Annual Oyster RunThe Anacortes Oyster Run is one of the largest annual events hosted by the City of Anacortes. When is it on!This year the event will be held on Saturday, September 22nd. Although the official event is held on Saturday, bikers  and spectators start arriving in Anacortes on the Friday and celebrations continue throughout the weekend. Where is it held?Bikes will be lined up along both sides and the middle of Commercial Ave and several side streets in the  "Old Town" area. vendors also line the side streets selling food, biker gear and a large array of biker and non bikers fun stuff. Who is InvitedEveryone! Bikers and bikes of all varieties will descend on Anacortes this weekend. If you own a bike, join in the fun. If you just want to come and join in the celebration, all a... 09/16/2013

Anacortes- The Salmon Canning Capitol of the World!These Sidewalk Salmon Cans show the fascinating history of Anacortes as the center of the fishing and canning industry in the Puget Sound area.Take a short stroll down Commercial Ave and the Waterfront area near Cap Sante Marina to view these colorful cans. The reproduction of the Old Salmon Can labels is based on those used by local salmon packers in the heyday of salmon canning in Anacortes. Note: See the video below of some of the colorful cans in downtown Anacortes.Salmon Canning HistorySince the 1980's , the Anacortes waterfront, along Guemes Channel has sustained various fish processing operations. The famed "Cannery Row" of the Port of Anacortes.The first cannery opened in 1893 and by 1915, eleven canneries were in operation. Mos... 09/05/2013

August 2013 Real Estate Market Report-Skyline neighborhood of Anacortes WA Skyline neighborhood, Anacortes WA is a favorite choice for many home buyers, offering attractive homes in many price ranges in a convenient Anacortes west side location. Many homes have waterviews and some have absolute waterfront locations.There are currently only 23 homes for sale, priced from $181,000 to $1,135,000. These homes are selling at a normal healthy pace, if you are interested in tracking this neighborhood, you'll want to check out the Available Inventory often. Active Listings Pending SalesHomes Sold -Year to Date31 homes have sold in Skyline Neighborhood year to date, ranging from a low of $45,000 to a high of $654,900, with an average price of $291,827. Average days on the market was 94. Be The F... 08/30/2013

August 2013 Market Report - Affordable Condos and Townhouses If you are a first-time home buyer, have a limited budget, or are a renter tired of paying rent, you will be interested in checking out the Current Inventory of affordable condos for sale in Anacortes WA. You will find attractive, well-priced condos and townhouses in a variety of styles, sizes and locations under $300,000.   Condos for Sale There are currently 16 affordable condos for sale in Anacortes WA, ranging in price from a low of $56,000 to a high of $274,900. Note: The lower priced condos are mostly Boat slip condos.   Most of the condo dwellings are priced between $200,000 to $300,000 and are in very short supply in this price range.   Condos Sold Sales of these condos have been very competitive thus far in 2013.   Ye... 08/28/2013

August 2013 Market Report - Four + Bedroom homes If you are looking for a big home, one that can accommodate a large family, a home office or craft room, or if you just need more space for guests, you will be interested in checking out the Available Inventory of four bedroom or larger homes for sale in Anacortes WAHomes for SaleThere are currently 44 four+bedroom homes for sale in Anacortes WA, ranging in price from a low of $132,000 to a high of $3,577,000 for luxury homes. This provides Buyers with a wide range of choice in size, location, style and amenities. Most of these homes are priced between $200,000 to $800,000. Homes SoldDepending on the price range of the home sales of these homes have been strong thus far in 2013. There have been 41 sales of four+ bedroom homes, ranging in ... 08/27/2013

August 2013 Market Report - Three Bedroom homes  Home buyers searching for more room to accommodate a growing family or those just needing some additional space for their lifestyle needs will want to take a look at the Current Inventory of three +  bedroom homes for sale in Anacortes WA.   Homes for Sale There are currently 115 three bedroom homes for sale in Anacortes WA, ranging in price from a low of $145,000 to a high of $2,850,000, providing a good range of choice in size, location, style and amenities.     Most of these are priced between $200,000 to $500,000.   Homes Sold Depending on the price range of the home sales of these homes have been strong thus far in 2013.   There have been 144 sales of three bedroom homes, ranging in price from a low of $100,000 to a high of $1929,000... 08/25/2013

August 2013 Market Report - Two Bedroom homes  First-time home buyers, empty-nesters, small families or those looking for a more manageable property for a vacation getaway will want to check out the Current Inventory of two + bedroom homes in Anacortes WA.   Homes for Sale There are currently 25 two bedroom homes for sale in Anacortes WA, ranging in price from a low of $81,000 to a high of $598,000, providing a good range of choice in size, location, style and amenities. Most of these are priced between $200,000 to $500,000.   Homes Sold Depending on the price range of the home sales of these homes have been strong thus far in 2013 . There have been 30 sales of two bedroom homes, ranging in price from a low of $45,000 to a high of $1,090,000, with a median price of $231,000, and an aver... 08/22/2013

