The Bellingham Real Estate Podcast

EP:0055 - Living In Blaine: Affordability, Growth, And Life On The Border with Joni Wenger

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 15:00:00 -0800

We explore what life in Blaine, Washington really feels like, from walkable schools and parks to a border-enabled lifestyle and weekends on the water. We weigh the trade-offs of fewer big-box amenities against rapid housing growth, a revitalized downtown, and strong community events.

• small-town feel with walkable schools, parks and waterfront
• affordability compared with Bellingham for similar home quality
• cross-border perks with Nexus access to White Rock and Surrey
• current impact of tariffs on local businesses and spending
• downtown street upgrades improving sidewalks, lighting and landscaping
• annual events including Wings Over Water, July 4th, harbor music week, pirate festival and Oyster Fest
• distinctions between Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo within one school system
• where new construction is happening: The Ridge, Mott’s Hill, A Vista, Lincoln Mews
• boating lifestyle with two marinas and fast access to the San Juan and Gulf Islands
• how added rooftops may attract better groceries, restaurants and services

If you have questions about Blaine, Birch Bay or Semiahmoo, reach out to Joni

EP: 0054 - 2025 Market Recap and 2026 Forecast for Bellingham & Whatcom County with Justin Nelson

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0800

Spring came in hot, fall cooled it down, and somehow Whatcom County finished the year right where it started. We unpack how a classic seasonal surge ran into a wall of rising inventory and sticky mortgage rates, leaving both prices and sales flat year over year. Justin Nelson joins Paul Balzati to break down the quarter-by-quarter story: multiple offers in core neighborhoods, longer days on market across the board, and a four-month supply that changed the pace without crashing values.

We get specific about buyer and seller behavior. Buyers finally had time to compare homes, revisit favorites, and negotiate on terms. Sellers had to recalibrate: a sharp first weekend is still possible for well-priced listings, but patience and realistic pricing became the norm. We also split the market by price point. The high end is carrying a heavy load of inventory and longer absorption times, while low-to-mid price bands continue to see steady demand, especially in in-town neighborhoods where convenience and condition drive action.

Then we look ahead. If mortgage rates drift toward six percent, expect more transactions in 2026 as buying power recovers and fence-sitters reenter the hunt. We explore how Bellingham’s comprehensive plan—ADU expansion, potential lot splits, and broader infill—could unlock supply and attract local investment. We also discuss the potential impact of a 50-year mortgage on affordability, sales volume, and pricing dynamics, especially for entry-level and move-up buyers. Our take: modest spring appreciation followed by a plateau, more sales overall, and a high-end segment that may lag until inventory thins.

Want the playbook for your next move—price strategy, timing, financing, and neighborhood selection? Tune in, subscribe for more local market insight, and leave a review with your 2026 prediction so we can revisit it next year.

EP: 0053 - Whatcom County Hidden Gems with Sarah Colin

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0700

We trade our favorite Whatcom County hidden gems, then stress-test each one: which picks truly fly under the radar and which are simply great. From ferry-access hikes and flat lake walks to secret bakery windows, underrated pizza, and summer community nights, we map plans you can do this week.

• Baker Preserve on Lummi Island as a short ferry adventure with summit views
• AM/PM Beach in Sudden Valley as a destination beach with amenities
• Lake Padden off‑leash access via Galbraith lot for quieter dog miles
• Hertz Trail on South Lake Whatcom as a flat, swimmable lakeside walk
• Beach Store Cafe on Lummi for pizza, locals, and live music
• Breakfast at Avenue Bread James Street as a specific, worthwhile order
• Elizabeth Station’s sleeper pizza and pairing with Structures Brewing
• Iron Rooster in Fairhaven as a weekends-only pastry window that sells out
• Cobb & Cork in Bow and Chuckanut Manor as scenic, upscale date-night options
• Barkley Village events—Play Days, farmers market, Tuesday Tunes—as community glue
• Beach Cat Brewing’s Birch Bay and downtown spaces for family-friendly hangs
• Semiahmoo area as a staycation set with beach walks, spa, and Packers

We’d love your hidden gems—drop them in the comments so we can explore them next.

You can also reach Sarah at sarahcolin@johnlscott.com

EP: 0052 - Where to Live for World-Class Bellingham Mountain Biking with Jessa Loudon

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0700

We share how Bellingham Washington's trail network shapes where we live, ride, and invest, from beginner-friendly bunny lines to double-black descents and the neighborhoods that put them minutes away. We also map rural options, community events, and the easements and volunteers that keep 3,000 acres open.

• Galbraith mountains size, easements, and multiuse access
• Trail progression from green to pro, safety, and etiquette
• Geneva, Whatcom Falls, Silver Beach price bands and access
• Puget and Samish neighborhoods for quick south and west entries
• Lookout and Stuart mountain for expansion and acreage
• Chuckanut and Blanchard mountani for coastal tech and views
• How trail proximity influences home values and demand
• WMBC membership, races, camps, and Trackside scene
• Northwest Tune-Up festival highlights and demos

If you’ve got more questions about mountain biking or real estate, you can reach out to Jessa Loudon at jessal@johnlscott.com

EP: 0051 - The Big Small Town: Finding Your Community in Bellingham Washington with William Elmer

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 16:00:00 -0700

William Elmer shares how finding community transformed Bellingham from just a place to live into a true home, and how realtors can help newcomers build meaningful connections in a new city.

