MARCH 23-MARCH 29TWENTY-TWELVEFREE

RealEstateweeklyRESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • LAND/ACREAGE

FIVE SPRING STEPS FOR A BEAUTIFUL SUMMER YARDPAGE 3

CREATE AN OUTDOOR RETREAT PAGE 4-5

DESIGNER CELEBRATES THE SIGHTS AND SCENTS OF SPRING PAGE 6-7

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE BUILDING A DECKPAGE 8

Q&AMULTI STATE EXCHANGEPAGE 9

CLASSIFIEDSPAGE 10-11

INSIDETHIS ISSUE

YOUR KEY TO REAL ESTATE IN SKAGIT, SNOHOMISH, ISLAND AND WHATCOM COUNTIES

goskagit.com/reweekly A supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald and the Anacortes American

AFFORDABLE EAGLEMONT $331,000Immaculate home in a top Mount Vernon location only ten minutes to I-5. Three bedrooms and two baths with a roomy fl oor plan on one level. Kitchen opens to the main living area, with cathedral ceilings and fi replace. Very energy effi cient gas forced air heating. Professionally landscaped with fenced back yard. Enjoy the deluxe hot tub on the back deck on this very private lot. Home is priced right and ready to occupy. MLS # 312210

FEATURED ARTICLE:

Brown McMillen Real Estate235 W. Rio Vista AvenueBurlington, WA360.757.6013www.brownmcmillen.com

Agent: Tod LeHecka

360-333-1032

CREATE AN OUTDOOR RETREAT: This year, transform your outdoor area into a family retreat with an “out-of-the-box” vision, careful planning and the appropriate tools. First, gather your family together for a brainstorming session and target what you want to do in your outdoor haven. (cont. on pg. 4)

2 March 23, 2012 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

www.SkagitValleyRealEstate.com320 S Burlington Blvd • Burlington(360) 755-9494 • (800) 775-0153

Go to our website for a quick and easy way to search all listings!Territory NW

Wilma LouiaOwner

661-1631

IvanaWood

770-3550

RonVan Pelt333-1045

ElizabethDetillion708-8800

DebbieAllen

708-8780

MichelleMitzel

630-4423

JimStransky708-1681

KirkCampbell770-7470

DanSoria

348-6655

Charlie & Jeannie Boon

708-9645

MikeWelling540-1341

Pete McDougallBroker

708-6500

Amber Soria

969-4030

Anacortes $259,950Classic home with terrifi c 24 X 48 shop w/over-large door for RV or boat clearance. Commercial zoning allows for business. Over 1 acre with Hwy 20 visibility. Great views of Padilla Bay & Mt. Baker. #187399

Call Elizabeth, 708-8800

Mount Vernon $215,000Well cared for 2 story home. Desirable Blackburn Ridge area. 3 BR, 2 ½ baths, 1628 sq. ft. Gorgeous new mahogany deck. Newer int & ext paint, many new updates. On fully fenced lot. #290421

Call Charlie, 708-1415, Jeannie, 708-9645

Mount Vernon $142,300Affordable 2 bedroom, 1 ¾ bath. 1199 sq. ft. with woodstove. Beautiful hardwood fl ooring and updated kitchen. Large corner lot with mature landscaping. Plenty of additional storage. MLS#260435

Call Pete, 708-6500

Stanwood $195,000This property is a MUST SEE! 40+ acres mostly fl at with a gentle slope. Large pond with lots of building locations. There is a gravel road through the property. Power at the street. MLS #325270

Call Kirk, 770-7470

Burlington $259,9002,800 sq. ft. 4 bd/ 2 ¾ baths, Kitchen features granite countertops, a new double oven & a pan-try. Sunroom w/a hot tub. Huge shop w/ loft and high door. Large deck and fully fenced backyard w/cherry & apple trees. MLS #332208

Call Wilma, 661-1631

Mount Vernon $217,000Rambler in Desirable Trumpeter Development. 3 BR/ 1 ¾ Baths, 1660 Sq. Ft. Nicely updated-new paint, fl oors, counters. Baths w/ radiant heat in tile fl oors. Nice open fl oor plan, F.S. Stove in Family Room. New covered Trex Deck, Private Fenced Yard. MLS # 321899. Dir: From I-5, take Mount Vernon/College Way Exit #227, go east on College Way, go left on Martin Rd, take left onto Trum-peter, go right and take another right on Trumpeter Pl.

Call Charlie, 708-1415, Jeannie, 708-9645

PRICE REDUCED

Clear Lake $70,000Adorable Bungalow in the heart of Clear Lake.Total renovation in 2007, w/newer roof, vinyl win-dows, and oak cabinets. All appliances included.Storage shed, and fenced yard. Won’t last at this price! MLS # 333454

Call Ron, 333-1045

NEW LISTING

VACANT LAND

LARGE LOT

NEW LISTING

PRICE REDUCED

Mount Vernon $159,900Great 3 bd/1ba, like new rambler located in a super nice Mount Vernon Neighborhood. Home features a large kitchen with eating area, and master Bd/bath. On a large corner lot. Huge deck and a covered front porch. Come and check it out today! MLS # 317587

Call Mike, 540-1341, for others like these

PRICE REDUCED

OPEN HOUSE: Sat. March 24th

1-3PM

Mount Vernon $329,000Built in 1994 in the style of the yesteryear. 3 bd/2.5 ba 2185 sq. ft home. This home is adorned with classic dormers, cedar siding, river rock fi replace and solid oak fl oors/staircase. 24 x 38 3 car garage. MLS # 308824

Call Ron, 333-1045

Mount Vernon $349,900New construction to be completed Spring 2011. Smart Rambler fl oor plan w/ 1900+ SF, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths & an offi ce in Nookachamp Hills. Hardwood, carpet & tile fl ooring as well as granite countertops & tiled backsplashes. The kitchen is great for entertaining as it opens up into the nook & living room. Nice fi nish work throughout! #160464

