RE-Weekly 12/23/2016

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

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This Issue This Issue

HOW TOTally GET TheDEAL Real A GOOD of IN A CosTs SELLER’S ReloCaTing MARKET P.P.44

The aRT Q & of A: youR AskDeal Our P. 8-9 Broker P. 8

Q & a: ask ouR BRokeR SMARTER

P. 9 HOMES SELL P. 9

ClassifieDs FEATURE HOME:

P. 10-11

SEE PAGE 5 FOR MORE

Classifieds

$479,000 360.391.2422

P. 10 -11

1548755

3916 CoTTage PlaCe, anaCoRTes Debbie Macy

a supplement to the skagit Valley herald and the anacortes american

DECEMBER 23 – 29,2016 2016 xxxxxxxxxx,

Re-Weekly content sponsored by: Northwest Fine Furnishings

Pharmacy lamps, funky printed pine cabinets, entertainment centers, painted benches, wooden toys, cheval mirrors with jewelry storage, wooden coat trees & coat racks, round sofas and much more!!!

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Q & A: Ask our Broker.............................. P. 8 Smarter Homes sell................................. P. 9 Classifieds.........................................P. 10-11

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1550403

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BURLINGTON

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MOUNT VERNON

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

Territory NW T

PAGE

How to get a good deal in a seller’s market.................................. P. 4

SKAGIT PUBLISHING

Mon - Sat 9:30-5:30, Sun 11-4 (360) 424-8455 www.nwff.com 919 Riverside Drive, Mount Vernon

INSIDE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

www.SkagitValleyRealEstate.com

D AN TL N CA VA

Sedro-Woolley $54,900 Skagit River in Janicki Cove. Private gated community.

Power, water and septic on property. 169 SF shed. Fruit trees. Private boat launch for residents. Recreationaltemporary. MLS #1039184 Call Wilma, 661-1631

Burlington

La Conner

Mount Vernon $450,000 Mount Vernon $1,100,000 Wonderful custom home in Conway. Open floor plan w/kitchen & dining area adjoining lg. Farm on over 82 level acres. 2 story home built in ’94 w/3,800 SF. 3 BR, 2.5 BA, 3 additional bonus rms. Hay barn w/metal living room. Beautiful granite counters in kitchen w/lots of cabinets & walk-in pantry.

2 master suites both w/walk-in closets and Jacuzzi tubs. Private location – approx. 5.1 acres roof-great for barn dance! Additional barns & machine shop.

Grapes, berries, fruits & organic garden. MLS #1037407 & 2,552 SF home. Oversized 2 car garage w/shop area. 3 Trex decks. MLS #980196 Call Ivana, 770-3550 Call Charlie, 708-1415 or Jeannie, 708-9645

Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

Wilma Louia Designated Broker/Owner 661-1631

2

Charlie & Jeannie Boon 708-9645

upscale development. Build your dream home here.

Panoramic views of the valley! MLS #1021573 Call Charlie, 708-1415 or Jeannie, 708-9645

Jim Stransky 708-1681

Kirk Campbell 770-7470

Ron Van Pelt 333-1045

La Conner $399,950 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, 708-8800

Elizabeth Detillion 708-8800

Ivana Wood 770-3550

Mike Welling 540-1341

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Debbie Benjamin 708-8780

Corinne Cartwright 202-2397

Jennifer Baker 220-1526

Laura Kaestner 441-5099

Traci Erickson Property Manager 755-5555

1550067

$449,900

First time on market in over 118 years!

Wonderful views. Parlor & formal dining room w/coved ceiling. Gourmet kitchen w/custom Hertco cabinets.

Vertical grain fir floors. Douglas fir siding. MLS #1002150

$325,000

One of a kind valley view lot. 5-acre lot in secluded &

December 23, 2016

Feature Home From cover:

LAND TITLE AND ESCROW Local Professionals Serving our Community

ltco.com

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

Trusted Service for over 76 years

December 23, 2016

$479,000

Windermere indermere real estate/anac estate/anacortes Properties 3018 commercial ave. anacortes, Wa 360.293.8008 www.anacortesrealestate.com

1550042

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

3916 COTTAGE PLACE, ANACORTES

1548756

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DEBBIE MACY 360.391.2422

Exceptional finishes in one of the first homes built in the neighborhood of the Isles. Lightly lived in with many built-in elements. Slate & granite throughout this efficient Craftsman with picturesque views overlooking the Guemes Channel. Attention to quality & detail are present everywhere you look. Beautiful natural woodwork is a key element with clear finish fir doors & trim. Lower level has unique features. Community features lovely clubhouse. HOA covers outside maintenance. Fabulous home.

