Ocean Shores and North Beach Real Estate

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Corner Lot w/ Potential Jetty and Ocean Views for $5K ~ 1401 Tradewind Ave

2012-01-26T12:45:00.001-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Corner Lot w/ Potential Jetty Views

Only $5K!!! POTENTIAL JETTY VIEWS! Build your beach cabin or view house on this Corner Lot and enjoy potential views of the Jetty, Bay, Ocean, Mountains & Westport. You are just a short walk down Trade Wind Ave to the Jetty rocks, so have fun climbing them, go crabbing or just enjoy the wildlife & views. The Wetland Delineation/Map has been completed & paid for (see flags on the property)....Great Potential!!! X-large lot of about 10,000 sq.ft. (per delineation map). Buyer to assume the current balances of the Sewer LID of approx. $1,300 & the Street LID of approx. $4,648. In the Community Club. Div 19A Blk 7 Lot 14. 1401 Tradewind Ave, Ocean Shores.

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Side-by-Side Duck Lake Front Lots ~ Buy 1 or Both ~ 351 and 353 Lake Bay Lp

2012-01-25T15:12:00.001-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Side-by-Side Lots on Duck Lake
Buy 1 or Both ~ 351 & 353 Lake Bay Lp
Lot #97 has a Dock

Side-by-Side DUCK LAKE Front Lots! Buy 1 or buy both for $55K each. PERMITTED DOCK INSTALLED on Lot #97 (351 Lake Bay Lp). These lots are x-large with 180' deep and 64' on the water. Located on a cove of the Duck Lake and in an upscale and quiet neighborhood. Only 1/2-mile from Chinook Park w/ a boat launch on Duck Lake, large ball field, playground and fishing pier (www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/cp.html). Build your house or camp up to 90 days per year. Boat, water ski and fish in beautiful Duck Lake. Sewer LID's PAID. Buyer to assume the Street LID's of approximately $4,183 each lot. Both are "In" the Community Club.

Ocean Shores News: Rare Sightings of the Snowy White Owl in Ocean Shores, WA

2012-01-20T13:10:00.001-08:00

OCEAN SHORES NEWS

Rare Sightings of the Snowy White Owl
Ocean Shores, WA

January 8, 2012 ~ While walking around Damon Pt State Park/Protection Island, I was able to view in person the rare sightings of the Snowy White Owls, which were nesting in the Dunes of Damon Pt State Park/Beach. They were attracted to this dune area because of the lack of population and it is similar to their native habitat. These large and beautiful birds nest in the open spaces of the Arctic Tundra ~ Canada, Alaska and Eurasia. They winter south through Canada and Eurasia, so seeing them this far south is a rare occurrence. The adult male is almost all white, but females and young owls have some dark scalloping. In my pictures below, notice the heavily-feathered taloned feet. Many others were down at the beach enjoying the gorgeous sunny day and taking pictures of these rare sightings of this majestic owl.

Click on Video Tour to see my video of the Snowy White Owls.

See more pictures at www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/snowywhiteowl.html

Ocean Shores News: Snow at the Beach (Yes, Another Snow Storm) ~ January 18, 2012

2012-01-18T20:17:00.001-08:00

OCEAN SHORES NEWS

Another Snow Storm Hits the Coast

January 18, 2012 ~ Another snow storm hit the Northwest today and brings more snow to the Beach. The cold rain, accompanied by the wind, was coming down throughout the day. Ocean Shores received about 6in of snow. It was so beautiful and fun to be out in the 4x4 taking pictures.

See more pictures at http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/winterstormjan2012.html

Ocean Shores News: Snow at the Beach ~ January 15-16, 2012

2012-01-17T14:44:00.000-08:00

OCEAN SHORES NEWS

Snow At The Beach

January 15-16, 2012 ~ Ocean Shores residents, including myself, woke-up to a beautiful sight of snow covering the ground on Sunday and Monday, Jan 15th and 16th. We have had a fairly nice and mild winter this year, but the beach actually saw snow these 2 days. It did melt by mid-day though. We probably received up to an inch of snow. It is reported that we are supposed to get 6-14in. of snow tonight :-)

To view more pictures, please click on the following link: http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/winterstormjan2012.html

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Bell Canal Front Lot ~ Near Beach ~ 332 Otsgeo St

2012-01-12T10:47:00.000-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Bell Canal Front Lot
332 Otsego St

Great Deal for this BELL CANAL FRONT Lot! Enjoy 63' of water frontage on the beautiful & desirable Bell Canal. Located on a quiet & dead-end street. Build your custom home or beach cabin on this approx. 9,000 sq.ft. waterfront lot, or camp up to 90 days/year. Walk to the Beach via the Butterclam St Beach Access Path. Newly paved streets. Lot measures 56.95x150x63.05x150. Buyer to assume the current balances of the Sewer LID of approx. $1,300 & the Street LID of approx. $4,200. In the Community Club. Div 11 Lot 524.

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Ocean and Jetty View Timeshare ~ 3 BD, 2.75 BA, 1490 ASF ~ Atlantic Avenue #3-Wk H

2012-01-11T16:23:00.001-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Ocean & Jetty View Timeshare
Great Location ~ just across the street from the Beach & Jetty

OCEAN & JETTY VIEW TIMESHARE! Townhouse-style featuring 3 BD, 2.75 BA, 1490 ASF, 1-car Gar. Tastefully decorated w/updated furnishings & an Open Great Rm w/vaulted ceilings & fireplace. Newly Remodeled BAs & Kitchen w/slab granite counters. Watch the crashing waves from the Great Rm, Decks & 2 BDs. Take a stroll out to the Beach & climb the Jetty rocks. Extras incl. BD & BA on each floor, 3 flat-screen TVs, Jetted Tub & W/D. 5 wks/yr include: Mar, May, July, Sept, Dec. Trades on RCI. Atlantic Ave#3,Week H

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Treed Lot in Nice Area ~ 410 Snahapish Ave (Next door lot is available too)

2012-01-11T15:56:00.001-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Treed Lot in Nice Area ~ 410 Snahapish Ave
Next Door Lot is Available Too (416 Snahapish Ave)

TREED LOT in NICE NEIGHBORHOOD! Next door lot (#17) available for a chance to own side-by-side lots. Located in the area between the Grand Canal & Duck Lake. Close to the Elem. School & Bill Ellis Park w/picnic area & dock for fishing on Duck Lake. Larger Lot size of 8,400 sq.ft. (70x120). Water, sewer & power in the streets to hook-up to for ease of building. Camp on your lot up to 90 days/yr. Sewer LID PAID. Buyer to assume the current balance of the Street LID of approx. $3,253. In the Community Club. Div 9 Lot 18.

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Partly Cleared and Level Lot ~ In Upscale Area by Bay ~ 251 Olympic View Ave

2012-01-03T14:35:00.001-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Partly Cleared & Level Lot
In Upscale Area of Olympic View Ave
Potential Views

DESIRABLE AREA!!! Partially Cleared & Level Lot located on beautiful Olympic View Ave across from properties that back the Tidelands/Bay/Airport. Great neighborhood of upscale homes. Near the North Bay Park, which has a boat launch onto Duck Lake, tennis courts, etc. Lot measures 75x105. Sewer LID PAID. Needs a pit/valve. Buyer to assume the current balance of the Street LID of approx. $3,300. In the Community Club. Div 23 Blk 6 Lot 7.

North Beach Real Estate: Surfcrest Resort Timeshare ~ 1 BD, Loft, 1 BA, Deck, Patio ~ Lots of Amenities ~ Beach and Creek Frontage

2012-01-02T12:27:00.000-08:00

NORTH BEACH REAL ESTATE

Surfcrest Resort
Ocean Front Timeshare ~ Unit #A6-Week F
Enjoy 8-9 Weeks Per Year

OCEAN FRONT TIMESHARE ~ CORNER UNIT! MOTIVATED SELLER...GREAT $$$! Located at the secluded & private Surfcrest Resort (in between Ocean City and Copalis Beach, WA). FULLY-FURNISHED, END UNIT w/ 1 BD & Loft, 3/4 BA, 650 ASF, Living Area, Kitchen, Spiral Staircase, Propane Fireplace, Private Patio off the living area, & a Private Balcony off the Bedroom w/ Ocean & Dune views. One (1) assigned parking spot plus ample guest parking. This lovely condo/timeshare is spacious enough to accommodate 6 people. GREAT TRADING ability through RCI. Can use up to 8-9 weeks per year.

HOA Dues are $150/mo, which includes all expenses (building & flood insurance, utilities, cable TV, linens, dishes, furniture, etc), & $32.50/mo for the Special Assessment ($182.50/mo total). $50 cleaning fee per week stayed (plus $20 for owners w/ a pet ~ dog and cats only). Some owners near the Lobby have Wifi access (there is a possibility to connect to their modem for a small fee).

The Surfcrest Resort provides visitors a memorable beach experience in a quiet, laid-back environment. The 30+/- Acre Resort has approximately 900 feet of unspoiled Ocean front. The fresh water Connor Creek runs through it adding an additional 1500 feet (approximate) of creek frontage for wildlife viewing and canoeing. In addition to the 54-townhouse units, the resort has a Recreation Building with a Lobby, an adult-only Lounge w/ pool table, deck & fireplace, Game Room, Vending Machines, Restrooms, Saunas, Jacuzzi, and a Year-Round Indoor/Outdoor Heated Pool. Other amenities include a Playground w/ Picnic & BBQ-area, Pet Area, Dock on Connor Creek to launch canoes, Volleyball/Badminton Court, and lots of Trails through the Dunes to the Beach.

For more information and pictures, please visit http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/homes/surfcrestA6.html

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Newer, Well-Maintained Home ~ 2 BD, 1.75 BA, Finished Garage, etc.

2011-12-15T08:10:00.001-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Well-Maintained, Newer Home
On Cul-De-Sac w/ Greenbelt in Back for Added Privacy

NEWER & WELL-KEPT BEACH CABIN! This IMMACULATE home built in 2005 features 2 BD, 1.75 BA, 988 ASF. Open Great Room w/Vaulted Ceilings & Ceiling Fan. Dining Area & Kitchen w/Maple Cabinets, SS Appliances, Tile Counters & Lg. Pantry Closet. Lovely touches w/ wood-wrapped windows & arch hallway. Finished 2-car Garage w/built-in cabinets. New 12'x8' Shed. Covered Front Deck & Rear Concrete Patio. Located on a quiet cul-de-sac w/ a Greenbelt in the rear for added privacy. Street LID PAID! Short Sale.

Ocean Shores Real Estate: The DEAL for a Jetty View Building Lot ~ Only $10K ~ 447 W. Wind St

2011-11-08T14:26:00.001-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Jetty View Lot
447 W. Wind St

This is the Deal you have been looking for...LEVEL JETTY VIEW LOT! So close to the Jetty....watch & hear the waves crash upon the beach & rocks. Take a short stroll to the Jetty and Beach. Mostly Level, Larger Jetty Area lot of approx. 8,200 sq.ft. Rear of the lot faces South towards the Jetty. Sewer LID PAID. Buyer to assume the current balance of the Street LID of approx. $4,648. In the Community Club.

Ocean Shores News: Street LID Update ~ November 5, 2011

2011-11-05T16:16:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES NEWS

STREET LID UPDATE

November 2011 ~ If you are an Ocean Shores property owner and you have not paid off your Street LID, please look for the first bill to come in the mail this month (address is from LID Public Finance). If you have not received a bill, please let me know and I can possibly help determine the reason (it might be because you moved and did not provide the County Assessor with your new address). The first yearly payment will be around $400-600, depending on your original assessment.

You can see more info on my web site at http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/ and see more info about the Street LID at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/news/StreetLID.html.

If you have any questions, please call or e-mail me.

Ocean Shores Newsletter for Real Estate, Events, News, etc. ~ October 2011

2011-10-26T13:20:00.001-07:00

October 2011
Ocean Shores/North Beach
Newsletter
Presented by April Swenson,
CRS, Realtor & Managing Broker for Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties
aswenson25@juno.com 360-589-2777 cell/text www.OceanShoresInfo.com

NOTABLE NEWS/EVENTS

WHALE OF A QUILT SHOW 2011

This yearly event was held on the weekend of September 30th-October 2nd. Lots of quilts were on display, as well as tips and demonstrations, vendors, and voting on your favorite quilt.

YOUTUBE VIDEOS UPLOADED

I have been working on my YouTube site featuring videos of all of my listings, as well as videos selling Ocean Shores. You can see my channel at http://www.youtube.com/user/aprilswenson. Click on the following links to view videos of Ocean Shores:

Duck Lake: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_qldgCRyOw

Bayou Canal: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=au4fmSPSw5Q

Grand Canal: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXUs0qaku0o

The Jetty: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JKpYJe9bWE

WEATHER STATION INSTALLED

The new Weather Station was dedicated/opened on September 29th in Copalis Beach, being dedicated as the Langley Hill Doppler Radar Station. Senator Maria Cantwell and Congressman Norm Dicks worked together to secure $9 million in federal funding. Cantwell said the station’s dual polarization is “the first in the nation to have this kind of technology . . . America wants more information so they can prepare, and today we’re ushering that in, in Grays Harbor County.” Dicks said, “This will protect people, and save lives.”