Call Michelle, 630-4423

PRICE REDUCED

VIEWS OF THE VALLEY

SOLDGreat 3 bd/1ba, like new rambler located in a

SOLDGreat 3 bd/1ba, like new rambler located in a super nice Mount Vernon Neighborhood. Home

SOLDsuper nice Mount Vernon Neighborhood. Home features a large kitchen with eating area, and SOLDfeatures a large kitchen with eating area, and master Bd/bath. On a large corner lot. Huge deck SOLDmaster Bd/bath. On a large corner lot. Huge deck and a covered front porch. Come and check it out SOLDand a covered front porch. Come and check it out today! MLS # 317587SOLDtoday! MLS # 317587

TABLE of CONTENTSFive Spring Steps for a BeautifulSummer Yard Pg. 3Create an Outdoor Retreat Pg. 4-5Designer Celebrates the Sights andScents of Spring Pg. 6-7Things to Know Before Building a Deck Pg. 8Q & A: Multi State Exvhange Pg. 9Classifieds Pg. 10-11

To advertise in

or other Skagit Publishing publications, Call 360.416.2180 or E-mail ads@skagitads.com

View this publication online at www.goskagit.com/reweekly©Skagit Publishing LLC 2012 | All rights reserved.

All real estate advertised in Real Estate Weekly is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin,

or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimi-nation.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

RealEstateweekly

For further information call HUD Toll Free at 1-800-669-9777.

All Houses subject to prior chang-es without notice. Neither advertisers nor Skagit Publishing are responsible for any errors in the ad copy. Skagit Publishing reserves the right to refuse any advertising, which we deem unsuitable for our publication.

Unless otherwise noted, all photographs, artwork and ad designs printed are the sole property of Skagit Publishing and may not be duplicated or reprinted without express written permission.

Skagit Publishing is not respon-sible for typographical or production errors or the accuracy of information provided by advertisers.

SKAGIT PUBLISHING

4Pg.

Real Estate Weekly content sponsored by:Whidbey Island Bank

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly March 23, 2012 3

Think ahead with a good yard-care routine this year so you’ll have a backyard oasis all year

for entertaining or simply relaxing and enjoying the hazy, lazy days of summer with family and friends. There’s simply nothing that compares to running barefoot through lush green grass, here are some tips to get started:

1) Begin with a good spring clean up, which includes raking leaves and removing debris, tree guards and burlap. Just be careful not to remove mulch from perennials or shrubs too early, or to rake your flower garden too vigorously. Doing so could damage the soil, tendering new bulbs and emerging plants.

2) Clean, repair, sharpen, lubricate and tune all of your garden tools, mowers and trimmers, so they are ready to go when you are.

3) Testing your soil is the starting point of any lawn fertilization program. Consider testing your soil each time you plant new seed. State Extension services and private labs offer kits that let you mail in soil samples for analysis. The reports will give you an accurate reading of what

your lawn needs and how much of it should be applied. While tests don’t have to be done every year, they are a good idea every three or four years.

4) Control crabgrass, dandelions and clover, three of the most common weeds you’re likely to see trying to take hold in your lawn. Crabgrass is best tackled before it emerges from the ground and begins to grow leaves. Conversely, members of the broadleaf weed family - like dandelions, clover, plantain, chickweed, and spurge - require a treatment that comes into direct contact with the plant’s leaves, so they must be dealt with once they’ve made their appearance known. Be sure to choose a product that is best suited for your region. Look for lawn fertilizers with a slow-release nitrogen ingredient for strong roots and long lasting results. Once you get it on the lawn - you’ll be done for the

season because the slow-release nitrogen provides your lawn with controlled, steady nutrition - resulting in thicker, healthier grass. That means no excess growth, and less mowing.

5) Set your mowing height at 2 1/2 to 3 inches and mow at the same height all growing season. Try not to remove more than 3/4 inch of grass at any single mowing. Whenever possible, mow during the cooler morning or evening hours to avoid damage to the turf.

Five Spring Steps for a Beautiful Summer Yard

4 March 23, 2012 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

This year, transform your outdoor area into a family retreat

with an “out-of-the-box” vision, careful planning and the appropriate tools. First, gather your family together for a brainstorming session and target what you want to do in your outdoor haven. Next, make a to-do list of the projects required to make your vision a reality. Finally, round up the tools and supplies you need and get to work! To help you, Woodcraft offers a few suggestions to make your work easier.

Advice from Tommy MacTommy MacDonald, host of “Rough Cut -- Woodworking with Tommy Mac” on public television, has a few tips for your outdoor adventure. “Before you saw a board or drive a screw, make sure you have all the tools, supplies and

plans you need rounded up and ready for the project at hand,” says MacDonald. “Stopping and starting to hunt for a tool or making a trip to buy materials wastes time and energy better spent on building. Don’t forget the safety gear and first aid kit and work with a partner on the big projects whenever possible.”

Gathering PlacesDecks, patios and porches, both open and enclosed, invite people to gather for a meal, share conversation or play games.To start your building projects, use the Bosch 12” Dual Bevel Miter Saw for your crosscutting chores. The saw’s patented Axial-Glide System expands horizontal cutting capacity to 14” and affords a compact work space that saves up to 12”. Make quick work of building a deck

or porch floor with the Kreg Deck

Jig that creates a strong wood-to-wood bond with self-tapping screws that are hidden for a smooth, splinter-free surface. Compatible with composite deck boards, ACQ treated lumber, and native softwoods such as redwood, cedar and pressure-treated pine, the Jig comes with Kreg Coarse Protec-Kote (anti-corrosion) deck screws that are sold separately and can also be used as simple face screws for a variety of outdoor projects. Add a Pinnacle Three-Piece Combination Square (blade, square head and center finder), a Woodcraft 6’ tape measure and a selection of HIGHPOINT stainless steel exterior grade screws to your tool lineup for general measuring, marking and joinery.

