Portland Downtown Living

Portland - One of the worlds top five cities

2012-01-27T09:24:00.000-08:00

In an article on the world\'s top five cities to live, The Guardian, a UK newspaper, chooses Portland as one of the best. Read the full story here.
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A visit to Atwater Place

2012-01-17T08:33:00.000-08:00

I was visiting Atwater Place yesterday showing clients the building. While up on the 21st floor and looking out across the Willamette river, I saw snow flurries swirling all around. They were everywhere and it was a very pretty sight. When we returned to the first floor, I noticed that the weather was mostly light rain. .... at that lower elevation.

If you'd like to know more about Atwater Place and see a list of homes available for sale, please visit our web page http://bpr.com/south-waterfront-atwater-place.html .

To learn more about our team and the real estate services we provide, visit us at www.cityproperties.re.

New Listing at the John Ross

2012-01-09T21:34:00.000-08:00

We have a new listing at the John Ross tower in South Waterfront.

It's a terrific 17th floor loft with nice views of the OHSU tram, Willamette River and Mt St Helens. SOWA is a great location, very quiet, and secure. The unit features gas cooking, wood floors, and an outdoor balcony. Amenities include a large community room, elegant lobby w'concierge and fifth floor terrace patios.

The unit is approx 782 sqft and it's priced at $229,000. This is a very good value and includes a secured parking space.

Community room pictured here:

The John Ross lobby:

Please visit our website cityproperties.re for more information. To see all condos for sale at the John Ross, visit our bpr.com page for the building here.

List prices rebounding across the nation

2012-01-03T11:02:00.000-08:00

Prices are rising in Florida: Florida cities have had the largest year-over-year increases in average list prices, according to September real estate data from Realtor.com. Florida cities make up 9 of the top 10 places for highest year-over-year list price spikes, based off of August data of 2.2 million listings in 146 markets.

Why do we care about these Florida cities? Because number twelve on the list is Portland-Vancouver. So outside of Florida and Macon Ga, which placed #5 on the list, the Portland-Vancouver area is rebounding better than most of the rest of the country.

Nationwide, the average list price is $320,325, up 2.36 percent year-over-year. The Portland-Vancouver area average list price is $314,537, up 10.52 percent year-over-year.

Take advantage of our knowledge and experience. Contact us today to receive a free market analysis or to schedule a no obligation “prepare your home” walk thru with our team.

www.cityproperties.re www.bpr.com www.sllhomes.com

Case Shiller Index affects Portland Prices

2011-12-28T11:27:00.000-08:00

Portland area buyers will use the monthly Case Shiller Housing Price Index as one of their guides for determining the value of a property they consider buying. Their other major value guide is comparable sales within the past three months.

The most recent Case Shiller report showed the Portland index at 135.44. This number is approx 4.73% lower then one year ago, 9.63% lower than two years ago, and 27.38% below our market peak in July 2007.

The current index number is not our LOWEST point however. That occurred in March 2011 when we hit bottom at 132.67.

For more information on buying a home in Portland, please visit our team website - www.cityproperties.re or our popular condominium site at www.bpr.com.

Holiday Scene - Pioneer Courthouse Square

2011-12-14T08:44:00.000-08:00

For more information on downtown living, please visit our condomium web site www.bpr.com.

Holiday Open House this Thursday

2011-12-12T15:14:00.000-08:00

Please join us for an evening open house at The Strand, unit N505. We invite you to see this fabulous unit while enjoying terrific city and river views. Watch the Christmas Ships as they leave the marina and gather in front of the Strand.

When: Thursday December 15th, 4:30 - 7pm
Where: 1900 SW River Drive, Portland
The Strand, unit N505 in the North Tower

Hosted with mimosa and savory treats.

Our listing here features 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 1650 sqft, is meticulously maintained, and offered at $609,000.

For more info on The Strand, visit our popular condo site www.bpr.com or our team site at www.cityproperties.re.

Are the Holidays a Good Time to Sell

2011-12-05T13:15:00.000-08:00

Sixty percent of real estate professionals advise their sellers to list a home during the holidays because it’s a good time to sell, according to a new survey conducted by Realtor.com.

Why are the holidays such a good time to sell? Seventy-nine percent of the agents surveyed said that more serious buyers come out during the holidays, and 61 percent say less competition from other properties make it a great time to sell. Plus, 17 percent of agents say the cold weather is actually a benefit, making homes feel more cozy.

But online listing photos become even more crucial during the holiday season, according to the survey. Slightly more than half of agents say that the photos are more important because sellers tend to offer less open houses around the holidays, and so the online photos help buyers decide the properties to see and which ones to possibly bypass.

The biggest hurdles sellers face during the holidays, however, are keeping a home ready to show (clean and staged) as well as winter weather conditions and buyers’ vacation schedules, the Realtor.com survey found.

To learn more about our team and how we can help you prepare a house to sell, please visit our cityproperties.re page related to selling.

Source: “Survey Data Reveals Majority of Real Estate Professionals Recommend Clients List Their Homes During the Holidays,” Realtor.com (Dec. 2, 2011)

Portland Poised for Growth

2011-11-29T13:12:00.000-08:00

Even though the U.S. economy continues to be challenged, Portland appears to be holding its own and showing improvement in the residential housing market. Like the rest of the country Portland has experienced its own bumps and bruises but we’re starting to see some positive signs and improvement in the market. Fortunately, Portland enjoys superb livability and lifestyle which positions us to emerge even stronger as the market continues to heal itself.

In the Portland market, this year has resembled the activity in 2010 until this fall where we’ve seen a positive shift in sales activity. A couple of recent market statistics for the Portland metro area that indicate buyers and sellers are reaching agreement at increased levels are as follows:

1. Closed sales were up 14.1 percent in October 2011 compared to October 2010.

2. Pending sales went up 15.1 percent year over year with 22 percent fewer newly listed properties on the market.

Below are several market drivers that support the improving picture:

• Interest rates: lowest rates in recorded history,

• Inventory: With 6.8 months of total remaining inventory, Portland is at its lowest level in several years.

• Affordability: The current median home price of $223,900 is back to the 2004 level power has shifted substantially.

• Job growth: Oregon is currently ranked 13th out of 50 states for job growth, one ahead of Massachusetts and one behind Washington. Such growth means that demand will only continue to increase.

If you'd like to talk with us about buying or selling a home in the Portland area, please contact us.

Just Sold - Two bedroom unit at The Metropolitan

2011-11-29T09:23:00.000-08:00

Our City Properties Group recently sold unit #410 at The Metropolitan representing the sellers. This lovely 2 bedroom unit with 1636 sqft, upgraded interiors, fireplace, view terrace, and 2 parking spaces sold for $760,000 or approx $465 per sqft.

Contact us today to receive a free market analysis or to schedule a no obligation “prepare your home” walk thru with John and Dianne.

To learn more about the group and our process for selling a house, please see our website - www.cityproperties.re. For information on condos for sale in the downtown area, visit our popular condo site - bpr.com.

Small Penthouse Sold at The Benson

2011-11-21T11:08:00.000-08:00

Unit 2603 has sold at The Benson in downtown Portland for a price of $675,000. This is the first sale for this unit and at 1010 sq ft, it sold for a price of $668 per sqft. The unit does have two parking spaces and an amazing view. The penthouse was designed By Henry Brown of Bedford Brown and had many deluxe features. The Benson tower is nicely located in the downtown Cultural district with easy access to the Park Blocks, theaters, and museums.

For more information on The Benson, please visit our website www.bpr.com.

Sellers: Price it right

2011-11-21T10:55:00.000-08:00

According to an article in Money Magazine, the longer you can wait for prices to stabilize in your area and for demand to pick up, the less likely you'll need to entertain low-ball offers. If you have to make a move in 2012, though, the trick will be to price your home correctly out of the gate.

According to a recent national survey of real estate agents, 75% of homeowners believe their house is worth more than what agents put the fair market value at, and nearly one in two homeowners still overestimate their home's value by more than 10%.

Meanwhile, Trulia reports that about one in four homes in its database has gone through at least one price reduction, and the average price cut for those homes is 8%.

Joe Magdziarz, president of the Appraisal Institute, says you and your agent should stick with comparable sales data just within the past 90 days, as that's what lenders expect appraisers to use.

Source: CNN Money, November 14, 2011.

For more information about our team and how we can help you buy or sell real estate in the Portland area, please visit our two popular websites: www.cityproperties.re and www.bpr.com.

New info on home buyers

2011-11-17T16:29:00.000-08:00

The National Association of Realtors recently completed a study of today's home buyers and sellers. Home buyers are staying well within their means with notably higher incomes and modestly higher down payments than buyers in the previous year due to the restrictive mortgage credit environment, despite historically favorable housing affordability conditions.

Paul Bishop, NAR vice president of research, clarified the impact of unnecessarily restrictive mortgage credit. “The bar has been raised to qualify for a loan. Buying your first home has never been particularly easy, but with record-high housing affordability conditions and a pent-up demand, we normally would expect a stronger performance,” he said. “This underscores how important it is to open the credit spigot for creditworthy buyers – banks simply need to get back into the business of lending. Higher home sales would help create jobs through related economic activity.”

Fifty-four percent of first-time buyers financed with a low-down payment FHA mortgage, and 6 percent used the VA loan program which requires no down payment.

If you are interested in knowing more about this subject or would like to have a referral to a lender in our area, please send me an email or a note. You can contact me thru our web site www.cityproperties.re.

Pearl Townhome for sale

2011-11-15T14:23:00.000-08:00

One of the Pearl District brick town houses on NW 11th Street has come on the market. It's beautifully built and wonderfully decorated. Many people see and appreciate these unique homes and want to be informed when they become available. This unit is 2000 sqft on two levels. Our team recently sold the last unit that came on the market and we're hoping to be able to sell this one too. The asking price is $1,325,000. It's listed by another firm but we can show it and help you make a purchase.

For more information, please visit our website www.bpr.com. A feature page for this condo is located here: Pearl Townhouse.

Listing at The Strand with City and River Views

2011-11-09T07:40:00.000-08:00

We have a fabulous listing on the downtown waterfront at The Strand. It's unit #505 in the north tower and features awesome views. Lights twinkle from downtown office towers, waterfront locations, and several river bridges. The location is close to the park where many waterfront activities occur. This two bedroom, two bath luxury condo has contemporary styling and is immaculately maintained. The Strand offers underground parking, a riverside location, and concierge service.