Offered at $479,000 MLS# 1044045

3

How to Get a Good Deal In a Seller’s Market Tips to help homebuyers get the best bargaining position

I

n the current real estate market, sellers hold most of the good cards and have been able to claim near top dollar for their properties for sale.

But that winning streak can’t continue forever. In fact, new data by Redfin indicates that the climate may be shifting gradually toward buyers.

Consider that, according to the Redfin report, home prices in August increased at the slowest rate of the year – up merely 4.4 percent from a year earlier – in spite of robust sales and decreasing inventory. The average residence sold for 93.8 percent of its list price, a decrease from 94.4 percent observed in 2015.

Many experts say that’s a signal that bargaining power for buyers is slightly improving.

“Redfin’s national findings aligned with what I have been seeing in the Washington, D.C. market While it’s still firmly a seller’s market, we are seeing slightly less competition and final sale prices that are closer to the asking price,” says Steve Centrella, a Redfin agent in Washington, D.C. “In a majority of homes, we aren’t seeing the same dramatic price escalations that were common over the prior two years. Where the most desirable homes in our area were selling within 4

5 to 7 days, now we’re seeing a couple of additional days added to that timeline.”

When properties sit on the market a bit longer, it gives decisive buyers a better chance to claim a property close to or at list price without having to compete against multiple offers, Centrella says.

Anthony Piccone, president of 7th Level Mortgage LLC in Cherry Hill, N.J., agrees that buyers have slightly stronger bargaining positions today, but not by much.

“There are fewer home showings occurring and, in my experience, homes have stayed listed on the market for a bit longer than usual,” Piccone says. “Sellers are a bit more eager to make concessions and sell after extended periods of waiting.”

In Denver, the market is stabilizing and buyers no longer have to come in way over asking price or engage in ultra-competitive bidding wars, says Nicholas Bowman, broker/owner of House Calls Realty in Denver.

“However, this is mostly due to the seasonal situation. No one wants to move in the winter in Colorado, so there’s always a surge of buying in the summer months,” Bowman says.

“But with rents skyrocketing in our

area, interest rates at record lows, and strong job growth, I believe more buyers will jump into the market and it will remain a strong seller’s market in 2017.”

Rick Sharga, chief marketing officer for Irvine, Calif.-headquartered Ten-X, an online real estate marketplace, says the nationwide seller’s market has persisted for so long because the inventory of existing homes for sale continues to languish far below normal levels.

“Six months’ supply is considered a balanced market, and we continue to see supply of four to four-and-half months nationally and even less in some of the hotter markets across the country,” Sharga says. As employment continues to improve, wages finally start to increase, and more households are formed, were likely to see demand for homes increase, which suggests that we are not going to see a bigger shift to a buyer’s market anytime soon.”

For the latter to happen, prices need to rise enough to minimize the number of homeowners in negative or near-negative equity positions; homebuilders must start breaking ground on new construction in meaningful numbers; and interest

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rates will have to remain at historically low levels, notes Sharga.

Meanwhile, buyers can help their cause by following a few suggested strategies.

“Make sure you monitor both your credit score and your debt-toincome ratio – these two factors are responsible for more mortgage declines than anything else. And start working with a mortgage expert 3 to 6 months out from your expected move-in date, which is plenty of time to fix any credit issues that need to be addressed,” Piccone says.

Additionally, “keep an eye on properties that have been on the market for an unusually long time or were listed, pulled back, and re-listed.

Those sellers may be ready to sell for a reasonable price,” Sharga says.

Centrella recommends waving any contingencies, including an escalation clause in the real estate contract, offering to pay some of the transfer taxes or a portion of the brokerage commissions, and appealing to the seller’s emotions by writing a personal letter to the seller.

“Ultimately, be patient. There are always more homes, and the right situation for you will present itself,” Centrella says.

December 23, 2016

Sandi riley 770-8670

NORTH HOMES REALTY INC. 1707 N. 33RD. PLACE, MOUNT VERNON R.V.

american dream real estate services, inc.

$222,000

G RKIN

PA

16715 BRITT ROAD, MOUNT VERNON ST JU

Sandi Riley 770-8670

$335,000

D! TE LIS

300 GIBSON STREET, SEDRO WOOLLEY

$208,900

SANDI R. 770-8670

SHELLEY C. 708-4377

SANDI R. 770-8670

*CLOSE TO SKAGIT VALLEY COLLEGE & ALL SERVICES, BIG CORNER LOT *3 BEDROOMS, 1.75 BATHS, GAS HEAT, CENTRAL “VAC” *HIGH OVERHEAD R.V. COVERED PARKING, 2 OUTBUILDING/SHOPS

*COUNTRY CLOSE TO TOWN, PRIVATE, PARK LIKE LG. LOT SETTING *FULLY FINISHED BASEMENT, 3 BEDROOMS, TOTAL OF 3 BATHS *”THEATER ROOM” + FAMILY ROOM, 2,554 SQ. FT., UPDATED!

