Real Estate Weekly | May 25, 2012

RealEstate weekly RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE

MAY 25-MAY 31

TWENTY-TWELVE FREE

INSIDE

THIS ISSUE

TRENDS GREEN BUILDING: WHAT’S NEXT? PAGE 3

THE CASE FOR CHOOSING NATIVE PLANTS PAGE 4-5

HOME HEALTH WHAT BOOMERS WANT PAGE 6

BUYING 3688 BIRCH WAY, ANACORTES John L. Scott Real Estate 3201 Commercial Ave. Anacortes, WA 98221

Broker: Mel Strickland (206)948-4392

300 East College Way Mount Vernon, WA 98273 (360) 428-4111

$949,000

QUALITY BUILT HOME IN SUNSET WEST Sophisticated elegance with stunning views of the islands. Incredible architectural design in this 4055 sq.ft. home. View windows are 10’ wide and 6’ tall. Beautiful extensive millwork, radiant floor heat throughout. Features: vaulted ceilings, built-in vac, fireplace in Master, French doors, skylights and security system. 4-car garage is 14’+ tall, with an adjacent RV/boat garage that is 16’ tall. Not to mention the AWESOME VIEWS! MLS#313575 www.johnlscott.com/19776

THE STEPS TO AFFORDABILITY PAGE 7

CLEAN HOUSE NATURALLY & AVOID TOXIC CLEANSERS PAGE 8

Q&A

FEATURED ARTICLE:

ASK OUR BROKER

THE CASE FOR CHOOSING NATIVE PLANTS One of the best ways to improve a home’s resale value is by improving the landscaping. Increasing a property’s curb appeal can be done in many ways, but a well-pruned lawn and garden gives buyers the impression that the sellers truly took the time to (cont. on pg. 4)

PAGE 9

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

Real Estate Weekly content sponsored by:

Whidbey Island Bank

TABLE of CONTENTS TRENDS - Green Building: What’s Next?

Pg. 3

The case for choosing native plants

Pg. 4-5

HOME HEALTH - What Boomers Want

Pg. 6

BUYING - The Steps to Affordability

Pg. 7

Clean House Naturally & Avoid Toxic Cleansers

Pg. 8

Q & A: Ask Our Broker

Pg. 9

Classifieds

Pg. 10-11

Pg.

8

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,

Mount Vernon - College Way and Urban Ave. Burlington - Burlington Blvd & E. George Hopper Rd. Anacortes - 2202 Commercial Ave. Sedro-Woolley - 339 Ferry Street

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

PRI CE RED UC ED

Burlington

$109,900

Solid rambler on large lot and great location. New vinyl windows and partially finished basement.

4 bedrooms and 1 bath. A large detached shop/ garage. Hardwood floors and a great country kitchen. MLS #281231 Call Pete, 708-6500

Sedro-Woolley

$343,000

Desirable open concept living on 1.38 acres. Main floor master & bedrooms. Large finished daylight basement w/ kitchenette & 3/4 bath. Sky lit kitchen includes pantry. Spacious office off living room. Vaulted ceilings & surround sound. 3-car garage w/ground to build shop. MLS #195914 Call Ivana, 770-3550

Wilma Louia Owner 661-1631

2

Ron Van Pelt 333-1045

May 25, 2012

NE W

Mount Vernon

$ 153,450

Large 5 Bd/2.5 baths with 2,682 sq. feet. Located just outside MV city limits. Large lot with territorial views of the Skagit Farmlands. Come and check it out today! MLS #358392 Call Mike, 540-1341

Lyman

$380,000

Home on acreage w/2 shops. Gorgeous 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home on 4+ acres w/2 outbuildings. Custom built in 1994 w/ Victorian touches. Huge deck w/ gazebo. Fenced pasture for animals. Over 2100 sq.ft. Must See! Only 25 minutes from I-5. MLS #338877 Call Debbie, 708-8780

Elizabeth Detillion 708-8800

Ivana Wood 770-3550

NE W

LIS TIN G

Sedro-Woolley

$179,000

3 bd/2 ba 1893 sq. foot home. Excellent condition.

Quiet neighborhood close to waterfront park and ball fields. Open floor plan w/large living room and formal dining room. Small outbuilding for extra storage. MLS #357724 Call Wilma, 661-1631

Conway

$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

Mike Welling 540-1341

NE W

LIS TIN G

Michelle Mitzel 630-4423

Mount Vernon

$ 189,950

Beautiful Craftsman home in old town MV is better than new! Fantastic updates. Fenced yard, patio and attached garage. Great walkablity to schools, bus line or downtown. This bright sunny floor plan is perfect for entertaining or relaxing!

MLS #348013 Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

La Conner

LIS TIN G

$249,900

Quality custom home features open floor plan w/ quality gourmet kitchen. Large master suite w/ jetted tub and shower. All high-end stainless kitchen appliances. Low maintenance landscaped yard and private patio. Shelter Bay amenities included. MLS #357745 Call Wilma, 661-1631

“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

Jim Stransky 708-1681

Debbie Allen 708-8780

Charlie & Jeannie Boon 708-9645

Pete McDougall Broker 708-6500

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Trends

Green Building: What’s Next?

The latest repor t on the residential market shows greater emphasis on green features by both consumers and constr uction pros alike They’re of higher quality, and they save consumers money.

Those are the two key factors contributing to the green-home market growth, according to the latest “SmartMarket Report” from McGraw-Hill Construction, released at the recent National Association of Home Builders’ National Green Building Conference in Nashville, Tenn., held April 29 to May 1.

