Brokers Expect Only A Modest Holiday Slowdown

Andi • November 13, 2015

KIRKLAND, Washington (November 5, 2015) – With holidays approaching, real estate brokers usually expect a slowdown as buyers and sellers shift their attention elsewhere. “This year is different,” say some industry leaders.

“Today we have one of the best markets we’ve ever seen for sellers,” observed Ken Anderson, managing broker and owner at Coldwell Banker Evergreen in Olympia. “Buyers are still surging to the market and inventory is low. It’s a very good time to sell. Owners who are eager to make the next move don’t have to wait six months or until spring to act,” added Anderson, a former board member at Northwest Multiple Listing Service.

Newly released MLS figures for October show pending sales are up 7.8 percent from a year ago, rising from 8,643 transactions to 9,317. Nearly half the counties in its service area reported double-digit gains in the number of mutually accepted offers. For the four-county Puget Sound region encompassing King, Kitsap, Pierce and Snohomish counties, Northwest MLS members tallied 6,977 pending sales, the highest October volume in a decade.

For 19 of the 23 counties in the latest MLS report the number of pending sales surpassed the number of new listings added to inventory. System-wide there were 8,094 new listings that came on the market during October, about the same as 12 months ago when members added 8,102 listings. With those additions (the fewest monthly total since February) inventory at the end of the month stood at 18,068 listings, well below the year-ago total of 23,501 for a 23.1 percent year-over-year drop.

Closed sales rose 7 percent from a year ago, increasing from 7,257 to 7,769. Last month’s total slipped below 8,000 closings for the first time since April, with some brokers citing inadequate inventory as a factor.

“Given the severe shortage of homes for sale, I’m not surprised to see that both pending and closed sales slowed down last month,” said OB Jacobi, president of Windermere Real Estate.

Broker Mike Gain agreed. “If we just had more homes to sell the number of closed units would have increased even more during October,” he stated. “Selling more homes at a faster rate than we are replenishing supply shows just how good the local real estate market really is,” remarked Gain, CEO and president of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Northwest Real Estate.

The MLS reported 2.33 months of supply area-wide, well below the 4-to-6 months figure many in the industry say indicates a balanced market. The months of supply figure has not been above three months since February when the figure was 3.56.

Both King and Snohomish counties had less than two months of supply. The most acute shortages are in King County with only 1.29 months of supply; Snohomish has 1.91 months of supply.

Commenting on the gap between supply and demand, MLS director George Moorhead said, “This is not sustainable and will create a market condition where buyers will overpay for a home.” Moorhead, the designated broker at Bentley Properties, also commented on bidding wars. “Multiple offers are now being seen in outlying areas as buyers look farther out just to find a home that is a perfect fit while sacrificing distance to work and services.” Good schools remain the highest sought-after criteria, he added.

Even with inventory shortages in some areas, strong open house traffic is expected for the coming weekend, thanks to the bye on the Seattle Seahawks schedule, suggested MLS director Frank Wilson. “A weekend without a Hawks game is good news for real estate brokers and sellers who hold open houses on Sundays, commented Wilson, the branch managing broker at John L. Scott, Inc. in Poulsbo.

Open houses for new listings draw decent traffic, Wilson reported, adding. “New listings get picked through pretty quickly, and homes that are correctly priced are selling within days, with multiple offers.” He also said homes that have been on the market for more than 60 days have little traffic unless they have had a price reduction. “Some sellers are tending to overprice their homes due to all the hype.”

Gain noted the Seattle area’s home price gains are outpacing the nation’s, earning the city No. 1 ranking on a recently released list of the hottest single-family housing markets in the U.S. He credits strong demand, rising prices, low interest rates and the area’s healthy economic conditions as reasons for the strength.

“We will experience a hot housing market over the winter months,” predicts J. Lennox Scott, chairman and CEO of John L. Scott, who also expects 2016 to be “another fantastic year for sales activity.” Noting home sales activity is historically lower during this time of year, Scott believes activity this winter will be “red hot” in price ranges where inventory is low. He believes continued low interest rates and job growth will ratchet up demand as spring approaches.

Despite general optimism among Northwest MLS leaders, some pullback is anticipated.