Comfortable FurnitureWhether you’re on the deck or on the lawn,

Create an Outdoor Retreat

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly March 23, 2012 5

North Homes Realty Inc.

• 3 Lot corner location. Fully fenced, gar. Covered patio, fruit trees, garden space, RV parking & alley access.

• 1718 S.F. Natural gas heat plus fi replace in L. Rm.• 3 Bedroom-Turn of the century charming home. Newer roof. Kitchen with expansive Corian counters & built-ins & eating bar.• Walk to park, library & restaurants.

Directions: From Fairhaven go East to Pine.Right on Pine then Right on Washington Ave.(Corner of Pine & Washington). MLS #274742.

JACKIE LINDEMAN 360-770-9080

OPEN HOUSESaturday, March 24th, 1-4pm702 Washington Ave. Burlington $184,000

Jackie Lindeman

3780 E. College Way, Mount Vernonwww.skagittraditionrealty.com

360.424.0300 or 360.853.8888

Sandy Everett360-202-3706

Wonderful 1620 sq. ft. home is located in a great area. It offers a detached studio, shop/garage and hot tub on a fenced acre. It has a kitchen with eating area, large pantry, formal dining room & lots of storage. A spacious living room and 2 full baths complete this home. 19945 Parson Creek Rd., Sedro-Woolley

OPEN HOUSE: Sunday, March 25, 2-4:30 $249,000Showcase: Sedro-Woolley $269,000OPEN HOUSE

This spacious rambler is in a beautiful, established neighborhood & features bamboo fl oors and upgraded wall-to wall carpets throughout. A remodeled, gourmet kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 1.75 baths, formal dining area and bonus great room off the kitchen, complete this 2048 sq. ft. beauty. Outdoors offers a large fenced yard with

raised garden beds and RV parking. Bring offers! MLS# 111942 $269,000 Danya Wolf

360-708-8294

OPEN HOUSES & SHOWCASES

comfortable furniture will enhance your outdoor living experience. Woodcraft offers a wide selection of outdoor furniture plans, including Adirondack chairs, swings, garden benches, rockers, picnic tables and benches, arbors and much more.

For your furniture projects, use the Rockwell BladeRunner, a portable, multipurpose precision cutter that uses any T-shank jigsaw blades to make straight, curved or controlled cuts, allowing you to use both hands to guide the material (wood, metal, ceramic tile, aluminum or plastic).The BladeRunner can be wall mounted, but easily detaches for use at your worksite and has a dust port for attachment to a shop vacuum for continuous cleanup. To hold workpieces together, Jorgenson offers its ISD3 Expandable Clamp in 6”, 12”, 18”, 14” and 36” sizes. Two clamps can be joined to extend the clamping length by 6”. Use the Festool CSX Lithium-Ion 10.8V Cordless Drill Driver Set for all your drilling and driving chores, especially in tight spaces, dark spots and corners.

Activity Areas & Secluded SpotsWooden playground equipment, game courts, garden benches, arbors, gates and trellises organize your outdoor living area for fast-paced play and quiet relaxation.For cutting chores on these varied projects, use the Festool Trion PS 300 EQ Jigsaw, a 720-watt tool that cuts 3/4” wooden beams, 3/4” aluminum or 3/8” steel with ease. Electronic Multi-Material Speed Control provides the correct constant speed for the material you are sawing, which prevents overheating. If you need a second pair of hands for large or awkward tasks, the Rockwell JawStand can help. The easy-to-use work support stand is ideal for holding, clamping, and feeding large work or sheets of material.

Protect Your Projects & Your HandsEnsure a long life for your outdoor wood projects with OneTime Wood Protector, a proprietary acrylate resin blend that penetrates wood, actually becoming part of the cellular structure, and cures by exposure to UV radiation. Curing requires two dry days with no precipitation. OneTime is guaranteed to protect new wood, old wood, or wood that has had a previous coating removed -- for seven years. To protect your hands, cover them with YGC General Utility Gloves. Made of high quality, man-made materials, the gloves are form-fitting, lightweight, washable and tough.

CAPTION: During Season 2 of “Rough Cut --Woodworking with Tommy Mac” on public television, host Tommy MacDonald shows viewers how to build this attractive trellis, perfect for outdoor landscaping.

6 March 23, 2012 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

Kelli Ellis is an interior designer for all seasons. But when spring rolls around each year, she is truly in her element.

An award-winning celebrity interior designer, textile designer and design psychology expert, Ellis’s work is everywhere, from television (as a featured designer on TLC’s “Clean Sweep,” HGTV’s “Takeover My Makeover,” and Bravo’s “Real Housewives of Orange County” as well as guest spots on NBC, CBS and ABC) and the Web (as eHow.com’s interior design expert) to print media (as the monthly design advice columnist for the Orange County Gazette). Known for her love of flowers and floral design, Ellis also

serves as a spokesperson for the Society of American Florists. For Ellis, spring offers endless opportunities to update and refresh interior spaces with touches of color. While she always recommends starting with a neutral foundation that includes walls and major pieces of furniture in shades of white, beige or brown, Ellis loves to add seasonal flourishes by changing up accents and accessories.

