Tag: Portland Neighborhood Guide

3 questions to ask when hiring a realtor

Posted on by Lily Ray Wyss

Here’s a hard truth:

Not all realtors are the same. 

And I don’t just mean when it comes to level experience it’s also the specific experience a realtor must have to meet your specific needs. 

Here are some questions you can ask next time you meet with a realtor to decipher whether they are the right fit to help you take your goals to the finish line:

  • How many homes have you helped people sell in the specific neighborhood I am looking to buy or sell in? 

Every city, neighborhood, and area is performing drastically differently in The Portland Metro area right now. It is important that you work with a realtor who has the pulse on the micro-market you are looking to make a move in. 

A townhome selling for $450,000 in Lake Oswego will follow drastically different trends than a single-family home selling for $850,000 in Lake Oswego.  

  • How many active clients do you work with at one particular time? 

When working with an experienced realtor who goes above and beyond to make your home goals a reality, we do a lot more than just open doors for you or put a sign in the ground.  

With that for many of us, we cap how many active clients we work with at one time so we can best support our people and give them the best results. 

Asking this question will help ensure that whoever you choose follows similar practices. 

  • Do you have experience helping people buy the specific type of home I am looking to purchase? 

Every home purchase is vastly different and that is partly due to the fact that every style, age, and type of home comes with its own particular nuances and due diligence needs. 

If your goal is to buy a midcentury modern it would be extremely helpful to work with a realtor who has knowledge of the water intrusion risks that come with Rummer homes and the like. 

If your goal is to buy a condo or another property that comes with an HOA it is critical that you work with a realtor who has a grasp on HOA common practices, and pitfalls and can guide you through the HOA review process. 

Does this all sound overwhelming to you? No worries. If you are in The Portland area I would love to meet with you and will answer all of these questions before you even ask in our consult and see if I could be a good fit to be your realtor. 

Buying or selling a home elsewhere? I have a solid list of vetted realtors across the country with whom I can connect you. This is a group of people that I have personal relationships with and will personally vet further to make sure that they will meet your needs. 

Reach out and let’s connect.

Also, you can find me on Instagram HERE.

Portland Oregon Real Estate Market Update for October 2024

Posted on by Lily Ray Wyss

What we discuss:

 

How the current market is full of opportunities for homebuyers.

How timing is everything for sellers right now in the real estate market.

What we can expect from the Real Estate Market this winter.

 

Welp. Interest rates did not see the drop we were hoping for.

We saw a temporary decrease as news hit about a rate drop but then saw rates increase just a week later and continue to fluctuate.

Due to this news, we saw a brief increase in buyer and seller activity.

For home buyers:

In general, we are seeing a lot of opportunities for homebuyers active in the market right now.
While rate fluctuation is making affordability tough, for those buyers willing to act, we are getting some pretty great deals.

Just last week we got some first-time homebuyers under contract on a home in the ideal SE Portland location everyone seemingly wants and we only had to compete with one other offer to secure our client this really cool home with an awesome backyard for well under $600k.

For home sellers:

This market has also been volatile for those looking to sell their home. We actually saw a pretty significant decrease in sold home activity last month, down 13% with just 1,702 homes closing. And inventory of homes shot up to 3.5 months. Meaning homes just are not getting the demand they have had in previous markets.

For future home sellers, the biggest topic we will be discussing right now is timing. Deciding WHEN to list your home will be a big conversation. With the election less than a week away and the holidays fast approaching many are going to choose to pause the sale of their property unless they have an urgent need to sell.

Homebuyers you should take note of this as well. If you see a drastic decrease in new listings this week you can blame the election. And know that while we will see things hopefully pick up again, we will see activity trickle the closer we get to Christmas.

Looking ahead for everyone:

BUT it’s important to note for everyone, whether you are buying or selling, that the market will typically re-energize come January.

Many folks will have selling and or buying a home on their 2025 vision board and often won’t wait till Spring to make those dreams a reality.

And if you are someone who is looking to make a move sooner than later know that the market does not completely shut down this time of year. For home sellers, there are still home buyers out there looking for homes right now, and often they are the most serious. And for home buyers, this market can give you a bunch of advantages while other buyers are distracted by being festive.

