Home4Investment Real Estate Team - Ben Kinney

La Conner Festivals

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Sun, 15 Jul 2007 20:44:33 -0500

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!

Northwest Washington Fair - Lynden Fair

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 03:03:42 -0500

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 Festivals - Blaine Maritime Festival

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 03:09:41 -0500

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

Bellingham WA Weather

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 01:26:16 -0500

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.

Bellingham Spas

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 23:18:14 -0500

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.

Granite Falls Homes

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Sat, 06 Oct 2007 23:39:59 -0500

Granite Falls homes, just minutes from Everett, offer delightful, country lifestyles at affordable prices. From farmhouses to friendly, organized neighborhoods, Granite Falls homes come in a variety of styles.

Many residents are drawn to the spaciousness of Granite Falls homes, both of the buildings and the land. Unlike the denser towns directly off Interstate 5, Granite Falls has acres and acres of undeveloped property. Thus, even brand-new Granite Falls homes can be found on enormous lots, an extremely rare feature in other cities in the region. Some residents use this property for farming or other business purposes, while others simply enjoy the privacy and quiet it provides.

Granite Falls homes also have the luxury of being surrounded by one of the most beautiful environments in the Pacific Northwest. The Stillaguamish River is a favorite fishing spot for many, and the nearby hills draw hikers from all over Washington. Residents of Granite Falls homes take full advantage of this gorgeous environment. Some spend entire evenings watching wildlife from their back porch, and nature-savvy residents can live off their own property.

Despite its tranquil, natural setting, Granite Falls is close to many jobs and services. Only 20 minutes from bustling Everett, hundreds of Granite Falls residents drive the quick journey to the city everyday to work at Boeing or any of the other thousands of jobs. Non-commuters, too, enjoy the close proximity to Everett. Residents of Granite Falls homes can enjoy all the benefits of Everett's exciting activities including Silvertips hockey games, concerts at the Everett Events Center, or its numerous restaurants.

Surprisingly, Granite Falls homes are quite affordable. The average Granite Falls home typically costs somewhere in the high-$200,000's, though smart buyers can find even better deals. (Compare this to nearby Arlington with a median price of $375,000.) Price is largely based on the size and age of the Granite Falls home, leaving buyers with many choices. Founded in 1903, charming, historic homes over a century-old still stand, though most Granite Falls homes were constructed in just the past few decades.

To learn more about these wonderful, magnificently-priced Granite Falls real estate, contact the Home4Investment team today. If you would like to learn about other exciting markets explore Bellingham Real Estate

Is it a bad time to sell a home in Bellingham?

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Sun, 11 Nov 2007 16:00:39 -0600

I have been reading the Bellingham Herald for years. Watching the news and listening to people talk about how bad the Bellingham real estate market is. So I thought I would take this opportunity to vent and share some facts.

Here is the bottom line! Bellingham homes are still selling and the average selling prices are up for the year. So where is all of the fear and drama coming from? The biggest problem we have is that there are 3 times the amount of homes on the market compared to 2 years ago.

The secret to selling a home in the Bellingham Real Estate market is to make sure that your home stands out amongst the huge amount of housing inventory. There are three factors that determine if a home will sell in our market. How is the home priced, how well does the home show, and how aggressive the home is marketed. If any one of the three factors are not correct you will not be able to sell your home for the most amount of money in the shortest amount of time.

When you decide that you want to sell try to avoid the media and try to hire an agent that understands the economy and the Bellingham Real Estate market. If you hire someone that is optimistic and realistic you have won half of the battle. Happy Selling and stay tuned for pricing, staging, and marketing recommendations!

Bellingham View Home

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Wed, 13 May 2009 10:41:43 -0500

Beautiful 4-bedroom, 3-bath, view home with granite countertops in the kitchen, stainless steel appliances, slate countertops in bathrooms, radiant heat throughout this 3-story home, 2-car garage. Vacant lot adjacent to this property is For Sale for additional privacy.