*WALK TO DOWNTOWN & SERVICES, LG. CORNER LOT *NICE 3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH W/LG. GARAGE/SHOP + RV HOOKUP/DUMP *MOTIVATED SELLER, ATTENTION ALL VETERANS!!

1615 E. HIGHLAND AVE. MOUNT VERNON

$317,900

DING

905 35TH STREET, ANACORTES

$259,500

10128 132ND. ST. N.E., ARLINGTON

DING

PEN

Eaglemont Golf Course #1029439 • $499,900

!

VA!

$439,500

SOLD

PEN

SANDI R. 770-8670

SANDI R. 770-8670

SANDI R. 770-8670

*”TIMELESS TRADITIONAL” STYLING & APPEAL, UPDATED BEAUTY! *4 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHS, OPEN KITCHEN/FAMILY RM. W/FPL. *NEWER HARDIPLANK SIDING, GAS HEAT, QUIET ST. NEAR HOSPITAL

*SOLID “50’S” STYLE RAMBLER W/VINYL SIDING, GAS HEAT *3 BEDROOMS, OPEN PLAN W/LG. PICTURE WINDOWS, VIEWS OF BAY & MT. BAKER! *SOME HARDWOOD FLRS UNDER CARPET, BIG YARD, QUIET ST.

*GORGEOUS PARK LIKE “SHY” 10 ACRES W/PRIVACY PLUS CONVENIENCE! *RUSTIC CHARM W/CUSTOM CEDAR HOME CLOSE TO HWY #9, SMOKEY PT. NEAR BY *4 BD., 2+ BATHS, LG. FAMILY ROOM W/MASSIVE RIVER ROCK FIREPLACE

W WARMEST WISHES FOR A MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR 2017!!

7!!

Gorgeous Custom 3,070 sft, 4bd 2.5 bth house in Eaglemont Golf Course Community. Spacious, Bright & Private,high-end finishings. Formal dining & living rooms & office, Hardwood floors, extensive millwork, chef’s kitchen with granite slab, custom cabinets, top of the line appliances 2 drawer dishwasher open to family room & deck. Master bedroom with a tiled 5 piece master bath, giant walk in. Nest thermo, new water heater, 3 car garage w/epoxy coat, LED lights Low maintenance grounds & across from park!

1550022

“Fulfilling Northwest Family Dreams” Anacortes Office

1202 Commercial Ave Anacortes, WA 360-588-1515 • adrhomes.net

Mount Vernon Office

2788 E College Way Mount Vernon, WA 360-416-6500 • adrskagit.com

Like American Dream Real Estate Mount Vernon

www.adrhomes.net

1560498

Brown McMillen Real Estate 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

360.757.6013 800.869.7084 G DIN

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C PE

IS

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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HILLCREST PARK…. Great area, great price, great home!

This 2 BR, 1.75 BA charmer is 2 story with large backyard!

Won’t last long! $229,900 #1060319

CHARMING OLDER HOME… This home has loads of character and potential to restore. Spacious kitchen area, dining & living room with high ceilings & pocket glass doors.

4 BR, 1.5 BA, and just over 2100 SF. $200,000 #1052263

GOOD PLACE TO BUILD… Or place a MFG home.

20 acres w/water share included. Located just 4 miles from Sedro Woolley. $89,500. #891041

SAND & GRAVEL RESOURCE AVAILABLE. In an area of high quality sand and gravel deposit. Estimated by Sherwood Appraisal at 2.3 million tons of available aggregate. 1200 SF shop & office building on property. $1,350,000 #1049831

BURLINGTON CHARMER…Located in Vedere Terrace.

4 BR 1.75 BA home sitting just over 1400 SF. Large fenced backyard, fresh paint, & ready for new owner. $279,900 #1020406

CUSTOM BUILT…4802 SF 3 BR, 3 1/4 BA one level fully finished daylight basement. Kitchen w/granite & stainless.

Large corner lot w/fenced backyard. $525,000 #1024839

OUTSTANDING CLEAR LAKE HOME…come look! Nearly 4,000. SF home, interior recently refinished. Incredible views, 2 bay shop. Detached garage, big yard, mature landscaping. $589,500. #1039790

NEW PRICE…1 level home on 6th fairway of Country Club.

2 large BR, 3 BA open floor plan, & living room w/tray ceiling.

