The Ocean Shores, WA Blog ~ Info & Real Estate

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

	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

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
www.OceanShoresInfo.com

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

Homes $150K to $200K

Homes over $200K

Waterfront Homes

Lots Under $20K

Lots $20K to $35K

Waterfront Lots

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).

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 around 5%.




UPCOMING EVENTS 

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 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 are 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 www.OceanShoresInfo.com

April Swenson
Coldwell Banker Ocean Shores
Associate Broker & Realtor
360-589-2777  cell
aswenson25@juno.com

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

Ocean Shores Event
Fireworks on the Beach for Independence Day ~ July 4th
Ocean Shores, WA

July 4, 2009 ~ Independence Day is one of the greatest and most amazing sites visitors and locals can see along the beaches of Ocean Shores and the North Beach. July 4th brings in the most number of tourists than any other weekend or event. The beaches are lined with cars and people packing it in as nightime arrives. The fireworks can be heard as the days lead up to the 4th, but America's birthday brings the most unbelievable sites you will see as the sky is lit up with tons of fireworks. There are personal firework displays one right after the other, with Ocean City providing the big firework display off of 2nd Ave, the beach access street. July 4th fell on a Saturday this year, and even though the fog rolled in, people still enoyed the sounds and sites. I enjoyed the evening and night with some friends around a camp fire, enjoyed good food, and joined in with the rest of the beach and shot off some of our own fountains, roman candles and high in the sky fireworks. I was able to get some great shots overseeing the action on the beach from my GMC Yukon. To all of those who have not spent July 4th in Ocean Shores -- you must come out and see it for yourself.

See more pictures of the Fireworks on the Beach in Ocean Shores

 

 

 

 

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

Here in Beautiful Ocean Shores ~ The #1 Beach Destination on the Washington Coast!

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

Ocean Shores Event
Annual Five Star Sand & Sawdust Festival
Ocean Shores, WA

June 26-28, 2009 ~ The Annual Five Star Sand & Sawdust Festival was held over the weekend in downtown Ocean Shores 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. The other entrants were the "The Alligator Pit," "A Fool's Castle" and "Bear-It Art." The Beginner's Division included a children's creation of "Sea Urchins"....check out the picture below of the child working on this sand sculpture. My personal favorites were "Some Assembly Required," the "Race Track," "The Castle & the Lockness Monster," and the "Skull" with its red bandana and silver covered tooth.
The crisp cedar smell light-up the air at the Woodcarving Competitions in front of the Convention Center, which always produces many pieces of art. Master Chainsaw Carvers from Europe, Japan, Australia, and throughout the United States compete for thousands of dollars in prizes. The Sawdust Competition took place from 9-4 on Friday and Saturday and 8-1 on Sunday. The Awards Ceremony was held on Sunday at 4pm. Internationally known auctioneer, Boaz Backus, conducted the Auctions at the end of each day's competition. You will have to wait until next year to have a chance to take home a piece of original art! Additional activities at the Convention Center included approximately 100 Food and Craft Vendors.

This is a must see event of the year (next to 4th of July)!

See more pictures of the Annual Ocean Shores Sand & Sawdust Festival

 

 

 

 

 

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

Here in Beautiful Ocean Shores ~ The #1 Beach Destination on the Washington Coast!

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

Ocean Shores Event
Flag Day Parade
Ocean Shores, WA

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. The Lt. Governor Brad Owen served as the Grand Marshall this year riding in a convertible. There were over 40 entries, including the Girl Scouts, the Habitat for Humaninty Float, the Tillicum Middle School marching band, and many more. What would a classic American parade without the classic and muscle cars.....from the early 1930's to the brand new Corvettes....these car owners revved their engines along the streets. The most impressive show was the traditional entry and most notable of all of the floats....the Pirate Ships. The parade ended with showcase of local heroes...police, fire and EMT workers and their vehicles. See the pictures below of the fun time. Also, the Cutting Edge Kites put on their traditional kite flying show at the Chance a La Mer beach approach.

See more pictures of the Ocean Shores Flag Day Parade 2009

 

 

 

 

 

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

Here in Beautiful Ocean Shores ~ The #1 Beach Destination on the Washington Coast!

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

Ocean Shores News
The Boardwalk Shops of Ocean Shores
A New Commercial Downtown Project
759 Pt Brown Ave NW, Ocean Shores, WA
** For Sale or Lease **

April 2009 ~ These Retail Commercial Shops are completed and 4 shops are now open! The Dusty Trunk, The Kite Shop, Beach Bum Sunglass Company, and Fashions For Fun have moved from prior locations into this more desirable location. See more pictures below.

Move-in Lease Specials: $600-$750/mo until December 31, 2009 if you sign a lease for 1 year. After 12/31/09, the lease will be $900-$1,100/mo.

August 2008 ~ The Boardwalk Shops of Ocean Shores breaks ground! Lease or Buy your own unit and be a part of this exciting new commercial project being built by Ocean Beach Construction.

Located in Washington's #1 beach destination of Downtown Ocean Shores fronting the busy main drag of Pt Brown Ave and backing Minard Ave. These commercial shops are centrally located: next door to the newer Coldwell Banker and Caffe Amici building; across Pt Brown Ave from Peppermint Parlor & BJ's Family Fun Center (ice cream parlor, go-cart track & bumper cars); across Minard Ave from the Miniature Golf & Family Fun Center; and kitty-corner to the large Convention Center.

This 1st phase consists of 7 individual retail commercial "Clam Shacks" with a 3,000 sq.ft. Boardwalk connecting all of the shops. There are 4 facing Pt Brown Ave (18' x 40' each) and 3 facing Minard Ave (24' x 30' each), but each shop has front and rear entrances onto the boardwalk. There is signage along Pt Brown Ave and Minard Ave with parking along both streets as well. There is easy access from both streets with paved parking lots.

 

 

This retail complex was built to have that "beach cottage look & feel" with the boardwalk flowing into a wood flooring of each unit, and the exterior features a different color for more eye appeal. Customers are able to roam from shop to shop with ease along the boardwalk. 

 

 

 

Each unit features 720 sq.ft. and a 1/2-bath (handicap accessible). Large Storage Closet next to the bathroom. There is plenty of natural light with glass doors in front and back, and the vaulted ceilings. The interiors have some great design features such as bead-board walls, wood-wrapped windows, upgraded laminate floorings, and Venetian-style plaster ceilings. Click here to see the specs list.  

 

 

These shops offer all that an investor and business owner could want: visibility, access, street appeal/draw for the public, quality, and affordability. Buy for only $149,000 (facing Minard Ave) or $169,000 (facing Pt Brown Ave). OR, Lease a unit for only $900 to $1,100 per month. See the specials listed in the 1st paragraph.

See more pictures of The Boardwalk Shops of Ocean Shores

 

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

Here in Beautiful Ocean Shores ~ The #1 Beach Destination on the Washington Coast!

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