Introducing Jessi Border - Real Estate Expert in Whatcom County & Beyond

We’re thrilled to welcome the newest member of the Weitzel & Andrew Home Team, Jessi Border! As a veteran and president of Growing Veterans, she brings unmatched expertise in VA loans and a passion for helping fellow service members, first-time buyers, and anyone ready to find their ideal home, or sell their Whatcom County property!

With a love for and dedication to guiding and educating her clients, Jessi is ready to help you find your perfect corner of the Pacific Northwest. Keep reading to get to know Jessi, what drives her, and why she’s so excited to help you navigate the Washington real estate market!

What are the top locations/areas that you serve?

Feel free to list any top areas that apply!

I serve primarily Sudden Valley, Bellingham, and Whatcom County.

Do you have a type of clientele that you feel is an area of expertise for you?

First-time home buyers, seniors, out-of-town relocations?

I am very involved in the local veteran community and am a veteran myself.

What inspired you to become a real estate agent?

What sparked the passion for helping people find “home”? What is at the heart of your "why"?

I grew up on a small ranch where I helped my dad update and add on to our ranch house. I absolutely loved growing up on a small ranch and have a lifetime of memories that I cherish. It was an investment he made in the 80's that allowed him to retire young in the 2000's. That is where I learned the power of home ownership for long-term wealth. After the military I started buying my own homes and saw the importance of working with an agent who knew the ins and outs of the VA loan. When it was time for a career change, I knew I wanted to be the go to expert for my fellow veterans.

What excites you most about working in Whatcom County real estate?

Whether it's the neighborhoods, the people, or the views, we love hearing what draws people to this market.

I absolutely love Whatcom County! It is so fun to be a local guide to my clients who are looking to move here. From the small town feel to the endless outdoor recreation, this is our little slice of paradise. As a Californian transplant (don't hold it against me) I can also guide people on what to expect when moving here, that may be very different then where they came from.

How would you describe your approach to helping buyers and sellers?

Tell us your superpower.

I really lean into education from the beginning. I find it is easier to lay out what to expect and  answer any questions or address any reservations from the start. I also remain calm and remind my clients we will work through any hurdles that come together. I offer reassurance and a listening ear whenever they need.

What’s your favorite hidden gem in Whatcom County?

From tucked-away coffee shops to underrated parks, share your insider tip!

Marine Park in Fairhaven. I tend to go here when I need to clear my mind and take a breath. It's usually not crowded and offers stunning views and fresh sea air.

What’s one thing you always tell your clients before they list their home?

Give us your best home-selling advice in one sentence.

A buyer knows within the first 5 minutes of walking into your home if they love it or dislike it. First impressions are everything.

If you could only give one tip to first-time homebuyers, what would it be? Anything that stuck with you from buying your first home?

Buyers are always looking for gold nuggets of wisdom. What’s yours?

Find a great local lender, they make a bigger difference than you realize in the home buying process.

What’s one of your favorite home styles and why?

Are you drawn to mid-century, cozy cottage, sleek and modern?

Victorian homes. I love history and they are full of it!

Coffee or tea before a big day of showings?

We need to know what’s fueling your real estate hustle!

Coffee, lots of coffee....

When you’re not helping clients, what’s your favorite way to spend the weekend?

Let’s hear about hobbies, side passions, or your favorite day-off activities.

I really like to cook, specifically BBQ. I was stationed in Texas and fell in love with the BBQ. I also love to hike, luckily Whatcom County has lot's of great ones!

What's one thing that's surprised you about working in real estate? If you could give your past self one piece of advice before starting, what would it be?

Anything you weren't expecting?

Work life balance becomes harder than you think. Agents work 24/7 and managing your time efficiently is key. It is also important to set boundaries so you can stay fresh for your clients and your family.

What’s one fun or unexpected fact about you?

Do you play the ukulele? Have a hidden talent? Been to 20 countries? Don’t hold back!

I play the drums! I wouldn't say I am great, but I love it.

What's something you enjoy about being part of a real estate team?

We want to know what inspired you to join us!

The support you get from a great team is invaluable. Not having to be a "one women show" is better for both my clients and I.

What’s your favorite season for real estate in Whatcom County, and what makes it special?

Which season feels the most exciting?

The summers in the PNW are beautiful and almost every home shows well because of it. People are just generally in a great mood during summer.

What’s your favorite part of helping someone close on their dream home or achieve their real estate goals? Do you have a go-to way to celebrate?

Give us all the warm and fuzzy feels! We love hearing how agents make closing day extra special.

I really enjoy putting together a thoughtful closing basket and being there at the closing table with them. I try to take notes throughout the transaction about their family, history, likes and dislikes so I can add that special touch to the gifts.

Is there anything else you'd like for people to know about you?

This can be anything you'd like to share!

Helping the local veteran community is very important to me. I am president of a local non profit called Growing Veterans, whose mission is to cultivate purpose and community among veterans and civilians. So many vets lose their way after getting out and that can lead to a very dark path. Non profits like Growing Veterans have literally saved lives and have brought people out of those dark places. I educate myself on all of the local resources available in our community.

Welcome to the Weitzel & Andrew Home Team, we're so glad you're here!

We’re SO excited to have Jessi joining us! If you’d like to reach out to her about your real estate needs, give her a call at 360-510-4820 or email her at JBorder@remax.net.