Washington State Department of Transportation Update

You can always find real-time traffic information online or by dialing 5-1-1. To learn more about what WSDOT is doing, go to wsdot.wa.gov/news for pictures videos, news and blogs.
SR 522 in Bothell gets a new traffic signal If you’re headed through Bothell on SR 522, be prepared to slow down and stop. Crews recently installed a new traffic signal at the intersection of SR 522 and Woodinville Drive. The new light is the latest safety improvement in the $50 million SR 522 UW Bothell/Cascadia Community College campus access project. In fall 2009, crews will reprogram the signal and open the roadway to the new south entrance of the UW Bothell/Cascadia Community College campus. For more information visit the project Web page at http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/SR522/UW/.

Sound Transit seeks comments on light rail to the Eastside The Eastside is one step closer to finding out where its light rail line will run in the future. On Dec. 12, Sound Transit, along with the Federal Transit Administration and WSDOT released the draft environmental impact statement (EIS) for East Link, which would bring light rail to the Eastside via I-90. They are evaluating the benefits and impacts of potential light rail routes from downtown Seattle to the Eastside via I-90 with stations serving Seattle, Mercer Island, south Bellevue, downtown Bellevue and the Bel-Red/Overlake area. The EIS also examines potential routes to downtown Redmond that could be built as part of a future expansion. Sound Transit wants to hear feedback on the study and has kicked off a 75-day public comment period. Five public hearings are planned in Redmond, Seattle, Mercer Island and Bellevue so people can comment on the draft EIS. The public review and comment period will continue through Feb. 25 and will help the Sound Transit Board identify a preferred East Link route. The draft EIS analyzes the potential impacts of the different routes and identifies ways to minimize adverse impacts. The preferred route will be described in the final environmental impact statement which is expected to be completed in 2010. For more information on the East Link project, a list of the upcoming public hearings and how to comment, visit Sound Transit’s Web page at http://www.soundtransit.org/x3245.xml#comment.

New bridge on I-405 open to traffic, bottleneck relief is next Last week WSDOT unveiled a new southbound I-405 freeway bridge over I-90. Early next year, they'll open a new northbound I-405 lane and an improved on-ramp. Two lanes of traffic have already shifted to the new 900-foot-long bridge. The carpool lane will remain on the existing southbound bridge. Splitting the lanes over the two bridges creates a work zone so crews can put the finishing touches on the transitions between the bridge and the roadway. In a few months the carpool lane will join the other lanes on the new bridge. Early next year, they’ll open a new northbound lane on I-405 from 112th Ave SE to I-90 easing a major chokepoint commuters have experienced for years as they travel north toward Bellevue. Carpoolers and bus riders will also benefit from improvements on the 112th Ave SE on-ramp to northbound I-405. The new on-ramp features a ramp meter and carpool bypass lane that will improve traffic flow on the freeway. For more information on this project, please visit the project Web site at http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/i405/112thAvetoSE8th/.

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

The Real Reason Behind the Economic Crisis

This past year has been unlike any other. The crisis in the financial markets seems to be the top story on every news channel. But many of the reporters don't understand what really happened...and what may happen next. I'm pleased to share with you a short video that was given to me by L'Tanya Terrell Jones. She is a lender with Windermere Mortgage Services in Auburn and can be reached via telephone at 206-686-5857 or via e-mail at ltjones@windermere.com.

The video was created to put an end to the confusion once and for all! In the video, Barry Habib, Founder of the Mortgage Market Guide and Chairman of the Board for Mortgage Success Source, explains in layman's terms exactly what caused the current financial crisis - and what to be watching for in the near future.

Please take a moment to view the video by clicking on the link below. It will open your eyes to what very few "experts" truly understand.
http://www.mortgagesuccesssource.com/go/markmarket/

And as your trusted advisor, I'm committed to doing whatever I can to help you understand what the current economic situation means for you going forward in 2009.

Please feel free to contact me if I can be of any assistance to you!

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.

Price Reduced on Townhome in Issaquah with 2 Master Suites!

372 Shangri La Way NW Issaquah, WA 98027

New Price: $338,818
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 2.5
Year Built: 2003
MLS: 28079287

Contemporary finishes & elegant details lead you through airy and open rooms flooded with natural light. Gaze out your expansive windows at the timbered mountains and lush woodlands. Create a meal to remember in your stylish kitchen, take advantage of high-speed Internet access or spend a cozy evening curled up in front of your fireplace with a good book. Your home is complete with dual walk-in closets, vaulted ceilings throughout, an oversized soaking tub and a wide two car tandem garage.