The report, “New and Remodeled Green Homes: Transforming the Residential Market,” estimates that green homes accounted for 17 percent (or $17 billion) of the construction market in 2011. Those numbers are expected to rise to anywhere from 29 percent to 38 percent by 2016, with a potential opportunity of $87 billion to $114 billion, based on the five-year forecast for overall construction.

Factors driving the green-home market growth include: • Higher quality for both new-home builders and remodelers. Ninety percent

of those who build green homes for at least 60 percent of their business regard higher quality as an important factor for building green, compared to 72 percent of overall builders.

• Customers are strongly value-driven. About two-thirds of builders and remodelers say customers request green homes or remodeling projects to lower their energy use or save money, more than double any other factor.

The shift toward green also is resulting in key practices and technologies taking over the residential marketplace.

• More than 80 percent of builders and remodelers report that energy efficiency is making today’s home greener compared to two years ago.

Increasing energy efficiency is the top green practice used by nearly all builders and remodelers.

• Indoor air quality is growing in importance, with 95 percent of high-volume green builders reporting that they include features that impact air quality.

• More than half of construction pros also consider durable materials one of the most important features in today’s home – another key reason green homes and remodeling projects are considered higher quality.

SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.

CENTURY 21

North Homes Realty Inc.

NORTH HOMES REALTY INC.

360.424.2100 • www.century21northhomes.com $34,900

MLS#353289 $39,950

• 55+ park living • Family room • Affordable and quiet • Like new inside & out

FOR BUYERS & SELLERS! WHO QUALIFIES AS A HERO?

Anyone can be a Hero! Our initial heroes have been firefighters and public safety officers. However, there are many Heroes in our communities: health care professionals, military personnel, educators, and educational support staff, youth workers, pastors and more.

Tell us what you do for your community. When you are buying or selling a home, let us say Thank You for all you do!

HOW MUCH WILL I ACTUALLY SAVE? The savings will depend on the final selling or buying price of your home. Homes for Heroes Affiliates have agreed to the following rebates & discounts: •Discounted Lender fees on Purchases or Refinances with HFH preferred Lender •25% of the agent’s gross commission •$100 off a home inspection •50% off title insurance loan discounts

MLS#357193

• Shy acre • 2 bay shop w/office • Fenced storage yard • Bring your small business

SANDI RILEY Realtor®

$215,000

360.770.8670 $274,500

KEVIN JOHNSON Home Inspector

425.870.0818

Kevin@NorthSoundHomeInspectors.com

MLS#359350

• Prime historical home MLS# 358493 • Private yard/patio • Double garage $224,000 • Home on 2 lots • Enclosed hot tub • Den/4th bdrm nd • 2 lot buildable • 1500 sq ft home $217,900 $229,000 MLS#277466 • 4 bedrooms, 2 bths • 3+ bedrooms • Gourmet kitchen • Bonus sports court • RV parking • Formal dining • Bonus room $450,000 MLS#201498 • Huge deck off dining rm • 9 unit building • Fully rented • Updated • Centrally located

SOLD

PRIME LENDING

$209,500

MLS#301356

• 5 acre Ranchette • Huge 3 bay shop • 2 stall horse barn • Mtn view settings

www.HomesForHeroes.com • 866-443-7637

$294,500

MLS#302054 $384,500

MLS#296437

• Commercial Zoning • Lots of parking • 5 Mtn view acres • Huge shop • Approx. 1/3 acre • 2 bdrm 1.5 bth • 2678 sq ft • Loaded with extras

RIC SHALLOW

Mortgage Loan Officer

360.631.1072 rshallow@primelending.com

goskagit.com/reweekly

MLS#358386

• Covered deck w/hot tub • Shop • Large city lot • Close to all amenities

Sandi.Riley@century21.com

Anita Kohl 961-7795 Dawn Hardman 540-0058 Duane Gish 770-9299 Dominic Pettruzzelli 333-5210 George Herner 840-3743 Jackie Lindeman 770-9080

Real Estate Weekly

Jared Storrs 853-6895 Jeff Dowrey 661-2161 Karl Morse 395-5405 Lorie Groth 425-422-7145 Margie Ernst 708-3198 Mark Yonkovich 206-914-8061

REAL ESTATE CLASSES STARTING NOW! CALL SCOTT 360-540-2121

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

May 25, 2012

3

Maidenhair Fern Adiantum aleuticum

One of the best ways to improve a home’s resale value is by improving the landscaping. Increasing a property’s curb appeal can be done in many ways, but a well-pruned lawn and garden gives buyers the impression that the

The case for choosing native plants

sellers truly took the time to maintain the home and the surrounding property.

Cascade Penstemon Penstemon serrulatus

Unfortunately, many homeowners choose exotic plants when designing their landscape.

Though these plants can be appealing and make a property stand out, if the plants are not native to the region, they could be doing more harm than good. Instead of upgrading your property with exotic plants from a far away land, consider the following benefits of choosing native plants.

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May 25, 2012

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Douglas fir Pseudotsuga menziesii

• Native plants benefit local wildlife. The native plants and the native wildlife spent years and years evolving together, with each doing their part to ensure the other’s survival. But as development continued, local wildlife suffered because of lost food sources. The local wildlife needs local, native plants to survive, so choosing these plants instead of exotic plants can help ensure the survival of wildlife that helps keep the ecosystem in check.

• Native plants require less work. Some prospective home buyers might find a

Woolly Sunflower Eriophyllum lanatum

Hairy Honeysuckle Lonicera hispidula

yard filled with exotic plants to be visually stunning, but they might also see a good deal of work to maintain those plants.

