Residential Real Estate in SW Washington State

Residential Real Estate Services with Passion, Integrity, Knowledge

SOLD! Amazing Sunsets — Perfect Starter Home in Awesome Commuter Location / 3 bedrooms / 1 bath / Auburn-Kent East Hill

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Lovely updated home just minutes from Hwy 18 is a commuter’s dream!

All one level–no stairs & most of the hard work is DONE! New roof & living room flooring in 2020 plus new furnace, A/C & septic in 2016. Cozy up to the wood burning fireplace indoors…or spend quality s’mores time at the firepit in the huge private fully-fenced backyard. There are 2 outbuildings on the property with electricity; great for a workshop, seasonal storage, chicken coop, etc. Bonus room adds extra space for theater, playroom or ? Convenient updated bath can also be accessed from master bedroom.

And … Oh My! The Sunsets from here are AMAZING!

Move right in!

View 360 walk through and Video Tour by clicking the above photo or HERE

Contact me or your agent for a personal tour. If you’ve not yet prequalified, visit my lending resource page for a list of excellent loan officers.

10 Tips to Buying an REO Listing

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houseboarded10 Tips to Buying an REO Listing for first-time homebuyers

Working with first time homebuyers makes bank-owned (referred to as REO … Real Estate Owned) properties seem like an attractive purchase opportunity. These properties on which foreclosure has been completed are now owned by banks (think Wells Fargo, Chase, Bank of America, etc.), HUD, VA or government backed investors (GSEs) such as Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. They’re attractive to homebuyers because transactions involving such properties typically close fast, unlike short sales that can drag on for months.

Some REO properties have had some “fixing up” completed — the grounds have often been cleaned up, sometimes critical missing appliances like the range have been replaced, carpets have been cleaned, and rooms and exteriors painted.

Other properties, however, require fixing and updating, meaning buyers must have funds to present all cash offers or financing with significant down payments. These properties, in particular, are attractive to investors who are looking for investment properties they can fix up and re-sell (flip) or rent.

In addition, often REO properties are priced aggressively, meaning they’re subject to multiple offers.

First time homebuyers, however, often come to the purchase table with a financing goal of asking for closing cost contributions from a seller while using a rehab loan to complete the purchase. That can be tough when buying an REO listing.

What’s a first time homebuyer to do? They often don’t have deep enough pockets to be tremendously aggressive in pricing offers, nor do the REO folks (the Seller) like to wait the additional 2-3 weeks needed to close a transaction where the buyer will use a rehab loan.

Here are 10 Tips to Buying an REO Listing:

  1. Absolutely be preapproved before writing an offer. You  need to know what you qualify for and you’ll need to prove it to the Seller.
  2. Shop below your top financing approval number.  Understand that you may be involved in a multiple offer situation. You may need to offer MORE than the list price in order to “win” the purchase.
  3. Cash is king. Use your available cash to increase your down payment, thus perhaps enabling you to use conventional financing rather than an FHA or VA loan. If you have a 20% down payment,      conventional loans won’t require mortgage insurance, which can save you a couple hundred dollars a month.
  4. Check with your lender to see if you can include your closing costs inside your purchase loan. Sometimes it can be done, although it may increase your interest rate slightly.
  5. Understand and be prepared to try for several homes and lose several before you’re the accepted offer in a transaction. It’s a learning process and the more houses you see and tries you make will enable you to move more quickly each time you see a desirable house.
  6. Experience counts: Work with a lender and an agent that both thoroughly understand and have experience with Rehab loans and purchases. You’ll need every advantage in order to close quickly.
    1. An experienced agent can eyeball a house and know whether or not it will qualify for standard financing or whether a Rehab loan will be required.
    2. An experienced lender should be able to close a streamline FHA rehab purchase within a 45-day window.
  7. REO properties often have a window or so where only owner-occupant offers will be considered. You need to present your best offer right away, and then be prepared (if multiple offers are received) to present your “highest and best” offer again.
  8. Move quickly. If an intriguing property is listed, you need to see it as soon as possible. Some REO properties receive multiple offers within hours.
  9. Remember that the holder of an REO property is looking at a combination of the NET number (your purchase price less any concessions you’ve asked for), a quick closing, and their assessment of      whether you qualify for the purchase.
  10. Finally, be sure your agent has evaluated the pricing structures commonly used by the various Sellers. For example, Fannie Mae tends to price homes a bit higher at first, and then reduce prices slightly if no offers are quickly forthcoming. However, Chase aggressively prices properties, gathers multiple offers, and ultimately closes sales for more than list price.

