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North Central Washington
Homefinder’s WEEKEND Realtor’s Corner VikkiGildenRealEstate.com ColdwellBankerLaVigne.com
What It Means To Be an ‘EXPERT’ in Real Estate
What got you into Real Estate and what keeps you there?
Sinden Harum Coldwell Banker LaVigne (509) 856-5367
I worked in the interior design industry and discovered the power of design to improve people’s lives. From there I became very aware of home values as it directly affected the advice I gave to my clients on home improvements. It was interesting to see what appealed to buyers, what improvements added value to properties, and why certain things did not add appeal or value. I decided to become a real estate broker because I loved all aspects of homes and real estate from the start of my career and still do.
Where were you born and where did you grow up? I was born in Springfield, Oregon and I grew up in the Seattle area.
What is the most interesting property you have ever listed or sold? Five years ago I listed the 15,000 square foot, circa-1938 Denmark school and teacher’s cottage in Ellensburg. The Denmark School was part of local School District 12 which was established in 1889. I then sold it to my clients, a teacher and an elementary school principle in the Wahluke School District. Since their ownership, the couple has put tens of thousands of dollars into the aging building’s interior renovation as a residence.
What is the most gratifying/challenging thing about the Real Estate Business right now? The most gratifying thing about the Real Estate Business right now is repeat business with people that came into my life as complete strangers, became satisfied clients, then friends and repeat clients. My goal is to become your Real estate broker for life not just for one transaction. Repeat business is one of the most gratifying things about this business. It means you did the job right the first time and that is my goal every time. The most challenging thing for me about this business right now is overcoming the incessant negativity about the market. Clearly we are in a troubled market and no amount of “happy talk” here will fix the problems. My choice is to work with my clients, sticking to a “let’s get tougher than the market” message. Let’s develop an aggressive marketing plan and very strong Internet presence for our listings. Let’s network harder, create irresistible curb appeal that will get buyers through your door, make the property readily available and easy to show at all times, make the listing stand out in every possible way.
Which living person(s) do you most admire? I most admire my daughter and my son, ages 17 and 14. Watching them grow into the beautiful, talented, creative, and brilliant people they have become has been my greatest joy. I am forever grateful for every moment with them and they never cease to amaze me. I am so incredibly fortunate to have them in my life.
What tip would you give to someone buying and/or selling Real Estate in this market?
1. 2. 3.
Work closely with your agent. Take his/her suggestions seriously. If he/she says you should get a new doormat to freshen up the front entry and replace the tattered one or remove the dogs for a showing, it’s important. Sellers- Be careful not to price homes based on key past market values, such as the purchase price of the property, the market value at the time of the most recent refinance or what a comparable property sold for in the past. Your agent can help you determine the most realistic price point for your property using current market values. Buyers- Before you do anything, contact a Realtor. Buying a home is a very important financial decision. It only makes sense to meet with a Realtor, outline your goals, identify potential problems, get advice on neighborhoods, get referrals to lenders that offer VA, FHA, USDA or other great mortgage programs that may save you thousands of dollars and get referrals to other professionals that will help you through the real estate transaction.
What special memberships do you have as a Realtor and what does that mean for your clients? As an active member of the North Central Washington Multiple Listing Service (NCWMLS) AND the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS), I can place listings into two completely different Multiple Listing Service databases. This is extremely important as most buyers search for properties mainly online. Marketing the property in two MLS systems guarantees it can be seen by buyers searching not just in our local market area but across King County, Pierce County and many others. Belonging to both MLS systems guarantees the greatest possible exposure for my client’s listings. In addition to the two MLS memberships, I am a member of the North Central Washington Association of Realtors, Kittitas County Association of Realtors, Washington Association of Realtors, and the National Association of Realtors. I am proud to be part of the largest Real Estate referral networks on local, state, and national levels. I have created a rich network of real people in all aspects of the real estate business over the years and am able to share those connections with my clients from the best lenders, the best inspectors, the best title/escrow companies and all people in between. These connections ensure smooth transactions. Even after the transaction is complete, I help my clients find moving experts, the best glass cleaners, housecleaning, carpet cleaners, contractors and more. I am a broker that works full time in the real estate market and holds memberships at the local, state and national levels because I feel I can best provide my clients with the service they deserve if I am available full time and very aware of the contacts they need, market conditions, changes and news at every possible level.
