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New Agent Spotlight: Ashley Stroup
When buying or selling a home, having an agent who’s an enthusiastic, knowledgeable problem-solver can be so beneficial. Meet Windermere Bainbridge Island Broker Ashley Stroup. Ashley recently joined our team, and we’re grateful for her vibrant energy and expertise. Read our Q&A below to learn about her background, community involvement, and more.
What drew you to real estate?
I have had so many people over the years tell me I should be in real estate with my love for homes, design, and sales. I think I was intimidated, honestly! But in 2019, while interviewing agents to sell my own personal home, I was recruited to work alongside a top agent in a design/home renovation role for up-and-coming listings at the firm. I found it to be the perfect mix, utilizing my design eye, connections with contractors, and love of homes. From there, I started interacting more with clients and realized a natural connection that felt very rewarding, and I haven’t looked back!
What unique professional skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
Having worked in commercial design and renovation, I have a unique ability to help clients bring their property to market with just the right updates for the biggest return on their investment. Additionally, I enjoy helping my buying clients envision possibilities for their dreams for a property they may be considering.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
Creativity, compassion, and determination. Every real estate transaction is one-of-a-kind, and being quick on your toes and thinking creatively when problems arise is essential for getting your client’s deal across the finish line. Secondly, I often feel like a therapist – I think we all do! Buying and selling a family home is often the biggest emotional transaction of people’s lives, and compassion is key. Lastly, determination. Rarely does any client get to the finish line without setbacks and unforeseen obstacles along the way. I try to limit as much stress as possible for my clients, and that requires determination on my part to show up and utilize my experience to meet deadlines.
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I started my real estate career while living on top of Queen Anne Hill in Seattle. I specialized in that area until the summer of 2023. After my family moved to Bainbridge Island, I began working in both areas. I am now focusing more on Bainbridge Island properties. I’m proud to live in such a welcoming community, and there is so much to do and enjoy here every day.
How long have you lived here, and what brought you here?
My family and I moved to Bainbridge in the wake of the pandemic, in 2020. I think, like many families during that time, we sought an area that provided more access to nature, high-functioning schools for our children looking for academic challenges and special needs resources, and a thriving community. Bainbridge ticks ALL those boxes, plus others! I have no regrets and truly feel we are giving our children a magical place to call home.
How are you involved in the community?
I’m involved in book clubs, running clubs, and school volunteering. Also, I serve as the social coordinator for my neighborhood community beach.
What made you decide to work with Windermere Real Estate?
Windermere has a great reputation for full-service representation. This aligns so well with my client-focused philosophy. I am honored to be part of the Windermere office on Bainbridge Island, and I truly love working and living in this thriving community!
To learn more about Ashley Stroup, check out her website, and follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
Avoid These Costly Home-Selling Mistakes
When selling your home, the process goes more smoothly if you prepare in advance. There are many aspects of successfully selling a home and maximizing profit. While selling always involves various fees and costs, there’s a difference between standard costs and costly mistakes. By planning and considering all your options, you can avoid these costly home-selling mistakes.
Not accounting for home-selling costs
From the beginning, you should be thinking about various home-selling costs. Even if you’re not worried about them, it’s better not to be caught off guard. Before you put your home on the market, there are costs for the pre-sale inspection and the listing agent’s fees. Also, you want to make sure your home looks its best to get the best offer. This includes making any necessary repairs, possibly completing any renovations that have a high return on investment, and investing in professional staging.
When your home sells, costs include paying off the mortgage and any escrow fees. And of course, there are always taxes. This includes property taxes from the sale and there may be additional taxes depending on your situation, such as the capital gains tax. Once the sale is final, then it’s time to move. To ensure your belongings arrive at their next destination safely, it’s best to hire professional movers. If you’re not able to move directly to your new place, there may be storage costs to factor in as well.
Not making your house shine
If you really want to make sure your home sells for the highest possible price, there are some important steps you need to take. While these steps do cost money, they are worth it. The first one is preparing your home for the market. Start with a pre-listing home inspection. If the inspection reveals a list of repairs, meet with your real estate agent to decide which repairs are necessary and which have the highest return on investment. By making the right repairs, your home will be more attractive to buyers.
Also, hiring a professional stager will enhance your home’s appeal. First impressions are everything. Professional stagers know what personal items to pack away, how to highlight a home’s best features, and what photographs well and will capture buyers’ attention online. All these things work together to help potential buyers see themselves living there, which typically leads to better offers and faster sales. Yes, there are upfront costs to consider, but the investment will be worth it.