“With a neutral foundation,” explains Ellis, “you don’t have to invest a lot of time or money to refresh. Once you have the basics -- those pieces of furniture that you absolutely love and will stand the test of time -- the sky’s the limit in terms of changing accents such as valances, pillows, rugs, candle holders -- even the matting on a picture. A neutral foundation opens the door to a new look with minimal changes.” According to Ellis, one of the best -- and easiest -- ways to add seasonal color and refresh a living space is with fresh flowers displayed in a variety of containers. Fresh flowers not only enliven a room and bring in the sights and scents of the outdoors, they are perfect for playing up color and color combinations. “A lot of people are afraid of color in their decor, so a less scary way of introducing color is with flowers and vases,” Ellis notes. “Fresh flowers can go with any type of decor and generally last as long as your mood, so there are endless opportunities to experiment without making a long-term commitment.” Decorating with flowers begins with choosing a container that is in sync with the season and the style of your home, counsels Ellis. “There are so many container options for every type of decor,” Ellis says. “If your home leans toward

Celebrity Designer Celebrates the Sights and Scents of Spring

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly March 23, 2012 7

VALLEY HOMES823 N 4th St • Mount Vernon

www.buyingvalleyhomes.com(360) 424-7166

Visit Our Web site at buyingvalleyhomes.com

Call us today or email us atremaxvalley@comcast.net

Property Management Services / Rental Listings Available (360) 424-3198

1154 Sinclair Wy, BurlingtonBeautiful 2 bedroom & 2 bath home. Bath

off Master Bedroom. Home has several upgrades and a 1-car garage. Large area in back for patio or off-street parking.

Green space in front where you can sit on the covered porch and view the Cascade Foothills. Locked gate access to city park. Located on larger lot that similar homes

within The Cedars. Located in a 55+ community with club house activities.

Call Jim Nicholas 360-708-9379

MLS#: 323533 $120,000

2419 N 20th Place, Mount VernonLarge corner lot with a large fenced back yard. Garage has been converted to extra

living space and a utility room but still has the garage door in tack so could be changed back. Gas fireplace keeps this home nice and cozy. Views of Mt. Baker

and a good location. Newer kitchen appliances all stay. Short sale. Call Becky Elde 360-770-9427

MLS#: 333651 $120,000

22071 Little Mountain Rd, Mount VernonBeautiful home on acreage with a 2 bd/1 bath mother-in-law apt. Kitchen has top of the line cabinets, granite countertops,

walk in pantry, & a 4" butcher block island. Flooring is hand scraped white oak. Living

room has gas fireplace. Covered deck allows views over the valley. Master has lg. tiled shower, tub, two sinks. Rec rm has a wet bar & fireplace. Beauty salon off garage.

On demand hot water. Tenant pays $1050/month and is willing to stay on. Wine cellar.

24' x 30' shop plus barn. Call Becky Elde 360-770-9427

MLS#: 333664 $475,000

2725 E Fir St #64, Mount VernonNice, updated 2 bedroom 1.75 bath home.

All new plumbing, faucets & handicap retrofitted rest rooms. 30 year roof. two

triple paned, gas filled Bay Windows & Air duct sealing, reducing heat loss by about

80%; this with the use of the free-standing wood stove-reduced electric bill. Carport and outdoor carpeted patio. 8X12 shed w/extended 10' roof for stove log protection.

Call Jim Nicholas 360-708-9379

MLS#: 329366 $30,720

1048 Cassius Ct, Camano IslandThe price on this property was just

reduced $25,000. A great deal for the buyer who wants a beautiful, well built, custom home with one of the best views of Utsalady Bay, Mount Baker, Whidbey Island and LaConner. Located west of Interstate 5 through Stanwood, WA

via State Route 532 bridge crossing to Camano Island.

Call Jim Nicholas 360-708-9379

MLS#: 292797 $550,000

1126 Railroad Ave, Mount VernonNice one level home in downtown

neighborhood. Covered porch leads to nice open living room, kitchen area. Recently

updated kitchen with new appliances. Foundation has also been updated. Extra

room/space can be used as office or possible 3rd bedroom. Large fenced backyard with

alley access.Call Mike Whitney 360-421-4310

MLS#: 326298 $89,000

country, think about using old decanters, tins or even wooden boxes. For contemporary homes, glass vases with clean lines work best. And for traditional homes, go with urns or ornate vases.” The same principal applies to the flowers themselves. Mixed flowers tend to be more traditional; bunches of local flowers lend a homey, just-picked quality to a casual or country home; and monochromatic arrangements ooze modern. The key, notes Ellis, is to pair flowers with both their containers and the indoor environment in which they will be seen. Next comes color. While Ellis leans toward monochromatic arrangements of white flowers -- stargazers, lilies, roses and orchids are among her personal favorites -- she nevertheless appreciates the “pop” of color that can be achieved with bolder blossoms. When choosing flowers for a particular spot or

room, Ellis advises looking at complementary colors -- those that are on the opposite side of the color wheel. For example, if the walls are a warm shade of yellow or gold, a container filled with blue flowers, such as hydrangeas, delphiniums or sapphire orchids, makes a bold statement. And in the green room? Try flowers in shades of purple and violet. “I think the greatest thing in the world is to bring your own vase or container to the florist and ask for something special that works with it,” she reveals. “Not every florist has a vase that suits your taste or will work in a particular spot, so I take in my containers and say, ‘I want something blue.’ Then I’m both surprised with the result and certain that it will work with the decor.”

8 March 23, 2012 Real estate Weekly goskagit.com/reweekly

the number the National association of Realtors’ Housing affordability Index rose to in January 2012, the highest level of

affordability since record keeping began in 1970. source: National association of Realtors

Statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau Housing Survey indicate that homeowners annually spend billions of

dollars improving outdoor living areas. One of the most popular ways to do just that is to add a deck to a home. Decks are beneficial in many ways. Grillmasters love decks because they make the perfect place to set up a grill and a table to cook for family and friends. Those who simply love being outdoors find decks the perfect place to relax and soak up some sun or idle away the evening hours. But homeowners who want to build a deck

should know a few things before that process begins.

* Permits are necessary. Unless the deck is going to be especially small, you will likely need a permit to build it. Before buying any materials or consulting any contractors, make certain you know which permits you need and how to get them. If the proper permits are not secured before the project begins, you might have to tear down the whole project and start all over again.