For more information on this condo listing and a link to the virtual tour, please visit our websites bpr.com or cityproperties.re.

New listing at the Pearl Lofts

2011-11-03T17:06:00.000-07:00

We have a new Pearl District listing at the Pearl Lofts... unit #204. This is a luxurious remodeled town home with designer finishes. It features premium kitchen appliances with custom oak cabinets.

The condo has 2 bedrooms, two full baths, a bonus room that can be used as an office/den and authentic oak hardwood floors. Bathrooms feature premium fixtures and custom cabinets. Large open plan living/dining with tall ceilings. It's also wired for home theater in the living room space. This condo comes with a private, one car garage with attic storage.

It's well priced at $570,000.

Learn more about the building and the condo at our website page http://bpr.com/pearl-district-lofts-pearl-lofts.html

Sales picking up

2009-06-01T11:26:00.000-07:00

Condominium sales are picking up this quarter. During the month of May, sixty one units went under contract (sale pending). This continues an upward trend that began in March.

So far we've seen 81 condo sales close over the past two months. Another sign of improvement compared to the end of last year and the beginning of this year.

Buses return to the downtown mall

2009-05-22T09:11:00.001-07:00

Beginning this Sunday, buses will return to their normal routes along the downtown mall. Transit mall upgrades are now complete to support the new Max Green Line. For about two years now, buses have been shifted over to Fourth Avenue and Third Avenue while construction was taking place. Now, they return to the Fifth and Sixth Avenue pattern.

Big change for motorists though. Right turns on Fifth and Sixth avenues are no longer allowed with one exception, Sixth Ave at Harrison. Plan accordingly or else you will be making three left turns to arrive at your destination.

The new Max line will begin operations in the fall.

picture from trimet.org web site

Current Real Estate Market News

2009-05-20T10:51:00.000-07:00

Portland Real Estate market showed signs of improvement in April. Below are some of the highlights as reported by the Real Estate Association.

Pending sales for April were 13.6% higher then March.

Closed sales for April were up 10% from March.

Pending sales for 2009 are rising at a faster rate then they did in 2008 - 13.6% vs 6.8%.

Inventory levels continue to decline. Now at 11 months vs 19.2 months in January.

While we are still at levels lower then last year, we are clearly on the upswing.

Below is an interesting chart from RMLS. It shows the average number of times homes are shown for each day of the week. Clearly Saturday is the most popular day to view houses while Monday is the least preferred.

Save the Coliseum ... Not

2009-05-14T09:05:00.000-07:00

Time for me to chip in on the Memorial Coliseum debate.

I find it interesting that we have been thinking and planning for years to find a use for this old building and now that we finally have a really good idea, i.e. a new baseball stadium, the plan gets thrown out by our mayor.

I have lived in Portland since 1991 and ever since I moved here, I've been hearing about how old and outdated the coliseum was. We built a new sports arena called the Rose Garden to solve that problem, then began to figure out how to make the remaining area vibrant and attractive. Ten or more years later, we still have the same old building, vacated restaurant spaces, and a completely failed entertainment zone.

This dying area has been off the radar for years as no one seemed to care... not the city nor the Trailblazers. Now along comes a terrific plan to move minor league baseball onto the site of the old coliseum. Baseball games bring people who are ready to spend some money. We have the mass transit in place, the parking in place, the views of downtown in place... everything you could want to create a vibrant and sustainable entertainment district. It makes perfect sense.

But wait, a group of architects and people who love old buildings say not so fast. Can't take it down. It has significant value as an example of modern arena design. The mayor listens, kills the baseball plan. He calls for yet another planning session - as if the last dozen or so were somehow flawed or incomplete... there has to be an even better idea.

Lets face it Portland, the coliseum is old, outdated, and serves no useful function. It is not a catalyst.... it's a dinosaur.

I love old buildings as much as anyone but I am also a financial realist. The city needs to create forward momentum for the Rose Quarter to achieve it's potential. Baseball yes, Coliseum no.

Maybe those intent on maintaining the status quo could figure out a way to move the old building to Lents where we can all look at and admire it for it's beauty.

Rules for new Mortgage Modification Program.

2009-05-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

A recent article in Realty Times talked about how a person could qualify for the new Home Mortgage Modification program. Below is an excerpt from that article:

The Treasury Department recently released its Home Affordable Modification Program Guidelines (part of its Making Home Affordable initiative), which include eligibility requirements to determine which homeowners qualify for relief under the plan. Following are the eligibility requirements as specified in the guidelines:

Mortgage must have originated on or before January 1, 2009.
Home must be an owner-occupied primary residence – this program is not designed for investor-owned properties.
Home must be a single family 1-4 unit property (including condominium, cooperative, and manufactured home affixed to a foundation and treated as real property under state law).
Home may not be vacant or condemned.
Borrowers in bankruptcy are not automatically excluded from consideration.
Borrowers in active litigation regarding the mortgage loan can qualify for a modification without waiving their legal rights.
First lien loans must have an unpaid principal balance (prior to capitalization of arrearages) equal to or less than:
1. 1 Unit: $729,750
2. 2 Units: $934,200
3. 3 Units: $1,129,250
4. 4 Units: $1,403,400
Foreclosure actions are suspended (not cancelled) during the trial period or while borrowers are considered for alternative foreclosure prevention options. If homeowners fail to qualify, foreclosure proceedings may resume.
No minimum or maximum LTV ratio for eligibility purposes.
Loans are eligible for only one loan modification under the program.
Subordinate liens (such as second mortgages or home equity loans or lines of credit) are not included in the Front-End DTI calculation, but they are included in the Back-End DTI calculation. Back-End DTI is used to determine whether the borrower will be required to undergo credit counseling as a condition to modification.
Servicers should follow any existing express contractual restrictions with respect to solicitation of borrowers for modifications. Applicants will be accepted into the program only until December 31, 2012 (the program expiration date), but incentive payments will continue up to five years after the date of entry into the Home Affordable Modification Program. Monitoring will continue through the life of the program.

Source: Realty Times

Picture of the Week

2009-05-06T08:02:00.001-07:00

Portland's Waterfront Park last weekend.

Condominium Sales Continue to Improve

2009-05-05T15:49:00.000-07:00

We are seeing some signs of improvement in the downtown condo market right now. During the month of April, 32 condo units closed escrow. That's compared to 72 for the entire first quarter of the year.

But even better news is that during April, 47 units went "Sale Pending". Clearly buyers are now willing to write offers and move forward with purchase plans.

Astronomy Day at OMSI

2009-05-01T07:59:00.000-07:00

Saturday, at OMSI, is Astronomy Day. Visitors will learn about meteorites, constellations, universe and telescopes.

Astronomy Day 2009 is a world-wide event designed to promote International Year of Astronomy 2009. Local astronomy representatives will be at OMSI during the celebration, including the Rose City Astronomers Club, Oregon Parks and Recreation, Vancouver Sidewalk Astronomers, and more.

According to wikipedia, this event was started in 1973 by Doug Berger, the president of the Astronomical Association of Northern California. His intent was to set up various telescopes in busy urban locations so that passersby could enjoys views of the heavens. Since then the event has expanded and is now sponsored by a number of organizations associated with astronomy.

Photo by Tony Rowell / Astrophotostore.com

Wondering who owns your Mortgage?

2009-04-28T09:55:00.000-07:00

Many people are finding out now that the bank who made their mortgage loan is no longer the bank who owns it. While that bank may still service the loan, the actual owner may be layers deep in the mortgage market. Knowing who owns you loan is important if you want to renegotiate the terms or discuss a short sale.

According to Realty Times, "You should be able to call the phone number on your last mortgage statement or the number in your payment coupon book and connect directly with your lender. More often than not, this merely puts you in touch with the servicer – the business that collects and processes your payments. In some cases, the servicer is prohibited from divulging the true identity of your lender. In other cases, the person you're dealing with has no idea who your lender is.

Mortgages are often sliced and diced and repackaged into mortgage backed securities (MBS's) that are sold and traded on Wall Street.

To add to the confusion, the mortgage meltdown sank many banks and other lending institutions which were taken over by other banks or regulators.

So, what should you do if you're trying to track down your lender? Take the following approach:

1. Call the phone number on your most recent mortgage statement or your payment coupon book. This will put you in touch with the servicer who may also be the lender who owns your mortgage or at least be able to tell you the name of your lender. (Remember, the person may not know or may not be permitted to tell you.)

2. If you have an FHA loan, contact FHA's National Servicing Center to determine who owns your mortgage:
(800) CALL- FHA / (800) 225- 5342
Email hsg-lossmit@hud.gov

3. You can try to contact Fannie Mae. If they own the note, they may provide the identity of the investor: 1-800-7FANNIE (1-800-732-6643).

4. If the mortgage is listed as MOM or has a MIN (Mortgage Identification Number) assigned to it, you can search the MERS database by mortgage identification number (MIN), your name and social security number, or the property's address. Dial the toll-free MERS Servicer Identification System at 888-679-6377 (an automated touch-tone system) or search online.

5. If you know the name of the bank or other lending institution that owns your mortgage but have no contact information for them, check out Hope Now .

One of the most important steps to saving your home from foreclosure is to get in touch with your lender immediately. Better yet, hire a qualified attorney with experience in foreclosures and loan modifications to contact your lender on your behalf, so you have legal representation on your side."

Source: Realty Times

Earth Day

2009-04-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

Today is Earth Day, and in Portland this is a very important and meaningful day. As one of North America's leading green cities there is a lot of attention paid to treating our planet with respect and preserving our space for future generations.

At our office we are collecting used computers and electronic devices for ecological recycling. This morning, my wife, Dianne, and I attended a breakfast sponsored by Habitat for Humanity. I learned that their new Restore in Vancouver has recycled enough used building material over the last month to keep 91 tons of material out of the landfill.

Gardening has become popular again as the "bad" economy has provoked many to consider growing their own food.

Portland has a reputation of being weird. I like to think we are quirky and intelligent.

Green Roofs

2009-04-20T09:10:00.000-07:00

Our current issue of National Geographic just arrived and in it is a terrific article on green roofs. The article points out that green roofs not only provide for an environmental impact but also spiritual satisfaction. A garden on top of a building in the middle of the city. How relaxing is that?

