are expected to increase another 1.9 percent this year, and 2.4 percent in 2013.

According to the NAR’s recent quarterly Commercial Real Estate Market Survey, 87 percent of participants feel that office/industrial tenants are getting a range of benefits, from moderate concessions to deep rent discounts.

Real Estate Weekly

May 4, 2012

3

Is it time to add a half-bathroom?

W

hen it comes to renovating a home, homeowners expect to spend money. No home renovation or home improvement project is free, but some are less costly than others.

The addition of a half-bathroom is a popular project among homeowners, and it won’t necessarily break the bank. If converting existing floor space into a half-bathroom, such a renovation can cost as little as a few thousand dollars, making the addition of a powder room one of the few home improvement projects where the value added to the home exceeds the cost of the renovation. Before deciding to add a half-bathroom, it helps to consider some of the pros and cons of the project.

The addition of a half-bathroom is a project that often makes practical and financial sense.

4

May 4, 2012

problem in a half-bathroom, homeowners have more options at their disposal when choosing floors and countertops.

Cons

• Space: As their name implies, half-bathrooms are much smaller than full bathrooms. As a result, they tend to feel cramped.

• Value: Though an inexpensive half-bathroom addition might recoup its value and then some at resale, the project won’t add as much resale value to a home as a full bathroom addition might.

• Loss of storage: If storage around the house is sparse, homeowners might be better off keeping the area designated for the halfbathroom as a storage closet instead Pros of a bathroom.

• Convenience: A half-bathroom Once the pros and cons have is often added on the home’s main been weighed, homeowners who floor or in the basement or attic. want to go forward with the project This makes it more convenient for should then check with their local guests to use the restroom during a municipality to ensure the codes dinner party or when coming over and requirements won’t restrict their to watch the big game in a base- project. Size or window restrictions ment home-theater area. might curtail the project or limit what • Problem-free: Half-bathhomeowners can do, which might rooms are smaller because they change their minds on the project don’t have a shower or bathtub. altogether.

The addition of a half-bathroom That means common bathroom often makes practical and financial problems like mold and mildew sense. But before making any addiare not as big a concern as they tion, homeowners must weight the are for full bathrooms. pros and cons to make the best deci• More choices: Because mold and mildew aren’t likely to present a sion possible.

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

sell & lose, or hang on

We don’t know what the future will bring in terms of either home prices or interest rates. What we do know is this: In several years your home will be unaffordable if rates rise above today’s recordlow levels.

Right now you have the opportunity to control your finances by selling. Having bought at the top of the market, you will have a loss.

If you sell you will then need replacement housing, most likely something less costly.

However, there are other choices to consider: • Offset your current monthly costs by renting part of the property to a relative.

Then refinance to a long-term, fixed-rate FHA mortgage.

• Sell an interest in the home – equity share – to an investor and refinance at today’s rates.

QUESTION: I bought a 2-bedroom, 2-bathoom condo in California in 2007. I paid $665,000 with $250,000 down and financed the rest with an interest-only loan to keep monthly costs as low as possible. My 3.25-percent loan expires in five years, and I cannot afford the higher payments because I will then be retired. I believe in the next few years that interest rates will rise but home values will not increase to the levels seen in 2007. Does it make sense to sell now at a loss and then rent at a lower cost and save money, or should I hang on?

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

COUNTRY CLUB RAMBLER… UPDATED kitchen/bath, warm bright colors thru-out, hardwood flrs, gas f/place. Bose sound system & more. $394,000. #313474 BRAND NEW 2012… Legacy Homebuilders just completed beautiful 4 BR Rambler in great Mt. Vernon location. $319,500. #321277 NEAR CITY HALL… Large Office and Warehouse building in great location. Perfect place for your business. $399,500. #318151 VERY PRIVATE 20 ACRES… secluded bldg site, mostly level end of road property. $179,000. #297233 GREAT BUILDING SITE… 17 acres in private setting near Mt Vernon. Already has issued Blgd Permit. $269,500. #311102

