Real Estate Weekly | March 2, 2012

RealEstate weekly

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE

MARCH 2-MARCH 8

TWENTY-TWELVE FREE

INSIDE

THIS ISSUE TRENDS: THE HOME: WHAT LOVE HAS TO DO WITH IT PAGE 3

THE GOLDILOCKS COMPLEX PAGE 4

BUILDERS EXPECT TO HEAR REQUESTS FOR GREEN FEATURES PAGE 5

REAL ESTATE AGENTS CAN HELP

SAVE BUYERS AND SELLERS MONEY

13576 BISQUET RIDGE LANE, BOW Windermere Real Estate 1030 E. College Way Mount Vernon 360.424.4901 • 800.849.7939

Elizabeth Miller www.ElizabethMiller.net Listing Agent (360)420-3607

$550,000

Unprecedented panoramic north valley views, stretching as far as the eye can see!

This breathtaking scenery encompasses the majestic North Cascades, Mt Baker, Padilla Bay, the San Juan Islands, including the Canadian Cascades!

Wonderful rambler perfectly positioned to take full advantage of this amazing view. Fantastic barn/shop offers tons of storage for all the toys, RV drive through and view office. Over 5 gorgeous level acres with expansive pasture area & natural pond.

FEATURED ARTICLE:

PAGE 6

DOWNSIZING A HOME: AN OPTION FOR SENIORS PAGE 7

Q&A

ASK OUR BROKER PAGE 7

AGENTS-HELPING WITH THE HUNT

AGENTS-HELPING WITH THE HUNT New homebuyers aren’t the only ones who need a helping hand. Renters can benefit from agents, too. Maybe you need to relocate for a job right away. Perhaps your current lease will expire soon and you hope to find a quieter building. Maybe you’re thinking (cont. on pg. 8)

PAGE 8

CLASSIFIEDS PAGE 10-11

YOUR KEY TO REAL ESTATE IN SKAGIT, SNOHOMISH, ISLAND AND WHATCOM COUNTIES goskagit.com/reweekly

A supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald and the Anacortes American

TABLE of CONTENTS

Real Estate Weekly content sponsored by:

Whidbey Island Bank

TRENDS: The Home: What Love Has to Do With It Pg. 3 The Goldilocks Complex Pg. 4 Builders expect to hear requests for green features Pg. 5 Real Estate Agents Can Help Save Buyers and Sellers Money Pg. 6 Downsizing a Home: an Option for Seniors Pg. 7 Q & A: Ask Our Broker Pg. 7 Agents - Helping with the Hunt Pg. 8 Classifieds Pg. 10-11

Pg.

6

To advertise in

RealEstate weekly

SKAGIT PUBLISHING

or other Skagit Publishing publications, Call 360.416.2180 or E-mail ads@skagitads.com View this publication online at www.goskagit.com/reweekly ©Skagit Publishing LLC 2012 | 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.

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.

Territory NW

Go to our website for a quick and easy way to search all listings!

320 S Burlington Blvd • Burlington www.SkagitValleyRealEstate.com (360) 755-9494 • (800) 775-0153

LAR GE CO RN ER

SKA GIT HIG HLA ND S

LOT

PRI CE RED UC ED

NE W

Burlington Mount Vernon

$142,300

Affordable 2 bedroom/1 3/4 baths. 1199 sq. ft. with woodstove. Beautiful hardwood flooring and updated kitchen. Corner lot with mature landscaping. Additional Storage. MLS#260435 Call Pete, 708-6500

PRI CE RED UC ED

Sedro-Woolley

$248,900

Like new one level Duplex. Private decks, RV hookup, tile shower, Hunter Douglas Blinds, hardwood floors, stainless appliances. Located on a nice quiet cul-de-sac. This is a great investment opportunity. MLS#322870 Call Mike, 540-1341

Wilma Louia Owner 661-1631

2

Dan Soria 348-6655

March 2, 2012

Charlie & Jeannie Boon 708-9645

Mount Vernon

$149,000

Well maintained 3 BR, 2 ½ bath, 2-story home in Skagit Highlands. 2 car attached garage. Great location, close to shopping and amenities. Community parks & walking trails. MLS#168546 Call Ivana, 770-3550

STU NN ING

Concrete

$379,950

Mike Welling 540-1341

$169,950

Solid 3 bedroom, 1 ¾ bath spacious rambler. Oak hardwood floors throughout. RV Parking, 2 car garage, and room for a shop. Newer gas furnace, hot water tank and roof. Covered patio. MLS#310488 Call Ron, (360) 333-1045

PRI CE RED UC ED

VIE W

Looking for the perfect cabin/resort getaway?

This 2700 sq. ft. home is perfect location. 289 ft of Private Beach Access, you can fish in your own backyard! 4 bd/3 ¾ baths, with a Master on each floor. Gazebo, hot tub, greenhouse, deck and RV Parking. MLS#222929 Call Michelle, 630-4423

Ron Van Pelt 333-1045

Burlington

Stanwood

$499,900

Over 3,500 sq.ft. on 1 acre lot. 4 bedrooms, 3 ½ baths, 2 bonus rooms. Hardwood and Tile Flooring. Heat pump, Security System. Fully finished 36’X 40’ insulated shop. Easy freeway access.

MLS#318362 Call Jim, 708-1681

Kirk Campbell 770-7470

Jim Stransky 708-1681

Michelle Mitzel 630-4423

1+ AC RE

LIS TIN G

$199,000

Burlington rambler near schools & shopping.

