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What to Check For on a Final Walkthrough

When you purchase a home, you have the option to walk through it one more time right before it becomes officially yours. Here are some things to look out for so that you make sure you are getting the house in the condition you expected.

What to Check For on a Final Walkthrough

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

First of all, what is a final walkthrough? When you purchase a home, you have the option to walk through it one more time right before it becomes officially yours. You get to check on the items the seller promised to fix in the home inspection and make sure the home is in the same condition you first saw it in.

There is a lot to look for so I put together a handy list to use when you do. Here are some things to look out for so that you make sure you are getting the house in the condition you expected.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out here.

The List

Printable Version (click here)

  • Test all the lights.

    • Flip every light switch on and off to make sure there are no electrical issues.

  • Check the garage.

    • Test the doors. Make sure the safety auto reverse feature works.

  • Test the heating and air.

    • This is a costly replacement if functionality is lacking.

  • Test out the garbage disposal and all exhaust fans.

    • Check the fans on the stove and in the bathrooms/laundry room.

  • Look closely at the appliances.

    • Make sure the oven and stove work and double check the ice maker on the fridge is functioning.

  • Open and close windows.

    • Make sure they open and close properly and that locks are working.

  • Take note of cleanliness.

    • Check for trash or debris left behind and if carpets have been professionally cleaned.

  • Inspect walls, ceilings, and floors.

    • Make sure no holes have been made in the walls with the move.

  • Test all outlets.

    • Check the circuit breaker if there are any issues.

  • Check the plumbing.

    • Run all sinks, showers, and bathtubs. Flush all the toilets. Check for leaks.

  • Check the pipes.

    • Look for leaks or cracks around all visible piping.

  • Check the doors.

    • Pay attention to all knobs and locks. Also, check the doorbell.

 

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16 Questions to Ask a Lender

Loan terms, rates and products can vary significantly from one lending company to the next. Plus, how do you handle closings in the age of COVID-19?

16 Questions to Ask a Lender

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out here.

  1. What are the most popular mortgages you offer? Why are they so popular?

  2. Are your rates, terms, fees and closing costs negotiable?

  3. Do you offer discounts for inspections, homeownership classes or automatic payment set-up?

  4. Will I have to buy private mortgage insurance? If so, how much will it cost and how long will it be required?

  5. What escrow requirements do you have?

  6. What kind of bill-pay options do you offer?

  7. Do you do remote closings?

  8. Explain the process of closing with social distancing.

  9. What would be included in my mortgage payment (homeowners insurance, property taxes, etc.)?

  10. Which type of mortgage plan would you recommend for my situation?

  11. Who will service this loan? Your bank or another company?

  12. How long will the rate on this loan be locked-in? Will I be able to obtain a lower rate if the market rate drops during the lock-in period?

  13. How long will the loan approval process take?

  14. How long will it take to close the loan?

  15. Are there any charges or penalties for prepaying this loan?

  16. How much will I be paying in total over the life of this loan?

 

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85 Things Not To Neglect When Selling Your House FSBO (For Sale By Owner)

The best way to sell your house is to sell it fast. When your house isn’t in the best condition, the appearance isn't great or if it isn't priced right, it sits on the market for far too long and becomes stale. That’s when people begin to wonder what’s wrong with it...

85 Things Not to Neglect When Selling Your House

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

When you put your home on the market, it needs to be immaculate. It needs to have all of the positive aspects that attract buyers. These days, it simply isn’t enough to just take care of basic repairs and cleaning. Your home needs to be presented in a light that gets buyers to imagine all the possibilities. You need to make them dream.

Take care of every little repair and do whatever is in your power to make your home desirable on the first day you show it, not the last. Your home must be clean, neutral, and spacious.

Every room needs to be “staged,” with lighting and arrangements that show off its features. If you miss any of these steps, you risk losing that potential buyer. And once you lose that chance at a great first impression, you might lose any chance of selling it for a decent price.

It’s a long list but if you do take the time to take care of your home, you will see the results.

This list works great for those of you thinking of selling your home FSBO (For Sale By Owner). If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out here.

Serenity Method Book on table with coffee.png
 


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Interviewing A Management Company

If you decide to hire a property manager, it's a good idea to visit the management company's office and interview the prospective property manager.

Interviewing A Management Company

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

If you decide to hire a property manager, it's a good idea to visit the management company's office and interview the prospective property manager. 

Questions to ask include:

How many years of experience do you have?

What management services do you provide? Can I have that in writing?

How do you structure your fees? 

Are there fees when the property is vacant?

How do you screen tenants?

What kind of insurance coverage do you have? 

Are employees bonded? 

How are funds for different properties handled? 

Is there a single account for all properties or an individual account for each?

