RealEstate weekly RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE
MAY 11-MAY 17
TWENTY-TWELVE FREE
INSIDE
THIS ISSUE
FINANCING: WHO NEEDS TO KNOW? PAGE 3
WINDOW GUARDS SAVE KIDS LIVES PAGE 4
SIGN OF IMPROVEMENT PAGE 5
414 E. WASHINGTON STREET, MOUNT VERNON
$184,950
A little jewel in a picturesque neighborhood just above downtown. Enter through the garden gate onto the charming front porch & into an entry alcove & a spacious living room/ Windermere Real Estate dining room. There is a master on the main floor & a generous main 1030 E. College Way Mount Vernon bathroom plus a utility/office with nice windows overlooking backyard. 360.424.4901 • The kitchen has lots of windows & a door to the back porch. Upstairs is 800.849.7939 www.WindermereSkagit.com Agent: a smaller bedroom plus a nice big bonus area that could make a 3rd Robin Lee Luif bedroom. MLS# 341719
(360)420-2026
CONCRETE VS. ASPHALT DRIVEWAYS PAGE 6
OUR FIRST HOME PAGE 8
Q&A: ASK OUR BROKER
FEATURED ARTICLE:
PAGE 8
WHO NEEDS TO KNOW? The more buyers share about their financial situation, the more likely they may be to get the loan – and the home. It’s business, not personal. Still, opening every aspect of your financial life to a mortgage lender can feel very personal, not to mention intimidating. (cont. on pg. 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 Financing: Who Needs to Know?
Pg. 3
Window Guards Save Kids Lives
Pg. 4
Sign of Improvement
Pg. 5
Concrete vs. Asphalt Driveways
Pg. 6
Our First Home
Pg. 7
Q&A: Ask Our Broker
Pg. 8
Classifieds
Pg. 10-11
Pg.
4
To advertise in
RealEstate weekly
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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 ©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.
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Territory NW
Go to our website for a quick and easy way to search all listings! 320 S Burlington Blvd • Burlington www.SkagitValleyRealEstate.com (360) 755-9494 • (800) 775-0153
NE W
Sedro-Woolley
$35,000
Immaculate home in popular Valley View Estates. Updated roof, siding, paint and carpet. Great floor plan w/ lots of sunshine and Mountain view. Large kitchen, fenced yard. Excellent move-in condition. MLS #352318 Call Elizabeth, 708-8800
NE W
NE W
LIS TIN G
Sedro-Woolley
$75,000
Cute home has many updates, including new roof and many new windows. Room for shop, pets and large garden. Located on a sub dividable lot. MLS #316495 Call Elizabeth, 708-8800
Newer Maddox Creek home . 4 bd/3 ba, shy 2,600 sq. ft. Rambler w/daylight basement. Enjoy Beautiful westerly views. Nicely maintained inside and out. Greenbelt in back offers privacy. MLS#353026 Call Charlie, 708-1415, Jeannie, 708-9645
Wilma Louia Owner 661-1631
2
Kirk Campbell 770-7470
May 11, 2012
Sedro-Woolley
$135,000
Great, Clean recently updated 2 bd/1 ba home. Newly remodeled kitchen. Newer roof, freshly painted and new carpets. Fully fenced lot w/alley access. 12 X 20 Deck, RV Parking. MLS #353414 Call Jim, 708-1681
$195,000
This property is a MUST SEE! 40+ acres, mostly flat with a gentle slope. Large pond with lots of building locations. There is a gravel road through the property. Power at the street. MLS #325270 Call Kirk, 770-7470
LIS TIN G
$295,000
Home on Acreage w/Shop. You will love the privacy that this 3 bd, 2 ba home on 5.5 acres offers! 1782 sq.ft. of living area. 2002 Manufactured home, like new w/lovely kitchen. Over 2000 sq.ft. of workshop w/fully finished 1 bd apt. & 3 bays. MLS #354254. Call Debbie, 708-8780
PRI CE RED UC ED
NE W
LIS TIN G
$359,000
Single Level Home on Burlington Hill. 0.46 Acre Lot w/ Views to the East & South. Gourmet Kitchen w/ Cherry Cabinets & Granite Counters. Hardwood Floors, Gas FP, Open Floor Plan. Large Master BR w/ Sitting Area & Master Bath. Secure 2-Car Garage. MLS #115774 Call Ron, (360) 333-1045
Jim Stransky 708-1681
Stanwood
PRI CE RED UC ED
LIS TIN G
$328,000
NE W
Sedro-Woolley
Burlington Mount Vernon
VAC AN TL AN D
LIS TIN G
Ivana Wood 770-3550
Mount Vernon
$374,900
Spacious home just outside city. Formal living/ dining. 2nd kitchen and oversized master suite. Large finished lower level, lots of space. Sits on large lot. MLS #258223 Call Ivana, 770-3550
Debbie Allen 708-8780
Michelle Mitzel 630-4423
Elizabeth Detillion 708-8800
Bow
$399,000
1600 sq. ft. rambler has an extraordinary view of the bay and the mountains. It sits on 2.75 acres. 2 bd/1ba with a family room. MLS #314788 Call Wilma, 661-1631
Charlie & Jeannie Boon 708-9645
Ron Van Pelt 333-1045
Bow
$399,950
Affordable 85 feet of Waterfront home on Samish Island. Restored to better than new. 3 bd/1.5 bath. Huge separate shop for toy collections/hobbies. Priced to sell quickly. MLS #353187 Call Elizabeth, 708-8800
Mike Welling 540-1341
Pete McDougall Broker 708-6500
Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly
Finances
Who Needs To Know? The more buyers share about their financial situation, the more likely they may be to get the loan – and the home.
