Real Estate Weekly | October 7, 2011

RealEstate weekly RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE

OCT 7-OCT 13 TWENTY-ELEVEN FREE

INSIDE

THIS ISSUE

RUMINATING ON REFINANCE PAGE 3

NMLS REPORT ON SEPTEMBER ACTIVITY PAGE 4

CREDIT SCORES WHAT ARE THEY? PAGE 6

Q&A BUY AS BF/GF? PAGE 7

TRENDS 16162 ASCENSION WAY, MOUNT VERNON Brown McMillen Real Estate 235 W. Rio Vista Avenue Burlington, WA 360.757.6013 www.brownmcmillen.com Jeff Ingman, (360) 202-2859 ingmanjeff@aol.com

$344,500

This spacious new 3 Bedroom Rambler near Big lake is situated at the end of a cul-de-sac on a full acre lot and enjoys panoramic views of the Nookachamps Valley, Mount Baker and the surrounding countryside. The 2,185 Sq Ft home boasts extensive real hardwood floors, granite countertops, fireplace, and numerous skylights make the home bright and cheery year round. A 14’ x 28’ covered patio is great for enjoying the outdoors even when the weather isn’t so great. For those with horses there is also an Equestrian Stable located just three blocks away. Exceptional buy at $344,500.

MLS# 122399

ON OWNING AND RENTING PAGE 7

WHO’LL STOP THE RAIN? PAGE 8

SAVING GREEN

BY BEING GREEN

FEATURED ARTICLE:

PAGE 9

SAVING GREEN BY BEING GREEN - three simple fixes to help save money and winterize around the house There are numerous, simple projects at homeowners’ fingertips that can conserve energy in a home (cont. on pg. 9)

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 Ruminating on Refinance NMLS brokers say September activity reflects “healthy activity, positive trends” Credit scores: What are they? Why do they matter?

Q&A: Buy as BF/GF? Trends: On Owning and Renting Who’ll Stop The Rain?

Saving Green by Being Green Classifieds

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or other Skagit Publishing publications, Call 360.416.2180 or E-mail ads@skagitads.com View this publication online at www.goskagit.com/reweekly ©2011 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.

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Territory NW

PRI CE RED UC ED

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: Sat 1-3PM Oct. 8

Sedro-Woolley

702 Cascade Palms Court, Sedro-Woolley $119,900

Beautiful ground-floor condo. 2 bedroom, 2 baths.

Patio & deck backs to greenbelt. Jetted tub, lots of storage. Attached garage. MLS#220403 DIR: FROM HWY 20, NORTH ON TRAIL ROAD, CASCADE PALMS IS ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE ROAD.

Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

Mount Vernon

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$114,900

Lovely 2 BR, 1 ½ bath bungalow located in the heart of SW. The sunroom awaits you at the entry.

Large LR/DR area w/ cozy gas insert. Cute Country Kitchen. Off the kitchen is the mud/laundry room. Partial basement currently used for storage & fun little 3rd BR. MLS#161197 Call Ron, (360) 333-1045

$239,000

Bow

Concrete

$99,950

Private neighborhood, gated. Wooded with soil logs. Mountain Views, Well and septic design completed. 1 acre lot. MLS#220977 Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

3+ bedrooms, 1.5 Baths. Great neighborhood.

Large unfinished basement, with tons of storage. Cedar lined closets, Hardwood flooring.

MLS#276721 Call Mike (360)540-1341

Burlington

$169,950

Burlington

$169,900

Charming rambler on the hill. 3 BR, 1 bath, 1120 Sq. Ft. Beautifully appointed throughout. On fenced ¼ acre lot w/raised beds. Wood Floor under carpet, fireplace in the living room. 2 car carport, 2 large sheds for hobby or shop.

MLS#279700 Call Charlie, 708-1415, or Jeannie 708-9645

Wilma Louia Owner 661-1631

$137,000

Mount Vernon

Mike Welling 540-1341

Lisa Davies 391-2232

October 7, 2011

Large split level home located in Burlington Country Club. 4 bedroom, 2 ½ baths, Fireplace in rec room, Spacious yard. Home needs a little TLC. MLS#268930 Call Ron, 333-1045

Ivana Wood 770-3550

Amber Soria 969-4030

Ron Van Pelt 333-1045

The Vanilla Swan in Bow is available! A unique opportunity offering business and attached 3 bedroom residence/office space. Outstanding location on Chuckanut Dr. MLS#216684 Call Lisa, 391-2232

Elizabeth Detillion 708-8800

Debbie Allen 708-8780

Michelle Mitzel 630-4423

$399,000

Samish Island high bank. Three bedroom rambler w/Sweeping view of bay and mountains. Shared boat ramp and shared private beach access.

MLS#261419 Call Wilma, 661-1631

Jim Stransky 708-1681

Kirk Campbell 770-7470

Dan Soria 348-6655

Sedro-Woolley

$139,000

Sedro-Woolley

$479,000

Gorgeous riverfront home on 5.5 acres 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, single level home. Quiet, private area. Separate insulated outbuilding.

Woodstove and new carpeting too! MLS#253310 Call Ron, (360) 333-1045

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

Charlie & Jeannie Boon 708-9645

Racquel McDermott 420-1830

Pete McDougal Broker 708-6500

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Ruminating on Refinance Whether it’s to lower your monthly payment, shorten the life of your loan or cash out on some of your equity, with interest rates remaining near record lows, now may be the time to consider a mortgage refinance.

“Rates are at historical lows and the opportunity of them potentially falling lower is probably not worth the risk of them moving higher,” says Cory Martilla of Supreme Lending in Dallas.

“As our economy improves, we can expect rates to rise. Most economic professors believe we are bounding around at the bottom of the country’s current economic condition and that, generally speaking, economic conditions will remain or improve in the next two years. If this is the case, rates will rise.”

A low interest rate may be the enticement, but also examine the terms of the loan and how long you plan to remain in your home. A general rule of thumb is that the rate should be at least 1 percent less than your current interest rate, and you should expect to remain in your current home for at least four years from the time you refinance.

Bill Higgins, chief lending officer with ING Direct in Philadelphia, says if you’re committed to rebooting your mortgage, examine any charges associated with the refinance carefully. If you’re going to refinance to lower your mortgage by a quarter of a percentage point but have to pay thousands in closing costs, it’s going to take a while to recoup those costs.

In addition, get a referral from a friend or loved one to a mortgage loan officer/lender who has many years of experience, especially considering all the changes the mortgage industry has undergone in recent years. Gather all your important financials and make sure you’re prequalified by that lender based on your income, credit and assets to ensure a smooth and timely processing of your loan.

OPEN HOUSES & SHOWCASES OPEN HOUSE ˙ Sat, 10/8 & Sun, 10/9 – 1:00 – 4:00 ˙ LACONNER In-Town View Property

3 Bd, 1.75 Ba, Hardwood Floors, Spacious Rooms, Large Deck and Yard View of Channel and Bridge.

Easy walk to downtown shopping, restaurants, museums, and salt-water marina.

