How to Find the Right Person to Sell Your House

Andi • September 8, 2020

Your guide to hiring the listing agent who can set you up for success.

Your home is where you’ve lived and loved, where you’ve laughed and cried, where you’ve huddled and snuggled. You’re the pea, your home is the pod. And you’ve been through a lot together.

Now that it’s time to put it on the market, you’re likely experiencing some sadness, plus plenty of anxiety. Because really: How often does your future depend on selling your past? If you’re a little overwhelmed, we don’t blame you.

But there’s also good news: You don’t have to go it alone. 

A listing agent has your back when it comes to the financials, like setting a listing price and marketing, staging, and making repairs to your house. He or she can also help you navigate more personal issues, such as your timeline, and what you’re hoping to achieve with the sale.  

For all of those reasons, it’s important to find an expert who is right for you and your specific situation, and who can help you get what you want. Here’s how.

 

Know What a Listing Agent Can Do for You

Before you start interviewing prospective agents, have a clear sense of  what you want to get out of the selling process. When so much money is on the table, it’s crucial to know what your goals are, so that you can find an agent who really speaks to them.

Then, it helps to understand what a listing agent does (other than sell your most valuable asset — no big deal).

The listing agent will: 

  • Work with you to price your home
  • Market your home (we’re talking pretty pictures, social media promo, cute staging — the works)
  • Negotiate with home buyers
  • Usher the home sale through inspection and closing

Now, let’s break all of that down . . .

Pricing your home.  This is the BIG question, right? How do I set the price? The short answer is you’ll need to trust your agent to recommend a smart listing price. 

So how can you tell whether an agent — a relative stranger to you — is choosing the best price for your home? You need to do two things:

  1. Know, generally speaking, what your property is worth . Do your own research on the prices of local comps, (but understand the  limits of online property sites ). Run your info by your agent for an informed perspective. 
  2. Ask the agent for pricing information on homes he or she has recently sold.  Specifically, what the differences were between their listing prices and how much the homes ultimately sold for. 

When it comes to the agent’s pricing history, you’re looking for accuracy. Anyone could suggest a high price for your home, knowing it’s what you’d like to hear. But nobody (especially you) wants to have a house languish on the market, or to reduce a price repeatedly.

Marketing your home.  The listing agent will also get the word out that your house is on the market, using a combination of old-school (but powerful) marketing techniques — such as direct mail, signage, and open houses — and the modern methods we know and love, like social media. Savvy agents will post pics of your house on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and any other platform that can get likes  plus  the attention of other real estate agents who can bring buyers to the table.

Negotiating with buyers.  When offers start pouring in, your agent will negotiate with prospective buyers on not only the sale price but also on what contingencies (aka special circumstances) are attached to the contract. As with any negotiation, there could be some stressful, fraught moments with the buyers. You’ll want an agent who can step up for you, and who has a negotiation style that you’re comfortable with.

Closing the sale.  Once you’ve signed a purchase agreement with a buyer (woo-hoo!), your agent will help you navigate the sale’s remaining steps. This includes negotiating home repair requests post inspection and dealing with any last-minute surprises before closing.

The average listing agent does all of the above. A  great  listing agent does all of the above, while also inspiring your confidence — that they’re getting the best price for you, and that they’re representing you and your home in the best possible light. 

So, let’s talk about how to find and hire  that  kind of agent.

 

Ask These Questions to Find a Great Listing Agent

Here, time is on your side. Aim to hire a listing agent six to eight weeks — or more — before the day your house is listed on the market (also known as the “go-live date”). You’ll be grateful for the cushion, especially if the agent you ultimately hire recommends that you make repairs or upgrades to your home before it’s listed. (That wouldn’t be unusual.)

To find prospective agents, start with your network. Ask friends, relatives, neighbors, and colleagues for recommendations. Word-of-mouth endorsements, as always, can be priceless.

You can also turn to another trusted friend: the internet. Property websites such as  realtor.com®  have directories that let you search for agents in your area. These databases can clue you into important details, such as an agent’s years of experience, number of homes sold, and past client reviews.

