Leavenworth Washington Real Estate Blog

Are you thinking about buying a home?

2008-09-01T08:44:00.001-07:00

For most people, buying a home represents one of the largest purchases they’ll ever make. Here are some factors to consider before you start shopping for your next home:

* How much money you want to spend.

* What type of home you would like.

* Where you want to live.

* When you want to move.

* How much you qualify to borrow and what type of financing is available to you.

To help you focus on affordable homes and neighborhoods and keep your expectations realistic, it pays to get pre-qualified by a lender right away. When you start your search, you will want to get pre-approved for a loan as soon as possible. The pre-approval process includes a credit check and employment verification. Once you are pre-approved and make an offer, all the lender needs to do is appraise the property you want to buy.

Why is pre-approval so important? Sellers are more likely to choose an offer that is pre-approved over an offer from someone whose financial picture is still in question. Get pre-approved and you strengthen your position in the eyes of most sellers. If you or someone you know is interested in buying a home or needs some real estate advice, please visit our website at www.WenatcheeHouses.com for buying and selling tips, MLS property searches, town and community information and more

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team

"Start Packing Today!"

When you make an offer on a home

2008-08-19T10:29:00.001-07:00

When you make an offer to buy a home, the seller has the option to accept it, reject it, or counter your offer with a different price and/or terms. In a market with strong demand, a seller may not counter an offer but merely choose the highest one.

When you find the home that fits your needs, we can help you negotiate a price that you can feel good about. Here are a few ways to strengthen your position when making an offer:

* Take the time to get pre-approved, not just pre-qualified.

* Keep contingencies to a minimum (only necessary ones like inspection, financing, etc.)

* Have a substantial earnest money deposit to show the seller that you're serious.

We're happy to help you with any questions you have about finding a home and navigating the home buying process. Please visit our website for buying and selling tips, MLS property searches, town and community information and more. You may also email or call us any time.

Blaine's Recipe of the Week: 7/14/08

2008-07-14T16:18:00.000-07:00

For me, a wonderful sauce can make any meat tast amazing. Here's one of my best that compliments any beef or lamb dish and provides that wow factor.

Dijon/Port Lamb or Beef Reduction Sauce

Drippings from meet

¾ cup port

¾ cup beef stock

¾ cup heavy cream

¾ cup shallots

3+ tablespoons fresh mint

3+ tablespoons unsalted butter

3-6 tablespoons Dijon depending on your taste (add at end)

Throw all items except the butter and dijon into a sauce pan and whisk/reduce considerably on high heat. Toward the tail end of the reduction process, add the butter and dijon.

Enjoy!

Some Easy Ways To Maintain Home Values

2008-07-02T05:39:00.001-07:00

The easiest way to maintain and improve your home's value is consistent maintenance and repair. Keeping up with seasonal issues like inspecting your roof for weather damage in the spring or cleaning gutters and downspouts in the fall keeps the time you have to spend on these tasks at a minimum. When you're thinking about the value of your home, also keep these things in mind:

__ Overall condition of your property. In addition to the above tasks, inspect your property regularly and maintain a clean home. With the pace of life getting faster, many people just don't have the time to "fix up" a new home. They want a home they can move into easily. Keeping up with maintenance and small repairs also allows you more time to enjoy your property.

__ Bedrooms and bathrooms. How many are there? Have they been remodeled or updated?

__ Outdoor area. How big is the yard? Is there a deck or patio?

__ Garage. 1, 2 or 3 cars?

__ Kitchen. How up-to-date is it? Has it been remodeled?

__ Is there a family room? How big is it?

Visit The Davidson Team at www.WenatcheeHouses.com for home maintenance tips, buying and selling tips, MLS property searches, town and community information and more!

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team

"Start Packing Today!"

Wenatchee World: Today's Real Estate Articles 6/26/08

2008-06-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

Wenatchee World: Today's Real Estate Articles 6/26/08

Wenatchee housing market still bucks trend

By Christine Pratt

World staff writer

Posted June 26, 2008

"WENATCHEE — Soaring inventory and slowing sales could be driving down area home prices, but Wenatchee is still among the nation's strongest markets for home-price appreciation, recent industry reports show. A report released last month by the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight showed that home prices in Wenatchee grew 8 percent in the first quarter of 2008, compared with the last quarter of 2007. This was the nation's third-strongest metro-area growth, after Houma/Bayou, La., with 11.2 percent growth, and Grand Junction, Colo., with 9.1 percent growth. Wenatchee topped OFHEO's fourth quarter 2007 home-appreciation list with 14 percent growth. Wenatchee has bucked the nationwide trend in declining prices. A June 24 OFHEO report shows that house prices nationally dropped 4.6 percent during the 12-month period ending in April, compared with the same period a year ago."

Click here http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080626/NEWS04/810587185/1001 for entire story!

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team

www.WenatcheeHouses.com

"Start Packing Today!"

Posted by Blaine & Erin Davidson on 06/28/2008 09:14 AM

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Safety and Security After the Sale

2008-06-23T15:30:00.001-07:00

When the move is over and you have unpacked, it's always good to do a safety check of your new home. Check the sturdiness of handrails, check for loose floorboards or tiles and put fresh batteries in the smoke alarms. You'll also want to make sure to put your transaction records in a safe place where you can easily get to them when you need them (i.e. tax time). These records might include:

- Your property deed- Closing documents & loan papers- Warranty information- Repair/home improvement receipts- Insurance policies

Call or email The Davidson Team anytime with questions or concerns about records or security and we'll help you any way we can.

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

Wenatchee World: Today's Real Estate Articles 6/21/08

2008-06-21T11:47:00.000-07:00

Who owns the riverfront?

By Travis Hay
World staff writer
Posted June 21, 2008

"WENATCHEE - Five years ago the city of Wenatchee announced plans to make sweeping changes to its waterfront along the Columbia River. Here is a look at what has happened along the roughly two-mile stretch of riverfront between the pipeline bridge and Walla Walla Avenue since the announcement and what to possibly expect along the riverfront in the coming years:

The last major purchase of riverside property happened in 2006 when the 9.09 acres where the Greater Wenatchee Regional Events Center sits was bought for $1.6 million. Records of property sales show little waterfront land changing hands within the last 10 years. Those who have parcels of land for sale along the water include the city, two developers and a private owner.

However, there has been some action happening along the riverside. Construction on the events center is more than 60 percent complete and looks to be on track for its Sept. 17 opening. A developer is building condos and duplexes - one of which sold for $625,000.

Two major property owners - Kamkon and Ken Blodgett - have placed their land on the market, slowing a riverfront facelift. Both Blodgett and Kamkon own land next to where the city plans to build a new road called Riverside Drive.

The two developers had announced plans to place condos on the land, but now it is unknown what will happen with their combined 17.2 acres, which is on the market for $15.5 million.

Kamkon wants $12 million for 12.5 acres and Blodgett wants $3.5 million for 4.7 acres.The city is selling 3.4 acres where its public works building sits because its public works department is relocating to a building on McKittrick Street. The asking price for the riverfront land is $1.95 million, according to Mayor Dennis Johnson."

Click here http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080621/NEWS04/154332976/1001 for the entire article.

Have a wonderful weekend!

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

Wenatchee World: Today's Real Estate Articles 6/20/08

2008-06-20T10:43:00.001-07:00

Single mom finds a nest amid soaring home pricesHelp comes from local Housing Authority and federal program
By Christine Pratt
World staff writerPosted June 20, 2008

"CASHMERE - She did it. With a lot of patience and some help from state and local agencies, bus driver and part-time store clerk Christine Yarger bought a house last month.

She did it at a time when the area home market is flush with record-high sale prices following one of the hottest real estate streaks in history.Yarger, 47, and her two teenage children moved in May into their new 1940s-era cinder-block home with a cozy and updated interior.The clutter of family already fills the three-bedroom, two-bath home on its corner lot beside a huge elm tree. Dogs Ebony and Ivory - both jet black - lord happily over the front porch and side yard. Yarger began the home- buying process three years ago.

"I called the USDA (farm home loan program) and said I was just looking, just feeling the water," she said. "It would have been the only way I could buy a home and have that security."

Click here http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080620/NEWS04/561078662/0/Classifieds for the entire article.

Have a wonderful weekend!

The Davidson Team

"Start Packing Today!"

Wenatchee World: Today's Real Estate Articles 6/17/08

2008-06-18T13:07:00.000-07:00

Eastside property values jump
By K.C. Mehaffey
World staff writer
Posted June 17, 2008

"EAST WENATCHEE - The Douglas County assessor mailed new tax assessments for property in most of East Wenatchee and Rock Island last week, and some residents are not happy.
Assessor Jim Ruud said the values reflect prices of homes and property sold in the last two years, when the real estate market was hot throughout North Central Washington.

"We're getting calls, not a huge number. But people worry about the increase in value," he said. "People are interested and rightfully concerned."

He said many people don't realize that the tax statement that will follow will not go up the same amount that values went up, although taxes will increase. The taxes are based on the budgets of taxing districts, and not determined by the assessor, he said."

Click here http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080617/NEWS04/830934221/1001 for full article.

PUD land may be used for new trailhead
By Christine PrattWorld staff writer
Posted June 17, 2008

"WENATCHEE - A new trailhead that accesses Wenatchee's western foothills trail system could be built on Chelan County PUD land at the end of Castlerock Avenue.

PUD commissioners approved a proposal Monday to give the city of Wenatchee access to a portion of a 4.26-acre parcel the PUD bought in 1999 for a future substation.

The city hopes to equip the trailhead with a six-space parking lot, restroom and access road from Castlerock Avenue, Allison Williams, the city's executive services director, told commissioners.

Williams estimates the project will cost $150,000.

She said the city hopes to pay for the trailhead with $150,000 in still-unapproved grant funding. The remaining funds would come from the city's share of real estate excise taxes."

Click here http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080617/NEWS04/705225605 for full article.

Easy Checklist For Your Move

2008-06-17T09:36:00.001-07:00

It's easy for important tasks to get lost in the shuffle during a move. Here's a list to help keep you on track:

- Reserve a moving van/make a reservation with professional movers.- Sign up utilities, cable, phone et al for your new home (don't forget to cancel your current services)- Obtain referrals for doctors, dentists, and specialists if you are moving out of the area.- Collect medical and dental records for family members and pets or have them released to your new practitioners.- Make sure any necessary prescriptions have been filled.- Set up new checking and savings accounts and safe-deposit boxes.- Lightly water any plants you plan to bring to your new home.- Back up your computer files.- Empty the fuel from lawnmowers or other equipment you're bringing with you.- Have your car(s) serviced for the move.- Pack a box of necessary items you'll need when you first arrive (toothpaste/toothbrush, blankets, cleaners, etc.- Conduct a last-minute walk through, make sure everything is turned off.

We hope you find this checklist useful in your move. If we can help you in any way, visit The Davidson Team at www.WenatcheeHouses.com for buying and selling tips, MLS property searches, town and community information and more!

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team

"Start Packing Today!"

Packing Smart

2008-06-12T12:16:00.000-07:00

If you're thinking about moving or are already moving forward with your plan, here are some tips to help you out:

__ Pack logically. Start with items you don't use frequently and out-of-season items. Pack the things you need on a daily basis last because those are the first things you'll need at your new home.
__ Use strong, high-quality boxes to pack.
__ Use packing paper and bubble wrap for breakables.
__ Don't pack flammable or explosive items (gasoline, fireworks, aerosol cans, paints, liquid bleach, etc.).
__ Secure boxes with packing tape and label them clearly with markers or stickers.
__ Carry items such as important documents, family photographs and jewelry with you for security.

We hope this helps you when it's time to move.

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

Smart Pricing Gets You The Best Offer

2008-06-11T13:30:00.001-07:00

Homebuyers are more savvy than ever. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) cites that over 80% of them begin their home search on the internet, taking advantage of all the information at our fingertips. With all the information available, smart pricing has never been more important than it is now. Before you price your home too high, remember that many buyers don't even look at a property that seems overpriced. Smart pricing keeps your home from being on the market too long. Most buyers ask how long a property has been on the market, and if it has been too many months they wonder what's wrong with it. This leads to sellers caving in on the price, often taking a lower offer than they would have if it had been priced correctly from the start. Smart-priced homes attract the right buyers (i.e. in that price range), leading to a happy seller who gets the price they're asking for and a happy buyer who feels they got a good deal.

Visit The Davidson Team at www.WenatcheeHouses.com for buying and selling tips, MLS property searches, town and community information and more!

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

Space Is Perception

2008-06-04T12:09:00.001-07:00

Homebuyers, like anyone else, want the most for their money. A big house can be perceived as less spacious and accommodating than a smaller house if the floor plan isn't open enough. Use this "Space Perception" checklist to open up your home and improve sight appeal:

* Keep minimal furniture in the rooms (store any furniture you can temporarily do without)
* Use bright or soft light colors. They reflect light better and open up the room.
* Use mirrors to make rooms appear larger and to reflect attractive objects, like a window with a view or a pretty painting.
* Get rid of clutter. Nothing can make a room seem smaller like clutter can. Store away decorative items, figurines, clear off bathroom and kitchen countertops, pick up magazines and newspapers.

A spacious home can get a higher price, especially if it is well maintained. Visit http://www.wenatcheehouses.com/buyersandsellers.php for additional buying and selling tips, MLS property searches, town and community information and more!

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

Blaine's Recipe of the Week - 6/3/08

2008-06-03T19:29:00.001-07:00

Green Goddess Dressing

This is my grandmother's famous Green Goddess dressing with some fun additions of my own:

1 cup mayo1/2 cup sour cream3 TBSP white wine vinegar3 TBSP tarragon3 TBSP green onions or chives1/2 cup basil2 cloves garlic1 TSPN parsley4 TBSP chopped anchovy filet or paste (and left over anchovy filet oil)1 lemon juicedSalt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Enjoy with a nice head of romaine or watercress, and any fixings you enjoy in your salad..I love soft shell crab, red onion and a hard boiled egg. Garnish with lemon wedges.

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

First Impressions

2008-05-30T14:56:00.000-07:00

First impressions are vital in determining how much a buyer is willing to offer for your home. If they first see a broken gutter or peeling paint, they will cast a wary eye over the rest of your home and may not even give you an offer. Take a few minutes to look at your home like a buyer would. What do you see? Here is a First Impression Checklist to help you in the sale of your home:

- Mow your grass, trim the bushes and shrubs

- Clean and/or paint your front porch area

- Secure any handrailings

- Wash and shine your windows

- Put away toys and clutter, outside and inside

- Flowers and plants inside always make a nice impression

- Repair/replace the roof, gutters, and downspouts if needed

Being objective with your own home is sometimes difficult because of your personal attachment. Call me or email The Davidson Team if you have any questions or want a second opinion. Also, you can find other helpful buying and selling information here http://www.wenatcheehouses.com/buyersandsellers.php.

