Are you Moving with the Market?
- Elisha + Taryn
- May 6
- 5 min read
Real estate is more than just buying or selling a home. It’s about timing, strategy, and understanding the ever-evolving market landscape. With interest rates, inventory, and buyer behavior shifting throughout 2025, it’s no surprise that navigating the housing market can feel overwhelming.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how today’s market dynamics are creating new challenges and opportunities for buyers and sellers alike. Whether you're looking to make a move or simply stay informed, this is your guide to understanding what’s really happening in the market right now.
10 Affordable Ways to Update Your Home for Under $150
Thinking about refreshing your home without spending a fortune? Whether you're preparing to sell, settling into a new home, or just craving a simple change, small updates can make a huge impact on your space—and your home's value. The good news? You don’t have to do a full remodel to make your home feel new again. Here are 10 stylish home upgrades you can make: 1. Swap Out Your Dining Room Chandelier
Updating a light fixture can entirely change the ambiance of a room. Swapping out your old dining room chandelier for a modern or classic design instantly enhances your space.
2. Update Your Pendant Lights
Kitchen or island pendant lights are another area where you can get a big style upgrade for a small price. Try matte black, brass, or even glass pendants to bring a modern touch.
3. Replace All "Boob" Lights
We all know the classic dome ceiling light—it’s time to say goodbye. Swapping out these outdated fixtures for flush-mount or semi-flush lighting can make your home feel more custom. Expect to pay between $30–$75 for quality replacements.
4. Paint Your Front Door
Want instant curb appeal? A fresh coat of paint on your front door is a game-changer.
5. Change Cabinet and Vanity Pulls
Swapping out old knobs and handles on your kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanity can give the illusion of a full renovation.
6. DIY Paint Your Cabinets or Vanity
Painting your kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanity can give your space a whole new look. You'll just need primer, paint, and a bit of patience.
7. Change Your Kitchen Faucet
Upgrading your kitchen faucet is a practical and aesthetic win. Modern pull-down or touchless faucets often retail for under $150 and offer better functionality.
8. Paint the Interior of Your Exterior Door
This often-overlooked detail can add a pop of personality to your entryway or back door. Choose a color that complements your interior palette.
9. Update Your Bathroom Mirror and Light Fixture
Nothing dates a bathroom faster than an old mirror and dim lighting. Swapping in a clean-lined mirror and modern fixture can give your bathroom a spa-like refresh without the renovation budget.
10. Add Sconces to Flank Your Fireplace, Bookcase, or Dining Area
Sconces add symmetry, drama, and warmth to any room. Install plug-in sconces (no hardwiring required) next to your fireplace, around a bookcase, or to frame your dining area. It’s a designer move that doesn’t cost designer money.
Need inspo, recommendations, or links? Message us. We're always here to help you with efficient and cost-effective design choices.
Neighborhood Spotlight
Neighborhood Spotlight: Sellwood-Moreland, Portland
Nestled along the Willamette River in Southeast Portland, the Sellwood-Moreland neighborhood seamlessly blends historic charm with modern vibrancy. Known for its tree-lined streets, diverse architecture, and a strong sense of community, it's a locale that offers both residents and visitors a unique Portland experience.
A Rich History
Originally established as an independent city in the late 19th century, Sellwood was annexed by Portland in 1893. Today, remnants of its storied past are evident in the well-preserved Victorian-era homes, iconic golf courses like Eastmoreland, and the enduring presence of landmarks like Oaks Amusement Park, which has been entertaining families since 1905.
Culinary Delights
Sellwood-Moreland boasts a burgeoning food scene, with establishments catering to a variety of tastes:
Sebastiano's: This Sicilian deli, relocated from Montavilla, offers an expanded menu and indoor seating. Known for its muffuletta sandwiches and olive oil cake, it's a must-visit for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.
Kaede: Introducing Portland to the sushi kappo dining style, Kaede offers both sushi and small plates, allowing guests to curate their dining experience based on preference and budget.
Shopping and Entertainment
Beyond dining, Sellwood-Moreland is home to a variety of antique shops, boutiques, and specialty stores, making it a haven for shoppers seeking unique finds. The neighborhood also features the historic Moreland Theater, providing entertainment options for all ages.
What's New and Upcoming
The neighborhood continues to evolve with new additions enhancing its appeal:
Monty's Red Sauce: This Italian-American restaurant, located at 6716 SE Milwaukie Avenue, offers a spacious dining area and a menu filled with nostalgic dishes. The full restaurant debuted in early 2025, expanding the culinary landscape of Sellwood-Moreland.
Community and Lifestyle
Residents of Sellwood-Moreland enjoy a blend of urban and suburban living, with easy access to downtown Portland and surrounding areas. The neighborhood's commitment to community is evident in its well-maintained parks, active neighborhood associations, and a calendar filled with local events.
Do You Really Know What’s Going On in the Real Estate Market?
Over the last few years, the real estate market has been anything but predictable—and 2025 has taken that volatility to the next level. The market isn’t “bad,” but it is shifting fast, and that means both buyers and sellers need to be more informed than ever before.
Here’s the truth: buyers and sellers are often living in two completely different realities.
One day, sellers hold the leverage with multiple offers flying in and the next, buyers have the upper hand with room to negotiate closing costs, rate buy-downs, or extended inspections. In this kind of environment, expectations can clash quickly—and deals can fall apart just as fast.
That’s why working with a trusted real estate advisor is no longer optional—it’s essential.
Why the Gap Between Buyers and Sellers Is Growing
This year, we’ve already seen major shifts in who controls the negotiating table. Conditions are changing month to month. One week, we may be advising clients to request a 2/1 rate buy-down from the seller to make financing more affordable. The next month, we're helping buyers navigate how to buy a new home before selling their current one because sale contingencies are suddenly off the table in competitive markets.
These constant swings are causing a wider divide in what buyers expect and what sellers think their home is worth, and both sides can be frustrated if they don’t have the full picture.
So... What Should You Do?
The most important thing you can do right now is get crystal clear on your goals.
Every market has opportunities, but you need a tailored strategy to take advantage of them. Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading, or downsizing, having a clear roadmap and the right team behind you will help you succeed—no matter which way the market shifts.
Moving Outside Portland? We’ve Got You.
Whether you're buying, selling, or investing outside the Portland Metro area, we can still support you. We have a strong network of trusted, top-tier Realtors across the U.S.—and if we don’t already have someone in your new city, we’ll personally vet and interview agents to make sure you’re in the best hands. You deserve a Realtor who’s knowledgeable, supportive, and ready to go to bat for you...no matter where you're headed!
Personal Note
We’re more than just your real estate brokers. We’re here to think outside the box for you, support you through every step of the process, and make sure your home feels just right for whatever chapter you're entering. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just looking for design inspiration, we’ve got your back—because we believe in creating homes that don’t just work, but truly inspire.
Thank you for trusting us with your home journey!
Elisha + Taryn
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