Home Seller Tips August 3, 2021

Why Taking Care of Your Buyer is Good for You Too

How you leave your home matters more than you think…

 

In our extreme seller’s market, today’s home buyers are paying top dollar (or beyond) for their home purchase, and like many people paying a premium, they expect to get what they pay for. As a result, they have little tolerance for adverse surprises. This has led to a significant uptick in post-closing claims.

One piece of advice we recommend to home sellers is to take good care of their buyer to leave a positive impression that makes them feel great about being the next owner your home. Aside from being the right thing to do, parting on good terms is likely to mitigate what could otherwise create headaches after the sale.

Here are a few suggestions for making sure your next home sale doesn’t leave you reaching for antacid weeks, months, or years down the road.

 

Disclose, disclose, disclose

Complete transparency is the best insurance policy

Let’s say you’ve had a [rodent, water intrusion, drainage, settling, lack of permits, etc.] issue in the past that you think is now resolved or shouldn’t matter. If you decide to say nothing, and buyer later has the same issue or hears about its history from neighbors or vendors, they will often perceive you as dishonest and put everything related to their home purchase through that filter. A few minor issues can quickly escalate into costly and avoidable litigation.

Take the same scenario but instead fully disclose the issue and any resolution that has occurred in your seller disclosure form (often referred to as Form 17). Now you have given the buyer an opportunity to evaluate any potential future risk. By disclosing a condition, the seller shifts the burden of investigation to the buyer. By remaining silent, a seller risks the appearance of concealment and a lawsuit. Think of it this way: disclose an issue and if the buyer accepts it, you move forward with no worries; fail to disclose and you could be looking over your shoulder for years. It is usually better to be over-insured than not insured at all. When something comes up after closing, buyer will be able to look back to your seller disclosure and see that you clearly disclosed the issue.

No house is perfect and when sellers claim there are no issues to explain, it sets off red flags for most buyers. Some sellers feel like disclosing every issue might make their home less valuable or attractive to buyers. In truth, you don’t want to sell to a buyer who would not have bought if they’d know the facts. It’s far better to find a buyer who is okay with existing issues and proceeds with a knowledgeable purchase than to live through months of emotional and financial drain resulting from post-closing claims.

Most buyers expect far more disclosure from the seller than the law requires. Sellers have a duty to disclose known defects or those that a prudent seller should have known. These can be related to physical condition or be things that affect the value or title. Sellers should consider disclosure to be a form of insurance. Instead of minimizing disclosures, a prudent seller will consider the property from the perspective of a buyer and then disclose what a buyer would want to know. Many of the conditions that lead to lawsuits would have been acceptable to the buyer if they had been disclosed in advance.

FORM 17 PROPERTY DISCLOSURE: Answer all questions accurately and include disclosure of anything the buyer may later perceive as an issue. Remember that by disclosing a condition, the seller shifts the burden of investigation to the buyer based on Washington court precedent. By remaining silent, a seller risks the appearance of concealment and a lawsuit.

SELLER PRE-INSPECTIONS: If you are providing a pre-inspection report to potential buyers, a more thorough report will offer your greater protection than a quick overview. If buyers can see overlooked items, they won’t trust the report, or you. While providing the report will likely protect you from most listed issues, if you have additional personal history with any issue, it should be detailed in your seller disclosure.

BIDS AND INVOICES: Frequently we hear stories about buyers seeking bids for a thought to be newly discovered issue only to hear from a vendor that they have been onsite before or even provided a bid. Savvy sellers will ensure that any issue they have received bids or invoices for is well documented in their disclosure and consider providing copies of recently obtained bids.

 

First impressions are lasting impressions

Leave the house the way you would want to find it

Sellers often ask how clean they need to leave a house or if they should repair the little dents and dings that often happen during a move out. Instead of think about the minimum requirement, consider thinking about how you would expect your home to be delivered if you were the buyer. Then think about the power of unexpected, pleasant surprises. Apartment managers, hotels, and merchandisers get this. Yet often in the hassle and craziness of our move out, we forget about the opportunity to create a great first impression that fosters good will down the road.

Your thoughtfulness doesn’t go unnoticed. Whether you need to pick up a package or mail that didn’t get forwarded, a family heirloom that was accidentally left in the attic, or otherwise connect with the buyer after the sale closes, having a positive relationship makes the process so much easier. We have found the best way to accomplish this is to plan ahead, before the moving chaos ensues, and engage pros where needed to ensure that you leave your home exactly the way you would want to find it.

MANUALS AND INSTRUCTIONS: Your home’s buyer will really appreciate having the manuals, notes and instructions that relate to how to operate the essential components of your home. It’s one of those things that is relatively easy for you assemble and invaluably resourceful for any buyer. Bonus points for sharing details about how to change codes, when garbage day is, and what’s planted in the yard.

KEYS, REMOTES AND ACCESSORIES: Our standard local purchase agreement requires delivery of all keys, remotes, and accessories on closing. If there are any locks that you do not have keys for, you should disclose that fact ahead of time or get them re-keyed for the buyer.

EXCLUDED ITEMS: If there is anything that appears attached or intended to be part of the real property and you wish to take with you, be sure to clarify this in your purchase agreement. Your broker can provide a complete list of items considered to convey with the property unless excluded. This avoids unhappy surprises and leaves everyone knowing what to expect.

Excluded Items Contract Snapshot

PROFESSIONAL-QUALITY CLEANING: While professional cleaning is not required by the purchase agreement, having your home professionally cleaned after moving out is a very considerate gesture. Hiring a pro to do this for you take the pressure off of you to come back and do a final cleaning yourself amongst the move out chaos.

ADDED TOUCHES: Some sellers take the time to write the buyer a personal note welcoming them to the home. This personal touch can often set the final tone for the transfer of your home and is well worth the effort.

 

Final thoughts

Taking care of your home’s buyer and leaving a good impression is priceless. So many times, it’s the little things that make all the difference. It not only makes you feel good, but it also makes them feel great about you and the home they’ve just spent sizable amount of money on. Like staging your home for sale to attract the highest and best offer, leaving your home in great condition, and with only happy surprises, will create the best possible post-closing experience for both you and the buyer.

Still have questions? Contact one of our knowledgeable brokers for assistance with selling your home.

 


 

Mercer island blog, windermere mercer island, windermere real estate, seattle blog, live on mercer, live on guides, community information, neighborhood information, real estate, mercer island community, mercer island community blog, mercer island blogger, mi reporter, mercer island real estate info,

Find a Home | Sell Your Home | Property Research

Neighborhoods | Market Reports | Our Team

We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative, and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.

2737 77th Ave SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040 | (206) 232-0446
mercerisland@windermere.com

© Copyright 2021 Windermere Mercer Island

Market Reports July 8, 2021

How’s the Market? Q2 Real Estate Review

Buyers found no relief as our region’s extreme sellers’ market continued skyward. Strong home buyer demand simply outpaced the number of available properties for sale. Fierce competition drove prices up 15% in Seattle and a staggering 38% on the Eastside as compared to Q2 of 2020. While COVID played a factor in early 2020; all things considered, prices have increased substantially in the first half of 2021.

 

Home affordability, or unaffordability, is one of the most significant factors impacting our communities. Many first-time buyers, retirees, and moderate wage earners are finding the tri-county region of King, Snohomish, and Pierce Counties simply out of reach…or find themselves settling for accommodations that are far less than expected. The Seattle area, much like other high-priced markets across the country, has become a region where only the affluent can afford to own real estate.