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team

"Start Packing Today"

Clean Selling

2008-05-28T16:45:00.001-07:00

There's nothing like a good thorough cleaning to make your house show well and get top dollar when you're ready to sell. Use these tips to put your best foot forward:

Clean and shiny kitchens and bathrooms are a MUST!
Steam clean your carpets.
Organize your closets, clearing out clutter.
Remove all clutter and store excess furniture to make your home look bigger.
Wash windows and treatments.
Wash walls and touch up the paint.

A shiny and fresh smelling home is inviting and makes prospective buyers feel good about your home. The better they feel, the better your offers will be!

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

Easy checklist for your move

2008-05-27T11:09:00.001-07:00

It's easy for important tasks to get lost in the shuffle during a move. Here's a list to help keep you on track:

- Reserve a moving van/make a reservation with professional movers.
- Sign up utilities, cable, phone et al for your new home (don't forget to cancel your current services)
- Obtain referrals for doctors, dentists, and specialists if you are moving out of the area.
- Collect medical and dental records for family members and pets or have them released to your new practitioners.
- Make sure any necessary prescriptions have been filled.
- Set up new checking and savings accounts and safe-deposit boxes.
- Lightly water any plants you plan to bring to your new home.
- Back up your computer files.
- Empty the fuel from lawnmowers or other equipment you're bringing with you.
- Have your car(s) serviced for the move.
- Pack a box of necessary items you'll need when you first arrive (toothpaste/toothbrush, blankets, cleaners, etc.
- Conduct a last-minute walk through, make sure everything is turned off.

We hope you find this checklist useful in your move. If we can help you in any way, visit The Davidson Team at www.WenatcheeHouses.com for buying and selling tips, MLS property searches, town and community information and more!

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

Wenatchee World: Today's Real Estate Articles 5/24/08

2008-05-24T14:57:00.001-07:00

Wenatchee home prices 3rd strongest in the nationBy Christine PrattWorld staff writer Posted May 24, 2008

"WENATCHEE - Home prices here were the third strongest in the nation through March, even as prices elsewhere in the country dipped sharply, a new federal report shows.

Home prices in Wenatchee increased just over 8 percent in the 12-month period that ended in March, according to the quarterly housing price index, released Thursday by the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight.

Wenatchee ranked third to the Houma, Bayou Cane and Thibodaux areas of Louisiana, with 11.2-percent appreciation, and Grand Junction, Colo., with 9-percent appreciation, the index shows.

Yakima was the only other Washington metro area that made the list of top 20 strongest markets. It placed 17th with a year-over-year appreciation of almost 5.7 percent.

The local rankings come as home prices nationwide dropped an average of 3.1 percent over the last 12 months ending in March - the largest decline in the index's 17-year history, according to a news release."

Click below to view the entire article.

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080524/NEWS04/630617522/1001

Eliminate Undue Stress

2008-05-21T13:04:00.001-07:00

It is completely normal to be nervous and even second-guess your decision when you're moving. It's an emotional time and a major commitment. Keep these things in mind during the process and your stress level should be manageable:

* Everyone gets nervous or tentative during a move. It's a big commitment.
* Get pre-approved for a loan. It may take 30 to 45 days to obtain financing, and this will shorten the time frame.
* Use The Davidson Team as a resource. Part of our job is to make the entire process hastle free, answer questions and give you the information you need to be confident with your decision. We'll get you neighborhood information, information on school districts, where the closest bank is, etc....just ask us.
* Keep cash aside for emergencies and unexpected expenses during and right after the move.
* Have fun! Ask some friends to help you with some of your preparations, order some pizzas and make it a good time.
* Make sure to have time where you're NOT thinking about the move. You have to get away from it sometimes.
* Arrange to have phone and utilities disconnected at your old house and connected in your new home the day you move in.

When you're ready to buy, call us. We'll help the process go smoothly so you can concentrate on packing and preparing for your new home and neighborhood. Visit The Davidson Team at www.WenatcheeHouses.com for buying and selling tips, MLS property searches, town and community information and more.

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

Wenatchee World: Today's Real Estate Articles 5/19/08

2008-05-20T09:21:00.001-07:00

Apartment today, condo tomorrowArea condo conversions a sign of housing crunchBy Christine PrattWorld staff writerPosted May 19, 2008

"WENATCHEE - The region's influx of retiring baby boomers and a lack of affordable housing for first-time buyers have sparked local entrepreneurs to convert old apartment buildings into condo units.

Statistics that would document the rate of conversion aren't readily available. But real estate agents say they've noticed a trend. "What instigates it is the lack of affordable housing and the fact that our lifestyles are kind of wanting to have more free time and less large yards to take care of," said local agent Jaimie Wallace. "This is a newer thing, but it's been popular in the Seattle area."

Click below for the entire article.

http://wenatcheeworld.com/article/20080519/BIZ/443929855

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

Seattle Times Article: 5/14/08

2008-05-19T14:11:00.000-07:00

Slide in existing-home sales in state steepest in Central Puget Sound area

By Elizabeth Rhodes
Seattle Times business reporter

"Washington's home sales are down, and the dip is more pronounced in the Central Puget Sound region, which has the lion's share of the state's housing transactions.

Compared with the same period a year ago, sales of existing homes were off more than a third in King, Snohomish and Pierce counties, the Washington Center for Real Estate Research reported Tuesday. The research does not include new homes.

The trend was generally repeated in prices, with the median price of resale homes dropping more in Central Puget Sound - except for King County - than in the state as a whole, the research center at Washington State University, found.

In the first three months of this year, existing home sales dropped 31.8 percent in King County, 35.6 percent in Pierce, and 34.8 percent in Snohomish County, compared with a year earlier. The statewide average was 29.7 percent."

Click below for entire article and information and Chelan and Douglas counties.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2004412172_realestate14.html

New Home Vs. Existing Home

2008-05-16T10:57:00.000-07:00

Possibly the first decision you make as a home buyer is whether you want a brand new home or an existing home. Here are some points to consider with each:

New home
- Customizable - you can choose floors, colors, various upgrades.
- Usually more energy-efficient than older homes.
- "Modern" floor plans including more bathrooms, larger closets, larger family room, etc.
- Warranty from the home builder. Resale home:
- Location, location, location.

Existing home
- Usually closer to metro areas.
- Comfort and sense of community in an established neighborhood.
- Opportunity to remodel and make the home unique.
- Existing features (landscaping, etc.)

Visit The Davidson Team at www.WenatcheeHouses.com for buying and selling tips, MLS property searches, town and community information and more!

The Davidson Team

"Start Packing Today!"

Wenatchee World: Today's Real Estate Articles 5/15/08

2008-05-15T12:48:00.000-07:00

Housing group gets $250,000 from city
By Christine Pratt
World staff writer
Posted May 14, 2008

"WENATCHEE - The city will contribute $250,000 Thursday to a grassroots organization formed last year to create affordable housing for low-income families.

Wenatchee Mayor Dennis Johnson said that he'll deliver the check tomorrow to the group PATH - Preserving Affordability Trust for Housing.

"This really has a good basis conceptually," Johnson said of PATH. "It takes a long time for a group to start generating adequate funding. We felt this would give them good start."

PATH will use the money to help low-income buyers afford their first homes by separating the cost of the house from the land underneath it, said Marty Stierlen, spokeswoman for the Columbia Valley Housing Association, which has partnered with PATH.

The buyer must qualify for a bank loan to finance the house only. PATH will use the donated funds to buy the land. Savings to the buyer could be as much as $40,000 to $50,000, Stierlen said."

Click below for the entire article!

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080514/NEWS04/778481521/0/FRONTPAGE

Developer selling off trailer park property
Kamkon bought land for $2.2 million in 2006, now asking for $12 million
By Travis Hay
World staff writer
Posted May 15, 2008

WENATCHEE - The owner of the Ninth Street Trailer Park, land that's a key part of Wenatchee's riverfront makeover, appears to be selling the property.
The land was set to be developed into condominiums as part of the city's riverfront development plan. Wenatchee Mayor Dennis Johnson said he found out Monday that the property was up for sale for $12 million.

"I was definitely taken by surprise when I found out," Johnson said Wednesday afternoon. "It was my belief all along that the area was ready for development ... I expected with the market being the way it is that it might be developed in phases now instead of all at once, but I didn't expect the project to be stopped altogether."

Kamkon Development bought the 12.5 acres for roughly $2.2 million in 2006, according to Chelan County Assessor's Office records. The sale of the land is being handled by Century Pacific, a Seattle-based company, according to Century Pacific's Web site. The Web site states the asking price for the land is $12 million."

Click below for the entire article?

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080515/NEWS04/22121896/1001

Don't forget these things...

2008-05-14T11:06:00.001-07:00

When we begin looking for a home, we often forget issues outside the home that may impact our lifestyle. Here are some things to keep in mind:

* Is there a playground, pool or park nearby?* Are there any fees involved?* How close is the home to a hospital, police or fire department?* How big is the garage or driveway?* Is there sufficient parking for guests when you entertain?* Commute times, traffic jams, gas prices and public transportation access.* Proximity to schools

No home is perfect. Just be realistic and decide what's important to you. While you may have to compromise on some items, there are a lot of homes out there and you'll find a home that is a nice fit and will make you happy. Also, make sure you choose a home that you can reasonably maintain, that fits your lifestyle and that you want to keep for a while.

When you're ready to buy, The Davidson Team will be happy to help you in any way! Visit www.WenatcheeHouses.com buying and selling tips, MLS property searches, town and community information.

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

When you're thinking about making a move...

2008-05-13T11:10:00.001-07:00

When you're thinking about making a move, consider:

* How much money you want to spend.
* What type of home you would like.
* Where you would like to live.
* When you want to move.
* How much you qualify for and what financing works best.

Getting pre-qualified by a lender is a good idea in the beginning stage. This will help you determine your choices of homes and neighborhoods and keep your expectations realistic. When you start your search, get pre-approved for a loan as soon as possible. This will involve a credit check and employment verification, and once this is done all that needs to be done is for the lender to appraise the home. Why is pre-approval so important? Pre-approval strengthens your position. A seller typically chooses an offer that is pre-approved over someone whose financial picture is still in question.

If you or someone you know is looking to buy or has a real estate need or question, visit our website at www.WenatcheeHouses.com for buying and selling tips, MLS property searches, town and community information and more!

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

Blaine's Recipe of the Week - 5/9/08

2008-05-09T10:05:00.000-07:00

Beef-and-Lamb Burger with Irish Porter Cheddar and Cornichon-Garlic Remoulade(4 Servings)

4 cornichons, coarsely chopped3 tablespoons parsley, coarsely chopped2 garlic clove½ cup mayo1 ¼ tablespoon whole grain mustard¾ pound ground beef (no leaner than 80%)½ pound ground lamb4 Kaiser buns4 think slices of Irish Porter cheddarTomato slices, onion and cucumber for garnishOlive oilKosher salt & pepper

1. Light grill.2. Chop cornichons, parsley and garlic in processor. Then blend in mayo and mustard.3. In large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with the ground lamb and season generously with salt and pepper. For mixture into 4 1-inch-thick patties and make slightly indentation in center of each with thumb.4. Very lightly brush both sides of Kaiser buns with olive oil and toast inside on grill for roughly 1 minute. Flip and toast other side for 30 seconds. Transfer to plates and spread remoulade on bottom half of buns.5. Grill the burgers over high heat until lightly charred on each side (roughly 4 minutes for medium). Transfer burgers to buns and let rest 5 minutes. Top burger with tomatoes, onions and cucumbers.

Serve and enjoy!

How much is your down payment?

2008-05-07T13:21:00.001-07:00

Perhaps the most challenging part of buying a home is coming up with the down payment, unless you have built up equity in your current home. How much home you can afford depends on the amount of your down payment and how much you have been pre-approved to borrow. Funds for a down payment can come from:

* Savings
* Investments such as stocks and bonds
* Gifts from relatives
* Company bonuses
* Equity in your current home
* Equity in other assets
* Life insurance policies

How much is your current home worth? The Davidson Team is happy to provide you with a market valuation so you will know exactly what it's worth and exactly how much equity you have for a down payment on your next home. Click here http://www.wenatcheehouses.com/home_worth.php for our complimentary Over-the-Net home valuation. Or, call us today to schedule an thorough, in-home valution today!

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

Crime rate dips in Chelan, Douglas counties

2008-05-06T10:22:00.001-07:00

By Jaime Adame, World staff writerPosted May 05, 2008

"WENATCHEE - The crime rate has dipped to the lowest point this decade throughout Chelan and Douglas counties, according to 2007 data released today by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs .

The data includes information about so-called index crimes reported to local police agencies, which then report the data to the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs.

Index crimes include murder, rape, robbery and aggravated assault in the violent crime category.

Arson, burglary, larceny and motor vehicle theft are included as property crimes."Click below for the entire story!

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080505/NEWS04/67052898/1001

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team

"Start Packing Today!"

Making An Offer

2008-05-05T10:25:00.001-07:00

When you find the right home and make an offer, the seller has 3 options:

1. Accept it
2. Reject it (if it doesn't meet listing specs)
3. Counter it with a different price and terms

The Davidson Team can help you negotiate so you get the right home at a price you're happy with. In a market with strong demand, a seller may not counter an offer but merely choose the highest offer. When making an offer, keep these things in mind:

1. Get pre-approved, not just pre qualified
2. Keep contingencies to a minimum (only necessary ones like inspection, financing, etc.)
3. Have a substantial earnest money deposit, to show the seller you're serious.

We're happy to help you with any questions you might have about the buying process and help you find your new home. Visit The Davidson Team at www.WenatcheeHouses.com for buying and selling tips, MLS property searches, town and community information and much more!

Warm regards,

Blaine & Erin Davidson
"Start Packing Today!"

Apple Blossom Events: Friday

2008-05-02T10:45:00.000-07:00

Friday's events

Wenatchee Valley Mall Golf Tournament: 8 a.m., Highlander Golf Club
Tony Valentine Band: Noon, Memorial Park
Janie & Joe: 1:30 p.m., Memorial Park
Super Tonic: 3 p.m., Memorial Park
Darnell Scott & Desert Blues: 4:30 p.m., Memorial Park
Michael Carlos Band: 6 p.m., Memorial Park
Classy Chassis Parade: 6:30 p.m., Eastmont County Park
"Jesus Christ Superstar": 7:30 p.m., Performing Arts Center of Wenatchee
Fathappy: 8 p.m., Memorial Park
Appleland Promenaders Square Dance: 8 p.m., Vale Elementary School, Cashmere

Is a 1031 Exchange Right for You?

