Lasting Trends

 

Lasting trends? What? Isn't that a paradox?

Well, it might be, but let’s go along with it. I think these rising Portland trends have enough classic touch and practicality to stick around.

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Not so hidden jewels

Eccentric, vibrant colors are in. This is increasingly common in the Portland Metro area, and elsewhere, as homeowners seek to add flair and evoke more emotion in their homes. This often adds stark and beautiful contrast to the warm, earthy colors already prevalent in homes.

Go small

The younger generations tend to prefer smaller -albeit more humble- living spaces. Combine this with an ever-growing desire to be mobile, and voila! We have ADUs and separate dwellings. Permanent homes- often much smaller- are built alongside the main home, and used as an extra living space or a cozy abode for visitors (permits are required, click here to learn about Portland’s ADU requirements).

Some of the more transient folks out there go a step further and stick these tiny homes on a set of wheels, allowing them to ride off into the sunset from the comfort of their own homes.

Get some you time

Truly private places are becoming more and more important in an overconnected world. Cozy, quiet places are quickly becoming must-haves in new and remodeled homes. Some folks turn these into silent reading spaces, others into music-jamming spaces. Whatever strikes your fancy, carving out your own personal space is surely the true path to home-owning enlightenment.

Your very own bar

Full bars and islands are exploding in popularity, as homeowners love keeping the night out at home. Often, family-style or picnic tables- complete with a bar-  are plopped right into the middle of the kitchen or dining space, even the basement, and used as a full-featured party space.

Portland- you love beer. Imagine the awesomeness of gathering your growlers and friends for a night out and completely making it your own.

Use it again

Repurposing materials- especially wood- is definitely a priority for Portland homeowners in 2017. Creating healthy living spaces- such as installing cleaner air systems and using no-formaldehyde cabinets- strengthens the growing repurposing movement. This is a microcosm of another rising trend- remodeling instead of buying a new home altogether. Remodeling saves time, stress, and money- not to mention it has less of an impact on the environment.

Sources:

http://www.customhomeonline.com/houses/2017-design-trend-predictions-from-zillow_s

http://www.oregonlive.com/hg/index.ssf/2017/01/top_design_trends_2017_neil_ke.html

https://www.pdxmonthly.com/articles/2015/9/14/sponsored-neil-kelly-2

http://pacificgrand.com/blog/the-best-top-5-home-design-trends-for-2017

I'm now licensed in Washington!

 

I decided to become licensed in Washington after eight years in Oregon because my clients and friends are looking for affordable housing in the Metro area.

I am now able to serve both sides of the river, and anywhere my clients are looking. Most are no longer tied to one area, but look in several areas that all have some things in common. SE Portland and Vancouver both tend to have larger lots. Troutdale and Camas have easy access to the Gorge and hiking. North and SW Portland have good access to downtown and Forest Park.

Many people are selling in one state and making the move to (a not very far away) new state! I can list your current home and help you find the next one while making that tough transition.  No matter your real estate plans, I can help make that move as easy as possible. 

Please do not hesitate to ask me any real estate questions or to send referrals my way. 

February Success Stories

Home sales are going strong here at M! Take a look at these beautiful homes throughout the region. Each home sold over asking price, and in a week or less! Call me if you'd like to get your home treated with the fantastic, and exclusive marketing service called TrueView before you jump into the market. Let's talk about your real estate goals!  

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7445 SE 50th Ave - $370,000 - $8k over asking!

Sold in 6 days!

Beds: 2 | Baths: 2 | 2,228 sqft.

Nestled in the vibrant Woodstock neighborhood, this charming mid-century bungalow awaits your creative touch! Pull into the driveway, where the adjacent lawn is punctuated by vibrant trees and a Japanese maple. The fully-fenced backyard is a spacious, private retreat– perfect for the gardener, summer months are to be spectacular in this singular outdoor living space!

 

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1366 SE 73rd Ct - $360,000

Sold in 4 days!

Beds: 3 | Baths: 2 | 1,459 sqft.

