Real Estate Weekly December 11, 2020

INSIDE

This Issue

DIVE INTO A DIFFERENT KIND OF POOL – BILLIARDS, THAT IS PAGE 5 “GOING FOR THE EXTRA YARD” PAGE 7 CLASSIFIEDS PAGE 7

DEC 11-DEC 17, 2020

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INSIDE PAGE

5

Q&A

Ask Our Broker.......................................................................P4

Dive into a different kind of pool – billiards, that is ................................................P5 “Going For The Extra Yard”......................................P7 Classifieds............................................................................P7

RE-Weekly To advertise in RE-Weekly or other Skagit Publishing publications, Call: 360.416.2180 or Email: ads@skagitads.com ©2020 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

Cathy West Oak Harbor Escrow Manager/LPO 360.679.5055

525 East College Way, Suite J

Brandi Jensen Stanwood Escrow Manager/LPO 360.629.9737

Katey Von Hagel Marketing Representative 360.707.1076

LAND TITLE AND ESCROW W

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Shelley Nevitt Anacortes Escrow Manager/LPO 360.299.0565

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Service you deserve with people you trust Visit any of our 5 locations in Oak Harbor, Burlington, Freeland, Stanwood and Anacortes

Ltco.com 2

Holly Mathers Island County Title Manager 360.675.2246

2025889

Mount Vernon, WA 98273 (360) 416-4902

www.npsar.realtor

Things Home Inspectors Can’t Tell You 

Christa Canell Freeland Escrow Manager/LPO 360.331.4838

Unless otherwise noted, all photographs, artwork and ad designs printed are the sole property of Skagit Publishing and may not be duplicated or reprinted without express written permission.

Skagit Publishing is not responsible for typographical or production errors or the accuracy of information provided by advertisers.

NORTH PUGET SOUND ASSOCIATION of REALTORS®

Shelley Miner Burlington Escrow Manager/LPO 360.707.2312

Eldon Brown Skagit County Manager 360.707.2158

that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

For further information call HUD Toll Free at 1-800-669-9777.

All Houses subject to prior changes without notice. Neither advertisers nor Skagit Publishing are responsible for any errors in the ad copy. Skagit Publishing reserves the right to refuse any advertising, which we deem unsuitable for our publication.



Whether They Would Buy This House: Her e’s the big one: Many buyers think an inspector will give them a thumbs up or thumbs down, but they can’t.

Giving real estate advice violates the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors’ code of ethics.

If It Has Termites, Rats, or Mold: Yikes! You might assume this tr io of homewreckers would be part of every house inspection checklist, but your inspector isn’t licensed to look for them.

If That Outlet Behind the Couch Actually Works: An inspector can only check what they can see without moving anything. This means the foundation could be cracked behind that wood paneling in the basement. Or the electrical outlet behind the sofa might not work.

Whether They've Inspected the Roof Closely: Some inspector s will climb up on the roof to look closely at shingles and gutters - but they’re not required to. If it’s raining or icy, or the roof is steep or more than two stories high, they can stay on the ground and report what they can see from there.

What You Should Freak Out About (or Not): It’s an inspector’s job to find things wrong with the house. Big things, little things, all the things.

A checkmark next to a crumbling foundation will look the same as a checkmark next to chipped paint.

Read more at: https://www.houselogic.com/buy/house-hunting/

Mission Statement: The Nor th Puget Sound Association of Realtor s advocates for Realtor s and their clients, and promotes the protection of property rights.

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December 11, 2020

STAT Real Estate Stat

83 million Nearly 83 million adults — 1 in 3 — reported it was somewhat or very difficult for their household to cover usual expenses in the past seven days, according to data collected November 11-23.

Source: Household Pulse Survey

FEATURED HOME, FROM COVER 414 SNOQUALMIE STREET, MOUNT VERNON

WinDERMERE REAl EsTATE/skAgiT VAllEy 360-424-4901 • www.windermereskagit.com

$465,000

JIM GLACKIN 360-428-2828 Excellent investment property or potential for small campus for legal services/professional office.

Three buildings - all in very good condition - one easily converted to residence. Professional office, hair salon & chiropractic clinic are tenants. Long term tenants, no vacancy over owner’s term - two tenants over 10 years. City hall, county courthouse, post office, I-5 within blocks of property. New HVAC in office building, property very well maintained. Generous off-street parking. MLS # 1611713

2038576

December 11, 2020

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December 11, 2020

room or larger.

