What Every Eastside
Homeowner Should Know
Before Listing
Most sellers pick the wrong agent for three predictable reasons. This guide — and a quick 9-question quiz — will show you exactly what to look for, and what to avoid.
Most Sellers Don’t Know
What They Don’t Know
The real estate industry makes it easy to get licensed and hard to tell the difference between a seasoned professional and someone who passed an exam last month. Here’s what actually separates them.
⚠ Beware of Pocket Listing Programs
Some brokerages promote “private” or “Coming Soon” networks that limit who can see your home before — or instead of — a full MLS launch. The research is clear: restricted-exposure listings net sellers less money. The only party who consistently benefits is the listing broker, who can collect both the buyer’s and seller’s commission when an in-house buyer closes the deal.
My recommendation: Insist on a full, simultaneous MLS launch on your agreed date — after staging and photography are complete. Washington State SB 6091 (effective June 2026) now requires this. Ask any agent you interview to confirm their policy in writing.
Managing Broker License
Washington State’s highest real estate license. Not an entry-level salesperson. Full independent authority, no supervision required.
No Dual Agency
I never represent both buyer and seller in the same transaction. Your interests are never compromised for a double commission.
20+ Years Eastside Focus
Born and raised on the Eastside — Redmond, Bellevue, Kirkland. Deep knowledge of every neighborhood, school district, and market cycle.
Paid Advertising
Google, Meta, and retargeting campaigns. Not just MLS and a social post. Real dollars behind every listing.
Direct Communication
You work with me, not an assistant or junior team member. Updates after every showing. Full transparency on ad performance.
Transparent Agreement Terms
Clear listing agreement. No hidden fees. You know what’s included, what’s not, and how to exit if needed.
Broker
Highest WA License
Third-Generation
Eastsider
I grew up in Redmond, lived in Bellevue, and have called Kirkland home for years. My family has been on the Eastside for three generations — long before the tech boom reshaped the market. I know these neighborhoods not just as a broker, but as a neighbor.
Over 20 years as a Managing Broker, I’ve worked alongside most of the agents in this market. I know who negotiates straight, who plays games, and how to position your home to attract the right buyers.
What Eastside Sellers Say
“Justin is by far the best real estate agent we have worked with. He quickly understands your needs and is able to customize showings accordingly. His advice helped us through a tough real estate market on both occasions.”
“The thing I loved most about working with Justin is his style of communication — I rarely had to ping him to get updates. He made sure to always listen to my requirements and explain the pros and cons of all approaches.”
“Justin’s capabilities in all areas of Real Estate are amazing. He approaches each situation with insight and proficiency. He helped us sell a home, buy a home, and navigate multiple transactions over the years.”
“Justin has helped us with a house sale, a house purchase, a land purchase, the setup of a room rental, and a relative’s house sale. His balance of knowledge, energy, and attention to detail is unmatched.”
“I’m not sure I can put into words how AMAZING Justin is. He is the consummate professional — responsive, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in your outcome.”
“This Summer we bought our Dream Home through Justin. I’m a type-A personality and I’m not easy to work with — but Justin helped my family find exactly what we were looking for.”
The 8-Step Selling Process
Every step has a purpose. Click any step to see why it matters.
More Than MLS.
A Full-Funnel
Marketing Strategy.
“We post on social” is not a marketing plan. Every listing gets a dedicated paid ad budget, retargeting, and database exposure — not just an MLS entry.
MLS (NWMLS)
Syndicated to Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com, and 100+ portals
Google Ads
Search campaigns targeting buyers actively searching in your price range and zip code
Meta Ads
Targeted by income, location, and life events (recent move, growing family)
Retargeting
Re-engages buyers who viewed your listing but didn’t take action
Email Database
Direct exposure to active buyers and buyer’s agents in my network
Professional Photography
HDR, twilight, drone, floor plans, and video walkthrough
Open Houses
Strategically scheduled. Buyer feedback collected after each.
Social Media
Instagram and Facebook organic + boosted posts to local audiences
Is Your Agent the Right Fit?
9 questions. 3 minutes. Identifies the most common — and costly — mistakes sellers make when choosing representation.
What license level does your agent hold?
In Washington State, a “broker” is an entry-level salesperson license with a low barrier to entry. A Managing Broker is the highest license level — requiring additional education, experience, and testing.
See How Justin Compares
Enter your info below and get a free side-by-side comparison — no pressure, no obligation.
Justin Cicero · Managing Broker · Real Broker LLC · Bellevue, WA
Find Out What Your
Eastside Home Is Worth
No obligation. No pressure. A 15-minute conversation to review your home’s current market position, your goals, and whether we’re the right fit to work together.