Real Estate Weekly | March 30, 2012

RealEstate weekly RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE

MARCH 30-APRIL 5 TWENTY-TWELVE FREE

INSIDE

THIS ISSUE

TIPS

WHEN HIRING A LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

PAGE 3

DID YOU KNOW? PAGE 3

GETTING STARTED ON SPRING CLEANING PAGE 4-5

SELLING: HOME IMPROVEMENT 1220 E. SKAGIT STREET, MOUNT VERNON OPEN HOUSE ON SATURDAY, MARCH 31ST, 12-3PM Windermere Real Estate 1030 E. College Way Mount Vernon 360.424.4901 800.849.7939

Agent: www.CindySullivan.withwre.com Cindy Sullivan 360-941-9443

$214,900

Beautifully remodeled, charming Hillcrest home on sunny corner lot.

Renovated kitchen with custom cabinets and eating nook. Craftsman touches and re-finished wood floors, large picture windows; home has a vintage feel, yet open and airy. Roof, windows, plumbing, electrical, insulation and heating system all newer since 2004. Impeccably tended to, this home is filled with light, detail and Northwest style. Extra large, newer two car garage and fenced yard with garden space. Close to Hillcrest Park! MLS#318417.

FEATURED ARTICLE:

PAGE 6-7

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ROOFING MATERIALS PAGE 8

Q&A

RE-RE-REFINANCE PAGE 9

SELLING: HOME IMPROVEMENT It’s not just the overall average size of the new American homes that are shrinking – down to 2,377 square feet last year from 2,438 square feet the year before, according to the National Association of Home Builders – but the stuff that goes in it, too. (cont. on pg. 6)

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

Tips when hiring a landscape architect Did you know?

Pg. 3 Pg. 3

Getting started on spring cleaning

Pg. 4-5

SELLING: Home Improvement

Pg. 6-7

Pg.

The differences between roofing materials Pg. 8

8

Q & A: Ask Our Broker

Pg. 9

Classifieds

Pg. 10-11 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 responPRI sible for typographical or production CE errors or the accuracy of information RED UC provided by advertisers.

ED

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

NE W

Burlington

$139,000

Updated 3 bedroom rambler conveniently located near schools and shopping. Freshly painted indoors and out. New carpeting. Large fully fenced backyard with gardening shed. Very nicely landscaped. MLS #335337 Call Wilma, 661-1631

PRI CE RED UC ED

Mount Vernon

$210,000

Well cared for 2 story home. Desirable Blackburn Ridge area. 3 BR, 2 ½ baths, 1628 sq. ft. Gorgeous new mahogany deck. Newer int & ext paint, many new updates. On fully fenced lot. MLS #290421 Call Charlie, 708-1415, Jeannie, 708-9645

Wilma Louia Owner 661-1631

2

Jim Stransky 708-1681

March 30, 2012

PRI CE RED UC ED

LIS TIN G

Kirk Campbell 770-7470

Bellingham

$179,000

Gorgeous mountain view lot. Almost 9 acres and equipped with a tranquil pond. Private setting, a mini forest in your backyard. A guarantee for a beautiful sunrise. MLS #334874 Call Amber 360-969-4030 or Dan 360-348-6655

PRI CE RED UC ED

Mount Vernon

$275,000

Rare 9+ acre parcel of farmland. 1324 sq. ft. rambler; 3 bedrooms, 1 bath. Some hardwood floors.

Living room with wood fireplace insert. Pantry off kitchen. Large 2 bay shop. MLS #233412 Call Charlie, 708-1415, Jeannie, 708-9645

Dan Soria 348-6655

Charlie & Jeannie Boon 708-9645

FRE SHL YU PDA TED

Burlington

$ 179,500

This fantastic house is move-in ready on a large fenced lot. RV Parking, with possible MIL unit on lower floor. Beautifully remodeled including new roof, hot water tank and fireplace. Large 500+ sq. ft. deck for entertaining or relaxing. MLS #315835 Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

Burlington

$ 279,500

Beautiful Burlington Bayhill Rambler. Shy 1900 sq. ft., 3 BR, 2 Baths. Remodeled kitchen. Fully fenced shy ¼ acre lot. RV parking. MLS #197512 Call Charlie, 708-1415, Jeannie, 708-9645

Amber Soria 969-4030

Ron Van Pelt 333-1045

Elizabeth Detillion 708-8800

$185,000

This 3 bd/1.75 bath home sits on over 3.5 acres, mostly in pasture, bordering a lovely Creek. Newer roof, furnace and bath. Ready for your finishing touches. Propane, Heat, freestanding fireplace.