Also, if the pre-listing inspection does uncover major repairs such as issues with the foundation or the roof, the Windermere Ready Program can help cover upfront costs. This is a loan program offered by Windermere to help sellers cover much-needed repairs up to $100,000. When your home is sold, the loan is paid off in one lump sum. For more information, contact a highly-rated Bainbridge Island real estate agent.
Not working with a local real estate agent
When it comes to selling a home, it’s hard to beat working with a local real estate agent. Good local Realtors know your local market, are experts at negotiating, and have access to all the best listings. If you try the “for sale by owner” approach, you have to figure out all these things on your own and have the burden of added liability. By working with a local real estate expert, you have access to excellent local vendors, top-tier marketing resources, and experienced, data-driven guidance. They will help you avoid costly home-selling mistakes. As your greatest advocate and resource, your local agent can provide advice and insights. Local real estate agents know what houses are selling for in your neighborhood and will ensure you connect with the right buyers to get the best price possible.
Not getting a CMA
If you work with a local real estate agent, they can provide a free Comparative Market Analysis or CMA. This is a detailed report that estimates the value of your home by comparing your property to others in the area. A CMA starts with a walk-through of your home to give the real estate agent a sense of its size, condition, and best features. This information is compared to similar homes that have sold in your area. To get the full picture, the agent also looks at local market trends, the location of the home, nearby neighborhood amenities, and any other relevant factors.
Together, this information helps determine the listing price. It’s finding a balance between being competitive and getting the best offer. The CMA helps ensure your home is priced to sell. Plus, all this information helps a real estate agent determine what repairs will bring the highest return.
Not accepting the best offer
Sellers often think the best offer is the highest bid, but that’s not always true. Before accepting an offer, it’s important to discuss all the terms with your real estate agent. Cash offers or buyers pre-approved by a lender are more likely to close on time. If you’re on a tight timeline, an offer with these terms could be best for your circumstances. Also, take time to review any contingencies and how those could potentially affect the outcome. If the buyer requires a quick move-in date, you have to consider whether you can accommodate an even tighter timeline. Look at all the pros and cons of an offer to ensure it’s best for you and works for your situation.
By avoiding these home-selling mistakes, you will have the best chance of getting a great offer. And by following the above advice, you will also minimize moving-related stress.
6 Tips for Buying a House Out of State
There are a variety of reasons for buying a house out of state. Perhaps you have a new job opportunity or want to be closer to family. Maybe you’re looking for a summer home or for a rental property to diversify your investment portfolio. Following these six tips will make the process of buying property from afar smoother and more manageable.
1. Know the costs associated with buying a house in Washington state
First and foremost, take into account the cost of living and housing prices in different areas. For example, in Washington homebuyers have the opportunity to live in the city of Seattle, in picturesque nearby suburbs, or in more rural areas. Wherever you decide to buy a home, the cost of living varies widely. Check out Bankrate’s cost of living calculator to get a sense of housing costs compared to where you currently reside.
Consider that the property tax rates vary by state. Also, the closing costs, real estate laws, and even the climate can impact your home-buying decision. Check out this article for more specifics about purchasing a home in Washington state.
2. Consider how the house will be used
Ask yourself: Will this home be a primary residence, a rental home, a vacation home, or a vacation rental? Whatever the case may be, create a list of specific wants and needs to communicate with your real estate agent. A single-family house with a fenced-in yard may be ideal for a growing family while a downtown waterfront condo might be the perfect vacation home.
If the new home will be rented out, consider the pros and cons of managing the property personally or finding a property management company to handle marketing, screening tenants, home repairs, and more.
3. Use a local real estate agent
Using a local buyer’s agent has numerous benefits when buying a house out of state. They know the local market and will utilize the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) to identify homes that fit your budget and criteria. If you’re unable to tour a home in person, they can show it to you through video chat while pointing out details. When it comes to negotiations, they will advocate on your behalf. Additionally, many of our agents are relocation specialists who have years of experience helping manage and prepare for their clients’ long-distance moves. They will explain the pros and cons of different neighborhoods, and help you get connected to the community. A great agent will also be communicative and readily available throughout the process.
When buying a house out of state, streamlining the process in any way possible can really reduce stress. A local agent can do that, connecting you with their vast network including excellent home inspectors, local lenders, repair workers, and more.
