bloggingseattle

The gazebo that almost killed me

2007-06-03T19:53:00.000-07:00

i just sat down from an all day, grueling workout on my back patio, 12 hours to put together a gazebo. Will some body please come and kill me now? The instructions said all you need is 2 hours, a ladder and a Phillips screwdriver. What were they smoking? I start at 8 this morning, by 10 the sun, yes the sun in Seattle, is baking on the East side of the house where the patio (ex-carport) is and whatever possessed me to bare my fat cells, dab some 8 sunscreen on and think I would be good for the day?? I think as I get older I get more foolish. My skin hasn't seen sun for at least 3 years. Long story short, the instructions while in English, are written in a certain perspective from a different land, and it may have lost something in the translation or maybe it is just me. There was NO panel F to insert and join with Panel G. I made it half way thru before the power screw driver abso-efin-lutely failed and I had to make the dreaded drive, exhausted and scorched to Home Depot for the replacement. I return an hour later, the temp is over 85 in the shade and at least 100 where I am destined to spend the last day of life. I begin again. The framing and roof frame is up by 4. I'm burnt to a crisp, luckily, I gained some sense and never took the shirt off after the Home depot trip. Now more up and down the ladder tightening nuts and bolts, with shaky old man legs, tight spaces whereby NO power driver will work, where they must not have 3/8" wrenches, sockets, nuts and bolts because it was a bit off, so for me it looks like the 'Idiot Wrench' (Crescent wrench is the true term, however my beloved deceased father in law had the appropriate name for it) is the only method. The tightening complete, now time for the canvas, nylon, whatever it is roof. I'm on the death ladder again. been at it for 10 hours now, I'm ready to die (Please Lord, take me now and with quickness and as little pain as possible) as the pain in the feet, ankles, knees and back are causing me to think heroin is the only answer. Now, as I said the instructions are unique. I throw the top portion up, try to stretch over the 4 corners and 'RRRIIIIPPPP" the last corner says hell no not that way you don't. WTH? Was I supposed to put the tarp top piece on first, then finish the assembly 12 feet up in the air? I will sum it up by saying, after sitting in a chair, burnt to hell, in extreme pain, thinking all is lost, I say to myself, what would father in-law do? Well, I improvised, with 12/2 electrical wire, a small stone and voila after 12 hours for a "2 hour assembly" it is done. I hope I die before morning.

Stan’s photo gallery of today’s death trap

Raising kids in Seattle

2007-06-02T09:51:00.000-07:00

I ran into a good friend and past client yesterday and as we catch up on things, Dave tells me about his youngest of 4 children, nicknamed ‘Tonga’, I seem to recall. The story goes that this child, though not even 2 years of age is almost 40 pounds and is very adventurous (I think devious was the word), and has to be watched constantly. He climbs out of his crib and roams where he wants and will leave the house if not caught before hand. Childproof locks you might ask? Well, this is the funniest part. Dave says, yeah we have ‘em, however they don’t stop this child. He sneaks to the pantry door, takes his fist and BAMM slams it against the plastic knob surround breaking it off, carefully opens the door so as not to be heard, then scales the wire shelving to the top shelf where the prize goodies are kept, finds what he wants and drops it to the floor, creeps stealthily down to his prey, opens and starts to eat, when suddenly the door opens and there’s dad standing there looking down at him, at which time he gestures out to dad, offering up his prized possessions and says…’for you?’. At this point as I listen to this story of a not yet 2 year old, tears streaming down my face as I can’t contain my hysteria, I feel very grateful that I know longer have to raise young ones. I can’t wait to hear more ‘Tonga’ stories as this one continues on his journey towards becoming an NFL Hall of Fame defensive end. Thanks Dave for the belly laugh!

Safeco Insurance...Am I accepted back?

2007-05-30T20:31:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, what kind of a blogger goes away for a month at a time? Well, I guess my true colors are coming out. I sell real estate, try to maintain a family, etc. and blogging will have to take a back seat. What the hell has been going on Stan to keep you from the keyboard? I’ll tell you. No real estate talk here, even though extremely busy with that, as that will be saved for a different blogging moment. Referring back to my Safeco post whereby the bastard (oops,excuse me, see post from last month, I don't know what came over me...I don’t want to be too strong and offend anyone) the ‘bad poopers’, decided to cancel and not renew because of the ‘hazardous fascia paint’, I finally hope I have resolve. The handrail has been built, the ‘exposed wood’ covered patio has been removed and hauled away and the dreaded ‘hazardous’ fascia paint has been repainted. I might add also had the whole South side of the home has had the siding replaced, (by the best contractor I currently know of, happy to refer, just call), the garage door replaced and the whole, entire home repainted. Safeco, I hope you happy…it @#%$$^&)* cost me 3 times what it costs you for the claim that you paid for my loss. But hell, we should be good friends now eh?

Showing Seattle Real Estate can be interesting

2007-04-24T09:47:00.000-07:00

Sunday I get a call on a new listing of mine,

The Virtual Tour

we’ll call him Iggy (not really his name but very close to it). He speaks in a very gruff, (though English, sounds very German) foreign accent. He wants to see it. Do you have a personal realtor, I ask? (Normal protocol, as his realtor has access thru a key box) No. When can I show it to him? We set up the next day at 3:30 as the seller has two large dogs and gets home at 3PM and can take the mutts for a walk (they can be larger than life and a bit intimidating). Great. I leave the office at 3PM and head for the meeting with Iggy and his wife. At 3:29 the phone rings. Seller is almost a panic, gets home, the mutts have left a surprise in the bonus room where they were held captive all day, she has cleaned it up the best she can, ‘sorry for any smell, the windows are open, I hope it is not too bad.’ I arrive. Visiting car in drive, NO Iggy is visible. I walk around back (private acre lot) looking for the elusive Iggster. Success, there they are, a graying slightly bearded stocky gentleman peering in the back kitchen window and his dark haired wife (we will call her Emily). We intro and head back to the front door. Almost immediately the complaints start erupting from the mouth of the Igg man. ‘The den’s too small, the windows too high to clean, the living room looks like a family room, a septic system, no sewer??' What, can you get an acre without it? I say. ‘And where the hell do you put the plates?’ He asks. A brand new $100k kitchen and we start searching through the drawers and cupboards looking for the #%@#%@& plates. We haven’t even hit the upstairs yet where we will encounter the dog gifted bonus room. I can’t wait. ‘The master is too small, what no tub?, what is that softening in the hall flooring (WTH, it feels plush from high end carpeting and pad to me), and who would need a large room like this?’ Yep, the bonus room. Much to my surprise, the odor from the mutts is barely noticeable, whew. Well needless to say, as well finish the tour downstairs, The Iggster says he will have to think about it as he doesn’t make rash, quick decisions.’ Surprise, surprise, how shocking for me. Too bad too, as his wife was a delight, very positive, and seemed to really like the place. Just another day in the life of a NW realtor.

Safeco Insurance...Homeowners Beware!

2007-03-06T18:42:00.000-08:00

Safeco Insurance has been my home liability insurance company for many, many years. Recently, I suffered a ‘break-in’ loss of a laptop computer in which I filed a claim and since it was covered, they paid for the stolen laptop. So…what’s the problem you ask? I’ll share with you the remainder of the story. A short few months after the incident, Safeco informs me: "After careful consideration, we have concluded that we will not be able to renew your homeowners policy." and why not, you may ask?
"While we regret this decision, we feel it necessary for the following reason: There is substantial increased hazard associated with the lack of maintenance of this dwelling."
1) “the facia has chipped, pealing and worn paint” (increased hazard???)
2) “the patio cover has exposed wood that is not protected from the weather” (again increased hazard?)
3) “the front steps lack a railing” (hello...it has been this way since 1940...1 step from porch to sidewalk and NO rail..."increased hazard"?)

OMG…with these disastrous home deficiencies producing such an "increased hazard", I can’t believe they could have taken my tens of thousands of dollars for all these past years and insured me anyway. The real reason for the cancellation (though not specifically stated by the agent, the truth was reluctantly acknowledged) and what really ticks me off, is the fact that they are looking for any reasons to cancel as they've ‘paid a claim’ and it shows ‘a loss’. To make matters worse, they make it almost impossible for me to get insurance with another company as they have posted for the insurance world to see that a claim was made. Guess what? NO insurance for me. My auto insurance agent has tried to no avail. Nope, have to wait a year after the claim. What in the world do we have insurance for anyway? If they choose to cancel you and make it impossible for you to be insured once you file a needed claim.

The photo above, while not my home, shows the ‘2 deadly steps’ that it takes to get in my front door. Hey guys, it's a 1940's bungalow and guess what? I went up and down my street and NO ONE with a two-step entry (and there are at least 30 two step entry homes on my street) have a rail. The facia, I will paint, of course our weather is not conducive to painting in the winter and spring months. The covered patio, a few fiberglass panels went in a storm, will have to be dealt with as well.

I have 3 weeks to get the items taken care of to their satisfaction and perhaps they will 'review' and possibly reverse their decision (although they have not stated as such). In the meantime, shame on you Safeco Insurance Company of America…your business practices are abhorrent!

Sell investment property...pay NO taxes? Is a 1031 Tax Exchange for you?

