Moving to Renton or Kent WA.?

Thinking about moving to Seattle Wa. or a close neighboring city like Renton or Kent?
How Far Will Your Salary Go In A Different City?
Info for Relocating to Renton WA?

Just like real estate markets differ from town to town, so does the Cost of Living. If you are relocating to Renton or Kent you need to know how far your money will go. And of course you will need a local Renton relocation Realtor.
Courtesy of CNNMoney, this helpful calculator measures the change in living expenses a person would face when moving between any two major cities in America.
The key expenses compared are:
Groceries
Housing
Utilities
Transportation
Healthcare
The comparison data is provided by C2ER which, on its own Web site, charges $4.95 for each city-to-city comparison. At CNNMoney.com, the exact same C2ER data is licensed and available for free.

If you are relocating to Renton give me a call or sign up for our free Renton relocation packet. We know about the home values in Fairwood, new home developments in Renton Highlands, condo and townhomes at the Landing in downtown Renton, and estate homes in Newcastle. Plus, we can tell you about the Renton schools, churches and shopping in Renton. These are all critical to quality of life for you and your family. When you are ready to move to Renton, Call Lonnie Snyder so I can help you out. I have been helping our many satisfied customers for a long time.

Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 206-406-2710
E-Mail : snyder@kw.com
Website: http://www.callsnyder.com
Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com

Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.

Updated Renton Real Estate, Newcastle Real Estate & South Bellevue Real Estate Market Statistics (As of June 27th, 2008)

These numbers are based on a three month historical analysis that is updated on a weekly basis.
MLS Area 500 (Newcastle, Bellevue South of I-90 & Issaquah South of I-90)
Single Family Homes
Average Days on Market: 97 Days (Up from 95 Last Week)
Inventory of Active Listings: 610 (Up from 590 Last Week)
Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 225 (Up from 252 Last Week)
75 listings are absorbed by demand each month on average. (Up From 74 Last Week)
8.13 Months Worth of Supply (Up from 7.97 Last Week)
Average List Price: $891,839 (Up From $887,468 Last Week)
Average Sale Price: $736,723 (Up From $736,144 Last Week)
Median Sale Price: $620,500 (Up from $615,000 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 500 for Single Family Homes: This area favors buyers over sellers based on the fact that there is an 8.13 month supply of homes. This means that if no additional homes were listed, it would take 8.13 months to absorb the current inventory. A market is considered balanced when the supply of homes is closer to a six month supply.

Condominiums
Average Days on Market: 78 Days (Up from 68 Last Week)
Inventory of Active Listings: 157 Active Listings (Up from 149 Last Week)Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 83 (Up from 80 Last Week)
28 listings are absorbed by demand each month on average. (Up From 27 Last Week)
5.6 Months Worth of Supply (Up From 5.5 Last Week)
Average List Price: $336,125 (Up From $333,526 Last Week)
Average Sale Price: $347,825 (Up From $342,746 Last Week)
Median Sale Price: $329,000 (Up From $320,000 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 500 for condos: This area is balanced between buyers and sellers based on the fact that there is a 5.6 month supply of homes. This means that if no additional homes were listed, it would take 5.6 months to absorb the current inventory. A market is considered balanced when the supply of homes is closer to a six month supply.

MLS Area 350 (Northeast Renton / Renton Highlands, East Highlands, Briarwood)
Single Family Homes
Average Days on Market: 101 Days (No Change From Last Week)
Inventory of Active Listings: 467 (Up from 455 Last Week)
Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 268 (Up from 265 Last Week)
89 listings are absorbed by demand each month on average. (Up from 88 Last Week)
5.2 Months Worth of Supply (Down from 5.7 Months Last Week)
Average List Price: $570,915 (Down From $573,048 Last Week)
Average Sale Price: $477,312 (Up From $476,012 Last Week)
Median Sale Price: $415,000 (Down From $424,740 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 350 for Single Family Homes: This area favors sellers over buyers based on the fact that there is a 5.2 month supply of homes. This means that if no additional homes were listed, it would take 5.2 months to absorb the current inventory. A market is considered balanced when the supply of homes is closer to a six month supply.

Condominiums
Average Days on Market: 82 Days (Up from 78 Last Week)
Inventory of Active Listings: 95 Active Listings (Up from 89 last week)Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 37 (No Change from Last Week)
12 listings are absorbed by demand each month on average. (Up from 10 Last Week)
7.9 Months Worth of Supply (Up from 7.4 Months Last Week)
Average List Price: $255,001 (Up From $253,102 Last Week)
Average Sale Price: $250,397 (Up From $241,593 Last Week)
Median Sale Price: $245,000 (Up From $227,500 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 350 for condos: This area is favors buyers over sellers based on the fact that there is a 7.9 month supply of homes. This means that if no additional homes were listed, it would take 7.9 months to absorb the current inventory. A market is considered balanced when the supply of homes is closer to a six month supply.

MLS Area 340 (Southeast Renton / Cascade, Tiffany Park, Talbot Hill, Benson Hill, Fairwood)
Single Family Homes
Average Days on Market: 97 Days (Up From 93 Last Week)
Inventory of Active Listings: 410 (Down From 411 Active Listings Last Week)
Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 188 (Up From 186 Last Week)
63 listings are absorbed by demand each month on average. (Up from 62 Last Week)
6.50 Months Worth of Supply (Down from 6.62 Months worth of Supply Last Week)
Average List Price: $439,958 (Down From $441,558 Last Week)
Average Sale Price: $369,938 (Down From $373,790 Last Week)
Median Sale Price: $361,500 (Down From $363,000 Last week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 340 for Single Family Homes: This area is balanced between buyers and sellers based on the fact that there is a 6.50 month supply of homes. This means that if no additional homes were listed, it would take 6.50 months to absorb the current inventory. A market is considered balanced when the supply of homes is closer to a six month supply.
Condominiums
Average Days on Market: 84 Days (Down from 85 Last Week)
Inventory of Active Listings: 112 Active Listings (Up from 109 Last Week)
Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 53 (Up from 52 last Week)
18 listings are absorbed by demand each month on average. (Up From 17 Last Week)
6.2 Months Worth of Supply (Down from 6.4 Last Week)
Average List Price: $233,371 (Down From $234,030 Last Week)
Average Sale Price: $214,240 (Down From $232,259 Last Week)
Median Sale Price: $207,500 (Down From $230,000 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 340 for Condos: This area is balanced between buyers and sellers based on the fact that there is a 6.2 month supply of homes. This means that if no additional homes were listed, it would take 6.2 months to absorb the current inventory. A market is considered balanced when the supply of homes is closer to a six month supply.

