WE ARE LILAC LISTINGS
Lilac Listings at RE/MAX Whatcom County was created by Rachael and Laura in 2021. The "lilac" symbolizes happiness, tranquility, confidence, and wisdom. We chose this flower to best represent our team, our mission, & our values within our work.
Providing our buyers & sellers with a positive real estate experience is our #1 priority. We value the trust you place in us and we pledge to provide you with guidance, and wisdom while helping you achieve your real estate goals.
Our strategies, systems, and communication skills set us apart as we collaborate to maximize the results for our clients. As educators, we strive to help you understand each step of the buying or selling process and are proud to be recognized as trusted leaders in our industry.
We are a dynamic team with over 26 years of experience in Real Estate in Whatcom County. We operate at a high level of confidence, competence, and consistency while building genuine relationships with our clients. We are grateful to have achieved the title as #1 Team in 2023 for RE/MAX Whatcom County.
At the end of the day, we are more than just Realtors. We are active members of our community, we are mothers, wives, and friends. We look forward to helping you reach your goals and being your Community Real Estate Resource.
-Rachael, Laura, & Kaysie
THE BUYING PROCESS FROM START TO FINISH
INITIAL INTERVIEW
We will identify your goals and discuss your plan and create a strategy
GET PRE-APPROVED
See "Recommended Lenders" Once you are Pre-Approved, we can start showing you homes
WRITE YOUR OFFER
Electronically or In-Person
Negotiation- We have strategies to help our buyers stand out and get their offers accepted
MORTGAGE LENDER
We will provide your lender with a copy of completed contract
Contact your lender to lock in your loan & start the process
SIGN BUYER’S AGENCY AGREEMENT
WA State requirement, see more on page 4 of this guide.
HOUSE HUNTING
See "House Hunting" in this guide
CONTRACT APPROVAL
Introduction to our Transaction Team (Lead by Todd French)
Earnest Money-Typically Due 2 days after Contract Approval
Standard purchase timeframe is 30 to 45 days
INSPECTION
Schedule your home inspection.(We will guide you through this process)
APPRAISAL
Ordered by the Lender
(We will attend when possible)
Negotiate Work Orders
Review Work Completed/Re-Inspect
TITLE COMPANY/ESCROW SIGNING INSURANCE
Once the mortgage company sends documents to escrow, they will call you for an appointment to sign
LOAN APPROVAL
After final loan approval Lender will issue a final closing disclosure at least 3 days before closing
CLOSING/POSSESSION
Keys 9 PM or after property closed & record, if pre-arranged
You will need to secure homeowner's insurance & provide contact info to your lender
UNDERWRITING
Final verifcation of income, assets, & debts in order to issue final approval
Typically happens at the Title Company 1-5 days before closing
OUR PARTNERED STRATEGY
SHARED EXPECTATIONS
CLIENT BROKER
Explain the Buyer Brokerage Service Agreement
Preliminary Market Report
MLS Daily Search
Arrange Showings
Check on FSBO's (For Sale by Owner) based off your inquiries Broker Networking
Research "Solds" and tax records
Draft & Negotiate P&SA + P&SA to Lender
Review Inspection Report
Negotiate and manage Work Order completion
Appraisal Access
Review Closing Documents
Sign Buyer/Brokerage Service Agreement
Provide best hours/days we can reach you + preferred method of contact
Drive preferred neighborhoods
Attend Open Houses
Social circle networking
Suggest FSBO's
Attend inspection
Review bids + respond in a timely manner
Promptly sign lender's documents, provide any info requested, inspect work orders
Have availability/accessibility to sign
BUYER BROKERAGE SERVICES AGREEMENT
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This Buyer Brokerage Services Agreement (“Agreement”) is effective upon mutual acceptance (“Effective Date”) and is made by and between ___________________________________________ (“Buyer Brokerage Firm” or “Firm”) and ________________ (“Buyer”) for real property located
in the following areas: __________________________________________________ (unlimited if not filled in) (“Area”).
1. DEFINITIONS. “Purchase(s)” includes a contract to purchase, an exchange or contract to exchange, or an option to purchase.
2. TERM. This Agreement will expire __________ days (60 days if not filled in) from the Effective Date (“Term”). If this Agreement expires while Buyer is a party to a purchase and sale agreement and represented by Buyer Brokerage Firm as indicated on the purchase and sale agreement, the Term shall automatically extend until the sale is closed or the purchase and sale agreement is terminated.
3. AGENCY.
a. Pamphlet. Buyer acknowledges receipt of the pamphlet entitled "Real Estate Brokerage in Washington."
b. Buyer Broker. Buyer Brokerage Firm appoints ____________________________ ("Buyer Broker") to represent Buyer. This Agreement creates an agency relationship with Buyer Broker and any of Firm’s managing brokers who supervise Buyer Broker (“Supervising Broker”). No other brokers affiliated with Firm are agents of Buyer.
c. Agency Relationship. Buyer Brokerage Firm’s representation of Buyer for the purchase of real property in the Area shall be (non-exclusive, if not checked):
Exclusive. Buyer may not enter into an agency relationship with another real estate firm during the Term for the purchase of real property in the Area (“Exclusive Agency”); or Non-Exclusive. Buyer may enter into a non-exclusive agency relationship with other real estate firms during the Term (“Non-Exclusive Agency”).