2007-03-01T19:35:00.000-08:00

When Mrs. Smith called me today, and after about an hour on the phone, I thought maybe this was a good topic for the blog. She’s owned a property in CA (valued at around $700,000) that she has rented for many years and feels it is time to sell. Of course, paying a high tax bill on the $600,000 that is left after paying off the mortgage owed is not a desire. So the discussion revolved around doing what is known as a “1031 Tax Exchange”. As we discussed further it was determined that what she wants to do will probably work. That is, take the 600k and purchase 2 properties with the cash and rent both. Now the tricky part…she wants to close the sale in a month and she hasn’t really started on the process of finding the 2 to buy. She also mentioned that she feels she can handle all the exchange ‘stuff’ herself. Now, I’m no expert, however the following is what I shared with her from my limited knowledge.
• Must use a 1031 tax exchange facilitator, that handles the closing and receives the funds from the sale (deposits the $$ into a trust fund to await the close of the 2 purchases). If the seller gets the money deposited in their bank, the exchange is void and guess what? The tax man gets his.
• Can go ahead and close the sale as long as the Purchase agreement discloses the exchange.
• 45 day window (from the close date) to name the replacement properties (the ones Mrs. Smith wants to buy)
• 180 days to actually close on both properties.
• Any extra fund left over after the close…yep…the tax man gets his share of that amount.

Now there’s more to this than what’s mentioned here, and for more precise info on this subject

1031 ECI

I highly recommend.

Now is Washington a good place to invest in real estate after selling the same in another state? Mrs. Smith thinks so, and after reviewing the appreciation rates for 2006 today (more to come on that at another date) she can’t wait to get the ‘declining’ property sold and reinvested here in our area.

I can’t say I blame her.

photo courtesy of www.patriotnetwork.info

# 24 is retired to the rafters and another #24 passes

2007-02-26T20:23:00.000-08:00

I Just got home flip-ed on the tube and am watching the halftime show of the Sonics/trailblazers game. Spencer Haywood, the original #24 is being recognized and his # retired as it should be. He finished his Seattle career at the time I became a Seattle-lite, however I remember him as truly the 1st superstar Seattle has had. On a side note the next #24 that I really remember as I watched him help the Sonics win their NBA championship against the Washington Bullets back in 1979, is Dennis Johnson. Sadly he collapsed on a basketball court coaching last week. Truly a happy and sad note for tonight's game. You will both be missed. As we embark on a battle to keep the Sonics in Seattle, I really hope we can do just that. Photos from the following:

The Strength Coach

and

Sports Illustrated/CNN

Just another day in the life of a realtor!

2007-02-26T09:54:00.000-08:00

To many who are not in my profession, this story may not have meaning. To me, when I read this from my real estate friend residing back East (I will refer to her as Susan to protect her identity)I could empathise. She writes:

'Just picked up a new buyer through an Internet lead service. Nice young woman. Returns calls immediately, responds to e-mails promptly, agrees to work with me and we meet last night to go over paperwork, chat, then go view a two-family she knows she wants. She lives near the place, knows all about it, knows she is going to want to put in an offer. In the ten minute drive to the property, I learn:

1) Her fiancé was killed in a drive-by shooting;
2) She is suspicious, does not believe the story given by the other guy in the car; starts her own investigation;
3) A few weeks in, her dog is poisoned in the yard;
4) Her mother is now dead, she cannot turn to her for help;
5) Dad's in prison. No contact.
6) The house she has been renting a room in, and paying fairly high rent for, is going into foreclosure because the landlord took the money, did not pay the mortgage, and split.
7) She begins talks with the bank about buying the house herself because she loves it. At first they tell her she can buy it; she gets her financing in order. She qualifies for a mortgage larger than what the house will go for, so she figures she is all set. Not so fast. Sooooo many problems attached to this house, the title, etc., that she just decides she wants to get something else.
8) We go to the house, in the dark, in a not-safe neighborhood (her neighborhood, so I feel somewhat safer with her). Get key out of lockbox. Great. I can see that it is a brand new key, and I know what is coming. Right. Key does not work. I call the listing agent, a bulldog of a guy, Nickolay, who sounds like he is from the Russian Mafia. Nickolay keeps saying , "RRRR, YES, key should vork. Key should vork!" I keep trying. Key not vorking. Nicolay cannot meet us, he is having belated Valentine's Dinner with his girlfriend. Which is interesting, because I know Nikolay and his WIFE, lol. Met them at Realtor functions in the past. I reschedule for Saturday at 10:00.
9) This is going to be a short relationship. She is sweet and trusting, but I don't see her becoming one of my future friends-who-started-as-buyers. We just don't seem to run in the same social circles.'

Just another day in the life of a realtor.

Moving to Seattle? What the recruiter’s won’t tell you...but you NEED to know!

2007-02-21T17:25:00.000-08:00

The other day it happened again…the call came in. Being a relocation specialist, working with relocating clients going to work for Microsoft and others, my job is helping folks moving to Seattle, find a suitable replacement property that they can call home. Of course the majority moving here from out of state, have a home they are leaving. The call comes in and goes something like this, when the client is asked to describe the criteria for their new home:

‘I would like a 4 bedroom, 3 bath, about 3,000 square feet, all brick, on between 1 and 2 acres, newer than 5 years…and of course, I need to be 15 to 20 minute commute to MS….Oh, it doesn’t need to have a pool like we have in our current home, we realize it rains a lot here and we wouldn’t use it that much.’…and price? I ask…’Somewhere between $400,000 and $425,000 should work fine as our home just sold for about $350,000’, they add.

This makes life very interest. I am feeling quite concerned for the family moving here at this point, while they are excited about their new career opportunity, coming from a home described above, we are really in trouble at this point. I really need to get them on track with our real estate market here, and quickly, as well as start tweaking the criteria to figure out their priority’s, as we certainly can’t keep ALL the criteria as it is.

For instance, we can start with the preferred price along with the short commute and we find ourselves probably looking at a 2 or 3 bedroom, 1400 to 1500 sf., 10 year and younger town home in Redmond or maybe the Sammamish plateau. If we go to the criteria mentioned above, in a single family home, we are 45 to 60 minute commute and still at a price of at least $700k to $800k, minus the brick, maybe the age, and possibly the 1 to 2 acres. If we come in a bit closer in commute, definitely the lot size goes down and the price goes up. I feel like I sound like Howie on "Deal or NO Deal".

Without examining this to death, I really don’t know what the answer is here. I’m not blaming the recruiters; their job is to sell the recruit on the company and on our area. Quite frankly, they may not have the expertise to even guide the recruit with correct real estate information anyway. That’s not their job. Our job though, is and will be to find either a way to educate these folks ahead of time, or, give a crash course education as soon as possible, fine tune the priorities, and find the best possible home to meet their needs. Sometimes, it can feel like a trapeze act at the Barnum & Bailey…but I love the challenge and the happy smiles when we finally close on their new home by meeting somewhere between their initial dream and the reality of living in the Seattle area.

If you’re thinking of moving to Seattle, pick up the phone or drop an email, we’ll be happy to give you the straight scoop. It sure beats the alternative.

Bellevue Real Estate...It's coming of age!

2007-02-20T20:36:00.000-08:00

I’ve been thinking for months now that I must update folks as to what the %*#%@ is happening to our once sleepy community here in downtown Bellevue. When I was asked today by a truly great realtor and super ‘blog Queen’

Ardell

, what I thought of a new town home community sprouting up, so, I might as well share my thoughts here. Well, at first glance for the person visiting here from another area of the US of A, it may sound expensive to pay $870,000 for a non-single family residence.

Oh quite contraire, as time will tell. These beautifully designed Row houses, with brick exteriors and contemporary styling are in the heart of Bellevue. These homes are designed to emphasize an urban lifestyle w/nicely landscaped courtyards, an extension of McCormick Park and a short stroll to the growing amenities that are evolving in downtown Bellevue. Approximately 2,000 square feet of cutting edge interiors, these 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath town homes complete with underground two stall parking as well as 2 guest stalls, will be one of the best downtown real estate investments to be seen in the next few years.

Does it seem steep? Sure, just as a Medina waterfront property seemed outrageous when selling at $100,000 back in the 1950’s and is now however selling 40, 50 and in some cases over 100 times that amount. More to come on the changes to Bellevue in the coming weeks. Bellevue is coming of age!!

A new national MLS listing service?