Jacobi, who last month commented on the market being on the cusp of a slowdown, faults scarce inventory. “I expect this trend (of slower pending and closed sales) will likely continue through the end of the year due to the lack of available inventory for buyers.” Jacobi also said appreciation may start to slow over the winter months, adding, “but overall the housing market continues to benefit from our thriving local economy.”

Diedre Haines, principal managing broker-South Snohomish County for Coldwell Banker Bain, said they are noticing some slowdown, but “not as much as we’ve seen historically.”

“There remains a lot of frustration with multiple offers and getting transactions to actually make it to closing,” reported Haines, a past chairman of the Northwest MLS board. She attributes failed sales to several factors including low appraisals, financing issues, and an increase in sellers and buyers not being able to come to terms on inspections.

Prices on last month’s closed sales jumped nearly 9.7 percent from a year ago. Area-wide the median price for sales of single family homes and condos that closed during October was $318,000. That compares to a price of $290,000 for the same month a year ago.

For single family homes (excluding condos), year-over-year prices increased nearly 8.4 percent, rising from $299,950 to $325,000. In King County, the median price for a single family home was $480,000, rising 7.3 percent from the year-ago figure of $447,250, but dropping from September’s median price of $490,250.

“Appreciation for most of Snohomish County has continued, but not exorbitantly,” noted Haines. Prices in that county are up more than 5.8 percent from a year ago. “Modest gains in value are in reality much better for the market than the rapid gains we’ve seen in the past. For us, this means no sign of a growing bubble.”

The MLS reported strong sales in the condo segment, with both the volume and prices rising by double digits. Area-wide, closed sales rose 13.2 percent, from 990 units to 1,121. Prices surged 16.2 percent, jumping from $228,500 a year ago to last month’s median price of $265,500.

Condo inventory is also depleted with the number of active listings down nearly 26 percent from a year ago. MLS figures show only about 1.6 months of inventory area-wide; in King County there is less than 1.2 months of supply.

Looking ahead, Gain and many of his colleagues expect the area’s housing market will continue on a “gradual upward trend” into 2016. “As rents continue to rise, it makes buying a home more affordable than renting in many cases. It also insures that the monthly payment will remain the same as rents continue to escalate,” he stated, adding “Buying a home today is simply a smart decision for most who have the ability and resources to do so.”

Wilson said low inventory in areas like Kitsap County where his office is based will pose challenges. Inventory in that county is down nearly 30 percent from a year ago, while prices climbed more than 5.7 percent. “Some buyers are feeling beat up having to put in multiple offers or offer more than they are comfortable with,” he reported. Nevertheless, “buyers realize as we move into 2016 both prices and interest rates are likely to move upward,” he noted, adding, “We are anticipating a difficult spring market. The numbers are lining up for double-digit price increases in the first half of 2016.”

Northwest Multiple Listing Service, owned by its member real estate firms, is the largest full-service MLS in the Northwest. Its membership includes more than 23,000 real estate brokers. The organization, based in Kirkland, Wash., currently serves 23 counties in Washington state.

 

