Real Estate Weekly | March 16, 2012

MARCH 16 - 22TWENTY-TWELVEFREE

RealEstateweeklyRESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE 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

MOUNT VERNON’S “STONEBRIDGE 55+ “ quality built home featuring 1368SF of single level living with beautiful hardwood fl oors throughout spacious living room with natural gas log fi replace and sunny day view of Mount Baker; separate dining area; two generous sized bedrooms and a den. Kitchen offers paneled oak cabinets, all appliances, lots of light and walk in pantry. Master suite offers second bath with walk in shower with seating, and spacious walk in closet. Private covered deck off of living room provides an excellent view and place to enjoy one’s morning newspaper. Laundry room has a deep sink, cabinet storage; and a solar skylight! Double garage has 484SF plus a pull down ladder for much additional storage. Walking trail plus just three minutes by vehicle to grocery store and pharmacy and just fi ve minutes to Skagit Valley Hospital. $185,000

FEATURED ARTICLE:

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

Danya WolfListing Agent

(360)708-8294

OWNERSHIP: REMODELING REVISITED With more homeowners staying put, the new focus is on projects that add value for them, not the next owner. In the pre-economic meltdown days before 2008 or so, homeowners often didn’t worry about how much money they spent on remodeling projects. (cont. on pg. 6)

HOME IMPROVEMENTS ELIGIBLE FOR TAX BREAKS OR REBATESPAGE 3

OWNERSHIP:REMODELING REVISITEDPAGES 4-5

RESTORING YOUR PROPERTY AFTER A LONG WINTERPAGE 6

SOLAR POWER MISCONCEPTIONSPAGE 7

Q&A: ‘STRATEGIC’ PLAN NOT WORKING?PAGE 7

SHOP OFF-SEASON FOR MAJOR IMPROVEMENTSPAGE 8

PUT THESE HOME IMPROVEMENTS ON YOUR 2012 CALENDARPAGE 9

CLASSIFIEDSPAGE 10-11

2 March 16, 2012 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly March 16, 2012 3

TABLE of CONTENTSHome improvements eligible for tax breaks or rebates Pg. 3OWNERSHIP: Remodeling Revisited Pg. 4-5Restoring your property after a long winter Pg. 6Solar power misconceptions Pg. 7Q & A: ‘Strategic’ plan not working? Pg. 7Shop off-season for major improvements Pg. 8Put these home improvements on your 2012 calendar Pg. 9Classifieds 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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RealEstateweekly

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7Pg.

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

Pete McDougalBroker

708-6500

Amber Soria

969-4030

“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 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

Burlington $449,000Stunning Home with Spectacular View!. This 3600 sq. ft. home has 4 bedrooms, 2.75 baths. Open Floor Plan. 2 Fireplaces. Perched on top of Burlington Hill with panoramic views of the Valley. Professionally Landscaped. Lifetime tile Roof and stucco exterior. MLS # 330503

Call Debbie, 708-8780

PRICE REDUCED

Burlington $284,500Desirable Burlington Neighborhood. 3 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths. Large bonus room. Fully fenced backyard. Awesome waterfall and landscaping. RV parking site. #293347

Call Jim, 708-1681

Burlington $159,000The Cedars Condo “Stand Alone Home.” 2 bedroom, 1.75 baths. Kitchen with center island. Slider to patio. 2 car attached garage. 1113 sq. ft. with natural gas forced air heat. MLS#261718

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

Burlington $ 199,000Burlington rambler near schools & shopping. Easy I-5 access, bus route nearby. 3 bedroom, 1 ¼ bath, 1472 sq. ft. Double sided wood burning fi replace in living room. Large bonus room. Excel-lent investment, long term tenant paying $900 per month. #324249

Call Wilma, 661-1631

Mount Vernon $205,900Beautiful 2576 sq. ft. Mount Vernon home in Thunderbird. 5 bd/2 ¼ bath located in a great neighborhood. 1/3 acre lot comes w/ a sport court, fruit trees & incredible views of the Valley. Won’t last at this price! MLS #328184

Call Amber 969-4030 or Dan 360-348-6655Call Mike 540-1341

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

Burlington $129,900Solid 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

NEW LISTING

Mount Vernon $145,000Absolutely incredible Big Lake & Mtn views galore. 3 bd/2 ba view home. Generous kitchen equipped w/ skylights, and island. Huge master suite w/ French doors. Vaulted ceilings and big deck. MLS #299294

Call Amber, 969-4030 or Dan, 360-348-6655

PRICE REDUCED

NEW LISTING

PRICE REDUCED


Home improvements eligible for tax breaks or rebates

Homeowners often look to make improvements to their homes to improve aesthetics, save money or make their homes more energy efficient. What they may not know is that certain home improvements may qualify them for manufacturer or energy supplier rebates and even federal tax credits that can help a person save even more.

