Real Estate Weekly | May 9, 2014

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

INSIDE RE-Weekly This Issue TRENDS P. 3

ALL THE SINGLE BUYERS P. 4

Q & A: ASK OUR BROKER P. 8

WONDERFUL MIDCENTURY CLASSIC WITH A VIEW FEATURE HOME: 817 N. 9TH STREET, MOUNT VERNON Robin Lee Luif, Windermere Real Estate/Skagit Valley

RealEstate weekly

SEE PAGE 5 FOR MORE

$248,000 (360)420-2026

A supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald and the Anacortes American

ROOMTOROOM HOME ADDITIONS P. 9

CLASSIFIEDS P. 1011

MAY 9  15, 2014

Re-Weekly content sponsored by: Whidbey Island Bank

TABLE OF CONTENTS Trends

P. 3

All The Single Buyers

P. 4

Q & A: Ask Our Broker

P. 8

Room-to-Room Home Additions

P. 9

Classifieds

You Find It, We Fund It.

9

P. 10-11

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Our home loans fit just about every need and they come with extremely competitive rates.

For more information, stop by any Whidbey Island Bank Office. Or just give us a call.

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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

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Mount Vernon (360) 757-5073 Sedro-Woolley (360) 757-5073

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all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

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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

W NE

G TIN LIS

OPEN HOUSE SAT MAY 10TH 1-3PM

105 Cedarwood Place Mount Vernon $274,000 Dir: E. on Division. Turn Left on Cedarwood. Property is on Left hand side. Custom 3 bed + den/office.

Approx. 2311 sq. ft. Kitchen opens to family rm. Lg. Master suite w/jetted tub & shower. Great backyard, rare 1/3 acre lot. MLS #593431

Bellingham

W NE

$239,000

W NE

Concrete

$345,000

Extremely well maintained home. 3 BD, 2 BA, 1671 sq. ft.. Vaulted ceilings, skylights, & gas FP. In great rm. Roomy kitchen w/ eating bar. 35X52 shop w/ ½ bath. 5 level and cleared acres. Beautiful mountain views! MLS #629051

Call Wilma, 661-1631

Call Debbie, 708-8780

2

Charlie & Jeannie Boon 708-9645

Jim Stransky 708-1681

Kirk Campbell 770-7470

$169,950

Bright and airy updated rambler. 3 BD, 1 BA. Hardwood floors thru-out. Brick Fireplace. Freshly painted in lovely tones. Kitchen feat. granite counters and ceramic tile floor. Spacious landscaped yard w/ fire pit. MLS #616765 Call Ron, 333-1045

G TIN LIS

Desirable condo in 55+ development in Burl. Master w/ full bath, living rm w/ fireplace & den on main floor. Loft features guest bdrm, w/ full bath. Large bonus room. Views of mtns. & sports fields.

MLS #585313

Wilma Louia Designated Broker/Owner 661-1631

Sedro Woolley

Call Maggie, 610-8413

D CE DU RE

Burlington

$115,000

Darling ground floor condo. End unit w/ vaulted ceilings & beautiful upgrades. Light and bright in all rooms. FHA and VA approved. All appliances included. MLS # 629348

Call Ivana, 770-3550

T KE AR M ON CK BA

D CE DU RE

Ron Van Pelt 333-1045

Mount Vernon

$220,000

Great location on side street. 4 BD, 2.5 BA, shy 1800 sq. ft. Lg. ¼ acre – mostly fenced. Newer high efficiency gas furnace. Lg. 2 car attached gar. w/ work benches. Extra lg. RV parking area.

MLS #605591 D CE DU E R

Mount Vernon

$595,000

Desired Bayview location. Water view. Almost 3 acres. 3100 SF, 3 BD, 3.5 BA. Lg. master suite.

Granite counters, hardwood floors. Storage for 7 vehicles. Horse barn, pasture, pond & more.

MLS #631632

Mike Welling 540-1341

RE-Weekly.com

$225,000

Manufactured home w/spacious open floor plan.

3 BD, w/ private baths, plus ½ guest bath. Built in 1999, 1980 SF. Formal dining room. Super quiet location. 30X60 shop. 3+ acres on private road.

MLS # 629269 Call Wilma, 661-1631

AL NT RE

Mount Vernon

$599,950

This is lake living! 60 ft. on lake front. Large 3 BD, house. In floor heating thru-out. Central vac., security sys., surround sound and more. RV hook up, 3 bay garage w/ 11 ft. doors. Many upgrades!

MLS #617356

Concrete

Debbie Allen 708-8780

Corinne Cartwright 202-2397

$1000/month

Plus a security deposit. Home is located in Wilderness Village. 12 month lease required. 2 BD, 1.75 BA approx. 1200 sq. ft.. Attached 2 car garage. Pets negotiable Call Property Management, 755-5555

Call Corinne, 202-2397

Call Kirk, 770-7470

Ivana Wood 770-3550

Sedro Woolley

Call Charlie, 708-1415 or Jeannie, 708-9645

G TIN LIS

Elizabeth Detillion 708-8800

W NE

G TIN LIS

Maggie deSouza 610-8413

Steph Vervaart Property Mgmt Assistant

Traci Erickson Property Manager 391-2969

May 9, 2014

Trends

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Vacation-home sales up, investment-home sales down

udging by the numbers, many more Americans will be enjoying vacation homes this summer.

Vacation-home sales jumped nearly 30 percent in 2013 to an estimated 717,000 new and existing home sales, up from 533,000 in 2012.