MLS #245650 $389,000 616 Second St., LaConner

Preview Properties Skagit LLC

360.848.8900

goskagit.com/reweekly

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8TH 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. Mount Vernon 824 Thurmond Avenue, Sedro Woolley • $198,000 Extremely well maintained Grandview North built rambler with dormer windows above. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, vaulted ceilings, laminate flooring & 2” faux wood blinds throughout.

Spacious dining area off of kitchen. Beautiful fully fenced yard w/landscape lighting & back deck.

Less than 4 mile easy commute to I-5. Quiet, not a through street. MLS#280529 DIRECTIONS: From Cook Road (just west of Trail Road), turn north (right) onto Klinger and proceed several blocks to Thurmond. Turn right (east) onto Thurmond Avenue. 2nd house on Danya Wolf left hand side(north (360) 708-8294 side)of street.

Don and Linda Zimmer, REALTORS 360.708.1579 or 360.708.9662

Real Estate Weekly

$149,000

Great home in well established neighborhood within walking distance from Hill Crest Park. This home features an open floor plan, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, gas fireplace in family room, fully fenced backyard & partially covered Jessie Cavazos patio. MLS#206788 360-770-5623

360.424.0300 or 360.853.8888 3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon www.skagittraditionrealty.com

October 7, 2011

3

Northwest MLS brokers say September activity reflects “healthy activity, positive trends” Northwest Multiple Listing Service KIRKLAND, Wash. (Oct. 5, 2011) – With inventory at its lowest level since May, members of Northwest Multiple Listing Service report “stiff competition for move-in ready homes” in some neighborhoods. Other key indicators in the latest statistical report from Northwest Multiple Listing Service show upticks in sales and some leveling off on prices.

Pending sales for the Northwest MLS service area, which encompasses 21 counties, are up more than 20 percent from a year ago. Following typical August-to-September patterns, the volume of pending sales (mutually accepted offers) tapered off last month (down 9.6 percent) compared to the previous month.

Brokers reported 4,988 closed sales during September, beating the year-ago volume by 991 transactions for a gain of almost 25 percent. The number of completed transactions in the four-county Puget Sound region (King, Pierce, Snohomish and Kitsap) jumped 32 percent from twelve months ago.

Northwest MLS members added 7,923 new listings to the database last month, the fewest since February. At months end, with those additions, there were 35,254 active listings in the MLS service area, almost 6,900 fewer than a year ago (a decline of 16.4 percent).

“This market is proving to be challenging, but not for the reasons you might think,” said OB Jacobi, president of Windermere Real Estate Co. He pointed out interest rates are low, affordability is high, and confidence in the housing market is improving. “These are all good things, but the result is an influx of motivated buyers in a market where inventory levels have not yet caught up to the demand.” Jacobi, a

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October 7, 2011

member of the Northwest MLS board of directors, said one consequence is “stiff competition for move-in ready homes that are priced right, especially in neighborhoods close to Seattle.”

trends in sales activity and listing inventory.”

“In Central Puget Sound, 90 percent of sales activity is taking place in the more affordable and mid-price ranges, where the inventory level of homes for sale is low to healthy,” said J. Lennox Scott, chairman and CEO of John L. Scott Real Estate. “Historical low interest rates combined with lower adjusted prices are attracting home buyers and investors at a healthy sales activity level,” he observed.

“Historically low interest rates may get more buyers shopping but buyers are very well educated,” reported NWMLS director Darin Stenvers. “Before they ever leave their homes they have a good idea of which homes are priced correctly,” he explained. Conversely, he added, “Many sellers are not taking into consideration the effects of extremely tight appraisal guidelines and heightened credit requirements.”

The median price on last month’s closed sales of single family homes and condominiums (combined) was $233,945, down about 9 percent from September 2010. Compared to six months ago (March 2011), prices area-wide have declined 3.7 percent, while a comparison to three months ago (June 2011) shows a price dip of 2.9 percent.

Distressed homes selling at deep discounts account for much of the drag on prices, according to data from the National Association of Realtors®. Its statistics show distressed homes – foreclosures and short sales – accounted for 31 percent of sales nationwide in August, the latest period in the NAR analysis.

Locally, industry veterans are encouraged by the combination of shrinking inventory and year-over-year gains in sales.

“Historically, low inventory at these levels has led to stable or slight increases in home valuations,” said Northwest MLS director Joe Spencer, COO and president of John L. Scott Real Estate. “It’s too early to tell,” he added, “because there are a lot of crosscurrents in the economy, but it’s encouraging seeing positive

Realistic pricing is paramount in today’s market, according to Northwest MLS brokers.

Stenvers, the managing broker at John L. Scott’s Bellingham office, said homes are selling if sellers will look at the comparable sales that brokers and appraisers need to use as guidelines when bringing a home to the market. Many unrealistic sellers still think they can get what they “need” or “what they have invested,” but the buyers simply will not overpay, he emphasized. “Properly priced homes are selling, overpriced homes are not, it is that simple,” he stated, suggesting if a frustrated seller is not getting showings or offers they should ask their broker for new “comparable solds” and adjust their listing price.

Jacobi reported seeing an influx of cash buyers in the $800,000 to $1.2 million price range, especially on the Eastside areas around Bellevue. “Although prices have declined from their peak in 2007, financing for jumbo loans remains tough, so cash buyers have the upper hand in negotiating the best deals,” he observed. “The buyers are not looking at housing as a red hot investment,” he said, “but rather as a place for long-term value and a possible hedge against inflation. Like many of us, they’ve experienced firsthand the effects of fall-

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

ing stock prices and rising inflation. But unlike equity investments, these buyers figure that at least they can live in their home while they wait for the global economy to figure itself out.”

household formation. “We continue to experience a pattern in which financially qualified home buyers, willing to stay well within their means, are being denied credit – a factor in elevated levels of contract failures,” he said, suggesting buyers may be able to find more favorable credit terms with community and small regional banks.

Commenting on the national picture, NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun said the market Northwest Multiple Listing Service is underperforming given a pent-up demand in September 2011

Northwest Multiple Listing Service, owned by its member real estate firms, is the largest full-service MLS in the Northwest. Its membership includes more than 22,000 real estate brokers. The organization, based in Kirkland, Wash., currently serves 21 counties in Washington State.

