Featured Property

16232 Bonaire AveBonaire 002

I am super excited to introduce you to my new listing in the Lake Grove neighborhood of Lake Oswego.  Here are the stats:

Built in 1961 with a master suite addition that was added in 1985

4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, the house has a greatroom floorplan and is 1792 square feet.

This house is all on 1 level.

Now here is the highlight and most outstanding feature:  this house sits on a HUGE lot that is 75′ wide and 262′ deep.  You have space, space, and more space.  There is even a horse shoe pit.  The lot is not dividable, but rather meant to be enjoyed as a wonderful yard.  It is fully fenced.

Bonaire 018

The price of $279,900 reflects the fact that this house needs work.  It still has the original kitchen and baths.  It has been a rental for over 20 years and it is just well worn.  There are still some single-pane windows, although the gas furnace is just 10 years old.

Let me know if you have questions or would like to make an appointment to see the interior.  I’d love to show you this home.

Dianne

 

Featured Property: 6479 McDuff Ct

Kitchen and informal dining
Greatroom
Front of house
I am proud to introduce you to a new listing that I have in Lake Oswego. 5479 McDuff Ct is located in the Rivergrove area of Lake Oswego. It’s a quiet cul-de-sac location of newer homes. The lot has 8800 square feet and there is also a grassy commons area.

The house is pretty spectacular, and, in my opinion, has above average quality. It was built in 2006. The thing that really makes it stand out is the quality of the woodwork and trim. It’s one of those things that your eye picks up on subconsciously. You just know that house feels superior.

It has a greatroom floor plan, 3 bedrooms, a bonus room, and 2 1/2 baths. The master suite has a luxurious bath with jetted tub and a custom shower. It also has a fireplace and a Juliet balcony. The hall bath has access from the hallway itself, but also from both of the secondary bedrooms.

The house has 3173 square feet with gas heat, 2 gas fireplaces, central air conditioning, and central vacuum, it is just a top-notch home.

The asking price is $589,900. For an appointment to see this house, please call me at 503-803-6298.
Dianne

Featured Property: 1421 Laburnum Way

1421 Laburnum Way
I am proud to introduce my new listing at 1421 Laburnum Way.

Located in the Palisades neighborhood, this house is elegantly situated on a corner lot. The setting is stately and has a commanding grandeur amungst the trees and lawns of the surrounding houses.

Priced at $259,900, this is an exceptional value. There are 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a formal dining room and living room, a family room, and a bonus room. The house was built in 1965. It is in need of cosmetic updating, but the house has “good bones”. There are solid-core wood doors, wood windows, hardwood floors under carpets, and wonderful mill work that includes the gorgeous fireplace mantel in the living room.

If you’d like to see this house, give me a call. I am happy to make an appointment to show you the interior.
Dianne, 503-803-6298

Villa Teresa

Lakefront Living
Al Fresco Dining
Villa Teresa
One of the great side benefits of being a Realtor is having the opportunity to get inside of truly extraordinary homes. There is one house in particular that I have wanted to get into for years. When I returned to Lake Oswego 13 years ago, this house was just being built. The construction took years. Unlike most homes that are built in 4 to 6 months, this house literally took years. Now I know why.

Villa Teresa was open to Realtors during the weekly broker’s tour last Tuesday. My thanks to Joelle Lewis, the listing Realtor with RE/MAX Equity Group, for hosting the open house. And also for allowing me to share her gorgeous listing with you here on the propertyblotter.

Pictures do not begin to convey the grandeur of this house. I don’t mean grandeur as in large or huge. I mean grandeur in that you feel like you are visiting a home that is rare and exquisite. Every surface of everyroom is a work of art. From floors inlaid in artistic parterns with 7 or 8 different types of wood, to one-of-a-kind chandlers made in Italy of Murano glass. This house took so long to build because it was built by artisians using absolutely the finest materials.

The house is listed for $4,600,000. It has 5800 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 5 1/2 baths, a den, a wine cellar, and a card room. This is in addition to the livingroom, familyroom, kitchen and normal living spaces. The house is fully wired for high tech with consoles placed discretely throughout. There is a little booth off of the kitchen with a desk for going on-line and taking calls.

