Posted on

Portland Is for Pets

Portland: It’s raining. Also, we have cats and dogs.

In fact, Oregon is one of the few states in the nation with more cat owners than dog owners, but Portland proper belongs to the hounds.

We’re tied for first in the country with the most dog parks per capita (slipping a bit from 2012, when Portland led that category “fur and away”) and our dog ownership rate is 38.8%.

But dog parks and catios are only part of what makes a city statistically welcoming to our canine and feline family members. WalletHub recently performed this ridiculously in-depth study on the nation’s most pet friendly cities… and Portland is ranked all the way down in 26th place! This, despite receiving very high marks in both the “Pet Health & Wellness” and “Outdoor Pet-Friendliness” categories. That part at least makes sense, as we’ve got posh day spas for both pups and kitties.

Turns out, regardless of its many pet amenities (or perhaps because of them), Portland is one of the most expensive places to own a domestic creature. Portlanders typically love to spoil their fur babies with premium, natural foods and accessories. Additionally, our veterinary care costs are among the highest in the country. So it’s a great place to be a pet and a vet!

As any pet owner will affirm, looking for a new home involves consideration for the happiness of any animal family members. The next time you’re thinking of entering the housing market, I’d be thrilled to incorporate your pet plans into your overall strategy!

Posted on

Leaky basement? Adapting to this rainy year.

Wow what a winter we’ve had. 

If you haven’t had water in your basement or crawl space before, this may have been the year that you did. In fact, if you have a crawl space instead of a basement and you haven’t looked in it lately, it would be a good idea to check it during or after the next heavy rain and see if it is dry. 

I’ve gathered some resources for you for moisture issues and I may post more of them in upcoming newsletters, but feel free to email me if you need the whole list sooner rather than later. I am not an expert in these areas; most of what I have learned is gleaned from listening to hundreds of home inspections over the years. I like to learn something new at every home inspection. 

First the basics. Keep your gutters clean and your downspouts unclogged. Go outside in a heavy rain and look at how they are flowing. Are the gutters overflowing? All the water should be flowing down the downspouts without backing up or spilling over. This can mean cleaning your gutters and downspouts more than once or twice a year. If your downspouts are disconnected from the storm sewer, the water should be directed away from house, first touching the ground at least 4 to 6 feet away from the house or going into a “drywell” in the ground or other storm management system.

www.theconservationfoundation.org rain garden design

Some people use rain gardens or beautifully arranged pebbles to guide the water away from the house. 

If your downspouts are still connected to the storm sewer, and you suspect they are backing up or broken, you might try checking out Grumpy’s Drains. One of their specialties is clearing rain drains, the drains that go from your downspouts to the street or storm sewer. 

Another drainage company my clients have gotten help from in the past is Ability Plus Drainage (Greg Brimhall). They, like many drainage contractors, get very busy at times like these and can be challenging to reach and schedule with.  But keep trying. This company is very knowledgeable and can sometimes design creative solutions that are more affordable than a complete waterproofing job, including french drains and other methods.

If keeping stormwater away from your house doesn’t do the job, many contractors will recommend a sump pump. These have a variety of features, and sometimes more than one is needed, so do the research before having one put in. Other steps may include sealing the foundation from the exterior, which usually involves digging down to get access to the foundation. 

Keeping water out of your basement or crawl space is an important step in preventing mold in your home and resolved basement moisture problem is a plus for resale. Check with me for a list of contractors for this or other projects. I’d be happy to help. 

Posted on

Portland’s New Home Energy Scores

New Portland Energy Score Policy 


This won’t take effect for a year and it will probably be a good thing in the long run. It affects sellers and buyers. A seller will need to pay for a report about the home’s “energy score”  before putting their home on the market. The report will allow buyers to get an objective look at how efficient a home is before they even go look at it.

It may be a little bumpy in the beginning like any new policy but it will be interesting to see how it all turns out! In the long run it will probably encourage sellers to do more energy retrofitting before they list their home. 

