RE-Weekly 02/10/17

RE-Weekly.com REAL ESTATE IN SKAGIT, ISLAND AND WHATCOM COUNTIES

INSIDE

This Issue This Issue EQUITY RISING P. 4

Q & A: Ask Our Broker P. 8

TIME FOR TAXES P. 9

Classifieds 16078 BRITT ROAD, MOUNT VERNON WINDERMERE/SKAGIT VALLEY MEGAN O’BRYAN

RealEstate weekly

SEE PAGE 3 FOR MORE

A supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald and the Anacortes American

P. 10 -11

$1,100,000

360-708-5817

February 10 – 16, 2017

1573502

FEATURE HOME:

1573502

Re-Weekly content sponsored by: Northwest Fine Furnishings

INSIDE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

9

Equity rising............................................ P. 4 Q & A: Ask our Broker.............................. P. 8 Time for taxes.......................................... P. 9 Classifieds.........................................P. 10-11

RE-Weekly.com If you are looking to buy or sell, please give us a call or stop by!

Tourskagit.com 360.299.SOLD (7653) 914 15th St., Anacortes 1565159

SKAGIT PUBLISHING

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 that

BURLINGTON

publication.

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.

MOUNT VERNON

320 S Burlington Blvd Burlington, WA 98233 (360) 755-9494

Territory NW T

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

2025 Riverside Drive, Suite D Mount Vernon, WA 98273 (360) 755-9596

www.SkagitValleyRealEstate.com

D AN TL N CA VA

OPEN HOUSE SAT. FEB. 11TH 1-3PM

OPEN HOUSE SUN. FEB. 12TH 1-3PM

540 N. 3rd Street, La Conner $395,000 Dir: From Morris Street, North on North 3rd.

One of a kind property near La Conner Marina on half an acre. Outstanding location. Extra outside studio building & beautiful gardens. Huge private yard & terrific circle drive. Original molding. Lots of storage. 10’ ceilings. MLs #980149 Call Elizabeth, Elizabeth, 708-8800 708-8800 Call

30 Cascade Lane, Bellingham $269,900 Dir: From Cain Lake Road, West on Sudden Valley Drive, North on Cascade.

Amazing NW Contemporary log home. Maple shaker style cabinets, maple flooring, slate entry. Tile flooring in kitchen & baths. Oversized master suite with vaulted ceilings. Radiant heat. Gas stove. MLs #1016392 Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

w NE

G TIN LIs

Wilma Louia Designated Broker/Owner 661-1631

2

Sedro-Woolley $19,950/each Builders dream! 3 adjacent view lots each sold separately in Glenhaven community. Affordable & lightly treed. Public water & electricity available in street. Community amenities available. Great fishing on Reed Lake & Cain Lake. MLs #1012590, MLs #1012618 & MLs #1012646 Call Ron, 333-1045

w NE

Burlington $199,950 Clean, neat, “move-in ready” rambler. 2 BR, 1 BA, vinyl windows, f.A. heat. New paint & carpet, appli. incl.

Insulated 2+ car gar/shop w/power. Garage has new roof & ext. paint. Landscaped f.f. yard, alley access. MLs #1074565 Call Charlie, or708-8800 Jeannie, 708-9645 Call708-1415 Elizabeth,

Charlie & Jeannie Boon 708-9645

Mount Vernon $375,000 Upscale homes w/large lots. 3 BR, 2.5 BA, 2,488 sf. Kitchen w/island, plenty of storage & counter space. Informal dining rm open to family rm w/cozy pellet fireplace. formal dining & LR adjoining, fire place in LR too. Large master w/huge walk in closet, shower & jetted tub. Great private fenced backyard w/large deck. MLs #1061545 Call Ivana, 770-3550

Jim Stransky 708-1681

Kirk Campbell 770-7470

Ron Van Pelt 333-1045

w NE

Call Wilma, 661-1631

Mount Vernon $155,000 Lovely 55+ condo in “The Ridge”. 1 BR, 1 BA, 710 sf, elevator access. New paint & new carpet. Upper-end newer appliances. secure front entry, gated garage. HOA dues: $195/mo., includes W, s, G. MLs #1074048 Call Charlie, 708-1415 or Jeannie, 708-9645

LookINg foR fuLL SERVICE PRoPERty MaNagEMENt?

