What to do with Low Offers?

As Sellers, it is so easy to be disappointed by low offers. But, how can we use them to our advantage? Can we massage them into good offers? Yes. Can we use them to help get other potential Buyers off the fence? Yes. It is critical to take a deep breath and remember the goal.

On Memorial Day, as we honor those who have sacrificed their lives, it seems fitting to remind surviving Veterans of one of their benefits: www.valoansguidelines.com.

Oregonian Article Touts Cap Hill resurgence using Belltown as the antithesis

http://www.oregonlive.com/travel/index.ssf/2011/05/a_vibrant_dining_scene_helps_s.html

Listing at 5808 E. Green Lake Way

Check out the great home available on Green Lake. Ideally situation on the South side of the lake, close to Tangletown and Wallingford, between I-5 and 99. 2880 sf on a 6100+sf lot. 4BR/3.5BA with almost every room offering a view to the lake. And a rare 2car garage.

For more details visit: http://www.matrix.nwmls.com/DE.asp?k=1550274XM0G6&p=DE-6267743-514

Young couple of a budget builds Ballard's first zero-energy house

http://www.ballardnewstribune.com/2011/05/13/features/young-couple-budget-builds-ballards-first-zer

Real Estate and Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day Weekend is a mixed bag for open houses. Typically, locals leave, but…sometimes visitors  find an agent and look for property.

Investing in Older Concrete and Steel

Congratulations to Dale and Sally who closed a few short months ago on a 1BR at Arbor Place with astounding 21st floor bay, mountain and city views (currently above the zoning to the West) for $295K. With about $35K in remodel upgrades (including opening up the kitchen to these views) their 661sf pied-a-terre is a showstopper. Well done.

ThirveSeattle's First QR Code: Hit or Hype?

This is ThriveSeattle's first QR code on a real estate sign (at 5808 E. Green Lake Way). Any thoughts on these? Hit or hype?

Bank-owned at Mosler Lofts

#707 should re-list as bank owned soon. Here's the old listing: http://www.matrix.nwmls.com/DE.asp?k=1550274XM0G6&p=DE-6188576-730 (no photos).  #304 http://www.matrix.nwmls.com/DE.asp?k=155027448LD&p=DE-6220697-127  will likely come after that. #411 should also list soon (maybe the next few weeks): http://www.matrix.nwmls.com/DE.asp?k=1550274XM0G6&p=DE-6222041-919

Buyers Close on Condo at Lumen for $260.85/sf

Congratulations to Nicholas and Thomas for their purchase at Lumen. This is great space at a price that hopefully will stand the test of time.

Great Room at Lumen C217

Lumen C217 Kitchen

Notice that the window wall opens nearly completely...to a very nicely sized patio

One of two bedrooms with door/window/closet. There are two more rooms lacking exterior windows and closets

Pricing in a decling market

Here's a nice easy-to-understand graphical representation of what happens when we price too high in a declining market.

The importance of Homeowners Insurance to Condo Owners

As many people know, close to 30 homes at Mosler were affected last weekend by a overflowing bathtub. Around 10,000 gallons of water flowed over a seven hour period. Some homeowners will have to relocate while their homes are being repaired. Those without insurance, will likely have to do so (and will have to replace their personal items) at _their own cost_, even though they had nothing to do with the leak. Homeowners insurance in condos is relatively inexpensive. If you don't have it, get it. If you need an agent, just ask.