Changes to FHA Loans & How They Might Effect YOU

Posted by kassie on Mar 27, 2013 in Community Blog | 0 comments Coming Changes to FHA Loans… SELLER CONCESSIONS What is it? Contributions that sellers kick in to help defray a buyer’s costs. They can include closing costs, inspections, appraisals and free upgrades. What’s changing? The FHA proposes slashing allowable seller concessions in half, capping them at 3 percent of the home price instead of the current 6 percent. Why? FHA analyses...
read more

Spring is Around the Corner…Time to Freshen Up your Home

Posted by kassie on Mar 8, 2013 in Community Blog | 0 comments If you’ve lived in the same home for a number of years, the decorating style of your dwelling may have become stale and boring. There are a variety of different options you can try to liven up your space. Try creating a new habitat by utilizing your imagination and following these handy tips that are sure to help you spruce up your place. Reorganize the Furniture One of the most ideal ways to...
read more

2012 London Olympics | Opening Ceremony

Posted by alison on Jul 27, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments The eyes of the world will be on London for the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games. The name of the Olympic Opening Ceremony show will be ‘Isles of Wonder’ and the worldwide broadcast will start at 7:30pm. The Ceremony will kick off with the sound of the largest harmonically tuned bell in Europe; you won’t want to miss this. The Olympic Opening and Closing Ceremonies trace...
read more

NW Natural Street of Dreams

Posted by alison on Jul 23, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments Don’t miss this year’s NW Natural Street of Dreams! With summer here, this is an annual event you won’t want to miss. Check out the GREAT DEAL at Living Social. When? July 28th – August 26th, 2012 Where? At the Vineyard | West Linn There will be 7 homes on a brand new street, featuring the best local builders and designers. Teresa’s Vineyard in West Linn is a 12-acre estate where the...
read more

Tour of Homes – Salem, Oregon

Posted by alison on Jun 21, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments Looking for inspirational ideas for your home, or just want to see new custom homes at no cost? The Home Builders Association presents the 2012 Tour of Homes in Salem, Oregon. This is a tour of 23 homes around the Salem area, from Monmouth, Keizer to South Salem. Continuing now through June 24th, this is an annual tour you don’t want to miss. All local builders design and create a home(s) for...
read more

Summer Maintenance Tips

Posted by alison on Jun 14, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments We’re finally starting to have a summer, and we definitely appreciate the sunny days! With these glorious sunny days, it’s an ideal season for getting work done around the house. Whether you’re working on your tan or cooling off indoors, take some time to perform some simple home maintenance. Interior When electricity bills rise due to outdoor temperatures, energy efficiency is a top...
read more

First Thursday Gallery Walk in Portland

Posted by alison on Jun 7, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments Have you been to the “First Thursday” Gallery Walk? Every month art galleries in downtown Portland invite you to join them for an evening of art, wine and music, the first Thursday of every month (until December). There are over 50 galleries open, and generally the hours are 6pm-9pm. Most openings taking place in the Pearl District and Old Town/China Town. Enjoy an evening walking to the...
read more

Kid’s summeR guide

Posted by joanna on Jun 1, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments   It’s hard to believe it but the kids are almost out for Summer Break! Before we know it they will be over the excitement and we all will hear…”I’m bored!” Here are some great free and affordable activities that will keep them busy and learning…   Oregon Zoo Check out the Zoo the 2nd Tuesday of the month for $4 per person. Children’s Museum 1st Friday of the month they...
read more

Memorial Day Weekend

Posted by alison on May 24, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments Memorial Day is Monday, May 28th. What are your holiday plans? There are many activities going on around the Portland area, but I think many Americans forget why we celebrate Memorial Day. It seems it­ has become less of an occasion of remembrance. Many people choose to have picnics, sports events, and family gatherings on this weekend. So why do we celebrate Memorial Day exactly? It was...
read more

meet our broKeR

Posted by joanna on Apr 27, 2012 in broKeR's | 0 comments Tom Ogden Coming from a family with a strong background in Broadcasting, Tom found his way into the radio market at a young age. He worked his way around a radio station right into a position as the Promotions and Marketing Director for well-known Radio Stations in the Portland market. With this position he created many Radio promotions that are still in force even after he left the industry. You...
read more

