Home4Investment Real Estate Team - Ben Kinney: August 2007

Anacortes condominiums have been on the forefront of a trend that is now visible throughout the state - for decades, Anacortes condominiums have been designed and constructed as lifelong homes, rather than "starters."   As a result, Anacortes condominums of every age and style are perfect for those looking to live comfortably and affordably.

The average Anacortes condominium is significantly larger than any found in the big city.  Since Anacortes is at no lack of space, few studios can be found in town.   Instead, complexes boast immense one, two, and three-bedroom units.  These range from slightly under 1,000 square feet to well over 2,000.   Many single-family homes in the area are the exact same size, yet cost thousands of dollars more.

Many Anacortes condominiums are directly on the waterfront.  These often include community docks and beaches, and those that don't are literally seconds from public beach access.   The close proximity to the water has many benefits.  Magnificent views are not the least of them; residents love watching the sunset as they eat dinner, and some of the luckiest get to see Orcas play in the bay.   Fresh sea air greets residents of these Anacortes condominiums every morning, and the gentle sounds of the waves lull them to sleep at night.  Owners of these condos get all the joys of waterfront living without the expensive price tag of a single-family home.

Other Anacortes condominiums are located right in the heart of the city.  These provide residents with just about every convenience imaginable.   Within walking distance to shopping, restaurants, and the water, owners of these Anacortes condominiums rarely need a car.  Instead, they live simply; few others can boast a life of no yard work, few home repairs, and a quick stroll to the most attractive beaches in Washington State. 

Nearly all Anacortes condominiums have been constructed in the last 25 years, many of which are just being completed.   As a result, these already low-maintenance homes are even easier to keep up.  These Anacortes condominiums boast spacious layouts, modern appliances, and the most recent technologies.

Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, an investment property, or a home where you can spend your entire life, Anacortes condominiums are a wonderful purchase.   To learn more about Anacortes condominiums, contact the Home4Investment real estate team!

Mount Vernon homes are built with comfortable living in mind.  Houses can be found in every style from one week to one century old, providing buyers with a range of options when considering the increasingly popular Mount Vernon homes.

Mount Vernon homes are some of the most affordable in the region (at least until the rest of the world discover this gem of a town).   Large, 3-bedroom houses are frequently sold in the mid-$300,000 range, and Mount Vernon homes on acreage, the popular Eaglemont Golf Course, or even the beautiful Skagit River do not cost significantly more.   Since it is generally considered too far to commute to Seattle, buyers are relieved of the Seattle-area prices while still having quick access to the many Skagit, Snohomish, and Whatcom County jobs.   Many residents live in Mount Vernon homes and commute 40 minutes to Bellingham, where homes can cost twice as much.

In the past few decades, Mount Vernon homes have largely been developed neighborhoods as a time, rather than lot by lot.   Thus, the town is filled with quiet, close-nit communities, most of which are planned for quick and easy and travel.  Though few of these neighborhoods are within walking distance to shopping, they are peaceful and only a short drive to I-5 and the city's amenities.  

Some of the most luxurious Mount Vernon homes boast a magnificent, panoramic view of Skagit Valley, Puget Sound, the Cascade Mountain Range, and even the Olympic Mountains.  Many of these are located right in town on East Section Street, providing both convenience and deluxe living.

Mount Vernon homes are perfect to raise children in.  The town's large houses usually boast three or more bedrooms, and the low crime rate would make any parent comfortable.   Quiet cul-de-sacs are cherished by kids who can play baseball in the street and parents who can feel safe with their children outside.  Mount Vernon boasts excellent schools, as well as many activities for families (including the world-famous Tulip Festival every spring).

On the whole, Mount Vernon homes are wonderful places to live, as well as solid financial investments.  To learn more, contact the Home4Investment team!

Sedro Woolley homes boast the tranquility of rural living with all the conveniences of the city.  Just minutes away from I-5, Sedro Woolley homes are perfect for commuters as well as parents who want to raise their children in a small, all-American town.

Many Sedro Woolley homes are classics, constructed nearly a century ago.  Owners of these houses have maintained the buildings meticulously and preserved their antique charm.   The turn-of-the-century (not the most recent turn, of course) houses are generally smaller - two and three-bedrooms are most common - and are found in the south side of town.   Most of these Sedro Woolley homes have undergone several renovations, ensuring that residents have access to the latest designs and technology, while still allowing them to live in truly historic houses.

