All the data in this post is broken down by neighborhood by ZIP code to help you zoom in on the exact places where you might want to buy or sell a home. Each snapshot covers the same categories, so you can easily compare them. If you have any questions or want to dig even deeper into the data, your trusted real estate agent is the perfect person to ask.

Market Profile – North Albany, OR 97321 (Benton County)

First up is the North Albany, OR 97321 ZIP code, located in Benton County:

• In North Albany, OR 97321, the median sales price was $475,000, with 10 closed sales in the most recent data.

• The median sold $/square foot checked in at $237 for North Albany, OR 97321.

• There were 21 new listings in North Albany, OR 97321, and homes spent a median of 87 days on the market before sale.

• Active inventory for North Albany, OR 97321 was at 36 units.

We remain in Albany for our second snapshot, this time for Albany, OR 97322 in Linn County:

• The median sales price for Albany, OR 97322 was $421,245. There were 38 closed sales in this ZIP code.

• The median sold $/square foot was $278.

• There were 47 new listings in Albany, OR 97322, and homes spent a median of 79 days on the market before sale.

• Active inventory for Albany, OR 97322 checked in at 88 units.

Market Profile – Corvallis, OR 97330 (Benton County)

Next up is Corvallis, and for this analysis, we'll be focusing on the Corvallis, OR 97330 ZIP code:

• The median sales price for Corvallis, OR 97330 was $570,000. There were 21 closed sales in this ZIP code.

• The median sold $/square foot for Corvallis, OR 97330 was $278.

• There were 39 new listings in this ZIP code, and homes spent a median of 102 days on the market before sale.

• Active inventory for Corvallis, OR 97330 was 73 units.

Market Profile – Lebanon, OR 97355 (Linn County)

Finally, we delve into the data for Lebanon, OR 97355, which covers the city and some surrounding areas:

• The median sales price in Lebanon, OR 97355 was $337,645, and there were 14 closed sales in this ZIP code.

• The median sold $/square foot for Lebanon, OR 97355 was $254.

• There were 29 new listings in Lebanon, OR 97355, and homes spent a median of 73 days on the market before sale.

• Active inventory for Lebanon, OR 97355 was 46 units.

Shop for Albany and Corvallis Homes with Help from the Local Experts

Ready to plan your next steps? Check our new listings in Albany, new listings in Corvallis, and new listings in Lebanon/Sweet Home to find your match. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

Have you been thinking of buying a home in Albany or Corvallis? In addition to the financial, personal, and family benefits of owning a home, it's well worth considering the extensive social benefits of homeownership. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has an excellent research report titled "Social Benefits of Homeownership and Stable Housing," which we'll use for our analysis today. Our real estate agents have more on the social benefits of owning a home, including some that might surprise you.

Looking Past the Price Tag: The Broader Impact of Homeownership

Stable Neighborhoods and Lasting Relationships

According to the NAR report, renters are about five times more likely to move in a given year than people who own a home. So one key benefit of owning a home is that it leads to more stable, established neighborhoods, where neighbors can build relationships over time, ultimately strengthening the community. The personal relationships you build with neighbors are valuable on an individual level, of course, and they also help create the tight-knit feel of a neighborhood where everyone knows one another.

Educational Achievement

Stability isn't just good for creating strong neighborhoods. At the family level, the stability of owning a home is also tied to educational achievement for kids, according to a variety of studies cited in the NAR report. Changing schools, making new friends, getting to know new teachers, and finding ways to fit in can all be stressful experiences for kids. The stability of owning a home, attending the same schools, growing up with the same friends, and feeling comfortable in their environment can all help kids thrive academically.

Parenting and Family Stability

You've likely noticed by now that stability is key to unlocking the social benefits of owning a home, and that extends to parenting, too. The financial stability and credit options that come with owning a home are key reasons why. When families are financially stable, parents traditionally have more time to devote to kids and more ways to manage financial hardships if they do arise. At the community level, strengthening neighborhoods through homeownership also contributes to positive outcomes for kids.

Civic Engagement

Homeowners have a real stake in their communities, both in living conditions and in the financial benefits of better neighborhoods, which lead to higher home values. This often leads homeowners to be involved in their community in a variety of ways:

• Volunteering
• Participating in local government
• Joining community organizations
• Helping organize fun, local events

The social benefits of this civic engagement are often wide-ranging, for both the individual and the community.

Health Benefits

Homeowners also have a greater stake in their homes than renters, which often leads to better maintenance and living conditions. The potential health benefits of living in a clean, well-maintained home are many, both mentally and physically. The financial stability of homeownership can also be a major asset if any health issues do arise.

Crime Prevention

When homeowners live in stable neighborhoods with strong relationships and significant stakes in their communities, it's only natural that they care about helping prevent crime. Homeowners often contribute by joining voluntary neighborhood watch programs or by simply keeping a close eye on the neighborhood each day.

Discover the Benefits of Owning a Home in 2026

Are you ready to turn your dream of owning a home into a reality? Start your search with our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis to find your match. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

The vibrant arts community of the Willamette Valley is always on display around Albany and Corvallis, with so many great places to appreciate art in any way you like. From galleries highlighting talented, local artists to live performances and creative spaces where you can make your own art, there are so many different ways to immerse yourself in the arts. Our real estate agents have more information for you in our look at the best art and culture destinations around Albany and Corvallis.

Explore Performances and Galleries Around Albany and Corvallis

Albany Arts Commission – Albany, OR

Address: 333 Broadalbin St. SW, Albany, OR 97321

The Albany Arts Commission oversees public art around Albany and is particularly involved with the public art projects at City Hall. During any visit to City Hall, you'll see a wide range of art displayed on the walls, typically highlighting the work of local artists. For winter 2026, you can see a colorful collection of avian art from artist Dominique Bachelet.

Gallery Calapooia – Albany, OR

Address: 222 W. 1st Ave., Albany, OR 97321

An artist cooperative featuring 21 local artists in a wide variety of artistic media, Gallery Calapooia is an excellent place to purchase art for your home or simply browse the art to see the amazing talents of local artists on display. They also offer art classes and other fun events, such as artist receptions for the opening of new exhibitions.

Calapooia Clay – Albany, OR

Address: 1533 SE 7th Ave., Albany, OR 97321

Interested in learning to create your own art in a fun, inviting environment? Calapooia Clay is a community clay studio where you can learn to work with clay, even if you're totally new to it. They offer a variety of classes for all ages, from beginner classes to help you learn the ropes to more advanced classes to further develop your skills.

The Arts Center – Corvallis, OR

Address: 700 SW Madison Ave., Corvallis, OR 97333

If you're searching for art classes in Corvallis, don't miss the chance to visit The Arts Center. They offer classes covering everything from the basics of creating gallery art to advanced drawing sessions with expert instructors. They also have fun extra events like Pinot & Paint and their monthly free crafting event, 2nd Saturdays at TAC.

Art In The Valley Gallery – Corvallis, OR

Address: 209 SW 2nd St., Corvallis, OR 97333

Corvallis has its own artist cooperative with the Art In The Valley Gallery, which is a fantastic place to visit if you like seeing many different types of art in one place. They have paintings, photography, sculpture, jewelry, glass, ceramics, and more, all produced by local artists and available for purchase for your home. The walls here are updated with new art on the first Monday of every month.

PRAx – Corvallis, OR

Address: 470 SW 15th St., Corvallis, OR 97331

Located on the OSU campus, PRAx (Patricia Valian Reser Center for the Creative Arts) is an outstanding destination for live artistic performances, including theater, music, and dance. They also host several art classes, many of which are open to the public, as well as lectures from leading experts on art topics both modern and historic.

Find a Home That Inspires With Help from Our Team

Searching for a home where you can display your favorite art, be inspired by great views, or have your own little art studio? Start your search with our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis to find your match. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

It's natural to want to maximize your home's appeal before listing it for sale in Albany or Corvallis, but are bigger renovations worth the cost? The latest Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) helps answer that question, and we'll use their data to highlight key areas of the home you might consider renovating. Our real estate agents can also provide insight into local market trends and buyer demand to help you determine whether renovating before selling in 2026 could maximize your return.

When Renovating Is the Right Decision

Why Consider Renovations Before Selling

The main reason people choose to renovate before selling is to maximize the home's value and appeal. However, the return on investment you can expect will often vary significantly based on the type of renovations that you choose. In the NAR study, some of the most valuable renovation and remodeling projects were actually smaller ones, where a minimal investment can make a big difference. When planning larger renovations, choosing the right rooms to update is crucial.

How Smaller Renovations Help Sell Homes

The NAR study estimates the cost recovery you can expect from different home upgrades or changes. The best cost recovery, at 100 percent, comes from adding a new steel front door, and a new fiberglass front door is close behind at 80 percent. Also finishing in the top three was a closet renovation, at 83 percent. Replacing a door is a relatively low-cost remodeling project that can really boost curb appeal. While a more involved project, a closet renovation is still significantly smaller in scale than redoing a kitchen or bathroom.

For Bigger Projects, Consider Adding More Living Space

Larger projects rarely fully recover their costs at resale, but some certainly stand out for adding more value than others. The most popular big projects were converting the basement to a living area (71 percent cost recovery) and converting the attic to a living area (67 percent cost recovery). Interestingly, for kitchens, both a complete kitchen renovation and a minor kitchen upgrade scored the same on cost recovery, at 60 percent. That makes kitchens the most popular spot for major renovations, after adding more living space.

The Value of Improving Energy Efficiency

Also scoring very well in the NAR study were adding new vinyl windows (74 percent cost recovery) and adding new wood windows (71 percent cost recovery). The cost recovery of these upgrades highlights the value of considering energy efficiency when upgrading a home before sale. Whether a buyer is conscious of energy use or simply likes to save money, energy efficiency has real value to most buyers. Replacing all the windows is a big project, but smaller, more budget-friendly efficiency upgrades can still add value.

The Bottom Line on Renovating Before Sale

Ultimately, whether you renovate before sale depends on the home's amenities, condition, and appeal. As the NAR study highlights, most renovations don't recoup their full cost, but they can still be valuable tools for selling your home. The best solution is to work with a trusted real estate agent who can advise you on the best path forward for your unique home.

Find Your Next Home with Help from Our Team

Are you searching for a new home while you list your current home for sale? Check our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis for the best local homes. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

No matter your real estate goals in 2026 throughout Albany and Corvallis, your real estate agent should be your greatest advocate in reaching those goals. A recent article from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) highlights the most important traits of agents to both buyers and sellers. Our real estate agents have more on what the data revealed, and why it's so important to find the right agent for your needs, especially as you prepare to tackle your real estate goals in 2026.

The Importance of a Real Estate Agent in 2026

Guidance for First-Time Buyers

The most commonly cited trait for buyers in the NAR article, at 61 percent, was "helping the buyer understand the process," and this was especially popular among inexperienced buyers. Buying a home can be an intimidating task when you haven't done it before, and the right agent can walk you through every step so that you can feel confident in your decisions.

Learning About Neighborhoods and Finding the Right Home

While it's easy to look at homes online, finding the right home for your needs in the right location is most efficiently accomplished with the help of your real estate agent. Across all age groups, 50 percent of buyers said that learning about neighborhoods and identifying the right home are among the most important things that an agent can assist with during the purchasing process. An agent's local knowledge and experience can reveal so much more than just a simple online search.

A Trusted Advocate for Negotiations

Whether buying or selling, all clients preferred agents who could help them navigate the negotiation process and ultimately secure the best terms for their purchase or sale. This was one trait that both new and experienced clients sought across all demographics.

An Experienced Eye to Analyze Properties

Both buyers and sellers appreciate having an experienced, trusted second set of eyes when looking at a property. For buyers, an agent can help identify issues that might make the home less appealing and highlight positive features they might miss. For sellers, an agent can help you see the home through a buyer's eyes, identifying areas that could be repaired, improved, or touched up to maximize its appeal.

Picking a Price and Facilitating a Fast Sale

For sellers specifically, two traits stood out in the NAR survey. More than 20 percent of sellers identified both selling the home within a specific time-frame and picking the right price as key traits in an agent. This was the highest percentage among all answers for sellers and shows how much they value a fast, efficient sale.

Helping Your Home Stand Out When Selling

The other key trait for sellers was helping the home stand out. The right mix of online and traditional marketing, along with home preparation, is essential to achieving your goals when selling a home.

While 2026 is just getting started, now is the time to start weighing your options and deciding how you can accomplish your real estate goals.

Searching for the right agent to help you buy or sell a home? Our team is ready to help guide you through the entire process. Check out our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis to find your next home. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the area.

Winter is a wonderful time to explore the Oregon coast, with stunning seasonal scenery, endless natural beauty, and tons of new adventures all season long. In addition to all of the great events that you can find around Albany and Corvallis, there are plenty more exciting winter adventures to discover nearby, perfect for a weekend getaway. Our real estate agents have more on some of the best adventures for winter weekends close to Albany and Corvallis.

