National REIA Caribbean Cruise

I am busy backing for my first cruise at sea! It is a voyage to the Caribbean on Royal Caribbean cruise lines, sponsored by the National Real Estate Investors Association. I am attending as the volunteer membership coordinator for our local real estate investment association, REAPS, who helped to underwrite my trip. National REIA's annual cruise has connected 5,000+ investors from more than 70 cities over the past twelve years. This Educational Conference unites real estate investors from all over the country and the world for an unparalleled learning experience. Here is the itinerary for the trip: Date Port Arrive Depart Sun, Feb 3 San Juan, Puerto Rico - 8:30 PM Mon, Feb 4 Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas 8:00 AM 5:00 PM Tue, Feb 5 Basseterre, St. Kitts 8:00 AM 5:00 PM Wed, Feb 6 At Sea - - Thu, Feb 7 Willemstad, Curacao 8:00 AM 7:00 PM Fri, Feb 8 Oranjestad, Aruba 8:00 AM 8:00 PM Sat, Feb 9 At Sea - - Sat, Feb 10 San Juan, Puerto Rico 6:00 AM - Check this blog spot where I hope to post updates of my adventure at sea!

Seattle #5 Market for Apartment Investment

Attention, multifamily investors! Marcus and Millichap just ranked Seattle #5 in the nation for investing in apartments. Check out the full report here: https://www.marcusmillichap.com/services/research/webreports/National/Apartment.aspx

My business partner Bob Malecki and I have also started a real estate investment fund to purchase both single family and multifamily properties in the Seattle area, and in other cashflowing areas of the country. For more information, please see our website at www.reicapitalusa.com

The Easiest Way to Get Started in Real Estate Investing

The easiest way to get started in real estate investment is by finding properties that more experienced buyers want to buy. Experienced investors are able to handle more complex aspects of the real estate investment, from negotiating with sellers, writing up offers, hiring contractors to rehab the property, doing property management, to marketing the property for sale. Much of the complexity of real estate investing can be overwhelming to the new investor. But by focusing on the first step of the process – that is, by finding a good deal – the new investor can get great practice and even coaching from more experienced investors. Finding a good deal is a time-consuming process. Yet it is critical to a successful deal. If it were easy to find good deals everyone would do it. But often good deals are not the easiest ones to find. They are typically not retail listings found on the Multiple List Service. The best deals are those that have a motivated seller, a distressed property, and/or that of which the competition is unaware. How to find these deals? All investors have heard “it’s a numbers game. “ And it is. Most investors have to look at a hundred or more properties to find one that is suitable for a purchase. Because the process is so time-consuming, most investors will pay “bird dogs” or wholesalers to send them leads. To become a “bird dog,” simply find an investor looking for properties to buy, whether these are residential or commercial. Find out what it is that they are looking to buy, what kind of investing they do. If they answer, “a good deal anywhere in King, Snohomish, Kitsap or Pierce counties,” move on. This response is much too general to provide good direction for a new investor. Look for something more specific. For example, I specialize in Seattle properties. I am looking for 3 bedroom, 2 bath homes in the City of Seattle, below median home price (in Seattle, this is typically under $450K), in any condition, preferably with a garage and not located on a busy arterial. I am looking for motivated sellers, who either have no equity (meaning they probably bought their house between 2004 and 2008), or they own it free and clear (meaning they have probably owned it for more than twenty years). For every qualified lead that a bird dog sends me, I will pay a finder’s fee. The finder does not have to get the property under contract. If the finder is able to negotiate a contract – and has done a good job of negotiating a contract – then I may pay an assignment fee to purchase the contract. I may also purchase a property from a wholesale seller who bought the property at a discount and is selling it to me at a discount. This is known as selling a property wholesale. I often encourage my bird dogs to check “for sale by owner” (FSBO) ads on Craigslist or other FSBO sites. They can search for terms such as “must sell,” “motivated seller,” “medical issues force sale,” “downsizing,” “major fixer,” etc. Bird dogs can then email or call the seller directly to find out how long the seller has owned the house, why they are selling, and most importantly, if we were to pay cash, what is the least amount of money they would accept for their property? Good responses here may signify a possible deal, and I will pay for leads if the investor does not know how to analyze the deal beyond this information.

