Best Practices for Open Houses, Showings & In-Person Interactions During the Coronavirus

Andi • March 17, 2020

CORONAVIRUS & REAL ESTATE

As the news and impact of COVID-19 continues to evolve, many Buyers and Sellers are wondering what to do as they still need to move and buy a home or sell a home during this traditionally busy spring season.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Washington State Department of Health (WSDH) are currently recommending people not gather in groups of 10 or more. Additionally, on Sunday, March 15th, Governor Jay Inslee signed an emergency declaration temporarily shutting down bars, restaurants, and places of entertainment and recreation statewide, and capping all public gatherings at 50 people. With these thoughts in mind, here are a few recommendations:

ALL MY GUESTS HAVE BEEN GIVEN DIRECTIONS & SIGNS TO POST AT THEIR FRONT DOORS & BATHROOMS

Partial sample

OPEN HOUSES

~ The Sellers and I will discuss the pros and cons of holding open houses, especially if there are young, elderly, or immunocompromised people living in the home. Many open houses have been very busy. Sellers may want to consider leaving their homes during the weekend of their open houses.

~ Our Multiple Listing Services has made the difficult decision to disable the open houses feature until at least March 31st. Realtor, Zillow, Redfin, etc. all have their own policies that are adapting.

~ I will still be holding open houses (if agreed to with the Sellers) on my listings in partnership with the Sellers we will be cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces and having a hand sanitizer placed at the front door. We will be requesting all guests to use the hand washing station with disposable towels upon entering and leaving them home. Sellers will be disinfecting the home for their own safety after showings (especially doorknobs, faucet handles, etc.).

~ No food or drinks will be provided.

SHOWINGS

~ If another group is touring a home before us, we will wait outside for them to finish. Once they leave, I will access the house and we will carefully tour it sanitizing before entering and after exiting.

~ If there is a home you want more information on but are not comfortable seeing it in person, I can do a live video walk-through (with the Seller’s permission).

IN-PERSON INTERACTIONS

~ It has been a Seller’s market so we have already been using video calling and electronic signing so we are ahead of the curve here!

Please see the CDC’s website and the Washington State Department of Health’s website for the latest updates about the disease. Additional information about the impact of coronavirus on the real estate industry can be found on the National Association of Realtor’s website.

Remember, we are in this together and the goal is to keep each other safe. We will be communicating and updating these policies as information changes.

~ Andi

First-Time Homebuyer Class October 2025

By Andi Dyer • August 26, 2025
LAST CHANCE: First-Time Homebuyer Class — Two-Night Series (Sept & October) Missed Tuesday’s class at Goods? You’ve got two more chances this year—each is a two-night event. Pick one month and plan to attend both nights to complete the series at Movement Mortgage: 2200 Rimland Dr, Suite #250, Bellingham, WA 98226. Choose your series: * September: Sept 15 and Sept 17 at 6:30 pm * October: Oct 20 and Oct 21 at 6:30 pm Why join us: Unlock up to $40,000 in down payment assistance through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (eligibility applies; this class is required to qualify). Whatcom County market snapshot: what’s moving, what’s sitting, and why. Clear, step-by-step game plan: financing → offers → inspections → keys. Live Q&A with local pros. Bring your questions (we’ll translate the acronyms). Space is limited—these are our final classes of the year. P.S. Assistance programs have eligibility requirements and limited funds. We’ll walk you through the details so you know exactly where you stand.

First-Time Homebuyer Class September 2025

By Andi Dyer • August 26, 2025
LAST CHANCE: First-Time Homebuyer Class — Two-Night Series (Sept & October) Missed Tuesday’s class at Goods? You’ve got two more chances this year—each is a two-night event. Pick one month and plan to attend both nights to complete the series at Movement Mortgage: 2200 Rimland Dr, Suite #250, Bellingham, WA 98226. Choose your series: * September: Sept 15 and Sept 17 at 6:30 pm * October: Oct 20 and Oct 21 at 6:30 pm Why join us: Unlock up to $40,000 in down payment assistance through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (eligibility applies; this class is required to qualify). Whatcom County market snapshot: what’s moving, what’s sitting, and why. Clear, step-by-step game plan: financing → offers → inspections → keys. Live Q&A with local pros. Bring your questions (we’ll translate the acronyms). Space is limited—these are our final classes of the year. P.S. Assistance programs have eligibility requirements and limited funds. We’ll walk you through the details so you know exactly where you stand.