2008-04-30T11:37:00.000-07:00

Section 1031 of the IRS Code offers real estate investors a valuable tool to defer or avoid capital gains tax on real estate transactions along with the opportunity to build wealth and save taxes. A 1031 exchange lets you dispose of investment property, use all of your equity to acquire replacement investment property and defer the capital gains tax that would ordinarily be paid.

1031 exchanges are primarily designed for people interested in investment properties, not for typical home sellers and buyers looking to purchase a residence. Replacement property acquired in an exchange must be of "like-kind" or similar to the property being sold. The following are examples of properties that could be eligible for a 1031 exchange:

Single Family Rental
Multi-Family Rentals
Farms/Ranches
Raw Land
Retail Offices
Motels/Hotels
Golf Course
Industrial
Leases of 30 years or more

Examples of properties that are NOT eligible for a 1031 exchange are primary residences and real estate in foreign countries. If you would like to explore how a 1031 exchange could work for you, we'd be happy to give you more information. Please feel free to contact us by phone or email.

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

Making the Most of the Space in Your Home

2008-04-28T09:23:00.001-07:00

Friends come by to visit you, not your house. Your home can be a flexible extension and reflection of your lifestyle and personality, not a fixed collection of rooms that can only be used for their originally-intended purpose.

If space is limited, consider making some rooms do double duty. Here are some tips for thinking differently and making the most of the space in your home:

* If you don't put on formal dinner parties, consider turning an unused dining room into a home office. When friends come over for an meal, cushions around a coffee table in front of the fireplace can become an informal ‘dining room.'

* Repurpose furniture into special ‘rooms.' A drop-front secretary with shelves, drawers and a work surface can turn your living room into a craft center by day but can be closed up for entertaining in the evening.

* Many people regard their bedroom as a sanctuary and retreat. Consider adding built-in or freestanding shelves and an easy chair with a floor lamp to turn one corner of your bedroom into a quiet ‘library.'

Please let us know by phone or email if we can provide additional ideas for making the most of the space in your home. If you are considering making a move to a larger space, we can help you find a home that suits your lifestyle.

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team
"Start Packing Today!"

Wenatchee World: Today's Real Estate Articles 4/27/08

2008-04-27T09:48:00.000-07:00

Developer selling off riverfront land

By Travis Hay
World staff writer
Posted April 25, 2008

"WENATCHEE - One of the major players in the city's multi-million- dollar riverfront makeover wants to sell 4.7 acres that had been earmarked for condominiums.

Malaga developer Ken Blodgett put his land on Piere Street between Fifth and Ninth streets on the market about a month ago. The pricetag: $3.5 million, according to Ron Stephenson with Windermere Real Estate.

Wednesday morning Wenatchee Mayor Dennis Johnson said Blodgett's land is for sale.
Stephenson, who is handling the sale of the property, said there has been interest in the property."

Click below for the entire article:

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080425/NEWS04/863140739/1005/SPORTS

The Davidson Team Moves To Premier One Properties!!!

2008-04-25T12:44:00.001-07:00

We are very excited to announce that our real estate license will now hang at North Central Washington's Premier brokerage...Premier One Properties!

We look forward to meeting our new colleagues and making new friends, sharing our new office with clients, and continuing to serve the real estate needs of North Central Washington with integrity, professionalism and knowledge.

Warm regards,

The Davidson Team - Blaine & Erin Davidson

Premier One Properties

Phone: 509-293-2214

E-mail: info@WenatcheeHouses.com

Website: http://www.WenatcheeHouses.com

"Start Packing Today!"

2007 Realtor Rookie of the Year - Association of Realtors NCW

Affordable Housing Symposium Tonight

2008-04-24T11:34:00.000-07:00

Join city officials, community members and housing industry professionals tonight at the Wenatchee Convention Center from 7-8:30PM for your first look at an independant consulting firm's recommendations for making housing more afforable for low to middle income residents in North Central Washington.

It's that time of year: Apple Blossom!

2008-04-23T13:45:00.001-07:00

The excitement is brewing...chairs have been lining the streets for weeks saving spots for the parades, festival discussion comes up in every conversation, the food fair and carnival attractions have started setting up this week...the community is buzzing!

For all your Apple Blossom Festival information, schedule, photos and much more, visit the official website below:

http://www.appleblossom.org

Have a fun Apple Blossom!

The Davidson Team

4 Tips for Taking Care of Granite, Marble, Tile & Grout

2008-04-22T12:35:00.000-07:00

Stone countertops and ceramic tile have become quite popular over the past several years. Their attractive good looks add an upscale touch as well as resale value. But stone and tile aren’t as durable as you might think.

If not cared for properly, replacing or resurfacing can be an expensive proposition. Here are 4 tips to help keep your stone and tile surfaces looking their best while protecting your investment:

1. Keep stone and tile surfaces clean. Use warm soapy water and rinse well with clean water. Avoid cleaning stone surfaces with cleaners that contain bleach which can compromise sealants used to protect the surface.

2. Reapply a surface sealant every six months. Sealants help keep spills and food from being absorbed into the surface and causing stains. Look for professional-grade stone and tile cleaners and sealants at specialty stores or large hardware stores. They’re easy to use and apply.

3. Wipe up acidic spills immediately. Foods or liquids containing acids can quickly etch any stone or tile surface, creating rough spots that can only be removed by having the surface professionally resurfaced and polished. Tomatoes, citrus fruits, wine, and vinegar can quickly ruin your gleaming surface.

4. Clean tile grout regularly with a laundry bleach pen. Use an old toothbrush for stubborn stains. Chipped or broken areas can be cleaned out using a grout removal tool. New grout is easy to apply. Just ask how at your local hardware or tile store.

Please call or email if we can provide names of nearby specialty stores specializing in tile and stone. We always have time to help you, your family and friends with your real estate needs.

Wenatchee World: Today's Real Estate Articles 4/16/08

2008-04-16T09:16:00.000-07:00

NCW not seeing big slowdowns
Experts say local economic buffers will keep recession at bay
By Christine Pratt
World staff writer
Posted April 15, 2008

"WENATCHEE - Who says a recession is going on?

An influx of newcomers and vigorous local employment are keeping North Central Washington's economy strong, despite the impending doom reported nationwide.It may cool a bit, local experts say, but it's not likely to crash. "Wenatchee has, for the most part, avoided the booms and busts, and that's probably the situation we'll be in this time, also," said Ken Martin, president of Cashmere Valley Bank, recently.Wenatchee's position as the region's retail and medical hub helps smooth out the peaks and valleys of the economic cycle, Martin said."

Click below for the whole story!

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080415/NEWS04/552972449/1002

NCW shines as U.S. declines
Posted April 15, 2008
Economic growth

"Nationwide: The economy is shriveling. Recession is looming. Gross Domestic Product grew by a feeble 0.6 percent from October to December 2007. Analysts expect equally anemic growth from January to March of this year. Figures will be released later this month.North Central Washington: Agriculture, the motor of the NCW economy, is running strong. Wheat prices are at historic highs. Tree fruit prices are strong. This year's cherry and apple crops could set records for volume. Fruit exports are holding steady at about 30 percent of the region's harvest and could be helped by the falling dollar. New world markets are opening."

Click below for the entire article!

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080415/NEWS04/588291467

City may have set precedent for development
Builder allowed to cut landscape buffer in half
By Travis HayWorld staff writer
Posted April 15, 2008

"WENATCHEE - A City Council decision could impact the looks of the waterfront as the construction of condominiums continues adjacent to Walla Walla Point Park

In a unanimous decision, council members Thursday upheld a city Planning Commission recommendation that allowed condo developer Randy Zielinski a 10-foot landscape buffer in an area where the city zoning code mandates at least a 20-foot buffer, because his development is adjacent to a park. The Planning Commission recommended allowing the 10-foot encroachment into the required 20-foot buffer in February.

The Chelan County PUD appealed the ruling and argued against the commission's recommendation at the City Council meeting."

Click below for the entire article!

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080415/NEWS04/18653626

Congratulations Ridge to River Winners!

2008-04-15T08:42:00.000-07:00

2008's Ridge to River (http://www.r2r.org/) Ironman/women champs are:

Torin Koos, Leavenworth: This is Torin's third win in a row!

Cora Sturzl, Malaga: Cora's first win.

Click below for more extensive final results.

http://www.r2r.org/Ridge%20_to%20River%20Final%20Results.pdf

Congratulations!

Event of the Week: The Velveteen Rabbit

2008-04-11T08:52:00.001-07:00

For those of you who have kids or are a kid at heart, don't miss the Enchantment Theatre Co's adaptation of The Velveteen Rabbit tomorrow (Saturday, April 12th) at the Performing Arts Center of Wenatchee. Click below for full details:

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080409/ARTS01/209336544/1001

How to Make the Most of Your Home Office

2008-04-09T11:11:00.000-07:00

More and more people are working from home. From small-business owners to corporate telecommuters, more and more people are dedicating areas within their homes as full-time home offices. Here are some tips to help you design and equip an office in your home, no matter how small it might be:

* Size isn’t everything. Perfectly functional offices can be built into unused walk-in closets or even armoires or other furniture. While not everyone needs a large office in which to meet people or hold meetings, every office needs to have room for the basic tools necessary to running a business or doing a job.

* Organization is the key. Make the most of the space you have by using storage boxes or baskets of a uniform size to store papers, catalogs, magazines and supplies. By being the same size, they’ll better fit on shelves or on your desk with a minimum of wasted space.

* Make the most of today’s technology. A modern laptop has as much computing power as last year’s desktop tower. Thin LCD monitors take up much less space than bulky CRT tube monitors. Wi-Fi lets you connect to the Internet with a minimum of wiring. And VOIP telephones use your Internet connection to communicate at a fixed price every month with no long-distance charges.

* Treat your body right. Get an ergonomic chair and adjust it so your elbows are bent at a 90º angle when typing and be sure you’re not looking down at your monitor. Use high intensity task lighting to direct light where you need it.

Please let us know by phone or email if we can provide additional tips for getting the most out of your home office or provide you with any other real estate related information.

Wenatchee gets first look at consultant's recommendations for affordable housing

2008-04-04T12:36:00.001-07:00

An interesting article in today's Wenatchee World bids the question, "How badly does this city need more affordable housing and what can be done about it?"

Wenatchee gets first look at consultant's recommendations for affordable housing City will use findings and community input to pursue firm's suggestions
By Christine Pratt
World staff writer Posted April 04, 2008

"WENATCHEE - How badly does this city need more affordable housing and what can be done about it?

Community members, housing industry pros and city officials will get their first look April 24 at an independent consulting firm's recommendations to make it easier for low- to middle-income residents to buy homes.

The firm, California-based David Paul Rosen, will present its findings at the city-hosted Affordable Housing Symposium at the Wenatchee Convention Center. Officials from Rosen will moderate the symposium.

The city is paying Rosen $24,500 to study the local need for affordable housing and recommend how the city can fulfill the need, Monica Libbey, the city's housing and community planner said."We have a genuine intent of increasing the supply of housing that's affordable for all," Libbey said by phone Thursday."

Click below for the entire article!

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080404/NEWS04/257552116/1001

Blaine's Recipe of the Week - 4/2/08

2008-04-02T11:38:00.001-07:00

BBQ Garlic Anise Leg of Lamb

1 leg of lamb
6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
4 tablespoons ground anise seed
3 tablespoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons Grand Marnier
4 tablespoons kosher salt
4 tablespoons freshly ground pepper

Two hours before cooking, combine all ingredients in bowl to make paste and rub paste over lamb. Set on countertop to marinate at room temperature.

Grill lamb on low indirect heat until nice crust appears. If meat is not medium rare (130 degrees)—depending on size of lamb—transfer to over at 300 and drizzle additional olive oil over lamb. Continue roasting until medium rare (130 degrees). Let stand for 10 minutes and then carve.

Design Your Closets for Maximum Utility

2008-04-01T10:17:00.000-07:00

Not so long ago, closets were simply a small room with a wooden dowel and shelf. Today, closets can be so much more. A well-designed closet can help you organize your home. Here are some tips to help you make the most of the closets in your home:

* Use modern adjustable shelving systems which let you custom-design your closet for your individual needs. Easily installed, these modular systems are available at home centers or storage specialty shops. Many shops will help you to custom design a system for your particular closet and exact needs.

* Besides storing clothes, closets can also be used to organize materials for ironing, gift wrapping, sewing or even office machines and supplies.

* Extra-long shelf brackets can be used to build a work surface into your closet that can be used for folding clothes, crafts, wrapping or other projects.

* If you’re remodeling or redecorating, consider moving an unused bureau into a closet to add additional drawer space.

Please let us know by phone or email if we can provide names of nearby stores specializing in closet design and organizing or help you with any of your real estate needs.

Local Wisdom - 3/27/08

2008-03-27T10:34:00.000-07:00

If you're not familiar with Local Wisdom, it is a weekly Wenatchee World column which shares helpful information; particularly for the North Central Washington resident. Today's column--Five things to know about planting the right tree in the right location--provides information that homeowners should consider when planting trees.

Local wisdom - Five things to know about planting the right tree in the right location
By Dee Riggs
World staff writer
Posted March 27, 2008

"It's not a pretty sight. Here and there, along streets and alleys, formerly beautiful trees sprout grotesque shapes at their crowns.

Most times, they're directly under utility lines. They got their unsightly look because tree-trimming crews had to cut off their tops to keep branches from interfering with utility service.

Bill Sanborn is the Chelan County PUD's forestry program manager. Much of his job is devoted to keeping trees from growing into utility lines. In addition to working with the tree-trimming company under contract with the PUD, he educates the public about planting the right tree in the right location.

If that's done, trees of all sizes can grow to their mature height and natural shape. Specifically, shorter-growing trees will be planted under utility lines, and taller-growing trees can achieve their natural mature height and shape elsewhere in the yard."

Click below to read the full article!

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080327/HOM/333574990

Blaine's Recipe of the Week - 3/26/08

2008-03-26T09:58:00.001-07:00

Pot Roasted Lamb Shanks with Cannelini Beans
4 servings

1 ½ cups dried cannelloni beans, soaked overnight and drained
1 bay leaf
4 meaty lamb shanks
Salt and fresh ground pepper
8 large garlic cloves with skin on
6 cups chicken stock (preferably homemade)
2 teaspoon sherry vinegar
2 teaspoon fresh chopped tyme

In large saucepan, cover beans and the bay leaf with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil. Simmer over low heat until the beans are tender; about 2 hours. Drain the beans and discard bay leaf.

Meanwhile, preheat oven to 300. Heat an enameled cast-iron casserole that’s large enough to hold the lamb shanks in a single layer. Season shanks with salt and pepper, and cook over moderate heat to lightly brown; turning a few times (15 minutes or so). Nestle the garlic cloves among the shanks. Cover and cook in the over for 1 hour and 45 minutes, turning three times, until shanks are very tender.