Not only can a new investor get paid to find good deals, but in the process they are learning about the value of properties in their market. They are learning, with the help of the more experienced investor, what makes a good deal or good value in investing. They get good coaching from the buyer, and see how that investor makes money on a deal. Being a “bird dog” or wholesaling a property is a great way for a new investor to get started in real estate investment.

FREE Real Estate Tax Planning Seminar TOMORROW

I attended this tax seminar a few weeks ago, along with several dozen other real estate professionals and investors. Unlike most of them, I followed up; and yesterday had a phone conversation with presenter James Harnsberger. What I learned could save me over $40,000 in tax savings and refunds. Needless to say, I was impressed.

Give it a shot yourself. You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain.

Primary topic for the evening will be Real Estate Tax Planning and how the implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (commonly known as Obamacare) plus additional tax law changes of 2014-2015 will impact your business today and the next five years. James HARNSBERGER will discuss passive activity rules, material participation rules and the special tax status of the ‘real estate professional’ designation.

Here is the promo on the session tomorrow evening: Aquila Legacy Group, Inc. and REIF present James HARNSBERGER of JSN & Associates - Introduction to Real Estate Tax PlanningHave you or yours read this: http://news.goldworth.com/breaking-news-2013/ ?

If what you thought to be true turned out not to be true, when would you want to know?

If you said now, I mean the ‘really now’ and not the now-because-I-know-that’s-what-I-think-the-answer-is or what-you’re-expecting-me-to-say, or worst of all, because-that’s-what-I-think-the-rest-of-the-crowd- would-say…then we’ll see you here http://epicsystem1.eventbrite.com to hear the true answer and most likely, the right solution.

BE that person willing to go against the tide to find the truth so you can share the truth, that can impact someone’s life for years to come…

DO what you would want the other person to do if the shoe were on the other foot, if the roles were reversed…and it was something you needed to be hear.

HAVE what is rightfully yours, what you’ve worked for and more importantly earned; because to do better you have to know better while playing by their rules. But, don’t you need to know the rules?

If your answer is yes, come see us this coming Wednesday right here: http://epicsystem1.eventbrite.com.
Wednesday, January 23, 6-9pm
Master Builders Association at 335 116th Ave. SE in Bellevue, WA 98004 @ 425.451.7920

Today's Orientation to REAPS

Another successful orientation for new real estate investors to the membership benefits and resources of the Real Estate Association of Puget Sound (REAPS). Approximately 30 new investors attended today's free training in the Lake City neighborhood of Seattle. As volunteer membership coordinator for REAPS, I have been responsible for organizing this quarterly event for the past three years.

I collected ten of the evaluations submitted by today's attendees, but there may have been some that were handed in after I left. Overall, we got excellent ratings on how easy were the topics to understand (3.8 out of 4.0), suitability of content re: learning more about REAPS (3.9), topics covered in sufficient detail (3.9), and overall rating of all topics (3.8). Everyone would recommend this meeting to others, and some of the specific written comments included:

"All presenters were very well-spoken and knowledgeable. I'm motivated and can't wait to get started!"

"Mike's bit at the end w/2 simple strategies and a call to action was great. Consider making that a regular part of the Orientation agenda."

Mike Sumsky's session at the end of the meeting lasted one hour. While not strictly REAPS orientation, it is the kind of training and overview that new investors need to take the tools they just learned and start to apply them. The responses indicate that new investors want this content - but whether or not they would pay to receive it is unknown. Approximately half the audience stayed 1/2 hour past the scheduled end time to attend.

Mike gave an overview of various techniques he uses to purchase properties for residential flips. He then gave the following assignment for participants to speak with 3-5 sellers, each and every week. He recommended using Craigslist to find sellers.

He asked participants to ask the sellers these three questions:
--How long have you owned the house?
--Why are you selling?
--If I paid cash and could close within two weeks, what is the lowest price you would accept?

I also offered participants the opportunity to meet with me and my business partner Bob Malecki during our office hours in downtown Seattle next Wednesday to discuss investment goals and opportunities.

The next FREE REAPS orientation will be scheduled in March. In the mean time, don't forget to download your copy of my eBook "Doing Your First Deal" from Amazon, free through tomorrow only! Otherwise, just $2.99.

To learn more about anything here, please contact me at HomeLandInvestment@gmail.com

FREE Investor eBook!

This Saturday and Sunday, I will be offering a promotion to download a FREE copy of my eBook on Amazon entitled "Doing Your First Deal (A Series for the New Real Estate Investor)."

