Author: Dianne Gregoire

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Lake Oswego Market Trends

I thought it would be interesting to do a couple of snap shots of various price points in the Lake Oswego real estate market. These each cover all listing/sold activity for the last six months and are divided into value ranges. These are for single-family, detached homes and are all located in the 97034 and 97035 zip codes.  Click on any of the graphs to see a larger, easier-to-read version:

Houses priced from $200,000 to $400,000

  • 166 were offered for sale
  • 88 sold
  • There is currently a listing inventory of 6.3 month
  • The average sales price was $324,773
  • Among the sold homes, the CDOM (cumulative days on the market) averaged 129 days

Houses priced from $400,000 to $600,000

  • 156 were offered for sale
  • 71 sold
  • There is currently a listing inventory of 10.7 months
  • The average sales price was $480,964
  • Average cumulative days on the market to sell was 165 days

Houses priced from $600,000 to $800,000

  • 76 were offered for sale
  • 36 sold
  • There is currently an inventory of 10.7 months
  • The average sales price was $701,924
  • Cumulative days on the market to sell was 234

Houses priced from $800,000 to $1,200,000

  • 76 were offered for sale
  • 30 sold
  • There is an inventory of 17.2 months
  • Average sales price was $947,899
  • Cumulative days on the market to sell was 373 days

Homes priced $1,200,000 to $2,200,000

  • 52 were offered for sale
  • 16 sold
  • There is a 24.5 month inventory
  • Average sales price was $1,552,281
  • Cumulative days on the market was 323

I like these little snap shots.  It allows you to visually see the market.  It is very apparent that the first-time-home buyer tax credit that was originally supposed to expire in November had a big impact on the less expensive homes (we will probably see something similar this April with the extension).  It’s also very easy to see that less expensive homes sell more easily than more expensive homes.  Cumulative days on the market in the expensive homes is out and out ugly.

One reason for doing this post, this week, was so that I could play with the new statistics function being offered to Realtors by the RMLS.  Our local multiple listing service was the first in the entire United States to go completely web-based about 8 years ago.  Since then they have continued to push the functions of the website and the new statistics function is the latest enhancement.  It still has some limitations, but it is really cool.  Linda and I can now take snap shots of pretty much any part of the market, depending on what our clients needs are, and produce these spiffy graphs and statistics.  Besides being fun, I think it’s going to be extremely helpful.

I hope you found something useful in the information presented today.  If you have any other areas of the market you’d like studied or questions you’d like answered, just let us know.

Dianne

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Market Activity for February 15-21, 2010

This past week brought 26 new listings onto the market in Lake Oswego, 8 houses received offers that were accepted, and 6 houses closed escrow.
(see below the tables for additional notes):

NEWLY LISTED (Feb. 15—Feb. 21, 2010)

Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type List Date
7 CRESTFIELD CT $89,900 1 1 689 CONDO 2/16/2010
44 EAGLE CREST DR $154,000 3 2 1,085 CONDO 2/19/2010
1652 BONNIEBRAE DR $219,900 3 1.1 1,303 CONDO 2/21/2010
16250 PACIFIC HWY $259,000 2 2 1,305 CONDO 2/15/2010
82 WHEATHERSTONE $289,000 3 2.1 1,692 ATTACHD 2/17/2010
12892 BOONES FERRY RD $309,000 2 2.1 1,136 CONDO 2/16/2010
2638 GREENTREE RD $319,900 4 2 2,712 DETACHD 2/17/2010
5110 LAKEVIEW BLVD $339,900 3 2 1,340 DETACHD 2/15/2010
5756 KENNY ST 339900 3 2.1 1,542 DETACHD 2/20/2010
2030 GREENTREE RD 368900 3 2 1,613 DETACHD 2/15/2010
14138 KNAUS RD 375000 4 2 2,001 DETACHD 2/18/2010
18414 SANDPIPER ST 385900 3 2.1 1,712 DETACHD 2/19/2010
4200 COBB WAY 399000 3 3 2,400 DETACHD 2/18/2010
4002 TEMPEST DR 430000 4 3.1 4,319 DETACHD 2/17/2010
18640 TUALATA AVE 439000 4 3 2,087 DETACHD 2/15/2010
5475 WILLOW CT 479900 3 2.1 2,438 ATTACHD 2/19/2010
4763 AVERY LN 514900 4 2.1 2,566 DETACHD 2/18/2010
2440 OVERLOOK DR 525000 4 3 3,874 DETACHD 2/15/2010
5043 ROSEWOOD ST 549900 3 3 2,680 DETACHD 2/16/2010
325 3RD ST 559900 2 2.1 1,937 ATTACHD 2/19/2010
5035 ROSEWOOD ST 564900 3 3 2,875 DETACHD 2/17/2010
45 DA VINCI ST 649000 3 3.1 3,122 DETACHD 2/16/2010
14002 TAYLORS CREST LN 650000 4 3 3,086 DETACHD 2/17/2010
5705 SOUTHWOOD DR 739900 3 2.1 3,372 DETACHD 2/18/2010
4114 CASEY CT 879000 4 2.1 3,405 DETACHD 2/18/2010
983 LAKE FRONT RD 1595000 3 2 2,199 DETACHD 2/18/2010

