Real Estate • Sellers • May 27, 2024

SOLD in 13 Days!

by Danielle Martin

SOLD in 13 days!

My clients were referred to me by a trusted local lender who knew that their meticulous nature would need a realtor with patience and expertise. From the moment we met, it was clear they were detail-oriented and approached every decision with careful analysis.

They had a very specific plan: they wanted to buy a new home non-contingent and then sell their current house. This strategy would give them leverage in negotiations and avoid the stress of coordinating two transactions simultaneously.

After discussing their needs and preferences, we set out to find their new home. They had already shortlisted several properties and had detailed notes on each. Over the next 3-4 months we toured several homes where my clients asked insightful questions about the structural integrity, potential for appreciation, and even the neighborhood’s development plans.

In the end, one property stood out to them. They loved it, but true to their nature, they wanted to be thorough. We negotiated a non-contingent offer, confident in their ability to secure financing and knowing their current home would sell quickly and had a comprehensive inspection in which we successfully negotiated.

Once their offer was accepted, we turned our attention to selling their existing home and made a list of “to do’s” so that their home would be in prime condition for the market. This included professional cleaning of the home and floor surfaces, home staging and professional photography & videography. They provided me with a detailed list of upgrades and improvements they had made over the years which we shared in marketing the home. We priced the house competitively and marketed it effectively selling it in just 13 days on the market.

The entire process went smoothly, thanks to thorough preparation and clear communication. Thank you Peter & Ashiyah! I was pleasure to both find you a lovely new home and sell your existing home.

Cleaning Services: Cindy Sullivan

Carpet Cleaning: Ace Carpet Cleaning, Anacortes, WA

Home Staging: Sally Zawistowski https://www.facebook.com/sally.berentson

Photography & Videography https://www.facebook.com/nwcraftmedia.wa

Real Estate • Sellers • Uncategorized • May 27, 2024

Legacy Craftsman home on the hill in Mont Vernon

by Danielle Martin

This home was such a special one to have the privilege to bring to the market. I worked with my clients for the last four months to prepare his home to be show ready. We shared memories of raising his family and what they loved about the home. I took special note of these items and we highlighted them in our marketing. In the last four months, we organized, cleaned, donated, painted, more organizing, had an estate sale and finally got down to go time and not a detail was missed so this home would be ready for a new buyer to fall in love with.

Our virtual tour (https://youtu.be/TKi5fZzPz44) is a must see as well as www.nwcraftmedia.com and I had fun making this quick promo video for you. Enjoy and feel free to share with someone you know who is looking for a piece of Skagit County history.

420 E. Fulton Street, Mount Vernon, WA

4 bedrooms

5 baths

3,226 Sq Ft

.28 acres

Built in 1918

MLS# 2239433

Staged by SavvyNess Interiors, Design & Build

Buyers • Uncategorized • May 27, 2024

How VA Loans Can Help You Buy a Home

by Danielle Martin

For over 80 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped millions of veterans buy their own homes. If you or someone you know has served in the military, it’s important to learn about this program and its benefits.

Here are some key things to know about VA loans before buying a home.

Top Benefits of VA Home Loans

VA home loans make it easier for veterans to buy a home, and they’re a great perk for those who qualify. According to the Department of Veteran Affairs, some benefits include:

Options for No Down Payment: Qualified borrowers can often purchase a home with no down payment. That’s a huge weight lifted when you’re trying to save for a home. The Associated Press says:

“. . . about 90% of VA loans are used to purchase a home with no money down.”

Don’t Require Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Many other loans with down payments under 20% require PMI. VA loans do not, which means veterans can save on their monthly housing costs.
Limited Closing Costs: There are limits on the types of closing costs you pay when you qualify for a VA home loan. So, more money stays in your pocket when it’s time to seal the deal.

An article from Veterans United sums up how remarkable this loan can be:

“For the vast majority of military borrowers, VA loans represent the most powerful lending program on the market. These flexible, $0-down payment mortgages have helped more than 24 million service members become homeowners since 1944.”

Bottom Line

Owning a home is the American Dream. Veterans give a lot to protect our country, and one way to honor them is by making sure they know about VA home loans.

Real Estate • Sellers • May 18, 2024

Just Sold: Here’s the story…

by Danielle Martin

Today, I closed a chapter with a very special client who recently faced the heartbreaking loss of his spouse. While it’s never easy to move on from memories built together in a home they loved, he took a brave step forward towards a new beginning.

