Washington's Wet News by Karen

Shopping for a Home in Snohomish County

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 10:44:15 -0500

If you are thinking of buying a home in Snohomish County Washington, you couldn't have picked a better time.

The Snohomish County Camano Association of Realtors is sponsoring a "County-Wide" Open House weekend, July 26 and 27. Ove 30 brokers will be holding their listings open. We expect over 400 homes to be open for viewing this weekend.

You ask why, the local Realtors want to do something positive for what has been a dismal selling season. Growing inventory is providing a lot of choices. Competition among sellers has created a buyer's market and better home deals.

More loans from the Federal Hosing Administration have filled a void of mortgage money that had been provided by the subprime loan market. FHA loans are stable, good loans.

Realtors will be providing "First Time Homebuyer" Booklets, information regarding financing "Learn about FHA Mortgages", "It Pays to Work with a Realtor" and "It's a Great Time to Buy". Brochures have been provided from the National Association of Realtors and the Washington Realtor Association.

So, I invite all you prospective buyers to come out, educate yourself and see how you can fulfill the American Dream of Home Ownership.

If you wish to plan your tour or find listings on your own visit my website to search for your own listings, find information regarding financing choices, educate yourself on the process and learn about our market.

Be sure you look for the trademark "R" and are working with a Realtor, as "No one knows Washington Real Estate like a Washington Realtor".

Call your Snohomish County Expert, Karen Schweinfurth, ABR, CRS, SRES, e-PRO Internet Certified, ACRE with RE/MAX Northwest Realtors - 425-308-3669.

The Buying Process in Washington State

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 16:21:02 -0500

Many of you think that when we find your dream property, write an offer and get it accepted, our job is done. Far from that point.....our job is just beginning.

In addition to helping you find your dream home through the listings we have sent you, making appointments to show you these listings, we are always working FOR you.

When we first met we gave you a copy of the "Laws of Real Estate Agency" that describes your legal rights in dealing with a real estate broker or salesperson in Washington State. It describes the duties of a licensee, a seller's agent, a buyer's agent, a dual agent, compensation, vicarious liability, imputed knowledge and notice and interpretation. You also received my buyer book that contains information on your purchase process and an introduction to my team of professionals; my transaction coordinator, my lender, my title company representative, my escrow officer, and my inspectors.

As a buyer's agent we are to: Be loyal to the buyer by taking no action that is adverse or detrimental or the buyer's interest in a transaction; to timely disclose to the buyer any conflicts of interest, to advise you to seek expert advice on matters relating to the transaction that are beyond our expertise, not to disclose confidential information from or about the buyer, except under subpoena or court order, even after termination of the agency relationship and make a good faith and continuous effort to find a property for you, the buyer, except that a buyer's agent is not obligated to: seek additional properties to purchase while the buyer is a party to an existing contract to purchase, or show properties as to which there is no written agreement to pay compensation to the buyer's agent.

We then begin the process of negotiating the contract in your best interest. Once we reach mutual acceptance, we send the contract to our assistant who will set you up on an internet web-based program so that we can communicate through emails what is happening on your transaction. You have 24/7 access to this file. We contact the selling agent, lender, title company, escrow company and they all become a party to this transaction.

We set up your inspection by coordinating that with your inspector and the seller. We negotiate after the inspection is completed and make sure all parties are aware of what's happening.

We follow up regularly with the lender to make sure they are on track with ordering the appraisal, getting paperwork to the underwriter and getting final loan approval.

We provide you with utility information and advise you when to contact the companies to get local utilities in your name.

We then make sure that the lender gets their paperwork to the escrow officer in a timely manner so that they can schedule your signing appointment. Remember, we talked about this, this is where you sign closing papers, deposit your funds to close. The paperwork is then sent back to the lender for a 24 hour review. Once the lender releases the package for recording, we follow up with the escrow office to make sure they are going to the court house to record your documents. Once that happens and we receive recording numbers, the escrow officer releases the fund and you CLOSE. You then are awarded keys according to the terms of the purchase and sale agreement.

We meet with you and hand over keys. You have your beautiful home, finally. We then follow up with post closing instructions to make sure there are no details left to discuss.

Phew, you say, you didn't realize we did all that. Yes, we do, and with zest, as you see provide you with the American Dream - home ownership and if we can do that successfully, our job is well done.

Congratulations, on your purchase. You'll be receiving a welcome home gift from my team. We wish you many years of happiness. "Oh, by the way, if you know of a friend or family member that could use our services, we'd be happy to speak to them and offer them the same level of service we gave you." Good Luck in your new home!

For Buyer Agency in Washington State contact: Karen Villa Schweinfurth, ABR, CRS, SRES, ePRO, ACRE

Your Snohomish County Expert

http://www.karensvillas.com

karen@karensvillas.com 425-308-3669

The Heavens are Raining in Seattle

Wed, 28 May 2008 19:15:13 -0500

JP Morgan Chase is expanding it's home lending business in Washington State and will more than quadruple it's market share by the end of the year. Chase has seven branches and plans to open up four more offices this year.

