Congratulations to Dustin, who is closing on his third real estate purchase in the last year! It’s been so great to reconnect with Dustin, who was a long-lost friend from High School. After trying unsuccessfully to buy a property – unrepresented – last year, Dustin gave me a call and asked, “are you still in real estate?” A month later, we closed on the investment property he had been trying to buy. 3 months later, he and his wife bought another investment property! Fast forward to this summer, and they just purchased a new primary residence, while finding a tenant to begin renting their current home. This most recent transaction wasn’t an easy one, and even involved a lender change during the middle of the transaction! But, with some creativity and brainstorming, we were able to pull it all together and make it happen. The extra hoops we had to jump through just make it that much sweeter to finally close! I’m so thankful for your trust, and am grateful to be a part of building your real estate empire! Looking forward to the next one!
Tag: Quality
Navigating with integrity
A Smooth & Successful Downsize
Congratulations to CJ on successfully downsizing, and finding a nice compact home, with a HUGE backyard for the doggos to run around in! I was thrilled to have the opportunity to work with you, and am happy for you to make this transition! Thank you for trusting me to guide you through the process, and for being willing to really “go for it” to get this great house! Being aggressive with your offer terms can certainly be scary, but in this market, it’s often the only way you will come out the “winner” in multiple offer scenarios.
It takes a village…
When Michele set out to find her new home, it was clear one of her top priorities was community. Having moved to Portland five years ago with her sister and Mom, her sense of familial connection was strong. She had been living with her sister and wanted a home that would support this daily support system and allow her to stay integrated in her nephew Bruno’s life. Moving into her own space separate from this cherished family dynamic was a bitter sweet prospect, until we came across a condo mere blocks from her family! Michele was able to embrace the excitement of having her own space, all within walking distance to those she loves. The village will remain intact! We have such admiration for their powerful family unit and couldn’t be happier for them.
It Only Takes One!
Big congratulations to S&V for purchasing their first home together! This was one of those rare moments, where the first house they saw ended up being the one! Props to the both of them for being decisive, and taking action — in this market, decisiveness is key, and it really paid off.
In my experience, it’s hard for many buyers to get over the idea of there being “something better” out there that hasn’t hit the market yet — especially for first time buyers. I have also learned that often times there isn’t’ something better, and many clients have missed out on great homes, because they aren’t able to be decisive.
Many of my clients have heard me remind them to look for that 85% perfect home, and when it comes along, be ready to take action! In some cases, it’s the first house you see, like this one was for S&V. Congrats to you both again, it was a pleasure working with you!
Second chance Bungalow
Patrick and Quang were out-of-state buyers who jumped into the market initially via a real estate app. In our quick market, the allure of convenience that these apps offer can be enticing. However, big business brokerages with alternative service models are often juggling overwhelming volume and are not always able to provide personalized service to their buyers. Such was the experience of Patrick and Quang and when they toured the perfect Irvington bungalow and made an offer, they were not armed with the leverage of information and strategy in presenting their terms and lost out to the competition. Some Portland friends sent them our way and we were grateful for the opportunity to offer them more engaged representation. As luck would have it, the bungalow they had been after came back on the market and we were able to present an informed, competitive offer that was just what the seller was looking for. We are so glad Patrick and Quang got a second chance at the home they loved!
They Finally Got One!
Congratulations to D&A on finding a great home in Thompson Woods! After a couple of tries in competitive situations, I am so happy to see you find such a great home for you and your boys! The home was built just 2 years ago in 2018, and features an open floor plan with beautiful high-end finishes, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and tons of natural light! The Thompson Woods neighborhood features newer construction homes built by Arbor Homes, West Hills Homes and Toll Brothers. This particular home was built by Arbor Homes, and features all of the upgrades and detail that Buyers have come to expect from this builder — large open kitchen, beautiful built-ins, high-end finishes and spacious bedrooms. It even has a Smart Refrigerator with a huge touch screen! I am excited to see you settle into your new place, and look forward to seeing your little ones grow up in a beautiful home!
Dream street
When first coming to Portland years ago, Jacq drove down a beautiful NW Portland street, lined with historic homes, and imagined living there one day. As we began touring with Jacq and Charles, there were many homes that seemed like potential options for their family, but when they walked into the gorgeously restored 1906 home on this very street, their excitement jumped to a whole new level. They anticipated finding a place that would work well for them, but the real possibility of inhabiting a house they were ecstatic about was eye-opening and they moved with surety on what is now their new home. Helping Jacq and Charles live their dream was a true honor and pleasure. They are warm, generous hearted people and we couldn’t be happier for them.
