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Thinking Bigger When the Industry is Dismantling

Posted on by Eric Hagstette

Listen here

Recently, I had the privilege of being a guest on the Think Bigger Real Estate Show, hosted by the amazing Justin Stoddart. It was an insightful and thought-provoking conversation, and I’m thrilled to highlight a few key takeaways from our discussion.

In our talk, we explored various chapters, each offering valuable insights into the real estate industry and beyond:

  • “Unlocking Success Beyond Real Estate”: We discussed the importance of thinking outside the box and solving bigger problems to stay relevant in a changing market. It’s all about expanding horizons.
  • “Adapting and Thriving in Changing Times”: We dove into the need for real estate professionals to adapt to new environments and find alternative paths, uncovering opportunities ahead of the competition.
  • “Innovative Strategies to Expand Your Real Estate Business”: Discover how finding your niche and thinking big can transform your approach to the industry. It’s about looking at the broader picture of housing, beyond just closing deals.
  • “Solving Bigger Problems and Networking for Success”: We explored the significance of tackling significant housing issues, such as affordability and homelessness, while networking with influential individuals who can guide opportunities your way.
  • “How Real Estate Professionals Can Drive Change and Attract Opportunities”: We discussed the power of industry participation, believing in oneself, and providing value to the public, not just buyers and sellers.
  • “Simplicity, Openness, and Giving: The Keys to Expanding Your Real Estate Horizons”: Find out how simplicity, sharing even the most basic information, and giving back can lead to growth and success.

I’m genuinely excited to share these insights with you, and I hope you’ll find them inspiring. You can listen to the full episode right here.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. I look forward to sharing more thought-provoking conversations and insights with you in the future.

Warm regards,

Eric

My 3 favorite fall hikes within an hour of Portland

Posted on by Jessica Andrus

Chasing Autumn’s Palette:  My top 3 hikes

As summer gracefully yields to the crisp embrace of autumn, the Pacific Northwest becomes a tapestry of vibrant colors, making it the perfect time to embark on memorable hikes. Among the region’s many gems, Silver Falls, Salmon River Trail, and Latourell Falls are a must-see!

These are truly some of my favorite fall hikes and I am excited to share them with you!

1. Silver Falls State Park: Nature’s Masterpiece

(Photo taken this past weekend!)

Silver Falls State Park, located in Oregon, is renowned for its magnificent waterfalls and lush forests. The trail takes you behind two falls that are the perfect backdrop for photos. At the right time of day, the sun hits the trees perfectly to show off the vibrant colors of the forest.

Here are two options for choosing your best trail experience:
A. Trail of Ten Falls: The crown jewel of Silver Falls, this 7.2-mile loop trail introduces hikers to a mesmerizing array of waterfalls, including South Falls, which cascades amidst vibrant foliage. The trail’s moderate difficulty level makes it accessible to all.
B. Maple Ridge Loop Trail: For a shorter, family-friendly hike, the 2.5-mile Maple Ridge Loop Trail offers panoramic views of the forest canopy, highlighted by the fiery hues of maple trees.

2. Salmon River Trail: A Wilderness Retreat

Salmon River Trail in Oregon is a hidden gem that comes alive with autumn colors. This family-friendly trail takes hikers deep into the wilderness, providing a serene and remote hiking experience. If you go at the right time, you can see the Salmon spawning in the crystal-clear water!

The Salmon River Trail offers a family-friendly 5.2-mile hike with breathtaking views of the Salmon River, which is surrounded by towering trees adorned with golden and red leaves in the fall. As a less frequented trail, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, with the soothing sound of the river as your constant companion.

3. Latourell Falls: A Columbia Gorge Beauty

Latourell Falls, located in the Columbia River Gorge of Oregon, is famous for its stunning single-drop waterfall and vibrant fall foliage. Make sure to hit this trail early to avoid crowds.

Here are two options to get the most out of your experience:
A. Latourell Falls Loop: This moderate 2.4-mile loop trail provides a close encounter with the 224-foot Latourell Falls, framed by a backdrop of striking autumn colors. Once you pass the 2nd waterfall, you will climb to views that are unmatched in the Columbia River Gorge.
B. Latourell Falls: This easy .23-mile hike is perfect for your family of all ages to get a gorgeous view of the falls and see all the Autumn colors with giant golden leaves. Make sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in Guy Talbot Park after your hike.

 

Tips for making your hikes worry-free:

1. All of these parks require a day-use pass for $5. You can also purchase an annual NW Forest Pass and/or a State Park pass for $30
2. Dress for the weather, layers are best during this time of year.
3. Leave no trace. Please pick up after yourself and your pet (No dogs allowed at Silver Falls)

As the Season changes, the Pacific Northwest’s hiking trails beckon with their enchanting beauty.
Silver Falls, Salmon River Trail, and Latourell Falls are just a few of the region’s gems that offer
unforgettable fall hiking experiences. Whether you seek the grandeur of waterfalls, the solitude of
remote trails, or the charm of single-drop cascades, these destinations promise a symphony of
colors and a deep connection with nature. So, put on your hiking boots, grab your camera, and
immerse yourself in the wonders of autumn in the Pacific Northwest.

What are your favorite hikes?  Reach out, I would love to hear from you.  As an avid hiker and Oregon native, I love sharing my favorite gems.

10 Favorite Campgrounds Near Portland

Posted on by Marika Feibel

Summer is winding down so if you haven’t gone camping yet, consider these spots if you’re looking for unforgettable outdoor experiences and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you crave the serenade of flowing creeks or the tranquility of forests, this blog is your ultimate guide. From breathtaking scenery to meticulously maintained facilities, each campground offers unique highlights that set them apart. Let’s explore our top 10 favorite campgrounds near Portland.

#1 Columbia River RV Park

Located 10 miles north of downtown, Columbia River RV Park is a premier site for RV campers. All comforts of home are offered in this well-appointed park for a comfortable stay.

There are plenty of spacious sites with full hookups, on-site laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, a recreation room, showers, and clean restrooms. Moreover, over-35’ and pull-through sites are available, and extra-long RVs are welcome.

One main highlight of this RV park is its proximity to some of the top attractions in Portland, including Owens Sports Complex, Columbia Children’s Arboretum Park, and Portland International Raceway. Daily rates are $46 (economy, small, medium, and large sites) and $52 (pull-through and premium sites).

#2 Barton Park Campground

Source: https://www.clackamas.us/parks/barton.html

To those who want to take a break from the busy city and get reconnected with nature, Barton Park Campground which is located on Clackamas River is the ideal destination. The campground has 112 campsites, including 103 sites with electric and water hookups.

Aside from camping, this unique park features hiking, event amenities, multi-day use amenities, and various river recreation opportunities. A boat ramp, picnic tables, a playground, fire rings, flush toilets, a dump station, showers, restrooms, and drinking water are available within the campground.

Families with kids can enjoy a game of horseshoes. The park is also a favorite spot for hiking, boating, and fishing. Campsite rates range from $21 to $81 per night.

#3 Cascade Locks/Portland East KOA Holiday

Cascade Locks KOA, nestled in the heart of Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable camping experience. This campground, with its prime location and modern amenities, provides a relaxing atmosphere and easy access to countless exciting activities and natural wonders.

The campground boasts forested tent sites, cabins, deluxe cabins, and full hookup RV sites. Firewoods, bike rentals, a pool, propane, Wi-Fi, cable TV, a hot tub/sauna, laundry facilities, a gift shop, and a playground are available in the campground.

Campers can enjoy activities in the nearby canyon which includes fishing and hiking. Campsite rates start at $37 avg/night.

