As a resident of Mount Vernon since 1966, I have come to know, and love, this area VERY well, and have delighted in pointing out to newcomers the many advantages of living in this beautiful rural valley, the gateway to the San Juan Islands. Prior to my real estate life, I was the owner/operator of Susan Cooper School of the Dance (ballet, tap, jazz, etc.) for 18 years and my reputation as an enthusiastic, honest, hard working individual has followed me. Two of my ex-students purchased this school in 1985 and operate it as the Skagit Valley Academy of Dance, now having owned it longer than I had!
Since becoming a REALTOR in 1989, my goal has always been to locate that "perfect home" for Buyers - and for Sellers, to customize a personal marketing plan and then implement it. Many satisfied customers will agree I live up to my motto: "You Can Depend On Me." I wholeheartedly welcome referrals from other agents, and am very conscientious in my dealings with them. Through the years I have become increasing familiar with the neighboring Snohomish and Whatcom Counties, having had many pleasant transactions there, in addition to those in Skagit County.
As the 1997 President of Skagit County Association of REALTORS, my primary focus was on promoting awareness of, and adherence to, the National Association of REALTORS' Code of Ethics. The Skagit Association merged with the North Whidbey Association some years ago to form the North Puget Sound Association of REALTORS. Serving as the Chair of both our local Professional Standards Committee and the parallel committee at Washington Association of REALTORS has been of utmost importance to me. In addition to serving as Treasurer of Washington Association of REALTORS(R), I have continued to serve as a State Director and on several state-level committees most years since 1990. This Association is now known simply as Washington REALTORS(R.)
A consistent Multi-Million Dollar producer since 1989, I have also been the recipient of numerous Local & State REALTOR awards, covering community service, achievement and distinguished service.
I am a strong believer in education, which improves my ability to assist and better direct my clients and customers. The Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Graduate REALTOR Institute (GRI) and Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designations have been achieved through many additional hours of continuing education. In attempting to stay up-to-date with industry advancements, I also acquired the Prudential e-Certified designation, indicating I am above average internet-savvy. In addition to the above designations, I have been a member of the Commercial Brokers Association, and also enjoy the challenge of listing and selling commercial properties.
The coveted CRS designation is held by only 4% of REALTORS(R) nationwide. I am proud to not only have achieved this designation, but I also am currently serving on the Board of Directors of the Washington State CRS Chapter as a designated Area Representative for Skagit, Island and San Juan Counties.
Community involvement has included several organizations - notably the Mount Vernon YMCA, Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce, Skagit Valley Tulip Festival and Skagit Cultural Center Association. 18 years on the Skagit Valley College FoundationBoard of Governors was the longest duration, with 2-terms as Secretary and one as President! I was since honored, and humbled, to receive the status of EMERITUS to the SVC Foundation!
During more recent years, my community involvement was as a member of the Skagit Performing Arts Council Board of Directors. As a partner, SPAC played a major role in the creation of McIntyre Hall Performing Arts & Conference Center, an $18,000,000 performing arts facility which opened in November 2004, and is located on the Mount Vernon Skagit Valley College campus. I have also served as the Vice-President of the Northwest Ballet TheatreBoard. A professional level of performance is being exhibited by these young dancers - the end result of careful nurturing and training by an extraordinary staff at this Bellingham WA based associated academy!
In addition, I was invited to join the Board of Directors of the Friendship House, for which I served as President in 2007, and am still on the Board as Immediate Past-President. Friendship House has two homes (one for men, one for women and children) in Mount Vernon plus a transitional home in neighboring Burlington. This is a 20+-year project to benefit, and provide direction, shelter and meals, to that portion of the homeless population which has proven to be worthy of assistance. The need is dire, as the bulk of the operating costs are covered by private donations. To me, this is the perfect fit for a REALTOR(R), especially one who wants to make a difference!
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