How do you stay current on local, state, and federal laws?

How often do you communicate with clients and how do you present reports?

How quickly do you get properties on the market?

What are your average vacancy rates?


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Types of Property Ownership

Learn that pros and cons of the different types of property ownership.

Types of Property Ownership

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business owned and run by an individual or spouses. The owners receive the net income as ordinary income, which is taxed at the owner’s personal rate. Simplicity is its main advantage as organizing as a sole proprietorship requires no legal setup, no extra tax reporting, and no additional partners. Its main disadvantage is unlimited liability. Sole proprietorships do not provide any asset protection. In the case of a lawsuit, all of the owner’s personal assets are all at risk.

General Partnership

A general partnership is similar to a sole proprietorship in that each of the individual owners is liable for income taxes on his or her share of the business income. Partners are also personally liable for the actions and debts of the partnership. The partnership terminates upon the death, disability, or withdrawal of any one partner. However, most partnership agreements anticipate these types of events; by prior agreement, the remaining partners purchase the departing partner’s share.

Limited Partnership

A limited partnership is structured around a general partner and limited partners, who invest in the enterprise. The general partner has management control and is responsible for all business actions and debts. The limited partners, who contribute capital and have little involvement in day-to-day operations, are not liable for any debts. The advantage for the general partner is access to a pool of capital. The limited partners receive a stream of profits and losses without any of the work of property management.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Limited liability companies have the advantage of providing asset protection but at the same time avoiding the double taxation that comes with a C corporation. LLCs also limit the owner’s liability to the extent of their investments. They are also easier to set up than corporations, and do not require shareholders or annual meetings. LLCs can have multiple owners (called members), and the members can be individuals or partnerships, trusts, foreign investors, or corporations, each owning different percentages. Most states permit single-member LLCs (although there may be tax consequences for these), but spouses are considered two members when forming an LLC.

The LLC is a pass-through entity that helps the owners avoid paying both corporate and personal taxes. The owner of a one-member LLC does not need to file a separate tax return for the business entity. All of the income and expenses, which are deductible, are reported on the LLC operator’s tax return. On the downside, the single-owner is required to pay self-employment tax on income generated. The challenge for single- owner LLCs is to keep a strict separation between the business entity and the owner’s personal and other business affairs.

S Corporation

The S corporation is a pass-through entity that offers the benefit of limiting the liability of the owners. Owners pay personal income tax on corporate profits, while the corporation reports those taxes under its own corporate tax returns. Owners pay taxes on their salaries, bonuses, and dividends as well as retained earnings. As a separate structure, S corporations require scheduled director and shareholder meetings, minutes from those meetings, adoption and updates to by-laws, stock transfers, and records maintenance.

S corporation owners are compensated by paying themselves a salary. Excess profits can be distributed as dividends. The S corporation, however, has limited utility as an ownership entity for investment real estate because no more than 25 percent of gross receipts can come from passive activity.


C Corporation

The C Corporation is an independent legal entity owned by the shareholders and is treated as a separate entity for tax purposes. It is separate from those who own, control, and manage it, therefore the corporation itself, not the shareholders that own it, is held legally liable for the actions and debts the business incurs.

The C Corporation pays corporate tax, and the owners pay personal income tax only on their salaries, bonuses, and dividends. The C Corporation not only has the disadvantage of double taxation, it is also more costly and time-consuming to set-up and operate, and requires additional record keeping.


Have questions about the investment process?

 


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Questions To Ask Yourself Before Investing In Real Estate

Make sure your goal is specific, includes measurable numbers, has a timeframe for accomplishment, and is relevant to your lifestyle and the property you ultimately choose.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Investing in Real Estate

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

Short but sweet list of questions you should ask yourself before you invest in real estate. I have an easy printable version. Just click the button to download.

What type of property are you interested in (single family or multi-family)?

There are pros and cons to owning a single family home, a condo, or a multifamily unit for the purposes of investment. You’ll want to decide upfront what you are looking for.


What area are you interested in?

This question is important to answer when you are thinking of the type of tenant you want as well as the decision to self manage the investment or to hire a property manager. You probably want the property to be local if you plan on self managing.


Is there a particular type of tenant or renter you want to attract?

Are you in a military area? College town? Vacation town? Decide what type of tenant you want to attract so your agent can help you find the right property for that type of tenant.

Is this your first real estate purchase?

Real estate is very unique, and the investment process is a little more complex than if you were to be buying for yourself.


What prompted you to invest now?

Is the reason a good one to jump on this right away or would it be better to wait?


Will there be others involved in the investment?

This is important to talk through with your CPA, Realtor, and Lender so you know what type of ownership you will be taking with the property.


Are you looking for a profit in the future or additional income in the present?