Reduce the oven temperature to 200. Transfer the shanks to a small roasting pan, and add the garlic cloves to a small bowl. Cover the shanks with foil and keep warm in oven. Add the chicken stock to the casserole and set the casserole over a burner. Boil over high heat until the juices have reduced to 4 cups; roughly 16-20 minutes.

Peel the garlic cloves and add the sherry. With a fork, mash to a paste. Add the garlic paste to the juices in the casserole. Poor 4 cups into a bowl and baste shanks several times before serving. Stir in beans and thyme to remaining 4 cups, simmer over low heat for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Place lamb shanks and beans on plate, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with a Merlot dominated red Bordeaux. Enjoy!

Don’t Forget Your Pets In An Emergency

2008-03-24T12:57:00.001-07:00

Images from the aftermath of hurricane Katrina of pets being taken from their owners during evacuation are disturbing and heartbreaking. While any emergency you may encounter is not as likely to be as dire as a hurricane, it still makes good sense to include your pets in your own household emergency plan. Here are some tips:

* If staying in a hotel or motel is a possibility, contact them and find out what their policies are for guests with pets during an emergency.

* Contact local veterinarians and boarding kennels to find out which ones offer animals shelter during an emergency.

* When preparing your own household emergency kit, keep your pets in mind. Make sure to include food, water, bowls, leashes and collars, medications and a recent picture of your pets in case they become lost.

* Understand that American Red Cross disaster shelters do not accept pets unless they are service animals assisting people with disabilities.

* Contact your local humane society to see what assistance they might provide in sheltering and caring for animals during an emergency.

Please let us know by phone or email if we can provide additional tips for dealing with emergencies.

Property values rise by nearly $1 billion in Chelan County

2008-03-21T08:37:00.001-07:00

An interesting article from today's Wenatchee World. Helpful or spun stats?Property values rise by nearly $1 billion in Chelan CountyBy Michelle McNielWorld staff writer Posted March 20, 2008

"WENATCHEE - The combined value of all real property in Chelan County jumped by nearly $1 billion last year, fueled largely by one of the hottest home real estate markets in the country.

The increase was the largest percentage jump in values in a single year since 1974, when the county began assessing property at 100 percent of its value rather than 50 percent for the purpose of collecting more taxes.

"Property values have gone through the roof," said county Assessor Russ Griffith, now in his 18th year at the post."

Click below for the entire story!

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080320/NEWS04/353337220

Blaine's Recipe of the Week - 3/19/08

2008-03-19T11:03:00.000-07:00

Mango-Chili Grilled Shrimp (4 Servings)

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 small minced shallot
1 minced garlic clove
1 minced red Thai chili
1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
1 peeled mango cut into ¼ inch dice
2 pounds large shrimp, shelled and deveined
1 cup baby arugula
Kosher salt
Freshly ground pepper

1. Stir together the three tablespoons of olive oil with the vinegar, shallot, garlic, chile, ginger and cilantro. Fold in the mango and season with salt.

2. Drizle the shrimp with oil, toss to coat and season with salt and pepper. Grill shimp on high, turning once, untile lightly charred and just cooked through, about 4 minutes.

3. Transfer the shrimp to plates and top with mango salsa. Add arugula to place, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Enjoy!

Gardens that Don’t Require a Lot of Space, Water or Time

2008-03-18T13:24:00.000-07:00

Nothing makes a home quite as appealing as attractive plants. People lacking a green thumb or the time or space necessary to devote to a garden might consider adding window boxes or small raised beds to add a touch of color. Here are some ideas to get you started:

* Window boxes are the easiest to install, plant, and maintain. Wrought iron grids called ‘hayracks' are available in many stores. They come in a variety of widths and attach easily to your window trim. Their liner helps retain soil and water, keeping your plants moist and healthy.
* Raised beds are best when made from pressure-treated dimensional lumber or artificial wood products like Trex to minimize rotting over time. Cut the lumber into the dimensions you want then nail or screw them together to form a frame. Place the frame where you want it, making sure it's level. Then add a layer of fine gravel at the bottom for drainage followed by topsoil, and finally an organic topdressing. This works with large pots as well.

* For south-facing window boxes and beds, plant sun-loving perennials or herbs. For north and east facing locations, choose shade plants like ivy, hostas, begonias, hydrangeas, geraniums or bleeding hearts. For western exposures, sun-loving, drought-tolerant plants are best. Choose vegetables in the spring and summer and in late fall and winter, plant decorative cabbage (kale) or dwarf boxwoods.

* Whatever you plant, make sure to water only enough to keep plants from wilting in the sun. Remember, too much water can be as bad as not enough.

Please call or email us if you'd like us to recommend a local nursery or help you with any of your real estate needs.

Is it really greener here?

2008-03-16T10:17:00.001-07:00

Here's an interesting article on the Wenatchee Valley and how "green" it is in the environmental sense.

Is it really greener here?
By Michelle McNiel World staff wri.ter
Posted March 15, 2008

"It's been nearly a year since Wenatchee found itself in a surprising national spotlight, being named the fifth-greenest city in America.

City leaders reveled in the honor. Economic development proponents used it to market the area to potential new businesses. And real estate agents hyped it up to encourage people to move to the Wenatchee Valley.

But others thought the national ranking was undeserved and even laughable."

Click below for the full story!

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080315/NEWS04/661595410

How to Hire and Work with a Contractor – Part 2

2008-03-10T13:35:00.001-07:00

Most people eventually need to hire and work with a contractor to perform maintenance, painting, remodeling, landscaping or other project. Here are some tips on how to best work with the contractor you’ve chosen and make sure you’re treated fairly during the process.

* Like marriage, communication is the key to a successful relationship with your contractor. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the project, just ask.

* Meet regularly with your contractor during the project and review his progress. Depending on how extensive the project is you might meet weekly or even daily.

* Nobody likes surprises, especially when they cost money. If your contractor has encountered anything unexpected once he’s started your project or if you’ve asked for anything extra that was not covered in the original estimate, ask for a supplemental written estimate.

* When the project is complete, meet with the contractor and perform a ‘walk through’. Items not up to your satisfaction are referred to as a ‘punch list’ and should be repaired or redone by the contractor before the project is complete.

* Once you’re satisfied with everything, write a check for the final payment. Never make a final payment before the project is completed to your satisfaction.

* If you’re pleased with the way your project turned out and with the contractor you chose, ask for some business cards that you can give to friends or neighbors who may be interested in a similar project.

Please let us know by phone or email if we can provide recommendations for contractors or answer any real estate related questions.

How to Hire and Work with a Contractor – Part 1

2008-03-04T09:44:00.001-08:00

Sooner or later you may need to hire a contractor to perform maintenance, painting, remodeling, landscaping, or other project. Here are some tips on how to choose a contractor to ensure you get a fair price and are treated fairly during the process.

* Start by writing down exactly what it is you want the contractor to do and when you want it done. Be specific.

* Make a list of prospective contractors. Ask friends and neighbors, check the phone book, your local newspaper, or online classified ads like Craig's List.

* Meet with the contractors you've selected to show them your property and discuss the project in detail. Use your written description of the project to make sure you cover all the points on it with each contractor you meet.

* If a contractor suggests additional work, ask for his estimate in two parts with the second part covering the additional work he suggests beyond what was on your original project description.

* Ask exactly who will be doing the work and the extent of the contractor's personal involvement in your project.

* For small projects, payment is usually made in full on completion. Larger projects usually require making interim payments on a weekly or monthly basis. Make sure you both agree on when interim payments will be made.

* Get an estimate in writing. Be sure it specifies all labor and materials that may be required. If subcontractors are required, be sure the estimate includes their cost as well.

* Choose your contractor based on whatever factor you're most comfortable with: lowest price; reputation; or ‘gut feel'.

* It's good business practice for both of you to sign a copy of the estimate and for you to give the contractor a deposit before the project begins. The deposit can be either a flat fee or a percentage of the total estimate amount.

* Never make full payment for a project up front.

Please let us know by phone or email if we can provide additional tips for dealing with contractors or if we can provide any referrals. We are always happy to help you, your family and friends with any real estate related needs.

Developer rethinking riverfront project

2008-02-29T09:02:00.001-08:00

Here's an article updating you on the Riverfront Project from today's Wenatchee World:

Developer rethinking riverfront projectBy Jay PatrickWorld staff writer Posted February 28, 2008

"WENATCHEE - Construction of a major riverfront development at the foot of Orondo Avenue won't start this summer as planned.

Bellingham businessman Ted Mischaikov said Wednesday that several new hotel projects in the Wenatchee area have him re-evaluating the demand for yet another one."We are still exploring possibilities. We're trying to understand (the market) with the flurry of hospitality activity," Mischaikov said.

The activity includes the pending sale of the city's public works property on Worthen Street to the Sukhmander Diamond Hotel Corp. The corporation owns seven hotels in the area."

Click below to read the rest of the article.

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080228/NEWS04/242783339

Number of NCW homes for sale on the rise

2008-02-28T09:28:00.001-08:00

Here's an insightful article from today's Wenatchee World:

Number of NCW homes for sale on the riseBuyers may benefit from increase of available homes By Travis HayWorld staff writerPosted February 27, 2008

"WENATCHEE - The number of homes for sale in the Wenatchee area in January more than doubled from the year before as housing sales slumped.

According to a report by Pacific Appraisal Associates, 498 homes were listed last month, compared with 193 on the market in January 2007.

Jerry Paine, president of the North Central Washington Association of Realtors, theorized that the increase in homes on the market is likely due to a surge in building permits last year. Paine said buyers should benefit from the increase of homes for sale."

Click below for the whole article!

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080227/NEWS04/101478849/1001

Treating Your Porch or Patio as an Additional Room

2008-02-25T10:22:00.000-08:00

During warmer months, many of us enjoy spending time outside on our porch or patio. More open and airy than indoors, these areas are perfect for entertaining or simply visiting with neighbors and friends. Here are some tips to make your porch or patio an extension of your home:

* Make your outdoor area inviting by arranging comfortable seating, dining, coffee or side tables, and umbrellas. Potted plants provide a pleasing visual link to your outdoor landscape.

* If you have space, a portable fire pit can be a wonderful focal point after dark. Make sure yours has a screen mesh spark arrestor. Check local ordinances to make sure they're legal for use in your neighborhood. Always keep a fire extinguisher and garden hose nearby for safety.

* Add solar-powered electric lighting, candles, or torches for nighttime entertaining. A portable radio or MP3 player can provide background music.

* Today's new generation of indoor/outdoor fabrics make it easy to add comfortable upholstered cushions without fear of fading or mildew. Fit a glass top to an old trunk which can then be used as winter storage for the cushions.

* To help control insect pests, porches can be screened in. Use citronella candles on patios or decks to reduce mosquitoes. Minimize additional mosquitoes by draining any areas with standing water after a rain.

Please let us know by phone or email if we can provide names of nearby stores specializing in outdoor furniture and accessories.

How to Prepare Your Home Before a Natural Disaster Strikes

2008-02-22T14:14:00.001-08:00

Earthquakes, tornados, hurricanes and floods are an unfortunate fact of life in many areas. Here are some steps you can take to get ready before any kind of disaster occurs:

* Be prepared to spend up to 72 hours without utilities, medical help or communications.

* Start an emergency kit in a crushproof box containing bottled drinking water, a first aid kit, flashlight, non-perishable food, blankets, basic toiletries, a portable radio and extra batteries. Camping gear can also be valuable. Make sure your kit is up-to-date and easily available in a safe, dry place.

* Strap your hot water heater and any gas appliances to a wall. Turn off gas at the meter ONLY if you smell a leak. Leave your home immediately and call the utility company from a safe place.

* Hold a home evacuation drill. Have a plan for reuniting your family. Keep photos of family members in your wallet in case they turn up missing.

* Educate your children. Get a copy of their school's disaster policy regarding emergency transportation and student release.

* Keep a stash of cash hidden in the event that banks or automatic teller machines shut down.

Please let us know by phone or email if we can provide additional tips. We value having the opportunity to be your trusted real estate resource.

Riverfront condos rising

2008-02-20T09:53:00.001-08:00

Here's a good article from Today's Wenatchee World which shares some updates on the new Wenatchee Riverfront condo project:

Riverfront condos risingUnits going for up to $650,000 to be ready in April By Jay PatrickWorld staff writerPosted February 19, 2008

"WENATCHEE - The remodeling of Wenatchee's riverfront hits a milestone this spring when the first of a handful of large condo projects is ready.

Nine units at Riverwalk, a condominium complex next to Walla Walla Point Park, will be completed in April, said developer Randy Zielinski. The agent marketing the condos, which cost from $440,000 to $650,000 - said four are sold. The units are either 1,740 square feet or 2,150 square feet."

Click below for the full story!

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080219/NEWS04/496448497

Housing sales up locally, mostly down statewide

2008-02-18T16:01:00.001-08:00

Here's an article from the Wenatchee World commenting on the real estate market in Chelan and Douglas counties:

Housing sales up locally, mostly down statewide
By The Associated PressPosted February 15, 2008

"SPOKANE - Chelan and Douglas counties bucked the statewide downturn in housing sales during the last three months of 2007."

Click below to read more:

http://wenatcheeworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080215/NEWS04/287475353

Should You Sell a Home First Before Buying the Next One?

2008-02-15T16:22:00.001-08:00

If you're thinking about moving, you have to make a decision: do you buy your new home first and then sell your old one? Or sell first and then buy?

The biggest obstacle to selling first is that you may have to move twice - first into a rental, then again into the next home. Many buyers need to sell first in order to free up cash to purchase a new home. If you buy before you sell, making a contingent offer on the new home or taking out a bridge loan can make your decision, and the moving process, easier. But there are some important factors worth considering:

* An offer to purchase a new home that's contingent upon the sale of your current home can be "bumped" if another buyer makes an offer that is not contingent.

* To make the contingent offer more appealing to the seller, many buyers offer full price. But making a contingent offer may cost you negotiating leverage on both ends. A full price offer to the seller means you lose the ability to negotiate the sale price, and also puts pressure on you to accept a lower price on your current home in order to sell it quickly.

* A bridge loan provides interim financing to "bridge the gap" until your first home sells. It also means making two house payments until your old home sells, so you need to decide how long you will be comfortable paying for two homes at the same time.

Your decision to buy first or sell first depends on your individual circumstances and the market conditions in your area. Please call or send us an email if we can help with more information to make your decision easier.

How to Set Your House Apart from Others on the Market

2008-02-12T12:59:00.001-08:00

When you decide to sell your home, having it in tip-top condition can make a huge difference in how quickly it sells and the amount of the offer you receive. Prospective buyers eagerly look at every new home as it comes on the market so taking care to ensure your home looks its best can help make it stand out from the others.