 

Posted on

The Cost of Waiting

 

You’ve heard that “time is money” and it actually applies to our current real estate market. If you’re considering buying someday soon, there’s a definite cost to waiting.

For most people, the true cost of purchasing a home boils down to the property’s purchase price and the interest rate you can secure for your loan. This past year both those factors have been on the rise:

Rates have been rising since the 2016 election.

That might not sound like it would have a significant impact, but let’s take a look at an example of a $250,000 home with a 1% increase in interest rates. Those increases are likely to result in an extra $188.50 in your monthly payment, according to one of the mortgage pro’s we work with. That’s $2,262 a year and a total of $67,860 extra over the life of a 30-year loan. This is, by no means, reason to panic. But it’s absolutely something to consider if you’re thinking of buying in the near future. Looking for a $500,000 home? Double those numbers. (Of course the impact will vary depending on the percentage you put down).

What’s important here? If you’re not ready, don’t let these factors sway you. But if you’re on the fence, it might be wise to consider hopping into the market.

Are you thinking about a move? I’d love to answer any questions you have and help you formulate the best strategy for getting you into your ideal home!

Posted on

The Value of Working with an Agent

Popular internet-based real estate marketplaces like Zillow, Trulia, and Craigslist have made searching for your dream home a whole lot easier on your own. However, every home is unique (just like these kittens!). There are several important things to remember about why having a real estate professional on your side can make the process much better! Here are just a few ways your M Agent beats the internet:

    •  

    • Internet-based real estate marketplaces often give an estimate of a listing based on market prices of homes around the area. While these estimates and pricing calculators have gotten better over the years, especially at identifying trends in an area, nothing beats an agent’s local knowledge and resources in seeking out homes that are within your budget. If you are selling, online services don’t reflect what is really special about your home that makes it stand out from the competition. They can’t take that into consideration when pricing.

 

    • Your agent’s experience and knowledge can help you put your best foot forward at the negotiation table. You want someone on your side with access to the best facts and figures without undermining either the buyer or seller. While you may have some idea about how the market is playing out, a real estate professional will likely know just a bit more than you. Agents at M also have the benefit of working at a brokerage where there are forums for other agents to offer their support and expertise.

 

    • Your agent is there to understand your needs and your desires — the internet can’t really do that for you. By putting you first, and gaining your trust, your agent will be able to help you achieve your real estate goals, be it finding your first home or selling your third!

 

    • Not all homes for sale have an online presence — some homes exist just under the radar. Typically, agents will let each other know of new pocket listings that might be of interest, or share exclusive listings before they even hit the market. (See for yourself and check out my sneak peeks!) This is valuable information, especially in this current market.

 

    • When you’re working with an agent, especially an M Realty Agent, you know that they have your best interests in mind. The internet may let you quickly search for that house you drove past, but your agent can show you a house that you may have not considered, but is perfect for you.

 

There are many other things your M Agent can do for you — shuffling through mountains of paperwork is just one of them. If you’d like to learn more about what I can do for you, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Posted on

Design at Your Fingertips

Thinking about redecorating your home? Try out these fantastic free apps to help jump-start the process. If you’d like a more personal approach, get in touch with me. I can put you in contact with some fantastic designers!

AutoDesk HomeStyler, free on iOS and Android
Decorating a space can be quite the task, but AutoDesk HomeStyler aims to make it just a bit easier. You can upload an image of an empty room and virtually reconfigure the space with furniture from stores like Wayfair, Pier 1, IKEA, and Target. It also links each piece you’ve chosen to its website, making the purchase a lot simpler.

Houzz, free on iOS and Android
If you’re into gorgeous furniture, and want to be up-to-date with the season’s newest design trends, Houzz is right up your alley. Like AutoDesk HomeStyler, you can shop within the app, but what sets it apart is the community aspect. Join the discussion board if you have a question about a DIY project, or answer questions about gardens if you’re well-versed in perennial conversations.

Project Color, free on iOS and Android
Project Color can help you get rid of your color wheel with every color available at the Home Depot’s paint center right at your fingertips. The app allows users to take a picture of a room, and paint it whatever color they choose. It’s smart enough to paint around existing items in the room like picture frames, bookshelves, or your TV.

