JAN 13-JAN 19 TWENTY-TWELVE FREE RealEstate weekly RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE FIRST-TIME BUYERS REMAIN KEY TO HOUSING RECOVERY PAGE 3 HOMEOWNERSHIP: WHAT’S DRIVING PRICE PAGE 4 THE HOUSING MARKET: INDEXING THE IMPROVEMENT PAGE 5 THE VACATION HOME MARKET PAGE 6 Q&A ASK OUR BROKER PAGE 8 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 NEW GOLF COURSE LISTING! $310,000 Enjoy the expansive views of the fairways from this beautiful 3 bedroom rambler located on the 12th Tee of Skagit Golf and Country Club. This immaculate home offers large open living space with an abundance of natural light, hardwood floors, newer carpet, vaulted ceiling, skylight in kitchen, brick fireplace, sliding doors from both living and dining room out to the deck and a 3rd bedroom that would make a perfect office. Plenty of garden space and an easy care yard complete this fabulous package! MLS# 308903 FEATURED ARTICLE: Brown McMillen Real Estate 235 W. Rio Vista Avenue Burlington, WA 360.757.6013 www.brownmcmillen.com Agent: Holly Hilts 360-661-5538 THE VACATION HOME MARKET The second-home market has taken a hit in recent years. Yet, the home-away-from-home might be the thing for some buyers. Back when the housing market was happily abuzz with sales, lots of buyers thought a vacation home would add to their happiness. What’s happened to (cont. on pg. 6)
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
FIRST-TIME BUYERS REMAIN KEY TO HOUSING RECOVERYPAGE 3
HOMEOWNERSHIP: WHAT’S DRIVING PRICEPAGE 4
THE HOUSING MARKET: INDEXING THE IMPROVEMENTPAGE 5
THE VACATION HOME MARKETPAGE 6
Q&AASK OUR BROKERPAGE 8
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
NEW GOLF COURSE LISTING! $310,000Enjoy the expansive views of the fairways from this beautiful 3 bedroom rambler located on the 12th Tee of Skagit Golf and Country Club. This immaculate home offers large open living space with an abundance of natural light, hardwood fl oors, newer carpet, vaulted ceiling, skylight in kitchen, brick fi replace, sliding doors from both living and dining room out to the deck and a 3rd bedroom that would make a perfect offi ce. Plenty of garden space and an easy care yard complete this fabulous package! MLS# 308903
FEATURED ARTICLE:
Brown McMillen Real Estate235 W. Rio Vista AvenueBurlington, WA360.757.6013www.brownmcmillen.com
Agent: Holly Hilts
360-661-5538
THE VACATION HOME MARKET The second-home market has taken a hit in recent years. Yet, the home-away-from-home might be the thing for some buyers. Back when the housing market was happily abuzz with sales, lots of buyers thought a vacation home would add to their happiness. What’s happened to (cont. on pg. 6)
2 January 13, 2012 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly January 13, 2012 3
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
Pete McDougalBroker
708-6500
Amber Soria
969-4030
Concrete $29,900Get away from it all! 1 Bd/1Ba on a large lot, close to all outdoor activities. Year round cabin, right next to the Skagit River. Home is well built and above ground to withstand threat of fl ooding. MLS #253480
Call Mike, 540-1341
Mount Vernon $285,000Rare 9+ acre parcel of farmland. 1324 sq. ft. ram-bler; 3 bedrooms, 1 bath. Some hardwood fl oors. Living room with wood fi replace insert. Pantry off kitchen. Large 2 bay shop. MLS#233412
Call Charlie, 708-1415, Jeannie, 708-9645
Mount Vernon $359,000Built in 1994 in the style of the yesteryear. 3 bd/2.5 ba 2185 sq. ft home. This home is adorned with classic dormers, cedar siding, river rock fi replace and solid oak fl oors/staircase. 24 x 38 3 car garage. MLS#308824
Call Ron, 333-1045
Burlington $214,900Beautiful custom rambler w/ family room. Over 1/2 acre on quiet dead end street. Shop and garden with well. RV Parking plus 2 car garage with plenty of storage. MLS# 263737Directions: East on Highway 20 from Burlington, North on Mary Lane
Call Elizabeth, 708-8800
OPEN HOUSE: Sun. Jan. 15th
1-3PM
Mount Vernon $189,500Single level, ground fl oor condo in Mount Vernon with view over city. 2 bedrooms + offi ce. Lovely master suite. Granite countertops in spacious kitchen. 2 car garage, covered deck, gas fi re-place. Abundant storage. MLS #21439
Call Debbie, 708-8780
PRICE REDUCED
PRICE REDUCED
Burlington $775,000Gorgeous 2 story home custom built on 2 acres on Samish Island. 3400 sq ft home features 3 bedroom and 2.5 baths. Open fl oor plan designed for entertaining. Huge trex deck surrounds the whole house. Kitchen features cement counters and rock fi replace. Fully fenced & gated, gardens and fruit trees. MLS # 287415
Call Wilma, 661-1631 or Glen, 421-1706
PRICE REDUCED
Mount Vernon $379,000Spacious home just outside city. Formal living/dining. 2nd kitchen and oversized master suite. Large fi nished lower level, lots of space. Sits on large lot. MLS # 258223
Call Ivana, 770-3550
NEW LISTING
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RE/MAX received the highest numerical score among full service real estate fi rms for home sellers and home buyers in the pro-prietary 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
Calling All Landlords and Tenants,
Let Us Help with Your Rental Needs!