• Moving to a new place is challenging – it took time for William and his family to feel at home in Bellingham
• Community connections started through Facebook groups and unexpectedly through a local comic book store
• Bellingham offers the perfect balance as a "big small town" – large enough for anonymity when desired, small enough to regularly encounter friends
• Realtors can serve as community connectors, helping newcomers find neighborhoods and activities aligned with their interests
• The office environment at John L Scott creates its own supportive community network
• Bellingham offers diverse communities for various interests – outdoor activities, comic books, board games, sports leagues, and more
• Local nonprofits provide opportunities for deeper community engagement through volunteer work and events
• JLS annual events like poker nights, baseball games, and golf tournaments support local charities while building connections
• Understanding clients' interests helps realtors guide them to appropriate neighborhoods that complement their lifestyle needs

If you're new to Bellingham or looking to expand your community connections, reach out to the John L. Scott team for guidance beyond just real estate transactions.

You can reach William Elmer directly at williamelmer@johnlscott.com

EP: 0050 - Where Real Estate Meets the Sea: Bellingham's Marine Community with Barbara Thevenaz

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0700

We explore Bellingham's vibrant boating scene and waterfront real estate opportunities with Barbara, who balances her realtor career with working as a checkout skipper at San Juan Sailing.

• Barbara shares her sailing journey from the University of Wisconsin to California racing and now the Pacific Northwest
• The San Juan Islands offer protected waters with milder weather conditions compared to Southern California's open ocean sailing
• Popular boating routes include state parks, Roche Harbor, Friday Harbor, and Rosario on Orcas Island
• The charter season runs April through early November, though experienced boaters can navigate year-round
• Local boating events include May 1st opening day celebrations, the historic Pitch Regatta, and Thursday night racing
• Entry points to boating include Community Boating Center for small boats and San Juan Sailing for ASA certification
• Bellingham and Blaine have Port of Bellingham marinas, while Sandy Point, Birch Bay Village, and Semiahmoo offer docks from residential properties
• Birch Bay Village provides extra security for boat owners who travel seasonally
• Marine wildlife encounters include harbor seals, dolphins, porpoises, and occasional orca sightings
• Lake Whatcom offers sailing opportunities through Lakewood facility for students and certain organizations

You can reach Barbara at barbarathevenaz@johnlscott.com

EP: 0049 - Bellingham Trails: Navigating Bellingham's 40+ Miles of Connected Pathways with Irena Lambrou

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 12:00:00 -0700

Discover Bellingham's extensive trail systems and how they connect the city's diverse neighborhoods. We explore both well-known paths and hidden gems that make Bellingham a paradise for walkers, joggers, and cyclists of all experience levels.

• Trail systems throughout Bellingham allow users to loop around the entire city with minimal road travel
• Chuckanut and southern areas feature Fragrance Lake trails and the Interurban connecting to Fairhaven
• Waterfront trails link Boulevard Park through downtown with stunning bay views
• Eastern neighborhoods (Barkley, Roosevelt, Alabama Hill) offer the most accessible trail connections
• Whatcom Falls Park provides family-friendly recreation with waterfalls, swimming holes and playgrounds
• Galbraith Mountain features 20+ miles of trails for mountain bikers of all skill levels
• Lake Padden's loop and surrounding trails connect back to southern neighborhoods
• Most trails are dog-friendly but check regulations as some areas have restrictions
• Many trails feature well-maintained gravel surfaces with good tree canopy for year-round use
• Apps like All Trails and Trail Forks help newcomers navigate the extensive network

Know before you go - check which trails allow dogs, mountain bikes or horses as designations vary throughout the system.

You can reach Irena at irenalambrou@johnlscott.com

EP: 0048 - From Renting to Owning: Gen Z's Path Home Ownership with Irena Kolbert

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 19:00:00 -0800

Generational trends highlight the pressing challenges facing Gen Z in homeownership, with only 3-4% of all homeowners represented by this Generation. John L. Scott Real Estate broker Irena Kolbert shares her story of financial discipline, sacrifices made during early career years, and essential tips such as consulting lenders and maintaining the right mindset to achieve homeownership dreams.
• Defining Gen Z and discussing homeownership statistics
• Challenges faced by Gen Z in the housing market
• Personal sacrifices made for saving money
• Importance of mindset in achieving financial goals
• Need for open conversations with lenders and real estate agents
• Strategies for future home purchases and leveraging opportunities

You can reach Irena at irenakolbert@johnlscott.com.

EP: 0047 - Debunking Real Estate Myths with Leela Nelson-Hollcroft

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0800

Podcast Summary: Debunking 3 Common Real Estate Myths with Leela Nelson-Hollcroft

In this episode, Realtor Leela Nelson-Hollcroft tackles three widespread myths in real estate, sharing her expertise and personal experiences to provide valuable insights for buyers and sellers.

00:30 – Myth #1: You need 20% down to buy a home.

Leela recounts her inspiring story of purchasing a home with zero down as a single mom in her 20s. This experience motivated her to become a Realtor and help others achieve homeownership. She breaks down financing options such as FHA, VA, and USDA loans, which often require as little as 5% or even no money down.

07:25 – Myth #2: Spring is the best time to sell your home.

Leela and Paul explore the common belief that spring is the ideal season for selling. While spring often brings higher intensity, multiple offers, and beautiful landscaping, Leela emphasizes that supply and demand in Bellingham and Whatcom County remain steady year-round. Ultimately, the best time to sell is when it works best for your personal situation.

12:15 – Myth #3: Pricing your home slightly above market value is the best strategy.

Leela debunks the idea that listing a home above market value creates better negotiation opportunities. Research shows that pricing competitively results in faster sales and higher final prices, whereas overpricing often leads to homes selling for less. However, Leela notes that pricing strategies can vary depending on market conditions.

