Articles Tagged "Bend"

Chances are that over the last eighteen months, your home has also become your workplace. So what do you do when you need a getaway? Our brokers share the many compelling reasons why Travel + Leisure just named Bend, OR as one of the "8 Best Small Towns to Buy a Vacation Home in the U.S."

What Makes Bend So Wonderful?

• Beautiful Weather
  Bend has the highest average number of sunny days in Oregon. While the Pacific Northwest has a rainy reputation, Bend averages 11 inches of rainfall per year, less than one-third of the national average of 38 inches. According to BestPlaces, the most comfortable months in Bend are July, August, and September, which is prime vacation time.
  
  
• Outdoor Playground 
  No matter what your choice of outdoor activities, you'll find it within convenient access in Bend. Are you an adrenaline junkie? Mt. Bachelor, just 20 miles away, is one of the top spots for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. If you prefer a more moderate pace, there are plenty of trails for hiking, running, and mountain biking. Water lovers have the Deschutes River and nearby lakes for swimming, fishing, boating, and paddle sports.
  
  
• Charming Downtown Area
  Bend's quaint, delightful downtown area is essentially unchanged since the city was founded in 1905. Instead of skyscrapers and national retailers, you'll see historic buildings, charming independent shops, and an eclectic mix of restaurants. For those times when you want the big city, Portland is only a three-hour drive away.
  
  
• Easy to Navigate
  Leave the car at home. With a Walk Score of 90 out of 100, Bend earns the coveted designation of "Walker's Paradise." The city is also a recent recipient of the SILVER level award from the League of American Bicyclists, which is given to communities deemed most bicycle-friendly. 
  
  
• Stunning Scenery
  When it comes to visual surroundings, variety is definitely the word for Bend. Its prime location between the desert to the east and mountains to the west means you're treated to an endless display of picturesque landscapes. You may find yourself becoming an early riser just to see the sunrises, and there are few things more romantic than a sunset in Bend.

Things to See and Do in Bend

• Mt. Bachelor - 13000 SW Century Dr., Bend, OR 97702
  At 9.065 feet, Mt. Bachelor isn't the tallest mountain in Oregon, but it's definitely the most popular, with nearly half a million visitors per year. Mt. Bachelor's skiing season runs from mid-November through May, making it one of the longest in the country, but it's also active during summer when people head out for hiking and mountain biking.
  
  
• Drake Park - 777 NW Riverside Blvd., Bend, OR 97701
  Downtown Bend is home to Drake Park, a scenic spot alongside Mirror Pond on the Deschutes River that's perfect for a brisk walk, fishing, or some time with a good book. The park is also a gathering spot for events such as Bend's July 4th celebration. Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the picnic tables. Park hours are 5 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Bend Ale Trail
  The Pacific Northwest is one of the major outposts of the craft beer movement, and in Oregon, Bend is second only to Portland in quantity and quality of breweries. Founded in 2010, the Bend Ale Trail was first in the West and second in the nation. The trail is divided into seven distinct territories, encompassing more than two dozen breweries. Get a digital or old-school passport and win prizes for each territory you complete.
  
  
• Tower Theatre - 835 NW Wall St., Bend, OR 97703
  Dubbed "Bend's Living Room," the Tower Theatre is the epicenter of the city's cultural and entertainment scene. Events cover the full spectrum, including concerts, movies, plays, and dance. The calendar for 2022 includes Judy Collins, "Friends: The Musical Parody," and "The Fab Four: The Ultimate Beatles Tribute." 
  
  
• McMenamins Old St. Francis School - 700 NW Bond St., Bend, OR 97703
  In Bend, when someone talks about going "back to school," it's a good thing. McMenamins Old St. Francis School is a 1936 Catholic schoolhouse converted to a lively entertainment complex including a hotel, brewery, pub, movie theater, and concert hall. When you visit, be sure to check out the broom closet on the third floor of the Art House for entry to a secret bar!

Which of the amazing Bend homes for sale is your perfect vacation getaway? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for friendly and knowledgeable help with your search.

Spanning 2,650 miles from the Mexican border in the south to the Canadian border in the north, the Pacific Crest Trail is to the West Coast what the Appalachian Trail is to the East Coast. Our brokers take a look at this iconic hiking destination that's within convenient distance of Bend homes for sale.