READY FOR SUMMER FUN?… low bank waterfront, lg level lot & cute little cabin for total enjoyment. $159,500. #322508 TOP OF THE WORLD… 1 acre lot. Unmatched views of Skagit Valley, Mt Baker &, sound.! Well in,septic approved. Access thru locked gate. $695,000. #27181672 YOU LOOK MARVELOUS!… great floor plan, 4 Br, 3 Ba home with new roof, carpet, paint, a move-in ready dream home. $309,900. #299079 CUTE MT VERNON RAMBLER… 3 BR, 2 BA home in desired Thunderbird neighborhood. Nice lg back yard. $179,900. #324882

POSSIBLE HYDRO SITE… 20 acres near Sedro Woolley with nicer little stream, could possibly be used to generate Hydro power. $75,000. #330569 SECLUDED 20 ACRES… privacy, wonderful mtn views .Water & power available to edge of property. $99,500. #330567

WONDERFUL COUNTRY HOME… with dramatic 2 story cupula. 2300 sf home with 1440 sf shop building on 5 private acres. $369,500. #310015 BORDERING STATE LAND… Lovely 20 ac. Mostly pasture surrounded by forest,north of Burlington, well power & driveway in. $259,500. #336159 POTENTIAL OF EXTRA BLDG LOT!…

Immaculate hom on Mt Vernon hill, updated, 3 Br, 1.75 baths, ally access w/carport & shop. $200,000. #305608 ZONED MANUFACTURING… 6000+sf bldg with clear span at 24’ and 16’. Doors are perfect for user or investor. Call for location & viewing. $325,000. #163367

WATCH THE TREES GROW… 20 acres logged some years ago. Trees are now 10’ to 20’ tall. Great investment near Darrington. $39,500. #331175 READY TO BUILD… one acre lot, w/a pending building permit & PUD water at street. Near Big Lake. $135,500. #331400

Evening Phone Calls Welcome

391-0938 770-7083 661-0145 661-0147 202-2859

goskagit.com/reweekly

Mount Vernon

Ask Our Broker

By Peter G. Miller

• Stay in place and sell the home under the condition that you can remain as a tenant with a given rent (a sale and leaseback). Because the buyer has no vacancies you may be able to get a lower rent.

• Find additional income, save and then refinance to a smaller loan (though interest rates may increase).

• Sell your current property and buy, not rent, a less expensive replacement home that can be paid off over time.

For further information please speak with local real estate brokers and lenders, in addition to a fee-only financial planner.

$186,000

Bayview

$259,000

235 W. Rio Vista Avenue, Burlington

NEW LAND LISTINGS

Terri Heyntsen Galen Kindred Shelah Inman Fritz Inman Jeff Ingman

Q&A

ANSWER:

Tod LeHecka 333-1032 Mary Jo Reitsma 770-6013 Dick Best 770-1491 Tim Reichert 391-5587 Jan Scally 421-5160

Holly Hilts Phil Hurtig Ron Wortham

661-5538 770-0787 661-1500

This Mount Vernon home has it all! 4 BD, 3 full baths on a beautifully landscaped, fully fenced yard w/large evergreen trees. All appliances stay. Nice deck off dining room. Suzanne Jenkins Located minutes from I-5. MLS#350041 360-941-2983

Perfect Location. Perfect View. Perfect ambiance. 2.5 acre parcel near Bayview sets nicely back from and above the bay to afford the maximum view of the water and mountains. Power, cable, PUD water, and phone lines to tract. MLS#347366

Sedro-Woolley

Burlington

$269,000

This is a spacious rambler in a beautiful, established neighborhood. Home features bamboo floors, wall-towall carpet and vinyl upgrades throughout. Remodeled, gourmet kitchen comes complete w/a place for double ovens built into the design.

Outdoors offers a large fenced yard w/raised garden beds! RV parking is available separate from fenced yard.

MLS#111942 Sandy Everett 360-202-3706

Danya Wolf 360-708-8294

$189,000

Affordable country living yet only minutes to town. This unique farmhouse has had many upgrades including oak kitchen cabinets and tile counter tops.

