Property taxes are due this week! - 10/30/07 10:44 AM
It's semiannual property tax time again. If you pay your own taxes, you have until Wednesday at midnight to get your payment post-marked which will avoid delinquency charges.
If you've misplaced your tax statement, you can call your county treasury office to learn what you owe. It's important to pay on time because extensions are not given.
In King County, call 206-296-3850. For an automated line, call 206-296-0923.
In Pierce County, call 253-798-6111. For an automated line, call 253-798-3333.
In Snohomish County, call 425-388-3366.
In Kitsap County, call 360-337-7135.
Additionally, property-tax statements and information may be available online. The above phone numbers … (0 comments)

Just Listed! 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Condo $199,900 - 10/30/07 10:01 AM
Posted by David Edwards under For Buyers, Regional - West, Listings, New Listings, Renton
Come home to your meticulously maintained, top floor condo & relax as you take in the unobstructed greenbelt view. The complex is a beautifully landscaped gated community that is professionally managed. Dues are exceptionally low & include landscaping, clubhouse, gated entry, pool, hot tub, & tanning room. You'll be proud of the updated cabinetry, double paned windows, deck storage & designer paint. All appliances stay. Easy access to freeways & The Landing. 1 Year AHS Home Warranty is included! Call 425-890-8045 to arrange for a showing today! 
Price: $199,900 
Bedrooms: … (0 comments)

Updated Renton, Newcastle & South Bellevue Real Estate Market Statistics (As of October 29th, 2007) - 10/29/07 10:11 AM
MLS Area 500 (Newcastle, Bellevue South of I-90 & Issaquah South of I-90)Single Family HomesAverage Days on Market: 83 Days (Up from 81 Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 507 (Down from 511 Last Week)Average List Price: $899,101 (Down from $900,932 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $756,663 (Down from $766,005 Last Week)
CondominiumsAverage Days on Market: 57 Days (Up from 55 Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 134 Active Listings (Down from 135 from Last Week)Average List Price: $339,034 (Down from $339,981 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $325,070 (Down from $327,190 Last Week)
MLS Area 350 (Renton Highlands) Single Family HomesAverage Days on Market: 82 Days (Up … (0 comments)

Pacific Northwest Events Calendar Updated 10/28/2007! - 10/28/07 07:09 PM
Posted by David Edwards under For Buyers, For Sellers, For Realty Professionals, Regional - West, Local Events Calendar, Regional News, Washington
Summer has come to an end; and with the changing of the season, we close another chapter of outdoor events that have come to define summers in the Pacific Northwest.
Nonetheless, when one door closes, another opens and with that, we are given an opportunity to enjoy the vast array of Autumn activities that are also unique to our region.
I have updated my Local Community Events Calendar found online at: http://www.davidjedwards.com/events-calendar.asp  
There are literally hundreds of events on the calendar. Some of … (0 comments)

I-405 and Eastside Transporation Projects Update - 10/25/07 10:37 AM

I-405 and Eastside Projects Update
New signal green lights transit, pedestrian improvements on SR 522 in Lake Forest Park
On Wednesday, Oct. 17 crews activated a new signal system at NE 153rd Street on SR 522 in Lake Forest Park. A new transit pullout provides a safer location for buses to pick up riders with fewer traffic and transit delays. The new signal allows pedestrians safer access to the transit stops on both sides of the roadway.
Crews began construction in fall 2006 and pushed hard to complete this project a month ahead of schedule. This is one of several projects collectively known as … (0 comments)

Olympus in Newcastle, WA named Neighborhood of the Week in the Seattle Times Real Estate Section - 10/23/07 09:53 AM
"The upscale Olympus neighborhood in Newcastle lives up to the grandeur its name implies, with sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains, Lake Washington and Mount Rainier, along with well-kept yards and homes," writes Jolene Gensheimer in a special to The Seattle Times Real Estate section on Sunday, October 14th, 2007.
The Olympus community was established in 1987, when construction of the development began. The development was built during the mid 90's and boasts 267 homes. Olympus is served by two school districts: Issaquah and Renton. The neighborhood benefits from an active homeowner's association that meets on a monthly basis. The association hosts … (0 comments)

Updated Renton, Newcastle & South Bellevue Real Estate Market Statistics (As of October 22nd, 2007) - 10/22/07 09:51 AM
Posted by David Edwards under For Buyers, For Sellers, For Realty Professionals, Regional - West, Statistics, Marketing Reports, Washington
MLS Area 500 (Newcastle, Bellevue South of I-90 & Issaquah South of I-90)Single Family HomesAverage Days on Market: 81 Days (Up from 79 Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 511 (Up from 508 Last Week)Average List Price: $900,932 (Down from $902,500 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $766,005 (Down from $769,020 Last Week)
CondominiumsAverage Days on Market: 55 Days (Up from 53 Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 135 Active Listings (Down from 138 from Last Week)Average List Price: $339,981 (Down from $340,906 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $327,190 … (0 comments)

