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Market Activity for May 17-23, 2010

The housing market in Lake Oswego included 19 new listings, 15 pending sales, and 14 closed sales. You will probably notice some categories moved/missing/changed. Linda and I use a macro in excell to develop these charts. RMLS has made technical changes that are affecting our macro, which we need to re-work. Thanks for your patience while we get the kinks ironed out. I think the basic data is here.

Here is your weekly update (see below the tables for additional notes):

NEWLY LISTED (May 17—23, 2010)

Address List Price # BR SF Up+Mn Prop Type
322 CERVANTES CIR $85,000 2 832 CONDO
512 S STATE ST $129,900 1 829 CONDO
668 MCVEY AVE $149,000 2 976 CONDO
16515 INVERURIE RD $299,000 3 1,772 DETACHD
16808 INVERURIE RD $299,900 3 1,182 DETACHD
14372 CAMDEN LN $448,500 3 2,348 DETACHD
1462 GREENTREE CIR $449,900 4 2,507 DETACHD
8 MORNINGVIEW CIR $529,900 3 2,217 DETACHD
230 4TH ST 619900 3 2,165 DETACHD
13265 FOX RUN 680000 3 2,614 DETACHD
17632 WOODHURST PL 699900 5 – DETACHD
17970 ROYCE WAY 799000 4 2,713 DETACHD
19000 BRYANT RD 965000 5 5,874 DETACHD
1425 CHANDLER RD 978000 4 2,204 DETACHD
1235 CHANDLER RD 985000 5 2,044 DETACHD
17301 BERGIS FARM DR 1060000 4 – DETACHD
2569 GLEN EAGLES PL 1349000 5 4,591 DETACHD
13900 GOODALL RD 1600000 5 4,282 DETACHD
1973 CHERYL CT 1695000 5 4,396 DETACHD

PENDING SALES (May 17-23, 2010)

Address List Price # BR Sq Ft SF Up+Mn Prop Type CDOM
100 KERR PKWY $77,500 2 823 823 CONDO 66
100 KERR PKWY $92,500 2 823 823 CONDO 27
3433 SW MCNARY PKWY $123,900 2 1008 1,008 CONDO 98
32 CERVANTES CIR $129,500 2 1092 912 CONDO 160
136 TOUCHSTONE TER $279,000 3 1996 1,198 DETACHD 243
729 3RD ST $295,000 4 1671 1,671 DETACHD 10
4313 ALBERT CIR $367,900 3 1790 1,790 DETACHD 14
1255 BAYBERRY RD $375,000 3 1901 1,901 DETACHD 253
1400 LEE ST 421500 4 2804 1,514 DETACHD 146
24 PARTRIDGE LN 449000 4 3224 3,224 DETACHD 40
675 10TH ST 490000 4 2280 1,272 DETACHD 374
14158 KIMBERLY CIR 530000 5 3548 3,648 DETACHD 18
1158 BAYBERRY RD 649000 4 2386 2,386 DETACHD 10
1703 VILLAGE PARK LN 749000 3 3450 3,450 DETACHD 156
1414 COUNTRY COMMONS 945000 4 5679 3,082 DETACHD 68

SOLD (May 17-23, 2010)

Address Closed Price Original Price #BR Sq Ft Prop Type CDOM
65 OSWEGO SMT $118,000 $129,900 2 1,140 CONDO 8
5051 FOOTHILLS DR $169,900 $210,000 2 991 CONDO 248
750 1ST ST $178,000 $195,000 2 1,350 CONDO 73
5056 FOOTHILLS DR $257,000 $299,900 2 1,252 CONDO 194
19032 KRISTI WAY $262,000 $259,900 2 1,390 DETACHD 7
4420 GOLDEN LN $295,000 $279,900 3 2,165 CONDO 391
119 3RD ST $350,000 $429,900 3 1,204 CONDO 187
5299 LAKEVIEW BLVD $365,000 $399,900 4 2,165 DETACHD 594
2440 OVERLOOK DR $480,000 $525,000 4 3,874 DETACHD 36
815 COUNTRY COMMONS LN $494,500 $595,000 4 2,376 DETACHD 83
3115 ROSEMARY LN $513,000 $599,900 3 3,324 DETACHD 244
17388 CEDAR RD $575,000 $875,000 2 2,134 DETACHD 402
18125 WESTMINSTER DR $658,000 699888 5 3,969 DETACHD 344
356 9TH ST $1,070,000 $1,275,000 4 3,647 DETACHD 98

Criteria: Homes in the 97034 and 97035 zip code, listed, pending or sold between the dates listed above as reported by the Regional Multiple Listing Service (RMLS). DETACHD refers to Single Family Detached Residence, MFG refers to manufactured housing, and ATTACHD refers to single-family residences with some portion of the structure attached to another property, but not constituting CONDO ownership. DOM stands for days on market, or the number of days from when the listing became active and when it received an acceptable offer, with CDOM standing for “cumulative days on market” accounting for “refreshed” listings.

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Open House in Lake Oswego for May 23rd

The RMLS is promoting 29 open houses for this Sunday. Enjoy!

