• When Bigger is Actually Better • Teams in a Real Estate Transaction • Be Aware of Sales Agreement Revisions • Leaking Tanks and Ground Water
volume 5, issue 6
•
allthingsrealestatepdx.com
HOMEBUY ER'S GUIDE: The Journey to Buying a Home he first step in the home-buying process is making some key decisions. Answering important questions early, like how much home you can afford, what type of home you want to buy and other key considerations, will help smooth the process later on. A step-by-step guide to the home-buying process On the journey to homeownership, this helpful guide will serve as your roadmap with information to make you feel confident and assured in your decisions. And if you ever find yourself feeling lost, a PrimeLending loan officer is always here to offer further guidance.
STEP ONE: Decisions, Decisions
The home-buying process begins with some key considerations that will ensure that you start this journey on the right foot. Are you sure that buying is the best option? While buying a home may seem like it is always the right decision, it might not necessarily be the case for everyone. For some, renting is the more prudent option.
Once you compare buying vs. renting, you are ready to make the best decision for your current situation. How much home can you afford? Once you have decided that purchasing a home is right for you, you next will want to think about how much home you want to own. Knowing what you can afford in a home will help focus your search. How much space will you need? How much space can you afford? Answering these questions honestly will help you find the right home for your needs. What type of home do you want to own? Now that you know what you can afford, you can determine what type of home best fits your needs. Consider the differences between a single-family home, a condo and other housing options. This will help save you time and frustration in your search. Ask the experts The home-buying process is a major investment, of both time and money. Working with the right loan professionals will make the process infinitely easier on both your peace of mind and your bottom line. They key is to put together a team
• 10 Ways to Keep Your Cool This Summer
that you trust will have your best interests at heart. PrimeLending has become an industry leader by doing just that.
Join us next month for STEP TWO: Laying the Foundation.
Please call or check us out online today to learn more . Lake Oswego Matt Eckard Branch Manager 503-707-5607 meckard@primelending.com NMLS 413446 Portland Office Mark Holzmann Branch Manager 503-781-1223 mholzmann@primelending.com NMLS 121425 Clackamas Office Alex Warnock Branch Manager 360-789-9973 awarnock@primelending.com NMLS 110915 Disclosures: All loans subject to credit approval. Rates and fees subject to change. Mortgage financing provided by PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company. Equal Housing Lender. © 2015 PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company. PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company (NMLS: 13649) is a wholly owned subsidiary of a state-chartered bank and is licensed by: WA Dept. of Financial Institutionsconsumer lender lic no. CL-13649. V032514.
TIPS FOR MAXIMIZING
SMALL SPACES Clutter driving you nuts? Here are 7 tips to help you make the most out of small spaces: 1. Weed out the extras. A yard sale will alleviate some clutter and a trip to the local Goodwill even more. A good rule of thumb: Anything you haven’t needed in a year can go. 2. Bookcases are for more than books! Your walls are your vertical friends for storage, and good book shelving can include plants, valuables, artwork and more. 3. Wall-mount entertainment systems. Television / cable / DVD cabinets are so pre-2000! Free up floor space by going with sleek bolt-in mounts. (Just make sure they’re anchored properly!) 4. Don’t pile it, hang it! This is especially true in kitchens where you can use pot racks, hanging baskets, and even wall-mounted shelving units. funhometips.com Brought to you by:
503.208.3797 dwell@dwellrealtypdx.com www.dwellrealtypdx.com allthingsrealestatepdx.com | 1
southeast Address
Bdr Bth
ON THE COVER:
937 NW Glisan St
Price
Sip a glass of wine as the sun sets and the lights of the city come to life. Entertain
HOUSES • AS OF 6/7 2344 SE 135TH AVE 7315 SE 66TH AVE 5627 SE HENDERSON ST 6440 SE 84TH AVE 4303 SE 76TH AVE 3022 SE 156TH AVE 17838 SE LINCOLN ST 6331 SE 89TH AVE 13808 SE CENTER ST 13916 SE HENRY ST 16725 SE NAEGELI DR 1122 SE 112TH AVE 2944 SE 79TH AVE 7912 SE 52ND AVE 4150 SE CESAR E CHAVEZ 5439 SE 89TH AVE 5635 SE MALDEN ST 712 SE 42ND AVE 2014 SE 88TH AVE 1545 SE 129TH AVE 3829 SE 65TH AVE 7004 SE 116TH AVE 11034 SE HENDERSON DR 2323 SE 110TH AVE 5341 SE 105 AVE 4431 SE 50TH AVE 4628 SE 30TH AVE 8827 SE ALDER ST 14034 SE MALL ST 7935 SE CENTER ST 6929 SE CORA ST 11006 SE HAROLD ST 2021 SE 112TH AVE 3028 SE 55TH AVE 3137 SE 65TH AVE 1107 SE 123RD AVE 7927 SE WOODWARD ST 3411 SE 59TH AVE 2927 SE 75TH AVE
4 2 3 2 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 3 3 2 2 2 2 3 2 4 3 3 4 3 2 3 3 4 4 3 3 2 3 5 4 2 3
2 1 2 1.1 2 1 1 1 2 2 2 1 1 2.1 2 2 1 1 1 2 1 3 2 1.1 2.1 1 1 1 3 2 1 2.1 2.1 1 1 3 2.2 2 1
$140,000 $165,000 $169,900 $179,900 $199,900 $204,900 $209,890 $219,900 $228,000 $229,900 $235,000 $239,000 $239,900 $249,000 $249,900 $249,950 $250,000 $250,000 $259,000 $268,000 $275,000 $275,000 $279,900 $289,900 $291,000 $295,000 $299,000 $299,000 $299,900 $310,000 $319,900 $320,000 $320,000 $324,950 $325,000 $325,000 $344,900 $349,000 $349,900
friends while enjoying the stunning 150 degree views through the floor to ceiling windows. Located on the SE corner, this unit promises endless reflection and beauty for
2 bdrm • 2 bth • 1584 sq ft • MLS# 15296478 • $775,000 Kathleen O'Donnell, O'Donnell Group Realty 503-519-3400 • odonnellgrouprealty.com
F ROM T H E E D I TOR
southwest Address
Bdr Bth
Price
W
But moving into a new space can be chaotic, and in that chaos, there are always a few things that don’t make it into the shopping cart. And a month later when you’re hanging art, you really wish you’d bought that level. That’s okay. You’re not alone! Here are 13 things almost every homeowner forgets to buy:
HOUSES • AS OF 5/24 9205 SW 1ST AVE 2 9520 SW TERWILLIGER BLVD 5 12825 SW FAIRCREST ST 3 1031 SW TROY ST 2 1736 SW MILES ST 3 3270 SW HUBER ST 3 9443 SW 52ND AVE 4 9425 SW WILSHIRE ST 4 3421 SW CARAWAY CT 3 4842 SW ELM LN 3 8226 SW 9TH AVE 4 5135 SW BUDDINGTON ST 3 7780 SW WEST SLOPE DR 4 1507 SW HUME CT 4 3242 SW STEPHENSON ST 3 5816 SW HUDDLESON ST 5 1605 SW PALATINE ST 3 10993 SW WASHINGTON ST 4 4000 SW VIEW POINT TER 3 80 SW 101ST AVE 3 1123 SW 57TH AVE 3 11506 SW 41ST AVE 4 1632 SW WESTWOOD CT 3 7049 SW WINDEMERE LOOP 3 4647 SW 37TH AVE 4 15 SW CUSTER ST 3 5935 SW CORBETT AVE 4 3229 SW HAMILTON CT 3 25 SW 97TH AVE 3 7233 SW 13TH AVE 4 4908 SW BARNES RD 3 8125 SW BIRCHWOOD RD 4 5759 SW 48TH AVE 4 3630 SW PATTON RD 3
1 2 2 1 1 2 2 2 2.1 2 2 2 2 2.1 3 4 2 2.1 2 2.1 2 3.1 2 2.1 3 2.1 2.1 2 2.1 2.1 2.1 2 3 2.1
$274,900 $279,000 $289,900 $297,500 $325,000 $326,000 $330,000 $374,000 $385,000 $420,000 $420,000 $425,000 $439,950 $445,000 $449,995 $459,000 $459,900 $469,900 $485,000 $489,900 $495,000 $520,000 $529,000 $539,000 $550,900 $569,900 $569,900 $579,000 $580,000 $600,000 $649,900 $665,000 $685,000 $695,000
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Tracey Hicks • 503.317.5834 tracey@allthingsrealestatepdx.com
2 | allthingsrealestatepdx.com
Level Have you ever seen a painting or photo in someone’s home that’s just crooked enough to be noticeable? Yeah. That’s really annoying. A level doesn’t just make sure your artwork is straight; you can also use it for hanging shelves, mirrors or sconces. Guest Towels You may have purchased a new, plushy set of towels for you and your partner, but chances are you weren’t thinking about towels for your first houseguests. Grab a new set of guest towels so no one is left using your old beach towels to dry off. Oven Mitt What’s worse than an oven mitt that does a poor job of keeping heat from your hands? Not having an oven mitt at all. No, really – using a dishtowel puts you at risk for serious burns 99.9 percent of the time.