2007-01-04T20:02:00.000-08:00

Point 2 Technologies (providers of Point 2 Agent web sites) announced today, the launch of the Point 2 NLS (National Listing Service).
Having been a client of Point 2 for my website services for a while now, it doesn’t surprise me that they are leading the way towards an new innovative Internet access point to market real estate listings nationally. This company has a network of currently over 104,000 that allows real estate agents all over the world to share their listings with each other in what they call "Handshake Listings", and it looks like they are taking it to the next level.
The "NLS" is a service that allows real estate agents to display their properties across the Point 2 network, just another tool in the Internet advertising arsenal. For a complete story of this with links to press releases and additional info, please visit my friend and realtor associate Jay at

The Phoenix Real Estate guy

As to my feelings on the matter, when I started in this industry, we had a bi-monthly listing book with all of the local listings with a beautiful black and white photo of the front of the home. Ye hah!!...and that was ALL we had. The Internet came along, the mls wanted to start sharing our listings with the net (hellooo… they knew the net was here to stay, why fight it). Many of the old timers fought the change. Those same folks are now retired. Personally, I embrace it. Our value, as a realtor, is not in keeping our listing information secret…it is getting our clients from point A to point B in the best way possible for them with the least amount of trauma. Bring on the next wave…I gave up the phone book years ago

Mount Rainier is alive and well…

2006-12-30T17:07:00.000-08:00

When my little sister called me a couple days ago saying ‘hey big brother, I think Bob and I are interested in a little 10 cabin lodge over in Ashford, WA… what do you think?’ Well, 1st off, I’ve never heard of Ashford. As it turns out, this little town is nestled 5 miles from the entrance to Mount Rainier National Park. So at the crack of dawn this morning, sis and hubby leave Salem, Oregon and my bride, the 6lb watchdog and I, all 3 of us, climb into the antique jalopy and head for Mt. Rainier. Two and a half hours later we’re sitting at the Park entrance in a few inches of snow. Awesome sight. The Park is currently closed to car travel (trail hiking only) as they are doing road work because of the November snowfall and the big blow we had a couple weeks back. No worries, we were here for the purpose of visiting this little gem (click on link below photo for additional photos)

Stone Creek Lodge

From Stone Creek L...

While currently for sale as a business opportunity, SCL is owner operated and occupied and is truly a great hide-away. Pine walled cabins, gas fireplaces in most, is perfect for the folks wanting an escape from phones, TV, email and the Internet. Yep, bring a good book and settle in for a cozy evening in front of the gas fireplace. If your up for a day hike you are only 200 feet from the Park entry and a natural paradise.

From Stone Creek L...

Kara, born to be a sled dog, had a great trip today, however is totally exhausted and is currently snoring while chasing field mice in snow covered pastures.

Ok, Promise not to spend too many hours at this...

2006-12-29T10:34:00.000-08:00

...Smackin' the penguin. This may be the 3rd step of my 12 step program. Really folks, I am truly an animal lover contrary to what this may lead you to believe.

1. Click on the link below.

2. Click once on the snowman.

3. Click once on the snowman to hit the penguin with the bat as he
descends from the cliff.

4. What is your distance?

5. Click Okay and try again!

Click here to

Smack the Penguin

What is your record?

Caution!!! Addictive!!!

A winter walk-about along Lake Washington

2006-12-27T17:47:00.000-08:00

Looking for a nice place to spend a few hours? With many folks having a another few days off before the new year comes flyin’ in to greet us, this may be a good option for you.

From Coulon Beach ...

Just 10 minutes from Bellevue and maybe 15 or so from dt Seattle, Renton has a special place know as Coulon Beach Park. Now, many folks may not be aware of this little jewel, as it’s only visible if you exit I405 at SE 44th and you drive along lake Washington Blvd south towards Renton. It has boardwalk piers, a great paved trail along the lake, outdoor picnic seating, boat launching and docking (mainly used in the Spring/Summer/Fall months, duh) and if it’s a bit chilly and your looking for good, warm bite, there is also the famous Ivars

From Coulon Beach ...

(Fish & Chips or a warm bowl of clam chowder) or Kidd Valley ( a super burger or an order of garlic fries, yum, yum. I had to have a little of them all). Speaking of Ivars, if you plan your trip whereby you can be there after dusk and do this before January 1st, you will treated Ivar's ‘clam lights’ along the shore. If not maybe a bit of bird feeding

From Coulon Beach ...

oops...watching!!

From Coulon Beach ...

No one needs to go to jail from just doing a nice winter walk-about. A fun way to work off some of those unwanted holiday lbs!!

Maintaining a level of sanity

2006-12-23T10:59:00.000-08:00

This time of the year, while it can bring joy to most, it also can be a sad time for others. A friend of mine asked the question: “Do you ever feel beat? Exhausted, worn out? How do you keep going on those days? Without taking drugs to perk up?”

Well, another friend offered the 17 Ways to Maintain A Healthy Level of Insanity

1. At Lunch Time, Sit In Your Parked Car With Sunglasses on and Point A Hair Dryer At Passing Cars. See If They Slow Down.
2. Page Yourself Over The Intercom. Don't Disguise Your Voice.
3. Every Time Someone Asks You To Do Something, Ask If They Want Fries with that.
4. Put Your Garbage Can On Your Desk And Label It "In."
5. Put Decaf In The Coffee Maker For 3 Weeks. Once Everyone Has Gotten Over Their Caffeine Addictions, Switch To Espresso.
6. In the Memo Field Of All Your Checks, Write "For Sexual Favors"
7. Finish All Your Sentences With "In Accordance With The Prophecy."
8. Don’t Use Any Punctuation
9. As Often As Possible, Skip Rather Than Walk.
10. Ask People What Sex They Are. Laugh Hysterically After They Answer.
11. Specify That Your Drive-through Order Is "To Go."
12. Sing Along At The Opera.
13. Go To A Poetry Recital And Ask Why The Poems Don't Rhyme.
14. Put Mosquito Netting Around Your Work Area And Play Tropical Sounds All Day.
15. Five Days In Advance, Tell Your Friends You Can't Attend Their Party because you’re not in the Mood.
16. Have Your Co-workers Address You by Your Wrestling Name, Rock Hard.
17. When The Money Comes Out The ATM, Scream "I Won! I Won!"

Seattle's Big Blow of 2006

2006-12-19T16:28:00.000-08:00

It’s Tuesday and we Seattle-ites are beginning to thaw out a bit as many of us (almost a million households) have been without electricity, heat, cooking equipment, etc since the very wee hours of Friday AM. With massive gusts of wind rocking our area at almost 70 miles an hour and more in some areas, we we’re literally crippled overnight. Seattle folks aren’t used to being in survival mode, but I think for the most part we held up pretty well. Traffic signals not functioning, we crawled at a snails pace to the dead intersection where we (most of us anyway) treated it like a four-way stop, waited out turn and then crept along to the next one where we repeated the maneuvers. We learned to read by flashlight, eat cold sandwiches (and be mighty happy for them), bundle up in piles of blankets to try to sleep, brush teeth in frigid water, go for a few days without a warm shower (not too pleasant was that one) as well as learn to live with NO TV or radio background noise. I did listen to the AM when driving to catch up on what was happening with the power, etc. and it was truly heartwarming to hear others respond by calling the radio station as they heard of others in need and offer their help. Whether they had extra firewood, a generator they weren’t using or just offering warm food, it made me proud to live in Seattle. As of last count, I think we are down to under 200,000 homes without power, according to

The Seattle Times

and hopefully we will get back to normal soon.

Step 2 of the 12 step process?

2006-12-13T16:39:00.000-08:00

As you know from reading earlier, I’m trying to get into the spirit of things and quit being such a scrooge. A friend shared this fun little game that can be had with Mr. Saint Nick. This may just be the 2nd step in the 12 step process for me, but I think I like it. I tried commands such as ‘ride Rudolph, cartwheel & drink beer’ (what can I say, it’s a past time of mine). What can you get Santa to do?

Simon says Santa

What did you ask Santa to do and were you surprised by his reaction?
I don't know how this little winter magic woks, but I like it. Am I on the way to recovery?

It’s Cristmas time…Baaahhh humbug

2006-12-08T13:31:00.000-08:00

I won’t go into all the details, but this time of the year tends to be a bit difficult for me. It may be for you as well. I grew up ALL my childhood never participating in the Christmas holiday. For religious reasons, it was just something my family NEVER did, not even once. Here I am, as an adult, trying not to be the ‘scrooge’ that my wife jokingly ribs me about being. Just the day after Thanksgiving, I found myself leaving the local Fred Meyer store early in the morning, when I hear someone off to my left, say the words “Merry Christmas”, as they had just strapped the tree to the top of there car. I felt very ashamed of myself a few seconds later as I realized that what immediately popped into my mind (and thankfully didn’t come shooting out of my mouth) was "It’s a little 'bleepin' early for that isn’t it?" It was at that moment that I realized 1) it was the day after Thanksgiving, so no it’s NOT too early and 2) maybe I am a scrooge and golly geewiz Batman, I better get over it. Ashamed as I am to be telling this story, I'm hoping this is the 1st step of the 12 step recovery program. So as I try to set myself straight, I hope you will enjoy my 1st attempt at getting into the season.

Santa’s little helper

Just checked this and discovered that 'the face' is now missing. Hmmn...it worked for a few days. The site may be experiencing a bit of difficulty with the increase of visitors. It's kind of fun to do one of yourself and send out, but it's certainly better when you don't join the realm of the faceless.

What's in your attic?

2006-12-04T17:41:00.000-08:00

Having been involved in 3 or 4 home inspections during the past couple of weeks or so, I’m reminded of a story from about 7 or 8 years ago. I will try to re-tell it exactly as I remember it, so if you are sensitive to a swear word now and again, my apologies. So the home inspector for this 1920’s, farm style, 1.5 story home in the outskirts of Seattle discovers in the dormer storage sections upstairs, that among the rafters, there lie a few abandoned mattresses which happened to be absolutely covered with rat excrement. Now, I’ve been through many inspections and have seen numerous rodent droppings in both attic and crawl spaces, but I have not ever seen one to this extent. So, the seller agrees to have a professional check out and correct the situation. The pest professional is called and the seller and myself meet at the property. Upon the return from the ‘attic’ where the festivities had been happening, the ‘exterminator’ says: ‘Yep. You’ve got a rat problem alright, and you’ve got yourself a “Norwegian” rat.’