Winter Weekend Adventures Near Albany & Corvallis

Newport Seafood & Wine Festival – Newport, OR

Address: 2126 SE Marine Science Dr., Newport, OR 97365

A local tradition that's nearing its 50th anniversary, the Newport Seafood & Wine Festival returns for four days of food, music, and shopping from February 19-22, 2026. Located in the "Dungeness crab capital of the world," this event celebrates Oregon's vibrant culinary culture and the wonderful wineries producing award-winning wines close to home. Under the big, heated tent that houses the event, you'll find wine from more than 50 Pacific Northwest wineries, fantastic seafood from 20 top chefs based on the Oregon coast, and more than 70 Pacific Northwest artisans where you can shop for unique finds.

Each day of the event also features live music all day long, including performances from many performers based in Oregon. New this year will be the Raw-some Bar, a seafood raw bar experience with fresh clams, oysters, and more. Purchase a ticket for one day, grab a full weekend pass, or pick up a weekend VIP pass for tons of unique perks. Some VIP passes are only available online before the event, and all tickets are discounted if you purchase before the event, so it's worth grabbing your tickets in advance.

Big Blue Film Fest – Newport, OR

Address: 777 W Olive St., Newport, OR 97365

Film lovers looking for a cozy winter getaway on the Oregon coast will want to plan a weekend around the Big Blue Film Fest. Taking place January 23–24, 2026, this annual festival celebrates independent films that explore ocean themes, coastal culture, environmental stories, and life by the sea.

Screenings are held at the Newport Performing Arts Center and the Hatfield Marine Science Center and feature a mix of documentaries from filmmakers across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. 

Search for Finders Keepers Floats – Lincoln City, OR

Address: 5901 NW Logan Rd., Lincoln City, OR 97367

With over 7 miles of beautiful beaches, Lincoln City is also home to a unique Oregon tradition. Throughout the year, including all winter long, the "float fairies" place gorgeous, handblown glass floats at hidden locations all around the beach. You can search for Finders Keepers floats throughout the winter along Lincoln City's beaches, and any that you find are yours to keep. Each float is a great conversation piece and a beautiful decoration for your home.

Throughout the year, the float fairies also have special drop dates when you'll find more floats than usual on the beach, and the floats for special drops often have a unique theme that ties into a local event happening during the winter. For this winter, the special drop dates are for Opening Weekend from January 9-11, 2026, when 100 floats will be dropped, and the Retro Expo from February 6-16, 2026, when 100 Japanese-style floats will be dropped.

Hunt for Treasures on the Trails – Yachats, OR

Address: Multiple Locations, Yachats, OR 97498

Not satisfied with one treasure hunt? You can also hunt for treasures on the trails in Yachats, with their annual mushroom treasure hunt. Every Saturday throughout the winter, handcrafted mushroom sculptures are placed on the trails around Yachats for adventurers to discover. This year's mushrooms were created by local artisans, including Paris Birdwell Designs, Billow Cloud Soaps, and Swallows Nest Homemade. Just like the glass floats in Lincoln City, any mushroom sculptures that you find are yours to keep and display in your home.

Planning to spend some of your winter weekends shopping for a home in 2026? Find your match with our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis this winter. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

Planning to buy or sell a home in Albany or Corvallis in 2026? Understanding the overall market trends – including whether it's a buyer's or seller's market – is one of the keys to your preparation, because it can have a significant impact on nearly every step of the process. Our real estate agents have more on whether it's a buyer's market, and how that can impact your real estate plans.

The Differences Between a Buyer's and Seller's Market

The first step is understanding the difference between a buyer's and seller's market. In a buyer's market, there are significantly more people selling homes than there are buyers on the market. Higher inventory and lower demand typically mean that buyers will have an advantage in negotiations when the market is trending this way.

In a seller's market, the opposite is true. There are significantly more people browsing homes for sale than there are available properties on the market, which typically gives sellers the upper hand. With more buyer demand than there are homes available, buyers may have to make concessions in order to close the deal in a seller's market.

What's the Forecast for 2026?

According to the latest data from CNBC, there were 36.8 percent more sellers than buyers in US real estate markets during October 2025. Both housing prices and overall economic uncertainty are contributing factors to the buyer's market. With such a strong buyer's market to close out 2025, that trend is likely to be sustained through the early part of 2026, especially if Federal Interest Rates continue to be lowered. 

Tips for Sellers in a Buyer's Market

For sellers, a buyer's market does create some challenges that differ from what you'd experience in a neutral or seller's market. However, there's still plenty you can do to help your listing stand out from the rest:

• Bring out the best in your home. Curb appeal, staging, and the overall condition of the property can all help attract more motivated buyers.

• Work with a great real estate agent. From pricing the home to marketing and more, your agent can make a huge difference in a buyer's market.

• Be realistic about pricing. Your agent can help you pick a price that maximizes return, while remaining competitive.

• Have patience, but be ready to act. Homes may spend more time on the market in a buyer's market, so it's important to be ready when a competitive offer is made.

Searching for your next home to start 2026? Check our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis to find your match. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

Decorating for the holidays is one of the joys of the season around Albany and Corvallis, but it's important to remember good safety practices while you deck your home out for the season. It only takes a few extra minutes to practice good safety habits, which is time well spent if it helps protect your home and family during the holidays. Our real estate agents are here to help, with practical tips on safe holiday decorating.

Holiday Decorating Safety Tips

Inspect Decorations

Hanging lights is one of the best parts of decorating for the holidays, but old or broken lights can also be a serious safety risk. Always check your lights for broken bulbs, cracked sockets, damaged wires, or loose connections. Discarding and replacing broken lights before you start decorating is key for safety. Inspect other decorations before placing them as well, especially any decoration with lights or electrical connections.

Practice Ladder Safety

Decorating safely isn't just about protecting your home. When it comes to ladder safety, it's also about protecting yourself. Always inspect your ladder before use, and make sure it's placed on a stable, level surface before climbing. When climbing, wear shoes with a good grip, avoid using ladders outdoors in bad weather, and always maintain three points of contact (hands and feet) on the ladder. For added safety, make sure at least one other person is nearby in case of emergency.

Prevent Electrical Overloads

With so many lights and other powered decorations, electrical overloads are a real risk when decorating for the holidays. The most common cause for electrical overloads is plugging too many items into one electrical socket, often by using added connectors or power strips. Reduce your risk by planning your decorating based on the available number of outlets and spreading your electrical connections around accordingly. If pressed for outlet space, you can use an extension cord to plug into a more distant outlet, rather than overloading a closer, more convenient one.

Use Outdoor Decorations Correctly

Many types of outdoor decorations can cause safety risks if used incorrectly. Always read instructions before placing outdoor decorations, especially for larger and powered decorations. Inspect outdoor decorations before placing them, and always avoid placing decorations in locations near power lines. For inflatables and other large outdoor decorations, make sure that they're always secured properly to the ground. Protect yourself, as well, by asking for help moving and placing large, heavy, or awkwardly shaped outdoor decorations.

Be Cautions With Candles

Candles are great for adding atmosphere, but they can also create fire risks in the home. Always keep candles away from other decorations, and never light a candle near your tree. Instead, keep candles in safe places where they're unlikely to be knocked over. Check that candles, lighters, and matches are kept out of reach of children. Always make sure that candles are blown out before leaving the home or going to sleep for the evening.

Safe Storage and Cleanup for Decorations

When cleaning up decorations, make sure to practice the same ladder and personal safety tips that we've covered so far. Separate and organize decorations as you store them, to reduce fire risk and keep them safe for next year. For smaller decorations, plastic containers with dividers are a great option. They're easy to move, stackable, and keep your decorations safe.

Shopping for a home where your family can enjoy future holiday seasons? Start your search with our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis to find your match. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR region.

All of the data in this post is broken down by neighborhood via ZIP code, to help you zoom in on the exact places where you might want to buy or sell a home. Each snapshot covers the same categories, so you can easily compare them. If you have any questions or want to dig even deeper into the data, your trusted real estate agent is the perfect person to ask.

Market Profile – North Albany, OR 97321 (Benton County)

Our first two entries both cover the Albany area, starting with North Albany, OR 97321:

• The median sales price for the 97321 ZIP code was $507,750.

• There were 14 closed sales in North Albany, with $294 median sold $/square foot.

• There were 11 new listings in the 97321 ZIP code, with homes spending a median of 71 days on the market before sale.

• Active inventory for North Albany, OR 97321 was 32 units.

Market Profile – Albany, OR 97322 (Linn County)

Next up is Albany, OR 97322. Here's the latest data for this neighborhood:

• In our end-of-year data, the median sales price for the 97322 ZIP code was $399,950.

• Homes spent a median of 63 days on the market before sale in this ZIP code, and there were 63 new listings in the latest data.

• The median sold $/square foot for this neighborhood was $267, and there were 42 closed sales in the most recent data.

• Active inventory for Albany, OR 97322 checked in at 116 units.

Market Profile – Corvallis, OR 97330 (Benton County)

We move on to Corvallis for our next snapshot, with a closer look at the latest market trends for Corvallis, OR 97330:

• The median sales price in Corvallis, OR 97330 was $572,500, and there were 36 closed sales in the most recent data.

• For the 97330 ZIP code, the median sold $/square foot was $298.

• There were 31 new listings in the 97330 ZIP code, with homes here spending a median of 91 days on the market before sale.

• Active inventory for Corvallis, OR 97339 stood at 90 units.

Market Profile – Lebanon, OR 97355 (Linn County)

For our final snapshot, we'll take a deep dive into the data for Lebanon, OR 97355:

• The median sales price for Lebanon, OR 97355 checked in at $375,000, with a median sold $/square foot of $271.

• The number of new listings in the 97355 ZIP code was 22.

• There were 15 closed sales in Lebanon, OR 97355, and homes spent a median of 86 days on the market before being sold.

• Active inventory for Lebanon, OR 97355 was 56 units.

Planning to buy or sell an Oregon home to start 2026? Find your match with our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis. Ready to take the next steps toward your new home? Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the region.

The holiday season is a magical time in Albany and Corvallis, with plenty of fun and festive local events to help your family celebrate the season. During this time of year, some of our favorite destinations and parks turn into winter wonderlands. Our real estate agents have more on the best light displays and events around Albany for the 2025 holiday season.

Holiday Light Displays and Events Around Albany

Christmas Storybook Land – Albany, OR

Address: 3700 Knox Butte Rd. E., Albany, OR 97322

First up is an event that kids and parents are sure to love, with the return of Christmas Storybook Land at the Linn County Expo. Experience nursery rhymes, holiday movies, and fairy tales brought to life through dazzling displays in a magical indoor forest. The event also features holiday performances and fun, themed days, such as Star Wars Day. This year's Christmas Storybook Land will be open from November 29 – December 21, 2025, with extended hours on weekends.

Albany Christmas Lights Trail – Albany, OR

Address: Various Locations, Albany, OR

The Albany Christmas Lights Trail will take you on an enchanting journey through the community to discover beautiful holiday light installations at a variety of unique locations around Albany. Each year, the City of Albany posts a map of where to find the lights, which are often at points of interest around the city. The trail is typically open every year from late November through early January, with the lights starting every night at sundown. You can find this year's map and dates at the link above, when they're announced.

Pastega Christmas Lights – Albany, OR

Address: 3700 Knox Butte Rd. E., Albany, OR 97322

For decades, the famous Pastega Christmas Lights were hosted in Corvallis, but the event moved to a new location at the Linn County Expo in Albany for the 2024 holiday season. That new location remains in place for 2025, but you can still expect one of Oregon's best holiday light displays just like always. The cool thing about the new location is that the Pastega Christmas Lights are hosted in conjunction with Christmas Storybook Land, so that you can enjoy both great attractions in one convenient location. The display will be open from November 29 – December 21, 2025.

Cascade Christmas Lights – Lebanon, OR

Address: 312 E. Sherman St., Lebanon, OR 97355

Holiday light displays aren't just for big, public locations in Oregon communities. You'll also find homes where families have been creating dazzling displays for many years, like the Cascade Christmas Lights, which attract visitors from across the region. Stop by from Thanksgiving Weekend through all of December to see the new features and music for this year's display.

Holidays in the Park – Lebanon, OR

Address: 925 Park St., Lebanon, OR 97355

Our final event features a little something for everyone, with Holidays in the Park in Lebanon on December 6, 2025. Hosted at Ralston Park, this event features a variety of activities, starting with a holiday market where you can shop for gifts and enjoy festive holiday treats. There will be live entertainment throughout the day, meetings with Santa, and a Christmas tree lighting, leading up to the Twilight Parade, which caps off the event.

Searching for new listings in Albany or new listings in Corvallis, where your family can make holiday memories? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs, from looking at new listings in Lebanon to getting your current property ready to list. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the area.

Preparing your yard during the fall is essential for its long-term health, and a key step in setting yourself up for a successful planting season when spring returns. As with any region with a distinct, seasonal climate, it's important to keep the local conditions in mind when working on yard maintenance in Albany and Corvallis this fall. Our real estate agents have more on taking care of your yard this fall, including tips tailored to Oregon's fall climate.

Yard Maintenance Tips for Oregon's Fall Climate

Leaf and Debris Cleanup

Keeping your yard clear of leaves and debris is one of the most important steps that you can take for fall yard maintenance in Oregon. By clearing away leaves, you allow your plants and lawn to get the oxygen, sunlight, and moisture that they need to stay healthy through the dormant months. It's often easier to clear leaves and other debris periodically throughout the fall, rather than waiting until the yard is fully covered. Keeping debris cleared throughout the fall also ensures that your lawn and plants have access to nutrients throughout the season.

