January 2016

1. How much does it cost to use an agent?

Buying

When you are a buyer, you get the expertise, knowledge, and guidance of your Real Estate Agent without having to pay a dime! Pretty cool, huh? The seller pays both the buyer's agent and the listing agent's commission in most circumstances.

Selling

When it's time for you to sell, you pay both the Buyer's Agent and your agent's commission. In the Seattle area, this is generally 6% of your sales price. Not all agents are created equal and percentages can vary. Since 90% of buyers start their real estate search online, we understand how to make your house seen and shine online, along with many more ways of getting it online attention.

2. Can I get a better deal when buying if I use the

Nestled in the beautiful Sammamish River Valley just 30 minutes northeast of Seattle, Woodinville Wine Country is home to over 100 wineries and tasting rooms representing every appellation in Washington. Nearly all of the wineries grow their own grapes in the arid climate of Eastern Washington Columbia Valley. The gravelly soil and perfect fall temperatures allow the grapes to ripen to perfection.

Most of the wineries offer inviting tasting rooms to sample their finest wines.

Want to try all of them? Get a Woodinville Wine Country Passport to sample all year long! Enjoy!

You can live next to these beautiful vineyards! Search for homes nearby!

Buying and Selling in the winter offers major advantages!

 Darker days, colder temperatures, and even more rain - are painful signs that winter is here for a while. Many people wouldn't even think about putting their house on the market during this time, figuring that selling would be difficult. However, that's not the case! Here are just a few reasons why selling AND buying in the winter is the most effective.

Sellers:

• Off season buyers are usually the MOST serious type of buyers! Even if it’s cold and rainy, sellers can get more money for their homes. 
• Less competition! Since most people assume they shouldn't sell in winter, they don't, leaving fewer properties on the market. Less inventory means less competition for you!
• Sell

Downtown Edmonds is like walking back in time not only for how safe and peaceful it is but it's quaint feel and friendly people. There are a few coffee shops to choose from but my very favorite, after having lived in the area for over eighteen years, is Cafe Louvre. 

The owners Nabil and Haifa obviously care for the Edmonds community - bringing in artists who can hang their work while the cafe takes no proceeds from the sales. They also bring in musicians to perform on a regular basis. Their heart shows in the cozy feel of the shop with the wonderful natural gas fireplace, comfy couches and on most mornings you'll find many local chatting it up at the cafe style tables. Their specially make New York cannoli should not be missed when you visit! 

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