The Ultimate Open House

Posted by alison on Apr 25, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments This weekend kicks off the Ultimate Open House Tour, and even better yet the admission is free. The Home Builders Association of Portland creates a tour of homes in the suburbs surrounding Portland. There’s a range of styles and prices, new construction condos, town homes; including some sustainable features and options. With over 18 builders and 33 new homes, this is an event you don’t want...
read more

meet our broKeR

Posted by joanna on Apr 19, 2012 in broKeR's | 0 comments Rod Mischel   This refined professional started out his career in the world of food service as a Chef Trainer. When he is not cooking his own fine cuisine he enjoys dining at the Montage located in the Central Eastside Industrial district or enjoying Jazz music at Jimmy Mak’s. A musician himself, he is a classical pianist and now is dabbling in the art of Jazz piano. Rod’s journey to...
read more

Save the Date – NW Natural Street of Dreams 2012

Posted by alison on Apr 16, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments Don’t miss this year’s NW Natural Street of Dreams! With summer just around the corner, this is an annual event you won’t want to miss. When? July 28th – August 26th, 2012 Where? At the Vineyard | West Linn There will be 7 homes on a brand new street, featuring the best local builders and designers. Teresa’s Vineyard in West Linn is a 12-acre estate where the tour will take place. Just...
read more

Look Who’s Turning 50!

Posted by joanna on Apr 12, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments Join the Oregon Zoo in celebrating Portland’s beloved Packy’s big       5-0 birthday this Saturday! Born April 14, 1962, Packy was the first elephant born in North America in 44 years. Packy’s mother came to the Oregon Zoo from Woodland Washington where she was bread by an animal trainer named Morgan Berry. Once at the Oregon Zoo, veterinarian Dr. Matthew Mayberry carefully watched...
read more

meet our broKeR

Posted by joanna on Apr 5, 2012 in broKeR's | 0 comments Dawn Cordiner A self proclaimed “Oregon Mutt”, Dawn was born in Bend and over the years worked her way to the Portland area. As the oldest of four kids, she says she was the bossy one and her mom’s “mini-me”.  These days Dawn is a very proud mom of her almost 15 year old son Jordan. Together they share a passion for basketball. If Dawn isn’t cheering Jordan on during his games they...
read more

Egg Hunts Around Town

Posted by joanna on Apr 5, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments Hopp to it…Grab your kids, baskets and of course your rain gear! Easter is this weekend and the kids are ready to hunt eggs. There are so many great activities this weekend for families. Below are just a few great events to check out!     Code Orange Easter Egg Drop- Saturday, April 7, 2012 10:00am-Noon, Brentwood Park in SE Portland This is one that the kids will talk about for a...
read more

Wilsonville: The Leading Edge

Posted by admin on Jan 20, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments Whether you’re looking for something in the heart of the city in Downtown Wilsonville, in the up and coming area of Stafford, something close to the convenience of I-5, or something on the outskirts of the city with a little quieter pace, you can find the home you desire in Wilsonville. This city is a great place to relocate your family. Wilsonville is nestled between Portland, Oregon’s...
read more

Why Sherwood, Oregon

Posted by admin on Jan 13, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments If you love being close to Portland but want to live in a great community with a little slower pace, Sherwood is the place for you! It offers the convenience of being just miles from Portland but it provides its residents with small town charm. It’s also just a quick jaunt to Tigard, Tualatin, Lake Oswego and so much more! Sherwood’s central location makes it a great place to live outside the...
read more

Get to Know Newberg, Oregon

Posted by admin on Jan 6, 2012 in Community Blog | 0 comments Whether you’re looking for something in the heart of Downtown Newberg or just outside the city, this is a great place to call home. Newberg  is a thriving community that boasts a high quality of life and a great place to relocate your family. The old fashioned charm of Newberg is highlighted in its historic downtown area. Experience small town America, with a friendly place where locals gather...
read more

Lights Around the City

Posted by admin on Dec 21, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments As we wind down 2011, we want to wish you Happy Holidays and a very Merry Christmas! Time seems to go by fast, but hopefully this finds you well as the New Year comes around. What better way to celebrate the holiday season than with ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo. The Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with moving sculptures, forests of lighted trees and animal silhouettes. You can also hop on...
read more

Have You Seen the Big White Tents in the Pearl District?