New roof, furnace, & much more! $330,000 #1024702

RIVER FRONTAGE…Offers spectacular panoramic views! 2 homes on 1.89 acres. 3 Br, 2 Ba Rambler & 2 bed 1 bath chalet style home. $375,000 #966598

ZONED INDUSTRIAL…Older 4 bdrm home located on 1.41 acres. Good business location. $249,500 #1030907

AFFORDABLE HOME...Contemporary 10 yr. old two story home in Sedro Woolley.3 BD 2.5 BA & workable floor plan.

2 car garage, priced to sell. $198,000. #1040879

MEDIUM BANK WATERFRONT...On Cypress Island, over 300 feet of waterfront. Log cabin w/loft & wood cook stove. Level & all useable, most of Cypress owned by DNR, very private. $299,000. #1046623

RARE 4 BR RAMBLER…Remodeled almost 2,000 SF, 4 BR, 1.75 BA home with 2 car garage & tons of room!

Nice location, close to Hillcrest Park. $269,995 #1060314

ONE OF A KIND…Beautifully designed for luxury living!

2 master bdrm suites, 2 family rooms, chef’s kitchen, 5 Baths, breakfast room, 5 acres fenced & much more. $860,000. #978235

MOUNT VERNON RAMBLER…3 BD 1 BA home on Fir St. Just over 1,000 SF with 2 car garage. Great starter home! $209,500 #1054260

BURLINGTON HOME...4 Bdrm home+ Den located on huge 33,515 SF lot that is fully fenced. Beautiful home! $319,900 #1040290

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME…Excellent 1/3-acre w/views of Big Lake & surrounding mtns. Ready to build on & close to golf course, just $75,000. #598013

708-8392

Jeff Ingman

202-2859

Tim Reichert

391-5587

Yvonne Brown

840-4375

Shelah Inman

661-0145

Ron Wortham

661-1500

Galen Kindred

770-7083

Jodi Dynes

333-7783

Mary Jo Reitsma

770-6013

Holly Hilts

661-5538

Fritz Inman

661-0147

Travis Lohman

661-4533

December 23, 2016

RE-Weekly.com

Terri Heyntsen Tod LeHecka Jan Scally David Parsons Dale Owenby

391-0938 333-1032 421-5160 391-4008 913-8662

1551007

Kristen Tuttle

MONEY MAKER…Automated car wash located near Western WA University. Priced for sale at 10 % CAP on actual 2015 Net Income. Great investment at $1,246,250. #817963

5

www.WindermereSkagit.com RESIDENTIAL 920 N. 16th St, MV $253,000 This mid-century rambler is an excellent value boasting 2 large living areas, 3 beds, 2 baths. Many updates & upgrades including all new flooring throughout, new paint, refinished kitchen, bathrooms, LED lighting, & more. Large windows, dining room, newer roof, & 2 wood fireplaces.

Enormous private city lot with fire pit, large porch, partially fenced, & lots of gardening space.

Call Cory Kiehn, 360-441-1760 #1035779

21865 Swan Rd, MV $459,900 Tastefully renovated home & a 5-bay shop on a desirable 1+ acre. A welcoming design with a Craftsman inspired style throughout. The main floor holds the open kitchen/living/dining, den, master suite, guest bed & bath with 2 beds, bath & a rec room on the lower floor. Chef’s kitchen offers granite, subway glass back splash & SS appliances.

SkagitValleyHomes.com.

Bill & Jannette Krieger 421-4446/Shawn & Tiffany Danley 360-298-4857 #1041701

9826 District Line Rd, Burl $299,999 Rambler in a country setting just minutes from I-5.

4 beds, 1.75 baths, 2,116 SF. 2 car garage and large shop on nearly .5 acre. Private backyard with views of farmland & Sterling Hill. Plumbing recently updated in home. Large remodeled rec room, living, laundry room, & kitchen with eating space highlight the interior. Home is located on a quiet street surrounded by established properties.

Call Brett Johnson, 661-3825 #1041632

17721 Tiffany Way. MV $499,500 Custom built home on 1.5 acres. Lovely 4 bed, 3 bath home boasts formal living room with valley view, formal dining room, kitchen & family room surrounded with windows looking out over the 1000 SF deck, new carpet, master suite with valley view, jetted tub, double vanity & French doors leading to a deck. Oversized 2 car garage.

Call Sarah Minton, 770-3076 #955145

2400 N. Laventure Rd, MV $325,000 This property is beautiful & large. Located inside the city, but very private at the end of a long driveway, this 2.2-acre property has large trees, open space & lots of room to play. Home has 4 bedrooms.

Call April Axthelm, 661-4947 #883055 607 Cedar Tree Drive, SW $319,000 Brickyard Creek community 3 bed, 2.75 bath rambler. Updated kitchen with granite, stainless appliances & stunning backsplash. Spacious floor plan with vaulted ceilings make this a great home for entertaining. New deck in front yard adds to curb appeal. Fully fenced backyard with deck, patio.