History of the Pacific Crest Trail

The first seeds of the Pacific Crest Trail were planted right here in Oregon. Fred Cleator, a supervisor in the U.S. Forest Service, first mapped the state's Skyline Trail in 1920 and started plans for a similar route in Washington.

At the time, the Boy Scouts, Sierra Club, and other organizations were floating various ideas for hiking trails. In 1926, Catherine Montgomery, a teacher in Bellingham, WA, became the first to propose a contiguous hiking trail through the three West Coast states. 

Mountain League of Los Angeles chairman Clinton C. Clarke was inspired to unite these groups into one cohesive effort when he organized the Pacific Crest Trail System Conference in 1932. The conference, which counted legendary nature photographer Ansel Adams among its committee members, led to Clarke becoming known as the father of the Pacific Crest Trail.

Finally, during President Lyndon B. Johnson's administration, Congress passed the National Trails System Act on October 2, 1968. In addition to setting forth the administrative framework for a nationwide system of trails, this officially named the Pacific Crest Trail and the Appalachian Trail as the country's first scenic trails. 

Fun Facts About the Pacific Crest Trail

• At loose ends after the death of her mother, writer Cheryl Strayed began a journey on the Pacific Crest Trail despite no previous hiking experience. Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail details the highs and lows of her 1,100-mile journey. The memoir, along with the movie adapted from the book and starring Reese Witherspoon, created a spike of interest in the Pacific Crest Trail.
  
  
• Anyone hiking or horseback riding 500 miles or more in a continuous trip must obtain a permit. While there is no charge for a permit, they are issued on a first-come-first-served basis and limited by quota. Day and overnight use permits are also required in 33 places along the Pacific Crest Trail, including Crater Lake National Park, Mount Jefferson Wilderness, and Three Sisters Wilderness in Oregon.
  
  
• How long does it take to traverse the entire length of the Pacific Crest Trail? While some elite athletes have accomplished it in as little as two months, the average time is approximately five months. Expenses run anywhere from $4,000-$8,000, depending on how frugal or extravagant a hiker chooses to be.
  
  
• While no formal statistics are currently kept, the self-reported "2,600 Miler List" includes 7,936 people, 100 of whom have completed the trail more than once. The annual number peaked in 2018 when 1,185 completions were reported. Total number of permits issued for all usage has grown from 1,879 in 2013 to 7,888 in 2019.

Pacific Crest Trail Hikes Near Bend

• Experienced hikers who are up for a challenge are rewarded with spectacular views after reaching the summit of Diamond Peak, one of Oregon's Matterhorns. The 13.8-mile dog-friendly trail is described as a "scramble," which is the term for a route that's more difficult than regular hiking but not quite to the level of rock-climbing. Unlike most mountains that are relatively symmetrical, Diamond Peak has a jagged profile that's been compared to the back of a stegosaurus. 
  
  
• Twin Peaks, more familiarly known as the Twins, is a volcano that gained its name from the dual summits formed by a gap in the crater rim. This 6.7-mile dog-friendly route crosses the Pacific Crest Trail on its way to views of both Twins along with Mount Jefferson, Mount McLaughlin, and other parts of the Cascades. The real showstopper is Waldo Lake, a popular Oregon attraction that's the second-largest natural freshwater lake in the state behind Crater Lake.
  
  
• North, Middle, and South make up the Three Sisters that are the centerpiece of the eponymous Wilderness Area. Skirt the permit requirement by hiking the Scott Trail, a dog-friendly route marked by alpine meadows full of wildflowers. Along with the Three Sisters, the summit features views of Collier Glacier, the largest glacier in Oregon, situated between North and Middle Sisters.

The best part of any journey is returning to your dream home in Bend. Whether you're buying or selling a house, contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for cheerful and professional help with Bend real estate.

Fall is here! And with it comes fall weather. So it's time to pay attention to home maintenance and repairs. If you're thinking about selling your home in the near future, our brokers can offer advice on important fall maintenance tips.

In the Pacific Northwest, the fall season is the beginning of chilly temperatures, heavy rainfall, and snow and ice. Preparing your home with necessary maintenance before cold weather sets in will protect against costly damages and keep your family warm and comfortable. Take a look at 10 fall maintenance tips that you should not ignore:

1. Check Your Roof
   Look for damaged or missing roof shingles that may lead to water leaks in the attic and the walls. Water leaks can cause a variety of costly damages including rotten beams, ruined insulation, and dangerous black mold that is toxic.
   
