Rose City Realtors

Plan to Make Your Spring Beautiful - Get Ideas Feb. 17 to 19 2012

2012-02-09T17:19:00.000-08:00

Spring is coming, and no blustery wind can blow hard enough to keep it from greening our beautiful city. Though the days are still cold and (occasionally) rainy, now is the time to think about what you want to plant and plan for in the warmer days ahead.

If you're in need of planning ideas, put Portland's Yard, Garden and Patio Show on your calendar. The show runs February 17 to 19 at the Oregon Convention Center. Dennis' 7 Dees landscaping hosts the event, which is one of the largest consumer gardening shows in the country. Look for gorgeous showcase gardens for inspiration, and days filled with seminars on how to make those showcase ideas come to life in your own yard.

And if you're a brown-thumb, like me, it's still a wonderful place to get ideas for your dream garden - that I may have to hire somebody else to bring to fruition.

If you'd like to buy a garden of your own - and a home to go with it - contact me: amy@rosecityrealtors.com or 503-936-8705.

Tickets to the Yard Garden and Patio Show can be purchased a the doors for $12. Kids 12 and under are free.

- Amy Seaholt

When it Comes to Inspections, Wish for Rain

2012-02-06T11:34:00.000-08:00

It was another sunny weekend here in Portland. Though I am definitely a fan of the fair weather on a personal level, professionally I secretly curse the lack of winter rain. Searching for a home in winter can have it's disadvantages - the inventory can be scarce as sellers wait until spring to put their homes on the market and gauging what a garden will do in the spring is nearly impossible. But there is one distinct advantage that makes me want to tell every client to buy in the winter: water.

When the (normally) heavy Northwest rain falls, a homes water issues can become apparent, revealing issues that in summer may be nearly impossible to see. I have some clients, dear friends, who I helped with the purchase of their dream home in summer. They called me justifiably upset after the first rain the fall after they moved in. Inches of water in their basement. I felt horrible for them! The challenge is that there were few signs of a problem in the basement, save for slight water marking that is actually pretty common in older homes. And if the home has Portland Cement - that porous aggregate so common in homes around here - dry weather makes it even more difficult to tell if it's a big problem like my friends had, or a smaller issue of seeping. (I realize that this example is also about the failure of the sellers to disclose the water intrusion, which is unfortunately difficult to prove, though depending on the situation may be worth pursuing in court. Fodder for another post.)

But there are the successful examples, too. I helped another friend purchase a home through Fannie Mae, who as a bank are not able to provide a detailed disclosure. The inspector found a roof leak because of staining on the living room ceiling. Once that dried in summer the problem may not have been apparent. Another client purchased a fixer where the walls seeped and mildew was beginning to grow. They were able to financially for the needed repairs. A good thing, because once summer rolled around the basement dried out and hid it's issues.

You and you family should decide to purchase a home or investment property in whatever season works for you. Just know that every season has its benefits and drawbacks.

One of the best things you can do is to hire well-recommended inspectors to investigate any issues with your prospective property. I like the guys over at Associated Master Inspectors, and Elena likes to use Home Inspections NW. While we can't unearth every problem, between good inspectors and Realtors, like Elena and I, who are willing to do as much homework as we can to find out the complete picture of a property's condition, you can do all you can to minimize surprises once you own the home.

If you are thinking of buying a home any time soon - whether winter, spring, summer or fall - I'd be happy to help you unearth the right home for you and be aware of its condition when you buy it. Give me a call at 503-936-8705 or email amy@rosecityrealtors.com.

-Amy Seaholt

Is It Possible to Turn Your Current Home Into Investment Property?

2012-01-27T11:30:00.000-08:00

If you've ever considered keeping your current home as a rental, and using this "buyer's market" to get into your dream home, 2012 will be the time to seriously consider it. There are a lot of factors indicating that this is probably a wise decision if you have the means. Below are just a few things to consider:

I'm not going to lie - it's a tough market for selling your home. By keeping it, you could take advantage of market timing. I don't always recommend trying to anticipate or "play" the market (usually it's best to make decisions on what's right for your family, not by RMLS and NAR data), but in this case, you may be able to buy in a low market and wait several years for a small recovery before you sell.
Due to the recent decrease in home ownership in the past couple of years, the demand for rental property is at a high. I think it's a sad predicament - that housing is both difficult to find and at a premium. Moving out of your first-time home and adding a well-kept property to the rental pool might help both parties - renters and investors - in this climate.
The Federal Reserve announced Wednesday that it anticipates keeping the federal funds rate low through 2014. While these inter-bank interest rates don't immediately affect consumers, they do eventually influence the interest rates consumers pay on their home loans. The challenge is that interest rates are higher for loans on investment property. However, if you've lived in your primary residence for a year or more (check the fine print on your loan terms), you may be able to keep your current loan in place and still take advantage of primary home rates on your new property.

If you'd like to explore whether this option will work for you, it's usually best to start by speaking with a lender. The two of us can work together to help you figure out if there is enough equity in your home and if there are mortgage options for this approach to work for you.

If you'd like to start receiving listings that fit the bill for your next home sent directly to you, sign up via my search website here. If you need a lender suggestion, I work with some great people! Call me at 503-936-8705 or email amy@rosecityrealtors.com for contact information.

SE Uplift and the Office of Neighborhood Involvement Small Grants Program

2011-08-25T22:21:00.000-07:00

It’s that time of year again when SE Uplift and the Office of Neighborhood Involvement take applications for the Neighborhood Small Grants program, which in it’s 6^th year. Here’s more from SE Uplift:

“SE Uplift will be awarding $46,058 in grant funds to neighborhood, business and community-based groups. Grants will be awarded through a competitive basis and may range from $1,000-$7,500.

The goal of the grant program is to provide neighborhood and community organizations the opportunity to build community, attract new and diverse members and sustain those already involved. We accomplish this through building partnerships between neighborhood, business, and community based organizations. Engagement of historically under-engaged communities is a high priority for this grant program.

This year applicants are required to have an organizational partner on proposed projects. Preference will be given to proposals submitted on behalf of or in direct partnership with one or more of the following:

Neighborhood associations
Organizations predominantly led by people from historically under-engaged communities including communities of color, immigrants and refugees, youth, people with disabilities and lesbian, gay, bi and trans communities
Business associations or individual businesses

For more information about SE Uplift's 2012 Neighborhood Small Grants Program or to download the grant application, visit our website.

For more information, questions or feedback on your project idea, please contact Kristen 503-232-0010 x 319.”

Application Deadline:

Tuesday, November 1 by 2:00PM

Energy Star 2011 Welcome Home Sweepstakes

2011-08-15T22:54:00.000-07:00

NW Energy Star Homes is holding a "Welcome Home" $25,000 sweepstakes through September. The $25,000 winner could use the money as a down payment or to purchase a new home (whether it's an Energy Star home or not).

Simply:
1) Find a Home
2) Take a Tour
3) Tell NW Energy Star What You Think

Contat us to find a participating home in your area

Escrow Tips: Tax Holdbacks

2011-08-11T13:38:00.000-07:00

We have moved into the season of Tax Holdbacks.
Preparing your clients for this additional financial responsibility is another way to help your transaction flow quickly and smoothly. During the period of September 1^st through October 15^th, your buyer/borrower’s lender, in most cases, will require a Tax Holdback for the estimated payment of the 2011-12 county property taxes. This estimated amount quite often is 115% of the previous year’s tax amount.
Also during this time, pro-rations of the property taxes will be a debit to the seller and a credit to the buyer. The prorated tax value will be based on last year’s tax amount as the New Year’s tax amount is not yet available, unless the sales agreement instructs for a different figure to be used.

