Real Estate Weekly | November 18. 2011

12
NOV 18-NOV 24 TWENTY-ELEVEN FREE RealEstate weekly RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE HOW TO SURVIVE BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME PAGE 3 SMALL PROJECTS ADD UP TO BIG APPEAL PAGE 4 THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE MOVING PAGE 6 NEIGHBOR NICETIES PAGE 8 MORTGAGES PAGE 9 CLASSIFIEDS PAGE 10-11 INSIDE THIS 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 1926 Lindsay Loop, Mount Vernon $359,900 Beautifully maintained Maddox Creek executive home. This sharp home boasts 4 bedrooms, 2.75 baths, family room in daylight basement, and 3-car garage. Lots of built-ins and custom work throughout. The formal dining room will make memorable holidays. Enjoy beautiful views from the private deck, and relax in the private patio and yard. MLS#235143 SMALL PROJECTS ADD UP TO BIG APPEAL In this economy, homeowners are watching every penny. Just because money is tight doesn’t mean every renovation plan has to be cast aside. Smaller projects can revitalize a room without a big investment. (Continued on pg. 4) FEATURED ARTICLE: Skagit Tradition Realty 3780 E. College Way Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-424-0300 www.SkagitTraditionRealty.com Danya Wolf Listing Agent (360) 708-8294

description

Your Key to Real Estate in Skagit, Snohomish, Island and Whatcom Counties.

Transcript of Real Estate Weekly | November 18. 2011

NOV 18-NOV 24TWENTY-ELEVENFREE

RealEstateweeklyRESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE

HOW TO SURVIVE BUYING YOUR FIRST HOMEPAGE 3

SMALL PROJECTS ADD UP TO BIG APPEALPAGE 4

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE MOVINGPAGE 6

NEIGHBORNICETIESPAGE 8

MORTGAGESPAGE 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

1926 Lindsay Loop, Mount Vernon $359,900

Beautifully maintained Maddox Creek executive home. This sharp home boasts 4 bedrooms, 2.75 baths, family room in daylight basement, and 3-car garage. Lots of built-ins and custom work throughout. The formal dining room will make memorable holidays. Enjoy beautiful views from the private deck, and relax in the private patio and yard. MLS#235143

SMALL PROJECTS ADD UP TO BIG APPEAL In this economy, homeowners are watching every penny. Just because money is tight doesn’t mean every renovation plan has to be cast aside. Smaller projects can revitalize a room without a big investment. (Continued on pg. 4)

FEATURED ARTICLE:

Skagit Tradition Realty3780 E. College WayMount Vernon, WA 98273360-424-0300www.SkagitTraditionRealty.com

Danya WolfListing Agent

(360) 708-8294

2 November 18, 2011 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

TABLE of CONTENTSHow to Survive Buying Your First Home Pg. 3

Small Projects Add Up to Big Appeal Pg. 4

Things to Consider Before Moving Pg. 6

Neighbor Niceties Pg. 8

Mortgages Pg. 9

Classifieds Pg. 10-11

To advertise in

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

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

4PG.

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

Charlie & Jeannie Boon

708-9645

MikeWelling540-1341

Lisa Davies

391-2232

Pete McDougalBroker

708-6500

Amber Soria

969-4030

16573 Country Club Drive, Burlington $314,950Directions: H’WAY 20 WEST, RIGHT ONTO AVON ALLEN, LEFT INTO COUNTRY CLUB, LEFT AT CLUB HOUSE ONTO COUNTRY CLUB DRIVE, HOUSE WILL BE 4TH HOUSE ON THE RIGHT. Remodeled rambler on the 18th Fairway with golf course views. Brand new kitchen, hardwood fl ooring and paint. 3 bedrooms, 1.5 Bathrooms, 2 living rooms and an offi ce. Very large deck with hot tub. MLS #276434

Call Michelle, 630-4423

OPEN HOUSE: Sat. 1-3PM

Nov. 19

“Highest Overall Satisfaction For Home Sellers and Home Buyers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms”

RE/MAX received the highest numerical score among full service real estate fi rms for home sellers and home buyers in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Home Buyer/Seller StudySM . Study based on 3,861 total evaluations measuring 8 fi rms and measures opinions of individuals who bought a home between March 2010 and April 2011. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed March-May 2011. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com

Burlington $290,000Beautiful Burlington Bayhill Rambler. Shy 1900 sq. ft., 3 BR, 2 Baths. Remodeled kitchen. Fully fenced shy ¼ acre lot. RV parking. MLS #197512

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

PRICE REDUCED

Mount Vernon $142,300Affordable 2 bedroom. 1.75 bath. 1199 sq. ft. New hardwood fl ooring and kitchen countertops. Large corner lot with mature landscaping. 1 car carport and 4 small outbuildings. MLS #260435

