Elevate Your Home's Curb Appeal with These Exterior Paint Colors

Hey there, lovely readers!

It's incredible how a simple question about paint can spark so much interest. After sharing my favorite interior paint shades and seeing your enthusiastic response, I felt it was only right to dive into the world of exterior paints. With September on the horizon, it's the perfect time to consider giving your home's exterior a fresh coat. The cooling weather, the soft golden light, and those clear, dry days make it an ideal painting season.

Alabaster Sherwin Williams

The Classic White House Appeal:

There's something undeniably timeless about a white house. But let's take it up a notch, shall we? I'm head over heels for creamy whites. The same hue that offers a cozy ambiance indoors can look strikingly different outdoors. Under the vast sky and the play of natural sunlight, these creamy shades come alive, especially at night. They radiate a rich, luxurious vibe that's hard to resist.

Favorites in Creamy Whites:

• Alabaster by Sherwin Williams

• Shoji White by Sherwin Williams

• Greek Villa by Sherwin Williams

Complementary Choices:

• Trim: Natural Linen by Sherwin Williams

• Front Door: A timeless wood finish

Iron Ore Sherwin Williams

For Those Who Dare to Go Dark:

If you're looking to make a statement, darker shades might just be your calling. And let me tell you, I'm absolutely here for it!

Top Picks in Dark Shades:

• Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams

• Tricorn Black by Sherwin Williams

• Deep River by Benjamin Moore

• Rockport Gray by Benjamin Moore

Finishing Touches:

• Trim: I'm partial to wood accents, but a bold trim like Sherwin Williams' Black Magic can be a game-changer. It's all about what feels right for you!

In wrapping up, remember that the right paint can transform your home's exterior from ordinary to extraordinary. So, grab that paintbrush and let your creativity flow!

Portland Metro Real Estate: July 2023 Snapshot

Hey there!

Hope everyone is doing well. Let's take a moment to unpack the latest in the Portland Metro real estate scene for July 2023. Whether you're actively involved in the market or just like to stay informed, here's a concise update for you.

The Numbers Game

Comparing July to the previous month, June 2023, we observed:

• New Listings: A decline of 12.1%

• Pending Sales: A drop of 5.6%

• Closed Sales: A decrease of 8.3%

• Inventory: A slight uptick, reaching 2.4 months, up from 2.0 last month

• Total Market Time: No change consistently at 33 days

• Average Sale Price: A minor dip of 1.0%

• Median Sale Price: A reduction of 1.8%

Breaking It Down

The numbers suggest a subtle slowdown in the market from June to July. While listings and sales have seen a decrease, the consistent market time indicates that properties are still being snapped up at a comparable rate. Seasonality suggests that this trend will continue as we hit the fall and winter months.

Zooming Out

For a broader context, the year-over-year data is quite revealing:

• New Listings: There's been a significant 23.0% decrease from July 2022

• Closed Sales: These are down by 19.3% from the same month last year

• Average Sale Price: There's been a 3.5% decrease from 2022's average, settling at $599,300

• Median Sale Price: This has decreased by 3.2% from last year, now at $532,500

• Affordability: An interesting note, according to the National Association of REALTORS®, the Portland Metro area remains affordable for families earning the median income. With the median income at $114,434 in 2023, families can comfortably afford 84% of a monthly mortgage payment on a median-priced home.

These broader trends suggest that while the market has seen some cooling, it remains relatively stable, with affordability still in favor of potential buyers. We expect to see nominal price decreases typical of seasonal market trends and inventory levels to have a minimal increase until the Q1 of 2024.

In Conclusion

While these month-over-month shifts are noteworthy, it's always the bigger picture that offers deeper insights. If you're mulling over a real estate decision, now might be a good time to touch base with an expert to navigate these trends.

Reach out if you have any questions, we’re here to help!

Cheers,

Mark Reeves - Reeves Realty Group @ Exp Realty

Reference: Market Action Report - August 2023 - RMLS 

Our Favorite Summer Time Patio Spots in Portland, OR

Hey there, sunshine lovers! It's Mark and Courtney here. You know we love a good cocktail and a bit of sunshine. As Portland area natives, we've spent countless summers exploring the city's patio scene. We've got some all-time favorite spots that we keep coming back to, year after year. So grab your sunglasses, and lets dive into our top picks!
 