• 9-foot professional pool tables (50” x 100” playfield), for which at least a 14.5’ x 18.5’ space is needed.

“A larger table allows for a bigger space to play, but typically requires more skill as pockets are further apart.

Smaller tables are better for beginners and kids, as the table is much more confined and the space between the pockets is shorter and less challenging,” notes Repetowski, who says that any size table is always rectangular at a two-to-one ratio (for example, a 9-foot table measures 9’ x 4.5’).

“Pool tables are primarily made of wood or metal and often designed for either a more modern style or a distinctly antique style, with a variety of felt colors to fit your decor,” Turner says.

“Pay attention to the quality and strength of the felt and pocket materials as well as the build quality and frame materials.”

It’s best if you can visit a brick-and-mortar store that sells tables so that you can view it in person, inspect the quality, and test the gameplay. But even if you select an online retailer, “look for com“Many people are also placing panies that offer free delivery a ping-pong conversion top that fits your table for double pool tables in their dining and installation, as this will room or formal living room, make getting a heavy pool the fun. as not many homeowners But this isn’t like buying a table in your home much use these rooms very often. portable basketball hoop or simpler,” advises Turner. backyard volleyball net. A lot Whichever area you desigExpect a pool table to weigh of careful planning, measur- nate, it has to have minimum around 700 pounds or more; spatial dimensions in which ing, and dollars are required count on spending at least to prevent pool table buyer’s to comfortably play.” $2,000 for a good table that Most pool tables come in remorse. should last 10 years or longer.

“A good candidate is a home- three sizes: • 7-foot pool tables (spanning Remember to also save owner with or without kids, room in the area for all the a 38” x 78” field of play), especially someone with a recommended accessories – lower level or basement where which requires a minimum including several cues, a wall room size of approximately you’re likely going to have a rack to store them, bridge 13’ x 16.5’ if you use stanlot more space for a table,” stick, 8-ball triangle, 9-ball explains James Grimaldi, dard-size 58-inch cues. diamond, table brush, underpartner/owner of Century • 8-foot pool tables (44” x rail brush, a box of chalk, and Billboards & Game Room in 88” field of play), in which East Northport, New York. you need a 13.5’ x 17.5’ ample overhead lighting.

Dive into a different kind of pool – billiards, that is

by Erik J. Martin eel like you’re behind the 8-ball with work pressures and homequarantining doldrums? Got the staycation blues?

Rack up some appreciation points from your family and partake in an addictive new pastime, all without leaving home, by adding a pool table to your abode – provided you have the room and budget to accommodate this large and handsome piece of fun furniture.

Chris Turner, the owner of Sawyer Twain, a supplier of game room furniture in Chino, California, says a room

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December 11, 2020

How to shop for a pool table equipped with the right-sized pool table and accessories can be a great place for friends and kin to gather for hours of good-natured competition and enjoyment.

“A pool table allows you to spend time with housemates while disconnecting from distracting devices. You can also hone your focus and hand-eye coordination as you work on perfecting your aim. Plus, it will make you a big hit with your kids,” he says.

Unlike many board games and sports, you can even play pool games by yourself – like

15 in a row or solo 8-ball – or practice your skills alone.

But chances are you’ll likely be hosting an assortment of visitors following a pool table purchase, as your home will probably be a more popular destination.

“While coronavirus lingers, you can play pool with others while still social distancing, so long as participants wear a mask, remain on the other side of the table, and don’t share a pool cue,” notes Chris Repetowski, editor of TheGamesGuy.com.

Additionally, you can pick up

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Q&A

Small loans Question:

We expect to retire in the next year or so. We have owned our house for many years and have gotten the mortgage balance down to about $40,000. Our problem is that we have a 4.5% interest rate and would like to refinance. We can’t find a lender to help us. What can we do?

Answer:

Small first mortgages can be attractive to lenders. They likely have a small loan-to-value ratio. A small loan doesn’t represent much lender risk, and that’s a plus. Lastly, small loans tend to be very affordable, so borrowers can generally qualify.

That said, small loans represent a big problem for lenders.

Mini-loans are small by definition, and lenders have fixed costs. The way lending rules are set up perfectly-qualified small loan borrowers routinely cannot refinance.