This book is a compilation of the first 15 articles I wrote for the monthly newsletter for the Real Estate Association of Puget Sound. This ongoing series of articles is also entitled "Doing Your First Deal."

The eBook is offered as a Kindle edition that normally retails for $2.99. You do not need a Kindle reader, and will be able to download to your computer. To order your copy, click on this link:

http://www.amazon.com/Doing-Series-Estate-Investor-ebook/dp/B0085N86XM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1358527897&sr=8-1&keywords=doing+your+first+deal

FREE Real Estate Investor Training

The Real Estate Association of Puget Sound is offering a FREE ORIENTATION this Saturday, January 19 for novice investors, new members and guests designed to help the novice real estate investor make full use of the membership resources and benefits of REAPS in order to jump start their career as a real estate investor. Members of the public are welcome to attend.

REAPS is the oldest – and largest - professional association for the real estate investor this side of the Mississippi. As a not-for-profit association, REAPS aims to motivate and support REAPS members and guests through education, discussion, legislative action and networking. REAPS hosts over 40 live events a year around Puget Sound and they are all open to the public.

Attendees will receive a free eBook, compiling articles on DOING YOUR FIRST DEAL originally published in the REAPS newsletter. These articles help the novice real estate investor start making offers on real estate deals. Today’s market offers enormous opportunities to buy low, choose from a large inventory, and finance at historically low rates.

Speakers at the orientation include practicing real estate investors who will highlight the membership resources most important to new investors.

This FREE ORIENTATION will be held from 10:30am - 1 pm, Saturday, January 19 at the Lake City branch of Seattle Public Library, 12501 28th Ave. N.E. in Seattle. There is plenty of free parking in the underground garage or on the street. Because space is limited for this event, please RSVP in advance at the REAPS website www.reapsweb.com.

For more information, please contact Katherine Swanberg, REAPS President at 425-260-3121 or Wendy Ceccherelli, volunteer Membership Coordinator, at HomeLandInvestment@gmail.com or 888-621-4999.

* * * * Who: Open to members of the public interested in real estate investing; sponsored by the Real Estate Association of Puget Sound
What: Free Real Estate Investing Workshop
When: 10:30 am – 1 pm, Saturday, January 19
Where: Lake City branch, Seattle Public Library, 12501 28th Av NE
Why: Today’s housing market provides unparalleled opportunities for real estate investment

High End Condo Rental in Ballard

Here is another property that I am managing in a great Ballard location:

Location is everything! 1 BR condo with hardwoods in the heart of Ballard with free covered parking. Description • 1 bedroom, 1 bath, W/D, balcony, covered parking spot • Hardwood floors throughout with granite, tile and wood cabinets • Spacious bedroom has a nice closet and easily handles a bed, bedside tables, dresser, and chest of drawers • Bath has tile, granite and good water pressure • Single story design features a kitchen with a bar, high- end stainless appliances, dishwasher, garbage disposal, microwave and granite counter tops • Living/dining room with nice light • Deck off the living room • Covered parking space • Friendly neighbors Location • Walking distance to Ballard neighborhood bus stops including the Microsoft Connector • Ride your bike or walk to Ballard Ave., Golden Gardens, the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks or Swedish Medical Center • Blocks away from Ballard Commons Park, QFC (24/7), Bartell's, Java Bean, Café Besalu, dry cleaners, banks and several gyms Rental Details • Available February 1st • One year lease • No pets or smoking. PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE A SHOWING: 206-743-1153 or email wpsands@gmail.com Showings most nights by appt from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM during the week or during the weekends from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM.

For more info, please see:
http://www.postlets.com/rtpb/8665384

Seattle Top Market for Real Estate Investment

Once again, Seattle stands as one of the nation’s top real estate investment markets. Overall, Seattle ranked No. 7 nationally by the Urban Land Institute for investment, development and homebuilding, according to the Seattle Times. Seattle's attractiveness comes from having a diverse economy, high quality of life and being one of the nation’s “brain power centers.”

To read more:
http://seattletimes.com/html/businesstechnology/2019468862_biztaltoncol21xml.html

NWMLS Reports Housing Market Up as Investors, First-Time Buyers Return

More good news from the NWMLS:

KIRKLAND, Wash. (January 7, 2013) – Home buyers around western Washington made offers on 5,314 residences during December, outnumbering the 3,857 owners who listed their homes for sale. The imbalance helped push up prices and further thin already depleted inventory.