How to Think About Regret When Deciding Whether to Sell Your Home

By Andi Dyer • February 16, 2026
Regret is one of the strongest forces shaping seller decisions, even though it’s rarely discussed openly. People worry about selling too early, selling too late, selling for the “wrong” price, or missing out on something better. The fear of regret often keeps people stuck, not because they don’t want to move, but because they want to avoid feeling foolish later. Why regret feels so powerful in real estate Homes carry high stakes. They’re financial assets, emotional anchors, and symbols of stability all at once. That combination makes decisions feel permanent, even when they’re not. Regret thrives in uncertainty. When outcomes are unknown, the mind fills in worst-case scenarios. The two kinds of regret sellers worry about Most sellers are caught between two fears: Regret of action: “What if I sell and wish I hadn’t?” Regret of inaction: “What if I wait and wish I’d sold earlier?” Trying to eliminate regret entirely usually leads to paralysis. Why clarity reduces regret more than timing Regret tends to be lower when decisions are made with intention and information, even if the outcome isn’t perfect. Sellers who understand their reasons, explored alternatives, and chose a path aligned with their values tend to feel steadier afterward. Sellers who rushed or avoided the decision often replay it more. How to work with regret instead of against it Instead of asking how to avoid regret, it can help to ask: Which decision would I feel at peace explaining to myself later? What choice aligns with how I want this chapter to close? Those questions anchor decisions in meaning rather than prediction. A planning-forward reframe There is no version of selling that removes all uncertainty. But there are versions that feel honest, thoughtful, and grounded. When you focus on clarity over certainty, regret tends to lose its grip. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Andi Dyer is a Bellingham-based real estate broker with RE/MAX Whatcom County, specializing in helping longtime homeowners and sellers make confident, well-informed decisions. With a calm, data-driven approach and strong negotiation expertise, Andi focuses on protecting equity, reducing stress, and guiding sellers through the process with clarity and care. 📍 Serving Bellingham and all of Whatcom County 📞 Call or text: 360 • 734 • 6479 📧 Email: andi [at] andidyer [dot] com If fear of making the wrong move is what’s holding you back, starting with clarity often helps: 👉 Start with a low-pressure home value and seller planning tool here: https://www.andidyerrealestate.com/seller/valuation/ Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AndiDyer Re a ltor.com: https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/andi-dyer Homes.com: https://www.homes.com/real-estate-agents/andi-dyer Google Business Profile: https://g.page/andi-dyer-real-estate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndiDyerRealEstate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andi.dyer

What Sellers Mean When They Say “I’m Not Ready” (and What They Usually Need Instead)

By Andi Dyer • February 15, 2026
“I’m not ready” is one of the most common things sellers say. It’s also one of the least specific. Often, it doesn’t mean a lack of desire to sell. It means something else hasn’t been resolved yet. Understanding what “not ready” really points to can help sellers move forward without feeling rushed. The difference between readiness and clarity Readiness implies action. Clarity comes first. Many sellers aren’t lacking readiness. They’re lacking clarity about timing, finances, logistics, or emotional readiness for change. Until those pieces are understood, action feels premature. Common reasons sellers feel stuck Some sellers worry about where they’ll go next. Others worry about whether selling will actually simplify life or just exchange one set of problems for another. For longtime homeowners, there’s often an added layer of attachment to place, neighbors, and identity. None of these concerns are obstacles. They’re signals that planning needs to be more thoughtful, not faster. Why pressure backfires External pressure, from the market or from well-meaning friends, often makes sellers dig in rather than move forward. Pressure creates resistance. Clarity creates momentum. This is why the most productive conversations aren’t about convincing someone to sell. They’re about helping someone understand their options. How readiness tends to arrive Readiness usually shows up quietly, after enough questions have been answered. Sellers suddenly feel less reactive and more grounded. The decision stops feeling heavy. That shift rarely comes from waiting alone. It comes from information that removes uncertainty. How to Evaluate an Offer Beyond the Price When an offer arrives, most sellers look at the price first. That’s natural. But price alone rarely tells the full story of how strong an offer actually is. Some of the most stressful transactions happen when sellers accept the highest number without understanding the structure underneath it. Why price can be misleading A high price paired with fragile terms can be riskier than a slightly lower price with solid structure. Financing type, contingencies, timelines, and buyer flexibility all affect how likely the deal is to close cleanly. Price is a headline. Terms are the substance. What sellers should look at next After price, sellers should examine how the buyer is financing the purchase, how many contingencies exist, and how tight the timelines are. A well-qualified buyer with reasonable contingencies often represents a smoother path forward than an aggressive offer with multiple escape routes. The goal isn’t to eliminate risk entirely. It’s to choose which risks you’re comfortable carrying. Why certainty often has real value Certainty reduces stress. It also reduces the chance of renegotiation later. Sellers who prioritize certainty often find the process more predictable, even if the final number isn’t the absolute maximum possible. Predictability is undervalued until something goes wrong. How experience helps decode offers Understanding how offers typically play out over time matters more than reading them at face value. Some terms look harmless early on but become leverage points later. Others seem restrictive but rarely cause issues. This is where context and experience protect outcomes. A planning-forward reframe Instead of asking, “Which offer is highest?” ask: “Which offer gives me the best balance of value, certainty, and control?” That question leads to calmer decisions and cleaner closings. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Andi Dyer is a Bellingham-based real estate broker with RE/MAX Whatcom County, specializing in helping longtime homeowners and sellers make confident, well-informed decisions. With a calm, data-driven approach and strong negotiation expertise, Andi focuses on protecting equity, reducing stress, and guiding sellers through the process with clarity and care. 📍 Serving Bellingham and all of Whatcom County 📞 Call or text: 360 • 734 • 6479 📧 Email: andi [at] andidyer [dot] com If you want help evaluating offers with more than just the price in mind, start here: 👉 Start with a low-pressure home value and seller planning tool here: https://www.andidyerrealestate.com/seller/valuation/ Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AndiDyer Realtor.com: https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/andi-dyer Homes.com: https://www.homes.com/real-estate-agents/andi-dyer Google Business Profile: https://g.page/andi-dyer-real-estate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndiDyerRealEstate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andi.dyer