The 5th Annual event showcases our amazing variety of working boats and their crews.  Avast me hearties! Steer your vessel to the Port of Anacortes 5th Annual Anacortes Workboat Races and Pirate Faire at Historic Pier 1 on the Guemes Channel in downtown Anacortes Come and join us for our 5th annual race event.Featuring those captains and crews who make their living on the water. Sea Chanties, Pirate Contests for all ages, a Chowder Challenge, and Cannons galore! There's fun for the whole family  with a multitude of events at Historic Pier 1, 100 Commercial Avenue. Activities include workboat races in a variety of classes, merchants, model boats, steam engine demonstrations, a classic car show, live music, chowder eating challenge, food, grog, and pirates galore. Parade of Boats Chowder ... 08/20/2013

 Anacortes Homes for Sale -Market Report July 2013 Anacortes is the quintessential "small town America", a place with great schools, 4th of July parades, low crime, community theater and friendly neighbors. Anacortes is conveniently located about 90 minutes from two major metropolitan areas- Seattle WA and Vancouver, BC. It is also the ferry departure point for the San Juan Islands and the international ferry to BC, Canada.There are approximately 6000 homes with a population close to 16,000. Anacortes has a variety of housing options from one-level condominiums to luxury waterfront homes. Anacortes is served by the Anacortes School District and is a short drive to the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.Once you've visited our friendly town you won't want to leave.Check out our Anacortes H... 08/16/2013

 Anacortes Mural Project started in 1984 by local artist Bill Mitchell. Mitchell began the work in 1984 and thus began an amazing project that has placed 150 murals on buildings in downtown Anacortes. Bill aims to paint about 6 new murals a year so stay tuned. Mitchell brings people of the past back to life in his nearly-life-sized depictions - taken from vintage photos of everyday people of Anacortes. The murals are based on vintage photographs depicting life in Anacortes over the last century. They include an eclectic mix of local characters … bartenders, musicians, shopkeepers, and one of the artist himself. I Hope you enjoy these wonderful murals. Some of them are painted on the sides of the buildings and others are painted on wood backing and then attached to the buildings. Mural #... 08/06/2013

Anacortes Housing- Market Trends January to June 2013We are in the middle of the "Selling" season here in Anacortes/Fidalgo Island.  So I thought I would put together some data on what has been happening in the housing market for the first 6 months of 2013  Number of Sales Vs Number of Homes on the MarketThis chart show us that number of homes on the market(inventory) down slightly due to more sales. Sales have increased over the past couple of months and look very healthy indeed.What does this mean to Sellers? Sales a up for the last 2 months which bodes well for Sellers. However, many homes have been lingering on the market for a long time. Therefore, to be one of the "sales" you still need to price and market your homes competitively.What does this mean to Buyers? Home prices are up ... 08/06/2013

 Anacortes Mural Project started in 1984 by local artist Bill Mitchell. Mitchell began the work in 1984 and thus began an amazing project that has placed 150 murals on buildings in downtown Anacortes. Bill aims to paint about 6 new murals a year so stay tuned. Mitchell brings people of the past back to life in his nearly-life-sized depictions - taken from vintage photos of everyday people of Anacortes. The murals are based on vintage photographs depicting life in Anacortes over the last century. They include an eclectic mix of local characters … bartenders, musicians, shopkeepers, and one of the artist himself. I Hope you enjoy these wonderful murals. Some of them are painted on the sides of the buildings and others are painted on wood backing and then attached to the buildings.  These ... 08/04/2013

The Annual Arts Festival is one of the most popular events held each year in AnacortesThe Anacortes Arts and Crafts Festival got its start in 1962 as the brain-child of Dr. Jack Papritz and a group of dedicated community arts patrons. With the support of the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce, and $300 in seed money, the first festival in July of 1962 was billed as "the longest art display in the world." In the 50 years since that simple beginning, the Festival has grown into one of the largest and most respected Festivals in the northwest.If you have never attended the Anacortes Arts Festival, this year should be the one for you. Residents and visitors come here each year to enjoy the Art, the town and the various activities in the Festival. Tempted to take a peek at Homes for Sale in Anaco... 07/30/2013

