Have you ever wondered what truly determines your home's value? In this eye-opening conversation with veteran appraiser Alan, we pull back the curtain on the mysterious world of property appraisals and discover that your home's worth can be mathematically broken down into surprisingly precise components.

Alan takes us on a journey through his unexpected career path from religious studies to becoming a respected appraiser on Whidbey Island, offering rare insights into how the profession has evolved since the 1980s. He explains how the 2008 housing crisis fundamentally transformed the industry, creating a firewall between lenders and appraisers through Appraisal Management Companies to prevent the manipulation that contributed to the financial meltdown.

The conversation reveals fascinating distinctions between conventional and government-backed loans, with VA and FHA appraisals requiring more rigorous inspections of everything from attics to utilities. You'll learn why that bare wood on your deck might fail a government appraisal while passing a conventional one, and why the appraiser is checking if your oven works.

Perhaps most valuable is Alan's breakdown of the "value pie" – how an appraiser mathematically determines what your home is worth. Square footage might account for 30% of your home's value, while that stunning water view could represent 12%. Understanding these components helps explain why homes sell for what they do, and why sometimes properties appraise for $250,000 over asking price when multiple offers come in.

If you're buying, selling, or simply curious about real estate, this conversation provides essential context about how property values work in today's market. And the warning about a looming appraiser shortage might just explain why your next home purchase takes longer than expected to close.

Reid Schwartz is not just a real estate broker; he’s a dedicated leader and active participant in the Whidbey Island community. A Navy veteran and 30-year island resident, Reid brings a unique perspective and deep-rooted passion to his work. As a proud Rotarian and a founding board member of North Whidbey Hearts and Hammers, he’s committed to making a difference in the lives of those around him. He also serves as the organization’s Public Relations Director, always on the lookout for volunteers eager to give back.

Whether it’s helping clients buy or sell their homes, connecting locals with community resources, or creating opportunities for neighbors to support one another, Reid is driven by a desire to make Whidbey Island a better place. He’s always looking for creative ways to help—whether it’s growing local businesses or offering a hand to those in need. For Reid, it’s about more than just real estate; it’s about building a stronger, more connected community through kindness, collaboration, and service.

Reid can be reached:
Phone: (360) 929-4808
Email: [email protected]
Website: reidschwartz.com

Reid Schwartz is not just a real estate broker; he’s a dedicated leader and active participant in the Whidbey Island community. A Navy veteran and 30-year island resident, Reid brings a unique perspective and deep-rooted passion to his work. As a proud Rotarian and a founding board member of North Whidbey Hearts and Hammers, he’s committed to making a difference in the lives of those around him. He also serves as the organization’s Public Relations Director, always on the lookout for volunteers eager to give back.

Whether it’s helping clients buy or sell their homes, connecting locals with community resources, or creating opportunities for neighbors to support one another, Reid is driven by a desire to make Whidbey Island a better place. He’s always looking for creative ways to help—whether it’s growing local businesses or offering a hand to those in need. For Reid, it’s about more than just real estate; it’s about building a stronger, more connected community through kindness, collaboration, and service.

Reid can be reached:
Phone: (360) 929-4808
Email: [email protected]
Website: reidschwartz.com

Discover the vibrant and exciting atmosphere of Tossin Axes, a unique entertainment venue that combines axe throwing with arcade games. Reed Schwartz talks with owner Daniel Cadwell about how this hub fosters community enjoyment and provides thrilling experiences for all.

• Introduction of Tossin Axes and its ownership transition 
• Insights into axe throwing training and encouragement for first-timers 
• Overview of the diverse entertainment offerings from pinball machines to retro games 
• Membership details and community value 

If you enjoyed today’s discussion or have your own axe throwing tales, share them with us! 

Reid Schwartz is not just a real estate broker; he’s a dedicated leader and active participant in the Whidbey Island community. A Navy veteran and 30-year island resident, Reid brings a unique perspective and deep-rooted passion to his work. As a proud Rotarian and a founding board member of North Whidbey Hearts and Hammers, he’s committed to making a difference in the lives of those around him. He also serves as the organization’s Public Relations Director, always on the lookout for volunteers eager to give back.