As reported in the Puget Sound Business Journal "The financial's giant's plans are reflective of the state's rosy reputation among mortgage bankers, and also could indicate a resurgence of the mortgage industry as stable lenders step in to fill the gaps left by those that have gone out of business."

They also reported that Golf Savings Bank, a subsidiary of Spokane-based Sterling Financial Corp., is also expanding its home loan business and plans to add 20 new loan officers by the end of the year probably hiring former employees of Washington Mutual who just closed 23 offices in Washington State.

So buyers, get off the fence, we have a great economy here in Snohomish County, interest rates are low and there is plenty of inventory to choose from.

Contact me, Karen Villa Schweinfurth, ABR, CRS, SRES, e-PRO, REALTOR - "As no one knows Washington Real Estate like a Washington Realtor - 425-308-3669.

http://www.karensvillas.com

karen@karensvillas.com

Washington D. C. Hill Visit

Wed, 21 May 2008 19:08:48 -0500

I recently attended the National Association of Realtors Mid Year conference in Washington, D. C. We had an opportunity to meet with our local legislators and senators and lobby for real estate issue affecting our communities. It was a long week of meetings, classes, caucases and preparation for our Hill visit.

On our last evening there representatives from Washington State had the opportunity to attend the annual POTLATCH Dinner put on by The Washington State Society.

The Washington State Society is a non-profit, non-partisan, member organization comprised of individuals who are living and working in the Washington, DC metropolitan area but are still "rooted" in or have connections to Washington state.

The Washington State Society brings together all with a love of the other Washington--Members of Congress, Capitol Hill and Administration staff, journalists, students, military staff, diplomats, business leaders, and many more. Their premier event is the annual Potlatch dinner--for more than 40 years, members feast on fine Washington state products flown in by the wonderful sponsors.

We enjoyed Washington State local Oysters, smoked black cod and Cougar (Washington State University made) Gold Cheese.

Dinner was Snow Crab Clusters, beef tenderloin, sockeye salmon, steamed asparagus, warm apple tart and candies from Liberty Orchards in Eastern Washington.

Compliments of Redhook Ale Brewery, our local brew was available as well as Washington Wines.

You are probably wondering what POTLATCH means - "A social event or celebration. A word that comes from the Chinook dialect and means "to give". A Potlatch was an important social event among Northwest tribes that marked the status of an individual or celebrateda special occasion. These celebrations could take more than a year to prepare and sometimes lasted up to ten days. Food and entertainment were provided, and gifts were given to guests who attended.

It was a great way to end a great week, seeing all the "other Washington" people in Washington, D. C.

The Code of Ethics: A Commitment to the Public

Wed, 21 May 2008 18:38:57 -0500

The Code of Ethics of the National Association of Realtors is the promiss to the public that when dealing with a real estate agent that is a REALTOR, they can expect honext and ethical treatment in all transaction-related matters. Only REALTORS pledge to abide by the Association's Code of Ethics and only REALTORS are held accountable for their ethical behavior.

Some of the basic principles of the Code of Ethics include:

~ Protect and promot your client's interests, but be honest with all parties

~ Avoid exaggeration, misrepresentation and concealment of pertinent facts. Do not reveal facts that are confidential under the scope of your agency relationship.

~ Disclose present or contemplated interest in any property to all parties.

~ Avoid side deals without your client's informed consent.

~ Accewpt compensation from onl one party, except with full disclosure and informed consent.

~ Keep the funds of clients and customers in escrow

~ Assure, whenever possible, that transactional details are in writing

~ Provide equal service to all clients and customers

~ Be knowledgeable and pempetent in the fields of practice in which you ordinarily engage. Obtain assistance or disclose lack of experience if necessary.

~ Do not engage in the unauthorized practice of law.

As you can see as a consumer, We are dedicated to serving America's property owners and have a strong commitment to follow the Code of Ethics. The National Association of Realtors is the largest professional association at over 900,000 members strong.

So whether you are buying or selling, look for that trademarked "R" of which we are so proud of and look for a REALTOR, as not all licensees are REALTORS.

Washington State - The Sky is NOT Falling

Sat, 10 May 2008 15:28:01 -0500

With all of the attention on the failing national housing market, many people have lost sight of the fact that Washington State is a unique market place. We have not seen the crash that most other states have. The median priced single family home in Snohomish County has dropped only .92% since last year. Here is why:

1. Washington has an extremely strong economy: unemployment is under 5 percent and according to the Washington State Office of financial management, we are projected to add another two million residents in the next 12 years.