* Decks don’t have to go on the back of the house. If the back of your house sits in the blazing sun all day, then it’s probably best to build the deck elsewhere, and that’s perfectly alright. So long as the property and permits allow, decks can be built on the side of a home as well, and putting a deck on the side might be more comfortable.

* Decks don’t have to be made of wood. It’s easy to assume all decks are made of plain wood. However, decks can be made out of a wide variety of materials, natural or synthetic. Pressure treated wood is perhaps the most popular material for decking because it’s not very expensive. But manmade materials that are a mixture of recycled plastic and wood bits or sawdust are also popular because they require no maintenance. But homeowners should know that manmade materials can get hot in the sun, which will require those enjoying the deck to wear shoes.

* Expect to do some digging. If you’re going to build your own

deck, expect to do some serious digging. Local building codes will dictate how deep you will need to dig for the pier footings, which support the deck’s weight. Just how deep you’ll dig depends on your climate’s specific frost line, but it’s safe to assume you’ll get a workout in when digging.

* The deck can have multiple levels. Though many people associate decks with one level, it’s possible to have a multi-level deck if you simply don’t have enough room to build a deck that will be big enough to meet all of your needs. A multi-level deck can break up those long flights of stairs while ensuring you will always have somewhere to go to escape the sun on a hot day.

* You will want to protect the deck. Decks are a costly investment, and you will want to protect that investment. If you’re building a wood deck, keep in mind the sun will beat down on the deck for most of the year. You can protect the deck by painting it. Paint provides sunscreen for the deck, stopping the sun from breaking down the material. Once you’ve finished painting, apply sealant, whether it’s oil or water based.

* Don’t forget fasteners. Fasteners will hide the screws for aesthetic appeal. But not all woods and fasteners are the right fit, as certain woods are only compatible with certain fasteners. Find out which fasteners make the right fit ahead of time. Because fasteners conceal the screws, they also make it possible to go barefoot on the deck. A deck makes a great addition to many homes, but homeowners should learn as much as possible about decks and what goes into building them before making any decking decisions.

Things to know Before Building a Deck

goskagit.com/reweekly Real estate Weekly March 23, 2012 9

206.1AffORdABLE ABOdES

STAT

the number the National association of Realtors’ Housing affordability Index rose to in January 2012, the highest level of

affordability since record keeping began in 1970. source: National association of Realtors

deck, expect to do some serious digging. Local building codes will dictate how deep you will need to dig for the pier footings, which support the deck’s weight. Just how deep you’ll dig depends on your climate’s specific frost line, but it’s safe to assume you’ll get a workout in when digging.

* The deck can have multiple levels. Though many people associate decks with one level, it’s possible to have a multi-level deck if you simply don’t have enough room to build a deck that will be big enough to meet all of your needs. A multi-level deck can break up those long flights of stairs while ensuring you will always have somewhere to go to escape the sun on a hot day.

* You will want to protect the deck. Decks are a costly investment, and you will want to protect that investment. If you’re building a wood deck, keep in mind the sun will beat down on the deck for most of the year. You can protect the deck by painting it. Paint provides sunscreen for the deck, stopping the sun from breaking down the material. Once you’ve finished painting, apply sealant, whether it’s oil or water based.

* Don’t forget fasteners. Fasteners will hide the screws for aesthetic appeal. But not all woods and fasteners are the right fit, as certain woods are only compatible with certain fasteners. Find out which fasteners make the right fit ahead of time. Because fasteners conceal the screws, they also make it possible to go barefoot on the deck. A deck makes a great addition to many homes, but homeowners should learn as much as possible about decks and what goes into building them before making any decking decisions.

MULTI-STATE ExCHANgE

QUESTION: We are hoping to do a 1031 exchange sale

on an Idaho rental condo for a rental property in Virginia. We live in California. Can this be done?

ANSWER:If you follow the rules, yes.typically when an investment property is

sold there’s a tax on the sale. With a 1031 exchange – commonly called a “starker” exchange – the tax can be deferred. the catch is that a 1031 exchange must follow IRs rules exactly otherwise it won’t work.

• The exchange must involve “like-kind”

business or investment property that is traded for replacement business or investment property. For instance, you can trade an investment condo for a single-family home to be used as a rental, or an investment duplex for a triplex. The IRS says properties are of like-kind “if they are of the same nature or character, even if they differ in grade or quality.”

• The proceeds from the sale must be held by an outside party in an escrow fund.

• Generally you can “identify” up to three replacement properties within 45 days of closing on the first property, or any number of properties, provided they do not have in total twice the value of the original property. you must close on the replacement property within 180 days.

• A 1031 exchange may not defer all taxes.

there can be situations where one property is exchanged for a replacement property of lesser value, leaving a taxable “boot.”

you want to carefully document all aspects of the exchange. you also want to hold onto the paperwork – it may be needed years or decades later to establish the taxable basis for the replacement property if it’s ultimately re-sold or exchanged.

For specifics speak with a tax professional and an attorney who specializes in real estate. also, see IRs Form 884 and IRs Publication 544. local real estate brokers who concentrate on exchanges can provide further advice.

Q&A ASk OUR BROkERBy Peter G. Miller

10 March 23, 2012 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly

OPEN HOUSESaturday 1-4

421 S 9th St, MV$499,000

This beautiful estate prop-erty is a must see. A seam-less combination of charm-ing traditional home withmodern amenities. Originalwood floors/moldings, newcarpet/paint & appliances.Open floor plan. Park-likesetting w/private patio andsports court.