G TIN LIs

Sedro-Woolley $759,900 Unique custom built 5,000 sf home on 1 acre. 4 BR, 3 3/4 BA. 2 dining rms, formal living rm, parlor, library. Kitchen has high end appliances & pellet stove. Gas free standing fireplace in master feat. full bath. Home office & possible guest bedroom over garage. MLs #1075960 Call Wilma, 661-1631

Elizabeth Detillion 708-8800

Burlington $74,500 Desirable 1,188 sf home. Gated 55+ park. Home features 3 BR, 2 BA. Open floor plan. Carport. MLs #1071011

G TIN LIs

Ivana Wood 770-3550

Mike Welling 540-1341

RE-Weekly.com

Call today and let our experienced staff go to work for you!

360-755-5555 Debbie Benjamin 708-8780

Corinne Cartwright 202-2397

Laura Kaestner 441-5099

Jennifer Ohlsen 540-0717

Traci Erickson Property Manager 755-5555

1573017

.

To advertise in RE-Weekly or other Skagit Publishing publications, Call: 360.416.2180 or Email: ads@skagitads.com ©2016 by Skagit Publishing LLC | All rights reserved.

February 10, 2017

Feature Home From cover:

LAND TITLE AND ESCROW

16078 BRITT ROAD, MOUNT VERNON

Local Professionals Serving our Community

111 E. George Hopper Rd Burlington Title: 360-707-2158 Escrow: 360-707-2312 1-800-869-7121

W Windermere/Skagit valley 1030 e college Way mount vernon, Wa m 360-424-4901 www.WindermereSkagit.com w

ltco.com

1550042

w w w. b r o w n m c m i l l e n . c o m • 235 W. Rio Vista Avenue, Burlington ER

BL

AN

M RA

MV

CAMANO ISLAND HOME…This large 4 BR, 3 BA home sits at 3,400 SF on a corner lot with partial view of the sound. Granite countertops, custom cabinets, & fireplace.

Both levels of home have loads of storage! $454,000. #1074057

near Eaglemont Golf Course. Home has been well maintained with a new 50 yr. roof installed 2 yrs ago. Spacious Master BR with 5-piece bath. Huge deck, fully fenced yard, & 12’ x 20’ shop building. $423,950. #1074434 GE TA

PE

E

RIV

PROFESSIONAL OFFICE BUILDING…Single story well maintained building in great location. Just off Fairhaven Avenue with lots of public parking. Nice open floor plan, alley provides additional parking in rear with 3 covered parking stalls. $250,000. #1069390 Kristen Tuttle Yvonne Brown Galen Kindred Holly Hilts

February 10, 2017

TWO HOMES FOR THE PRICE OF ONE...This 3 BR, 2 BA rambler has granite, hardwood floors, stainless appliances, vaulted ceilings, & a master suite w/walk in closet. Plus 2 BR, 1 BA chalet style home. View of Skagit River. $375,000. #966598

708-8392 840-4375 770-7083 661-5538

Jeff Ingman Shelah Inman Jodi Dynes Fritz Inman

SAMISH ISLAND LIVING…Manufactured home on ¼ fully

fenced lot. 2 BR, 1 BA, 944 SF. New granite countertops, and kitchen cabinets. 3rd BR off exterior with private entrance, but has no closet or heat. Property has legal access to water. $199,500. #1072921

ROSES ARE RED VIOLETS ARE BLUE IF I WERE YOUR REALTOR...

I WOULD HELP ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE DREAMS COME TRUE!

AL ON SSI ING E F O D PR BUIL

ON

R RF

D

AN

ISL

M

SA

WONDERFUL CUSTOM BUILT RAMBLER…Located on a 15,808 SF lot

G

IN ND

ISH

MEDICAL CLINIC…Great location in center of MV. One story with 3,575 SF of office space w/large reception area.

Well maintained & designed for numerous professions. $799,500. #1061873

202-2859 661-0145 333-7783 661-0147

Tim Reichert Ron Wortham Mary Jo Reitsma Travis Lohman

RE-Weekly.com

391-5587 661-1500 770-6013 661-4533

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY! Tod LeHecka Jan Scally Dale Owenby

333-1032 421-5160 913-8662

1573526

D

AN

M

Megan O’Bryan 360-708-5817 Windermere/Skagit Valley

Brown McMillen Real Estate

360.757.6013 800.869.7084

CA

Spencer Roozen 360-708-0634

Beautiful, updated 3,130 SF, 3 bed, 2.5 bath home on 2.5 fertile Skagit Valley acres.

Gracious Williamsburg Colonial style home has fabulous gourmet kitchen; spacious, sunny great room; lovely master suite with walk-in closet and tiled bath. Two guest rooms, including one with a sitting room. Formal living & dining rooms. Dream mudroom/ laundry. Property features restored barn, fenced pasture, garden shed, greenhouse, treehouse, and more.

