Bellingham Real Estate

Whatcom County Real Estate Market Report for February, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:25:00 +0000

The following is an analysis of the Whatcom County real estate market.

There are currently 1446 homes for sale
Homes are priced from $16,000 - $4,400,000
Average Asking Price $407,864 Days on Market: 132 days
Median Asking Price $328,500 Days on Market: 74 days
Homes Pending (went under contract) last week: 61 Total Condos Pending: 373

	February 2010	February 2009	January 2010
Homes sold	95	92	97
Average Sold Price	258,678	307,992	277,881
Median Sold Price	244,900	254,990	245,000
Ave. Days on the Market	96	101	99

The Average Sales price is down 16.0% compared to February, 09 and down 6.9% compared to the previous month January, 2010. The Median Sales prices is down 3.9% compared to February, 09 and $100 less than the previous month January, 2010. The number of sales is down 5 compared to February, 09 and down 3 compared to the previous month January, 2010. Condo Analysis for Whatcom County

Currently Active Listings: 411
Price range of active listings - $19,000 - $1,395,000
Average List Price $233,105 Days on Market: 164
Median List Price $180,000 Days on Market: 131
Condos Pending (went under contract) last week: 8 Total Condos Pending: 61

	February 2010	February 2009	January 2010
Homes sold	10	16	13
Average Sold Price	215,307	182,110	230,346
Median Sold Price	183,085	164,500	194,000
Ave. Days on the Market	146	151	118

The Average Sales price is up 18.2% compared to February, 09, and down 6.5% compared to the previous month January, 2010. The Median Sales prices is up 11.0% compared to February, 09 and down5.6 % compared to the previous month January, 2010. The number of sales is down 6 compared to February, 09 and down 3 compared to the previous month January, 2010. Pending sales are up again, But prices are falling again The First Time Home Buyer’s Tax Credit of $8,000 available to anyone who hasn’t owned a home in the past 3 years has been extended until April 2010. The new program has also expanded the tax credit to include existing home owners who have owned a home for at least five of the last 8 years. You will be able to apply for tax credits of up to $6,500 when you purchase your next home. You might want to talk to your banker to see what you can afford. Meanwhile interest rates are still extremely low and there are some great values in the Bellingham market right now. You might want to take a look at what it would cost you to purchase one of these homes at today’s rates. You might be surprised at what your monthly payments would be, maybe less than your paying for rent right now if you are renting a comparable sized house. If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981

Bellingham Real Estate Market Report for February, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:16:00 +0000

The following is a quick analysis of the Residential Bellingham real estate market.

Currently Active Listings: 473
Price range of active listings - $90,000 - $3,600,000
Average List Price $486,705 Days on the Market: 112
Median List Price: $385,000 Days on the Market: 56
Sold in February: 46
Average List Price: $302,728
Average Sales Price: $293,423 Days on the Market: 95
Ratio of List to Price 96.8%
Median List Price: $255,250
Median Sales Price: $250,000 Days on the Market: 74
Ratio of List to Price: 96.4%
Pending Sales Last Week: 23 Total pending sales: 130

Average Sales Price February 2009: $334,974
Median Sales Price February 2009: $279,500
Number Sold in February 2009: 37

The Average Sales price is down 12.4% compared to February 09 and down 12.9% compared to the previous month January 2010.

The Median Sales prices is down 10.5% compared February 09 and down 6.4% compared to the previous month January 2010.

The number of sales is up 11 compared to February 2009 and down 44 compared to the previous month January 2010.

Condo Analysis for Bellingham

Currently Active Listings: 248
Price range of active listings - $90,000 - $1,395,000
Average List Price $245,189 Days on the Market: 161
Median List Price $184,608 Days on the Market: 192
Sold in February : 12
Average List Price: $240,879
Average Sales Price: $232,631 Days on the Market: 134
Ratio of List to Price: 96.6%
Median List Price: $192,950
Median Sales Price: $183,085 Days on the Market: 63
Ratio of List to Price: 94.9%
Pending Sales Last Week: 5Total pending sales: 34

Average Sales Price February, 2009: $228,849
Median Sales Price February, 2009: $209,500
Sold in February, 2009: 13

Average Condo sale price is up 1.7% from February, 2009 and down 4.8% from the previous month - January 2010.

Median Sales Price is down 12.5% from February, 2009 and down 16.4% from the previous month - January 2010.

The number of sales is down 1 compared to February, 2009 and up 1 compared to the previous month - January 2010.

If you look at the graph you can see that the residential market price is heading down a bit. We're still up 3.3% since 2005

Will the roller coaster ride of prices continue?........Tune in next month

The First Time Home Buyer’s Tax Credit of $8,000 available to anyone who hasn’t owned a home in the past 3 years has been extended until April 2010. The new program has also expanded the tax credit to include existing home owners who have owned a home for at least five of the last 8 years. You will be able to apply for tax credits of up to $6,500 when you purchase your next home. You might want to talk to your banker to see what you can afford. Meanwhile interest rates are still extremely low and there are some great values in the Bellingham market right now. You might want to take a look at what it would cost you to purchase one of these homes at today’s rates. You might be surprised at what your monthly payments would be, maybe less than your paying for rent right now if you are renting a comparable sized house.

If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981

Sudden Valley Real Estate Market – February 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:11:00 +0000

The following is a quick analysis of the Sudden Valley Real Estate Market.

There are currently 96 homes for sale. Homes are priced from $109,900 - $789,000

Average Asking Price is $302,759 Average Days on Market is 112
Median Asking Price is $272,450 Median Days on Market is 77
Sold in February: 9
Average Listing Price $252,021
Average Sold Price $246,055 Average Days on Market69
Median Listing Price $239,000
Median Sold Price $239,000 Median Days on Market 67
Pending Sales Last Week: 6 Total pending sales: 29

Average Sales Price February, 2009: $293,784
Median Sales Price February, 2009: $312,450
Sold in February, 2009: 10

The Average Sales price is down 16.2% compared to February, 09 and down 12.9% compared to last month - January, 2010.

The Median Sales prices is down 23.5% compared to February, 09 and down 12.8% compared to last month - January, 2010.

The number of sales down 1 compared to February, 09 and is up 2 units compared to last month - January, 2010.

Condo Analysis for Sudden Valley

There are currently 12 condos for sale. Condos are priced from $62,500 - $325,000

Average List Price $180,467 Average Days on the Market: 131
Median List Price $183,700 Median Days on the Market: 98
Sold in February: 0
Average Listing Price $139,500
Average Sold Price $132,500 Average Days on Market 67
Median Listing Price $139,500
Median Sold Price $132,500 Median Days on Market 67
Pending Sales Last Week: 1 Total pending sales: 1

Sold in February, 2009: 0

Sudden Valley Sales prices are down a bit this month, there are some great deals available there right now.