Here are some tips you might find helpful:

* Start with a well-cared-for yard and freshly-mowed lawn. Your front door, porch and entryway should be clean and neat, preferably newly painted.

* Remove excess furniture and accessories so the rooms appear larger.

* Pack family photographs and other personal effects away to make your home appear more ‘generic' and easier for prospective buyers to imagine themselves living in it.

* Have your home thoroughly cleaned beforehand. Make sure that beds are made, dishes are done and everything is picked up.

* Bring the outside in with fresh flowers. Potted flowering plants last much longer than cut flowers.

Also, click here http://www.wenatcheehouses.com/marketing_plan.php to view The Davidson Team's Custom Marketing Plan. If you'd like more suggestions on getting your home ready for sale, please don't hesitate to call or email us.

Neighborhood Garage Sale How-To’s

2008-02-04T15:02:00.000-08:00

Everyone seems to have too much clutter in their home, so having a neighborhood garage sale is a great way to get rid of it as well as to have some fun in the process. Neighborhood sales offer shoppers a great way to take in several sales in one convenient location. Here are some tips and suggestions to organizing one in your neighborhood:

* Ask your neighbors who might be willing to participate, then set a date well in advance to give everyone enough time to gather what they want to sell.

* Advertise the event as a neighborhood sale in a local newspaper or on a classified ad web site like Craig’s List. Remember to include your address and what days and times the sale will take place.

* Place directional signs at nearby key intersections.

* Be prepared for early arrivals. Decide whether you want to allow ‘early birds’ or if you will begin only at the specified time.

* Start with an adequate amount of change and small bills on hand. Decide whether you will accept checks.

* After the sale, gather everyone’s unsold items to make a single trip to a donation charity.

* Finally, organize an after-sale pot luck dinner or barbecue for all the neighbors.

Neighborhood garage sales are a great way to reduce the clutter in your home as well as to visit with your neighbors. Please call or email us if you'd like additional tips or suggestions.

How to Improve Your Home’s Investment

2008-01-29T11:09:00.001-08:00

Research shows that for most of us, the equity in our homes is more than three times greater than the value of all our other investments combined. In spite of the cyclical volatility in the housing market, you can increase the long-term equity in your home through regular maintenance and well-planned improvements.

Postponing needed maintenance can substantially reduce your home’s market value when you decide to sell it. The three types of maintenance most commonly deferred are water damage, pests and roof repair or replacement.

Remodeling can add improvements that will make your home more functional and pleasurable to live in now as well as more valuable when you do put it on the market. Updating your kitchen and bathrooms are your best remodeling investment while converting a basement into a family room, adding a sport court or swimming pool provide the lowest return in terms of increased equity.

Prospective buyers are looking for a home that best fits their living needs with a minimum of work before they move in. While you may not be ready to sell right now, making sure your home is properly maintained and tastefully updated can provide a handsome return on your investment when you do decide to sell.

Please contact us if we can answer any questions or provide you with additional information.

We Won 2007 NCW Realtor “Rookie” of the Year!

2008-01-18T11:27:00.001-08:00

It’s hard for us to believe that just over one year ago we were teaching real estate agents how to be successful in their businesses and developing products to support their efforts. Now we’re implementing the same business model, systems, processes and cutting edge technology in our own business, and couldn’t be any happier doing it.

Thank you for making our first year in Wenatchee and in business a special one. In fact, we were named the North Central Washington Realtor Association’s Realtor “Rookie” of the Year. We’ve also been nominated to receive Realtor Magazine’s 30-Under-30 award, given to the top 30 Realtors in the United States under 30 years of age. We’re very proud of these accomplishments and recognition, and appreciate your business and friendship!

We are blessed to be enjoying so many amazingly positive experiences, business and personal learnings, and new friends! Warm regards and happy New Year!

Developer pushes big plans for resort on Columbia

2008-01-16T11:35:00.000-08:00

Today's Wenatchee World reports exciting plans for a new resort and golf course on the Columbia, between Rock Island and Trinidad:

"Resort plans, which have been approved by Douglas County commissioners, call for 497 single-family homes and 628 condominium and townhouse units, ranging from about $250,000 to $1 million in price. About 85 percent of the units will have river views. Work on utilities, including a $12 million sewer plant, is expected to begin this summer."

Click below to see the entire story:

http://wenworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080116/NEWS04/373562478

Cut Your Closing Costs

2008-01-07T12:56:00.001-08:00

Closing is the point at which a contract between a buyer and a seller is executed, and the title to the property changes hands. This process has a variety of associated costs, most of which are paid at closing.

Normal Closing Costs
Closing costs can be highly variable since they're dependant on the size of the mortgage and the value of the property. Typically, closing costs are between three and five percent of the property's value, and may include the following:

* Loan origination fees - also called points (one point equals one percent of the mortgage). The standard fee is one point. Paying more points can secure a lower interest rate.

* Title search and insurance - a title search examines a property's historical records to ensure that the seller is the legal owner of the property. Title insurance protects the buyer if tax liens or unpaid mortgages are overlooked in the examination.

* Inspection fees - includes pest and property inspection.

* Mortgage broker fee - applicable only if you use a broker.

* Tax service fee - if the lender chooses to hire an independent service to monitor property tax payments.

* Document preparation and administration fees.

Payable in Advance
Most closing costs are paid when the sale of the property is finalized. However, some fees must be paid in advance, including:

* Application fee - the cost of processing the loan, usually payable at the time of application.

* Credit report fee - the buyer's credit history is reviewed as part of the application process.

* Appraisal fee for the property.

* Pre-paid interest - the interest on the loan from the day of closing until the first monthly mortgage payment.

* Escrow account funds - may include two months' worth of advance payments for mortgage insurance, hazard insurance, homeowner's insurance and property taxes.

Hidden Costs
So-called hidden costs are those which lenders are not required to disclose in the Good Faith Estimate. These can include:

* Courier fees * Notary fees * Documentation fees * Overnight delivery fees * Processing fees

You can save money on these hidden costs by asking lenders to send documents by regular mail rather than by overnight delivery, or by asking if they can transfer documents electronically.

Who Pays?In a typical situation, the buyer of a property will pay closing costs. However, you can sometimes persuade the seller to pay for some or all of the closing costs. If your immediate finances are tight, reducing the amount of cash you need to pay at closing can be very helpful.

If you ask the seller to pay some or all of your closing costs, it is essentially the same as negotiating a lower sale price for the property. To a seller who is asking $200,000 for their property, there is no difference in accepting an offer of $190,000 and accepting an offer of $195,000 which includes agreeing to pay $5,000 in closing costs. To you as the buyer, however, it means that you've reduced the amount of cash you need by $5,000. You may not save any money overall, but if the seller pays for closing, it means you pay less cash up front. If you want to ask the seller to pay for closing costs, it can be as simple as deciding what you want to offer for the property, adding your estimated closing costs to it - and then making that offer contingent on the seller paying for closing. Note that if the market is slow or the seller needs to sell quickly, you stand a better chance of negotiating successfully.

How to Avoid 8 Costly Moving Mistakes

2008-01-07T12:52:00.001-08:00

If you have a move in your future, there are definite ways to make the process go as smoothly as possible. Plan ahead and you'll avoid these 8 costly moving mistakes.

1. Scheduling your move on the same day of closing
While most buyers take possession of their new home on the day of closing, there are a lot of conflicts that can arise unexpectedly. Be sure to keep in constant communication with your escrow company so as not to delay your moving plans.

2. Not requiring a written estimate
It's fine to have moving companies give you an estimate over the phone or Internet. But to get a firm price, you need to ask the company to send a representative to walk through your home while you point out exactly what you want transported. Be sure you understand the conditions of the estimate - can they raise your bill on delivery? Does the contract allow them to bill you for more later?

3. Choosing a moving company based on price alone
You could end up spending more time and money in the end trying to fix a moving disaster. Check out the company's references (try to get two), licensing, insurance and length of time in business.

4. Not making a first night survival kit
Better to be safe than sorry. If your shipment hasn't arrived or you're simply too tired to unpack everything, you'll be thankful to have an accessible overnight bag with some essential items you'll need for the first night in your new place. Don't forget toiletries, medication, children's and pet's necessities - and maybe even a bottle of champagne to celebrate.

5. Not using a dolly or a hand truck
Whether you're moving yourself or just rearranging things after a professional move, the money you spend to rent or buy moving equipment will pay for itself by dodging back strains and chiropractic visits.

6. Refusing extra coverage for loss and breakage
The basic limited liability coverage offered to you, free of charge, by the movers will not be sufficient. And most homeowners' policies don't cover items broken or lost in a move. Extra insurance can be purchased through an independent insurance company, which will cover you for the duration of the move. Your mover will be able to direct you to a company that will bind your move.

7. Not labeling boxes
When packing boxes, make sure you label the top and sides of boxes with contents, location of contents in your house and any special instructions, such as "fragile" or "open first." Also, by keeping a list of the contents on the outside of the box, you won't have to dig through several boxes marked "kitchen" just to find a pan.

8. Not keeping your receipts
If you're moving closer to a job, your moving costs may be tax-deductible. Keep receipts for moving household goods, utility change fees and lodging and travel expenses. However, if your employer covers those costs, you won't be allowed to deduct them.

Increase Your Home’s Value through Energy Efficient Upgrades

2008-01-07T12:50:00.001-08:00

Increasing energy efficiency in the home is becoming more important for several reasons. It is, of course, a great way to reduce your monthly utility bills, but it's also important because the world's sources of energy are not infinite, and more people are recognizing this and looking at ways to make their homes more energy-efficient. Lastly, remodeling your home with energy efficiency in mind increases its value due to the resulting lower monthly utility costs.

Insulation
Good insulation is perhaps the most effective way of improving the energy efficiency of your home. However, some insulators are better than others. Fiberglass, once the most commonly-used insulator, is no longer as popular as it once was. Most fiberglass insulators are made using formaldehyde, and can release gas which decreases your air quality. Cellulose is a more efficient option; however some cellulose insulators may be treated with formaldehyde, so it pays to check before you by. Superior cellulose insulators are treated with ammonium sulfate or borates, both of which are non-toxic. Cotton insulation has been increasing in popularity, due to its efficacy and the fact that it is environmentally-friendly. Cotton insulation is treated with boron, and is fire-retardant, pest-repellant, and completely non-toxic.

Windows and Doors
The average home loses up to 30% of its heat (or air-conditioning) energy through windows. Well-sealed windows and exterior doors are just as important as insulation for preventing energy loss. However, many frame materials require maintenance and choosing framing material that provides greater energy efficiency is often a trade-off in which more frequent maintenance is required. Wood frames are the most efficient in terms of energy loss and cause less condensation than other materials, however they will require painting or staining to keep them looking attractive. Aluminum frames, on the other hand, need very little maintenance but they are at the bottom of the list in terms of energy efficiency. Aluminum-clad windows are much more efficient. These are wood frames with an aluminum exterior, and combine the efficiency of wood with the low maintenance requirements of traditional aluminum frames.

Cooling
Many of the measures you take to prevent heat loss in your home will also help keep it cooler during warm weather. In addition, consider installing ceiling fans in your home. These are a more energy-efficient way of cooling than air-conditioners.

Efficient Lighting
When it comes to installing energy-efficient lighting, there are two main options - light dimmers and motion sensors. Light dimmers are switches which allow you to control the intensity of lighting in a room. Motion sensors turn lights on and off automatically by sensing when people enter and leave a room. These are particularly effective in rooms which are used irregularly, and in outdoor areas.

Outdoors
In the outdoors, trees and large shrubs are a less obvious way of making your home more energy efficient. With the additional advantage of adding appeal to your yard, careful planting of trees can add windbreaks which shield your house from wind, helping to prevent heat loss. Trees can also provide shade during the summer months, and help keep your home cool.

Using an Energy-Efficient Mortgage to Finance Remodeling
Major remodeling jobs that are planned with energy efficiency in mind can be expensive. This kind of remodeling will save you money in the long term, but the start-up costs are high. One way of financing such remodeling is with an Energy-efficient Mortgage. To qualify for an EEM, the money you save on your monthly utility bills must be greater than the monthly repayment of the EEM, and your total savings must also be more than your total costs (including maintenance). When you are granted an EEM, you have 90-180 days to carry out the remodeling work. Additionally, you cannot be granted an EEM if you apply after remodeling has started, or if you apply after any other financing has been granted.

Thought Provoking: 1/7/08

2008-01-07T12:47:00.001-08:00

The Wooden Bowl

A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law and four-year old grandson. The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred and his step faltered. Even in this frail condition, he ate his meals with the family at the dinner table.

But the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor. When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth.

The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess. "We must do something about Grandfather," said the son. I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating and food on the floor.So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner. There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner. Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl.

When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometime he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone. Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food. The four-year-old watched it all in silence.

One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor. He asked the child sweetly, "What are you making?" Just as sweetly, the boy responded, "Oh, I am making a little bowl so you and Mama can eat your food when I grow up." The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.

The words so struck the parents that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what they had to do.

That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table. For the remainder of his days the old man ate every meal with the family. And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk was spilled or the tablecloth was soiled.

- - Author Unknown

We've all heard it said that we should never judge another man until we have walked a mile in his shoes. Hopefully, the story of the Wooden Bowl has again reinforced the concept of giving consideration to other people's circumstances before we pass judgment on their activities.

Wouldn't it be best, when we become irritated with another person, to pause for a moment, give thought to his/her situation and then take action only after having done so. The world would become a much better place if we all made this a rule by which we live.

The Buying Process

2008-01-07T12:45:00.000-08:00

Buyers are a huge part of our business model and we're finding that the average home buyer doesn't know the basic systems and processes for buying a home. I thought it would be helpful to list the HIGH LEVEL steps normally taken during the buying process:

1) The buyer holds an initial consultation with a Realtor.
2) Buyer meets with a lender for Loan Qualification. Buyer obtains a prequalification letter.
3) Buyer meets with his/her Realtor to shop for a home.
4) Buyer finds the "ideal home" and writes an offer.
5) The offer is presented and is negotiated.
6) An "escrow" is opened.
7) Buyer submits a loan application.
8) Buyer completes inspections and approves of disclosures.
9) The loan is underwritten and the home is appraised.
10) Contingencies are removed.
11) All title documents are searched and reviewed.
12) The loan is approved.
13) Buyer obtains homeowners insurance.
14) Documents are signed.
15) Down payment is submitted and the loan is funded.
16) Title transfers.

There are certainly additional, more granular steps when buying, but the above process will give you a high level idea for process and flow.