By Marilyn Kennedy Melia CTW FEATURES
and their agents can decide whether or not to use financial information strategically. Here, a look at what agents may ask of buyers, when buyers might It’s business, not personal. decide to share details, and how buyers might use some financial Still, opening every aspect of your financial life to a mortgage lender information about sellers to their advantage: can feel very personal, not to mention intimidating. Agents Need Assurance So why would homebuyers be willing to share secrets of their financial Before taking a client home shopping, agents will ask for a “prelife with even more people beside their lender? approval” letter from a lender that indicates how large a mortgage the If buyers really want a home, they’re willing to spill, explains Kym buyer could borrow. Poladsky of Cherry Creek Mortgage in Denver. In some cases, agents may probe buyers further about their finances, “When I get a call from a seller’s agent, I’ll first ask [the buyer/ especially if they question the firmness of the pre-approval. borrower], ‘What’s your comfort level?’” Poladsky says. “Often they say, “Some pre-approvals are subject to verifications [of factors like the ‘Lay it on them, tell me I’m good for [a loan].’” borrower’s income],” says Paul Wyman, president of the Wyman Group, Ever since the credit crisis tightened lending standards, everyone a Kokomo, Ind., real estate firm. involved in a home-sale transaction is interested in the buyer’s financial To get comfortable with a client’s ability to garner a loan, many picture. It’s not nosiness but rather practicality that’s driving this curiosity agents refer buyers to a firm they trust. A recent survey conducted by because unless the buyer’s finances can pass the lender’s strict review, the the trade publication Inside Mortgage Finance showed that one-third of deal is off. transactions involved a buyer getting financing from an agent referred Since financing is the linchpin keeping transactions alive, buyers lender. cont. on pg. 8
goskagit.com/reweekly
Real Estate Weekly
May 11, 2012
3
Fam i ly
Window Guards Save Kids’ Lives T
Windows can be a safety hazard for young children. But window guards can prevent falls. 4
May 11, 2012
he weather is warming and that means windows are being opened to let in fresh air and warm breezes. The advantages to open windows are many. But one particular disadvantage is the safety hazard open windows present to young children. More than 5,000 American children are injured each year after falling out of windows, says the Center for Injury Research and Policy at the Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus. Two-thirds of these children are toddlers, and a quarter of all injured are hurt seriously enough to require hospital admittance. Montreal Children’s Hospital says they treat roughly 10 children a year who have fallen from a window. Due to toddlers’ high center of gravity (a head that is particularly heavy), most topple over and land head-first, which can have devastating effects. Falls from windows can cause serious injuries and even death. However, the accidents are largely preventable. Many recall the tragic 1991 incident when musician Eric Clapton’s son, Conor, fell to his death from an apartment 49 stories up in a Manhattan highrise. Conor, age 4, allegedly darted past a housekeeper who had left the window open after cleaning and fell out of the window. The song “Tears in Heaven” was subsequently written by Clapton for his son. Children are often insatiable in their curiosity and desire to see what is happening in the world around them. Goings-on outdoors can be fascinating, and it is not farfetched to see children leaning up against windows and screens to get a better view of outdoors. A window screen can easily dislodge and provides no barrier from a fall. Parents and guardians of young children should add window protection to the list of safety gear they use to childproof a home.
There are many varieties of window guards that attach to windows and provide a measure of security against falls. Some of these safety devices are bars or grills that install into place but can be easily removed by an adult in the event the window needs to be used as an emergency evacuation point. Window gates can be used on larger, swing-out windows to form a barrier for children. There are also locks and latches that restrict how much a window can be opened. Some areas of the country have made it law to have window guards on second story windows where children under age 10 are in residence, particularly highrise apartment buildings. Even falls from ground-floor windows can cause injuries. It’s important to check with a landlord or with a municipal office about the requirements with regard to window guards. In addition to the installation of window guards, there are other safety steps that help prevent window-related falls. • Keep furniture away from windows. Children can climb on the furniture and have better access to windows. • Keep beds away from windows, especially in a child’s bedroom. Children may horse around on a bed and bounce through an open window if the bed and window are not far apart. • Routinely inspect the hardware and construction of the window to ensure it is secure. Periodically check the fit of a window guard to make sure it is properly installed. • Do not open windows wide in children’s rooms. A few inches is all that’s needed for fresh air. • Make sure children know they are not allowed to play next to open windows or to try to climb up to windows.
Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly
Signs of Improvement More markets showing signs of improvement as housing affordability hits a record high.
Markets just keep getting better. Through mid-March, the National Association of Home Builders’ Improving Markets Index lists 99 housing markets as showing measurable improvement from their lows in housing permits, employment and home prices for at least six consecutive months. The 99 markets represent 33 states and the District of Columbia. Housing affordability also is growing stronger in 2012. In January, the most recent month numbers are available, the National Association of Realtors’ Housing Affordability Index rose to record high of 206.1, the highest level since the NAR began tracking conditions in 1970. (An index of 100 is defined as the point where a median-income household has exactly enough income to qualify for the purchase of a median-priced existing single-family home, assuming a 20 percent down payment and 25 percent of gross income devoted to monthly payments.)
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
Terri Heyntsen Tim Reichert Galen Kindred Jan Scally Shelah Inman
g endin sale p
Evening Phone Calls Welcome
391-0938 391-5587 770-7083 421-5160 661-0145
goskagit.com/reweekly
Holly Hilts Fritz Inman Phil Hurtig Jeff Ingman Ron Wortham
La Conner Waterfront
$249,000
La Conner (Lease)
$1350/month
180 + degree view of Saratoga Passage, Islands & incredible sunsets. 82 feet of sandy beach waterfront, ready for your dream home! Sloped lot with sandy beach below & Madrona trees all on 0.435 acre (18,960 sq. ft). Water and electricity available. MLS#347364
Danya Wolf 360-708-8294
“Better than new” home w/new carpet, hardwd & paint. Gourmet kitch w/new s/s appls & cooking island. Spacious flr plan w/gas fplace & din area. Mstr bdrm opens to deck, ba has soaking tub w/sep. shower. 2nd bdrm next to full ba. Lg den poss. 3rd bdrm. Easy care landscaping. Walk to downtown & waterfront. MLS#352829 Sandy Everett $1350 per month + deposit & application fee. 360-202-3706
Mount Vernon
$125,000
Lake McMurray Waterfront
235 W. Rio Vista Avenue, Burlington
RENTAL INCOME… w/2 mobiles & RAMBLER W/DAYLIGHT BASEMENT… 3 ROOM FOR EVERYONE… 6 BR, 6 Ba studio currently rented. Live in one & Br, 2.5 Ba, hardwoods, French doors home w/12,574 sf of living area. Siturent out the other. Outskirts of Burl- opens to deck, vaulted ceilings, ated on 2 acres w/panoramic views ington. $199,900. #344628 soaking tub & more. $275,000. of Big Lake. $985,000. #251689 SMALL BUSINESS?… perfect location #28187196 MARVELOUS MOBILE… Great value, just 1/2 block east of Burlington Blvd., 5 ACRES WITH SHOP… nice fin- many upgrades, energy efficient winlots of parking. $149,500. #103783 ished apt. upstairs. Cleared pasture dows, newer appliances in 55+ park SEE THE WORLD… Gorgeous views surrounded by trees in Alger area. $17,500 #281152 LEVEL 1/2 ACRE… surrounded by from one acre lot in Cascade Ridge. $209,500. #324540 Gated area, total privacy. Conway COUNTRY LIVING… 1550 sf, 4 BR, pastureland just outside Burlington. 1.5 Bath home. Ranch style kitchen Great spot for new or MFG home schools. $495,000. #28094177 PERFECT STARTER… 2 Br, home, w/eating space. Free standing gas $149,500. #309905 fully fenced corner lot in good Burl- stove. Big bonus rm, no flood, creek 129 ACRES… nicely wooded and ington location. $95,000. #349279 borders property. $140,000. #351095 great opportunity to buy large A LOT FOR A LITTLE… 4 Br, 2.5 Ba ZONED BURLINGTON… general of- acreage at just $3,837 per acre. home, appliances incl, spacious fice & misc. services allows many $475,000. #104177 deck & patio. Fenced backyard, close different uses. Check w/city. Put your NEW PRICE… OPEN CONDO..w/ to walking/biking trails. $189,950. business here in this great bldg. Over vaulted ceiling, gas f/place & covered 2000 sf $224,500. #277005 #279134 deck. 2 Br, 2 Ba, den, french doors. AFFORDABLE HOME… on 1 acre, 2 LEVEL ACRES… w/1836 sf, 3 Br, Spacious living/dining rm. $189,900 hardwood floors, updated kitchen, 2Ba home in west Mt Vernon. 1200 #308800 tile counters. 300 ft of Creek front. sf RV garage/shop. Lots of storage. 9% CAP RATE… 6,600 SF building on No short sale, bank will finance. Lg kitchen & master. $199,500. 1.5 acres near freeway. Fully rented #347994 $139,500. #292338 and excellent investment. $300,000.