Vacation-home sales made up 13 percent of all transactions in 2013, their highest share since 2006. The median vacationhome price was $168,700, up 12.5 percent from $150,000 in 2012.

The typical buyer was 43 years old, had a median household income of $85,600, and purchased a property that was a median distance of 180 miles from his or her primary residence. Forty-six percent of vacation homes were within 100 miles of the buyer’s primary residence, and more than one-third (34 percent) were more than 500 miles away.

Though the buyers plan to own the property for a median of six years (down from 10 years in 2012), 5 percent had already resold their property and another 9 percent planned to do so within a year, a reflection of the more than a quarter

Brown McMillen Real Estate

w w w. b r o w n m c m i l l e n . c o m • 235 W. Rio Vista Avenue, Burlington

HILLCREST RAMBLER..sharp brink home near HillHOSTED BY SHELAH INMAN. Charming cottage, Mt. crest Park. 1366sf w/detached brick garage. $214,950. HOSTED BY SHELAH INMAN COUNTRY CLUB RAMBLER w/shop, quality 4 BR, 2 BA home, 2483sf, great room. Fin#616175 Vernon hill, fenced backyard. $213,000. #611641 INDUSTRIAL LAND..3.53 level acres in Burlington Hill STREAM RUNS THRU IT..20 acres at end of the ished 1700sf shop. $479,000. #473037 Industrial Park. Excellent location to open your new busi- road. Private setting with a nice little stream. $65,000. READY TO BUILD? Very nice .41 acre level bldg lot in ness. $595,000. #480718 #600901 city limits, utilities in street w/only a lot line adjustment, PRIVATE 20 ACRES..secluded bldg site, mostly level, LOVELY CUL-DE-SAC LOCATION..4 BR, 2.5 BA home. could be turned into 2 lots. Call your contractor today! end of road property. $100,000. #297233 2670sf of living space. Formal living & dining rooms, $75,000. #576834 SEDRO-WOOLLEY LOT..almost 3 acres, septic design good sized family room, lg patio & much more. #375,000. BIRDSVIEW BEAUTY..located at end of paved cul-dedone, power/water & well in. On dead end Street. Mobile #582124 sac this lovely 2.5 acre lot has a drilled well. $99,000.

OK. Close to town, ready to build. $54,900. #455168 NEAR KAYAK GOLF COURSE..13.77 acres in secluded #596907 GORGEOUS CUSTOM CRAFTSMAN home just complet- setting. Opportunity knocks, just $69,500. #554649 ed on an acre on Bow Hill. Over 2500sf, 3 BR, 2.5 BA, lots ACRE WITH VIEW..of Mount Baker. Nice private location of built-ins, Beech cabinets + 3 car garage. $485,000. near Big Lake w/PUD water to lot. $89,500. #611766 #409469 GREAT LOCATION..28,500sf level lot, utilities available.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US 4 PLUS ACRES..located between Burlington & Sedro- Possible to plat into 4 lots or build one nice large home.

Woolley. Mostly pasture and priced at $33,000 less than $149,500. #557334 assessed valuation. A bargain at $60,000. #624310 H

IN

G P E OP L E

’S

Ron Wortham Tod LeHecka Terri Heyntsen

661-1500 333-1032 391-0938

Galen Kindred 770-7083 Tim Reichert 391-5587 Mary Jo Reitsma 770-6013

RE-Weekly.com

Jan Scally Shelah Inman Fritz Inman

AG I T PU

SK

PEOPLES CHOICE

BEST REAL ESTATE OFFICE

BL

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ICE 2013

May 9, 2014

661-5538 333-7783 202-2859

12897 EAGLE DR., BURLINGTON OPEN HOUSE SAT. MAY 10 12-2

625 N. 8TH ST, MOUNT VERNON OPEN HOUSE SAT. MAY 10 10-12

HO

Holly Hilts Jodi Dynes Jeff Ingman

360.757.6013 800.869.7084

C

EDGE OF MT VERNON..enjoy this 1/2 acre, 4 BR, 3 BA, 1 story home with full daylight separate living area. Lg 2 car shop w/200 amp service. $415,000. #526039 WATERFRONT HOME..stunning architectural home on south facing low bank lot in Anacortes. Wonderful setting, just $799,000. #588545 GORGEOUS RAMBLER..on full acre lot overlooking Nookachamps Valley near Big Lake. Extensive hardwood floors, huge kitchen w/granite counter tops. $379,500. #531212 VERY NICE 21 ACRE…bldg site in rural area, close to town. Lots of road frontage, could possibly be split into multiple lots. Possible owner contract. $124,500. #557913 TIME TO BUILD..great opportunity to build your dream home on this 5 acre parcel. Wonderful panoramic views. $260,000. #379837 17 ACRES..just 6 miles from Mt. Vernon w/public water & wonderful valley & mtn views. $239,500. #594939

of vacation-home buyers who said they purchased the home to diversify their investments or saw it as a good investment opportunity. Overall, 87 percent of vacationhome buyers plan to use the property for that purpose, and 31 percent also plan to make the home a primary residence in the future.

However, investment-home purchases fell 8.5 percent to 1.1 million in 2013 from 1.21 million in 2012. The pullback in investment activity was understandable, according to NAR Chief Economist Lawrence, due to rising prices and declining discount inventory.

“In 2011 and 2012, investment property was a no-brainer because home prices had sharply over-corrected during the downturn in many areas, creating great bargains that could be quickly turned into profitable rentals. With a return to more normal market conditions, investors now have to evaluate their purchases more carefully and do their homework,” Yun said in a statement.