4. Review the home-buying process and timeline
Buying a home out of state may create timing challenges. Check out our Guide to Buying a Home for a complete picture of the home-buying process. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the pre-approval process and how to make a competitive offer. It explains escrow, home inspections, closing, and more. This guide is the perfect place to start when beginning your out-of-state home-buying journey.
5. Consider contingencies
It is important to understand any contingencies on an offer that may be in place when buying a home out of state. As a homebuyer, you may also wish to include a home sale contingent offer if you are trying to sell your current home before moving. There are two different types of home sale contingencies that may be beneficial when buying a house out of state. However, home sale contingencies have pros and cons, which should be discussed with your real estate agent.
6. Utilize current technologies and local contacts
Technology provides a perfect conduit for buying a house out of state. Potential buyers can use online search tools and get connected with local realtors. Also, many listings feature 3-D tours. You can easily conduct video conferences with local agents, lenders, and home inspectors. Furthermore, financial and lending institutions have secure portals available for signing paperwork.
If you have personal contacts in the area where you are considering a home purchase, reach out to them. Ask them questions to get a sense of the area. You may even ask them to tour a home you like in order to have another set of eyes on the property. While it takes a little more planning, buying a house out of state is very manageable thanks to today’s technology.
Selling and Buying a Home at the Same Time – FAQs
Selling a home while buying another home at the same time can be challenging. If you are thinking about doing this, you probably have questions. So, we’ve gathered together a list of frequently asked questions to help you through the decision-making process.
What are the pros and cons of selling a home with a contingent offer?
Cons: If you accept a contingent offer, there’s no guarantee that the buyer’s home will sell quickly. As a result, if you need to sell your home within a certain time frame, it’s essential to specify a timeline in the contingency agreement. This gives you an out if their selling process drags on.
Pros: If your house has been on the market for a while, a contingent offer might be a better option than no offer. But what if another offer comes in while the contingent offer is in place? This can happen. To prepare for this type of scenario, be sure to include a “bump” clause. As part of the contract, include language that specifies a time frame for the first buyer to decide whether they still want to pursue the contract. This requires the buyer to respond. If the buyer does not respond, you can legally back out of the contract and pursue the new offer.
What are the pros and cons of buying a home with a contingent offer?
Cons: A contingent offer doesn’t mean as much in a popular market such as Bainbridge Island. Multiple buyers with multiple offers can be common. As a result, it might be harder to get a seller to agree to a contingency offer. Also, you may be competing with buyers who don’t need to sell their home before buying, making a contingent offer impractical. If you really want to purchase a particular property, you may have to make an offer outright.
Pros: If you are able to place a home sale contingent offer, this allows you to smoothly transition between houses. You won’t have to worry about renting a temporary place or placing your belongings in storage. Once your home is sold, another one will be ready and waiting for you.
If you have more questions about contingency offers, we’ve compiled more detailed information for you.
Do I buy or sell first?
This is a great question because there are pros and cons to both. Even if you intend to do both simultaneously, you will most likely have to begin one before the other.
Selling first: Starting the selling process first sets you up for greater success in buying a new home. If you sell your home, you’ll have more cash available, which increases your buying power and your down payment. It’s also nice to pay off your first mortgage through the sale before taking on a new one. However, the downside to selling first is that you don’t have a new place to move into. This is a common scenario when selling and buying a home since the timing rarely aligns perfectly. If you do find yourself in this position, one option is to negotiate a rent-back agreement with the buyer. This will allow you to rent the house temporarily and give you more time to find your new home.
Buying first: Buying a new home before selling makes moving a lot simpler. There’s no need to find temporary housing. Instead, you can pack up and move everything to the new place. Making the decision to buy first really comes down to your finances. Having two mortgages means taking on more debt, which can impact your loan terms for the new house. Also, if you haven’t sold your home first, it might be challenging to arrange enough money for a down payment. Without a down payment of twenty percent, obtaining private mortgage insurance (PMI) may be necessary. Lastly, the decision to buy first is based on the assumption that your current house will sell relatively quickly. This is a safe assumption in the Bainbridge Island market, but not a guarantee.
Ultimately, the decision to sell or buy first depends on your situation and what works best for you.
Do I really need to stage my house?