g endin p e l a s
A recent NAHB study combined info from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Housing Vacancy Survey and American Community Survey to pinpoint metro areas with the highest ownership rates. The top areas and their percentage of owner-occupied units: 1. Palm Coast, Fla. – 81.5 2. Holland-Grand Haven, Mich. – 80 3. Nassau-Suffolk, N.Y. – 79.8 4. Monroe, Mich. – 78.8 5. Ocala, Fla. – 78.4 6. Rochester, Minn. – 78 7. Bay City, Mich. – 77.9 8. Punta Gorda, Fla. – 77.8 9. Barnstable Town, Mass. – 77.5 10. Stuebenville/Weirton, Ohio/W. Va. – 76.9 Most of the Top Ten high homeownership areas are small in terms of population – eight are less than 100,000. Most (another eight) also have a median home value less than $175,000. © CTW Features
661-5538 661-0147 770-0787 202-2859 661-1500
Tod LeHecka 333-1032 Mary Jo Reitsma 770-6013 Dick Best 770-1491
Beautiful 3 bdrm, 1.5 bath condominium has newer carpeting, laminate flooring & 1 car garage. This nicely decorated condominium is part of the North Ridge Condominium Community. Amenities include tennis court, racquetball court & pool access. SHORT SALE. MLS#347369
Jessie Cavazos 360-770-5623
$489,000
Beautifully appointed, 3426 sq.ft. custom home offers lots of light, amazing views & unique park-like approach. Dock & boat launch. 75’ of Lake McMurray waterfront. The 3 car, 726 sq.ft. garage & beautifully landscaped grounds JoAnn Boudreau complete this piece of paradise! MLS#236420 360-391-0746
360.424.0300 or 360.853.8888
3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon
www.skagittraditionrealty.com
Real Estate Weekly
May 11, 2012
5
Concrete vs. Asphalt Driveways M
any homes come with a driveway. Whether leading to a garage or not, the driveway is a convenient place to park one or more cars. If a driveway is in need of repair or replacement, owners often choose between asphalt or concrete. There are certain factors that come into play when making a decision. More often than not, cost is a main consideration and frequently the driving force behind any driveway decisions that are made. Until you realize all of the subtleties behind these materials, you may not be able to make an informed decision. Cost According to the Do It Yourself Web site, concrete can cost up to 45 percent more than asphalt to install, generally. But if the price of crude oil is high, and crude oil is a component of asphalt composition, then the asphalt could be more expensive. The best way to compare prices is to get a few estimates for each material. Depending on climate, both asphalt and concrete can be prone to cracking. In many cases, it is more expensive to mend cracks in a concrete driveway than in one made from asphalt.
Asphalt driveways tend to be less expensive to install than concrete. breakdown of the oils in the asphalt. The first application of sealant should be applied no sooner than 8 to 12 months after installation to allow the asphalt to properly cure. Asphalt that is ready for sealing will start to take on a grayish hue.
Staining A light-colored concrete can be stained easily from fluid leaks from the Weather compatibility underside of a car or leaves. It may take powerwashing to remove the If you live in a very hot climate, you may want to choose a concrete stain adequately. However, stains are much less visible on dark asphalt. driveway. Asphalt tends to get soft in the heat, which can contribute to But asphalt can do its own type of staining. The oils released from the grooves and dents in the surface. Whereas concrete driveways work better asphalt can stick to the undersides of shoes and be carried indoors. If you in warm climates than cold ones. Salt used on roadways can damage don’t remove your shoes upon entering, these oils may eventually discolor concrete, and cold-weather shrinkage can lead to cracks in the concrete. vinyl or tile floors or get imbedded into the carpeting. Rate of repair Despite the cost, some people choose concrete driveways because they tend to have a longer life with less maintenance required. A concrete driveway can last as long as 50 years. Asphalt driveways can last around 30 years, but if they’re not properly maintained, they may start deteriorating after just a few years. That’s because asphalt is petroleumbased and very elastic. If left to dry out without adequate sealing, the driveway can become brittle and start to wear away. Concrete driveways can be sealed to preserve their quality, but most people associate sealing with asphalt. This should be done every 5 years or so to prevent the 6
May 11, 2012
Variety What you see is what you get with asphalt. There really are no decorative options -- it’s merely a simple and practical driveway material. On the other hand, concrete can be colored or stamped to provide designs and aesthetic appeal. If you desire a higher-end driveway, then concrete may be right for you. Both driveway materials will do what they’re supposed to -- providing a durable surface on which to park your car. If you’re looking for low installation costs, then you may want to choose asphalt. For the utmost in durability, perhaps concrete is best.
Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly
STAT
Our First Home Best Cities for Newlyweds
Agent-less
47 A
trio of Texas towns among the top locales for recently married couples to settle into their first home The vows are spoken and the ceremony is over. Next step: a move to Texas? According to a survey from Rent.com, three different Texas cities – Austin, Dallas and Houston – are among the Top 10 places in the country for newlyweds. The thriving art scene in Austin ranks it at No. 1, with Dallas at three and Houston at five. The list was made with creativity in mind. Cities like Kansas City, Mo., and Washington, D.C., made the cut for their cultural significance, while cities like Minneapolis, the “Fittest City in America,” and Denver, the No. 1 city for beer brewing, are there for a target crowd. Factors like cost of living and household income helped compile data for the list, with the unemployment rate in the city given double weight to the other statistics. Raleigh/Durham, N.C., Phoenix and Baltimore rounded out the list, citing their affordability, scenic and lifestyle opportunities and laid-back attitudes. The survey also compiled data about the cohabitation of newly married couples, with 75 percent of respondents saying their overall quality of life has improved since moving in with their significant other, and 62 percent saying their financial situation got better. But stress is still a factor. In fact, 25 percent of respondents found living with their spouse to be stressful, with many citing the lack of personal space as the source of that stress. The shared space also means downsizing: 19 percent of those surveyed said they got rid of almost everything they previously owned before moving in. –Lindsey Romain goskagit.com/reweekly
Percentage of potential homebuyers who say they are in the market for a home but have yet to find a real estate agent. Source: HomeFinder.com survey of 400 site users NORTH PUGET SOUND ASSOCIATION of REALTORS® 525 East College Way, Suite J
Mount Vernon, WA 98273
Tel. (360) 416-4902
www.npsar.com
Home Buying Gets Another Boost in Affordability Daily Real Estate News | Friday, May 04, 2012
For home buyers or refinancers, borrowing costs for home ownership just got a little cheaper as mortgage rates took another dip to new all-time record lows this week, Freddie Mac reports in its weekly mortgage market survey. "Signs of slowing economic growth and inflation remaining subdued allowed yields on Treasury bonds to ease somewhat and brought most mortgage rates to new all-time record lows this week,” says Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac’s chief economist. Contact a REALTOR® to find out how attainable home ownership is! To find a professional REALTOR®, visit www.npsar.com’s ‘Member Info’. 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.
Real Estate Weekly
May 11, 2012
7
You call that an inspection? QUESTION: I bought a home and was told by the broker that the walk-through inspection was good. Later, I found out the inspection was done with the stove shut off, no light bulbs, cut wires and a dangling electrical box. How can an inspector approve such a property?
ANSWER: The purpose of a “walk-through” inspection is to assure that the property at the time of closing is in materially the same condition as it was at the time the sale agreement was accepted a few weeks or months earlier. It’s important that the walk-through is not
Finances
Q&A
rushed – it can take several hours – that the purchaser or a buyer broker physically attends the inspection and that the inspector is selected by the purchaser. Marvin Goldstein, president of the American Society of Home Inspectors, says an ASHI inspector who “conducts an inspection with the electricity and gas turned off, must disclose that this condition existed at the time of the inspection, as well as what wasn’t able to be functionally tested during the inspection.” Goldstein adds that “since this isn’t a conclusive inspection, any agreement should be contingent on the findings of a re-inspection when all utilities are turned on. Sometimes the utility companies will cooperate by turning on the utilities of a vacant house for just one day to facilitate the inspection.” All inspection clauses do not equally protect
Ask Our Broker By Peter G. Miller
purchasers. For instance, there may be a right to an inspection – but no obligation for the owner to make any repairs. The clause may not require an inspection that must be “satisfactory” to the buyer. If properly written, such a clause can allow a dissatisfied purchaser to end the transaction without penalty. In the usual case, the buyer continues the transaction if the owner makes repairs before closing or provides a credit to the purchaser. For specifics, please speak with a local real estate broker or attorney. E-mail peter@ctwfeatures.com. Due to volume, not all questions may be answered.
cont. from pg. 3
Whether or not a buyer shares information with Before the seller accepts, offer them a very firm his agent or takes the agent’s lender referral “is up pre-approval letter without missing verifications, to what he feels he should do,” says Barry Zigas of she adds. the Consumer Federation of America. Sellers Want Surety In the interval between when a seller accepts a purchase contract and when the sale closes, “The seller could be losing other buyers,” explains Kathy Dames of RE/MAX Realty in Joliet, Ill. As a consequence, sellers want to know how likely it is that their buyer gets financing and the sale will go through. As Poladsky relates, eager buyers will greenlight their lender to tell sellers’ agents about how their financial profile makes loan approval likely. But Talisa Rafferty, a ZipRealty agent in Boston, says that she cautions her buyers that they shouldn’t give any financial details before the purchase contract is accepted. “Otherwise the seller can use that to ask more concessions.” 8
May 11, 2012
Public Records Clue Buyers While it’s up to buyers to disclose their money matters, details about the seller, namely how much mortgage he has taken on his home and how much he paid for the home are public record. “Mortgage amounts are recorded by the county at the time someone takes the loan. You don’t know how much the seller may have paid down the mortgage, but you can make a pretty good guess,” says John Sullivan, vice president of Buyer’s Edge, a broker based in Bethesda, Md. By knowing a ballpark amount the seller owes, the information might be used by the buyer to bid an amount he thinks the seller will agree to, “since it’s just over what he owes,” concludes Sullivan. © CTW Features Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly
Now could be the time to sell a new home. Record-low interest rates and record-low housing prices are renewing interest in the housing market for many people. Let us help you advertise your home or listing in Real Estate Weekly.