The Annual Community Garage sale in Anacortes. Held every year in July this event is known locally as "Shipwreck Day". The History of the Name "Shipwreck Day": 34 years ago our commercial fishermen sold their used gear as yard art on Commercial street. From that humble beginning “Shipwreck” has evolved into massive community garage sale including flea and antique vendors.Where is it Held: vendor booths numbering in the hundreds will line Commecial Ave from 10th Ave to 4th Ave and some of the side streets in downtown Anacortes. When does it Start: The official times are 8am till 4pm. However, as you know the early bird catches the bargains so set your alarm and be ready with plenty of cash. Who Comes to this Event: Shipwreck Day is the ideal destination for garage sale fanatics, or even ... 07/17/2013

There are Many ways you can Kill Weeds in your garden. We have found the following method the most efficient with minimum effort from us and organic to boot ! Yes, it is our Friendly Neighborhood Deer. There is a family of Deer that often camp out in our front yard. They love the shade and the few munchies we have available for their afternoon snack.  Here is one of our "regulars" in our front yard happily munching away on some weeds that have got out of control. So instead of spending hours in the garden pulling those pesky weeds we grab a cup of coffee or some beverage and watch them do the job for us.   07/17/2013

The Annual "Bark in the Park" Dog Festival Anacortes, WA.Bark in the Park is an annual doggie get-together for both owners and pets in Anacortes. All proceeds from the Dog Festival benefit the Anacortes Dog Park. This is one of the premier events in Anacortes and a great way to bring together dog lovers everywhere.    On this lovely sunny day we took our dog "Buster" (a "tweeny" Dachshund)) to join in the fun and mingle with lots of other dog lovers. We saw a wide variety of dogs from Mastiffs to the smallest Chihuahua. What a hoot!Photo- Larry and Buster in a hug! We are proud parents.   Some of the contest and demonstrations were amazing and in the video below you see highlights of some of these events. Kids and grown-ups alike enjoyed the day.   Owners and dogs were invited to arrive... 07/16/2013

 Anacortes Mural Project started in 1984 by local artist Bill Mitchell. Mitchell began the work in 1984 and thus began an amazing project that has placed 125 murals on buildings in downtown Anacortes. Bill aims to do about 6 new murals a year so stay tuned. Mitchell brings people of the past back to life in his nearly-life-sized depictions - taken from vintage photos of everyday people of Anacortes. The murals are based on vintage photographs depicting life in Anacortes over the last century. They include an eclectic mix of local characters … bartenders, musicians, shopkeepers, and one of the artist himself. I Hope you enjoy these wonderful murals. Some of them are painted on the sides of the buildings and others are painted on wood backing and then attached to the buildings.   Mural #5... 07/14/2013

These "Westside" condos complexes are located just 10 minutes from downtown Anacortes on the westside of Fidalgo Island. Anacortes "Westside" condos currently for sale Sunset Cove- Located on the north edge of Fidalgo Island, boasts two condo complexes.The GardensThese single story units were built in the 2007 and feature approximately 2500 sq ft floorplans with 2-3 bedrooms and 2 to 2.25 bathrooms. Each unit has an open floorplan with large Master Suites. Tucked away on the north/west side of Anacortes these units are close to the Marina, Washington Park and beaches.  Parking- each unit has a private 2 car garagePrice ranges-Currently selling in the low $300's to the high $300'sHOA- approx. $150 mth for The Gardens and $200 year for Sunset Cove. These fees cover- maintenance of the gro... 07/11/2013

Last week we had the privilege of touring this wonderful Tall Ship and learning about her history as well as her Centennial adventures!  In 1913, John Borden II of Chicago, founder of the Yellow Cab Company, took possession of the luxury schooner Adventuress.On her maiden voyage, Adventuress sailed down the east coast, through the Straits of Magellan and up to arctic waters.Read about the history of this Tall Ship and the many adventures she has had in the last 100 years. And NOW!"Imagine stepping aboard a tall ship for the first time, your 12-year old grandchild alongside, embarking upon a 6-day journey through the San Juan Islands. Not really knowing what to expect, you meet the friendly crew, stow your gear below decks, and sign up for a bunk.Before you know it, you are helping to se... 06/26/2013

Portalis is located on the North side of Fidalgo Island. Close to the Anacortes Ferry terminal, approximately 2.5 miles from downtown Anacortes with commanding views of Guemes Channel, and the San Juan Islands.  Waterview homes in Anacortes are always in limited supply. Portalis offers a variety of plans with affordable price points depending on the view and amenities that suit you. You can choose from single family (detached) homes, luxury townhomes, or you can build to suit on one of the remaining lots. Price points vary depending on how much view you want, size, and the number of upgrades. When completed, Portalis will include a mix of only 33 Single Family homes and 18 townhomes. Single Family detached HomesThirty-three single family homes have wonderful views of Rosario Strait, Gue... 06/26/2013