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And in partnership with Pat Weiss*
Portland Real Estate Update

January, 2025 Update

Over 70 Years Combined Experience, Since 1988

Portland Market as of December, 2024 Year End

This image is a snapshot showing what the Portland metro real estate market is like as of the end of December, 2024. Remember though this price is for all property types, including condos so detached homes are higher. Interest rates have dropped a bit again and we hope things will pick up. As of the end of December, the average sales price is up 1.8% over the last year, but pending sales (which is a better indicator to what will close this month) is up about the same at 1.3% from this time last year. This I feel is a reflection of the interest rates climbing back into the low 7.25% range as of this writing.

Click on the image to see the full seven page report.

Loan Forbearance; What Do I Need To Know?

You thought you wouldn't hear this word again, as it was so popular in the recession, but its raised its ugly head a bit so thought I would share. I have had a few clients call who were let go from Intel and Nike recently who are needing help while they line up another job, and talking to your bank about loan forbearance is something to consider should you find yourself in the same situation.


So what exactly is "loan forbearance"? Bankrate explains it best..... “Mortgage forbearance is an option that allows borrowers to pause or lower their mortgage payments while dealing with a short-term crisis, such as a job loss, illness or other financial setback . . . When you can’t afford to pay your mortgage, forbearance gives you a chance to sort out your finances and get back on track.”


Forbearance can help borrowers avoid the spiral of missed payments and foreclosure. It provides breathing room to address challenges and plan next steps. And while most homeowners today are not in a position to need forbearance, thanks to strong equity and foundations of the current housing market, it is an option for the few who do need it.


If you or a homeowner you know is facing financial difficulties, the first step is to contact your mortgage lender. They can walk you through the forbearance process and help you understand your options. Keep in mind that forbearance is not automatic — you need to apply and discuss the terms with your lender.

January is Radon Action Month!

Since January is National Radon Action Month, there's no better time to educate your loved ones and clients about the dangers of radon.

 

Go to the US Environmental Protection Agency site to learn more about the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmoking Americans and how to test homes for radon. Here in the Portland area Radon is the real deal. There are several areas that are known to be high in radon, due to the ancient Columbia river valley dredging up urainim laced boulders millions of years ago. If you have questions about radon, I suggest you visit the EPA site above, and THIS LINK which takes you to a radon map of Metro Portland where you can put in your address to see your risk.

Will Home Prices Fall in 2025?


The short answer? Not likely. While mortgage rates are expected to ease, home prices are projected to keep climbing in most areas – just at a slower, more normal pace. If you average the expert forecasts together, you’ll see prices are expected to go up roughly 3% next year, with most of them hitting somewhere in the 3 to 4% range. And that’s a much more typical and sustainable rise in prices (see graph):


So don’t expect a sudden drop that’ll score you a big deal if you’re thinking of buying this year. While that may sound disappointing if you’re hoping prices will come down, refocus on this. It means you won’t have to deal with the steep increases we saw in recent years, and you’ll also likely see any home you do buy go up in value after you get the keys in hand. And that’s actually a good thing. 

And if you’re wondering how it’s even possible prices are still rising, here’s your answer. It all comes down to supply and demand. Even though there are more homes for sale now than there were a year ago, it’s still not enough to keep up with all the buyers out there. As Redfin explains:

“Prices will rise at a pace similar to that of the second half of 2024 because we don’t expect there to be enough new inventory to meet demand.”

Keep in mind, though, the housing market is hyper-local. So, this will vary by area. Some markets will see even higher prices. And some may see prices level off or even dip a little if inventory is up in that area. In most places though, prices will continue to rise (as they usually do). If you want to find out what’s happening where you live, please reach out to me.


Bottom Line

The housing market is always shifting, and 2025 will be no different. With rates likely to ease a bit and prices rising at a more normal and sustainable pace, it’s all about staying informed and making a plan that works for you.


Let’s connect so you can get the scoop on what’s happening in our area and advice on how to make your next move a smart one.



Search ALL Portland Area Homes

Click on the link below, or the image to search the Portland area MLS for all single family, condo, or multi-family homes in the Portland metro area. The site also includes some pre-defined common searches on the right side, and also always shows the most recent 20 listed properties in the metro area. Be sure to SAVE your search, that way you will always be notified of any new matches as they happen. Click on the photo to search now!

Thanks for checking out this newsletter, and for supporting our real estate team for all these years. We are always available for you. ROB LEVY, CAITY ABOUAF and PAT WEISS

*Pat Weiss is licensed with Oregon Referral Partners, LLC. Same address as below.

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Now More Than Ever, Experience Matters
The Rob Levy Team, Rob Levy Principal Broker and Caity Abouaf, Broker
Keller Williams Realty Professionals / Main Office (503) 546-9955