BUYING A NEIGHBORHOOD/COMMUNITY

2008-01-07T12:43:00.001-08:00

When searching for a new home, don't forget one of the most important considerations: location, location, and location.

Because the neighborhood/community in which you live affects your life in many ways--including your children's education, travel time to and from conveniences and work, the level of comfort you feel with your surroundings, the future value of your home investment and many other factors--we suggest that you focus on a neighborhood/community before you search for a specific home.

Working through your Realtor, explore the personalities of the neighborhoods/communities in your price range, before narrowing your search down to individual homes. Take the time to research the schools, driving times, available conveniences, the social and professional make-up, value trends, etc. Be sure you choose to view homes only in neighborhoods that fit your personality and life style. This will ensure a happy end result!

Home Inspection Thoughts

2008-01-07T12:41:00.001-08:00

When buying a new home, please don't just accept the seller's word that the residence is in good condition and that it is free of problems. It is very possible defects exist that are less than obvious to an untrained eye and of which the seller is unaware. It is in the buyer's best interest to, at the buyer's expense, hire a professional home inspector.

In most locations, the seller is required to provide for the buyer a Disclosure Form that details the property's features. This form also notifies the purchaser of any defects in the home of which the seller has knowledge. The buyer should take the time to read this completed disclosure form carefully. If there are flaws indicated that he/she finds unacceptable, the seller should be asked to correct the problems. If the seller refuses to fulfill the buyer's request, the buyer should be under no further obligation to complete the transaction.

To discover hidden or less obvious defects, a buyer can hire a professional home inspector to scrutinize the property. These professionals are trained to examine a house in detail and to find any problems that may affect a home's value. To find a quality home inspector, simply ask your Realtor for a list of recommendations.

As a value added benefit for listing and selling your home with The Davidson Team, you will receive a FREE home inspection as a part of our services. Additionally, we also provide tips on how to gain the most out of the inspections.

The Importance of the Internet When Selling A Home

2008-01-07T12:40:00.001-08:00

There is a direct correlation between the number of "lookers" a For Sale home attracts and its final selling price. More potential buyers viewing a home result in a larger net proceeds check for the seller.

If you are thinking of selling a home, to maximize your profits, list it with a real estate agent that has the ability to attract a large number of buyers. How do you know if an agent is a "buyer magnet?" One factor is the agent's sphere of influence; do they have a large database of past clients and prospective clients that they regularily stay in contact with? Another is an agent's marketing strategy. And there are many more...BUT in today's real estate world, the Internet plays a very pivotol role...and unfortunatley there are agents that currently are not utilizing this amazing tool for the benefit of their clients.

In the most recent studies from the National Association of Realtors, over 80% of all potential buyers begin their home search on the Internet. Websites, pay per click marketing, search engine optimization, blogs (to name a few) are quickly becoming the most powerful tools and channels an agent has for finding buyers.

When interviewing a listing agent, ask him/her to show you examples of his/her websites. Is the website well placed in the major search engines, is the site attractive in its presentation, is it easy for the customer to use, does it offer enough information to hold the customers interest and does it gather sufficient consumer information to allow the agent to follow-up?

Additionally, ask the agent to view a copy of their Marketing Plan (http://www.wenatcheehouses.com/marketing_plan.php). A Realtor may be using the Internet, but are they doing it in a effective and holistic manner, complimenting all marketing channels, branding strategies...and ultimately working in the best interest of the home seller?!?!Find an agent who does these things and you are one step closer to maximizing your net profits!

Have an outstanding week!

OVERBUILDING IN A NEIGHBORHOOD

2008-01-07T12:39:00.001-08:00

The old adage, "The three most important things to consider when buying a home are location, location and location" will always hold true. The value of an individual piece of property or home is usually dictated by its location. However, the surrounding area and neighboring homes play a major role in determining the value of an individual property as well.

If you are considering enlarging the size of an existing home, doing an expensive remodel or making costly improvements, please exercise care. When the time comes to sell, you may not be able to recapture your investment. If you overbuild or over improve for a neighborhood, with all of the surrounding homes having a lesser value, the value of your improvements will be reduced. The worst investment a homeowner can make is to have the best home in a neighborhood. The best home increases the value of neighboring properties. However, the surrounding, less valuable homes pull down the value of the over improved home. In essence, you are doing wonderful things for the neighbors but they are not returning the favor.

When considering improving or remodeling an in existing home, be sure the evaluate the entire situation and be sure your investment will be a good. Also, rather than investing in your current home, consider selling it and buying the home you desire in a neighborhood that justifies a larger, more prestigious residence.

Tips for Getting Pre-approved for a Mortgage

2008-01-03T12:55:00.001-08:00

In a competitive market, getting mortgage pre-approval is essential. It gives you a great bargaining tool when you're negotiating with sellers. Regardless of the market situation, pre-approval is also handy because it means that before you even start house-hunting, you've got a good idea of what you can afford.

Pre-approval versus Pre-qualification

Pre-qualification and pre-approval are similar processes. Having pre-qualification means that you have a general idea of how much mortgage you can afford, but it's not guaranteed that you will get that amount when you apply for the mortgage. Pre-approval takes the process a step further than pre-qualification, because the lender will verify your employment, income, assets, debts, and credit history, and you will receive a letter stating that your mortgage is approved for a certain amount of money, usually with a limit of between 30 and 90 days. That means you know exactly how much you have to spend, and sellers know that you're a serious customer.

Pre-approval has another advantage in that it saves you time when it comes to closing on a property - you've already been through about 90% of the mortgage application process. If you have pre-approval it means that all you need to finalize the mortgage is a purchase contract and a property appraisal. Being able to close quickly is an advantage in a competitive market, and in a slow one it may help you negotiate a great deal on a property.

Note that if you are pre-approved for a mortgage, you must notify your lender immediately if your financial circumstances change between pre-approval and closing, as your pre-approval may be invalidated.

Increase Your Chances of Pre-approval

Pay Your DebtsAny debt that you can't pay in full within six months will be included as part of your monthly debt total. And the higher your debt total, the lower the chances you have of getting pre-approved - if your monthly debt total exceeds about 36% of your gross monthly income, getting pre-approval may be difficult.

Don't Create New DebtYour pre-approval is subject to an evaluation of your finances. If you're thinking about buying a home then it's a wise move to refrain from making any large credit purchases. It's estimated that every $100 a month you pay on a credit card reduces your home loan eligibility by $10,000.

PreparationWhen you're preparing to apply for a mortgage pre-approval, there is a wide variety of supporting documentation you'll need to locate and have ready for the application process. This includes tax returns, pay stubs, evidence of any other income, bank statements, and debt payment booklets or account statements.

What to Do If You Have Bad Credit

When assessing your credit, mortgage lenders typically pad most attention to your FICO score. Some lenders won't even consider offering a mortgage to anyone with a FICO score of less than 680. So what do you do if your credit isn't that good?

* Check your credit reports - obtain a copy of your FICO score and credit reports and check to make sure there are no errors.

* If you can manage a larger down-payment, it may help your chances of getting pre-approved.

* Sub-prime mortgage lenders offer mortgages for people with credit problems. They usually involve paying a higher interest rate, however it's possible to get a sub-prime mortgage and then refinance to a conventional loan with a lower interest rate after a couple of years of rebuilding credit.

GOOD TIME OR BAD TIME?

2008-01-03T12:52:00.001-08:00

With all the "good news" and "bad news" that we see on in the media about today's economy, it is hard for the homeowner to decide if now is the time to buy and/or sell real estate. We are often asked, by homeowners who want to move up or move down to a different home, if now is the right time to sell and purchase.

The fact is, regardless of market conditions, if you want to purchase a "move-up" or "move-down" home, there is no wrong time to do so. If the market is extremely active, you will get a premium price for the home you are selling and the active market will demand that you also pay a premium price for the home you purchase. If the market is very slow, you will have to accept a reasonable price for your home but you will find less competition when purchasing your new home. You sell at a reduced price but you also purchase at a reduced price.

When selling a home to buy another, there is no bad timing. In a good market you sell and buy with inflated dollars. In a slow market you sell and buy with deflated dollars. You really don't gain or lose in either situation.

Now is a great time to buy and sell real estate.

Thought Provoking: 1/3/08

2008-01-03T12:50:00.000-08:00

The great and glorious master-piece of man is how to live with a purpose. -Michel de Montaigne
Not long ago, a friend was in the final minutes of a flight into Chicago. Through the window, as the plane aligned with the runway, he saw thousands of commuters inching along, in bumper-to-bumper traffic. Each driver's goal was to just escape the city and return home from a hard day's work. No one, in that snarled mess of cars, could have been enjoying life at that moment in time.

It often amazes me the obstacles people are willing to overcome to accomplish a task. Why would anyone subject themselves to a lifestyle that requires so many hassles to get to and from work. The obvious answer is that they need their job to earn a living. I think the true motivation goes a lot deeper.

As a child, I used to spend hours watching ants working around an anthill. Each ant worked at its task with very definite purpose. If I put an obstacle into an ant's path, to disrupt its work, it would go into a complete frenzy until the obstacle had been removed. What is it about an ant that makes the completion of a task so important? What is it that drives nearly all living things to be task oriented? Why are most human activities, even our sports, based on the successful completion of a task? Could it be that life comes with an inborn need to have purpose, to have a reason to exist?

I believe the answer to this question is a definite "yes." The happiest people I know are the ones who have taken a task, worked hard to accomplish whatever it is the task required and then stood back to admire and appreciate the end result of their effort. There is a direct correlation between having purpose and being happy.

When we start our day tomorrow, what will our purpose be? Will we end the day having done nearly nothing and living with the resulting frenzy of negative emotions? Or, will we end the day feeling great because of all the things we've accomplished?

We are in control of our lives! We have the power to choose between being happy and just being. We can matter or just be matter. If we are uncomfortable with who we are, we have the power to change. By finding a purpose, finding a task and doing it well, we will experience happiness as we have never experienced it before. We are made to establish goals and to persist until they are reached. That is how we find out who we are. That is how we build a life.

We have a choice...we can't buy happiness but we do have the power to create it. If we find something we want to do and do it well, we will have improved self-esteem, self-acceptance, and happiness.

The Davidson Team's Buyer Guide

2007-12-28T16:09:00.001-08:00

Home buying and home ownership is not always easy, but most people agree that the rewards outweigh the challenges. The first challenge, of course, is to learn all the steps to buying a home. Our Buyers Guide will provide helpful tips and information you need to understand the process and get started on your path to home ownership. Click here http://www.wenatcheehouses.com/buyer_guide.pdf to review the guide.

For additional Buyer and Seller information, check out a variety of educational resources and articles at http://www.wenatcheehouses.com/buyersandsellers.php.

Home Selling Strategies

2007-12-28T16:05:00.000-08:00

The key to selling a home for the best possible price, and with the fewest number of hassles, is to attract as many potential buyers to the property as possible. The following are tips that will help you reach your home selling goals:

- 1) It is critical that you make your home emotional and appealing. Home buyers purchase a residence based more on its emotional appeal than on any other single factor. To maximize your home selling profits, it must show very well. With the guidance of a real estate professional, your home should be made as emotionally appealing as possible.

- 2) To maximize your net selling proceeds; you must have an aggressive, well-organized marketing plan. Because there is a direct correlation between the number of potential buyers who view your home and its final selling price, you should do everything possible to access 100%+ of the available buyer pool. A great marketing plan is often designed to attract buyers from sources that most laymen don't even know exist. Click here http://www.wenatcheehouses.com/marketing_plan.php to view The Davidson Team's marketing strategy.

- 3) Quality advertising is critical to selling a home with minimal inconvenience and for the best possible price. Be sure your home is advertised in publications that maximize exposure and attract the greatest number of buyers. Finding these sources will require either experience or a substantial amount of research.

- 4) A well-recognized sign placed in front of a property can make a big difference in the benefits received by a home seller. The recognition and familiarity that come with a well-known real estate sign make a potential buyer more likely to view a property. And, as we have already discussed, more buyers usually mean a higher net for the seller. 17% of all homes that sell do so because of the sign in the front yard.

- 5) A unique and powerful strategy to help sell a home is to implement a Choose a Neighbor program. A neighboring homeowner may have a friend, relative or acquaintance that might be searching for a house. If these neighboring homeowners are made aware that a property is available, they often introduce the "For Sale" home to potential buyers.

- 6) An extremely professional informational and photo brochure should be created for your home. This brochure must feature top quality photos and an exclusive, detailed home description. A quality brochure is one of the most effective tools available to a home seller.

- 7) Open Houses should be held if the property is in a location that would make holding a home open appropriate, beneficial and convenient for the seller. The keys to a successful Open House are to display the home correctly, to have the proper signage and to market the event to as many potential buyers as possible. Follow-up with the people who attend the Open House is also critical.

- 8) Following-up with each potential buyer who has viewed a home is extremely important to home selling success. A homeowner must know what buyers and agents who have viewed the residence are thinking. When a seller becomes aware of problems that are keeping potential buyers from writing offers, he can make the needed corrections.

- 9) A home seller can increase the size of the buyer pool for his/her property by exposing it to as many worldwide referral networks as possible. These networks, usually established between professional real estate organizations, are an incredible source of potential buyers.

- 10) In today's world, where nearly 90%+ of all potential home buyers begin their property search on the Internet, it is important to have a "For Sale" property displayed on as many websites as possible. By doing so, a home will be exposed to many thousands of buyers; locally, nationally and internationally.

-11) Approximately 66% of all people who move from one home to another, do so within the same community in which they have been living. For this reason, it is often to a home seller's advantages to target market his property to homeowners who would view his home as a potential move-up residence. By doing so, the home seller can stimulate buyer interest from people who might otherwise never know the home is available.

- 12) The most important aspect of selling a home is to have it priced correctly. Homes that are priced correctly sell for the most money, with the fewest possible hassles. It is critical to thoroughly research what buyers have been willing to pay for like properties and to price the subject home accordingly. Overpriced homes, in the end, usually sell for less.

- 13) The majority of homes that sell do so through cooperation between two real estate agents. Because agents share information and expose their listings to other Realtors through the Multiple Listing Service, it is important that a home, to receive maximum buyer exposure, be listed in this cooperative system. Homes that are not listed in the MLS miss being exposed to thousands of buyers and, of course, fewer buyers usually mean a lower final sales price.

- 14) One of the keys to selling a home for the most profit is to make it convenient for potential buyers to view the property. Any access limitations discourage some buyers from viewing a home. It is critical that the residence be accessible at the times when buyers are available. Those times are daily from 9:00 AM to approximately 8:00 PM.