4. LIMITED DUAL AGENCY.
a. Buyer Broker as Limited Dual Agent. If initialed below, Buyer consents to Buyer Broker and Supervising Broker acting as limited dual agents in the sale of property that is listed by Buyer Broker. Buyer acknowledges that as a limited dual agent, RCW 18.86.060 prohibits Buyer Broker from advocating terms favorable to Buyer to the detriment of the seller and further limits Buyer Broker’s representation of Buyer.
b. Firm Limited Dual Agency. If Buyer purchases a property listed by one of Firm’s brokers other than Buyer Broker (“Listing Broker”), Buyer consents to any Supervising Broker, who also supervises Listing Broker, acting as a limited dual agent.
5. COMPENSATION. Buyer acknowledges that there are no standard compensation rates and the compensation in this Agreement is fully negotiable and not set by law. Firm may not receive any compensation for brokerage services provided to Buyer from any source greater than the amount set forth in this Section 5 or any subsequent amendment hereto. The compensation for Buyer Brokerage Firm’s services (the “Compensation”) shall be:
a.
b. If Buyer Broker is a limited dual agent and represents both Buyer and the seller, then the Compensation shall ________ % of purchase price; $________________; other: ____________________________________; or be (equal to the amount in subsection 5(a) if not filled in):
________ % of purchase price; $________________; other: ____________________________________; or
c. If the seller is not represented by a licensed real estate firm, then the Compensation shall be (equal to the amount in subsection 5(a) if not filled in):
________ % of purchase price; $________________; other: ______________________________________.
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6. SELLER COMPENSATION OFFER.
A seller may, but is not required to, offer compensation to Firm for representing Buyer in the purchase of seller’s real property (“Seller’s Offer”). Seller’s Offer, if any, shall be stated in the purchase and sale agreement.
Buyer may request that the seller pay the Compensation to Firm as part of Buyer’s offer, and Buyer shall pay any amount of the Compensation not paid by seller.
If Seller’s Offer is greater than the Compensation, as part of Buyer’s offer, Buyer may request that the amount of Seller’s Offer that is greater than the Compensation be credited to Buyer (to the extent allowed by Buyer’s lender).
7. COMPENSATION TERMS. The Compensation is due (except as otherwise agreed herein) when Buyer purchases real property located in the Area during the Term and:
a.
b. Non-Exclusive Agency. For Non-Exclusive Agency, the purchase closes, and Buyer Brokerage Firm represents Exclusive Agency. For Exclusive Agency, the purchase closes. Buyer in such purchase as indicated on the purchase and sale agreement.
c. Compensation After Expiration. If within _____ days (60 days if not filled in) after the Term:
i. Exclusive Agency. Buyer purchases a property that was brought to the attention of Buyer during the Term by the efforts or actions of Firm, or through information secured directly or indirectly from or through Firm; or a property that Buyer inquired about to Firm during the Term. Compensation is due when the purchase closes.
ii. Non-Exclusive Agency. Buyer purchases a property for which Buyer Brokerage Firm presented a written offer to the seller on behalf of Buyer during the Term. Compensation is due when the purchase closes. Provided that in either event, if Buyer or the seller pays compensation to another real estate firm representing Buyer in conjunction with such a sale, the amount of compensation payable to Firm shall be reduced by the amount paid to such other firm(s).
d. Additional Consent. Buyer consents to Firm receiving compensation from more than one party, provided that any terms offered to Firm are disclosed as required by RCW 18.86.030 and any amounts paid to Firm reduce Buyer’s obligation to Firm.
e. Cancellation Without Legal Cause. For Exclusive Agency, if Buyer cancels this Agreement without legal cause, Buyer may be liable for damages incurred by Firm as a result of such cancellation. Listings. Buyer Broker shall bring listings to the attention of Buyer, regardless of Seller’s Offer. f.
g. VA Financing. If Buyer is obtaining VA financing, VA regulations may require the Compensation be paid by the seller.
8. NO WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS. Firm makes no warranties or representations regarding the value of or the suitability of any property for Buyer’s purposes. Buyer agrees to be responsible for making all inspections and investigations necessary to satisfy Buyer as to the property’s suitability and value.
9. INSPECTION RECOMMENDED. Firm recommends that any offer to purchase a property be conditioned on an inspection of the property and its improvements conducted by a licensed inspector. Firm and Buyer Broker have no expertise in these matters and Buyer is solely responsible for interviewing and selecting all inspectors.
10. NO DISTRESSED HOME CONVEYANCE. Firm will not represent or assist Buyer in a transaction that is a “Distressed Home Conveyance” as defined by Chapter 61.34 RCW unless otherwise agreed in writing. A “Distressed Home Conveyance” is a transaction where a buyer purchases property from a “Distressed Homeowner” (defined by Chapter 61.34 RCW), allows the Distressed Homeowner to continue to occupy the property, and promises to convey the property back to the Distressed Homeowner or promises the Distressed Homeowner an interest in, or portion of the proceeds from a resale of the property.
