My last post on Emergency Preparedness for your home got me to thinking about travel preparedness as well... especially in the winter when a breakdown can be more dangerous to your health and safety.
I found an article on the Department of Motor Vehicle website that has a comprehensive list of things to put in an emergency preparedness kit for your car. You probably aren't going to actually carry them ALL, but please read through the article and highlight the ones you really think you might need, based on your personal travel habits.
Stay safe and warm this winter while on the road.
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee area MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Wenatchee Real Estate: Emergency Preparedness
As the cold weather rolls in to our region, it brings to my mind the need to be prepared for possible emergencies, such as powers outages or a storm that could cause you to become home-bound for a few days. Peace of mind is a wonderful thing when it comes to finding yourself in an emergency situation.
I found a good article on this subject at HouseLogic. I encourage you to check it out and, if you don't already have one, please consider having an emergency preparedness kit in your home.
Stay safe and warm!
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee area MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
I found a good article on this subject at HouseLogic. I encourage you to check it out and, if you don't already have one, please consider having an emergency preparedness kit in your home.
Stay safe and warm!
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee area MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Wenatchee Real Estate: November statistics
The November Snapshot from Pacific Appraisal Associates in Wenatchee is out. You really need to see it to analyze it, so click on the link above. For the most part, the market is fairly flat but if you just look at some of the "percentage" numbers, it can be deceiving.
The report is divided into the "MLS Market Totals" and "Wenatchee Market Totals",and taking both into consideration will reveal the most accurate picture of what is happening in the entire Wenatchee Valley. The MLS Market area is greater than just Wenatchee. It includes the surrounding areas... Cashmere, Leavenworth, Waterville, and some Chelan.
For example, the number of Mobile Homes sold last month is up 11%. However, there were 10 sold this year and 9 sold the same month last year. So, one unit isn't significant one way or the other.
The statistic to watch is going to be number of homes listed. That is the noticeably declining number and can affect supply and demand, causing prices to increase. This is indicating if you or someone you know is interested in buying, making a decision sooner rather than later could be beneficial.
Interest rates are still good, so it IS a good time to buy.
Please continue to stay warm and safe this winter!
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee area MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
The report is divided into the "MLS Market Totals" and "Wenatchee Market Totals",and taking both into consideration will reveal the most accurate picture of what is happening in the entire Wenatchee Valley. The MLS Market area is greater than just Wenatchee. It includes the surrounding areas... Cashmere, Leavenworth, Waterville, and some Chelan.
For example, the number of Mobile Homes sold last month is up 11%. However, there were 10 sold this year and 9 sold the same month last year. So, one unit isn't significant one way or the other.
The statistic to watch is going to be number of homes listed. That is the noticeably declining number and can affect supply and demand, causing prices to increase. This is indicating if you or someone you know is interested in buying, making a decision sooner rather than later could be beneficial.
Interest rates are still good, so it IS a good time to buy.
Please continue to stay warm and safe this winter!
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee area MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Wenatchee Real Estate: Maintenance Time
It's hard to imagine, but here we are at the first of November already! I thought it would be useful to share a few maintenance reminders.
1. Inspect the Chimney: Always have your chimney and it's cap inspected (and cleaned and serviced if necessary) before going into a new winter season. Without proper maintenance, water can get behind the crown and drip down into the interior framing, causing mold and rot that can be extremely expensive to repair later. In addition, if the interior of the chimney is not properly maintained, embers can get into the framing and cause a house fire.
2. Prevent Ice Daming: Ice daming is fairly simple to avoice by taking the necessary steps to keep the entire roof the same temperature as the eaves. It involves a combination of ventilation, insulation and sealing warm air leaks from the interior of the home. Here is a link to additional information on preventing ice daming. Also clean the gutters to avoid water back up against the roof. It is better to have no gutters than improperly maintaned gutters. Can you spell D-I-S-A-S-T-E-R ?
3. Inspect Water Shut Off Valves: Be sure you know where your water shut off valves are and that they work properly. If you experience frozen pipes, when they thaw out your pipes will probably burst spewing water everywhere. You need to know where the main water valve is and that it is working properly. Be sure everyone in your household knows too! While you're at it, be sure the water supply valves behind toilets, in the kitchen and the laundry room work properly.
Hope these tips help!
Stay warm and safe this winter!