Posted on

Home Style Guide

When shopping for a new home, the industry lingo can be a bit daunting. Knowing your home styles will make your hunt easier, and just might turn you onto a layout you didn’t know existed. This guide provides an overview of the most common home styles found in the greater Portland area. Each style boasts many features and nuances, with the broad strokes outlined in the following guide. With this as your starting point, you’ll be equipped to swiftly narrow your search to find the perfect fit. Let me know your favorites and I’d be happy to go into greater detail with you!

Bungalow homes are renowned for their economy and charm. They often feature an open floor plan, with the majority of the space in the living room. Instead of fewer, large bedrooms, bungalows favor numerous smaller bedrooms. The majority were built between 1900 and 1950, and sit at one or one and a half stories tall.

A mid-century modern home features open living spaces, a good view of yards and patios, exposed beams, and high-tech kitchens. These homes were constructed mostly from 1940 to 1975. The design came from a focus on modern lifestyle, resulting in a clean simplicity.

Ranch homes ascended to the height of their popularity in the 1940s to the 1970s, often the choice of the booming middle class during the post-war period. In profile, a ranch home is close to the ground, long, and uses a minimum of decoration on the interior or exterior. Most often, they are single-story with an open, simple floor plan.

A daylight ranch mixes things up, featuring many of the same characteristics as a ranch home. However, it also boasts a daylight basement. That simply means that the basement mirrors the floor plan of the main level, while having windows that allow in daylight. Daylight basements often offer doors to yards or patios.

Portland Foursquare homes claim a boxy, square design. They typically stand two and a half stories tall with four square, large rooms to a floor, framed on the top and bottom by a center dormer and front porch with stairs. The unique shape of foursquare homes allows them an amazing amount of interior space – an important goal for city lots.

Different styles of homes fall under the term “traditional.” Colonial homes, along with certain Cape Cod or Victorian homes can all be considered traditional. Instead of a set type of home, traditional homes are defined by their characteristics. Straight lines, lots of medium or large windows, and two story height all distinguish traditional homes.

Contemporary homes strive to defy definition. They often feature geometric shapes, plenty of asymmetrical designs, and large windows. The shape of the home itself can incorporate outdoor space, with shapes like L, U, or T being common. A large amount of contemporary homes employ eco-friendly materials and green, energy-conserving design.

Craftsman homes incorporate natural materials like wood, stone, brick, glass, and tile to create a comfortable, timeless home. They often boast gabled roofs, exposed beams, overhanging eaves, substantial porches, and stone chimneys. Interiors feature earthy and wood tones, wood trim with natural finishes, and many windows to allow plenty of natural light.

The townhouse brings another classic option to the table. Common in cities, townhouses are vertically oriented, narrow, and tall, often three stories. Townhouses are independent and often individually owned, while being adjacent to other townhouses, forming a row.

Posted on

River Rd — 986 SE River Forest Rd

$345,000 — 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths — 1066 SF

Hidden gem in River Forest paradise. Mid-century-modern! Serene view of River Forest Lake across the road. Easy 1-level living. Stunning hardwoods, vaulted ceiling, skylights, 2 baths. Updated kitchen w eco-friendly paperstone counters. Lovely yard w trees & sun. Established natural gardens, 3-room deck & fire pit. Wonderful community near Trolley Trail bikeway, Oak Grove village cafes, and new MAX.

Listed by: Laurie Sonnenfeld @ M Realty LLC

SOLD — 5 Days on Market

The River Forest neighborhood is a peaceful natural watershed paradise. Residents make up a lively and interactive community including a fine assortment of artists and musicians. Look forward to the series of neighborhood art shows, a 4th of July parade and the Valentine’s Day stroll. Several homes have been awarded certification for sustainable landscaping or backyard wildlife habitat.