Call Pete, 708-6500

PRICE REDUCED

Sedro-Woolley $239,500Beautiful spacious classic home, professionally updated. 4+ bedrooms, 2.75 baths. offi ce w/sepa-rate entrance. large lot on quiet street. Convenient to everything. MLS #295022

Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

NEW LISTING

Burlington $289,500Desirable Burlington Neighborhood. 3 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths. Large bonus room. Fully fenced backyard. Awesome waterfall and landscaping. RV parking site. MLS #293347

Call Jim, 708-1681

NEW LISTING

Mount Vernon $149,000Well maintained 3 BR, 2 ½ bath, 2-story home in Skagit Highlands. 2 car attached garage. Great location, close to shopping and amenities. Com-munity parks & walking trails. MLS #168546

Call Ivana, 770-3550

PRICE REDUCED

Burlington $142,500Solid rambler on large lot and great location. New Vinyl windows and partially fi nished basement. 4 bedrooms and 1 bath. A large detached shop/garage. Hardwood fl oors and a great country kitchen. MLS #281231

Call Mike (360) 540-1341

PRICE REDUCED

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly November 18, 2011 3

The lowest home prices in years and tax incentives are driving many people to purchase their first home. Few things are simultaneously as excit-ing and nerve wracking as becoming a homeowner. Preparation can make sure individuals are covering all of the bases.

First time home buyers easily can be overwhelmed by the process of buying a home. In addition to the legal hurdles associated with purchasing a home, the stress of committing such a substantial amount of money can lead to some sleepless nights.

But first time home buyers in the market for a home can prepare them-selves for the process ahead of time. Though the following tips might not guarantee a smooth and stress-free home buying experience, they can answer a few questions and facilitate the process.

• Establish your price range. As the housing crisis of the last several years indicated, many homeowners got in well over their heads. Some lost their homes to foreclosure, while others found it extremely dif-ficult to pay their mortgage each month. First time buyers can avoid such scenarios by honestly assessing what they can afford and searching for homes within their price range. A host of Web sites, including some lender sites, provide free mortgage calculators so buyers can see just what they can afford. Lenders often recommend spending less than 30 percent of income on housing costs.

• Research rates and taxes. Certain external factors beyond the price of the home will factor into a homeowner’s monthly financial commit-ment. Taxes and homeowner’s insurance can vary greatly depending on a home’s location. Research property taxes in different communities, and shop around for homeowner’s insurance when looking for a home.

• Expect to pay costs. Closing costs are often a big shock to first time home buyers. Closing costs include lender fees, title and settlement fees, taxes, and homeowners insurance or homeowners association fees. Bankrate.com provides an annul closing cost survey for buyers to get a better feel of just what they will be spending when the time comes to sign on the dotted line. A lender can also give an estimate of what the fees may total.

• Consult some professionals. Real estate professionals in the area might be able to paint a picture of what the real estate market is like at the moment. Prices might be on the rise, on the decline or remaining steady. If looking in a specific area, consult with a real estate agent about the area and what to expect.

When shopping for a home for the first time, buyers should expect the unexpected. However, the surprise element can be reduced if buyers do their homework before beginning the buying process.

How to Survive Buying Your First Home

4 November 18, 2011 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

For example, the kitchen is a popular room in many homes. If budget doesn’t allow for a rehaul of appliances or cabinetry, think about less expensive ways to modify the space. A new faucet can give the room a different look, as can replacing cabinet hard-ware and hinges. Revitalize the appearance of the room with new flooring, such as laminate that mimics the look of stone, wood or other natural surfaces. Change the accessories in a china hutch or hang some different artwork for an instant change.

In this economy, homeowners are watching every penny. Just because money is tight doesn’t mean every renovation plan has to be cast aside. Smaller projects can revitalize a room without a big invest-ment.Homeowners who

don’t have much to spend still don’t want to compromise quality with smaller improvements. There-fore, they’re often thinking of big ap-peal, albeit on a smaller scale. To get started,

homeowners should look at the rooms they use the most and begin there. What’s the point of starting in a guest room or renovat-ing the basement if it’s rarely used? Put available funds to work on the rooms that get seen.

Bathroom makeovers are often high on the list of improvements. But many im-provements can be budget-busters. Think about improvements that change what is disliked. Maybe outdated wallpaper can be removed and replaced with paint. Clean up the grout around a bathtub by redoing to freshen the room. Go with a new color scheme achieved by replac-ing the old linens, bath mat and shower curtain.

Add Up toSmall Projects

Big AppeAl

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly November 18, 2011 5

Living room re-dos can be achieved with some ac-cessory changes and perhaps a new piece of furniture. Change a glass coffee table for an earthy leather ottoman that can also store toys or throw pillows. A simple swap of window treatments can dramatically change the look of the room. If seating has seen better days -- but a new set is not an option -- form-fitted slipcovers are a quick, and generally low-cost, fix.