Not all products are eligible each year, so it’s beneficial to know what tax incentives are out there regarding home retrofits. Here are some programs to keep in mind.

In Canada, the ecoenergy Retrofit -- Homes program has been extended until March 31, 2012. Owners of most homes, including four-season recreational properties and low-rise multi-unit residential buildings of three stories or less with at least 50 percent residential space, might be

eligible, according to Natural Resources Canada. applicants can receive a federal grant for up to $5,000. Owners of multiple dwellings can receive up to $1,000,000. eligible improvements include heating and cooling systems, ventilation systems, hot water equipment, insulation, air sealing, windows/doors/skylights, and water conservation products.

Installation of insulation and other energy-saving products could make you eligible for a tax rebate.

U.s. residents who made home improvements in 2011 may be eligible for tax credits when filing a 2011 tax return. Installation and replacement of biomass stoves, HVaC systems, insulation, metal and asphalt roofs, nonsolar water heaters and windows/doors can earn a person up to 10 percent of the cost, up to $500, or a specific amount from $50 to $300. Improvements must have been done to an existing home and principal residence by December 31, 2011.

Federal tax credits for 2012 include geothermal heat pumps. these are similar to ordinary heat pumps, but use the ground instead of outside air to provide heating, air conditioning and, in most cases, hot water. Use of small residential wind turbines and solar energy systems, including solar water heaters and photovoltaic panels, are also eligible. these tax credits offer 30 percent of the cost of the renovation with no upper limit.

Visit http://energy.gov/savings to determine any additional rebate and savings programs that may be offered in your state.

Homeowners looking to do improvements can go online or consult with a tax professional to determine which improvements may be eligible for tax credits or incentives. With the energy saved and the credit, it could add up to considerable savings on the new product.

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

“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 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

Burlington $449,000Stunning Home with Spectacular View!. This 3600 sq. ft. home has 4 bedrooms, 2.75 baths. Open Floor Plan. 2 Fireplaces. Perched on top of Burlington Hill with panoramic views of the Valley. Professionally Landscaped. Lifetime tile Roof and stucco exterior. MLS # 330503

Call Debbie, 708-8780

PRICE REDUCED

Burlington $284,500Desirable Burlington Neighborhood. 3 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths. Large bonus room. Fully fenced backyard. Awesome waterfall and landscaping. RV parking site. #293347

Call Jim, 708-1681

Burlington $159,000The Cedars Condo “Stand Alone Home.” 2 bedroom, 1.75 baths. Kitchen with center island. Slider to patio. 2 car attached garage. 1113 sq. ft. with natural gas forced air heat. MLS#261718

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

Burlington $ 199,000Burlington rambler near schools & shopping. Easy I-5 access, bus route nearby. 3 bedroom, 1 ¼ bath, 1472 sq. ft. Double sided wood burning fi replace in living room. Large bonus room. Excel-lent investment, long term tenant paying $900 per month. #324249

Call Wilma, 661-1631

Mount Vernon $205,900Beautiful 2576 sq. ft. Mount Vernon home in Thunderbird. 5 bd/2 ¼ bath located in a great neighborhood. 1/3 acre lot comes w/ a sport court, fruit trees & incredible views of the Valley. Won’t last at this price! MLS #328184

Call Amber 969-4030 or Dan 360-348-6655Call Mike 540-1341

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

Burlington $129,900Solid 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

NEW LISTING

Mount Vernon $145,000Absolutely incredible Big Lake & Mtn views galore. 3 bd/2 ba view home. Generous kitchen equipped w/ skylights, and island. Huge master suite w/ French doors. Vaulted ceilings and big deck. MLS #299294

Call Amber, 969-4030 or Dan, 360-348-6655

PRICE REDUCED

NEW LISTING

PRICE REDUCED


ownership

In the pre-economic meltdown days before 2008 or so, homeowners often didn’t worry about how much money they spent on

remodeling projects. Many thought there would always be another buyer, and one eager for their chef ’s kitchen and spa bathroom.

But according to Remodeling magazine’s “2011-2012 Cost v. Value Report,” more homeowners are remodeling differently, emphasizing on projects that offer higher investment returns. “The trends we’ve seen in the last two years reflect the need-to-do versus want-to-do projects, possibly, because money is tighter and many were postponed,” says Sal Alfano, Remodeling’s editorial director.

High on the list, for example, are replacing garage and entry doors, siding and windows, Alfano says. “We don’t differentiate in the survey whether it’s sellers or buyers making changes, but buyers

definitely have an expectation that parts and systems of a house they buy will be fixed. If not, they often ask for a discount,” Alfano says.