How to Know When You’re Emotionally Ready to Sell Your Bellingham Home

By Andi Dyer • February 14, 2026
This is a question many sellers don’t ask out loud, but it quietly shapes everything else. People often focus on market timing, interest rates, or pricing strategy, when the real hesitation lives somewhere else entirely. You might be financially ready. You might even be logically ready. But emotional readiness is different, and ignoring it can make an otherwise solid plan feel exhausting or rushed. Why this question is harder than it sounds Selling a home isn’t just a transaction. It’s a transition. Even when the move is positive, it often involves letting go of routines, memories, and a sense of identity tied to a place. That’s why some sellers feel unsettled even when the numbers work. They may second-guess decisions, feel defensive about feedback, or rush to resolve uncertainty just to “get it over with.” Those reactions aren’t signs that you shouldn’t sell. They’re signs that the emotional side of the decision hasn’t had time to catch up with the practical side. Emotional readiness doesn’t mean feeling certain A common misconception is that being ready means feeling confident and decisive all the time. In reality, many sellers feel a mix of relief, sadness, excitement, and doubt all at once.  Emotional readiness is less about certainty and more about capacity. It’s about whether you feel able to engage in the process without it consuming you. Questions that often signal readiness include: Can I hear buyer feedback without taking it personally? Am I open to adjusting plans if new information comes in? Do I feel rushed by external pressure, or supported by my own timeline? You don’t need perfect answers. You just need awareness. Why timing without readiness creates friction When sellers move forward before they’re emotionally ready, small issues tend to feel big. A slow week of showings can trigger anxiety. An inspection report can feel like a judgment. A negotiation can feel confrontational instead of procedural. None of this means the sale is wrong. It means the pace may be off. Slowing down earlier often prevents stress later. What readiness can look like in practice Emotionally ready sellers don’t necessarily feel detached. They feel grounded. They can hold both attachment to the home and curiosity about what comes next. They’re more likely to approach decisions as choices rather than ultimatums. That mindset creates flexibility, which tends to lead to better outcomes. A planning-forward reframe Instead of asking, “Am I ready to sell?” a gentler question is: “What would help me feel steadier before I start?” Sometimes the answer is time. Sometimes it’s information. Sometimes it’s simply knowing you’re not locked into a decision the moment you ask questions. That awareness alone can make the process feel far more manageable. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Andi Dyer is a Bellingham-based real estate broker with RE/MAX Whatcom County, specializing in helping longtime homeowners and sellers make confident, well-informed decisions. With a calm, data-driven approach and strong negotiation expertise, Andi focuses on protecting equity, reducing stress, and guiding sellers through the process with clarity and care. 📍 Serving Bellingham and all of Whatcom County 📞 Call or text: 360 • 734 • 6479 📧 Email: andi [at] andidyer [dot] com If you’re thinking about selling but want space to explore the idea without pressure, start here: 👉 Start with a low-pressure home value and seller planning tool here: https://www.andidyerrealestate.com/seller/valuation/ Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AndiDyer Rea l tor.com: https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/andi-dyer Homes.com: https://www.homes.com/real-estate-agents/andi-dyer Google Business Profile: https://g.page/andi-dyer-real-estate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndiDyerRealEstate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andi.dyer

