Real Estate • July 26, 2013

How to Choose the Right Home

by Debi Bloomquist

As the market starts heating up and real estate becomes a popular dinner party topic again, it’s easy to get so caught up in the fever of searching and offers that we forget why we were buying a home in the first place. When you’re hearing about “inventory shortages” and “bidding wars” it’s important not to fall into the trap of settling, buying for the wrong reasons, or even overspending.

When is the “Right Time to Buy”?

I constantly see information out there telling buyers and sellers that it is the “right time” or the “wrong time” to buy or sell a home. Of course you should take things like rising interest rates or rising or falling prices into consideration, but the most important thing to ask yourself is, “Is it the right time for me?” Are you ready to stay in one place for a while? Are you feeling like your employment position is stable? How about your relationship? If you’re barely making ends meet with a job you hate and your relationship with your partner is on the rocks, it’s probably not the time to buy, no matter what interest rates are doing. Having enough money to comfortably afford your home is more important than buying when everyone else is.

What are your values?

Why do you want to buy a house, anyways? Do you imagine yourself spending your weekends working in your yard every weekend? Is your idea of fun tearing apart a bathroom and putting it back together piece by piece? Or are you more interested in a lifestyle, living close to your work and walking to the grocery store? If you love going out with your friends or traveling for long periods, buying a house with extensive landscaping or an endless list of things needing to be remodeled and upgraded is probably not a good fit. Know what kind of life you want to live in your home BEFORE you find a place, and stay true to that as you search.

Find a REALTOR who gets you.

When you’re looking for an agent to help you find a home, keep looking till you find someone you like and trust. Buying a home can be hugely stressful, and being able to have open and honest conversations with an agent who gets you will make the whole process much easier.

Everyone is happy that the real estate market is in recovery and buying a house is an amazing experience. Just make sure you know what you want your home to be FOR YOU and stay true to your own personal American Dream.

Marguerite Giguere is a buyers agent specializing in Downtown Tacoma. She blogs regularly at GetRealTacoma.com.

Home Improvement • Homeowner News • Real Estate • July 24, 2013

HomeWork: Buy new or buy older? Each has its pros, cons

by Debi Bloomquist

Originally published Friday, July 19, 2013 at 8:05 PM
The Seattle Times

The rule of thumb used to be that new homes were more expensive than older homes, but no longer is that always the case.

Q: When buying a home, is it better to buy new or used?

A: For some buyers, an older home holds charm, history and character. For others, the idea of a brand-new home that has never been lived in is much more appealing.

The rule of thumb used to be that new homes were more expensive than older homes, but no longer is that always the case. One reason is that, as land costs have increased, lot sizes have shrunk. And even though material costs continue to climb, today’s construction is cheaper due to engineered woods and the use of drywall instead of plaster.

A potential buyer looking for a home in one of Seattle’s more desirable inner-city neighborhoods will find, on average, larger lot sizes and homes that cost more than entry-level homes in a new subdivision in the outlying areas.

In addition to factors such as commute times and school systems, there are some distinct advantages and disadvantages to consider as you decide whether a newer home or an older one is right for you.

Advantages of older homes

Older homes have stood for decades and sometimes for centuries, weathering many storms. The Seattle area is known for its genuine Craftsman homes built with meticulous attention to detail.

An older home is more apt to have a larger lot size, with room to potentially accommodate a garage or a backyard cottage, depending on local regulations. Zoning changes are much less likely in older established neighborhoods, which reduces the chances that you’ll ever be surprised by how your neighborhood is developed.

An older home may have enchanting design and detail features that aren’t found in a modern house, as well as mature trees and landscaping. And older neighborhoods are often well-developed and may have local coffeehouses and shops nearby.

Drawbacks of older homes

Obviously, you’re likely to have more maintenance-related issues with an older home — unless it has been recently remodeled or upgraded. When considering an older home, ask about the age of the heater, water heater and pipes, as well as the electrical system. You’ll want to know if the home might soon be in need of major repairs or upgrades.

Many older homes in established Seattle neighborhoods have less square footage. It is likely they will have a smaller garage, closets and windows.

Advantages of new homes

In most cases, your warranties ensure that you won’t face major repairs or replacements for at least 10 years. Many of today’s most-popular conveniences are standard with a new home, including built-in dishwashers and microwave ovens, and wiring for security systems and other home technology.

New homes are more energy efficient — they feature insulation in walls, ceilings and floors, as well as double- and sometimes triple-pane windows, all of which help to reduce energy costs.

When buying in a new-home development, there are often several floor-plan choices. In some cases, you have a choice of interior features like cabinets, countertops and paint colors.

Drawbacks of new homes

Most new-home developments have some kind of neighborhood association that restricts exterior appearance and other considerations. It can take years for the vegetation, including shade trees, to mature in a new development.

New houses settle — it happens everywhere, regardless of the type of soil, and can cause cracks in foundations, walls and doorframes.

Perhaps the biggest drawback is the likelihood of a longer commute, since — other than condominiums — most new housing is being built outside of metropolitan areas.

Identifying your top priorities will help determine whether a new home or an older home is the right choice for you and your family.