 

As we move into the summer, buyer fatigue, coupled with COVID reopening of recreation and vacation opportunities, may provide much needed dampening of buyer demand. Our market desperately needs more balance between buyers and sellers in the market.

 

Click or scroll down to find your area report:

Seattle  |  Eastside  |  Mercer Island  |  Condos  |  Waterfront

 


SEATTLE

Seattle’s Median Sale Price increased by 15% to $895,000 (up from $780,000 in Q2 2020). North end neighborhoods in Shoreline (+37%), Lake Forest Park-Kenmore (+37%), and North Seattle (+18%) outperformed the average while South Seattle (+9%), West Seattle (+11%). and Central Seattle (+12%) lagged slightly behind.

 

There was a 74% increase in the number of Seattle homes sold in Q2 (3,404) compared to Q2 2020 (1,956)—much of which can be attributed to COVID-related factors. Central Seattle (+116%) and West Seattle (+90%) had the largest increases in number of homes sold.

 

86% of all Seattle homes, and 33% of those priced above $1 million, sold at or above list, with the average of all homes sold at prices 6% more than list. Price increases were even more dramatic when homes sold in their first ten days on the market (76% of all listings) with an average sale price of 10% above list price. The most competitive neighborhoods were Kenmore-Lake Forest Park and North Seattle, with first 10-day sales averaging 15% and 13% above list price, respectively.

 

Seattle Recap

Click here for the full report and neighborhood-by-neighborhood statistics!

Seattle Report

 

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EASTSIDE

The Eastside’s Median Sale Price was $1,320,355 in Q2, up 38% over Q2 2020 ($958,000). Buyer demand outpacing the supply of homes for sale was the biggest factor fueling this increase. Redmond, (+48%), Kirkland (+48%), and South Eastside (+45%) saw the largest gains, while West Bellevue (+7%) had the smallest year-over-year increase.

 

93% of all Eastside homes, and 68% of homes priced above one million dollars, sold for at or above their list price. With 70% fewer homes for sale than in Q2 2020, the entire Eastside market remained ultra-competitive. The average of all homes sold was 9% above list price and homes sold within the first ten days went for an average of 13% above list price.

 

The Eastside market saw Months of Inventory (the number of months it would take to sell all homes currently for sale) remain at historical lows of between 0.3 and 0.4 months. Many Eastside communities have had only a handful of homes for sale at any one time.

 

Eastside Recap

Click here for the full report and neighborhood-by-neighborhood statistics!

Eastside Report

 

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MERCER ISLAND

Fewer than two dozen homes for sale on the Island at any given time has led to a continued ultra-competitive market with 90% of all homes sold at or above their listed price. Those sold in the first 10 days on market (77% of all sales) closed for an average of 13% above their list price. Homes on the market 11-30 days sold for an average of 1% above list and homes on the market longer than 30 days sold for an average of 4% below their list price.

 

Mercer Island Recap

Click here for the full report and neighborhood-by-neighborhood statistics!

Mercer Island Report

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CONDOS – SEATTLE & EASTSIDE

Condo demand surged in Q2 as single-family home markets became more competitive, and in some cases, unattainable.

 

Seattle condos saw a 7% increase (to $488,750) and Eastside condos saw a 5% increase (to $550,000) in Median Sale Price compared to Q2 2020. Fueled by new construction development, South Seattle saw a three-fold increase in the number of condos sold, while the number of West Bellevue condos sold was up nearly double.

 

61% of Seattle condos and 80% of Eastside condos sold at or above their listed price. Those that were sold in the first 10 days (48% of Seattle and 70% of Eastside sales) sold for an average of 2% and 5% above their list price, respectively.

 

Check out area-by-area details the full condo report.

 

Condo Report

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WATERFRONT

Waterfront listings were swooped up by buyers nearly as quickly as they came to market, some for staggering margins. Lake Sammamish had a record 18 sales while the Eastside had 17, Seattle 14, and Mercer Island had 7. Many waterfront homes went under contract in mere days, with an average market time in the teens instead of months.

 

As an indicator of demand in the luxury segment, most homes sold above their list price—something that historically has rarely happened in this sector. Some of most competitive homes sold for outrageously more than their list price as affluent buyers opened their pocketbooks for the win.

 

This brief overview of the entire Seattle-Eastside private waterfront market, including Mercer Island and Lake Sammamish, illustrates the trends occurring in our region over time. This data is interesting and insightful, but can’t replace an in-depth waterfront analysis provided by a savvy broker with years of local waterfront experience.

 

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Mercer island blog, windermere mercer island, windermere real estate, seattle blog, live on mercer, live on guides, community information, neighborhood information, real estate, mercer island community, mercer island community blog, mercer island blogger, mi reporter, mercer island real estate info,

Find a Home | Sell Your Home | Property Research

Neighborhoods | Market Reports | Our Team

We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative, and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.

2737 77th Ave SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040 | (206) 232-0446
mercerisland@windermere.com

© Copyright 2021, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island. Information and statistics derived from Northwest Multiple Listing Service and deemed accurate but not guaranteed.

Home Buyer Tips July 1, 2021

What is FIRPTA Certification?

A complete overview on why you need to know about it…

 

If you are purchasing property from a non-US individual or entity, you may be required to withhold taxes under the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980 (“FIRPTA”), 26 U.S.C. 1445 (unless one of the exceptions in the Act applies). The seller must complete a certification to inform both you (the purchaser) and the closing agent (typically the escrow company) whether tax withholding is required.

The above law applies to foreign corporations, partnerships, trusts, estates and other foreign entities, as well as to foreign individuals.  If the seller is a corporation, partnership, trust, estate or other entity, the terms “I” and “my” in the doc refer to the entity rather than an individual. A “real property interest” includes full or part ownership of land & any improvements; leaseholds; options to acquire any of the foregoing; and an interest in foreign corporations, partnerships, trusts or other entities holding U.S. real estate.

Under IRS code, the certification must include the property address, seller’s citizenship status, taxpayer identification number, and home address. Note that while the certification is delivered to the buyer prior to closing, social security numbers are not inserted until after the seller signs closing papers in order to prevent fraud.

Obtaining this completed certification is of critical importance because a home buyer can be personally liable for the full amount of FIRPTA withholding tax required to be withheld, plus penalties and interest. When a seller is a foreign person, the buyer and seller are advised to seek the guidance of an accountant or tax attorney to determine the best steps forward. Closing agents and real estate brokers are not qualified or permitted to provide tax advice or guidance.

 

What the FIRPTA Certification says about Required Withholding if the Seller is a Non-Resident Alien under IRS Guidelines

“If the seller is a non-resident alien, and has not obtained a release from the IRS, then the closing agent must withhold 15% of the amount realized from the sale and pay it to the IRS, unless the buyer certifies that the selected statement below is correct:

Amount Realized ($300,000 or less) and Family Residence= No Tax. (a) I certify that the total price that I am to pay for the property, including liabilities assumed and all other consideration to Seller, does not exceed $300,000; and (b) I certify that I or a member of my family* have definite plans to reside on the property for at least 50% of the time that the property is used by any person during each of the first two twelve-month periods following the date of this sale. If the buyer certifies these statements, there is no tax.

Amount Realized (more than $300,000, but not exceeding $1,000,000) and Family Residence= 10% Tax. (a) I certify that the total price that I am to pay for the property, including liabilities assumed and all other consideration to Seller, exceeds $300,000, but does not exceed $1,000,000; and (b) I certify that I or a member of my family* have definite plans to reside on the property for at least 50% of the time that the property is used by any person during each of the first two twelve-month periods following the date of this sale. If Buyer certifies these statements, then Closing Agent must withhold 10% of the amount realized from the sale and pay it to the IRS.