#4 Ainsworth State Park Campground

With 6 walk-in tent sites and 42 full hookups campsites for trailers, RVs, and tents, Ainsworth State Park Campground is a hiker’s paradise and tranquil retreat with breathtaking waterfalls. Open mid-March through October, the park is surrounded by mature trees, providing shade for a cozy and comfortable stay.

Campsites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. An RV dump station, hot showers, flush toilets, firewood, drinking water, and a playground are also available within the campground. Outdoor recreations include fishing, windsurfing, hiking, kayaking, and biking.

This campground serves as a convenient base when you’re looking to explore the Columbia River Gorge and the area’s historic sites. Campsite fees range from $17 to $26 per night.

#5 Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground

Featuring a distinct combination of recreation, history, and nature, Champoeg State Heritage Areaoffers a scenic landscape of a bygone era. The campground has 81 campsites, including 21 full hookup sites, 54 partial hookup sites, and 6 walk-in tent sites.

There are also 6 cabins, 6 yurts, 3 group tent sites, a bicyclist/hiker camp, and a group RV loop. Hot showers, flush toilets, a dump station, hiking trails, exhibit information, bike paths, disc golf, and an amphitheater can be found in the area. Aside from the hiking trails, there are several historic buildings you can explore.

Champoeg State Heritage Area’s ecologically rich surroundings house over 130 bird species making it an ideal location to appreciate wildlife. This is also the site where the first provisional government in Oregon was formed. Campsite fees range from $21 to $58 per night.

#6 Wyeth Campground

An hour away east of Portland, Wyeth Campground offers 3 group sites and 13 individual sites in a beautiful camping spot surrounded by towering trees. Due to its location, outdoor recreational opportunities are abundant, including scenic drives, hiking, fishing, and exploring historic sites.

Each site includes a fire grill and picnic table. Only small RVs and trailers (less than 30 feet in length) are allowed and there are no hookups available. The campground has flush toilets, hot and cold water, tent pads, potable water, and showers.

The campground is popular in the area so make sure to reserve early. The camping fee is $20/night for one vehicle and single unit and $30/night for a group site.

#7 Gone Creek Campground

Sitting on the edge of Timothy Lake, Gone Creek Campground is surrounded by green, lush forest. This campground has 49 campsites for trailers, RVs, and tents, including 18 pull-through sites.

Water activities like boating, fishing, and kayaking as well as hiking and horseback riding are popular activities in the campground. There are no hookups but each site has a fire ring with a grill and picnic table. Other facilities include a boat ramp, vault toilets, and drinking water.

With its proximity to the lake and other historic buildings in the area, the campground is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike, so make sure to reserve a site ahead of time. Daily/nightly campsite rates range from $26 to $52.

#8 Bayport RV Park and Campground

Bayport RV Park and Campground, adjacent to Scappoose Bay Marine Park, is an idyllic spot that attracts campers with its myriad of activities and scenic surroundings. This campground has 23 RV sites and tents are allowed on paved/gravel areas only.

All sites are 25’ wide and have electricity and water hookups. Park amenities include showers, restrooms, Wi-Fi, and an automated RV dump station. The boat launch fee is included with your site rental but overnight moorage is $17 per night. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there’s a paved nature trail you can explore or you can just relax on the shore and enjoy the breathtaking sunset.

On the other hand, the campground is a paradise for water lovers. With its proximity to the bay, boating, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing is just a stone’s throw away. Rates are $30 per night.

#9 L.L. Stub Stewart State Park Campground

Just over 30 miles west of Portland, L.L. Stub Stewart State Park Campground offers the best backyard camping experience. With its numerous trails and variety of camping opportunities, this campground boasts 78 full hookups RV sites, 15 cabins, 12 walk-in tent sites, and universal access to several sites and cabins at Dairy Creek.

Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring and table. The campground has flush and vault toilets, drinking water, a playground, hot showers, a visitor center, two reservable meeting halls, and an open picnic shelter. Some of the sites have good shade but all of them are paved.

Outdoor recreation activities include hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and disc golf. Campsite rates start at $11 per night.

#10 Mt. Hood Village RV Resort

Known as Oregon’s premier RV resort, Mt. Hood Village offers a variety of rental accommodations and over 300 wooded RV sites. This particular spot is the ideal destination for all kinds of retreats, large family gatherings, or a simple weekend getaway in the mountains.

Each RV site is equipped with a fire pit, picnic table, and either full or partial hookups. Other rentals like yurts, cabins, tiny houses, and cottages have modern amenities like kitchen appliances, fully equipped baths, BBQ grills, and extended outdoor space. A store, clubhouse, library, game room, playground, fitness center, restaurant, spa/hot tub, WiFi, shower/restroom facilities, laundry facilities, biking trails, and hiking trails in the park.

Explore beyond the campground and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Mt. Hood National Forest. Popular activities include rock climbing and fishing. The site rates range from $70 to $209 per night.

Takeaway

So there you have it, our top 10 best spots for camping around Portland. We hope our guide has given you insightful ideas and inspiration for your upcoming holiday, whether you’re looking for picturesque lakeside views or family-friendly amenities.

The best thing, though? You are welcome to bring your four-legged companions along for the adventure at any of these campgrounds. Go forth and embrace the wonders that await in these boundaries. Happy camping!

What in the World is Really Happening in the Real Estate Market?

Posted on by Eric Hagstette

Watch the video here or read the transcription below (with some edits for clarity)

What’s up everybody and thanks for joining me for this week’s market minute. Now, somehow we found ourselves in 2023 and how we got here I have no idea, but the market is just cruising right along. I’m here to bring clarification to the number one question we’ve been getting from our buyers, our sellers, and those sitting on the sidelines — what in the world is going on in the market out there? We’re getting tons of varying market information ranging from multiple offers, bidding wars, hot market activity, and conversely, price reductions and no market activity. So I can totally imagine how this conflicting information would be confusing to the layperson who’s trying to make sense of the market.

So here’s my rundown.  The market is changing on a week-to-week basis. It’s very important to pay close attention and rely on a professional to navigate these waters for you. The feds are manipulating interest rates, not mortgage interest rates, but the federal interest rates have a lot of the people watching the news concerned about what’s going on out there. Now, while mortgage interest rates are volatile, we’re still creating wins every week for our buyers and sellers. How? you ask.  Well number one, our buyers are showing fortitude and sometimes patience as they navigate the market and trust us to use buying tools such as rate buy downs, closing cost credits, concessions, and other negotiations that we haven’t seen others using. And for our sellers, it gets even easier because we still have a low inventory market and so we’re focusing on the basics of listing real estate based on price, condition, and access. If you give us those three or as many of those three as you can, we’re going to create great results for you in the market.

So my lesson to you today is that sidelining can actually cost you money. How? Well, if we all waited for a “hot market” we would all be stymied and frustrated with tight market conditions once again. So if you’re taking yourself off the sidelines in an opportunistic market like today, you may be narrowing your chances of homeownership or making the move that you want in a market that can afford you to move up or down. Now I realize that many of you have low-interest rates locked in. Actually, 65% of homeowners in America are locked in under 3% so we realize the bottleneck that this creates. However, once we move through that and once the market starts easing up we’re all going to be able to move around a little bit better and take advantage of these conditions. So please don’t wait until the market is good because when it’s good for someone it’s usually not good for this other person. Your unique real estate goals and needs are specific to you, not the market. In general, I promise we have a solution just for you. It’s never too early just to call and talk shop. Thanks for reading or listening and I’ll see you on the next one.

2023 Portland Real Estate Market Outlook

Posted on by Eric Hagstette

Watch the video here or read the transcription below (with some edits for clarity)

 

Happy New Year everybody! I’m Eric Hagstette with Inhabit Real Estate and I am really glad to be taking on this subject with you. We have a lot to talk about, so let’s jump right in! 2022 is in the rearview mirror; for some, it was a good year and for others a tough one. For most real estate professionals, we are likely saying “see you later 2022”, and we’re really excited to have a new year in front of us.