While the expected seasonal slowdown occurred last month, determined buyers were undaunted by sparse inventory and record-breaking rainy days, according to December statistics from Northwest Multiple Listing Service.

“This is a unique housing market,” said J. Lennox Scott, chairman and CEO of John L. Scott Real Estate. “There is nothing normal about the combination of factors fueling the current market,” he added.

MLS members reported 5,314 pending sales of single family homes and condominiums last month for a modest year-over-year increase of 1.5 percent. That volume of mutually accepted offers fell from November’s total of 6,522, but far exceeded the number of new listings, 3,857, that members added to the MLS system during December. It also marked an unprecedented fourth straight month when pending sales outnumbered new listings.

MLS members tallied 5,267 closed sales during December, outgaining the same month a year ago by 526 transactions for an increase of about 11.1 percent. The 2012 total of 64,624 closed sales was 14.8 percent higher than the volume reported for 2011.

Brokers expect the housing market rebound to continue, while cautioning sellers to refrain from becoming too greedy and expressing hope for “controlled natural growth” to sustain the recovery. They also believe distressed properties, rising rents and re-engaged investors will have an impact on activity for the foreseeable future.

“Buyers are taking note of sellers who overprice their homes,” reported Northwest MLS director Darin Stenvers. “These buyers are not wasting their time looking at that section of the market for fear of losing a “turnkey ready” home that they can buy and close on,” added Stenvers, the office managing broker at John L. Scott, Inc. in Bellingham.

Frank Wilson, another member of the Northwest MLS board of directors and the managing broker at John L. Scott’s Poulsbo’s branch, noted similar shifts in attitudes about distressed properties. He said many buyers are no longer considering short sales or bank owned property because of the uncertainty and complexity of those transactions, opting instead to focus on non-distressed listings that would likely close in a more reasonable and more predictable timeframe. “I think as time goes by the short sale and bank owned home will become more and more of an investor target,” he remarked.

Even with distressed properties (and the lower prices they usually fetch) being part of the mix of sales, median sales prices are edging up. Last month’s buyers paid more for their home than purchasers of a year ago, and the number of properties that sold for a million dollars or more jumped nearly 56 percent, rising from 68 in December 2011 to 106 last month.

The median price area-wide was $255,000, up 13.3 percent from twelve months ago when the price was $225,000. Prices rose by double digits in ten of the 21 counties in the Northwest MLS service area. Homes and condos that sold in King County commanded the highest prices at $342,000, reflecting a gain of more than 17.5 percent.

For single family homes (excluding condos), the median selling price rose $30,000 system-wide (about 12.8 percent) climbing from $235,000 a year ago to $265,000.

In King County, the median sales price of a single family home jumped nearly 18.8 percent, from $320,000 to $380,046. Within the county, the biggest increases on single family homes that sold were reported in Skyway/Bryn Mawr area (up 89.8 percent), Central Seattle (up 50.2 percent), Vashon (up 35.6 percent), Bellevue west of I-405 (up 28.6 percent) and Burien-Normandy Park (up 26.9 percent).

Prices and the number of multiple offers may be rising in part because of shrinking inventory. At the end of December, there were only 17,718 properties for sale, which compares to 26,639 active listings for the same time a year ago (down 33.5 percent). Months of supply declined to 3.3 months, down from about 5 months of supply for the same period a year ago.

In Snohomish County, year-over-year inventory was down more than 53 percent, while in King County the selection was about half the year ago levels: 3,801 listings versus 7,472.

Looking ahead, many brokers expect a strong market in 2013, with some expressing concern about “frenzied bubble growth.”

“Last year was the best year in real estate for both buyers and sellers since 2007, with better pricing for homes, lower interest rates than ever recorded in history, and best of all, the opinion the market has finally bottomed out,” said MLS director George Moorhead, branch manager at Bentley Properties in Bothell. Those factors combined to “start a buyer frenzy” from February to mid-August, he noted, but added, “We never quite got that level of excitement back for the months of September to December.”

Moorhead expects a “traditionally slow” January as buyers and sellers start to “build energy to make the next move.” He fears another “perfect storm” with double-digit appreciation will return, but prefers “controlled natural growth” as the best recipe for long term economic stabilization, “not frenzied bubble growth with no foundation for support.”