Kids’ rooms often can be improved with some much-needed storage space. Clear up clutter from the floor by installing a closet organizing system, which can hang clothes within reach for children. Older children may appreciate a room that reflects their maturity. Now is the time to change princess prints for bolder graphics or dump trucks for sophistication. All it often takes is a little paint and some new bed linens to achieve the look.

For a dramatic change in a home with hardwood floors being hidden by carpet-ing, take the weekend to pull up the carpeting and reveal the floors be-neath. A little sanding and resealing is often all it takes to bring out the beauty of the wood. And that will instantly provide value while increasing aesthetic appeal.

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

The Benefits of Home Ownership Studies show that home ownership has a significant positive impact on educational achievement, civic participation, health and overall quality of life. That’s why, for more than 100 years, REALTORS® have helped people find their piece of the American Dream. To find out how home ownership can benefit you, talk to an agent who is a REALTOR®, a member of the National Association of REALTORS®. Every market’s different, call a REALTOR® today. Download a free copy of the Field Guide to the Benefits of Home Ownership at HouseLogic.com/buyandsell.

Source: National Association of REALTORS®

6 November 18, 2011 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Moving has been ranked among some of the most stressful events in a person’s life. Despite the high levels of anxiety it can create, about 15 percent of Americans move each year. Younger people, aged 18 to 34, tend to do the most mov-ing and go the longest distances, according to statistics.

If you’re considering moving this year, it pays to do your research and be aware of a few tips before beginning the process.

• Narrow down your target area. Choose your desired area before you begin look-ing for houses. Things to consider in the area are the school system if you have children, proximity to transportation or employment, recreational activi-ties, distance from friends and family, and munici-pal taxes. You also want to consider safety, wheth-er there is a lot of industry in the area, congestion, and any other factors that are important to you.

• Get a pre-approval from a lender. A pre-approval will give you an estimate of what you can afford in a home and what a bank will lend

you for a mortgage. This can help you narrow down your search for a home and figure out a buy-ing budget.

• Figure out your price range. Once you have your pre-approval you can set your price range. It pays to be conservative when setting this range to ensure you’ll have enough money after mortgage payments and utilities for the other ne-cessities. Remember, the current market is favoring buyers, so buyers can probably negotiate the ask-ing price down by a few thousand dollars. There-fore, if you’re interested in a home for $300,000, set your limit at $325,000 when looking at proper-ties.

• Decide on a house style. Some buyers prefer townhouses or condos because of their all-inclusive nature. Others want semi-detached or completely detached homes. You may prefer the all-on-one-level nature of a ranch-style house or the cozy dormers of a cape. See what houses you’re attracted to and select those styles as your prefer-ences.

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE MOVING

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly November 18, 2011 7

• Consult with a real estate agent. You can certainly do your home searching by yourself. However, real estate agents have access to up-to-the-minute listings of properties from all different real estate agen-cies. Although they will receive a commission when you buy the house, it is paid by the seller, so using an agent is a wise investment. The same can be said if you need to sell your house in order to buy a new one. An agent can market your house more effectively than if you do it by yourself. It could be well worth the commission you pay for the exposure your home will receive.

• Visit potential properties. You can save time by having an agent place you on an e-mail list that will automatically send you listings in your price range and area. This way you can narrow down properties based on features and even do drive-by visits before viewing the property if it seems promising. If you like a particular house, make an appointment with your agent to visit it. Don’t wait until the weekend. Weekends are busy days for house appointments and your agent may be able to spend more time with you on a weekday. Plus, you can beat the crowds to view the property.

• Don’t get discouraged. Buying and selling homes is a process. You may fall in love with a house only to lose the house to a higher bid-der. Or you may find that the houses you desire are just above your price level. With time you will get a home that has much of what you want, even if it takes months to get there.

STAT

46

App-hAppyBuyERS

Percentage of adults who have downloaded an app to help them shop or make a purchase

source: Pew Internet and american life Project

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

360.757.60131.800.869.7084

Evening Phone Calls Welcome

PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP… in this Hilltop home. Open fl oor plan, hdwds, vaulted ceiling, lots of natural light. 3 Br & 1.75 baths up & 1/2 down. Private backyard, covered patio. $264,000. #292960SPECTACULAR VIEW!… 10+ acres, hard to fi nd view property! View of valley, river & mtns. Power & water to property. $249,000. #147323SERENE SETTING… 1512 sf Rambler on 2.48 acres partially cleared, lg ev-ergreens & spring fed pond near De-ception Pass. $179,500. NEW PRICE #169684CASH OR TERMS… full ac lot w/drilled well & 4 Bd septic. Nice location in Alger & owner will fi nance. $149,500 #219890COUNTRY ESTATE… On 2.38 ac over-looking Padilla Bay. 3 Br, 3 Ba home + a separate Carriage House w/studio apt up, 3 bays below. Parklike setting w/privacy. $629,000 #128481

