Barbara Bartlett

How long have you worked in Real Estate?
Since 1983.

What is your specialty?
Residential and Relocation; Acreage Properties; Move-Up Buyers and the Downsizing Sellers too. Since moving here from Phoenix I also have represented many seniors with their real estate needs. First Time Home Buyers and New Home Construction are also represented as well.

What is one tip you have for someone looking to buy or sell a home?
Like so many agents that have been in this column before me, it is important to interview several agents; get referrals from others as to which agent they recommended. Visit some Open Houses and see the agent at work. Listening to your needs are the most important.

What is the most unique property you’ve listed or sold?
We all have a special story but one here in Washington was an estate property in North County that had been willed to a congregation. The church had never resided on the property. There were several older manufactured homes on the land, two not allowed, plus a lot of stored materials and debris that needed to be removed. Additionally there was a compromised septic drain field. Unique because you think it might not sell, but sell it did. There is almost always a buyer for a fixer.

What is the most unusual thing you’ve encountered while working in real estate?
The great opportunity to meet so many wonderful people–buyers, sellers…You become close for a short duration but stay friends for many years. Such a wonderful business.

What is the most challenging/gratifying aspect of what you do?
Challenging is the speed at which our industry has changed. Technology has completely changed how we do real estate from years past. Buyers and Sellers can get almost immediate access to information and that is the tempo of our market these days. Also, I might mention how often our forms and systems keep changing….A sign of the times.

What do you see in the future for real estate sales/prices?
It is still a strong market with a shortage of inventory and many buyers moving to the Pacific Northwest. I believe the market will be good for several more years.

What do you enjoy doing when you are not working? Hobbies, volunteering, family, fun?
On my bucket list several years ago was to attend the Master Gardening Class offered by WSU. I signed up, took the class, read the books, took the test and then went crazy gardening. I typically start too many seeds; grow too many plants; make too much jam and jelly, but love to share the bounty. Probably won’t plant 55 tomato plants this year!
So gardening, Reading and Cooking are enjoyed by my husband Mike and myself. We have eight grandchildren and two greats in the Pacific Northwest.

What do you like about living in this area?
It is exciting to show relocating buyers all the wonderful advantages this area provides. Easy access to Portland; Seattle, the beach, rivers, fishing, skiing. We love it all.

Anything else you would like our readers to know about you and your company?
Lots of seasoned agents here and newly licensed agents joining quite often. James Kimball gives back to our community with support for Free School supplies in August; a Movie night planned for our clients and children at a local theatre; and making home made holiday decorations and photos with Santa are some of the programs his company provides for the community.