STEP 42 – TO SELLING YOUR HOME – WHAT EVERY SELLER NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT CLOSING

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Despite the perception of a “slow market,” winter 2025 in Whatcom County actually represents a real opportunity for sellers who adapt their approach strategically. After several years of rapid home price growth and extremely tight inventory, the market has entered a more balanced phase marked by higher inventory, steady buyer demand, and stable pricing across the region. Inventory Is Up — and So Is Competition Inventory has increased significantly over the past year. In Bellingham, active listings are up 41% year-over-year , with similar trends seen in Ferndale, Lynden, Blaine, and Birch Bay. This growth gives buyers more choices than they’ve had in years, but it also means sellers are competing for attention. Homes that stand out with professional staging, high-quality photos, and competitive pricing continue to sell quickly, even as the overall pace slows. Sellers who approach listing preparation thoughtfully are still seeing strong offers and solid closing timelines. Prices Remain Steady Home prices across Whatcom County have softened only slightly from their 2024 peaks but remain stable overall. The median home price currently hovers between $615,000 and $625,000 , with detached homes averaging around $620,000 . Average days on market have increased modestly, giving buyers a bit more breathing room — but that shift also highlights the importance of realistic pricing. Homes priced too aggressively tend to linger, while those aligned with current market data still attract steady interest. Ferndale continues to appeal to buyers seeking affordability and newer developments, while Bellingham holds its value thanks to its waterfront access, cultural amenities, and strong local economy. A Balanced Market Creates Strategic Openings With roughly 3.5 to 4 months of inventory , Whatcom County has reached a level of balance not seen in years. Buyers have more time to make decisions, but sellers who present their homes well and price strategically are still rewarded. This isn’t the frantic, multiple-offer market of 2021—but it’s also not a downturn. It’s a recalibration. Sellers who see it that way are the ones finding success. The Seller’s Advantage: Preparation and Precision Winter markets tend to filter out casual buyers. The ones shopping now are typically motivated—relocating, upsizing, or taking advantage of improved selection. That’s why preparation matters so much. Well-staged homes that photograph beautifully online and are priced in line with recent sales continue to capture attention. Sellers who invest a little time in presentation and flexibility in negotiation are often the ones walking away with strong results. The Bottom Line Winter 2025 in Whatcom County isn’t a “slow” market—it’s a smarter one. With rising inventory, stable pricing, and buyers who are still active but more deliberate, it’s a season where strategy counts more than speed. Sellers who adapt to these changes—by pricing realistically, presenting their homes thoughtfully, and staying patient—can take advantage of this moment to move forward successfully. Andi Dyer, REALTOR® RE/MAX Whatcom County 📞 Call: 360.734.6479 🌐 AndiDyer.com/schedule Expert Guidance to Buy, Invest, and Sell in Bellingham and Whatcom County  Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is winter a bad time to sell a home in Whatcom County? Not at all. Serious buyers stay active through winter, and less overall competition can make your home stand out. 2. Are home prices dropping in Whatcom County? Prices have softened slightly from their 2024 highs but remain steady. The market is balanced, not declining. 3. How long are homes taking to sell? Most homes are taking slightly longer—typically 30 to 45 days—but well-prepared listings can still go pending within two to three weeks. 4. Should sellers wait until spring 2026? Waiting isn’t always better. Listing now can mean less competition and a pool of serious buyers who want to move before spring. 5. What’s the key to selling successfully right now? Realistic pricing, strong presentation, and working with a REALTOR® who understands the shifting local market dynamics.

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To make traditional Swedish Glögg (mulled wine), you gently heat red wine and spirits with a blend of spices, orange zest, and sugar. The mixture is then strained and served warm with blanched almonds and raisins. Ingredients 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, or a Cotes du Rhone) 1/2 to 1 cup sugar (caster or granulated, to taste) 1/2 to 1 cup vodka, aquavit, bourbon, or brandy (optional, for a stronger drink) 1 orange (peel in wide strips, avoiding the white pith) 1 cinnamon stick 10 whole cloves 10 cardamom pods, lightly crushed 3-4 slices fresh ginger, peeled (optional) 1/2 cup raisins (plus more for serving) 1/2 cup blanched slivered almonds (for serving) Instructions Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, sugar, orange zest strips, cinnamon stick, cloves, crushed cardamom pods, and ginger slices (if using). Add the raisins and almonds into the mixture or save them for serving. Heat Gently Warm the mixture over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely. It is crucial that the mixture is heated gently and never allowed to boil, or the alcohol will cook off and the flavor will be spoiled. The temperature should stay below 175°F (77°C). This process typically takes 10-15 minutes. Steep Remove the pot from the heat, cover it with a lid, and let the spices infuse the wine. This can be done for at least 1 hour, or ideally, the mixture can be left to steep overnight in a cool place for a more intense flavor. Strain and Reheat Strain the glögg through a fine-mesh strainer to remove all the spices and orange peel. Discard the spices. Gently reheat the liquid over low heat until hot but not boiling. Add Spirit (Optional): Just before serving, stir in the vodka, aquavit, or other spirit of your choice, if using. Serve Ladle the warm glögg into small heatproof glasses or mugs. Garnish each serving with a few additional blanched almonds and raisins, which are traditionally eaten with a small spoon as you drink.