MLS #924351 1573503

3010 Commercial Ave Anacortes 1-800-870-8571 360-299-0565

Trusted Service for over 76 years

SL OI

$1,100,000

3

Equity Rising More homeowners today flock to HELOCs – should you?

I

f you’re a homeowner who survived the real estate market downturn from a few years back, chances are the value of your home – and your equity in it – has increased. And therein lies an opportunity: the chance to tap into that equity in the form of a home equity line of credit (HELOC), which can be a great way to finance a home improvement project, pay down debt, help pay for college, or even purchase a car.

This option has proved to be increasingly popular in recent years – in fact, for 17 consecutive quarters spanning 2012 through mid-2016, residential HELOC originations increased, according to ATTOM Data Solutions.

“Over the past four years of this housing recovery, homeowners have steadily regained equity and confidence in the housing market, resulting in a steady climb in HELOCs. That steady climb culminated with HELOC originations reaching an eight-year high in the second quarter of last year – the highest level since third quarter 2008,” says Daren Blomquist, senior vice president of ATTOM Data Solutions in Irvine, Calif. “HELOCs pulled back a bit in third quarter 2016, but we expect them to continue their upward trend in 2017 barring any big jump in interest rates.”

A HELOC is essentially a form of revolving credit for which your property serves as collateral. You can get approved by a HELOC lender for a particular amount of credit based on your ability to repay the loan; this amount is typically calculated by taking a percentage of your residence’s appraised value and subtracting from it the 4

balance due on your existing mortgage. Unlike a loan that’s distributed in a single lump sum, you’re allowed to draw from your approved funds (via checks or a special credit card) whenever you like within the first 5 to 10 years. When you draw money, you simply make at least a minimum monthly payment, which usually is payment on the interest only; nothing is charged when no money is drawn. Once the draw period ends, a 10- to 20-year repayment period begins, during which time you can’t make any further withdrawals from the line.

HELOCs have adjustable interest rates that can vary over the life of the loan, but many can be converted or refinanced into fixed-rate loans before the draw period ends. While a HELOC’s variable rate can be higher than that for a conventional fixed-rate loan, it’s often much lower than you’d pay on a typical credit card; plus, the interest you pay is usually tax deductible.

“A HELOC is a great way to have an emergency fund in place. They’re ideal for people with equity in their home who have a need to access it,” says Sam Mischner, head of mortgages and sales for LendingTree in Charlotte, N.C., who attributes the rise in HELOC popularity in recent years to rising home values, increasing interest rates and a significant number of consumers with low interest rates on their first mortgages.

Clay Selland, president of Danville, Calif.-based Signet Mortgage Corporation, says opting for a HELOC can be a smarter choice than refinancing or pursuing a cash-out refi, especially if your goal is to pay off mounting bills or

RE-Weekly.com

fund a renovation or big-ticket purchase.

“I’m not a big fan of rolling consumer debt into a home loan by refinancing every few years. Refinancing into a new 15 or 30 years fixed first loan sounds attractive, but without the discipline of making additional monthly payments toward principal, a client is then financing short-term debt like credit cards or car payments over 30 years – a pattern that can negatively impact the wealth generated by homeownership,” Selland says. “A HELOC provides a middle ground solution.”

Blomquist expects that HELOC originations will continue to increase for the foreseeable future.

“The fundamentals of the market, low housing inventory, slow housing starts, and growing household formation should keep home values rising for at least the next 18 months,” he says. “But don’t just take out a HELOC simply because you have the equity – use it for a specific need that may require a large amount of cash and that’s going to improve the equity in your home.

And certainly don’t leverage a HELOC to live beyond your means.”

Additionally, shop around for HELOC lenders carefully.

“Find a professional mortgage lender who is knowledgeable about the benefits and risks of various HELOC options in the market,” says R. Patrick Lamb, president of Homeowners Financial Group in Scottsdale, Ariz. “Being well educated is the most important thing to avoid taking out a loan that’s not in your personal best interest.”

February 10, 2017

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!

RealEstate weekly In print and online

February 10, 2017

goskagit.com

RE-Weekly.com

SKAGIT PUBLISHING

ads@skagitads.com

5

www.WindermereSkagit.com RESIDENTIAL W NE

814 S. Anacortes St, Burl $300,000 Spacious rambler in a peaceful setting with a large family room & a large office area. Over half an acre of fenced yard, private setting, & covered patio in the back. 30 x 24 insulated shop plus a 30 x 12 lean to. Home has a new septic, new paint inside & out. Roof is 7 years old. Oversized laundry room was once a bedroom. Gas is stubbed to the kitchen stove, dryer, & to the shop.