Nestled in a quiet neighborhood in colorful Hillsboro, this charming traditional home awaits its new owner! Bright shrubs and young trees frame this home’s friendly facade. Around back, a fully-fenced backyard features a stone patio, covered deck, soothing pond, and a storage shed. Enjoy warm days gardening or entertaining in this wonderful outdoor living space!

   

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5306 NE 34th Ave - $354,500 - $34,600 over asking!

Sold in 7 days!

Beds: 2 | Baths: 2 | 1,446 sqft.

This fantastic NE Portland bungalow is situated close to an abundance of local shops and restaurants on bustling Alberta and Killingsworth, and is across the street from New Seasons! Relax on the huge front porch, the perfect place for a porch swing. Around back, the private yard and deck create a lovely spot for entertaining guests.

 

Sneak Peeks for February 2017

Check out this month's diverse set of Sneak Peeks. From bustling Burnside to the ever-growing Gresham, one (or more) of these beautiful homes is sure to grab your attention! Inventory remains extremely light, so get a head start and contact me today. 

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2643 NE 20th Avenue- approx. $1,265,000

Classic Arts & Crafts home in the heart of Irvington on a rare double lot. Grand master suite, fabulous side porch to a landscaped backyard, and a full one-bedroom apartment in lower level. Original woodwork and box beams, and exceptional floor plan.

Residence Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 3 Square Feet: 4,759

Tri-level home in Tualatin- approx. $425,000 - $430,000

Updated Tri-level on 10k + sqft lot lives large for the square footage due to great flow and family living spaces. Double sided wood burning fireplace and A/C make this both a cozy home in the winter, and cool and comfortable during the summer.  

Residence Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3 Square Feet: 2,158

E. Burnside Victorian- mid $400k

Super charming 2-bedroom Victorian house in an amazing area- close to some of the best restaurants in Portland. Hop on your bike and commute downtown in minutes. Or, hang out on your porch and watch other people cruising on their bikes. High ceilings, bay window, built-ins… there’s even a garage down below where you can park your car and never take it out again.

Residence Bedrooms: 2; Bathrooms: 1; Square Feet: just under 1,000

English-style home near Reed College- approx. $735,000

Classic English style home with lots of original charm and character in a premier neighborhood.  Spacious formal living and dining rooms. refinished original hardwoods, original wrought iron railing, french doors, 3 bedrooms, new interior paint and updated kitchen with a built-in eating nook, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.

Residence Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 Square Feet: 3,200

1065 NW 3rd Street in Gresham- under $350,000

Rare opportunity to get into well established Gresham neighborhood! Classic tri-level on corner lot with 40 x 16 in-ground pool! Fifth bedroom was previously the bonus room on the lower level- lots of space!!!! Many updates have been done.

Residence Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 3 Square Feet: 2,044

Traditional Home in Bethany

Great home in top-rated Bethany school area. Four bedrooms, plus a den and a bonus room. The garage holds three cars, and the home is across from a park. 

Residence Bedrooms: 4+ Bathrooms: 3 Square Feet: 3,334

Non-Alternative Real Estate Facts

 

Regardless of where you stand on our colorful political spectrum these days, the term "alternative facts" has likely been a recent invader your personal media stream. As an antidote to that concept, here's a handful of non-alternative facts about real estate. That is to say, they're not arguably not true. They are, in fact, just fun facts that (hopefully) few people will spend their time arguing.

• The most expensive Portland home sold last year carried the final price tag of a mere $5,441,294.
• If you happen to be on the prowl for a trophy home, don't despair... the most expensive property on the market, a 16,359 square foot villa in West Linn listed at a cool $18,000,000, is still very much available.
• While January 2017 bedecked Portland with 8.39 inches of snow, it was nothing compared to our record winter wonderland of January 1893 that blanketed the City of Roses with 31.8 inches of snow.
• January 21st, 1943 still holds the record for most snowfall in Portland in a single day at 15.5 freezing inches.
• Portland's more traditional precipitation, warm liquid snow, led to the Willamette River flood of June 1894, where it reached its highest recorded mark at 33.5 feet. Flooding was so bad that downtown businesses sold their wares to boat traffic from their second floor windows.
• 122 short years later, in 2016, Money Magazine named Portland the "Best City in the West" due subjective things like our undeniable charm, as well as more concrete numbers like our median home price of $349k and unemployment rate of 4.7%.
• Several large tech companies agree with Money Magazine's assessment, planting their own roots in our tree-studded home. Portland has recently earned the nickname the "Silicon Forest." Feel free to use that when you're traveling and people ask you where you're from.