If you are interested in statistical information for an MLS area not covered here, please respond to this post to let me know what neighborhood you live in and I will follow up with the statistics specific to your area of interest. You are also welcome to visit my website at www.CallSnyder.com where you can access my Market Snapshot research tool found on the left side of the homepage.

This information is deemed reliable but it is not guaranteed to be 100% accurate. I generated these statistics using the Northwest Multiple Listing Service. These statistics were not compiled or published by the Northwest Multiple Listing Service. The analysis of each MLS Area is based on the market statistics but is the personal opinion of the author.

Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 206-406-2710
E-Mail : snyder@kw.com
Website: http://www.callsnyder.com
Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com
Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.

What are some typical closing costs?

When you apply for a mortgage, the lender must respond with a Good Faith Estimate of Closing Costs, which explains the costs you will likely have to pay at settlement. But the numbers on the form are estimates, and the final tally could be higher or lower.

Some of the more common charges are:
Loan Origination Fee: usually 1% of the loan;
Loan Discount Points: a form of accelerated interest; each point is 1% of the loan amount (who pays points is negotiable between buyer and seller);

Appraisal Fee: the charge to have a professional appraiser certify the value of the property being purchased;
Credit Report: the cost of getting a credit history from a credit service;
Tax Service Fee, Document Preparation Fee: charges to set up a tax escrow account and prepare mortgage documents;
Attorney Fees: the settlement agent's charges for processing the sale closing;
Title Insurance: charges for insurance to guarantee the validity of the property's title for the lender; buyers can also purchase title insurance at settlement to protect their interests;
Recording Fees, Tax Stamps: local charges to officially record the deed and mortgage, and transfer taxes;
Survey: the charge to verify the boundaries of the property being purchased.

Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.

I pull out all the stops to sell your home.

Lonnie Snyder

REALTOR®

Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound

Phone: 206-406-2710

E-Mail : snyder@kw.com

Website: http://www.callsnyder.com/

Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com/

When selling, think like a buyer

Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.

I pull out all the stops to sell your home.
Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 206-406-2710
E-Mail : snyder@kw.com
Website: http://www.callsnyder.com/
Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com/



It's June, which means it's officially the start of moving season.
Moving companies — or relocation services, as they now call themselves — are always busiest during the summer season, which in the moving world lasts through September.
If you're trying to sell your home, the folks at Allied Van Lines have some tips. We all know that curb appeal is a key part of snagging potential buyers, so Allied has enlisted the help of Daniel Owens, landscape designer on the HGTV show Curb Appeal.
So how do you enhance this magical curb appeal?
"The main thing is to accentuate whatever is positive about the home," Owens says.
Well, yeah, but how?
You can start by taking a good, hard look at it. Not the swift, forgiving glance you usually give it as you drive off every morning — but a long, dispassionate, critical gaze.
Walk across the street and try to see your home through a stranger's eyes.
He suggests that you take a picture of it to defamiliarize. Or ask a couple of neighbors for a critique. Does anything look worn-out or in need of fresh paint? Is there an element that just doesn't fit — ugly screens, odd-looking shutters, scraggly ivy? Get rid of it, whatever it is, or paint it to make it less noticeable.
A little paint can brighten up a home like nothing else. Try a different-colored trim and you may be surprised at how different your house looks. But be careful. If you're trying to sell your house, play it safe. Neutral tones look good on just about any house — sage green, ivory, warm brown.
You might also get some ideas if you look at other houses in the neighborhood. They're likely to be made of similar materials, and you can tell immediately which colors work and which ones don't.
One place you can be a little bolder? The front door. Ideally, people should see your front door from the street, and a color that pops will help them find it.
It's also good to create a welcoming pathway to the door. Put down some stepping stones, maybe, or a few well-placed plants that lead to the entrance.
Finally, pay attention to the details. It's often the small things that will catch a buyer's eye. Put some plants in containers and use them to showcase the entrance. Add a garden bench or a birdbath to add interest to the landscape. Check to see if your accessories coordinate. If the mailbox, front door handle and house numbers have the same finish, it makes your house look put together.
Take a look at your lighting; the bigger the light fixture, the bigger the effect, Owens says. Something large and dramatic-looking will make the house look grander.
And for heaven's sake, invest in a nice doormat.
"Oftentimes, I'll go to these beautiful homes, and people have the nastiest doormats," Owens says.

I pull out all the stops to sell your home.
Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 206-406-2710
E-Mail : snyder@kw.com
Website: http://www.callsnyder.com/
Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com/

Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.

Will a neighbor problem reduce the value of my property?

While it may not reduce the actual value, a cluttered landscape next door can detract from the positive aspects of your home. Review your local laws, which should be on file at the public library, county law library or City Hall.

A typical "junk vehicle" ordinance, for example, requires any disabled car to either be enclosed or placed behind a fence. And most cities prohibit parking any vehicle on a city street too long. It also may be worthwhile to check into local zoning ordinances.

An operator of a home-based business usually is required to obtain a variance or permanent zoning change in residential areas. In addition, if a neighbor's repair work produces loud noises, he may be breaking local noise-control ordinances, which are enforced by the police department. Before bringing in the authorities, you may want to make a copy of the pertinent ordinance and give it to your neighbor to give them a chance to correct the problem.

