Lake Oswego Open Houses ~ Sunday, October 18, 2009

Sunday is supposed to be our best day of the week… i.e., Sunshine! Get out and enjoy touring some Open Houses in Lake Oswego, and give Dianne or me a call if you are not working with a Realtor and end up finding the house of your dreams! We’d be happy to represent you, and always have time for you.
There are 26 properties on tour in Lake Oswego tomorrow according to RMLS:

Address L/Price # Beds # Baths Total SF Open
4000 CARMAN DR $139,000 2 2 836 1-3PM
16250 PACIFIC HWY $209,900 3 2 1626 1-3PM
1597 BONNIEBRAE DR $216,900 2 1 998 1-3PM
17752 SCHALIT WAY $329,900 3 2 1463 1-4PM
4505 WILDWOOD ST $359,900 3 2 1720 1-3PM
15430 PARTRIDGE DR $379,000 3 2.1 2207 1-3PM
1457 BOCA RATAN DR $420,000 3 2 1568 1-4PM
119 3RD ST $429,900 3 2 1204 1:30-4PM
17886 TUALATA AVE $438,000 4 2 1994 2-4PM
2525 DELLWOOD DR $519,000 5 3 2836 12-1:30PM
3300 SOUTHSHORE BLVD $625,000 1 1.1 1162 1-4PM
13768 KNAUS RD $649,000 3 2 2358 12-1:30PM
2235 GLEN HAVEN RD $749,000 5 2 2778 1-3PM
1225 LAKE GARDEN CT $850,000 4 3.2 3558 1-3PM
14480 KRUSE OAKS BLVD $995,000 4 3.1 4661 1-5PM
18209 SIENA DR $1,178,950 4 3.1 3617 1-3PM
18143 SIENA DR $1,197,000 5 4.1 4152 1-3PM
18246 BELLA TERRA DR $1,294,000 4 3.1 4052 1-3PM
17464 RIDGEVIEW LN $1,298,950 4 3.1 4407 1-3PM
622 OAK MEADOW DR $1,325,000 4 3.1 4171 1-3PM
664 OAK MEADOW DR $1,355,000 4 3.1 4198 1-3PM
18110 Siena DR $1,394,000 4 3.1 4311 1-3PM
657 OAK MEADOW DR. $1,395,000 4 3.1 4371 1-3PM
17364 RIDGEVIEW CT $1,425,000 4 3.1 4436 1-3PM
15825 OSWEGO SHORE CT $2,248,850 3 3.1 4317 1-3PM
13961 KNAUS RD $2,450,000 4 4.2 6614 2:30-4PM

What’s Happening in Lake Oswego?

102708 Fm My DeckHere are a few local events & opportunities currently offered Lake Oswego residents.  Wish you were here?  We do too! Enjoy:

Scam Jam 2009 ~ The FBI Citizen’s Academy Alumni Association invites you to learn to protect yourself from identity theft.  Other topics to be covered include investment fraud, repair scams, financial exploitation and more. Join LOPD and take part in this free event on Saturday, October 17 at Reed College, 3203 SE Woodstock Blvd, Portland.

Unsung Hero Award ~ Lake Oswego is sponsoring this refreshing opportunity to nominate a Lake Oswego neighbor who makes a difference in the lives of those around them.  You may nominate someone by picking up a form at City Hall or by calling 503 635 0257. The deadline is October 31st.

Homecoming Parades ~

  • Lake Oswego High School’s parade: Friday, October 16th   1:30PM – 2:30PM
  • Lakeridge High School’s parade: Friday, October 23rd    2PM – 3PM

A Avenue will be closed to all eastbound traffic from Chandler to 1st Street during the parades.

Vote for Your Favorite Photo ~ Now that Lake Oswego’s first Photo Contest was a huge success, it is time to vote for your favorite of two finalists which were selected from each category.  Lake Oswego residents may vote here: VOTE! Voting closes on October 15th.

Sensitive Lands ~ Lake Oswego is offering a Workshop and FAQ site in response to the tremendous interest of citizenry in the Sensitive Lands policies under discussion now.

Market Activity Report for October 5-11, 2009

Last week brought us 14 new listings, 7 pending sales, and 13 closed sales.