The median investment home price was $130,000, up 13 percent from $115,000 in 2012.

IN N ER

421-5160 661-0145 661-0147

3

All the Single Buyers It’s tougher for unmarried buyers to get into the market.

Here is how to appeal to them.

S

ingle buyers have been one of the biggest casualties of the economic downturn and the housing bust. Rising home prices and stricter lending rules have kept many young professionals out of the market. Those who can afford are refraining from jumping into the home-ownership wagon because of economic uncertainty.

According to the National Association of Realtors, the market share of single buyers nose-dived from 32 percent in 2010 to 25 percent in 2013.

“That’s a very significant drop,” says Walter Molony, an NAR spokesman.

As more and more investors are buying up properties and turning them into rentals, young buyers are being forced to take a back seat. They are priced out of the market. And that isn’t the only challenge.

Since the downturn, lenders have become wary about loan approvals without close scrutiny.

Borrowers today require a squeaky-clean credit record and sizeable down payment to qualify for mortgages.

In recent months, interest rates also have started climbing upward, adding to the anxiety of single buyers.

“Affordability conditions have been tougher for young professionals,” Molony says. “Dual-income households are more likely to have higher credit ratings.”

4

But, despite the restrictive lending practices, there still is a sizeable number of young professionals buying homes. Chris Pollinger, senior vice president of sales at First Team Real Estate in Orange County, Calif., says his office caters to many single buyers.

“We find pockets of them,” he says. “But they don’t buy across the marketplace.”

The economy was a huge strain on relationships, and as it began to improve couple parted ways resulting in higher divorces. Pollinger says many of his single clients are divorced women, a group more likely to buy in this economy compared to their male counterparts, he adds.

“When you look at the millennial crowd, younger men are not as security conscious as women,” Pollinger says. “[Single] women are entering the marketplace faster.”

Part of the reason why the young professional segment of home buyers is dwindling also is because there aren’t many homes that appeal to them. These buyers have specific needs, and if sellers are targeting this population segment, they ought to have certain things in mind, real estate professionals said.

Security is a major concern for most single buyers.

They prefer condominiums with gated access. Unlike couples or families, they want a smaller footprint.

According to the NAR, single women on an average prefer homes with a median square footage of 1,500-square-feet, compared to 1,600 by single men

RE-Weekly.com

and 1,900 by married couples. These buyers also have strong preferences about the kind of neighborhoods they want to live in. They may stumble upon their dream home easily, but if it’s not in that perfect neighborhood, they probably will walk away from making a deal.

Among single men, 63 percent say the choice of neighborhood is an important determining factor, compared to 64 percent single women.

“These buyers want to be in an urban setting where they can walk to a coffee shop, a sport complex or an art museum,” says Jennifer Fivelsdal, broker owner of JFIVE Home Realty in Redhook, N.Y. Many young professionals don’t mind a longdistance commute to work, as long as they have the recreational amenities closer to their home, Fivelsdal says.

“And because they commute to work, they like homes [that] are not high maintenance,” she says. “I had one client who even wanted the furniture that was in the home he bought.”

Single buyers prefer homes that are in good condition and are move-in ready. They like frills such as granite countertops in their kitchen, and a relaxation space such as a porch or a balcony.

While women worry more about security and school districts, single men like a flashy unit with the latest and greatest appliances, Pollinger says.

“Boys like showing off,” he adds.

May 9, 2014

FEATURE HOME FROM COVER:

STAT

817 N. 9TH STREET, MOUNT VERNON

$248,000

Windermere Real Estate/Skagit 1030 E. College Way Mount Vernon, WA 360.424.4901 Windermere Real Estate/Skagit Valley

SEASONALLY ADJUSTED

91,340 Number of Washington homes sold in the 4th Quarter of 2013 at seasonally adjusted annual rates Source: Glenn Crellin, Associate Director of Research, Rumstad Center or Real Estate Studies, University of Washington.

Robin Lee Luif

360.420.2026

Wonderful Mid-Century with classic lines & a complete view of the city, Olympics & beyond from the floor to ceiling windows.

Home was designed by Henry Klein & featured in the American Home Magazine when built. The original plans are all available including the original American Home Magazine. The home has the living space on 1 level with an extra bedroom downstairs. The floor plan was designed to flow well for entertaining. There is a nice 2-car covered parking area with storage.

NOW COULD BE THE TIME TO SELL A NEW HOME AND EARN A SLICE OF THE REAL ESTATE PIE Record-low interest rates and record-low housing prices are renewing interest in the floundering housing market for many people. “When sellers are interviewing real estate agents to market their homes, their primary focus is usually on the advertising that the agent will offer them,� says Jessica Goodbody of Weichert Realtors.

Let us help you meet your marketing goals by advertising your listings in print and online with RE-Weekly.com.

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

CALL OR EMAIL TODAY! 360.416.2180 ads@skagitads.com

RE-Weekly.com May 9, 2014

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5

www.WindermereSkagit.com VACANT LAND

RESIDENTIAL 811 S LAVENTURE #A, MV

$86,500

Cute 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath home with living area on main floor & bedrooms upper floor. Sliders to patio, separate garage & parking space. End unit.

