Saturday, December 25, 2010

Ocean Shores Events: Merry Christmas 2010 from the Beach

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.




Tuesday, November 9, 2010

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

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?

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

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

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.

Monday, October 25, 2010

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

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




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



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


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



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:


Homes $150K or Less


Homes $150K-$200K


Homes Over $200K


Waterfront Homes


Lots $10K or Less


Lots $10K-$15K


Lots $15K-$20K


Lots Over $20K


View Lots


Waterfront Lots




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 HomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
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 HomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
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 HomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
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 HomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
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)
HomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
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)
HomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
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)
HomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
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)
HomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
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!

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

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

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

Homes $150K-$200K

Homes Over $200K

Waterfront Homes

Lots $20K or Less

Lots Over $20K

View Lots

Waterfront Lots


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 QuarterHomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
Current Listings21650192316 825
Pendings33920145
Solds293551070
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)123181149 2100


VS.





































































2009 1st QuarterHomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
Current Listings21053865?????? 813+
Pendings32960451
Solds312040055
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)15911921 00


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 QuarterHomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
Current Listings30101426 175
Pendings500005
Solds401005
Sold Volume$812K$0$249K$0$0$1.06M
Sold Median Price$88,500$0$249K$0$0
Average Days on Market (solds)2170310 00


VS.



















































2009 1st QuarterHomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
Solds520007
Sold Volume$1.63M$0$0$0$0$1.68M
Sold Median Price$88,500$0$0$0$0
Average Days on Market (solds)2241930 00

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!

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

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

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


Homes $150K to $200K


Homes over $200K


Waterfront Homes


Lots Under $20K


Lots $20K+


View Lots


Waterfront Lots



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


OCEAN SHORES MARKET:




























































HomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
Current Listings 174 455 86 312 730
Pendings 21 11 6 0 0 38
Solds 179 133 26 47 349
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:






















































HomesLandMulti-FamilyCommercialTotal
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:




























































HomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
Current Listings 82 90 34 213 221
Pendings 3 1 13 0 0 17
Solds 40 18 17 14 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:




























































HomesLandCondos Multi-FamilyCommercialTotal
Current Listings 214 248 42 119 524
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