Cities like Stuttgart, Germany and Basel, Switzerland are leaders in green roof technologies and either subsidize research or require greenery on new flat roofs.

Two US cities were mentioned - Chicago and Portland. A nice recognition of our city and state efforts to become a leader in green building practices.

You can read the article online at the National Geographic web site. Here is the link.

The photo above is of Chicago City Hall. It was taken by Diane Cook and Len Jenshel.

Downtown Condo Market Update

2009-04-15T13:06:00.001-07:00

On a quarterly basis, we monitor sales activity for condominiums in the downtown area. The results for the most recent quarter reflect the slowdown in the marketplace.

The median price for a condo has drifted downward since it's peak in December 2007. currently, the median price is $335,000 meaning half of all sales are below this number and half above. It's a decline of 8% over one year, but is equal to the the median price observed two years ago.

Quarterly sales are at the lowest number since we began collecting data in early 2004. this reflects a very low month of January and February. Sales have picked up in March and we will watch to see if this increase can be sustained.

Condominium price per square foot continues to move downward for the fourth straight quarter. This is where the most pertinent market information is found. Condominium values have dropped 19% over the past one year and are down 22% over a two year period.

Buyers are getting spending less and getting more space for the money. Below are a few charts for you statistics lovers.

Welcome Signs

2009-04-14T12:20:00.000-07:00

According to a Realty Times article passed to me by one of our faithful blog readers - "the signs are all there. Sales and pending sales of homes have turned up sharply in hard-hit markets. House prices are more affordable. Consumer confidence polls show slight but noteworthy improvements in the public's outlook".

Portland Customs House Plan

2009-04-13T09:32:00.000-07:00

Several years ago the US government made a decision too sell the historical Customs house to a local developer who planned to convert the structure to a boutique hotel. It was a great idea and won out over other competing ideas for the property including using it as a community center.

Well after waiting and waiting for remodelling activity to start, we all figured out that the project was dead. Probably the economy.

Now we have a new proposal that seems to be gaining traction. The Portland International School has submitted an application to acquire the building. It has now been approved and the school plans to use green building techniques to renovate the empty space and preserve the historical character.

Sounds like a terrific plan. Now they just need to figure out how to raise the money. The building is being be donated to the school under a federal program but the costs to update the building will run many millions of dollars.

I am hoping they can pull it off.

- To learn more about the historical significance of the Portland Customs House go to this link - Customs House.

Condominium sales picking up

2009-04-10T08:07:00.001-07:00

Condo sales in Downtown Portland seem to be picking up. In the first quarter of this year we saw only 73 unit sales close escrow. This is a very low number, about the lowest number of sales we've seen in over five years.

However; good news seems to be coming forth. In the past 30 days, there have been 47 new "pendings". These are accepted offers now in the escrow process. This is one of several pieces of positive news which will create a higher level of optimism about our local housing market.

On another bit of news, a local title company reports that 31% of downtown condo sales this year involved all cash transactions.

Saving the Morris Marks House

2009-04-09T08:18:00.000-07:00

On SW 12th Ave, in downtown, sits a relic from the past. Among modern buildings and condominium towers, is a rare Italianate House. Some call it a Mansion, but it's a two-story, single-family residence in a somewhat flamboyant style. The Morris Marks House was built in 1880 by the legendary architect Warren H. Williams and is one of two remaining residences from this prominent Portland architect.

PSU's Historical Preservation club is holding an informational meeting on April 16th, 6-8pm at West Café, 1201 SW Jefferson St Portland. They are looking for ideas on how to save the house from possible demolition. The current owners have other plans for the site and are willing to give the house to any person or group that would move it to a new location.

For more information, contact Clem Ogilby at 503-572-5323 or http://www.morrismarkshouse.com/.

Photo from Preservationdirectory.com

Chicken Farmers hatch new plan

2009-04-07T07:43:00.001-07:00

Our family loves the eggs and chicken we buy at the Hillsdale Farmers market booth, run by Kookoolan Farms. So do many others, as the egg supply runs out about fifteen minutes after the opening bell.

Recently, Kookoolan Farms owners Chrissie and Koorosh Zaerpoor announced that they are dramatically reducing the number of chickens they raise in order to pursue more natural and sustainable practices, including letting the birds spend their lives outdoors foraging on grass and insects.

The chickens will only be sold at Kookoolan Farms in Yamhill and once each month at the Hillsdale Farmers Market. Mark your calendar for April 19, the first weekend of availability in Hillsdale.

For more info on Kookoolan Farms, visit them on the web - http://www.kookoolanfarms.com/.

Source - The Oregonian

First Thursday Art Picks

2009-04-02T08:43:00.000-07:00

Below is our list for interesting exhibits for this months' first Thursday art walk.

Art Institute of Portland, 1122 NW Davis St - Top Green Projects: an exhibit of sustainable architecture and green design solutions as recognized by the American Institute of Architects and its committee on the Environment.

Bullseye Gallery, 300 NW 13th - Glassworks by Steve Klein and Michael Rogers.

Froelick Gallery, 714 NW Davis - works by Susan Seubert (Science/fiction) and Gail Tremblay (Recycled Images/Iroquois Forms)

Blackfish Gallery, 420 NW Ninth - "Blackfish is 30". Celebrating 30 years of business and still going strong.

Augen Gallery, 716 NW Davis - Selected works by Tom Miller, Sally Cleveland, and Amy Archer.

Habitat builds first LEED home in Portland

2009-04-01T08:49:00.000-07:00

My wife, Dianne Rodway, serves on the board of our local Habitat For Humanity affiliate and yesterday we attended the dedication of their latest project. This project was special because it involved the design and construction of two LEED Platinum certified homes. These homes are two of just a handful of LEED certified homes in Oregon and the first LEED homes in the "affordable" classification.

Primary sponsors for these homes were Bank of America and Walsh Construction while many others donated time and materials for these special homes.

We are told the energy efficiency of the homes actual exceeds the platinum standard. This project further demonstrates the Portland area's emergence as a leader in green construction and livability.

Earth Hour 2009 - Photo link

2009-03-31T09:41:00.000-07:00

The Boston Globe published a very interesting series of photos taken around the world during Earth Hour.

According to the Internet site Boston.com, Earth Hour "started in Sydney, Australia in 2007, and quickly grew into a global observance. More than 1,000 cities in over 80 countries observed Earth Hour 2009 on Saturday March 29th, as homes, office towers and landmarks turned off their lights for an hour starting at 8.30 pm local time to raise awareness about climate change and the threat from rising greenhouse gas emissions. Collected here are a series of before-and-after photographs - which (starting with the second one below) will fade between "on" and "off" when clicked. "

Check out the interesting photos here.

New Bike/Walking Lane for Morrison Bridge

2009-03-30T08:25:00.000-07:00

City crews will begin work this week on a new bike and walking path over the Morrison Bridge. The current configuration will be replaced by a 15 foot wide, 2-way lane on the south side of the bridge making for safer and easier crossings. This should take some of the traffic away from the Hawthorne Bridge which at times can seem like a pedestrian freeway.

Farmers Return to Downtown Portland

2009-03-27T05:37:00.000-07:00

The downtown Farmers Markets are getting back to business. The large market on the Park blocks by PSU is now in operation every Saturday thru December 19. The Wednesday market will open on April 29th and run thru the end of October while the Pearl District gathering will being in June.

Please be aware that there are new restrictions on pets. Due to over crowding and other concerns, shoppers will no longer be allowed to bring their dogs and other pets to the two South Park Blocks markets. The new pet rules are similar to those in place at farmers markets in Beaverton, Hillsdale, Seattle and San Francisco.

More information can be found at the farmers web site.

Work resumes at Waterfront Pearl

2009-03-25T11:38:00.000-07:00

According to the Portland Daily Journal of Commerce, construction work has now resumed at the Waterfront Pearl Project.

In case you didn't know, Hoffman Construction had not been paid for several months of construction activity during a period of time when the developer was renegotiating his financing package with his lenders. As a result, Hoffman stopped work and filed liens against the complex. This problem further resulted in buyer purchases being held up until the cloud hanging over the project was cleared.

The developer has now apparently received new financing and Hoffman is back on the job. Remaining tasks involve completion of the water feature surrounding the two building and general repair/touchup.

Housing Market Signs

2009-03-24T08:51:00.000-07:00

Media attention to the housing market is beginning to take a more positive spin. This may be due to the fact that we are all looking for a market floor (i.e. bottom) and trying to interpret the most recent series of activity reports. These reports are beginning too show positive signs that the housing market is getting better or at least not getting any worse.

Home sales for February were higher then last February. These sales were up quite a bit for the Western US, 24 percent. Also, in some of our worse performing markets such as San Diego and Orange County, list prices are beginning to creep upward. A sign that these markets are levelling off.

Government programs to help banks with troubled mortgage assets has been positively received by investors causing a rally on Wall Street.

It's still too early to call, but like spring, signs of life are beginning to appear around us.

Lecture: "The Civil War in Oregon"

2009-03-23T12:19:00.000-07:00

If you are a history buff would might be interested to know about a cultural event happening tomorrow, Tuesday March 24th. A lecture regarding the Civil War will be presented 7:30pm at The Newmark Theatre, Antoinette Hatfield Hall, 1111 S.W. Broadway in downtown Portland.

Speaker Robert K. Sutton is the current Chief Historian of the National Park Service. Prior to this, he served as the Superintendent of Manassas National Battlefield Park and directed the Historic Preservation and Historical Administration public history programs at Arizona State University. He has published several books, articles, and reviews on public history. One of his primary interests is preparing for the Civil War Sesquicentennial. Presented as part of the 2009 Mark O. Hatfield Distinguished Historians Forum.

See the Oregon Historical Society website for ticketing information.

Future Technology Today

2009-03-20T03:36:00.000-07:00

Touch screens are becoming an increasingly popular way to control mobile phones and other devices. How does the technology work, and where is it heading?

Perceptive Pixel (what's this?)

CD of the Week: New from U2

2009-03-19T10:45:00.000-07:00

For music lovers, there is a new CD out by U2 – No Line on the Horizon. According to the Greg Kot at the Chicago Tribune, U2 tries to “shrug off years of staleness” with its 12th album. Coming off two popular but artistically unsurprising releases, the new CD looks to “reconnect with the sense of yearning and mystery that once made it special”. While half the songs “sound as fresh as anything U2 has done in a decade,” the other half fall prey on predictability.

