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4 Important Benefits of Working with a Local Lender
The home-buying process involves many decisions. One of them is choosing a mortgage lender. Some people may think all lenders are pretty much the same, but that’s not the case. You want to work with a trusted professional. Working with a local lender can significantly increase your chances of success. Read on to find out how.
1. Personalized Experience
Before exploring neighborhoods and open houses, you need to get pre-approved for a loan. While there are many options, including your current bank and various online providers, it’s hard to beat the personalized service of a great local lender. Buying a home is most likely the biggest purchase you will ever make. Whether you’re a first-time or third-time home buyer, feeling comfortable asking questions is important. Using a local lender gives you easy access to people who can answer your questions in person or on the phone. This is extra helpful if you have a unique or complex situation that requires a more nuanced and hands-on approach.
2. Great Track Record
Typically, local lenders live in the community and are dedicated to and enthusiastic about the area they serve. Since they’re a local resident, client feedback and their reputation is important to them. Do your research and choose a lender with a proven track record. Help your offer stand out by having a lender with a well-earned reputation for being responsive and getting loans closed on time. And remember, local lenders have a vested interest in making sure each loan closes smoothly and efficiently. They know that you may be bumping into them at the grocery store or chatting about your experience with neighbors.
3. Trusted Reputation
Overall, local lenders appeal to sellers and real estate agents because they have better reputations for closing on time. This can be especially important if you’re trying to win in a multiple offer situation. Sometimes sellers or agents have had bad past experiences with national banks or online lenders. If you have a trusted local lender, this could be the one thing that tips the scales in your favor. At Windermere, we’re proud to partner with Generations Home Loans.
“Generations Home Loans works hard to offer the best local financing options to Windermere clients,” explains Cherie Kesti, Generations Home Loans Mortgage Advisor. “The reputation of Generations as a local lender is instrumental in helping the Real Estate Brokers and their clients gain a sense of confidence that their transaction is going to close on time, with the best financing options available. I’ve known sellers who picked a Generations-approved buyer amongst other offers because they had a past positive experience with Generations and knew their transaction would close as agreed.”
4. Community Knowledge
Local lenders have a deep understanding of the community and the local housing market. This makes them a valuable asset. They have personal connections with everyone involved in the home buying process including real estate agents, appraisers, and underwriters. A local lender can serve as another knowledgeable guide.
For more information on the important benefits of working with a local lender, contact an experienced Windermere Real Estate Agent.
What to Know Before Moving to Central or South Kitsap County
If you’re looking to move somewhere with a little bit of everything: city amenities, suburban neighborhoods, beaches, forests, and even acres of land for sale, look no further than Central or South Kitsap County. This area includes Silverdale, Bremerton, and Port Orchard.
Windermere real estate agent Rebecca Johnson summarizes it perfectly, “Once you arrive in Kitsap County, you’ll never want to leave! From fantastic restaurants and small businesses to state-of-the-art medical care, top-notch beaches, and hiking, everything you need is within a 30-minute drive!”
Kitsap County is a large geographic area in Western Washington that borders Puget Sound. Due to the expansive area, portions of the county are referred to as North, Central, or South Kitsap. We’ve compiled some helpful information focusing on what Central and South Kitsap provide.
The real estate market is strong and varied
In Central and South Kitsap County, you’ll find many single-family homes for sale, as well as condos, waterfront properties, manufactured homes, and more. There are also many new builds, and we’ve seen a steady increase in people moving here from the Seattle area. Our Windermere Silverdale office has a team of experts ready to help you navigate the market. As the spring market heats up, we expect to see more multiple offer situations. So, if you’re thinking of buying this spring or summer, we recommend speaking to a local Realtor right away. Because our area has a range of properties, you want to work with someone who knows our market well, and can speak to the history and nuances of certain neighborhoods.