I pull out all the stops to sell your home.

Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 206-406-2710
E-Mail : snyder@kw.com
Website: http://www.callsnyder.com/
Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com/

Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue

Updated Renton Real Estate, Newcastle Real Estate & South Bellevue Real Estate Market Statistics (As of June 13th, 2008)

These numbers are based on a three month historical analysis that is updated on a weekly basis.

MLS Area 500 (Newcastle, Bellevue South of I-90 & Issaquah South of I-90)
Single Family Homes
Average Days on Market: 93 Days (No Change From Last Week)
Inventory of Active Listings: 603 (Up from 591 Last Week)
Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 225 (Up From 165 Last Week)
Average List Price: $888,917 (Up from $888,342 Last Week)
Average Sale Price: $751,967 (Up from $737,816 Last Week)
Median Sale Price: $623,000 (Up from $615,000 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 500 for Single Family Homes: This market has seen rate increases for three weeks in a row. However, the area still favor buyers over sellers. A market is considered balanced when the supply of homes is closer to a six month supply.

Condominiums
Average Days on Market: 77 Days (Up From 67 Last Week)
Inventory of Active Listings: 158 Active Listings (Up from 149 Last Week)
Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 80 (Up from 52 Last Week)
Average List Price: $335,146 (Down from $335,408 Last Week)
Average Sale Price: $346,088 (Up from $337,467 Last Week)
Median Sale Price: $325,000 (Up from $315,500 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 500 for condos: The condo market in MLS Area 500 had been fighting to stay within buyer territory for the last three months with moderate success. There was a small boost in the average sale price. Looks like summer is here.

MLS Area 350 (Northeast Renton / Renton Highlands, East Highlands, Briarwood)
Single Family Homes
Average Days on Market: 102 Days (No Change From Last Week)
Inventory of Active Listings: 462 (Up from 453 Last Week)
Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 266 (Down from 181 Last Week)
Average List Price: $526,687 (Down from $565,097 Last Week)
Average Sale Price: $486,395 (Up from $474,348 Last Week)
Median Sale Price: $425,000 (Down from $420,000 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 350 for Single Family Homes: Last week’s numbers show that buyer activity remained strong with average days on market holding steady .Things look great for buyers which means the same is true for sellers who are willing to price their homes correctly in this MLS Area.

Condominiums
Average Days on Market: 78 Days (Up from 75 Last Week)
Inventory of Active Listings: 94 Active Listings (Up from 89 last week)
Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 36 (Down from 37 last Week)
Average List Price: $250,116 (Up from $249,390 Last Week)
Average Sale Price: $243,280 (Down from $241,593 Last Week)
Median Sale Price: $245,000 (Down from $254,990 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 350 for condos: Real estate trends indicate a shift a market that favors buyers over sellers in this MLS Area. A market with a six month supply of homes is considered balanced between buyers and sellers. A market with less than a six month supply of homes typically favors buyers. Buyers are taking advantage of the over pricing here.

MLS Area 340 (Southeast Renton / Cascade, Tiffany Park, Talbot Hill, Benson Hill, Fairwood)
Single Family Homes
Average Days on Market: 95 Days (Up From 94 Last Week)
Inventory of Active Listings: 403 (Down from 409 Active Listings Last Week)
Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 189 (Down from 190 Last Week)
Average List Price: $441,179 (Down from $442,052 Last Week)
Average Sale Price: $369,405 (Down from $374,352 Last Week)
Median Sale Price: $359,950 (Down from $388,407 Last week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 340 for Single Family Homes: Based on the numbers where everything went down basically says there are buyers out there but they are only interested in the homes that are priced correctly for their condition and location.

Condominiums
Average Days on Market: 84 Days (No change from Last Week)
Inventory of Active Listings: 111 Active Listings (Up from 110 Last Week)
Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 57 (Down from 62 last Week)
Average List Price: $231,773 (Down from $234,457 Last Week)
Average Sale Price: $225,821 (Down from $232,259 Last Week)
Median Sale Price: $223,000 (Down from $230,000 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 340 for Condos: The condo market in MLS Area 340 had been fighting to stay within buyer territory for the last three months with moderate success. It is a little more difficult for first time home buyers to get approved for their loans.

If you are interested in statistical information for an MLS area not covered here, please respond to this post to let me know what neighborhood you live in and I will follow up with the statistics specific to your area of interest. You are also welcome to visit my website at www.callsnyder.com where you can access my Market Snapshot research tool found on the left side of the homepage.

This information is deemed reliable but it is not guaranteed to be 100% accurate. I generated these statistics using the Northwest Multiple Listing Service. These statistics were not compiled or published by the Northwest Multiple Listing Service. The analysis of each MLS Area is based on the market statistics but is the personal opinion of the author.

Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 206-406-2710
E-Mail : snyder@kw.com
Website: http://www.callsnyder.com
Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com

Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.

Top Ten Signs That It's Time To Own Your Own Home

So you have found yourself starting to look at homes and even picking up flyer's. But are you ready to buy a home?

What are some of the signs that it's time to own a home.

10. You're ready to stop paying your landlord's mortgage payment, and essentially financing his retirement.

9. You really need the tax deductions associated with property taxes and mortgage interest.

8. You want to have a vested interest in your community.

7. You can no longer tolerate waiting a week, in the middle of summer, for your landlord to send a repair person to fix your air conditioning unit.

6. You are working at a job where you aren't required to relocate out of the country every three years.

5. You want to provide your family with a sense of stability and plant roots.

4. The number of members of your household more than double the number of bedrooms in your current residence.

3. You want your home to be your castle, your domain, your own property, which you can improve in any way you please.

2. You are tired of saving all your quarters for the laundromat.

1. When you say you are "going home", you want to really mean it!

I pull out all the stops! Give me a call to help make your dream a reality.