Back on the Market: A Downtown Bellingham Landmark

By Andi Dyer • August 25, 2025
If you know Bellingham, you know 1107 Railroad Ave. This is the building that grew up with Boundary Bay Brewery from its early days in the basement to the bustling beer garden and stage that became a heartbeat of downtown. Now, this iconic property is officially back on the market . 3 connected buildings (1103–1107 Railroad Ave) Prime .55 acre lot across from Depot Market Square 10,599 sq. ft. of historic commercial space Zoned Commercial with endless potential Whether you see the future as a brewery, event space, or another community-minded hub, opportunities like this don’t come around often. Reach out today to explore this rare piece of Bellingham’s history and future. Andi Dyer Real Estate Real estate with care, respect, and vision Andi: 360.734.6479 | Katie: 360.820.3065 

History Sunset Cruises are Back!

By Andi Dyer • August 25, 2025
Tuesday evenings now through Aug 26th from 6–8 PM , depart from the Bellingham Cruise & Ferry Terminal for a bay tour with local legend Kolby LaBree plus select trivia and family nights. Tickets $55 (or $45 for Museum members); kids 5 and under sail free . Proceeds support Whatcom Museum programs. Grab your spot before they sell out. P.S. I did the history tour with Kolby a few weeks ago and it was terrific, I learn something new each time with her!

Join Us: First Time Homebuyer Class

By Andi Dyer • August 13, 2025
Join us and our guest Amy Baker to learn about first-time home buying on Tuesday, August 19th, at Goods Local Brews (2620 Northwest Ave.) at 6 pm. Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, and we’re here to help make the process simple and stress-free! Join us for our First-Time Home Buyer Seminar, where we’ll break down everything you need to know—from understanding mortgages and down payment assistance programs to navigating the home-buying process with confidence. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step, this seminar will provide expert insights and practical advice to help you make informed decisions on your journey to homeownership. Questions? Call/text: 360.734.6479 

How's the Market? July 2025

By Andi Dyer • August 13, 2025
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FREE MacDuff 2.0 Stickers!

By Andi Dyer • August 13, 2025
WANT A FREE MACDUFF 2.0 STICKER? MACDUFF 2.0 stickers are here! Want one? Text or call me at 360.734.6479 and I’ll hook you up with a free sticker! 

Women's Council of REALTORS®

By Andi Dyer • August 13, 2025
I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be representing the Women’s Council of REALTORS® – Northwest Washington Network at this year’s WCR NXT Convention in Houston ! I'm going as the Vice President of Whatcom, Skagit, & Island County. It’s a powerful gathering of real estate leaders from across the country, and I can’t wait to bring back fresh ideas, connections, and inspiration to our local network. Stay tuned for takeaways and behind-the-scenes peeks—this is going to be good. The Women's Council of REALTORS® advances women as professionals and leaders in business, the industry, and the communities we serve, and "When Women Are Present, Everything Changes."

Featured Property: 19379 MORTON RD, Burlington, WA

By Andi Dyer • August 4, 2025
So many possibilities with this 9.9-acre property in a prime location near I-5. The bright and airy rambler features an open floor plan and two primary suites, offering comfort and flexibility. Unique zoning allows for an RV park, and the property currently generates $50,000+ in part-time annual revenue through RV parking, camping, and a 2024 trailer that conveys with the sale and operates as a successful Airbnb rental. The land is beautifully landscaped with gardens, fruit trees, and lush, park-like scenery—creating a private sanctuary that feels far away yet remains close to amenities. Continue to grow the business, expand operations, or simply enjoy the peaceful setting while generating passive income. A rare opportunity!

Join the Race for the Underdogs!

By Andi Dyer • August 4, 2025
JOIN THE PACK THIS AUGUST Lace up those sneakers and leash up your sense of adventure— the very first Race for the Underdogs 5K is happening at stunning Lake Padden in Bellingham on Sunday, August 17 at 8:30 AM . This heartwarming event benefits the incredible work of Happy Tails Happy Homes (HTHH) , a Whatcom County nonprofit that gives second chances to the animals who need it most. 🐶 Who You're Racing For HTHH isn’t your typical rescue. We’re a volunteer-powered, foster-based organization with no shelter, no offices, and no paid staff —just a deep love for the underdogs. That means every dollar raised goes straight to the animals, many of whom arrive with medical or behavioral challenges. We believe every tail deserves a happy ending. 🏃‍♀️ About the Race This scenic 5K trail loop winds counterclockwise around Lake Padden on soft grass and wooded paths. Starting near the picnic shelter at the east entrance, the route is mostly flat with a few rolling hills and one short uphill stretch through the trees on the lake’s southwest side. It’s peaceful, pet-friendly, and just the right mix of nature and challenge. 📍 Getting There From I-5 Northbound (Seattle): Take Exit 246 (N. Lake Samish), head left at the stop sign, drive 2.5 miles to the East Lake Padden entrance, and follow the HTHH signs to the playground. From I-5 Southbound (Bellingham): Take Exit 252 (Samish Way), go left over the freeway, right onto Samish Way, and continue 2.5 miles to the second Lake Padden sign (East entrance). Turn right and follow signs to the playground area.
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