While the classic houses are found throughout the city, over half of Sedro Woolley homes have been built in the last few decades.   As more and more people discover the wonderful town of Sedro-Woolley, developers are constructing more housing.  Many builders purchase large lots and build their customized dream home, complete with separate shops, barns, and acres of land to roam.   Other investors have subdivided larger lots into smaller ones, creating well-organized, quaint neighborhoods.  These often boast quiet cul-de-sacs and loops, reducing traffic and ensuring the serenity of these popular Sedro Woolley homes.

Money goes far in the area.  Sedro Woolley homes are some of the most affordable in the region, even cheaper than comparable houses in nearby Burlington and Mount Vernon.  In fact, relatively small Sedro Woolley homes can sell in the mid-$100,000s, a price unheard of in other cities.  In July 2007 (when this article was written), the median price for a Sedro Woolley home was under $250,000.  Burlington, only a few miles away, was $275,000, and Bellingham, a hot spot for jobs to the north, was nearly $300,000.   Buyers can save tens of thousands of dollars simply by buying a house three minutes from I-5, rather than three seconds.

In essence, Sedro Woolley homes are bargains just waiting to be discovered.  To learn more about the city and its many opportunities, contact the Home4Investment real estate team!

Burlington commercial real estate is already highly sought-after, and as the area's population continues grow, Burlington commercial real estate is likely to become even more desirable.

The town already boasts many shopping destinations, including the Cascade Mall, the Prime Outlets, and several centers developed in the last ten years.  As a result, residents throughout Western Washington associate Burlington with shopping.  Thus, Burlington commercial real estate is quite valuable largely due to its excellent location and essential guarantee to bring in customers.

With I-5 running directly through the city, Burlington commercial real estate is never more than a few minutes from customers' main route.  In fact, some of the most attractive Burlington commercial real estate is visible right from the freeway.  These lots and buildings are generally more expensive than others, but the increased price includes automatic visibility (and thus marketing) to the millions of people who drive I-5 every year.

Other Burlington commercial real estate does not boast such visibility, but it is conveniently located between the freeway exits and the customers' original destination (oftentimes the mall or outlet stores).  As a result, this Burlington commercial real estate is significantly more affordable than other lots, and yet it is still in an incredible, customer-attracting location.

Since many people enter the commercial neighborhoods with shopping in mind, retailers do especially well in the districts.  Burlington commercial real estate conveniently includes enormous lots, great for recent store additions such as the Sportsman's Warehouse and Pier 1 Imports.  Spots near other busy shopping centers help restaurants such as Applebee's and Johnny Carino's thrive.

As more and more Burlington stores continue to succeed, new businesses are wisely investing in Burlington commercial real estate.  Though the competition is increasing, so are the masses of customers.  People are even choosing to shop outside of larger cities such as Bellingham and Everett in order to take advantage of the many shopping options in Burlington.  The area is truly a hub of commercial activity.

To learn more about the many Burlington commercial real estate opportunities, contact the Home4Investment real estate team!

Burlington homes are affordable, unique, and convenient.  The town itself is perfect for raising a family, starting a career, or relaxing for retiring, and the variety of Burlington homes can easily accommodate all of these.

Residents are fortunate to live in one of the few, truly affordable cities north of Seattle.  With a median house price of $275,000 (as of July 2007, the time of this writing), buyers can afford just about any Burlington home, even those tens of thousands of dollars out of their price range in other, nearby cities.

Many Burlington homes boast a rich history and adorable, classic charm.  Incorporated in 1902, one can find Burlington homes built even before the town was officially recognized.  For the most part, homeowners have maintained the houses meticulously, and most of these older homes have been renovated several times.  As a result, these popular and easy-to-find Burlington homes combine the unique style of century-old buildings with the latest technology, designs, and other features.

Of course, the town had to accommodate the ever-increasing population growth somehow, so hundreds of newer Burlington homes can also be found throughout the city.  Usually constructed a few miles outside of the city's commercial hub, these Burlington homes have "tranquility" written all over them.  Some of these gorgeous houses were developed on acres of land right in the majestic Skagit Valley.  Residents can see for miles from their porches, and anyone who has been through the area can vouch for the incredible sunsets falling over the farmlands.  Other, new, Burlington homes are constructed on some of the town's hills, providing an even more magnificent view.  No matter what the geography, these Burlington homes include spacious designs and a peaceful atmosphere.    