No Line on the Horizon isn’t meant to reinvent U2. Rather, it’s a “record about searching for meaning, but always knowing the way home.”

U2’s new music is available at amazon.com (where the album gets a four star rating), the Itunes music store, and music sellers throughout downtown Portland.

Downtown Sports Exciting

2009-03-18T08:07:00.001-07:00

Things have really taken off this week in the downtown sports scene. The Trailblazers are fighting for a playoff spot and every game is big. March Madness has arrived at the Rose Garden Arena with eight of the best college basketball teams in town for the NCAA tournament regional playoffs. On top of this, the Portland State basketball team (our own downtown university) is the Big Sky Conference champ and will play in the NCAA regionals over in the Boise.

But wait, there's more. Portland is knocking on the door of professional soccer. After lengthy discussions and a very public hearing at City Hall, a plan emerged to support our city as a possible site for a Major League Soccer expansion team. If we get it, there will be considerable changes over at the Rose Quarter as a new stadium is built and we will see another big renovation at PGE park. Look for updates on this very soon as MLS is scheduled to make it's decision in the next week or so on expansion cities.

For sports fans, this is really exciting stuff.

Monthly Real Estate Market Report

2009-03-13T08:30:00.000-07:00

The data gatherers over at RMLS just published their monthly report for February and the results are mixed. One the one hand, sales and pendings compared to prior years is still showing a downward trend BUT... compared to prior months we are seeing a slightly upward trend.

Inventory levels are down from January (a good sign). Sales and pendings are up from January (another positive sign). Average sale price and median sale price are both up compared to January (means the free fall is stopping).

It may be too early to know for sure but we could be turning the corner on this real estate bubble thing and nailing in the floor for future prosperity.

Gardening at South Waterfront

2009-03-12T15:41:00.000-07:00

The first South Waterfront community Garden planning meeting will be held next week on Tuesday, March 17th at 6pm. All South Waterfront residents are encouraged to attend. The purpose of the meeting will be to get hear information, contribute ideas and learn how to be involved in process.

The meeting will be held at Community Relations Town Home #115 in Atwater Place (entrance at street level on Gaines

Interesting First Thursday Events

2009-03-05T07:38:00.000-08:00

Tired of looking the same galleries on your First Thursday evenings? Try one or more of these interesting events tonight.

Lizard Lounge: Featuring art work from Ashley Montague and live music by Mark Twain Indians, the First Thursday Reception Party at the Lizard Lounge will benefit Mercy Corps. Join Mercy Corps volunteers to learn more about their programs and ways you can help. Enjoy complimentary beverages from Widmer Brothers Brewery, a 10% discount on Lizard Lounge merchandise and 15% of all sales are donated to Mercy Corps. Music, drink, art, shopping and philanthropy – it doesn’t get any better than this. Lizard Lounge, 1323 NW Irving, 503.416.7476.

Wine Unwind: Romantic and thought provoking photographic images of vineyards from around the world by Emma Juhli. Wine Unwind 1019 NW 11th Ave, at Lovejoy, 503.946.8482

Forever Art & The CEO’s Home: Meet International Artist, Alexander Voitsekhovsky, Here from St. Petersburg, Russia. Exhibition through March 7th. Forever Art & The CEO's Home, 828 NW Hoyt St (corner of 9th & Hoyt), 503.227.2010

Urban Wine Works: Arletha Mueller Ryan's exhibit will be on display for all to see during the entire month of March. Join us for a First Thursday reception in honor of this talented artist and enjoy her artwork while treating yourself to complimentary appetizers, live music by Alfonso Pe Benito and Bishop Creek Cellars finely crafted Pinot Noirs and Pinot Gris. Arletha Mueller Ryan will be on hand to discuss her work and reveal her barrel-top art. Join us for art, food, music and wine! (Artwork will be featured until March 31st). Urban Wineworks, 407 NW 16th Ave., 503.226.9797.

South Waterfront Neighborhood Park

2009-03-04T05:19:00.000-08:00

Work has been taking place on the developement of South Waterfront Neighborhood Park. Plans are done and a contractor has been choosen. Get ready to see action on the site soon! the new park should be fully open by October.

The park includes an Urban Gardens area, an Open Lawn area, and a Naturalized Landscape area.

Urban Gardens: A community gathering area with movable tables and chairs and a built-in bocce court, a garden retreat area with granite seat walls and a historic marker honoring the site of Portland's first cabin, and an environmental play area with a spray/play stepping stone feature and seating logs.

Naturalized Landscape: Boardwalks, naturalized plantings, undulating topography with stormwater detention, and Song Cycles public art created by Doug Hollis.

Open Lawn: Flexible space, including an 8' tall sloped landform for seating, sunning, and play.

Other Features: A variety of trees and plantings, pathways with benches, park lighting, a festival edge on Bond, electrical infrastructure for events, bicycle racks, a drinking fountain, dog waste bag dispensers, trash receptacles, and streetscape improvements.

Bicycles on the Water Front

2009-03-03T06:27:00.000-08:00

As part of Portland Parks & Recreation’s (PP&R) effort to revitalize the former McCall’s restaurant site in Waterfront Park, PP&R has leased a kiosk at the site to Albertina Kerr for three years to launch Kerr Bikes, LLC, a new venture set to open this spring.

Kerr Bikes will offer a fleet of unique bikes for unparalleled outdoor recreation, sightseeing, people watching and a touch of exercise that will enhance any leisure time experience in the park. There will be a variety of bikes to rent, such as tandem bikes, deuce coupes and surreys, offered in sizes for couples or for the entire family to share.

The new bike rental business is an employment opportunity for people with developmental disabilities who are in a Kerr program.

Kerr Bikes will be located on the north side of Hawthorne Bridge at Salmon Street Springs next to the old McCall's Restaurant in a separate kiosk.

Besides offering employment to the people Kerr serves, all the proceeds will go to benefit the programs of the nonprofit. The new project is financed in part by a $75,000 grant from Meyer Memorial Trust, which also gave an additional $100,000 in a low-interest loan.

Albertina Kerr is the leading provider of services to children, adults and families with mental health challenges and developmental disabilities. A private non-profit organization headquartered in Portland since 1907, Kerr spends more than 91 cents of every dollar to help Oregonians. Private donations and community support make this vital work possible.

-Portland Parks and Recreation website

Portland housing market ranked fourth best

2009-02-27T04:41:00.000-08:00

Forbes magazine has reviewed the latest S&P/Case-Shiller 20-city home price index which shows a record 18.5% drop from the previous year. Portland ranks as the fourth strongest market in the country.

Forbes analyzed monthly declines and year-over-year declines in home prices to determine where prices were falling fastest and where those drops were picking up momentum. It's not a good thing for San Diego that prices from November 2008 to December 2008 fell 2.13%, but as prices declined by 2.29%from October to November, and 2.44% from September to October, the speed with which prices are falling is slowing.

That slowing rate of decline — also seen in places such as Denver, Washington, D.C. and Boston — helped rank those cities as some of the stronger markets in the country.

Five best housing markets:

New York
Washington DC
Charlotte, NC
Portland, Ore
San Diego, Ca

Five worst housing market:

Las Vegas
Phoenix
Detroit
Minneapolis
San Francisco

Tip of the week ... how to make a proper cup of tea

2009-02-26T06:24:00.000-08:00

Coffee isn't the only caffeinated beverage to get the gourmet makeover. How to properly tackle tea.

Long before shorts, talls, pumpkin lattes, and frothy half-caf frappuccinos, America was a nation of tea totallers. Colonists drank black tea with abandon, renouncing it only when Britain’s unjust taxes inspired the Founding Fathers to dump their tea into the ocean. Tea didn’t completely disappear, but it was eclipsed by another caffeinated beverage.

It’s taken two centuries for tea to make a comeback, but over the past few years, the market has changed. From 1990 to 2006, wholesale tea sales more than tripled to an estimated $6.5 billion.

Brewing It Right
Just as with espresso, there are rules for making a “proper” cup of tea. First, heat the water—which isn’t as straightforward as it sounds. Experts say that you should use boiling water for black tea. For more delicate green or white tea let the water cool for a few minutes. Always add the water to the leaves instead of the reverse. How long you let the tea steep depends upon the variety and how much you’re making.

Be color-conscious
Grandma might pour it into bone china, but it doesn’t really matter what kind of cup you drink from. The only rule, according to Joe Simrany, president of the Tea Association, is that the inside should be white so that you can discern from the color of the tea that it has been properly steeped.

Leaf It Alone
When stored in an airtight container, out of direct sunlight, tea can last for quite a while. White and green teas can be stored up to a year but are best drunk relatively quickly. Darker teas tend to hold up better. Limit the amount of air in the container; a rolled-up Ziploc bag works well. Don’t bother with the refrigerator, since the leaves can pick up odors and flavors from other foods.

Source: Portfolio.com

OMSI After Dark

2009-02-25T06:26:00.000-08:00

Looking for something fun and scientific to do at night. On the fourth Wednesday of every month, OMSI puts on a special program - OMSI After Dark.

Here's your chance to shoot off water rockets, concoct chemical creations, and enjoy the wonders of OMSI with no kids in sight! Enjoy a glass of wine while learning about robots, tornados, or fossils. Have a pint of local beer while exploring the exhibits. Talk to a baker about the science behind bread, or taste the complexity of coffee.

OMSI After Dark is an opportunity for the 21-and-over crowd to explore the museum in a child-free environment. Visitors will also be able to taste and learn the science behind food and beverage favorites with local artisans. The OMSI Market Cafe will be open and cash bars will also be available for those who want more than just a taste!

Special features for Wednesday, February 25:

See Leonardo da Vinci's genius come to life! In our featured exhibit Da Vinci: The Genius, you can enjoy two floors of interactive reproductions of Leonardo da Vinci's inventions and 3D plasma presentations of his paintings. Highlights include Secrets of Mona Lisa Gallery, which features findings about the world's most famous painting that have startled the art world.

Talk to local food and beverage companies about the science behind their products and sample their tasty treats! Companies joining us in February will include: Caffe Vita Coffe Roasting Co., Cupcake Jones, Dave's Killer Bread, Hot Lips Soda, Missionary Chocolates, and Picklopolis.

For more info, go to the OMSI web site or calll 503.797.4517.