It’s a good idea to confirm with your seller that once the tax roll is certified (around October 15^th), any taxes due for the remainder of the year will be charged to the Seller to clear the lien of taxes. Your seller will receive a credit for the buyer’s pro-rated share. To clarify, prior to the certification of the tax roll, the taxes are “a lien, not yet payable”. Once the tax roll turns, they become a lien on the title to property. Additionally, if your seller has an escrow account for property taxes/ insurance, they will get a refund from their lender about three weeks after closing; it is not a credit at the closing table. They should contact their lender for the specific information on how the funds will be returned.

Time of closing is critical when dealing with tax prorates between the buyer and seller. When in doubt, ask questions. We’re on your team and here to help.

Escrow Tips Courtesy of Theresa Marshall, Senior Escrow Office at Lawyers Title. With over 15 years experience Theresa is a great resource for your Title & Escrow needs.

Movies in the Park(s)

2011-07-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

One of the many great things about summers in Portland are all the great free events put on by the park department. Here's a list of movies in the park for the rest of the season. If you can try and see one or more, Pre-movie entertainment starts at 630p and the movies start at dark.
Enjoy!

Thu, July 28 Ferris Bueller’s Day Off DeWitt Park

Fri, July 29 The King’s Speech Laurelhurst Park

Sat, July 30 Free Willy Holly Farm Park

Sun, July 31 The Goonies Sellwood Park

Tue, Aug 2 Tangled Glenfair Park

Tue, Aug 2 Megamind Earl Boyles Park

Wed, Aug 3 Iron Man 2 Wellington Park

Thu, Aug 4 Despicable Me Mt Scott Park

Fri, Aug 5 Wall-E Alberta Park

Sat, Aug 6 How to Train Your Dragon King School Park

Sun, Aug 7 Yogi Bear Sellwood Park

Wed, Aug 10 Secretariat Wilkes Park

Thu, Aug 11 E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial Elizabeth Caruthers Park

Fri, Aug 12 Gamara vs Guiron (live dialogue & music) Sewallcrest Park

Sat, Aug 13 James and the Giant Peach Dickinson Park

Sun, Aug 14 Tangled* Hazeltine Park

Wed, Aug 17 Back to the Future Colonel Summers Park

Thu, Aug 18 Toy Story 3* Woodstock Park

Fri, Aug 19 Rango Irving Park

Sat, Aug 20 How to Train Your Dragon Warner Pacific College

Sun, Aug 21 Iron Man 2 Lents Park

Wed, Aug 24 The Sorceror’s Apprentice Unthank Park

Thu, Aug 25 The Twilight Saga: Eclipse Parklane Park

Fri, Aug 26 Megamind* St Johns Park

Sat, Aug 27 The Social Network Laurelhurst Park

Sun, Aug 28 How to Train Your Dragon Argay Park

Thu, Sept 1 Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 Columbia Park

Fri, Sept 2 Roman Holiday* Director Park

Sat, Sept 3 Gulliver’s Travels (2010) Wallace Park

Thu, Sept 8 North by Northwest Elizabeth Caruthers Park

Sat, Sept 10 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang April Hill Park

Looking a the Silver Lining, Not the Cloud

2011-06-28T14:11:00.000-07:00

Housing market's silver lining - Jun. 21, 2011

I thought this article from CNN Money was a good read if you're interested in what's going to happen with the real estate market. It makes the point that the tough housing market isn't all bad. It's great for first time buyers and makes homes more affordable even for those who are not buying their first home, but want to move up or buy investment property.

Foundation Crack

The most interesting and thought provoking point, for me, was that this market creates a foundation for a housing recovery in the future. Of course! It makes so much sense! We were not on solid footing before, but we're getting there now. How did I not see it before!? Oh, wait... It wasn't just me. Few saw it before and those people weren't believed.

Many people still can and should seize the opportunity to take advantage of the affordable market. Call Amy or Elena at Rose City Realtors if you'd like to see what you might afford in Portland today.

- Amy Seaholt, Broker in Oregon, CDPE
503-936-8705

Expect more Micro Houses around Portland

2011-06-20T10:32:00.000-07:00

The nation's population is predicted to grow by 150 million in the next 40 years, we can expect at least a few of those people to be here in Portland. To poorly paraphrase Mark Twain: they're not making more land. Instead we must learn to live on it more efficiently (read: tiny footprint), as described in this Realtor Magazine article.

Micro homes are tiny homes - from 100 to 800 square feet - with efficient floor plans and a very small greenhouse footprint. D.R. Horton has begun development of the first micro home community in Southeast Portland at 43rd and Division. Consistent with the idea of an efficient mixed use community, the neighborhood is walkable, centrally located, and cleverly developed.

Toronto's Tiny Home

Though this photo of a Toronto home made it's way around the internet and email lists as the target of jokes recently, the home is real and it meets a real need. These homes are targeted toward first time buyers or single-person households. Considering that married couples no longer make up the majority of homeowners in the U.S., the move to creating a smaller housing base makes sense.

You can read more about these tiny houses and see other options besides those provided by D.R. Horton here.

If you or anyone you know is interested in exploring these micro homes - or bigger houses - give Amy or Elena at Rose City Realtors a call and we can help you with your home search.

- Amy Seaholt 503-936-8705

To tree or not to tree?

2010-12-02T15:59:00.000-08:00

If trees are your thing this holiday season and you still don't have one.

Try one of these tree farms this weekend

Christmas Tree Farms
Beck’s Christmas trees
16700 S Gerber Rd, Oregon City
503.631.7947
http://www.becksfarms.com/

Batcheller Family Tree Farm
13022 S Spangler Rd, Oregon City
503.784.3000

Bob’z Tree Farm
21579 S Springwater Rd, Estacada
503.663.4505
http://www.bobzgardencenter.com/

Christmas Mountain
25470 NW Dixie Mountain Rd, Scappoose
503.621.3169
http://www.chrismasmountaintrees.com/

Helvetia Christmas Tree Farm
12814 NW Bishop Rd, Hillsboro
503.647.5858
http://www.youcut.com/

Lee Farms
21975 SW 65th Ave, Tualatin
503.638.1869
http://www.leefarmsoregon.com/

Loch Lolly Christmas Forest
28366 NW Dorland Rd, North Plains
503.647.2619
http://www.lochlollychristmasforest.com/

McCann Noble Christmas Trees
20990 SW Jaquith Rd, Newberg
503.312.4694
http://www.mccannnoblechristmastreefarm.com/

Parry’s Tree Farm
45627 NW David Hill Rd, Forest Grove
503.348.9601
http://www.parrysfarm.us/

Plumper Pumpkins Tree Farm
11435 NW Old Cornelius Pass Rd, Portland
503.645.9561
http://www.plumperpumpkins.com/

Quail Creek Ranch
9949 NW Kaiser Rd, Portland
503.629.5464
http://www.qcrxtrees.com/

Sleighbells Christmas Trees
23855 SW 195th Pl, Sherwood
503.625.6052
http://www.sleighbells.biz/

Snowline Tree Farm
39098 S Sawtell Rd, Molalla
503.333.0168
http://www.snowlinetreefarm.com/

Stardig Tree Farm
16665 S Spangler Rd, Beavercreek
503.632.6635
http://www.stardigtreefarm.com/

Tracy’s Tree Farm
21885 S Eaden Rd, Oregon City
503.631.7320
http://www.tracystrees.synthasite.com/

Snow spots

2010-12-02T15:55:00.000-08:00

You know it’s Snowonderful, go out and have fun!