Call Wilma Louia, 755-5555
TABLE of CONTENTSFirst-time buyers remain key to housing recovery Pg. 3Homeownership - What’s driving price Pg. 4The Housing Market - Indexing the Improvement Pg. 5The Vacation Home Market Pg. 6Q & A: Ask Our Broker Pg. 8Classifieds Pg. 10-11
To advertise in
or other Skagit Publishing publications, Call 360.416.2180 or E-mail [email protected]
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.
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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.
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4Pg.
Real Estate Weekly content sponsored by:Whidbey Island Bank
2 January 13, 2012 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly January 13, 2012 3
OPEN HOUSES & SHOWCASES
$389,900FOR SALE BY OWNER - EAGLEMONT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB COMMUNITY4822 Beaver Pond Drive S., Mount Vernon, WA • [email protected] & Kerry Feldman • 360-424-5775 Cell: 360-739-5842
PEACEFUL HAVEN IN EAGLEMONT2,311 sq. ft. Custom Rambler, Built 2008. Nat. Gas, F/A.
3 BD, 2 Full BA, Bonus Rm above gar. Jetted Soaking Tub. Travertine Tile Floor in Mstr BA w/Radiant Heat. Vaulted Ceilings, Great Rm w/Cust Floor-to-Ceiling NW Eldorado Stone Mt. Lodge Gas F/place. Kitchen/Mstr Bath w/Slab Granite Counters & Tile Backsplash, S/S Appls, Maple Cabinets, Instant Hot Water. Solid Plank Hickory Wd Flrs, French Doors, Whole House Water Filtration System. Two Car Garage w/Storage. EverGrain Comp Decking, Green-belt behind house w/pond & nature trails, Private Mature Landscaping. CCR’s, Clubhouse, Golf Course.
OPEN HOUSESat 12-4
STAT
60%COST Of BUILdINg
Percentage of new home’s final sales price accounted for construction costs of the home.
source: NaHB 2011 Construction Cost survey
BUYING
First-time homebuyers accounted for 37 percent of the homebuying market last year, according to the 2011 National association of Realtors Profile of Home Buyers and sellers. While down from 2010’s tax-credit-incentivized record high of 50 percent, the recent NaR survey shows that first-time buyers remain an important part of the housing recovery.
according to the survey, the median age of first-time buyers was 31, and the median income was $62,400, up from $59,900 in the 2010 survey. the typical first home was 1,570 square feet, cost $155,000, and it had an estimated monthly mortgage principal and interest payment of $794.
Naturally, repeat buyers were older, earned more and sought out larger, pricier homes.
the typical repeat buyer was 53 years old, earned $96,600 - up from the $87,000 median in the 2010 profile - and purchased median 2,100-square-foot home costing $219,500, with an estimated monthly payment of $1,006.
Overall, the media down payment for buyers was 11 percent of the home-purchase price, ranging from five percent for first-time buyers to 15 percent for repeat buyers. according to Paul Bishop, the NaR’s vice president of research, the down payment for both sets of buyers was a full percentage point higher than in 2010, and indication of tighter lending requirements.
First-time buyers remain key to housing recovery
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homeowNershIp
a newly updated economic model developed by the National association of Home Builders enables builders, developers, prospective buyers and owners to see the impact of various features and neighborhood characteristics might have on home price.