Newer detached garage/shop. 10 minutes from Sedro Woolley. MLS #322888 Call Debbie, 708-8780

PRI CE RED UC ED

PRI CE RED UC ED

Burlington

NE W

MIN I FA RM

Burlington

$279,900

Beautiful Burlington Bayhill rambler on shy ¼ acre lot. Shy 1800 sq ft, 3 br, 1 ¾ bath. Large kitchen w/ generous amounts of storage. Immaculately clean. MLS #223100 Call Charlie, 708-1415, Jeannie, 708-9645

Ivana Wood 770-3550

Mike Welling 540-1341

Burlington

LIS TIN G

$195,000

Home is nestled on 4.38 acres. 3 bd/2 ba 1,404 sq. ft home w/ open floor concept. Large level field w/mature trees lining a peaceful creek. Only 10 minutes from Burlington. So much space, let your imagination go wild. MLS # 333305 Call Amber, 969-4030 or Dan, 360-348-6655

NE W

Mount Vernon

LIS TIN G

$299,950

Bedrooms Galore! 6 Bedrooms and 3 baths downstairs. Nice Kitchen, living room and den. 1 bedroom, 1 bath apartment upstairs. Large lot, lots of parking. MLS #334299 Call Ivana, 770-3550

Debbie Allen 708-8780

Michelle Mitzel 630-4423

Pete McDougall Broker 708-6500

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Tips

Did you know?

Ecoscaping is a growing trend among homeowners who want to take care of their lawns and landscapes but want to do so in a way that’s environmentally friendly. Integrating both landscape architecture

when hiring a landscape architect

and spatial planning with environmental science, ecoscaping is meant to help homeowners create a sustainable and eco-friendly landscape design. It’s

A well-maintained landscape is important to many homeowners. In addition to adding to a home’s aesthetic appeal, a lush landscape can also help increase a home’s resale value. Oftentimes, homeowners without much experience tending to lawns and gardens hire a landscape architect to do the job for them.

First-time homeowners on the lookout for a landscape architect should consider the following tips to make the most of that process.

• Find a professional who will work with you. Though you might not plan to do any of the landscaping or gardening, that doesn’t mean you won’t have a vision of what you want the property to look like. A landscape architect should be receptive to your ideas and willing to work with your vision while keeping the channels of communication open throughout the project.

• Look for a professional with some experience. A landscape architect should be ready and willing to discuss his or her previous work experience. Ask to see photos of previous work or even local addresses where work was done so you can see the finished product in person. Landscape architects without extensive work histories aren’t necessarily unqualified, but homeowners should weigh the projects such architects have completed considerably.

• Discuss subcontractors. Some landscape architects will handle the project entirely on their own, while others might subcontract part of the project. Determine who will be performing the project and how the hiring of subcontractors might affect the cost of the project.

• Discuss fees and get a fee schedule. How the project will be paid for is an important thing to discuss when interviewing landscape architects. Each contractor might have a different fee structure, so you will want the one that’s best suited to you. If a series of payments will be made, get a fee schedule so there’s no confusion down the road.

• Get references. A professional landscape architect should have a list of references at the ready for potential customers. When contacting references, be sure to ask how satisfied they are with the finished product and how the project went with regards to scheduling and fees. When talking to a previous customer, also ask how amenable the landscape architect was to their ideas and how much he or she involved the homeowner in the project.

• Make sure the contractor is licensed. In many communities, landscape architects must be licensed. This information is public, so always verify if a landscape architect is licensed prior to making any final decisions or signing a contract.

goskagit.com/reweekly

natural to assume that ecoscaping includes looking for ways to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides, but there are many additional ways homeowners can embrace ecoscaping. This includes removing or refusing to plant invasive plants that are difficult to control because they are from different ecosystems and can threaten local wildlife and existing plants. Instead of choosing exotic plants that aren’t native to the area, choose native plants that are accustomed to the local climate. Another way to embrace ecoscaping is to develop a planting strategy wherein plants are planted in beneficial growing conditions that can eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers and excessive watering.

OPEN HOUSES & SHOWCASES Three Tracts $450,000 Total Price 1601 Waugh Rd., Mount Vernon

Real Estate Weekly

Two fourplex tracts for $150,000.00 each and one fiveplex tract for $175,000.00 or buy all three tracts for $450,000.00.

Building permit ready for thirteen (13) units or administrative, conditional use potential for professional/ medical offices. All utilities; includes off-site, fenced storm retention pond. Enjoy sunsets and Mount Baker view from this 37,800 square foot city tract of land. Cascade Natural Gas, Comcast Cable, Public Utility District Water, Frontier, Puget Sound Energy and City of Mount Vernon sewer, garbage and drainage district are all Sandy Everett Danya Wolf available. MLS # 29133170 360-202-3706

360.424.0300 or 360.853.8888

360-708-8294

3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon

www.skagittraditionrealty.com

March 30, 2012

3

Getting started on

spring cleaning For homeowners, spring cleaning is one of the annual rites of spring. The return of warmer weather presents the perfect opportunity for homeowners to open the windows, let some fresh air in and tidy up after a few months spent cooped up inside while the weather outside was frightful.

But now that spring has arrived, the time to clean up around the house has come. Homeowners about to start on their annual spring cleaning should consider the following before beginning.

Get the right tools

The right tools won’t necessarily be a hammer and

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March 30, 2012

nails, but cleaning products that can make spring cleaning more efficient. Rubber gloves, cleaning products (preferably natural products that are good for the environment) and enough garbage bags to discard a winter’s worth of clutter should all be on hand before you begin cleaning. If they’re not, you’ll likely need to make a trip to the store while cleaning, which can be timeconsuming and prolong the process.

Take some inventory

Many people have no problem buying new clothes, but they do find it hard to get rid of older items. Part of spring cleaning is tossing old items you no longer use,

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

and that includes clothing. Clothing can take up a significant amount of space, so take some inventory on your wardrobe and decide which items you want to keep and which ones you can afford to discard or even donate.

