Tag: Best Portland REALTOR®

2025 Real Estate Resolutions

Posted on by Lydia Hallay

Thinking of buying or selling a home in 2025? Setting clear resolutions can help you navigate this transformative journey with confidence.

Here are three resolutions to guide your real estate success in 2025.

Resolution 1: Clarify Your Vision for the Perfect Home

Embarking on a home-buying journey without a clear idea of what you want can be overwhelming. Take time to define what “home” means to you. Consider factors like location, size, design, and key features that match your lifestyle and future plans. Are you drawn to a contemporary townhouse or a craftsman bungalow? The more specific your vision, the easier it will be to find the right fit.

Dreaming & scheming is fun! It’s never too soon to consult with a realtor re: what’s possible and reasonable in the current market.

Resolution 2: Get Financially Prepared

Financial planning is essential for any real estate transaction. Whether saving for a down payment or budgeting for moving expenses, preparation is key. Start by evaluating your finances and creating a realistic budget that includes costs like closing fees, inspections, and renovations. Sellers should work with professionals to set a competitive listing price and forecast potential outcomes.

Consult financial advisors or lenders for expert guidance to reduce stress and gain confidence in your financial readiness. Need recs? Happy to send some.

Resolution 3: Partner with a Trusted Real Estate Pro

Navigating real estate complexities is easier with the right expert by your side. Connect with a seasoned agent who understands the local market and can offer valuable insights. A skilled professional can simplify negotiations, paperwork, and market analysis, making the process smoother for first-time and experienced buyers or sellers alike.

Looking Ahead to a Successful Year

The new year is a chance to embrace growth and transformation. By clarifying your vision, preparing financially, and building the right support team, you’ll set yourself up for real estate success in 2025.

 

No matter if you’re still in brainstorm mode-  or already packing boxes… I’d love to help you develop a plan & get to the finish line. Ready to get to work? Reach out!

Never to late to Congratulate!

Posted on by Nicole Chavira
Never too late to Congratulate M, M & T!
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Another success story of an FHA zero down with DPA (Down Payment Assistance).
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When they found this home that was highly desired. We were up against 5 other offers!
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Our offer was accepted WITH seller 10k credit to the buyers for their closing costs and a seller paid one year home warranty included.
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It takes a team to make the dream!
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Special thank you to their Brian Tovey, their escrow officer Kelsey Schaber, my co-op agent Lauren Goché and my gift basket maker Bri Arias!
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True Value of hiring a Buyers Agent

Posted on by Kyle Gordon

Picture this: You’ve budgeted diligently, saved for years, and are officially ready to buy your house. Maybe this is your first house, or it could be your next home. Excited about your journey ahead, you start searching for a real estate broker to help you in your home search.  

 

Now look, it’s no secret that everyone has a friend or family member who’s licensed and ready to help you, and they probably find creative ways to remind you of that early and often. Then there’s thousands of other agents open for business that you haven’t met yet, and each one of them would love to grab time with you to discuss your real estate goals and forge a partnership. 

 

Understanding that representation is not free, you make the sound decision to pick a few brokers to interview. And now once again, like so many other parts of your life, you’re in a position where someone is going to do their best to convince you of the value that their services will deliver, the value of their knowledge and experience and [insert a compelling and similar-to-your-situation customer story here] to make you comfortable with picking them over any of the other real estate brokers currently practicing in Portland. 

 

Value gets talked about A LOT in our society. Value this, savings that, act now and you’ll get $$$ back in your pocket! WE SAVE OUR CUSTOMERS [THIS MUCH MONEY] COMPARED TO OUR COMPETITION. Feeling fatigued yet? Yeah me too.. Feel the trust in the room? Yeah me neither. 

 

It’s no wonder that when it comes time to make one of the largest purchases of your life, you feel the need to approach it from a guarded, low trust state of mind. 

 

Lovely. 

 

So you may be asking yourself, truly, what value can a real estate broker give me, and what separates the good from the great from the.. well, everyone else? Let’s unpack that together.

 

When I think of ways to quantify value in a real estate transaction, I like to look at it from the perspective of quantifiable return on investment (you can point your finger at the exact amount of money that was saved), and qualitative return on investment (it’s still there, but harder to pin down an exact number). For the quantitative, we’ll unpack the stages of the home buying journey and address opportunities to negotiate savings along the way. For qualitative, we’ll think through things like time savings and mental/emotional health savings gained through proactive coaching and expectation setting that happens along your buying journey. 

 

First, for the sake of clarity, the Investment that I’m referring to in this blog is the fee you agree to pay your real estate broker. Whether that is a fixed amount, percentage of sale price, or something else entirely that has been mutually agreed upon.

 

Let’s zoom in. 

 

Quantifiable ROI (return on investment)

 

Offer submission and negotiation:

 

  • When drafting your offer, your broker can help you save money by talking with the listing agent about what the Seller’s priorities are other than their bottom line. Maybe they are looking for a shorter/longer escrow period than usual. Possibly offering to allow the Sellers to stay in the home for a few days or a few weeks after close is valuable and important to them. Maybe they really love their refrigerator and are hoping to take that with them, or they’re downsizing and are dreading the idea of having to get rid of the upright piano in the dining room that they can’t take with them. Notice how none of these things are related to the sale price of the home? Knowing these priorities prior to writing your offer can help you submit a strong offer while also keeping money in your pocket by being able to offer a lower purchase price in exchange for these other items. 

 

  • Everything is negotiable in a real estate deal. This includes Seller contributions toward your closing costs and prepaids (ask your lender about these), and even Seller contributions toward your buyer agent commissions. Your broker can help you negotiate these items into your offer, and doing this successfully has the potential to save you tens of thousands of dollars. 

 

Inspection period

 

  • After your offer gets accepted, you will typically have the opportunity to hire a professional inspector to assess your soon to be home and provide you with insights on things that may need to be repaired/replaced/addressed. With this new information in hand, your broker can help you go back to the negotiation table with the Sellers. There are several levers that can be pulled to find a path forward when unknown issues are uncovered, including a reduced sale price, additional Seller contributions toward your closing costs, and even repairs to be completed by the Seller prior to closing on your home purchase. All of these negotiable items must be mutually agreed upon by both the Buyer and the Seller, and having a skilled broker representing you can help you build and communicate a compelling case to get the Seller to agree to some/all of these negotiable items. Once again potentially saving you tens of thousands of dollars. 

 

Appraisal contingency 

 

  • Assuming that you will be taking out a mortgage loan for your home purchase, your lender will, in most cases, require that a third party licenced appraiser prepares an official report validating that the market value of the home you are buying is at least as much as the purchase price you’ve agreed to buy the home for. In some cases, the appraiser determines that the likely market value of your soon to be home is actually less than the current purchase price, leaving you with another negotiation ahead of you. When this happens, there is an opportunity for your broker to help you negotiate a lower purchase price if the Sellers agree to it. A strong broker will once again help you build and communicate a compelling case for why the Sellers should agree, and once again has the opportunity to potentially save you tens of thousands of dollars. 
  • On the flip side of this, if you and your broker were able to negotiate a strong, below market purchase price, you can find yourself in a position where the appraised value is actually higher than your purchase price. This puts you in the position of closing on your home with immediate home equity and can also be considered an added value that your broker helped you secure. 

 

Dang, that’s a lot of opportunities to save tens of thousands of dollars. 

 

Let’s move on to the squishier, less quantifiable value of hiring a high quality broker to guide you through your home buying journey. 

 

Qualitative ROI

 

Home shopping

 

  • Tailored, automated searches. As much as you may love spending time on Zillow or Redfin or whichever home listing site you choose to doom scroll on, your broker can actually set up an automatic search customized to your specific wants and needs and free up a bunch of your time for other things. 

 

  • On the subject of time savings, who likes scheduling and coordinating showings? Not you. Your broker will handle this as well. 

 

  • During showings, your broker can help point out smaller details about the home that may have been missed otherwise. Houses have A TON of things to look at and private showings are commonly described as overwhelming. Finding things during the showing will help you make a more informed and confident decision about how you would like to proceed. Whether for pointing out good or concerning things, having an expert in the room with you will help you know when you’ve found the one, and also know when you haven’t. Some call this peace of mind and that’s worth different amounts to different people. 

 

Escrow

 

  • After you have found your house and have an accepted offer, your broker will help you coordinate inspections and keep track of important deadlines agreed to in your accepted offer. These deadlines are a super important part of your escrow period and can mean the difference between a successful purchase of your dream home or a sale fail where you lose your earnest money deposit – kind of a big swing here of potential outcomes. A high quality broker will have your back every step of the way while also coaching you on what happens next and what to expect. 

 

Post-purchase

 

  • Guess what? A high quality real estate broker does not disappear the second you close on your home purchase. They’re always one text/call/smoke signal away, ready to help direct you to resources when questions come up. 

 

Alright, we’re now at the part of the show where we need to wrap things up! Hopefully this was more informative than it was a ramble. Thanks for spending some time with me either way. If you found this helpful, please let me know! My name is Kyle Gordon, I’m an Oregon Real Estate Broker at Living Room Realty, and my purpose within real estate is to give my clients more value than whatever fee they pay me – so much so that they choose to partner with me again and again, and also feel delighted to recommend me to their friends and family. I recognize that this level of trust and partnership has to be earned rather than given and I’m here for it. 

 

Not sure where to go from here? I offer free buyer consults at a Portland coffee shop near you, or at any of our lovely Living Room Realty offices. We can discuss your real estate goals and map out your journey ahead when you’re ready. In the meantime, check out my blog post that highlights things you should consider when shopping for your home. 

Just Listed | Generous Eliot Townhome | $425,000

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery

Generous Eliot Townhome

$425,000

2668 NE 6th Pl

Delightful end unit townhome with garage, yard and open plan living. You’ll find high ceilings, tucked away half bath and gas fireplace on the main floor. Upstairs is your private get away. Each of the two bedrooms has their own private bathroom. The primary suite has lofted ceilings and a walk in closet. Stay comfortable with mini splits providing consistent heating and cooling as the season requires. This well cared for home has newer laminate flooring on the main level, brand new carpet on the upper level and new paint inside. No rental cap for a great investment!  Desirable Irvington/Jefferson or Grant Schools. Home Energy score 10 out of 10!

 

Open House on Saturday 10 to noon and Sunday 11 to 1

2 bed | 2.1 bath | 1233 sq. ft.

MLS# 24180510 | Taxes: $4525.71 | Lot Size: .03 Acre

Special Features

  • Ten-foot-tall ceilings on the main and vaulted ceilings upstairs in the primary suite
  • Attached Garage and parking space in front of garage
  • Outdoor Space!  Clean and tidy with pavers and pergola
  • Lovely open floor plan on main level
  • Gas fireplace
  • Newer Appliances
  • Counter height bar with seating in kitchen
  • Primary suite with walk in closet and bathroom
  • Second bedroom is also en suite
  • Brand new carpet upstairs
  • No rental cap
  • End unit – attached on only one side

 

REAL ESTATE NEWS: GUTTERS

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

GUTTERS

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO CLEAN ‘EM

In the Pacific NW, we are always battling water when it comes to keeping our homes from intrusion, rot, and mold. As soon as water hits our roof, it has to go somewhere. Keeping your gutters clean to allow water to easily flow into the downspout is crucial. Ensure water either goes into the sewer drain or is whisked 6 feet away from the building. Overflowing gutters can lead to water pooling up around the base of your home.
Check the your grade of your yard. It should slope away from the house, and consider a dry well or bioswale. In the meantime, do you need your gutters cleaned? Here are a few companies that have worked well for our clients.

Chutes N Ladders

ECO Wash

PDX Roof Cleaning

 

Aryne + Dulcinea with Living Room Realty, Portland, Oregon. Aryne Blumklotz, Buyers, Dulcinea Myers-Newcomb, Sellers, aryneanddulcinea.com

Continue reading “REAL ESTATE NEWS: GUTTERS”

4 Weeks from Hair Cut to Closing: Congrats Makayla and Chancelor!

Posted on by Lita Batho

Recently, I was getting my hair cut, listening to a story my hair stylist had been telling me for a couple years: she LOVES her neighborhood.  She owns a home with her husband that is a bit small, but they can’t imagine leaving the area and felt priced out. On this day, she was even talking about consulting an architect to build a second level onto their single story house.

Just three days later, my hair whisperer called to say they were on their way to an open house, “to check it out”.  It was love at first step.  The 117 year old home had original leaded glass, wood floors, remodeled bathrooms and kitchen, and a front porch with roses creeping over the railing.  I looked through the listing details and spoke with the listing agent to determine what offer terms would be meaningful to the sellers.  I also put together a report of recently sold comparable homes to determine price, and worked with my buyers’ lender to be sure we were putting together a plan to succeed. My buyers weren’t the only ones who loved the house: by Sunday afternoon there was an offer deadline, and we ultimately competed against three other offers.

Less than 36 hours after the open house, I made a phone call a bit past my own bedtime to share the good news that the offer had been accepted! With a short timeline to closing, we got to work on inspections–which are no joke with a vintage house–and spent the week meeting with additional specialists and obtaining assessments and estimates.

I had the good fortune to be working with my skilled colleague Kim Parmon as the listing agent on this home purchase.  It’s gratifying as an agent to work with someone equally skilled and committed on the other side. This helped us quickly find solutions that satisfied both the buyers and the sellers. In addition, our team at Root Mortgage and First American Title went the extra mile to bring everything together, including overcoming last minute challenges.

Today, exactly four weeks after my hair cut, we closed on their ‘dream house’.  On this rainy fall evening, my buyers unlocked the door for the first time to begin a new era in the neighborhood they love, with the bigger, character-filled home they didn’t think was within reach.

Congratulations, Makayla and Chancelor!!

PORTLAND LIFE: GET OUT THE VOTE!

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

Aryne + Dulcinea with Living Room Realty, Portland, Oregon. Aryne Blumklotz, Buyers, Dulcinea Myers-Newcomb, Sellers, aryneanddulcinea.com

GET OUT THE VOTE!

ANOTHER BIG ELECTION IS AT OUR DOORSTEP!
Have you voted yet? You still have time to get your ballot in! And this year’s ballot looks different. Be sure to take some time to read your voter guide which includes information about candidates and measures to consider and vote for. Need some more info? Check out these resources to get you fired up to VOTE!
OFFICIAL BALLOT SITES (DROP OFF HERE)
Willamette Week Endorsements
VOTE 411
Portland Voter Guide

Continue reading “PORTLAND LIFE: GET OUT THE VOTE!”

West Hills Farmhouse: Open House Sat 10/26 & Sun 10/27, 11AM-1PM

Posted on by Veronica Powell

OPEN SAT 10/26 & SUN 10/27

11AM-1PM

This charming farmhouse will steal your heart! Perched on a quiet cul-de-sac, its unique floor plan features a spacious, open-concept kitchen, perfect for holiday entertaining and summer BBQs. The family room on this level features a cozy gas stove, perfect for rainy nights. The charming “flex room” adjacent to the kitchen could be: a playroom? craft room? mud room? home office? You decide! The perfect spot for homework or game nights. A convenient full bath completes this lower level. On the main level, the formal entry leads to a farmhouse-style living room w/shiplap walls and a coffered ceiling. An additional sitting room features a gas fireplace and charming bay window — the perfect spot for a cozy evening or a lazy Sunday morning. Finishing off this level are two bedrooms with adjacent, updated, Jack & Jill bath with new dual vanity and freshly refinished classic clawfoot tub. The upper level features a generous primary suite with full bath and loads of closet space, including built-in shelving and four attic storage spaces, perfect for stowing seasonal items. A charming nook on this upper level could be a home office or a quiet yoga retreat. Pristine hardwood floors, new carpet, new interior & exterior paint … too many updates to list here! See features list. Don’t miss the very rare large flat side yard, ready for your vision: privacy hedge, playground or fire pit. Conveniently located close to downtown, OHSU, shopping and restaurants on NW 23rd, the Pearl, and Multnomah Village. Easy access to Tech Corridor & Nike. Walk to several parks & trails. Top rated schools too!

MORE PHOTOS

REAL ESTATE NEWS: WHAT BUYERS NEED

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

….RELIEF

It hasn’t been the easiest time to be a buyer. Buyers have been facing high rates, low inventory, new commission structures, and houses that need lots of repairs. In the end, it all adds up to $$$! What buyers need is a bit of relief. And when a brave buyer takes the plunge with a house, the hardest day of the transaction is often the home inspection day. This is often the day when the $$$ needed to move forward on a home seems insurmountable. Having a great buyer’s agent on your side to walk you through negotiating with the Seller is critical. Agents can end up saving you thousands of dollars in the end with great professionalism and negotiation strategies. And really what is it that a Buyer wants? A new place to call home. If you are ready to take the plunge and buy a house, contact us today.