The simple answer is yes. While staging your home may seem like a daunting task, it’s worth the effort and investment. Overall, staged homes typically sell faster and for more money – a double win! Also, a big part of the selling process takes place online. This is where most buyers will see your home first. A staged home better lends itself to eye-catching photos and great first impressions. When potential buyers see your home online, you want them to be able to imagine themselves living there. Staging is the best way to do this and helps interested buyers take the next step. Even partially staging your home can be incredibly beneficial.
Is now a good time to buy and sell?
Based on what we’re seeing in the Bainbridge Island market, we think the answer is yes. The average sale price here in Q1 was $1.6M – and that’s the slow season. Bainbridge’s housing market is heating up and a great real estate agent can help you achieve your goals. Here at Windermere Bainbridge Island, our local agents are highly rated, know our market, and can effectively negotiate on your behalf. Contact us today, and we’ll help you get started.
New Agent Spotlight: Ben Hoover
When buying or selling a home, you want a local real estate agent who knows the area and offers a wealth of experience as your advocate and guide. Meet one of our newer Windermere Bainbridge agents: Ben Hoover. We’re delighted to feature him in our Q&A. We know his interesting professional background and genuine desire to help others achieve their real estate goals makes him an excellent addition to our office.
What drew you to real estate?
My interest in real estate started at a young age with a subscription to Architectural Digest and a job cleaning construction sites as a kid. For years, my primary interests have included the building process, interior and landscape design, and finding and securing unique opportunities – all with the goal to create loving, well-cared-for spaces. I joined the Windermere Team to leverage my experience and interests to help others meet their real estate goals and needs.
What unique professional experiences or skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
I started in commercial real estate in 1995. That specific experience combined with professional construction and corporate management experiences developed my negotiation skills, analytical abilities to solve problems and grit to develop win-win solutions.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
Listening skills, patience, tenacity, integrity, and a strong work ethic.
Which areas do you serve and what do you love about them?
I focus primarily on Bainbridge Island and the North Kitsap Peninsula. The nature and pace of this region offer a beautiful lifestyle for all ages.
Photos by Ben Hoover.
How are you involved in the community?
Following a lengthy residential remodel, I am excited to become more active in the community. I look forward to being of assistance to the Bainbridge Island Parks & Trails Foundation and Bainbridge Island Museum of Art.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
When we moved to Bainbridge in 2020, we had a very positive experience working with Bill Hunt and Susan Grosten on our home purchase. When I decided to revisit my interest in real estate, I already knew I wanted to join the Windermere Bainbridge Island team.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I feel so fortunate to live on Bainbridge Island and join the community. It’s fun meeting people, serving clients, and learning from colleagues.
Photos by Ben Hoover.
We’re so glad Ben Hoover has joined us here at Windermere Bainbridge Island. You can learn more about him on his website.
Why It’s Worth it to Get a Pre-Listing Inspection
A pre-listing inspection provides extensive information about your property and can help you strategically prepare before putting your home on the market. This will boost your confidence as a seller by offering the following benefits.
Eliminate Surprises
Doing a pre-listing inspection will allow you to address any issues that might scare buyers. Surprises can frighten potential buyers, and the last thing you want is to kill a contract. While it’s still a seller’s market here on Bainbridge Island, you always want to put your best foot forward. Identify and address any issues in advance so that you’re not surprised about any needed repairs and buyers are fully aware of the home’s condition from the start.
Increase Efficiency
Pre-listing inspections make the selling process more efficient. With the ability to review a pre-listing inspection up front, buyers better understand a home’s condition right away. This can streamline the offer process by eliminating the need for the buyer to have their own inspection done. So, you can potentially receive more offers in a shorter period of time.
Build Buyer Confidence
Buyers will have greater confidence that you’re a transparent seller by presenting a pre-listing inspection up front. It shows you have nothing to hide and you’re honest about what work has been done and what may still need to be done. As you prepare to sell your home, you can refer to this helpful home seller’s checklist. You may also want to consider home renovations that return the most at resale. Remember, every step you take to prepare ensures you’ll have an even more enticing listing, which could lead to a higher sale price.
If you have any questions about doing a pre-listing inspection, please contact a Windermere Bainbridge Island real estate agent.
New Agent Spotlight: Kelsie Thurrott
A third-generation islander, Kelsie Thurrott has a background in counseling, marketing, and project management. Her varied skillset, local expertise, and excellent interpersonal skills make her a great advocate for buyers and sellers. We’re so glad she has joined us here at Windermere Bainbridge Island. Learn about her interesting background, community involvement, and more in our Q&A.
What drew you to real estate?
