Real Estate Weekly, October 1, 2021

INSIDE

This Issue HOW MANY BEDROOMS DO YOU NEED IN YOUR NEXT HOME? PAGE 5

MAKING A NEW PLACE YOUR HOMETOWN PAGE 7 CLASSIFIEDS PAGE 7

OCT. 1-7, 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS How many bedrooms do you need in your next home?...........................................P5

INSIDE PAGE

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Q&A Ask Our Broker.......................................................................P6

Making A New Place Your Hometown..............P7 Classifieds............................................................................P7

RE-Weekly To advertise in RE-Weekly or other Skagit Publishing publications, Call: 360.416.2180 or Email: ads@skagitads.com ©2021 by Skagit Publishing | All rights reserved.

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October 1, 2021

STAT Real Estate Stat

5.88 Million The total number of housing units sold in the month of August 2021.

Source: National Association of Realtors

525 East College Way, Suite J

Mount Vernon, WA 98273

(360) 416-4902

www.npsar.realtor

FEatuREd REaltY:

20787 W Bulson Rd, stanWood

Six Signs You Are Ready To Buy If you are thinking about buying, you're not alone. So are you ready to make the move? You might be if you: 1. Are familiar with the market. If you've been paying attention to how much houses are listed for in the area you’d like to live, you're in good shape.

2. Have the money for a down payment and closing costs. Generally, buyers will receive an estimate of these costs from your lender after you apply for a mortgage.

3. Know how much you can afford. Your monthly mortgage payment should be less than or equal to a percentage of your income. Also, your income, debt and credit history go into determining how much you can borrow.

4. Know what additional expenses will come with owning a home. Including homeowners insurance, utilities, and maintenance costs.

5. Have your credit in good shape and make sure your credit report is accurate. You should get a report from each of the three credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union.

6. You haven't made any recent major purchases, particularly a vehicle. If you do, you may have a harder time getting a loan, or it could potentially lower the amount you'll be approved for.

Realtor.com~Michele Dawson Mission Statement: The North Puget Sound Association of Realtors advocates for Realtors and their clients, and promotes the protection of property rights.

October 1, 2021

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skagit tradition Realty llC 3780 E. College Way Mount Vernon, Wa 360-424-0300 www.skagittraditionrealty.com

$350,000

Danya Wolf

360-708-8294

Beautiful wooded 4.98 acres situated on south side of Snohomish County/ Skagit County line. Power is in street. Solar power is also possible.

Adjacent property to the east of Subject Property is fenced, open field. Zoning allows for one building site. Stanwood-Camano School District; and just ten minutes to I-5.

Great country living yet convenient for commuting. MLS# 1841822

14633-1

NORTH PUGET SOUND ASSOCIATION of REALTORS®

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

Record-low interest rates and record-low housing prices are renewing interest in the floundering housing market for many people.

“When sellers are interviewing real estate agents to market their homes, their primary focus is usually on the advertising that the agent will offer them,” says Jessica Goodbody of Weichert Realtors.

Let us help you meet your marketing goals by advertising your listings in Real Estate Weekly.

Call 360.416.2180 Today!

B

RealEstate weekly In print and online goskagit.com ads@skagitads.com

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October 1, 2021

bedrooms in their house,” explains Jay Kallos, senior vice president of Architecture for Ashton Woods Homes in Roswell, Georgia.

Ask an expert how many bedrooms they’d recommend when shopping for a home and you’ll likely get a variety of responses.

“Based on what we’ve seen, two to three bedrooms tend to be the sweet spot. But you should mirror local market trends to maximize resale value. That means comparing the size and number of bedrooms in homes recently sold in your neighborhood to give you the best idea of what buyers are looking for,” Crompton suggests.

Christine Sparacino, broker/owner of RE/MAX Sparrow Realty, recommends that first-time purchasers claim a home with as many bedrooms as they can comfortably afford.