2. Wshington has few subprime loans in danger of foreclosure so, contrary to what is happening in some states, we have fewer "distress sales" and foreclosures.

3. The historic low mortgage rates are tuning the market around. If you are renting, you are not along. There are thousands of people just like you who want to buy a home and are just waiting to see what the market will do. As these people enter the market, supply will go down and the market will heat up.

This is a great time to buy a home in Washington State. Be sure to ask a Washington Realtor, as no one knows Washington Real Estate like a Washington Realtor.

Please contact me for housing information and a special booklet for first time homebuyers. Karen Villa Schweinfurth 425-308-3669; or visit http://www.karensvillas.com

karen@karensvillas.com

First Time Home Buyers in Washington State

Sat, 26 Apr 2008 12:15:52 -0500

Do you fit that category? You will want to visit this website, a dedicated page on the Washington Realtor's Web site that will give you great information on the home buying process and a step by step guide to accomplish this.

Here's an sample of what is available to you:

Congratulations! You are thinking of buying your first home. We know this is a big decision for you with a lot of unknowns.

Many first time home buyers will contemplate the decision for years before taking any action, even a first step. Our research indicates that once a first time home buyer does take that first step, they purchase their first home within three months.

This site helps you take that first step.

Once you purchase a home you will soon learn the tax advantages of home ownership and the opportunity to build equity (or wealth) over time. According to the Federal Reserve, the median household wealth accumulation for a homeowner was $184,000; in comparison, the median net worth of a renter was $4,000.
You've probably already been using the Internet to search for homes, financing options and home buying information. You will find many of those resource links included in this brochure. We also encourage you to contact a Realtor® at the very beginning of your quest and put that Realtor® to work for you. He or she will help you find what you are looking for in a home, in the area you want, and at a price you can afford. When you find a home that you want to make an offer on, your Realtor® will research the market and let you know if the price is fair. He or she can help you negotiate an offer and advocate on your behalf throughout the process.

A Realtor® can help take the mystery out of the purchase of your new home and show you the ropes. There are hundreds of little details in buying a home and some details that are not so little-like property lines, easements, earnest money and the time allowed for home inspections (to name a few). Don't worry, you will be involved throughout the process and if you have any questions along the way, do not hesitate to ask your Realtor®.

The 28 page booklet is downloadable in a pdf format for your use or contact me to send you one at karen@karensvillas.com or 425-308-3669.

Remember to look for the REALTOR® trademark designation when contacting an agent. Not all licensees are REALTORS® and "NO ONE KNOWS WASHINGTON REAL ESTATE LIKE A WASHINGTON REALTOR®.

Leadership Institute Northwest - Washington Realtors

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 08:40:01 -0500

I have the privilege of having been chosen as one of seven applicants accepted from a pool of 25 applicants for 2008 to attend the Leadership Institute Northwest for Washington Realtors. It is an intense 9 day session broken into three two and half day sessions over six months. The goal is to identify future leaders of the Washington Realtors Association. They bring in national speakers, do leadership training sessions and prepare you to be a future officer and leader. We join in with the Oregon Association of Realtors in this venture so there are seven participants from each state. I am honored to have been accepted and humbled by my fellow participants.

Here is some information from the leadership web site:

Our Mission

The leaders of the Oregon and Washington Association of REALTORS® recognize that leadership development is an essential element in the process of improving our Associations and our profession. For that reason, we administer the Leadership Institute Northwest. Through this program, we attempt to identify emerging REALTOR® leaders, encourage them with motivation activites and assist in sharpening their leadership skills. We do this in the hope they will exert a strong positive influence on the future of the Association and profession.

Selection Criteria

Participation in the Leadership Institute NW is limited to REALTORS® living in Washington and Oregon. Seven REALTORS® will be selected from each state to participate in the program. Since the number of appointments in the program is limited, applicants who are not selected are encouraged to reapply in subsequent years. Participants will be chosen by the Leadership,Institute NW selection committee of each state based upon the information completed on this application. The Committee will be seeking representation from a cross-section of the profession. These leaders and potential leaders will be active in either business, education, the arts, religion, government, community-based organizations, or real estate specialty areas. Attendance at retreats and quarterly sessions is mandatory. Those who fail to attend may be asked to withdraw, with no refund of tuition.

Commitment

To graduate from Leadership Institute NW, a participant is expected to attend all sessions: Retreat format is to arrive the evening of the first date for an informal gathering and group mixer followed by two intensive days of workshops and discovery.

April Fools Cake

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:58:03 -0500

Have fun on April Fools day or anyvother day for that matter.

Prepare your favorite meatloaf receipe and place in greased round cake pans. Cook as usual. While that is completing, prepare a batch of mashed potatoes adding a little extra milk till they are creamy and spreadable by beating with an electric mixer.

When meat is done, place cake pan on platter, top with a layer of mashed potatoes, then top with other layer of meat and more potatoes. Sprinkle chees on top and serve.