Tina Grace MierzeskiColdwell Banker Bain

360-739-1431

Rent to own – MV 3 Bdrm, 2½ Ba, plus large bonus room,large fenced yard with gardenspace, $1,450 per mo.

www.skagitsolutions.com360-422-5708

READY FOR BUSINESS!Prime Riverside Dr $319,000Paved 21,780.00 square feetsales lot with lights,signs andready to go on busy River-side Dr. Over 2000 sq ftbuilding with offices, shop,lobby area, bathroom, atticstorage area. Large shopdoor with garage door open-er. Upstairs office has view ofentire sale lot. Land Use (550)RETAIL/AUTO/TIRES/MARINECRAFT/AIRCRAFT & AC-CESS. Neighborhood (6R9)AUTO SALES/SERVICE FA-CILITIES. Reduced Price$319,000. Contact: Terry Minor Email:terrycm@isomedia.comPhone: 360-428-5040 Website with photos :http://cmrvs.com/cmsale

Professional, medical,dental office space forlease or sale, 1500 sq. ft.,near Island Hospital in An-cortes. (360) 293-6998

Need to sell your ADU?Call the experts at Manu-factured Housing Re-source. We will help yousell it quickly and commu-nicate with code enforce-ment on your behalf. 360-855-2214.

Need to sell you manu-factured home? Call theexperts at ManufacturedHousing Resource. Wehave buyers waiting – andwe take care of the homeremoval and transport.360-855-2214.

Doublewide 2 bdrm, 1986,clean, good condition,Mount Vernon. $8250.Terms. 206-920-1523

Big Lake RV Resort:$400/mo. W/S pd. Boatlaunch, dock 360-422-6206

Move in Special. Big Lakewaterview RV space. $300.No dogs. (206) 778-8147

MV room in large housew/bus stop, W/D, all utils. in-cluding cable & internet,$490/mo., $100/dep. 360-424-6974

Downtown apts., Mount Ver-non. Room for rent. All utils.paid. Shared kitchen, livingroom, bathroom, laundry.Men only. No pets. $400 +dep. 360-770-9449.

517 S. 20th, MV, 2 bdrm,W/S/G pd., $705/mo.,$500/dep. Cats welcome.360-428-7637

MV, 2 bdrm, No pets/smoke.$650/mo. W/G pd. 360-630-1941

MV 3 bdrm, 2 ba, 2019 S.18th. Gas furnace & fireplace,garage, deck, yard, W/D,$1075/mo. + $700 dep. Nopets. 360-424-6974

DAFFODIL COURT$800.

W/S/G/basic cable pd. W/D. Call for details. 856-6652

S-W 2 Bdrm w/basement,lrg. garage, lots of room forgarden, $1000 mo., $1000dep. 755-0562 or 333-1151

RENTALSHouses & Apartments.

See our listings atwww.skagitrentals.comRemax Property Mgmt.

823 N. 4th, Mount Vernon360-424-3198

Rent to own – MV 3 Bdrm, 2½ Ba, plus large bonus room,large fenced yard with gardenspace, $1,450 per mo.

www.skagitsolutions.com360-422-5708

FOR RENT: Concrete area,3 bdrm, 2 full ba, fireplace, allappliances furnished. Section8 accepted. $975/mo. 360-333-9159 or 422-5162

Country 3 bdrm, 2 ba, mtnviews, no smoke. $925. 1st,last & damage. 260-615-7750

Burl., 2 Bdrm, 1 Ba, gasheat, W/D hook-up, carport,$850 + utils. $600/damage.No pets. 360-856-6878.

BIRDSVIEW NEW 3 bdrm, 2ba, custom, covered deck, allapplcs., $1185 + dep. 336-1904 or 206-919-2368

Big Lake waterfront, large 1bdrm, fireplace. Great view &fishing $850. 425-330-4678.

Avail. April 15th. 3 bdrm, 2 ½ba, townhouse duplex, 1,539sq. ft., all applcs., fencedbackyard, easy access toHwy 9 & Hwy 20, nosmoke/pets. $1,095/mo.Credit check. 360-856-6949

2 Bdrm, 2 Ba, doublewide,lrg. storage bldg., lrg. yard,Conway area, no smoke, nopets, 1st, last + dep. $800 mo.360-445-2262

1 - 4 Bdrm Rentals.Piazza Realty Property

Mgmt., Inc. 360-424-RENT(7368) www.prpmrentals.com

Spacious 2 bdrm Cam-bridge Apts., Burl., W/D,D/W, fireplace, on bus line,$725. Chuckanut PropertyMgmt., (360) 733-3640.

S.W. Newer 2 bdrm, 1 ½ ba,W/D, 1 car garage, no pets.$850/mo. Call Mark at 360-708-2694.

NO HIDDEN FEES!Fairhaven Manor 757-2149

Norris Place 757-30602 & 3 Bdrm Apts.

Affordable. Section 8 okay.

LaVenture Village Apts. 2bdrm currently avail.$730/mo. Income limits ap-ply. Call 360-424-4622

Downtown apts., Mount Ver-non. 1 bdrm, all utils. paid.Laundry on-site, no pets.$500 + dep. 360-770-9449

Cute downtown studios,on bus line.

Great MV location $550.ASK ABOUT OUR

MOVE IN SPECIAL!360-941-6986

Ask us about Stanwood Vil-la 2 bdrm, 1½ ba townhomes1100 sq.ft. $795 +dep.Month-to-month avail. 360-629-0118,1-888-653-8065

1ST MO. FREE! 1, 2 & 3bdrm, MV, near college, on-site laundry, reserved park-ing. W/S/G pd. Qualify today!Move in tomorrow! 428-3887

1 BdrmS.W. $595.

Laundry, manager on-site.No dogs. (360) 856-6652

1 bdrm MV. Quiet, safe, 1level, near hospital. Seniorswelcome. S. 16th & Skagit St.$690. 360-652-6560.

1 2 & 3 Bdrm Apts2 x 1 ½ Town homes

Covered-Assigned ParkingGarages / Storage Avail.