Many exotic plants require significant work on a homeowner’s part to survive, while native plants have already adapted to the local climate and will require much less care. This is often attractive to current and future homeowners alike.

• Native plants might be a better investment. A native plant has evolved over the years to survive in its given area. Local insect populations and fungal infections

might be able to destroy an exotic plant, but a native plant has grown resistant to such problems and likely has the ability to fight such infestations or infections on its own. An exotic plant might require costly pesticides and considerable attention from homeowners to survive such problems.

Though homeowners might find exotic plants help their home stand out from their neighbors’, it’s important that homeowners recognize the environmental benefits of choosing local plants before making any decisions.

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

OPEN HOUSE... SAT 5/26, 12Pm-3Pm. 83 ACRES... beautiful pasture land, GREAT BURlINGTON lOCATION...

122 N. Waugh Rd. Mount Vernon. some wooded areas. 3 BR, 2 Ba Mfg Spacious 3 Br + den. Just 8 yrs old, 3BR, 2.25 Ba rambler, Lots of privacy, home, 2 shops, 7 stall horse barn near new condition. Lg fully fenced loft. Great for cattle ranch or lot. $249,500. #309171 $229,900. #355907.Hosted by Ron w/hay equestrian use. $574,900. #284837 AFFORDABlE COUNTRY HOmE... on Wortham.

OWNER/FINANCING... for qualified 1/2 ac.. Living rm w/ free stand4-PlEx lOT... Close to services, all buyer on this great newer condo. 2 ing woodstove, adjoining kitchen & utilities available, ready to build. Pos- BR, 1.75 baths. No age restrictions. dining. 3 BR + den/hobby rm. 1 3/4 sible split to 2 lots & sell for residen- $199,500. #283810 Baths. 2 outbuildings. $195,000.

OWN YOUR BUSINESS... Nice Burl- #233664 tial. $120,000. #353833 ington location w/2 businesses + SAmISH ISlAND... gorgeous views BUSINESS FOR SAlE... Well estab- apt above.Just 4 yrs old. $375,000. from solid one level home. 3Br, 2BA, lished landscape supply business. #286418 great room, detached 20X40 shop Net income $108,000 this year. AlGER & OlD 99... Corner of high traf- w/3bays. Beautiful beach. $998,000. $129,500. #283797 fic area (Alger Tavern). Rambler, lots #325202 SmAll GRAVEl PIT... 20 acres near of possibilities. Rural village Com- COUNTRY ClUB RAmBlER... Updated Sedro Woolley. Water & power mercial zoning! $179,000. #324553 kitchen/bath,warm bright colors thruavailable to build your new home. BURlINGTON BUIlDING lOT... Con- out, hardwood flrs, gas f/place. Bose venient location nice neighbor- sound system & more. $394,000. $99,500. #330672 hood, close to all services. $59,500. #313474 RIVERFRONT RECREATION... 2 acres #328176 BlUEBERRY FARm... 68 acres “Cerof camping paradise on Skagit River. CONCRETE... fixer on acreage! 3 use- tififed Organic”, fully irrigated & Well & septic in, bathrooms w/show- able acres, partially cleared. Home is subterranean drainage system er, 3 newer travel trailers. $89,000 1 1/2 story. 4 bdrms up 1 down & 1 $2,100,000. #329958 bath. $119,000. #239452 #297118 Dick Best Galen Kindred Shelah Inman Fritz Inman Jeff Ingman

Evening Phone Calls Welcome

770-1491 770-7083 661-0145 661-0147 202-2859

Tod LeHecka 333-1032 Mary Jo Reitsma 770-6013 Terri Heyntsen 391-0938 Tim Reichert 391-5587 Jan Scally 421-5160

goskagit.com/reweekly

Holly Hilts Phil Hurtig Ron Wortham

661-5538 770-0787 661-1500

™

A Home Full of Extras! $319,000 Cul-de-sac of beautiful Eaglemont homes. Privatenatural habitat on back, sides & across street. 4 BR, 2.5 BA w/fireplaces in living room & den. Awesome rear deck to enjoy woodlands & wildlife. Walk to golf course! Dine at clubhouse. MLS#351612 Leigh Zwicker 360.333.9975 or Greg Crosby 360.941.0223

Beautiful Park Like ~ 2.5 Acres $238,000 3 bedrooms 2 full bathrooms, living room with bay window, vaulted ceilings & gas fireplace.

3 bay 28x34 Ft. shop w/220 power. A scenic driveway opens to an alluring landscaped setting.

MLS#239936 Jones Atterberry 360.708.8935

Immaculate and Big! $235,500 Well built Homestead home with 4 bedrooms & 2.5 baths. 2100 SF. Formal living, family room & rec room. Fully fenced backyard + shed. Space for boat or RV. Cozy & inviting home. MLS#354810 Allen Workman 360.770.4948

Single Level! TWO Master Suites $219,500 Hard to find 5 bed/3bath home. Kitchen w/marble, newer appliances, pantry & ample storage. Prime corner lot w/views of mountains & open space across the street. MLS#350179 Lisa Strandberg 360.661.2710

Real Estate Weekly

May 25, 2012

5

h o me h e a lt h

What Boomers Want Nearly all pre-retirees want to age in place in their homes, and they’re relying on home-health tech to do so For baby boomers who have come to expect the best, they’re now thinking about making their older years the healthiest. Many have or will design or remodel their existing homes with universal design principals to make aging in them more practical and safe, such as lower countertops, wider entries and hallways, and curbless showers. But there also are new in-home technological advances that will make boomers’ lives easier – and healthier.

Just how big is demand for aging-in-place technology?

Huge, and it’s growing.