Auburn, Kent, Algona & Pacific REO sales 2/7/2013-4/8/2013

SOLD! Rare Rambler Resale at The Lakes in Kent, WA

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Rare Resale Rambler Townhouse at The Lakes in Kent, WA
Rare Resale Rambler Townhouse at The Lakes in Kent, WA

There weren’t many rambler units built throughout the entire The Lakes community in Kent. They don’t come up for sale often and, when they do, they tend to sell quickly, especially when they’re as beautiful as this one.

Updated and meticulously maintained, pride of ownership is evident both inside and out of this stylish unit. Consider the designer paints, vaulted ceilings, gorgeous travertine tile baths, spacious kitchen, two bedrooms, and den/office.

There are newer windows providing loads of natural light throughout the home, a wood-burning fireplace for cool winter nights, and your own private, fenced back yard — perfect for BBQs, morning coffee, or growing your own tomatoes. Enhanced by miles of walking trails along the Green River (accessed through your back gate) and your own garage, this townhouse should be on your must-see list!

All on ONE level with no stairs and in a super commuting location just minutes from I-5, 167, and SeaTac!

  • MLS #679220
  • 1,345 Square Feet per County Records
  • Built in 1989
  • Living & Dining Rooms
  • Kitchen with Eating Space
  • 2 Bedrooms, plus Den/Study/Office
  • 2 Bathrooms: one full bath with tub/shower combo & one 3/4 bath off master with large walk-in shower
  • 1-car garage & 1 reserved parking space
  • Fully-fenced Back Yard with gate leading to Green River Trail
  • City of Kent/Levee Improvement scheduled for 2015

Visit the virtual tour, then call your Broker, or me, for a personal tour.

Buying New Construction in south King County (Auburn, Kent, Renton, etc.)

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presaleAlthough pre-existing home sales were still in recovery mode over the last couple of years, new construction seemed to take on wings of its own, especially in our south King and Pierce County areas. From experience in working with several buyers of new construction in new communities, I can tell you that there are many things to consider. Here are just a few:

  • Can you tour model homes or previous construction by the builder? Especially in larger communities, builders often construct one or more model homes that display standard finishes and upgrades. Sometimes upgrades are a bit tricky to identify, so you’ll want to be sure you and your broker ask lots of questions about what is included in the base price.
  • Is there a HomeOwners Association and are there CC&Rs? If you anticipate buying new construction in south King County areas such as Auburn, Kent, Renton, or Federal Way, you’ll find that, typically, HOA administration is often retained by the builder until the majority of homes are completed. At that time, the Association will elect its own officers and be under its own control, typically still guided by a set of Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs). CC&Rs are recorded document(s) that list what can and can’t be done as a resident of the community. You’ll want to be sure to review a copy to see if your lifestyle fits within its guidelines.
  • Can you choose both the lot and floor plan? You may find that the builder has already pre-permitted a specific home for each particular lot or may not be willing to build on a certain lot until other areas are completed. If you have your heart set on a specific floor plan, you may need to adjust your site preferences.
  • What sort of warranty is included? Most builders offer at least a one-year warranty, fixing anything that goes awry during that time period (other than normal wear and tear). Some builders, however, offer extended protection plans perhaps protecting you from foundation issues for 10 years, with peeling paint for maybe only 1-2 years.
  • Are there community playgrounds and events? As lot sizes have shrunk in many areas, builders and developers have often set aside areas for outside events. Can you see these by driving through the neighborhood? Does the number and size seem reasonable for the number of homes included in the community?
  • And finally, how long before you can move in? What a sticky question! Some of the most popular builders are completely sold out of current, standing inventory, while others have a few homes that are ready to go. Typically, if a builder can get started on your new house right away, you’ll find that it still takes 5-6 months or so to construct a new home. But be prepared for much longer time frames! If you anticipate buying new construction in south King County areas such as Auburn, Kent, Renton, or Federal Way, you’ll find that many of these jurisdictions seem to be painfully slow or just totally swamped in completing the permit process.

Questions? Please give me a call or send me a message about buying new construction. There’s a lot to learn!

Farmer’s Markets are “Springing” Up All Over!

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It’s Spring, which means Farmer’s Markets are “Springing” Up All Over!

I love shopping at local Farmer’s Markets. Just mingling amongst all the fresh produce, the local crafts, and flowers is inspiring. I always come away with the zeal to go home and weed. Or something equally as dirty.