Lonnie Snyder

REALTOR®

Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound

Phone: 206-406-2710

E-Mail : snyder@kw.com

Website: http://www.callsnyder.com/

Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com/

Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.

What is the best time to sell your house?

There is no "best" time to sell per say. Selling a house depends on supply, demand and other economic factors.



But the time of year in which you choose to sell can make a difference both in the amount of time it takes to sell your home and in the ultimate selling price. Weather conditions are less of a consideration in more temperate climates, but most of the time, the real estate market picks up as early as February, with the strongest selling season usually lasting through May and June.
With the onset of summer, the market slows. July is often the slowest month for real estate sales due to a strong spring market putting possible upward pressure on interest rates. Also, many prospective home buyers and their agents take vacations during mid-summer. Following the summer slowdown, real estate sales activity tends to pick up for a second, although less vigorous, fall market, which usually lasts into November when the market slows again as buyers and sellers turn their attention to the holidays.
If this makes you wonder if you should take your home off the market for the holidays, consider the advice of veteran agents: You are always more likely to sell your house if it is available to show to prospective buyers continuously.
The Real Estate Marke also vareys from state to state. It pays to consoult a REALTOR®.

I pull out all the stops to sell your home!

Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 206-406-2710
E-Mail : snyder@kw.com
Website: http://www.callsnyder.com/
Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com/

Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.

What to consider when buying a condo

The condominium market has been rising steadily for the past few years. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, the condo market has regained the momentum and importance it had in the initial condo boom of the 1980s.
Condo buyers fall into three main groups: first-time buyers making the jump from renting; people looking to buy a second home that they will use part-time; and retirees who are trading in high-end homes for the low-maintenance lifestyle a condo provides. A condominium can be a great purchase under the right set of circumstances.

Before you buy a condominium, make sure you understand exactly what is involved in condo living. When purchasing a condo, the owner buys the title to his or her individual unit, up to the walls, but not including them. A common description of a condominium is a “box in the air.”
Rules to live by :
Condominiums are governed by a set of rules called Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs). The rules vary from one condo development to another. They may impose restrictions on pet ownership, noise levels, remodeling projects, and renting. The CC&Rs are enforced by the condo association. It’s a good idea to read the CC&Rs to make sure that you are comfortable with them before you purchase a condominium.
Common Area :
The common areas of the development, such as stairwells, dividing and outer walls, fitness centers and rooftop gardens, are under shared ownership. Each unit owner holds an interest in these spaces. In order to manage the maintenance and repair of the shared common areas, every condo development has a condominium association, also known as a unit-owners’ association. The association is elected by condo owners and makes communal decisions in the interest of the community.
Condo costs include:
• down payment, mortgage and property tax.
• Condo fees, otherwise known as maintenance fees. Condo fees are paid by every resident to help with the maintenance of the building, pay the salaries of groundskeepers, concierges or handymen, and provide luxury facilities such as a pool, gym or rooftop garden. Condo fees are paid monthly and are subject to change.
• Special assessment fees. These fees may be requested when an unexpected repair or planned modification exceeds the cost of the condo fees collected.
Now with the record number of foreclosures, one of the residual points of concern is when condo owner’s dues begin to suffer. When a condominium goes into foreclosure, more than likely the dues for that unit have not been paid for months – long before the property went into foreclosure.
Considering a monthly condo fee of $400, each unit represents $4,800 to the income of the condominium owners association. Now what happens when the condo owners quit paying their fees, then the condo association may face a shortfall such that it will not be able to pay its bills, for instance, pool care, maintenance and utilities.
The association could also begin requiring escrowing three months’ of condo fees to protect the governing body from this type of problem.
Your biggest help can be your professional REALTOR®.

Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 206-406-2710
E-Mail : snyder@kw.com
Website: http://www.callsnyder.com/
Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com/
Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.

Light recipe: Chocolate Kahlua Brownies

Makes 16 brownies
- 1-½ cups sugar
- ½ cup egg substitute
- 3 tablespoons Kahlua or other coffee-flavored liqueur
- ¼ cup stick margarine, melted
- 1-¼ cups sifted cake flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup finely chopped walnuts
- Vegetable cooking spray
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. With an electric mixer, beat together sugar, egg substitute, liqueur and melted margarine until blended.
2. Combine cake flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt. Add to the sugar mixture, beating just to blend. Fold in walnuts.
3. Spray a 9-inch square baking pan with vegetable cooking spray. Transfer batter to the pan and bake 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Cool completely on a rack before cutting.
Data per brownie
Calories 161
Protein 2g
Fat 5g
Carbohydrates 28g
Sodium 81mg
Saturated fat 1g
Monounsaturated fat 2g
Polyunsaturated fat 2g
Cholesterol 0g
From "Cooking Light: Guilt Free Desserts"

I love chocolate. I would love to see any other recipes that you have.

Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 206-406-2710
E-Mail : snyder@kw.com
Website: http://www.callsnyder.com/
Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com/

Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.

Updated Renton Real Estate, Newcastle Real Estate & South Bellevue Real Estate Market Statistics (As of June 2nd, 2008)