The good news for sellers – and buyers – is that most replacement projects run under $20,000. “Less than a new car,” says Alfano. For example, vinyl siding in a mid-range project costs $11,000 with 68 percent recouped; a fiberglass entry door can be replaced for $3,500 and yield 56 percent return.

Two projects whose popularity has soared – and which can be costly but deliver greater paybacks – are adding an attic bedroom and finishing a basement.

The Remodeling report put the bedroom attic at a $50,000 cost with a 72.5 percent return, and the basement at a $64,000 cost for a 67 percent return. “Both are the least expensive way to add living space within a home’s footprint without securing permits or building a foundation,” Alfano says. “We don’t have direct evidence, but either might appeal to families whose college kids return while job searching or multi-generational families living together.”

For sellers looking to make quick improvements before listing, Alfano recommends tried-and-true favorites that “increase a good first impression” such as painting, removing dated carpeting, and tidying landscaping. Chicago contractor Tom Madalinski of Fresh Look Construction in Des Plaines, agrees, noting: “If owners have a killer kitchen but the living room looks terrible and needs painting, that’s going to detract. Instead of one big ‘pow,’ they should opt for clean, simple, fresh.”

A minor kitchen remodel – under $20,000 – can still make a big difference and offer a healthy 72 percent return. Favorite changes relate to better storage and an island addition, says Adi Tatarko, co-founder of Houzz, a showcase website and app for design resources.

RemodelingWith more homeowners staying put, the new focus is

• The bedroom attic at a $50,000 cost with a 72.5 percent return

• The basement at a $64,000 cost for a 67 percent return


OPEN HOUSES & SHOWCASES

Buyers, many of whom aren’t getting their dream house by taking advantage of plentiful inventory and low mortgage rates, first should improve poor performers; Madalinksi says that replacing or

refinishing floors is “huge.”

For many there’s a change in mind-set, says Connecticut architect Duo Dickinson, author of “Staying Put” (Taunton Press, 2011). Because they may not be able to sell later, they should zero in on changes that most appeal to them, though they shouldn’t go too far from mainstream. Wine cellars and media rooms now hold less appeal, says Barb St. Amant with Harry Norman, Realtors, in Atlanta.

For this group, that minor kitchen redo makes sense. Chicago architect Allan J. Grant advises going with more affordable materials – porcelain

tile rather than stone or semi-custom rather than custom cabinets. Contractor Ian Wheeler of Norwell Design Build in Palo Alto, Calif., says his firm often gets calls from clients, especially after holidays, saying, “’Everyone congregated in the kitchen, and we couldn’t accommodate them. Can you work on the plan?’ That may mean taking down a wall.”

Tatarko agrees that’s the right approach. “None of the projects offer a 100-percent return; they all lose money,

so homeowners should do what makes the best, long-term impact on their lives.”

For Tatarko, that led her and her husband to add on to the house they bought for its location and school district. “It was expensive, but what we needed.”

ownershipRevisitedon projects that add value for them, not the next owner

• A minor kitchen remodel – under $20,000 – can offer a healthy 72 percent return

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

360.424.0300 or 360.853.8888

Nicely cared for 3 bedroom, 1.75 bath rambler. Country kitchen boasts lots of wood cabinetry, full pantry, and breakfast bar. Find generous sized rooms throughout complete with a 525 square foot garage. Lovely tiered yard on over ¼ acre with garden space and fruit trees. MLS# 307231

102 N. 38th Place, Mount Vernon $210,000509 Shady Lane, Mount Vernon $179,000

Wonderful Stonebridge Villa home with 2 bedrooms, 1 ¾ baths, den, vaulted ceilings in great room, gas fi replace with custom mantle, walk-in master closet and patio off master and living

room. “55 & Better” community features walking paths, clubhouse and secured RV parking. MLS# 318726

Danya Wolf 360-708-8294


One of the best things about the dawn of spring and the return of warmer weather is the chance to get out of the house and get some fresh air. For homeowners, this is the perfect opportunity to assess any damage the previous months did to yards and develop a plan to restore properties.

• Don’t jump the gun. the first warm day of spring might seem like a great time to get out in the yard and get your hands dirty. But it’s best to wait until the grass has completely dried out before getting to work. Raking on wet grass increases the risk of tearing out grass, which can cause bald spots and the growth of weeds down the road. In addition, stepping on the grass while the ground is still wet can compact the soil, which can slow drainage and block the lawn’s roots from breathing.

Patience should prevail with regard to mowing the lawn as well. a lawn’s roots will not start to grow until the average everyday temperature routinely

reaches 40ºF, so mowing too early is both unnecessary and potentially harmful to the lawn. When the temperatures regularly reach 50ºF, then homeowners will likely start to see their lawns growing.