According to the MetLife Mature Marketing Institute, 91 percent of pre-retirees aged 50 to 65 want to live in their homes in retirement.

Aging-in-place technology already is a $2 billion industry, according to Laurie M. Orlov, who writes the “Aging in Place Technology Watch” blog at AgeInPlaceTech.com.

Telehealth devices designed specifically to maintain wellness – weight scales, blood pressure cuffs, and diabetes monitoring devices,

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May 25, 2012

for example – are big, as are passive activity monitoring systems. The Intel-GE Care Innovations QuietCare system, for example, detects activity or the lack thereof through motion sensors placed throughout a home, which alerts a call center, if necessary.

Besides health and safety, there’s a financial incentive.

Having a home wired and equipped with proper software and products costs an

average of $4,000, plus $130 a month for monitoring, says Ric Johnson, chief systems designer for Elite Systems Solutions, an electric homesystems company based in Waynesfield, Ohio. Johnson regularly tackles such work – perhaps, wiring and adding software so an adult child living away from aging parents can keep an eye on the home or be sure the parent took proper medication. Or, the

elderly parents can check their own blood pressure and relay the information to a health provider and get a quick response. Making such changes can help the aging homeowner avoid the greater expense of heading to an assisted living facility apartment, which cost $41,000 a year last year while a nursing home was a costlier $85,000 a year in 2011, according to a MetLife survey.

Other experts are joining the bandwagon. Johnson often performs his work in conjunction with contractors, builders or architects like Tony Crasi, an Akron, Ohio-based architect who often works with Johnson on projects, has earned the Certified Aging-inPlace designation from the National Association of Home Builders, meaning he is specialized in modifying homes for aging in place.

Crasi might be responsible for building a first-floor bedroom and bathroom or widening hallways before Johnson installs the systems.

But before choices are made, Orlov urges buyers to do thorough research, particularly with merchandise from new vendors. “Determine what the main physical and mental limitations are that need to be dealt with, so you pick the best products. Search for online information about them and comparable ones, call companies, ask for testimonials, and, if feasible, ask to speak with satisfied customers,” Orlov says.

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

www.WindermereSkagit.com

bu y i ng

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

The Steps to

Affordability The NAHB’s Housing Affordability Pyramid offers a look at how many U.S. households can afford homes in various price ranges

It might not come as a shock, but it’s worth repeating: As household income increases, so does the amount of home that household can afford.

The National Association of Home Builders’ Priced Out Model translates income data into the distribution of homes that U.S. households can afford.

Naturally, the NAHB calls the narrow-at-the-top, wide-at-the-bottom construct the Housing Affordability Pyramid. At the base of the U.S. housing market is a large number of households with relatively modest incomes. The homes these households can afford also are relatively modest.

Based on conventional assumptions and underwriting standards, it takes an income of about $26,430 to purchase a $100,000 home. In 2012, about 28.9 million households – the bottom step of the pyramid – in the U.S. are estimated to have incomes lower than that threshold and therefore can only afford homes priced less than $100,000. Of the remaining 87.5 million households who can afford a home priced at $100,000, 23.3 million can afford a home priced somewhere between $100,000 and $175,000.

The trend continues upward, offering a maximum affordable price range for fewer and fewer households, with the peak showing a small share – 2 percent of households – being able to afford homes priced more than $1.25 million.

The Housing Affordability Pyramid is based on an income threshold and a 10-percent down-payment assumption.

HOUSE PRICE

Us Households (In Millions)

By Highest Priced Home They Can Afford Based on Income: 2012 > 125 million

2.0

850K - 125 million

2.4

700 - 850K

2.5

575 - 700K

4.1

475 - 575K

5.8

400 - 475K

7.0

325 - 400K

9.2

250 - 325K

13.8

175 - 250K

18.0

100 - 175K

22.8

0 - 100K

28.9

goskagit.com/reweekly

8047 AVERY LANE, SDW $144,900 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 43699 E. MAIN ST., CNC $209,900 Historical vintage home offered for the first time in over 60 years. Approx. 3160 sq.ft., 5 bedrooms, detailed craftsmanship throughout with open beam ceilings, beautiful moldings. New furnace, gas fireplace & free standing gas stove. 2 detached 14458 BRADSHAW RD, MV $299,950 garages. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #280977 Very nice 4 bedroom, 1.75 bath rambler with sunroom. Large 118 E. HIGHLAND ST., MV $219,000 master. Attached 2 car garage. 900 SF shop with heat & 220.

Located on .66 acre with lovely mature landscaping, fully Totally remodeled in-city rambler. Built 1915, effective age 2012. New roof, heating system, flooring, appliances, plumbing fenced. Peaceful west side location. Call Alice Hanson at 7708791. #356423 & electrical, deck, fencing, gas fireplace, granite counters & much more. Top quality materials and workmanship throughout. Call Jim Glackin at 428-2828. #340585

3601 FRANCIS RD, MV $235,000 Classic traditional 1942 home with 4 bedrooms, 2 baths on .5 acre with gorgeous westerly views. Original charm maintained with maple & fir floors, loads of built-ins & country kitchen.

Updated electric, gas furnace, windows. Call Karen Beckner at 840-9455. #356744

8739 LUSK RD, CNC $349,500 Lovely home in country setting. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, vaulted ceilings & 2100+ SF. Hardwood floors, fireplace & skylights.

Covered porch & large deck. 2+ acres with mountain views.