These numbers are based on a three month historical analysis that is updated on a weekly basis.
MLS Area 500 (Newcastle, Bellevue South of I-90 & Issaquah South of I-90)Single Family HomesAverage Days on Market: 93 Days (Down From 97 Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 591 (Up from 562 Last Week)Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 165 (Down From 253 Last Week)47 listings are absorbed by demand each month on average. (Down From 51 Last Week)11 Months Worth of Supply (Up from 8.5 Last Week)Average List Price: $885,342 (Up from $883,481 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $737,816 (Down from $747,990 Last Week)Median Sale Price: $615,000 (Down from $625,000 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 500 for Single Family Homes: This market has seen drops in the absorption rate for three weeks in a row. However, the area still favor buyers over sellers based on the fact that there is an 11 month supply of homes. A market is considered balanced when the supply of homes is closer to a six month supply.
CondominiumsAverage Days on Market: 67 Days (Down From 69 Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 149 Active Listings (Up from 144 Last Week)Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 52 (Down from 99 Last Week)15 listings are absorbed by demand each month on average. (Down From 20 Last Week)7.8 Months Worth of Supply (Up from 7.2 Last Week)Average List Price: $335,408 (Down from $337,384 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $337,467 (Up from $321,810 Last Week)Median Sale Price: $315,500 (Up from $306,900 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 500 for condos: The condo market in MLS Area 500 had been fighting to stay within buyer territory for the last three months with moderate success. The absorption rate is at 7.8 months. (a six month supply is considered a balanced market).MLS Area 350 (Northeast Renton / Renton Highlands, East Highlands, Briarwood) Single Family HomesAverage Days on Market: 102 Days (Down from 103 Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 453 (Up from 459 Last Week)Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 181 (Down from 311 Last Week)54 listings are absorbed by demand each month on average. (Down from 62 Last Week)8.2 Months Worth of Supply (Up from 7.4 Months Last Week)Average List Price: $565,097 (Down from $579,342 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $474,384 (Down from $497,702 Last Week)Median Sale Price: $420,000 (Down from $436,000 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 350 for Single Family Homes: Last week’s numbers show that buyer activity remained strong. The average days on market went down. The absorption rate is the key number to watch. At 8.2 months, things look great for buyers which means the same is true for sellers who are willing to price their homes correctly in this MLS Area.
CondominiumsAverage Days on Market: 75 Days (No Change From Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 89 Active Listings (Up from 83 last week)Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 37 (Down from 48 last Week)9.7 listings are absorbed by demand each month on average. (Down from 10 Last Week)8.9 Months Worth of Supply (Up from 8.2 Months Last Week)Average List Price: $249,390 (Down from $252,390 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $241,593 (Down from $244,503 Last Week)Median Sale Price: $254,990 (Up from $245,000 last week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 350 for condos: Real estate trends indicate a shift a market that favors buyers over sellers in this MLS Area. The absorption rate dropped is 9.7 months. A market with a six month supply of homes is considered balanced between buyers and sellers. A market with less than a six month supply of homes typically favors buyers.
MLS Area 340 (Southeast Renton / Cascade, Tiffany Park, Talbot Hill, Benson Hill, Fairwood)Single Family HomesAverage Days on Market: 94 Days (Up From 93 Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 409 (Up from 395 Active Listings Last Week)Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 190 (Up from 232 Last Week)44 listings are absorbed by demand each month on average. (Up from 46 Last Week)9.1 Months Worth of Supply (Up from 8.5 Months Worth of Supply Last Week)Average List Price: $442,052 (Up from $437,413 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $374,352 (Down from $374,629 Last Week)Median Sale Price: $388,470 (Up from $361,855 Last week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 340 for Single Family Homes: Based on an absorption rate of 9.1 months, this market now favors buyers over sellers. An average of 44 listings are being absorbed each month out of 406 listings available for purchase which basically says there are buyers out there but they are only interested in the homes that are priced correctly for their condition and location.
CondominiumsAverage Days on Market: 84 Days (No change from Last Week)Inventory of Active Listings: 110 Active Listings (Up from 109 Last Week)Inventory of Sold & Pending Listings: 62 (Down from 63 last Week)12 listings are absorbed by demand each month on average. (Down From 13 Last Week)8.6 Months Worth of Supply (Up from 8.3 Last Week)Average List Price: $234,457 (Down from $233,948 Last Week)Average Sale Price: $232,259 (Down from $235,819 Last Week)Median Sale Price: $230,000 (No change from $230,000 Last Week) (1/2 sell for more & 1/2 sell for less)
Analysis of MLS Area 340 for Condos: The condo market in MLS Area 340 had been fighting to stay within buyer territory for the last three months with moderate success. The absorption rate is at 8.6 months. (a six month supply is considered a balanced market).
If you are interested in statistical information for an MLS area not covered here, please respond to this post to let me know what neighborhood you live in and I will follow up with the statistics specific to your area of interest. You are also welcome to visit my website at http://www.callsnyder.com/ where you can access my Market Snapshot research tool found on the left side of the homepage.
This information is deemed reliable but it is not guaranteed to be 100% accurate. I generated these statistics using the Northwest Multiple Listing Service. These statistics were not compiled or published by the Northwest Multiple Listing Service. The analysis of each MLS Area is based on the market statistics but is the personal opinion of the author.

Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 206-406-2710
E-Mail : snyder@kw.com
Website: http://www.callsnyder.com/
Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com/
Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.