The 2nd floor master bedroom has loads of storage and a separate bonus room for office/ den/hobbies. The detached 30x50 2 story shop offers plenty of work space and the 2nd floor can be used for M.I.L. Bldg also has Donna Kurras attached carport for RV. MLS#286030 360-770-7596

360.424.0300 or 360.853.8888

3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon

www.skagittraditionrealty.com

Real Estate Weekly

May 4, 2012

5

5 signs your roof might be wearing down

a h p e t

3

g s l d e o g b

4

n o i i

R

eplacing a roof is a costly venture few homeowners look forward to. According to Remodeling magazine’s 2010-11 “Cost vs. Value” report, the national average cost of a roof replacement is nearly $22,000, a costly endeavor considering the tenuous nature of the economy. What’s more, homeowners who choose more upscale roofing materials can expect to spend almost $40,000 on their roofs.

Such costs make it no small wonder that many homeowners fear the dreaded diagnosis that their home needs a new roof. While there’s little homeowners can do to reduce the cost of a roof replacement, there are warning signs homeowners can look for that might indicate a roof replacement is on the horizon. Recognition of these signs can help homeowners be more financially prepared should the day come when the roof needs to be replaced.

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May 4, 2012

1. The presence of algae If the roof has lots of dark streaks and stains clinging to it, that is likely algae, which can grow on the roof for quite awhile. Algae does not necessarily do any damage to a roof, but it does do some damage to a home’s physical appearance, as algae on the roof is not very pleasing to the eye. Algae is most often found on the roofs of homes located in climates that have warm, humid summers. If algae is a problem on your roof, spray washing with a mixture of water and bleach can effectively remove it.

2. Buckling shingles Like algae, buckling shingles are another unsightly problem on a roof. But buckling shingles are more than just an eyesore, they actually might indicate significant problems. When shingles buckle, that’s typically because hot Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

air from the attic is forcing the shingles away from the home. Buckling shingles also indicate that the roof is poorly ventilated, which can take years off the roof’s life expectancy while driving up home cooling costs along the way.

3. Granule loss Granule loss is typically a byproduct of normal shingle wear and tear that results from inclement weather, such as hail. Older roofs might experience granule loss, but granule loss can also occur on a new roof if a defective roofing product was used. Any granule loss, even if slight, should be addressed, as the side effects of granule loss include a weakened roof and leaking. If granule loss is not addressed, the consequences could be severe the next time a storm occurs.

substantial. Mold is not necessarily easy to detect, so a professional inspection might be in order if mold growth is suspected. If a professional determines mold is, in fact, present, then the mold will need to be removed and all options, including a roof replacement, must be considered to keep mold from coming back.

5. Roof rot

Perhaps the most discouraging sign a homeowner can see on his or her roof is roof rot. Roof rot appears when a roof is in considerable decay and, if not addressed, its consequences can stretch far beyond the roof, damaging other parts of the home, thanks in large part to water getting through the roof. If roof rot is either not noticed or just ignored, it won’t take long for water to get through the roof and blaze a destructive path 4. Mold through the rest of the home.

Unlike the warning signs already discussed, mold is Homeowners might fear a full roof replacement benot visible on the outside of the home. Instead, homecause of the cost associated with such a project. But if owners should look in the attic of a home to see if there ignored, problems with a roof could eventually prove far is any mold growth. If there is, the roof is likely leakmore costly than the price of replacing the roof. ing, and the health risks of mold growth in a home are

VALLEY HOMES

NORTH PUGET SOUND ASSOCIATION of REALTORS 525 East College Way, Suite J

Mount Vernon, WA 98273

Tel. (360) 416-4902

www.npsar.com

(360) 424-7166

823 N 4th St • Mount Vernon

Visit Our Web site at buyingvalleyhomes.com Call us today or email us at remaxvalley@comcast.net

Property Management Services / Rental Listings Available (360) 424-3198

Why use a ReaLTOR®?

Buying or selling a home can be one of the most exciting, and most stressful things you will ever do. The terminology, the paperwork and the amount of investment you make can seem overwhelming. When you make the decision to use a REALTOR®, you can be sure that they will be looking after your best interests.

The term REALTOR is a registered trademark, the use of which is earned by your real estate agent or broker through ongoing training and membership in the largest trade organization in the country, The National Association of REALTORS®. ®

*Every member of the National Association of REALTORS® makes a commitment to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics, which is based on professionalism and protection of the public. The Code of Ethics is a promise—as a customer of a REALTOR®, you can expect honest and ethical treatment in all transaction-related matters. It is mandatory for REALTORS® to take the Code of Ethics orientation and they are also required to complete a refresher course every four years.