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11. FAIR HOUSING. Local, state, and federal fair housing laws prohibit discrimination based on sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, creed, color, religion, caste, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, families with children status, familial status, honorably discharged veteran or military status, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a support or service animal by a person with a disability.
12. ATTORNEYS' FEES. In the event either party employs an attorney to enforce any terms of this Agreement and is successful, the other party agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees. In the event of trial, the successful party shall be entitled to an award of attorneys' fees and expenses; the amount of the attorneys' fees and expenses shall be fixed by the court. The venue of any suit shall be the county in which the property is located.
13. OTHER.
Buyer E-mail Address
Buyer Brokerage Firm
Buyer Brokerage Firm License Number
Buyer Broker E-mail Address
GET PRE-APPROVED
To become a pre-approved buyer, you must apply for a home loan and have your income and credit report verified by the lender. A pre-qualified buyer is a buyer who has not had their income and credit report verified and only has verbally reported it to the lender. Pre-approved buyers have a distinct advantage over pre-qualified buyers when they submit an offer to a seller. Once you are either pre-approved or prequalified, we can begin the house search and tour homes.
UPFRONT COSTS
- $700
$660
RECCOMMENDED LENDERS
The Pysden Team Cross Country Mortgage 21 Bellwether Way Suite 103/104, Bellingham, WA 98225
360.543.8538 PysdenTeam@ccm.com
Becky Farrar
Evergreen Home Loans 1835 Barkley Blvd. Suite 101 Bellingham, WA 98226
360.220.2328
bfarrar@EvergreenHomeLoans.com
Michael Dormer
Halcyon Home Loans 119 Cedar Avenue Snohomish, WA 98290
425.215.1111 michael@halcyonhomeloans.com
Marcie Connell
Movement Mortgage 2200 Rimland Dr, Ste 220 & 250, Bellingham, WA 98226
360.319.1105
marcie.connell@movement.com
If you are considering a different Lender here are 5 Critical questions to ask...
1. How quickly can you close?
2. Are you able to fully underwrite my loan prior to finding a home?
3. What is your current APR rate? (including the fees and rate)
4. Do you have any unique programs available for my situation?
5. Are you available after hours and on the weekend for approval letters?
COMPLETING THE LOAN APPLICATION
ITEMS REQUIRED FOR LOAN APPLICATION
Addresses for 2 Full Years
Gross Monthly Income
W-2's from the last 2 years for all borrowers
Last 2 years of complete tax returns (Including any business returns and K-1's, if applicatble)
Proof of pensions, retirement, disability, or Social
Security
Proof of income from rentals, investments, etc.
Proof of Child Support or alimony paid/received
Year-to-Date Pay Stub - If Self Employed: Two years of 1040 tax returns & Current year profit/loss statement
Each creditor's name, address, and account type
All associated account numbers
Proof of monthly payments & approximate balances amount of childcare expenses
Names and addresses of saving institutions
Account numbers for all accounts
Types of accounts and Current balances
Copy of current mortgage statements for any properties currently owned
List of assets in stocks, bonds & land
Life Insurance cash value (documented if used as cash down payment)
Homeowner's insurance agent contact info
Social Security numbers for all parties
Veteran's certificate of Eligibility & DD-214
Cash or check to pay for application fee
HOUSE HUNTING
As members of the NWMLS, we have lightning fast access to listings using advanced search capabilities, an integrated tax and property records database, dynamic map searching, "market update" features to quickly view price changes and new listings since the our last search, broker tour and open house information, broker reports and client handouts.
NWMLS has also integrated other tools into Matrix, such as Down Payment Resource, to assist buyers with down payment options; the INRIXTM Drive Time search feature, which narrows properties based on the buyer's preferred commute time; and a variety of statistical reporting tools.
We will set you up with your own portal and direct link to our MLS where we can send you new listings as they hit the market.
Lilac- Listings.com - Your Community Real Estate Resource
Our website caters personally to buyers, sellers, and agents worldwide. Interested buyers can sign up for news on listings, save properties and searches, use our interactive map to search by their preferred area, and receive updates on the listings that appeal to them most. No registration is required to view our listings. All statistics are tracked for optimum insights into the listing's success.
As the third most popular real estate engine, thousands of people worldwide start their real estate search at ReMax.com. The site and app both feature many helpful tools for buyers and sellers including tools to locate agents, offices, and properties around the world. As a trusted name in the industry and the leader in United States real estate sales, the average RE/MAX broker outsells the competition 2:1.
Should you see a For Sale By Owner sign or ad, please give us the phone number and address and we will contact the owner on your behalf. Most FSBO sellers are willing to work with a Realtor on the Buying side if we make contact with them first.