Date Run 10/1/2011

Skagit County Area Statistics Report for the Month of September Closed Sales Report - Residential & Condominium Units SEP Area 815 816 817 820 825 830 835 840 845 Total

SEP

2011 2010 28 24 00 00 00 00 07 03 10 10 15 13 35 32 01 00 05 05 101 87

Average Price (SALE)

Average Time On Market

Median Price (SALE)

Y-T-D

Y-T-D

SEP

SEP

Y-T-D

Y-T-D

SEP

SEP

Y-T-D

Y-T-D

SEP

SEP

Y-T-D

Y-T-D

2011 215 04 01 42 115 129 280 04 43 833

2010 220 05 01 31 92 145 297 06 44 841

2011 $354,560 $0 $0 $290,200 $261,150 $161,693 $222,382 $215,000 $140,900 $254,444

2010 $314,333 $0 $0 $161,666 $221,630 $175,588 $235,336 $0 $122,200 $237,583

2011 $327,825 $259,187 $200,000 $326,046 $225,820 $180,971 $212,939 $133,375 $83,528 $238,266

2010 $340,001 $417,399 $520,000 $263,566 $255,136 $184,734 $240,890 $88,915 $146,109 $254,867

2011 $303,400

2010 $248,500

$254,500 $195,000 $146,600 $205,000 $215,000 $117,500 $210,000

$140,000 $177,000 $169,000 $199,462

2011 $293,500 $265,875 $200,000 $252,250 $200,000 $168,500 $190,000 $124,500 $60,206 $205,000

2010 $276,500 $330,000 $520,000 $210,000 $217,500 $180,000 $216,500 $75,000 $114,000 $220,000

2011 102 00 00 120 91 114 102 112 208 109

2010 117 00 00 83 106 71 97 00 157 103

2011 115 147 291 148 93 106 113 84 96 111

2010 144 238 259 111 99 93 115 80 139 119

$89,900 $215,000

All Dollar Figure Shown are Based on Sale Price

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

235 W. Rio Vista Avenue, Burlington

VALLEY HOMES

(360) 424-7166

823 N 4th St • Mount Vernon www.buyingvalleyhomes.com

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

ANACORTES VIEW HOME… 4 BR, 2 BA Rambler with hardwood floors throughout and nice water & Island views. $219,500. #250100 MOUNT VERNON-EAGLEMONT’S BEST! 3 BR, 2.5 BA Hansell-Mitzel home, Mster on main floor, hdwd floors.Quiet culde-sac & more.. $339,950. #271424 GORGEOUS VIEW ACREAGE!! Panoramic view of valley, river & mtns.

From this 10+ acre parcel. Enjoy nature at it’s best. Power & water to property. $249,000. #147323 GREAT OPPORTUNITY… located jeast of Burl. Blvd! 2 BR,1449 sf home + attached 572 sf shop with well known thriving business. Lots of possibilities. $299,500. #103775 EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY… 2 BR, 2 BA Page 17 of 18 condo, walls of windows on 2 sides, light & airy. F/place, spacious dining area, lg deck . $165,000. #214140

A BIT OF PARADISE… pasture land w/ newer 2 Br, 2Ba mobile. 11+ ac on S. Skagit Hwy. Frontage on Finney Creek. $159,000. #266577 A BIT OF REPAIR! It’s not perfect, you can buy this 2 bdrm home, Lg lot w/garden space & fruit trees.Seller financing available. $94,950. #29159111 COMMERCIAL BLDG SITE… Burlington corner site with M-1 zoning across from new City Hall. Much potential for uses!! NEW PRICE $180,000. #28127623 PROPERTY JUST FOR YOU… 13+ ac in Birdsview. 11+/- ac of beautiful pasture, mtn views & more. $169,500. #245298 4 BR HOME… zoned multi-family, 2 story 1200 sf, on 10,500 sf lot in central business district. Many uses, great for 1st time buyer, rental or business $137,000. #248425

SAMISH ISLAND… No Ferry, w/front home on 3/4 ac lot. Gorgeous views of Mt. Baker, Samish Bay, Bellingham Bay. One level home, 3 bdrms, 2 baths, great room. Detached 30X40 shop w/3bays.

Shared boat launch. $1,125,000.

GREAT BURLINGTON LOCATION… Spacious 3 bdrm Rambler with 4800 sf Commercial Shop & Horse Barn. $449,500.

BURLINGTON TRI-PLEX… nice Duplex w/2 bdrms in each unit & charming older 900 sf home. Convenient location. Rent duplex, live in the other. $285,000. #152711 INDUSTRIAL SITE… Almost 10 acres zoned for Warehouse, Mfg & Distribution. Burlington Hill Bus Park. $2,100,000. #214854

Evening Phone Calls Welcome

Tim Reichert 391-5587 Holly Brown-Hilts 661-5538 Fritz Inman 661-0147 Tod LeHecka 333-1032 Shelah Inman 661-0145

Phil Hurtig Galen Kindred Dick Best Terri Heyntsen Ron Wortham

goskagit.com/reweekly

770-0787 770-7083 770-1491 391-0938 661-1500

Jan Scally 421-5160 Jeff Ingman 202-2859 Mary Jo Reitsma 770-6013 www.brownmcmillen.com

15060 Fir Island Rd, Mount Vernon

BEAUTIFUL MOUNTAIN VIEWS

Beautiful home & barn w/clear views of Mt. Baker.Totally rebuilt in 1980 & updated in 2003 w/new roof,windows,addition & recently new granite counter tops.3 bdrms.2 ½ bathrooms,Master bdrm has 2 vanities,shower,& lg. soaking tub.2 lg. bdrms have bay windows & walk in closets.Lg.deck, family rm,cathedral ceilings in living rm.

Call Becky Elde 360-770-9427 #250358 $542,000

702 N Skagit St, Burlington

MOVE-IN READY

Move-in ready home w/large living room,nice kitchen area w/range,Large double door refrigerator with icemaker,dishwasher,adjacent utility room w/ washer & dryer.Bedroom & bonus room could be used as a 3rd bedroom,office,etc.

Large Master Bedroom w/space for lounge area on 2nd floor.Cellar w/gas forced air furnace & gas water heater.24'X24' relatively new detached garage/shop with power and cement floor.

Call Jim Nicholas 360-708-9379 #249019 $127,600

Real Estate Weekly

2408 Francis Rd, Mount Vernon

LARGE LOT RIGHT IN TOWN

This home is beautiful with granite tile counter tops and gorgeous hardwood flooring, great location at the end of a cul-de-sac on a large lot right in town. Nice large detached shop plus two car attached garage. Apartment has a kitchenette and bathroom. 4 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths plus the apartment with 1 bedroom and one bath.

Call Becky Elde 360-770-9427 #254839 $220,000

2021 N Laventure Rd #307, Mount Vernon

CONDO

2 bedroom 2 full bathroom condo conveniently located in an off-street area lending to seclusion from traffic & the surrounding area. End unit for outside pleasure that has sliding doors all the way across the large living room for your entrance onto a large covered patio with territorial view.

Call Jim Nicholas 360-708-9379 #268662 $126,000

© 2007 Northwest Multiple Listing Service ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior permission.

24435 State St E, Sedro-Woolley

ROOM FOR HORSES

Cute 3 bedroom with bath. Single garage, coved ceilings, new roof, new gas FA furnace, fresh paint on exterior. Site on 2.45 acres. Even room for your horses.

Call Vicky Boyd 360-708-7884 #257607 $197,000

690 Brickyard Blvd., Sedro-Woolley

GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD

Two level home on large corner lot. Great neighborhood. Fully fenced yard. Large detached shop/garage. R.V parking.

Call Mike Whitney 360-421-4310 #216096 $219,000

October 7, 2011

5

850 740 630 520 410 300 Credit scores: What are they? Why do they matter?