This could be great fun for a children's birthday party. Have fun with this an enjoy the meal.

Your Snohomish County Camano Association of REALTORS® at Work for You

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:18:38 -0500

Being the champions of home ownership, SCCAR is working to help you, the consumer. Our 2008 Government Affairs Priorities inlcude: Affordable Housing Initiatives, Land Use, Sign Codes.

We are working with Snohomish County to insure that all regulatory changes that could have an economic impact on the cost of housing must have an "Affordable Housing Impact Note". We continue to provide input for the Snohomish County 10-Year Housing Action Plan coordinated by the Snohomish County Housing Consortium. We have prepared a "position paper" which will aid members in proactively advocating for the tools that this plan should contain in order to effectively provide a road map to increased attainable home ownership opportunities for middle-income wage earners.

Land Use - Regarding the Snohomish County Uniform Development Code Update - we are providing input before the County Council on updates to the Rural Cluster Subdivision ordinance; providing input on the creating of Urban Residential Design Standards and providing inpt on the updates to a countrywide Tree Retention/Replacement Ordinance. We also proactively continue to monitor Critical Area Regulation challenges in Lake Stevens and Snohomish County.

Sign Codes - We are working to develop a Snohomish County Sign Code to Create Allowance for Real Estate Signs based on currently submitted code revisions. We are continuing to try to work with the local builder/developer community to advocate for reasonable "off-premise" reas estate sign allowances.

Please visit our website at http://www.sccar.com for more information.

Immediate Past President, Karen Schweinfurth

http://www.karensvillas.com

5801 200th St SW #103, Lynnwood, WA 98036

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:20:31 -0500

5801 200th St. SW Unit 103, Lynnwood WA 98036

Location: Lynnwood, WA

Live the life of luxury. Rare one level penthouse suite in secured building in Cenral Lynnwood. Common garage with two spaces and storage unit. Secured entry way to elevator. Small, self managed complex. Fresh interior paint, new pergo flooring, all new appliances. This home is magnificient. Great room effect with formal dining room. Gas fireplace with fan. Double door master suite, with walk in, tub and shower. Guest bedroom has separate bath with closet large enough to be sewing room. Spare room converted to den/bedroom. Private deck with storage shed. This is a dream, great location, close to all amenities. Handicap accessible.

Photo Gallery

Information

Contact Information

Karen Villa Schweinfurth

425-308-3669

Pricing

Asking Price: $324,995

Flexibility: Negotiable

Property Location

5801 200th St. SW Unit 103
Lynnwood, WA 98036

Links

Features

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 1.75

Parking: Garage

Year Built: 1999

Located on Floor #: Penthouse

Square Footage: 1611

Agent Name: Karen Villa Schweinfurth

Broker: RE/MAX Northwest

MLS #: 28055229

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Sink Disposal

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Pergo Flooring

Den

Building Amenities

Patio

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 1398085

Street of Dreams - Dreams No More

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 09:59:16 -0600

It was a sad day for the community in rural Seattle on Monday. Very early in the morning arson struck a string of homes - these weren't just "any" homea. It was called "Seattle's Street of Dreams" The Street of Dreams is an annual showcase of luxury homes.

The builders used "Built Green" standards such as water-pervious sidewalks, super-insulated walls and windows and products made with recycled materials, such as carpet pads. Advertising for last summer's Street of Dreams show focused on the environmentally friendly aspects of the homes, which were smaller than some of the huge houses featured in years past.

The homes that burned were between 4,200 and 4,750 square feet in size, with prices up to nearly $2 million.

Architects and builders connected with these homes are still shocked eco-terrorists would target these showcase homes.

"We used this opportunity with the Street of Dreams to try to demonstrate to other people how you can build a home with less environmental impact," said Grey Lundberg, CMI Homes president.

As past president of the Snohomish County Camano Association of Realtors, we would like to offer our condolances to the builders of the street of Dreams in Woodinville Washington. We commend them on their efforts to create homes that are both eco-friendly and an example of architectural excellence. We hope that those who have inflicted such destruction and put those residents living near the Street of Dreams and our public safety workers in danger will be brought to justice.

Remodel vs. Remodel

Sat, 01 Mar 2008 06:45:40 -0600

Brazillian Cherry Woods - Pergo; Viking 8 burner range - Jennaire range; Travertine tiles - domestic tile, slab granite counter tops - granite squares or corian counter tops. What does this all mean?

The National Association of Realtors released statistics regarding remodels and your rate of return. In 2006 the rate of return on an average remodel was 77.4% - in 2007 the return was 68.4%. That's a $16,000 loss on a $50,000 kitchen remodel.

Watch the video here that talks about "modest remodels" in Snohomish County. It's Ok to remodel, just keep it modest to try to realize a higher rate of return on your investment. All real estate is local. Work with your local REALTOR® to assist you in your remodel plans so when you are ready to sell, you've made the right choices and not have remodeled "above your market area".