* (Defined in 11 U.S.C. 267(c)(4). It includes brothers, sisters, spouse, ancestors and lineal descendants).

Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this Certification and to the best of my knowledge and belief both statements are true, correct and complete. I understand that this Certification may be disclosed to the IRS and that any false statement I have made here could be punished by fine, imprisonment or both.”

 

Exceptions from FIRPTA Withholding

The IRS lists eleven exceptions to FIRPTA withholding listed on the IRS website. Of these, there are three that are more typically seen in residential real estate transactions:

OWNER-OCCUPIED BUYER: Sales price is $300,000 or less, and the individual buyer or a member of their family has definite plans to reside in the property for at least 50% of the number of days the property is used by any person during each of the first two 12-month periods following the sale.

NOT A FOREIGN SELLER: Seller signs a FIRPTA certification (form 22E) stating that the seller is not a foreign person.

WITHHOLDING CERTIFICATE: Before closing, seller obtains a withholding certificate from the IRS which reduces or eliminates the FIRPTA tax for the foreign person. The seller or transferor should also work with an accountant or tax attorney.

In most cases, the buyer or closing agent is the withholding agent. If you are the transferee/buyer, you must find out if the transferor is a foreign person by obtaining the FIRPTA Certification. If the transferor is a foreign person and you fail to withhold, you may be held liable for the tax. For cases in which a U.S. business entity such as a corporation or partnership disposes of a U.S. real property interest, the business entity itself is the withholding agent.

 

Delivery of the FIRPTA Certification is Required in NWMLS Purchase Agreements

Because this could be a significant aspect of a home purchase, our local MLS requires all sellers to disclose if they are a foreign person at the time of listing a property for sale. The seller’s real estate broker will also ask the seller to complete the FIRPTA Certification on a NWMLS Form 22E at that time.

The seller or their real estate broker must then deliver the completed NWMLS Form 22E (as part of the contract or separately to the closing agent) within 10 days after you have a mutually agreed upon contract. Failure to do so can create an out for the buyer.

The contract further requires seller to warrant their citizen status to buyer, provides instructions to the closing agent, and outlines the termination process in the event the FIRPTA Certification is not timely delivered.

Seller Citizenship and FIRPTA. Seller warrants that the identification of Seller’s citizenship status for purposes of U.S. income taxation in Specific Term No. 14 is correct. Seller shall execute a certification (NWMLS Form 22E or equivalent) under the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (“FIRPTA”) and provide the certification to the Closing Agent within 10 days of mutual acceptance. If Seller is a foreign person for purposes of U.S. income taxation, and this transaction is not otherwise exempt from FIRPTA, Closing Agent is instructed to withhold and pay the required amount to the Internal Revenue Service.

If Seller fails to provide the FIRPTA certification to the Closing Agent within 10 days of mutual acceptance, Buyer may give notice that Buyer may terminate the Agreement at any time 3 days thereafter (the “Right to Terminate Notice”). If Seller has not earlier provided the FIRPTA certification to the Closing Agent, Buyer may give notice of termination of this Agreement (the “Termination Notice”) any time following 3 days after delivery of the Right to Terminate Notice. If Buyer gives the Termination Notice before Seller provides the FIRPTA certification to the Closing Agent, this Agreement is terminated and the Earnest Money shall be refunded to Buyer.”

 

Definitions and Resources Related to FIRPTA

The IRS provides a Definitions of Terms and Procedures Unique to FIRPTA web page with helpful information, including how executors of estates, partnerships, corporations, and spouses (where only one spouse is a foreign person) should proceed.

In addition, there is also Individual Taxpayer ID Guidance for Foreign Property Buyers/Sellers to provide documentation requirements for individuals seeking an ITIN.

If you are looking for information on Reporting and Paying Tax on U.S. Real Property Interests or general Real Estate Tax Center guidance, you’ll find it on the IRS.gov website as well.

 

Final Thoughts…

Obtaining FIRPTA Certification in your home purchase and, when your seller is a foreign person, verifying that any required withholding is made is an important step you can take to provide peace of mind. This article is provided solely to inform you of the need to be alert to this issue. It does not replace competent legal or tax advice. You should also seek the guidance of a qualified professional regarding your individual situation.

 


 

Mercer island blog, windermere mercer island, windermere real estate, seattle blog, live on mercer, live on guides, community information, neighborhood information, real estate, mercer island community, mercer island community blog, mercer island blogger, mi reporter, mercer island real estate info,

We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative, and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.

2737 77th Ave SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040 | (206) 232-0446
mercerisland@windermere.com

© Copyright 2021 Windermere Mercer Island

Home Buyer Tips June 11, 2021

Thinking About Buying a Second or Vacation Home?

Here are a few tips to make sure it’s worthwhile…

These days, having your own home away from home is a compelling concept. There are many clear benefits including being able to use your home how you wish, decorate to your taste, and include your furry friends in your time away. There are also challenges to be considered as home security, maintenance, and holding expenses are nothing to ignore.

One consideration to start with is whether the home will be solely used by your family or become an income-producing vacation rental. In addition to being a lifestyle choice, this determination will impact your income taxes and insurance needs and should be made before you embark upon this journey.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both options:

 

Second Home for Your Personal UseIncome-Producing Vacation Rental


 

Owning as a Personal Second Home

 

PROS

  • Comfort: Returning to the same place is familiar and often more relaxing than staying in a hotel or vacation rental. It allows you to enjoy your space as you wish and include pets and hobbies in your home away from home. Proximity to your primary residence is an important factor. How long will it take to get there? You will likely visit more often if your second home takes under three hours to travel to. Choosing a location that you will enjoy for years to come is essential to making a good purchase decision.
  • Convenience: The ability to keep your possessions that are used exclusively at the second home simplifies travel and packing and makes it easier to be surrounded by the things you enjoy.
  • Long-term profit: While assets fluctuate in value in the short term, vacation properties are more likely to retain their value and appreciate because they are located in popular areas with a geographically limited supply. At some point you could have a nice nest egg or a property that becomes a family vacation home for future generations.
  • Future retirement options: A common retirement goal is to have a place to retreat for part of the year in addition to your main residence. Whether a second home will become a full-time venue in retirement or continue to be a part-time get-away, having it established before retirement gives you options.

CONS

  • Initial cost: Buying a second or vacation home is a big investment. Down payment requirements are typically higher on non-primary residences and that cash outlay can take away from other investment opportunities.
  • Maintenance: Your second or vacation home will require maintenance and upkeep just like your primary residence. You’ll need to plan to tackle that yourself or hire someone else to do it for you. Let it get away from you, and you will be spending your leisure time worrying about everything that needs to get done instead of relaxing.
  • Commitment: When you are paying a significant amount of money each month for a second or vacation home, you may feel that you need to constantly visit the property to justify your investment. You’ll need to ask yourself if the idea of going to the same place over and over again is appealing or a turn-off.
  • Other considerations: Evaluating and mitigating your exposure to natural disaster (fire, flood, earthquake, tsunami, etc.) and liability risks (guest injury, burglary, squatting, vandalism, arson) on a home that is vacant for much of the time is an important consideration. Determine how you will keep your home safe and secure.