The cost of living is lower
The cost of living in Central or South Kitsap County is generally more affordable than surrounding areas. Check out the most recent quarterly market data to learn about home sales in Kitsap County. Also, while the property tax rate for Port Orchard, Bremerton and Silverdale vary by city, they all have rates at or below the state’s median property tax rate of 0.88%.
Enjoy the ferries to Seattle
There is a ferry to Seattle from Bremerton and the crossing time is 60 minutes. Another option is the Kitsap Fast Ferry. This is a passenger-only ferry (vs. the large WA State Ferries, which you can drive onto). The Fast Ferry gets Bremerton commuters to Seattle in 30 minutes or less. Additionally, the Port Orchard Fast Ferry takes passengers to Bremerton in 12 minutes.
Be sure to check all ferry schedules for updates. You can download the WSDOT app (or follow them on social media). Additionally, you can subscribe to Fast Ferry alerts. Ferries can be impacted by weather, maintenance, and unforeseen circumstances so it’s important to stay in the loop if you plan on using them to get to work.
We have a strong military presence
Naval Base Kitsap greatly contributes to our community’s military presence. Encompassing over 12,000 acres across the Kitsap Peninsula between two sites, it houses the country’s third largest fleet concentration. Their presence means there is a strong civilian and military workforce, as well as military-related resources.
If you or your spouse are in the military and are going to be stationed here soon, check out our Military Resources page. You’ll find everything from in-depth school information to VA loan resources.
We have many great schools
Central Kitsap School District primarily serves students and families in Silverdale and portions of Bremerton. South Kitsap School District primarily serves students in Port Orchard, as well as some portions of Bremerton. Both school districts serve students from elementary to high school and offer a wide variety of services.
There are also private school options in all three cities, as well as different preschools and daycares.
There are many fun things to do here
Compared to North Kitsap County, Central and South Kitsap County tend to have a more active nightlife. These areas are also relatively close to other towns such as Gig Harbor and Tacoma, and the ferry makes Seattle just a boat-ride away from big concerts, Seahawks games, and more. We have big box stores like Costco, Trader Joe’s, and Target. There are also large shopping centers with well-known retailers in the Kitsap Mall and The Trails at Silverdale.
Bremerton and Port Orchard also have downtown waterfronts to explore. The Port Orchard waterfront has restaurants, playgrounds, and small shops. They also host a series of annual events downtown, such as the upcoming Ladies Night Out on April 25th.
Downtown Bremerton and its waterfront is also expanding. The city has a strong arts scene, with special event venues like the Admiral Theatre and the Roxy Theatre. There is also a wealth of information on the city’s website to explore local activities, including an events calendar. The annual Blackberry Festival is a huge event every summer that attracts locals and visitors alike.
Windermere Broker/Realtor Mark Plastina has lived here since he was fourteen and raves about the proximity to different activities. “The location is centralized to anything I need…If I feel the need for a relaxing afternoon, I go to Poulsbo. If I feel that need to see friends and play softball, I go to west Bremerton or Port Orchard. It doesn’t take a lot of time to get to places.”
Outdoor activities are endless
No matter which part of Kitsap County you are in, you are able to do all kinds of outdoor activities. Popular hiking trails include the Illahee Preserve and Dickerson Creek Falls in Bremerton. Banner Forest Heritage Park in Port Orchard is also wonderful and Clear Creek Trail in Silverdale offers over 7 miles of trails – a beautiful break from the city.
Golfers can enjoy places like Gold Mountain Golf Club in Bremerton or Trophy Lake Golf & Casting in Port Orchard. Mountain bikers and horseback riders can share the trails at Ueland Tree Farm and Newberry Hill Heritage Park. The opportunities are truly endless.
If you prefer to be on the water, grab a kayak or paddle board and follow the Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trails map for scenic views. There are also local boat rentals out of the Bremerton and Port Orchard marinas for sightseeing or fishing. Additionally, we have local lakes scattered around Central and South Kitsap that are good for fishing, swimming or picnicking in the summertime.