   
2. Clean Out Your Gutters
   While you have your ladder handy, clean out your gutters and downspouts. A shop vac works great for removing dirt, debris, and leaves, but if you don't have one try an old plastic spatula. It's considerably slower but it won't scratch your gutters. Clogged gutters can cause roof and siding leaks, as well as foul-smelling standing water that attracts mosquitoes and insects.
   
   
3. Mow Your Lawn Shorter
   When temperatures start dropping, it's best to mow your lawn with a shorter cut. After you rake up dead leaves and debris, set your mower to cut the grass at 1-1/2 to 2 inches high. This will prevent tall grass and weeds from smothering new spring growth and reduce the chance of unwanted lawn pests and mold that often forms on snow.
   
   
4. Prepare Your Lawn for Winter
   After mowing the yard, prep your lawn for winter weather with fertilizer and water. Choose a fertilizer that's labeled 4-1-2 with good nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels to help grass store nutrients. If you have sprinklers, give your lawn a good soaking, check sprinkler pipes and heads for leaks, and wrap your above-ground pipes with insulation before freezing temperatures arrive.
   
   
5. Clean Out Your Chimney
   There's nothing like a warm roaring fire in freezing winter temperatures to keep your family cozy. Fall means it's time to call a professional to inspect and clean your chimney and test your fireplace flue for a tight seal that eliminates drafts. For added protection, invest in a chimney screen to prevent birds and squirrels from building nests because they look for safe, warm winter homes in the winter.
   
   
6. Touch Up Your Exterior Paint
   If your house needs a paint job, take care of this task before winter. Paint doesn't handle extreme hot or cold temperatures well, even if it's outdoor paint. In freezing temperatures, paint gets very thick and doesn't spread evenly with rollers or brushes. Cold weather also prevents the paint from drying properly, so anything that blows into your house can stick to or leave ugly marks in the paint.
   
   
7. Service Your Heating System
   If you're like most homeowners, you likely have a central heating and air conditioning system. To ensure heat during winter weather, schedule a fall appointment with a professional HVAC technician to inspect and clean your furnace unit, usually located in the garage or a hall closet. Since your heat hasn't been turned on in a year or so, it's essential to ensure that your burner isn't leaking carbon monoxide.
   
   
8. Check Windows and Doors
   During the fall, inspect your windows and doors for unwanted drafts. Add weatherstripping to ensure tight seals, inspect and replace any damaged glass in windows and sliders, and replace or repair any damaged window or door frames. Drafts will make your home chillier during winter and your heating bills will be higher from running your furnace around the clock.
   
   
9. Clean Heating and Dryer Vents
   Dirty vents obstruct proper airflow. Clogged interior air vents will prevent proper heating into your home and keep you feeling colder during the winter. Dirty dryer vents with lint buildup can make your dryer less efficient and even start a fire caused by static electricity that ignites.
   
   
10. Check Your Safety Devices
    While doing fall maintenance, take time to check home safety devices. (1) Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and replace old batteries; (2) Check your fire extinguisher's expiration date and replace it if necessary; (3) Check your home for radon gas levels of 4 or above which is considered dangerous by the Environment Protection Agency (EPA).  

If you're considering buying or selling in the Washington area, contact us for available properties. We have many available homes that may be just what you're looking for.

Depending on your point of view, rainy days can be either the best or the worst. It's frustrating being stuck in the house with nothing to do. But with a little creativity, there are all kinds of activities you can participate in while waiting for the weather to clear - especially for new homeowners who are working to make their new house their own. Here are a few DIY projects that can help you pass the time and feel productive on a rainy day.

• Build a Birdhouse
  This is a simple but rewarding project that you might even be able to get your kids to help you with. All you need are a few small wooden boards and some basic tools like a saw and a drill. Build the house, decorate it, and when the rain stops, hang it in the yard to give the local birds a place to hang their proverbial hats. Be aware: if you paint your birdhouse, sometimes the paint smell can keep birds away the first year. If you do choose to paint your birdhouse, go with light, muted colors that reflect heat rather than absorbing it and won't attract predators. And be sure to use non-toxic paint.
  