Whether it’s helping clients buy or sell their homes, connecting locals with community resources, or creating opportunities for neighbors to support one another, Reid is driven by a desire to make Whidbey Island a better place. He’s always looking for creative ways to help—whether it’s growing local businesses or offering a hand to those in need. For Reid, it’s about more than just real estate; it’s about building a stronger, more connected community through kindness, collaboration, and service.

Reid can be reached:
Phone: (360) 929-4808
Email: [email protected]
Website: reidschwartz.com

In today's episode of Whidbey Island Living, we’re getting an exclusive look into the life of Jessie Abrahamson, the passionate owner behind AB Hillbilly Gyros & AB Icecream Parlor. From navigating challenges by being a mom and juggling the business, Jessie’s dedication shines through in every detail. Watch as she shares her journey from being a service crew to managing a booming business of food trucks and restaurants.

🌟𝙂𝙀𝙏 𝘼 𝘾𝙃𝘼𝙉𝘾𝙀 𝙏𝙊 𝙒𝙄𝙉 𝘼 𝙁𝙍𝙀𝙀 𝙈𝙀𝘼𝙇 𝙒𝙃𝙀𝙉 𝙔𝙊𝙐 𝙎𝙃𝘼𝙍𝙀 𝙏𝙃𝙄𝙎 𝙑𝙄𝘿𝙀𝙊🌟
Mechanics:
1. Must Like the Youtube Video
2. Subscribed to the Youtube Channel
3. Share the video Publicly on FACEBOOK with the hashtag #𝙒𝙄𝙇𝘼𝘽𝙃𝙞𝙡𝙡𝘽𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙮 and tag Reid Schwartz.

𝙒𝙄𝙉𝙉𝙀𝙍 𝙒𝙄𝙇𝙇 𝘽𝙀 𝘼𝙉𝙉𝙊𝙐𝙉𝘾𝙀𝘿 𝙊𝙉 𝙁𝙀𝘽𝙍𝙐𝘼𝙍𝙔 26, 2025 🎉

GOODLUCK!


AB Hillbilly Gyros & AB Icecream Parlor: https://www.abshillbillygyros.com/
Jessie Abrahamson:   / jessie.abrahamson   

Reid Schwartz is not just a real estate broker; he’s a dedicated leader and active participant in the Whidbey Island community. A Navy veteran and 30-year island resident, Reid brings a unique perspective and deep-rooted passion to his work. As a proud Rotarian and a founding board member of North Whidbey Hearts and Hammers, he’s committed to making a difference in the lives of those around him. He also serves as the organization’s Public Relations Director, always on the lookout for volunteers eager to give back.

Whether it’s helping clients buy or sell their homes, connecting locals with community resources, or creating opportunities for neighbors to support one another, Reid is driven by a desire to make Whidbey Island a better place. He’s always looking for creative ways to help—whether it’s growing local businesses or offering a hand to those in need. For Reid, it’s about more than just real estate; it’s about building a stronger, more connected community through kindness, collaboration, and service.

Reid can be reached:
Phone: (360) 929-4808
Email: [email protected]
Website: reidschwartz.com

Reid Schwartz is not just a real estate broker; he’s a dedicated leader and active participant in the Whidbey Island community. A Navy veteran and 30-year island resident, Reid brings a unique perspective and deep-rooted passion to his work. As a proud Rotarian and a founding board member of North Whidbey Hearts and Hammers, he’s committed to making a difference in the lives of those around him. He also serves as the organization’s Public Relations Director, always on the lookout for volunteers eager to give back.

Whether it’s helping clients buy or sell their homes, connecting locals with community resources, or creating opportunities for neighbors to support one another, Reid is driven by a desire to make Whidbey Island a better place. He’s always looking for creative ways to help—whether it’s growing local businesses or offering a hand to those in need. For Reid, it’s about more than just real estate; it’s about building a stronger, more connected community through kindness, collaboration, and service.

