The Real Estate Book of North King & Snohomish Counties, WA: Volume 27, Issue 11.

NORTH KING AND SNOHOMISH COUNTIES, WA

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VE TO IMPROE L R E SA VALUE

HOME & LIFESTYLE GUIDE Volume 27, Issue 11

Private Waterfront WESTERLY VIEWS OF THE SAN JUANS Text R1120384 to 52187

RealEstateBook.com To Advertise, Call Sharman @ 360-333-9566

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KELLI LANG 360-929-2217 RE/MAX Gateway Cover home on page 9.

2/3/2019 5:29:49 PM

Snohomish Windermere

4, SNOHOMISH 1938 historic charmer w/ lost of updates. 3BD 2.5BA 2536sf w/ storybook appeal. Rambler style living + finished basement & den/4th BD. Alley access, whimsical gardens, RV parking. Curved front door too!

Call 360-568-1537

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EVERETT Gated private drive meanders you to this stunning NEW 4BD 3BA 2793sf home on 1/2 acre backing to greenbelt.

Rambler living + fully finished lower level. Wood floors, stone wrapped fireplace, upscale kitchen, & covered deck.

Call 360-568-1537

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LAKE STEVENS New 4BD 2.75BA 2553sf on 1+ acre. Wood beams, inset cabinets, Pottery Barn hardware, shiplap & stone finishes. Vaulted shiplap ceiling & wood beam wrap the Master.

Upper bonus loft. Main floor guest BD & 3/4 BA. Call 360-568-1537

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SNOHOMISH Victorian 4BD 2.5BA 3918sf on 1 acre. Curved stone front porch, quaint English Garden, 18’ ceilings, graceful arches, 2 fireplaces, formal dining, extra large family room + bonus room, craft room & main floor den with outside entrance!

Call 360-568-1537

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Windermere RE / Snohomish, Inc. • (360) 568-1537 • www.snohomishwindermere.com

SNOHOMISH Classic 1940’s 4BD 1.75BA 2644sf home. Just a few blocks to stores, churches, post office. NEW roof, NEW furnace/heat-pump, NEW water heater. Covered back porch that’s practically another room & a large garage.

Call 360-568-1537

HARBOUR POINTE The Birkdale plan loaded with $40+K in upgrades. 4BD 2.5BA 2664sf w/ wide planked floors, crown molding, & a kitchen for the bon vivant! Luxurious window planked master & bath. Minutes to Beoing.

Call 360-568-1537

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ECHO LAKE 3BD 2BA 2254sf rambler on private 3/4 acre lot w/mature & gorgeous year round landscape, low maintenance, fountains & berry bushes. Large entertaining deck. Gated RV parking + 3 car detached heated garage w/ car lift & workshop.

Call 360-568-1537

LAKE ROESIGER Boasting 96± feet of no-bank waterfront w/private L shaped dock and boat house w/ winch. 4BD 2BA 2400sf home w/ expansive deck for entertaining, relaxing, enjoying sunsets and unobstructed water views!

Call 360-568-1537

2/3/2019 3:32:38 PM

Shana Hoople Owner/Broker

425-422-3949 www.premierhomes.today

Text R1036211 to 52187

ARLINGTON 4BD 2.75BA 3320sf on 14+ acres of manicured land! Master suite w/private deck. Garage wired for generator. Trex deck w/ built-in fire pit. $850,000 Text R1093018 to 52187

SEATTLE Queen Anne 2BD 1.75BA top floor, corner unit w/ covered patio! Stylish European design. Pets ok. 2 parking spots. No rental cap. 94 Walk Score! $539,000 Text R1015825 to 52187

GRANITE FALLS 27.29 acres in the City limits. Zoned for R7200 building lots. Great mountain & territorial views.

Close to amenities & award winning schools. $250,000

Cheryl Munn Owner/Designated Broker

425-422-6608

www.propertiesbycheryl.com

Text R1066547 to 52187

LAKE BOSWORTH 3BD 2.75BA 2591sf lake view home. on 1+ acre. New granite in kitchen. Wrap around deck w/ hot tub. 3 car garage + shop w/ office + RV shop. $675,000 Text R1032524 to 52187

GETCHELL 3BD 2BA log home on level 1 acre. Remodeled main floor BA w/ heated floors. Rec room/4th BD. 400 amp service, generator. Garden space. Cash only. $365,000 Text R1086930 to 52187

BOW Gorgeous & flat 5 acres, private & secluded yet just minutes from I-5. Power, septic & well are already in! Slab from previous MH. Bring in new MH or Build! $299,000

Lending questions?

Let us help!