INSPECTION
We cannot stress enough the importance of having an inspection- even on new-construction homes! While there may not appear to be any major problems with the home, having an inspection will assure you that the house is sound and will save you from costly surprises in the future. Plan to attend the final walk-through of the inspection, ask questions, and learn as much as you can about your new home. The following inspectors are our trusted partners. They are all members of the American Society of Home Inspectors and issue a written report to you upon a finalized inspection. Their prices range between $450 and $750. Outbuildings, shops, and structures inspections are available at an additional fee.
WIN Home Inspection - Brian Fish
360.398.8710 - Whatcom | 360.320.8133 - Skagit www.whatcom.wini.com
Provides additional services: Sewer Scops, Mold Testing, Air Quality Tests And More!
Please visit their website to see the full list of services.
Inside N' Out Inspection Services - Dennis Flaherty
360.393.0274 www.insidenout.net
Sobjack Home Inspections - Casey Sobjack (360) 306-6079
sobjackhomeinspections@yahoo.com www.sobjackhomeinspections.com
Septic Inspection Services Also Available!
H2 Home Inspections - Chris Howell
Shoebox16@comcast.net 360.201.7018
YOUR COMMUNITY REAL ESTATE RESOURCE
SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY
We are deeply committed to giving back to our community and supporting those in need. As proud residents of Whatcom County, we understand the importance of local non-profit organizations and the positive impact they have on our community's future.
Our team volunteers and supports a variety of local non-profits, however, we have created the Pay it Forward Project to make a greater impact on four very important organizations (Skookum Kids, Lydia Place, Growing Veterans, or Animals as Natural Therapy) that are near and dear to us. For every home that we sell, we will donate 1% of our compensations to one of thesenon-profit organizations. Following the closing of each sale we allow our clients to select one of these four organizations and we make a direct donation on behalf of our clients.
Our goal is not only to provide additional funds to these deserving causes but also to raise awareness of their vital work in our community. In 2023 we were able to raise $10,600 for these deserving organizations.
CHILDREN'S MIRACLE NETWORK HOSPITAL
Our team members are all Miracle Agents through the RE/MAX Miracle Home & Miracle Property Program that benefits Seattle Children's Hospital. Collectively RE/MAX has donated over 186 million dollars to Children's Miracle Network Hospitals and is celebrating 30 years of partnership. Each home sold by the Lilac Listings team is considered a Miracle Home. A donation is made in honor of our client to the Children's Miracle Networks Hospitals, and those funds stay in our community going directly to Seattle Children's Hospital.
LILAC LISTINGS IS HONORED AND DEVOTED TO SUPPORTING THESE ADDITIONAL NON-PROFITS AND ORGANIZATIONS:
Clients Say it Best
Relocation Specialists
"When we arrived in Washington for our house hunting trip, Rachael went up and beyond making herself available to show us options. We were very lucky to find our dream retirement home and that was all due to Rachael’s commitment to her clients. We would highly recommend Rachael to anyone looking for a realtor that is highly knowledgeable, understands and navigates the process flawlessly and most of all dedicated to her clients."
11/16/2022 - Jenn & Georgia
Purchased a home in Lynden, WA
Negotiation Experts
It was easy working with Laura—she was always quickly responsive, willing to go lots of extra miles, knowledgeable and quick with paperwork. I was a first-time homebuyer and somewhat new to the area, and she took extra time to explain the process of buying a home and to answer all my questions. She made sure I was aware of what I needed to know to make informed decisions and at no point throughout the process did I feel pressured or rushed by her to make any particular decision. I felt she was a good advocate for me in negotiating some repairs with the sellers, and when I needed some projects done she offered her contacts with tradespeople (zero pressure from her to hire them) who finished the jobs very quickly, well, and for a reasonable cost. Would recommend and work with again if I ever needed to.
11/20/2022 -Nyssa Howell | First-Time Homebuyer in Mount Vernon, WA
Networking Gurus
Kaysie, went above and beyond! I relocated from Kent to Sudden Valley. During times I was unable to drive up to see homes, she did virtual viewings so I could see the homes. She even gave us opportunities to view homes before they were even on the market through her connections. Once we found our perfect home she worked with the homeowners to allow me to rent briefly during closing so my littles could start school in their new school district! She was very communicative throughout the whole process. Once we closed she brought over the most beautiful closing basket. She thought about every detail. She has continued to connect me to resources/activities in our new community. She has become an amazing friend throughout this journey. I am beyond thank for her.
06/17/2022 - Brennan + Nickole | Relocated to Sudden Valley
First-Time Homebuyer Partners
"With the help of both Laura and Rachael at Lilac Listings, we recently submitted our first offer on a home, which was accepted! We continue to be impressed with them as they help us navigate the ins and outs of this process as we move toward closing. We're thrilled with the prospect of owning our dream home and grateful for the incredible help provided by Lilac Listings! I highly recommend them for anyone looking for a team of friendly, helpful, knowledgeable realtors!"