Snow & Road Conditions:
http://www.tripcheck.com/
800.977.6368 (ODOT)

Anthony Lakes
http://www.anthonylakes.com/

Cooper Spur
http://www.cooperspur.com/
541.352.7803

Hoodoo Ski Area
http://www.hoodoo.com/
541.272.3206

Mt. Bachelor
http://www.mtbachelor.com/
800.829.2442

Mt. Hood Meadows
http://www.skihood.com/
503.337.2222

Mt. Hood Ski Bowl
http://www.skibowl.com/
503.272.3206

Summit Ski Area
503.272.0256

Timberline Ski Area
http://www.timberlinelodge.com/
503.222.2211

Willamette Pass
http://www.willamettepass.com/
541.345.7669

October 2010 - Market Action Report

2010-10-30T16:30:00.000-07:00

Neighborhood Small Grants Program

2010-09-28T12:17:00.000-07:00

Since 2007, the Office of Neighborhood Involvement and Southeast Uplift have partnered to offer the annual Neighborhood Small Grants Program. The grants program responds to years of input from neighborhood and community leaders for increased direct resources to neighborhood associations and other community-based groups working on local neighborhood projects.
The goal for this annual grant program is to provide neighborhood and community organizations an opportunity to build community, attract new and diverse members and sustain those already involved
Read more about the Grant Program here

Please Attend The Grant Information Session
Interested parties are invited this session to learn more about get feedback about their project ideas. Participation is strongly recommended though not required.
Thurs. Sept 30, 6:30-8:00PM
SE Uplift Neighborhood Coalition
3534 SE Main, two blocks south of Hawthorne.
To RSVP, please contact Kristen at kristen@southeastuplift.org or 503-232-0010 x 319

The Deadline to Apply is Monday, November 1, 2010 by 2PM.

Open House 1p-4p Sunday 5 Sep | Clinton St Foursquare

2010-09-04T11:21:00.000-07:00

Clinton Foursquare
3026 SE Clinton, Portland OR 97202

This Clinton Street foursquare offers abundant space in a tranquil setting.
The location has a walk score of 91, and sits on a recognized bike friendly street. You are just blocks to Clinton/ Division shopping and restaurants. The western exposure helps to take advantage of the light shining through original picture windows. The charming traditional entry welcomes you, and the archways connect you to the large living room with wood burning stove. The dining room features original built-ins, and the spacious kitchen awaits your personal updates. The main floor has beautiful oak floors throughout. The sun room with tile floors connects you to the first of two side yards. Lush organic landscape with a deck and built in bench provides space to enjoy the late day sun. The east side with patio off the kitchen is ideal for morning coffee.
Contact me to take a look at this wonderful home and you won’t be disappointed!
3 bedroom
2 bathrooms
2416 square feet
unfinished basement
$5k carpet credit
mls #10065208

Elena MacPhee
Principal Broker
Rose City Realtors
503.453.6156

July Market Action - Inventory

2010-08-24T12:29:00.000-07:00

RMLS (Regional Multiple Listing Service) has released the residential review for the Portland Metro area.
NAR (National Association of Realtors) also put out numbers, you can read their report here.
As expected the pending sales that were generated as part of the tax credit have closed, so the number of sales has dropped significantly (both on a month-to-month and year ago analysis). Sales prices have also fallen, though much less dramatically. Given that the credit is out of the mix, I'm hoping that we will see more stable sales numbers in coming months, but I'll keep you informed whichever way it goes. As always, if you have any metro area real estate questions don't hesitate to give me a call at 503-453-6156.

OPEN HOUSE Sunday 15th Aug 1p-4p

2010-08-15T00:31:00.001-07:00

Just Listed - Clinton St Fourquare - $360,000

2010-08-09T23:02:00.000-07:00

This Clinton Street foursquare offers abundant space in a tranquil setting.
The location has a walk score of 91, and sits on a recognized bike friendly street. You are just blocks to Clinton/ Division shopping and restaurants. The western
exposure helps to take advantage of the light shining through original picture
windows. The charming traditional entry welcomes you, and the archways connect you to the large living room with wood burning stove. The dining room features original built-ins, and the spacious kitchen awaits your personal updates. The main floor has beautiful oak floors throughout. The sun room with tile floors connects you to the first of two side yards. Lush organic landscape with a deck and built in bench provides space to enjoy the late day sun. The east side with patio off the kitchen is ideal for morning coffee.
Contact me to take a look at this wonderful home and you won’t be disappointed!

3 bedroom
2 bathrooms
2416 square feet
unfinished basement
sunroom
mls #10065208

Elena MacPhee
Owner | Principal Broker | EcoBroker
"Superior service is the difference"

Rose City Realtors
Mobile: 503.453.6156
www.rosecityrealtors.com

6th Annual Pirate Party for Kids & Families

2010-07-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

This sounds like a fun day.

Aye, Matey! Yarrrr Invited!
6th Annual Pirate Party for Kids & Families
Sunday, July 25 at Sellwood Park

Treasure Island Carnival of Fun! 2:00-5:00pm
Free Climbing Wall 3:00-5:00pm
Free Capt. Bogg & Salty Concert- 6:00pm
Free Movie in The Park (Just before dark)
Alvin and the Chipmuncks, The Squeakquel
Pirate’s Plunder Cafe- 2:00-5:30pm

Farmers Market by day of the week - Friday

2010-07-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

Friday: (It’s the only one that I know of on a Friday)

Bend
June – Mid Oct, 3pm – 7pm
2500 E Neff Rd, St Charles Medical Center
http://bendfarmersmarket.com/

Farmers Markets by day of the week - Thursday

2010-07-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

NW 23rd
June 3rd - September 30th, 3pm - 7pm
NW 23rd & Savier, located on the SE Corner
Portland Farmers Market - Thursday

Buckman
May 6th - September 30th, 3pm - 7pm
SE 20th & Salmon between SE Belmont & Hawthorne
Hinson Baptist Church parking lot
Portland Farmers Market - Buckman

Fairview Farmers' & Artist Market
April – October, 4pm - 8pm
Fairview City Hall, 1300 Village St.
503- 407-3403
http://www.windancefarmsandart.com/

McMinnville
May 27th – October 14th, 1:30pm – 6pm
Cowls St between 2nd & 3rd
McMinnville Farmers Market

Hood River
July 3rd – October 7th, 4pm – 7pm
Hood River Middle School
Gorge Grown Food Network
http://www.gorgegrown.com/

Farmers Market by day of the week - Wednesday

2010-07-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

Shemanski Park
May 5th - October 27th, 10am - 2pm
Shemanski Park between SW Salmon & Main
Portland Farmers Market - Wednesday

People's Farmers Market (Portland)
Year-round market, 2pm – 7pm
3029 SE 21st Avenue,
one block north of Powell Blvd.
503. 232.9051
www.peoples.coop

Intersate
Mid May - September, 3pm - 7pm
Overlook Park at N Freemont & Interstate
971.344.0115
www.interstatefarmersmarket.com

Moreland
May 12th - September 29th, 3:30pm - 7:30pm
SE Bybee & 14th
503.341.9350
www.morelandfarmersmarket.org

Beaverton
Mid June – August, 3pm – 6pm
Hall Blvd., between 3rd& 5th Sts
(503) 643-5345
www.beavertonfarmersmarket.com

Forest Grove & Adelante Mujeres Farmers Market
Mid May - Mid October, 4pm – 8pm
21st Avenue, between College & Main
503.992.0078
http://adelantemujeres.org/farmersmarket.html

June 2010 Market Action Report - Inventory

2010-07-20T14:45:00.000-07:00

Farmers Markets by day of the week - Tuesday

2010-07-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hillsboro Tuesday Marketplace
Mid June – August, 5pm – 8:30pm
Courthouse Square
Main St., 1st to 3rd Ave.
503.844.6685
www.hillsboromarkets.org

Lloyd Farmers Market (Portland)
June – September, 10am – 2pm
NE Holladay St. Between 7th and 9th
503.730.8367
http://lloydfarmersmkt.net

OHSU Farmers Market (Portland)
Mid May - Mid October, 11:30am – 3:30pm
OHSU Auditorium Courtyard (near the fountain).
503.494.8792
www.ohsu.edu/farmersmarket

