"Wes"'s Blog

Change of Brokerage

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 20:29:03 -0500

Just wanted to let all my friends here know that after 19 plus years of working for brokers, I have struck out on my own. If you have clients relocating to or from Portland Oregon and need an agent to refer them to - I would appreciate you consideration. Alphabet soup behind my name includes NAR,ABR,CRS,GRI - Serving the Metropolitan Portland area on the Oregon side of the River. Need a referral to Vancouver Washington? I will be happy to assist you.

"Wes" Has Three Properties Closing In the Next Seven Days!

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 17:17:41 -0500

And Portland is a transitioning market with more listings and fewer pending sales than a year ago.

So how does "Wes" get these results? By explaining to prospective Sellers - that it is a transitioning market and this is not the time to test the market if they want to sell.

Next only accepting listings where the Seller wants and needs to sell.

And finally getting the Seller to committ to regular price adjustments if offers are not received on the property within a mutually agreed upon time period.

So if you have property in the Portland Oregon metro area that you truly want and need to sell - call "Wes" - the realtor that can guide you through this transitioning market.

Your property needs to be correctly priced for its condition to sell in this market.

May 2007 Portland Oregon Market Action

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 16:32:38 -0500

May Residential Highlights

Market Activity in the Portland Metro Area appears to have cooled when comparing May 2007 to May 2006. While new listings continue to grow, the market experienced a decline in both closed and pending sales transactions. The number of new listings in the market continued its growth trend, increasing 4.8% over last May's total. On the other hand, the total amount of closed sales dropped 8.3% (2,802 v. 3,054), while pending sales dropped 16.4% (3,054 v. 3,651).

The average sale price reached a record high of $348,800. This is likely the result of increased high end home sales, which included five homes that sold for $2 million or more. The 12,486 active residential listings at the end of May would last approximately 4.5 months at the month's rate of sales

Year-To-Date Trends

New l i s t ings have grown considerably when comparing market activity for January-May 2007 to the same period of time in 2006. In that time, new listings ha v e inc r e a s ed 1 5 . 8%. On the other hand, pending sales and closed sales have declined 8% and 5% respectively.

Appreciation

Using the average and median sale prices for the twelve months tha t ended wi th May 2007 compared to the twelve months ending in May 2006, the average sale price appreciated 10.1% ($331,600 v. $301,300). Using the same formula, the median sale price appreciated 10.6% ($279,900 v. $253,000).

Observations

Since both average and median price data is based on 12 month moving averages, I believe we can expect to see a continuing decline in the rate of appreciation. Interest rates are anybody's call at this point - but if they trend up, we will probably see further inventory build and a continued move towards a more balanced market at 5 to 6 months of inventory.

This is not a doom and gloom forecast, but an opportunity for investors and buyers to work with agressive Buyer Agents to acquire property.

The Best Condo in Downtown Portland for the Price - $429,000

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 17:51:48 -0500

This condo in Portland's fareless square has been remodeled extensively. From hardwood floors throughout except for the tile floors in the baths - to rich cherry cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. This is 1497 square feet of superb living with views of Mt. Hood, the Williamette River and the Tram.

American Plaza amenities include two swimming pools, and exercise and weight room. club room, and plenty of guest parking.

Your will be just two blocks from the Trolley and fareless square to take you downtown for the theater, opera, ballet, symphony, jazz, and restaurants - or slip on over to NW 23rd.

At this price there is real value - less than $287/ square foot when comparable homes in The Pearl and River Front are going for much more than $300 per square foot. The Seller's are offering their home at this price because they want to move now. Buy it now to gain some possible instant equity.

Call W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, RE/MAX Equity Group, Inc. 503-245-6400 ext 5419 for more information.

Here is a phot of that gourmet kitchen to tease you!

An Outlook on Happiness

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 09:55:45 -0500

FOR THE WEEK BEGINNING JUNE 11, 2007

Each weekly edition of GHOST STORIES is a short read beginning with a quote that inspires the ideas expressed in the column. Feel free to share our stories with friends and colleagues!

INSPIRATION FOR TODAY:
"My goal is not to be happy. My goal is to have a full, satisfying life."
~ Pierce Howard, author of "The Owner's Manual for the Brain"

GO WITH THE FLOW!

