Tag: Curb Appeal

Sell Faster and for More: The Strategic Advantages of Home Staging

Posted on by Will Sing

Embarking on the journey of selling your home presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. In the bustling real estate market of Portland, standing out in a sea of listings is crucial to not just selling, but selling well. A strategic tool in your arsenal? Staging. Let’s unpack the art of staging, its pros and cons, and how you can leverage it to benefit your sale. You can checkout the video below as well!

What Is Staging?

Staging is more than just tidying up; it’s a deliberate process designed to showcase your home’s best features. It involves strategically arranging furniture, decor, and accessories to appeal to potential buyers. Whether you hire professionals or tackle it yourself, the goal is universal: to make your home irresistible.

Why Consider Staging?

  • Quick Sale: Staged homes often sell faster. By presenting a polished, ready-to-move-in environment, you reduce the time your property lingers on the market, allowing you to move forward with your plans sooner.
  • Higher Offers: A well-staged home can spark bidding wars. When buyers are emotionally invested, they’re willing to pay a premium. This competitive edge can significantly increase your home’s selling price, making staging a worthwhile investment.

The Drawbacks:

  • Cost: Professional staging isn’t cheap, especially if you’re filling a vacant property. Prices can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per month, depending on the extent of staging needed.
  • Inconvenience: If you’re residing in the home during the sale, staging can disrupt your daily life, requiring constant upkeep to maintain the staged look for showings and open houses.

Virtual Staging: A Cost-Effective Alternative

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, virtual staging is worth considering. This technique digitally inserts furniture and decor into your property’s photos. While less impactful than physical staging, it offers a glimpse into the potential of your space at a fraction of the cost.

Determining Staging Costs

The investment in staging varies widely based on your home’s size and the number of rooms you decide to stage. Discussing with your real estate agent will help tailor a strategy that maximizes return without unnecessary expenditure. Sometimes, focusing on key areas like the kitchen and primary bedroom offers the best value.

To Stage or Not to Stage?

Deciding whether to stage your home is a personal choice, influenced by budget, timing, and market conditions. Gathering as much information and advice as possible will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals.

Your Thoughts on Staging

I’d love to hear from you. What are your perspectives on staging? Have you experienced the benefits first-hand, or do you have reservations? Share your thoughts below.

Staging can dramatically transform the selling experience, potentially leading to a quicker sale and higher selling price. As with any strategy, it comes with its pros and cons. By evaluating your unique situation and consulting with your real estate agent, you can determine if staging is your ticket to a successful sale.

Thank you for tuning in, and remember, whether you decide to stage your home or not, I’m here to support you every step of the way in your selling journey. If you’re pondering your next move in the Portland real estate market, feel free to reach out. Let’s make your home sale a success together.

Stay Connected: For more insights and tips on navigating the Portland real estate market, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow me on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

Looking for a Personalized Real Estate Strategy? Schedule your strategy session today at stan.store/thewilliamsing, and let’s get started on achieving your real estate goals.

Home & Garden Show – Not Your Gramma’s Event

Posted on by Gabrielle Enfield

Hi Readers!

Wanted to share that Working Magic Group will be with our partners at the Design District at this weekend’s Home & Garden Show! Sure, there will be some old school flavors and displays, but we are bringing all sorts of COLOR (and flavor!) to our showcase, highlighting the makers and shops of the Central Eastside. Find inspiration from shops like CARGO and City Liquidators (y’all… have you been recently? Mind blown.), artists like Kate Blairstone, color talks and curb appeal brainstorming, and enjoy yummy treats from Salt & Straw and Straightaway Cocktails. Which, btw, just launched a new beverage in partnership with W+K’s Portland is What We Make It campaign. Prettttty sure you’ll get a taste of it, there.

EXTRA BONUS! We’re giving away four sets of tickets to enter the expo! Weather is supposed to be meh, so come dream big and say hi! Also, we’ll be giving away a prize pack you won’t want to miss. Find the details on @workingmagicgroup

Let’s hear it for the dreamers!