Taste of Tuesday (West Linn)
May - Mid October, 4pm – 8pm
Willamette Falls Drive between 10th & 14th St
503.449.0940
West Linn Farmers Market

Farmers Markets by day of the week - Monday

2010-07-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

Monday:
Pioneer Courthouse Square
June 21st - October 25th, 10am - 2pm
SW Broadway between SW Morrison & Yamhill
Portland Farmers Market - Monday

Farmers Market by day of week - Sunday

2010-07-18T00:13:00.000-07:00

King
May 2nd - October, 10am - 2pm
NE 7th & Wygant
503.241.0032
Portland Farmers Market - Sunday

Montavilla
June - Early October, 10am - 2pm
7600 block of SE Stark St
http://www.montabillamarket.org/

Irvington - Sullivan’s Gulch
May 23 - Nov 7, 11am – 3pm
NE 16th between Broadway & Weidler
http://www.irvingtonfarmersmarket.com/

Lents International
Mid June - Mid October, 9am - 2pm
SE 92nd & SE Foster Rd
503.621.7655
Lents Famers Market

Hillsdale
May - October, 10am - 2pm
1509 SW Sunset Blvd Suite 2E
503.475.6555
http://www.hillsdalefarmersmarket.com/

Milwaukie
Mid May - October, 9:30am - 2pm
E Main across from City Hall
503.407.0956
http://www.milwaukiefarmersmarket.com/

Clackamas Sunnyside
April - October, 11:30am - 3:30pm
13100 SE Sunnyside Rd at 132nd Ave
503.241.0032
http://www.windancefarmsandart.com/

Tigard
Mid May - October, 9am - 2pm
11831 SW Pacific Hwy
503.244.2479
http://www.tigardfarmersmarket.com/

Boring Farmer's Market
June - Early September, 10am – 3pm
Boring Station Trailhead Park
Hwy 212 and Wally Rd.
503.293.5016
http://www.boringfarmersmarket.com/

Hillsboro Farmers' Market at Orenco Station
May – October, 10am – 2pm
61st & Cornell Road
503.844.6685
http://www.hillsboromarkets.org/

Another Outdoor Movie Option, Flicks on the Brick

2010-07-17T13:00:00.000-07:00

Pioneer Courthouse Square is Portland's living room.
So pull up a chair, lay out a blanket sit back and enjoy a free movie.

Pre movie music starts at 7pm and the movie begins at dusk.

Here's the 2010 Summer schedule for Flicks on the Bricks.

July 23rd: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
July 30th: Three Amigos
August 6th: Sixteen Candles
August 13th: The Muppets Take Manhattan
August 20th: Jaws

More information can be found:
http://www.pioneercourthousesquare.org/calendar.shtm

Movies in the Park

2010-07-17T12:52:00.000-07:00

Movies in the park is such a great way to enjoy summer.
Play in the park, pack a picnic dinner, grab a bag of popcorn and enjoy a movie.

Pre-movie entertainment begins at 6:30 PM - Movies begin at dark

FRI July 16 Star Trek (2009)
The River City Band Brentwood Park

SAT July 17 Fantastic Mr. Fox
The River City Band Dickinson Park

SAT July 17 Transformers (2007)
Rock climbing wall Ed Benedict Park

SUN July 18 Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
Ed Benedict Park

FRI July 23 Fantastic Mr. Fox
The Cat Jugglers Irving Park

SAT July 24 Avatar
The River City Band Wilkes Park

SAT July 24 Come Together Home (documentary) Lone Fir Cemetery

SUN July 25 Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel
Captain Bogg & Salty Sellwood Park

THU July 29 Shrek II

Columbia Park

FRI July 30 Pretty in Pink
The Sounds of Norman Colonel Summers Park

SAT July 31 Guys and Dolls (1955)
The Working Stiffs, rock climbing wall Laurelhurst Park

SUN Aug 1 Avatar
The Working Stiffs, The River City Band, Portland Teen Idols Sellwood Park

TUE Aug 3 Shorts
The River City Band Glenfair Park

WED Aug 4 Shorts
The Sounds of Norman Gilbert Heights Park

THU Aug 5 Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel
The River City Trio, The Sounds of Rayvis (Elvis) Woodstock Park

FRI Aug 6 The Princess Bride
The Sounds of Norman, rock climbing wall Mt Scott Park

FRI Aug 6 The Dark Knight (Batman)
Multnomah Arts Center

SAT Aug 7 Nim's Island
The River City Band, rock climbing wall Dickinson Park

SUN Aug 8 Fantastic Mr. Fox
The River City Band King School Park

FRI Aug 13 Deathbowl to Downtown: The Evolution of Skateboarding in New York City
The Cat Jugglers, rock climbing wall Glenhaven Park

FRI Aug 13 Planet 51
The River City Band St Johns Park

SAT Aug 14 The Music Man (1962)
Mitzi Zilka and the French Café Quartet, rock climbing wall Laurelhurst Park

THU Aug 19 Alice in Wonderland (2010)
The Sounds of Norman, rock climbing wall Parklane Park

FRI Aug 20 The Princess and the Frog
The Sounds of Rayvis (Elvis), rock climbing wall Wilkes Park

FRI Aug 20 Remember the Titans
The River City Band, rock climbing wall Irving Park

SAT Aug 21 The Lost World (silent film)
Filmusik Chamber Orchestra Sewallcrest Park

SAT Aug 21 Old Dogs
The Working Stiffs Lents Park

TUE Aug 24 That’s Entertainment
The Sounds of Rayvis (Elvis) Memory Garden (Ed Benedict Park)

THU Aug 26 Alice in Wonderland (2010)
The River City Trio Hazeltine Park

FRI Aug 27 Avatar
The River City Band, Portland Teen Idols, rock climbing wall Laurelhurst Park

SAT Aug 28 The Tale of Despereaux
The River City Band, rock climbing wall Montavilla Park

THU Sept 2 The Princess and the Frog
The River City Trio, The Sounds of Rayvis (Elvis) Argay Park

FRI Sept 3 An American in Paris
Director Park

SAT Sept 4 Mama Mia!
The Working Stiffs Washington Park

FRI Sept 10 Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
Multnomah Arts Center

Find more information at Portland Parks

Farmers Market by day of week - Saturday

2010-07-16T23:53:00.000-07:00

Portland St. University
March - October, 8:30am - 2pm
SW Hall & SW Montgomery
503.241.0032
Portland Farmers Markets - PSU

St.Johns
Mid July - September, 9am - 1pm
St. Johns Plaza
503.970.9526
http://www.sjfarmersmarket.com/

Hollywood Famer's Market
May - November 8am - 1pm
NE Hancock between 44th & 45th
503.709.7403
http://www.hollywoodfarmersmarket.org/

Parkrose
May - October, 8am - 2pm
NE 122nd St & NE Shaver St
503.890.7152
http://www.parkrosefarmersmarket.org/

Cedar Mill/ Sunset
End of May - Mid October, 8am - 1pm
NW Cornell Rd, 1block W of Murray
503.913.7733
http://www.cmfmarket.org/

Beaverton
Mid May - October, 8am - 1:30pm
hall Blvd. between 3rd & 5th St
503.643.5345
http://www.beavertonfarmersmarket.com/

Oregon City
May - October, 9am - 2pm
Clackamas County Public Service Parking Lot.
2051 Kaen Rd at Beavercreek
503.734.0192
http://www.orcityfarmersmarket.com/

Sherwood
May - September, 9am - 1pm
Pine St between 1st & Railroad
503.682.1604
http://sherwoodmarket.blogspot.com/

Hillsboro
May - December, 8am - 1:30pm
Courthouse Square, 2nd & E Main
503.844.6685
http://www.hillsboromarkets.org/

