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

AUG 5 - 11TWENTY-ELEVENFREE

RealEstateweeklyRESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE

SELLINGOPEN DOOR POLICYPAGE 3

TOP 10 DREAM HOME FEATURESPAGE 5

Q&ALOANS WITHLITTLE DOWNPAGE 6

GREENFEATURESPAGE 7

OPEN HOUSESPAGE 7

EASY WAYS TO BOOST HOME VALUEPAGE 8-9

CLASSIFIEDSPAGE 10-11

INSIDETHIS ISSUE

1611 E. KINCAID STREET, MOUNT VERNON $419,000One-of-a-kind home & property. Designed and built by Henry Klein in 1955, this original-owner home is situated on 1.56 private ACRES in town. One-level living with over 2800sf of original custom craftsmanship. From the 1 ¼ inch tongue & groove clear, vertical grain fi r ceiling to the solid beam construction, the materials in this home could not be replicated

today. Corner master bedroom with ¾ bath; 3 additional bedrooms & a full bath round out the sleeping wing. Spacious formal & informal living areas are designed around a central kitchen, and all look out to the private, park-like yard. Expansive covered patio. Two fi replaces, vast built-in storage. Potential to divide lot into 2 additional building lots. Truly a hidden gem in a private paradise. MLS#258533

Due to demand, builders today are constantly learning about the new and advanced technologies for home construction. Owner-clients want to be assured of living in the healthiest, most durable, least wasteful house possible -- and therefore, building a home from the ground up is the best opportunity to get it right.(cont. on pg. 7)

FEATURED ARTICLE: REQUESTS FOR GREEN FEATURES

Windermere Real Estate1030 E. College WyMount Vernon360.424.4901 • 800.849.7939MeganOBryan.com

Megan O’Bryan(360)708-5817

Brown McMillen Real Estate235 W. Rio Vista Avenue, Burlingtonwww.brownmcmi l l en .com

360.757.60131.800.869.7084

Ron Wortham 661-1500Fritz Inman 661-0147Shelah Inman 661-0145Holly Brown-Hilts 661-5538Phil Hurtig 770-0787

Galen Kindred 770-7083Terri Heyntsen 391-0938Dick Best 770-1491Jan Scally 421-5160Jeff Ingman 202-2859

Tod LeHecka 333-1032Mary Jo Reitsma 770-6013Tim Reichert 391-5587www.brownmcmillen.com

Evening Phone Calls Welcome

BOW HOME... with 36X48 shop. Beautifully remodeled 2640 sf house on 8 acres, gorgeous sunsets & views of Mt. Baker. Impressive property. $599,000. #250045GREAT FIRST TIME BUYER... 3 bedroom, newer electrical service, hot water tank, gas furnace, vinyl fl oor covering. On a large city lot. $132,000. #191135129 ACRES... nicely wooded and great opportunity to buy large acreage at just $3,837 per acre. $475,000. #104177LOCATION, LOCATION... at the end of cul-de-sac, featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and many updates. Open fl oor plan, fenced with a greenhouse, separate shop. Borders school district property with 8 acres of playfi elds. $199,000. #230813

SAMISH ISLAND HOME... 1 ACRE..beautiful setting, drive on Island, 15 minutes to I-5, 20 Spacious living/dining rooms, 3 bdrm, 2 baths, 1800sf. lg shop. $349,500. #242499OUIET STREET... updated home on lg private lot. 2400 sf home lg kitchen w/granite & tile. The private backyard is one of a kind w/lg patio, hot tub, $279,500. #189312BEST BUY IN TOWN... absolutely beautiful! 3268 sf , offi ce, formal living & dining, lovely kitchen w/adjacent family rm. Lg fenced back yard, new deck. On Cul-de-sac $349,500. #186484NO STEPS!!... New 3 br Rambler close to all the action in City of Burlington with nice level access. $148,950. #251447

COUNTRY CLUB RAMBLER... views of 1st green from deck of traditional style home. 3 bdrms, 2.5 baths, 1548 sf, formal dining rm, gas heat, newer roof & nice lot. $247,500. #251125BURLINGTON COUNTRY RAMBLER... Outstanding views from front porch, 3 bdrm, 2 full baths, well built Rambler. Just 4 years old, large kitchen, $274,950. #251248WELL MAINTAINED... Mt Vernon hill home, 3 bdrm, 1.75 baths, partially fi nished basement, in formal living area. All appl incl. Fenced yard, 2 decks $198,500. #211656GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD... in center of Mt. Vernon. Roomy 1984 sf, 3 bdrm, 2 bath Rambler on large lot. New carpet & vinyl installed thruout. $199,500. #89952

Anita Kohl 961-7795Cleaver Sanders 941-3482Dawn Hardman 540-0058DJ Jacobs 941-5279Duane Gish 770-9299Dominic Pettruzzelli 333-5210

George Herner 840-3743Jackie Lindeman 770-9080Karl Morse 395-5405Margie Ernst 708-3198Marlene Deasy 661-6720Megan Daly 206-383-4407

Mike Newman 708-1419Noli Goode 630-6527Paula Margerum 220-0681 Rick Kiesser 770-1195Sandi Hocking 708-1523Sandi Riley 770-8670

Sharon Stokes 661-6164Shaunna Harris 206-715-1623Tim Garrod 206-422-5236Traci Cypher 708-9481 Veronica Lopez 420-0696Jim Lyon Prop. Mgr. 542-2134

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

OPEN

HOU

SE SATURDAY 1-42725 E. Fir St, Mt Vernon #58 & 119SUNDAY 2-44013 M Ave, Anacortes For Deta i ls and d i rect ions,v is i t openhouse.com

SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.