• Remove debris that’s piled up. Debris has a tendency to infest a yard over the course of the winter months. Fallen branches, stones and even trash can accumulate in a yard, putting those who spend time in the yard at risk of injury once the warm weather returns. For instance, bits of twigs and pebbles that are blown across the yard during a windy winter can be embedded in the yard, making the yard less of a haven and more of a hazard. Once the

grass is dry enough to walk on, walk around the property and remove any debris that’s piled up over the last few months.

• Employ a pre-emergent weed killer. Homeowners who routinely spend their summers agonizing over weeds throughout the yard should consider applying a pre-emergent weed killer around the beginning of spring. It’s important to do so around the end of March or early april, when the weeds have not yet had a chance to grow. When applying, follow the dosage instructions provided by the product’s manufacturer. such instructions often recommend a second application right before summer begins.

• Remove thatch. Once the grass has dried, you can begin to remove thatch that’s built up over the winter. thatch is potentially very harmful to soil, blocking sunlight, air and moisture the soil needs to ensure a lawn looks lush and healthy. thatch removal does not necessarily need to be an annual task. If thatch buildup is insignificant, then it can be done every other year. Just use a dethatching rake to make the job much easier.

• Aerate, particularly if the yard is a heavy traffic area once the warm weather arrives. If your yard transforms into a child’s wonderland upon the arrival of spring and summer, you might want to revive the soil by aerating. When the yard gets heavy usage, it’s easy for soil to become compacted, which makes it hard for air and water to reach the lawn’s roots. that can eventually make for a less-than-appealing lawn. so if your yard is the place to be come the warmer months, aerate in the spring to loosen the soil and make it easier for the lawn to withstand the months ahead.

No matter how harsh the winter months might have been, spring is a great time for homeowners to restore the property around their homes.

Restoring your property after a long winter


‘STRATEgIC’ PLAN NOT WORkINg

QUESTION: I have a strategic default. My house has a

$320,000 mortgage, and the current value is about $190,000. It is foolish for me to make payments, and I have not made a payment since January 2011. I have told the lender the house is theirs and to notify me when to move out. However, if they’re willing to give me a new mortgage based on the current appraised value, I will consider it. they refuse to deal with me in any way. any advice?

ANSWER:a “strategic default” means you have the

ability to make mortgage payments but elect

not to do so. By “walking away” you have defaulted on the loan and now want a lender to make you a new and better offer.

Why would the lender offer new financing? Based on your record you might again walk away if property values continue to fall. and if you can walk when home prices go down then would it be unfair for a lender to unilaterally increase your debt if property values increased?

Unfortunately the new reality is that many parties in the financing process do not meet their obligations. In his new book, “Way too Big to Fail,” William a. Frey – a broker-dealer who has sold mortgage-backed securities worth billions of dollars – says many in the mortgage field “are choosing to ignore their contracts. this is true of homeowners, servicers and banks, and though they were never participants

in the deals, even politicians are ignoring the contracts that underlie mortgage securitizations.”

“Voluntary defaults,” adds Frey, “are particularly troublesome because the collective action of millions of borrowers who have the ability to pay but choose not to is dragging down the value of U.s. real estate and the economy as a whole.”

Given today’s mortgage rates it likely would have been better to make payments and refinance. such a strategy would have allowed you to keep the property and substantially reduce your costs.

Q&A ASk OUR BROkERBy Peter G. Miller

Solar energy, provided through various methods of harnessing the power of the sun, is something that interests many eco-conscious homeowners for its ability to cut down on the amount of electricity needed from another source. However, there are certain myths and misconceptions that surround solar power.

• Many people think that a northern climate or an area where there is not a lot of sun is incompatible

with solar energy. However, you don’t need to live on the equator to benefit from solar energy. Germany is the world leader in solar photovoltaic energy with more than 9,000 Megawatts produced, even though Germany is not known for sunny skies or warm temperatures.

• Solar panels and solar collectors are not the same thing. Typically, solar panels immediately turn

harnessed sunlight into electricity. Collectors will trap and store sunlight as heat, which can be used later.

• Many people avoid solar energy, feeling it is too expensive. While it can be a big financial investment, there are estimates that the cost of installment is recouped in 1 to 4 years, depending on the panels used. There also may be government incentives for using solar power.

Solar power misconceptions

average sales price added to a home when solar panels are installed.

source: National Bureau of economic Research study

STAT LET IT SHINE

$20,194


An often overlooked side-effect of the recession is that many people cannot afford to move and have decided to stick with the home they have and make desired improvements. Thanks to off-season discounts, some months of the year may be better than others for renovations.

The home improvement industry is not much different than any other. When demand is high, prices are generally at their peak. When demand is low, prices are lowered to entice shoppers to buy.

Right now, many homeowners may be thinking of certain improvements, such as the installation of a pool or deck, or even replacing an air conditioning system in advance of the warm weather. But it could be financially savvy to wait until the warm weather is gone to do so.