Many commuters find Burlington the perfect place to live.  All Burlington homes are within minutes of two of the region's most popular routes - I-5 and State Route 20.  Using I-5, residents are only 40 minutes from the thousands of jobs in Everett, 30 minutes from rapidly growing Bellingham, and an hour from Seattle and all the perks the big city has to offer (with none of the prices).  Highway 20 ends in beautiful Anacortes to the west, and traverses the majestic Cascade Mountains to the east.  Many families include one commuter and one local employee, taking advantage of the easy traveling as well as the many jobs right in town.

Whether buyers are looking to escape the rush of everyday life or be right in the heart of exciting commercial activity, there is a Burlington home to fit their needs.  To learn more about Burlington Real Estate, contact the Home4Investment real estate team!  If you would like some homes further north then try searching for Bellingham Real Estate.

Burlington condominiums are affordable, convenient, and comfortable.  From starter homes to lifelong residences, Burlington condominiums can accommodate any lifestyle.

Most Burlington condominiums offer the traditional perks of multi-family housing.  For example, residents are spared the hassles of maintaining a single-family home.   There is no need to fix roofs, clean out gutters, or cut grass.  The lack of private lawns rarely creates a problem, though; residents of Burlington condominiums take advantage of the city's many parks, thus having access to trails and open green space.

Burlington condominiums come in a range of styles and ages.  Complexes have been constructed for decades, though a large portion have been developed from the late 1990's on.   This provides buyers with many choices, most of which are new, high-quality units.  Burlington condominiums also come is a number of sizes, from studios to 3-bedrooms.   Thus, anyone can find a home to accommodate their situation including new homeowners, retirees, and families. 

One of the most exciting aspects of Burlington condominiums is the price.  Many people discover that instead of renting an apartment, they can purchase their very own Burlington condominium.  With prices starting in the low-$100,000's, people can pay the same amount for a monthly mortgage payment as they would on rent!   (For example, a 30-year loan on a $130,000 Burlington condominium at a 5.75% APR would only cost $760 a month.)   Larger, newer Burlington condominiums typically start in the low-$200,000 range, though patient buyers can find even better deals.  Burlington is a much better value then the close Bellingham Real Estate market.

With so much money saved on housing, Burlington condominium owners have plenty left over to take advantage of the excellent shopping.  Most units are within five minutes of some of the best shopping in the region.  The Prime Outlets have long been a retail destination for residents of Western Washington, boasting outlet stores from GAP, Nine West, Coach, Tommy Hilfiger, and more.   The Cascade Mall and surrounding stores such as Pier 1, the Sportsman's Warehouse, and Cork and Cellar Wine Markers provide even more shopping options.  Additionally, everyday conveniences including grocery stores and restaurants dot the town, ensuring that no one has to travel far for the necessities.

Burlington residents have an easy commute to just about any city north of Seattle.  Located directly off of Interstate 5, commuters need only travel 30 minutes north to Bellingham, 10 minutes south to Mount Vernon, or 40 minutes south to Everett.   The town's central location makes it the perfect spot for those who want to come home to the quiet oasis of Burlington while still being close to some of the region's most desirable jobs.

In essence, Burlington condominiums have it all.  To learn more about the great Burlington real estate opportunities in Burlinton, contact the Home4Investment real estate team today.

Bellingham spas may not be a necessity- this town is already quite relaxed - but they sure are popular.  Here are a few Bellingham spas to check out next time you're craving a few hours of bliss:

Reflections Day Spa and Salon offers dozens of services including Swedish massage, hairstyling, body wraps, and much more.   Additionally, this Bellingham spa boasts affordable packages for every occasion.  The Wedding Package, complete with hair design, make-up, massage, and fruit trays, is especially popular.   Reflections' friendly and skilled staff has this relatively new Bellingham spa quickly gaining loyal customers.  ( Reflectionsspaandsalon.com, 1211 North State Street, Salon: 360.676.1411, Spa: 360.715.3723)