If you've got some non-alternative facts of your own to share, I'd love to hear them!

As always, it would be my honor to help you formulate your property plans. Please consider me your resident expert for all things real estate. I'm always happy to be of service, even if it's for something not necessarily sale related, like answering questions about testing for radon levels or finding a trusted vendor to make repairs on your property. All my contacts and experience are at your disposal!

Sneak Peeks for January 2017

Kicking off the new year with a trio of sneak peeks! Inventory is still very light so it helps to get a jump on the competition. If you or anyone you know is looking to sell their home, please don't hesitate to reach out!

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NW Flanders St (Alphabet District) - approx. $1,050,000

Charming 1890s home located in the very walkable NW Alphabet District; close to shops and restaurants. Currently a three-unit, multifamily home with a rental income and could be converted into a single family home. Each unit has a private balcony and washer/dryer. Beautiful and original details are showcased throughout. Listing going live this winter!

Residence Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 3.5 Square Feet: 3,002

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SE 26th Ave (Portland) - approx. $650,000

Beautiful Portland Four Square home with the perfect blend of modern and classic. High ceilings, natural light, wood floors, two claw foot bathtubs, and open floor plan with French doors in dining room opening to a large deck and private fenced garden. Large kitchen with stainless appliances, nook, and easy access to cozy second deck. Fantastic location within walkable distance to Portland's best restaurants, shops, and more!

Residence Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 Square Feet: 2,160

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NE Schuyler St (Irvington Neighborhood) - approx. $770,000

Historical Irvington home with period details and charm. Many updated mechanicals, new garage, and remodeled Neil Kelly basement.

Residence Bedrooms: 5 + bonus room Bathrooms: 2.5 Square Feet: 3,170

2016 Market Action Report

  Portland and SW Washington witnessed exponential real estate growth last year, and the RMLS 2016 Market Action Report has the data to back it up! Inventory is low, and sales prices have continued to leap from 2016, while homes spent less time on the market.

Despite the chilly weather, the 2017 market is already hot. If you're considering selling, I would love to discuss how this climate could turn your plans into reality.

To learn more about last year's market trends, read on. If numbers aren't your style or if you'd like my professional opinion on anything, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm always here for you and your referrals!

The Oldest Orchestra in the West

Portland is home to so many wonderful musical groups, the oldest of which is the Oregon Symphony. Founded in 1896, the Oregon Symphony was the first orchestra in the West. Throughout the last 120 years, the Oregon Symphony has continued to grow, expand its range of performances, and reach more listeners. It wasn’t until 1984 that the symphony moved to its current home, the Arlene Schnitzer concert hall, allowing it to begin producing recordings and host even more community events, as well as granting the musicians the opportunity to rehearse on the stage where they perform.

Today, the Oregon Symphony is one of only seven major orchestras in the US that were established in the 1800s. This year, their schedule boasts a diverse range of concerts, including the complete score of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, The Music of Prince, Mozart's Requiem, and John Williams' soundtrack to E. T. the Extra Terrestrial.

The Oregon Symphony also offers concerts for kids, as well as discount tickets for students and seniors. If you see me at one of their shows this season, make sure to say hello!

Source: http://www.orsymphony.org/index.aspx

Success Stories for January 2017

Home sales are going strong here at M! Take a look at these beautiful homes throughout the region. Each home sold over asking price, and in a week or less! Call me if you'd like to get your home treated with the fantastic and exclusive marketing service called TrueView before you jump into the market. Let's talk about your real estate goals!  