Not to mention, of course, my reusuable shopping bag, full of goodies. Veggies, lettuces, fruits…even an occasional quart of fresh fresh milk. Yummy. We eat really well for a few days after my trip.

Near my home in Auburn, Washington are a few Farmer’s markets worth mentioning. I missed all of the grand openings this year, but I definitely stop by a couple of times a month for goodies!

Here’s the info you’ll need to visit. Click the heading for additional information.

 Auburn International Farmers Market

June 12 to September 25
9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  Auburn Sound Transit Plaza, 23 A St SW

The Auburn International Farmers Market boasts more than 40 vendors offering a variety of fresh locally grown farm-based foods, hand-crafted items, and concession stand that are restaurant-based but feature a home-cooked taste. The 2011 weekly market starts June 12 and runs through September 25. The market will again include free performances, guest chef demonstrations with farm-fresh ingredients, children’s activities, and classes on health, nutrition, and gardening. AIFM 2011 Special Events June 12 Opening Day ceremonies begin at 8:30am June 19 – Sound Transit and Metro Appreciation Day July 10 – Kids Day July 24 – The Dog Days of Summer | Complete with the annual Parade of Market Dogs August 7 – National Farmers Market Week | Vendor Recognition Day September 11 Remembrance Day September 18 – Senior Appreciation Day

Kent Farmers Market, sponsored by the Kent Lions Club

Saturdays, June 4 to September 24
Town Square Plaza — 2nd Avenue &b Smith Street

When in Auburn and Kent, Take some time to visit each of these local sources for fresh foods and produce. After all, Farmer’s Markets are “Springing” Up All Over!

 

 

 

 

It’s a Blue Balloon Weekend!

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Blue balloons should begin flying tomorrow in recognition of the National Realtor© Open House weekend and to point folks to those properties participating in the event all across the country. Not only is this a good time to showcase listings, but I’ve armed my actively searching Buyer clients with handfuls of business cards so that they can be comfortable touring homes, as well.

Which brings to mind the question of the real purpose of open houses. Of course, ideally an open house event might spawn a buyer for the featured property. At the very least, open houses can be a dynamite way to pick up a new client or two.

In the most recent couple of years, however, I’ve backed off doing open houses. Yes, I still do them periodically, but not nearly as often as I used to. Why? Because no matter how well prepared I try to be – advertising the event, bringing the cookies, doing the homework, preparing the give-aways – the hours almost always go by with little more than a nod from a passing looky-loo.

5621 S 232nd Street, Kent, WA -- Open 1-3pm Saturday 6/4/11

This should be an interesting event. In our area … at least for me … this Spring season has been busy busy with new Buyers and listings. So I’m sincerely hopeful that the increase of activity will manifest itself over the weekend. It’d be fun (yikes!) to be slammed with folks looking to buy, wouldn’t it?

I curious as to whether you’re participating as well. What do you expect to see this weekend?

If you’re in the downtown Kent Washington area tomorrow afternoon, drop by to see me at 5621 S 232nd Street. I’ll bring the snacks, you bring the questions!

Sold! Foxy Townhouse in Kent!

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Promenade North is the sought-after community within The Lakes with townhouse living that fits all your easy lifestyle preferences — let someone else do the yard work and care for the roof!

Your new townhouse sits at the end of a four-unit building, providing corner windows for fantastic light.  When you come home after shopping, enter the private attached garage, then take just one step into the covered entry and your front door.

Once inside, the well-designed interior shines. Wood-laminate floors lead straight through to the kitchen, guest bath and laundry, and to the open living and dining rooms. Recently updated, the kitchen features solid surface counters, new cabinetry, and sparkling white appliances. A large pass-through with eating bar separates the kitchen from the dining room — keeps the cook part of all the living room activity!

Moving on to the dining and living room, you’ll appreciate the ceiling fan, angled walls and ample windows. In the living room is a wood-burning Heatilator fireplace (the owner says it’ll warm up the entire space in just a few minutes!) On clear days, walk through the sliding glass doors and out to your own patio and storage unit.

The art niche at the top of the stairway is the perfect place to display your favorite art piece … and leads down the short hallway to all of the bedroom areas. At one end is the master suite — large enough for a king-sized bed — with ceiling fan, generous closets and its own full bath with double vanity. At the opposite end of the hall are two secondary bedrooms, plus the 2nd full bath.

Promenade North is a professionally managed association. Your dues, of course, support the common areas of the community such as all of the green lawns, landscaping, and so on. Also included in your dues are Earthquake Insurance and Water and Sewer use.