Norway rat

“Norwegian rats”, we ask, “can you get rid of them?” His reply: “Well, it’s not a them as you only have one.” “One", we ask, "how do you know?” Seems odd to the seller and I that there could only be one rat with the amount of you know what scattered everywhere. So he says, starting to get a little attitude at this point: “Yep, like I said you only have one, as the Norwegian rat is very unsociable and in fact hates all other rats and will fight ‘em and run ‘em off.” “You’re kidding right?” We ask. “Listen buddy” he says, getting a little hostile now, “I’ve been looking at rat sh*t for over 30 years and I know my rat sh*t and I can tell ya, you have a Norway rat and you only have one of ‘em.” Well, the seller and I were amazed at his knowledge and of course hired his company to come out and trap the little fella. The next week, the ‘trapping kid’ comes out and of course he wasn’t aware that we just had one Norway rat and he sets multiple traps in the attic. Well, needless to say, over the next 4 weeks as the ‘trap kid’ returns every week to empty the traps, he hauls away at least 7 large rat bodies to the rat graveyard. So much for the expert on the nationality of ‘our’ furry attic dwellers…kind a funny though, for many years afterward, the two small sons of the buyer, would refer to the attic storage area as the “rattic”. For a real expert, contact the following:

Willards Pest Control

The Ratman

or for more interesting reading about the rat problem in Seattle, the following in the

Seattle Weekly

Pirillo’s sign ‘the docs’ and ARE actually moving!

2006-12-01T12:10:00.000-08:00

After a few false alarms, Chris & Ponzi, just a week before they tie the knot, signed their loan docs this morning and are moving after all.

Pirillo signing on closing day

Having stayed up all night, juiced on god knows how much caffeine, they showed up bright and bushy tailed for their 8:30AM escrow appointment this morning. I’m always amazed when I witness ‘the signing’ ritual as Linda (the signer) waves her hand over each page while summarizing in a hypnotic flow, what in layman’s terms the legal mumbo jumbo actually is saying, as the buyers follow the trance-like instructions and sign their life away. Even when they get to the part where Linda shows what a person actually pays for a property, should they stay there for the full 30 year term, and make each payment (usually about 3 times the actual price of the home) the buyers after the initial shock and gasping wears off, enthusiastically dot the ‘I’ and cross the ‘T’. Congrats Chris & Ponzi on this special step taken and it’s on the get the keys and get that moving truck to your 1st home together.

Chris, Chris & Chris discuss YouTube

2006-11-29T15:34:00.000-08:00

Once in a while we meet folks that blow us away with their uniqueness. I think you'll agree that Chris is one of those folks. I mentioned

Chris

Ponzi

a few days ago (see 'Beauty & the geek' below), however today I watched Chris’s video comparison of YouTube, Google video and Revvor and found it quite humorous. Just thought I’d share. Make sure you scroll down far enough so that you can see all three videos on your screen at the same time, then press the play button for each video starting from the top one. This will only work if you play the videos on the same page together. After watching you could probably imagine what it was like discussing different properties with Ponzi, Chris, Chris & Chris...well you'll get the picture.

Snowstorm hits Bellevue, stranding Mr & Mrs ‘H’…

2006-11-28T17:48:00.000-08:00

…in their brand new digs.

From Mr & Mrs 'H'

Having just closed on their home purchase only a few weeks ago, little did Jon & Janna know that their new home in Bellevue would trap them and keep them from making the short (normally 20 to 30 minutes) commute to work. But sure enough, a few days after Thanksgiving they found themselves cozy’d up in front of the fireplace, unable to maneuver the auto in the frozen white stuff, gazing out the windows at a truly winter wonderland. This 1 acre paradise, only minutes from downtown Bellevue, was an incredible find for them, and an amazing story in itself, as to how we were able to successfully purchase this property amongst some very stiff buyer competition. Having helped J & J purchase their last home (one they had never seen in person prior to closing…and a story in itself) about 3 years ago…this transaction with them truly brought tears to my eyes. The setting, down a private lane of split rail fencing, spacious pasture sized yards, streams and ponds meandering through many of the 20 or so homes sprinkled in this tight knit community, is spectacular. This time, I actually got to see the excitement on their faces as we stood next to the small apple orchard in their future back yard, discussing the particulars of putting an offer together for this Bellevue gem. Today, I drove the 4x4, studded tires and all, to make a visit to them, drove down the lane marked with nothing but footprints of humans and nature (no tire marks) to find their beaming faces greet me at the door…it really gave me a satisfied feeling. In this case, rather then folks moving every 4 years as the national average, I hope Jon & Janna will be able to stay in that paradise for many, many years to come.

Dawgs & Cats…coming together

2006-11-28T17:03:00.000-08:00

From Apple Cup 2006

Having the pain of that fateful Saturday of the 18th behind me, I just thought it was time to finally post a few pics of our annual get together, whereby we assemble as friends, both Cougs or Huskies alike, to cheer, toast, rejoice or in a few cases collapse in defeat. Even though the outcome was a sad one (UW 35, WSU 32) for most of us in the group…yes there were a few die hard Huskies in our circle, we still enjoy each others company and wouldn’t miss it for anything. Looking forward to next year when???

Beauty & The Geek...a bloggers home buying experience

2006-11-20T11:47:00.000-08:00

A couple summers ago, some very special past clients introduced me to

Chris

Ponzi

a handsome young couple, wanting to buy a home together and thought that I would be able to help them. I’ll never forget our 1st time out house shopping on that Saturday morning. As we enter the front door of this 5 year young two-story with basement, there’s an immediate transformation of the young man, from being subdued, quiet and in control to that of an ecstatic ‘kid in a candy store’. Chris charges into the foyer, yanks the baseball cap from his head, screaming, ‘Babe, Babe...Ohhh Babe, You got of see this’ as he races through the home, shrieking more at each level and culminating with a howl of shear delight upon arriving in the basement and seeing the theater room complete with video screen and projector. Well, Chris & Ponzi didn’t buy that home and in fact after spending the summer looking at properties, never really being able to find just the right one, decided to wait a year. As things turned out in fact, the time for buying a home here in Seattle didn’t happen till the present, a month before their upcoming wedding no less, and having just made it through

The Inspection

I’m happy to say this young couple will have an extremely beautiful home to move into in the next couple weeks. Thank you,

Robert

Maryam

for the referring of Ponzi & Chris (the beauty & the geek…blogging podcasters extraordinaire) back those two summers ago. It has been a long time coming for them but now homeownership will become a reality and I feel fortunate to have been able to get to know them a bit and to assist. ‘Babe, Babe...Ohhh Babe, come here quick, you got to see this!’ Priceless!

It's all in the shoes...or is it?

2006-11-17T10:05:00.000-08:00

From shoes

Recently I was with a client and evidently I was in one of my ‘down’ moments. They don’t happen very often with me but in this case I must have made a comment about my shoes. Now, I’m definitely no fashion plate and over the last year or so, with a few foot and ankle issues, I have come to wear a very comfortable pair of

New Balance walkers

. Now this of course isn’t the type of shoe you see on the average Bellevue realtor who is known to wear something like

From shoes

so maybe I was being a bit critical of myself at the moment. Well, a note arrived at my office a few days later…it went like this: “Stan, I just wanted you to know that there’s a lot more to choosing a realtor then what he or she wears or the car he or she drives. My husband and I chose you to represent us in our selling of our home and the purchase of a new one, not for the shoes or the car, but because of your experience, your honesty and your willingness to put our needs ahead of your own. Thanks for being our agent and please don’t change who you are.” Well, I can’t tell you completely how these comments made me feel, but I will say, they have helped put a little more ummpphh into my step…even it is only in ‘black tennies’. It’s also helped me to try not to be to quick to judge others by what is shown on the outside (yeah I know isn’t that what our mothers tried to teach us anyway when we were young?)…don’t know about you, but I sometimes find myself slipping into that mode. OK, enough of the serious talk….

The afternoon from hell...I'll never complain again!!

2006-11-16T12:44:00.000-08:00

I've just come to the conclusion that no matter how bad a day may get, whatever hassles, pain & frustration that can creep into my waking moments, it is all nothing compared to how I spent a 3 hour segment of yesterday. It was a planned event, and though dreaded, was a necessity and alas a bit surprising. I met with

The Doc

a month ago for the evaluation. He was so kind, understanding, soft spoken and gentle, I thought 'I can trust this man to take of proper care of me in this matter'. Well, what the hell happens to people when they put on the miner's helmet, grab a pick, a hammer, a chisel and a drill? Well, I'll tell ya...it's all business and the gentle kind doc can become a driven Mr. Hyde. Three hours of stabbing, prying, poking, drilling, grab the screwdriver, the hammer and beat on it till you think your jaw will fall off...and I left feeling like Lilliputians with axes, shovels and dynamite had used my mouth for excavation exercises.