 

Aryne + Dulcinea with Living Room Realty, Portland, Oregon. Aryne Blumklotz, Buyers, Dulcinea Myers-Newcomb, Sellers, aryneanddulcinea.com

Continue reading “REAL ESTATE NEWS: WHAT BUYERS NEED”

Just Listed | Alberta Arts Eco-Craftsman | $849,000

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery

603 NE Webster St

4 Bedroom 3.1 Bathroom | 2640 Sq feet

MLS# 24264982 | Taxes: $10,300.05 | Lot Size: .07 acres

 

Modern construction, craftsman details and green features all in one house?  It doesn’t get any better than this!  This special home has many great features that make living here a dream.  Main floor has open concept living with a living and family room. Upstairs there is a primary suite with private deck, two additional bedrooms, bathroom and laundry room. Lower level has a guest suite or office with its own bathroom and a tuck under garage with car charger.  In addition, you’ll find character uncommon in newer construction with reclaimed fir floors, craftsman millwork and built ins, timeless black and white kitchen and Rejuvenation fixtures.  Get outside with three decks and a low maintenance, fully fenced yard. Easy on your pocket book and mother earth, this house is equipped with Earth Advantage and Energy Star rated appliances, rainwater collection, recycled content roof and countertops, dual flush toilets, tankless hot water heater and two 95% efficiency furnaces. This dynamite house has a walk score of 94 and a bike score at a perfect 100.  Come see the perfect NE house in the perfect NE location with all the best features.  Buyer’s agent compensation is negotiable.

 

REAL ESTATE NEWS: THE PORTLAND ADU TOUR

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

THE PORTLAND ADU TOUR

Aryne + Dulcinea with Living Room Realty, Portland, Oregon. Aryne Blumklotz, Buyers, Dulcinea Myers-Newcomb, Sellers, aryneanddulcinea.comIf you are considering adding a separate living space to our property, The Portland ADU TOUR is for you! Come see several ways to add an ADU to your property whether attached, detached, custom, pre-fab, big, or small. Stop by and say hi to our favorite realtors and ADU specialists from team Aryne + Dulcinea, a.k.a the Property Mavens!

 

Aryne + Dulcinea with Living Room Realty, Portland, Oregon. Aryne Blumklotz, Buyers, Dulcinea Myers-Newcomb, Sellers, aryneanddulcinea.com

And if you can’t make it, reach out to us for more great ADU information. Continue reading “REAL ESTATE NEWS: THE PORTLAND ADU TOUR”

Meowdy! Congratulations to Woodstock Portland’s newest neighbors!

Posted on by Nicole Chavira

Story time about this dynamic duo Jason and Tamara! They began their home search with me in early 2021. They pulled out on a potential purchase that just wasn’t quite right for them that year. They took a break from the home search (this happens on occasion and for good reason). We stayed in touch over the next few years and I was thrilled when they came back around the end of 2023 to update their home search and peek at what the current market had to offer!

We got an offer accepted on a condo that turned out to need more repairs than the HOA had budgeted for, so they terminated. Thank goodness for the many contingencies during the home purchasing process that protected my clients to uncover all they needed to make the educated decision to move on from that one. Although it was a huge disappointment for them, they did not get discouraged or give up on their dreams of home ownership. They jumped right back on the saddle and asked to tour new homes! I was so proud of their trust in my guidance and faith in themselves to get to the finish line.

They found a gorgeous new construction home that offered what is called an SDC exemption (System Development Charge). This is a program that assists developers by reducing their development costs when building affordable residential housing. T & J diligently worked on getting that application in after our offer was accepted, and they were approved for $30k off the sales price AND over $9k in closing costs covered by the seller!

They are now MOTHER F*CKING HOME OWNERS!

Special shoutout to our trusted lender Cat Jerger with Guild Mortgage for her excellent service!

Way to go my friends! It’s been a true pleasure. Wishing you many beloved memories of game nights, play time with your fur baby Ophy and new neighborly friendships in your new home.

Shakira’s new digs in NE Portland!

Posted on by Nicole Chavira

Our journey began when we first met at one of my open houses where I got the pleasure of meeting Natalie and her pup Shakira! We hit it off and I knew I wanted to become her trusted real estate professional and answer more of her home buying questions.

We kept in touch and she introduced me to her husband Steve when they attended one of my “First Time Home Buyer” classes, co-hosted with Cat Jerger at Guild Mortgage. We gave them education and confidence to take the next steps and applied for a mortgage loan.

Soon after they were pre-approved, we had our one-on-one buyer consult over zoom, set them up on a personalized home search and hit the pavement on a very enjoyable home search!

We even had some time to bring in a few of my trusted contractors to give them remodeling tips and bids to assist them in their decision making.

They found an amazing home to put an offer in on and we got it for $10k under the listing price AND got the seller to agree to pay the full $24k HOA special assessment that was due! The cherry on top is when their appraisal came back above their purchase price!

When I tell you that I continuously hit the jackpot when it comes to having the best clients that turn into friends, they are a prime example!

I have even had the joy of receiving remodeling updates from them since their closing day. I can’t wait for the invite when they are ready to showcase their hard work.

Steve and Natalie, I know you will turn the house into a home with the love you have for one another, the love you are putting into your new pad and the love you give to others.

Thank you for trusting me on your successful path to homeownership!

Also a special shout out to Jessie Hammons at WFG National Title for all her hard work!

Just Listed | Completely Detached Luxury Condo in Hazelwood

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery

1131 NE 106th

$499,000

3 bed | 2.5 bath | 1529 sq. ft.

MLS# 24349587 | Taxes: $5706.46 | HOA dues: $83/mo

Open Houses | Saturday, April 27th 11-1 | Sunday, April 28th from 12-2

Immaculately maintained, almost new home! High-end COMPLETELY DETACHED, single-family style condo built in 2021! This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home is the perfect spot for you and your plant friends to soak up the Portland sun. 

Special Features

  • Home Energy Score is a 9 out of 10 = low cost utilities
  • Luxury primary suite with bathroom and walk in closet
  • Low fee, well run HOA
  • A/C
  • Great floor plan with main floor powder room
  • Oak Laminate throughout
  • Well appointed kitchen with stainless appliances

Welcome!

The perfectly laid out living room has a gas fireplace flanked by a large window and slider that allows light to flood into the space. 

The open floor plan has a great flow between kitchen, dining and living room.

The sleek, high-end kitchen has a powered island prep space, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops and plenty of storage.

The main floor is complete with a tucked away powder room.

Through the slider, you have easy flow between the house and the private, fully fenced patio.

The wide plank oak laminate floors also flow upstairs where you’ll find a luxurious primary suite with coved ceiling, walk in closet, soaking tub and shower. 

Primary en suite bathroom has a shower and soaking tub.

You’ll also find double sinks and a separate toilet room in the en suite bathroom.

Down the hall are two nicely sized bedrooms, a well-appointed hall bathroom and a laundry room. 

The attached, extra deep garage is right off the kitchen for easy access and gives space for storage or a workshop. 

Quiet, tucked away neighborhood with great access to services, the freeway, PDX airport and public transport at Gateway transit.

Come see this luxurious, affordable home today and make it your own. 

 

More photos here!

 

March Magic: Attracting and Feeding Wild Birds in Your Portland Backyard

Posted on by Lydia Hallay

Welcome to March Magic for Bird Lovers in Portland! As the city gears up for spring, it’s the perfect time to transform your backyard into a haven for wild birds. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, here’s your ultimate guide to attracting and feeding wild birds in Portland during March.

1. Choose the Best Bird Feeders

Selecting the right feeders is key to attracting diverse bird species to your backyard. Tube feeders cater to smaller birds like finches and chickadees, while platform feeders are ideal for ground-feeding species such as sparrows and juncos. Don’t forget suet feeders for woodpeckers and nuthatches!

2. Opt for Nutritious Bird Food Blends

Offer a diverse menu to entice various bird species. Invest in high-quality birdseed blends containing sunflower seeds, millet, and cracked corn. Black oil sunflower seeds are a favorite among many backyard birds, while nyjer seed attracts finches like goldfinches and pine siskins. Backyard Bird Shop is one of my favorite local resources for all things bird-related.

3. Provide Fresh Water Daily

Even in chilly March, wild birds need access to clean water for drinking and bathing. Invest in a birdbath or shallow dish and ensure it’s filled with fresh water daily. Consider adding a heating element to prevent freezing during cold spells, ensuring year-round water access.

4. Create Shelter with Native Plants

Native plants provide essential shelter and habitat for wild birds. Plant native shrubs and trees like Oregon grape, serviceberry, and Pacific wax myrtle to offer protection from predators and additional food sources.

5. Maintain Cleanliness for Bird Health

Regular maintenance is crucial for the health of your avian visitors. Clean feeders and water sources regularly to prevent disease spread. Remove moldy or spoiled food promptly, and keep the feeding area clean by raking up fallen seed hulls and debris.

6. Be Patient and Observant

Attracting wild birds requires patience and observation. Spend time observing bird behavior from a distance to avoid disturbance. Keep a journal to record species encounters and track their visits over time.

Conclusion

As March brings longer days and warmer weather to Portland, it’s the perfect time to welcome back our feathered friends. By following these tips for attracting and feeding wild birds in your backyard, you can create a sanctuary that brings joy and wonder to your life. Get ready to embark on a birding adventure right in your own backyard!

Portland Home Buying Tips, Inspired by Hermit Crabs

Posted on by Lydia Hallay

In Portland, Oregon, where creativity thrives and individuality is celebrated, the journey of a homebuyer can mirror that of the humble hermit crab, hunting for a shell along the rugged Oregon coast. As Portlanders embark on their house-hunting adventures, they can draw inspiration from the coastal creatures that navigate their surroundings in search of the ideal shell. Here’s what Portland home buyers can glean from the wisdom of hermit crabs:

  1. Embrace Unconventional Spaces

Much like the eclectic spirit of Portland’s neighborhoods, hermit crabs are known for their ability to thrive in unconventional spaces. They’re not bound by traditional norms and are willing to explore hidden gems tucked away in unexpected corners. Portland home buyers, too, can embrace the city’s diverse architectural landscape, considering everything from cozy bungalows in Alberta Arts District to mid-century gems at the base of Mt. Tabor, each offering its own unique charm and character.

  1. Size Isn’t Everything; Character Counts

In a city where individuality reigns supreme, Portlanders understand that size isn’t everything when it comes to finding the perfect home. Just as hermit crabs prioritize shells with character and charm over sheer size, Portland home buyers appreciate the quirks and nuances of older homes with history and personality. From craftsman cottages adorned with lush gardens to modern masterpieces  nestled in the hills, it’s the character that truly makes a house feel like a home in Portland.

  1. Location with a Dash of Quirkiness

Portland’s neighborhoods are as diverse as they come, each with its own distinct vibe and personality. Whether it’s the bustling energy of Southeast Division Street or the laid-back atmosphere of Laurelhurst, Portland neighborhoods reflect the unique interests and lifestyles of the people who live there. Like hermit crabs scouring the coastline for shells in prime locations, home buyers in Portland seek neighborhoods that offer a perfect blend of convenience, community, and, of course, a dash of quirkiness.

  1. Embrace Sustainability and Green Living

Portland has long been recognized as a pioneer in sustainability and green living practices. Just as hermit crabs instinctively understand the importance of protecting their environment, Portland home buyers are drawn to eco-friendly homes that minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable living. Whether it’s a LEED-certified home in the Hawthorne District, or craftsman with a 10/10 energy score in Sellwood, Portlanders are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and preserving the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

  1. Lean on Local Experts

In a city where local expertise and community connections are highly valued, Portland home buyers can benefit from leaning on the knowledge and guidance of a local real estate professional who knows the ins and outs of Portland’s diverse neighborhoods. Whether you’re new to town or just new to the neighborhood, it can be helpful to work with a Realtor who’s familiar with all parts of the metro area, and sees the big picture of the competitive market.

In the end, just as hermit crabs find sanctuary in the perfect shell, Portland home buyers can find solace and belonging in a place they can truly call their own. With a spirit of adventure, a dash of quirkiness, and a deep appreciation for all things unique, Portlanders can embark on their house-hunting journey with excitement and optimism, knowing that the perfect home is waiting to be discovered in the heart of the Rose City.

Looking for Portland homes for sale? Whether you’re in search of Portland real estate tips, lender connections, or a Realtor who can be your expert guide to the city, I’d love to help. Reach out today!

Knocked it out of the ballpark for these Oregon City sellers!

Posted on by Nicole Chavira
Before the year wraps up, I have a couple memorable sales I want to share. This townhome was up against a few others just like it on the market. Here’s some stats on those comparables to help you understand.
  • Townhouse 1 has had a rough go with one sale fail and multiple price reductions. It is still sitting on the market after 135 days
  • Townhouse 2 has also dealt with a termination and a small price reduction. After 113 days on the market, it is now pending.
  • Townhouse 3 did a small price reduction and after 43 days on market, it sold.
  • Townhouse 4 was slightly superior with updates and having a desirable corner lot and an extra garage space. They went on the market right before us and was our biggest competition. It took them 58 days to go pending, which is their current status.
What’s all of this mean? It tells a little background of how I collect data to advise my sellers on what their home is worth, how to best price it (remember that list price and sales price are not always the same) and how to best prepare the home as a seller. I will drive by the homes or tour them, if available, so I can be confident when we come to the table and plan how to best showcase their home for sale.
Ready for our stats!?
We went pending in  days at our original listing price with no repairs! The average days on market that week for all home styles on the Oregon City area at that price point was 28 days. So we hit it out of the ballpark!
It was so joyous to be able to provide these results to my sellers who were ready to move on to the next chapter in their lives. Their trust in me from day one was more than appreciated! We were a true team.
Ask me more on how I market and sell homes with these results. Interest rates have dropped and the new year is around the corner holding eager home buyers ready to get moving! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to get the most for your property. Contact me for a free home evaluation today!

Just Listed | Sunny Sabin Ranch | $485,000

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery

Sunny Sabin Ranch

$485,000

4231 NE 11th Ave 

Portland, OR 97211

Come see this charming ranch with the perfect open layout.  Large east facing windows flood the living space and kitchen with light in the mornings. Cozy eat in kitchen nook for morning coffee and taking in the neighborhood activity. This home has fresh exterior paint, new heat pump for heating AND cooling, and a new roof. Beautifully renovated kitchen and bath with an eye toward retaining its period charm. Sweet vintage range in excellent condition and countertops made from reclaimed wood from the house. So much has been done on this home and there are a few projects left for you to add your personality. Fully fenced side yard, partial basement with access through garage. Large attached one car garage off kitchen has potential for future expansion. Corner lot has possibilities for adding on or ADU, buyer to do their own due diligence. Excellent location close to Alberta, Mississippi, Williams and Fremont business districts. 

2 bed | 1 bath | 1238 sq. ft.

MLS# 23431614 | Taxes: $2,389.85 | Lot Size: .10 Acre

 

What Makes the St. Johns Neighborhood Special -Part 2- Coffee Shops

Posted on by Living Room Realty

Coffee shops are community!

Every time I head to a new city or even just a new part of town, I make finding a great coffee shop the first order of business because there’s no better starting point for understanding the local community, no matter where you are. When you visit the St. Johns neighborhood, you’ll notice life moves a tad bid slower and that’s a good thing. The coffee shops are alive and bustling with folks working, unwinding, socializing and connecting.

And with the University of Portland just down the street, you’ll find University students regularly taking advantage of these great study spots.

Coffee shops are special because they reflect the atmosphere of the neighborhood and St. Johns is fortunate to have many unique and vibrant coffee shops which makes choosing just one very hard! A good problem to have :)!

Here are a few of my favorites:

Great North Coffee

This café feels like the heart of St. Johns. A popular meet-up spot as well as a great place to work or unwind with a snack. They roast great coffee and have other nice choices like kombucha and teas. The room has high ceilings and plenty of seating which gives it such a lovely and classic café feel. Locally famous for their next-level breakfast sandwich made with chimichurri or romanesco, and can be made vegan. Delicious and addictive! Also, you’ll find the classic pastries, cookies and bagels you expect from a great café. Don’t miss the local art on the walls!

 

Two Stroke Coffee Co.