Here is the latest market activity for Lake Oswego (see below the tables for additional notes):

NEWLY LISTED (Oct. 5—Oct.11, 2009)

ADDRESS
LIST PRICE
TOT. BEDS
TOT. BATHS
TOT. SQ FT
PROP TYPE
LIST DATE
Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type List Date
99 OSWEGO SMT $144,900 2 0.1 1,116 CONDO 10/7/2009
36 OSWEGO SMT $179,900 2 2 1,140 CONDO 10/11/2009
550 S STATE ST $210,000 2 1 920 CONDO 10/7/2009
7 PEACOCK PL $289,950 3 2.1 1,400 DETACHD 10/8/2009
1284 HIDE A WAY LN $369,900 4 3 1,931 DETACHD 10/5/2009
461 COUNTRY CLUB RD $395,000 2 1 1,498 DETACHD 10/5/2009
1640 WORTHINGTON ST $398,000 4 3 2,394 DETACHD 10/8/2009
119 3RD ST $429,900 3 2 1,204 CONDO 10/11/2009
6666 CHILDS RD 489900 3 1 2,034 DETACHD 10/5/2009
1575 IVY CT 515000 4 3 2,432 DETACHD 10/10/2009
275 EVERGREEN RD 600000 3 3.1 1,731 ATTACHD 10/6/2009
13888 SHIREVA DR 650000 5 3 3,756 DETACHD 10/7/2009
540 C AVE 849000 3 3.1 3,539 ATTACHD 10/9/2009
13100 BOONES FERRY RD 950000 3 2.1 3,210 DETACHD 10/9/2009

PENDING SALES (Oct. 5 -Oct. 11, 2009)

ADDRESS
LIST PRICE
TOT. BEDS
TOT. BATHS
TOT. SQ FT
PROP TYPE
DOM
Address Close Price List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type CDOM
7202 SW MONTAUK CIR $99,000 2 1 968 CONDO 74
578 S STATE $149,900 2 1 914 CONDO 343
4105 DOUGLAS WAY $266,000 7 2.1 2,856 DETACHD 501
3480 DEVONSHIRE DR $272,500 2 2.1 1,649 ATTACHD 112
4330 COUNTRY WOODS CT $280,000 3 1 1,200 DETACHD 86
18179 SW PILKINGTON RD $299,900 3 2 1,300 DETACHD 5
17518 REDFERN AVE $449,500 3 2 1,831 DETACHD 459

SOLD (Oct 5.-Oct. 11, 2009)

ADDRESS ORIG. PRICE SALE PRICE
TOT. BEDS
TOT. BATHS
TOT. SQ FT
PROP TYPE
DOM
Address O/Price Close Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type CDOM
668 MCVEY AVE $179,850 $145,000 2 1.1 976 CONDO 1022
15868 PARKER RD $187,500 $150,000 2 1 780 DETACHD 168
166 OSWEGO SMT $229,900 $199,000 2 2 1,506 CONDO 180
3290 WEMBLEY PARK RD $309,900 $282,000 5 3 2,614 DETACHD 29
45 TANGLEWOOD DR $399,999 $305,550 5 3.1 3,166 DETACHD 165
5037 CENTERWOOD ST $379,000 $330,000 3 1.1 1,340 DETACHD 98
16953 KARA LN $409,900 $415,000 4 2.1 2,614 DETACHD 10
17473 REDFERN AVE $719,950 $575,000 4 2.1 3,052 DETACHD 105
7 CELLINI CT 659000 644000 5 3.1 3,560 DETACHD 10
1670 VILLAGE PARK LN 779000 759500 4 2.1 3,466 DETACHD 53
5250 DAWN AVE 1095900 840000 4 3.1 4,333 DETACHD 836
1755 SOUTHSHORE BLVD 949000 850000 5 3.1 4,757 DETACHD 104
785 7TH ST 1290000 1100000 4 3.1 4,043 DETACHD 1327

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.

Open Houses for October 11, 2009

It’s going to be another gorgeous weekend. Here are the 26 houses that are being held open, according to the RMLS:

Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type Open
44 EAGLE CREST DR $154,900 3 2 1,085 CONDO 2 to 5
11 OSWEGO SMT $159,900 2 2 1,212 CONDO 12 to 2
3826 BOTTICELLI ST $210,000 2 2 1,055 ATTACHD 1 to 4
1547 BOCA RATAN DR $219,900 2 1.1 1,008 ATTACHD 1 to 3
4774 OAKRIDGE RD $365,000 3 1 2,104 DETACHD 1 to 3
1284 HIDE A WAY LN $369,900 4 3 1,931 DETACHD 1 to 3
1640 WORTHINGTON ST $398,000 4 3 2,394 DETACHD 1 to 4
4 ICARUS LOOP $449,000 4 2.1 2,743 DETACHD 1 to 3
3745 TEMPEST DR 479500 4 3 2,573 DETACHD 2:30 to 4:30
106 GREENRIDGE CT 489000 4 3 3,127 CONDO 1 to 5
6666 CHILDS RD 489900 3 1 2,034 DETACHD 2 to 4
3254 DUNCAN DR 500000 4 3.1 3,997 DETACHD 2 to 4
4018 COHO LN 539000 3 2 2,489 DETACHD 1 to 4
34 HILLSHIRE DR 598000 3 2.1 3,822 DETACHD 12 to 2
15837 ALLISON PL 599000 4 2.1 3,534 DETACHD 1 to 4
3300 SOUTHSHORE BLVD 625000 1 1.1 1,062 DETACHD 2 to 4
18143 SIENA DR 1197000 5 4.1 4,152 DETACHD 1 to 3
624 ATWATER RD 1270000 5 3.1 4,858 DETACHD 1 to 3
18246 BELLA TERRA DR 1294000 4 3.1 4,052 DETACHD 1 tp 3
17464 RIDGEVIEW LN 1298950 4 3.1 4,407 DETACHD 2 tp 4
622 OAK MEADOW DR 1325000 4 3.1 4,171 DETACHD 2 to 4
664 OAK MEADOW DR 1355000 4 3.1 4,198 DETACHD 2 to 4
18110 Siena DR 1394000 4 3.1 4,311 DETACHD 1 tp 3
657 OAK MEADOW DR. 1395000 4 3.1 4,371 DETACHD 2 to 4
17364 RIDGEVIEW CT 1425000 4 3.1 4,436 DETACHD 2 to 4
13961 KNAUS RD 2450000 4 4.2 6,614 DETACHD 2:30 to 4

Have a great weekend!

8K Tax Credit

The buzz in real estate right now is the $8000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers. While there is talk of the credit being extended, at this point that is an unknown. This puts pressure on anyone thinking that they may want to take advantage of it.  In order to benefit, you must close on your purchase by November 30th. Because putting a loan in place now takes about 45 days, and because there is a long holiday weekend for Thanksgiving, a buyer who is going to receive this credit needs to make an offer on a home in the next week or so.

This has got me reflecting on what sort of a home I would be interested in if I were in a position to take advantage of this opportunity. After going through the current inventory in Lake Oswego, here are 4 properties that I believe are great homes that would be ideal for a first-time buyer.

Kingsgate113 Kingsgate Rd Priced at $275,000, this house has 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and a 2-car attached garage.  It’s located on the South slope of Mountain Park, so it is really convenient to the Kruse Way corridor, I-5, and Hwy 217.  Oak Creek Elementary School is just down the street, and PCC Sylvania Campus is close by.  While the lot is smaller (about 4000 square feet) it is extremely private.  So you can have the easy care of a small yard, but the benefit of privacy.  That’s a tough combination to find.  Probably the most striking feature of the house (besides the master on the main, the hardwood floors, the wet bar, and the gas fireplace) is the 2-story vaulted ceiling.  Architecturally, this house is wonderful and unique.  This is not a cookie-cutter house.  When you walk in the door, you will say “Wow”.

kingsgate2

Goldendiningroom4447 Golden Lane Priced at $229,000, this is an end-unit condo with 2 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and a 2-car, attached garage.  It has expansive South facing windows so that the interior is light and bright even on those short, winter days.  The kitchen has new granite counters and there are new laminate floors.  Like the property above, this home is on the South slope of Mountain Park.  Living in this location, you benefit from the Mountain Park recreational facilities.  There are 15 miles of walking trails, tennis courts, a swimming pool and a weight room.  Living in a condominium means that you don’t have to take care of a yard or worry about maintenance of the exterior.  It’s ideal for someone with a busy job or who likes to travel a lot.

Tree Rd15139 Tree Rd Priced at $298,900, this house has 3 bedrooms , 2 full baths, and a 2-car garage.  It’s in a great location at the end of a dead-end street.  There are hardwood floors throughout.  It has a formal living room, but what I like is the openness of the greatroom for the kitchen, dining room, and family room.  There is a masonry fireplace made with used bricks that is warm and inviting.  I like to point out to anyone buying a one level home that the demand for these homes will only increase.  As the population ages, the need for homes that appeal to older people is going to get bigger.  So I do believe that one-level homes make great investments.