Many pool companies and stores discount their inventory considerably after September. That’s because this time of year in most of the country is when the weather starts to change and people are less likely to think about a dip in the pool. With the arrival of the new school year, many others are focusing less on pool fun and more on carpools and sporting events. Furthermore, in an effort to capitalize on both the summer and winter seasons, many pool stores double as Christmas tree and accessory outlets come the colder months. That means they’ll need to clear out their showrooms and stock areas of pools prior to delivery of Christmas merchandise. You may land a considerable discount on the pool package. Furthermore, if you have room in a garage or shed to store the pool equipment and assembled materials, you can wait until the next season to hire an installer to set up the pool when you desire.

As you are thinking about turning down the thermostat and enjoying a blast of cool air-conditioning, it might be wise to think about the performance of

your furnace, too. While HVAC professionals and home improvement chains could be charging top dollar for a new air conditioning system, they may offer discounts on furnaces because they’re simply not in demand this time of year. If you find an affordable furnace, store the furnace until the time is right to have it installed.

The holiday season tends to be a slow time for home-improvement contractors simply because most homeowners are thinking more about shopping and entertaining than knock-down, tear-out jobs. Waiting until the end of the year for some major renovations could be advantageous.

The spring and summer are prime times for outdoor entertaining, so the addition of decks or elaborate landscaping may come at an elevated price. However, once autumn arrives, the same services may be much cheaper, depending on the job and if the contractor can secure materials at a discounted price. If you can hold off on that new deck or patio until after September, it may be in your best interest. However, if a winter installation is in your design, you may find yourself actually paying more in labor costs if inclement weather delays the installation.

Here are some other ways to save off-season.• Explore wintertime reductions on air conditioning

systems.• New appliance models released could mean year-end

reductions on that model year.• Purchase bulk topsoil and other landscaping

materials in the winter when this industry is slow.• Many pests enter a dormancy during the winter, so

exterminators may discount for termite reduction during the winter and early spring.

• Fireplace installation or chimney masonry work could be discounted during the summer months.

• The spring season is an ideal time for roofing

projects, although some contractors will work in the winter, too. Roofing companies are often tied up during the summer months and may ask for premium charges.

Keep in mind that summer is a prime time for any and all improvements. Beat the prices and the wait time by shopping off-season for your renovations.

Shop off-season for major improvements


With the deepfreeze factor at its annual high, the potential benefits of making energy saving improvements really hit home. Yet saving energy and money and adding comfort to your home should always be in season. Industry experts recommend you put these home improvement tips on your 2012 calendar:

PUT THESE HOmE ImPROvEmENTS ON yOUR 2012 CALENdAR

Winter• Install affordable plastic window-

sealing kits, especially where you feel drafts.

• Install foam gaskets behind electrical outlets and switches to reduce air leakage.

• Close the fireplace damper tightly when it’s not in use. If you use your fireplace regularly, consider adding a well-designed insert.

• Replace or clean furnace filters at least once every three months.

Spring• Consider larger home improvements,

like replacing windows that are best completed when the weather is nice. Consider adding spray foam insulation to your attic or in other areas of your home where the summer heat can infiltrate. You can start saving up to 50 percent in energy costs all year long.

• Is your air conditioner old or on its last legs? Before things heat up, consider investing in an energy efficient Energy Star-rated unit. Consult an expert to ensure the size of the unit is properly matched to the needs of your home.

Summer• Add window coverings to block

sunlight during the day, so your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard.

• Replace inefficient incandescent lighting with more efficient compact fluorescent or LED lighting that also produce less heat.

• Check your hot water tank. If it’s warm to the touch, it might need some extra insulation. Check your home improvement store for inexpensive pre-cut tank jackets or blankets.

Fall• Check insulation levels where you

can, like the attic or the floor of a room over the garage. If you didn’t get to it in the spring, install spray foam insulation to seal around openings and penetrations that let air flow in and out of your home.

• Use caulking, sealant and weather-stripping to create a barrier against air and water around doorframes, windows and baseboards. Choose the right caulking for the surface.

• Insulate your hot water pipes to reduce heat loss. It may enable you to reduce the temperature setting on your hot water tank.

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 in Real Estate Weekly.

Now could be the time to sell a new home and earn

a slice of the real estate pie.

RealEstateweeklyCall 360.416.2180 today!