If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981

Bellingham Real Estate Market Report for January, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 19:36:00 +0000

The following is a quick analysis of the Residential Bellingham real estate market.

Currently Active Listings: 443
Price range of active listings - $90,000 – $3,450,000
Average List Price $475,444 Days on the Market: 124
Median List Price: $379,000 Days on the Market: 86
Sold in January: 28
Average List Price: $347,966
Average Sales Price: $336,964 Days on the Market: 73
Ratio of List to Price 96.8%
Median List Price: $276,950
Median Sales Price: $267,000 Days on the Market: 63
Ratio of List to Price: 96.4%
Pending Sales Last Week: 22 Total pending sales: 108

Average Sales Price January 2000: $294,064
Median Sales Price January 2009: $287,500
Number Sold in January 2009: 38

The Average Sales price is up 14.5% compared to January 09 and up 2.5% compared to the previous month December 09.

The Median Sales prices is down 6.2% compared January 09 and down 2.8% compared to the previous December 09.

The number of sales is down 10 compared to January 2009 and down 44 compared to the previous month December 09.

Condo Analysis for Bellingham

Currently Active Listings: 241
Price range of active listings – $105,000 – $1,565,000
Average List Price $236,703 Days on the Market: 146
Median List Price $179,900 Days on the Market: 181
Sold in January: 11
Average List Price: $257,509
Average Sales Price: $244,455 Days on the Market: 120
Ratio of List to Price: 97.1%
Median List Price: $229,900
Median Sales Price: $219,000 Days on the Market: 89
Ratio of List to Price: 99.5%
Pending Sales Last Week: 4 Total pending sales: 27

Average Sales Price January, 2009: $210,200
Median Sales Price January, 2009: $209,500
Sold in January, 2009: 23

Average Condo sale price is up 16.2% from January 2009 and up 26.6% from the previous month – December 2009

Median Sales Price is up 4.7% from January 2009 and up 33.5% from the previous month – December 2009.

The number of sales is down 22 compared to January 2009 and down 8 compared to the previous month – December 09.

If you look at the graph you can see that the residential and condo market prices have taken a slight up tick.

Will the roller coaster ride of prices continue?……..Tune in next month

Homes under $300,00 have been selling well and itt seems like the higher end of the market which has been pretty stagnant is starting to move again as well. The absorption rates have gone down meaning number of homes sold per month over a particular period of time has gone down. The number of months to sell is a reflection of the absorption rate, how long it will take to sell the current inventory at the said absorption rate.

Will the roller coaster ride of prices continue?……..Tune in next month

If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981

Olympic Torch Will Be at Blaine’s Peace Arch Park

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 20:52:00 +0000

The Olympic torch will be making a stop at Blaine’s Peace Arch Park on Tuesday, Feb. 9., it will be there at 7:20 am so you better get there early. The events are free and include entertainment.

Olympic torch is a symbol of the Olympic Games. In 1936, Carl Diem, the chairman of the organizing committee for the 1936 Games, suggested what is now the modern Olympic Torch relay. The Olympic flame is lit at the ancient site of Olympia by women wearing ancient-style robes and using a curved mirror and the sun, it is then passed along from runner to runner from this ancient site to the Olympic stadium in the hosting city. The flame is kept lit until the end of the Games.

If you miss it there it will be making it’s way to Vancouver over the next few days at these locations.

“Abbotsford: The party will begin at 5:45 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 7, at Abbotsford Exhibition Park, not far north of Sumas. The torch is expected to arrive at about 7 p.m., followed by a cauldron lighting. Parking at the site will be limited, and the event is scheduled to run until 8 p.m.

Surrey: The torch is expected to arrive at about 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 8, at Surrey’s Holland Park. A community torch celebration will begin at 5:45 p.m.

White Rock: The torch will pass through White Rock starting at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 9. White Rock firefighters will host a fundraiser pancake breakfast from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the White Rock Community Centre, 15154 Russell Ave. Olympic athletes from the region will sign autographs.

Peace Arch Park: At about 7:20 a.m. Tuesday, the torch comes to Peace Arch Provincial Park, just across the border. Take exit 276 off Interstate 5 and head to Peace Arch State Park to get one of about 200 parking spaces. Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire and British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell are scheduled to be there.”

Image by Getty Images via DaylifeThe

Whatcom County and Lummi Nation Reach Deal on Lummi Island Ferry

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 22:04:00 +0000

It looks like life will continue without disruptions for the roughly 1,000 permanent residents of Lummi Island. Whatcom County officials and the Lummi Nation have announced an agreement on a new long-term lease for the Gooseberry Point ferry dock, ensuring uninterrupted ferry service between Gooseberry Point and Lummi.

The current lease expires Feb. 14, and thing were looking shaky for island residents. The County even did a tet run to Fairhaven.

Rumor has it that fares and schedules for the Whatcom Chief ferry may change once a final, long-term deal is done.

Tribal leaders have recently stated their goal was the eventual relocation of the ferry dock, and they expressed reluctance to consider any lease renewal beyond five years. But Tuesday's announcement said the tribe and county have reached "a conceptual agreement for a 25-year lease with an option to renew for an additional 25 years……………………..Both the Lummi Nation and Whatcom County are committed to continuing to work in a spirit of cooperation to develop a final agreement in a timely manner,"

So if you’re considering a move to Lummi Island, you won’t have to worry about whether or not you’ll have a way to get to your new home. The ferry will be around for many years to come.

If your interested in Lummi Island homes give me a call, there are some great deals there.

Bellingham Real Estate Market Report for December, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 18:33:00 +0000

The following is a quick analysis of the Residential Bellingham real estate market.

Currently Active Listings: 405
Price range of active listings - $90,000 - $3,450,000
Average List Price $472,24090 Days on the Market: 135
Median List Price: $378,000 Days on the Market: 97
Sold in December: 72
Average List Price: $341,735
Average Sales Price: $328,616 Days on the Market: 85
Ratio of List to Price96.1%
Median List Price: $288,000
Median Sales Price: $280,000 Days on the Market: 62
Ratio of List to Price: 97.2%
Pending Sales Last Week: 15 Total pending sales: 97

Average Sales Price December 2008: $323,399
Median Sales Price December 2008: $259,000
Number Sold in December 2008: 49

The Average Sales price is up 1.6% compared to December 08 and down 12.1% compared to the previous month November 09.