If you’re looking for an overall lower cost of living while still staying near big-city amenities, then Port Orchard, Bremerton and Silverdale are great options. Though we may be biased, we invite you to explore our area. We think you’ll discover it’s an incredible place to live.
8 DIY Projects to Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal
Whether you want to sell your home or enhance its exterior, we have some easy DIY projects to help you get started. Small investments in your curb appeal can have a positive impact on your home’s value and appreciation. Your home, at a glance, can leave a lasting impression. Here are eight ways to make it really stand out.
1. Upgrade your front door
There are three exterior upgrades with a high return on investment: painting the home, replacing the siding, and upgrading your front door. Start with the easiest one, which you can do yourself. You can upgrade your front door by replacing it or by adding a fresh coat of paint. Either way, a beautiful front door makes a statement before anyone enters your home.
2. Update the front porch
A well-thought-out front porch will also boost your curb appeal. First and foremost, if there is room, consider adding outdoor furniture. Seating invites others to enjoy your outdoor space. A few potted plants can also brighten your home’s exterior. Another way to improve your porch is to add outdoor lighting. Finally, lean into each season by decorating it for special holidays. A few colorful throw pillows that say spring, or a festive holiday wreath, will welcome guests and/or prospective buyers in a thoughtful way.
If you’d like to stretch beyond DIY projects and get a professional involved, consider hiring someone to install railings or expand your porch, if possible. For more inspiration, check out these front porch ideas.
3. Elevate front yard landscaping
As you plan your front yard landscaping, make sure to consider the grading and drainage of the property. You will want to ensure water flows away from the home. Also, make sure you choose plants conducive to living in the Pacific Northwest. Native plants, or those that occur naturally in a region, preserve biodiversity. Additionally, you’ll want to consider these landscaping rules when planning how to spruce up your front yard.
4. Plant flowers
Window box flowers can add a charming, refreshing glow to your home’s exterior. Additionally, flower beds in front of the porch or along the driveway can add to your property’s aesthetic. This article contains tips from a professional about color pairing, proper companion planting, and more. Or, check out these inspirational photos of container gardens.
5. Invest in driveway enhancements
When approaching your driveway, consider what enhancements would fit best at a distance. For decorative elements, you may want to consider purchasing a fountain to add a pleasing acoustic element to the space. Or, a new gate might really improve your driveway. You may want to hire a professional to put in a motorized gate. However, if your space is smaller, decorative fencing that is low or waist-high should be a doable weekend DIY project.
6. Create a functional pathway design
First and foremost, ensure the path is clear and free from overgrowth. A simple push of the broom or power washing can do wonders to make the driveway and paths look clean. Trim back any existing bushes and keep lawns mowed. Make any necessary repairs to keep the property functional and looking its best.
There are many DIY projects to improve the look of the main pathway to your front door. Edging can create an outline that guides visitors to your door and creates zones within the front of the property. Installing pavers or stamped concrete can build a clean line into the property. Watch the video below to see if this appeals to you.
7. Make your house number stand out
A house number DIY project is pretty simple yet effective. You’ll want to make sure the style you choose is large enough to easily see from the street, and that it’s well-lit. Check out these inspirational house number ideas. Consider using tiles, mosaics, stencils, or metal. There are many great ways to make it stand out.
8. Illuminate your home’s curb appeal with a well-lit path
Outdoor path lighting makes your home more inviting, creates a cohesive look at night, and makes it easier to navigate, especially if you have steps to your front door. That warm glow will illuminate certain features, such as a fountain, an expansive front porch, or a curving walkway adorned with flowers.
If you thoughtfully plan out how you want to improve your home’s curb appeal, you’ll soon have a refreshed exterior that wows anyone who stops by. You’ll also be able to enjoy your home even more. If you’re thinking of selling, these changes can definitely make a difference.
New Agent Spotlight: Nate Wallen
Proud of his Kitsap roots, Nate Wallen grew up here and offers his clients local expertise and a strong resource network. He’s highly involved in the community and has a background in operations management. Learn about Nate’s approach to real estate, his hobbies, and more in our Q&A below.