1). Prost! - Location: 4237 N. Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97217

Prost! has been our go-to spot for a taste of Germany right here in Portland. This place is all about authentic German beer, delicious food, and a patio that's buzzing with energy. And the coolest part? You can bring your food from nearby food carts. We've made so many memories here! Click here for more info.

2). Radio Room - Location: 1101 NE Alberta, Portland, OR 97211

Radio Room is another one of our favorites. This neighborhood gem has a diverse menu, a heart for the community, and a patio that's cozy all year round. Plus, their rooftop deck offers views that are to die for, especially during sunrise and sunset. Click here for more info.

3). Revolution Hall Roof Deck - Location: 1300 SE Stark St. Portland, OR 97214

Revolution Hall Roof Deck - We've spent many weekends at Revolution Hall, a unique spot in a historic high school. The rooftop deck offers incredible views, flowing craft beers, and top-notch pizza. It's like a summer hangout spot that's high above the city. Click here for more info.

4). Noble Rot - Location: 1111 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214

Noble Rot is a place we love for its unique concept. They grow their own veggies on the roof! We've enjoyed many fantastic dinners on their 4th-floor patio. The food, the wine, the view of Burnside - it's always a treat. Click here for more info.

5). Tope - Location: 15 NW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97209,

When we're in the mood for some tasty upscale Margs, we head to Tope. This rooftop restaurant at The Hoxton hotel serves up delicious tacos, ceviches, and crafted tequila and mezcal cocktails.And the view? It's a sweeping panorama of downtown and the river. Click here for more info.

6). Produce Row Cafe - Location: 204 SE Oak St, Portland, OR 97214

Last but not least, Produce Row Cafe is a spot we keep coming back to. If you're into comfort food and good music, you'll love this place. Their patio is covered and heated, perfect for any weather. And the food? Let's just say we're still dreaming about the meatloaf, mac and cheese, and that waffle sandwich dessert. Click here for more info.

So there you have it, friends! Those were our all-time favorite patio spots in Portland. Each place offers a unique experience and we're sure you'll enjoy them as much as we do. We're looking forward to more patio adventures as the summer heats up!

As always, thank you for joining us on this journey. We're so grateful for your trust and support. Enjoy the day, friends!

Curating an Outdoor Space for Lounging and Entertaining

Creating an inviting outdoor space is all about comfort, style, and a touch of nature. It's about creating a space that feels as cozy as your living room, while also embracing the beauty of the outdoors. Here are some of my favorite items to help you curate your perfect outdoor lounge and entertainment area.

The Foundation: Outdoor Rugs

An outdoor rug can instantly transform a patio or deck into a comfortable living area. It adds warmth, color, and helps define the space. Here are some of my top picks:

1. Jonathan Y Rug - This rug is not only beautiful but also easy to clean and maintain. Its traditional design can complement any outdoor decor.

2. nuLOOM Ranya Tribal Indoor/Outdoor Rug - This rug features a tribal design that adds a unique touch to any space. It's also suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

3. Nourison Courtyard Textured Geometric Silver Rug - This rug features a geometric design that's both modern and timeless. It's also easy to clean, making it perfect for outdoor use.

Remember, the bigger the rug, the cozier the space. And don't forget to power wash your rugs annually to keep them looking fresh and new!

The Warmth: Gas Fire Pits

A fire pit is a must-have for any outdoor lounge area. It provides warmth, light, and a focal point for gatherings. Gas fire pits are my favorite because they're easy to maintain and don't blow smoke or embers onto your furniture. Here are a couple of great options:

1. Aidan Outdoor 40000 BTU Fire Pit - This fire pit is not only functional but also stylish. Its concrete design adds a modern touch to any outdoor space.

2. Wellington Outdoor 50000 BTU Fire Pit - This fire pit offers a higher BTU output for those chilly nights. Its rectangular shape is perfect for gathering around with friends and family.

The Comfort: Outdoor Furniture

Your outdoor furniture should be as comfortable as your indoor furniture. I recommend a sectional with a chaise lounge or a combination of two chairs and a sofa. Don't forget to add end tables for convenience. Here are some furniture sets that I love:

1.Laguna Beach 4pc Patio Conversation Set - This set includes a sofa, two armchairs, and a coffee table. It's made of high-quality eucalyptus wood and is perfect for lounging and entertaining.