Lake Oswego
Mid May - Mid October, 8:30am - 1:30pm
Millennium Park, 1st & Evergreen
503.697.6590

Lake Oswego Farmers Market

Canby
Mid May - Mid October, 9am - 1pm
1st Ave at Holly St
503.263.5151
canbysaturdaymarket@canby.com

Troutdale Farmers' and Artists' Market
April – October, 10am – 3pm
551 E.Columbia River Highway
http://www.windancefarmsandart.com/

Gresham
May - October, 8:30am - 2pm
Miller St between 2nd & 3rd
503.341.4153
http://www.greshamfarmersmarket.com/

Estacada
May – October, 9pm – 3pm
3rd & Broadway St
(503) 630-4490
http://www.estacadafarmersmarket.4t.com/

Rainier Marina Market
Saturdays, 9:30 - 4:00
May - Mid December
115 East "A" Street, next to Bank of America
http://www.rainier97048.org/

Scappoose Community Farmers' Market
Mid May - Mid October, 9am – 2pm
2nd & E. Columbia Ave
http://www.scappoosefarmermarket.com/

Oregon's Heat Smart Program – Required Removal of an Uncertified Woodstove Upon Home Sale

2010-07-03T21:00:00.000-07:00

Information from: Oregon Deparment of Environmental Quality

The 2009 Oregon Legislature signed Senate Bill 102 into law requiring the removal of any uncertified woodstove from a home when it is sold. This bill is part of a program to help protect Oregonians from uncontrolled wood smoke. Residential wood burning is a significant source of air pollution, including fine particulate and air toxics.

Beginning August 1, 2010, if you are selling a home with an uncertified woodstove, you will be required to remove this device from the home.

Residents of Deschutes County, Jackson County, Klamath County, the town of Lakeview, and the cities of Bend and Medford currently have regulations that require homeowners to remove a non-certified solid fuel heating device when a home is sold. If you are a resident of these areas, please check with your local agency to determine what requirements apply to you.

Oregon Zoo 2010 Summer Concerts

2010-06-07T15:02:00.000-07:00

Summer Fun:
Oregon Zoo 2010 Summer Concerts

Here’s a quick look at the Zoo Concerts, the setting is wonderful open air general admission venue.
All concerts start at 7pm but, seating opens at 5pm
If you can, make time to see one of these artists, buy tickets at the Zoo or through Ticketmaster

June
25 – Jewel with Radney Foster

July
2 – Femi Kuti & the Positive Force
7 – Carolina Chocolate Drops and Konono No1
14 – Caravan Palace
21 – Bassekou Kouyate
23 – jimmy Cliff with Trevor Hall
25 – Jamie Cullum
28 – Great Big Sea

August
4 – Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys
8 – The Levon Helm Band with Joe Pug
13 – The B-52s
14 – Chris Isaak
18 – The Quebe Sisters Band
20 – The Swell Season with Black Francis
26 & 27 – Pink Martini
28 – A Prairie Home Companion

September
1 Cyndi Lauper Memphis Blues Tour

More information on Oregon Zoo

Open Saturday 1p-4p | Modern Ranch

2010-06-04T20:37:00.001-07:00

OPEN Sunday 23 May 1p-4p

2010-05-21T10:02:00.000-07:00

Stylish Starter Home

This Glendoveer cottage has been lovingly remodeled. The open floor plan helps to take advantage of the light shining through the new windows, it has new flooring and a newer roof. The stainless steel appliances in the kitchen are included. Step outside into the oversized lot and it's a few short steps to the 420 sq ft shop that has a gas line and separate water heater, more than enough room for your projects and storage. The yard is fully fenced and has mature trees. This would make a great home for a 1st time buyer or someone looking for a condo alternative .

1 bedroom
1 bathroom
578 square feet
air conditioning
bonus 420 sf shop
mls #10040338

Contact me to take a look at this wonderful home and you won’t be disappointed!

Open House Saturday May 8th 1p-4p

2010-05-05T12:55:00.001-07:00

Stylish Starter Home

2010-04-20T02:26:00.001-07:00

Modern Ranch located at the base of Powell Butte

2010-04-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

Portland Farmers Markets

2010-03-23T14:01:00.000-07:00

One of the many things that is great about Portland is the Farmers Markets.
You can find them starting up for the season, starting with

Portland Farmers Market at PSU
Open March 20th - December 18th
From 830a-2p thru October then November & December it's from 9a-2p.

Located in the South Park Blocks, it's just steps away from the Portland Street CarTriMet: Portland Streetcar Service

and just a few blocks from the Green & Yellow MAX Lines

TriMet: MAX Light Rail Service

It's offical location is at Portland State University in the South Park Blocks between SW Hall & SW Montgomery. You can find out more about the market & the venders here:Portland Farmers Market > Experience the Saturday Market at PSU

price reduction on this classic home

2010-01-05T21:35:00.000-08:00

Just the facts

2010-01-05T12:15:00.000-08:00

I enjoy reading 'creative' real estate postings as much as anyone (who knew 'cozy' could have so many meanings ;), but sometimes getting just the facts is all I or my buyers really want about a particular property. If the property you are wondering about is in Multnomah County, this is a great resource:
www.PortlandMaps.com

I use this site regularly and recommend it to my buyers and sellers for unbiased facts. It has info about schools, parks, taxes & lot specifics. It's also a useful resource to find out if that new electrical or plumbing project actually got the appropriate permits. If you really want to drill down, you can get census information, crime statistics, area businesses info & transportation details.

Now this site does have one glaring omission...meth labs. Seriously, I hope 'meth lab' is not the first thing that comes to mind when you are thingking about buying a house, but it is something that is more prevelant that most people imagine. Thanks to the DEA, you can now see a list homes they call "Clandestine Laboratories"
http://www.justice.gov/dea/seizures/index.html

Remember Oregon is a 'buyer beware' type of state. The sales agreement has a full section on the fact you are buying the home in an 'AS IS' condition. It is your responsibility (hopefully with the appropriate advice of your Realtor!), to research your potential home. The inspection is part of that research. The homes history should be too.

Give me a call if you have any questions, 503 453 6156.

May 2010 find you happy and healthy!

PDX Plan

2009-11-13T13:04:00.000-08:00

A city is only as good as its last plan. And our last one brought to life some of the very thins we admire most about our city. It laid the groundwork for one of the best transportation infrastructures in the country and enabled us to develop a vibrant central city. That was 1980. And almost 50% of us weren't even here then.

Get involved. This is your chance to help define our priorities, guide our investments and actually set the course for our city. Please join us a t a workshop listed below, or answer some questions online at PDXPland.com

Tues, 11/17 630p to 900p Beaumont Middle School, 4043 NE Fremont St
Thur, 11/19 630p to 900p David Douglas High School, 1001 SE 135th Ave
Tues, 12/1 630p to 900p St Johns Community Center, 8427 N Central St
Thur, 12/3 800a to 930a World Trade Center, 121 SW Salmon St
Sat, 12/5 1000a to 1230p Mt Scott Community Center, 5530 SE 72nd Ave
Mon, 12/7 630p to 900p Wilson High School, 1151 SW Vermont St
Tues, 12/15 630p to 900p University of Oregon - Old Town, 70 NW Couch St

or visit
www.pdxplan.com
Twitter: @pdxplan, #pdxplan
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pdxplan

(Info Source: The City of Portland, mailer & www.pdxplan.com)

Tax Credit: Extend & Expand

2009-11-13T12:53:00.000-08:00

Tax Credits Provide Outstanding Opportunities for Home Buyers
The Worker, Homeownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009 has extended the tax credit of up to $8,000 for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence. It also authorized a tax credit of up to $6,500 for qualified repeat home buyers.

Frequently asked questions about the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit.

Frequently asked questions about the $6,500 tax credit for repeat home buyers.