River Forest Lake and the Willamette River are in close proximity, while a variety of shops and cafes in Oak Grove Village provide a place to bump into your neighbors while having coffee, lunch, or browsing for treasures. The nearby Trolley Trail bikeway and the upcoming 2015 MAX Light Rail stop offer a variety of commuter options. The Trolley Trail bikeway is a 6 mile trail from downtown Milwaukie to Gladstone. Its north end is close to the Springwater Corridor, a convenient way to bike downtown.

At night the quiet stillness underscores the occasional sounds of wildlife. The level of darkness makes the stars pop out, encouraging sky watching and peaceful sleep.  You’ll feel like you are miles outside of civilization, even though you are only a short drive from downtown Portland.

The Residence: This 1965 mid-century modern home is nestled in the River Forest neighborhood of Oak Grove. An enticing view of River Forest Lake across the road can be enjoyed from the dining room and the cozy front porch. The lovely south-facing backyard features an established natural garden, a tool shed with water and electric, and a three-room deck and firepit–a serene retreat excellent for relaxing and entertaining.

Enter the threshold into the bright and airy living room. Stunning hardwoods are illuminated by skylights and a sliding glass door to a secret courtyard retreat, open only to you, the sun and the sky.

High, vaulted ceilings open up the space and carry into the dining area. The beautifully updated kitchen boasts eco-friendly paperstone counters, stainless steel appliances, a sizable pantry and a counter depth fridge. A master suite with bath, along with second and third bedrooms and bath are tucked away down the hall for privacy.

Posted on

Brentwood / Mt Scott Park

$468,000 — 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths — 1420 SF

Bright and open 1-level home. Tucked away on a pleasant street near Woodstock shops and cafes and close to Brentwood Park and Mt. Scott Park/Pool/Community Center. Great-room style floor plan with abundant light from the slider to deck and big front window! Inviting deck for 3 season use and covered outdoor dining. Spacious primary bedroom with double closets has ensuite bath with a new walk-in shower. Have fun with the converted garage, to become your combination home gym, yoga space, media room, band room, crafts area or something else. Or add a window or two and make it your art studio. New furnace and Central Air in 2024. Excellent energy score of “8” indicates very reasonable utility costs. (See link to Home Energy Score report.) Freshly painted inside and out. Raised bed for your kitchen garden in the sunny front yard and room for more. Flag lot setting (behind another home) gives you a feeling of seclusion from the street and cars. (Buyer to verify all details.) Don’t miss this one!

Listed by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

Virtual Tour: https://www.cribflyer.com/7443se63rd

 

Posted on

Buckman – Grand Old Original Duplex

(PENDING) $795,000 — 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths — 4507 SF

Grand craftsman foursquare duplex in wonderful close-in historic Buckman neighborhood, between Hawthorne and Belmont. Spacious rooms and abundant natural light. Leaded and stained glass, pocket doors, dentil moldings, bay windows, balcony/sleeping porch, wood floors, and tall ceilings. Back yard & patio secluded from street. This vintage treasure is ready for your TLC. Many of the big items have already been done & price reflects current condition. Each kitchen has a wonderful butler’s pantry. 2nd level has stairs to approx 475 sq ft in 3rd floor attic with high ceilings, newer windows, and skylights with solar powered shades. Perfect owner occupied duplex for one or two households, sweetly located in the heart of Hawthorne and Belmont fun. Add an interior doorway to go between the upper and lower, or keep as two. 93 walk score & 99 bike score! Basement includes a bonus or band room and sauna! Detached double garage. PEX plumbing. 2025 updates: new roof, sewer, and decommissioned oil tanks.