Want to discuss your options to make a move before the year is over? Or want to talk about your 2025 home buying and or selling goals? I am here for it all. Reach out and let’s chat.

Let’s connect further, follow me on Instagram HERE.

Exploring Houseboat Living in Portland, Oregon: Benefits and Drawbacks

Posted on by Will Sing

Houseboat Living in Portland, Oregon: Is It Right for You?

Are you considering houseboat living in Portland, Oregon? If you love the water and crave a unique living experience, houseboat living might be the perfect fit. In this guide, we’ll explore what houseboat living entails, the pros and cons, and help you decide if it’s the right choice for you. Let’s dive in!

What is a Houseboat?

A houseboat is a boat designed or modified to serve as a home. While many houseboats are stationary, some are mobile, allowing for the freedom to move to different docks as desired.

Pros of Houseboat Living

  • Waterfront Living: Enjoy wonderful waterfront views and easy access to water activities.
  • Affordability: Typically, houseboat living can be more affordable than traditional waterfront properties.
  • Mobility: If you don’t like your current location, you can move your houseboat to a different dock.

Cons of Houseboat Living

  • Depreciating Asset: Similar to mobile homes, houseboats usually depreciate over time.
  • Limited Financing Options: Few lenders offer loans for houseboats, and the associated fees can be higher.
  • Maintenance: Houseboats often require more maintenance and upkeep.
  • Ongoing Fees: Expect to pay higher fees, including HOA or mooring fees, since you don’t own the water or land beneath your houseboat.

Is Houseboat Living Right for You?

Only you can decide if houseboat living is the right fit. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Lifestyle: If you seek a flexible, water-centric lifestyle, a houseboat could be perfect for you.
  • Cost Considerations: While upfront costs and ongoing fees can be higher, houseboats can be more affordable than traditional homes.
  • Long-Term Goals: If you’re looking for an appreciating asset, consider condos or townhouses instead.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Houseboat

  • Five to Ten-Year Plan: Think about your long-term goals and whether houseboat living aligns with them.
  • Maintenance Needs: Be prepared for ongoing maintenance and higher costs associated with houseboat living.
  • Financing and Fees: Understand the financing options and the various fees involved in houseboat ownership.

Houseboat living offers a unique and flexible lifestyle, but it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully. If you value mobility and waterfront living, it might be a great option. However, if you’re looking for a traditional home that appreciates over time, you might want to explore other options like condos or townhouses.

If you currently live on a houseboat or have experience with this lifestyle, I’d love to hear your feedback!

Watch the Full Video: Houseboat Living in Portland, Oregon | Real Estate Guide

If you have any questions about buying a home or need more personalized advice, feel free to reach out to me. Connect with me on YouTube, Instagram, or Facebook.

For a more detailed consultation or to get started on your home buying journey, schedule a free strategy session here. You can also access my Free Buyer’s Guide to help you through every step of the process here.

Here’s how to not regret your home purchase:

Posted on by Lily Ray Wyss

It’s a sticky topic but let’s talk about it 👇🏼

There have been too many times when I am out in the world talking with someone or I overhear someone saying they regret buying a home.

But it’s often not that they dislike homeownership itself but the home they bought.

These are the main reasons I see people dislike their homes:

⁃ They didn’t fully understand the costs of maintaining the style of home they purchased. Many types of homes (like older properties) take a lot of work.

⁃ They stretched their budget more than they intended. Often if not counseled properly by a local lender, home buyers will focus on the price of the home but not the overall cost of their purchase and what their monthly payment will be.

⁃ They don’t research the neighborhood they bought in thoroughly enough and or didn’t test their commute.

⁃ They got distracted by unimportant things like the home’s staging and the marketed appeal but didn’t see past it to see the actual functionality and condition of the home.

If this all sounds overwhelming no worries this is where our job as a realtor comes in.

As a full-service realtor prior to even seeing homes, we will meet for a consultation and educational meeting and will have high-level in-depth conversations as you prepare for your home search.