PENDING SALES (Feb. 15 – Feb. 21, 2010)

Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type CDOM
47 EAGLE CREST DR $95,000 2 1 932 CONDO 399
1950 BONNIEBRAE DR $179,500 2 1.1 1,056 ATTACHD 91
860 MCVEY AVE $261,360 8 5.1 3,648 DETACHD 8
16266 LAKE FOREST BLVD $314,999 3 2 1,860 DETACHD 303
4051 VIRGINIA WAY $334,900 4 2.1 1,658 DETACHD 139
18040 ROYCE WAY $649,980 5 3 3,780 DETACHD 259
16705 GLENWOOD CT $699,000 4 3 4,243 DETACHD 190
16764 ALDER CIR $1,679,000 4 4.1 3,456 DETACHD 200

SOLD (Feb. 15 – Feb. 21, 2010)

Address O/Price Close Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type CDOM
45 SW EAGLE CREST DR $205,000 $197,000 3 2 1,348 CONDO 50
192 RIDGEWAY RD $235,000 $200,000 2 1 1,659 CONDO 148
4447 GOLDEN LN $249,000 $229,000 2 2.1 1,980 ATTACHD 531
19 BECKET ST $399,995 $399,995 4 3.1 3,818 DETACHD 72
4938 MULHOLLAND DR $478,500 $450,000 3 2.1 2,498 ATTACHD 217
13311 LESLIE CT $1,479,000 $1,300,000 4 4.1 5,601 DETACHD 223

Criteria: Homes in the 97034 and 97035 zip code, listed, pending or sold between the dates listed above as reported by the Regional Multiple Listing Service (RMLS). DETACHD refers to Single Family Detached Residence, MFG refers to manufactured housing, and ATTACHD refers to single-family residences with some portion of the structure attached to another property, but not constituting CONDO ownership. DOM stands for days on market, or the number of days from when the listing became active and when it received an acceptable offer, with CDOM standing for “cumulative days on market” accounting for “refreshed” listings.

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Market Activity for February 8-14, 2010

Last week brought us 14 new listings, 13 pending sales, and 7 closed sales. I want to point out one of the new listings.  Every now and then something comes on the market that just screams at me that it is a great deal.  The house at 17471 Cardinal does that to me.  It just came onto the market as a foreclosure and is priced at $575,900.  It was built in 1973 and has 3056 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 2 and a half baths.  That all sounds pretty normal as far as values goes.  What makes this house amazing is that it’s on Blue Heron Canal.  This is Oswego Lake waterfront for $575,900.  It looks to be in average condition.  Not all updated with granite and stainless steel, but also not a total dog house.  The last time I saw something anywhere near this price on a canal it was a total fixer.  I think this house is a great opportunity for someone who wants a deal on the lake.
(see below the tables for additional notes):

NEWLY LISTED (Feb. 8—Feb. 14, 2010)

Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type List Date
96 CERVANTES CIR $139,900 2 1.1 912 CONDO 2/10/2010
3433 SW MCNARY PKWY $153,000 2 2 1,008 CONDO 2/10/2010
4340 BOTTICELLI ST $239,900 3 3.1 2,098 CONDO 2/11/2010
860 MCVEY AVE $261,360 8 5.1 3,648 DETACHD 2/11/2010
5055 Foothills DR $274,900 3 2 1,252 CONDO 2/10/2010
44 ORIOLE LN $329,000 4 2.1 2,224 DETACHD 2/14/2010
16044 INVERURIE RD $399,000 2 1 952 DETACHD 2/8/2010
4236 HARVEY WAY $399,500 3 2.1 1,870 DETACHD 2/12/2010
32 CHURCHILL DOWNS 448250 4 2.1 3,016 DETACHD 2/9/2010
17471 CARDINAL DR 575900 4 2.1 3,056 DETACHD 2/11/2010
1000 ATWATER RD 699500 4 3 2,200 DETACHD 2/10/2010
731 F AVE 750000 4 2.1 2,668 DETACHD 2/8/2010
19226 MEGAN PL 765000 3 2.1 3,392 DETACHD 2/8/2010
2125 RIDGE POINTE DR 879000 4 3.1 3,489 DETACHD 2/13/2010