2.Brava 5pc Acacia Wood Sectional Sofa & Club Chair Set - This set includes a sectional sofa and two club chairs. It's made of acacia wood and comes with comfortable cushions.

3.Segovia Light Brown Eucalyptus Outdoor Couch - This outdoor couch is made of eucalyptus wood and features a light brown finish. It's perfect for lounging and can comfortably seat three people.

The Shade: Patio Umbrellas

Patio umbrellas are not only practical for providing shade but also add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space. They can be styled with your table or used to shade your seating area. Here are my favorite umbrella and cover:

1.Wood Tilting 9 Ft Patio Umbrella Frame and Pole - This umbrella features a wood frame and pole, adding a natural touch to your outdoor space. It's also tiltable, allowing you to adjust the shade as needed.

2. Black and White Stripe 9 Ft Replacement Umbrella Canopy - This canopy features a classic black and white stripe design that can match any decor. It's also easy to replace, allowing you to refresh your umbrella whenever you want.

The Finishing Touches: Decor

To complete your outdoor lounge area, add some decor like large lanterns, greenery, and string lights. Here are some of my favorite decor items:

1. Grand Patio Floor Solar Light - This solar light is not only eco-friendly but also adds a warm glow to your outdoor space. It's perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere at night.

2. Safavieh Ruane 17.5" Iron Lantern - This lantern adds a touch of rustic charm to your outdoor space. It's made of iron and can be used with either real or LED candles.

3. Outdoor Simple Stripe Pillows - These pillows add comfort and style to your outdoor furniture. They feature a simple stripe design that's perfect for any decor.

4. Boutique window String Outdoor Commercial Lights - These string lights create a magical atmosphere at night. They're perfect for hanging in your space for great lighting.

5. Ferrgoal Artificial Outdoor Plants - These artificial plants add a touch of greenery to your outdoor space without the need for maintenance.

6. Hanamono Artificial Paradise Tropical Seagrass - This artificial seagrass adds a tropical touch to your outdoor space. It's perfect for creating a beachy vibe.

With these items, you can create an outdoor space that's not only comfortable and stylish but also perfect for lounging and entertaining. Enjoy those summer nights!

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I hope you find this blog post helpful. Let me know if you need any further assistance!

Infusing Everyday Elegance: Simple Design Tips for a Cozier Home

Creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere at home doesn't require a massive renovation or a sizable budget. With the right approach and a sprinkle of creative flair, small design elements can truly transform your living space. This article shares some practical and affordable design tips that will elevate your home's aesthetic and help you achieve that warm and snug ambiance.

Curtain Couture: Your Window Dressing Matters

Let's start with your window treatments. These are often overlooked, but in reality, they can significantly impact the overall ambiance of your home. The trick is in the details.

Remember this simple rule: your curtains should either just touch the floor or have a bit of extra fabric gracefully pooling on the ground. This tip helps to give a sense of effortlessness and luxury. When it comes to hanging your curtain rod, keep it a few inches below the ceiling for an elevated, sophisticated look.

On the other hand, avoid leaving a gap between your curtain's hem and the floor. It may make your curtains look ill-fitted and disrupt the room's harmony. Similarly, hanging your rod right above the window can make the window and the room look smaller.

Coffee Table Vignettes: Group, Stack, and Display

The coffee table is more than just a functional piece of furniture. It's a blank canvas that you can dress up with personal flair. Consider styling in groups - stack a few hardcover books, arrange a vase with fresh flowers, or add a unique decorative piece like a bronze figurine or a pair of candlesticks. These arrangements add a sense of depth, texture, and interest to your space.

Mirror Magic: Amplify Light and Space

Mirrors can serve as design wizards in your home decor journey. When a room feels too dark or even too bright, strategically placing a mirror can help balance the light, creating a light-filled, airy atmosphere.

Opt for a mirror with a slim frame for a sleek, unobtrusive look. Currently, arched mirrors are garnering quite the attention, and for a good reason. They're chic and can effortlessly become the room's focal point.

In bathrooms, consider replacing a large mirror with two smaller ones side by side. This change gives the space a more intriguing and aesthetically appealing appearance. To elevate it further, install sconces between and on either side of the mirrors. This setup not only fills the wall space but also introduces soothing lighting to your bathroom.