HomeWork is the weekly column by the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties’ Remodelers Council about home care, repair and improvements. If you have questions about home improvement, send them to homework@mbaks.com.

Home Improvement • Homeowner News • July 19, 2013

3 Easy Ideas for Flower Boxes

by Debi Bloomquist

By Madaline Sparks in Real Simple

Deck the sills with blooms, then enjoy the view.

How to Plant One

Step 1: Prepare the soil. Pour potting mix into a bucket and add water until the soil feels like a damp sponge. Stir in a time-release organic fertilizer, such as Dynamite. For full-sun and shade boxes, add a moisture-retaining polymer, like Soil Moist. Cover drainage holes with coffee filters, then fill two-thirds of the box with the potting mix.
Step 2: Plant the box. Arrange plants, still in their pots, on top of the soil to approximate their positions. Gently tip them out of their containers. Start planting in the center of the box and work toward the sides, adding more soil around the roots as you go. The final soil level should be about an inch below the top of the box.
Step 3: Water lightly. Moisten the base of the plants to settle them into the soil and eliminate air pockets. Add more soil as needed. Place or hang the box beneath the window and water thoroughly until the drainage holes start to drip.

If You Have a Sunny Window

What to Plant

Bright, showy flowers are at their best in a box that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. So go for reliable bloomers in arresting color combinations. In this box: Dusty Miller (Senecio cineraria Cirrus), Calibrachoa (Calibrachoa Superbells Red), Verbena (Verbena Sissinghurst), and Sweet-Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas Margarita).
To add contrast, set the flowers against a backdrop of foliage in a variety of colors and textures.

When to Water

Daily, depending on rainfall and the season. To be safe, water when the soil feels dry an inch down.

How to Maintain

Add a balanced water-soluble fertilizer every two to three weeks for extra growth potential.
If you see spent blooms, pinch them off so the plants can flower more prolifically.

If You Have a Shady Window

What to Plant

Look for shade-happy plants with colorful leaves, like the four vivid varieties of coleus that fill this box (Solenostemon scutellarioides Kiwi Fern, Dark Star, Dappled Apple, and Dark Heart). Play with contrasts in texture and hue. Here, the ruffly maroon-and-coral Kiwi Fern anchors the middle of the box, offsetting the deep purple and apple green foliage surrounding it.

When to Water

Daily during the hottest summer days; the rest of the year, check every few days and water as soon as the soil is dry to an inch below the surface.

How to Maintain

Pinch off new flower spikes and stem tips every two weeks to keep plants looking lush and full.

If You Have Limited Time to Garden

What to Plant

Succulents thrive on neglect. They love to bask in the sun, and they won't dry out, because their fleshy leaves have a built-in water supply. Choose a visually varied composition of succulents with similar light and moisture requirements. In this box, small purple echevaria rosettes (Echeveria Perle von Nurnberg) echo the shape of their giant green aeonium cousins (Aeonium subplanum). Blue chalksticks (Senecio serpens) and green rattails (Crassula muscosa) create contrast, as does a trailing cape ivy (Senecio macroglossus Variegatus) and a black rose aeonium (Aeonium arboreum Zwartkop).

When to Water

Infrequently. Check the soil every two weeks, and reach for the watering can when the soil is completely dry.

How to Maintain

Make sure to use a fast-draining, soilless potting mix designed for succulents and cacti.

Real Estate • Uncategorized • July 18, 2013

Home Inspection: a Reality Check from a Pro

by Debi Bloomquist

Posted in Buying by Tara Sharp

For many people, a home inspection is a hurdle that has to be overcome during the process of buying or selling a home. But, in fact, it can be a useful tool for buyers, sellers or anyone who plans to get the greatest possible value from their home.

Find out if the house you are selling has “issues”

When you’re selling a house, a pre-sale inspection can be particularly useful. By uncovering any potential problems your house may have, an inspection can give you an opportunity to address them before your first prospective buyer arrives.

According to Bill Richardson, president of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), “More and more, sellers are obtaining pre-sale inspections. This simple step can allow for better planning and lower expenses in making repairs, add value to the home, and help speed up the process and likelihood of an offer.”

In any market, a pre-sale inspection can give your home a competitive edge. Potential buyers are likely to find the kind of detailed information an inspection provides reassuring—and are encouraged to give your home a closer look.

Get to know a house before you buy it

A home is a major investment and, for many people, the greatest financial asset they have. With so much at stake, it makes sense to do what you can to protect your financial interest. Getting an inspection is a smart, simple way to do just that.

When you make a written offer on a home, insist that the offer provide that your contract is contingent on a home inspection conducted by a qualified inspector. You’ll have to pay for the inspection yourself, but an investment of a few hundred dollars could save you thousands of dollars and years of headaches. If you’re satisfied with the results of the inspection and are assured that the home you’re purchasing is in good shape, you can proceed with your transaction, confident that you are making a smart purchase.

When does a home inspection make sense?

In addition to routine maintenance and pre-sale inspections, there are a number of circumstances in which a home inspection could greatly benefit a homeowner. If you are not sure, here are a few simple questions to ask yourself:

· Was your home inspected when you bought it? If not, an inspection would be beneficial even if your home was a new construction at sale.

