Home4Investment Real Estate Team - Ben Kinney: July 2007

Mount Vernon commercial real estate will help any business flourish.  As Skagit County's seat and largest city, the town automatically has thousands of customers at hand.  Additionally, its convenient location off of I-5 allows it to attract hundreds of thousands of more customers each year. 

One area that draws much of Mount Vernon's business, making it some of the most valuable Mount Vernon commercial real estate, is downtown.  Over a century year old, the neighborhood boasts a unique, classic charm.  Small roads and dense, adorable buildings are perfect for local shops and restaurants.  Throughout the year, pedestrians walk downtown and peruse stores, appreciating the small-town atmosphere.  This unique Mount Vernon commercial real estate is in high demand, and it usually sells as quickly as it is put on the market.

In 2006, the City of Mount Vernon implemented a plan to make downtown and the waterfront even better.  This plan intends to safeguard downtown from any flooding damage it has experienced in the past.  This should further stabilize and increase the value of the already popular Mount Vernon commercial real estate. 

Downtown is not the only hot spot for Mount Vernon commercial real estate, of course.  Busy I-5 conveniently runs directly through the city, guiding many resting drivers to restaurants, gas stations, and shops located on Mount Vernon commercial real estate.  Many of these desirable lots and buildings are visible directly from the freeway, providing, in essence, free marketing to the millions of I-5 drivers every year.

Much of the Mount Vernon commercial real estate off I-5 is located directly in areas zoned for urban growth.  The city is encouraging development in these areas, so business owners should encounter little difficulty when opening a business in this district.  The layout of the city also draws many locals to these areas as well as commuters, thus ensuring a consistent and growing customer base.

Though business is steady throughout the year, it explodes every spring.  The Mount Vernon Tulip Festival draws visitors from around the Pacific Northwest.  In addition to taking in the beautiful fields of tulips, these guests pack all the Mount Vernon commercial real estate districts, especially those with local restaurants, clothing stores, book shops, and more.  Certain businesses do so well during April that the season can cancel out even the slowest other 11 months.  Few other small towns boast such an influx of visitors, and businesses on Mount Vernon commercial real estate benefit greatly from the festival.

To learn more about the many Mount Vernon real estate opportunities, contact the Home4Investment real estate team!

The Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival is quickly approaching!  This annual event in Blaine, Washington combines the exciting Drayton Harbor Days and Oar Musical Festival to create two fun, action-packed days on August 4 ^th and 5^th.  The Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival kicks off at 9:00 AM on Saturday and continues until 5:00 Sunday evening.  Activities are located in Blaine Harbor, downtown, and at the Peace Arch Park.

Blaine Marina hosts many of the Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival's attractions.  All weekend, vintage steamboats will be tethered at the docks for anyone to admire.  There, boat enthusiasts and casual admirers alike can learn more nautical history.   Clever shoppers will also enjoy the Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival's Swap Meet held at Blaine Harbor all weekend.  The Blaine Marina's third main event is the Prestigious George Raft Race.  This well-loved race takes place at noon on Saturday, August 4^th.  

Downtown Blaine also boasts a number of Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival's activities.  From 10 AM to 4 PM on both days, visitors can find an Arts and Crafts Fair, Kids' Games, and Sidewalk Sales.  Saturday boasts the most events, including the Motorcycle Show and Shine from noon to 3 PM and Music of the Sea (live sea shanty music) from 11 AM to 3 PM.   

The Peace Arch Park, that beautiful plot of land drivers see when crossing between Canada and the United States, is also home of many events, most notably the music portion of the Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival.   Starting at 4 PM on August 4^th, visitors can sing along to Sea Shanties with the Vancouver Folk Song Society.  After that, several musical guests, including the Sometimes Sound Singers, Bellingham Norwegian Male Chorus, Chris Roe, Stan James, and many more will take part in the One Oar Sea Music Festival (which recently merged with the Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival).

Affordable and fun, the Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival is the perfect place to take the family on August 4^th and 5^th.   To learn more, visit the Blaine City Guide

The Northwest Washington Fair has livened up Lynden, Washington every year for nearly a century.  For one week every August, the town's fairgrounds bustle with concerts, vendors, exhibits, and almost 200,000 visitors.