What drew you to real estate?
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I serve the entire peninsula and Tacoma.
How long have you lived here?
Silverdale born and raised. I left town for college and to play baseball. I graduated in 2011 from Central Washington University and hung up my cleats. Feeling homesick, I moved back to Kitsap County and started coaching baseball. This truly is an amazing community to grow up in and exactly where I wanted to start my family.
How are you involved in the community?
I have been the Assistant Varsity HS Baseball Coach at Central Kitsap for the past 5 years, and I coached at Kingston and Bremerton High School before that. When the opportunity to coach at my alma mater came, I couldn’t pass it up. My wife and I are also active community members of the West Sound Disc Golf Association, where we maintain all the local courses and help run fundraising and tournament events. We also have three children (2 boys and a girl), and they play ALL the sports.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
Nancy Mackleit and the new agent program offered here are unmatched for beginning agents. Also, my mother worked at Windermere for years and had an incredible experience.
If you want to learn more about Nate Wallen, check out his website. We know he will continue to provide excellent service to his clients.
New Agent Spotlight: Nolan Reynolds
With a background in real estate videography, home remodeling, and real estate investment, Nolan Reynolds offers home buyers and sellers a wealth of information. He’s also lived in Kitsap County for decades. Nolan recently joined Windermere Silverdale, and we’re so glad he’s on our team. Read on to find out about his background, interests, and more.
What drew you to real estate?
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I serve Kitsap County, Mason County, and the greater Tacoma area. I love the natural beauty we have here. In particular, I think our little corner of the Pacific Northwest is even more beautiful because we have so many incredible mountain and shoreline views.
How are you involved in the community?
Through my video business over the past 10+ years, I have gotten to work with all kinds of great organizations in the community, including North Mason Regional Fire Authority, Boys & Girls Clubs of South Puget Sound, Kitsap Strong.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
I appreciated all of the in-depth training that we receive at Windermere. Multiple days each week we get to sit with our managing broker and dive into all of the real estate paperwork possibilities. Although it can sometimes be challenging, I value the opportunity to learn as much as possible so that I can be as valuable as possible to my clients.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
In addition to real estate, photography, and videography, I enjoy traveling to new places. My wife and I recently went to Turkey. My best bud got married in Istanbul, where his wife is from. We were lucky to have the chance to attend the wedding and spend a few weeks in Turkey. The night before their wedding, her family had us over for a traditional homemade Turkish dinner. It was a really special experience to have them take us all into their home and make us an incredible meal. The picture below is from that night.
If you want to learn more about Nolan Reynolds, you can check out his website, which contains more info about him and helpful local resources. Watch his interesting local videos (from the beautiful to the funny) on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
HOA: What’s a Homeowners’ Association & How Does it Work?
Does your dream home come with a Homeowners’ Association (HOA)? Are you curious about what that would mean for you as the homeowner? Let’s explore what an HOA does. We will also examine some of the pros and cons of living under their governance.
What is an HOA?
An HOA is an organization that governs a community of homes. The type of home can vary. An HOA may be organized to oversee condos, townhomes, or a neighborhood of single-family homes. According to the Foundation for Community Association Research, 30% of the population in the United States now resides in a community association.
When you live in an HOA, you must comply with their Covenants, Conditions, & Restrictions. Also known as CC&Rs, they outline what can and cannot be done to your home and what is the responsibility of the HOA. The CC&Rs commonly include regulations such as parking rules, upkeep expectations, and processes for making changes to the outside of your home or settling neighbor disputes.
In addition, if a homeowner does not comply with the rules or governances of the HOA, they could be subject to fines until they comply with the organization’s rules.
What are the fees associated with an HOA?
Fees vary widely by HOA. Some charge less than $100 a month, while others charge about $1,000 a month. The HOA will collect the dues monthly or annually. The dues are used to run the association.
