Puget Sound Real Estate and Community Blog

The Maple Hills neighborhood in Renton lives up to the grandeur its name implies, with sweeping views of Mount Rainier, close proximity to Lakes McDonald and Kathleen, numerous hiking and biking trails around the edge of the neighborhood and membership access to the Maple Hills Community Park and Pool.

Maple Hills is located between Renton, Maple Valley and Issaquah. I-405, I-90 and HWY 169 are all easy to get to, so it is a nice central location from which to get around.
The neighborhood consists of about 400 homes. Many residents choose Maple Hills because they have discovered that by moving a little farther south on the Eastside they could get a bigger and newer house for their money.

According to Estately.com, the 133 homes for sale in East Renton Highlands which is home to Maple Hills Estates have an average price of $551,467. The average home is 2,897 square feet, has 3.8 bedrooms, and 2.6 bathrooms. The typical home for sale in East Renton Highlands was built in 1992, which is a little newer than the typical home for sale in Washington.
Located in the center of the vibrant neighborhood, Maple Hills Elementary School’s volunteers include parents, community members, retirees, middle and high school students some of whom are “alumni”. Each year, in classrooms, the library, and throughout the school, 10,000 to 12,000 hours are donated to benefit the students.

The PTA supports the school in a wide variety of ways and with unending dedication and enthusiasm. The PTA has earned the 100% Membership award, the State PTA Standards of Excellence Award and the National Honor Unit Award.

The Maple Hills Park just north of Maple Hills Elementary School is a major asset to the neighborhood and a gathering place for many Maple Hills residents.

With a large play area, two tennis courts, basketball courts, horseshoe pits, barbeque pits, ample parking and a swimming pool, it is a popular destination. Summer at Maple Hills Park is full of activities such as movie nights, social feeds and the 4th of July Neighborhood Parade, 5K Run and Fireworks. The park also hosts sporting events for soccer, football and baseball leagues. The community pool offers swimming lessons and sponsors the Maple Hills Marlins, a competitive swim team.

The homeowners association, which meets monthly, can be found online at http://sites.google.com/site/maplehillsorgsite/.  Association Dues are less than $300 per year.

To learn more about home homes for sale in Maple Hills, visit http://www.davidjedwards.com/34057.asp.

Best Regards,

David J Edwards
Real Estate Agent & REALTOR
The David J Edwards Team
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 425-890-8045
Fax: 425-902-1899
E-Mail: david@davidjedwards.com
Website: http://www.davidjedwards.com
Blogsite: http://www.davidjedwards..com/real-estate-blog.asp
Mobile Site: http://davidjedwards.mofuse.mobi
Community Reports: http://www.topmarketer.net/CSR/CSReport.aspx?CV4GU5KAYOEF
View This Week’s Market Conditions Around Your Home: http://www.homeinsight.com/Widget/default.asp?BFBMVVHW4HZT

The David J Edwards Team specializes in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers.

Although it’s sometimes hard to feel, home purchase activity in the Northwest is trending upward. In the first quarter of 2009 the percentage of home purchases vs. refinances increased from 11% in January to 23% in March.
Although still a long way from the 7 to 3 purchase to refinance ratio of a few years ago, it’s heading in the right direction.

We don’t really want to be where we were a few years ago anyway. The more steady the recovery, the more likely we are to avoid another runup that will borrow buyers from the future. We want the recovery to take the shape of a “V” rather than the shape of a “W” which would result in another drop before we stabalize.

A slowdown could easily be caused by the Federal Government’s failure to renew the first time homebuyer tax credit and/or a rise in interest rates for home loans.

Best Regards

David J Edwards
Real Estate Agent & REALTOR
The David J Edwards Team
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 425-890-8045
Fax: 425-902-1899
E-Mail: david@davidjedwards.com
Website: http://www.davidjedwards.com
Blogsite: http://www.davidjedwards.com/real-estate-blog.asp
Mobile Site: http://davidjedwards.mofuse.mobi
Community Reports: http://www.topmarketer.net/CSR/CSReport.aspx?CV4GU5KAYOEF
View This Week’s Market Conditions Around Your Home: http://www.homeinsight.com/Widget/default.asp?BFBMVVHW4HZT

The David J Edwards Team specializes in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers.

The Renton Police Department has launched a new crime-fighting tool on the city’s website called Renton’s Most Wanted. Check it out at http://www.rentonwa.gov/living/default.aspx?id=21588.

