Posts Tagged ‘razor clams’

News From Fannie Mae

Everything! | Posted by Cheri Diehl

Thinking of purchasing an “REO” (bank owned) property?  Fannie Mae is offering homeowners up to 3.5% of closing costs if they can close by June 30.   Fannie Mae’s program, “Home Path” provides financing with low down payments and no mortgage insurance.  Note that you must be an “owner-occupant” to receive the closing assistance.  Inventory of REO homes on at the beach has dwindled in the past months – could it be we’re on the mend?

Ready to invest?  Here’s a deal you will want to check out.  Sellers own 13 lots with prices at $19,500 and $22,500.  They want to move them now!  All reasonable offers will be considered.  Buy more than one and get an even better deal!  Check out these Surfside lots zoned Multifamily/Commercial.  Build townhomes, condos, or single family residences. There is a potential for partial ocean views from some lots. The golf course is steps away and it’s a short, easy walk to the ocean. 

Listed at $19,500

Listed at $22,500

Clamming Tomorrow!

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) approved the dig – the second of two openings this month – after marine toxin tests showed that the clams on all four beaches are safe to eat. Two beaches – Long Beach and Twin Harbors – will open for digging April 19 through April 22 until noon each day, plus April 23 until 1 p.m.  Fishery managers agreed to an extra hour of digging Saturday, April 23, because low tide won’t occur until 11:27 a.m. that morning, said Dan Ayres, WDFW coastal shellfish manager.

Remember, Discovery Coast Real Estate is here to assist with all your needs, whether buying, selling or looking for a new career.  If you’re an experienced agent wanting to move to the beach and continue your career, please contact Designated Broker, Cheri Diehl.  Thinking of trying your hand at this interesting way of life?  We can get you started on the right path.  All inquiries are confidential.  See what lies ahead!

As a Buyer, how long can you afford to wait?

Everything!, Long Beach Peninsula, Real Estate | Posted by Cheri Diehl

I hear it everyday from buyers – I don’t think the market has “hit bottom” yet.  Can you afford to gamble on that?  There are a number of factors that, in my opinion, you need to consider while you’re waiting for the market to get even worse:

  • The home you’ve had your eye on will be sold to someone with a bit more faith in the economy and not willing to take the chance that the market is going to swing UP instead of continuing down.
  • The mortgage rate will spike just about the time you’re ready to make your move.  Read today’s report about Mortgage Fees on the Rise
  • The inventory will shrink as buyers make the move and start purchasing.  Right now there are plenty of homes to chose from – what will it be like when you’re finally off the fence?
  • You’re going to miss all the fun things going on at the beach this summer if you don’t get your home or vacation property soon!


Things are improving in Washington State.  The Northwest Multiple Listing Service reported in their 2010 Annual Report that closed sales of homes and condos was up 303 sales over 2009.   The median price for homes sold in Pacific County was $127,000.   Showings are strong right now and many offers are being written and accepted.  Some homes that were on the market for incredible periods of time are finally getting new owners. 

So, what will it take to get you off the fence?  Get down and talk to your lender and then contact one of the great Broker/Agents at Discovery Coast Real Estate.  They have all the info and expertise you need to make an informed and wise decision.  There are Sellers waiting for you!

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We can find you a home that fits purr-fectly!

Mortgage Rates are Rising…

Everything!, Long Beach Peninsula, Real Estate | Posted by Cheri Diehl

After about 8 weeks of unbelievable, historically low interest rates, things are starting to change.  30 year and 15 year fixed mortgages were up one-quarter of a percent.  They are still down considerably from a year ago.  So, buyers, if you were waiting for the rates to drop even more, don’t wait any longer!  While I don’t know where it will go from here, I do know that homes are starting to sell.  And as homes begin to sell, prices will begin to firm up and sellers will be a little less likely to lower their expectations.   I have heard many potential buyers say that they don’t believe we’re at the “bottom” yet and they want to wait and get the most bang for their buck.  Prices on property here at the beach (and there are many) are still more affordable than most places along the western coastline.  Don’t be one of the 20/20 hindsight group saying “I should have bought last year….”

And, while you’re here shopping for the perfect beach property, clamming is happening this weekend (evening tides) and Discovery Coast Real Estate has plenty of tide books to hand out.  And maybe you’ll want to check out the Cold Weather Survival forum at the Fort Clatsop Visitor Center in Oregon. 

Don’t feel like fighting the city crowds the weekend after Thanksgiving?  Then come to the beach!  In between looking at homes and/or land for sale, you can enjoy the Peninsula Art Association’s Studio Tour (Art is not fattening), or have some family fun during Holidays at the Beach.  Remember this Saturday  is “Small Business Saturday” – join the movement and shop local!