Two Strokes Coffee is a moto-inspired coffee shop on the main drag of St. Johns, conveniently located next to a cool motorcycle & scooter shop called Sabatino Moto. This is a really fun cafe to visit and a great place to hang out. They serve wonderful coffee, pastries and have great baristas. There are a few motorcycles in the café and some stylish merchandise as well.

 

Sparrow Bakery

Sparrow Bakery is well known for incredible baked goods. They have 2 locations (the other is in Bend Oregon) and do wholesale baking for many other cafés. We are so lucky to have them in St. Johns! Sparrow makes great coffee and fabulous baked goods- I feel like it is a full-time job trying not to eat their pastries every day :). They are perfection! Plus there’s a large food menu making it a great spot for breakfast or lunch.

 

Cathedral Coffee

This one isn’t technically in St. Johns but I just had to add it! It’s officially in the Cathedral Park neighborhood (hence the name), but it’s verrry close to downtown St. Johns. Cathedral Coffee is an eclectic cafe that is always busy but never feels crowded. A beautiful large space with big windows, natural light, tall wood bookshelves & large tables. They roast their own coffee and bake their own sweets & savories, which are fabulous!

I highly recommend the foldovers they make with veggies and cheese (some have meat). They are fantastic and always fresh! And the cinnamon rolls are incredible. Many wonderful baked goods to choose from.

They also have plenty of great outdoor seating!

 

 

What about St. Johns Real Estate?

One more note regarding this current real estate market. St. Johns has seen a steady increase in property values and demand over the past few years with the average home price this August landing at $470,000 (source RMLS). To put that in perspective, the average home price for all of Portland Metro was much higher by the end of this August at $608,300 (source RMLS). 

If you’re considering the St. Johns neighborhood, I’m here to guide you.

I know the ins and outs of this neighborhood having lived here for more than 11 years. And, if you’re interested in other neighborhoods, that works too! I help people buy and sell homes all over Portland. I am known for my knowledge of the market and my ability to educate and listen carefully. You will benefit from my coaching heart and guidance that reduces stress and creates positive outcomes. I want to see you happy and satisfied with your real estate journey.

Read my reviews and bio for a good sense of what to expect from me.

I look forward to helping to make your home purchase pleasant, painless and hopefully even a little fun!

Before you go, here’s a fun fact: Did you know that St. Johns was once its own independent city before it was annexed into the city of Portland? In 1915, St. Johns voted to become part of the city, primarily to access the city’s services and infrastructure. The annexation was officially completed in 1915, and since then, St. Johns has been a neighborhood within the larger city of Portland.

Just Sold near Peninsula Park! Yay for my first-time home buyers!

Posted on by Living Room Realty

Congratulations to my clients!

As you may already know, my business is referral based and I love meeting new people. So you can imagine how happy I was when a past client recommended Jane and their partner to me. It was such a joy getting to know them on their house hunt!

Here’s a little rundown of how it went.

We started with a buyer consultation and spent an hour going over the process in general. That’s the best way to get started, going over the current market and setting expectations for everyone. That’s when I ask the most questions about what my clients are looking for and we set the pace for the house hunt.

 

We saw multiple houses every week in various neighborhoods for many weeks until we narrowed it down and found the area that felt like home. The house they chose checked a lot of boxes, it was the perfect size in a great location and it had more than one bathroom plus a garage (bonus!). We saw the house 3 times just to be sure and then successfully got the offer accepted! They did a great job of getting financially ready, approved by a reputable lender, and had all their ducks in a row in that arena. (That truly is the first step!)

 

As we went through the inspection contingency period, I really liked that Jane and her partner asked a lot of questions along the way. One thing that people don’t always lean into when buying a house is making time to dive into research and ask all of the questions, even the dumb ones (and there are no dumb ones). Carving out time for this is so helpful because it’s the meat and potatoes of the whole deal. I’m here to advise and guide you along, but there is a lot to digest and having the time for those conversations and follow-up questions will always feel good.

Here is a general overview of the inspection contingency period. I will advise you while you look over the permit history, have the sewer scoped, the home tested for radon, the property searched for underground storage tanks, plus have a whole property general inspection as well. And that’s not always all, there are more investigations sometimes. It’s a lot and it’s awesome! Because after all of that, clients have a much better understanding of the home with all of its pros and cons.

 

So in this case, some things did come up in the investigations and we negotiated a credit and a price reduction. A couple of weeks later we had fun at the signing and a few days later we wrapped it all in a bow and I gave them keys.

 

Please reach out if you’re interested in talking about buying or selling a home. I’m always here for a check-in about the current market, lender recommendations or anything I can do to help advocate for your homeownership.

 

 

REAL ESTATE NEWS: ADU ADVENTURES!

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

ADU ADVENTURES

This is your weekly ADU info guide.

 

GARAGE CONVERSIONS TO ADUs

Have a detached garage and want to convert it into a living or guest space? There are many questions to answer before you proceed, but you may have the makings for a second living space on your property.
Come see our NEW LISTING for a great example!

Want to know more? CONTACT US  today – we are your ADU experts!

Continue reading “REAL ESTATE NEWS: ADU ADVENTURES!”

Summertime, is the time,…. to prep your house for market.

Posted on by Veronica Powell
For most of us Summer is just getting started.  BUT if you’re planning to sell your home this Fall, now is the time to prepare!
     1) Start purging, tidying & packing (This always takes longer than you think it will. Start this asap!).
     2) Work on/schedule any needed repairs or maintenance.
     3) Talk with an Agent about your goals and timeline.
     4) If you’re planning to make another purchase, talk with a Lender (Your Agent will likely have some good referrals for you!)
     5) Discuss strategies with your Agent regarding how to make your home compelling to Buyers (Fall is a short selling season so proper positioning is key to success).
Prepping your home for market can feel like a daunting task. Your Agent can help you prioritize tasks to stay on schedule and focus your efforts on the projects with the biggest impact and return on investment.
My team of professionals can help you  get your home to where it needs to be to attract Buyers. Give me a call for a complimentary consult to get you stated and on the path to “SOLD!”
Veronica Powell
503.936.3475
Veronica@LivingRoomRE.com

Getting to Know: NE Alberta & Killingsworth Neighborhoods

Posted on by Kat Gilpatrick

 

There are so many wonderful neighborhoods to get to know in Portland, and I wanted to highlight some of the most vibrant; the ones where the community is so passionate, the businesses packing loyal customers in, and sought after homes sell quickly.

In this edition, I’m covering NE Alberta, famous as the Alberta Arts District, with so much culture and history woven throughout, and the adjacent NE Killingsworth blocks. Both stretch across neighborhoods officially called Vernon and Concordia, and are colorful, parks-adjacent and full of fun. Minutes away from Alameda Ridge, Beaumont Wilshire and Cully neighborhoods, you’re right in the middle of the action. To the West you’ve got Mississippi and lots of nightlife and live music.

 

 

I put together a Best-Of-List I made to share with folks I’ve helped get into homes here as well as for those visiting my listings recently sold in this NE gem of a location. Good homes here for first time home buyers? For investment properties? Check. For families? Check. For walkability and sweet livability? CHECK. Read on, and bookmark this to share with friends coming to visit. Ping me with additions you feel might be worthy, and I’ll update.

Alberta/Killingsworth Top Picks & Resources 

General:

Neighborhood park – Fernhill Park

 

Community/Event:

  • Last Thursday – Alberta Art walk/community – 15-block community event on NE Alberta Street between 15th and 30th Avenue from 6 -9 p.m.. In 2023, the event will take place on June 29, July 27, and August 31.

 

  • Kennedy School – Food, fun, drinks, movies, events, soaking tubs, places to stay for folks visiting, your all around local McMenamins hang – 33rd & Ainsworth
  • Farmers Markets – King (NE Wygant St &, NE 7th Ave, Portland, OR 97211 – Sunday) or Cully {5011 NE 42nd Ave – Thurs)

Restaurants:

  • Amazing stones-throw restaurant – Wilder. Wonderful food, great community place – walkable – no reservations – just off of Killingsworth at 30th
  • Bakery/Cafe – Flour Market – just off of Killingsworth at 30th
  • Toyshop Ramen – Excellent new Ramen place walkable to you 
  •  Bae’s Chicken – Super fantastic fried/hot chicken place – new NE location
  • Bar Cala – Wonderfully picturesque restaurant/bar on Alberta – a visual and literal feast 
  • Burgers/Bar/Fun – Tulip Shop Bar
  • Radio Room – Restaurant/bar/DJ/great outdoor space on Alberta
  • Extracto Coffee – Your closest and possibly hippest coffee place
  • Expatriate – Fantastic close by cocktail bar
  • Brooks Wine/Chocolate pairings – Ok, it’s Irvington, but still super close!
  • Banh Mi Up Kitchen – Viet Namese/sandwiches, noodles, etc. on NE Alberta
  • Pasture PDX – Great butcher, sandwich shop 

Stores:

  • Grocery – New Seasons 
  • Hardware – Hankins Hardware – MLK
  • Garden Store/Landscaping Services – Portland Bloem 42nd & Alberta 
  • Zig Zag Vintage – Great selection of vintage stuff – good mens collection
  • EcoVibe – Plants, home, decor – on Alberta 
  • Psychic Sister – Art, Vintage, Crystals, Tarot

Entertainment/Wellness/Sport:

  • Yoga – People’s Yoga Killingsworth & 30th
  • North Portland Bikeworks – Fantastic local Bike store 
  • Gladys – Bike store on Alberta
  • Common Ground Wellness – Massage, soaking tubs, sauna – beautiful relaxing urban oasis 33rd/Alberta-ish
  • Rose City Book Pub – Also Irvington but a great place to hang
  • Alberta Rose Theater – Productions, small concerts, etc.  

And if you’d like your own run-down and adventure tour of this fantastic spot – or any others – just say the word, I’d love to show you around.

Next up in my neighborhoods feature? Beaumont-Wilshire & Rose City Park!

PORTLAND LIFE: FARMERS MARKETS

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

PORTLAND FARMERS MARKETS

Portland teems with farmer’s markets! Surrounded by amazing farm country, the Willamette Valley and beyond grows beautiful food, and just as great as beautiful food is supporting the dedicated folks who tend and grow food. Shopping at farmer’s markets, signing up for CSAs, and supporting local coops are great ways to support local farmers. And summertime is the best time to start shopping!
Here are a few of our favorite farmer’s markets:
PSU farmer’s market
King Farmer’s Market
Kenton Farmer’s Market
SEE ALL FARMER’S MARKETS HERE

 

Continue reading “PORTLAND LIFE: FARMERS MARKETS”

Settlers Point Beauty | $499,000 | 19446 S Prospector Terrace, Oregon City

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery

Settlers Point Beauty

$499,000

 

19446 S Prospector Terrace

Oregon City, OR 97045

Have you been looking for that house with everything? This one has it!  This modern build three bedroom with a den and two bathrooms is all on one level and has been excellently maintained. Lofted ceiling, open floor plan and corner lot give that spacious, light filled feeling.  The primary suite has a walk in closet and bathroom with dual sinks. One of the bedrooms even has a cool loft!  You’ll also find a gas fireplace, large eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Easy indoor/outdoor living with a slider to back deck from the kitchen.  Once outside you’ll find a newer covered gazebo on the Trex deck, raised beds, a fully fenced back yard and a private area with a spot for a hot tub (hot tub not included but negotiable).  **Seriously there are so many good things!  Keep going!**  The two car oversized garage is there for all your storage needs.  Recent upgrades include new interior and exterior paint and a new furnace. Choose your own new flooring with a $2500 flooring credit.  This home is on a quiet street in Settlers Point neighborhood close to Hillendale and Wesley Lynn park. If you’re looking for a great spot in Oregon City with its rich history as the first American City to be incorporate west of the Rockies, check this home out. While it’s just 30 min from downtown Portland, it’s a world away.  Downtown Oregon City is adjacent to the Willamette River and is dotted with great restaurants, coffee shops and breweries to explore.

3 bed + Den | 2 bath | 1690 sq. ft.

MLS# 23565668 | Taxes: $4497 | Lot Size: .12 Acre 

Special Features

  • Lofted ceilings
  • Corner Lot
  • Oversized two car garage
  • All on one level
  • New interior and exterior paint
  • New Furnace 
  • Covered gazebo on Trex deck

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Click here for more photos

 

If you’d like to know more about this house or would like to buy or sell a home, give me a call and I’d be happy to help!

 

 

Sean O’Feery

Licensed Broker in Oregon

206-795-0703

sean@livingroomre.com

 

PORTLAND LIFE: KICKING OFF PRIDE!

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

 

KICKING OFF PRIDE!

Pride celebrations are kicking off all over the country. At Living Room, we kicked off Pride with a celebration including rainbow-inspired, plant-based food, a jazz trio, and lots of merriment! And this was all before 9:30 in the morning! We also had an impactful presentation from local lender, Percy Wise about the experiences of LGBTQIA+ buyers, sellers, and homeowners.

PORTLAND PRIDE2023 UPDATE

In case you are wondering when Portland’s big PRIDE festival takes place this year, it’s in JULY! July 15-16 to be exact. Read more about events HERE.

Continue reading “PORTLAND LIFE: KICKING OFF PRIDE!”

PORTLAND LIFE: GARDEN BEDS + BOXES WE LOVE

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

 

GARDEN BEDS + BOXES WE LOVE

We could not be more excited to get back outside in our yards and gardens and plant, dig, beautify and breathe it all in. If you are interested in installing some new beds, but don’t want them to be ground level or just want to design spaces with garden boxes, CLICK THROUGH the images to see some of our favorite beds + boxes for your new project!

                 

Continue reading “PORTLAND LIFE: GARDEN BEDS + BOXES WE LOVE”

REAL ESTATE NEWS: HOUSE BILL 3294

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

REAL ESTATE NEWS: OREGON HOUSE BILL 3294

 

You may not know it, but as a homeowner in parts of this city, you may have racist language in your deed and title documents. House Bill 3294 moves to help homeowners remove this language and other restrictions from their titles entirely.

Read more here.

Continue reading “REAL ESTATE NEWS: HOUSE BILL 3294”

STYLE EDIT: INTERIOR DOORS WITH BOLD COLOR

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

                                           

STYLE ALERT:

INTERIOR DOORS WITH BOLD COLOR

We’ve been adding color to our front doors, and painting accent walls in our home, but an interior accent door? We LOVE it! A great way to refresh a room, hallway, entryway, or foyer.

See more ideas here.

 

Continue reading “STYLE EDIT: INTERIOR DOORS WITH BOLD COLOR”

First Time Homebuyers, from Handshakes to Hugs.

Posted on by Living Room Realty

I had the pleasure of meeting Jon in early Autumn of 2022 at a wee condo in SW Portland while hosting an open house. It was a lovely condo: very modern, floor to ceiling windows, two levels, 700 square feet. The downside being the many pet restrictions, and a high HOA. The $360,000 price tag looked good; however it didn’t quite work for Jon. Fast forward about six months later, and they were ready to begin in earnest as first-time homebuyers. Off to a coffee date we went where I had the pleasure of meeting Kevin, talked shop, made a plan, and we began. After talking to a lender and exploring neighborhoods around the city, they were seeing just how much home they could buy.

And then…we found THE one.

With Jon and Kevin, it was discovering that by doing their research, planning ahead, and getting all of their dogs in a row, (only because they have four of them, it couldn’t be ducks, and I couldn’t resist.), they landed this gem of a house. Instead of a 700sqft condo with the teeniest patio, they closed on their first, nearly 2,000sqft two-story house in the Montavilla neighborhood, 1940’s floor to ceiling windows included! It also has an enormous and private backyard for all their doggos.

This happened it seemed in a blink of an eye. (Another reason why it’s SO, SO important to prepare). When I got the call that they were ready to go, we immediately began to plan our house tour. It was so much fun! Only one day of touring several houses before we found THE house. Newly price reduced and it was within their reach. Of course, they weren’t the only ones who loved this house, and we competed with multiple offers. That’s often how it goes with price reductions, or corrections as we say. They drum up buyers to act. And act and win we did!

Prepare, my friends, prepare! The preparation for owning your first home takes time, patience, and sometimes a strong constitution. With every client I meet, I advise them to do the research, while I help guide them along the way. Get your advocates together, whomever that may be, whether it’s your bandmate, therapist, barista, pal, family, your people! Talk about it. Get excited about it! You’re about to take the plunge into homeownership, on to the adventure of building equity. Then find your cheerleaders/master negotiators – your LENDER and your AGENT. Once all of that is in order, the house hunting begins in earnest, and life changes completely. It’s an exciting ride first-timers!