You can continue to stay informed of future home buyer information by joining us on the following social media sites.

(Info Sorce: http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/)

Open House Sunday 8 November 1p - 4p

2009-11-08T01:20:00.000-08:00

The curtains make my backyard look big

2009-10-02T13:13:00.000-07:00

I just read this interesting artical by Mike Swain at Science, Health & the Enviroment.
It makes me wonder what my house would say.

House that twitters is home of the future

By Mike Swain on Sep 8, 09 04:52 PM in Environment

Scientist Dr Andy Stanford-Clark reckons he has cut his electric bills by a third by wirelessing up his house to Twitter.
He has "twenty to thirty" sensors dotted around his 16th century thatched cottage on the Isle of Wight telling him all kinds of information such as if he's left the lights on or a window open.
He has linked the system onto Twitter which can send him messages about how much water he is using or when he has used £5 of electricity
He even has a globe which glows red, amber or green depending on how much energy he's using so if it is glowing red when he goes to bed he knows he's left something on.

Read more at:
http://blogs.mirror.co.uk/science/2009/09/house-that-twitters-is-home-of.html

SE Uplift Photo Contest

2009-09-29T16:47:00.000-07:00

SE Uplift Photo Contest
Southeast Uplift is looking for your best shot - pictures of the people and places that make our communities hum.

Here’s what you need to know.

The contest is open to anyone who lives, works or visits places within the SE Uplift Coalition boundaries.
Photos must be taken within the SE Uplift Coaltion boundaries and relate to the neighborhood.
Photos must be the original works of the entrant.
Winners will be printed, framed and displayed permanently at SE Uplift.
Visit contest rules for complete details.

See story at: http://www.southeastuplift.org/whats_happening/news

Contest Rules: http://www.southeastuplift.org/content/contest_rules

Boundaries:
http://www.southeastuplift.org/our_neighborhoods

Good Luck!

New Listing - University Park Custom Home

2009-09-08T12:19:00.000-07:00

OK So it's not Portland but.... This guy could fit right in.

2009-09-02T21:28:00.000-07:00

Now and again I run across something so fun or funny I just want to share it.
Here's one I found on Twitter.

Seems Justin is living with his 73-year-old dad and tweets things his dad says.
Warning on the language but, fun all the same.

I've enjoyed what he has to say so far and look forward to hearing what's said next.

Enjoy

http://twitter.com/shitmydadsays

First-Time Buyer Tax Credit Expires Nov 30th, For Now....

2009-09-01T00:43:00.000-07:00

For the most part I think buyers should keep in mind the extension has NOT passed.

If you are looking to take advantage of the tax credit, just plan on closing before November 30th.

____________________

Source: Washington Post Writers Group, Kenneth R. Harney (08/22/2009)

First-Time Buyer Tax Credit Extension Possible Bills to extend the maximum $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers, which expires Nov. 30, are pending in both the U.S. House and the Senate.

Sen. Christopher J. Dodd, a Connecticut Democrat and chairman of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, is co-sponsor of a bill with Georgia Republican Sen. Johnny Isakson that would raise the credit amount to a maximum of $15,000.

Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid of Nevada favors an extension of the current credit.

He was quoted by the Las Vegas Sun saying, "It's something we can get done."

Odds are that the credit will be extended and broadened to cover all buyers next year, but the chances of the amount increasing aren’t as good, observers say.

New Truth in Lending Rules Start 30 July 2009

2009-07-29T23:10:00.000-07:00

If your buying a home or selling for that matter.
You should be aware of the new Truth in Lending Rules that start at the end of July
(Click on the title link to read the full 17 page section of the Federal Register)

Realtor.org published the follow:
NOTE: Remember these rules only apply to loan applications filed on or after July 30,2009. There is some talk that the closing of a home will be affected by the new rules. Really only time will tell but, I can't imagine closings getting any more delayed then they are right now with the HVCC rules on appraisals.

Revised TILA Disclosure Requirements Take Effect on July 30, 2009
Lenders will be subject to new disclosure requirements for mortgage loans under the
Federal Reserve Board Truth in Lending Regulation (Reg Z).
The new requirements apply to loan applications filed on or after July 30, 2009 (about two
months earlier than originally planned).
The new rules are complex and compliance will be a challenge for lenders.
REALTORS® will want to learn the basics so they can advise clients of potential delays and
the new procedures. Here are key highlights of the changes:
• The new requirements apply to all mortgages secured by a borrower’s home, including
primary and second homes and refinancings. Investor loans continue to be exempt.
• Lenders must give good faith estimates of mortgage loan costs within 3 business days
after the consumer applies for a loan (early disclosure). The lender may not collect any
fees before the disclosure is provided, except for a reasonable fee for obtaining a credit
report.
• The closing may not take place until expiration of a 7 day waiting period after the
consumer receives the early disclosure.
• Consumers may shorten or waive the 3‐day and/or 7‐day waiting periods for a “bona
fide personal financial emergency,” but only after receiving an accurate TILA disclosure.
In the final rule’s preamble, the Fed stated that it “believes waivers should not be used
routinely to expedite consummation for reasons of convenience.” The Fed decided not
to insulate lenders from liability even where a consumer modifies or waives the waiting
periods.
• If the annual percentage rate (APR) changes by more than 0.125 percent, the lender
must provide a corrected disclosure to the borrower and wait an additional 3 business
days before closing the loan. The APR includes not only the interest rate on the loan but
certain other costs related to settlement, so it will be important for any fees that affect
the APR to be as accurate as possible, as early as possible, to minimize the need for a
corrected TILA disclosure. - Realtor.org (http://www.realtor.org/RMODaily.nsf/files/RegZ.pdf/$FILE/RegZ.pdf)

Movies in the Park

2009-07-18T00:19:00.001-07:00

Summer is by far the best time to be in Portland. There are so many things happening it's hard to keep up. The Portland Park Department has already started the Movies in the Park series for this summer. But it's not too late to enjoy a free movie under the stars. And there are some good one's coming up. Enjoy at your local park or get to know a new park close by. (click on the link for a Full Events Calendar)

DATE MOVIE / PARK

SAT July 18

Journey to the Center of the Earth in 3D

Dickinson Park

WED July 22

Hairspray

McCoy Park

THU July 23

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

Holly Farm Park

FRI July 24

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa

Brentwood Park

SAT July 25

Dirty Dancing

Colonel Summers Park

MON July 27

Singin’ in the Rain

Laurelhurst Park

WED July 29

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (in Spanish, subtitled in English)

Fernhill Park

THU July 30

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (subtitled for those with hearing disabilities)

Argay Park

FRI July 31

Zathura: A Space Adventure

Cathedral Park

FRI July 31

Kung Fu Panda

Kenilworth Park

SAT Aug 1

Shrek

Earl Boyles Park

SUN Aug 2

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

Sellwood Park

TUE Aug 4

Charlotte’s Web

Glenfair Park

THU Aug 6

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

Brooklyn Park

FRI Aug 7

Hairspray

Willamette Park

FRI Aug 7

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

Multnomah Arts Center

SAT Aug 8

Coraline

Dickinson Park

MON Aug 10

Casablanca

Laurelhurst Park

THU Aug 13

Hotel for Dogs

Grant Park

FRI Aug 14

The Wizard of Oz

Laurelhurst Park

FRI Aug 14

The Tale of Despereaux

St Johns Park

SAT Aug 15

School of Rock

Sewallcrest Park

SAT Aug 15

Iron Man

Lents Park

WED Aug 19

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

McCoy Park

THU Aug 20

High School Music 3: Senior Year (subtitled for those with hearing disabilities)
Parklane Park

FRI Aug 21

Iron Man

Irving Park

SAT Aug 22

Blue Hawaii (Salute to Elvis)

Washington Park

WED Aug 26

The Longshots

Peninsula Park

WED Aug 26

One Night in Frogtown

Sellwood Park

THU Aug 27

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl

Hazeltine Park

FRI Aug 28

Mamma Mia! (Sing Along)

Washington Park

SAT Aug 29

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

Laurelhurst Park

TUE Sept 1

Casablanca

DeNorval Unthank Park

FRI Sept 11

The Neverending Story

Multnomah Arts Center

Warm Fuzzies

2009-07-16T21:59:00.000-07:00

I ran across these wonderful creations and LOVE them!
Yes it's knit, Yes it's gloves, wraps & scarves. Yes it's hot here right now but it never stays this way. She's local and her stuff is so cute I just had to share.