Posted by admin on Nov 18, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments A big top circus tent has popped up in the Pearl district at NW 12th and Quimby. This once vacant land space is home to a horse powered show called, The Cavalia. The city has allowed equestrian and performing arts to come together for this neighborhood show for the holidays. The show has been in the works for over a year, and runs now through December 4th. The Cavalia tent is the largest touring...
read more

Portland – Selected as One of America’s Best Downtowns

Posted by admin on Nov 4, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Portland’s earned another big recognition from Forbes, naming our city as one of the Most Beautiful Downtowns in America. The list focused on mid-sized cities with accessible downtown areas that are perfect for tourists and residents alike, and took into account factors like attractiveness, accessibility, diversity of offerings, shops, restaurants, proximity of parks and cultural options. If...
read more

Halloween Activities Around Portland

Posted by admin on Oct 7, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Halloween Activities around Portland: Halloween is right around the corner, but do you have any plans? There are several pumpkin patches, corn maize’s, and haunted houses to get you in the holiday spirit. Whether you want to experience a thrill, or have some family fun there’s something for everyone. Check out some of the best Halloween activities around the Portland area. You’ll be sure to...
read more

Mt. Angel Oktoberfest

Posted by admin on Sep 16, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Kick off your boots and get your lederhosen on for this weekend’s Oktoberfest at Mt. Angel! You don’t want to miss Oregon’s oldest and best-loved celebration which began in 1966 as a traditional harvest festival. Enjoy traditional food and drinks, live music with over 30 musical groups, arts and crafts, Bavarian dancers, and much more! The festival continues through this weekend until...
read more

2011 Build It Green Home Tour

Posted by alison on Sep 7, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Visit the Build It Green Home Tour..Tickets Now Available Saturday September 24th (11am-5pm), will mark the 10th annual Build It Green (BIG!) Home Tour. This event allows you to view up close innovative remodeling and construction projects by local designers, homeowners, and contracting firms in the Portland Metro Area. This is a self-guided tour of 22 green remodels and new homes, so you can...
read more

School’s Right Around the Corner..

Posted by alison on Aug 19, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments With school right around the corner, children will soon be starting Elementary School, High School, or whatever the case may be – your child’s education is important. While 14% of children attend private school, the vast majority attend Public Schools. To make sure you’re aware of the different factors that differentiate one public school from another, check out Portland Monthly’s...
read more

Moving to Portland?

Posted by alison on Aug 12, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Are you planning on moving to Portland? You’re in the right place. With the Oregon Coast, Mt Hood, and Mt St Helens in close proximity, there’s plenty to do in and around the city. For those “outdoorsy” people, there are seemingly endless acres of forest for hiking, camping and fishing. You’ll find plenty of suitable destinations in the Northwest, no matter what you choose to do....
read more

Summer Maintenance Tips

Posted by alison on Aug 5, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments We have learned to appreciate our summer we’ve finally been having. With these glorious sunny days, it’s an ideal season for getting work done around the house. Whether you’re working on your tan or cooling off indoors, take some time to perform some simple home maintenance. Interior When electricity bills rise due to outdoor temperatures, energy efficiency is a top priority. Hopefully...
read more

The Street of Dreams is Here!

Posted by alison on Jul 29, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments This year’s NW Natural Street of Dreams starts next weekend, August 6th – 28th. With the sun out, it finally feels like summer. Looking ahead to warm sunny days, this is an annual event you won’t want to miss. Make your visit more entertaining by attending the annual Kick-Off event to the NW Natural Street of Dreams. Knipe Realty is proudly sponsoring the event, August 4th; 6-10pm. You can...
read more

Tunes Around the City

Posted by alison on Jul 22, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments
read more

Residential and Industrial Expansion?

Posted by alison on Jul 15, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments According to a Metro report, more than 1,000 acres south of Hillsboro and 310 acres to the city’s north are the leading candidates for expansion of the urban growth boundary this fall. The expansion in south Hillsboro would allow the city to add over 7,000 houses, apartments and condos, while the northern site would be best for industrial development. Hillsboro’s population has grown to...
read more

New Light Rail Bridge Coming to Portland

Posted by alison on Jul 8, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Construction officially began last week on a new TriMet bridge coming to Portland in 2015. After three years obtaining permits and approval from several government agencies, the transit bridge will be between South Waterfront and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. It’s hard to imagine, but in 1912 there was only a one-page application to the U.S. Department of Army to build the Steel...
read more

Happy 4th of July Weekend!