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee area MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
1. Inspect the Chimney: Always have your chimney and it's cap inspected (and cleaned and serviced if necessary) before going into a new winter season. Without proper maintenance, water can get behind the crown and drip down into the interior framing, causing mold and rot that can be extremely expensive to repair later. In addition, if the interior of the chimney is not properly maintained, embers can get into the framing and cause a house fire.
2. Prevent Ice Daming: Ice daming is fairly simple to avoice by taking the necessary steps to keep the entire roof the same temperature as the eaves. It involves a combination of ventilation, insulation and sealing warm air leaks from the interior of the home. Here is a link to additional information on preventing ice daming. Also clean the gutters to avoid water back up against the roof. It is better to have no gutters than improperly maintaned gutters. Can you spell D-I-S-A-S-T-E-R ?
3. Inspect Water Shut Off Valves: Be sure you know where your water shut off valves are and that they work properly. If you experience frozen pipes, when they thaw out your pipes will probably burst spewing water everywhere. You need to know where the main water valve is and that it is working properly. Be sure everyone in your household knows too! While you're at it, be sure the water supply valves behind toilets, in the kitchen and the laundry room work properly.
Hope these tips help!
Stay warm and safe this winter!
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee area MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Wenatchee Real Estate: Fractional Ownership
In my last post, I wrote about the vacation rental investment opportunity. If that is something of interest, but you don't have the funds to pull it off yourself, you might consider "fractional" (shared) ownership. You can pool with a group of friends, or purchase a fractional resale.
Here is a link to a good article on the Pros and Cons of Fractional Ownership.
There are a lot of ways to invest in real estate, and they are all good if done properly.
I would love to answer your real estate questions.
Happy Investing...
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Here is a link to a good article on the Pros and Cons of Fractional Ownership.
There are a lot of ways to invest in real estate, and they are all good if done properly.
I would love to answer your real estate questions.
Happy Investing...
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Wenatchee Real Estate: Vacation Rentals
Have you ever thought of buying a vacation home? There is a huge market for this kind of property, especially in destinations like Wenatchee, Chelan and Leavenworth where there are vacationers coming year round.
If you own a vacation home, in a popular destination, you can use it when it's convenient for you and rent it the rest of the year. The rental income can cover a significant amount (or all) of the cost of owning the property.
Check out the Vacation Rental By Owner website. Do a search for any city (perhaps your city) and see what a huge market this is.
Also check out a couple other articles I found about the vacation rental option:
7 Tips for Buying the Perfect Vacation Rental
How To Market Your Vacation Rental
5 Simple Ways to Maximize Your Vacation Rental Profits
An Introduction To Investing in Vacation Rentals (A Podcast)
Well, that should give you a good start on thinking about the vacation rental investment option.
I'd love to answer any questions you may have about local real estate in the Wenatchee valley and surrounding areas.
Happy Investing...
Erin Davidson
If you own a vacation home, in a popular destination, you can use it when it's convenient for you and rent it the rest of the year. The rental income can cover a significant amount (or all) of the cost of owning the property.
Check out the Vacation Rental By Owner website. Do a search for any city (perhaps your city) and see what a huge market this is.
Also check out a couple other articles I found about the vacation rental option:
7 Tips for Buying the Perfect Vacation Rental
How To Market Your Vacation Rental
5 Simple Ways to Maximize Your Vacation Rental Profits
An Introduction To Investing in Vacation Rentals (A Podcast)
Well, that should give you a good start on thinking about the vacation rental investment option.
I'd love to answer any questions you may have about local real estate in the Wenatchee valley and surrounding areas.
Happy Investing...
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free Search of entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Free Search of entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Wenatchee Real Estate: Buying Misconceptions
Do you have these two misconceptions about buying a home in Wenatchee?
1: I don't need a home inspection if I am buying a new construction.
Although newly constructed homes don't have the "age" related issues as resale homes, a home inspection is still a very valuable tool in identifying any quality of construction issues. New construction home inspections have revealed termite infected lumber to have been used, faulty roof installation, and subpar construction practices and... believe it or not... that the sewer line was never hooked up! Don't ever let anyone talk you out of having a home inspection... ever! And, by-the-way... you absolutely should attend the inspection. You will learn soooo much about your new home.
2: Comparing the cost of Rent vs Mortgage Payment is the best way to determine whether I should buy a home or keep renting.
Calculating the cost of renting is much simpler than calculating the "net" investment required to buy a home. When you buy a home, the mortgage payment is only one piece of your investment. You must also take into consideration the cost of insurange and taxes and, of course, ongoing maintenance and optional improvements. When you buy a home, there are significant tax benefits which offset much of the cost of buying a home. Rent is pure "cost", with no tax or investment benefit. Consulting with your accountant or financial planner can help you identify the "net" investment in purchasing a home.