With all that said, there’s still a ton of noise and mixed information floating around out there, so I would like to share with you my projections and outlook as I look into the new year. I don’t have a crystal ball, but after almost 20 years in the business, I’ve been in similar markets before and I want to share with you what I believe is going on.

Let’s start with what the experts are saying. We’ve been hearing for months that this high-interest rate environment is going to stymie the market until mid to late 2023. Then interest rates will begin to stabilize which will encourage more inventory in the market and more buyers’ confidence.

What is happening now, in all reality here in Portland, is inventory is dipping down. We are now below two months of housing inventory and even further down for detached single-family homes. Remember, lower inventory means higher demand. Also, we are really excited to see interest rates coming down. Now, we’ve all heard about improving inflationary numbers which is the reason for interest rates decreasing. Buyers are coming out of the holidays really hungry; the market is active and our brokers are out there showing property. So that’s the truth about what’s happening here in the Portland market.

My concern, outlook, or projection is that we’ll continue to see a reduction of housing inventory as the buyers get out and gobble it up and we might be entering another tight year of housing inventory and pricing on the rise. I know that sounds very different than what you were expecting to hear, but
Portland’s market is pointing in a direction that is similar to a cycle we’ve seen here in the past.

So, what is my advice with all this information? Number one, listen to your local real estate expert. Call your favorite Inhabit broker and have them give you the lowdown on your neighborhood and your specific real estate. Everybody’s goals and situations are different and very specific so get it locally and ignore the national news. Number two, Portland is so hyper-local. We have an urban growth boundary that has always limited our supply and we’ve always shown a significant amount of resilience in unusual market times. When they say “keep Portland weird,” it applies to real estate as well. Finally, transitioning or moderating markets are those that bring opportunity. That’s one of the silver linings to all this. There are great buys out there for our buyers. We are negotiating on price, credits, repairs, and even rate buy-down points for our buyers, and at the same time, we are making our sellers really happy with proper pricing, presentation and a marketing plan to position their sale for best results.

So, in the end, real estate is based on you (our clients). Your timeline, your goals and your specific situation. It’s not about market conditions, seasonality, or what some brokers say. So, ignore the noise and call us for advice. It’s never too early and you know we will be here for you. Thanks for listening (or reading). I look forward to bringing you a lot more information in the new year along with some of my broker colleagues. So, tune in, ask your questions and post your comments. Thanks for being here.

Summer Lovin’

Posted on by Alison Derse

June is National Homeowners Month, and homeowners have much to celebrate. Not only is real estate one of the best investments you can make in your lifetime, owning your home helps strengthen your connection to neighbors and community. It acts as a private safe haven, and, if managed correctly, can provide personal and financial stability.

Today, 65.6% of Americans own their own homes, and as a result of the most recent real estate boom, owners are now sitting on record amounts of home equity. What can you do with that equity? Some of the best ways to leverage your home equity include: financing large home improvement projects that may help raise the overall value; consolidating or paying off high-interest debts like student loans or credit cards; purchasing long-term investments like vacation property; funding college-bound children, a wedding, or even a new business venture.

It is always a good idea to consult with your lender and/or financial advisor to ensure the best course of action. Tapping your home equity in a proper and constructive manner can be a highly effective way to further build your personal wealth.

 

Market Update: June 2021

It’s hard to believe but the average sales price of Portland homes just keeps spiraling higher and higher, up an astonishing 18.9% from last June. The insatiable buyer appetite is gobbling up well-positioned inventory whenever it appears, in shorter amounts of time, and often for over the asking price which continues to be terrific news for sellers. With historically low interest rates, it’s actually more affordable to buy a home today than at any time in the past eight years. Rates are still above the record lows we saw at the end of 2020, but they are better than the slight spike in February and March of this year. Buying while mortgage rates are this low many help save you money over the course of your home loan.

 

Local Getaway: Beavercreek

My wife and I recently celebrated our wedding anniversary with a weekend in nearby wine country. Located just 20 miles south of Portland in Beavercreek, we found one gem of an AirBnB on a small family farm and vineyard bordering an old growth forest. We were hosted by a very kind family in a beautiful and thoughtfully designed passive solar home complete with a magical garden, cedar hot tub, in-house massages, home-cooked meals, and of course, some fantastic pinot noir. Anyone looking for a tranquil getaway in a gorgeous setting, let me know and I’ll spill the beans on the listing.

If you’re looking for a little more data, reach out for a custom analysis to support your personal real estate goals. I am always available to help answer any home related questions you may have.

Market Optimism

Posted on by Alison Derse

Do you fancy yourself an electrician? Perhaps a plumber? Certainly a painter? If you are anything like me, you may think that the easiest, quickest and most inexpensive solution to your home improvement needs is you, your trusty hammer and a reliable YouTube tutorial. Over the past year the DIY industry has been in full swing as more homeowners have been tackling their own house projects. From the bathroom to the garage and everywhere in between, the yearning to correct that wonky cabinet door, replace a loose shower tile or build a backyard fence is evident and the solution clearly in your hands. Yet, homeowners have reported spending an average of $184.13 to fix their failed DIY house projects, according to a new survey from Cinch Home Services, a home warranty company.

These are the most common DIY fails, according to the survey:

 

If you are all right in handing over the hammer to a professional, from roofers and landscapers, to chimney and foundation specialists, I’ve amassed an extensive list of reputable (local) vendors for your every home need. Just say the word and I will happily share a contact, or several. It’s always a good practice to consult more than one vendor for ideas and pricing and never hurts to get a second opinion, aside from that of your loyal pet or significant other.

Market Update: May 2021

The strong sellers market continues to loom large. Interest rates remain at historic lows, multiple offers are the norm on well positioned homes and the average sales price ($557,900 in Portland Metro) is still on the rise. For those considering a home sale, it behooves you to take advantage of exceedingly high buyer demand and before you have any added competition in your neighborhood, with all the competition out there it is best to remain positive. Be patient and try to keep emotional decisions to a minimum – we want you to enjoy your home and your investment for years to come.

There is still a ways to go before we see an abundance of homes on the market but there are some promising signs as of late. As the economy continues to improve (along with those flush with newfound equity and aiming for new horizons), and people get vaccinated and feel more comfortable getting out, more inventory is certain to appear.

Fannie Mae reports consumer positivity regarding home-selling conditions matching an all-time high. And a realtor.com survey concluded that one-in-ten homeowners plan on selling this year, with 63% of those looking to list in the next six months.

Please feel free to reach out if you’d like a custom home analysis or have any questions.

Local Artist Spotlight: Me!

For the past twenty years, I’ve been designing program logos and communication collateral for corporate events. These were created largely for business meetings and incentive campaigns that took savvy travelers to destinations around the globe. Sadly, these elaborate events came to a screeching halt at the onset of the pandemic. As a result, hundreds of thousands of livelihoods have been upturned, including my own; it will be some time before they return in full.

In the spirit of Beeple, the digital artist who recently created and sold the most expensive piece of NFT (non-fungible token) art, I’ve compiled dozens of my own creations, favorite logos from over the years. From Bora Bora to Prague, Japan to South Africa, my aim was to capture the essence of these dreamy locations within a single brand. And now for your armchair-travel-viewing pleasure. If you’ve been looking to jump into the crypto-currency arena and are in the market for an NFT, perhaps I can put my screen-savvy sons to task in getting this onto the EPH blockchain.

I understand most of you are relatively settled in your current homes. But if your friends, family members, neighbors and work colleagues have expressed any interest in seeking greener pastures, your referrals would mean the world to me.