Based on the four principal Census regions of the country, the NaHB online house price estimator finds house prices to be higher in the Northeast and West regions of the country, in addition to central cities and suburbs. Home prices tend to be lowest in homes built outside of a metro area, though some regional variation exists regardless of urban status.
the standard new single-family detached home is defined by the following features, based primarily on averages or medians from the U.s. Census Bureau’s survey of Construction:
• 2,150 square feet of living space
• Two full bathrooms and one half-bath
• Three bedrooms
• Garage (found in 70 percent of single-family homes built since the mid-1980s)
• Central air conditioning (found in 90 percent of single-family homes)
• Fireplace, which was in more than 50 percent of homes since 1974 up until 2010, when it dipped slightly below 50 percent
• A separate dining room, which the 2009 American Housing survey found in 2.2 million out of 3.8 million new owner-occupied housing units
• Three miscellaneous rooms
• Satisfactory shopping - grocery or drug stores - within 15 minutes of the community or neighborhood, which the aHs found reported by 90 percent of homeowners
the single-family detached house price estimator can be found at nahb.org/housepriceestimator
What’s Driving Price?New home price estimator shows what features affect price and offers a
glimpse into what the average home looks like
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Brown McMillen Real Estate235 W. Rio Vista Avenue, Burlingtonwww.brownmcmi l l en .com
Evening Phone Calls Welcome
TWO HOMES, ONE PRICE!… Shy acre property in lovely setting near Sedro Woolley w/3Br & 2 Br Homes. $279,500. #2669852SENIOR HOUSING PROJECT… 11 acres w/public water & sewer. Preliminary plans for 128 Unit Development. $1,920,00.00 #296744GREAT 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. #208598FREEWAY VISIBLE… Offi ce bldg on 1.76 acres in excellent Mt Vernon loca-tion. Comm’l & Light Industrial Zoning, great for any business use . $875,000. #243377ZONED BURLINGTON… general offi ce & misc. services allows many different uses. Check w/city.Put your business here in this great bldg. Over 2000 sf $224,500. #277005
REMODELED HOME WITH SHOP!… 3 Br, 1.75 bath home on large lot, Brl School District. Home nicely updated. $175,000. #304470BIRCH BAY… 3 level acres with public water & sewer with 2 BR cabin. Zoned for up to 12 lots. Great investment. $205,000. #2757432 BDRM COTTAGE… on 1+ acres east of Sedro Woolley.Extensive remodel, fenced. Home on PUD has irrigation as well. $115,000 #256759SPECTACULAR VIEWS… of Similk Bay & beyond. Just over 1 acre, water, power in street, very desirable location $175,000. #121206MOUNT BAKER VIEW… from this wonderful full acre building site. Pub-lic water & perk approved. $149,500. #235491MV CONDO… nice fl oor unit, close to hospital. $89,000. #200244
COMMUTER SPECIAL… 3 Br, 2.5 bath home is on a corner lot, fully fenced back yard, just 5 minutesd to freeway. $194,000. #305726OWN YOUR BUSINESS… nice loca-tion in Burlington w/2 businesses + apt above.Just 4 yrs old. $375,000. #286418SAMISH ISLAND-8 ACRES… partial view property, 20’ strip, saltwater& desirable bldg site. Water & Power available, partially wooded. 15 min to B-ham. $275,000. #297147PRISTINE CONDITION… located on quiet street, beautifully landscaped yard. 3 bdrms, 1.75 baths & large fam-ily room. Lots of storage. $219,500. #180350RIVERFRONT RECREATION! … 2 acres of camping paradise on Skagait River.Well & septic in, bathrooms w/show-er, 3 newer travel trailers. Call now. $89,000 #297118
Property Management Services / Rental Listings Available (360) 424-3198
814 Cul De Sac Rd, Burlington Main house with an attached ADU/
mother-in-law apartment. Main house: 3 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms, own septic & drain field, living room, breakfast nook, dining room, bonus/rec room & small
attached shop. The attached apartment: living room, kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, own septic & drain field. Live in one side & rent out the other or invest & rent out
both sides.Call Racquel McDermott 360-420-1830
$164,000
18519 Chantrelle Lane, Mount Vernon Country setting yet close to town on one full acre w/possible access to 8 additional acres of open space.Large wood wrapped Lindal Windows look out to private yard & deck.Pine ceilings,slate hearth around the wood
stove.Kitchen has nice high windows & vaulted ceiling w/deck off sliding glass door.
1048 Cassius Ct, Camano Island Beautiful custom 3 bed, 3Bth, 836 sq ft 3
car garage designed with views from every room of Mt. Baker, Utsalady Bay, Whidbey Is. and Canadian Mtns. Lg kitchen center island, built in china hutch, pantry. 2 gas
fireplaces 2 upper & lower decks 729 Sq Ft. UVR windows, wired for generator. Seller
will consider all offers.Call Jim Nicholas 360-708-9379
MLS#: 292797 $575,000
24404 McKendree Lane, Sedro Woolley Bring your horses this property has pasture with electric fence, corral, lean to for dry cover. 3 bed, w/den and closet. Storage sheds, carport/shop area. Covered front
porch,new laminate in living room, family room area. Brand new roof.
