Sales are up ... no news there. But for all of you who write asking about condos, take note: condo prices are beginning to rise. There are fewer than 5,400 condos on the market, and I think I've had 6,000 inquiries about condos! (Okay, it's substantially less ... but LVA viewers ask about condos A LOT.)

I'm recovering from dental surgery, but still out showing houses today to out-of-state buyers. One couple is looking for their retirement home seven years early. They want to take advantage of the low prices, and will use the home as a second home or rental until they can retire to warm, sunny Las Vegas. The other is escaping Seattle's cold, wet climate.

My Seattle client is looking for a home with a pool, and asked a very typical question: Does a pool add to the resale value of a home? The answer is "Yes, somewhat." More importantly, a pool adds to the desireability, and when the weather begins to turn warm here in April, pools are in big demand throughout August.

A pool can add anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000 to the value; about $16,000 is typical. Most people are looking in a specific price range, and the pool is just a bonus. The home with a pool will likely sell faster.

Many clients say they want a pool, but a house with a yard large enough to accommodate a pool will suffice. If you want a pool, try to find a house with a pool. That pool that may add $16,000 resale value to your home will cost you around $35,000 if you put it in after buying the house.

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