Case Shiller Index report for December

2009-02-24T11:39:00.000-08:00

The Case Shiller Index report for December was released today. The Portland market continued to see declines: a 13.14% decline for the past one year. Since our market's peak in July 2007, we have seen a drop of 15.02%.

Other West Coast cities saw steep declines:

Phoenix -33.96%

Los Angeles -26.42%

San Diego -24.84%

San Francisco -31.24%

Las Vegas -32.98%

Seattle -13.35

Getting Close to the Real Estate Tipping Point

2009-02-24T11:17:00.000-08:00

Are we getting close to the "tipping point" for real estate? One observer thinks so. Below is an excerpt of an article published in Realty Times by Kenneth Harney.

Are we somewhere near the "tipping point" for real estate, where an accumulation of positive economic and government policy developments starts moving housing toward higher sales and stabilized prices?

This week there are some strong signs that we just might be there.

Tops on the list: The massive stimulus bill signed into law by President Obama is certain to pull buyers into the market who otherwise would have stayed on the sidelines.

The new tax credit in the legislation goes up to $8,000 and is non-repayable -- unlike last year's ineffective credit program. It' s intended for "first time" purchasers, but under the program definition, you're a first timer as long as you haven't owned or co-owned a house during the previous three years.

You might have sold your long-time home in 2005 or early 2006, and haven't owned a house since, but you still qualify as a first timer for the $8,000 credit this year.

Most economists aren't sure just how many additional home sales the credit will stimulate, but even Mark Zandi of Moody's Economy.com says the "credit is a plus for the housing market." Brian Bethune, an economist with IHS Global Insight, says the $8,000 credit will not only push large numbers of consumers to buy homes, but will also "buffer the rate of decline in home prices" by creating more demand.

A second major government initiative announced last week should also be helpful: The Obama administration's massive $275 billion relief program to keep three to four million home owners out of foreclosure, and to refinance three to four million mortgages where owners can't otherwise qualify for a new loan because of property value declines.

Still another positive sign: Home buyers and owners are beating a wide path to their mortgage lenders not only to refinance but to take out new loans to buy houses. Total applications for new mortgages last week exploded -- up by an extraordinary 48 percent, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. Applications for conventional loans to buy houses were up by 11 percent.

Part of the reason was that rates fell again -- this time to an average of just 4.99 percent for 30 year fixed rates and 4.7 percent for fixed rate 15 year loans.

The opportunities here are pretty tempting ... and it looks like buyers are getting the message.

Amazing Green Comet to Pass the Earth this Month.

2009-02-19T12:06:00.000-08:00

This just in from the Associated Press (AP) - An odd, greenish backward-flying comet is zipping by Earth this month, as it takes its only trip toward the sun from the farthest edges of the solar system. The comet is called Lulin, and there's a chance it can be seen with the naked eye — far from city lights, astronomers say. But you'll most likely need a telescope, or at least binoculars, to spot it.

The best opportunity is just before dawn one-third of the way up the southern sky. It should be near Saturn and two bright stars, Spica and Regula.

On Monday at 10:43 p.m. EST, it will be 38 million miles from Earth, the closest it will ever get, according to Donald Yeomans, manager of NASA's Near Earth Object program.

Lulin was discovered by a Chinese teenager two years ago. It still has many of its original gases — gases that are usually stripped away as comets near the sun. Unlike most comets viewable from Earth, this one hasn't been this close to the sun before, Yeomans said.

First Time Home Buyer Stimulus - explained

2009-02-18T16:04:00.000-08:00

The Stimulus bill signed by President Obama has a terrific benefit in it for first time home buyers and for people who have not owned a home for over three years.

First-time home buyers (including those who haven't owned for three years) who purchase homes from the start of the year until the end of November 2009 may be eligible for the lower of an $8,000 or 10% of the value of the home tax credit. Remember a tax credit is very different than a tax deduction – a tax credit is equivalent to money in your hand, as opposed to a tax deduction which only reduces your taxable income. The tax credit starts phasing out for couples with incomes above $150,000 and single filers with incomes above $75,000. Buyers will have to repay the credit if they sell their homes within three years.

Another provision of the stimulus bill is designed to help promote energy-efficient investments in homes by extending and expanding tax credits through 2010 for purchases such as new furnaces, energy-efficient windows and doors, or insulation.

We believe these initiatives will help provide stability for the real estate market and give folks confidence to make a purchasing decision.

January RMLS Market Report

2009-02-17T10:32:00.001-08:00

January is a good news, bad news month. The bad news first - closed sales were really low. Just 732 homes were sold in January. Compared to January, 2008 that is a decline of 25.8%. This is no surprise as we feel the December snow storms kept many people indoors resulting in fewer offers to buy.

The good news is that January pending sales are up 52.5% compared to the previous year. Perhaps the snowbirds who didn't write offers in December, came out and made purchasing decisions in January.

Hopefully this upward trend will continue and be based on good value in the market place, low interest rates, and pent up demand for housing.

Getting Involved in your Neighborhood Association

2009-02-16T06:33:00.000-08:00

The following is from an article printed in The Oregonian late last year. We liked it and thought it would make a good post on the blog.

If you really care about an issue or have an idea for a project in a Portland Neighborhood, you might find support at your neighborhood association.

The City's 95 associations do everything from planning festivals to reviewing land-use proposals. They are run by volunteers, and their agendas tend to reflect the interests and priorities of the people who come and participate, according to Paul Leistner, the city's neighborhood program coordinator.

To get started, look up your association by entering your address at www.portlandmaps.com/. The name of your association will appear in the upper left hand corner next to your address.
then go to www.portlandonline.com/oni and click on the "my neighborhood" tab at the top for a directory of leaders and meeting times.

For downtown residents, you will find six different neighborhood associations depending on where you live.

For more details you can call 503-823-4519.

Weekend Trip to Hawaii

2009-02-14T01:57:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of Vincent Laforet

How to time the Market.

2009-02-13T08:51:00.000-08:00

When I don't know what to do, I listen to experts--like these:

"The stock market will fluctuate, but you can't pinpoint when it will tumble or shoot up." (AAII Guide to Mutual Funds)

"It must be apparent to intelligent investors--if anyone possessed the ability to do so (market time) he would become a billionaire--quickly--." (David Babson, author, adviser)

"What it really takes to improve your returns and diminish your risks is a willingness to stop focusing exclusively on the movement of the markets." (Baer & Ginsler, The Great Mutual Fund Trap)

"If we haven't said it enough, we'll say it again: Market timing is dangerous." (Barron's Guide to Making Investment Decisions.)

"Only liars manage to always be "out" during bad times and "in' during good times. (Bernard Baruch, famed investor)

"You have to keep reminding yourself. We don't know what's going to happen with anything, ever." (Peter Bernstein)

"I never have the faintest idea what the stock market is going to do in the next six months, or the next year, or the next two." (Warren Buffet)

"Any investment method that relies on predicting the future is doomed to fail." (Chandan & Sengupta, financial authors)

"A successful investor has a good knowledge base, a well-defined investment plan, and nerves of steel to stick with it." (Andrew Clarke, financial author)

"Forget market timing in any form." (Paul Farrell, (CBS Marketwatch.com)

"Benjamin Graham spent much of his career trying to devise a good formula for when to get into--and out of--the stock market. All formulas, he concluded, failed." (Forbes, 12-27-99)

"Don't sell out of fear or buy out of greed. Just keep making investments, and let the market take its course over the long-term." (Norman Fosback, author, researcher)

"The only function of economic forecasting is to make astrology look respectful." (John Kenneth Galbraith, Economist)

"If I have noticed anything over these 60 years on Wall Street, it is that people do not succeed in forecasting that's going to happen to the stock market." (Benjamin Graham)

"From June 1980 through December 1992, 94.5% of 237 market timing investment newsletters had gone of business." (Graham/Campbell Study)

"After receiving the Nobel Prize, Daniel Kahneman, was asked by a CNBC anchorman what investment tips he had for viewers. His answer: "Buy and hold."

"No one is smart enough to time the market's ups and downs." (Arthur Levitt, former SEC chairman)

"Nobody can predict interest rates, the future direction of the economy or the stock market." (Peter Lynch)

"At the peak of the bull market in March of 2000 only 0.7% of all recommendations on stocks issued by Wall Street brokerages and investment banks were to "Sell." (Miami Herald, 1-26-03)

"We're not keen on market-timing. It just doesn't work." (Morningstar Course 106)

"We've yet to find anyone who can accurately and consistently predict the market's short-term moves." (Motley Fools)

"Forget trying to time the market and do something productive instead." (Gerald Perritt, financial author)

"The market timer's Hall of Fame is an empty room." (Jane Bryant Quinn)

"In the long run it doesn't matter much whether your timing is great or lousy. What matters is that you stay invested." (Louis Rukeyser, TV host)

"It's my belief that it's a waste of time to try to time any market decline, or try to pinpoint a market bottom." (James Stewart, Smart Money columnist)

"People should stop chasing performance and just put together a sensible portfolio regardless of the ups and downs of the market." (David Swensen, Yale Investments)

"Trust in time and forget market timing. Allow time to work its compounding magic for you. Let market timing inflict its miseries on someone else." (Tweddell & Pierce, financial authors)

Courtesy of Taylor Larimore (It’s actually for stock market but can just as well be applied to purchasing a home)

Portlands Best Coffee?

2009-02-12T06:54:00.000-08:00

The editors at City Search feel that Portland's best coffee can be found in the Pearl District. It's located just two blocks from our office at 1105 NW Marshall St. This place is not your typical coffee shop like Starbucks or Seattle's Best. It's a fanciful Italian dessert cafe which hits the sweet spot with pastries and gelato.

Have you guessed it yet?? TaDa.... we're talking the one and only Via Dilizia.

Having been there many times for evening desert, I now need to give it a try in the morning.

Terra Del Sol Spa and Salon

2009-02-11T06:01:00.000-08:00

As a real Estate Broker specializing in downtown properties, we are sometimes asked about the location of area Day Spas. There are actually more then you might think. Recently, I became aware of one located midway between the Pearl District and the NW Nob Hill area. The name is Terra Del Sol Spa and Salon. They are located at 210 NW 17th, just a few blocks from Burnside.

The Terra Del Sol web site offers upcoming Valentines Day specials. They also have specials related to First Thursday, Mothers Day, etc. It looks like a great place to spend an afternoon.