[email protected] print and online goskagit.com

10 March 16, 2012 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly March 16, 2012 1110 March 16, 2012 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly

READY FOR BUSINESS!Prime Riverside Dr $319,000Paved 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 shopdoor with garage door open-er. Upstairs office has view ofentire sale lot. Land Use (550)RETAIL/AUTO/TIRES/MARINECRAFT/AIRCRAFT & AC-CESS. Neighborhood (6R9)AUTO SALES/SERVICE FA-CILITIES. Reduced Price$319,000. Contact: Terry Minor Email:[email protected]: 360-428-5040 Website with photos :http://cmrvs.com/cmsale

Professional, medical,dental office space forlease or sale, 1500 sq. ft.,near Island Hospital in An-cortes. (360) 293-6998

Open House Sat. 12-4Park Village

2725 E. Fir #12REDUCED: Mobile Homein beautiful Park Village,55+ park, Mount Vernon.1248 sq. ft. 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba,open floor plan, large bed-rooms, storage shed, new-er roof and furnace. Manyupgrades. $19,650. 360-319-4274.

ATTENTION: If you are theowner of an older manufac-tured home, are you awarethe you may qualify for anew Manufactured Homeusing a REVERSE MORT-GAGE WITH NO MONTHLYPAYMENTS. Call the“Home Pros” at Manufac-turing Housing Resourceinformation, 360-855-2214.

RESTAURANT BUILDINGLEASE

Restaurant building for leasein Historic Heart of Stan-wood's west end. 425-760-1399

Big Lake RV Resort:$400/mo. W/S pd. Boatlaunch, dock 360-422-6206

DAFFODIL COURT$800.

W/S/G/basic cable pd. W/D. Call for details. 856-6652

RENTALSHouses & Apartments.

See our listings atwww.skagitrentals.comRemax Property Mgmt.

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

FOR RENT: Concrete area,3 bdrm, 2 full ba, fireplace, allappliances furnished. Section8 accepted. $975/mo. 360-333-9159 or 422-5162

Burl., 2 Bdrm, 1 Ba, gasheat, W/D hook-up, carport,$850 + utils. $600/damage.No pets. 360-856-6878.

1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals.Piazza Realty Property

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

NO HIDDEN FEES!Fairhaven Manor 757-2149

Norris Place 757-30602 & 3 Bdrm Apts.

Affordable. Section 8 okay.

MV Studio, W/S/G/elect. pd.,$550/mo. Pets ok. $300/dep.360-336-5979.

Lrg. MV Hill, 2 bdrm, 1.5 ba.,D/W, W/D, garage, nosmoke/pets, $500 damage.$795/mo. 360-708-7752

Cute downtown studios,on bus line.

Great MV location $550.ASK ABOUT OUR

MOVE IN SPECIAL!360-941-6986

Concrete 1 Bdrm, $650/mo.,W/S/G incl., W/D hookups,1st & $650 dep. No smoking,no pets. very quiet, superclean. 360-853-8100

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 BdrmS.W. $595.

Laundry, manager on-site.No dogs. (360) 856-6652

1 bdrm MV. Quiet, safe, 1level, near hospital. Seniorswelcome. S. 16th & Skagit St.$690. 360-652-6560.

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

10 March 16, 2012 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly March 16, 2012 1110 March 16, 2012 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly

READY FOR BUSINESS!Prime Riverside Dr $319,000Paved 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 shopdoor with garage door open-er. Upstairs office has view ofentire sale lot. Land Use (550)RETAIL/AUTO/TIRES/MARINECRAFT/AIRCRAFT & AC-CESS. Neighborhood (6R9)AUTO SALES/SERVICE FA-CILITIES. Reduced Price$319,000. Contact: Terry Minor Email:[email protected]: 360-428-5040 Website with photos :http://cmrvs.com/cmsale

Professional, medical,dental office space forlease or sale, 1500 sq. ft.,near Island Hospital in An-cortes. (360) 293-6998

Open House Sat. 12-4Park Village

2725 E. Fir #12REDUCED: Mobile Homein beautiful Park Village,55+ park, Mount Vernon.1248 sq. ft. 3 Bdrm, 2 Ba,open floor plan, large bed-rooms, storage shed, new-er roof and furnace. Manyupgrades. $19,650. 360-319-4274.

ATTENTION: If you are theowner of an older manufac-tured home, are you awarethe you may qualify for anew Manufactured Homeusing a REVERSE MORT-GAGE WITH NO MONTHLYPAYMENTS. Call the“Home Pros” at Manufac-turing Housing Resourceinformation, 360-855-2214.

RESTAURANT BUILDINGLEASE

Restaurant building for leasein Historic Heart of Stan-wood's west end. 425-760-1399

Big Lake RV Resort:$400/mo. W/S pd. Boatlaunch, dock 360-422-6206

DAFFODIL COURT$800.

W/S/G/basic cable pd. W/D. Call for details. 856-6652

RENTALSHouses & Apartments.

See our listings atwww.skagitrentals.comRemax Property Mgmt.

