real estate weekly | september 23, 2011

SEPT 23-SEPT 29TWENTY-ELEVENFREE

RealEstateweeklyRESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE

HOME OWNERSHIPPRIORITIZING THE PURCHASEPAGE 3

LUXURY LIVINGPAGE 4

MOVINGMAKING WORKMOVES WORKPAGE 6

Q&AVALUES DOWN,TAXES UP?PAGE 7

WEATHERALERTPAGE 8

FURTHER INCENTIVEPAGE 9

CLASSIFIEDSPAGE 10-11

INSIDETHIS ISSUE

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

325 ROSE COURT, MOUNT VERNON $399,900Elegance, character & charm describes this immaculate Tudor style residence in Hilltop. Grand vaulted entry with open stairway to 2nd level. Warm wood details delight the senses & gleaming oak fl ows gracefully throughout the entry & great room. Lower level bedroom/offi ce, formal living/dining with brick wood-burning fi replace & fabulous kitchen with tons of storage, walk-in pantry & eating bar; open to a fantastic gathering area with river-rock fi replace. True master suite tucked away from guest quarters. Garage with offi ce & shop area! MLS# 253338

LUXURY LIVING Think the housing market has slowed to a crawl? Not in the luxury market, where business is booming, cash buyers are snatching up great deals and luxury homes are being sold for much less than the asking price. (cont. on pg. 4)

FEATURED ARTICLE:

Windermere Real Estate1030 E. College WyMount Vernon360.424.4901 • 800.849.7939www.ElizabethMiller.net

Agent:Elizabeth Miller, (360)420-3607

2 september 23, 2011 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

TaBle of ConTenTsHomeownership Pg. 3

Luxury Living Pg. 4

Moving: Making work moves work Pg. 6

Q&A: Values down, taxes up? Pg. 7

Weather Alert Pg. 8

Further Incentive Pg. 9

Classifi eds Pg. 10-11

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or other Skagit Publishing publications, Call 360.416.2180 or e-mail [email protected]

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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

IvanaWood

770-3550

RonVan Pelt333-1045

ElizabethDetillion708-8800

DebbieAllen

708-8780

MichelleMitzel

630-4423

JimStransky708-1681

KirkCampbell770-7470

DanSoria

348-6655

StephanieHenry

661-6097

Charlie & Jeannie Boon

708-9645

MikeWelling540-1341

RacquelMcDermott

420-1830

Lisa Davies

391-2232

Pete McDougalBroker

708-6500

Amber Soria

969-4030

Mount Vernon $148,000Built 2006, Approx. 1580 Sq. Ft. Nice open fl oor plan, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, Large master suite.Fully fenced backyard, 2 car garage. MLS#274185

Call Ivana, 770-3550

Sedro-Woolley $140,0004 bedrooms, 2 full baths. Only 5 years old! Lovely mountain views. Fully fenced backyard. 2-car garage. All appliances included. MLS#173308

Call Debbie, 708-8780

Alger $329,5002005 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

Mount Vernon $379,9501990 SF Rambler in Nookachamp Hills. 3 BR, 2.5 baths, Hardwood, carpet & tile fl oors, Slab granite, tile backsplash, & several other high end fi nishes. Great room w/ a 2-sided FP, Lg kitchen perfect for a chef & large sized breakfast nook! Seller will pay up to 3% buyers closing costs. MLS#29154892

Call Michelle, 630-4423

Bayview $470,000Beautiful newer home on shy 5 acres in Bayview area. 3 BR, 2.5 Baths, 2897 SF, Extensive use of Travertine Tile & granite. Master BR on main fl oor w/ FP, Kit. w/island, eating bar & pantry, 2-car at-tached gar + Lg 2 bay shop/garage. MLS#160988

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

Sedro Woolley $150,000Beautiful 4.29 acres with private well, Skagit County approved septic. Design for 4 bedroom home is ready for your dream home! Great Loca-tion! MLS#202405

Call Pete, 708-6500

REDUCED

963 Hillcrest Dr., Burlington $379,000Burlington Hill home w/ Views to the East & South. Gourmet Kit. w/ Cherry Cabinets & Granite Counters, Hdwd. Floors, Gas FP, Lg Master BR w/ Sitting Area & Bath, Secure 2-Car Garage. MLS#115774. DIR: I-5 EXIT 230, EAST ON HWY 20, LEFT ON SKAGIT ST., LEFT ON HILLCREST DR. TO HOME ON LEFT.

Call Ron, (360) 333-1045

OPEN HOUSE: Sat 1-3PMSept. 24

Burlington $449,0004+ Acres w/2500 Sq Ft Home, 4 Bdrm, 2.5 Baths w/Full BA off Master, Formal Dining & Living Rooms. Attached 2-Car Garage, 1250 Sq Ft Heated Shop/Garage. MLS#50618

Call Wilma, 661-1631

Sedro Woolley $92,500Beautifully maintained triple wide. SW fi nest 55+ Senior Park with security gate. Approx 2000 sq ft with open fl oor plan, 2 bdrms, 2 baths, vaulted ceilings, built-in china hutch. Lots of storage. Fenced landscaped backyard , 2 decks for enter-taining. MLS#228322


Mount Vernon Historic Neighborhood $199,950Beautiful Craftsman Style home. Completely updated & move in ready. Large kitchen, updated appliances, New windows, vinyl siding, gutters. Updated fl ooring throughout, including tile & laminate. Great walkability to schools, businesses & bus line. MLS#236901

Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

REDUCED

REDUCED

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly september 23, 2011 3

The economy may be in hold-ing pattern, but

more Americans are aiming to own their home in the future

If you don’t cur-rently own a home, odds are owning one in the future is one of your top financial priorities.

According to the National Association of Realtors’ 2011 National Housing Pulse Survey, 72 percent of renters said owning is a top priority for their future, up from 63 percent in 2010. The annual survey measures how affordable-housing

issues affect consum-ers; the 2011 survey polled of 1,250 U.S. adults.

While nearly two-thirds of Americans surveyed say now is a good time to buy a home, more than three-quarters (77 percent) of renters said they would be less likely to buy a home if they were required to put down a 20-percent down payment on the home. The 20-per-cent requirement would have been an impediment to many who currently own their home, too. More than half (51 percent)

of self-described “working class” owners and younger non-college grads (also 51 percent), African Americans (57 percent), and Hispanics (50 per-cent) say a 20-per-cent required down payment would have prevented them from buying.

Being able to af-ford a down pay-ment and closing costs have consis-tently been cited in Pulse surveys over the past eight years as top obstacles to owning; 82 percent of respondents cited these as the top ob-stacle, followed by

having confidence in one’s job security. Still, seven in 10 Americans agreed that buying a home is a good financial decision.

Regarding the mortgage-interest deduction - one of the most well-known perks of owner-ship - two-thirds of Americans oppose eliminating the tax benefit, and 73 percent eliminating it would have a nega-tive impact on the housing market, in addition to the over-all economy.

