The Bellingham Real Estate Podcast Paul Balzotti

As the popularity of Airbnb and vacation rentals has surged over the past decade, purchasing a second home has become increasingly feasible for many. In this episode of our Real Estate Podcast, we delve into the intricacies of managing Airbnb properties with Ian Krause, a seasoned Realtor who brings valuable experience from overseeing numerous private Airbnb accommodations.
Ian provides valuable insights into the dynamics of Airbnb management and offers practical advice for prospective buyers seeking properties with high return potential in Bellingham and the broader Whatcom & Skagit County markets.
Highlights of the episode include:
Ian's firsthand experience managing Airbnb properties.Exploring various management services available for vacation rentals.Tips for scouting investment-worthy Airbnb properties in Bellingham and Whatcom County.Factors to consider, such as property size, in maximizing rental returns.A market update on furnished rentals.Insights into the impact of new ADU laws on Airbnb rental investments in Washington state.For more information or to connect with Ian, reach out to him at iankrause@johnlscott.com.

Bellingham, a thriving city nestled in the heart of Washington state, has been experiencing rapid growth in recent years. In this enlightening episode, Real Estate Broker Kerri Zender sits down with Paul Balzotti to reminisce about her upbringing in Bellingham and reflect on the city's remarkable evolution over time. Together, they delve into the expansion of Bellingham's city limits, highlighting the emergence of vibrant new neighborhoods such as Barkley, Baker, Cordata, and King Mountain.
Key topics covered in this engaging conversation include:
Kerri's personal experiences growing up in the dynamic city of Bellingham, Washington.The rich culture of outdoor activities that characterizes life in Bellingham.An exploration of the city's burgeoning population growth and its impact on the local real estate landscape.Insightful discussions on the neighborhoods that have been annexed into Bellingham's city limits, offering listeners a glimpse into the city's expanding footprint.A closer look at the concept of in-fill development and the rising popularity of ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) in Bellingham.For those eager to learn more or connect with Kerri, she can be reached at KerriZender@johnlscott.com. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the past, present, and future of Bellingham's dynamic real estate market.

Many homeowners have delayed a move-up purchase due to rising interest rates in 2023. In 2024, with rates projected to decline and the higher-end market still soft, this may be a good opportunity to consider a move-up purchase. Kate Fadden is a top-producing broker at JLS Bellingham, and she speaks with Paul Balzotti about the process of move-up buying and some creative ways to make it happen.

00:50 What is move-up buying and what does that look like.

04:18 Snoop Dogg almost buying in Bellingham.

5:55 Real Estate stats that benefit a move-up purchase.

08:25 Timing the market and interest rates.

11:00 The costs of waiting. 

14:44 Realtor cliches about it always being a good time to buy.

20:20 Consolidating debt when doing a move-up purchase.

You can reach Kate at katefadden@johnlscott.com.

Paul Balzotti and Vanessa Treadway look back at the 2023 Real Estate market and discuss the JLS forecast for 2024 for both Bellingham and the Whatcom County.

1:00 Vanessa shares her experiences working with buyers in 2023. 

2:45 The median price ranges pick up at the start of the year.

5:25 Vanessa covering appreciation over the last 3-5 years.

7:00 How interest rates will affect the market in 2024.

11:00 When is the bottom for home values.

13:00 Final predictions for JLS 2024 housing market. 

Any questions, please reach out to Vanessa at vanessatreadway@johnlscott.com

At the start of 2024, Washington state will require Real Estate licensees to have service agreements signed between buyers and buyers agents, outlining the agency relationship and the way the buyer's agent will get paid. Sarah Aguirre is one of JLS's top buyers agents, assisting 28 clients in 2023, 17 of them being buyers. Sarah goes over her process and some ways she tries to bring value to her clients.

00:15  Buyer agency agreements need to be signed in 2024.
01:15  Sarah Aguirres sales in 2023.
02:35  Sarah updating her process helping buyers in a more challenging market. 
06:30  Creating financing options and lender partnerships.
08:50  Negotiation tactics to help buyers win in today's market. 
11:10  Using data when presenting an offer. 
16:44  Working with Spanish-speaking clients.

You can reach Sarah at sarahaguirre@johnlscott.com

When selling your home, the details matter. And there is a range of what price your home can sell for. The factors that a Realtor can help you with to help you get top dollar include, preparation, presentation, promotion and strategic pricing. William Elmer sits down with Paul Balzotti to talk about the programs and formula behind what has helped Will sell all of his listings in 2023 for well above asking price.

1:45 Market Ready Plus. The JLS  0% credit 

6:40: Being Market Ready Day One. It is all in the preparation.

12:00: Marketing to the backlog of buyers.


You can reach Wìĺĺiam at Williamelmer@johnlscott.com.