Gig Harbor and Kitsap County

May 2009 Resale Data is Available

Our May 2009 Gig Harbor Market Stats Report is ready for viewing.

  

We go directly to the county database when we gather our statistics. This way, we can account for every transfer of ownership rather than just those listed via the local multiple listing service. Our Talon Market Stats report uses the following criteria for reflecting monthly sales:

• Current use code of single family homes. (look for a condo sales report in the near future!)
• The sales price is greater than 35% of the assessed value. (eliminates quit claims with no monetary consideration and other like tranfers)
• Sale dates are recorded and reported by the county within the reports timeframe.

For more detailed information, please contact our friendly Property Information department. 

December 2008 Stats for Gig Harbor and Kitsap County

Our December 2008 Gig Harbor Market Stats Report is ready for viewing.

  

We go directly to the county database when we gather our statistics. This way, we can account for every transfer of ownership rather than just those listed via the local multiple listing service. Our Talon Market Stats report uses the following criteria for reflecting monthly sales:

• Current use code of single family homes. (look for a condo sales report in the near future!)
• The sales price is greater than 35% of the assessed value. (eliminates quit claims with no monetary consideration and other like tranfers)
• Sale dates are recorded and reported by the county within the reports timeframe.

For more detailed information, please contact our friendly Property Information department. 

Pierce County Recorder's Office Closure Dates for 2009

In our market a transaction is "closed" once the new deed has been recorded.  So wouldn't it be helpful to know which days your county recorder's office is closed?  Keeping those dates in mind as you schedule your real estate transactions should make everything run smoother for you and more importantly, for the consumer.  Regardless of whether the transaction is closing in King County, Pierce or Snohomish County, The Talon Group would like to be your preferred service provider for both title and escrow.

Click on the appropriate underlined county up above for a schedule of their 2009 closure dates.

A New Storm to Ring in the New Year?

The storms seem to have pummeled us here in the South end for weeks now and according to the experts, the storms aren't over yet?   As we all know, mail has been delayed, and has not only affected our receipt and delivery of Christmas gifts, but has also hampered businesses from operating in a usual, productive manner.  We at the Talon Group rely heavily on courier/overnight services for timely delivery and receipt of documents pertinent to closing transactions.  The challenges posed due to our recent snow and freezing precipitation have not gone unnoticed with our teams.  Great effort has been directed at overcoming the obstacles and presenting "business as usual".  We appreciate the patience of our customers and the dedication of our employees.  Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays!

What an unusual holiday season we've had!  Please make sure  you keep an eye on the weather and have plenty of supplies at home. 

If you find yourself experiencing some cabin fever this winter check out Things to Do When You Get Snowed In.  I was snowed in last weekend and unfortunately all I could think of was baking!

ps Click on the picture to download a .pdf of this eCard.

HUD Launches New Website to Help Consumers!

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development has recently announced a comprehensive website aimed at assisting homeowners with "improving financial literacy, sustaining healthy homeownership, and achieving financial security".  The website will have tools available that will help homeowners make more responsible decisions about homebuying and finances.

The site includes a self assessment tool, which will help users find information on many aspects of homebuying and homeownership.  The user will have to answer a few general questions, and information will be tailored to the users specific needs. 

Local Company Provides Opportunities for Supplemental Income

 

In a slumping economy many of us are looking for that avenue for additional income. It seems that this would be tough to do as many industries are cutting back during these slow times. There is good news though reports Susan Schell of the Peninsula Gateway. A local company here in Gig Harbor, LaborWorks, claims business is strong at their 15 locations which help place workers in jobs for temporary employment opportunities in Washington. LaborWorks offers quick and flexible options for supplemental employment for many who still hold full time jobs or even students with busy school schedules. They place workers in industries anywhere from scientists at Microsoft to clean-up staff for sporting and main events at Qwest Field and other venues. This is a great way to pick up some extra cash while maintaining your current schedule. This is also a great way to get your foot in the door somewhere that may require more experience than you have. Another bonus? LaborWorks will handle all the paperwork for employment, just last year they sent out over 11,000 W2's. In a time when bills are stacking up and cost of living is rising it is refreshing to hear opportunities do exist to supplement your income!

Is your family prepared in the event of a disaster?

Although many of us understand the importance of being prepared for the worst, most of us don't have a plan in place. We are so used to the convenience of cell phones and email, but what if these everyday communication tools were abruptly wiped out without warning? Would your family know where to meet you? Would you have enough food and water to provide to your pets and loved ones for a period of time? In the event of a disaster, such as an earthquake, fire, or terrorist attack, you will feel much calmer and confident knowing you have outlined and prepared a plan for your family.

The Pep-C organization of Gig Harbor provides many tips, plans, forms, and additional information regarding hazards and disasters that could strike our area at anytime. Visit their website to find step-by-step planning for your family along with preventative checklists to help make your home safer.

Home Hazard Checklist

Emergency Contacts Form

Emergency Medical List

CPR Instructions  

Of course we always hope planning for a disaster is all we have to do, but what if one occurred? Nobody would regret having a plan, create one for your family today!

October 2008 Statistics for Gig Harbor

Our October 2008 Gig Harbor Market Stats Report is ready for viewing.

  

We go directly to the county database when we gather our statistics. This way, we can account for every transfer of ownership rather than just those listed via the local multiple listing service. Our Talon Market Stats report uses the following criteria for reflecting monthly sales:

• Current use code of single family homes. (look for a condo sales report in the near future!)
• The sales price is greater than 35% of the assessed value. (eliminates quit claims with no monetary consideration and other like tranfers)
• Sale dates are recorded and reported by the county within the reports timeframe.

For more detailed information, please contact our friendly Property Information department. 

Contribute to a Safer, Healthier Community... GO GREEN!

Going green has direct benefits to our economic, social, and environmental status. According to a statistical report compiled by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, some of these benefits include:

Environmental benefits

• Enhance and protect biodiversity and ecosystems
• Improve air and water quality
• Reduce waste streams
• Conserve and restore natural resources

Economic benefits

• Reduce operating costs
• Create, expand, and shape markets for green product and services
• Improve occupant productivity
• Optimize life-cycle economic performance

Social benefits

• Enhance occupant comfort and health
• Heighten aesthetic qualities
• Minimize strain on local infrastructure
• Improve overall quality of life

In Pierce and Kitsap counties, the local Master Builders Association is working hard to create more avenues of information and education for those who want to go green. The goal is to offer an option for healthier more efficient homes which will contribute towards protecting our communities and local natural resources. The MBA is offering "BUILT GREEN" certification for both homeowners and contractors alike. By becoming certified, you will acquire the education needed to execute green projects and will be a step ahead as "BUILT GREEN" becomes the preferred consumer standard! For more information on getting certified, visit the Tacoma-Pierce County MBA or Kitsap MBA "BUILT GREEN" websites.