Bryn Mawr Elementary was named a state "School of Distinction" - 10/21/07 01:28 PM
Posted by David Edwards under For Buyers, For Sellers, For Realty Professionals, Regional - West, News & Media, Regional News, Washington
Bryn Mawr Elementary was named a state "School of Distinction" October 10th, 2007. Bryn Mawr Elementary is among the top 5 percent of elementary, middle and high schools in the state according to Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Terry Bergeson. This award was given to 86 schools this year. Each of these schools met the state's learning targets on last spring's Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) in reading and math. The winning schools also showed substantial improvement on the WASL's … (0 comments)

Pacific Northwest Events Calendar Updated 10/19/2007! - 10/19/07 10:47 AM
Posted by David Edwards under For Buyers, For Sellers, Regional - West, General Information, Local Events Calendar
Summer has come to an end; and with the changing of the season, we close another chapter of outdoor events that have come to define summers in the Pacific Northwest.
Nonetheless, when one door closes, another opens and with that, we are given an opportunity to enjoy the vast array of Autumn activities that are also unique to our region. 
I have updated my Local Community Events Calendar found online at:http://www.davidjedwards.com/events-calendar.asp
There are literally hundreds of events on the calendar. Some of the most recent additions focus on … (0 comments)

Open House on October 21, 2007 at 4610 NE 5th Place, Renton WA 98059 - 10/18/07 10:57 AM
Posted by David Edwards under For Buyers, Regional - West, Open Houses, Listings, Renton
On October 21st, 2007 between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM, you are invited to an Open House at 4610 NE 5th Place in the Orchards Community of Cherry Tree Lane (Renton 98059).
If you are looking for a Single-family home in the East Highlands area, don't miss your opportunity to visit this magnificent property.
This home is listed for $419,950.
To preview the home in advance, check out my site at http://www.davidjedwards.com./
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or are unable to stop in on Sunday and wish to schedule a private showing.
David Edwards
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty … (0 comments)

Washington's Real Estate Market is Strong in Spite of Problems Elsewhere in the Nation - 10/16/07 10:40 AM
According to the Washington Association of REALTORS, the Washington real estate market is a stable and responsible marketplace for home buyers.
The foreclosure rates today are the same as they were 10 years ago. Fewer than one percent of mortgages end in default in Washington state.  As of Mid-June, sub-prime, adjustable-rate loans represented 20 percent of loans nationally, but just 6 percent of home loans in Washington.
According to the Washington State University Center for Real Estate Research (CRER), home appreciation in Washington continues to out-perform the rest of the nation with year-to-year price increases in every quarter since the spring of 1995. … (2 comments)

Updated Renton, Newcastle & South Bellevue Real Estate Market Statistics (As of October 15th, 2007) - 10/15/07 10:35 AM
MLS Area 500 (Newcastle, Bellevue South of I-90 & Issaquah South of I-90)Single Family HomesAverage Days on Market: 79 Days (Up from 78 Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 508 (Down from 524 Last Week)Average List Price: $902,500 (Down from $903,974 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $769,020 (Down from $769,216 Last Week)
CondominiumsAverage Days on Market: 53 Days (Up from 45 Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 138 Active Listings (Down from 142 from Last Week)Average List Price: $340,906 (Up from $340,891 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $325,598 (Down from $326,273 Last Week)
MLS Area 350 (Renton Highlands) Single Family HomesAverage Days on Market: 80 Days (Up … (0 comments)

Newcastle City Council Planning Commission Regular Meeting - October 17, 2007 - 10/12/07 12:41 PM
 PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
Council Chambers - City Hall
October 17, 2007
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA - 7:00 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. FLAG SALUTE
3. ROLL CALL
4. ELECTION OF CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR
5. SWEARING IN OF CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR
6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a. June 13, 2007
b. August 16, 2007
7. PUBLIC COMMENT
When recognized, proceed to podium, adjust microphone, state your name and address for the record. Please print your name on the sign-up sheet to ensure accuracy for the record. PLEASE LIMIT YOUR REMARKS THREE (3) MINUTES.
8. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
9. PUBLIC HEARINGS - … (0 comments)