View FULL DETAILS and additional PHOTOS here:
http://www.home4investment.com/listing.aspx?ListingID=1202260

Superior search engine for MLS.Search by city, year built, square footage or any other detail. You will see multiple photos, satellite image, full MLS descriptions and Zillow pricing estimates. Click here to see how easy this is. Search in 1293 and all surrounding areas.

Home4investment Real Estate Team

Sedro Woolley New Homes

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Wed, 13 May 2009 10:45:43 -0500

Klinger Estates! New Homes starting from the $180's. Located on the west side of Sedro Woolley just 4 miles from I-5. The TUSCANY 1 story rambler with approx 1345 sf, 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 full baths, gas fireplace eating bar and a nice private yard. Master Suite with private master bath and walk in closet.

View FULL DETAILS and additional PHOTOS here:
http://www.home4investment.com/listing.aspx?ListingID=2018202

Superior search engine for MLS.Search by city, year built, square footage or any other detail. You will see multiple photos, satellite image, full MLS descriptions and Zillow pricing estimates. Click here to see how easy this is. Search in 2276 and all surrounding areas.

Home4investment Real Estate Team

Bellingham Acreage

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 00:40:43 -0500

Bellingham acreage

Bellingham acreage is easier to find than one might think. While many areas of the city have been developed for over a century, construction in other neighborhoods is just beginning. In these areas of Bellingham, acreage is affordable and a smart purchase.

Houses constructed on Bellingham acreage are quite desirable. The large yards are perfect for impromptu games of baseball, a personal garden, or even for a place to raise horses. While many Bellingham homes are built on relatively large lots, acreage allows for a level of peace and quiet not found in most developed neighborhoods.

Bellingham acreage is also perfect for builders. Zoned carefully by the environmentally-conscious City of Bellingham, developers cannot allow homes or commercial buildings to sprawl over valuable land. Instead, growth is planned so that lots can be developed in the most responsible way. In Bellingham, acreage is available for equally community-minded developers to create homes and jobs while respecting the region's unique setting.

To learn more about Bellingham lots and Bellingham acreage or to search for Bellingham Real Estate, contact the Home4Investment real estate team.

Bellingham Waterfront Condos

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 00:48:01 -0500

Bellingham Waterfront condominiums

Bellingham waterfront condominiums are in high demand. Residents of these waterfront condominiums are hesitant to give up 24-hour access to colorful sunsets, rich wildlife, and sparkling water. The combination of a low-maintenance lifestyle and quick access to both nature and the city make Bellingham condominiums some of the most attractive and fastest growing waterfront properties around.

Most of these waterfront condominiums are located on Bellingham Bay between the South Hill neighborhood and Old Fairhaven. Unlike most waterfront properties, these condos are within walking distance to grocery stores, restaurants, and other amenities. Lake Whatcom condominiums are located in a slightly quieter, residential area, though they, too, have quick access to Bellingham services.

When buying or selling a luxury condo in Bellingham WA you need to work with a luxury home specialist like Ben Kinney with the Home4investment Bellingham Real Estate Team.

Bellingham Beaches

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Sun, 08 Jul 2007 16:16:12 -0500

Bellingham beaches are a perfect place to spend that summer afternoon. Whether looking for a place to swim, sunbathe, jog, or picnic, at least one of these great Bellingham locations will suit your need.

Several Bellingham beaches rest within the city limits. Boulevard Park is a local favorite. Accessible by road, trail, or kayak, the park draws visitors of every kind. Boat watchers can stroll on the rocky, half-mile long Bellingham beach and enjoy weekend sailboat regattas. Groups often spend the evening barbecuing, tossing frisbees, or playing volleyball, while others find solitude in combing the shore for shells. The colorful sunsets are universally popular.