Janelle Freeman, Realtor (@janelleisrealestate) • Instagram photos and videos

 

The First Time Homebuyers 💕
THE House!
1940’s Floor to Ceiling Windows!

STYLE EDIT: A Fresh Look at Velvet Armchairs

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

A FRESH LOOK AT VELVET ARMCHAIRS

 

We’re loving these fresh styled – but oh so cozy velvet armchairs! They are everything from curling up with a book to a stylish cocktail party!

CLICK PHOTO TO SEE MORE.

Continue reading “STYLE EDIT: A Fresh Look at Velvet Armchairs”

PORTLAND LIFE: Hot Gingery Drinks to Sip While We Wait for Spring Weather

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

HOT GINGERY DRINKS TO SIP WHILE WE WAIT FOR SPRING

HOT GINGER APPLE CIDER, HOT LEMON GINGER TODDY, AND GINGER-SPICE HOT COCOA are three amazing drinks to keep you warm while we wait for Spring. These healthy and simple drinks all start with ginger and water… see the directions below:

HOT LEMON-GINGER TODDY:
Slice up a hunk of ginger and cover and simmer in 2 cups water for 20 minutes, strain, add freshly squeezed lemon juice or lemon slices to taste, and add honey for a bit of sweetness – serves two.
GINGER-SPICE HOT COCOA:
Slice up a hunk of ginger and cover and simmer in 2 cups water for 20 minutes, strain, add one cup of plant-based milk, whisk in cocoa powder, and sweeten with maple syrup and cinnamon – serves two.
HOT GINGER-APPLE CIDER:
Slice up a hunk of ginger and cover and simmer in 1 cup of water for 20 minutes, add one or two cups of apple juice and a cinnamon stick to taste, and simmer for another 10 minutes – serves two.

Continue reading “PORTLAND LIFE: Hot Gingery Drinks to Sip While We Wait for Spring Weather”

PORTLAND LIFE: Domestica’s Top Spring Cleaning Tips!

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

Give Your Home A Refresh With
DOMESTICA’S TOP SPRING CLEANING TIPS!

SPRING IS ALMOST HERE & THERE IS NO
BETTER TIME FOR THESE HELPFUL CLEANING TIPS FROM DOMESTICA, PORTLAND’S BEST GREEN CLEANING COMPANY!

Continue reading “PORTLAND LIFE: Domestica’s Top Spring Cleaning Tips!”

Just Listed – Charming Arbor Lodge Ranch – 7008 N Mobile Ave. – $424,900

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery

CHARMING ARBOR LODGE RANCH

Come see this charming ranch with the perfect open layout. South facing french doors make this home light and bright all day long. This home has fresh interior paint, an eat-in kitchen with bay window, laundry/mud/pantry off the kitchen. Primary bedroom has a bonus room with an exterior door that could serve as a third bedroom, office or whatever your heart desires. Fully fenced corner lot with detached garage on a quiet street. Close to Arbor Lodge Park off-leash dog park and Chief Joseph ES.
Open House | Saturday March 11 from 10-12 | Sunday March 12th from 1-3

2 bed | 1 bath | 1042 sq. ft.
MLS# 23248336 | Taxes: $3205.61

STYLE EDIT: COLORED FAUCETS

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

COLORED FAUCETS

Add a little style and color to your bathroom by adding a colored faucet or showerhead! Take a look at these great options on our BATHROOM OASIS Pinterest board.

Continue reading “STYLE EDIT: COLORED FAUCETS”

New Proud Ground Homeowner!

Posted on by Nicole Chavira

🌟 CONGRATULATIONS NEW HOMEOWNER 🌟
.
I have to give a big shoutout to my friend and client Earle for achieving his long time goal of home ownership! The cherry on top is this was a Habitat of Humanity condo with Proud Ground. Proud Ground is a non profit providing homes that are permanently affordable for first-time homebuyers.
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Earle went through a lot of hurdles and extended closing with a great attitude and stayed committed to his goals.
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I am so grateful when I get the opportunity to support people through the journey. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to get the job done for you!

REAL ESTATE NEWS: AI-GENERATED IMAGERY

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

AI-GENERATED IMAGERY

 

HHHMMM… it’s hard to fight back the multitude of questions that come up when you think about AI-generated anything, but because we were curious, we thought… let’s give it a whirrrlll. 

We checked out Shutter stock’s AI-generated image program, looking up things like: “retro kitchen,” “baroque living room,” “space-aged bedroom,” and even a simple one – “bathroom,” and here is what we got! 

For some more artful inspired AI-generated imagery, check out @planet_fantastique on Instagram!

Continue reading “REAL ESTATE NEWS: AI-GENERATED IMAGERY”

Planning to Sell Your Home in 2023?

Posted on by Living Room Realty

Selling your home does not have to be stressful and overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you get started on planning ahead ⤵️

🏡 Understand your local housing market. Take some time to connect with an experienced agent who can talk to you about the potential value of your home and help you decipher the comparable sales in your neighborhood. (It’s not all just about square footage or school zone especially when dealing with older homes that have more unique qualities.)

🏡 When you’re ready, hire a listing agent – but not just any agent. Make sure you work with a knowledgeable realtor who knows about your neighborhood and where you’d potentially want to move, but most important someone you can connect with. Your agent will be your advocate and counsel through an emotional and sometimes complicated undertaking of getting your home sold.

🏡 Set up a realistic listing timeframe. This is key! Selling a home is not a fast or overnight process, it does take time. For example, if your goal is to be on the market by April, you will need at least 2-4 weeks of prep time (sometimes more) depending on the condition of your home.

When you’re ready, reach out and I can help you determine a realistic timeframe that fits your needs as well as help coordinate any help you may need to get your house market ready.

 

✨ CONNECT WITH ME ON INSTAGRAM

PORTLAND LIFE: PORTLAND WINTER LIGHT FESTIVAL 2023

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

FEBRUARY 3-11

Check out the amazing light installations in our city from the Willamette Light Brigade. Now through the 11th you can be dazzled by these artistic light installation. Thank you for shining light on our dark winter days-check it out HERE!

 

Continue reading “PORTLAND LIFE: PORTLAND WINTER LIGHT FESTIVAL 2023”

REAL ESTATE NEWS: WE ARE YOUR WISE GUIDES!

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

WE ARE YOUR WISE GUIDES!

 We totally get how scary it can be to make the leap to buy a house, or how much emotional work it takes to be ready to part with your home when you want to sell. We are here to guide you. We don’t just broker deals and research the market daily, we do much more than that, we help you through the biggest transaction of your life. If you or anyone you know is ready to make a move. We are here to help.

 

About Us: Over the course of their professional partnership, Aryne + Dulcinea have helped hundreds of clients prosper in their new lives. During this time, they have prided themselves in their top-notch selling abilities, with homes outperforming market standards, consistently exceeding list price while most of their listings sell in under 7 days. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Aryne & Dulcinea will work in collaboration to guide you in investing in your future and reaching your real estate goals.

2023 Is the Year!

Posted on by Veronica Powell

If 2023 is the year you plan to Buy or Sell, now is the time to plan and prep.  The first step is to decide on the team of experts to get you comfortably and successfully through this process:  your Realtor and/or Lender.

 

Selling

Now is the time to talk with your agent about market prep.  The right market prep can lead to a quick sale at favorable terms, even in a market that is…on the slow side.  Inventory levels are still low and Buyers still want the house with the beautiful photos that is (or appears to be) move in ready.  A good agent can help you achieve that goal.

 

Buying

Now is the time to find the right lender.  In a market with higher interest rates, a Lender that is open to a creative approach to your financing might be the way to get you the most for your money.  A lender that has a solid financial background, as well as being a mortgage originator, is the best approach here.

 

Bottom line, it’s not too early to start planning for a Spring or Summer move.  NOW is the time to get ducks in a row to make this transition as smooth as possible.  I’m happy to help with market prep, contractor referrals and lender referrals.  Let’s chat!

 

Veronica Powell

503.936.3475

Veronica@LivingRoomRE.com

A Thanksgiving Story

Posted on by Kat Gilpatrick

 

A thanksgiving story — not in a traditional, seasonal holiday sense with turkey and stuffing and finding enough matching place settings for all the folks trundling  your way, but one of some of the dearest clients: maybe-buyers I had the wonderful good fortune to meet in a lovely home I had held open in September, located smack dab in the neighborhood they’ve been rooted in together for years – they’d lived just a block away from there “close enough to get to Salt & Straw very quickly” being one of the qualifiers on location as it would turn out. Meeting these two immediately warmed my heart and enriched my life, setting us on a journey to find a solution together for the challenge they were facing: repair their current home, or search for something new to close a difficult chapter for them and move on from the loss and heartache brought on by a house fire Christmas eve 2021. They lost their cherished home they’d poured so much time and energy into. While they were originally planning to rebuild, they saw the above mentioned home in their neighborhood, OPEN HOUSE sign out front, and somehow that rekindled the sense that they could find something new to love and grow into.

While they didn’t end up getting that home, it was the jumping off point for a relatively quick adventure where we partnered and listed, we toured and talked, Lauren and Rafe, and their sweet chihuahua Ruby with them at times, at times (most times) on their bikes, and so much faith that the right thing was going to be out there for them, that would meet their requirements and also give them space to do what they love so much: woodworking in a wonderful space for Rafe to continue to practice this craft, and a garden in which they could both tend to the gorgeous yard — and get backyard habitat certified!

The Next Chapter

Working excitedly together, we found a contender for the perfect home in the Richmond/SE Portland neighborhood location as they wanted most – a home quite a bit bigger than they thought they might need, and older than they were considering — but with so many creative uses for the space, on the perfect street and situation and just such a solid wonderful house – their hearts and minds were won.  Built in 1899 and so lovingly maintained by a family that had begun their lives there back in 1966.

 

Their soon to be new home had a story – history, and a feeling of permanence and stability.  The home felt right and conveyed the kind of care and earnestness I’d come to know and love about this incredible couple. And of course, the neighborhood makes this area so meaningful for them to live in because of community as well as familiarity. As Lauren described to me: “The night of our house fire we were surrounded by neighbors providing us food, clothes, and support. This is such a caring community, and we want to stay in this area and reciprocate the kindness our neighbors have shown us.”

These two are getting married next year, and hoping to expand their family beyond them and their small dog. I can’t wait to watch them grow and move and thrive and add so much to our already abundant community. So thrilled for them as we say congratulations on their closing this November, and a very very grateful Thanksgiving.

 

Understanding today’s market environment.

Posted on by Living Room Realty

What is going on in today’s market?          Is now a good time to buy or sell?

Most real estate brokers are getting these types of questions on the daily these days.

As we move into Fall with mortgage rates bouncing around 6.5%, over twice what the average rate was 12 months ago, most folks think the days of over list multiple offers and 1 or 2 days before going pending are gone.

Not so fast my friend. Quality homes that are priced more on the conservative side are still seeing brisk movement and good sale prices. Case in point, a single story renovated ranch in Tigard recently went on the market on a Monday morning, had two offers over list in 24 hours and was pending by Tuesday evening.

This transaction went pending about 3 weeks ago and given all the market uncertainty currently the seller was very pleased with the result. Over list by about 10%, pending in less then 48 hours, no repairs and the appraisal came in on target.

In today’s market be sure and take a conservative approach when it comes to pricing, comps from over 8 months ago should be reviewed with a skeptical eye as they likely will give sellers a false sense of value when it comes to a reasonable list price.

The moral of the story is simple, be sure your agent is not being overly aggressive with your list price.

CLINTON/RICHMOND BEAUTY $650,000

Posted on by Veronica Powell

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPEN SUNDAY 9/18/22   12pm-2pm

This gorgeous Old Portland is gracefully perched above the street in a prime southeast Portland location. The spacious welcoming front porch is the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee or an evening glass of wine. A formal entry leads to the sunny and spacious living room and dining room featuring hardwood floors and original built in cabinetry. The generous kitchen includes a nook for dining as well as access to a private, fully fenced, back deck and lush garden. The perfect BBQ spot! Upstairs, three generous bedrooms each have their own walk in closet. The tastefully updated hall bath has double sinks for those busy mornings. The basement is unfinished and ready for your vision with access to an attached tuck under garage that allows for exterior entry. Perfectly located near shopping, restaurants, cafes and shops. An easy walk or bike ride to New Seasons, Clinton shops and cafes, and Division Street “Restaurant Row”. Updates include: Seismic upgrades, vinyl windows, siding, roof and sewer. Newer hot water heater, furnace and electrical panel. Enjoy all that this special house, and great neighborhood, have to offer!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beating Out 20 Other Offers!

Posted on by Living Room Realty

2021 and 2022 have been strong seller’s markets. Some Buyers might feel like they would have to look way outside of Portland if they had a budget. But that’s not the case. Although many homes have been selling for 100K+ over the listing price, there are gems throughout this city and in prime locations that can fit a first-time homeowner’s budget.

Brian and Kristin wanted a home close to SE Portland. It’s a great location and highly sought after. Many buyers were finding it difficult to find a home in this neighborhood unless they wanted to spend over 500K.

Brian and Kristin took this investment and decision seriously. We got to work culling through possible homes they could call their own. It took almost a year to find the right home for them. It can be a tough fight to win out on a home. The competition is fierce and sometimes you might not get the first home you put an offer on. That happened in this case. We sought hard, fought hard, and even though Brian and Kristin were beaten out a few times, they had persistence and positivity on their side.

One home came up that created a lot of completion. 20 offers were submitted on this home.  Brian and Kristin were not intimidated and gave it they’re all.

We got selected as the backup offer and when the 1st position buyer pulled out (due to the inspections report) we got bumped up to the first place. We negotiated to get the inspection reports right away; this is where real estate’s teamwork shines. We are so grateful to have a powerhouse of contractors we have developed relationships. We were able to get estimates on all the repairs very quickly so that we could negotiate for a buyer’s credit that would strongly benefit Brian and Kristin.

With a sizeable credit that allowed Brian and Kristin to not only get the home they want but also repair it to top standards, they walked away champions!

Brian and Kristin, we are so impressed with your positivity, enthusiasm, and cleverness in handling this journey. You were a joy to work with and we are honored to have been chosen to be your real estate bodyguards in this market.

Cheers to you both!

Just Listed | 5264 N Amherst St | Perfect University Park English | $579,000

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery

5264 N. Amherst St.

This delightful English Cottage in University Park is the one you have been waiting for. This spacious four bedroom home has a long list of thoughtful upgrades and improvements that nestle in seamlessly with the period charm. Improvements include new plumbing, new quartz countertops, newer roof, refinished wood floors, upgraded panel, new windows and NEW AC. Numerous built-ins and don’t miss the nook! Large lot with mature landscaping is Certified Backyard Habitat and includes greenhouse, studio, hot tub and private covered patio.

Open House | Saturday April 2 from 12 – 2 | Sunday April 3 from 11 – 1

4 bed | 1.1 bath | 2480 sq. ft.
MLS# 22285611 | Taxes: $5390.73

We Sold a Firehouse!

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery
My wonderful clients Abby and Everett found their unicorn of a home in the form of a firehouse! They had been looking for something specific for quite some time now and found it in this converted firehouse. Everett uses a wheelchair for mobility and loves cars so a big home all on one level with a spacious garage is the dream!
I helped Everett and Abby to find their Alberta Arts bungalow in 2017. They have retrofitted and styled out their home and it was perfect until they had twins!! With a family of four, their beautiful bungalow started to seem small and then came COVID and finding space for a home office too.
One afternoon, I got the call that there was something interesting that came onto the market. A big part of this profession is to be ready when opportunity arises! The three of us got out right away to see this converted firehouse and made a strong offer, beating out two other offers, one by terms the other by price.
The house is not perfect yet, but I’m certain that with the design and style that Everett and Abby bring to their homes, it will soon be amazing AND a perfect fit for who they are as a family.
Congratulations! It is an honor to be your Realtor of choice and I’m looking forward to the sale of your Alberta Arts  home this spring.
If you’re looking for a responsive agent that can tailor service to your specific needs, I would be happy to be a resource for you. Let’s go find your UNICORN!!

 

Just Listed | Light and Bright Hawthorne Victorian

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery

LIGHT AND BRIGHT HAWTHORNE VICTORIAN

$549,000

1331 SE 36th Ave
Lovely Victorian in the heart of Hawthorne gets a gold medal for flow and natural light. Open floor plan with a generous sized living room and a wood burning fireplace. The built in bench makes the kitchen the perfect central hub. Putting the flex in flexible spaces, this home has an exterior entrance to the primary bed and bath for an opportunity to Airbnb, separate it off as a home office or whatever your heart desires. Tuck under garage and driveway for off street parking and bike storage. New carpet, new lighting and fresh paint throughout. Coveted Sunnyside Environmental School and close in SE location! Fully fenced yard for your pup.