Address List Price Year Built BR & BTH Prop Type Open
1684 BOCA RATAN DR $248,900 1969 3 & 2 ATTACHD 1 to 3
16535 ROOSEVELT AVE $249,000 1953 3 & 2 DETACHD 1 to 3
2245 GLEN HAVEN RD $348,500 1955 3 & 1.5 DETACHD 1 to 3
19242 TERRY AVE $369,500 1965 4 & 2 DETACHD 2 to 4
231 LAUREL ST $425,000 1956 3 & 3 DETACHD 1 to 3
71 TANGLEWOOD DR $449,000 1972 3 & 3 DETACHD 1 to 3
1931 WOODLAND TER $474,000 1968 4 & 3 DETACHD 1 to 4
5475 WILLOW CT $474,900 2008 3 & 2.5 ATTACHD 1 to 3
17640 TREETOP WAY 524000 1969 4 & 3 DETACHD 2 to 4
535 B AVE 539000 1990 2 & 2.5 ATTACHD 12 to 2
5678 CHARLES CIR 540000 1985 3 & 4 DETACHD 1 to 4
363 6TH ST 549900 2009 3 & 3.5 ATTACHD 1 to 4
1060 UPPER DEVON LN 559000 1974 3 & 2.5 DETACHD 1 to 3
17930 MEADOWLARK LN 575000 1974 4 & 4 DETACHD 1 to 3
4 NANSEN SUMMIT 599000 1982 4 & 2.5 DETACHD 3 to 5
18010 GIMLEY CT 649000 1979 4 & 2.5 DETACHD 12 to 3
18606 WESTVIEW DR 649900 1985 3 & 2.5 DETACHD 12 to 3
1015 SOUTHSHORE BLVD 755000 1953 4 & 3 DETACHD 12 to 2
1687 VILLAGE PARK LN 879000 1989 4 & 3 DETACHD 1 to 3
606 6TH ST 789000 – 898876 1920 4 & 3 DETACHD 2 to 4
17896 KELOK RD 929000 2010 5 & 5 DETACHD 2 to 4
18222 SIENA DR 1088000 2010 6 & 4.5 DETACHD 1 to 3
18209 SIENA DR 1178950 2009 5 & 3.5 DETACHD 1 to 3
18143 SIENA DR 1197000 2009 5 & 4.5 DETACHD 1 to 3
1808 RIDGE POINTE DR 1269000 2010 5 & 4.5 DETACHD 1 to 3
18246 BELLA TERRA DR 1294000 2009 4 & 3.5 DETACHD 1 to 3
112 NORTHSHORE CIR 1695000 1938 4 & 4.5+.5 DETACHD 1 to 3
15825 OSWEGO SHORE CT 1985850 2006 4 & 3.5 DETACHD 1 to 3
2572 GLEN EAGLES PL 2395000 2009 5 & 4.5+.5 DETACHD 1 to 3
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Take good care of your credit

I suppose it is somewhat of a no-brainer that as a consumer you need to take good care of your credit, but if you are considering buying real estate, it is more important than ever. The days that qualified you to buy a home by merely having a pulse are long gone. Credit is more important than ever.

What is a FICO Score?
The FICO score was developed by The Fair Isaac Corporation in 1958. It is a statistical analysis of the likelihood of default. It has long been considered the most fair means of analyzing credit because it is purely about statistics with no consideration given for any personal matters such as sex, race, religion, etc. Mortgage lenders reliance on FICO Scores has gained in prominence and only looks to increase.

A FICO Score can be anywhere from 300-850. It is made up of the following considerations:
35% is payment history: do you pay your bills on time?
30% is ratio of available credit used: do you max out your credit cards?
15% is length of credit history.
10% is types of credit (having a variety of credit is good)
10% is recent credit inquiries

So it is more than simply paying your bills on time. If you want an 850 credit score, you certainly need to pay your bills on time, but you also need a variety of credit, not too much of it, that has low balances, that you have managed for years, and that you have not recently applied for. I have heard it said that the magic number of credit cards is 4, most with little or no balances. You do need to be using the credit. If you have 4 credit cards that you never use, it is not going to help you.

By law you are entitled to a free annual credit report. You can obtain one from each of the 3 credit bureaus by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com Because there are 3 credit bureaus, each with their own means of analysis, you will want to obtain copies of all 3 reports. If you see something strange on the report, you will also find links to managing your credit and fixing your credit.

Why FICO matters when you buy a house.
First, having a high credit score will allow you to obtain a lower interest rate on your mortgage. On a 30-year fixed mortgage of $300,000, a person with a FICO score of 760-850 will be able to obtain an interest rate of about 4.567% and that will make the payment $1532 per month. With a credit score of 620-639, that same 30-year mortgage would have an interest rate of 6.156% and a monthly payment of $1829 per month. That is a difference of $300! Yes, you will be rewarded for being financially strong.