During the consultation phase, we discuss what your capacity is to take on home and yard care when it comes to your energy, time, and finances.

On the education piece when it comes to seeing homes I’ll detail for you the realities of older homes and other styles that require a higher level of maintenance, and what it takes to care for a yard, or what it takes to pay someone else to do these things.

That way you can make informed decisions on what type of home is right for you.

I’ll share with you my Portland Neighborhood Guide full of Portland’s best-known neighborhoods, some less common ones, and the outer cities. Detailed in the guide you will find the best restaurants, bars, shops, parks, etc. So you can explore areas of interest before committing to living there.

I’ll connect you with amazing local lenders who will make sure you are empowered with the information you need to make informed decisions.

And throughout the home shopping process, I’ll counsel you to look past flashy home staging and will point out possible pitfalls in homes. And I will also help you see the potential in homes that may not look cute initially but could be a gem in disguise.

Basically, finding the right home for you is easy when you have the right support.

Want to discuss your options and co create your winning home buying strategy? Let’s talk. You can find my contact information below.

Unlocking the Dream of Homeownership in Portland: A Comprehensive Guide from Offer to Keys

Posted on by Will Sing

Embarking on the journey to homeownership in Portland, Oregon, is an exciting endeavor. With its vibrant neighborhoods, lush green spaces, and a dynamic real estate market, Portland offers a unique backdrop for finding your dream home. This guide aims to navigate the complexities of buying a home in the Rose City, from understanding market dynamics to sealing the deal on your dream property.

Understanding Portland’s Real Estate Market:

The Portland housing market is characterized by its competitive nature, influenced by factors like location, community amenities, and the city’s environmental policies. A dive into current trends reveals a fluctuating inventory and a premium on well-located, updated homes. Buyers should approach the market with flexibility and an open mind, ready to explore emerging neighborhoods or consider homes that might need a touch of personalization.

Building Your Dream Team:

  • Choosing the Right Realtor: Selecting a realtor who aligns with your goals and understands Portland’s nuances is critical. Look for professionals experienced in navigating competitive bids and adept at leveraging their network to uncover off-market opportunities.
  • Securing Financial Backing: Early engagement with a lender to understand your mortgage options and get pre-approved is crucial. This step not only clarifies your budget but also positions you as a serious buyer in the eyes of sellers.

Financial Preparation for Home Buying:

Budgeting for a home extends beyond the down payment. Prospective buyers should account for closing costs, inspections, and the ongoing maintenance associated with homeownership. Adequate financial preparation includes exploring various loan products, understanding the implications of interest rates, and setting aside reserves for unexpected expenses.

Home Searching Strategies That Work:

Prioritize your needs versus wants and remain adaptable. Utilizing online platforms for listings and attending open houses can provide a comprehensive view of the market. Engage with your realtor to discuss potential homes critically and schedule viewings promptly to stay ahead in the fast-paced market.

Making Your Offer Stand Out:

In Portland’s competitive market, crafting a compelling offer is an art. Consider flexibility on closing dates, a solid earnest money deposit, and minimal contingencies to appeal to sellers. Personal touches, like a heartfelt letter to the homeowners, can sometimes tilt the balance in your favor.

The Path from Offer to Ownership:

After your offer is accepted, the inspection period offers a critical look at your prospective home’s condition. Negotiate repairs wisely, balancing your budget with the home’s long-term value. The appraisal ensures the home’s price matches its market value, a step that can require negotiation if discrepancies arise.

Closing and Beyond:

Closing day marks the culmination of your home-buying journey but also the beginning of your homeownership adventure. Prepare by reviewing all documents and understanding the financial nuances of your mortgage. Once the keys are in hand, focus shifts to moving in and personalizing your new space.

Conclusion:

Buying a home in Portland is a journey filled with excitement, challenges, and learning opportunities. By understanding the market, preparing financially, and building a team of trusted professionals, you can navigate the process with confidence. Remember, homeownership is not just about finding the right house; it’s about creating a home that reflects your lifestyle and dreams.

For personalized advice or to explore Portland’s real estate market further, don’t hesitate to text me at 503-303-0822. Together, we can unlock the door to your new home in Portland!