Maryann Spady's Blog Posts

August 3, 2026 | Real EstateCheck Out My Instagram Reel On This SubjectWe're closing in on almost 2 million acres burned in Oregon this summer. And somewhere between the smoke advisories and the air

TL;DR: The short version for people in a hurry 35% of builders (1 in 3) cut prices on new homes in June 2026Average price cut: 6%On a $500K home, that's $30,000 back in your pocketSavings don't

TL;DR Have you lived in your home for 10 years or more? If you said yes, then you should be aware that if you sell your home, you could owe capital gains tax at the end of the transaction. Why? The

What the Washington County Affordable Housing Bond Actually Means for Hillsboro TL;DR In 2018, Washington County voters approved a $652.8M regional affordable housing bond, and Hillsboro received .

The real estate industry loves to make simple things sound complicated. And one of the most oversimplified things you'll hear? "It's a seller's market" or "it's a buyer's market." Like it's one or

Let’s be real:: once the holidays are over, winter in Oregon can feel... endless.The sky turns gray, the rain barely takes a break, and it’s way too easy to settle into a pattern of doom

Forget a white Christmas - the Portland's metro area is getting something far more dramatic this year.While you're hanging stockings and prepping the turkey, a potentially devastating windstorm is

TL;DR:Your house doesn’t need to be perfect — it just needs to feel calm, cozy, and pulled together enough. Focus on the areas people actually see, use what you already have, light a

Meta Description: A no-BS breakdown of how Oregon property tax assessments work, why your value might’ve jumped, and what to do before the December 31 appeal deadline.TL;DR (because who&rsquo

TL/DR: Central Hillsboro is the heart of Oregon's Silicon Valley with a mix of 1930s bungalows and newer homes. Homes run between $300K-$1M depending on what you want. Great tech job access (hello,

TL/DR: Orenco Station is really nice suburban living with good schools, walkable downtown, and easy MAX access to Portland. Houses run $500K+, everything closes early, and it's very family-focused.

Fall in Hillsboro is short, but it's magic.The mornings get crisp, the trees around Jackson Bottom start turning, and suddenly everyone's carrying around a pumpkin spice latte. The problem? Blink

TL;DR: Apple season is here in Washington County. Bell's Orchard, Smith Berry Barn, Hoffman Farm Store, and Bays Family Farm in Banks all have u-pick. Sauvie Island is 15 minutes away and worth the

TL;DR: Powell said rate cuts are possible but the Fed's going to move slow because tariffs are making stuff more expensive. Your mortgage rates might drop a little, but don't expect them to crash

A plain‑spoken guide to the Fed's July 30, 2025 rate decision and what it means for real people.What Actually Happened TodayThe decision: On July 30, 2025 the Fed voted 10‑2 to keep interest

TL;DR:The Portland housing market in June hit the brakes a bit after a busy spring — a few more homes for sale than last year, buyers making offers but taking their sweet time to commit, and

TL;DL: shop smart (Costco, WinCo, New Seasons), pick budget-friendly cheese like Sargento Ultra Thin, splurge on local summer sausage from The Meating Place, grab gluten free crackers if you need

Because planning summer shouldn’t require 14 open tabs and a minor meltdownLet’s be real for a sec.You’re staring down a long stretch of summer, trying to figure out how to squeeze

Home decor’s having an identity crisis, and I’m here for it (because I’m kinda over the modern farmhouse). According to a recent AP story, the 2025 vibe is split between City Glow

Well, here we are—another month, another set of numbers, and the Portland housing market is still giving us mixed signals like it’s trying to ghost us and text us back at the same time

Ever walk into a house and feel like it’s about to spill all of its secrets? Not in a haunted kind of way (probably), but in the “this place has seen some shit” kind of way.That

This house came with a vibe. I brought the book.The Davidson Residence—better known as the Hobbit House—is one of the most iconic homes ever featured on Zillow Gone Wild, and for good

August in Oregon is synonymous with golden fields of sunflowers swaying under the summer sun. If you're looking to immerse yourself in these cheerful blooms, Washington County and its neighboring