CRAB BOAT BEACHED

On September 21st at approximately 5:25 PM, a 50 foot commercial fishing vessel ran aground on the beach between the Ocean Lake Way and Taurus Beach Approach in Ocean Shores. Ocean Shores Surf Rescue Team was dispatched after being notified by the Coast Guard of the vessel in distress. Three crew members were rescued off the vessel by the Ocean Shores Surf Rescue Team and none of the crew from the vessel suffered any injures. The three crew members were two deck hands ages 31, 46, and the captain of the vessel a 43 year old Ilwaco male. According to the Captain of the vessel, they were attempting to locate the bar in order to return to Westport when the fog became extremely thick. The vessel was attempting to follow another boat but lost sight of it. The Captain of the boat stated that the reduction gear of the vessel then failed causing the boat to lose power and become adrift. The Captain then stated that the boat was adrift for approximately ¾ of a mile before it was caught in the waves just off shore. The Captain of the vessel called in a may day to the Coast Guard but eventually ran aground off the shore of Ocean Shores. (prepared by the Ocean Shores Police Department).
It was removed by the 24th.

OTHER NOTABLE LOCAL NEWS

Burn ban in Ocean Shores, which occurs every Summer, was lifted on October 1st.
Old pilings from a pier long gone at Damon Point were removed on September 28th.
Attention Ocean Shores Property Owners: if you did not payoff your Street LID, look for the 1st bill in the mail this month. This 1st payment will be due in November.

UPCOMING EVENTS

October 21st-23rd ~ Celtic Music Festival: largest Irish music festival on the West Coast.

November 4th-6th ~ Jazz at the Beach: live jazz music held at different venues in town.

November 25th-27th ~ Winter Fanta-Sea Craft Show: holiday hand-crafted items available at the Convention Center.

BUYS IN OCEAN SHORES

Click on the following links to view the MLS flyers for some good deals on properties in Ocean Shores:

MARKET ACTIVITY/UPDATE
(July 1st thru September 30th)

Ocean Shores is still the #1 beach town in the number of sold properties, as well as the top tourist destination along the Washington Coast. The North Beach area has seen a definite increase over last year, mainly due to Seabrook in Pacific Beach.

OCEAN SHORES MARKET:

Click on the following links to view the MLS flyers for sold properties (3rd-quarter of 2011):
Sold Homes
Sold Lots
Sold Condos

3rd-Qrtr 2011	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	255	512	76	4	19	866
Pendings	43	19	7	0	1	70
Solds	45	41	5	0	0	91
Sold Volume	$6.98M	$1.18M	$722K	$0	$0	$8.88M
Sold Median Price	$145,900	$18,500	$189,900	$0	$0
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	240	307	257	0	0

NORTH BEACH (Ocean City to Moclips) MARKET:

Click on the following links to view the MLS flyers for sold properties (3rd-Quarter of 2011):
Sold Homes
Sold Land

3rd-Qrtr 2011	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	96	110	2	0	13	221
Pendings	12	0	1	0	0	13
Solds	6	5	0	0	0	11
Sold Volume	$1.34M	$526K	$0	$0	$0	$1.866M
Sold Median Price	$284,500	$25K	$0	$0	$0
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	199	219	0	0	0

NOTE: All of the above data was pulled from the NWMLS and is not guaranteed.

FINANCING NEWS

POSITIVE NEWS

Interest rates are still very low at around 4-4.5% with 0 points (depending on credit and down payment). Funding is available through FHA, VA, USDA and conventional loans to buy primary and secondary homes in Ocean Shores and the North Beach.

For more help on getting pre-approved/qualified, contact our local lender, The Bank of the Pacific. You can call Carol Warfield, the Vice President Residential Loan Officer, at 360-580-0187 (cell) or e-mail her at cwarfield@thebankofpacific.com.

Once again, if you ever have any questions about Ocean Shores, the North Beach, the surrounding Grays Harbor cities, and/or real estate, please do not hesitate to call or e-mail me.
~ April Swenson

Your Beach Destination Awaits You at the #1 Washington Coast Town!

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Bay View Lot w/ Water and RV Power Installed, Mostly Cleared, Wide Lot ~ 607 Chinook Ave

2011-10-18T14:48:00.003-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Bay View Lot
Water & RV Power Installed
Privacy Hedge Around Cleared Lot
Wide Lot

Ocean Shores Real Estate: All Utilities Installed on this View Property ~ Backs the Game Preserve ~ 1222 E. O/S Blvd

2011-10-17T14:56:00.001-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Water, Power & Sewer Installed
Backs the Game Preserve ~ Potential Unobstructed Views

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Building Lot in Lovely Area by Duck Lake and Bay ~ 578 Blue Wing Lp

2011-09-21T11:34:00.001-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Building Lot in Lovely Area by Duck Lake & Bay
Lake Views

Ocean Shores News: Watch My Video Tours on Duck Lake, the Canals and Jetty in Ocean Shores, WA on YouTube

2011-09-01T20:10:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES NEWS

Video Tours of Great Places in Ocean Shores, WA
On My YouTube Channel

September 2011 ~ Take a look at these videos I shot at great places in Ocean Shores, WA. I hope you enjoy them.

Duck Lake: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_qldgCRyOw

Bayou Canal: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=au4fmSPSw5Q

Grand Canal: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXUs0qaku0o

The Jetty: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JKpYJe9bWE

Enjoy these great places in beautiful Ocean Shores, WA. Boat, canoe, kayak, water ski, fish on Duck Lake and on the Canals. Walk along the beach and climb the Jetty rocks.

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Unique Parcel w/ over 29K sq.ft. and 209' on the Bell Canal (Tract G)

2011-08-17T16:00:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Unique Parcel w/ 209' on the Bell Canal
Located at the Northwest Corner of the Pt Brown Ave Bridge

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Unique Parcel w/ over 22K sq.ft. and Great Bell Canal Views (Tract C)

2011-08-17T15:35:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Unique Bell Canal View Parcel
Located at the Southwest Corner of the Pt Brown Ave Bridge

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Unique Parcel w/ 21K sq.ft. and 138' on the Grand Canal (Tract A)

2011-08-17T14:58:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Unique Parcel (Tract A)
21,000 sq.ft. & 138' on the Grand Canal
Located at the Southeast Corner of the Pt Brown Ave Bridge

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Jetty View Lot ~ Sewer LID Paid ~ 1424 N. Jetty Ave

2011-08-17T14:38:00.001-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Potential Jetty View Lot
Sewer LID Paid

Ocean Shores News: My Listings Are Now Featured On YouTube

2011-07-23T22:53:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES NEWS

April Swenson's YouTube Channel is Now Active

July 2011 ~ I have been working hard to get all of my listings featured on YouTube. I still have more work to do, but please take an opportunity to visit my channel at http://www.youtube.com/user/aprilswenson?blend=21&ob=5

I recommend watching the 4th of July Fireworks videos: http://youtu.be/WQrwlYh4VRY and http://youtu.be/zOAoNFIPFDY

If you have any comments, please send them my way. Please keep checking back for more videos.

Ocean Shores Newsletter for Real Estate, Events, News, etc. ~ July 2011

2011-07-12T18:57:00.000-07:00

July 2011
Ocean Shores/North Beach
Newsletter
Presented by April Swenson,
CRS, Realtor & Managing Broker for Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties
aswenson25@juno.com 360-589-2777 cell/text www.OceanShoresInfo.com

NOTABLE NEWS/EVENTS

INDEPENDENCE DAY 2011

Ocean Shores lit up for Independence Day weekend with tons of fireworks....truly a sight to see. For more pictures and information, please visit www.OceanShoresInfo.com/pics/july4th2011.html

FIVE STAR DEALERSHIPS SAND & SAWDUST FESTIVAL 2011

The wonderful event of sandcastle building and wood carving was held on June 24th-26th. This is personally one my favorite events. See more info and pictures at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/pics/sand&sawdustfestival2011.html

FLAG DAY PARADE 2011

Ocean Shores honored Old Glory through its annual Parade in downtown on June 11th. See more info and pictures at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/pics/flagdayparade2011.html

BEACHCOMBER FAIR 2011

The annual Beachcomber Fair was held at the Convention Center on March 5-6th. See more pictures and info at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/pics/beachcomberfair2011.html

OTHER NOTABLE LOCAL NEWS

The historic Ocean Crest Restaurant is a total loss after an early morning fire on June 20th. However, the Ocean Crest Resort was not damaged at all, thanks to the speedy action of all-volunteer Grays Harbor Fire District 8, first on the scene, within minutes of the call, as well as volunteers from Districts 16 and 7 and the Ocean Shores Fire Department. The owner Sara Owen said: "We will rebuild." The Moclips restaurant, which opened in 1963, was fully insured. Good news is that there were no injuries. Cause of the fire is still unknown.

The City of Ocean Shores is still working on their budget and the City Council has to decide on cuts of $250,000.

GOOD NEWS: Ocean Shores was 1 of the 21 drinking water systems to receive a low-interest loan from the State of Washington via the 2009 American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The City's deep-water aquifer has high concentrations of iron, manganese and nitrogen compounds that cause our water to smell and taste bad. With the $6M low-interest ARRA loan, the City broke ground on a shallow-aquifer water treatment plant that will deliver safe and reliable drinking water. It will sustain 35 to 40 jobs for at least a year.

UPCOMING EVENTS

July 29th-31st ~ Sun & Surf Run: over 2,000 motorcycles and riders come to town.

August 13th-14th ~ Fun Fly in Ocean Shores: watch the colorful kites on the beach.

September 9th-11th ~ Arts & Craft Festival: hand-crafted items displayed at the Convention Center.

BUYS IN OCEAN SHORES

Click on the following links to view the MLS flyers for some good deals on properties in Ocean Shores:

View Lots

Waterfront Lots

MARKET ACTIVITY/UPDATE
(January 1st thru June 30th)

OCEAN SHORES MARKET:

Click on the following links to view the MLS flyers for sold properties (1st half of 2011):
Sold Homes
Sold Lots
Sold Condos
Sold Multi-Family
Sold Commercial

1st-Half of 2011	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	296	472	73	5	16	862
Pendings	29	17	9	0	1	56
Solds	63	62	4	1	2	132
Sold Volume	$9.32M	$1.63M	$509K	$179,900	$524K	$12.16M
Sold Median Price	$139,900	$16K	$130,500	$179,900	$262K
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	229	247	241	117	39

NORTH BEACH (Ocean City to Moclips) MARKET:

Click on the following links to view the MLS flyers for sold properties (1st half of 2011):
Sold Homes
Sold Land

1st-half of 2011	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	46	122	3	1	9	181
Pendings	10	3	0	0	0	13
Solds	21	18	0	0	0	39
Sold Volume	$5.51M	$1.6M	$0	$0	$0	$7.11M
Sold Median Price	$250K	$54,875	$0	$0	$0
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	287	425	0	0	0

SOUTH BEACH (Westport/Grayland/Ocosta) MARKET:

1st-half of 2011	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	138	156	16	1	18	329
Pendings	13	2	1	1	0	17
Solds	27	13	9	1	0	50
Sold Volume	$2.73M	$1.65M	$1.19M	$120K	$0	$5.69M
Sold Median Price	$84,800	$47,500	$125K	$120K	$0
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	310	234	246	691	0

LONG BEACH PENINSULA (Ilwaco to Surfside Estates) MARKET:

1st-half of 2011	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	308	299	38	2	14	661
Pendings	20	9	0	0	1	30
Solds	66	18	5	1	2	92
Sold Volume	$10M	$654K	$886K	$140K	$414K	$12M
Sold Median Price	$120,350	$33,750	$160K	$140K	$207,250
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	265	423	159	30	780

NOTE: All of the above data was pulled from the NWMLS and is not guaranteed.

FINANCING NEWS

POSITIVE NEWS

Interest rates are still very low at around 4.5-4.875% with 0 points. Funding is available through FHA, VA, USDA and conventional loans to buy primary and secondary homes in Ocean Shores and the North Beach.

For more help on getting pre-approved/qualified, contact our local lender, The Bank of the Pacific. You can call Carol Warfield, the Vice President Residential Loan Officer, at 360-580-0187 (cell) or e-mail her at cwarfield@thebankofpacific.com. Interest rates are still very low.

Once again, if you ever have any questions about Ocean Shores, the North Beach, the surrounding Grays Harbor cities, and/or real estate, please do not hesitate to call or e-mail me.
~ April Swenson

Your Beach Destination Awaits You at the #1 Washington Coast Town!