· Are you an older homeowner who plans to stay in your home? If so, it makes sense to hire a professional who can inspect difficult-to-reach areas and point out maintenance of safety issues.

· Do you have a baby on the way or small children? An inspection can alert you to any potential safety issues that could possibly affect a growing family, such as mold, lead or structural problems. If mold or lead is present, be sure to rely on technicians or labs with specialized training in dealing with these conditions.

· Are you buying a home that’s under construction? You may want to hire an inspector early on and schedule phased inspections to protect your interest and ensure that the quality of construction meets your expectations.

What doesn’t your home inspection cover?

For a variety of reasons, some homes will require specialty inspections that are not covered by a typical home inspection. A specialty inspection might include such items as your home’s sewer scope, septic system, geotechnical conditions (for homes perched on steep sloes or where there are concerns regarding soil stability) or underground oil storage tank. If you have any questions about whether or not your home needs a specialty inspection, talk to your real estate agent.

Hire a professional

If you decide to hire a home inspector, be sure they’re licensed in your state. They should be able to provide you with their license number, which you can use to verify their status with the appropriate government agency. It’s also helpful to ask for recommendations from friends and family members. Even among licensed and qualified home inspectors, there can be a difference in knowledge, performance and communication skills, so learn what you can before your hire a home inspector to ensure that you get the detailed inspection that you want.

What to ask your home inspector

Ask the right questions to make sure you are hiring the right professional for the job.

What does your inspection cover?

Insist that you get this information in writing. Then make sure that it’s in compliance with state requirements and includes the items you want inspected.

How long have you been in the business?

Ask for referrals, especially with newer inspectors.

Are you experienced in residential inspections?

Residential inspection in a unique discipline with specific challenges, so it’s important to make sure the inspector is experienced in this area.

Do you make repairs or make improvements based on inspection?

Some states and/or professional associations allow the inspector to perform repair work on problems uncovered in an inspection. If you’re considering engaging your inspector to do repairs, be sure to get referrals.

How long will the inspection take?

A typical single-family dwelling takes two to three hours.

How much will it cost?

Costs can vary depending upon a variety of things, such as the square footage, age, and foundation of the house.

What type of report will you provide and when will I get it?

Ask to see samples to make sure you understand his or her reporting style. Also make sure the timeline works for you.

Can I be there for the inspection?

This could be a valuable learning opportunity. If your inspector refuses, this should raise a red flag.

Are you a member of a professional home inspector association? What other credentials do you hold?

Ask to see their membership ID; it provides some assurance.

Do you keep your skills up to date through continuing education?

An inspector’s interest in continuing education shows a genuine commitment to performing at the highest level. It’s especially important with older homes or homes with unique elements.

If you have questions about finding a home inspector, or are looking for an agent in your area we have professionals that can help you. Contact us here.

Economics • Home Finances • Homeowner News • Real Estate • Uncategorized • July 16, 2013

Should I Move or Remodel?

by Debi Bloomquist

Posted inSelling by Tara Sharp
Windermere Blog

There are a number of things that can trigger the decision to remodel or move to a new home. Perhaps you have outgrown your current space, you might be tired of struggling with ancient plumbing or wiring systems, or maybe your home just feels out of date. The question is: Should you stay or should you go? Choosing whether to remodel or move involves looking at a number of factors. Here are some things to consider when making your decision.

Five reasons to move:

1. Your current location just isn’t working.

Unruly neighbors, a miserable commute, or a less-than-desirable school district—these are factors you cannot change. If your current location is detracting from your overall quality of life, it’s time to consider moving. If you’re just ready for a change, that’s a good reason, too. Some people are simply tired of their old homes and want to move on.

2. Your home is already one of the nicest in the neighborhood.

Regardless of the improvements you might make, location largely limits the amount of money you can get for your home when you sell. A general rule of thumb for remodeling is to make sure that you don’t over-improve your home for the neighborhood. If your property is already the most valuable house on the block, additional upgrades usually won’t pay off in return on investment at selling time.

3. There is a good chance you will move soon anyway.

If your likelihood of moving in the next two years is high, remodeling probably isn’t your best choice. There’s no reason to go through the hassle and expense of remodeling and not be able to enjoy it. It may be better to move now to get the house you want.

4. You need to make too many improvements to meet your needs.

This is particularly an issue with growing families. What was cozy for a young couple may be totally inadequate when you add small children. Increasing the space to make your home workable may cost more than moving to another house. In addition, lot size, building codes, and neighborhood covenants may restrict what you can do. Once you’ve outlined the remodeling upgrades that you’d like, a real estate agent can help you determine what kind of home you could buy for the same investment.

5. You don’t like remodeling.

Remodeling is disruptive. It may be the inconvenience of loosing the use of a bathroom for a week, or it can mean moving out altogether for a couple of months. Remodeling also requires making a lot of decisions. You have to be able to visualize new walls and floor plans, decide how large you want windows to be, and where to situate doors. Then there is choosing from hundreds of flooring, countertop, and fixture options. Some people love this. If you’re not one of them, it is probably easier to buy a house that has the features you want already in place.

