By Tracey Henkels, September 30, 2022
If you want to increase your home value in a big way, renovating your backyard is a great way to do so. During the pandemic I decided to add structure, an extensive garden, bioswales, and a fire pit to my backyard. I consulted with my incredible landscape desiger, Kristien with Fusion Landscape Design, and she helped me design the outdoor living space of my dreams.
I envisioned a space for intimate dinner parties, summer block parties, and monthly neighborhood hangouts in a serene setting. The landscapers “scraped the lot” – removed everything that was there down to the bolts and added a firepit, foliage, and garden beds. The only thing we saved was a vintage rhubarb plant, which we transplanted and remains in my yard to this day. A good friend of mine did all the metalwork and the custom planter beds. I grow tomatoes, figs, eggplants, and more. Every summer I have more than enough veggies for regular salads.
Outdoor living spaces add a ton of value to your home and is worth the investment. Being able to spend our glorious Portland summers out back in a place you designed can greatly contribute to quality of life and create great resale value.
Tracey Henkels
Principal Broker | Earth Advantage | OR
She/Her
Tracey grew up rooted in the rhythms of her family’s Iowa apple orchard, where rising with the sun instilled a deep work ethic and a grounded, thoughtful approach to life. That Midwestern foundation shapes the values that Tracey brings to her clients: compassionate guidance, perseverance and a commitment to making a difference for the people she serves.
With a degree in Architecture from Iowa State University and six years of experience in the architecture field, Tracey has a keen eye for design and a deep understanding of how homes are built—literally and metaphorically. In 2004, she transitioned into real estate, combining her technical expertise with a passion for helping people find a sense of sanctuary and belonging.
Tracey is known for her integrity, patience, and optimism, making her a trusted advisor and advocate for our clients. She thrives on helping people navigate important transitions, whether buying their first home, selling a cherished property or finding the perfect place to put down long-term roots.
Tracey is deeply connected to her community and is passionate about making a meaningful impact beyond real estate. She’s been a resident of the Hosford-Abernethy neighborhood in SE Portland since 2002; you’ll often find her in her garden nurturing vegetables and flowers, hosting neighbors and friends, exploring Oregon’s great outdoors, or planning her next travel adventure. Through every step of her clients’ journeys, Tracey embodies the grounded guidance and thoughtful care that define Rooted Realty.
Tracey works as a team, alongside Kelsey Burkett, Broker Licensed in OR. You can read more about them on their website: Rooted Realty.- T: 503-715-6140
- traceyhenkels@gmail.com