Ice cream or cake? A new car or a trip to Europe? Take a new job or stay put? All of our choices are rooted in the desire to become happy, but there's always the possibility that our choices could be wrong.

Maybe that's because happiness is more of a personality trait than a goal to set oneself. Consider that last year Americans spent $750 million on self-help books and $1 billion on motivational speakers. All that money invested, but what has been the return?

Money does not buy happiness, except for those lacking the basics. Once you've got what you really need, you'll never really get everything that you want. The trick is altering your approach to what you want. Imagining possible futures of happily-ever-afters or endless gloom won't get you anywhere. Neither joy nor despair last forever, and there's no one answer to encourage or prevent one or the other.

So where does that leave us if winning the lottery doesn't guarantee bliss? Instead of happiness, we could aim for what Pierce Howard calls "flow." Find an everyday joy, like cooking, reading, painting, whatever. When that activity engrosses you to the point where you forget where you are or what time it is, then you're in the flow.

When you're in the flow, you actually stop worrying about being happy. Remember that happiness is not a goal - it's a personality trait. Making happiness your goal may only encourage frustration. True happiness flourishes with family and other close relationships, which are not always perfect, but do lead to what Howard calls a "full, satisfying life."

So forget about lottery tickets and instead pick up a book, a brush, a telephone. Reach out or reach in, and seize the day. Become a happy person by forgetting about becoming happy!

This is copywrited materials, but Ghostwriters has given permission to share it with friends and colleagues.

Enjoy,

Wes

Print the Ghost Stories Newsletter!

Ghost Writers * 915 Bobcat Mountain Road * Purlear, NC 28665

To unsubscribe or change subscriber options visit:
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Since January, 134 mortgage companies have gone out of business.

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 11:15:44 -0500

Our Oregon legislators are about to run amuck again - please contact your representative and senator and plead with them to kill Senate Bill 965

Regarding Oregon Senate Bill 965:

Here's an interesting article from the Oregonian. The Bill is receiving some criticism. However, it's been slanted to look like it's only coming from the mortgage lending community. Read it HERE.

I have also attached another brief commentary. It is very important that the lawmakers hear from folks outside of the lending industry. This Bill will have very real consequences for the housing market as a whole if it passes in it's current form. It will remove many viable loan options that buyers need. If you have other questions, please come talk with me.

Here are some "talking points" of what is contained in the Bill. If you'd like, I can provide you with a copy of the Bill in its entirety.

1. SB 965 has good intentions but unfortunately, this bill fails to focus on protection of Oregon consumers from "Predatory High Cost Home Loans", as originally intended. Instead the bill focuses on prime loan products that either the guidelines or DCBS classify as "non-traditional". As to subprime, the financial markets have already corrected to remove overly aggressive loan products or layering of risks from the marketplace. Gone are the $0 down, stated income loans to the fixed income borrower with marginal credit. Firms offering such loans are out of business, and the agencies that set underwriting guidelines for both the prime and subprime markets have made and are continuing to make conservative adjustments to lending standards.

2. SB 965 will force many small mortgage brokerage firms out of business, by eliminating the availability of or increasing the costs of state required insurance and bonding. SB 965 gives the Division ultimate authority over what underwriting guidelines are deemed acceptable vs. the actual lender/investors that fund, securitize, and service these loans. In both cases, these are decisions for which the mortgage broker and small mortgage banker has no control. They don't make the products, or the guidelines, or perform the underwriting. Moreover, SB 965 provides potentially severe penalties for violations of the arbitrary decisions of DCBS auditors, in reviewing the underwriting of individual loans. The potential risks that insurance underwriters will be concerned with include a private right of action on any loan going back as much as three years and the uncertainty that any loans originated in Oregon by lenders or brokers (other than exempted Banks and Credit Unions) may or may not be subject to future claims. The insurance and bonding companies that extend these specialized products to the mortgage industry see significantly higher risks associated with this bill and have already notified some firms of actions including: much higher premiums, higher net worth requirements, and outright withdrawal of the availability of policies within the State of Oregon. Without insurance and bonding coverage, firms may be forced to close, due to either statutory requirements or their inability or unwillingness to bear excessive risks.

