SEATTLE AVENUE

Our stay at Rosario Resort found us in sunny skies and flip-flop weather. Our keelboat sailing course at Orcas Island Sailing was exhausting for me but a piece of cake for my husband who has been sailing since he was a kid. I passed the exam, got my little sticker, and am on the way to becoming a full-fledged Captain. For fun I may skipper those Ducks that cranky Seattleites moan about. QUACK! As we’re ruminating over how to remodel our boat we had a fabulous idea. Let’s go black and white! Again sailing reminds me of real estate.

Real estate across the country is making daily news and concerning both buyers and sellers. In Seattle our economy is robust and appreciation continues yet at the same time resales are selling much slower than anticipated and new construction is molasses. Price reductions follow.

As you’re ruminating over whether to sell or buy now or in the near future, my advice is to just get back to the basics. Keep it simple and uncomplicated - black and white. Buyers, make an appointment now with a good mortgage planner and look carefully at your financial situation. If you need to clear up credit issues or save more money do it now. Get pre-approved, be realistic, don’t overextend. Sellers, step it up and professionally prepare your property for sale. Don’t be cheap about hundreds and thousands of dollars, treat your property like the extremely valuable asset that it is and make the best presentation you can afford to make. Make repairs, pre-empt inspection issues, create a clear perception of high value. Make buyers want to pay for what you have. Perfecting the basics will reward you every time.

Speaking of perfecting the basics, as promised this month I have the story about luxury condos. Specifically condos over $1M. Many of these condos are as intensely delicious as a dish of the most decadent German Chocolate ice cream. Yumm-o!

NEW is the mortgage column with mortgage planner James Wirth at the helm. Ask James any and all of your financial questions!

Until November, stay warm and happy. And treat yourself to some luxury.