I’ve always loved looking at homes. My mom used to take me around to open houses on the weekends for fun and whenever a neighbor would list their home or I’d visit a new friend’s house we’d snoop on the county website to learn as much as we could about the place. Shortly after getting married, my husband and I went through a very rocky real estate transaction. It was through that experience that I learned how important it is to not only have a good agent represent you but one with integrity and your best interest at heart. I’ve always been drawn to professions centered around helping people and after having lived through such a trying transaction, I couldn’t shake the desire to learn the ropes and do it better, advocating for my clients so their memories of buying or selling their home are positive and rewarding.
What unique professional experiences or skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a realtor?
My education and career in counseling gave me an incredible foundation in reading people, empathizing, listening, and advocacy. These are skills I bring with me in all aspects of life, and I find them invaluable in Real Estate. My ability to understand my client’s needs through each step of the transaction is imperative, and my insight into personality types gives me that extra edge when it comes to negotiations.
After switching careers to be closer to home, I took on a role in sales and marketing at the Bainbridge Athletic Club. I’d worked there in some capacity since the age of 16. I’ve always had a knack for marketing but initially, I thought I’d be awful in sales. I never felt comfortable pushing a sale. Whenever someone was on the fence, I’d send them away to think about it. I always encouraged them to check out the competition before making a decision. I wanted to be sure they were making the right decision for them to stick with a healthy workout schedule and lifestyle change. It was in this position that I was surprised to witness my natural compassion and connection to people serving as a key aspect in my success.
When we decided to start our family, I began working with my husband to grow our small island business, which specializes in metal fabrication. I have worn several hats, but my primary role in project management familiarized me with many of the ins and outs of home construction and renovation. I’ve formed valuable relationships with many of the builders on the Island and I’ve developed a meaningful understanding of the importance of collaboration.
My husband and I also went through an extensive remodel ourselves, so I have first-hand experience in the process and familiarity with permitting on Bainbridge.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
I am a people person. When someone asks me about my hobbies I answer, “work and friends.” I have always held a hefty dose of empathy and have been referred to as a naturally kindhearted person. But if you have ever played pickleball with me you’ll see my fiercely competitive nature come out. I don’t like to lose, and I don’t like to be wrong, so I make sure I’m confident and fully prepared before stepping up to the table. I think all of these personality traits are important in this profession. But above all, I think the most important personality trait in Real Estate is integrity. You need to have the knowledge, tools, and the wherewithal to complete a transaction and negotiate the details, but integrity sets apart a good agent, from a great agent. My client’s needs are first and foremost. Their best interest stays top of mind and drives every decision.
Which areas do you serve and what do you love about them?
I serve Bainbridge Island and the greater Kitsap Peninsula. I love most things about the PNW. The fresh air, incredible hiking trails, exploring the Sound to name a few. I’ve lived here my whole life so I may be a bit biased and perhaps not well-traveled enough, but I truly believe in the magic of this place. The dark winters and yes, the rain can seem like a lot come February, but I think it’s that stretch of the season that makes the summers around here something truly special. I’m a cancer so for me, getting out on the water is the highlight of living here. We take our 1968 Hatteras to explore the peninsula and the San Juan Islands as frequently as we can. When we are home, we love playing on the beach or taking advantage of the numerous parks and trails our island has. Growing up in such a tight-knit community felt disadvantageous as a kid. But looking back, I am in awe at how lucky I am and I can’t imagine living anywhere else (although snow-birding in retirement isn’t completely off the table.) I’m fortunate to be surrounded by family, which makes staying an easy decision. I’m an islander through and through. I loved going to high school and having several of the same teachers that taught my mother. Now I get to walk the same trails with my children that I trotted down as a child. Both my husband and I grew up here and never left. I’m third generation and he is 5th so our roots run deep.
How are you involved in the community?
Owning a small business on Bainbridge Island gives us the opportunity to stay active in the business community. We do what we can to support local organizations and community projects. Last fall we had a special opportunity to partner with Urbanist Collective. Together, with a grant through the Kitsap Community Foundation, we organized a Unity in Community youth mural project. We donated our large gate as the canvas for the project. Urbanist Collective worked with a group of local youth to design an image to promote inclusiveness and love within our community. From there, a large group came together and participated in painting sections of the mural. Urbanist Collective taught parents and children of all ages about the art of spray paint and the technique of painting with that medium. It was a powerful weekend and a perfect representation of everything I love about our community.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
I knew I wanted to work for a brokerage that promotes delivering value to its clients and the community as a whole. One that aligns with my morals and prizes “relationships, not transactions”. Windermere does just that. Rooted in service, Windermere cares about the people it serves and the community they live in. I’m proud that my work will benefit the Windermere Foundation. I feel lucky to be a part of an office that inspires.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Outside of business, I have a wonderful husband I’ve been with since high school, two rambunctious boys that we absolutely adore, and a large pup named Charlie. In my off time, I love boating, biking, gardening, and visiting with friends and family.