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Owning as an Income-Producing Vacation Rental

 

PROS

  • Income to offset expenses: A good vacation rental property generally provides a healthy rental revenue which could potentially cover mortgage payments and operating expenses. Using an online short-term rental service like Airbnb makes it convenient to manage your rental property. Their website interface makes pricing, marketing, and communication with potential guests straightforward and easy. Airbnb will also oversee the billing process for you.
  • Tax considerations: You may qualify for federal tax breaks and deductions related to holding your investment property. This can help offset the expense of owning and provide investment opportunities for the future.
  • Long-term profit: Like a second home, vacation properties are more likely to retain their value and appreciate over time. At some point you could have a nice nest egg or a property that becomes a family vacation home for future generations.
  • Future retirement options: While there are tax considerations to converting an income-producing property into a personal use property, owning a vacation home allows you to insulate yourself against rising real estate prices and give you options for future use.

CONS

  • Initial cost: Buying a vacation home as an investment property will require both a hefty down payment and initial start-up expenses to furnish and supply the home. You will need to evaluate that cash outlay with other potential investment opportunities.
  • Management and maintenance: Vacation rentals can be costly to manage, both in terms of time and money. These properties may require seasonal upkeep and special maintenance considerations. You may even incur costs to maintain or monitor the property even when it’s not actively being utilized.
  • Revenue fluctuations: Vacation rental properties are particularly sensitive to seasonal fluctuations and economic downturns, which could leave you financially exposed. Having a property that is attractive in multiple seasons is a definite plus.
  • Short-term rental restrictions: Many state and local municipalities are seeking to reign in short-term vacation rentals, which could put a damper on potential revenue from these properties. Many now require a minimum rental period of 30 days. In contrast, there are locations that are ideal for these kinds of short-term rentals. Look into regional ordinances, do a Google search, and check out local newspapers to discover recent talk of changing or enforcing such codes.
  • Other considerations: In addition to evaluating and mitigating your exposure to natural disaster and liability risks, you will want to consider other holding expenses. These might include higher renovation and repair costs due to high-use or damage. Most travelers expect the latest appliances and furnishings, so you will have to update every few years. Unfortunately, short-term renters are less likely to report any necessary repairs and guests are far less likely to treat the property with respect since there is no sense of ownership or obligation.

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Final Thoughts

Regardless of your decision to use the property personally or as an investment, checking in with your CPA and financial advisor is a good first step. They can advise you of pros and cons of each approach, States that are more or less favorable to own a non-primary residence in, and whether you should establish a trust or LLC to hold the property in.

Having a savvy real estate broker help you understand the local scene, evaluate options, and provide vetted resources is essential, especially when you are looking in an area you are less familiar with.

Still have questions? Contact one of our knowledgeable brokers for assistance with exploring a second and vacation home purchase locally or a referral to a great broker in other areas you are considering.

 


 

Mercer island blog, windermere mercer island, windermere real estate, seattle blog, live on mercer, live on guides, community information, neighborhood information, real estate, mercer island community, mercer island community blog, mercer island blogger, mi reporter, mercer island real estate info,

Find a Home | Sell Your Home | Property Research

Neighborhoods | Market Reports | Our Team

We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative, and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.

2737 77th Ave SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040 | (206) 232-0446
mercerisland@windermere.com

© Copyright 2021 Windermere Mercer Island

Living & Community May 6, 2021

Thank You for Helping Us Support Eastside Baby Corner!

UPDATE—Our Drive Made a Difference for EBC!

We want to thank all of our clients, friends and family who pitched in to raise items and funds for the Eastside Baby Corner. In addition to your generous donations, our agents and owners personally donated a total of $7,772 along with hundreds of childcare items as part of our annual Community Service Day effort. Together, we made a difference for local kids in need. Thank you!

 

 


 

For the past 30 years, Eastside Baby Corner has been there to help kids access the essentials they need to grow, play, learn and thrive. As part of our annual Community Service Day, our agents and owners are pitching in to support EBC with funds and the items they need most right now. You can help too! Support local children from birth through 12 years old (and expectant mothers) with a donation of diapers, diaper wipes, shampoo, conditioner, detangler, body wash, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, or funds to purchase those items.

 

IN PERSON DROP-OFF

Drop off new items at our office: 2737 77th Ave SE, Mercer Island 98040  Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm

Plus, Saturday, May 22nd from 9 am-2pm during our annual paper shredding event (because why not get your old docs shredded for free while you’re doing something great for the community?!)

 

DONATE ONLINE

Contribute funds to allow Eastside Baby Corner staff to purchase the items most needed: Donate funds directly to Eastside Baby Corner

 

SHOP ONLINE

Choose items from EBC’s Wish List of needed items (ships directly to EBC)

 

PRINTABLE FLYER

View the PDF flyer with all the details

 

Windermere Community Service Day

 


We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.

 

Market Reports April 12, 2021

How’s the Market? Q1 Real Estate Review…

An extreme sellers’ market, driven by too few homes for sale and incredibly low mortgage interest rates, led to the most aggressive multiple offer bidding wars we have experienced in our region. There are simply dozens of buyers for nearly every home that comes to market. To be competitive, most buyers did their home research prior to writing an offer, waived typical protective contingencies—including financing, appraisal, title, and inspection—and drained their savings and investment accounts to pay cash or fund discrepancies between the purchase price and appraised value.

 

The ability to secure a suitable home in a neighborhood of choice is a luxury not afforded to many buyers, regardless of assets. Indeed, the lack of inventory for sale and competitiveness of the market has kept many current homeowners from moving to a home that would better suit their needs or commute.

 

Home affordability, or unaffordability, is at crisis levels. Most homes are completely unaffordable to first-time buyers and moderate wage earners who are finding it increasingly difficult to work and live within King County. Snohomish and Pierce Counties are not far behind. While cities and counties are coming to the table to address this issue, the potential solutions will take years to implement and see relief.

 

Time will tell if For Sale inventory levels will increase as we move further into our peak spring season market.

 

Click or scroll down to find your area report:

Seattle  |  Eastside  |  Mercer Island  |  Condos  |  Waterfront

 


SEATTLE

Seattle’s Median Sale Price increased by 7% to $800,000 (up from $750,000 a year ago in Q1 2020). Shoreline (+11%), Lake Forest Park-Kenmore (+11%), and South Seattle (+9%) outperformed the average while West Seattle (-2%) and Queen Anne-Magnolia (+4%) lagged.

 

There was a 39% increase in the number of Seattle homes sold in Q1 (2,271) compared to Q1 2020 (1,632)—much of which can be attributed to emerging COVID concerns in 2020 coupled with increased mobility in 2021. Queen Anne-Magnolia (+91%), West Seattle (+51%), and North Seattle (+47%) had the largest increases in number of homes sold, although all neighborhoods except Lake Forest Park-Kenmore saw double-digit increases in total sales.

 

75% of all Seattle homes, and 19% of those priced above $1 million, sold at or above their listed price. The most competitive Seattle markets were Kenmore-Lake Forest Park and North Seattle, with sales in the first 10 days averaging 111% and 110% of their listed price, compared to the 107% average for all Seattle neighborhoods combined.

 

Seattle Recap

Click here for the full report and neighborhood-by-neighborhood statistics!

Seattle Report

 

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EASTSIDE

The Eastside’s Median Sale Price was $1,300,000 in Q1, up 31% over Q1 2020 ($989,950). Movement of companies and households to the Eastside and the extreme lack of a supply of homes for sale were the biggest contributors to this increase. South of I-90 (+39%) saw the largest gains, while the higher-priced markets of Kirkland (+16%), Mercer Island (+17%), and West Bellevue (+22%) had the smallest year-over-year increases—although being well into the double-digits, they could hardly be considered small.