So, here’s the story of my annual North Plains Easter thing? It's been a wild ride, let me tell you! Four years ago, it all started with a crazy idea my business partner Rebecca and I had,,

Hey everyone! Rocket Mortgage just bought Redfin, and you might be wondering what this means for you. It's a bit of a mixed bag, with some potential benefits and drawbacks. Let's dive in!Why Did

Why hello there tech-savvy homeowners! Get ready to geek out because 2025 is bursting with incredible smart home innovations. From robot vacuums to AI-powered air purifiers, this year's tech scene

The Holcomb Creek Trestle, the longest wooden trestle in the US, stretches 1,168 feet long in Helvetia, Oregon. Built in 1911, it carried various trains, from steam to electric. Despite its

The January 2025 housing market painted a picture of continued regional disparity. While prices nationally softened, certain pockets of the country remained fiercely competitive. This month, the

I know we're all feeling the pinch of rising housing costs, and it seems like every day there's a new challenge to tackle. Well, I have some news that might affect your homeownership plans:

                  Hi everyone! There's nothing quite like the feeling of walking into a clean, well-maintained home. It's a place where memories are,

If you’re considering a move to the Portland metro area, there’s a hidden gem that’s been catching the eye of homebuyers: Hillsboro, Oregon. Known for its tech-driven economy,

Portland Metro Real Estate Market Update: September 2024 by Maryann SpadyWelcome to the September Portland Metro real estate market update. Are you ready for some intrigue? The market saw some

You might have seen headlines about the Fed cutting rates and thought, "Great, mortgage rates are about to drop!" But, like most things in real estate (and life), it's not that simple. So, let's

Alright, let’s break down what’s really happening in Portland’s real estate market this August 2024. If you’re looking for some clarity without the jargon, you’re in

If you’ve been following the news, you’ve probably heard that the Fed is about to start cutting rates. Jerome Powell’s recent speech from Jackson Hole wasn’t just another

Using Neutral Fall Decor to Maximize Small Spaces and Give Them a Fresh Modern Look by Maryann SpadyAh, fall—the season of pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and home decor that practically begs

Whether you’re ready for it or not the back-to-school ads are here, and while there’s still plenty of summer left for us Oregonians, it’s unfortunately time to start gathering up

I know you’ve seen them on HGTV and drooled. Or maybe your neighbors just installed one and you’re feeling a little jelly. What am I talking about? I’m talking about taking your

Puppy Love in Washington County by Maryann SpadyPicture this: the sun shining, a gentle breeze rustling through the trees, and your furry friend's tail wagging with excitement as you arrive at their

Welcome to the 2023 Washington County Holiday Guide. I hope you!

My assistant for Day 13 by Maryann SpadyEmbarking on the quest for the perfect recipes for our 2nd Annual 12 Days of Holiday Cookies took an unexpected turn this year. In the aftermath of the tragic

12 Days of Holiday Cookies - Puppy Chow by Maryann SpadyHold onto your holiday hats because I've saved the best (and arguably the most addictive) recipe for last – Christmas Puppy Chow, or as

Day 11 - Ube Crinkle Cookies by Maryann SpadyCan you believe we're down to the second-to-last cookie in our 12 Days of Holiday Cookies journey? Time has flown by, and we've discovered so many

Day 10 - Hawaiian Cheesecake Bars by Maryann SpadyAh, let me tell you about my journey with this bar – it was like a comedy of errors from the start. Not for the reasons you might think,.

Happy Growl'Oween by Maryann

Day 9 - Kahlua Gingerbread by Maryann SpadyHave you ever picked a recipe solely based on its name and regretted it later? I confess, that's exactly what I did when I chose this year's 12 Days of

As we venture into this year's "12 Days of Holiday Cookies" journey, it's all about stepping out of our comfort zones and trying cookies we've never baked or tasted before. This week, we're diving

Day 7 - Italian Rainbow Cookies by Maryann SpadyWTH was I thinking with this one? This is exactly what came out of my mouth as I was preparing these cookies. I was like what made you think you could