colors only enhance the sophistication and comfort. You have arrived.
THINGS EVERY NEW HOMEOWNER FORGETS TO BUY
Check out my favorite find this month!
hen you first moved into your home, you probably trekked over to Target or logged onto Amazon and stocked up on all of the obvious stuff like light bulbs, a hammer and a few cleaning supplies.
years to come. Thoughtfully chosen custom
Plunger It only takes one traumatic bathroom experience before you realize you forgot to buy one of the most important bathroom tools: a plunger. Fire Extinguisher If you remembered to purchase a fire extinguisher, cheers to you! (They’re really important.) However, there is a common misconception that “one kind fits all.” Not true! You actually need a specific kind of extinguisher depending on the type of fire you need to put out. Mixing Bowls They may not be as sexy as a mandolin slicer or a new set of knives, but when it comes to your kitchen, mixing bowls are a must-have part of cooking, especially if they’re durable and easy to store. Coasters Save yourself the stress of finding drink rings on your new coffee table by purchasing some coasters. There are a lot of options out there, so we suggest going with some that are practical and sturdy without sacrificing style. Food Thermometer A food thermometer is not just for perfecting a pot roast or an egg-based dessert – it’s important for food safety, too. A food thermometer is essential to making sure your dinner has been cooked (or re-heated) to the correct temperature to prevent illness or contamination. Paper Towel Holder Okay, a paper towel holder may not be something that will make or break your kitchen, but we still think it’s nice to have, especially if it’s durable (read: not
E X E C U T I V E A S S I S TA N T Alexa Fountaine • 971.404.6773 alexa.atre@gmail.com
JOURNALISM INTERN Ravan Dosange rdosange@gmail.com
plastic). After all, you’re likely to use this every day. Welcome Mat Think of your entryway as your home’s first impression: it’s the first thing guests will see as they enter your home. All the more reason to deck out your front porch or entryway with a fun, stylish welcome mat! Salt and Pepper Shakers You could just use the containers that your salt and pepper came in from the grocery store, but let’s be honest: those are ugly. Salt and pepper shakers are an inexpensive way to show off your decorating personality without sacrificing functionality. Watering Can You may have filled your home with houseplants, but how are you going to water them? That’s where a small, easily storable watering can comes in handy. Tea Kettle No kitchen is complete without a way to boil water for tea and coffee. When it comes to tea kettles, it’s worth it to spend a little more to get a little more – any kettle under $25 can chip or worse, rust!
For more ideas visit brightnest.com
Tracey
~
GRAPHIC DESIGN Audrey Moran audreymdesigns@gmail.com
No one in real estate cares more OR works harder to get it right the first time. You'll see. • • • •
Exceptional work ethic Commitment to clients Cutting-edge, innovative marketing Serving high-net-worth clients and first-time buyers • Luxury Home Specialist
Principal Broker CRS, ABR, ePRO, Master Circle
Specializing in restored and vintage homes.
Going for Perfection
onal work ethic ment to clients edge, innovative marketing high-net-worth clients and e buyers Home Specialist
sellers
Kathleen O’Donnell
EXPERIENCE, INTEGRITY, FOCUS
O’Donnell You getKathleen one chance to make the right first impressionO’Donnell when marketing your home. Right Group Realty staging. Right price. A smashing open house Specializing in restored and vintage homes. 503.519.3400 and plenty of buzz to attract buyers. EXPE RIENCE, INTEGRITY, FOCUS odonnellgrouprealty.com No one in real estate cares more OR works harder to get it right the first time. You'll see.
PREP YOUR HOME
to sell fast
THE O’DONNELL GROUP
Kathleen O’Donnell Specializing in vintage and luxury homes. Principal Broker
Residential and Commercial Realty
CRS, ABR, ePRO,, Master Circle EXPERIENCE, INTEGRITY FOCUS
THE DONNELL 503.519.3400 GROUP odonnellgrouprealty.comSpecializing in restored and vintage homes. • • • •
Exceptional work ethic Commitment to clients Cutting-edge, innovative marketing Serving high-net-worth clients and and Commercial Realty first-time buyers • Luxury Home Specialist
.519.3400
THE O’DONNELL GROUP
lgrouprealty.com
As a trade ally of Energy Trust of Oregon, we can tell you about energy-efficient features and improvements for your home, and how to save up to 30% on energy costs with Energy Trust cash incentives.
Above: Get rid of that tree stand carpet ring with ice cubes!
Above: Boil oranges, lemons and cinnamon sticks in water before an open house Below: Paint grout to look new and bright
EXPERIENCE, INTEGRITY, FOCUS
Portland Monthly FIVE-STAR BROKER As a trade ally of Energy Trust of Oregon, we can tell you about energy-efficient features and improvements for your home, and how to save up to 30% on energy costs with Energy Trust cash incentives.
When BIGGER is actually BETTER
LET'S TALK RUBBISH
Portland Monthly FIVE-STAR BROKER
Residential and Commercial Realty
Prepping Your Home for Sale? 503.519.3400
As a trade ally of Energy Trust of Oregon, we can tell you about energy-efficient features and improvements for your home, and how to save up to 30% on energy costs with Energy Trust cash incentives.
Curb Appeal Can Seal the Deal! odonnellgrouprealty.com
Portland Monthly FIVE-STAR BROKER
T
he sun is shining, the weather is warm, and summer is just around the corner… and FOR SALE signs are popping up all over the city!
Curb appeal can be an important factor in getting the best selling price for a home, because first impressions are lasting impressions. With a hot, competitive real estate market to match the hot Portland temps, there’s no time to waste in sprucing up your home and property for optimal curb appeal. Before you hang a FOR SALE sign, take a little time to make your outdoor spaces attractive and inviting for prospective buyers. Start by taking a slow walk around your house and property. As you stroll, make a list of things that look shabby or need to be removed or replaced. If you see something that makes a poor impression on you, you can be assured that prospective buyers will notice it too! Here are a few quick and simple improvements that go a long way toward improving curb appeal: • Power wash exterior surfaces – fences, patios, driveway, decks, siding - for a fresh, clean look. • Remove unnecessary clutter and debris from walkways, porches, and surrounding areas.
• Give the front door a fresh coat of paint for a more welcoming feel.
• Update hardware such as front door handle, mailbox, or outdoor light fixtures for a fresh, new look. • Clean roof and replace old gutters. Washing the front of gutters also gives a fresh, updated look. • Repair any broken siding or trim. Touch up paint as needed – and be sure colors match. Large or small, these simple outdoor improvements can make a big difference in the appearance of your homes exterior. Here’s to looking sweet from the street!