Tree Rd 2

18690 Don Lee Way Priced at $299,000, this house has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a 2-car garage.  It’s on a lot that is nearly a quarter of an acre and just spectacular.  It’s in great condition with a new roof, new siding and windows, and a new furnace.  There are hardwood floors in dining room and the living room, and there are tile floors in the kitchen and in the entry.  The kitchen and both bathrooms have been updated.  The fireplace has a very classy looking slate surround and built-ins on both sides.

Don Lee WayI think what is striking about all of these houses is what good condition they are all in.  Under $300,000 in Lake Oswego is the lower end of the pricing spectrum.  You would normally think that this would also mean that you have to compromise by buying a house that perhaps needs some updating or some work to improve it.  That is not the case here.  You can buy not only an affordable home, but a home in great condition.  Add to that the fact that you can then get an $8000 tax credit from the Federal government and you are talking a perfect storm of opportunity.

I hope you have enjoyed learning about these properties.  If you would like more information, or if you’d like to make an appointment to view any of these properties, please contact Linda or myself and we would be happy to be of help to you.

Dianne

Market Activity Report ~ Sept. 28 – October 5, 2009

There were 34 properties classified in RMLS as “New” on the market last week, but only 12 of them truly are, and are listed as such for you below. We had 14 properties go to “Pending” status, and 21 “Sold”!

Ah… the beauty of the Portland area in the Fall… just the time for a new start in a new home. Lake Oswego is so gorgeous once all the leaves begin to turn. With some rain last week, we are again back to sunshine and seasonably pleasant temperatures around 69/70. Nights are getting chilly though… and there is that beautiful smell in the air. So fresh. We’ll get pictures up here for you once the leaves turn. For now, enjoy your property search/sale adventures, & don’t forget to email or call Dianne or myself if you need a Realtor and are not currently working with one. We would love to meet you.

Here is the latest market activity for Lake Oswego (see below the tables for additional notes):

NEWLY LISTED (Sept. 28—Oct.5, 2009)

ADDRESS
LIST PRICE
TOT. BEDS
TOT. BATHS
TOT. SQ FT
PROP TYPE
LIST DATE
Address List Price # Beds # Baths Total SF Prop Type List Date
3433 MCNARY PKWY $162,750 2 2.1 1,208 CONDO 10/2/2009
3826 BOTTICELLI ST $210,000 2 2 1,055 ATTACHD 10/2/2009
18179 SW PILKINGTON RD $299,900 3 2 1,300 DETACHD 10/2/2009
15430 PARTRIDGE DR $379,000 3 2.1 2,207 DETACHD 10/3/2009
2245 GLEN HAVEN RD $379,000 3 1.1 1,276 DETACHD 10/1/2009
980 C AVE $399,500 3 2 1,312 DETACHD 9/30/2009
1457 BOCA RATAN DR $445,000 3 2 1,568 DETACHD 9/28/2009
1430 CHERRY CREST DR $525,000 4 3 3,302 DETACHD 10/2/2009
827 8TH ST $898,000 5 3.1 3,852 DETACHD 9/29/2009
507 ASH ST $988,000 3 3 3,000 DETACHD 9/28/2009
2479 PALISADES CREST DR $1,495,000 4 3.1 6,640 DETACHD 9/28/2009
2201 HAZEL RD $1,550,000 4 3.1 5,446 DETACHD 10/1/2009

PENDING SALES (Sept 28 -Oct. 5, 2009)

ADDRESS
LIST PRICE
TOT. BEDS
TOT. BATHS
TOT. SQ FT
PROP TYPE
DOM
Address List Price # Beds # Baths Total SF Prop Type CDOM
7202 SW MONTAUK CIR $99,000 2 1 968 CONDO 74
3433 MCNARY PKWY $114,900 2 2.1 1,208 CONDO 142
4000 CARMAN DR $125,900 1 1 767 CONDO 38
141 OSWEGO SMT $169,900 2 2 1,140 CONDO 77
16573 BONAIRE AVE $274,900 4 2 1,560 DETACHD 43
4662 CARMAN DR $289,900 5 2 1,754 DETACHD 13
16250 Pacific Hwy (Hwy 43) $319,850 2 2 1,200 CONDO 1200
5554 ROYAL OAKS DR $399,885 3 2 1,861 DETACHD 2
2161 CREST DR $407,500 4 2.1 2,648 DETACHD 139
1032 LAUREL ST $424,000 4 2 2,384 DETACHD 86
14666 UPLANDS DR $499,000 3 2.1 2,568 DETACHD 114
95 D AVE $585,000 4 2 1,809 DETACHD 83
353 D AVE $725,000 4 2 3,228 DETACHD 749
5250 DAWN AVE $855,000 4 3.1 4,333 DETACHD 836