Complete Appliance PkgsSport Courts / Playgrounds

Pet FriendlyCall Today! 360-856-4803

REAL ESTATE WEEKLY goskagit.com /reweekly March 23, 20112 11

Anita Kohl 961-7795Dawn Hardman 540-0058Duane Gish 770-9299Dominic Pettruzzelli 333-5210George Herner 840-3743Jackie Lindeman 770-9080

Jared Storrs 853-6895Jeff Dowrey 661-2161 Karl Morse 395-5405Lorie Groth 425-422-7145Margie Ernst 708-3198Marlene Deasy 661-6720

Megan Daly 206-383-4407Mike Newman 708-1419Noli Goode 630-6527Paula Margerum 220-0681 Rick Kiesser 770-1195Sandi Hocking 708-1523

Sandi Riley 770-8670Sharon Stokes 661-6164Shaunna Harris 206-715-1623Traci Cypher 708-9481 Veronica Lopez 420-0696

North Homes Realty Inc.360.424.2100 • www.century21northhomes.com

SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.

REAL ESTATE CLASSES STARTING NOW!

CALL SCOTT 360-540-2121

SUNDAY 2:00-4:002400 Francis Rd, Mt Vernon12816 Eagle Dr, BurlingtonFor Deta i ls and d i rect ions,v is i t openhouse.com.

OPEN HOUSE

$59,500 MLS#329370• Top 5 park • Huge kitchen • Gorgeous yard • Upgraded beauty

$140,000 MLS#331731• Large lot • 2 bdrm, 1 ¾ bath • Hardwood floors • Convenient location

$259,300 MLS#278063• Tri-plex • Great rental history • Off street parking • Several updates

$329,900 MLS#265957• Private 5 acres • 3 bdrms + den • Shop/Garage • Spacious kitchen

$265,000 MLS#277434• Lg bonus rm • 4th bdrm/den • Newer 3 bdrm • Granite counter tops

$269,000 MLS#294946 • Shy ½ acre • Huge family room • 720 sf shop • Over 2300 sf

$125,000 • Great price • Front deck • All appliances staySOLD$125,000

SOLD$125,000 • Great price • Front deck SOLD• Great price • Front deck SOLD• All appliances staySOLD• All appliances stay

$325,000 MLS#292252• Lg island kitchen • River rock fpl • Lg Master • Theater room

$264,500 MLS#306633• Riverfront retreat • Private 4+ acres • Huge family rm • Garage + shop

$152,000 MLS#305982• 4 bedrooms • Fenced backyard • Close to schools • New listing

www.WindermereSkagit.comWindermere Real Estate/ Skagit Valley 1030 East College Way • Mount Vernon (360) 424-4901 • 1-800-849-7939

We give you all the details, on every listing, at windermereskagit.com!

STOP!Let us make this easy for you.Go to WindermereSkagit.com for Photos, Open Houses, and Maps for EVERY listing.

2610 E. SECTION ST., #106, MV $39,500Gated serene retirement community with lovely 2 bedrooms, 2 bath home. Spacious floor plan with carport & storage shed plus nice patio & private park-like back yard. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #299022

700 N REED ST., #87, SDW $39,950This large 4 bedrooms, 2 bath double wide is very clean & move-in ready. Many upgrades & improvements. One of the nicest homes in Valley View. Close to shopping & all services. Call Rita Ingram at 708-8338. #275029

512 WARNER ST., SDW $124,840Charming 2 bedroom home in town. Within blocks of schools & downtown. Ready to move in, all appliances included. Al-most new forced air gas furnace & hot water tank. 1 car garage with a storage shed. Call George Bellos at 708-9762. #332906

2819 CLUB CT., #117, MV $124,950A very nice 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath condo. 1 car attached garage. HOA dues cover exterior maintenance, water, sewer, garbage & cable. Community amenities include tennis & racquet ball courts & indoor pool. Quiet neighborhood with easy access for commuting. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #301505

1068 SINCLAIR WAY, BRL $139,000Well maintained 1 level condo located in 55+ “The Cedars”. User friendly kitchen with island & pantry, window coverings, 2 bedrooms with walk-in closets. Call Warren Bingham at 770-2421. #275510

15241 SUNSET LN, MV $219,900One-level west MV home with many upgrades. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 1680 SF, .35 ac lot. Great home for USDA zero down loan program. More info. & photos at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #315145

1220 E. SKAGIT ST, MV $214,900Vintage Hillcrest 3 bedroom home, remodeled kitchen & bath. All newer systems. Charm abounds with wood floors & large picture windows. 2 car garage. Close to Hillcrest Park! Call Cindy Sullivan at 941-9443. #318417

2010 SANDALWOOD, MV $230,000Great rental history duplex sits on large lot. Each unit offers 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, washer/dryer, fireplace & 1-car garage. Lower unit A with a partially fenced yard. Call Sherry Johansen at 708-3636. #60925

39541 BAKER LAKE RD., CNC $239,000A nice rambler with basement & 3 bedrooms, 1 bath all on over 9 acres. Newer roof, windows, wiring & paint. Many outbuildings for your equipment. Close to lake & river fishing. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #311226

512 TALBOTT ST., LAC $239,900Custom Craftsman style rambler in the heart of La Conner on fee simple land. Features 2 bedrooms, den & great room con-cept with hardwoods, open vaulted ceilings & nice covered front porch. Call Lee Ann Dean at 421-3082 or Karine Anderson at 421-1189. #287388

9318 PROSPECT ST., SDW $259,000Well maintained 3 bedroom rambler with 1.75 baths, family room with bar, gas heating & fireplace. Approx. 1/2 lot with detached heated shop & in-ground swimming pool. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #314822