Who ever thought that a simple

three-digit number could have such a profound impact on your day-to-day life?

This is exactly what has happened with the credit score. Beyond applying for a loan or a credit card, the credit score is now a factor in securing a home, getting insurance or even applying for a job.

The system most commonly used is known as the FICO score. The name is an acronym for the Fair Isaac Corporation, which was founded in 1956 by engineer Bill Fair and mathematician Earl Isaac.

The system they devised was first put into use two years later. It is now the most widely used credit scoring system in the world.

The details of the FICO system were a closely guarded secret for many years.

The concern was that information regarding how the system worked could enable someone to manipulate credit scores. But the Fair Credit Reporting Act, enacted in 1970, allows consumers to have access to information that affects their credit history.

Since the mid 1990s, use of the FICO scoring system has evolved to factor into almost every aspect of our lives. Scoring ranges from a low of 300 to a maximum score of 850. Having a score higher than 740 is considered excellent and makes available the best rates and terms. A

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October 7, 2011

score of 700 or above is still very good, and the cost of a loan or other product remains reasonable. If you are between 660 to 699, you will still be able to borrow, but it will often cost more.

Many lenders draw the line at 640. If you are under 600, your options certainly become more limited.

When you apply for a car loan, a credit card account or a home loan, your credit score impacts not only whether you are approved for the loan but also how much you will be charged for rates and fees. The lower your credit score is, the more expensive the loan. Higher credit scores will save you significant money over time in lower rates and fees.

Rates and fees are a combination of the interest rate charged on a loan, and any additional fees involved to originate the loan. Some credit accounts may have an annual fee. Others, such as a home mortgage, may have a one-time loan fee and a variety of third-party fees, including appraisal, recording and closing fees. In an upcoming article we will discuss rates and fees in more detail.

Your credit score comes into play as you look for housing. If you seek a rental property, your credit score will be reviewed as part of the rental application. When applying for a home loan, your credit score will dictate whether or not you qualify. Again, rates and fees are largely based on the credit score.

Insurance companies are using credit scores to determine premiums for home

and auto insurance. Employers may take your credit score into consideration when you apply for a job.

Several factors are used to determine a credit score. You have greatest control in two areas: history of repayment and credit utilization.

Always make your payment obligations on time. Thirty-five percent of your score is based on making payments by the due date. Depending on your history, a 30-day late payment could reduce your score 50 to 100 points.

Another 30 percent of your score is based on credit utilization. Do not overuse your revolving (i.e., credit card) accounts. Keep your balances under 50 percent of the credit limit. An account that shows some activity but is paid in full is best of all. The lower your credit utilization, the better your score.

Is it important to know your credit score? Absolutely. Even more important is information on how to control your credit score. Having a basic understanding of how credit scores work will have a profound impact on your life.

Richard Johnson is the author of “Credit Scores and You: Understanding the Importance of a Great Credit Score,” www.creditscoresandyou.com.

His column appears regularly in the weekly Argus and Courier-Times, and the Skagit Valley Herald’s “Skagit Living” section.

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Q&A

Buy as BF/GF? QUESTION:

My girlfriend and I are thinking of buying a home while the rates are low.

We’ve been together two years, and I get feedback from friends that it’s wise to invest in a home, just not as boyfriend and girlfriend. My friends worry about what happens if our relationship ends, how the home will be divided, who has what rights, etc? Is buying together a smart move or not?

ANSWER:

First, is now the time to buy real estate?

Prices are certainly

lower in most markets than they have been in the past, figures from the National Association of Realtors show that in the first quarter values fell in 118 of 153 metro areas. Whether we have hit bottom is unknown, there are no guarantees. Because real estate is a localized commodity, your best bet is to speak with area real estate brokers.

Ask about such trends as population and job growth and what’s happening with local rentals and vacancies. Consider foreclosures; they may be available at a substantial discount. However, because of paperwork and title issues get advice from a local attorney before buying.

Second, in terms of mortgage financing, it’s hard to see that rates and terms will get much better. As this is

Ask Our Broker

By Peter G. Miller

written loan rates are near historic lows.

Third, marriage provides many financial and legal advantages. If you and your girlfriend want to get married, that’s great - but it should be great even if a home purchase is not in the picture.

If you both elect to buy before getting married then you need to speak with a local attorney or legal clinic. You should have a written agreement between you that addresses such issues as the interest held by each party, your financial obligation, how profits will be split, what happens if one of you wants to sell and the other wants to keep the property, etc.

T RENDS

On Owning and Renting Buying a home can cost less than renting - if you live in the right community. Here’s a look at the current state of housing It’s the American Dream to own one’s home. And realizing that dream might keep more money in your bank account than if you were renting.

Based on current market condition, buying a home is cheaper than renting in 74 percent of major U.S. cities according to real estate website Trulia.com’s Summer 2011 Rent vs.

Buy Index. The listings are based on a price-to-rent ratio of the median listing price divided by the annualized media rent. Ratios 15 and lower indicate buying is less expensive than renting, while rations 20 or higher indicate renting is less expensive than buying.

The index compares the cost of buying and renting a two-bedroom apartment, condominium or townhouse in America’s 50 largest cities, based on population.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2009 American Housing Survey, 30 percent of all housing units in the U.S. are renter-occupied or vacant for-rent. A large chunk - 27 percent - of the rental housing stock consists of single-family detached home. When adding townhomes - single-family attached units - the share of rental stock due to single-family homes is roughly one-third.

goskagit.com/reweekly

Real Estate Weekly

October 7, 2011

7

Ho m e Im prove m ent

Who’ll Stop The Rain?

Gutters and Downspouts

After Hurricane Katrina pounded New Orleans, homeowner Mary A. Huff, who works from her home running her communications business, had new gutters and guards installed on her 1970s split-level ranch house in suburban Atlanta. Her goal was to get water to flow better off the roof and to the ground rather than end up in her house. A year later, she was horrified to find the new gutters leaked. And worse, she learned from her roofing contractor - who hadn’t done the other work - that the gutters were too small for the runoff. The excess water further eroded her 20-year-old roof.

The solution was to replace the gutters, another $3,000. “That was just too expensive. The roof had to come first,” Huff says.

So, what’s the right gutter size? Huff’s contractor, Tom Findlay, whose firm is based in Marietta, Ga., says they should be 6 inches wide rather than the 5 inches Huff has. “In 98 percent of cases, you need a 6-inch gutter to handle the volume of water,” Findlay says, adding the price difference between them is roughly 20 percent.

As for downspouts, to do the proper job they should measure 3-by-4 inches, says Rob Schucker of R&S Landscaping in Midland Park, N.J. And together, they also eliminate drainage problems around the foundation, he says.

Material Choice While corrosion-resistant copper may be the ultimate, its downside is that it can run more than aluminum systems. “It also looks

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October 7, 2011

spectacular with its patina, but unfortunately, you pay a lot for that,” Findlay says. He prefers to recommend a seamless aluminum system in 99 percent of residential cases and fabricates it at the site to be certain it fits properly and doesn’t get nicked during transport.