206-817-5532

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FREE HUD Home List Please call 360-454-0629 for a list of HUD homes today! or visit www.Hudhomestore.com

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For More Info Text R969172 to 52187 HAT ISLAND No-bank beachfront bungalow remodeled in 2013! Steps to crabbing, fishing & beachcombing. Private island w/ PGA rated golf course, tennis, & marina. R676

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For More Info Text R1097169 to 52187 SHORELINE 1950's Innis Arden 4BD 3BA 2890sf on shy half acre. So much charm! Newer roof, carpet & some paint.

Trail to waters edge. Shoreline School District. R698

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For More Info Text R1090047 to 52187 STANWOOD 3BD 2.5BA in Church Creek. Updated kitchen is a chef's dream! Dining room w/ french doors to patio.

New siding, roof & hot water heater. Fully fenced. R695

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For More Info Text R687181 to 52187 HAT ISLAND Turn key home w/ partial sound view on private island. Open floor plan & large kitchen w/ island. Two master suites. Large detached garage. R609

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For More Info Text R1047294 to 52187 STANWOOD Build your future business, investment property or residence on this Commercial lot in Historical Downtown Stanwood! Zoned MB-II. R666

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For More Info Text R930199 to 52187 TULALIP 3BD 1.75BA rambler on 2.71 acres. Close to Kayak Park & Golf course. Large kitchen w/ granite counters.

Plenty of room for entertaining. Room to build shop. R665

For More Info Text R1110287 to 52187

For More Info Text R1034009 to 52187

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS 3BD 2BA rambler on park-like 2.3 acres. Free standing wood stove w/ forced air, bonus room, newer vinyl windows, 900sf shop/garage. R703

LAKE STEVENS 3BD rambler w/ unfinished basement on 5 acres! Beautiful views of the property. Large detached garage. Wrap-around deck.Private, yet close in. R689

Wendy Smith

(360) 454-0629 4salebywendy@gmail.com Page 4

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Karen Eckerson (425) 238-2023 www.karen.withwre.com

Windermere RE / JS

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CARPENTER RIDGE COMMUNITY DIVISON II 3BD 2BA 2060sf Rambler on 1+ acre. Open floor plan great rm w/cozy fireplace, formal dining, kitchen w/quartz counters & stainless appliances. 3 car garage. Covered patio.

Greenbelt on 2 sides, lots of wildlife. 2 miles to Lake Roesiger.

To see more photos, Text R1122100 to 52187

STYLISH NEW CONSTRUCTION 4BD 2.5BA 2477sf on level 0.71 acre lot. Gourmet kitchen w/ quartz counters, ample cabinets, & stainless appliances. Living room w/ hardwoods & fireplace. Den on the main level. Utility room upstairs. Retreat style master suite w/ tiled bath. 3 car garage. 5 minutes to I-5, shopping.

To see more photos, Text R1122101 to 52187

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On The Cover

ANACORTES - PRIVATE WATERFRONT SANCTUARY

STUNNING WESTERLY VIEWS of the San Juan Islands!

2BD 1.75BA 2412sf Craftsman shows pride & elegance Kelli Lang throughout. Brazilian cherry floors, custom cabinetry, & 360-929-2217 large gourmet kitchen perfect for entertaining. Sip a glass team@kellilang.com of wine while watching the sunset or gardening in the soft ocean breeze. Your guests will feel welcome as they enter www.getislandhomes.com through the peaceful Zen garden. Enjoy all that Anacortes has to offer incl. hiking, biking, kayaking. $897,000 To see more photos, Text R1120384 to 52187 GATEWAY

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Just Listed, call for details - $229,950

Text R1110296 to 52187 - $419,950

한국어 통역은 리사에게 연락주 세요.

Call Lisa Lee, 206-909-3799

Я разговариваю на русском и украинском языках ,

Call Svitlana Spencer, 425-280-1556

EVERETT Dream Big! 3BD 2BA rambler w/ huge .36 acre lot. Zoned R-2 for 2nd dwelling or finish 2 story outbuilding for rental. Qualifies for 203k Rehab Loan.

R1045574

Text R955575 to 52187 - $450,000

Text R782871 to 52187 - $224,995

CAMANO ISLAND Driftwood Heights view condo w/ large covered deck & picture windows. Newer carpets, appliances.

HOA covers w/s/g & lawn. Beach rights.

SILVER LAKE Huge lot! The City says it can be subdivided. Sewer next to property. City Water connected. House on 3BD septic. Perfect to live in while you build!

SOAP LAKE Ideal coffee & Ice Cream location. Cook stove & dish washing station. Huge basement for storage & possible live on site option. 1 block to the Lake.

SOLD

MILL CREEK

SOLD

SNOHOMISH

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EVERETT

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PENDING EVERETT 4BD 1.75BA 2876sf home & shop on 0.55 acre lot.