 

Open House | Saturday Feb 19th from 12 – 2 | Sunday Feb 20th from 11-1

 

2 bed | 2 bath | 1720 sq. ft.
MLS# 22011413 | Taxes: $4629.88

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Find more photos here.

Carly’s Clients!

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery
Leah Rutz was Carly’s client and I had the privilege to work with her briefly in the purchase of her condo. As Carly always did, she stayed in contact with thoughtful notes and timely calls and they became friends as often was the case with Carly.  When Leah called me to help with the sale of that same condo and the purchase of a new home that would accommodate herself and her partner, now both working from home, I was honored to be on the team.
To serve Carly’s people has always been a privilege AND fun, now more than ever it is an honor. I miss Carly and it is actually really nice to have someone to share stories with. It makes me feel closer to my friend. Carly loved her work and, maybe even more, she loved her clients. It feels good to care for Carly’s peeps.
Don’t you worry Carly, we’re here for you <3
From this beautiful Condo…
To this single family cutie in Irvington!

When you know what you want, the rest just falls into place!

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

Congratulations to David and Clara!!

Some folks just know what they want and it happens fast! This is definitely true in David and Clara’s case. This fun couple came to our team via my teammate, Jasmine Deatherage. They reached out, ready to start the process. We chatted briefly and I knew we were going to not only help them purchase a home but also have fun in the process! We scheduled our Buyer’s Meeting- a meeting we have with all buyers before we get started. We go over the buying process, what to expect in the current real estate market and how our team works. It’s pretty much a requirement for all of our buyers. 

But hey… that meeting didn’t even happen!! Right after we scheduled our Buyer’s meeting, a fantastic home in a fantastic location popped up and they wanted to jumped on the opportunity! Things started rolling along and we just filled in the blanks as we went. David has bought a few homes in his life so he was familiar with the process. 

And now, they own this darling home! The home has so many great updates, a fantastic layout and solid bones! Congratulations, David and Clara!! We are so excited to see how the kitchen remodel turns out.

Congrats to David and Clara!

What’s up with Cosmetic Fixers?

Posted on by Mel Marzahl

 

What’s up with cosmetic fixers? What are they? What’s the difference between a “fixer” and a “cosmetic fixer”? Here is a quick guide to cosmetic fixers. I’ll answer these questions and talk a bit about how buying one could be the best way to get into a busy market and what to look for.

What are they?

First, let me explain what I mean by a “cosmetic fixer”. These are homes that structurally and mechanically are in good shape but look outdated, dirty, or generally unattractive. Cosmetic fixers can be condos, townhouses, single-family or multi-family homes.

What’s the difference between a “fixer” and a “cosmetic fixer”?

In short, a fixer is a property that needs A LOT of work and may not even be livable (lacking heat, missing flooring, open walls, mold/mildew, etc). They are priced significantly under the average price for a similar property in the same area that is “move-in ready”. Fixers often require cash to purchase the home as lenders may not provide financing for them. A cosmetic fixer is a home that has “good bones” meaning its main systems are functioning well and it’s livable, but it may need a deep clean and some minor t0 significant updates to the cosmetics. Cosmetic updates might include things like carpet, paint, countertops, cabinetry, fixtures, tile, and the list goes on… It can also generally be financed as well because while it may need a deep clean and updating it is still in liveable condition.

What to look for

If you’re looking for a cosmetic fixer, you will need to look past a home’s popcorn ceilings, chipping vinyl floors, or dirty, threadbare carpeting and take a good look at the functional aspects of the home. The structural components of the home, like the roof, gutters, siding, windows, and doors should be in generally good to average condition. The mechanical components of the home, like the furnace, ac, plumbing, electrical panel, and ventilation should also be in good to average condition. Your realtor can point out things to take note of and share their experiences, but you should always rely on the expertise of a home inspector and/or trusted contractors to verify the condition.

Is a cosmetic fixer right for my budget?

Whether you are a first-time buyer looking to get into the market, someone looking to buy a second home, or an experienced investor, there are some things to consider first. Mainly, does your budget allow you to make the needed repairs? If you’re getting a loan to buy the house, you’ll want to look at the funds you have available after your downpayment and closing costs. Do you have enough money to make the repairs you want to do? How big is the home?

If you only have enough to cover new paint, some new hardware for cabinets, and an appliance or two, maybe a “light” cosmetic fixer or a more modest-sized home is best. If you have enough cash to replace all the cabinetry, re-do the bathrooms, replace light fixtures and flooring, you’ll have more options.

A way to stretch your budget as a first-time buyer, or someone who intends to live in the home as they fix it up, is to prioritize your repairs. Decide what needs fixing or replacing before you move in, what items you can do in the first year, and what things you can live with for a few years while you save up for the next project. Does the carpet need replacing or does the asbestos popcorn ceiling need to be removed? You might decide to do these items before you move all your stuff in and live with the 1970s kitchen for a while. If you go this route, keep in mind that you’ll also have regular home maintenance things to budget for as well. You may be saving for a new bathroom, but don’t forget to put a few dollars away to re-caulk and touch up paint the exterior next fall or to have your ac and furnace serviced regularly.

Is buying a cosmetic fixer right for me?

Well, if you’ve read this far, I think it could be! Deciding to buy a cosmetic fixer means that you have the vision for what a home could be with some TLC. It also means that you’re committing to a bit of a project. Cosmetic fixers can work for many types of buyers. Maybe you’re handy, you like a DIY project and plan to live in the home as you fix it up. Or maybe you’re planning to hire someone to do all the updates right away so you can move in and enjoy the freshly updated space. You might have an eye for design and see a cosmetic fixer as an opportunity to choose your own finishes and make a space your own vs buying something in great shape that doesn’t match your style. Maybe you see it as an investment opportunity and plan to fix it up to be more desirable to more people and sell it for a profit. Whatever your plan is, cosmetic fixers can be a good option for lots of buyers!

 

If you’re ready to start shopping for a cosmetic fixer in Portland or the surrounding areas, give me a call. I’ll happily show you homes with potential that just need a little TLC. I love a design project and can discuss how to meet your goals and make a place your own.

JUST LISTED: Exceptionally Renovated Classic Craftsman

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

JUST LISTED

 

Exceptionally Renovated Classic Craftsman

4114 SE 14th Ave, Portland, OR 97202 

Offered at $799,000

4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2002 SF | MLS#  21169366  | Taxes: $6,644

OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, October 30th 11AM-1PM

Video Tour

Gorgeous, remodeled Craftsman with hard-to-find custom woodwork detailing and built-ins, an impressive list of updates and character galore! Approaching the home, you’ll love the lush landscaping, Dutch front door and picture-perfect front porch!

This unique craftsman home has been modernized at almost every turn and it shows! To start, the home features updated cedar siding, beautiful energy-efficient wood windows, and upgraded insulation throughout the home. As you enter, the living and dining rooms are light and bright with gorgeous hardwood floors. The living room glows with a gas fireplace surrounded by a custom mantle and built-in shelving. The dining area touts a sweet corner custom-built wood storage bench with windows that let the light pour in and wrap around you.

The floorplan has great flow, smoothly transitioning you into the stylishly remodeled kitchen with stainless steel appliances, classic tile flooring & backsplash, custom island, quartz countertops, and lots of counter space. Just down the hall from the kitchen is a conveniently located full bathroom with a claw foot tub and bedroom/den/home office across the hall.  A large back porch just off the kitchen offers ample space for outdoor living complete with gas hook-up perfect for your outdoor grill.

An exceptionally beautiful wood staircase leads you upstairs to a magical bonus room that you’re going to love! It’s midway up the stairs, just perfect for little ones, furry friends or whatever your heart desires. Moving all the way up to the top level, you’ll find an awesome family room on the landing with built-in speakers and big, beautiful windows. The primary bedroom at the end of the hall is very spacious with vaulted ceilings and double closets with built-in closet organizer. The en suite bathroom features a walk-in shower with double heads and a lovely cedar sauna. Just down the hall is another large bedroom with tons of windows and natural light.

Winding down the stairs, the mudroom surprises you halfway down to the basement and offers a convenient side door off the driveway, just perfect for unloading the groceries. This mudroom is thoughtfully designed with heated tile floors, custom wood benches and wood shelving/hooks. One of the coolest features in this room is a set of built-in dog bowls & a faucet so refilling their water is a cinch!

Making your way down to the basement, you’ll find a spacious room with built-in shelving, bright overhead lighting, and custom blinds.  This area could be easily imagined as a private guest suite, media room, home office, or the coveted 4th bedroom. The adjoining room is the ideal utility room with a laundry platform, hanger bar for drying clothes, counter space, built-in shelving and a vintage double utility sink.

The backyard is beautifully hardscaped and connects the home to an oversized one-car garage with lots of additional space. This was custom built as a woodshop with ducting for a ventilation system, skylights, many windows, built-in shelving and a large loft. The sky is the limit for what could be imagined for this space!

You will love this sought-after close-in SE location in the Brooklyn neighborhood, just blocks from Brooklyn School park and Winterhaven School! It’s a fantastic neighborhood for walking and biking. Plus, an easy commute to downtown or to I-5!

 

 

Updates and Features

  • A/C (2017)
  • Foundation with earthquake protection (2006)
  • New basement slab (2006)
  • Plumbing updated with pex and copper throughout (2007)
  • Electrical panels and wiring updated throughout (2007)
  • Double pane wood windows (2007)
  • Roof with architectural shingles (2007)
  • Upgraded insulation throughout with spray foam (2007)
  • Dry wells each corner of house (2006)
  • Radon mitigation system (2014)
  • Garage has an electrical subpanel with meter
  • Garage is plumbed for dust collection system

Thank you for being a friend!

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

Congratulations to Laura & Her Kiddos!!

Laura is a good friend of my teammate, Jasmine Deatherage’s and I’m so glad I met her! She is so bright & funny!  And now, Laura just closed on that house!! It’s a super unique A-Frame with tons of exposed wood and a fantastically updated upper level.

Another great part of Laura’s story is that she was able to use funds from the Portland Housing Center’s IDA program to help pay for her closing costs! I highly recommend that you look into this program to see if you or someone you know might qualify. HERE is the link!

Jasmine and I wish Laura all the best in her wonderful new home!

 

JUST LISTED: Awesome Ardenwald Bungalow

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

JUST LISTED

8706 SE 28TH AVE Milwaukie, OR 97222 

Offered at $525,000

4 Bed | 1 Bath | 2872 SF | MLS# 21231882  | Taxes: $3,976

OPEN HOUSE: Saturday 10/2 12PM-2PM

VIDEO TOUR

Check out this charming Ardenwald bungalow in a truly special pocket of Milwaukie. The home shines with classic detailing and character galore! Perched above the street, you’ll love the charming front porch and lovely front door with sidelights. It’s the perfect place to relax with your morning coffee or just watch the beauty that surrounds you.

An inviting and oversized living room greets you with hardwood floors and 2 beautiful picture windows. The entire home is bathed in bright natural light and cozy vibes. The living room flows seamlessly into the formal dining room which acts as a nice axis point to the kitchen and spacious backyard. The perfect layout for entertaining both inside and out!

Moving through to the kitchen, you’ll notice how large & spacious this space feels. This kitchen features lots of storage, counter space and cabinets as well as dishwasher & breakfast bar.

The layout of this 4 bedroom house is an absolute dream with 2 bedrooms up and 2 on the main level.  The full bathroom on the main level is nicely remodeled and centrally located to all bedrooms!!

The low-maintenance backyard is lovely and perfect for outdoor living and entertaining. The yard is fully fenced and includes a large shed for additional, convenient storage for your lawnmower, outdoor furniture, gardening tools, etc… Walk only one block to connect to the Spring Water Corridor! Also, a short walk over the pedestrian bridge brings you swiftly to the MAX SE Tacoma/Johnson Creek park and ride for easy commutes and City fun!

Plus, loads of storage space and laundry in the unfinished basement!

This home has so much character, convenience and appeal that you might just fall head over heels!

Distinctive University Park With A View

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

Just Listed!

VIDEO TOUR

4717 N WILLAMETTE BLVD Portland, OR 97203

Offered at $625,000

3 Bed | 3 Bath | 2799 SF | MLS# 21344545 | Taxes: $8,235

TWILIGHT OPEN HOUSE: Thursday 9/30 5:30 PM-7:30 PM

What a knockout! Gorgeous, wonderfully preserved classic home with a classic Willamette Boulevard view.

Upon entry, you’ll notice the high level of care shown to this home with gorgeous wood floors, bright sunny spaces, remodeled kitchen, 2 remodeled bathrooms and a wonderful floor plan. The living room is perfect for entertaining with a classic wood fireplace, lovely mantle and large bay windows overlooking the city and river.

The open floorplan flows easily through the formal dining room and updated kitchen featuring plenty of counterspace, stainless steel appliances and classic tile backsplash. The formal dining room is bright and spacious with French doors opening onto the patio.

Moving through to the kitchen toward the back, you’ll find a fantastic informal dining room/sunroom. The space could be a wonderful spot for lounging, the perfect place for all of your house plants or a breakfast nook! This room opens to the very private backyard with breezeway to the oversized 2-car garage.

The layout of the home is ideal, with 2 large bedrooms and a full bathroom on the main level. The second floor offers a lovely primary suite with wood floors, a full bathroom, walk in closet and storage galore on one whole side room.

Winding downstairs to the basement you’ll find a clean basement with great ceiling height. A third bathroom just waiting for a remodel is conveniently located on the lower level. This is a very large space easily imagined as a media room, family room, yoga room… really, the possibilities are endless!

The location is ideal: Great for walking and biking. Check out this gorgeous and inviting home, you might just want it to be yours!

Just Listed: Bull Mountain Beauty

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

Just Listed

16117 SW 146TH Ave Tigard, OR 97224

Offered at $699,900

4 Bed | 2.5 Bath | 2893 SF | MLS# 21562518  | Taxes: $6,942

OPEN HOUSE: Sunday 9/19 11AM-1PM

VIDEO TOUR

Welcome home! This stylish contemporary home brilliantly balances modern and traditional elements and is certainly on par with the best that Bull Mountain has to offer.
Mature landscaping and a lovely walkway bring you to the front entry. Once in the foyer, you’ll love the vaulted entry and the wonderful circular floor plan.


Adjacent to the foyer is a voluminous formal living room & dining room with vaulted ceilings, certainly designed with entertaining in mind. To the other side is a spacious den/home office with loads of built-in bookcases.


Making your way from the living room you’ll find yourself in a gorgeous, remodeled kitchen touting polished concrete countertops, Viking professional 6 burner cooktop with downdraft ventilation, double convection ovens, custom walnut cabinets with birch interior and cabinet lighting, extra-large Blanko stainless steel sink, filtered water, and instant hot water. Just off to the side is a darling rounded dining nook with windows overlooking the stunning, landscaped backyard. The kitchen conveniently opens to a family room with lovely wood burning fireplace. A wonderful space for gathering with friends and family. All through the home, double pane windows abound to let the sunshine in.

Moving past the family room, you’ll find a large laundry/mud room with a sink, conveniently connecting to the 2 oversized car garage. The garage has built-in shelving and plenty of extra room for storage.
Making your way up the grand staircase, you’re going to love this layout with all 4 bedrooms upstairs plus an oversized landing. Each bedroom is large with ample closet space. The primary suite is spacious and touts an expansive bathroom with tons of natural light, soaking tub and walk in shower. Continuing through the bathroom you’ll find a generous walk in closet with skylight.

The 4th bedroom is a huge bonus room with wood floors and a coved ceiling- a great flex space!


Let’s talk about the backyard! Beautiful outdoor spaces and garden vignettes throughout this spacious property. Gorgeous, grand deck overlooks the lush landscaping and trees. Fully fenced with a generous hardscaped outdoor dining area and gravel firepit area. Convenient, newer shed for your garden tools and more.

This home is meticulously maintained. Just a few of the most recent elements replaced are the roof, furnace and A/C. Extra clean and dry storage space under the home, currently used as a wine cellar. Plenty of space for RV or boat parking with water and electric hook-up. Welcome home!

Congratulations Dovina and Leonard!

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

It was just meant to be!