Call Mike Whitney 360-421-4310
MLS#: 288311 $195,000
19042 E Stackpole Rd, Mount Vernon Country living on a large lot yet close to town. Hardwood floors, lots of built in
cabinets. Mother-in-law apartment with wood heat and a room above the garage
plus 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms in the house; ½ bath is plumbed for a shower.
Conway school district. Short sale, subject to lien holder approval
Call Becky Elde 360-770-9427
MLS#: 304087 $165,000
5235 Timberridge Dr, Mount Vernon Beautiful NW Contemporary home. Bright
with high ceilings, open kitchen, nice appliances, huge garage with storage.
Great floor plan. Move in ready. Motivated sellers. Call Laura Bird 360-630-9692
MLS#: 284020 $139,900
you think all housing markets are in the tank? think again.
the number of housing markets showing measurable improvement nearly doubled in January with the addition of 40 new metro areas to the National association of Home Builders/First american Improving Markets Index.
the index identifies metropolitan areas that have shown improvement from their respective low points in housing permits, employment and house prices for at least six consecutive months.
the IMI now boasts 76 improving markets, up from 41 in December, with 31 states and the District of Columbia represented by at least one entry.
the five metro areas that dropped from the NaHB/First american Improving Markets Index in January were anchorage, alaska; Fort Wayne, Ind.; Canton, Ohio; scranton, Pa.; and Charleston, W. Va. a full list of all 76 metropolitan areas currently on the IMI is
available at: www.nahb.org/imi.the additions to the IMI followed news from
the National association of Realtors at the end of December that showed pending home sales had reached their highest level in 19 months.
the NaR’s Pending Home sales Index, a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, increased 7.3 percent to 100.1 in November (the most recent month for which data is available) from an upwardly revised 93.3 in October and is 5.9 percent above November 2010 when it stood at 94.5. the October upward revision resulted in a 10.4 percent monthly gain. the last time the index was higher was in april 2010 when it reached 111.5 as buyers rushed to beat the deadline for the federal housing tax credit. the index, which measures housing contract activity, is based on signed real estate contracts for existing single-family homes, condos and co-ops. a signed contract is not counted as a sale until the transaction closes. the data reflects contracts but not closings.
the Housing MarketIndexing the Improvement
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TheVacation Home
Market
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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
RESOLUTIONS FOR YOUR HOME
This time, it’s going to be different. A brand new year, brimming with possibilities, and you’ve resolved to move through your house like a whirling tornado of can-do, fixing and painting and organizing. This year, nothing will stop you.
Welcome to your home improvement New Year’s Resolutions!
1. Lose weight (cut energy use) 2. Quit smoking (purify indoor air) 3. Get out of debt (budget for improvements) 4. Learn something new (educate yourself on home finances) 5. Get organized (de-clutter) 6. Volunteer (support your community) 7. Drink less (curb home water use) 8. Spend more time with the family (share home improvement projects) 9. Get fit (exercise your DIY skills) 10. Be less stressed (use maintenance-free materials)
Source: Houselogic.com
Robin Lee LuifAssociate Broker(360)420-2026
2417 CROSBY DRIVE, MOUNT VERNONOne of kind custom home by a master builder. Gorgeoushardwood fl oor, vaulted ceiling & huge windows take in thesweeping valley view. Beautiful white stone fi replace in theliving room & it matches the white stone on the exterior front.Upper & lower decks run the full length of the home. 5 bedrooms & 3 baths, 4,000+ SF. Nicely landscaped lot in a quiet neighborhood. MLS# 218717 Just $339,950.
1501 MEADOW LARK LANE, MOUNT VERNONClassic rambler in a nice quiet neighborhood on a spacious lot. Slate entry & then enter the living room with big windows looking out to the nicely landscaped backyard. Double fi replace with gas in the living room & wood burning in the family room. 3 bedrooms & 1.5 baths & just over 1700 SF. New roof & new vinyl installed. MLS# 229760. Priced for $219,950.
3319 E. SECTION ST., MOUNT VERNONCharming home on a spacious city lot. Old fashioned front porch & a fantastic fl oor plan make this home a stand out. The spacious master suite is on the main fl oor plus there are 3 more bedrooms up and a great bonus room with nice westerly views. Kitchen/family room combo and a cozy living room up front. Huge 3 car garage with tons of storage. Over 2300 sq. ft. MLS# 271177. A sweet price of $284,990.