02/10/2022- Hannah & Andrew K. | First-Homebuyers in Bellingham, WA
MEET RACHAEL
Raised in Whatcom County as a Contractor’s daughter and Rachael was able to gain insight into real estate from a very young age. Living in almost every corner of this community, she is proud to have the opportunity to raise her children here. Her family is dedicated to giving back to the community, being involved, and supporting its growth. When not working, Rachael is with her family skiing, paddle boarding, fishing, golfing, entertaining, or watching her children play soccer. She also served on the board for Skookum Kids and for 10 years she chaired the Education Committee for the Whatcom County Association of Realtors.
Rachael is ready to meet you where your Real Estate needs are. Whether you are an avid investor, first-time homebuyer, or seasoned homeowner, she looks forward to assisting in your real estate goals. Her mission is to educate you and provide unparalleled concierge-style service every step of the way. She works to provide a high level of service and anticipation to ensure the best overall experience for you. Building a custom strategy with our proven systems that will meet your needs and achieve your goals is why she loves what she does. She has the tenacity to get things done and is willing to get creative to reach a client’s goals.
As your Real Estate adviser, you will find that Rachael is intentional about suggested strategies and confident, competent, and consistent. She provides efficient communication as a part of her overall systems and strategies. She works collaboratively with all brokers, leading with integrity and trust no matter how difficult the situation may be.
Rachael Wilson Managing Broker
CLHMS, CRS, ABR, CDPE, GREEN, CNE, e-PRO, PSA
RE/MAX Whatcom County, Inc
References:
Justin Oden (360) 815-2009
Teresa Singson (360) 820-3054
Pat Crouch (512) 587-3207
Derek & Jamie Martin (360) 223-5284
Rachael is passionate about teaching and educating both clients and brokers on all aspects of real estate. She understands the importance of continuing education in the ever-changing world of real estate and that education is the engine behind all that we do and value. With over 17 years of experience in the real estate industry and a lifetime of knowledge in home construction, she looks forward to sharing her expertise with you.
MEET KAYSIE
Drawn to Whatcom County because of the good-hearted people, the shoreline & mountain views and constantly being inspired by the beauty that surrounds her. With roots in Colorado, her family of 5 relocated to Bellingham seven years ago. Her experience of moving from out of state, and then most recently of making her dream of owning a farm come true, gave her valuable knowledge and a relatable understanding of relocations and purchasing within the state of Washington.
Her background in customer service, photography, and as a previous business owner prepared her for a career in Real Estate, where she began as a Marketing Manager for a Real Estate team and a Licensed Real Estate assistant.
She is not only connected to the community through Real Estate but also as an active volunteer in Whatcom County. She has a huge heart for children, and you can often find her helping in the Blaine School District or volunteering at Skookum for kids with foster children.
As a RE/MAX® realtor, she is dedicated to helping her clients find the home of their dreams. Whether you are buying or selling a home, or just curious about the local market, she would love to offer her support and services. She knows the local community, serving both Whatcom and Skagit Counties, and she strives to be a friendly neighbor who can help guide you through the nuances of the local market. With access to top listings, exceptional marketing strategies, and cutting-edge technology at her fingertips, she works hard to make your real estate experience memorable and enjoyable.
ABR, RSPS, CNE
RE/MAX Whatcom County, Inc.
References:
Ann Kurtz (360) 201-7235
Brenda Hunter (360) 922-2698
Melanie Pysden (360) 303-8359
Alison Ramsell (206) 234-8605
Kaysie joined Rachael and Laura at RE/MAX in January of 2023 and is an Accredited Buyers Specialist (ABR), a Resort & Second Home Property Specialist (RSPS), and Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) as well as a member of the National Association of Realtors and Whatcom County Realtor's Association.
When she is not house hunting, you can find her spending time with her husband and 3 children, exploring the beauties of the PNW, working on the family farm, or renovating her 1910 farmhouse.
Kaysie Berry Broker
MEET LAURA
Laura partnered with Rachael Wilson at RE/MAX in January 2018 and 2021 they created Lilac Listings at RE/MAX Whatcom County together. Laura is a Global Referral Specialist with Global Referral Group LLC where she can utilize her connection and relationships with other Brokers to help connect her clients with the best Realtors worldwide.
Born and raised in Whatcom County, Laura has witnessed the tremendous amount of change and growth that has transformed the Bellingham area into one of the most sought-after destinations in the Pacific Northwest. She is passionate about the place she calls home and being involved in everything that improves her community or fosters genuine relationships with others. Laura’s vast knowledge of neighborhoods, school districts, and local communities is key when helping clients find a special home in the location that best fits their desires. She enjoys educating newcomers and sharing about her favorite trails, parks, restaurants, and best places to explore.
Laura is very active and connected in the local community as a result of working for years in the Ferndale School District, at Bellingham Technical College, and in Social Services with seniors. She sits on the Board for Ferndale Dollars for Scholars and is a mentor with the Be The One Program in the Ferndale School District. She also volunteers regularly within her hometown of Ferndale, as well as supporting local non-profits that benefit women and children.
When Laura’s not touring properties, she is outdoors exploring trails with her husband and dog Lily, visiting her children at college, trying out new local restaurants with her friends, or planning the next travel adventure.
