Ricardo “Rick” Romagosa & Christina “Kris” Richardson

Brokers, Realtors
Windermere Stellar
360-524-2376
RTeamNW.com

How long have you worked in Real Estate?
We’ve each been in the business almost four years, but have lots of cross over experience. Kris has extensive experience in building and remodeling, having been in the construction business for approximately 25 years. Both of us have experience with investment properties and property management. Rick is also licensed in Oregon, having approximately 3 years experience there.

What is your specialty?
Our specialty is our versatility thanks to our combined experience and knowledge base. Our satisfaction comes from helping people achieve their goals. Our focus is on residential, but we work the entire spectrum. With one of us being dual licensed, we have a fair amount of clients who are moving across the state line. It is much easier when there is one point of contact for two transactions.

What is one tip you have for someone looking to buy or sell a home?
Be prepared! By it’s nature, Real Estate is a long-term investment. Planning is key. If you’re buying, speaking with a loan officer early is recommended. If you’re selling, talk to a Realtor early. Both can give you advice that will save you time and money. An investment of both early can return huge rewards.

What is the most unique property you’ve listed or sold?
The most unique is a current listing of ours. It’s enormous, over 5,000/sf, with a swimming pool and upstairs indoor basketball court. Another unusual property was not a completed transaction, because the foundation was propped up using boulders and wood scraps. The stacked boulders resembled those you would see balanced at the beach.

What is the most unusual thing you’ve encountered while working in real estate?
One of the most unusual things was a toilet inside of the closet of the master bedroom. It wasn’t even a walk-in closet with ample space. It was a shallow closet with sliding doors, and the toilet was positioned parallel with the wall. You would slide the closet door and there was the toilet, with the TP holder notched in the drywall. There was a bathroom on the other side of the wall, and they must have tied it into that plumbing.

What is the most challenging/gratifying aspect of what you do?
Helping first time homebuyers is definitely the most challenging and gratifying. There is so much misinformation out there that can be discouraging. The truth is, there also so many programs and professionals willing to help make that dream a reality. The process can be frustrating, but once that goal is reached it is so extremely satisfying. It’s good for the soul.

What do you see in the future for real estate sales/prices?
The factors for increasing prices are still there. Inventory and interest rates are still low. If interest rates were to rise, or building were to catch up to the demand, we could see inventory start to reach more “normal” levels. Different price points move at varying rates, and location is always a contributor. But, we believe the market will stay strong for the foreseeable future. The greater Vancouver/Portland area is still a popular destination.

What do you enjoy doing when you are not working? Hobbies, volunteering, family, fun?
Contrary to a common perception, Real Estate is extremely demanding in order to be successful. Every transaction is as different because of personalities, properties and the ever-changing market. It doesn’t leave a lot of time for other things. In those rare instances of downtime, there is nothing better than spending time with friends or family. What we do is not nearly as important as to whom we’re with.

What do you like about living in this area?
There are so many things! The Pacific Northwest is a magical place. There is the natural beauty, of course. The people are friendly and welcoming. Compared to other parts of the country, the pace and lifestyle quality are comfortable. We benefit from lower taxes and more efficient government. The secret is out, however, which is why we see so many people flocking to SW Washington and the greater Portland area.

Anything else you would like our readers to know about you and your company?
We live and breathe real estate. We believe our passion for the business and loyalty to our clients shows in our customer service, negotiation, and dedication. We are in the business of creating a great experience, as we want life long clients – not just a one-time sale.
As a competitive as the current market we believe our clients benefit from our team approach and combined experience. We have earned CNE (Certified Negotiation Expert), VAMRES (VA & Military Real Estate Specialist) designations, and received specialized training through membership in the Windermere Senior Transitions Program. We are also members of the Greater Vancouver Luxury Homes association. Additionally, with extensive contacts in the community, ranging from: lenders, trades specialists, and engineers, we are well positioned to assist buyers and sellers on both sides of the river, in English and Spanish.