For More Information Visit: http://www.davidjedwards.com/23614.asp
Virtual Tour: http://www.flyinside.com/tour.php?id=23614

Driving 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 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/real-estate-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.

Price Reduced on 2 Bedroom Condo in Tukwila with views of Mount Rainier!

15310 Macadam Rd South Road S, #A202 Tukwila, WA, 98188

New Price: $224,818

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 2

Square Feet: 1,192

Year Built: 1997

MLS: 28034724

This beautiful condominium boasts an incredible balcony with wrap around views of Mt Rainier & the valley. You'll love the nine foot ceilings & oversized kitchen with its abundant counter space & breakfast nook. The spacious master bedroom features a bathroom ensuite, exceptional closet space & balcony access. You'll enjoy controlled access to the building, a private courtyard, elevators & a covered garage where you'll find two assigned parking spaces. This condo has easy access to I5 & I405.

For More Information Visit: http://www.davidjedwards.com/20483.asp

Virtual Tour: http://www.flyinside.com/tour.php?id=20483

Driving Directions: From I5, Take the Southcenter Exit. Head East on Southcenter Blvd. Left on Macadam Rd. Visitor parking is on the right in front of the building. Follow instructions in key box to find specific unit.

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/real-estate-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.

Mortgage Market Update

Bonds and home loan rates spent last week testing their previous best levels of 2008, and finally rallied on Friday to reach their best levels not just of 2008 but of the last five years. Stocks, meanwhile, were under pressure throughout the week waiting to see whether Congress would approve emergency loans for GM and Chrysler. While the House of Representatives approved the measure Wednesday evening, the Senate rejected the $14 billion bailout for the US automakers on Thursday evening, citing a lack of wage concessions by the United Auto Workers (UAW). Friday, the White House announced that the government may be willing to use Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP) funds to prevent an immediate collapse of the auto industry. One thing we can be sure of in this matter is that the volatility for both Stocks and Bonds will continue while this issue remains unresolved.

There were other important happenings in Washington to note last week. Five members of the House Financial Services Committee are sponsoring a bill that would force the SEC to reinstate the uptick rule. The uptick rule is a former rule established by the SEC that requires every short sale transaction to be entered at a price that is higher than the price of the previous trade. So what would the reinstatement of the uptick rule mean for Bonds and home loan rates? The reinstatement of the uptick rule would do a lot to quiet the excessive volatility in both Stocks and Bonds.

In other important news to note last week, the Retail Sales report for November showed that retail sales fell for a fifth straight month. Meanwhile, Initial Jobless Claims reached their highest level in 26 years. Both of these reports are indicative of the current economic climate, and given the events of the week in Washington, they had minimal impact on Bonds and home loan rates.
As mentioned above, Bonds and home loan rates rallied Friday afternoon to reach their best levels of the year. As a result, they ended the week .25 percent better than where they began. There may be an opportunity for you to reduce your home loan payments, feel free to contact me so I can refer you to a qualified lender.

Tuesday will be a big day this week as more news from Washington may rock the markets. First, the Fed will be holding another regularly scheduled meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC). Look for the Fed to cut the Fed Funds rate (the rate for overnight loans between banks) by a half point, to 0.50 percent. While a cut by the Fed often causes home loan rates to rise (because a Fed cut can lead to inflation, which is the arch enemy of Bonds and home loan rates), the deflationary environment we are currently in may prevent home loan rates from worsening. Another event to note on Tuesday is the release of November's Consumer Price Index (CPI) Report. This widely watched inflation indicator tells us how much more expensive goods and services are this month over last month, and with recent concerns on deflation - this will be an important report to watch.

Bonds and home loan rates ended the week at their best levels of this year and in over five years. Let me know if you want some more information about how you can take advantage of the current situation.

Price Reduced! 3 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Single Family Home in Buckley

253 N 3rd St Buckley WA 98321

New Price: $209,818

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 1

Year Built: 1972

MLS: 28182481

This Home Is Move-In-Ready & Features A Large Kitchen With Dinette Area That Leads Out To A Patio & Private Yard Complete With A Fire Pit And A Full Fence. This Home's Interior Has Been Freshly Painted & Upgraded With New Carpet & Laminate Flooring. The Home Boasts 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom And A Fireplace That Will Keep You Warm On Cold Winter Nights. Owner Financing Is Available!

For More Information Visit: http://www.davidjedwards.com/30111.asp

Virtual Tour: http://www.flyinside.com/tour.php?id=30111

Driving Directions: From Hwy 410, Left onto S 3rd St. End at 253 N 3rd St.
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/real-estate-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.