Placement and Maintenance Gutters need to be installed properly, too - attached to a roof’s rafter tail rather than just to the fascia. “Otherwise, if there’s a lot of water, they pull away and cause fascia to rot,” Findlay says.

Gutter guards also are useful to stop unwanted leaves or ice from collecting. To ensure success, be sure to get your system cleared out at least twice a year.

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Saving Green by Being Green Three simple fixes to help save money and winterize around the house There are numerous, simple projects at homeowners’ fingertips that can conserve energy in a home and keep money in the bank. Although windows, doors and siding are the biggest opportunities to conserve energy and reduce costs, not every project has to be a major one. When it comes to improving energy efficiency, every little bit helps. Using the right products helps to ensure that projects are done correctly and withstand the test of time. Below are a few easy weekend projects to get any house ready for the winter.

Garage doors are usually the single largest entry point into a home and are rarely insulated, leaving a large area where air can seep in.

Rubber thresholds, found at any hardware store, can be easily and quickly installed underneath the garage door to help keep the cold at bay. Since most garage doors are aluminum, it is best to use a two-part epoxy to secure these two different materials together. Epoxy fills any surface gaps, creating a lasting, water-resistant bond. The pressure and weight of the door then helps seal the garage when the door is closed.

A similar type of seal can be made with a rubber gasket on exterior doors as well. By creating a tighter seal on this entry door, cold air is prevented from getting in and the warm air from getting out.

When the weather dips below freezing,

goskagit.com/reweekly

there is a good chance that copper pipes will freeze. This is a potentially messy and costly issue that can be easily prevented.

While it might be harder to get to the pipes behind the walls, exposed pipes in the basement can be wrapped without difficulty. Flexible foam with a split-sleeve, purchased from any hardware store, will slip right over the pipes and can be easily secured with heavy duty duct tape. Either wrap tape around the insulating foam or run the entire length to seal the seam. Even areas where freezing does not pose a threat can benefit by keeping the pipes a more consistent temperature, and preventing costly drywall leaks caused by pipe condensation.

Attics, even when insulated, are a major source of lost heat. However, most homeowners forget to complete their insulation project by insulating the access door to the attic. For this project, it is best to use rigid foam insulation with a radiant barrier. Cut the insulation board to the door’s dimensions. (It is best to cut the piece a tad smaller than the door’s exact size to ensure that it does not interfere with hinges

Real Estate Weekly

or where the door seats into place.) Once cut, affix the insulation board using polyurethane glue. Also, remember to wet one surface prior to gluing and clamp the project by weighting it down with some heavy items. This polyurethane glue expands into the surface of the insulation and creates a tight bond ensuring the insulation will stay in place for the life of the home.

All of these winterizing projects are easy, quick, and can be completed within a weekend. Armed with a few supplies from the local hardware store, energy and heat savings are just a few moments away.

October 7, 2011

9

CALL FOR MOVE-IN SPECIAL. Sedro-Woolley, Burlington & Oak Harbor 1 & 2 Bdrm apts., W/S/G pd., no pets. 360-708-3427

1 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts 2 x 1 ½ Town homes Covered-Assigned Parking Garages / Storage Avail.

Complete Appliance Pkgs Sport Courts / Playgrounds Pet Friendly Call Today! 360-856-4803

Anacortes Manor Apts.

1110 24th Street, Anacortes (360) 293-7755. Beautiful one bedroom apts. for 62 or older seniors and disabled persons. Courtyard entries with attractive grounds, convenient location, laundry facilities, appliances, carpet and much more. Pay only 30% of income and utilities are paid!

TDD 711.

HARBORVIEW APTS in Anacortes. 2 bdrm.

Income limits apply.

Affordable housing.

Call 360-299-0916

1 bdrm in Burl. carport, natural gas heat, utility room, MV large 2 bdrm, W/D, D/W $750/mo. W/S pd. $600/ & disposal. No smoke/pets. $700/dep. Call damage. No pets. 856-6878 $750/mo.

Mark at 360-708-2694 1ST MO. FREE! 1, 2 & 3 bdrm, MV, near college, on- MV, 1 bdrm, 1 ba, W/S/G pd., $30 application fee. $550 site laundry, reserved park+ dep. 360-873-8396. ing. W/S/G pd. Qualify today!

Move in tomorrow! 428-3887 MV, 2 bdrm end apts., upper & lower, redecorated, 2 BDRM MV APTS., quiet, clean, quiet, W/S/G/basic W/S/G/recycle & basic cable cable pd. Refs + dep. $750. pd. Covered parking and No smoke/pets 360-424storage room including laun1695 dry on-site. No smoking/ pets. 360-708-1721 Newly remodeled large studio on busline.

2 Bdrm, MV, W/S/G pd.

Great MV location $550-$700 College Way & 19th.

ASK ABOUT OUR $705/mo. 360-424-6757 MOVE IN SPECIAL! 360-420-0606 Downtown MV Apt., large 1 bdrm, approx. 1,000 sq. ft., S.W. Newer 2 bdrm, 1 ½ ba, $750/mo. Avail. Oct. 1st. with garage, W/D hookup.

WRE/Skagit Valley, Balisa $850/mo. No pets. Call Mark at 360-708-2694.

Koetje, (360)421-4111

FIND OUT WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH ON-LINE VISIT: www.internethousevalue.info Direct 425-345-4920 KWNWRE

10 October 7, 2011

NO HIDDEN FEES! Fairhaven Manor 757-2149 Norris Place 757-3060 1, 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts. Affordable. Section 8 okay.

On Lake Samish studio apt.

Sept. 15th-June 15th. Lrg. kitchen, bath & living room/ bdrm, closets, use of lawn, beach & dock. No smoke/ pets. Refs. $600/mo. 360424-1695 Sedro-Woolley 1 bdrm, $600 + $400 dep. Cute & convenient, no smoke. 856-6737 Spacious 2 & 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba, WD, W/S/G/cable pd. $775/$875. No pets. 1825 E. Division MV. 428-8980

1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals.

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

BURL. 3 bdrm, 1 ½ ba, gas heat, fenced yard, no smoke. MV 2 bdrm, 2 ba, in 4-plex, carport. $800 + $800 dep. $1075/mo. 360-391-3644 MV nice 2 bdrm, 1 ba, carConcrete riverfront, lrg deck, port, $700 + $700 dep.

3 bdrm, 3 ba, bonus rm, W/S/G pd. W/D hookups. No game rm, garage, shop, smoke/pets.

Background gazebo & hot tub. $1200 + chk. 610-9860, 9am-5pm dep. 360-853-8188 lv msg.

MV 4 PLEX, 2 bdrm, 1 ba, Cozy cute, S.W. 2 bdrm, garage, gas heat, W/D, yard, fenced yd, garage, $875. patio, $775/mo. $500 dep. $500 dep. Credit check. 360-424-6974 Avail. Nov. 3. 360-941-4699 Tri-Plex, MV. 2 bdrm, 1 car MV 117 S. 24th, 3 Bdrm, 1 garage, W/D, gas heat, Ba, fenced yard, garage. No $850/mo. $700/dep. Credit smoke. Pets negot. $1095/ ck. 360-540-4192 mo. $800/dep. S/G pd. Refs checked. 360-445-6914

RENTALS

Houses & Apartments.