Call Beck Elde, 770-9427 MLS#1035601

!

W NE

308 Hawthorne St, Burl $198,000 Charming 3 bedroom 1 bath rambler in Burlington.

This home features beautiful vaulted wood planked ceilings in the living room. Hardwood floors run throughout the living room & 2 of the bedrooms.

New vinyl in the kitchen & new paint outside & inside. The backyard is fenced & features a large covered patio for entertaining. Close to shopping & amenities.

Call Nathan Loeb, 333-7197 MLS#1074679 NE

W

!

1520 Lindsay Loop $255,000 Beautiful 1,700 SF Condo in Maddox creek community! Master bedroom, kitchen, & living area on main floor, bonus room located upstairs, 2 bedrooms & full bath on the lower floor. Westerly facing deck on the main floor, patio on the lower floor. 2 car garage. Ground Level Entry!

Call Spencer, 708-0634 or Megan O’Bryan, 708-5817 MLS#1075663 49 Willow Lane, MV $298,500 Hard to find triplex in good rental location.

Walking distance to restaurants, groceries, etc.

Additional income is from coin operated laundry located on site. Parking for several cars located at street frontage.

Call Dave Patterson, 708-5030 MLS#1005746

6268 State Route 20, ANA $750,000 Peaceful 17.5 acres in highly desirable location w/ opportunities for beautiful mountain & water views. Large 2,400 SF shop w/230 volt electrical service & 1,440 SF covered storage area perfect for RV & more. Concrete driveway winds thru the beautifully timbered property.

Well installed on property. Campbell Lake views.

Call April Axthelm, 661-4947 MLS#1066676 13278 Bay View Lane, Bayview $975,000 Bay View home situated on 2.5 acres. 3,800+ SF of luxurious living space. 2 master suites. Designer kitchen with stainless appliances, double ovens, granite counters, & spacious island. Media, bonus room with .5 bath.

Outdoor living area. 44X32 attached RV garage.

Call Linda Eastman, 202-4075 MLS#1008047

!

5324 Cedar Ridge Place, SW $475,000 Custom home with amazing views. 3 beds, 2.75 baths, 2,636 SF. Over-sized deck to sit & relax.

Loft area upstairs makes a perfect guest room, play area, or office space. Raised beds for gardening plus peach, apple, pear, cherry & plum trees.

Blueberries, Marion, Tayberries & Gooseberries, plus a garden shed.

Call Becky Elde, 770-9427 MLS#1073148

16708 Britt Rd, MV 1,100,000 Boxwood Farm is that rare combination of stately home & small acreage farm. Privately situated on fertile Skagit farmland, w/options for agricultural &/or equestrian pursuits. Horse-ready w/paddock, fencing, loafing shed, great barn. 240 SF greenhouse. The lovely, fully-updated Williamsburg Colonial is warm, welcoming & centers on a gourmet kitchen & sunny great room. A gracious home, designed for both comfortable daily living & expansive entertaining options.

Call Megan O’Bryan, 708-5817 MLS#924351

VACANT LAND

19551 Burkland Rd, MV $490,000 Rare 30 acres of Skagit Valley farm land for sale with approx. 1,670 SF, 3 bed, 2 bath home on property. Sits in the heart of Skagit valley & offers premium soil in a beautiful location. Located in the highly sought after Conway School District.

Call Jim Koetje, 202-2500 MLS#1044964

6110 State Route 20, ANA $164,000 Fantastic level 2.54 acres in highly desirable location with opportunities for views. Excellent neighborhood location. Waiting for your new home! Anacortes Municipal water available on SR 20. Anacortes School District. Property zoned rural intermediate.

Call April Axthelm, 661-4947 MLS#1067094

22622 N Starbird Rd, MV $575,000 Desirable Conway location. Gorgeous water views, 5 bed 2,800+ SF home, & monitor barn/shop all on 6+ acres. This custom home features hardwoods, SS appliances, river rock FP, double master, formal DR, & tons of storage. Barn w/roll up doors on either end for pass thru, & loft w/winch, asphalt driveway, outdoor fire pit, patio & deck.

Equestrian potential.

Call Jamie Yantis, 540-5264 MLS#1041825

1300 Digby Pl, MV $199,500 2 Parcels approved for a total of 8 units zero lot line view town-homes. Building plans are complete. All utilities are available at property. Close to shopping, schools, & hospital.

Call Dick Nord, 661-6529 MLS#1045167

9674 Samish Island Rd $699,990 Incredible property! 157 ft of medium bank waterfront. Almost an acre & it includes a darling duplex. Each unit is 1 bed, 1 bath. They have a nice shared laundry room with storage for each unit.