If you want to be sure that you are dealing with a REALTOR® member, visit our website at www.npsar.com/realtor_offices to see a listing of current local member offices, or look for an office that has earned the distinction of displaying the REALTOR® logo:

*Source: National Association of REALTORS®

Mission Statement: The North Puget Sound Association of Realtors advocates for Realtors and their clients, provides services to help members prosper, and promotes the protection of property rights.

goskagit.com/reweekly

1048 Cassius Ct, Camano Island Priced under assessed value. Owner financing available. A great deal for the buyer who wants a beautiful, well built, custom home with one of the best views of Utsalady Bay, Mount Baker, Whidbey Island and LaConner. Located west of Interstate 5 through Stanwood, WA via State Route 532 bridge crossing to Camano Island.

Call Jim Nicholas 360-708-9379 MLS#: 292797 $548,000

1050 Sinclair Wy, Burlington Charming home in the wonderful 55 & better community of The Cedars in Burlington. The floor plan is open & welcoming. Large Rooms, 2 bedrooms, each w/it's own bathroom. There is a garage plus 2 parking spaces & RV parking.

Homeowner Dues include Cable TV, Free use of Clubhouse, Exterior Building Insurance, Building Maintenance, and lawn and yard care.

Call Laura Bird 360-630-9692 MLS#: 287212 $133,900

12432 Wedge Wood Dr, Burlington Magnificent home on the golf course with beautiful patio and landscaping surrounding the property. High ceilings, skylights, gourmet kitchen, and open floor plan with gas fireplace surrounded by beautiful rock. Third bedroom is currently used as an office. Garage is large enough for park your golf cart plus has shop space.

This is a custom built, top of the line home and has been very well cared for. Just appraised for the asking price.

Call Becky Elde 360-770-9427 MLS#: 350225 $435,000

814 Cul De Sac Rd, Burlington Main house with an attached ADU/motherin-law apartment.Main house:3 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms,own septic & drain field,living room with gas fireplace,breakfast nook,dining room,bonus/rec room & small attached shop.Attached apartment:living room,kitchen,bedroom, bathroom,own septic & drain field.Large fenced lot w/room for a garden & to park RV/boat or plenty of cars.Room to build a carport or garage if city allows.Live in one side & rent out the other or invest & rent out both sides.

Call Laura Bird 360-630-9692 MLS#: 285523 $135,000

1110 N Bel Air Dr, Mount Vernon Beautiful home complete with large fenced backyard & nice deck.Master bedroom on main floor.Rec Room upstairs is spacious & could be used as a master or bedroom plus playroom.Has 3 bathrooms,3 bedrooms plus den.Nice kitchen & dining room with sliding glass doors off dining area which allow a lot of natural light.Cedar siding,new roof in 2008,close to walking trail,Great location with friendly block watch neighborhood.Covered front porch.

Recently appraised for $230,000.Not a short sale!

Call Becky Elde 360-770-9427 MLS#: 350206 $215,000

23357 Oakland Lane, Mount Vernon Beautiful 2812 sq ft 3 bedroom 2.50 bathroom 1997 dream home, granite counter tops 10 ft ceilings & a view of Big Lake, Mountains & July 4th fireworks, 900 sq. ft of storage space. Wet bar & Sound Sys. & 2 washer dryer sets up & downstairs.

Viewing deck with gas BBQ. Just a few steps to the 60 ft water front floating dock to your paddle boat covered hydraulic boat lift. A power boat that could be yours with a little negotiation. 6 covered parking spaces & RV pad.

Call Jim Nicholas 360-708-9379 MLS#: 350417 $649,700

Real Estate Weekly

May 4, 2012

7

Simple ways to soundproof a home

A

dvancements in technology have made it easier than ever before for homeowners to create a mini movie theater in the comfort of their own homes.

The affordability of home-theater systems and big-screen televisions, once deemed a luxury only available to the super-wealthy, has made it possible for everyone to enjoy theater-style entertainment at home.