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Top Floor, Ocean View Hotel Studio Condo in The Polynesian

2011-07-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Polynesian Hotel Condo
Great Ocean Views from this Top-Floor Studio

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Great Location and Views of the Jetty ~ 460 W. Wind St

2011-07-09T10:53:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Lot Just a Couple of Blocks from the Jetty
W. Wind St
Sewer LID Paid

Ocean Shores Real Estate: X-Large Lot by Beach and Park w/ LID's Paid

2011-07-09T10:20:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

X-Large Lot by the Taurus Blvd Beach Access Street & Damon Park
Sewer & Street LID's Paid

Ocean Shores Events: July 4, 2011 ~ Fireworks at the Beach

2011-07-08T08:00:00.001-07:00

OCEAN SHORES EVENTS

Independence Day 2011
Fireworks at the Beach

June 4, 2011 ~ Fireworks shot off all along our beaches....it was a site to see! Our beaches were packed and we enjoyed sunny skies. Everything from fountains to high-in-the-sky bombers were lit celebrating our country's birth and independence. You can see my video of some of the action at http://www.youtube.com/user/aprilswenson?feature=mhee#p/a/u/0/zOAoNFIPFDY. See more pictures and info http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/sand&sawdustfestival2011.html

Ocean Shores Events: Five Star Dealerships Sand and Sawdust Festival ~ June 2011

2011-07-08T07:38:00.001-07:00

OCEAN SHORES EVENTS

Five Star Dealerships
Sand & Sawdust Festival 2011

June 24-26, 2011 ~ Ocean Shores was home to sand creators and wood carvers over a weekend with great weather. The annual, and one of my personal favorites, Five Star Dealerships Sand & Sawdust Festival was held with great results in the amount of visitors and the creations made. One of my personal favorite sand creations was "The Exodus," which showed Moses parting the Red Sea....it was very neat. See more pictures and info by clinking on the following link: http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/sand&sawdustfestival2011.html

Ocean Shores Events: Flag Day Parade ~ June 2011

2011-07-08T07:24:00.001-07:00

OCEAN SHORES EVENTS

Flag Day Parade 2011

June 11, 2011 ~ Ocean Shores honored Old Glory in its annual Flag Day Parade through the streets of downtown. There were lots of great floats, ie the TwinStar CU Lady Liberty float, the Habitat for Humanity float, and others. There were also classic cars, Corvettes, fire trucks, tractors and more. Click on the following link to view more pictures and info: http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/flagdayparade2011.html

Ocean Shores Events: Beachcomber Fair 2011

2011-07-08T07:06:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES EVENTS

Beachcomber Fair 2011

March 5-6, 2011 ~ The Beachcomber Fair event was held at the Convention Center. It was a lot of fun. Click on the following link to view more info and pictures: http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/beachcomberfair2011.html

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Motivated Seller for Cleared Ocean Front Lot ~ 365 Sand Dune Ave SW

2011-06-08T12:20:00.001-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Motivated Seller for Cleared Ocean Front Lot
365 Sand Dune Ave SW

Ocean Shores Real Estate: High and Larger Corner Lot Near Jetty

2011-05-03T12:02:00.001-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

High & Larger Corner Lot Near Jetty
Corner of Storm King Ave & N. Portal Lp

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Awesome Price for Corner Lot Near Bay, Clubhouse and Marina ~ 800 Duck Lake Dr SE

2011-02-07T13:21:00.000-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Corner Lot Near Bay, Clubhouse & Marina
Sewer LID Paid
800 Duck Lake Dr SE

Ocean Shores Newsletter for Real Estate, Events, News, etc. ~ "2010 Year-End Review"

2011-01-21T16:08:00.001-08:00

"2010 Year-End Review"
Ocean Shores/North Beach
Newsletter
Presented by April Swenson,
CRS, Realtor & Managing Broker for Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties
aswenson25@juno.com 360-589-2777 cell/text www.OceanShoresInfo.com

NOTABLE NEWS/EVENTS for 2010

KITE FESTIVAL 2010

The kites flew high on the beach of Ocean Shores for June 5th-6th. Held just off the Chance a La Mer Ave (or Shilo) beach access street. See more info and pictures at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/pics/kitefestival2010.html

FIVE STAR DEALERSHIPS SAND & SAWDUST FESTIVAL 2010

The wonderful event of sandcastle building and wood carving was held on June 25th-27th. This is personally one my favorite events. See more info and pictures at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/pics/sand&sawdustfestival2010.html

INDEPENDENCE DAY 2010

Another personal favorite of mine. Tons of fireworks set off on the beaches of Ocean Shores. See more info and pictures at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/pics/july4th2010.html

STREET LID INFO

At the end of October 2010, the City of Ocean Shores passed the final assessments for the Street LID. The pre-payment 10% discount period ended on November 29, 2010. For those who did not pre-pay, the first payment is due this November 2011 and payments are due each subsequent November for the next 18 years at an annual interest rate of 7.25%. As of January 21, 2011, 4,910 parcels out of a total of 13,232 parcels paid off the Street LID (about 37%). See more information at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/news/streetLID.html

OTHER NOTABLE LOCAL NEWS

I earned my Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) designation in December after working on it for the past 3 years. Only about 4% of Realtors have earned this designation.

Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties is the #1 Listing & Selling Office in Grays Harbor County for 2010. Out of the 5 real estate offices in Ocean Shores, Coldwell Banker OBP holds approximately 49% of the market share (volume closed in 2010). (Per NWMLS data)

UPCOMING EVENTS

February 12th-13th ~ Antique & Collectibles Show: held at the Convention Center.

March 5th-6th ~ Beachcombers Fun Fair: exhibits, seminars, Dash for the Treasure or Trash event, etc.

March 19th ~ Razor Clam Festival: chefs compete for the "Best of the North Beach" title; vendors & food booths, etc.

April 8th-10th ~ Photo & Fine Arts Show: artists display their works at the Convention Center.

BUYS IN OCEAN SHORES

Click on the following links to view the MLS flyers for some good deals on properties in Ocean Shores:

2010 MARKET ACTIVITY/UPDATE
(January 1st thru December 31st)

The number of properties sold in Ocean Shores is slightly UP from a year ago (356 properties in 2010 compared to 349 properties in 2009). The numbers are showing that Ocean Shores is still dominating the market for affordability and productivity (# of properties closed) compared to the other beach towns along the Washington Coast.

OCEAN SHORES MARKET:

Click on the following links to view the MLS flyers for sold properties (4th Quarter 2010 - Oct 1st thru Dec 31st):
Sold Homes
Sold Lots
Sold Condos
Sold Commercial

2010 Year-End	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	226	475	149	5	17	872
Pendings	18	16	0	0	0	34
Solds	176	159	17	1	3	356
Sold Volume	$29.77M	$4.44M	$1.9M	$149,500	$602,000	$36.86M
Sold Median Price	$150K	$17,500	$62K	$149,500	$225K
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	219	312	339	667	212

VS.

2009 Year-End	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	174	455	86	3	12	730
Pendings	21	11	6	0	0	38
Solds	179	133	17	4	7	349
Sold Volume	$29.77M	$4.44M	$1.9M	$668K	$2.41M	$41.7M
Sold Median Price	$158,500	$23K	$100,500	$163,500	$169K
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	146	173	204	88	98

NORTH BEACH (Ocean City to Moclips) MARKET:

Click on the following links to view the MLS flyers for sold properties (4th Quarter 2010 - Oct 1st thru Dec 31st):
Sold Homes
Sold Land
Sold Multi-Family

2010 Year-End	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	60	162	1	4	8	235
Pendings	9	6	0	0	0	15
Solds	28	9	2	1	0	40
Sold Volume	$6.87M	$402K	$256K	$125K	$0	$7.65M
Sold Median Price	$177K	$45K	$128K	$125K	$0
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	182	602	524	548	0

VS.

2009 Year-End	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	42	83	???	1	4	130
Pendings	4	1	???	0	0	5
Solds	28	10	0	0	1	65
Sold Volume	$7.16M	$739K	$0	$0	$150K	$8.05M
Sold Median Price	$176,500	$23,500	$0	$0	$150K
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	183	83	0	0	152

SOUTH BEACH (Westport/Grayland/Ocosta) MARKET:

2010 Year-End	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	81	111	17	2	10	221
Pendings	2	1	8	0	0	12
Solds	47	15	22	0	3	87
Sold Volume	$6.27M	$694K	$2.93M	$0	$283,500	$10.18M
Sold Median Price	$118K	$49K	$126K	$0	$120K
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	310	200	185	0	170

VS.

2009 Year-End	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	82	90	34	2	13	221
Pendings	3	1	13	0	0	17
Solds	40	18	17	1	4	80
Sold Volume	$6M	$1.15M	$3.29M	$170K	$1.05M	$11.66M
Sold Median Price	$108,500	$65K	$168K	$170K	$227,500
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	141	182	84	5	345

LONG BEACH PENINSULA (Ilwaco to Surfside Estates) MARKET:

2010 Year-End	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	254	266	24	2	24	570
Pendings	11	6	1	0	0	18
Solds	163	60	20	4	1	248
Sold Volume	$26.4M	$2.46M	$2.79M	$759,500	$690K	$33.28M
Sold Median Price	$145K	$34K	$120,950	$192,500	$690K
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	215	252	613	36	43

VS.

2009 Year-End	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	214	248	42	1	19	524
Pendings	15	5	3	1	1	25
Solds	168	64	14	2	5	253
Sold Volume	$30.2M	$3.37M	$2.1M	$660K	$820K	$37.15M
Sold Median Price	$159,500	$40K	$141,500	$330K	$135K
Avg. Days on Market (solds)	174	204	142	296	459

NOTE: All of the above data was pulled from the NWMLS and is not guaranteed.

FINANCING NEWS

POSITIVE NEWS-ZERO DOWN w/ USDA LOANS

Funding for USDA Rural Development Loan is once again available. This extraordinary government insured financing program makes home ownership possible for many low to moderate income families with no down payment required. Qualified borrowers in selected areas can take advantage of the USDA Rural Development Loan program to get a fixed rate mortgage with ZERO down.

The many benefits of this program include:

Finance up to 100% of the value of the Home

No down payment required

Seller can pay up to 100% of the closing costs

No private mortgage insurance required

Can be used in conjunction with Mortgage Credit Certificates, where available

Can be used with rate buy down programs

To qualify, borrowers must meet all applicable program and lender requirements and the home must meet eligible property requirements (must be your primary home). It is important to note that the guarantee fee has increased from 2.0% to 3.5% on purchase loans and from 0.5% to 2.25 % on refinances. Regardless of the fee increase, this program is still one of the best ones out there for qualified buyers. Ocean Shores/North Beach area is applicable for these loans.

FHA NEWS

Loan limits for both conforming Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans will not change for 2011. For Grays Harbor County, the limit is $271,050.

For more help on getting pre-approved/qualified, contact our local lender, The Bank of the Pacific. You can call Carol Warfield, the Vice President Residential Loan Officer, at 360-580-0187 (cell) or e-mail her at cwarfield@thebankofpacific.com. Interest rates are still very low.

Once again, if you ever have any questions about Ocean Shores, the North Beach, the surrounding Grays Harbor cities, and/or real estate, please do not hesitate to call or e-mail me.
~ April Swenson

Your Beach Destination Awaits You at the #1 Washington Coast Town!

Ocean Shores News: Street LID Update ~ January 21, 2011

2011-01-21T12:23:00.001-08:00

OCEAN SHORES NEWS

Ocean Shores Street LID Update

January 21, 2011 ~ As of this date, there are 4,910 Ocean Shores parcels that have paid off the Street LID in full. This is out of the 13,232 total assessed parcels in Ocean Shores. So, approximately 37% of Ocean Shores parcels have paid off the Street LID.

Also, the City did sell the bonds and property owners with a remaining balance will be charged 7.25% annual interest on the unpaid amount. The first payment is reportedly due in November 2011 and will be paid each subsequent November for the next 18 years. Any property ownercan payoff the full amount at anytime with no pre-payment penalty.

You can see the full story about the Ocean Shores Street LID on my web site at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/news/streetLID.html

Ocean Shores Real Estate: New Lot Listing ~ Bay Views, Shed, Cleared, Fenced on Chenois Ave

2011-01-12T10:24:00.001-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Bay View Lot
Shed, Fenced, Cleared
Great Location Near Park

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Pennsylvania Avenue Timeshare ~ Ocean Front/View, End-Unit, 2 BD, 2 BA, 1200 SF, Furnished

2011-01-05T10:09:00.000-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Pennsylvania Avenue Timeshare #2S-Week A
Ocean Front/View
End-Unit, 2nd-Level
Large Deck, Vaulted Ceilings, Completely Furnished

Ocean Shores News: Happy New Year from the Beach ~ Welcome to 2011 ~ Clam Digging too

2011-01-02T21:12:00.000-08:00

OCEAN SHORES NEWS

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011
CLAM DIGGING TOO

January 1, 2011 ~ The long-standing tradition of clam digging on New Years continued for the late afternoons and early evenings of December 31, 2010 and January 1, 2011. The weather was cold, but absolutely gorgeous with clear skies during the whole weekend. The clouds did role in early evening for the dig on January 1st, but cleared up later that night. I had a nice time being in the cold, crisp air, even if I did get a little wet from a wave while trying to get a clam.

I hope everyone has a prosperous New Year, both professionally and personally.

Special Announcement: April Swenson Earned the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) Designation ~ December 2010

2011-01-02T20:14:00.000-08:00

APRIL SWENSON EARNS THE CRS DESIGNATION

December 2010 ~ April Swenson has earned the prestigious Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) Designation by the Council of Residential Specialists, the largest not-for-profit affiliate of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Realtors who receive this designation have completed advanced courses and have demonstrated professional expertise in the field of residential real estate. Fewer than 38,000 (about 4%) of all REALTORS nationwide have earned this credential.

Home buyers and sellers can be assured that CRS Designees subscribe to the strict Realtor code of ethics, have access to the latest technology and are specialists in helping clients maximize profits and minimize costs when buying or selling a home.

Ocean Shores Events: Merry Christmas 2010 from the Beach

2010-12-25T21:17:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM OCEAN SHORES

View of the Ocean on Christmas Day 2010

I want to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas. May we remember the simple things of life and the reason for the season. May God richly bless your lives.