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8011 N New York Ave - $385,000

Sold in 7 days, $46k over asking!

Beds: 2 | Baths: 1 | 910 sqft. See yourself in this wonderfully charming bungalow in sweet St. John's! Located on a corner lot, this adorable home is located near the quaint downtown shopping street, verdant parks, and lovely restaurants. This home's expansive lot is a gardener's dream! Lush lawns surround this home, while ample garden beds house colorful shrubs. Around back, the fully fenced-in yard is full of potential! Enjoy open air meals on the cozy patio or entertain friends in this spacious outdoor living area.

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

 

 

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6123 E Bunside St - $351,000

Sold in 7 days, $28k over asking!

Beds: 2 | Baths: 1 | 2,600 sqft. This spacious, solidly built Mid-Century light-fixer home, with ADA features such as larger doorways and one-level living, is highly connected to transit and shopping, making it a great option for buyers looking to reduce their carbon footprint. A quaint front porch and mature landscaping welcomes you and your guests, while the shared driveway provides options for off street parking. Around back, the fully-fenced yard is perfect for outdoor entertaining, boasting a covered patio for barbecues and gardening potential.

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

 

 

 

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1307 NE 155th Ave - $300,000

Sold in 4 days, $25.1k over asking!

Beds: 3 | Baths: 2.1 | 1,477 sqft. Nestled in a quiet neighborhood of northeast Portland, this charming ranch home simply awaits your creative vision! Pull into the generous driveway, where a two car garage is ready to house all your tools, cars, and toys. Lush, mature trees surround this home's spacious yard, where cobblestone garden beds feature colorful shrubs and a Japanese maple. Head around back, where the stone- terraced backyard is prime to be transformed into a lovely garden. The expansive raised deck is ideal for hosting barbecues during the summer months!

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

 

 

Know Your Holiday Trees

  The evergreens of the Northwest are hard to beat -- providing us with lush scenery and fresh air throughout the year. With about 60,000 acres of land dedicated to tree farms, the PNW is home to 17% of the tree farms in the US, boasting approximately 950 tree farms throughout Oregon and Washington. We supply majority of the trees up and down the West coast, and some even find their way across the Pacific in countries like Japan, China, and the Philippines.

With fir species in abundance all over the region, two types reign supreme during the holiday season. The ever mighty Noble fir tops the list at 54% of sales with the Douglas fir not too far behind at 32%. If you're still on the hunt for that special tree, here are just a few places to check out for some fantastic tree options. 

Plumper Pumpkin Patch 11435 NW Old Cornelius Pass Rd. Portland, OR 97231

Quail Creek Ranch 9949 NW Kaiser Rd. Portland, OR 97231

Helvetia Tree Farm 12814 NW Bishop Rd. Hillsboro, OR 97124

Furrow Farm 25877 NW West Union Rd. Hillsboro, OR. 97124

Beaverton U-Cut Tree Farm 5365 SW 209th Ave. Beaverton, OR 97007

Pollard Ranch 13225 NW Skyline Blvd. Portland, OR 97231

Once the holiday season is over, don't forget to recycle your tree! Portland Metro and the City of Vancouver provide handy online guides for what to do after all is said and done. 

As always, I am here to answer any and all of your real estate questions. Thank you for helping me have a spectacular 2016, and hope to see you in 2017!

Best of TrueView 2016

  What did 2016 mean for you? Well, for us at M Realty, we saw an exciting evolution in our TrueView marketing platform. More and more agents used this incredible resource to showcase and highlight each home that they listed. TrueView is truly unparalleled in the industry -- if you're thinking about selling, let's talk about how we can leverage TrueView to get you the best deal possible! 

I've chosen a few of my favorite listings throughout the year. Check them out below!

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2052 NE 11th Ave #6

Beds: 2 | Baths: 2.1 | 1,833 sqft. Nestled in the Broadway/Irvington neighborhood, this contemporary home is close to an abundance of local restaurants and entertainment. The Pearl District, Lloyd Center and downtown are also conveniently close. The modern facade features clean lines and touches of color. On the rooftop a fantastic escape awaits, with gorgeous views of the city from the terrace–the ideal spot to host barbecues and gatherings during the summer months. The one car garage is a wonderful amenity.