This year, the Northwest Washington Fair will begin on Monday, August 13^th and end on Saturday, August 18^th.   Everyday, the Northwest Washington Fair boasts an exciting main event:

On Monday, the Northwest Washington Fair will be hosting the ever-popular Demolition Derby.  Take advantage of the free event at 1:00, or pay $13 to check out the derby at 7:00 that night.

Tuesday, REO Speedwagon will perform its many hits from the 1970's and 80's, as well as some new songs.  As with most concerts at the Northwest Washington Fair, the show begins at 8:00 PM.  Tickets are $25 or $30 for individual seats.

Wednesday, rock guitarist and conservative activist Ted Nugent will put on his always fun and raucous show.  Tickets for the show are $25. 

On Thursday, contemporary Christian band Third Day will perform at the Northwest Washington Fair.  Concertgoers who arrive early may find free seats available in the grandstand, and individual seats are $22 each.

Friday, the country-rock Charlie Daniels Band will be featured at the Northwest Washington Fair.  Charlie Daniels may perform anything from his hits written for Elvis Presley in the 1950's to their more recent songs.   Tickets start at $25.

On Saturday, Clay Walker and George Daniels will put on a double concert at 7:00 PM to bring the Northwest Washington Fair to a close.   Tickets to see these well-known concert singers start are $22, but limited free seating is available.

Throughout the week, visitors can attend any one of the ten horse shows for free.  These occur at 1:00 Tuesday through Saturday as well as 6:00 Tuesday through Friday.   Also, on Friday, visitors can see the 5:00 Draft Horse Pull for free.

All events require fair admission, but concertgoers can take advantage of much more than the main events once inside the gates.   Children will love the carnival rides, farm animals, and games, while parents can enjoy the many vendors and art shows.  Everyone, of course, can take advantage of the wonderful fair food.   (Don't forget the famous "moowich"!)

Visitors from far and wide attend the Northwest Washington Fair year after year.  Come join the fun!  For more information on Whatcom County and Bellingham Events visit the Bellingham City Guide

Blaine condominiums offer deluxe living at an affordable price.  Boasting direct beach access, majestic views, and open, spacious designs, Blaine condominiums truly have it all.

Most Blaine condominiums are built on sparkling Birch Bay.  Constructed anywhere from the late 1970's to today, the condos come in a number of different styles and prices.   Almost all of these Blaine condominiums have a direct view of colorful sunsets, the peaceful Birch Bay waves, and the area's thriving sea wildlife.  (Harbor seals are especially fond of frequenting Birch Bay.) 

Many of these Blaine condominiums are just seconds from the beach.  Residents can take a quick peek out of their sliding glass door to determine whether shoes are necessary for that day, and take a stroll directly onto the warm, sandy beach.   A few miles south, thousands of people pay money to have that same experience at Birch Bay State Park.  Blaine condominium residents never get tired of the quick, beach access; for them, everyday is like a vacation.

Another group of Blaine condominiums can be found at the Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club.  These homeowners are some of the few in the nation that can brag about having a golf course in their own backyard.   Their beautiful surroundings are reflected in the gorgeous homes.  Enormous floorplans, magnificent landscaping, and the finest interiors break the typical condominium stereotype.

Even more Blaine condominiums are located on Drayton Harbor, only a few miles from the Canadian border.  Built largely in the last year or two, these Blaine condos have the most up-to-date designs and technology.  Plus, they are only minutes away from I-5, perfect for commuters heading north to Canada or south to Bellingham.  These homes offer both the perks of waterfront living and convenience of everyday amenities.

In addition to the many benefits of living in lovely Blaine, maintaining a condo is significantly cheaper and easier than maintaining a single-family home.   Owners of Blaine condominiums do not have to spend time caring for a lawn or replacing roofs.  Instead, they take advantage of Blaine many parks and public spaces and share responsibility of the building with their neighbors.

Also, an increasing number of homeowners are putting in the time and care to make Blaine condominiums more than a starter house or vacation spot.   Instead, they are lifelong homes.  Today more than ever, condos boast gorgeous interior designs, well-planned layouts, and incredible quality.   Since many Blaine condominiums were constructed in the last few years, they also have the newest technology and rarely need any costly improvements.