PENDING SALES (Feb. 8 – Feb. 14, 2010)

Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type CDOM
28 CRESTFIELD CT $79,950 2 2 923 CONDO 5
16250 PACIFIC HWY $99,900 1 1 848 CONDO 1049
3433 MCNARY PKWY $129,900 2 2.1 1,208 CONDO 132
5225 Jean RD $164,900 2 2 1,100 CONDO 92
323 CERVANTES $165,000 2 2 1,265 CONDO 84
17659 DEEMAR WAY $169,000 3 2 1,382 DETACHD 90
65 GREENRIDGE CT $180,000 2 2 1,314 CONDO 80
3009 WEMBLEY PARK RD $329,000 4 1.1 1,754 DETACHD 302
16111 LINDSAY CT 333500 3 2.1 1,840 DETACHD 73
4651 HASTINGS PL 454900 4 2.1 2,215 DETACHD 35
26 WESTRIDGE DR 479900 4 3 2,758 DETACHD 308
5590 KODERRA AVE 689000 4 2.1 3,072 DETACHD 264
64 BERWICK RD 759000 4 3.1 3,740 DETACHD 66

SOLD (Feb. 8 – Feb. 14, 2010)

Address O/Price Close Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type CDOM
668 MCVEY AVE $143,550 $136,400 3 1.1 992 CONDO 95
13050 BOONES FERRY RD $359,900 $350,000 3 2 2,632 DETACHD 170
19 MORNINGVIEW CIR $469,900 $450,000 3 2.1 2,337 DETACHD 4
401 ASH ST $825,000 $485,000 5 4 5,320 DETACHD 469
18269 TAMAWAY DR $569,000 $490,000 4 2.1 3,293 DETACHD 51
2000 WEMBLEY PARK RD $540,000 $550,000 4 3 2,660 DETACHD 89
17677 WESTVIEW DR $1,423,000 $1,320,000 5 4.1 5,031 DETACHD 130

Criteria: Homes in the 97034 and 97035 zip code, listed, pending or sold between the dates listed above as reported by the Regional Multiple Listing Service (RMLS). DETACHD refers to Single Family Detached Residence, MFG refers to manufactured housing, and ATTACHD refers to single-family residences with some portion of the structure attached to another property, but not constituting CONDO ownership. DOM stands for days on market, or the number of days from when the listing became active and when it received an acceptable offer, with CDOM standing for “cumulative days on market” accounting for “refreshed” listings.

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Lake Oswego Open Houses for February 14, 2010

You’ve given your sweetheart the flowers, the chocolates, and the elegant breakfast, now it’s time to take him to an open house! There are 29 open houses in Lake Oswego this Sunday. I’m sure that one of them will have everything your heart desires.

Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type Open
1547 BOCA RATAN DR $198,600 2 1.1 1,008 ATTACHD 1 to 3
4372 WOODSIDE CIR $274,900 2 2 1,178 ATTACHD 1 to 3
210 S STATE ST $299,950 2 1.1 1,495 CONDO 12 to 3
5373 LAKEVIEW BLVD $329,500 3 1 2,176 DETACHD 2 to 4
4236 HARVEY WAY $399,500 3 2.1 1,870 DETACHD 1 to 4
662 CLARA CT $469,900 3 3 2,740 DETACHD 2 to 4
1414 GREENTREE CIR $479,000 4 2.1 2,330 DETACHD 12 to 2
73 TANGLEWOOD DR $499,500 4 3.1 4,254 DETACHD 12 to 3
14279 CAMDEN LN 525000 4 2.1 2,373 DETACHD 1 to 3
1060 UPPER DEVON LN 559000 3 2.1 2,400 DETACHD 1 to 3
19101 INDIAN CREEK AVE 599900 2 2.1 3,259 DETACHD 1 to 4
4605 CHELSEA LN 649000 4 2.1 3,411 DETACHD 1 to 3
15915 WALUGA DR 669000 3 2.1 2,939 DETACHD 1 to 4
16705 GLENWOOD CT 699000 4 3 4,243 DETACHD 12 to 3
2688 RIVENDELL RD 745000 4 3 3,720 DETACHD 1 to 4
17110 LOWENBERG TER 799000 4 2.1 2,678 DETACHD 1 to 4
17281 LOWENBERG TER 884900 4 3.1 3,386 DETACHD 1 to 4
17154 LOWENBERG TER 889900 5 3.1 3,497 DETACHD 1 to 4
17896 SW KELOK RD 990000 5 5 4,323 DETACHD 2 to 4
18222 SIENA DR 1088000 6 4.1 3,800 DETACHD 1 to 3
18209 SIENA DR 1178950 5 3.1 3,839 DETACHD 1 to 3
18143 SIENA DR 1197000 5 4.1 4,152 DETACHD 1 to 3
17464 RIDGEVIEW LN 1199950 4 3.1 4,407 DETACHD 1 to 3
1808 RIDGE POINTE DR 1269000 5 4.1 4,155 DETACHD 1 to 3
18246 BELLA TERRA DR 1294000 4 3.1 4,196 DETACHD 1 to 3
664 OAK MEADOW DR 1299950 4 3.1 4,198 DETACHD 1 to 3
657 OAK MEADOW DR 1349950 4 3.1 4,371 DETACHD 1 to 3
17364 RIDGEVIEW CT 1399950 4 3.1 4,436 DETACHD 1 to 3
15825 OSWEGO SHORE CT 1985850 4 3.1 4,317 DETACHD 12 to 2
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Featured Property: 211 Oswego Summit

