According to the latest Market Action Report for the Portland area “Closed sales in the Portland metro area for July 2009 eclipsed last July’s total by 8.6%, marking the first time same-month closed sales have increased since April 2007. Pending sales also grew 8.3%. New listings dropped 25.4% . Comparing July 2009 with June 2009, closed sales increased 11.9% (1,988 v. 1,776) and pending sales were up a slight 0.3% (2,170 v. 2,164). New listings fell 8.2% (3,907 v. 4,257).”- RMLS now offers a “Short Sale” search field for Agents to search using this criteria. It seems as though Agents are slow to be updating their listings to reflect this, but once all records are updated, this should be a helpful tool.
- Amtrak may soon be cruising through Lake Oswego if feasibility and other studies yield positive results. The opportunity has come about as a direct result of avaiable funds from the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which has earmarked $8 billion for high-speed rail. It appears that going this route would be less expensive than repairing the line AMTRAK is currently using, which takes it through Oregon City. The benefits also reportedly include projected increased ridership, increased timliness, and reduced carbon emissions. This change would replace the Oregon City stop with one in Tualatin. ODOT has decided to apply for the funds to do a 2-year Environmental Impact Study.
- The NW Natural 2009 Street of Dreams is underway, running from August 1 – 30. This year is a little different than most in that it showcases four premier condo home developments in Portland’s “Pearl District”, including nine incredible penthouses ranging in price ffrom $1 to $2.5 million. This year also focuses on LEED standard and eco-friendly building. Check it out and buy your tickets at: http://www.streetofdreamspdx.com/home/home.php
- Lake Oswego is in the middle of discussions with citizens regarding proposed “Sensitive Lands” changes. To learn more about sensitive lands & view an FAQ page on this subject, visit: http://www.ci.oswego.or.us/plan/Nature/FAQ_Handout_080609.pdf Opinions run the gamut and there is currently lively debate on all sides.
Lake Oswego Real Estate Blog