AFFORDABLE HOME… on 1 ac. Solid home, hardwood fl oors, updated kitch-en, tile counters & foundation. 300 ft of Creek front. No short sale, bank will fi nance. $159,500. #292338129 ACRES… nicely wooded and great opportunity to buy large acreage at just $3,837 per acre. $475,000. #104177VACANT LAND… 5 ac level parcel. Bldg site ready for new Mobile or stick blt home. West of I-5 location (Hob-son Rd), offers wanted... $100,000. #2929150GREAT OPPORTUNITY… level piece of land in the city, zoned multi-family, 3 one story units can be built. Density for 2 story units. All utilities available. $315,000. #208598PEACEFUL 55+ PARK… spacious Dble Wide, painted inside/out, new roof, skirting. 2 bdrm, 2 bath, den area. Views/walking trails by Padilla Bay. $48,900. #61564

4 BR RAMBLER!… home w/great room, den, bonus room & kitchen w/eating space. Fenced backyard. Hot Tub,many upgrades. $225,000. #226036VERY PRIVATE… on 1.65 Ac parcel w/adjoining 4.59 Ac tract. 3 bdrm, 1 3/4 ba home, 840 + sf shop & out build-ings. Unique pond, $340,000. #267821SPECTACULAR VIEWS… of Similk Bay & beyond. Just over 1 acre, water, power in street, very desirable location $175,000. #121206BIRCH BAY!… 3 level acres with public water & sewer with 2 bedroom cabin. Zoned for up to 12 lots. Great invest-ment. $205,000. #275743AFFORDABLE COUNTRY HOME… on 1/2 ac.. Living room with free standing woodstove, adjoining kitchen & din-ing. 3 bedrooms + den/hobby room. 1 3/4 baths. 2 outbuildings . $195,000. #233664

Jan Scally 421-5160Fritz Inman 661-0147Shelah Inman 661-0145Dick Best 770-1491Phil Hurtig 770-0787

Tim Reichert 391-5587Terri Heyntsen 391-0938Ron Wortham 661-1500Jeff Ingman 202-2859Tod LeHecka 333-1032

Mary Jo Reitsma 770-6013Galen Kindred 770-7083Holly Brown-Hilts 661-5538

www.brownmcmillen.com3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernon

www.skagittraditionrealty.com360.424.0300 or 360.853.8888

MOUNT VERNON $72,000Here is an opportunity to own a very popular & thriving luncheon cafe located inside a retail garden nursery. The Garden Cafe has seen an increase in business each of the 4 years of current ownership. MLS#189350

Chris Miller 360-333-1868

MOUNT VERNON $114,900Beautiful 2 bedroom home in shy quarter acre lot. Park like setting with herb garden space and fruit trees: 10 varieties of apples, 4 kinds of cherries, 3 plum trees & kiwi. Features include oak fl ooring and wainscoting style exterior painted above with clear cedar siding below. A lot of parking space! Will consider trade for rural property/small acreage. NOT A SHORT SALE OR FORECLOSURE! MLS#207773

Danya Wolf 360-708-8294

SEDRO-WOOLLEY $199,900Large 3 bdrm rambler on 14.5 ACRES. CARD is almost complete to divide property into 3 lots. Land is perfect for grazing animals. Features include: good sized barn with loft, power & water; huge rear deck; hot tub; new fl oor

coverings; and extra room off kitchen. MLS#227113

Suzanne Jenkins 360-941-2983

BURLINGTON $199,000Affordable country living yet only minutes to town. Unique 3 bdrm farmhouse with many upgrades, including oak kitchen cabinets & tile countertops. Detached 30x50’, 2-story shop w/attached carport for RV. Separate bonus room. MLS#286030

Donna Kurras 360-770-7596

8 November 18, 2011 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Most everybody knows some of the cardinal rules of being a good neighbor: Keep your yard, garage and sidewalks neat; don’t trespass on a neighbor’s property; and certainly don’t let anyone in your household - two- or four-legged - make too much noise, especially early in the morning or late at night. What constitutes tidiness and acceptable decibel levels re-main a matter of debate. And then there are thornier issues that liter-ally sever friendly relationships.

For example, those branches growing over your property line, shading your roof and serving as a trampoline for squirrels? It would be nice if your neighbors pruned them, but don’t count on it. Or the party that gets a bit rowdy? Complain, and you may be labeled Scrooge. The dog next door that barks at all hours of the day? You may prefer to have him stay indoors all day, but remember this could be the equivalent of a family member, so tread gently. And here’s yet a more novel peccadillo: Your neighbors think your freshly painted facade is too

similar to theirs - and imitation isn’t the highest form of flattery.

So, what can you do? Start by building a good relationship.

Pauline Panza, a saleswoman with Keller Williams Realty NJ Metro Group in Montclair, N.J., suggests introducing yourself when new neighbors move in and extending a helping hand to feed a neighbor’s cat or pick up mail if you know they’re going away, she says.