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

823 N. 4th, Mount Vernon 360-424-3198

3 bdrm mobile in country, Gilligan Creek, very clean, $800/mo., 1st, last $500/damage. 360-856-5519

OPEN HOUSE SAT. 11-2 502 Ruby Peak Ave., MV Best Deal Around! 4 bdrm, 2.5 ba home built in 2006 w/2800+ sqft., huge kitchen, 2 gas fireplaces, formal dining & large bedrooms with walk-in closets.

Reduced to $185,000!

Chris Weitzel 360-312-5151 ReMax Whatcom County

ANAC. Doublewide, 3 bdrm, S-W 2 Bdrm, range, refrig., 2 ba, gas furnace, $895 + W/D hookups, gas heat, no dep. 360-856-4225 pets. W/S/G pd. $640/mo., 1st, last, $150/dep. 855-0097

1 bdrm bonus room in basement, 523 Ball St., S.W. 360-855-1334

Weekly rates, $295.

SPECIAL - 4 wks., $895.

WHISPERING FIRS MOTEL Alger 724-3477

1-3 bdrm apt/house in MV for $495-850. Nice area.

360-336-5412/ 425-347-2330

2 Bdrm, 700 Talcott, SedroWoolley, near schools, playground, library, senior center, market. 5 energy efficient ap2+ Bdrm, Sedro-Woolley, pliances, 600 c.f. storage yard, garage, $795/mo., no shed. W/S/G pd. $745 + $600 RV LOT FOR RENT. smoke/pets. 360-856-4225 dep. Screening report req'd. $250/mo. W/S incl.

No smoke/pets. 840-5728 Full hookup avail. 826-3416 3+ Bdrm, 3 Ba, 2200 sq. ft. home, 2 car garage, lrg. yard BURL. 3 BDRM 1,300 sq. ft. on Buchanan Hill, E. of MV, $985/mo. Incl. W/S/G W/D, near Clear Lk. Lease. $1600, no pets/smoke 360-708-1027 1st & dep. 360-856-2920 S-W 2 Bdrm, 1 Ba, 1 car Burl. 2 bdrm, 2 ba, 1 car garage, gas heat, W/G pd., Retail or office space for garage, gas heat & hot water. $850/mo. + $500/dep. No lease 1954 S. Burlington Blvd $1750/mo. 360-420-6035 Garbage pd. $850. 707-0677 smoke/pets. 360-661-0799

MUST SELL *Fixer Uppers *Bank Foreclosures *Company Owned Properties *Distress Sales Free List with Pictures www.wabankhomes.com Direct 425-530-4246 KWNWRE

2,000 sq. ft. newer manufactured home, 3 bdrm, 4 ba, ready to move.

Asking $45,000/obo.

206-384-2669

OPEN HOUSE Sat. Oct. 8th from 12-3pm 2028 FOWLER ST., MV $238,500 Super location & reduced price!! Easy commute to I-5 & just min. to 3 parks, several schools & the hospital.

Int. upgrades: newer furnace, hot water heater, new floors in kitchen & util. rm.

Ext: new paint & new roof in last 3 yrs. Great rm concept in kitchen/family rm area. Living rm w/vaulted ceilings, frplc & formal dining area. 3 bdrms, 2.5 ba in 1968 sq. ft. Huge covered back deck w/skylights.

Nice private backyard w/ garden space. Fully fenced.

Motivated!! MLS# 236846.

Call Mel Foley at (360)7703115. WRE/Skagit Valley

REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly

$524,950

OPEN HOUSE! 202 S.30TH ST MT.V Sat 10/8 12-3 Reduced to 219,000, This home is in a well established neighborhood. And is move in ready! Natural light makes the kitchen bright and inviting. Master bedroom has walkin closet and sky light over vanity. Two more oversized bedrooms and storage galore. Has newer roof, central heating and air system. Finished garage is well insulated. Minutes away from shopping, playgrounds, and golf course.

Please call Sherry @ Lake Cavanaugh Realty 360.391.3891 MLS#162761

Samish Island Paradise w/WATERFRONT! Custom craftsman on 1 acre w/4 bdrm, 3.25 ba, den/office, & bonus room. Hardwood, slate, Italian marble & more. $600,000.

9418 Marshall Rd. Chris Weitzel 360-312-5151 ReMax Whatcom County

Condo warehouse space.

18'x60'. All amenities. Security. Call Rick, 360-3197359

3 bdrm 1 ba home in Skyline for sale, $99,000. Owner financing available. Call for details, 360-202-9518

RON VAN PELT 360-333-1045 RE/MAX TERRITORY NW MLS# 233705 Country elegance in the heart of Ag fields. Equestrian property features a 4546 sq.ft. home, 4 bdrm, 5 ba, 11 ft. ceilings, travertine floors/shower, all granite counters, spacious oak kitchen, clear fir doors & windows. Formal living, dining, 800 sq.ft. bonus room w/2nd kitchen, private office, lots of storage. large laundry room, patio/ hot tub, covered porches, 2 gas fireplaces, walk in closets, 2 story 3000 sq.ft. barn with 7 stalls, tack room. www.ronvanpelt.com

1114 South 19th, M.V. $199,950

RON VAN PELT 360-333-1045 RE/MAX TERRITORY NW MLS# 267245 Wonderful updated 4 bedroom, 2 bath rambler on the hill in Mount Vernon.

Close to parks and services. Charming home features an efficient kitchen space, dining area, comfortable living room with fireplace, family room, lovely oversized master suite with walk-in closet and jetted tub. Newer roof, gas furnace. Large fenced yard with workshop, spacious deck with hot tub.

Come view your next home www.ronvanpelt.com

CONVENIENCE & UPGRADES

3 bedroom, 2 bath rambler.

Close to Skagit Valley College, schools & services.

Light & bright with clerestory windows & sliders. Gas forced air heat, double attached garage, large deck.

Terms include lease/option. #279708. $195,000 Susan Cooper 360-424-1886 Preview PropertiesSkagit LLC

EXCEPTIONAL VALUE For sale by owner – Quiet, peaceful, yet in the central hilltop area, not a drive by; take the time to admire the oak flooring, vaulted ceilings, master suite w/walkin closet and bath with oversize shower; guest room & full bath, den/home office, features gas heat, hot water and fireplace.

Kitchen has spacious pantry, gas range, and built-in microwave, laundry room with utility sink and cabinets, approx. 1368 sq. ft. Private covered deck, huge double car garage all on single level, attic storage.

Community clubhouse, group activities, adjoining Haggen walking path. Close to shopping and medical facilities.

Priced at $174,500. Call Barbara for previewing appointment, 360-428-5617.