Address the windows

If the last several months have been especially cold or snowy, then you might not have looked out the windows in quite some time. Unfortunately, those windows might have accumulated quite the amount of dirt and grime while you were huddled inside. When washing the windows, do so on a cloudy day, as the sun can actually cause streaking. In addition, be mindful of what you’re using to wipe down the windows post-cleaning. Microfiber rags typically give windows a great shine without any streaking.

The blinds and drapes will also need to be addressed, as they have likely accumulated some dust over the last few months. Dust the valance and the frame, and wipe the blinds down with a damp cloth. You can also use your vacuum’s upholstery and brush attachments to further clean blinds and drapes.

outside to beat them and rid them of dust and any other particles the vacuum might have missed over the last few months.

Empty and clean the bookshelves

Bookshelves are one the biggest collectors of dust in many homes. Open the windows in the home and then remove books from the shelves. Once the books have been removed, dust the shelves and wipe them down with a damp cloth. And don’t forget to dust the books and reorganize titles before returning them to their newly cleaned shelves.

Spring cleaning is something all homeowners must do to keep their homes healthy and clean. Spring cleaning is annual event at many households, and a few simple strategies can make it go much more smoothly.

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

235 W. Rio Vista Avenue, Burlington

Tidy up the bed

You likely wash your bed linens regardless of the season. When spring cleaning, toss these linens into the washing machine and don’t forget to wash the mattress pads and bed skirting as well. While those items are in the wash, flip all the mattresses in your household.

Don’t forget the kitchen

The kitchen is not immune to clutter, and it’s especially easy for items to overstay their welcome in the refrigerator and the kitchen cabinets.

Look for old takeout containers in the refrigerator that have managed to stick around, and throw these out as well as any items that have passed their expiration dates. While items in the kitchen cabinets might not have an expiration date, it helps to remove them from the pantry and then dust and wipe down the shelves. When doing so, discard any items that no longer seem appetizing.

Beat the rugs

Evening Phone Calls Welcome

Area rugs have no doubt collected dirt and dust over the last several months. Though vacuuming these area rugs might be enough during the year, take advantage of the pleasant weather and take the rugs

goskagit.com/reweekly

BRAND NEW 2012…Legacy Home- COUNTRY CLUB RAMBLER..UPbuilders just completed beautiful 4 DATED... kitchen/bath,warm bright BR Rambler in great Mt. Vernon loca- colors thru-out, hardwood flrs, gas f/place. Bose sound system & tion. $325,000. #321277 COUNTRY ESTATE… On 2.38 acres more.$394,000. #313474 overlooking Padilla Bay. 3 Br, 3 Ba 83 ACRES… beautiful pasture land, home+ a separate Carriage House some wooded areas. 3 Br, 2 Ba Mfg w/studio apt up, 3 bays below.. home, 2 shops, 7 stall horse barn w/ hay loft. Great for cattle ranch or $629,000. #128481 COMFORTABLE MFG HOME.… 2 equestrian use. $599,000. #284837 bdrms, 1.75 baths, dining area/eat- HERE FISHY FISHY… fantastic acre ing bar. Room to garden, shop for plus pond sdtocked with fish on 15.7 projects, covered deck & carport. acres, Pleasant Zridge. $224,500. #290061 $118,000. #212211 GREAT OPPORTUNITY… level piece of 5 ACRES WITH SHOP… nice finland in the city, zoned multi-family, 3 ished apt. upstairs. Cleared pasture one story units can be built. Density surrounded by trees in Alger area. for 2 story units. Utilities available. $209,500. #324540 $315,000. #208598 NEW LISTING..BLUEBERRY FARM… PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP… Hilltop 68 acres “Certififed Organic” fully home,. open floor plan, hardwoods, irrigated & subterranean drainage vaulted ceiling, natural light. 3 Br & system $2,100,000. #329958 1.75 baths up & 1/2 down.Private backyard, $264,000. #292960 Holly Brown-Hilts 661-5538 Galen Kindred 770-7083 Shelah Inman 661-0145 Fritz Inman 661-0147 Jeff Ingman 202-2859

Real Estate Weekly

Tod LeHecka Mary Jo Reitsma Phil Hurtig Tim Reichert Jan Scally

333-1032 770-6013 770-0787 391-5587 421-5160

WATERFRONT CABIN… wonderful low bank frontage w/exceptional views of Skagit Bay in LaConner. $159,500. #322508 RARE BAYVIEW WATER VIEW LOT… 1.25 acres on Marihugh Rd. Build your dream home, fabulous sunsets. $169,850. #136538 NEAR CITY HALL… Large Office and Warehouse building in great location. Perfect place for your business. $399,500. #318151 BIRCH BAY… 3 level acres with public water & sewer with 2 BR cabin.

Zoned for up to 12 lots. Great investment. $205,000. #275743 BUSINESS FOR SALE… well established landscape supply business.

Net income $108,000. this year.

Owner retiring. $129,500. #283797 ON THE BORDER… between Whatcom & Skagit County, within a mile of freeway l find this 8.8 acres w/water & septic design. $219,500.#310662

Terri Heyntsen Dick Best Ron Wortham

391-0938 770-1491 661-1500

www.brownmcmillen.com

March 30, 2012

5

s el l i n g

Home Improvement It’s

not just the overall average size of the new American homes that are shrinking – down to 2,377 square feet last year from 2,438 square feet the year before, according to the National Association of Home Builders – but the stuff that goes in it, too.