Why Downsizing Rarely Feels Linear (and Why That’s Normal)

By Andi Dyer • February 13, 2026
Many sellers imagine downsizing as a straightforward process. Decide to move. Sort belongings. Sell the house. Buy something smaller. Done. In reality, downsizing almost never unfolds in a straight line. It loops, pauses, speeds up, and slows down again. That unpredictability is normal. Why expectations don’t match reality Downsizing combines practical decisions with emotional ones. You’re not just choosing a smaller home. You’re deciding what to keep, what to release, and what version of life you’re stepping into next. Those decisions don’t happen all at once. They surface in waves. How emotional processing affects momentum Some weeks, sellers feel energized and decisive. Other weeks, they feel stuck or sentimental. This fluctuation can feel frustrating if you expect steady progress. In reality, emotional processing often moves ahead of logistical readiness. Giving yourself permission to pause prevents burnout. Why comparison can slow things down Comparing your downsizing journey to someone else’s can create unnecessary pressure. Everyone’s timeline, family structure, health, and priorities are different. What looks “fast” from the outside may have involved years of internal preparation. How to keep moving without forcing it The goal isn’t constant action. It’s forward motion that feels sustainable. Small steps matter. One room. One category. One conversation. Momentum builds when decisions feel respectful, not rushed. A planning-forward reframe Instead of asking, “Why isn’t this moving faster?” try asking: “What part of this process needs more time right now?” Listening to that answer often keeps the whole process healthier. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Andi Dyer is a Bellingham-based real estate broker with RE/MAX Whatcom County, specializing in helping longtime homeowners and sellers make confident, well-informed decisions. With a calm, data-driven approach and strong negotiation expertise, Andi focuses on protecting equity, reducing stress, and guiding sellers through the process with clarity and care. 📍 Serving Bellingham and all of Whatcom County 📞 Call or text: 360 • 734 • 6479 📧 Email: andi [at] andidyer [dot] com If downsizing feels slower or more emotional than expected, planning support can help: 👉 Start with a low-pressure home value and seller planning tool here: https://www.andidyerrealestate.com/seller/valuation/ Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AndiDyer Realtor.com: https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/andi-dyer Homes.com: https://www.homes.com/real-estate-agents/andi-dyer Google Business Profile: https://g.page/andi-dyer-real-estate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndiDyerRealEstate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andi.dyer

Why Downsizing Is Often More Emotional Than Financial for Bellingham Sellers

By Andi Dyer • February 12, 2026
Many sellers approach downsizing as a math problem. How much equity will I unlock? What will my monthly costs look like? Will I have enough space? Those questions matter, but they’re rarely the ones that make downsizing hard. What surprises most sellers is that downsizing is often less about square footage and more about identity. Why downsizing feels heavier than expected A longtime home often represents more than shelter. It holds routines, memories, and a sense of self that developed over years. Even when a smaller home makes perfect sense financially, the emotional weight of letting go can feel disproportionate. This disconnect is confusing. Sellers may wonder why they feel hesitant when the plan is clearly “smart.” The answer is that emotions don’t operate on spreadsheets. The difference between wanting simpler and feeling ready Many homeowners want less maintenance, fewer stairs, or a more manageable layout. Wanting simplicity is common. Feeling ready to release space is something else entirely. Downsizing asks you to decide what parts of your life take up physical room. That can stir grief, relief, guilt, and excitement all at once. None of those feelings mean you’re making the wrong decision. Why rushing the downsizing process backfires When sellers rush downsizing decisions, they often regret how they moved more than that they moved. Decisions made under time pressure tend to feel harsher and less intentional. Giving yourself time to think, plan, and emotionally adjust usually leads to better housing choices and a calmer transition. A planning-forward reframe Instead of asking, “Is it time to downsize?” try asking: “What kind of space do I want my next chapter to support?” That question shifts the focus from loss to design, which tends to feel far more empowering. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Andi Dyer is a Bellingham-based real estate broker with RE/MAX Whatcom County, specializing in helping longtime homeowners and sellers make confident, well-informed decisions. With a calm, data-driven approach and strong negotiation expertise, Andi focuses on protecting equity, reducing stress, and guiding sellers through the process with clarity and care. 📍 Serving Bellingham and all of Whatcom County 📞 Call or text: 360 • 734 • 6479 📧 Email: andi [at] andidyer [dot] com If you’re thinking about downsizing and want space to plan without pressure, start here: 👉 Start with a low-pressure home value and seller planning tool here: https://www.andidyerrealestate.com/seller/valuation/ Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AndiDyer Rea l tor.com: https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/andi-dyer Homes.com: https://www.homes.com/real-estate-agents/andi-dyer Google Business Profile: https://g.page/andi-dyer-real-estate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndiDyerRealEstate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andi.dyer

