The Ocean Shores, WA Blog ~ Info & Real Estate

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

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 14:44:50 -0700

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:

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!

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

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

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

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 14:06:59 -0700

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE

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

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

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 14:13:20 -0800

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

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

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

2009 NOTABLE NEWS/EVENTS

MERRY CHRISTMAS 2009

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

WINTER STORM 2009

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

INDEPENDENCE DAY 2009

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

SAND & SAWDUST FESTIVAL 2009

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

FLAG DAY PARADE 2009

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

THE BOARDWALK SHOPS of OCEAN SHORES GRAND OPENING

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

WINDSURFING at DAMON POINT

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

ROAD CONSTRUCTION 2009

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

NEW FIRE STATION OPENS 2009

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

BUDGET SHORTFALL 2009

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

OTHER NOTABLE LOCAL NEWS

The well-known and established gift shop, The Flying Cats, moved into the north-wing of the Coldwell Banker building in October.
Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties is the #1 listing and selling office in Grays Harbor County for 2008 and 2009 (per NWMLS data).

UPCOMING EVENTS

Tentative Clam Digs, Jan 29-31: dig razor clams on our local beaches.
Antique & Collectible Show, Feb 13-14: over 80 booths, seminars, etc are held at the Convention Center.
Beachcombers Fun Fair, Mar 6-7: beach walks, exhibits, seminars, children's activities, etc.

MARKET UPDATE

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

Homes Under $150K

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

OCEAN SHORES MARKET:

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

NORTH BEACH (Ocean City to Moclips) MARKET:

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

SOUTH BEACH (Westport/Grayland/Ocosta) MARKET:

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

LONG BEACH PENINSULA (Ilwaco to Surfside Estates) MARKET:

Homes Land Condos Multi-Family Commercial Total Current Listings 214 248 42 1 19 524 Pendings 15 5 3 1 1 25 Solds 168 64 14 2 5 253 Sold Volume $30.2M $3.37M $2.1M $660K $820K $37.15M Sold Median Price $159,500 $40K $141,500 $330K $135K NOTE: All of the above date was pulled from the NWMLS and is not guaranteed.

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

FINANCING NEWS

MOVE-UP HOME-BUYER CREDIT

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

The buyer(s) must have owned and resided in the same house for at least 5 consecutive years out of the last 8 years prior to the purchase date ("long-term resident"). For married taxpayers, both spouses must qualify as long-time residents.
Repeat home buyers do not have to purchase a home that is more expensive than their previous home to qualify for the tax credit.
The tax credit is equal to 10% of the home's purchase price up to a maximum of $6,500.
The income limit for single taxpayers is $125,000; the limit is $225,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return.
See your tax accountant for more information.

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

NEW RESPA RULES NOW IN EFFECT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fri, 25 Dec 2009 14:53:15 -0800

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

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 15:02:42 -0700

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

Welcome to Fall!

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

CRAFT FAIR 2009

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

ROAD CONSTRUCTION 2009

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

OTHER NOTABLE LOCAL NEWS

The well-known and established gift shop, The Flying Cats, is moving into the north-wing of the Coldwell Banker building
"Toast The Harbor" Food & Wine Festival has held over the weekend (Oct 10th) at the Ocean Shores Convention Center
Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties is still the #1 listing and selling office in Grays Harbor County (per NWMLS data)

MARKET UPDATE

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

Homes Under $150K

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FINANCING NEWS

Mortgage Insurance is Now Available for 2nd Homes:

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

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

Changes to Truth in Lending Requirements:

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

Here's a brief summary of the legislation:

The new rules require lenders to provide the initial Truth in Lending (TIL) disclosure or place it in the mail within three business days after receiving a consumer's application for a mortgage loan, and before any fees are collected from the consumer (other than a reasonable fee for obtaining the consumer's credit history).
The initial TIL is also required for loans secured by homes other than the consumer's principal residence, such as a second home.
The delivery or mailing of these disclosures must occur at least seven business days before the loan closes (loan documents signed).
If the annual percentage rate provided in the initial TIL given to the consumer changes more than 0.125%, lenders must provide corrected disclosures, which the borrower must receive at least three business days before signing loan documents.

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

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

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

The features:

The loan closes before the work begins.
The buyer has up to six months to complete the repairs or remodeling.
Down payments as low as 3.5%.
Less stringent qualifying requirements than conforming loans.

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

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 During Labor Day Weekend on September 6, 2009

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 15:20:38 -0700

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

Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:47:04 -0700

OCEAN SHORES REAL ESTATE NEWS

Mortgage Insurance is Now Available for Purchasing Vacation/2nd Homes with less than 20% Down

Mortgage Insurance is now available on 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

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

Presented By:
Carol Warfield
VP Real Estate Loan Representative
Central Region
300 E Market Street | PO Box 1826 | Aberdeen, WA 98520
P: 360.537.4044 | C: 360.580.0187 | F: 360.533.0489 |

CWarfield@BankofthePacific.com
Visit our website at www.BankofthePacific.com

Writing from beautiful Ocean Shores!