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Ocean Front/View Lot on the Desirable S. Sand Dune Ave

2010-12-15T11:29:00.000-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Ocean Front/View Lot
Located on the desirable S. Sand Dune Ave

Ocean Shores News: Street LID Update ~ November 9, 2010

2010-11-09T23:53:00.001-08:00

OCEAN SHORES NEWS

Ocean Shores Street LID
As of November 9, 2010

November 9, 2010 ~ As I reported in my last update dated October 27th on the Street LID, the final assessment amounts were approved by the City Council. In the past week and a half, property owners, including myself, have been receiving their notices from the City with the assessment amounts due. I have personally received many calls and e-mails off my web site story on the Street LID from both current clients and other property owners, and there has been a lot of confusion about this poorly worded letter without any contact info. So let me help explain:

The City is offering a 10% discount if you payoff the LID by November 29, 2010. For example, if you owe $3,718.00, then your payment to the City would be $3,346.20.
If you choose to take the financing over the next 18 years, then your 1st payment is due November 29, 2011.
If you take the financing option, and if your payments are late, then you will be charged a penalty of 12%.
You may payoff the assessment amount anytime in the next 18 years (but you will not receive a 10% discount if payment is received after Nov 29, 2010); the payoff amount will be equal to the principal balance plus the interest on the unpaid amount.
Contact Info: City Utility Billing Department -- 360-289-2487 or e-mail Mike Folkers, City Finance Director, at mfolkers@osgov.com.

The City posted a FAQ sheet about the Street LID on November 1st. Click here to view.
In summary, the 10% discount period is good only until November 29th and the City does not know the interest rate, but estimates about 6.25-6.75%. The City does not know the interest rate because the bonds have not been secured yet and cannot be secured until the City knows how much is to be financed. So hence why there is an early discount payoff period; the City wants to finance the least amount as possible.

As part of my commentary on the handling by the City Council, the Mayor Garland French and Ken Lanfear, Public Works Director, of this entire process for the Street LID, here some more points I am adding:

These notices were dated October 22nd and mailed October 29th, yet the 10% discount period started on October 28th.
The City has only provided a 30-day discount period to payoff amounts of about $2,700-$6,000, which is not a lot of time for property owners to scrap together that amount of cash, especially in this economy.
The timeframes operating by the City have been extremely hurried, as pointed out in my previous posts/updates and in my 2 previous bullet points.
Poorly worded notice and no contact info printed.
Many property owners, including many of my own clients, who have contacted me have reported that they have never received any notices prior to this Final Notice.

My previous protests I made known were the following:

Many property owners have reported to me that they never received any correspondence from the City regarding this Street LID over the past 3 years; many sellers found out about this Street LID through me.
The timeframes placed by the City were unreasonably short.
The increased costs of the project with no halt of the project by the City when oil prices went up to $145/barrel in 2008.
The City needed new roads, but the mishandling of the project by Ken Lanfear and the Mayor(s) & the City Council has created an uproar by the property owners that could have been greatly decreased if common sense was applied.

My hope is that we can learn from the mistakes made in this project and not repeat them.

With all of these events that have transpired, how do you feel about the job completed by the City officials? Do you believe they did their due diligence or do you believe they should be brought to task?
If you want to make your questions, comments and/or protests known, please contact the following responsible parties:

Mayor Garland French: gfrench@osgov.com
Public Works Director Ken Lanfear: klanfear@osgov.com
The current City Council: John Lynn, Bob Crumpacker, Peggy Berry, David Creighton, Jackie Farra, Dick Skewis, and Gordon Broadbent
Visit the City's web site at www.osgov.com

I would greatly appreciate if all property owners reading this story would please e-mail me at aswenson25@juno.com and answer the following survey:

1) Did you receive your Final Notice Confirming the Street LID Assessment Role dated October 22nd?
2) Did you receive the letter announcing that there will be a LID Hearing on September 20th?
3) If you made a written protest to the Hearing Examiner by Sept 20th, did you receive a letter dated October 7th about the Findings/Recommendations being filed and having the right to file an appeal?
4) Did you receive any other written correspondence from the City in the past 3 years regarding this Street LID? If so, what were they and dated when?

Ocean Shores News: Street LID Update ~ October 27, 2010

2010-10-27T20:46:00.001-07:00

OCEAN SHORES NEWS

Ocean Shores Street LID
As of October 27, 2010

October 27, 2010 ~ The City Council passed a resolution regarding the Findings & Conclusions to the Street LID on October 21st. Very few changes were made to the original assessment role dated August 1, 2010 (produced by Macaulay & Associates, Everett, WA). You can see the 5-page resolution passed by the City Council at http://oceanshores.fileprosite.com/Documents/DocumentDisplay.aspx?ID=17006. The document named some changes to assessments to 9 property owners who protested their assessments. The City Council also stated that the RCW says that the City can use any method or combination of methods to compute assessments. So yes, the State law does say that, but it does not give the City Council a right to disregard the 900+ protests that clearly stated over and over again, including by me, the incorrect valuation determined by Macaulay & Associates and the inequitable distribution of the LID assessment amounts. But they did anyway, and the bills will be sent out this week to all property owners.

As written in the North Coast News on October 22nd, Art Blauvelt, the City Attorney, stated the following:
This is what will happen if there are no hitches in the publication process:
* Wednesday, October 27 ~ Notice & Ordinance 885 are published (will also be published November 3, 2010);
* The 30-day pre-payment window starts with publication of the Notice, so the 30-day window will start Thursday, October 28th and end on Monday, November 29th.
Every lot owner will be receiving a notice that contains all the payment details. The city will mail the notice to the address of the lot owner as shown on the county treasurer's records. Those notices will be in the mail by next week.
Many lot owners, as part of their protest or recent correspondence, have provided an alternate address to the city, the City will do its best to send another copy of the notice to the alternate address it has been given by the lot owner, HOWEVER, lot owners should make sure their address with the Grays Harbor County Treasurer is accurate. All of the statutes that control this process require the city to use the "address shown on the tax rolls of the county treasurer" for each lot. The City's plan to mail copies to alternate addresses is a courtesy extended to those who, as part of their protests notified the city, in writing, of an alternate address.
From David Thompson, bond counsel:
First installment payment would be due on November 29, 2011.

In summary, the Street LID upfront payment discount period will be October 28-November 29, 2010. The first payments for those who will be on the annual payment plan will be November 29, 2011. All payments are made in arrears, ie the payment due on Nov 29, 2011 is actually for Nov 29, 2010 until Nov 29, 2011.

October 25, 2010 ~ The City made the Hearing Examiner Wayne Tanaka's findings/recommendations to the City Council available online as I reported on October 5th. After reviewing the recommendations/decisions, I received a letter from the City of Ocean Shores in response to the written, and verbal, protest I made on Sept 20th/21st. All property owners who made protests received this letter. It stated that Mr. Tanaka's written Findings, Conclusions & Recommendations Report was filed with the City and was available to be viewed online at www.osgov.com. The letter also stated that I could file an appeal in writing (along with $250) to the City Council. The issue that I have is that the letter was dated and postmarked on October 7th and the City expected us to file the appeal by 5pm on October 15th. I personally did not receive my letter until the 12th. So you can imagine how many people received this letter after the 15th. One would think that the City Council would learn from just a few weeks ago with the September 20th/21st Hearing when many people protested on the lack of time provided to file their initial written protest, which was only 2 weeks. But apparently the City Council did not learn or take heed to the people's expressed concerns/protests, and they gave property owners even less time.

As a side note, I have heard of many property owners who never received the letter(s) from the City, so please make sure your mailing address is correct with the Grays Harbor County Assessor's office by calling 360-249-4121.

Ocean Shores Newsletter for Real Estate, Events, News, etc. ~ October 2010

2010-10-25T08:14:00.000-07:00

October 2010 Edition
Ocean Shores/North Beach
E-Newsletter
Presented by April Swenson,
Realtor & Managing Broker for Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties
www.OceanShoresInfo.com

NOTABLE NEWS/EVENTS

FLAG DAY PARADE 2010

The annual Flag Day Parade occurred on June 12th along the streets of downtown Ocean Shores with the newly paved streets, the new sidewalks, lighting and round-about. See more info and pictures at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/pics/flagdayparade2010.html

SAND & SAWDUST FESTIVAL 2010

INDEPENDENCE DAY 2010

Another personal favorite of mine. Tons of fireworks set off on the beaches of Ocean Shores. See more info and pictures at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/pics/july4th2010.html

DAY of RECORD HEAT

August 14th saw temperatures in Ocean Shores reach over 90 degrees. See more info and pictures at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/pics/hotaugustday2010.html

CRAFT & CAR SHOW 2010

The annual Craft Fair was held at the Convention Center. Nearby was a display of Mustangs. See more info and pictures at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/pics/craft&carshow2010.html

STREET LID INFO

On October 5th, Hearing Examiner Wayne Tanaka submitted his finding/recommendations in regards to the protests to the upcoming Street LID. On September 20th, the City held an LID Hearing at the Convention Center. An incredible 1000+ people were attendance. Why such a large turnout? About 2 weeks prior, property owners received a letter from the City of Ocean Shores explaining what the proposed Street LID (assessment) amount was for their individual property. See the whole story at www.OceanShoresInfo.com/news/streetLID.html

OTHER NOTABLE LOCAL NEWS

Clam Digging Season opened in Ocean Shores on Oct 8th-10th.

My office has two Realtors who have recently joined us: Julie Dessert, a full-time and an active agent since 2005, and Michelle Plumb, an agent since earlier this year. Both positive additions to our office.

UPCOMING EVENTS

October 16th-17th ~ CFA All-Breed Cat Show: learn about a wide range of cats and vote on the "Best of Show."

October 22nd-24th ~ Celtic Music Festival: 7th annual festival featuring over 20 bands playing Irish music.

November 5th-7th ~ Jazz Music Festival: featuring 9 jazz bands.

November 26th-28th ~ Winter Fanta-Sea Craft Show: over 70 arts & crafts booths at the Convention Center just in time for Christmas.

BUYS IN OCEAN SHORES

Click on the following links to view flyers for some good deals for Ocean Shores properties:

MARKET ACTIVITY/UPDATE
2010 3rd-Quarter (July 1st thru September 30th)

The number of properties sold in Ocean Shores is slightly UP from a year ago (101 properties compared to 97 properties).

OCEAN SHORES MARKET:

Click on the following links to view the MLS flyers for sold properties (3rd Quarter--July 1st-September 30th):
Sold Homes
Sold Lots
Sold Condos
Sold Commercial

2010 3rd Quarter	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	236	492	149	6	19	902
Pendings	26	15	1	0	1	43
Solds	42	51	7	0	1	101
Sold Volume	$7.66M	$1.48M	$749,150	$0	$27K	$9.85M
Sold Median Price	$156,200	$23,500	$53,900	$0	$27K
Average Days on Market (solds)	175	287	275	0	212

VS.

2009 3rd Quarter	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	209	541	108	???	???	858+
Pendings	32	9	6	1	0	48
Solds	47	42	7	1	0	97
Sold Volume	$5.56M	$771,350	$384,900	$0	$0	$6.71M
Sold Median Price	$150K	$31K	$70K	$0	$0
Average Days on Market (solds)	159	119	21	0	0

NORTH BEACH (Ocean City to Moclips) MARKET:

Click on the following links to view the MLS flyers for sold properties (3rd Quarter--July 1st thru September 30th):
Sold Homes
Sold Land
Sold Condos

2010 3rd Quarter	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	72	121	4	4	6	207
Pendings	11	5	0	1	0	17
Solds	2	1	1	0	0	4
Sold Volume	$880K	$12K	$7K	$0	$0	$899K
Sold Median Price	$440K	$12K	$7K	$0	$0
Average Days on Market (solds)	314	2418	738	0	0

VS.

2009 3rd Quarter	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Solds	6	1	0	0	2	9
Sold Volume	$1.1M	$27K	$0	$0	$475K	$1.6M
Sold Median Price	$138,750	$27K	$0	$0	$237,500
Average Days on Market (solds)	259	26	0	0	457

MARKET ACTIVITY/UPDATE
2010 Year-to-Date (January 1st thru September 30th)

The number of properties sold in Ocean Shores is UP from a year ago (277 properties compared to 242 properties).

OCEAN SHORES MARKET:

2010 YTD (1/1/10-9/30/10)	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Solds	133	125	16	1	2	277
Sold Volume	$22.95M	$3.7M	$1.8M	$149,500	$252K	$28.85M
Sold Median Price	$150K	$19K	$79,500	$149,500	$126K
Average Days on Market (solds)	206	304	357	667	134

VS.

2009 YTD (1/1/09-9/30/09)	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Solds	126	101	14	1	0	242
Sold Volume	$21.75M	$3.68M	$2.17M	$0	$0	$27.6M
Sold Median Price	$166K	$24,625	$93K	$0	$0
Average Days on Market (solds)	151	180	272	0	0

NORTH BEACH (Ocean City to Moclips) MARKET:

2010 YTD (1/1/10-9/30/10)	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Solds	18	3	2	0	0	23
Sold Volume	$3.67M	$54K	$256K	$0	$0	$3.98M
Sold Median Price	$162,500	$12K	$128K	$0	$0
Average Days on Market (solds)	181	847	524	0	0

VS.

2009 YTD (1/1/09-9/30/09)	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Solds	19	8	0	0	1	28
Sold Volume	$4.05M	$214K	$0	$0	$150K	$4.4M
Sold Median Price	$156,375	$16K	$0	$0	$150K
Average Days on Market (solds)	193	53	0	0	152

NOTE: All of the above data was pulled from the NWMLS and is not guaranteed.