 

85% of all Eastside homes, and 59% of homes priced above one million dollars, sold for at or above their list price. With 71% fewer homes for sale than in Q1 2020, the entire Eastside market remained ultra-competitive. East Bellevue sales topped the charts with an average sale price of 112% above list price for sales occurring in the first 10 days on the market.

 

The Eastside market saw Months of Inventory (the number of months it would take to sell all homes currently for sale) remain at historical lows of between .3 and .6 months. Despite the limited supply of homes for sale, there was a 25% increase in the number of Eastside homes sold in Q1 (1,413) compared to Q1 2020 (1,133)—much of which can be attributed to emerging COVID concerns in 2020 and in-migration to the Eastside.

 

Eastside Recap

Click here for the full report and neighborhood-by-neighborhood statistics!

Eastside Report

 

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MERCER ISLAND

Most notable on the Island was the continued lack of affordable housing options with no sales below $1 million, and only 10 sales below $1.5 million, in Q1. High end sales dominated the market with 30 of the Island’s 64 sales of homes priced $2 million and above. Mercer Island waterfront listings remained depleted with an average of 2 waterfront homes for sale at any given time and a mere 3 sales in all of Q1.

 

Q1 saw an average of only 17 homes available for sale—an unbelievable low for a typically burgeoning Q1 on the Island. This has led to a continued ultra-competitive market for the most desirable homes, especially those offering one-level living, a main floor owner’s suite or prime waterfront.

 

A staggering 81% of all homes sold at or above their listed price and those that sold in the first 10 days (75% of all sales) closed for an average of 110% of their listed price. That increase equated to sellers receiving an average of nearly $200,000 above their listed price at Island’s median sale price.

 

Mercer Island Recap

Click here for the full report and neighborhood-by-neighborhood statistics!

Mercer Island Report

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CONDOS – SEATTLE & EASTSIDE

Condos have remained an attractive and more affordable option for entry-level buyers who might otherwise rent. As single-family home markets become more competitive, condo ownership becomes a more compelling—and many times the only—option for those wishing to begin their homeownership journey.

 

While the number of single-family homes for sale has been on the decline regionally, Seattle condos experienced a 45% increase in the number of units for sale while Eastside condos saw 23% fewer units for sale compared to Q1 2020. Both Seattle (+18%) and the Eastside (+30%) saw an increase in the number of Q1 sales.

 

Seattle condos saw a 3% increase (to $476,000) and Eastside condos saw a 9% increase (to $535,000) in Median Sale Price compared to Q1 2020. Fueled by new construction townhome development, South Seattle posted a 56% increase in its Median Sale Price during that same period. On the Eastside, with townhomes providing a solid alternative to lacking single-family homes, Sammamish was a standout with a 16% increase over Q1 2020

 

51% of Seattle condos and 70% of Eastside condos sold at or above their listed price. Those that were sold in the first 10 days (35% of Seattle and 55% of Eastside sales) sold for an average of 103% of their listed price.

 

Check out area-by-area details the full condo report.

 

Condo Report

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WATERFRONT

With a meager combined average of only 7 homes for sale (compared to 26 in Q1 2020) Mercer Island and Eastside waterfront headlines could only read that there was nearly nothing available for sale in Q1. The Seattle market was just above typical inventory levels (with an average of 12 homes for sale compared to 10 in Q1 2020) while Lake Sammamish maintained its two-year running low of 5 homes for sale.

 

While many waterfront homes went under contract in mere days, they did not see the dramatic price escalations in Q1 that the more affordable, non-waterfront market has experienced. In fact, only one sale closed at (a fraction of 1%) above its listed price. While 4 of the 14 Q1 sales closed at 100% of their listed price, a fair amount of price negotiation was far more common.

 

This top-level overview of the entire Seattle-Eastside private waterfront market, including Mercer Island and Lake Sammamish, provides a glance into the trends occurring in our region over time. It is interesting, and insightful, but in no way replaces an in-depth analysis on waterfront value provided by a savvy broker with years of local waterfront experience.

 

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We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.

© Copyright 2021, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island. Information and statistics derived from Northwest Multiple Listing Service and deemed accurate but not guaranteed.

Home Buyer Tips March 2, 2021

Should I Be a Homebuyer in this Market?

Fourteen offers, all contingencies waived, earnest money deposit released to seller on offer acceptance. This is the norm rather than the exception in our current market. Sound crazy? It is! And we’ve been here before. Today’s buyers are likely paying considerably above market values to “win” the war and snag a house that they can live with for the foreseeable future. So long as prices keep increasing and demand is insatiable, that gamble might pay off nicely.

But eventually, something has to give. We know this because market cycles are inevitable. They keep our economy healthy and in check. If for example, mortgage interest rates increase too quickly, home prices become too unaffordable, or local or national events significantly impact consumer confidence, the market can turn on a dime. When it does, someone always gets left holding the bag (or an unsaleable house) as the market shifts from a seller’s market to a buyer’s market.

You might be wondering why a real estate company is suggesting you think twice before making the plunge. The truth is, we’re in it for the long haul and we know informed buyers are the best buyers. If you are a home seller wondering if we just showed your cards, fear not—having an informed buyer who has done their homework means they’re more likely to follow through to closing (and less likely to seek retribution from you later because of unknown or undisclosed defects). Read on!

 

FIRST THINGS FIRST

You know yourself and your situation better than anyone else. You need to be financially comfortable with the monthly payment, down payment, and ongoing costs of home ownership (see Should I Rent or Buy a Home?).

You will also want to consider whether an unexpected relocation could be in your near future. Do you feel secure in your employment situation? Knowing you could comfortably stay put and ride out the storm of any downturn in the market protects you considerably compared to being in a must-sell predicament. If you feel unsure about your financial position or might be required to relocate in the next couple of years, now might not be the right time for you to buy.

Your broker will be able to recommend prominent local lenders, inspectors, and other necessary vendors. Do your homework to select the right lender for you and make formal loan application with them to obtain underwriting approval. Beyond just pre-approval, underwriting approval assures you that your loan will go through (unless your employment situation changes or there is an issue with the house itself). This is well worth the time and effort to accomplish. While you’re at it, research potential inspectors to determine who you think will do the best job and what their options for completing an inspection within a tight timeline are.

If cash offers or those with waived financing contingencies are commonplace in the area you are searching, explore alternatives for funding your purchase. In addition to getting pre-underwritten, can you temporarily borrow funds from a 401k, investment account, or line of credit to allow you to better compete with cash? Do you have other interim options that would allow you to get in the door and obtain a purchase mortgage loan post-purchase? There are many nuances to making this work, but it might just be worth investigating if it is right for you.

Consider your risk tolerance level. This is something only you can determine, and everyone will have a different baseline. If you’ve checked off the items suggested above and decided you are financially and emotionally ready to get in the ring, how do you protect yourself when buying a home in an extreme seller’s market? Read on for things you can do to put yourself in the best possible position when buying a home—even in an ultra-competitive market. In this article, we will focus on critical aspects of the home itself and the home-specific research you should do before submitting an offer.

 

ASPECTS TO CONSIDER BEFORE YOU GET INTERESTED

Here are four attributes, beyond the number of bedrooms and baths, that you should have your eye on. Many buyers overlook undesirable aspects of a home when there are few choices, however “Grade A” properties will have the highest resale potential even in a future buyer’s market.