Cindy Royall Libonati, with Ewing & Associates Sotheby International in Calabasas, Calif., suggests, “If you notice anyone struggling financially or because of health, bring over a meal. Or if someone’s elderly and can’t move their trash can, do it for them,” she says. In her Woodland Hills neigh-borhood, neighbors developed a tradition of sharing Bloody Mary’s on New Year’s morning.

Times of trouble require addition-al care, as Rob and Melinda DeR-ocker experienced when a lost cat went high up in their maple tree in Tarrytown, N.Y. “All our attempts to coax it down met with it going

60 feet high in the air. Friends came over with a ladder,” says Rob. After Day 4, the DeRock-ers sent out a picture by Email to neighbors and posted it on Face-book, and someone else alerted a local newspaper. Finally, the DeR-ockers received an Email from the owners who lived a half-mile away in an adjacent town that the cat was their missing Fluffy. Fluffy soon came down but ran off, though the owners’ dog located him. “We were happy to see the cat reunited with its distressed owners, and we ended up making new acquain-tances” Rob says.

But when disputes arise, the best strategy is to try to resolve them face-to-face, since people gener-ally are friendlier and less confron-tational than in letters or Emails, says Los Angeles real-estate attor-ney Zachary D. Schorr.

Etiquette guru Jacqueline Whit-more agrees. “Hostility only breeds hostility,” she says. Ap-proach your neighbors when they’re most likely to listen, which means not at dinner or late at night, and engaging in a pleas-

ant conversation that starts with a compliment, says Whitmore, author of “Business Class: Etiquette Essentials for Success at Work” (St. Martin’s Press, 2005).

Sometimes, a simple heads-up is sufficient. With tree limbs or bark-ing dogs, explain you’re going to check local and state laws, says Schorr. Or with the paint fiasco, it’s a done deal, and Schorr thinks there’s nothing to be do since no law probably was broken. “The annoyed homeowners are unrea-sonable,” he says.

The common denominator is to take the high road, since you may be neighbors for a long time. Do-ing so will also give you a leg-up if anything you do upsets them, Schorr says.

If being nice fails, leave a paper trail with a letter and cite relevant rules, says Schorr. If you still get nowhere, talk with an official or member of your homeowners’ association. “Many communities offer free mediation to avoid costly litigation,” says Schorr.

Neighbor NicetiesDon’t silently steam on your side of the fence. Here’s how to handle issues that may arise next door.

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly November 18, 2011 9

With the housing crash in the wake of the financial industry meltdown, gone are the days when most homebuyers could squeak by with a tiny down payment. Today, many lenders require a minimum down payment of at least 20 percent - which begs the question, where are buy-ers getting the extra funds needed nowadays?

According to the National As-sociation of Realtors’ Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers 2005-

2010, 66 percent of recent home-buyers used savings for the down payment on their home purchase, up from 50 percent in 2005. Receiving a gift from a friend or relative has increased as a down-payment source among all buy-ers, from a low of nine percent in 2006 to a high of 18 percent in 2010.

“Savings are providing the bulk of down payments, but people are also asking their families to step up and gift or lend them

money to meet the strict financ-ing guidelines that banks are following,” said Perrine Knight, a commercial and residential broker with Baird and Warner in Chicago.

“I would also advise research-ing any down-payment assistance programs and grants in your county and state that buyers could possibly qualify for,” said Sam Bass, a broker with Acadia Realty in Atlanta.

The down payment isn’t the only

fund you need to be concerned about. To ensure that you have enough salted away for down payment and closing, Knight rec-ommends raising at least 25 per-cent of the home’s price if you’re purchasing below $417,500 and 30 percent or more for any property that’s more costly. Home shoppers who qualify also may want to pursue a mortgages loan insured by the Federal Housing Administration FHA, which re-quires only 3.5 percent down.

Mortgages

Where Today’s Down Payment Comes From

10 November 18, 2011 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly10 November 18, 2011 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly

SPECIAL OFFER!$100 off first 12 monthsspace rent! 1993 Dart-mouth, 28x60, 3 Bdrm, 2Ba. New roof & rear deck.Lrg. kitchen w/appliances.Full laundry room withwasher & dryer! Must see!Beautiful 55+ comm. Only$35.9k! Financing avail!360-424-6946

REDUCED: Mobile Homein beautiful Park Village,Mount Vernon. 1248 sq. ft.3 bdrm, 2 ba, open floorplan, large bedrooms, stor-age shed, many upgrades.$24,750. 360-319-4274

Retired, responsible non-smoking couple would likehome to lease. 3 bdrm, 2 baor larger. Master must be onmain floor. 2 car garage &boat parking. Natural gas orpropane. Prefer country orrural. Hardwood / tile floors.Shop would be a plus. Localreferences / financial infoavail. The perfect home willbe pet friendly. Avail. Feb. 1,2012. Please call John at785-410-2265.