References:
Seana Olberg (360) 820-8375
Becky Farrar (360) 220-2328
Toby Ledgerwood (360) 815-1967
Heather & Joe Akers (360) 305-0876
Michele & Rick Smith (360) 305-2266
Laura Rehberger Broker
Global Referral Group LLC
OUR TEAM
Ali Anderson | Office Manager & Marketing Coordinator
Ali has been a member of Lilac Listings since January 2022. She is proficient in sales, social media marketing, and skilled office management. She is responsible for the marketing and advertising of our listings, coordinating client appreciation events, publishing our newsletters, and overseeing the day to day activities of our office. She also assists in managing our social media accounts.
Todd French | Transaction Coordinator
Todd is a licensed real estate broker and has been a member of our team since 2019. The moment your home goes under contract, Todd steps into the process as our Contract-to-Closing coordinator. His sole job on the team is to coordinate dates, deadlines, contingencies, and all of the parties to the contract to ensure that nothing slips through the cracks avoiding any surprises.
TRUSTED PROFESSIONALS
As you embark on the journey of purchasing a home, we'd like to recommend a few local preferred vendors that may need during the buying process. Don't forget to mention our name when reaching out to them, as it helps establish a connection with them.
HOME SERVICES
HOME MAINTENANCE & REPAIR
Siden's Home Repair LLC- Trevor Siden
360.389.0806 | sidenshomerepair@gmail.com
Bellingham Handyman Services- Gerrick
360.223.8388
Revive House Repair LLC- Tony Rinas
360.441.2781 | revivehouserepair@gmail.com
RLS Service LLC (Handyman)- Raymond Sleasman
360.739.2664 | service368@gmail.com
Ethos West Construction Inc (Big Projects) Saul Whitworth | 360.398.6038
Great Floors- Kurtis Arndt
360.738.3599
Precision Painting Pros-Luis Ayala
360.220.0840
Country Glass & Door Inc.-Doug Lankhaar
360.303.1004
F & V Able Electric- Fritz Zemler
360.366.4777
Dry Crawls-Butch Aldrich
360.441.7156
Pacific Northwest Roofing- Zach Larson
360.739.4945
Coast Insulation (360) 366-3472 | info@coastinsulation.net
WATER, SEPTIC, & PLUMBING
Burke Septic & Plumbing-David Burke
360.966.0468
All Around Septic- Robert Knopp
360.922.4384
“Lil John” Sanitary Services Inc.- Mark Melema
360.398.9828 | liljohnsanitary@comcast.net
Premium Septic Service-Excavation | Replacement Brent Moa
360.410.1764 | premiumsepticservice@hotmail.com
Plumbing Repairs-Richardson Plumbing Service Steve | 360.510.6120
Clean Water Services- Joel Young 360.654.2121
Northwest Water Treatment LLC & Pump Service Dan Nieuwsma “Dan the Water Man”
Cell:360.961.5758 | Office:360.354.2044
Livermore & Son-Well Drilling & Pump Brett Boulton 360.398.2211 | bbwelldriller@msn.com Murphy
CLEANING AND MOVING SERVICES
Swan's
Peak Roof & Gutter Clean- Jakob Storm 360.393.5039
KE
HVAC & APPLIANCES
Marr’s Heating and Air Conditioning info@marrsheating.com |
HOME SERVICES CONTINUED
LANDSCAPING
I've Got A Guy- Tree Service ivegotaguytreeservice@gmail.com 360.325.9947
T.W Landscaping- Troy Vanden Bosch tw.landscape09@gmail.com | 360.739.3066
T&J Masonry- Tom Jerich tjmasonrycompany.com | 360.595.1026
Key West Lock Service 360.733.8496
Roma Management-Becky Murphy Property Management 360.815.7239 | Rent@romamanagement.com OTHER HOME SERVICES
LAND DEVELOPMENT
Larry D. Stoner Land Development Consultants Jesse Stoner Jesse@LarryStoner.com | 360.220.0552
Northwest Surveying & GPS -Jeromy DeMeyer 360.354.1950
Haven Design Workshop-Bellingham Architect 360.527.2840 | hello@haven-dw.com
Irwin Land Use Consulting LLC- Jay Irwin 360.410.6745
Northwest Wetlands Consulting-Katrina Jackson nwckatrina@comcast.net | 360.510.1605
Freeland & Associates, Inc. - J.P Slagle, P.E jpslagle@freelandengineering.com | 360.650.1408
LEGAL SERVICES
Chmelik Sitkin & Davis P.S-Seth A. Woolson swoolson@chmelik.com Office: 360.971.1796 | Cell: 360.306.3009
Limitless Law PLLC- Emily Mowery 360.685.0145 | emily@limitlesslaw.com
Lentz & Associates
Full Service Tax, Accounting & Business Consulting 360.734.2172 | roy@lentzaccounting.com
Wealth Retention Services-Katti Esp 360.715.3100
Varner, Systma, & Herndon CPA -Kathy Herndon 360.734.8715 | herndon@vshcpa.com
Williams Appraisal Inc.- Mike Williams
360.770.1460 | williamsappraisal@comcast.net
Shikany Technical Services- Appraiser 360.303.3980 | shikanyts@gmail.com
Automatic Funds-Transfer Services 206.254.0975
Velocity 1031-Kyle Williams 425.247.3307 | kyle@volocity1031.com
Brown & Brown Luanne Lagerwey 360-328-1472 | Luanne.Lagerwey@bbrown.com
Farmers Insurance Adam Thurmond 360.757.7000 | athurmond@farmersagent.com
PCF Insurance (Formerly Rice Insurance) Cassie Roble 360-603-4315 | cassier@riceinsurance.com
UTILITIES TO CONTACT
CODE OF ETHICS
The REALTOR'S PLEDGE OF PERFORMANCE & SERVICE
(We can provide the full Code of Ethics for review upon request)
The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS© adopted the Code of Ethics in 1913, following the professions of medicine, law, and engineering. REALTORS® are real estate professionals who have chosen to join the National Association and abide by its strict Code of Ethics. This means that any REALTOR® with whom you work has voluntarily agreed to abide by a Code of Ethics, based on professionalism and protection of the public. REALTORS® are subject to disciplinary action and sanctions if they violate the duties imposed by the Code of Ethics.