Reid can be reached:
Phone: (360) 929-4808
Email: [email protected]
Website: reidschwartz.com

Orlando Stoneham, the youngest son of entrepreneur Jackie Stoneham, shares the story of Orlando's Southern Barbecue in Oak Harbor. The business has become a beloved tradition on Whidbey Island, known for its delicious Southern cuisine. Orlando and his four brothers have played a key role in the growth of the business, which started as a humble food truck at local farmers markets in Oak Harbor and Coupeville. Five years ago, they achieved a significant milestone by opening their brick-and-mortar restaurant. In my interview with Orlando, we delve into the journey of transitioning from a food truck to a fully-fledged restaurant and popular bar! 🏡

Stay tuned and stay inspired!

And as always. Have an Amazing Whidbey island day

Reid Schwartz
Realtor
eXp Realty
(360) 929-4808
[email protected]
website: reidschwartz.com

Jonas Roseburg
Mortgage Lender 💰
Summit Funding
‭(509) 851-3402‬
[email protected]

🎙️ Podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4l3DyKzE4JrSwtUnT3jk7B
😎 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whidbeyreid/
📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whidbeyreid/
🔗 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whidbeyreid/
📅 Set an Appointment with Reid:  https://calendly.com/reidschwartz/client-consultation

Reid and his wife went above and beyond anything I ever expected. When things went south with the appraisal, Reid went above and beyond to ensure everything was needed to get into our home. Reid always had calming words and a sense of humor. If we were to buy a home again we wouldn't want Anyone but Reid and his wife to be our realtors.

#whidbeyisland #oakharbor #naswhidbey #realtor #realtorforlife #sellmyhome #exprealty #kellerwilliams #windermere #betterhomesandgardens #whidbeyislandliving #whidbeyreid #reidschwartz

Reid Schwartz is not just a real estate broker; he’s a dedicated leader and active participant in the Whidbey Island community. A Navy veteran and 30-year island resident, Reid brings a unique perspective and deep-rooted passion to his work. As a proud Rotarian and a founding board member of North Whidbey Hearts and Hammers, he’s committed to making a difference in the lives of those around him. He also serves as the organization’s Public Relations Director, always on the lookout for volunteers eager to give back.

Whether it’s helping clients buy or sell their homes, connecting locals with community resources, or creating opportunities for neighbors to support one another, Reid is driven by a desire to make Whidbey Island a better place. He’s always looking for creative ways to help—whether it’s growing local businesses or offering a hand to those in need. For Reid, it’s about more than just real estate; it’s about building a stronger, more connected community through kindness, collaboration, and service.

Reid can be reached:
Phone: (360) 929-4808
Email: [email protected]
Website: reidschwartz.com

Deception Pass State Park is the most visited park in the State of Washington and the crown jewel of Whidbey Island.  Reid has a great conversation with Jason Armstrong, Deception Pass State Park - Park Manager

Reid Schwartz is not just a real estate broker; he’s a dedicated leader and active participant in the Whidbey Island community. A Navy veteran and 30-year island resident, Reid brings a unique perspective and deep-rooted passion to his work. As a proud Rotarian and a founding board member of North Whidbey Hearts and Hammers, he’s committed to making a difference in the lives of those around him. He also serves as the organization’s Public Relations Director, always on the lookout for volunteers eager to give back.

Whether it’s helping clients buy or sell their homes, connecting locals with community resources, or creating opportunities for neighbors to support one another, Reid is driven by a desire to make Whidbey Island a better place. He’s always looking for creative ways to help—whether it’s growing local businesses or offering a hand to those in need. For Reid, it’s about more than just real estate; it’s about building a stronger, more connected community through kindness, collaboration, and service.

Reid can be reached:
Phone: (360) 929-4808
Email: [email protected]
Website: reidschwartz.com

Shane Hoffmire, Oak Harbor City Councilman and Mayorial candidate discuss events happening in the City of Oak Harbor and why Shane is running for Mayor of Oak Harbor.