The Median Sales prices is up 8.1% compared December 08 and down 1.9% compared to the previous November 09.

The number of sales is up by 23 compared to December 2008 and down by 15 compared to the previous month November 09.

Condo Analysis for Bellingham

Currently Active Listings: 233
Price range of active listings - $109,900 - $1,565,000
Average List Price $244,603 Days on the Market: 158
Median List Price $183,000 Days on the Market: 156
Sold in December: 19
Average List Price: $198,700
Average Sales Price: $193,038 Days on the Market: 114
Ratio of List to Price: 97.1%
Median List Price: $164,900
Median Sales Price: $164,000 Days on the Market: 73
Ratio of List to Price: 99.5%
Pending Sales Last Week: 9 Total pending sales: 23

Average Sales Price December, 2008: $200,792
Median Sales Price December, 2008: $184,900
Sold in December, 2008: 17

Average Condo sale price is down 3.8% from December 2008 and down 3.4% from the previous month - November 2009

Median Sales Price is down 18.3% from December 2008 and down 6.3% from the previous month - November 2009.

The number of sales is down 2 compared to December 2008 and up 4 compared to the previous month November 09.

If you look at the graph you can see that prices the residential market have gone up in the first part of the year than took a dip, climbed back up and took a dip again in December. Condos went up and pretty much came down. Will the roller coaster ride of prices continue?........Tune in next month

Homes under $300,00 have been selling well and it seems like the higher end of the market which has been pretty stagnant is starting to move again as well. The absorption rates have gone down meaning number of homes sold per month over a particular period of time has gone down. The number of months to sell is a reflection of the absorption rate, how long it will take to sell the current inventory at the said absorption rate.

Will the roller coaster ride of prices continue?........Tune in next month

If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981

Whatcom County Real Estate Market Report for December, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 00:26:00 +0000

The following is an analysis of the Whatcom County real estate market.

There are currently 1221 homes for sale
Homes are priced from $15,000 - $4,500,000
Average Asking Price $405,519 Days on Market: 151 days
Median Asking Price $320,000 Days on Market: 112 days
Homes sold in December: 168
Average Listing Price $306,316
Average Sold Price $286,867 Days on Market 110
Median Listing Price $255,4500
Median Sold Price $247,750 Days on Market: 78
Homes Pending this week: 33 Total Homes Pending: 277

Average Sales Price December 2008: $303,077
Median Sales Price December 2008: $257,500
Sold in December 2008: 115

The Average Sales price is down 5.3% compared to December 08 and down 9.8% compared to last month.

The Median Sales prices is down 3.8% compared to December 08 and down 1.9% compared to last month.

The number of sales is up by 53 compared to December 08 and up by 36 compared to last month.

Condo Analysis for Whatcom County

Currently Active Listings: 351
Price range of active listings - $22,000 - $1,565,000
Average List Price $232,883 Days on Market: 177
Median List Price $184,316 Days on Market: 152
Sold in December: 28
Average Listing Price $190,818
Average Sold Price $184,538 Days on Market: 112
Median Listing Price $164,950
Median Sold Price $159,635 Days on Market: 71
Condos Pending (went under contract) last week: 6 Total Condos Pending: 41

Average Sales Price December 2008: $205,532
Median Sales Price December 2008: $192,925
Sold in December 2008: 22

The Average Sales price is down 10.2% compared to December 08, and down by 9.8% compared to last month.

The Median Sales prices is down by 17.1% compared to December 08 and down by 18.8% compared to last month.

The number of sales is up by 6 compared to December 08 and up by 3 compared to last month.

Looks like the market activity started picking up a bit to the end of the year, I think the $8000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers to help stimulate the market this year. The number of foreclosures is increasing as well as the number of short sales. Predictions are we will see more of both of these in 2010. The higher end of the market started to pick up at the close of the year as well. Although the exception rates are still relatively high at the higher end of the market they have come down considerably from the beginning of the year and last year.

If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981

Whatcom County Real Estate Market Report for December, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 00:17:00 +0000

The following is an analysis of the Whatcom County real estate market.

There are currently 1221 homes for sale
Homes are priced from $15,000 - $4,500,000
Average Asking Price $405,519 Days on Market: 151 days
Median Asking Price $320,000 Days on Market: 112 days
Homes sold in December: 168
Average Listing Price $306,316
Average Sold Price $286,867 Days on Market 110
Median Listing Price $255,4500
Median Sold Price $247,750 Days on Market: 78
Homes Pending this week: 33 Total Homes Pending: 277

Average Sales Price December 2008: $303,077
Median Sales Price December 2008: $257,500
Sold in December 2008: 115

The Average Sales price is down 5.3% compared to December 08 and down 9.8% compared to last month.

The Median Sales prices is down 3.8% compared to December 08 and down 1.9% compared to last month.

The number of sales is up by 53 compared to December 08 and up by 36 compared to last month.

Condo Analysis for Whatcom County

Currently Active Listings: 351
Price range of active listings - $22,000 - $1,565,000
Average List Price $232,883 Days on Market: 177
Median List Price $184,316 Days on Market: 152
Sold in December: 28
Average Listing Price $190,818
Average Sold Price $184,538 Days on Market: 112
Median Listing Price $164,950
Median Sold Price $159,635 Days on Market: 71
Condos Pending (went under contract) last week: 6 Total Condos Pending: 41

Average Sales Price December 2008: $205,532
Median Sales Price December 2008: $192,925
Sold in December 2008: 22

The Average Sales price is down 10.2% compared to December 08, and down by 9.8% compared to last month.

The Median Sales prices is down by 17.1% compared to December 08 and down by 18.8% compared to last month.

The number of sales is up by 6 compared to December 08 and up by 3 compared to last month.

If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981

Absorption Rates for Bellingham – 1-4-09

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 00:14:00 +0000

Absorption rate is average number of homes sold per month over a particular period of time. The months to sell is a reflection of the absorption rate, how long it will take to sell the current inventory at the said absorption rate.

The Pending Ratio is the number of homes currently under contract compared to the number of homes available for sale .

This is a very interesting way to look at the market, as of today:

Average List Price $479,973 Days on the market 136

Median List Price $379,000 Days on the market 95

Bellingham and Whatcom County Golf Courses

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 00:15:00 +0000

Whatcom County has some of the best public and private golf courses in Western Washington. Many of the courses have earned praise from major golf magazines and travel publications and have hosted many pro and amateur tournaments. Western Washington’s temperate climate offers year-round play, just be prepared for any kind of weather. Many of the courses provide stunning views of Mount Baker or the San Juan Islands.