The Sandalwood Salon and Spa is located in the heart of downtown.  This convenient Bellingham spa boasts a knowledgeable staff and a relaxing, welcoming atmosphere.  Sandalwood uses - and knows everything about - Aveda products, some of the finest hair care products on the market.   Compared to other spas of similar caliber, this Bellingham spa is quite affordable.  With haircuts costing upwards of only $20, even the most frugal can enjoy a day at the spa.   (Aveda.aveda.com/stores/facts. asp?SALON=2457, 114 West Magnolia Street #3, 360.647.5046)

Escape Day Spa is one of the most popular Bellingham spas.  Its location directly off the I-5 Lakeway Exit makes it visible to thousands everyday, but the peacefulness inside has guests believing they're in paradise.  Escape is great for first-time spa-goers with helpful website advice about the proper spa etiquette and their ability to make even the most nervous clients feel comfortable.   Its many services, incredible décor, and overall atmosphere have customers raving about their experience for days.  ( Escape-dayspa.com, 1344 King Street, 360.756.0002)

The Zazen Salon Spa attracts many of its customers from the attached, elegant, Bellwether Inn, but tourists aren't the only loyal customers to this beautiful, Bellingham spa.  Focused on clear communication and providing the utmost comfort to their customers, Zazen ensures that every guest enjoys their visit.   From makeovers to couple's packages, this Bellingham spa has something incredible for everyone.  (Zazensalonspa.com, 11 Bellwether Way #102 , 360.715.1050)

Give them all a try and find the perfect Bellingham spa for you!  For more information visit Bellingham city guide!!  If you would like to move closer to these spas make sure you visit the Bellingham WA real estate site.

Bellingham weather is rarely extreme.  Each season has its own perks, and residents are rarely inconvenienced by Bellingham weather.

Summer

On the whole, Bellingham weather in the summer is perfect.  Even cloudy mornings almost always burn off by 11 AM, leaving the rest of the day for kayaking in Bellingham Bay, jumping off the cliffs of Whatcom Falls into the swimming hole below, or simply lounging around at one of the city's many parks.

Bellingham weather from June through August typically peaks in the mid-70s.  Of course, summer has its streaks of hot days (though other regions might smirk at the Northwest's definition of "hot"), with highs in the 90s.   However, gentle, fragrant breezes from the bay make even the sweatiest days bearable.  The period of hot days is usually balanced by a number of unseasonably cool, wet days.   Though these look more like fall or winter from the indoors, the temperature is typically in the 50s or 60s.  The warmest of the rainy summer days can create some uncomfortable humidity, though this is uncommon.

Fall

During the fall, Bellingham weather becomes increasingly cool and wet.  Sunshine and temperature in the 70s will occasionally make an appearance, but averages typically range in the 60s and 50s, and rain showers aren't uncommon.   Unlike areas in the south or the Midwest, however, rain in Bellingham doesn't arrive in torrential downpours.  (In fact, the Top 10 Wettest U.S . Cities list, compiled by WeatherBill, Inc. doesn't include any major towns from the Pacific Northwest.) 

One can expect to see residents sporting hooded sweatshirts and jeans to brave the typical fall Bellingham weather.   The least pleasant days, often characterized by relatively heavy rain and wind, inspire most residents to zip up a rain jacket and toss on some fashionable boots.

Winter

Compared to most regions in the United States, winter Bellingham weather is a piece of cake.  Bellingham weather rarely graces the city with snow, ensuring easy transportation throughout the season.  The few days that the area does encounter snow, adults and children alike celebrate.   The temperature does not usually dip below freezing, with records lows matching other cities' average highs.

Of course, the precipitation does not stop during winter.  Bellingham weather forecasts continue to include rain during December, January, and February.   In this regard, winter Bellingham weather is much like the fall's.  Much of the flora looks similar, as well; Washington is known as the "Evergreen State", after all.

Spring

During the spring, Bellingham weather seems to inspire a buzz of excitement from locals.  As temperatures begin to rise to the 60s and the rain slowly begins to taper off, the moderately outdoorsy types find their way outside again.   By May, cloudy days are becoming rarer and by June, gray skies are the exception.  Heat doesn't always accompany the sunshine early in the season - the temperature still averages in the 50s during April - but spring Bellingham weather is loved by visitors and locals alike.

No matter what the Bellingham weather brings, there is always something to do in town.  From concerts to plays to comedians, Bellingham has no shortage of entertainment!  Come check it for yourself.  For more information on the area visit the Bellingham City Guide brought to you by the Home4investment real estate team.