David J Edwards
Real Estate Agent & REALTOR
The David J Edwards Team
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 425-890-8045
Fax: 425-902-1899
E-Mail: david@davidjedwards.com
Website: http://www.davidjedwards.com
Blogsite: http://www.davidjedwards.com/real-estate-blog.asp
Mobile Site: http://davidjedwards.mofuse.mobi
Community Reports: http://www.topmarketer.net/CSR/CSReport.aspx?CV4GU5KAYOEF

View This Week’s Market Conditions Around Your Home: http://www.homeinsight.com/Widget/default.asp?BFBMVVHW4HZT
 
The David J Edwards Team specializes in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers.

23405 54th Ave S #4-2 Kent, WA 98032

Closing Date: 01/30/09
List Price: $329,000
Sale Price: $318,000
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2.5
Year Built: 1996
Square Feet: 1242
MLS: 28075575

You’re going to love this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom townhome at Promenade at the
Lakes. A bright kitchen opens to the living and dining area with laminate floors
and a cozy fireplace. A slider leads to the private patio and storage closet.
Enjoy an attached garage and additional parking space. This is a quiet planned
community with trails and parks, close to Kent Station, a golf course, and the
new Kent Event Center. There is easy access to freeways too.

This home is no longer available. However, if you would like to preview homes
similiar to this, visit my website at
http://www.davidjedwards.com/search-for-homes.asp or contact me directly to
arrange for a free buyer’s consultation.

Best Regards!

David Edwards
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 425-890-8045
E-Mail: david@davidjedwards.com
Website: http://www.davidjedwards.com
Blogsite: http://www.davidjedwards.com/renton-info-blog.asp
David J Edwards is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller
Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers.

Washington REALTORS is pleased to announce that our meeting with the Department
of Revenue (DOR) has resulted in a reversal of its interpretation regarding Real
Estate Excise Tax (REET) and short sales. Yesterday afternoon, the Department of
Revenue contacted Washington REALTORS® to inform us that DOR will issue a letter
to clarify that in short sales, the Real Estate Excise Tax does not apply to
debt forgiven by the seller’s lender.
This decision follows a meeting that REALTORS requested of the agency in order
to allow stakeholders to provide input on the interpretation of the REET statute
and other policy considerations. DOR immediately responded to the request for
stakeholder input and expedited its review of this issue due to its importance
to home sellers and the housing market

Download the letter from DOR here:
http://www.warealtor.org/press/Short-Sales-Letter-to-Stakeholders-1-13-09.pdf

David J Edwards
REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 425-890-8045
Fax: 425-902-1899
E-Mail: david@davidjedwards.com
Website: http://www.davidjedwards.com
Blogsite: http://www.davidjedwards.com/real-estate-blog.asp
Mobile Site: http://davidjedwards.mofuse.mobi
Community Reports: http://www.topmarketer.net/CSR/CSReport.aspx?CV4GU5KAYOEF
 
David J Edwards is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR with Keller
Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers.

20623 SE 198th Street, Renton, WA, 98058

Price: $789,000
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3.25
Year Built: 1985
Square Feet: 4,330
MLS: 29002082

This beautiful four bedroom home sits on five acres of fenced land complete with mature landscaping, a large stand alone shop and a separate stable. The home has undergone $50,000 in renovations and benefits from a new roof as well as fresh paint and new flooring throughout. Boasting a kitchen with double ovens as well as a formal living room, family room, loft, den, recreation room and billiards room, this home provides functional space for every need.

For More Information Visit: http://www.davidjedwards.com/31406.asp
Virtual Tour: http://www.flyinside.com/tour.php?id=31406

Driving Directions: SE Renton Maple Valley Rd/WA 169. Turn Right onto 196th Ave SE. Turn Left onto SE 192nd St. Turn Right onto 208th Ave SE. Turn Right onto SE 198th St. End at 20623.

If you would like to preview this home, please contact me to arrange for a private showing.

Best Regards!

David Edwards
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 425-890-8045
E-Mail: david@davidjedwards.com
Website: http://www.davidjedwards.com
Blogsite: http://www.davidjedwards.com/renton-info-blog.asp
David J Edwards is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers.

A resident and business favorite, Newcastle Days is a celebration of the culture and spirit of our community. Entering its 14th year, the festival continues to grow into a showcase of art, service, community and business. Newcastle Days is a living experience of the treasures to be found right under your nose. Admission is FREE! Sponsorship opportunites are still available! Contact Jules Maas at julesm@ci.newcastle.wa.us, or visit the City’s Website at http://www.ci.newcastle.wa.us/ch_cds_pw_petr_se_newcastledays.asp for more information.