“More bedrooms help keep the resale value up,” says Sparacino. She adds that, if this is not your forever home and you plan on moving in not yet had all the children rooms are also more affordsingle-family homes has been homes started with two or

By Erik J. Martin they are going to have,” says a few years, you want to be fewer bedrooms and at least able, which is an important on the decline over the past five bedrooms had shares of criterion for first-time buyers Marks, noting that many of sure the home will appeal to Take stock of your home for five years, per U.S. Census the next buyer. “Regardless, I these twenty- and thirtyand millennials. Building merely 11 percent and nine Bureau data. Single-family a moment. How many of would try to have at least one somethings currently don’t costs, mortgages, property percent, respectively. homes with four or more its bedrooms are currently need and can’t afford homes bedroom with a full bath on Why are most new homes taxes, and ongoing maintebedrooms dropped from in regular use? Unless the nance costs are all impacted with four or more bedrooms. the first floor so that you or 44.8 percent in 2017 to 43.5 featuring three or fewer answer is “all of them,” it’s Boomers are another gen- a future owner won’t have to bedrooms today? The reasons by your home’s size. The fair to ask if your residence is percent in 2018, based on use the stairs.” eration driving the current smaller the home, the less are plentiful, even if overall rightly sized for your family’s the most recent numbers.

Remember: Those excess you have to pay – both in the smaller home trend. square footage is not.

That may not sound like needs.zz bedrooms not in everyday “Many baby boomers are short and long-term.”

“As housing density much of a dip, but it syncs On the other end of the use can always be converted downsizing and sometimes Gordy Marks, a managwith a snowballing trend to- increases in large urban areas, spectrum, maybe you have to other living spaces, like relocating to be closer to kids or housemates who have ward smaller new homes over we see more builders and de- ing broker with RE/MAX children and grandchildren. a home office, hobby zone, velopers building on smaller Northwest in Kirkland, to share a bedroom. Regard- the past several years. New They no longer need the big game room, or home theater.

Washington, says Gen Y single-family residences with lot sizes, which means less less, the same question ap“A bedroom can be turned plays a significant role in the family house with several space for extra bedrooms,” three bedrooms accounted plies: How many bedrooms into a den easier than the bedrooms to accommodate for 45 percent of new home says David Crompton, head smaller homes trend. are enough for the typical “Millennials represent the holidays and parties like they other way around,” says Jeff of construction for Seattlestarts as of 2018, versus 34 owner or family? did in the past, so they are largest buying group nowaBenach, principal of Chicaheadquartered Pro.com.

Consider that the average percent for those with four “New homes with fewer bed- days, and that age group has comfortable cutting off a few go-based Lexington Homes. number of bedrooms in new or more bedrooms. New

How many bedrooms do you need in your next home?

October 1, 2021

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Balancing your needs in a bidding war Question: We live in a hot real estate market.

Homes sell almost immediately and bidding wars are common. Our broker says that to be competitive when making an offer we should drop requests for such things as home inspections, financing, and appraised value. What are the risks if we don’t ask for such protections?

Answer: Redfin reported that in April almost 75% of the offers written by its agents were for properties with multiple offers, up from 45% a year earlier.

Given a widespread inventory shortage, low mortgage rates, and high levels of demand, the competition for available homes is often red-hot.

Buyers want an edge in the bidding process and are often willing to make offers above the seller’s asking price and without contingencies -- extra requirements added to standardized sale agreements.

While desperation is the parent of such offers -and although it may be difficult to make a successful bid that includes traditional contingencies -- such a strategy has risks.

First, when you make an offer to buy real estate it typically includes a deposit, thousands of dollars

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to assure the seller that you intend to complete the transaction. In the case of an offer without contingencies, it may not be possible to get out of the deal without losing your deposit if the property turns out to have problems, a huge penalty.

Second, to preserve your deposit, you might go through with the transaction and thus buy a home that really doesn’t meet your needs or preferences.

You can be stuck with it for years.

Real estate agreements can be written to favor the seller or the buyer. Standard agreements widely used by brokers in a given community generally offer some balance between the parties and are designed to avoid future disputes. However, standardized agreements may not reflect your particular needs and preferences and for that reason, you may want to add contingencies.

Like sale agreements, contingencies can favor the buyer or the seller. For instance, a contingency might say that the buyer has the right to have a home inspection within so many days. Such language does not require the seller to make repairs, and it does not allow the buyer to end the transaction without penalty.

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Q&A

ASK OUR BROKER

By Peter G. Miller

A second inspection contingency might give the buyer the right to have a property inspection and require the seller to make all repairs, otherwise, the deal is off. Owners will object to such language because it does not limit their liability.

A third property inspection clause might say that the buyer can get a property inspection and that the seller will be responsible for repairs up to a certain dollar amount. This might work for both buyer and seller.

