A year of thoughtful moves and well-executed plans – Living Room Real Estate

As the year comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on the clients, conversations, and challenges that made it so valuable. No two processes looked the same – starters, growing families, moves, renovations and retirements – but they all had a common thread: a clear goal, a smart strategy and confidence in the process. Here are a few highlights that stood out.

Webly & Brian: Vision meets opportunity in Buckman
It was a pleasure from start to finish helping Webly and Brian move from North Portland to a grand 1900’s Foursquare in Buckman. With over 3,600 square feet, high ceilings and views of the West Hills, this home had presence and potential. After a few near misses, the right opportunity presented itself and the transaction went smoothly. With Webly’s architectural eye and Brian’s shared long-term vision, this 125-year-old home found stewards perfectly suited to guide its next chapter.

Travis & Victoria: Winning in a Competitive Market
Patience wins the process, but confident terms win the deal. After many months of searching and several strong offers, Travis and Victoria were tested and ready. With comprehensive, competitive terms and stable communication between agents, we beat out nine other offers and closed in just 17 days. They are now settling into a light-filled Cedar Mill home that meets all their needs – a well-deserved victory for them and their future family.

John & Carrie: A thoughtful transition to the addition of Ladd
After retiring and moving to Portland full-time to be closer to their daughter and two grandsons, John and Carrie spent several months carefully searching for the right home in Southeast Portland. When the right house appeared just over a mile from the family, it stood out for its welcoming appearance, ideal proportions and carefully refreshed interiors, retaining original details such as fitted wardrobes, a classic dining room sideboard and beautiful chandeliers. Located in Ladd’s Addition – one of Portland’s most iconic neighborhoods, known for its off-grid streets, curved tree canopy and beautifully preserved early century homes – it made their vision of car-free living close to family a reality. To complete the transition, we then prepared, staged and sold their Belmont condo on the market in just two days.

Heather & Jeremy: a long-planned move, perfectly timed
Heather, Jeremy and I, referred by mutual friends and former clients, spent almost two years planning their move from Dallas to Portland. When the right house on the east side – a quiet gem that had been for sale for months – came into view, they immediately recognized it. With an offer below and a smooth closing later, they unlocked the door to a home that meets their current needs while providing space for multi-generational living for years to come.

Alex & Katie: Community First in Sunnyside
After years of living in Montavilla as homeowners and then in Sunnyside as renters, Alex and Katie knew exactly where they wanted to land. When a charming bungalow with an ADU stayed on the market long enough to give us room to negotiate, we leaned in. After extensive inspections and a significant seller’s credit, the keys were handed over just as fall arrived – perfectly timed for a cozy season in the neighborhood they already loved and called home.

Kelly & Ben: Strategy, patience and a well-timed return
After touring homes on the west side for several weekends, Kelly and Ben kept coming back to a house that felt right, even when the initial price was just out of reach. When a price drop opened the door, we acted quickly and consciously. We competed at a popular price point and relied on perseverance, clear communication and hard negotiations to get the house listed. With confidence in their vision and a plan that held up, everything came together just before Thanksgiving.

A final reflection
This year reminded us that real estate is not about speed, but about clarity, preparation and timing. Whether it’s competitive offers, long-distance moves, or life transitions years in the making, the best results come from a plan built around people, not just property. I am grateful for the trust my clients place in me and look forward to taking more thoughtful steps in the coming year.