“Smaller mortgages,” explains The Pew Charitable Trusts, “are not inherently riskier to make than larger loans. But lenders are nevertheless reluctant to offer small loans because market and regulatory forces make small mortgage

ASK OUR BROKER

By Peter G. Miller

lending unattractive. Specific factors include high origination costs; expensive regulatory requirements - regardless of loan size; insufficient appraisal data - particularly in lower-cost neighborhoods; and a compensation structure tied to the size of the mortgage - the larger the loan, the greater the commission - meaning that the amount of work required to issue and service a small loan is about the same as for a large one, but the return is much less.”

To have a “qualified mortgage” under the federal Ability-toPay rule, total points and fees are capped by loan size. For qualified mortgages, which provide creditors with certain liability protections under the Ability-to-Repay Rule, the maximum threshold for total points and fees in 2020 looks like this: • 3% of the total loan amount for a loan greater than or equal to $109,898; • $3,297 for a loan amount greater than or equal to $65,939 but less than $109,898; • 5% of the total loan amount for a loan greater than or equal to $21,980 but less than $65,939;

• $1,099 for a loan amount greater than or equal to $13,737 but less than $21,980; • and 8% of the total loan amount for a loan amount less than $13,737.

In other words, a lender can charge fees and points equal to 5% for a $40,000 refinance. That’s $2,000. However, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), it cost $7,138 per loan on average to originate the typical loan in the second quarter. The numbers just don’t work.

As an alternative, consider this: Take the money that would have been spent to refinance and use it to reduce your current loan balance. This will reduce the debt and the interest cost.

It might pay to call the loan servicer and ask if they will agree to a curtailment. This means you will make a big one-time payment if they will modify the loan and reduce the monthly payment for principal and interest. They may say yes or no; it doesn’t hurt to ask.

Email your real estate questions for Mr. Miller to peter@ctwfeatures.com.

own the local real estate market expand your reach when you combine the power of our digital audience and premium print ads in the re weekly ask your multimedia account executive for details.

ContaCt: 360.424.3251 • ads@skagitads.Com 6

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December 11, 2020

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CLASSIFIEDS

RAMBLER STYLE HOME 3 bedroom, 1.5 baths, with mature orchard on 1.53 acres in a park like setting. Located at the top of the hill on Dewey Beach with a view. 1604 sq. ft., built in 1965.

Workshop, 2 car garage, metal roof, hardwood floors, electric heat with appliances. $525,000.

Call 360-303-6373 15435 Deception Rd., Anacortes.

“Going For The Extra Yard” From: Marilyn Kennedy Melia

transportation hubs some now want more outdoor space.

Knowing that the he suburban pandemic upended home and many consumer prefyard that many of today’s home erences, the National buyers remember Association of Realfrom their childhood tors {NAR} decided is gaining a renewed to conduct its usual attraction – but with annual “Community caveats. & Transportation After years of home Preferences Survey” shoppers saying they twice in 2020, once would rather have a in February and then home with a small again at the end of yard in exchange for July, to better gauge a “walkable” location trends. near stores, schools, “The latest survey restaurants, and showed that a major-

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December 11, 2020

ity – 56 percent – of GenZ and Millennials with children in school now prefer a large yard in a driving community, which represents an 11 percent increase from the number recorded in February when the majority of respondents noted their preference for a smaller yard in a ‘walkable’ community,” says Hugh Morris, NAR Smart Growth Manager.

The NAR survey let respondents self-

define what a large or small yard means, but Lesley Deutch of John Burns Real Estate Consulting thinks that most buyers want just enough space for a swing set, barbeque, and to let a dog roam.

Arlington, VA landscape architect Jennifer Horn says that buyers may not need an expansive yard to live the outdoor life. “If one thinks creatively,” she says, “even a narrow townhouse can provide a

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much-needed connection with the outdoors.

Even outdoor kitchens, a sought after amenity, can require relatively little yardage.

Indeed, she sees a “minimum of 10 square feet” for a basic island. “We’ve done some very simple, but useful, islands with a grill, side burner and trash storage drawer.”

A 2017 survey from home builder Taylor Morrison found that

2 Bdrm house with loft on 1/4 acre, needs remodeled but is livable, asking $159,500. To view call 520-221-1607 or 360-840-3292.

a majority of buyers of all ages would sacrifice a large home for a yard with ‘breathing room’ or a sense of privacy from neighbors.

Fencing efficiently achieve a private feel, says Horn, but if there is some yard space, a layer of plantings provide more of a buffer.