$119,000 #257273• 1 acre • Septic & water • Very private • Owner financing

$254,500 #255395 • Over 2000 ft • Huge deck • Glenhaven amenities • Newer 3 bdrm

$429,500 #126345• Shy 3,000 sf • Huge master suite • 3 car garage • 1+ acre

SOLD$399,500 • 1.2 acres • 4th bdrm above garage• Gourmet kitchen • River rock fpl

$44,500 #255605• 55+ Community • 2 shops • 3 bdrms + den • Family rm

$164,900 #256370• Small town • 4 bedrooms • Lots to offer • Close to river

$349,500 #237970• Traditional 4 bdrm • Over 3660 sq ft • Historical home • Pool & hot tub

$259,500 MLS#239241• 6.6 acres close in • 3 bdrm home • Lovely views • 960 sf shop

$349,900 #187336• 4 bdrms • Custom kitchen • RV parking • 2nd kitchen

REAL ESTATE CLASSES STARTING NOW!

CALL SCOTT 360-540-2121

$292,500 #56859• 3 bdrms, 2.75 bths • Fam Rm + Office/den • Huge Corner Lot

8635 GARDEN OF EDEN, SDW $129,900Cute little 3 bedroom, 1 bath home on the edge of town. 2 acres & lots of room for all the toys or gardens. Home needs some work. Call Karine Anderson at 421-1189 or Lee Ann Dean at 421-3082. #185076

8496 PINELLI RD., SDW $169,900Wonderful 2 bedroom, 2 bath manufactured home on 2.5 private, level acres with 2100 sq.ft., 5 bay shop. Only 10 minutes east of town! Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #161265

511 SHADY LN, MV $179,000 Great price on this Stonebridge Condo; 55+ community. Nice duplex style home; 2 bdrm, 2 bath, gas fireplace & all appliances stay. More info. at www.skagitvalleyhomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #198150

20799 W. JORDAN RD, BRL $185,000Newly remodeled 5 bedroom, 1888 sq.ft. home with a complete new kitchen & new stainless appliances. Located between Burlington & Sedro Woolley on a quiet dead-end street. Call Jamie Yantis at 540-5264. #29155941

725 JOHN LINER RD, SDW $239,9503 bedrooms, 2 full baths in this one level home in immacu-late condition. Air conditioning, just under 1600 sq.ft. 2 car garage, outbuilding & manicure landscaping. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #243055

31086 W. MAIN ST., SDW $278,900Home on 1 acre, fenced & ready for occupancy. 3 bed-rooms, 2.5 baths, large master suite with jacuzzi. Over 1800 sq.ft. 2 car garage, RV parking. Built in 2002. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #172757

7110 STEELHEAD LN, BRL $279,000Lovely 1 level home nestled along the Samish River with 73+/- ft of high-bank riverfront. 4 bedrooms, 2.25 baths. Many upgrades. New exterior paint. Covered patio & gazebo. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #243904

7759 F & S Grade Rd, SDW $295,000Charming home on 7+ acres overlooking the valley. Large upgraded kitchen, formal living & dining rooms & cozy family room. Extra bonus room for guest, MIL or art studio. Call Rita Ingram at 708-8338. #243405

2340 CROSBY DR, MV $299,9004 bedrooms, 3 baths with over 3700 sq.ft. of living space. Western valley & sunset views. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #241764

535 STATE ST, SDW $299,900Great investment opportunity. 2 separate parcels, one with duplex unit & the other offering 3 stand-alone 1 bed/1 bath homes. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #174821

401 WARNER ST., SDW $318,500Beautifully restored Victorian! Built in the 1890’s, restored in 2003. 2400+ SF, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Breathtaking stained glass, garage, shop & lovely grounds. Call Sarah Minton at 770-3076. #200779

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

1519 BRENTWOOD LN, MV $369,500Immaculate custom rambler. Master has walk-in closet, jetted tub & shower. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, den & all appli-ances stay. Low maintenance yard. New Swiss Trax flooring in garage. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #202411

16663 BEAVER MARSH RD., MV $399,950Updated 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 Hansonat 770-8791. #166950

13076 BUCHANAN LN, MV $499,000Award winning certified Built Green! Stunning lake & mountain views from this custom home on 1+ acre. 3 bedrooms, 2.75 baths. Over 3200 sq.ft. Call Elizabeth Miller 420-3607. #218757

3416 LINDSAY PLACE, MV $519,000Custom Craftsman home. 4000+ sq.ft., with gorgeous mas-ter suite & huge kitchen with granite. Outdoor living area on covered deck. Huge finished shop in basement. Call Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #28602

42615 WATERS VIEW CT, CNC $529,0001 level home has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths. 3 car garage & additional 2 car & RV garage. Plus 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 900 SF apt. all on 2.56 acres. 255 ft of Skagit River frontage. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #29061495

8002 UNION RD, SDW $589,000Beautiful 3300+ sq.ft. home with amazing view includes detached shop, pond & garden area all of which sits on 52 acres of land. Privately situated at end of road. Call Traci Gilbertson at 333-3479. #29147848

1231 S. 10TH ST., MV $619,000Completely 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 Jim Glackin at 428-2828. #192233

1045 BLACKBERRY LN., CAMANO ISLAND $975,0002430 SF waterfront home. Large lot located at dead end with outstanding views of the Olympics, Mt. Baker & Sun-sets. 70’ of waterfront. New metal roof, trex decking. Call Traci Gilbertson at 333-3479. #164059

www.WindermereSkagit.com

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

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

STOP!Let us make this easy for you.Go to WindermereSkagit.com for Photos, Open Houses, and Maps for EVERY listing.

REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly August 5, 2011 11

Country Living-Craftsman Style Home 2.56 acres. 1342 sq.ft. 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath3 Car Attached garageDeck, Garden Space, ShedTerritorial View

#247557 $230,000Linda Piazza

(360) 713-3623Preview Properties

Skagit LLC

2 for the price of 1Beautiful country setting, 5miles West of Sedro-Wool-ley on South Skagit Hwy.Income property pays foritself. 2 homes: each 2bdrm, 1 bath, both havecurrent tenants under leas-es. $325,000. Call Karen360-202-8843.

PRICE REDUCEDAGAIN!!!

FOR SALE BY OWNERStonebridge Condo

with View

Quality construction withoak flooring throughout,vaulted ceilings, mastersuite w/walk-in closet andoversize shower; guestroom & bath, den/home of-fice, gas heat, hot waterand fireplace. Kitchen hasspacious pantry, gas range,and built-in microwave,laundry room with utilitysink and cabinets, approx.1368 sq. ft. Private covereddeck, double car garage allon single level, attic stor-age. '55 & Better' commu-nity with clubhouse, groupactivities and walkingpaths. Close to shoppingand medical facilities. Anoutstanding value at$185,000. Call Barbara forpreviewing appointment,360-428-5617.

Price reduced 3 times!Current price now

$399,950.

10813 Wilson Lane, MountVernon. 3 Bedroom homeon 6.72 acres with great lo-cation, sound and moun-tain views.

Downstairs stone masonryfireplaces in kitchen andliving room. Hardwoodfloors in kitchen and bed-rooms. Remainder carpet-ed.

Upstairs loft, bedroom,bathroom and computerspace.

1900 sq. ft. barn, heatedshop, stalls, ample storage.

For more info. 360-391-1295

OPEN HOUSESATURDAY 11-1

17979 Best Road,Mount Vernon

Dir: Hwy 20 W. Left on BestRoad. Home on left. FromSeattle: Exit 221/Lake Mc-Murray. Left on PioneerHwy. Right on Fir Is Rd/itbecomes Best Road. Homeis on right.Panoramic picturesqueviews from this dream lo-cation. This 4,400sf,4BD/2BA has all the ameni-ties you could ask for.800sf fully finished attic,fully finished basement;possibly used as a MIL oryour very own Bed &Breakfast. Close to freewayand historic downtown LaConner. One hour to Seat-tle. Minutes away fromTulip Fields. Come seeyour dream setting!

#224037 $795,000Brett Farrar 360-391-3654

Preview PropertiesSkagit LLC

NEW PRICE!! $229,000.00Located at 202 S. 30th ST.MT.V This 3br 1 3/4ba is ona corner lot, in a well estab-lished neighborhood, main-tained home is move inready! Natural light makesthe kitchen bright and invit-ing. Master bedroomw/walkin closet and skylight over vanity. Two moreoversized bedrooms andstorage galore. Has newerroof, central heating and airsystem. Finished garage iswell insulated. Minutesaway from shopping, play-grounds, and golf course.Please call Sherry @ LakeCavanaugh Realty, 360-391-3891. MLS# 162761

DON'T MISS THIS!ESTATE REDUCTION

$32,600Beautifully maintained 3bdrm, 1 ¾ baths, many re-cent remodels and up-dates. $126,900. 523 N. 4th,Mount Vernon. 360-757-2259

Condo warehouse space.18'x60'. All amenities. Se-curity. Call Rick, 360-319-7359

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.

Now could be the time to sell a new home

and earn a slice of the Real Estate pie.

REALESTATEWEEKLY

Call 360.424.3251 Today!

adservices@ skagitpublishing.comIn print and online goskagit.com

10 August 5, 2011 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly

OPEN HOUSE AUGUST7TH 1-4PM!

Escape to waterfront living!Offered at $1,650,000.Telecommute from Seattle!3 master suites, 4.25 baths,top floor chart room, multi-ple private decks, securegated entry, 5-car garageparking, 2-room art studiowith bath, 90+ feet ofSamish Bay waterfront.4824 G Loop Road, SamishIsland, WA.George Roth, REALTORManaging BrokerColdwell Banker Bain360-707-1431George@HomeTourClub.-comMore pics and informationat HomeTourClub.com!

HOMEOF THE WEEK!

Nookachamps – Big Lake17201 Bulltrout Lane3150 sq. ft. $389,500

4 bedrooms, 3.5 bath-rooms, granite countertops,cherry cabinets, hardwoodand carpet flooring, fullkitchen appliance package.