I would love to answer any of your real estate questions.
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free Search of entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free Search of entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Wenatchee Real Estate: 2014 3rd Quarter report
Here is the link to the complete Pacific Appraisal Associates report on monthly and year-to-date Wenatchee area real estate activity through September of this year. This is the October report, but includes statistics for activity through September, the end of the third quarter of 2014.
Wenatchee appears to have a pretty healthy real estate market. Inventory volume is down, and prices have increased. This has caused the average days-on-market to decrease AND the total number of months of inventory to decline. If interest rates continue to stay down and inventory continues to decrease, we will most likely continue to see a trend toward higher prices.
I am always happy to answer questions about the current real estate market.
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free Search of entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Wenatchee appears to have a pretty healthy real estate market. Inventory volume is down, and prices have increased. This has caused the average days-on-market to decrease AND the total number of months of inventory to decline. If interest rates continue to stay down and inventory continues to decrease, we will most likely continue to see a trend toward higher prices.
I am always happy to answer questions about the current real estate market.
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free Search of entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Wenatchee Real Estate: Creating Wealth Through Investments
Real Estate is one of the surest ways of creating future wealth than any other thing I can think of. It isn't even difficult, with a realistic plan, AND dedicated and disciplined execution. A real estate portfolio can truly be your ticket to a secure retirement.
Have you ever considered investing in Wenatchee real estate but don't have the funds to get started? Here is a link to an article that outlines several sources of real estate investment funding. It's worth a read, and may get your creative juices flowing and be the motivation you need to get serious about creating financial security through real estate.
It is also worth subscribing the the Bigger Pockets Blog, for a daily dose of investment knowledge and motivation.
When you are ready to discuss some real estate investment options, please give me a call and let's discuss all the possibilities.
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free Search of entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Have you ever considered investing in Wenatchee real estate but don't have the funds to get started? Here is a link to an article that outlines several sources of real estate investment funding. It's worth a read, and may get your creative juices flowing and be the motivation you need to get serious about creating financial security through real estate.
It is also worth subscribing the the Bigger Pockets Blog, for a daily dose of investment knowledge and motivation.
When you are ready to discuss some real estate investment options, please give me a call and let's discuss all the possibilities.
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free Search of entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Wenatchee Real Estate: What is a Reverse Mortgage?
Question: What is a Reverse Mortgage?
Answer: A "reverse mortgage" is a home loan that allows people 62 years and older to tap into the equity of their home, without making loan payments. A reverse mortgage provides cash payments to the homeowners, based on the equity value in the home. Homeowners can defer payments on the loan until they die or sell the home. Upon the owners death, their heirs either give up ownership to the home or must refinance the home to purchase the title from the reverse mortgage holder.
This option can be very beneficial to senior citizens who own their homes, but are on a limited income and need the income from the equity of their home to make ends meet. It can be a complicated instrument, so be sure to clearly understand ALL terms and conditions before making a decision.
Please contact me if you have any Wenatchee real estate questions.
Best Regards,
Erin Davison
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Answer: A "reverse mortgage" is a home loan that allows people 62 years and older to tap into the equity of their home, without making loan payments. A reverse mortgage provides cash payments to the homeowners, based on the equity value in the home. Homeowners can defer payments on the loan until they die or sell the home. Upon the owners death, their heirs either give up ownership to the home or must refinance the home to purchase the title from the reverse mortgage holder.
This option can be very beneficial to senior citizens who own their homes, but are on a limited income and need the income from the equity of their home to make ends meet. It can be a complicated instrument, so be sure to clearly understand ALL terms and conditions before making a decision.
Please contact me if you have any Wenatchee real estate questions.
Best Regards,
Erin Davison
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Wenatchee Real Estate: Q & A
Question: What is the difference between a mortgage "re-finance" and a "loan modification".
Answer:
A "refinance" is creating a completely new loan, and paying off the current loan. It is, essentially, just like getting the original loan. You have to go through the same process. This is most often done when interest rates decline and/or the loan amount falls below 80% of the property value. When the loan is higher than 80% of the value, it is necessary to pay "mortgage insurance", which is an additional cost you don't need to pay as the loan amount declines and the value increases. This is called "loan-to-value" ratio. The major drawback of a refinance is the "refinancing fees". Be careful that the refinancing fees don't outweigh the benefits of refinancing the mortgage. It can add thousands of dollars on to the loan balance, even if the payments are less.