Seasonal Real Estate

Posted on by Alison Derse

Growing up in Santa Fe, New Mexico and Tulsa, Oklahoma, I developed an affinity for the seasons. Delightfully, here in Portland, we get a wonderful taste of all four seasons, from the *generous* rainy season to some gorgeous spring days, a handful of summer scorchers and even some blustery snow days. The variety is as welcomed as it is vital, to my mental state anyway. Even the recent ice storm was something to behold. While entertaining in its drama, it was certainly disconcerting for many of us. And yet another reminder of how dear it is …our place called home.

As with the weather, the real estate market typically follows a seasonal pattern. With COVID dramatically altering that pattern in the spring of 2020, and confidence now growing with the rollout of vaccines, we suspect that inventory will start to increase as people feel more confident to sell. Sales in 2021 may not follow traditional seasonal patterns and hopefully, buyer demand and consumer confidence will remain aloft.

Even during the financial crisis of 2008 there was still demand for properties that had the right look, the right price, and were in the right location. In 2021, sellers should follow similar behavior, fixing up their property and pricing appropriately to attract the widest range of buyers. Buyers should be prepared to move quickly, possibly use pre-emptive offers (which are becoming more common), and keep an open mind when looking for their home: all purchases require some compromise (yes, even for multi-million dollar properties), so you might need a little more creativity and patience to take a diamond in the rough and make it yours.

Reach out if you want to know how to best prepare for 2021.

Market Update: January 2021

What a year already. Median home prices in the Portland Metro area reached a new high: $460,000, an eye-opening 13.3% increase over the previous year. Homes sold an average of 11.2% over list price in January, in an average of 44 days on market.

There are a large number of sellers getting ready to list sooner than the typical spring selling market, so buyers should be ready to move quickly, and sellers should be ready for a higher level of competition.

Mortgage Update

Interest rates remain at near record lows, with purchase rates in the mid to upper 2’s and refinance rates only marginally higher.  We are seeing day to day volatility the past few weeks resulting in a slight upward trend in rates.  Among economists there is much disagreement, with President Biden’s proposed $1.9 Trillion Relief Plan of greatest concern. The concern is that this plan may overheat the economy, leading to a stock market bubble and increased inflation, this in turn would cause mortgage interest rates to rise.  The general consensus for 2021 is that we will see more rates in the 3’s and less in the 2’s, which is still low enough to continue to support the strong demand for housing.

For now, rates are at record lows and it’s still a great time to refinance or get pre-approved for a mortgage. If you have any questions, please contact Martin Matsumura at Academy Mortgage via martin.matsumura@academymortgage.com or 503.536.9385.

 

How We are Handling the Second Wave of COVID-19

Posted on by Eric Hagstette

November 16, 2020 Update

As we all know, COVID-19 is on the rise in Oregon and Governor Brown has instituted a statewide freeze.  At Inhabit, we are committed to keeping the health and safety of our clients and agents at the forefront of everything we do.  Strict office policies are in place to ensure a safe work environment.  We also updated all of our client engagement protocols so the health and safety of our clients come first.  Last March, we launched our Couch Concierge service that brings the entire home buying and selling process to our clients.  Everything from virtual open houses, live video showings with our agents, to virtual contracts and closings.

Here is a recap of how we continue to tailor and improve our services during COVID-19:

Our sellers shouldn’t worry about canceled open houses.  We will create a digital marketing campaign that brings your house to potential buyers all without risking anyone’s health or safety.  Our agents will tailor a showing plan that you feel the most comfortable with.

We have a lot of active buyers right now.  To short-list property options, we offer live video tours.  Your agent will walk you through the property showing you every nook and cranny with honest feedback on quality or construction issues they see– all from the safety of your home.   

In-person tours of your “must-see” homes are still an option in most cases when necessary, but with precautions we take very seriously.  Our agents are following the recommended 6 ft of social distancing, mask-wearing, and strict hand-washing and disinfecting policies.  We will not show homes to anyone that has cold or flu symptoms or has had any exposure to COVID-19 within 2 weeks of the showing.  As your agent, we promise you the same courtesy and will pair you with another Inhabit team member to safely show you the home if we are under the weather or are concerned about personal exposure.  Your agent will provide our COVID-19 Safe Showing Policies for your review prior to visiting any property in-person so you can make the best decision for your health and safety.

As a small business, we put the care of our clients and agents first.  We are all in this together. We promise to use integrity and knowledge as our guiding force.

Here’s to peace, health, and prosperity for all of us in the coming months.

Eric 

Meet Our Founder

Posted on by Eric Hagstette

Our fearless leader, Eric Hagstette, is this month’s cover feature in Portland Real Producers Magazine.  Click the magazine image below to see the full article and learn what motivates this great guy.

 

Here’s the transcript of the article:

Eric Hagstette’s social conscience is one of his strongest driving forces. Owner and principal broker of Inhabit Real Estate, Eric is this month’s Top Producer.

Starting his career in business to business sales for a Fortune 300 New York-based company, Eric transitioned into real estate in 2005. He looks back on his time in Corporate America with gratitude and appreciation for teaching him the fundamentals of sales, marketing, and most important, follow-up. “This is where I also learned that excuses are…just that,” Eric explains.

As a longtime Portlander, Eric is passionate about our city and how it is being affected by the pandemic, wildfires and smoke, protests, riots, and the current political divide. When asked how the wild ride of 2020 has affected his business, he told us, “Big question. The big picture crises we’re facing are much bigger than our work. They are more important than selling real estate, and we’re right in the heart of all of it. ‘Home’ has never been more important and we are in the business of ‘home.’ I feel torn between all of the hardships resulting from COVID-19 and the abundance that real estate is providing as a result of these unprecedented times. Transactionally speaking, we are in the right place at the right time… there is no shortage of business. Portland has certainly seen its day in the news through all of this and the long-term effect on our business is hard to predict. One of the silver linings of all of these things, from my observation, is a galvanization of the brokerage community. From COVID-19 to wildfires (and everything in between), I’ve seen brokers work together like never before. Kudos to all of you. Thank you.”

Real estate brings with it many rewards. For Eric, one of the biggest rewards comes in the form of the various relationships he has been able to foster over the years. “Hands down it’s all about the people. Not just my clients but my colleagues, my team, my mentors, my co-op agents, my vendors, our neighbors.”

Eric also finds fulfillment in owning and managing Inhabit Real Estate. “Operationally, managing a residential real estate brokerage while simultaneously running my personal sales business allows me to wear all the hats. From coaching my agents to prospecting for business, writing copy for ads, working on budgets and business plans, and everything in between. And who doesn’t love houses, photography, interior design, architecture, marketing, continuing education, networking, and all the fun stuff? Of course, our job also comes with all the tough stuff like unpredictable market conditions, challenging clients, paying taxes, delivering bad news, the emotional roller coaster of real estate, and the woes of being self-employed.

Luckily, my attention span helps me thrive in this multi-tasking, fast-paced, up-and-down market. I honestly love all of it.”

Finding passion in all of the possibilities that real estate affords, motivates Eric on a daily basis. “I have always been passionate about the unlimited possibilities that a real estate license affords us. With hard work and a simple plan, the sky’s the limit for REALTORS®. Playing such a pivotal role in times of transition for my clients is a huge responsibility. I have always held the importance of this piece with passion and drive. As a brokerage owner, I am passionate about teaching, training, and watching my brokers achieve their goals and dreams through real estate.”