Five reasons to remodel:

1. You love your neighborhood.

You can walk to the park, you have lots of close friends nearby, and the guy at the espresso stand knows you by name. There are features of a neighborhood, whether it’s tree-lined streets or annual community celebrations, that you just can’t re-create somewhere else. If you love where you live, that’s a good reason to stay.

2. You like your current home’s floor plan.

The general layout of your home either works for you or it doesn’t. If you enjoy the configuration and overall feeling of your current home, there’s a good chance it can be turned into a dream home. The combination of special features you really value, such as morning sun or a special view, may be hard to replicate in a new home.

3. You’ve got a great yard.

Yards in older neighborhoods often have features you cannot find in newer developments, including large lots, mature trees, and established landscaping. Even if you find a new home with a large lot, it takes considerable time and expense to create a fully landscaped yard.

4. You can get exactly the home you want.

Remodeling allows you to create a home tailored exactly to your lifestyle. You have control over the look and feel of everything, from the color of the walls to the finish on the cabinets. Consider also that most people who buy a new home spend up to 30 percent of the value of their new house fixing it up the way they want.

5. It may make better financial sense.

In some cases, remodeling might be cheaper than selling. A contractor can give you an estimate of what it would cost to make the improvements you’re considering. A real estate agent can give you prices of comparable homes with those same features. But remember that while remodeling projects add to the value of your home, most don’t fully recover their costs when you sell.

Remodel or move checklist:

Here are some questions to ask when deciding whether to move or remodel.

1. How much money can you afford to spend?

2. How long do you plan to live in your current home?

3. How do you feel about your current location?

4. Do you like the general floor plan of your current house?

5. Will the remodeling you’re considering offer a good return on investment?

6. Can you get more house for the money in another location that you like?

7. Are you willing to live in your house during a remodeling project?

8. If not, do you have the resources to live elsewhere while you’re remodeling?

Economics • Home Finances • Homeowner News • Real Estate • July 11, 2013

Buying a House: The Cost If You Waited

by Debi Bloomquist

by THE KCM CREW on JULY 8, 2013 · in FOR BUYERS, PRICING

We often talk about the potential cost of waiting to buy a home. Today, we want to look at the actual cost for someone who waited over the last year. We used a 10% increase in house values as prices have gone up by double digits in the country on average. We looked at approximate mortgage rates last year compared to this year. Here is the impact on a monthly mortgage payment (principal and interest):

Economics • Real Estate • July 10, 2013

June Statistical Update

by Debi Bloomquist

Prices continue to rise throughout Snohomish County. County-wide prices are up 18% year-to-date and up almost three percent in the month. The month's supply of inventory increased to 1.4 months, which is still the lowest ever for any June in the last 10 years. If you've been thinking of selling, this may be the perfect time. Contact me so you can find out what's selling in your area.

Everett • Uncategorized • July 5, 2013

2013 Local Summer Concerts

by Debi Bloomquist

Published: Friday, July 5, 2013, 12:01 a.m. in The Herald

Arlington Music in the Park: Free performances, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursdays, Aug. 1 through 22, Terrace Park, 809 Fifth St., Arlington; 360-403-3448, www.arlingtonwa.gov/recreation.Aug. 1: Knut Bell and the Blue Collars

Aug. 8: Darrel Mansfield
Aug. 15: The Ride
Aug. 22: Arlington's Blues Playground
The concerts will conclude from 1:30 to 3 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 31, with Ali Marcus, a Seattle based song writer, at the Arlington Farmers Market at Legion Park.

Bothell Music in the Park: 6:30 to 8 p.m., Fridays, July 5 through Aug. 23 at North Creek sports field No. 3, 11905 North Creek Parkway; www.ci.bothell.wa.us.

July 5: Mach One Jazz Orchestra
July 12: Cherry Cherry
July 19: Spazmatics
July 26: Chance McKinney
Aug. 2: Danny Vernon as Elvis
Aug. 9: DoctorFunk
Aug. 16: Creme Tangerine
Aug. 23: Blues Power Revue (Blues Brothers tribute)

Bumbershoot: End-of-summer arts and music showcase, Aug. 31 through Sept. 2, Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St.; details at www.bumbershoot.org.

Chateau Ste. Michelle Summer Concert Series: Outdoor concerts, Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, 14111 NE 145th St., Woodinville. Tickets at wine shop or through Ticketmaster, 800-745-3000; www.ticketmaster.com. 7 p.m. showtimes unless otherwise noted. Details at www.ste-michelle. com.

June 15: Live Broadcast: A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor, 2:45 p.m., $50 to $85
June 29: Steve Miller Band, $60 to $110
July 7: "Girls Night Out!" with Pat Benatar, $55 to $85
July 13: Chris Botti, $50 to $80
July 15: Counting Crows with The Wallflowers, 6:30 p.m., $70 to $110
July 18: David Byrne and St. Vincent, $70 to $95
July 27: Chateau Ste. Michelle Festival of Jazz Sax, 4 p.m., $50 to $80
July 28: Gipsy Kings, $50 to $90
Aug. 2: Lyle Lovett and His Large Band, $60 to $100
Aug. 8: Gladys Knight and The O'Jays: Family Reunion, $60 to $100
Aug. 9 and 10: Harry Connick, Jr., 7:30 p.m., $70 to $120
Aug. 24: Chris Isaak, $55 to $90, VIP available
Aug. 25: 1964 The Tribute (Beatles), see website for details.

