As we come through the impact of COVID-19, contactless forms of payment have become more common over the past several months and, going forward, will be important in everyday life. Contactless payment tech is easy to use and healthier than exchanging cash, making it an attractive option for consumers looking for safety and convenience at the grocery store, takeout counter or in some cases, the gas pump.
 
As this technology continues to catch on in your community, and across the world, we wanted to send you a quick guide to how it all works. The information we are sending this month explains the various forms of contactless payment and where you can use it, plus some security tips for paying with your phone. You’ll learn more about popular peer-to-peer payment apps that allow you to pay someone back without handing off cash.
 
Our society isn’t going totally cashless anytime soon, but contactless payment is proving to be a secure, cleaner option at the checkout counter. Hope this helps you out next time you’re on a grocery run!

These statistics are for the Portland, Oregon Metro Area excluding Yamhill and Columbia Counties & Mount Hood Area.

PENDING SALES
5/15 – 5/31/19                  5/15 – 5/31/20                 
        1570                                   1592                       Increase of 1.4%
 
6/01 – 6/15/19                  6/01 – 6/15/20
       1310                                   1684                       Increase of 28.5% !!           
 
The Real Estate Market is certainly starting to pick up.

You’re going to hear that Closed Sales are significantly down in the month of May, and that’s true (they are down 34% from May 2019).  BUT that is because the homes closing in May are from those that went Pending in late March and April when the COVID restrictions went into place and caused many buyers and sellers to hold back on their plans.

Days on the Market is down to 38 Days on average.
 
                                         Jan – May 2019                  Jan – May 2020
Average Sale Price           $452,700                              $465,600                              Increase of 2.8%
Median Sale Price             $402,400                              $419,000                              Increase of 4.1%
 
Many times, we are dealing with multiple offers because of the low inventory of homes for sale.

If you, or someone you know, are thinking about making a move, maybe you’ll be working from home more often and need office space, or you want the kids in a new school district, give us a call. 

We are happy to help and never too busy for your referrals!

Did you know that sleep is a huge part of any self-care routine? It’s an easy thing to overlook, especially if stress has you tossing and turning or spending late nights on Netflix. To truly reset and refocus after a difficult time, you need to physically refresh with some quality shuteye. Below is some information to help you understand how sleep works and some tips on how to adjust your routine for better night’s rest. You’ll start feeling more refreshed and re-centered in no time! 

The events of the past few months have been unparalleled. Now more than ever, it is important to stay on your A-game and keep your spirits lifted. Be sure to spend some time taking care of yourself!
 
As you continue to navigate your personal situation, we want to share some tips for focusing on your own well-being. The information we're sending this month includes ways to reset your goals and to reboot your routine so that you feel recharged and ready to support your family, friends and community. You’ll also learn a few helpful ways to practice self-care, so that your emotional wellness remains in great shape.
 
While we can’t control what happens to us, we can control how we view those situations. We hope this information helps you and your family stay strong, hopeful and encouraged as you move through your daily lives. If we can help in anyway, please do not hesitate to call!

We are releasing updates a little more regularly due to the real estate market changing so quickly in response to changing guidelines related to COVID-19.  Check out our video and notes below so see what's going on!

All Portland Metro Area

                                 April 15 – 30, 2020          May 1 – 14, 2020          May 1 – 14, 2019
New Listings                    1487                                 1349                                1457

Pending Sales                  1111                                 1212                                1281

Pending of Listings
since May 1st                    467                                    412
 
Sold                                    955                                    687
 
 
Sentrilock Activity (Showings) – Average this time of Year is 25,000
Bottom week was Week Ending 4/5/20 at 10,493

Week Ending
5/3/20                  16,540                   11.5% increase over the previous week
5/10/20                17,132                     3.6% increase over the previous week
5/17/20                18,566                     8.4% increase over the previous week
 
The one thing I’ve learned in almost 32 years in real estate is that houses are sold every day, in both good and bad markets!
 
The “Big Why” doesn’t change:

• Out growing your home
• Need a different school district
• Downsizing

 
Now is a really good time to put your home on the market, particularly if you want to move before the new school year!
 
Stay Well and Stay Healthy!

​Social distancing doesn’t have to pause your social interaction! Fortunately, the digital world has made it easier than ever to stay connected with friends and family from afar. In the eReport below, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan the perfect online gathering. Learn what video platforms to use, how to send invites and even ways to play games or watch movies at the same time — but not in the same place. Enjoy! 

Below are the latest Real Estate market statistics for Portland and the Surrounding Areas for the full month of April 2020.  Click on the image below to see the full seven page detailed report.

Recently, we have been receiving much information regarding COVID-19.  As we continue to navigate uncertainty together, it is important to remember that THIS TOO SHALL PASS. That’s why this month, we want to share information to help you prepare for life after these trying times.
 
Credit is one subject that will always be important, which is why this Item of Value is helping separate credit facts from fiction. No matter what your current financial situation is, you can use this information to become a credit master and strengthen your own score down the line.

There is also a breakdown of the different scoring models to highlight habits that will help you achieve credit success.
Even though the world seems to be on pause right now, the situation will pass. When it does, you will be ready to view your credit situation with fresh eyes and come out stronger, no matter where you started. In the meantime, please know that we are here for you and your family during these challenging times. If there’s anything we can do to help, do not hesitate to call. Stay healthy!