Posted by alison on Jul 1, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Happy 4th of July! What are your plans this holiday weekend? There are plenty of activities to enjoy, and with hot weather, it’s a great time to celebrate! You can check out some fun ways to enjoy your weekend from an earlier summer activities blog post. Most people in the United States celebrate the 4th of July, but do you know exactly why the holiday is so important? On July 4, 1776, we...
read more

KR & FB = Friends

Posted by admin on Jun 28, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Comments Box is a social plugin that enables user commenting on your site. Features include moderation tools and distribution. Social Relevance: Comments Box uses social signals to surface the highest quality comments for each user. Comments are ordered to show users the most relevant comments from friends, friends of friends, and the most liked or active discussion threads, while comments...
read more

Portland Real Estate Boom?

Posted by alison on Jun 24, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments The Portland Metro area could see a boom in new residents, according to the Portland Tribune. When it comes to climate sensitivity, with no freshwater shortages or energy-price spikes, Portland is one of the most resilient areas. What does this mean for real estate? It means we’ll see a large influx of “climate refugees” coming to Portland for the environmental bonuses and green homes....
read more

Portland Summer Events!

Posted by alison on Jun 17, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Now that school’s out for summer it’s time to get your plans together, and start enjoying some sun. There are plenty of festivals, fairs, and events around the Portland area. Here are some popular events this summer… You can soak up some sun this Fourth of July weekend at The Blues Festival on the Waterfront. There will be blues fans from around the world, and some of the best blues...
read more

Preparing For Your Vacation – Home Security Tips

Posted by alison on Jun 10, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Planning a vacation this summer? While we look forward to stress-free vacations, it can be hard if you are worried about the home you left behind. Here are some home security tips to help you have a peaceful, relaxing vacation. Tell a trusted friend or family member you’ll be away – With social media, it’s easy to let people know how excited you are about your next trip. Posting on the...
read more

Save the Date – Street of Dreams!

Posted by alison on Jun 3, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Save the date for this year’s NW Natural Street of Dreams, August 6th – 28th. With the sun out, it finally feels like summer. Looking ahead to warm sunny days, this is an annual event you won’t want to miss. This year the Street of Dreams inspiration was to represent new priorities for Northwest living. There will be five homes that give you great ideas for how to reclaim the dream in this...
read more

Portland Rose Festival

Posted by alison on May 27, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Its Memorial Day weekend, and that also means the start of the Portland Rose Festival. Starting this weekend, for three full weekends the festivities begin. No matter if the weather cooperates or not, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Fireworks will launch at 10pm on the Waterfront tonight, and all day today, May 27th admission is free. The CityFair features an exciting new...
read more

Time is Money … and so is our App

Posted by admin on May 20, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments We understand that your time is valuable and that’s why we keep adding to our site. Not only is our site iPad friendly but now you can  download our free App and search homes at will.  Download, setup and begin your search in less than :60 seconds. This App shows listing details and full screen photos well. Requirements: Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 3.1.3 or...
read more

KR on the go

Posted by admin on May 15, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments We want everyone who visits our site to be able to search and see everything, from any device. More and more people these days are searching for their next Home on their iPad while on the go! So, we went the extra mile to make this happen. Stay tuned and maybe even bookmark our site because next week we have even more updates that we are rolling...
read more

Laughter is the Best Medicine

Posted by alison on May 13, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments When it comes to Portland Comedy shows, there are plenty of laugh-worthy options. Laughter boosts the immune system, reduces stress on the body, and produces a natural energy booster. Spend some time at a comedy show, and you’ll be sure to boost your immune system. There are many comedy shows around Portland, so why not add some laughter to your day and feel fantastic. See below for a list of...
read more

Portland Farmers Market

Posted by alison on May 6, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Spring is here! Being in Portland on a Saturday (or Sunday) means at least a quick visit to the Portland Saturday Market. If you haven’t been to the Portland Saturday Market, it’s worth going to. You’ll find hundreds of vendors selling locally made crafts and foods, as well as local musicians. Grab a bite to eat, wander the vendor booths, or sit and watch the world go by as you listen to...
read more

