Steve Quaife,

VP/County Manager

Teresa Spain,

Escrow Officer

Escrow Assistant
Title Officer
Title Officer

Leah Stanley,

Bookkeeper/Recorder

Pam McCormick,

Administrative Coordinator

melindagottfryd
Policy Typist
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Apple Bake

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Filling

8-10 med apples (cut into slices)

1/2 stick of butter (1/4 cup)

1 cup brown sugar


Sprinkle some cinnamon

Cook in a pot until apples are cooked down and soft.

Put filling into a 8x10 pan


Topping

1 cup butter (soft) (2 sticks)

1 1/2 cups brown sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 cup oats

3/4 cup flour


Mix together then drop and spread over apples. Doesn't have to cover every inch. Bake 350 degrees for 30-35 min until top is golden brown.


Enjoy apple bake alone, with whipped cream or ice cream.



Recipe by Ruby.


Why Today’s Housing Market Isn’t 2008 All Over Again

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If you’ve seen headlines saying new home inventory is at its highest level since 2008, you might be wondering if history is about to repeat itself. After all, the crash left a lasting mark on anyone who lived through it. But while the numbers may sound alarming, they don’t tell the whole story. Much of the online chatter is designed to grab attention—not provide context. When you dig into the data, it’s clear today’s housing market looks very different from 2008. Understanding the bigger picture can help you see why higher inventory isn’t a cause for panic. Click here to learn more.

Positioning for Growth: Strategies to Strengthen Mortgage Operations Before the Next Cycle

The mortgage industry has always been cyclical, and today’s market signals another turning point. With slower home price growth and early signs of cooling, lenders and servicers face a choice: wait for conditions to improve or take proactive steps to strengthen operations. The most successful organizations use transitional periods like this to refine workflows, optimize technology, and prepare for future demand. ICE Mortgage Technology’s July 2025 Mortgage Monitor underscores the importance of readiness, showing both price declines in major markets and opportunities for growth. By implementing practical strategies now, lenders and servicers can position themselves to thrive in the next housing cycle—leaner, smarter, and more competitive than ever.

From Distraction to Purpose: How to Regain Focus and Drive Productivity

Distraction has become one of the biggest obstacles to productivity in today’s workplace. Emails, messages, meetings, and interruptions steal focus, leaving business owners and employees alike feeling scattered and overwhelmed. Research shows workers lose up to 25% of their week to distractions—time that could be spent driving growth and creating impact. But the real issue isn’t that we’ve lost the ability to focus; it’s that we’ve lost sight of what matters most. By connecting daily tasks to a deeper purpose, leaders can reclaim focus, inspire their teams, and transform productivity into meaningful progress. Click here to learn more.

How to Grow Hummingbird Mint in Pots for Colorful, Wildlife-Friendly Displays

If you’re looking for a vibrant, fragrant plant that thrives in pots while attracting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, hummingbird mint (Agastache spp.) is a top choice. Known for its tall spires of colorful blooms and distinctive anise-like scent, this hardy perennial brings beauty and pollinator activity to patios, balconies, and gardens alike. While it naturally prefers open borders, hummingbird mint grows successfully in containers with the right care—especially good drainage and plenty of sunshine. With minimal effort, you can enjoy long-lasting flowers all summer and beyond. Here’s expert advice on growing and caring for hummingbird mint in pots.

Thank You

for choosing local, and voting

Cowlitz County Title

"Silver Winner Title/Escrow

Company in

Southwest Washington".

"September is dressing herself in showy dahlias and splendid marigolds and starry zinnias."

-- Olive Wendell Holmes

Do you have a question? Or is there something you'd like to see in the Title Tidbits? Just email Steve at steve@cowlitztitle.com!
Cowlitz County Title
1159 14th Ave, Longview, WA 98632
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