Pacific Northwest Events Calendar Updated 10/12/2007! - 10/12/07 12:09 PM
Summer has come to an end; and with the changing of the season, we close another chapter of outdoor events that have come to define summers in the Pacific Northwest.
Nonetheless, when one door closes, another opens and with that, we are given an opportunity to enjoy the vast array of Autumn activities that are also unique to our region.
I have updated my Local Community Events Calendar found online at:http://www.davidjedwards.com/events-calendar.asp
There are literally hundreds of events on the calendar. Some of the most recent additions focus on the Renton neighborhood centers.
Ages 6 and up. Come and check out the fun at North … (0 comments)

Roads & Transit Plan for Renton - 10/11/07 10:10 AM
On August 20th, the Renton City Council passed a resolution in support of the Roads & Transit Plan. Voters will vote on this package this November.
The Roads & Transit Plan includes the following projects in Renton:
- I-405 Bellevue to Renton lane additions- SR 167 / I-405 interchange HOV to HOV direct lane connection- SR 167 HOT (toll) lanes- Southbound I-405 to eastbound SR 169 flyover ramp- SR 167 Green River Valley corridor congestion relief projects
David EdwardsREALTOR®Keller Williams Realty Southeast SoundPhone: 425-890-8045E-Mail: david@davidjedwards.comWebsite: http://www.davidjedwards.comBlogsite: http://www.davidjedwards.com/renton-info-blog.asp
David J Edwards is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing … (0 comments)

Renton Highlands Property Values will benefit from Coal Creek Parkway's Expansion - 10/09/07 10:42 AM
Coal Creek Parkway is the only north and south roadway alternative to I-405 between the cities of Bellevue and Renton, which makes it a vital regional corridor. You may have noticed the beginnings of some road construction along Coal Creek Parkway just north of Duvall at the Renton / Newcastle Border.
This Coal Creek Parkway project will widen Coal Creek Parkway between SE 84th Street and SE 95th Way from two to four travel lanes with left-turn pockets, a landscaped median, bike lanes, sidewalks, curbs and gutters, crosswalks, illumination, and drainage facilities. New traffic signals will be installed at SE 89th Street, … (0 comments)

Newcastle Parks Commission - Regular Meeting - October 10, 2007 7:00 PM - 10/08/07 03:34 PM
Posted by David Edwards under For Buyers, For Sellers, For Realty Professionals, Regional - West, Local Events Calendar, Regional News, Washington
City Hall - 13020 Newcastle Way
Agenda
1) Call to Order
2) Flag Salute
3) Roll Call
4) Approval of Minutes
 a. September 12, 2007
5) Public Comment
6) Parks Commissioner Comments
7) General Business
 a. Lake Boren Park Master Plan - Continued Discussion
 b. Volunteer Recognition - Discussion
 c. Windtree Park Groundbreaking Event - Discussion
8) Reports
 a. Committees
  1. Community Service
  2. Recreation - sunsetted
  3. Trails & History - sunsetted
  4. Parks
  5. WSDOT Park
  6. Skateboard Park
  7. Westside Park
 b. Staff
  1. Skatepark Update
  … (0 comments)

Updated Real Estate Market Statistics (As of October 8th, 2007) - 10/08/07 11:22 AM
MLS Area 500 (Newcastle, Bellevue South of I-90 & Issaquah South of I-90)Single Family HomesAverage Days on Market: 78 Days (Up from 77 Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 524 (No change from Last Week)Average List Price: $903,974 (Down from $904,912 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $769,216 (Down from $772,772 Last Week)
CondominiumsAverage Days on Market: 45 Days (Up from 43 Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 142 Active Listings (Down from 143 from Last Week)Average List Price: $340,891 (Up from $337,867 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $326,273 (Down from $326,849 Last Week) 
MLS Area 350 (Renton Highlands)Single Family HomesAverage Days on Market: 79 Days (No Change … (0 comments)

Open House! Tuesday October 9th from 12:00 to 3:00 PM in Renton's Summerfield Neighborhood - 10/05/07 01:00 PM
 
The entryway, with its wood floors and vaulted ceilings, will lead you to a spacious kitchen with a granite tiled, center island. The master bedroom is oversized and comes complete with a 5 piece bath and walk-in closet!!! You'll love the NEW roof, fully fenced and landscaped private yard, complete with a refinished deck for entertaining. This home is perfectly situated along a greenbelt with access to trails for hiking.
Price: $407,999Bedrooms: 3Bathrooms: 2.5Square Feet: 2000
MLS: 27148759
For More Information Feel Free to Visit:http://www.davidjedwards.com/featured-listings.asp?listing_id={9ECFB9D0-B978-41A7-9F11-36EBF3E9E94F}
Driving Directions: From I-405, drive SE on Renton Maple Valley Rd / WA-169 for 1.4 miles. Turn right onto 161st … (0 comments)