Also, be aware of our local leaf collection schedules, with Albany and Corvallis having their own collection days to help residents with this fall task.

• Albany/Lebanon leaf collection is offered in three rounds this season.
• Corvallis leaf collection is now through December 22.

Tree and Shrub Care

For fall tree and shrub care, pruning is an essential step in the process. Pruning trees and shrubs can help you shape them for the coming year and ensure they're ready to grow healthy again when spring arrives. When, where, and how much to prune depends on the types of trees and shrubs in your yard. You can find tips for specific species online or at your favorite gardening center.

Preventing Moss and Mold

When moss and mold gain a foothold, they can quickly spiral into a major headache. Leaf and debris cleanup can help with mold management by removing dark, damp places where mold can thrive. Pruning trees and shrubs allows more sunlight to get through, helping to eliminate dampness while keeping plants healthy.

For managing moss, lawn health is key. The exact needs will depend on your specific lawn, but consider aerating and fertilizing to keep your lawn healthy. Compost makes for great lawn fertilizer. You can also test and adjust the pH balance of your soil, as moss prefers more acidic conditions.

Outdoor Equipment and Irrigation

It's not just your plants, trees, lawn, and soil that deserve attention with fall yard maintenance. You'll also want to take care of your outdoor equipment and winterize your irrigation system. For outdoor equipment, consider the following steps:

• Clean equipment thoroughly to remove all grass, debris, and dirt. This helps prevent moisture buildup, reducing rust and unnecessary wear.

• After the equipment is cleaned, make sure to dry it thoroughly. Before you store items for the winter, check for damage and make needed repairs.

• For gas-powered equipment, service the engine, and either empty excess fuel or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent damage.

To winterize your irrigation system, you'll want to turn off the water supply, blow out all of the water in the system using an air compressor, and ensure that all components are properly drained. If you're unsure of how to winterize your irrigation system (or hoses), this is one area where it certainly doesn't hurt to call in the pros.

Dreaming of an Oregon home where you can enjoy your yard all year long? Try our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis to find your match. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

Ready to make the most of those beautiful fall days around Albany and Corvallis? Local farms don't just provide a wealth of fresh produce for the region. They also offer tons of fun fall activities, whether you're in the mood to visit the pumpkin patch, sample fresh fall food from the farm, or bring the little ones for a day of family-friendly outdoor fun. Our real estate agents have more on the best farms for fall fun near Albany and Corvallis.

Fall Activities Around Albany and Corvallis

River Rising Family Farm – Albany, OR

Address: 39129 Groshong Rd. NE, Albany, OR 97321

If you're searching for an outstanding farm for a family visit, then River Rising Family Farm is well worth a look. The pumpkin patch and corn maze are highlights of any visit, but kids also love meeting the farm animals. The goats here are especially popular for animal encounters. River Rising Family Farm is open every day from 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM, with fall activities and pumpkins available throughout October.

Kenagy Family Farm – Albany, OR

Address: 1650 NE North Nebergall Loop, Albany, OR 97321

The pumpkin patch at Kenagy Family Farm isn't just an excellent place to pick up pumpkins for fall decorating and cooking. The pumpkin patch here also raises money for good causes, with proceeds going to two local non-profits each year. It's open from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM starting on October 1, 2025, and the season lasts all of October until the pumpkins are gone. Planning, crafting, or woodworking projects? This farm also has an extensive selection of Oregon Native Hardwoods from a variety of different species, ideal for fall projects.

Bose Family Farm – Albany, OR

Address: 35765 Cyrus Rd. NE, Albany OR 97322

The annual Harvest Festival at Bose Family Farm takes place from September 26 – November 1, 2025, and is open every Thursday-Sunday during that time period. There are tons of activities to enjoy on the farm during the festival, including horse-drawn carriage rides from North Pine Carriage Co., a corn maze featuring creative designs, a pumpkin patch with a huge selection of different pumpkin varieties, and food vendors serving up fresh fall treats.

Peoria Road Farm Market – Corvallis, OR

Address: 33269 Peoria Rd, Corvallis, OR 97333

Looking for the perfect place to pick up fresh, locally grown produce this fall? Peoria Road Farm Market doesn't have fall outdoor activities like some of the other entries on our list, but they've got an awesome selection of produce featuring just about anything that's still in season. Searching for fall gifts? They've also got a great selection of flowers grown on the farm, and they hold a Holiday Craft Market every fall, which typically takes place in late November.

The Melon Shack – Corvallis, OR

Address: 3039 NE Garden Ave., Corvallis, OR 97330

The Melon Shack still offers a great selection of fresh watermelon, cantaloupe, and specialty melons during the early fall, before fully transitioning to their harvest season activities. These include a corn maze, which features a new design every fall, hayrides around the farm, train rides for kids, a thrilling super slide, a tire pyramid that kids love playing on, and, of course, visits to the pumpkin patch. In the mood for a scare? Their special Haunted Corn Maze is open every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday throughout October 2025.

Starting your home search this fall? Check out our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis to find your match. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR region.

Whether you're buying or selling, it's important to understand how interest rates impact each step of the process. This is true whether you're pursuing real estate goals in Albany and Corvallis, or anywhere else. Our real estate agents have more on the way that today's interest rates shape the housing market and how that affects you.

How Today's Interest Rates Are Shaping the Housing Market

Impact on Homebuyers

For homebuyers, the impact of interest rates can be significant. A higher interest rate means a higher overall cost for the home, higher monthly mortgage payments, and more of each payment going toward interest.

Given the impact of interest rate increases, locking in an interest rate while shopping for a home is a preferred option for many homebuyers. This is one reason why many buyers opt for a fixed-rate mortgage, rather than an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM), where rising interest rates can have a significant impact on your budget.

Impact on Sellers

Interest rates can have a substantial impact on sellers, as well. Given that increases in interest rates lead to higher costs and lower buying power for buyers, rate increases can cause lower demand for homes. In an environment with higher interest rates, sellers may need to offer concessions or offer a buy-down to help the buyer achieve lower interest rates on their mortgage. When purchasing power for buyers is lower, pricing your home competitively becomes even more important.

Affordability and Buying Power

To illustrate the impact of even a small change in interest rates, it helps to have a direct comparison. Mortgage Calculator is a free tool to compare mortgages, which we used to compare two 30-year, fixed-rate loans with a $400,000 principal and slightly different interest rates. The difference is significant:

• With a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage at a $400,000 principal and 7.0 percent APR, the monthly payment comes out to $2,661.21, and the total interest equates to $558,035.59.

• Drop the interest rate slightly to a 6.0 percent APR, and the difference is substantial. The monthly payment decreases to $2,398.20, and the total interest drops to $463,352.76.

Given the critical importance of interest rates, there's a saying in real estate that you marry the home, and date the rate. In other words, you buy the home now, and refinance your mortgage later when rates are more favorable.

Long-Term Perspective

One thing to keep in mind with interest rates is that, despite short-term fluctuations, real estate remains a strong long-term investment. A helpful chart from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis illustrates how rates for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage have evolved over time:

• In the early 1980s, rates climbed as high as more than 17.5 percent early in the decade, before declining over the next 10 years.

• Throughout the 1990s, rates mostly stayed within a window of 7.5 percent to 10 percent, showing significantly less variation than the previous decade.

• From the first decade of the 2000s, the story was quite similar in terms of low fluctuation. However, this time rates hovered between 5 percent and 7.5 percent.

So, why does real estate remain a strong investment despite interest rate fluctuations? Consider the value of the financial opportunities that you unlock as you build equity in the home, and the long-term appreciation in home values over time.

In a challenging rate environment, it's crucial to seek help from experts, including your real estate agent and lender. Ready to shop for your next home? Start with our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis. Then contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

In addition to all you can discover in Albany and Corvallis, homes here are located a short drive from Oregon's Wine Country. There, you'll find a fantastic collection of wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms, where you can try award-winning wines produced close to home. Our real estate agents have more on Oregon wineries perfect for a day trip.

Explore Oregon's Wine Country

Springhill Cellars – Albany, OR

Address: 2920 NW Scenic Dr., Albany, OR 97321

Looking for a winery where you can host a fall event? Springhill Cellars offers a tasting room open every weekend, as well as indoor and outdoor event spaces perfect for gatherings of a variety of sizes. Plan a party in the tasting room, or outdoors surrounded by views of beautiful, tree-lined hills.

Willamette Valley Vineyards – Turner, OR

Address: 8800 Enchanted Way SE, Turner, OR 97392

For more than 40 years, the team at Willamette Valley Vineyards has worked to produce some of America's best Pinot Noir wines, with owner and Oregon native Jim Bernau leading the way. As one of the region's leading Pinot Noir producers, this Oregon winery is well worth a visit.

Hudak House – Salem, OR

Address: 5737 Orchard Heights Rd. NW, Salem, OR 97304

Owned and operated locally by a husband-and-wife team, Hudak House prides itself on creating wines grown and produced in the Willamette Valley. Their Tasting Room is open every Friday-Sunday, where you can sample their wines with the beautiful, rolling hills of Oregon's Wine Country to set the scene.

Broadley Vineyards – Monroe, OR

Address: 265 S. 5th St., Monroe, OR 97456

With a scenic, 33-acre vineyard located along the Long Tom River, Broadley Vineyards has been producing outstanding wine for nearly 40 years. They specialize in Pinot Noir, Gamay Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris, using grapes grown locally with sustainable practices. Visit for a tasting and a stroll around the verdant property.

Bluebird Hill Cellars – Monroe, OR

Address: 25059 Larson Rd., Monroe, OR 97456

Bluebird Hill Cellars produces handcrafted wines in small batches, with a process that combines traditional techniques with modern winemaking standards. They source most of their grapes from their own vineyard, with additional grapes coming from other Willamette Valley producers. Their Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays have both won many awards over the years.

Walnut Ridge Vineyard – Junction City, OR

Address: 94739 Turnbow Ln., Junction City, OR 97448

Looking for a vineyard where you can enjoy an outdoor tasting on a beautiful fall day? The Tasting Room at Walnut Ridge Vineyard might be just the place for you. It's got 360-degree views of the vineyard all around, with both indoor and outdoor seating options available. The Tasting Room is modeled after a historic, 1700s New Orleans building, and offers an awesome atmosphere for an evening out.

Brigadoon Wine Co. – Junction City, OR

Address: 25167 Ferguson Rd., Junction City, OR 97448

Every decision at Brigadoon Wine Co., from how the soil is prepped to when and where the grapes are planted, is made with careful consideration toward producing some of the best wines in Oregon. They wait until just the right time to harvest, and the slightly cooler temperatures at this vineyard mean that the growing season lasts just a bit longer. Grapes are then picked at the optimal time to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

Ready to find your next home? Start with our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis to find your match. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

Summer Market Update: Albany, Corvallis, and Lebanon 

In this post, we'll look at key data compiled from this summer, broken down by ZIP code, touching on some of the most popular places to buy and sell homes in the region. Whether you're buying a home now, selling a home now, or simply thinking ahead to consider your options for the future, data can aid in guiding your decisions with the help of your real estate agent.

Market Profile – Albany, OR 97321

First up is Albany, OR 97321. All data in every section is up to date as of August 6, 2025.

• The median sales price in the 97321 ZIP code was $660,000.
• That median came from 6 closed sales, and equates to $295 median sold $/square foot.
• There were 14 new listings in this neighborhood of Albany, and homes spent a median of 68 days on the market before sale.
• Active inventory as of August 6 was 32 units.

Market Profile – Albany, OR 97322

Next, we take a closer look at Albany, OR 97322.

• For the 97322 ZIP code, the median sales price was $460,500.
• There were 72 new listings in this ZIP code, with homes spending a median of 72 days on the market before sale.
• With 52 closed sales, the median sold $/square foot was $289.
• Active inventory for the 97322 ZIP code stood at 108 units.

Market Profile – Corvallis, OR 97330

We turn our attention toward Corvallis, with a look at Corvallis, OR 97330.

• With 31 closed sales, the median sales price here was $575,059.
• The median sold $/square foot for the 97330 ZIP code was $312.
• There were 70 new listings in this neighborhood of Corvallis, and homes spent a median of 68 days on the market before sale.
• Active inventory for the 97330 ZIP code was 104 units.

Market Profile – Lebanon, OR 97355

The final data snapshot of our Summer Market Update is for Lebanon, OR 97355, which covers all of Lebanon.

• There were 16 closed sales in Lebanon, with a median sales price of $377,450 and a median sold $/square foot of $280.
• Homes spent a median of 44 days on the market before sale in Lebanon, and there were 32 new listings as of August 6.
• Active inventory for Lebanon checked in at 49 units.

Shopping for a home this fall? Start with our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis to find your match. Ready to plan the next steps toward your real estate goals? Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the area.

The Albany and Corvallis area is home to a vibrant collection of craft breweries, offering a wide range of activities for you to enjoy throughout the year. Summer is an excellent time for a visit, with many local craft breweries creating special releases for the summer, complemented by fun special events, live entertainment, and great food to pair with your craft beer. Our real estate agents have more on local craft breweries around Albany and Corvallis, perfect for a visit this summer.