Relax in their Grotto with Immersion Pool and Cool Dip, Turkish Steam Bath, or the Sun and Sand Room with Poolside appetizers. In addition, they offer a variety of massages, facials, and just about anything else that might be spa related.

The Case for Buying Real Estate Now

2009-02-10T14:12:00.000-08:00

There is no better time to purchase a downtown condo then now. Over the past six years we have been watching this market. Buyers are facing their best prospects, yet many don't seem to know it. The primary fear is that prices will continue to go down. This may seem like a valid concern but for investment minded people with long term plans to own, this is the right time.

No one can time a market bottom - not in stocks and not in Real Estate. We see the bottom only when we look in the rear view mirror. Mortgage rates are terrific, sellers are highly motivated, the supply of available units is astonishing, and government programs to encourage home purchases are creating some tempting opportunities.

For those who think of real estate as a short term investment, this is not for you. For those who want to own the home they live in and want to have lots of choices, you should be looking now. You should be well versed in what you can afford and how you will structure a loan. This means serious discussions with a lender.

Our team has years of experience working with buyers and sellers in all price ranges. First time home buyers and transferees moving to our region get the same service as our immediate family members would.

Don't wait. Interest rates may dip some but will eventually go up. Inflation will surely come on the heals of the big stimulus programs being debated in Washington DC, and sooner or later, the supply of decent homes will trend downward. These factors usually contribute to rising home values.

Please feel free to contact us for more information.

The Meriwether Condominiums

2009-02-06T06:02:00.000-08:00

The Meriwether is the first residential building to be completed in the South Waterfront district. It consists of two high-rise condominium towers and seventeen street-level town homes. The Meriwether is LEED certified Gold, features upscale finishes, a concierge desk, secured entry, private courtyard and access to the new Willamette Riverfront walkway.

This building represents a terrific value for those interested in making a condo purchase. Prices here are lower then the Pearl District and there are a number of unit resales for buyers to consider.

Presently, our team has two units available for sale at The Meriwether. Unit #106 is a two story town home on SW Curry Street. It has two bedrooms, two baths and over 1600 sqft of space. It's priced at just $458,000. Also available is unit #1113. This eleventh floor condo features two bedrooms plus a den area, two full baths, fireplace, and large terrace facing south. It's priced at $595,000 and is just over 1600 sqft.

If you are interested in knowing more about properties for sale at the Meriwether, please visit our website, http://www.bpr.com/. We have a feature page for the building which is linked here.

First Thursday Gallery Suggestions

2009-02-05T06:10:00.000-08:00

Should be a beautiful evening tonight for art viewing. There are quite a few new shows and the weather should be nice. Below are just a few of the more interesting exhibits you might want to check out.

Laura Russo Gallery, 805 NW 21st St - Painter Jack Portland combines elements of surrealism and expressionism with a patterned and abstract vocabulary. He incorporates images ranging from landscape to still life to a synopsis of personal forms.
Butters Gallery, 520 N.W. Davis, Second floor - encaustic paintings by Debra Van Tuinen, and glass pieces by Alessandro Casson.
New American Art Union, 922 SE Ankeny Street - presents Evident by Laura Fritz.

Should you refinance?

2009-02-04T09:04:00.001-08:00

According to Consumer Reports Magazine, with fixed rate mortgages hovering near 5%, now is a good time to refinance. If you're underwater with your mortgage - you owe more than your home is worth - you won't be able to do that. But if you have significant equity as well as great credit, you're a prime candidate. Expect to pay for an appraisal and face strict documentation requirements.

In this chaotic housing market, it pays to shop around for a lender. According to mortgage experts, there can be a 1 percentage point difference in rates from the highest-priced lender to the lowest-priced and 0.25 percentage point swings in the market day to day. When comparing mortgages, be aware that lenders might offer you their best rate when you first contact them, then quote a higher rate when you apply. Any rate you're offered can change quickly, so if you get a great rate, lock it in that day.

If you would like a list of lenders who have worked successfully with our buyer clients, please let me know and I will email you their list.

Energy Saving Tips of the Month

2009-02-02T10:11:00.000-08:00

The good folks at Earth Advantage came up with the following advice on how we can change the way we use energy with these no-cost and low-cost energy saving tips:

Caulk small holes and cracks under countertops and around plumbing pipes, exhaust fans, dryer vents, sink and bathtub drains, and fireplaces.
Check your furnace filter monthly and clean or replace dirty filters to help your furnace work at peak efficiency.
Stop air leaks by installing gaskets behind switch plates and outlets on exterior walls.

Visit Energy Trust of Oregon for more energy-saving ideas and to learn about cash incentives available for qualifying home improvements.

Weekend Fun

2009-01-31T10:08:00.000-08:00

If Bud Abbott and Lou Costello were alive today, their infamous sketch, 'Who's on First?' might have turned out something like this:

COSTELLO CALLS TO BUY A COMPUTER FROM ABBOTT
ABBOTT: Super Duper computer store. Can I help you?
COSTELLO : Thanks. I'm setting up an office in my den and I'm thinking about buying a computer.
ABBOTT : Mac?
COSTELLO : No, the name's Lou .
ABBOTT : Your computer?
COSTELLO : I don't own a computer. I want to buy one.
ABBOTT : Mac?
COSTELLO: I told you, my name's Lou .
ABBOTT : What about Windows?
COSTELLO : Why? Will it get stuffy in here?
ABBOTT : Do you want a computer with Windows?
COSTELLO : I don't know. What will I see when I look at the windows?
ABBOTT : Wallpaper.
COSTELLO : Never mind the windows. I need a computer and software.
ABBOTT : Software for Windows?
COSTELLO : No. On the computer! I need something I can use to write proposals, track expenses and run my business. What do you have?
ABBOTT : Office.
COSTELLO: Yeah, for my office. Can you recommend anything?
ABBOTT : I just did.
COSTELLO : You just did what?
ABBOTT : Recommend something.
COSTELLO : You recommended something ?
ABBOTT : Yes.
COSTELLO : For my office?
ABBOTT : Yes.
COSTELLO : OK, what did you recommend for my office?
ABBOTT : Office.
COSTELLO : Yes, for my office!
ABBOTT : I recommend Office with Windows.
COSTELLO : I already have an office with windows! OK, let's just say I'm sitting at my computer and I want to type a proposal. What do I need?
ABBOTT : Word.
COSTELLO : What word?
ABBOTT : Word in Office.
COSTELLO : The only word in office is office.
ABBOTT : The Word in Office for Windows.
COSTELLO : Which word in office for windows?
ABBOTT : The Word you get when you click the blue 'W'.
COSTELLO : I'm going to click your blue 'w' if you don't start with some straight answers. What about financial bookkeeping? You have anything I can track my money with?
ABBOTT: Money.
COSTELLO : That's right. What do you have?
ABBOTT : Money.
COSTELLO : I need money to track my money?
ABBOTT : It comes bundled with your computer.
COSTELLO : What's bundled with my computer?
ABBOTT : Money.
COSTELLO : Money comes with my computer?
ABBOTT : Yes. No extra charge.
COSTELLO : I get a bundle of money with my computer? How much?
ABBOTT : One copy.
COSTELLO : Isn't it illegal to copy money?
ABBOTT : Microsoft gave us a license to copy Money.
COSTELLO : They can give you a license to copy money?
ABBOTT : Why not? THEY OWN IT!

(A few days later)
ABBOTT : Super Duper computer store. Can I help you?
COSTELLO : How do I turn my computer off?ABBOTT : Click on 'START'.............

Wellness made easy

2009-01-30T08:23:00.000-08:00

If you don't have time for long workouts, short bouts of exercise can be just as good. The University of California Wellness Letter reports that a recent British study of young men found that 10 three-minute bouts of brisk walking over the course of five hours were as effective in lowering triglycerides (fats in blood) and resting blood pressure as one 30-minute bout. Other studies have compared three or four 10-minute sessions to a single 30- or 40-minute session, and found that the repeated short bouts can me just as healthful as longer ones.

This is good news for downtowners who typically walk about more then their suburban counter parts. Picking up the pace on our trek to Starbucks, the grocery store, or to the dog park can keep us just as healthy as that step aerobics class at the local 24 HR Fitness.

We should also know that Portlanders live in one of the top walking cities in the US. According to The American Podiatric Medical Association, Portland ranked number 4 in their survey of 200 U.S. incorporated cities. The survey is based on three walking conducive categories: healthy lifestyles, modes of transportation to and from work, and involvement in fitness and sport activities.

Wireless Internet for All

2009-01-29T08:41:00.000-08:00

Many of today's condominium owners depend as much on Internet access as they do on electricity, heat, and water. After all, who needs the fridge to run if you can't get online to order the groceries or take-out? Who needs a morning shower when you're working from home on the computer? Being online is a basic, and as such, homeowners expect their online services to be not just impeccably reliable, but high-speed and low-cost, too.

A new service has rolled out in Portland from a company named Clear. They are promoting heavily so you may have seen their ads. The Clear Network is powered by WiMAX, which is specifically designed for high speed Internet data usage. You can have home service or city wide access. It's a great concept and I hope the performance of the system lives up to the potential.

Consider having wireless service anywhere you go in Portland with your laptop. Good idea.

The service is priced less then other Internet options and the data speeds are supposed to be very fast. Clear has opened a sales boutique across from our office on NW Lovejoy. I'll check it out today to learn more about this exciting technology. For now, their web site is a good source of information about the service - http://www.clear.com/.

South Waterfront Update

2009-01-28T08:17:00.000-08:00

If you are interested in knowing more about plans for Portland's South Waterfront District, tonight is your night. Representatives from the City of Portland, area developers, and OHSU will hold a public meeting to share updates on what is happening now and what the future holds for the district.

The event, which is sponsored by the SWF Community Relations group, will be held 6:00-8:00pm at the Umpqua Bank Innovation Lab, 3606 SW Bond Ave.

Drinks and appetizers will be served.

Latest Housing Index Shows Portland Down 11.45%

2009-01-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

The Case-Shiller Home Price Index come out with it's November, 2008 report today. Compared to one year ago, Portland area housing prices are down 11.45%. Looking at the data over a two year period shows a total decline of 10.32%. Based on the Case-Shiller data, Portland area home values have fallen back to November 2005 levels.

How do we compare to other metropolitan areas? San Diego is down 25.8%, San Francisco is down 30.8%, Phoenix is down 32.9% and Los Angeles is down 25.86%. Seattle performed similar to Portland and is down 11.2%.