"No one knows Washington Real Estate, like a Washington REALTOR®. For all your real estate needs, please contact karen@karensvillas.com; www.karensvillas.com

It's 5 AM - What are you doing?

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 07:47:31 -0600

Hi, it's 5 AM Pacific time - that means you "East Coasters" have been up for hours. Well after a very busy day yesterday, attending a Washington Realtor meeting for most of the day, I was on my Blackberry negotiating a counter offer for a transaction I wrote the other day that came from an Active Rain participant, Sarah Nopp from Olympia, Washington. My client and I emailed each other back and forth about five times (don't you love technology).

So, it was such a full day and a very successful one that I created a blog about it. So what's so unusual you ask, well I did it at 4 AM. I was so excited that I couldn't sleep, woke up at 4 and started blogging. Yes, and one thing led to another and then I started commenting on other blog posts, joined a new group and now I'm really exhausted.

So, I'm going to "beddie by" now and I'll see you in "my morning" - 9 AM PST! Night all!

Good News for Vacation and Second Home Owners

Mon, 25 Feb 2008 17:54:56 -0600

There is a new IRS code for establishing vacation or second homes for investors.

This revenue procedure, which will be effective for exchanges occurring on or after March 10, 2008, establishes a safe harbor regarding when a vacation home can be considered investment property and traded in a §1031 exchange. The ruling states that a vacation home qualifies for a §1031 exchange if the investor owns the home for at least 24 months, rents it for at least 14 days for each 12-month period, and uses it no more than the greater of 14 days per year or 10 percent of the number of days during the year that the home is rented. These requirements apply to both the relinquished and replacement properties.

For purposes of this revenue procedure, a vacation home, also called a "dwelling unit" in the Revenue Procedure, is real property improved with a house, apartment, condominium, or similar improvement that provides basic living accommodations including sleeping space, bathroom and cooking facilities.

If you are interested in more information in a tax deferred 1031 exchange, contact karen@karensvillas.com.

Or visit my website at http://www.karensvillas.com for all your real estate needs.

Snohomish County Receipe Blog

Mon, 18 Feb 2008 14:33:22 -0600

Hi all, well since I love to cook I am going to be sharing some of my favorite receipes here. I'm from Polish/Italian descent and have many family secrets to share. I hope you visit often. I'll even share some of my heritage with you.

Lent is a religious season where we prepare for Easter Sunday. I was raised in a Catholic home and during lent you did not eat meat on Friday during the lenten period (6 weeks). Well, moms became creative with their cooking skills and a lot of meatless meals arrived. Here's my favorite:

Pierogi - 2-1/4 c. flour, 1 t. salt, 1 t. baking powder, 1/2 c. sour cream, 1 egg, 1/4 c. melted butter. Place all in food processor and pulse just till blended. Place on floured board and roll thin. Using a round cookie cutter, cut dough into circles.

Filling - One container of cottage cheese - drained very well, 1 egg, chopped fresh chives, salt and pepper.

Place filling in center of dough, fold over other half of dough and using a wet fork, make tine marks on the edge of the pastry to seal. Immediately place in boiling water until they rise. Drain on paper towels. You may freeze them at this stage.

Then for finishing - melt one stick of butter (yes real butter) and fry pierogi until golden. Serve with applesauce.

Enjoy and don't forget to visit http://www.activerain.com/karenvilla for more Snohomish County information and your favorite receipe.

Moving Tip

Mon, 18 Feb 2008 13:35:58 -0600

Did you know you can change your address on line if you are moving. Also, the U. S. Post Office gives you the opportunity to change your catalogue's mailing address and allows you to subscribe for magazines at a reduced rate.

This beats standing in line at the post office like many of you have done in the past. You can, for $1.00, register your new address on line or print the change of address form and hand carry it to your local post office.

Also, remember to contact your utilities companies at least two weeks prior to your move to cancel your accounts and set up new ones.

Call your insurance agent to ensure your move is covered.

Make sure you have packing supplies handy. Pack one room at a time, label each box and indicate which room it should go to.

Get estimates from at least three moving companies.

For all your real estate needs in Snohomish County contact: Karen Schweinfurth, karen@karensvillas.com or visit

http://www.karensvillas.com

A University for Everett - Questionable

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 09:27:06 -0600

Those fighting to bring a University of Washington campus to Everett suffered a great setback yesterday. The Senate Ways and Means Committee failed to act by a Tuesday deadline on competing bills to bring the University to Lake Stevens, Marysville or Everett, killing them in the Senate this session.

"We are not going to jump into any kind of decision prematurely," said the powerful chairwoman, Sen. Margarita Prentice, D-Renton. "This is a decision we take very seriously and we don't want to blow it."