As Washington waterfront property becomes scarcer and the city's economy continues to grow, Blaine condominiums are likely to become even more desirable.   To learn more about these amazing Blaine real estate opportunities, contact Whatcom County's very own Home4Investment team.

Ferndale real estate has something for everyone.  Whether you are looking for the perfect house to raise a family, commercial space to start a company, or undeveloped land to build your perfect retirement home, be sure to check out Ferndale real estate.

The Ferndale real estate market is filled with great deals on homes.  Smart developers are on top of Ferndale 's growing economy and population, and they have constructed quality houses and condominiums throughout the town.  Much of the area's farmland has been converted to other uses, freeing up space to make these new homes spacious, open, and some of the hottest items in Ferndale's real estate market (not to mention the entire region's).

The town's homes are popular for other reasons besides their spaciousness, too; the location is also excellent.   Directly off of Interstate 5, only six miles north of Bellingham, and an hour south of Vancouver, British Columbia, Ferndale real estate is perfect for those who enjoy the small town atmosphere but want all the bigger cities' amenities.   Its quick commute from larger towns helps maintain the affordability of Ferndale real estate, though more and more people are discovering the gem. 

Of course, Ferndale real estate is by no means dependant on the surrounding areas.  Founded in 1907, the town has a rich history all its own.   The unique and diverse styles of Ferndale real estate are evidence of its distinctive and independent character.  The city has started putting its "Downtown Revitalization Plan" into action, promising immediate and impressive results.   Many residents already do all their shopping, playing, and working in town, and the trend will continue as Ferndale keeps developing.  .

For these reasons, more businesses than ever are investing in Ferndale real estate.  The increase of restaurants and stores (both downtown and elsewhere) has motivated many residents to spend their money locally, and even more of these spots are in demand.   Commercial real estate and business opportunities continue to be solid investments.

Additionally, lots and acreage are available to those looking to construct custom-built stores, offices, or homes.   The relatively large amount of open space provides the Ferndale real estate market with many choices.  Affordable, undeveloped land make it possible for buyers to build their dream home for the same amount they could purchase a less impressive house in Bellingham, just five minutes away.

Purchasing any type of Ferndale real estate is a smart investment.  With the economy on the rise and an ever-increasing population, real estate is guaranteed to increase in value.   To learn more about the many Ferndale real estate opportunities, contact Whatcom County's very own Home4Investment real estate team.

New Ferndale homes offer some of the finest living in the region.  Wide, open spaces and sturdy construction leave residents of these new Ferndale homes feeling much more comfortable than they would in the surrounding towns' crowded developments. 

As the town expands to accommodate new jobs and a growing population, new Ferndale homes are popping up in every neighborhood.   For example, more and more new Ferndale homes are being built near Main Street and the recently revitalized downtown area.  These commercial hubs include quality homes within walking distance of the town's many conveniences.   Some residents are even fortunate enough to be just seconds from their jobs!

Several new Ferndale homes have been constructed just north of beautiful Hovander Park.    Landscaped yards, spacious sidewalks, and quiet cul-de-sacs make these neighborhoods the ideal place to come home to after a hard days work.  The close-nit community helps everyone, out-of-staters and in-town upgraders alike, feel welcome in their new Ferndale homes.

Other new Ferndale homes can be found in tranquil, rural spots throughout town.  Often built on several acres, these new homes boast the latest designs and technology while encouraging the slow, peaceful living often sacrificed by modern developments.   Additionally, these gorgeous, new Ferndale homes are only minutes from the town's amenities.  Residents of these houses truly have the best of all worlds.

On the whole, there are a number of benefits to buying a new Ferndale home rather than an older one.  As with any recently-constructed house, new Ferndale homes require far fewer repairs than others would.  Without having to spend thousands on a new roof, plumbing problems, or putting in better carpet, homeowners can spend their money as they choose; imagine how many fresh raspberries you could buy with the money others spend remodeling their kitchen!   (Whatcom County, by the way, grows 75% of the nation's raspberries.)