If you know me, you know that I love helping people make a move. I love my peeps and I’m super committed to getting my clients into the home of their dreams. I will negotiate until my face turns blue and call every contractor in town to get information for my clients. I am committed to making this a great experience but unfortunately, you can’t always control how things go? For instance, I can’t make a seller accept an offer. I just can’t.

So here’s the short version of one of my all-time favorite stories 🙂

Leonard and Dovina really wanted to live in Newberg to be close to their daughter and grandchildren. Last spring and summer, we looked at just about everything that Newberg had to offer. It’s not unusual for the search to take a little longer when you’re looking in a small and popular town, like Newberg. After months of looking, they found a gem, a darling house that is close to downtown with a cute yard and great character! It quickly became competitive and we pulled out all of the stops. Long story short, Len & Dovina’s offer was the highest with exceptional terms, but in the end still beat out by a lower cash offer because they totally waived the inspection period. I just can’t ever recommend that a buyer waive all inspections.

It just wasn’t meant to be is what we told ourselves. That’s what we have to say sometimes to make sense of things when it doesn’t go the direction we would like. But this one kept nagging at us! We continued to look in Newberg for another year and kept comparing every house to the ‘one that got away’.  …And then it came back! Almost exactly a year later it popped back up and wouldn’t you know it, we put it in an offer and got it this time!

Cheers to my lovely friends, Leonard and Dovina! I wish them all the best in their home that was definitely meant to be!

 

Creativity is intelligence having fun!! – Albert Einstein

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

Congratulations to Justin!!

Sometimes I meet clients who have a unique vision searching for a special property. This was definitely the case with Justin! He is an artist and psychologist who strives to bring people together and build community around him. What a gem! 

Once we met up and started looking I quickly realized how unique of a property he was looking for and I knew this would take some serious searching and diligence. I was ready to be patient and do whatever it took to make it happen for Justin. 

But then wouldn’t you know it, Justin must be connected to the stars because he made it appear! He found a darling house that fits his needs perfectly! It had been on the market for quite a while waiting for the perfect buyer. We were able to get a great offer accepted for Justin and we were off to the races!

I am so happy for Justin and I wish him all the best in his sweet new home!

Being a Citizen of Portland

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery
Being a citizen of Portland is not a matter of where you are from, it is a mindset you bring with you.
I’m here to give you one man’s opinion:
Everyone wants to close the gate once they’re in, but more and more fine folks are moving to Portland. I, for one, am a transplant from Seattle. I moved here following my heart and have made it my home.
Whatever your reason for coming to Portland, I want to make you feel welcome. I, of course, work with a whole bunch of people moving to our area. Some have stayed because it felt right, some have left because the perception was different than the reality. Some leave again for work, some leave because of the long grey winters.  I do want to say that Portland is not just one thing. There are many little cities hidden within the whole and I hope that people, families, friends, humans, dogs, cats and pet fish all are welcomed and can find their perfect niche to call home.
I’ve heard it said that our  transplants from the south (ie: California) often try to get rid of the license plate as quickly as they can. But in reality, this is a city of transplants, just don’t be a jerk 😉

When your “New Normal” is…. freaking awesome!!

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

Congratulations to Jake and Nicole!

I think you can all relate when I say- what a year!!  The pandemic really threw a wrench in things (to put it very mildly) and we are seeing a lot of folks making changes in the aftermath. My clients, Jake and Nicole, exemplify this and are making a big change! They own a darling home in Overlook and loved it when they bought it. Working from home, through the pandemic, they realized that owning an older home (no matter how cute it is) can be a lot of work! They were feeling overwhelmed with the tasks required of them and realized that yard work was not for them. They felt inspired to look for a low-maintenance place with modern conveniences and a modern design. What they found was perfect! A lovely newer townhome in Hillsdale with clear grain cedar exterior, floor to ceiling triple glazed European windows & doors, white oak hardwood floors, wool carpet, quartz countertops, marble master bathroom, stainless steel appliances. I’m so happy for them! Congratulations!

 

 

 

Modern & Chic Abode with ADU

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

JUST LISTED – 412 N ALBERTA ST

Offered at $640,000

3 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 1860 SF | MLS# 21483637 | Taxes: $7403

VIDEO TOUR

Step into this immaculate, modern attached home with a fantastic layout! Perched high off the street, the first level of the home is easy living. You’re going to love the kitchen: stainless steel appliances, gas range, quartz countertops and breakfast bar. The flow between the kitchen and living room in this open concept layout provides convenient space for entertaining and cozy evenings alike. 

 

Plenty of comfort on the third level with a generous primary en suite and a second large bedroom with full bathroom. You’ll find bright natural light in the bedrooms with the primary suite offering a generous walk-in closet and bathroom with extensive tile work.

 

The lower level is a spacious ADU for guests, family, or additional earning potential! ADU features a large open living space, a darling kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a full bathroom and a large bedroom. As a short-term rental, this space has generated between $2300-$2500 a month.

The home has an Earth Advantage Platinum rating with central air conditioning, gas forced air heating and double pane windows.

Fantastic location close to shops, parks, cafés and restaurants! Great for walking plus a bike score of 93! Fall in love with this modern, move-in-ready, townhome. It’s waiting for you!

The ONE That Was Meant to Be

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery
Ok folks, I’ll just say it- It’s a tough market out there for buyers. We are in our 8th month of 1 or less months of inventory. That means that if new homes for sale suddenly stopped all of the homes currently on the market would be purchased in just one month or less. Some say, and I’m one of them, that about four months of inventory (Realtors speak for homes for sale) is a balanced market between buyers and sellers.
In this market my buyers are working hard and often having to make more than one offer to get a home into contract.
So when the right home comes along and it’s in the right price range AND there are really no sacrifices, you’ve just got to jump on it!
This is exactly what Jason and Laura did… and we got it!
Working hard to get or do something creates appreciation for the results and I could not be more thrilled for them in their new home.
Congratulations and good job on doing the work to get you into such a beautiful home.
If you are looking for a dedicated Realtor, dedicated to your success don’t hesitate to reach out.

Easy peasy… here’s the key-z!

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

Congratulations to Kari & Trina!!

I love referrals!! I think I’ve said that before, but it’s just so true! Every dang time.

Here’s the story, Kari and Trina found the dream-house before they found the dream-agent. We happen to have mutual friends who referred them to me and what a great match we are! They are fun, smart and know what they want. Perfection!

Here is what is so cool about referrals. When a past client or close friend refers me to someone I’ve never met, it’s far more likely that we will build trust quickly and be able to hit the ground running because the new client already expects to have an awesome experience. That was certainly the case in this situation. This was a competitive sale and we needed to hit the ground running. From the minute I met Kari and Trina I knew that we had trust and that we could do what needed to happen to get them into their dream house. And it was an awesome experience! Now they have the keys to their forever home and I hope they refer me to their friends as well.

If you or anyone you know wants to talk about buying or selling a home, I would love the opportunity to connect with them!

There comes a time when all the pieces fall into place!!

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

Congratulations to the Voelkers!!

 

I’m so thrilled for the Voelkers and their new home!! They exemplify patience and stick-to-itiveness! And now they have keys to a sweet 50’s ranch in a great neighborhood close to their friends. 

Everyone knows that things don’t always happen on your timeline. Sometimes you’re rolling with the punches and pivoting more than expected. The Voelkers were always game to try things out and walk away when it wasn’t right. That’s especially hard to do in a seller’s market and there’s no guarantee the next one will be any easier for a buyer. But, again, patience and persistence run deep in this family, and I admire that! Buying a home is no small thing and you should only buy the house that is right for you. This is surely the home that is right for the Voelkers! Cheers!

 

 

Clear Eyes, Full Hearts

Posted on by Living Room Realty

Today is special. Today I will give M & A keys to their first home. Their first home! It’s just so exciting. I’ve known M for about 15 years, we worked together, we commiserated together, and now when we see one another we can just chill together. It makes me so happy to be the person they chose to lead them through this process.

If you and I have ever had a conversation about real estate you already know that I find true joy in working with first time homebuyers.  There is just so much potential that comes with owning a home. In the big picture it’s a way to gain longitudinal wealth, an investment that may be used to propel you into something new, or simply the security of never having your rent raised again. In the day to day there is the feeling of safety, of having a place to grow and evolve, and knowing there is a place that offers comfort the moment you walk through the door. Lastly, we can’t forget the ever present improvements and projects. Sometimes fun and sometimes challenging, home projects almost always come through with an opportunity for growth. You’re going to learn things on YouTube that you never thought you’d need to know!

 

Sweet Kenton Cottage

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

Just Listed: 1816 N Watts St

Offered at $419,000

2 Bed | 2 Bath | 1135 SF | MLS# 21620220| Taxes: $2619 

OPEN HOUSE: Saturday 6/26 10AM-12PM

Video Tour

Check out this cutie pie in the heart of Kenton! Filled with charm and character plus a huge yard, just steps from downtown Kenton!

 

A sweet front porch and lush landscaping will catch your eye upon arrival. As you enter you’ll find a lovely living and dining room- perfect for entertaining or just spending an evening in front of the gas fireplace. Tons of natural light, classic woodwork, hardwood floors.

So much original character and the darling kitchen is very efficient and bright. Enjoy the dedicated dining area with a large picture window and hardwood floors.

The layout is perfect for a home of this size, there are 2 light-filled bedrooms on the main level and a large bonus room in the basement with 2 large egress windows and full bathroom.  This could be a 3rd bedroom, office, media room, home school room, yoga room… really, the possibilities are endless!

Backyard oasis feels very private and is brimming with beauty!

Well maintained with so many updates including triple pane vinyl windows, blown-in insulation in the floor, walls and ceiling, tankless gas hot water heater, earthquake straps, updated electrical panel and 95+ furnace. This house received a 10 on the Home Energy Assessment!

This location is absolutely ideal! Situated on a quiet street with light traffic flow just steps to downtown Kenton, the farmers market, restaurants, shops and the MAX yellow line. Convenient access to I-5 and a bike score 96!

New Beginnings

Posted on by Living Room Realty

I met Andrea at an open house and we immediately connected. Recently divorced, she was looking for a fresh start and a new condo to go along with her new lifestyle. She wanted to have enough room for herself and her two small dogs, some outdoor space and to keep the price reasonable so she could get back to what she loves–travel!  We thought it would be a breeze because the condo market isn’t as tight as the single-family home market so we went out on our search with lots of hope! 

The very first listing we saw she was in love. It was a nice stylish condo with some lovely updates. But there were so many offers! We found another one in the same complex, and again so many offers. A third… so many offers. The listing agent told us there was someone buying up all of these units with cash and renting them out because there was no rental cap. Ah-hah! Well, that explains why we were running into so much competition! We decided to move on from that complex.

Andrea went to an open house a couple weeks later and really liked the home but it was a studio and not quite big enough. Then, when a one-bedroom came on the market just next door she called me immediately and we jumped on it. We walked in and she knew this was it. The high ceilings made it feel so spacious! She was drawn to the modern finishes, appliances, quartz countertops and the openness of the living area and kitchen. The location was perfect in Beaverton: close to her job, close proximity to Nike, Cedar Hills entertainment, Beaverton Town Center, accessibility to the freeway and even right next to an aquatic center! The complex had so much to offer as well: clubhouse, pool, gym and jacuzzi.

We went all in and our offer was accepted. Now Andrea has a home she loves! She is investing in herself, trusting her gut and will have money left over for the things that are important to her. She said it best: “I try not to plan my life around someone else because when I focus on what I want and follow my instincts, things tend to work out for me.” Way to go, sister! What an honor it is to be a part of this experience with you.

Key day and a fresh start for Andrea!

 

 

Let’s Fix It Up!

Posted on by Living Room Realty

On a sunny Saturday morning I got a text from a client who saw a house in her neighborhood had come up for sale. It is incredibly rare that things in this small neighborhood come on the market so she was incredibly excited. The house was about a mile away from her parents, who she is incredibly close with, and was just the kind of fixer-upper she was looking for. A couple of hours later there we were, inside this house with amazing bones, great architectural details to work with, and a makeshift trapeze in the bedroom. I mean… really, what else does one need in their first home?

She knew immediately this was the perfect house for her, or it would be after she had a little time to do some fixing. So we got busy talking and came up with a competitive offer. We were up against several developers, who likely had oodles of cash to throw at this property, and we weren’t sure we could compete. And we were right, in the end we were not the highest offer. But our offer was accepted!

Three weeks later I was able to hand my client the keys to her first home. If you know me, you know how much I love giving keys to first time homebuyers. I feel like I’m handing them an endless world of possibilities that this investment will bring in the future. 🏡

 

Feeling “Whelmed”

Posted on by Living Room Realty

You know you’re doing something right in your career when a former realtor who no longer works in the industry trusts you to help her and her family find their first home to purchase. Munir used to work for the same company as my brother, who is a commercial broker here in Portland. So when it came time for she and her wife Lori to purchase their first home, she reached out to me to help them.

The journey wasn’t all roses and butterflies as we submitted offers on and didn’t get several homes that they thought were “the one.” Lucky for me these buyers remained patient, optimistic and good humored. At one point Lori told me she was feeling “whelmed.” Not overwhelmed or underwhelmed – just “whelmed.” 🙂

In the end, they are soooo happy with how it all turned out. They got a great house for themselves and their teenage daughter. It’s an adorable bungalow with a fantastic back yard with a fire pit for many fun nights with friends to come.

If you or anyone you know is looking to buy or sell a home in the Portland area, please contact Amanda Haworth at 503-453-7698.

Durham Dream

Posted on by Veronica Powell

Landing a property in this market means thinking outside of the box.  That was our strategy for these amazing buyers (after competing with 30 other offers on our last try) and it worked!!!

Bonus was the amazing private patio, perfect for relaxing morning coffees (and evening Pinot) all Summer long.

If you need some help landing a property, I’d be happy to discuss strategies with you .

Veronica Powell

503.936.3475

Veronica@LivingRoomRE.com

Sometimes Everything Changes

Posted on by Living Room Realty

My clients loved their California home for decades, they made a lifetime of memories there. They enjoyed amazing friends and neighbors, being close to the beach, and weather that many people just dream about. Their kids were grown, living in Portland, which gave them  every opportunity to visit their second favorite city often. There had been talk of a small vacation home in Portland, but they never imagined they would leave their home. Fourteen months ago everything changed. The pandemic caused a lot of people to reevaluate their priorities and for my clients the importance of being geographically close to their kids was clear.

We spent a lot of time touring homes in search of just the right place. When moving to a new city it can take some time to figure out the right neighborhoods and architectural styles to suit you – so we explored. After narrowing down their ideal neighborhoods and really solidifying what they needed in a home we started making offers. It took a couple of times in this fierce market, but when we found their new home we got competitive and it felt like the stars had aligned. Their son and daughter in-law had lived near this home when they first moved to Portland and affectionately called this “the banjo lady house,” because one of the owners was often out front playing her banjo on the porch when they would walk by.

As we moved through our transaction we learned that the sellers and my buyers had a very similar story. Both were leaving their long time homes to be closer to family. Both were artistic and musical, “old hippies,” as they described themselves. Everything about this transition felt right. Soon this home will be the, “flute guy house,” and I just can’t wait to hear the music float through the neighborhood!

 

 

 

Last Tango in Mt Tabor

Posted on by Living Room Realty

I first met Galen through his partner, Kyra, who I’ve known for years through my old college roommates and Oregon Country Fair friends. He contacted me to say he was ready to buy a home and asked if I could help him. Naturally, I said yes because he’s a great guy and I like helping people purchase homes.

After about a month of searching and some stressful pressure to move quickly on the homes he liked, we finally found this fantastic Mt Tabor home. This house has one of the best entertaining kitchens I’ve ever seen. It is open concept AND has double French doors that open onto the large deck and back yard. I have major kitchen envy. 🙂

Now, the market being what it is, we naturally had to compete to get the home. Luckily, Galen wrote a heartfelt letter about how he loves to dance and entertain, and along with our stellar terms that sealed the deal.

I can’t wait to come fete your new home with you at some point, Galen!

If you or anyone you know is looking to buy or sell a home in the Portland area, please contact Amanda Haworth at 503-453-7698 or amanda@livingroomre.com.

Dolph Park Colonial-SOLD!!!

Posted on by Veronica Powell

This one is SOLD!!!

…..but if you’re shopping in the area or live in this lovely little pocket of a neighborhood and are thinking of selling,  I would be happy to offer some insight into the current market conditions.

This one received multiple offers and Closed at: $1,078,000, $128K over asking.  If you’re thinking of selling, now is the time! Offers are compelling. Terms are strong. Sales are smooth.

 

Give me a call if you’d like to chat!