Eric’s biggest reward in life is his family. Due to the pandemic, Eric has spent more time at home with his family than at any other time in his professional career and for him, this has been a huge blessing. “My family is the driving force behind my success. Not only do they motivate me every day but, as many of you know, to support the life of a REALTOR® requires a special family support unit. My family rides the roller coaster right by my side and they provide a safe haven to escape to. I’ve been married to my wife Kim for 21 years. I thank my lucky stars every day that our paths crossed. Not only is she my life partner, but she’s also my business partner and co-owner of Inhabit Real Estate, all the while holding down the fort at home and running her award-winning interior design business. We have two amazing teenagers who keep me in check and make sure I’m as ‘woke’ as possible for an almost-50-year- old dad. I learn a ton from my kids. I have so much hope for the younger generations who know more about equality, acceptance, and non-judgment. We can all take a note from the kids of today and appreciate their fire and passion, their resilience and brilliance, and their endurance through these unusual times. And, by way of osmosis and exposure (to me), my family knows more about oil tanks, sewer lines, multiple offers, and even the value of off-street parking.”

Along with the rewards of real estate comes the challenges. This year has been trying for everyone. The devastation from wildfires and the loss of life and business upheaval caused by the pandemic is horrific. We asked Eric what new challenges he has been facing and navigating since the pandemic hit and he told us, “Wildfires, extremely hazardous air quality, political unrest, social outcry and one of the most significant Presidential elections in history, all the while keeping pace with one of the busiest markets I have experienced in 15+ years of selling real estate. The erosion of affordable housing in Portland is accelerating at light speed and this is an indirect challenge that we cannot turn a blind eye to. The pandemic, wildfires, and the election will be in our rear-view mirror in the not-too-distant future, but not addressing the homeless crisis will likely have the greatest future impact on Portland livability and the bottom line of our business.”

Eric has a competitive side that he feeds with his love of cycling and bike racing. He has loved bikes since he was a child and has been racing for the past 10 years. “I’m a die-hard cyclist and bike racer. I love carbon, clicky pedals, training, going fast, and Lycra (yep, I said it…I love Lycra). Cycling keeps my body fit and my mind sane. It feeds my competitive spirit and, unintentionally, is a huge part of my networking sphere. My relationship with my teammates and fellow cycling friends is based on trust and trust is the foundation of our profession so these things go hand in hand.”

The Hagstette family are water enthusiasts. If there is water, you will find them nearby or right in it! “My family loves the water. We have a floating home and spend the summer paddleboarding, kayaking, floating, boating, swimming, and fishing.”

As you would expect, with his strong social conscience Eric does not just think about the changes that need to take place. He helps facilitate the change. Annually, Inhabit Real Estate picks a charitable cause that focuses on alleviating homelessness, “We have thrown hammers for Habitat for Humanity, organized holiday toy drives, and collected much-needed essentials for homeless children and families. As a family, our focus is on Transition Projects. Every month for the last few years, we have prepared and served dinner and lunches at multiple locations that are focused on men, women, and families transitioning out of homelessness.” Eric also aids the community by coaching youth swimming and sponsoring free junior bike racing at The Portland Trophy Cup Cyclocross series.

In closing, we asked Eric if he would like to communicate anything additional to the readers of Portland Real Producers magazine. Without hesitation, he responded, “As a longtime Portlander, I’ve always held a special place in my heart for this amazing city. I am sure I am not alone when I say that Portland is at a very important crossroads. ‘Home’ is our business and we’re paid to sell the ‘Portland experience.’ ‘Home’ doesn’t just apply to our qualified buyers and sellers. It applies to all people occupying the space called Portland including those with the means to buy or rent real estate and those that are sleeping outside under tarps. We must realize that even though we only serve a portion of Portland residents, they all make up the community, whether they have a house or not. It is our duty as ‘real producers’ and leaders in our industry to help Portland through these growing pains. While the country seems to grow in divide, it is very important for us to come together to put Portland back on track to be the darling of the Northwest. As we buzz through town enjoying the fruits of this market, I encourage you to think more critically about the ‘in your face’ issues that are easy to turn a blind eye to: mental illness, drug addiction, systemic racism, climate change, and environmental destruction and affordable housing. Raise your voice and vote. We must demand more from our local leadership and lean hard on them to properly address these big issues which not only affect our profession but our lives as well.

 

 

Unlocking Trapped Equity

Posted on by Alison Derse

Did you know that your home can be an excellent source of funds? Tapping your home equity can be a low-cost way to borrow large sums at favorable interest rates in order to pay for home projects or debt consolidation. Home equity debt is not a good way to fund recreational expenses or routine monthly bills.

You’ll want to choose wisely how you utilize these funds, but given the incredibly low interest rates, now would be a perfect time to consider this option. Here are some of the most common ways to access the equity in your home: a Second Mortgage or Home Equity Loan, a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC), and a Cash-Out Refinance. Here’s a link to the differences between these options. The best option for you will depend on your financial situation and future plans.   

The smartest strategy for accessing your home equity really depends on what you want to do with the money. Some examples are: lump-sum expenses or debt consolidation; home improvements or starting a business; pay-off high interest loans or credit cards. These options can be extremely helpful for anyone saddled with unexpected financial challenges. Home equity debt can also be a good way to invest in the future. The key is to make sure that you are borrowing at the lowest possible interest rate. Rates are now at historic lows.  

A Cash-Out Refinance was a personal option for my wife and myself. As interest rates started to decline, we opted to refinance our first home, which we still own. We were able to pay off some credit card debt, and more importantly, we were able to use some as a down payment toward the purchase of a second home.  

If you’d like to learn more about what your current home value is and how to make it work for you, I’d love to be a resource for information or to connect you with a mortgage advisor to help you unlock some of the equity in your home.

Impressions of Home

Perhaps some of my fondest childhood memories are from our family home in La Cienega, a rural community just outside of Santa Fe, New Mexico. The home itself was a traditional adobe with a maze-like floor plan, flag-stone floors, creative built-ins and seven fireplaces! None of the fireplaces had dampers (= bad energy score!) and there was a cracked viga (traditional wooden beam) that worried us all … gotta tend to those home repairs! But what captured me most was the surrounding 2.5 acres and beyond. Running alongside the home was an irrigation canal filled with pollywogs and wild spearmint. Next to the canal an enormous cottonwood tree and treehouse with a perilous entry over a cliff. We had endless dirt hills for forts and Big Wheels and a creek where we’d build dams and go fishing. It was a truly magical place to grow up.

La Cienega, New Mexico • 3 bed 2 bath 7 fireplaces 3658 sq. ft. 2.5 acres.
This house was purchased for $43,500 in 1975. Now valued at $471,000.
The purported interest rate back then was near 9%.

My father once arranged for my sister and I to play Zoolander and model some clothes for a Japanese children’s fashion magazine called SESAME. The photographers chose our home as a backdrop for many of the photos. Below you can see the sketchy treehouse above the cliff and irrigation canal and an old claw-foot bathtub my parents eventually installed in another home. I don’t recall receiving any dough or threads for my hard work, and I can guarantee you I haven’t dressed this well since. Just glad they captured my happy mug!

 

Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions about what your home equity can do for you.

Ways to Support Our Black Community

Posted on by Eric Hagstette

Silence is Violence. That statement on a protester’s sign really hit home. By sitting on the sidelines and not voicing our collective outrage, we are perpetuating racism. Our greatest tool is our voices — not quietly commiserating, while keeping our mouths shut. We have the power to vote for the right leaders, raise children that celebrate differences, hire the right people and support our community’s Black and minority run businesses (to name just a few). 

I have compiled some of the many resources shared with me. Here are a few of the things we can do right now in our fight for social justice-

  1. Educate yourself on what challenges our Black family members face on a daily basis.  Here are a few resources worth exploring:
  1. Sign a Petition (DontShootPDX.org has also put together a list of other petitions and useful resources):

The Color of Change petition that asks Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey to block the involved police officers in the George Floyd case from receiving their pensions and from becoming police officers again.  You can also text “Floyd” to the number 55156.