See you there,

Gab

Three Winter Blooming Plants for your Cut Flower Garden

Posted on by Lydia Hallay

For cut flower enthusiasts, winter-blooming plants can provide year-round interest and are beautiful as cut flowers to fill your vase on the dullest of days. These three native plants not only thrive in our Pacific Northwest climate, they’re great to bring indoors. Let’s explore these winter blooming wonders that will add beauty and vitality to your yard – and look great in a vessel.

  1. Hellebores (Helleborus spp.):
    • Variety Selection: Choose from various Hellebore species, such as Helleborus orientalis or Helleborus niger, for a diverse color palette including shades of pink, purple, and white.
    • Planting Tips: Plant Hellebores in well-draining soil with partial shade. These hardy perennials are known for their tolerance to winter conditions and can bloom even in late winter.
    • Blooming Season: Hellebores start flowering in late winter and continue into early spring, making them the perfect choice for adding elegance to your garden during the colder months.
    • Cutting Tips: To prevent them from drooping in the vase, make a tiny vertical cut on the stem before submerging in water.
  1. Witch Hazel (Hamamelis spp.):
    • Blooming Season: Witch Hazel is deciduous shrub known for its medicinal properties and unique, spidery flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring. Varieties like Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Arnold Promise’ or ‘Diane’ showcase vibrant yellow to red blooms.
    • Planting Tips: Plant Witch Hazel in well-draining soil with partial to full sunlight. This deciduous shrub provides excellent winter interest with its fragrant flowers.
    • Cutting Tips: Harvest just before their buds start to open for maximum vase life. Smash the ends of branches with a hammer or mallet before dropping in the vase to increase water intake.
  1. Camellia (Camellia spp.):
    • Blooming Season: Camellias are prized for their elegant, rose-like flowers that bloom in winter. Varieties such as Camellia japonica and Camellia sasanqua offer a range of colors and sizes.
    • Planting Tips: Plant Camellias in acidic, well-draining soil with filtered sunlight. These evergreen shrubs provide a burst of color during the cooler months.
    • Cutting Tips: Before arranging, cut the stems at an angle by holding them under water. You can also smash the bottom of the stem to remove the outer layer and tear up some tissue.

By incorporating these winter-blooming plants into your Portland (USDA Hardiness Zone 8b) garden, you’ll have flowers to cut and enjoy in your house year round. From Hellebore to Witch Hazel and Camellia, these plants not only thrive in our climate, they also contribute to the ecological richness of your garden. Enjoy year-round interest with these winter wonders that celebrate the natural splendor of the Pacific Northwest. Happy gardening!

Just Listed! Gimme the Beat…

Posted on by Bonnie Roseman

4016 NE Senate Street

Portland, Oregon, 97232

Laurelhurst Boho Beaut! Perched above it all with plenty of curb appeal, this old gal is celebrating her upcoming 110th birthday with pride. Graced with a roomy front porch, sizable front and back yards and an excellent floor plan – this one is full of possibilities. Greet your pals in the entry and enjoy entertaining in the open living room with a fireplace with stone hearth, large dining room with a built-in and a bright kitchen that opens to your own urban woodsy wonderland with dappled sunshine. Upstairs you’ll find three generous bedrooms with new carpet and a full bathroom all flanking an airy hallway. Head down to the unfinished rock star basement for fun, games and a jam session. The high ceilings invite you to create your fantasy space. Easy access to historic Laurelhurst Park, the Hollywood neighborhood, Kerns Restaurant Row, MAX, the freeway, airport and a nearby bus stop. Featuring coveted schools! Claim your spot in Laurelhurst!

OFFERED AT  $599,000

3 BEDROOM | 1.5 BATH | 2,424 SQFT

MLS# 22035169 | TAXES: $5,475.90

Trees for Shade: Plan now to plant this Fall

Posted on by Lydia Hallay

They say the best time to plant a tree is 10 years ago; the second best time? This-coming fall.