9.4 acres, good pasture, large loafing shed, old barn, with pond for cattle, large RV garage + wood shed. Large shop with work pit. Mtn view. 3 bdrm, large living room, dining room, large kitchen. A must see for $250,975. Call 360-8561313. If no answer, call 360-636-5054; cell for 360430-8084

MOVE-IN READY Super Clean 3 Bdrm, 2 Bath, with fenced yard & storage. Pets Ok. Comes with Home Warranty & seller gives $2500. $39,900.

SEDRO-WOOLLEY RAMBLER

3 bedroom, 2 bath. Privacy on a dead-end street. Open floor plan. Extra large utility room/work room.

Gas forced air heat. Double attached garage. Fenced backyard with large patio.

MLS#277706. $185,000.

Susan Cooper 360-424-1886 Preview Properties-Skagit LLC

OPEN FOR SHOWING SAT. 10/08 1PM-4PM

DREAM HOME on 6+ PRIVATE ACRES w/swimming hole, disc golf course, amphitheater, salmon creek, golf island tee & more! Grand 4BR, 2.5BA home w/near 3000 sqft, office, bonus room, exercise room, & built in sound system. $500,000.

Chris Weitzel 360-312-5151 ReMax Whatcom County

Mount Vernon Centrally located 3BR, 2BA Rambler w/vinyl siding, newer roof & water heater, new paint, & private fenced yard. Near parks & peek-aboo view from DR. Reduced to ONLY $120,000!

Chris Weitzel 360-312-5151 ReMax Whatcom County

REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly

A.R.E. Realty Inc. 330 Hwy 20 Sedro-Woolley Joseph Mason (360) 201-8886

PRICED REDUCED TO $159,500 3 Bdr, 1 3/4 bath home with large yard, fruit trees, single car garage and 8x12 storage shed. Really clean, move in ready. IT WON'T LAST AT THIS PRICE. 807 S 25th Street Mount Vernon. 360-421-2797

Sedro-Woolley – 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba 1996 28x48 Marlette 28x48 on large lot in park, open floor plan - living room, dining room, & kitchen area. Utility room, heat pump with AC, new flat top range, kitchen sink & faucet, hot water heater, new toilets, light fixtures and storm doors. New roof & paint inside & out. Completely landscaped with large fenced backyard with 2 sheds. $45,000. Call for appt. 360-856-2028.

16392 BRADLEY ROAD, BOW, $525,000

Unique Equestrian Property: 2.5 acres includes a 1 level residence, attached 3 car garage, 1170 sq. ft. shop/garage w/10' & 12' overhead doors, 75'x150' barn with asphalt floor, 8 matted stalls, tack room, storage for shaving and hay. Outdoor arena 190' x 90' that is cross drained. 5 turnout areas with shelters.

Perfect horse property.

Valley views plus sunsets.

More photos and info. at SkagitValleyHomes.com.

MLS #273462. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger, (360)4214446. WRE/Skagit Valley

OWNER FINANCING 20 ACRE/HOME SEDRO WOOLLEY MOVE IN NOW!.

OWNER WILL WORK WITH BUYER. CALL DIANNE DALBEY, BROKER TODAY AT 360-757-SOLD OR EMAIL AT 360757SOLD@COMCAST.NET.PRIVACY

October 7, 2011 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

OPEN HOUSE

North Homes Realty Inc.

SATURDAY 1-4

2518 Stonebridge Way, Mt Vernon 2400 Stonebridge Wy #1, Mt Vernon SAT & SUN 2-4

18114 Mariposa Ln, Mt Vernon

$169,900

SUNDAY 2-4

For Details and directions, visit openhouse.com.

#244622

• Must see fixer • Large rooms • Shop + carport • Extra lg view lot

1316 Beach Ave #C, Marysville

$137,000

#181619

$112,800

#263778

• Charming • Big fenced backyard • Large living rm • Spacious kitchen

$279,000 #246533 • 2 bdrm condo • Move in ready • Custom built • A/C & heat pump $229,900 MLS#281025 • Spotless • 2 ½ baths • Fireplace • 2.5 car garage • 3 bdrm rambler • Large shop $229,995 #265266 • Convenient location • Peaceful • 3+ bedrooms • Split level • Family room + den • All appliances

$98,900

MLS#279986

LOCAL FOOD BANK DRIVE! BRING DONATIONS TO $315,000 #23523 • Extra Lg Duplex • 1800 sf each 526 E. COLLEGE WAY

• 3 bdrms w/garage • Well maintained

$129,500 #225091 • 55+ park living • 1900+ sf triplewide • 2 car garage • All appliances stay • Cute yard • Great starter or rental • 2 bd, 1 ba • Family room Anita Kohl 961-7795 Cleaver Sanders 941-3482 Dawn Hardman 540-0058 DJ Jacobs 941-5279 Duane Gish 770-9299 Dominic Pettruzzelli 333-5210

North Homes Realty Inc.

George Herner 840-3743 Jackie Lindeman 770-9080 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 Jim Lyon, Prop. Mgr. 420-5318

SANDI RILEY 770-8670

2518 STONEBRIDGE WAY, MT. VERNON $269,500

2400 STONEBRIDGE WAY, MT. VERNON $298,400 ING

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Sandi Riley Anita Kohl Sharon Stokes 770-8670 961-7795 661-6164

18114 MARIPOSA LANE, MT. VERNON $315,000 AKE

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• QUIET “ADULT”/RETIREMENT COMM. W/CLUB HOUSE & WALKING TRAILS • UPGRADED W/BRAZILLIAN CHERRY FLRS., 2 SPACIOUS BD.,“BONUS RM” + 2 BATHS • VAULTED DESIGN W/GAS FPL., GAS HT., LG. COV. PATIO, DOUBLE GAR., 1700+ SQ. FT.,LOADED!

• CLOSE TO MEDICAL/SHOPPING SERVICES, QUIET COMM. W/GATED R.V. PARKING • SPACIOUS 2000+ SQ. FT. RETIREMENT BEAUTY W/3 BD., 2 BA.,FAM. RM.,COV. DECK! • OPEN PLAN W/HUGE OAK KITCHEN & ISLAND, GAS FPL, A/C, LG. PRIVATE MASTER SUITE

• OUTSTANDING PRICE ON THIS LOVELY 3300+ SQ. FT. RAMBLER W/FULL DAYLIGHT BAS’MT! • OPEN PLAN THROUGHOUT W/MAPLE FLOORS, KIT ISLAND W/GRANITE COUNTER TOPS • 4 BD, 2.5 BA., FRENCH DOORS TO HUGE DECK & PANORAMIC VIEW OF BIG LAKE,GORGEOUS!

37909 THEO LANE, (BIRDSVIEW) CONCRETE $429,500

724 FERRY ST., SEDRO WOOLLEY $349,500

639 RAINBOW DRIVE, SEDRO WOOLLEY $242,500

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BY APPOINTMENT, EASY TO VIEW!

BY APPOINTMENT, EASY TO VIEW!