Agent Jones Atterberry360-708-8935John L. ScottSee online at

www.jonesatterberry.com

18562 VALENTINE ROAD,$399,750

Charming and gorgeousclassic craftsman home ondesirable Pleasant Ridgeoverlooking Dodge Valley.Great location! 1.78 acreswith pasture and territorialviews. 3 bedroom, 1.75bath, 2798 square feet,Built in 1908. Many majorrenovations. Has a wonder-ful historic feel with con-temporary aspects. Recentaddition shows impeccablecraftsmanship. Gorgeousoriginal fir floors, frenchdoors to a brand new andbeautiful deck, spaciouslaundry room, cozy homeoffice. Unique, classickitchen range in charmingeat-in kitchen. Newer insu-lation, wiring, and founda-tion. Large shop/studio onacreage, many fruit trees. Very desirable location. Arare opportunity! Call Don Zimmer at Pre-view Realty: 360.848.8900

Spectacular ViewsBuild Your Dream Home

6 - 20 acre parcelsEast of Sedro-Woolley$110,000 eachWater share for each parcelOwner termsPrivate areaClose to natureDeer and Elk aboundNicely treed acreageGreat for hiking, horsebackriding or motorcycle riding

Midway Realty360-659-3644

Prof. Office Space, approx.1000+ sq. ft. on Riverside Dr.,MV. Move in ready, availablenow. 360-595-2611

MV. RV space. $310. $50dep. Incl. W/S/G. Back-ground check. 360-595-2611

Move in Special. Big Lakewaterview RV space. $300.No dogs. (206) 778-8147

Weekly rates start $260.SPECIAL - 4 wks., $790.

WHISPERING FIRS MOTELAlger 724-3477

Roommate to share verynice quiet secluded home onFir Island, all utilities incl. ex-cept phone. 5 min. from I-5.Rent negot. (360) 202-9460

MV 2 bdrm, 2 ba, in 4-plex,carport. $800 + $800 dep.MV nice 2 bdrm, 1 ba, car-port, $700 + $700 dep.W/S/G pd. W/D hookups. Nosmoke/pets. Backgroundchk. 610-9860, 9am-5pm

MV nice 2 bdrm, 1 ¾ ba,garage, gas heat. W/S/G pd.No pets/smoke. $850/mo. +$800 dep. Background chk.360-610-9860 9am - 5pm

MV townhouse 2 bdrm, 2 ba,covered patio, garage. Nosmoke/pets, $850/mo. 360-856-4172 or 360-708-0316

MV 319 S. 20th, 4-plex, 2bdrm, 1 ba, new carpet, W/D,gas heat, end unit, garage,$800/mo. $500/dep. 360-424-6974

MV 1700 Cleveland Ave., 1Bdrm plus bonus room, newpaint & carpet, W/S/G pd.,$650 + dep. No pets/smoke.(206) 321-8953

DUPLEXES2 bdrm, 2 ba, S.W., $795.2 bdrm, 2 ba, S.W., $895.

3 bdrm, 2 ba, S.W., $1025.3 bdrm, 2 ba, Burl. $1045.

www.skagitrentals.comRemax Valley Homes

360-424-3198

CONCRETE 2 bdrm, W/D,carport, W/S/G/Gas included.$675 + dep. (360) 293-4553

BURL. 3 BDRM 1,300 sq. ft.$985/mo. Incl. W/S/G W/D,no pets/smoke 360-202-5401

BAKER MTN VIEWBeautiful 2 bdrm luxury dé-cor, all new, private, quietsetting. Multiple floor plans.W/S/G incl. Only $825,$875, $925/mo. Call 206-409-9317

2 bdrm., 1 ba., S.W. W/S/Gpd. Gas heat. $700 + $500dep. No pets. 360-421-2416

2 bdrm, great location, 700Talcott, S.W., All appliances,No smoke/pets. $695. 360-840-5728

RENTALSHouses & Apartments.

See our listings atwww.skagitrentals.comRemax Property Mgmt.

823 N. 4th, Mount Vernon360-424-3198

MV 3 bdrm, 1 ba, single cargarage, remodeled, $1000/mo., 1st & $800/dep. Nopets/smoke. 360-293-3603

MV Hill, 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba, familyrm., $1,250/mo. The RentLady, 360-540-3334.

HOUSES3 bdrm, 2 ba, S.W., $845.3 bdrm, 1 ba, M.V., $1100.3 bdrm, 2 ba, S.W. $1200.

www.skagitrentals.comRemax Valley Homes

360-424-3198

Burl. 2 bdrm, 1 ba, lrg. yard,no smoke/pets. $1150/mo.$1000/dep. 206-697-9226

1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals.Piazza Realty Property

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

Spacious 2 & 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba,WD, W/S/G/cable pd.

$775/$875. No pets. 1825E. Division MV. 428-8980

S.W. Newer 2 bdrm, 1 ½ ba,with garage, W/D hookup.$850/mo. No dogs. Call Markat 360-708-2694.

Now accepting applica-tions, affordable 1 bdrm,senior/disabled housing,must be income qualified.Evergreen Manor, Con-crete. Call 360-853-8885.

NO HIDDEN FEES!Fairhaven Manor 757-2149

Norris Place 757-30601, 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts. Afford-able. Section 8 okay.

MV studio apt. for rent$550/mo. includes utils. Quietneighborhood, no smoke/pets. 360-333-1429.

La Conner 2 Bdrm, 2 Ba,covered parking, porch, gar-den. Walk to post office, gro-cery, waterfront. G incl. Avail.June 11th. $900/mo. Avail.9/1. 921 S. 4th St. 840-4335

Large studio on busline.Great MV location.

$550-$700 360-420-0606

HARBORVIEW APTSin Anacortes. 2 bdrm.Income limits apply.Affordable housing.Call 360-299-0916

Concrete 2 bdrm, acrossfrom park, all applcs. incl.W/D, $675. 360-770-7470

Apartments for Rent:All utilities paid includingpower and cable TV. 24 hr.on-site laundry, close to col-lege. Call (360)424-0221.