Text R1081841 to 52187

30 years of experience selling real estate.

I have listened to what my clients are trying to accomplish and helped them reach those goals.

Call me today & let me do the same for you.

Sincerely, Lilyan Folk

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We also have Spanish & German speaking Brokers.

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MARYSVILLE 2BD 2BA condo w/ open floor plan. Large living rm w/ fireplace. Big Master suite. Storage unit & garage, plus additional parking space.

SOLD

LAKE STEVENS

SOLD

ARLINGTON

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This is why you move to America’s #1 Cities and work with the #1 team!

North Homes Realty, Inc

Lynn Curley

Connie Moulaison

360.770.8670 SandiRiley@ Century21.com

360-708-3445 lynnchs@ gmail.com

360.770.1341 moulaison.connie@ gmail.com

CONCRETE Park-like shy 1/2 acre w/circular drive. New comp roof, new paint inside & out.Bonus rm. 24x30 garage w/greenhouse area. $228,900 Text R881275 to 52187

HAMILTON 1.44 acres w/ RANCH STYLE HOME + MH. Bonus room above garage. Pasture, loafing stall.

RV parking. Move in ready! $349,000 Text R1017622 to 52187

MARYSVILLE New construction! 3BD 1.75BA loaded w/ upgrades & 1/4 acre fully fenced yard! Ductless heating & A/C + electric wall units. $415,900 Text R1108013 to 52187

ARLINGTON 4BD 2.5BA 3254sf on 5 acres. Surrounded by woods! Short plat w/prelim approval from Co. Tile roof, new paint, hardwood floors. $675,900 Text R1084021 to 52187

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LAKE STEVENS Great starter! Remodeled 3BD rambler. Updated kitchen, new siding, fresh paint in/out. Lake Stevens schools. $339,998 Text R1000476 to 52187

Sandi Riley

SNOHOMISH Very clean, well maintained 3BD 1.75BA home in convenient sought after neighborhood. Close to trails. Schools and shopping. $359,900 Text R1100077 to 52187

S O L D! LAKE STEVENS 3BD 2BA 2649sf rambler on 5+ acres! Private gated entry. Heated 64x36 shop w/ lift+ 2nd shop. Bring your horses! $675,998 Text R974993 to 52187

MOUNT VERNON Montreaux 55+ Gorgeous 3BD 2.5BA 2779sf by Landed Gentry. Open plan, no steps on main floor. Granite kitchen. Covered patio.

SOLD!

CAMANO ISLAND 4BD 2BA 2976SF rambler on 5.2 acres. Heat pump A/C, granite, bamboo cabinets, river rock fplc. 40x70 shop w/ lift. $634,800 Text R1025070 to 52187

S O L D! ANACORTES Well maintained 3BD 2.5BA 2272sf rambler. 2 car garage & RV parking. Near airport & minutes to ferry dock, in quiet nbhd. $460,000 Text R1111651 to 52187

LAKE STEVENS 9+ acres adjacent to Lake Stevens and Marysville UGAs. Potential views of mountains & sound.

Approx 1 acre cleared. $1,700,000 Text R782880 to 52187

MOUNT VERNON Move-in ready 3BD rambler. Private yard, very quiet, great starter home! Fully fenced yard, extra guest & RV parking.

SOLD!

Take the Fear out of Buying with Down Payment Protection... Ask Me How! SABRINA LINMAN Passionate About Strengthening Families

(360) 223-3446 mobile Sabrina.Linman@gatewayloan.com

Loan Originator, MLS 186979, NMLS 7233

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THE DOS & DON’TS OF DRAIN MAINTENANCE Does one of your drains always seem to clog? Can’t figure out the best way to keep your pipes clear? Four Seasons Plumbing offers the following guidelines for proper drain maintenance.

“A lot of our clients are worried about what they can and cannot put down their drains,” says Max Rose, owner of Four Seasons Plumbing. “The truth is—excluding grease, oils and chemicals—a properly designed and installed system will take just about anything you can fit down the drain. If you are experiencing issues with normal use, I recommend having a plumbing professional do an inspection, but in the meantime here are some dos and don’ts you can follow.”

DO USE A DRAIN GUARD.

Whether it’s in the kitchen sink or the bathtub, a drain guard can catch the bigger pieces of debris that tend to cause clogs.

DON’T FLUSH EVERYTHING.

Body waste and toilet paper are the only things that should be flushed. Paper towels, cotton balls and even “flushable” wipes should not be disposed of in the toilet.

DO USE A BACTERIA WASTE ELIMINATOR FOR PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE.

Bacteria and enzyme drain additives are safe, effective and great for septic systems.

DON’T POUR GREASE, OIL OR FAT DOWN DRAINS.