In addition, an HOA may collect fines from homeowners not following the CC&Rs. Or, they may impose a special assessment as a large one-time fee to cover a project in the association that falls beyond the scope of the budget.
What benefits will they provide?
Monthly dues can vary because their services vary. In some cases, an HOA will cover all gardening, exterior work and other community amenities (such as a pool or gym). Some even pay for utilities.
In other cases, the HOA may act more as a guide to oversee compliance with home upkeep and smaller community spaces. They may be in place to help the neighborhood maintain property values by ensuring the neighborhood’s aesthetic remains favorable.
What if I break a rule?
Breaking a rule could lead to a warning. If it is not addressed, then it may become a fine. It is also important to consider the annual or monthly assessments as part of your mortgage payment, much like your insurance and property taxes. Failure to pay the annual assessments could, in the worst-case scenario, lead to a lien on your property. Check out Washington’s detailed Homeowners’ Association laws.
Where can I learn more about an HOA?
When you’re thinking about purchasing a home that’s part of a Homeowners’ Association, do your research and speak to potential neighbors. You should be completely aware of what they offer as well as their rules, fees, and regulations. HOA documents such as the CC&Rs should be disclosed in your home purchase paperwork. Read all the homeowner expectations and the benefits provided by the HOA carefully. This will help you better understand what your new community will entail.
HOAs have pros and cons. It’s important to understand the expectations and regulations in advance. For some, a higher monthly fee may be worth not having to deal with exterior maintenance and landscaping. For others, the restrictions placed on property improvements may not fit their lifestyle or desires as a homeowner. It is a personal decision, and every HOA is different.
The Home-Selling Timeline & Mistakes to Avoid
The home-selling timeline can vary greatly due to factors like market conditions and how well your home is priced. However, if you follow these general steps for selling a home and avoid common mistakes, there is a greater chance of selling your home faster and for top dollar.
Use a well-qualified, local agent
A well-qualified agent will serve many purposes in your home-selling journey. First and foremost, they will know your local market. They can do a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and will price your home correctly. Great local agents often know excellent local vendors who will help prepare your home. In addition, they have access to the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), which will broadcast your home to numerous buyers agents.
Prepare your home, and don’t leave it to chance
Before listing your home, make sure you’ve addressed all home maintenance needs. A pre-listing inspection is a valuable tool. It can determine areas of the home that need attention. Also, check out this list of home maintenance projects you shouldn’t put off. Your home-selling timeline will go much faster when you’ve already cleaned gutters, checked your roof, ensured there aren’t any pests, and made necessary repairs.
Your agent can also determine the value of larger home projects. Together, you can decide if it’s worth the time and effort to make various improvements. Updating the kitchen, replacing an old front door, or even improving the home’s curb appeal could be profitable. If you need funds to finance a project, consider the Windermere Ready Program. This program fronts the costs of the home improvements for Windermere clients. Through this program, you don’t have to pay back the loan until the home sells.
Finally, staging the home can significantly impact the appeal of your home. While it involves upfront costs, according to a survey done by the National Association of Realtors, it often results in homes selling faster and for more.
Show your home, but don’t stick around
Once your home is listed for sale, your agent will begin showing it. It is best to leave the home and remove pets during showings. Keep the home neat and tidy so potential buyers can envision themselves in it. Ensure your valuables are safe, and put miscellaneous items away.
Carefully review offers, and don’t accept just anything
You might receive multiple offers. Review each offer carefully with your agent. Consider your personal timeline, financial needs, and other benefits of each offer before choosing one.
Understand agreements, and don’t forget the addendums
Once you’ve accepted an offer, you and the buyer will enter into a sales agreement. This will outline the details of your property transfer. It is very common for sales agreements to include multiple addendums. Financing, inspections, and condition reports/disclosures are common addendums. Depending upon the situation, there might be a contingency addendum and other special condition addendums.