A "loan modification" is rewiting the terms of your current loan. A lender may consider this option if your financial situation has changed and the mortgage payment is now creating a financial "hardship". The "hardship" factor is the key to a "loan modification", and must be documented. Factors such as a job loss or medical bills may be causing a financial hardship. In a loan modification, the lender may reduce the interest rate and/or increase the amount of time allowed to repay.
It is always helpful to talk to a professional loan specialist or housing counselor in order to get all the most current information and determine the best option for each individual situation.
Next up: What is a "reverse mortgage"?
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Home for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Answer:
A "refinance" is creating a completely new loan, and paying off the current loan. It is, essentially, just like getting the original loan. You have to go through the same process. This is most often done when interest rates decline and/or the loan amount falls below 80% of the property value. When the loan is higher than 80% of the value, it is necessary to pay "mortgage insurance", which is an additional cost you don't need to pay as the loan amount declines and the value increases. This is called "loan-to-value" ratio. The major drawback of a refinance is the "refinancing fees". Be careful that the refinancing fees don't outweigh the benefits of refinancing the mortgage. It can add thousands of dollars on to the loan balance, even if the payments are less.
A "loan modification" is rewiting the terms of your current loan. A lender may consider this option if your financial situation has changed and the mortgage payment is now creating a financial "hardship". The "hardship" factor is the key to a "loan modification", and must be documented. Factors such as a job loss or medical bills may be causing a financial hardship. In a loan modification, the lender may reduce the interest rate and/or increase the amount of time allowed to repay.
It is always helpful to talk to a professional loan specialist or housing counselor in order to get all the most current information and determine the best option for each individual situation.
Next up: What is a "reverse mortgage"?
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Home for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth, Washington
Wenatchee Real Estate: September 2014 Report
Onward and upward...
Here is a link to the comprehensive Wenatchee housing market report for September 2014 (which reflects activity for August).
As you review the report for monthly and year-to-date numbers, you will find YTD numbers lagging, but current numbers more positive. The number of homes being sold and the price average is increasing.
The majority of activity is in the under $300,000 price range, where there is a 2.5 to 3 month supply of inventory. As the price increases, the indicated selling time increases too. In other words, higher priced homes are taking longer to sell. The higher the price, the longer the average selling period.
If you have any questions about the current Wenatchee real estate market, please contact me. I will be happy to answer your questions.
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth
Here is a link to the comprehensive Wenatchee housing market report for September 2014 (which reflects activity for August).
As you review the report for monthly and year-to-date numbers, you will find YTD numbers lagging, but current numbers more positive. The number of homes being sold and the price average is increasing.
The majority of activity is in the under $300,000 price range, where there is a 2.5 to 3 month supply of inventory. As the price increases, the indicated selling time increases too. In other words, higher priced homes are taking longer to sell. The higher the price, the longer the average selling period.
If you have any questions about the current Wenatchee real estate market, please contact me. I will be happy to answer your questions.
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth
Interested in Wenatchee Investment Real Estate?
For those of you interested in Wenatchee investment real estate, here are a couple of great information resources. Perhaps, I have mentioned them before.
Mr. Landlord, forms and tons of other resources for landlords.
Bigger Pockets, an online real estate magazine. There are usually several articles posted per day by practicing real estate investors.
There are numerous investment options in Wenatchee. I am always willing to assist you.
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth
Mr. Landlord, forms and tons of other resources for landlords.
Bigger Pockets, an online real estate magazine. There are usually several articles posted per day by practicing real estate investors.
There are numerous investment options in Wenatchee. I am always willing to assist you.
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth
Free Mortgage Calculator
Have you ever been curious about how much your monthly payment would be on a loan, whether for a home or something else? Bankrate.com has an easy to use loan calculator where you can play with various scenarios.
Keep in mind, if you are considering the purchase of a home, do NOT apply for any other credit until you consult with a professional loan officer! Even an inquiry on your credit can negatively affect your credit score.
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth
Keep in mind, if you are considering the purchase of a home, do NOT apply for any other credit until you consult with a professional loan officer! Even an inquiry on your credit can negatively affect your credit score.
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth
Wenatchee Real Estate: July 2014 Statistics
The July issue of the Pacific Appraisal home sales statistics indicates the trend from the first half of the year has changed! Although the overall MLS market area (including outlying areas) is down, the local Wenatchee market area is showing recovery.