The will help you determine what kind of return on your investment you are looking for. Ask yourself how long you plan on holding onto your investment too. This will help you determine the type of profit you are looking for.


What is the source of your current income? What assets do you have?

How secure is your financial situation? If your investment were to remain vacant for a few months, would you be okay?


How do you plan to fund the investment?

Will you be borrowing the money from a bank or paying cash? How much do you have for a down payment. Typically you need a minimum of 25% down for an investment.


Do you have a business or financial plan?

How does this plan to purchase an investment property fit with your plans?


What is your current tax liability?

Chat through this one with your CPA.


Will you self-manage the property or hire a management company?

This will help you determine where to search for your investment. Sometimes it’s just easier to pay someone else to manage it, but that can also eat at your profits. Decide what is most important.


Make sure your goal is specific, includes measurable numbers, has a timeframe for accomplishment, and is relevant to your lifestyle and the property you ultimately choose.

Fill in the blanks.

My goal is to _______________________________________(priority)

by investing in a _____________________________(type of property)

that will yield _______________________________________(% or $).


Have questions about the investment process?

 


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July 2020 Market Update - Snohomish County Real Estate

Your Snohomish County real estate market update for July, 2020.

Market Stats

Snohomish County Housing Market

July 2020

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

*Week of 7/23/2020, Source http://www.freddiemac.com/pmms/

*Week of 7/23/2020, Source http://www.freddiemac.com/pmms/

Let’s start by taking a look at the interest rates. They are at historic lows. I really hate using the word “historic” because it sounds like I’m trying to sell you something, but these rates really are historically low. It’s incredibly cheap to borrow money right now.

If you’re a home seller—This means you have a lot of buyers that can leverage more buying power because their monthly payments are much lower at this rate than the rates last year.

If you’re a potential buyer—You can use this time to borrow money and even though home prices have risen, your monthly payment might not because of these low rates.

*Stats for June 2020, Source NWMLS.com

*Stats for June 2020, Source NWMLS.com

Now onto the real estate stats.

  • We have 9% less listings coming on the market.

  • We have an increase of 21.5% in pending home sales.

  • Homes are only on the market an average of 20 days before they find a buyer.

  • Your average sales price has increase over 5% to a range of $539k to $581k.

  • When a house does sell, it is selling for an average of 101% of the listed price.

What this translate to is a strong seller’s market. This is for all of Snohomish County, which is a huge county. Each city and area is unique, but overall, our real estate market is strong and healthy.

FAQS

Why have prices increased?

When you have a low number of homes for sale and a high demand for homes from buyers, you get buyers competing with each other to win. One of the best ways to do that is to offer to pay more money. Every time this happens, this helps the next future house sell for more as well because the overall value of the area increases.

Is it a good time to sell?

Yes! A lot of homes that are marketed well and priced at fair market value are selling for at or above their listed price and in record times.

Is it a good time to buy?

While it is difficult at times to compete with all the other buyers out there, it is still a great time to buy because money is so cheap to borrow right now. The prices of homes are projected to continue to increase, so it will only get more and more expensive.

Have a question you want answered?

Contact Nicole here.

A One Week Snapshot of the Market

stats 7-24.JPG

🏠 In the last 7 days, we have had 321 new listings hit the market. Still not enough homes for sale though. Look at how many have found buyers and have sold!

🏠 586 homes found buyers!

🏠 352 homes sold!

We consistently have around 250-275 homes listed each week and the number of homes sold keeps increasing. This is such a strong seller’s market.

We are in an inventory shortage, meaning we need more homes for sale. If you’ve been thinking of selling your house, now is a great time. Interest rates are low and we have a large pool of buyers ready to buy. Please reach out if I can help answer any questions.

📈 Want more stats specific to you and your niche market? Contact me here.

Last Week’s Stats

Snohomish County Real Estate Forecast geotag.jpg
 


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Every Home on 5+ Acres for Sale in Snohomish County

Want to move to a home on 5+ acres? I’ve put together a list of every acreage home in the Snohomish County area.

Every Home on 5+ Acres for Sale in Snohomish County

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

Ready to move to your dream acreage home?

I’ve put together a list of every home on acreage for sale in the Snohomish area.

Submit the quick and easy form for your copy of the complete list and to be registered for an updated list to be sent as new listings become available.

lakefront homes

63 Homes on 5+ Acres To Choose From!

as of 7/20/2020



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100 Things To Do At Home This Summer in Snohomish

So many fun options to choose from to make the best of a stay-at-home summer. Plant a garden, have a picnic, fly a kite… to name a few!

100 Things To Do At Home This Summer in Snohomish

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

100 Things To Do At Home This Summer in Snohomish geotag.jpg

So many fun options to choose from to make the best of a stay-at-home summer.