Bring a burst of color (and flavor!) to your table with this crisp, seasonal salad. Juicy pears, tart pomegranate seeds, and a lively ginger dressing make it a refreshing side for any fall or holiday meal.  🍁 Click below to get the recipe and add a little sparkle to your menu!

Got a surprise property tax bill? You may be able to appeal—but don’t wait. One homeowner called me two days before the deadline, and we built a successful appeal together. Check your 2025 valuation and email me “Tax Check” for a free review. It started with a Saturday night phone call. Frantic, a local homeowner reached out just days before the property tax appeal deadline. Their 2024 assessment had landed with a thud, forecasting a tax bill that felt wildly out of line with reality. The deadline to appeal? Monday, October 27th. Cue the scramble. That evening, too stormy to drive, I hunkered down at home and dove into the numbers. Something wasn’t right. The new valuation didn't match the trajectory of their neighborhood market. The math simply didn’t check out. Sunday morning, we got to work. I drove out to their property, and together we built a bulletproof appeal. We reviewed sales data, took updated photos, and pulled relevant comparables to submit with their documentation. The appeal package was ready to go by Monday morning. Crisis averted. Here’s what every Whatcom County homeowner should know: Your property valuation notice typically arrives in September. You have 30 days from the date on the notice to file an appeal. If the number looks off, don’t shrug and hope it’s close enough. You can challenge it—and often should, especially in fluctuating markets like Bellingham, Ferndale, and beyond. The key takeaway? Don’t wait until the last minute. It pays to be proactive. Assessments aren’t always accurate, and appealing your property valuation could save you thousands. If your 2025 valuation doesn’t reflect the true market value of your home, you have options—and you don’t have to figure them out alone. Let’s make sure you’re not overpaying. If your new valuation feels too high, DM me "Tax Check" and I’ll give you a free property value review. We’ll go over the numbers together and see if an appeal makes sense. Still have questions? Let’s meet for coffee and talk it through. I’m always happy to help you navigate the less-fun-but-super-important parts of homeownership.

🍂 This hearty vegetable lasagna is the perfect fall meal—warm, colorful, and packed with seasonal goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels just as good on a weeknight as it does at a fall gathering.

Quick Take: Bellingham’s 2025 housing market offers something refreshingly rare - balance. More listings, steady prices, and moderate competition are giving both buyers and downsizers room to breathe and act strategically. 

Looking to invest smartly or plan your next move in Whatcom County? Some local neighborhoods are showing impressive signs of growth, value retention, and strong rental potential making them ideal for long-term appreciation. Here’s a look at five communities worth keeping on your radar: 1. Roosevelt (Bellingham) With its central location, large lots, and ADU-friendly zoning, Roosevelt continues to attract buyers who want flexibility and walkable convenience. It’s a favorite among those seeking character and proximity to downtown. 2. Birch Bay This waterfront community is seeing major infrastructure upgrades and renewed interest as a vacation and investment hub. Its scenic shoreline and growing amenities make it a strong contender for long-term appreciation. 3. Ferndale (East Side) With newer developments, room to expand, and commuter-friendly access to I-5, East Ferndale offers both value and convenience. It’s an area where growth feels steady and sustainable. 4. Columbia (Bellingham) Known for its historic charm and tight-knit feel, Columbia holds its value remarkably well. Buyers love its tree-lined streets and classic homes — perfect for light renovations or long-term investment. 5. Sudden Valley An affordable entry point into lake life, Sudden Valley combines trails, community amenities, and access to Bellingham with room to grow. Its popularity among remote workers continues to rise. 📊 Want to See Data for Your Favorite Neighborhood? I can send you a custom report with market trends and appreciation forecasts tailored to your goals.