Real Estate Weekly, August 20, 2021

INSIDE

This Issue

PET PROJECT CONSIDER YOUR DOG, CAT, OR OTHER ANIMAL COMPANION BEFORE CHOOSING YOUR NEXT HOME PAGE 5 THE BIG PICTURE LOOK AT LIVING IN A NEW LOCATION PAGE 7 CLASSIFIEDS PAGE 7 AUG. 20-26, 2021

INSIDE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

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Pet project Consider your dog, cat, or other animal companion before choosing your next home ..................P5 Q&A Ask Our Broker.......................................................................P6

The Big Picture Look at Living in A New Location..........................................................P7 Classifieds............................................................................P7

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

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 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 publication.

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Skagit Publishing is not responsible for typographical or production errors or the accuracy of information provided by advertisers.

own the local real estate market expand your reach when you combine the power of our digital audience and premium print ads in the re weekly ask your multimedia account executive for details.

ContaCt: 360.424.3251 • ads@skagitads.Com 2

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August 20, 2021

STAT Real Estate Stat

1.4%

The percentage rise in existing-home sales on a seasonally adjusted annual rate from May to June, with no region showing a sales decline.

Source: National Association of Realtors

525 East College Way, Suite J

Mount Vernon, WA 98273

Tel. (360) 416-4902

www.npsar.com

FeAtureD hoMe FroM CoVer:

819 N 18thST, MouNt VerNoN

Skagit tradition realty LLC 3780 e. College Way Mount Vernon, WA 360-424-0300

Protecting the American Dream: Homeownership Must Remain a National Policy Priority Perhaps better than any other group, Realtors® recognize and understand how homeownership has the potential to change lives and enhance futures for people from every background and in every corner of this country.

Homeownership encourages people to build roots and invest in their neighborhoods. It is well documented that homeowners volunteer, serve on community boards and are even more likely to vote in local elections. What’s more, studies have shown that the children of homeowners perform better in school and go on to earn more money as adults.

www.skagittraditionrealty.com OPEN HOUSE SatUrDay, aUgUSt 21, 11aM-2PM

Across the U.S., real estate accounts for one-fifth of our Gross Domestic Product. That figure totals more than $3 trillion – and represents a key driver of our national economy.

Realtors® are more than agents and apps. We are community advocates who commit to a code of ethics and advocate for private property rights. In a transaction that is often the largest and most complex we will make in our lifetime, consumers want a trusted professional to guide them through this process. And there is no substitute for that.

Mission Statement: The Nor th Puget Sound Association of Realtor s advocates for Realtor s and their clients, and promotes the protection of property rights.

August 20, 2021

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$549,900

Patricia Box C: (360) 941-9186 BUYER’S AGENT

Danya Wolf 360-708-8294

Home on the hill, close to shopping, schools and medical. This home features 6 bedrooms and 2 baths with 2 additional bonus bedrooms in the garage (easily convert back to a 2-car garage). Plenty of parking, nice size yard with mature landscaping.

MLS# 1811049

119392-1

NORTH PUGET SOUND ASSOCIATION of REALTORS®

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

B

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!

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

August 20, 2021

a g s v o – h f

h i i s t b t w

Pet project

Consider your dog, cat, or other animal companion before choosing your next home

By Erik J. Martin ou’ve check-marked many boxes on the list in your search for a home: a well-built house, good neighborhood, quality schools, low crime, and convenient commute. But there’s one item you likely left off – How pet-friendly will the home be for Fido, Fluffy, or a future animal companion?

New research suggests that home shoppers are prioritizing their pets when hunting for residences. A recent study by Ally Home found that one in five Americans bring their pets along when they look at or tour homes, with 24% of women and

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August 20, 2021

15% of men participating in this practice. Millennials are more likely to value their pets’ influence on the home they choose, too. And overall, among the 1,000-plus respondents, 44% indicate they consider their pets’ needs before purchasing or renting a home.