📧 Contact Leela
If you’d like to connect with Leela Nelson-Hollcroft, reach her at leelah@johnlscott.com.

EP: 0046 - 2024 in review and 2025 whatcom county housing forecast with Katty Baldwin

Sat, 11 Jan 2025 15:00:00 -0800

In 2024, the housing market in Whatcom County experienced a year that continued to challenge both buyers and sellers. Home sales remained slower than historical averages, and affordability continued to be a pressing concern for many. Despite these obstacles, and even with the added complexity of it being an election year, Whatcom County saw a modest 1% increase in home sales, while home values rose by 5%.

Katty Baldwin, a top producer with JLS Bellingham who successfully helped 20 buyers find their homes in 2024, joins Paul Balzotti on the podcast to discuss how buyers navigated this dynamic market. They explore how opportunities still existed despite the challenges, and what trends could continue into 2025.

Podcast Highlights:

00:50 Market statistics for 2024, including home sale trends and affordability challenges.
03:15 Katty Baldwin shares insights on how she helped her clients successfully purchase homes in 2024.
06:00 A discussion on whether securing a better deal or obtaining a better interest rate is more important in the current market.
07:10 A closer look at the current housing supply in Whatcom County and its impact on buyers.
07:50 Strategies for writing contingent offers in today’s market and how to make them more appealing.
09:25 Advice for homeowners looking to make a move, particularly those who own plants (likely referring to people with large, hard-to-move possessions).
15:00 Insights into VA loans and navigating the challenges of interest rates for veterans.

If you have questions about the market or want to discuss buying or selling a home, reach out to Katty Baldwin at kattybaldwin@johnlscott.com or 530-515-3971.

EP: 0045 - Helping Boomers "Right Size" with Marsha Brown

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 14:00:00 -0800

In this episode of the Bellingham Real Estate Podcast, Marsha Brown shares her expertise and personal experiences on the challenging but rewarding process of downsizing—or "right-sizing." Whether it’s moving to a smaller home, a low-maintenance property, or a retirement community, Marsha offers practical advice for making the transition smoother.

Episode Highlights:

1:50 – Marsha shares her journey of selling her acreage property and downsizing.
3:25 – Exploring the role of Detached Additional Dwelling Units (DADUs) in the downsizing process.
6:15 – The first two steps to begin your downsizing journey.
9:45 – A breakdown of housing options: single-family homes, condominiums, and assisted living facilities.
14:00 – Identifying the small things that matter most during the move.
16:10 – Insights into bridge loans and creative strategies for buying and selling.
21:00 – How adult children can support their parents during the transition.

If you’re considering downsizing or helping a loved one through the process, this episode is packed with valuable tips. For more information, reach out to Marsha at marshabrown@johnlscott.com.

EP: 0044 - The Pros and Cons of Living in Bellingham with Dani Colito

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 14:00:00 -0800

Considering a move to Bellingham Washington? Dani Colito has been sharing insights into Bellingham on her Youtube channel, and joins The Bellingham Real Estate Podcast to further discuss the pros and cons of living in Bellingham.

The main pros highlighted include the areas natural beauty, abundant outdoor recreation, and relatively mild winters, while the cons included the higher cost of living, rainy weather, and lack of major entertainment options. The discussion provides insights into what attracts people to the Bellingham area as well as some of the challenges of living here.

You can reach Dani at danicolito@johnlscott.com. You can also find a link to the pros and cons video referenced in this podcast here.

EP: 0043 - Will Potts on VA loans & benefits in Whatcom, Island & Skagit County

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0800

In honor of Veterans Day, navy veteran and John L. Scott Realtor Will Potts joins the podcast.
Will shares his background in the navy, and some stories from multiple trips to Iraq. Will also shares some of the many benefits of VA loans along with resources available to active military and veterans in Whatcom & Skagit county and throughout the Pacific Northwest.

You can reach Will at willpotts@johnlscott.com

EP: 0042 - All Things Agricultural Land. Farming & Developing in Whatcom County

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0700

Agricultural land is a major part of the economy in the rural areas of Whatcom County including Lynden, Everson and Ferndale Washington. Whatcom County is also the top producer of red rasberries in the country.
Harm Lidhran joins the podcast to talk all things farming, as well as developing agricultural land.

1:20 Harm shares his story developing agricultural land for profit.
13:00 Buying land for berry farming.
14:00 Blueberries verse Rasberries.
16:20 Finding berry farm listings for sale.
19:00 Financing berry farms.
22:00 How water adjudication is affecting farm land.

For more, you can reach Harm at harml@johnlscott.com or at 360-318-6311

EP: 0041 - NAR Settlement & Real Estate Changes in the PNW w/Nathan Butcher.

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 16:00:00 -0700

The NAR (National Association of Realtor) settlement was enacted into law, and Realtors are now working with new rules regarding fees and disclosures. What is not in the news is that in the PNW, Realtors are members of the Northwest MLS, a private MLS that had already adapted to many of the settlement requirements over the last few years. In this episode, Nathan Butcher and Paul Balzotti break down the changes and what they mean to the consumer and the industry in the Pacific Northwest.

1:00 Breaking down the 3 major changes to Real Estate related to the NAR settlement.
7:40 One major change that has not changed in the Pacific Northwest.
8:43 Benefits of the changes.
14:00 Services and communication around a buyer service agreement.
23:30 Frequently asked questions around the news, and how Nathan and Paul are responding.

Nathan Butcher can be reached at nathanbutcher@johnlscott.com or 360-389-3002.