Here is a comprehensive list of the Golf Courses throughout the county, starting in and around Bellingham.

Lake Padden Golf Course has been rated by Golf Digest as one of the best municipal courses in the state. It is a beautiful 18 hole golf course that has been created in a second growth forest on the south end of Bellingham off Samish Way. The Lake Padden Golf Course is a public course that is owned by the City of Bellingham. It offers 18 holes with a driving range and putting green.

The Bellingham Golf and Country Club is a private golf course conveniently located in the heart of the city at the north end of Bellingham off Meridian St. A creek flows through the course, and water hazards come into play on seven holes. The Bellingham Golf and Country Club offers 18 holes and has a driving range.

The North Bellingham Golf Course is a public golf course located off the Smith Road in the Guide Meridian area of Bellingham. The North Bellingham Golf Course has flowering meadows and gently rolling fairways and panoramic views of Mt. Baker. The North Bellingham Golf Course offers 18 holes and a driving range.

The Shuksan Golf Club is a public golf course named after one of the Cascade peaks in the near distance, Mt. Shuksan. It is in a rural setting split by Ten Mile Creek, which meanders through the fairways with alarming regularity. The course varies over 100 feet in elevation with terrain ranging from steep ridges to gentle meadows. The Shuksan Golf Club won Golf Digest’s 2008 & 2009 “Places to Play” Four Star Award. It offers 18 holes with a driving range and putting green. It is located near Lynden.

The Sudden Valley Golf and Country Club is a public golf course located along the shores of Lake Whatcom. The front nine is relatively open and flat and borders the lake, the back nine follows a ridge uphill with narrow evergreen-fringed fairways and smaller greens that have more character. The course has water hazards on fourteen of the eighteen holes and some forty-seven bunkers sprinkled throughout the course. The Sudden Valley Golf and Country Club has a driving range and putting green.

The Hitting Zone is Bellingham’s premier golf driving range. It is located in the heart of Barkley Village and has quality facilities and professional service.

Pro Golf Center Golf Course Guide Meridian Rd. This “pitch and putt” course has some trees that can alter your shots, but no other hazards. This is an excellent course for junior and senior golfers. Additionally, this is a good course to work on your short game.

Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club was rated Washinton’s #3 public course by Golf Digest in 2005, for its immaculately manicured fairways and stunningly contoured greens. It is a tree lined course surrounded by some spectacular homes in the Semiahmoo community. The course was designed by Arnold Palmer

Loomis Trail Golf Club was rated Washinton’s #1 public course by Golf Digest in 2005 for its consistently smooth, fast greens, with water coming into play on every hole. It is the only course in Washington state to make the nation’s Top 100. It is also surrounded by some spectacular homes.

New World Golf Par 3 Golf Course and Driving Range. Golf does not need to be expensive or time consuming. You can complete 9 holes in 40 minutes. This is a great way to practice your short game or learn to play golf. They have a covered driving range to keep you out of the weather so you can practice all year round.

Raspberry Ridge Golf Course. This 9-hole, par 34 course was built on the area’s natural topography, giving it superior drainage and the ability to stay open in the rainy winter months. There are open fairways, well-bunkered greens, and some fun challenges as well as spectacular views of Mount Baker. Good for all skill levels in all seasons.

Sandy Point Golf Course. This is a private, residential golf facility that does not have a pro shop.

Wayne Olsen Riverside Golf Course. This nine-hole course has fairways that are undulating and the greens are medium in size and speed. Water hazards come into play on five holes.

Homestead Farms Golf Course winds its way through an area that was once fertile dairy farm land. It has been transformed to one of the real surprises of Northwest Washington golf. This is a true resort course, with wide landing areas and multiple tees for the recreational golfer – plus the length, doglegs and hidden hazards to challenge players with some game.

Grandview Golf Course is a 6,100-yard course that features water hazards on nearly every hole. It offers easy walking with a challenging layout for both beginning and experienced golfers.

Birch Bay Village Golf Course. This well-maintained course has some greenside sand bunkers and lakes coming into play on several holes. The terrain is hilly, and there is a standard cut of rough bordering the fairways. Additionally, the fairways are lined with pine trees, so shot accuracy is at a premium.

Birch Bay Golf Club. This course has small greens and water hazards coming into play on nine holes.

Sea Links Golf Course is a public course, located on beautiful Birch Bay with 400 feet of waterfront and scenic views of the Gulf Islands and the beautiful Mt Baker and the Cascade Mountains.

Evergreen Golf Course in Everson.This executive 9 hole course, built on flat terrain, is easy to walk. The greens are small, and the fairways are narrow. There are no sand bunkers, but there are water hazards coming into play on several holes.

Dakota Creek Golf Course was once a working farm, there is still an old farmhouse and barn on the site. It is laid out in the gently rolling hills of north Whatcom County and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley and San Juan Islands. It is a unique with each hole representing its own challenge with lots of natural ponds and wetlands.

Peaceful Valley Country Club in Kendall
This peaceful course is owned by the home owners of the city. The fairways are wide, and the greens are medium in speed and size.

A course often left out of Whatcom County lists is The Point Roberts Golf & Country Club. It is a bit of a challenge getting there requiring 2 border crossing each way due to it’s unique location, so remember to bring your passport. It has been it ranked 6th in the entire United States for unique golf courses, and has recently been added to the Golf Digest Best Places To Play list for 2008/2009.

You can reach me any time at 369-739-6981 or email me at: michael.eisenberg@exprealty.com

Whatcom County Real Estate Market Report for November, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 22:23:00 +0000

The following is a quick analysis of the Whatcom County real estate market.

There are currently 1325 homes for sale
Homes are priced from $15,000 - $4,500,000
Average Asking Price $409,206 Days on Market: 144 days
Median Asking Price $325,000 Days on Market: 107 days
Homes sold in November: 189
Average Listing Price $317,989
Average Sold Price $318,141 Days on Market 106
Median Listing Price $259,000
Median Sold Price $252,490 Days on Market: 78
Homes Pending this week: 45 Total Homes Pending: 431

Average Sales Price November 2008: $289,803
Median Sales Price November 2008: $267,000
Sold in November 2008: 100

The Average Sales price is up 9.8% compared to November 08 and up 9.8% compared to last month.

The Median Sales prices is down 5.4% compared to November 08 and down 2.1% compared to last month.

The number of sales is up by 89 compared to November 08 and down by 16 compared to last month.