Easy I-5 access, bus route nearby. 3 bedroom, 1 ¼ bath, 1472 sq. ft. Double sided wood burning fireplace in living room. Large bonus room. Excellent investment, long term tenant currently paying $900 per month. MLS#324249 Call Wilma, 661-1631

Mount Vernon

$212,000

Features 1.29 acres, tile roof, with tons of natural light. Open floor plan with 2 bedroom and 2 baths.

Very natural setting with lots of trees surrounding this lake home. Attached one car garage with workshop and plenty of parking. Boating and hiking all in your front yard. MLS#299293 Call Amber, 969-4030 or Dan, 348-6655

“Highest Overall Satisfaction For Home Sellers and Home Buyers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms” RE/MAX received the highest numerical score among full service real estate firms for home sellers and home buyers in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Home Buyer/Seller StudySM . Study based on 3,861 total evaluations measuring 8 firms and measures opinions of individuals who bought a home between March 2010 and April 2011. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed March-May 2011. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com

Ivana Wood 770-3550

Debbie Allen 708-8780

Amber Soria 969-4030

Elizabeth Detillion 708-8800

Pete McDougal Broker 708-6500

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

trends

The Home: What Love Has to Do With It

2 surveys offer a look into the state of relationships and the home How much does a home affect your relationship? It depends on what you pay each month: rent or a mortgage.

According to a survey of 1,000 singles on behalf of real estate service Trulia, more than a third of women and 18 percent of men said they would rather date a homeowner than a renter. Only 2 percent of women and 3 percent said they’d prefer to date a renter.

A survey of 500 adult renters conducted on behalf of Rent.com found that 22 percent of renters would date someone because they liked their home, a number that rises to 32 percent for renters ages 18 to 24.

Attractiveness extends to the home, too, as 14 percent of respondents in the Rent.com survey said the appearance of a partner’s home is “really important.”

According to the Trulia survey, finding love does not equate to a rush

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to join households. Both sexes prefer to live alone, and 62 percent of the singles surveyed preferred to date someone that also lives alone and has no roommates.

Perhaps a good thing, as the Rent.com survey notes that nearly one in four (24 percent) of Americans have delayed a break-up because they were living with someone and didn’t want to look for a new place to live.

If the alternative is mom and dad’s house, that might be a good thing for their dating life.

While the number of young adults who have moved back in with their parents has skyrocketed in recent months due to economic hardships, less than 5 percent of the singles surveyed said they would date someone living in their parents’ home.

Real Estate Weekly

March 2, 2012

3

The Goldilocks Complex

Some homes are too big. Some are too little. Here’s how to determine the ‘just right’ square footage for your needs

• Work and play. Do you need an office, study or craft room?

• Bathrooms. Are you willing to share, or do certain family members need their own bathroom?

“The square footage you and your family require is a matter of personal preference,” says Angela Self, co-founder of the Smart Cookies money group “Location, location, location” may be the three most important rules of real in Vancouver, Canada. “We worked with a family who was contemplating estate. But when shopping for a home, size can matter at least as much as the downsizing, so we went over to their home and roped off the basement, dining address - which is why it’s essential to select a home that meets your spatial and room, one bathroom and part of the living room. We asked the family to live in square footage requirements. the smaller space for two weeks. They realized they didn’t miss the space, in fact Consider that the average interior size of a single-family home has grown they preferred the closeness.” from approximately 1,800 square feet in the years following World War II to about 2,300 square feet today, says Ron Throupe, assistant professor in the If you’re planning to downsize, keep in mind that two-bedroom homes Burns School of Real Estate and Construction Management at the University may be a more difficult sale later on, so it may be best to stick to a traditional three-bedroom home, says Lisa Johnson Sevajian, with of Denver. A recent survey of builders by the National Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Andover, Mass.

Association of Home Builders reveals, however, that the “The square footage you Additionally, consider your storage needs objectively and average new home floor plan is expected to decrease to prepare to part with belongings you no longer need or want roughly 2,150 square feet by 2015. and your family require if you do choose a smaller home.

According to data from the most recent U.S. Census, 34 is a matter of personal Many downsizers are baby boomers who no longer percent of new single-family homes completed in 2009 were preference.” no larger than 1,800 square feet, while 27 percent were seek large homes with five bedrooms and expansive yards, between 1,800 and 2,399 square feet. But while the average says Stephen Melman, director of economic services for the National Association of Home Builders, Washington square footage may be trending toward a more modest D.C. Boomers are more likely to want a well-designed home with a bedroom footprint, that doesn’t mean your next home will or should be smaller. equipped for hosting grandkids, boomerang children, aging parents or “It’s important that buyers move into homes that match their lifestyles,” caregivers.

Up-sizers, on the other hand, are typically young families who expect says Adam Iobst, broker/owner at A-Team Realty in Silver Spring, Md. “The to or have already grown out of their homes and now prefer a residence with answers to essential lifestyle questions will determine what factors they should be considering when home shopping. Do they cook at home often? Do they a combination of kitchen, family room and living room, walk-in closets in the entertain guests often? How many people will be living in their next home? Do master bedroom, and a well-designed laundry room. they have pets?”