Call Shelby Hagman, 982-0163 #1035937 51102 Concrete Sauk Valley Rd, Concrete $350,000 Beautiful 10.42 acres with pasture & some marketable timber. Large ranch house which has been completely updated including new appliances. Shop is 30’X36’. 4 beds, 2 baths with a bonus room above the garage & a sunroom off the kitchen complete with a wood stove. This home is like brand new. Lots of room for your animals & for gardening.

Call Becky Elde, 770-9427 #1057353

707 Lilac Dr, MV $499,999 Stately Hilltop home with beautiful views. 3,171 SF home on large .32-acre corner lot. 3 car garage with storage area. Huge deck area. Spacious rooms, including open concept kitchen/breakfast nook/ great room with wall of view windows. Formal dining room, living room w/gas fireplace & vaulted ceiling. Office. Sweeping staircase leads to 3 large bedrooms upstairs.

Call Megan O’Bryan, 708-5817 or Spencer Roozen, 708-0634 #1030882 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 #1041825 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 #804056

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 #924351

VACANT LAND

Dike Road, MV $228,000 11.7 beautiful acres of level, productive Skagit Valley farmland with Lot Certification! Rare opportunity to build in a picturesque setting providing majestic Mount Baker and peaceful pastoral views as your backdrop. Power, Public Water & Natural Gas in street.

Call Elizabeth Miller, 420-3607 or Travis Miller, 420-7291 #940749 Old Hwy 99 N, Burlington $800,000 High visibility I-5 exposure at busy 4-way exit 232. Next to Starbucks. Level, retention pond in place, sewer & water in street. Approx 600 feet of frontage on Old Hwy 99 North. Very few freeway parcels this good remain.

Call Jim Scott, 424-4901 #1057842

Valentine Road, MV $225,000 Secluded 14.37 acres with a grove of trees at the back. PUD water & Power at the street. Short card allowed for 2 building sites; 1 acre each. Property is in open space. Beautiful private area to build your dream home on.

Call Becky Elde, 770-9427 #1057736

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

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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

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

Looking for hom

For a free p WA-CL 713524, OR-ML 5271

Amie Download my smartph

Amie Mani | NMLS ID # 404665 | branch manager/M

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

360-333-5815 B

Tasha Zahlis

360-391-5075 B

Tessa Jarvis

360-503-1939 C

Tiffany Danley

360-298-4857 C

Travis Miller

360-420-7291 C

Warren Bingham 360-770-2421 C

December 23, 2016

www.AnacortesRealEstate.com RESIDENTIAL !

W NE

1417 S 12th St, Mount Vernon $245,000 Charming updated 1939 home in the Hillcrest Park neighborhood that invites you in from the moment you open the front door. Living room has wonderful character w/ gas fireplace & large window letting in the natural light. Sunny large kitchen has a great bay window, granite counters & stainless appliances.

Updated bath with heated floors, lg soaking tub & double vanity w/granite counter. Large bonus room, updated electrical & windows, carport and a great backyard w/ garden space & newer deck.

Debbie Macy 360.391.2422 MLS# 1058976

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2308 24th St, Anacortes $525,000 Wonderful 2-story home near Anacortes Forest Land trails & 2 blocks off D Ave for great access to town.

Vaulted ceilings & 9’+ walls give an open airy feel throughout the home. An inviting central courtyard really brings the outside in. Open design kitchen w/ granite countertop & tile floors; casual dining nook & family room w/FP compliment the formal Living & Dining rooms. Great design features a guest BR & full bath on main level. Master suite & 2 additional bedrooms are upstairs. Make it yours.

Colleen Sargent 360.202.2155 MLS# 972629

me financing? I’m here to help!

pre-approval, please contact:

Mani • 360.428.4626 hone app at: amie.mortgagemapp.com

Mortgage Consultant | WMS Series LLC/Skagit Valley

d • Sedro-Woolley • (360) 856-4901

Bill Robillard

360-770-4707 Colleen Craig

Buzz Ely

!

2519 17th St, Anacortes $434,500 Wonderful home with key living on the main level & spacious lower level design that will suit many buyers. Lower level RV parking area plus attached 2-car garage. Huge covered porch w/ french doors for year around enjoyment & seasonal views of Guemes Channel. Newer SS appliances in the kitchen, high efficiency furnace, low maintenance styled yard & easy care hardiplank siding. Great shop in the oversized garage & a sense of privacy w/ access near Anacortes Forest Lands. Must see to appreciate.