3. This bill will have negative, unintended consequences in the conventional or "Prime" mortgage markets. It will limit access to quality credit products and increase rates for those Oregon consumers this bill is specifically trying to protect. Minorities, inner city, rural, elderly, and/or less educated consumers need the product availability and personal service that the mortgage broker provides. No banker is going to visit consumers at their home on a weekend, and be able to provide product and pricing options from multiple lending sources. Bank rates to consumers are already generally higher than those of brokers, who shop for the best rates for their borrowers from a wide range of lenders. Reduced competition is likely to send those rates even higher.

4. Limiting the prepayment penalties to 1 year on all loans will raise interest rates to the Oregon consumers this bill is trying to protect. 90% of all prepayment penalties are on sub-prime loans. Most sub-prime loans are designed as short term solutions allowing borrowers to access credit in times of great financial need. They use those loans and some time (normally two years) to restore their financial condition and credit so that they can ultimately refinance or purchase using prime loans. Raising the rates on those sub-prime loans to account for the shorter prepay penalty will increase the cost to the consumer during that critical time. The estimated rate increase for a 1 year vs. a standard 2-3 year prepay penalty on a typical sub-prime loan is .75% to 1.00% in rate. That is an additional $150 per month "penalty" forced on Oregon consumers on a $200,000 mortgage.

5. SB 965 puts the Division in the very dangerous business of setting underwriting guidelines for the industry. It is the job of the regulator to see that loans are done within the framework of regulatory compliance, focusing on disclosures to consumers and adherence to federal and state laws. It is the job of the lender to make underwriting decisions on individual loans.

To locate legislators' email addresses and phone numbers, go online to http://www.leg.state.or.us/ and click on "find your legislator". Input your home and/or business address and it will give you the names, email addresses and phone numbers of your lawmakers.

Quit Wasting Paper With This Program!

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 17:21:23 -0500

Ever so often my printer takes a fit and prints pages with one or two lines that belong on the previous page - on a separate page.

Now there is finally a solution to this problem that is inexpensive and really a great idea. In addition for the same price, it allows you to print, or email any file as a pdf file. In the printing process, this program lets you preview the pages, and eliminate any you do not want to print. Also if you just want a record of the text, you can eliminate the images - save that color ink.

The news gets even better - there a 60 day free trial for the Home version of GreenPrint.

For more information go to http://printgreener.com/

I have no personal interest in this product, though the developer is a client of another REALTOR® in my office.

It is just such a great idea, I needed to share it. Try it out, I think you will agree.

Are yo having fun with Vista?

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Sun, 03 Jun 2007 16:20:18 -0500

Been remiss in posting the past week. Had my laptop die on me so have been going through the fun of setting up a new one. Fortunately all my databases were backed up, but still had the joy of re-installing all my programs.

Oh yes, also having the fun of learning about Vista now - not point in buying a new laptop and putting an older operating system on it. Actually everything went pretty smoothly - updated drivers were available for both my printers.

Do have one program that is not working yet, but that is because it has not been updated for Vista. - Patch is due within the month - by that time I should be an "expert" on Vista - they have made just enough changes in the interfaces to keep your life interesting.

If you are going through this, let exchange war stories. For instance have you discovered how to activate the "run" command?

AgentOffice From FNIS and Vista

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 00:28:35 -0500

Anyone have any luck getting this program to run on VISTA - are you aware of any work arounds.

Thank yo, Wes

Why Your Real Estate Agent Should Go On Broker's Tour

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Wed, 23 May 2007 14:58:25 -0500

When I first started in real estate in the late 80's, real estate agents would tour properties on Broker Open day. Lately not nearly as many are touring and I feel they are short changing themselves as well as their clients.

Sure, they say look at the homes on the internet, but that is not a way to really get a feel for the floor plan and the neighborhood. Either spinning virtual tours make you dizzy and/or less desirable aspects of the neighborhood are not shown.

This REALTOR® feels to really service buyers and seller, you must tour. Only by doing this can you get the feel for a neighborhood and the quality of the finishes used in a house. This knowledge is necessary to correctly price a property for a seller, and to be able to assist a buyer in arriving at a fair offering price.