~ Betty Betty Benson Rubbish Works of Portland
If you need help getting rid of your Donate or Discard items, just let us know! Schedule your pickup at www.rubbishworks.com/portland or call 503-928-6894.
• Install outdoor lightening to accent and illuminate your outdoor spaces. • Plant some colorful containers with favorite plants and flowers to brighten the outdoor spaces, or add a fresh garden planting near the entry way.
“Our Business Is Picking Up!” www.rubbishworks.com/portland
ophisticated marketing might turn heads, but there’s a deeper reason people look and then keep looking at M Realty. They do everything in-house. Given the substantial increase in this local Portland company’s structure and operating costs, why would they seek this out?
thing we can do to help our agents,” says Garron Selliken, founder of M Realty. “I’m so proud of our team and how they’ve embraced this culture. It’s really satisfying to see them thrive on the momentum they get from our agents’ feedback and then take M to the next level.”
“Because it’s better,” laughs Jeff Brooks, M Realty’s Marketing Director. “It’s a challenge, for sure. On our end, we’re in a constant flux of creating departments, integrating them into our workflow, and managing their throughput for our agents. But with all the added internal problem-solving, we’re buying something priceless: complete control over our finished product. We’ve devoted ourselves to cultivating the best agent experience because we know that translates to the best possible customer service experience for their clients.”
“Plus, every time we add a department, we get to make new friends,” concludes Brooks. “New employees mean new perspectives, skill sets, expertise. Then those increased services attract more agents, who allow us to break fresh ground and add even more services to our entire population. I can’t imagine a better way to grow.”
Not satisfied to simply create one system and refine it into the biggest profit margin for the brokerage, M Realty keeps pushing its available services forward as they grow. This spirit of innovation is likely responsible for the robust rate in which they’ve expanded (having quadrupled their size in the last two years). “Once we master an aspect of our service, we’re already wired to find the next big
Be sure to visit M Realty’s website to see how they’re shifting what’s possible in real estate: www.mportlandhomes.com For sellers looking for more information about selling their home with M Realty’s TrueView marketing, contact Brian at 503.459.4474. For agents interested in learning more, contact Anne at 503.545.1478 or Kristin at 503.459.1624 or visit www.mrealtypdx.com. allthingsrealestatepdx.com | 3
for our real•tors
sometimes
WWW.WITHLOVEFROMPDX.COM
I Am Right!
TEAMS in a REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION
Custom Gift Boxes for Busy Professionals, Corporations, and Realtors.
THE MOST OVER-USED IN REAL ESTATE ••• (that could be killing your sales)
• Great • Beautiful • Sale • Property • Home • Short • Unit • Luxury
VS. LESSER USED ••• (used by agents selling 20% faster)
Closet Space
City Views
Soaking Tub
he instructor in a seminar I took several years ago said he divides people into 2 groups: The first group is Fire Prevention Officers, or those who work diligently to prevent fires from happening. The second group is Firefighters, or those who are always running around putting out fires. In addition to these two groups, one of my colleagues made the observation that our boss at the time, did not fall into either of these categories, because he is a Fire Starter, or one who starts fires. Most of us probably find ourselves in all 3 groups at one time or another, but we should all strive to operate as a Fire Prevention Officer the majority of the time. That is, one who organizes things in their life so that everything works together smoothly and there are very few fires to be put out. By the way, a really good Firefighter puts out fires while they are still small flickers of flame as opposed to raging forest fires. The further ahead of a problem we are the more likely we are to prevent it from becoming a really big fire. The best way in the real estate business to become a Fire Prevention Officer is to assemble people whom you trust to get the job done right the first time…a team. Wikipedia says a team is “a group of people or animals linked in a common purpose. Teams are especially appropriate for conducting tasks that are high in complexity and have many interdependent subtasks.” In my not so humble opinion, I do believe real estate transactions are “high in complexity” and there are “many interdependent subtasks.” In this age where many of a real estate agent’s transactions involve multiple offers and there is a severe shortage of inventory, the complexity of transactions is growing all the time. Many of us really old Realtors® can remember when the “Earnest Money Agreement” was one page long and far less complex.
fun client gift ideas from ATRE
Sunny
Open Kitchen
Elegant easyagentpro.com
4 | allthingsrealestatepdx.com
I remember a lender who spoke to us in a meeting several years ago about how to qualify buyers for FHA loans. At the time, buyers did not typically talk to a lender until after the transaction had been accepted by the seller, and we the Realtors® were expected to do the math and pre-qualify the buyer. The lender wrote the number 2214753451 on the white board as he began a rather complicated explanation of a rather convoluted process. He explained that if you just remembered the formula he had written down, the process would be much easier. I imagined that this formula must be the lending equivalent to A=πr2, or something like that. At the end of his talk, he added 2 dashes to the “formula” and it became 221-474-3451…his phone number. “You guys are Realtors® and shouldn’t have to being doing a lender’s work. Just call me to do an FHA workup for your buyer.” Even though this took place more than 30 years ago, I never forgot it. Why should I be the one to prequalify a buyer, or interpret a home inspection, or analyze preliminary title report? There are professionals who are experts in their fields, and if I can just refer people to those who know, rather than try to know everything myself, my clients will be better off. It has proven to be not only a strategy that has worked for me, but has become an industry standard…to a point. The complex, and interdependent tasks in a real estate transaction may include, a lender, title insurance and escrow, home warranty, home inspection, appraiser, a company’s closing department, repairmen, and more. A Realtor®/Firefighter just deals with each of these people as they randomly come up in a transaction. A Realtor®/Fire Prevention Officer hand picks these people ahead of time, and instead of a random group, they become a team working together, helping
each other successfully, and, with as little smoke as possible, to close a transaction. I am not talking about the “Gary Taylor Team” where I hire 3 buyer’s agents to do my work under my name, but, rather, creating a true team where together the team members create an environment that makes a complex real estate transaction go smoothly and efficiently. Most of us have seen a poster that says something along the lines of: TEAM… Together Each Achieves More.” It is this expected result that makes the proper use of a team so effective. By the way, the boss that we labeled a “Fire Starter” left the real estate business not too long after that seminar, under very undesirable circumstances…he was so busy starting fires everywhere else, a bonfire got started under his own nose. I am very proud that I wrote an entire article on teamwork and did not use an athletic team analogy even once…that shows I am really on the ball. As always, these are just my opinions. Sometimes I am right!