Three out of four home sellers only contact one candidate before picking their listing agent, according to a NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS ®  report. While that may be the norm, it’s smarter to shop around. Interview at least three agents before deciding on the one you want to work with. 

During the interviews, ask these questions to help assess whether an agent is the right fit you:

  • Do you work as an agent full-time?  Like most professions, experience is no guarantee of skill. That said, much of real estate is learned on the job.
  • How long have you been in the business?  Generally, the more experience an agent has, the more they’re tapped into the local market. 
  • How many homes have you sold in my neighborhood in the past year?  You don’t need to find an agent who specializes only in your community, though that would be ideal. You do want someone who has recently sold at least a few homes in your neighborhood and knows the local and hyper-local inventory.
  • What’s the typical price range of homes you sell?  Most agents work across multiple price points, but you don’t want an agent who has never sold a home in your range.
  • What’s your fee?  An agent should be able to articulate their value and explain their commission rate.  
  • How will you market my home?  You don’t want to hire someone who’s just going to stick a For Sale sign in your yard and call it a day. The agent should present a comprehensive marketing plan for your listing — this should include strategies for staging your home, taking professional photographs of your home, promoting the listing on social media, marketing to other brokers, scheduling open houses, etc.
  • Will I be working with you directly, or with a team?  Some agents lead or work as part of a sales team. The lead listing agent shares client responsibilities with other agents. Where one agent may handle private showings for a listing, another may host open houses. A benefit is that for the same fee, you get many people working for you. But if you want the sole attention of the listing agent, you may want to stick to a one-on-one arrangement. 
  • Will you provide one-on-one service?  Whether you’re working with one agent or a team, ask how responsive they can be to you, your timeline, and your goals.
  • How long on average are your listings on market?   Your average sold-to-list price?  This can help you suss out whether the agent is a solid marketer and negotiator. These are real estate stats that the agent can pull from your local multiple listing service, or MLS. 

The bottom-line: It’s in your best interest to pick an agent who understands your goals, fits your personality, and can get your home sold for top dollar. When you meet someone who can offer all of the above, congratulations — you’ve found your listing agent.

 

First Thing: Know What You’re Signing up For

Now that you know what you’re getting when you find the right listing agent, let’s make sure you know what you’re committing to when you sign that agent’s “representation agreement.”

The most common type of representation agreement is the exclusive right-to-sell agreement — a legally binding contract that states you’re going to use that agent to sell your house. Under this agreement, you’re giving the agent (and the agent’s brokerage) the right to sell the home for a mutually agreed-upon time period and compensation. IOW: You get peace of mind that you have a dedicated agent; the agent gets peace of mind that you’re only using their services. Other common terms include the agent’s duties to you, like marketing, and a dispute resolution plan.

There are other types of representation agreements, where agents don’t have exclusive rights to sell the property — meaning multiple agents can try to sell the home and compete for the commission. However, when agents know a listing is exclusively theirs, they’re fully invested in selling the property (which, again, should also give you peace of mind).

Every contract has an expiration date, but the length of the contract can vary. Some are three-months; others six months. It all depends on what you and the agent agree upon. If the contract expires before your house is sold, you can re-list your home with another agent. 

Of course, there’s a chance you sign an exclusive listing agreement but just aren’t satisfied with the job your agent is doing. To protect yourself, make sure the representation agreement has a cancellation or termination clause that lets you void the contract before the expiration date without any financial penalty.

 

Understand How a Listing Agent Gets Paid

So  . . . at the end of the day, how do listing agents get compensated for their work? 

Real estate commissions — including the listing agent’s commission — are typically charged as a percentage of the home’s sales price. For example, on a $300,000 house, a 6% commission would cost $18,000. Commissions are negotiable. The commission is usually split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent as well as their respective brokers. 

A caveat: If an agent represents the seller  and  the buyer, the agent becomes a dual agent and earns both sides of the commission. In dual agency, you may have more room to negotiate the rate — just keep in mind that you’re not being represented exclusively as you are in single agency. You may want to hire an attorney to review documents and help you negotiate.

The listing agent’s commission fee often covers the cost of professional photos, marketing and marketing materials, and any administrative fees charged by the agent’s brokerage. 