By touring quickly and knowing what key items you are looking for it is possible to tour 15 or sometimes as many as 20 homes on broker's open day. Over the period of a month you develop a lot better feel for how the market is moving - than a real estate agent that does not tour. An added benefit is the chance to network with listing agents that actually host their opens - I may just discover that pocket listing that will exactly meet my buyer's needs.

For Real Estate Experiences Exceeding Your Expectations choose W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker as your REALTOR®.

Keep Those Home Improvement Receipts!

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Mon, 21 May 2007 18:13:33 -0500

There has been some bad advice going around out there that you don't need to keep your receipts for home improvements. True you do not have to have them for tax purposes -

But keeping them may be to your advantage. The current exclusion from Federal income tax for a gain on the sale of a home is $250,000 if you are single, and $500,000 if are married and filing a joint return.

For instance, suppose you paid $88,500 for a little 2 bedroom home in West Linn on a 100' x 100' lot in the early 90's. In todays market that home may well sell for $350,000, or a gain of $261,500. For example purposes, we will ignore selling costs - so if you are single, after deducting the $250,000 exclusion you have a taxable gain of $11,500.

On the other hand, if you had home improvement receipts for $11,500 or more you would have no taxable gain.

You might say, I am never going to live in a house long enough to realize that much appreciation - and you may be right. But is does not cost much to have an envelop in your home office center to keep those home improvement receipts. Hang on to them until you sell the property - they may just save you some tax money.

Since I gave up my tax preparer's license some years ago, of course, I always recommend that you check with your tax preparer.

Reason To Live In West Linn Oregon

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Sat, 19 May 2007 16:14:12 -0500

•1. Excellent Schools

•2. Lots of City Parks

•3. Good Public Library

•4. A Weekday and evening Farmers Market

•5. Access to fishing and boating on the Willamette River

•6. Mini-shopping areas close to all parts of town

•7. Easy access to major shopping malls

•8. Interesting local shops, restaurants, and boutiques

•9. Peacefulness of suburban living with easy access to downtown Portland

•10. Public transportation, freeway, and airport accessibility

Feel free to add your reasons for living in West Linn in the comments.

One of My Favorite Spots for a Donut!

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Fri, 18 May 2007 12:19:27 -0500

Said I would include some of my bakery weaknesses from time to time. Here is a great place to get a cake donut with chocolate icing - my favorite. The donut is moist with the batter having a slight sweet flavor, unlike the cardboard taste available at some of the chain bakeries.

Stop by Donut Day - 18295 Tualatin Valley Highway in Beaverton. It is one of my favorite stopping points when I am going to listings at points West like the one I currently have at 1823 SE Spruce St in Hillsboro.

This is a great buy at $257,500 for a 3 bedroom 2 bath ranch on a corner lot. Great hardwoods throught out most of the home and all of the windows in the living spaced have been upgraded to vinyl double pane.

Here is the link for more information:

http://equitygroup.com/mls=7039517

Note investors, this would be a good one to consider since it is close to the various Intel campuses.

Portland Housing Market Update

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Thu, 17 May 2007 11:18:27 -0500

While the local RMLS appreciation data indicates the Portland Metro market appreciation rate at the end of April is 11.1% - this figure can be somewhat misleading.

This figure is a comparison of 12 month moving average prices for the periods of May 2006 through April 2007 compared to the 12 month moving average prices for the periods of May 2005 through April 2006. This tends to discount the appreciation rate in the more recent months.

By using trends for the last twelve months that do not reflect current market conditions, listing price are being set too high for the current market. A seller can no longer look at what a neighbor's home sold for last year and mark his up 10-15%.

PSU Center for Real Estate data indicates the appreciation rate was 0.1% for 3^rd Quarter to 4^th Quarter 2006 - Still positive for the Portland Metro Market, but barely.

The Portland market saw strong appreciation in the first three quarters of 2006, but was essentially flat in the 4^th quarter. If you look at the RMLS date , excluding Vancouver, the median price of a detached existing home (excludes condos and row houses) increased 6.9% in the 1^st Quarter 2007 compared to 4^th Quarter 2006 for Portland. New homes declined 0.3% for the same period.