From dentist Nov 06

Seriously, today, I actually feel a whole lot better then anticipated (was able to eat a bowl of soup and actually have had plenty of phone conversations), so I must credit the doc for a job well done. He got 2 very difficult bad boys out, did some gum grafting as well and I'm sure I'll be better for it in the long run. Thanks to those clients and co-workers who had the patience to allow me that nice little break in the day yesterday. I will never complain about having a bad day again!!

Scoble and wife rock at the blogging summit!!

2006-10-30T18:29:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update on the fabulous Blogging Summit held at Seattle’s waterfront last week. I only had the privilege of attending a few sessions but I will say it was truly an eye opener. From Friday morning session with

Robert Scoble

and his lovely wife

Maryam

From Seattle Blogg...

we learned “the Ten ways to a killer Blog”. The contrasting style between husband and wife and the way they play off each other was both a pleasure to watch and informative to boot. The next session and only other one I was able to attend, featured Robert,

Andru Edwards

and

Mary Hodder

and it opened my eyes to a video blogging world that I had no idea was as strong as it is. For a laugh an artist such as

Ze Frank

is just one of the creative and entertaining Vlogs out there. A big thank you again to Maryam for the invite to this great Blogging Summit 2006. I hope I can get back next year.

The real estate boom…Is it over?

2006-10-30T15:58:00.000-08:00

The real estate boom…Is it over?

Many around the country say yes. New homes sales appear to be down this year over the past few years in many cities across the US. Resale home prices appear to either have stabilized or have started to head south. Interesting article recently, forecasts what you can expect in the next ten years as regards to real estate prices in 15 Metropolitan cities. Find out where Seattle falls in. Veeeeerrrry interesting. Lacey Rose from Forbes.com writes:

MSN’s real estate article

Blogger summit lands in Seattle

2006-10-27T09:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was interesting. A couple days ago I got a call from

Maryam

inviting me to speak as a panelist at a

blogger’s business summit

. Without thinking I agreed to participate. 2 sleepless night later I arrive at the Bell Harbor facility nervous as hell. I’m not a great blogger and I’m going to sit on a panel along with some of the country’s best. I’m not even qualified to unlatch their laptop. Well, as the time approached, I was greeted by the lovely moderator,

Jory Des Jardins

. She made me feel welcome and seemed to calm the nerves a bit. She understood that my profession is selling real estate full time and not that of being a professional blogger. As the session starts I find myself in awe listening to the 2 other panelists Andru Edwards who has his own

geek blog

and also Kevin O’Keefe who has his own company whereby he

teaches lawyers to blog

. Wow, an incredible hour of learning from those two. The hour flew by, my nervousness was replaced by an excitement to learn from this group of professionals. Maryam & Jory, I thank you for inviting me and I will see you guys for the morning session as I have a few free hours this morning to be enlightened a bit more. I hear the famous

Robert

& Maryam will be having a session on the "10 ways to a killer blog". Can’t wait. See you there.

A Coug weekend to remember…or not??

2006-10-24T15:56:00.000-07:00

For many a year now, once a year, my buddies and I have made the trek east to a little town named

Pullman

. Pullman is a college town, home of the

Washington State University Cougars

and is nestled in the hills an hour or so south of Spokane, surrounded by wheat fields, corn and God knows what else. It all started 12 years ago, when my buddy

From Coug weekend ...

Dave had a son attending this fine school and the trip continues annually, long after the afore mentioned son has graduated. In fact, what started with just Dave and I has grown to as many as 9 or 10 of us making the voyage. This year 8 hearty souls, start out early at the crack of dawn on Friday, drive a few hours to Vantage along the Columbia River, stop for breakfast (and a coffee with a wee bit of Kahlua of course) and then drive the remaining 3 hours to Pullman. The game not being played until the next day leaves us with some time on our hands. Well, there’s not much to do in this little college town but visit a few of their finest establishments, partaking of a few delectable beverages & tasty morsels of fried food. Having survived Friday, much to the surprise of some of us, Saturday morning we awaken before the sun as one of us feels the necessity to get to the stadium, find a parking spot and start the ‘tailgate’ event at least 7 hours before game time. So there we are, it’s 8:30AM before a 2:00PM game, freezing our cohunes off in 30 degree weather and the pregame festivies begin. Well, you know the drill; the ‘camp coffee’, the mid morning brews, the brats, the shots, the football is tossed. Needless to say, the entourage makes it through a fantastic game, beating the pants off the hated Oregon Ducks (ranked 16th in the nation at the time), which is an incredible feat in itself, heads back to the parking lot to celebrate a bit more. Another evening to enjoy the small town atmosphere before the early rise on Sunday to make the 5+ hour trip home to watch the Seahawk’s shellacking. There it is, the annual Coug weekend summary.

The 2006 Coug weekend photo gallery

for those who have any inclination (I can’t imagine who would) to see a glimpse of grown men making fools of themselves. Thanks Dave for the great trip and I’m sure we all can’t wait for October 2007 to arrive.

The land that time forgot...

2006-10-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I traveled back into time to the land that time forgot. The day before, I’d sold a property and the signed contract and a few other pertinent documents needed to be delivered to the buyer’s, who happened to live in a place known as

Anderson Island

.

So I decided, a beautiful, crisp, Seattle fall day, the sun was out, I had a few hours available; I’ll just head out on this li’l adventure. So I head south, through Tacoma, then head west and hit the little town know as

Steilacoom

.

Anderson Island is only accessible by driving to Steilacoom and taking the 20-minute ferry to the island. Wow, Steilacoom, is in itself a trip back in time. The very 1st incorporated town in Washington, this little place would be a fun trip if I had more time than just a few hours. I did, however, have a 45 minute wait to catch the 5 O’clock ferry, so to my surprise, right next to the car line I spot

Steilacoom Wine & Beer

.
OK, twist my arm. Jake (the owner, chief cook, bottle washer and wine pourer) was a great source of info as well as he pours a great red “Nessun Dorma”. Converted from a historic auto garage, the bay door was open, the fall air streaming in, and the atmosphere quaint and relaxing. There was no better way to spend an hour waiting for the ferry. Try it sometime. Friday and Saturdays, Jake even has wine tasting or if you prefer sample one of his over 200 different beers from around the world.
As the ferry lands at Anderson Island, and you drive away, you immediately feel that you’ve entered a time warp. Two small lakes, a golf course, community center, a small grocer, unique homes on oversized lots, trees, trees and more trees make this a great place for the approximate 1,000 full time residents and 4,000 to 5,000 part timers and summer time vacationers. Oh, did I mention, there are some incredible views of

Mount Rainier

as well. A great day trip if you’d like to do a bit of time travel.

The housing bubble in Seattle...Is it about to burst?

2006-10-09T16:10:00.000-07:00

Lately it seems that wherever we turn we hear or read about the dreaded housing bubble. Are we in one? If not are we heading for one? Should we buy a home now or should we wait for this inevitable bubble to burst and then watch as housing prices tumble into the sewer and then we can swoop down and make the housing purchase of a lifetime. Here’s an interesting article I found today addressing the ‘housing bubble’ and it’s burstability (if that’s a word) in the Seattle area. I hope you find it helpful to the decision making process.

King County Journal

If this doesn't help, call me and I'll consort with the crystal ball and the card readers.

When we're at the bottom of the abyss...

2006-10-06T11:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we go through periods in our lives when we seem to hit the bottom of the pit as it were. I seem to have been in that exact place the last 3 or 4 weeks. I won’t go into too many details here but suffice to say, I lost a very valuable laptop and along with it (because of my stupidity in not backing up) I lost 13 years worth of data, contact info, etc as well. That can really put one’s frame of mind in the dumper for a while. Well, yesterday, out of the blue, I received an email, that went a long way to helping me make that long climb out of the ditch. You’ve read a bit about the priveledge I had in assisting the Scoble’s with their home sale and this morning, I received an email from Maryam Scoble with a thank you and a link to her blog post on October 4th. I'm sharing this because, not only was this a big lift to me, but some very savvy advise from Maryam to other home buyers and sellers.

Maryam posted to her blog

[see: "October 04: For sale NOT by owner: Lessons we learned from selling our house in four days"]

Thank you Maryam!! You’ll never know how much I appreciate your kinds words. They could not have come at a better time. Thanks again as well for the great advise to other folks with real estate interests.

The day in time we will never forget!!

2006-09-10T20:12:00.000-07:00

As long as I live I will never forget the morning of September 11th, 2001. I awoke very early as I usually do, went to the phone to check and see if I had any voice messages from the night before or early morning. I had been in late night negotiations with a young family trying to purchase a home of their dreams. I also had an early morning appointment with a close friend of mine and client, and we were scheduled to go out house shopping that day. So as I listen to my voice mail, and hear my appointment for that day, sobbing on my phone saying, 'I'm sure by the time who hear my message you will know what is happening, and if not, just turn on the TV...you will understand why I an cancelling today'. Well, I turned on the TV and saw what we all did, 1 building that had been hit, in flames. I was in shock. This was the country we live in. It wasn't some other country that we had grown up watching war and devastation on the 5:oo O'clock news. Unbelievable. As I stood stunned watching building 1 on fire, within moments I saw building 2 approached and struck LIVE by the 2nd terrorist hijacked jet. As with the rest of the country and probably the world, my life changed that day. I did not lose loved ones as many thousands of others did, however it changed my world and my life, as well I'm sure it did, all of our lives. Tonight I just watched

The 911 Report

Now, was it 100% acurate and factual? I don't know. Was it touching and cause me to relive those horrible moments and have heartfelt memories for that dreadful day 5 years ago tomorrow? You bet! I think tomorrow, I will treat the day a bit differently than normal. I think I will try to be more caring, thoughtful and considerate than what I hope to be daily anyway. Thousands lost their lives 5 years ago, many in the effort of trying to save the lives of others. My thoughts are with you on this anniversary of tragedy. It kind of puts life in perspective for me on this day. Where were you 5 years ago on September 11th?