I have had the great good fortune of traveling in Europe and I can tell you that I have never been in a home that truly makes you feel transformed to Italy. There is even an al fresco dining terrace with spray misters for hot summer days.

Topping off this house is its waterfrontage on the coveted Northshore of Oswego Lake for maximum sun exposure.

No, actually, there is one more little item that tops off this house. It has a guest house next door that is also for sale. The guest house is faced completely in stone. It has 7500 square feet that includes an in-door swimming pool. This house was built but not finished as the home owner was relocated to another state before its completion. It is on the market for $3,400,000.

So who buys these sorts of homes? Obviously people with money. Business owners, executives, celebrities, and people who are able to afford the finest lifestyle available. The pool of buyers for homes such as these is pretty limited, so it can take awhile for a house of this nature to sell.

Here are some quick statistics:

There are currently 12 homes for sale in Lake Oswego priced at over $3,000,000.

In the last 3 years, during this terrible economy, just 3 houses priced over $3,000,000 have sold. Interestly, each one of these 3 sales had no real market exposure. 2 sold in zero days and 1 sold in just 8 days. In other words, the buyer and seller were brought together either through friendship or mutual acquaintance.

There is one house currently pending that is on the Willamette River that is pending for $4,395,000. It has 3.89 acres, 7527 square feet, 6 bedrooms, and 7 1/2 baths.

And, of course, Jantzen Island is still for sale. I have never gotten into that house. Like Villa Teresa, it is a Realtor goal of mine to see the interior. Built in 1930, the house and guest house combined have 13,500 square feet. This property is special because it sits on a private island that is actually 5 lots of one acre each. When you consider the house, guest house, and potential land value, it may actually be worth the asking price of $15,000,000. It is uncomparable to anything else around.

Perhaps wealth is not as fashionable as it has been at other times in history. But a truly magnificent home will always be a dream, and for a few, a reality.

Now here is a sobering thought. The property taxes for the Jantzen Island are $99,000 a year.

I hope you have enjoyed this little peek into the world of high-end homes. I know that I have. And I especially am happy that I finally got to see inside of Villa Teresa. Thanks Joelle.

Dianne

Featured Property

12808 Elk Rock Rd

Priced at $924,000, this home has 3980 square feet and was built in 1999.

Today’s featured property is truly unique. The line that divides Clackamas and Multnomah Counties goes right through the house. The house sits primarily in Clackamas County so it has a Lake Oswego address and the lower property taxes associated with Clackamas County. Yet, it also sits in Multnomah County and is associated with the prestigious Dunthorpe neighborhood. Probably best of all, it allows the home owner to choose between two school districts: Riverdale Schools or Lake Oswego Schools.

The home was constructed with quality and features solid-core, 6-panel doors with transom windows, extensive use of hardwood flooring, granite, travertine, and stainless steel. The kitchen has a huge cooking island and enjoys a pantry, an appliance garage, instant hot water, and a convection oven.

The master suite is on the main level and has a two-way fireplace that can be viewed from the bedroom and from the bathroom. There is a door to the side deck that has a built-in hot tub. Also in the master is a convenient second washer and dryer hook up.

There are 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and a half bath. Along with the greatroom, there is a family room and a media room. Did I mention the wine cellar? This house has just about every feature you can think of. One of the lower level bedrooms has it’s own sitting room and exterior entrance, so it would be ideal for guests or in-laws.

The house is located on a quiet, dead-end street with very little traffic. The home was custom built for the lot to take advantage of the expansive views of the Willamette River, the mountains, and the lights of the valley at night. You will enjoy watching the sea planes take off and land on the river from nearly every room in the house including the greatroom, the kitchen, the dining room, the master suite, the familyroom, and all of the other bedrooms.

To see more of this house, please click here to enjoy the virtual tour.

I am happy to arrange a viewing of the house if you have interest in seeing the property. Please call me for an appointment at 503-803-6298.