Gary Taylor, CRB, GRI, CDPE is a Principal Broker with Summa Real Estate Group. He is Past Chairman of the Regional Multiple Listing Service. He was awarded the PMAR Realtor of the Year for 2007, the Million Dollar Club’s “Managing Broker of the Year” for 2006, the Oregon CRB of the Year in 1996, and WCR Member of the Year in 2001...He was also a Notary Public in 1974. Gary Taylor GRI, CRB Principal Broker Summa Real Estate Group Licensed in the State of Oregon 971-506-9530 gary@garyptaylor.com
for our real•tors
Kim's PROPERTY TALK: Be Aware of Sales Agreement Revisions
W
hen I initially decided to make a career change and focus more of my time on selling residential real estate than the practice of law, I was a bit reluctant because I thought that I would miss the opportunity to learn something new each day. Boy, was I wrong! No two transactions are alike and each sale brings different circumstances, challenges and issues. I began my real estate career in 2003, and at that time, the statewide residential sale agreement was seven pages long. That same contract is now 11 pages in length. Disputes arise and laws change which necessitate revisions to the sales agreement and related addendums each year. Most real estate brokers and their brokerages stay current on the form changes and are cognizant of the reasons for the modifications, but whether out of ignorance or complacency not all brokers are aware of specific terminology in the sales agreement. For many years, the residential sales agreement provided a buyer with three choices with regard to his/her exercise of the inspection contingency – check the box, use the inspection contingency addendum, or waive the inspection. If the buyer checked the box for the inspection provision contained in the sales agreement, the buyer had great latitude to perform the inspections of his/her choosing, but the buyer still had to specifically identify any desired inspections which may include the testing or removal of any portion of the property. The latter clause of the inspection contingency was probably a source of many disputes as there was an increased frequency of buyers opting to test for mold, conduct sewer scopes and measure radon levels. In 2014, the inspection contingency in paragraph 15.2 was amended to read: “At buyer’s expense, buyer may have the property and all elements and systems thereof inspected by one or more professionals of buyer’s choice. Provided, however, buyer must specifically identify in this agreement any desired inspections which may include the testing or removal of any portion of the property including radon and mold”
And shortly before the end of 2014, a blank line below the paragraph preceded by: Identify Additional Inspections was added so that buyers could specifically identify in that section of the sales agreement which additions inspections he/she intended to perform. It seems straightforward to include a radon test on that line if a buyer wishes to complete them, but to my surprise, not all brokers are aware of the forms changes from 2014. When I received an offer last month on one of my listings, the box was checked next to the inspection contingency provision contained in the residential sales agreement but the line below was left blank, so I specifically mentioned the fact to the seller that the buyer did not intend to perform a radon test. I was surprised that the buyer had chosen not to perform a radon test, but it was good news for the seller because it would be one less contingency that would have to be met for the sale to conclude. To my surprise, the buyer’s repair addendum did include a request for the seller to perform radon mitigation. In response, the seller declined to complete the requested task and stated that the radon mitigation repair would not be completed because the radon test was outside the scope of the inspection contingency and the proposed repair was not part of the inspection contingency. When the buyer’s broker received the seller’s counter-proposal for repairs, she was not pleased. She asked why I allowed her to perform the radon test when she notified me of the inspection schedule. A common mistake by brokers is to act as if brokers can speak for his/her clients. Brokers provide guidance, but buyers and sellers are the parties that make the decisions. I am the listing broker representing the seller so I am not a party to the contract. I cannot give consent on behalf of my client for a buyer to perform a radon test. Remember the statute of frauds? All terms of the agreement must be in writing. It is not enough for a selling broker to call the listing broker to notify him or her of an inspection. The buyer and seller
P R O T E C T YO U R S E L F — P R O T E C T YO U R CLI E N T S LEAKING TANKS & GROUND WATER
round water is fairly deep in most of the Portland metro-area and therefore is not usually impacted when heating oil tanks (HOTs) leak. However, some areas do have shallow ground water including: Gresham, the west side of Mt. Tabor, the west hills, Tigard, Aloha and Hillsboro. Leaking HOTs in these areas are much more likely to have contaminated ground water. Petroleum contaminated ground water can enter drinking water and irrigation wells, leach into a stream or waterbody (such as a stream) and transport carcinogen vapors, such as benzene, into buildings. Therefore, the Oregon DEQ has stringent requirements to assess risks to people and the environment when petro-
leum contaminates ground water. As a result, the costs for cleanup and time necessary to perform the work both increase, much to the chagrin of real estate agents and the buyers and sellers of property. For properties with wells, the well water must also be tested. If a well has been impacted or is at risk of being impacted, DEQ may require decommissioning of the well. This may also mean a new well will have to be drilled. This can also add to the costs and time required to complete a cleanup. Protect your client and protect yourself: Get soil samples ordered as soon as possible in areas with shallow ground water and if the tank has leaked and ensure that all wells on the property are sampled.
PROTECT YOURSELF – PROTECT YOUR CLIENTS is a copyrighted monthly column to help real estate professionals keep their clients and themselves out of hot water. Email me your questions. If I use it in a future column you will receive a $100 discount on EcoTech’s radon or oil tank services. Don is available to provide a CE class to your office. Don Francis, General Manager, EcoTech 7302 N. Richmond Av. Portland, OR 97203 (503) 493-1040 • (503) 493-1042 (Fax) • dfrancis@ecotechllc.com Contractors Licenses: Oregon #155915, WA ECOTEL*963LJ DEQ Heating Oil Tank Service Provider #23250 NEHA Radon Measurement & Mitigation Provider EcoTech Offers a Full Line of Environmental Services Including: • Heating Oil Tank and UST Searches, Soil Sampling, Decommissioning, Tank Installation and DEQ Cleanups • Certified Professional Radon Testing and Mitigation. • Residential Earthquake Attachments
ADVERTISE IN ALL THINGS REAL ESTATE? • If you're a Realtor®, because buyers and sellers read us • If you are a lender, because buyers and realtors read us • If you're a contractor, because buyers, sellers, Realtors® read us See where we're going with this!?
www.allthingsrealestatepdx.com
*Continued on page 7 allthingsrealestatepdx.com | 5
who you gonna call? YOUR REAL ESTATE DIRECTORY Attorney
Attorney
Home Inspections
Oil Tank Decommissioning
Radon, Sewer, Tank!
Realtors®
Principal Broker/Attorney Kim Carty, JD P: (503) 430-1418 E: kim@kimcarty.com W: kimcarty.com Protecting You and Your Real Estate Interests.
Nicole Comer Home Gnome Inspections, LLC P: (503) 913-1281 E: nicole@home-gnome.com W: home-gnome.com
Don Francis, General Manager Ecotech P: (503) 493-1040 E: dfrancis@ecotech.com
Environmental Works P: (503) 719-6715 E: info@eworksnw.com W: eworksnw.com
Elaine Yoder (W)here, Inc P: (503) 956-0222 E: elaine.yoder@where-inc.com W: portlandurbanhomes.com
Cleanup & Recycling
Radon Testing & Mitigation Painting
Betty Benson Rubbish Works of Portland P: (503) 928-6894 E: portland@rubbishworks.com W: rubbishworks.com/portland
Now offering radon testing! Carrie Stevens PDX Home Inspections P: (503) 504-7114 E: pdxhomeinspections@gmail. com
Kira and Steve Parisi Transformations Painting, LLC P: (503) 348-3666 (Steve) (503) 680-6140 (Kira) E: ParisiTeam@hotmail.com W: PaintMyHouse-estimates.com CCB #197708
Our Business is Picking Up!
Computer Services
Zoe Morrison Zoe Personal Assistant P: (503) 719-5444 E: zoe@zoeva.biz W: zoepersonalassistant.com
Sean Thompson OCHI 1623 CCB 200057
Thompson Home Inspection, LLC P: (503) 833-2799 E: seanthompsonllc@gmail.com W: thompsonhomeinspection.com
One on One Computer Tutor Home or Small Business One Hour Sessions
THOMPSON
Meticulous Plumbing Home Services LLC P: (503) 208-2812 E: service@meticulousplumbing. com W: meticulousplumbing.com
Lender Micah Dyson, Mortgage Advisor
Drew Anderson Pro Tech Power Corp P: (503) 780-6207 E: drew@protechpdx.com
MLO 1294930 Licensed in OR & WA
Alpine Mortgage Planning NMLS 81395
P: (503) 933-6476 E: mdyson@alpinemc.com W: alpinemc.com/micahdyson
General Contractor
Steph Noble Mortgage Consultant NMLS-129002
Guild Mortgage Company P: (503) 528-9800 E: steph@stephnoble.com W: stephnoble.com 825 NE Multnomah, Suite 950 Portland, Oregon 97211
Since 2004: Renew, Restore, Rejuvenate. CCB#160781. Licensed. Bonded. Insured. Enrolled Contractor FIR Building Program
Portland's Painless Professional Plumber.
Print & Design Cory Burden Cedar House Media P: (503) 641-3320 E: sales@cedarhousemedia.com W: cedarhousemedia.com
Your Local Printing and Graphic Design Company.
Property Management Chris Guinn and Mark Borgeson Dwell Realty P: (503) 208-3797 E: dwell@dwellrealtypdx.com W: dwellrealtypdx.com
Historic Restoration
A drian Roman
Moving
Two Men and a Truck P: (503) 894-9923 E: info0367@twomen.com W: twomencentralportland.com
B uil d ing & R e s to r a t io n LLC
Large enough to be professional and comprehensive; small enough to be personal.