Here is a link to the January - June 2014 statistics, as provided by Pacific Appraisal Associates last month. This report includes Month-to-Month and Year-to-date information. It is interesting to compare both.
Unlike the first half of the year, sales volume AND prices are now increasing. New listing data indicates there are still fewer homes coming onto the market than a year ago at this time. This would indicate an increase in prices will probably continue. Because the inventory of homes is less robust than a year ago, it is beneficial to work with your favorite REALTOR to keep you notified as new home choices come onto the market.
I am always happy to answer any of your real estate questions.
Best Regards,
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Wenatchee homes, East Wenatchee homes, Malaga homes,
Cashmere homes, and Leavenworth homes.
Wenatchee, Washington: A Historical Report of the early People and Buildings
I recently came across this very interesting article on the history of Wenatchee and thought you might enjoy reading it too. The objective of the project (and 2007 report) was to "identify intact, historically significant buildings, objects, sites, structures, and places in downtown Wenatchee".
It discusses some history of the original Native Americans in the area and eventual settlement and growth, closely tied to the arrival of the railroad in 1892
It includes lots of old pictures and a list of historic buildings.
Enjoy...
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth
It discusses some history of the original Native Americans in the area and eventual settlement and growth, closely tied to the arrival of the railroad in 1892
It includes lots of old pictures and a list of historic buildings.
Enjoy...
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Homes for sale in: Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga,
Cashmere, and Leavenworth
Wenatchee Real Estate: 2 Myths Real Estate Agents Hate
Myth #1: In order to get the most money when we sell our home, we should price it just over market value, expecting buyers to make a lower offer.
Fact: In order to get the most money, you should price your home just under market value. YES! By pricing your home just under market value, you will probably get an offer much sooner and not have your home languish on the market. This has many advantages, not the least of which is reducing the inconvenience to you and your family. You will most likely get a full price offer quickly and save time in negotiations and close much quicker than pricing it over market. When you price your home under market value, buyers know it will sell quickly and they have to be ready to make an offer that will be acceptable.
Myth #2: If we get an offer from a pre-qualified buyer, we are guaranteed a quick closing.
Fact #2: "Pre-qualified" is meaningless. Pre-qualification merely means the buyer has gone to a lender and said their credit is good, income is X dollars, and they have X debt. Nothing has been verified. "Pre-approval" is what you must see and hear. Don't ever accept an offer from a buyer that is not "pre-approved"! Pre-approval means the information has been verified and the lender can offer assurance a loan, for the specified amount, will be approved... if the information does not change. This information is again verified just before closing, so if a buyer loses their job or buys something else on credit, a new pre-approval process is required and the buyer may or may not still qualify for the original loan amount. It rarely happens, but it does happen if a buyer is not savvy to these rules of loan approval.
It's going to be hot again this week... so stay cool and pray for our firefighters!
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Wenatchee homes, East Wenatchee homes, Malaga homes,
Cashmere homes, and Leavenworth homes
Fact: In order to get the most money, you should price your home just under market value. YES! By pricing your home just under market value, you will probably get an offer much sooner and not have your home languish on the market. This has many advantages, not the least of which is reducing the inconvenience to you and your family. You will most likely get a full price offer quickly and save time in negotiations and close much quicker than pricing it over market. When you price your home under market value, buyers know it will sell quickly and they have to be ready to make an offer that will be acceptable.
Myth #2: If we get an offer from a pre-qualified buyer, we are guaranteed a quick closing.
Fact #2: "Pre-qualified" is meaningless. Pre-qualification merely means the buyer has gone to a lender and said their credit is good, income is X dollars, and they have X debt. Nothing has been verified. "Pre-approval" is what you must see and hear. Don't ever accept an offer from a buyer that is not "pre-approved"! Pre-approval means the information has been verified and the lender can offer assurance a loan, for the specified amount, will be approved... if the information does not change. This information is again verified just before closing, so if a buyer loses their job or buys something else on credit, a new pre-approval process is required and the buyer may or may not still qualify for the original loan amount. It rarely happens, but it does happen if a buyer is not savvy to these rules of loan approval.
It's going to be hot again this week... so stay cool and pray for our firefighters!
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate news, info and trends
Wenatchee homes, East Wenatchee homes, Malaga homes,
Cashmere homes, and Leavenworth homes
Wenatchee Real Estate: First Half 2014 Review
The North Central Washington real estate statistics for the first six months of 2014 are out!