SOLD (Sept 28-Oct. 5, 2009)

ADDRESS ORIG. PRICE SALE PRICE
TOT. BEDS
TOT. BATHS
TOT. SQ FT
PROP TYPE
DOM
Address O/Price Close Price # Beds # Baths Total SF Prop Type CDOM
45 EAGLE CREST DR $139,900 $110,000 1 1 768 CONDO 125
3688 SPRING LN $179,900 $164,500 2 2 1,120 CONDO 81
4 TOUCHSTONE $179,500 $170,000 2 2 984 CONDO 19
5064 FOOTHILLS DR $299,900 $262,000 2 2 1,308 CONDO 63
1432 LAUREL ST $275,000 $265,000 2 1 920 DETACHD 85
17100 BRYANT RD $278,900 $310,000 3 3 2,032 DETACHD 18
605 COUNTRY CLUB RD $399,900 $317,500 4 2.1 3,422 DETACHD 163
13899 MAJESTIC CT $439,000 $360,000 3 2 2,357 DETACHD 86
17760 SW CARDINAL CT $404,900 $375,000 3 2.1 2,147 DETACHD 60
17221 ROBB PL $427,500 $380,000 3 2 1,812 DETACHD 12
14431 ORCHARD SPRINGS RD $439,900 $385,000 4 2.1 1,960 DETACHD 212
3560 TEMPEST DR $449,900 $437,875 3 2.1 2,847 DETACHD 14
4722 HASTINGS PL $489,900 $479,000 4 2.1 2,151 DETACHD 505
6110 CHILDS RD $550,000 $482,000 4 3 3,258 DETACHD 138
14412 MEADOW GRASS ST $500,000 $490,000 4 2.1 3,563 DETACHD 412
17473 REDFERN AVE $719,950 $575,000 4 2.1 3,052 DETACHD 105
5421 Bay Creek DR $649,500 $580,000 4 2.1 3,241 DETACHD 138
17386 BLUE HERON RD $679,000 $650,000 4 3.1 4,063 DETACHD 796
18051 KELOK RD $899,000 $799,000 5 3.1 3,670 DETACHD 401
17878 HILLSIDE DR $895,000 $855,000 5 3 3,462 DETACHD 34
301 IRON MOUNTAIN BLVD $1,150,000 $950,000 4 3.2 3,004 DETACHD 125

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.

Lake Oswego Open Houses ~ Sunday, October 4, 2009

Gorgeous day today (Sat)… Gorgeous day tomorrow!
Is it Fall? Yes. Could there be a few raindrops in between the blinding sunshine? Yes! Is it fun to take in the change of season? Absolutely! (sorry for all the exclamations… against all my better judgement that says “winter is coming…” I really enjoy Fall : )
We have 29 properties on tour in Lake Oswego tomorrow according to RMLS. Get out & enjoy!

Address L/Price Bdrms Total Bath Total SF Open
4000 CARMAN DR $165,000 2 2 1100 11-1:30PM
1597 BONNIEBRAE DR $216,900 2 1 998 1-3 PM
16250 PACIFIC HWY $229,900 3 2 1626 1-3PM
192 RIDGEWAY RD $235,000 2 1 1659 1-3PM
17752 SCHALIT WAY $329,900 3 2 1463 2-4PM
566 5TH ST $448,000 3 2 2177 1-3PM
106 GREENRIDGE CT $489,000 4 3 3127 1-3PM
939 SUNNY HILL DR $495,000 4 2.1 3254 1-3PM
4672 AUBURN LN $513,000 3 3.1 2732 1-3PM
2525 DELLWOOD DR $519,000 5 3 2836 2:30-4PM
580 WEIDMAN CT $659,000 5 3.1 3952 1-3PM
9 HIDALGO ST $670,000 4 4.2 4698 1-3PM
16705 GLENWOOD CT $749,000 4 3 4243 12-3PM
108 3RD ST $799,000 1 1 975 1-4PM
106 3RD ST $799,900 2 2 1495 1:30-4PM
14480 KRUSE OAKS BLVD $995,000 4 3.1 4661 1-5PM
1920 GLENMORRIE DR $995,000 3 2.2 4284 1-4PM
18143 SIENA DR $1,197,000 5 4.1 4152 1-3PM
8 DOVER WAY $1,249,000 6 4.2 6244 1-3PM
18246 BELLA TERRA DR $1,294,000 4 3.1 4052 1-3PM
17464 RIDGEVIEW LN $1,298,950 4 3.1 4407 2-4PM
17282 LAKE HAVEN DR $1,299,000 4 2.1 3662 12-2:30PM
622 OAK MEADOW DR $1,325,000 4 3.1 4171 2-4PM
664 OAK MEADOW DR $1,355,000 4 3.1 4198 2-4PM
18110 Siena DR $1,394,000 4 3.1 4311 1-3PM
657 OAK MEADOW DR. $1,395,000 4 3.1 4371 2-4PM
17364 RIDGEVIEW CT $1,425,000 4 3.1 4436 2-4PM
100 3RD ST $1,950,000 3 3.1 3600 1-4PM
2572 GLEN EAGLES PL $2,395,000 5 4.2 6490 12-3PM