Dianne

Featured Property ~ 4840 Lamont Way

What a charming home… I just couldn’t resist sharing my new listing with y’all!

1793 SF – 3 Bd – 2 Baths –  + Detached Studio or Shop – $335,000

Nestled on a very large (.28 acres) lot, this is a very private property in one of the hotter neighborhoods in Lake Oswego. Located at the rear of low-maintenance English-Garden-Style Grounds, it offers Privacy, Comfort and Location!

About a block off of Lakeview and easy access off Bryant Rd, this remodeled cottage is very near both Waluga Jr. High School and Bryant Elementary… as well as Shops, Services, Dining, the Lake… and so much more!  It is much larger than it looks from the outside, and for a home with a mature natural setting & gorgeous tall trees, it has tons of light through the multitude of windows and skylights. Though it has lots of vinyl windows, it also boasts really nice updated wooden dual-pane ones that add to the warm feel of this home.

Check out the Newer Kitchen, Dining/Sunroom, New Carpet throughout, Generous Bedrooms, Hardwoods, French Doors, Large Bathroom w/Separate Soaking Tub & Shower upstairs, and Master on the Main Level.

There is a Detached Studio in back that also has incredible loft storage space  (It is 16′ X 20′ & not included in home’s square footage.) Use it as a Guest House, Artist Studio, Shop or Office.

This large lot & super-cute cottage is a Rare Secluded Gem – Could be the site of your future dream home down the line!  For now… Comfort, Space and Privacy in a prime location.

Come visit me Sunday when I’ll be holding it open from 2-4PM!!  (See Photos Below)


Featured Property: 16884 Summer Place

I am proud to introduce you to my new listing at 16884 Summer Place.  Located in the Summer Woods neighborhood in Lake Grove, it was built in 1995.  Summer Woods is an interesting area.  It’s in Lake Grove, so surrounded by older homes with some in-fill new construction, but this neighborhood has about 75 houses all built at the same time.  So the neighborhood itself has a much newer feel.  It is also super convenient with quick access to I-5, Hwy 217, and all sorts of shopping and dining.

This house sits on a magnificent lot with greenspace on two sides.  It’s on a dead-end lane, so there is very little traffic.  If you want quiet, privacy and a decent yard, this is one of the few newer homes that can actually boast all of these characteristics.

The house itself has been nearly all remodeled in the last few years.  I know, it’s only 15 years old to begin with.  But in 15 years styles change quite a bit.  So while the house is still relatively new, the decor, including counters, cabinets, sinks, and appliances, are all nearly brand new.  There is 2911 square feet of finished living area that includes 4 bedrooms plus a bonus room.  The kitchen has granite counters and stainless steel appliances.  The woodwork and trim is lovely with crown moldings and attention to detail.  The yard has been professionally landscaped with patio dining as well as an outdoor deck that is ideally suited for entertaining.  There are sprinklers in the yard.  And, yes, on these hot summer days there is brand new central air conditioning.

I know that Realtors sound pretty hokey when they say things like “Hurry, this one won’t last.”  But I do mean that about this house.  I follow the market and know that even in today’s economy the good ones sell quickly.  The combination of size, age, condition, and setting for this house is truly special.  And at $524,900 it is very well priced.  I honestly think this house will sell quickly.

If you’d like to make arrangements to see this house, please give me a call at 503-803-6298, or e-mail me at jdgregoire@earthlink.net .  And, as always, feel free to contact myself or Linda for any of your real estate needs.

Dianne

Featured Property: 211 Oswego Summit

Newly listed, this home should be at the top of your list if you are considering buying a condo in Lake Oswego. Priced at $229,900, it is a spacious 2 bedroom, 2 full-bath home that has been recently updated. It is immaculate with all new windows, crown moldings, and walnut floors.

This property is on the top floor and at the end of the building. So it is very, very private and very, very quiet. It is also all on one level with an elevator, so there are absolutely zero stairs. It also has an over-sized, one-car garage that is 13×20 feet. The garage is just a few steps from the elevator. So access to your condo is both easy and convenient and you are covered and out of the weather the entire time.