Back when the housing market was happily abuzz with sales, lots of buyers thought a vacation home would add to their happiness.
What’s happened to those owners since? And, in this downturn, is it possible to find happiness - personal and financial - from buying a second home?
We asked a few experts to assess the current state of the second-home market. While there are many sober observations, there are still reasons why a home-away-from-home can be a happy place.
Value LessonsThe National Association of Realtors’ research shows that
the median price of a vacation home fell about 11 percent last year, more than double the drop (five percent) in primary homes.
The reason for the bigger drop, relates NAR spokesman Walter Molony, is because there are more “distressed” sales - sales of homes in or at risk of foreclosure amongst vacation homes.
Looking at a map devised by the National Association of Home Builders, which charts the concentration of second homes in each county, it’s indeed likely that there are higher distressed sales, since states like Florida and Arizona, both with high foreclosure numbers, also are heavy with second homes, notes Daniel McCue, research manager at the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies.
But in upscale Naples, Fla., while there has been roughly a 50 percent drop in values from the peak last decade, the drop isn’t really due to distress, contends Tom Doyle of Sun Realty, in Naples. Rather, the drop stems from “an oversupply of housing
The second-home market has taken a hit in recent years. Yet, the home-away-from-home might be the thing for some buyers
cont. on pg. 9
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NO LISTINg AgREEmENT, NOW WHAT?
QUESTION: Our agent recently sold our investment
property. We did not have a listing agreement. We got an offer on the property, but did not agree on a commission, as we had no listing agreement. the commission was outlined at closing. We requested a copy of the listing agreement, but our agent will not provide one to us. Will the agent have to reimburse us for the
fees associated with the sale?
ANSWER:Real estate rules vary by
state, but even if an unwritten arrangement is allowed it’s
unclear why anyone would want one.
For instance: What was the listing price? What was the commission rate? Was the washing machine included in the sale offer? When did the listing period end? When was the commission earned, due and payable? the answers are all debatable without a written agreement.
you also say you sold the property. Was a real estate commission established within the sale agreement? If yes, was the amount sought at closing by the broker any different?
Verbal listing agreements are a danger to both owners and brokers. everyone is best served with a clearly written agreement that outlines the broker’s obligations, the offering terms, the length of the agreement and compensation for performance.
as to what will happen, you’ll now need the advice of a local real estate attorney - a cost that could have been avoided with a written listing.
QUESTION: Can I use social security income to
qualify for an FHa mortgage?
ANSWER:yes. as HUD explains it:“Retirement and social security income
require verification from the source (former employer, social security administration) or federal tax returns. If any benefits expire within the first full three years, the income source may be considered only as a compensating factor. Direct compensation, such as for a service-related disability, is acceptable, subject to documentation from the Va. education benefits, used to offset education expenses, are not acceptable.”
Q&A ASk OUR BROkERBy Peter G. Miller
Record-low interest rates and record-low housing prices are renewing interest in the fl oundering housing market for many people. “When sellers are interviewing real estate agents to market their homes, their primary focus is usually on the advertising that the agent will offer them,” says Jessica Goodbody of Weichert Realtors.Let us help you meet your marketing goals by advertising your listings in Real Estate Weekly.
Now could be the time to sell a new home and earn a slice of the real estate pie.
8 January 13, 2012 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly January 13, 2012 9
built during the boom,” Doyle says.The downward pressure on
today’s second-home market offers lessons for tomorrow’s buyer.
For one, don’t think of buying a vacation home, “unless you really want one and can afford it,” relates Michael Dubis, a Madison, Wis., financial planner. “Affording” means that you can pay the second home’s mortgage and expenses while also easily funding retirement, education, and other necessary expenses.
Additionally, properties tend to hold value better in areas that have limited land for new building, notes Tom Kelly, co-author of “How A Second Home Can Be Your Best Investment” (McGraw-Hill, 2004).
Moreover, well-known vacation destinations, ideally offering four-season recreation, usually can be easily rented, adds Kelly, offering income to the property owners if they need it.
Taxing MattersWhile second home values have
declined to levels many believe are at or near bottom, Robert Dietz, an NAHB economist, worries about politicians talking about eliminating the deductibility of mortgage interest on second homes.