No matter what, please accept my best wishes for a wonderful Thanksgiving!

“Even if something is left undone…

Everything!, Long Beach Peninsula, Real Estate | Posted by Cheri Diehl

everyone must take time to sit still and watch the leaves turn.”  Elizabeth Lawrence

I love these days of fall when the sun shines one day and the storms hit the next!  You just never know what you’ll find when you wake up.

Wouldn’t it be fun to have your own new home in time for Christmas?  If you’re a first time home buyer (or maybe just need a reminder) here are some tips: http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20101027_buyers.htm

Discovery Coast Real Estate can take some of the stress out of buying a home, vacation home, property or making an investment in your future with real estate.  Call us today and you might be trimming the tree in your own home!

Thinking of razor clams?  Click the pic to get the dates! 

And when you’re done, be sure and visit one (or more) of the many fine dining establishments celebrating the Wild Mushroom season!

Last on my list for today, here’s a revised RESTAURANT HOLIDAY SCHEDULE ’10-’11 Rev.

if you haven’t already!


Happy May Day!

Everything!, Long Beach Peninsula, New Listings, Real Estate, Weaving & Spinning | Posted by Cheri Diehl

Can you believe it’s already May?  Bring on the sunshine!

So much going on this weekend -

Children’s Loyalty Day Parade in Ilwaco on Saturday.

Saturday Market at the Port of Ilwaco starts May 1.

Clatsop Weavers and Spinners Guild offer a free demo at the Port of Ilwaco.  You can even try weaving or spinning!

Clamming is happening right now!

Loyalty Day Parade in Long Beach May 2.

Blessing of the Fleet in Ilwaco on Saturday, May 1

The Long Beach Peninsula is just a wonderful place to visit.  For more information on events, visit Funbeach - it’s the greatest!

Looking for real estate while you’re having fun?  Our office is open 7 days a week.  If we’re out showing, call me at 360-244-2660.

Here are a few properties to tempt you,  just in time for fun at the beach:

29107529

Remember, Discovery Coast Real Estate can help with all your real estate needs.  We can show and sell any property listed for sale, help with for sale by owner homes, and sell your property for you.  We have homes and land on the beach, bay and all points in between!

Hot Property and Fun at the Beach!

Everything!, Long Beach Peninsula, Real Estate | Posted by Cheri Diehl


Just $129,900!


This is the home at the beach that you’ve been looking for!  The sellers are highly motivated and have reduced the price accordingly.  Well maintained, large yard, garage & carport…  click the photo for more info or call 360-642-3325.  You can also email Discovery Coast Real Estate for your private showing!

A quick run-down on what’s happening on the Long Beach Peninsula.  As the flowers bloom, the festivities do too!

April 24, 2010 – 18th Annual Black Lake Fishing Derby in Ilwaco.  7am-noon.  Ages 0-14.  Free registration!  Contact Normandie Hand.

Do you know about the Timberland Regional Library Foundation fundraiser?  It sounds like lots of fun.  It’s called Passport…to Timberland.  You can visit 27 unique libraries and the communities they’re in absolutely free from June 15-September 10, 2010.  You might even win a prize!

Business owners and the general public are invited to a Shred-A-Thon hosted by Arthur Strand Insurance Saturday, April 24 from 10-2.  You can shred your unwanted documents free of charge.  Behind Arthur Strand Insurance/Chinook Observer Building, 205 Bolstad Ave E, Long Beach.  For more info contact Arthur Strand Insurance. 642-2345.

RECREATIONAL RAZOR CLAM OPENER: The mid-April 2010 recreational razor clam opener will proceed as planned. The marine toxin tests have been completed and the Washington Department of Health has found razor clams are safe for human consumption. The following are the dates and locations of this razor clam harvest opportunity:

  • Friday, April 16, (8:32 A.M., -0.7) Long Beach and Twin Harbors only
  • Saturday, April 17, (9:12 A.M., -0.7) Long Beach, Twin Harbors and Kalaloch only
  • Sunday, April 18, (9:56 A.M., -0.6) Long Beach, Twin Harbors and Kalaloch only


Saturday Market at the Port of Ilwaco starts May 1!  Lots of fun for everyone.  The Clatsop Weavers and Spinners Guild will be holding a weaving/spinning demo.  Drop by and see us. Be sure to look for us on Facebook too.

Be a part of the exciting future and rich history of Ilwaco.  Look for them on Facebook (Discover Ilwaco).  Become a fan, suggest to your friends.

And don’t forget the 60th Annual Loyalty Day Celebration in Long Beach and Ilwaco.  Visit Funbeach for more info.