Notes & Scribbles

Tax Credit ~ The First-Time Home-Buyers’ $8,000.  Tax Credit is, of course, the talk of the town (the nation, actually). It is acknowledged that it is and has been helpful in spurring the real estate market (activity in related price ranges is steady if not occasionally feverish… especially lately!)   There is much talk about extending the deadline from the current November 30th date to an as-yet-undetermined date in 2010.  While it is generally agreed that the housing market is turning the corner, and a large part of this growth is related to the tax credit, there is also concern being expressed about dispersing more government money in light of recent history.  So… nothing is decided as of now. There are talks about plans to:

  • Extend it to all home-buyers,
  • Not extend it at all,
  • Increase it to $15,000.,
  • Extend it and keep the terms the same,
  • Offer it only to service members who have been out of the country,
  • Etc.

The important thing to remember if you are a first-time home-buyer, or care about one, is that right now there is an opportunity to get an $8,000. tax credit. That means real money coming to you when you file for 2009.  We do NOT know how the debate will play out regarding extending or not extending it… AND right now there is still time to take advantage of it, but you must act now.

Oil Tanks (Reminder & Update) ~ The standards for levels of contaminants are under review. In particular, ethyl benzene and naphthalene have been changed to a “carcinogenic” classification, and therefore cleanup requirements are also changing. There is now concern over the possibility of  fumes potentially penetrating a home from underground & causing harm. Remember, if you have an oil tank underground on your property that has not been decommissioned, or if you are a Buyer considering a property with one: Underground oil tanks have a life of approximately 40 years.  After that, they leak… and what they leak is toxic.  Homeowners can be held liable for damage to soil from leaking tanks, and therefore, proper soil testing and decommissioning through a DEQ-certified environmental service is the wise choice.  If you are a Seller in this situation, I would highly recommend just doing this now and getting it out of the way.  It makes your home more attractive to potential Buyers, removes an objection, and protects you and the environment at the same time.

Loans ~ There are truly all kinds of loans out there right now for all kinds of Buyers.  FHA loans are a  current favorite, and the FHA 203 (b) is a little easier to qualify for than most conventional loans these days. There are also “Flex”  loans for teachers (administrators & school nurses can also apply!), police, and firefighters. Other than the FHA loan I mentioned, you usually want a credit score of 640 or higher, and for all of them you’ll need 3 to 3.5% down. Talk to your favorite mortgage broker for more information, or give me a call and I can refer you to some great resources.

Homes on Slopes ~ Some precautions, in light of current information gained from recent slides in Portland, Lake Oswego and surrounding areas are worth noting:

  • At no point should drain water be discharged onto slopes in an uncontrolled manner. Investigate energy dissipation devices to prevent erosion at discharge points.
  • Make sure that any fill used on the slope is “engineer-fill”.  Not all fill is able to handle the specialized drainage requirements of sloped properties.
  • Make sure gutters remain clear in order to prevent over-saturation in areas not able to handle runoff.
  • Keep drainage ditches or berms clear during the rainy season so that they do not direct water into areas where erosion & damage may occur.
  • Keep drain inlets, outlets and weep holes at foundation, retaining walls, driveways etc clean at all times.  Remove debris to prevent clogging.
  • Notice any wet spots on the property.  This may indicate either natural seepage, or leaking water or sewer line problems. Seek professional advice immediately.
  • Regularly check irrigation systems. Drip systems are preferred on hillsides.
  • Make sure roof drainage is not connected to a subsurface disposal system unless it has been approved by a geotechnical engineer.
  • Keep water from accumulating next to foundations, retaining walls or basements.
  • Guard against over-saturation on the hillside, as once this has occurred, damage can result very quickly and without warning.
  • Seek the advice of a good Engineering firm. One source is:  GeoPacific Engineering, Inc.