Overall, Case-Shiller's index of twenty metropolitan areas is down 18.2% for the past one year.

This is one time when being below average is probably a good thing.

Modern Daydreams

2009-01-26T06:54:00.000-08:00

While attending the OMSI Gala last Saturday night we were entertained by BodyVox, Portland's internationally acclaimed dance company. One of the items they entertained us with was this humorous video. You may enjoy it here and if you look closely, you will recognize scenes of the Pearl District, circa 2001.

The Civic

2009-01-23T12:54:00.001-08:00

The Civic is one of Portland's newer condominium buildings. It's a sixteen story condo tower situated next to PGE park and the MAX station. It features approx 261 units configured as 196 one bedroom lofts, 56 two bedroom homes and 9 penthouses.

The Civic is an energy efficient building that is LEED certified Gold, features a public plaza, a very nice lobby, concierge service, secured entry and underground parking.

We happen to have a listing in The Civic. It's #1502, a terrific two bedroom unit with sweeping views of the city and several large mountain peaks. It's has over 14oo sqft, beautiful wood floors, a terrace, two parking spaces and is priced at just $585,000. If you'd like to see a list of all homes for sale at The Civic, please visit our website bpr.com or you can just click on our Civic page.

A Good Clean-Team Can Be Your Association's Best Investment

2009-01-22T08:29:00.000-08:00

At every condominium community it happens every hour; every day. Coffee gets spilled, mud gets tracked, windows get smeared. When residents move, errant table legs and oversized sofas can scrape black marks, and even divots, into painted walls. Property managers know that keeping things clean is one of the uppermost duties of any association caretaker.

But cleaning staff are like the late, great Rodney Dangerfield in that they have every right to complain, “I don’t get no respect.” How important, really, is a professional cleaning crew?
Consultants who have studied the success of Walt Disney World have surveyed thousands of guests about what they like best about their experience at a Disney resort. Is it the rides, entertainment, food, shopping, hob-nobbing with Mickey? No, the number one thing they like about the themed amusement park is, “It’s so clean.”

Not only is cleanliness a top priority in a community’s long-term planning, it must be included with other contingencies that make up a manager’s “emergency” list, along with the plumbers, electricians and others who can respond immediately if a pipe bursts or lightning strikes. If someone gets sick in the fitness room on Saturday evening, no one wants to wait until Monday morning to see it cleaned up.

The methods used by community associations for keeping things clean can vary as much as the communities themselves. While the very smallest — a two or three-unit building— may rely on volunteer cooperation of its two or three owners, the vast majority of community associations hire professionals for regular maintenance as well as emergency clean-ups. The range of duties can vary widely.

A typical punch list includes vacuuming carpets in hallways and other common areas; cleaning and checking the equipment in laundry rooms as well as fitness centers, bathrooms, function rooms and even outdoor areas.

“We will roll out the trash bins and pick up litter for our larger properties,” states one property manager. “We also handle some of the more heavy-duty jobs on a community’s common buildings and exteriors, such as power-washing… and we can do window cleaning up to three floors high.”

Carpet cleaning is important to the appearance of any property, and most associations schedule it at least once or twice a year — or more often if they can afford it.

Of course, the level of perfection that associations demand can vary from one property or community to the next. One community may be satisfied with the level of cleaning provided by a resident as a “side job,” while another association looks to professionals and expects perfection.

-Article in Condo Magazine

Time to lose a little Weight

2009-01-21T10:40:00.001-08:00

I really wanted to comment on the disappointing news regarding our new mayor. It's seriously taking the shine off the feel-good events taking place in Washington DC. For now, I will simply refer you to the well written piece from the editorial board of the Oregonian. You can read it here.

Instead of commenting on Sam, I will talk about my goal to lose a few pounds now that the holiday season has ended. Yup, I gained weight and now intend to work it off. They say if you tell your friends about your goals, you are more likely to accomplish then. Must be the peer pressure.

So with Sam (who is putting on a little weight himself) dispatched for now, I announce my intention to lose eight pounds in eight weeks. I'll start soon... really, in just a few days.

Photo by Michael Lloyd/The Oregonian

Inauguration day

2009-01-20T12:10:00.000-08:00

On this very important day in the history of our country, we wish President Obama and his team all the best. Our economic problems are complex and will take time to resolve. Hopefully we are now turning the corner on a new era of prosperity.

Apollo @ Portland Center Stage

2009-01-19T08:45:00.000-08:00

On Saturday evening we had the good fortune to attend a terrific performance of "Apollo" at Portland Center Stage. I highly recommend it.

We love seeing shows at the Gerding Theater in the old (renovated) Armory Building. This was no exception.

While long at 3+ hours (two intermissions) the play "explores the birth of the U.S. space program, its employment of former-Nazi rocket scientists, and their surprising intersection with the Civil Rights Movement. Using the U.S. mission to the moon as a symbol of our country’s greatness, Apollo probes deep into the question: what did we sacrifice to become the America we are today? And was it worth it? A a kaleidoscopic array of theatrical methods (movement, text, video projection, music), reveals the costs and ambiguities of human aspiration and progress."

Ecoroof

2009-01-16T10:02:00.000-08:00

The following is from an eletter I received from Earth Advantage Inc:

Ecoroof - Buzz Word of the Month

An ecoroof, or "green" roof is a vegetated roof system used in place of a conventional roof. Ecoroofs are comprised of several layers including a root barrier, waterproof membrane, drainage, soil system, and plants. Ecoroofs can double or triple the life span of the roof, add insulation to a building, and create additional usable space.

The City of Portland has approved Ecoroof systems as a storm water management technique, and provides incentives to qualify owners.

You can learn more about Ecoroofs at HGTV's web site here.

Real Estate Market Report for December

2009-01-15T12:07:00.000-08:00

The monthly Market Action report for Portland came out today and, with no surprise, indicated that December was a very slow month in our region. December sales were down 34% compared to December 2007. The real surprise was that the number of sales (987) was the lowest monthly total since February 1992 (905). Pending transactions (810) were the lowest number since RMLS began reporting in 1992 and the previous record was 845 in December 1994.

For the year, 2008 total sales were down 32.1% from 2007. Pending sales dropped 30.8% and new listings decreased 8.7%.

Hopefully the slow December was somewhat weather related and we will see a rebound in January. Already our group is seeing more buyer activity then we've had for months.

Latest Condo Developement Plan

2009-01-14T06:50:00.000-08:00

With the condo market being soft, local builders are floating a new development concept that reduces construction costs and makes units more affordable. This new plan helps to support one of the city's primary goals for make housing more assessable and solves the problem of how to deal with steep slopes often found along downtown's western edge.

Happy Hour at the Uptown Billiard Club

2009-01-13T07:30:00.000-08:00

Uptown Billiard Club has one of the best happy hour offers of anyplace in the downtown area. Called the 5-course Happy Hour it features five entrees for $10. And if this is not good enough, you can pair your five courses with five wines for an additional ten dollars. That's five entrees with five small glasses of wine for just $20. A terrific deal at a terrific place.

Uptown Billiards is located at 120 NW 23rd. Oh, did I mention you can also enjoy a few rounds of pool while you're there?

Condominium Furnace Maintenance

2009-01-12T09:25:00.000-08:00

Many people choose condo living for the ease of maintenance. There is a management company that takes care of most of the community maintenance needs and is a source of reference when something inside the unit needs attention.

This is very handy, but at times, causes us to forget that certain items in the unit need routine maintenance. One of the most often overlooked maintenance tasks is the heating/cooling unit. Most new modern buildings use either an electric furnace or a water based heat pump system. These systems need to have their filters replaced twice each year. It's like changing oil in the car - if you don't do it routinely, serious problems can result.

Additionally, these units should receive a minor tuneup every year or two. This is done by a service technician. Because newer buildings use sophisticated systems, make sure you contact a firm that is factory trained and certified to maintain the unit. This comes in handy if the work needed is covered under a warranty. It's not hard to locate such a technician. Just note the manufacturer of the unit, contact their customer service phone (or web page) and ask for a list of certified repair people.

Recent Real Estate Trends

2009-01-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

We track a variety of statistics regarding the downtown condominium market place. Since this is a fairly small piece of the overall Portland area pie, quarterly data is more meaningful than monthly.

As 2008 came to a close, the median price a downtown condo had dropped 14% from the prior year but is still up 6% from the fourth quarter of 2006. It currently stands at $345,000. Average price per sqft was $381. This value has trended downward during 2008 and has settled in at the same level we saw two years ago. Sales activity during the last three months of 2008 was the slowest level we have seen since Q1 of 2004.

Orbiting Tool Bag Flys Over Portland

2009-01-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

Amateur astronomers have spotted the world's most famous — and expensive — lost tool bag, which has been circling the Earth for the past week.

Endeavor astronaut Heide Stefanyshyn-Piper lost her grip on the $100,000, backpack-size bag while cleaning up after a grease gun leaked during a Nov. 18 spacewalk.

Grab your binoculars or telescopes: Your next chance to spot it over Portland is tonight, Thursday, January 8 at approx 11:09 pm. Look for it flying a few minutes ahead of the International Space Station. Moving from the southwest to the northeast, it appears as a tiny white dot streaking across the sky. Hopefully the weather cooperates.

NASA expects the bag to burn up when it re-enters Earth's atmosphere next June.

The 30-pound bag — which holds two grease guns, a scraper tool, a large trash bag and a small debris bag — is one of the more than 8,500 objects classified as "space debris" circling the globe.

Second Thursday Gallery Suggestions

2009-01-07T11:39:00.000-08:00

Due to holiday, this month’s First Thursday is being held on “Second Thursday” - January 8.

There are quite a few interesting exhibits this month that will make for an interesting tour. Bring an umbrella because it will probably be raining – heavily at times. You will find the forecast for Thursday night here.

Below are just a few of the openings you will find in Downtown Portland courtesy of PADA - Portland Art Dealers Association:

Attic Gallery, 206 SW First St features acrylic paintings on canvas by Jean Schwabe.

Beet Gallery, 1720 NW Lovejoy #120 is showing figurative ceramics by Robin and John Gumaelius.

Portland Northwest College of Art (PNCA), 1241 NW Johnson St, has drawings by Robert Hanson and an exhibit by Artist-in-residence Molly Dilworth.