35x45 shop with 3 – 14 ft. doors & 220 power. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #356327 22578 S.R. 534, CONWAY $399,000 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

12690 WAYWARD WAY, CL $409,900 Very nice, large 3600+ SF, 4 bedroom home on 1 acre. Dining, living, family, rec/bonus & media rooms. Enjoy the sunset & lake view. 30x40 two bay shop. More photos & info at skagitval1319 DIGBY PL, MV $250,000 leyhomes.com. Call Bill & Hanette Krieger at 421-4446. #347053 $424,950 Maddox Creek end unit townhome with 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths & 303 E. JONES RD, SDW westerly views. Lovely landscaping. Open floor plan with kitchen Immaculate custom 3 bedroom, 2.25 bath home. 2 car garage, with granite counters, skylight, alder cabinets & stainless appli- 30x20 shop & 60x36 shop both with heat. Located on .86 acre with additional 1.33 acres adjoining with development potenances. 2 car garage. Call Karen Beckner at 840-9455. #357295 7110 STEELHEAD LN, BRL $279,000 tial. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #345096 Well maintained 4 bedroom, 2.25 bath home, 1700 sq.ft. nestled along the Samish River 73+/- ft. high bank river frontage. Many upgrades, windows light fixtures, new gutters, ext. paint & more. Covered deck & gazebo with privacy fence & shed. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #345622

1301 ALPINE VIEW DR., MV $429,000 Beautiful Eaglemont home on the 12th green offers: 4 bedrooms, 2629 SF, 3 car garage & main floor master. Brazilian Labradorite stone c’tops & all new hardwood. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #269149

STOP! Let us make this easy for you.

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!

Real Estate Weekly

May 25, 2012

7

Clean House Naturally & Avoid Toxic Cleansers It’s time to tackle the annual home cleaning. But just because you’re thoroughly washing, scrubbing and disinfecting your home, doesn’t mean you need to turn to cleansers with harsh ingredients and chemicals. In fact, you can easily clean using inexpensive products already in your kitchen, such as vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice. Use these tips to clean your home naturally.

Start seeing clearly: After months of winter weather, windows are often coated with a layer of grime. A solution of 2 teaspoons of white vinegar and 1 liter of warm water can be used to gently remove dust or dirt from all glass surfaces including windows and mirrors.

Freshen up the fridge: In addition to food spills, your refrigerator takes on odors from all the different foods stored throughout the year. Discard old items and be sure you are regularly cleaning out the fridge. Help reduce odors year-round by keeping a box of ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda in the fridge at all times, replacing it every 30 days for best results.

Reawaken your wardrobe: Start the season feeling good in clothes that smell fresh. Even when carefully stored, clothing can still be exposed to dust, and may require a good washing before wearing. Add 1 cup of baking soda to your next wash to naturally boost the power of your detergent. The combination will help balance PH levels to leave clothing cleaner and fresher. You can also freshen non-washable items like gym shoes, bags and sports equipment by sprinkling baking soda inside.

Renew the everyday rooms: Avoid the fumes of harsh kitchen and bathroom cleaners by naturally cleaning surfaces with baking soda. A sprinkle of baking soda on a damp sponge will clean counters, stainless steel sinks, microwaves, ovens and much more without scratching. For tough grease, mix vinegar and lemon juice to leave your surfaces like new.

Bet on a BBQ: After the inside of your home is looking spic and span, prepare for warmer weather and outdoor entertaining. Get your grill ready to prevent bad tasting hot dogs and hamburgers from ruining your next BBQ. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp brush, then scrub away any residue and rinse clean. For really difficult stains, make a paste with 3 parts baking soda to 1 part warm water and use a wire-bristled brush to work away at grime and grease stains.

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May 25, 2012

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Q&A What’s the holdup?

QUESTION: My son bid on a short sale over six months ago for a house with the right price, location and size. The lender has a lien on the property that was supposed to be addressed within the first two months of the bid. It hasn’t happened. Is there any place we can get a positive answer and not a total run-around?

ANSWER: The owners want to sell.

Since short sale owners owe more than the house is worth they need the lender’s agreement to let them out of the mortgage without demanding cash at closing.

Your son – the buyer – has found a great house at a good price. The reason the price is so good is the assumption that the lender will accept a loss.

Now imagine that you are goskagit.com/reweekly

Ask Our Broker

By Peter G. Miller

the lender. Would you rush to say yes? Only if you could ensure that you were getting the highest possible price and the smallest loss. As a lender you would want to check the market value and you might also want to see what other assets the seller has that might be used to satisfy the debt.

Demanding an instant answer from the lender may not help your son. The lender can just say no and allow the property to foreclose.

Logically, the lender should choose the option that yields the best financial result. The catch is that what seems like the best financial option is not a sure thing – real estate brokers report situations where lenders turned down short sale offers only to foreclose and later sell the property at a severe discount.

The right alternative for the seller and your son is to show the lender that the offered price is the best available, that a short sale is the better option for the lender when compared with a foreclosure and that delaying the sale could result in the lender owning the property – something it does not want.

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

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

“When sellers are interviewing real estate agents to market their homes, their primary focus is usually on the advertising that the agent will offer them,” says Jessica Goodbody of Weichert Realtors.

Let us help you meet your marketing goals by advertising your listings in Real Estate Weekly.

Call 360.416.2180 Today!

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May 25, 2012

9

WOODLAND APTS

1, 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts 2 x 1 ½ Town homes Covered Parking Complete Appliance Pkgs Sport Courts / Playgrounds Pet Friendly Call Today! 360-856-4803 1 and 2 bdrm apts.

2 bdrm townhouses.

W/S/G pd. No dogs.

Call for details, 360-856-6652 1 bdrm MV Quiet, safe, 1 level, near hospital. Seniors welcome. 1539 Skagit St. $690.