Whether it's for convenience, relaxation, or affordability, new Ferndale homes are always a great purchase.  To learn more about Ferndale Real Estate, contact the Home4Investment real estate team!

Ferndale homes come in every size, age, and style, and the variety of houses fit perfectly into the friendly, century-old town.   Ferndale boasts a rich history and a developing economy that provides thousands of jobs, good schools, and some of the finest living in the region.

As the town's population grows and farming becomes more efficient, more land has been converted to residential neighborhoods.   Thus, neighborhoods constructed in the past few years account for a significant percentage of Ferndale homes.  Most of these developments consist of quiet, tree-lined streets and sturdily constructed single-family houses.   Unlike new neighborhoods in many other towns, these Ferndale homes typically maintain unique styles and spacious yards.

Most Ferndale homes are built bigger and come with larger yards than those found in other Whatcom County cities.   Gardeners, horse lovers, and backyard-baseball-players delight in the open space accompanying a majority of Ferndale homes.  Some of the newer Ferndale homes are built on smaller lots due to recent regulations, but even those are typically within walking or short driving distance to public parks or schools.  

Ferndale homes happen to be some of the most affordable in the region, too.  Comparable homes in surrounding cities - Bellingham in particular - are typically tens to hundreds of thousands dollars more, and they often sacrifice the close-nit neighborhood feel.  As the county continues to grow, Ferndale homes are likely to become more expensive, but they are currently some of the best bargains north of Seattle.

Some of the most popular Ferndale homes are constructed just north of beautiful Hovander Park.  These homes were built anywhere from the late 1960's today, offering a variety of styles and prices to choose from.   This neighborhood is largely dominated by growing families.  The quiet cul-de-sacs are perfect for children, and commuters love the quick drive to (and on) I-5.

Other Ferndale homes are built well outside of developed neighborhoods.  These houses often boast gorgeous mountain views, acres of land, and desirable rural tranquility.   While these Ferndale homes may feel miles away from civilization, they are actually only a few minutes from grocery stores, schools, and bustling commercial areas.      

Whether you are looking for an enormous house with the most modern technology or a classic, 2-bedroom rambler, you can find a Ferndale home with everything you need.   To learn more about Ferndale homes or to search for Ferndale Real Estate, contact Whatcom County's very own Home4Investment team.

La Conner hotels are more than just a place to sleep; they're an experience to be had.  La Conner hotels reflect the unique atmosphere of the town itself, providing a place to relax, rejuvenate, and have fun.   Here a few of the many great La Conner hotels:

The Hotel Planter is a historic inn located right in the heart of downtown La Conner.   Its excellent location, private courtyard, and beautifully furnished rooms attract customers to this La Conner hotel, and the friendly, intimate atmosphere (the hotel only has 12 rooms!) inspires guests to return again and again.   (Hotelplanter.com, 800.488.5409)

The Wild Iris Inn has a tranquil, cozy environment that guests love.   Only a few blocks from the Swinomish Channel and La Conner's wonderful, local shopping, this La Conner hotel is convenient to the best the town has to offer.  The Wild Iris Inn has won several awards for its excellence, and it is recommended by several national guides, so be sure to make a reservation!  (Wildiris.com, 800.477.1400 )

The La Conner Channel Lodge is the only waterfront La Conner hotel.   Most of its 40 rooms boast balconies and views, making the best of its fantastic location.  Cute, affordable, and convenient, this La Conner hotel is a favorite of many.    (Laconnerlodging.com, 360.466.1500)

The Tillinghast Manor Inn is a little-known yet wonderful La Conner hotel.   Located four short blocks from downtown, it is perfect for those looking to escape the hectic daily routine of the "real world."  (360.466.3144)

The Heron Inn and Watergrass Day Spa boasts friendly service and a personal experience, almost as if it were a bed and breakfast.   The twelve suites are magnificent, many including fireplaces and jetted tubs.  Vacationing guests can relax in the spa, take a stroll through downtown, or simply enjoy the privacy and luxury of this high-end La Conner hotel.   (Theheron.com, 877.466.4626)

Plan ahead when traveling to La Conner, since lodging tends to fill up fast!