But one thing that can put a damper on those home-

1 Add some layers of drywall.

An extra layer or two of drywall will block sound coming from neighboring rooms. Simply add a layer or two of drywall to the existing wall.

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May 4, 2012

2

theater plans is external noise. Movie theaters are soundproof so customers can’t hear noise from the nearby freeway or their fellow moviegoers “oohing” and “aahing” in the theater next door. Private homes, however, are not so soundproof, so homeowners must take it upon themselves to soundproof their homes to create the ultimate home-theater experience. The following are some of the ways homeowners can do just that.

3

Install double-paned windows.

If it’s noise from outside the home that’s ruining your home theater experience, then consider installing double-paned windows with acrylic frames. Such a job can be costly, so if it’s going to be a budget-buster, then sound-deadening drapes are a cheaper alternative that can also be effective.

Decorate the home with sound-absorbent items.

Another way to soundproof a home is to decorate the house with sound-absorbent items. Furnishings with substantial cushioning, carpeting and fabric on the walls will each absorb sound, reducing the transfer of sound from room to room. Upstairs rooms should be carpeted to further reduce the transfer of sound.

4 Install soundproofing tile on ceilings.

Soundproofing tile on ceilings is another effective way to reduce the transference of sound from room to room and keep external noise out of the home-theater room.

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Now could be the time to sell a new home and earn a slice of the real estate pie.

Record-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 your listings in Real Estate Weekly.

RealEstate weekly In print and online

Call 360.416.2180 Today!

goskagit.com ads@skagitads.com

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Real Estate Weekly

May 4, 2012

9

RENTALS

WOODLAND APTS

1, 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts 2 x 1 ½ Town homes Covered Parking Complete Appliance Pkgs Sport Courts / Playgrounds Pet Friendly Call Today! 360-856-4803 1 and 2 bdrm apts.

2 bdrm townhouses.

W/S/G pd. No dogs.

Call for details, 360-856-6652 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

DESIRABLE APT. HOMES Sedro-Woolley. 3 bdrm flat or 2 bdrm townhouse apts. $830-$905. Incl.: W/S/G, W/D, stove, refrig., DW. Clean & well maint.

Trail West Apts. 854-2010 Spacious Apts. & Homes!

2 & 3 bedroom flats, 2 & 3 bedroom townhouses 3 bedroom houses; $705 to $1300 starting rent.

Klinger Estates, Dolly St. Townhomes, Trail West, Cascade View.

360-854-2010

1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals.

2 BDRM MV APTS., quiet, Piazza Realty Property W/S/G/recycle & basic cable Mgmt., Inc. 360-424-RENT pd. Covered parking and (7368) www.prpmrentals.com storage room including laundry on-site. No smoking/ 2 bdrm house, 312 Union St. pets. 360-708-1721 No smoke. Small pet negot. $30 credit ck. $685 + $600 Alpine Ridge Retirement dep. S/G pd. 360-202-8678 Apartments in MV is accepting applications for 1 and 2 2 bdrm, 1 ba, in Sedro-Woolbdrm apts. Income limits ap- ley, $850/mo. + dep. No smoke/pets. 360-274-4964 ply. 424-9622 for more info.

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 ba, detached carport with workshop. Big kitchen, living & family rooms. Recent interior remodel. Gas furnace (plus wood fireplace). Large city lot with yards, garden space. Close to schools, shopping. No smoking. $1,175/mo. + security deposit.

Pets negotiable.

Credit check required. 360542-2203.

2 bdrm, 1 ba, nice quiet So. MV area, W/S/G pd. W&D incl. Gas heat. No smoke/pets. $25 app fee. $725/mo + sec. dep. 360-629-0430 2 bdrm, 1 ba, S.W., W/S/G pd. Gas heat. $750, 1st, last + $600 dep. No pets. 421-2416

MV 4-plex, 312 S. 20th, 2 MOUNT VERNON. 1 bdrm, 1 bdrm, 1 ba, W/D, garage, bath, w/carport. W/S/G pd. yard, $750/mo. $500/dep.

No smoke/pets. $500/mo. + 360-424-6974. sec. dep. $25.00 app fee.

