Buying Step 1: Starting Your Home Buying Journey

Andi Dyer • April 28, 2025

Step 1

First off, congratulations on your decision to buy a home and put down roots! It’s a big step and you’re starting off on the right foot by interviewing several agents before picking one to represent you. Finding a Real Estate Agent is an incredibly important part of the process.

 

If you don’t know where to start, ask friends and family for referrals to agents they’ve used and loved. Even then though it’s still important to meet several agents and pick the agent who is going to be best for you. Then reach out to the Agent and set up an appointment. Take note of how quickly they get back to you. If they don’t return your email or phone call within 24 hours, I’d move on and find someone else. In real estate, getting back to someone quickly, particularly when you’re negotiating a deal, is crucial. If your agent can’t be bothered to get back to you quickly what else are they not going to bother to do?

 

When it comes to the actual meeting, if convenient for you, we recommend meeting the agent at their office to see what kind of environment they work in. Is their office professional? Is the receptionist welcoming as this can say a lot about the office in general? Is the agent on time to meet you?


Questions to Ask Before Hiring a REALTOR®


Buying a home isn’t just a transaction — it’s a milestone. Whether it’s your first home or your 

forever home, we’re here to educate, protect, and advocate for you every step of the way. 


🔑 PROVEN SUCCESS AT A GLANCE

250+ Successful Closings

18+ Years of Combined Experience

Master Certified Negotiation Experts (Top 1%)

Certified Homebuyer Educators (WA Housing Finance Commission)

100% Client Satisfaction (Ask for Testimonials!)


1. What do you know about me?

We take the time to learn about your goals, budget, lifestyle, and preferences. You're not just another transaction—you’re a future homeowner whose story matters.


2. Are you a full-time REALTOR®?

Yes. Real estate is our full-time profession and passion. Our availability and responsiveness reflect our commitment.


3. How long have you been in real estate?

Together we bring over 18 years of combined experience with 250+ homes closed. We’re second-generation REALTORS® with the expertise to guide you through any market.


4. How many clients have you worked with this year?

We work with a limited number of clients at a time to ensure personalized, high-touch service from beginning to end.


5. What tools do you have especially for first-time home buyers?

We provide comprehensive buyer guides, checklists, lender referrals, and access to educational classes that help you understand the entire process.


6. What areas do you primarily work?

We specialize in Whatcom and Skagit Counties. We live here, work here, and know these markets intimately.


7. What kind of support and communication should I expect during home tours?

You’ll receive prompt, thoughtful communication and hands-on support. With two of us available, someone is always reachable when you need answers fast.


8. Are you willing to work with me if I find a home FSBO?

Absolutely. We’ll represent your interests, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure you're protected through every step of the FSBO process.


9. What strategies do you use in competitive markets?

We use data-driven analysis, escalation clauses, seller-intel tactics, and compelling offer presentations to give you the edge.


10. How do you help me understand and navigate financing?

We connect you with top local lenders and help you compare options, rates, and programs—including down payment assistance.


11. What happens if I decide to back out of a purchase?

We’ll walk you through contingencies, timelines, and implications, ensuring you're never caught off-guard.


12. How do you negotiate deals?

As Master Certified Negotiation Experts, we craft win-win deals while fiercely protecting your interests. Every negotiation is strategic and thoughtful.


13. Do you attend the home inspection?

Yes. We’re there to listen, ask the right questions, and help you decide what’s worth pursuing in the inspection response.


14. Do you handle the inspection negotiations?

Yes. We consult with vendors to gather data, and present solutions in a compelling, professional format that makes sense to sellers.


15. What support do you provide in the final stages before closing?

We attend your final walkthrough, confirm terms are met, and ensure your new home is move-in ready.


16. How do you feel about dual agency?

We avoid dual agency. Our loyalty is 100% to you, always.


17. What qualities differentiate you from other REALTORS®?

We’re educators, strategists, and fierce advocates. Our dual-agent support, proven track record, and community knowledge give you the edge.


“We were overwhelmed as first-time buyers, but Andi and Katie made it feel seamless. We found our dream home and felt supported the entire way.” – D.S.


Our Proven 5-Phase Buyer Process:

1. Buyer Consultation & Strategy

2. Lender Matching & Budget Clarity

3. Touring & Market Education

4. Offer Structuring & Negotiation

5. Inspection, Walkthrough & Key Delivery


Questions? Contact us at andi@andidyer(dot)com or 360-734-6479.

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𝗚𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗦𝗵𝘂𝘁𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺

By Andi Dyer • October 7, 2025
The federal government shutdown that began today is already impacting homebuyers, sellers, and renters in Whatcom County, according to local Managing Broker and REALTOR® Andi Dyer of RE/MAX Whatcom County. One of the most significant immediate effects is the lapse of authority for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to issue new policies. This could delay closings for properties in flood-prone areas such as Birch Bay and the Nooksack Valley. Existing NFIP policies remain valid for 30 days, but uncertainty grows the longer the shutdown continues. Other disruptions include: IRS income verification delays, which could slow mortgage approvals. FHA and VA loan processing backlogs, affecting many first-time buyers and veterans. Potential funding slowdowns for federal housing programs, which may ripple into rental markets. This doesn’t mean real estate transactions stop—it means they may take longer. Real estate doesn’t stop during a shutdown—it just gets more complicated. My job is to help people cut through the red tape and keep their transactions on track. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) is urging Congress to reauthorize NFIP and pass a funding agreement to reduce uncertainty in the housing market.
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