David Edwards
REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 425-890-8045
Fax: 425-902-1899
E-Mail: david@davidjedwards.com
Website: http://www.davidjedwards.com
Blogsite: http://www.davidjedwards.com/renton-info-blog.asp
Mobile Site: http://davidjedwards.mofuse.mobi
Community Reports: http://www.topmarketer.net/CSR/CSReport.aspx?CV4GU5KAYOEF
 
David J Edwards is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers.

Newcastle City Hall
6:00 - 8:00 PM
September 15th, 2008

Join us for Newcastle’s Sports Park Facility at our third Open House. Come see the preferred site design alternative and provide input towards the development.

Ed MacLeod, Landscape Architect of MacLeod Reckord will be present to give a brief presentation pertaining to the details of the preferred alternative.

For additional information contact Michael Holly, Parks Program Manager at 425-649-4444 X 142 or e-mail michaelh@ci.newcastle.wa.us

David Edwards
REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 425-890-8045
Fax: 425-902-1899
E-Mail: david@davidjedwards.com
Website: http://www.davidjedwards.com
Blogsite: http://www.davidjedwards.com/renton-info-blog.asp
Mobile Site: http://davidjedwards.mofuse.mobi
Community Reports: http://www.topmarketer.net/CSR/CSReport.aspx?CV4GU5KAYOEF
 
David J Edwards is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers.

With the coming of spring the days get longer, the air gets warmer, the birds begin to sing. As you look around, you see many changes taking place but the most stunning transformation has to be in the plants. Almost magically, barren branches start to bud, brown grass turns green, and tiny little shoots push up through the soil; and with the changing of the season, we close another chapter of events that have come to define winters in the Pacific Northwest.

Nonetheless, when one door closes, another opens and with that, we are given an opportunity to enjoy the vast array of springtime activities that are also unique to our region.

If you are looking for things to do in Renton, Newcastle, Bellevue and the surrounding area, I have updated my Local Community Events Calendar found online at:
http://www.davidjedwards.com/events-calendar.asp

There are literally hundreds of pacific northwest events on the calendar. Some of the most recent additions have been added to the pre-school programs page and are listed below.

Performances (Stage):
Once Upon a Mattress - July 25th - August 10th - Carco Theatre
In this hilarious tweaking of the fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea,” Queen Aggravain has ruled that “Throughout the land no one may wed until Dauntless marries.” However, she has managed to sabotage every princess that comes along using a series of impassable tests. When Sir harry and Lady Larken learn that they are going to be parents, he goes off to the swamps and brings back Princess Winnifred the Woebegone. The queen is horrified by Winnifred herself, as well as the obvious attraction between the prince and the new soggy princess. She immediately begins to think of new ways to undermine the budding relationship. Tempers flare and tales twist, but with some help from the King, the Minstrel, and the Jester, Winnifred isn’t going to be quite so easy to get rid of. friday and Saturday performances at 7:30 PM. Sunday performances at 2:00 PM. Call 425-430-6751 for tickets.

Performances (Music):
Renton City Concert Band - June 25th
Duwamish Dixieland Jazz - July 2nd
Handful of Luvin - July 9th
Amber Tide - July 16th
Craicmore - July 23rd
Panduo Steeldrum - July 30th
Creme Tangerine - August 6th
Darren Motamedy - August 13th
The music starts at 7:00 PM at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park next to Ivar’s/Idd Valley.

Youth Programs:
Picnic Pizzazz
Bring your picnic lunch and join us for fun-filled entertainment at Kiwanis Park (815 Union Ave NE) on Thursdays from 12:00 to 1:00 PM.
July 10th - Roberto the Magnificent
July 17th - WOOFD2
July 31st - Jeff Evans
August 7th - The Noise Guy
August 14th - Eric Herman

Nightlife:
Moonlight Movies at Liberty Park
If you remember the old Fey’s Roxy Theater in downtown then you are sure to enjoy Renton’s outdoor cinema on Saturdays in Liberty Park. Start making new movie memories with your friends and family. Seating opens at 7:00 PM. Only low-back chairs and blankets are allowed in the front viewing section.
Harispray - July 12th
The Bucket List - July 19th
Some Like It Hot - August 2nd
The Spiderwick Chronicles - August 9th
Meatballs - August 16th
Surf’s Up (at Henry Moses Aquatic Center) Gates open at 8:00 PM. Admission $5. August 23rd