FINANCING NEWS

POSITIVE NEWS

According to the Federal Reserve, households gained $6.3 trillion in net worth in the first quarter from a year ago, and homeowners have regained $1.1 trillion in home equity over the same period.

Funding for USDA Rural Development loans is once again available. The guarantee fee has increased to 3.5% for purchase loans. The guarantee fee for refinance loans has increased to 2.25% on October 1st. Ocean Shores/North Beach area is applicable for these loans.

Another positive factor that has remained relatively consistent is the historically low mortgage interest rates. The low rates, combined with a drop in home prices to what we hope is at or near the lowest point they will go, really can make it an ideal time to buy. This is especially true for buyers who just a few years ago might not have seen home ownership as an affordable option. For example, as economist Karl Case (of Standard & Poor's Case-Shiller housing index) pointed out in the September 1st issue of the New York Times:

Four years ago, the monthly payment on a $300,000 house with a 20% down payment and mortgage rate of about 6.6% was $1,533. Today that $300,000 house would sell for $213,000 (29% drop in price) and a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with 20% down would carry a rate of about 4.2% and monthly payment of $833. In addition, the down payment would be $42,600 instead of $60,000.

FANNIE MAE NEWS

Fannie Mae has announced several changes to its underwriting standards effective June 1st. While most of the changes represent a tightening up of lending guidelines, others may benefit some borrowers:

Interest only loans will change as follows:
- Maximum 70% Loan-to-Value.
- Borrower must have a minimum credit score of 720 and a minimum of 24 months reserves.
- Balloon Mortgages are being eliminated.
- The required waiting period for borrowers to be eligible for a mortgage after a pre-foreclosure, deed in lieu of foreclosure, or a short sale is changing based on the Loan-to-Value (LTV).

Fannie Mae requires all lenders to determine that any new debts incurred by the borrower during the process are disclosed on the final loan application, commonly done by refreshing the credit report just prior to closing.

FHA NEWS

In an effort to raise critical funds to boost its eroding capital, Congress voted in the FHA Reform Act. The following changes are effective October 4th:

The upfront mortgage insurance premium (MIP) has been lowered from 2.25% to 1%. The upfront fees can be paid at closing or rolled into the loan. For example, on a $150K mortgage, the upfront MIP will be $1,500 instead of $3,375, thereby lowering your monthly payment if you roll in the upfront MIP into the loan.

The annual mortgage insurance premium has increased from 0.55%. The annual premium will be 0.85% for new borrowers with at least 5% or greater equity. The MI will be 0.90% with less than 5% equity. The net result will be higher monthly payments for most FHA borrowers. For example, on a $150K mortgage, the MIP per month will be approximately $106.25-$112.50 instead of $68.75.

OTHER NOTABLE LAW CHANGES

As of July 1st, all home inspectors are required to be licensed by WA State DOL.

On September 30th, President Obama signed the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Re-extension Act of 2010, which Congress passed on September 24th. This extends the National Flood Insurance Program until September 30, 2011.

For more help on getting pre-approved/qualified, contact our local lender, The Bank of the Pacific. You can call Carol Warfield, the Vice President Residential Loan Officer, at 360-580-0187 (cell) or e-mail her at cwarfield@thebankofpacific.com. Interest rates are still very low.

Once again, if you ever have any questions about Ocean Shores, the North Beach, the surrounding Grays Harbor cities, and/or real estate, please do not hesitate to call or e-mail me.

Your Beach Destination Awaits You at the #1 Washington Coast Town!

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Ocean Front Lot, 18K sq.ft., Near Beach Access Street

2010-09-27T12:20:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Ocean Front Lot
18,000 sq.ft.
4 Lots North of Pacific Blvd Beach Access Street

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Commercial Lot on the Grand Canal, Mt Olympus Ave, $55K

2010-06-15T10:22:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Commercial Lot on the Grand Canal
919 Mt Olympus Ave, $55K

Ocean Shores Newsletter for Real Estate, Events, News, etc. ~ April 2010

2010-04-27T12:45:00.000-07:00

April 2010 Edition
Ocean Shores/North Beach
E-Newsletter
Presented by April Swenson,
Realtor & Associate Broker for Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties
http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/

NOTABLE NEWS/EVENTS

RAZOR CLAM FESTIVAL

The 4th Annual Razor Clam Festival was held on March 26th and 27th. There were over 4,000 in attendance at the Convention Center and was the most successful out these past four years. But many more came for that weekend's clam dig. See more info at http://www.oceanshores.org/clams.html

ROAD CONSTRUCTION

The re-paving of all of our streets and the construction of the traffic circle is done! There will be a Street LID coming up sometime later this year. The town looks great with the new sidewalks in downtown Ocean Shores, and not to mention the smoother drives around town.

EMS LEVY INFO

On April 27th, local residents will vote on imposing an additional $.35 EMS Levy to help cover the City's budget shortfall. This proposal is an attempt by the City Council and our new Mayor, Garland French, after the citizens voted down the last proposed EMS Levy in November. The proposal will increase the EMS Levy to $2.09/$1,000 assessed value. Garland French, a long-time City Council member, was voted in by the City Council to be the new mayor when Mayor Dean Bunkers retired earlier this year for health reasons.

OTHER NOTABLE LOCAL NEWS

The Leather Place has opened in The Boardwalk Shops of Ocean Shores

Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties has increased its lead as the #1 office for closed sales and the number of active listings in Grays Harbor County (per 2010 NWMLS data).

My office has produced an Ocean Shores/North Beach Real Estate Guide, which is now distributed throughout town.

UPCOMING EVENTS

April 16th-18th ~ Photo & Fine Arts Show: show & competition for prizes.

June 5th-6th ~ Kite Challenge on the Beach: competitions, stunts, displays and more.

June 12th ~ Flag Day Parade: annual parade is held in downtown Ocean Shores and a dance is held at the Convention Center in the evening.

June 25th-27th ~ FiveStar Sand & Sawdust Festival: master woodcarvers, sandcastle competitions, and much more.

BUYS IN OCEAN SHORES

Click on the following links to view fliers for some good deals for Ocean Shores properties:

Homes $150K or Less

MARKET ACTIVITY/UPDATE
2010 1st-Quarter (January 1st thru March 31st)

The number of properties sold in Ocean Shores is UP from a year ago (70 properties compared to 55 properties). This is good news for activity in general.

OCEAN SHORES MARKET:

Click on the following links to view the MLS fliers for sold properties (1st Quarter--Jan 1st thru Mar 31st):
Sold Homes
Sold Lots
Sold Condos
Sold Mutli-Family

2010 1st Quarter	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	216	501	92	3	16	825
Pendings	33	9	2	0	1	45
Solds	29	35	5	1	0	70
Sold Volume	$4.766M	$891,925	$550,250	$149,500	$0	$6.35M
Sold Median Price	$150K	$17K	$62K	$149,500	$0
Average Days on Market (solds)	123	181	149	210	0

VS.

2009 1st Quarter	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	210	538	65	???	???	813+
Pendings	32	9	6	0	4	51
Solds	31	20	4	0	0	55
Sold Volume	$5.56M	$771,350	$384,900	$0	$0	$6.71M
Sold Median Price	$150K	$31K	$70K	$0	$0
Average Days on Market (solds)	159	119	21	0	0

NORTH BEACH (Ocean City to Moclips) MARKET:

Click on the following links to view the MLS fliers for sold properties (1st Quarter--Jan 1st thru Mar 31st):
Sold Homes
Sold Condos

2010 1st Quarter	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	30	101	4	2	6	175
Pendings	5	0	0	0	0	5
Solds	4	0	1	0	0	5
Sold Volume	$812K	$0	$249K	$0	$0	$1.06M
Sold Median Price	$88,500	$0	$249K	$0	$0
Average Days on Market (solds)	217	0	310	0	0

VS.

2009 1st Quarter	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Solds	5	2	0	0	0	7
Sold Volume	$1.63M	$0	$0	$0	$0	$1.68M
Sold Median Price	$88,500	$0	$0	$0	$0
Average Days on Market (solds)	224	193	0	0	0

NOTE: All of the above data was pulled from the NWMLS and is not guaranteed.

FINANCING NEWS

FHA NEWS

Effective February 1st, the FHA has lifted the 90-day resale restriction (the "flipping rule") that made FHA insurance unavailable if the contract of sale for the purchase of the property was executed within 90-days of the prior acquisition by the seller. There is some fine print, but this change opens up FHA financing to bank REOs and foreclosures that need fixing up before resale.

Other news of note:

Effective with case numbers assigned on or after April 5th, FHA borrowers will see their initial mortgage insurance premium increase to 2.25% of the value of the loan; up from 1.75% before.

Another new rule (starting this Summer) will decrease the amount a seller can give a buyer to help pay their closing costs. The maximum amount of assistance will drop from its current level of 6% to 3%.

Why are they doing this? With nearly 40% of all new home loan originations in 2009 done through FHA, the agency is under fire to reduce risk.

For more help on getting pre-approved/qualified, contact our local lender, The Bank of the Pacific. You can call Carol Warfield, the Vice President Residential Loan Officer, at 360-580-0187 (cell) or e-mail her at cwarfield@thebankofpacific.com. Interest rates are still very low.

Once again, if you ever have any questions about Ocean Shores, the North Beach, the surrounding Grays Harbor cities, and/or real estate, please do not hesitate to call or e-mail me.

Your Beach Destination Awaits You at the #1 Washington Coast Town!

Ocean Shores Real Estate: New Lot Listing ~ Treed, Quiet Area, Meadow Ave, $19K

2010-04-22T12:07:00.001-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Treed Lot in Quiet Neighborhood
Near Duck Lake & Downtown
563 Meadow Ave

For more information about Ocean Shores, see my web site at www.OceanShoresInfo.com

April Swenson
Ocean Shores Washington Realtor
Associate Broker, Listing & Selling Agent, Marketing Specialist
aswenson25@juno.com
360-589-2777 cell

Ocean Shores Real Estate: New Listings for Building Lots under $20K

2010-02-10T11:14:00.000-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Building Lots under $20K

552 Meadow Ave:

876 Albion Ave:

For more information about Ocean Shores, see my web site at www.OceanShoresInfo.com

April Swenson
Ocean Shores Washington Realtor
Associate Broker, Listing & Selling Agent, Marketing Specialist
aswenson25@juno.com
360-589-2777 cell

Ocean Shores Newsletter for Real Estate, Events, News, etc. ~ "2009 in Review"

2010-02-02T12:16:00.000-08:00

Ocean Shores/North Beach Newsletter
"2009 in Review"
Presented by April Swenson,
Realtor & Associate Broker for Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties
www.OceanShoresInfo.com

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

I thought I would start out this e-mail with a good laugh. This is what Jeff Foxworthy has to say about living in Washington:
1) If you've worn shorts, sandals and a parka at the same time, you live in Washington.
2) If you know several people who have hit a deer more than once, you live in Washington.
3) If you install security lights on your house and garage but leave both doors unlocked, you live in Washington.
4) If you can drive 75 mph through 2 feet of snow during a raging blizzard without flinching, you live in Central, Southern or Eastern Washington.
5) If you design your kid's Halloween costume to fit over a 2 layers of clothes or under a raincoat, you live in Washington.
6) If driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow and ice, you live in Washington.
7) If you know all 4 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter, and road construction, you live in Washington.
8) If you know more than 10 ways to order coffee, you live in Washington.
9) If you know more people who own boats than air conditioners, you live in Washington.
10) If you stand on a deserted corner in the rain waiting for the "Walk" signal, you live in Washington.
11) If you consider that if it has no snow or has not recently erupted, it is not a real mountain, you live in Washington.
12) If you can taste the difference between Starbucks, Seattle's Best, and Dutch Bros, you live in Washington.
13) If you have actually used your mountain bike on a mountain, you live in Washington.
14) If you think people who use umbrellas are either wimps or tourists, you live in Washington.
15) If you buy new sunglasses every year, because you can't find the old ones after such a long time, you live in Washington.
16) If you actually understand these jokes and forward them to all your Washington friends, you live or have lived in Washington.

2009 NOTABLE NEWS/EVENTS

MERRY CHRISTMAS 2009

Christmas Day was a beautifully sunny and clear day. Click on the following link to view the pictures: www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/christmas2009.html

WINTER STORM 2009

November was hit with the first true Winter storm and it was a spectacular site to watch the stormy waves hit the Jetty. Click on the following link to view pictures: www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/jettystorm2009.html

INDEPENDENCE DAY 2009

The weekend was packed and the beaches lined with cars and people letting off fireworks, including myself. Click on the following link to view pictures: www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/july4th2009.html

SAND & SAWDUST FESTIVAL 2009

This is one my personal favorite yearly events with the sandcastle competitions held in June. Click on the following link to view pictures: www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/sand&sawdustfestival2009.html

FLAG DAY PARADE 2009

One of the largest Flag Day parades in Western Washington was held in June. Click on the following link to view pictures: www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/flagdayparade2009.html

THE BOARDWALK SHOPS of OCEAN SHORES GRAND OPENING

These cute beach-looking condo retail shops opened in April with 4 shops already bought/leased, and another on the way. These shops are located next to the Coldwell Banker/Caffe Amici building. Still a couple left for purchase or lease! Click on the following link to view pictures and more info: www.oceanshoresinfo.com/commercial/boardwalkshops.html

WINDSURFING at DAMON POINT

There was a great site of many windsurfers at Damon Point State Park/Protection Island in January 2009. Click on the following link to view pictures: www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/windsurfers.html

ROAD CONSTRUCTION 2009

This year brought massive road construction, especially in the downtown area. There were many road closures and detours due to the repaving of the streets and the installation of a traffic circle at the intersection of Chance a La Mer and Pt Brown Ave. It is almost complete. They are finishing the concrete curbs and sidewalks and will do plantings in the springtime.