Market Activity Report for September 21-27, 2009

Last week brought 17 new listings onto the market, 17 pending sales, and 9 closed sales. Of note, at least to me, is that 2 of the closed sales were condos in the 555 building on Second Street. That development is high-end condos that are all on one-level and accessed by elevators. They are ideal for someone downsizing out of their big house for retirement. It’s a great location that is walking distance to downtown, the farmer’s market, the library, and the Adult Community Center. I think the condo market has taken a worse beating in this downturn than the single family residential market. So it’s good to see a couple of these high-end condos selling.

Here is the latest market activity for Lake Oswego (see below the tables for additional notes):

NEWLY LISTED (Sept. 21—27, 2009)

ADDRESS
LIST PRICE
TOT. BEDS
TOT. BATHS
TOT. SQ FT
PROP TYPE
LIST DATE
Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type List Date
47 EAGLE CREST DR $119,900 2 1 932 CONDO 9/25/2009
3930 LAKE GROVE AVE $144,900 2 1 952 CONDO 9/26/2009
15 OSWEGO SMT $169,900 2 2 1,212 CONDO 9/24/2009
18462 DON LEE WAY $239,500 4 2 1,904 DETACHD 9/22/2009
5056 FOOTHILLS DR $299,900 2 2 1,252 CONDO 9/21/2009
1709 ASPEN CT $317,000 3 2 1,561 DETACHD 9/23/2009
18620 INDIAN CREEK DR $424,000 3 2 2,046 DETACHD 9/23/2009
1790 YARMOUTH CIR $424,995 2 2 1,473 DETACHD 9/21/2009
4 ICARUS LOOP $449,000 4 2.1 2,743 DETACHD 9/27/2009
17336 HUNTER CT $549,900 3 2.1 3,004 DETACHD 9/24/2009
1060 UPPER DEVON LN $674,900 3 2.1 2,460 DETACHD 9/23/2009
5124 ROSEWOOD ST $685,950 5 3.1 3,510 DETACHD 9/23/2009
18096 PILKINGTON RD $749,000 4 2.1 3,200 DETACHD 9/23/2009
467 9th ST $775,000 3 2.1 2,700 DETACHD 9/25/2009
453 9th ST $775,000 3 2.1 2,700 DETACHD 9/25/2009
2445 GLENMORRIE DR $1,495,000 4 5 4,663 DETACHD 9/22/2009
1870 TWIN POINTS RD $2,200,000 4 3 4,448 DETACHD 9/22/2009

PENDING SALES (Sept 21 -27, 2009)

ADDRESS
LIST PRICE
TOT. BEDS
TOT. BATHS
TOT. SQ FT
PROP TYPE
DOM
Address Close Price List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type CDOM
340 CERVANTES CIR $110,000 2 1.1 912 CONDO 122
32 OSWEGO SMT $124,900 1 1 752 CONDO 497
86 KINGSGATE RD $138,000 2 2 924 CONDO 172
45 EAGLE CREST DR $139,900 1 1 768 CONDO 125
73 OSWEGO SMT $164,900 2 2 1,212 CONDO 409
458 STATE ST $199,900 2 1 800 CONDO 122
195 OSWEGO SMT $219,900 2 2 1,506 CONDO 343
16651 LAKE FOREST BLVD $239,900 3 1 1,230 DETACHD 237
16650 Fir LN $325,000 3 2 1,384 DETACHD 20
2961 DELLWOOD DR $350,000 3 3 2,476 DETACHD 192
17622 BROOKHURST DR $350,000 4 2.1 2,909 DETACHD 429
627 1ST ST $399,000 2 2 2,090 DETACHD 241
1531 WOODLAND TER $414,000 3 2.1 1,895 DETACHD 139
13531 FIELDING RD $650,000 4 3.1 4,629 DETACHD 463
5329 Langford LN $719,000 3 2.1 2,962 DETACHD 302
1708 VILLAGE PARK LN $899,000 4 2.1 3,211 DETACHD 13
17211 KELOK RD $1,399,000 3 3.1 5,384 DETACHD 112

SOLD (Sept 21-27, 2009)

ADDRESS ORIG. PRICE SALE PRICE
TOT. BEDS
TOT. BATHS
TOT. SQ FT
PROP TYPE
DOM
Address O/Price Close Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type CDOM
17928 ROYAL CT $299,900 $267,250 3 2 1,272 DETACHD 111
4 WHEATHERSTONE $334,950 $330,000 3 2.1 1,692 CONDO 86
126 CONDOLEA DR $549,000 $391,500 3 3 2,664 CONDO 680
559 2ND ST $665,115 $580,000 2 2 1,529 CONDO 923
20 DA VINCI ST $599,900 $585,000 5 3 3,089 DETACHD 25
575 2ND ST $832,200 $592,300 2 2.1 1,752 CONDO 887
100 GARIBALDI ST $1,349,900 $925,000 5 3.2 4,669 DETACHD 334
1149 LAKESHORE RD $1,295,000 $1,115,000 4 2.1 2,660 DETACHD 143
128 NORTHSHORE CIR $1,799,000 1290000 3 3.1 3,550 DETACHD 764

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.