When we first met we discussed his plans to move forward and what the timing looked like. He had a home that he wanted to make an offer on that would be contingent on his home selling, and quickly. In this market, contingent offers work, but the sellers need to be ready to list their home, typically within 5 days of a contingent offer being mutually accepted. In this case, my clients home was better than show ready. I quickly gathered my team, including photographer, videographer, sign installers and transaction coordinator and we went to work. The home was listed and we were under contract in less than 24 hours. We closed at 103.45% of list price!

I feel deeply honored to have been trusted with the sale of their cherished home, and I’m immensely proud of him for the courage it took to embrace this change. It’s a bittersweet farewell to a home filled with love and memories, but also a hopeful hello to new opportunities and adventures. Wishing him all the strength and happiness in this new chapter of his life.

Real Estate • Sellers • May 18, 2024

Location, Location, Location

by Danielle Martin

Location, Location, Location.

Looking for a million dollar view under $1M? My newest listing in the Hillcrest Terrace area of Anacortes needs to be on your list!

3819 Terrace Dr., Anacortes

4 bedrooms

2 baths

2,334 Sq Ft

Offered at $850,000

Virtual Tour: https://daniellemartinrealestate.com/listing/WA/Anacortes/3819-Terrace-Drive-98221/190634172

OPEN: Saturday, May 18, 12-2pm

NW Craft Media

Buyers • Real Estate • May 8, 2024

Why would a home come back on the market?

by Danielle Martin

There are a few different reasons…

A home might come back on the market due to:

Financing falling through

Inspection issues

Buyer’s change of heart

Or a failed appraisal

It’s not uncommon, but it provides a second chance for interested buyers to make an offer.

If there’s a home that just came back on the market and you’re interested in a home tour, reach out and let’s check it out.

Buyers • Homeowners • May 2, 2024

Real estate is one of the best investments to make… why?

by Danielle Martin

Depreciation: An accounting method used to allocate the cost of a tangible or physical asset over it’s useful life.

Things that depreciate: Cars, furniture, tv’s, computer, phones, clothing

Things that don’t: Real Estate

Real estate is one of the best investments to make… why?

→ Scarcity – Land is a finite resource, unlike mass-produced cars, driving up its value as populations grow and urban areas expand. (In my marker area, we are seeing and expect to continue to see this as people move up the I5 corridor due to the explosive growth in part to the Smokey Point/Arlington area and more).

Real estate can be improved or renovated, enhancing its desirability and market worth over time.

Location is crucial. The old adage “location, location, location” speaks volumes. Real estate values are heavily influenced by the desirability of their location—proximity to schools, amenities, transportation, and employment centers.

Real estate serves as an inflation hedge, increasing in value as prices rise.

Furthermore, real estate generates rental income, adding to its overall value, especially in high-demand areas. These are just a few reasons why real estate tend to hold its value much better than other assets. (Sidenote: not to say the depreciating items are a bad thing as I am a good consumer myself, and know we need some of these items, however, I want to make clear which is the better investment in the long run).

Are you looking considering an investment property or homeownership? If you’re considering an investment property or homeownership, 💬 reach out and comment “INVEST” and let’s connect.

Buyers • Real Estate • Sellers • April 19, 2024

Buying or selling in 2024? These are the eight real estate trends you’ll want to pay attention to.

by Danielle Martin

Buying or selling in 2024? These are the eight real estate trends you’ll want to pay attention to:

Paying attention to these trends will do more for selling your home than quick renovation projects that will add value to your home (even though these certainly help). Using these eight trends will help you to stand out in the market – here’s why.

1. Homes in this market need to stand out from the rest – things like drone footage of both the interiors and exteriors of your property will help to impress buyers. My latest listing with the help of NW Craft Media is a perfect example. Click HERE to view the virtual tour. Drone footage gives homebuyers a true understanding of lot size and more.

2. Sustainable homes with significant eco-home improvements will also enter the spotlight in 2024. Homes designed for energy efficiency not only attract environmentally aware buyers but also promise substantial financial savings over time. It also helps buyers with certain tax breaks and makes it more attractive for resale value.

3. Although not a new trend for 2024, broken-plan homes and cozier, closed-off rooms are a selling point for properties this year.

