By Living Room Realty, July 18, 2022
Matt was referred to us through his good friend and our wonderful client, Julia. We connected via zoom as he was in the early process of selling his condo out of state and was dreaming of moving to Portland. We talked about the game plan and the execution plan to make that a reality. To be competitive, Matt wanted to wait until he had officially sold his condo before putting in any offers. We agreed with him that this would be a wise decision.
After he sold his condo, he let us know that he was ready to hit the ground running. Matt went to several open houses to get a good feel for the different neighborhoods and continued to keep us in the loop about the types of properties he could envision himself in. Originally, we were only looking at turn key condos, and eventually, that home search criteria evolved as the market began to shift and the opportunities to envision himself in something different began to bloom.
Soon, the right home came up that was more than Matt thought he would be able to get in the current market due to competition cooling and home prices stabilizing. The possibilities opened up.
And the rest is history!
We had the opportunity to ask Matt a few questions to get perspective from his journey to other buyers out there that may need some encouragement. This is what he said:
Why was buying this home important to you?
Ownership is important because I like the stability of my payments not changing unless I choose to make them change. The long term financial stability is very important to me. Also, if I wanted the ability to customize the space for myself I don’t have to get someone else’s permission for that decision. More artistic freedom along with financial freedom.
My parents set a good example for us growing up in the value of home ownership. I bought my first home when I was 26. And this 2nd home at 34 years old.
What changed from looking at condos to ending up with a detached home?
I started out looking at condos but ended up with a detached home that met the criteria I needed. This ended up happening because I went to a couple of open houses one weekend and didn’t think the detached homes were in my price range or that I could compete with other buyers at this price point. After I went to this one home I felt really good energy from it. The benefit of this home was that it was a low-maintenance house. I didn’t have to spend a ton of money to renovate something dilapidated. I also liked that it was a smaller home because it works for my lifestyle to not have to take care of a larger home. Feels more manageable. On top of that, between Jason talking with the listing agent, and finding the motivation of the seller it felt like it was worth a try and the rest is history.
What advice would you give a buyer on the fence about buying right now?
My advice would be it’s not as daunting as you think when you work with the right people. Give yourself time, but when it’s right, it’s right. It’s not easy to buy anything right now or has it been for a while, but it’s a great investment in your life if you can find the courage to try to go for it.
What was the hardest thing about this journey?
Readjusting to a new market that I was unfamiliar with. I was moving from out of state. So, I had to rely on the knowledge of Jason and the rest of the team to help me navigate new waters.
On a personal level, it was making a massive move so far from my community and what I have known as my home for the past 10 years.
Why Portland & Why The Move?
I’ve always been able to come up to and visit. I love the neighborhood feel, proximity to mountains, good food, lush trees, and weather. Other people may not like the weather but I love it, especially because of the winter months.
It was a feeling that it was time to move on. Time for a new adventure. And all things lining up the way they should support that.
What was the most fulfilling part for you?
I was able to do this on my own. There is such good energy and a good feeling when you go somewhere and experience something and then it becomes yours. This experience felt enriching and positive.
What has been your experience working with Jason and the rest of Current Dwelling Group?
It was very smooth. It was very communicative. Stress-free. Everyone read my mind and I never had to ask too many questions because you all anticipated what I needed to know before I asked. It was very stress-free for as complicated as home buying can be. You all made it easy. My friend who referred me to you all said, “Until you experience it, you’ll never quite know.”
Anything else you would want a reader to know?
Don’t stress the decision and don’t be in a rush. But when you need to make that decision don’t hesitate. Let the process take the time it needs.
We are so excited about your new adventure Matt! Cheers to you and your new home sweet home!