Call Lee Ann Dean 421-3082 or Karine Anderson 421-1189. #571691

2401 W. PARKWAY DR. MV

18689 W. BIG LAKE BLVD, MV

W

$269,000

Updated, 1.5 story home on Little Mountain. 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths. Finished basement has a bar, pool table & wood stove. Vaulted ceilings, hot tub on deck with covered awning. New paint and carpet. Call Nathan Loeb at 333-7197. #620383

17304 OLYMPIC PL, MV 17064 CANTERBURY RD, B’HAM $439,000 BURLINGTON SCHOOL DISTRICT! Park-like 5.46 acres with updated home & shop. 3 bedroom home has new kitchen, windows & more. Bear Creek borders property. Near Whatcom County line & only minutes to I-5. More information at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #626640

Want Photos? They are all on our website, come see.

768 WEST RD, ALGER

$300,000

Beautiful well-maintained newer home in Glenhaven. Granite countertops, hardwood floors. 3 bedrooms, 3.25 baths & bonus room downstairs w/ closet. Access to pool, tennis court & private fishing lake. Call Nathan Loeb at 333-7197. #630764

7419 PRESSENTIN RANCH DR, CNC $329,900 View wildlife from your covered front porch in this 2954 SF home. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, master suite & bonus/media room. .5+ acre in nice newer neighborhood. Gated front entrance, patio, fire-pit, sprinkler system & dog kennel. More info at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #613920

1810 LINDSAY LOOP, MV

$379,999

Spacious 2852 SF 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath Maddox Creek home with master on main floor. Great open floor plan. Bedrooms all upstairs along with bonus room/craft area. Lot backs to greenbelt for private backyard. Call Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #586418

1312 N 43RD PLACE, MV

$424,900

Custom 4 bedroom home with beautiful detail throughout. Coffered ceilings, main floor master suite with jetted tub & shower. Large gourmet kitchen with walk-in pantry. 3 upstairs bedrooms & huge rec room & wet bar. Call Donna Rowell at 708-7984. #528255

$510,000

Beautiful 4 bedroom Big Lake home w/100ft of waterfront & dock. Spacious kitchen, open living area w/commanding views of lake & mountains.

Detached garage, plus lots of parking space. Call Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #526799

$195,000

Well maintained & affordable rambler with 1709 SF. 2 bedrooms, den, 1.75 baths, RV parking, 2 car attached garage & an additional detached 2 car garage/shop. Nicely landscaped yard. Call Lee Ann Dean at 421-3082. #610019

2347 CROSBY DR, MV

NE

15181 DESCHUTES CT. MV

$449,950

Just completed! Beautiful new home in Creekside Meadows; a community of 1 acre lots with a divided interest in a 68 parcel that would be perfect for equestrian use. More info. at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #585522

4811 BEAVER POND DR, MV

$454,900

Extraordinary living in this custom built Eaglemont Golf community residence. Brilliant open design offering 3194 SF; 5 bedrooms & 2.5 baths. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #568174

29000 OUTLOOK LN, SDW

$455,000

Incredible views of the valley, river & mountains! Wood beamed tongue & groove ceilings, extensive deck & view windows, main floor master suite. 3 bay shop. More info & photos at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #529566

18589 W. BIG LAKE BLVD, MV

$485,000

Waterfront home & shop on 1.08 acre. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths. Gorgeous lake/mountain views from kitchen/dining/great room. 50’ dock, 70’+/- waterfront. Huge 36x40 shop. Call Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #491092

$549,500

Beautifully remodeled this well-designed, spacious home boasts westerly views framed by lovely mature landscaping. Gourmet kitchen, elegant master suite & much more. Great location in Skyridge neighborhood. Call Sarah Minton at 770-3076. #579939 NE

W

NE

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WINDSONG LN, SDW,

$89,000-$95,000

Windsong Ranch Estates; a new development of 11 one-acre lots with incredible mountain views. Paved road, public water & power to each lot, conventional perc tests on file, selected lots will allow up to 2 horses. More information at SkagitValleyHomes. com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #616527

7657 SONGBIRD LN, CUSTER

$210,000

ONE LOT LEFT. Last 2.5 acre vacant lot in Hawthorne Meadows Country Estates. Views of Mt. Baker.

Water meter & 3 bedroom septic already installed along with natural gas in the street. Call Warren Bingham at 770-2421. #392630

878 JUNIPER POINTE LN, CAMANO ISL.$578,500

LOT 4, DEMING WAY, BOW

Great no-bank waterfront home on sandy Juniper Beach with 4 bedrooms, 2 baths & 2230 SF. Great views of the Cascades, Mt. Rainier & Port Susan Bay with full southern exposure. Call George Bellos at 708-9762. #620181

NHN WINDY RIDGE LN, BOW

13505 MCLEAN RD, MV

$579,900

Late 19th century farmhouse! Beautifully restored with many updates. Original fir floors, solid cedar doors & decorative millwork. 2.7 acres, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2196 SF. 4-stall barn with hay loft, shop, garage, garden shed. More info. at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #612774

7544 MERGANSER LN, BOW

$579,950

Enjoy glistening sunsets & watching the eagles soar. Superb acreage residence in Sunset Creek offers over 3000 SF of light filled living. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #555909

14626 DOGWOOD LN, MV

$649,000

Quality home on 5 acres of farm land with spectacular sunsets & mountain views. 3100+ SF, 2 gas fireplaces, designer kitchen, wood floors. 1800 SF insulated shop. Beautifully landscaped yard, located at the end of a private lane. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #610513

13299 TEAK LN, MV

$229,000

View Samish Bay, Padilla Bay, San Juan Islands & sunsets. 1+ acre view lot in Bow-Edison area. Quick access to I-5 & Chuckanut Dr. Call Warren Bingham at 770-2421. #226523