It may go down the drain as a liquid, but once it cools off, these fats solidify, causing blockages in pipes. It’s best to wait until the grease or oil has cooled into a solid and then dispose of it in the trash.

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DO FLUSH WITH HOT WATER.

Periodically fill the tub and/or kitchen sink about halfway with hot water and pull the plug. This will move the hot water down the plumbing and help clear lingering debris.

DON’T USE COMMERCIAL DRAIN CLEANERS.

Store-bought drain cleaners contain caustic chemicals that can be harmful to both your health and your plumbing. These cleaners may help remedy a clogged or slow-draining sink or tub, but it can erode pipes in the process.

Following these tips can help keep your drain and pipes clear and working well. But should you need drain repair, or even a check up on them, contact your trusted plumber today!

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2018. All rights reserved.

11/29/18 1:56 PM

5

SURPRISING THINGS YOU CAN NEGOTIATE INTO YOUR HOME PRICE WHEN SELLING

By Abigail Sawyer

When you’re ready to list your home on the real estate market, you conduct a thorough inspection and fix any problem areas. You make your house look shiny and new by replacing broken items, upgrading light fixtures, floors, cabinets and window treatments, cleaning every inch and staging your home perfectly for your open houses.

But aside from listing the typical selling points like square footage, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, landscaping features and proximity to excellent schools, you can also list extra features to potentially boost the price.

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Here are five things around your home that you can leverage to increase its value: Appliances

Appliances can be tough to move, especially if they’re built into your kitchen or laundry room. Instead of planning to take them with you, include them in the price of your home. A word of caution: Be sure the appliances match, are (relatively) new and look immaculate. If you’re in a pricey neighborhood, buyers want move-in ready homes stocked with higher-end appliances.

Spring for expensive brands, and you may be able to get more money for your home when you sell.

Furniture

Light fixtures are usually customized for a space, so it’s better to leave them in your house. To successfully sell them with your home, go for modern fixtures that keep the space well lit. Avoid harsh fluorescent lights and choose LED bulbs instead, which can make a room look brighter while saving energy and heat at the same time. You can put in accent lighting to show off your home’s focal points. Add vanity lighting to the bathrooms and install path lighting along your outdoor areas for more light.

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When you move into your new abode, you’re not going to be taking your window treatments with you. But while you’re in your current home, it’s worth setting aside a few hundred dollars to replace the blinds, shutters and curtains. If you have older aluminum blinds or unattractive curtains, swap them with modern-looking roman or roller shades, or even faux wood shutters and blinds.

SURPRISING THINGS YOU CAN NEGOTIATE INTO YOUR HOME PRICE WHEN SELLING

Some buyers are looking for a truly turnkey home that’s completely furnished, especially in fast-moving cities like Los Angeles and New York City. The furniture they see staged at your open house will help them achieve that, and they’ll likely be willing to pay extra for it. By selling your furniture and decor with your house, you may be able to mark up your home listing by 30 percent.

Light Fixtures

Window Treatments

For a truly modern, convenient touch, install motorized shades that can be opened and closed with the touch of a button. When you’re selling your home, you can include these updated window treatments in your price.

Playsets

Many potential buyers have kids or plan on having kids, especially if they’re first-time homebuyers. Even if your own kids have outgrown the swing sets and play areas, consider keeping them in the yard. They have the potential to increase the price of your home and make it a more attractive option for your buyers.

Before you put your house on the market, be sure to consider these five aspects of your home. You may be able to boost the sale price by looking at these different features and leveraging them to your benefit.

This appeared first on RISMedia’s Housecall.

Abigail Sawyer is a senior social media specialist for Blinds.com. She’s a home improvement junkie who is currently restoring a 1972 cottage.

She writes on all things related to home decor and decorating. If you’re planning on selling your home and want to add new window treatments, you can find a wide variety on Blinds.com.

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H AV I N G A H O M E I N S P EC T I O N ?

DON’T FORGET THE TREES When you buy a home, a professional inspection is a standard part of the process, designed to reveal any potentially dangerous and costly problems that may not be evident to the untrained eye, such as faulty electrical wiring or hidden mold.

But there’s more to inspecting a property than the actual home itself. According to the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), it’s just as important to know the quality and safety of large trees on the property, as a mammoth branch coming through the roof during the first storm spent in your home is a problem no new homeowner wants to deal with.

Dying or decaying trees are usually easy to spot, especially when foliage is out, but you’ll need a qualified arborist to identify some of the above problems, such as healthy-looking trees with structural defects. A professional arborist can also provide advice about the future maintenance of trees on the property to help stave off long-term problems.