Data varies for the various suburban communities and this serves to underscore why you need a seasoned REALTOR® to assist you in interpreting the market data for your neighborhood.

Portland Metro Market Action - April 2007 Report

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Tue, 15 May 2007 16:05:57 -0500

Portland Metro Market Action - April 2007

Affordability
For the second time since RMLS^TM began recording Affordability in June 1994, a family earning the Portland area's median income ($63,800 per HUD) made slightly less (95% based on a formula from NAR) than needed to purchase the median priced home in March 2007 ($286,200). This is a new low, the previous was 97% in June 2006.

This is not cause for concern, unless your are a Seller that is over pricing your property based on last years market trend. The appreciation rate compared to a year ago continues to decline, and in my opinion will continue to do so for the balance of this year. The message is, if you want to sell, price it right, - if it still does not sell, adjust your price for changing market conditions.

Buyers need to carefully comp the home they are considering to recent sales in the neighborhood and the market trend. There is a lot of data, some of it questionable, on the internet. Wes can help you interpret that data to make an informed decision.

If you would like to view the data from the 16 page report through April 2007, send "Wes' an email at:

wes-sanders@ msn.com with the subject - May newsletter and the the newsletter containing the link to the full report will be sent to you.

Tired of Paying $1.50 per call for telephone information?

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Mon, 14 May 2007 16:05:12 -0500

There are other ways than calling 411 and they are free!

Dial 1-800-373-3411 for free telephone information. You will have to listen to a 20 second commercial - but that works out to saving $4.50 per minute or $270.00 per hour - not bad for dialing a few extra digits.
Or you can get the same information on your cell phone - instead of dialing a number type in G-O-O-G-L-E or the number 4-6-6-4-5-3, then enter your question in the text box - I tried this out for my main office number and in less than two minutes, the information was in my inbox.
Or if you want voice information from any phone, try this experimental service from GOOGLE. It is not available for all areas yet, but it is an easy number to remember : 1-800-GOOG-411 (1-800-466-4411). You can search for local business by voice and get connected to the business free of charge. Or get the information by SMS if you are using your mobile phone. Just say "text message."

This last service is currently only available in English and in the United States but Google is working to expand it. Regular phone or mobile phone charges will apply but there is no $1.50 charge for information.

Remember if it is real estate information your need call

W. E. "Wes" Sanders at 503-495-5419. That is free too.

Search For Your Portland Metro Home By Neighborhood

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Fri, 11 May 2007 22:40:58 -0500

Now you can just click on a map of the Portland Metro area and select the neighborhood where you would like to live.

Select multiple neighborhoods
Select your price range
Select the number of bedrooms and baths.

Each day you will receive a map and list of the new listings, and price changes too, for homes in your family's favorite neighborhoods.

Watch the market and be advised when one of your favorite homes goes pending and closes.

Want to see a home? With a click of the mouse you can send an email to "Wes" to arrange a showing or if you are really in a hurry just give "Wes" a call.

Most other search programs require you search by zip code - too large an area perhaps, or by Thomas Guide co-ordinates, which is great if you have a Thomas Guide - Simply your search today and go to:

http://metropdxhomequest.com/

and when you are ready call

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker

Real Estate Experiences Exceeding Your Expectations!

Moving Cartons - Portland Metro Ara

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Fri, 11 May 2007 10:24:39 -0500

So you are moving and running short of cartons, your friends have given all they have, other movers have beat you to the free cartons on CraigsList, and you don't want to pay the prices for new cartons at the moving and storage companies.

Then check out this website: http://www.cartonserviceonline.com/

They have both new and used cartons at reasonable prices. I prefer their 1.5 cubic yard carton which holds a good bit, but can still be picked up by one person. I won't quote prices here, but check out the website or give them a call and I think you will be pleasantly surpised when you compare to the prices that some of the other companies are asking.

Hillsboro Oregon Starter Home - $257,500 for sale

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Thu, 10 May 2007 13:49:36 -0500

Three bedroom two bath home on large corner lot, with hardwood floors and fireplace. Newer gas forced air furnace with high efficiency multi-speed blower. Built in 1962 but has been updated with double paned vinyl windows throughout the living spaces. Has an irrigation well for the garden and the landscaping so this home has it all.