In tracking the concentration of second homes, the NAHB finds that 339 counties in the U.S. have at least 20 percent of total housing being second residences, and 26 counties have at least half their total composed of second homes. The leading counties are Hinsdale County, Colo., with 86
percent; Forest County, Pa., with 75 percent; Rich County, Utah, with 73 percent; and Lake County, Mich., with 69 percent.
Curtailing the interest deduction, says Dietz, could have a big negative impact on purchases, and heavily concentrated second-home areas would especially suffer.
However, not everyone agrees that the interest deduction is a big incentive to buyers. “It’s mainly personal - they want the home,” says Bob Waun, managing director at Americor Mortgage/Vacation Finance in Birmingham, Mich.
The 2010 NAR second-home research finds that 14 percent of buyers think tax benefits are important.
Good Timing“Rates are super-low,” notes
financial planner Dubis. “Property values are down, and there’s tons of supply.”
Usually conservative about real-estate investing, Dubis relates that even he “has looked out of curiosity” at the many vacation homes now listed.
Buying now may mean your home’s value will increase, but only if you have a very long-term horizon, he believes.
Think of the home as a vacation opportunity, not investment, he cautions. And only buy if the fun is worth the possibility of losing money, Dubis concludes.
3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernonwww.skagittraditionrealty.com
360.424.0300 or 360.853.8888
Sedro-Woolley $139,000
Double wide manufactured home on 1.13 acres. Mature landscaping with fruit trees, full fencing, double garage and outbuildings. MLS#301187
Mount Vernon $65,000
Custom park model w/custom cabinetry, extra windows and all appliances. Space rent is $405. MLS#307281
Sedro-Woolley $75,000
Small home with covered front porch and detached additional living unit. Additional unit has kitchen, studio space and bath. MLS#283343
Mount Vernon $229,900
1700+ Sq. Ft., 3 Bedroom rambler with country kitchen, masonry fi replace, double garage and garden space. ¼ plus acre lot. MLS#307231
THE vACATION HOmE mARkET cont. from pg. 7
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REDUCED: Mobile Homein beautiful Park Village,Mount Vernon. 1248 sq. ft.3 Bdrm, 2 Ba, open floorplan, large bedrooms, stor-age shed, newer roof andfurnace. Many upgrades.$19,650. 360-319-4274
THREE 1 ACRE LOTSNEAR LYMAN.
12 miles east of I-5. Se-cluded – surrounded bywildlife areas. Ready tobuild. View is sensational.The value is in the view –come look. Make an offer –Terms available. No worryof flooding.
Call 360-826-3389
1 acre wooded lotReady to build. Well water.12 miles East of I-5 nearLyman, Skagit County. Pro-tective covenants. Comelook. 360-826-3389 for ap-pointment. $74,500. Termsif qualified.
Prof. office space, 1000+sq. ft. on Riverside Dr., MV.Move in ready, available now.$900/mo. 928-505-2730 or360-595-2611
Spacious 3 bdrm, 1.5 baunits, W/D hook-ups, singlegarage, gas heat, on 1+acre in a parklike setting.W/S/G pd., $1000/mo. +dep. Background/credit ck.$45, Skagit Tradition RealtyLLC, Danya Wolf, broker360-708-8294. Sandy Ev-erett, broker 360-202-3706
2 Bdrm, 1 Ba, 4-plex, up-stairs unit, gas heat, newpaint, single car garage, nopets, no smoke, 1017 BCrestview Ln., MV. $695 +$600 damage dep. Creditcheck. Call Joe 360-424-4886.
WINTER SPECIALMount Vernon 2 & 3
bdrm duplexPrivate, quiet setting, allnew. All appliances, W/S/Gincl. Only $795, $855, $895& $925/mo. Call 206-409-9317 or 206-849-3334.
10 January 13, 2012 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly January 13, 2012 1110 January 13, 2012 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly
REDUCED: Mobile Homein beautiful Park Village,Mount Vernon. 1248 sq. ft.3 Bdrm, 2 Ba, open floorplan, large bedrooms, stor-age shed, newer roof andfurnace. Many upgrades.$19,650. 360-319-4274
THREE 1 ACRE LOTSNEAR LYMAN.
12 miles east of I-5. Se-cluded – surrounded bywildlife areas. Ready tobuild. View is sensational.The value is in the view –come look. Make an offer –Terms available. No worryof flooding.
Call 360-826-3389
1 acre wooded lotReady to build. Well water.12 miles East of I-5 nearLyman, Skagit County. Pro-tective covenants. Comelook. 360-826-3389 for ap-pointment. $74,500. Termsif qualified.
