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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Smoked Salmon

1 lb. Brown Sugar

1 c. Table Salt

1 tsp. Garlic Powder

1 Tbsp. Black Pepper

1/4 tsp. Cloves


Mix ingredients together dry. Fillet salmon and cut in 1.5 inch strips crosswise. Place a layer of fish in a bowl skin side down; spinkle with a layer of dry mix. Repeat, stacking tightly and ending with a layer of dry mix. Cover with a plate and weight top. Fish forms its own brine. Let soak for 8 to 12 hours depending on size of fish. Rinse, pat dry and smoke as desired.


Option: Remove fish from smoker, brush with honey and place in a 180 degree oven for 30 minutes.


Recipe courtesy of Rocky Point Resort, Petersburg, Alaska.


Think You Can’t Afford a Home? Think Again.

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Many hopeful buyers hit a wall when they hear the words “down payment.” It can feel like the biggest obstacle between you and your dream home — but what if everything you’ve heard about it isn’t quite true? From the idea that you need a huge lump sum to the belief that you’re on your own, common myths about down payments keep too many people from making the leap into homeownership. The good news? You probably need less than you think — and there’s help out there. Let’s clear up the confusion and get the facts straight.

The Worst Times to Mow Your Lawn—And When You Should Be Doing It Instead

Mowing the lawn might seem like a simple task, but the time of day you choose to do it can have a major impact on your yard’s health. While many homeowners fire up the mower first thing in the morning or during a sunny afternoon, turf experts warn these may actually be the worst times to cut your grass. Poor timing can leave your lawn stressed, patchy, and even vulnerable to disease. So, when should you mow to keep your grass looking green and lush? In this article, lawn care professionals break down the two worst times to mow, explain why they’re damaging, and reveal the ideal window for trimming your turf without harming it.

What’s Next for Home Prices? Here’s What the Experts Say

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With so much conflicting information in the news, it’s natural to wonder where home prices are headed next. The good news? Experts agree that, overall, home prices are still expected to rise across the country this year—just not as quickly as before. That said, trends will vary depending on your local market. Some areas may see stronger growth, while others may level off or shift slightly. If you're planning to buy or sell, staying informed about your specific area is key. A trusted real estate agent can help you make sense of it all and guide your next steps with confidence. Click here to learn more.

Student Housing Sees Strong Preleasing Amid Slowing Rent Growth

The student housing sector continues to show strong leasing momentum heading into the 2025–2026 academic year, according to Yardi Matrix’s July 2025 National Student Housing Report. Preleasing activity has surpassed 85 percent across Yardi’s top 200 universities, with 50 markets already over the 90 percent mark. Despite growing concerns over reduced federal education funding, student loan changes, and a potential dip in international enrollment, demand for student housing remains high. Average rents rose 1.3 percent year-over-year, although the pace of growth has slowed slightly. With thousands of beds still under construction or in planning stages, the sector is adapting quickly to shifting economic and enrollment trends—offering a snapshot of resilience and recalibration in a changing higher education landscape. Click here to learn more.

The Clockwise Cure for Clutter: Try the Mount Vernon Method

Feeling overwhelmed by clutter and unsure where to start? The Mount Vernon Method might be the stress-free solution you’ve been searching for. Inspired by the meticulous cleaning style used at George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, this simple yet structured approach helps cut through the chaos by focusing on one section of a room at a time. Starting in one corner and moving clockwise, the method minimizes decision fatigue, boosts momentum, and keeps distractions at bay. Experts say it’s especially helpful for anyone feeling anxious, overstimulated, or stuck in a cleaning rut. Whether you're tackling a bedroom, kitchen, or even a packed attic, the Mount Vernon Method can turn an overwhelming task into a satisfying, confidence-building reset.

Thank You

for choosing local, and voting

Cowlitz County Title

"Silver Winner Title/Escrow

Company in

Southwest Washington".

"August is the slow, gentle month that stretches out the longest across the span of a year. It yawns and lingers on with the light in its palms."

-- Victoria Erickson

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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