Wilson said he expects an exciting spring real estate market in Kitsap County, citing the imbalance between inventory and buyers and record low interest rates. “The numbers are lined up for a bit of a frenzy,” which he believes will lead to shortages of homes in some areas and some price ranges.

Low unemployment, less inventory, low interest rates and rising rents are among factors that will create a strong housing market in 2013, Stenvers suggested. The return of first-time buyers who find it is becoming cheaper to own than rent and the imminent multi-billion dollar settlement involving foreclosure mishandlings by 14 banks also bode well for a more balanced recovery, he noted.

“We will see a continuation of year 2012 market conditions throughout 2013,” declared Scott. “Historically low interest rates, healthy job growth, a shortage of homes for sale in many areas and price ranges, strong sales activity from both local home buyers and residential investors are creating multiple offers and price increases in areas with inventory shortages,” he noted.

Another positive indicator brokers noted is improving builder confidence. It recently rose to its highest level in more than six years, according to a National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo survey released last month. Although newly built homes account for only a small portion of the housing market, they are considered to be a leading revenue and job creator. Each home built creates an average of three jobs for a year and generates about $90,000 in tax revenue, according to NAHB research.

Northwest Multiple Listing Service, owned by its member real estate firms, is the largest full-service MLS in the Northwest. Its membership includes more than 21,000 real estate brokers. The organization, based in Kirkland, Wash., currently serves 21 counties in Washington state.

Investors: Do your Due Diligence!

“Due diligence” in real estate refers to the process of learning enough about a property to determine that the superficial value of purchase price or rental rate matches the reality of the condition of that real estate. Whether you are renting an apartment, purchasing a primary residence, buying a single family house to flip, or purchasing a commercial property, you will have to do some level of due diligence to arrive at a purchase price. The due diligence process is a spectrum of activity and review that depends on the nature of the real estate transaction being contemplated. An apartment dweller may simply tour the property, test out a few appliances to be sure they work, review the lease documents, and then agree to the transaction once these inspections have been done. An apartment rental is less of an investment and typically less permanent, than purchasing a primary residence or a commercial investment property, for example. Hence, the due diligence is much simpler. If the rental is for longer than one year, the lease agreement must be notarized and an inspection is often recommended. When someone is buying a primary residence, due diligence is likely to include much more than a quick walk-through with their broker. The homebuyers will probably want to see some research on comparables, that is, what other similar homes have recently sold for in this neighborhood. They will probably want information on the neighborhood, demographic trends, schools in the area and crime statistics. They may want to know how far the property is located from employment, schools or night life; whether it is on public transit lines or has a high walk score; and whether there are parks, libraries or other amenities nearby. Unless they are a real estate professional familiar with construction, inspection or appraisal, they will probably hire a home inspector to check for any defects in construction or workmanship. The inspection should include a pest inspection, as rodents, birds or wood-boring beetles may cause havoc with houses in this area. I usually recommend that homebuyers include a side sewer inspection during the inspection phase, especially In Seattle, with its older stock of housing and mature foliage. Tree roots can cause major damage to old clay sewer pipes. In many parts of the country, a radon inspection is also recommended, although it is much less of an issue in the Pacific Northwest. If there is a body of water located nearby, it would be good to check in with a hydrologist, or at least find out where the flood plain is located and whether there will be any problem getting flood insurance. Insurance agents can be helpful in dealing with many otherwise un-insurable issues such as steep slopes and critical areas that may affect a homebuyer’s ability to purchase insurance (or build on the property). Septic systems and water wells are more of an issue in rural areas, and should be inspected as well.

Seller disclosures can provide much information about what has been done to and what is known about the house. If there has been recent remodeling, were all necessary permits obtained? Federal law requires disclosures regarding lead paint and other hazardous materials such as asbestos used in houses built prior to 1978.

Checking the chain of title on a property may reveal liens, covenants, restrictions or easements that may affect the buyer’s use of the property. A check of the zoning may reveal opportunities to further develop the property in the future, or perhaps even a subdivided tax lot that the seller did not know about.

Due diligence on a commercial property may be even more complex, with various environmental reviews, surveys, and a review of sellers’ “books and records” to include leases, rent rolls, and maintenance records.

When working with contractors or partners, due diligence may include a review of business licenses, professional reviews, testimonials and personal references. If you are lending money, you may want to do the same due diligence on the collateral used to secure your loan, and on the borrower personally.