Views from the property are amazing.

Call Sarah Minton, 770-3076 MLS#804056

Ershig Rd, Bow $249,000 The time is now! Build your dream home on just over 14 private acres in beautiful Bow with private well in place.

Gentle slope pasture would make a great home for the animals, barn, or for you to enjoy. Brand new homes all around, this will make for a great investment, meandering creek at front edge of property, mostly cleared with some trees around edges to create privacy. Sits well off Ershig Road via access easement. SkagitValleyHomes.com.

Call, Danley/Krieger, 488-3858 MLS#1073585

Skagit Valley • 1030 E College Way • Mount Vernon • (360) 424-4901 April Axthelm Balisa Koetje Becky Elde Bette Thompson Bill Krieger Brett Johnson Cory Keihn Dave Patterson

6

360-661-4947 360-421-4111 360-770-9427 360-840-5109 360-421-4446 360-661-3825 360-441-1760 360-708-5030

David Mani Dawn Hardman Deborah McNeal Dick Nord Don Neill Donna Rowell Elizabeth Miller

425-319-7091 360-540-0058 360-707-8073 360-661-6529 360-420-4444 360-708-7984 360-420-3607

George Bellos Geri Cole Harry Ota Hollie Del Vecchio Jake Koetje Jamie Yantis Jim Glackin

360-708-9762 360-391-1614 360-708-3500 360-525-5538 360-466-8045 360-540-5264 360-428-2828

Jim Koetje Karen Beckner Karen Peirolo Karine Anderson Leah Hines Linda Eastman Megan O’Bryan

RE-Weekly.com

360-202-2500 360-840-9455 360-348-0480 360-421-1189 360-428-3012 360-202-4075 360-708-5817

You know Windermere sells hou lots of houses. Well, we also se of commercial property, and we sell a lot more with another sma hardworking commercial broke you’re serious about your real e career, and understand comme real estate is different from resi call us for more information. ww

North Cascades • 520 Cook Road Nathan Loeb Nicole Ganske Rita Ingram Sarah Minton Shawn Danley Shelby Hagman Shelly Hanson Spencer Roozen

360-333-7197 360-941-8999 360-708-8338 360-770-3076 360-488-3858 360-982-0163 360-420-2565 360-708-0634

Tahlia Honea Tasha Zahlis Terri Heyntsen Tessa Jarvis Tiffany Danley Travis Miller Warren Bingham

360-333-5815 360-391-5075 360-391-0938 360-503-1939 360-298-4857 360-420-7291 360-770-2421

February 10, 2017

www.AnacortesRealEstate.com RESIDENTIAL

LAND 1401 16th Street, Anacortes $285,000 Wonderful vintage home ready for remodel or addition to build duplex. Site is on corner with view toward bay and mountains. Large detached garage and space for garden and RV. Laundry room, walk in closet, and 2nd bath were added to home in 2003, new furnace is 1998. Siding on addition and upstairs above is wood product.

Upstairs are 2 bedrooms with space to expand.

Garage 880 SF. Linda Macy 360.708.8284 MLS# 1040288

127 Lummi Cir, La Conner $549,500 Wonderful low bank waterfront home in Shelter Bay with a 30’ dock. Light filled home with beautiful brick flooring & Russian Fp. Views to bay, allowing you to enjoy the boat traffic & peaceful setting for entertaining or just relaxing. Enjoy all that historic La Conner has to offer just minutes away. All the amenities of Shelter Bay included: Golf Course, 2 Pools, Community Center, Tennis Courts, Private Beach & Marina. It’s all here in this well cared for home of your dreams!

Rebecca Chamberlain 421.5021 Kim Wilson 333.2490 MLS# 961801

usesell a lot e could art, er. If estate ercial idential,

ww.SkagitCountyCommercial.com

d • Sedro-Woolley • (360) 856-4901 Bill Robillard Bob Hyde Carla Keel Caroline Baumann Catherine Mers Christine Cleland-McGrath Cheryl Frazier Colleen Craig

February 10, 2017

360-770-4707 360-661-0756 360-770-0743 360-202-7327 360-982-6831 360-708-0267 360-202-4789 360-770-9638

W

CE

!

14341 Jura Dr, Anacortes $550,000 Wonderful, one level, 3 BD, 2 BA home with 90+ feet of low bank waterfront, including tidelands. Stunning views of Similk Bay, Mt. Baker and islands from almost every room. Protected waters for kayaking, sailing, and boating. Butter clams, steamers, crabs & fishing at your doorstep. Dead end road with little traffic. Great summer get-away or residence. Carport with enclosed storage space. Some of the wildlife includes otters, seals, eagles, herons, kingfishers, and ducks.