Visit http://equitygroup.com/mls=7039517 for more details, then call your real estate agent or "Wes" for a private showing.

Buying Tactics in Changing Markets.

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Wed, 09 May 2007 16:16:44 -0500

Buying Tactics in Changing Markets

Over the last three decades, the real estate industry has seen unprecedented growth and profitability. Rates of home appreciation have been on a steady incline, resulting in many highly competitive housing markets. In many areas throughout the country, prospective homebuyers have been obliged to spend more, settle for less, or risk losing out on the housing hunt altogether.

Gradually, the market is beginning to show signs of changing. While certain areas remain highly active, national benchmarks such as rate of appreciation, average days on market and housing inventory indicate that real estate overall is edging towards a more balanced landscape. Homebuyers savvy enough to match their approach to the realities of today's market are more likely to find success.

Gauge Your Market Carefully

Identifying whether your market is "hot" or "cooling" is crucial when planning your home buying strategy. To do so, you must first properly define what your buying market is. In real estate, market is defined not only by geographical area but also by things like target price range and property type. For example, sales of high end single family homes in your most coveted neighborhood might be at a standstill while condo sales may be at an all time high.

With your market established, begin researching recent conditions. Are properties selling fast, or are they lingering on the market for months at a time? Are listings selling above, at, or below asking price? How often are buyers receiving multiple bids? How common are price reductions? How do local trends in the lat month or two compare to trends in the six months previous? Often the best way to get a read on such factors is with a professionally prepared Comparative Market Analysis.

Things to Avoid

If your market is in fact showing signs of softening, don't count on future appreciation when making an offer on a home. In hot markets many buyers overpay based on the theory that rapid appreciation will soon cover the additional investment, but this is an inadvisable tactic if appreciation rates are slowing. By the same token, future increase in a home's value should not be counted on to cover the cost of necessary repairs.

One common buyer's tactic in hot markets is to waive the home inspection as means of sweetening the deal for the seller. This kind of buyer risk is unnecessary in balanced markets. Another popular strategy, the use of "no cost" mortgages (mortgages that defer up-front costs at the expense of higher interest rates), is also inadvisable. With interest rates edging slightly higher than in the past, there is generally more advantage in paying the "points" now rather than adding on to the mortgage interest rate, particularly if you're buying for the long term.

Home Search Tactics

Watch Older Listings - Homes that have lingered on the market for months can indicate sellers who are beginning to feel nervous. As a result, you may be able to find a home for less or afford a larger home than you thought possible if you keep an eye on "old" properties. Consider making an offer below listing offer on a home that has been on the market for sometime. A beleaguered seller may be more than willing to negotiate.

Look for Price Reductions - Buyers tend to instinctively focus on listings new to the marketplace, ignoring changes in previous listings. This is a mistake in high inventory, slowing markets as price reductions tend to be much more common. Pay attention to desirable homes that may be "just" outside of your price range - they may drop in price and fall right into your lap.

Negotiating

The true shift in power in a more balanced marketplace will be felt in the negotiation process. While previous years have been marked by the multiple offer bidding war, more reasonable markets are characterized by rounds of offers and counteroffers. Two things to consider:

Remain Patient with Sellers - Many sellers may resist the notion that the market is any less favorable to their position. If an offer you've made on a property is rejected, do not assume that you must make a higher offer to avoid losing the property. If given time, the seller may realize that the offer you've made is very reasonable given the current status of the market.

React to Counteroffers - Counteroffers, even if substantially higher than your original offer, indicate a seller's willingness to negotiate. In slower markets buyers should feel more free to respond to counter offers with figures just above or even identical to the original offer made.

Maximize That Tax Deduction When You Downsize or Move!

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Mon, 07 May 2007 13:39:58 -0500

Recently the IRS has tightened up on the document requirements for charitable contributions of personal property. Quite often when we move, there are a lot of things that we do not want to take with us - so it is the ideal situation for a charitable contribution.

One of my clients has a business that can help you maximize that tax deducion:

Did you know . . .