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

FOR RENT: Concrete area,3 bdrm, 2 full ba, fireplace, allappliances furnished. Section8 accepted. $975/mo. 360-333-9159 or 422-5162

Burl., 2 Bdrm, 1 Ba, gasheat, W/D hook-up, carport,$850 + utils. $600/damage.No pets. 360-856-6878.

1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals.Piazza Realty Property

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

NO HIDDEN FEES!Fairhaven Manor 757-2149

Norris Place 757-30602 & 3 Bdrm Apts.

Affordable. Section 8 okay.

MV Studio, W/S/G/elect. pd.,$550/mo. Pets ok. $300/dep.360-336-5979.

Lrg. MV Hill, 2 bdrm, 1.5 ba.,D/W, W/D, garage, nosmoke/pets, $500 damage.$795/mo. 360-708-7752

Cute downtown studios,on bus line.

Great MV location $550.ASK ABOUT OUR

MOVE IN SPECIAL!360-941-6986

Concrete 1 Bdrm, $650/mo.,W/S/G incl., W/D hookups,1st & $650 dep. No smoking,no pets. very quiet, superclean. 360-853-8100

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 BdrmS.W. $595.

Laundry, manager on-site.No dogs. (360) 856-6652

1 bdrm MV. Quiet, safe, 1level, near hospital. Seniorswelcome. S. 16th & Skagit St.$690. 360-652-6560.

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

REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly March 16, 2012 11

Anita Kohl 961-7795Dawn Hardman 540-0058Duane Gish 770-9299Dominic Pettruzzelli 333-5210George Herner 840-3743Jackie Lindeman 770-9080

Jared Storrs 853-6895Jeff Dowrey 661-2161 Karl Morse 395-5405Lorie Groth 425-422-7145Margie Ernst 708-3198Marlene Deasy 661-6720

Megan Daly 206-383-4407Mike Newman 708-1419Noli Goode 630-6527Paula Margerum 220-0681 Rick Kiesser 770-1195Sandi Hocking 708-1523

Sandi 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

SATURDAY 11:00-2:003519 W 6th St, AnacortesFor Deta i ls and d i rect ions,v is i t openhouse.com.

OPEN HOUSE

$289,000 MLS#329978• RV parking • Lots of extras • Great location • New paint

$64,500 MLS#329390• Top 55 park • Immaculate 3 bdrm • Covered solarium • Garage

$184,000 MLS#274742• Turn of the century • 3 lot corner location • 3+ bedrooms • Priced to sell!!

$129,500 MLS#225091• All appliances stay • Cute yard • Great starter or rental • 2 bd, 1 ba

$105,900 • Starter home • Large deck • Fenced yard • 1 bdrm + bonus

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

$224,000 MLS#231407• Tri-plex • Great rental history • Off street parking • Several updates

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

$294,500 MLS#302054• Commercial Zoning • Lots of parking• Approx. 1/3 acre • 2 bdrm 1.5 bth

$229,000 MLS#319268• Immaculate home • Great location • 3 bedrooms • Large deck

SOLD$105,900

SOLD$105,900 • Starter home • Large deck SOLD• Starter home • Large deck • Fenced yard • 1 bdrm + bonusSOLD• Fenced yard • 1 bdrm + bonus

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

NOOKACHAMPS HILLS… In Big Lake, 4 Br, 2.5 Ba home on lg corner lot. Over 2600sf, living room, family room & rec rm. 2 car garage+2 car de-tached garage. $289,500. #320637PRIVACY & GREAT VIEWS… 72 ac. has spectacular views of Olympic Mtns, SJ Islands in distance. Has it’s own private Lake & Public water. $495,000 #264669SAMISH ISLAND… no bank w/front home on 3/4 acre. Views of Mt Baker, Samish Bay & more. Solid one level home. Shop, shared boat launch & beautiful beach. $998,000. #325202OWN YOUR BUSINESS… nice loca-tion in Burlington w/2 businesses + apt above. Just 4 yrs old. $375,000. #286418ZONED BURLINGTON.… general of-fice & misc. services allows many different uses. Check w/city. Put your business here in this great bldg. Ov-ver 2000 sf. $224,500. #277005

TWO HOMES, ONE PRICE!… Shy acre property in lovely setting near Sedro-Woolley w/3Br & 2 Br Homes. $279,500. #2669852PROPERTY jUST fOR YOU… 13+ acrces in Birdsview. 11+/- acres of beautiful pasture, mountain views & more. $169,500. #245298BURLINGTON BUILDING LOT… level lot in convenient Burlington location. Nice neighborhood close to all ser-vices. $59,500. #3281762 BDRM COTTAGE… on 1+ acres east of Sedro-Woolley. Extensive re-model, fenced. Home on PUD has ir-rigation..$115,000. #256759GREAT BURLINGTON LOCATION… Spacious 3 Br + den. Just 8 yrs old, near new condition. Lg fully fenced lot.. $249,500. #309171LOW PRICED LIVING… Upgraded mobile, newer windows, appliances, flooring & more. Covered Deck.. $17,500. #281152