Anac., sunny, private 1 bdrm 360-629-0430 apt. $650. incl. W/S/G/TV. No MV 4 bdrm, bonus room, 2 ½ smoke/pets. 360-293-2251 ba, garage, gas heat, $1300/ mo. $800/dep. 360-652-6080 ANACORTES 1 BDRM. 2 Bdrm, 1 ¾ Ba, S.W. Old Town, wood floors, Newer rambler on 1 acre, laundry, $750. 503-369-3250 gated community just N. of Garage, W/D, gas heat, approx. 1100 sf., lrg. Closets, S.W. 3 bdrm, 2 ba, 3 car built in storage, 1 level.

Beautiful 1 bdrm, upstairs, garage. All applcs., nature $825/mo. Piazza Property 955 sq. ft. $650. Avail. immetrails, pet upon approval. Mgmt., 360-424-7368 diately. 360-421-1782 $1350/mo + dep. Marty 425MV 2 bdrm near hospital, 308-0753 MV 4-plex, 400 S. 20th., large

corner of 14th & Fowler, quiet location. Patio. W/S/G pd. No smoke/pets. $750. 421-7978

10 2012 10 May May 4, 4, 2012

S.W. 1 bdrm, ¾ ba, fridge, stove, W/D, no smoke/pets. $500/mo. (425)743-2850

1 bdrm, 1 ba, W/D, garage, yard, gas furnace, $700/mo. $400/dep. 360-424-6974

MV 4-plex, 512 S. 20 th, 2 bdrm, 2 ba, 1200 sq. ft., ground floor, garage, deck, W/D, $800/mo. $500 dep.

360-424-6974 MV 6 plex 427 N. 21st St., 2 bdrm, 1 ba, lrg. country kitchen, lrg. deck, upstairs, central laundry, carport, $695/mo. $500/dep. 360424-6974

2 BEDROOM MOBILE Sedro-Woolley, $725 + 350 deposit 360-855-9747

FOR RENT

$900 & up The Cottages of

Brand New 0 Down Homes!

$22 hrly Income Qualifies Cheaper than rent 24 hour Recording INSTANT PROPERTY INFO 1-800-270-4033 EXT 3000 Visit www.bestplataround.com

for pics, prices and maps Free list of 0 down homes w/pics: www.0downlistings.com MUST SELL Fixer Uppers Distress Sales Bank Foreclosures Free list with pics: www.WaBankHomes.com DIRECT 425-345-4920 JEFF LATHAM KWNWRE

Highland Greens II

(Village Ct @ 3200 30th St.)

Salem Village II

(Hoag & LaVenture) Seniors 61+ Mount Vernon Call 360-540-1438 Water, garbage, cable incl.

Universal Design-No Steps

1972 mobile home, 12x64, 3 bdrm, new roof, new insulation. Ready to move. $8500 or best offer. 360333-8472 or 360-840-2551 Park Village 55+ park, 2 bdrm, 2 ba, corner lot, 2 sheds, 1,536 sq. ft. $24,950. Call Mick 360224-5250

Open House Sat. & Sun. 11-3pm Peaceful, quiet home, view, 2 bdrm, 1.75 ba, 2 car garage, garden area, RV parking.

FSBO. $205K. 345 Seaview Court, Camano Island.

425-344-0480

VIEW LOT NEEDS DREAM HOME. All utilities and approved plans.

Owner contract. $119,000.

360-422-5708 www.skagitsolutions.com

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

QUEEN OF THE HILL

OPEN HOUSE Sat. & Sun. 11-4 627 Waugh Rd 2340 sq. ft., .32 acres, 3 bdrm, 2 ½ ba, sunroom, bonus room over garage.

Spectacular views of city, valley and surrounding mountains. Large corner lot with private park like setting. A gardener's delight with greenhouse, pond and sheds. Beautiful gardens, Rhododendron's, maples, perennials. Huge brick private patio – perfect for entertaining. Many updates including new roof and furnace in 2005. By owner $359,500. 360-424-6786.

WATERFRONT COTTAGE $107,000; salt water & Mtn views; 5 min to LaConner; pics at: www.vrbo.com/198695.