Second, your credit is going to be checked more then once when you buy a house. According to a recent article by Kenneth Harney of the Washington Post, on June 1st,Fannie Mae will be requiring a second credit report be pulled just prior to close of escrow. This is to find out if anything has changed with the buyer’s credit since the loan was approved. If it has changed, then, poof, you could be kicked right out of closing and not be able to buy the house you want. This means that once you find a home and get your offer accepted, do not do anything to change your credit. Even making an inquiry for new credit could create disaster. Suppose you go to a furniture store and apply for a line of credit because you are dreaming of furnishing your new home? You don’t even have to make a purchase. Just having the extra credit available could affect your credit. While in escrow, make all payments on time, but make no credit applications, no purchases on credit, and no changes, no matter how small, to your credit situation. This is much more strict than I have ever seen. It is real. I had a closing postponed for 3 weeks while the buyer made a $500 payment on his credit card and we waited for the payment to be reflected in his FICO score with the 3 credit bureaus. I am also aware of 1 late payment on a credit card while in escrow that completely kicked the loan out of underwriting and the transaction sale failed.

Please let me know if you have any questions on this issue or if you need any help. I work with a couple of excellent lenders who are happy to take the time to help you build and repair your credit so that you can qualify for the house of your dreams.

Dianne

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Market Activity Report for May 10-16, 2010

The housing market in Lake Oswego included 19 new listings, 11 pending sales, and 13 closed sales. You will probably notice some categories moved/missing/changed. Linda and I use a macro in excell to develop these charts. RMLS has made technical changes that are affecting our macro, which we need to re-work. Thanks for your patience while we get the kinks ironed out. I think the basic data is here.

Here is your weekly update (see below the tables for additional notes):

NEWLY LISTED (May 10—16, 2010)

Address List Price Year Built Sq. Ft. Prop Type
3433 MCNARY PKWY $125,000 1994 1,136 CONDO
4 TOUCHSTONE $179,000 1970 675 CONDO
18430 PILKINGTON RD $259,000 1973 1,029 DETACHD
244 Greenridge DR $319,000 1974 1,907 ATTACHD
5031 TUALATA LN $329,000 1969 1,492 DETACHD
5973 KENNYCROFT WAY $329,500 1962 1,202 DETACHD
5827 BONITA RD $399,900 2002 1,771 DETACHD
16931 Bryant RD $424,500 1930 1,767 ATTACHD
71 TANGLEWOOD DR 449000 1972 2,616 DETACHD
13364 AUBURN CT 450000 2005 2,371 ATTACHD
464 LIVINGOOD LN 459995 1985 1,454 DETACHD
19451 SW DOGWOOD CT 559900 2010 3,594 DETACHD
8 DEL PRADO ST 599950 1972 1,877 DETACHD
4121 CHILDS RD 789900 2006 3,352 DETACHD
11 HILLSHIRE DR 825000 1990 3,415 DETACHD
3030 WESTVIEW CT 859000 1969 2,635 DETACHD
490 COUNTRY CLUB RD 900000 1938 2,240 DETACHD
2607 PALISADES CREST DR 1000000 1981 – DETACHD
2133 HAZEL RD 1325000 2006 3,965 DETACHD

PENDING SALES (May 10-16, 2010)

Address List Price Year Built Sq. Ft. Prop Type
775 BOCA RATAN DR $180,000 1975 2,401 DETACHD
1960 MAPLELEAF RD $225,000 1965 1,210 DETACHD
729 3RD ST $295,000 1948 1,671 DETACHD
666 3RD ST $299,900 1948 953 DETACHD
18922 REDWING WAY $369,900 1969 2,076 DETACHD
16044 INVERURIE RD $399,000 1942 952 DETACHD
1025 C AVE $408,950 1950 1,263 DETACHD
1055 COUNTRY CLUB RD $449,000 1954 1,552 DETACHD
5711 SOUTHWOOD DR 519000 1990 2,655 DETACHD
106 3RD ST 649000 1957 1,495 DETACHD
17281 LOWENBERG TER 839900 2009 2,996 DETACHD

SOLD (May 10-16, 2010)

Address Original Price Sold Price SF Prop Type CDOM
8 OSWEGO SMT $135,000 $123,000 1140 CONDO 115
1137 SPRUCE ST $258,900 $254,900 1214 DETACHD 7
15256 BOONES WAY $335,000 $284,950 1600 ATTACHD 350
4774 OAKRIDGE RD $339,000 $332,500 2104 DETACHD 220
5 ORIOLE LN $340,000 $341,000 2024 DETACHD 14
4548 BLACK FOREST CT $550,000 $393,000 2157 DETACHD 644
4962 BILFORD LN $439,000 $405,000 2168 DETACHD 106
2251 PRESTWICK RD $407,250 $407,250 2236 DETACHD 3
531 2ND ST $399,000 $412,000 1393 CONDO 57
4705 LAKEVIEW BLVD $529,900 $510,000 2700 DETACHD 7
17644 WOODHURST PL $629,900 $550,000 4509 DETACHD 927
5245 LANGFORD LN $719,000 $709,000 2957 DETACHD 104
1224 TYNDALL CT $849,000 $779,000 4157 DETACHD 306

Criteria: Homes in the 97034 and 97035 zip code, listed, pending or sold between the dates listed above as reported by the Regional Multiple Listing Service (RMLS). DETACHD refers to Single Family Detached Residence, MFG refers to manufactured housing, and ATTACHD refers to single-family residences with some portion of the structure attached to another property, but not constituting CONDO ownership. DOM stands for days on market, or the number of days from when the listing became active and when it received an acceptable offer, with CDOM standing for “cumulative days on market” accounting for “refreshed” listings.

