James Bergstrom - Paramount Real Estate Group

06/01/2026

Everyone knows Kitsap is cheaper than Seattle, but do you know the real monthly savings after taxes, fees, and commuting costs? The math is changing, especially heading into 2026. While Kitsap prices have climbed, understanding the actual financial impact is more crucial than ever.

06/01/2026

A lot of people have been waiting for rates to drop or prices to come down before making a move. But the reality is, sometimes life changes before the market does.
A growing family.
An empty nest.
A new job.
Retirement.
Needing to be closer to loved ones.

Those are the real reasons 1 in 5 buyers last year said they felt like they had to move, no matter the market. Because life doesn't wait for the timing to be perfect.

And if that’s where you are right now, you can still move. You may even have more options than you think. You just need someone who can help you find them.

05/31/2026

The Truth About Affordability Today

Yes, rates have been volatile, and global instability is keeping them from settling down anytime soon. There’s no sugar coating that. But the full picture of affordability is more nuanced than the headlines suggest.

Want to run the real numbers for your situation? Let's talk. Reach out and let's set up a quick, no-pressure conversation.

Let's be real with each other for a second about affordability.

05/30/2026

A month ago I watched my little love dove walk down the aisle.

And I’m still not over it. ♥️

The same shy little girl who used to bury her face in her wagon. Who crawled up on my lap like the world was too big. Who defended her daddy at every turn and stole bases like it was her job.

A month ago she walked toward her future and I got to be the one beside her for those last few steps. I don’t take that lightly. I never will.

Marisol, a month in and I still find myself thinking about that moment. The way you looked. The way the room felt. The way everything I ever hoped for you was standing right there at the end of that aisle. You have grown into one of the most incredible human beings I have ever known. Full of love. Full of faith. Full of heart. Being your dad has been one of the greatest gifts of my life.

And Cale, one month in, son. How’s it going? We’re praying for you both every single day. You married well and so did she. Take care of each other. Keep God at the center. We are in your corner always.

To Marisol and Cale, one month down. A lifetime to go. May it be full of laughter, faith, and a love that only gets stronger with every passing year.

I love you both more than words.

❤️ Dad B

05/29/2026

Don't let hidden maintenance costs surprise you. Understanding property type, septic or sewer, water source, tree proximity, and roof condition reveals your true annual expenses. This framework can save you thousands on your purchase.

05/29/2026

The Real Reason Some People Are Still Moving Right Now

Life changes. Priorities shift. Families grow. Kids move out. Careers evolve. And eventually, the house you’re in may stop fitting the life you’re living.

If that’s been weighing on you lately, let’s talk through what your options could realistically look like today, no matter where rates or prices are.

Life can’t always wait for perfect market conditions. Maybe you don’t have to either.

You may be telling yourself you’re going to wait to move – maybe you’re hoping mortgage rates will come down, prices will fall, or the market will feel a little easier.

05/26/2026

Imagine a final walkthrough, everything perfect, then... where's the refrigerator? A simple misunderstanding of the 'included items' clause can lead to major disputes. In real estate, if you want it, write it down. Paperwork matters.

05/25/2026

Nearly 40% of potential sellers say they're planning to offer concessions this year – up from 30% in 2025.

That increase means you could see more flexibility on things like sellers covering your closing costs, adjusting the price, or making repairs.

But what’s worth asking for and what’s a long shot will vary depending on where you’re looking. That’s where I can help.

DM me and let's talk about what concessions make sense in our market. Because, for buyers, the right ask could save you thousands.

05/24/2026

Now might be a smart time to look at newly built homes.

Builders are motivated to keep their inventory moving, so they’re offering incentives like mortgage rate buydowns and closing cost help to draw in buyers.

It also means they may be more flexible on price. In fact, the median price for newly built homes just hit a five-year low for this exact reason.

Builder perks and lower prices? That’s a combo worth paying attention to.

DM me to talk through what’s available in our area and which builders are offering the best incentives today.