EP: 0040 - Whatcom County Industrial Parks & Storage Condos. Bellingham Real Podcast w/Alicia Jansen Pennington

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0700

Whatcom County has many storage units and industrial parks throughout Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden and Blaine Washington. Storage units can be an incredibly low maintenance cash flow investment that is sometimes overlooked by Real Estate investors.
Alicia Jansen Penningon shares with Paul Balzotti some of the options for both investing and developing storage units.

1:00 About Alicia and her family's background in construction and development.
2:30 Different types of individual storage condos in Whatcom County.
4:45 Financing options for storage units.
6:35 Financing options for developing.
7:20 New technology in storage projects.
9:10 Benefits of investing in industrial or storage units instead of apartments.
11:30 The I-5 industrial center in Ferndale available for sale.

For more, please contact Alicia at aliciap@johnlscott.com

EP: 0039 - Whatcom County Golf & Resort Communities Sudden Valley & Semiahmoo w/ Jess Davis Perrino

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Whatcom County has two true golf course resort communities. Sudden Valley is located just east of the city limits of Bellingham on the shores of Lake Whatcom. And Semiahmoo, which is on the northwestern tip of the the state and the U.S. Just 12 minutes from the border and 30 minutes from Bellingham. Realtor Jess Davis Perrino discusses with Paul Balzotti the scoop on both communities and key differences. Jess is both an avid golfer and resident of Sudden Valley.

For more, contact Jess Davis Perrino at jessdavisperrino@johnlscott.com at 360-739-8728

EP: 0038 - All things new construction with Justin Nelson

Sun, 19 May 2024 17:00:00 -0700

Embark on the journey of turning dreams into reality with new construction homes in this insightful podcast episode. Join Paul Balzotti in conversation with seasoned broker Justin Nelson as they delve into the intricacies of building or purchasing a new home. From the allure of custom-built homes to the convenience of pre-sales, they explore the various avenues available to homebuyers. Navigate through topics such as:

1:00 Buying land and building a custom home.
5:00 Developing the land.
7:30 Hiring a land use consultant.
13:25 Buying a pre-sale.
14:20 How a buyer representation can help you negotiate.
23:00 Getting a new home inspected.
27:00 Warranty on new construction.

For expert guidance on embarking on your new home journey or accessing pre-sales in Bellingham, Whatcom, or Skagit County, contact Justin Nelson at justinnelson@johnlscott.com.

EP: 0037 - Buying an Airbnb / Vacation Rental with Ian Krause

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0700

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.

EP: 0036 - The Growth of Bellingham with Kerri Zender

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 14:00:00 -0700

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.

EP: 0035 - Move-Up Buying with Kate Fadden

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 15:00:00 -0800

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.

EP: 0034 - 2024 Whatcom County Real Estate Forecast with Vanessa Treadway

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 12:00:00 -0800

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

EP: 0033 - The value proposition of buyer agency with Sarah Aguirre

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 11:00:00 -0800

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

EP: 0032 - Being Market Ready Day One (home selling tips) with William Elmer

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0800

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.

EP: 0031 - Whatcom County Water Adjudication with Crissy Impero

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0700

Water rights is a major concern in Whatcom County with Washington State moving forward with water adjudication for the Nooksack basin and surrounding areas. All owners & prospective buyers of vacant land or residential homes on a well or shared well, should be aware of what is upcoming.

For more questions you can reach crissyimpero@johnlscott.com

EP: 0030 - The Past, Present & Future of Real Estate with J. Lennox Scott

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0700

CEO of John L. Scott, J. Lennox Scott is the 3rd generation leader of the company. John L. Scott is a top 20 Real Estate brand in the country with over 100+ in the northwest region and over 3,000 associates.
Lennox talks about the history of John L. Scott Real Estate, what the company is working on to evolve, the future of A.I. in Real Estate, and he provides a market forecast for Whatcom County and the rest of the Pacific Northwest.

00:15 About J. Lennox Scott & John L. Scott Real Estate.
02:08 The history of John L. Scott Real Estate
05:48 Industry changes and what is next for the company and the industry in general.
08:40 How A.I. will change Real Estate
10:45 Company philosophy.
17:10 Real Estate market update & market forecast.

EP: 0029 - New ADU law in city of Bellingham with Hannah Jones

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0700

The city of Bellingham has agreed to adopt the majority of the new ADU (additional dwelling units) law EHB 1337 that was mandated from Washington state. Hannah Jones talks to Paul Balzotti about the changes the city has approved and what that means for Bellingham.

1:00 Hannah explains.
4:15 How this new law will impact the city of Bellingham.
10:00 How ADU's help with Affordable homeownership.
17:00 ADU's for extended family, and other benefits of more ADU's.

See episode 6 of the Bellingham Real Estate podcast for more on ADU's.
To reach Hannah Jones, email hannahjones@johnlscott.com

EP: 0028 - 2008 verse 2023 & Mid-Year Market Update with Dexter Andrews

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 14:00:00 -0700

At the mid-year point in 2023, Dexter Andrews and Paul Balzotti sit down to discuss the year to date statistics, as well as the small correlation (and major differences) between the 2008 Real Estate market crash, and the 2023 market slowdown.

00:30 Dexter Andrews background in Real Estate, beginning in Minnesota.
02:40 Paul Balzotti touching on 2023 mid-year market statistics.
04:00 Interest rates and how they effect home prices.
06:00 Predictions for rest of 2023.
08:18 The year 2008 verse 2009.
12:00 Stories from 2006-2012.
21:00 Talking boating with Dexter.