Green Building Trends

Posted by alison on Apr 29, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Green building is on the rise, and for good reason. High performance homes have increased from 18.5 to 23 percent in the Portland Metro area alone, according to Earth Advantage. In both Seattle and Portland, 1 of every 4 new homes is certified. The time has come for energy efficiency, and with it comes green homes. Many people associate green, energy-efficient homes with higher costs, but...
read more

Eat Mobile 2011

Posted by alison on Apr 22, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Eat Mobile 2011 – Coming to a City near you Portland is renowned for its extensive list of portable eateries known as Food carts! If you can believe it, there are over 500 licensed food carts in Portland. You can get fried food at some food carts, but you can also find high quality healthy cuisine made with the finest local ingredients. Willamette weekly has lined up 40 of the city’s best...
read more

Evergreen Wings & Waves

Posted by alison on Apr 15, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Coming to McMinnville, Oregon - The nation’s only education and aviation themed waterpark will open June 6th in McMinnville. The park will feature a Boeing 747 on the top of its building, to go with 10 waterslides, a wave pool, and a children’s museum dedicated to teach students about the power of water.  Amenities of the waterpark also include a leisure pool and spa, a restaurant, play...
read more

Staging Your Home for Sale

Posted by alison on Apr 8, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Every seller wants their home to sell fast and at the right price. Well, it’s not luck that makes that happen. It’s careful planning and knowing how to spruce up your home that will send home buyers wanting your house. It’s about staging your home the right way. Home staging is about illusions. It’s beyond decorating and cleaning (although that is part of the process). Staging makes your...
read more

New Opportunities in the Housing Market

Posted by alison on Apr 1, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments NEXT YEARS MARKET IS LOOMING—AND IT LOOKS ROBUST! As winter begins to wind down, new opportunities loom on the horizon.  Home sales are on the rise, making opportunities for the spring season ripe for the picking. Have you been waiting for that elusive “bottom of the market”?   Or have you been waiting for rates to fall further?  If you’ve been contemplating a new home purchase for...
read more

Home Buying Tips

Posted by alison on Mar 25, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Have you been putting off buying a home because you’re waiting for the best deal? According to experts, now may be the time to re-launch your search. Keeping in mind a few home buying tips will help you navigate through the housing process. Check your resources. No matter how affordable prices are, remember that buying a home is still likely your largest financial investment. You’ll want to...
read more

Spring Break Ideas for the Kids

Posted by alison on Mar 18, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Spring Break Fun – without breaking the bank Looking for some Spring Break ideas for this next week? Just because it’s a little wet and cold outside, doesn’t mean you won’t find lots to do. You don’t have to break the bank either. Here are a few ideas for you and your kid(s) this next week: -A.C. Gilbert Discovery Village (Salem): - With different workshops every day of spring...
read more

The Luck of the Irish

Posted by alison on Mar 11, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner- Get ready to kick up your clogs and raise a glass on March 17th. There are plenty of activities starting this weekend, continuing through next weekend. Here is a list of some of the most popular events: The 33rd annual Shamrock Run is this Sunday, March 13th downtown Portland. Even if you’re not participating in the run, there are great...
read more

Gibbs Street Pedestrian Bridge

Posted by alison on Mar 4, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Coming soon to a neighborhood near you! Portland is working to build a new bike and pedestrian bridge over I-5, which will connect the historic Lair Hill neighborhood with the South Waterfront District. With Portland having some of the highest number of bikers in the country, this new pedestrian friendly bridge will be a great addition. This new bridge will extend approximately 700 feet, and...
read more

MLS Coming to Portland

Posted by alison on Feb 25, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Get ready for a big new attraction in Portland. If you haven’t heard, the Portland Timbers start their first season in Major League Soccer this year. Soccer has always been a big part of the Portland sports scene, but the city’s soccer mania will reach a whole new level. The Timbers have been playing in Portland since 1975, having outlasted several different US soccer leagues. This will be...
read more

First Time Home Buyer?

