By Living Room Realty, October 16, 2020
Congratulations to my lovely clients Lynda and Morris — it’s closing day, you made it, you did it! Here’s to you and your happiness in your new home — I am so excited for you!
As most folks know by now, real estate in the time of Covid is anything but slow or on hold. Today with ridiculously low inventory (1.1 months in September!) and historically low interest rates, the competition is high when it comes to buying in the Portland area. What has also been an unexpected change is how quickly and broadly this sellers market has spread into the outer suburban areas. 
When I first connected with Lynda and Morris in June, they were still back on the East Coast and had just put their house on the market in preparation to head West. They were already thinking maybe Gresham or Tigard would be a sweet spot to land as these areas felt familiar like their current neighborhood.
For the first few months, we began searching for them remotely, looking for homes and neighborhoods that were a little off the beaten path, not too hilly and homes that felt open, updated and spacious. Late in August, Lynda and Morris arrived and we began our in person searches, often traveling between Beaverton, Tigard, Milwaukie, Gresham and Troutdale all in one day! They were serious troopers, as the location was somewhat variable, but the house needed to have certain features.
In those first few weeks, they found a sweet home in Troutdale that checked all the boxes but ended up getting beaten out by higher competing offers. The second home that won their hearts was in Tigard — a beautiful Summer Lake property that was attracting A LOT of attention. After one day of showings they had multiple cash offers at $50k over which was hard to compete with. This particular home ended up closing at $101,000 OVER asking!
But we pressed on, continuing the search, took a break during the smoke and fires, and eventually landed once again in Troutdale at this fabulous property. This home is so unique and offers many options for them. The tri-level configuration felt like home in New Jersey, but with a ground level family room and complete ADU to convert into a spacious home office.
Lynda and Morris are accomplished photographers and a huge must have was office space where they could work, edit and frame photos. They also wanted a home to entertain and host guests (once covid has passed) as well as an outdoor natural space to enjoy.
Their new home sits on close to a quarter acre and has a beautiful new covered patio — this will be perfect for our Pacific Northwest Fall and Winter. Additionally there is a sweet covered balcony on the upper level with gorgeous views of Mt. Hood. Dreamy!
When writing their offer, I was able to communicate easily with the Listing Agent (also the seller!) and come in strong on price and terms. Their offer was accepted that night and now, less than 1 month later, they are HOME!
Lynda and Morris have been so delightful to work with and I have dearly enjoyed getting to know these fabulous humans over the last few months. Wishing you all many years of happiness, joy and celebration in your new Oregon home. Congratulations!!