The Code of Ethics is a detailed document that spells out the professional responsibilities of every REALTOR®. Do not hesitate to ask a REALTOR® for a copy of the Code, including the Standards of Practice. The Code is your assurance of dealing with a professional who has your best interests in mind.
The Code of Ethics consists of seventeen Articles and related Standards of Practice. The basic principles of the Code are summarized below.
Please note that the following is not a substitute for the Code, but simply a general overview of the Code’s key principles. For additional information about the Code of Ethics and its enforcement, speak with a REALTOR® or contact the local association of REALTORS® nearest you.
DUTIES TO CLIENTS & CUSTOMERS
Article 1-REALTORS® protect and promote their clients’ interests while treating all parties honestly.
Article 2-REALTORS® refrain from exaggeration, mis-representation, or concealment of pertinent facts related to property or transactions.
Article 3-REALTORS® cooperate with other real estate professionals to advance their clients’ best interests.
Article 4-When buying or selling on their own account or for their families or firms, REALTORS® make their true position or interest known.
Article 5-REALTORS® do not provide professional services where they have any present or contemplated interest in property without disclosing that interest to all affected parties.
Article 6-REALTORS® disclose any fee or financial benefit they may receive from recommend-ing related real estate products or services.
Article 7-REALTORS® receive compensation from only one party, except where they make full disclosure and receive informed consent from their client.
Article 8-REALTORS® keep entrusted funds of clients and customers in a separate escrow account
Article 9- REALTORS® make sure that contract details are spelled out in writing and that parties receive copies.
DUTIES TO THE PUBLIC
Article 10-REALTORS® give equal professional service to all clients and customers irrespective of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.
Article 11- REALTORS® are knowledgeable and competent in the fields of practice in which they engage or they get assistance from a knowledgeable professional, or disclose any lack of expertise to their client.
Article 12-REALTORS® paint a true picture in their advertising and in other public representations.
Article 13-REALTORS® do not engage in the unauthorized practice of law.
Article 14-REALTORS® willingly participate in ethics investigations and enforcement actions. Duties to REALTORS®
Article 15-REALTORS® make only truthful, objective comments about other real estate professionals.
Article 16-Respect the exclusive representation or exclusive brokerage relationship agreements that other REALTORS® have with their clients.
Article 17-REALTORS® arbitrate financial disagreements with other REALTORS® and with their clients.
REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE IN WASHINGTON
Introduction
This pamphlet provides general information about real estate brokerage and summarizes the laws related to real estate brokerage relationships. It describes a real estate broker’s duties to the seller/landlord and buyer/tenant. Detailed and complete information about real estate brokerage relationships is available in chapter 18.86 RCW.
If you have any questions about the information in this pamphlet, contact your broker or the designated broker of your broker’s firm.
Licensing and Supervision of Brokers
To provide real estate brokerage services in Washington, a broker must be licensed under chapter 18.85 RCW and licensed with a real estate firm, which also must be licensed. Each real estate firm has a designated broker who is responsible for supervising the brokers licensed with the firm. Some firms may have branch offices that are supervised by a branch manager and some firms may delegate certain supervisory duties to one or more managing brokers.
The Washington State Department of Licensing is responsible for enforcing all laws and rules relating to the conduct of real estate firms and brokers.
Agency Relationship
In an agency relationship, a broker is referred to as an “agent” and the seller/landlord and buyer/tenant is referred to as the “principal.” For simplicity, in this pamphlet, seller includes landlord, and buyer includes tenant.
For Sellers
A real estate firm and broker must enter into a written services agreement with a seller to establish an agency relationship. The firm will then appoint one or more brokers to be agents of the seller. The firm’s designated broker and any managing broker responsible for the supervision of those brokers are also agents of the seller.