Listed by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

Virtual Tour: https://www.cribflyer.com/1403-1407sesalmon

 

Posted on

Milwaukie – Backs to Creek and Greenspace

(SOLD) $728,975 — 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths — 2674 SF

Don’t miss this breathtaking view! Peaceful & secluded close-in retreat, just 5 minutes from blossoming Historic Downtown Milwaukie light rail, food carts, cafes, farmer’s market & riverfront Milwaukie Bay Park. Stunning mid-century contemporary character: hickory wood floors, fireplace, open beams, great room with 16 foot vaulted ceilings. Many updates including windows, 3 year new roof, & more. Mostly original 70’s retro downstairs (like the huge party room!) yours to enjoy or modernize. Over a 1/4 acre and Mt. Scott Creek below! Oak Street shopping with natural foods, hardware, and ice cream shop very close! Ideal home for entertaining. House concerts, anyone? Gardener’s paradise with lush gardens – gorgeous mature plants, grassy level expanses, wildland meadow flowers on the way down to the creek, and wildlife-friendly habitat. Very spacious primary bedroom with large walk-in closet and bath. Kitchen and great room open to treetop deck. Enjoy endless pantry storage in the sunny kitchen with view. Big party room, dance floor, or creative space opens to backyard. Full sized garage with storage loft. This is a one-owner, all-electric home. Ducted heat pump for cooling and heating, with electric furnace backup. Off Lake Rd in a secluded and winding culdesac with easy commutes. Four spacious bedrooms (one nonconforming-no closet) and 2.25 baths. Guest half bath and the primary bedroom en suite bath are connected with extra sink. Wood stove will be removed prior to closing per DEQ rules. Across the creek you’ll find North Clackamas Park ballfields, 2 dog parks, picnic areas, and lots of classes and resources for all ages at the wonderful community center. The photos are beautiful, but they don’t do it justice. See it in person

Listed by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

Virtual Tour: https://www.cribflyer.com/4815secasadelrey

 

Posted on

2122 NW Everett

(SOLD) $875,000 — 4 Bedrooms, 3.1 Baths — 4768 SF

Discover a rare opportunity to own an exquisite Victorian, blending classic elegance with modern comforts. The property features a spacious owner’s unit that exudes charm and character.

Architectural Splendor: This home showcases beautiful Victorian architecture. Large bay windows fill the space with natural light. Impeccable historic charm with tasteful updates. Warm and welcoming living and dining area with cozy Vermont Castings gas fireplace. 3 bedrooms include one large, one small (with skylights!), and 2 more rooms that can serve as bedroom, family room, or office/study. Walk in closet. Treetop upper deck off the spacious kitchen is a bird lover’s paradise & boasts sunrise, city, and distant mountain views.

Versatile Configuration: Easily convert to single family home. Or take advantage of the 2 income-generating apartments, or space for guests, home office or possible ADU. The larger one bedroom unit has bay windows, a gas fireplace and original pocket doors. The studio unit has a sleeping loft, living area, kitchen and bath. Both have access to the back yard. Each has a vintage clawfoot tub. Tall basement with home gym has endless potential.  High efficiency (Seer 19) heat pumps provide heating and cooling.

Historic Alphabet District/Nob Hill: Located in a coveted area known for its rich history, and steps away from the fun of cafes and Nob Hill shopping on NW 23rd & NW 21st Avenue. Streetcar about 7 blocks away.

The gated backyard with established plantings is large for the area. There may be a possibility of adding a parking space in front. Units are rented substantially below market. Convert this home back to single family use or benefit from a lucrative potential rental income while living a vibrant urban lifestyle in the heart of amazing NW Portland.

[Home Energy Score = 2. HES Report at https://us.greenbuildingregistry.com/green-homes/OR10236843]

 

UNIT 1 – First Floor Front
1 Bedroom, 1 Bath, 644 SF.   Air Conditioning, Fireplace, Dishwasher, Wood Floors, Shared Yard

UNIT 2 – First Floor Back
Studio, 1 Bath, 417 SF.  Air Conditioning, Dishwasher, Wood Floors, Deck, Shared Yard

UNIT 3 – Upper 2 Floors
3 Bedrooms, 1.1 Baths, 1956 SF.  Air Conditioning, Fireplace, Dishwasher, Wood Floors, Deck

 

Listed by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

Virtual Tour:   https://cribflyer.com/2122nweverett

 