Condo Analysis for Whatcom County

Currently Active Listings: 380
Price range of active listings - $22,000 - $1,565,000
Average List Price $231,534 Days on Market: 170
Median List Price $189,900 Days on Market: 125
Sold in November: 25
Average Listing Price $194,618
Average Sold Price $184,092 Days on Market: 143
Median Listing Price $189,500
Median Sold Price $175,000 Days on Market: 65
Condos Pending (went under contract) last week: 5 Total Condos Pending: 79

Average Sales Price November 2008: $214,434
Median Sales Price November 2008: $199,000
Sold in November 2008: 11

The Average Sales price is down 14.1% compared to November 08, and down by 10.0% compared to last month.

The Median Sales prices is down by 13.7% compared to November 08 and down by 7.9% compared to last month.

The number of sales is up by 14 compared to November 08 and down by 22 compared to last month.

Sudden Valley Estate Market Report for November, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 01:03:00 +0000

The following is a quick analysis of the Sudden Valley real estate market.

There are currently 87 homes for sale. Homes are priced from $139,900 - $869,900

Average Asking Price is $299,075 Average Days on Market are 107 days
Median Asking Price is $264,000 Median Days on Market are 77 days
Sold in November: 15
Average Listing Price $232,730
Average Sold Price $230,380 Average Days on Market 98
Median Listing Price $224,900
Median Sold Price $220,000 Median Days on Market 63
Pending Sales Last Week: 3 Total pending sales: 30

Average Sales Price November 2008: $243,310
Median Sales Price November 2008: $238,750
Sold in November 2008: 12

The Average Sales price is down 5.3% compared to November 08 and down 15.6% compared to October 09.

The Median Sales prices is down 8.5% compared to November 08 and down 3.3% compared to October 09.

The number of sales up by 3 compared to November 08 and is down by 1units compared to October 09.

Condo Analysis for Sudden Valley

There are currently 9 condos for sale. Condos are priced from $69,900 - $350,000

Average List Price $301,467 Average Days on the Market: 135
Median List Price $199,000 Median Days on the Market: 81
Sold in November: 2
Average Listing Price $159,900
Average Sold Price $149,500 Average Days on Market 99
Median Listing Price $159,900
Median Sold Price $149,500 Median Days on Market 98
Pending Sales Last Week: 0 Total pending sales: 14

Average Sales Price November 2008: $155,000

Median Sales Price November 2008: $155,000

Sold in November 2008: 1

Lynden Real Estate Market Report for November, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 23:51:00 +0000

The following is a quick analysis of the Lynden real estate market.

There are currently 146 homes for sale.

Homes are priced from $112,900 - $987,000
Average Asking Price; $369,474 Days on Market are 153 days
Median Asking Price: $339,929 Days on Market are 120 days
Homes sold in November: 16
Average Listing Price $353,688
Average Sold Price $339,406 Days on the Market 120
Median Listing Price $347,000
Median Sold Price $343,750 Days on Market 100
Homes Pending last week: 6 Total Homes Pending: 29

Average Sales Price November 2008: $303,329
Median Sales Price November 2008: $272,000
Sold in November 2008: 12

The Average Sales price is up 12.6% compared to November 08 and up 8.7% compared to October 09.

The Median Sales prices is up 26.3% compared to November 08 and up 14.5% compared to October 09.

The number of sales is up by 4 compared to November 08 and is up by 2 compared to last month October 09.

Condo Analysis for Lynden

There are currently 29 condos for sale.
Condos are priced from $139,900 - $379,500
Average List Price $226,328 Days on the Market: 198
Median List Price $219,9056 Days on the Market: 155
Condos Sold in November: 1
Average List Price: $124,800
Average Sales Price: $120,000 Days on the Market: 7
Median List Price: $124,800
Median Sales Price: $120,000 Days on the Market: 7
Pending Sales Last Week: 0 Total Condos Pending 3

Average Sales Price November 2008: $285,635
Median Sales Price November 2008: $285,635
Sold in November 2008: 1

You might want to talk to your banker to see what you can afford. Meanwhile interest rates are still extremely low and there are some great values in the Bellingham market right now. You might want to take a look at what it would cost you to purchase one of these homes at today's rates. You might be surprised at what your monthly payments would be, maybe less than your paying for rent right now if you are renting a comparable sized house.

If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981

Bellingham Real Estate Market Report for November, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 01:31:00 +0000

The following is a quick analysis of the Residential Bellingham real estate market.

Currently Active Listings: 432
Price range of active listings - $107,600 - $3,450,000
Average List Price $492,090 Days on the Market: 123
Median List Price: $375,000 Days on the Market: 85
Sold in November: 87
Average List Price: $362,903
Average Sales Price: $374,068 Days on the Market: 91
Ratio of List to Price: 103%
Median List Price: $288,000
Median Sales Price: $280,000 Days on the Market: 62
Ratio of List to Price: 97.2%
Pending Sales Last Week: 10 Total pending sales: 126

Average Sales Price November 2008: $320,973
Median Sales Price November 2008: $288,950
Number Sold in November 2008: 36

The Average Sales price is up 16.5% compared to November 08 and up 13.6% compared to the previous month October 09.

The Median Sales prices is down by 3.1% compared November 08 and up 2.3% compared to the previous October 09.

The number of sales is up by 21 compared to November 2008 and down by 9 compared to the previous month October 09.

Condo Analysis for Bellingham

Currently Active Listings: 241
Price range of active listings - $113,900 - $1,565,000
Average List Price $236,909 Days on the Market: 157
Median List Price $184,900 Days on the Market: 118
Sold in November: 15
Average List Price: $207,106
Average Sales Price: $199,771 Days on the Market: 123
Ratio of List to Price: 96.5%
Median List Price: $185,000
Median Sales Price: $175,000 Days on the Market: 44
Ratio of List to Price: 94.6%
Pending Sales Last Week: 3Total pending sales: 25

Average Sales Price November, 2008: $181,125
Median Sales Price November, 2008: $179,750
Sold in November, 2008: 4

Average Condo sale price is up 10.3% from November 2008 and down 0.9% from the previous month - October 2009

Median Sales Price is down 2.6% from November 2008 and down 2.3% from the previous month - October 2009.

The number of sales is up by 11 compared to November 2008 and down by 20 compared to the previous month October 09.