NEW FIRE STATION OPENS 2009

The downtown fire station moved in November/December from their older, smaller building on JK Lewis St to the brand new, over $4.6M fire station on Pt Brown Ave next to the Police Station. It is very impressive.

BUDGET SHORTFALL 2009

In November, Ocean Shores citizens, including myself, voted on the proposed EMS Levy. It was defeated by approximately 69% to 31%. With this defeat, the City found themselves with a shortfall of approximately $1.3M for 2010. So the Mayor and the City Council have had to find ways to balance the budget through layoffs, closing the Library and Interpretive Center, and they are looking into imposing an EMS Tax. The Library is staying open through March for limited hours. Fund-raising is occurring to keep both places open, which is great to see the citizens unite for a common goal.
Many cities and counties, such as ours, are facing budget issues and I do believe there must be stronger and deeper analyses of the City's budget. There are many tough questions to be answered and even tougher decisions to be made. We must move forward with the right business principles and implement them.
The City has moved forward with improvements, such as the much-needed repaving of all of our roads and a nicer, more pedestrian-friendly downtown area. Some more good news is that we are seeing greater numbers of tourists flock here than in 2008. We offer so many attractions, ie the accessible beaches, lakes, canals, parks, a clubhouse, hotels, restaurants, arcades, etc. Not to mention affordable real estate with water, sewer and power available to all properties. This truly is a great place to live!!!! I do!

OTHER NOTABLE LOCAL NEWS

The well-known and established gift shop, The Flying Cats, moved into the north-wing of the Coldwell Banker building in October.

Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties is the #1 listing and selling office in Grays Harbor County for 2008 and 2009 (per NWMLS data).

UPCOMING EVENTS

Tentative Clam Digs, Jan 29-31: dig razor clams on our local beaches.

Antique & Collectible Show, Feb 13-14: over 80 booths, seminars, etc are held at the Convention Center.

Beachcombers Fun Fair, Mar 6-7: beach walks, exhibits, seminars, children's activities, etc.

MARKET UPDATE

Welcome to a new year. My colleagues and I have been extremely busy in real estate. The buyers are out there. It has been surprising to us that this much activity has been occurring in December and January. So I am excited about this new year. Inventories are down, but prices are still low. Click on the links to see some Great Buys.

Homes Under $150K

2009 MARKET ACTIVITY
January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009

OCEAN SHORES MARKET:

	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	174	455	86	3	12	730
Pendings	21	11	6	0	0	38
Solds	179	133	26	4	7	349
Sold Volume	$30.5M	$4.56M	$3.55M	$668K	$2.41M	$41.7M
Sold Median Price	$158,500	$23K	$100,500	$163,500	$169K

NORTH BEACH (Ocean City to Moclips) MARKET:

	Homes	Land	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	42	83	1	4	130
Pendings	4	1	0	0	5
Solds	28	10	0	1	39
Sold Volume	$7.16M	$739K	$0	$150K	$8.04M
Sold Median Price	$176,500	$23,500	$0	$150K

SOUTH BEACH (Westport/Grayland/Ocosta) MARKET:

	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	82	90	34	2	13	221
Pendings	3	1	13	0	0	17
Solds	40	18	17	1	4	80
Sold Volume	$6M	$1.15M	$3.29M	$170K	$1.05M	$11.66M
Sold Median Price	$108,500	$65K	$168K	$170K	$227,500

LONG BEACH PENINSULA (Ilwaco to Surfside Estates) MARKET:

	Homes	Land	Condos	Multi-Family	Commercial	Total
Current Listings	214	248	42	1	19	524
Pendings	15	5	3	1	1	25
Solds	168	64	14	2	5	253
Sold Volume	$30.2M	$3.37M	$2.1M	$660K	$820K	$37.15M
Sold Median Price	$159,500	$40K	$141,500	$330K	$135K

NOTE: All of the above date was pulled from the NWMLS and is not guaranteed.

In conclusion, Ocean Shores/North Beaches provide the greatest selection and lowest prices, plus the most bang for your buck.

FINANCING NEWS

MOVE-UP HOME-BUYER CREDIT

The Worker, Homeownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009 has established a tax credit of up to $6,500 for qualified move-up/repeat home buyers purchasing a principal residence after November 6, 2009 and on or before April 30, 2010 (or purchased by June 30, 2010 with a binding sales contract signed by April 30, 2010).

The buyer(s) must have owned and resided in the same house for at least 5 consecutive years out of the last 8 years prior to the purchase date ("long-term resident"). For married taxpayers, both spouses must qualify as long-time residents.

Repeat home buyers do not have to purchase a home that is more expensive than their previous home to qualify for the tax credit.

The tax credit is equal to 10% of the home's purchase price up to a maximum of $6,500.

The income limit for single taxpayers is $125,000; the limit is $225,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return.

See your tax accountant for more information.

You can read more information at http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/faq2.php#1.

NEW RESPA RULES NOW IN EFFECT

The new year brought significant RESPA changes affecting the Good Faith Estimate (GFE) and the HUD-1 settlement statement. These changes are intended to help home buyers fully understand the costs of loan origination and other settlement services, and protect them from big surprises when it comes time to close.

The new three-page GFE has been designed to help buyers compare costs between different lenders and brokers. It also lays out which charges can change before settlement and which charges must remain the same.

For more help on getting pre-approved/qualified, contact our local lender, The Bank of the Pacific. You can call Carol Warfield, the Vice President Residential Loan Officer, at 360-580-0187 (cell) or e-mail her at cwarfield@thebankofpacific.com. Interest rates are still very low.

Once again, if you ever have any questions about Ocean Shores, the North Beach, the surrounding Grays Harbor cities, and/or real estate, please do not hesitate to call or e-mail me.

Your Beach Destination Awaits You at the #1 Washington Coast Town!

April Swenson
Associate Broker & Realtor, Coldwell Banker Ocean Shores
888-469-3100 office 360-289-3111 fax 360-589-2777 cell
aswenson25@juno.com
www.OceanShoresInfo.com

Merry Christmas from Beautifully Sunny Ocean Shores, WA on the Washington Coast

2009-12-25T12:54:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from Beautifully Sunny Ocean Shores, WA on the Washington Coast ~ December 25, 2009

I took these gorgeous pictures of the Beach & Ocean and the Bay & Olympic Mountains on this beautifully sunny Christmas Day.

I want to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! May we remember the simple things of life and the reason for the season. Christmas Blessings to you all.

God Bless,
April Swenson
Associate Broker & Realtor, Coldwell Banker Ocean Shores
888-469-3100 office 360-289-3111 fax 360-589-2777 cell
aswenson25@juno.com
http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/

Ocean Shores Real Estate: New Lot Listings ~ Interior, Canal, View, Bay ~ $15K to $150K

2009-11-05T13:21:00.001-08:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Check out these New Lot Listings

1) Interior, cul-de-sac lot, near Downtown, the Beach & North Bay Park, $15K: 637 Rainbow Ct
SOLD FOR $15K

2) Interior, around the corner from the Cabana Pool & perkins Pond, $17K: 305 S. Wynoochee Dr
SOLD FOR $14K

3) Cul-de-sac, off Marine View Dr, Greenbelt behind lot, $19K: 256 Otter Ct

4) Backs Airport, Tidelands & Bay, Unobstructed Views, $50K: 354 Olympic View Ave

5) 103' on Lake Minard Canal, Greenbelt behind lot to water's edge, Great View, $60K: 918 Coyote Ct

6) 60' on the Bay, True Bay front, Great View, Mostly Cleared, $150K: 132 Sunrise Ave

Click on the addresses above to view more pictures and info.

For more information about Ocean Shores, see my web site at www.OceanShoresInfo.com

April Swenson
Ocean Shores Washington Realtor
Associate Broker, Listing & Selling Agent, Marketing Specialist
aswenson25@juno.com
360-589-2777 cell

Ocean Shores Newsletter for Real Estate, Events, News, etc. ~ October 2009

2009-10-31T13:14:00.000-07:00

Ocean Shores/North Beach
E-Newsletter
Presented by April Swenson,
Realtor & Associate Broker for Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties
www.OceanShoresInfo.com

Welcome to Fall!

The leaves are falling. We have had some lovely weather, but the rains are back for a couple of days and then clam digging starts this weekend.

CRAFT FAIR 2009

Our annual Craft Fair was held in the Convention Center in September, along with a Mustang Car Display. Click on the following link to view pictures: www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/craftfair2009.html

ROAD CONSTRUCTION 2009

This has been a very trying time for Ocean Shores residents, especially the businesses. With the unwise move of having road construction on our two main streets and main intersections in downtown Ocean Shores, many businesses have felt the economic pinch from the lack of access. But as we face the many detours and road closures here and there, we must keep a good attitude about it all and know that this is a temporary interruption of daily driving. There was a funny posting of a sign by one of the local business saying, "Ocean Shores: Closed Due to Construction"; and another one stating, "We are open when you get around to it." Good, comical signs for all of the detours we face. It will look so nice and be more pedestrian-friendly when it is all done: sidewalks, traffic circle, new roads, curbs, etc.

OTHER NOTABLE LOCAL NEWS

The well-known and established gift shop, The Flying Cats, is moving into the north-wing of the Coldwell Banker building

"Toast The Harbor" Food & Wine Festival has held over the weekend (Oct 10th) at the Ocean Shores Convention Center

Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties is still the #1 listing and selling office in Grays Harbor County (per NWMLS data)

MARKET UPDATE

Summer and the beginning of Fall has seen a continual stream of sales from the 1st and 2nd quarters of 2009. The deals are out there. Click on the links to see some Great Buys.

Homes Under $150K

As of September 30th, there are 32 homes, 9 lots, and 6 condos pending (all of these numbers are up from my last e-mail stating the numbers as of June 30th); and 209 homes, 541 lots, and 108 condos listed for sale (home and lot listings are down from my last e-mail stating numbers as of June 30th). Compared to approximately 310 homes, 758 lots, and 84 condos listed on September 30, 2008. A decrease in listings is a good sign for a more stabilized market.

Here are some Ocean Shores Stats for the 3rd Quarter 2009:

2009 3rd Quarter: 47 Homes closed; average sales price = $172,502; median sales price = $167K; average days on market = 131
Sold Homes (click on this link to view the MLS flyers)
vs.
2009 2nd Quarter: 48 Homes closed; average sales price = $178,681; median sales price = $166K; average days on market = 268

2009 3rd Quarter: 42 Lots closed; average sales price = $37,219; median sales price = $22,250; average days on market = 204
Sold Lots(click on this link to view the MLS flyers)
vs.
2009 2nd Quarter: 37 Lots closed; average sales price = $35,119; median sales price = $25K; average days on market = 269

2009 3rd Quarter: 7 Condos closed; average sales price = $182,357; median sales price = $111K; average days on market = 441
Sold Condos(click on this link to view the MLS flyers)
vs.
2009 2nd Quarter: 3 Condos closed; average sales price = $170,290; median sales price = $103,870; average days on market = 273

Here are some North Beach (Ocean City, Copalis Beach, Pacific Beach & Moclips) Stats for the 3rd Quarter 2009:

2009 3rd Quarter: 6 Homes closed; average sales price = $183,233; median sales price = $138,750; average days on market = 259
Sold Homes (click on this link to view the MLS flyers)
vs.
2009 2nd Quarter: 10 Homes closed; average sales price = $225,680; median sales price = $149,500; average days on market = 117

2009 3rd Quarter: 1 Lot closed; sales price = $27K; days on market = 26
Sold Lot(click on this link to view the MLS flyer)
vs.
2009 2nd Quarter: 2 Lots closed; average sales price = $15,500; median sales price = $15,500; average days on market = 98

FINANCING NEWS

Mortgage Insurance is Now Available for 2nd Homes:

Mortgage Insurance is now available on 2^nd/vacation homes with the following terms:

Purchase or rate/term refinance

Up to 90% loan-to-value

At least 720 credit score

41% or lower debt ratio

Changes to Truth in Lending Requirements:

On July 30th, changes went into effect relating to when the initial Truth in Lending disclosure needs to be given. These changes are part of the Mortgage Disclosure Improvement Act (MDIA) as an amendment to the Truth in Lending Act. While the purpose of the MDIA is to make sure consumers receive cost-related disclosures, the Act may affect the timing of closings in some cases.

Here's a brief summary of the legislation:

The new rules require lenders to provide the initial Truth in Lending (TIL) disclosure or place it in the mail within three business days after receiving a consumer's application for a mortgage loan, and before any fees are collected from the consumer (other than a reasonable fee for obtaining the consumer's credit history).

The initial TIL is also required for loans secured by homes other than the consumer's principal residence, such as a second home.

The delivery or mailing of these disclosures must occur at least seven business days before the loan closes (loan documents signed).

If the annual percentage rate provided in the initial TIL given to the consumer changes more than 0.125%, lenders must provide corrected disclosures, which the borrower must receive at least three business days before signing loan documents.