2 Bdrm, MV, W/S/G pd.College Way & 19th.

$705/mo. 360-424-6757

2 Bdrm, 315 W. Woodworth,S-W. $700 + dep. W/Dhookups, no pets/smoking.W/S/G pd. 360-755-1362

1ST MO. FREE! 1, 2 & 3bdrm, MV, near college, on-site laundry, reserved park-ing. W/S/G pd. Qualify today!Move in tomorrow! 428-3887

1 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts2 x 1 ½ Town homes

Garages / Storage Avail.Complete Appliance Pkgs

Sport Courts / PlaygroundsPet Friendly

MOVE-IN SPECIALCall Today! 360-856-4803

Rent today, take the mon-ey and play. Move in andreceive a $250 VISA cardfor all qualified appli-cants. Call for details onour Burington & Oak Har-bor 1 & 2 Bdrm apts.,W/S/G pd., no pets. 360-708-3427

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly august 5, 2011 9

wORk On the yaRD an appealing lawn is still a great way to catch a prospective buyer’s eye. When a home boasts a lush lawn and well-manicured trees, it’s hard to ignore that For sale sign out front. If landscaping has proven an achilles’ heel in the past, make an effort to take better care of your property in the months ahead. It doesn’t take long for even the most neglected lawn to rebound from disrepair. By the time you feel confident to put that for sale sign out front, you might just be putting it up in a lush lawn no buyer can resist.

UPGRaDe aPPlIanCeSProspective buyers won’t be thrilled if they walk into a home and see outdated appliances. some might even feel older appliances indicate a homeowner who cared little about appear-ances and might begin to wonder if there are any additional areas that might have been neglected around the house. stainless steel appliances in the kitchen and even new fixtures in the bathroom are aesthetically appealing and tend to excite buyers. Homeowners who aren’t immediately putting their property up for sale can gradually upgrade their appliances to lessen some of the financial toll such purchases take.

RePlaCe the CaRPeta clean carpet might make a world of differ-ence to a home’s inhabitants, but a new carpet will be more appealing to prospective buyers. Choose a neutral-toned carpet that will boast a more universal appeal.

PaInt the hOMea fresh coat of paint or new siding is always attractive to prospective buyers. If your home hasn’t had a new coat of paint in awhile that might make buyers feel the home is musty or old. Many buyers judge a book by its cover, and sellers want their home’s exterior to be as attractive as possible. Homeowners can also paint rooms inside the home to give it a fresh and welcoming feel.

Clean UP aROUnD the hOUSea cluttered house will almost certainly repel buyers. Buyers want a home that’s roomy and well kept, but clutter creates the opposite impression. Organize the closets to make them appear more roomy and clean up any areas that have become cluttered -- consider tempo-rarily renting a storage unit to house excess stuff from closets. Basements or utility closets might be handy for storage, but they should be open and clean before hosting an open house. the less clutter a home has, the more spacious it will appear and the more money sellers can likely demand for the home.

STAT

6.1%BUyInG BOOM

Increase in single-family home sales for 2011, as projected by the National association of Home Builders. FyI: the National association of Realtors expects existing home sales to rise 5 to 10 percent this year.

8 august 5, 2011 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Easy ways to

boosthomE valuE

though the housing market might not be booming, there are still buyers out there looking for a place to call their own. Some potential sellers might prefer a patient approach to sell-ing their homes, choosing to do so when the market rebounds and homes regain some of their lost value. Other sellers might not have a choice and must make due with selling in a lack-luster market.

Regardless of which category you’re in, there are easy ways to boost your home’s value. Making minor changes to a home can add to your asking price, whether you’re putting your home on the market this week or waiting for the market to rebound. the following tasks might not take much effort, but they pay dividends.

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly august 5, 2011 7

OPen hOUSeS & ShOwCaSeS

why COnCRete?this advanced technology

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

“the benefits are extensive,”

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

as importantly, the quality of life continues long after construction is completed, he continued. as time goes on within “the most technologically advanced walls”,

your energy bills could drop by as much as 70 percent.

“this type of concrete building envelope delivers twice the efficiency compared to stick frame walls -- and with no wood rot and mould it delivers none of the related toxicity. Concrete walls are up to three times more sound resistant; up to four times more

fire resistant; nine times stronger; and far more resistant to thermal bridging where outside cold seeps in to cause uncomfortable cold spots, drafts, and mustiness.”

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

BUILDERS EXPECT TO HEAR REQUESTS FOR GREEN FEATURES (cont. from front cover)

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

2 bedroom plus den/offi ce. Nice open fl oor plan. 2 baths-mst, sep, tub & shower. 55+ park w/rec center, pond, green belt areas + RV park. View of pond. Storage bldg w/power. New roof. Lg covered deck. Covered pkg. for 2+ cars. Liv rm, din. rm, has vaulted ceilings.Directions: E. on E. College Way, R. on 18th St. L. on Fir- L into Park Village ) follow signs)

2725 E. Fir St. #119, Mount Vernon $32,500SATURDAY, AUGUST 6TH 1-4 P.M.

North Homes Realty Inc.SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.

360.424.2100 • www.century21northhomes.com

2 bedrooms + TV area off kitchen- ample storage + Lg island bar. 2 baths-mst bath has jetted tub. Lg covered deck, hot tub + storage shed is included. 1400+sf, large liv rm. overlooks green belt area + home backs up to large green belt areaDirections: E. on E. College Way, R. on 18th St. L. on Fir- L into Park Village ) follow signs)Fir- L into Park Village ) follow signs)

2725 E. Fir St. #58, Mount Vernon $32,500SATURDAY, AUGUST 6TH 1-4 P.M.

Jackie Lindeman360-770-9080

3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernonwww.skagittraditionrealty.com

360.424.0300 or 360.853.8888

Beautifully appointed, custom home offers lots of light, amazing views & unique park like approach. 4 bedrooms, formal living & dining rooms, vaulted ceilings & large kitchen w/stunning view. Daylight basement offers kitchenette & offi ce/library; could be a separate living area for guests. Dock, boat launch & 75 ft. of Lake McMurray waterfront. MLS#236420DIRECTIONS: From I-5 exit 221 (Conway), drive East on Highway 534.