Darrington, 13th annual Summer Meltdown Festival: Multiday festival Aug. 9 to 11 at Whitehorse Mountain Amphitheater, 42501 Highway 530, Darrington; Festival admission and camping details at www.summermeltdown.com.

Darrington Bluegrass Festival: 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sunday, July 19 to 21. Darrington Music Park, three miles west of town on Highway 530. Weekend admission $45 before July 1, $50 after plus $25 camping fee per RV or tent. Daily admission is $15 Friday and Sunday, $20 Saturday; ages 12 and younger free with adult; 360-436-1006; www.darringtonbluegrass.com.

Edmonds Summer Concerts in the Park: 3 to 4 p.m. Sundays, July 14 through Aug. 25 at City Park, Third Avenue S. and Pine Street; free; 425-771-0228; www.edmondsartscommission.org. Concerts canceled at 2:30 p.m. in the event of rain.

July 14: The Spyrographs, hits of the 60's
July 21: Seattle Shakespeare Co./Wooden O, "The Tempest" (1 hour, 45 minute performance)
July 28: Gypsy Soul, Americana/pop music
Aug. 4: Around the Sound Community Band, instrumental favorites
Aug. 11: New Age Flamenco, world fusion music
Aug. 18: Smilin' Scandinavians, polka
Aug. 25: The Weavils, bluegrass

Edmonds Hazel Miller Plaza concerts: noon to 1 p.m. for Tuesday shows and 5 to 6 p.m. for Thursday shows; Fifth Avenue S. and Maple Street; free.

July 11: The Whateverly Brothers, vocal folk trio
July 23: Folk Voice Band, international folk songs
July 25: Terry Holder Duo, Americana/folk rock
July 30: Roberto the Magnificent, comedy/juggling stunt show
Aug. 1: Bill Anschell, Brent Jensen & Chris Symer, jazz
Aug. 6: Ali Marcus, singer/songwriter
Aug. 8: Thornton Creek, indie rock
Aug. 13: Rick Huddle, pirate songs and stories
Aug. 20: Jeff Evans, magic
Aug. 22: Scott Lindenmuth, classical guitar
Aug. 27: Toy Box Trio, classical music with a carnival flair
Aug. 29: Alma y Azucar, diverse Latin standards

Everett Children's Concert Series: Free outdoor shows, 10 to 11 a.m. Thursdays, July 11 through Aug. 22, Thornton A. Sullivan Park, 11405 Silver Lake Road; enjoyeverett.org.

July 11: Not-Its! danceable hits
July 18: Tim Noah, Emmy-winning northwest favorite
July 25: Caspar Babypants, toe-tapping tunes
Aug. 1: Eric Herman & the Thunder Puppies, cool tunes for kids
Aug. 8: Recess Monkey, kid pop rock
Aug. 15: Rolie Polie Guacamole, indie tunes for kids
Aug. 22: The Brian Waite Band, rock 'n' roll

Everett Pacific Chamber Orchestra Summer Concert: 3 p.m. June 9 at First Presbyterian Church, 2936 Rockefeller Ave.; 425-743-0255; www. pacificachamberorchestra.org.

Everett Thursday night waterfront series: Free outdoor concerts, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays, June 27 through Aug. 29, Port Gardner Landing, 1700 W. Marine View Drive; enjoyeverett.org.

June 27: The Wild Snohomians, original Americana/roots rock
July 11: LeRoy Bell and His Only Friends, X-Factor finalist, rock'n soul
July 18: Dusty 45s, honky tonk, blues and swing
July 25: Eldridge Gravy and Court Supreme, funk and soul
Aug. 1: Massy Ferguson, rock with a twang
Aug. 8: Ayron Jones & the Way, blues rock trio
Aug. 15: The Randy Oxford Band, trombone blues
Aug. 22: Sirsy, indie rock duo
Aug. 29: Carlos Cascante y su Tumbao, salsa and jazz

Everett Port Gardner Landing Saturday evening waterfront concerts: Free outdoor concerts, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturdays, June 30 through Aug. 25, Port Gardner Landing, 1700 W. Marine View Drive; enjoyeverett.org.

June 29: The Mark DuFresne Band, Americana roots and blues
July 6: The Lucas Cates Band, pop, rock, country, punk
July 13: LoCura, flamenca with funk and salsa
July 20: Yogoman Burning Band, ska, reggae, soul and blues
July 27: Chance McKinney, country/folk
Aug. 3: Luc & the Lovingtons, world music
Aug. 10: Bump Kitchen, blues and funk
Aug. 24: Seattle Women's Jazz Orchestra, jazz, Latin and Brazilian music
Aug. 31: 20 Riverside, rock and hip hop

Everett Port Gardner Landing waterfront Concert: Free outdoor concerts, 2 to 4 p.m. Sundays, June 30 through Aug. 25, Port Gardner Landing, 1700 W. Marine View Drive; enjoyeverett.org.