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Lake Oswego Open Houses ~ Sunday, June 13, 2010

Enjoy this gorgeous Rose Festival Weekend, and add Home Shopping to your agenda with 33 properties open for your viewing pleasure on Sunday.

Here are the Open Houses according to RMLS:

Address L/Price # Beds # Baths Total SF Prop Type Time
1684 BOCA RATAN DR $248,900 3 2 1611 TWNHSE 1-3PM
19167 LONGFELLOW AVE $269,000 3 2.1 1782 DETACHD 1-6PM
16711 MELLON AVE $309,900 3 2 1346 DETACHD 1-3PM
18238 TERRY AVE $350,000 3 2.1 1604 DETACHD 12-2PM
5160 TUALATA LN $354,900 3 2 1470 DETACHD 1:30-4PM
5160 TUALATA LN $354,900 3 2 1470 DETACHD 1:30-4PM
5324 LOWER DR $370,000 3 2.1 2034 DETACHD 12-2PM
19026 INDIAN SPRINGS RD $385,000 5 3 2471 DETACHD 10AM-2PM
5827 BONITA RD $399,900 3 2 1771 DETACHD 2-4PM
5364 ROSEWOOD ST $401,500 4 2.1 1980 DETACHD 1-3PM
17460 SCHALIT WAY $418,900 4 3 2197 DETACHD 1-4PM
2697 LOOKOUT CT $429,000 3 2 2219 DETACHD 10-11:30AM
662 CLARA CT $429,900 3 3 2740 DETACHD 4-6PM
1462 GREENTREE CIR $435,000 4 2.1 2507 DETACHD 1-4PM
1970 GREENTREE RD $450,000 4 3 2428 DETACHD 1-4PM
2705 ORCHARD HILL LN $469,900 4 2.1 2841 DETACHD 1-4PM
17640 TREETOP WAY $498,900 4 3 2718 DETACHD 2:30-4PM
5008 HAMPTON CT $529,000 3 2.1 2346 DETACHD 12-2PM
19415 SW DOGWOOD CT $539,900 5 3 3517 DETACHD 12-5PM
19451 SW DOGWOOD CT $559,900 6 3 3547 DETACHD 12-5PM
33 MORNINGVIEW CIR $574,900 3 2.1 2737 DETACHD 2-4PM
4070 VIRGINIA WAY $725,000 3 2.1 3510 DETACHD 1-3PM
5 CELLINI CT $735,000 5 3.1 4895 DETACHD 1-3PM
1930 INDIAN TRL $829,500 3 3 3260 DETACHD 1-3PM
3030 WESTVIEW CT $844,500 4 2.1 3415 DETACHD 11-1PM
18209 SIENA DR $1,178,950 5 3.1 3839 DETACHD 12-2PM
18143 SIENA DR $1,197,000 5 4.1 4152 DETACHD 21-2PM
1808 RIDGE POINTE DR $1,269,000 5 4.1 4155 DETACHD 21-2PM
2569 GLEN EAGLES PL $1,349,000 5 4.2 4591 DETACHD 1-4PM
4700 SW DOGWOOD DR $1,499,900 5 3.1 5401 DETACHD 2:30-4PM
1790 Skyland DR $1,599,000 5 4.1 6033 DETACHD 1-3PM
14242 BRIDGE CT $1,999,950 5 4.2 6139 DETACHD 2-4PM
2572 GLEN EAGLES PL $2,285,000 5 4.2 6490 DETACHD 1-3PM
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News & Notes

Real Estate News ~

Have a wood stove?  Planning to buy or sell a home with one? Note that beginning August 1st, 2010, in an effort to control emissions from smoke, when selling a home you will be required to remove the wood stove if it is “uncertified” by the DEQ.  Here is a link for more information: Woodstoves in Oregon

Greece and Mortgage Rates – MBS Quoteline reports: ” Despite stronger than expected economic data, the financial situation in Greece held the greatest influence on mortgage rates this week. A flight to quality and prospects of slower economic growth in Europe were favorable for mortgage markets and negative for the stock market, and mortgage rates ended the week lower.”

Current Mortgage Rates and Mortgage Insurance Updates – According to Pat Goodell of Academy Mortgage:

  • “Some of the Mortgage Insurance companies have gone to tiered pricing based on credit scores which is good news to those with good credit scores.  Mortgage insurance companies also will now allow “up front mortgage insurance” (in lieu of monthly mortgage insurance) to be paid by the seller.  The potential advantage of this is that the seller can pay the up front mortgage insurance as part of any allowable closing costs that a buyer might negotiate for a seller to pay.  Then the buyer has no mortgage insurance premium to pay as part of their mortgage – this may or may not be an advantage to the buyer depending on their situation; but it does help for qualifying by reducing their monthly mortgage payment.  There are qualifying parameters for this option and the lender also has to approve this option as well.”
  • “Interest rates are holding steady now with the 30-yr fixed still hovering around 5% — 30-yr fixed today is actually available at 4.875% with 0 pts, depending on the buyer’s qualifications.”