Move-up purchasers, conversely, are often looking for a home with 500 to Other vital criteria to consider when it comes to spatial requirements 1,500 more square feet than they currently have, Iobst says. include: “If you’re single or just two people, probably a two- to three-bedroom home will do using one bedroom as a spare and the other as a study,” says • Family future-proofing. Will you have enough space to accommodate Greg Frost, founder of Frost Mortgage Lending Group in Albuquerque, N.M. future family members?

“Typically, 1,500 to 1,750 square feet is a good range for one or two people.”

• Expandability. Can you add a room or convert the basement?

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March 2, 2012

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Builders expect to hear requests for green features Due to demand, builders today are constantly learning about the new and advanced technologies for home construction. Owner-clients want to be assured of living in the healthiest, most durable, least wasteful house possible -- and therefore, building a home from the ground up is the best opportunity to get it right.

“In addition to fixtures and materials, be sure to ask for the most advanced construction methods,” says Todd Blyth at Nudura, a leading name in building system technology. “For example, more and more builders, on request, are discarding the traditional wood-framing method -- now seen as inefficient and wasteful -- in favour of concrete walls.”

Why concrete?

This advanced technology consists of pre-assembled, interlocking forms delivered to the construction site. The specialized panels consist of two, stay-in-place forms of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) connected with a hinged, folding web. The forms are stacked, reinforced, and then filled with concrete, creating a solid monolithic wall.

“The benefits are extensive,” Blyth explains. “Architects are inspired by new design possibilities; builders cut their construction time in half; and the homeowner (or commercial building owner) can feel satisfied for cutting back on an enormous amount of wood.”

As importantly, the quality of life continues long after construction is completed, he continued. As time goes on within “the most technologically advanced walls”, your energy bills could drop by as much as 70 percent.

“This type of concrete building envelope delivers twice the efficiency compared to stick frame walls -- and with no wood rot and mold it delivers none of the related toxicity. Concrete walls are up to three times more sound resistant; up to four times more fire resistant; nine times stronger; and far more resistant to thermal bridging where outside cold seeps in to cause uncomfortable cold spots, drafts, and mustiness.”

Floor and ceiling construction is now far advanced too. More information is available online at www.nudura.com.

STAT

OPEN HOUSES & SHOWCASES Mount Vernon

3 bdrm, 2 bath Skagit Highlands home featuring kitchen with pantry & breakfast bar, double garage in back (off alley) & washer and dryer hook-up in garage. Great community parks & playground areas. Seller willing to consider all offers.

MLS#309931

goskagit.com/reweekly

Danya Wolf 360-708-8294

$75,000

13.96 acre property located at the foothills the Cascades Mountain Range offers scenic mountain views. This property is within easy walking distance of the beautiful Sauk River & very near the community of Rockport. This is ideal for those who enjoy the outdoor activities. Richard Dickman MLS#294867 (360) 420-3155

360.424.0300 or 360.853.8888

3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon

www.skagittraditionrealty.com

OPEN HOUSE Sat 1-3

PEACEFUL HAVEN IN EAGLEMONT

389,900

$

2,311 sq. ft. Custom Rambler, Built 2008. Nat. Gas, F/A. 3 BD, 2 Full BA, Bonus Rm above gar. Jetted Soaking Tub. Travertine Tile Floor in Mstr BA w/Radiant Heat. Vaulted Ceilings, Great Rm w/Cust Floor-to-Ceiling NW Eldorado Stone Mt. Lodge Gas F/place. Kitchen/Mstr Bath w/Slab Granite Counters & Tile Backsplash, S/S Appls, Maple Cabinets, Instant Hot Water. Solid Plank Hickory Wd Flrs, French Doors, Whole House Water Filtration System. Two Car Garage w/Storage. EverGrain Comp Decking, Greenbelt behind house w/pond & nature trails, Private Mature Landscaping. CCR’s, Clubhouse, Golf Course.

FOR SALE BY OWNER - EAGLEMONT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB COMMUNITY 4822 Beaver Pond Drive S., Mount Vernon, WA • sunsetswans@comcast.net George & Kerry Feldman • 360-424-5775 Cell: 360-739-5842

GETTING SCHOOLED

89,244

$

$145,000 Rockport

Real Estate Weekly

Average listing price in Memphis, Tenn., home to the University of Memphis, making it the most affordable market in Coldwell Banker’s 2011 College Home Listing Report. The most expensive? Westwood/Los Angeles, Calif., home to UCLA, at $1,271,428 Source: Coldwell Banker

March 2, 2012

5

Real Estate Agents Can Help Save Buyers and Sellers Money

Buying a Home 1. Schedule a consultation to discuss what features and amenities a buyer is looking for in a home.

2. The agent may suggest buyers speak with a mortgage consultant to figure out their buying power and obtain a mortgage pre-approval letter.

3. The agent will then look up home listings in a particular price range and help the buyers to view the homes.

4. When buyers find a home they want to purchase, the real estate agent will help them come up with a fair market price and write up the

contract to present to the seller.

5. The agent will help the buyer negotiate on the final price with the seller.

6. In some states, the agent will accept a down-payment to place in trust or work with a real estate attorney on behalf of the buyer.

7. The agent may be present during a home inspection, which is recommended.

8. The agent will then schedule the home appraisal.

9. He or she will then confirm the closing and be present at closing with the buyer and the attorney, if necessary.

8. The agent will field calls from other agents and notify the seller 1. The real estate agent will meet when a viewing request has been with the sellers and evaluate the made. home and property.