Looking to sell your home in a buyer’s market

Feeling low about the slowing housing market in the Renton, Kent, Seattle, Washington areas? It's no wonder, with all the "gloom and doom" reports in the media. There is hope for the housing market; it's what experts have been saying all along and it's worth repeating: Real estate is local; changing from state to state and even city to city. Not all markets are suffering. In fact, according to a recent report in Money magazine, more than half of the major housing markets in the U.S. saw prices stay the same or go up.The good news in all of this? It depends on your situation. As a homeowner, you may not have anything to worry about (particularly if you're planning to stay in your home awhile). If you're a buyer, you've no doubt discovered opportunities--and deals--abound. Thinking of selling your home? You can do it--and come out a winner--with our expert tips for making the most of today's market.
Price It Right
Your home has to hit the market running. If you’re asking price is too high, you'll turn buyers away--and they won't look back. (Remember: They've got lots of other homes to choose from.) Your home has to look like the best deal on the block. We'll research the actual "sold for" prices on comparable homes in the area to determine how to price your property.
Clean Up Your Act
Pretend that your fussy Aunt May is coming over for a visit--and bringing her white gloves. Every nook and cranny in your home must sparkle like never before. The American Society of Appraisers (ASA) suggests clearing your home of clutter (fridge magnets, piles of bills, etc.) and personal knick-knacks (family photos, souvenirs, etc.) even if you have to put it all in storage until your home sells. Sparse and simple will make your rooms look bigger and allows buyers to picture themselves living in the home. The ASA says the best thing you can do to update the look of your home is to give the outside and the inside a fresh coat of paint and add new carpet. Two neutral colors (wall and trim) not white is best. Also, if you're going to spend any money on landscaping, take care of the front yard first. It's more important to buyers that a home looks good from the street.
Offer Perks
You've done all you can to set your home apart from the others on the block--or have you? Consider giving your buyer a little financial nudge in your direction by paying points, offering to help with the down payment (especially appealing to a first-time home buyer), contributing to the closing costs, etc. Purchasing a home warranty or offering to pay homeowner association fees (if applicable) are relatively inexpensive ways to entice buyers.
Have Your Home Pre-Inspected
While home inspections traditionally have been requested and paid for by the buyer after an offer was made and accepted on the home, many sellers are now having their homes inspected before any buyers walk through the door. The idea is simple: With a pre-inspection, sellers can find and fix any potential problems that might put the sale of their home at risk. Beyond price you might also consider having an energy audit performed, particularly if you've made energy-efficient upgrades to your home. Your home may be able to boast money-saving features that will translate into real savings for your home's next owners--a huge selling point!
Pull Out All The Stops
This is no time to sit back and put your feet up. You'll need to work closely with your agent to ensure you're doing everything you can to help sell your home. Consider all offers your agent presents to you and respond quickly to them. Pass along any feedback you receive from potential buyers (important intelligence to have on hand!).

Finally, tell friends, neighbors and co-workers you're selling your home. Several of these people may already know who wants to buy a home in your area and, upon learning your home is for sale, will refer potential buyers to us. I will, of course, market your home through appropriate signage, the local multiple listing service, networking with the local community, advertising in real estate media and online, and much more.

I pull out all the stops to sell your home!
Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 206-406-2710
E-Mail : snyder@kw.com
Website: http://www.callsnyder.com/
Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com/
Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.

Pacific northwest events on the calendar

With the coming of spring the days get longer, the air gets warmer, the birds begin to sing. As you look around, you see many changes taking place but the most stunning transformation has to be in the plants. Almost magically, barren branches start to bud, brown grass turns green, and tiny little shoots push up through the soil; and with the changing of the season, we close another chapter of events that have come to define winters in the Pacific Northwest.
Nonetheless, when one door closes, another opens and with that, we are given an opportunity to enjoy the vast array of springtime activities that are also unique to our region.
If you are looking for things to do in Renton, Newcastle, Bellevue and the surrounding area, I have updated my Local Community Events Calendar found online at: http://www.bensonhillnews.com/index.php?pageId=calendar

There are literally hundreds of Pacific Northwest events on the calendar. Some of the most recent additions have been added to the pre-school programs page and are listed below.

Jazz Tuesdays: 5-8 PMCost: Free. IKEA Restaurant, 601 SW 41st St., Renton. www.ikea-usa.com/seattle

JubilantBands perform at various times Friday and Saturday305 Burnett Ave. S., Renton WA425-226-1544 or http://www.jubilante-restaurant.com/

RUSH - May 31st - Gorge at George www.hob.com/venues/concerts/gorge

INXS - June 3rd - Marymoor Park http://www.concertsatmarymoor.com/

Keb’Mo’ / Taj Mahal - June 24th & 25th - Zoo Tunes at Woodland
Park www.zoo.org/zootunes

John Hiatt - June 29th - Marymoor Park http://www.concertsatmarymoor.com/

Indigo Girls - June 29th - Zoo Tunes at Woodland Park www.zoo.org/zootunes

The Police - July 12th - Gorge at George www.hob.com/venues/concerts/gorge

Rob Thomas & Jason Mraz - July 12th - Marymoor Park http://www.concertsatmarymoor.com/

Widespread Panic - July 14th & 15th - Marymoor Park http://www.concertsatmarymoor.com/

Marc Cohn / Aimee Mann - July 16th - Zoo Tunes at Woodland Park www.zoo.org/zootunes

Emmylou Harris - July 24th - Zoo Tunes at Woodland Park www.zoo.org/zootunes

String Cheese Incident - August 1st & 2nd - Marymoor Park http://www.concertsatmarymoor.com/

Steve Miller Band - August 2nd - Gorge at George www.hob.com/venues/concerts/gorge

Nickel Creek - August 11th - Marymoor Park http://www.concertsatmarymoor.com/

Boz Scaggs - August 13th - Zoo Tunes at Woodland Park www.zoo.org/zootunes

Tom Petty - August 15th & 16th - Gorge at George www.hob.com/venues/concerts/gorge

Ani DiFranco - August 18th - Marymoor Park http://www.concertsatmarymoor.com/

The Avett Brothers - August 27th - Zoo Tunes at Woodland Park www.zoo.org/zootunes

Dave Matthews Band - August 29th - 31st - Gorge at George www.hob.com/venues/concerts/gorge

Los Lonely Boys - August 30th - Marymoor Park http://www.concertsatmarymoor.com/

Bumbershoot - August 30th - September 1st - Seattle Center http://www.bumbershoot.com/

If you have something you would like to see added to the calendar, please submit your request by going to the community calendar page and click add an event at the top. Please limit your event postings to those taking place in Washington State’s King, Pierce, Thurston, Snohomish, Skagit, Lewis, Mason, Island, Grays Harbor and/or Kitsap counties.

Event information is subject to cancellation or change. Please phone ahead to confirm event dates, times and costs.
Have a great weekend!


Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 206-406-2710
E-Mail: snyder@kw.com
Website: http://www.callsnyder.com/
Blogsite: http://www.renton-real-estate.blogspot.com/
Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue areas.

How do I get the real scoop on homes I am looking at?