Be prepared for escrow, and don’t ignore the deadlines
The process will move to escrow once disclosures, a home inspection, and any repair negotiations are finalized. Stay in constant touch with your lender (if financing the home), the escrow company, and your real estate agent. You will need all of them to finalize financing, close on the home, and prepare legal documents such as the title to the home. Keep careful track of any documents that need to be submitted, signed, and/or notarized to keep the home-selling timeline on track.
Reap your rewards, but don’t be surprised by home-selling fees
Hopefully, selling your home will result in a net profit. However, don’t be surprised by the fees associated with selling a home. State taxes, inspections, and existing home loans are all factored into your estimated net proceeds. Your real estate professional can explain other fees you may face as well, such as brokerage fees.
Come to closing, and don’t forget your ID
Bring all required documentation and identification when it’s time to come to closing and sign the final paperwork. Oftentimes a notary public will also be present to witness the signing. Any fees that are due will be expected at this time. Then, upon completion of closing, everything will be recorded.
Don’t forget to enjoy what’s next
While preparing a home for the market and selling it can be stressful, don’t forget to look forward to your next steps. Perhaps you’re downsizing and can look forward to having a smaller space to maintain. Or, maybe you’re relocating for an exciting new job. Whatever the case may be, don’t forget to enjoy the positive aspects of the experience and all that comes next.
If you are in the process of selling your home and buying a new one at the same time, consider a Windermere Bridge Loan. It allows you to access the equity in your home to put a down payment on your next one. Although the requirements for a bridge loan are more stringent, they are definitely something to consider if you want to increase your competitiveness as a buyer.
We wish you the best of luck in your home-selling journey, and all that lies ahead!
Homeownership Myths Debunked
If the dream of homeownership often feels unattainable, consider analyzing what you hear and assumptions people often make. Cherie Kesti, Penrith Branch Manager and Mortgage Consultant, has heard many myths and misconceptions. She has over 20 years of experience in the home financing industry. So, we asked if she would provide the facts, and she graciously agreed. Here are 10 homeownership myths debunked.
Cherie Kesti, Branch Manager/Mortgage Consultant, NMLS #754397
Myth #1: I need a 20% down payment
If you have a 20% down payment, great. However, you may qualify with as little as 3% down if you’re a first-time home buyer. Even 5% down is a possibility if you’re not a first-time home buyer purchasing your primary home. Also, there are -0- down payment loans such as VA and USDA as qualifications allow.
Myth #2: I’ll wait to buy with today’s interest rates
Waiting could cost you. First of all, home values will increase over time. Then, if interest rates do fall again, there will be much more competition to purchase homes. This could make it more difficult to get the home you want. Look at it this way: marry the house and date the rate. You can always refinance the mortgage rate if they drop again. Conversely, you may not be able to purchase at the same level in a year or two or three from now.
Myth #3: I can’t qualify for an investment home
Did you know you can purchase a 2 – 4 family home, live in one unit, and then collect rent on the units that you don’t occupy as your primary home? Plus, you could do this with as little as 3.5% down payment!
Myth #4: I need a 720-credit score
There are mortgage loan programs available for buyers with lower credit scores.
Myth #5: I’ll never have enough for a down payment
There are down payment assistance programs available to help cover the down payment and some closing costs based on qualifications. In addition, did you know that a monetary gift from a family member is allowed and an acceptable source of down payment and closing costs? Did you know that you may be able to borrow money from certain retirement accounts to access funds for a down payment on a home?
Myth #6: Renting is cheaper than homeownership
If you move around a lot, yes, renting might be cheaper. However, if you’re putting down roots, homeownership has traditionally proven to be a positive financial investment with appreciation over a period 5 – 9 years. Typically, if you put down the minimum down payment at the time of purchase, it is recommended that you stay in your home long enough for the equity to build. Typically, this means having enough equity to cover your selling costs. Selling costs may amount to about 8% to 9% of your sales price.
Myth #7: Bankruptcy/ foreclosure ruined my chances
If this kind of event happened one to four years ago, you may be able to qualify for a new home loan. Never lose hope! Always call and ask.