Reid Schwartz is not just a real estate broker; he’s a dedicated leader and active participant in the Whidbey Island community. A Navy veteran and 30-year island resident, Reid brings a unique perspective and deep-rooted passion to his work. As a proud Rotarian and a founding board member of North Whidbey Hearts and Hammers, he’s committed to making a difference in the lives of those around him. He also serves as the organization’s Public Relations Director, always on the lookout for volunteers eager to give back.

Whether it’s helping clients buy or sell their homes, connecting locals with community resources, or creating opportunities for neighbors to support one another, Reid is driven by a desire to make Whidbey Island a better place. He’s always looking for creative ways to help—whether it’s growing local businesses or offering a hand to those in need. For Reid, it’s about more than just real estate; it’s about building a stronger, more connected community through kindness, collaboration, and service.

Reid can be reached:
Phone: (360) 929-4808
Email: [email protected]
Website: reidschwartz.com

Getting to know your neighbors is not as common as it once was, and having a safe place to live is pretty important. Here in our community, we have neighbors who own their homes, but due to health problems and financial limitations, they cannot maintain their homes as safe places to live.
Homes that are not maintained will eventually fall apart. Nothing lasts forever.

North Whideby Hearts and Hammers is a non-profit group that aims to keep our neighbors in safe homes and build community in the process.

You can contact North Whidbey Hearts and Hammers to Volunteer, make a donation, or apply for assistance for yourself or a neighbor.
Phone/message: (360) 499-2005
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://nwheartsandhammers.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NWHeartsandhammers/

Reid Schwartz is not just a real estate broker; he’s a dedicated leader and active participant in the Whidbey Island community. A Navy veteran and 30-year island resident, Reid brings a unique perspective and deep-rooted passion to his work. As a proud Rotarian and a founding board member of North Whidbey Hearts and Hammers, he’s committed to making a difference in the lives of those around him. He also serves as the organization’s Public Relations Director, always on the lookout for volunteers eager to give back.

Whether it’s helping clients buy or sell their homes, connecting locals with community resources, or creating opportunities for neighbors to support one another, Reid is driven by a desire to make Whidbey Island a better place. He’s always looking for creative ways to help—whether it’s growing local businesses or offering a hand to those in need. For Reid, it’s about more than just real estate; it’s about building a stronger, more connected community through kindness, collaboration, and service.

Reid can be reached:
Phone: (360) 929-4808
Email: [email protected]
Website: reidschwartz.com

In this episode of Whidbey Island Living, Liz Lange, the Director of Senior Services for the City of Oak Harbor, joins us to discuss the three major challenges facing seniors today: isolation and loneliness, the risk of falling, and more. Liz oversees The Center, a vital resource for adults 50 and older, providing everything from educational programs and fitness classes to social events and travel opportunities.

This episode is a must-listen for everyone—whether you’re a senior or have loved ones who are aging. The issues of isolation and loneliness are all too real, but there are solutions. Liz highlights the ways The Center is helping seniors stay active, engaged, and connected right here in our community.

For more information about The Center and the programs available, contact them at:

Phone: 360-279-4580
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.oakharbor.gov/361/Senior-Services
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCenterOH
Address: 51 SE Jerome Street
Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Reid Schwartz is not just a real estate broker; he’s a dedicated leader and active participant in the Whidbey Island community. A Navy veteran and 30-year island resident, Reid brings a unique perspective and deep-rooted passion to his work. As a proud Rotarian and a founding board member of North Whidbey Hearts and Hammers, he’s committed to making a difference in the lives of those around him. He also serves as the organization’s Public Relations Director, always on the lookout for volunteers eager to give back.

Whether it’s helping clients buy or sell their homes, connecting locals with community resources, or creating opportunities for neighbors to support one another, Reid is driven by a desire to make Whidbey Island a better place. He’s always looking for creative ways to help—whether it’s growing local businesses or offering a hand to those in need. For Reid, it’s about more than just real estate; it’s about building a stronger, more connected community through kindness, collaboration, and service.

Reid can be reached:
Phone: (360) 929-4808
Email: [email protected]
Website: reidschwartz.com