Another approach might say that the property inspection must be “satisfactory” to the buyer, otherwise, the deal is off. This language gives the purchaser leverage to re-negotiate the offer. Maybe the inspection will be “satisfactory” to the buyer if the seller agrees to replace the old refrigerator with a specific make and model.

The list of alternative contingency approaches could go on. The bottom line is this: contingencies are complex. Speak with an attorney, legal clinic, or real estate broker for more information. Be sure to ask about the pros and cons of contingency-free offers.

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

October 1, 2021

RE-Weekly

CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Houses for Sale

NEW TODAY

514 Lakeside Drive, Sedro-Woolley $599,900 Open House October 2nd, 12-2 October 3rd, 11-1 Three bedrooms, 3 ½ bathrooms, 3,451 SF. MLS #1846560

Making A New Place Your Hometown

By Marilyn Kennedy Melia More Americans have been making big moves: Out of an urban center to an outlying suburb, or to new towns and cities that promise more affordable, easier living.

Except that, initially, the quest for more enjoyable living may not feel very comfortable, caution people who’ve felt the loneliness a new locale can engender.

Make-up artist and author Mandie Brice, who’s moved to a new metropolitan area every two years for the past six-plus says she tries to remember the pain of feeling lost amid unfamiliar people and surroundings, because as an introvert, that’s how she fights the temptation to “decide it’s easier to stay home” rather than go to October 1, 2021

one of the activities she’s scheduled.

She’s found local events on the Meetup app, Facebook groups, and the Eventbrite site where she can chat with new people.

Indeed, there are proven strategies that can help you rooted, say those who’ve relocated and real estate professionals:

Every town has organizations to volunteer at, like the library or a local school, suggests Alison Bernstein, founder of real estate advisory Suburban Jungle.

nKeep a daily routine.

When she moved from Orlando, FL to Los Angeles, “I would mainly go to the gym at the same time and after nOld friends lead to new ones.

People who already know you “are you go consistently you start seeing likely to know someone you’d be com- the same people,” shares UCLA stupatible with and have fun with,” says dent Genesis Gutierrez..

Brice. Ask friends and family to give you referrals of anyone they know in nAsk your agent for introductions.

Since real estate agents are in the an area, and post your plea on social media so that your entire network can people-moving business, your agent make suggestions. in your new hometown might be able to connect you with others who’ve nFind structured activities you’ll recently moved from out-of-town. enjoy.

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Come see this gorgeous and spacious Glenhaven Lakes home with amazing master suite, vaulted ceilings, grand kitchen and much more. Nestled in a tranquil, wooded setting.

Geri Cole, 360-391-1614 WRE/Skagit Valley Windermereskagit.com

RENTALS Apartments Unfurnished

NEW TODAY Alpine Ridge Retirement Apartments in MV is accepting applications for 2 Bdrm apts. Income limits apply. 360-424-9622 for more info.

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Thank You

FoR Voting US Skagit’s Best Real Estate Office

WINNER

819 n 18tH, Mount VeRnon $549,900

64193 e CaSCade dRiVe, MaRBleMount

So unique in a gorgeous setting. This is the time of year to relax on your deck while smelling the aroma of dinner on the grill and enjoying the sound of the water feature. While you look over to the beautiful territorial hills, crack open your beverage and be grateful you found this perfect lot to begin your summer.

Carla Fischer Sherry Ruderman MLS# 1783232 360-982-0010 360-540-1552

Home on the hill, close to shopping, schools and medical.

This home features 6 bedrooms and 2 baths with 2 additional bonus bedrooms in the garage (easily convert back to a 2-car garage).

Plenty of parking, nice size yard with mature landscaping.

Danya Wolf MLS# 1811049 360-708-8294

Peace and serenity await you at this location in Cascade River Park. Be soothed by the sounds of the river and breathe in deeply the fresh forest air. P/T or F/T living at this spot. There’s plenty of room for friends or family to bring their trailer to the covered lot behind the well-maintained 1 bedroom manufactured home. Outbuildings, septic, solar; all you need to experience comfort in the gorgeous setting Carla Fischer Sherry Ruderman of the Cascades. MLS#1836792

Eighty (80) acres with development potential of multiple building tracts.