• Dirt Road Brewing – 1301 Main St., Philomath, OR, 97370
  Dirt Road Brewing recently underwent a major expansion and renovation, adding even more of what you already loved about the venue. The pub now has three times its former seating capacity, a new, second bar, an updated dining menu to pair with your favorite craft beers, and increased space for private events. Order one of their summer special releases, and pair it with one of the excellent pizzas on the menu. They also offer weekly events, including Trivia Tuesday, Thirsty Thursday, and Flannel Friday.

• Deluxe Brewing Company – 635 NE Water Ave., Albany, OR 97321
  Looking for a brewery that specializes in easy-drinking craft beers? Deluxe Brewing Company aims to create lagers and ales that offer smooth sipping, perfect for enjoying on a sunny summer day. At their tasting room, you don't just have access to the latest releases from Deluxe. They partner with Sinister Distilling Company, with a variety of small-batch, handcrafted spirits for you to sample when you visit. Can't make it out to the tasting room? They also offer local delivery in the Albany area.

• Tallman Brewing – 2055 Primrose St., Lebanon, OR 97355
  Planning a summer event in Lebanon? Tallman Brewing offers great event spaces at their scenic pub, whether you're planning a family gathering, work event, or get-together with friends. It's also an outstanding option to visit when you're hungry, as there are 10 food trucks here offering a wide range of cuisine to pair with the distinctive craft beers created by Tallman Brewing.

• Barsideous Brewing – 644 S. Main St., Lebanon, OR 97355
  Barsideous Brewing has been a local favorite in Lebanon since opening its doors more than 10 years ago, with owners who grew up in the community and love serving a creative, adventurous lineup of craft beers. It's also got a fantastic location, with a tasting room in the historic Lebanon Gem Theater that offers an excellent atmosphere, indoor/outdoor seating, and a stage perfect for live entertainment. Be sure to check out our new listings in Lebanon while you're in the area.

• Sky High Brewing & Pub – 160 NW Jackson Ave., Corvallis, OR 97330
  If you're looking for a craft brewery in Corvallis that has it all, then it's tough to top the experience at Sky High Brewing & Pub. Their four-story brewery and pub offers a setting for every mood, with ample outdoor seating so you can savor every beautiful summer day. Enjoy one of their excellent craft beers on the patio, or head up to the rooftop bar for drinks with amazing views of Corvallis all around you. There's even a heated porch, so the fun doesn't stop even as summer winds down. The pub features an excellent lunch/dinner menu as well, whether you're in the mood for a sandwich or a fresh, local seafood plate.

Searching for your next home this summer? Start with our new listings in Albany and new listings in Corvallis to find the right match. Then contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

Moving into a new home in Albany or Corvallis is such an exciting time, with so much to look forward to as you settle into your new community. Of course, getting settled in is much easier when you take care of the priorities quickly and make sure that your new home is ready for you in all of the most important ways. Our real estate agents are here to help, with a closer look at 5 essential things to do when you move into a new home.

1. Secure Your Home
   Securing your home is an important first step, and there are a few things to keep in mind here. Make sure that all keys are accounted for, have locks re-keyed if needed, and make copies of keys if needed for other family members. If the home has a security system, garage door passcode, or passcodes for any doors, setting and memorizing any necessary passcodes is also essential. If the home doesn't have a security system and you wish to add one, there are often deals available when installing a system for the first time.

2. Do a Thorough Walkthrough and Clean
   The early stages of moving in are the best times to do a thorough walkthrough of the home, when there's little or no furniture present. This will allow you to see areas that will eventually be covered by furniture, check that everything is in order with the home, and make sure that there are no maintenance tasks that you need to take care of before moving in fully. For many of the same reasons, this is also an ideal time to give the home a thorough cleaning. Even if the home was cleaned to a high standard before you started moving in, doing your own cleaning provides peace of mind and helps your new residence start feeling like home.

3. Set Up Essentials
   Of course, moving into a new home is much easier when you have all of the essentials ready to go. These include things like electricity, water, and internet service, all of which can typically be set up in advance of moving into the home. Entertainment is also worth thinking about, especially if you're moving with kids. Having WiFi, streaming services/TV, or their favorite gaming consoles set up can help kids feel more comfortable while adjusting to their new surroundings.

4. Get Organized
   A new home is a blank canvas in terms of how you store and organize things, so getting organized now can ultimately make life much easier in the future. Storage is key when thinking about getting organized, whether we're talking about closets or larger, long-term storage spaces like the garage or attic. By unpacking and storing items in an organized, efficient way, you'll be off to a great start in keeping your new home organized for the long haul.

5. Connect with the Community
   Getting to know your new community is one of the most fun parts of moving into a new home, so why not get started right away? Walk through the neighborhood, visit local businesses, discover fun attractions, and learn where all of the necessary services are found. Joining clubs or organizations related to your favorite hobbies can be a great way to meet people, connect with the community, and learn more about the neighborhood.

Still searching for a new home that you'll love? Our local team is here to help you achieve your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

Beautiful flowers aren't the only thing that's in season this time of year around Albany and Corvallis, so why not stop by a local farm to pick up fresh ingredients for your summer culinary creations? You'll find a variety of u-pick farms in the area, with a wide range of crops available. Our real estate agents have more on u-pick farms around Albany and Corvallis for all of your summer fresh produce shopping needs.

Albany

• Bryant Family Farm – 35923 Bryant Dr. SW, Albany, OR 97321
  July is the best time to visit Bryant Family Farm, as that's when you'll find most of their 19 different varieties of blueberries ripe and ready for picking. Make it a day by packing a meal to enjoy in their picnic area, or chat with the friendly staff to find all of the best recipes for making the most of your fresh berries.

• Adair's Orchards – 36452 OR-226, Albany, OR 97322
  If you're looking for a place with the most extensive selection of different types of produce, Adair's Orchards is one of the best choices in the region. They offer a huge variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, some available to pick and others from the orchard shop. You'll also find fresh herbs and spices here, perfect for summer cooking. With so many types of produce, the season usually doesn't end here until late October.

Corvallis

• Anderson Blues Farm – 8793 Arboretum Rd., Corvallis, OR 97330
  For more than 40 years, Anderson Blues Farm has been supplying Corvallis and nearby communities with delicious blueberries that are as fresh as it gets. The season here lasts from late June through late August, with discounts available on u-pick berries later in the season. This farm typically closes at 3:00 PM, but offers extended u-pick hours until 8:00 PM every Wednesday evening.

• LiMarvin Farm – 4169 NE Pin Oak St., Corvallis, OR 97330
  A small farm with a relaxing, tranquil atmosphere, LiMarvin Farm offers 5 different varieties of blueberries spread across a one-acre plot. Varieties available here are Duke, Patriot, Spartan, Blue Crop, and Chandler. Hours here do vary, but you can call ahead to schedule a visit outside of normal u-pick hours, as well.

• Blueberry Meadows – 3860 NE Hwy. 20, Corvallis, OR 97330
  Need advice on the best ways to cook with your fresh berries? Blueberry Meadows offers a convenient guide featuring details on each of their 11 blueberry varieties, including which varieties are best for eating fresh, baking, making jam, or are versatile for multiple uses. Their berries ripen at different times throughout the summer, so you'll often find different varieties available depending on when you visit. Can't make it out during normal hours? Check their social pages for updates on select days with extended u-pick hours.

• Davis Family Farm – 4380 NE Hwy. 20, Corvallis, OR 97330
  Davis Family Farm offers a wide range of fresh produce starting in the spring and lasting through early fall. Popular crops here include strawberries, blueberries, and tomatoes, along with a wide range of starter plants that make it easy to grow fresh produce in your own garden. Strawberries and blueberries are available u-pick, while other items are all available at their great farm stand. They've also got flowers ready for planting, perfect for adding a splash of color to your garden.

Searching for a home close to your favorite local farms? Our experienced team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the area.

Interested in getting into gardening this summer at your Albany or Corvallis home? Building a pollinator garden is a fun, creative summer project and offers a variety of benefits in addition to beautiful, blooming plants. This type of garden attracts a wide range of pollinators, including hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and more. Ready to exercise that green thumb? 

• The Basics of Pollinator Gardens
  A pollinator garden helps attract and support the pollinators in the local area. There are a few key things to keep in mind with pollinator gardens, which don't necessarily apply to every type of garden. The goal is to create a garden that you love to look at, but also one that provides an inviting environment for the types of pollinators you aim to attract. This will include the plants that you choose, and it impacts many other aspects of how you design your garden. 

• Native Plants Are Key
  One thing to keep in mind with pollinator gardens is that native plants tend to do a better job of attracting pollinators than plants that aren't native to the area. OSU offers an outstanding native plant guide that will provide information about the plants that grow best in this corner of Oregon. In addition to attracting pollinators, native plants are naturally adapted to the local climate, making it easier to create a garden that thrives all year long with less required maintenance.
  
  The plants that you choose for your garden will also depend on the types of pollinators you aim to attract. For many people who create a pollinator garden, however, the goal is to bring in a variety of pollinators throughout the year. In that case, you'll want to pick pollinator-friendly plants and flowers that bloom at different times of year. Picking a variety of plants that bloom in the spring, summer, and fall will help you cover all of the different types of pollinators that visit Oregon.
  
  For specific pollinators, it helps to read up on their preferences. Hummingbirds like plants with a tubular shape and a red or orange color. Butterflies, on the other hand, have specific "host" plants where they lay their eggs, including native milkweed for the monarch butterfly. So if you have a specific pollinator in mind, make sure to choose the types of plants they like most.

• Other Features to Include
  With a pollinator garden, it's not just about the plants. Leaving a little natural debris like leaves and plant stems, for example, especially during the fall, provides places for pollinators to lay eggs or safely spend the winter. It's also good to have some areas of open sand or dirt for similar reasons. And don't forget to have fresh water nearby! Fresh water is essential for a pollinator garden, and should be swapped out regularly. Butterflies prefer a damp, sandy area to drink from, while many other pollinators will be happy with a bird bath or small dish. Also, keep in mind that many pesticides are harmful to pollinators, so it's best to minimize the use of pesticides as much as possible when tending to your garden.

Searching for an Oregon home where you can create the garden of your dreams and enjoy it year after year? Our local team is here to help you achieve your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

What could be a better way to spend a summer evening than an outdoor concert under the stars, around the corner from homes in Albany and Corvallis? There are two excellent, local outdoor concert series offering great performances all summer long. Plus, they are entirely free to attend! Our real estate agents have more on where to catch a show this summer.

River Rhythms – 489 NW Water Ave., Albany, OR 97321

• Bridging Past and Present in Albany
  The River Rhythms concert series has been a summer staple for decades, with shows on select Thursday evenings throughout the summer at Monteith Riverpark. The concert series began more than 40 years ago, with a fascinating list of past performers who have taken the stage over the years. All concerts begin at 7:00 PM unless otherwise noted, but you're welcome to come to the park early to enjoy a variety of activities and vendors, which are typically available starting around 5:30 PM.

• Summer 2025 Concert Schedule
  The performance lineup for River Rhythms always features an eclectic mix of genres, and this year is no exception. The full summer schedule for 2025 starts with Tiffany (July 10, 2025), followed by Bohemian Queen (July 24), the Blind Boys of Alabama (July 31), Collin Raye (August 7), and Don McLean (August 14). There are often opening acts as well, which are typically announced via the City of Albany social media accounts.

• What to Know Before You Go
  While there's no cost to attend River Rhythms concerts, organizers do encourage a $1 donation if you're able to help keep this beloved summer series going for years to come. While you're here for the concert, be sure to check out some of the other activities available. There's a great arts and crafts booth for kids that's open before most concerts, as well as a selection of food vendors that vary with each show. Outside food and drink are also permitted, if you'd prefer packing a picnic.

Music in the Park – 299 S. 23rd St., Philomath, OR 97370

• A Summer Tradition in Philomath
  Why settle for one outstanding local concert series when you could have two? Music in the Park is Philomath's free series of summer concerts, held on the second Wednesday and fourth Sunday of every month from late May through early September. All concerts take place at Philomath City Park starting at 6:00 PM and typically last for around two hours. You'll see a variety of excellent local bands throughout the summer, and there's never a cost to attend.

• Music in the Park 2025 Schedule
  The full lineup of performers for Music in the Park 2025 hasn't been announced just yet, but we can tell you exactly when the concerts will take place this summer. There are shows on June 11 & 22, July 9 & 27, August 13 & 24, and September 10, 2025.

• What to Expect at City Park
  Planning to bring the whole family for Music in the Park? Since there's no admission cost, all you need to worry about bringing is seating. The seating area is on the lawn at the park, so bringing along a few lawn chairs can help you maximize your enjoyment of the show.

Searching for a home close to your favorite Oregon parks and summer outdoor performances? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

Whether you're new to gardening or have loved spending time tending your garden for years, the garden centers near Albany and Corvallis have so much to offer this time of year. In addition to stocking everything you need to grow, tend, decorate, and furnish your garden, many local garden shops also host fun educational events where you can learn more about your favorite hobby. Our real estate agents have more details on garden centers where you can shop local and find everything you need this season.

• Scenic Hill Farm Nursery – 2820 NW Scenic Dr., Albany, OR 97321
  Planning to grow fruit and vegetables in your garden this spring? Scenic Hill Farm Nursery is one of the best places to stock up on plants, bulbs, seedlings, and more. Their website has a detailed stock of all the plants currently available, so it's easy to find out what's in season. You'll find dozens of different varieties of berry plants, along with a wide range of fruit, vegetables, and tree seedlings.