Newly listed, this home should be at the top of your list if you are considering buying a condo in Lake Oswego. Priced at $229,900, it is a spacious 2 bedroom, 2 full-bath home that has been recently updated. It is immaculate with all new windows, crown moldings, and walnut floors.

This property is on the top floor and at the end of the building. So it is very, very private and very, very quiet. It is also all on one level with an elevator, so there are absolutely zero stairs. It also has an over-sized, one-car garage that is 13×20 feet. The garage is just a few steps from the elevator. So access to your condo is both easy and convenient and you are covered and out of the weather the entire time.

The rooms in this condo are large. The master bedroom is 17×12 and the living room is 21×14. The master has a huge walk-in closet and its own full bath. The living room has a wood-burning fireplace and a deck that goes the entire length of the room.

Did I mention the view? There are spectacular views of SW Portland looking towards the city as well as Mt. St. Helens. Seriously, this is a lot of value for the money without there being a gorgeous view. Then add in the fact that every single day you get to live on top of the world and you have found one great place to live.

This condo is located in Mt. Park on the Western edge of Lake Oswego. Mt. Park is one of the first planned developments in the United States. It features 15 miles of walking paths, tennis, basketball, swimming, weight rooms, exercise classes and a gorgeous rec center that can be used for meetings and receptions.

Here are some of the numbers:
Priced at $229,900
1506 square feet with 2 bedrooms and 2 baths
HOA fees are $361 a month (includes 2 pools, weight room, water, sewer, and garbage) and $207 every 6 months to Mt. Park
taxes are just $2799 per year
The condo was built in 1981 and it has recently been remodeled inside.
The complex is extremely well cared for with gorgeous landscaping and all buildings in excellent condition.

I would love to have the opportunity to show you this property in person. Do not hesitate to give me a call to make an appointment. I can be reached via phone at 503-803-6298 or via e-mail at jdgregoire@earthlink.net

Thanks for taking the time to hear about this fabulous property!
—Dianne

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Market Activity for January 25-31, 2010

Last week brought 13 new listings onto the market in Lake Oswego, 14 pending sales, and 3 closed sales. In the weekly lockbox activity report, lockbox openings were up for the 4th week in a row. So lots of buyers are out there looking.

I am excited this week to have my own new listing in the market activity report. 211 Oswego Summit came onto the market for $229,900. It is a gorgeous (yes, I know I am prejudiced, but seriously, this home is spectacular) one-level condominium in Oswego Summit. It has over 1500 square feet with 2 HUGE bedrooms and 2 full baths. It is on the top floor with commanding views of Mt. St. Helens and SW Portland, but it has an elevator so there are NO STAIRS. I’ll be holding it open on Broker’s Tour on Tuesday the 2nd from 11am to 1pm. The public is welcome to attend Broker’s Open Houses, so come on by. And if you can’t make it on Tuesday, I’ll be there again on Sunday the 7th from noon to 3pm.