Call 425-787-6070

MONEYMAKER 5545 Chuckanut Dr./ Bow Hill Road 2300 Sq. Ft. Commercial Bldg on 17,000 sq. ft corner equipped w/walk-in cooler Plus seperate freezer-both with showcase features. Highest/Best Usages: Retail dist. Center, Rest., Mini Grocery, Bar and/or Fast Food; Pizza.

Price reduced $235,000 Assume $100,000 1st.

Listed MLS COMM #335106 BRUCE FLANAGAN REAL ESTATE 360-298-4777

READY FOR BUSINESS! Prime Location at 1200 Riverside Dr Reduced price ! $299,000. 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/MARINECRAFT /AIRCRAFT & ACCESS. Neighborhood (6R9) AUTO SALES/SERVICE FACILITIES. Reduced Price $299,000.

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

STOP RENTING – BUY! MV 3 / 2 ½, bonus room, garage, large fenced yard, quiet neighborhood. $1445. 360-422-5708 www.skagitsolutions.com

700 N. REED STREET #87, SEDRO WOOLLEY $35,500

BEAUTIFUL NEW HOME 2281 S. 19th Street 2000 sq. ft. rambler on 9950 sq. ft. lot Very quiet & secluded S. Mount Vernon area 4 bdrm, 2 ½ baths Granite countertops, stainless appliances Open floor plan with high ceilings thru-out Master suite features soaking tub, double vanities, double shower Close to schools, shopping, easy I-5 access Now 100% complete Open Sat., Noon–3 $319,500.

JEFF INGMAN (360) 202-2859 Brown McMillen Real Est.

One of the nicest double wide manufactured homes in Valley View. Close to town, shopping & all services, Hwy. 20 & Hwy.9.

Many upgrades including newer appliances, roof, large outdoor shed for extra storage. Fully fenced yard. Very clean & well maintained with lots of room to grow. 1431 sq.ft., 4 bedrooms & 2 full baths with skylights bringing in lots of light. Pellet stove.

MLS# 275029 Rita Ingram, (360)708-8338 WRE/Skagit Valley

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

REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly

goskagit.com/reweekly

Real Estate Weekly

May 4, 2012 11 May 4, 2012

11

SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.

www.WindermereSkagit.com

360.424.2100 • www.century21northhomes.com

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

North Homes Realty Inc. $129,500

MLS#225091

• All appliances stay • Cute yard • Great starter or rental • 2 bd, 1 ba

$152,000

MLS#305982

• 4 bedrooms • Fenced backyard • Close to schools • New listing

$249,000

MLS#345898

• 30x40 shop • 17+ acres • Year round creek • 2+ bedroom

$215,000

$224,900

MLS#283607 $248,500

$27,000

MLS#347721 $379,999

• Inground pool • Nice location • 4 poss. Bdrms • Needs some TLC • Desirable 55+ park • Shy 1700 sf • Newer roof • Backs to greenbelt Anita Kohl 961-7795 Dawn Hardman 540-0058 Duane Gish 770-9299 Dominic Pettruzzelli 333-5210 George Herner 840-3743 Jackie Lindeman 770-9080

MLS#193527

• Excellent condition • Large shop • New carpet & paint • 3 bedrooms

MLS#334020

$225,000

MLS#335079

• 5.25 acres • Bonus Room • Small pond • Fruit trees

• Detached shop • 4 bedrooms • Large deck • Many extras

$229,000 MLS#277434 bonus rm • 4th bdrm/den MLS#306633 •• Lg Newer 3 bdrm • Granite counter tops

• Riverfront retreat • Private 4+ acres • Huge family rm • Garage + shop

SOLD

• New construction • 1 acre lot • 4 bedroom beauty • 3 car garage

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

$349,000

REAL ESTATE CLASSES STARTING NOW! CALL SCOTT 360-540-2121

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 Prop. Mgmt 542-2134

CENTURY 21

NORTH HOMES REALTY INC.

FOR BUYERS & SELLERS! WHO QUALIFIES AS A HERO? Anyone can be a Hero! Our initial heroes have been firefighters and public safety officers. However, there are many Heroes in our communities: health care professionals, military personnel, educators, and educational support staff, youth workers, pastors and more. Tell us what you do for your community. When you are buying or selling a home, let us say Thank You for all you do!