Home (building) quality: Well-built homes with “good bones” will outlast mediocre quality homes (and their components and systems) any day of the week. Determining quality is somewhat subjective. You will notice it in well-designed details, cabinetry and components that stand out from the competition. If the home has had renovations, do they match or exceed the quality of the original structure? Granted, affordability will impact quality, but it is critical to size up any home you are considering so that you’re comparing apples to apples. You don’t pay the latest iPhone price for a no name brand phone, and the same applies here. If you purchase a fair quality home at the going rate of higher quality homes, you are likely overpaying.

Immediate to-dos and deferred maintenance: Different than quality, a home’s upkeep requirements include the to-do list of items that need to be done to maintain its integrity. A home that has been well maintained over its life typically is a better investment than one that hasn’t. The true cost of deferred maintenance often adds up to more than the cost of the repairs themselves. Don’t forget to factor in the reduced life span of other components—like replacement of damaged wood beneath peeling paint or mold remediation in a damp basement caused by a clogged foundation drain. Also consider that if you know the furnace, roof, and exterior haven’t been properly maintained, what else also hasn’t been maintained that you don’t know about? Be careful to look past any “fluff” that may have been quickly done to prep the home for sale. See the Home-Specific Due Diligence below on how you can assess this before writing your offer. This article on Assessing the Real Cost of a Fixer is also a great resource.

Setting: The saying “location, location, location” didn’t get its fame from nowhere. A home with an ideal setting on its lot and in the neighborhood—away from busy roads and utility poles/boxes, with adequate privacy, good topography, best positioned to capture views if available, and not adjacent to undesirable elements—will have more value than a less-ideally situated home. Builders do this with lot premiums in new developments. When deciding what to pay for a property it is critical that you evaluate these aspects and any others relevant to a specific neighborhood to determine the +/- effect on value as compared to other recent sales.

Floor plan: How a home lives—flow from room to room, size of rooms, open/closed-off spaces, and below ground vs. above ground living—are every bit as important as the total home square footage. You can change a lot of things about a home, but it is more difficult to change a bad floor plan. Ensure that the floor plan is one that will work for you for the foreseeable future. That might mean more available bedrooms than you currently need, the structural ability to easily expand, or one-level living to allow you to age in place. When you are deciding a home’s potential value, consider the future relevancy of the floor plan for your lifestyle.

 

HOME-SPECIFIC RESEARCH

A great home hits the market and buyers are already lined up make an offer. It looks like an “A” property or something close. The clock is ticking, and you don’t want to lose out (again). Rather than getting caught up in the frenzy, take a deep breath, keep your wits about you and get to work. There is so much intel you and your broker can gather to ensure that the home you are considering won’t turn into your worst nightmare. Time is of the essence, so this is something you will want to do expeditiously.

Property photos and info: Of course, everyone looks at the home photos as soon as a new listing hits the market. Consider pulling them up on a big display and looking closely at things like room flow; condition of windows, floors, and major components like the roof and exterior; floor plan; proximity of neighboring properties; sun exposure; and topography. There is so much you can see when you are specifically looking for it. Don’t forget to check the description for key requirements that you can’t live without. Closer scrutiny of the info available before you go further will help you avoid wasted time.

Online research: Check out online maps of the street, neighborhood, and surrounds. Are there major roads or freeways, high voltage power lines, adverse topography, or other concerns that might affect your decision? Are there parks or other amenities that make this home more compelling? Is it located in an area with good cell coverage and high-speed internet? Even in our tech-oriented world, you’d be surprised how many pockets of inadequate coverage exist in our region. You can research this info, public records, and more using the Research tab on our website. This is a great first step in researching a home before you even jump in your car.

Property history: A simple search of the home address will bring up the listing and sale history on broker search websites. Your buyer broker can also access detailed listing, sale, and transfer history going back two decades or more. Use this information to better understand the property’s past. Was it recently sold as a fixer? Previously a foreclosure? Is it a flip? Those don’t necessarily eliminate a property, but they do add the need for another level of scrutiny. Do the previous photos or descriptions indicate non-permitted remodeling or otherwise warrant concern? What recent listings and sales have occurred in the vicinity? Do they support this home’s value? This will help you get a better picture of any home you are considering.

Seller disclosures and seller-procured inspections: With few exceptions, home sellers have had to disclose known defects and issues for more than three decades now via a Real Property Transfer Disclosure Statement aka Form 17. This document is typically uploaded to the listing and accessible to your buyer broker. Like everything you have done to this point, a close review of this disclosure lets you know more about this home. See Seller Property Disclosure: What You Need to Know Before You Buy.

Given the many components that make up a structure, every home will have some disclosed issues. If there are none, that should be a red flag itself. If the seller hired an inspector to conduct a pre-inspection, it will be noted in the disclosure and the inspection should be made available for your review. You are looking for a better understanding of past issues, resolutions, current issues, and ongoing concerns that might require further research.

Visiting the home: You’ve done your homework, and everything looks good so far. Take a drive by the home and neighborhood while you are waiting for your showing appointment to visit the home in person. While you are in the home, assuming it checks your boxes and you want to move forward, take a few minutes to take closer notice of typical problem areas. Here is a great guide on How to Spot Big Issues Before You Pay for a Home Inspection.

Buyer pre-inspections: A home inspection offers invaluable information on not only the current condition, but also on ongoing maintenance needs and items to be mindful of so they don’t become a bigger problem later. Unlike waiving most other contingencies in a purchase offer, where the worst that could happen is you lose your earnest money deposit, buying a home without an inspection could cost you tens or hundreds of thousands in unexpected repairs after closing. Here is a great home buyer book written by a local home inspector: The Confident House Hunter: A Home Inspector’s Tips for Finding Your Perfect House.

Let’s be honest, pre-inspections are hard to get scheduled right now. Sellers and listing brokers are just trying to get everyone in the door to see the home and blocking out a big chunk of time for a pre-inspection is often a challenge. With a little planning and coordination, here are some potential solutions to this challenge if scheduling an inspection during normal hours is not possible: see if the seller will allow a two-hour inspection at 7 am before the day’s showings; ask about conducting an inspection during a time when someone else is already inspecting (assuming all parties can properly distance and are okay with this); if all else fails, ask your inspector if they would consider reviewing any seller pre-inspection to help you assess its completeness.

In a less competitive environment, you might be able to simply include an inspection contingency with your offer. Also, don’t forget about wells and septic tanks. They’re kind of essential to you actually living in the home and having a non-performing well of a failed septic system is a bigger dilemma than you might imagine.

 

FINAL THOUGHTS

You’ve done what you need to do to investigate the property as thoroughly as possible and you want to proceed. Now is the time to determine if this is a “have to have” or “nice to have” home based on others that you’ve seen and strategize your offer accordingly. You might decide to waive typical contingencies and release all or part of your earnest money to the seller to make your offer more competitive. While there is no doubt a degree of risk in doing this, if you’ve done your due diligence ahead of time, this can be a compelling approach that doesn’t cost you any more at the closing table.

Of course, it is essential to have a competent real estate broker who can help you navigate these waters, determine the value (as compared to similar properties), history (permits, prior sales, etc.), and activity (other offers, pre-inspections, expressions of interest) of potential properties you are interested in. This helps you go in armed with the information to make sound decisions with a clear offer strategy that will help you win far more effectively than the typical guesswork that goes in too many offers written without this guidance.

Working with a reputable broker also makes for a more reputable offer. Any seller is looking for the assurance that their sale will close on time and as agreed. Most sellers feel more comfortable accepting an offer when there is good communication, a solid realtor, and a knowledgeable buyer behind it.