Also, consider this: Great agents — with their pretty photography, HGTV-worthy staging tricks, and marketing smarts — earn their keep. 

So, if you’ve read all of the above, you’ve done your homework to find a great agent. Now you’re ready to sell that house.

HOUSELOGIC

HouseLogic helps consumers make smart, confident decisions about all aspects of home ownership. Made possible by REALTORS®, the site helps owners get the most value and enjoyment from their existing home and helps buyers and sellers make the best deal possible. 

Top Negotiation Tips for Buyers in a More Balanced Bellingham Market

By Andi Dyer • November 25, 2025
The Bellingham real estate market in 2025 has found a steadier rhythm. It’s more balanced, less frenzied, and far friendlier to buyers who come prepared. After several years of bidding wars and lightning-fast decisions, inventory has increased and prices have leveled, creating room for strategy and nuance again. That’s where a thoughtful negotiation plan makes all the difference. Understand the Current Market Landscape Buyers today have more leverage than they’ve had in years. With homes spending longer on the market and sellers adjusting expectations, understanding current pricing trends and comparable sales is key. I guide my clients through real-time Whatcom County data — reviewing price per square foot, recent closings in their preferred neighborhoods, and seasonal patterns — so every offer is rooted in fact, not emotion. Knowing what homes are actually selling for helps buyers negotiate confidently without overpaying. Leverage Increased Inventory With more listings available, buyers finally have room to slow down and make informed choices. Take the time to conduct thorough inspections, ask questions, and request repairs or credits when they’re justified. Still, timing matters. Desirable homes can move quickly, even in a calmer market. Having a pre-approval letter ready and showing flexibility with contingencies can set you apart. Sellers appreciate serious, prepared buyers who make the process smoother and more predictable. When I negotiate for clients, I focus on solutions, not standoffs — framing each request as a way for both sides to move forward comfortably. Craft Strategic, Seller-Friendly Offers Strong offers in a balanced market are built on precision, not pressure. A winning offer often combines fair pricing, flexibility, and professionalism. Smart buyers should: Land near fair market value to attract attention without sparking a bidding war. Use escalation clauses only when true competition exists. Match the seller’s preferred timeline for closing or possession. Limit or waive contingencies only when fully confident in the home’s condition. Small touches matter. Adjusting possession dates, offering to cover a minor fee, or writing a sincere personal note can make your offer stand out — without adding cost. Partner With Skilled, Local Negotiators Negotiation in Bellingham isn’t just about price; it’s about relationships. Local insight matters — from understanding micro-trends in neighborhoods like Fairhaven, Sunnyland, or Ferndale, to reading seller motivations and knowing how individual agents operate. My background in contract strategy and community leadership helps me structure offers that feel collaborative and professional — the kind that make sellers comfortable saying yes. The Bottom Line In Bellingham’s 2025 market, the best advantage for buyers comes from preparation, patience, and partnership. Clear communication, realistic expectations, and data-backed strategy turn negotiation from a guessing game into a confident, collaborative process. This new, more balanced market rewards buyers who understand timing, value, and the human side of real estate — securing the right home at the right price without the chaos of years past. Andi Dyer, REALTOR® RE/MAX Whatcom County 📞 Call: 360.734.6479 🌐 AndiDyer.com/schedule Expert Guidance to Buy, Invest, and Sell in Bellingham and Whatcom County Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is 2025 a good year to buy a home in Bellingham? Yes. The market is more balanced, giving buyers more negotiating power and time to make informed decisions without constant bidding wars. 2. Are home prices dropping in Bellingham? Prices have leveled slightly but remain steady. The market has transitioned from rapid growth to sustainable stability. 3. How long are homes staying on the market now? Most homes are spending longer on the market than in previous years, typically between 30 and 45 days, depending on price and condition. 4. What can buyers negotiate in 2025? Repairs, closing costs, or flexible timelines are common negotiation points. Sellers are often more open to conversation than they were in past years. 5. Why work with a local REALTOR®? Local agents understand neighborhood nuances, market trends, and the personalities behind listings — insight that can make or break a negotiation.