6 | allthingsrealestatepdx.com
Radon is not a secondary endeavor for us... it's all we do. Addressing residential and commercial needs. Certified, experienced, recommended.
My approach to real estate is it's all about YOU!
Roofing
Realtors®
Carlos Hernandez CCB # 204311
Celia J. Lyon, Principal Broker Meadows Group Inc. P: (503) 260-6231 E: celiajlyon333@gmail.com W: PortlandHomesGuide.net
Roof Rx
P: (503) 285-4405 E: chernandez@roofrx.com W: roofrx.com
Locally owned and operated full service moving company with a 96% referral rate. We are the Movers Who Care!
For Your Buying, Selling, and Property Management Needs. Marsha Zimmerman Oregon Licensee 200308196 M.L.K. Property Mgmt. & Support Services, LLC. P: (503) 760-0088 E: marshaz@mlk-pm.com W: www.mlk-pm.com
Staging
Buying or selling your home is an important choice, let Celia guide you through the process! Randy Rutherford Broker - Consultant (503) 939-6682 randy@hasson.com randyrutherford.hasson.com
Licensed Broker in Oregon
NMLS-3274, OR-ML-176
Adrian Roman, President Building & Restoration LLC P: (503) 593-8820 W: restorationroman.com
Joanne Yousif Residential Realty NW P: (503) 756-9097 E: joanne@joanneyousif.com W: joanneyousif.com
HOME INSPECTION, LLC
Electrician
Matt Greer, CEO Windward Construction, LLC C: (503) 869-6333 E: windwardconstruction@gmail. com W: windwardconstruction.us
Professional, Clean, Detailed. Plumbing
Where Experience Matters
Cascade Radon, Inc. P: (503) 421-4813 E: office@cascaderadon.com W: cascaderadon.com
Staci Byers Ready to Sell PDX P: (503)389-3293 W: readytosellpdx.com
Sewer Inspections Joe Slom 48 Hour Inspection P: (503) 890-9566 E: joe.48hourinspection@gmail.com W: 48hourinspection.webs.com
Daniela Sardo, Real Estate Broker Dwell Realty P: (503) 310-9127 E: daniela@dwellrealtypdx.com W: dwellrealtypdx.com
Unbiased Inspections & Recommendations.
Heidi Torkko OR Real Estate Broker Torkko Group Properties @ M Realty, LLC P: (503) 351-9716 E: heidi@SOLDit.com W: tgSOLDit.com
Skylights Lora Creswick Light Benders – Solatube P: (503) 352-0249 E: lightbenders@lightbenders.biz W: lightbenders.biz CCB#30873
The Miracle Skylight & Solar Star Attic Fans Let the Sun SAVE you MONEY!
Technology
What Would a SOLD Sign Do For YOU?
Pre Approve Me App P: (503) 451-5573 E: support@preapprovemeapp.com W: preapprovemeapp.com
Technology on a mission to make the home buying process fun, convenient and easy.
Excellence in Integrity and Standards.
coast *Be Aware of Sales Agreement Revisions, Continued from page 5 must agree to the scope of inspections in writing so that the buyer has the required consent from the seller to perform such tests that are considered invasive. And the seller must be aware of and agree to all of the buyer’s contingencies. In this instance, the buyer and seller did not reach a mutual agreement to the scope of repairs. But what if the seller had agreed to complete every repair except for the radon mitigation? Since the buyer failed to get permission from the seller to perform the radon test and because the results of such test were not a contingency in the agreement, the buyer may have terminated, but he may not have received a refund of his earnest money. I would argue that the radon mitigation was outside the scope of the contract. If a buyer was at risk of losing $5,000 earnest money for a $1500 repair, don’t you think the buyer would be looking at his broker and asking why the radon test was not written into the contract when the language of the contract requires it?
The world of residential real estate is constantly changing and brokers, in order to avoid formal complaints and reprimands, need to be aware of contract modifications and read the residential sales agreement. Buyers and sellers make the decisions, but the brokers are the advisors and you cannot provide that needed guidance if you are unaware of contract terms. Read the contract carefully, and don’t just assume you are working with the same residential sales agreement from years past so you can protect your clients and yourselves. Kim Carty is a Principal Real Estate Broker with John L Scott Real Estate in Beaverton, OR. Ms. Carty represents buyers and sellers in the Tri-County area with a special emphasis on distressed properties and short sales. She is a very knowledgeable Realtor® who is highly recommended by her clients, having been recognized with the Five Star Professional Award for the past five years. In addition to having a real estate license, Ms. Carty has been a licensed attorney since 1999.
Cudi’s CORNER
A GEARH
RT
Melissa Eddy, Windermere Stellar 503-440-3258 • MelissaEddy@Windermere.com www.BeachHomeRealtor.com
461 S Ocean Ave $1,395,000
3 bdrm • 3 bth • 2275 sq ft ML# 15478728
161 Cottage Ave $495,000
4 bdrm • 2 bth • 1639 sq ft ML# 15202509
1400 N Ocean Ave $599,000
1.94 acres ML# 15674731
4785 High Ridge Rd, $729,000
3 bdrm • 3.1 bth • 3481 sq ft ML# 13372176
Facts About Dogs (that will blow your mind)
Wilson
Wilson need ed a cock tail and a nap after th is weeks sh owings! Wilson belo ngs to Hale y Overton at Urban Nest Realty.
• Dogs are capable of understanding up to 250 words and gestures, can count up to five and can perform simple mathematical calculations. The average dog is as intelligent as a two-year-old child.
• Some stray Russian dogs have figured out how to use the subway system in order to travel to more populated areas in search of food.
Cudi
Pacific Land Company
Debra Bowe 503-440-7474
1215 15th St, Astoria $425,000
690 17th St, Astoria
5 bdrm • 2 bth • 3191 sq ft MLS #15-204
4 bdrm • 2 bth • 2,412 sq ft MLS #15-226
$389,000
• Dogs don’t enjoy being hugged as much as humans and other primates. Canines interpret putting a limb over another animal as a sign of dominance.
• The Beatles song “A day in the Life” has an extra high-pitched whistle, audible only to dogs. It was recorded by Paul McCartney for the enjoyment of his Shetland sheepdog. • In ancient China, an emperor’s last line of defense was a small Pekingese dog literally hidden up his sleeve.
43804 Sylvandale Ln, Astoria $899,000
Surf Pines Landing Dr, Warrenton • $379,000
• When Lord Byron was informed that his dog was not allowed to come with him to Cambridge Trinity College, he retaliated by bringing a bear instead. • The wetness of a dog’s nose is essential for determining what direction a smell is coming from. • Dogs use the top of their tongue to drink. Water adheres to the top of the tongue and is pulled up in a column.