“These statistics underscore how important a place our pets have in our lives. We want them to be as comfortable in a new home as us,” says Glenn Brunker, president of Charlotte, North Carolina-headquartered Ally Home. “We found it interesting that buyers are willing to make changes to a home

to better accommodate their pets, as well. For instance, 34% of baby boomers and 30% of Gen Xers reported having made changes of some sort to their homes because of their pets, while 24% of Gen Xers and 19% of baby boomers give their dogs, cats, or other animals a dedicated space inside their homes.”

Janice Costa, the Bethpage, New York-based president/founder of KB Designers Network, says these findings make perfect sense.

“For many people, pets serve as children, and people increasingly view their dogs, cats, and other companions

as part of the family,” she notes.

Dr. Terry Fossum, a veterinarian in Carefree, Arizona, can vouch for the importance of involving your pet in the homebuying process.

“Before putting an offer in on a condo, we brought our dog with us to check out the neighborhood to see if she would like it. Luckily, she loved it,” Fossum says.

Suburban and rural areas are often popular places for pet owners to purchase a home since there is more outdoor green space for pets.

“But fortunately, increasing numbers of dog parks offer urban homeowners a

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place to take their pets to enjoy fresh air. Many pet owners also seek homes with fenced-in yards so their pets can wander outside without a leash,” says Brunker, who recommends investigating the proximity to nearby veterinarians and groomers before choosing a property.

Costa, who owns a dog vacation business, Canine Camp Getaway, seconds Brunker’s sentiments about yards.

“For dogs, a large, open, fenced-in yard with space to run is desirable, especially for big dogs or families with multiple dogs,” she says.

“If you have one or more cats, rooms with multiple entrances would be desirable, as cats like to have multiple points of egress. Lots of bright, accessible windows with a view and a bow or bay window will also appeal to cats and their owners, as will hidden nooks and crannies.”

If you’ve got a long-haired dog or one that requires more care and grooming, prioritize a mudroom with a shower or bathing/grooming area in your next home.

“Also, consider that dogs and cats age far more quickly than humans. That means the upstairs bedroom may become difficult to access for a pet in the years to come, which is problematic for those who share their bedroom with a pet. For this reason, try to choose a home with a bedroom on the main floor if you can,” recommends Costa. “Likewise, hard flooring can be difficult for pets to navigate as they age and more dangerous if they fall when they are older.

Think about a home with softer flooring surfaces, such

as a cushioned designer vinyl, which has the added benefit of being waterproof, rather than ceramic tile.”

Another factor to ponder is noise.

“Does your dog bark when someone walks by? This could be a huge issue if you live in a condo or development with noise restrictions or an uptight homeowners association,” Fossum cautions. For that matter, look closely at the fine print in the covenants and bylaws if you are planning to purchase within an HOA community; many do not even allow pets or certain breeds.

Before committing to a new or next home, Beth Cherryholmes Miller, founder/CEO of Wagtown, Inc., in Centerville, Ohio, advises answering the following questions: Will I have easy access to 24/7 emergency vet care?

Are public transportation options available for me and my dog?

Does the neighborhood have infrastructure/parks that include off-leash play?

Where can I take my dog in public spaces?

Is it safe to let my cat roam outdoors?

What additional expenses can I expect to pay in my new home as a result of owning a pet?

“Ultimately, it comes down to a simple question: Is this home pet friendly?” says Miller. “Don’t think of your efforts as being selfish about what you want only for your pet; think of it as supporting and being part of elevating the value of companion animals and creating a better quality of life for you and your pet.”

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Q&A

Cashing out with a Home Refinance Question:

We want to refinance our home. Our property’s value has increased substantially during the past few years, and we would like to pull out $50,000 in equity. How do we know if we’re getting a good deal?

Answer

The Veterans Administration has developed a Net Tangible Benefit Test (NTB) for cash-out refinancing. It offers several standards that can be broadly used when looking at refinancing options, whether VA or not. Here are the main questions to ask: First, does the new financing create a lower monthly cost than the current loan? In the usual case, you want to reduce monthly expenses, but that is not always the case with refinancing. For instance, rates might go up if you switch from an adjustable-rate mortgage to a fixed-rate product, if the loan size increases, or if the loan term is reduced.