 

Veronica Powell

503.936.3475

Veronica@LivingRoomRE.com

 

Swanky SW Midcentury

Posted on by Living Room Realty

I just love a solid midcentury house. This one is no exception. As my seller prepared for a big move and major life change I helped them update and refresh this amazing SW Portland home. You may not know this about me, but helping sellers prepare for the market is kind of my thing.

This particular Mid Century Modern Daylight Ranch is filled with light, sits on nearly 1/4 acre and has two fireplaces! The hardwood floors are eye catching, there are two fireplaces(!), large windows flood the home with with light, and fresh paint highlights the architecture and updated period lighting. The kitchen has been refreshed and provides a perfectly functional space. I know what you’re saying, “This is all normal house stuff right?” But let’s not forget the amazing basement! This is your space to let your imagination run wild. You could have the best game room in your friend group, create an art studio, or add a second living unit. So many possibilities are ready and waiting!

Just Listed: Forest Park Treetop Retreat

Posted on by Living Room Realty

Forest Park Treetop Retreat

Forest Park Treetop Retreat

10272 NW Alder Grove Lane, Portland, OR 97229

Offered at $365,000 | MLS# 21423474
2 bed | 2 bath | 1,380 sq. ft. | Taxes: $6,145.86

 

Nestled in the treetops of Forest Park, this stunning townhouse is the perfect place to call home! High ceilings and lots of windows bring the outside in, while a fireplace anchors and adds warmth and comfort. The second floor features an open-concept layout, modern kitchen with SS appliances, gorgeous bamboo flooring, guest bedroom & bathroom, plus a beautiful private patio off the living room. The upper level features a large primary bedroom suite with a luxurious bathroom with both a shower and a tub, plus a bonus office nook. The garage is on the entry-level and is extra deep and outfitted with lots of shelving for storage.

Located in the heart of Forest Heights, this home has easy access to highways, is a short drive to downtown Portland, and allows you to enjoy the shops and restaurants of the nearby Forest Heights Village Center. Hiking trails and a pond with picnic areas, located just steps from your front door allow you to play in nature anytime!

OPEN THIS WEEKEND!

Sat 4/10 & Sun 4/11 from 1–3pm

Forest Park Treetop Retreat

Three’s Company!!

Posted on by Erika George & Kari McGee

 

You may see one happy new homeowner in this photo, but there are two more to come!  2020 dealt our  lovely clients, Chris and Jamie, and their mother, Shari, some tough blows.  Needing a reset and reconnection with family, they decided to move to Portland from Los Angeles together.  They called us and, almost immediately, we found this darling home in the Overlook neighborhood, which is a perfect fit for the three of them.  In this fast real estate market, the great houses don’t last long, so thankfully, Chris and Jamie were quick learners and took our advice on the various ways they could make their offer most attractive to the sellers.  They ended up beating out 12 other buyers to land the house.  Cut to 30 days later and their swift and decisive efforts paid off.  Shari pulled up with her moving van to collect the keys to their new house.  Chris and Jamie will follow soon and this family will get the fresh start it deserves!!

Congratulations Chris, Jamie and Shari – we know you will enjoy your beautiful new home and Portland life!!

Possum Queen and Brewmaster Find Their Home

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery

It is tough out there for our buyers but these two stellar humans did what it takes and made it happen.

Here it is in Stephanie’s own words:
“WE ARE HOMEOWNERS NOW WTF. What kind of millennial curse did we break and how? I’m in disbelief. Shoutout to Sean Patrick O’Feery and Carly Van Aart for being the best realtors we could have ever hoped for (if any of you need one, we highly recommend). But one detail he (the owner) left out that is of the very most importance:
OUR NEW NEIGHBORS SAID WE HAVE ALL THE TRASH CATS. Raccoons, skunks 😬 (maybe less than excited about that but they’re still cute), and HOLY JEEZ POSSUMS Y’ALL. I’ve got the possum sweats y’all. I’m ready to be their queen in my castle AND CREATE A KINGDOM. Bring it.”
There is some serious possum love here.
Congratulations Jake and Stephanie, well deserved.

If you’re looking for your own home with or without possums, give me a call!

Just Listed | 443 SE 46th Ave | $489,000

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery

Just Listed

Updated Creston-Kenilworth Bungalow

4437 SE 46th Ave Portland OR 97206

 

Updated bungalow with the classic white picket fence. Main floor has a fireplace, dining room with cedar accent walls, bed/bath and updated eat-in kitchen.  Upstairs is a wonderful large bedroom with bonus space for desk/crafts/nursery etc.   Basement has a fully finished living space, bedroom and workshop/laundry room.  Slider in dining room provides great light and easy access to enjoy the hot tub. In summer you will love the mature landscaping and deck. Ample detached garage for cars or projects.

 

3 bed | 1 bath | 2128 sq. ft.
MLS# 21597782 | Taxes: $4166.33 | Lot Size: .11 Acre

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here is the yard in summer!

 

Oh My God, We Bought The Farm! ~ Chickens & Goats & Horses Oh My!

Posted on by Martin Cross

Oh my God we bought the farm!  Chickens & goats & horses oh my!

 

When Kelly first approached me about looking for some property in the country she had several items on her “needs and wants” list. I don’t think she ever thought she would get it all AND MORE!!

She wanted a place in the country with at least an acre, preferably two or three, it needed to be move in ready-ish and preferably have a barn or outbuilding and space for a garden, chicken coop and possibly a greenhouse.

So off we went, over the hills, up the valleys and along the rivers. We went north, we went south, we went northeast and Southwest. Finally, she sent me a cute, tight looking 50s house on 6 acres north of Longview.

Not only was it more acreage then she dreamed of, it was already set up for horses, came with a barn, small greenhouse AND chicken coop, complete with chickens!

This was it! It felt like we had to act fast! The seller already had two offers in and more showings scheduled the next day. But, have no fear I said! We can do this!

Through careful discussion with the seller’s agent I was able to find out the list of terms and conditions that were important to the seller and we were able to negotiate a fantastic offer with a super fast closing date if the seller agreed to pull the house from the market and cancel any upcoming showings.

Even in this insane sellers market, through my knowledge of the market, great communication with the other agent, and the use of some clever terms and conditions I was able to get their offer accepted and Kelly and her family were able to say, oh my God we bought the farm!

 

The Best Part of Second Place? Back-Up!

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery
First- What is “Back-Up?”
Back-up is the term, often used by Realtors, to describe a second position buyer. If there is more than one offer on a home, a seller may choose to offer the people in second position “the back-up position” so that seller does not need to go back to the market if the first position offer does not work out.   Sellers often like to avoid the process of going back to market; making space for new people to see the home and a the paperwork associated with a second round of offers can be inconvenient and time consuming.
As a buyer, it is hard to hear that your offer was not accepted. Most of us move into a home in our minds before our offer is accepted. Coming in second place in a multiple offer situation can have a real silver lining though. The back-up agreement is basically like having a first right of refusal if the buyer in first position chooses to back out.
It seems counter intuitive that in this strong sellers market, buyers are backing out of sales more than ever, but it is happening. It may be because of the high level of competition required to just get your offer accepted and have the opportunity to take a further look at a home. Once a buyer has an offer accepted, there can be a moment after the competition is over and you look a little further, that gives pause. There isn’t a lot of time to think things through thoroughly in this competitive market.  This is making the back up position more valuable than ever.
My wonderful, experienced client Kate, who just got the keys to her new home yesterday, is a perfect example.  We had made, and been turned down on, two offers and were prepping for a third when we got a call back from the agent from the second home.  The buyers had backed out and we were being called up from the “Back-Up position.” Because the seller had one buyer back out, they seemed to be appreciative of our offer. We had some very reasonable negotiations around inspections and the sellers repaired an expensive sewer line. Now, because we were willing to take “back-up,” Kate is moving in to her new home!
Hang in there buyers and don’t hesitate to accept that second place prize of “Back-Up.” It is more valuable than ever before!
If you are looking for a buyers agent that is always looking out for you, give me a call!

Quick to the Draw wins SW Mid-Century Stunner!

Posted on by Erika George & Kari McGee

Congratulations to Tom and Kari for closing on this beautifully updated midcentury house in Vermont Hills.

Tom and Kari have been looking to move “back” to Portland for some time to be closer to family and to take advantage of the natural beauty of the Northwest. This home fit the bill on all fronts with an option for one-level living, amazing mid-century elements (two corner fireplaces), great neighborhood trails and streets for daily strolls, and serene forest-like views from almost every window.

 

Tom and Kari recognized that this was a special house right away and didn’t mess around when they realized it was going to be competitive to land this house. They were the first offer that the seller received, and they made their terms so compelling that the seller was motivated to act quickly on it. For that reason, while there was some competition from other buyers, it didn’t feel like the “feeding frenzy” that can be so disheartening for buyers. Kudos to Tom and Kari for quickly recognizing that the home was a winner AND for being willing to quickly take action to make it their reality!

Kari and Erika have many tips and strategies to make this sellers’ market work for our buyers. Please call us if you are looking to make a move!

I Love My Clients!

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery
These fine folks, Abby and Andy, contacted me after our mutual friends
 Aaron and Mallory (and their Hillbilly Hilton as seen below)
talked me up to Abby and Andy when they said they were thinking about buying their own home. Turns out I love the friends of our friends. Andy and Abby are great people and wonderful clients.
It’s a short story-
We found them their dream house in SW Hills.
We had to compete but got the house.
We had fun doing it!
And tonight, we drink champagne together at their new home!
Let me know if you’ve got goals to buy a home for the first time or the tenth, I’m happy to help and fun to work with.

Dancing Into Homeownership

Posted on by Living Room Realty

I met Dianne and Luke through our mutual friend, Angie. The three of them are part of the Lindy Hop community, and met when they were all living on the east coast. Lindy Hop is a form of dance that became popular in Black communities in the 1920s. The dance has continued to rise in popularity in no small part because of the uplifting and fun form. According to one website, “The spirit of Lindy Hop today is about inclusivity, creativity, and improvisation.”

This beautiful couple decided to transplant to the west coast and we started their search over a year ago, but due to issues with the sale of their home back east, they ended up waiting to purchase until the end of 2020. Though not without some challenges, we finally found them a beautiful bungalow sandwiched between the Mississippi and Vancouver/Williams corridor neighborhoods. This home is spectacular! Original details and updates where needed.

I hope Dianne and Luke are happy in this home for many years to come.

If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell a home, please contact Amanda Haworth at 503-453-7698 or amanda@livingroomre.com.

Keep the Faith People: A Success Story of a Zero Down Payment, First Time Home Buyer Experience

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery
A Zero Downpayment in this market?- Yes!
Under $400k?- Yes!
Cute house in SE?- Yes!
The loan is ‘Just for Starters’ from OnPoint Community Credit Union
Our Rock Star loan officer is Adam Rousse @ Adam.Rousse@onpointcu.com
 
Keep the faith people-
It took four offers on four homes in four consecutive weeks but my wonderful first time home buyers with an eye for ‘cute’ and attention to detail found a wonderful home to call their own. They took possession of their new home two days before Christmas and it was a joy to play a part in helping these two find their first home.
 
My buyers contacted me this fall out of the blue. 98% of my clients come to me by referral, whether it is from past clients, friends, an office referral or a lender referral, but there is almost always some kind of context. When the buyer called me and said that they had chosen to interview with me based on information they had found online, I was really surprised, but thrilled. 
 
Thank you to all of you who have left a review! Your kind words are finding their way!
 
These buyers agreed to a meeting in which we go through the process of a purchasing and I take notes on their goals. This conversation usually ends with the ‘with what?’ question, which is one way to say; what is your budget and what is the down payment? 
When these buyers let me know we’d be under $400k, ideally closer to $350k with a zero down payment loan… I took a deep breath. I know this market and I know very well that there are more buyers than there are sellers. We had ourselves a bit of a challenge, challenge accepted!
 
Right away we got out and started to tour homes. We saw some great ones, terrible ones, underpriced ones and some clearly overpriced. We made three great offers and got beat out very clearly on two. The third we landed a back up offer and the fourth we got acceptance!
 
The inspections went well overall but there were a few items that any buyer would ask for so we made a good case for needed repairs, requests were presented with bids from trusted contractors. The sellers signed off on all requested repairs in the form of $4500 credit to the buyers closing costs!
 
When the appraisal came back $4000 over the negotiated sales price we were clear for landing. These really wonderful buyers had been able to leverage a great loan option to their advantage and scored a great home for their first home together.
 
It’s my honor to work hard and get great results for my clients. I work with both buyers and sellers and love the work that I do.  I, of course, couldn’t do it without my team.  Thank you Nieka and Carly! 
 

Old Home Gets Love it Deserves with New Owners

Posted on by Mel Marzahl

Annabelle and Fabiana contacted me to help them sell their 70s, updated ranch in Hillsboro, and also to buy their next home. I knew selling their home would be a breeze with a few cosmetic updates. (See their listing here) My only concern was finding them their next home with such low inventory! As sellers, they got to reap all the benefits of the strong seller’s market we have right now. Especially in the suburbs! They got multiple over asking offers and closed at 9% over their asking price! As buyers though, they were in the tough spot of having to compete for the few great homes on the market.

Selling and Buying

We navigated this sell-buy process by asking anyone making an offer on their home to please include a free 30-day rent back. This means that all the potential buyers would allow Annabelle and Fabiana to stay in their home an extra 30 days after closing so that they would have more time to find and close on their next home. Every offer we received included a rent-back of some kind. Annabelle and Fabiana were happy to have the flexibility, and the extra cash from the great offer, to make their move.

We toured a few homes, but with so few on the market that matched what they needed, our search was actually relatively short. They lucked out by finding a home that had just come back on the market and making an offer right away. It was in an unusual location on an unimproved street, so that limited their competition as well. The home has more space than they originally thought they needed, and the location works great for getting to work and school. Their offer was accepted right away and we moved forward with the purchase!

Old Home Getting the Love it Deserves

The home that Annabelle and Fabiana chose is over a hundred years old and perched up off the street on a little hill. It had gotten some updates done here and there but it is in need of some bigger updates. During the inspections, they found a number of items that needed repair immediately. Luckily, the sellers were willing to work with them on those things. The sellers had a new roof put on the home and garage before they closed, and they also provided a credit for the cost of a new sewer line. Since I was able to sell Annabelle and Fabiana’s home for so much more than they were expecting, they were left with some extra cash to make additional repairs!

Annabelle and Fabiana have big plans to rebuild the supports for a sagging, enclosed, back sunporch and to repair a beautiful, covered front porch. They also plan to install new windows on the main level replacing cracked and dry rotted single-pane windows. They will also update some electrical items for safety, and update the bathrooms and appliances to modern standards. The house has a certified front yard habitat, and they are looking forward to maintaining the garden and growing their own fruits and vegetables, something they did at their previous home as well.

This 100 year old home is in great hands with its new owners. I saw how beautifully they cared for and maintained their previous home, so I’m sure this one will be just as well-loved. I am so happy for Annabelle and Fabiana and can’t wait to see how they give this home a new life!

Congrats Annabelle and Fabiana!

Long Search for First Home Comes to an End

Posted on by Mel Marzahl

Anika and Todd have been searching for their first home for over a year. It has been a long journey for them to find their first home. The toughest part was narrowing down what they really wanted and needed and then finding that within their budget. It was made even more challenging because of the increasing home prices, changing needs, and, of course, Covid.

Changing Needs and Wants

We started the search by looking at homes close-in SW Portland that needed some work. Anika and Todd have a great eye for design and what is possible with a home. We talked about the potential of lots of dated and fixer homes we toured. They researched the cost of putting in new kitchens, baths, and flooring, but eventually crossed a fixer home off their list. They decided that living in a project wasn’t for them, especially once Covid came and they and their two girls were all working and learning remotely. Managing and living in a remodel while teaching and working in it too sounded much less feasible.

We also looked at three-bedroom homes to start and decided that the family would need more space. With the greater need for a dedicated office, a four-bedroom, or three-bedroom with bonus room became a necessity. The extra room would serve triple duty as an office, playroom, and guest room for the day when the family can eventually come to visit!

Overcoming Challenges

With the changes in the family’s needs and wants, came changes in price expectations and location. We had to overcome multiple challenges with Anika and Todd’s home search. The first being that they are first time buyers without the huge cash reserves of many others looking in their price range. Because they weren’t buying your typical “starter home” Anika and Todd were up against other buyers who had more cash and were buying their “move-up homes” with equity from previous sales or other sources of cash. This made it tough to compete against the large down payments of other buyers, once we found houses they were interested in.