While beautiful, mature trees are probably part of what drew you to a property in the first place, the experts at TCIA advise inspecting the trees for the following issues. They could be telltale signs of an imminent problem:

Taking action on tree issues sooner than later is a wise course of action before they result in more serious and expensive problems. As Lew Bloch, a registered consulting arborist in Potomac, Md., says, “Large trees are usually an asset and a valuable amenity to the property, but weak, damaged or diseased trees are actually liabilities.”

xx Poor past care or previous topping xx Improper planting xx Too much mulch on the root system xx Damage during construction xx Wrong tree in the wrong place xx Insect or disease damage xx Overwatering from the lawn’s irrigation system, or limbs rubbing on the siding or roof

So if you or your home inspector notice an issue with a tree or trees, contact your landscaper, lawn service or a local arborist to provide the best advice and course of action, or to even remove the tree. It’s better to take care of problem trees now, before they run the risk of becoming a bigger issue.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2018. All rights reserved.

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EXPAND YOUR KITCHEN: TRY A SLIDING DOOR Your kitchen is the heart of your home. It’s a place where family and friends gather. It’s also a space where you may seem to need more space, whether you’re making breakfast for the kids or hosting a big dinner party.

Using innovative wall-mount door hardware, you can unlock your kitchen’s potential by freeing up the “real estate” traditional swinging doors take up. Due to their unique space-saving possibilities, versatility and aesthetics, wall-mount sliding doors can make your kitchen more open and inviting.

A standard hinged door consumes 10-14 square feet of floor space to swing open and shut, putting kitchen space at a premium. Single or converging wall-mount sliding doors allow you to utilize this floor space for kitchen furnishings, storage, extra mingling room for guests and more.

They also give kitchens a more spacious look and can enhance your home’s design flow, making it more welcoming and facilitating movement between rooms, which is essential for gatherings and larger families with children.

To maximize your kitchen’s footprint and optimize functionality, an option like wallmount door hardware from Johnson Hardware can provide a new world of architectural possibilities for your kitchen, regardless of size or layout. Ideal for wider kitchen entryways, converging wallmount door hardware allows doors to glide smoothly as they open whenever you want a free flow for entertaining, or close for privacy during meal preparation.

Converging doors can add sophistication or create a cozy feel, depending on the hardware configuration and door style you choose. Available with or without fascia in either clear satin or bronze anodized aluminum, the U.S.-made hardware and track exceed ANSI safety standards and can successfully complete 100,000 opening and closing cycles. You can also add your own valance to match the door material and trim.

Wall-mounted sliding doors also work well for kitchen pantries and large recessed shelving areas where you want to conceal clutter and ensure clean, streamlined spaces. With Johnson’s array of hardware configurations, you can create personalized looks that integrate the door designs and materials you desire with options for doors up to 125 pounds, which are equipped with wall-mounted jump-proof aluminum box tracks and adjustable door hangers for easy installation, as well as options up to 400 pounds, featuring wall-mounted, heavy-gauge I-beam tracks and smooth-rolling, ball-bearing four-wheel hangers.

Installing wall-mount sliding door hardware in your kitchen - and beyond - can be an easy yet high-impact improvement that reduces space constraints while adding warmth, functionality and appeal to your home. So contact your contractor or home remodeler today to have one installed.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2018. All rights reserved.

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7 PROJECTS THAT IMPROVE RESALE VALUE Even if you have no immediate plans for leaving your home, it’s a good idea to approach renovations with resale value in mind. Upgrades that are likely to appeal to future buyers protect your investment while also improving your enjoyment of the home.

One key to a successful renovation is figuring out how to personalize the space without making it so customized that it’s not attractive to other potential owners. For example, eliminating a bedroom to create a giant walk-in closet may help achieve your dreams, but losing that bedroom can be a major hit to your home’s value.

These renovation ideas - which include both cosmetic touch-ups and more labor-intensive suggestions - can help boost your home’s value.

OPEN SPACE. Older homes were often that needs to be relocated. You’ll likely designed with a boxy, formal layout that is less conducive to most modern families’ needs. Today’s open floor plans offer functionality for everything from keeping an eye on the kids while making dinner to entertaining guests. This type of floor plan can also make small rooms feel larger and invite more light into darker parts of the house.

The most cost-effective way to create an open space is to remove non-load-bearing walls (load-bearing walls help support the roof; while they can be removed there’s typically quite a bit more time, labor and expense involved). Removing a wall may not be that complicated unless you encounter plumbing or HVAC ductwork

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have some electrical outlets to move, and both the floor and ceiling will need attention to remove lingering signs of the former wall.

CLIMATE COMFORT. Not every aspect

of home improvement is visible at first glance like a fresh coat of paint; some value-boosting upgrades are more behind the scenes. One example is climate management. If you renovate a space that needs better climate control, or if you add a new room where extending the existing ductwork is impractical, a splitductless HVAC system may be the perfect solution. The ductless design saves HVAC contractors time during installation, therefore saving homeowners money.