When you are looking at homes in the Renton, Kent, Seattle area how can you find out what you are looking at. Home inspections, seller disclosure requirements and the agent's experience will help. Here is a summary of the things you could expect to see in a disclosure form:
* In the kitchen -- a range, oven, microwave, dishwasher, garbage disposal, trash compactor.
* Safety features such as burglar and fire alarms, smoke detectors, sprinklers, security gate, window screens and intercom.
* The presence of a TV antenna or satellite dish, carport or garage, automatic garage door opener, rain gutters, sump pump.
* Amenities such as a pool or spa, patio or deck, built-in barbeque and fireplaces.
* Type of heating, condition of electrical wiring, gas supply and presence of any external power source, such as solar panels.
* The type of water heater, water supply, sewer system or septic tank also should be disclosed.
Sellers also are required to indicate any significant defects or malfunctions existing in the home's major systems. A checklist specifies interior and exterior walls, ceilings, roof, insulation, windows, fences, driveway, sidewalks, floors, doors, foundation, as well as the electrical and plumbing systems.
The form also asks sellers to note the presence of environmental hazards, walls or fences shared with adjoining landowners, any encroachments or easements, room additions or repairs made without the necessary permits or not in compliance with building codes, zoning violations, citations against the property and lawsuits against the seller affecting the property.
Also look for, or ask about, settling, sliding or soil problems, flooding or drainage problems and any major damage resulting from earthquakes, floods or landslides.
People buying a condominium must be told about covenants, codes and restrictions or other deed restrictions.
It's important to note that the simple idea of disclosing defects has broadened significantly in recent years. Many jurisdictions have their own mandated disclosure forms as do many brokers and agents. Also, the home inspection and home warranty industries have grown significantly to accommodate increased demand from cautious buyers. Be sure to ask questions about anything that remains unclear or does not seem to be properly addressed by the forms provided to you. I would be happy to help.

Should I have a home warranty?

If you are buying a house in Renton, Kent or greater Seattle area, You should have a home warranty.

What is a home warranty?

The standard home warranty is a one-year service contract that protects a resale home buyer or current homeowner against the cost of unexpected repairs or replacement of major systems and appliances that break down due to normal usage. Coverage is also available to home sellers during the listing and escrow period to help them keep unforeseen breakdowns from potentially delaying the close of sale.

How does a home warranty help me?

Old Republic Home Protection customers enjoy peace of mind, convenience, budget protection, and easy, dependable service. No more "searching the Yellow Pages" for a reputable repairman, no more "hassles" over the cost of repairs, no more "budget busting" repair bills.

Who handles the repairs?

Old Republic Home Protection maintains a network of qualified independent service contractors to serve you. The independent contractors we use have been carefully screened and meet our stringent service standards. We also follow up on every call to ensure that you are satisfied with the service that you have received.

Do home warranty plans cover appliance or system replacement?

Yes. You may already have warranties on individual items in your home, check these warranties carefully, since they may only cover parts and/or labor. With Old Republic Home Protection, parts, labor, and system replacement are all covered. Please review our Plan for complete coverage terms & conditions.

What is the difference between my homeowner insurance policy and a home warranty plan?

Old Republic Home Protection's one-year home warranty covers items not covered under your standard homeowner policy-filling a critical gap in the protection of your home. For example, if your dishwasher leaks and water damages the floor, your homeowner's insurance policy may cover the damage to the floor, but not the repair or replacement of the dishwasher. With an Old Republic Home Warranty, your dishwasher is covered!




If your looking to buy in Renton I make sure that all my clients get a Home Warranty. Call me to find out how you can get your home warranty.

Protecting your property

There is a lot that you can do to be prepared for an Emergency.
The City of Renton, like all communities in the Puget Sound region, is susceptible to any number of natural or man-made disasters. These include earthquake, fire, flood or other technical disasters. During the first 72 hours of a major incident, City services may be stretched to their limits and resources will be directed to locations where the need is the greatest.
During a disaster such as a major windstorm, flooding, or earthquake, all official radio communication channels within the City could potentially be jammed with emergency traffic. Recognizing the uncertain nature of emergency communications, the Renton Fire and Emergency Services Department coordinates a group of amateur radio operators that help the City during emergencies.
The City of Renton does have an Emergency Response Plan in place to provide for recovery after a disaster; however, these plans take time to implement and individuals and families need to develop a degree of self-reliance for the first 72 hours. To help prepare for a disaster, the City of Renton encourages citizens to:
Assemble a Disaster Supply Kit
Determine a central contact (preferably out of state)
Learn CPR and First Aid
Determine a central meeting point outside your home
Find out how to shut off the water, gas, and electricity
Attend an Earthquake/Disaster Preparedness Class
Develop a Family Emergency Preparedness Plan
Avoid Chimney Related Hazards
Other Resources that can help you prepair is the Disaster Preparation Handbook published by the Washington State Emergency Management Division and the Department of Health.
Visit King County's Personal Preparedness Website to learn how to develop a family disaster plan, what to include in your disaster kit, and what is needed to shelter-in-place. Whether it be at home, school, work, or when you're outside, Be Prepared!
Look for additional emergency-related information at the Washington State Department of Emergency Management.
Ready.gov is a common sense framework designed to launch a process of learning about citizen preparedness. One of the primary mandates of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is to educate the public, on a continuing basis, about how to be prepared in case of a national emergency.
If you are interested in obtaining any booklets or specific information, please contact the Fire Department at 425.430.7027 or send email.