  
• Make a Chalkboard Wall
  This one is much simpler than it looks. It doesn't require a large, unwieldy board or even the use of nails or screws. Rather, with a special kind of paint, you can give a wall or section of a wall in your house the look and feel of a chalkboard. Clean the wall thoroughly first, then apply a coat of chalkboard paint. Wait a couple of hours, then apply a second coat, then a third coat after another couple of hours. Let it dry for three days before marking it with chalk. Once the wall is ready, though, you can use it to make shopping lists, leave notes for family members, and more. Plus, you and the kids can use it for future rainy day activities, like playing tic-tac-toe or even just doodling. It's the rainy day gift that keeps on giving.
  
  
• Change Knobs and Handles
  Look at your drawers and cabinets. Do you like the way the handles and knobs look? Maybe they're showing their age, or maybe they just don't fit with your aesthetic. The good news is, they're easy to remove and switch out for new ones. If you have the replacements handy, most likely, all you'll need is a screwdriver and maybe some new screws.
  
  
• Do Some Odd Jobs
  There are probably plenty of small jobs around the house that you've meant to get to but just haven't had the time. Well, a rainy day is a perfect time. Take a screwdriver and tighten up that wobbly chair. Change the burnt-out bulb in your light fixture. Rearrange your pantry to make things easier to find. There are also several jobs that homeowners should perform periodically but most people tend to forget. A rainy day is a great opportunity to catch up. For instance, check your HVAC system's air filter and see if it's time to replace it. If the filter is white and translucent, it's still good. If it's dingy, gray, and opaque, then it's time for a new one. Another task that's relatively simple but a bit time-consuming is doing a deep clean of your dishwasher. Remove the bottom rack and do a quick clean of the drain on the bottom. Then, put a cup of vinegar on the top rack and run it through the cycle. Once it's done, sprinkle baking soda on the inside, and run it through a rinse cycle. When it's done, your dishwasher will not only be cleaner but function more efficiently.
  
  
• Get Your Kids Involved
  Let's face it. The ones who are most likely to be bored on a rainy afternoon are your kids. You can let them sit and watch Netflix all day while you do home improvement tasks, or you can get them to help you. If they're old enough and responsible enough, take the opportunity to show them some basic DIY skills: how to use different tools safely, the importance of some of those odd jobs, etc. You can spend some time constructively and bond with your children at the same time. Then when the next rainy day rolls around, you've got a built-in helper for the next set of DIY tasks.

These are just a few things you can do on a rainy day to make your house feel more like home. Our brokers can get you set up in the perfect house to meet your needs. What you do with it after that is up to you. Contact us anytime, rain or shine, to learn more!

Knocking out a few simple tasks this summer will help ensure you don't run into any unexpected problems caused by poor gutter maintenance. This may include leaks, damage to your insulation, siding damage, and more. Don't let this happen to you! Follow these simple tips, and you'll be ready for whatever Mother Nature brings. 

1. Remove Collected Debris
   If it's been a while since you've performed any gutter maintenance, a lot of leaves, sticks, and other debris may have accumulated in there. Start by putting on a pair of thick gloves and pulling out debris by hand. This is the first step to ensuring water has a clear path to flow off of your roof and out the downspouts. This allows it to move safely away from your home, so it doesn't cause damage. 

2. Check for Nests
   Birds often like to make their nests in gutters since it offers them a high perch that is relatively undisturbed. By summertime, the babies have usually flown away, making now a great time to remove the empty nests from your gutters. Just be sure to check carefully for any signs of life before pulling them out. If you notice babies are still living there, consider leaving them undisturbed and checking back in a few weeks. 

3. Clean Off Your Gutters
   Now that you've removed the large items from your gutters, use a gentle abrasive cleaning product or soap and water along with a scrub brush to give the inside of your gutters a thorough cleaning. This will allow you to remove any moss, mold, or algae built up inside your gutters. If you notice areas where there's a lot of growth, pay attention. This could be a sign that you have a drainage problem. 

4. Check for Damage
   Once your gutters are clean, you'll be able to tell if there are any damaged areas you need to address. Carefully check all of your gutters for holes that need to be filled, areas of rust, or anything that's sagging or askew. You can typically fix sagging gutters by pulling them upward using a pair of pliers. If you notice any sections of your gutter that are extremely rusty, consider replacing them. 

