A lifetime in Marin.
Marin County native Ian Ivarson is a top-producing real estate agent with Vanguard Properties, recognized for his deep local expertise, strategic approach, and exceptional results. Known for his integrity, genuine warmth, and unwavering dedication to clients, Ian has earned a reputation for skilled negotiation, discreet representation, and a highly personalized real estate experience.
Ian was named Best Real Estate Agent in Marin for 2026 by San Francisco Magazine and Modern Luxury, and ranks among the top 1.5% of real estate agents nationally by RealTrends Verified for 2025. His track record also includes ranking in the top 0.5% of agents in the BAREIS MLS in 2023 and leading his former brokerage, Avenue 8, in Marin sales volume from 2021 through 2023. These accomplishments reflect years of consistent results for buyers and sellers.
Born and raised in Marin, Ian brings a lifetime of firsthand knowledge of its communities, neighborhoods, and real estate market. Having personally owned homes on both sides of the Golden Gate Bridge for more than 20 years, and from a family with decades of commercial real estate ownership in Marin, he offers a distinctive perspective on property ownership, investment, and long-term value.
Before becoming a full-time agent, Ian founded IVAR, an innovative backpack company and sales pioneered the brand into over 330 retail locations. Through IVAR, he has donated over $150,000 of backpacks to in-need youths in Africa and South America. His entrepreneurial background has complimented Ian’s clients, his business acumen, creative problem-solving, and a results-driven mindset.
Ian graduated from the University of Denver with a bachelor's degree in Finance and Marketing, where he competed as an NCAA Division I swimmer for the Denver Pioneers. A devoted husband and father of twins, he lives with his family in San Anselmo.
Enthusiastic, competitive,
and goal oriented.
A competitive swimmer since the age of four in the Marin Swim League, Ian went on to compete as an NCAA Division I athlete at the University of Denver. His lifelong passion for athletics and competition remains an integral part of who he is. Still exercising nearly every morning, Ian brings that same discipline, determination, energy, and winning mentality to his real estate career, always striving to deliver exceptional results.
Experience centered on you.
When you work with Ian, he’s your sole point of contact from start to finish. You are never passed off or lose continuity. You benefit from Ian’s full involvement along with the support of his team. The result is a streamlined, personal experience backed by deep experience.
Jennifer Kuschner
Transaction Coordinator
Jennifer Kuschner and Ian have been working together for years. The mountain of paperwork with every real estate transaction is immense. Jennifer ensures every “i” is dotted and every “t” is crossed. Her thoroughness ensures a complete file, maximizing transparency, and helps deliver a smooth and enjoyable experience for clients.
Testimonials.
Don’t just take our word for it. Below are some reviews from the clients.
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Working with Ian was fantastic. We were introduced by a mutual friend. From the start, he was super personable and ultimately sold our property for more than I thought was possible. Very professional and knowledgeable, Ian utilized his connections to quickly prepare our property. Within a week of going live, he had it in contract. He was always available and super communicative.
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Ian found us our dream house, and we could not have been happier with his service. Ian is extremely professional and courteous, and has a great knowledge of the local markets. Further, Ian is very punctual and is excellent at staying on top of new properties, and making himself available at the last minute.
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My wife and I just closed on our first property in Berkeley. Ian was a fantastic resource for us first-time homebuyers. He was responsive, knowledgeable, and very eager and willing to help us understand the ins and outs of the overall home buying journey. He was our unquestioned go-to person throughout the process. With Ian’s guidance and support, we were able to quickly identify a property and close on that property. We couldn’t have done it without him. We will be recommending him to family and friends in the future and would love to partner with him again if/when we are looking to buy again.
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It was a pleasure working with Ian to sell my home. He brought a sound strategy and guided the entire process seamlessly to a successful sale. He’s a great communicator, very personable, and was in my corner every step of the way.
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If you’re looking for a Realtor who works incredibly hard and smart, who knows the real estate market, and who’s totally committed — look no further than Ian. He represented us in the sale of our home and the experience couldn’t have been any better. He’s a skilled marketer and negotiator, made us feel comfortable the entire time, and worked with unwavering determination from the start.
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Ian assisted my wife and I in our search for a home in Marin and ultimately helped us find and purchase a beautiful house. Ian is extremely knowledgeable about the Marin real estate market (as well as SF and surrounding areas). We found Ian to be very attentive to our specific requirements and consistently available whenever we had questions. Ian did an excellent job in maintaining clear communication with us, with our lender and all other parties involved. From the initial home search, to making an offer, and throughout the closing process, Ian was always professional and a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Ian as an agent for buying or selling a home and will absolutely use him again for any future real estate needs.