Maryann's Pumpkin Patch & Christmas Tree Farm List by Maryann

12 Days of Holiday Cookies Day 6 by Maryann SpadyI cannot believe that we’ve hit the halfway point of the 2nd Annual 12 Days of Holiday Cookies. Today’s recipe will take us back to the

Fall 2023 Newsletter by Maryann

Selling your home is a thrilling journey, and staging it to perfection can make all the difference in attracting potential buyers. Staging is not just about making your home look pretty; it's about

12 Days of Holiday Cookies - Day 5 Pumpkin Spice by Maryann SpadyWow, it’s hard to believe that I’m already on day 5 of the 12 days of Holiday Cookies. It’s almost the half-way

Design by Maryann SpadyIf you were to ask my husband, kids, or friends they’d tell you I’m 100% in love with the Hawaiian Islands specifically Maui. We have lots of artwork in our home

Grinch Cookies by Maryann SpadyIs it even the holiday season if the Grinch isn’t involved in some way shape or form? Um nope, so of course when I saw this recipe I knew it had to be included

In a world where self-help books flood the market, it's a rare gem that truly stands out and touches the depths of our souls. 'Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?' by Julie Smith is one such gem, a

Serenity at Sunset: 5 Self-Care Rituals for a Restful Night After a Busy Day by Maryann SpadyIn the hustle and bustle of our busy lives, it's essential to carve out moments of self-care, especially

Unmasking the "Laziness Lie": A Review of "Laziness Does Not Exist" by Devon Price, Ph.D. by Maryann SpadyIn a world that champions productivity, many of us have been conditioned to equate our worth

Rise and Shine: 5 Self-Care Secrets for Blissful Busy Mornings by Maryann SpadyWe've all been there—alarm clocks blaring, to-do lists growing by the second, and the ever-elusive quest for

Day 2 - Lemon Ricotta Cookies by Maryann SpadyI know exactly what you’re thinking when you read the title of this blog because I was thinking it too when I saw this recipe on Pinterest - a

An Artistic Legacy Unveiled - Discovering the Origins of Art in the PearlNestled in the heart of Portland's North Park Blocks, the annual **Art in the Pearl Fine Arts & Crafts Festival** is a

🏠🐶 Happy International Dog Day! 🐾🏠On this special day dedicated to our beloved furry friends, I want to introduce you to someone who holds a special place in the heart of all NextHomies.

The holidays are all about baking, and the treats you get to eat/share with your loved ones. Every year when I’m baking someone asks for one of the cookie recipes I’ve got, so last year

If you've ever wondered about unique and adrenaline-pumping activities that are gaining traction, look no further than the fascinating world of axe throwing. What started as a bachelor party idea in

Quick and Easy Dinner Solutions for Busy Fall Practice Nights by Maryann SpadyAs the school year kicks off and fall sports take center stage, parents find themselves juggling homework, practices,

National Relaxation Day by Maryann Spady💆‍♀️🌿 Happy National Relaxation Day! 🌿💆‍♂️On this special day dedicated to unwinding and rejuvenation, let's explore free or

Design by Maryann Spady💰🏠 Happy National Finance Awareness Day! 🏠💰As we celebrate the importance of financial awareness, we are going to look at real estate and explore three crucial

National Dog Day by Maryann SpadyToday is the paw-fect opportunity to show our furry companions just how much they mean to us! Our four-legged friends bring boundless joy and unconditional love into

Greetings, fellow North Plains residents and garlic enthusiasts! As August draws near, our excitement peaks, for it marks the arrival of the 25th Annual North Plains Elephant Garlic Festival. This

Irresistible Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Recipe for Cookie Perfection! by Maryann SpadyCalling all cookie enthusiasts, it’s National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day! So if you're a fan of

Copy of August 2023 - MVP - Blog Post Image by Maryann SpadyTo avoid buyer's remorse, be sure to consider your future self when shopping for a home.Most new homebuyers don't regret becoming

Embracing Local Excellence: Junk It Junk Removal - A Black-Owned Gem in Portland by Maryann SpadyAugust is Black Business Month, and I’m delighted to spotlight a truly exceptional local

Welcome back to my blog! As forest fire season is in full force in Oregon, it's crucial to be prepared and take necessary steps to protect your home and loved ones from potential wildfires. Even if