• U&D Trucking & Nursery – 3435 NE Kathyrn Ave., Albany, OR 97322
  Love tomatoes? U&D Trucking & Nursery is offering more than 65 different varieties of tomato plants this spring, along with everything else in their extensive inventory. This family-owned business is celebrating its 60th anniversary of serving the Albany community this spring, with a success story built on quality products and friendly, personal service.

• Garland Nursery – 5470 NE Hwy. 20, Corvallis, OR 97330
  If you're looking for a gardening center that can help you learn new skills and grow existing ones, Garland Nursery is an excellent choice. Along with their extensive stock of plants, supplies, and artistic decorations, they offer a wide range of engaging classes and events for all experience levels. Be sure to also check out their digital magazine, Flourish, which includes local gardening tips and much more.

• Home Grown Gardens – 4845 SE 3rd St., Corvallis, OR 97333
  In addition to their landscape construction and maintenance services, Home Grown Gardens offers a full-service boutique nursery with tons of beautiful plants for your garden. You'll also find a great selection of pottery and gardening-themed gifts. Try out their loyalty club to be rewarded for stocking up on supplies and plants throughout the spring.

• Nichols Garden Nursery – 1136 Main St., Philomath, OR 97370
  Is one of your goals with gardening to grow fresh, delicious herbs and ingredients for all of your home culinary creations? Nichols Garden Nursery offers vegetable seeds, herb seeds, flower seeds, garlic, and saffron, along with lawn mixes and cover crops. Their cooks corner stocks plenty of fun items for the kitchen, while the "New and Unusual" section of their collection is an excellent place to find rare plants.

• Summit Ace Home & Garden – 1055 Tangent St., Lebanon, OR 97355
  Do you like to bring a bit of gardening indoors, as well? For the first time, Summit Ace Home & Garden is now stocking house plants and air plants starting this spring. Of course, they also offer everything you could want for your outdoor gardening needs. Looking for a piece of distinctive décor for your garden? They stock an extensive supply of sculptures and ornamental metal pieces, as well as unique, custom-made pieces from their greenhouse specialist.

Searching for a new home where you can grow the garden of your dreams? Our local team is here to help you achieve your real estate goals this spring. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

It's almost summertime, and our real estate agents couldn't be more excited to welcome the new season. Along with bringing warmer weather, summer is also peak gardening season in the Albany and Corvallis areas. Here's how to get your home and garden ready to enjoy all that summer has to offer! 

• Clean and Till Garden Beds
  Inspect garden beds and remove leaves, plant matter, and other debris, and pull up any weeds that have already started to sprout. If your garden has perennials that have returned or are still growing from previous years, cut back any dead stems or foliage. 
  
  In vegetable garden beds, now is a good time to loosen the soil before planting and add any mulch, fertilizer, or other organic materials. If you haven't had your soil analyzed recently, consider sending a sample for testing so you know what kind of amendments to add to the soil.
   
• Prune Trees and Shrubs
  Spring is a great time to prune (some) landscape trees and shrubs, but be cautious about trimming too much or at the wrong time. Evergreens like boxwood and arborvitae can be shaped and trimmed just about any time this season, but other plants require more caution. Rose bushes, for example, should be pruned after buds form to avoid damage from the occasional late frost. That said, it's also important to avoid cutting new growth. Certain flowering bushes like lilac, azalea, and forsythia should be trimmed after they finish flowering to avoid cutting off this year's blossoms. 
  
  
• Plant Annuals
  As we transition from spring into summer, many spring-blooming perennials like tulips and daffodils start to die. As they fade away, they make room in garden beds for a wide variety of summer annuals. Zinnias, marigolds, cosmos, petunias, and sunflowers are all well-suited to Oregon summer gardens. 
  
  
• Transplant Vegetable Seedlings
  Whether you grow your veggies from seeds under grow lights or purchase seedlings from a garden store, now is the time to transition them to your garden. The last average frost date for the Willamette Valley is typically in early May, and it's safe to say that by May 15, the chance of frost is virtually zero. To prepare your vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, let them spend part of the day outside in a sheltered space, gradually increasing the length of time and amount of sun exposure they get until they've become acclimated to outdoor conditions. 
  
  
• Wash Your Home's Exterior
  While it's not as fun as gardening and picking out plants for your home, you also need to attend to your home's exterior. Mold, mildew, and moss have a way of accumulation on roofs, siding, and other exterior surfaces. Spring is the time to wash your home's exterior thoroughly, though you might want to break it up into smaller chunks. Pick one day to pressure wash the siding, another to scrub the porch and patio, and another to clean out gutters and downspouts.
  
  
• Protect Against Pests
  Both your home and garden can get attention from unwanted insect invaders this season. For your home, caulking and weather stripping around doors and windows will help minimize points of entry, and trimming back shrubs will give bugs fewer opportunities to reach your house. For your garden, choose the level of pesticide use that you feel safe and comfortable with. There are plenty of natural options out there, with neem oil being one of the most popular. It also helps to keep up with weeding and pruning, so garden pests have fewer places to hide. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Oregon. From Corvallis to Albany, our real estate agents are here to help find your dream home with space for a garden. 

Do you love seeing the beautiful spring blooms around Albany and Corvallis this time of year? Then you won't want to miss the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival, where you can see thousands of tulips in bloom on a scenic Oregon farm, enjoy daily, family-friendly activities like hot air balloon rides, and participate in a variety of special programs throughout the event. Our real estate agents have more on what to expect from the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival in 2025.

Location: Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm – 33814 S. Meridian Rd., Woodburn, OR 97071

• Get to Know Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm
  If you've never been to Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm, now is the perfect time to plan your visit. The 40-acre, family-owned farm is famous for its tulips, which are typically in bloom only for a relatively short period during March and April. There are thousands of colorful blooms to see on the farm this time of year, which is why it's the perfect time to host the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival. The farm is also home to Wooden Shoe Vineyards and the associated wine tasting room, where you can taste a variety of outstanding, locally produced wines all year long.

• Essential Details on the 2025 Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival
  The 2025 Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival is currently ongoing through April 27, 2025, though that date is subject to change based on weather conditions and how long the tulips are in bloom. The farm's owners suggest that mid-April is often the best time to visit, as that's when you'll find the most overlapping colors among the blooms. You can purchase daily or season pass tickets for the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival online. The website also has a convenient page where you can check the status of the blooms before you visit.

• Eat, Drink, & Shop at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival
  If you love seeing the blooms at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival, why not bring some home to plant in your own yard? The Tulip Market features fresh-cut tulips, tulip bulbs, potted tulips, and a variety of fun souvenirs to commemorate your visit to the event. You'll also find tons of shopping, including a craft market with 20 excellent local vendors, a food court with 10 different dining options, and a wide range of products from the farm, including wines from Wooden Shoe Vineyards. Start your day with a visit to the Tulip Cafe, where you'll find fresh coffee, a variety of specialty drinks, and delicious, locally made pastries.

• Family-Friendly Activities on the Farm
  The Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival features fun activities for all ages, making it a great choice for a spring family outing. Hot air balloon rides are the most popular activity and are available throughout the festival. These include sunrise hot air balloon flights, which last for about an hour, and tethered hot air balloon rides, which are available throughout the day, providing an unmatched view of the beautiful spring blooms from above. Kids also love the jump tents and carnival rides, which are available throughout the event.
  
  In addition to activities that are available every day, you'll find a variety of special programs on select days throughout the festival. These include photography on the farm, wine tastings, fundraisers for non-profits, and more.

Searching for a home where you can plant your bulbs from the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

There's so much to see around Albany and Corvallis, but one of the other perks of living in the area is just how many wonderful places you'll find for a day trip within a short drive of home. The city of Newport is an excellent example of why that's the case, with an enticing mix of outdoor beauty on the waterfront, family fun, and great places to grab a meal during your adventures. Our real estate agents have more on what you can discover when you plan a day trip to Newport, OR.

Newport Attractions

• Driftwood Beach State Recreation Site – 5560 NW Pacific Coast Hwy., Seal Rock, OR 97376
  In the mood for a picnic on the beach? Driftwood Beach State Recreation Site is the perfect place to do just that, offering a beautiful beach, undeveloped natural scenery, and unmatched views of beautiful coastal Oregon sunsets. The park checks in at just over 36 acres, with facilities including an accessible restroom, beach access, and a variety of picnic areas that offer great views. It's also an excellent place for fishing, nature photography, or just a long, scenic walk on the beach on a beautiful spring day. This park is a popular place for beachcombing, too, if you like hunting for treasures with the beauty of nature all around you.

• Hatfield Marine Science Center – 2030 SE Marine Science Dr., Newport, OR 97365
  Hatfield Marine Science Center is an educational and research facility affiliated with Oregon State University, which also offers a variety of programs for the public. If you or your kids love learning all about the fascinating fish and creatures that call the Oregon coast home, you're sure to love diving into all of the fun, educational marine exhibits here. Stop by to explore the expansive visitor center, speak with the friendly, knowledgeable staff, and take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn all about the research that happens here. They also offer a wide range of K-12 marine education programs, ideal for a visit with kids or with a school group.

• Ripley's Believe It or Not – 250 SW Bay Blvd., Newport, OR 97365
  Ripley's Believe It or Not is another family-friendly attraction where you can "experience the extraordinary" by exploring hundreds of unique artifacts, oddities, exhibits, and hands-on experiences. Visit the Star Room to feel like you're exploring space, explore the outdoor Walk Among Giants exhibit, which features some truly one-of-a-kind sculptures, and try out the Test Your Skills area, where you can take on a wide range of exciting challenges that put your various skills to the test. These include the chance to test your agility by sneaking through an obstacle course crisscrossed by lasers, just like in the movies.

• Yaquina Head Lighthouse – 750 NW Lighthouse Dr., Newport, OR 97365
  The Yaquina Head Lighthouse stands as Oregon's tallest lighthouse at 93 feet. Constructed in 1872 using over 370,000 bricks, this historic beacon has been guiding mariners since its first lighting on August 20, 1873. Today, visitors can explore the lighthouse and its surroundings, which are part of the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. This area offers exceptional opportunities for tide pooling at Cobble Beach, bird-watching, and even glimpses of migrating gray whales during the winter and spring months.
  

Plus, you can plan your trip around one of Newport's amazing local events. Read more about these events here. 

Restaurants to Try in Newport

You're bound to get hungry during your travels! Consider stopping by these local spots.

• Local Ocean Seafoods – 213 SE Bay Blvd., Newport, OR 97365

• Clearwater Restaurant – 325 SW Bay Blvd., Newport, OR 97365

• Myril Eatery & Wine Bar – 1000 SE Bay Blvd., Newport, OR 97365

• Chalet Restaurant & Bakery – 2026 N. Coast Hwy., Newport, OR 97365

• Zach's Bistro – 614 W. Olive St., Newport, OR 97365

• Asiatico Waterfront Fusion Sushi – 875 SW Bay Blvd., Newport, OR 97365

• Georgie's Beachside Grill – 744 SW Elizabeth St., Newport, OR 97365

Searching for a home in your favorite Oregon community this spring? Our local team is here to help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

There's simply something special about living in a college town, especially when the school is such an essential element in so many aspects of the community. Oregon State University is a key aspect of what makes life in Corvallis so special, and has a positive impact on the community in a variety of ways. Our real estate agents have more on what makes OSU special, and how it shapes the local market.

• A History of Excellence
  Originally established in 1868, the school was first known as Corvallis College, before eventually transitioning to the Oregon State University name that's become an iconic part of the community. From humble beginnings, the university has grown to support more than 30,000 students annually in their educational journeys, and consistently ranks as one of the best universities in the country. OSU is especially well-known for its forestry, engineering, agricultural sciences, and marine sciences programs, though there are nearly endless other excellent degree paths to follow, as well.
  
  The diverse degree programs here also make for a strong workforce, after students graduate. Per their website, OSU is ranked in the top 1.4 percent of universities in the world, receives more public research funding than any other university in Oregon, offers more than 200 different degree programs, and is home to students from more than 100 countries. Those students often go on to help shape the future of Corvallis and nearby communities, in part thanks to their OSU education.

• A Vibrant Campus
  The OSU campus is far from just an amazing asset for students who are pursuing an education here. It's also a key part of the community, offering a busy schedule of events, programs, and facilities which are open to the public. Love college sports? That's a perfect place to start, since you'll find exciting athletic action here during every season, including college football played at the highest level along with excellent men's and women's basketball.
  
  Of course, there are many opportunities for the public to learn here, as well. You'll find a busy schedule of special events on campus, including lectures, conferences, activities, and workshops which are often open to the public. You'll also find a variety of public museums on campus, as well as nature trails, bike paths, and much more. It all adds up to be a fantastic resource for the community, even if you're not a student or alum of OSU.

• An Essential Aspect of the Community
  The impact of OSU extends far beyond the borders of that wonderful campus. Start with the local economy, and the small business community. The large number of students, faculty, and staff on campus help to support local businesses, and create a diverse community where a wide variety of businesses can thrive. If you love the arts, then OSU will surely be a key part of Corvallis for you. With museums/galleries on campus, a large presence in the local arts community, and live performances in tons of artistic disciplines, there's always something new to see.
  