If you look at the graph you can see that prices the residential market has taken a bit of a rise again. Where will the graph go next month is anybody's guess. Will the roller coaster ride of prices continue?........Tune in next month

Great news the First Time Home Buyer's Tax Credit of $8,000 available to anyone who hasn't owned a home in the past 3 years has been extended until April 2010. The new program will also expand the tax credit to include existing home owners who have owned a home for at least five of the last 8 years will be able to apply for tax credits of up to $6,500 when they purchase their next home.You might want to talk to your banker to see what you can afford.Meanwhile interest rates are still extremely low and there are some great values in the Bellingham market right now. You might want to take a look at what it would cost you to purchase one of these homes at today's rates. You might be surprised at what your monthly payments would be, maybe less than your paying for rent right now if you are renting a comparable sized house.

If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981

Absorption Rates for Bellingham – 12-2-09

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 22:26:00 +0000

The Pending Ratio is the number of homes currently under contract compared to the number of homes available for sale .

This is a very interesting way to look at the market, as of today:

Average List Price $503,222 Days on the market 123

Median List Price $375,000 Days on the market 85

Price Range	Active Listings	Monthly Absorption Rate	Pending Past week/Total	Months to sell Current Inventory	Pending Ratio

Up to $199,999	29	8.6	4/33	3.3	113%
200,000-299,999	128	31.8	3/57	4.0	44%
300,000-399,999	95	17.2	0/17	5.5	18%
400,000-499,999	55	7.1	2/12	7.7	22%
500,000-599,999	35	4.3	0/3	8.8	9%
600,000-699,999	30	1.9	0/2	15.8	7%
700,000-799,999	23	.9	0/3	25.6	13%
800,000-899,999	10	.8	0/1	12.5	10%
900,000-999,999	5	.4	0/0	12.5	0%
1,000,000-1,999,999	25	.9	1/2	27.7	8%
2,000,000+	5	.2	0/0	15	0%
Totals	431	73.9	9/130	5.8	30%

It looks like a buyers market under $400.000 as conventional wisdom goes anything less than 6 months inventory is a buyers market.

Should Bellingham Landlords be Licensed?

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 05:34:00 +0000

In an attempt to control “nuisance” houses, usually those where students live and have loud parties and bother neighbors, the Bellingham City Council is considering a licensing law for landlords.

If you own a rental in Bellingham you might want to attend the meeting on Monday, December 7, 2009 at 7 PM in the Bellingham City Council chambers. You can also submit written comments prior to the meeting.

This law is not just limited to landlords with a certain number of rental units but to anyone with a rental property in Bellingham. So if this law were to take effect, and you own one home and rent it out you’ll need to be licensed. There will be inspection requirements not only to check for health and safety issues to ensure compliance with the rule that states that not more than three unrelated persons may live in the same house.

There are many people who believe this law is unnecessary and stricter enforcement of present laws is all that is required.

Other cities that have implemented similar licensing laws have an initial licensing fee which may be as much as $1500 with an annual inspection of rental units of $150 per unit. Penalties for failure to get a license could be as much as $1000-$5000 and up to 90 days in jail. And as far as nuisance calls go if the city receives three of them the landlords license may be revoked and the property may not be used as a rental.
‘
Do you think these fees will come out of the landlords pockets, I don’t think so, I think they will be passed along to tenants increasing rents in the area.

So maybe you should attend the meeting even if your tenant.

Whatcom County Real Estate Market Report for October, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:45:00 +0000

The following is a quick analysis of the Whatcom County real estate market.

There are currently 1387 homes for sale
Homes are priced from $12,000 – $4,500,000
Average Asking Price $409,010 Days on Market: 139 days
Median Asking Price $320,000 Days on Market: 102 days
Homes sold in October: 183
Average Listing Price $299,098
Average Sold Price $289,807 Days on Market 94
Median Listing Price $262,900
Median Sold Price $258,000 Days on Market: 52
Homes Pending this week: 91 Total Homes Pending: 431

Average Sales Price October 2008: $301,847
Median Sales Price October 2008: $275,395
Sold in October 2008: 146

The Average Sales price is down 4.0% compared to October 08 and up 9.2% compared to last month.

The Median Sales prices is down 6.2% compared to October 08 and up 6.2% compared to last month.

The number of sales is up by 37 compared to October 08 and down by 16 compared to last month.

Condo Analysis for Whatcom County

Currently Active Listings: 429
Price range of active listings – $22,000 – $1,565,000
Average List Price $248,926 Days on Market: 170
Median List Price $194,566 Days on Market: 119
Sold in October: 47
Average Listing Price $210,852
Average Sold Price $204,557 Days on Market: 147
Median Listing Price $193,000
Median Sold Price $190,000 Days on Market: 97
Condos Pending (went under contract) last week: 12 Total Condos Pending: 79

Average Sales Price October 2008: $247,208
Median Sales Price October 2008: $177,000
Sold in October 2008: 22

The Average Sales price is down 17.3% compared to October 08, and down by 1.0% compared to last month.

The Median Sales prices is up by 7.3% compared to October 08 and up by 8.5% compared to last month.

The number of sales is up by 25 compared to October 08 and up by 14 compared to last month.

Great news the First Time Home Buyer’s Tax Credit of $8,000 available to anyone who hasn’t owned a home in the past 3 years has been extended until April 2010. The new program will also expand the tax credit to include existing home owners who have owned a home for at least five of the last 8 years will be able to apply for tax credits of up to $6,500 when they purchase their next home.

You might want to talk to your banker to see what you can afford. Meanwhile interest rates are still extremely low and there are some great values in the Bellingham market right now. You might want to take a look at what it would cost you to purchase one of these homes at today’s rates. You might be surprised at what your monthly payments would be, maybe less than your paying for rent right now if you are renting a comparable sized house.

If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981

Bellingham Real Estate Market Report for October, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 01:58:00 +0000

The following is a quick analysis of the Residential Bellingham real estate market.

Currently Active Listings: 468
Price range of active listings - $124,900 - $4,500,000
Average List Price $506,950 Days on the Market: 118
Median List Price: $379,450 Days on the Market: 85
Sold in October: 76
Average List Price: $339,339
Average Sales Price: $329,072 Days on the Market: 98
Ratio of List to Price: 97.0%
Median List Price: $273,450
Median Sales Price: $273,750 Days on the Market: 50
Ratio of List to Price: 100%
Pending Sales Last Week: 19 Total pending sales: 169

Average Sales Price October 2008: $305,045
Median Sales Price October 2008: $292,000
Number Sold in October 2008: 66

The Average Sales price is up 7.9% compared to October 08 and up 8.2% compared to the previous month September 09.

The Median Sales prices is down by 6.3% compared October 08 and up 5.3% compared to the previous September 09.

The number of sales is up by 10 compared to October 2008 and down by 6 compared to the previous month September 09.