Marine Park is just to south, huddled between the train tracks and the Fairhaven shipyards. Despite its seemingly industrial location, it provides visitors with a comfortable, intimate Bellingham beach. During high tide, park goers typically stay on the lush lawn or sit on the large rocks, taking in the gorgeous bay view. Low tide exposes several yards of sandy beach, great for picnics and frolicking dogs.

Unlike the previously mentioned Bellingham beaches, Bloedel-Donovan Park boasts freshwater recreation and relaxation. On hot days, this well-known Bellingham beach is packed with sunbathers. Families play in the designated swimming area, and picnickers are seen every few yards. Summer weekends are especially busy, so be prepared to park across the street a short distance away.

Residents do not have to limit themselves to Bellingham beaches for a wonderful waterfront experience. Birch Bay State Park in Blaine is a great place for beach bonfires, and fortunate homeowners may even have their own personal beachfront property! No matter which waterfront you choose, a Bellingham beach visit is a satisfying one.

Visit the Bellingham City Guide

Bellingham one of the most over priced places to live?

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 00:55:03 -0500

There have been a few reports lately describing Bellingham WA as one of the most over priced areas in the state of Washington.

Problems with this statement is that these calculations are done by bean counters located far outside the state of Washington let alone the Bellingham area. These calculations are normally done by looking at the average home price in Bellingham of $322,000 and comparing to the population, average incomes, and job growth.

Bellingham has one of the highest job growth rates in the state of Washington. The population is steadily growing. The problem we have or at least the problem with these calculations is that our average income is lower. This is not because there is no good paying jobs in our community. By reviewing our population demographics its much easier to understand.

Bellingham is one of the most popular places to retire in the entire United States. Which means a large portion of our population is on a fixed income, work part time, or don't work at all.

Bellingham is also home to a large University (WWU), Bellingham Technical College, and a community college (Whatcom Community College) which means another large portion of our population is college students. Low incomes and mostly part time workers. Also means that entry level positions can be filled cheap by seasonal workers.

If you were to subtract those two groups you would see a lot of professional incomes, good job growth, and an affordable community. Hope this helps calm the fire that the media lights every few months! :)

Home pricing strategies

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 01:14:14 -0500

Many agents price their homes at 299,000 or 299,999

I think this is a mistake because ... think about how users on the internet or how agents search.

They search ranges of $250,000-$350,000 or $200,000-$300,000 or $300,000-$500,000

When was the last time you search $200,000 - $299,000 ????

Agent and consumers search $200,000-$300,000 and $300,000-$400,000

So if we are searching those price ranges and we price our home at $300,000 we get included in both searches (200-300 AND 300-400k)

This is my strategy if my home is priced near a 100k or 50k mark because of increased views.

Another strategy that was recommended at a listing clinic was if the home is priced in the middle of a 50k or 100k range the home should be prices price to the closest dollar even if the amount is arbitrary like:

$137,368 or 213,348

Because consumers assume that even priced homes are not carefully calculated and probably just a home price thrown out for the sake of it. When a home is priced to the exact dollar amount consumers assume that some careful calculations were done.

Ben Kinney - Bellingham WA Real Estate

Seattle Homes for sale

Ben Kinney (Home4Investment Inc.) — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 22:45:53 -0500

Seattle Homes for Sale

It is so easy to find a variety of home for sale in the Seattle, Washington area. Some look for the perfect retirement destination, others seek some of the unique homes seattle has to offer, while others want a city home that is close to nature.

Many have found the perfect house in the attractive Seattle real estate market. Seattle's location is part of what makes it such a perfect place for so many different people; the amazing variety of homes and properties is also an important factor.

Search for Seattle Homes

If a home is more then you are looking to take care of then make sure to search for seattle condominiums. Seattle has so many great condo's that range from the industrial to the most modern or posh. Small studios abound and condos that could fit 10 - 15 studios are still available.

Currently the Seattle real estate market has 1160 condos for sale and 2047 homes for sale. If you need expert advice try using of the Home4Investment Team Seattle Real Estate Specialist.