Everybody knows there’s no perfect house. But with more people looking to sell than to buy, sellers need to go the

extra mile to make their home stand out.

“Every house today needs to be well prepared,” says Stafford Manion, broker-owner with Gladys Manion Inc. in suburban St. Louis.

“Sellers need to go much further than they used to.”

Anything untidy and poorly maintained sends up red flags that could derail sales, Manion adds.

Sellers are wise to tackle the biggest structural and aesthetic hindrances – anything from septic systems that haven’t been serviced to wall cracks that have settled horribly, says Jim Ettenson of J. Ettenson Realty in Rhinebeck, N.Y. Such problems should be addressed in listing and marketing materials for full disclosure, pros say. At the same time, home flaws sometimes can be offset by showcasing a home’s positive features, says Susan Stynes, an agent with Long and Foster in Midlothian, Va. “Don’t have a master bathroom, but have privacy on a cul-de-sac, two-car garage, or finished basement? Determine positives and play them up,” says Stynes, who has used charts and spreadsheets on flyers to put pros and potential cons in plain view.

But that’s still not enough. The most seasoned experts advise taking definitive action – (read: spending money) – since many homes won’t appraise properly or sell if they’re not well maintained, says broker Donna Mercier with Coldwell Banker in Lake Forest, Ill.

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March 30, 2012

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Before you open your door to potential buyers, it pays to take a few extra steps to make your home stand out Minor Projects for Major Impact Sellers looking to make a bit of pre-listing improvement should start with minor home flaws – they’ll involve less time and money, yet they can make a big difference in how well buyers perceive a home’s maintenance.

Manion says anything visible that’s dated or dirty – carpet, wallpaper, paint – should get refreshed.

Ettenson recently had a condo where the rooms had to be repainted, but the job was completed for just $2,500. “It made a huge difference,” he says.

Aging appliances fall into the same category.

Sellers might consider replacing the worst offender with a new but basic model, or offer a cash credit to buyers toward the purchase of a new appliance, says Manion.

Because storage is so sought after, sellers can play a trick with a strategically placed armoire, which can give the impression of storage in a room with less-than-ample closet space. Best of all, the sellers can take the new-purchase armoire along with them when they move, says designer Kimba Hills of Rumba Style in Santa Monica, Calif.

Ettenson puts decluttering and depersonalizing at the top of his list. For example: Take personal photos off walls so buyers aren’t distracted and can see a room and its proportions, and follow the rule of no more than three things on any surface.

Unattractive curb appeal also is high on Manion’s list of changes, with everything from painting a front door to weeding beds, pruning dead limbs and spreading fresh mulch.

Major Improvements Take a Plan More extensive changes require more careful assessment, since not expenses may be recouped.

Among the biggest issues: Dated roofs are at the top of Manion’s list, especially when they’re near the end of their life, which may include curling shingles. “In many areas, you can put on a new roof for $10,000,” says Manion, “and because it will come up in a building inspection it’s better to do it up front. Casual lookers also will notice the upgrade when driving by.

Standing water is another big deal because it can become mold, be more expensive to correct and is a huge deterrent to a sale. First, find out why it’s coming in, and be prepared to spend upwards of $10,000, says Mercier.

Cracks in the foundation are major but often can be easily fixed – sometimes for as little as $1,000 to $1,500, says Mercier.

goskagit.com/reweekly

Real Estate Weekly

March 30, 2012

7

The differences between roofing materials A roof is the primary defense a home has against the elements. It provides protection against wind, rain and snow, as well as shields the interior from the blazing heat. A compromised roof cannot do its job properly. There are many different roofing materials available these days -- each of which carries with it a certain length of usefulness.

Most roofs can last anywhere from 25 to 40 years, depending on the material composition.

Homeowners may know it’s time to replace a roof without even venturing out on the roof. Ceiling leaks or discoloration can indicate it’s time to replace a roof. Check for sagging ceiling material on the top floors of the home if there is no attic. Wet or darkened wood or rusty nails in the attic could be signs. Rafters may channel leaks away from their original source, so it’s best to do a thorough check anytime wetness or discoloration is evident anywhere in the home.

Once the decision to install a new roof is made, homeowners must decide between the different roofing materials.

Research is necessary to find a roof that will be the right price and meet the homeowner’s needs. Here are common roofing materials.

• Asphalt shingles: This is the type of roof most homeowners first think of when envisioning a roofing project.

The three-tab asphalt shingle is the most commonly used roofing material. The economic value it offers is why this roof is one of the most popular.

However, even though shingles are available in

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March 30, 2012

many different colors, homeowners seeking something unique may want to select a different roofing option.

• Architectural shingle: Similar to an asphalt shingle, the architectural shingle is made to be thicker and the layers are staggered to give the roof a more architectural look. These shingles are only slightly more expensive than asphalt shingles, which still makes them a good value.

• Wood shakes and shingles: Instead of asphalt, wood makes an ideal roofing material that’s also pleasing to the eye.

Over time wood will weather to different shades, which can help the home blend in with the environment.