5. Repair Any Leaks
   As you're checking for damage, there's a good chance you'll come across some leaks. This often happens when there are visible holes or areas that are buckling. You can also check for smaller leaks along the cracks and seams by using a hose to run water through the gutters. Watch out for any areas where water comes out before it reaches the downspout. You can effectively fix most gutter leaks with a waterproof sealant, like silicone caulking. Depending on the type of damage, you may also use some metal flashing and attach it using roofing cement. Once the repair has dried, run water through again to make sure it's sealed. If not, you'll want to call in a gutter professional to take care of the problem. 

6. Visually Inspect Your Roof
   Since you're already up on a ladder, take a moment to visually inspect your roof. Keep an eye out for loose shingles, which can cause leaks. If your gutters haven't been maintained for a while, this may also cause water to pond on your roof, leading to additional problems. Catching issues early can help you get them fixed before they become a much bigger deal. For safety reasons, avoid getting up on the roof yourself. If you notice any potential issues, call a professional roofer to come out and take a look. 

7. Install New Equipment
   If you've been thinking about installing new downspouts or gutters, the dry season is the perfect time to take on this project. You may also want to consider installing gutter covers. This upgrade prevents leaves and debris from falling into your gutters. While it will take some effort to install, you'll love how much it cuts down on your future gutter maintenance! 

Whether you're planning to stay in your home for the long term or you're thinking about moving soon, our brokers encourage you to keep up with basic maintenance tasks. This will help ensure your home maintains its current value and its curb appeal. 

We're here to help. Your dream home is waiting for you, so don't wait. Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started.

Portland homes for sale have a lot going for them! World-class shopping and dining, a diverse economy, and unmistakable local culture will have you exploring the city for years to come. But everyone needs to take some time out in nature, too – and the opportunities around Portland are abundant.

Our brokers want to make sure you know all about them!

Portland is the heart of the Pacific Northwest. No matter what outdoor activities interest you, you are in good company. Hiking, biking, backpacking, and fishing are all well-loved by the local community. The chance to see mountain and forest settings alike draws visitors from all over.

Portland residents are looking for weekend getaways in the great outdoors. State and national parks beckon within a short drive. You can choose a new one every weekend and still have plenty to explore!

Here are a few of the outstanding local sites for your next outdoor excursion:

1. Portland Fairview RV Park – 21401 Northeast Sandy Boulevard, Fairview, OR 97024
   An RV adventure can make for a truly unique camping experience. Portland Fairview RV Park is one of the top RV parks in the region. It welcomes day-trippers as well as weekly and monthly residents. Just eight miles east of Portland, it offers a pristine respite along ancient evergreens and a babbling brook. A fitness center and pool round out the amenities.
   
   
2. Jantzen Beach RV Resort – 1503 North Hayden Island Drive, Portland, OR 97217
   Another premium RV park right here in your Portland neighborhood, Jantzen Beach RV Resort distinguishes itself with its exceptional customer service. Amenities for all ages include a basketball court, game room, playgrounds, fully stocked clubhouse, a heated pool, and a fitness center. It's pet-friendly, so the four-footed members of the family can join in on all the fun.
   
   
3. Mt. Hood National Forest – 16400 Champion Way, Sandy, OR 97055
   Just 20 miles east of Portland, Mt. Hood National Forest is without a doubt one of the truly iconic natural features of both Oregon and Washington state. With more than 1 million acres of remarkable land around Oregon's highest peak, it has all manner of camping: From primitive backcountry sites to tents, cabins, and even day-use sites around Mt. Hood proper.
   
   
4. The Cove (Timothy Lake) Campground at Mt. Hood – See Website for Precise Directions
   The Cove is a popular campground complete with an outdoor amphitheater. Visitors seek it for picnicking, swimming, fishing, and as a base for long-haul hikes. It sits right on the serene Lake Timothy, with boat ramps available at campgrounds all around the area. Trout are stocked in the lake several times a year, and anglers have landed some record rainbow trout.
   
   
5. Triangle Lake Horse Camp at Mt. Hood – See Website for Precise Directions
   If your horse likes to camp as much as you do, Triangle Lake Horse Camp is the place for you to be. Beautiful Triangle Lake is the setting for this hilly, horse-friendly locale, with eight sites available throughout the season. Picnic tables are available and campfires are permitted, but the "mane" attraction is the opportunity to visit with your horse.
   
   
6. Bonney Crossing Campground at Mt. Hood – See Website for Precise Directions
   At the foot of the Badger Creek Wilderness, Bonney Crossing Campground is the place for a "bonny" good time in a captivating landscape. It is frequented by hikers going to Badger Creek Trail, anglers, and equestrians. Badger Creek itself is known for a staggering amount of trout and strong kokanee fishing throughout most of the year.
   