IN SUMMARY:

( A) A home seller cannot wait around hoping a buyer will discover his/her home and purchase it. Buyers must be aggressively sought through an efficient and effective marketing plan.
( B) Maximizing a home's exposure requires that a financial investment be made in quality marketing tools and systems.
( C) A step-by-step, organized, effective marketing plan, one that has proven itself to be the successful, must be implemented to maximize a home's exposure.
( D) The person who is marketing a home must know the real estate business! This knowledge comes from both formal real estate education and from hands-on experience.
( E) A home should be marketed with specific goals in mind. These goals should include getting the best possible price, in the shortest amount of time. It should be marketed with the fewest possible inconveniences to the homeowner.
( F) To maximize value and minimize inconveniences, a home seller must access 100%+ of the available Buyer Pool. Buyers must be attracted from as many sources as possible.

The Davidson Team's goal is to have you be amazed with the quality of my services. You have our personal guarantee that you will never find a more complete and satisfying real estate experience anywhere in the world. Your satisfaction is our only purpose.

If you would like a more thorough presentation of Home Selling Strategies, or if you would like to know the value of a property you own, please call us for an appointment. We would be happy to provide you with a no-cost, no-obligation professional property evaluation.

Questions to ask your Realtor

2007-12-28T16:04:00.000-08:00

Just like in any industry, there are many different levels of professionalism, integrity and knowledge which Realtors provide their clients. Often times the general public assume that all agents are the same; that Realtors and their services are a commodity. This couldn't be farther from the the truth! In fact, the best agents utilize an array of world-class systems and processes to differentiate them from the run of the mill Realtor down the street. To ensure you work with the best Realtor possible, consider asking the following questions:

1) Are you a full-time agent?

2) Do you work alone or with assistants?

3) How many homes have you sold in the last 12 months?

4) How will you attract buyers for my home?

5) Will you give me a marketing plan in writing?

6) How many buyers have you sold homes to this year?

7) How will you maximize the price I receive and minimize the inconveniences?

8) What is most important to you, my satisfaction or your commission check?

9) Will you give me a reference list?

10) How do you utilize technology and the Internet to market the homes you list and effectively communicate with your clients?

11) How long have you been in the business (full time)?

12) Do you have any designations or certifications?

13) How do you rank in your office/area?

14) What is your list price to sales price ratio? How does that compare with the market generally

15) What is your average "days on market" and how does it compare to the market generally?

16) Why should I hire you?

17) Can you provide me with testimonials or references?

Click here http://www.wenatcheehouses.com/about.php to learn more about The Davidson Team.

Thought Provoking: 12/28/07

2007-12-28T15:56:00.001-08:00

There was once a man who was walking down a deserted beach in a foreign country. As he slowly walked along, he saw a native of that country coming toward him. As they drew nearer, the visitor noticed that the local inhabitant would periodically stop, bend over, pick something up, and then throw it into the ocean.

As they drew closer, the visitor realized that it was a starfish he was picking up and throwing back into the water. When they were close enough to speak, the visitor asked the man what he was doing. The local inhabitant responded that, when the tide went out, it left small pools of water, which quickly evaporated. In each of those pools were starfish that quickly died when the water was gone. He explained that, when he found such a starfish, he threw it back into the ocean.

The visitor seemed surprised, and said, "Sir, don't you realize that, on this beach alone, there must be thousands of starfish caught like this. You can't possibly save all of them. There are just too many, and besides, this is probably happening on hundreds of beaches all up and down the coast. With so many starfish, you can't possibly be making a difference." The local citizen looked at the visitor for a moment, bent down, picked up a starfish, and, throwing it into the ocean, said, "I made a difference to that one."

Shopping for the Best Mortgage

2007-12-28T15:18:00.001-08:00

Mortgage rates are on the rise, but historically speaking they are still fairly low. As a result of the favorable mortgage market, lenders have produced several new creative financing options for purchasing or refinancing. Don't let the confusion of mortgage options keep you from a new home or lower interest rate. Here is an introductory lesson to the four most common types of home loans.

Fixed-rate Mortgages

Fixed-rate mortgages have a fixed interest rate over the lifetime of the loan, usually between 10 and 30 years (40-year fixed-rate mortgages are also slowly increasing in popularity). This means that the amount you pay each month is fixed, too. It's a great mortgage choice if you want the reassurance of predictable loan expenses for the life of your mortgage.

Adjustable-rate Mortgages

This type of mortgage usually starts out with a lower interest rate (and therefore lower payments) than with a fixed-rate loan. However, your interest rate and monthly payments are dependent on market interest rates. The interest rate is usually adjusted annually, but depending on your loan package the adjustment period on your ARM may be as low as one month.

Increases in the interest rate are capped for each year, and for the lifetime of the loan. For example, an ARM interest rate might have an annual cap of 1.5% and a cap over the lifetime of the loan of 6%.

Adjustable-rate mortgages are a good option if you're planning to own the property for only a few years, or if you expect your income to increase over the years so you can comfortably afford higher payments if interest rates should rise.

Balloon Mortgages

Balloon mortgages typically have a lower interest rate than fixed-rate mortgages (and hence may be easier to qualify for), however the loan is payable in full after five to seven years.A balloon mortgage is a great option if you know you'll be selling the property before the balloon payment is due, and you're not comfortable with an adjustable-rate mortgage.

Jumbo Mortgages

A jumbo mortgage is simply one which is larger than a typical mortgage. The 2006 limit for a traditional (or conforming) loan is $417,000, and any amount over this figure is considered a jumbo (or non-conforming) mortgage. This type of mortgage usually has a higher interest rate than a conforming loan.

Getting Mortgage Quotes

To get the best possible rates, do your research and don't be afraid to to contact a mulitple lenders. Keep all your inquiries to within a 14-day period to prevent your credit score (also known as a FICO score) from being negatively impacted by too many credit inquiries. Most inquiries that take place within a 14-day stretch of time are counted as one inquiry.

It's wise to shop for a mortgage before you start house-hunting. Mortgage pre-approval is one of the best bargaining tools you can have when it comes to negotiating a sales price. Plus, it'll save you valuable time at closing.

The Davidson Team works with an outstanding preferred lender, Kevin Nelson at Discover NCW Mortgage. You can visit his website at http://www.kevinnelson.biz/. You can also reach him at (509) 663-9521 or info@kevinnelson.biz .

Luxary Home Trends

2007-12-28T15:12:00.001-08:00

One of the best ways to update your home and ensure a good resale value is to adopt trends from the luxury home market. These cutting edge trends eventually find their way into the new construction market and become mainstream styles. While most households can't afford in-home elevators or a custom wine cellar, here are a few of the affordable latest luxury home must-haves that are well on their way to new homes across the nation.

In the Kitchen

Warming drawer - Better than the warm setting in your oven, warming drawers keep foods hot and moist until guests arrive or the rest of the meal is ready.

Refrigerating oven - Program it to refrigerate during the day then log on remotely to start the cooking and have your meal ready when you get home.

Multi-level islands - A raised portion of a kitchen island adds dimension, a comfortable eating surface and, if placed strategically, can mask the clutter around a sink or stovetop area.

Three-door refrigerator - Two French doors on the top and a large one-drawer freezer on the bottom make for easier access to the items you use most.

Food prep sink - An extra sink doesn't need to take up a lot of precious counter space but in a large kitchen it can improve the work flow and even encourage others to participate in the food preparation.

In the Bath

Vertical spas - One of the hottest trends in today's baths, these incorporate multiple showerheads, water diverters and sophisticated temperature control systems into your shower.

Heated tile floors - Add to the spa feeling with cozy radiant heat under tile flooring. If you're considering new flooring, this is easy to install and a big selling point.

Towel warming drawers - This luxury trend started in the kitchen and is taking electric towel bars to a new level by warming up your robe and slippers.

Stone countertops - Granite, marble and soapstone come in natural colors that complement most bathroom cabinets. They're also easier to keep clean compared to traditional tile.

In the Master Suite

Fireplace - Gas fireplaces are quickly becoming fixtures in luxury homes. Builders are maximizing their effect by constructing them into a wall adjacent to the master bathroom so they can be seen from both sides.

Walk-in closets - Walk-ins are almost required in new homes today, but the luxury market has taken them to a whole new level with the addition of extravagant cabinetry and center islands with storage drawers.

Outside

Outdoor kitchens - More and more homeowners are taking their cooking and entertaining out back with the addition of fully functional kitchens that include grills, custom cabinets and worktops, and even wood-fired ovens.

Heated patios - An emerging trend in cooler climates, radiant-heated patios and driveways melt snow and ice and keep walkways safe.

Whether you are thinking of selling soon, or simply want to enjoy the benefit of upgrading your home while you're still living there, these affordable luxury trends are certain to hold their appeal for years to come.

Consumer Tip: Home Mortgage Interest

2007-12-28T15:10:00.001-08:00

You can save thousands of dollars in interest on your home, and pay it off in much less than the term of the loan, by just paying a little extra with each monthly payment. For example, if you had a home mortgage of $100,000, payable at 7% per annum interest, by paying just an extra $110 monthly toward the principal, you would save $53,439 in interest payments over the life of the loan. You would save thousands of dollars, and would own your home, free and clear, in just 20 years.

If you would like to pay a little extra on your loan principal monthly, and want to know how much you could save, call The Davidson Team. We will run an amortization schedule for you and/or refer you to our preferred mortgage specialist.

Have an outstanding weekend!

Thought Provoking

2007-12-28T15:05:00.001-08:00

An elderly carpenter was ready to retire. He told his employer of his plans to leave the house building business and live a more leisurely life with his wife. He would miss the paycheck, but he needed to retire. They weren't wealthy, but they could get by.

The contractor was sorry to see his good worker go and asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favor. The carpenter said yes, but in time it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work. He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end his career.

When the carpenter finished his work and the builder came to inspect the house, the contractor handed the front door keys to the carpenter. "This is your house," he said, "my gift to you for your many years as a faithful employee."

What a shock! What a shame! If he had only known he was building his own house, he would have done it all so differently. Now he had to live in a home he had built none too well.

So it is with us. We build our lives in a distracted way, reacting rather than acting, willing to accept less than the best. At important points we don't give the job our best effort. Then with a shock we look at the situation we have created and find that we are now living in a house we have built none too well. If we had only realized, we could have done it so differently.

Think of yourself as a carpenter. Think of life as a house. Each day you hammer a nail, place a board, or erect a wall. Build wisely. It is the only life you will ever build. Even if you live it for only one more day, that day deserves to be lived graciously and with dignity. Without doubt, life is a do-it-yourself project.

Who could say it more clearly? Your life is a result of the attitudes you formed and choices you made in the past. Your life tomorrow will be the result of the attitudes you form and the choices you make today.

Home Inspection

2007-12-28T15:03:00.001-08:00

Most clients ask for a home inspection of their potential new house. If you decided to list with The Davidson Team, we provide a free home inspection as a part of our services. Additionally, wealso provide tips on how to gain the most out of the inspections.

When deciding on a home inspector, first be sure they are experienced and reputable. Once the inspection is completed, we can review the results to understand the current condition of the property and how that may influence your interest in making an offer as well as determining an initial offer price. For example, you may discover that you'll need to replace or repair major systems and components, or that the property maintenance costs are more that you had in mind.

This is the added value a good agent can bring to your home buying process. There are so many things to consider when you shop for your new home. IWed be happy to share our expertise to ensure that this experience will be rewarding and hassle free.

Here's some additional tips:

1. Find out how much it will cost to maintain the property. 2. Obtain bids from certain contractors (plumber, roofer, electrician or drainage expert) who may need to look at the property before giving estimates. 3. Find out if the seller has had contractors work on the property. They may be able to provide you with information about future maintenance costs. 4. Discover from the previous owners what routine maintenance chores they took care of during their term of ownership. 5. When was the last time the roof gutters were cleaned? 6. Obtain names and numbers of craftsmen previous owners utilized.

We hope you find this info useful!

Vacation Homes

2007-12-28T15:01:00.001-08:00

It may hit you every year about this time as you schedule your annual family trip to the coast or other favorite vacation spot. "Wouldn't it be great if we owned our own beach home (or condo or ski chalet)? Instead of paying rent to someone else, we'd be paying ourselves." Well, if you decide to refinance and spend the money on a vacation home, here are some tips to consider.

The 17-week formula

How do you know if you can afford a vacation home -- even with the help of renters? Estimate that one peak-week rental fee should be enough -- and hopefully more than enough -- to pay the home's monthly mortgage if you finance your purchase. For example, if you borrow $300,000 at 5.5 percent for 30 years on your beach cottage, your monthly house payment would be $1,703.36. That should be your minimum weekly peak-rate rental fee. If you don't think you can charge that much for rent, don't buy. However, if you can be reasonably sure of renting your home for at least 17 weeks a year, you should break even. Most owners can count on 12 peak rental weeks each year. Those 12 weeks each year should pay the annual mortgage. Five additional weeks of non-peak rental income usually enable owners to cover taxes, cleaning and maintenance expenses, and other incidentals.

Call The Davidson Team if you are looking to invest into a vacation home. We'd be happy to make sure you land the best deal possible!

Organize Your Home: Part 2

2007-12-20T13:11:00.001-08:00

In our last post, we defined clutter as anything that is out of place, broken, unused or just something you really dislike. Today we are going to start in one small place (a closet or junk drawer will do nicely) and put things in order!

First, you will need 4 cardboard boxes and a large trash can. Label the boxes as follows:
MementosPut away Fix Set Free

The trash can. You will find plenty of stuff that is absolutely unusable. Be ruthless.

Mementos. Set an alarm clock to go off in 1-2 hours. You don't want to overdo things! Open the closet or junk drawer and select the first object. Now we will use the four definitions of clutter to help us decide which box to use for each item.

The Put Away box. Anything goes in here that is out of place and would be better off in a more convenient location. As soon as the alarm clock goes off you will take 10 minutes or so to put all the items in this box where they really belong.

The Fix box. If the item is damaged or missing a part, but you are certain you would use it regularly if repaired, put it in this box. Objects can only reside in the fix box for one week before they have to change residence! If you do not repair the item by week's end it must go into the *Set Free* box.

The Set Free box. This box will hold items that you dislike, things you haven't used in more than a year, orphaned gifts from friends and family (when you said, "Oh, you really shouldn't have!"), things that still have some good use in them, things that will surely fit again someday. This box will go in the trunk of the car. You will take the box to a local resale store or to a charity center. Many charities will even pick up this stuff at your front door,what convenience! You will be doing a good thing, since someone will be getting some good out of these items right now.

The Mementos box. This one can be a bit tricky. It's for things that have true sentimental or family heirloom value. You will want to invest in a cedar chest or other similar sized permanent storage unit. The items from this box will go into that permanent storage. But remember, that cedar heirloom chest will fill up rapidly if you are too casual about what's an heirloom. Consider passing on some of these things to extended family members right now, don't wait 20 years!

Now you are one closet closer to having a serene, uncluttered home!