Dexter Andrews is a Real Estate broker with nearly 30 years in the business, and he can be reached at dexterandrews@johnlscott.com

EP: 0027 - No Home is Perfect. Helping buyers before, during and after inspection with Travis Boyd

Thu, 18 May 2023 09:00:00 -0700

When looking at a home, it's important to take a closer look at the quality and condition of a home, even before doing your home inspection. Travis Boyd is a former contractor and property manager plus offers 3 years full-time in sales. In this episode, Travis and Paul Balzotti discuss things to consider before, during, and after the home inspection when home buying.

00:30 Travis's background in construction and property management.
03:12 Consulting with a buyer before looking at homes.
04:40 First things to look for when getting to the home.
12:23 Why so many deals fall apart during the inspection.
16:14 What comes up the most during the inspection.
20:55 New construction homes have issues too.
24:15 How to work through inspection.

You can reach Travis at travisboyd@johnlscott.com

EP: 0026 - Downsizing and Condo Living with Molly Visser

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 19:00:00 -0700

Veteran Bellingham Real Estate broker Molly Visser talks about downsizing from a larger home to a smaller condo. Tips for downsizing and things to consider when buying a condo. You can reach Molly at mollyvisser@johnlscott.com

00:20 - Molly Vissers background.
01:10 - Molly's story about downsizing from a home to a condo.
5:50 - Trade-offs and lifestyle changes.
6:20 - Researching different condo HOAs.
12:10 - Tips for downsizing.
18:10 - Analyzing the location to downsize

You can reach Molly at mollyvisser@johnlscott.com

EP: 0025 - Zillow, Mexico & a 2023 market update with Blake Lester

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0800

Blake Lester talks to Paul Balzotti about his background working at Zillow, his time living out of a van in Mexico. WWU economist Hart Hodges also just provided an economic forecast for 2023 for the Whatcom Realtor association, and Blake and Paul share reports from this forecast and where the market stands early in 2023.

You can reach Blake at blakelester@johnlscott.com

00:20 Blake talks working for Zillow for 5 years before becoming a Realtor.
02:44 The Zestimate.
05:50 Blake moves to Mexico.
07:25 Hart Hodges WWU economist forecast.
12:00 Real Estate market update so far in 2023.
14:00 Market forecast.

EP: 0024 - Glacier Washington with Marty Kutschbach. The Bellingham Real Estate Podcast

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 20:00:00 -0800

Glacier Washington has been the hottest Real Estate market in Whatcom County over the last 3 years. Located 10 miles northwest of the Mount Baker summit, Glacier is a popular location for 2nd homes and Air B&B homes.
Marty has been serving the Glacier Washington market for nearly 20 years and shares insights into the different communities in Glacier.

1:00: How Marty started working in Glacier.
2:45: A-frame and chalet-style homes.
7:14: The 3 main communities in Glacier and the differences between them.
13:20: Air B&B process and options if renting your home.

Marty can be reached at martyk@johnlscott.com.

EP: 0023 - Property management insights with Irena Kolbert

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0800

Irena Kolbert worked in property management for 2 years before getting her Real Estate license to be a full-time sales broker. She covers some important things to consider when buying an investment property, and things to consider when hiring a property management company.

00:40 Irena's property management background.
02:30 Whether or not to use a property management company.
04:05 Tips for landlords not using a property management company.
07:52 Tips for hiring a property management company.
14:25 What Irena has learned that has transferred to Real Estate sales.
19:40 The strength of the rental market in Bellingham & Whatcom County.

Irena can be reached at irenakolbert@johnlscott.com

EP: 0022 - 50+ years of real estate sales & investing with Cal Leenstra

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 19:00:00 -0800

Cal Leenstra started his Real Estate career in Bellingham in the 1960's as the co-owner of Kelstrup Real Estate, which eventually became Prudential Kelstrup. He was a co-owner for 20+ years, and has continued in sales (both residential & commercial) for 50+ years!

In addition, Cal holds his CCIM, the highest designation in commercial sales, and has also been investing and developing in Whatcom County real estate for 50+ years as well.

In this podcast, Cal touches on some of that history.... how things have changed (and stayed the same) in Real Estate sales, as well some investing tips.

1:00 Cal's start in Real Estate.
7:00 Getting started in Real Estate now verse in the 60's and 70's.
10:47 Investing in Bellingham Real Estate beginning in the 1960's.
16:50 Risk vs reward when considering investing today.
23:15 What has changed in Real Estate and what has stayed the same.

You can reach Cal at calleenstra@johnlscott.com.

EP: 0021 - Working with sellers in a shifting market with Mira Gregory

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 22:00:00 -0700

Since June of 2022, the market has shifted from a frenzy sellers market in Bellingham and Whatcom County Washington, to a more balanced market. Home prices have softened and days on market has increased.
Mira Gregory has been a full-time Realtor for 5+ years, and discusses with Paul Balzotti the talking points she is having with her clients in this shifting market.

0:53 Mira's career background.
1:24 A summary of the market shift.
2:07 Setting expectations and then re-adjusting expectations with sellers during this shift.
6:09 Prepping your home for sale.
8:41 Market Ready Plus program to fix home up and pay for it out of closing.
11:33 Buying and selling in the same market and writing contingent offers.
15:05 Home buying thoughts.
17:33 Where the buyers are coming from.
19:17 How many homes are selling in the first 7 & 30 days and change in intensity of the market.

You can reach Mira Grigory at mira@johnlscott.com

EP: 0020 - Tips & Tactics for home buyers in a shifting market with Lee Rosales

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0700

The housing market has become more balanced over the last 6 months, with homes staying on the market longer, and buyers having more negotiation power. At the same time interest rates have risen, creating a pinch for home buyers trying to make a move. Lee Rosales is a rising star in the Real Estate business, working successfully throughout 2022 to help her buyers make it happen.