June 30: Eugenie Jones, soulful jazz
July 7: Dixie Kings, dixie jazz band
July 14: Br'er Rabbit, Americana
July 21: Harmonious Wail, Americana Gypsy jazz
July 28: Impossible Bird, upbeat alternative-folk
Aug. 4: Reilly & Maloney, Northwest folk duo
Aug. 11: Victor & Penny, pop
Aug. 25: Amir Beso, Balkan flamenco fusion

Everett Sets in the West: An emerging artists series, 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays, July 10 to Sept. 11, Wetmore Theater Plaza, 2710 Wetmore Ave., everettmusicinitiative.org, free.

July 10: Shelby Earl with Preacher's Wife
July 17: Kithkin with Pollens
July 24: Hot Bodies in Motion with Panama Gold
July 31: Fly Moon Royalty with Radio Raheem
Aug. 7: Campfire OK with Horde and the Harem
Aug 14.: The Comettes with Candysound
Aug. 21: The Grizzled Mighty with Eternal Fair
Aug. 28: River Giants with Curtains For You
Sept. 9: Mt. St. Helens Vietnam Band with Learning Team
Sept. 11: Head Like a Kite with I Will Keep Your Ghost

Lake Stevens Music on the Lake: Free concerts, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays, July 11 through Aug. 15 at North Cove Park, behind City Hall, 1812 Main St.; 425-334-1012; www.ci.lake-stevens.wa.us.

July 11: Last Leaf Productions: Shakespeare
July 18: Red Desert Ramblers, bluegrass and swing
Aug. 1: Camille Bloom, indie artist
Aug. 8: U.S. Army Cover Band or TBA
Aug. 15: Big Luv Band, classic rock

Langley Concerts in the Park: Free performances, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursdays, July 18 through Aug. 8, Community Park, 5495 Maxwelton Road; concessions available, picnics welcome; 360-221-5484; lineup at www.swparks.org.

Marysville Sounds of Summer Concert Series: 7 p.m. Thursdays, July 11 through Aug. 15 at the Lions Centennial Pavilion in Jennings Memorial Park, 6915 Armar Road; free; 360-363-8400; www.marysvillewa.gov.

July 11: Shameless Hussy, rock and roll, blues
July 18: The Wild Snohomians, roadhouse/Americana
July 25: Kellee Bradley band, singer and songwriter
Aug. 1: Big Luv Band, classic rock
Aug. 8: Jenny and the Blue Moon Boys, Americana soul
Aug. 15: H3O Band, rock and blues

Marymoor Park concerts: Concert series at 6046 W. Lake Sammammish Parkway NE, Redmond. Tickets through 800-745-3000; www.AXS.com; www.marymoorconcerts.com.

June 19: Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley and Stephanie Marley, featuring the Ghetto Youths Crew and The Green, 6:30 p.m., $40.50
Aug. 4: Pink Martini featuring China Forbes, 6 p.m., $45 to $75
Aug. 6: Sublime with Rome, featuring Iration, 6:30 p.m., $39.50
Aug. 10: 107.7 The End's Summer Camp, noon
Aug. 13: Daryl Hall & John Oates, 6 p.m., $45 to $65
Aug. 15: Steely Dan, 6:30 p.m., $55 to $115
Aug. 23: Willie Nelson and Family, 7 p.m., $45 to $65
Sept. 24: Furthur featuring Phil Lesh and Bob Weir, 6 p.m., $59.50

Mill Creek Summer Concert Series: 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays in July and August at The Forum in the Mill Creek Town Center, 15310 Main St.; www.millcreektowncenterbiz.com.

July 3: Cherry Cherry (Neil Diamond tribute)
July 10: Borrowed Time: The Music of Sty
July 17: Ventura Highway, acoustic music of the '70s
July 24: Cascadia Big Band, big band jazz
July 31: Dynamite Limbo, music of the '50s, '60s and '70s
Aug. 7: Just One Look (Linda Ronstadt tribute)
Aug. 14: 3 Miles Hig, alternative rock with electric violin
Aug. 21: Wings N Things: The Music of Paul McCartney
Aug. 28: Sly Mr. Y, rock from the '70s and '80s

Mill Creek Summer Children's Concert Series: Wednesdays, July 24 through Aug. 14 at Library Park, 15429 Bothell-Everett Highway, Mill Creek; free, but non-perishable food items accepted; www.cityofmillcreek.com.

July 24: Brian Waite Band
July 31: Nancy Stewart
Aug 7: Buck and Elizabeth
Aug 14: Tia Quackertunes

Monroe, Evergreen State Fair: Grandstand entertainment, Aug. 22 through Sept. 2. Evergreen State Fairgrounds, 14405 179th Ave. SE.; www.evergreenfair.org.