360.757.60131.800.869.7084

Holly Brown-Hilts 661-5538Dick Best 770-1491Ron Wortham 661-1500Terri Heyntsen 391-0938Galen Kindred 770-7083

Shelah Inman 661-0145Fritz Inman 661-0147Jeff Ingman 202-2859Tod LeHecka 333-1032Mary Jo Reitsma 770-6013

Phil Hurtig 770-0787Tim Reichert 391-5587Jan Scally 421-5160

www.brownmcmillen.com

Evening Phone Calls Welcome

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY MARCH 17 1-3PM16573 Country Club Dr. Burlington18th Fairway, Updated Rambler. 3 BR 1.5 BA, office, rec room & much more. $297,500. #316577HOSTED BY: SHELAH INMANBIG PROPERTY… 129 wooded acres just 10 minutes from Mt Vernon. Can be divided into 6 lots. $475,000. #104177$3,000 CLOSING COSTS… for quali-fied buyer, when you purchase this deluxe 2 Br, 1.75 bath newer condo. $199,500 #283810PEACEfUL 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 #61564ALGER AND OLD 99… Corner of high traffic area (alger tavern) Ram-bler w/lots of possibilities. Rural Vil-lage Commercial zoning!.$179,000. #324553

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.

900 CARRIAGE CT, SDW $47,474Open, bright well maintained home with great floor plan, kitchen with dining area & island. All appliances stay. 1 car garage. Located in secure 55+ park with RV parking. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #236863

807 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. #266500

869 CARRIAGE CT, SDW $95,000Immaculate triple wide with 2 bedrooms, 1.75 baths, den, vaulted ceiling. Kitchen with island & maple cabinets. 10x20 insulated shop with workbench. 55+ community. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #230071

8047 AVERY LANE, SDW $149,900Nice 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

1225-1227 E. FAIRHAVEN AVE., BRL $164,900 EACHOffered as a duplex at $339,800 or individual Townhouse units for $169,900. Each unit has 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, gas fire-places, 2 car garages. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #171607

215 S. 32nd PL, MV $189,000Nice MV hilltop 3 bedroom rambler. Formal living & dining rooms, family room with gas insert & kitchen with eating island. Deck & fenced back yard. More photos & info. at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #317914

304 W. STATE ST., SDW $199,500REDUCED!! Lovely updated 4 bedroom, 2 bath home, large eating kitchen & bar. Fully fenced, low maintenance yard. Attached 2 car garage. Close to town. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #149139

1501 MEADOW LARK LN, MV $219,950 Classic rambler on spacious, private lot! Slate entry & big picture windows from the living room take in the patio & backyard. Fireplaces in family & living rooms. Call Robin Luif at 420-2026. #229760

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. #273557

455 KLICKITAT, LAC $235,000

Wonderful LaConner home featuring views over the marina, spacious rooms, open floor plan, two fireplaces, attached garage and great amenities abound. Call Sarah Minton at 770-3076. #29136416

18653 BLACKBERRY LN, MV $239,900Enjoy beautiful views of Big Lake from a private covered 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. #275165

61 ALGER CCC RD, SDW $247,000Fabulous 2005 manufactured home on 5 acres. Large 2 car garage/shop & greenhouse. Great place to enjoy peace & quiet & watch wildlife. Call Tasha Zahlis at 391-5075. #138104

3319 E. SECTION ST., MV $284,990Charming front porch & a great floor plan that includes a master suite on the main floor plus a big bonus room upstairs & 3 more ample bedrooms. Nice sunny location! Call Robin Luif 420-2026. #271177

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

16663 BEAVER MARSH RD., MV $399,950Updated home offering views of Mt. Baker & surrounding farm land. 2.7 fenced acres, barn, 4 bay garage & shop. Hot tub & in-ground, glass enclosed swimming pool. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #166950

14836 AVON ALLEN RD., MV $420,000 Beautiful Turn-of-the-Century home with barn & granary, sur-rounded by the bountiful Skagit farmlands. Over 2900 sq.ft., 4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths on 1.2 acres. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #316903

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

17999 W. BIG LAKE BLVD., MV $449,000Adorable updated 2 bedroom home LIKE NEW, beautiful hickory cabinets, fireplace, tankless hot water, 1.75 baths. Front deck to enjoy gorgeous lake & mountain views. 100’ of no bank waterfront. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791 or Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #317967

24116 N. WESTVIEW RD, BIG LAKE $749,385Beautiful custom waterfront home, approx. 80’ frontage, 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

Documents

Real Estate Weekly | March 16, 2012