    • Community Notes ~

    Farmers Market opens this Saturday, May 15th in Lake Oswego. (yay!)  This is the 10th Anniversary Celebration.  You can find the food  & fun at Millennium Plaza Park from 8:30AM – 1:30PM on Saturdays through October 9th.   Local musical group, Southern Nights, will perform from 10:30AM till 12:30PM at the kickoff, and the Bike Gallery will be there to check your kids’ helmets!

    May is Sustainability Action Month. Take advantage of these local events:

    • Free screening of the film Deep Green with local film-maker Matt Briggs. This is an insightful look at “uncovering the best people with the best solutions for “de-carbonizing energy and restoring the natural world.” It will be held Saturday evening, May 15th at 7:30Pm at the Lake Grove Presbyterian Church, 4040 Sunset Drive.  Bring your family and friends!
    • Get a good look at Lake Oswego’s Century Trees on the Century Tree Bike Ride, May 22nd.  The bike ride is hosted by the Planning Dept.’s Green Team, and more information can be had by contacting Laura Weigel at Lweigel@ci.oswego.or.us .

    Lake Oswego’s city council created the Sustainability Action Board (SAB) in 2008. For more information on sustainability, visit: The Sustainability Resource Page

    To Move or Not To Move / Lifestyle Options for Older Adults , an educational program for seniors and their families is designed to give information on housing options and resources in Lake Oswego.  You are invited to attend on May 16th, from 2:00PM to 5:00Pm at the Lake Oswego Adult Community Center, 505 G Avenue.

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    Market Activity Report ~ May 3-9, 2010

    There were 28 New properties entering the market, 10 going to Pending status, and 11 Sold during last week’s Monday – Sunday period according to RMLS.

    I notice a lot of nice condos & townhomes hitting the market- The one at Oswego Summit has been off the market for awhile & just came back on with a $25,000 drop in price… it’s a beautiful property. Also, of note: I included Greenwood because it just took a $200,000. drop in price. This is a short sale, and is a really unusual place… an old church I believe… nealy 4000 SF with all sorts of potential and lake views for $650,000. Glenmorrie is a bank-owned property on the Willamette River. Sitting on a .89 acre lot, the house needs some fixing but hey, it’s $519,750. It already has multiple offers as I understand it.

    Here’ your weekly update (see below the tables for additional notes):

    NEWLY LISTED (May 3—9, 2010)

    Address List Price Prop Type # Beds # Baths Total SF List Date
    4 TOUCHSTONE $129,000 CONDO 2 2 984 5/5/2010
    85 OSWEGO SMT $200,000 CONDO 2 2 1212 5/5/2010
    16250 PACIFIC HWY $229,900 CONDO 2 2 1305 5/3/2010
    4610 LAMONT WAY $247,500 DETACHD 3 2 1750 5/9/2010
    3485 DEVONSHIRE DR $264,900 ATTACHD 3 2.1 1556 5/8/2010
    666 3RD ST $299,900 DETACHD 3 1.1 1759 5/7/2010
    6301 ALYSSA TER $314,900 ATTACHD 3 2.1 1546 5/4/2010
    6317 ALYSSA TER $329,000 ATTACHD 3 2.1 1546 5/3/2010
    466 5TH ST $349,900 ATTACHD 2 1.2 1092 5/7/2010
    4313 ALBERT CIR $367,900 DETACHD 3 2 1790 5/6/2010
    5160 TUALATA LN $369,900 DETACHD 3 2 1470 5/3/2010
    5275 ROSEWOOD ST $379,000 DETACHD 4 2.1 2096 5/5/2010
    18591 WAXWING WAY $424,900 DETACHD 3 2.1 2145 5/3/2010
    5364 ROSEWOOD ST $425,000 DETACHD 4 2.1 1980 5/3/2010
    231 LAUREL ST $425,000 DETACHD 3 3 2244 5/9/2010
    1055 COUNTRY CLUB RD $449,000 DETACHD 2 2 2528 5/6/2010
    13455 AUBURN CT $449,950 ATTACHD 3 2.1 1892 5/3/2010
    5490 ROYAL OAKS DR $475,000 DETACHD 3 2 1761 5/4/2010
    6 CHURCHILL DOWNS $499,950 DETACHD 5 3.1 2922 5/5/2010
    3188 S GLENMORRIE DR $519,750 DETACHD 3 3 3066 5/6/2010
    40 MORNINGVIEW CIR $549,500 DETACHD 3 2.1 2164 5/9/2010
    5008 HAMPTON CT $594,000 DETACHD 4 2.1 2346 5/5/2010
    14 WESTMINSTER DR $599,900 DETACHD 4 3 2768 5/7/2010
    1158 BAYBERRY RD $649,000 DETACHD 4 4 2386 5/7/2010
    13991 CHELSEA DR $649,000 DETACHD 4 2.1 3357 5/5/2010
    156 GREENWOOD RD $650,000 DETACHD 2 2 3918 5/7/2010
    4123 CHAD DR $769,950 DETACHD 4 3.1 3836 5/5/2010
    620 CABANA LN $1,395,000 DETACHD 3 2.1 2417 5/3/2010