Aug. 26: The Oak Ridge Boys, 7 p.m. $22 to $32
Aug. 27: Brantley Gilbert, 7:30 p.m., $32 to $55
Aug. 28: 3 Doors Down, 7:30 p.m., $32 to $55
Aug. 29: TBA
Aug. 30: Mercyme, 7:30 p.m., $25 to $37

Monroe MusicFest: 6 to 10 p.m., Sept. 7, Lake Tye Park, 14964 Fryelands Blvd, Monroe; $20, kids 12 and younger free; www.monroemusicfest.com.

Monroe Thursday summer concerts: Lake Tye, 14964 Fryelands Blvd, Monroe; free; www.choosemonroe.com.

July 18: The Hitmen, classics
July 25: Black Vinyl All Stars, rock cover band
Aug. 2: Creme Tangerine, Beatles tribute band
Aug. 9: Cloverdayle, country duo

Seattle Peace Concerts: Free concerts, noon to 6 p.m. Sundays, various Seattle parks; www.seapeace.org. Food bank donations accepted.

June 16: Lower Woodland Park shelter 1, Aurora Avenue N. and N. 59th Street
June 30 and Sept. 22: Gas Works Park, 2101 N. Northlake Way
July 14, Aug. 11 and Sept. 8: Magnuson Park beach area
July 28 and Aug. 25: Volunteer Park, 1247 15th Ave. E.

Tulalip Amphitheatre: Concerts start at 7 p.m., July 6 through Sept. 7; concerts for ages 21 and older; tickets on sale at www.ticketmaster.com or at the Tulalip Resort Casino; www.tulalipcasino.com.

July 6: Go-Go's and B-52's, from $25
July 21: Gretchen Wilson, from $25
July 28: Peter Frampton and Kenny Wayne Shepherd, from $30
Aug. 15: Sammy Hagar, from $35
Aug. 18: Melissa Etheridge, from $25
Aug. 25: Foreigner, from $30
Sept. 7: Doobie Brothers and America, from $35

Shoreline Summer Concerts in the Park: 7 p.m. July 10 through Aug. 28 at various locations in Shoreline; free; rain or shine; www.shorelinearts.net.

July 10: Shaggy Sweet, pop and rock, at Animal Acres Park
July 17: Seattle Shakespeare Company "The Tempest" at Richmond Beach Library Park
July 24: Creme Tangerine, a Beatles tribute band at Cromwell Park
July 31: Downtown Mountain Boys, bluegrass at Animal Acres Park
Aug. 7: Impossible Bird, indie rock, at Richmond Beach Library Park
Aug. 13: Shoreline Jazz Camp Student and Faculty Ensembles, part of the North City Jazz Walk
Aug. 21: Carrie Clark and The Lonesome Lovers, folk and Americana, at Cromwell Park
Aug. 28: Entertainment TBA at Shoreline City Hall Courtyard

The Gorge: Outdoor concerts, Gorge Amphitheatre, 754 Silica Road NW, George. Tickets through LiveNation; 800-745-3000; www. livenation.com. These 2013 dates were confirmed at press time:

May 24 through 27: Sasquatch Festival, check for ticket availability.
June 8: KUBE 93 Summer Jam
June 28 and 29: Paradiso Festival
July 5 and 6: JamBase Live Festival
July 20: John Mayer: Born and Raised Tour 2013
July 26 and 27: Phish
Aug. 2 through 4: Watershed Festival with Toby Keith, Brad Paisley and other country musicians
Aug. 24: Black Sabbath
Aug. 30 to Sept. 1: Dave Matthews band
Sept. 14: Zac Brown Band
Sept. 28: Honda Civic Tour with Maroon 5 and Kelly Clarkson

White River Amphitheatre: Concerts at various dates and times, 40601 Auburn-Enumclaw Road, Auburn; 877-598-6659; www. livenation.com. These 2013 dates were confirmed at press time:

June 15: Vans Warped Tour
June 20: Lynyrd Skynyrd and Bad Company: The XL Tour
June 29: Last Summer on Earth with Barenaked Ladies, other bands
July 3: Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival
Aug. 14: Train: Mermaids of Alcatraz Tour

Zoo Tunes at Woodland Park Zoo: June 23 through Aug. 23; tickets at www.zoo.org/zootunes.

June 23: John Prine, singer and songwriter, $32.50
June 30: Old Crow Medicine Show, Americana string band, $32.50
July 7: Huey Lewis and The News, pop, rock, $39.50
July 17: John Hiatt and The Combo, singer and songwriter, $28
July 24: An Evening with Randy Newman, singer and songwriter, $28
July 26: Leann Rimes, country, $32.50
July 30 and 31: Indigo Girls, folk-rock duo, $28
Aug. 7: Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, jazz, funk, soul and rock, $26
Aug. 11: Todd Snider's Traveling Folk Show, $24
Aug. 15: Loreena McKennitt, singer and composer,$32.50
Aug. 22 and 23: Brandi Carlile, folk, $39.50

Economics • Home Finances • Homeowner News • Real Estate • July 2, 2013

Mortgage Interest Rates: Where Are They Headed?

by Debi Bloomquist

by The KCM Crew on July 1, 2013 · in For Buyers

Today’s $20,000 question is…Where are mortgage rates headed in the near future? Most believe the rapid rise in rates experienced over the last month will not be sustained and that they will level off into a range between 4% and 5%.