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

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

Looking for roommates toshare my 3 Bdrm home inBurlington. There are 2Bdrms available to rent.Rent is $450 per month. Nolease, just month to month.

You will have own bedroomand share a bathroom in anon-smoking home. Rentincludes access to washerand dryer, shared kitchen,large fenced back yard.Room could be furnishedwith futon and dresser foran additional $50 permonth. Street parking infront of the house. Nice,well maintained house inBurlington, easy freewayaccess and bus line. Quietneighborhood. House doeshave dogs and cats, so noadditional pets please.

You will share utilities. Wifiis available in the house foradditional cost. Please call360-770-2035 for more in-formation and to come seethe room.

ANAC. Doublewide, 3 bdrm,2 ba, yard, gas furnace, $790+ dep. 928-345-2086

4-PLEX in Stanwood. 3bdrm, 1 ba, w/tile and hard-wood floors, $900; 2 bdrm, 1ba, top floor, $675; 1 bdrm,w/new carpet & vinyl, $650; 2room studio w/laminatefloors, $485. All with views.425-478-0848

FALL SPECIALMount Vernon 2 & 3

bdrm duplexPrivate, quiet setting, allnew. All appliances, W/S/Gincl. Only $795, $855 &$895/mo. Call 206-409-9317 or 206-849-3334.

2 bdrm, 700 Talcott, S.W. Allenergy efficient appliances.Storage shed. Comprehen-sive screening report req'd.No smoke/pets. $795. + $600dep. 360-840-5728

2 bdrm, 1 ½ ba, MV, privategarage, fenced backyard, Petokay. $825/mo. $800/dep.360-422-5162, 360-333-9159

2 Bdrm, 1 ½ Ba, gas heat,W/D hook-up, garage, $795.Avail. now. 1000-A SterlingSt., S.W. 425-773-0573

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

RENTALSHouses & Apartments.

See our listings atwww.skagitrentals.comRemax Property Mgmt.

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

CUTE AS A BUG! 2 bdrm,gas heat, garage, S. MV., nosmoke/pets. $885/mo. 360-708-2672

Burl. very nice 2 story, 1550sq. ft. home, with carpet, fr-plc., granite countertops, 1car garage, applcs. incl.,$1,000 damage, $1200/mo.Contact Mike (360) 202-4700after 5 p.m.

Burl. Large 3 bdrm, 1.5 ba,gas heat, 2 car garage, nosmoke. $1195. 360-391-3644

Beautiful MV newer town-home 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba, 1600 sq.ft., $1195. Call 360-333-1886.

5 BDRM, 1.5 BATH5 bdrm, 1.5 bath, w/hot tub.$1500/mo. 1St, dep. 360-336-5308

3 Bdrm, large yard, beautifulBig Lake view, gas heat,$1,200/mo. incl. sewer & yardcare. 360-421-2004

3 bdrm, 2 story quaint olderVictorian home with garden,1.5 ba, large kitchen/diningarea, gas heat, barn storage,West MV, new carpet, W/D.$995/mo. 1St & dep. No pets.360-387-5713, 360-420-5514

3 bdrm, 2 ba., in Burl.$1250/mo., 1st & $800 dep.Credit chk. Ready between12/2 & 12/15. 360-766-5203

1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals.Piazza Realty Property

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

Small 2 bdrm, MV hill, newerpaint, carpet, vinyl andblinds. Good South light.$695. (425) 478-0848

NO HIDDEN FEES!Fairhaven Manor 757-2149

Norris Place 757-30602 & 3 Bdrm Apts.

Affordable. Section 8 okay.

FALL SPECIALMV 2 bdrm, 2 ba

Luxury interior, all new,beautiful setting, Mt. Bakerview. All appliances &W/S/G incl. Only $795,$825, $895, $925/mo. 206-409-9317 or 206-849-3334

Call now for rent special:Spacious 2 & 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba,

WD, W/S/G/cable pd.$775/$875. No pets. 1825E. Division MV. 383-6603

Apartments for Rent:All utilities paid includingpower and cable TV. 1 Bdrm$700/mo. Monthly rentalagreement. 24 hr. on-sitelaundry, close to college. Call(360) 424-0221.

ANACORTES 4-PLEX3 bdrm. 2 ba, upstairs unit.3602 B Michele Ln. Gas frplc,W/D hookups, 2 prking w/small stg. WSG paid. $860 +$800 dep. 360-293-8506 [email protected]

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

$705/mo. 360-424-6757

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

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

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly November 18, 2011 11REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly November 18, 2011 11

SEDRO-WOOLLEYRent-to-own this new 1470sq. ft., 3 bdrm, 2 ba. Greenbuilt home. $1,450.00 mo.