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UNDERSTATED ELEGANCE.

Features like crown molding and other wood accents such as chair rails are elegant upgrades that can elevate a home’s value with a relatively modest investment. An office or dining room is the perfect place to introduce these design elements to add a bit of formality to the space. You can also find crown molding in spaces like the living room, with the molding coordinating with built-in shelving flanking a fireplace.

COLOR CHANGE.

Although paint is one of the easiest ways to personalize your home, it’s also one of the least expensive, simplest ways to improve its value and appearance.

A fresh coat of paint, inside or out, can create an appealing illusion of newness no matter the age of your home. For maximum resale value, stick to neutral tones so future buyers can focus on envisioning the place as their own, without the distraction of your own vibrant choices. If you don’t like the thought of boring beige, consider adding accent walls for pops of color that can be easily changed down the road.

ADJUSTABLE LIGHTING.

A room’s ambiance can be completely transformed with lighting. For multi-purpose rooms, an option like dimmer switches lets you customize the lighting to fit the use, which can vary throughout the day.

A well-lit living room is essential for a large gathering or a small group gathered for game night. That same space can be equally

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inviting for an intimate conversation or a casual movie night with the lights turned down low. One of the best parts is minimal experience is needed to swap out standard switches for the more versatile dimmers.

Plus, in today’s technology-driven world, there’s an app for seemingly everything, including lighting. Homeowners can control the ambiance from their phones by installing smart light bulbs and lighting strips.

GRUNGE-FREE GARAGE.

Even though a garage’s functionality is the top concern for most buyers, a dingy, unkempt space can be a real turn-off. One way to instantly brighten and refresh the space is an epoxy coating on the floor. Applying the coating is relatively easy and once dry it helps prevent unsightly stains and damage in the future.

Combine that with a thorough sweeping, wiping down walls and other surfaces, and organizing the clutter to create a more inviting space you can utilize to the fullest.

BETTER BATHROOMS.

Many homeowners approach a bathroom upgrade with big projects in mind, like swapping out the vanity, replacing the tub or installing tile flooring. However, it’s possible to make a noticeable impact with much smaller changes. Simply updating bathroom fixtures and fittings such as shower heads, faucets, towel racks and lighting can transform the space with minimal effort and far less work and expense than a large-scale renovation.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2018. All rights reserved.

11/29/18 1:56 PM

BUYING IN THE FUTURE? STA RT SAV I N G TODAY

By Suzanne De Vita

With inventory low and prices rebounding, affordability has become one of the foremost housing issues—both for buyers entering the market, and homeowners looking for a new, but practically priced property after selling. According to new research, accumulating enough for a down payment can take over seven years—and even longer in pricey spots.

If the average buyer earning the median national income saved 10 percent of it per month, it would take 7.2 years to amass a 20 percent down payment on the average home in the U.S., according to an analysis recently released by Zillow. Buyers in California are in for the longest savings stretch: 18.4 years in Los Angeles; 18.3 years in San Francisco; and 21.8 years in San Jose—the longest of the markets in the report. Buyers have an easier path in Pittsburgh, where it takes 4.8 years, and in Cincinnati, Indianapolis and St. Louis, where it takes 5.1 years.

The disparity between earnings growth and home prices is substantial, the analysis shows. Incomes have increased 52.6 percent in the past 20 years, while appreciation has hit 98.6 percent.

“The simple fact that home values have far outpaced income growth, lengthening the time needed to save for a down payment, contributes to millennials’ struggles to enter homeownership,” says Skylar Olsen, director of Economic Research at Zillow. “Saving up

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for a down payment can be tough, especially when the cost of everyday life outpaces the money you put into the bank. It requires good budgeting and long-term planning. It’s one reason why more and more first-time home buyers are looking to family and friends for financial help when coming up with their down payment.”

While 20 percent down is ideal by many measures, it’s not a requirement; in fact, borrowers can be eligible for as low as 3 percent, depending on the loan and their situation. For guidance, contact your REALTOR®.

“Even if you don’t have plans to buy a home in the next year or two, it’s not a bad idea to start setting aside savings for a future home purchase,” Olsen says. “It’s also important to remember that there are many options for mortgages requiring less than 20 percent down.”

Suzanne De Vita is RISMedia’s online news editor. Email her your real estate news ideas at sdevita@rismedia.com.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2018. All rights reserved.