10 - January 29, 2019

7

511 SHADy lANE, MOUNT VERNON ERNON

$360,000 657 HUMpHREy plACE, BURlINGTON Beautiful views from T cheery home offers a vaulted ceiling This 3 bath Hansell Mitzel

$499,000

this 5 bedroom, Home built with many upgrades, built on the “perfect” cul de sac, fenced yard; with a country feel yet wonderful location for commuting to Bellingham, Anacortes, or Everett/Lynnwood/ Marysville. Lighted stone pillars at end of driveway welcome you home. Covered front porch offers seclusion for one’s morning cup of coffee or tea; hardwood entry; wainscoting; air conditioning; under cabinet lighting, pantry; and granite countertops in baths.

Back yard offers custom decking and incredible sunset views. Danya Wolf 360-708-8294 MLS# 1679704

living room with natural gas fireplace; covered patio; large dining area; lovely kitchen with all appliances and walk-in pantry/storage closet; master suite with walk-in closet and bath with easy

step-in shower; guest bedroom and bath; 18582 CASCADE RIDGE CT.,MOUNT VERNON $998,000 Elegant finish work in this 3130 square 5+ Acres and a full sized utility room with a deep sink. foot custom home: European hardwood floors with inlay; 3 fireplaces, one which is open to both the country kitchen and the dining room; 3 large bedrooms, two with a “Jack and Jill” bath; 2 family rooms. Plenty of parking. 36 X 36 barn with three stables; a tack room; a storage room; plus a loft.

Three separate fenced areas for horses, plus an outdoor arena.

Wonderful trails throughout the wooded portion of the acreage.

Danya Wolf MLS# 1673949 360-708-8294

Stonebridge Community offers RV storage, clubhouse and walking

trails.

MLS#1694796

Danya Wolf

360-708-8294

1102 S. 21ST. STREET, MOUNT VERNON NEW PRICE!

3092 GAlENA DR., CAMANO ISlAND

$349,000 22904 BUMBlEBEE lANE, MOUNT VERNON $950,000

Great 3 bedroom Mount Vernon home on the hill nearby Little Mountain Elementary and Mount Baker Middle schools. Offers kitchen with lots of cabinets, all appliances included; updated vinyl windows, fresh paint inside and out, one car garage, large yard with patio, blueberry and marionberry bushes! Yum! Parking for small RV or boat. Heat pump/central heating and air conditioning provides year round comfort. 325 square foot garage (per Skagit County Assessor). Mostly fenced. Danya Wolf 360-708-8294 MLS#1689654

$350,000

Custom built Camano Island rambler. Built with quality materials throughout. Great starter or retirement home.

Beautiful stamped concrete driveway and covered porches, 50 year metal roof, Granite counters, Cherry Wood Cabinets, CVG (Clear Vertical Grain) Douglas Fir trim and interior doors, porcelain tile flooring, luxuriously padded carpet, freestanding propane stove, tankless water heater. Storage shed with loft.

Covered porches have foundation walls/footings. Roof and foundation already there - making for a easy addition if desired. All appliances, TV, BBQ grill, smoker and patio furniture Suzanne Jenkins Carla Fischer (360) 941-2983 (360) 982-0010 included. MLS# 1693329

360.424.0300

7 cAr cOVereD PArKING

Special property on a very private 1.5 acres minutes from town. Custom handcrafted, Craftsman home featuring 2278 sqft, office main level master & second master upstairs. Dining & living room showcasing custom stain glass windows. Kitchen w/ granite counters, handcrafted cabinets.

Beautiful oak floors. Detached MIL home 702 sq ft 1 bd & 1 bath w/2 car garage.

Separate 1080 sqft. shop & Pond and Waterfall. Total of 7 garage and shop parking spaces! Car lift included too! Fabulous home! MLS# 1494916 Danya Wolf Elva Hunter 360-708-8294

7704 SIlVER lAkE ROAD, MAplE FAllS

360-202-3086

$349,000

This home ‘lives bigger’ than its stated size of 1491 sq.ft., offering 2 beds, plus bonus room, 1 3/4 baths on a large lot with ample parking, a detached 2 car garage and a HUGE storage building. The kitchen has a large pantry, skylight and plenty of cupboard/counter space.

Master has a large shower with an oversized vanity and a walk-in closet. Living area features vaulted ceilings and ceiling fan. Main bath has 2 doors for easy access to the laundry room and the outdoors. This home is set back from the road and has a beautiful front yard or you can enjoy the privacy of the large Patricia Box yard in the back, as well.

Sherry Ruderman Office Manager/Broker MLS# 1694535 360-540-1552 O: (360) 424-0300 C: (360) 941-9186

3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon

www.skagittraditionrealty.com 2038743

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