For details go towww.skagitsolutions.com

HOME FOR SALE 29,900This is a spacious 1800square foot manufacturedhome in a quiet community. Ithas 3 bedrooms and 2.5bathrooms. It has a formaldining room, two livingrooms, a wood stove andvaulted ceilings with sky-lights. With qualified Bankloan the monthly payment is$750, this includes the mort-gage, space rent, garbage &sewer. The community is alsopet friendly. 600 N reed st#50. Call 360-333-3110

2300 S. 19TH STREETNew Construction

Pricing $325,0002000 sq. ft. rambler on10,000 sq. ft. lotVery quiet, secluded, S.Mount Vernon area3 bdrm + den/4th bdrm,2 ½ bathsGranite countertops,stainless appliancesOpen floor planMaster suite featuressoaking tub, doublevanities, double showerClose to schools, shop-ping, easy I-5 accessAct now to pick colors.Call Builder Direct

Legacy Home BuildersCharlie Ash 360-770-7678

www.legacyhb.net

CASH BUYER LOOKINGFOR BARGAIN

Want waterfront, woodseywith some sun (gardner), halfacre plus, with or withoutsmallish to medium home(older, fixer?) not sub-divi-sion (no real close neighbors).360-720-4480

Former McDonald's1908 Riverside Drive

Mount Vernon

-Prime owner/user oppor-tunity-Excellent location for nu-merous office & retail uses-Close proximity to one ofthe highest traffic intersec-tions (Riverside & CollegeWay)-Strong neighboring retailbase anchored by Wal-Mart and Safeway-Seller will consider anyreasonable offerPrice reduced to $595,000

Grubb & Ellis Co.Call Scott Clements

206-388-3020

BUSINESS LOCATIONLocation! Location!

Prime location on

Riverside Dr.

Paved 21,780.00 square feetsales lot with lights,signs andready to go on busy River-side dr. Over 2000 sq ftbuilding with offices, shop,lobby area, bathroom, atticstorage area.Large shop doorwith garage door opener. Up-stairs office has view of entiresale lot . Land Use (550) RE-TAIL/AUTO/TIRES/MARINECRAFT/AIRCRAFT & ACCESS.Neighborhood (6R9) AUTOSALES/SERVICE FACILITIESReduced to only! $329,000428-5040

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

BURLINGTON HILL$359,900

963 Hillcrest Drive; Beauti-ful views; 2300 square footrambler; 3 bedroom; den;great room; open floorplan; many upgrades; largemaster suite; Saturday andSunday 1-4pm

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

1114 S 6th St, Mount Vernon Affordable is this FreddieMac/

Homesteps Foreclosure. This home features 3 bedrooms 2 full baths and a fenced yard.

This home qualifies for the FreddieMac First Look Initiative preference for owner

occupied offers thru 9/9/2011.Plus a limited 2 year Home Owner Warranty for owner occupied. Call Laura Bird 360-630-9692

MLS#: 267237 $49,900

5235 Timberridge Dr, Mount VernonBeautiful NW Contemporary home. Bright

with high ceilings, open kitchen, nice appliances, huge garage with storage.

Great floor plan. Move in ready. Motivated sellers. You have to see this one!

Call Laura Bird 360-630-9692

MLS#: 284020 $155,000

3610 Mohawk Ct, Mount VernonNice 4 bedroom, 2 full bath home on an

extra large lot in a cul-de-sac. Downstairs is plumbed for an extra bathroom. In the

winter you can see the swans on Trumpeter Lake. Nice views from this home to

Anacortes and up to Bow. Beautiful deck looks over the large yard which has several fruit trees. Nice neighborhood, nice home.

Call Becky Elde 360-770-9427

MLS#: 292067 $320,000

Lot 1 Timberland Ct, Concrete Affordable Presale Craftsman Home on 1 full acre. Nice open floor plan. Choose your own colors before it is built.Would make a great vacation home also.Walk

across the street to Rasar State Park where there are miles of trails through

the woods down to the Skagit River.Only 16 miles east of Sedro Woolley!

Call Becky Elde 360-770-9427

MLS#: 52665 $165,000

1048 Cassius Ct, Camano Island Beautiful 3 brm 3 bth 3 car gar custom designed by owner-engineer with the

best island view of Utsalady Bay,Mt. Baker Whidbey Is. La Conner, & Mt. Vernon fi re-works. Amenities as follows: Kitchen w/

storage space,pantry,center Isle w/extra sink, 2 gas fi replaces, UVR windows. shop/wine cellar/etc. Call Jim Nicholas 360-708-9379

MLS#: 292797 $575,000

1229 Harrison St, Mount VernonGreat foundation, great bones...great start to an excellent investment. 3 bedroom/1

bath home w/an attached carport & garage on a fenced lot behind the Mount

Vernon post office. Surrounding this home is plenty of foliage of all colors, perfect for any nature lover that wants the convenience of living downtown

Call Racquel McDermott 360-420-1830

MLS#:286000 $89,500

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

George Herner 840-3743Jackie Lindeman 770-9080Jared Storrs 853-6895 Karl Morse 395-5405Lorie Groth 425-422-7145Margie Ernst 708-3198

Marlene Deasy 661-6720Megan Daly 206-383-4407Mike Newman 708-1419Noli Goode 630-6527Paula Margerum 220-0681 Rick Kiesser 770-1195

Sandi Hocking 708-1523Sandi Riley 770-8670Sharon Stokes 661-6164Shaunna Harris 206-715-1623Traci Cypher 708-9481 Veronica Lopez 420-0696

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

SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.