9. Follow-up feedback can 2. He or she will do a market be offered, which may include analysis to figure out the best information the agent receives by price to list the house based on the making calls to people who viewed neighborhood and comparable the home or by tracking how many sales. potential buyers viewed the home 3. The agent may make listing. suggestions for repairs or 10. When an offer comes in, improvements that can help make the the agent will notify the sellers and home more attractive to buyers. advise him or her of the negotiation 4. The real estate agent may process. present a marketing plan that 11. The agent will be present indicates where the home will be during the home inspection, if the advertised. buyer requests one.

5. He or she will write up a listing 12. The agent will schedule with agreement and begin the process of the city or town to have a certificate marketing the home. of occupancy inspection conducted.

6. An open house for real estate 13.

The seller will be notified brokers may be scheduled, also by the agent when the buyer has a caravan of brokers from the obtained a mortgage commitment agents’ own real estate office and and made good faith deposits. surrounding affiliates.

14. The agent will likely be present 7. An open house for buyers will at the home closing with the real be scheduled. estate attorneys.

Selling a Home

Record-low interest rates and record-low housing prices are renewing interest in the floundering housing market for many people.

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

Whether an individual is a buyer or a seller, or doing both, his or her goal is to get the best financial deal on the home -- and often that means having a qualified real estate agent working in his or her corner.

Those entering the real estate realm may have misconceptions about what’s involved. Oftentimes, individuals think they can go it alone and save money on real estate commissions in the process. However, not having a knowledgeable agent to navigate the process can end up costing more money in the long run. An agent is not there just to open up houses for viewing or to simply put a for-

6

March 2, 2012

sale sign on the front lawn. Agents guide the seller or buyer through a complicated process of legalities and emotional hurdles. The agent also negotiates for the buyer and seller to help them make important financial decisions.

“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. “Advertising is important, but, once sellers have an offer, they need a strong negotiator to help them get the best price and terms. Buyers should also look for agents who have strong negotiating skills and neighborhood knowledge which will help them make the most of their purchasing power.”

Individuals can expect a real estate agent to help them navigate a process that, to first-time buyers or sellers, can prove intimidating.

Individuals buying or selling a home can certainly do it by themselves, but real estate agents have the knowledge and provide assistance through the myriad steps of the process, helping individuals to save time and money.

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Downsizing a Home: an Option for Seniors When a person comes to a certain age and the children move out and on with their own lives, a home may become too big for its occupants. At this point, residents may feel it’s time to downsize to a smaller home.

Downsizing can be exciting and challenging at the same time. Going through and packing belongings can be a trip down memory lane. But chances are a smaller space will mean that a person will have to part with a number of his or her belongings collected over time.

To make the process easier, first assess how much space there will be in the new home. Many times floor plans or room dimensions are available. First, measure large items, such as furniture, to be sure they will fit in the rooms. Then think about storage possibilities.

Next, make a running list of what items can be discarded and where those items will go. Some belongings can be donated to charity, while others may be given to family and friends. Many other things could end up in the trash or recycling bins. Knowing

TRIMMING THE ESCROW QUESTION: Our lender has sent us a note - a good one, surprisingly! They say our escrow account is too big, so they’re reducing our monthly mortgage payment plus they sent us a check for $165.

How is this possible?

ANSWER: If you purchased with less than 20 percent down you are required to put money into an “escrow” or trust account maintained by the lender. Part of your monthly payment goes to the escrow account, and that money is used to cover your property taxes and mortgage insurance costs.

goskagit.com/reweekly

Escrow payments are adjusted annually, and generally a lender can maintain an account with a

where things will go will make them easier to sort.

For those doing a major clean-out of the home, it could be efficient to hire a dumpster to be placed on-site. This way, larger bulk items can simply be tossed inside. Some municipalities restrict what can be placed in the regular trash or how much garbage can be collected, so this alleviates the stress of dealing with excess trash.

When actually beginning to get rid of things, start with the areas that receive the least amount of use.

Belongings stored in the attic or basement may be simply taking up space and hold less sentimental value. People can then work their way toward items that are used on a regular basis. It can be cathartic to clear out clutter and get ready to start anew.

Some people find they have to downsize because of financial reasons. In these cases, thinning out belongings can also be a way to earn a few extra bucks. Selling or auctioning off seldom used items may produce a little extra cash that can help finance moving expenses or even bills.

Q&A

balance that equals as much as 14 monthly payments at some point during the

Ask Our Broker

By Peter G. Miller

payment to cover the new cost.

Second, the money held

year. Because property taxes and insurance

in borrower escrow accounts

costs have gone down in most markets as a

produces no interest for

result of declining home values, it follows that

homeowners. If you buy with

the lender should be collecting less for escrow.

less than 20 percent down

In this case the lender made an adjustment and

you may want to consider directly paying your

sent a check for the overage, steps that were

property taxes and insurance. This sounds

both proper and appropriate.

attractive in theory, but you’re likely better off

Two points on this, though:

with monthly payments to the lender despite

First, imagine that property values in your

the lack of interest. Why? Property taxes

market once again rise. You should then expect

and insurance bills together can easily total

property taxes and insurance costs to increase,

thousands of dollars. Unpaid property taxes

and as a result you will receive a letter from

can lead to foreclosure even if you are current

your lender requiring either higher monthly

on the mortgage - and unpaid insurance bills

payments for the coming year or a lump-sum

are a violation of the mortgage

Real Estate Weekly

March 2, 2012

7

Agents Helping with the Hunt

New homebuyers aren’t the only ones who need a helping hand.