Price Reduced! 4 Bedroom, 2.5 Bathroom Single Family Home with Lake Sammamish Beach Rights

19117 SE 43rd Street, Issaquah, WA, 98027

New Price: 674,950

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 2.5

Year Built: 1982

MLS: 28183038

Boasting Waterfront beach rights, a private three acre community park with open space, tennis courts and a jungle gym, this home has it all! This elegant property sits on a quiet street in the established neighborhood of South Cove. It's been upgraded with custom paint, a wine refrigerator and a barbecue gas line on a patio that overlooks a large fully landscaped private yard. There is a gas-ignited-wood-burning fireplace in the family room and a steam shower in the master suite. You'll love the new carpet, granite counters, surround sound speaker system, access to freeways and the Issaquah schools.

For More Information Visit: http://www.davidjedwards.com/30163.asp

Virtual Tour: http://www.flyinside.com/tour.php?id=30163
Open House: December 14th, 2008 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM

Driving Directions: From I-90, Take Exit 13, Take the ramp toward W. Lake Sammamish PKWY SE, Turn RIGHT on W LK Sammamish, Left on 188th Ave, Right on SE 42nd PL, 42nd PL becomes 191st, 191st becomes SE 43rd St.

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/real-estate-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.

Just Sold! 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom Condo at Renton Ridge in Renton

Just Sold! 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom Condo at Renton Ridge in Renton!

Posted by David Edwards under For Buyers, For Sellers, For Realty Professionals, Regional - West, Listings, New Listings, Renton, Market

975 Aberdeen Ave NE #C106, Renton, WA, 98056

Price: $175,000

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 2

Year Built: 1990

Square Feet: 870

MLS: 28129835

This home has beautiful hardwood floors, a fireplace, new paint & new lighting. The master has a walk through closet & bath ensuite. The large dining area & open concept kitchen is complete with breakfast bar. All appliances stay. This is the only condo in the community with a private entry & large front patio. The cabana is complete with a kitchen & exercise room. It overlooks a pool & hot tub. There is also a covered picnic area, children's playgound, sports court & dog park.

For More Information Visit: http://www.davidjedwards.com/26352.asp

Virtual Tour: http://www.flyinside.com/tour.php?id=26352

This home is no longer available. However, if you would like to preview homes similiar to this, please contact me to arrange for a free buyer's consultation.

Best Regards!

David Edwards

REALTOR®

Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound

Phone: 425-890-8045E-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.

Just Sold! 3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom Single Family Home in Kent!

Posted by David Edwards under For Buyers, Regional - West, Listings, Kent

12424 Southeast 202nd Pl, Kent, WA, 98031

Price: $226,742

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2

Year Built: 1973

Square Feet: 1060

MLS: 28166269

This Home Is Move-In-Ready & Features A Large Kitchen With Dinette Area That Leads Out To A Deck & Private Yard Complete With Mature Landscaping, A Full Fence & A Jungle Gym. This Home’s Interior Has Been Freshly Painted & Upgraded With New Carpet & Laminate Flooring. There Are 3 Bedrooms, 1.75 Bathrooms & An Oversized 2 Car Garage That Has Plenty Of Extra Space For Storage & A Shop. The Master Bedroom Has A Large Closet & Bath Of Its Own. The Fireplace Will Keep You Cozy On Cold Winter Nights.

For More Information Visit: http://www.davidjedwards.com/12424.asp

If you would like to preview homes similiar to this, please contact me 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.

Just Sold! 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Condo in Renton!

Posted by David Edwards under For Buyers, Regional - West, Listings, Renton, Prices

801 Rainier Ave NE, #G334, Renton WA 98057

Price: $156,818

Bedrooms: 1

Bathrooms: 1

Year Built: 1998

Square Feet: 680

MLS: 27191233

Come home to your meticulously maintained, top floor condo & relax as you take in the unobstructed greenbelt view. All appliances stay.

The complex is a beautifully landscaped gated community that is professionally managed. Dues are exceptionally low & include landscaping, clubhouse, gated entry, pool, hot tub, & tanning room. You'll be proud of the updated cabinetry, double paned windows, deck storage & designer paint.

Easy access to freeways & The Landing. 1 Year AHS Home Warranty is included!

For More Information Visit: http://www.davidjedwards.com/17007.asp

Virtual Tour: http://www.flyinside.com/tour.php?id=17007

If you would like to preview homes similiar to this, please contact me 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.