4. Staging a house to sell has historically been about stripping personality from the space to present the prospective buyers with a blank slate to imagine their lives and furniture. However, buyers (and brokers like me) are gravitating toward more unique, well-curated staging. HERE is an example of a recent interior staging on a new listing on mine by Sally Zawistowski.

5. Just as eco-home improvements are seeing an increase in interest – smart home features such as integrated security systems, speaker systems, home automation, etc. are features buyers in today’s market typically have as part of their criteria when shopping for homes.

6. Another quality of life upgrade that makes any property more appealing in 2024 is wellness in design. Think home gyms, saunas, and plunge pools. If you are looking to improve the quality of wellness spaces in your home, something as simple as a spa bathroom can make an impact on a buyer.

7. One trend still clinging on from the pandemic is the convenience of virtual viewings. This saves time and effort for both buyers and sellers and lets buyers get a feel for the space without physically being there.

8. If you are looking to sell a house fast, then social media may be your friend in 2024 – According to Coldwell Banker Global Luxury’s The Trend Report, 73% of affluent consumers say social media has influenced them to purchase a particular home, with Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok being the leading platforms they’re turning to. For my Instagram marketing platform, click HERE.

Homeowners • Real Estate • Sellers • April 1, 2024

The best week to list your house is almost here!

by Danielle Martin

The best week to list your house is almost here!

Are you thinking about making a move? If so, now may be the perfect time to start the process. A recent realtor.com study looked at the housing market trends over the past several years (with the exception of 2020), since it was obviously an unusual year and found the best week to put your house on the market. This year is April 14 – 20.

Here’s why this matters for you. While the spring market is a great time to sell no matter the week, this may be the peak sweet spot of higher buyer demand and fewer price reductions that the typical week of the year.

There is still time to get in on the action however, you’ll need to move more quickly to figure out a plan to prep your house and get it on the market. I can help offer advice to balance your target listing date with what you need to do from a repair and renovation standpoint and walk you through exactly how to prioritize your list so you know what to tackle first. If your house is already in good shape, you’ll be able to really focus in on the smaller things that are easy to do and make a big impact and since there is not much time for any major renovations, focusing on quick repairs to address things that could deter potential buyers is crucial.

If you’re not ready to list within the next couple of weeks, that’s OK, too! The window of opportunity doesn’t just close when this weekends. Spring is the peak homebuying season and it’s still a sellers market.

Perhaps this is the nudge you need to make your move happen? I’m ready to chat next steps.

Buyers • Homeowners • Real Estate • March 27, 2024

What Matters Most in Searching for a Home

by Danielle Martin

When searching for your dream home, it’s easy to get caught up in details that don’t really matter.

What does matter?

Location: The location of a property can significantly impact various aspects of your life, such as commute times, access to amenities, safety, and school districts. Evaluate the neighborhood’s atmosphere, amenities, and community vibe. Consider factors like noise levels, proximity to parks or recreational facilities, and the presence of a homeowners association. With the help of your real estate professional, you can also research any planned developments or infrastructure projects in the area that could affect property values or quality of life.

Size/Layout: Consider the size of the property and its layout in relation to your needs, such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, living space, and any specific requirements like a home office or outdoor area.

Potential: Assess the condition of the property, including the age of major systems like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. Factor in any potential maintenance or renovation costs.

Price and Affordability: Determine your budget and look for properties within that range. Consider not just the upfront cost but also ongoing expenses such as property taxes, insurance, and maintenance.

If you want more details on the home buying process, some additional common considerations include:

Resale Potential: Even if you’re not planning to sell immediately, it’s wise to consider the resale potential of a property. Factors like market trends, property appreciation, and potential buyer appeal can influence this.

Accessibility and Transportation: Consider access to public transportation, major roads, and highways, especially if commuting is a significant part of your daily routine.

Natural Light and Views: Assess the amount of natural light the property receives and any scenic views it offers. Good natural light can enhance the ambiance of a home and affect mood.

Ultimately, what matters most in house hunting is finding a property that meets your needs, preferences, and long-term goals while staying within your budget and considering factors that contribute to your overall quality of life. It’s essential to prioritize the aspects that are most important to you and be willing to compromise on less critical factors. Contact me for your complimentary Buyers Guide.