Right on Hwy 9 (approx. 1 mile). On lake side.

23191 State Route 9, Lake McMurray $525,000SUNDAY, AUGUST 7TH 1-4 P.M.

Beautifully maintained home shows pride of ownership both with interior work and outside landscaping. One of larger lots in Division V. 3 bedrooms, 2.25 baths, double garage, lovely garden area & separate fenced area that works well as dog run and/or barbecue site. MLS#246070

5241 Razor Peak Dr, Mount Vernon $165,000

OPEN HOUSENEW PRICE

Ron Proctor (360) 333-0303

Danya Wolf(360) 708-8294

6 august 5, 2011 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

lOanS wIthlIttle DOwnQUeStIOn: My broker says now is the time to buy real

estate because prices are low, mortgage rates are down, and it will soon be difficult to finance a property with less than 20 percent down. Why will it become hard to get loans with little down?

anSweR: there’s been considerable confusion about this, so let’s try to straighten it

out.Under the Dodd-Frank Wall

street Reform and Consumer Protection act lenders are allowed to make whatever mortgages they like. However, if they make mortgages with

certain characteristics - say, with fully documented loan applications and points and fees equal to no more than 3 percent of the loan amount - they then get certain benefits such as less liability and no need to set aside 5 percent of the loan amount in a reserve fund.

Dodd-Frank also says that loans within the “safe harbor” created to protect lenders from liability must have 20 percent down. But - and here’s the part you don’t hear too much about - there are huge exceptions. For instance, the 20-percent rule does not apply to FHa or Va financing, conventional loans sold to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac or loans that lenders keep in portfolio.

the question is this: Who would benefit if mortgages with little money down were increasingly unavailable? Not sellers. Fewer sales would mean lower prices. Not lenders. they would originate fewer loans and lose

substantial business. Not servicers. they would have less to manage on behalf of mortgage investors. Not real estate brokers. they would have fewer homes to sell. Not states and local communities. With fewer real estate transactions their tax collections would plummet.

there’s now an effort to raise the FHa down payment from 3.5 percent to 5 percent and exchange Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac for institutions from the private sector. But even if we make changes, borrowers will still want loans with little down, and, as a matter of self-interest lenders, brokers and government will still want to make sure that such financing is available with far less than 20 percent down.

(c) CtW Features

Q&A aSk OUR BROkeRBy Peter G. Miller

BUILDERS EXPECT TO HEAR REQUESTS FOR GREEN FEATURES (cont. from front cover)

AMERICAN DREAM REAL ESTATE SERVICES, INC.

“Fulfi lling Northwest Family Dreams”Anacortes Offi ce

1202 Commercial Ave Anacortes, WA360-588-1515 • adrhomes.net

Mount Vernon Offi ce2788 E College Way Mount Vernon, WA

360-416-6500 • adrskagit.com

www.adrhomes.netLike American Dream Real Estate Mount Vernon

Samish Island Home#217345 • $799,000

Beautiful Custom Home#251842 • $459,000

Industrial Building#217864 • $2,650

Business Opportunity!#217607 • $700,000

Gorgeous 2 story home custom built on 2 acres on Samish Island. This home 3400+sqft home features 3brm 2.5bth and was designed for entertaining. Open fl oor plan with gourmet kitchen & huge living space overlook Padilla bay, Olympic Mountains, and features cement counters and rock fi replace.

Eaglemont Golf Course community. Open, bright, and spacious. 3,121 sf, 3 car gar, high-end. Hrdwd fl oors, extensive millwork, chef’s kitchen w/granite slab, custom cabinets, top of the line appliances. Formal din and liv rooms, master BD w/tiled 5 piece mstr BA. 1- 2 year lease also available.

For Lease- 6600sqft free standing Prime Light Industrial building. Property is just of I-5 at Anderson Rd. Approx. 2200 sqft feet of A/C fi nished offi ce, storage & bath. Wired for phone system and Internet service, T-1 available also. Ware house features 8 roll up doors (4 drive through) and 1 dock high door as well as offi ce space and rest room. Ample parking and great location!

1 acre of fl at paved, security fenced & gated yard with a 4900 sqft Shop building with offi ces in the city limits with water and sewer connected. Shop features roll up doors propane heat and high ceilings, 2 main fl oor offi ces, BA upper level with kitchen 3rd offi ce and storage. All this right off I-5 and Highway 99. This is a rare fi nd. For sale or lease at $4000/month + NNN.

Historical Home#212423 • $439,900

Beautiful slice of Skagit history right here! Working nursery mini-farm tucked deep into the fertile fi elds of Skagit Valley. Built 1896, this 3 bdrm 2 bth home is still sound as can be, has hardwood Fir fl ooring, T & G pine ceilings. Everything has been upgraded now.

Custom Quality Rambler#220759 • $349,900

3 brm + offi ce 1.75 bth. Large cooks kitchen w/ Viking dual fuel range, granite counters, 2nd oven, whisper quiet D/W & 2 skylts. Main living features custom hickory hardwood fl ooring, crown moldings, gas F/P w/TV alcove, plus another lrg family sunroom. 3 car garage+ fenced RV parking. Energy effi cient. Hot tub, fi re pit, private yard!