The Peninsula Players are hosting a workshop focused on fund raising for the community theater.  Although it is focusing on our situation.  I am sure there will be valued information for any non-profit.  All Peninsula Players are invited to attend free.  Other members of non-profits are invited to attend by paying the membership fee of $10.

The workshop is scheduled for 1 pm on Saturday April 18th at the 2nd Story Playhouse in Ilwaco.  The workshop will be led by Gay Campbell, a well known fund raising consultant.  Please RSVP to Rita Smith by email or phone 665-0028

And last, but not least, for this post – Keepers are needed for the North Head Lighthouse.  On May 16, 1898 the North Head Lighthouse was put into service.  Time has not been kind to this statuesque landmark and life saver.  For more information on how you can help, email Keepers of the North Head Lighthouse.  “Steadfast, serene, immovable, the same, Year after year, through all the silent night Burns on forevermore that quenchless flame, Shines on that inextinguishable light!”  From “The Lighthouse” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

Hope to see lots of you at these festivities or in real estate mode!  Remember, there’s still time to qualify for the home buyer stimulus bonus!  Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Credit Consequences

Everything!, Long Beach Peninsula, Real Estate | Posted by Cheri Diehl

Here’s an interesting article regarding what happens to your credit should you lose your home to foreclosure, be forced to do a short sale, file bankruptcy, etc.  CREDIT CONSEQUENCES

Remember, your credit score is priceless, so protect it!

Did you know there’s still time to qualify for the home buyer’s tax credit for 2010?  If you’ve been dragging your feet about buying a home because you didn’t think you’d make the cut-off, call me now and let’s get going!

Big Clamming Weekend coming up, along with the 6th Annual Bluegrass Festival.  Ongoing during Spring Breaks is the Spring Fling at the Kite Museum.

If you’re in the area, stop by the Shelburne Inn, Seaview, and chat with the Clatsop Weavers & Spinners Guild who demonstrate spinning Thursday evenings at 5:00 p.m.  Just to make it more special, this Thursday, March 25, from 5-7 pm, it’s the Twitter WAMerlot Wine Tasting!

And there’s one good reason to visit the beach (other than looking for real estate!) so check it out at FUNBEACH!

That’s all for now.  Enjoy the sunshine if you have it (we do!) and call me soon to take advantage of the tax credit, great prices, low interest rates and plenty to chose from.

Peninsula Happenings!

Everything!, Long Beach Peninsula, New Listings, Real Estate | Posted by Cheri Diehl
So much to do, it's exhausting!

So much to do, it's exhausting!

Just a few items of interest if you’re wondering what there is to do in the winter and early spring.

The Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum will be FREE for the month of March.  Free is a very good price!

Beach property is available in all sizes and shapes!  Whether you want a water view home or lot, cabin in the woods, condo on the beach, or townhouse overlooking the whole peninsula, start looking now and be settled in for summer!  Be sure and check our EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS, plus search the entire area through our interactive map on our home page, Discovery Coast Real Estate.

Tentative Clam Dates:  February 27-28.  Stay tuned!

Whale Watching: The northward migrations begin mid-March. The immature whales, adult males and females without calves are the first to head north, passing the Peninsula in March and April.(Courtesy of Funbeach)

quiltPeninsula Quilt Guild Show, March 20-21 at the Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum in Ilwaco.  Demos, raffle & refreshments!  Sponsored by Peninsula Quilt Guild, annalena.com and and the museum.




Spring Fling at the Kite Museum!  Each year, during spring breaks, the Museum focuses on family events. This year, the emphasis is on the two-line kite.  Each Saturday, there will be someone on the beach, teaching two-line kite flying.

6th Annual Bluegrass Festival, March 27, 28 & 29!  You’ve got to hear this!

Just a quick note to let you know about our newest agent, Warren Ani!  Warren is such an asset to Discovery Coast Real Estate!  If you have a minute, please say hi to him: warren@discoverycoastrealestate.com. He’s here to assist you in buying or selling.  Remember, we’re looking out for you!



Razor Clam Dig

Everything!, Long Beach Peninsula, Real Estate | Posted by Cheri Diehl

Bad news for those of you planning to dig clams – but there’s still lots of real estate to look at!

Marine toxin clouds razor clam dig,

prevents opening at Long Beach


OLYMPIA – Rising marine toxin levels have prompted the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) to cancel a razor clam dig scheduled at Long Beach and delay final decisions about digs at Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks beaches until next week.


Olympic National Park will also wait until next week to decide on a dig at Kalaloch Beach, pending the results of further biotoxin testing.


Previous plans for a dig starting late next week were put on hold after routine testing found elevated levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) in clams collected on coastal beaches, said Dan Ayres, WDFW coastal shellfish manager.