  OSU also makes a meaningful impact on the community through its philanthropy and community service projects. Sorority and fraternity chapters take the lead on many charitable programs at OSU. Non-profit organizations that benefit from OSU programs include the Make-A-Wish Foundation, St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, Heartland Humane Society, Alzheimer's Association, and many more.

Searching for your next home in Albany or Corvallis? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

From the start of spring to the celebration of St. Patrick's Day, March is an exciting month for special events around Albany and Corvallis. We've got concerts featuring traditional Irish music, art walks, live theater, one of Oregon's largest flea markets, a festive St. Patrick's Day dance, and much more. Our real estate agents have the latest on local spring festivals and events to check out this March.

Albany

• First Friday Downtown Albany – Downtown Albany, OR 97321
  On the first Friday of every month, many local businesses, restaurants, and community organizations participate in First Friday Downtown Albany celebrations. Every month's event has a unique theme, and the theme for First Friday in March is Pot O' Gold, just in time for St. Patrick's Day. This month's First Friday event takes place on March 7, 2025, with special sales, events, family fun, and more.

• Linn County Flea Market – 3700 Knox Butte Rd. E., Albany, OR 97322
  Planning to give your home décor a fresh, new look this spring? The Linn County Flea Market can help you re-imagine any room on a budget, with tons of antiques, crafts, collectibles, art, and rare finds. The next Linn County Flea Market takes place on March 29, 2025, starting at 9:00 AM. For an extra $5 on your ticket, you have the option to beat the crowds and start shopping an hour before the official opening time.

• Ride the Cyclone – 111 W. 1st Ave., Albany, OR 97321
  There's always something exciting to see on stage at the Albany Civic Theater, and Ride the Cyclone is the big show this March. The play follows the story of a group of teenagers stuck in limbo, who bargain with a mechanical fortune teller to return to the waking world. There are seven chances to see the Ride the Cyclone this month before its run wraps up on March 15, 2025.

Corvallis

• Corvallis Arts Walk – 700 SW Madison Ave., Corvallis, OR, 97333
  On the third Thursday of every month, you can participate in a Corvallis Arts Walk featuring a variety of local museums, galleries, and artists. Start your Arts Walk with a visit to The Arts Center, which participates every month, then branch out around Corvallis to explore the amazing work of talented, local artists. This month's Corvallis Arts Walk takes place on March 20, 2025, from 4:00 – 8:00 PM.

• Lúnasa Concert – 470 SW 15th St., Corvallis, OR 97331
  The Corvallis Folklore Society and PRAx are combining forces for a special concert of traditional Irish music, just after St. Patrick's Day. The Lúnasa Concert features a fantastic traditional Irish band, and takes place on March 27, 2025 at 7:00 PM. This event is also a fundraiser for the Corvallis Celtic Festival, which you can look forward to later this summer.

• St. Patrick's Day Dance – 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis, OR 97330
  Put on your best green dancing attire and get ready for a fun, festive event with the annual St. Patrick's Day Dance. The dance is for guests age 18+, and takes place on March 21, 2025 beginning at 7:00 PM at the Corvallis Community Center.

Shopping for a home in Albany or Corvallis this March? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

Spring is nearly here around Albany and Corvallis, which means that now is also the perfect time to dust off those running shoes to prepare for your next 5K. There are some great 5Ks and marathons coming up in the area this year, as well as the largest triathlon (with an indoor swimming section) in the United States. Our real estate agents have more on 5Ks and marathons coming up around the region for you to run in this year.

Lebanon

• Cheadle Lake 5K/10K – 37919 Weirich Dr., Lebanon, OR 97355
  Looking for a run that the whole family can enjoy? Hosted by the Build Lebanon Trails non-profit organization, the Cheadle Lake 5K/10K promises a full day of fun with a course that begins in Cheadle Lake Park before winding its way through newly built trails. There will also be a special Kids Obstacle Dash featuring a half-mile course with more than 20 unique obstacles to navigate. It all takes place on May 3, 2025, starting at 9:00 AM.

• Walk a Mile for a Child & 5K – 25 Academy St., Lebanon, OR 97355
  Sponsored by the Lebanon Police Department and Dala's Blue Angels, the Walk a Mile for a Child & 5K is an event with the goal of raising awareness, preventing child abuse, and promoting the well-being of children. The event takes place on April 5, 2025, with a course beginning at the Academy Square Gazebo.

Corvallis

• McDonald Forest Trail Runs – McDonald Forest (OSU Campus), 1500 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331
  Looking for a run that amps up the challenge level? The McDonald Forest Trail Runs include both a 5K and 15K run, through McDonald Forest on the Oregon State University Campus. Proceeds from the race benefit local cross-country teams, and kids under 18 can sign up for the race with a 50 percent reduced fee. Both races take place on March 1, 2025, with the 15K leading things off at 9:00 AM.

• Corvallis Half Marathon – 660 SW 26th St., Corvallis, OR 97331
  Another excellent choice for a run with the whole family, the Corvallis Half Marathon includes a 13.1-mile half marathon, a 5K run/walk, and a special Family 1K designed with kids in mind. This is also a great choice if your aiming for a personal best time, with a paved, relatively flat course for all races. Look forward to this event on April 4, 2025, beginning with the start of the half marathon at 8:30 AM.

• Beaver Freezer Triathlon – Oregon State University Triathlon Club, Corvallis, OR, 97330
  Sponsored by the OSU Triathlon Club, the Beaver Freezer Triathlon has been a local favorite for more than 25 years, featuring a triathlon that's perfect for first-timers and beloved by experienced participants, as well. This year's race takes place on April 12, 2025, with online registration open now.

Albany

• iRun for Kids – 2100 SW Elm St., Albany, OR 97321
  The iRun for Kids is a great event that raises money for the Albany Public Schools Foundation, and it returns to the track at West Albany High School after a two-year hiatus. The event includes 5K and 10K runs, as well as a special Little Leprechaun Dash for younger kids. All races take place on March 15, 2025, starting at 9:00 AM.

Do your plans for this year include buying or selling your next home? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

Planning a move to Albany or Corvallis to start 2025? Whether you're visiting a local thrift shop to give back by donating items from your previous home or purchasing items for your new one, shops like Habitat for Humanity's ReStores have so much to offer. Of course, you don't have to be shopping for a home to donate or to enjoy the great deals available at ReStores. Our real estate agents have more on what you can find and how to donate at three local ReStore locations.

Get to Know Habitat for Humanity

• All ReStore locations are operated by the Habitat for Humanity non-profit organization, which provides a variety of essential housing services for those in need. These include both making critical repairs to existing homes and building new homes. Benton Habitat for Humanity, for example, has constructed 39 single-family homes in Benton County since 1991, providing housing for more than 224 people.
  
  Each ReStore serves as a key fundraiser for its local Habitat for Humanity chapter, where you can both shop for affordable products and donate your own. Local ReStores around Albany, Corvallis, and Lebanon all have quite unique selections with a common theme of home improvement.

Corvallis

• Benton Habitat for Humanity – 4840 Philomath Blvd., Corvallis, OR 97333
  Benton Habitat for Humanity has been serving the community since 1991, and their ReStore is the perfect place to visit when you're planning a big home project. Think of it as a discount home improvement store with a great selection of building supplies, tools, cabinets, appliances, flooring, doors, windows, electrical equipment, and more. You'll find more than 15,000 square feet of home improvement goods to explore here.
  
  Just finished a home project, and have some extra items you'd like to donate? They're currently accepting appliances, building materials, furniture, doors, flooring, hardware, lighting, lumber, home accents, and home and garden items. Make an appointment for larger donations, or stop by anytime during donation hours every Tuesday-Saturday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Albany

• Albany Habitat ReStore – 1225 SE 6th Ave., Albany, OR 97321
  If the Benton ReStore is like a discount home improvement store, think of the Albany Habitat ReStore as a discount department store. They've got tons of home decorations, furniture in great shape, outdoor décor, and items to help with all of your gardening needs. They do stock (and accept donations of) home improvement products as well, including many of the items that we covered for the Benton ReStore.
  
  Since 2001, this ReStore has helped keep more than 12,700 tons of recyclable goods out of landfills while providing great deals to the community. Donation hours are Wednesday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM.

Lebanon

• Lebanon Area Habitat for Humanity and Restore – 566 S. Main St., Lebanon, OR 97355
  The Lebanon Area Habitat for Humanity and Restore accepts and sells all of the home improvement items we covered at the previous two locations, along with additional items. These include beds of all sizes, box springs, baby furniture, a wide variety of paints (including automotive, marine, and industrial), epoxies, fluorescent lights, and certain cleaning products. Stop by to donate on Thursday-Friday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM or Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Shopping for a home that you can decorate with all of your fabulous thrift shop finds? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

The start of a new year is the perfect time to give back, so why not donate at one of the great thrift shops around Albany and Corvallis? Local thrift shops accept a wide range of donations, from clothing to home goods and children's items, with proceeds often supporting charitable missions. Our real estate agents have more on the many ways you can give back to start 2025.

Corvallis

• The Arc – 928 NW Beca Ave., Corvallis, OR 97330
  The mission of The Arc is to "enhance the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Benton County," with their thrift shops in Corvallis and Philomath serving as important fundraisers. Both locations accept donations Monday-Saturday, from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

• Heartland Humane Thrift Shop – 411 SW 3rd St., Corvallis, OR 97333
  The Heartland Humane Thrift Shop is affiliated with the Heartland Humane Society, helping to support the animals and programs at the shelter. The shop is open for donations every day, with clothing, home goods, and toys among the primary items they accept.

• OSUsed Store – 644 SW 13th St., Corvallis, OR 97333
  Since it's part of Oregon State University, the OSUsed Store accepts items that not every thrift shop will want. These include computers, computer accessories, office supplies, scientific equipment, and sporting goods. The shop is open to the public every Tuesday evening from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM (winter hours) and every Friday from 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM.

Albany

• St. Vinnie's – 2220 Pacific Blvd. SE, Albany, OR 97321
  St. Vinnie's thrift shop in Albany is one of 14 thrift shops in Oregon operated by the St. Vincent de Paul Society, a faith-based non-profit organization. Their Albany location is open every day for donations, including appliances, clothing, mattresses, and box springs.

• Super Thrift – 310 SE 2nd Ave., Albany, OR 97321
  In addition to raising money for charitable causes, the many Super Thrift shops around Oregon provide vocational training, with at least 75 students working in the shops at all times. Their Albany location is open every Monday-Saturday from 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM and every Sunday from 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM.

• SafeHaven Thrift Store – 33650 OR-99E, Tangent, OR 97389
  SafeHaven Thrift Store supports the SafeHaven Humane Society and accepts donations of household goods, jewelry, and clothing. Their location just outside Albany is open for donations every Tuesday-Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM or until the store is full.

Lebanon

• Super Thrift – 2711 S. Santiam Hwy., Lebanon, OR 97355
  The second Super Thrift location on our list can be found in Lebanon, and it's open every Monday-Saturday from 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM and every Sunday from 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM.

• SafeHaven Thrift Shop – 914 S. Second St., Lebanon, OR 97355
  Our second SafeHaven Thrift Shop on the list is in Lebanon, and you can stop by to donate every Tuesday-Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM or until the store is full.

• Et Cetera Thrift Shop – 836 S. Main St., Lebanon, OR 97355
  The Et Cetera Thrift Shop is split into two sides, one featuring items donated from the community and one featuring fair trade items from around the world. The shop is open for donations every Tuesday-Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Do your plans for early 2025 include buying or selling a home? Our local team is here to help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

Are real estate plans in Albany or Corvallis on your mind for 2025? Then you'll certainly want to be well-acquainted with the latest real estate trends. Trends matter both in finding the right home for your needs with all of the amenities that you want and for picking out the best parts of your home to highlight if you're planning to list it for sale.

Real estate is a data-driven industry, and there's much to be learned from all of the listing data that's available. Zillow recently released their data-driven predictions for 2025 home trends, and we'll be using their statistics to highlight some of the key trends expected in 2025. 

Our real estate agents have more on the real estate trends to expect in 2025, so that you can start planning ahead to achieve your real estate goals.

• Cozy Is Cool
  There was a time when "cozy" was a bit of a loaded term in real estate listings, often hinting at a home's smaller size rather than its rustic charm. However, cozy is very much in these days, with many buyers looking for smaller, more sustainable, more eco-friendly homes and opting against large, open floor plans with unused space. Listings which mentioned "cozy" increased by 35 percent compared to last year, which hints that the cozy trend could pick up even more steam as we look ahead to 2025.

• Going Green Is a Priority for Many Buyers
  Sustainability is a big reason why smaller, cozier homes are gaining in popularity, and the eco-friendly trend extends far beyond the size of homes. With electric vehicles (EV) gaining in popularity, many buyers are looking for homes equipped with EV chargers. In fact, mentions of EV chargers were up 34 percent in listings compared to last year. The same goes for clean home energy features like whole-home batteries, solar panels, and smart home technology. Whole-home batteries had the largest increase in mentions of all the data that Zillow tracked, rising by 62 percent in listings since last year.

