May 28, 2020
What does the reopening of most of Oregon’s counties mean for real estate? Probably not a whole lot. Real estate transactions have continued during this time because it’s possible to carry on the business and stay six feet apart, with many discussions happening over Zoom and documents being signed via digital signature. We may start … read more
March 24, 2020
Yes, real estate business is still being conducted in the State of Oregon, just with some modifications. The Governor’s Stay at Home order comes down to two important ideas: All work must be done from our homes whenever possible. If it’s not possible for us to get our work done from home, then we can … read more
February 3, 2020
In the era of do-it-yourself home renovations, many homeowners are knocking down ceilings and walls, and tearing out floor tiles and old pipes. But in their efforts to upgrade and beautify their older homes, they might unknowingly be contaminating the air they breathe with toxic asbestos fibers. Our Guide to Asbestos in the Home offers … read more
February 3, 2020
Oregon Ranking in U.S. for mesothelioma & asbestosis deaths: 19th Oregon Mesothelioma Deaths: 619 Oregon Asbestosis Deaths: 169 Oregon Total Asbestos Related Deaths: 788 Because of Oregon’s coastline, the state was an ideal location for many shipyards. When these shipyards peaked in production, the use of asbestos-containing products was extensive and many workers were exposed to the toxic material. An … read more
December 12, 2019
The following is taken from a study by George Ratiu, Senior Economist for realtor.com® This was a national report, though, so we may see slightly different conditions in Oregon and Washington. The Quick Takeaway Home price growth will flatten, with a forecasted increase of just 0.8 percent. Inventory will remain constrained, especially at the entry-level price segment. Single-family housing … read more
November 1, 2019
One of the most important subjects a real estate agent can advise their sellers on is how to price their home accurately for the market as it is, not as we might wish it to be. No matter how beautiful or well-maintained a home is, or how many upgrades it has, if it’s not properly … read more
October 1, 2019
Autumn is a great time in general to be in the market for a house, but October may be the best month of all! You’ll have less competition and sellers who may be eager to get their home sold before the holiday months hit. Read on for details. It’s the best month to get a … read more
August 9, 2019
Governor Kate Brown has signed into law several housing bills designed to deal with the housing crisis in Oregon, including one that would eliminate single-family zoning in certain cities. HB2001 requires cities with populations greater than 10,000 to “allow duplexes in lands zoned for single-family dwellings.” It also requires cities with populations greater than 25,000 … read more
July 19, 2019
A law was recently passed that allows Oregonians to put money in a savings account toward the downpayment on their first home and not get taxed on the money! Below are the details. Who’s eligible? Any Oregon resident who hasn’t purchased or owned a single-family home, either individually or jointly, in the three years … read more
April 16, 2019
Oregon became the first state to impose a statewide rent control policy. Along the way, it banned evictions without cause. What does it mean for renters? Here’s a quick guide. Q. What’s the cap on rent increases and how does it work? A. The new law caps rent hikes at 7 percent plus inflation during any … read more