5 bdrm • 4 bth • 5,566 sq ft MLS #14-1142
4 bdrm • 2 bth • 2213 sq ft MLS #14-456
barkpost.com
allthingsrealestatepdx.com | 7
green certified Address
Bdr Bth
upcycled planters
Price
••• turn trash into treasure
HOUSES • AS OF 2/14 7418 N WILLIAMS AVE 7422 N WILLIAMS AVE 4816 NE 12TH AVE 7810 SE HAROLD 7790 SE HAROLD 2506 SE 58TH AVE 2514 SE 58TH AVE 2510 SE 58TH AVE 2826 SE 49TH AVE 14664 CATALPA WAY 14657 CATALPA WAY 13885 CLACKAMAS RIVER 1814 HIGHLANDS LOOP 10945 SW 64TH AVE 025 SW IOWA ST 9960 SW TERWILLIGER BLVD 5923 SW HOOD AVE 2059 NW RAMSEY DR 3615 SW HILLSIDE DR 2808 SW PERIANDER ST 5833 NW 170TH AVE 9507 NW LEAHY RD 10810 NW CLAIRE CT 19643 SW SONIA LN 8005 SW SONIA LN 8017 SW SONIA LN 8010 SW 195TH AVE 8889 SW AMICUS TER 12023 SW LAUSANNE ST 29037 SW VILLEBOIS DR 29045 SW VILLEBOIS DR 17321 SW 136TH AVE 29029 SW VILLEBOIS DR 29049 SW VILLEBOIS DR 29041 SW VILLEBOIS DR 29033 SW VILLEBOIS DR 12053 SW AUTUMNVIEW ST 15212 SW HARVEYS VIEW
3 3 4 3 3 3 3 3 4 3 4 3 4 3 4 4 3 4 5 3 4 4 4 3 4 4 4 5 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 5
2.1 $399,900 2.1 $399,900 2.1 $679,900 2.1 $410,000 2.1 $410,000 2.1 $574,900 2.1 $574,900 2.1 $574,900 2.1 $674,900 2.1 $324,950 2.1 $354,950 3.1 $1,185,000 4.1 $2,295,000 2.1 $450,000 2.1 $619,900 2.1 $699,900 3.1 $725,000 2.1 $829,900 4 $975,000 3.1 $979,900 2.1 $544,900 2.1 $574,999 3.1 $699,950 2.1 $434,970 2.1 $464,677 2.1 $469,620 2.1 $524,978 4 $835,900 2.1 $384,900 3.1 $389,900 3.1 $389,900 2.1 $389,900 3.1 $389,900 3.1 $395,900 3.1 $397,900 3.1 $399,900 2.1 $464,897 2.1 $499,978
houses with gazebos Address
Bdr Bth
28746 SE ALLEN RD 3 1122 SE 112TH AVE 2 2130 NW 16TH ST 3 812 PIERCE ST 3 6704 NE EMERSON ST 3 10525 NE MORRIS ST 3 4798 SE CONCORD RD 5 13450 SE RUSCLIFFE LN 4 816 NE CHURCH ST 4 6281 BRIDGEVIEW DR 3 2816 N WATTS ST 3 254 N LOTUS ISLE DR 3 9914 NE FAILING ST 3 18250 UPPER MIDHILL DR 3 24021 S SKYLANE DR 2 24021 S SKYLANE DR 2 5773 S SCHNEIDER RD 4 7049 SW WINDEMERE LOOP 3 219 NE CURTIS DR 4 15840 SE TONG RD 3 7907 SW RUBY TER 4 2910 SW 66TH AVE 3 8110 SW 6TH AVE 4 3737 N WILLAMETTE BLVD 5 23838 S BARLOW RD 5 30930 SW RIVER LANE RD 5 20879 S SPRINGWATER RD 5 6150 SW ARROW WOOD LN 5 10830 SE LAMPERT CT 4 18262 BRYANT RD 4 16300 S TIMBER RIDGE DR 4 9225 NW MCKENNA DR 5 4360 SW LAURELWOOD AVE 4 2350 SW MAYFIELD AVE 4 11806 SE EASTBOURNE LN 6 17327 KELOK RD 3 101 N LOTUS BEACH DR 3 18225 RIVER EDGE CT 5 1625 NE MARINE DR 4 20254 S DRIFTWOOD DR 5
1 1 3 2 2 2 3 3.1 1.1 2.1 2 3 3 2.1 3 3 2.1 2.1 4 2 2 2.1 4 2.2 4.1 3 4 3 4 3.1 3.2 5.1 3.1 3 6.1 3 3.1 4.3 4 4.2
Price $239,900 $239,000 $255,000 $269,900 $275,000 $294,900 $399,900 $419,900 $439,000 $442,500 $450,000 $450,000 $450,000 $495,000 $499,500 $499,500 $499,950 $539,000 $589,000 $599,950 $649,900 $659,000 $749,900 $799,000 $799,000 $849,000 $849,999 $869,000 $870,000 $949,900 $994,888 $999,900 $1,195,000 $1,195,000 $1,250,000 $1,250,000 $1,385,000 $1,390,000 $1,495,000 $1,525,000
8 | allthingsrealestatepdx.com
GET IT ALL WITH ONE CALL: Sewer Scope $125 Tank Locate $100 Radon Test $150 All Three $340 Environmental Works appreciates your business and continued referrals! We're working hard to provide you with fast, affordable, and professional service. Environmental Works: 503.719.6715
www.eworksnw.com
coupons.com/thegoodstuff
the care & feeding of your home
Ways to keep your cool This Summer
Keep your blinds closed. This is particularly important on the south and west facing sides of your home. As simple as it may seem, up to 30 percent of unwanted heat comes from your windows, and using shades and curtains can save you up to 7 percent on your bills and lower indoor temperatures by up to 20 degrees. HOME MAINTENANCE
TIPS
• AIR CONDITIONING TUNE UP: You can keep your AC bill running smoothly by changing out your air filters often. Experts advise changing them once a month when using your unit on a daily basis.
• ROOF CHECK: Your roof should be inspected annually to ensure that you don't have any problems. Whether you have just ended your rainy season or are about to begin it, checking your roof regularly will assist in finding a small problem before it becomes a large, leaky one. Contingent on the type of roof, you may also want to clean your roof to avoid any permanent water damage.
• CLEAN GUTTERS: Cleaning gutters regularly will help prevent clogging and unnecessary leaks. It is recommended that gutters are cleaned twice a year: once at late fall/early winter, after all of the leaves have fallen and prior to the first snowfall, and once at late spring/early summer after flowers, seeds and blossoms are done blowing off. Brought to you by
Peter Clarke, Broker Licensed in Oregon Living Room Realty (503) 333-5809 livingroomre.com/agents/peter-clarke
Set your ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise. In case you weren’t aware of it, there is a switch on the fan to reverse it seasonally. In the winter, air flow should be up toward the ceiling. During this time of year, having it blow down creates a breeze which will make you feel cooler. Set your furnace fan from “Auto” to “On.” This will keep air continually circulating through the house. The only exception to this is when the blower assembly and ductwork are in the attic, where they pick up lots of heat.
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Temperatures tend to drop during the night. Make the most of these refreshing hours by cracking the windows before you go to bed. If you can, open windows all around the house to create cross ventilation. Just be sure to close the windows and the blinds before things get too hot in the morning. Change your bed clothes. Flannel sheets and fleece blankets are great for insulation in the winter, but cotton is a smarter move this time of year because it “breathes” more and stays cooler. In fact, putting your sheets in the fridge just before jumping into bed will get you started off to a nice cool night’s sleep. Focus on keeping your body cool. From drinking iced drinks
to applying a cold cloth to your neck and wrists, doing the cooling from the inside out and outside in, really helps. Choosing cooler clothing – cotton, short sleeve shirts and short pants or loose fitting dresses - will allow any cool air to find bare skin.
Turn on bathroom fans to remove hot, steamy air and use your exhaust fan in the kitchen when cooking. If you ever needed motivation to make the switch from incandescent to LED lighting, this may be it. Incandescent
bulbs dissipate about 90 percent of their energy in the form of heat, so replacing them will not only lower your electric bill, it may make a difference in cooling your home, as well.
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do. Installing awnings and planting trees or vines in front of south and west facing windows will shield your home from the sun's rays, reduce the amount of heat your home absorbs, and make your investment pay back in both comfort and energy savings. Enjoy the summer, even on those few hot days we’ll have. Remember, all too soon, we’ll be under a cloudy sky, feeling the drizzle of rain, and wishing for the sun to return.
Enjoy cooking and eating outdoors. It's obvious, but I’ll say it anyway - using your oven or stove in the summer will make your house hotter. If it’s already too hot in your home, the last thing you want to do is turn on a 350 degree oven. What better excuse do you need for inviting friends and family over for a cook-out?
Handyman Bob offers home improvement advice on his radio show, Around The House, every Saturday from noon to 2:00 on FM News 101 KXL.