(c) CTW Features

HomeownersH ipPrioritizing the purchase

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

IvanaWood

770-3550

RonVan Pelt333-1045

ElizabethDetillion708-8800

DebbieAllen

708-8780

MichelleMitzel

630-4423

JimStransky708-1681

KirkCampbell770-7470

DanSoria

348-6655

StephanieHenry

661-6097

Charlie & Jeannie Boon

708-9645

MikeWelling540-1341

RacquelMcDermott

420-1830

Lisa Davies

391-2232

Pete McDougalBroker

708-6500

Amber Soria

969-4030

Mount Vernon $148,000Built 2006, Approx. 1580 Sq. Ft. Nice open fl oor plan, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, Large master suite.Fully fenced backyard, 2 car garage. MLS#274185

Call Ivana, 770-3550

Sedro-Woolley $140,0004 bedrooms, 2 full baths. Only 5 years old! Lovely mountain views. Fully fenced backyard. 2-car garage. All appliances included. MLS#173308

Call Debbie, 708-8780

Alger $329,5002005 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

Mount Vernon $379,9501990 SF Rambler in Nookachamp Hills. 3 BR, 2.5 baths, Hardwood, carpet & tile fl oors, Slab granite, tile backsplash, & several other high end fi nishes. Great room w/ a 2-sided FP, Lg kitchen perfect for a chef & large sized breakfast nook! Seller will pay up to 3% buyers closing costs. MLS#29154892

Call Michelle, 630-4423

Bayview $470,000Beautiful newer home on shy 5 acres in Bayview area. 3 BR, 2.5 Baths, 2897 SF, Extensive use of Travertine Tile & granite. Master BR on main fl oor w/ FP, Kit. w/island, eating bar & pantry, 2-car at-tached gar + Lg 2 bay shop/garage. MLS#160988

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

Sedro Woolley $150,000Beautiful 4.29 acres with private well, Skagit County approved septic. Design for 4 bedroom home is ready for your dream home! Great Loca-tion! MLS#202405

Call Pete, 708-6500

REDUCED

963 Hillcrest Dr., Burlington $379,000Burlington Hill home w/ Views to the East & South. Gourmet Kit. w/ Cherry Cabinets & Granite Counters, Hdwd. Floors, Gas FP, Lg Master BR w/ Sitting Area & Bath, Secure 2-Car Garage. MLS#115774. DIR: I-5 EXIT 230, EAST ON HWY 20, LEFT ON SKAGIT ST., LEFT ON HILLCREST DR. TO HOME ON LEFT.

Call Ron, (360) 333-1045

OPEN HOUSE: Sat 1-3PMSept. 24

Burlington $449,0004+ Acres w/2500 Sq Ft Home, 4 Bdrm, 2.5 Baths w/Full BA off Master, Formal Dining & Living Rooms. Attached 2-Car Garage, 1250 Sq Ft Heated Shop/Garage. MLS#50618


Sedro Woolley $92,500Beautifully maintained triple wide. SW fi nest 55+ Senior Park with security gate. Approx 2000 sq ft with open fl oor plan, 2 bdrms, 2 baths, vaulted ceilings, built-in china hutch. Lots of storage. Fenced landscaped backyard , 2 decks for enter-taining. MLS#228322


Mount Vernon Historic Neighborhood $199,950Beautiful Craftsman Style home. Completely updated & move in ready. Large kitchen, updated appliances, New windows, vinyl siding, gutters. Updated fl ooring throughout, including tile & laminate. Great walkability to schools, businesses & bus line. MLS#236901

Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

REDUCED

REDUCED


Think the housing market has slowed to a crawl? not in the luxury market, where business is booming, cash buy-ers are snatching up great deals and luxury homes are being sold for much less than the asking price.

Shawn Shackelton has been a Realtor in Scottsdale, Ariz.’s luxury market for over 13 years. She recently sold a $3.2 million home in the private gated com-munity of Silverleaf and says that the luxury market has been extremely active in Arizona, a market that was hit hard by the downturn.

“Most of these are cash buy-ers,” Shackelton says. “Many have been watching this market for quite a while and are now getting significant discounts on these homes. Inventory is drop-ping, but prices are staying stable. With inventory dropping, it’s harder to find homes.”

From March 2010 to March 2011, the National Association of Realtors reported that interna-tional buyers purchased more than $82 billion in real estate, up 24 percent from the previ-ous year. More than half is from Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, India and China.

“Some of these buyers are taking advantage of the favor-able exchange rates to buy mega mansions at a discount,” says Chad Rogers, a Hilton and Hyland Real Estate Agent in Malibu, Calif., and featured

agent on the Bravo reality series “Million Dollar Listing.”

Rogers says that in his Los An-geles market, the Multiple Listing Service is reporting that so far in 2011, more $20-plus million priced homes have already been sold than compared to all of last year.

“The City of Los Angeles passed a new Hillside Mansion-ization Ordinance, which makes building on a hillside stricter for those looking to develop large estates,” he explains. “Buyers who are looking for mansions in the hills are willing to pay a pre-mium for an already constructed property than buying land and building new.”

Affluent buyers also are grab-bing hold of great deals in high-end communities of Los Angeles County. For example, Rogers says he represented a buyer on a $23.5 million property in Beverly Hills which was listed for $50 million back in 2007. “Although there is an uprise in über-luxury home sales, no prop-erty is immune to the market,” Rogers says.

In Miami, Melissa Rubin, broker and vice president of Platinum Properties International, says it’s all about the price. “Clearly, prices have significant-ly dropped since the crash with many properties priced at about two-thirds of what they were during the market height,” she says. “However, we are in criti-cal pocket whereby the economy is starting to recover. Many are speculating exactly when prices are going to bottom out, but in some areas, they are starting to rise and these properties are get-ting snatched up quickly.”

Luxury Living

Overall, real estate may be waiting for a rebound, but in the high-end segment, the sales just keep coming.


According to Rubin, a key market to South Florida real es-tate is the foreign nationals, with a particularly strong representa-tion from Brazil, Venezuela and Canada.

In Brazil they are enjoying a booming economy and want a close vacation spot,” she says. “In Venezuela the unstable economy is spurring them to take their money out of the country; and in Canada, our dollar is comparable to theirs and severe winters have them yearning for a South Florida hot spot - espe-cially within Broward County.”

In New York, Heather Mc-Donough of Prudential Douglas Elliman just sold comedian Dave Chappelle’s luxury home and says that high-end properties have to sell because the reality is that life happens and clients are

moving and buying because they are having babies, getting mar-ried and divorced.

“In 2000, when things went south, they put their move on hold because of the uncertainty,” she says. “There has since been some recovery and people have to move.”

Her market, below Manhat-tan’s 34th Street, is short on inventory with no bargain to be found. “We almost lose touch with what’s going on in the national economy,” she says. “Manhattan is transient and it’s keeping the prices at a very healthy level. I’ve had five clos-ings this year and they were pushing new pricing thresholds. You can find a bargain if you’re willing to buy under a million and do light renovation.”

(c) CTW Features

If you’re ready to buy a home, many signs point to favorable buying conditions: mortgages are available, affordability has

improved, home choices are abundant and interest rates are low. Even better, 8 out of 10 economists agree that home prices will rise

in the next fi ve years. Which means getting in on the ground fl oor before prices begin to rise is a smart move.

Homeownership is an investment in your future. Work with a REALTOR® who can explain options that best fi t your situation.

To learn more, visit HousingMarketFacts.com.

EVERY MARKET’S DIFFERENT, CALL A REALTOR® TODAY.

8 OUT OF 10 ECONOMISTS BELIEVE HOME PRICESWILL RISE IN THE NEXT 5 YEARS. *

THE OTHER TWO ARE LIFE-LONG PESSIMISTS.

©2009 National Association of REALTORS®.

*Figure based on the Keller Center for Research at Baylor University, 2008.