Wood shakes can be expensive to install, and will require periodic cleaning to remove mildew or moss, and may need reoiling for preservation. There are also “fake” wood shingles that are made of composite materials that may offer the look of wood without the maintenance.

• Slate: This hard, stone material is very strong and sheds snow and ice very well, which is why it was often used on homes in the Northeast. However, the weight of slate, which requires a more

substantial roof structure, and the cost make it less popular among today’s homeowners.

• Metal: This material is an ideal choice for industrial applications or on agricultural or country homes where snow is frequent. A metal roof can range from relatively inexpensive galvanized steel to lofty copper that is pricey. A properly installed metal roof could last 50 years, which makes it a good value.

• Ceramic: Ceramic tile roofs may be among the most expensive due to the craftsmanship and the installation required for these heavy tiles, but their life expectancy is 60 to 80 years. Chances are you’ll only have to do this type of installation once in a lifetime. Many people are drawn to ceramic roofs because of their beauty. They are commonly found on Mediterranean-style homes in warm climates. Most tiles are waterproofed and hardfired so they won’t absorb moisture, also making them safe to use in northern climates.

In general, a roofing job is not a do-it-yourself undertaking. It will require an experienced and licensed contractor. A trusted roofing contractor can be found by exploring listings on the National Roofing Contractor Association Web site at www.nrca.net. Verify contractors prior to hire through organizations like the Better Business Bureau or on Angie’s List.

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

NORTH PUGET SOUND ASSOCIATION of REALTORS®

STAT

525 East College Way, Suite J

   

 

The number of foreclosures completed in 2011, down from 1.1million in 2010.

stated-income, no-documentation, 30-year loan in 2006. Times were good so I refinanced into a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage. Things were still going great and I refinanced into a 10year fixed. Then came the recession, and I’ve been struggling to make my $5,000 monthly

Stale bread and crackers, peanuts (raw, roasted, shelled — but not salted), and oatmeal provide a good bird nosh.

Robins, orioles, bluebirds, and cedar waxwings will eat cut up fruit, such as oranges, placed on a platform covered by a roof to keep out rodents.

Woodpeckers and nuthatches will lick peanut butter off tree bark.

Beef fat is a powerful nutrient for birds in winter. When temperatures drop below 50 degrees, ask your butcher for a hunk of beef suet, and hang it from a wire cage you easily can find at hardware stores and online. If you eat bacon, chill the grease and mix it with nuts and seeds, then hang it in a cage.

Avoid salty and highly processed food; it’s no better for the birds than it is for us.

Don’t waste money on shelled sunflower seeds. Birds are accustomed to cracking shells in the wild and will happily do it at your feeder.

Read more: http://www.houselogic.com

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.

Source: CoreLogic

I’m self-employed and got a

www.npsar.com

You’d be surprised how much bird food you already have in your pantry:

830,000 QUESTION:

Tel. (360) 416-4902

Pamper Your Backyard Birds For Free!

the road to recovery

re-re-refinance

Mount Vernon, WA 98273

loans with shorter terms. The overall interest cost for the loan is lower than with a 30-

Q&A

Ask Our Broker

By Peter G. Miller

year product. However, by

year loan – and also stop the

compacting the loan term the required monthly

prepayments if times get tough.

payments can get much larger. Example: A

(Note that the interest rates for

$200,000 mortgage at 4 percent costs $955

shorter term loan will be lower

per month for principal and interest over 30

than a 30-year mortgage, but

years. Over 10 years, the same loan requires a

payment flexibility trumps that

monthly payment of $2,025.

issue, in my view.)

Rather than a short-term loan, the better

Keep making payments to maintain your

option is to get a 30-year mortgage with the

credit. To refinance, try a local credit union or

right to prepay in whole or in part at any time

community bank. They may understand that

and without penalty. This is the arrangement

part of the reason your credit score is down is

hit during the recession, and I would like to

with FHA, VA and conventional mortgages.

because you’re making huge monthly mortgage

retire next year. What can I do?

With such loans only the basic 30-year

payments, a correctable problem. Also, look at

payment is required, however larger monthly

a loan modification again because some new

payments are allowed. This means you can

guidelines that recently have been announced

effectively create your own 15-year or 10-

may help you.

payment. I tried to refinance back to a 30-year term and I tried a loan modification and was turned down for both. My credit score took a

ANSWER: There are distinct financial advantages to

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Real Estate Weekly

March 30, 2012

9

S.W. Newer 2 bdrm, 1 ½ ba, W/D, 1 car garage, no pets. $850/mo. Call Mark at 360708-2694.

Move in Special. Big Lake waterview RV space. $300.

No dogs. (206) 778-8147

SW 1 bdrm, upstairs, $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 MV. Quiet, safe, 1 level, near hospital. Seniors welcome. S. 16th & Skagit St. $690. 360-652-6560.

1 Bdrm Sedro-Woolley $610.

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 4 bdrm, 2 ba, almost new dlx range, in nice neighborhood off College Way. 1889 sq. ft., gas heat, all applcs, 2 car garage, fenced yard, deck, fireplace. Avail 4/25. 1 yr lease. $1295/mo., 1st + $1000 dep. No pets/smoke.

Credit check. 360-820-3533

Spacious 2 bdrm Cambridge Apts., Burl., W/D, D/W, fireplace, on bus line, $725. Chuckanut Property Mgmt., (360) 733-3640.