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

  

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27100 SW Oceanspray Pl

Beds: 6 | Baths: 5.1 | 8,159 sqft. Located at the gateway to Oregon's wine country on a private two-acre lot, this beautifully designed custom home is enveloped by panoramic scenery of mountains, vineyards and unobstructed views as far as the eye can see. Take in the magnificent vistas from a variety of private viewing patios for seamless indoor/outdoor enjoyment and entertainment. Look out onto the 180 degree view, while you relax with a glass of wine and take in the sunset and sunrise; the backyard borders hundreds of acres of nature reserve area, offering you total privacy. Park-like and picturesque, the grounds feature walking trails, natural stone sitting areas, a designer fire pit and playground area–there is even room to create your own vineyard!

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

 

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4405 SW Dosch Rd

Beds: 3 | Baths: 2 | 2,615 sqft. This beautifully remodeled Mid-Century Modern home is set back in nature, with lush flora adding color and privacy throughout. Around back, an elevated deck is ideal for outdoor entertaining, while the lower level patio is private and serene.

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

  

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4901 NE 23rd Ave

Beds: 4 | Baths: 3.1 | 3,256 sqft. Masterfully designed, built and meticulously cared-for custom home with a perfect blend of modern amenities and classic materials in the desireable Alberta Arts neighborhood in Northeast Portland. The ultimate in entertaining with ample curb appeal to welcome guests, large open rooms, gourmet kitchen, high ceilings, magnificent outdoor living space and gorgeous gardens. Enjoy close proximity to great shops, restaurants, and parks, as well as a quick commute to downtown Portland.

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

  

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17001 NE Fairview Dr

Beds: 3 | Baths: 2.1 | 3,860 sqft. Located in the Red Hills above charming Dundee, the heart of Oregon's wine country, this stunning Mediterranean-style home is a must-see. Lined by fragrant lavenders, pass down cobblestone steps into the continental-style courtyard where stone pavers lead to a limestone Italian village fountain, where calming streams of water bubble out of forged spouts. Head around back via a stone path, where a veranda overlooks the garden and vineyards beyond. Enjoy this space any time, where a covered dining area is the perfect venue to enjoy a meal with friends. LED landscaping lighting illuminates the courtyard, veranda, and garden and guides you down to the Arctic hot tub, perfect for enjoying clear nights any time of year.

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

  

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Sneak Peeks for December 2016

I've got a special Sneak Peek for you this month -- check it out. Inventory is low, but buyers are still looking for their dream homes. If you or anyone you know is looking to sell their home, give me a call!

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Winkel Way, West Linn - approx. $689,000

Fabulous home and backs to green space. This former model home features a truly GREAT ROOM with fireplace, gleaming hardwoods, a cooks kitchen, large master suite with dressing room. Great room opens to a recently recreated backyard.

Residence Bedrooms: 4+ den and bonus room Bathrooms: 2.1 Square Feet: 3,139

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Success Stories for December 2016

Home sales are going strong here at M! Take a look at these beautiful homes throughout the region. Each home sold over asking price, and in less than a week. Call me if you'd like to get your home treated with the fantastic and exclusive marketing service called TrueView before you jump into the market. Let's talk about your real estate goals!  

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6828 SE Ash St - $750,000

Sold in 3 days, $30k over asking!

Beds: 3 | Baths: 2.1 | 2,719 sqft. This fantastic Mt Tabor contemporary home has been beautifully updated! Enjoy quick access to tons of SE Portland dining and entertainment options, while the nearby I-84 and I-205 are perfect for commuters. Neat landscaping decorates the front yard, welcoming guests to the home. A two-car garage offers tons of space for parking and storage. Entertain with ease in the backyard, where a sizable deck overlooks the lovely garden. A large patio sweeps around the side, leading to fruit trees and another garden space!

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

 

 

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19265 SW Rosedale Ct - $250,000

Sold in 2 days, $10k over asking!