W/S/G pd. 360-652-6560 1 bdrm, M.V. or S.W. $600/mo. Call for details.

360-708-2694.

1 BDRM, MV Quiet, safe 1 level family setting. No pet/no smoke. w/s/g/tv pd. $700 mo+ dep.

Seniors welcome. Avail now 360-424-4522 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 ANACORTES 1 BDRM. Old Town, wood floors, laundry, $750. 503-369-3250 M.V. 4 plex, 2002 E. Divivion, 2 bdrm, 1 ba, upstairs apt., garage, W/S/G pd., W/D, no smoke/pets. $700/mo. $500/ dep. 360-826-4009 NO HIDDEN FEES! Fairhaven Manor 757-2149 Norris Place 757-3060 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts.

Affordable. Section 8 okay.

SMALL 1 BEDROOM Townhouse style, 3/4 bath, $650 + $500 dep. Util. incl. no pets/smoke. Sedro-Woolley 360-770-9845.

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

360-941-1081

10 25, 2012 10- May May 25,

2012

RENTALS

Spacious Apts. & Homes!

2 & 3 bedroom flats, 2 & 3 bedroom townhouses 3 bedroom houses; $705 to $1300 starting rent.

Klinger Estates, Dolly St. Townhomes, Trail West, Cascade View.

360-854-2010

1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals.

Piazza Realty Property Mgmt., Inc. 360-424-RENT (7368) www.prpmrentals.com 2 bdrm house, 312 Union St. No smoke. Small pet negot. $30 credit ck. $685 + $600 dep. S/G pd. 360-202-8678 3 bdrm, 1800 sq. ft. mfg home w/large fenced yard on ½ ac lot in S.W. 1000 sq. ft. shop & garden shed, RV/boat parking. No inside pet/smoking. Credit check & rental history req. $1400., 1st, last + $1000 dep. 360-6617138 eves til 9pm.

720 Avon Ave., Burl. 3 bdrm, 2 ba, good cond. $875/mo.

1St, last & damage. No smoke. 1 yr. Lease. 360-7088935 for applications.

Anacortes 3 bdrm rambler, exceptional and comfortable.

Excellent bargain at $1150. + dep. No smoke/pets. Lawn svc provided. 360-770-6800 Big Lake waterfront, 3+ bdrms, 2 ba, new carpets, paint, applcs. & big deck.

Gas heat & water. No smoke/pets. $1200/mo. + dep. 360-770-7527 Concrete area, 2 bdrm, 1 ba, no pets/smoke, credit report, $675/mo. + $500/dep.

360-708-9199 Darling cabin, $500 mo., Concrete area. Call 360-3337725.

Nice 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba, garage, Concrete, $750/mo. Avail.

July 1st. 360-333-7725

Houses & Apartments.

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

823 N. 4th, Mount Vernon 360-424-3198 Stop renting–rent to own!

Bad credit okay.

MV 3 / 2 ½, bonus room, garage, large fenced yard, quiet neighborhood. $1445. 360-422-5708 www.skagitsolutions.com Vintage 2 bdrm near Big Lake quiet country living, avail. July, W/S/G pd. no smoke/pets. Background ck. $800 + dep. 360-422-8922.

2 bdrm, 1 ba, nice quiet So. MV area, W/S/G pd. W&D incl. Gas heat. No smoke/pets. $25 app fee. $725/mo + sec. dep. 360-629-0430 MV 49 WILLOW LANE 1 bdrm, 1 ba. On-site laundry & storage. Ample parking. No pets. $625 incl. W/S/G. Avail now. Nice. 360-420-5700

½ off first months rent2 Bdrm, 1 ¾ Ba, S.W. Garage, W/D, gas heat, approx. 1100 sf., lrg. Closets, built in storage, 1 level. $825/mo. Piazza Property Mgmt., 360-424-7368 MV 3 plex, 2201 N. 20 , 2 bdrm, 1 ba, garage, all new floor coverings & paint, woodstove, near college, $750/mo., $500/dep. 360424-6974.

MV 6 plex 427 N. 21st St., 1 bdrm, 1 ba, lrg. deck, upstairs, central laundry, carport, $625/mo. $400/dep.

360-424-6974 th

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

Park Village 55+ park, 2 bdrm, 2 ba, corner lot, 2 sheds, 1,536 sq. ft. $24,950. Call Mick 360224-5250

LaConner prime retail shop space avail., 1200 sq. ft. avail. June 1st , 710 S. 1st St. Water side deck along with 2 office storage retail rooms.

Jack Estep 206-669-2447

VIEW LOT NEEDS DREAM HOME. All utilities and approved plans.

Owner contract. $119,000.

360-422-5708 www.skagitsolutions.com

Jones Atterberry's listing, John L. Scott Anacortes, and new Mount Vernon location, 300 E. College Way, 360-708-8935

Brand New 0 Down Homes!

$22 hrly Income Qualifies Cheaper than rent 24 hour Recording INSTANT PROPERTY INFO 1-800-270-4033 EXT 3000 Visit www.bestplataround.com

for pics, prices and maps Free list of 0 down homes w/pics: www.0downlistings.com MUST SELL Fixer Uppers Distress Sales Bank Foreclosures Free list with pics: www.WaBankHomes.com DIRECT 425-345-4920 JEFF LATHAM KWNWRE

Open House Sat. & Sun. 11-3pm Peaceful, quiet home, view, 2 bdrm, 1.75 ba, 2 car garage, garden area, RV parking.

FSBO. $205K. 345 Seaview Court, Camano Island.