Overall, Wenatchee area home prices are up from a year ago, but the number of homes sold is down. How can the price be up, with sales down? Supply and Demand. There are considerably fewer homes being listed for sale. Limited inventory creates higher prices.
I could list all the details here but, better yet, you can see all the details for yourself... direct from the source on the Pacific Appraisal July 2014 SNAPSHOT report.
If you are interested in more North Central Washington real estate historical statistics, you can access as far back as the beginning of 2010 by following that link from the Pacific Appraisal website. It covers the market areas in Wenatchee/East Wenatchee, Cashmere, Leavenworth and Chelan.
Hope you are having a great summer!
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate new, info and trends
Wenatchee homes, East Wenatchee homes, Malaga homes,
Cashmere homes, and Leavenworth homes
Overall, Wenatchee area home prices are up from a year ago, but the number of homes sold is down. How can the price be up, with sales down? Supply and Demand. There are considerably fewer homes being listed for sale. Limited inventory creates higher prices.
I could list all the details here but, better yet, you can see all the details for yourself... direct from the source on the Pacific Appraisal July 2014 SNAPSHOT report.
If you are interested in more North Central Washington real estate historical statistics, you can access as far back as the beginning of 2010 by following that link from the Pacific Appraisal website. It covers the market areas in Wenatchee/East Wenatchee, Cashmere, Leavenworth and Chelan.
Hope you are having a great summer!
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate new, info and trends
Wenatchee homes, East Wenatchee homes, Malaga homes,
Cashmere homes, and Leavenworth homes
Wenatchee Real Estate: What We Learned This Week
Disaster Strikes! No one ever thinks it will happen to them, but it happens... and it could happen to you, regardless of where you live!
Anyone who follows the news in North Central Washington (or the Pacific Northwest for that matter) knows disaster has stricken in the form of forest fires. Dozens of Central Washington homes have been lost, with many more currently in danger.
All this news brings to the forefront the extreme importance of being prepared in case of disaster, regardless of what form it comes in. We don't have any control over the whims of Mother Nature, but we can be prepared. Are you prepared?
I came across a couple of good articles outlining what to do in order to be as prepared as possible in case of the need to evacuate your home in a hurry. It is definitely worth taking the time to read and follow through.
How To Be Prepared For An Emergency Evacuation.
Even though it comes out of the Virginia Cooperative Extension, here is another article on:
Emergency Preparedness
Are you prepared? If not, please take the time to follow-through on this process. It will give you tremendous peace of mind, knowing you have the necessary documents to get help when you need it most.
Be Safe. Be Prepared.
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate new, info and trends
Wenatchee homes, East Wenatchee homes, Malaga homes,
Cashmere homes, and Leavenworth homes
Anyone who follows the news in North Central Washington (or the Pacific Northwest for that matter) knows disaster has stricken in the form of forest fires. Dozens of Central Washington homes have been lost, with many more currently in danger.
All this news brings to the forefront the extreme importance of being prepared in case of disaster, regardless of what form it comes in. We don't have any control over the whims of Mother Nature, but we can be prepared. Are you prepared?
I came across a couple of good articles outlining what to do in order to be as prepared as possible in case of the need to evacuate your home in a hurry. It is definitely worth taking the time to read and follow through.
How To Be Prepared For An Emergency Evacuation.
Even though it comes out of the Virginia Cooperative Extension, here is another article on:
Emergency Preparedness
Are you prepared? If not, please take the time to follow-through on this process. It will give you tremendous peace of mind, knowing you have the necessary documents to get help when you need it most.
Be Safe. Be Prepared.
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate new, info and trends
Wenatchee homes, East Wenatchee homes, Malaga homes,
Cashmere homes, and Leavenworth homes
A Vacation Checklist... Things NOT To Forget
For the most part, I try to keep this blog specifically focused on Wenatchee real estate. It' vacation season, though, so when I saw an article titled "14 Things You Forget To Do Before Leaving For Vacation", I decided it was a good topic to share.
Hope you are having a great summer and ARE planning a fun vacation!
Stay cool!
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate new, info and trends
Wenatchee homes, East Wenatchee homes, Malaga homes,
Cashmere homes, and Leavenworth homes
Hope you are having a great summer and ARE planning a fun vacation!
Stay cool!
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee real estate agent
Free Search of the entire Wenatchee real estate MLS
Current Wenatchee real estate new, info and trends
Wenatchee homes, East Wenatchee homes, Malaga homes,
Cashmere homes, and Leavenworth homes
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