Beds: 3 | Baths: 2.1 | 2,719 sqft. This fantastic Mt Tabor contemporary home has been beautifully updated! Enjoy quick access to tons of SE Portland dining and entertainment options, while the nearby I-84 and I-205 are perfect for commuters. Neat landscaping decorates the front yard, welcoming guests to the home. A two-car garage offers tons of space for parking and storage. Entertain with ease in the backyard, where a sizable deck overlooks the lovely garden. A large patio sweeps around the side, leading to fruit trees and another garden space!

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

 

 

 

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19265 SE 88th Ave - $271,000

Sold in 4 days, $12k over asking!

Beds: 3 | Baths: 1 | 1,884 sqft. A lush lawn and neat shrubbery welcome guests at the front, while around back a spacious yard provides ample room for entertainment and relaxation. Easily utilize the detached tool shed for additional storage.

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

 

 

A Smarter Home

 

Technological advances in the last 15 years or so has brought us smart phones, smart cars, and now, smart homes. The smart home industry has seen a recent uptick in interest, and while they may not all be necessary upgrades for your home, a few of these gadgets could be fun additions to your daily routine. Here's a snapshot of what products are out there right now. 

Amazon Echo

Amazon released the first iteration of the Echo in 2014, and since then, it has made strides in connecting folks to their homes. A voice-activated device, the Echo is a fantastic control center for the other smart devices in your home. When you enter a room, ask Alexa to turn on your smart lights, and the room will be illuminated within seconds. If you have a smart garage door, you can ask Alexa to close it for you from the kitchen. With built-in speakers, you can easily play music through the various music streaming services available during a dinner party. 

Nest Learning Thermostat

The humble thermostat has finally been updated with the Nest Learning Thermostat. With the ability to learn your ideal temperature and know when nobody is home, the Nest can set up the perfect schedule for your air conditioning needs with very little work on your end. This will help make your home more comfortable while also helping you save money.

Lutron Serena Remote Controlled Shades

Gone are days of fiddling with strings to lower or raise your blinds with the Lutron Serena. With a push of a button, you can control the motorized shades from across the room, and let in a much or as little light as you want. 

Power outlet with integrated USB Ports

Perhaps the simplest and cheapest smart home upgrade you can do is change out your old power outlets with ones that have several built-in USB Ports. Easily charge your smart phones, tablets, and other USB enabled devices without having to deal with a power brick. 

Let me know if I missed one of your favorite smart home devices! If you have any real estate related questions, you know who to call. 

Make it Ahead!

 

Ah, Thanksgiving. A holiday whose sole purpose is to get uncomfortably full on wonderful, rich foods and hang out with you favorite people. But the lead-up to the feast is typically a mad rush, with lots of kneading, mixing, and willing the turkey to be done in time. If this year you would like to kick back and relax before dinner instead, check out these great make-ahead recipes. You'll thank yourself in a few weeks!

I wanted to say thank you for supporting my real estate career. I love being an advocate for my clients, and helping them realize their homeownership dreams!

Sneak Peeks for November 2016

I've got a few Sneak Peeks for you this month -- check them out. Inventory is low, but buyers are still looking for their dream homes. If you or anyone you know is looking to sell their home, give me a call!

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Aerie Dr, Tigard - approx. $539,000

Quality Renaissance home with custom remodel touches, gleaming refinished hardwood floors, spacious feel with formal & informal spaces. Granite kitchen has huge cooktop island and open to family room with slider to manicured yard and deck for entertaining. Master suite and 3 roomy extra bedrooms upstairs.

Residence Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2.5 Square Feet: 2,429

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SE 67th ave, Portland - approx. $295,000

Double-extra charming Bungalow in inner SE for less then $300,000. Investor/builder possibilities.

Residence Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1 Square Feet: approx. 1,100

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Happy Valley - approx. $700,000

On top of Mt. Scott, this Great home in the city of Happy Valley with great views off the decks. Separate tax lot, swimming pool and hot tub. Lots of room! Will separate if not interested in extra lot.