Pump Up Sales with FHA 203(k) Rehab Loans:

There is little doubt that more homes listed today are in need of repairs. They could be victims of a short sale, a bank repossession or a home owner needing to sell "as is." Whatever the reason, an FHA 203(k) renovation loan can be a great solution.

With an FHA 203(k) Streamline loan, buyers can get up to $35,000 to use for almost any rehab project to make the home more livable and upgrade its systems -- the perfect solution for short sales, bank REOs or properties where the seller won't do repairs required by a lender.

The features:

The loan closes before the work begins.

The buyer has up to six months to complete the repairs or remodeling.

Down payments as low as 3.5%.

Less stringent qualifying requirements than conforming loans.

The ceiling on FHA 203(k) renovation loans has increased to equal the maximum allowable loan amount for the area, so even buyers in more expensive regions can take advantage of this great loan option. Good news -- there are also 203(k) loans available for larger rehab projects (over $35,000).

Clam Dig, October 16th-18th: Ocean Shores beaches are open for the 1st clam dig of the season.

Change Your Clocks, Nov 1st: move your clocks back 1 hour at 2am.

Jazz At The Beach, November 6-8: enjoy jazz bands throughout Ocean Shores.

Winter Fanta-Sea Craft Show, November 27-29: arts and craft booths displayed in the Convention Center.

North Beach Singers Christmas Cantata, December 11-12: Christmas singing choir.

Once again, if you every have any questions about Ocean Shores, the surrounding Grays Harbor cities, and/or real estate, please do not hesitate to call or e-mail me.

Your Beach Destination Awaits You at the #1 Washington Beach Town!

April Swenson
Coldwell Banker Ocean Shores, WA
888-469-3100 office 360-289-3111 fax 360-589-2777 cell
aswenson25@juno.com
www.OceanShoresInfo.com

NOTE: All statistical information is obtained from the NWMLS and is reliable information, but not guaranteed.

Ocean Shores Real Estate: Side-By-Side Duck Lake Front Lots on Cove ~ only $72,500 each w/ Owner Terms Available

2009-09-28T14:23:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

Side-by-Side Duck Lake Front Lots
Buy 1 or Buy Both
Permitted Dock Installed on Lot #97 ~ $65K
Lot #96 is $62K
351 and 353 Lake Bay Lp, Ocean Shores

2009-09-07T13:39:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES WEATHER

Rain Storm on Labor Day Weekend
September 6, 2009

Labor Day Weekend 2009 was met with gorgous sunny weather and a rain storm. The weather forcasters promised a big rain storm on Friday the 4th, but that day turned out to be a gorgeous day, as well as Saturday the 5th. I was showing in the gorgeous weather on Saturday. But the rain did come, but it was accompanied by thunder and lightening. We do not get many storms with thunder and lightening, so it was neat to listen to. A tree fell in my front yard, but it just fell across the road. These pictures were taken from my front porch.

Today is again a beautiful day of sun and partly cloudy with a slight breeze.

Always take a chance to visit my web site for pictures, real estate and other info at http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/

April Swenson
Coldwell Banker Ocean Shores
Associate Broker & Realtor
360-589-2777 cell
aswenson25@juno.com
0 comments • April Swenson ~ Associate Broker & Realtor ~ Ocean Shores Real Estate • September 07 2009 03:20PM

Ocean Shores Real Estate News: PMI is Now Available for Vacation/2nd Home Purchases with less than 20% Down

2009-08-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE NEWS
Mortgage Insurance is Now Available for Purchasing Vacation/2nd Homes with less than 20% Down

Mortgage Insurance is now available on 2nd/vacation homes with the following terms:

1) Purchase or rate/term refinance
2) Up to 90% loan-to-value
3) At least 720 credit score
4) 41% or lower debt ratio

This was not sent out from the MI company as a big announcement, so you are some of the first to know!

Presented By:

Carol Warfield

VP Real Estate Loan Representative

Central Region

300 E Market Street PO Box 1826 Aberdeen, WA 98520

P: 360.537.4044 C: 360.580.0187 F: 360.533.0489
CWarfield@BankofthePacific.com

Visit our website at www.BankofthePacific.com

Writing from beautiful Ocean Shores!

April Swenson

Ocean Shores Washington Realtor

Associate Broker, Listing & Selling Agent, Marketing Specialist

aswenson25@juno.com

www.OceanShoresInfo.com

360-589-2777 cell

Ocean Shores, WA Featured in Canada's The Vancouver Sun: Ocean Shores is One of the Most Popular Places in Washington

2009-08-19T10:39:00.000-07:00

Ocean Shores Featured in The Vacouver Sun
As One of the Most Popular Places in Washington

Our fair beach town of Ocean Shores received some international praise from our neighbor to the north: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. One of the special writers for The Vancouver Sun wrote a piece about Ocean Shores in the Travel Section on January 13, 2009 claiming Ocean Shores as one of the most popular places in Washington. It explained all about Ocean Shores and the fun things to do: hotels, restaurants, shops, games, rides and more. It also went into the history of this peninsula, which was bought for $1M in 1960 and is now assessed of over $670M with about 5,000 full-time residents.

Check-out the full story at http://www.vancouversun.com/travel/Ocean+Shores/1172868/story.html

Writing from beautiful sunny Ocean Shores, Washington!

April Swenson

Associate Broker & Realtor

360-589-2777 cell

aswenson25@juno.com

2009-07-23T13:42:00.000-07:00

Ocean Shores/North Beach E-Newsletter

Presented by April Swenson, Realtor & Associate Broker

for Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties

http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/

Welcome to Summer!

This town has been buzzing with summer activities with the many different events, as well as property sales. This week is calling for sunny skies.

INDEPENDENCE DAY 2009
The weekend was packed and the beaches lined with cars and people letting off fireworks, including myself. Click on the following link to view pictures: www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/july4th2009.html

SAND & SAWDUST FESTIVAL 2009
This is one my personally favorite yearly events with the sandcastle competitions. Click on the following link to view pictures: www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/sand&sawdustfestival2009.html

FLAG DAY PARADE 2009
One of the largest Flag Day parades in Western Washington. Click on the following link to view pictures: www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/flagdayparade2009.html

THE BOARDWALK SHOPS of OCEAN SHORES ARE NOW OPEN
These cute beach-looking condo retail shops are now open with 4 shops already bought/leased. These shops are located next to the Coldwell Banker/Caffe Amici building. Great Deals for Purchase or Lease. Click on the following link to view pictures and more info: www.oceanshoresinfo.com/commercial/boardwalkshops.html

MARKET UPDATE
Summer is seeing an increase in sales from the 1st quarter of 2009. The deals are out there. Click on the links to see some Great Buys.

Homes Under $150K
Homes $150K to $200K
Homes over $200K
Waterfront Homes
Lots Under $20K
Lots $20K to $35K
Waterfront Lots

As of June 30th, there are 25 homes, 9 lots, and 5 condos pending (in escrow waiting to close; but more is pending in the month of July); and 227 homes, 546 lots, and 79 condos listed for sale. Compared to 276 homes, 658 lots, and 74 condos listed on June 30, 2008. A decrease in listings is a good sign for a more stabilized market.

Here are some Ocean Shores Stats for the 2nd Quarter 2009:

2009 2nd Quarter: 48 Homes closed; average sales price = $178,681; median sales price = $166K; average days on market = 268
Sold Homes (click on this link to view the MLS flyers)
2008 2nd Quarter: 55 Homes closed; average sales price = $195,508; median sales price = $162K; average days on market = 188

2009 2nd Quarter: 37 Lots closed; average sales price = $35,119; median sales price = $25K; average days on market = 269
Sold Lots (click on this link to view the MLS flyers)
2008 2nd Quarter: 64 Lots closed; average sales price = $44,771; median sales price = $34,950; average days on market = 277

2009 2nd Quarter: 3 Condos closed; average sales price = $170,290; median sales price = $103,870; average days on market = 273
Sold Condos (click on this link to view the MLS flyers)
2008 2nd Quarter: 6 Condos closed; average sales price = $241,833; median sales price = $201,500; average days on market = 327

1st Half of 2009 Ocean Shores Stats (from 1/1/09 to 6/30/09):
78 Homes closed; median sales price = $159,500; average days on market = 172
7 Condos closed; median sales price = $75K; average days on market = 104
59 Vacant Land closed; median sales price = $27K; average days on market = 156
Compared to 1/1/08 to 6/30/08:
93 Homes closed; median sales price = $175K; average days on market = 144
8 Condos closed; median sales price = $232,500; average days on market = 241
114 Vacant Land closed; median sales price = $35K; average days on market = 173

1st Half of 2009 North Beach Stats (Ocean City, Copalis Beach, Pacific Beach & Moclips) (from 1/1/09 to 6/30/09):
13 Homes closed; median sales price = $174K; average days on market = 127
7 Vacant Land closed; median sales price = $5,025; average days on market = 80
Compared to 1/1/08 to 6/30/08:
8 Homes closed; median sales price = $203,750; average days on market = 176
7 Vacant Land closed; median sales price = $80K; average days on market = 233

1st Half of 2009 South Beach Stats (Grayland, Westport & Ocosta) (from 1/1/09 to 6/30/09):
18 Homes closed; median sales price = $107,500; average days on market = 134
5 Condos closed; median sales price = $200K; average days on market = 140
4 Vacant Land closed; median sales price = $65K; average days on market = 165
Compared to 1/1/08 to 6/30/08:
24 Homes closed; median sales price = $162,150; average days on market = 97
2 Condos closed; median sales price = $545K; average days on market = 47
14 Vacant Land closed; median sales price = $57,500; average days on market = 189

In conclusion, the North Beach areas are still selling, although we are down like everywhere else. But the South Beach area has been hit the hardest. Mainly because Ocean Shores has a lot more to offer, so Ocean Shores is attracting more buyers.

COLDWELL BANKER is #1 in GRAYS HARBOR COUNTY
Another exciting item to mention is the success my office has had this year. We are #1 in closed transactions for number and volume for 2008 and for the 1st half of 2009. Coldwell Banker OBP has sold 30.62% of the market in Ocean Shores; compared to 20.19% by John L. Scott Ocean Shores, 14.91% by Windermere Ocean Shores, 8.43% by Premier Realty Ocean Shores, 3.66% by Prudential Ocean Shores, and 2.36% by Beach Realty. This stat is in terms of volume closed for sales in Ocean Shores (similar percentages in terms of the number of transactions closed).

UPCOMING EVENTS
Sun & Surf Run, July 24-26: hear the roar of the motorcycles come into town.
Arts & Craft Festival, September 11-13: thousands of handcrafted items by artists and craftspeople.
Paddle the Shores, September 19-20: paddle activities on the lakes and canals.

FINANCING NEWS ~ UNDERSTANDING CREDIT SCORING
Whether a person applies for a credit card or a mortgage, lenders want to know their risk. There are three major credit reporting agencies that keep track of consumer credit use and provide credit reports and scores. It is in a consumer's best interest to be aware of their credit standing.

Credit scores are often called "FICO" scores (from 'Fair Isaac and Company').
Credit (or FICO) scores are based on information held by the three credit reporting agencies.
Most lenders use a variety of factors -- including FICO scores -- to make lending decisions. The credit score influences what credit is available as well as the terms (though not every lender evaluates risk the same way).
FICO scores are calculated from a combination of credit data. Approximately 35% of the score is based on payment history, 30% on the amount owed, 15% on how long the person has been using the credit, 10% on applications for new credit, and 10% on types of credit used.
If your client is trying to increase their credit score, they should pay active past due accounts to a current status and pay down outstanding revolving debt as close to zero as possible. If they are unable to pay off accounts completely, they should pay them below 30% of the credit limit and keep new applications for credit to a minimum.

For advice on improving credit, as well as for other great information on credit scoring, check out www.myfico.com/crediteducation/. Every consumer should know what's in their credit report and is entitled to a free copy each year at http://www.annualcreditreport.com/.

For more help on getting pre-approved/qualified, contact our local lender, The Bank of the Pacific. You can call Carol Warfield, the Vice President Residential Loan Officer, at 360-580-0187 (cell) or e-mail her at http://webmaila.juno.com/webmail/new/8?folder=Sent&msgNum=00009NW0:001APqhy0000384a&block=1&msgNature=all&msgStatus=all&count=1248381722&content=central#. Interest rates are still around 5.25-5.5%.

Once again, if you ever have any questions about Ocean Shores, the surrounding Grays Harbor cities, and/or real estate, please do not hesitate to call or e-mail me.

Your Beach Destination Awaits You at the #1 Washington Beach Town!

April Swenson
Coldwell Banker Ocean Shores, WA
888-469-3100 office 360-289-3111 fax 360-589-2777 cell
aswenson25@juno.com
http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/

2009-07-02T14:54:00.000-07:00

June 26-28, 2009 ~ The annual Five Star Sand & Sawdust Festival was held over the weekend and it was a great success. All three days enjoyed sunshine with temperatures in the 60's. A consistent theme for this year's competition was pirates....."Parrots of the Carribean," "Pirates of the Crab-I-Bean," a "Skull," and others. There were some very detailed and awesome works of sand art. The winner of the Master's Division was "Some Assembly Required," which was a view of a workshop of a toy man being put together.

See more on the story and many more pictures at http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/sand&sawdustfestival2009.html

2009-07-02T14:51:00.000-07:00

June 13, 2009 ~ Ocean Shores honors Old Glory by holding its annual Flag Day Parade. It is fun to see all of the people line Pt Brown Ave and W. Chance a La Mer Ave to watch the presentation of our Nation's Symbol by marching bands, politicians, companies, non-profit organizations, and local clubs and citizens.

