Leslie Simpson

Realtor
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices NW
360-828-5006
mywaverlyhomes.com

How long have you worked in Real Estate?
The start of my career in real estate coincides with the kick-off of building homes at Hidden Glen, Waverly Homes’ subdivision in Hazel Dell. Waverly Homes is a family owned and run business. My parents, Bob & Liz Rondeau, own Waverly Homes, and I am the listing agent for the subdivision. I’ve just finished my first year in real estate, and what a busy year it has been!

What is your specialty?
My specialty is definitely new construction as I’ve dived right into the world of home building. I love learning about the new home market, talking to buyers about what they are looking for in their new home, and helping meld the two together.

What is one tip you have for someone looking to buy or sell a home?
Get to know your market! If you are buying, take some time to drive around and see a range of homes in your price range. Inventory is low right now, so it’s important to know exactly what you want so that when you see it you can make an offer with confidence. Also, explore the new construction market… There are many advantages to buying a new home instead of one that needs updating, especially when they are in the same price range.
When it comes to selling your home, my advice is to take care in selecting your listing agent. The quality of your agent can make or break the sale of your home. Interview 3-4 Realtors and ask them: How did you arrive at the proposed price of my home? Do you have experience selling in this price range? What do you recommend I do to make my home more marketable? How are you going to advertise this listing? What makes you different than other brokers? Be selective, it will pay off!

What is the most unique property you’ve listed or sold?
My husband and I bought a lot in Camas with a stunning view of the Columbia River and Mt. Hood. We had big dreams to build a gorgeous master-on-main, daylight basement home. Then we had kids, and realized we didn’t want to live on a big hill. We had already gone through the design process and had the plans engineered, so we sold the lot and plans together to a family who is now going to build our dream home. It was definitely bittersweet, but the right choice for our family. I love driving by now and watching that house go up!

What is the most unusual thing you’ve encountered while working in real estate?
My first career is as a counselor, so I don’t think anything strikes me as unusual anymore!

What is the most challenging/gratifying aspect of what you do?
I love helping people get their dream home. Everyone knows that feeling of excitement when you finally get something you really, really want. The anticipation of a deal closing, getting keys to buyers, and watching the excitement as they start their life in a new home is incredibly rewarding.
Right now the challenging part for buyers is finding a home, as there are not many available. That’s what I love about being the Realtor at Hidden Glen, Buyers with any sort of timeline are finding what they are looking for. We have spec homes that are move-in ready, as well as pre-sale opportunities! I find that many buyers who have been searching fruitlessly for a long time are thrilled when they find our community.

What do you see in the future for real estate sales/prices?
In our area it’s a great time to buy a new house. Clark County has a higher proportion of “proposed” (homes not yet under construction) listings than other MLS areas. In June, almost 20% of the active listings in Clark County are under construction or proposed. I think more and more buyers will look to new construction, as it is readily available and affordable.

What do you enjoy doing when you are not working? Hobbies, volunteering, family, fun?
We have two daughters that I spend all of my time off with, Sadie is 2 and Hannah is 5 months. They are precious, adorable, and I love being their mom. My weekly “me” time is playing indoor soccer on Sundays. My husband and I love going on hikes (sans kiddos) and walking our Great Dane/Lab mix, Bubba. My favorite hobby is quilting, a passion I share with my 87-year-old Grandma Lucy who taught me to sew when I was 10.

What do you like about living in this area?
I grew up in Camas and always knew I wanted to raise my family here. After living in the Seattle area for nearly a decade and moving back home, I appreciate how people here are friendly, genuine, and welcoming. Like everyone else, I love having easy access to mountains, rivers, and the coast.

Anything else you would like our readers to know about you and your company?
If you are looking for a new home in the mid-200’s price range, you have to come by Hidden Glen before you make an offer on anything else. Our homes are Move-In Ready and come with slab-granite in kitchen, stainless steel appliances, refrigerator, washer & dryer, A/C, blinds, front yard landscaping & sprinkler system, fully fenced backyard and more! We are located off of NE 78[th] St & NE 30[th] Ave in Hazel Dell. Open House hours are Friday 2-6pm and Sat/Sun 11-3.