$229,000

Gorgeous sunset views from this very private .8 acre lot in BRL-Edison SD in Bow. Faces NW for fantastic views over farmlands to Samish, Orcas & Lummi Islands & all the way to Grouse Mountain, BC. Situated in an area of private, custom homes with no through traffic. #589399

0 DIGBY PL., MV

$270,000

2 parcels approved for a 5-plex & tri-plex zero lotline view townhomes. All utilities including, power, water, sewer, stormwater & natural gas are stubbed in. Call Jim Glackin at 428-2828. #450239

0 DOWNEY RD, LAC

$340,000

Rare 19.66 acres north of La Conner with lot certification. Enjoy views of Mt. Baker & the Cascades from your new home & lease the balance out to a local farmer. Call Jim Koetje at 202-2500. #566523

$719,000

NW Craftsman lodge-style home on 8+ acres, exceptional use of wood throughout, 3rd bedroom/MIL unit with 2nd kitchen, barn/shop, 700+ SF of covered patio. Beautiful views of the North Cascades & foothills. More info. at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #600636

Accountability Matters at Win Call Amie Mani a

NMLS ID# 404665 | WA-CL 713524 Branch Manager / Mortgage Consultant Windermere Mortgage Services Series LLC/Skagit Valley

Windermere Real Estate/Skagit Valley • 1030 East College Way • Mount Vernon • (360) 424-4901 • 1-800-849-7939 Balisa Koetje Bill Krieger Cindy Sullivan Dave Patterson Deborah McNeal Dick Nord

6

360-421-4111 360-421-4446 360-941-9443 360-708-5030 360-707-8073 360-661-6529

Donna Rowell Elizabeth Miller George Bellos Harry Ota Jake Koetje Jamie Yantis

360-708-7984 360-420-3607 360-708-9762 360-708-3500 360-466-8045 360-540-5264

Jannette Krieger Jim Glackin Jim Koetje Josh Scott Karen Beckner Karine Anderson

360-708-0233 360-428-2828 360-202-2500 360-708-1010 360-840-9455 360-421-1189

Kim Kelley Lee Ann Dean Linda Eastman Margy Furst Megan O’Bryan Nathan Loeb

RE-Weekly.com

360-202-5515 360-421-3082 360-202-4075 206-755-8406 360-708-5817 360-333-7197

Rita Ingram Robin Lee Luif Sarah Minton Shawn Danley Sherry Johansen Tasha Zahlis

360-708-8338 Tiffany Danley 360-420-2026 Warren Bingham 360-770-3076 360-317-5881 360-708-3636 360-391-5075

360-298-485 360-770-242

May 9, 2014

www.AnacortesRealEstate.com RESIDENTIAL 2708 GEER LANE, ANA NE

9773 DAN STREET, LA CONNER $568,000 6369 SECTION AVE, GUEMES

$159,000

Beautiful, park-like, 2+ acres has a 1 bedroom cabin & deck for entertaining. Enjoy the southern exposure & nice clearing for gardening. Conifers provide serene, secluded feeling. Great vacation get-away or build your dream house!

Margi Houghton 360-202-0041 MLS#626741

248 SATSOP PL., LA CONNER

$195,000

3 bdrm 1.75 ba Rambler. Nice floor plan & view of marina. Very well maintained & move-in ready.

Newer roof, windows, heaters, paint/stain exterior & interior, front & back deck & low maintenance landscaping. 2 car garage.

Samantha Masaoka 360-770-0929 MLS#515819

E IC PR

$228,500

$1,500,000

1920 Tudor Style Brick home overlooking Guemes Channel. Large 37,570 sf lot w/204 feet on 10th St, allows for another building site. 4 bdrm-3 .5 ba, hardwood floors, wood-paneled study & views from almost every room. Privacy 12-foot Laurel hedge along the street.

John Prosser Jr. 360-202-3891 MLS#540524

VACANT LAND NE

W

NE

W

7822 S BEACH LANE, GUEMES

$234,000

Beautiful 1+ acre cleared lot, spectacular panoramic view of the Guemes Channel, Islnds & Cascade Mnts. Water w/Channel View Community well.

Utilities at street. Beach access is across the road.

Margi Houghton 360-202-0041 MLS#622042 NE

W

GE AN CH

CAMPBELL LAKE RD, ANA

$689,000

Wonderful views from this like new home in Spinnaker Cove. Great Kitchen, Master on main, Lower level has large family rm & wet bar. Granite, hardwoods, tile, & carpet throughout. Partially fenced, level backyard w/patio off family room.

Bill Robillard 360-770-4707 MLS# 530740

627 SHUSHWAP LN., LA CONNER

2202 10TH STREET, ANA

Contemporary 3155 sf, 3 BD, 2.5 BA. Amazing architectural design takes advantage of panoramic views of Similk Bay & the Olympic Mts. Spacious great room with wall of windows. Open kitchen. Master & 1 bdrm on main level. Large usable 1 acre yard.

RV parking. Close to beach.

Margi Houghton 360-202-0041 MLS#560560

5113 MARITIME COURT, ANA

W NE

NE

$198,000

Beautiful, serene 5 acres close to Campbell Lake.

Enjoy southern exposure & wonderful views of Campbell Lake & the pastoral & forested landscape. Gentle sloping property with mature mixed forest & clearing.

