Categories for News
Getting an appraisal — a report that states the actual market value of a property — is among the first steps to refinancing your home or preparing to put it on the market. An appraiser will analyze not just your home, but those around it, as well as the location and features of the neighborhood: proximity to restaurants, shops, grocery stores, highways, parks, schools and other important amenities. Changes to the appraisal system For buyers and sellers, scheduling appraisals recently... Read More
In a hot housing market like the Portland-Vancouver area, buyers have a lot of choices and they move quickly. To get their attention — and the most money out of their homes — the smartest thing a seller can do is listen to their Realtor. An agent’s guidance is key to netting a great sale price and shaving crucial days off the time a listing spends on the market. “I’m looking at that house in the eyes of the buyer,”... Read More
This impressive 2,300-square-foot Vancouver home is situated in the coveted community of Steamboat Landing along the Columbia River in Washington. Its unique features include low-maintenance landscaping, vaulted ceilings, custom finishes and an abundance of natural light. This property offers homeowners the opportunity to embrace an upscale waterfront lifestyle in a stunning natural setting. Greeted by a stately gated courtyard, visitors will enter the main floor’s open concept living space and immediately take in the spectacular river vista. Lofty ceilings and... Read More
Thinking about buying a home that’s part of a homeowners’ association (HOA)? Before submitting your offer, It’s crucial to read through the community’s covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs), which govern the appearance of homes in your new neighborhood or building. CC&Rs are generally well-intended rules, but they may interfere with future plans, upgrades or major purchases you’ve planned for your new home. Strict enough CC&Rs could lead you to reconsider your purchase altogether. Understanding how your association functions and the... Read More
Incredible coastal luxury awaits in Neahkahnie, Oregon, near Manzanita. Meticulously researched, planned and constructed, this handsome 4,000-square-foot estate is exquisitely nestled among old-growth forest and perched just above the beach. Sweeping ocean and mountain views keep nature at the forefront, but this home comes with all the premium finishes and features homeowners expect from Oregon’s high-end housing market. Slate and Australian cypress flooring, custom alder cabinetry, slab granite counters, skylights and a wired-in sound system give this getaway a magnificent,... Read More
Envision riverfront luxury living in the serene community of Tidewater Cove in Vancouver, Washington. This three-bedroom, 2,900-square-foot condo is the picture of sophistication, featuring tray ceilings with crown molding, custom windows and Hunter Douglas window treatments, marble and travertine tile flooring, premium wool carpeting and unique lighting. Built-in Panasonic televisions, sound systems, central vacuum, a gas fireplace and high-end appliances give the home every modern convenience. The real draw, though, is the spectacular view of the Columbia River. Homeowners can... Read More
Home inspections are an important step for potential buyers, but they are just as critical for sellers. By having their homes checked out before listing, sellers can avoid surprises, save time and net a higher sale price. Home inspectors evaluate electrical systems, gas lines, plumbing, basements and crawl spaces, siding, the roof and more. Some of their biggest red flags? Moisture, leaks, radon and mold. Knowing about problems before their house goes on the market, sellers can fix them or... Read More
Reverse mortgages are an effective way for Baby Boomer and senior homeowners to access equity they’ve built on their homes without selling. These federally funded loans eliminate mortgage payments, though homeowners are still responsible for property taxes and insurance. They free up cash for home improvement, other debts, medical needs and everyday expenses. They make sense for homeowners who plan to “age in place” and stay in their homes long-term. Reverse mortgages are repaid when the borrower’s home is sold... Read More
Prepare. Find an incredible Realtor. A reliable real estate agent is the key to a successful move. Ask around for referrals, and be sure to check out their websites, listing photos and marketing materials. Stopping by open houses in your area is another low-pressure way to meet a variety of agents and collect information. Terrie Cox, RE/MAX’s top real estate broker in Oregon and Washington, helps her clients navigate their lengthy pre-sale to-do lists. With her guidance, your listing will... Read More
Congratulations! You landed that great job … in another city. Relocation doesn’t have to be stressful, but there are a lot of moving parts. When you partner with a skilled Realtor like world-ranked RE/MAX broker Terrie Cox to manage the details, everything falls into place. Follow these steps to a smooth relocation: 1. Choose an ally. Terrie Cox can streamline your move to Oregon or Washington. As a lifelong Pacific Northwest resident — as well as RE/MAX’s top broker in... Read More