Always check references. Always. Ask me how I know….

Living in North Seattle

Living in North Seattle

The North side of Seattle is a place where tech savvy meets nature in the community. This area is strewn with dozens of neighborhood parks, beaches, including quick access to hiking, skiing, camping and more a short trip away in the mountains. As well as being in close proximity to major telecommunications and technology companies, like Microsoft, T-Mobile, and Boeing (just to name a few!).

North Seattle neighborhoods include: Ravenna, Roosevelt, Northgate, Maple Leaf, Ballard, Broadview, Fremont, Greenlake, Greenwood, Magnolia, Phinney Ridge, Wallingford, and even highlights the North-Central neighborhoods of Capitol Hill and Queen Anne. Attractions for these neighborhoods includes sites such as: the Space Needle, Seattle Center, South Lake Union Park, Kerry Park, Gas Works Park, Discovery Park, the Fremont Troll, the Lenin Statue, Fishermen’s Terminal, Ballard Locks and Gardens, Woodland Park Zoo, Green Lake, Golden Gardens Park, Carkeek Park, Matthews Beach, Magnuson Park, Ravenna Park, Burke Museum, UW Waterfront activities, Washington Park Arboretum.

The North side of Seattle boasts a place full of parks, historic and popular visitor landmarks, education, community, and more. Residents here have many reasons to love this area. The gardening and P-patch community is one that flourishes, inspired by the natural beauty throughout these neighborhoods. Community members are involved in businesses, community events, activities, and the greater good of the city. Many of the bloggers that are centered on these communities support and promote the efforts and caring of their neighbors, which no doubt play into the allure of the North side. Weekly Farmers’ Markets and seasonal street festivals are put on throughout the year support the community; which help to encourage sharing among diversity (both humans and pets!), foster new community programs and encourage growth among these determined and talented residents. Much local and small businesses hail in this area, making “home” a convenient and serviceable area. Surprisingly, these neighborhoods can even promote green and easy commutes!

Transportation from these areas into downtown and the airport is easy and frequent, making the commute options and travel time a non-issue for these community members. Neighborhoods in the north have many community groups and programs that encourage alternate commuting means like bike-riding, ride shares, and public transport. Even trips to the Edmonds ferry and Indian Casino fall in close range for long trips and commuters.

Even while the North side places great emphasis on families, the feel & caring of a small community, and outdoor activities; there is so much more to these neighborhoods. Neighborhoods in the North side of Seattle house some of the best bakeries, cafes, local shopping, markets, and neighborhood bars. Here, there is entertainment and services available for all kinds of people. Whether you’re looking for a good crafting shop, a small Norwegian bar, or a fun park to play in with your pets, the North side is a place that can’t be beat!

For a free list of North Seattle properties for sale, please contact me at HomeLandInvestment@gmail.com or call 888-621-4999.

All Inclusive Room Rental in Queen Anne

Open House Saturday 1-3pm: http://www.postlets.com/rtpb/8464815 Month-to-month room rental in this very cute four-bedroom two-bath home in one of Seattle's best neighborhoods. There are four rooms available for rent. Room rental rates range from $600 (basement) to $775, and include wireless internet and all utilities.

Lots of vintage charm and original architectural details.

Room Dimensions: Upstairs Rooms

Front Room is 10' 6" x 11' 10" ($775)

Back Room is 10' 6" x 11' 8" ($750)

Downstairs Rooms

Back Room is 11' 9" x 9' 10" ($650)

Center Room is 11' 9" x 9' 3" ($600)

Two bedrooms on the main floor with one full bath. Two more bedrooms downstairs with a 3/4 bath (shower, but no tub). The main floor has hardwoods throughout the living room, dining room and bedrooms.

Location is the best! Walk to nearby restaurants, shops and parks. Easy downtown commute!

Owner recently purchased this property and is making improvements. Move-in ready by January 1. All new tenants to be screened for criminal background, employment verification and landlord references.

From Mercer Street, go right on Fairview Ave N, Left on Valley St; Right on Westlake Ave N. Continue on Nickerson St; bear Left on Florentia; Left on 3rd Ave W; Right on W Smith St. From Highway 99, go Right on McGraw; Right on Smith.

First Time Home Buyer Workshop in Seattle

for artists!