But what about your property. It is your biggest investment.
While it's difficult to predict when a natural disaster might strike -- and what kind of damage it could cause -- you can take steps to protect your home and your belongings. Money magazine offers these "before and after" financial tips to consider:
Before Disaster Strikes:
Update your homeowners insurance policy. Be sure to include any recent renovations or improvements.
Consider buying a replacement-cost policy rather than an actual-cash-value policy, so that you'll be compensated for the amount it costs you to replace your belongings.
Create an inventory of your household items. One way is to use a video recorder and narrate as you go, noting specific details such as serial numbers. Or, take still photographs and make a list. Make sure to store these items and other important documents in a water- and fire-proof container or safe-deposit box.
In The Aftermath:
Contact your insurance company immediately, even if you're not sure if your policy covers the type of damage you've suffered.
If you're ready to clean up but concerned about moving anything before the insurance adjuster shows up, take pictures first.
Save all receipts -- even for incidental costs like gas and meals -- related to the disaster.
Before you bring in a contractor to rebuild or repair, you'd be wise to get several bids in writing. Also, Money advises making sure the job has been completed to your satisfaction before you pay the total bill.
If your home is uninhabitable, have utilities (water, gas, electricity) and phone service stopped, and contact creditors immediately if you think you'll have trouble paying your bills.
You may be able to take advantage of available tax breaks for losses suffered; consult your insurance representative and/or financial or tax advisor about your specific situation.

I love my Tankless Hot water installed by Maple Valley Plumbing.

I recently bought a house in Renton. My wife & kids love living in the Benson Hill area. With the prices in Renton Real Estate we were able to sell and buy a newer house that needs a little work.
After some evaluation I found out that the tankless water heater is a more efficient way to heat water. It heats water quickly and delivers an endless supply of hot water for as long as you need it. With the tankless water heater, you only pay to heat water when you need it and for as long as you want it.
That mean it doesn’t matter if I took a shower before or after the kids. Everyone had enough hot water to finish their shower. Here are a few of the points that I love about my tankless water heater.

1. Produce and supply endless streams of hot water to multiple outlets simultaneously without any fluctuation in temperature
   
2. Are up to 30 percent more energy efficient than a traditional natural gas water heater and up to 50 percent more efficient than an electric water heater
   
3. Shut-off automatically when the water supply is closed, providing users with significant energy savings - in turn saving money on their utility bills
   
4. Are compact wall mounted units with a life expectancy of 20 years, whereas hot water tanks require about 16 square feet of floor space and usually last around 10 years
   

After all, who doesn’t need a little more space or money?

Now another important note is you need someone you can trust to install it properly for you. I had a number of company’s come out and talk to me. One wanted to charge me just for the estimate. Forget that people. Maple Valley Plumbing has built a reputation in the Maple Valley area by providing unparalleled service to their customers. With quality plumbing service at an affordable price I enjoyed the job they did for me. They have since helped me with other plumbing service and repair. You can contact them at Maple Valley Plumbing & Pipeworks, Inc 23312 Suite B Maple Valley Highway Maple Valley , WA 98038 Phone: 425-432-7599
If you have any questions about my Rinnai tankless water heater or Real Estate please email me.

Beyond the house itself, what should I look for in Renton Real Estate property?

Looking at Real Estate in Renton can be fun.
Once you've found the right home, take a good look at the land it's built on before you buy. Check for:

Easements: Whose are they and where are they located? Will you be able to build a garage, shed, fence or other improvements while avoiding the easement areas?
Flood: plain Is part of the lot marked for flooding areas? How often and for how long is the area under water? Has the house ever been flooded or threatened by high water?



Boundaries: Where are the true lot lines? Is the fence properly placed within the lot? Will there be room to build a deck or addition to the house later on?
Utility cables: Where are they located? Will it be possible to add phone lines or upgrade electrical capacity later? Hydrant How close is the nearest fire hydrant? This, and the proximity of the fire station, are often important when purchasing homeowner's insurance.
You may have to do a little research to answer some of these questions, and may want to make any contract contingent upon your being satisfied with the results.
Being a Real Estate professional I would be happy to help you. Please call me or email me with any questions.

Tips to cut your operating costs

Modern appliances may make life easier, but they also consume energy and water. Here are some tips for cutting appliance operating costs--without sacrificing convenience:
Gas stoves and ranges: If you're thinking of replacing your current range or oven with a new gas model, consider choosing a unit with an electronic ignition. Pilot lights burn gas--and money--24 hours a day. Also, when gas is being burned efficiently, the flames are blue; if they're yellow, call in a professional to have the unit adjusted or repaired.
Refrigerators: If yours is more than 10 years old, consider replacing it. At the very least, replace door seals that no longer fit tightly. If you have more than one refrigerator and a separate freezer, think about replacing them with a single larger refrigerator/freezer unit.
Clothes washer: Pre-1985 models can eat up valuable kilowatts. Upgrading to a newer, front-loading model can cut water consumption by about 25%.
Water heater: The National Association of Home Builders says heating water consumes nearly 13% of the average home's monthly energy bill. If your water heater is 10 or more years old, consider replacing it with a new, high-efficiency model.
Shower heads: The cost of installing low-flow models will be repaid with reduced energy costs to heat the water as well as lower water bills.
Toilets: Unlike early low-flow versions, today's low-flow toilets really work and can cut water use in half or better.

When looking for new appliances, search for those with ENERGY STAR certification to find the most efficient models. The ENERGY STAR website (www.EnergyStar.gov) offers information on certified products in more than 40 categories, along with a wealth of resources to help you plan and undertake projects to reduce your energy bills and improve home comfort.
Tips For The TakingFor tips on saving energy around the home, visit the website of the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) at EERE.energy.gov/consumer.
For printed information, call the EERE Information Center toll-free (877) 337 3463 for a copy of these free publications:

• Energy Savers: Tips on Saving Energy Money at Home
  
• Energy Savers Cool Summer Tips
  
• Energy Savers Hot Winter Tips

Feel like doing some spring cleaning?

The Benson Hill PTA Rummage Sale will be held May 31st from 9am - 4pm.
Donations will be received at the school cafeteria on Friday, May 30th, 3:10p.m. - 7p.m.
Suggested items to donate include: clothes, jewelry, furniture, CDs, DVDs, books, artwork, electronics, toys, bicycles.