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

Six Signs You Are Ready To Buy

If you are thinking about buying, you're not alone. So are you ready to make the move? You might be if you: 1. Are familiar with the market. If you've been paying attention to how much houses are listed for in the area you’d like to live, you're in good shape.

2. Have the money for a down payment and closing costs. Generally, buyers will receive an estimate of these costs from your lender after you apply for a mortgage.

3. Know how much you can afford. Your monthly mortgage payment should be less than or equal to a percentage of your income. Also, your income, debt and credit history go into determining how much you can borrow.

4. Know what additional expenses will come with owning a home. Including homeowners insurance, utilities, and maintenance costs.

5. Have your credit in good shape and make sure your credit report is accurate. You should get a report from each of the three credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union.

6. You haven't made any recent major purchases, particularly a vehicle. If you do, you may have a harder time getting a loan, or it could potentially lower the amount you'll be approved for.

Realtor.com~Michele Dawson

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

360.424.0300 or 360.853.8888

NEW PRICE on this remarkable home, compare to any stick built. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, den/offi ce & beautiful landscaping with lights & drip water system to all gardens. High end laminate fl oor, crown molding, architectural details, decorator colors, Avalon free standing gas stove, 3-car garage plus shop & RV parking. Protran transfer switch for generator. A stunning home! MLS#242999 DIRECTIONS: East on Hwy 20 from Sedro Woolley. South (right) on Russell Road & west (right) on Willard Lane.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH 11 A.M. TO 1 P.M.39904 Willard Lane, Birdsview • $244,900

OPEN HOUSE

Beautiful mountainous property located in the gateway to the Cascade Mountains. Two parcels: one is 38.55 acres (P31040) & the second 3.31 acres (P31041) with possibility to subdivide into two residential buildable properties. Within easy walking distance to the very scenic Sauk River & adjacent to Sauk River Estates, a community for weekend, vacation & permanent residents. MLS#179765

Rockport • $158,900

NEW PRICE

CONCRETE$19,900

• 3/10 acre tract• Convenient location

• Utilities in streetMLS#208338

MOUNT VERNON$114,900

• 2 bdrms & 1 bath• Shy ¼ acre lot• Oak fl ooring

• Fruit treesMLS#207773

MOUNT VERNON$209,000• DUPLEX

• 2 bdrm & 1 bath units• Masonry fi replace

• Double carport• Large backyards

MLS#242619

Linda Dietrick360-840-6771

Richard Dickman(360) 420-3155


One of the ills crippling the job market is a severe case of homesickness. The obstacle standing between many Americans and a new job is their home - and

dim prospects of selling it at a price that makes relocating for a new position af-fordable.

Despite high unemployment, “there is a talent shortage,” notes Melanie Holmes, a vice president for Manpower, the Milwaukee-based employment-servic-es company. One of the reasons employers can’t fi ll certain spots is because work-ers can’t make a move, she ex-plains.

However, com-panies are now offering solutions that may lessen the pain of a move.

Indeed, now that “underwater” and “upside down” have become popular terms to describe owing more in mortgage than can be netted from a sale, housing is a key discussion topic in hiring.

“As soon as a candidate expresses interest in a position, we will fully discuss their housing situation, and we ask a lot more questions than we did years back” says Steve Hall, vice president of business development for FGP International, a Greenville, S.C., search fi rm.

Several solutions exist, says Tierney Remick, a managing

director for recruiting fi rm Korn/Ferry International., among them:

• A short-term, interest-free loan supplied by the employer to provide a down payment or help the worker pay two

housing bills for a period.

• Temporary housing paid by the employer for several months.

• A signing bonus that incor-porates compensa-tion for housing costs.

When a head-hunter contacts a candidate, he will bring up hous-ing. But a job seeker who lands an interview on his own also may negotiate housing compensation - if the employer is anxious to hire.

Often, candidates receiving housing-related aid are at least mid-management level or above, says Dan Ryan, a Nashville search consultant. But there also is a shortage of non-manage-ment jobs in some fi elds, like technical manufacturing posi-tions, adds Hall.

“I wouldn’t mention [housing] right away” in the interview process, advises Holmes. But once a candidate receives sub-stantial interest, Holmes suggests he could bring up the ques-tion: “I own a house, and moving is a problem. Are there any creative solutions?”

(c) CTW Features

making work moves workMoving

VALLEY HOMES823 N 4th St • Mount Vernon

www.buyingvalleyhomes.com(360) 424-7166

Visit Our Web site at buyingvalleyhomes.com

Call us today or email us [email protected]

Property Management Services / Rental Listings Available (360) 424-3198

920 Alderwood Lane, Sedro Woolley

AFFORDABLENeeds some help but carpet,paint and

some TLC will make this 2100 sq ft 2 story FreddieMac/Homesteps foreclosure

shine again.This home Qualifies for the FreddieMac First Look Initiative preference for owner occupants thru 8/16.Plus a 2 year

limited Home Owners Warranty for owner occupied.

Call Laura Bird 360-630-9692

#257646 $179,900

Lot 3 Timberland Ct, Concrete

BEAUTIFUL MOUNTAIN VIEWSBeautiful Mtn views from these 1 acre lots in Birdsview.Next to Rasar State Park w/miles of walking trails to river & woods.Country living within easy distance to

town.Paved streets w/underground power plus underground conduit installed for cable TV,phone,& high speed internet.

Street lights are installedCall Becky Elde 360-770-9427

#49570 $29,900

24435 State St E, Sedro Woolley

ROOM FOR HORSESCute 3 bedroom with bath. Single garage,

coved ceilings, new roof, new gas FA furnace, fresh paint on exterior. Site on 2.45 acres. Even room for your horses.

Call Vicky Boyd 360-708-7884

#257607 $197,000

702 N Skagit St, Burlington

MOVE-IN READYMove-in ready home w/large living

room,nice kitchen area w/range,Large double door refrigerator with ice-

maker,dishwasher,adjacent utility room w/washer & dryer.Bedroom & bonus room

could be used as a 3rd bedroom,office,etc.Large Master Bedroom w/space for lounge area on 2nd floor. Relatively new 24'X24' detached garage/shop with power and

cement floor. 8'X12' shed. Fully fenced yard.Call Jim Nicholas 360-708-9379

#249019 $130,300

2021 N Laventure Rd #307, Mount Vernon

CONDO2 bedroom 2 full bathroom condo

conveniently located in an off-street area lending to seclusion from traffic and the surrounding area. End unit for outside pleasure that has sliding doors all the

way across the large living room for your entrance onto a large covered patio.

Call Jim Nicholas 360-708-9379

#268662 $131,670

2012 Windsor Dr, Mount Vernon

LARGE PRIVATE LOTLarge private lot in desirable neighborhood.

4 bedrooms with large rec room downstairs. Patio goes out to large private yard. Remodeled and updated throughout.

New appliances in kitchen. Nice utility room with lots of storage/pantry area.