Whether you have A/C or not, you can make a couple of investments in your home that will keep it cooler for seasons to come. Insulated window films, for example,
And, during the week, he is a relationship marketing consultant. For more information, visit his website, www. SendOutCards.com/HandymanBob.
are a smart purchase because they block the sun’s rays like window blinds
Do it yourself house numbers made from paint sticks
t’s starting to get hot out and it's only going to get warmer over the next couple of months. And, while it's tempting to simply turn down the thermostat on the air conditioning, there are some easy things you can do that will also help you keep your cool.
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Four time recipient of the Angie's List Super Service award!
allthingsrealestatepdx.com | 9
northeast Address
Bdr Bth
Price
HOUSES • AS OF 6/9 925 NE 162ND AVE 4614 NE GOING ST 19997 NE GLISAN ST 1940 NE 129TH PL 9825 NE GLISAN ST 11441 NE SISKIYOU ST 7616 NE ALBERTA ST 8849 NE WASCO ST 10824 NE SCHUYLER ST 9025 NE WYGANT ST 609 NE 198TH AVE 1333 NE 188TH PL 4253 NE SIMPSON CT 3400 NE 87TH PL 340 NE 80TH AVE 2319 NE 92ND AVE 809 NE 194TH AVE 320 NE 114TH AVE 11349 NE GLISAN ST 8644 NE DYER ST 2311 NE 154TH PL 8901 NE SACRAMENTO ST 3742 NE 150TH AVE 14313 NE FREMONT ST 1310 NE 186TH DR 8024 NE OREGON ST 4823 NE 13TH AVE 4214 NE 81ST AVE 4206 NE 81ST AVE 4114 NE 109TH AVE 5317 NE EMERSON ST 2211 NE HOLMAN ST 16329 NE FARGO ST 7700 NE ALAMEDA ST 6425 NE 35TH PL 4914 NE 7TH AVE 12 NE 70TH AVE 3000 NE 33RD AVE 5832 NE 32ND AVE 3121 NE 12TH AVE
4 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 4 3 2 2 2 3 3 4 3 3 2 4 3 4 3 3 2 3 3 4 3 3 4 4 3 3 2 3 4 3
1 1 2.1 1 1 1 1 2.1 1 2 2 3 1 1 1 2.1 2 2 1 2.1 2 2.1 2.1 3 2.2 2 2 2.1 2.1 2.1 2 1 2.1 2 1.1 1.1 2 1 2 3
$169,000 $189,900 $197,500 $206,700 $219,000 $225,000 $225,000 $229,950 $229,950 $239,000 $239,000 $244,000 $249,000 $250,000 $259,000 $267,900 $269,000 $269,900 $274,900 $280,000 $287,950 $299,900 $299,900 $308,000 $319,900 $329,500 $339,900 $339,900 $344,900 $349,900 $350,000 $359,000 $359,000 $379,000 $385,000 $385,000 $389,000 $399,000 $400,000 $995,000
northwest Address
Bdr Bth
Price
HOUSES • AS OF 6/7 8354 NW SKYLINE BLVD 2 3187 NW SKYLINE BLVD #5 3 11347 NW KIMBLE CT 5 9813 NW KAYLEE ST 3 9600 NW FLEISCHNER ST 4 2616 NW HOLLOWAY DR 4 9311 NW HOPEDALE CT 4 2331 NW ASPEN AVE 3 2858 NW CORNELL RD 4 7138 NW SUMMITVIEW DR 5 3822 NW DEVOTO LN 4 8404 NW REED DR 5 2452 NW THURMAN ST 5 316 NW HILLTOP DR 4 5391 NW 180TH PL 3 18815 NW NELSCOTT ST 3 5193 NW 171ST PL 4 17328 NW MILLBROOK ST 4 17775 NW ELK RUN DR 3 13150 NW SUE ST 5 6525 NW MCGREGOR TER 3 5682 NW 178TH AVE 3 5880 NW SIMNASHO DR 3 1615 NW MURRAY RD 4 4470 NW KAHNEETA DR 4 1700 NW SALTZMAN RD 4 6512 NW 165TH AVE 4 11554 NW PERMIAN DR 4 5810 NW LARK MEADOW 4 17101 NW MADRONE ST 4 9246 NW HARVEST HILL DR 3 19180 NW NORTHSHORE CT 3 236 NW SUNDOWN WAY 4 5833 NW 170TH AVE 4 10098 NW PRISCILLA CT 3 16873 NW LYNCH LN 4 16961 NW LYNCH LN 4 15482 NW ANDALUSIAN 4
1 $349,900 2 $545,000 2.1 $549,950 2.1 $599,000 2.1 $625,000 2.1 $715,000 2.1 $769,000 3 $859,000 2 $895,000 3.1 $900,000 3 $950,000 4.1 $979,950 3 $1,200,000 4 $1,950,000 2.1 $305,500 2 $335,000 2 $342,000 3 $359,000 2 $359,950 2.5 $360,000 2.1 $365,000 2.1 $379,000 2 $379,900 3 $389,900 2.1 $398,000 3 $427,500 2.1 $445,000 2.1 $449,900 2.1 $455,000 2.1 $487,995 3 $499,000 2.1 $525,000 3 $542,500 2.1 $544,900 2.1 $549,000 3 $554,900 3 $569,900 3 $575,000
10 | allthingsrealestatepdx.com
PORTLAND
Lavender Daze Festival July 18-19 If you miss the Lavender Weeknd, be sure to visit this free festival at Hood River Farms.
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Sour Beer Festival July 14-20 Check out 50 sour, wild, and funky beers during Puckerfest at Belmont Station. Cash only.
area
St. Paul Rodeo July 1-4 (begins 4 p.m. June 30) Bucking broncos, roping and steer wrestling, bull riding, a barbecue, carnival, art show, and nightly fireworks. Campy Musical Jaws July 2-3 (begins June 25) Based on the famous shark movie, J.A.W.Z. The Musical in 3D is a comedy with campy costumes, hilarious storytelling, projected film, and sing-along at Alberta Rose Theatre. Hawaiian Festival July 23-25 Workshops, hula dancing, a 5K run/ walk, and free Hawaiian festival in Esther Short Park. Events vary daily.
Oregon Brewers Festival July 22-26 Enjoy 80 different craft beers, a root beer garden, pub food, and live music, plus learn all about home brewing at Tom McCall Waterfront Park on the Willamette River. Weird Theater July 2-12 5 innovative and irreverent shows on 5 weekends at CoHo Theater. Lavender Weekend July 11-12 Enjoy the beauty and aroma of lavender fields and attend special events at farms and nurseries around Oregon state.
Dog Show July 17-19 Stumptown Cluster—Portland Kennel Club Dog Show has specialty breeds on Friday and all breeds on Saturday and Sunday at Portland Expo Center. Free. Movies on a Rooftop July 17-August 27 Top Down: Rooftop Cinema is films on a rooftop Thursdays at the Hotel deLuxe, and it includes local bands, cocktails, beer, and barbecue. Cash only.
Brought to you by RIVELO 401 SE Caruthers St, Ste 103, Portland • 971-266-3551
RIVELO GRAND OPENING: SATURDAY, JUNE 20 at 2PM Rivendell Bicycle Works dealer • Made in USA clothing + bags Outdoor gear • Coffee making equipment • Records Special Guest: Rivendell Founder Grant Petersen • Bonus: Sausages!
RAVAN around
town:
Journal Your Way to Your New Home
urchasing a home can be a fun yet frightening experience. From choosing the perfect real estate agent to qualifying for a mortgage, homebuying comes with it’s ups and downs. The process can be lengthy and require abundant organization but not to worry homebuyer journals are here to your rescue! Creators, Tracey Hicks and Gretchen Bayless designed Homebuyer Journals as a tool to help keep homebuyers organized and as a tool for realtors to market themselves. The journals conveniently include a glossary of real estate lingo, pages designed to keep track of listings, templates for contact information and best of all a customized cover.