Did I mention the hand bags...I've gotta make room in my closet!

How about a sale "Christmas In July"?
Check it out, be fun and fashionable!

Cofygirl
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=100719

Farmers' Markets

2009-06-25T23:26:00.000-07:00

Farmers' Market's I Love them, here are a few in the area you should check out.

Hollywood Farmers’ Market
NE Hancock /44th & 45th
May - Oct
Sat: 8am - 1pm

Interstate Farmers’ Market
Overlook Pk N Fremont/Interstate
Mid May - Sept
Wed: 3pm - 7pm

Lents Farmers’ Market
SE 92nd & SE Foster Rd
Mid June - Mid Oct
Sun: 9am - 2pm

Lloyd Farmers’ Market
NE Holladay St /7th & 9th
June - Sept
Tue: 10am - 2pm

Montavilla Farmers’ Market
7600 block SE Stark St
June - Early Oct
Sun: 10am - 2pm

Moreland Farmers’ Market
SE Bybee & 14th St
Mid May - Sept
Wed: 3:30pm - 7:30pm

Parkrose Farmers’ Market
NE 122nd & Shaver St
May - Oct
Sat: 8am - 2pm

People’s Farmers’ Market
3029 SE 21st Ave
Year-round market
Wed: 2pm - 7pm

Portland Eastbank Market
SE 20th & Salmon
Mid May - Sept
Thurs: 3:30pm - 7:30pm

Portland Farmers’ Market
South Park Blocks
Apr - Oct
Sat: 8:30am - 2pm

PDX Farmers’ Market Downtown
SW Salmon & Park
May - Oct
Wed: 10am - 2pm

PDX Farmers’ Market EcoTrust
NW 10th / Irving & Johnson
June - Sept
Thurs: 3:30pm - 7:30pm

Milwaukie Sunday Market
SE Main across from City Hall
Mid May - Oct
Sun: 9:30am - 2pm

Clackamas/Sunnyside Grange
132nd SE Sunnyside Rd
April - Oct
Sun: 11:30am - 3:30pm

Oregon City Farmers’ Market
2051 Kaen Rd at Beavercreek Rd
May - Oct
Sat: 9am - 2pm

Estacada Farmers’ Market
3rd & Broadway
May - Oct
Sat: 9am - 3pm
Fairview Farmers’ & Artists Mkt
Fairview City Hall 1300 Village St
April - Oct
Thurs: 4pm - 8pm

Gresham Farmers’ Market
Miller St between 2nd & 3rd
May - Oct
Sat: 8:30am - 2pm

Canby Saturday Market
1st Ave at Holly Street
Mid May - Mid Oct
Sat: 9am - 1pm

Boring Farmers’ Market
Boring Station/Trailhead Park
June - Early Sept
Sun: 10am - 3pm

Beaverton Farmers’ Market
Hall Blvd between 3rd & 5th Sts
Mid May - October
Sat 8am - 1:30pm

Beaverton Wed Farmers’ Market
Hall Blvd between 3rd & 5th Sts
Mid June - August
Wed 3pm - 6pm

Cedar Mills/Sunset Farmers’ Market
NW Cornell, 1 Blk W of Murray
End of May - Mid Oct
Sat 8am - 1pm

Forest Grove/Adelante Mujeres
21st Ave between College & Main
Mid May - Mid Oct
Wed 4pm - 8pm

Hillsboro Farmers’ Market
Courthouse Sq, 2nd & East Main
May - December
Sat 8am - 1:30pm

Hillsboro Tue Marketplace
Main St, 1st to 3rd Ave
Mid June - August
Tues 5pm - 8:30pm

Hillsboro Market @ Orenco Station
61st & Cornell Rd
May - Oct
Sun 10am - 2pm

Lake Oswego Farmers’ Market
Millennium Park, 1st & Evergreen
Mid May - Mid Oct
Sat 8:30am - 1:30pm
Hillsdale Farmers’ Market
SW Sunset Rd & Capital Hwy
May - Oct
Sun 10am - 2pm

Zoo Tunes

2009-06-24T02:33:00.000-07:00

Thought this Zoo Concert info was good.
I'm thinking the Tears for Fears would be a good one to go to with some friends.

Zoo Tunes Wednesday Concerts
Shows Start at 7:00 p.m. ($10.50 General Admission)
June 17th - Femi Kuti and The Positive Force
June 24th - Sly & Robbie and the Taxi Gang
July 1st - The 234th Army Band
July 8th - TBA
July 15th - Vieux Farka Toure
July 22nd - Riders in the Sky
July 29th - Orchestra Baobab
August 5th - The Wailers
August 12th - Jonatha Brooke
August 19th - Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca
ZOOBEAT Premium Concerts - Shows Start at 7:00 p.m.
June 19th - The B-52s $27
July 11th - Tears for Fears with Wainright $22
July 17th - Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Los Lobos $22
July 24th - Indigo Girls with David Ryan Harris $19
July 31st - Jewel $22.50
August 14th - Joan Baez $22
August 21st - Susan Tedeschi with JJ Gray & Mofro $22
August 28th - Amos Lee $19

Five States That Will Lead US Out of Recession

2009-06-07T22:14:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, 3 Jun 2009

Five States That Will Lead US Out of Recession

Posted By:Cindy Perman

Topics:Employment Recession Economy (U.S.) Wall Street
Sectors:Technology

If you’re not prepared to go to Australia to ride out the recovery, great news! A new report shows the five U.S. states poised to lead the nation out of recession.

You might want to get out your hiking boots and trail mix because most of the states are out in the northwest: Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Texas and Washington.

Those are the states where job growth is expected to sprout first — in the fourth quarter of this year — according to Moody’s Economy.com, which conducted the survey.

Read More Here:
http://www.cnbc.com/id/31086859

Forbes Ranks Portland, 7th of America's Fittest Cities

2009-05-31T21:46:00.000-07:00

Health Lists & Rankings
America's Fittest Cities
Rebecca Ruiz, 05.26.09
A new report looks at 30 different measures to determine which cities' residents are healthiest.

In Depth: America's Fittest Cities When it comes to healthy living, Washington, D.C., is seldom mentioned in the same breath as cities like San Francisco, Portland, Ore., and Seattle, all of which are known for their active, health-conscious residents.

But according to a new report, the city of pomp and politics is the healthiest in the nation. In the second annual American Fitness Index (AFI), a publication released by the American College of Sports Medicine, Washington, D.C., edged out Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minn., Denver, Boston and San Francisco.

Read More Here: http://tiny.cc/6FXA7

HUD Secretary Announces Monetization of Tax Credit at NAR Real Estate Summit

2009-05-14T21:55:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON, May 12, 2009

Shaun Donovan, secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, said that the

Federal Housing Administration is going to permit its lenders to allow homeowners to use the $8,000 tax credit as a downpayment.

Donovan’s remarks came in an address to several thousand Realtors® gathered this morning at The Real Estate Summit: Advancing the U.S. Economy, a special daylong session at the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo here.