Behind the iron gates...

2006-09-05T17:38:00.000-07:00

...lies a quiet 3 Acre sanctuary, complete with a 3 year young, craftsman two-story. The proud owners of this property hate to leave, but as they tell me...'the grand-kids are getting bigger and we don't want to miss their lives completely'. So unfortunately they must head to Texas to be near the grand-kids. What they leave behind for the next proud to be owner is quite remarkable. Near Cottage Lake in Woodinville is this private estate...a park-like setting, completely fenced, a stone patio...and inside, granite, maple, marble and more.

The Virtual Tour

will tell a better story.

The crock hunter can wrestle no more

2006-09-04T21:04:00.000-07:00

I was away for the weekend and upon my return I hear this. I kind of expected to hear news of war and the like. Instead, I come home to hear that the man know as the "CROCODILE hunter", Steve Irwin had been killed by a stingray barb. Hello...He fought and wrestled with some of the meanest man eating creatures alive...and a sting ray barb accidentally 'pierced his chest while filming on the Great Barrier Reef.'
WOW kids. life is short. we may think we are at the top of our game and are invincible. Not true. let's take time to touch the lives of the folks we love...or at least stay out of the deep blue. Steve...You will be missed and I'm sure all of our thoughts go out to your wife and kids.

The story:

Steve Irwin

Meet Goldiwarts!

2006-08-31T18:57:00.000-07:00

If you haven't been to The Bellevue Botanical Gardens yet. Do yourself a favor and come out and see it. The garden is owned and maintained by the City of Bellevue's Parks and Community Services Department in conjunction with the Bellevue Botanical Garden Society and comprises 36 acres of display gardens, woodlands, meadows and wetlands. Highlights include the NPA Perennial Border, Waterwise Garden, Yao Japanese Garden, Alpine Rock Garden and summer displays of dahlias and fuchsias.
Admission to the Garden is free and each Saturday and Sunday, April through October a tour begins at the visitor center at 2pm. To see more and read about the special events coming in the next few weeks, including a 'rare plant auction' please visit;

Bellevue Botanical Garden

Art is coming to Redmond

2006-08-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

Eastsiders...Looking for something to do next weekend? The Northwest Crafts Alliance is having a 3 day showing event, entitled

Art of Marymoor Park

starting Friday, the 18th and running through Sunday, the 20th. It will include almost 100 of the finest artists in the Northwest, showing their work in ceramics, glass, jewelry, leather, photography and more. See you next weekend.

Kirkland's Real Estate Scene...

2006-08-08T16:56:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks a go I did the 2 mile walk along the shores of downtown Kirkland, visited Summerfest at the Marina and shared a bit of it here on the blog. I mentioned then I would update what's happening with Kirkland's real estate. Well here's a glimpse. To get waterfront in the downtown area, single family homes (which there are very few) can range from anywhere $2 Million to almost $10 Million. A better choice might be the condo. Kirkland was probably 1 of the 1st cities on the Eastside to really start to develop condominiums. Even today, it is considered to be the condo leader. With Kirkland's great waterfront area, shops, restaurants, watering holes,etc. it is an ideal community for the folks that don't want to be tied to the lawn mower and also want the convenience of Kirkland's amenities as well as a great location in relation to Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, etc. What will you money buy you in Kirkland? Here's a snapshot: 51 Kirkland condos available, 2 bed/2 bath (min), ranging in price from $285,000 for 1150 sf. to $5,995,000 for over 5,000 sf. nestled at the waters edge. In the last couple months the average sales price has been $636k for 1778 sf ($415 per sf.) many with gorgeous sunsets over the water. Sound like a great place to flop down in an easy chair at the end of a long day? You betcha!

Sex offenders...are they living next door...or where?

2006-07-31T20:22:00.000-07:00

This has been a subject on many of our minds for a long time, at least on the minds of us that either currently have young children, have had in the past or especially, parents with young children who are in the process of searching for and buying a home. Some of you know that I am part of a forum of Realtors all across the US and as part of that forum this topic came up recently. I felt a need to share a bit of some what we shared with each other. First, great site to check out your zip for those sex offendors registered in your neighborhood:

FamilyWatchdog

, however, it's also always a good idea to check with your local police Dept. as well for updates.

2nd, here are a couple comments of two folks that I strongly admire as individuals, both are realtors in different parts of the country, many hundreds of miles from me. I felt strongly in their words and thought you might benefit as well. Here they are:

Steve

writes:

"As a former LEO (Law enforcement officer), I have to say that unless and until we change the laws, registries like this do little to prevent an attack. Why? Four reasons.
1. Most victims know their attacker and the attacker is not registered.
2. Registries do not differentiate between "Romeo and Juliet" offenses and violent assaults, thus crowding registries with persons no more likely to offend than the average citizen on the street.
3. Registries only have recent offenders listed due to successful ex post facto proceedings. A convicted offender could be living right next door and NOT be required to register under the current law.
4. The worst of the worst do not register. They do not report to probation/parole offices as required. They are known as 'absconders' and they live among us until they are caught again.

What does all this mean? Simple. Think like a cop. When the police pull you over for a minor infraction, do they ever seem a bit cautious to you? They should. Every LEO is trained to consider every encounter to be a worst-case scenario. They assume you are armed and wanted. They expect the worst and are at a heightened state of awareness. Reach under your seat sometime like you are looking for something if you think I am kidding--you won't get shot, but they will suddenly have an intense interest in seeing how many fingers you have, saying something like, "let me see your hands, please."
Anyway, by thinking like a cop, you should always assume that predators are out there--because they are and always have been, even in the 'good old days.' No adult should want to be alone with your child. If for nothing else than their own protection from accusations. Any adult who attempts to be in that position should get your full attention. Rely on yourself. Registries are highly flawed tools. Just because there isn't a 'dot' on your subdivision doesn't mean you can let your guard down. That's exactly what a predator looks for.
Sorry to make this a bummer of a post, but I thought you might want to know."

My friend

J-Mac

(see the link on my blog for more J-Mac wisdom) writes:

"Steve,

You barely touched the tender surface of this very innocent post. They are amongst us. They have always been here. Walking the aisles of the grocery store, pausing to inhale the scent of a woman as she passes. In our parks, gleefully helping little boys down the slide. At our beaches, sitting on a blanket, behind sunglass covered eyes, watching little bikini clad pre-pubescent girls dance with the waves.
They stand and never sit on busses and subways, finding a moment to innocently brush against their prey. They have the same face every day and it begins to blend into the background of our lives.
There is no web site that will ever list them all and most will travel from youth to the grave, barely touching the surface of those they desire.
Our only protection is to be aware and to constantly teach our children that no one can be trusted.
When our children are old enough, they can decide if Uncle Bill's pat on the ass is o.k. When our children are old enough, they can let us know if they really want to sleep over at grandma's house.
We have a duty to remain vigilant for ourselves and a greater duty to protect the children we have been blessed to raise."

This was posted here, not to offend others, but just as a reminder that all of us need be watchful in our daily lives, as J-Mac said so eloquently: "We have a duty to remain vigilant for ourselves and a greater duty to protect the children"

Scoble's home closed today

2006-07-25T16:14:00.000-07:00

Many of you have read the saga of ex-Microsoft superblogger Robert Scoble and his wife Maryam putting their Kirkland area home on the market with our team last month. It brought international interest as Robert, little did I know at the time, is that Robert is a 'blog God' and Maryam a 'blog goddess'. Anyway

Robert posted to his blog

about it yesterday and it has produced some interesting comments about Zillow, nuclear power and more. Just thought I'd share it.

Incidentally, I just want to thank Robert and Maryam for allowing me the privilege of assisting them again with their real estate needs here in Seattle. On the home selling aspect, they were model sellers. They had their home staged and spotless for every showing and remained calm, considerate, caring and cooperative during the stressful times that happen during most home selling experiences. I wish you guys the best in your new adventure in CA, we will all miss you here in the Northwest. We'll be watching you on the net.