Organize Your Home: Part 1

2007-12-20T13:08:00.001-08:00

In the next two posts we will share some great tips on how to de-clutter and organize your home.

The first step in winning the Clutter War is to de-bug your own mind! Most of us don't recognize clutter when it falls out of the closet onto our heads, so how in the world will we conquer it? Let's start by defining what clutter is. Clutter is anything in your home:

* That is out of place

* That is broken

* That you have not used or worn in more than a year

* That you dislike

Now don't panic! We won't be telling you to throw everything away that falls within the above definition of clutter. BUT, once you get a clear picture in your head of what constitutes clutter you will be better able to deal with it. In the next installment we start in one small place to give you some practice in sorting through all that clutter.

Curb Appeal

2007-12-20T13:06:00.001-08:00

Today we want to share some simple ways that you can improve the curb appeal of your home. Curb appeal is something every homeowner needs!

Walk across the street and look at your overall landscape.

Are shrubs trimmed neatly?

Windows and doors should not be overshadowed by overgrown bushes.

Clear your entry, sidewalk, and plant beds of leaves and debris.

Add a new layer of attractive mulch to all planting areas.

Are there bare spots or weeds in the lawn? Your local garden supplier can tell you the best way to remedy this problem.

Hardscape (bird feeders or houses, simple water features, statuary) can add warmth and character to an otherwise drab terrain.

Don't forget to call The Davidson Team with any real estate questions you may have, and remember to tell your friends about us!

Home Decorating

2007-12-20T13:01:00.001-08:00

One of the joys of owning your own home is having the freedom to decorate a room to please yourself. The only problem is, most of us don't even know where to start! Here are some simple tips on re-arranging a room that can make the difference between "okay" and "wow" whether it be from a friend of a potential home buyer.

Before you start your room re-arrangement, consider emptying the room completely. Take down all the wall décor and remove any rugs. Now, look at the room as if you are seeing it for the first time. Also consider what activities you want to take place in the room. Let form follow function.

The number one mistake people make is to push all the furniture back against the walls of a den or living room. This makes conversation difficult and creates a walkway through the middle of the conversation area. Try pulling your furniture out into the room into a cozy grouping for conversation. Experiment with placing the seating group at an angle instead of neatly lined up with the walls. A rug and a coffee table can anchor the seating group so that it looks like it "belongs" in the center of the room.

Instead of spreading out your wall hangings along the walls, try grouping several pieces together for stronger impact. Also, it is easier to create "random" groupings than symmetrical designs which require careful measuring and spacing.

Now that your furniture isn't lining the walls you can add depth to your wall décor by creating three dimensional groupings. If you have a grouping of pictures or accessories on the wall, try placing a small table or chest below them. Dress the table top with 2 or 3 favorite objects of varying heights to add dimension.

The Davidson Team hopes you find these tips helpful, and don't forget, if you have any real estate questions, we're just a phone call or email away!

What You Don't Know CAN Hurt You!

2007-12-20T12:59:00.001-08:00

· What is the difference between assessed value and market value?· Do you need a cancellation clause? · What is a chattel mortgage?· Is a housing expense ratio important?

These are just a few of the things that can trip you up when you venture into the world of buying and selling real estate. In today's real estate market, what you don't know can hurt you! Lack of experience can be very costly, as many do-it-yourselfers and For Sale By Owners have discovered too late.

Whether you are buying or selling real estate, an educated, consultative real estate professional can save you money and precious time. The Davidson Team can steer you through the unknown waters of the real estate market and land you safely at the front door of your new home!

Dos and Don'ts of Watering Your Lawn

2007-12-20T12:56:00.000-08:00

The start of the warm season has definitely started as marked by yesterday's beautiful 70 degree day. We love this season in North Central Washington because of all the recreational activities in the nearby hills, mountains, lakes and rivers.

Another joy of the warm season if you are a homeowner is getting to sit back and admire that lovely emerald green stretch of lawn in your front yard. Of course, before you sit back and admire you have to bend over and use a little elbow grease.

Some people work harder than they have to in order to have a beautiful lawn. Grass is pretty tough. If you give it the right growing conditions your grass will defend itself from most weeds and diseases. One of the main mistakes people make is when and how to water the lawn. Here are some watering tips that will help your lawn be strong and healthy.

DO water every 5-6 days during the warm season.
DO water early in the morning.
DO set sprinkler water spray close to the ground, not in high arcs.
DO soak the area for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
DON'T water during the heat of the day (you lose 1/3 of the water to evaporation).
DON'T over-water as you will lose nutrients and encourage rot and disease.
DON'T water too frequently, as it encourages shallow roots and weak grass.

If you have any questions about selling or buying a home, please feel free to contact The Davidson Team at any time.

The MLS - How It Can Help You!

2007-12-20T12:51:00.001-08:00

The Davidson Team would like to tell you about a home seller's/buyer's greatest tool, the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Think of it as a huge catalog that markets and sells homes. Agents can punch in a buyer's specifications and preferences, along with the amount they are willing to spend and, viola! - A complete listing of all homes fitting that criteria magically appear!

Think about this: If you were going to make a large purchase, let's say a car, would you rather spend weeks checking the classifieds and driving all over town to see one car here and one car there? Or would you decide what you are looking for in a car and then go to the largest and most reputable dealer in town to compare several cars at once? The vast majority of folks would rather buy from a reputable, well-stocked dealer. It's the same with real estate. We can offer you several advantages in marketing your home, but the main advantage is SCORES OF QUALIFIED PROSPECTIVE BUYERS. The more people who see your home, the better your chances of selling it at a good price, quickly. That is why the very first thing I do when I list your home is to put it into the MLS...in addition to effectively implementing a Customer Marketing Plan just for your property. Click below to learn more!

http://www.wenatcheehouses.com/marketing_plan.php

If you are thinking about selling, click here http://www.wenatcheehouses.com/home_worth.php and you'll receive a FREE comparative market analysis (CMA) based on research from the MLS and our extensive knowledge of the North Central Washington real estate market. Additionally if you'd like, we'll can set up an appointment to present how our Custom Marketing Plan will differentiate you! Not looking to sell right now? No worries, this is a FREE service and knowing the value of your home is essential part of home ownership.

If you are thinking about buying, click here http://www.wenatcheehouses.com/email_home_listings.php to take advantage of our Exclusive Buyer System. This system will help you beat out other buyers to hot new homes and properties as they come on the market. No more wasted time looking at out-dated information in HomeFinders, newspapers or searching the Internet. Priority email notifications means you're there first before other buyers, so you can negotiate the lowest possible price and your time is not wasted viewing homes that don't interest you.

Tax Appraisal Value of Homes

2007-12-20T12:44:00.003-08:00

Don't you just love it when tax appraisal time comes around? You never know what you're going to get! As real estate professionals, we're often amused that the tax appraisal value of homes can go up even while the actual selling price of homes may go down. Kind of makes you wonder what criteria the bureaucrats are using when they value our homes.

This is the reason why buyers shouldn't get carried away just because a house is being offered at *10,000 below tax appraisal!!!* That tax appraisal may not be in harmony with the actual market price of the house in question. When buying or selling, market value is the real deciding factor. Where the real estate market is concerned, a home is worth exactly as much as the most eager buyer is willing to pay.

As real estate professionals, The Davidson Team can provide a comparative market evaluation (free, of course!) on your property, taking into consideration all of the comparable property sales in your market area and factoring in the things that make your home unique. This helps us to set the price of your property at the right place, and positions you to realize the greatest profit in the least amount of time.

Even if you are not currently thinking about selling your home, it is useful to have a comparative market evaluation prepared. And when it's free, with no obligation, why not take advantage of it?

Loans and Refinancing - What you need to know

2007-12-20T12:44:00.001-08:00

Many potential customers simply call lenders up and ask, "What's your rate?" But they fail to indicate what kind of loan they need, how long of a lock period they want, how many discount points they're willing to pay, how long the rate is good for, or anything else. Consumers have to specify all of these things or lenders can pretty much say whatever they want, and then provide different figures when the customers come in and blame the lack of specificity.

A loan with a lock period of just 15 days, for instance, usually has a lower rate than one that a consumer can lock in for 60 days. Most consumers opt for loans with longer locks because they need more than two weeks to close. But loan officers sometimes quote rates on their shortest-lock loans over the phone or in print just to sound cheap, knowing full well that many callers will never be able to obtain those loans. Companies can provide rates that include several points to look better, even though many customers either can't or don't want to put down several thousand extra dollars at closing.

More about Loans and Refinancing Figure in the feesBorrowers often forget to ask about fees, and don't compare lenders based on those costs. That allows companies to pad their bottom lines by adding "document preparation fees," "underwriting fees" and other miscellaneous charges to the loan at closing. Lenders don't control certain fees for services provided by third parties, such as title searches and appraisals. But they can adjust their own fees, so consumers who know to do so will negotiate.

Don't believe everything you readConsumers need to watch out for advertising tricks, too. Companies have been plugging "no cost" refinance loans lately, but the tagline really means "no out-of-pocket costs at closing." Borrowers pay higher rates on these mortgages and lenders use the extra money to pay the costs themselves.

The annual percentage rate, or APR, found in advertisements can be misleading as well. Mortgage lenders don't always include all the fees they charge in the calculation that determines APR, so customers who use that figure to shop rather than an itemized breakdown of rates, points and fees may end up comparing apples to oranges. Of course, it's difficult for borrowers to compare fees when they don't know what they are. By law, lenders and brokers don't have to give what's called the Good Faith Estimate document to customers until three days after they apply. But there's nothing preventing shoppers from asking for it before committing to anything. Reputable lenders and brokers will provide one.

If you have any questions about loans and refinancing, we'd be happy to talk with you and even suggest one of our well trusted lenders.

When Should I Put My Home On The Market?

2007-12-19T11:59:00.001-08:00

There is no "best" time to sell per se. Selling a house depends on supply, demand and other economic factors. But the time of year in which you choose to sell can make a difference both in the amount of time it takes to sell your home and in the ultimate selling price. Weather conditions are less of a consideration in more temperate climates, but most of the time, the real estate market picks up as early as February, with the strongest selling season usually lasting through May and June.

With the onset of summer, the market slows. July is often the slowest month for real estate sales due to a strong spring market putting possible upward pressure on interest rates. Also, many prospective homebuyers and their agents take vacations during mid-summer.

Following the summer slowdown, real estate sales activity tends to pick up for a second, although less vigorous, fall market, which usually lasts into November when the market slows again as buyers and sellers turn their attention to the holidays.

If this makes you wonder if you should take your home off the market for the holidays, consider the advice of veteran agents: You are always more likely to sell your house if it is available to show to prospective buyers continuously.

Would discovering the length of time it might take to sell your house help in your planning process?

As Realtors, The Davidson Team can easily obtain information from our Multiple Listing Service (MLS) showing average time on the market from the time a house was listed to when an offer is accepted. Another factor to consider is the time involved between when an offer is accepted and when the transaction actually closes.

We would be happy to schedule a time to provide any information we can that would make the selling of your home a hassle free transaction. Don't hesitate to email or phone us anytime!

Contigent Sales Offer

2007-12-19T11:57:00.001-08:00

While you may be focused on the important first steps for getting your home ready for sale, it's a good idea to look ahead to other decisions in the transaction once purchase and sale agreements have been signed. For example, whether or not to accept a contingent sale offer can depend on activity in the local market and your own particular situation, among other factors.

What is a contingent sale offer? It's an offer made subject to the sale for the buyer's property. If the buyer's property doesn't sell, the buyer isn't obligated to complete the purchase. Repeat buyers, unlike first-time buyers, often have to sell their existing home so they can afford to buy another home. Some repeat buyers sell their home first and then buy. But others find it difficult to let go of their current home until they know for sure where they'll live next. An experienced agent will help you navigate the contingent sale offer.

When you're ready to sell your home, we can talk through all the steps in the home selling process and do some planning to ensure that your home sale is as hassle-free as possible.

Handling A Contingent Sales Offer

Find out as much as you can about the buyer' property before deciding whether or not to accept the offer. If it's already on the market, have your agent ask the buyer's listing agent how much activity they're getting from interested buyers.

The buyer's home may not yet be on the market when they make their offer. If so, and you want to work with the offer, make sure your purchase contract includes a provision for the buyer to multiple-list their home within several days of contact acceptance. You may also want your agent to have the right to approve of the list price of the buyer's home.

Make sure that your contract with a contingent sale buyer specifies two time frames: one for the buyer's property to sell (say 30 to 60 days) and another for closing the sale. Often contingent sales offers don't specify a time period for the buyers to find a buyer for their home. Without this provision, you could find out the day before closing is supposed to occur that the buyers still haven't sold their home.

Don't hesitate to call or email The Davison Team with any questions!

Pre-Approved Buyers

2007-12-19T11:54:00.001-08:00

Knowing where to spend your time between pre-approved and pre-qualified buyers is key to saving you time and maximizing your home sale. A successful agent ensures that you are talking to pre-approved buyers. Why? Because pre-approved buyers have the financial backing to make an offer today and can save you time in the home selling process.

An offer from a pre-approved buyer can save days or even weeks off the closing process. If you are purchasing other property, this can result in huge savings, both in dollars and in aggravation and hassle.

When we assist sellers, we ensure we are dealing with offers from pre-approved buyers.

Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval

A pre-qualified buyer has a potential lender who has determined how much he/she can borrow based only on information he/she has provided to the lender. No one has done the required verification to determine the buyer's true credit worthiness. This buyer still must fill out a loan application and go through the lender's approval process at a later date.

A pre-approved buyer has already secured funding from a lender. The lender has conducted a credit check and verification of employment and deposit. The lender's pre-approval is actually a commitment to lend the buyer up to a pre-determined amount.

Call or email The Davidson Team if we can be of any assistance!

Thinking About Making A Move?

2007-12-19T11:52:00.001-08:00

There are many factors to consider when you are contemplating making a move. Price is one of the most important.

Another factor to consider is when to sell. The decision about when to put your home on the market is usually determined by when you want or need to move. Once you have decided on a move date, we can analyze the approximate time your home should take to sell by looking at the average time on the market for comparable homes in your price range. The Davidson Team would be happy to gather that information for you when you are ready.

When you do decide to sell, you'll want to view your home through the eyes of a potential buyer. Some points of consideration are:

* Is your home in 'show shape'? * Are there repairs that need to be made?* Does the paint need a bit of touching up?

If you would like, we can take a quick tour of your home and suggest some simple ways to prepare your home for the market.

Proper pricing and a home that is in 'show shape' will eliminate some of the hassles and help sell your home faster, maximizing your time and profits.

Please feel free to call or email The Davidson Team. We will be happy to provide you with valuable information so you can feel comfortable with the process and make an informed decision about when you want to move.