• FABULOUS “NORTHWEST CRAFTSMAN” STYLE BEAUTY, PRIVATE RIVER ACCESS!! • PARKLIKE 1 ACRE SETTING, GRANITE/CHERRY GOURMET KITCHEN, LG. COV. DECK • 3 BD., 2.5 BA., LG. BONUS RM., DEN, LOVELY MASTER SUITE W/RIVER VIEWS!

• “FRENCH COUNTRY” TRADITIONAL STYLE, UPGRADED ELEGANCE!! • 4+ BD., 2.5 BA., SPACIOUS MASTER SUITE W/TRAVERTINE TILE BATH • GORGEOUS WOOD FLOORS, GRANITE KITCHEN, DEN + BONUS RM, .75 ACRE!

• “HALF” WAY BETWEEN BURLINGTON/BELLINGHAM, • CLOSE TO PUBLIC LAUNCH AT LK. WHATCOM, COMMUNITY CLUBHOUSE ,TENNIS CT.,POOL • LARGE 3 BD., 2.5 BA. W/SPACIOUS MASTER ON MAIN, 2094 SQ. FT., HUGE DECK,LOADED!

2725 E. FIR, #62, MT. VERNON $32,500

2725 E. FIR #95, MT. VERNON $44,500

2610 E. SECTION ST. #37, MT. VERNON $98,900

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BY APPOINTMENT, EASY TO VIEW

• ENJOY PRIVACY + MT. BAKER VIEWS FROM HUGE WRAP ‘ROUND “TREX” DECK • NEW ROOF, MAJOR UPGRADES/ UPDATES THROUGHOUT, WHEELCHAIR RAMP, • 2 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHS, REMODELED KITCHEN, GORGEOUS YD. W/WATERFALL

• AFFORDABLE 55+ LIVING AT IT’S BEST, LOVELY CLUB HOUSE, GATED R.V. PARKING • 3+ BEDROOMS, LG. DEN, FAMILY ROOM W/GAS FPL., NEWER FL. COVERINGS • NEW VINYL WINDOWS, NEW GAS FURNACE & A/C, HUGE DECK, LG. SHOP,1778 SQ. FT.!

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BY APPOINTMENT, EASY TO VIEW • BACK OF PARK PRIVACY, CUL-DE-SAC, WOODED GREENBELT BEHIND! • HUGE UPGRADED “TRIPLE-WIDE”, W/ 1998 SQ. FT., 675 SQ. FT! DOUBLE GARAGE • 3 BD., 2 BA., LG. OAK KITCHEN W/NICE FAMILY RM., BIG DECK, HUGE SHOP, MORE!!

869 CARRIAGE CT, SDW $95,000 Immaculate triple wide with 2 bedrooms, 1.75 baths, den, vaulted ceiling. Kitchen with island & maple cabinets. 10x20 insulated shop with workbench. 55+ community. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #230071 1183 DECATUR CIRCLE, BRL $148,500 Price to sell! Charming 2 bedroom, 1.75 bath condo in Cedar Point featuring an open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, gas fireplace, spacious rooms & 2 car garage . Call Sarah Minton at 770-3076. #219877 1324 E. BERNICE ST., MV $159,000 Excellent location in Hillcrest Park area. 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths. The backyard has apples, blueberries, grapes & raised garden beds. Attached garage plus patio. Call Robin Luif at 420-2026. #230270 1225-1227 E. FAIRHAVEN AVE., BRL $169,900 EACH Offered as a duplex at $339,800 or individual Townhouse units for $169,900. Each unit has 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, gas fireplaces, 2 car garages. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #171607 9404 PROSPECT ST., SDW $194,500 Lovely rambler with 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, large family room, 1824 SF, gas heat on 0.48 acre lot. Also 2 car carport & storage shed. Located close to town & on a dead end street. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #240866 1501 MEADOW LARK LN, MV $219,950 Classic rambler on spacious, private lot! Slate entry & big picture windows from the living room take in the patio & backyard. Fireplaces in family & living rooms. Call Robin Luif at 420-2026. #229760 725 JOHN LINER RD, SDW $227,500 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths in this one level home in immaculate condition. Air conditioning, just under 1600 sq.ft. 2 car garage, outbuilding & manicure landscaping. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #243055

3319 E. SECTION ST., MV $299,000 Picturesque home on spacious lot close to city amenities.

Charming front porch & great floor plan with master suite on main floor plus 3 more bedrooms upstairs. Call Robin Luif at 420-2026. #271177 535 STATE ST, SDW $299,900 Great investment opportunity. 2 separate parcels, one with duplex unit & the other offering 3 stand-alone 1 bed/1 bath homes. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #174821 2417 CROSBY DR., MV $339,950 Classic 1969 custom home by “Master Builder” Len Holmgren.

Gorgeous living/dining combo with rock fireplace & hardwood floors. Valley views. 5 bedrooms & 4,000+ SF. Call Robin Luif at 420-2026. #218717 18616 123RD AVE NE, ARL $369,000 Home on private 5 acres. No CC&R’s. This modern day Victorian is a replica of a Mississippi mansion full of charm!

4 bedrooms, 3 baths. Pond and garden area. Call Mel Foley at 770-3115. #217661

23804 COPPER RIVER CT, MV $379,900 Beautiful & spacious Chaffey-built Nookachamp Hills home.

3200+ sq.ft. on .45 acre with 4 bedrooms, 2.75 baths. Large kitchen with island, stainless appliances & pantry. Large yard & patios. Call Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #278764 22578 S.R. 534, CONWAY $449,500 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 3416 LINDSAY PLACE, MV $499,000 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 42615 WATERS VIEW CT, CNC $529,000 18653 BLACKBERRY LN, MV $239,900 1 level home has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths. 3 car garage & addiEnjoy beautiful views of Big Lake from a private covered deck tional 2 car & RV garage. Plus 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 900 SF apt. all or from the picture windows that surround this gorgeous on 2.56 acres. 255 ft of Skagit River frontage. Call Alice Hanson 1760 sq.ft. home. Open floor plan with vaulted ceilings. Fully at 770-8791. #29061495 finished lower level. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #275165 17971 PETERSON RD, BRL $745,900 61 ALGER CCC RD, SDW $260,000 Extraordinary working farm with traditional farmhouse, 6 Fabulous 2005 manufactured home on 5 acres. Large 2 car bedrooms, 2.75 baths. 18+ fenced acres. Barns, shops, outgarage/shop & greenhouse. Great place to enjoy peace & quiet buildings, racquetball court, stage, cabana & more. Call Tasha & watch wildlife. Call Tasha Zahlis at 391-5075. #138104 Zahlis at 391-5075. #146757 31086 W. MAIN ST., SDW $278,900 16550 STATE ROUTE 9, MV $749,900 Home on 1 acre, fenced & ready for occupancy. 3 bedrooms, 9.2 acre Equestrian Estate. Covered arena with 11 stalls. 3 bay 2.5 baths, large master suite with jacuzzi. Over 1800 sq.ft. 2 shop & gorgeous home with 3300+ sq.ft. offering Mt. Baker & car garage, RV parking. Built in 2002. Call Linda Eastman at Walker Valley views. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #234257 202-4075. #172757

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