Open Houses for Sunday September 27th, 2009

Sunday is going to be a great day to visit some open houses. We are enjoying a wonderful Indian Summer so the temperature will be pretty much perfect with plenty of sunshine and 28 houses being held open for your viewing pleasure.

62nd front2In particular I want to point out a progressive open house tour being held in Southwood Park. 5 homes are being held open within just a couple of blocks of each other, including my listing at 13638 SW 62nd. Remember that this neighborhood is in unincorporated Clackamas County (which means low taxes), but has Lake Oswego Schools (great for kids and re-sale values). My listing was price reduced this last week from $319,900 to $299,900. That is for a house with 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, two family rooms, and a 21 x 11 utility room. It needs some cosmetic updating, but has a 50 year metal roof, new windows, and new paint inside and out. If you visit all 5 houses on the tour, your will receive a $5 Starbuck’s gift card. Watch for hellium balloons and lots of open house signs. You’ll find my signs on Lesser Dr to follow them in to the property.

Address List Price # BR # BTHS Total SF Prop Type Open
1547 BOCA RATAN DR $219,900 2 1.1 1,008 ATTACHD 1 to 3
13363 SW 64TH AVE $264,900 3 1.1 1,120 DETACHD 1 to 4
13561 SW 62ND AVE 269000 – 289000 3 1.1 1,594 DETACHD 1 to 4
13638 SW 62ND AVE $299,900 4 3 2,268 DETACHD 1 to 4
17752 SCHALIT WAY $329,900 3 2 1,463 DETACHD 2 to 4
13448 SW 61ST AVE $335,000 3 3 1,911 DETACHD 1 to 4
13224 SW 63RD AVE $338,000 4 2.1 1,694 DETACHD 1 to 4
9 DA VINCI ST $399,900 3 2 1,768 DETACHD 12 to 2
14371 SHERBROOK PL $495,000 3 2.1 2,550 DETACHD 2 to 4
3254 DUNCAN DR $500,000 4 3.1 3,997 DETACHD 2 to 4
2525 DELLWOOD DR $519,000 5 3 2,836 DETACHD 12 to 2
4018 COHO LN $539,000 3 2 2,489 DETACHD 1 to 4
11 MORNINGVIEW CIR $547,000 3 2.1 2,921 DETACHD 1 to 3
14867 TWIN FIR CT $579,000 6 3.1 3,641 DETACHD 2 to 4
2545 DELLWOOD DR $599,000 5 3.1 3,843 DETACHD 2:30 to 4:30
1040 UPPER DEVON LN $649,000 3 2.1 2,640 DETACHD 2 to 5
2044 RIDGEWOOD RD $799,000 4 2 2,519 DETACHD 2 to 4
1809 HEADLEE LN $1,125,000 2 2.1 3,836 DETACHD 1 to 3
18143 SIENA DR $1,197,000 5 4.1 4,152 DETACHD 1 to 3
18246 BELLA TERRA DR $1,294,000 4 3.1 4,052 DETACHD 1 to 3
17464 RIDGEVIEW LN $1,298,950 4 3.1 4,407 DETACHD 2 to 4
622 OAK MEADOW DR $1,325,000 4 3.1 4,171 DETACHD 2 to 4
664 OAK MEADOW DR $1,355,000 4 3.1 4,198 DETACHD 2 to 4
18110 Siena DR $1,394,000 4 3.1 4,311 DETACHD 1 to 3
657 OAK MEADOW DR. $1,395,000 4 3.1 4,371 DETACHD 2 to 4
17364 RIDGEVIEW CT $1,425,000 4 3.1 4,436 DETACHD 2 to 4
2572 GLEN EAGLES PL $2,395,000 5 4.2 6,490 DETACHD 12 to 3
13961 KNAUS RD $2,450,000 4 4.2 6,614 DETACHD 3 to 4:30

Enjoy the day and please take advantage of the progressive open house tour in Southwood Park.