  1. Donate to organizations like your local Black Lives Matter chapter. Other great organizations are:
  1. Support Black and minority run local businesses:

https://mercatuspdx.com/

https://blackpdx.com/

https://iloveblackfood.com/

 

Race and racism is a reality that so many of us grow up learning to just deal with. But if we ever hope to move past it, it can’t just be on people of color to deal with it. It’s up to all of us — Black, white, everyone — no matter how well-meaning we think we might be, to do the honest, uncomfortable work of rooting it out.

– Michelle Obama

 

 

Something to Look Forward to this Summer in PDX

Posted on by Eric Hagstette

This is a blog post I have looked forward to writing!  It’s all about simple pleasures these days.  Sauvie Island, for most Portlanders, evokes a special feeling.  It’s a short 10 miles from downtown, but crossing the Sauvie Island bridge and seeing sprawling farmland crowned by the four cascade mountain view (yes, on clear days you can see the top of Mt. Rainier too)–makes you exhale immediately.  For some it’s biking, beach combing, fishing, kayaking or hiking, but the collective draw is the farms.  Picking berries, stone fruit and flowers, hayrides, summer concerts, sipping wine and beer while dining on food cart delicacies and leaving with food grown by hardworking local farmers.  Summer isn’t complete in Portland without a day on Sauvie Island.

This year I had the ultimate pleasure of helping very dear friends of mine realize their dream of owning a farm on Sauvie Island. It was a complicated and emotional transaction for all, but the end result was relieved and happy clients!  Kruger’s Farm is now owned by an amazing local Sauvie Island family and has been renamed Topaz Farm.  Kat and Jim are two of the smartest, hardworking people I know and their vision for the farm is going to blow your mind.  Think farm-to-plate brunches and dinners, sipping wine, beer, local coffee or strawberry rhubarb lemonade while shopping in the farm store that features their own produce, as well as other Sauvie Island and local products.  They have in-house chefs that create pasta, kale chips, pastries, pies, sandwiches, otter pops, etc., for the farm store using their produce.  They use organic farming practices and plan to be an educational farm.  They’ve partnered with the Sauvie Island Center to create camp and field trip opportunities for our schools.  They are creating a bee wheel garden (the first of its kind on the west coast) and have all kinds of plans for future enrichment programs.  They’ve accomplished all this just since they purchased the farm in January.  Can you imagine what the future holds?!!

Of course COVID-19 has changed a few things, but visiting a farm and getting outside isn’t one of them.  Don’t we all need a change of scenery!  There are some things that are on hold right now and Topaz Farm is following a very strict COVID-19 policy to keep their customers and employees safe.  Follow them on Instagram or Facebook to stay up-to-date on berry picking calendars, farm-to-plate dinners and possibly a creative summer concert series.

When you visit Topaz Farm you will likely meet the whole family.  Their daughters Maggie and Odessa work right alongside of their parents.  Kat’s brother, Peter is working tirelessly to build all sorts of new farm features (clever mobile farm store displays, new pens for the animals, etc).  I know they will be pleased to make your acquaintance (tell ‘em we sent ya!)

My wife and I had the pleasure of visiting the farm on opening day, May 27th.  Enjoy some of the photos from our visit.

       

 

Adventures in DIY Gardening

Posted on by Eric Hagstette

Every spring, most of us find ourselves taking on projects as we come out of hibernation. This spring, while a bit different, is allowing us more time at home to clean our closets, organize, train for a marathon, or…go a bit crazy in the yard. Let me take a moment to say that Portland has some of the finest gardens in the world. One of my friends from Seattle even called our city’s favorite pastime “competitive gardening”. Personally, I have a list of outside projects to keep the family busy for a long time. In order to re-motivate myself and hopefully inspire others, I am going to share my backyard story from last spring. Keep in mind that each paragraph below is a weekend or 2 of actual labor with 2-4 workers.

On a fine April morning in 2019, I decided to take my coffee outside and hang out in the backyard. To my horror, the months of showers brought a jungle of waist high weeds, growing out of what I had thought to be a mulchy, forest floor under a Doug Fir. One of the reasons my significant other and I had purchased the house was to have awesome outdoor space, and we knew it was going to take some time and effort. Here was our first big project! My sweetie took a quick look at the mess and decided to fast track the project (he’s a bit meticulous and likes to keep very busy). We had been discussing a Japanese garden for months, so he sketched out a design on our son’s graph paper, and I called my parents to let them know we could use their help (they are the true green thumbs. I am a rookie).

Our first stop was The Home Depot, to find something to outline our path through the garden and keep the rocks we would be bringing in out of the mulch. We chose black plastic edging, about 4.5 inches in height. A 60-foot roll of this is about $30, and we would need 3-4 of them. There were other attractive options, but this was the right price. Digging mini trenches for the edging was a bit of a workout. We found that dragging a hammer in the dirt helped “bulldoze” a bit of a path in which we could then partially bury the edging. We also grabbed a few rolls of weed barrier fabric to lay down on the path where the gravel would eventually be. This was a very good move. I cannot imagine how much more we would have to weed if we had not done so.

Now it was time for some of the planting fun! We chose a few beauties to be focal points in the garden, including a Japanese maple, weeping blue cedar, bonsai and a pink hydrangea and rhododendron. Additionally, we planted a handful of ferns and grasses in groups of 3. We are fans of not over planting and giving everything room to grow. These were purchased from multiple Eastside businesses including Portland Nursery, and Tony’s Garden Center. After a bit of deliberation on where to place the plants, the digging commenced.

With the plants in place, it was time to purchase mulch and rock. Lucky for us, fabulous Mount Scott Fuel is right up the street. If you have access to a pick-up truck you can avoid paying for delivery.  They will load the product right into the bed of your truck, saving you quite a bit of money. We did this and found it easy to shovel out of our truck directly into the wheelbarrow that we borrowed from our awesome neighbor. Ultimately, we bought 3 yards of mulch, and had to make multiple trips to do so. (Caution-Do not overload your vehicle. Check weight limits)! Prices range from $32-45/yard if you pick up, and $100-130 if delivered. The following weekend was a similar routine, this time to purchase 2 yards of river rock. There are many different types of rock here, and you can check out samples in the office, and go into their yard to look at the big piles and get a different perspective. We opted for what I would call medium sized for ¼-¾ inch river rock to minimize gravel being tracked into the house. Our choice was very reasonably priced at $40/yard. Delivery would have been $115 for one yard, with discounts for 2 plus yards. Hauling the rock to the backyard was a bit more strenuous than moving the mulch, so it was helpful to have our strong 14-year old son around.

One of our final tasks on the project was to produce our own concrete circles in the path. My partner had a bit of experience working with concrete from his previous house, and he was excited to put his cement mixer to use again. To create the large circles, he constructed molds out of fiberboard and we placed them in the empty path. Then the concrete was mixed and poured in multiple batches. We made the small circles off to the side and simply placed them in the path after they were dry, and then finished filling in the river rock.

We spent a lot of time outside last year, and with spring’s arrival we are planning this year’s project: raised beds and vegetables, perfect for homeschooling and saving money on groceries!

For a video tour of the garden, click here!

COVID-19 Update from Inhabit’s Owner

Posted on by Eric Hagstette

March 31, 2020

The coronavirus is impacting everyone and every business in some way and the real estate industry is no exception.  In many ways we are lucky because our shift to doing things virtually isn’t as big a leap as some businesses are facing.  As a matter of fact, for many years we’ve been able to handle most of the home buying and selling transactions electronically.  During the COVID-19 pandemic, Inhabit is committed to keeping the health and safety of our clients and agents at the forefront of everything we do.  Even before Governor Brown initiated Oregon’s shelter-in-place order, Inhabit launched our Couch Concierge service that brings the entire home buying and selling process to our clients.  Everything from virtual open houses, live video showings with our agents, to virtual contracts and closings.