Why Are More Seattle Buyers Choosing Bellingham Right Now?

By Andi Dyer • November 17, 2025
More Seattle buyers are choosing Bellingham right now primarily because of affordability, lifestyle, and the flexibility of remote work. With Seattle’s median home price around $766,000 in 2025, many buyers see Bellingham’s median price near $625,000 as a major opportunity to get more home for their money, often with larger lots, quieter streets, and the same Pacific Northwest charm. Bellingham offers the best of both worlds: a welcoming, small-town atmosphere paired with urban conveniences like a vibrant downtown, strong local arts, and steady employment sectors in healthcare, higher education, and technology. That mix helps sustain a healthy economy and keeps the area appealing for long-term living. Remote Work Opens the Door The ongoing rise of remote and hybrid work has changed how people think about “location.” Many Seattle-area professionals now realize they can keep their jobs and stay in Washington while escaping the high costs, traffic, and stress of city living. Bellingham makes that trade easy. It’s close enough to Seattle for visits or meetings but far enough away to enjoy a slower pace and a stronger connection to nature. Between Mount Baker, the San Juan Islands, and endless hiking and biking trails, it’s easy to see why people looking for balance are heading north. A Balanced and Competitive Market Nearly one in four Seattle-area buyers are exploring moves outside the metro area, and Bellingham is near the top of that list. The local market remains active but is far more balanced than Seattle’s, giving buyers more time and flexibility to find the right property. While desirable homes still attract competition, bidding wars are less intense, and inventory levels have improved. This creates a healthier environment for both buyers and sellers — a market where thoughtful preparation and realistic pricing matter more than speed. The Appeal Is Clear Seattle buyers are drawn to Bellingham because it delivers more value, space, and lifestyle without sacrificing access to the city’s cultural and professional connections. It’s affordable enough to feel like a smart investment, beautiful enough to feel like an escape, and connected enough to make the move practical. For many, it’s not about leaving Seattle — it’s about redefining what home looks like in the Pacific Northwest. Andi Dyer, REALTOR® RE/MAX Whatcom County 📞 Call: 360.734.6479 🌐 AndiDyer.com/schedule Expert Guidance to Buy, Invest, and Sell in Bellingham and Whatcom County Frequently Asked Questions  1. Is Bellingham more affordable than Seattle? Yes. With a median home price around $625,000 compared to Seattle’s $766,000, Bellingham offers noticeably more space and value for the money. 2. How far is Bellingham from Seattle? Bellingham is roughly 90 miles north of Seattle, about an hour and a half by car, making it close enough for business trips, family visits, or weekend plans. 3. What types of jobs are common in Bellingham? Major employment sectors include healthcare, higher education, small business, tourism, and a growing tech and remote-work community. 4. Is Bellingham a good place for remote workers? Absolutely. The area offers reliable internet access, quiet workspaces, and the freedom to enjoy outdoor recreation before or after the workday. 5. What makes Bellingham attractive for Seattle buyers? Lower prices, natural beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle top the list, but staying within Washington while maintaining career flexibility makes it even more appealing.

My Favorite Podcasts

By Andi Dyer • November 17, 2025
What I’m Listening To This Month Between showings, coffee stops, and scenic drives around Whatcom County, I love a good podcast to keep me company. Here are a few that have caught my ear lately—equal parts inspiring, hilarious, and a little mysterious. 🎧 Taskmaster: The Podcast If you love British humor, this one’s a treat. Each episode dives into the wonderfully chaotic world of Taskmaster, where comedians face absurd challenges with equal parts brilliance and questionable judgment. 🌍 Women Who Travel This series celebrates the ways women explore the world—blending candid storytelling, cultural insight, and pure wanderlust. Perfect listening for travel lovers and daydreamers alike. 🐾 Trained to Kill: The Dog Trainer, the Heiress, and the Bodyguard A true crime story rooted in Anacortes, this gripping series unravels a tangled web of loyalty, manipulation, and danger—each episode more surprising than the last. Have a favorite podcast to recommend? I’d love to hear it, especially something that pairs well with a drive along Chuckanut or a stroll through Fairhaven.