11/29/18 1:56 PM

DOUG WILLIAMS ABR, ABRM, CRS, EPRO, GRI

dwilliams@remax.net

425-418-9542 $335,000 - 217 E Union, Arlington

NORTHWEST REALTORS

To see more photos, Text R921997 to 52187

ARLINGTON - ESTATE SALE Fixer with lots of charm in old Arlington neighborhood. Keep house plus extra lot to build another home or remove house to allow for 3 possible building lots. Home features 3 bedrooms 1 bathroom, with 2710 total square feet including 1106 unfinished basement. Gas Heat. Wood fireplace in living room. Large yard w/ detached garage. Offered As-Is.

From Edmonds to Index, Camano Island to Darrington, and Everywhere In Between

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14901.27.11 DougWilliams.indd 1

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from the $400’s SUMMERSUN ESTATES PHASE 2 MODEL HOME One of the last rambler placs! 3BD 1.75BA 207sf great room design.

Kitchen w/ slab granite. Painted millwork & doors. Tankless water heater.

Heat pump, A/C, F/A gas furnace.

Covered patio. Landscaped & fenced backyard. MLS:1405242 $445,000 Text R1116724 to 52187

4119 Autumn Way, Mount Vernon

COMPLETED NEW CONSTRUCTION

MODEL HOME: Open Weds - Sun, 1 to 4

4119 Autumn Way, Mount Vernon RAMBLERS & 2-STORIES 1630 to 2196 SF • 2 - 3 Car Garages COMPLETED HOMES NOW AVAILABLE

PHASE 1 SOLD OUT! ***

Photos of similar completed homes, colors and features may differ.

PHASE 2 READY!

Check out all of our communities at www.bykconstruction.com DIRECTIONS: I-5 Exit 227, East on College Way, Left on Martin to SummerSun Estates in Mount Vernon

4176 McLaughlin Rd, Mount Vernon

4156 McLaughlin Rd, Mount Vernon

4155 Autumn Wy, Mount Vernon

COMPLETED NEW CONSTRUCTION 3 CAR GARAGE Summersun 3BD + den 1.75BA 1951sf rambler. Great room w/gas fp. Kitchen w/ gas range, slab granite and large island.

MLS:1304062 $429,900 Text R847108 to 52187

COMPLETED NEW CONSTRUCTION POPULAR RAMBLER PLAN 3BD + den 1.75BA 2007sf w/ vaulted great rm w/gas fireplace & engineered hardwood flrs. Spacious kitchen. Cov'd patio. Gas heat. MLS:1367421 $425,000 Text R1000510 to 52187

COMPLETED NEW CONSTRUCTION MASTER SUITE W/ SITTING AREA 3BD 2.5BA 2196sf + den w/ double doors.

Kitchen w/gas range & slab granite island.

Den w/double doors. Tankless water heater. 2 car garage. MLS:1305628 $419,900 Text R847097 to 52187

28408 71st Lane NW, Stanwood

6915 284th St NW, Stanwood

1833 River Walk Lane, Burlington

NEW CONSTRUCTION BYK CONSTRUCTION 3BD 1.75BA 2206sf rambler with Den/flex room. Gas fireplace & engineered hardwood floor. Tankless water heater. Heat Pump. MLS:1378394 $560,000 Text R1028998 to 52187

COMPLETED NEW CONSTRUCTION BONUS ROOM 3BD 2.5BA 2481sf w/ den & bonus room.

Vaulted entry to great room w/gas fireplace. Heat pump for heat/AC. 3 car garage. Fenced. MLS:1254894 $514,900 Text R722440 to 52187

COMPLETED NEW CONSTRUCTION RIVER’S EDGE 3BD 1.75BA 1701sf rambler w/ 3 car garage. Great room w/ gas firepalce. Kitchen w/ granite & gas range. Tankless water heater. MLS:1349166 $425,000 Text R964084 to 52187

KIM WOODMANSEE 360-421-5469

kimwoodmansee@johnlscott.com

R E A L E S T A T E JOHN L SCOTT/SKAGIT

KimWoodmansee.JohnLScott.com

10201.41.2 Woodmansee.indd 1

2/3/2019 3:34:40 PM

Check out all of our communities at www.bykconstruction.com

Open Weds - Sun, 1-4 pm

Model Home

1824 Rio Vista, Burlington For more photos & information, Text R847108 to 52187

Live near the river!

Fishing, boating, and walking trails right by your home.

Some lots provide backyard for RV/boat parking.