Their second big challenge was overcoming the reality check of housing prices and location. Over the year we were searching, housing prices increased by almost 8% in the parts of SW Portland we were looking. Also, when we started the search, we were looking at 3 bedroom cosmetic fixers in close-in SW. They were able to find this type of homes to look at fairly frequently. By the time we were making offers a year later, our search had changed to 4 bedroom move-in ready homes. Unfortunately, this type of house was over budget in the areas we were looking in so we had to expand our search further out to include the suburbs, places Anika and Todd originally had ruled out.

Writing the Winning Offer on the Perfect Home

After a year of searching, changing needs, overcoming challenges, Anika and Todd found an amazing home in Beaverton. It has three bedrooms plus a fourth bedroom/bonus room with interesting nooks perfect for a multiple-use space. We had to see it the second it came on the market, and after touring it, they knew it was the right one. They made a very competitive offer with great terms any seller would like to see. I spoke with the agent multiple times and developed a report with her. When we learned another offer was higher and willing to buy the home as-is, Anika and Todd decided to increase their offer to their max budget. They knew they could regret not doing so if they lost it.

The agent called me to discuss because their increased price put us neck and neck with their other offer best offer. We were told the only difference was that the other offer had a slightly larger downpayment and the buyers were willing to buy the home as-is. We chatted about why Anika and Todd weren’t comfortable with as-is, and while they truly didn’t expect to find any major issues, they couldn’t risk taking on a large, unexpected repair since they were putting their savings into the downpayment.

The sellers ended up accepting their offer anyway. I was thrilled to hear that the main reason they went with Anika and Todd’s offer over the other was my communication with the listing agent. Developing a good relationship with the other agent, being communicative, honest, and upfront while protecting Anika and Todd’s interests stood out to her. I don’t know who the other agent was, but I know they also wrote a very strong offer and were tough competition! Being a part of the deciding factor in my client’s offer winning out over another, slightly better offer felt great and I was so happy to relay that news to Anika and Todd.

A Long Search Comes to an End

Anika and Todd are now in the process of moving into their new home as I write this! The escrow process was a bit bumpy toward the end, with a closing delay, but we all got through it and both sides ended up happy. The inspection report was the cleanest I had ever seen, and the home needs just a few minor repairs and is ready for their personal touches. Anika and Todd are thrilled to finally own their first home. They worked really hard to make this happen for their family, and I couldn’t be happier to see them moving in.

Congratulations to Anika, Todd, and their girls! I can’t wait to see how they make their new house their home.

Loft Style Living in Multnomah Village

Posted on by Living Room Realty

I think Multnomah Village is a gem. It’s quaint, full of character, and undeniably Portland. You can find all of the basic necessities as well as galleries, great coffee shops, restaurants, brew pubs, a wine bar, and all of the shopping – really all of it, everything you could want or need, there’s a shop for it. And it’s just so stinking cute. All of this and it’s about a 5 minute drive from downtown with easy access to the freeway.

Often when we think of condos or lofts we think of downtown, but Multnomah Village really has a lot of great options. I just listed a fabulous loft across the street from the Multnomah Arts Center. It has a downtown feel but it’s in a small building so you don’t feel packed in. Natural light floods this end unit and the higher end finishes make it feel so warm. The gas range and slab granite counters in the kitchen invite you to cook for hours, and the wood floors and fireplace invite you to snuggle in and ride out the winter.

This is a great home, it’s definitely worth checking out.

Washington County Treasures

Posted on by Veronica Powell

For Buyers looking for more affordable property taxes, or just more options in our current low inventory market, searching slightly further west can still get you a relatively “close in” property.  With lower property taxes, it can also give you a little more buying power.  Many of these homes are still within city of Portland boundaries, even though they are within Washington County tax jurisdiction (vs Multnomah County).  If Beaverton feels, or sounds, too far out, there are options!  This lovely home in the West Slope neighborhood was just the right fit for my Buyers.

I’m happy to share all of these little pockets with you to help you find just the right fit for your needs.  Give me a call if you’ like to discuss what you are looking for in your next home.

Veronica Powell

503.936.3475

Veronica@ LivingRoom RE.com

Awesome House, Awesome People.

Posted on by Living Room Realty

Hannah and Sasha are just plain awesome and therefore it makes sense that we got them into a truly awesome house. They gave me fair warning at the onset that they weren’t in a hurry and anticipated being very patient in their efforts to find the one. Lucky for them, that the awesome house they wanted showed up more quickly than anyone could have hoped.  Congratulations Hannah and Sasha!  I couldn’t be happier for you!

 

Just Listed: 425 NE 92nd Pl – Updated Montavilla Ranch

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery

UPDATED MONTAVILLA RANCH  $349,000

425 NE 92nd Pl Portland OR 97220

This well cared for home has so many recent updates!  All new kitchen and appliances,  flooring in kitchen and laundry,  hardwood flooring in living and bedrooms, updated bathroom, interior paint,  front and back door, electrical panel,  recently cleaned ducts and freshly serviced HVAC system!  This well laid out home has three bedrooms and a bath off of a generous hall.  The partially finished basement is an excellent flex space.  The open living + kitchen + dining area has direct access to the back yard through the kitchen, with the laundry room serving as the perfect mud room.  Cute back yard has chicken coop and garage; ready for all your gardening dreams and hobbies.   This property has two lots and it appears that you have the option to choose from two different school districts, PPS or David Douglas! One of the options is Cherry Park Elementary School which rates a 7 on the Great Schools Ratings.  Buyer to do their own due diligence.

3 bed | 1 bath | 1796 sq. ft.
MLS# 20658102 | Taxes: $3209.65 | Lot Size: .11 Acre

 

The pleasure was all mine

Posted on by Living Room Realty

I love my job and the people I get to work with. Some days, I just have to pinch myself. People who know me, know that I just love to help others. I just love seeing buyers loving their new homes. I love sellers feeling satisfied with their sale.

It was such a fun surprise to come home to these beauties from an awesome client who closed on the sale of their home this week. It’s nice to receive a thank you, though not necessary. But hey, what girl doesn’t love flowers and a sweet little card saying thank you.

 

 

Don’t Miss This Opportunity!

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery
Offer Deadline Today at 5 PM
426 NE 92nd Ave
Portland, OR 97215
Stylish Mid-Century Gem

This mid-century Montavilla home has a well laid out main floor with updated bathroom, cozy kitchen and light drenched front room complete with natural wood built-ins, fireplace and stylish wallpaper.  Direct access to a luscious back yard full of mature plants and edibles. Yard provides tidy areas to lounge and entertain at a distance and dreamy garden shed.  Surprising basement with light filled family room, storage, laundry and a workshop  One car garage and additional off street parking in the drive.
Offered at $399,000
MLS# 20014802 | SQFT: 1900
 3 Bedrooms | 1.1 Bathrooms
Year Built: 1954 | Tax: $4191.99
Take a tour from home!

SEAN O’FEERY
206-795-0703
Sean@livingroomre.com

Get Out Your Favorite Pens Folks Because We Are About To Check ALL THE BOXES

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

Congratulations to Nathan & Isabelle!!

My clients are some of my favorite people! I’m proud to say my business is entirely referral-based which means there is a high level of trust naturally built-in to our relationship from the beginning.  Nathan and Isabelle were no exception. They were referred to me by Nathans’s sister, Jenn, who has been a client for years. As expected from already knowing Jenn, Nathan and Isabelle are some of the sweetest people on the planet. They were looking for a cute house with a yard and an oversized, clean garage. Nathan’s hobby is car racing so he needs a nice space to work on cars.

Nathan and Isabelle saw a good number of homes that didn’t quite hit the mark, but they were troopers and stuck with it. They knew exactly what they wanted and they were not willing to compromise. So, when this cutie popped up they knew it was the ONE and they were ready to jump on it!

The market is very competitive right now and Nathan and Isabelle were on board to put together a very competitive offer that was accepted without hesitation! I think it really helped that they had seen a lot of houses already, so they knew a gem when they saw it and were ready to fight for it. This house couldn’t be a better fit for Nathan and Isabelle! Seriously, it almost seems as if they manifested it, that’s what a great fit it is. They did the right thing by waiting for something that checked all the boxes!

Here’s to their new home!

Hollywood Here I Come!

Posted on by Living Room Realty

Wow. This truly stunning home located in Hollywood/Grant Park has undergone a complete designer remodel that successfully preserved it’s beauty as a 1915 bungalow. The home is full of  light filled spaces that feel warm and comfortable, even on the rainiest of days. Your eye will be drawn to the custom cabinets and lighting, restored wood windows, restored hardware, and beautiful hardwood floors. Behind the scenes new plumbing, sewer, wiring and electrical panel, water main, HVAC system, radon system, and earthquake retrofit will keep your mind at ease! And just when you thought it couldn’t get better you’ll find the separate living space in the basement with it’s own laundry, full bath and private entrance.

I love working with our sellers to make their home shine when it’s time to list… it’s kind of my thing. 🖤

The Highest Honor

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery
When I received the call from Lillian to work with her mother it was so excited. To be referred to a family member in this important business of finding a home, is truly the highest honor.
Thank you to Lillian and Justin for the referral!  They are friends and clients I have gotten to work with twice and now. Barbara, Lillian’s mother,  just sold her Belmont townhome to move to a lovely home in the Mt Tabor neighborhood with a yard of her own.  It was a pleasure to see where your grace and poise come from.
Thank you, Barbara for being on top of it all: prepping your home for a great sale, document transmission, email communication, lenders requests and the 100 other things that it takes to have a smooth sale and then to purchase a new home.
I was honored to be on point for you and look forward to having you as a neighbor. Congratulations on your new home!!
If you are looking for a trusted Real Estate Agent don’t hesitate to call.

The Sunburst House

Posted on by Alyssa Isenstein Krueger

Houses with the sunburst pattern in the siding over the front porch are special and this Irvington home with the sunniest of siding is no exception. My buyers recently moved up to Portland to be closer to family and after a couple of months of looking for the ONE, they found it here. Because it’s a special house, of course it had 3 great offers. My buyers were the first to write on the house, and when it came time for the sellers to choose which offer they would accept, thankfully being first offer in was a big point in our column.  Congratulations to my buyers on getting the first and only house they wrote on!

Work Hard & Be Kind

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

Congratulations to Maggie and Hoyt!

Work hard and be kind really sums up my whole work philosophy, and for that matter, probably my whole LIFE philosophy! It also sums up Hoyt and Maggie!

I love working with other hard workers. Maggie and Hoyt are a great example of how hard work, kindness, and trust can take you a long way down the road of life.

I first met Hoyt and Maggie years ago when they were purchasing their first home. And oh how time flies! Fast forward to 2019 and their family has outgrown that lovely ranch and is ready for more room.

One of my favorite parts of being a Real Estate Broker is helping clients prepare their homes for sale. It’s very rewarding to suggest updates and tweaks that prove to have a big impact on the outcome of the sale.  Maggie and Hoyt worked super hard and did an amazing job updating their home. Their kitchen remodel looked fantastic! And because of all that hard work, they were extra jazzed when they received 6 offers on the house!

So, you can imaging that after all the work Hoyt and Maggie had just done to sell their home they now wanted to buy a home that didn’t require much updating while big enough for a growing family. Plus, they have fantastic style, so that was a given! After a few near-misses, we found the CUTEST, remodeled home on a corner lot in Piedmont.  The big yard is full of potential and garden space, with plenty of room to improve the value.

I am so grateful to have hard-working and kind clients such as Hoyt and Maggie!

Chloe & Alex found the ONE!

Posted on by Tracey Henkels

Congratulations to Chloe & Alex!

Meet Alex and Chloe, first time home buyers looking for their first home together. They are whip-smart, fun, and data-oriented, which, of course, made me want to work with them from our first introduction! …But, Alex really got me when he said he was looking for an agent who wouldn’t just tell him what he wanted to hear. BINGO! We were a match. And, as expected, it was a joy to get to dive into the details of the process with them and give them my honest opinion throughout.

The market is very competitive for buyers right now so when Chloe and Alex found the house that checked all the boxes plus tugged at their heartstrings, they were ready to pull out all the stops to make it happen! Plus, I think there was a little extra fairy dust sprinkled on this one because even though there were 2 offers higher than theirs, the terms of the sale were strong enough that they managed to get into first position and breeze through the sale. We even closed a week early! Big shout out to JJ Lee Kwai at Two Rivers Mortgage for making that happen!! I’m so happy for Chloe and Alex. 

One more note, Chloe and Alex were referred to me by way of a wonderful past client who I had the chance to catch up with at my Social Distance Party this Summer. Hooray for referrals! My business is built on referrals for a reason and Chloe and Alex’s experience was a great example of why referrals are important. We build trust a lot faster when a friend has already vouched for the top-notch experience they can expect from me and my team. This especially makes a difference in our current competitive market. Chloe and Alex trusted my advice and it made all the difference in getting the home. 

Horray for Alex and Chloe!

When The Playbook Calls For An Audible…

Posted on by Chad Meier

A couple of real estate truisms…

1). The clearest path to success for our clients is often found by following a well thought out blueprint (a specialty of mine, as it just so happens).

2). We collaborate and honor our client’s wishes.

My latest listing in SE PDX is an interesting example of the above. While prepping a listing for a photo shoot the other day, I asked the homeowner if she meant to have left her BLM sign in the front window of her house. She said she was unsure if it was a good/bad idea and then asked my opinion. Having helped this person buy the home several years earlier, we’ve built our relationship on trust and candor, so I dive in “Well, umm, errr”, but then “The conventional rule of thumb in real estate marketing is to present a Seller’s home in its most attractive light to the widest audience possible. Again, just generally speaking, creating a space that a prospective buyer can imagine themselves inhabiting is the goal, so keeping personal items (like a Seller’s family photos) out of sight might help ensure that a potential buyer’s own vision doesn’t get obstructed. After all, anything that could limit a home’s audience could mean less demand & less bottom line for the Seller. However… There is also a scenario wherein a personal statement will attract and/or compel an even higher bid. Ultimately, there is no one correct answer here. After all, much like with a person’s social media account, at some point there’s usually a conscious (and very personal) decision on whether or not to try and maintain a neutral presence, or to just lean into yourself hard.” In the end, the Seller instructed me to include an image of her house with the sign proudly posted, just not the lead shot on Zillow though.

What a great little property and it went under contract (with several offers for well over list price) within 72 hours!

I’ve a blueprint available for your home too.

The Value of an Excellent Lender

Posted on by Sean Patrick O'Feery

The importance of a lender is not truly felt until you are in the process of the purchase. There are so many options for a prospective buyer to shop from, some great and some not so great. We, as Real Estate agents, have an opportunity to offer referrals for a trusted lender, but it is ultimately the buyer’s choice who they will work with.

 

In this short blog post I want to point out a couple of things to think about, as a buyer, to help you find the right lender or lending institution for you:

 

Does your choice answer the phone on a weekend or after 5:00?

  • I can tell you, from personal experience, that Real Estate happens at all hours, especially the weekends and evenings. Getting timely information or a revised pre-approval letter when you need it can be the difference between getting your dream home and getting your offer rejected.

Does your lender keep your timeline in mind and have experience with the local market?

  • A Real Estate purchase or sale is a list of terms and timeframes. The best lenders are looking ahead on all timeframes to set up for a smooth sale. They are communicating with you to let you know when you should be considering a decision that will affect your timeline. Namely, on when to order the appraisal.  A thoughtful and active lender will know if appraisal reports are taken longer than normal in your area.

Does your choice of lender have a track record of making it easy for you as a buyer and did they come to you from a referral?

  • As an Agent who works by referral, I cannot understate the value in having a first hand referral of the professionals you choose to work with. A lender is the third member of your team: It is you- the buyer, me-the agent and your lender that all work to make a successful sale. Choose wisely!

How do the rates compare?

  • I get it! The cost of a loan is important and the interest rate of your loan is important but if you can get the same cost and rate from a proven performer with a stellar reputation, take the time to get pre-approved with them, it could save you some headaches down the road.

If you’ve read this far, I’ll bet you can imagine that this blog is inspired by the wonderful lenders I work with and some of the others that have struggled.

 

Shout out to my top three:

Aaron Nawrocki with Capital M

Gary Boyer with Directors Mortgage

And JJ Lee Kwai with Two Rivers Mortgage

 

You guys are the best!

If you are just getting started or at any stage of looking for your home give me a call, I’m with you for every step of the way toward your goals.

I pride my practice on being full service from before the beginning well past the end!