Myth #8: Pre-qualification is the same as pre-approval
Pre-qualification usually means that your loan application and credit have been completed successfully online, and that’s all. However, pre-approval goes further. It means your supporting documents have been reviewed & approved by a formal underwriter who has approved your loan terms and conditioned the approval for property-related items such as a purchase agreement, appraisal, title report, and homeowner’s insurance for the new home. It is best to be fully approved before putting yourself under a legal contract to purchase a home. This will prevent unforeseen qualification blunders.
Myth #9: Self-employed= financing is impossible
When approval on a traditional mortgage loan seems impossible for a self-employed borrower, stay positive. There are mortgage loan programs where qualifying on the income received in business bank statements will be the answer to a successful approval.
Myth #10: You need a social security number
With at least one year of employment history, a valid ITIN card, or an IRS letter, financing a home may be possible. It could even be possible with as little as 15% down and credit scores as low as 600.
Homeownership is possible even in today’s housing market with rising prices and interest rates. First and foremost, take the time to speak with a lender to go over different loan options and programs. As Cherie Kesti said, “Never lose hope!”
If you have additional questions, contact Cherie.
New Agent Spotlight: Nicole Quinene
A veteran, longtime Kitsap local, and specialty contractor, Nicole Quinene possesses the skills and knowledge to empower homebuyers and sellers. She recently joined Windermere Silverdale, and we’re so happy to have her. Learn about her background, interests, and more in our Q&A.
What drew you to real estate?
My interest in real estate is multi-layered, encompassing both a goal of learning about property management and my genuine desire to educate individuals on the power of real estate investment. My journey began with a focus on property management. However, I felt it was crucial to explore real estate sales to find out if my true passion lay in home sales and education, before fully committing to property management. The more time I spend in the world of real estate, the more I realize my passion is to educate homebuyers and help them unlock the full potential of property ownership. That emerged as the primary focus of my interests. Additionally, my fascination and background with homes in need of remodeling have sparked an interest in the potential investment opportunities they offer.
My motivation as a broker is driven by a profound desire to empower individuals to invest in their future through real estate. I am motivated by a strong sense of purpose to support individuals who may not have had adequate access to information about property ownership and investment. Additionally, I fully recognize the potential investment opportunities presented by homes in need of remodeling, seeing them as not only a chance to revitalize properties but also to unlock their full financial potential for buyers.
My aspiration is to be an advocate for education, to share invaluable insights, and to shape perceptions surrounding home ownership and its profound impact on individuals’ futures.
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
As someone new to the real estate industry, my background as a specialty contractor equips me with a unique set of skills and insights that I believe will enhance my effectiveness as a realtor. This experience enables me to guide clients through properties, identifying potential opportunities for improvement along the way. Drawing from my problem-solving skills, honed through navigating unforeseen challenges at job sites, I am confident in my ability to address any issues that may arise during real estate transactions, finding creative solutions to ensure a positive outcome.
Furthermore, my experience in customer service, cultivated through direct interactions with clients, allows me to build strong relationships and communicate effectively. I believe these skills will contribute significantly to my ability to provide exceptional service throughout the home buying or selling process.
Overall, I am optimistic that my background as a specialty contractor will enrich my abilities as a realtor, offering valuable skills, knowledge, and perspectives that will contribute to my success in the industry.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
As a new real estate agent, I believe certain personality traits are crucial for my success in this profession. Firstly, emotional awareness and understanding are vital. Being empathetic and attentive to clients’ emotions helps build trust and address their needs effectively. Effective problem-solving skills are also key, enabling me to navigate challenges and find creative solutions to meet clients’ goals. Additionally, resilience is essential for overcoming setbacks and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of rejection and adversity. Adaptability is another critical trait I believe to be important, allowing me to adjust to new situations and remain flexible in a constantly changing environment. I believe as a real estate agent having perseverance is fundamental in having determination in pursuing goals, even in the face of challenges. Lastly, my curiosity drives continuous learning and growth, motivating me to seek out new experiences and expand my knowledge.