    PENDING SALES (May 3-9, 2010)

    Address List Price # Beds # Baths Total SF Prop Type CDOM
    109 OSWEGO SMT $144,900 2 2 1212 CONDO 47
    5051 FOOTHILLS DR $175,000 2 2 991 CONDO 248
    5 SUMMIT RIDGE CT $297,500 2 2.1 1576 ATTACHD 58
    4251 WOODSIDE CIR $305,950 3 2 2032 ATTACHD 48
    16969 ALDER CIR $329,900 3 2 1534 DETACHD 67
    454 5TH ST $335,000 2 1.1 1092 ATTACHD 156
    18640 TUALATA AVE $349,900 4 3 2076 DETACHD 77
    676 9TH ST $435,000 2 1 1850 DETACHD 259
    1436 GREENTREE CIR $474,000 4 2 3072 DETACHD 10
    610 9TH ST $975,000 4 3.1 3690 DETACHD 575

    SOLD (May 3-9, 2010)

    Address O/Price Close Price # Beds # Baths Total SF Prop Type CDOM
    15200 BOONES WAY $175,000 $163,400 2 1.1 1248 CONDO 142
    210 Durham ST $199,900 $190,000 3 1.1 1318 CONDO 146
    17886 TUALATA AVE $415,000 $358,000 4 2 1994 DETACHD 218
    533 2ND ST $399,000 $399,000 2 2 1274 CONDO 42
    4002 TEMPEST DR $430,000 $430,000 4 3.1 4319 DETACHD 33
    5 EL GRECO ST $469,000 $489,000 4 2.1 2455 DETACHD 4
    4311 ORCHARD WAY $519,000 $515,000 4 2.1 2916 DETACHD 201
    5830 SUNBROOK DR $539,000 $520,000 5 2.1 2810 DETACHD 29
    17 SCARBOROUGH DR $579,900 $525,000 4 2.1 3290 DETACHD 24
    19203 SW Megly Ct $575,000 $569,900 5 3.1 3595 DETACHD 76
    749 SOUTHVIEW RD $899,000 $885,000 4 2.1 3052 DETACHD 4

    Criteria: Homes in the 97034 and 97035 zip code, listed, pending or sold between the dates listed above as reported by the Regional Multiple Listing Service (RMLS). DETACHD refers to Single Family Detached Residence, MFG refers to manufactured housing, and ATTACHD refers to single-family residences with some portion of the structure attached to another property, but not constituting CONDO ownership. DOM stands for days on market, or the number of days from when the listing became active and when it received an acceptable offer, with CDOM standing for “cumulative days on market” accounting for “refreshed” listings.

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    Open Houses on Mother’s Day, 5/9/2010

    There are just 8 houses being promoted to be held open this Sunday, a reflection that many are celebrating the day with family. If you are able to get out, please take the time to go and see these great houses:

    Address List Price Year Built SF Up+Mn Prop Type BR/BTH Open
    116 TOUCHSTONE TER $310,000 1972 1,058 ATTACHD 3/2.5 1 to 3
    19242 TERRY AVE $370,000 1965 936 DETACHD 4/2.0 2 to 4
    9 WESTMINSTER DR $535,000 1976 3,042 DETACHD 4/ 2.5.5.5 2 to 4
    339 6TH ST $575,000 2010 1,506 ATTACHD 4/ 3.5 1 to 4
    92 GARIBALDI ST $699,000 1991 2,584 DETACHD 4/3.5 12 to 3
    16827 SCOTT CT $910,000 1993 3,952 DETACHD 4/3.5 1 to 3
    16805 SCOTT CT $1,190,000 1992 4,321 DETACHD 4/3.5 2 to 4
    18820 GREENBLUFF DR $1,395,000 2000 4,656 DETACHD 4/4.5 12 to 3
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    Secrets of Lake Oswego’s Famous Flower Baskets

    There are several things that Lake Oswego is famous for: the Lake, beautiful homes, great schools, and the glorious flower baskets. The baskets have been hung annually on the main streets of town for many years. They are spectacular with both great size and great color. As someone who loves flowers and working in my garden, I’ve wondered how they do it. What are the secrets that make the LO baskets thrive? They start out pretty and of good size, but by summer’s end they hang about 6 feet down and are a profusion of color that is just amazing. Last Saturday I attended a class put on by the City Park’s and Recreation Department where I learned how they do it. So here it is: the secrets of Lake Oswego’s famous flower baskets.

    Start with a 12 inch hanging pot that is nearly as deep as it is wide. The city uses 16 inch pots, but those are much too large for the scale of most homes. 10 inch pots can also be used, but they require watering twice daily, whereas the 12 inch pot can get by on once daily watering. Also recommended is a pot with a straight side. This allows as much soil and water as possible for root development. These instructions are for a 12 inch pot. If you use one that is either larger or smaller, please make your own adjustments.