What do you enjoy doing when you aren’t working? When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my kids, attending their sports activities, cooking, LOTS of DIY projects around the house, scrapbooking, hosting dinners and holiday events, helping friends design and decorate their spaces, photography and much more! I tend to stay very busy with all my projects and would rather be doing just about anything besides sitting or watching TV. Today, I am painting all my patio furniture in a heritage red color and redesigning my entire deck space and outdoor entertaining areas because I was bored with it last season!
From the KCM Blog April 9, 2012 If you are either buying or selling a home in today’s market, you need a real estate expert. However, we must realize what the term ‘expert’ actually means. An expert in any area cannot give perfect advice as no one can predict the future. But they can give excellent advice based on their insight into their field. If you go to an attorney with a legal challenge, he/she will look over your case and give you your options. They realize they cannot guarantee the outcome of any of the options. Still, they give the best advice possible and allow you to decide the option with which you feel most comfortable. They then will put together a strategy which hopefully will bring about the most favorable conclusion. If you go to a doctor with a serious ailment, he/she will give you your options and work with you to develop the best treatment program. They cannot guarantee any program’s success. They will, however, monitor your progress and adjust your treatments or medications. They will stand next to you until the best result is achieved. Real estate is no different. A true real estate professional will understand your options and simply and effectively explain them to you and your family. Once you chose an option, they will strategize a plan to help you accomplish your goals. They will standby you as the process evolves and will help you make the necessary adjustments if necessary. They cannot see the future any better than doctors or attorneys and thus their advice will never be perfect. However, just like those other professionals, an expert agent will give you excellent advice that will bring about the best possible outcome.
$365,000...................WENATCHEE Custom home! Country setting in town! Spacious, excellent daylight rambler floor plan. 5 bedrooms, 3.25 baths, 3,790 sq ft. Open views, big double garage, .51 acre. Bright, open kitchen, wrap around deck, level yard. MLS# 697796 Jacqueline Hurst 860-3963.
$194,900...................WENATCHEE 3 bedroom 2.5 bath 1,505 sq ft 2 story home features: Large master suite with walk-in closet & master bath, laundry room upstairs with bedrooms. Great room, kitchen, dining, 1/2 bath and storage on main floor. RV Parking, Fenced back yard. MLS# 697776 Christie Kay 630-8289.
$179,900...................WENATCHEE Heritage Haven! 2+ bedroom 2 bath home. 1619 sq ft on its own lot. Attached double garage, covered back deck & landscaped yard. 55+ living includes indoor pool, clubhouse, activities, RV Parking available. MLS# 697422 Cindy Seyster 670-6466.
$179,900......................... MALAGA Privacy for Sale! 1638 sq ft, 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath Chalet Style home at Three Lakes. Secluded .34 acre lot surrounded by orchard with beautiful river views. MLS# 697815 Cindy Seyster 670-6466.
$153,900......................... MALAGA Great Price! For this nice well kept 4 bedroom 1.75 bath home. Peaceful quiet location, large fenced back yard, RV parking, Community club house, pool, and lake for fishing. Golf course nearby. MLS# 697750 Vera Salas 670-8596.
$130,000......................... MALAGA 20 acres zoned for 10 acre lots. 2 leveled building sites with driveways, water & power at road. Views of Wenatchee, Cascades, & Columbia from both sites. Build on your favorite with potential to sell the other. MLS# 697786 Russ Andrews 670-6150.
$73,900.....................WENATCHEE
Now, more is less.
New Listing! Fabulous .23 acre lot in well-established Wenatchee Subdivision. Retaining wall is in and it is ready for you to build! Owner contract is possible. MLS# 697793 Becky Long 741-0287.