Portland…our sister to the South

2006-07-23T21:52:00.000-07:00

Having lived in the NW since I was age 12 (Ashland, Oregon) and in Seattle since age 18, I’ve driven the I-5 corridor dozens of times and yet not once did I ever exit the freeway and visit our sister city to the South. I hadn’t a clue as what was hidden below the concrete jungle and was called the city of Portland and what it had to offer, let alone what it looked like as you can’t tell much when cruising by at 65 MPH. This weekend was a 1st. Having made the 2.5 hour drive Saturday morning at 4AM, I arrived at 6:30, had coffee with dad, mom, a few siblings, their kids, kind of a small family reunion, so to speak. As the family embarked to the convention they were in Portland to attend, I had the day to myself. Hmmn, what to do? Well. 1st off, I discovered Portland has a great train system (free for the most part I might add) so I jump on it at 9:30AM, and I head off and exit 6 stops later at ‘The Saturday Market’. Now, Seattle has the

Pike Place Public Market

and the

Seattle waterfront

, but I must say Portland does a pretty bang up job on their little weekend party as well. They close a few streets down for the weekend, the street artists set up, complete with incredible food tents, beer gardens (couldn’t resist a Widmer Heffy at 11:30AM in 95 degree heat…OK it was an excuse…is that wrong?) all while being entertained by a couple great bands at different locations in the food courts. Some of the highlights from the day, pics to come later when blogspot gets the kinks in the site worked out: Jim age 14 rocked out with mom, dad and a friend playing some outrageous Stevie Ray Von and Charlie Daniels, Wesly…the snake handler kicked out of New Orleans after the hurricane is trying to make Portland a home, The Tibetan bowl singer, ‘Mr. Statue’ was captivating as he stood motionless for 10 minutes at a time all the while you’re thinking he is indeed cast in metal, when all of a sudden he starts manipulating the silver balls held in his palms in an intriguing fashion and still moving only his hands (and you still wonder...is he mechanical or human?). Too much to tell, but hey if you get a chance to make the drive for a weekend, I guarantee you'll have an enjoyable time in our sister city to the South.

Bellevue comes in at #21

2006-07-18T13:25:00.000-07:00

Money magazine reports the Best Places to Live 2006 and Bellevue comes in at #21. Some of the interesting comparisons between

Bellevue

and the averages of the other 99 are:
Median Family Income: Blvue $88,342 Ave: $76,893 (thank you Bill!)
Median Home Price: Blvue $405,000 Ave: $259,566
Median commute time: Blvue: 19.7 min. Ave: 20.8 min.
Movie theaters (15 mile radius): Blvue: 75 Ave: 22
Restaraunts (15 mile) : Blvue 4,596 Ave 2,268
Bars (15 mile): Blvue 261 Ave 127
Annual precipitation Blvue: 35.96 Ave 36.00
Cancer mortality (per 100,000) Blvue 173.1 Ave 191.3
Cardiac mortality (per 100,000) Blvue 165.6 Ave 202.0

It looks like Bellevue folks make a bit more money, (get to spend it on housing) have shorter commutes, eat, drink and go to movies more, and have less chance of passing from a couple biggies.

CNN Money

For the top 100 and how Bellevue stacks up.

Kirkland’s Summerfest 2006

2006-07-17T11:49:00.000-07:00

When to discard?

2006-07-14T13:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, it probably has to do with my upbringing, growing up in a family with 11 children, where you ate everything on your plate, nothing was thrown away, hand me down clothes was the norm, etc. So now I have the dilemma of what to do with my vehicles? The Ford Explorer has been with me since May 1993, I bought it with 15 miles on it, off the showroom floor. It has been so good to me, has given me not a lick of trouble, and has carried me for 315,000 miles, showing and previewing properties, doing Saturday and Sunday Times paper routes with my kids, even pulled a travel trailer when asked when I had a few days off. Original transmission and engine, only tune-ups, tires, maintenance type stuff. I just can’t throw it away. What do you do? Also, from both the publics’ point of view and the realtor community, what should be the replacement vehicle? I drive 36,000 miles a year and gas is going to hit the $4 mark. I’m not a Mercedes, BWW kind of guy. Need a four door, not much snow anymore in Seattle. Comments welcome and encouraged.

To open or not to open?

2006-07-09T20:29:00.000-07:00

This is a question that is being asked all across the country. The traditional Real Estate work force has always had the Sunday afternoon ritual called ‘the open house’. It goes back probably just after the horse and buggy was displaced by the Model T. That is, where the local realtor puts his shingle out, ‘opens the door to his storefront to sell his wares’, so to speak, basically invite the locals out to visit his or her listed property for sale. Over the past decade or so I have literally done thousands of these. The last 2 years I have done less than a handful. Why you ask is the change Stan? Well, we’re living in a new age. 1st of all, what you’ve probably never heard a realtor tell you, as the seller client, is the truth about why the realtor community actually does an open house. I may ruffle a few feathers among my fellow agents, but so be it. The sole purpose of the open house is for the realtor to meet prospective buyers and sellers that stumble across his/her signs and stop into the property. Sometimes, it may just be a curious neighbor wanting to see how their fellow neighbor lives, decorates, keeps house, etc. Or it truly may be a buyer looking to live in the area. Either way, the courting begins. The realtors attempt to strike a bond in hopes that the prospect will have the desire to work with him or her in either the selling or purchasing of a home or both. Very rarely is the ‘open house’ the proper match for this particular buyer and is almost certainly not in the neighbor’s interest to see it with the idea of purchasing it. I’m not saying it never happens, as I have over the past 13 or so years actually sold a handful of my own listings. However, times have changed as well as today’s agency laws are different from years ago. I will save that topic for a different day. Now, is this an important function in order to sell a property? Maybe it was back in the day we all were watching B&W television (you younger ones probably have never seen such a thing), before the internet, but not today. According to NAR statistics over 87% of buyers now find their home on the internet. Newspaper ads are almost a thing of the past. Well, why not do ‘em anyway Stan? OK, let’s examine it closer: We realtors go out, put signs up telling strangers to come to a property, where more than likely the door is unlocked and we are there by ourselves. Come on in we say. Is this intelligent? What can happen? At the very least, would you as a home seller want the possibility that strangers who enter your home could go thru your dresser drawers, or you closet shelves, or your medicine cabinets in the bathroom? Looking for what? Some are searching jewelry, cash or whatever they can find of value to sell, in most cases to feed a drug habit. Now, I’m not writing this to scare anyone, however these are the facts. It happens daily around the country. Worse, every year a few realtors are beaten and mugged or lose their lives (yes murdered) performing this foolish and unnecessary function. If I’ve offended the realtor community, my apologies as it wasn’t my intent. However, I felt the need to explain the purpose of the practice and the pitfalls and why I choose to use different methods to get properties sold. This may illicit a few angry comments from the real estate community, and if it does, so be it. Certainly not the intent here. If you want to discuss, just dial the phone…if I’m awake I’ll pick up.
Realty Times Reports and Dallas Times Reports for related stories

Scoble, the blog and the world?

2006-07-02T20:29:00.000-07:00

Ok, the recap this week in the blog world and how it relates to Real Estate. Myself, being new to blogging (just since the beginning of May this year) I really must confess I had no idea that the internet bloggers had such a following. Also, I hadn't a clue as to the incredible power of the internet. Now, all you geeks and geek goddesses out there are aware of this stuff, but myself, I’m just an everyday, semi-but-not-too techie realtor with little experience into the wide, wide world of internet geekdom. So Monday, we list the home, get the photographer out, do the virtual tour, link it to both the multiple listing service, my site & my blog, etc. I then send the link innocently to Robert and Maryam, as all sellers like to see how the tour of their beloved castle turns out. Robert was kind to post the link to his blog along with a few kind words of my blog. Very nice I thought, how cool is that? I’m sure this way at least a few extra folks will be able to view the Scoble’s home. Man, what an understatement, as from then on all web hell broke loose. The links below will tell a bit of the story and the summary of all this is that as of 9:00AM this morning well over 7,000 visitors have looked at the virtual tour in less then a weeks time. Now you ask… Is that a lot of viewings? Let’s just say, the most visitors ever to view a virtual tour of one of my listings over a full months time was 1/10th of that number, and this all happened in less than a week. As I mentioned to Robert and Maryam after the shockwaves were settling down… 'You guys are rock stars of the internet blog world...thanks for having me along for the ride and hanging onto your coattails'. Now let's go get this home sold and closed so you can get to the promised land. Some of the following links may tell a better story:

Scoble’s Blog

features links to Valley Wag and Zillow Blog

Inman News

Big Bucks Have Landed In Bellevue!

2006-06-27T21:32:00.000-07:00

Not what you expected is it? Yep there are 26 of these babies scattered all over the streets of Downtown Bellevue. What for you ask? Bellevue is on PACE for a Performing Arts Center on the Eastside, so PACE as it’s known started this fund raiser awareness centered around these life-size Buck’s (male deer). Pacific NW artists after an extensive selection process transformed the herd of ‘naked Bucks’ into what you see today. These gorgeous creatures will be auctioned to locals to raise additional funding for the Eastside’s 1st and only performing arts center which will feature the best of regional, national and international live theater, musical performances, speakers and dance. To see all 26 full size Buck Beauty’s as well as 40 table top models, please visit Bucks for PACE Enjoy, I know I did!!