   
7. McNeil Campground at Mt. Hood – See Website for Precise Directions
   McNeil Campground is one of the standout sites around Mt. Hood. Visitors praise its location along the scenic Sandy River, as well as its size: With 34 spots, there's usually plenty of room, even though it doesn't take reservations. It stands at the crossroads of many hiking trails. Coho salmon, steelhead, and chinook are just a few local fish that can be your "catch of the day."

These may be popular picks, but there's always more to discover here in the Portland area. With Coldwell Banker Bain, you can get the expert advice you need. To learn more about local real estate opportunities, contact us today.

At one time, kitchen appliances were considered primarily functional. They brought a new level of convenience to households, but style-wise, most designs were pretty limited.

Today's appliances have become equal parts, time savers, and decor statements. Keep your kitchen looking modern with these tips from our brokers for upgrading appliances. 

1. What Is the Born-On Date?
   Nothing lasts forever, and that's certainly true for appliances, no matter how expensive or advanced they are. Don't hold your breath, hoping your 10-year-old dishwasher can hang on. It may still be operational but most likely running at a sub-par performance. Know the average lifespans of appliances and make plans to replace them when the time comes.
   
   
2. Repair or Replace?
   Uncertain whether a repair is preferable to a replacement? Experts recommend the 50-50 rule of thumb. If an appliance is more than 50 percent through its expected lifespan and repairs would run more than 50 percent of buying new, then go with a replacement.
   
   
3. The Price Is Right
   Appliances are major purchases, so even if you've included them in your budget, you want to get the best value for your dollar. According to home improvement guru Bob Vila, stores want to clear out the old inventory when new models come out. Shop for dishwashers in September and October, refrigerators in May, and ranges/ovens in January. Holidays are also good times to watch for sales.
   
   
4. Go Green
   When it comes to appliances, green is more than just a color. As appliances continue to become more energy-efficient, newer models can help preserve the environment and save you money on your utility bills. Check an appliance's Energy Star tag, which displays its Energy Star rating along with annual estimated energy use and cost.
   
   
5. Mix and Match
   In the past, have your kitchen appliances been replaced piecemeal? Unfortunately, not all products share the same lifespan. As a result, they often end up being replaced at different times. The clashing styles cause an imbalance that throws the look of the whole kitchen off. If possible, it's best to replace all your appliances simultaneously for a coordinated appearance.
   
   
6. Check the Warranty
   Before you purchase a new appliance, be sure to check out the warranty. If you're choosing high-end appliances, it may be worth the investment to buy an extended warranty that will cover potentially costly repairs. 
   
   
7. Style and Substance
   The days of basic white appliances are in the rearview mirror. Of course, vintage is always in style, so you can certainly get hip, retro-styled designs. Stainless steel is high on the popularity list, but a color is also an option. Benjamin Moore has chosen Aegean Teal as the Color of 2021, while Pantone offers two: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating, a lemon yellow. Black, red, and brown are other good choices.
   
   
8. Lifestyle Choices
   Do you love spending hours in the kitchen with Food Network how-to videos running on your iPad? Maybe you're a working parent who wants quick but healthy ways to feed your family. If your kitchen isn't compatible with your lifestyle, the net result is frustration. Consider the role you want the kitchen to play in your life and design accordingly.
   
   
9. The Sounds of Silence
   No one wants to yell to be heard over a noisy dishwasher or clunky range hood. Even when working properly, older appliances are much louder than today's models that operate with barely a hum. Stop letting those annoying sounds drown out your latest Netflix binge.
   
   
10. Higher Education
    Has your home become "smart?" Innovations such as voice-activated assistants like Alexa and programmable thermostats make it easier to manage your home, even when you're not there. Smart appliances let you keep an eye on what's in the oven or make extra ice when company's coming, all from an app on your phone or tablet.
    
    
11. Lay of the Land
    A kitchen's layout and placement of appliances are intertwined. Maybe the original builder ended up putting appliances where they fit, rather than where they actually made sense. Between the current range of sizes, styles, and installation possibilities, it's much easier to create a logical flow more conducive to efficiency. 

Whether you're the owner or buyer of Portland homes for sale, we provide friendly and experienced assistance. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for more information.