Margi Houghton 360.202.0041 MLS# 1054462

18490 Redstone Wy, Mount Vernon $1,200,000 Perched high above picturesque Skagit Valley w/magnificent 180* views to the west out to the sound & to Mt. Baker from your kitchen window! Quality custom home w/rich finishes, dramatic walls of windows & sumptuous attention to detail. Gracious entertaining spaces.

1 bdrm guest house beneath 2-car detached garage. Outdoor areas feature lg. wrap around deck, fire pit, trellised picnic area & beautiful lush grounds. Private gated estate on shy 20 acres. Located between Seattle and Vancouver BC. Leigh Zwicker 360.333.9975 MLS# 1048321 19817 & 19815 Apostolic Wy, Burlington $275,000 19817 (P62339) is approx. 58,000 SF & has 2004 mobile home on it. 19815 (P62336) is approx. 16,600 SF & includes an approx.

1860 SF building used as a church & older mobile which could be used as a classroom.

County issued two lot certs. End of property is supposed to revert to City of Burlington. Buyer should consult w/city for present & future uses.

Judy Moore 360.770.3515 MLS# 821126

W

!

Lot 46 Island View Dr, Guemes Isl $298,000 This stunning 5.4 acre high bank waterfront property has beautiful views of Padilla Bay, Huckleberry, Saddlebag and Hat Islands and the Cascade Mountains. The terrain is lightly treed with evergreens and Madronas and rock outcrops with moss and ferns. A well is on property and power is at the road. A geological study and septic design has been done in the past.

Margi Houghton 360.202.0041 MLS# 1070832 67 Kalama Pl, La Conner $49,900 Ready to build your dream home on large, level, cleared lot with underground utilities on quiet, dead-end street. Enjoy Shelter Bay amenities including golf, tennis, beach, swimming pools, tennis courts & marina. Moorage available!

MLS# 972503 Jackie Stone 360.661.2247 Lot 83 Holiday Blvd, Guemes Isl $195,000 There are stunning 180 degree southwestern views of the Guemes Channel and islands from this park-like high bank waterfront lot. Power is at the road and this property has a water share with the Holiday Hideaway Water Association.

Beach and moorage rights at 3 coves. Guemes is only an eight minute ferry ride from Anacortes and 90 minutes from Seattle.

Margi Houghton 360.202.0041 MLS# 1056428 2806 West 3rd Pl, Anacortes $225,000 7,754 Sq Ft. lot located in The Highlands a premier custom home neighborhood. Nestled against the lush backdrop of the Cranberry Lake Forest lands. The Highlands enjoy some of the most stunning views on Fidalgo Island.

Colleen Craig 360.770.9638 MLS# 1014083

Anacortes • 3018 Commercial Ave • Anacortes • (360) 293-8008 Cynthia Aanestad Debbie Macy Donna Cunningham Gina Davis Jack Dixon Jackie Stone Jeannine Reinig Jessica Notaro

360-610-0120 360-391-2422 770-335-7513 360-708-7794 360-941-5000 360-661-2247 360-724-8555 360-202-1441

Joan Handelmann John Prosser Judy Moore Kathy Rogers Kristi Gabrielse Kim Wilson Leigh Zwicker Linda Macy

RE-Weekly.com

360-202-4800 360-202-3891 360-770-3515 360-941-4400 360-420-3119 360-333-2490 360-333-9975 360-708-8284

Margi Houghton Nate Scott Paul Weisz Rebecca Chamberlain Rick Bennett Rob Skelton Sarah Jones Tracy Peterson-Foy

360-202-0041 360-708-2354 360-391-7281 360-421-5021 360-202-2630 360-488-3776 360-333-2783 360-708-1833

1573485

NE

I PR

14175 Cove Ct, Anacortes $625,000 Stately Seaview home on .72 acre. Classic elegance includes living room with vaulted ceilings & formal dining area. Roomy kitchen adjoins comfy family room. Floor to ceiling windows provide lots of light and frame the lovely view of the rolling front yard & distant water view. Spacious master includes sitting area with cozy fireplace, master bath with jetted tub & oversized walk-in closet. Large patio for outdoor enjoyment. 3 car garage. Del Mar membership includes private beach access.

Cynthia Aanestad 360.610.0120 MLS# 1053145

NE

7

Co-Sign Concern Question:

We have been asked to co-sign a mortgage.

This is not something we want to do, even though a close relative is involved. How do we get out of this?

Answer:

Such a request should not be seen as surprising.