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

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

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:29:30 -0700

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

A Short Brief on Washington Coast Towns: Ocean Shores, North Beach, Westport/South Beach

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 12:02:11 -0700

OCEAN SHORES, Washington is a peninsula that stretches along the Pacific Ocean and Grays Harbor. With over 6 miles of full-access sandy beaches and over 23 miles of interconnecting fresh water canals and lakes, this place has become one of the top tourist destinations in Washington, as well as becoming one of the top investment communities along the West Coast.

The NORTH BEACH stretches north of Ocean Shores along State Route 109 from Ocean City to Moclips.

WESTPORT lies directly across Grays Harbor Bay from Ocean Shores. It's greatest industry is fishing, which is operated from the Marina, and being home to the Westport Shipyards. The SOUTH BEACH includes Westport, Grayland, and Ocosta.

Please take this opportunity to search for Ocean Shores & surrounding beach communities real estate, pictures and much more information about these towns on my web site at www.OceanShoresInfo.com

Ocean Shores Events for 2009 ~ List Provided by April Swenson, Ocean Shores Realtor

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 12:11:04 -0700

Ocean Shores Events for 2009
Provided by April Swenson

Antique & Collectibles Show

February 14-15

7th Annual Show offers seminars, expert evaluations, and over 80 booths of collectibles and antiques.

Beachcombers Fun Fair

March 7-8

22nd Annual event features exhibits, seminars, information booths and vendors. The kids' science fair is held on Saturday morning. Enjoy beach walks on Sunday morning.

Razor Clam Festival

March 27-28

Top chefs from the area restaurants bring their best clam chowder and entrees for a chance at "The Best on the North Beach." Vendor and food booths, music and more. A great family event!

Photo & Fine Arts Show

April 3-5

Artists and photographers from all over the United States enter this show to win prizes and show their unique photos and works of art. For more information, visit www.associatedarts.org.

Country Music Jam

May 2-3

Attention all musicians and vocalists! Dust off your guitar, fiddle or banjo. Join us for a weekend of music and fun with a dance on Saturday night. For more information, visit www.oceanshoresact.com.

Kite Challenge, Flag Day Parade & Dance

June 13

A full day of activities! The Kite Challenge is sponsered by "Team Cutting Edge Kites" ~ 2005 & 2006 World Champion Winners. Free kite flying lessons, stunt competitions, fun flies, displays and more.
Also honor our Nation's flag with an old-fashioned parade. Over 50 entrants parade through the streets of downtown Ocean Shores. Dance to live music from 7-11pm at the Convention Center. For more information, visit www.oceanshoresact.com.

Five Star Sand & Sawdust Festival

June 26-28

Master woodcarvers from all over the world come to compete in this annual competition. Auctions held daily. Visit the beach where artists compete for the best sand sculpture on Saturday. Free sand-sculpting lessons given on Friday. For more information, visit www.oceanshoresact.com.

Picnic & Fire O'er the Water

July 3-4

Celebrate our Nation's Independence Day with a community sponsored picnic on the 3rd. Enjoy games, prizes, food and fun. Stay over for the best fireworks show on the coast at Ocean City. For more information, visit www.oceanshoresact.com.

Big Weekend Triathlon & Footfest

July 11-12

4th Annual event features 1/2-Iron Triathlon, Olympic Triathlon, Sprint Triathlon, Half Marathon, 10K Run and 5K Run. For more information, visit www.trifreak.com.

Sun & Surf Run

July 24-26

Listen to the roar as Ocean Shores welcomes over 2,000 motorcycles for the weekend. Enjoy stunt riders, mortorcycle parades, bonfire & fireworks on the beach, and vendors. For more information, visit www.sunandsurfevent.com.

Arts & Crafts Festival

September 11-13

41st Annual event includes over 120 indoor and outdoor booths featuring thousands of handcrafted items by gifted artists and talented craftspeople. For more information, visit www.associatedarts.org.

Paddle the Shores

September 19-20

Paddle activities on the lakes and canals of Ocean Shores. A race, a Poker Paddle, cardboard boat race, seminars, boat try-outs, boating gear and a picnic on Sunday. For more information, visit www.oceanshoresact.com or call 360-289-5632.

Whale of a Quilt Show

October 2-4

Sea-Pals Quilters show offers vendors, handmade quilts, demonstrations and quilted items. The show is judged and prizes awarded. Free admission.

Dixieland Jazz Festival

November 6-8

United States and Canadian jazz bands offer over 65 hours of live jazz at several venues throughout Ocean Shores. For more information, call the Jazz Hotline at 360-289-4094.

Winter Fanta-Sea Craft Show

November 27-29

Kick off your holiday shopping. The Convention Center is filled with over 70 arts and crafts booths featuring handmade arts and crafts just in time for Christmas.