Renters can benefit from agents, too.

M

aybe you need to relocate for a job right away. Perhaps your current lease will expire soon and you hope to find a quieter building. Maybe you’re thinking of renting instead of buying if there’s a family-friendly place.

Whatever the reason, it can be a daunting task to find an appropriate rental.

Today, increasingly sophisticated technological tools can help, as well as professionals who are well-versed in a particular market.

But the help available can depend on where you’re looking and the type of place you’re looking to rent.

sometimes used.

This approach is probably most common in Manhattan, where agents know the tight market well, explains Gary Malin, president of Citi Habitats in New York.

In New York, the average fee for this help is about 15 percent of the first year’s rent, says Malin. An agent should be able to help you find listings as they pop up, and find places that match your priorities, he adds.

A possible downside is that an agent may show only inventory he has a representing relationship with, says Margette Getto of Apartment Guide, an apartment-search service.

How will you know if agents who specialize in apartment rentals are active in a Agent Assistance certain area? Simply entering In larger cities like New York and Boston, agents, who are paid by the renter, are cont. on pg. 9

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March 2, 2012

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

“apartment rental” and an area in an Internet search engine will lead to leasing agents’ ads. Given the cost to renters, agents tend to be in popular or pricey neighborhoods.

RENT Emerging Markets

Many realty firms may have handled home sales, but now some sellers have decided to rent out their home or condo rather than continue selling in this tough market, notes Jim Gramata, a broker with @Properties, Chicago.

Agents who also list homes for sale will then include the property as a rental in the multiple listing service, Gramata adds.

For rental shoppers, particularly those who may be interested in a single family home, asking a real estate agent for help might yield properties you can’t find on free sites, like Realtor.com, Gramata adds. And, the real estate agent is paid by the owner through the brokerage, not the renter, he says.

More rental shoppers start on the Web -- although printed ads and rental magazines are still actively read, says Bollinger.

Craigslist.org is a popular site, although not the only one for comprehensive listings. Simply entering terms like “one-bedroom apartment” and a locale into a search engine will usually yield many sites.

Apartment listings sites then offer click-throughs to sites run by individual apartment complexes, where you can find floor plans, explains Marcia Bollinger of ApartmentFinder.com.

Often sites link to Facebook, where renters can find information from current residents, Bollinger adds. Sites like Yelp.com also offer opinions by residents.

Don’t rely on online photos to select a rental; make a visit [ideally at different times of day], caution experts. Many real estate sites now offer apps that show you local listings based on your GPS location.

What Renters Need to Know

When you rent without an agent, ask as many questions as possible – about fees, move-in policies, living rules, etc., and read before signing the lease.

“It’s amazing how people don’t read the lease and don’t pay attention to the apartment staff when they review the lease during a walk-through and then are surprised by rules, like if you don’t give notice by a certain date your lease will automatically renew,” Gwyn warns.

NORTH PUGET SOUND ASSOCIATION of REALTORS® 525 East College Way, Suite J

Mount Vernon, WA 98273

Tel. (360) 416-4902

www.npsar.com

Take The Skagit Community Energy Challenge!

Now could be the time to

sell a new home and earn a slice of the real estate pie.

R

ecord-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 in Real Estate Weekly. weekly

Call 360.416.2180 today!

In print and online

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RealEstate

goskagit.com

ads@skagitads.com

What: The opportunity for you, as a homeowner, to make your home more energy efficient, while lowering utility costs and improving comfort. You will also learn how to bundle your energy efficiency efforts to conserve water, reduce waste and become a certified backyard wildlife habitat.

When: The Skagit Community Energy Challenge is a pilot program that will assess 80 homes in Skagit County before November of 2012. This assessment has a cost of $95, which is subsidized by federal grant funding, a savings in the current market that could be over $500 to the homeowner.

How: The Skagit Community Energy Challenge invites you to contact them at www.skagitcounty.net/SCEC or (360) 419-7607 to schedule your home energy assessment. The program helps you understand ways to improve your home and the value the of those improvements, and provide referral services to help you take next steps.

Mission Statement: The North Puget Sound Association of Realtors advocates for Realtors and their clients, provides services to help members prosper, and promotes the protection of property rights.

Real Estate Weekly

March 2, 2012

9

Sedro-Woolley 1 bdrm, $600 + $400 dep. Cute & convenient, no smoke. 856-6737

1 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts 2 x 1 ½ Town homes Covered-Assigned Parking Garages / Storage Avail.

Complete Appliance Pkgs Sport Courts / Playgrounds Pet Friendly Call Today! 360-856-4803 1 Bdrm S.W. $550 & up.

Laundry, manager on-site.

No dogs. (360) 856-6652 1ST MO. FREE! 1, 2 & 3 bdrm, MV, near college, onsite laundry, reserved parking. W/S/G pd. Qualify today!

Move in tomorrow! 428-3887 2 Bdrm MV, deck, W/S/G/ basic cable pd., clean, quiet, No smoke/pets. Refs. $750 + dep. 360-424-1695

1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals.

Piazza Realty Property 2 bdrm 1 ba nice quiet South Mgmt., Inc. 360-424-RENT (7368) www.prpmrentals.com MV area, W/S/G pd. W&D Incl. Gas heat. No smoke/pets.