Renovate or relocate? by Maryann SpadyDoes your current home no longer serve your needs?If so, you may be torn between relocating to a new home or renovating your existing one. This can be a

Colorful Kitchens by Maryann SpadyWelcome to the world of kitchen design, where creativity and innovation intertwine! One of the hottest trends that have taken the culinary kingdom by storm is the

Frozen yogurt has long been a favorite dessert for many, offering a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream while not compromising on taste. In recent years, it has seen a surge in,

Is the Housing Market Going to Crash? by Maryann SpadyAs a homeowner or buyer, it's crucial to understand the relationship between the housing market and the overall economy. Though it may seem

Navigating Real Estate Challenges: Pricing, Inventory, and Adaptation by Maryann SpadyIn a dynamic market like real estate, it's crucial to stay informed about the challenges that can shape your

salt and straw by Maryann SpadyJuly is National Ice Cream Month, and what better way to celebrate than indulging in some of the most delicious and innovative flavors from Salt & Straw? With

4th of July Parade by Maryann SpadyA Salute to IndependenceEvery year, Americans across the country come together to celebrate the 4th of July with fireworks, barbecues, and patriotic parades. In

A Floral Extravaganza Awaits!Welcome, fellow flower enthusiasts and festival lovers! If you're looking for an unforgettable experience filled with colorful blooms, exciting events, and a vibrant

Juneteenth, or Freedom Day, is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Dating back to 1865, it was on June 19th that Union soldiers, led by

by Maryann SpadyIf you're looking for an exciting event to attend in Portland, Oregon, then the Oregon Rose Festival is definitely something you should consider. Running for over a century, this

 by Maryann Spadyby Maryann SpadyAre you looking to sell your home quickly and without any issues? The first step you’ll want to take is to make sure your home is tidy and spacious. Not

If you crave simple, yet flavorful Thai food, Nong's Khao Man Gai should be on the top of your must-try list. This unassuming food cart in downtown Portland serves only one dish, but that dish is so

by Maryann SpadyBuying a home can be one of the most exciting and fulfilling experiences of your life. However, the process of buying a home can also be stressful and overwhelming, particularly if

by Maryann SpadySelling a home can be a long and arduous process. From listing the property to finding the right buyers and negotiating a deal, it can take months to close a sale. However, one of

by Maryann SpadyAs a parent, you know that children are prone to make messes and cause wear-and-tear in your home. One of the most common ways that a home shows its wear-and-tear is through the

For Blog April 5 Blog by Maryann SpadyBuying a home is a big decision, and for many, it can be a stressful process. You have to deal with everything from finding the right home to securing,

Selling your home can be challenging, emotional, and stressful, especially if it takes longer than expected. You may feel the pressure of carrying two mortgages or the weight of uncertainty about

April is stress awareness month, and as a Realtor® I am aware that selling your home can be a very stressful experience. From packing your belongings to finding a reliable buyer, it can be

I grew up in Southern Oregon, where early on my parents began to teach me about Native American Culture. We would visit The Favell Museum where I was introduced to Native American artifacts. In

As I’ve researched the amazing women in Oregon’s history I have been so surprised by the number of firsts, and today I have the opportunity to introduce you to another first. Say hello

In last week’s blog post I introduced you to Berthenia Owens-Adair who was the first woman in Oregon to practice medicine. Today I’m going to introduce you to Lola Greene Baldwin who

Berthenia Owens-Adair is someone I would consider amazing. Her young life was filled with struggles. Born in 1840 she traveled with her family to Oregon on the Oregon Trail at just three years old.

Tabitha Moffit Brown was honored by the Oregon Legislature in 1987 as the “Mother of Oregon”. She traveled the Oregon trail in 1846 with her son and aging, ailing brother-in-law.