Mostly woods including Western Red Cedar and Douglas Fir, Cottonwood; Alder; and Birch; with one large pond great for duck hunting toward the northerly portion of the 80 acres, some meadows, one small beaver pond, plenty of walking trails or bring your ATV; and an old dug well near the old home site by the southerly edge of the property to the east of the gate.

Future home site/pasture land along the southwesterly edge of the property. Shown by appointment.

Danya Wolf MLS# 1568051 360-708-8294

41546 SoutH Skagit HigHway, Finney CReek $80,000

64233lookout Mountain loop#1-179,MaRBleMount $46,000

45249 neSika tRail #2d33, lake tyee

1203 e SeCtion St, Mt VeRnon

44979 kaCHeSS tRail, d3-a6, lake tyee $74,000

wateRFRont Beautiful 1.71 acres of amazing recreational waterfront property.

Enjoy swimming, walking on the beach or just watching the wildlife.

Carla Fischer MLS# 1800415 360-982-0010

JoAnn Boudreau (360) 391-0746

Patricia Box Office Manager/Broker O: (360) 424-0300 C: (360) 941-9186

Partial off grid cabin in Cascade River Park. Recreational lot or Full Time living! It’s really 2 cabins you can use or make it one! Water, Septic, Propane ready, Inverter setup, bring your batteries. 2 small extra outbuildings, one for generator other for whatever. Also, 3rd large tall log framed lean to structure for your ORVs, wood for the wood stove in the cabin.

Other cabin is set up for propane.

Huge front porch and large fire pit when it’s safe again! Room for large garden! Best, most beautiful hiking around and White water kayak or rafting! Worth every penny and then some.

Carla Fischer Sherry Ruderman MLS#1829367

Juanita Bunch 360-941-5530

360-982-0010

Carla Fischer (360) 982-0010

360-540-1552

Elva Hunter (360) 202-3086

360-982-0010

$179,000

360-540-1552

$45,000

Fantastic location in the foothills of the North Cascades!

This great location and fantastic park model at Lake Tyee is ready for you. Enjoy hiking, fishing, and other amenities in the resort or cozy up with hot chocolate while you relax in your pj’s away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This is the perfect spot to get away. Monthly dues $162 includes water, septic and garbage. Set up your appointment today.

MLS# 1813269 Carla Fischer Sherry Ruderman 360-982-0010 360-540-1552 Call Sherry with any questions.

H St Rd., Blaine

$1,200,000

$599,900

new pRiCe!

John Hunter (360) 202-3086

Suzanne Jenkins (360) 941-2983

Contemporary 2 story home offers 7 bedrooms plus a bonus room! Open floor plan, spacious kitchen, 3.5 baths, recessed lighting and skylights.

Spacious covered porch for relaxing before, after or instead of work. Located in a desirable neighborhood, close to schools, shopping, medical and easy commute to I-5.

Danya Wolf MLS# 1810956

Phil LaMay (360) 840-3086

360.424.0300

360-708-8294

Russ Lanker (360) 708-1117

118 E ORANGE AVE, BURLINGTON

$399,990

NEW PRICE!!! Great opportunity for a small business. Includes commercial kitchen & other restaurant equipment. Great space out back for outdoor dining/drive-thru. There is parking and storage. It’s located just one door from one of the busiest corners in Burlington; E Orange Ave & Burlington Blvd.

Upstairs there is 1BR/.75BA and den. The possibilities are endless in this fast growing community.

MLS# 1780005 Sherry Ruderman Carla Fischer Call Sherry with any questions.

360-982-0010 360-540-1552

4968 kullaH tRail #2d-15, lake tyee $179,000 Peace and tranquillity is what you will experience at this location.

With views of the mountains, hillsides and the lake, you’ll never want to be anywhere else.

The huge covered deck is where you’ll want to be when you have your morning cup of coffee, overlooking these gorgeous views. Come and get away at this quiet and serene spot or bring your family and friends to enjoy and make lasting memories at Lake Tyee. Monthly dues $162/mo with 210 days/ Carla Fischer Sherry Ruderman year use. MLS#1836833 360-982-0010 360-540-1552

Kim Schlimmer (360) 661-7670

Brett Tacker (360) 840-7931

Danya Wolf Designated Broker/ Owner (360) 708-8294

3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon

www.skagittraditionrealty.com 131454-1

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October 1, 2021