Classic SE Craftsman
Classic Southeast Craftsman
4016 SE Harrison St | Portland, OR 97214
Offered at $625,000 | ML #20434852
4+ Bedrooms | 2.1 Bathrooms | 2,540 SF
Classic Southeast Craftsman with all the razzle dazzle. Fantastic layout, stellar neighborhood, vintage style, solid bones. Original character: millwork, mouldings, woodfloors, built-ins. 4 bedrooms plus office & 2 bathrooms above grade. Finished basement w/high ceilings, family room & 1/2 bath. Full covered porch & back garden deck. Blocks from Hawthorne & Division goodies.
SEE Photo Slideshow
We get to pick this time!
First Time
After nearly 15 years as a REALTOR®, I still love helping first time home buyers. John and Shannon’s excitement and eagerness to understand the current market was awesome. They took on this competitive market with realistic expectations and an attitude of gratefulness. It’s not easy entering the Portland Market, but it is a privilege, and one they never lost sight of. Way to go!
Jessica
Educator, Advocate, REALTOR®
Empty Nester Plans
Bullseye
One thing Sahar and Tim were certain about from the start was location. We identified their favorite area of town, the “bullseye,” and built the search with this in mind. Because they were in a highly competitive price point, the houses that met the criteria and lived up to their location dreams were few and far between. As the search continued, they began to stretch their initial neighborhood goals. So, when a home they loved (and did not have to compromise on location for!) hit the market, they jumped and beat out some hefty competition. As we dug into inspections on this home, it became clear that the foundation issues were too great to take on. So, they bravely plunged into the market again. Finally, after many bumps along the way, we truly did find “the one” and in their bullseye no less! They kept a level perspective all the way through, which was such a testament to how wonderful they are as individuals and as a couple. It was a privilege to help them find their home
Community
Moving mom next door?
The rental next door to their secluded little oasis had been empty for quite awhile. Curiosity set in; were they planning to sell it? Could they buy it? So many questions, but they were not comfortable approaching the owner so they called us. We gladly did some digging and found that the seller was not looking to sell. Bummer, but the idea of moving Mom into their current home and moving to a home with more space and a garage was born. Congratulations Rachelann and Paul!
Tennessee to Portland
Jenny’s Mom lives in Tennessee with her brother. Jenny has often said they should move to Portland… but Mom shut that conversation down every time until COVID-19. The way COVID was being handled in Tennessee was simply not acceptable to them and they felt Mom was at risk. Within a day or two of this conversation, a cute little bungalow hit the market just around the corner from Jenny. This felt like fate, so Jenny called and we headed out to see the home that day and they wrote an offer that was accepted. Wow, Mom is on her way to Portland now!!
Community
In 2019, Priya and Sujata planned to move Mom and Dad and sell their home with Karim in February of this year. Priya was living with her parents and did not know yet what her next step would be until the idea of buying the home next to Sujata was born. They often helped their neighbor and knew she needed to move to a retirement community because the care and upkeep of the home was simply too much for her. Her need to sell was overwhelming her, and she discussed this with Sujata, which lead to the idea of buying her home so that Priya could live next door. But how could this work, putting their parents home on the market in December was not the best idea? Well, when everyone’s best interest is at the forefront, plans seem to come together. The path was not easy, and there were many uncontrollable bumps along the way, but the love and respect in their little community was strong and everybody worked to help one another when needed… 6 months later they now own the home next door and after the seller gets settled in her new community, Priya will move in and become part of her sister’s neighborhood!
1,2, PAUSE, 3, and Bam!
In spite of COVID-19
Multnomah Village
Multnomah Village Retreat
5822 SW Multnomah Blvd | Portland, OR 97219
Offered at $375,000 | MLS #20509864
3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 10,000 SF Lot
Contemporary one-level home, located a mile from Multnomah Village. Amazing lot, just shy of a 1/4 acre, w/established flora & entertainer’s deck, private and spacious. Vaulted ceilings, great flow and light throughout. Remodeled kitchen w/breakfast bar, fireplace, Master bedroom en suite, ample storage. Updated systems; electrical, roof, windows, A/C. Private setting, move-in ready and a mile from shops, dining & cafes. Home sweet home.
