Talking about title insurance isn't the sexiest real estate topics out there. Title insurance doesn't have all the bells and whistles of fancy advertising nor does it have the attraction of a HGTV show. However, Title insurance is the behind-the-scene work horse that keeps property owners safe from liens, clouds, and false information that effect a property's possession and title transfer.

What does title insurance do? One word, protection.

During a title search many items can arise and a common item deals with names. Property owners or buyers are asked to complete a Statement of Identity to ensure claims are associated with the correct person(s) or not associated with a person. Another example is a construction lien. Say a person has a bathroom remodeled yet fails to pay for the completed work. The contractor may file a lien against the property to ensure financial remedy for the bathroom remodel.

Buying a home is one of the most rewarding accomplishments. It builds confidence, rewards hard work, and creates a path for future wealth building. However, the trend of assuming zero down means free, or at no-cost, seems to be prolific. Also, the lack of responsibility for having zero savings and expecting everyone else involved 'to make it work' is both disrespectful and unrealistic.

Navigating the Snohomish County website is daunting task in itself with endless page links and sometimes frustrating website architecture. I find myself getting sucked into pages and soon land on an intriguing yet unrelated page. The upfront design is getting better but farther into the site traveled the more it appears like web 1.0. However, the vast amount of information on Snohomish County's website makes it a valuable resource.

The other day, while researching potential changes to building rules, I came across a page containing multiple interactive Snohomish County maps. It was nerd heaven especially for someone in my field. I regularly use 2 but the other 3 were some welcomed news.

In May's Neighborhood Spotlight we travel north to the town of Arlington and the Eagle Heights neighborhood. Arlington's 98223 is a vast zip code; however, being located on the northside of 172nd and near SR9 - 85th Ave NE is the main neighborhood entrance - Eagle Heights is one of Arlington's most southern neighborhood west of SR 9.

Snohomish County's housing statistics for April 2014 are published. If you're currently purchasing, or thinking about purchasing, selling a home, or doing both at the same time then you have first hand experienced. Lately, media outlets talk of cash is king and purchase offers are well over listing price. From a ground level, from someone who actively assists buyer and seller, I can say that statement is holding true in Snohomish County.

As recently as last weekend I wrote an offer on a modest High Clover Park home, which has since gone Pending Inspection, for asking price minus 3% seller contribution towards buyer's closing costs, and there were 5 other offers, all over list, and the selected offer being a cash deal.

National Open House Weekend kicks-off this Saturday & Sunday. What is National Open House Weekend? It's a national event orchestrated by the National Association of REALTORS® to host open houses on a national scale. Effectively, its when real estate brokers welcome people into homes that we have listed for sale. Should be fun.

But what if you're out looking and would like to know a home's value compared to asking price? How would you do that? Now you can can.

Get estimated property values in 1 minute or less from a local Snohomish County real estate company with our newly released online property valuation tool.

The date March 22, 2014 will live in the minds and hearts of Snohomish County residents for years to come. The Oso community's losses are more than tragic; they were our friends, our family, and our neighbors. For those who don't know, Oso's attraction is almost obvious - a small foothills community wealthy in tradition and the peaceful seclusion offered by the surrounding mountainous views.

Oso has seen donations of monumental proportions and that support continues to pour in yet Snohomish County is now faced with a new challenge - building.

If you’re using financing to purchase a Snohomish County home then more than likely you’ll be using NWMLS’s form 22A Financing Addendum. As part of a Purchase & Sale Agreement, 22A details 8 highly pertinent financing items for both the buyer and seller.

1. Loan Application
2. Seller’s Right to Terminate
3. Loan Cost Provisions
4. Earnest Money
5. Inspection
6. Appraisal Less Than Sale Price
7. FHA/VA/RD – Appraisal Certificate
8. Extension of Closing to Accommodate Requirements of Regulation Z of the Truth in Lending Act

An escrow is an arrangement in which a neutral third party (the escrow agent) assembles and processes all of the components of a real estate transaction (including legal documents), records the transaction, and ultimately, disburses and distributes funds according to the buyer's and seller's instructions. Your transaction is typically closed by an Escrow Officer or LPO (Limited Practice Officer) in Washington State.

More commonly known as east Marysville, and encompassing Bayview Ridge, Munson Creek, and the Northpointe developments, On the Hill is an established neighborhood with traditional Northwest architecture and mature landscaping. Being located on Marysville eastern border, and on a western facing slope, many homes are blessed by beautiful sunsets paired with timeless silhouettes of Olympic Mountains, the Puget Sound, and Whidbey Island. More neighborhood hallmarks consist of tree lined and wide flowing streets, the 18 hole Cedarcrest Golf Course, and quick access to SR 9 (aka Highway 9) and downtown.