A List Realty Group Inc.'s Blog

A peek behind the curtain

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 15:25:11 -0800

The Real estate industry is a mystery to those that are not either regularly buying and selling, or work as a professional in the industry.

Here we are going to give everyone a peek behind the curtain and a glimps of how it works.

Brokers represent the public and the company. Sales associates represent the broker and serve the public.

Sellers need to sell and either seek out a sales professional, or sales professionals seek them.

Buyers want to buy and seek a sales professional, or sales professionals seek them.

92% of all Real property buyers and sellers work with a Real estate professional.

Q: Why?
A: Because Real estate professionals already have a network and have the "In" on all available inventory "The MLS" and the license to carry a digital key.

The biggest value that Real estate professionals offer to the consumer is information. They are the ones with intimate knowledge of the local market and current trends. Smart and savvy consumers know that it is always best to use the experts when it comes to big ticket items.

What does this all mean? Well it means that agents can market and agents can hussle, but in the end the sale will usually come down to a "Broker" to "Broker" transaction.

Median home price Bothel and surrounding area

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 21:13:30 -0700

Bothell Washington is a city that keeps its home values and main infrastructure largely because of accessability, with I-405, Bothell Everett highway, I-5, and highway 522 all pouring into the city center. This makes it a great place to call home for just about anyone that works in any major city in Snohomish county, and North King as well. Bothell itself has the new University of Washington branch campus, and some tech companies, and bio-med, as well as Philips electronics and over in Canyon park is a massive industrial complex with many different businesses. The overall home prices in Bothell and surrounding areas will always remain higher than the average do to many of these factors.

Median home price Bothell/Clearview/Cathcart May 2010 - June 2010 $394,745 Three hundred ninety four thousand seven hundred fourty five dollars

Thank you for reading our information The A-List Realty Group is set out to provide the most up to date and relevant Real estate information to the Snohomish county public. Plesae contact us anytime if you have a question we can assist you with.

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Median home price Snohomish and surrounding area

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 21:11:43 -0700

Snohomish Washington is a quaint little city resting along side the river that shares its name. The city of Snohomish is known for its many antique shops and diverse small business community. The town itself is a bit of an anomoly with housing developments that have stood since the founding of Snohomish to almost million dollar estates on 5 acre parcells overlooking the valley. There has always been a desireability factor for living in Snohomish although the city itself has no real economic value, you can work at any multitude of small retail and grocery stores, but the only major industry in Snohomish is the mill, or farming. We believe that the draw to Snohomish is the small town feel, the friendly people and the accesibility. The median home price for the area is not that far off of neighboring city Everett Washington, but 20,000 higher than Lake stevens and surrounding areas.

Median home price Snohomish/Monroe/Sultan/Startup/Gold bar/Index/Galina May 2010 - June 2010 $295,000 Two hundred ninety five thousand dollars

The A-List Realty Group prides itself on keeping current in the Snohomish county Real estate market. If you need advice or have a question you can contact us anytime.

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Median home price Marysville and surrounding areas

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 21:10:04 -0700

Marysville Washington is the third largest city in Snohomish county. The major commerce of Marysville is the Tulalip resort casino, although this operation is owned and operated by the Tulalip tribe many citizens of Marysville and the surrounding area are employed there. There is also major corporations such as Home depot, Wall-Mart, and Costco. Marysville has no major industry, there are the Strawberry growers, a lumber mill, misc. retail, and other such employment, but during the boom market most of Marysville value was for Boeing workers that wanted an affordable home within a reasonable commute. While the market will recover the median price in Marysville and surrounding areas like Arlington, Stanwood, Lakewood, Silvana, and Darrington is over 40,000 less than Everett just 15 minutes south on Interstate 5.

Median home price May 2010 - June 2010 Marysville and surrounding area $265,000 Two hundred sixty five thousand dollars

The A-List Realty Group strives to be the best Real estate team in Snohomish county. We are constantly watching the market trends, and keeping you informed. If you ever have a Real estate question please contact us anytime.

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Median home price Lake stevens and surrounding areas

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 21:08:27 -0700

Lake stevens Washington is a bedroom community of Everett Washington and during the boom market of 2001 - 2007 saw a huge growth spurt, and all time high property values. Since the sub-prime meltdown the area has seen an large losses in overall value and due to the affordability further south has had a larger dip in median home price. The town of Lake stevens is a community built around a big beautiful lake that draws thousands of people each year to play. It remains a desireable place to live and will see a recovery in the near future.