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Sedro Villa Apts. 829 Reed St., Sedro-Woolley. Senior 62+ or disabled. Non smoking, secure building. Accepting applications for 1 & 2 bdrm apts, basic rent 1 bdrm, $673; 2 bdrm, $720 or 30% of adjusted income (whichever is greater) 360-855-1664 TDD 711. Income limits apply.
VIEW LOT NEEDS DREAM HOME. All utilities and approved plans. Owner contract. $119,000. 360-422-5708 www.skagitsolutions.com
1 bdrm, S.W. Very secure, $710/mo. + $350 dep. 360708-6057 2 bdrm house, 312 Union St. 2 bdrm, 1 ba, S.W.,st W/S/G No smoke. Small pet negot. pd. Gas heat. $750, 1 , last + $30 credit ck. $685 + $600 $600 dep. No pets. 421-2416 dep. S/G pd. 360-202-8678 MV 4-plex, 312 S. 20th, 2 Anacortes 3 bdrm rambler, bdrm, 1 ba, W/D, garage, exceptional and comfortable. yard, wood stove, $750/mo. Excellent bargain at $1150. + $500/dep. 360-424-6974. dep. No smoke/pets. Lawn svc provided. 360-770-6800
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 Free Rent. Big lake waterview RV space. $300. No dogs. (206) 778-8147
1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals. Piazza Realty Property Mgmt., Inc. 360-424-RENT (7368) www.prpmrentals.com
2 Bdrm, 1 ¾ Ba, S.W. Garage, W/D, gas heat, approx. 1100 sf., lrg. Closets, built in storage, 1 level. $825/mo. Piazza Property Mgmt., 360-424-7368
MV Clean, newer 2 story home, 3 bdrm, 2 1/2 ba, oversize garage. 2220 Jasmine Pl. $1,200. No smoke/ MV 4-plex, 512 S. 20 th, 2 pet. 360-333-6125 bdrm, 2 ba, 1200 sq. ft., ground floor, garage, deck, Newer rambler on 1 acre, W/D, $800/mo. $500 dep. gated community just N. of 360-424-6974 S.W. 3 bdrm, 2 ba, 3 car garage. All applcs., nature MV 6 plex 427 N. 21st St., 1 trails, pet upon approval. bdrm, 1 ba, lrg. deck, up$1350/mo + dep. Marty 425- stairs, central laundry, car308-0753 port, $625/mo. $400/dep. 360-424-6974
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
21737 STERLING DRIVE, S.W. $339,900
OPEN HOUSE SAT., MAY 12, 12:00-2:00 One level living offering 4 bdrms, den/office, spacious living rm, lg family rm off kitchen & a formal dining rm. Wood frplc in living rm & free standing gas stove in family rm. Enjoy the hot tub located just off the family rm with complete privacy after a game of tennis on the sports court. Attached 2 car garage plus 2 detached outbuildings, one 5100+ s/f & the other building approx. 1900 s/f. MLS# 266058 Call Linda Eastman, (360)202-4075 WRE/Skagit Valley
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
RENTALS
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
Houses & Apartments. See our listings at www.skagitrentals.com Remax Property Mgmt. 823 N. 4th, Mount Vernon 360-424-3198
MV - 2 rooms, $500-$600, incl. util. Smokers & small pet ok. Close to town. 424-3996
S-W Clean 2 Bdrm, all applcs., garage, fenced yard, $850 + dep. 755-0562 or 333-1151 S.W. 1 bdrm, ¾ ba, fridge, stove, W/D, no smoke/pets. $500/mo. (425)743-2850
Free Rent. Big lake waterview RV space. $300. No dogs. (206) 778-8147
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
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 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly
MLS #333454 23643 Post Street, Clear Lake $70,000 only 10% down!!
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
Adorable bungalow in the heart of Clear Lake. Total renovation in 2007. Neat, tidy and ready to move in. Owner will carry the contract on this 1 bedroom 1 full bath home with newer roof, vinyl windows, and oak cabinets. Appliances are included. Storage shed and a great yard for gardening. Total payment with taxes and insurance around $500.00. Simple inexpensive living and it is yours!! RON VAN PELT 360-333-1045 RE/MAX TERRITORY
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 $309,500. JEFF INGMAN (360) 202-2859 Brown McMillen Real Est.
MLS #347131 21214 Wildwood Place Priced to sell! $99,950
QUEEN OF THE HILL
Privacy awaits the buyer of this 5 acre parcel. Located north of Burlington at the end of a dead end road Well and septic, power and phone are installed and building site is prepared. Older single wide will be removed by seller. Impact fees are waived if property is improved within one year Give a call today to explore the possibilities. RON VAN PELT 360-333-1045 RE/MAX TERRITORY
627 Waugh Road 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.
Single wide, old, many upgrades, senior court, 3 bdrm, 1 ½ bath, $12,500. obo. 360-424-8406.
REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com/reweekly
STOP RENTING – BUY! MV 3 / 2 ½, bonus room, garage, large fenced yard, quiet neighborhood. $1445. 360-422-5708 www.skagitsolutions.com
goskagit.com /reweekly
Real Estate Weekly
May May11, 11,20112 2012 11 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. OPEN HOUSES SATURDAY 1-4
2725 E. Fir St., Mt. Vernon,#32, 43, 91 and 121 For Details and directions, visit openhouse.com.
$225,000 MLS#351356 MLS#351611 • 3 bedroom + den • Very well cared
$218,900
• Secluded location • MIL apt • 3 car garage • Rustic 4 bedroom
$289,900
MLS#353121
for • Newer roof • Upgraded
$225,000
• Very unique! • 12 acres • Indoor pool • Organic orchard
MLS#353304
• 160’ Lakefront • Large dock • Incl. furniture & appls • Cozy 2 bedroom
$109,500 MLS#322721 MLS#352925 • 50’ Saltwater frontage
$189,000
• Lg fully fenced yard • New • Fabulous views • 3 bdrm home appliances • 3 bedrooms, RV parking • Detached studio
SOLD
$65,000 $644,500
MLS#232468
• Lake views • 11+ acres • Open gourmet kitchen • Over 3100 sf ranch beauty Anita Kohl 961-7795 Dawn Hardman 540-0058 Duane Gish 770-9299 Dominic Pettruzzelli 333-5210 George Herner 840-3743 Jackie Lindeman 770-9080
North Homes Realty Inc.
$310,000
$189,000
MLS#205974
• Water view • 2 bdrms, lg rec rm • Gated community • Private Jared Storrs 853-6895 Jeff Dowrey 661-2161 Karl Morse 395-5405 Lorie Groth 425-422-7145 Margie Ernst 708-3198 Marlene Deasy 661-6720
Megan Daly 206-383-4407 Mike Newman 708-1419 Noli Goode 630-6527 Paula Margerum 220-0681 Rick Kiesser 770-1195 Sandi Hocking 708-1523
Sandi Riley 770-8670 Sharon Stokes 661-6164 Shaunna Harris 206-715-1623 Traci Cypher 708-9481 Veronica Lopez 420-0696 Prop. Mgmt 542-2134
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2725 E. FIR ST. #91 (PARK VILLAGE) MT. VERNON $34,500
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2725 E. FIR ST. #121 (PARK VILLAGE) MT. VERNON $24,500
OPEN SAT. 1-4 •UPGRADED INSIDE & OUT, ROOMY 1500+ SQ. FT, •3 BD., 2 BA. +FAMILY ROOM W/GAS STOVE, NEW VINYL WINDOWS •NEW FURNACE/H.W. TANK/ HEATPUMP/AC, NEWER FLOOR COVERINGS & MORE!
2725 E. FIR ST. #32 (PARK VILLAGE) MT. VERNON $12,500
11365 WESTERN LANE, (CLEAR LK.) SEDRO-WOOLLEY $209,500
20630 LAFAYETTE RD., BURLINGTON $218,900
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O P E N S AT. 1 - 4 •AFFORDABLE SENIOR LIVING AT IT’S BEST! •UPGRADED 2 BD., 2 BA. W/FAMILY ROOM, + A/C •COVERED DECK, PARKLIKE PATIO, LG. SHOP •GORGEOUS BACK YARD!