Colleen Sargent 202.2155/ Debbie Macy 391.2422 MLS# 1058498 1018 Longview Ave, Anacortes $269,000 Great potential! This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home sits on a 9,000 SF lot in a great location. Spacious master, bath and walk-in closet are newer additions to the home. Kitchen has also been updated. Large deck off kitchen, fully fenced and basement/shop area with outside access. Garage is a tear-down and sits on platted City street - do not enter. Home is an estate and being sold as-is. Bring your remodeling skills and return this vintage home to its original charm.

Cynthia Aanestad 360.610.0120 MLS# 1038220 10134 Halloran Rd, Bow $789,000 Live the Samish Island Lifestyle! This estate home sits on a shy 2 Ac with 180 degree panorama view of Padilla Bay & Islands beyond.

Classic traditional home offers spacious floor plan with gracious rooms & living space. Large adjoining Living-Dining offers plenty of room to entertain all your ‘Island Guests’! Walls of windows and French doors bring in loads of natural light and the incredible views...Bonus of salt air! 835 FT of community waterfront offers easy crabbing and clamming.

Leigh Zwicker 360.333.9975 MLS# 1019768

10989 Josh Green Ln #4, La Conner $750,000 Rare opportunity to own this one of a kind premier boathouse at the Gateway to the San Juans. Unique & impressive design, the interior well is 85 X 24 and can accommodate up to 90+-’ yacht or several smaller boats. Top of the line galvanized steel construction, concrete float design, private gangway access, remote control roll-up boat doors plus mezzanine level that can be finished into office. Located at the jumping off point to the best cruising waters in the US & Canada.

Debbie Macy 360.391.2422 MLS# 964734 3320 Oakes Ave, Anacortes $1,299,000 This fantastic remodeled waterfront home overlooking the Guemes Channel has 180 degree view of islands & Mt. Baker. Home is equipped with high end appliances, has a concrete deck & abundance of parking including room for an RV or large boat. Breathtaking views & spacious lot gives waterfront living a new meaning.

Bill Robillard 360.770.4707 MLS# 882708 345 Reed Bay Rd, Decatur Island $459,000 This gorgeous west-facing parcel and a “like new” home, beautifully renovated by Decatur Construction and Dupar Design, sits above the community beach on Reeds Bay and has wonderful views from every room in the house. Being sold “turn-key” w/designer finishes, new electric, plumbing, appliances, covered deck, lovely wood cabinetry and granite countertops. Easy access to private dock and airstrip and 10 ac waterfront park and only a short water taxi ride from Anacortes. Phone and DSL available.

Sarah Jones 360.333.2783 MLS# 910368 357 Davis Bay Rd, Decatur Island $399,900 Perfect investment for VRBO or your own beach “getaway”. This classic bungalow has 339 sf updated living space on upper level w/insulated windows, vaulted ceiling and lots of open sleeping space; and the rest of the house is right out of a 1920’s time capsule with a sunny country kitchen, main floor bedroom, dining area, living room and unfinished basement. The homesite is incredible with stairs to a lovely sandy beach, where the water taxi can drop you off right in front. Incl mooring buoy.

Sarah Jones 360.333.2783 MLS# 920895 419 34th St, Anacortes $349,000 Fabulous investment opportunity. Updated in 2010 this craftsman style home is located in the industrial Zone in Anacortes. Home is 1,360 SF while the commercial Shop/ is an additional 1,008 SF Shop area has additional kitchen, bth, laundry. Property has easy access and plenty of parking (including RV) and boasts 2 storage shops.

Zoning allows for a multitude of business opportunities including office, repair facilities, warehousing etc. Shop is insulated and finished. Bring your dreams.

Paul Weisz 360.391.7281 MLS# 1042981

1600 5th St #D-160, Anacortes $125,000 A Picturesque resort feeling Marina tucked into the Old Town Neighborhood close to restaurants & shopping. Open slip 55’ with 7’8” Max Stick out by 16’2” wide. Marina amenities: tender storage area, small boat moorage on dock, head pump out cart, wood shop, recycling for oil, fuel & anti freeze, laundry rm, library, restrooms with showers, crab cooking station, social area with BBQ’s full parameter fence and electronic gate for security, Harbor master lives on site. Rented for $525 per month.

Kathy Rogers 360.941.4400 MLS# 885495 3905 Isle Wy, Anacortes $448,000 Enjoy wonderful, active views of Guemes Channel & San Juans from The Isles. The Isles is a new development that provides quality homes that are low maintenance, energy efficient & ecologically responsible. Custom cabinets of alder, fir wainscoting, cherry floors, slab granite, beautiful tiles, ductless heat pump, surround sound, designer carpet and fixtures are some of the features in this home.

Clubhouse, waterfall, outdoor living area and maintained grounds.