Call Becky Elde 360-770-9427

#248626 $220,000


Values Down, Taxes up

QuesTIon: My property taxes are going up, even

though the local home values have gone down. this is because, it is said, there are so many foreclosures. When a house is fore-closed and goes back to the lender, isn’t the lender still required to pay the property taxes on the house? the lender will make money on the house eventually.

answeR:First, you should be ap-

pealing your tax assessment. If local home values are go-ing down then that should be

reflected in your tax bill.second, when a home is

foreclosed the lender and their servicer are supposed to take on the taxes, maintenance and security once new ownership is recorded. However, after foreclosure a property may remain vacant for a lengthy period, making it susceptible to van-dalism and reducing its value. as an example, the Woodstock Institute found that among more than 18,000 vacant properties in Chicago almost 70 percent had been foreclosed.

third, the idea that the lender will make money on foreclosed property now or at some point in the future is unlikely in most markets, if not impossible.

short sales depend on the willingness of the lender to accept less than the remaining principal debt. In the case of foreclosures, a 2007 study by the Joint economic Committee

of Congress estimated that a typical foreclo-sure produces a loss of as much as $80,000 in terms of lost principal, taxes and reduced local home values. today, losses are likely to be greater because home prices have continued to decline.

alternatively, if a property could be sold at a profit then the owner would simply sell, pay the lender in full and everyone would be happy. there would be no need to foreclose.

according to the National association of Realtors distressed homes were selling at a 20-percent discount in april, and 37 percent of all existing sales that month involved dis-tressed homes. as long as the marketplace is filled with these properties there can be little pressure to push prices higher.

Q&A ask ouR BRokeRBy Peter G. Miller

VALLEY HOMES823 N 4th St • Mount Vernon

www.buyingvalleyhomes.com(360) 424-7166

Visit Our Web site at buyingvalleyhomes.com

Call us today or email us [email protected]

Property Management Services / Rental Listings Available (360) 424-3198

920 Alderwood Lane, Sedro Woolley

AFFORDABLENeeds some help but carpet,paint and

some TLC will make this 2100 sq ft 2 story FreddieMac/Homesteps foreclosure

shine again.This home Qualifies for the FreddieMac First Look Initiative preference for owner occupants thru 8/16.Plus a 2 year

limited Home Owners Warranty for owner occupied.

Call Laura Bird 360-630-9692

#257646 $179,900

Lot 3 Timberland Ct, Concrete

BEAUTIFUL MOUNTAIN VIEWSBeautiful Mtn views from these 1 acre lots in Birdsview.Next to Rasar State Park w/miles of walking trails to river & woods.Country living within easy distance to

town.Paved streets w/underground power plus underground conduit installed for cable TV,phone,& high speed internet.

Street lights are installedCall Becky Elde 360-770-9427

#49570 $29,900

24435 State St E, Sedro Woolley

ROOM FOR HORSESCute 3 bedroom with bath. Single garage,

coved ceilings, new roof, new gas FA furnace, fresh paint on exterior. Site on 2.45 acres. Even room for your horses.

Call Vicky Boyd 360-708-7884

#257607 $197,000

702 N Skagit St, Burlington

MOVE-IN READYMove-in ready home w/large living

room,nice kitchen area w/range,Large double door refrigerator with ice-

maker,dishwasher,adjacent utility room w/washer & dryer.Bedroom & bonus room

could be used as a 3rd bedroom,office,etc.Large Master Bedroom w/space for lounge area on 2nd floor. Relatively new 24'X24' detached garage/shop with power and

cement floor. 8'X12' shed. Fully fenced yard.Call Jim Nicholas 360-708-9379

#249019 $130,300

2021 N Laventure Rd #307, Mount Vernon

CONDO2 bedroom 2 full bathroom condo

conveniently located in an off-street area lending to seclusion from traffic and the surrounding area. End unit for outside pleasure that has sliding doors all the

way across the large living room for your entrance onto a large covered patio.

Call Jim Nicholas 360-708-9379

#268662 $131,670

2012 Windsor Dr, Mount Vernon

LARGE PRIVATE LOTLarge private lot in desirable neighborhood.

4 bedrooms with large rec room downstairs. Patio goes out to large private yard. Remodeled and updated throughout.

New appliances in kitchen. Nice utility room with lots of storage/pantry area.

Call Becky Elde 360-770-9427

#248626 $220,000

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

360.757.60131.800.869.7084

Dick Best 770-1491Fritz Inman 661-0147Shelah Inman 661-0145Holly Brown-Hilts 661-5538Phil Hurtig 770-0787

Galen Kindred 770-7083Terri Heyntsen 391-0938Ron Wortham 661-1500Tim Reichert 391-5587Jeff Ingman 202-2859

Tod LeHecka 333-1032Mary Jo Reitsma 770-6013Jan Scally 421-5160www.brownmcmillen.com

Evening Phone Calls Welcome

OPEN HOUSE SAT. SEPT 24 1:30-4PM

BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED BOW HOME… on 8ac. A must see! $579,999 #250045 Hosted by: Terri Heyntsen Dir: Chuckanut Dr/WA-11 to Ershig Rd., right on Ershig. Left on Worline. Home on right

LOCATION, LOCATION… gorgeous 5 ac parcel on Bayview Ridge, great views, private w/well established homes. $299,500. #D255599

NORTHWEST CRAFTSMAN… One of the largest homes, backs up to protect-ed area. Open plan, lg kitchen, covered patio. $350,000. #107987

ACCESS TO TRAILS… you will love this 18 acres with a well on Lk Cavanaugah Road. $109,500. #228885

EAGLEMONT LIVING!… 3 Br, 2.5 Ba, 2340 sf home in a quiet cul-de-sac, tons of charm. Wonderful landscaping, 2 water falls. $339,950. #271424CLASSIC COLONIAL… 4 bdrm, 2.5 bath home in perfect condition. Lots of hard-wood, new carpet, 2 f/places + 2800 sf of living. $379,500. #239534BURLINGTON COUNTRY RAM-BLER… Outstanding views from front porch, 3 bdrm, 2 full baths, 4 years old, large kitchen, $274,950. #251248GREAT FIRST TIME BUYER… 3 bdrm, newer electrical service, hot water tank, gas furnace, vinyl fl oor covering, large city lot. $132,000. #191135AFFORDABLE LIVING… great invest-ment property or fi rst time buyer. 2 bdrm, 1.5 bath condo, convenient Burl-ington location. $99,000. #153357

TERIFFIC HOME!~ 3 br, 2.5 baths w/2400sf. New carpet, upgrades on appl., central air cond. Detached garage/shop, fenced back yard. $249,500. #246601

CAPE COD HOME… Gardner’s delight! Main Floor w/1 bdrm, liv room/dining room w/fi r fl oors, kitchen w/french doors. 2 bdrms up. $169,950. #41566

JUST REDUCED… 5 ac parcel. Brl Schools, West of I-5, close to Mt Vernon & Bham. Power & Driveway in. Bldg site, for your home plans. $130,000. #29129150

FREEWAY VISIBLE… Offi ce bldg on 1.76 acres in excellent Mt Vernon location. Commercial & Light Indus-trial Zoning, great for any business use. $875,000. #243377


No longer is Kansas - or any other Midwestern state, for that matter - the only place where tornadoes touch

down, as those living in western Massachu-setts found this past June when two twisters left widespread damage and took four lives. Though there are times when there’s little, sometimes nothing you can do to prevent a tragedy due to Mother Nature, there are steps to minimize the chances and protect your family and property.

Here are several precautions to consider, which may also help you lower insurance premiums:

Fierce winds and rainWhether strong winds are due to hur-

ricanes or tornadoes, they can cause fl y-ing debris from homes or trees to damage houses, belongings within and most impor-tantly, homeowners. Karen Clark, president and CEO of the Boston risk assessment and management fi rm that bears her name, recommends taking patio furniture and trash cans inside when bad weather is a possibil-ity, and also trimming dead or dangling tree limbs (many cities will do this for you if you call) and periodically checking a roof for loose shingles or tiles.