Second, for non-VA loans, if you refinance

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ASK OUR BROKER

By Peter G. Miller

can you get rid of mortgage insurance payments? The combination of a lower rate, a smaller monthly cost for principal and interest, and an end to mortgage insurance payments can mean big monthly savings.

Third, how does the new loan impact the borrower’s monthly residual income?

To protect veteran borrowers from taking on too much debt, the VA considers the money left over after various costs such as required monthly debt payments and housing costs. It looks at such factors as household size, location, and loan size. The amount that remains -- the residual income -- is available for general living expenses. If residual income goes down, there should be a strong refinancing benefit in exchange, such as a switch from adjustable to fixedrate financing or a shorter loan term.

The VA also has another interesting concept for cash-out refinancing called “fee recoupment.” The idea is that you should be able to recover all refinancing costs in three years or less.

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The VA explains that “the recoupment period of all fees, closing costs, expenses (other than taxes, escrow, insurance, and like assessments), and incurred costs must not exceed 36 months from the date of loan closing.”

The recoupment concept is especially important today because borrowers often see ads that feature really low mortgage rates in big type. However, to get that financing, borrowers have to pay big upfront fees. For instance, it may be alluring to refinance at 2.5%, but what if the loan requires 4 points? If you refinance $300,000 that’s $12,000 in upfront fees or an average of $333 a month over three years. Suddenly the deal looks very different and perhaps not alluring at all.

As always, protect your interests, shop around, and look at all costs and benefits.

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

August 20, 2021

Real Estate Weekly REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Land, Acreage, Lots Buildable Lots for Sale One Acre Lots in Forest Park Estates Water approval from DOE for drilled wells here.

Paved streets, underground power, no flood zone, easy to build.

Walking distance to the river from Rasar State Park.

Prices start at $120,000.

Contact Becky Elde, Windermere North Cascades 360-770-9427

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The Big Picture Look at Living in A New Location

By Marilyn Kennedy Melia

The AARP has been on a mission to “help people make informed decisions about or many, living better in retirement means their locations,” through the living somewhere new, development of a “Livability evidenced by the fact that Index,” notes Dr. Rodney 18 percent of all recent buyHarrell, vice president, AARP. ers were between 56 and 65, The index is a single-score, according to stats from the derived from how neighborNational Association of Real- hoods rate on seven categotors {NAR}. ries: housing, neighborhood, But while dreams of a golf transportation, environment, community, a better climate, health, engagement, and opor simply smaller, one-story portunity. living can be the original “The rating is on a 0 to 100 moving motivator, there are a scale, with 50 representing host of other, albeit less day- the midpoint – it’s hard to get dream-worth considerations. overall scores close to 100 be-

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August 20, 2021

cause the trade-offs that exist in every neighborhood. For example, you may have great parks and access to grocery stores, but housing costs may be high,” explains Harrell.

While the AARP membership is composed of Americans age 50 and older, Harrell stresses that the Livability Index was developed with needs of all populations, children, disabled, etc. The geographic freedom remote work provides has spurred more relocation among all households, and “the index can help them to understand those options

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better,” says Harrell.

Consumers can find a score by plugging in the name of a town, zip code or address at www.aarp.org/livabilityindex.

While the index is still far from a popular home shopping tool, it promises to become more of a factor since the NAR recently added it to its “Realtors Property Resource” or RPR web and mobile platform that agents use. The RPR already has lots of its own data and tools, like one to determine drive time.

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60102 StAtE roUtE 20, MArBLEMoUnt $777,000

118 E orAnGE AVE, BUrLinGton

Mondo is a well-established and well-loved Korean and American family restaurant at the foot of the Cascade Mountain Range. Locals and travelers make this part of their Hwy 20 and North Cascade National Park trip. Major arterial choice to Newhalem and continue on to Winthrop; or cross Skagit River bridge and continue up to Cascade Pass and hiking to Stehekin.

Restaurant is warm and inviting, with incredible fare.

Very spacious dining area. Some outside seating available. Small gift shop area.

Kitchen is beautifully remodeled.

MLS# 1757641 Danya Wolf

360-708-8294

17180 MeMoRial Hwy Mount veRnon $415,000

45249 neSika tRail #2d33, lake tyee

$59,500 41546 SoutH Skagit HigHway, Finney CReek

Great opportunity for a small business.

