House Hunting Starts Before the Search: 3 Things Every Buyer Should Know Before Touring Homes

Many buyers think the home-buying journey begins when they start scrolling through listings or scheduling showings.

In reality, the most successful home searches begin long before you ever step through the front door.

A little preparation can save you time, reduce stress, and help you make confident decisions when the right home comes along. Instead of wondering whether you've found "the one," you'll be ready to recognize it.

Here are three important things to know before you begin...

Why Summer 2026 May Offer More Buying Opportunities Than Many Buyers Realize

For the past few years, the housing market has been defined by limited inventory, bidding wars, and fierce competition. Buyers often found themselves making quick decisions, waiving contingencies, and competing against multiple offers just to secure a home.

This summer, however, the landscape is beginning to shift in many markets.

While every area is different, we're seeing signs that buyers may have more negotiating power than they've had in quite some time.

What's Changing?

Several market...

Cosmetic Fixers with Strong Potential: The Opportunity Many Buyers Overlook

When searching for a home, it's easy to focus on the properties with designer finishes, fresh updates, and picture-perfect presentation. But some of the best opportunities in today's market are the homes that need a little imagination and a few cosmetic improvements.

Many buyers quickly pass on homes that could benefit from:

• Fresh interior or exterior paint
• Updated lighting fixtures
• New flooring
• Landscaping improvements
• Minor kitchen or bathroom updates
• Better staging and...
  

Senior Downsizing: How to Simplify the Next Chapter Without Feeling Overwhelmed

For many seniors, downsizing is about more than just moving to a smaller home. It’s about simplifying life, reducing maintenance, improving accessibility, and creating a lifestyle that better fits current and future needs.

Whether you are considering a smaller home, a condo, a retirement community, assisted living, or simply decluttering to make life easier, downsizing can be one of the biggest emotional and financial transitions a person makes. The good news is that with the right plan, it can also be...

For years, open concept living dominated home design.

Walls came down, kitchens blended into living rooms, and homes were designed to feel larger, brighter, and more connected.

And while open layouts are still very popular, today’s buyers are starting to look at floor plans a little differently.

As lifestyles have changed, especially with more people working, studying, and spending time at home, buyers are placing greater importance on flexibility, functionality, and privacy.

So what do buyers really want today?

The answer is often a balance of both.

Why Open Concept...

Thinking of Relocating to Clackamas or Multnomah County? Here’s How to Choose the Right Area for Your Needs

Relocating to a new area is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming.

One of the biggest challenges isn’t just finding a home…it’s figuring out exactly where to live.

Different areas throughout Clackamas County and Multnomah County can offer completely different lifestyles. Here’s how to narrow it down and find the right fit for you.

Step 1: Get Clear on Your Priorities

Before looking at homes, define what matters most:

• Lifestyle (quiet vs. active)

The Hidden Costs No One Talks About When Buying or Selling a Home

Buying or selling a home is one of the largest financial decisions most people will ever make. Naturally, the focus tends to be on the purchase price or the final sale price—but that’s only part of the picture.

What often gets overlooked are the additional costs that can quietly add up along the way. Understanding these upfront can help you plan more effectively, avoid surprises, and move forward with confidence.

Hidden Costs for Buyers

1. Closing Costs

Many buyers are surprised to learn that closing costs...

 What Happens If You Cancel a Purchase Contract as a Buyer?

Buying a home is a significant financial and emotional decision. It’s not uncommon for buyers to move forward with a purchase, then realize along the way that it may not be the right fit.

Whether it’s due to inspections, financing concerns, or a change in circumstances, canceling a purchase contract can be the right decision—but it’s important to understand how and when it can be done.

Here’s what every buyer should know.

Can You Cancel a Purchase Contract?

The short answer is yes—but typically only under...