The median home price for the Lake stevens/Granite falls/Machias & North Marysville area between May 2010 - June 2010 is $275,000

The A-List Realty group is your Snohomish county Real estate experst if you have any questions about your current market contact us anytime.

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Median home value in Lynnwood and surrounding areas

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 21:06:43 -0700

Lynnwood Washington is home to the Alderwood mall the shopping epicenter of Snohomish county. There are many cities that border Lynnwood and make up dense portion of Snohomish county's population. These cities are Edmonds, Mountlake terrace, community of Alderwood (Old Alderwood manor), and Woodway (Part of Edmonds really). The close proximity to Seattle makes the Lynnwood and surrounding areas an affordable, and desireable place to buy a home for the quick commuter this keeps the home prices a bit higher then most areas in Snohomish county.

from May 2010 - June 2010 the Median home value in Lynnwood and surrounding areas is $340,000 Three hundred fourty thousand dollars.

The A-List Realty Group is dedicated to analyzing the market, and interpreting the numbers to help our clients and potential clients understand the housing trends in Snohomish county. We are always available for questions, and maket information contact us anytime.

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101 Things to do in Snohomish county: #80 Strawberry festival

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 21:05:03 -0700

Every year in the little city of Marysville Washington there is a festival to celebrate the towns heritage as a large producer of delicious Strawberries. There are rides, games, a parade and all the things you expect to enjoy at a festival/carnival. The waether this year has not been ideal, but if there is a clearing head on over to Marysville middle school where the festival has been held for many years now. There is more information on the strawberrie festival on thier website http://www.maryfest.com/search.htm

Thank you for being a part of 101 in Snohomish!

Median home price Everett Washington and surrounding areas

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 21:03:44 -0700

Everett Washington is the largest city in Snohomish county. There is a strong economic infrastructure based largly on Boeing and its manufacturers. The housing market in the Everett area, and its neighboring city Mukilteo are fairly solid compared to most areas.

Currently as of May 2010 - June 2010

The median home value for the Everett, Mukilteo area is $305,000 Three hundred five thousand dollars

The A-List Realty Group with Keller Williams Realty is your Snohomish county Real estate professional, we watch the market and work everday to better understand the trends and help our clients succeed. If you have any questions, or need Real estate advice contact us anytime.

The A-List Realty Group
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17814 65th Dr NW, Stanwood, WA

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 21:01:51 -0700

I just finished uploading this Vacant land for sale, 17814 65th Dr NW, Stanwood, WA

Panoramic views of Lake Howard can be yours! This half acre lot is ready for your custom construction. With power and water on the road, an (expired) septic design in hand, and since manufactured homes are OK, you could be living here before you know it. Across the street from the gated, private beach and towering over the lake itself, this is one awesome find. Treed with small growth pines and alders, you can stay screened from the neighbors and still take in this fantastic view!

101 Things to do in Snohomish county: #81 Brooklyn Bros. Pizzeria

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 21:00:38 -0700

If you are out and about in Snohomish county (Everett more specificly) and you are getting hungry you need to stop in and get a slice of pizza at Brooklyn Bros. Pizzeria. This is some of the best pizza you will ever eat. They are located right accross the street on the north side of Comcast arena at the corner of Hewitt and Lombard.

They sell pizza by the slice (and they are huge) whole pies for delivery, and dine-in. Brooklyn Bros. is a casual environment where you can enjoy some awesome pizza!

Brooklyn Bros. pizzeria can be found at http://www.bbpmenu.com/.

191 XX 68th DR Ne, Arlington, WA

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 20:58:30 -0700

I just finished uploading this Commercial property for sale, 191 XX 68th DR Ne, Arlington, WA

Three tax parcels at one low price. Lots also listed for individual sale, save $612K by buying all three. Two 9.43ac parcels and one 16ac parcel, mostly cleared and largely level with dirt road and rail access. Zoned for General Industrial. Close to Arlington Municipal Airport, Highway 9, Highway 530, and I-5. APNs 31051400203300, 31051400303100, 31051400202900

40631 SR 2, Gold Bar, WA

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Mon, 31 May 2010 15:14:14 -0700

I just finished uploading this Single Family Home for sale, 40631 SR 2, Gold Bar, WA

Wonderful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, with One bed & 3/4 bath suite for mom, dad, etc. This property comes with a large green house and a fully wired 24'x24' shop on nearly a half acre! The land is commercially zoned and can be used for a wide variety of uses. Extra features inclued large jetted tub, shop, large variety of fruit trees, fenced yard, and paved driveway.

2204 163rd St SE, Mill creek, WA

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Mon, 31 May 2010 15:12:09 -0700

I just finished uploading this Single Family Home for sale, 2204 163rd St SE, Mill creek, WA

Welcome home to this gorgeous two story home in the heart of Mill creek. When you enter, the natural light fills the home with warmth, and the high cielings make for a very open feel. The home boasts corian counter tops, Real hardwood floors, and refaced cabinets. The roof is 1 year old, and everything else is in great shape. There are two living rooms, large dining room, and breakfast area off of the kitchen. Upstairs are 2 large bedrooms, and huge master with 5 piece bath. Home is a must see!

225 144th St SE, Everett, WA

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Mon, 31 May 2010 15:10:37 -0700

I just finished uploading this Single Family Home for sale, 225 144th St SE, Everett, WA

Sparkling and updated, this home as a ton of extras and improvements! From the huge back deck to the bonus room downstairs, hardwood floors and modern amenities, this home as kept current with changing trends and styles. No out-dated avocado counters or burnt sienna shag carpets here, just the simple elegance and tasteful touches of contemporary living. Minutes to Central Everett, Boeing, and I-5, and close to shopping, entertainment, and more... You can't afford to wait, come see it today!

20825 191st St SE, Monroe, WA

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Mon, 31 May 2010 15:09:16 -0700

I just finished uploading this Single Family Home for sale, 20825 191st St SE, Monroe, WA

Private Acreage on High Rock! This newer rambler features commanding views of the Monroe area and Snohomish Valley. Spectacular views can be had from the large deck and hot tub- A fantastic place for barbecues, summer parties, or just unwinding in the privacy of your own wooded paradise. The large lot provides seclusion from the surrounding neighbors while still being close to town, Highway 2, And 522- Minutes to Monroe, Snohomish, Woodinville, and neighboring cities!

5917 Highway Pl #21, Everett , WA

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Mon, 31 May 2010 15:07:35 -0700

I just finished uploading this Condominium for sale, 5917 Highway Pl #21, Everett , WA

Beautiful top floor unit, perfect for the first time buyer or the downsizing homeowner! Adjacent to the Everett Golf and Country Club, this home is close to everything- Shopping, recreation, entertainment, restaurants, I-5, Boeing... Everything! With elevator access, huge deck, formal dining, & in-unit laundry hook-ups, this is one you don't want to pass up. Secure entrance & recreation facilities round out this condo into the perfect place to call home. Finally- The one you've been looking for!

2009 Summary of sales by Price Range

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Mon, 31 May 2010 14:57:08 -0700

The Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS) has released it's 2009 summery report for real estate sales within it's jurisdiction. This is a BIG, FAT report packed full of statistics that most real estate agents aren't even remotely interested in, much less the public. I've narrowed down to one area that I think is most relevant to you, the home seller or buyer- What percentage of the total sales fell within what price ranges.

I can here you already... "Why is this important to me?" Well, as a seller, it helps you understand where the market is, and what prices have the best chance of selling. It illustrates what types of homes are "In the Market" and what types of homes are faced with longer, more difficult sales. For the buyer, it shows what level of competition you will be faced with for the homes in your price range- How aggressive you will need to be to ensure you don't miss out on "The" home you are looking for.

The chart shows that in 2009 the largest segment of sold Single Family Residences (SFR) fell within the $200,000 to $299,999 price range- These sales made up 33% of all sales. Single Family homes in this price in our area are mostly what we refer to as "First-Time Buyer" homes. These are typically good condition, "Move-in Ready" homes without a lot of fancy flair like real hardwood floors or granite countertops, etc. This spike is in part due to government programs and tax credits for those first-time buyers, as well as tightened lending requirements making this the maximum range most buyers can qualify for.

Why don't the ranges below that ($1-99,999 and $100-199K) combined even equal the same volume of closed sales as the $200-299K range? For the most part these are "Below Value" properties- Properties that are offered for less than our area's "Fair Market Value" and are typically fixers and tear-downs. Homes with condition issues don't get first-time buyer attention despite low prices because of the work required to get them into live-in condition. Again, these "Below Value" homes also suffer from tightened lending requirements- Those same condition issues prevent them from passing the lenders' appraisal and so they fail to get financing.

Above that price we start getting into "Move-up Homes", homes that are most often purchased by buyers who already own homes. With the sudden and deep contraction of real estate values, many owners lack the equity in their homes to sell for a profit and then purchase a "Move-up" home. As the graph shows, buyer interest in the $300-399K price range is less than 2/3rds of the buyer interest in the first-time homes, and at the $400-499K price range it drops to less than 1/3rd the interest.

Single Family Homes above $500,000 drop off significantly, with no range exceeding 6% of total sale. For owners in these price ranges, it's very tough to sell for what the home is worth simply because there is little to no demand right now.

The condominium market saw much the same results, skewed a little lower due to the lower Fair Market Value that condos demand versus a single family home.

In this case we see the $100-199K price range at about 1/3rd of the total market. I hear you ask "Lower Prices? What do you mean, Lower Prices? $200-299K makes up MORE of the condo market than that range for Single Family Homes!!" This is true, however that's not an entirely accurate portrayal of the price range. Included in the condominium numbers are a sub-class called "Detached Condominiums".

Have you ever looked at a new development of single family homes and wondered why the homes had tiny little yards? Those are Detached Condominiums- Non-conforming lot sizes, often only slightly larger than the house itself. This category, this "Sub-Class" of condo, makes up a large number of those condos in the $200-299K and $300-399K price ranges. Somewhere between a single family home and an apartment style condo, it's difficult (and inaccurate) to compare these with your traditional multi-unit condominium complex.

What 2009 has shown us is that there has been a shift in buying trends. in '05 through '07, buyers purchased more and more elaborate homes, with high-end upgrades and expensive options. Today's buyer wants a simple, clean home that they can enjoy for the next decade, improve over time, and make it into their own. In short, buyers are no longer concerned with buying a house, instead they want to make a home.

Posted by Paul Long, COO and Executive Listing Specialist
Questions or Comments? Email me at paul@alistrealtygroup.com
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5910 68th Dr NE, Marysville, WA

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Mon, 31 May 2010 14:50:36 -0700

I just finished uploading this Single Family Home for sale, 5910 68th Dr NE, Marysville, WA

Great Deal in a Great Neighborhood! This like new modern two story sits in a charming community, close to shopping, I-5, and recreation. Vacant and move-in ready, your sure to enjoy this home for years to come! Dont miss out on the tremendous value and great location this home offers.

1610 88th Dr SE, Everett, WA

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Mon, 31 May 2010 14:47:26 -0700

I just finished uploading this Single Family Home for sale, 1610 88th Dr SE, Everett, WA

Fantastic daylight basement rambler. This cute little home is much more than meets the eye when you first pull up to the front of the house- It's narrow forward profile disguising the nearly 1800sqft of living space contained within. This home is perfect for the first time buyer or for those ready to downsize! Ready for a light rehab project, this home boasts large rooms, huge deck, and an open floorplan. Backed against a greenbelt, this quiet cul-de-sac home is close to Highways 2 and 9, just the other side of Ebey Island from Everett and I-5. Close to shopping and recreation... And just a short commute to the city center. This kind of opportunity only comes along once in a while, don't let it pass you by!

4430 116th St NE, Marysville, WA

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Mon, 31 May 2010 14:46:01 -0700

I just finished uploading this Single Family Home for sale, 4430 116th St NE, Marysville, WA

Seller's loss is your gain! Circumstances force the sale of this charming home. Perfect for the first time home buyer in North Marysville- Across the street from Marshall Elementary, this charming home is close to I-5, Seattle Premium Outlet Mall, Tulalip Casino, and all sorts of shopping and entertainment! With it's fully-fenced back yard, outbuilding, dog run, and large back deck, this home is sure to bring you years of enjoyment. The level yard is abound with possibilities, from fruit trees to gardens, decorative landscaping, or simply enjoy it as is! The large lot and mature landscape is sure to bring you years of continued enjoyment. Don't wait, come today to see for yourself what a rare find this home really is!