    Fill the pot about half full of soil. The recommended soil is NW Best Soil Potting Mix. This is what is used by the City. It is the choice because it contains “Sirfactin” which allows the walls of soil to expand so water doesn’t run around the planting mix and out the bottom of the container. To this soil, mix in about 1/4 cup of Plant-Tone, a fertilizer to get the plants off to a good start.

    Before adding any more soil, remember the planter is only about half full, place 7, 4-inch plant starts. If they are in plastic containers, pull them out. If they are in the kind that are made of compost you can just set them into the planter in the container and the container will decompose as the roots develop. Think about putting a plant that will grow tall in the center such as a geranium. Then place the other 6 plants around the perimeter that will hang as they spread and grow. Think about having a variety of colors and textures. The planters made for the city are designed to be hung in full sun. You can design your own flowers based upon where you intend to hang your planter. Using a 12 inch planter and 4 inch plants you will find that this really packs the pot completely full of plants. The 7th one has to be pretty much squeezed into the planter. This will leave just a few areas between the edges of the plants that need to be filled with dirt. Find those spots and gently fill dirt in around the plants. When you are done the level of the top of the dirt should be about one inch below the rim of the pot. (It’s a good idea when testing the first plant you put into the container to eye-ball the level and see if you need to fill your planter more than half full when you add the initial soil).

    Water immediately and really let the water run. The planter needs to be watered DAILY, even on days that have rain. Rain will not be enough to thoroughly saturate the soil. It is not possible to over-water this planter. Yes, you really have to water it every single day. When you water, let the water gently run and then keep the water going. Count to 50, sing a short song, whatever you can do to force yourself to stand at the planter and thoroughly water the planter.  Do it every single day and on those days with really extreme heat, do it TWICE.

    Once a week fertilize with Proven Winners. This is a fertilizer that is widely sold in the area. You mix it into a big gallon watering can with water and poor it into the planter. It has a balance of fertilizers that is 24-12-17. It contains 15 nutrients, not just nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, but trace elements as well.

    When you hang your planter remember a couple of things. This planter is going to get very large. This means that it will be very heavy so make certain that it is on a hook that will hold the growing weight. Also hang it where it has room to grow. By the end of the season it will hang 4 to 6 feet long. It will be a total show piece in your garden.

    If you have questions or need help, or want to buy any and all of the materials listed above, the place to go is The Garden Corner in Tualatin. Located at 21550 SW 108th Ave in Tualatin, this garden center has been the birthplace of the LO hanging baskets for many years. They are proud of their participation in the LO hanging basket program and are happy to be of help to you when you grow a basket of your very own.

    I’ve got my basket hanging at my home. I am eager to see just how big it is going to get. Let me know if you do one too. Maybe we can share some photos in September!

    Remember, gardening is great therapy for your soul.
    Dianne

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    Market Activity Report ~ April 26 – May 2, 2010

    Lake Oswego had 22 New properties enter the market, 26 go to Pending status, and 19 Sold during last week’s Monday – Sunday period according to RMLS. Sold Activity was up from the previous weeks (8 Sold last report, 11 the week prior, and 7 the week before that). This is possibly due to the last-minute push to get in under the tax credits timeline. Here’ your weekly update (see below the tables for additional notes):

    NEWLY LISTED (April 26—May 2, 2010)

    Address List Price # Beds # Baths Total SF Prop Type List Date
    100 KERR PKWY $129,900 2 1.1 868 CONDO 4/28/2010
    45 EAGLE CREST DR $145,000 1 1 768 CONDO 4/26/2010
    18963 SW LONGFELLOW AVE $319,900 3 1.1 1232 DETACHD 4/26/2010
    103 3RD ST $349,900 2 2 1006 CONDO 4/27/2010
    1751 ASPEN CT $359,000 3 2 1550 DETACHD 4/28/2010
    1480 HEMLOCK ST $399,900 4 3 2246 DETACHD 4/28/2010
    16 PARTRIDGE LN $419,000 3 2.1 2304 DETACHD 4/26/2010
    26 BRIARWOOD RD $429,000 4 2.2 2564 DETACHD 4/27/2010
    15860 BOONES WAY $429,000 3 2 2105 DETACHD 4/29/2010
    950 LAKE FRONT RD $439,000 3 2.1 2026 DETACHD 4/30/2010
    4954 MULHOLLAND DR $460,000 3 2.1 2498 ATTACHD 4/27/2010
    1436 GREENTREE CIR $474,000 4 2 3072 DETACHD 4/27/2010
    14158 KIMBERLY CIR $530,000 5 3 3648 DETACHD 4/30/2010
    9 WESTMINSTER DR $535,000 4 2.3 3814 DETACHD 5/1/2010
    5722 CHARLES CIR $599,900 4 2.1 2674 DETACHD 4/30/2010
    2475 MARYLVIEW CT $612,000 4 2.1 3049 DETACHD 4/29/2010
    17769 OVERLOOK CIR $659,900 5 3.1 3498 DETACHD 4/27/2010
    19125 35TH PL $920,000 4 4.1 5153 DETACHD 5/1/2010
    4912 FIRWOOD RD $999,900 4 4 5640 DETACHD 4/26/2010
    1115 NORTHSHORE RD $1,489,000 4 4.1 4330 DETACHD 4/26/2010
    1335 CHANDLER RD $1,699,000 3 2.1 3988 DETACHD 4/29/2010
    3530 LAKEVIEW BLVD $2,950,000 4 3.1 4200 DETACHD 4/28/2010