Why a “Good Enough” Sale Is Often the Healthiest Outcome

By Andi Dyer • February 11, 2026
Many sellers hold an unspoken standard in their minds: the sale should be fast, easy, and at the top of the market. When reality doesn’t match that ideal, disappointment can creep in, even if the outcome is objectively solid. The idea that a sale must be exceptional to be worthwhile can quietly undermine satisfaction. Why expectations escalate during selling Selling is a high-stakes moment. Stories circulate about bidding wars, waived contingencies, and record prices. Those stories become benchmarks, even when they don’t match your home, timing, or goals. When expectations inflate, anything less than extraordinary can feel like failure. What a “good enough” sale actually provides A good-enough sale achieves what matters most: it allows you to move forward. It protects your financial stability, supports your next chapter, and closes a door that was ready to be closed. It may include compromises, but those compromises are often the cost of momentum and peace of mind. Why chasing perfection increases stress Trying to engineer the perfect outcome often prolongs the process. Sellers may delay decisions, resist reasonable offers, or over-optimize every detail. The emotional cost of that pursuit can outweigh the marginal financial gain. Peace is rarely found in perfection. It’s found in alignment. How perspective shapes satisfaction Sellers who evaluate success based on their broader life goals tend to feel more content than those who measure success against hypothetical alternatives. When the sale supports your well-being, simplicity, or flexibility, it has done its job. A planning-forward reframe Instead of asking, “Could this have been better?” ask: “Does this outcome support the life I want to live now?” That question reframes success in a way that lasts. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Andi Dyer is a Bellingham-based real estate broker with RE/MAX Whatcom County, specializing in helping longtime homeowners and sellers make confident, well-informed decisions. With a calm, data-driven approach and strong negotiation expertise, Andi focuses on protecting equity, reducing stress, and guiding sellers through the process with clarity and care. 📍 Serving Bellingham and all of Whatcom County 📞 Call or text: 360 • 734 • 6479 📧 Email: andi [at] andidyer [dot] com If you’re trying to define what a “successful” sale looks like for you, a planning conversation can help: 👉 Start with a low-pressure home value and seller planning tool here: https://www.andidyerrealestate.com/seller/valuation/ Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AndiDyer Rea l tor.com: https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/andi-dyer Homes.com: https://www.homes.com/real-estate-agents/andi-dyer Google Business Profile: https://g.page/andi-dyer-real-estate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndiDyerRealEstate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andi.dyer