• Nostalgia for Days Gone By
  While modernity is key to the technology that enables sustainability, buyers are also showing a taste for nostalgia in other aspects of the home. Mentions of "vintage" were up by 9 percent in 2024, while mentions of "nostalgia" appeared in 14 percent more listings compared to one year ago. Along similar lines, the popularity of home libraries, reading rooms, and literary décor was on the rise in 2024, increasing by 22 percent in 2024.

• Making Your Home Feel More Like a Spa
  In general, home features related to health and wellness have significantly gained popularity in recent years, with mentions of wellness-related features increasing by 16 percent in 2024. Among the most popular wellness features are wet rooms or home spas. Think about all of the amenities of a premium hotel bathroom but available in your own home whenever you want them. A wet room, in particular, combines the tub and shower into one waterproof space, and mentions of wet rooms were up by 19 percent over the last year.

Ready to embrace the latest trends? Whether you're buying or selling, our team is here to help you accomplish your goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

Thinking of a big project for your Albany or Corvallis home, like a new gourmet kitchen or a spa-like update to your master bathroom? If a home remodel is at the top of your list of New Year's resolutions for 2025, then now is the perfect time to start planning ahead so that you can achieve your goals on time and on budget. Our real estate agents have the details on how to plan a home remodel in 2025 and take the first steps toward turning those renovation resolutions into reality.

• It All Starts with Your Budget
  When you hear a story of a home renovation gone wrong, the challenges often start with unrealistic expectations. That's why planning your budget from the start is such a crucial step. Your budget will help you decide which types of projects you're ready to pursue in the first place and will also impact the choices that you make throughout the project, from the contractors you select to the materials that you choose.

• Choosing the Right Project
  If you have multiple rooms that you'd like to renovate, then choosing where to start is another critical step. In some cases, your budget will help make that decision for you. The cost of remodeling a bathroom is different than the cost of a kitchen, so you might decide on a project based on what best fits your finances. If you have the budget to accommodate a variety of options, then consider which updates matter the most to you.

• Consider a Design Team
  There are a variety of professionals involved in designing and executing any home remodeling plan, and it may be worth adding an interior designer to that list. A designer (or design team) can help you plan your project, choose your décor, and find inspiration for how you'd like to re-imagine a room. They can help you choose materials that fit your budget, and can also often help with finding an excellent contractor, which leads right into the next item on our list.

• Do Your Research on Materials and Contractors
  Once you've chosen a project, you'll want to learn all that you can about relevant parts of the process, including who will be doing the work and what types of materials that they'll use. Your choice of contractor plays an enormous role in the success of the project, so don't be afraid to do research, ask for referrals, and speak with multiple contractors. Your choice of materials plays a big role in the cost of the project, and also how long the remodeled room will last. For many homeowners, the ideal choice of materials will be the options that best combine cost, aesthetics, and durability.

• Plan for Unexpected Costs and Delays
  Whether you're remodeling a room or an entire home, renovations are often large, complicated projects with tons of moving parts. In other words, even if you hire an outstanding contractor and plan your project as diligently as possible, sometimes there will be snags in the process. These might come in the form of delays, added costs, or a mix of both. In order to be able to deal with the unexpected, it's worth building a little extra cushioning into your plans in terms of cost and time.

Still searching for a local home that you can customize to your heart's content? Our team is here to help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

Planning to have guests over for the holidays and want your Albany or Corvallis home to be at its best? The holiday season can be a great time of year for home improvement projects, and it's always helpful to plan ahead in order to ensure you can finish your project on time. Our real estate agents have the details on home improvement projects that you can try in time for the holiday season this year.

• Give Your Home a Deep Cleaning
  From getting rid of allergens to simply ensuring that your home looks its best for your guests, this time of year is perfect for a deep cleaning of your home before the holidays arrive. Take care of all the usual cleaning tasks, as well as ones that you might have put off at other times of the year. Consider going the extra mile by renting equipment for deep cleaning carpets, furniture, and upholstery in order to give your home that extra shine for the holidays.

• Get Your Yard Ready for Decorating
  Do you love decorating your yard for the holidays? Before you get busy stringing up lights and inflating lawn characters, it's worth taking care of some outdoor maintenance to ensure your yard looks its best once it's all lit up. Clear out debris that's built up during the fall, prune trees/shrubs as needed, clear any clutter that doesn't fit with holiday décor, and create a beautiful blank slate for your holiday decorating.

• Inspect Your Fireplace and Chimney
  There's nothing like getting cozy around a crackling fire during the holidays, so why not take this time to make sure your chimney and fireplace are good to go? If you haven't already had them cleaned and serviced for the season, now is the time.

• Service Your HVAC System
  Your HVAC system is another key area of the home that you want to be ready for this time of year so that you and your guests stay comfortable. Your HVAC pro can give your system a checkup, and you can also replace filters as needed according to the manufacturer's instructions.

• Seal Drafts for Comfort and Energy Efficiency
  Of course, you also want your heating system to work as efficiently as possible during the winter. Sealing drafts is an important step in making that happen, and it also makes your home more comfortable during the coldest months of the year. Focus on openings like doors, windows, and vents, using either caulk or weather stripping to seal drafts as appropriate.

Searching for a home where you can make holiday memories for many years to come? Our local team is here to help you achieve your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

The holiday season is a magical time around Albany and Corvallis, with enchanting events for all ages lined up on the calendar. Our real estate agents have all the details on eight exciting events coming to Albany and Corvallis that are sure to get you ready for the holiday season.

Albany

• Carousel Holiday Art Faire – 503 1st Ave. W., Albany, OR 97231
  Head to the Historic Carousel & Museum for the Carousel Holiday Art Faire, where you'll find a holiday market featuring handmade items from local artisans, many of whom are volunteers at the museum. The Carousel Holiday Faire takes place on November 16, 2024, from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

• Children's Pioneer Christmas Party – 518 SW 2nd Ave., Albany, OR 97321
  The Children's Pioneer Christmas Party is always a popular event at Monteith House, and it's back once again on December 1, 2024, starting at 2:30 PM. Kids will sing carols, make their own ornaments, decorate the tree, and enjoy festive snacks.

• Caroling with the Monteith Historical Society – 518 SW 2nd Ave., Albany, OR 97321
  Next up is Caroling with the Monteith Historical Society, which you can look forward to from December 13-21, 2024. Join a large, lively group of carolers as you walk through the Monteith Historical District, serenading the neighborhood and spreading holiday cheer.

• Christmas Storybook Land – 3700 Knox Butte Rd. E., Albany, OR 97322
  Christmas Storybook Land is Albany's indoor holiday wonderland, where you can make memories anytime from November 30 – December 22, 2024. See the interior of the Linn County Expo Center transformed into a magical trail of holiday scenes featuring lights, decorations, and memorable characters.

• Celebration of Trees – 1215 Hill St. SE, Albany, OR 97322
  Do you love decorating your own tree or seeing the creative ways that others decorate theirs? Don't miss the Celebration of Trees from the Boys and Girls Club of Albany on December 5, 2024, where you'll see beautifully decorated Christmas trees with a wide variety of unique themes.

Corvallis

• A John Prine Christmas with the Jenner Fox Band – 361 SW Madison Ave., Corvallis, OR 97333
  John Prine delighted audiences for decades – but did you know that he once recorded a Christmas album? A John Prine Christmas with the Jenner Fox Band is a night of music on December 8, 2024, featuring covers of Prine's Christmas songs, his hits, and plenty of fun stories along the way.

• Corvallis-OSU Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concert – 875 SW 26th St., Corvallis, OR 97331
  Join the oldest continuously operating orchestra in Oregon for an evening of holiday magic with the Corvallis-OSU Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concert, featuring OSU students, alumni, faculty, and musicians from across the Willamette Valley. The concert takes place on December 6, 2024, starting at 7:30 PM.

• C3 Holiday Sing-a-Long – 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis, OR 97330
  Create music and memories at the C3 Holiday Sing-a-Long, where musicians of all ages, skill levels, and instruments are welcome to join in the fun. The event is led by the Wallop Sisters, who create interactive musical experiences. This free event takes place on December 13, 2024, starting at 7:00 PM.

Shopping for a home during the holidays or planning to get an early start on your home search in 2025? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

The holiday season may feel far off now, but winter will be here before you know it. If you live in Albany or Corvallis, then now is a great time to do some winter prep to make the season go as smoothly as possible. Of course, those preparations will include winterizing your house when the time is right. Our real estate agents have more details on how to winterize your home, including key areas like the pipes, roof, and gutters.

• Check and Clean the Gutters
  Whether from heavy rain or melting snow, your gutters are one of your home's key lines of defense against leaks and roof damage. However, gutters can only do their job effectively when they're kept nice and clean. Cleaning your gutters is the perfect place to start when winterizing your home, and it's an ideal task for a pleasant fall day. Just make sure to practice good ladder safety and wear gloves to protect your hands.

• Have Your HVAC System Serviced
  You'll notice a theme in these tips, which is that a well-maintained home is both easier to keep in great shape, and less likely to cause unexpected problems in the winter. Your HVAC system is no exception, and fall is an ideal time for a routine service call. Your HVAC pro can check that your heating's in great shape, replace any filters that need it, and let you know if there's any additional work needed before winter.

• Inspect Your Roof and Attic
  Leaks can cause all sorts of unwelcome problems in homes, and they often start when the roof is damaged. Check your attic for signs of leaks and your roof for signs of damage. If you're uncomfortable climbing up for this task or gutter cleaning, there's nothing wrong with playing it safe by calling the pros.

• Search for and Seal Drafts
  Drafts can cause uncomfortable changes in temperature and unwelcome changes to your home's energy efficiency. Search out and seal drafts before winter, especially around windows, doors, vents, and other openings. Depending on the location, either weather stripping or caulk will typically do the job beautifully.

• Prepare Your Plumbing
  A burst pipe is one of the last things that any homeowner wants to deal with, so it's important to take steps to make sure that your plumbing is winterized. Assuming you'll be living in the home during the winter, the main concerns are draining outdoor pipes, sprinkler systems, and garden hoses. You'll also want to make sure pipes inside the home don't get too cold. This is mostly an issue in basements, so ensure your basement has enough heat and that pipes are insulated if needed.

• Store Outdoor Furniture
  Outdoor furniture can take a beating from cold temperatures and winter weather, so it's wise to cover or, ideally, store it safely indoors before winter arrives. If you're clearing furniture off of a wooden patio, you might also consider taking the opportunity to apply a fresh coat of sealant for the winter.

• Keep Snow Removal Tools Handy
  While you're storing those summer items, make sure that any tools or equipment you need to clear snow are readily accessible for the winter. Plan ahead so that you can safely get to anything you need during a snowstorm.

Searching for an Oregon home that you can enjoy for many seasons to come? Our local team is here to help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

Fall is an exciting time in the Mid-Willamette Valley, with a busy schedule of fun events throughout the season around Albany and Corvallis. These include plenty of Halloween activities, celebrations of the fall harvest, and one event that's perfect for anyone who loves dogs. Our real estate agents have the latest details on fall events to look forward to around the Mid-Willamette Valley.

Albany

• Downtown Trick or Treat & Costume Contest – Downtown Albany, OR 97321
  Downtown Albany is the place to be for Halloween, with the Downtown Trick or Treat & Costume Contest coming up on October 26, 2024. Kids can trick or treat at local businesses (just look for orange and black balloons!) before participating in the spooky costume contest. Don't miss the chance to make Halloween memories at this event from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

• Dogtoberfest – 635 NE Water Ave., Ste. B, Albany, OR 97321
  Your furry friends can get in on the fall fun, too, thanks to fun events like Dogtoberfest at Deluxe Brewing on October 12, 2024. Both kids and well-behaved pups are welcome at this event, which includes themed food & drink, a costume contest for dogs, raffle prizes, pet-friendly games, and a donation drive for local rescue shelters.

• Ghost Walk – 518 2nd Ave., Albany, OR 97321
  Discover the spooky side of Albany and the famed Monteith House with a Ghost Walk from the Monteith Historical Society. Each tour includes a ghostly walking tour of the Monteith Historic District and the Historic Business District in Albany before wrapping up with a special candlelit ghost tour of the Monteith House itself. There are two chances to enjoy a Ghost Walk, on October 11 & 12, 2024, with tickets available in advance online.

Corvallis

• Harvest Party – 33930 SE Eastgate Cir., Corvallis, OR 97333
  The annual Harvest Party started as a small gathering of friends more than a decade ago and has since grown into one of the biggest events of the year at 2 Towns Ciderhouse. There will be 25+ craft beverages on tap, along with a hot cider bar, pumpkin bar, cidery tours, photo booths, and fun, fall-themed outdoor activities. Look forward to it all on October 19, 2024.

• Greek Fest – 6000 NE Elliott Cir., Corvallis, OR 97330
  Immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of Greece with the annual Greek Fest at St. Anne Orthodox Church in Corvallis. Food is at the heart of this event, which features a menu of authentic Greek cuisine, including a tempting selection of delicious desserts. Stop by the website for pictures of every delectable entree on the menu. This year's Greek Fest takes place October 11-13, 2024.