Paul Balzotti and Lee Rosales discuss what they are discussing with home buyers in this changing market, and what tactics are being used to make sure they get the best deal possible.

1:00 Mira's client base.
2:30 Teaming up with Mira Gregory.
3:30 Paul's market update.
5:08 How Lee is helping buyers negotiate and navigate the current market.
7:30 How the buyer process has changed as the market has shifted.
10:38 Opportunities to negotiate.
11:27 When is the right time to buy?
15:00 Lee's prediction on home values for 2023.

You can reach Lee at lee@johnlscott.com

EP: 0019 - The Power of Social Media with Sarah Aguirre

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0700

Sarah Aguirre is a rising star in our local Real Estate business, and a big factor in her success can be attributed to social media. Sarah is active on all major platforms, regularly posting Reelz & new content (including "Spilling Tea on Realty") for both her Real Estate account as well as her husband's construction company, Mountain View construction.
Paul Balzotti and Sarah talk about the different social media platforms, how it affects their Real Estate business, and tips for business owners on how to improve their social media engagement.

0:45 Fun facts about social media.
3:05 What social media accounts Sarah uses and how she uses them.
5:30 Direct messaging (DMing) instead of emails or texts.
8:05 How Realtors use social media to help sell homes.
11:14 Instagram Reelz.
13:00 Tips for Realtors & business owners on how to do a better job with their social media accounts.
16:12 Posting Stories.
18:11 Social media for business owners.

You can reach Sarah at sarahaguirre@johnlscott.com

EP: 0018 - First Time Home Buyer Tips with Oksana Martynyuk

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 12:00:00 -0700

There is a lot to know about buying your first home, and Oksana Martynyuk is a broker that has hosted First Time Buyer classes and specializes in helping first time buyers. Oksana discusses how most first-time home buyers deserve more education on the process, and more hand-holding along the way.

1:14 Why Oksana is passionate about helping first-time home-buyers.
2:25 Buying a home in your 20's.
5:03 Why now is a good market for first-time home buyer.
8:44 First-time home-buyer loan programs.
12:30 The 85% rule.
15:00 What your first step should be.

You can reach Oksana at oksanan@johnlscott.com

Links mentioned on the show:

USDA loan program:
https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-direct-home-loans/wa

Washington state bond:
https://www.wshfc.org/

EP: 0017 - A Shifting Market with Joy Edwards Brown

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0700

With interest rates on the rise and inventory increasing, the intensity of the market has changed rapidly over the last 2 months. What was an extreme frenzy sellers market, is now becoming a more balanced market in some parts of the county. Joy Edwards Brown and Paul Balzotti discuss this shift, and tips for buyers, sellers, and Realtors who are needing to work differently then they have in years.
Joy Edwards Brown has been a full-time Realtor for 12+ years, and has additional credentials including her managing brokers license, and she is also a certified trainer for John L Scott's Real Estate Agent Mastery Program (RAMP).

0:35 Joy Edwards Brown background.
2:20 Working through the 2009-2011 Real Estate market.
4:05 2020-2022 Real Estate extreme frenzy market.
4:47 Joy on setting buyer and sellers expectations in a shifting market.
10:20 Why we are seeing so many price reductions.
14:55 Getting buyers ready.
20:30 Predictions for the next 12 months.

You can reach Joy at joyedwardsbrown@johnlscott.com.

EP: 0016 The history of a home with Jen Sandoval

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0700

Bellingham has many historic homes, and Jen Sandoval is a Realtor who loves digging into the history of a home, and the history of the neighborhood. Paul and Jen cover everything from the resources out there to help you learn more about a home, to tips for things to consider when buying an older home.

You can reach Jen Sandoval at jensandoval@johnlscott.com or 360-223-2564.

0:15 Introduction of Jen and her background.
2:35 Researching the history of a home.
5:10 Different eras of homes and local and on-line resources.
8:44 What "Effective Year Built" means.
13:08 Tips for buyers looking at older homes.
17:50 Comparing older homes to modern homes.
19:25 About Bellingham Real Estate Stories and the follow-up vlog to this episode.

Link of City of Bellingham resources noted in podcast: https://cob.org/services/maps

EP: 0015 - Home flipping with a family. The art of move-up buying with Holly Tremaine Swanson

Mon, 23 May 2022 07:00:00 -0700

Holly Tremaine Swanson and her husband "Flippin Jeff" have bought and sold 15 homes over the last 20 years, landing finally in their dream home on Lake Whatcom. They moved into several homes for short periods of time, to remodel and flip, and move to the next. Moving up, and at one point moving back down, to then move back up again!
Holly's story is inspiring and enlightening for anyone interested in flipping homes, but living in the home they are flipping. She now can call herself an expert in both investing and moving up.

1:06 Holly's Real Estate background.
2:34 Holly's first home purchase.
4:27 Moving down to move back up again
7:30 What Holly looks for in a home to move-in to and flip.
13:15 How Holly prioritizes what to remodel when living in the home and in what order.
21:20 Tips for buyers looking to buy and remodel or flip.

You can reach Holly at hollytremaineswanson@johnlscott.com

EP: 0014 - Farm & Land with Crissy Impero. Tips for buying acreage in Whatcom County.

Mon, 09 May 2022 18:00:00 -0700

Are you considering a hobby farm, or buying acreage? Crissy Impero grew up in Whatcom County on land, and stll runs a small hobby farm. Paul Balzotti and Crissy discuss raw land, farming, and important factors to consider when buying acreage.