Margi Houghton 360.202.0041 MLS# 918368 5705 Sugarloaf St, Anacortes $449,500 Beautiful new construction one level home in a great location close to Washington Park, marinas, beaches and all Skyline amenities. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home features granite countertops throughout, stainless steel appliances, open living concept perfect for entertaining, large master suite with oversized bathroom and walk in closet, spacious utility room right off garage.

Debbie Macy 360.391.2422 MLS# 1042646 1 Trump Island, Decatur Island $7,750,000 Custom Build Luxury Estate on Private Island, enjoy your own Forests, Farm & Ocean Fronts. Located in the San Juan’s this 29 Acre Island captures the iconic beauty of the beautiful Pacific NW. 360 degrees of water & forest views. 4230’ saltwater frontage w-tidelands. Architectural excellence w-contemporary design, superior quality & top of the line finishes throughout makes this a truly SPECTACULAR home.

Completely self-sustained environment. Power & Water. Caretakers Cottage & Dock!

Leigh Zwicker 360.333.9975 MLS# 648615

Anacortes • 3018 Commercial Ave • Anacortes • (360) 293-8008 360-770-9638 Gina Davis

360-708-7794 Joan Handelmann

360-202-4800 Leigh Zwicker

360-333-9975 RebeccaChamberlain

360-421-5021

360-202-4626 Colleen Sargent Caroline Baumann 360-202-7327 Cynthia Aanestad Catherine Mers 360-982-6831 ChristineCleland-McGrath 360-708-0267 Debbie Macy

360-202-2155 Jack Dixon

360-941-5000 John Prosser

360-202-3891 Linda Macy

360-708-8284 Rick Bennett

360-202-2630

360-610-0120 Jackie Stone

360-661-2247 Judy Moore

360-770-3515 Margi Houghton

360-202-0041 Rob Skelton

360-488-3776

360-391-2422 Jeannine Reinig

360-724-8555 Kathy Rogers

360-941-4400 Nate Scott

360-708-2354 Sarah Jones

360-333-2783

Cheryl Frazier

770-335-7513 Jessica Notaro

360-202-1441 Kristi Gabrielse

360-420-3119 Paul Weisz

360-391-7281 Vickie Cooley

206-949-1010

360-202-4789 Donna Cunningham

December 23, 2016

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Safe ARM? Question:

We know that fixed mortgage rates are low, but adjustable-rate financing is even lower. Why shouldn’t we finance with an ARM?

Answer:

Despite attractive initial interest rates, ARMs represent fewer than 5 percent of all mortgage originations according to Ellie Mae. In mid-October, Freddie Mac reported 30-year, fixed-rate prime financing was priced at 3.47 percent versus 2.82 percent for a 5/1 ARM, a form of financing which has a fixed rate for the first five years of the loan term and then adjusts up or down annually.

In practical terms the difference is this: If you

borrow $175,000 at 3.47 percent the monthly payment for principal and interest is $782.90.

The same loan at 2.82 percent would have a monthly cost of $720.93 for the first five years of the loan term.

The difference between the two loans is $61.97 a month, $744 annually and $3,720 over five years. Not only that, but because of the lower monthly cost a borrower can finance a larger loan with an ARM. Given this reality how come borrowers are not lining up for ARM financing?

The answer concerns the issue of risk.

One of the great lessons of the mortgage meltdown is that quirky loans with changing costs are to be avoided.

Today’s ARMs, however, are far less risky than many past adjustable-rate products. Here’s why: First, under Dodd-Frank pre-payment penalties are limited for “qualified mortgages” (QMs) such as FHA, VA and conforming loans. In practice, there are no prepayment penalties for such mortgages.

Second, under Dodd-Frank pre-payment penalties are banned for “non-qualified mortgages” (non-QMs).

Third, under Dodd-Frank “qualified mortgages”

Tips to help homebuyers get the best bargaining position

Q& A

ASK OUR BROKER

By Peter G. Miller

cannot have negative amortization or balloon payments.

Fourth, under Dodd-Frank borrowers must be qualified on the basis of the highest ARM payment they can expect to make during the first five years of the mortgage term and not the start rate.

The result of the Dodd-Frank rules is that ARMs today are far less risky than the toxic products allowed before the mortgage meltdown.

That said many people still want financial stability. While it is true that ARM rates can decline after start periods end, it is equally true that they can increase – and maybe increase at a time when borrowers have less income or have lost a job. The result is that while today’s ARMs are a very much better financial product when compared with adjustable mortgages marketed in the past, for reasons of risk they are simply not what most borrowers want.

GOOD NEIGHBORS MAKE GREAT LENDERS Umpqua’s loan officers are local experts equipped with an array of options for your purchase, refinance or new construction. Plus, we’ll stick with you every step of the way—because that’s what good neighbors do.