Posted by alison on Feb 18, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Common questions for first-time homebuyers: Why should I buy instead of rent? A home is an investment Your monthly rent check is gone forever You can deduct the cost of your mortgage loan interest from your federal income taxes, and the property taxes you pay as a homeowner You’ll enjoy having something that’s yours, with your own personal style! Can I become a homebuyer even if I’ve had...
read more

Friday Fun Facts

Posted by alison on Feb 11, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments Did you know? Portland is one of those few places in the world where real estate prices go up when there’s a good independent coffee shop in the neighborhood. Starbucks doesn’t cut it. Oregon is home to the world’s smallest park in the world, Mill Ends Park. The Tillamook Cheese Factory is the largest cheese factory in the world. Eugene was the first city to have one-way streets,...
read more

Oregon’s Seafood & Wine Festival

Posted by alison on Feb 4, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments  Looking for something to do this weekend besides watching football? This year’s Oregon Seafood and Wine Festival starts today at the Oregon Convention Center in NE Portland. If you love wine and seafood, why not pair them together? The event will be open today, February 4th from 2pm – 9pm, and Saturday February 5 from noon to 9pm. With over 50 wineries attending, 20 seafood restaurants,...
read more

Best of Portland

Posted by alison on Feb 2, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments The insiders view of Portland - It looks like the sun is finally making an appearance. Although the rain sometimes gets in the way, Portland is recognized as one of the best places to live. If you don’t already know why, you’ll find out on this Portland Walking Tour. This “Portland 101” tour provides the best overview of how people live, work, and travel around the city. If you want the...
read more

Poised to Gain Strength

Posted by admin on Jan 21, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments The housing industry is poised to gain strength this year after coming off one of its worst years ever in 2010, economic forecasts and new data released Wednesday show. One cause for optimism: Building permits for new single-family homes rose 5.5% last month, the third consecutive monthly increase and the strongest showing since March, the Commerce Department said. That sets the stage for more...
read more

I Picked Up a Guy on a Street Corner

Posted by admin on Jan 7, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments I Picked Up a Guy on a Street Corner So I’m downtown waiting for a locksmith to show up so I can break into a condo I have listed. That’s what happens when a Broker that was showing the unit locked the key to the door inside the condo (brilliant) and the copy I had at the office doesn’t work but that’s a whole other story. Now the locksmith I am meeting is over 20 minutes late. I’m...
read more

Preferred Lenders

Posted by admin on Jan 5, 2011 in Community Blog | 0 comments “Todd, why did you send me this list of lenders you prefer, I can find a cheaper one online!” Great question! But let me ask you this, have you ever met this person? Have you ever talked to their past clients? Have you ever seen a sale fail because of one of these internet lenders? The problem with most internet lenders is they are not going to be at closing or easy to get a hold of...
read more

5 Things to be grateful for…

Posted by admin on Nov 24, 2010 in Community Blog | 0 comments If you are a Real Estate Agent #1. I’m Still Here The market meltdown has dramatically reduced the number of people in our profession. I have incredible respect for all the agents that are left. If you’re still here – you should be thankful and PROUD. #2. My Knowledge Is Needed Now More Than Ever With the market change, buyers and sellers need our help now more than ever. Most still don’t...
read more

State of the Market, November 2010

Posted by alison on Nov 8, 2010 in Community Blog | 0 comments State of the Market, November 2010 National Update: Existing-home sales rose again in September, affirming that a sales recovery has begun, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Existing-home sales, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, jumped 10.0 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.53 million in September...
read more

Short Sales Getting a Bad Rap?

Posted by admin on Aug 23, 2010 in Community Blog | 0 comments Written by: Michelle Berry For the most part short sales transactions have had a pretty bad rep, and maybe that was warranted for a while. I mean really, who wants to wait six months for a bank to issue an approval? The sellers are stressed, and often waited too long to put their home on the market, triggering a notice of default and the subsequent auction date to contend with. And the neighbors...
read more

Gifts

Posted by admin on Aug 23, 2010 in Community Blog | 0 comments Written by: Michael Franz Gifts…occasionally they have an indelible impact on your life; such is the case with the 35mm camera given to me by my older brother. If you know me then you are familiar with my fascination of anything artistic. Ever since I was a kid, I can remember drawing cars and spending an hour to get the front fender shaped just right. As I grew older, more time was spent in...
read more