1 bdrm house, downtown $25 app fee $725/mo. + sec MV, clean, no smoke/small dep. (360) 629-0430 pet ok. $650. 360-445-5308 Anac. corner view lot. Lg yd Anacortes 3 bdrm rambler, w/garden. Bdrm, living rm, exceptional and comfortable. kitchen/ bathroom. $600/mo.

Excellent bargain at $1150. + + util. 360-391-3763 dep. No smoke/pets. Lawn Country 2 bdrm, nice area. svc provided. 360-770-6800 $725 + dep. 360-424-3889 or 360-202-1175 (cell) Burl. very nice 2 story, 1550 sq. ft. home, with carpet, fr- MV 6 PLEX. 211 N. 21 st St. plc., granite countertops, 1 Large 1 bdrm, 1 ba, carport, car garage, applcs. incl., central laundry, $650/mo. $1,000 damage, $1100/mo. $400 dep. 360-424-6974 Contact Mike (360) 202-4700 after 5 p.m.

Nice 2 bdrm duplex, dishwasher, garage, large fenced Burl., 2 Bdrm, 1 Ba, gas yard. No smoke. W/G pd. heat, W/D hook-up, carport, $815. Refs & dep. 360-659$850 + utils. $600/damage. 6064 or 425-238-5821 No pets. 360-856-6878.

2 Bdrm, 315 W. Woodworth, S-W. $700 + dep. W/D hookups, no pets/smoking.

W/S/G pd. 360-755-1362

MV RAMBLER 3 bdrm, 2 ba, 2 car garage, large living/dining area with vaulted ceilings, gas heat, water & fireplace.

Newer carpet, paint & doors.

Burlington, upstairs 1 Bdrm, $1100/mo. + dep. 1026 Vera $525/mo., no pets/smoking, Ct. Sharon, 425-418-8843.

606 E. Orange #2. Call Mark at 708-2694.

Rent to own – MV 3 Bdrm, 2 ½ Ba, plus large bonus room, Concrete 1 Bdrm, $650/mo., large fenced yard with garden W/S/G incl., W/D hookups, space, $1,450 per mo.

1st & $650 dep. No smoking, www.skagitsolutions.com no pets. very quiet, super 360-202-2160 clean. 360-853-8100 Lrg. MV Hill, 2 bdrm, 1.5 ba., D/W, W/D, garage, no smoke/pets, $500 damage. $795/mo. 360-708-7752 NO HIDDEN FEES! Fairhaven Manor 757-2149 Norris Place 757-3060 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts.

Affordable. Section 8 okay.

10 2, 2012 10 March March 2, 2012

DAFFODIL COURT $800. Avail. March 1st.

W/S/G/basic cable pd. W/D. Call for details. 856-6652

RENTALS

Houses & Apartments.

See our listings at www.skagitrentals.com Remax Property Mgmt.

823 N. 4th, Mount Vernon 360-424-3198 S.W. 3 bdrm., 1 3/4 ba.

All applcs., no smoke/pets. $850/mo. (425)743-2850

MV 6-plex, 427 No. 21st, upstairs, 2 Bdrm, 1 Ba, deck, country kitchen, carport, central laundry, $695/mo. + $500 dep. 360-424-6974

RV spaces avail. Age 55 & older, great location, showers, washers & dryers avail.

Incl. cable TV, water, sewer & garbage. Part time & full time.

Call Gene 360-770-7563

REDUCED: Mobile Home in beautiful Park Village, 55+ park, Mount Vernon.

1248 sq. ft. 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba, open floor plan, large bedrooms, storage shed, newer roof and furnace. Many upgrades. $19,650. 360319-4274

ZONED COMMERCIAL/ MANUFACTURING

Excellent opportunity to own your own building. Extra high 6000+ s.f. building with clear span at 24' with 16' doors. Price reduced to $325,000. OWNER SAY'S SELL! MLS # 163367 Call Brown McMillen Real Estate for details.

(360) 757-6013

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, 12-2 711 Sharon Avenue Burlington WA

Beautiful, craftsman built 2 bed, 2 bath home. Handicap accessible.

MLS: #206206 $214,750 Dena Poling 360-708-2337 Preview Properties Skagit LLC

New Listing Mt Vernon rambler, 3br, 2ba, fam rm, fenced yd, shed and greenhouse. 2-car gar, and RV gar, min to I-5 & hospital.

Meg 425-481-2211 NW Ramblers

SOLD

New Mount Vernon Home 2281 S. 19th Street 2000 sq. ft. rambler on 10,000 sq. ft. lot Very quiet, secluded, S. Mount Vernon area 3 bdrm/den, 2 ½ baths Granite countertops, stainless appliances Open floor plan Master suite features soaking tub, double vanities, double shower Close to schools, shopping, easy I-5 access Nearing completion, call builder direct. $325,000 Brokers protected.

Legacy Home Builders Charlie Ash 360-770-7678 www.legacyhb.net

Log house on 5 acre mini farm, large shop, stalls, hay storage, close to horse trails, covered deck, sun porch. You must look at this one! Realtors welcome. $289,000. 360-826-6124.