Subtle Illumination: Choosing the Right Wall Lighting

The right wall lighting, like sconces, can make a hallway or living room feel more intimate and welcoming. An essential yet straightforward lighting tip is to ensure that all your light bulbs are the same and preferably, emit a soft white glow. This choice veers away from the harshness of LED blue light and provides your home with a calm, cozy, and inviting ambiance.

In the grand scheme of home design, it's the small details that often make the most significant difference. These tips will help you bring everyday elegance into your home, making it a haven of comfort and style that is uniquely yours. So go ahead and infuse your home with these simple yet classy design elements, because a cozy home is a joy to live in.

Cheers,

Courtney

From Swiss Coffee to Greige: Unveiling My Top Paint Color Picks for 2023

Hello, my fellow color enthusiasts! It's time to dive into the warmth and comfort of 2023's hottest paint colors.🎨 I'm sure you're wondering, "What are your personal go-to paint colors?" I completely understand - choosing colors is like setting the tone for your personal symphony, each room playing a note that creates a harmonious ambiance. So, while we can't forget those timeless classics that we all adore, I'm thrilled to introduce you to some fresh and exciting newcomers to my personal favorites list this year. Get ready, we're about to embark on an exhilarating color journey together!

Our first stop is a color that's as comforting and familiar as your morning coffee - Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore. This creamy concoction has earned a place in my heart for its ability to blend into any home style and floor type. Whether your home is a modern marvel or a charming vintage retreat, Swiss Coffee is there to wrap your space in warmth, much like a comforting hug from an old friend.

Up next, we have Decorator's White, another treasure from the vast Benjamin Moore palette. It's a pure, pristine white, untainted by undertones and filled with endless possibilities. To me, it's like a vast snowfield, a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch. Whether you're dreaming of a minimalist sanctuary or a space filled with bold, vibrant colors, Decorator's White is a reliable companion on your color journey.

No palette of mine would be complete without Alabaster by Sherwin Williams. This classic hue holds a special place in my color-loving heart for its balance of simplicity and elegance. It's perfect for any project, whether you're refreshing the interior or giving the exterior a new lease of life. Imagine this sophisticated shade adding a touch of grace to your walls or a dash of charm to your home's exterior. Timeless? Absolutely. Bland? Not a chance!

For those of you who share my love for the 'Greige' trend, I have a delightful trio from Benjamin Moore - Pale Oak, Revere Pewter, and Natural Cream. These colors are a beautiful blend of the calming cool of grey and the welcoming warmth of beige. They work like a charm on interior walls or cabinetry. And, for that perfect finishing touch, try adding some brass hardware. It's a color match made in heaven!

Natural Cream By Benjamin Moore

But let's add a twist, shall we? What if we drench the walls and trim in a creamy white, and then add a dash of greige to the doors? Consider using Alabaster for the walls and trim, with Pale Oak lending a chic touch to your interior doors. It's a modern spin on the monochrome trend that offers a softer contrast than the stark black and white themes we've seen before. Doesn't that sound exciting?

So, there you have it, my dear friends - my top paint color picks for 2023 that I can't wait to try in my own home! Whether you're planning a complete makeover or a simple room refresh, I hope these colors inspire you to create a space that truly reflects your personality. So, why not grab that paintbrush and paint your world (or at least your home) in these fabulous hues? Here's to a 2023 filled with color and creativity, and to us creating our dream spaces together! 🥂

- Courtney

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If you're considering selling your Lake Oswego property, trust in our expertise and commitment to providing exceptional service. With our complimentary staging, attention to detail, and comprehensive marketing strategies, we'll ensure your home shines and achieves the best possible result in the competitive world of Lake Oswego real estate. Contact us today to start your own success story!

A Lake Oswego Real Estate Success Story: How Complimentary Staging Made Dellwood Drive Shine

Lake Oswego Real Estate Success Story: How Complimentary Staging Made Dellwood Drive Shine

Introduction

Every so often, a listing comes along that showcases the true power of complimentary professional staging, and the recent sale of a gorgeous home on Dellwood Drive in Lake Oswego is a prime example. As your trusted Lake Oswego listing agents, we're thrilled to share this fun and entertaining case study that highlights how our comprehensive approach to marketing, including complimentary staging, helped secure an incredible result for our sellers. So, let's dive into the details of this outstanding success story!