As average summer temperatures continue to rise in the Pacific Northwest, the importance trees and other plants play in cooling our urban landscape cannot be overstated- particularly in areas of the city that do not already benefit from established tree canopies.

Every five years since 2000, the city of Portland has counted the number of trees in the city. The most recent count (2020) found that, for the first time since data collection has begun, the number of trees in our city has declined by nearly 800 acres. That’s a decline approximately equal to the number of trees in Mt. Tabor Park.

The largest area of loss during that five year period was in residential areas, particularly in East Portland neighborhoods that already suffer from a lack of shade. While city code requires a permit for removing street trees (and private property trees beyond a certain size), and replacement of any trees that are taken down, the data indicates that many people are choosing not to replace the trees they remove.

So what difference do trees make for the livability of our neighborhoods- both now and in the future? During the 2021 “heat dome,” scientists from Portland State University (PSU) measured average temperatures in different parts of the city to determine the impact shade trees had in mitigating heat. In the relatively  unprotected East Portland neighborhood of Lents, for example (where my partner and I live), the temperature was clocked at 125 degrees; conversely, shady Northwest Portland stayed a relatively cool 99 degrees.

While this information might prompt some to seek out neighborhoods with established canopies already- it’s important to remember that, with some planning and just a few years time, we can greatly improve tree canopies in neighborhoods that currently lack them- and that benefits all of us.

When my partner and I first moved into our Lents home just six years ago, the yard was a barren hellscape of torn up grass and weeds. We’ve since planted more than 15 trees on/around the property- some large, some small- and over 150 species of flowering plants. In just a few years time, our yard feels like a completely different place. While there are many intangible benefits we enjoy as a result of these plantings, one thing is certain: our home and yard stay much cooler during the summer than they used to.

Summer isn’t a good time to plant a tree- but it’s an excellent time to decide where to plant a tree. West and southern-facing areas of your home will often benefit greatly from a deciduous tree that lets sunlight (and warmth) through in winter, but leafs out to provide shade (and cools the air) during the hottest time of year.

While fall is the best time to plant a tree, it’s not always the best time to research options- especially if you’re shopping for a deciduous variety that drops its leaves. The best time to start your search is often in summer, when you’ve got a chance to evaluate your site during the harshest time of year- and you can see for yourself how dense the shade of a particular tree will be over time.

The city of Portland’s Department of Urban Forestry is a wonderful resource for researching trees for your space, as are local nurseries like Cistus, which specializes in species that are well adapted to our changing climate.

Do you have areas of your back or front yard that remain unused during July-September because they’re just too sunny and hot for large parts of the day? Planting tree nearby can provide dappled protection that, in just a short amount of time, can bring an unused space to life. If you’re thinking of listing your home for sale, consider adding trees to the landscape as part of your preparation strategy. Trees add curb appeal, ambiance, and value to properties that lack them.

Want to nerd out on trees? Looking to add a tree that will improve the curb appeal of your home and provide much needed shade to our urban canopy? Give me a holler! I love putting my landscape design background to use for clients.

5 Ways to Enhance Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Posted on by Sharon Bloudek

I live in an eclectic urban Portland neighborhood. The homes are a good mix of early 20th century—Tudors, bungalows, farmhouses—mid-century modern, 70s and 80s ranches and split-levels, and even a sprinkling of new builds. I love the variety. While some architectural styles appeal to me more than others, a walk around my neighborhood always reveals one thing: no matter the era of the home, the homes that stand out are the ones with curb appeal. Their owners put effort into making the exterior of the home look appealing (this always make me want to know what the inside of the home looks like, too!). While sprucing up your home to increase curb appeal is crucially important if you’re getting ready to sell, it’s also a great way to show the home you’re living in some love. After all, it’s a great feeling to drive down your block and admire the house you’re arriving home to. (And your curious, ambling neighbors appreciate the effort, too!) Read on for easy ways to enhance your home’s curb appeal:

  • Clean up your act! The good news is, elbow grease is the only thing required to make the exterior of your home sparkle. Start from the top and give your roof some attention. Clear the roof of debris. (Be sure to use proper safety precautions when on the roof of your home!) Clear debris out of the gutters, and give the exterior of the gutters a good scrub. Use a power washer to clean siding, the front porch, the driveway, the walkway, and any sidewalks in front of your home. Drag out the ladder and clean the windows; you can even give your screens a good rinse with the garden house. You’ll be amazed at the difference a good cleaning will make.
  • Perk up your paint. While a full-house paint job will undoubtedly boost curb appeal, such a project might not be within everyone’s budget. A gallon or two of paint can still go a long way, though! Choose a cheerful color and put a fresh coat of paint on your front door. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even paint the trim on the street-facing side of your home, or renovate your fence with the help of Tampa Fence Builders. 
  • Go for the green. It’s time to bust out the lawnmower, edging tool, rake, and garden shears! Dedicate a weekend—or several evenings over a week or two—to your front yard. First things first: pull some weeds! Shape hedges, shrubs, and trees. Mow and edge the grass. If you already have established trees and plants throughout your yard, there is still opportunity to bring in new color and flower varieties with hanging baskets and planters.
  • Don’t forget the finishing touches. You’ve worked so hard—but don’t halt your efforts just yet! Go the extra mile with a few finishing touches. Cruise the aisles of your local hardware store for inspiration: a new porch light fixture, new house numbers, or a new mailbox—any or all of these have the power to dramatically change the look of your home. Softer elements, like a wreath for the front door or a new door mat, make your home feel welcoming to inhabitants and visitors alike. A rocking chair on the porch could be the perfect place to enjoy a morning cup of coffee—or to wave at me as I walk by, admiring your beautiful home!
  • Admire your work. This is the most important step! They don’t call it curb appeal for nothing! Stand in the street (watch for cars!), admire your home, and congratulate yourself for your hard work!

While there’s a lot of satisfaction in a DIY job, there’s also something to be said for hiring professionals who can do the job quickly so you can enjoy the result! I’m always happy to make recommendations for roof maintenance, tree and lawn care, window cleaning, house painting, and more. 

Shop Talk Vol. 3: Is Landscaping Worth the Investment?

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

The concept of curb appeal has exploded over the last decade, with hit renovation and real estate shows drawing more attention to a home’s exterior charm. But is ponying up the cash for professional landscaping services really worth the cost?

 

An investigation by The Washington Post revealed the complexities of pinpointing a specific percentage or dollar amount sellers can expect to yield from their investment. Some sources cited a minimum return on investment beginning at 150%, while others declare an approximate increase in home value ranging from 5% – 20%. Though the figures may be up for debate, the consensus is clear: landscaping is worth the investment, as it is likely to increase perceived home value.  To ensure the greatest return on your landscaping efforts, be sure to take these factors into consideration:

 

Define your budget

Setting your budget will help establish the scope of your project. One of the great benefits of landscaping projects is that they can be effective with limited cost, especially if you’re willing to put in hard labor. Individuals on a limited budget should focus on the front of the house and designated yard areas, clearing unkempt areas and bringing in aspects of color by way of flowering annuals and striking perennials. More extensive project budgets can be used to hire professional landscaping services to create your ideal yard space.

 

Keep it tasteful

While investing in the exterior of your home will enhance marketability, strategy is key if you want to yield impressive returns. Sellers should be sure that their landscaping blueprints are in line with current trends. Similarly, owners should be aware that less is not always more in the case of landscape design. Landscaping that is viewed as too high-maintenance may actually be a turn-off to many potential buyers. Ask Aryne + Dulcinea for their assistance in selecting a landscaping professional, so you can ensure your future yard is in alignment with your home’s architectural style and modern design practices.