ANAC. Nice mobile, 3 bdrm, 2 ba, yard, gas furnace storage shed $810 928-345-2086

2 UNEXPECTED LONG TERM SITES available for immediate occupancy. Nicest park in town. MV RV Park.

360-428-8787

REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Real Estate Weekly

March 2, 20112 11 March 2, 2012 11

Brown McMillen Real Estate 360.757.6013 1.800.869.7084 w w w. b r o w n m c m i l l e n . c o m

Evening Phone Calls Welcome 770-0787 661-1500 770-7083 421-5160 661-0145

Jeff Ingman 202-2859 Fritz Inman 661-0147 Dick Best 770-1491 Holly Brown-Hilts 661-5538 Mary Jo Reitsma 770-6013

Tod LeHecka Tim Reichert Terri Heyntsen

www.brownmcmillen.com

North Homes Realty Inc. 360.424.2100 • www.century21northhomes.com

MLS#323156 $250,000

$84,935

MLS#312123

• Updated rambler • Lg fenced yard • Newer floor coverings • Edge of town

MLS#324442

• Lg level lot • Beautiful views $219,000 MLS#322843 • Excellent location • One level home • 2200+ sq ft • Lg family room • Awesome views • Granite counters

$189,000

• Well maintained • Close to town • 2 bdrm Condo • What a deal!

SOLD

MLS#205974

• Water view • 2 bdrms, lg rec rm • Gated community • Private

$317,500

• Tri-level • Loaded with upgrades • Anacortes area • Large backyard

$450,000

MLS#201498

$134,000

MLS#220567

$229,950

MLS#229784

• Desirable area • 3 bdrms, 2.5 bths • Shy 1600 sf • Like new Anita Kohl 961-7795 Cleaver Sanders 941-3482 Dawn Hardman 540-0058 Duane Gish 770-9299 Dominic Pettruzzelli 333-5210 George Herner 840-3743

$180,000

MLS#208959

• Over 2000 sf • 1.24 acres • 30x40 shop • Large kitchen

REAL ESTATE CLASSES $129,900 MLS#256370 STARTING NOW! • Small town • 4 bedrooms CALL SCOTT 360-540-2121 • Lots to offer • Close to river

Jackie Lindeman 770-9080 Jared Storrs 853-6895 Jeff Dowrey 661-2161 Karl Morse 395-5405 Lorie Groth 425-422-7145 Margie Ernst 708-3198

512 TALBOTT ST., LAC $262,900 Custom Craftsman style rambler in the heart of La Conner on fee simple land. Features 2 bedrooms, den & great room concept with hardwoods, open vaulted ceilings & nice covered front porch. Call Lee Ann Dean at 421-3082 or Karine Anderson 700 N REED ST., #87, SDW $39,950 at 421-1189. #287388 This large 4 bedrooms, 2 bath double wide is very clean & 9318 PROSPECT ST., SDW $269,900 move-in ready. Many upgrades & improvements. One of the Well maintained 3 bedroom rambler with 1.75 baths, family nicest homes in Valley View. Close to shopping & all services. room with bar, gas heating & fireplace. Approx. 1/2 lot with Call Rita Ingram at 708-8338. #275029 detached heated shop & in-ground swimming pool. Call Linda 900 CARRIAGE CT, SDW $47,474 Eastman at 202-4075. #314822 Open, bright well maintained home with great floor plan, 3319 E. SECTION ST., MV $284,990 kitchen with dining area & island. All appliances stay. 1 car Spacious & sunny home with a great floor plan. Nice kitchen/ garage. Located in secure 55+ park with RV parking. Call Alice family room combo with a fireplace. Main floor master suite Hanson at 770-8791. #236863 plus a bonus room upstairs & 3 more bedrooms. Big 3-car 869 CARRIAGE CT, SDW $95,000 garage. Call Robin Luif 420-2026. #271177 Immaculate triple wide with 2 bedrooms, 1.75 baths, den, 21737 STERLING DR., SDW $339,900 vaulted ceiling. Kitchen with island & maple cabinets. 10x20 1-level home on 1 acre, 4 bedrooms, den, living & family insulated shop with workbench. 55+ community. Call Alice rooms, formal dining, 2 fireplaces, 3 baths. Court yard with hot Hanson at 770-8791. #230071 tub, tennis court, 2 car attached garage, detached shop & large 2819 CLUB CT., #117, MV $124,950 A very nice 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath condo. 1 car attached garage.

HOA dues cover exterior maintenance, water, sewer, garbage & cable. Community amenities include tennis & racquet ball courts & indoor pool. Quiet neighborhood with easy access for commuting. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #301505

outbuilding. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #266058

10943 MARY LN, BRL $348,000 Lovely 1 story home with 3 bedrooms, 1.75 baths & nearly 2100 SF, large master suite, kitchen with eating bar & pantry. 2 car garage, 2 storage sheds & heated 24x48 shop/garage. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #243332

215 S. 32nd PL, MV $189,000 Nice MV hilltop 3 bedroom rambler. Formal living & dining rooms, family room with gas insert & kitchen with eating island. Deck & fenced back yard. More photos & info. at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 4214446. #317914 15241 SUNSET LN, MV $219,900 One-level west MV home with many upgrades. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 1680 SF, .35 ac lot. Great home for USDA zero down loan program. More info. & photos at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call 14836 AVON ALLEN RD., MV $420,000 Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #315145 1501 MEADOW LARK LN, MV 219,950 Beautiful Turn-of-the-Century home with barn & granary, surrounded by the bountiful Skagit farmlands. Over 2900 sq.ft., Classic rambler on spacious, private lot! Slate entry & big 4 bedrooms, 1/5 baths on 1.2 acres. Call Elizabeth Miller at picture windows from the living room take in the patio & backyard. Fireplaces in family & living rooms. Call Robin Luif at 420-3607. #316903 420-2026. #229760 15002 CHANNEL LN, LAC $435,000 39541 BAKER LAKE RD., CNC $239,000 Waterfront home at a great price. 1-story home with wonderful floor plan with spacious rooms & spectacular water views.