Photo Slideshow
The stars aligned…
SW River Terrace
SW River Terrace Traditional
13730 SW Sabrina Ave | Sherwood, OR 97140
Offered at $475,000 | MLS #20417498
4 Bedrooms | 2.1 Bathrooms | 2,000 SF
Bright, sunny open floor plan in River Terrace. Wood flooring, gourmet kitchen w/breakfast bar, pantry, stainless, stone & tile finishes. Gorgeous master en suite w/soaking tub and walk-in closet. Traditional, covered front porch & back patio. Gas fireplace, surround speakers, EcoBee thermostat & Central A/C. Community amenities: walking trails, parks & playgrounds, fitness center, sport courts, pool & meeting rooms.
Virtual Tour & More Photos
So many options…
The kiddos are what matters…
Mt Scott Farmhouse
Mt Scott Farmhouse
5915 SE 67th Ave | Portland, Ore 97206
Offered at $349,900 | MLS #20636020
3 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 1,058 SF
Mt Scott Farmhouse set on a spacious corner lot. Renovated kitchen w/breakfast bar, sunny dining area, tiled bathroom. Balcony in 1 of 2 upstairs bedrooms, main floor hardwoods, central vac, mudroom, abundant light. Established permaculture gardens; fruit, natives, organic beds, 25+ perennial edibles, patios for entertainment, custom fencing, double garage & other artful, urban farm details. Blocks from both Woodstock & Foster-Powell amenities.
Virtual Tour and More Photos
Time Capsule
The listing photos were dull, but the home was still intriguing and the property itself was perfect, so we headed out to see this fixer. Upon opening the door we quickly realized this was NOT a fixer but an amazing time capsule. A solid home that was well maintained and loved. It was like walking back to the 70’s with the period details and shag carpet in a variety of colors. It was simply inspiring and ideas on how to bring this home to life flooded in. We are so excited to see this space transform with the Colombo’s vision and know they can look forward to many wonderful years raising their family in this beautiful home.
CHAOS CONTAINED
“Let the right one in”
Kathleen and Sarah knew they would find their new Portland home… eventually. With time on their side, their plan was to avoid urgency and to hit the ground running come spring. But when a spectacular, completely remodeled Craftsman popped up in a great up-and-coming neighborhood, they knew this one was worth jumping into the market for. Everything about the home was lovingly cared for and updated, complete with a fully finished basement, and aesthetically, it felt like theirs. To put it simply, they knew this was, “the one.” As is often the case with gorgeous houses, the competition was fierce, but they were right – they put their best foot forward, and they can now call this beautiful space, home. Congratulations Kathleen and Sarah – here’s to following your gut!
Holy @#$! Can we make this happen?
Stunning Craftsman Renovation
Stunning Craftsman Renovation
2812 SE 43rd Ave | Portland, OR 97206
Offered at $849,900 | MLS #19580624
5 Bedrooms | 3.1 Baths | 2,776 SF
Stunning Craftsman Renovation. Gorgeous new 2nd story with vaulted ceilings, skylights, flooded with light. Master en suite; built-ins, tile, heated floor, West Hills views. Chef’s kitchen with breakfast bar, island, dining nook & custom pantry. Oak flooring, custom lighting & mouldings throughout. New systems; A/C, electrical, cable, plumb, insulation, earthquake, etc. Tall basement with family room, tiled bath, 5th bed, 2nd laundry & ADU potential.
See the Photo SlideShow
Claiming security
Tabatha and Michael had become well acquainted with the pitfalls of renting over the years. It seemed the stability of their current long term rental was always in question and it was time for them to take charge and step out into the Portland housing market. They came to us with a strong capacity for home improvement, so we went out in search of a great home for their family (with plenty of yard space for their animal family!) and did not shy away from homes they could put love into over time. They will soon be closing on just the family ranch with a large lot they were waiting for!
Opportunity Knocks
Paul is our go-to handyman, so we were thrilled when he requested our help finding a home of his own. His parents were excited to contribute, so finding a home with long term investment potential for all parties was a must. Because Paul has such incredible bandwidth for renovation and repair, our challenge was locating a home with work equity potential that was also financeable. The Lents neighborhood stood out as a perfect option for Paul, and when a home with great bones and the right amount of improvement needed popped up, he jumped at the opportunity. Congratulations on your new adventure Paul! We can’t wait to see how your creativity transforms this awesome place.