    PENDING SALES (April 26 – May 2, 2010)

    Address List Price # Beds # Baths Total SF Prop Type CDOM
    7 CRESTFIELD CT $78,000 1 1 689 CONDO 73
    38 CERVANTES CIR $99,900 2 1.1 912 CONDO 230
    12846 SW BOONES FERRY RD $189,999 2 2.1 1136 CONDO 532
    200 BURNHAM RD 169000 – 200000 2 2 1313 CONDO 674
    16250 PACIFIC HWY 189000 – 210000 3 2 1761 CONDO 210
    16200 PACIFIC HWY $239,000 2 2 1200 CONDO 208
    1694 FIRCREST CT $274,900 3 2.1 2015 DETACHD 127
    15148 QUARRY RD $279,000 3 2 1618 DETACHD 11
    2320 GLEN HAVEN RD $279,900 3 1.1 1346 DETACHD 54
    17141 SW BRYANT RD $349,000 3 2 1228 DETACHD 307
    15144 BOONES WAY $369,000 4 3.1 2194 DETACHD 8
    18620 INDIAN CREEK DR $379,900 3 2 2022 DETACHD 1
    13909 MAJESTIC CT $399,900 4 3 3250 DETACHD 51
    550 2ND ST $410,000 2 1.2 1520 ATTACHD 110
    17942 SAINT CLAIR DR $449,900 4 2.1 2391 DETACHD 139
    12409 SHELBY CT $449,900 3 2 2238 DETACHD 12
    5008 HARTFORD PL $463,900 4 3 3223 DETACHD 12
    15837 ALLISON PL $529,000 4 2.1 3534 DETACHD 1216
    13970 TAYLORS CREST LN $584,000 4 2.1 3371 DETACHD 45
    17879 HILLSIDE DR $584,900 3 3 3049 DETACHD 187
    19266 SW MEGLY CT $589,900 4 3 3575 DETACHD 49
    5774 BAY POINT DR $625,000 5 2.1 3674 DETACHD 4
    520 C AVE $745,000 4 4 3242 ATTACHD 125
    540 C AVE $749,000 4 3.1 3539 ATTACHD 188
    17443 CANAL CIR $875,000 4 3.1 2344 DETACHD 45
    356 9TH ST $1,125,000 4 3.1 3647 DETACHD 98

    SOLD (April 26- May 2, 2010)

    Address O/Price Close Price # Beds # Baths Total SF Prop Type CDOM
    4 TOUCHSTONE $129,000 $125,000 2 2 984 CONDO 24
    1950 BONNIEBRAE DR $189,900 $170,000 2 1.1 1056 ATTACHD 91
    16149 PEARCY ST $229,900 $227,400 3 2 1250 DETACHD 17
    5373 LAKEVIEW BLVD $329,500 $299,000 3 1 2176 DETACHD 201
    1650 FIRCREST DR $325,000 $315,000 4 3 2384 DETACHD 537
    18156 PIONEER CT $367,300 $326,000 3 2 1558 DETACHD 27
    13707 REGENCY CT $399,000 $399,000 4 2.1 2006 DETACHD 18
    644 7TH ST $530,000 $410,000 3 2.1 1640 DETACHD 223
    13448 AUBURN CT $469,000 $455,000 3 2.1 2535 ATTACHD 131
    2650 LOOKOUT CT $495,000 $488,500 4 3.1 3480 DETACHD 8
    2545 DELLWOOD DR $579,000 $530,000 5 3.1 3843 DETACHD 948
    5783 VICTORIA CT $595,000 $550,000 3 2 2344 DETACHD 14
    4668 HASTINGS PL $574,900 $570,000 3 2.1 2630 DETACHD 0
    13315 HIDDEN BAY CT $729,000 $633,800 5 2.1 3671 DETACHD 151
    4113 WESTBAY RD $631,000 $635,100 2 3 2477 DETACHD 7
    1052 TROON RD $659,900 $659,900 3 2.1 2310 DETACHD 1
    18430 TAMAWAY DR $889,000 $876,600 4 2.2 3867 DETACHD 59
    616 CABANA LN $2,795,000 $2,150,000 5 4 3800 DETACHD 220
    1226 NORTHSHORE RD $6,150,000 $6,150,000 3 4.1 5544 DETACHD 0

    Criteria: Homes in the 97034 and 97035 zip code, listed, pending or sold between the dates listed above as reported by the Regional Multiple Listing Service (RMLS). DETACHD refers to Single Family Detached Residence, MFG refers to manufactured housing, and ATTACHD refers to single-family residences with some portion of the structure attached to another property, but not constituting CONDO ownership. DOM stands for days on market, or the number of days from when the listing became active and when it received an acceptable offer, with CDOM standing for “cumulative days on market” accounting for “refreshed” listings.