Residence Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 3 Square Feet: 3,250

 

Success Stories for November 2016

Home sales are going strong here at M! Take a look at these beautiful homes throughout the region. Each home sold over asking price, and in less than a week. Call me if you'd like to get your home treated with the fantastic and exclusive marketing service called TrueView before you jump into the market. Let's talk about your real estate goals!

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231 NE 90th Ave - $358,000

Sold in 3 days, $8k over asking!

Beds: 3 | Baths: 2.1 | 1,425 sqft. Framed by a welcoming arbor and colorful garden, this Montavilla charmer is sure to delight! A cheery barn-red tool shed with a loft adds whimsy to the spacious yard, fantastic for outdoor entertaining. The driveway and attached garage provide ample room for your cars, RV, tools, and toys. Updates in 2012 and 2013 include Hardiplank siding, windows and a tankless water heater.

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

 

 

 

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2520 Sunset Ave - $385,000

Sold in 4 days, $25k over asking!

Beds: 3 | Baths: 2 | 1,353 sqft. Nestled in verdant West Linn, this charming bungalow is surrounded by neat shrubs and expansive vistas of the hills and neighborhoods beyond. Pull into the curved driveway, where a gravel pathway leads to the open garden. Surrounded by high hedges, this private outdoor living space features beds of succulents, lavender, and lovely shrubs. A raised terrace overlooks the whole space, ideal for enjoying drinks on a warm day. In the fenced-in backyard, entertain friends around the fire pit or barbecue on the wide deck.

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

 

 

 

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9412 N Portsmouth Ave - $352,000

Sold in 7 days, $27k over asking!

Beds: 3 | Baths: 1 | 940 sqft. Close to St. Johns, this charming mid-century ranch style home combines relaxed living and easy commuting. Just a five-minute drive to New Seasons, access to parks and trails, and great dining options nearby, are just a few of the many highlights of this location. This home boasts an expansive yard and a welcoming covered front porch while the one car garage provides enough room for your car, tools, and toys. Around back, a private garden oasis awaits, featuring raised garden beds, a large patio for entertaining, and a sizable lawn.

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

 

 

 

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13300 SE Tumbleweed Ct - $346,000

Sold in 6 days, $26k over asking!

Beds: 4 | Baths: 2.1 | 1,782 sqft. Come and be delighted by this charming two-story traditional home situated on a large corner lot in a quiet Happy Valley neighborhood. A generous lawn and sizable driveway welcome guests at the front, while around back, the fully fenced yard is expansive and full of outdoor entertaining potential. Enjoy barbecues on the quaint patio, while extra storage is provided in the corner tool shed.

 

Check out the TrueView site for more photos and videos.

 

 

 

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Crafty Costumes

 

Halloween is creeping up on us and here are some fun and crafty DIY costumes for you to try out. If you do end up making any of these costumes, don't forget to share it on social media by tagging @mrealtyhomes. If you're looking to move into a haunted house (or a regular house), you know who to call!

Gumball Machine Materials: White t-shirt Fabric glue Multicolor pom-poms Red skirt or pants.

Simply glue the pom-poms securely all over the white t-shirt, and tuck it into the red pants or skirt!

Solar System Materials: Galaxy printed shirt or dress Eight or nine foam balls (depending on whether or not you'd like to include pluto, which you should) Craft sewing needle that is at least as long as your largest foam ball Acrylic paint Black string or fishing line

Paint the foam balls like the planets, allow them to dry completely, then use the craft sewing needle to thread them onto the fishing line or string. Tie the chain of planets into a loop, then wear as a sash over your galaxy printed shirt or dress.

Jellyfish Materials: Large cowboy hat Sheet of cardboard Bubble wrap One yard of felt One yard of shiny fabric Ribbon Stapler Duct tape

Cut the cardboard into a donut shape, large enough to fit around the hat. Staple felt to the bottom of the cardboard, then cut out the felt underneath where your head goes. Add bubble wrap to fill in the top of the hat, using the duct tape to keep it in place. Next, add your tentacles by stapling different lengths and types of ribbon around the brim. If you have battery powered LED lights, you can add them with the ribbon to make this costume light up. Finally, staple the shiny fabric over the bubble wrap.