Posted on

Foster Powell – Bungalow Cottage + Detached Studio

$445,000 — 1 Bedrooms, 1 Bath — 588 SF

Sunny 1923 bungalow cottage plus adorable detached creative space/art studio with skylights. Spacious fenced yard with trees & sun. Just off Foster near food carts, shops & cafes. Beautiful wood floors, original trim and vintage details. Charming & practical floor plan makes amazing use of the square footage in main house with everything you need: a cozy bedroom, a cute bath with retro fixtures, a roomy kitchen with eating area, a living room, a dining area, a utility room with laundry, and two front porches! Wall treatment in living room created by artist Evan B. Harris. The Mt. Scott Community Center, Park, and Pool is just 3.5 blocks away. Back yard is perfect for gatherings and features corrugated tall garden containers, a large storage shed and there’s even a sheltered grilling station. The driveway has parking for 5 cars, 2 of them covered. Zoning is “CE” according to “Portland Maps” which may allow retail and office. All electric home. Energy score = 6! Buyer to verify all info. Don’t miss this gem.

Listed by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

Virtual Tour:  cribflyer.com/5254se74th

Interactive Walk Through::  3D Home Tour

 

Posted on

Sellwood – 1125 SE Linn

(SOLD) $585,000 –2 Bedrooms, 2 Bath — 1350 SF (PENDING)

Sellwood Beauty! Spacious 2 bed/2bath with great bonus room in finished attic. Near the River and all the shops, grocery stores, and inviting cafes that Sellwood offers. Light and bright Victorian farmhouse successfully blends the new and old. Open beam, skylights, gorgeous wood floors, tall ceilings. Big sunny kitchen opens to secluded outdoor retreat perfect for summer dinners and gatherings. Main floor: two large bedrooms with extra closets. Two stylishly updated baths. Upstairs: finished attic bonus room with shorter ceiling height and southern outlook. Oversized deck with built-in benches and grape arbor. Adorable garden shed with french doors could make a nice 3-season art studio or office. East of the house plant your veggies and herbs in the sunny raised garden beds. Out front the established trees, shrubs, and raspberries are about to wake up! High demand schools: Duniway, Sellwood Middle and Cleveland. Quiet, bike-friendly street just a few blocks from the Springwater Corridor, with access to the Trolley Trail and Eastbank bike paths. Double paned windows. Updated electric service & panel, new water main. New furnace and central air in 2024. Don’t miss this one!

Listed by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

Virtual Tour: https://www.cribflyer.com/1125selinn

 

Posted on

West Tabor – 2134 SE 57th

(SOLD) 4 Bedrooms / 2 Bath / 2670 SF

You don’t want to miss this quintessential craftsman farmhouse located in one of Mt. Tabor’s most sought after pockets! Gorgeous architectural details blend seamlessly with modern updates across two turn-key floors. The formal spaces boast Victorian-era ceilings complimented by expansive windows, while gorgeous oak hardwoods, designer colors and original millwork highlight the finish palette. The main level floor plan is anchored by an updated kitchen which opens perfectly to the dining room and elegantly delineates the formal spaces from the main floor bedrooms and bathroom. The design of this home is hard to find as it offers single and multi-generational living opportunities or the possibility of renting out the second floor. Its unique layout provides separate access methods to each floor in addition to having a second floor kitchenette bookended by two gorgeous bedrooms and second bathroom. Beyond the 1700+ square feet that make up the main and second floors is a basement which is home to more than 500 square feet, ideal for storage and tackling hobbies. The main dwelling is complimented by a stunning outbuilding studio with vaulted ceilings, high end windows and doors in addition to a magazine-quality covered patio, perfect for entertaining across multiple seasons. With exterior amenities such as the broad shouldered front porch, covered patio and backyard deck, this property’s oversized lot gives way to an incredible, deep backyard perfect for countless activities! Inside and out, this amazing century home stands prominently today just blocks to Mt. Tabor park, Division and Hawthorne shops, Atkinson Elementary and Franklin High school! A “Biker’s Paradise” and a “Very Walkable” address – Walkscore.com

Listed by: Windermere

Sold by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

 

Posted on

Oak Grove / Fairoaks – 1456 SE Anspach St

(SOLD) $529,000 — 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath — 968 SF