While she said she can wait until 2009 to decide on a site and classes, the launch of a college is still possible this session.

"It just makes it tougher," said Rep. Mike Sells, D-Everett. "Nothing is impossible here."

Sells is focused on pushing through a bill to establish the college in Everett.

It appears there has been much discussion and many thousands of dollars spent on what location is best to house this university. The Legislature allotted $4 million last year to search out possible sites and begin designing an academic program for a new branch campus. This year, Gov. Chris Gregoire proposed spending $1.1 million on classes this year if a location is chosen.

Hopes were a location would have been decided this session and classes could start by September 2008 - that may be just a dream in the eyes of the beholder. Each municipality is fighting to have the campus built in their city.

Stay tuned for futher details. I'm one that hopes the Everett location wins. It just makes good sense. It would be located at our transportation hub, walking distance to the downtown core, easy freeway access, and is centrally located based on all the other locations. It would surely boost the downtown core renovation.

In my opinion, sometimes politics just gets in the way.

Do You Know Where Your Toilet Paper Comes From

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 21:21:40 -0600

Well, Everett, WA does have a claim to fame; Boeing, Fluke Mfg., the Everett Naval Base and, ta da, the Kimberly-Clark Pulp Mill.

Can you believe they produce over a million rolls of toilet tissue and paper products each day with about 850 employees.

The plant sits on the Puget Sound waterfront neighboring the Naval Base. They were recently fined $235,000 for a smokey six month fire in waste wood chips that was meant for fuel. This is the largest fine ever levied on a pulp mill in Washington.

Shame, shame, Kimberly-Clark, I'm sure you'll be hearing from the Pollution Control of Washington State. Now you know the whole story of toilet tissue. Enough said.

Jones Soda

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 21:03:02 -0600

Seattle based Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air just announced a partnership with a local soft drink company, Jones Soda.

Visit their web site, they have such a unique product, they solicit their labels from their customers. In 1995 they created WAZU Water (named for a local university), Washington State University, (WAZZU) NOT to be confused with the University of Washington (UDUB). We do have strange nicknames, don't we.

Jones' soda has always been about interacting with the consumer and placing their product in botique and surf shops at the beginning, then branching out to convenience stores. Now they are branching out to stores such as Target, Safeway, Meijers, etc. In addition to their natural cane sodas like cola, root beer, blue bubble gum, fufu berry and lemon drop; at holiday time they have unique flavors such as mashed potatoes & gravy and turkey! And yes, do taste authentic

Jones' has a "corner on the market" in Seattle. But what it all boils down to is customer service.

A Changing Market - Coffee vs. Housing

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 18:01:30 -0600

So you think the housing industry has slowed down a bit, Howard Schults, CEO of Starbucks, announced that sales are slipping and he's going to close ALL 7,100 nationwide stores on February 26 for a three hour period to re-train the baristas on making perfect shots!

He's eliminating hot sandwiches and further expansion. Also T-Mobile is out and AT&T is in for a mix of paid and free wireless internet service.

So Seattleites, start drinking that java up - we don't want our beloved Starbucks to go under now do we? How could we operate day to day without our daily shot of espresso - and where oh where would we meet clients if Starbucks closed?

This is a fine mess you got us in, Mr. Schultz. You better turn this operation around for all our sakes.

January 2008 Market Stats

Sat, 09 Feb 2008 18:14:33 -0600

Prices for homes that sold last month in western Washington edged up slightly from a year ago, according to new figures from Northwest Multiple Listing Service. In its recap of January activity, the MLS reported inventory, while still plentiful, reached its lowest level since April 2007 (with the exception of the holiday month of December).

Pending sales still lagged year-ago volumes and the number of listings is up about 35 percent from January 2007, but MLS directors point to several indicators of rising activity, including:

A significant increase in open house traffic
Higher volumes of inquiries from first-time buyers
Financing that is both "obtainable and inexpensive"
More multiple offer situations

One broker even described the current market as the "best buying opportunity in four or five years."

"I have heard several reports of a dramatic increase in buyer activity," said Pat Grimm, owner/broker of Windermere Real Estate/Capitol Hill, Inc. "Buyers are anticipating a window of opportunity where prices are low, inventory is plentiful and financing is both obtainable and inexpensive," the MLS director noted, adding, "In Seattle, well priced and well positioned properties are getting multiple offers."

Across the Northwest MLS service area, which encompasses 19 counties, the price on last month's closed sales of single family homes and condominiums rose 1.05 percent, from $312,975 to $316,250. In King County, which accounted for about four of every 10 closed sales, prices increased nearly 4 percent.

Prices for single family homes (excluding condos) rose 1.3 percent from a year ago, climbing from $329,950 to $334,288. In the four-county Puget Sound region, only King County notched a gain, with prices rising from the year-ago figure of $429,495 to $435,000, an increase of about 1.3 percent.