1. Plant a garden.

2. Have a picnic. Bonus: Use ingredients from your garden!

3. Fly a kite.

4. Go camping in the backyard.

5. Make an obstacle course. 

6. Go on a scavenger hunt around your neighborhood.

7. Give the car a good wash.

8. Make DIY chalk paint, then decorate the driveway. 

9. Learn how to do a cartwheel.

10. Build a mud kitchen. 

11. Make and play with your very own water table. 

12. Give the dog a bath with the garden hose.

13. Collect and paint pet rocks.

14. Create a DIY water wall. 

15. Set up a back yard tight rope.

16. Use non-toxic, washable spray paint to make a backyard twister game. 

17. Make DIY bubbles. 

18. Set up an outdoor movie night.

19. Play backyard bingo.

20. Go stargazing.

21. Catch a lightening bug.

22. Go puddle stomping after a storm.

23. Play I-spy.

24. Create a sheet masterpiece. Hang up an old white sheet and let the kids paint.

25. Enjoy story time outside.

26. Look for shapes in the clouds. Bonus: Create stories with the shapes you see!

27. Make a gameboard out of chalk.

28. Use laundry baskets to play frisbee golf.

29. Run through the sprinkler.

30. Do a sack race with pillowcases.

31. Hug a tree.

32. Make s’mores.

33. Make a homemade water blob. 

34. Learn a new outdoor sport.

35. Make homemade popsicles. 

36. Have a water balloon fight.

37. Take an outdoor nap (in the shade).

38. Dance in the rain.

39. Tie-dye shirts, beach towels, shorts, dresses, sheets – anything! 

40. Have a bonfire.

41. Ride bikes.

42. Create a fairy garden. 

43. Collect and identify the plants growing in your yard.

44. Make a papier-mâché piñata and fill it with treats.

45. Shadow trace your toys on a sunny day.

46. Make slime. 

47. Play hopscotch.

48. Climb a tree.

49. Build an outdoor fort.

50. Create a DIY slip and slide with a tarp, water and some dish soap.

51. Paint kind messages on rocks and leave them around your neighborhood.

52. Play lawn checkers.

53. Make ice cream in a bag. 

54. Play hide and seek.

55. Find a quiet spot outside, close your eyes and meditate for five minutes.

56. Go for a walk and measure how far things are from your house.

57. Hula hoop.

58. Recycle old crayons by melting them in the sun.

59. Play in a sandbox.

60. Press leaves and flowers into an old book or scrapbook.

61. Paint with fruit or flowers.

62. Play catch with a ball.

63. Catch and release bugs you find in your yard.

64. Paint with a (clean!) fly swatter.

65. Set up two goals and play soccer.

66. Make a collage from things you find in nature.

67. Create a toy car wash or bike car wash.

68. Make pine cone bird feeders and hang them in a tree. 

69. Make leaf rubbings. 

70. Make a daisy or clover crown. 

71. Whittle some sticks.

72. Make a miniature golf course in your yard.

73. Have a shaving cream fight.

74. Learn about the history and significance of totem poles and make your own. 

75. Paint with colorful ice. 

76. Have a water gun fight.

77. Play tag with a wet sponge.

78. Design mud sculptures.

79. Plant a butterfly garden. 

80. Play a game of marbles.

81. Weave with nature. 

82. Make a DIY composter. 

83. Do outdoor yoga.

84. Help clean out the garage.

85. Play balloon volleyball.

86. Practice hammering nails into scrap wood (with supervision).

87. Keep a list of the birds that visit your backyard.

88. Hang up some lights, put on music and have an outdoor dance party.

89. Fill a plastic container with toys for a frozen giant ice block. 

90. DIY giant pick up sticks.

91. Make a your own giant Jenga game. 

92. Make a worm farm. 

93. Host an egg and spoon race.

94. Have a tea party with stuffed animals and dolls.

95. Decorate your bikes, especially for holidays like the 4th of July.

96. Paint with water. 

97. Use an old bed sheet to play a parachute game.

98. Make friendship bracelets.

99. Have access to water? Go fishing.

100. Lace up your shoes or roller blades and play street hockey.

 

Find a home by School District:

Snohomish School District - View All

Under $400,000$400-$500k$500-$600k$600-$700k$700-$800k$800-$900k$900k-$1,000,000$1,000,000+

Lake Stevens School District - View All

Under $400,000$400-$500k$500-$600k$600-$700k$700-$800k$800-$900k$900k-$1,000,000$1,000,000+

Everett School District - View All

Under $400,000$400-$500k$500-$600k$600-$700k$700-$800k$800-$900k$900k-$1,000,000$1,000,000+


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Every Lake Front Home for Sale in Snohomish County

Want to move to a Lakefront home? I’ve put together a list of every lake home in the Snohomish County area.