 

Think long-term

When it comes to landscaping, sustainability is a huge selling point. In addition to reducing your carbon footprint, creating an outdoor space that is self-maintained reduces the extent of labor and cost for your home’s future owners.

 

Investing in your home’s exterior space can be a huge draw for potential buyers, and a well-tended yard can increase the likelihood of buyers setting up a home tour. In making improvements to your outdoor space, seek to create a space that works well in your climate and adheres to current trends. To get a better sense of what buyers in the market are looking for, speak with Aryne + Dulcinea, who can provide you with the professional landscaping services to elevate your outdoor space and maximize your investment!

 

About Us:
Over the course of their professional partnership, Aryne + Dulcinea have helped over 200 clients prosper in their new lives. During this time, they have prided themselves in their top-notch selling abilities, with homes outperforming market standards, consistently exceeding list price while most of their listings sell in under 7 days. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Aryne & Dulcinea will work in collaboration to guide you in investing in your future and reaching your real estate goals.

Pro Tip: How to Sell Your Home in Time for Peak Market Prices

Posted on by Aryne + Dulcinea

The Portland real estate market is kicking into full gear as hopeful buyers continue to drive demand. With the busy season continuing through the spring and summer months, there is still enough time for prospective sellers to market their homes in time for the sector’s top-performing weeks. If you’re hoping to make a move this summer, these tips will help you secure more profits from your investment.

Call in the Experts

Before diving in on repair and remodeling projects, contact Aryne + Dulcinea to guide you through the process.

– They have experience in both buying and selling.

– They are tech savvy and up-to-date on the latest MLS systems and listing websites.

– Aryne + Dulcinea have connections to trustworthy inspectors and contractors.

Aryne + Dulcinea will be your negotiators, advocates and gurus, with the experience and soft skills to best serve you.

To Remodel, or Not to Remodel?

Many sellers debate the pros and cons of remodeling prior to selling their home. While putting in elbow grease will increase the value of your property, smaller projects are generally a more secure investment, as they typically require less cash and yield higher returns. Before tearing down walls and remodeling your living spaces, take on these weekend DIY projects to increase your homes desirability.

Curb Appeal: Creating a welcoming exterior should be at the top of your to-do list. The outside of your home is prominently displayed across real estate sites and will be doing a lot of the heavy-lifting when it comes to getting buyers to view the property. First impressions are critical, so clear out your yard and add in some landscaping to warm things up. To get even more out of your home’s façade, consider modernizing your front door and any visible garage doors.

Paint & Flooring: Another key influencer in buyer perception is the appearance of your floors and walls. Keep in mind that potential buyers want to visualize their future in your space. Freshly painted walls and clean floors play a critical role in this process, as scuffs and stains distract from their internal narrative. In our 15 years of combined experience, we’ve never come across a property which couldn’t benefit from a fresh coat of paint and restored flooring!

Kitchen Updates: It’s been said that in selling your home, you’re actually selling your kitchen. Many prospective buyers prioritize a home’s kitchen in their decision to put in an offer, making it one of the most important areas of your home to focus on. Of course, no hopeful seller should go above their means to perform a large-scale remodel project in the hopes of a big payout. Instead, a few minor tweaks such as painted cabinets with modern hardware, new lighting fixtures, laminate floors, or selected appliance upgrades can create a ‘WOW’ effect without busting your budget. In fact, adding even one high-end appliance has shown to improve overall perception of the kitchen, as it also raises the perceived value of the remaining appliances.

With a few weekend DIY projects and the consultation of Aryne + Dulcinea, you can have your house on the market just in time for peak-season prices. To learn more about selling homes contact us today!

About Us:
Over the course of their professional partnership, Aryne + Dulcinea have helped over 200 clients prosper in their new lives. During this time, they have prided themselves in their top-notch selling abilities, with homes outperforming market standards, consistently exceeding list price while most of their listings sell in under 7 days. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Aryne & Dulcinea will work in collaboration to guide you in investing in your future and reaching your real estate goals.