Condo prices showed signs of softening after registering double-digit gains during most months of 2007. For the MLS overall, the median price for last month's closed sales was $249,950, down less than a percentage point (0.71 percent) from the year-ago figure of $251,745. In King County, where nearly 60 percent of condo sales occurred, prices dipped 1.6 percent, from $274,900 a year ago to $270,500.

MLS members reported 4,499 pending sales of single family homes and condos during January, improving on December's total of 3,950 pending sales. That volume is off about 31 percent from twelve months ago when brokers notched 6,522 pending sales.

On the listing side, members added 13,186 new properties to the inventory, bringing the month-end total to 41,498. That's about 35 percent more than the selection of a year ago when there were 30,700 active listings of single family homes and condos. It also marks the lowest level since April 2007, with the exception of December, when inventory typically shrinks. (At the end of 2007, the MLS reported 38,440 active listings.)

The number of single family homes rose about 31 percent from this time last year, while condo inventory surged about 61 percent. Of the condo listings, about one-third are newly built.

"We are starting to see more and more buyers who have been on the fence now making their move because of low interest rates, a good selection of homes, and confidence in the local economy," remarked J. Lennox Scott, chairman and CEO of John L. Scott Real Estate. "These buyers understand the local market and the fact that homeownership is not just a moment in time, but rather a long term investment in their future," he emphasized.

Recent interest rates cuts by the Federal Reserve Bank and the presidential campaign may also be factors, suggests Dick Beeson, broker/owner of Windermere/Commencement Associates in Tacoma. Cutting the discount rate has helped maintain low interest rates and so has the forthcoming election, with the candidates looking to grow the economy, some by tax cuts for small business, others by rebates, he observed. Beeson added he does not expect a stimulus package to have much direct effect on the local market, other than giving a sense of positive movement.

Agents are receiving more inquiries about buying homes than in the last several months, open house traffic has increased, the mood is elevated among buyers, with both entry level and mid-range homes getting a fresh look, according to Beeson. "Homes that are "spot on" in condition and pricing are receiving offers and going to closing," he reported.

MLS director Ken Bacon, associate broker at Windermere Real Estate/S.C.A. in Redmond, believes the Fed's rate reduction has and will accelerate buyer interest. He attributes the recent leveling off of the Seattle area market to an exodus of investor buyers and tighter mortgage qualifying standards that eliminated many first time buyers.

"The ongoing appreciation in King County is fueled by our good job market," Bacon commented. "This creates stability in the marketplace, changing the motive of buying to "the need for housing" and the pride of home ownership," he stated. Attractive mortgage rates and rising rental costs could also fuel sales, he noted, while emphasizing the job element is critical.

Bacon expects a pick-up in activity, starting mid first quarter, with local appreciation in the range of 3 to 8 percent through 2008, depending on location. He believes location will have a growing impact on appreciation as buyers face longer and more expensive commutes. Condos will also be an attractive option, he added.

Northwest Multiple Listing Service, owned by its member brokers, is the largest full-service MLS in the Northwest. Its membership includes approximately 31,000 brokers and agents. The organization, based in Kirkland, currently serves 19 counties, mostly in western Washington, plus Grant, Kittitas and Okanogan counties in the central part of the state.

Statistical Summary by Counties: Market Activity Summary - January 2008

January 2008 Single Family Homes + Condos	LISTINGS		PENDING SALES	CLOSED SALES
January 2008 Single Family Homes + Condos	New Listings	Total Active	# Pending Sales	# Closings	Avgerage Price	Median Price
King	4937	12,370	1681	1403	$479,993	$395,000
Snohomish	2239	5979	728	579	$365,987	$344,500
Pierce	2158	7524	659	563	$290,236	$260,000
Kitsap	709	2342	223	167	$333,998	$279,000
Mason	175	727	46	39	$205,009	$190,000
Skagit	257	1165	114	76	$313,934	$257,000
Grays Harbor	172	839	51	36	$210,473	$186,750
Lewis	161	664	40	42	$197,414	$195,500
Cowlitz	169	729	56	29	$205,996	$181,000
Grant	145	567	55	47	$203,268	$165,000
Thurston	616	1880	271	174	$288,815	$262,500
San Juan	29	294	12	13	$770,269	$675,000
Island	251	973	73	73	$412,213	$299,950
Kittitas	84	522	28	27	$257,579	$205,900
Jefferson	50	424	30	19	$491,547	$396,500
Okanogan	39	382	14	19	$195,553	$170,000
Whatcom	448	1784	237	165	$306,308	$256,000
Clark	191	779	69	58	$292,291	$276,250
Pacific	66	338	15	17	$217,026	$188,300
Others	290	1216	97	76	$199,899	$169,118
MLS TOTAL	13,186	41,498	4,499	3,622	$376,729	$316,250