See more on the story and many more pictures at http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/flagdayparade2009.html

In Honored Memory of Bob McDougal

2009-05-26T13:28:00.000-07:00

In Honored Memory of Bob McDougal -- October 9, 1944 to May 15, 2009. Bob passed away due to complications of cancer. His family was by his side to the end. He is survived by his loving wife Dona, his daughter Carrie, and his granddaughter Lauren.

Bob has been a Realtor since October 2003 in Ocean Shores, WA. I had the opportunity of teaming up with Bob in October 2006, and it has been a great experience. We worked very well together...my strengths and his strengths wielded together to make a well organized and cohesive team. I greatly admired Bob for his business experience and knowledge, his honesty, and commitment to his clients. He will be greatly missed!

I am continuing on with our real estate business.

2009-04-22T13:02:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Spring!

Easter and Spring Break are over and most of the crowds went home. But what a time it was. This town was busy with visitors, property owners, and buyers. Right now, it is beautifully sunny with the coming weekend looking sunny as well. Come join us at the Beach!

VISITOR COUNTS UP BY 9%
With lower gas prices and prime activities such as the Razor Clam Festival and the Beachcombers Fun Fair (held in March), Ocean Shores saw an increase of 9% for the first quarter in 2009 compared to the 1st quarter in 2008. With over 800,000 visitors in January, February and March, businesses and real estate saw increases as well.

MARKET UPDATE
I can personally tell you that activity has increased since the beginning of the year and even more so in March. The rest of the year definitely looks promising and busy. The deals are out there! Click on the following links to see MLS flyers for some Hot Buys.

Hot Buys for Lots under $30K
Hot Buys for Other Lots
Hot Buys for Waterfront Lots
Hot Buys for Homes
Hot Buys for Waterfront Homes

E-mail or call me if you have any questions about these listings. There are some repos on the market, but not as many as Aberdeen, Hoquiam or other Grays Harbor County areas. And of course, these repos need a lot of work. As of April 13th, there are 36 homes, 11 lots, and 8 condos pending (in escrow waiting to close); and 216 homes, 548 lots, and 70 condos listed for sale.

Here are some Ocean Shores Stats:

2009 1st Quarter: 31 Homes closed; average sales price = $179,355; median sales price = $150K; average days on market = 159
Sold Homes (click on this link to view the MLS flyers)
2008 1st Quarter: 37 Homes closed; average sales price = $211,534; median sales price = $195K; average days on market = 143
2009 1st Quarter: 20 Lots closed; average sales price = $38,568; median sales price = $31K; average days on market = 119
Sold Lots (click on this link to view the MLS flyers)
2008 1st Quarter: 50 Lots closed; average sales price = $42,573; median sales price = $35K; average days on market = 193
2009 1st Quarter: 4 Condos closed; average sales price = $96,225; median sales price = $70K; average days on market = 21
Sold Condos (click on this link to view the MLS flyers)
2008 1st Quarter: 2 Condos closed; average sales price = $314,500; median sales price = $314,500; average days on market = 405

NEW CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
For 2008, there were a total of 141 new house permits approved (118 Stick-Built and 23 Manufactured Homes). For the 1st quarter (Jan-Mar) of 2008, there were a total of 38 new house permits approved (30 Stick-Built and 8 Manufactured Homes). For the 1st quarter of 2009, there were a total of 22 new house permits approved (19 Stick-Built and 3 Manufactured Homes). Although our numbers are down, building is still happening all over town. My business partner, Bob McDougal, and I represent one of the premier spec builders in town and you can see their 3 homes that they are building now (click on the following link). The lake front home is almost finished; the small cabin can be completed in about 2 months; and the canal front home is about 1.5 months away from being completed.

Featured New Construction: Brunk Homes

UPCOMING EVENTS
Country Music Jam, May 2-3: a weekend of music and fun with a dance on Saturday night.

Clam Digs:
Saturday, April 25th (7:27 a.m., -1.3 ft.) Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
Sunday, April 26th (8:10 a.m., -1.6 ft.) Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
Monday, April 27th (8:55 a.m., -1.7 ft.) Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks

FINANCING NEWS
I know that there is a lot of misconception out there that the banks are not lending...DO NOT believe it. Our local banks, especially Bank of the Pacific, are lending. Bank of the Pacific has access to 7 different lenders to find the right loan for you. Interest rates are still around 5%. There is other great news: Ocean Shores and the surrounding beach communities are areas which are eligible for the USDA Guaranteed Rural Housing Loan Program. You can finance up to 102% of the appraised value with no monthly PMI (2% PMI paid up front). Upon approved credit and conditions do apply, ie the property must be your primary residence. You can call Carol Warfield, the Vice President Residential Loan Officer of Bank of the Pacific, at 360-580-0187 or e-mail her at cwarfield@thebankofpacific.com. I have worked with her many times and she is very knowledgeable, professional and honest.

Once again, if you every have any questions about Ocean Shores, the surrounding Grays Harbor cities, and/or real estate, please do not hesitate to call or e-mail me.

Your Real Estate Diamond Team at Washington Coast's #1 Beach,

April Swenson & Bob McDougal
Coldwell Banker Ocean Shores, WA
888-469-3100 office 360-289-3111 fax 360-589-2777 cell
aswenson25@juno.com
www.oceanshoresinfo.com

2009-04-04T13:40:00.000-07:00

Our web site has changed to http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/

Enjoy lots of great information, like listings, pictures, relocation info, etc.

2009-01-26T10:59:00.001-08:00

Below is an e-mail that I sent out to my fellow Realtors. that I thought I would share. It has some very useful data and important information telling of the benefits of Ocean Shores over the other Washington Coast beach communities.

Hello Fellow Realtors:

I made a promise to GHAR's Board to give everyone a 2008 end-of-the-year update with the Ocean Shores/North Beach market stats. Yes, one cannot ignore that markets are down everywhere around the entire country and state. But compared to the other Washington beach communities, Ocean Shores reigns supreme with the greatest selection, highest number of sales, and lowest prices.

Ocean Shores: 201 houses, 189 lots and 18 condos sell with median sale prices of $173K, $33K and $232K, respectively.
Compared to the North Beach: 21 houses and 12 lots sell with median sale prices of $193K and $58K, respectively.
Compared to the South Beach: 45 houses, 19 lots, and 4 condos sell with median sales prices of $220K, $20K and $590K, respectively.
Compared to the Long Beach Peninsula: 151 houses, 57 lots and 16 condos sell with median sale prices of $170K, $45K and $159K, respectively.
(CHECK OUT THE CHARTS BELOW)

Ocean Shores also reigns supreme with the number of buildable lots available. All properties have power, city sewer and water in the streets to hook-up to for ease of building. You can also camp on your lot for up to 90 days per year. Ocean Shores also features the greatest number of available and most affordable condos, which are located on the Ocean, Jetty and Grand Canal. Lastly, the City of Ocean Shores Permit Center is comparatively easier to work with for building, clearing, etc.

We also feature the most amenities:

Year-Round Beaches accessible very easily by foot or car.
Parks with boat launches, ball fields, basketball and tennis courts, playgrounds, and much more.
Community Club's Bayshore Clubhouse, which lies directly on the Bay with gorgeous views, an indoor pool, spa, gym, basketball court, cafeteria, game room, and more.
23 miles of interconnecting fresh water lakes and canals, including the approximately 5-mile long Duck Lake, where you can go boating, water skiing, and fishing, and the Grand Canal, which is the largest canal.
The public 18-hole Golf Course with Driving Range and Putting Green.
The city-owned Airport for smaller, private planes.
Downtown with many large hotels, ie the Shilo and Quality Inn, restaurants, shops, grocery store, churches, family fun centers, ie miniature golf and go-cart race tracks, and much more fun available.
Yearly Events held on the Beach, Convention Center and the rest of the Downtown, including the 4th of July Fireworks, Sandcastle Competitions, Kite Challenge, Clam Digs, and more.

My business partner and I have some other good news: we are ranked #3 in Grays Harbor County for the number of listings closed and volume closed (per NWMLS data). God has really blessed us.

We have also added some new features to our web site (www.oceanshoresrealtor.com):

Brunk Homes: premier spec builder in Ocean Shores
www.oceanshoresrealtor.com/brunkhomes.html
Community Club's Bayshore Clubhouse pictures
www.oceanshoresrealtor.com/pics/clubhouse.html
The Boardwalk Shops of Ocean Shores: the band new downtown retail shops
www.oceanshoresrealtor.com/commercial/boardwalkshops.html
All different kinds of pictures of Ocean Shores and the other Coastal Communities
www.oceanshoresrealtor.com/pics.html
News Releases/Announcements: Windsurfers, Passing Broker's Test, Snow Storms, and much more
www.oceanshoresrealtor.com/news.html
And so much more

Yearly Market Activity
January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008

Ocean Shores Market:
Homes Land Condos Total
Current Listings 223 530 57 810
Pendings 9 4 3 16
Solds 201 189 18 408
Sold Volume $39.2M $9M $4.4M $52.6M
Sold Median Price $173K $33K $232,500

North Beach Market:
Homes Land Total
Current Listings 46 107 153
Pendings 0 0 0
Solds 21 12 33
Sold Volume $5.3M $1.28M $6.58M
Sold Median Price $193K $58K

South Beach (Westport/Grayland) Market:
Homes Land Condos Total
Current Listings 75 78 26 179
Pendings 2 0 2 4
Solds 45 19 4 68
Sold Volume $8.8M $1.68M $2.38M $12.86M
Sold Median Price $220K $20K $590K

Long Beach Peninsula (Ilwaco to Ocean Park/Surfside Estates) Market:
Homes Land Condos Total
Current Listings 229 249 45 523
Pendings 10 1 1 12
Solds 151 57 16 224
Sold Volume $29.1M $3.53M $2.92M $35.55M
Sold Median Price $170K $45K $159K

NOTE: All of the above data is pulled from the NWMLS and not guaranteed.

Respectfully Submitted,

April Swenson & Bob McDougal
Coldwell Banker Ocean Shores
888-469-3100 office 360-289-3111 fax 360-589-2777 cell
aswenson25@juno.com
www.oceanshoresrealtor.com

2008-12-14T18:55:00.000-08:00

April Swenson & Bob McDougal

Washington Coast's Diamonds Team

Visit http://www.oceanshoresrealtor.com for more info and pictures!!!!

Ocean Shores, WA…what a great place to live and invest! This town has 23 miles of interconnecting fresh water Lakes and Canals; Parks with ball fields and boat launches onto Duck Lake; 18-hole Golf Course with Driving Range; the Community Club’s Bayshore Clubhouse with an indoor pool, gym, basketball court and much more; the Quinault Beach Resort & Casino; many hotels, restaurants, and shops in Downtown; and let us not forget the reason for it all….the BEACH. Enjoy free, unfettered access to our 6 miles of sandy beaches and Jetty with access paths and streets to walk and drive on the Beach. This is one of the last affordable and developed areas on the West Coast, with water, power and sewers in the street.
And there is more than just Ocean Shores….Grays Harbor County’s coastline stretches from Grayland and Westport in the south around Grays Harbor Bay to Ocean Shores and up State Route 109 passing through the small towns of Ocean City, Copalis Beach, Pacific Beach and Moclips.
These are just some of the reasons I moved here in December 2004. I was born and raised in Southern California. I graduated from UCLA in 2002 with a B.S. degree cum laude in Applied Mathematics. I have been a real estate agent in Ocean Shores since September 2004. I earned the 2005 Grays Harbor Association of Realtors Rookie of the Year Award, the President’s Circle for 2005, the Diamond Society Team Award for 2007, as well as being part of the Multi-Million Dollar Club. I have completed courses to earn the national recognized Certified New Home Specialist™ and Residential Construction Certified™ designations to further my specialty of working with new homes. In November 2008, I passed the State Broker’s Exam and earned my Associate Broker’s License.
I am very proud to be business partners with Bob McDougal since October 2006 because we offer the best that you can find -- expertise, solutions, caring, strong work ethic, and a heavy Internet marketing presence. Bob has worked as a real estate agent in Ocean Shores since October 2003, but has also been in business for over 35 years. He too earned the Grays Harbor Association Rookie of the Year Award for 2003. With his wealth of knowledge and wisdom in business, financials and real estate, he and I compliment each other and work well to provide a wide range of information, knowledge, and expertise. We specialize in all facets of real estate – commercial, residential, condos, and vacant land.
Both of us are glad to be a part of Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties’ team of professional and dedicated agents. Our office is located in the heart of downtown Ocean Shores and features a new building with artwork displayed in the hallways and Caffé Amici. There is also the brand-new Boardwalk Shops of Ocean Shores located next door, which feature retail shops. We are also the leader among Grays Harbor County real estate offices in Internet advertising!
Bob and I further this lead and take it many steps further and advertise through a wide range of different avenues/Internet sites. We promise that we will get your property before as many eyes as possible. We pride ourselves on providing straight-forward analyses, professional and high moral standards, diligence, and a caring attitude. Whether you are looking to buy or sell, Bob and I treat our clients with respect and we promise to work hard for you!

Introduction

2008-04-29T10:54:00.001-07:00

"Buy Your Dream from the Best Team"

April Swenson & Bob McDougal ~ Washington Coast's Diamonds Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties Team

Ocean Shores & North Beach info at your fingertips at http://www.oceanshoresrealtor.com/