· Most taxpayers undervalue non-cash donations by up to 90%?

· To claim deductions over $500 you need time consuming documentation?

· Those 3 bags of good clothes you claimed for $75 might be worth over $750.

· The 5 boxes of books, CDs, DVDs, and video games you thought were worth $100 might be worth over $500.

· The garage sale you spent 2 days preparing for and 2 days hosting generated $300 - but you might have received a tax deduction worth $2500 or more without all the fuss!

Easy Convenient Surprisingly Rewarding!

DoughNation offers great reasons for people to give the good things they no longer use to the local community.

Since 2002, DoughNation has delivered over $500,000 worth of quality clothing and household goods to Portland and Vancouver nonprofits while generating tax savings of 2 to 3 times the cost of service for its clients !

Visit the website: http://doughnationservices.com/ for more information.

The Vial of Life Project

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Mon, 07 May 2007 11:06:47 -0500

If you are elderly are have special medical conditions, or have a friend or relative in such circumstances. You should be aware of the VIAL OF LIFE Project.

Emergency medical technicians throughout the United States have been trained to look in the patient's refrigerator for a vial containing the following information:

details on prescriptions taken
vital documents such as living wills and do-not-resuscitate orders

Creating a vial can be as easy as taking an old prescription bottle and labeling it in red lettter "VIAL OF LIFE", inserting the information, and placing it in the refrigerator.

You might also want to put a magnetic note on the door of the refrigerator indicating there is a "vial of life" inside.

For more information you can go to: http://www.vialoflife.com/ to register and recive a complete information kit at not charge

It's Farmer's Market Time Again in the Portland Metro Area!

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Fri, 04 May 2007 12:45:45 -0500

Local, Fresh, and Delicious!

It's once again that time of the year where fresh fruit and vegetables direct from local farmers will be available to you in your neighborhood!

I hope you find this Farmers' Market guide useful as you plan your visit to your neighborhood market, or try visiting some new markets this year!

For additional information regarding any of the Portland Area Farmers' Markets, visit http://www.oregonfarmersmarkets.org/. My favorite is the Hillsdale Market on Sundays which is directly across from my office. Feel free to use our parking lot - and stop in and say Hi, if I am around

As always, if I can be of any assistance with your real estate needs, please don't hesitate to give me a call!

Market: Location: Hours: Season*:

Alberta NE 15th & Alberta Sat. 10am-2pm May - Sept.

Beaverton Hall Blvd. (between 3rd/5th St) Wed. 10am - 2pm June - Aug.

Beaverton Hall Blvd. (between 3rd/5th St) Sat. 8am - 1:30pm May - Oct.

Canby 1st Ave. & Holly Sat. 9am - 1pm May - Oct.

Forest Grove 21st Ave (between College/Main) Wed. 4pm - 8pm May - Oct.

Gresham Miller St. (between 2nd & 3rd St.) Sat. 8:30am - 2pm May - Oct.

Hillsboro Courthouse Sq. (2nd & East Main) Sat. 8am - 1:30pm May - Dec.

Hillsboro Main St (between 1st/3rd Ave) Tues. 5pm - 8:30pm June - Aug.

Hillsboro NW Cornell Rd & Orenco Stat. Sun. 10am - 2pm May - Oct.

Hillsdale Wilson HS & Rieke Elem. Sun. 10am - 2pm May - Oct.

Hollywood NE Hancock (between 44th/45th) Sat. 8am - 1pm May - Oct.

Lake Oswego Millennium Park Sat. 8:30am - 1:30pm May - Oct.

Milwaukie SE Main (between Harrison/Jackson) Sun. 9:30am - 2pm May - Oct.

Moreland Glenwood & Milwaukie Blvd. Wed. 3:30pm - 7:30pm May - Oct.

Oregon City 2051 Kaen Rd (At Beavercreek) Sat. 9am - 2pm May - Oct.

People's Mrkt 3029 SE 21st (SE Portland) Wed. 2pm - 7pm Year-round

Downtown (PDX) South Park Blocks Wed. 10am - 2pm May - Oct.

Eastbank (PDX) SE 20th & Salmon Thurs. 3:30pm - 7:30pm June - Sept.