How Increased Inventory Is Changing Whatcom County Real Estate in Late 2025

By Andi Dyer • November 14, 2025
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Slow Market or Opportunity? What Sellers in Whatcom County Should Know This Winter

By Andi Dyer • November 13, 2025
Despite the perception of a “slow market,” winter 2025 in Whatcom County actually represents a real opportunity for sellers who adapt their approach strategically. After several years of rapid home price growth and extremely tight inventory, the market has entered a more balanced phase marked by higher inventory, steady buyer demand, and stable pricing across the region. Inventory Is Up — and So Is Competition Inventory has increased significantly over the past year. In Bellingham, active listings are up 41% year-over-year , with similar trends seen in Ferndale, Lynden, Blaine, and Birch Bay. This growth gives buyers more choices than they’ve had in years, but it also means sellers are competing for attention. Homes that stand out with professional staging, high-quality photos, and competitive pricing continue to sell quickly, even as the overall pace slows. Sellers who approach listing preparation thoughtfully are still seeing strong offers and solid closing timelines. Prices Remain Steady Home prices across Whatcom County have softened only slightly from their 2024 peaks but remain stable overall. The median home price currently hovers between $615,000 and $625,000 , with detached homes averaging around $620,000 . Average days on market have increased modestly, giving buyers a bit more breathing room — but that shift also highlights the importance of realistic pricing. Homes priced too aggressively tend to linger, while those aligned with current market data still attract steady interest. Ferndale continues to appeal to buyers seeking affordability and newer developments, while Bellingham holds its value thanks to its waterfront access, cultural amenities, and strong local economy. A Balanced Market Creates Strategic Openings With roughly 3.5 to 4 months of inventory , Whatcom County has reached a level of balance not seen in years. Buyers have more time to make decisions, but sellers who present their homes well and price strategically are still rewarded. This isn’t the frantic, multiple-offer market of 2021—but it’s also not a downturn. It’s a recalibration. Sellers who see it that way are the ones finding success. The Seller’s Advantage: Preparation and Precision Winter markets tend to filter out casual buyers. The ones shopping now are typically motivated—relocating, upsizing, or taking advantage of improved selection. That’s why preparation matters so much. Well-staged homes that photograph beautifully online and are priced in line with recent sales continue to capture attention. Sellers who invest a little time in presentation and flexibility in negotiation are often the ones walking away with strong results. The Bottom Line Winter 2025 in Whatcom County isn’t a “slow” market—it’s a smarter one. With rising inventory, stable pricing, and buyers who are still active but more deliberate, it’s a season where strategy counts more than speed. Sellers who adapt to these changes—by pricing realistically, presenting their homes thoughtfully, and staying patient—can take advantage of this moment to move forward successfully. Andi Dyer, REALTOR® RE/MAX Whatcom County 📞 Call: 360.734.6479 🌐 AndiDyer.com/schedule Expert Guidance to Buy, Invest, and Sell in Bellingham and Whatcom County  Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is winter a bad time to sell a home in Whatcom County? Not at all. Serious buyers stay active through winter, and less overall competition can make your home stand out. 2. Are home prices dropping in Whatcom County? Prices have softened slightly from their 2024 highs but remain steady. The market is balanced, not declining. 3. How long are homes taking to sell? Most homes are taking slightly longer—typically 30 to 45 days—but well-prepared listings can still go pending within two to three weeks. 4. Should sellers wait until spring 2026? Waiting isn’t always better. Listing now can mean less competition and a pool of serious buyers who want to move before spring. 5. What’s the key to selling successfully right now? Realistic pricing, strong presentation, and working with a REALTOR® who understands the shifting local market dynamics.

