Homeowner Tips & Advice

You listed your home, expected it to fly off the market… but weeks later, you’re still waiting. Showings are few and far between. Feedback is vague. And you're wondering: What’s going wrong? ​If your home isn’t selling in Portland’s competitive market, it’s rarely just bad luck. Here are the most common reasons—and how to fix them.

Thinking of moving to the Portland area but not sure where to plant your roots? You're not alone. Portland's suburbs each offer a unique lifestyle, from urban energy to peaceful retreats—and choosing the right one can make all the difference.

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial steps you’ll take—and while most buyers plan for a down payment and monthly mortgage, many are surprised by the extra expenses that come with closing the deal and moving in. These hidden costs can add up quickly, especially in a market like Portland, where property taxes, insurance, and inspection-related costs vary by neighborhood.

Deciding whether to renovate your home before selling is one of the most common dilemmas for Portland homeowners preparing to list. The answer depends on your goals, your timeline, and the current condition of your property. Done right, certain updates can increase your home's market value and attract stronger offers. Done wrong—or unnecessarily—and you may spend more than you’ll get back.

Buying your first home in Oregon? You’re not alone—and you’re not without support. In 2025, a variety of programs will be available to help first-time buyers in Oregon overcome common hurdles like down payments, closing costs, and loan qualification. Whether you’re eyeing Portland, Bend, Eugene, or smaller communities across the state, understanding your options could save you thousands and accelerate your path to homeownership.

Portland’s charm, strong job market, and distinct neighborhoods make it one of the most attractive cities in the Pacific Northwest. But when it comes to putting down roots, many people face a familiar question: should I rent or buy?

Deciding to sell your home is a big step, and not one you should take lightly. But sometimes, the signs are there, quietly nudging you toward a new chapter. Whether you’ve lived in your house for three years or three decades, there often comes a point when staying no longer makes sense. If you’ve been wondering whether now is the right time, here are three clear signs you may be ready to sell your home. 1. Your Home No Longer Fits Your Life One of the most common signs it’s time to move on is when your home no longer suits your lifestyle. Maybe your family has grown and you need more space. Or maybe the kids have moved out, and now you're left with rooms that sit unused. A home that’s too small can create daily stress, while a home that’s too large can be difficult and expensive to maintain. And it’s not just about size—your lifestyle matters too. If you’ve changed jobs, want to live closer to family, or your priorities have shifted (hello, walkable neighborhoods and less yard work), your home might be holding you back from the life you want to live now. Ask yourself: Does my current home help or hinder the way I live today? 2. You’ve Built Up Equity—and You're Ready to Use It If you’ve owned your home for a while, chances are you’ve built up significant equity—especially in a market like Portland, where home values have seen strong appreciation over the past decade. Selling now might allow you to access that equity to make your next move—whether that’s upgrading, downsizing, or relocating entirely. Many sellers are using their home equity to eliminate debt, fund retirement, or invest in property that better suits their long-term goals. Check your latest mortgage balance and compare it with your home’s estimated market value. You might be surprised by how much buying power you’ve built up. Pro tip: Even if you’re not 100% ready to list, it’s worth talking to a local real estate expert to understand your current market value. 3. You’re Emotionally Ready to Move On Selling a home isn’t just a financial decision—it’s an emotional one. Maybe you’ve been sitting with the idea of moving for a while, but something was holding you back. Then one day, it clicks: you’re ready. Maybe you’re craving a fresh start. Maybe the upkeep is draining your time and energy. Or maybe you’ve simply outgrown the space mentally, not just physically. If you find yourself imagining life in a new home more often than not, that’s a powerful clue. And don’t underestimate the emotional freedom that can come with letting go of a house that no longer serves your current chapter. Remember: Feeling “ready” doesn’t mean you have all the answers—it just means you’re open to exploring your next step. Final Thoughts The decision to sell your home is deeply personal. But when your space no longer fits, your finances point toward opportunity, and your heart says “let’s go,” those signs are worth listening to. If any (or all) of these resonate with you, it may be time to start the conversation. With the right guidance, selling your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it can be the beginning of something exciting.

Thinking of selling your home? Summer might just be the golden window you’ve been waiting for. While spring often gets all the attention, savvy sellers know that summer listings can bring serious results—especially in competitive markets like Portland.

Thinking about downsizing now that the kids have moved out? Discover why making the move to a smaller home in Portland can be simpler—and more rewarding—than you think. This guide explores the emotional, financial, and lifestyle benefits of downsizing, along with neighborhood suggestions to fit your next chapter.

Thinking about downsizing in Portland? Whether you're an empty nester, simplifying your lifestyle, or planning your next chapter, this guide walks you through everything you need to know—from deciding when to move to choosing the right neighborhood and making the most of your home sale.

Wondering what today’s buyers are really looking for? From energy efficiency to flexible layouts and remote-work-ready spaces, this blog breaks down the top features that help homes sell faster in 2025—especially in markets like Portland.

Understanding the housing landscape is more important than ever. Knowing what's ahead can make all the difference whether you're planning to buy, sell, or stay informed. This article dives into the latest insights and forecasts to help you navigate the shifting conditions in the coming years.We’ll explore how economic factors, pricing changes, and evolving strategies for buyers and sellers could shape your decisions. Updated data from trusted sources like Zillow, Freddie Mac, and Goldman Sachs provides a clear picture of what to expect.Since 2020, the housing sector has faced significant challenges. However, these challenges are now turning into opportunities. By staying informed, you can make smarter choices and seize the right moment in this dynamic environment.