Susie DeVries

Travis Brewer

Piero Rodriguez

Home Lending Sales Manager NMLS 487442 CALL 360-230-2246 UmpquaBank.com/SDeVries

Home Loan Officer NMLS 55324 CALL 360-230-2248 UmpquaBank.com/TBrewer

Home Loan Officer NMLS 1172408 CALL 360-230-2241 UmpquaBnak.com/PRodriguez

Loan products subject to credit approval.

Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender

1535460

Contact your friendly Skagit Valley area loan officer today!

NMLS #401867

HLD16Q4.1125

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RE-Weekly.com

December 23, 2016

Smarter Homes Sell

Both consumers and real estate professionals show interest in smart home tech

T

he National Association of Realtors released a Smart Homes and Realtors report, which examined the growing array of smart home devices and their impact on the real estate market.

The report, which surveyed real estate agents across the country, found that only 15 percent of agents receive questions from their clients about smart homes. However, 42 percent of the agents surveyed stated an interest in attaining some type of smart home certification, which may indicated a growing confidence on the part of real estate professionals that smart home technologies will play an increasing

role in the market.

“More homeowners are adopting smart-home technology and that will likely impact buyers’ purchase decisions in the future. While consumer interest in this trend is still developing, realtors are becoming well-versed in successfully marketing smart homes and their features, such as devices and appliances,” says William E. Brown, an agent from Alamo, California, and president of the National Association of Realtors.

When it comes to smart home devices, 37 percent of the agents surveyed said that their clients found smart locks to be important. Twenty-

nine percent reported hearing a preference for smart lights, and 26 percent smart thermostats.

Independent of specific gadgets, the survey also asked about perceived benefits of smart home devices on the part of prospective buyers. Agents

reported that 80 percent believed that added home security is an important feature. About half stated that increased privacy was important to their clients, 38 percent state comfort, and 25 percent said that both energy and costs savings were important.

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 print and online with RE-Weekly.com.

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

CALL OR EMAIL TODAY! 360.416.2180 ads@skagitads.com

RE-Weekly.com December 23, 2016

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17714 KiNgFiShER cOVE LANE, Big LAKE

$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 Danya Wolf Carla Fischer of 3 decks!.

360-708-8294 360-982-0010

23786 KAMLOOp cT.

$150,000 Large lot in Nookachamp Hills Community. Beautiful country setting overlooks a private lake for you to enjoy. Less than 10 minute drive to the city of Mount Vernon.

All utilities are stubbed to the Yolanda Sakuma 360-421-0435 lot. $254,900 604 NORThERN AVE., SEdRO WOOLLEy

63 Willow Lane, Mount Vernon

$179,000

1802 Bakerview ct, Mount Vernon

$122,000

Merry Christmas!

5798 JENNiFER LANE, BOW

EaglEmont Attractive, large lot in beautiful Eaglemont Golf Course community, close to brand new 20,000+ SF clubhouse, Elva Hunter dining and full fitness facilities. 360-202-3086 Complete plans for a beautiful home on this lot are negotiable. MLS #475295

13813 STATE ROUTE 9, MOUNT VERNON (5 AcRES)

$239,000

$375,000 Large triple-wide manufactured home on 5 plus acres. Newer hardwood floors and carpeting.

Sweeping land views.

Garage with extra room.

G a t e d community for privacy and security.

Minutes to I-5. Suzanne Jenkins MLS #1025330 360-941-2983

3903 E. cOLLEgE WAy, MOUNT VERNON

$600,000 5 Bedroom older Williamsburg Style Colonial home on 3.78 developable acres with possibility to have 20 residential lots. Very level lot for easy development. Home is circa 1900’s.

Large bedrooms and dining room. Shop with

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!

Danya Wolf Shopping, schools, bus line and medical.

Zoned for possible in-home business. Plenty 360-708-8294 of parking, including for RV. Nicely fenced back yard with fruit tree and other trees. MLS #1008048

1804 BAKERViEW cOURT, EAgLEMONT

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

Charming home with lots of potential, in need of some elbow grease and imagination; 4 beds/1.5 baths; extra-large and roomy kitchen has loads of cupboards and dining area, lovely Carla Fischer brick fireplace, arched doorways, built ins; some original wood floors; 360-982-0100 sunroom; uniquely fenced yard.

MLS #1040913

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, Carla Fischer Celia Miller level, and with spectacular mountain view! New gravel 360-982-0010 360-391-6065 road is partially paved. Good access from Highway 9 for easy driving into property. I-5 minutes away. Watch for signage. MLS #1014931

underground electricity. Home to be sold as is.

Commuters schools,

John Hunter

360-202-3854

shopping,

medical, Skagit Valley College, I-5.

MLS #1045770

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

dream!

Close to everything;

SUZANNE JENKINS

360-941-2983

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

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