0:39 Crissy's background in Whatcom County and hobby farming.
3:07 Whatcom County areas to find acreage.
4:41 Private wells and water use-age.
9:30 Septic systems.
12:00 Forestry and open space designated land.
19:16 Building verse buying resell homes.

You can reach Crissy at crissyimpero@johnlscott.com or 360-393-7384

EP: 0013 - Whatcom County Real Estate Market Update with Valerie Richardson

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0700

Valerie Richardson and Paul Balzotti give a Real Estate market update for April of 2022. This includes breaking down the 1st quarter statistics, along with Valerie sharing some incredible sales stories from this first part of the year.

0:10 Introduction of Valerie Richardson.
1:30 Paul shares the 1st quarter market statistics.
3:10 Valerie shares stories of extreme bidding wars she was involved in so far this year.
12:08 The current market and what's next.
14:08 Techniques to win in a very competitive market.

Valerie Richardson is a 20 year Real Estate veteran, and consistent Presidents Club Gold production award winner with John L. Scott Real Estate. You can reach Valerie at vrichardson@johnlscott.com.

EP: 0012 - Foreclosures & Bank REO Properties with Peter Roberts

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0700

Peter Roberts has 35+ years in the Real Estate business and 29 years working with bank REO properties. Peter has sold more foreclosed homes than anyone in Whatcom County over that period. In this episode, Paul Balzotti and Peter discuss the foreclosure process, how to find bank foreclosure listings and tips for buying a distressed or foreclosed home.

0:48 Peter Roberts sales & bank REO background.
4:50 How the foreclosure process works.
6:25 The Realtor's involvement in the bank taking over the listing.
9:50 How to find bank REO listings.
15:25 Auction sales.
17:45 Success buying foreclosure homes.
20:50 First-time home buyer tips.
22:00 Tips on the purchase process.

For help buying a distressed home, or finding an investment property, you can reach Peter at peterroberts@johnlscott.com

EP: 0011 - Home Staging with Eric & Bre Green

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0700

Eric & Bre Green are a top producing Real Estate team and also owners of the Greenhouse Furniture & Home store in downtown Bellingham. Their staging services has been featured on HGTV "Unsellable Houses" for 2 seasons. They are also now the leading staging service in Whatcom County. They share how they got into offering staging, as well as some tips & insights into preparing your home for sale.

0:48 Eric and Bre Greens background in Real Estate & owning the Greenhouse home store.
3:48 How they started offering staging services to sellers & other Realtors & joined an HGTV show.
5:40 Defining staging verses decorating.
9:16 How staging changes the pricing and value of the home.
12:45 Staging tips for homeowners getting ready to sell.

For questions about selling your home, contact Eric at ericgreen@johnlscott.com. For staging services or interior decorating/furniture purchasing contact Bre at bre@greenhousehome.com

EP: 0010 - Relocating from Seattle to Bellingham with Nicole Tingvall

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0800

Bellingham has seen a surge of people relocating from the Greater Seattle area to Bellingham over the last 2 years. Nicole Tingvall is a Realtor who made that same transition just a few years ago! After growing up and living in Seattle for many years, she made the move to Bellingham in 2018, knowing no one! She started her career in Real Estate in Bellingham and has never looked back. She now specializes in helping clients relocate from all over the country, including many from the Seattle area. Paul Balzotti and Nicole discuss the reasons for the surge in relocation our direction, differences between Seattle and Bellingham, and things to know for those considering the move.

Nicole can be reached directly at nicoletingvall@johnlscott.com

1:00 Nicole's story, moving from Seattle to Bellingham.
6:53 Why we are seeing a surge in relocation to Bellingham.
9:54 What insights Nicole offers to buyers considering the move.
12:00 Bellingham neighborhoods.
14:04 Nicoles advice for buyers trying to buy in a hot market.

EP: 009 - The Power of VA Loans. Active Military & Veteran Resources w/ The Hoekema Team

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 15:00:00 -0800

Cherisa & AJ Hoekema are military veterans & and a well-established Real Estate team. They share their story of using the VA loan to both buy their primary residence as well as investment properties with zero down. They also talk about the resources available to active military and veterans in the Pacific Northwest.
You can reach them at hoekemateam@gmail.com or ajh@johnlscott.com.

1:00 Cherisa & AJ's military background.
4:57 How Cherisa & AJ have used the VA loan to buy their primary residence & investment properties.
8:02 How to buy 2 homes with a VA loan.
13:54 The struggles for veterans moving into civilian life.
15:24 Working with veterans on VA resources.
18:20 Local organizations that support active military and veterans.

EP: 008 - Affordable Housing with Julia Menkee

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 20:00:00 -0800

In a hot Real Estate market, the topic of affordable housing has never been more important. Julia Menkee is a veteran Realtor, and also the director of Whatcom Skagit Housing. Whatcom Skagit Housing is a local non-profit funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (through Rural Development) to assist limited-income families in building their own homes. Julia shares the details of this program and also discusses the issues related to affordable housing, along with the best solutions we have available to us.
You can reach Julia at juliamenkee@johnlscott.com

1:35 Julia Menkee's background in Real Estate and working for non-profits.
3:20 Detailing how the Whatcom Skagit housing program works.
9:00 issues affecting the lack of affordable homeownership.
13:30 Affordable housing solutions that exist right now in Whatcom/Skagit county.
14:47 Affordable housing programs.

EP 007 - Big Tech, Zillow, iBuyers & The Future of Real Estate with Keith Zackel

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0800

Keith Zackel has been a Realtor for 6+ years and produces our podcast. As a veteran broker and tech enthusiast, he was the right guy to discuss the different ways Zillow, Redfin and other big tech has transformed our industry and continue to force the Real Estate industry to evolve.
Keith can be reached at keithzackel@johnlscott.com

1:30 Zillow News.
3:23 The good and bad in how Zillow and Redfin disrupted the industry.
10:00 I-Buyers (instant offers).
14:35 The modern broker embraces technology.