The Dellwood Drive Dream: A Lake Oswego Real Estate Gem

Dellwood Drive, a stunning property in the heart of Lake Oswego, captured the imagination of buyers with its elegant design, immaculate presentation, and enviable location. After only four days on the market, the home received four offers and ultimately sold for $1,150,000 – an impressive $200,000 over the asking price, with waived inspections.

The Secret to Success: Complimentary Professional Staging

As experienced Lake Oswego listing agents, we understand the value of making a property stand out in a competitive market. Our comprehensive marketing strategy for Dellwood Drive included complimentary professional staging, which transformed the home into a warm and inviting space that showcased its full potential.

From carefully selecting the right furniture and decor to accentuating the home's best features, our staging team created a captivating environment that left a lasting impression on potential buyers. This attention to detail and commitment to excellence played a crucial role in generating multiple offers and securing an exceptional sale price for our sellers.

A Winning Formula: Comprehensive Marketing and Flawless Presentation

But our approach didn't stop with complimentary staging. We also invested in a pre-inspection, ensuring that any potential issues were addressed before the property hit the market. Our professional cleaning crew then meticulously prepared the home, making sure it was in pristine condition for showings and open houses.

To further enhance the home's appeal, we enlisted the talented photographers at @ruummedia to capture its beauty and charm. The stunning images, along with our strategic marketing efforts, helped draw attention to this exceptional Lake Oswego real estate opportunity.

Finally, we added a touch of luxury to the open houses by serving champagne to visitors, creating an inviting atmosphere that made them feel right at home. The neighbors' warm and friendly demeanor only reinforced the sense that this was a truly special property.

Congratulations to Our Sellers!

The incredible outcome on Dellwood Drive is a testament to the power of complimentary professional staging and our dedication as Lake Oswego listing agents. We're delighted to have played a part in this success story and want to extend our heartfelt congratulations to our sellers.

If you're considering selling your Lake Oswego property, trust in our expertise and commitment to providing exceptional service. With our complimentary staging, attention to detail, and comprehensive marketing strategies, we'll ensure your home shines and achieves the best possible result in the competitive world of Lake Oswego real estate. Contact us today to start your own success story!

Perfect Presentation - Staging Tips and Tricks for Luxury Real Estate

Transforming a house into a warm and inviting home is an art form, especially when it comes to luxury real estate.In this post, we'll share some expert tips and insights into the world of staging, to help you create a captivating story that will leave buyers and agents saying, "Wow, they have great taste!"

Setting the Stage for Luxury Living

The key to standing out in this competitive real estate market lies in the details, and that's where staging comes in. Let's take a look at some tried-and-tested staging tips to make any home feel cozy, sophisticated, and welcoming.

Tip #1: Furniture Placement for a Cozy Ambiance

When arranging furniture, avoid simply pushing it against the walls. Instead, bring pieces closer together to create an intimate atmosphere. If you must place a large piece of furniture against a wall, leave about 6 inches of space to maintain a sense of depth and balance.

Tip #2: Add Plants and Throw Blankets for a Touch of Comfort

Incorporate faux (or real, if you have a green thumb) plants and a basket of throw blankets to add warmth and texture to the space. These accents help make a room feel more inviting and can easily be switched out for different seasons or styles.

Tip #3: Odd Numbers and Height Variance for Visual Interest

When arranging decorative items, stick to odd numbers like groups of three or five. This creates visual interest and balance in the space. Combine objects of varying heights for a more dynamic look, giving the impression that an interior designer carefully curated the room just for you.

Tip #4: Layer Rugs for Depth and Style

Adding a rug can make a significant difference in any room, even those with carpet. Rugs help anchor furniture and prevent it from looking like it's floating. For added texture and visual appeal, consider layering rugs. Start with a large jute rug as a base, and then top it with a patterned rug for added interest and style.

And there you have it! By incorporating these tips into your home decor, you'll create a home that not only looks stunning but feels warm, inviting, and lived-in. Remember that the ultimate goal is to craft a story that will resonate with potential buyers, allowing them to imagine what their life could be like in your beautiful home.

Happy staging!