We are so happy to have Kelsie on our Windermere Bainbridge team. You can learn more about her through her website and her Facebook page.
New Agent Spotlight: Chris Miller
Although Managing Broker Chris Miller has extensive real estate experience, he’s new to our Windermere office but not to real estate on the island. So, we wanted to highlight him in our Q&A series. We’re delighted to have him. His expertise, fascinating background, and positivity are greatly appreciated.
What drew you to real estate?
I was drawn to real estate by the opportunity it gave me to run my own business and the freedom it gave me to give back to and be active in my community. It also afforded me the time to be the springboard diving coach on Bainbridge Island for almost 30 years.
What unique professional experiences or skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a realtor?
My communication and organizational skills have been honed through successful production of events in a previous music career and concurrent athletic coaching career. When presented with a challenge, I relish researching for true and accurate information from original, reliable, and proven sources.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
I believe this profession calls for the sincere personality traits of honesty, reliability, attention to the details, and of course, good etiquette.
Which areas do you serve and what do you love about the area?
I primarily serve the Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap areas. These are the places I know and understand. I love that Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap are the “midway” between Metropolitan Seattle and the wilderness areas of the Olympic Peninsula. It makes for a more relaxed pace of life and people seem more “grounded”. I love Puget Sound and the mountains.
How long have you lived here and what brought you here?
I moved here with nothing but my backpack in 1988 after hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. I stumbled on Bainbridge Island while taking a side track visit to the Hoh Rainforest. Back then Bainbridge Island reminded me very much of my hometown in the suburbs of NY near the New Jersey border, so I settled here under the notion of, “Go west young man, and seek thy fortune”.
How are you involved in the community?
Community involvement has been a big part of my life even as a child growing up. I have been on the Bainbridge Island Grand Old 4th of July production committee since 1992, been the springboard diving coach on the island from 1991 to 2019, I am a Chamber of Commerce Board of Director for a third time, been on the Kitsap County Association of Realtors board for two terms in the past, been a past president of the retired BI Lions Club, created the first electronic recycling event on Bainbridge Island in 2007 with my Business Partner Bill Barrow, and through him, I’ve been an avid supporter of the BI Kiwanis Club and their scholarship programs over the years.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
I decided to take my business practice and license to Windermere Real Estate Bainbridge Island because it reminds me very much of the very first office I worked at here on Bainbridge Island. Deschamps Realty is long gone now but taught me the importance of being a community-minded business. Being led by a Managing Broker who is integrated into the community and encourages the office to respect and support the community is a great catalyst. The supportive culture of hardworking brokers and staff with the highest standards of professional practices and ethical principles is paramount. It is a joy to come to work every morning at the crack of dawn and be surrounded by colleagues and staff who exercise mutual support. Go Team!
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
You may recognize me from my real estate partnership with Bill Barrow over the past 20+ years. He afforded me many opportunities and I loved working with him. We worked well together. He was not only my partner but one of my best friends. Bill passed away on August 7, 2021, and I miss him very much.
We’re very fortunate to have Chris on our team. If you’d like to learn more about him, check out his very interesting bio; you’d be hard-pressed to find one that’s more unique.
4 Tips for Buying a House in Our Strong Seller’s Market
Many buyers are scrambling to secure their dream homes, especially since we have such a strong seller’s market here on Bainbridge Island. Multiple offer situations have become very common. Additionally, our agents know of many situations in which buyers are waiving inspections or are outbid by price or by all-cash offers. Not to worry, our local experts are here to help. Here are four tips and insights.
1. Make Sure You Can View Homes Right Away
“Be ready to view homes ASAP so you don’t miss out on getting a showing appointment,” says Broker Diane Sugden.
Many homes are only on the market for a matter of days. They come and go quickly, so there is little time to debate. Make sure you are prepared to adjust your schedule as needed before you start looking at listings. Make a list of all of the neighborhoods/areas you are open to, as well as any must-haves and deal-breakers for you. This will save you time and help you view the right homes quickly with a focused approach.
2. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Local Experts
“Work with local experts! From your lender to your realtor to your closing escrow team. Professional history and work ethic are critical in crafting a strong offer where the seller can take comfort knowing their home will close on time, with no surprises,” says Susan Grosten, Managing Broker.
Undoubtedly, a real estate agent who knows the local market, the community, and the right vendors will be a tremendous help. They also have an established track record and are skilled negotiators. It’s not uncommon for experienced local agents to have worked with the agent representing the seller, which can be to your advantage. From lenders to home inspectors, home repair crews to community resources, local agents’ connections can help you in many ways.
3. Get Pre-Approved Locally
“Get yourself pre-approved with a LOCAL lender. This will serve you well as the listing broker will want to assure their sellers that the buyer can close. Most agents prefer to work with a local lender who has a proven track record and is easily accessible,” advises Broker Diane Sugden.
Getting pre-approved with a local lender will help the sellers feel great about your offer. Taking this step can make a difference, especially since they’ll want to close as quickly as possible.
4. Do Your Due Diligence
Make sure to really analyze different aspects of a property that you’re looking to buy. It shows you’re really ready to buy and can help distinguish you in a multiple offer situation. “In one instance, the sellers chose my clients because of the due diligence they did before placing their offer on the house. This pre-inspection gave my clients information on the condition and functionality of the home. Additionally, it gave the sellers confidence that my clients were serious, did their due diligence, and presented a solid offer,” says Broker Jenn Herrmann. Sellers do not want to waste any time. Anything you can do to prove that you won’t pull your offer at the last minute will give them peace of mind.
To learn more about our current market, watch our video below with stats from this year’s first quarter. For more in-depth information, read our First Quarter Market Review.
New Agent Spotlight: Ashley Mathews
We’re excited to highlight our new Broker, Ashley Mathews. Highly involved in our community, Ashley is passionate about helping people. She has a background in marketing and a range of industry experiences. Read on to find out more!
What unique professional skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a realtor?
I started working at my mom’s travel agency at around 12 years old, which taught me organization in a transactional industry. After stints as a realtor in the fast-paced New York City market, I moved on to the marketing side of the business. I am a marketer at heart and bring the combination of my marketing expertise to my transactional knowledge of real estate, which benefits my clients.
What drew you to real estate?
Real estate has been the backdrop to my life for as long as I can remember. I love the ever-changing landscape, market conditions, and being able to impact someone’s life in such a monumental way.
How long have you lived here and what brought you here?
I have lived on Bainbridge Island for 12 years. I moved here from New York City after meeting a man from Bainbridge Island. He is now my husband of ten years.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
I think it’s important to be a good listener, have the ability to roll with the punches, have a good sense of humor, and possess dedication and integrity.
What area do you serve and what do you love about it?
I serve Bainbridge Island and have a great deal of first-hand knowledge of Bainbridge’s unique neighborhoods, having lived in downtown Winslow, Fletcher Bay, the Sand Spit, and Pleasant Beach. I love its beauty and the fact that it can be whatever one desires. Sometimes I enjoy its quiet serenity. Other times, I want to enjoy one of our award-winning restaurants. There is something here for everyone.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
My passion for service has always made me a fan of the Windermere Foundation and its work. The Windermere Brokers on Bainbridge Island have such a great reputation and I wanted to be on their team. Blue is also my favorite color.
How are you involved in the community?
I serve as a board member for the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, and I serve as Planning Commissioner for the City of Bainbridge Island. Additionally, I serve as the Chair of the Board Development Committee for Treehouse For Kids and sit on its Board of Directors Executive Committee. For over a decade, I’ve been involved in Bainbridge Island’s vibrant equestrian community and am a member of the Bainbridge Island Saddle Club. I love the arts and have performed with the Bainbridge Chorale and on the Bainbridge Performing Arts stage in “Chicago” and “Cats”. I am also a lifetime member of the NAACP.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I have a 19-year-old daughter who inspires me every day as she navigates our new normal as a college freshman, as well as a beautiful and not so smart Doberman named Grace and a beautiful and very smart horse named Nektonia. I love to meet new Islanders so if you see me come say hi. Human connection is so important these days.
We’re so glad that Ashley Mathews has joined us. We know her local expertise and her integrity make her an excellent choice for buyers and sellers. You can connect with her on Facebook or through her website.