425-344-0480

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

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

1410 MIDCREST ROAD, CAMANO ISLAND $275,000

Sedro-Woolley Commercial Real Estate, hi traffic for excellent exposure.

Easy highway pull out for in & out services. Multi-zoned for maximum use. 1.5 acres $379,900. Commercial, storage, retail, paid parking? Your options are many. John L. Scott Real Estate, Solveig & Jones Atterberry, 360-708-8935.

5 beautiful sub-dividable acres, 3 bdrm, 1 ba rambler, wood floors, fireplace, shop, RV parking, cedar grove, pasture, territorial views.

Burlington.

No Agents. 206-920-9695

Country living at its best.

Meticulously maintained 3 bdrm 2 ba home w/ vaulted ceilings, dual pane windows & wood stove for your comfort. Beautiful master suite features a walk-in closet, jetted tub & 2 sink vanity. Park like 2.6 acres w/ lrg 30x60 drive thru shop w/ a 12' door and space for all your cars, your boat or RV. Fully fenced back yard for the dogs to roam & lrg deck for BBQ's & outdoor entertaining - very private setting. A must see for your selective buyer! MLS# 353358 Call Rita Ingram, (360)7088338 WRE/Skagit Valley

Extra sharp 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba, off Baker View Park and 30th, 2905 Timothy Place. $146,950.

Call (509) 237-3738.

A Real Class Act! $289,500. 12152 Classic Place, Burlington. 2 plus bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, single story home.

MLS#356630. www.12152classicplace.z57websites.com.showcase.z57.com John L. Scott Real Estate, Solveig & Jones Atterberry, 360-708-8935.

1819 SANDALWOOD CT, MOUNT VERNON

Community Park access thru backyard gate.

3BD/2BA, 1398sf. New interior/exterior paint. New F/A gas furnace. Both full baths have new vinyl flooring. Master bath has new tub & 2nd full bath has new tub & surround. Laminate floors throughout. Family room w/gas freestanding fireplace opens to deck & fenced backyard. 2 outbuildings. Kitchen & laundry appliances stay. #359588 $175,000.

Steve Zimmerman 360-202-1231 Preview Properties Skagit LLC

Don’t Shell Out a Lot of Cash; Use the Classifieds.

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

Log home on 5 acres, large shop, sunny, mtn views, great horse or mini farm, Birdsview, $289,000.

360-770-8718

LAKE GOODWIN $3,995,000

For sale: Concrete, WA. 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba, 1708 sf. built in 2004 on 5 plus acre rambler w/open floor plan,free standing propane stove, cermice tile entry, oak cabinets w/center island, dinning area, utility-pantry combo, cedar deck w/sunsetter awning, skagit river access, would make good horse property, possible owner financing-trade, $199,999.00. Call Dann 360-770-2840 e-mail crouchdann@yahoo.com

Private waterfront estate.

Beautifully landscaped grounds. Over 7300 sq ft of master craftsmanship living space, primary residence & guesthouse w/RV port.

Moorage, boatlift & helipad.

Must see property!

FSBO 360-652-1819

Smart shoppers know about the bargains hidden within the Classified pages. In the Classifieds, you can track down deals on everything from tickets to trailers.

It’s easy to place an ad or find the items you want, and it’s used by hundreds of area shoppers every day.

360-424-4567 Stop renting-rent to own!

Bad credit okay.

MV 3 / 2 ½, bonus room, garage, large fenced yard, quiet neighborhood. $1445. 360-422-5708 www.skagitsolutions.com

BEAUTIFUL NEW HOME 2281 S. 19th Street This newly-completed 2000 sq.ft. rambler features 4 bdrm, 2 1/2 baths on a large lot in a secluded, quiet S. MV mature neighborhood. Designed for relaxed living with an open floor plan and high ceilings.

Granite countertops, stainless steel appliances. Master suite features soaking tub, double vanity, double shower and huge walk-in closet. Low maintenance exterior with Hardi siding & stone patio. All on one level with low step-ins. Call Jeff Ingman for a personal showing. $309,500.

(360) 202-2859 Brown McMillen Real Est.

Owner Contract: 1300 sq. ft. 3 bdrm, 1 ba, private shy 1/3 acre in Sedro-Woolley with shop. Recent updates include: kitchen countertops, tile backsplash, new vinyl/carpet. Newer roof. $122,950. 360-826-3227 or 360-661-2113.

7342 Valley View Estate, Sedro-Woolley, 2.5 acres, big shop, 3 bedroom home & sun deck. When you see this home & land you are just going to fall in love. $238,000.00. John L. Scott Real Estate, Solveig & Jones Atterberry, 360-7088935.

Real Estate Weekly

25, 2012 11 - 11 May 25,May 2012

13 (TRACT) S RIETZE AVE, CONCRETE

City sewer; water in street; power in street.

3/10 acre tract has been used for recreational vehicle. Could be built on. Driveway in (packed down). 65’+ x 199’+ lot dimensions.

MLS#208338

$19,900

Danya Wolf 360-708-8294

46349 BAKER LOOP RD, CONCRETE

Well maintained five year old D. B. Johnson two story home situated on 0.4725 acre with wonderful, expansive yard! Home is well cared for and offers nice, light colors.