In today’s Instagram post you’ll learn a little about the first African Americans in Oregon - the first being Markus Lopius in 1788. These early African Americans paved the way for those

There have been times in the past where African American and white Oregonians have struggled to get along. Yet there have also been times when they have come together for the greater good of our

Oregon is certainly gaining recognition as a top-tier wine region, but it's not quite the same as France yet. Oregon wineries specialize in cool-climate wines like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and

When it comes to African Americans and the Oregon Legislature, traveloregon.com features three influential leaders each for different reasons: Margaret Carter, Avel Gordly and Jackie Winters

Growing up in Klamath Falls, meant we always had to travel to see my Grandparents. The trips were not day trips because one set of Grandparents lived two hours away while the other lived three hours

February is Black History Month, and I decided that I wanted to educate myself on some of Oregon’s African American History. Today I’m going to introduce you to Letitia Carson, and her

I love when I walk into a space that is not only organized, but it’s beautiful too. The problem is I don’t always know how to pull it off. Have you ever felt that way? Well, thanks to

A new year brings with it new home interior design trends, and 2023 is no different. When I started to research some of this year's trends I found that some made complete sense, while others I am

CAN A COMMAND HOOK HELP YOU ORGANIZE YOUR HOME?My daughter recently moved into her first apartment with her fiance and step-daughter. She is the type of person who needs to have artwork and familiar

   IT’S TIME TO THROW IT AWAY!One easy way to declutter is to throw away ALL of the items you don’t need, aren’t using, won’t fit into, have expired, etc. We all

Twenty-three years ago the Pantone Color Institute created an educational program for the design community and color enthusiasts around the world. They wanted a way to create a conversation around

IT’S GET ORGANIZED MONTH!January always brings with it the desire to start fresh. Be it your health, relationship, financial, getting organized, etc. I’m sure this is why someone decided

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and one of my favorite things to do, like it is for many of you, is t go around and look at all the different Christmas light displays.  So I

December is here and I know that you are getting ready for the holidays, however there are still some home maintenance items that you'll want to check off your list.Prepare for all the new gifts you

For many it's tradition to head out to a local Christmas tree farm and cut down your Christmas tree the weekend after Thanksgiving.  If you're like me, it isn't until after Thanksgiving before

As we move into the winter months, you might be looking at your flooring and realize it's time for an update. You've done your research and have narrowed it down to tile vs. laminate. But you&rsquo

Are you at a place in life where you feel like you should have purchased your first home already?  You may not be alone.  According to the National Association of Realtors the average age

National Author Day is November 1st and I’ve been reminiscing on the stories of one of my favorite authors who also happens to have been born in McMinnville, Oregon, however lived in the small

Selling your home is an emotional process.  You decide to put it on the market, you accept an offer, make it through the inspection and appraisal periods when you realize you're about to leave

If you’ve ever thought about this question you are not alone.  It’s one of the first questions I get asked when I meet with potential buyers, and I completely understand. 

You’ve heard the saying “Kitchens & bathrooms sell a home”, and if we’re being honest they do because they are the spaces that we spend a lot of time in when you consider

You may not be ready for it however, 2023 is just three and a half months away.  Which also means there are some new home decor trends to talk about, and some of these may delight you while

While I'm not ready to say goodbye to summer, I can feel the cool, crisp fall air during my morning walks.  It makes me realize that before too long, it will be time to head out to one of the

Over the weeks, I’ve been blogging about some amazing parks and trails in the Hillsboro, Oregon area.  I love that each of these parks/trails offers something different, and Orchard

Are you looking for an extraordinary park?  If you answered yes, then be prepared to fall in love with Griffin Oaks Park's eight-acre park.!  The park features the following amazing

Kingfisher Marsh and Pintail Pond Loop are a part of the 635-acre Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve.  The 1.5-mile trail is extremely popular for birdwatchers, trail runners, and,

There are times in life when you need to take a break in nature but don’t have much time to do so.  If you find yourself in this position, then the one-mile Rood Bridge Loop, which takes

Rock Creek Trail is a part of the Hillsboro Parks and Recreation and the Tualatin Hills Parks & Rec District.  Today I am focusing on the Hillsboro portion of the trail that goes from

Oregon is known for its amazing outdoor adventures, and for the outdoor lover, the Portland Metro Tri-Counties area can be a dream come true thanks to all of the hiking trails. From beginner to more