Here is last week’s market activity report:
Here’ your data for last week (see below the tables for additional notes):
NEWLY LISTED (Jan. 25—Jan. 31, 2010)

Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type List Date
4 TOUCHSTONE DR $156,000 2 2 979 CONDO 1/27/2010
205 CERVANTES $164,900 2 1.1 1,216 ATTACHD 1/26/2010
4 TOUCHSTONE $184,000 3 2.1 1,351 CONDO 1/28/2010
48 EAGLE CREST DR $224,900 2 2 1,370 CONDO 1/26/2010
211 OSWEGO SMT $229,900 2 2 1,506 CONDO 1/31/2010
29 E AVE $289,000 2 1 1,176 DETACHD 1/28/2010
92 GREENRIDGE CT $349,995 3 2.1 1,980 ATTACHD 1/28/2010
5330 LOWER DR $399,000 3 2 2,010 DETACHD 1/29/2010
785 3RD ST 439900 2 1 1,100 DETACHD 1/26/2010
13052 KNAUS RD 475000 5 3 3,026 DETACHD 1/30/2010
4524 AUBURN LN 535000 3 3.1 2,732 DETACHD 1/26/2010
1 BRITTEN CT 625000 4 3 2,325 DETACHD 1/30/2010
15915 WALUGA DR 669000 3 2.1 2,939 DETACHD 1/25/2010

PENDING SALES (Jan. 25 – Jan. 31, 2010)

Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type CDOM
5225 Jean RD $164,900 2 2 1,100 CONDO 79
105 KINGSGATE RD $269,900 3 2 1,500 DETACHD 203
17650 ARBOR LN $319,000 3 3 2,043 DETACHD 209
2705 ORCHARD HILL PL $374,900 3 2.5 2,250 DETACHD 19
2530 PALISADES CREST DR $376,200 4 2.1 2,774 DETACHD 20
19 BECKET ST $399,995 4 3.1 3,818 DETACHD 72
529 2ND ST $445,000 2 2 1,339 CONDO
19 MORNINGVIEW CIR $469,900 3 2.1 2,337 DETACHD 4
12748 SW 22ND AVE 515000 3 2.1 3,052 DETACHD 188
401 ASH ST 525000 5 4 5,320 DETACHD 469
17649 WOODHURST PL 579900 6 4.1 5,669 DETACHD 285
5322 ROSALIA WAY 699000 4 2.1 3,500 DETACHD 87
17212 CHAPIN WAY 850000 3 2.1 2,541 DETACHD 314
13311 LESLIE CT 1479000 4 4.1 5,601 DETACHD 223

SOLD (Jan. 25 – Jan. 31, 2010)

Address O/Price Close Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type CDOM
1261 BOCA RATAN DR $239,000 $213,000 3 2 1,611 ATTACHD 93
909 CUMBERLAND PL $374,000 $285,000 4 3 2,716 DETACHD 43
8 WALKING WOODS DR $450,000 $423,000 4 3 3,302 DETACHD 303

Criteria: Homes in the 97034 and 97035 zip code, listed, pending or sold between the dates listed above as reported by the Regional Multiple Listing Service (RMLS). DETACHD refers to Single Family Detached Residence, MFG refers to manufactured housing, and ATTACHD refers to single-family residences with some portion of the structure attached to another property, but not constituting CONDO ownership. DOM stands for days on market, or the number of days from when the listing became active and when it received an acceptable offer, with CDOM standing for “cumulative days on market” accounting for “refreshed” listings.

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Open Houses for January 31, 2010

There are 28 open houses being advertised via the RMLS for Lake Oswego this Sunday:

Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type Open
59 GALEN ST $94,950 1 1 550 CONDO 1 to 3
100 LEONARD ST $264,900 2 2 1,364 CONDO 1:30 to 4
5373 LAKEVIEW BLVD $329,500 3 1 2,176 DETACHD 2 to 4
15965 INVERURIE RD $385,000 4 2 1,915 DETACHD 1 to 3
119 3RD ST $399,900 3 2 1,204 CONDO 1 to 4
3075 ROYCE WAY $430,000 4 3.1 3,667 DETACHD 1 to 4
4955 GALEN ST $435,000 3 2.1 1,887 DETACHD 1 to 4
13448 AUBURN CT $474,900 3 2.1 2,535 ATTACHD 1 to 3
2705 SW ORCHARD HILL LN 499350 3 2.1 2,841 DETACHD 1 to 4
73 TANGLEWOOD DR 499500 4 3.1 4,254 DETACHD 1 to 4
4605 CHELSEA LN 649000 4 2.1 3,411 DETACHD 1 to 3
15915 WALUGA DR 669000 3 2.1 2,939 DETACHD 1 to4
520 C AVE 745000 4 4 3,242 ATTACHD 1 to 2:30
540 C AVE 749000 4 3.1 3,539 ATTACHD 1 to 2:30
17110 LOWENBERG TER 799000 4 2.1 2,678 DETACHD 12 to 3
17281 LOWENBERG TER 884900 4 3.1 3,386 DETACHD 12 to 3
17154 LOWENBERG TER 889900 5 3.1 3,497 DETACHD 12 to 3
12439 SW 22ND AVE 949900 4 3.1 4,118 DETACHD 12 to 4
17896 SW KELOK RD 990000 5 5 4,323 DETACHD 1:30 to 3:30
18222 SIENA DR 1088000 6 4.1 3,800 DETACHD 1 to 3
18143 SIENA DR 1197000 5 4.1 4,152 DETACHD 1 to 3
1808 RIDGE POINTE DR 1269000 5 4.1 4,155 DETACHD 1 to 3
18246 BELLA TERRA DR 1294000 4 3.1 4,196 DETACHD 1 to 3
664 OAK MEADOW DR 1299950 4 3.1 4,198 DETACHD 1 to3
657 OAK MEADOW DR 1349950 4 3.1 4,371 DETACHD 1 to3
17364 RIDGEVIEW CT 1399950 4 3.1 4,436 DETACHD 1 to 3
13961 KNAUS RD 2250000 4 4.2 6,614 DETACHD 3 to 4:30
2572 GLEN EAGLES PL 2395000 5 4.2 6,490 DETACHD 1 to 3

Have a great weekend!

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Lake Oswego Reads

Beginning in 2007, the City of Lake Oswego has used the month of February to host a city-wide reading program. The concept is to encourage everyone in town to read the same book at the same time. The community then hosts events to show-case and share the ideas found in the book. This year’s book selection is The Whistling Season by Ivan Doig.

The Whistling Season is a coming-of-age story set in 1910. It tells the tale of a rural family of 3 boys and their widowed father. The book was selected because, tying into the Lake Oswego Centennial Celebration,  it will transport the reader back to 1910, the year that the City of Lake Oswego was originally founded. The book was selected by a panel of librarians, community leaders, High School English teachers and High School students.

Throughout the month of February events will be held all over Lake Oswego to bring The Whistling Season to life in the community:
February 1, Lake Oswego Writes, Chuck’s Place, 7pm
February 2-28, Art Exhitition at Graham’s Book and Stationary and at Chrisman Picture Frame and Gallery. 18 artists have created original pieces based upon their vision while reading the book.

February 3, History of the Telephone, Heritage House, 7pm

February 5, Pioneer Lunch, Noon, Adult Community Center

February 8, Book Club Quilter’s Tea, 2 pm, the Library

February 9, One Room School House Panel Discussion, Holy Names Heritage Center, 2pm

February 10, Spelling Bee, Lakewood Center, 7pm

February 11, Tales of the Secret Life of Lake Oswego, Library, 7pm

February 12, Photo Scavenger Hunt for Teens, Library, 7pm

February 13, Apron Making Classes, The Pine Needle, 10 am for kids, 1pm for adults

February 17, Dream Analysis, Lake Oswego Country Club, $15, 11:45 am

February 17, Hear Ivan Doig in Person, Lake Oswego High School, 7pm, tickets are free and given out 1st come 1st serve on January 30, 11 am, at the Library (see you there!)

February 18, Star Gazing, Luscher Farm, 7pm

February 18, Book Discussion, 7pm, West End Building

February 19, Book Discussion. 1 pm, Adult Community Center

February 20, Horse Carriage Rides, 11am to 3pm, Graham’s Stationary

February 20, Hoe Down, 5-8pm, West End Building

February 24, Historic Recipe Tasting, 1pm, Adult Community Center

February 24, Book Discussion, 7pm, the Library

February 25, Book Discussion, 10am, Mt. Park Church

February 25, Hear a real hand whistler, 7pm, the Library

February 26, Book Discussion, 1pm, Adult Community Center

February 27, Horse Show/ Jumper Night, 5:30, Oswego Hunt

For specifics on each event, click here.

I am an avid reader.  I jumped into the Lake Oswego Reads idea when it was first introduced in 2007.  I don’t attend all of the events, but I do try to get to a few of them.  This year I will make the effort to get to the art show as well as the evening with Ivan Doig.  I also plan to take my Mom to the One-Room-School-House discussion on the 9th (she actually went to school in a 1-room school house).  I have  learned that the book discussions are interesting, both in person and on-line.  I think what I like most about Lake Oswego Reads is that it introduces me to really good books that I might otherwise not read.  Here is a brief list of past book choices and my take on them:

2007, Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon.  This book takes place in post-WWII Barcelona.  I liked this book.  It reminded me of The Davinci Code with its intrigue and espionage.  I particularly enjoyed the setting.  You feel like you are meandering through alleyways and breathing in Barcelona.  I know that this book was selected  because one of the goals of LO Reads is to draw in High School students as well as adults.  The local High Schools use the selected book in their classrooms.  This is a fast-paced story that successfully appeals to diverse age groups.