La Conner festivals draw thousands to the small, artsy town every year.  These range from year-long events to quick, jam-packed weekends of fun.

The annual Tulip Festival is world-renowned.  Flower experts and novices alike flood this La Conner festival every April to absorb fields upon fields of bright colors and fragrances.   Visitors who are looking for a free weekend of entertainment can watch the parade, participate in the basketball tournament, and meet local artists as they display their works.   Those who are willing to spend money at this wonderful La Conner festival can embark on a helicopter ride, relax all evening tasting regional wines, or spend a day on a guided bicycle tour.   Though the flowers bloom at their own accord (sometimes a week into the month), this La Conner festival guarantees entertainment every single day of April.

Every February, the Rotary Club hosts the "world's only Smelt derby", a lively La Conner festival that inspires the many participants to wake up the crack of dawn and compete with others to catch the largest Smelt in the La Conner Channel.   For those not inclined to fish, the La Conner festival also includes 5k and 10k walks, as well as a pancake breakfast for the whole family.  This annual event has gone on for decades, and the fun that ensues every year guarantees that it will continue for years to come.

The Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit is a year-long La Conner festival that displays art from some of the most accomplished artists in the Northwest.   The winners of this competition have their sculptures displayed throughout town for the rest of the year, providing La Conner with an impressive, ever-changing array of public art.   Well-known artists such as Arno Zielke, Phillip Levine, and Pam Hom have their items on display.

La Conner festivals geared toward art do not stop with the exhibit.  In July, the "Skagit Artists Together" tour begins with a weekend of shops, galleries, and individual artists opening their studios to the public.   Visitors can see the workings of the artists' minds as well as many of their completed projects.  To complete the weekend, guests can take advantage of the beautiful La Conner lodging, shopping, and restaurants.

Every September, the La Conner Classic Yacht and Car Show draws hundreds of visitors.  In addition to the main attractions, La Conner festival-goers take advantage of local vendors, restaurants, and outdoor barbecues.   For just a $3 entry fee, families can be entertained for the entire weekend.  Honors are even awarded for guests' favorite boats and cars, ensuring that everyone is involved in this exciting La Conner festival.

Throughout the year, La Conner boasts events of every size and type.  Before you visit, check ahead to see what fun you can expect!

La Conner waterfront homes are magazine cover material.  Unique, well-built, and in one of the state's most desirable locations, La Conner waterfront homes are magnificent.

Some of these incredible La Conner waterfront homes are located right downtown.  These houses boast lovely views of the La Conner Channel and a residence just steps away from the finest shops, restaurants, and galleries in the region.   Owners who prefer to cook on their own often enjoy the same views as some of the fanciest restaurants in town, but on the privacy of their very own deck.   These La Conner waterfront homes truly offer the best of both worlds.

Other La Conner waterfront homes are built with privacy in mind.  Off the beaten path and away from the busyness of everyday life, residents of these La Conner waterfront homes can relax in their own backyard with only the occasional boater as a reminder of civilization.   The area's geography creates many, small peninsulas, reducing traffic and increasing the tranquility of these areas.  Plus, some La Conner waterfront homes are built right on the tip of these peninsulas, surrounding the houses with the fresh seawater and beautiful, panoramic views.

Many La Conner waterfront views rest on bluffs overlooking Puget Sound.  Unlike the jagged, unstable cliffs found in other places of Western Washington, these bluffs typically slope more gently into the water, thus providing a safer environment for homeowners.  The increase in altitude also allows for a far reaching view, great for watching Orcas play in the distance.

Those looking for a house with a private beach or a personal dock can find La Conner waterfront homes with both.   The area's geography creates a variety of coast types.  These include sandy beaches, bluffs, or yards that slope right into Puget Sound or the La Conner Channel.   The latter provides the perfect setting for a private dock, some able to moor boats up to 40 feet long!  Watersports are so popular in the area that some residents travel via kayak or canoe.

Colorful sunsets, quiet neighborhoods, and spectacular views are only a few aspects that make La Conner waterfront homes so amazing.   To learn more about La Conner Real Estate, contact the Home4Investment real estate team.