When people ask me, “Lisa, what really drives someone’s decision to buy or sell in Portland right now?” my answer always comes back to three interlinked forces: property taxes, cost of living, and local quality of life. Here’s how each factor is shifting behavior — and what that means for buyers, se

Buying a home is one of life’s most exciting milestones, and if you’re gearing up to close on a property in 2025, you might be wondering what’s changed—and what’s stayed the same—about the home closing process. Let’s walk through what you can expect, step by step, so you can approach your big day wi

Buying a home is one of life’s most exciting milestones—but it’s easy to get swept up in the thrill of house hunting and overlook the less obvious expenses. Beyond the down payment and monthly mortgage, there’s a whole world of hidden costs that can catch buyers off guard. Let’s pull back the curtai

Thinking of selling your home and hoping to get top dollar? You’re not alone! Most homeowners dream of maximizing their home’s value before putting that “For Sale” sign in the yard. The good news: you don’t have to break the bank to make a big impact. Here’s how you can boost your home’s appeal—and

Buying a home is a thrilling adventure, but it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement and overlook the details that matter most. That’s where a thorough home inspection comes in! Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, knowing what to look for during a home inspection can save y

House hunting can feel like a high-stakes race, especially when you’re up against cash buyers. You find the perfect home, your heart skips a beat, and then—bam!—someone swoops in with a cash offer. It’s easy to feel discouraged, but don’t worry: you have more power than you think. Let’s explore how

When you’re ready to start your home buying journey, you’ll likely hear two terms tossed around: pre-qualification and pre-approval. While they sound similar, they play very different roles in the process—and knowing the difference can give you an edge in today’s competitive market. What is Pre-Qual

When you picture buying a home, what’s the first number that pops into your head for a down payment? If you’re like many people, you might think of the classic “20% rule.” But in today’s ever-changing real estate market, that number isn’t set in stone—and it might surprise you how flexible things ca

If you’ve been following the housing market lately, you’ve probably noticed that interest rates have been a hot topic. It’s a question on many minds: should you take the plunge and buy a home now, or wait and hope for those rates to dip? Let’s break it down together, because the answer isn’t one-siz

Deciding whether to rent or buy a home in 2025 isn’t just a financial calculation—it’s a deeply personal choice shaped by your lifestyle, goals, and the ever-shifting real estate landscape. With headlines swirling about interest rates, housing shortages, and economic uncertainty, it’s no wonder so m

If you're considering home buying in Portland, you may be wondering whether it's currently a buyer's market. Understanding the local real estate market dynamics can help you make informed decisions. Let’s explore the current state of the Portland real estate market and what it means for buyers and s

How to Prepare My Home in Portland to Sell • Understand Portland's real estate market trends. • Declutter and depersonalize your home. • Make necessary repairs and improvements. • Stage your home for maximum appeal. • Price your home competitively with expert help.   Selling a home in Portland can b

  Timing the real estate market is one of the most common questions I hear: “Should I buy or sell now, or wait for seasonal advantages?” The truth is, the answer depends on your goals, your property type, and your timeline. Here’s how the Portland real estate market typically flows and what it means

If you’re buying or selling a home in Portland, Oregon, you’ve probably heard about the August 2024 NAR settlementand how it affects Realtor fees. The changes are designed to increase transparency, clarify compensation, and give both buyers and sellers more control. But what does this really mean fo

 When it comes to selling your home in Portland, first impressions are everything. Buyers often decide within the first few minutes whether a home “feels right,” which makes preparation just as important as pricing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your home market-ready—and to ensure you stand ou

Is It a Good Time to Invest in Portland Real Estate? Portland continues to attract buyers for its strong job market, universities, and quality of life. But is now the right time to invest? Why Investors Are Saying Yes: Steady rental demand – Students, young professionals, and families keep vacancy r

What Are the Closing Costs in Oregon, and Who Pays Them? Closing costs are one of the most common surprises in a real estate transaction. In Oregon, buyers typically pay 2–4% of the purchase price in closing costs, while sellers pay agent commissions and some title fees. Buyer Closing Costs May Incl

One of the first questions sellers ask is, “How long will my home take to sell?” On average, homes in Portland sell within 20–45 days, depending on price, location, and condition. Factors that speed up a sale: Homes priced correctly from day one Move-in ready condition (fresh paint, updated fixtures

Portland’s real estate market continues to shift with interest rates, demand, and neighborhood growth. As of 2025, the median home price in Portland sits around $500,000–$525,000 (exact numbers change monthly depending on RMLS reports). For Buyers:The median price matters because it helps set expect

How Can I Price My Home to Sell? When it’s time to sell your home in Portland, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is your listing price. Get it right, and your home can attract multiple offers quickly. Get it wrong, and your property could sit on the market—leading to price reductions,