Focusing on family
Karen knew she wanted to be in close proximity to her daughter and grandchildren, so she decided to say farewell to her life in California and leap into the Portland market. After weighing her Portland housing options, she knew location was going to be her top priority. We were able to locate a cozy, low maintenance home with room to entertain mere blocks from her family! Congratulations Karen! We hope you enjoy your new lifestyle within walking distance from those you love.
Home Again…
A little over three years ago, Keeley sold her home to move to Sydney, Australia to be with her husband, Eamonn. They recently moved back to Portland just before the birth of their daughter, Harriet, in order to raise her closer to Keeley’s family.
As we started the search it never occurred to Keeley that she would find a home with a nearly identical design to the one she sold. Ever since she moved out, she missed the vaulted ceilings, the open flow of the floor plan, the french doors off the dining room, and the layout of the upper level. She was so excited to find such a well cared for home that brought back many happy memories of her old house and close to her sister… Less than a five-minute walk! They envision many fun weekends and evenings playing with their cousins in a safe, friendly neighborhood.
“Trees that are slow to grow bear the best fruit.”
Sometimes dreams require dedication and patience. For Erica and Shai, setting their sights on a dream home in the Laurelhurst neighborhood was an act of trust that it would appear. Perfectly decent homes emerged that met some of their needs and it would have been easy to settle for a home that wasn’t quite right. With a resolute attitude, they held strong on their goals. It paid off and then some! They now hold the keys to the 1911 Craftsman (with room for the family!) they were waiting for.
Nightmare on Elm St.
Okay, that may be a bit dramatic, but it is October, and this one definitely had surprises around every corner. That is not the story that needs to be told because the frustrations, the stressors, and the repairs are now complete, and they have the keys to their amazing new home. Buying a home can present a thousand possible bumps. We successfully navigated through the ones that came our way. Heidi and Jeff maintained composure, relied on each other, and trusted me to get them there. It is impossible to predict what handful of bumps will come your way when buying a home. With the right representation, these bumps can be calmly explained and navigated with clear choices instead of reactiveness. I am proud of our journey from pending to closed because what could have been a real nightmare was instead stressful bumps on the way to homeownership. Congratulations!
Happiness is what matters…
Deb and Bernardo loved their SW home with lots of space for family and friends to visit, but recently they discovered that Deb’s headaches were caused by elevation. What? They only lived at 300 feet… This greatly reduced their options, but her health was what mattered the most. We focused on the South Waterfront and worked through all the different options condos provide, struggling to decide if they would be happy with such an extreme downsize. They were close to renting until we stumbled upon the most amazing unit! Deb’s face lit up when we were there. Beautiful views, lovely building, and under 100 feet! Although it was much smaller than they wanted, Bernardo conceded knowing Deb was happy. Such amazing people!
Moving on up!
Honing in…
Moving from a small Eco-community in Corvallis, it was important to Rob and Huong to feel a sense of connection to their new Portland neighborhood. They had a great deal of open-mindedness regarding their future home, but one thing they knew for certain was how much they love the Mt. Tabor area. After exploring an array of different homes, it became clear that a low maintenance new construction home in a community they love would do the trick! We are thrilled to have helped them find the perfect home for their new Portland lifestyle!
The wizards behind the curtain…
Powell Butte Contemporary
Powell Butte Contemporary
5405 SE 131st Court | Portland, OR 97236
Offered at $349,900 | MLS # 19501551
3 Bedrooms | 2.1 Baths |1,392 SF | Attached Garage
Powell Butte Contemporary offers quiet cul-de-sac living with modern updates, blocks from Powell Butte Nature Area trails. Stellar layout; 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms upstairs, open floorplan on the main with formal dining and breakfast bar. Remodeled kitchen features granite, new cabinets & stainless appliances. Indoor/outdoor living; sliding doors, covered patio & side yard with established flora. Two car garage, A/C and ample storage throughout. Ready to move in and start nesting.
Here’s the Photo Slideshow.
SW Palatine Street Lots in Arnold Creek
SW Palatine Street Lots in
Arnold Creek Neighborhood
Lots: R164923 & R164924
Asking: $250,000 | MLS# 19618024
Zoned: R20c | Total SF: 42,100 | Taxes: $1,240
Arnold Creek Neighborhood Buildable Site(s) a few miles from Lewis & Clark, PCC, the Willamette River and Lake Oswego. Incredible setting near Tryon Creek, Maricara, Loll & Kerr Natural Areas. SW Palatine Street Lots back up to undeveloped land.