REAL ESTATE CLASSES STARTING NOW!

CALL SCOTT 360-540-2121

OPEN HOUSESSATURDAY 2-420918 Hermway Heights, Mt VernonFor Deta i ls and d i rect ions,v is i t openhouse.com.

$278,400 MLS#294946 • Shy ½ acre • Huge family room • 720 sf shop • Over 2300 sf$29,500 MLS#291481• Private fenced yard • Large deck • Affordable park, • Newer roof

$325,000 #292252• Lg island kitchen • River rock fpl • Lg Master • Theater room

$125,000 MLS#293288• Dream cabin • Private, RV parking• Pine floors • LG view deck

$269,500 MLS#278063 • Active adult living • Spacious 2 bdrm • 2 car garage • Immaculate$185,000 #248123• Open floor plan • Large master • Many greenbelts • Plus 2 bdrms up

$748,900 #250365• Private air strip • 38 acres • 2700+ sf home • Lg shop/barn

$215,000 #193527• Excellent condition • Large shop • New carpet & paint • 3 bedrooms

$329,900 #265957• Private 5 acres • 3 bdrms + den • Shop/Garage • Spacious kitchen

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

www.WindermereSkagit.comWindermere 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.

700 N REED ST., #87, SDW $39,950This large 4 bedrooms, 2 bath double wide is very clean & move-in ready. Many upgrades & improvements. One of the nicest homes in Valley View. Close to shopping & all services. Call Rita Ingram at 708-8338. #275029

45884 DIVISION ST., CON $68,900Nice 4 bedroom home on a good sized lot. This property is located close to Hwy. 20 for easy commute. Would make a great rental or first time home. Call Lee Ann Dean at 421-3082 or Karine Anderson at 421-1189. #283121

807 W. HAZEL, MV $94,500Loads of potential in this fixer. Large kitchen with tons of cabinets, large living room, potential for upstairs master suite. Large lot, covered patio, fenced back yard. Call Sarah Minton at 770-3076. #266500

534 SPOKANE, LAC $139,900Wonderful La Conner home featuring views of the marina, spacious living & family rooms, 4 bedrooms & 2 baths, fire-place, attached garage & great amenities abound. Call Sarah Minton at 770-3076. #293591

8047 AVERY LANE, SDW $163,000Nice 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

2028 FOWLER ST, MV $235,000Great location, great floor plan at a great price! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, newer roof, new exterior paint & many interior upgrades. Covered back deck & fully fenced. Call Mel Foley at 770-3115. #236846

17076 BLACKBERRY CT, MV $279,000Wonderful 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. #263715

18307 PETER BURNS RD, MV $297,50023 acre farmette close to Big Lake & ORV Park. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, detached 28’x48’4 bay shop, fenced pasture with 30’x36’ barn. Dog kennels & grooming room. Call Warren Bingham at 770-2421. #231367

3710 BROADWAY ST., MV $289,900Nice hilltop home on just over 2/3 acre. 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2345 sq.ft. family & bonus room & 3 car garage. Sunny fenced back yard & 1/3 acre of private evergreen filled woods. More info & photos at skagitvalleyhomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #277733

21356 ROLLING RIDGE DR, SDW $294,650Ultra spacious custom home in the pristine neighborhood of Rolling Ridge Estates. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths plus office & won-derful sun room. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #223101

18562 VALENTINE RD, MV $349,950Restored farmhouse with new addition on Pleasant Ridge. 2798 SF, 3 bedrooms, bonus room & more. Located on a level, partly pastured 1.78 acres with outbuildings. More info & photos are SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #285352

17766 PAMELA ST., MV $387,900S. Mount Vernon custom luxury home on ½ acre with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths plus den & bonus room upstairs. Great room with built-ins, gas fireplace & Kempas hardwood floors. Chefs kitchen with cherry cabinets. Call Karen Beckner at 840-9455. #284524

125 N. 6TH ST., MV $389,500Built in 1923. Traditional 4 bedroom, 3000 sq.ft. home featuring hardwood floors, 10’ceilings, beautifully remodeled kitchen, many custom & gracious touches throughout. Very large yard, private & beautifully landscaped. Call Sarah Minton at 770-3076. #285329

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

15002 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. #249568

6792 F & S GRADE RD., SDW $485,900Car Collector’s Dream: garage space for 12 cars! Approx. 2238 SF, 3 bedrooms, 1.75 baths. Pond, 6+ acres, lower property w/approx. 740’of Samish River frontage. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #90077