For Buyers
A real estate firm and broker(s) who perform real estate brokerage services for a buyer establish an agency relationship by performing those services. The firm’s designated broker and any managing broker responsible for the supervision of that broker are also agents of the buyer. A written services agreement between the buyer and the firm must be entered into before, or as soon as reasonably practical after, a broker begins rendering real estate brokerage services to the buyer.
For both Buyer and Seller - as a Limited Dual Agent
A limited dual agent provides limited representation to both the buyer and the seller in a transaction. Limited dual agency requires the consent of each principal in a written services agreement and may occur in two situations: (1) When the buyer and the seller are represented by the same broker, in which case the broker’s designated broker and any managing broker responsible for the supervision of that broker are also limited dual agents; and (2) when the buyer and the seller are represented by different brokers in the same firm, in which case each broker solely represents the principal the broker was appointed to represent, but the broker’s designated broker and any managing broker responsible for the supervision of those brokers are limited dual agents.
Duration of Agency Relationship
Once established, an agency relationship continues until the earliest of the following:
1. Completion of performance by the broker;
2. Expiration of the term agreed upon by the parties;
3. Termination of the relationship by mutual agreement of the parties; or
4. Termination of the relationship by notice from either party to the other. However, such a termination does not affect the contractual rights of either party.
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Written Services Agreement
A written services agreement between the firm and principal must contain the following:
1. The term (duration) of the agreement;
2. Name of the broker(s) appointed to act as an agent for the principal;
3. Whether the agency relationship is exclusive (which does not allow the principal to enter into an agency relationship with another firm during the term) or nonexclusive (which allows the principal to enter into an agency relationship with multiple firms at the same time);
4. Whether the principal consents to limited dual agency;
5. The terms of compensation;
6. In an agreement with a buyer, whether the broker agrees to show a property when there is no agreement or offer by any party or firm to pay compensation to the broker’s firm; and
7. Any other agreements between the parties.
A Broker’s Duties to All Parties
A broker owes the following duties to all parties in a transaction:
1. To exercise reasonable skill and care;
2. To deal honestly and in good faith;
3. To timely present all written offers, written notices, and other written communications to and from either party;
4. To disclose all existing material facts known by the broker and not apparent or readily ascertainable to a party. A material fact includes information that substantially adversely affects the value of the property or a party’s ability to perform its obligations in a transaction, or operates to materially impair or defeat the purpose of the transaction. However, a broker does not have any duty to investigate matters that the broker has not agreed to investigate;
5. To account in a timely manner for all money and property received from or on behalf of either party;
6. To provide this pamphlet to all parties to whom the broker renders real estate brokerage services and to any unrepresented party;
7. To disclose in writing who the broker represents; and
8. To disclose in writing any terms of compensation offered by a party or a real estate firm to a real estate firm representing another party.
A Broker’s Duties to the Buyer or Seller
A broker owes the following duties to their principal (either the buyer or seller):
1. To be loyal to their principal by taking no action that is adverse or detrimental to their principal’s interest in a transaction;
2. To timely disclose to their principal any conflicts of interest;
3. To advise their principal to seek expert advice on matters relating to the transaction that are beyond the broker’s expertise;
4. To not disclose any confidential information from or about their principal; and
5. To make a good faith and continuous effort to find a property for the buyer or to find a buyer for the seller’s property, until the principal has entered a contract for the purchase or sale of property or as agreed otherwise in writing.
Limited Dual Agent Duties
A limited dual agent may not advocate terms favorable to one principal to the detriment of the other principal. A broker, acting as a limited dual agent, owes the following duties to both the buyer and seller:
1.To take no action that is adverse or detrimental to either principal’s interest in a transaction;
2.To timely disclose to both principals any conflicts of interest;
3.To advise both principals to seek expert advice on matters relating to the transaction that are beyond the limited dual agent’s expertise;
4.To not disclose any confidential information from or about either principal; and
5.To make a good faith and continuous effort to find a property for the buyer and to find a buyer for the seller’s property, until the principals have entered a contract for the purchase or sale of property or as agreed otherwise in writing.
Compensation
In any real estate transaction, a firm’s compensation may be paid by the seller, the buyer, a third party, or by sharing the compensation between firms. To receive compensation from any party, a firm must have a written services agreement with the party the firm represents (or provide a “Compensation Disclosure” to the buyer in a transaction for commercial real estate).
A services agreement must contain the following regarding compensation:
1.The amount the principal agrees to compensate the firm for broker’s services as an agent or limited dual agent;
2.The principal’s consent, if any, and any terms of such consent, to compensation sharing between firms and parties; and
3.The principal’s consent, if any, and any terms of such consent, to compensation of the firm by more than one party.
Short Sales
A “short sale” is a transaction where the seller’s proceeds from the sale are insufficient to cover seller’s obligations at closing (e.g., the seller’s outstanding mortgage is greater than the sale price). If a sale is a short sale, the seller’s real estate firm must disclose to the seller that the decision by any beneficiary or mortgagee, to release its interest in the property for less than the amount the seller owes to allow the sale to proceed, does not automatically relieve the seller of the obligation to pay any debt or costs remaining at closing, including real estate firms’ compensation.