Margi Houghton 360-202-0041 MLS#622003 NE

EDENS ROAD, GUEMES

COMMERCIAL

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9012 MOLLY LANE, #106, ANA 2 WEST SHORE DR, GUEMES

11942 NEW MORNING DR., ANA

$859,000

NW Custom 4250 sf home on 1.14 acre lot in the Fidalgo Bay Estates gated community. Sits on top of the ridge with wonderful views of Padilla Bay & the Cascade Mtns. Main level living and open floor concept.

Margi Houghton 360-202-0041 MLS#624244

3802 V AVE, ANA

$198,000

Incredible opportunity to own a beautiful, 10+/acre level lot on the West side of Guemes. Development is nearly complete with the well in place, gently curving driveway, soil analysis for the septic & small clearing. Property is in Open Space Timber designation which offers significant tax savings.

Adjacent 10 acres available.

Margi Houghton 360-202-0041 MLS#620790

$1,150,000

Spectacular Home! 3 bd 4 ba, Open living indoors & out.

Entertainers & Chefs Delight with large sit around wet bar, theatre room & more. High speed internet & dual offices. Fully fenced with amazing views. 4 car garage.

Gina Davis 360-708-7794 MLS#454593

$240,000

Build Your Dream! Pastoral acreage, rolling hillside and dell, pastures & forestland. Abundant wildlife, tranquility. Great location for small farm or horses. Conservation easement protects land from further subdivision.

Margi Houghton 360-202-0041 MLS#627832

NE

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Beautiful home w/excellent floor plan, large kitchen & ample light. Great outdoor living with trex deck, garden areas & privacy on dead-end street.

Community Amenities & Marina. Morrage PossibleJackie Stone 360-661-2247 MLS#627784

ndermere Mortgage Services at (425) 268-7995

57 21

$469,000

Distinctive floor plans at “The Woods at Sunset Cove”. This Cedar plan has 4 bdrm-2.5 ba & 3 car garage. Hardwood floors, upscale kitchen, open living to dining rooms & luxurious main level master. Moments away from Washington Park.

Colleen Craig 360-770-9638 MLS#541567

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$134,950

Great Bays is a condo facility for RV, boat, business, etc.

24ft. wide and 60ft. deep. Units have 14ft. roll up auto door, man door, electric wall heat, security system & Anacortes Sewer available.

Rick Bennett 360-202-2630 MLS#629522

906 7TH STREET, ANA

$259,000

Classic 1920s home, converted to a Central Business District office,1/2 block off Commercial Ave. CBD zoning permits mixed use development. Lot is 3,000 sq.ft. & office building is approx. 1,000 sq. ft.

Small accessory building fronts alley behind parcel.

Cheryl Frazier 360-202-4789 MLS#613828

Why do we have so many listings?

We spoil our clients.

Windermere Real Estate/Anacortes Properties • 3018 Commercial Ave • Anacortes • (360) 293-8008 • (800) 327-5291 Becky Strickland Bill Robillard Breta Malcom Buzz Ely Caroline Baumann

May 9, 2014

360-770-0197 360-770-4707 360-391-0441 360-202-4626 360-202-7327

Catherine Mers Cheryl Frazier Colleen Craig Colleen Sargent Cynthia Aanestad

360-982-6831 360-202-4789 360-770-9638 360-202-2155 360-610-0120

Debbie Macy Duane Holden Gina Davis Jack Dixon Jackie Stone

360-391-2422 360-305-9806 360-708-7794 360-941-5000 360-661-2247

Jessica Notaro Joan Handelmann John Prosser Judy Moore Kathy Rogers

360-202-1441 360-202-4800 360-202-3891 360-770-3515 360-941-4400

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Leigh Zwicker Linda Macy Margi Houghton Nate Scott Paul Necco

360-333-9975 360-708-8284 360-202-0041 360-708-2354 360-770-5989

Paul Weisz 360-391-7281 Sarah Jones Rebecca Chamberlain 360-421-5021 Troy Williams Rick Bennett 360-202-2630 Rita Grant 360-770-8006 Samantha Masaoka 360-421-5021

360-333-2783 360-708-4923

7

Are refis going all-cash, too?

Question: There is a lot of talk regarding the large number of all-cash real estate purchases. What about refinancing? Are homeowners reducing the size of their loans?

Answer: Homeowners are reducing their real estate debt, despite the rise in home values seen in most markets.

The Federal Reserve reports that residential mortgage debt amounted to $9.372 trillion at the end of 2013 – a reduction of more than $1 trillion since 2009.

Given the decline in unemployment, the increase in home values and the availability of low-interest financing, it may seem strange that mortgage totals are down, but actually there is some sense to it.

First, we see more and more homes bought for cash. Some of this is investor money but not all. The National Association of Realtors reports for February 2014 that 35 percent of all existing-home purchases were all-cash sales while 21 percent were made by investors. This also means about 14 percent of all February residential buyers paid cash for their homes.

Second, traditional savings options are generating small returns. For instance, a five-year CD is paying about 1.5 percent at this writing, while that same money used to buy a home is replacing mortgage debt that might cost 4.4 percent. For some buyers it’s attractive to put down more when they look at the alternatives.

Third, more money down can mean avoiding mortgage insurance, a big cost.

Fourth, some borrowers are refinancing to a lower rate, and instead of a cash-out loan where they leave closing with a check they are instead reducing

Q& A

ASK OUR BROKER

By Peter G. Miller

their debt and borrowing less by bringing cash to settlement. This sometimes is called a “cash-in” refinance.

Fifth, many people like the comfort of less debt and, even better, no debt. People who own their homes outright cannot be foreclosed, a calming thought during the mortgage meltdown.