EcoTrust (PDX) NW 10th (between Irving/Johnson) Thurs. 3:30pm - 7:30pm June - Sept.

Tigard 10125 Washington Sq. Rd. Sun. 9am - 2pm May - Oct.

West Linn Willamette Falls Dr. (10th/14th) Wed. 3pm - 8:30pm May - Oct.

*Seasonal dates are approximate. Check with www.oregonfarmersmarkets.org for more detailed information.

Courtesy of: W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker-RE/MAX Equity Group, Inc and Ticor Title

6245 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland, OR 97239 503-495-5419 Direct Line

Will You Give Your Kids A Chance?

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Wed, 02 May 2007 09:24:22 -0500

Will You Give Your Kids A Chance?

(Five Facts You Need To Know)

Fact # 1: The "Have's" and the "Have Nots"

The gap between the rich and poor is growing rapidly across the United States. In 1994, for the first time since such records were kept, the richest 20% of US households received a greater share of national income than the middle three-fifths combined. The bottom 40% were worse off in inflation-adjusted terms in 1993 than similarly situated people two decades earlier. (Source: US Department of Labor)

Fact # 2: A College Education is the Difference

Earnings of full-time workers who have a college degree continue to accelerate faster than those with just a high school diploma. In 1979, the average college graduate earned 49% more a year on an average than a worker with only a high school diploma. BY 1994, the earnings gap had widened to 89%. Each year of formal schooling after high school adds 5% to 15% to annual earnings later in life. (Source: US Department of Labor)

Fact # 3: College Costs Are High And Rising

Today, the minimum per year cost for a student attending a 4-year, in-state university is about $10,000 per year. This cost includes in-state tuition, books, room and board. It now takes an average of 5 years to graduate. Only about 40% graduate in 4 years. Here are the minimum costs of a college education based on 5 years to graduate and college costs rising at 5% per year.

Now	Future 5 Years	Future 10 years	Future 15 Years
$50,000	$63,814	$81,445	$103,946

Fact # 4: You Have Four Choices

1. Pay college costs out of ordinary income. (Add 25% to 30% to cost for taxes)

2. Kids work to pay part of costs. (Kids take longer to graduate, higher drop-out rate)

3. Student Loans. (College graduate starts out in life deeply in dept)

4. Pay college costs out of assets. (Buy a rental property that will be free and clear)

Fact # 5: The Easiest Way To Pay For A College Education Is By Buying A Rental Property With A 15 Year Loan.

Here's the equity created in a $125,000 rental property with a 20% down payment

Equity Now	Equity in 5 Years	Equity in 10 Years	Equity in 15 Years
* $25,000	* $45,557	* $77,003	* $125,000
** $25,000	** $80,112	** $155,614	** $259,866
*Assumes no increase in property value		**Assumes 5% per year appreciation

created in a $125,000 rental property with a 20% down payment

Equity Now Equity in 5 Years Equity in 10 Years Equity in 15 Years

* $25,000 $45,557 $77,003 $125,000

**$25,000 $80,112 $155,614 $259,866

* Assumes no increase in property value. ** Assumes 5% per year appreciation

Fun Weekend - Plus a new listing

W. E. "Wes" Sanders, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI (Wes Sanders Realty) — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 10:20:50 -0500

Made the round trip from Portland to Seattle this weekend to visit my sister and brother-in-law. They flew in to take a ten day Alaskan cruise - wish it was me. Had a fun visit, and it was also a bus man's holiday since my sister is a realtor with Long and Foster in Westminster, Maryland. We had time to explore Pike Street Market and grab a bit of lunch before I took them back to their hotel to collapse - they had been up since 4 AM EDT.

New Listing - goes into RMLS tomorrow!

This is a superb starter home on a corner lot that is about 1/5 acre. Three bedrooms two baths. Only $257,500 for 1479 SF of living space. Built in 1962, but has been updated with double paned vinyl windows, Category 5E wiring, a newer forced air gas furnace with a high efficiency multi-speed blower. There are hardwood floors throughout. This home is located at 1823 SE Spruce, in Hillsboro, near the Esplanade Shopping Center. Give me a call if you would like to take a look or if you want more information. This home would make a great investment property too.