Beautifully decorated! Office/den could be fourth bedroom. SHORT SALE. MLS#355981

$125,000

NHN MOUNTAIN VIEW LANE, ROCKPORT $75,000

19540 PARSON CREEK RD., SEDRO-WOOLLEY $139,000

Brett Tacker 360-840-7931

Scenic mountain views located at the foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range and within easy walking distance of the beautiful Sauk River very near the community of Rockport and the scenic North Cascade Highway. This is ideal for those who enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, hiking, photography and many more activities. Richard Dickman MLS#294867 360-424-0300

Beautiful 1.13 acre, convenient location to Bellingham and Burlington. This property would lend itself well to removing current manufactured home & replacing with a new one or custom build. It is fully fenced and has a 2 car garage and storage shed. MLS#300921

$269,000

20990 KELLEHER RD, BURLINGTON

$189,000

Donna Kurras 360-770-7596

Donna Kurras 360-770-7596

3498 SAMISH VIEW LANE, SEDRO-WOOLLEY $179,900

19945 PARSON CREEK RD, SEDRO-WOOLLEY $244,900

821 DANA DR., SEDRO-WOOLLEY

Lovely property w/3.3 ac (8 miles from town). Country home w/beautifully remodelled kitch & newer appls incl. Added insul. & vinyl windows. Deck off back. Hot tub. Dog Kennel. Rural setting w/Samish River below (high above the flood plain)! Lg util/mud rm w/deep, dble sinks.

Small shop w/loft, hen house; patio; fruit trees Jessie Cavazos & garden space. MLS#311196 360-770-5623

Wonderful 1620 sq. foot home is located in a great area and offers a shop/garage, a detached studio, generous decking with hot tub. On generous fenced acre. Kitchen w/ eating area; large pantry; plus formal dining room. Living room offers free standing JoAnn Boudreau propane stove. MLS#334536 360-391-0746

Spacious rambler in a beautiful neighborhood features bamboo floors, wall-to-wall carpet & vinyl upgrades throughout. Remodeled gourmet kit comes w/place for dbl ovens built into the design. Outdoors offers a large fenced yard w/raised garden beds. RV pkg is available separate from fenced yard. MLS#111942

Sandy Everett 360-202-3706

This unique farmhouse has had many upgrades including oak kitchen cabinets and tile counter tops. The 2nd floor master bedroom has loads of storage and a separate bonus room for office/den/hobbies. Home has a garage, shop & attached carport for an RV. MLS#286030

6331 HIGHWAY 9 N., SEDRO-WOOLLEY $115,000

20571 ENGLISH RD., MOUNT VERNON $179,000

1100 N 12TH ST., MOUNT VERNON

$186,000

2906 BAKERVIEW PL, MOUNT VERNON $159,900

Lovely property with .92 acre. Spacious kitchen and newer appliances included. Vinyl windows.

Deck off back with stairs and ramp, all covered for handicap access. Nice rural setting (high above the flood plain). Includes a garage & shop. MLS#343629

Beautiful country living in Conway. Charming home has 2 bedrooms and 1.75 baths, interior and exterior paint new. Large patio to help enjoy this 1/2 acre lot. Vinyl windows and new insulation in attic and under floor. Includes detached garage and storage shed. Great neighborhood, minutes from I-5. MLS#325678

This Mount Vernon home has it all. 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and a beautifully landscaped yard with large evergreen trees, fully fenced. The house has natural gas, forced air heat. The master bedroom has a walk-in closet. There is a nice deck off the dining room. All appliances stay.

The house is located on a cul-de-sac and is Suzanne Jenkins minutes from I-5. MLS#350041 360-941-2983

Ron Proctor 360-333-0303

512 TALBOT ST., LA CONNER

$1,350/MO. 2125 GUNN RD., MOUNT VERNON

$114,900

500 N LAVENTURE RD, MOUNT VERNON $179,900

RE

NT AL

3 STARVATION RIDGE LANE, BAYVIEW $249,000

Ron Proctor 360-333-0303

Across street from Bakerview Park. Convenient SKAT & school bus stop on corner of North 30th and Bakerview.

Nicely maintained Skyline doublewide manuf’d home w/vaulted ceilings, lots of light, spacious rms, island kitchen with a multitude of cabinetry & breakfast bar, separate utility rm. Generous sized double garage attached. Linda Dietrick Fenced yard w/patio. MLS#171397 360-840-6771

Perfect location. Perfect view. Perfect ambiance. 2.5 acre parcel near Bayview sets nicely back from and above the bay to afford the maximum view of the water and mountains. Power, cable, PUD water, and phone lines to tract. MLS#347366

Danya Wolf 360-708-8294

This distinctive home really is “better than new”.

New hardwood, wall-to-wall and a gas fireplace greet you on entry. The gourmet kitchen has all new stainless appliances & an island. Spacious den. 2 full baths & 2 large bedrooms complete the home. La Conner businesses are within walking distance. Application fee. MLS#352829

Sandy Everett 360-202-3706

Parklike setting with 10 varieties of apples, 4 kinds of cherries, 3 plum trees & kiwi. Exterior is wainscoting style. Painted above with clear cedar siding below. Mostly oak flooring. Wonderful garden views. Ceiling fan in living room and in master bedroom. Will consider trade for rural property/ small acreage. NOT A SHORT SALE! NOT A BANK Danya Wolf FORECLOSURE OR HUD HOME! MLS#207773 360-708-8294

360.424.0300 or 360.853.8888 or 800.697.4118

Mount Vernon’s “Stonebridge 55 and Better” quality built home features 1368 sq.ft. of single level living w/beautiful hardwood floors throughout; spacious living rm w/natural gas log fplace, dining area; 2 generous sized bedrooms & a den. Kitchen offers paneled oak cabinets, lots of light and walk in pantry. Covered deck w/ Suzanne Jenkins view. MLS#338088 360-941-2983

3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon

www.skagittraditionrealty.com 12

May 25, 2012

Real Estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly