Moses Lake Real Estate

Moses Lake December Events

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 23:44:26 -0600

December Free Family Saturday
December 5, 2009
Moses Lake

Description:
Visit MAC anytime between the hours of 12 noon and 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 5 and create your own holiday ornament.

Location:
Moses Lake Museum & Art Center
228 West Third Ave.
Moses Lake, WA 98837

Admission:
FREE

Other Information:
A free family art activity open to all ages on a first come, first serve basis.

Contact Information:
Contact: Ann Golden
Web site: www.mlrec.com/museum.html
Email: agolden@ci.moses-lake.wa.us
Phone: 509-766-9395

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Moses Lake Market Conditions

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:34:01 -0600

It looks like the last month has slowed down for us in pendings. We had more pendings last year in the month of November then we do this year. So is the First Time Homebuyer Credit working for us?

It definately has impacted the solds as you see there were more sold in the month of November this year then last year at this time.

With 367 active listings at this time there is tons to choose from!

December always ends up being a pretty slow month for activity with everyone gearing up for the New Year. It is always a great time to start getting your house ready to sell if you are going to list in the New Year.

Don't forget to get the advice of a professional Realtor on what you can do to make your house more sellible we are more then happy to help!

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

I've Been Busy Lately....

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 10:29:00 -0600

Yes I know I haven't been very busy blogging lately and I'll tell you why....

I'm building a HOUSE! Yes me, I'm building a house. It's a very pretty blue house that has been in a box in my basement for the last 6 years. I bought this 'house' with good intentions years ago thinking "I'm going to build this house for my daughter," and I never got around to it. Now instead of building it for my daughter her and I are able to build it together.

This is what it will look like (I hope) when we are finished. Thats provided, of course, that I finish it.

I did start assemblying it in the middle of my living room in hopes that if it is in the middle of everything I will actually work on it.

I've also determined that until it's finished there will be no Christmas decorations. Right now it's in a pile of pieces so Christmas might be a little slim this year. At least though, I'll be able to cross off that one thing on my 'thing to do list' that has been there for the last 6 years.

The one thing I am glad about is the fact that me and my 2 girls can work on it as a team instead of them just letting me do all the work. They have been doing all the sanding and painting and then I am there with the glue gun to put it all together. If only real houses were put together with glue guns life would be so much simpler! But for now I'll just keep plugging along on the pile of pieces that lie in my living room and I'll post pictures when I'm done.

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Interested in Equity Protection?

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:03:39 -0600

Equity Protection for your Peace of Mind

We have insurance for everything else these days so why not another one for your house! Except this insurance is supposed to insulate you from the fluctuations in the Real Estate market. With this they say you can protect 100% of your financial investment in your home.

Formed by a group of Fortune 500 executives they have launched Working Equity Inc a new form of homeowner protection that has never been seen before.

"Homeowners who purchase Equity Protection will receive a payment if their local housing market index declines when they sell their home. When a homeowner purchases Equity Protection, Working Equity uses independent data to determine the local housing index at the zip code level. After a fixed waiting period expires, if the homeowner sells their home and the local housing index has declined, Working Equity will pay the homeowner an Equity Protection payment equal to their home value multiplied by the percentage decline in their local housing index."

While the actual value of the insurance is a little complicated to determine and it is based on a index created by a third party to the Equity Protection company it doesn't sound like a half bad way to deal with the declining markets and ensuring that you don't end up owing more on the property then it is worth in a down market.

Here are the 3 different scenarios they present on their website;

Scenario A: You sell your home for $225,000 - a $25,000 loss:
At the time of sale, the local market index is 90, a 10% decline. Since the local housing market index is down, you receive an Equity Protection Payment of $25,000.

Scenario B: You sell your home for $265,00 - a $15,000 profit:
At the time of sale, the local market index is 95, a 5% decline. You still receive an Equity Protection payment of $12,500 since the local housing market index is down when you sell.

Scenario C: You sell your home for $265,000 - a $15,000 profit:
At the time of sale, the local market index is 110, a 10% increase. Since the local housing market index is higher, the Equity Protection contract terminates with no payment.

There are 3 different types of plans available currently: Lifetime Protection, Flexible Protection, Flexible Term. The cost they advertise is 1-2% of the purchase price either paid month to month, in installments, or all at once.

It is definitely an intriguing idea but would love to hear from those that have had experience with this company or this type of insurance.

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Moses Lake Black Friday

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 16:51:44 -0600

Moses Lake Black Friday

Yes I know we are ummmmm challenged in the shopping area here in Moses Lake. Because of this you will find that most people when they want to do a large amount of shopping search outside our area and hit either Wenatchee (1 hr) or Kennewick (1 hr). But did you know Moses Lake has our own Black Friday right here!

Yes, it's true we do! Granted there are obviously not as many shops to choose from but boy do people get out for this event. So I will give you the list of stores that you will be able to visit here in town on Black Friday.

Walmart: In store specials will be available at 5:00 a.m. The local store here in town has let shoppers into the store so they do not need to stand out in the cold.

Staples: In store specials will begin at 6:00 a.m. They are however running an ad on some items for a "buy it now for less then Black Friday price." Might be something to check out!

Radio Shack : This store will be opening their doors at 5:30 a.m. on Friday

Gamestop : I called the local store and he said they are opening at 6:00 a.m. and closing at 9:00 p.m. on Black Friday.

Home Depot: They will open their doors at 6:00 a.m. on Friday. They are also doing tons of things on sale right now at a lower cost then they will be on Friday. Check it out here

Lowes: They are also opening at 6:00 a.m. Check out their Black Friday advertisements here

Ok granted, the list looks pretty minuscule but at least you don't have to get up at 3:30 to drive to the Tri-Cities! I am sure, and hope, that some of the local small businesses will be involved this year as well. So don't forget to drive thru the downtown corridor to see what's open at this ungodly hour!

Have a happy and enjoyable Thanksgiving and go out and support your local community!

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Moses Lake Events

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 23:02:36 -0600

Moses Lake Real Estate Agent Heather Adkinson

Habitat for Humanity Festival of Trees
November 28, 2009

Description:
It’s time once again for the Festival of Trees Auction. This annual fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Moses Lake is celebrating 15 years. The festivities start at 5:30 pm with registration, the silent auction, social hour and hors d’oeuvres. Their will be a short presentation followed by the live auction starting at 8 pm.

The event features a dinner as well as a silent & live auction which will feature at least 10 beautifully decorated trees, with most having gifts beneath or hidden within the branches. All proceeds from this event go towards Habitat’s mission of eliminating substandard housing in our community. All Habitat for Humanity homes are sold to the selected families at a no-profit, financed with no-interest loan and each family must invest upwards of 450 hours of sweat equity into the building of their home. This is a hand up and not a hand out program.

Donations are being sought for the Festival of Trees, items for both the live and silent auctions are needed. The success of the fundraiser depends on the generosity of individuals and businesses in our community. Show your support for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Moses Lake by calling Curtis at 509-765-0924 for tickets to the event, to donate items for the auction or to make a monetary donation.

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

I'm Feeling Vindicated Today!

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:17:02 -0600

It truly is a good day in ones life when you are basically told by someone who is supposed to have more knowledge then you that hummm maybe you were RIGHT! That's right today is a day that I was right!

Write it down quick for all you non-believers in me being right, I have proof! And thats right the round of applause is expected......

Now let me explain....I have a buyer that really wants a house, so we wrote up that great fantastic house that is unlike any other house in town. By this I mean some of the interior finishes and touches as well as all energy saving appliances that are ultimately going to save you dollars in the end.

We wrote this offer up wayyyyyyy under their asking price and submitted it with a nice letter explaining that because of appraisal issues we felt that our price would be right where it would come out on appraisal. They took it! And so there it began, the appraisal was done and we waited over a week for the appraisal to be turned in. It was a local appraiser, I felt he knew his values no problem! Wrong! He came in a measly $6000.00 under the agreed upon price. Seriously are you kidding me!

With that the lender and I got together and said ok "what's going on here?" I KNEW my values, I did my CMA I knew where that value was. I took a look at that appraisal and guess what I found? Sloppiness, pure sloppiness. The appraiser rated all the appliances in the house as "typical" not noticing that they were all energy savers and included tons of other extras. Then the one that took the cake is where there was a box to check off for "fence", It was blank!

Directly on the contract a nice vinyl fence was written in with the date that the fence would be complete. Apparently his eyes weren't working that day. So we asked for a reconsideration of value from the appraiser with all of those issues on it, as well as other comps that could have been used.

Then we waited for 72 hours! I got a phone call from the mortgage broker today AND I WAS RIGHT! This same appraiser had gone back out to take a look again and determined that the price of the house was actually $15,000.00 higher then his previous appraisal.

I'm giving the appraiser the benefit of the doubt and thinking you know, maybe he had an off day for that first appraisal. We all do make mistakes sometimes. Sometimes though those mistakes cost people the homes of their dreams.

Heather

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

CLUE Reports and How They Affect You

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 16:00:38 -0600

Moses Lake Real Estate Agent Heather Adkinson

Also known as a Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange is a claims history database that enables all insurance companies to access consumers claims information when they are underwriting an insurance policy.

Here is how it works….even if you as a homeowner have never had any claims or problems getting home insurance this will still affect you. If you happen to be purchasing a house that has had claims made against the home you may be unable to get homeowners insurance.

Another flaw in the system is that the only one able to obtain a clue report on the house (besides the insurance agency) is the homeowner of the property. Make sure when you are writing up a contract on a house that the insurance contingency paragraph is marked on the agreement.

If when a homeowner reviews the report and finds errors on that report they do have the ability to dispute the report at which point the owners insurance company will be contacted to try and determine if there is a valid claim or not.

Unfortunately these reports can also be used by insurance companies to determine what kind of risk you would be and can in turn affect if you get turned down for insurance. Not only do the CLUE reports cover homeowners, there is also a database that shows strictly automobile claims. Claims will only stay on your report for 5 years however.

Be aware that any hint of water damage to a property, for example, is likely to trigger a negative mark on the property's CLUE report. Well-intentioned consumers who call an insurer to merely inquire about coverage for water damage have been shocked to have their insurance cancelled.

Here are some of the worst case scenarios that have come up as taken from http://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs26-CLUE.htm

A former 21st Century Insurance fraud investigator and 32-year-old homeowner and mother was forced to get substandard homeowner's insurance at three times the normal price because the house she was purchasing was "blacklisted" on a national Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE) report.

A 79-year-old homeowner was turned down for a homeowner's policy because she made a $393 claim on her purse that had been stolen in Montreal while she was visiting her daughter.

A 75-year-old homeowner was "blacklisted" after she made a telephone inquiry about her policy coverage with Allstate, with whom she had continuous homeowner's coverage for 30 years.

The Chief of the Consumer Services Division, California Department of Insurance and Palm Springs homeowner was turned down when he attempted to get insurance for his new home. An inaccurate CLUE report showed five claims, two of which were for another property owned by the seller in a different city; two other "claims" were only for coverage inquiries and one claim was fully remedied and should not have had bearing on his eligibility.

Be aware that filing any type of claim with your insurance company may result in issues that you ought to not have to deal with.

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Extended First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 11:53:09 -0600

Moses Lake Real Estate Agent Heather Adkinson

Feature	Jan 1-November 30 2009	December 1-April 30 2010
First time Home Buyer Amount of Credit	$8000.00 ($4000.00 married filing separately	$8000.00 ($4000.00 married filing separately
First time Home Buyer Amount of Credit	May not have had interest in a principal residence for 3 yrs prior to purchase	Same
Current Home owner Amount of Credit	No Provision	$6500.00 ($3250.00 married filing separately)
Effective Date Current Home Owner	No provision	Date of Enactment
Current Home Owner Definition for Eligibility	No provision	Must have used the home sold or being sold as a principal residence consecutively for 5 yrs of the previous 8
Termination of Credit	Purchases after November 30 2009 (Becomes April 30 2010 on enactment)	Purchases after April 30, 2010
Binding Contract Rule	None	So long as written and binding contract to purchase is in effect on April 30, 2010 the purchase will have until July 1, 2010 to close
Income Limits	$75,000-single, $150,000 married Additional $20,000 phase out	$125,000-single $225,000-married Additional $20,000 phase out
Limitation on cost of Purchase Homes	None	$800,000 enactment date
Purchase by Dependent	No provision	Ineligible
Anti-fraud rule	None	Purchaser must attach documentation of purchase to tax return.

Print this out for reference and you have everything you need!

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Moses Lake Waterfront

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:09:09 -0600

Moses Lake Agent Heather Adkinson

MLS 29152187 Prime piece of waterfront located west facing on Moses Lake. This vacant land is 1.97 acres in an established neighborhood that has CC&R's but still allows you the flexibility to do what you want with your land

There is an easement that travels down the side of the property to allow the neighbors access to their garage. Full acerage is irrigitable and you can have horses if you would like to.

Waterfront has 100 ft of useable land. Wake up to incredible sunrises and sunsets.

This property is the lowest price waterfront in town by far and sellers would be willing to carry a contract. Currently priced at $175,000

If you are looking for waterfront in Moses Lake, WA feel free to contact me for more information.

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Moses Lake Events November

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:17:03 -0600

Moses Lake Real Estate Agent Heather Adkinson

Don't forget about all the fun things to do with all the upcoming holidays here in town.

MAC Holiday Show

November 20, 2009 - December 26, 2009

Moses Lake

Description: This festive Holiday Sale features the latest in quality fine crafts and original artwork from artisans around the Northwest. You won't want to miss out on this unique opportunity to discover those wonderful one-of-a-kind gifts for the Holiday Season.

Location: Moses Lake Museum & Art Center

228 West Third Ave.

Moses Lake, WA 98837

Admission: FREE

Other Information: Opening reception is on November 20, 6:00-9:30 p.m.

Pasted from <http://events.tourgrantcounty.com/event.asp?event_id=2857&site_id=GCESITE7150207&event_start_date=11/11/2009&event_end_date=11/11/2010&category_id=&region_id=&keywords=>

Moses Lake Museum and Art Center 51st Anniversary & Holiday Show

November 20, 2009

Moses Lake

Description:

-Live Entertainment

-Holiday Food and Drinks

-Gallery Art Show

-Silent Auction

Location:

Moses Lake Museum & Art Center

228.w 3rd Avenue

Admission: Free

Pasted from <http://events.tourgrantcounty.com/event.asp?event_id=2875&site_id=GCESITE7150207&event_start_date=11/11/2009&event_end_date=11/11/2010&category_id=&region_id=&keywords=>

Both of these activities are completely free so come enjoy a fun evening downtown meeting your neighbors and do it at no cost to you!

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Moses Lake Real Market Statistics

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:36:04 -0600

Moses Lake Real Estate Agent Heather Adkinson

It was suprising to me to see that we had 37 closings this last month. Most of them actually in the upper price ranges. This month look to see how many of the homes that are closing are in the under $200,000 that were trying to take advantage of the now extended home credit.

Comparing it to last years chart we look right on track for the same numbers. I will be interested to see where November places us and if it makes a difference in numbers compared to last year.

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

What Do All Those Letters Mean? Part 1

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 11:45:51 -0600

I know to us in the Real Estate Industry we don’t think twice about throwing
up those letters after our names. I think we often fail to recognize that
others might not know what those certifications stand for and the training that
we had to take to get those silly letters after our name

I am going to try and give you a brief rundown of those letters and how it
might benefit you as either a Seller or Buyer

ABR- Accredited Buyers Representative: Education for this includes completion of a 2 day
course, an ABR elective course, and experience representing only a Buyer in a
transaction.

ALC-Accredited Land Consultant: 6 completed courses
of required curriculum, 3 years experience in the sale and lease of vacant
land. volume requirements of at least 10 million in land sales or 25 separate
land transactions. Must pass an Exam and also be reviewed by the accreditation
panel.

CCIM-Certified Commercial Investment Member: these
members are educated in commercial leasing, sale and valuation. Four classes
are required for this designation, each class lasts 5 days for 8 hours. You
must also complete a 3 credit elective course. After this you must attend 3
different Networking events and then submit a portfolio of experience. Finally
you must pass a exam.

CIPS-Certified International Property Specialists:
These members are educated in International Sales. This requires a multitude of
training on different countries and requirements

CPM-Certified Property Manager: Education in Property Management

CRB-Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager: These Designees are better able to streamline operations, intergrate new technology and apply new trends and business strategies. To earn this designation you must apply for admission, hold and maintain membership as a Realtor, have one year management experience, earn 12 credits within the following 4 years after application.

CRS-Council of Residential Specialist: This designation is awarded to experienced Realtors who complete adbvanced training in listing and selling and meet rigorous production requirements. The requirements for this vary depending on your various sales experience.

CRE-Counselor of Real Estate: This is a membership that is by invitation only. These professionals provide objective advice on real property and land-related matters.

GREEN-NAR's Green Designation: This designation means that your agent would have the highest level training possible in "green" features within homes. This includes how to market and understand and target that market that is seeking green properties. This requires a 12 hour Core Course and a 6 hr Elective Course in residential, commercial, or property management.

To Be Continued....

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Appraisal Fraud is up 46% From Same Time Last Year

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 23:31:43 -0600

Eye-opening blog about what the problem really may be...

Via Bill Ladewig Your FHA Guru - FHA and VA Loans Since 1970:

For those of you who missed Think Big, Work Small this morning... according to InterThinx, the mortgage fraud specialists, appraisal fraud is up 46% from the same time in 2008. InterThinx

But wait, who would be the perpetrators, has not HVCC made us safe? Thanks to HVCC, Mortgage brokers, those evil, underhanded, self-serving scourges of real estate and sole cause of the mortgage crisis have not been able to order appraisals (except FHA) or even talk to appraisers in the third quarter of 2009.

OMG, that leaves (choke) the innocent victims of wicked mortgage brokers, Banks. There must be some mistake because we all know that banks would never do anything underhanded.

I am sure we will soon learn, probably from a trusted politician, that, possibly, the cause was appraisers still tainted by previous mortgage broker contact. These appraisers will certainly be sent to rehab at taxpayer expense.

Soon, thank god, due to vigilent efforts of our trusted banks and politicians, the world will be a better place. Mortgage brokers will have disappeared, banks will make all home loans unfettered by pesky competitors and politicians will be provided will deserved taxpayer paid Cayman Island vacations to visit their secret bank accounts.

Is that the happy ending what you want?

Your Fha Guru

Bill Ladewig
800.664.SAVE (7283)
Bill@yourfhaguru.com

Rate Lock Advisory is updated several times a day and is available at http://www.yourfhaguru.com

San Diego FHA and VA Home Loans Escondido Mortgages Escondido Localism San Diego FHA and VA Home Loans San Diego Localism San Diego UFMIP Escondido Mortgages Escondido Localism San Diego Mortgage What is APR

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

ATV Corn Maze...may be first of it's kind.

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 23:30:23 -0600

ATV Corn Maze a fun way to spend your time...

This ATV corn maze an be found in a small town outside of Moses Lake which overlooks the Columbia River. This maze is situated on over 100 acres whereas normal corn mazes cover 1 to 2 acres.

Mike Brown and Chuck Yarbro had the amazing foresight to think beyond the normal corn maze and create something that the whole family can enjoy on their ATV's. For one unit (1 ATV) it will cost you $30.00 to go thru the 4 miles of trails on your ATV. If you don't have your own don't worry they can rent you an ATV for $50.00 to complete the maze.

The maze will be open on the weekends until the first of the year so you have plenty of time to enjoy it. You can also get group reservations and hours by visiting their Facebook page

*These photos used with permission by the boys at the ATV Corn Maze*

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Ghosts & Goblins...Nope Just Princesses & Puppies

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 09:22:52 -0600

It seemed to be a very slow Halloween this year. I thought I would run out of candy earlier then I did. What with the economy and all I had candy on a budget!

Moses Lake Business Owners once again pulled off another downtown trick-or-treating event. A BIG thank-you goes out to them, we know it's been a slow year and then they had to buy all that candy! You are appreciated!

My princesses & puppy enjoyed going out to get candy that then is forgotten about after a week.

I have to say the funniest costume I saw was a little 2 year old dressed as Nellie from Little House on the Prairie except this 2 year old wanted to wear a mask too. She was a SCARY Nellie from Little House on the Prairie. Is that possible??

My second runner up had to be the mother that came to the door with a plastic bag saying "my baby is in the car asleep." Really, Really, I don't know if I believed her.

We enjoyed the night and everybody seemed to enjoy our "little doggy in the window."

P.S. Don't tell my son as he gets older that I dressed him up like this. Let's just keep it to ourselves!

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Moses Lake Full List of Halloween Activities

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 23:17:55 -0500

Full List of Moses Lake Halloween Weekend Events...brought to you by the Columbia Basin Herald

MOSES LAKE

· AutoZone - The1320 Performance car club is giving free candy to trick-or-treaters from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday.

· Downtown Moses Lake - The Moses Lake Business Association is hosting LakeTown Landing Trick-or-Treat. The event is from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. along Third Avenue and Sinkiuse Square. Merchants from local businesses are open late to hand-out candy to kids. For more information, call 509-765-7888.

· Grant County Fairgrounds - Nightscare Production is hosting a 15-room haunted house at the Grant County Fairgrounds. The event is at 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. for children's hour. The adult version opens at 8 p.m. The cost of admission is $5 for adults and $4 for kids 12 and under. Grant County Fairgrounds is located at 3953 Airway Drive N.E., in Moses Lake.
For more information, call 509-509-771-2479.

· Moses Lake High School - The Moses Lake High School Key Club and Associated Student Body organized a trick-or-treating event from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Students are giving away candy throughout the halls in the high school. The event is open to children ages 12 and younger.
A canned food drive to benefit UNICEF is offered at the same time.
The high school is located at 803 E. Sharon Ave.
For more information, call 509-766-2666.

· Perkins Family Restaurant - The Red Hat Society of Moses Lake is having a Halloween party at Perkins Family Restaurant at 10 a.m. Participants are urged to wear a costume or pajamas.

· Samaritan Healthcare - The hospital is offering free X-rays of Halloween candy on Halloween night, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the hospital lobby. A staff member from the radiology department is conducting the X-rays.
Community Relations Coordinator Connie Opheikens said about 75 children had candy X-rayed last year.
The hospital is located at 801 E. Wheeler Road.
For more information, call 509-793-9645.

EPHRATA
The Ephrata Chamber of Commerce is hosting an annual downtown trick-or-treat Friday, Oct. 30 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
At least 20 local businesses are handing out candy to children. Everyone is welcome to participate.
For more information, call executive director Tia Tracy at 509-754-4656.

QUINCY

· Downtown Quincy - Quincy Valley Chamber of Commerce is hosting a downtown trick-or-treat Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The 32 local businesses participating will be displaying an orange paper pumpkin in their window.
Residents are required to dress in costume in order to participate.
For more information, call 509-787-2140.

· State Route 281 - A corn maze is open from noon to 6 p.m. through Halloween. Night hours can be arranged for groups to fit their needs.There is a picnic area and water, soda and snacks available on site.
Admission is $5 per person and free for children under five. Groups of 10 or more pay $4 per person.
The maze is located two miles south of Quincy on SR 281.
For more information, call Carrie Durfee at 509-750-6937.

OTHELLO
The Othello Rodeo Association is offering a straw maze Friday night and Halloween night. The maze is haunted from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Halloween night, with a non-haunted version from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. The cost of admission is $5 per person. Friday the maze is open from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Attendees get $1 off their ticket price if they bring canned food to be donated to the Othello Food Bank.
The maze is located at 821 S. Reynolds Road.
For more information, call 509-488-2683.

MATTAWA
There is a 100-acre all-terrain vehicle corn maze shaped to form the map of the United States near Mattawa.
Special hours for the Halloween week are 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and noon to midnight Friday and Saturday.
The maze is haunted Halloween night, complete with special effects and scares.
To reach the maze from Interstate 90, take exit 137 to state Route 26 (south of Vantage Bridge). After one mile, turn right onto state Route 243. Proceed one mile to get to the maze entrance.
The maze is open until January, weather permitting.
For more information, call 509-760-3789 or visit www.atvcornmaze.com

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Is Anyone Else Concerned?

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:59:00 -0500

I'm worried!!

There I said it. Is anyone else worried about the month of November? How the heck are we going to get all these houses closed in the month of November? Do you think the government realized that the 30th fell on a Monday following a holiday weekend?

Here's why I think they have no choice but to extend the credit. There is no way the recording offices and the title companies are going to be able to handle the flood of houses that need to record on the 30th.

Then on top of that! Seattle, poor Seattle, with the work furlough in effect the government in Seattle decided to make, I think it's 2 days before Thanksgiving mandatory days off for the recording office. So not only do we have the Holiday to worry about we also have furlough days.

This is not shaping up to be anything but a nightmare for all of us. I know that I have quite a few that need to close in November and I need to be on my toes at all times this month. Days off in November will not exist. I encourage all of you to keep on top of everything as our clients can't afford anything else.

I don't know about you but I won't sleep much this November!

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

The Demise of Small Town USA....

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 23:21:04 -0500

Wilson Creek WA

There once was a small town that was settled in 1870. This town housed those who decided to go West. In 1892 the great railroad was brought in and brought with it people and supplies.

This small town slowly grew and with it the people came and settled and built homes and businesses. This small town located just 30 minutes north of Moses Lake continued to flourish each year as the train brought in more and more settlers.

Soon the people that had been coming to Wilson Creek began moving out of the small town and into a "big" small town Moses Lake.

Today Wilson Creek stands alone and empty as the buildings are left standing empty and families move from small, small towns to the convenience of the larger towns close by. These small towns were once all we had of a bustling economy

and the security of the knowledge that everything was good in the world. These were the towns where we'd say good-bye to the kids at 9:00 in the morning and they'd ride off on their bikes to enjoy the mysteries of the fields that surrounded them. This is what we have left of those times.

With the migration of people to the bigger cities we have left the safety of the small towns and with it we have left the dreams and visions that the community once had. Now all that we have left are the empty buildings that once held so much joy and happiness for families. With the loss of the people the buildings have lost their joy and once again are just sticks and mortar.

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Read It Here First! Tax Credit Enhanced AND Extended!

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:46:20 -0500

Breaking News!!

Via Mark Hall Vancouver Washington Real Estate (Elite Realty NW - Keller Williams, Vancouver Washington):

Read It Here First! Tax Credit Enhanced AND Extended!

As reported by FOX 12 Oregon

WASHINGTON -- Senators agreed Wednesday to extend a popular tax credit for first-time homebuyers and to offer a reduced credit to some repeat buyers.

The tax credit provides up to $8,000 to first-time homebuyers but is set to expire at the end of November.

Senators agreed to extend the existing tax credit for first-time homebuyers while offering a reduced credit of up to $6,500 to repeat buyers who have owned their current homes for at least five years, said Regan Lachapelle, a spokeswoman for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev.

The tax credits would be available to homebuyers who sign sales agreements by the end of April. They would have until the end of June to close on their new homes, said a congressional aide, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to publicly discuss the deal.

Senators were still negotiating the expansion of a separate tax credit that lets money-losing businesses get refunds for taxes paid in previous years, providing them with an immediate source of cash.

Senators in both political parties were hoping to add both tax provisions to a bill that would give people running out of unemployment insurance benefits up to 20 more weeks of federal aid. The Senate could vote on the overall bill as early as Thursday, but lawmakers were still haggling over several unrelated amendments Wednesday evening.

Popular bills like the one to extend unemployment benefits often attract amendments that would have a difficult time passing on their own.

Republicans were demanding that they be given a chance to offer amendments to restrict federal aid to the beleaguered community activist group ACORN and on requiring that people receiving unemployment insurance be processed through E-Verify, an Internet-based system that employers use to check on the immigration status of new hires.

Majority Democrats have refused to add the amendments.

When you choose us to handle your Vancouver Washington real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver Washington dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here.

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Moses Lake Real Estate

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:01:31 -0500

Trendgraphix Facts and Trends No wonder it feels like we’re busier then we were in April it’s because we are! We’re bucking the normal trend and having our busy time here through the fall. Could it be possible it’s from the $8000.00 tax credit?

If you are looking to Buy or Sell Real Estate in Grant County I would love to Help! Call or text me at 509-760-7733

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Moses Lake Steak House

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:34:09 -0500

Moses Lake Real Estate...Don't forget guys that we have a fantastic little steak house on the other side of the lake that provides great entertainment and meals! Let's keep them busy over the winter months. Here is their schedule for the next couple weeks

October 31st

Our Trick or Treat
"Retreat"
Featuring
Dave Irish
performing covers from
Jazz to James Taylor
In addition to our
regular menu
we are featuring our
"Fall Fare Menu"
mixed green salad w/
pear and walnuts
Sausage and Harvest
Vegetable Stew
Homemade Bread Pudding
$12.95
(tax and gratuity not included)
Live Music
6:30-8:30pm

Tuesday
Nov. 3rd
6:30pm

Join the
Moses Pointe Steakhouse
and
White Heron Cellars
owner and vintner
Cameron Fries
as we
Celebrate
the
Harvest

Four delicious courses
Four exceptional locally produced wines
$45.00
per person
price includes
tax gratuity

Saturday
November 7th

Dining
with
Swing Shift
A six piece ensemble
performing their Debute CD

Doors open at 5:00
Live Music 6:30-8:30
~Featured Menu~
Mixed green salad
Apple Sherry Chicken on wild rice pilaf
Seasonal Vegetables
Fresh Bread
Fruit Cobbler
$15.00
(excludes tax
and gratuity)

If you are looking to Buy or Sell Real Estate in Grant County I would love to Help! Call or text me at 509-760-7733

Follow Heather on Twitter @ hjadkinson

Become a fan on Facebook http://preview.tinyurl.com/ykcrkm2

Follow my Moses Lake Real Estate Blog @ http://hjadkinson.wordpress.com/

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Now this is getting Ridiculous

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 23:17:37 -0500

Moses Lake Real Estate....Yep I said it, I've gone there, I'm shaking my head in frustration. The banks right now are so busy trying to cover their butts that they now have addendums and contracts to sign for EVERYTHING. Just recently I have

been inundated with paperwork from the banks that now I as the agent have to sign. Here sign this thing saying there are no other addendum other then what you sent to the bank already. Here sign this that says you know the client gets their earnest money back if the appraisal comes back low. Isn't this a transaction between the seller and the buyer? Why the heck do I need to start signing my name to these things?

Along with this has come more inspections. Brand new house? We still need you to get the septic inspected by an outside source. Community water system? We don't care we want the flow rate for it. It has seriously gotten to the point of virtually ridiculous. Banks can't seem to find the middle ground for real estate. They are so busy right now with CYA that they are going to make everybody else responsible for their bad lending practices and absolve themselves of all responsibility.

Maybe I'm just over-reacting to the stacks of FHA documentation I had to go thru and sign today. It's frustrating to see perfectly legitimate transactions go sideways because the banks think that you crossed your eyes wrong at them. The scary thing is though is that I don't think we've even seen the worst of it yet. Bring it on banks, I will see your craziness and deal with it through gritted teeth and a smile.

If you are looking to Buy or Sell Real Estate in Grant County I would love to Help! Call or text me at 509-760-7733

Follow Heather on Twitter @ hjadkinson

Become a fan on Facebook http://preview.tinyurl.com/ykcrkm2

Follow my Moses Lake Real Estate Blog @ http://hjadkinson.wordpress.com/

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Sunday Morning Thoughts

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:33:42 -0500

t's a quiet Sunday morning and here I sit and listen to gun shots in the distance (duck hunting) and the quiet breathing of the baby taking a nap. As much as I hate that first morning cry that wakes me up at 6:30 a.m. I have to be thankful to be able to see the sun rise over the neighbors house and the crisp cold feel of the frost bitten ground on my toes. With my warm cup of coffee in my hand I will be grateful for all that I have as the world around me falls apart.

Things may become difficult at times but I do the best I can and persevere. I may have bills that I can't pay until "that next check comes in," but I will be grateful for all that I do have. As I listen to the news of children being kidnapped and murdered and families that are losing their homes I will hang on desperately to my family and hope that they will do the same.

You can take everything away and strip me of all material possesions and I would be left with..... EVERYTHING, because my family can not be taken away. I hope that all of us make it through these tough couple years ahead of us. I hope even more that you can thrive and find your place in the world. But I hope even more that this time teaches all of us that we can lose everything and still have the world.

If you are looking to Buy or Sell Real Estate in Grant County I would love to Help! Call or text me at 509-760-7733

Follow Heather on Twitter @ hjadkinson

Become a fan on Facebook http://preview.tinyurl.com/ykcrkm2

Follow my Moses Lake Real Estate Blog @ http://hjadkinson.wordpress.com/

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837

www.propertiesinmoseslake.com

Is Boeing Coming to Moses Lake?

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 00:01:33 -0500

As I've written before about the airport in Moses Lake, WA you should know about the amazing runway we have for out at the airport. For years now there have been rumblings every now and again about Boeing coming to Moses Lake most recently in the last month regarding Boeing and the new 787 program.

Of course the alternate proposal for that is also South Carolina. If we look at thelikelihood of Boeing moving that program here it would not be likely. Although we do have one of the longest runways and some of the cheapest electricity rates in Washington State we can't compete with the fact that South Carolina is not a labor union state.

Boeing has slowly over the past 7 years been pulling out of our state and we seem to turn our backs and pretend it isn't happening. No matter what the ties may be to the Northwest business is business and if they can do it somewhere else without being held hostage by unions which are in turn affecting the delivery dates for the planes we can't fault them for that.

We may be losing out on this but Boeing has signed on for testing their 747 - 800 Freightliner here in Moses Lake. Although it won't bring jobs we will get an influx of people when the testing is happening, whether they spend money or not is yet to be determined.

I know you've seen it too the green jackets on the planes as they fly overhead (Boeings way of being secretive). Next time wave hello!

If you are looking to Buy or Sell Real Estate in Grant County I would love to Help! Call or text me at 509-760-7733

Follow me on Twitter @ hjadkinson

Become a fan on Facebook http://preview.tinyurl.com/ykcrkm2

Follow my Moses Lake Real Estate Blog @ http://hjadkinson.wordpress.com/

Heather Adkinson 509-760-7733

Realtor, ABR, CNE, RCC

Windermere K-2 Realty LLC

Moses Lake, WA, 98837