In considering cash and mortgage debt borrowers need to look carefully at their available cash, their ongoing needs and future costs. Money invested in a home may be less liquid than alternative options, a potential problem if there’s a sudden need for cash.

To review mortgage options speak with mortgage lenders, and for budgeting speak with a fee-only financial planner.

75 Serviced Building Lots FOR SALE BY OWNER Ready to build average lots approx. 50 x 100 ft.

Just North of Mount Vernon Bulk Sale for $45,000 Per Lot Direct Sale -

Call 604.734.1300 8

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May 9, 2014

Room-to-Room

HOME ADDITIONS

When considering a home renovation, think outside the box for design inspiration and setting the overall tone.

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ith homeowners staying in their homes longer due to the economy, renovations should focus on usability and personal style.

For those homeowners looking to sell, the market is still very much a buyer’s space, so quality additions that increase value are certainly top of mind. Luckily, there’s no need knock down walls or move plumbing to make an impact - simply start with small, quality updates to pack a dramatic punch for less money. Here are some ways to add quality and comfort within the different spaces of your home:

Entryway

As the first thing visitors see, your front door should always provide a good impression, reflecting the beauty that emanates throughout your home. With doors, matching the exterior and interior creates a flow into outdoor living spaces. Using doors as a part of the overall aesthetic can also allow for some creativity with glass accents or bold color choices. Choose a reliable door manufacturer that offers a wide breadth of finishes and styles using wood, steel and fiberglass.

Living Room

Add decorative touches to your living room with repurposed items found around the house. Fill a decorative pitcher or an old tin watering can with fresh flowers from the garden to add elegance to your coffee table. Wrap assorted globe lighting fixtures or mason jars with wire and hang them in a grouping to display votive candles. For an eclectic and shabby chic feel, turn a vintage drawer on end to use as a bookshelf or bring in an old wooden crate to use as a side table.

May 9, 2014

Kitchen

Rooms throughout

Bathroom

By focusing on a few quality updates, you can add beauty and comfort to your home to be enjoyed for many years or add value in a competitive housing market.

Refreshing your kitchen doesn’t require a major update. Add a new color to existing cabinetry by refinishing or adding a new coat of paint. Would you like to add a glossy shine to the kitchen? Simply apply mesh-back glass tile to fit the dimensions of cabinet door panels. Finish the update with a modern touch by replacing outdated hardware with the many new, stylish options available.

From the master bedroom to the hall entryway, hardwood floors provide the ultimate in beauty and ambiance. Refinishing gives your existing tired, worn out floors an instant upgrade that shines from room to room.

From tiles and countertops to faucets and showerheads, the options are endless for bathroom updates. With wall-hung, stand-alone or pedestal styles, your choices for a new vanity are no exception.

During a renovation, some homeowners begin their project by focusing on other bathroom elements like those mentioned above. But starting with the addition of a new vanity, like one of the many beautiful options from Ronbow, will set the stage for your bathroom and provide a focal point for the other design elements.

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CLASSIFIEDS Alpine Ridge Retirement Apartments in MV is accepting applications for 2 bdrm apts. Income limits apply.

424-9622 for more info.

NEW TODAY 2 bdrm, 1 ba, Burl., W/D hookup, W/S/G pd.

No pets. $790/mo.

360-757-2923

1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals.

Piazza Realty Property Mgmt., Inc. 360-424-RENT (7368) www.prpmrentals.com 2 bdrm Burlington $750, 1st & last $500/dep. Gas heat, shop, carport. 360-770-2137 S-W nice 2 bdrm, garage, applcs., yard, $895. Apt. $685. 206-999-7693

WATERFRONT

Building lot on Skagit River, above the flood plain. Partially wooded in a good area. Excellent view. Ready to build on. No mobile homes. PUD water, power, phone, TV cable, with septic design. Critical area reviews has been completed.

Terms negotiable.

Call George at 360-391-1470

Robinrossrealestate.com

2 bdrm mobile home for rent, $800/mo., 1st, last, $400 damage dep. 360-856-5519.

RV Park, Hamilton. Starts at $275. 360-594-7643 or 360421-0916

10 - May 9, 2014

18484 S Westview Rd., MV 50+Ft Low Bank Lakefront.

3 bdrm, 2 ba, 1775sq., outdoor kitchen, garage w/shop, great deck, fully furnished, sandy beach. $459,950. #622632 Dir: I-5 to College Way exit.

East on College Way to Hwy 9. South on Hwy 9 to W Montborne Rd. Just in front of the Big Lake Bar & Grill. Turn R/downhill to S Westview. Go left to house.

Host: Pam & Dan Baird 360-202-0715 John L Scott-Skagit

WEST MOUNT VERNON FARMHOUSE Open house, Sat. May 10th & Sun. May 11, from 1–4.

17820 Kamb Road.

Beautiful 1910 farmhouse & guest cottage. Kitchen has custom cabinets, granite counter tops, cook top, double oven, & pantry.

Master bdrm has walk in closet, sitting room, & bath.

Large laundry/mud room. 2 more bdrms, 2 bath, office, dining room & living room.

Guest house has bdrm, bath, kitchen, dining & living room. Large two car garage plus work space.

For more information go to

Listing Broker Jones Atterberry

John L. Scott Real Esate Call 360-708-8935 www.jonesatterberry.com

1602 Birch Ct, Mt Vernon

www.skagitvalleyfarmhouse. com (360) 320-9040

2006 Tundra Loop Mount Vernon

FOR SALE BY OWNER Well cared for 3 bdrm, 2 ba rambler. Large covered deck out back as well as a large covered view front deck. Gas fireplace, large master with low maintenance yard. $256,000.

