If you’re looking to buy a home in Bellingham, WA, you’re probably browsing listings online, attending open houses, and watching the market closely. But did you know that not all homes for sale are listed publicly? In fact, some of the best opportunities never hit the MLS—and working with the right real estate agent can give you access to both on-market and off-market homes.
Why Off-Market Matters in Bellingham
Bellingham’s real estate market continues to be competitive, especially for homes with unique features like waterviews or acreage. With low inventory and high buyer demand, it’s not uncommon for homes to sell quickly—or for desirable properties to get scooped up before ever being listed.
That’s where off-market opportunities come in. These are homes that aren’t actively listed for sale, but where the owner might be open to selling under the right conditions. Off-market deals can be time-consuming to source and negotiate, which is why not all real estate agents offer this service. But for buyers who are looking for something specific and haven’t found it on the market, an off-market strategy can be a game-changer.
Irena Kolbert: A Realtor Who Goes the Extra Mile
Unlike many agents, Irena Kolbert offers her clients access to both on-market and off-market opportunities. She understands that sometimes the perfect home simply isn’t listed—so she goes out and finds it.
One recent example involved buyers who were searching for a waterview home in Bellingham, WA with a budget under $900,000. There wasn’t anything available on the MLS that matched their criteria, so Irena tapped into her network, knocked on doors, and reached out to homeowners directly.
The result? She uncovered an off-market waterfront home priced at just $775,000—not only within budget, but also $20,000 under the appraised value. It was a true win for her clients, and a perfect example of what’s possible when your agent is willing to dig deeper.
Ready to Find Your Next Home?
Whether you’re looking at active listings or hoping to find a hidden gem off-market, having a dedicated and creative agent on your side makes all the difference. If you’re house hunting in Bellingham or the surrounding areas, reach out to Irena Kolbert today. She’ll help you explore all your options—and maybe even unlock a door you didn’t know existed.
Irena Kolbert
Bellingham, WA REALTOR®
Emerald Award-Winning Agent
360-712-6860
irenakolbert@gmail.com