Every Lakefront Home for Sale in Snohomish County

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

Ready to move to your dream lakefront home?

I’ve put together a list of every lakefront home for sale in the Snohomish area.

Submit the quick and easy form for your copy of the complete list and to be registered for an updated list to be sent weekly.

lakefront homes

Only 11 Lakefront Homes To Choose From!

as of 4/13/2020



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Market Update - Snohomish County Real Estate 4/10/2020

Your Snohomish County real estate market update for April 10th, 2020.

Snohomish County Real Estate Market

April 10th, 2020

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

📈 Market update 📈

In Snohomish County, in the last 7 days, we have had a healthy number (207) of new listings hit the market.

🏠 23 homes increased their asking price while 93 decreased their asking price.

🏠 260 homes found buyers! That is great considering the economic unrest right now.

🏠 57 homes lost buyers and are back on the market. This happens for various reasons, but I wouldn't be surprised if it was because of job uncertainty for home buyers. This number is smaller than last week. I was expecting to see more cancelled listings, but only 15 listings decided to go off the market this week.

📈 Want more stats specific to you and your niche market? Contact me here.

410 stats.png


Median Sales Price

$500,000

 

Days on Market

11



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Snohomish County: Your Guide to Equestrian and Farmland Opportunities

Explore the vibrant equestrian and farmland opportunities awaiting in Snohomish County, a haven for livestock enthusiasts and prospective homeowners seeking a rural paradise. This comprehensive guide delves into city-specific regulations, acreage requirements, and the essential steps to finding your dream home with the expert guidance of The Serviss Group at RE/MAX.

Snohomish County: Your Guide to Equestrian and Farmland Opportunities

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

Are you dreaming of a serene equestrian paradise nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Snohomish County? Well, your dream is about to come true as we delve deep into the heart of rural Snohomish County, a haven for livestock and farm animals. Whether you are an aspiring farmer or a seasoned equestrian enthusiast, understanding the rules and guidelines for keeping livestock is essential. Let's explore the possibilities that await in the rich farmlands of this region, with a special focus on the number of animals you can keep per acre.

Understanding the Acreage Requirements

Before you set out to purchase your dream farmland, it is vital to understand the acreage requirements set by the Snohomish County government. Generally, the number of animals you can keep depends on various factors including the type of animal and the total acreage of your land.

In Snohomish County, the general guideline is that larger animals such as horses require more space compared to smaller livestock like sheep or goats. For instance, you might need an acre of land to keep one or two horses, ensuring they have ample space to graze and roam freely.

Equestrian Dreams Come True

Snohomish County is renowned for its equestrian facilities and communities. If you are an equestrian enthusiast, you will find a plethora of opportunities to nurture your passion. From equestrian trails to training facilities, the county offers everything you need to keep your horses healthy and happy.

Livestock and Smaller Farm Animals

Apart from horses, Snohomish County offers a nurturing environment for a variety of smaller farm animals. Whether you are looking to keep goats, sheep, or poultry, understanding the acreage requirements is crucial. Generally, smaller animals require less space, allowing you to keep a higher number of livestock per acre.

For detailed guidelines on the number of animals you can keep per acre, it is advisable to consult the Snohomish County government website for the most current regulations and recommendations.


City-Specific Regulations in Snohomish County

As you venture into the different cities of Snohomish County, you'll find that each city has its unique set of regulations governing the keeping of livestock and horses.

  1. Arlington - City of Arlington

  2. Bothell (partly in King County) - City of Bothell

  3. Brier - City of Brier

  4. Darrington - Town of Darrington

  5. Edmonds - City of Edmonds

  6. Everett (County Seat) - City of Everett

  7. Gold Bar - City of Gold Bar

  8. Granite Falls - City of Granite Falls

  9. Lake Stevens - City of Lake Stevens

  10. Lynnwood - City of Lynnwood

  11. Marysville - City of Marysville

  12. Mill Creek - City of Mill Creek

  13. Monroe - City of Monroe

  14. Mountlake Terrace - City of Mountlake Terrace

  15. Mukilteo - City of Mukilteo

  16. Snohomish - City of Snohomish

  17. Stanwood - City of Stanwood

  18. Sultan - City of Sultan

  19. Woodway - Town of Woodway

Finding Your Dream Farmland

As you navigate through the diverse landscapes of Snohomish County, remember that finding the perfect farmland is a journey tailored to your unique needs and preferences. Whether you are drawn to the equestrian communities or the vibrant livestock farms, Snohomish County promises a rich and fulfilling experience.