2008, Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Relin. This book is hands down one of the most important books of our time.  It is non-fiction.  It is about one man and his mission to bring peace to Afghanistan and Pakistan by building schools.  As I read it I found myself wishing that every world leader could take the time to read it too.  It is remarkable, amazing, and inspiring what one individual can accomplish.  And Greg Mortenson did it rather by chance.  You will find yourself with him as he comes off of climbing K2 and lands in a remote village in the Middle East.  He deals first-hand with The Taliban.  His mission is important and when your read about it you will be forever changed.

2009, Stubborn Twig by Lauren Kessler. This book traces 3 generations of Japanese immigrants from their early beginnings in the Hood River Valley, through their ordeals and the alterations of their lives during WWII, to the gradual assimilation into American culture after several generations.  I was completely touched by their story.  Like Three Cups of Tea, it is non-fiction.  This family came to the United States to find a better life, built a very successful business, and then lost nearly everything while being both jailed and put into Internment Camps.  And yet, they were and are  Americans, with lives of determination and patriotism.

I want to encourage you to get involved with Lake Oswego Reads.  If The Whistling Season is as good as the other book selections have been, then I know it will be a worthwhile experience.  And, let’s face it, one of the great things about February in Oregon is that it is the perfect time of year to curl up with a good book.

Dianne

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Market Activity Report for January 11-17, 2010

Here is our latest market activity report. Last week brought us 21 new listings, 10 pending sales, and 9 closed sales.

I want to explain that occasionally a property misses getting into our report. This happens if the property status changes during the week that represents our report, but the data is not changed in the RMLS until after our report is issued. Linda and I want these reports to be as accurate as possible, but we also want them to occur in a timely fashion. We regret that some property data is reported late and thus misses our report.

Here is the latest market activity for Lake Oswego (see below the tables for additional notes):
NEWLY LISTED (Jan. 11—Jan. 17, 2010)

Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type List Date
86 KINGSGATE RD $139,900 2 2 849 ATTACHD 1/11/2010
67 OSWEGO SMT $174,900 2 2 1,212 CONDO 1/12/2010
5225 JEAN RD 174900 – 199876 2 2 1,400 CONDO 1/13/2010
4 TOUCHSTONE $199,995 3 2.1 1,351 CONDO 1/16/2010
15 ORIOLE LN $269,900 2 2 1,470 DETACHD 1/12/2010
17350 BLUE HERON RD $330,000 4 2.1 2,880 DETACHD 1/13/2010
3 SAINT HELENS CIR $355,000 2 2 1,472 DETACHD 1/17/2010
240 4TH ST $399,900 2 1.1 1,080 DETACHD 1/14/2010
4729 FIRWOOD RD 439900 3 2.1 2,357 DETACHD 1/15/2010
4725 FIRWOOD RD 449900 3 2.1 2,296 ATTACHD 1/15/2010
64 TOUCHSTONE 449999 5 2.1 3,641 DETACHD 1/14/2010
2705 SW ORCHARD HILL LN 499350 3 2.1 2,841 DETACHD 1/11/2010
3368 SOUTHSHORE BLVD 499990 3 2 2,160 DETACHD 1/11/2010
14279 CAMDEN LN 525000 4 2.1 2,373 DETACHD 1/13/2010
4102 BUCK BRUSH LN 556900 4 3 2,205 DETACHD 1/15/2010
4581 HASTINGS PL 574900 4 2.1 2,985 DETACHD 1/11/2010
19175 EASTSIDE RD 900000 5 4.1 5,263 DETACHD 1/13/2010
18222 SIENA DR 1088000 6 4.1 3,800 DETACHD 1/12/2010
2057 SUMMIT DR 1099000 4 3.1 4,589 DETACHD 1/14/2010
1808 RIDGE POINTE DR 1269000 5 4.1 4,155 DETACHD 1/12/2010
13764 KNAUS RD 1375000 4 4.1 4,805 DETACHD 1/12/2010

PENDING SALES (Jan. 11 – Jan. 17, 2010)

Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type CDOM
12 CERVANTES CIR $105,000 2 1.1 912 CONDO 121
668 MCVEY AVE $164,900 2 1 852 CONDO 9
16250 PACIFIC HWY $170,000 3 2 1,626 CONDO 128
775 BOCA RATAN DR $184,500 3 3 2,401 DETACHD 131
3 SUMMIT RIDGE CT $274,000 2 2.1 1,576 ATTACHD 218
13050 BOONES FERRY RD $332,000 3 2 2,632 DETACHD 170
5460 BAY CREEK DR $424,900 3 2.1 2,358 DETACHD 136
38 DA VINCI ST $625,000 4 2.1 2,932 DETACHD 214
9 HIDALGO ST 649900 4 4.2 5,310 DETACHD 525
5234 WESTFIELD CT 724900 4 3 3,252 DETACHD 8

SOLD (Jan. 11 – Jan. 17, 2010)

Address O/Price Close Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type CDOM
3433 MCNARY PKWY $100,000 $101,500 2 2.1 1,208 CONDO 212
86 KINGSGATE RD $127,000 $132,000 2 2 924 CONDO 236
520 9TH ST $325,000 $300,000 3 2 1,148 DETACHD 151
16824 SW INVERURIE RD $389,900 $310,000 3 3 1,896 DETACHD 245
16824 INVERURIE RD $279,900 $310,000 3 3 1,896 DETACHD 245
1575 IVY CT $515,000 $495,000 4 3 2,432 DETACHD 56
17479 BROOKHURST DR $699,000 $675,000 4 2.1 3,551 DETACHD 78
13010 KNAUS RD $1,099,000 $930,000 4 3.1 4,312 DETACHD 1128
17404 BERGIS FARM DR 1297000 1065000 5 4.1 5,394 DETACHD 326

Criteria: Homes in the 97034 and 97035 zip code, listed, pending or sold between the dates listed above as reported by the Regional Multiple Listing Service (RMLS). DETACHD refers to Single Family Detached Residence, MFG refers to manufactured housing, and ATTACHD refers to single-family residences with some portion of the structure attached to another property, but not constituting CONDO ownership. DOM stands for days on market, or the number of days from when the listing became active and when it received an acceptable offer, with CDOM standing for “cumulative days on market” accounting for “refreshed” listings.

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Open Houses for Sunday, January 17, 2010

There are 23 houses that will be held open this Sunday.  It’s a nice assortment that represents a wide range of prices, sizes, ages and options.  If you are inclined to want to spend an hour or two looking at houses, you should find some good options.

Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type Open
323 CERVANTES $175,000 2 2 1,265 CONDO 1 to 3
5225 Jean RD $179,900 2 2 1,100 CONDO 1 to 3
65 GREENRIDGE CT $199,500 2 2 1,314 CONDO 1 to 4
5373 LAKEVIEW BLVD $329,500 3 1 2,176 DETACHD 2 to 4
18922 REDWING WAY $379,900 4 2 2,076 DETACHD 2 to 4
119 3RD ST $399,900 3 2 1,204 CONDO 1 to 4
4651 HASTINGS PL $454,900 4 2.1 2,215 DETACHD 1 to3
2705 SW ORCHARD HILL LN $499,350 3 2.1 2,841 DETACHD 11 to4
14279 CAMDEN LN 525000 4 2.1 2,373 DETACHD 1 to 3
4581 HASTINGS PL 574900 4 2.1 2,985 DETACHD 1 to 3
13278 ROGERS RD 695000 3 2.1 2,964 DETACHD 12 to 2
2688 RIVENDELL RD 745000 4 3 3,720 DETACHD 1 to 4
1225 LAKE GARDEN CT 829950 4 3.2 3,558 DETACHD 1 to 3
18222 SIENA DR 1088000 6 4.1 3,800 DETACHD 1 to 3
18209 SIENA DR 1178950 5 3.1 3,839 DETACHD 1 to 3
18143 SIENA DR 1197000 5 4.1 4,152 DETACHD 1 to 3
1808 RIDGE POINTE DR 1269000 5 4.1 4,155 DETACHD 1 to 3
18246 BELLA TERRA DR 1294000 4 3.1 4,196 DETACHD 1 to 3
17464 RIDGEVIEW LN 1298950 4 3.1 4,407 DETACHD 1 to 3
664 OAK MEADOW DR 1355000 4 3.1 4,198 DETACHD 1 to 3
18110 Siena DR 1394000 4 3.1 4,311 DETACHD 1 to 3
657 OAK MEADOW DR. 1395000 4 3.1 4,371 DETACHD 1 to 3
17364 RIDGEVIEW CT 1425000 4 3.1 4,436 DETACHD 1 to 3

Have a great weekend!