Lastly, be prepared for the adventure. There will be joy, surprise, heartbreak, anger, frustration, and bliss along the way. If you go in knowing it will be a challenge, you’ll be much better prepared for the market we are currently faced with.

Still have questions? Contact one of our knowledgeable brokers for assistance with how to purchase, sell, or determine the value of any property you are considering.


Find a Home | Sell Your Home | Property Research | Neighborhoods | Market Reports | Our Team

We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.

© Copyright 2021 Windermere Mercer Island.

Home Seller Tips December 18, 2020

The Downside of Selling Your Home Off Market

Who wouldn’t want the enticement of a full price offer on their home before it even comes to market? At first glance it seems like a compelling opportunity, but it comes at a steep price.

With the shortage of homes today, friends and neighbors are all on the lookout for up-and-coming listings. They aren’t hard to spot amongst the buzz of spruce up activity that often occurs as a home is being prepped for the market. Often the buyer or their broker contact the seller or their broker to request an early showing and you can guess what transpires from there. You and your broker have a list price in mind and the buyer’s offer comes in at that price. What could be better?

Are you leaving money on the table?

For starters, consider that homes in the Seattle-Eastside region are typically selling well above their asking prices. Local market data shows most homes bring in 3-8% above their listed prices during the last several months. This occurs when multiple buyers are competing for the same property…something that doesn’t happen when negotiating off market with a single buyer. Consider a home at Seattle’s median price of $800,000, 3-8% equates to $24,000-$64,000 left on the table.

But that isn’t all there is to consider. In our current highly competitive market, it isn’t unusual for buyers to waive contingencies such as financing and appraisal, pre-inspect or waive the inspection contingency, and often even release their earnest money as non-refundable. This does not often happen in a non-competing situation and leaves you vulnerable to transaction challenges before closing.

In addition, it is often the buyers who can’t effectively compete in an open market that are most motivated to try to get you to sell off market. This benefits the buyer significantly, but eliminates the benefits to you of a strong seller-favored market.

 

What about iBuyer company offers?

iBuyers are companies that agree to pay a set amount for your home up front and then list it for sale after you move out. They have gained popularity in some markets-Phoenix and Atlanta especially. In 2019, they had 59,000 transactions nationwide or about half of one percent market share of the 5.38 million transactions last year. Amidst COVID and economic concerns, iBuyer market share was down dramatically in 2020 and remains uncertain for 2021.

Nationally, their sweet spot has been predictable subdivision homes priced around $250,000. They have traditionally avoided higher priced markets due to the added risk in pricing. And they have historically avoided Washington State because of our real property transfer tax that adds ~2% to the cost of sale.

While selling to an iBuyer might seem easy and intriguing, it helps to remember these companies are in business to make a profit at your expense. iBuyers charge a 6-10% service fee in addition to factoring in the cost of needed repairs or updates (data shows an average of 2-5% of the sale price). Atypical expenses, like our state’s 2% transfer tax, are also calculated into the net. Add it all up and it is a hefty price to pay for the convenience of not having to go through the sale process.

On other thing to note is that iBuyers also profit by selling the names of homeowners who contact them for a bid, but do not accept that bid (93-98% of inquiries, depending on the company), to real estate agents without an established client base who are willing to pay for leads. These are typically not the most successful real estate brokers in a given marketplace. Not only do sellers who use these brokers often lose out on the benefits of working with a knowledgeable and established Realtor, that broker’s marketing budget is consumed largely by paying for leads instead of prominently marketing your home.

 

Final thoughts

It’s so easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of an off-market offer. And it’s flattering to feel like your home is so appealing that people are knocking on your door before it even debuts. For some, the privacy of an off-market sale offsets the considerable dollars left on the table. But for most of us, those dollars matter. And having multiple interested buyers instead of just one means better terms and more certainty as you head towards the closing table.

Still have questions? Contact one of our knowledgeable brokers for assistance with how to purchase, sell, or determine the value of any property you are considering.

 


Find a Home | Sell Your Home | Property Research | Neighborhoods | Market Reports | Our Team

We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.

© Copyright 2020 Windermere Mercer Island.

Waterfront December 11, 2020

Waterfront Defined

Terminology

These local definitions will not only to help you know the lingo when it comes to waterfront speak, but to give you quick access tools to research waterfront to your heart’s content. Here is a quick resource to commonly used terms related to waterfront real property:

 

Bluff    Most beaches on Puget Sound are backed by bluffs. These bluffs can vary from spectacular, high eroding cliffs to low, vegetated banks. The erosion of bluffs is a significant source of sediment on many Puget Sound beaches. One way of classifying bluffs is by the amount of sediment they provide to local beaches as they erode. This is based on how fast they erode, how high they are, and how much sand and gravel they contain. In these maps, bluffs are assigned to the following categories: Exceptional Feeder Bluffs; Feeder Bluffs; Feeder Bluff – talus; and Transport Zones. This Department of Ecology Feeder Bluffs and Coastal Landforms Map is a great tool for identifying bluff categories.

Boathouse   A building designed for the storage of boats or watercraft to provide protection from the elements. The building of boathouses is generally prohibited under current environment regulations, but many grandfathered boathouses remain throughout the region.

Bulkhead   A solid or open pile wall of rock, concrete, steel or timber or other materials or a combination of these materials erected generally parallel to and near the ordinary high water mark for the purpose of protecting adjacent wetlands and uplands from waves or currents.

Dock   A raised walkway over water, often supported by widely spread pilings or pillars. Recent dock requirements encourage the use of decking structures and systems that encourage light and air flow to the water below. Also referred to as a pier.

Dock inspection   A structural and functional evaluation by an individual or company who specializes in dock construction and repair. This can involve an underwater dive evaluation when portions of the supporting structure is in question or unobservable from above.

High bank waterfront    Land that sits substantially above the natural water line, making the waterfront inaccessible without stairs or other structures, if at all.

Low bank waterfront   Land that sits just above the natural water line, often delineated with a bulkhead protecting the shoreline. Low and no bank waterfront abutting a navigable lake is often considered the most desirable waterfront in the Puget Sound region.

Medium bank waterfront   The most subjective of terms, this represents moderate bank land that is lower than high bank and higher than low bank waterfront.

Moorage    A place where a boat or ship are secured in the water. As it pertains to waterfront real estate, this is typically on a privately owned dock or boathouse.

Navigable water   “Navigability or navigable” means that a body of water is capable or susceptible of having been or being used for the transport of useful commerce. The state of Washington considers all bodies of water meandered by government surveyors as navigable unless otherwise declared by a court. See Who Owns the Water?

No bank waterfront   Land that graduates out to the natural water line without a bulkhead separating it from the shoreline. Often described as rolling waterfront, its spacious feel at lakeside is highly desirable.

Ordinary High Water    “Ordinary high water” means, for the purpose of asserting state ownership, the line of permanent upland vegetation along the shores of nontidal navigable waters. In the absence of vegetation, it is the line of mean high water.

Pier   A raised walkway over water, often supported by widely spread pilings or pillars. Recent dock requirements encourage the use of decking structures and systems that encourage light and air flow to the water below. Also referred to as a dock.

Private Waterfront    Land abutting the water owned exclusively by an individual land parcel. Greater waterfront footage and amenities (beach/dock/moorage) create a more valuable parcel than one with limited waterfront footage or amenities.