According to a 2015 study by the National Association of Realtors, 24 percent of all firsttime buyers purchase with a gift from relatives or friends.

Co-signing a mortgage is essentially like a financial gift, but it’s different in a very important sense: If you give a gift of money, that’s it – your obligation is limited to that amount. However, if you co-sign a mortgage and there’s a default, you can be responsible for any and all unpaid money owed to the lender.

For this reason co-signing is not something to undertake without caution, it is a serious

financial commitment.

Also, co-signing a mortgage can impact your credit.

According to TransUnion, one of the three major credit reporting agencies, “Essentially, when you co-sign on a loan, you are taking on legal responsibility for the account, and it will appear as your obligation on your credit report.”

Some alternatives to co-signing look like this: First, see if the borrowers qualify for downpayment assistance. There are thousands of programs nationwide.

Second, see why a co-signer is needed. If there is a credit issue perhaps a gift can be made to reduce credit card bills or other obligations, a step that can raise credit scores.

Third, have the borrower check his or her credit reports for errors and out-of-date items that can reduce credit scores. Free reports are available from AnnualCreditReport.com.

Fourth, take a look at what the borrower really needs. Maybe they should be borrowing less given their savings, credit standing, and housing needs, and by borrowing less perhaps they won’t need a co-signer. Not an easy

Q& A

ASK OUR BROKER

By Peter G. Miller

conversation but realism counts. Perhaps a friendly real estate broker or loan officer can suggest a “right-sized” loan amount.

Fifth, maybe you can help the borrowers other ways as in “I can’t co-sign at this time because of other financial obligations, but I can help with some down payment money. Would that be good for you?”

Lastly, you have the right to say no. It’s your credit standing and you don’t need a reason or justification to turn down a financial request.

Such a decision might be discomforting at family dinners but don’t let social pressure force a decision you don’t want to make. If someone other than the borrower says you really should co-sign, suggest that it might be a great opportunity for them.

RE-Weekly.com VISIT RE-WEEKLY.COM TO EASILY SEARCH FOR LOCAL REAL ESTATE LISTINGS! EASY TO USE TOOLS & THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION FOR FINDING LOCAL REAL ESTATE 8

RE-Weekly.com

February 10, 2017

S

ome of the most important tax write-offs available exclusively to those who own homes (including, in many cases, vacation or second homes) are:

Time for

Taxes What homeowners need to know before filing February 10, 2017

nM ortgage and home loan interest deductibility. You can deduct the interest on a mortgage of up to $1 million used to purchase a home, as well as the interest on a home equity loan of up to $100,000. n Mortgage interest credit, available to lower-income buyers who received a qualified Mortgage Credit Certificate. Unlike the mortgage interest deduction, this is a credit that reduces your tax liability dollar for dollar. n Discount points, paid at closing for a home purchase or refinance, that enabled you to borrow at below current market rates (each point equates to 1 percent of the size of your mortgage loan).

Certain rules apply, but in general the cost may be deducted dollar for dollar in the year in which they were paid; with a refinance, however, points are usually amortized over the loan’s life. n Real estate taxes paid to state and local taxing bodies, which can typically be deducted in the year in which they’re paid. n Casualty losses, which can occur, for instance, if a major storm impaired your residence. The write-off is based on the net loss after insurance has been

RE-Weekly.com

paid and has to exceed 10 percent of your adjusted gross income. n Home offices. If you work from your house, you can usually deduct expenses associated with running an eligible home office, such as utility costs to heat and cool the space, fees to remodel the room, and more. Qualifying for these write-offs, however, can be difficult, although the IRS introduced a simplified option for home office deduction last year that makes this process easier.

Even if it’s too late to qualify for some of the aforementioned deductions on your 2016 tax return, you may be able to claim these and other tax breaks in the future, so count on keeping good records and planning ahead, say the experts.

There are many strategies available to maximize these tax deductions, but it pays to enlist the help of a professional accountant or tax planner, says Mark Luscombe, principal analyst with Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting U.S. in Riverwoods, Ill. “Homeowners should familiarize themselves with the rules and consult with tax experts, as professional expertise is helpful in identifying possible tax breaks and avoiding costly mistakes,” Luscombe says.

For full details on what homeowners can and cannot deduct, visit tinyurl.com/pqmc34q.