Secretary Donovan said that important changes, which the National Association of Realtors® has been calling for, will help consumers purchase a home. “We all want to enable FHA consumers to access the home buyer tax credit funds when they close on their home loans so that the cash can be used as a downpayment,” Donovan said. According to Donovan, the FHA’s approved lenders will be permitted to “monetize” the tax credit through short-term bridge loans. This will allow eligible home buyers to access the funds immediately at the closing table.

READ THE FULL ARTICAL HERE:
http://tiny.cc/nJ6wP

Classic Craftsman

2009-05-08T00:03:00.000-07:00

Buy Local Tip: Guitar Enthusiasts meet your new Love

2009-04-26T12:57:00.000-07:00

Some time back I meet a great guy named Jiri Fercak, he’s a carpenter and makes great cabinets.
I loved his work so I had him build some cabinets for me. I’ve referred him to friends and they too love his work.

Now I come to find Jiri embarking on, what I will call a True Calling, Passion Project, Art...
The art of making beautiful guitars. Jiri is an artist and his work is AMAZING.

Here are a few pictures.

His site has a slide show and will be more content over the next few weeks so keep checking in.

I know it’s just a matter of time before I can say “I knew him when”

Best to you Jiri.

http://www.fercak.com

Portland how I love thee

2009-04-25T00:02:00.000-07:00

So I was recently ask to send a postcard to one of my cousins for a school project. The postcard was to be from family members, it should be from the city they live in and if they could include a note about the city, weather or things they like about their city.
I was able to find a great locale artist (www.redbatpress.com) that made postcards of the all the bridges, one of my favorite things about Portland.
Here's what I added to the back before mailing it off. I had a great time helping with this project, Thank you Michael....

PORTLAND:
Parks, largest urban park in U.S.
Ozone-friendly, recycling and alternative energy leader
Rivers and Bridges, 10 bridges over the rivers
Transportation, best mass transit system and only platinum rated bicycling city in U.S.
Leafy, trees, trees everywhere!
Affable, friendly and outgoing people
Novel, as in it's a unique place -and- we are voracious readers :)
Dining, world class cuisine and renowned local beverages (I wanted to put beer, wine and coffee, but this is an elementary school project)

Tell me what city you live in and what you like about it.

ZIP Codes Where Housing Sales Are Increasing

2009-04-21T22:47:00.000-07:00

Housing sales are improving significantly in key ZIP codes around the country where prices have moderated, according to information compiled for BusinessWeek.com by First American CoreLogic.

ZIP codes in California, Florida, Arizona and Nevada dominated the list, but there were also ZIP codes on the top 25 most-improved sales list from the suburbs around Detroit and Minneapolis and in the metro areas of Atlanta and Chicago.

Inventories are shrinking and prices are stabilizing in several markets, according to the survey. Here are the top 10 ZIP codes with improved home sales:

94533, Fairfield, Calif. (Fresno)
92376, Rialto, Calif. (Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario)
91342, Slymar, Calif. (Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana)
92126, San Diego, Calif.
33914, Cape Coral, Fla. (Fort Meyers)
93065, Simi Valley, Calif. (Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura)
95123, San Jose, Calif.
85379, Surprise, Ariz. (Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale)
93722, Fresno, Calif. (Madera)
95624, Elks Grove, Calif. (Sacramento-Arden-Arcade-Roseville)

Source: BusinessWeek.com, Prashant Gopal (03/05/2009)

Tax credit made easy

2009-04-21T22:05:00.000-07:00

I recently found a flyer that was put out by the Illinois Association of Realtors.
It laid out tax credit in an easy to understand fashion, with bullett points.
Here's how it read:

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of
2009 features an $8,000 tax credit for first-time
buyers who purchase a home on or after Jan. 1, 2009
and before Dec. 1, 2009.

Details of the tax credit include:

* The temporary credit is only available for
home purchases made from Jan. 1, 2009 to before
Dec. 1, 2009 and is equal to 10 percent of
the cost of the home, up to a maximum credit
of $8,000. (For example, a home purchased for
$80,000 or more would qualify for the full $8,000
credit while a $70,000 home would only qualify
for 10 percent, or $7,000)

*Buyers claim the credit on their federal tax return
to reduce their tax liability. If the credit is
more than their total tax liability that year, the
buyer will get a refund check for the balance.

*Only first-time homebuyers can take advantage
of the tax credit. A first-time buyer is defined
under the tax credit as an individual who has
not owned a home in the last three years.
For married joint filers, both must
meet the first-time
homebuyer test
to take the credit
on a joint return.

*Eligible properties include anything that will be
used as a principal single-family residence—including
condos and townhouses.

*There are income guidelines on the credit. Individuals
with an adjusted gross income up to
$75,000 (or $150,000 if filing jointly) are eligible
for the full tax credit. The credit is phased
down for those earning more and is not available
for those with an income above $95,000
(or $170,000 if filing jointly).

*The new tax credit does not have to be repaid
if the buyer stays in the home at least three
years. But if the home is sold before that, the
entire amount of the credit is recaptured on
the sale.

*People who purchased homes under the 2008
$7,500 tax credit program will still be required
to repay that credit to the government over a
15-year period.

Consult with your tax advisor to learn more about the tax credit

Just Listed - 4131 SE Grant St, Portland OR

2009-04-17T22:53:00.000-07:00

Just Listed - 1814 NE 19th Gresham OR - $113,900

2009-04-08T20:44:00.000-07:00

Why we LOVE Portland

2009-04-03T00:50:00.000-07:00

So I found some old 'Best of' I thought were nice to see.
I did a quick check and added a few new ones.
Feel free to add any you know of, I'm sure there are so much more.
How can you not LOVE Portland.
________________________________________________________________________________

* Most Courteous Drivers in the Country., Auto-Vantage, Norwalk, Conn
* #1 Bike Commuting city in the Country., U.S.Census Bureau, 2005 commuting data
* #1 City for Sustainability., SustainLane 2006 & 2008 US City Rankings
* Best City for Seniors., Sperling's Best Places
* Best Eating Destination., 2007 Food Network Awards
* #1 City for Walking., About.com: Walking, 2006 #4 in 2005
* #1 City for Innovation., SustainLane, 2006 tied with Sacramento and Seattle, 2008 tied
* #1 City for Energy/Climate Change Policy., SustainLane 2006 & 2008 tied with San Francisco and Seattle
* #1 "Green" Economy City., SustainLane, 2006 & 2008
* #2 "Green" (LEED Certified Buildings) city in America., SustainLane 2006 & 2008 US City Rankings
* #2 City for Tap Water Quality., SusainLane 2006 & 2008
* #1 City for Knowledge Base., SustainLane 2006 & 2008, tied.
* #2 Fiscally Fit City (citizens' financial fitness)., Sperling's Best Places
* Best Domestic Airport., Conde Nast Business Travel Awards, 2006
* #4 Most Liveable City in the Country., Pittsburgh Tribune-Review 2007
* In the Top 10 Most Literate cities in the Country., Study by Dr. John W.Miller, Central Connecticut State University
* Most bike-friendly major city in the U.S., League of American Bicyclists
* #1 Access to the Outdoors., Travel&Leisure
* Best Place to have a baby., FitPregancy 2008, #4 in 2007
* Greenest city in the USA., Popular Science 2008
* #4 Best Housing Market in the US., Forbes 2009

Welcome

2009-04-03T00:39:00.000-07:00

Hello to you.
I will tell you I'm not much of a 'wordsmith'.
I'm much more of a reader.
I will from time to time key in on real estate information I think you should know or about a 'great find' or fun fact about the city I love, Portland.
But for the most part I will post Real Estate related articles and facts that I find helpful. I of course will tell you were I found it. Feel free to ask questions or post comments. I'd love to hear from you.
Oh, Please the Golden Rule a good one, let's stick to it here.

If you already know what a great city Portland is drop me a note on your favorite part of the life here. If you have yet to find out, let me have the pleasure of introducing you.

Let the Blog-venture begin!
Elena