Our listing clients shouldn’t worry about canceled open houses.  We will create a digital marketing campaign that brings your house to potential buyers all without risking anyone’s health or safety.  Our agents will tailor a showing plan that you feel the most comfortable with.

For our buyers, we are hosting live video tours.  Our agents will walk you through the property showing you every nook and cranny with honest feedback on quality or construction issues they see.  

In-person tours are still an option in many cases when necessary, but with precautions we take very seriously.  We recommend live video tours for anyone that has cold or flu symptoms or concerned about a possible COVID-19 exposure.  This goes for clients, as well as, agents.  Our agents are following the recommended 6 ft of social distancing and strict hand-washing and disinfecting policies.  Our agents provide our COVID-19 Safe Showing policies to clients for review prior to visiting any property in-person so you can make the best decision for your health and safety.

We are a small business that puts the care of our clients and agents first.  I started this company six years ago because I knew there was a better, more innovative way to serve clients.  This is an industry that one-size definitely does not fit all.  Inhabit has always been forward-looking and our size allows us to be nimble in creating services that address changing needs and goals.  We are here to give you the best real estate advice possible, now and into the future.

Yours in health and prosperity!

Eric

How Your Home Can Provide Stability

Posted on by Eric Hagstette

For those of us invested in the stock market, we’ve all been wondering if the historic run of this bull market was ever going to end.  No one, however, could have predicted the coronavirus or imagine its global impact. The next few months are still unwritten and as we brace ourselves for how far reaching the effects will be.  It’s unsettling for everyone. The stock market volatility is reminiscent of 2008, but the cause is totally different, and it will have different effects. A recent New York Times article titled Buying a Home During a Pandemic reflected on the 2008 market by saying, “Many real estate shoppers were trying to weigh multiple moving pieces back in late 2008. That crisis was different — the S&P 500 would ultimately lose half its value from its peak, and home prices cratered, too. That’s not the case this time (so far, at least). And what has happened since 2008 should provide us some comfort right now.”

The article also reflects on the stability of the housing market versus the instability of the rental market.  There is some piece of mind knowing that you can capitalize on historically low interest rates to lock in a monthly payment that won’t change.  This is making home ownership much more attractive than renting in many cases.  

The news around COVID-19 feels surreal right now with everything seemingly in a holding pattern, but the root cause of what’s driving Portland’s housing demand will not be affected in the long run.  Portland is one of the strongest real estate markets in the country. It’s during times of crisis that people take the time to reflect on what’s really important. The certainty of having a safe place to call home tops most lists.  Also, the push to create a stay-at-home economy makes where you live more important than ever. Companies may realize that having their employees work from home has some financial benefits. This could very well make a shift to more people getting to decide where they want to live.  Lifestyle is a major driver to Portland’s growth. Are we now poised more than ever to see accelerated growth? I don’t have a crystal ball, but I would be willing to make a bet that the net effect of what’s happening right now will make people pause and consider what’s really important in life.

We have a unique situation with interest rates at historic lows and Portland housing demand still high.  With all the stock market volatility, finding some stability with a large asset like homeownership should be a consideration.  Whatever is important to you, there are options. You can refinance to lock in a lower monthly payment. You can upgrade your home and with the low interest rates end up paying close to what you are now.  You can downsize to streamline your finances and put money away to safeguard yourself against any future volatility. If you are a renter, you can give yourself more certainty by purchasing a home, locking in a monthly payment and having piece of mind that your dollars are going towards an investment for your future.

Whatever is important to you, please know that my team at Inhabit Real Estate is here to help you navigate your decision-making process.  We pride ourselves on being advisors, not salespeople. Let us help you find a strategy that works in your best interest. We are all in this together!

Connecting to Your Home

Posted on by Alison Derse

The Consumer Electronic Show 2020 recently wrapped up in Las Vegas. There were the usual cast of characters, giant televisions, mini projectors, mobile devices, and more suitcases that follow you around than humanity will ever need. There is one section of the event hall that has been growing and growing over the years and that’s the “Smart Home” section. What used to be a quiet corner of self-cleaning ovens and refrigerators with water filters, has now flooded into a vast expanse across the showroom floor consisting of everything from smart vacuums to motion tracking light bulbs.

This multi-billion-dollar industry has just started to bud into your home life and I’d like to see if I can’t help explain some of the basics that you need to know.

So, what is a smart device? By now we all know Alexa and Siri. Essentially a smart device is all part of The Internet of Things or IoT as it’s known. IoT is the interconnected network of objects like your phone talking with your microwave.

Smart devices can be super futuristic devices like retinal tracking door locks, to the most mundane toothbrush that tells you when to replace it.

Instead of going over every device out there, I want to focus on the basic ecosystems these devices work in and touch on the specific devices you can place in your home today!

Right now, in the Smart Home / Smart Assistant game there are really only 2 players, Google and Amazon. Apple is trying very hard and so is Microsoft, but as of now, they are failing to make a mark. There are also more than a handful of independent providers out there including Samsung’s own Bixby network, but again, those aren’t really considered contenders. 

Today Google’s “Google Assistant” and Amazon’s “Alexa Assistant” work with the lion’s share of smart devices out there. 

Google Home Speaker

One of the most popular devices on the market is the Ring system. If you don’t know, Ring is a doorbell that feeds live video to the IoT. Ring isn’t Google nor Amazon, but rather third-party hardware that works seamlessly with both. Most non-proprietary hardware will work with both Amazon and Google, as well as Apple, in the case of Ring. 

Since these devices are mostly available on both major ecosystems, the real question is “which ecosystem should you want to buy into?” 

Let’s get one thing straight, Google and Amazon make way more money selling your data than they ever will selling you devices or services so understanding what they’re doing with that data is vital. The biggest difference between Amazon and Google is what they do with your data. 

Let’s start with Amazon’s Alexa. Alexa is always listening, always! Amazon then uses AI learning to analyze what you want. Are you talking about needing new shoes or are you issuing a command? Amazon whistleblowers have even admitted that Amazon has live people that will analyze certain recordings that the AI struggled with. Amazon then discards the recordings. Because of this, Alexa is typically extremely responsive and users often comment on its speed and accuracy. 

Amazon Echo Dot Speaker

Google, on the other hand, only records once it hears a “hot word” like OK Google or Hey BooBoo (a little Easter egg for you Google users out there). That is then analyzed and hopefully your device does what you’ve asked. Google is then storing those recordings for now in hopes that once it’s AI has evolved enough it can be unleashed on all these recordings, but for now it sits on server farms in Arizona and Alabama.

If privacy is important to you, and the idea that Papa Bezos is listening to your musings about window coverings bothers you, then go Google. If you just want things to work every time regardless of the privacy you’re giving up, then go Amazon. 

Since it doesn’t really matter if you go Amazon or Google, where should you start? The first step would be getting a smart speaker like the Alexa speaker or the Google Home Speaker. If you are an Android user, you already have Google assistant in your pocket and don’t need a home speaker. There is an Amazon app where you can control your Alexa devices though a mobile device as well. The next step is to see what you’d like connected. Home doorbells, hue lights, and video monitoring are always a great start. Most of these devices are modular and often have a pretty low cost of entry. Remember it’s more about the data for these companies, so these products are usually <$200. Installation is often intuitive and it’s important to these companies and the consumer that these devices can be installed without a contractor or handy person. 

Nest Thermostat

What’s great too is when you’re ready to move, whether you rent or buy, these systems can come with you. Just remember to keep the old hardware.

We are starting to see built in wall/trim sensors and more built-in systems, but this tech geek Realtor would suggest perhaps avoiding those. Some of us remember those built-in intercoms that were all over 60s and 70s homes. It’s not that wall sensors won’t take off, it’s just way too early to embed such a virgin technology into a home. 

