The Many Benefits of ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units)

by Lucas Gray, co-founder & designer at Propel Studio Architecture Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs, are secondary homes that can be built on any residential property in Portland and many of the surrounding communities. As housing costs continue to rise, many neighbors search for affordable housing for themselves or loved ones. ADUs can provide wonderful …

Interest rates and closing costs

These two items are a big part of why we started Portland Loan Team. By eliminating staff and other fixed costs, we are able to offer much better rates and lower costs to our clients. These items also represent a large percentage of the questions we get asked about most often. Interest rates: Average 30 year fixed …

Is a debt consolidation refinance right for you?

Debt consolidation is more attractive now than it has been for many years. There are two factors creating this favorable environment. 1) Interest rates are at the lowest levels we’ve seen since Trump won the election in November 2016. Here’s a graph of rates over the past two years: Source: https://ycharts.com/indicators/30_year_mortgage_rate 2) Housing values have …

Start planning your neighborhood block party!

Spring's here, and that means summer’s right around the corner. Throwing a block party is a great excuse to get to know those neighbors who you only see traveling to and from work or taking out the trash. There are a few bureaucratic hoops to jump through with the city, but throwing your own block …

Resolve to keep your family and home healthy in 2019

Did your 2019 resolutions include getting healthy—physically and financially?  Fix-It Fairs are FREE City of Portland events designed to help you reach those goals. The events occur between November and February at various locations around Portland, 9:30AM - 2:30PM. Ongoing exhibits and hourly workshops cover topics such as: Water and energy savings Safe and healthy home …

What is a reverse mortgage?

A reverse mortgage** is a strictly regulated and insured Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan specifically designed for seniors. A reverse mortgage allows homeowners who are at least 62 or older to access the equity in their home. Unlike a traditional mortgage or home equity loan, a reverse mortgage does not have to be repaid until …

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Interest Rates

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meets eight times per year to determine increases and decreases in the target Federal Funds Rate. The current target is 1.75% to 2.00%. The FOMC regulates this rate by controlling the amount of currency available in the US economy. The more money available in the marketplace, the faster the …

Are we in a housing bubble?

Market conditions suggest that Portland is better positioned than other major cities on the West Coast. As you can see, Portland is still the least expensive major market on the West Coast. And the Home Affordability Index (HAI)—calculated by the National Association of Realtors (NAR)— is also lower than any city besides Sacramento. A value …