Shared Waterfront    Land abutting the water owned in common (deeded) by owners of other often adjoining, land parcels. Fewer owner shares and deeded amenities (dock access/moorage) create a more valuable shared waterfront parcel than one with many owners or fewer amenities.

Shorelands    Land which is alternately covered and left dry by the rising and falling of the water level of a lake, river, or tidal area.

“First class shorelands” means the shores of a navigable lake or river belonging to the state not subject to tidal flow, lying between the line of ordinary high water and the line of navigability, or the inner harbor line where established and within or in front of the corporate limits of any city, or within two miles thereof upon either side (RCW 79.105.060(3)). These boundary descriptions represent the general rule; however exceptions do exist. To determine if the shorelands are within two miles of the corporate limits of a city, the distance is measured along the shoreline from the intersection of the corporate limit with the shoreline.

“Second class shorelands” means the shores of a navigable lake or river belonging to the state, not subject to tidal flow, lying between the line of ordinary high water and the line of navigability, and more than two miles from the corporate limits of any city (RCW 79.105.060(17)). These boundary definitions represent the general rule; however, exceptions do exist. To determine if shorelands are more than two miles from the corporate limits of a city, the distance is measured along the shoreline from the intersection of the corporate limit with the shoreline.

(Public) Tidelands   Land belonging to and held in public trust by the state for the citizens of the state, which are not devoted to or reserved for a particular use by law. Typically, the portion of land below the ordinary high water mark and the navigable water. Tide lines have been an area of great controversy in Washington State. Considered public domain through the Public Trust Doctrine. The Public Trust Doctrine does not allow the public to trespass over privately-owned uplands to access the tidelands. It does, however, protect public use of navigable water bodies below the ordinary high water mark.

“First class tidelands” means the shores of navigable tidal waters belonging to the state lying within or in front of the corporate limits of any city, or within one mile thereof upon either side and between the line of ordinary high tide and the inner harbor line; and within two miles of the corporate limits on either side and between the line of ordinary high tide and the line of extreme low tide (RCW 79.105.060(4)). In general, the line of ordinary high tide is the landward boundary. The line of extreme low tide, or the inner harbor line where established, is the waterward boundary. To determine if the tidelands are within two miles of the corporate limits of a city, the distance is measured along the shoreline from the intersection of the corporate limit with the shoreline.

“Second class tidelands” means the shores of navigable tidal waters belonging to the state, lying outside of and more than two miles from the corporate limits of any city and between the line of ordinary high tide and the line of extreme low tide (RCW 79.105.060(18)). In general, the line of ordinary high tide is the landward boundary. The line of extreme low tide is the waterward boundary. To determine if the tidelands are more than two miles from the corporate limits of a city, the distance is measured along the shoreline from the intersection of the corporate limit with the shoreline. Excerpt from the Department of Ecology Public Trust Doctrine.

Waterfront Footage   The linear feet that span the water’s edge of a land parcel.

Watershed   A watershed is the land area draining to a nearby river or lake, or sound.

Maps

There are many local map portals to assist in identifying topography, water conditions, hazards, and critical areas.

King County iMap

iMap Parcel Lookup Instructions (PDF)

Washington DNR Natural Hazards Geological Maps

Washington Geographic Information Portal Map

Department of Ecology Feeder Bluffs and Coastal Landforms Map

Department of Ecology Wetlands Inventory Map

NOAA Puget Sound Water Depth Chart

 

Resources

King County   

King County currently has about 1200 documented residential docks and 58 private boat ramps (see shoreline land use facts). A permit is required to build, modify, alter the land abutting a shoreline.

King County Shoreline Management Fact Sheets and Links

King County Shoreline Permit Submittal Requirements (PDF)

King County Bulkhead Shoreline Requirements (PDF)  

Shoreline Site Plan Requirements (PDF)

King County Shoreline Property Owner Resources

King County Lake Services and Information

Puget Sound Shoreline Stewardship Guidebook

King County Water and Shorelines Glossary

 

Washington State

Washington State (RCW) Aquatic Land legal definitions

DFW – Your Marine Waterfront (PDF)

DNR – Puget Sound and Coastal Geology

DNR – Puget Lowland Geological Province

Dept of Ecology – Mapping Bluffs and Beaches of Puget Sound (PDF)

WSU Guide for Shoreline Living (PDF)

UW Puget Sound Fact Book (PDF)

 

Environmental Protection Agency

EPA – Puget Sound

Shoreline and Wetland Tools and Resources

King County watershed overview map

Cedar River – Lake Washington Watershed (Lake Washington waterfront properties)

Central Puget Sound Watershed (North/West Seattle waterfront on Puget Sound)

Green-Duwamish River Watershed (South Seattle waterfront properties on Puget Sound)

Sammamish Watershed (Lake Sammamish waterfront properties)

 

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NOAA Portal

ERMA visualization map of Puget Sound

Bluffs, landforms and habitat classifications

 

The Watershed Company (site evaluation contractor) Articles

A home buyer’s guide to property with critical areas

Shoreline planning and permitting

Enhance your shoreline

 

We hope this provides an outstanding starting point in your waterfront journey. In addition to this specific research, don’t forget to evaluate all the typical aspects of your potential new home and neighborhood. We’ve compiled links to research tools from schools and geological hazards to market reports and census data.

While you’re there, you can also look up neighborhood info, including crime reporting, local government resources, parks and recreation, and school boundaries.

Of course, nothing tops having an experienced broker to guide you through the process. They’ve seen hundreds upon hundreds of homes and can help you identify the solid finds from the duds with gorgeous looking veneer.

Choosing the right broker can save you thousands on your home purchase. Whether through local market knowledge and pricing analysis allowing you to make a smarter offer, recommendations and resources to thoroughly conduct your due diligence and avoid costly mistakes, or savvy contract negotiation to help you get the terms you need, having a Windermere broker on your side is one advantage you can’t afford to sacrifice.

 


Find a Home | Sell Your Home | Property Research | Neighborhoods | Market Reports | Our Team

We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.

© Copyright 2020 Windermere Mercer Island.

Home Buyer Tips August 3, 2020

Interest Rates Make a BIG Difference When You Buy…

You probably know that interest rates affect your monthly mortgage payments, but most of us aren’t aware of just how big an impact they really have on a home loan.  Each 1% change in interest rate equates to roughly a 10% change in buying power.  This means you can qualify for a much more expensive home when rates are low, whereas higher rates mean you qualify for less home—even though you still pay the same monthly payment.

 

This first chart shows how much house you can buy for a set monthly payment. If you have $4,000 a month to budget for a house payment (before taxes and insurance), you could purchase a $949,000 house at today’s historically low 3% mortgage rate. If rates went up to 4%, the same monthly payment would only get you an $838,000 home. Your buying power diminishes considerably with each bump up in rates.

 

What you can afford based on the current interest rate..

 

Scrolling down, this second chart shows how interest rates impact monthly payments.  If you’re purchasing a $950,000 house at today’s 3% interest rate, you’ll be paying $530 less every month than if you’d bought that same house when rates were 4%.  That adds up quick…$6,360 in one year alone!  This explains why so many renters are eagerly looking to buy right now, and why homeowners are refinancing at record rates.

 

Your monthly payment based on the current interest rate

 

Want to know how you can best take advantage of these historical low mortgage rates?  Reach out to us for help evaluating whether it would make financial sense to refinance, buy, or sell while rates are low.  We are always happy to be a resource!

 


Find a Home | Sell Your Home | Property Research | Neighborhoods | Market Reports | Our Team

We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.

© Copyright 2020 Windermere Mercer Island.