Includes commercial kitchen & other restaurant equipment. Great space out back for outdoor dining/drive-thru. There is parking and storage. It’s located just one door from one of the busiest corners in Burlington; E Orange Ave & Burlington Blvd. Upstairs there is 1BR/.75BA and den.

The possibilities are endless in this fast growing community.

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

360-982-0010 360-540-1552

Sherry Ruderman

360-540-1552

$80,000

$499,900

1203 E SEction St, Mt VErnon

$599,900

Contemporary 2 story home offers 7 bedrooms plus a bonus room! Open floor plan, spacious kitchen, 3.5 baths, recessed lighting and skylights. Spacious covered porch for relaxing before, after

6.98 acre tract zoned Rural Intermediate. Level acreage with great road access both from Memorial Highway and from Avon Allen Road. Stop light and curbs at the intersection. Special Use Permit potential. The Animal Hospital and an espresso stand is across the road to the west. 980 feet along Memorial Highway (SR-536); 620 feet along Avon Allen Road. Danya Wolf 360-708-8294 MLS# 1572330

Fantastic location in the foothills of the North Cascades! This great location and fantastic park model at Lake Tyee is ready for you. Enjoy hiking, fishing, and other amenities in the resort or cozy up with hot chocolate while you relax in your pj’s away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This is the perfect spot to get away.

Monthly dues $162 includes water, septic and garbage. Set up your appointment today.

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

Beautiful 1.71 acres of amazing recreational waterfront property.

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

Carla Fischer MLS# 1800415 360-982-0010

1564 H St Rd., Blaine

$1,200,000

2xxx uRBan avenue, Mount veRnon $600,000

44774 kaCHeSS tRail #2C4, lake tyee

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

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

Shown by appointment.

Danya Wolf 360-708-8294 MLS# 1568051

Prime commercial property with utilities in street, including P.U.D. water, Puget Sound Energy electricity; Cascade Natural Gas, fiber optics; cable; and sewer. Subject To survey and short plat. Property is located between Chicago Title Company easterly parking lot and Max Dale Restaurant’s south easterly parking area. Danya Wolf MLS# 1649968 360-708-8294

JoAnn Boudreau (360) 391-0746

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

Juanita Bunch 360-941-5530

Carla Fischer (360) 982-0010

wateRFRont

$25,000

This location is a gem. Grab your fishing pole and/or putters & golf balls because just a few feet away is Trail 1 which goes down to miniature golf and the lake. This is a perfect spot for your trailer. Roll right in and set up for a relaxing time and a chance to unwind from the city. Lake Tyee offers a piece of tranquility in the N Cascades and amenities like fishing, hiking trails, pools, hot tubs, tennis, basketball, etc. $162/mo with 210 days/yr usage. MLS# 1822187 Call Sherry with Carla Fischer Sherry Ruderman 360-982-0010 360-540-1552 any questions.

Elva Hunter (360) 202-3086

John Hunter (360) 202-3086

Suzanne Jenkins (360) 941-2983

360.424.0300

or instead of work. Located in a desirable neighborhood,

close

to

schools,

shopping, medical and easy commute to I-5.

MLS# 1810956

Danya Wolf

360-708-8294

44973 kaCHeSS tRail, d3-a4, lake tyee $46,000 44979 kaCHeSS tRail, d3-a6, lake tyee $74,000

Tucked away on Black Tail Loop at Lake Tyee, this very clean and well maintained travel trailer has room to sleep the family plus extra sleep space in the camper.

This comes with extras so come and check it out. It’s a perfect time to find the camp spot you’ve been wanting.

MLS# 1783219 Call Sherry Carla Fischer Sherry Ruderman 360-982-0010 360-540-1552 with any questions.

Russ Lanker (360) 708-1117

Kim Schlimmer (360) 661-7670

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

MLS# 1783232 Call Sherry with Carla Fischer Sherry Ruderman 360-982-0010 360-540-1552 any questions.

Brett Tacker (360) 840-7931

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

3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon

www.skagittraditionrealty.com 120487-1

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