North Beach Singers Christmas Cantata

December 11-12

The North Beach Singers present Yuletide favorites to bring in the Christmas Season. Free admission.

April Swenson Earns Certifications: New Homes Specialist & Residential Construction Certified

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 12:19:35 -0700

March 2007 ~ April Swenson has completed the real estate industry's most comprehensive new home sales course to earn the national certifications as a Certified New Home Specialist^TM and as a Residential Construction Certified^TM. With these certifications, April joins a group dedicated to providing the highest level of professionalism and service to builders and new home buyers.

The training covered architectural design and planning, blueprint reading, topography, building site design, evaluating quality construction, materials, methods, construction terminology and scheduling. She also studied successful buyer/builder relations, all aspects of customer service and the use of various oragnizational tools and systems. April will be able to do a much better job in helping builders market new homes and home buyers make their best decisions.

Completion of these training courses involves over 30 hours of interactive computer-based course work and a 90% or better score on the certification tests. These courses were created by Dennis Walsh, who is recognized internationally as a leading authority in all aspects of new home sales and marketing, and residential construction.

Ocean Shores Summer Events ~ The American Kitefliers Association Convention 2007

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 12:23:12 -0700

October 1-6, 2007 ~ The American Kitefliers Association held their 30th Annual Convention in Ocean Shores, WA. This Convention is a gathering of roughly 500 AKA members from around the world, including Japan and Australia, and is said to be the largest kite gathering in the world. This Convention is held in different locations around the United States each year. Ocean Shores was last visited by these awesome kite fliers and competitors in 1998. The first annual Convention was held in Ocean City, Maryland in September 1978. The largest attraction is the Grand National kite competitions for kite making and sport kite flying. You can visit the association's web site at www.aka.kite.org.
The site was incredible with a scene direct from Under the Sea with octopi, a scuba diver, sharks, sea dragon and more. The world record was broken with 16 octopi flying in the sky. The weather was gorgeous on Friday the 5th with a great kite-flying Ocean breeze and the warm sun highlighting these massive kites.

See more pictures at www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/kitefestival2007.html

North Beach News ~ The Connor Creek Bridge Opens in Copalis Beach, WA

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 12:54:23 -0700

North Beach News
Connor Creek Bridge Opens
Copalis Beach, WA

November 16, 2007 ~ The Connor Creek Bridge was dedicated and opened to the public on this day. Located at the end of Heath Rd off State Highway 109 in the North Beach town of Copalis Beach by the subdivision of Haven-by-the-Sea (just 5 miles north of Ocean Shores), this bridge will provide easy foot access to local residents and tourists, as well as emergency vehicles. It was constructed through the cooperation of the Washington State Parks, County and Local officials. The State Legislature appropriated about $334,000 through the State Parks capital budget. It will be maintained and managed by Grays Harbor County. Over the past several years, Connor Creek shifted north about four miles, cutting off beach access in Copalis Beach. But with this new bridge comes more selling opportunities for those looking for an affordable beach home in a small seaside town.

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

Ocean Shores News ~ Total Lunar Eclipse

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 13:04:05 -0700

Ocean Shores Event
Total Lunar Eclipse
Ocean Shores, WA

February 20, 2008 ~ Ocean Shores was evident to a grand sight this night with the Total Lunar Eclipse. With perfectly clear skies, I, April Swenson, watched the total eclipse and took these pictures down by the Jetty. The eclipse began at about 5:45pm and ended at about 9pm. The Total Eclipse lasted for about 50 minutes between 7 and 7:50pm and was a sight to see with its deep redish-orange color. With very few city lights, the eclipse could be seen, along with the constellations, in its full glory.

See more pictures and info at http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/news/lunareclipse2008.html

Ocean Shores Summer Events ~ Flag Day Parade 2008

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 13:06:05 -0700

Ocean Shores Event
Flag Day Parade
Ocean Shores, WA

June 14, 2008 ~ Ocean Shores honors Old Glory by holding its annual Flag Day Parade with the 2008 Miss Washington Elyse Umemoto as the Grand Marshal. This year had over 50 entries. Two of the most enjoyable, and classic parts of any parade, were the marching bands. They traveled all the way from Everett (Explorer Middle School) and Tillicum (Tillicum Middle School) to entertain us and they displayed their great talent. Some of the notable floats were the Pirate Ships and their Crews, the Rock-n-Roll float playing music from Elvis Presley, and the Habitat for Humanity float, which has a great presence in this County. The more whimsical entries were the miniature/carnival airplane, the dune buggies, and the bumber car with four Flags flying. What would a parade be without the showcase of America's passion and inovation ~ cars! Rows of Corvettes, PT Cruisers and Classic Cars, such as a 1940's Packard, were displayed and their engines revved.
Also a site to see was the Kite Challenge, which took place on the beach in downtown Ocean Shores.

See more pictures at http://www.oceanshoresinfo.com/pics/flagdayparade2008.html