Young America's love affair with homebuying has hit a low point. The percentage of homes that were sold to first-time homebuyers dropped to 33% this year, the lowest percentage in almost three decades, according to the National Association of Realtors. Typically, first-time homebuyers comprise about 40% of all purchases. This is despite the fact that mortgage rates are hovering near record lows and home prices are still off about 15% compared to the housing boom peak, accordi

In the wake of recently adopted changes to tree replacement regulations, Snohomish County has seen a large spike in new single-family permit applications. The week of Oct. 20 saw a near tripling of recent permit activity, which easily eclipsed any other week’s numbers in 2014. For the year, a total of 1,341 applications have crossed the counter while 15 new long-plat applications have been submitted. For more information, please contact North Snohomish County Manager Mike Pat