9

2009 WooDRIDgE aVENUE, moUNt VERNoN

$375,000 17714 KINgFIShER CoVE laNE, BIg laKE Custom, 3 bed/2.75 bath beautifully appointed 1,600+ sq.ft. home featuring, ceramic tile backsplash in kitchen, tile floors in entry and bath; vaulted ceilings, skylights, hardwoods and walk-in closet. Fully fenced and walk-in closet. Fully fenced yard offers covered deck, garden space and fruit trees. Garage with 200 amp service, extra storage and work bench. MLS#1073807 Danya Wolf

Danya Wolf Carla Fischer

360-708-8294

360-708-8294 360-982-0010

15XXX mEaDoWlaRK laNE, moUNt VERNoN $79,900 23786 Kamloop Ct., moUNt VERNoN $150,000

63 WIlloW laNE, moUNt VERNoN

All city amenities available at street’ including PUD water, electricity, natural gas, cable TV, city sewer and city garbage pick-up. Lovely evergreens and deciduous trees. Over 1/5 of Danya Wolf 360-708-8294 an acre! Includes two tax parcels!

MLS #863875

Permit-able for in home business. Roomy, 1,700 sq. ft. 3 bedroom, 1 3/4 bath 1 1/2 story home on spacious 1/3 acre lot in convenient location. Updated interior, country kitchen, charm of yesteryear. Easy access to everything!

Shopping, schools, bus line and medical.

Zoned for possible in-home business. Plenty of parking, including for RV. Nicely fenced back yard with fruit tree and other trees.

MLS #1008048

Large lot in Nookachamp Hills Community. Beautiful country setting overlooks a private lake for you to enjoy. Less than 10 minute Yolanda Sakuma drive to the city of 360-421-0435 Mount Vernon. All utilities are stubbed to the lot.

MLS #1059504

13813 StatE RoUtE 9, moUNt VERNoN (5 aCRES)

$239,000

Beautiful view property, ready for you to build your dream home. PUD water, power and 3 bedroom septic surrounded by a circular driveway or continue on to another wonderful building site - cleared, level, and with spectacular mountain view! New gravel road is partially paved.

Good access from Highway 9 for easy driving into proper ty.

I-5 minutes a w a y.

Watch for signage.

MLS#1014931 Carla Fischer Celia Miller

Be sure to ‘LIKE’ us on Facebook to be entered into a Valentine’s Day Drawing. www.facebook.com/ Skagittraditionrealty

Mount Baker view from one of the premier large lots (10,972 Sq. Ft.) in beautiful Eaglemont! Builder/Owner will build for you or bring your own builder!

All utilities are in and ready for you to build. Complete set of plans for a beautiful home on this lot is negotiable. Builder completed 1806 and 1808 Bakerview Ct. MLS #848246

$250,000

Danya Wolf

360-708-8294

1238 tolEDo St, BEllINgham

3418 tRUmpEtER DRIVE, moUNt VERNoN

$348,000 Comfortable, inviting 3 Bed/1.75 Bath rambler in desirable cul de sac location close to schools, Skagit Valley College, shopping and easy access to I-5. This beautiful home features stunning kitchen with fabulous cabinets, soft close drawers, countertops and stainless appliances. Beautiful updated flooring and carpets throughout this well maintained home. MLS #1066443

360-982-0010

Danya Wolf Suzanne Jenkins Brett Tacker Sandy Everett JoAnn Boudreau Celia Miller Donna Kurras Elva Hunter John Hunter Russ Lanker Shirley Bertholf Carla Fischer Yolanda Sakuma Patricia Box

$165,000

John Hunter

360-202-3854

$359,950

Partial bay and city view.

4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms.

Master bath has walk-in handicap tub and extra vanity, tile floor at bath and kitchen, stainless appliances, dishwasher, range, refrigerator, washer Joan Boudreau and dryer stay with house. 360-391-0746 Gas fireplace, Oak floors, 2 large decks, storage building at back of house.

Located near schools, event locations and shopping.

MLS #1040211

Carla Fischer

360-982-0010 360-391-6065

1804 BaKERVIEW CoURt, EaglEmoNt

$950,000 Waterfront home with 75 ft of lake frontage with private dock! Custom Spanish Style home w/ sweeping staircase up to luxurious master suite. Kitchen with granite and sub-zero refrigerator; radiant heat; skylights; vaulted ceilings; surround sound; built in vac; rec room and bonus/storage room. Fantastic views from choice of 3 decks!. MLS #1007986

Danya Wolf

360-708-8294

360.708.8294 360.941.2983 360.840.7931 360.202.3706 360.391.0746 360.391.6065 360.770.7596 360.202.3086 360.202.3854 360.708.1117 360.840.1863 360.982.0010 360.421.0435 360.941.9186

3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon

360.424.0300

www.skagittraditionrealty.com 12

RE-Weekly.com

1573204

February 10, 2017