Condo Analysis for Bellingham

Currently Active Listings: 262
Price range of active listings - $103,738 - $1,565,000
Average List Price $228,986 Days on the Market: 143
Median List Price $184,900 Days on the Market: 102
Sold in October: 35
Average List Price: $207,320
Average Sales Price: $201,597 Days on the Market: 148
Ratio of List to Price: 97.2%
Median List Price: $185,000
Median Sales Price: $179,300 Days on the Market: 93
Ratio of List to Price: 96.9%
Pending Sales Last Week: 3Total pending sales: 27

Average Sales Price October, 2008: $237,257
Median Sales Price October, 2008: $179,000
Sold in October, 2008: 17

Average Condo sale price is down 15.0% from October 2008 and down 5.9% from the previous month - September 2009

Median Sales Price is $300 or .2 %up from October 2008 and down 6.8% from the previous month - September 2009.

The number of sales is up by 18 compared to October 2008 and up by 9 compared to the previous month September 09.

If you look at the graph you can see that prices the residential market has taken a bit of a rise. Where will the graph go next month is anybody's guess. Will the roller coaster ride of prices continue?........Tune in next month

If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981

The New Improved Home Buyer Tax Credit is Here

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 21:18:00 +0000

The home buyer tax credit ,which is part of a larger bill that also extends unemployment benefits. has been approved by both houses of Congress and signed by President Obama.

First-time home buyers are still eligible for tax credits of up to $8,000. Buyers will now have to sign a purchase agreement by April 30, 2010 and close by June 30.

The new program will also expand the tax credit to include existing home owners who have owned a home for at least five of the last 8 years will be able to apply for tax credits of up to $6,500 when they purchase their next home.

The maximum price on a home will be $800,000 and vacation homes are not eligible.

The National Association of Realtors says that so far, about 1.4 million first-time homebuyers have qualified for the program and they estimated that 350,000 of these buyers would not have otherwise purchased.

The tax credit will also be extended for another year for military personnel serving outside of the United States until June 30, 2011.

Senator Johnny Isakson, who heavily pushed for the extension, along with his own version that would have increased the credit to $15,000 stated, "this bill will help us boost what is the real problem in the U.S housing market today and that is what is called the move-up market."

Today we got something to help the move up buyers that should help jump start that segemet of the market as well as the first time buyer market.

What are my closing costs?

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 18:10:00 +0000

Another common question from buyers as well as sellers is, "what are my closing costs?" Some typical closing costs in real estate transaction are

Title search fee -- is the assurance of clear title to the property and title insurance to defend against any future claims made on the title by circumstances that were not picked up at the time of the title search. This fee is based on the price of the transaction. It will vary from one company to another but they usually pretty close to each other. Traditionally the seller will buy the title insurance policy to protect the buyer, and the buyer will buy a title insurance policy to protect the lender that is providing the loan for the transaction.

The appraisal fee -- this fee is paid by the buyer to have a professional appraiser give their value of the property. The appraisal is based on recent comparable sales.

Prorated property taxes, utilities, and association fee -- these fees are based on the percentage of the year, or month in terms of utilities such as water and sewer, that you own a home.

Insurance fee -- you can usually expect to prepay the first year of your insurance premium

Recording fees -- these are fees charged to record the change in ownership usually by the county.

Document fee -- these can be fees for drawing up different documents involved in the transaction.

Escrow feea -- this fee is usually shared by both buyer and seller and pays for the escrow company that is handling the transaction.

Credit report fee -- this fee is for the lender to render buyers credit report.

Other miscellaneous fee -- these can include courier fees, electronic transfer fees, flood determination fees, digital storage fees, retrieval fees, underwriting fees, wire transfer fees, tax service fees, e-mail document fees. You won't necessarily be paying all of these, but you will pay some of them.is

Loan origination fees and discount points -- the loan origination fee can vary from 0.5 % to about 2% of the loan amount pays for the cost of providing loans. Discount points are percentage of the loan amount paid to buying down the loan rate, resulting in a lower monthly payment.

Sellers additional fees -- the seller will also pay a percentage of the sales price in excise tax to the county, and commissions to real estate agents.

You real estate agent can usually give you a pretty close estimate of what most of these fees will be.

Here is video using simple drawings is that talks about closing costs,I didn’t make it but it has some good points, even if it is a bit cheesy.

Blaine Real Estate Market Report for September, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 02:40:00 +0000

The following is a quick analysis of the Blaine real estate market.

There are currently 255 homes for sale.
Homes are priced from $89,900- $2,950,000
Average Asking Price $459,644 Days on Market: 149 days
Median Asking Price $349,000 Days on Market: 117 days
Homes sold in September: 34
Average Listing Price $254,942
Average Sold Price $245,642 Days on Market 149
Median Listing Price $228,490
Median Sold Price $225,00 Days on Market: 66
Homes Pending this week: 8 Total Homes Pending: 60

Average Sales Price September 2008: $272,587
Median Sales Price September 2008: $223,000
Sold in September 2008: 22

The Average Sales price is down 9.8% compared to September 08 and up 11.0% compared to last month August 09.

The Median Sales prices is down 0.8% compared to September 08 and up 2.3% compared to last month August 09.

The number of sales is up by 12 to September 08 and is up by 9 compared to last month August 09.

Condo Analysis for Blaine/Birch Bay

Currently Active Listings: 94
Price range of active listings - $24,900 - $1,249,000
Average List Price $340,511 Days on Market: 213
Median List Price $232,250 Days on Market: 166
Sold in September: 3
Average Listing Price $278,267
Average Sold Price $259,667 Days on Market: 115
Median Listing Price $199,950
Median Sold Price $189,000 Days on Market: 119
Condos Pending this week: 2 Total Condos Pending: 18

Average Sales Price September 2008: $249,900
Median Sales Price September 2008: $249,900
Sold in September 2008: 1

Interest rates are still extremely low and there are some great values in the Bellingham market right now. You might want to take a look at what it would cost you to purchase one of these homes at today’s rates. You might be surprised at what your monthly payments would be, maybe less than your paying for rent right now if you are renting a comparable sized house.

There is only a short window of opportunity left for the First Time Home Buyer’s Tax Credit of $8,000 available to anyone who hasn’t owned a home in the past 3 years. You might want to talk to your banker to see what you can afford.

If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981

Can I get my earnest money back?

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 17:34:00 +0000

This is a question this often on the minds of buyers. Buyer's want to be sure they are to not going to lose their earnest money.

