Jennifer Bolen - Seattle, WA Real Estate Agent - Seattle REALTOR

What year did you become a real estate agent?
1993

How many years have you been in Real Estate?
I have been in Real Estate in for over 14 years. I have been licensed in Washington State for the p

What is the average home price in your market?
The median home price in the Seattle area is $450,000

Are there any new developments or trends in your area?
There has been a trend in the Seattle area toward townhome and condo living. First time homebuyers or empty nesters are finding them to be a great alternative to both the costly single family home market and the perfect 'downsize' without the upkeep. Townhomes, many of them "zero lot line" (which means no monthly homeowners dues) can be found in virtually every community in and around Seattle. Another very popular trend has become downtown condo living. The downtown Seattle area has carved out some lovely neighborhoods that are vibrant and accessible day and night. These little 'villages' within the city offer local markets, coffee shops, restaraunts as well as dry cleaners, furniture stores, art galleries etc. Everything within walking distance. It has made downtown a great living destination as well as a fun place to visit, at virtually any time of the day or night! Finally, there is a further trend toward Estate homes. Many homebuyers are seeking out homes that are both spacious in space and land. Estate homes are also spread throughout the greater Seattle area, found in virtually every community. New construction or refurbished homes on large pieces of property (min. 15,000 sf lots on up to acreage). Bucking the trend of large homes on small lots the demand for larger pieces of property are on the rise!

Why do you enjoy being a real estate agent?
Real Estate has always been a personal passion for both my husband and I. We've enjoyed investing personally as well as the fun in finding a new home from time to time for our family. Never one to resist an "open house", I realized one day it was time to get my license and help others by doing what I really enjoy.

What is the most challenging issue you face as a Real Estate Professional?
Technology and Real Estate law are always changing. It is incumbant on me, when working with a client to be an expert in my field, I take that very seriously and spend the time and money to make certain that I stay abreast of those changes.

Tell us one of your client success stories or an interesting moment in your profession.
I've had a lot of thrills in this business, but the most exciting thing for me is watching my clients "investments" grow. Whether it is an owner occupied purchase or an investment, one of the things I really love is helping them get into a property that gives them financial reward as equity builds over the first few years. We are fortunate to be in a market where there property is still a good investment. All of my clients over the last few years have made five and six digit increases in the value of their properties. I've worked with a number of investors from all over the country and as far away as Hong Kong. It has been a really satisfying journey!

What is your best characteristic?
I'm tenacious and I look out for folks as if it is my own personal transaction. I'm a great negotiator and I am always prepared.

Who or what inspires you the most?
People who give back to their communities and the world inspire me the most. I love being around people who are not me, me, me but others, others, others.

What is the best advice you ever received?
Carpe Diem!

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I've travelled all over the world and I've never been to a place I didn't really enjoy. I've chosen Seattle to be home though, so that probably says a lot about my appreciation for this part of the world!