When recently asked, Zillow’s director of Mortgage Marketplace, Erin Lantz suggested:

“It is impossible to predict. However, we expect there to be a lot of volatility, probably between 4.5% to 5%.”

In Bankrate.com’s Mortgage Rate Trend Index last week, 20% of the experts said rates would go up this week, 30% said rates would go down and 50% said they would remain unchanged.

What about going forward?

Doug Duncan, chief economist for Fannie Mae recently addressed where mortgage rates may eventually end up:

“I don’t think the Fed ultimately would be troubled with a 6.5% mortgage rate.”

Why wouldn’t the Fed be troubled? They have artificially kept rates low in order to stimilate the economy. As economic indicators begin to show signs of a recovery, the stimulus will be pulled back and rates will rise.

Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac’s VP and chief economist confirms this:

“As the economy continues to improve, we expect to see continued upward movement in long-term interest rates.”

Buckle in!! The rollercoaster ride will probably continue.

Economics • Home Finances • Home Improvement • Homeowner News • Real Estate • July 1, 2013

How to beat the summer heat inside older homes

by Debi Bloomquist

Originally published Friday, June 14, 2013 at 8:01 PM

In an older home, the attic may have little insulation. Over time, what is there may have been disrupted, providing leak points where warm air escapes in the winter and hot air gets in during the summer.

By Jamie Hsu Special to The Seattle Times

HomeWork

Q: Why is my older home so hot?

A: This question comes up a lot, especially with older homes. In most cases, older homes are poorly insulated.

Energy codes have gone through many changes over the years, making homes more energy efficient. A well-insulated home holds in warmth during cold weather and keeps out the heat on hot days.

Current codes require the entire exterior wall cavity to be filled with insulation, including insulated headers over doors and windows, but this has not always been the case.

In an older home, the attic may have little insulation. Over time, what is there may have been disrupted, providing leak points where warm air escapes in the winter and hot air gets in during the summer.

Also, your attic may not have attic venting. Substandard venting leaves the hot air that collects on warm days to take the path of least resistance out, which may be down into the house.

Windows are often another weak point. It is possible your home might still have single-pane windows as opposed to the double and even triple-pane windows on today’s market.

There are several remedies, depending on the design of your home and the budget you have. A good first step would be to consider an energy audit to help you identify problem areas. Some utility companies provide the audits for no or very low cost so it would be worth checking with your local company.

Seattle City Light customers can find information about its audit program at

Puget Sound Energy customers can find information on its website, pse.com/savingsandenergycenter/ForHomes/Pages/HomePrint.aspx .

Some of the steps that can help keep your older home cool:

• Plant shade trees or vegetation to keep the strongest sun rays from heating your home.

• Provide awnings, trellises or other built structures outside to keep the sun from beating down on your windows.

• Consider replacing single-pane windows with double or triple pane with argon/insulated windows to minimize heat transmission. Windows can also be tinted to reduce solar-heat gain. If you choose to replace your windows, an added benefit is you can seal any gaps where leakage might be occurring during installation.

• It is difficult to add insulation to walls, but many times attic space can be easily accessed to blow in additional insulation. Also, attic vents can be installed to help the heat escape, since heat rises and will collect in your attic. Another often effective measure is to install an attic fan that is connected to a thermostat. It will help push hot air out of the attic.

• If exterior doors are the source of your leak, new caulking to seal or weather stripping could help you keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

• Whenever possible, take advantage of cross-ventilation by opening windows on opposite ends of the house to increase airflow. This is especially effective if you keep the house closed during the hottest parts of the day and open windows as the temperatures drop.

• Ceiling fans are effective for circulating the air, but even fans you get at the drugstore can help and they get quieter and more energy efficient every year.

• If you are thinking about getting a window unit or free-standing air-conditioners, try to shop for them offseason before demand and prices spike.

Jamie Hsu, Lakeville Homes, is a member of the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties’ Remodelers Council and provided the information contained in this article. If you would like more information or have questions about home improvement send them to homework@mbaks.com. Sorry, no personal replies. Always consult local codes and contractors.

Marguerite Giguere is a buyers agent specializing in Downtown Tacoma. She blogs regularly at GetRealTacoma.com.

Originally published Friday, July 19, 2013 at 8:05 PM The Seattle Times

The rule of thumb used to be that new homes were more expensive than older homes, but no longer is that always the case.

Deck the sills with blooms, then enjoy the view.

How to Plant One

If You Have a Sunny Window

What to Plant

When to Water

How to Maintain

If You Have a Shady Window

What to Plant

When to Water

How to Maintain

If You Have Limited Time to Garden

What to Plant

When to Water

How to Maintain

What about going forward?

In an older home, the attic may have little insulation. Over time, what is there may have been disrupted, providing leak points where warm air escapes in the winter and hot air gets in during the summer.

Originally published Friday, July 19, 2013 at 8:05 PM
The Seattle Times