What is earnest money anyway? It's like a deposit to show the seller that you really interested (earnestly) in buying their property. It's usually in the form of check made out to the escrow company and held in trust accounts until the transaction closes. It can be in the form of promissory note or anything else the seller is willing to accept. The full amount of the earnest money is credited toward the purchase price of the property at closing. There is no standard amount of earnest money, it's commonly about 1 percent of the purchase price. If the buyer really wants to impress the seller they will make it a lot higher to show them that they are really earnest about purchasing their property. Or make it nonrefundable after certain conditions are met.

As far as getting the earnest money back goes, as long as the buyer is careful about meeting contract deadlines the earnest money is usually safe or refundable. As a buyer you must be aware that you need to apply for financing (if there's a financing contingency) within five days of mutual acceptance (that's the date all timelines run from.) You to have your home inspection and response to the seller within ten days. Usually the the first ten days is the easiest time to get your earnest money back because of that inspection contingency. The contingency is subjective and you don't like something in the inspection report or even the color of the front door, you can check the box on the inspection response that says "Buyer' s inspection of Property is disapproved and the Agreement is terminated. The Earnest Money shall be refunded to the buyer." As you can see you don't even have to give a reason.
After this ten days of buyers earnest money is usually in jeopardy of being forfeited to the seller.
There are other circumstances where a buyer can get their earnest money back. If there is a financing contingency and within 30 days the lender turns the buyer down for a loan they can get their earnest money back. If the appraisal doesn't meet the purchase price and the seller is not willing to reduce the price or the buyer and seller can't come to some new agreement based on appraisal the buyer can get the earnest money back.
If the contract runs until closing and the buyer decides to walk away at the last-minute and go to Costa Rica instead of purchasing the property, the seller is surely going to keep the earnest money.

If you have any other questions about earnest money or anything else to do with Bellingham real estate feel free to give me call at 360-739-6981

Bellingham Real Estate Market Report for September, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:52:00 +0000

The following is a quick analysis of the Residential Bellingham real estate market.

Currently Active Listings: 505
Price range of active listings - $124,900 - $4,500,000
Average List Price $507,076 Days on the Market: 118
Median List Price: $374,950 Days on the Market: 82
Sold in September: 82
Average List Price: $314,932
Average Sales Price: $304,221 Days on the Market: 75
Ratio of List to Price: 96.9%
Median List Price: $275,000
Median Sales Price: $260,000 Days on the Market: 48
Ratio of List to Price: 95.6%
Pending Sales Last Week: 35 Total pending sales: 177

Average Sales Price August 2008: $391,516
Median Sales Price August 2008: $326,650
Number Sold in August 2008: 73

The Average Sales price is down 22.3% compared to September 08 and down 22.6% compared to the previous month August 09.

The Median Sales prices is down by 20.4% compared September 08 and down 25.0% compared to the previous August 09.

The number of sales is up by 11 compared to September 08 and down by 3 compared to the previous month August 09.

Condo Analysis for Bellingham

Currently Active Listings: 270
Price range of active listings - $109,300 - $1,565,000
Average List Price $226,326 Days on the Market: 127
Median List Price $183,900 Days on the Market: 78
Sold in September: 24
Average List Price: $221,400
Average Sales Price: $$214,253 Days on the Market: 129
Ratio of List to Price: 97.3%
Median List Price: $197,450
Median Sales Price: $192,375 Days on the Market: 67
Ratio of List to Price: 98.9%
Pending Sales Last Week: 7 Total pending sales: 50

Average Sales Price September, 2008: $229,858
Median Sales Price September, 2008: $180,000
Sold in September, 2008: 35

Average Condo sale price is down 6.8% from September 2008 and down 4.2% from the previous month - August 2009

Median Sales Price is down 6.9% from September 2008 and down 8.6% from the previous month - August 2009.

The number of sales is down by 9 compared to September 08 and up by 8 compared to the previous month August 09.

If you look at the graph you can see that prices took a bit of a dive in the residential market with a slighter decrease in the condo market. Where will the graph go next month is anybody's guess. Will the roller coaster ride of prices continue?........Tune in next month

Meanwhile interest rates are still extremely low and there are some great values in the Bellingham market right now. You might want to take a look at what it would cost you to purchase one of these homes at today's rates. You might be surprised at what your monthly payments would be, maybe less than your paying for rent right now if you are renting a comparable sized house.

There is only a short window of opportunity left for the First Time Home Buyer's Tax Credit of $8,000 available to anyone who hasn't owned a home in the past 3 years. You might want to talk to your banker to see what you can afford.

If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981

Whatcom County Real Estate Market Report for September, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michael Eisenberg) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 02:26:00 +0000

The following is a quick analysis of the Whatcom County real estate market.

There are currently 1511 homes for sale
Homes are priced from $17,000 - $4,500,000
Average Asking Price $417,914 Days on Market: 131 days
Median Asking Price $329,000 Days on Market: 91 days
Homes sold in September: 199
Average Listing Price $276,474
Average Sold Price $265,368 Days on Market 97
Median Listing Price $249,900
Median Sold Price $243,000 Days on Market: 64
Homes Pending this week: 91 Total Homes Pending: 431

Average Sales Price September 2008: $306,907
Median Sales Price September 2008: $269,900
Sold in September 2008: 175

The Average Sales price is down 13.5% compared to September 08 and down 16.7% compared to last month.

The Median Sales prices is down 10.0% compared to September 08 and down 13.2% compared to last month.

The number of sales is up by 24 compared to September 08 and up by 26 compared to last month.

Condo Analysis for Whatcom County

Currently Active Listings: 446
Price range of active listings - $24,900 - $1,565,000
Average List Price $248,196 Days on Market: 157
Median List Price $198,000 Days on Market: 101
Sold in September: 33
Average Listing Price $214,218
Average Sold Price $206,401 Days on Market: 116
Median Listing Price $179,900
Median Sold Price $174,900 Days on Market: 65
Condos Pending (went under contract) last week: 12 Total Condos Pending: 79

Average Sales Price September 2008: $219,476
Median Sales Price September 2008: $200,000
Sold in September 2008: 41

The Average Sales price is down 5.6% compared to September 08, and up by 1.8% compared to last month.

The Median Sales prices is down by 12.6% compared to September 08 and down by 14.7% compared to last month.

The number of sales is down by 8 compared to September 08 and up by 5 compared to last month.

Meanwhile interest rates are still extremely low and there are some great values in the Whatcom County Real Estate market right now. You might want to take a look at what it would cost you to purchase one of these homes at today’s rates. You might be surprised at what your monthly payments would be, maybe less than your paying for rent right now if you are renting a comparable sized house.

If you have any questions or want to see any Bellingham Property feel free to email me at or give me a call at 360-739-6981