BY APPOINTM ENT, CALL SAND I •NEAREST NEIGHBOR 1/4 MI AWAY, YET 1 MI TO BURLINGTON!! PRIVACY+ •RUSTIC CHARM, 4 BD., 2 FULL BA. W/LG. GAR/ SHOP + APT •COUNTY APPROVED “FLOOD WALL/BERMS” SURROUND + LG. “CRITTER PAD” AREA
38182 STATE ROUTE 20 (BIRDSVIEW) CONCRETE $384,500
2610 E. SECTION ST. #52 (LITTLE MTN. EST.) MT. VERNON $48,900
2610 E. SECTION ST. #18, (LITTLE MTN. EST.) MT. VERNON $49,500 ICE PR W NE
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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 $275,000 bath. Large cedar deck. Open kitchen with all appliances. Call 1410 MIDCREST RD., CAMANO Meticulously maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #220167 869 CARRIAGE CT, SDW $89,000 vaulted ceilings. Master suite with jetted tub & 2 sink vanity. Park-like 2.6 acres with large 30x60 drive thru shop with 12’ Immaculate triple wide with 2 bedrooms, 1.75 baths, den, door. Call Rita Ingram at 708-8338. #353358 vaulted ceiling. Kitchen with island & maple cabinets. 10x20
10943 MARY LN, BRL $348,000 Lovely 1 story home with 3 bedrooms, 1.75 baths & nearly 2100 1100 3RD ST., SDW $104,000 SF, large master suite, kitchen with eating bar & pantry. 2 car garage, 2 storage sheds & heated 24x48 shop/garage. Call Alice Cute, affordable 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath home. Gas heat & fireplace. Greenhouse, storage shed & corner lot. Close to town. Hanson at 770-8791. #243332 325 ROSE CT., MV $379,500 Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #272362 Exquisite Tudor in Hill Top. 2651 sq.ft. of captivating charm, with 4 bedrooms & 2.5 baths on over 1/3 acre of blossoming landscape. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #311383 insulated shop with workbench. 55+ community. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #230071
REAL ESTATE CLASSES STARTING NOW! CALL SCOTT 360-540-2121
SANDI RILEY 770-8670
2725 E. FIR ST. #43 (PARK VILLAGE) MT. VERNON $26,500
MLS#200253
• 2 bdrm, 2 bth condo • All appls incl. • Panoramic views • Over 2600 sf. • Freshly painted • Minutes to I-5 • Madrona Beach area • Custom built
2610 E. SECTION ST., #106, MV $32,000 Gated serene retirement community with lovely 2 bedrooms, 2 bath home. Spacious floor plan with carport & storage shed plus nice patio & private park-like back yard. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #299022
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•”OFF RD” SET BACK FOR LOTS OF PRIVACY, TERRIFIC MTN. SURROUND VIEWS •PASTURED 5 AC, LG. SHOP/GAR W/R.V. HOOKUP •SPACIOUS 2678 SQ. FT. HIGH CEILINGED RANCHER, W/3 BD., 2.5 BA., DEN/OFFICE!
•”TOP 5” LITTLE MTN. ESTATES 55+ PARK, CLOSE TO MEDICAL/ SERVICES • 2 BD., 2 BA. OPEN PLAN BEAUTY W/LG. “L-SHAPED” OAK & TILE TRIM KITCHEN •LG. LIV/DINING RM., SUNNY EATING “NOOK”, +GARAGE!
•UPGRADED “MARLETTE” 55+ PARK BEAUTY W/GORGEOUS PATIO/PARKLIKE YD. & PRIVACY •SPACIOUS 2 BD., 2 BA., HUGE “OAK” KITCHEN •NEWER ROOF, PAINT, HEATPUMP/AIR CONDITIONING UNIT, QUALITY ++!!
4307 ROADRUNNER LN, BRL $429,500 Beautiful 1-level home on 1 acre in Bay Meadows. A great floor plan with a grand entrance, high ceilings & upper-end finishes throughout. More info. & photos at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #304877 314 E. FULTON ST., MV $166,000 Classic beauty with a nice front porch. High ceilings & old fashioned built-ins make this home a charming find for the right person. 3 bedrooms, one has built-in trundle bed. The utility is full of cabinets. One car garage. Call Robin Luif at 420-2026. #351648
15002 CHANNEL LN, LAC $435,000 Waterfront home at a great price. 1-story home with wonderful floor plan with spacious rooms & spectacular water views. Large level lot, 2 car garage. Close to LaConner. Call Sarah Minton at 770-3076. #249568
17999 W. BIG LAKE BLVD., MV $449,000 Adorable updated 2 bedroom home LIKE NEW, beautiful 15241 SUNSET LN, MV $219,900 hickory cabinets, fireplace, tankless hot water, 1.75 baths. One-level west MV home with many upgrades. 3 bedrooms, 3 Front deck to enjoy gorgeous lake & mountain views. 100’ of baths, 1680 SF, .35 ac lot. Great home for USDA zero down loan no bank waterfront. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791 or Linda program. More info. & photos at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Eastman at 202-4075. #317967 Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #315145 114363 ROADRUNNER LN, BRL $512,000 4 Bedroom home in Bay View on just shy 1 acre. 3,100+ SF, formal dining, office, bonus room, great room & open floor plan. Butler’s pantry, walk-in pantry, lg. island with granite counters & eating bar. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #307721 13576 BISQUET RIDGE LN, BOW $529,900 5 gorgeous level acres & the most amazing north valley views, Mt Baker & the Cascades! 2286 sq.ft., 3 bedroom, 3 bath rambler. Huge shop with heated office & RV bay. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #326269 17970 PAMELA ST., MV $220,000 Immaculate & charming home in South MV country setting on 1+ acre with detached 2 car garage. Home has 3 bedrooms & bonus room, 2 baths & family room. Gardeners delight plus easy I-5 access. Call Karen Beckner at 840-9455. #351234
24116 N. WESTVIEW RD, BIG LAKE $749,385 Beautiful custom waterfront home, approx. 80’ frontage, unobstructed views of lake, 2900+/- SF. Large family room with gas stove. 4 bedrooms & 4+ bathrooms. 1000 ft. of deck overlooking huge dock with new floats & boat lift. Call George Bellos at 708-9762. #285378
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!