Hidden treasure in wonderful Fairoaks neighborhood near the Willamette River. OPEN Sat & Sun 2-4 pm. Outstanding mid-Century one-level on nearly a quarter acre in beautiful natural setting. Character, charm. and abundant light. Hardwood floors, fireplace. Updated kitchen and bath. Newer roof, gutters, and windows (most are triple paned). Updates to plumbing, electrical, furnace, water heater, hardware, fixtures, doors, millwork and paint. Living room opens to big patio for all your summer entertaining, with serene views of the forest behind this property. Large fenced yard with sun and shade and room to garden, with attractive established landscaping. You will love the spaces and calm this home brings.

Enjoy the woodsy “undiscovered” Fairoaks area, near MAX, Trolley Trail bike & walking path, cafes, River Forest Lake, the river, Oak Grove boat ramp, several parks, and only 15 to 20 minute drive to central Portland. Friendly feel with a lively arts and music community. Neighborhood events include annual Fairoaks block party, Oak Grove Festival, Milwaukie Porchfest, art sales, and frequent local music at Awakening coffee and brew pub in historic downtown Oak Grove. Excellent bird watching area. 10 minutes to just opened Milwaukie New Seasons. Natural Grocers & Trader Joe’s are an short drive further. Lot size and square footages are approximate. Buyer to verify all data and measurements. Seller is licensed Oregon Broker.

Listed by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

Virtual Tour: https://cribflyer.com/1456seanspach

 

Posted on

Oak Grove – 2430 SE Park

(SOLD) $569,000 — 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths — 2437 SF

A Historic Gem — Original Stone House in Milwaukie / Oak Grove

Lovely 4-bedroom 2 bath craftsman bungalow with English country accents. Filled with charm and character.  One of the treasured original Oak Grove / Milwaukie area stone houses, built by English architect Charles B. Martin.  The home is listed on the local Clackamas County Historic register.  Only the second owner, this family has preserved the home’s original character for 60 years…enjoy envisioning your own updates in keeping with its heritage.

Beautiful built-in hutch and bookcase, vintage trim and original hardware. Hardwood floors, wood-burning fireplace. Two bedrooms on main, and two bedrooms up with good ceiling height. Full bathrooms on both floors.  Sweet bonus area upstairs with south light -art studio, office, library or?

Lush greenery and secluded setting on sunny, approx 10,000 square foot lot with room to garden.    Corner lot with driveway and detached garage in back on the side street.

Detached double garage/shop with storage and workbench, may have potential to be converted to second living area or ADU. New high efficiency furnace and central air.

Near MAX light rail station, Elk Rock Island, and the Trolley Trail (6 mile bike/pedestrian path). Close by: Downtown Milwaukie shops and cafes, New Seasons (just opened!), and Historic Downtown Oak Grove, Awakening Coffee, and more. Highly rated North Clackamas schools. 

Buyer to verify all details.

Listed by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

Virtual Tour: https://www.cribflyer.com/2430separk

 

Posted on

Belmont / Hawthorne Sunny Victorian Farmhouse

SOLD – $525,000 — 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath — 1906 SF

Charming, sunny 1907 farmhouse with Victorian style original character & details! Off street parking & nice yard. Classic front porch. Formal entry. bay windows, tall ceilings, beautiful fir floors. Pocket door opens from south facing front parlor to big, bright dining room. Fall in love & take your time planning your ideal future updates.  Nestled in a row of vintage homes. Bask in the sense of community and the funky charm of the beloved Belmont and nearby Hawthorne neighborhoods, with oodles of unique cafes and shops. Nearby: Sunnyside Environmental School, parks, library, and much more. Walk score 96. Bike score 100!  Big country kitchen opens to sunny back yard with neighborly feel. Raised bed garden. Basement with outside entrance could be flexible space for music, crafts, or home office. Newer windows on west side & kitchen eating area. New sewer. Have kitties? Protect and enjoy your felines in the deluxe & spacious “catio”, with room for humans, where the cats can teach you napping and bird watching skills.