Grapevine Materials: Large purple balloons String Stapler Safety pins Black headband Green felt

Blow up the balloons, and tie them in clusters to the string, then safety pin the grapevines to a plain shirt. Cut out leaf shapes from the felt, then staple them to your headband. To make this costume a raspberry, just use red balloons.

And for your furry friends, Ghost Dog Materials: White sheet large enough to cover your dog Scissors Black marker

Cut three round holes in the middle of the sheet, two for your dog's eyes, and one large enough for your dog's nose and mouth to fit through. Draw a circle around the holes. For added cuteness, give your dog a pumpkin candy basket to hold.

The Value of Your M Agent

 

Popular internet-based real estate marketplaces like Zillow, Trulia, and Craigslist have made searching for your dream home a whole lot easier on your own. However, there are several important things to remember about why having a real estate professional on your side can make the process much better! Here are just a few ways your M Agent beats the internet:

 
• Internet-based real estate marketplaces often give an estimate of a listing based on market prices of homes around the area. While these estimates and pricing calculators have gotten better over the years, nothing beats an agent's local knowledge and resources in seeking out homes that are within your budget.
• Your agent's experience and knowledge can help you put your best foot forward at the negotiation table. You want someone on your side with access to the best facts and figures without undermining either the buyer or seller. While you may have some idea about how the market is playing out, a real estate professional will likely know just a bit more than you. Agents at M also have the benefit of working at a brokerage where there are forums for other agents to offer their support and expertise.
• Your agent is there to understand your needs and your desires -- the internet can't really do that for you. By putting you first, and gaining your trust, your agent will be able to help you achieve your real estate goals, be it finding your first home or selling your third!
• Not all homes for sale have an online presence -- some homes exist just under the radar. Typically, agents will let each other know of new pocket listings that might be of interest, or share exclusive listings before they even hit the market. (See for yourself and check out my sneak peeks!) This is valuable information, especially in this current market.
• When you're working with an agent, especially an M Realty Agent, you know that they have your best interests in mind. The internet may let you quickly search for that house you drove past, but your agent can show you a house that you may have not considered, but perfect for you.

There are many other things your M Agent can do for you -- shuffling through mountains of paperwork is just one of them. If you'd like to learn more about what I can do for you, don't hesitate to reach out.

Sneak Peeks for October 2016

I've got a wonderful batch of Sneak Peeks for you. Look through the post and if any catch your attention, get in touch with me! I am always here to answer any and all of your real estate questions.

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SE 74th Ave, Portland - approx. $270,000

One owner ranch built in 1980 on a corner lot features 2 large sheds, RV parking, and 2 car attached garage. The living room has a newer gas stove and the master bedroom has a half bath that connects to the full bathroom.

Residence Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1.1 Square Feet: 980

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SW Walnut Terrace - approx. $875,000

Custom built 2008, original owner/builder in a secluded location. Private naturescape garden that blooms all year. Features a 5 car garage + 2 lifts, totaling to 7 parking spaces.

Residence Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2.2 Square Feet: approx. 4,000

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NE 28th Ave, Portland - approx. $1,050,000

Fabulous new construction pre-sale claims 4 bedrooms and 3.1 baths in the main residence and 1 bedroom, 1 bath ADU above the garage. Only one block from the shopping, dining, and culture that Alberta Arts has to offer!

Residence Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 4.1 Square Feet: 2016

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NE 29th Ave, Portland- approx. $849,900

Lovely 3,095 square ft bungalow located on a quite street in the Alameda neighborhood. It has 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, the main floor features a large living room with beautiful custom built-ins and fireplace with Pratt and Larson tile, master suite with walk-in closet and french doors open to a covered patio. Excellent school district and large backyard for entertaining. Detached garage and private home office (potential ADU!?). The exterior and interior will be painted on 10/13.

Residence Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 4 Square Feet: 3,095

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