It's a sad day...when the call comes in

2006-06-26T18:58:00.000-07:00

It's a sad day when you get the call:
We are moving, come help us sell our home. Sad you say, how can that be? Well, 3 years ago when Robert and Maryam were referred to me as Robert had just started his job at that software company in Redmond, these folks were 'homeless'. The search began, with highs and lows, mostly lows, as Maryam remembers it, we saw close to 45 or 50 homes. Scary times when you're at a new job, a new State, not knowing anyone, not knowing really where to live, with prices escalating daily. Anyway, during that time there is a bond that develops, a lot of anxiety and much joy as well, when after all the struggles, the perfect home is found, the offer accepted (after competing with 2 or 3 other buyers), the structural inspection stuff is negotiated and resolved, then closing and moving day (the photo above is from in front of their new home on closing day, we just got the keys). Smiles all around. Time flies, we delve into our busy lives, some of us 'blogging', (which up until a year ago I had never heard the term), raising children, commuting, doing whatever we do and 'fast forward' all of a sudden 3 years have passed and the call I mentioned happens. How is it sad? Well, the main regret I have in this profession I have chosen to work, is, I bond with folks, think of them often over the years, however the time never seems to work out where we see each other. They are busy, I am busy, you know the story, so when the call comes in it is a sad time as I realize the folks I've helped and bonded with are leaving, which produces the guilt for not staying in contact while they were here. On the happier note, Robert and Maryam have a great opportunity, both going to work for Podtech a Podcasting startup and on that note, I am pleased for them. What they leave behind are pleasant memories for those of us that have had the privilege to know them. They will be missed. Today we proudly but sadly put their home on the market.
It can be viewed at the following link.
The Virtual Tour

Bellevue's Best Burrito!!

2006-06-26T14:09:00.000-07:00

For at least the past decade or so, Lee and Ross ( when they're not ridin' the Harley) have been serving up Bellevue’s (or perhaps the entire Eastside’s) best burrito’s. No frills just fresh ingredient’s (Roast Pork, Grilled Steak, Shredded Beef, Spicy Pork Sausage {my personal favorite}, Shredded Chicken and more, cooked up daily, these tasty hombre’s are made and served as you stand at the counter. This place is faaaantastic. For the really hungry, you may think you can handle the ‘Super’. Go ahead you ex-football jocks our there. Go ahead add the fresh made guacamole and the sour cream too. I dare ya! Give it a whirl. You will enjoy, but highly unlikely you can eat it all. If you do, come back here and tell us about it. Located on Bellevue Way NE at about NE 2nd…it truly is Bellevue’s best burrito secret.

It's one heck of a doorbell!

2006-06-09T18:14:00.000-07:00

There's probably not another like it attached to anyone's front door anywhere. It's actually a ship's telegraph, which I'm told by a few ex-sailors out there, was used by the ship's captains to communicate with other ships at sea. If incorrect...someone please correct me. This home as you will see when viewing the tour has 3 such devises. They actually make an incredible sound. If interested in hearing or seeing in person...we might be able to arrange something?

The Virtual Tour

A room with a view..or 2...or 3..or ????

2006-05-19T21:31:00.000-07:00

Ok...4 hours on the market...For the folks that want brand new everything, quality, lake and mountain views from almost every room in this home and a 10 minute commute to that software company in Redmond. Just click below and check the Virtual Tour. For still photo's that really tell the story you will have to visit the link to my web and see the featured property at the top. This truly is a gem and I'm very pleased to bring it to the Eastside marketplace. You know how to reach me if you'd like to see it. The Virtual Tour

Ford truck or Gourmet kitchen...designer colors are in!

2006-05-17T09:26:00.000-07:00

For a complete Virtual Tour of the above property just released to the market yesterday visit: The Virtual Tour What color is your kitchen?

Thought for the day...Clear Title

2006-05-10T09:09:00.000-07:00

Everyone who has ever bought a house will enjoy this. A New Orleans Lawyer sought an FHA loan for a client. He was told the loan would be granted if he could prove satisfactory title to a parcel of property being offered as collateral.

The title to the property dated back to 1803, which took the lawyer
three months to track down. After sending the information to the FHA,
he received the following reply:

(Actual letter): "Upon review of your letter adjoining your client's loan application, we note that the request is supported by an Abstract of Title.
While we compliment the able manner in which you have prepared and presented the application, we must point out that you have only cleared title to the proposed collateral property back to 1803. Before final approval can be accorded, it will be necessary to clear the title back to its origin."

Annoyed, the lawyer responded as follows (actual letter):

"Your letter regarding title in Case No. 189156 has been received. I note that you wish to have title extended further than the 194 years covered by the present application. I was unaware that any educated person in this country, particularly those working in the property area, would not know that Louisiana was purchased, by the US, from
France in 1803, the year of origin identified in our application.
For the edification of uninformed FHA bureaucrats, the title to the land prior to US ownership was obtained from France, which had
acquired it by Right of Conquest from Spain.

The land came into the possession of Spain by Right of Discovery
made in the year 1492 by a sea captain named Christopher Columbus,
who had been granted the privilege of seeking a new route to India by
the Spanish monarch, Isabella.
The good queen, Isabella, being a pious woman and almost as careful about titles as the FHA, took the precaution of securing the blessing of the Pope before she sold her jewels to finance Columbus' expedition.
Now the Pope, as I'm sure you may know, is the emissary of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and God, it is commonly accepted, created this world. Therefore, I believe it is safe to presume that God also made that part of the world called Louisiana.

God, therefore, would be the owner of origin and His origins date back,
to before the beginning of time, the world as we know it AND the FHA.
I hope you find God's original claim to be satisfactory.
Now, may we have our loan?"

The loan was approved.

Luxury Living for the Northwest's lotto winner?

2006-05-06T18:02:00.000-07:00

So you’re planning on winning the lottery? Yeah…me too! When you check your winning ticket in the morning you’ll be glad you checked this out. It’s indeed one of my favorite properties.

Location – North Bend (About a 45 minute commute to downtown Seattle)
Price - $13,875,000
Year Built - 1992
Living Square Feet – 14,400
Bedrooms - 5+
Bathrooms - 8
Lot Size - 49 acres
Waterfront - 900' frontage
Special Amenities - Commanding view of Mount Si and the Snoqualmie River, a gorgeous pool complete with full kitchen. Shouldn’t every home have a pool with a kitchen? Can you say side by side Subzero’s? Honey, can you please bring me a beer?

For complete listing details and many more photo’s clink the link below. If you have problems…just let me know.
View Listings

This weeks Real Estate Sales Data

2006-05-06T12:28:00.000-07:00

Real Estate Sales data for single-family homes, covering the entire Eastside for the period of May 1st thru May 6th, 2006 as compiled from the MLS:

88 SOLD properties closed--Same week 2005 (186 sold properties)
Lowest sale price $230,000 --$215,000
Highest sale price $6,950,000 --$4,800,000
Average SF. 2,560-- 2,692
Average $ per SF. $287.46 --$224.27
Average Days on Market 66-- 68
Average SP to LP 99% --98.35%
(Sale to list)
Median sale price $625,500-- $499,925

Very interesting #’s this week. Coincidently, there are currently 1546 active single-family listings (or properties for sale) on the Eastside. At that rate it would appear that we have 4.39 months worth of inventory. With an average market time of a little over 2 months it would appear that pricing a property correctly is still an important factor when wanting to sell. Can’t wait to run the numbers next week. Stay tuned.

To inspect or not to inspect? Top 10 most common items found in a Seattle home inspection

2006-05-05T14:43:00.000-07:00

Many wonder…Is it worth the $400 or so that it costs to spend on a home inspection when purchasing a home? Whether it be a brand new home or a resale here are the most common items found on a home inspection:

1) “Cellulose wood debris in the crawl”….What the heck is that? Well, it’s usually wood scraps (the framers threw down there when framing and never picked up) or cardboard left from the pouring of pillars to support the framing posts.

2) “Wood to earth contact”….you got it! Dirt or bark or both up against the wood siding…can cause rot and pest infestation.

3) “Pest infestation”…rats, mice, squirrels, perhaps a carpenter ant or two. Usually fixable by hiring a professional pest exterminator. Hey, the rodents like to have a warm place to go for the winter.

4) “Missing or damaged vapor barrier”:…Still in the crawl space, this is the plastic membrane laying over the dirt in the crawl. Designed to prevent moisture from entering the home through the flooring.

5) “Furnace needing service”…due to missing or dirty filters, dust and dirt present, a burner flame needing adjustment, hopefully not a rusted heat exchanger. Either way a professional HVAC contractor should be hired to evaluate, service, repair or in some cases replace.

6) “Inadequate roof venting and attic insulation”…Most important to correct to extend the life of the roof and to keep the home both warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

7) “Electrical corrections needed”:…GFCI outlets not installed or not working, ‘double-tapped’ breakers in the panel, ‘over-sized breaker’…and various other deficiencies require a visit from your local licensed electrician.

8) Back to the dreaded “crawl space…damp with surface pooling of water”…you got it, with our precip many homes have water entry and an inadequate system to allow the moisture to leave the crawl. Solution in many cases is the deployment of a drainage contractor to install a perimeter drainage system (some cases a sump pump too) to get that ponding out.

9) “Siding deteriorating”…What? Yep, sometimes a siding product or two has problems in our climate. A few different solutions, 1 of which is replacement and repainting. Not a cheap fix.

10) “Roof repair or replacement”. You got it. Depending on the material and whether conditions existed (see item 6 above) that were never corrected, a roof can have a life span of usually between 15 to 30 years.

Many more items can come up in a home inspection. Is it a good idea to spend the money for a home inspection prior to closing on a home purchase? You be the judge.

For more information and some great pictures of things done incorrectly check this out:
http://www.stargroup.com/ResidentialInspections.htm?hnt/index.htm~mainFrame