Home Energy Score = 7.   Full report at https://rpt.greenbuildingregistry.com/hes/OR10226314.pdf

Virtual Tour:  https://cribflyer.com/3605seBelmont

Listed by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

 

Posted on

Farmhouse on Large Lot near Johnson Creek / Milwaukie

(SOLD) $495,000 — 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths — 1404 SF

Charming farmhouse-style home on a generous 0.3-acre lot, offering a blend of character and modern updates. Beautiful hardwood floors grace the main level. The updated kitchen features stainless steel appliances and elegant quartz countertops. The adjacent dining area has a convenient door leading to the backyard, perfect for al fresco dining and entertaining. The main level has a primary bedroom with a private bathroom, providing a quiet retreat. An additional bedroom and a full bath on this level ensure comfort and convenience. The main floor laundry room is complete with a handy pantry area and a convenient door to the backyard, making it an ideal mudroom for all seasons.

Upstairs, you’ll find two spacious bedrooms, both with walk-in closets. Outside is a large detached garage, a spacious carport, and room for RV parking. A tool shed adds even more storage convenience. The backyard has a fenced-in yard, raised garden beds,  and a charming grape arbor. Mature shade trees provide a peaceful atmosphere, and a covered deck offers a perfect spot to relax and unwind. Located in a fantastic neighborhood, this home is close to parks, schools, and shopping, making it an ideal place to call home.

Listed by: Keller Williams PDX Central

Sold by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

 

Posted on

Early Portland Fixer with Great Potential in Oak Grove

(SOLD) — $495,000 — 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths — 2100 SF

Well cared for home on quiet low traffic street in great close in location, new furnace, water heater and A/C, oversized kitchen with breakfast nook, hardwoods under carpets, several built ins, at lot, plenty of parking, full unfinished basement, endless possibilities

Listed by: Real Estate Performance Group

Sold by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

 

Posted on

Secluded Ranch in Fairoaks / Oak Grove

(SOLD) $520,000 — 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath — 1000 SF

Wow, this home has it all! One level all remodeled and move in ready. So many details and character to look at. You will love the spaces and calm this home brings. Large lot with established landscaping, patio for all your summer entertaining. Backyard is fenced and has lovely gardens and back

Listed by: John L Scott

Sold by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

 

Posted on

Modern Beach Cottage in Manzanita

(SOLD) $819,000 — 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths — 1303 SF

 Exceptional Manzanita on the Oregon Coast! Turnkey, furnished. Move right in. Ideal setting a few blocks from the expansive beach, & the perfect distance from the heart of town. One-of-a kind contemporary craftsman design filled with light.  Spacious, open feel. Great room with stunning warmth & character. Bamboo floors, gas replace, fun & unique details. Cobalt Blue Viking range & hood, movable island with power, honed granite, pantry, high-end appliances.

Dramatic 2-story main-floor primary bedroom with floor to ceiling windows. Unwind in the clawfoot soaking tub or the walk-in shower in main floor bath. 2 treetop bedrooms & bath up. Triple paned windows. Lovely secluded front patio with re table. The sparkling hot tub awaits in the fenced back area. Explore the charms of Manzanita village cafes 4 blocks over. Short term rental possibilities. Seller is licensed Oregon real estate broker.

Listed by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty

Posted on

Updated Midcentury Ranch Off San Rafael

(SOLD) $468,000 — 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths — 1008 SF

Come check out this smokin’ deal! Move-in ready 3 bed, 2 bath with thoughtful mid-century touches, plenty of storage space and room to entertain both indoors and out! Featuring lovely hardwood floors throughout, and central air for the hot Portland summers. The large kitchen flows into a darling dining space and living room, or outdoors to a spacious covered patio. The converted garage is ready for your big ideas and projects with a new roof, insulation, and new garage door. A large private fenced yard and RV parking complete this incredible package! Convenient access to freeways, airport, shopping and schools. Don’t miss it!

Listed by: Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International

Sold by: Laurie Sonnenfeld Realty