Understanding County Land Requirements for Equestrian Land in Snohomish County

When it comes to establishing an equestrian facility or keeping horses on your property in Snohomish County, it is essential to be aware of the specific land requirements set forth by the county. These requirements are designed to ensure the welfare of the animals and to maintain the environmental integrity of the land.

Acreage Requirements

The acreage requirements can vary based on a variety of factors including the specific location within the county, the type of equestrian activities you plan to undertake, and the number of horses you intend to keep. Generally speaking, larger parcels of land are preferred for equestrian activities to ensure ample space for facilities such as stables, riding arenas, and pastures.

Zoning Regulations

Zoning regulations play a crucial role in determining the allowable uses of a piece of land. In Snohomish County, lands zoned for agricultural or rural uses are typically more conducive to equestrian activities. It is advisable to consult the Snohomish County Planning and Development Services for detailed information on zoning regulations and to ensure compliance with all necessary requirements.

Environmental Considerations

Environmental stewardship is a priority in Snohomish County. Landowners are encouraged to implement best management practices to protect critical areas, water resources, and wildlife habitats. This includes managing manure properly to prevent water pollution and designing facilities to minimize impervious surfaces.

Building and Permit Requirements

Before establishing an equestrian facility, landowners must obtain the necessary permits from the county. This may include building permits for the construction of stables and other structures, as well as grading permits for land alterations. It is essential to work closely with the county's planning and development services to ensure a smooth permitting process.

Conclusion

Understanding the county land requirements for equestrian land is a vital step in realizing your dream of owning an equestrian property in Snohomish County. By adhering to the guidelines and working collaboratively with county officials, you can create a safe and sustainable environment for both humans and horses.

Whether you have questions about acreage requirements, equestrian facilities, or finding a home that meets all your needs, The Serviss Group is here to assist you. Leveraging their extensive experience and knowledge of Snohomish County, they can help you navigate the diverse offerings of each city, ensuring you make an informed decision that you will be happy with for years to come.

Don't wait any longer to make your dream a reality. Reach out to The Serviss Group with RE/MAX today and take the first step towards finding your dream home in the heart of Snohomish County.





Have the dream of owning a horse property?

I’ve put together a list of every home in the Snohomish area with a barn. Submit the quick and easy form for your copy of the complete list and to register for an updated list to be sent weekly.

 

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Every One-Story Home for Sale in the Snohomish Area - Get The List!

Need to move to a single story home? I’ve put together a list of every one story home in the Snohomish area.

Every One-Story Home for Sale in the Snohomish Area

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

Need to move to a single story home?

I’ve put together a list of every one story home in the Snohomish area.

Submit the quick and easy form for your copy of the complete list and to be registered for an updated list to be sent weekly.

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181 Ramblers To Choose From!

as of 4/10/2020

Stats For One Story Homes in Snohomish County





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Snohomish is Getting a Tiny House Hotel on the Corner of Pearl and Willow

The proposed project is for nine individual “tiny house” structures, of which one will serve as a full-time office.

Snohomish is Getting a Tiny House Hotel

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

The proposed project is for nine individual “tiny house” structures in Downtown Snohomish on the corner of Pearl and Willow. Of the 9 tiny structures, one will serve as a full-time office. Site improvements include utilities, landscaping, and parking for nine vehicles, in addition to frontage improvements on Pearl Street and Willow Avenue.

No news as to when the project will be complete, but this will be a fun addition to our little town. Currently, the only option for guests to stay is the Snohomish Inn or private VRBO and Air BnB. Looking forward to having more options!

See a copy of the site plan with the city here.




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How to Avoid Wire Fraud in a Real Estate Transaction

Wire fraud is a very real risk. Scammers have gotten very good and duplicating emails that look like they’re coming from your Realtor, Lender, or Escrow Officer.

How to Avoid Wire Fraud in a Real Estate Transaction

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

Wire fraud is a very real risk. Scammers have gotten very good and duplicating emails that look like they’re coming from your Realtor, Lender, or Escrow Officer. See below for an example of this:

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These scammers were clever. They used an email address almost identical to the broker's email address and they established a sense of urgency, capitalizing on the buyer's fear of economic turmoil due to the Coronavirus. Recently, a couple in San Diego lost almost $800,000 to a wire fraud scam. See article here.

The most common times a scammer will try to get your money is when you need to submit your earnest money payment or when you are paying your closing costs/downpayment on your new home.

Whether you’re in a real estate transaction or not, if you receive an email asking you to wire money, stop and call that person from the phone number you have for them or a number you find online. Verify that is was indeed them and not a scammer.

Stay safe out there and feel free to reach out if you have any questions!