HOW MUCH WILL I ACTUALLY SAVE? The savings will depend on the final selling or buying price of your home.

Homes for Heroes Affiliates have agreed to the following rebates & discounts: Discounted Lender fees on Purchases or Refinances with HFH preferred Lender •25% of the agent’s gross commission $100 off a home inspection• 50% off title insurance loan discounts

11453 BAYVIEW-EDISON RD., #23 MV $34,888 Fantastic 2008 Fleetwood in pristine condition with Padilla Bay views. Master with step-in-shower. Guest room, additional full bath. Large cedar deck. Open kitchen with all appliances. Call Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #220167 700 N REED ST., #87, SDW $35,500 This large 4 bedrooms, 2 bath double wide is very clean & move-in ready. Many upgrades & improvements. One of the nicest homes in Valley View. Close to shopping & all services.

Call Rita Ingram at 708-8338. #275029 2819 CLUB CT., #117, MV $124,950 A very nice 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath condo. 1 car attached garage.

HOA dues cover exterior maintenance, water, sewer, garbage & cable. Community amenities include tennis & racquet ball courts & indoor pool. Quiet neighborhood with easy access for commuting. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #301505

39541 BAKER LAKE RD., CNC $219,000 A nice rambler with basement & 3 bedrooms, 1 bath all on over 9 acres. Newer roof, windows, wiring & paint. Many outbuildings for your equipment. Close to lake & river fishing.

Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #311226 18653 BLACKBERRY LN, MV $239,900 Enjoy beautiful views of Big Lake from a private covered deck or from the picture windows that surround this gorgeous 1760 sq.ft. home. Open floor plan with vaulted ceilings. Fully finished lower level. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #275165 3319 E. SECTION ST., MV $284,990 Spacious & sunny home with a great floor plan. Nice kitchen/ family room combo with a fireplace. Main floor master suite plus a bonus room upstairs & 3 more bedrooms. Big 3-car garage. Call Robin Luif 420-2026. #271177 21737 STERLING DR., SDW $339,900 1-level home on 1 acre, 4 bedrooms, den, living & family rooms, formal dining, 2 fireplaces, 3 baths. Court yard with hot tub, tennis court, 2 car attached garage, detached shop & large outbuilding. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #266058

125 N. 6TH ST., MV $364,500 Built in 1923. Traditional 4 bedroom, 3000 sq.ft. home featuring hardwood floors, 10’ceilings, beautifully remodeled kitchen, 2311 ALISON AVE., MV $135,000 many custom & gracious touches throughout. Very large Move-in ready! Cute & clean, 2 bedroom, 1 bath cottage with yard, private & beautifully landscaped. Call Sarah Minton at tons of woodsy charm. Built-ins everywhere. Private wooded in770-3076. #285329 town lot. 400 sq.ft. shop. Call Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #349412

322 GREENLEAF AVE, BRL $144,900 Very cute completely updated 3 bedroom, 2 bath home. New siding, windows, natural gas furnace, electrical, sheetrock, floor coverings, light fixtures, trim, all new kitchen & a newer roof. More info. at skagitvalleyhomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #349041

12690 WAYWARD WAY, CL $409,900 Very nice, large 3600+ SF, 4 bedroom home on 1 acre. Dining, living, family, rec/bonus & media rooms. Enjoy the sunset & lake view. 30x40 two bay shop. More photos & info. at skagitvalleyhomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #347053

SANDI RILEY Realtor®

360.770.8670 Sandi.Riley@century21.com

KEVIN JOHNSON Home Inspector

425.870.0818

Kevin@NorthSoundHomeInspectors.com

PRIME LENDING

RIC SHALLOW

Mortgage Loan Officer

360.631.1072 rshallow@primelending.com

1405/1407 S. 3RD ST, MV $159,900 Nice duplex in historic location. Great rental history. Recently remodeled. Each unit has 2 bedrooms, gas heat & its own laundry facilities, making this a very attractive rental to perspective tenants. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #342302

16818 MARINE DR., STANWOOD $980,000 One of a kind waterfront acreage estate. 3 master suites, 3200+ sq.ft. on 8.33 acres. Glistening views of Port Susan, Camano & the majestic Olympic Mountains. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #348845

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!