STANWOOD 2 bdrm, view, garage incl., $800/mo. + utils.

360-941-1081

1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals.

Piazza Realty Property Mgmt., Inc. 360-424-RENT (7368) www.prpmrentals.com

MV Large 2 & 3 bdrm, three floor plans.

Private patio. W/S/G incl.

All appliances. Lrg garage.

Only: $925; $945; $995.

Call 206-409-9317

MV 3 bdrm, 2 ba, 2019 S. 18th. Gas furnace & fireplace, garage, deck, yard, W/D, $1075/mo. + $700 dep. No pets. 360-424-6974

MV duplex, 2 Bdrm, 1 Ba, all BIRDSVIEW NEW 3 bdrm, 2 applcs. incl. W&D. $875 + ba, custom, covered deck, all $500 damage. S/G pd. No applcs., $1185 + dep. 336- pets/smoke. 360-428-1721 1904 or 206-919-2368 S.W. 2 bdrm, 1 ba, single car garage, W/D hook-ups, no Rent to own – MV 3 Bdrm, 2 smoke/pets. $825/mo. Refs. ½ Ba, plus bonus room, large check. 360-424-9595 or 360kitchen, fireplace, 2 car 708-8664 garage, fenced & landscaped yard. $1,550 per mo. www.skagitsolutions.com 360-422-5708

Cute downtown studios, on bus line.

Great MV location $550.

ASK ABOUT OUR MOVE IN SPECIAL! 360-941-6986 LaVenture Village Apts. 2 bdrm currently avail. $730/mo. Income limits apply. Call 360-424-4622 NO HIDDEN FEES! Fairhaven Manor 757-2149 Norris Place 757-3060 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts.

Affordable. Section 8 okay.

LUXURY INTERIOR Mt. Baker View

10 30,30, 2012 10 March March 2012

Samish Island Great View Clean, quiet, waterfront 2 bdrm., 1 ba. $895 + deposit The Rent Lady 360-299-2353 www.rentlady.com

DAFFODIL COURT $800.

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

2 Bdrm apt. to share.

Mount Vernon Call 360-610-1417

Big Lake RV Resort: $400/mo. W/S pd. Boat launch, dock 360-422-6206

Spaces for rent in Mount Vernon for dog washing & beauty salon, 17926 SR536 Memorial Hwy, nearby Pamis Indian & American Restaurant. 360-202-3942.

Doublewide 2 bdrm, 1986, clean, good condition, Mount Vernon. $8250.

Terms. 206-920-1523

FSBO OPEN HOUSE THIS SAT & SUN PRICE REDUCED TO $229.000! OPEN 10-3PM THIS SAT & SUN MARCH 31 & APRIL 1. MUST SEE INSIDE THIS LOVEY REMODELED HOME & HUGE SHOP ON 0.81 ACRES OF FLAT AND DRY LAND IN BOW. 9530 AVON ALLEN ROAD. OFF COOK ROAD EXIT ON FREEWAY 360630-5105

Professional, medical, dental office space for lease or sale, 1500 sq. ft., near Island Hospital in Ancortes. (360) 293-6998

READY FOR BUSINESS! Prime Riverside Dr $319,000 Paved 21,780.00 square feet sales lot with lights,signs and ready to go on busy Riverside Dr. Over 2000 sq ft building with offices, shop, lobby area, bathroom, attic storage area. Large shop door with garage door opener. Upstairs office has view of entire sale lot. Land Use (550) RETAIL/AUTO/TIRES/MARIN ECRAFT/AIRCRAFT & ACCESS. Neighborhood (6R9) AUTO SALES/SERVICE FACILITIES. Reduced Price $319,000.

Contact: Terry Minor Email: terrycm@isomedia.com Phone: 360-428-5040 Website with photos : http://cmrvs.com/cmsale

Rent to own – MV 3 Bdrm, 2 ½ Ba, plus bonus room, large kitchen, fireplace, 2 car garage, fenced & landscaped yard. $1,550 per mo. www.skagitsolutions.com 360-422-5708

Roommate wanted. Share house in Burlington. Quiet, neat, verifiable income. Refs. $550/mo. Call Sandy between 6-9pm, 360-540-3449

MV room in large house w/bus stop, W/D, all utils. including cable & internet, $490/mo., $100/dep. 360424-6974

Rent to own or for sale by owner. Owner could possibly carry contract. 5 bdrm, 3 ba home, 3,000 sq. ft. in Sedro-Woolley, near schools. Large kitchen, master suite on main floor. $1450/mo. 360-661-5375

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

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

Real Estate Weekly

March30, 30,2012 20112 11 March 11

SANDI RILEY 770-8670

North Homes Realty Inc.

2631 CLUB COURT (NORTHRIDGE) MT. VERNON$159,500

O P E N S AT. 1 - 4

Sandi Riley 770-8670

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1601 FOREST DRIVE, MT. VERNON $269,000

OPEN HOUSE SUN. 1-4

OPEN SAT. & SUN 1-4

•ENJOY 55+/ADULT LIVING AT IT’S VERY BEST, WHY PAY RENT? *LG. 2 BEDROOM, 2 BA. (JETTED TUB) + FAMILY ROOM ADJOINING KITCHEN •SPACIOUS DINING/LIVING RM. W/BRICK FPL. (GAS), GAS HT.,GARAGE!