9910 272nd St NW, Stanwood, WA

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Mon, 31 May 2010 14:44:21 -0700

I just finished uploading this Residential for sale, 9910 272nd St NW, Stanwood, WA

Residential stick built home for the price of a condo. Right in the heart of Stanwood, minutes to Camano Island, Warm Beach, and local shops/restaurants. This great little house will make a fine first home, and later rental for a long term investment. Fully fenced front yard, close to many ammenities, and a real value. Compact and cozy, this classic home and it's white picket fence are a piece of Americana placed into the 21st century. Located just off downtown in the historic city of Stanwood, it sits nestled in at the head of a row of its contemporaries- Holding court over an entire block of classic (and historic) homes. Don't let it's age fool you, though- This home has been updated and meticulously maintained over the years to provide you with many more years of enjoyment! Come see for yourself, and all offers will be submitted.

What’s the FIRST step to buying a home?

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Sat, 22 May 2010 14:27:22 -0700

STEP # 1 - Decide to Buy!

Well, as simple as it sounds, "deciding to buy" truly is the first step to home ownership. Since buying a home may be unfamiliar territory for some and such an important decision for most, we tend to let our fears paralyze us.

You should base your decision on facts, not fears. So, if you're contemplating home ownership, keep this in mind:

If you can afford to pay rent, then you can probably afford to pay a mortgage for a home of your own.
There's no wrong or right time to buy a home. Just find a good deal and be sure you have the financial capacity to hold on to that investment long term.
Not having a significant down payment stashed away doesn't mean you cannot buy. There are several loan programs available to home buyers that require minimal or even zero down.
Buying a home doesn't have to be a complex process. There are many professionals who can guide you along the way -- the first, is your Real Estate Consultant.

There are many benefits to owning a home; such as providing a sense of security, knowing that you're investing in yourself and your family, as well as having the freedom to paint or decorate to your taste, not your landlord's. There are several financial benefits to home ownership as well; like tax breaks, building equity and appreciating long-term value (all things that you won't receive while "renting").

Regardless of which benefits are driving your decision to buy, don't let your fears keep you from taking that first step. Stay focused on the facts, the benefits and the rewarding outcome instead.

How to sell a home for the most money: Siding

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Sat, 22 May 2010 14:23:36 -0700

If you are set to sell a home for the most money in your current market you might want to consider replacing the siding. This is only really needed if the siding is old or failing, you can give a high quiality exterior paint job in place of redoing the siding. If you do end up wanting to replace the siding then there are a few kinds that will attract the most interest from buyers.

1. Hardy plank (A durable cement based siding)

2. Cedar (If taken care of properly will last a really long time)

3. Vynil (The vapor barrier must be installed correctly with this siding, but it will last)

You should consult with your local Real estate professional to get some referrals for inspectors to determine wether the siding should be replaced first, and then they can help you find some contractors too. Then have them run comparables of your area to set a good market price, and you should be on your way to selling for the most money in your area.

101 Things to do in Snohomish county: #83 Kayak Point beach - The A List Realty Group

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Sat, 22 May 2010 14:20:56 -0700

This is probably our favorite beach to come and play at during the summer. Kayak point has all the best for a day at the beach. Picnic covered areas, long beaches, boardwalk, large well cared for playground, and fields for frisbee, football or whatever. There is a $5.00 charge to park due to the popularity, but it is well worth it for a fun day in the sun.

Just get off at exit 199 in Marysville from I-5 North or South and head west on Marine Dr until you come to Kayak point park on your left.

Thank you for being a part of 101 in Snohomish please invite all of your friends to join the tour!

101 Things to do in Snohomish county: #84 Mardini's - The A List Realty Group

A List Realty Group Inc. (Keller Williams Realty e2pllc) — Sat, 22 May 2010 14:19:45 -0700

I met with some very nice people today and ate at Mardini's for the first time. I enjoyed the french dip that I had very much, the meat was prepared right, the bread was soft and the Aju was delicous. They have a great bar, and very clean open restaurant. I will definitley go back to Mardini's and we suggest you try them too.

Mardini's has a full bar, but specialize in a large wine selection. There is also out door seating to soak up the Sun and Snohomish scenery.

This is a shot of the main dining area, you can see it is large open, and classy. This is a great restaurant and very worthy of making the list.

For more information, full menu and to contact Mardini's go here http://www.mardinis.com/restaurant.htm

Thank you all for being a part of 101 in Snohomish, invite your friends to join the tour!