Jodi Marks, an Atlanta-based home im-provement expert who co-hosts HGTV’s “Fix It Up!” advises having a builder or contrac-

tor install hurricane straps to attic rafters to reinforce the roof’s structure. Hurricane shutters are another safeguard, according to Todd Recknagel, CEO of Mr. Handyman, a network of home-repair franchises.

Since a basement is often a home’s prima-ry shelter, all its parts - walls, fl ooring, ceil-ing - should be sealed and insulated. French drains outside can help prevent water from entering; if it does, a sump pump can stop it from accumulating. Gutters should be di-rected away from the house and foundation with downspouts extended several feet from the home. Land around the house should be sloped to channel away excess water.

Freezing Temps, precipitationBesides cleaning gutters and downspouts

each fall, it’s important to check them again before winter since frozen water can cause ice dams to build. In such cases, melting water backs up, getting under shingles and leaking into an attic and rooms beneath. Removing snow and having good attic in-sulation also helps avoid these dams, Clark says. If a new roof is needed, she suggests dimensional asphalt shingles rather than fl at ones and staying away from metal in areas prone to hail, which can dent the metal. Before temperatures dip, outside faucets and valves also need to be turned off so water doesn’t freeze in pipes and burst.

To keep the interior protected, R-rated insulation based on the area’s building code and climate should be added throughout the house, says Recknagel. Temperature sensors can notify homeowners if a drop in tem-perature is too precipitous, which also could cause pipes to freeze. One major goal is to keep a house habitable if power goes out, says Mike Rogers, senior vice president for GreenHomes America, a residential home performance company. But if it does, a whole-house generator can provide tem-porary relief, and needn’t be exorbitant in price, Stewart says.

insurance CaveatsEven though real estate prices may have

dropped in many parts of the country, the cost to replace a house and contents damaged by weather hasn’t gone down. Increases in materials and labor may have actually increased them, says Clark. She stresses the importance of a policy that guar-antees full replacement cost.

Amy Danise, senior managing editor of insure.com, an online consumer resource, also recommends having a detailed home inventory, since remembering contents can prove tough during stressful times.

Any home improvements should also be refl ected, Stewart says. Otherwise, your coverage may prove inadequate.

Weather AlertSevere weather has become a common occurrence.

Here’s how to make sure your home is safe before the next storm hits.


Slashed home prices and interest rates continuing to hover near

historical lows aren’t the only enticements currently available to buyers seeking a home purchase bargain.

Now, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are sweetening the pot by offering special limited-time incentives on fore-closed homes, turn-ing what are already good deals into great ones, say the experts.

Fannie Mae’s cur-rent HomePath incen-tive, which began June 14, gives up to 3.5 percent in clos-ing-cost assistance to buyers who pur-chase a HomePath property as a pri-mary residence and close by Oct. 31, 2011. A $1,200 selling agent bonus also is available to selling agents who close on an owner-occupied property. Additionally, buy-ers who qualify for HomePath fi nancing can be eligible for reduced down pay-ments and are not required to purchase mortgage insurance or get an appraisal on the property.

“We offered this incentive to encour-age owner-occupant buyers of our proper-ties. Our HomePath properties are lo-cated in communities all over the country, and can be outstand-ing opportunities for families, particularly fi rst-time home buy-ers,” says Andrew J. Wilson, senior man-ager of corporate communications for Fannie Mae. “Many of our properties have been repaired so that they are in great condition and move-in ready on day one.”

For more info, homebuyers can visit www.HomePath.com.

Although a similar closing-cost special from Freddie Mac re-cently expired, those shopping for a fore-closed home from the government-spon-sored enterprise still can take advantage of its HomeSteps SmartBuy program. Eric Will, senior REO sales director for HomeSteps, says that buyers can cur-rently receive a lim-ited two-year home warranty - which covers electrical, plumbing, air condi-tioning, heating and other major systems

and appliances. Additionally, Fred-die Mac is offering up to 30 percent discount toward the new appliances. On the web, visit www.HomeSteps.com/SmartBuy for more info.

Logan Waller, bro-ker/owner of Waller Group Properties in Dallas and a listing agent for Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, says that it’s rare for these two enterprises to offer incentives like these at this time of year.

“Fannie and Freddie are going to great lengths to ensure that they are targeting owner occupants and maintaining home values,” Waller says. “They’re doing this by repairing the homes to average or good condition for the neighborhoods.”

“Most of these properties sell very quickly and buy-ers will usually fi nd themselves in a multi-offer situation,” says Jennifer Thomson, a Coldwell Banker agent in Miami, Fla. “Right now, buying any foreclosure prop-erty is a great deal, as most of these properties are priced at current market

values, which have drastically declined.”

To ensure the best success in fi nding and making an of-fer on a Fannie or Freddie property, try to enlist an agent experienced in Real Estate Owned (fore-closure) transactions, including a Fannie or Freddie listing agent who has a sales team. Look for agents familiar with the foreclosure market and Freddie/Fannie contracts, in addition to the bank negotiation process, pricing and reduc-tion matrices and repair and marketing strategies.

Additionally, hire a local home inspec-tor in the area of the foreclosed home you’re interested in, as most foreclosure contracts allow an inspection period, and use a title com-pany experienced in closing foreclosure properties. Also, if the residence you have your eye on does not include a home warranty, think strongly about pur-chasing one - which can be purchased and renewed for an average of $300 to $500 each year.

(c) CTW Features

Further Incentive

Limited-time offers from Fannie Mae

and Freddie Mac hope to make the

foreclosure market look even sweeter

10 September 23, 2011 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly

2,000 sq. ft. newermanufactured home,

3 bdrm, 4 ba,ready to move.

Asking $45,000/obo.206-384-2669

Spectacular ViewsBuild Your Dream Home

5 - 20 acre parcelsEast of Sedro-Woolleystarting at $99,950 eachWater share for each parcelOwner termsPrivate areaClose to natureDeer and Elk aboundNicely treed acreageGreat for hiking, horsebackriding or motorcycle riding

Midway Realty360-659-3644

½ off 1st month: Prof. officespace, approx. 1000+ sq. ft.on Riverside Dr., MV. Move inready, available now. 360-595-2611

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

MV RV PARK. Affordablemonthly living. Nicest park intown. (360) 428-8787

Weekly rates, $295.SPECIAL - 4 wks., $895.

WHISPERING FIRS MOTELAlger 724-3477

27' travel trailer with full ac-cess to household amenitiesin Concrete $600/mo. 1St, last& damage. 360-595-0439

MV 9-plex 2 bdrm 1 ba nearhospital, garage, W/D, $775/mo. $500 dep. 360-424-6974

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

2 Bdrm, 700 Talcott, Sedro-Woolley, near schools, play-ground, library, senior center,market. 5 energy efficient ap-pliances, 600 c.f. storageshed. W/S/G pd. $745 + $600dep. Screening report req'd.No smoke/pets. 840-5728

West MV 2 bdrm, 1 ½ bafarmhome, credit check, $900mo. $500 dep. 424-1715

S.W. 3 bdrm., 1 3/4 ba.All applcs., no smoke/pets.

$850/mo. (425)743-2850

RENTALSHouses & Apartments.