So go for it! With a low cost of entry and the fact that most of us already have assistants in our pockets, there’s really no harm to giving these a try, except perhaps to your privacy.

If you are interested in working with someone who understands what to look for in smart home technology for your future home, reach out, I love talking tech!

2020 PDX Real Estate Outlook from Inhabit’s Owner Eric Hagstette

Posted on by Eric Hagstette

Settle in as Eric Pulls Back the Curtain on 2020 Portland Real Estate

And just like that, it’s February 2020. If someone asked you when you were a kid what you thought 2020 would look like, did you picture this? I visualized space travel, robots, flying cars, lasers and futuristic stuff…not this everyday adulty life gig.

So where the heck did January go? To be honest, the reason my annual market outlook is so delayed is because this January was super busy for the Portland market. Now that I think about it, we were even selling houses right through the holidays as well. Portland may be experiencing growing pains, but the real estate market is alive and flourishing.

Last Year’s Prediction: Nailed it! 

A year ago, I was calling for our buyers and investor clients to get into the market. It was a year of opportunity for our buyer clients after many years of seller-favored, tight inventory conditions. For the first time in a long while, buyers enjoyed shopping the market without urgency & pressure, having more than one house to choose from, price drops, seller incentives, and contingent offers. How sweet it was! Instead of calling it a buyer’s market or a seller’s market, we called it a “broker’s market” as we could make both sides happy by creating win/win transactions for our clients. We could place our buyers in homes without real estate “whiplash” and our sellers were walking away from the closing table with a smile on their face excited to move on in the market. It was a unique time. Everyone was pretty happy. I hope that you or someone you know took advantage of it. 

2020 Current Conditions

The Portland market has always been nimble and this year is no exception. It changed quickly! Midway through  Q4 of 2019, Portland inventory started to dwindle down. Furthermore, most sellers don’t list during the winter and holiday months, so market inventory continued to fall. Despite the BRUTAL Portland weather this winter, the buyers came out of the holidays with a big appetite and gobbled up what was left on the market. The close in Portland neighborhoods currently sit at 1.3 months of housing inventory (in the 450k-700k range).  So the 2020 cycle begins with a fiery combination of low housing inventory, great interest rates, a seemingly healthy economy (with many new jobs coming to Portland) and a rapid erosion of affordability (this pushes buyers further from town to seek more affordable options). The market is behaving accordingly in response to high demand. Demand is being driven to Portland by a combination of reasons: jobs/economy, lifestyle, climate & natural resources, and an affordable option for many West Coast transplants. 

2020 Outlook

Welp….it’s an election year which has a tendency to slow the market. Buyers and sellers that aren’t being pushed into the market tend to sit tight through election times out of fear of the unknown. However, the upcoming election doesn’t seem to be having an impact on the market…yet.  Portland shows resilience when other markets slow. When things have slowed for us in the past, we bounce back quickly (including the recession). Thanks to our urban growth boundary and natural geographic barriers, we don’t have sprawl which has been a saving grace for our unique market. Portland offers jobs plus lifestyle and attracts a wide demographic spectrum of folks looking to call Portland home.  Pair this with a mild climate and abundant natural resources and you have a winner. Therefore, I predict 2020 will continue its low-inventory trend which favor sellers, drives prices and frustrates buyers. We have to be careful with the “drives prices” part though.  Affordability is a major concern. The chasm between the cost of Portland real estate and our median household income seems to be growing. Jobs are coming but wages haven’t caught up and the cost of living keeps climbing. This pushes buyers to outlier markets (Vancouver, Milwaukie, Beaverton, Oregon City, etc). For the urbanites that don’t want to pay for the high priced houses but want to stay in town, they’ll drive demand in the ‘attached’ market (townhouses/condos) which had a slow 2019. This will stabilize pricing in the attached market. Properly priced, well-presented, detached houses from the $200k to $1m range will continue to fly off the shelf. The $1m-$1.5m market is a ‘move up’ market for many wanting to upgrade from their existing home .  This market presents opportunities for buyers to make a great purchase; however, tapping their “trapped equity” from their existing home in order to make this purchase can present challenges (certainly not insurmountable but can be daunting to the client). In surprising fashion, Portland’s upper end market ($1.5m +) is moving at a pace you may find interesting (fast). Of course, these properties need to deliver the full package to fetch the price, but this market segment seems very confident in Portland as a place to make these big purchases. I find these big numbers surprising as I clearly remember how freaked out I was when I bought my first house in Mt. Tabor for $185k. However, like many other places, we are bursting at the seams. The numbers for incoming population growth are staggering which in real estate economics translates to demand. Portland is in high demand which has all but diminished the lower end of the market and made it feel normal to buy and sell very expensive real estate. 

Natural disaster or other non-natural market forces aside, Portland real estate has a very promising future and has always been well-insulated. With all this said, if our local government doesn’t figure out a way to better manage our addiction/mental health/homelessness crisis, Portland may lose its reputation as the “darling” of the Pacific Northwest and no matter how great this city is, many people will choose different markets to call home. Rainy weather is tolerable but corruption and greed are inexcusable especially with what it costs to live here. 

2020 Buzz Words & New Concepts 

iBuyer: Also known as institutional buyers or residential REIT (real estate investment trust): Have you heard the OpenDoor commercials on the radio? iBuyer or ‘instant offer’ is easily the biggest new disruptor in real estate and Inhabit is all over it. iBuyers have come into the market backed by billions of venture capital funds and are buying up real estate that fits in their “buy box”. Homeowners that qualify for an instant offer (and choose to take it), are typically taking a discounted price for the convenience and avoiding the traditional selling route.  As a student of change, I became very intrigued with iBuyer and became certified as an iRep Professional. Our philosophy with iBuyer is “pro-consumer choice”…what works best for our clients. iBuyers are real in today’s market and we want to share all of the options with our clients so they get the most out of their real estate assets. It works for some clients and we can show you how. 

Trapped equity: Many homeowners who have owned their real estate for 5 + years are sitting on a decent amount of equity that is trapped in their real estate. In a tight market, trapped equity can add challenges to a buyer that wants to move up or move down within the market. We’ve found that many people will simply opt out of moving around in the market simply because of the perceived risks and challenges with using the equity in your home to help achieve the daunting buy/sell or sell/buy. There are more layers, but we manage these all the time. In the end, our clients say that it’s worth the effort. 

Concierge real estate services: It is more important than ever for real estate professionals to be a trusted advisor not only throughout the sale, but on an ongoing basis after the sale. Realtors are on the front line of clients’ needs as a sale closes. Concierge real estate service continues after closing where Realtors continue to provide useful resources, information and advice on an ongoing basis. In today’s demanding and competitive market, we are reinforcing our value by continuing to support our clients on all things real estate. 

Final Words

Even though we’re not living in the Jetson-like society that I envisioned as a kid, 2020 is chock full of new and exciting stuff: self-parking, electric cars, virtual reality, and an impressive (and concerning) amount of technology & connectivity. At the push of a button, you can have almost anything you want delivered to your doorstep within hours.  Heck, you can push a button and order up a random Realtor to open up a house for you (but how dare you do that!). Real estate is no exception to the expectation of today’s “now society”. As professionals, our response time must be faster, our knowledge deeper and our ability to navigate this market must be sharp and focused. One thing that technology can’t change, is the human factor that is necessary to create happy buyers and happy sellers in real estate transactions. This is our wheelhouse. We embrace today’s disruptions & technology and use them as tools to enhance our clients’ position and experience; however, we feel more strongly than ever that real estate is a people business and we are here to stay. 

Thank you for your continued support and trust. Here’s to a prosperous 2020!

Eric