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5 Myths About Buying a House

1. You need a 20% down payment. False. While it's best practice to put 20% down, you can find loans that offer great terms as low as 0% down…

5 Myths About Buying a House

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

The 5 most common myths, busted!

1. You need a 20% down payment.

False. While it's best practice to put 20% down to avoid paying mortgage insurance, you can find loans that offer great terms as low as 0% down.

2. You need to pay your Realtor.

False. The seller pays for the real estate commission.

3. Your credit score needs to be perfect.

False. You only need a 620+ to qualify. Different loans and programs have different requirements, but if you’re close to that score, it’s worth it to talk to a lender and find out if you can be approved for a mortgage.

4. You should wait to apply for a loan until you've found your dream house.

False. You’ll want to get pre-approved (and that’s different than pre-qualified) before you start the home shopping process. Why? Because when you submit an offer on a house, you include your pre-approval letter with your offer to prove to the sellers that you can afford this house. You don’t want to miss out on your dream home while you’re waiting for your lender to approve you.

5. My 100% Perfect house exists.

False. Even people that custom build their home always have something they'd change about it. When you walk through a house, rate it from 1 to 10. 10 being your dream house. If you rate it around an 8.5-9.5, that's a house you consider writing an offer on. Ask yourself what this house needs to be a 10. Then make sure those are things you're willing to compromise on. If not, are they things you can afford to fix.

I hope you found this information helpful. If you did, or if you have any questions, please let me know.



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How to Price Your Home: Retail vs. Wholesale

When you're considering selling your house you can price it two ways, at wholesale price or retail price. When you sell a car, you fix it up, you clean it, have it detailed, fix that broken tail light. Why?

How to Price Your Home: Retail vs. Wholesale

Nicole Serviss, RE/MAX Elite

When you're considering selling your house you can price it two ways, at wholesale price or retail price. When you sell a car, you fix it up, you clean it, have it detailed, fix that broken tail light. Why? So you can get top dollar for your car. The same holds true for houses. If you want to get top dollar, AKA retail price, for your house, you need to put in a little work first. Watch to find out how.



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Your Guide to Christmas Tree Farms in Snohomish County

Looking for the right place to find the right tree? Locals chime in on where they like to go and why.

Your Guide to Christmas Trees Farms

Looking for the right place to find the right tree? Locals chime in on where they like to go and why.


Lerviks Tree Farm

8416 State Route 92, Granite Falls, Washington

$40 for any tree

“They have great trees, fair prices ($40 any tree) and you can get your coffee, snacks and hot cocoas at Monte Cristo Espresso on the property. Makes for a great family event day!”

Facebook - Website


Promise Land

22502 Dubuque Rd, Snohomish, WA 98290

“Had big full trees. Free hot cocoa and marshmallows to roast on the fire. We've ended up here the last 2 years after driving around to see new places. The trees are a little pricier $65 to 90 but there is a good selection.”

Facebook

Lochsloy Acres Christmas Trees

5511 WA-92, Lake Stevens, WA 98258

“They have a great selection. Staff is super friendly, free hot cocoa and/or cider after you've found your tree. They also shake, bale the tree and will put it on your car for you. They provide sleds to pull the tree, gloves and a saw.”

Website

Red Rooster Ranch

12909 279th Ave NE, Granite Falls, WA 98252

“LOVE this place! The last couple of years the trees have been a bit shorter than what we look for.”

“Gorgeous setting and the friendliest of service.” Facebook



Stocker Farms- Christmas Trees

8705 Marsh Rd #2, Snohomish, WA 98296

Trees, u-cut, hot cocoa, garland, and wreaths!

“Great selection of Christmas trees. They shake and bail your tree for you for free. Their friendly customer service will have me coming back again!”

Website - Facebook




Wintergreen Tree Farm

13606 S Machias Rd, Snohomish, WA 98290

“Trees are not very tall in the u-cut area but everyone is very friendly. The kids loved the music from Tim Noah, saying hi to Santa, getting a hot dog from the food vendor and sitting by the big bonfire.”

Website - Facebook


Fish Creek Tree Farm

18420 3rd Ave NE, Arlington, WA 98223

“Huge selection. Relaxing environment. Great prices. No pressure to choose specific types of trees because the pricing was simple and based on height. We were able to get whatever tree we wanted that was as tall as me and knew we'd pay $30 or less. Kids were given candy canes and happily frolicked through the trees.”

Facebook

Dairyland

This is where we got our tree last year. Check out my post below!

Farmer Brown's Christmas Tree Farm

12017 109th Ave NE, Arlington, WA 98223

“We love farmer browns! We have been going here for years and by far is the best Christmas tree farm around! They have such a huge selection of trees and are always great every year! They have hand saws you can use or you can bring your own. They have a fire always going as well as hot chocolate and apple cider. They also have baked goods for sale as well as hotdogs. Staff is very helpful and this place makes Christmas tree hunting worth it!”