See our listings atwww.skagitrentals.comRemax Property Mgmt.

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

Rent to own – almost newspacious 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba withbonus room. Beautiful yard,granite tiles, frplc., 2 cargarage. Quiet Mount Vernonneighborhood. $1850 per mo.www.skagitsolutions.com

360-422-5708

MV, lovely home in cul-de-sac, close to schools, shop-ping & hospital, huge fencedbackyard, 3 bdrm, 1 ba, car-port, $975/mo. + dep. Back-ground check. 425-350-9627;360-391-5650

MV 2 Bdrm, 1 Ba, near Hill-crest Park. S/G pd. $895 +$850 dep. 360-391-0243

BURLINGTON 3 bdrm, 2 ba,2 car garage, Peter AndersonRd. 3 bdrm, 3 ba, 2 cargarage, media room, Burling-ton Hill. LACONNER 4 bdrm,3 ba farmhouse.

Call The Rent Lady360-299-2353

www.rentlady.comfor photos & info.

BURL. 3 bdrm, 1 ½ ba, gasheat, fenced yard, no smoke.$1075/mo. 360-391-3644

Burl. 2 Bdrm, W/D hookups,yard, garage, new carpet,$765/mo.+util. 360-679-1103

Bow country living. 3 bdrm,2 ba, attached dbl carport,$1400/mo. 755-5555

BIRDSVIEW NEW 3 bdrm, 2ba, custom, covered deck, allapplcs., $1185 + dep. 336-1904 or 422-7201.

3+ Bdrm, 3 Ba, 2200 sq. ft.home, 2 car garage, lrg. yardon Buchanan Hill, E. of MV,near Clear Lk. Lease. $1600,1st & dep. 360-856-2920

2 bdrm waterfront loft cab-in, stairs to beach, hot tub, allappliances, carport, garage.$975. + $975 dep. Avail. Oct.10. 360-661-0002

1-3 bdrm apt/house in MVfor $495-850. Nice area.

360-336-5412/ 425-347-2330

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 pets. Call Markat 360-708-2694.

On Lake Samish studio apt.Sept. 15th-June 15th. Lrg.kitchen, bath & living room/bdrm, closets, use of lawn,beach & dock. No smoke/pets. Refs. $600/mo. 360-424-1695

NO HIDDEN FEES!Fairhaven Manor 757-2149

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

Newly remodeledlarge studio on busline.

Great MV location $550-$700ASK ABOUT OUR

MOVE IN SPECIAL!360-420-0606

MV, 2 bdrm end sun deckapt., redecorated, clean,quiet, W/S/G/basic cablepd. Refs + dep. $750. Nosmoke/pets 360-424-1695

William Forbes

William Forbes, 95, ofMount Vernon passedaway Thursday, September15, 2011. Arrangementsare pending with Kern Fu-neral Home.

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

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

Anac. 4 bdrm, 2 ba, bonusroom, close to town &schools, detached garage inalley, $1700/mo. 1St & dep.Avail. Oct. 1st. 360-333-1877

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

$705/mo. 360-424-6757

2 bdrm apt. MV, 1 1/2 ba,$700/mo. W/S/G pd., nosmoke/pets. 360-610-3842.

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 bdrm in Burl. carport, nat-ural gas heat, utility room,$750/mo. W/S pd. $600/damage. No pets. 856-6878

1 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts2 x 1 ½ Town homes

Covered-Assigned ParkingGarages / Storage Avail.

Complete Appliance PkgsSport Courts / Playgrounds

Pet FriendlyCall Today! 360-856-4803

CALL FOR MOVE-INSPECIAL. Sedro-Woolley,Burlington & Oak Harbor 1 & 2 Bdrm apts., W/S/Gpd., no pets. 360-708-3427

Bayview Luxury Home12485 Persons Road, Bow, WA

Five acres w/island viewsMIL apartment on property

NW Contemporarycustom design

Set off the road for privacyPUD water, fenced

for animalsPasture and forest!

$924,000 MLS 262078Call for an Appointment

Windermere Real Estate/Skagit ValleyJim Glackin 360-428-2828

REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly September 23, 2011 11

OWNER FINANCING 20ACRE/HOME SEDROWOOLLEY MOVE IN NOW!.OWNER WILL WORK WITHBUYER. CALL DIANNEDALBEY, BROKER TODAYAT 360-757-SOLD OREMAIL AT [email protected]

9.4 acres, good pasture,large loafing shed, oldbarn, with pond for cattle,large RV garage + woodshed. Large shop with workpit. Mtn view. 3 bdrm, largeliving room, dining room,large kitchen. A must seefor $250,975. Call 360-856-1313. If no answer, call360-636-5054; cell for 360-430-8084

8615 Fruitdale RoadSedro-Woolley

Development project wait-ing to happen. Bring yourexpertise and buy thisbeautiful 9.6 acres with ter-ritorial view. The land isopen and surrounded bythe majestic mountains.Newly zoned to R7 zoning,city limits, 2 single familyand 1 duplex per acre.Pos-sible 18 to 19 lots with vari-ation 2 + 1 for max. Com-mercial 8 inch sewer stubalready installed at thestreet. Wetland Delineationcomplete. County willrecord new zoning on nextroll. #225217 $325,000.Linda Piazza, PreviewProperties Skagit LLC (360)713-3623

721 Orth Way,Sedro-Woolley, WA

Priced at: $242,000MLS: 274409

Incredible value and wellcared for 3 Bedroom, 2Bath -1380 s.f., 24' x 28'shop with cable & heat, RVpkg, triple pane windows &gas forced air, beautifulkitchen with maple cabi-nets, granite countertopand tile flooring. Large,covered deck with Trexdecking. Natural gas fire-place in living room.

Agent: Dena PolingPreview Properties

Skagit LLC (360) 848-8900

NEW PRICE $219,000!!202 S. 30th StreetMOUNT VERNON

On a corner lot, in a wellestablished neighborhood,this well maintained homeis move in ready! Naturallight makes the kitchenbright and inviting. Masterbedroom has w/walkincloset and sky light overvanity. Two more oversizedbedrooms and storage ga-lore. Has newer roof, cen-tral heating and air system.Finished garage is well in-sulated. Minutes away fromshopping, playgrounds,and golf course. Pleasecall Sherry @ Lake Ca-vanaugh Realty, 360-391-3891 MLS# 162761

Contractor's DreamProject! Built in 1911 - stillin the family! Needs TLC.Large corner lot at 1523So. Third. All offers consid-ered! Please call after11AM (360) 595-2533 leavemessage.

BRIGHT & CHARMINGCONDO

For Sale By Owner –Southern exposure andhigh ceilings bring lots ofnatural light into the greatroom living, dining, andkitchen area of this homewith parklike exteriorscene. Master suite fea-tures private bath with dualsinks, extended shower,enclosed commode andawesome closet; excep-tional breakfast/lunchcounter & great pantry en-hance kitchen. Home hasgas heat, gas range andcustom gas fireplace; guestbedroom, bath and den/of-fice plus garage with stor-age attic. Community hasnumerous activities, includ-ing monthly potlucks.Walking path available toHaggen Market. $179,000.Call Barbara at 360-428-5617 for preview showing.

