This is a series of blog posts about real estate in Salem Oregon written by Melina Tomson of Tomson Burnham, a small boutique real estate brokerage in Salem Oregon. The blog has articles about local real estate market conditions from Salem, Keizer, Independence, Monmouth, Dallas, Stayton, Aumsville and Silverton.
The blog covers topics from market conditions to happenings inside the real estate industry that might impact consumers to new technologies that are housing-related. Community information for home buyers looking to relocate to Salem is also housed in our blog as we discuss our local favorites.
Located on the West side of Salem (ie across the river in Polk County), Chatnika Heights is a combination of homes built in the 1960’s to homes built until the past decade. As a result, a wide range of architectural styles fills this neighborhood. Tri-levels, ranches, traditional two story homes, and the occasional contemporary style…
FHA has been revising its loan limits across the country, which is good news for many potential home buyers. The loan limits are different for each county in the United States depending on real estate costs. With 100% financing become very difficult, many people with excellent paying jobs, but not enough for a large down…
A box…that is what comes to my mind when I look at the American Foursquare style home. It is also known as the Prairie Box. This was a very popular style from 1895-1930. It was very economical to build since the lines are so simple and clean. The American Foursquare will have some of the…
Like many honest agents, I lose some business to other agents that make outlandish promises. “I can sell it for $1,000,000 more than any other agent.” “I’ll have multiple offers for you within 24 hours.” “I will hold an open house for you every weekend.” I always wonder why sellers often choose Pinocchio over a…
Sitting in the middle of the vineyard, I reach for my glass of excellent local Oregon Pinot Noir. Far out in the countryside, I relish the quiet solitude of the landscape…Reaching for the Brie cheese, I turn to my husband and ask for the gray poupon…well..not really, but you get the image I am going…
I was recently asked about arsenic streaks in my area. Arsenic is a natural element that occurs in soil and rocks. Most people hear the word arsenic and immediately become concerned. I work with a lot of buyers purchasing small acreage properties here in Salem, Oregon so am familiar with well testing. In Oregon, the…
“You’re going to blog about me aren’t you.” stated my client, Jill. “Yep! I’ve got a years worth of blogs in just working with you two. I’m down to about $1.50 per hour, so I have to get something out of the deal,” I replied. “Are we your worst buyers ever?” she asked. Let me…
Many new construction homes here in Salem Oregon are referred to as Craftsman. Some have elements of the Arts and Crafts movement (AKA Craftsman), but most are not Craftsman homes. When talking about Craftsman homes, most people think of the Craftsman Bungalow, but a Craftsman doesn’t have to be a bungalow and not all bungalows…
As many of you are aware, a buyer in California is suing her real estate agent for failing to help them with their due diligence on a property. She felt that she was hiring a professional and as such expected professional guidance. Whether her case is valid or not is up to courts. I know…
Well the market is down and so sellers are desperate to come up with novel ways to try and sell their homes. This has to be the most interesting way I have seen so far. These sellers are holding an essay contest, and will award the house to the winner. It costs $200 to enter.…