Seasonal Events:
Renton’s Fabulous 4th of July - Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park - 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Our annual event features free children’s inflatables and face-painting from 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM, and wonderful stage entertainment from 1:00 PM - 9:30 PM. Renton River Days 2008 souvenirs will be on sale at the Information Booth. The fireworks display, at approximately 10:00 PM, will cater to spectators along the shoreline and be visible from the hills surrounding south Lake Washington. Food will be available at the beach concession stand, IVar’s and Kidd Valley. Parking will be available in Boeing lots located at North 6th St. and Park Ave. North, and North 6th St. and Garden Ave. North. Free Shuttle Express service will be provided to the park from these lots from 9:00 AM to approximately midnight. Additional parking will be available for a fee at The Bristol Apartments at Southport, located between Coulon Park and Boeing. Please note that personal fireworks, alcohol, pets, pop-up canopies and enclosed tents are prohibited. Only small-size barbecues permitted.

Return to Renton Cruise-In - Downtown Renton @ South 3rd St - July 6th - 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Cruise back in time and check out classic vehicles at the Annual Return to Renton Benefit Car Show. Free admission for spectators with fun entertainment for the entire family. Call 425-430-7589 or visit www.GoRenton.com.

Seasonal Events:
IKEA Renton River Days July 23rd & 25th - 27th
“Explore the Heart of Renton” - Liberty Park - Join us for festival fun during Renton’s largest community celebration! Enjoy festival favorites such as Kids’ Day, the parade, Rubber Ducky Derby, stage entertainment, food, and arts and crafts. For the complete schedule of events with dates, times and locations, call 425-430-6528 or visit www.rentonriverdays.org.

Galleries:
Downtown Renton Art/Antique Walk - August 23rd - 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Annual Downtown Renton Art & Antique Walk will liven up downtown streets with paintings, pottery, sculpture, and photography displays from over 75 artists. Meet artists, explore the antiques and re-discover downtown. For more information, call 425-430-6589 or visit www.artsunlimited.org.

Farmers Markets:
Renton Farmers Market - June 3rd through September 16th - 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
The Renton Farmers Market is located at the Piazza at S. 3rd Street and Burnett Ave. S. The Renton Farmers Market is filled with juicy berries, leafy lettuce, vine ripened tomatoes, and a cornucopia of other farm fresh produce, cut flowers, baked goods and more. Enjoy the weekly chef series, entertainment and activities for kids. For a complete schedule visit www.rentonfarmersrmarket.com or call 425-430-7214.
If you have something you would like to see added to the calendar, please submit your request by responding to this post with a comment. Please limit your event postings to those taking place in Washington State’s King, Pierce, Thurston, Snohomish, Skagit, Lewis, Mason, Island, Grays Harbor and/or Kitsap counties.

Event information is subject to cancellation or change. Please phone ahead to confirm event dates, times and costs.

Have a great weekend!

David Edwards
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 425-890-8045
E-Mail: david@davidjedwards.com
Website: http://www.davidjedwards.com
Blogsite: http://www.davidjedwards.com/renton-info-blog.asp

David J Edwards is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Renton Highlands, Newcastle and South Bellevue.

Open House Sunday June 8th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
372 Shangri La Way NW Issaquah, WA 98027   

Price: 359,890
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 2.5
Square Feet: 1090 SF
Lot Size: 913 SF
Year Built: 2003
MLS: 28083020

This built-green townhome boasts an open floor plan, 2 car tandem garage & 2 master suites! The dining area flows to a family room with a fireplace & deck access overlooking a greenspace commons. The kitchen features granite counters & stainless appliances as well as a pantry & room for a breakfast nook. The primary master suite accommodates a king size bed, features 2 walk-in closets & a 5 piece bath with an oversized tub & raised counters. This Talus home is adjacent to a state park & busline.

Property Website: http://davidjedwards111.topproducerwebsite.com/23614.asp
Virtual Tour: http://www.flyinside.com/tour.php?id=23614

Directions: From I-90, Take Exit 15. Head South on SR 900. Turn right onto Talus Drive. Turn right onto Shangri La Way NW. Home is on right.

If you can’t make it to the open house but would still like to preview this home, please contact me to arrange for a private showing.

Best Regards!

David Edwards
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 425-890-8045
E-Mail: david@davidjedwards.com
Website: http://www.davidjedwards.com
Blogsite: http://www.davidjedwards.com/renton-info-blog.asp
David J Edwards is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers on the Eastside.