From Your Porch to Their Pantry – Bellingham Food Drive

By Andi Dyer • November 11, 2025
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My Swedish Glogg Recipe

By Andi Dyer • November 10, 2025
To make my traditional Swedish Glögg (mulled wine), you gently heat red wine and spirits with a blend of spices, orange zest, and sugar. The mixture is then strained and served warm with blanched almonds and raisins. Ingredients 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, or a Cotes du Rhone) 1/2 to 1 cup sugar (caster or granulated, to taste) 1/2 to 1 cup vodka, aquavit, bourbon, or brandy (optional, for a stronger drink) 1 orange (peel in wide strips, avoiding the white pith) 1 cinnamon stick 10 whole cloves 10 cardamom pods, lightly crushed 3-4 slices fresh ginger, peeled (optional) 1/2 cup raisins (plus more for serving) 1/2 cup blanched slivered almonds (for serving) Instructions Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, sugar, orange zest strips, cinnamon stick, cloves, crushed cardamom pods, and ginger slices (if using). Add the raisins and almonds into the mixture or save them for serving. Heat Gently Warm the mixture over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely. It is crucial that the mixture is heated gently and never allowed to boil, or the alcohol will cook off and the flavor will be spoiled. The temperature should stay below 175°F (77°C). This process typically takes 10-15 minutes. Steep Remove the pot from the heat, cover it with a lid, and let the spices infuse the wine. This can be done for at least 1 hour, or ideally, the mixture can be left to steep overnight in a cool place for a more intense flavor. Strain and Reheat Strain the glögg through a fine-mesh strainer to remove all the spices and orange peel. Discard the spices. Gently reheat the liquid over low heat until hot but not boiling. Add Spirit (Optional): Just before serving, stir in the vodka, aquavit, or other spirit of your choice, if using. Serve Ladle the warm glögg into small heatproof glasses or mugs. Garnish each serving with a few additional blanched almonds and raisins, which are traditionally eaten with a small spoon as you drink.

Winter Recipe: Pomegranate & Pear Green Salad with Ginger Dressing

By Andi Dyer • November 4, 2025
Bring a burst of color (and flavor!) to your table with this crisp, seasonal salad. Juicy pears, tart pomegranate seeds, and a lively ginger dressing make it a refreshing side for any fall or holiday meal.  🍁 Click below to get the recipe and add a little sparkle to your menu!

How One Bellingham Homeowner Dodged Thousands in Property Taxes (and How You Can Too)

By Andi Dyer • November 2, 2025
Got a surprise property tax bill? You may be able to appeal—but don’t wait. One homeowner called me two days before the deadline, and we built a successful appeal together. Check your 2025 valuation and email me “Tax Check” for a free review. It started with a Saturday night phone call. Frantic, a local homeowner reached out just days before the property tax appeal deadline. Their 2024 assessment had landed with a thud, forecasting a tax bill that felt wildly out of line with reality. The deadline to appeal? Monday, October 27th. Cue the scramble. That evening, too stormy to drive, I hunkered down at home and dove into the numbers. Something wasn’t right. The new valuation didn't match the trajectory of their neighborhood market. The math simply didn’t check out. Sunday morning, we got to work. I drove out to their property, and together we built a bulletproof appeal. We reviewed sales data, took updated photos, and pulled relevant comparables to submit with their documentation. The appeal package was ready to go by Monday morning. Crisis averted. Here’s what every Whatcom County homeowner should know: Your property valuation notice typically arrives in September. You have 30 days from the date on the notice to file an appeal. If the number looks off, don’t shrug and hope it’s close enough. You can challenge it—and often should, especially in fluctuating markets like Bellingham, Ferndale, and beyond. The key takeaway? Don’t wait until the last minute. It pays to be proactive. Assessments aren’t always accurate, and appealing your property valuation could save you thousands. If your 2025 valuation doesn’t reflect the true market value of your home, you have options—and you don’t have to figure them out alone. Let’s make sure you’re not overpaying. If your new valuation feels too high, DM me "Tax Check" and I’ll give you a free property value review. We’ll go over the numbers together and see if an appeal makes sense. Still have questions? Let’s meet for coffee and talk it through. I’m always happy to help you navigate the less-fun-but-super-important parts of homeownership.

Fall Recipe: Vegetable Lasagna

By Andi Dyer • October 29, 2025
🍂 This hearty vegetable lasagna is the perfect fall meal—warm, colorful, and packed with seasonal goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels just as good on a weeknight as it does at a fall gathering.
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