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I primarily serve Kitsap County, focusing specifically on the communities of Bremerton, Silverdale, and Port Orchard, which offer immense potential for investment. These areas boast a dynamic mix of urban amenities and scenic landscapes, with the natural beauty of Puget Sound alongside easy access to the vibrant city life of Seattle, and close proximity to Pierce County.
Kitsap County provides a diverse range of housing options, catering to various preferences and lifestyles, appealing to both homebuyers and investors. In particular, Bremerton, Silverdale, and Port Orchard are prime locations with ample opportunities for development and remodeling projects, offering exceptional investment potential.
How long have you lived here and what brought you here?
In 2000, my family moved from Guam to Bremerton when I was starting high school because of my father’s job transfer. I spent several years away from Washington while serving in the Air Force as a medical technician, and I returned to Washington because much of my immediate family still resided here.
How are you involved in the community?
My husband and I own a small business that primarily services the Kitsap County area. Additionally, I find fulfillment in giving back through volunteer work at our church, where I dedicate my time to caring for children in the nursery and toddler classroom. I recently enrolled with my oldest daughter in a Chamorro cultural dance class located in Tacoma, which offered a wonderful opportunity to immerse ourselves in our heritage and connect with others in the community.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
When considering which real estate agency to align myself with, my decision to work with Windermere was clear from the start. Despite not having personal experience with Windermere, I was aware of its highly professional reputation. It was important to me to align myself with a company that has a strong presence and established roots within the community. Windermere’s longstanding reputation and commitment to excellence made it the obvious choice for me. I wanted to immerse myself in an environment where I could learn from experienced professionals and contribute to a brokerage that is truly part of the community it serves.
If you’re interested in learning more about Nicole Quinene, you can check out her website, which contains local resources and helpful real estate tips. You can also follow her on Facebook or connect with her on Instagram.
Welcome to the Windermere family, Nicole!
New Agent Spotlight: Tasha Dwinell
Working with a real estate agent who is a lifelong local comes with many advantages. Meet Tasha Dwinell. She recently joined our Windermere Silverdale team and has lived here her whole life. Tasha is passionate about delivering excellent service to homebuyers and sellers. Learn about her interesting background in our Q&A below.
What drew you to real estate?
I have always had a passion for real estate, but more importantly, a passion for helping people. I want to connect with others and help them navigate this crazy industry while also helping them buy or sell a home.
What unique professional experiences enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
I have worked many different jobs in many different industries, but specifically, working in a restaurant for many years provided me with the most important skills. I have always said that everyone should have to work in some type of customer service position at least once in their lifetime to fully appreciate and understand how to effectively communicate with others.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
I feel that having a strong work ethic and being able to communicate with people are traits that are very important in this profession.
Which areas do you serve, and what do you love about the area?
I don’t feel like I have a boundary to the areas I serve. Having lived here all my life, I know a lot about this area and am proud to say that I love it here! I love our location and feel like we are secluded, yet an hour away from the big city life. The weather may be trying at times, but overall, I feel like this is truly the most beautiful area I’ve ever seen. The outdoor activities are endless, and I honestly can’t see myself living anywhere else!
I am also excited to get more involved in our community. I have a passion for helping people and would love to connect with the local food banks or homeless shelters. Also, I enjoy helping animals and will be looking into volunteering at the Kitsap Humane Society and/or rescue groups to volunteer my time.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
I was always familiar with Windermere and knew I wanted to work here. Once I had my interview, there was no question in my mind as to where I would be hanging my license. I can’t say enough great things about this office! It’s truly heartwarming to be surrounded by co-workers who are not only helpful but also create a family–like atmosphere!
We’re so glad Tasha joined our Windermere Silverdale team! If you want to learn more about Tasha Dwinell, check out her website.