Prof. office space, 1000+sq. ft. on Riverside Dr., MV.Move in ready, available now.$900/mo. 928-505-2730 or360-595-2611
Spacious 3 bdrm, 1.5 baunits, W/D hook-ups, singlegarage, gas heat, on 1+acre in a parklike setting.W/S/G pd., $1000/mo. +dep. Background/credit ck.$45, Skagit Tradition RealtyLLC, Danya Wolf, broker360-708-8294. Sandy Ev-erett, broker 360-202-3706
2 Bdrm, 1 Ba, 4-plex, up-stairs unit, gas heat, newpaint, single car garage, nopets, no smoke, 1017 BCrestview Ln., MV. $695 +$600 damage dep. Creditcheck. Call Joe 360-424-4886.
WINTER SPECIALMount Vernon 2 & 3
bdrm duplexPrivate, quiet setting, allnew. All appliances, W/S/Gincl. Only $795, $855, $895& $925/mo. Call 206-409-9317 or 206-849-3334.
REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly January 13, 2012 11
3 bdrm in Concrete, regu-lar size lot, fully fencedyard, storage shed, noflood zone, $29,000. obo.Sold as is. 360-420-7220
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. It has a storage shedtoo. With qualified Bank loanthe monthly payment is $750,this includes the mortgage,space rent, garbage & sewer.The community is also petfriendly. This is an all agepark. 600 N Reed st #50. Call360-333-3110
New Mount Vernon Home2281 S. 19th Street
2000 sq. ft. rambler on10,000 sq. ft. lotVery quiet, secluded, S.Mount Vernon area3 bdrm/den, 2 ½ bathsGranite countertops,stainless appliancesOpen floor planMaster suite featuressoaking tub, doublevanities, double showerClose to schools, shop-ping, easy I-5 accessNearing completion,call builder direct.
$325,000Brokers protected.
Legacy Home BuildersCharlie Ash 360-770-7678
www.legacyhb.net
Condo warehouse space.18'x60'. All amenities. Se-curity. Call Rick, 360-319-7359
Rock QuarrySkagit County rock quarrysupplying aggregate countywide. Includes 23+ acres,crushers, loaders, permits,and accounts. Call for moreInfo (360) 201-8886 A.R.E.REALTY
Professional, medical,dental office space forlease or sale, 1500 sq. ft.,near Island Hospital in An-cortes. (360) 293-6998
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.
24442 WICKER RD, #40, SDW $29,000One of the largest homes in the community. 3 bed-rooms, 2 baths, 1848 sq.ft. Very well kept all age com-munity with affordable space rent. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #28487911453 BAYVIEW-EDISON RD., #23 MV $39,888 Fantastic 2008 Fleetwood in pristine condition with Padilla Bay views. Master with step-in-shower. Guest room, additional full bath. Large cedar deck. Open kitchen with all appliances. Call Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #220167700 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 shop-ping & all services. Call Rita Ingram at 708-8338. #275029807 W. HAZEL, MV $79,500Loads 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. #26650094 WILLOW LN, MV $108,999Great starter or rental home on dead-end street. Over 1/4 acre lot with a carport/storage shed & RV park-ing. New roof & paint. More info. at skagitvalleyhomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #2850141710 SKYLINE WAY, #105, ANA $120,000The 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. #2539522819 CLUB CT., #117, MV $124,950A very nice 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath condo. 1 car attached garage. HOA dues cover exterior maintenance, water, sewer, garbage & cable. Community amenities include tennis & racquet ball courts & indoor pool. Quiet neighborhood with easy access for commuting. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #3015054733 MT. BAKER LOOP, MV $194,900Skagit Highlands resale! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, nice corner lot. Features include large rooms with many living areas, den on main floor, large pantry/laundry room. There is also a bonus room with closet upstairs. Call Lee Ann Dean at 421-3082 or Karine Anderson at 421-1189. #286800101 N. 30TH ST, MV $229,900Large 4 bedroom Homestead home built in 2002. New interior paint & nearly new carpeting, 3 living areas, main floor master with separate entrance, fenced back yard with patio & beautiful landscaping, Pergo flooring & much more. Call Jim Glackin at 428-2828. #28836041947 CHALLENGER RD, CON $231,500Charming 1354 sq.ft. log home nestled in the woods. Over 29 acres, some acreage in forestry. This home is rustic with nice Southern exposure. Call Lee Ann Dean at 421-3082 or Karine Anderson at 421-1189. #302892