•2356 SQ. FT. REMODELED RAMBLER, QUIET ST. CLOSE TO MEDICAL/SHOPPING/SCHOOLS! •NEWER DETACHED OVERSIZE GARAGE/SHOP, HOT TUB, GAS HEAT, TANKLESS H/W HEATER. 3 BEDROOMS, 2 BA., HUGE FAMILY ROOM.

2518 STONEBRIDGE WAY, MT. VERNON $259,300

11365 WESTERN LANE, (CLEAR LAKE) SEDRO-WOOLLEY $234,500 38182 STATE ROUTE 20, (BIRDSVIEW) CONCRETE $384,500

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B Y AP P OI N T MEN T, EASY T O VI EW •HORSE ACREAGE W/5 FENCED & CROSS FENCED ACRES, ADJ. TO RIDING TRAILS, MTN. VIEWS! •CLOSE IN, VERY PRIVATE W/ SOLID 3 BD., 2 BA. MANUF. HOME, STABLE •LG. SHOP W/HIGH OVERHEAD DOORS

BY APPOINTMENT, EASY TO VIEW

•OUTSTANDING MOUNTAIN VIEWS SURROUND, W/5 ACRES OF PASTURE •CUSTOM BUILT HIGH-CEILINGED “RANCH STYLE” BEAUTY W/2678 SQ. FT. •3 BD., 2.5 BA., LARGE “GREAT ROOM”, GORGEOUS CHERRY KITCHEN, HUGE SHOP!

2610 E. SECTION ST. #52, (LITTLE MTN. ESTATES) MT. VERNON $48,900 2725 E. FIR ST. #43 (PARK VILLAGE) MT. VERNON $26,500 K 55

BY APPOINTMENT, EASY TO VIEW

•FINISHED GARAGE, NICE SHOP + STORAGE BLDG, BACK OF PARK PRIVACY •$20,000 PRICE REDUCTION, IMMACULATE 3BR/2BA, W/LG. KITCHEN & NOOK • ”TOP 5” 55+ PARK W/GATED PRIVACY, LG. CLUBHOUSE W/INDOOR POOL, ADJOINS GREENBELT

BY APPOINTMENT, EASY TO VIEW

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

OPEN HOUSES SAT & SUNDAY 1-4

$48,900

SUNDAY 1-4

$399,500

$354,900

MLS#335306 $109,500

• 55+ Park • L-Shape kitchen • Garage • Immaculate

SOLD

MLS#322721

• 50’ Saltwater frontage • Fabulous views • 3 bdrm home • Detached studio

• 23 acres • Lg shop w/loft • Covered porch • Fresh and painted

11452 Galbreath Rd, Burlington 2631 Club Ct #308, Mt Vernon For Details and directions, visit openhouse.com.

$77,500

MLS#302832

$644,500

MLS#232468

$217,900

MLS#336001

• Lake views • 11+ acres • Open gourmet kitchen • Over 3100 sf ranch beauty

MLS#334020 $259,300

MLS#278063

• Active adult living • Spacious 2 bdrm • 2 car garage • Immaculate

• Updated 4 bdrm • Sports court • New roof • Huge deck

$225,000

REAL ESTATE CLASSES STARTING NOW! • Riverfront retreat • Private 4+ acres CALL SCOTT 360-540-2121

MLS#335079 $248,500

• Detached shop • 4 bedrooms • Large deck • Many extras Anita Kohl 961-7795 Dawn Hardman 540-0058 Duane Gish 770-9299 Dominic Pettruzzelli 333-5210 George Herner 840-3743 Jackie Lindeman 770-9080

869 CARRIAGE CT, SDW $95,000 Immaculate triple wide with 2 bedrooms, 1.75 baths, den, vaulted ceiling. Kitchen with island & maple cabinets. 10x20 insulated shop with workbench. 55+ community. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #230071

61 ALGER CCC RD, SDW $239,900 Fabulous 2005 manufactured home on 5 acres. Large 2 car garage/shop & greenhouse. Great place to enjoy peace & quiet & watch wildlife. Call Tasha Zahlis at 391-5075. #138104

6751 WORLINE RD, BOW $269,000 1100 3RD ST., SDW $121,950 Great home on .75 acres located in Bow & out of the 100 yr Cute, affordable 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath home. Gas heat & fireflood plain! Many updates throughout including all new kitchplace. Greenhouse, storage shed & corner lot. Close to town. en. Shop, deck, patio, RV parking with full hook-ups. More Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #272362 photos at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger 1225-1227 E. FAIRHAVEN AVE., BRL $147,900 EACH at 421-4446. #282613 Offered as a duplex at $339,800 or individual Townhouse units 2417 CROSBY DR., MV $339,950 for $169,900. Each unit has 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, gas fireClassic 1969 custom home by “Master Builder” Len Holmgren. places, 2 car garages. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #171607 Gorgeous living/dining combo with rock fireplace & hardwood floors. Valley views. 5 bedrooms & 4,000+ SF. Call Robin Luif at 420-2026. #218717 325 ROSE CT., MV $389,900 Exquisite Tudor in Hill Top. 2651 sq.ft. of captivating charm, with 4 bedrooms & 2.5 baths on over 1/3 acre of blossoming landscape. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #311383