Two architects create vision…
It goes without saying that an architect can see the possibility in a home… endless vision does not mean endless money. We balanced the solvable with the unsolvable to find an amazing home in a stellar school district with amazing neighbors… Yes, they have already met the neighbors. People are simply drawn to awesome people. What a great family to add to the neighborhood!
Milwaukie Retreat
Milwaukie Retreat
14180 SE Upper Aldercrest Dr | Milwaukie, OR 97267
Offered at $475,000 | MLS # 19667557
4 Bedrooms | 2.1 Baths | 3,206 SF | 0.16 Acres | Attached & Detached Garages
This Milwaukie Retreat is set on an incredible lot with over half of an acre of land; garden beds, established flora, natives, trees & entertainment spaces. Expansive floorplan with 4 bedrooms on the main; including a master en suite, vaulted ceilings, open great room with breakfast bar, indoor/outdoor dining, fireplace and views of the beautiful yard. Lower level includes a huge family room with patio walk-out & craft/storage room. Attached garage as well as detached shop/garage and RV parking. Bright spaces, open layout, amazing land and move-in ready.
See the Photo Slideshow
Smooth as butter…
Three months ago our clients called to say they were ready to upgrade! The listing team immediately went into action to help them prepare their home for the market and the buyer team started the hunt. We researched, explored options, and patiently waited for the right house to hit the market. Once they were in contract on the perfect new construction, we listed their home and it was pending in 4 days… Sometimes the idea of buying and selling can feel impossibly overwhelming, but with the right team of professionals this process can be streamlined and seamless. Heather and Shoe closed on their new home today and their old home will close in 10 days. SMOOTH AS BUTTER 🙂
Jessica + Jenessa
Buyer Team
Karim + Martha
Listing Team
Dreamweaver
Woman of action
Jenny is a woman who gets things done. She had a strong drive for a home with space enough to share with her grown kiddos when needed, but still small enough for her lifestyle… and not without ample yard space for her chicken coop dreams. With Jenny’s focus and clarity on our side, we found just the quaint home with a double lot she was looking for.
Simplifying Life…
Head bonkers!
When you are 6’5” and looking for a lovely older home in SE Portland it is harder than one would think to find no head bonks… but not impossible. Sam and Shay found an amazing proper two story home in a jammin’ SE neighborhood. Welcome to Portland!
No Bull…
Achieving Goals!
After growing up in St. Helens with an amazing family consisting of 6 boys, Josh set his eyes on a career as a firefighter. He worked hard to put himself through school and volunteer at Columbia River Fire & Rescue. Josh set his goal for his ultimate dream job: to work at Portland Fire and Rescue. He received the call of a lifetime, an offer to begin his career as a Firefighter Paramedic in the city he had come to know and love, Portland. Now it was time to achieve his second goal … home ownership! Just as he did with his career, he started this process with complete commitment and found an amazing first home where his 5 brothers will help him put on a new roof. It’s fabulous to achieve goals & it is awesome to have a great family!
Jessica + Karim
REALTORS® + Goal Achievement Specialists
It’s their EVERYTHING house!
It’s their EVERYTHING house!
Accomplishing the main goal… why stop there?
Not only was the main goal met, this home exceeds all the items on their must, maybes, and would be nice list!
We are tickled pink to have been able to help Mark and Cayenne find their everything house! They are an amazing family that deserved amazing results … When’s happy hour on the deck?
Jessica + Karim
Dream weavers, fierce negotiators, swell people.
Park Place Condo in the Pearl
Park Place Condo in the Pearl
922 NW 11th Ave., #308 | Portland, Ore 97209
Offered at $529,900
MLS # 19373099 | 1 Bedroom + 1 Den | 2 Baths | 1,014 SqFt
Park Place Condo: Stellar finishes. Fantastic layout. This quintessential Pearl District unit features 2 full bathrooms, high ceilings, master en suite & mixed use den/guest room. Open kitchen/dining space, plentiful built-ins, fireplace and west facing 40 square foot balcony. Building concierge, deeded parking, storage unit. You’re welcome.
For a Photo Slide Show click HERE