662-7184 • 1-800-841-0055 www.windermerewenatchee.com
I can help you save money. The more you insure with Allstate, the less you pay. In fact, safe drivers who insure their home and car can save up to 45% on car insurance. Add coverage for your motorcycle, boat or ATV and save even more. Call me first to see how much you can save. Debbie S. Feist, LUTCF (509) 884-4800
342 N. Wenatchee Ave. Wenatchee jasonellard@allstate.com
363 Eastmont Ave. East Wenatchee debbiefeist@allstate.com
DISCOUNT PERCENTAGES VARY BY STATE, include discounts for having multiple Allstate policies/products and are subject to terms and availability. Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL. © 2010 Allstate Insurance Company.
This house is a must see. Large Tri- Level home with an in-ground Larson Pool and a huge shop! All this sitting on a beautifully landscaped .60 of an acre lot. Plenty of room with a large family room and 2nd kitchen that is also plumbed and wired for a hot tub. $299,900, Please Contact GARY MULLEN @ 679-4132 For more information. MLS# 697460
124 SOUTH FRANKLIN—WENATCHEE Historic Wenatchee home that’s loaded with vintage features and character! Spacious living w/fireplace flows into the large dining room and fantastic sun room! Four large bedrooms with wood floors plus an extra room. Tile floors in baths. Lots of cabinets in the kitchen. Detached garage/shop and huge basement for storage. $319,900. Please Contact PAUL MARES @ 670-2119 For more information. MLS# 697565
107 E. MOUNTAIN BROOK LN.—WENATCHEE Beautiful mountain and river views from this custom built 3600+ sf home with attached 4 car garage PLUS a 1200+sf fully finished shop with separate heat, air and 1/2 bath. French Country themed kitchen features top end stainless appliances, 6 burner gas range, wine cooler, walk-in pantry and huge slab granite island. Gas fireplace is open to living and family room with surround sound. $645,000. Please Contact PAUL MARES @ 670-2119 For more information. MLS# 697678
1395 MOUNTAIN VISTA DR.—WENATCHEE ONE OF THE LAST LOTS…In Sunnyslope’s prime Westridge Subdivision! Horses are allowed on this lot. Spectacular views of the Monitor valley, Wenatchee River and Cascades. $124,900. Contact JEANNIE KING @ 679-5151 for more information. MLS # 694115 4 BEDROOM RAMBLER! Gorgeous hardwoods throughout dining, kitchen and nook, rich kitchen cabinetry w/ granite and eating bar. Vaulted living area and high ceilings throughout. Gas fireplace w/ river rock surround..luxurious master suite w/ large walk-in closet, double vanity and jetted tub. Premier neighborhood, vinyl fencing, covered deck. Summer blooms provide plenty of privacy. Move in and enjoy! $334,900. Please Contact HEIDI FAVOR @ 741-2548 For more information MLS# 697622 Updated rambler! New two-toned cabinetry in kitchen with granite surfaces. Cozy family room with fireplace and a separate living room. 3 spacious bedrooms, builtin storage, updated bathrooms, double vanity in both baths, large patio, newer roof, fenced park-like backyard! $269,900. Please Contact HEIDI FAVOR @ 741-2548 For more information MLS# 697751
www.premierone.biz 925 Fifth St., Wenatchee • 662-3491
Contact: Tom
235 N. Mission St. Wenatchee bradhuddle@allstate.com
473 NE. 5TH STREET—EAST WENATCHEE
1681 EASTMONT AVE.—EAST WENATCHEE
RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY! Brad E. Huddle (509) 664-4000
This is a beautiful home with room for everything! 4 bd. 3.5 bath with a HUGE shop and Bonus living space that is wired and plumbed for a 2nd full kitchen. Kitchen has granite countertops with beautiful slate floor. Opens to eating area and nice size family room. Formal Dining room and Living room. Shop and additional living space have separate heat pump. This is a must see! $417,900, Please Contact GARY MULLEN @ 679-4132 For more information. MLS# 697642
1553 HOLLY LN.—EAST WENATCHEE Windermere Real Estate / NCW
Jason Ellard (509) 664-7058
200 ROLLING HILLS LANE—WENATCHEE
Nees
509-860-2091 nees@wenatcheeworld.com Talk To Tom About
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