18653 BLACKBERRY LN, MV $239,900Enjoy beautiful views of Big Lake from a private cov-ered deck or from the picture windows that surround this gorgeous 1760 sq.ft. home. Open floor plan with vaulted ceilings. Fully finished lower level. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #2751656751 WORLINE RD, BOW $269,000Great home on .75 acres located in Bow & out of the 100 yr flood plain! Many updates throughout including all new kitchen. Shop, deck, patio, RV parking with full hook-ups. More photos at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #2826137110 STEELHEAD LN, BRL $279,000Lovely 1 level home nestled along the Samish River with 73+/- ft of high-bank riverfront. 4 bedrooms, 2.25 baths. Many upgrades. New exterior paint. Covered patio & gazebo. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #2439042340 CROSBY DR, MV $279,9004 bedrooms, 3 baths with over 3700 sq.ft. of living space. Western valley & sunset views. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #2417643319 E. SECTION ST., MV $284,990Spacious & sunny home with a great floor plan. Nice kitchen/family room combo with a fireplace. Main floor master suite plus a bonus room upstairs & 3 more bed-rooms. Big 3-car garage. Call Robin Luif 420-2026. #27117721737 STERLING DR., SDW $339,9001-level home on 1 acre, 4 bedrooms, den, living & family rooms, formal dining, 2 fireplaces, 3 baths. Court yard with hot tub, tennis court, 2 car attached garage, detached shop & large outbuilding. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #26605817766 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. #284524125 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 land-scaped. Call Sarah Minton at 770-3076. #28532915314 COTTONWOOD LN, MV $565,000Beautiful resident in the heart of the valley. Shy 5 acres with sprawling rambler, barn with 6 stalls, fully fenced/cross fenced with huge outdoor arena. Huge shop in addition to office/guest quarters. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #30085024116 N. WESTVIEW RD, BIG LAKE $769,385Beautiful custom waterfront home, approx. 80’ front-age, unobstructed views of lake, 2900+/- SF. Large family room with gas stove. 4 bedrooms & 4+ bathrooms. 1000 ft. of deck overlooking huge dock with new floats & boat lift. Call George Bellos at 708-9762. #285378
SATURDAY 12-32630 Club Ct, Mt Vernon2400 Stonebridge Wy, Mt Vernon2518 Stonebridge Wy, Mt VernonFor Deta i ls and d i rect ions,v is i t openhouse.com.
•LOADED W/PRIVACY, LG. COVERED PATIO, BACK OF CUL-DE-SAC, “STAND ALONE” CONDO!
OPEN SAT. 12-3
15280 STATE ROUTE 530, CONCRETE $264,500
•TOTAL PRIVACY ON 4.25 ACRES, CLOSE TO CONCRETE JUST 10 MINUTES FROM TOWN •APPROX. 600 FT. OF
RIVERFRONT, GREAT FISHING! PASTURE, STABLE, “SHORT SALE” •3 BD., 3 BA., 2450 SQ. FT., 4 CAR GAR., LG.
HEATED SHOP!
BY APPOINTMENT, EASY TO VIEW
11365 WESTERN LANE, SEDRO WOOLLEY $234,500
•”ABOVE” CLEAR LAKE, SECLUDED YET CLOSE TO TOWN, FENCED/CROSS FENCED 5 ACRES •STABLE, OUTBUILDINGS + HUGE SHOP W/HIGH DOORS, CLOSE TO RIDING TRAILS
•3 BD., 2 BA., 1670 SQ. FT. MANUFACTURED HOME, “SHORT SALE” VALUE , CALL TODAY!
BY APPOINTMENT, EASY TO VIEW
1601 FOREST DRIVE, MT. VERNON $278,400
•2356 SQ. FT. W/LG. FAMILY/BONUS RM., HUGE LIVING/DINING RM W/GAS FPL., GAS HEAT! •3 BD., 2 BA., SUNROOM, HOT TUB, OVERSIZE 700+ SQ. FT. DET.
GARAGE/SHOP •”SHY” HALF ACRE, LOADED W/PRIVACY & CLOSE IN CONVENIENCE!!
BY APPOINTMENT, EASY TO VIEW
2725 E. FIR ST. #74, (PARK VILLAGE) MT. VERNON $30,000
•QUIET, TOTALLY AFFORDABLE 55+ PARK LIVING , CLOSE TO CLUB HOUSE, R.V. PARKING! •3 BD., 2 BA., EXTRA OPEN/SPACIOUS KITCHEN & NOOK •SEP. FORMAL DINING ROOM,
HUGE FAMILY RM. W/WOOD AIR-TIGHT STOVE
BY APPOINTMENT, EASY TO VIEW
2725 E. FIR ST., #55, (PARK VILLAGE) MT. VERNON $21,500