Seattle Slugger Ichiro Puts Issaquah, WA Home on Market

According the Wall Street Journal, Seattle's Super Star right fielder, Ichiro Sazuki has put his Issaqua, Washington home on the market for $1.75 Million. The home was extensively remodeled in 2003 and boosts sweeping views of Lake Sammamish, the Cascades and Mt Baker.

Ichiro, or "一郎" to Manga lovers, has moved into new digs-also on Lake Sammamish. And while local agent Rick Minor decided against using the Japanese sluggers name (or symbol) to promote the listing, he did subtly eluded to the possibility . This, from the listing:

"Batter Up!..for this knock your baseball socks off luxury home with unobstructed views of Lake Sammamish, the Cascades and Mt Baker! This magnificent home is in a gated community with 8 custom luxury homes. A superstar remodel will leave you in AWE! Formerly listed as high as $3.2 MIL, now priced at a steal of a deal. Exotic stonework graces this one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Private patios, gardens & sports court. Step up, take a swing, hit a grand slam and make this your home base!"

The foul mouthed Ichiro has made over $75 Million since signing with the M's in 2001. Among his many baseball talents, perhaps Ichiro's most over looked skill is his ability to provide awesome quotes. The jet setting super start had this to say about upon hearing his club would be going to Cleveland instead of Chicago:

'To tell the truth, I’m not excited to go to Cleveland, but we have to,' Ichiro said through an interpreter. 'If I ever saw myself saying I’m excited going to Cleveland, I’d punch myself in the face, because I’m lying.' Ladies and gentlemen, 一郎!

You can check out additional pictures of the Ichiro's 5,000 sq home here.

Distressed Property Law Changes Realtor® Liability

Changes to the Distressed Property Law have passed both branches of the Washington State Legislature and the bill is headed to Governor Gregoire’s desk for signature. You can read the piece of legislation here. Agents are now exempt “from the definition of “distressed home consultant” when the broker or salesperson is providing services governed under the real estate brokerage laws and the services do not result in a distressed home conveyance.”

Realtors® had been unhappy when their liability increased under the original Distressed Property Law. Many Realtors were refusing to list short sales because of the risk leaving potential clients wade the murky foreclosure waters on their own. Things began to change in early 2008 as the foreclosures began to pile up like. Now thanks to the pending law change Realtors® are now exempt from the DPL. However, not all Realtors® are trained to deal with foreclosures, so make sure your Realtor has attended a certified course and knows what he or she is doing.

Check out Seattle Foreclosures here.