Covers can be customized to be as unique as you are! Anything from company logos to city skylines can be incorporated on the cover as well as names, customizing options are endless. Carrie L from Rose City Mortgage states: “Everyone needs one!! One stop for all your comments, details and home information. Helps you organize your thoughts once you have seen all the open houses. Such a great resource and not to mention the cute custom covers.”
A recent homebuyer states: “Our Realtor gave us a Homebuyer Journal when we were starting our house hunt. What a life saver! We kept the journal in our car and whenever we drove around looking at houses we would have it right there to write info down. We would then give that info to our Realtor and she could help us narrow down which houses we should actually go tour. It saved all us all time and was kind of fun writing it all down. It definitely helped keep us organized. The journal is super cute too! What a great tool to give to home buyers.”
The key to enjoying the homebuying process is to stay organized. Purchasing a home is one of the biggest investments you will make in your life. Although the process often takes ample patience and dedication it leads to lifelong happiness. Before you purchase your next home be sure to have your journal in hand! Homebuyer Journals can be purchased and customized at homebuyerjournals. com. Ravan Dosange All Things Real Estate
buyers Sellw
reland ood/Mo
Bungalo
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• Sweet home, 2 bedrooms with French doors to garden and deck! • Hardwood floors, fireplace, corner windows, eating area in kitchen, and covered front porch!
Which is Better: BI-WEEKLY or
BI-MONTHLY MORTGAGE PAYMENTS? ment is automatic. This may be ideal if you do not think you would stick with paying more per month on your own. However, if you want more control over your monthly payment amount and when you make the extra payment, it may be best to choose a monthly mortgage payment.
• Lush landscaping with raspberries, grapes, and patio with brick fireplace.
COME FALL IN LOVE!
• Garage and basement.
$350-375,000 • Hits RMLS June 15th!
Cell 503-260-6231 | celiajlyon333@gmail.com | Licensed in the State of Oregon
{ PortlandHomesGuide.net }
Let's Take a Look:
W
hen you apply for a new mortgage, your lender may ask if you want to set up monthly payments or bi-weekly payments. At one time, monthly payments were common, but bi-weekly payments are increasing in popularity. This is because they break a large expense up into two smaller and seemingly more manageable payments. In addition, you can also make what equates to a full extra payment on the mortgage each year with a bi-weekly payment structure. Before you decide which is best for you, consider a few factors.
Hashtag
#allthingsrealestate YOUR INSTAGRAMS!
@currentdesigned The #rearyard boasts two new #outsidedecks to enjoy the lush and peaceful surroundings. #southpasadenarealestate #allthingsrealestate
@gilliessells The good news keeps coming for Nick, Julia, and Cora. Congratulations on your beautiful new home. #allthingsrealestate #portlandrealtor
@homebuyerjournals It's the perfect gift when buyers start the big home search! #homebuyerjournals #allthingsrealestate
@laurengoche Handing keys over to this little cutie today!!! #allthingsrealestate #realestate #realtor
Your Personal Budget Many people may believe that if they get paid every two weeks, a bi-weekly mortgage payment is a better option than a monthly mortgage payment. This is not always the case. You should consider other sources of income and how much your payment is in relation to your paychecks. In addition, consider which part of the month your other regular bills are due. This is critical to establishing the best payment plan for you. Control Over the Payments You can still enjoy the benefit of making an extra payment per year with a monthly mortgage payment schedule. For example, you would simply need to pay $100 per month more each payment to realize the same results. When you establish a bi-weekly payment plan, this extra pay-
The Financial Obligation A final factor to consider is the financial obligation. When you set up bi-weekly payments, your total amount paid per month will be higher. This means that your total financial obligation will be higher than if you had a monthly payment plan. This financial obligation may impact your ability to qualify for other loans or to achieve other goals. If you want to pay your mortgage off early, you can choose to make an extra small payment with each monthly payment or set up a bi-weekly payment plan. While each will give you the same overall result over the course of the long term, one option may be preferred for your financial situation. Consider the pros and cons of each option carefully to make a better decision for your financial circumstances.
Steph Noble, NMLS#129002 503.528.9800 steph@stephnoble.com stephnoble.com 825 NE Multnomah St Suite 950, Portland, OR 97232 Company NMLS #3274 OR-ML 176. Guild Mortgage Company is an Equal Housing Lender. Please consult a tax advisor for more information. Guild Mortgage Company is not affiliated with All Things Real Estate.
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Must-Have Apps & Online Tools for Managing & Saving Money
Whether you recently moved, got a new job, or are just tired of arguing with your spouse about money, it's clear that you need to find a better way to track finances and make better decisions about household expenses. Check out these apps and online tools that are sure to make your financial life a little easier:
Mint Mint.com is owned by Intuit which is probably why this app has become a budgeting favorite. Enter in your banking information and Mint automatically connects to your accounts and lets you know if you are hitting your budget or about to bust it. It’s better than simply logging straight into your bank account because Mint aggregates all your accounts including bills, credit cards and investments. It all does so much more, including: tracking your property values via Zillow, to compare with what you owe on your mortgage. Mint’s handy reminders tell you to obtain a current credit report on a regular basis; vital to watch out for identity theft or other credit mishaps. Available for iPhone, Android, and desktop. Farmstand Farmstand is an iPhone app that con-
nects you with locally grown food. You can find out the nearest farmer's markets and see activity of what others are buying – it’s like taking your love of Instagram to a new level. The app boasts it’s helping users “make is easy to eat local” which might not translate to direct household savings, but if you are eating fresh, healthier foods it might enable savings in your healthcare expenses in the long run. Plus, often local farm-to-table food is less expensive than commercially trucked veggies found in your supermarket. On Farmstand, you find markets in your area, share photos, post deals you’ve found, and help support your local community by telling everyone what’s great at your market. You can sort farmers’ markets by distance or next open time and even filter markets to show those accepting food and nutrition benefits such as SNAP, EBT and WIC. It’s only available for iPhone but there is a mobile web version you can download from their site. InsuranceQuotes It’s easy to get complacent and stay with the same insurance provider for years, but you may get much better rates by shopping around. InsuranceQuotes. com's average car insurance map is a fantastic resource for consumers to compare how much they're currently paying for car insurance versus how much others are paying (on average). InsuranceQuotes.
com offers extensive research and access to industry news plus you can freely shop insurance carriers across the industry. Get unbiased information as you shop for coverage options, make smart comparisons on the plans that best suit your needs, and get connected with providers through one go-to site. This site doesn’t have an app yet, so use it on the go with a mobile browser. Grocery Pal For many of us, the monthly grocery bill is one of the largest expenses. And using newspapers to clip coupons is so passé. Instead, use the Grocery Pal app to browse all the weekly savings at local supermarkets and chain stores. With the app you can add sale items to your shopping list, compare prices across multiple stores and redeem coupons. It even lets you create custom lists, and you can organize them aisle by aisle. Available on iPhone and Android.
suggests alternatives to you. Like Mint, you can track all your investments in one place and analyze them all together. MapQuest While Google Maps is all the rage, some of us are still big fans of MapQuest. And they happen to not only have a great navigation service but also the lesser-known MapQuest Gas Prices app that lets you choose favorite stations, select your fuel grade, then directs you to the cheapest gas station in your area. Download the MapQuest GPS app as well, so the gas app will automatically direct you to the station of your choice. The online version is just as user friendly. Use the top navigation icons to direct you to the cheapest gas, nearby lodging, restaurants and more.
Sigfig Once you have your household budget under control, you’ll want to start investing or investing more and Sigfig is just the app to help you manage those long-term investments. Available for Android, iPhone or as a website, this useful app connects you with more than 90 brokerages to track your 401(k), IRA, and stock market investments. You can also see charts breaking down your asset allocation and risk level. Sigfig also checks regularly for hidden fees, overcharges, and underperforming funds, and then
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