824 N Laventure,Mount Vernon

INVESTOR ALERT!Take it to the bones andbuild her back up to shineagain. Great location, cor-ner lot. Walk to schools,college & park. 3 bed-rooms, 1.5 baths. Fencedbackyard. Single cargarage. Good investmentproperty. Good rent incomepotential. #256443. $74,900

Steve Zimmerman360-202-1231

Preview PropertiesSkagit LLC

A two story farmhousewith a view of Padilla Bay,Olympics and Cascades.It has three bedrooms,1830 sq. ft., some acreage,a barn and workshop.Now selling at market priceof $365,400.Come see and make youroffer. Call for preview at(360) 399-1097.

Mount Vernon – great op-portunity, 2 businesses on1 property. 1 vacant com-mercial building for yourbusiness approx 3900 sq.ft., newer roof, ready tostart your business. Rentalincome on 2nd building iscurrently leased at$800/mo., as auto body &paint shop. List price$395,900. Midway RealtyInc., 360-659-3644 or callJud 425-327-0960.

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

OPEN HOUSESATURDAY, Sept. 24th,

1-3PM963 HILLCREST DRIVE,

BURLINGTON

Rare 1 level 3 bedroom, 2bath home on beautifulBurlington Hill. Outstandingviews to the East & South.Elegant home features withcherrywood cabinets andgranite counters, hardwoodfloors, a warm & cozy gasfireplace, spacious & openfloor plan flooded w/naturallight. Oversize master bed-room. A luxurious masterbath with a soaking tub anda spacious travertine show-er. MLS #115774 $379,000

Ron Van Pelt360-333-1045

ReMax Territory

OPEN HOUSE12-3 SAT 9/24

15634 SNEE-OOSH RD, LACONNER. Quiet beach liv-ing at it's Best!104ft. of lowbank waterfront. Views ofKiket Is. Deceptionpass.Well crafted home of-fers main level master andopen floor plan. Picturewindows in living roomw/electric blinds. 14x9safe/vault off finished day-light basement. Call Sherry@Lake Cavanaugh Realty,360-391-3891MLS#264964

Open House 1-3 pm.627 Ball St. Sedro Woolley

$179,900

Gorgeous, well maintained3 bed, 1.75 bath, 1370 sqft.single level craftsmanhome in a wonderful neigh-borhood! Recently remod-eled with newer vinyl &wood laminate flooring.Cozy gas fireplace, largemaster suite, flat 120 ftdeep lot with potting shed,waterfall & koi pond, per-fect for growing veggiesand putting your greenthumb to use! Directions:Hwy 20 east, RIght on Fer-ry St. Left (North) on BallSt., Follow signs.

Brian Henderson,Muljat Group Realtors,

(360) 303-1787

OPEN HOUSE FOR FOURHOMES

SAT., SEPT. 24 COME SEEFOUR HOMES AT ONCE.ONE OF THEM IS CHEAP-EST HOME LISTED IN SK-AGIT COUNTY. FOOD, IN-FO. BUYER PREQ. NOPRESSURE. 3PM TO 7PMON WICKER CALL DIANNEDALBEY, BROKER ORJUST SHOW UP 360-757-SOLD (7653) HENDRICK-SON REALTY

INCREDIBLE VIEW HOME9095 Bayview Edison Rd.

OPEN HOUSE THURSDAY Sept 29th

4:00-7:00 PMESTATE SALE $312,000Panoramic Views PadillaBay to Mount Baker. 2550SF Home Built 1994. OpenFloor Plan. Wood Fireplaceand Gas Stove. New Roof& 24X48 Shop.

Call Hugh Schmidt 360-421-4178

ARE Realty Inc.

1145 SHARON AVENUE,BURLINGTON, $329,900

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY,SEPT. 25,11:00-2:00

This is the perfect floorplan! Quality constructionwith 50 year compositionroofing, cedar siding withstone accent, enclosedpine soffits, gas fireplace, 4bedrooms and computerroom or den/5th bedroom.Open floor plan, detailedwood work. Large 2 car at-tached garage. MLS#213598.

Call Linda Eastman,(360)202-4075

WRE/Skagit Valley

North Homes Realty Inc.

SANDI RILEY 770-8670 Sandi Riley

770-8670Anita Kohl961-7795

2631 CLUB COURT #308, M.V. $159,500

• NEW PRICE “RAMBLER” END UNIT W/LG. DECK & WOODED GREENBELT! • SPACIOUS LIVING/DININGROOM ,BRICK FPL. W/GAS INSERT,BAY WINDOW • 2 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHS (JETTED TUB), LG. OAK

KITCHEN W/FAMILY ROOM!

OPEN SAT. 1-4

1405 MALLARD VIEW DRIVE.,#5, MT. VERNON $219,000

• LOVELY VALLEY/CITY/ SUNSETS VIEWS, ALL ONE LEVEL, END UNIT! • UPGRADED W/NEWER FLOOR

COVERINGS, CUSTOM MAPLE CABINETRY • 2 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHS, VIEW DEN/OFFICE,

GAS HT. + FPL., DOUBLE GARAGE!

OPEN SAT.& SUN. 1-4

4111 JASPER WAY, ANACORTES $334,900

• BEAUTIFUL “CEDAR GLEN” AREA, LG. PRIVATE YARD W/R.V. PARKING • ”IRVING CONST.” QUALITY, MAPLE

FLOORS,GRANITE/CHERRY DESIGNER KITCHEN • 3 BEDROOMS, 2.75 BATHS, HUGE FAMILY ROOM,

GAS HT., GAS FPL., 2400+ S.F.!

OPEN SAT. 1-4

NEW PR

ICE

NORTHRIDGE CONDO’S

DAY CREEK

55+ PARK

GREAT

VALUE

NEW PR

ICE!

2400 STONEBRIDGE WAY #1, MT. VERNON $298,400

• 2045 SQ. FT. “RAMBLER” STAND ALONE CONDO, “ADULT COMMUNITY” W/CLUBHOUSE • VAULTED/OPEN DESIGN LIVING RM. W/GAS FPL., HUGE OAK KITCHEN &

LG. “ISLAND” • 3 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHS, FAMILY RM., GAS HEAT, AIR CONDITIONING + DOUBLE GARAGE

BY APPOINTMENT, EASY TO VIEW

JUST

LIST

ED

21397 EGRET PLACE, (CONWAY) MT. VERNON $465,000

• LONG PRIVATE DRIVEWAY, 1.83 ACRES W/GREENBELT & FOREST LANDS • CUSTOM N/W CRAFTSMAN W/MASSIVE RIVER ROCK FPL., GRANITE ISLAND/CHERRY CABINETS

• 4 BD,LG. MSTR DOWN, 2.5 BA, DEN + BIG BONUS RM. UP, 3100+ SQ. FT., 3 CAR GAR!


PARK

LIKE

24497 OLD DAY CREEK RD., SEDRO-WOOLLEY $644,500

• LAKE/VALLEY/ & OLYMPIC MTN. VIEWS, PARKLIKE 11+ ACRES, ROOM FOR ANIMALS, PART. WOODED • LG SHOP,

CUSTOM RAMBLER W/VIEW DECK + LG. VIEW PATIO, OVER 3100 SQ. FT. OF QUALITY! • 3 BD, 2.5 BA, OPEN PLAN W/LG. FAM. RM/MAPLE CAB. KITCHEN, VIEW MASTER SUITE!


VIEW, VI

EW, VI

EW!

