Mike Arthur - Realtor

New Ferndale listing! 5 Beds, 3.5 Bath, 3307 SQ FT https://myre.io/0ItJZnWHODtj
Come see this 'nearly new' gem in the desirable Gabi’s Lane development. Walking distance to schools, minutes from downtown/I-5. Enjoy natural light in this beautifully designed home complete with move in ready secondary suite or rentable income unit. Main level offers a modern open floor plan with large kitchen, living room with fireplace and a home office. The spacious primary bedroom has a walk-in closet and a beautifully tiled en suit bathroom featuring dual vanities. Front and back yards landscaped with love. Enjoy views of Mt. Baker from the front deck. Quartz countertops throughout, stainless steel appliances, under cabinet lighting, BBQ hookup, Rinnai tankless water heater, high efficiency gas furnace upgraded with central AC. Welcome home!
https://myre.io/0ItJZnWHODtj

2145 Gabi's Lane, Ferndale, WA, 98248 Come see this rare gem in the desirable Gabi’s Ln d...

This painting of Sting always reminds me of his great song “King Of Pain” from the fabulous ‘Synchronicity’ album by The Police. One of the best albums of the 1980s IMO. The haunting & distinct lyrics of the song reflect Sting’s mental state at the time after a painful split from his 1st wife…
There’s a little black spot on the sun today
That’s my soul up there (the refrain verse)

It’s one of those rare memories where I recall exactly what I was doing the first time I heard the gripping lyrics and music of this song. I was in my car running errands when ‘KOP’ was on the radio. I zipped to the nearest music store, bought the album and spent the rest of the sunny summer afternoon enjoying the album while bombing around in my 1953 MG with the top down. I picked up a friend and we ended up at Anthony’s restaurant on the waterfront in Edmonds for the sunset. We enjoyed some snacks and our usual martini, the Kamikaze ‘6-Pac’ – a specialty Anthony’s offered for fun-loving patrons. Thanks for the memory Sting!!!

I couldn’t find a suitable live version of the song but you can listen to the studio version, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZlRX03BzeA

What 1980’s album would you choose as one of the best of the 1980s?

A Smaller Home Could Be Your Best Option
Many people are reaching the point in their lives when they need to decide where they want to live when they retire. If you’re a homeowner approaching this stage, you have several options to explore. Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and Vice President of Research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says:
“As we see the transition of the large Baby Boomer generation age into retirement, it will be interesting to see if they move in with their Millennial and Gen Z children or if they stay put in their own homes.”

Lautz lists two options: move into a multigenerational home with loved ones, or stay in your current house. Multigenerational living is rising in popularity, but it isn’t an option for everyone. And staying put may fit fewer and fewer of your needs. There’s a third option though, and for some, it’s the best one: downsizing.

When you sell your house and purchase a smaller one, it’s known as downsizing. Sometimes smaller homes are more suited to your changing needs, and moving means you can also land in your ideal location.

In addition to the personal benefits, downsizing might be more cost effective, too. The New York Times (NYT) shares:

“Many downsizers expect to improve their retirement income stream if their new home costs less than what their old house sells for. Lower utility costs, insurance and property taxes — as well as investment returns on the proceeds — can also improve the bottom line.”

Being in a strong financial position is one of the most important parts of retirement, and downsizing can make a big difference.

A key part of why downsizing is still cost effective today, even when mortgage rates are higher than they were a year ago, is the record-high level of equity homeowners have. Leveraging your equity when you downsize can lower or maybe even eliminate the mortgage payment on your next home.

So, not only is the upkeep of a smaller home likely more affordable, but leveraging your home equity could make a big difference too. Your local real estate advisor is the best resource to help you understand how much equity you may have in your current home and what options it can provide for your next move.

Bottom Line
If you’re a homeowner getting ready for retirement, part of that transition likely includes deciding where you’ll live. Work with a trusted advisor to understand your options and explore your downsizing opportunities.

If you're downsizing, I'll get you max proceeds and find your best option! 425-495-5734