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.

NORTH PUGET SOUND ASSOCIATION of REALTORS®

525 East College Way, Suite J Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Tel. (360) 416-4902 www.npsar.com

What is a QR Code & How Do I Use It?

More and more, you will begin to see these strange little graphics on print advertising, sales flyers and on signs for Homes for Sale by REALTORS® in your neighborhood. You may already know how to use them, or you’ve been curious.

“QR codes (quick response codes) is a type of 2D bar code that may be decoded using your smartphone with a QR

code reader. There are two main things that you have to have when you deal with QR codes:

1. A mobile phone with a camera and Internet connectivity 2. A QR code reader (free downloads available at iTunes, and more)

After you have your reader installed, fire up the application and snap a picture of the QR code. Make sure that your hand is steady and that you are able to include the whole code into the picture.

Depending on your software, it may take some five to thirty seconds for the application to resolve the link for you. That is , to decode the information written behind the code. If it is a URL, the QR code reader will open your browser and let you surf the mobile site the code links to.” (beQRrious.com)

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly august 5, 2011 5

DREAMHOME

FEATURES

Curb appeal. Home exterior, driveway, and landscaping must attract admiring attention.

Concrete and natural stone, rather than wood framing and brick.These homes are not only beautiful, they are stronger, more sound resistant, and far more energy effi cient than wood frames and brick.

Maximum energy effi cient throughout from top to bottom.

Solar panels in the roof to generate a personal energy source.

A large, designer kitchen with natural stone countertops and futuristic appliances, cabinetry and waterworks.

Natural hardwood fl ooring like Brazilian cherry and sustainable bamboo.

A sunroom, a front porch, and a backyard fi nished patio.

Vessel sinks, or freestanding bowls above the bathroom countertop, accompanied by wall-mounted faucets.

Bedroom walk out or balcony.

Designer bathtubs and walk-in shower with marble tile,a seating bench and rainfall showerhead.

1 6

78

910

2

345

If you were given a chance to design a dream home,what features would you choose fi rst? Take a look at the

most popular wish list in 2011

Source: Nudura

10tOP

4 august 5, 2011 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

look Seriously and Be Prepared. With generally busier lives, buyers who visit open houses nowadays are more serious about making a purchase rather than just being voyeurs, says al Becker, marketing director for Jack Conway and Co. Realtors in the Boston area. Greco agrees, “People aren’t coming for the cookies or coffee. they want information.”

It’s also essential for the real estate salesperson hosting an open house to be well-informed. linda Black, associate manager and branch training director of Coldwell Banker in Marina Del Rey, Calif., provides a printout of comparable area open houses. Real estate marketer Becker urges salespeople to be prepared to field questions about the neighborhood and house rather than just babysit it or work on a laptop.

Golden agrees, citing a list of do’s and don’ts that can guide homeowners about what they should expect of anyone they hire:

• Don’t follow people around; it makes them uncomfortable and they tend to avoid staying.

• Do share a few pertinent facts about the house. tell visitors to walk around and follow up by asking if they have questions;

• Do make sure the house and lawn are in the great shape.

• Do make yourself aware of all neighborhood listings for comparison.

Increase the Odds with Bigger Bait and Volume. the odds of improving attendance and getting a contract can be improved with newer methods:

Interactive mingling. Create an interactive environment to help a space come alive. the Ritz-Carlton Residences at la life, a condo in downtown los angeles, has used pop-up art galleries, live-art installations and musical performances, says elizabeth lascaze, who helped orchestrate them.

Cohesive staging. staging remains important to get a listing ready to view, but besides cleared countertops, a unified design theme and palette improve the odds of a sale, says shanna Middleton, an agent in Cary, N.C.

Multiple open houses. to attract buyers and make it easier for them to look at more homes over a weekend, a group of colleagues, several area companies or real estate associations now organize neighborhood-, city- or statewide open houses. “It draws more attention to the homes - and hopefully more traffic,” Golden says. this spring Jack Conway and Co. Realtors’ 42 residential offices hosted more than 300 open houses one weekend. Michael saunders & Co. has piggybacked its open houses onto ones organized by the Florida association.

When the stars align, sales contracts may materialize - and quickly. Becker attributes at least two sales contracts to his firm’s recent open-house weekend. “One sold five minutes after the open house began,” he says.

(c) CtW Features

Record-low interest rates and record-low housing prices are renewing interest in the fl oundering 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.

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

RealEstateweekly

Call 360.416.2180 Today!

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

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly august 5, 2011 3

By Barbara BallingerCtW FeatURes

Many view open houses as essential to help promote a listing, attract buyers and appease sellers, many of whom still consider open houses critical to a well-conceived marketing plan. “they give buyers an opportunity to see a lot of inventory and compare similarly-priced properties and neighborhoods,” says Barb st. amant, of Harry Norman, Realtors in atlanta.

But others are less certain they generate sales and consider them to be time consuming, costly and a way mostly to bring in nosy neighbors

or those looking for decorating tips or free food. “Homes rarely sell as a result of an open house,” says salesman Bill Golden with Re/MaX Metro atlanta. yet, he adds, “you never know.”