Why Selling a Home Can Feel Like a Loss Even When It’s the Right Decision

By Andi Dyer • February 10, 2026
Many sellers are surprised by a sense of loss that surfaces once they decide to sell, even when the decision is thoughtful, financially sound, and aligned with what they want next. This reaction can be confusing. After all, nothing bad happened. In many cases, selling is a positive move. The feeling doesn’t mean you’re making a mistake. It means you’re human. Why loss shows up even in “good” transitions Homes hold more than memories. They hold versions of ourselves. The person you were when you moved in. The routines you built. The chapter of life that unfolded there. Letting go of the home often means letting go of that version of life, even if you’re ready for something new. That’s why the sense of loss often appears after the decision is made. The mind has caught up, but the emotional system is still processing what’s ending. Why this feeling doesn’t mean you should stop A common reaction is to interpret grief as a warning sign. Sellers may think, “If this feels sad, maybe I shouldn’t do it.” In reality, grief and readiness often coexist. You can be ready to move forward and still mourn what you’re leaving behind. Trying to eliminate that feeling usually makes it louder. Acknowledging it tends to soften it. How unacknowledged loss affects the sale process When this feeling isn’t recognized, it can show up indirectly. Sellers may become overly sensitive to buyer feedback, resistant to negotiation, or hesitant to make practical decisions that move the sale forward. Recognizing the emotional layer helps prevent it from quietly steering decisions. A healthier way to hold the experience Many sellers find it helpful to think of selling not as erasing a chapter, but as closing it intentionally. You’re not dismissing what the home meant. You’re honoring it by choosing what comes next with clarity. A planning-forward reframe Instead of asking, “Why does this feel hard?” try asking: “What am I letting go of here, and what am I making room for?” That framing allows both truths to exist at the same time. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Andi Dyer is a Bellingham-based real estate broker with RE/MAX Whatcom County, specializing in helping longtime homeowners and sellers make confident, well-informed decisions. With a calm, data-driven approach and strong negotiation expertise, Andi focuses on protecting equity, reducing stress, and guiding sellers through the process with clarity and care. 📍 Serving Bellingham and all of Whatcom County 📞 Call or text: 360 • 734 • 6479 📧 Email: andi [at] andidyer [dot] com If you’re navigating the emotional side of selling and want a steady, thoughtful approach, start here: 👉 Start with a low-pressure home value and seller planning tool here: https://www.andidyerrealestate.com/seller/valuation/ Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AndiDyer Rea l tor.com: https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/andi-dyer Homes.com: https://www.homes.com/real-estate-agents/andi-dyer Google Business Profile: https://g.page/andi-dyer-real-estate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndiDyerRealEstate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andi.dyer

How to Make Peace With an Imperfect Sale

By Andi Dyer • February 9, 2026
Every seller hopes for a clean, easy transaction. In reality, most sales include at least one compromise, one surprise, or one moment that doesn’t go as planned. The difference between a stressful experience and a manageable one often comes down to how sellers frame those imperfections. An imperfect sale is not a failed sale. It’s a human one. Why perfection is an unrealistic benchmark Real estate transactions involve multiple people, systems, timelines, and emotions. Expecting everything to align perfectly sets sellers up for disappointment. Even strong sales include adjustments, negotiations, and moments of uncertainty. Those moments don’t erase the overall success of the outcome. How sellers judge themselves too harshly Many sellers measure success by comparing their experience to idealized stories they’ve heard from others. “My friend sold in three days.” “That house went for way over asking.” These comparisons ignore context and tradeoffs. A sale that supports your goals, even imperfectly, is still a good sale. Why focusing on the outcome matters more than the process The process is where frustration often lives. The outcome is where relief and stability usually show up. Sellers who keep sight of why they sold — reduced stress, simpler living, financial flexibility — tend to feel more at peace with the bumps along the way. Letting go of “could have” thinking “What if” questions are endless. What if you waited. What if you priced differently. What if another buyer appeared. Those questions rarely lead anywhere productive once the sale is complete. Closure comes from acknowledging that decisions were made with the information available at the time. A planning-forward reframe Instead of asking, “Was this perfect?” ask: “Did this move me closer to the life I wanted to create?” That question tends to quiet lingering doubt. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Andi Dyer is a Bellingham-based real estate broker with RE/MAX Whatcom County, specializing in helping longtime homeowners and sellers make confident, well-informed decisions. With a calm, data-driven approach and strong negotiation expertise, Andi focuses on protecting equity, reducing stress, and guiding sellers through the process with clarity and care. 📍 Serving Bellingham and all of Whatcom County 📞 Call or text: 360 • 734 • 6479 📧 Email: andi [at] andidyer [dot] com If you want help keeping perspective during or after a sale, a planning conversation can help: 👉 Start with a low-pressure home value and seller planning tool here: https://www.andidyerrealestate.com/seller/valuation/ Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AndiDyer Rea l tor.com: https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/andi-dyer Homes.com: https://www.homes.com/real-estate-agents/andi-dyer Google Business Profile: https://g.page/andi-dyer-real-estate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndiDyerRealEstate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andi.dyer

