Archive for the Remodeling a home or investment Category

Winding Down as the Dust Settles at the New Duplex Project! Irvington Neighborhood, Portland!OR!

August18
"The Long and Winding Road" - The Beatles The dust quietly settles at the new duplex project in Irvington and only some re-shaping of the landscaping and exterior projects remain.  Both new residents have moved in and one side is settled in, the other is… Read More

July 2011 Portland Metro Real Estate Update!

July21
Queen & David Bowie "Under Pressure" July 2011 Portland Metro Real Estate Update!! Despite the fact that summer refuses to join us this year, our Portland real estate market marches on.  Nationwide, 2011 thus far is the worst year for home sales in history!  However, locally it doesn't necessarily feel that way.  Closed sales were definitely down in June 2011 compared with June 2010, but pending sales jumped compared with last year.  And inventory is the lowest it’s been since July 2007!  At the current rate of sales, the Portland Metro area has only 6 months of invento… Read More

Making Hay While the Sun Shines! (or the making of an investment)

July5
Sam Cooke "Chain Gang" I have a new duplex project and my partner and I have been planning, preparing and putting in some hours.  This is not nearly the scope of a remodeling project as our last two duplexes; where we had to refinish hardwoods, gut kitchens, add insulation, replace sinks, extensive prep/painting & more.  All the same, it takes a bit of imagination, time & energy.  This new investment is a substantial 1940's side-by-side duplex in another superb neighborhood that has been basically maintained, occasionally upgraded and obviously loved!!  The hardwoods on both l… Read More

Portland Homeowners: Start Your Engines!

May31
Grateful Dead "Gentlemen, Start Your Engines" Portland Homeowners: Start Your Engines...I mean, Projects! Summertime is almost here (or at least Portlanders can hope and dream) and many people will be starting home improvement projects. Some may call it "Honey-Do" season. Whether they're classified as maintenance, updating or energy saving, they should make homeownership more enjoyable and increase the value of your property! Remodeling magazine's 2010-11 Cost vs. Value Report suggests that some improvements are a better investment than others. Front door and garage door replacements a… Read More