But one thing is certain. today’s open houses are a different breed than those of yesteryear, due to buyers’ increased use of the Internet, which has helped educate them in advance of looking about pricing and values. Following are tips for homeowners and real estate pros to make an open house as effective as possible for all involved:

Use the Internet. Because of the proliferation

of listings, virtual tours and subsequent sale prices posted on the web, more potential buyers start their search by researching possibilities online rather than when they cross an open-house threshold. Doing so saves them time to weed out possibilities, says Ria scoma, an associate with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Delmar, Calif. It’s therefore critical for salespeople and brokers to have an online presence with realistically listed prices and information updated regularly, adds karen Greco, an agent with Michael saunders & Co. in sarasota, Fla. (continued on next page.)

SellInGthe New Open-Door Policy

Forget the nosy neighbors on the hunt for freshly baked cookies. today’s open houses have one goal: attRaCtING BUyeRs

2 august 5, 2011 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

taBle of COntentSSelling - Open Door Policy Pg. 3

Top 10 Dream Home Features Pg. 5

Q&A - Loans with Little Down Pg. 6

Builders Expect Green Features Pg. 7

Open Houses & Showcases Pg. 7

Ways to Boost Home Value Pg. 8-9

Classifi eds Pg. 10-11

To advertise in

or other Skagit Publishing publications, Call 360.416.2180 or e-mail ads@skagitads.com

View this publication online at www.goskagit.com/reweekly©2011 by Skagit Publishing | All rights reserved.

All real estate advertised in Real Estate Weekly is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin,

or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimi-nation.” 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.

RealEstateweekly

For further information call HUD Toll Free at 1-800-669-9777.

All Houses subject to prior chang-es 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 respon-sible for typographical or production errors or the accuracy of information provided by advertisers.

SKAGIT PUBLISHING

DReaM hOMe FeatUReS10tOP

Real estate weekly content sponsored by:whidbey Island Bank

www.SkagitValleyRealEstate.com320 S Burlington Blvd • Burlington(360) 755-9494 • (800) 775-0153

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

Wilma LouiaOwner

661-1631

Mount Vernon $229,000Classic 4 bdrm/1.75 bath home. Well taken care of, 2004 SF. Oak hardwood fl oor, new kitchen. And tasteful master suite. New insulated windows and great. MV hill location. MLS#219520

Call Lisa, 391-2232

Mount Vernon $259,3501761 SF single family rambler. 3 BR, 2 baths. Large rooms and wide hallways. 5 pc master bath, oversized tub and walk-in closet. Attached garage with taller than average doors. Fully fenced yard with plenty of space. Built with energy effi ciency in mind, move in ready. MLS#257812

Call Amber, (360) 969-4030

Clear Lake $215,500Charming 1912, 3 bedroom bungalow. 1+ acre of a beautifully landscaped corner lot. Partial Lake and Cascade Mountain views in the historic com-munity of Clear Lake. Original wood wainscoating, dining & living rooms. Large family kitchen. 2 detached garages. MLS #221106

Call Pete, 708-6500

Sedro-Woolley $199,9503 bedroom, 1.5 bath traditional. Home, 1574 sq. ft. of living space +. Pull basement with 2. Bonus rooms. Wood fl ooring, Many built-ins. Roomy, fenced backyard. Detached. Two car garage. MLS #257235

Call Debbie, 708-8780

IvanaWood

770-3550

John & Annette Howe

770-5237

RonVan Pelt333-1045

ElizabethDetillion708-8800

DebbieAllen

708-8780

MichelleMitzel

630-4423

JimStransky708-1681

KirkCampbell770-7470

Dan SoriaProperty Mgr.

348-6655

StephanieHenry

661-6097

Charlie & Jeannie Boon

708-9645

MikeWelling540-1341

RacquelMcDermott

420-1830

Lisa Davies

391-2232

Pete McDougalBroker

708-6500

Mount Vernon $289,000Beautiful remolded Hilltop Rambler. Shy 1900 sq. ft. 3 BR + offi ce/den, 2 baths. Open fl oor plan, elegant tile fl ooring. Granite counters, new SS Appliances. New Hardi-plank siding, new ext. = int. paint. On .30 acre – fenced, air conditioning. MLS#255568

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

204 E Spruce, Mount Vernon $199,950Mount Vernon Historic Neighborhood. Beautiful Craftsman Style home. Updated & move in ready. Lg kitchen, updated appl. New windows, vinyl siding, gutters. Updated fl ooring including tile & laminate. Walking distance to schools, businesses & bus line. MLS#236901 Directions: From Riverside Drive, East on Spruce. Home on South side.

Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

Angie Sullivan391-4108

OPEN HOUSE: Sat 1-3PM

Aug 6

Mount Vernon $228,8002,182 sq. ft, 4 bedroom, 2 bath home on corner lot. Easy I-5 access. Low maintenance yard, fully fenced backyard. New carpet, freshly painted. Owner fi nancing available. MLS#252997

Call Wilma, 661-1631

Sedro-Woolley $144,900Beautiful ground-fl oor condo. 2 BD, 2 BA. Patio & deck backs to greenbelt. Handicap accessible. Jetted tub, lots of storage. Attached garage. MLS #220403

Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

Stanwood $295,000This property is a MUST SEE!! Mostly fl at w/ some gentle slope. Located on the far north end of 44th Ave, off 300th. Large pond on the property, w/ lots of building locations. There is a gravel road through the property. May consider owner fi nanc-ing with a large down. MLS# 157771

Call Kirk, 770-7470

Alger $339,9002005 Private Alger Home. 1 Minute From Freeway for Commuters. 2002 Sq. Ft, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath. Stream running through property. Propane, heat, PUD water, security System. Vaulted ceilings, high tech cable. MLS#257174

Call Jim, 708-1681

Amber Partridge de Soria969-4030

DRASTICALLY REDUCED

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

PRICE REDUCED