MLS#306633

• Huge family rm • Garage + shop

Jared Storrs 853-6895 Jeff Dowrey 661-2161 Karl Morse 395-5405 Lorie Groth 425-422-7145 Margie Ernst 708-3198 Marlene Deasy 661-6720

126 E. EVERGREEN ST., MV $157,000 Charming craftsman style home, formal dining room, kitchen with built-in cabinetry. 3 bedrooms, 1 bath & basement with shop area. Carport with storage room, RV parking with power outlets & alley access. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #333508 304 W. STATE ST., SDW $175,000 REDUCED!! Lovely updated 4 bedroom, 2 bath home, large eating kitchen & bar. Fully fenced, low maintenance yard.

Attached 2 car garage. Close to town. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #149139 1501 MEADOW LARK LN, MV $219,950 Classic rambler on spacious, private lot! Slate entry & big picture windows from the living room take in the patio & backyard. Fireplaces in family & living rooms. Call Robin Luif at 420-2026. #229760

• 2 bdrm condo • Centrally located • SS appls • Cherry finish cabinets

• 5.25 acres • Bonus Room • Small pond • Fruit trees

455 KLICKITAT, LAC $235,000 Wonderful LaConner home featuring views over the marina, spacious rooms, open floor plan, two fireplaces, attached garage and great amenities abound. Call Sarah Minton at 7703076. #29136416

•”LIKE NEW” CONDITION, GORGEOUS “DESIGNER DECOR” •QUIET AND VERY AFFORDABLE 55+ PARK LIVING, OPEN THRUOUT, A “BEAUTY”! •OAK “L-SHAPED” KITCHEN PLAN W/MANY UPGRADES •NICE COVERED DECK, LG. SHOP W/CERAMIC TILE ACCENTS, SUNNY BREAKFAST NOOK BUILDING, PARKLIKE BACK YD. W/GAS FPL. •2 BD., 2 BA., •SPACIOUS 2BR/2BA. HOME W/GAS HEAT, SINGLE GARAGE, OPEN PLAN KITCHEN/FAMILY ROOM/LIVING/DINING RM., 55+ LIVING AT IT’S VERY BEST! “GORGEOUS”!!

SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.

1601 Forest Dr. Mt Vernon

11453 BAYVIEW-EDISON RD., #23 MV $39,888 Fantastic 2008 Fleetwood in pristine condition with Padilla Bay views. Master with step-in-shower. Guest room, additional full bath. Large cedar deck. Open kitchen with all appliances. Call Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #220167

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2610 E. SECTION ST. #35, (LITTLE MTN. ESTATES) MT. VERNON $74,500

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•A MUST TO SEE INSIDE, YOU’LL APPRECIATE MANY UPGRADES/UPDATES THROUGHOUT! •OPEN PLAN W/3 BEDROOMS, NICE OFFICE/DEN, 1.5 BA., NEW “TREX” DECK,FENCED YD.*NEWER “TRIPLE-PANE” WINDOWS.

•55+/ADULT COMMUNITY CLOSE TO MEDICAL/SHOPPING, QUIET AREA W/TRAILS, CLUBHOUSE, R.V. PARKING •”STAND ALONE” RANCH-STYLE CONDO W/MAX. PRIVACY, BACK OF CUL-DE-SAC,COV. PATIO •2 HUGE BD., 2 BA.

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

Anita Kohl 961-7795

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GAR DEAU TLTP /R5I 5C+E !

11452 GALBREATH ROAD, BURLINGTON $184,500

www.WindermereSkagit.com

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

16663 BEAVER MARSH RD., MV $399,950 Updated home offering views of Mt. Baker & surrounding farm land. 2.7 fenced acres, barn, 4 bay garage & shop. Hot tub & in-ground, glass enclosed swimming pool. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #166950 22578 S.R. 534, CONWAY $409,000 One of a kind home on 6.2 acres. 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths plus large home office. House sits back from Hwy for privacy. 2 car garage. 18X36 in-ground swimming pool. Call Traci Gilbertson at 333-3479. #213565 14363 ROADRUNNER LN, BRL $512,000 4 Bedroom home in Bay View on just shy 1 acre. 3,100+ SF, formal dining, office, bonus room, great room & open floor plan. Butler’s pantry, walk-in pantry, lg. island with granite counters & eating bar. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #307721

1231 S. 10TH ST., MV $619,000 Completely restored 1929 home on nearly one acre with expansive views of the Skagit River, tulip fields & beyond.

Updated kitchen with cherry cabinets & granite counters. Call 101 N. 30TH ST, MV $229,900 Jim Glackin at 428-2828. #319380 $915,000 Large 4 bedroom Homestead home built in 2002. New interior 1045 BLACKBERRY LN., CAMANO ISLAND paint & nearly new carpeting, 3 living areas, main floor master 2430 SF waterfront home. Large lot located at dead end with with separate entrance, fenced back yard with patio & beauti- outstanding views of the Olympics, Mt. Baker & Sunsets. 70’ of ful landscaping, Pergo flooring & much more. Call Jim Glackin waterfront. New metal roof, trex decking. Call Traci Gilbertson at 428-2828. #288360 at 333-3479. #164059

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