The rooms in this condo are large. The master bedroom is 17×12 and the living room is 21×14. The master has a huge walk-in closet and its own full bath. The living room has a wood-burning fireplace and a deck that goes the entire length of the room.

Did I mention the view? There are spectacular views of SW Portland looking towards the city as well as Mt. St. Helens. Seriously, this is a lot of value for the money without there being a gorgeous view. Then add in the fact that every single day you get to live on top of the world and you have found one great place to live.

This condo is located in Mt. Park on the Western edge of Lake Oswego. Mt. Park is one of the first planned developments in the United States. It features 15 miles of walking paths, tennis, basketball, swimming, weight rooms, exercise classes and a gorgeous rec center that can be used for meetings and receptions.

Here are some of the numbers:
Priced at $229,900
1506 square feet with 2 bedrooms and 2 baths
HOA fees are $361 a month (includes 2 pools, weight room, water, sewer, and garbage) and $207 every 6 months to Mt. Park
taxes are just $2799 per year
The condo was built in 1981 and it has recently been remodeled inside.
The complex is extremely well cared for with gorgeous landscaping and all buildings in excellent condition.

I would love to have the opportunity to show you this property in person. Do not hesitate to give me a call to make an appointment. I can be reached via phone at 503-803-6298 or via e-mail at jdgregoire@earthlink.net

Thanks for taking the time to hear about this fabulous property!
—Dianne

Amazing Deal on Luxury Townhomes in First Addition

LOSixthFrontIt isn’t often that we shine the spotlight on any particular property, but when we heard that the new luxury town homes on Sixth St in sought-after First Addition had just lowered their prices by $100,000 each to $599,900., Dianne and I just had to run over there and take a look.

There are six of these little gems with four of them left & available for purchase. The address is 363 Sixth St., and the LOKitchen 102909ML# if you want to get a preview is 9057549. Each has 2258 SF, 3 bedrooms, 3 & 1/2 baths, 2 levels with additional full finished basements, and probably just everything you’ve been looking for.

First of all, they really are gorgeous. The finishes in these are superior. The first feature you notice inside are the beautiful plank maple hardwood floors. A sleek yet spacious slab granite kitchen with long island, pantry & light beech LO DiningRm 102909cabinets also boasts additional built-ins and smart features like a pull-down bar. The dark french doors to the front porch area off the dining room are a rich contrast, and the white wainscoting throughout adds that crisp old-world cottage feel. The 2-car detached garage out back with private courtyard to the house is an added bonus in First Addition, and from there you enter the great room compete with gas fireplace and more built-ins.

LO BltIns 102909Downstairs you find another gas fireplace and generous media room as well as another bedroom & bathroom w/an additional laundry area for guests or your reclusive teenager. Upstairs is the master bedroom & bath showing off glorious travertine w/onyx, a clawfoot tub & separate shower as well as an additional bathroom w/soaker tub & yet another bedroom. Walk-in closets of course, and the main laundry near the upstairs bedrooms check those final “must-haves” off the list.

LOKitchen102909Overall, these are just so unique & have that easy-living feel that goes hand in hand with the First Addition lifestyle… you know, walking to all the services, trendy shops and restaurants, not to mention Millenium Park Plaza for a view of the lake & all the festive local activities like Farmer’s Market, open air Movie Nights, Holiday Tree-Lighting festivities and on & on. First Addition is just a strolling kinda place; a small-town feel with all the amenities. Cottage Living LOGrtRm3magazine named First Addition as one of the ten best cottage communities in the country. American Planning Association name it one of the top 10 neighborhoods in America. The accolades go on & on.

Yes, these are nice indeed. But you know, on the practical side, in addition to the location & amazing price when comparing features & finishes to other offerings, there are also NO HOA fees. Compare that with other HOA’s nearby at anywhere from $136./month to $455./mo.

LOMedia RmCome on down & take a look. Bring a Realtor as there has been a lot of interest. They will be held open both Saturday & Sunday from 1 – 4.

Summer Real Estate Tidbits

  • DucksAccording 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.