Bullseye Gallery, 300 NW 13th Ave is featuring “Due North” - the legacy and artists of Scotland’s North Lands Creative Glass as well as works by Jeff Wallin.

Froelick Gallery, 714 NW Davis presents a Winter Group Show. Works by various artists.

Stay Safe While Keeping Warm This Winter

2009-01-06T10:46:00.000-08:00

National Public Radio recently ran a story about a piece of advice from the latest edition of The Old Farmer’s Almanac. The suggestion was about how to stay warm throughout the winter with just one log: chuck it out of an upstairs window, run downstairs and outside to pick it up, and then sprint back upstairs and chuck it out the window again. Repeat until warm.

This method may not cut it for the majority of condominium residents because the Almanac, as well many other weather forecasters, is predicting an unusually cold winter for Oregon. So people may be more inclined to chuck that log into the fireplace and set fire to it than use it for exercise.

Obviously, it is vital to only burn fuel meant for that unit. Don’t put logs in a gas-fired unit or use lighter fluid to get the wood burning. Beyond that, there are many options for wood-burning fireplaces. Condominium owners who build fires only for the ambiance may be inclined to use manufactured logs instead of cordwood. Manufactured logs are easy to transport and light; they make fire building look easy. The Chimney Safety Institute of America has certified three types of manufactured logs for use in fireplaces: the Duraflamebrand of logs, the Javalog, and the Creosote Sweeping Log.

Stay warm and safe.

Condo Trends: Universal Design

2009-01-05T10:39:00.000-08:00

If you're nearing the age of 50, then you've probably already heard about a type of design in housing called "universal design."

On a practical level, Universal Design allows for the day in which mobility and energy of Baby Boomers may be reduced. For example, designers can create easily accessible, functional and beautiful bathrooms by integrating a large turning radius, wide doorways and lever handles allowing those in a wheelchair easy access.

While it may not sound like much of a difference in traditional design, universal eliminates “steps or floor-height differentials and incorporating broad doorways and hallways throughout that take into account the potential for future lifestyle changes." Says Nanette Overly, vice president Epcon Communities.

North Carolina State University's Center for Universal Design just introduced an upper undergraduate and graduate course study called Universal By Design. The center designed the course to "help address inadequacies" currently found in universal design where untrained developers of universal space are trying to support federal laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Fair Housing Amendment Act. The course should help designers in training to conduct "more creative work beyond mere code compliance."

Overly stipulates "the ultimate compliment paid to Universal Design residence is that while it provides an ideal venue for mature residents, it doesn't feel like a space that has made any design concessions."

A well-designed universal dwelling is one that anyone would be happy to call home.

Recycle TVs and Computer Monitors for free

2009-01-02T11:01:00.000-08:00

For Oregon and Washington residents -- and their old TVs, computers and monitors only -- recycling is about to get a lot easier, courtesy of the new E-Cycles program.

Starting Jan. 1, you can drop off TVs, computers (desktops and laptops) and monitors at a network of free recycling sites. The network is the result of legislation in both states that requires manufacturers to pay to recycle their products, if they want to keep selling them here.

From now on, when customers buy TVs or computers in either state, retailers must provide information about how to recycle them.

Search the Oregon E-Cycles database by zip code, city or town to find the nearest collection site, at oregonecycles.org. Or call the Oregon E-Cycles hotline at 1-888-532-9253.

All the rest of the e-waste heap: The only items you can recycle for free through E-Cycles in Oregon and Washington are TVs, computers and monitors. Important: No other computer-related items (keyboards, mice, speakers, printers, scanners) or electronic devices will be accepted for free.

What to do with it?
• Recycling sites that participate in the E-Cycles program may accept other electronic devices, for a fee. Call or consult recyclers' Web sites before you go.

• Metro regional government provides a searchable database of recyclers, for electronics and more. Or call the recycling hotline at 503-234-3000.

• Search by product type at earth911.com/electronics, which culls recycling options from government, nonprofit and retail sources.

• Some manufacturers, including Dell and Apple, will take back computers, keyboards, mice, printers and other equipment at little or no cost. Check the manufacturer's Web site.

• In Multnomah County, you can drop off cell phones, PDAs, MP3 players, chargers and Bluetooth headsets into free recycling bins at 11 libraries and county buildings.

• Call to Protect collects old cell phones and refurbishes them for domestic violence survivors; find local dropoff sites at calltoprotect.org. Many cell phone manufacturers provide prepaid mailing labels on their Web sites to help customers return used devices. Or go to rbrc.org/consumer/index.php for a national network of retailers that accept used cell phones.

Portland Housing Values Continue to Decline

2008-12-30T16:13:00.000-08:00

Case Shiller released their most current index numbers today. We like this index because it reflects the value change of actual homes. CS compares a home's recent sales price to the it's previous purchase price. Based on this information, the Portland area logged an annual decline of 10% over the past one year period and a 8.4 % decline over a two year period.

This is the tenth month in a row that the index value for Portland has gone down. Real Estate values in Portland are now equivalent to February 2006 levels.

As tough as these numbers sound, nationally the one year decline was a whopping 19%.

Condo Trends: 2009 Forecast Condo Increases Overseas

2008-12-30T10:29:00.000-08:00

Realty Times reports that if you're looking for where condo sales will trend upward in 2009, you may have to look outside the U.S. for such a forecast. Tokyo, Dubai and Newfoundland are all forecasting a rise in condo sales for 2009.

JapanEconomyNews.com reports the Real Estate Institute says that Japan should see an increase in condo sales of nearly 12 percent -- mostly because the market dipped so tremendously in 2008.

The website says, "The Real Estate Economic Institute must be looking at a combination of oversupply, heavily discounted prices and the chance that the economy will begin to turn around from the third quarter of next year -- or at least that consumer sentiment, wages and propensity to spend will be better."

Dubai, a hotbed of real estate investment for years, should see positive growth again in 2009, according to developers there. "The Chairman of Pearl Dubai, Abdul Majeed al Fahim, said, "As far as we are concerned there is no liquidity problem and our projects are on track," as reported on Dubai condo industry watcher EstatesDubai.com.

Closer to the U.S., some Canadian markets are also looking for growth in '09. St. Johns, Newfoundland has been one of the most stable markets throughout the international downturn. Realtors Stephen and Fraser Winters, a father-son team, report St. Johns will see another increase in sales this next year. "Seller's market conditions should prevail in 2009, with vendors commanding larger deposits and builders asking and getting at least five per cent down for new construction," they say on their blog stjohnsrealestateonline.com.

Pearl District with Snow

2008-12-29T11:10:00.000-08:00

OK, here's the last post with a picture of the snow. It was taken by Bill Barry-BarryFoto with a 15mm fish eye lens. The location is the Starbucks on the corner of NW 11th and Lovejoy. The streets are set at a 90 degree angle but the rounded curve of the streetcar track combined with the fish eye lens makes the whole scene look like something we'd see in Paris.

Polar Express - The Movie

2008-12-26T10:27:00.000-08:00

Now that Christmas is past and the cold spell seems to be breaking, what to do with the holiday time that remains. Perhaps take in a movie, maybe on an Omnimax screen over at OMSI.

Playing thru January 4 is The Polar Express.

Watch snowflakes float down on Portland’s largest screen and feel the train rumble via 12,000 watts of digital surround sound when The Polar Express arrives at the OMNIMAX Dome Theater. Based on the classic Caldecott award-wining children’s book written by Chris Van Allsburg, the film tells the story of a young boy’s extraordinary train ride to the North Pole and his discovery that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. Tom Hanks stars.

Wheels When You Need Them

2008-12-24T10:07:00.000-08:00

Stopped by the Meriwether yesterday to pickup Dianne's mother. While there, we noticed that the Zip Car had not been used in a few days. That may explain the huge crowds riding on the Streetcar.

Snowy Scene

2008-12-23T09:53:00.001-08:00

Here is a picture of the South Waterfront area taken yesterday.

Home Sales Down Nationally

2008-12-23T09:46:00.000-08:00

Last week we commented that home sales in the Portland Area had taken a big drop during the month of November. Today, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported that, nationally, sales of existing homes plunged far more than expected last month as buyers recoiled from October's financial wreckage on Wall Street. The median sales price fell by the largest amount on record.

The association said Tuesday existing home sales fell 8.6 percent to an annual rate of 4.49 million in November, from a downwardly revised pace of 4.91 million in October.

Sales had been expected to fall to a pace of 4.9 million units. according to Thomson Reuters.
The median sales price plunged 13.2 percent in November to $181,300, from $208,000 a year ago. That was the lowest price since February 2004, the biggest year-over-year drop on records going back to 1968 and most likely the biggest drop since the Great Depression.

Cars Slide getting out of the South Waterfront

2008-12-20T21:36:00.000-08:00

This video was shot by South Waterfront resident Bob Cronk of cars trying to drive up and out of the the South Waterfront area last Monday. Maybe he will create another one after tonight's storm.

Mice suspected in Million-Dollar Cheese Destruction

2008-12-20T09:24:00.000-08:00

Mice are the unlikely villains of a new setback for the Italian cheese industry after allegedly spoiling more than $1m (€777,000) of products in the Northern city of Parma, say news reports.

Mice excrement and carcasses were found by police at a warehouse in the city, leading to the seizure of 2000 cheese rounds weighing about 80 tons, according to the Russian news agency RIA Novosti.

The cheese, produced by a local manufacturer, was partly destroyed with further tests determining whether other samples are still safe for consumption, according to the report.

Parma is famously associated as a key area for the production of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

Mice seem to be in the news frequently these days. They apparently are the prime suspects in a deadly cat fire near the Canadian city of Toronto. More on that here.

The Best French Fries

2008-12-19T09:18:00.000-08:00

My wife and I had dinner last night at the Daily Cafe on the Pearl. It was a classic winter evening with holiday lights and snow flurries in the air. I had an appointment to show a condo at The Mackenzie Lofts so we decided to have a quick dinner then meet our client.

I must say, their french fries are about the best I have ever eaten. Thinly cut, lightly fried, and covered with a terrific seasoning. I asked the waitress what they put on their fries but she wouldn't completely give away the secret. Suffice it to say, it's a combination of herbs and spices.

The Daily is located at 902 NW 13th Ave (+ Kearney St).

Snow Picture

2008-12-18T11:03:00.000-08:00

This bird was watching us this morning while it was snowing.