This lovely lovely condomium/townhouse is perfectly set for a new owner. It’s not a bank-owned or short sale property, so will be an easy close! Ask your Buyer’s agent to show you this home before it’s gone! Or, call me personally for a tour — Gabrielle @ 206.300.8421

 

 

 

Click or Scan for Virtual Tour

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 
 

 

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New Carpet, New Roof, New Paint = New House for You!

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Look out over the neighborhood and into the distance from this corner-culdesac in the Kentridge/Glencarin area of Kent. Freshly painted with brand new carpeting and roof (to be completed prior to closing) = a clean, tidy, and move-in ready home just for you.

Along with the kitchen (complete with eating bar), the main floor of this classically-styled split-level home features large light-filled living and dining areas overlooking the neighborhood, along with three bedrooms, a full bath, and a 3/4 bath adjoining the master bedroom.

Downstairs is the gigantic family room (billiards anyone?) with its own fireplace and sliding doors leading to the flagstone patio and fenced backyard. You’ll appreciate the laundry & 1/2 bath combination, perfect for muddy, messy jobs! At the top of the 2-car garage are two extra rooms—rearrange doors and these two rooms can open to the laundry and family room, perhaps allowing for an additional bedroom? Be sure to verify all measurements, dimensions and sizes to your own satisfaction — it’s possible that these two extra rooms are not included in the home’s square footage.

Located in walking distance to Emerald Park Elementary and Kentridge High School; just a short bus commute to Meeker Middle School. Shopping and bus service is also close-by along with easy easy commuting to Highway 167, straight across the Kent valley and up the other side to I-5 and Sea-Tac airport. Downtown Seattle is approximately a 30 minute commute; with similar drive-time to Tacoma. … location, Location, LOCATION!

A one-year homeowner warranty, for your ease of mind will be provided by Gabrielle at closing free of charge to you!

NOT a short sale or bank-owned property — EASY, FAST PURCHASE FOR YOU!

Call or text Gabrielle at 206.300.8421 for a personal tour!

 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Click or Scan for Virtual Tour

 

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Bank Took This One Back!

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Links

  


Click Here to see the Virtual Tour
 

 

Photo Gallery

Eating Nook & Corner of Kitchen

Gas Fireplace in Family

Kitchen w/newer counters

Dining as seen from corner of Living room

Bonus Room

Master Bedroom

Master Bath

Back Deck
Description
The Bank took this one back and auctioned it for less than accept our much higher offer. Sometimes things just make no sense in the short sale world.

Bank approval was received today and this sale is READY! We have the attention of the bank negotiator too, he’ll move quickly if you do!!

At almost 2000 square feet, this is a BIG house for only $214,000. (Did I mention this price is APPROVED???) This rambler-styled home with fenced yard and great Timber Hills neighborhood, is located in convenient Covington, just minutes away from great shopping–Costco. Home Depot, Kohls–not to mention Highway 18 for easy commuting.

Through the front door is the main living area with the living, dining, kitchen, family, and laundry rooms, plus three bedrooms. In the master suite are an extra-long closet and recently updated 3/4 bath with tile floor & walk-in shower. Sliders just off the dining room lead to the fenced back yard, wonderful large deck with built-in seats, and patio.

Just four steps up and above the garage, is a huge 440 square foot bonus room, which could also be a very generous 4th bedroom as there are two deep walk-in closets.

Storage everywhere–There’s a pull-down attic stairway in the hallway leading to floored additional storage space. And a few steps down from the kitchen are an extra-deep double-door garage with openers, workbenches, shelves and storage.

You’ll need to replace the furnace, but the rest looks largely cosmetic. Should be a fairly easy fixer!

Features
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 1.75
Parking Spaces: 2
Year Built: 1986
Subdivision: Timber Hills
Lot Size: 8012
Garage Size: 440 sq ft
School District: Kent
Square Footage: 1970
Agent Name: Gabrielle Nemes
Broker: RE/MAX Select R.E.
MLS #: 11919

 

Location
Powered by vFlyer.com vFlyer Id: 3065900

Price Reduced! — I need a little work … but

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There’s GREAT potential here. A little TLC and you’ll have a wonderful home. Vaulted ceilings in living room, skylight over the stairs. Downstairs rec-room, plus a 1/2 bath. Big lot on greenbelt, plus HUGE 4-car tandum garage!

listing included courtesy of Dawn Rushton, RE/MAX Select R.E.