Why Selling a Home Often Feels Like Closing a Chapter, Not Just a Transaction

By Andi Dyer • February 8, 2026
Even sellers who are excited about what’s next are often surprised by a sense of finality when selling. It’s not sadness exactly. It’s reflection. Selling a home marks the end of a chapter, whether it was a good one, a hard one, or both. Why this feeling catches people off guard Most people prepare financially and logistically. Few prepare emotionally. The realization that this phase of life is ending often arrives late in the process. That can feel unsettling, even when the decision is right. How memories surface during selling Packing, cleaning, and showing the home often bring up moments you hadn’t thought about in years. These memories don’t mean you’re second-guessing. They mean you’re integrating the experience. Acknowledging that process helps prevent emotional whiplash. Why honoring the chapter matters Sellers who allow themselves to reflect tend to transition more smoothly. They don’t rush past the meaning of the home or dismiss their own feelings. Closure doesn’t require ceremony. It requires recognition. How this awareness affects decisions When sellers recognize the emotional layer, they’re less likely to overreact to small issues or feedback. They approach decisions with more patience and self-compassion. That steadiness often improves outcomes. A planning-forward reframe Instead of asking, “Why does this feel heavier than I expected?” try asking: “What has this home represented in my life, and what am I ready to make room for next?” That question often brings peace. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Andi Dyer is a Bellingham-based real estate broker with RE/MAX Whatcom County, specializing in helping longtime homeowners and sellers make confident, well-informed decisions. With a calm, data-driven approach and strong negotiation expertise, Andi focuses on protecting equity, reducing stress, and guiding sellers through the process with clarity and care. 📍 Serving Bellingham and all of Whatcom County 📞 Call or text: 360 • 734 • 6479 📧 Email: andi [at] andidyer [dot] com If you’re navigating the emotional side of selling and want a steady, thoughtful approach, you can start here: 👉 Start with a low-pressure home value and seller planning tool here: https://www.andidyerrealestate.com/seller/valuation/ Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AndiDyer Rea l tor.com: https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/andi-dyer Homes.com: https://www.homes.com/real-estate-agents/andi-dyer Google Business Profile: https://g.page/andi-dyer-real-estate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndiDyerRealEstate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andi.dyer

How to Decide What to Do With Your Equity After You Sell

By Andi Dyer • February 7, 2026
Equity is often talked about like a number on paper, but once you sell, it becomes something much more tangible. It turns into options, responsibility, and sometimes pressure. Many sellers are surprised by how emotional this stage feels. Why equity decisions feel heavy Equity represents years of work, sacrifice, and patience. Once it’s realized, there’s often a sense that you need to “do something smart” with it right away. That pressure can lead to rushed decisions or unnecessary stress. Common paths sellers consider Some sellers use equity to reduce monthly expenses. Others reinvest, support family, or hold funds while deciding what’s next. None of these paths are inherently right or wrong. What matters is alignment with your priorities and risk tolerance. Why “doing nothing” is sometimes a valid choice Holding equity in a safe place while you think is not wasted time. It’s often how clarity forms. Rushing to redeploy funds can feel productive but may create regret later if decisions aren’t well-considered. The importance of separating advice from obligation Well-meaning people may have strong opinions about what you should do with your equity. Those opinions often reflect their values, not yours. Your equity should support your life, not someone else’s expectations. A planning-forward reframe  Instead of asking, “What should I do with this money?” try asking “What do I want this equity to make easier?” That question tends to lead to calmer, more intentional choices. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Andi Dyer is a Bellingham-based real estate broker with RE/MAX Whatcom County, specializing in helping longtime homeowners and sellers make confident, well-informed decisions. With a calm, data-driven approach and strong negotiation expertise, Andi focuses on protecting equity, reducing stress, and guiding sellers through the process with clarity and care. 📍 Serving Bellingham and all of Whatcom County 📞 Call or text: 360 • 734 • 6479 📧 Email: andi [at] andidyer [dot] com If you’re thinking ahead about how a sale could support your next chapter, start here: 👉 Start with a low-pressure home value and seller planning tool here: https://www.andidyerrealestate.com/seller/valuation/ Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AndiDyer Rea l tor.com: https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/andi-dyer Homes.com: https://www.homes.com/real-estate-agents/andi-dyer Google Business Profile: https://g.page/andi-dyer-real-estate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndiDyerRealEstate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andi.dyer
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