Website - Facebook


Long's Christmas Trees

5001 Riverview Rd, Snohomish, WA 98290

“Great experience and atmosphere. Friendly staff and complementary hot coco was a nice touch.”

Website - Facebook

Pilchuck Secret Valley Christmas

9533 Mose Rd, Arlington, WA 98223

“Been going here for years. It’s the best! Cash only though! They have a great selection and a nice little fire pit to warm your hands after you find the perfect tree to light up your house.”

Website - Facebook



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Novelty Hill Farms - Tree & Barn Lighting

My friend bought extra tickets to the Novelty Hill Farms Annual Tree and Barn Lighting so we decided to make the trek to Duvall in the name of holiday spirit. The place had a great small farm vibe with the rustic white barn, fire pit, and tractor.

My friend bought extra tickets to the Novelty Hill Farms Annual Tree and Barn Lighting so we decided to make the trek to Duvall in the name of holiday spirit. The place had a great small farm vibe with the rustic white barn, fire pit, and tractor.

Here are some of my favorite highlights from my night:

  • S’mores by the fire

  • Christmas Carols inside the hayloft of the barn

  • FREE pictures with Santa

  • Great group of vendors selling their crafts

  • Chavoya’s Hot Dogs available for sale

  • Delicious hot apple cider

  • Beautiful and healthy Christmas trees

Would I go back again? Absolutely.

Tip:

Wear boots; the parking lot was pretty muddy, but the area where the trees were was fine.



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Why Vote Yes? Building for Our Students’ Future Capital Bond - February 11, 2020

The Snohomish schools are over 40 years old and, while our teachers do the best they can to provide an excellent education to our students with the facilities available to them, the buildings are dated and need replacing.

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Election day is February 11th, 2020

Passing the $470 million school bond is integral to the future success of our town.

The Snohomish schools are over 40 years old and, while our teachers do the best they can to provide an excellent education to our students with the facilities available to them, the buildings are dated and need replacing.

This bond will build six new elementary schools as well as create additional classroom space at GPHS, renovate the AIM campus, and create a larger space for the Early Learning Center.

When communities stop showing support for their schools, property values decrease and students’ educational and career prospects decrease. We don’t want that here in Snohomish.

With schools improved, students, and subsequently our community, will benefit from higher quality education and a safer learning environment. These kids grow up to be tomorrow’s local business owners and community leaders.

I have four kids in Snohomish schools, and would be beyond grateful for our community’s support in providing all students, present and future, a high-quality education. For the cost of a few cups of coffee a month, you can be a part of making Snohomish an even better place to live. Vote Yes! for Snohomish Students by February 11th, 2020.

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The February 2020 bond will focus on:

Providing access and opportunity for each student

Funds from the bond will be used to replace our oldest elementary schools, so all students have the same access to an optimal learning environment no matter which school they attend.

Replaces six of our oldest elementary schools: Cascade View Elementary, Cathcart Elementary, Dutch Hill Elementary, Seattle Hill Elementary and Totem Falls Elementary. Central Primary Center and Emerson Elementary would be combined into one new K-6 facility on the Emerson site. Click here for a proposed timeline and projected project costs of the priority projects.

Add classrooms to Glacier Peak High School to minimize the reliance on portable classrooms.

Create an early learning center at the current Central Primary Center facility.

Improvements to the Parkway Campus, home to our alternative learning programs, such as AIM High School and Parent Partnership Program.

Improvements to the district’s maintenance and transportation facilities.

Enhancing school safety and security for students and schools

Funding is needed for security improvements to better ensure our children learn in a safe environment. The bond would provide upgrades to safety and security at schools throughout our district.

Safety and security upgrades are, but not limited to, exterior digital access control, internal access control, new district wide radio system, redesigned vestibules in secondary schools, new and upgrade existing camera systems, and emergency responder antennas at secondary schools.

Continuing community pride

This bond will ensure our schools continue to be a source of pride in our community. We know that the success of our students and quality schools are a reflection of our community and a source of pride.

What is the cost for the capital bond?

If approved by voters on February 11, 2020, the tax rate for the Snohomish School District's $470 million capital bond would be $0.98 per $1,000 of assessed valuation. In the Snohomish School District, the average assessed home value is $460,000. For a home assessed at $460,000, the cost would be about $450/year or $38/month. All funding approved by Snohomish voters stays local and is used to support education in the Snohomish School District.

How will this affect your property value?

To find out more: https://www.sno.wednet.edu/2020bond/faqs
To donate: http://www.yessnohomish.org/donate/
To help: contact Markmyers15@live.com



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