21178 WILDWOOD PLACE, SEDRO-WOOLLEY $283,900

• PRIVACY++, W/EASY I-5 ACCESS, END OF ROAD SECLUSION,W/ 5 PARTIALLY WOODED ACRES • UPGRADED

“TRIPLEWIDE” BEAUTY W/”SHY” 2,000 SQ. FT., OPEN/VAULTED PLAN, QUALITY ++! • 3 BD, OPEN FAMILY RM./KITCHEN, 2 BA., GAS FPL., LG. GAR/SHOP W/HIGH DOOR


HUGE S

HOP/GA

RAGE


30595 WALBERG ROAD, SEDRO-WOOLLEY $748,900

• 15 MIN. TO TOWN, SECLUDED 38+ ACRES, ATTENTION SMALL PLANE OWNERS/RANCHERS! • FAA/SKAGIT COUNTY

APPROVED 1700 FT. LONG PVT. LANDING STRIP, UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY • 2700+ SQ. FT. “TRIPLEWIDE” 3 BD, 2 BA,

LG. FAMILY RM. + BONUS RM. + BARN/SHOP!

AIR-ST

RIP!!

8615 GARDEN OF EDEN ROAD, SEDRO-WOOLLEY $259,500

• PRIVATE 8+ ACRES W/LOVELY SOUTHERLY EXPOSURE/VALLEY VIEWS, SECLUDED BUT CLOSE IN! • VERY LG 3 BD, 2 BA HOME W/OFFICE + FAMILY ROOM,1848 SQ. FT., +

VIEW DECK • HUGE 900 SQ. FT. GARAGE/SHOP W/FINISHED BONUS ROOM/APARTMENT, GREAT PRICE!


VIEW+PO

ND

PRAIRIE RD.

CLEAR LAKE

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.

1710 SKYLINE WAY, #105, ANA $124,900The park is your back yard! Nicely updated 1 bedroom, 1 bath condo in Skyline. All new appliances, flooring & fixtures. Close to marina, parks, beach & ferry. Call Mel Foley at 770-3115. #2539523965 FRIDAY CREEK ROAD, BRL $150,000 Log cabin on quiet 1+ acre; 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Friday Creek borders three sides of this beautiful park-like property. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #2464048047 AVERY LANE, SDW $169,000Nice 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

2902 MONTGOMERY PL, MV $229,000Spacious 1800 sq.ft. rambler with 3 bedrooms, 1.75 baths. Mas-ter with walk-in closet & ¾ bath. Living room with fireplace. New carpet & interior paint. Fenced yard with deck & sprinkler system. 2 car garage. Call Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #274079

1110 3RD ST., SDW $229,000Lovely 2 story home with 2350 sq.ft., 3 bedrooms, 1.75 baths & den, large master & living room. Home with character, upgrades of Brazilian Cherry floors, light fixtures & front door. Charming separate mother-in-law studio. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #27355723150 FRANKLIN RD, CONWAY $229,500Little Fisher Creek runs through this 1.79 acre retreat! Beauti-ful park-like setting with lots of trees for privacy. Adorable 3 bedroom home. Huge garage/shop. Call Melanie Archuleta at 770-4032. #11299317076 BLACKBERRY CT, MV $289,000Wonderful open floor plan home on one level. 3 bedrooms, 2 bath, 2 car garage. Full walk-in storage access under home. Large lot with garden shed & territorial view. Call Kim Kelley at 202-5515. #263715225 LONGBEACH DR, CAMANO ISLAND $299,999 2 bedroom beach house on double lot! 2-car garage with fin-ished bonus room, outbuildings. HOA owns 275 ft beachfront lot across street & 1000 ft of sandy beach. Call Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #87712

3224 SHELLY HILL RD., MV $339,900Rambler on Maddox Creek hillside with views of Skagit Valley & Puget Sound. Stainless appliances, maple cabinets, rear decks with beautiful landscaping. 3 car garage. Call Jim Glackin at 428-2828. #1008218112 EMMANUEL LN, CON $378,5002 story home on 5 acres of pasture with spectacular mountain views. 3 bedrooms & 2.5 baths. Attached 2 car garage & 36x36 shop/barn with 10x14 & 8x7 doors. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #107634

7601 STATE ROUTE 9, SDW $389,000Spectacular log home on over 3 acres. One-level, 2 bedroom, 2 bath, built-in 2006. Hickory floors, clear-cedar ceiling & fir logs. Park-like setting. More info & photos at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #27236313677 DODGE VALLEY RD, MV $429,000Mediterranean style home located on Pleasant Ridge. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, .45 ac. Very unique with pristine landscaping, pond/waterfall, viewing patios & art studio. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #25239315002 CHANNEL LN, LAC $435,000Waterfront home at a great price. 1-story home with wonder-ful floor plan with spacious rooms & spectacular water views. Large level lot, 2 car garage. Close to LaConner. Call Sarah Minton at 770-3076. #24956818689 W. BIG LAKE BLVD., BIG LAKE $524,999Built in 1999, house sits above Big Lake with amazing views of the lake & mountains. 4 bedrooms & 1.75 baths. 100 ft. of waterfront. Call Brett Johnson at 661-3825. #104711

163692 BRADLEY RD, BOW $525,000 Unique equestrian property on 2.5 acres. 1-level 3856 SF home; 1170 SF shop/garage; barn with 8 stalls & tack room; outdoor arena. More photos at SkagitValleyHomes.com Call Bill & Jan-nette Krieger at 421-4446. #27346217311 W. BIG LAKE BLVD., BIG LAKE $619,900WATERFRONT ESTATE with 1+ acre on Big Lake. Full view of the lake, 3 RV pads with hook-ups. 3 stall dressing building. 2 decks & 2 docks. 1400+ SF with 2 bedrooms & 2 baths. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #1125804626 EAGLEMONT DR., MV $875,000 Beautifully designed custom build home in Eaglemont. 5 bed-rooms, 6 baths, 4735 SF. All rooms grand in scale. More photos & info. at www.skagitvalleyhomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #242416

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 206-715-1623Traci Cypher 708-9481 Veronica Lopez 420-0696Lorie Groth 425-422-7145

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

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REAL ESTATE CLASSES STARTING NOW!

CALL SCOTT 360-540-2121

LOCAL FOOD BANK DRIVE! BRING DONATIONS TO 526 E. COLLEGE WAY

$370,000 MLS#275026• Shy 10 acres • 2 building sites • Creek property • Baker view

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

$895,000 MLS# 275419 • Big Lk Bar & Grill • Business & Property • Lake views • SuccessfulOP

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OUSE SATURDAY 1-4

2631 Club Ct #308, Mt Vernon1405 Mallard View Dr #5, Mt Vernon4111 Jasper Way, AnacortesSATURDAY 2-414876 Summers Ln, Mt VernonSUNDAY 1-4 2400 Stonebridge Way #1, Mt Vernon For Deta i ls and d i rect ions,v is i t openhouse.com.

$34,500 MLS#275440• 55+ park beauty • Private yard • 3 bedrooms • Upgraded

$189,000 MLS#274742• Turn of the century • 3 lot corner location • 3+ bedrooms • Priced to sell!!

$1,150,000 #28121879• 5 private acres • 5700 sq ft• 750 sq ft MIL apt • 2159 sq ft shop

$289,000 #188883• 4 bdrm Victorian • Prime location • Fenced bkyd • Zoned retail/residential

$399,500 #205308• 25 acres • Barns & shop • Fenced pasture • Beautiful 3 bdrm home

real estate weekly | september 23, 2011

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