34 Lots Available Now!

in Burlington, Skagit County

Lot Sizes: 7,600 - 13,617 SF Ramblers: 1,701 - 2,007 SF 2 Stories: 1,924 - 2,961 SF

Prices starting from the high $300's FOR DIRECTIONS set your GPS to: 1824 Rio Vista, Burlington WA

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14901.27.11 LG_Alpine48North.indd 1

2/3/2019 3:30:24 PM

Seattle - $325,000

FANTASTIC LOCATION in Hillman City Brighton Neighborhood Columbia City and minutes to Seward Park. 79 Walk Scores, blocks from Light Rail, Buses, restaurants and more. Great opportunity to turn this into an amazing home ! Unfinished basement has laundry hook-ups and potential for storage. Offered As-Is. To see more photos, Text R1051327 to 52187 Bothell - $249,950

Lake Stevens - $300,000

MINUTES TO MILL CREEK TOWN CENTER 2BD 1.5BA Townhome in central location. Carport parking in front of the unit. 1 year home warranty. No Rental Cap. Pets ok.

Text R1083136 to 52187

FULL OF CHARACTER Cottage-style tiny home - a great condo alternative! Wonderful location, lots of parking. Great kitchen w/ eating bar, full bath, 2 rooms upstairs. Zoned HUR. Text R1083125 to 52187

Snohomish - $850,000

Shoreline - $299,950

ATTN: HORSE LOVERS! 6 acres w/ 2 barns, pastures, small orchard, room for garden & shop. Remodeled 4BD 3BA 4836sf w/ 3 family rms, office & media rm. Oversize 2 car garage.

Text R1083124 to 52187

SPACIOUS CONDO 2BD 2BA + bonus room for office, workout rm, craft rm, storage etc. Covered deck, fireplace & ample storage. 3 assigned parking spaces. No rental cap.

Call for details!

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2/3/2019 3:31:30 PM

Jenifer Murrweiss

Broker & Realtor Master Certified Negotiation Expert Certified Short Sale Negotiator Seniors Real Estate Specialist

ELITE

425-422-7243

www.snohomishcountyhomesinc.com

www.pugetsoundheroes.com

$1 ,1 50 ,0 00

• Firefighters • Law Enforcement • Military (Active, Reserve & Veterans) • Healthcare Professionals • EMS • Teachers

$8

45

,9

00

SEATTLE Views, Views, Views! Unique 3BD 25BA 2690sf w/ amazing views of Lake Washington & Cascade Mountains. Remodeled w 6” hardwood floors. Master shower w 3 heads & heated floors.

To see more photos, Text R1118799 to 52187

$3

35

,0

00

ARLINGTON New construction! 4BD 3.5BA 3985sf on private 1-acre lot in Viewmont Estates. Great room plan w/ dining room, dinette, & flex room. Dream basement w/ heated floors, fireplace, wet bar, family, game, exercise, & hubby bonus room. This fine living home has so much to offer it’s a MUST SEE! To see more photos, Text R1118797 to 52187

EVERETT Fully remodeled rambler at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac.

New roof, windows, flooring. New ductless heat system, incll A/C. All new kitchen w/ SS appls & quartz counters. Fully fenced w/ huge deck.

To see more photos, Text R1118798 to 52187

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14901.27.11 ReddenPeterson.indd 1

2/3/2019 3:31:10 PM

Michelle Torset Managing Broker

President, The Torset Group Listing-Marketing Specialist

CELL

w w w. T h e To r s e t Te a m . c o m Everett **INVESTOR ALERT** Large level clear 2 parcel lot in South Everett just minutes to Boeing, Paine Field. County MR zoning for potential of 8 dwelling units. New home, duplex, etc. Prime investment/developer property. $388,00 Just Listed - Call for details Call Rick 425-344-2971

425-233-5188 Ready to Buy?

Contact our Team of Buyer’s Specialists

Rick Vannoy

Listing & Buyer Specialist

Everett BEAUTIFUL HISTORIC HOME Close to all amenities w/ partial water view. Concrete patio area fully fenced w/ steps to deck to view the city. Newer roof, vinyl windows, gas furnace, H20 tank, stove. Garage in the alley!

HUGE basement. $281,000 Text R1117802 to 52187 Call Rick 425-344-2971

425-344-2971

Ben Cole

Listing & Buyer Specialist

360-540-4834

Seattle ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES! Home can go 2 stories up. Partially finished bsmt used for studio-rental.

Private picnic area out back w/ parking. Close to Fremont, transit & light rail. Minutes to downtown! Partial city views & beautiful sunsets. $699,000 Text R945072 to 52187

LaDon Torset

Buyer’s Specialist

Call Michelle 425-233-5188

206-786-8021

Arlington JUST PAST LAKE KI 3BD 2BA DWMH w/ family room, vaulted ceilings, skylight, partially fenced yard and convenient 7 lakes location. Master suite w/ soaking tub. Office + mud rm. 5 minutes to all Smokey Point services. $265,000 Text R785437 to 52187 Call Ben 360-540-4834

14901.27.11 Torset.indd 1

Tatiana Ulrich Buyer Specialist

425-583-0101

2/3/2019 3:32:09 PM