A nice rambler with basement & 3 bedrooms, 1 bath all on Large level lot, 2 car garage. Close to LaConner. Call Sarah over 9 acres. Newer roof, windows, wiring & paint. Many outbuildings for your equipment. Close to lake & river fishing. Minton at 770-3076. #249568 Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #311226 17999 W. BIG LAKE BLVD., MV $449,000 18653 BLACKBERRY LN, MV $239,900 Adorable updated 2 bedroom home LIKE NEW, beautiful Enjoy beautiful views of Big Lake from a private covered deck hickory cabinets, fireplace, tankless hot water, 1.75 baths.

Front deck to enjoy gorgeous lake & mountain views. 100’ of or from the picture windows that surround this gorgeous no bank waterfront. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791 or Linda 1760 sq.ft. home. Open floor plan with vaulted ceilings. Fully Eastman at 202-4075. #317967 finished lower level. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #275165

STOP!

• 9 unit building • Fully rented • Updated • Centrally located

• All new appls • 2 BD • Great rental or 1st time buyer • Not a short sale

2610 E. SECTION ST., #106, MV $39,500 Gated serene retirement community with lovely 2 bedrooms, 2 bath home. Spacious floor plan with carport & storage shed plus nice patio & private park-like back yard. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #299022

8047 AVERY LANE, SDW $149,900 Nice 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1344 sq ft, 1998 manufactured home on level & cleared 1.1 acres. Rural area but close to amenities.

Photos at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #264108

333-1032 391-5587 391-0938

SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.

$184,500

Windermere Real Estate/ Skagit Valley 1030 East College Way • Mount Vernon (360) 424-4901 • 1-800-849-7939

235 W. Rio Vista Avenue, Burlington

PRIVACY +… 6.24 total w/possible BELMONT TERRACE… nice large 18TH FAIRWAY… beautifully upextra bldg site. Private w/pond, shop, 3 bdrm Rambler, large fenced lot dated Rambler, spacious living room out bldgs & 3 bdrm, 1 3/4 Bath home. on dead-end street in center of Mt. adjoins kitchen/dining area, gran$340,000. #267821 Vernon. Convenient to everything... ite counters, & skylights. 3Br, 1.5 baths, office & rec room. $297,500.

MT. VERNON CONDO… nice floor $199,500. #89952 unit on 11th St. Close to Hospital, SHARP OPEN CONDO… w/vaulted #316577 BEACH WATERceiling, 3 skylights, gas f/place & cov- DEWEY $83,000. #200244 VERY PRIVATE 20 ACRES… secluded ered deck. 2 Br, 2 Ba+ den w/french FRONT… home, boathouse, 100’ low bldg site, mostly level end of road doors. Spacious living/dining rm bank w/front. Newer deck & septic. open to kitchen w/granite. $205,000 Well blt home,vaulted wood ceiling, property. $179,000. #297233 lots of windows. 2 Br, 1.75 Ba +den. #308800 COMMUTER SPECIAL… 3 Br, 2.5 bath $980,000. #271985 home is on a corner lot, fully fenced BUSINESS FOR SALE… well estabback yard, just 5 minutesd to free- lished landscape supply business. EAGLEMONT-AFFORDABLE… 1900 Net income $108,000. this year. sf, 3 Br, one level home. Located on way. $184,000. #305726 Owner retiring. $129,500. #283797 a private lot with fenced in backyard.

COMFORTABLE MFG HOME… 2 Hot Tub, professionally landscaped. bdrms, 1.75 baths, dining area/eat- RIVERFRONT RECREATION! 2 acres of $335,000. #312210 ing bar. Room to garden, shop for camping paradise on Skagait River. projects, covered deck & carport. Well & septic in, bathrooms w/show- BAYVIEW LOT .1.25 ACRES… fabuer, 3 newer travel trailers. Call now. lous water views ready for your $118,000. #212211 dream home. $169,950. #136538 $89,000 #297118 MT VERNON HILL… cozy one level, CABIN… wondergood sized backyard,alley access, 76 ACRES… located just 15 miles WATERFRONT garden space. Updated, dble pane vi- from Mt Vernon. Secluded setting w/ ful low bank frontage w/exceptional nyl windows, 3 BR, 1.5 Ba. $159,950. new drilled well. $289,000. #221286 views of Skagit Bay in LaConner. $159,500. #322508 #277024 Phil Hurtig Ron Wortham Galen Kindred Jan Scally Shelah Inman

www.WindermereSkagit.com

Marlene Deasy 661-6720 Megan Daly 206-383-4407 Mike Newman 708-1419 Noli Goode 630-6527 Paula Margerum 220-0681 Rick Kiesser 770-1195

Sandi Hocking 708-1523 Sandi Riley 770-8670 Sharon Stokes 661-6164 Shaunna Harris 206-715-1623 Traci Cypher 708-9481 Veronica Lopez 420-0696

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Go to WindermereSkagit.com for Photos, Open Houses, and Maps for EVERY listing.

We give you all the details, on every listing, at windermereskagit.com!