PSP is a marine toxin produced by a certain type of algae that can cause paralysis and even death if consumed in sufficient quantities.


Ayres said toxin levels in clams dug this week at Long Beach violate health standards established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, ruling out an opening at that beach.  Early next week, WDFW will conduct additional tests on clams collected at the other beaches, where PSP levels also appear to be on the rise.


“It’s always disappointing to cancel a razor clam dig, and we hate to make people wait for answers on the other beaches,” Ayres said.  “But public safety comes first, which is why we test razor clams before every public dig.”


Ayres said final decisions on a revised razor-clam opening will be announced by Thursday, Jan. 28.  Unless it is canceled, the dig at Twin Harbors will be delayed, since it was originally scheduled to open Jan. 27, Ayres said.


Updates on the razor clam dig scheduled for next week will be posted on WDFW’s website athttp://wdfw.wa.gov/fish/shelfish/razorclm/season.htm.


Frank Cox, marine biotoxin coordinator for the Washington Department of Health, said he suspects PSP is moving northward from the Oregon coast, where beaches have been closed to razor clam digging since December.


“There are a lot of uncertainties about how this will affect Washington beaches, which is why we recommend erring on the side of caution,” he said.


Cox noted that the PSP toxin cannot be removed by cooking or freezing.  Although no human fatalities from PSP have been reported in Washington since 1942, people still get sick every few years – usually after eating toxic shellfish collected from closed beaches, Cox said.


No coastal beaches have been closed to razor-clam digging because of elevated PSP levels since 1993, Ayres said.  A different marine toxin, domoic acid, prompted a season-long closure in 2002-03.



Clam Dates Announced!

Everything!, Long Beach Peninsula, Real Estate | Posted by Cheri Diehl

clamNEWS RELEASE Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife October 29, 2009Contact: Dan Ayres, (360) 249-4628 Razor clam dig on 2 ocean beaches starts Nov. 4

OLYMPIA – Clam diggers got the go-ahead to proceed with the second razor-clam dig of the fall season starting Wednesday, Nov. 4, on evening tides at two ocean beaches.  Long Beach will open on Nov. 4, 6 and 7 only. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) approved the digs after a series of marine toxin tests confirmed the clams were safe to eat. Digging at the beaches will be restricted to the hours between noon and midnight.

Additional digging opportunities are planned at five ocean beaches in mid-November. Dan Ayres, WDFW coastal shellfish manager, said the department was able to offer the early November digs at Long Beach and Twin Harbors due to the abundant razor clam populations on those beaches. “With more clams available for harvest south of Grays Harbor, we can offer these digging opportunities in addition to the ones that will include all beaches coming up later this month,” Ayres said.

The best time to start digging is an hour or two before low tide, said Ayres, who also recommends that clam diggers take lights or lanterns and check weather and surf conditions before heading out. Harvesters are allowed to take no more than 15 razor clams and must keep the first 15 they dig, regardless of size or condition. Each digger’s clams must be kept in a separate container. A license is required for anyone age 15 or older. Any 2009 annual shellfish/seaweed license or combination fishing license is still valid. Another option is a razor-clam only license available in annual or three-day only versions. Descriptions of the various options are available on the WDFW website at fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov.

Opening dates and evening low tides FOR LONG BEACH are:  Wednesday, Nov. 4 (7:33 p.m. -1.3 ft.), Friday, Nov. 6 (9:07 p.m. -0.9 ft.) Saturday, Nov. 7 (9:59 p.m. -0.5 ft.)

In addition, WDFW has tentatively scheduled three other digs through Jan. 3. Dates scheduled in mid-November are:  Saturday, Nov. 14 (4:34 p.m. -0.3 ft.) , Sunday, Nov. 15 (5:21 p.m. -0.7 ft.), Monday, Nov. 16 (6:05 p.m. -0.9 ft.)

Dates scheduled Dec. 2 through Jan. 3 are:

Wednesday, Dec. 2 (6:32 p.m. -1.2 ft.) ,  Friday, Dec. 4 (8:04 p.m. -1.3 ft.) Saturday, Dec. 5 (8:51 p.m. -0.9 ft.) Thursday, Dec. 31 (6:16 p.m. -1.1 ft.), Friday, Jan. 1 (7:01 p.m. -1.8 ft.) ,Saturday, Jan. 2 (7:45 p.m. -1.6 ft.),  Sunday, Jan. 3 (8:29 p.m. -1.2 ft.)

Thanks to Funbeach for this update.  I will have 2010 Tide Books in the office starting next week!  Drop by and pick up a couple.

Have you checked out the home page of Discovery Coast Real Estate?  How do you like the new look?