First Time Home Buyer Workshop for Artists
Sponsored by Artist Trust
Using “Square Feet Seattle” as the curriculum
http://www.seattle.gov/arts/space/sqft_seattle.asp

6-8pm, Thursday, January 10, 2013
Velocity Dance Center, 1621 12th Avenue, Seattle

$8, members; $10, non-members

Presenters: Libby Gerber, Artist Trust Seattle Arts and Cultural Affairs Director Randy Engstrom Wendy Ceccherelli, Owner/Broker, ArtHaven Michelle Taul, Director’s Mortgage Garbo Grossman, Homestead Community Land Trust

Agenda:
(0:00-0:10) Welcome, Introductions, Purpose of Workshop (Artist Trust)
(0:10-0:20) Square Feet Seattle: Table of Contents (Randy Engstrom / Wendy Ceccherelli)
(0:20-0:30) Chapter One – Getting Ready (Ceccherelli)
(0:30-0:40) Chapter Two – Worksheets for Buying and Leasing (Ceccherelli)
(0:40-0:50) Chapter Five – Finding Property (Ceccherelli)
(0:50-0:55) Chapter Four – Working with an Agent (Ceccherelli)
(0:55-1:05) Chapter Eleven – Ownership Models (Ceccherelli)
(1:05-1:15) Chapter Three – Credit (Michelle Taul- Director’s Mortgage)
(1:15-1:35) Chapters Nine and Ten – Residential Mortgages (Taul)
(1:35-1:50) Chapter Eight – Buying Residential Real Estate (Garbo Grossman - Homestead)
(1:50-2:00) Q&A
(02:00) Adjourn

Living in Downtown Seattle

Happy New Year!

I love living in this city - and I love helping people find the housing arrangement that works best for them. For some, the allure of living right in the heart of downtown Seattle is irresistible....

Have you ever longed to live in luxury, with the hustle and swing of the city, but the convenience of living in a central location? Downtown Seattle is one of the BEST cities in the United States which offers you convenience, services, luxury, and a unique community that just won’t quit!

Downtown Seattle is unique in that it hosts major businesses, several sports and event venues, parks, waterfront tourism/services, outdoor markets, great pubs, bars, restaurants, and cafes galore. Entertainment is never ending in this sleepless city. Theaters, opera, ballet, movie houses, outdoor concerts, festivals, art galleries, and community events are boundless in the downtown area. For those that are more into finding the unique deals and boutiques of an area; Downtown Seattle has that too! Local shops, markets, and buskers (street vendors) give great diversity to any person’s shopping experience. Whether you’re looking for a gift, a memory, or a quiet spot to take in the sights, Downtown Seattle stretches its boundaries to suit your needs.

In the central area, businesses are surrounded by unique shops, eats, and art exhibits both in store fronts and out on the streets. Near the south side a large International district that hosts many wonderful eateries, gift shops, discount prices, and Seattle’s large sporting/events venues: Convention Center, Mariner’s & Seahawks/Sounders stadiums. In the northern part of downtown, just passed Seattle’s famous Pike’s Place Market, the Seattle Center and Space Needle sit a short distance away from the hub of skyscrapers. This area hosts an unbelievable amount of entertainment and services; from festivals and concerts to grocery stores, chic cafes, dinner theater and more!

Even with the compact and busy nature of the downtown area, transportation and commutes around here are A+! With transportation options like the light rail, monorail, South Lake Union Transit, biking, bus, the Duck, car, and more; makes this area popular for all types of commuters! Condos dominate this trendy market, making living in downtown Seattle possible almost anywhere, from next to the Space Needle to a top a high-rise, or even in historic buildings!

The housing market in Downtown Seattle is in a higher price range than most of Seattle, however you pay for convenience, amenities, security, and the lifestyle. It’s no wonder, with a draw like Seattle’s downtown area that this housing market is 7th in the nation according to 2013 Emerging Trends in Real Estate report. Median home sales price start around $550K, with the average rentals starting around $2000-$2500.

With this hot market, there’s no time to delay. This time last year only 28 units were available for rent in ALL of downtown. Don’t miss the small window of opportunity to get into this alluring spot, where downtown living and Seattle’s unique atmosphere combine to create a great lifestyle value!

For a FREE list of properties for sale in downtown Seattle, please contact HomeLandInvestment@gmail.com or call me at 425-270-7292.

Happy New Year!