OPEN HOUSE Sat., May 3rd 1 to 4, Sun., May 4th 1 to 4.

Mother's day week-end by appointment only 360-708-1386 Mount Vernon

Priced at $399,999.

PINE CREEK Open House

Nice MV end unit in 1 level 4plex. 2 bdrm, 1 ba, carport.

W/S/G pd. No pets/smoke. $700/mo. $700 dep. Background chk. 610-9860 lv msg Sedro-Woolley, 2 Bdrm, 1 ¾ Ba, 2 car garage, 1050 sq. ft., gas heat/hot water, W/D, extra storage, $860 mo. Contact Piazza Realty Property Mgmt., 360-424-7368.

NEW LISTING Near Edison on Colony Rd. Sweeping views of Olympic Mtns to Lummi Island. $495,000.

Big home, garages for 5 vehicles, shop, green house, on 1.7 acres.

BIG LAKE OPEN Saturday 1-3

Farm House near Bow $320,000.

ROBIN ROSS Experience, Integrity Old School Service Robin436@comcast.net 360-941-0408

6 new homes OPEN for viewing!

2142-2774 sq ft, 1 & 2 level homes. Ramblers have nostep entry! 3-5+ bdrms. 3 car garages. Quality high end finishes. Great room & gas frplc.

Open House Friday, 12:00 – 6:00 Sat. & Sun. 1:00 – 4:00 Go to 3015 Pine Creek Dr. during Open House to view any of the homes! Or call Val Thomas Preview Properties at 360-333-0562 to set up an appt. From I-5, E. on College Way, N (left) on N. 30th, ¼ mi. to Pine Ck.

Our home is in tip top shape. 3 bdrm, office, a first class country kitchen.

Just under 2 acres.

Call Listing Broker Jones Atterberry, 360-708-8935 John L. Scott Real Estate www.jonesatterberry.com

$449,000 Beautiful 2 bdrm+ den overlooking Eaglemont's 16th Green. 10' ceilings w/custom appointments, lg. great rm w/gas fplc, French doors to patio, den w/bookcases.

Great kitchen open to dining rm.

Master bdrm has walk-in closet & 5-pc bath. Private lot w/long driveway on culde-sac. Dir: From E. Division St., south on S. Waugh Rd, left @ Beaver Pond Dr., right @ Birch Ct. Hosted by Dan Hewitt, Preview Properties, Skagit and Whatcom, LLC

1325 Quentin, corner of Hazel. Beautiful 2+ Bdrm, 1 ¾ Ba, on large corner lot, solid oak floors.

Sale by owner. $255,000.

PH. 360-424-5235 Cell 360-303-0087 Open House Sun. 11 to 4 Unique 1+ acre in town with all utilities, secluded, great trees, one of a kind property across from Hillcrest Park. Fixer Up house & land is dividable.

5 min. from everything.

By Owner 360-391-3711

In the Classifieds!

REAL ESTATE WEEKLY RE-Weekly.com

CL A SSIFIEDS Sedro-Woolley 1 bdrm, 1 ba home.

Great lot & shop, $80,000.

Listing Broker Jones Atterberry John L. Scott Real Estate Call 360-708-8935 www.jonesatterberry.com VACANT ACREAGE North of Sedro Woolley.

We have 4 one acre building lots on Thomas Creek Lane. Sensational values.

We have building plans ready for your review.

Listing Broker, Jones Atterberry John L. Scott Real Estate 360-708-8935

FOR RESULTS Call Tim L. Good 360-708-3828 timgoodrealestate.com RSVP Real Estate

For sale: Concrete, WA. 3bd 2ba 1708 sf. built in 2004 on 5 ac. w/open floor plan ceramic tile entry oak cabinets w/center island dining area utility-pantry combo cedar deck w/sunsetter awning property goes to skagit river would make good horse property possible owner financing or trade $180,000.00 call Dann 360-770-2840. crouchdann@yahoo.com

YOU WANT EXPERIENCE, WE HAVE IT! CALL US TODAY Full-time agents 30+yrs combined experience. $9 mil + in sales 2013 Knowledge of the community & market.

More info at: theboonteam.com Charlie & Jeannie Boon 360-708-9645 RE/MAX Territory NW

Samish Island WATERFRONT

10529 Samish Is. Rd. $595,000.

Price reduced!!! Sensational custom one level home on 1.54ac w/access road to beach. 3 bdrm, 3 ba, open floor plan, hardwood floors, two car attached garage plus 1890 sq. ft. detached garage/workshop perfect for RV/boat/equip storage.

Separate guest house with it's own living, dining, bdrm, ba. Circular drive, no hassle with ferries. Just drive onto Samish Island.

MLS#486866 Call Terry Smiley 425-985-9643 Champions Real Estate

Home for sale by owner.

2 bdrm in Concrete city limits. $55,000. City utilities, new carpet, Electric wall heater and woodstove.

45956 Albert St. Call Larry 360-708-4071 or Charlie 206-362-1695

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Catch a bargain everyday in the classifieds!

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May 9, 2014 - 11

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RE-Weekly.com EASY TO USE TOOLS & THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION FOR FINDING LOCAL REAL ESTATE

FIND HUNDREDS OF REAL ESTATE LISTINGS IN SKAGIT, SNOHOMISH, ISLAND AND WHATCOM COUNTIES! 12

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May 9, 2014