4-County Puget Sound Region Pending Sales (SFH + Condo combined)
(totals include King, Snohomish, Pierce & Kitsap counties)

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
2000	3706	4778	5903	5116	5490	5079	4928	5432	4569	4675	4126	3166
2001	4334	5056	5722	5399	5631	5568	5434	5544	4040	4387	4155	3430
2002	4293	4735	5569	5436	6131	5212	5525	6215	5394	5777	4966	4153
2003	4746	5290	6889	6837	7148	7202	7673	7135	6698	6552	4904	4454
2004	4521	6284	8073	7910	7888	8186	7583	7464	6984	6761	6228	5195
2005	5426	6833	8801	8420	8610	8896	8207	8784	7561	7157	6188	4837
2006	5275	6032	8174	7651	8411	8094	7121	7692	6216	6403	5292	4346
2007	4869	6239	7192	6974	7311	6876	6371	5580	4153	4447	3896	2975
2008	3291

Snohomish County - Conquering Homelessness

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 12:05:32 -0600

It was my honor to be asked by the Snohomish County Executive, Aaron Reardon, to be a member of his Housing and Homlessness Committee, as past president of the Snohomish County Camano Association of Realtors.

Snohomish County began a timely initiative Friday geared toward ending homelessness and increasing affordable housing by convening the first meeting of the Housing & Homelessness Policy Oversight Committee.

The committee coincides with other efforts the county will make this year to tackle two of the most pressing issues facing Snohomish County.

Executive Aaron Reardon convened Friday's committee meeting, gathering around him nearly 40 members of the community. Represented are leaders from local and state government, the housing and real-estate industry, educators, nonprofit executives, business leaders and members of the faith community.

"The work you do today will be implemented into county policies and ordinances," Reardon told the group. "This won't be another committee without an outcome. We will get the job done."

The committee will be asked to make suggestions on how best to establish benchmarks for forthcoming homeless and housing initiatives as well as guide long-term strategies.

There are several obstacles to adding affordable housing units in Snohomish County and to decreasing the number of homeless living here. One is the widening gap between housing prices and income, committee members said Friday.

"I have watched people struggle through such crises," said County Councilman Mike Cooper, a member of the committee. "Every day, there are families one paycheck away from being homeless."

The committee is expected to meet at least three more times before the Housing Consortium of Everett and Snohomish County - a nonprofit membership organization searching for solutions to the county's housing challenges - complete its forthcoming Affordable Housing Action Plan.

Snohomish County - Conquering Homelessness

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 12:04:26 -0600

Snohomish County Job Growth

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 11:45:21 -0600

State Labor economish Donna Thompson needed only a few words Tuesday to describe Snohomish County's economy in 2007. "We're smokin," she said of an unemployment report that showed employers in the county created 22,500 jobs last year.

Surprisingly, the amount was nearly equal to that of King County, the state's major job center, which added 23,400 jobs in 2007.

Thompson said the county's annual growth rate was 9.2 percent, more than four times the state average of 2 percent. The state created 77,700 jobs during the past 12 months. Snohomish County's contribution was nearly 29 percentof that total.

And our major contributor, Boeing. It's all due to the "787". Boeing and other aerospace firms in the county added 5,100 workers during 2007.

"We are attracting population and our labor force is growing. We are very fortunate to be in an area with a lot of high-paying manufacturing jobs" Thompson quoted.

Snohomish County's population count for April 20076 was 686,300. We are expected to reach around the 1,000,000 mark by 2020.

And you ask "why are people relocating here"? Here's your answer:

Snohomish County is located on Puget Sound, between Skagit County to the north and King County (and Seattle) to the south. Covering 2,090 square miles, it is the 13th largest county in total land area in Washington.

Snohomish County's varied topography ranges from saltwater beaches, rolling hills and rich river bottom farmlands in the west to dense forest and alpine wilderness in the mountainous east. Glacier Peak, at 10,541 feet, is the highest point in Snohomish County and one of the highest in Washington State. Sixty-eight percent of the county land area is forest land, 18% is rural, 9% is urban/city and 5% is agricultural.

Snohomish County enjoys a moderate year-round climate, with average temperatures ranging from about 75°F in July to about 33°F in January. The Olympic Mountains to the west, across Puget Sound, shelter the area from excessive precipitation coming off the Pacific Ocean.

However, that's our little secret - we aren't going to tell anyone about our little private corner of the world - now are we? That "proverb" came from years ago when Washington was just "a spec on the map" and the native Washingtonians didn't want anyone else moving into the State. The ploy was to tell all the people interested in moving here - "oh, it rains all the time here, it's miserable, you don't want to move here".

Well I relocated here in 1983 and that was the song. Then Californians started moving North because of our moderate year round climate, access to water and mountains, low population numbers and very affordable housing...........the rest is history.

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