Pacific Northwest Events Calendar Updated 10/05/2007! - 10/05/07 10:35 AM
Summer has come to an end; and with the changing of the season, we close another chapter of outdoor events that have come to define summers in the Pacific Northwest.
Nonetheless, when one door closes, another opens and with that, we are given an opportunity to enjoy the vast array of Autumn activities that are also unique to our region. 
I have updated my Local Community Events Calendar found online at:http://www.davidjedwards.com/events-calendar.asp
There are literally hundreds of events on the calendar. Some of the most recent additions include:
Clam Lights - Friday November 30th - Free!
Start your holiday season off with an evening of … (0 comments)

Important Election Dates - 10/04/07 10:58 AM
It is that time of the year, and candidates are actively campaigning in their communities. In an effort to keep you informed of important deadlines between now and the end of the year, please take a couple of minutes and review the list of key dates and information related to the 2007 General Election cycle.   
Important dates:
Oct. 3rd through the 5th: The Secretary of State will send the General Election Voters' Pamphlet
Oct. 6th: This is the 30-day mail-in registration deadline for the Nov. 6 General Election. Registrations must be postmarked by Oct. 6 or can be returned in the drop … (0 comments)

Price Reductions! - 10/02/07 10:19 AM
 
Was $419,999 Now $407,999! (Open House today, Oct 2nd from 12:00 to 3:00 PM)15616 160th Ct SE Renton, WA 98058Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2.50 Square Feet: 2000 Lot Size: 8526 sfYear Built: 1987For More Information: http://www.davidjedwards.com/featured-listings.asp
Was $414,900 Now $409,900!4409 NE 20th St Renton, WA 98059Bedrooms: 5!Bathrooms: 2.5Square Feet: 2230Lot Size: 7210Year Built: 1976For More Information: http://www.davidjedwards.com/featured-listings.asp
… (0 comments)

Open House! Tuesday October 2nd from 12:00 to 3:00 PM in Renton's Summerfield Neighborhood - 10/01/07 09:40 PM
 
The entryway, with its wood floors and vaulted ceilings, will lead you to a spacious kitchen with a granite tiled, center island. The master bedroom is oversized and comes complete with a 5 piece bath and walk-in closet!!! You'll love the NEW roof, fully fenced and landscaped private yard, complete with a refinished deck for entertaining. This home is perfectly situated along a greenbelt with access to trails for hiking.
Price: $407,999Bedrooms: 3Bathrooms: 2.5Square Feet: 2000MLS: 27148759
For More Information Feel Free to Visit:http://www.davidjedwards.com/featured-listings.asp?listing_id={9ECFB9D0-B978-41A7-9F11-36EBF3E9E94F}
Driving Directions: From I-405, drive SE on Renton Maple Valley Rd / WA-169 for 1.4 miles. Turn right onto 161st … (0 comments)

Keller Williams listings to appear on AOL - 10/01/07 12:51 PM
A new partnership between AOL and Cyberhomes will drives more traffic to Keller Williams listings.
Fidelity National Real Estate Solutions' (FNRES) Cyberhomes has signed a deal with AOL Real Estate to power all of its home valuations.
This is good news for Keller Williams listings which are already automatically fed into the Cyberhomes database.
Through this partnership, FNRES will aggregate broker and Multiple Service Listings (MLS) for the 3 million monthly AOL Real Estate users, and provide access to instant home evaluations through FNRES' Cyberhomes expert tools at realestate.aol.com.
Cyberhomes is a home and community evaluation Website that gives Internet consumers direct access to … (0 comments)

Updated Real Estate Market Statistics (As of October 1st, 2007) - 10/01/07 10:31 AM
MLS Area 500 (Newcastle, Bellevue South of I-90 & Issaquah South of I-90)Single Family HomesAverage Days on Market: 77 Days (Up from 76 Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 524 (Down from 547 Active Listings Last Week)Average List Price: $904,912 (Up from $904,824 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $772,772 (Down from $779,345 Last Week)
CondominiumsAverage Days on Market: 43 Days (No change from Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 143 Active Listings (Up from 131 from Last Week)Average List Price: $337,867 (Down from $339,423 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $326,849 (Down from $330,812 Last Week)
MLS Area 350 (Renton Highlands) Single Family HomesAverage Days on Market: 79 … (0 comments)