21737 STERLING DR., SDW $339,9001-level home on 1 acre, 4 bedrooms, den, living & family rooms, formal dining, 2 fireplaces, 3 baths. Court yard with hot tub, tennis court, 2 car attached garage, detached shop & large outbuilding. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #266058

8112 EMMANUEL LN, CON $349,0002 story home on 5 acres of pasture with spectacular mountain views. 3 bedrooms & 2.5 baths. Attached 2 car garage & 36x36 shop/barn with 10x14 & 8x7 doors. Call Alice Hanson at 770-8791. #107634

325 ROSE CT., MV $389,900Exquisite Tudor in Hill Top. 2651 sq.ft. of captivating charm, with 4 bedrooms & 2.5 baths on over 1/3 acre of blossoming landscape. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #311383

6792 F & S GRADE RD., SDW $448,900Car Collector’s Dream: garage space for 12 cars! Approx.2238 SF, 3 bedrooms, 1.75 baths. Pond, 6+ acres, lower property w/approx.740’of Samish River frontage. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #90077

3416 LINDSAY PLACE, MV $449,000Custom Craftsman home. 4000+ sq.ft., with gorgeous master suite & huge kitchen with granite. Outdoor living area on covered deck. Huge finished shop in basement. Call Megan O’Bryan at 708-5817. #28602

14307 ROADRUNNER LN, BRL $449,500 Beautiful 1-level home on 1 acre in Bay Meadows. A great floor plan with a grand entrance, high ceilings & upper-end finishes throughout. More info. & photos at SkagitValleyHomes.com. Call Bill & Jannette Krieger at 421-4446. #304877

14363 ROADRUNNER LN, BRL $512,0004 Bedroom home in Bay View on just shy 1 acre. 3,100+ SF, formal dining, office, bonus room, great room & open floor plan. Butler’s pantry, walk-in pantry, lg. island with granite counters & eating bar. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #307721

13576 BISQUET RIDGE LN, BOW $550,0005 gorgeous level acres & the most amazing north valley views, Mt Baker & the Cascades! 2286 sq.ft., 3 bedroom, 3 bath rambler. Huge shop with heated office & RV bay. Call Elizabeth Miller at 420-3607. #326269

17311 W. BIG LAKE BLVD., BIG LAKE $619,900WATERFRONT ESTATE with 1+ acre on Big Lake. Full view of the lake, 3 RV pads with hook-ups. 3 stall dressing building. 2 decks & 2 docks. 1400+ SF with 2 bedrooms & 2 baths. Call Linda Eastman at 202-4075. #112580

Brown McMillen Real Estate235 W. Rio Vista Avenue, Burlingtonwww.brownmcmi l l en .com

NORTHWEST CRAFTSMAN…One of the largest homes, backs up to pro-tected area. Open plan, lg kitchen, covered patio. $350,000. #107987BURLINGTON LOT… zoned general commercial. Perfect site for clinic or any professional use, sewer & wa-ter. Survey & elevations complete. $415,000. #178973LOVELY VIEWS… of Lake, Skagit Valley & Olympic Mtns from this wonderful one-acre building lot w/public water & electricity. $185,000. #264683NICE PARCEL… almost level, par-tially cleared, 2.83 ac. Water & Power in. Mobiles welcome. Lot cer-tified w/critical area work complete. $69,900. #45841WONDERFUL HOME… on 1 ac level lot in perfect condition. 3 bdrms, 2.5 baths, great kitchen, family rm, w/gas fireplace. Beautiful master suite. $325,000. #223246

SHARP CORNER UNIT CONDO… 2 BR, 1.75 BA, fireplace, 55+ secured bldg, enclosed parking. Great location, close to hospital, shopping.$175,000. #327669A MUST SEE… One story, 4 bdrms, 2 baths (remodeled). Birch flrs, elec f/p. Stainless appl, concrete flrs. Fully fenced yard.. $224,000. #292864HUGE VIEW HOME… 12,574 sf home with 6 bdrms & 6 baths on 2 ac. w/spectacular views overlooking Big Lake. $985,000. #251689MOUNT BAKER VIEW… from this wonderful full-acre building site. Pub-lic water & perk approved. $149,500. #235491GREAT BURLINGTON LOCATION… Spacious 3 br + den. Just 8 yrs old, near new condition. Lg fully fenced lot.. $249,500. #309171VACANT LAND… 5 ac level parcel. Bldg site ready for new Mobile or stick blt home. West of I-5 location (Hobson Rd) $100,000. #2929150

360.757.60131.800.869.7084

Terri Heyntsen 391-0938Galen Kindred 770-7083Shelah Inman 661-0145Fritz Inman 661-0147Jeff Ingman 202-2859

Tod LeHecka 333-1032Mary Jo Reitsma 770-6013Phil Hurtig 770-0787Tim Reichert 391-5587Jan Scally 421-5160

Holly Brown-Hilts 661-5538Dick Best 770-1491Ron Wortham 661-1500

www.brownmcmillen.com

Evening Phone Calls Welcome

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY MARCH 24 1-3PM3920 Ridgeway Dr., Mount Vernon$264,000. #292960HOSTED BY: SHELAH INMANSPECTACULAR VIEWS… of Similk Bay & beyond. Just over 1 acre, wa-ter, power in street, very desirable location $175,000. #121206FREEWAY VISIBLE… Office bldg on 1.76 acres in Mt Vernon. Comm’l & Light Industrial Zoning, great for any business . $875,000. #243377SEDRO-WOOLLEY READY TO BUILD LOT… edge of town living w/quick commute to I-5. Priced for quick sale. $49, 950. #310437PANORAMA SOUND VIEWS.… to the North & West. Rare bldg site w/great views of the Islands. Must see! $325,000. #217273RIDERS WANTED… 18 ac on pow-erline easement w/miles of trails for horses or ATV’s. Certified bldg site w/well. $109,500. #310899