EP 006 - Homes with ADUs - with Hannah Jones

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0800

ADU (additional dwelling units) is the discussion in this episode. Hannah (Jones) Cranny is a Realtor and Rookie of the Year for Whatcom County, who has not only helped clients buy homes with ADU's, but she has built an ADU as well that she rents out. In fact, Hannah built a home and lives in with roommates and the ADU paying her entire mortgage.
Paul Balzotti and Hannah discuss the process of building an ADU, the hurdles to make it happen, the difference between an ADU and a duplexes, how renting out part of your home or property creates more affordability for all

You can reach Hannah at hannahcranny@johnlscott.com

1:00 Defining what is an ADU.
3:11 Rules that differentiate a duplex from an ADU.
3:58 Hannah's story on how she built her ADU.
7:17 Different ways to get creative to have little to no mortgage.
8:33 Hurdles to jump through to make it happen.
11:52 Building an ADU in the county verse in the city.
14:45 Recalculating what you can afford when considering a home that has an ADU or ADU potential.

EP 005 - Keys to a Successful Real Estate Career with Nathan Butcher

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 06:00:00 -0800

What does it take to be successful in Real Estate? And what activities do the most successful brokers focus on in the first year verse year 5? Nathan Butcher is a top-producing Realtor in Bellingham Washington. In his first year in the business, he closed 21 transactions. Now after 5 years, he has been selling an average of 40 transactions per year the last 2 years, placing him in the top 3% of all Realtors. Broker/owner Paul Balzotti offers a candid interview with Nathan about his career trajectory, what has led to his success, and the mindset of a top producer.

You can reach Nathan at nathanbutcher@johnlscott.com

1:51 Nathan explains his inspiration to get into Real Estate.
5:09 Where Nathan found his business in his first year of business.
9:10 How Pokemon Go led to more sales & how your hobbies can lead to sales.
11:07 How Nathans career evolved from 21 to 40 transactions.
16:05 Paul on 3 things that are key to success in Real Estate.
21:00 The future of Real Estate.

EP 004 - Commercial Real Estate - with Commercial Broker Pat Starr

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 21:00:00 -0800

Pat Starr is a top producing Commercial Real Estate Broker in Bellingham Washington, with 14+ years of experience in commercial sales. Pat speaks English and Mandarin and his credentials include the CCIM designation. The discussion includes how he got started, what makes commercial sales so much different than residential, how to assess the value of a business and insights into where to invest today.

0:37 How Pat got into commercial sales.
2:40 The 2 revenue streams of a gas station.
5:25 Defining commercial sales.
6:25 The job of a commercial broker verse a residential broker.
12:00 Commercial loans verse residential loans.
13:00 Analyzing the value of a business.
15:20 Metrics used to evaluate a business opportunity.
19:53 What investments Pat prefers for 2022.

You can reach Pat at patrickstarr@johnlscott.com or 360-961-2671.

EP 003 - Green Homes & Energy Efficiency, Bellingham Washington's new building codes, with Irena Lambrou

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 11:00:00 -0800

Irena Lambrou has an MA from WWU, has taught sustainability at a college level, and most recently has been part of a grassroots group in Bellingham to move Bellingham Washington away from Fossil Fuel expansion. As a Real Estate broker, she also understands homes! Paul and Irena discuss tips for energy efficiency in your home and discuss the benefits and trade-offs of going all-electric.

0:35 Irenas background in this field.
1:33 Tips for remodeling your home to add energy efficiency.
6:58 City of Bellinghams proposal to go all-electric with new construction.
8:44 Electric verse natural gas.
13:40 The future of what the city of Bellingham may require in existing homes.

Irena can be reached at irenalambrou@johnlscott.com and you can search for homes on her website at www.irenalambrou.johnlscott.com

Links to rebates discussed in the podcast can be found at:
https://pse.com/rebates
https://cleanenergyassociation.org/washington-clean-energy-1
https://sustainableconnections.org/community-energy-challenge/

EP 002 - Real Estate Investing. Home Flipping & Cash Flow with Hunter Schenk

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 14:00:00 -0800

Hunter is a 26-year-old Real Estate broker who owns 10 rental properties and has flipped 4 homes in the last year. These flips have all shown a massive profit...and he has done it all with very little down. Paul & Hunter discuss how to prospect for good deals, financing options, and buying to flip versus buying for cash flow.

0:25 Hunters investment portfolio.
1:48 How Hunter got started investing.
2:25 Where to find investment deals.
6:20 How to finance fixers with little to no money down.
9:23 Buying rentals for cash flow, verse buying a fixer to flip.
12:07 Analyzing cash flow, and buying in Bellingham compared to other markets.
14:07 Mistakes to avoid.

You can reach Hunter at hunterschenk@johnlscott.com

EP 001 - New Construction & Building a Custom Home, with Kelly Hanlon

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 14:00:00 -0800

Kelly Hanlon has custom built 9 homes, and been involved in several other gut remodel and new construction projects as a general contract. She also has 14 years as a full-time Realtor as well. On this first episode, Paul Balzotti and Kelly to discuss her story, things to be mindful of when building a home, and tips for what steps to take first and purchasing land.

0:32 Kelly bio building homes.
1:21 Kelly story of building her first home.
2:30 Mistakes made when building.
8:07 Insights into being a general contractor.
13:12 How to get started if you want to build your own home.