• Children's Halloween Party – 645 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis, OR 97330
  For Halloween with kids in Corvallis, there are two exciting events on schedule. First up is the Children's Halloween Party, which is geared toward kids aged 10 & under and takes place at the Corvallis Public Library Parking Garage on October 26, 2024, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM. The party is free to attend, and costumes are encouraged. Next up is Downtown Trick or Treat, where kids can visit local businesses for sweet Halloween treats on October 31, 2024, from 2:00 – 5:00 PM.

Is finding your next home in the Mid-Willamette Valley at the top of your to-do list this fall? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout Albany and Corvallis, OR.

Staging is a crucial step to put the finishing touches on your home before you start showing it to potential buyers, and it can be helpful for more than just creating an attractive look. The right staging techniques can also help make your home appear more spacious, which is a major selling point that can help your listing stand out over other Albany and Corvallis homes on the market. Our real estate agents have more details on staging tips to help your home look more spacious.

• Make Sure to Clean and Declutter
  Many tips to stage your home in order to make it look more spacious, unsurprisingly, require creating more open space. Which can be difficult to do if the home is still filled with the usual clutter that builds up over years of living. So if you didn't declutter in a major way while cleaning your home, now is the time to get it done. Items that you don't need can be donated, sold at a yard sale, or disposed of as needed. If you have items you want to keep but want to remove before you start showing the home, renting a storage unit can be a good temporary solution until you move.

• Less Is More With Furniture
  Continuing with the theme of creating more space, staging often involves adding to or tweaking the furniture in a home. If you're trying to make a smaller space appear more spacious, then less is usually more in terms of furniture. This doesn't mean bare walls and empty floors. Even removing a few strategically chosen items from a room can create the appearance of much more space.

• Choose Appropriately Sized Furniture
  It's not just about the amount of furniture but also the size of each piece of furniture that you have in a room. This is especially true for bulkier items like sofas, beds, and dressers, which can easily eat up a lot of space in smaller rooms. Going with sleeker, smaller options for those pieces of furniture is a staging technique that can make a big difference.

• Consider Spacing Around Furniture
  When furniture is squeezed tight up against walls, it can make a room feel more cramped and crowded. Moving furniture away from walls creates walking paths while making the room feel larger and more open. Bed placement is particularly important – try to place it on the wall farthest from the door, with ample room to walk on each side of the bed.

• Make Sure Rooms Are Well Lit
  A dim room with dark corners and lots of shadows will naturally feel like a smaller space than a well-lit room where everything is visible. Ideally, this can be accomplished through a mix of natural light through windows and artificial lighting in the home. Reducing the size of curtains or window treatments is an easy way to let in more light. Bulkier window treatments can make rooms feel more cramped, so reducing their size has multiple staging benefits.

• Keep Closets and Cabinets Clean and Organized
  It's not just rooms that can be made to look more spacious. Keeping your storage spaces clean, organized, and as free from clutter as possible is a great way to make those spaces more appealing to buyers.

Searching for the right team to help you get your home sold? Our local team is here to help you achieve your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

We often discuss the many hiking trails that you can explore around Albany and Corvallis, but did you know there are trails on the water, as well? The Willamette Water Trail winds its way through both communities, offering a unique way to see Oregon's natural beauty from a whole new perspective. There are plenty of great places to stop along the way, but also a few things that you should know before you set out. Our real estate agents have more details to help you make the most of your time on the Willamette Water Trail.

What to Know About the Willamette Water Trail

• The Essentials
  The Willamette Water Trail runs the length of the Willamette River, clocking in at 187 miles in total. It passes by a wide range of Oregon cities, including Albany, Corvallis, Salem, Eugene, and Portland. While there are challenging sections, and it's important to always be prepared, the Willamette Water Trail is also quite approachable for beginners. With tons of different entry and exit points along the Trail, you can customize every trip to suit your needs.

• How to Travel the Trail
  If you can propel it with a paddle, there's a good chance that you can use it to traverse the Willamette Water Trail. The most popular methods for traveling the Trail include canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. You can use your own equipment or rent everything you need from a local outfitter.

• Safety Tips
  In general, it's important to observe good safety practices for whichever type of craft you're using to navigate the Willamette Water Trail, and the Oregon State Marine Board offers a variety of resources to help you learn good safety practices. Of special note are life jackets or personal flotation devices (PFDs), which can be important even for strong swimmers. Always make sure you have the appropriate equipment before setting out on a trip.

• Know Before You Go
  It's always a good idea to check weather conditions, potential flooding, and water temperatures before you go. While the Willamette River can be over 70 degrees in the summer, temperatures begin to drop quickly in September. It's important to wear suitable clothing for the season. Being aware of the weather is a must for being prepared and can help you find the best time to make your trip.

Exploring the Willamette Water Trail in Albany and Corvallis

• Willamette River Trail in Albany
  Albany offers a number of options for accessing the Willamette Water Trail, allowing you to easily customize the length of your trip. You can find river access at Hyak Park, Bryant Park, Takena Landing, and Bowman Park.

• Willamette River Trail in Corvallis
  The easiest ways to access the Willamette Water Trail from Corvallis are via the Willamette Boat Landing and Micheal's Landing, both of which are located in the city. Both access points in Corvallis are located near dining, shopping, and more.

• Renting or Buying the Gear You Need
  If you're heading for the Willamette Water Trail from Albany or Corvallis, you can find gear rentals at Peak Sports (207 NW 2nd St., Corvallis, OR 97330). They offer kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and inflatables, all available either for purchase or rent. You can also pick up plenty of tips from the knowledgeable staff.

Searching for a home that makes it easy to enjoy all of your favorite outdoor attractions? Our local team is here to help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

Summer is a stressful time for home cooling systems, but there's plenty that you can do to enhance efficiency while reducing energy bills for your home in Albany or Corvallis. From installing affordable smart home technology to old-fashioned tips like sealing up drafts, there are so many steps you can take to stay cool while keeping your home as energy-efficient as possible. Our real estate agents have more details on energy efficiency tips that you can put to work in your home this summer.

• Have Your Cooling System Maintained Regularly
  A home cooling (HVAC) system that's not properly maintained can lead to all sorts of unpleasant problems, from inefficiency to total breakdowns. Fortunately, getting ahead of those issues is typically quite easy and simply requires you to schedule maintenance with your HVAC pro at the start of the summer. Didn't remember to make an appointment this summer? Better late than never, and scheduling now can help your system run better when fall arrives, too.

• Install a Smart Thermostat
  Remembering to set your thermostat to the right temperature at the right time is key to energy efficiency, but it can be hard to remember to change the dial every time you leave the home. With a smart thermostat, you can program your thermostat so that your home is always at the right temperature, letting things get warmer while you're out of the house but keeping your home cool and comfortable when you're present.

• Seal Cracks, Openings, Windows, and Doors
  Hot air making it in from outside is a huge drain on efficiency, causing your home to be less comfortable and your HVAC system to work harder in order to keep it cool. With caulk and weather stripping, you can seal most openings. Caulk is great for sealing around vents, sealing cracks, and taking care of tricky openings in windows/doors. For sealing the edges of windows and doors, weather stripping is an excellent low-cost option that's easy to install.

• Shop for Efficient Appliances and Lighting
  Whether you're shopping for a big item like a kitchen appliance or something small like a light bulb, opting for energy-efficient options can be a big boost for your budget. ENERGY STAR has tons of free resources available that can tell you more about efficient HVAC systems and appliances, as well as other tips to help you with energy efficiency at home.

• Try Window Coverings to Keep Out Heat
  Heat doesn't just get in through cracks and openings in the home. The heat from the sun can cause your home to get significantly warmer and increase cooling costs accordingly. Fortunately, this is one problem that's relatively easy to avoid. Installing curtains, blinds, or window treatments that provide full, light-blocking coverage will go a long way toward addressing this common source of heat.

• Use Fans and Outside Air for Cooling When Possible
  While we've covered ways to keep hot outside air from entering the home, there might be some days (and especially evenings) when the air outside is pleasant enough that you can open windows rather than using your home cooling system. Whether you're cooling your home with your HVAC system or with outside air, remember that fans are efficient for adding extra cooling. With the added cooling from a fan, you can often set your thermostat higher and enjoy savings over time.

Still searching for your next home? Our local team is here to help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

• Historic Alsea Bay Bridge Interpretive Center & Waldport Museum – 320 NW Hwy. 101, Waldport, OR 97394
  Located about 75 miles (90 minutes) from Albany and 64 miles (80 minutes) from Corvallis on the Oregon coast, the Historic Alsea Bay Bridge Interpretive Center & Waldport Museum is a must-see for anyone who loves bridges, architecture, history, or learning more about coastal ecosystems. Visit the Interpretive Center to learn more about the historic Alsea Bay Bridge and other historic bridges throughout Oregon, then head to the Waldport Heritage Museum to learn more about the history of this wonderful community from knowledgeable volunteers.

• Oregon Coast Aquarium – 2820 SE Ferry Slip Rd., Newport, OR 97365
  Looking for a fun day trip for the whole family? The excellent Oregon Coast Aquarium can be found in Newport, 60 miles (75 minutes) from Albany and 48 miles (58 minutes) from Corvallis. The Oregon Coast Aquarium offers both indoor and outdoor exhibits, including a great Discovery Zone for kids that blends education with entertainment. Outdoors, you'll find cool exhibits like the Seabird Aviary and Octopus Cave. You can add extra experiences as well, including a Behind the Scenes Tour, Sea Jelly Touch Encounter, and Octopus Encounter.

• Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area – 750 NW Lighthouse Dr., Newport, OR 97365
  Love historic lighthouses? The Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area has two lighthouses for you to discover, each with its own unique history and delightful design. The natural beauty around both lighthouses is stunning to see, and there's also a Visitor Center where you can learn all about the area. Both the Yaquina Head and Yaquina Bay lighthouses were built in the 1870s and still operate to this day. You'll find both lighthouses about 60 miles (75 minutes) from Albany and 48 miles (58 minutes) from Corvallis.

• Newport Historic Bayfront – 250-300 SW Bay Blvd., Newport, OR 97365
  Located the same distance from Albany and Corvallis as the other great Newport attractions we've covered so far, the Newport Historic Bayfront is your destination for shopping, dining, sightseeing, and more. Visit the quaint collection of locally owned dockside shops, dine on fresh, local seafood at waterfront restaurants, spend time by the docks watching the commercial fishing fleet in action, or simply find a place to soak in the scenery.

• Cobble Beach – Newport, OR 97365
  Also located in Newport, Cobble Beach is a fantastic place to visit if you love spending time by the water or you (or your kids!) love seeing the eclectic collection of creatures that call Oregon's coast home. The beach is made up of larger rocks rather than sand, and low tides reveal many marine creatures that call the unique ecosystem home. It's also a great place for nature photography, especially around sunrise or sunset.

Searching for a home base where you can plan out all of your exciting day trips? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR areas.

• Cool Pool – 705 Railroad St. SE, Albany, OR 97321
  If you've been searching for a pool that offers activities for all ages, including the youngest members of the family, then Albany's Cool Pool is well worth a visit this summer. The highlight for kids is the large play structure, which includes a variety of water features and a slide that towers over the facility at 36 feet tall. The whole play area is surrounded by water that's 18 inches deep. The Cool Pool also features a large swimming pool with lanes for laps and a lazy river perfect for warm summer days.

• Albany Community Pool – 2150 36th Ave. SE, Albany, OR 97322
  An indoor, Olympic-sized pool that's open for swimming and a variety of other activities all year long, the Albany Community Pool is an excellent choice if you're interested in aquatic exercise classes. There are exercise classes here every weekday, including Adult Water Aerobics, Adult Aqua Jog, and Senior Fitness. They also have swimming classes for all ages, including youth lessons for older kids and parent/child swim classes for younger kids.

• Mid-Willamette Family YMCA – 3201 Pacific Blvd. SW, Albany, OR 97321
  There's always something exciting to see and do at the Mid-Willamette Family YMCA, with a summer schedule that includes everything from camps for kids to a huge selection of aquatic activities. The Aquatics program at the Mid-Willamette Family YMCA includes swimming lessons, aqua fitness, and a dedicated swim team. Within each of those categories are tons of activities and classes designed with everyone from kids to seniors in mind.

• Osborn Aquatic Center – 1940 NW Highland Dr., Corvallis, OR 97330
  If you liked the sound of the Cool Pool but don't live in Albany, don't worry – Corvallis has you covered, too, with its wonderful Osborn Aquatic Center. The facility features four swimming pools that cater to a wide range of aquatic activities, as well as a water park and slide that kids love. Set up lessons for your kids, enjoy an exercise class, or simply relax by the water on a beautiful summer day. If you or a family member are interested in becoming a lifeguard, a variety of Life Safety classes are also available.

• Riverfront Commemorative Park – 2 NW 1st St., Corvallis, OR 97333
  Swimming pools are great when you have time to spare, but sometimes you just need a quick place to cool off on a busy summer day. The public spray fountain pool at Riverfront Commemorative Park is a great place to stop for a quick cool-down, and there are plenty of shaded places to relax in this scenic park.

Shopping for a home that makes it easy to enjoy all of your favorite summer activities? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

Looking for fun, affordable activities that you can enjoy with the whole family around Albany and Corvallis this summer? Each community offers its own excellent summer concert series, with either free admission or a small suggested donation that goes toward supporting good causes. Our real estate agents have more details on what to look forward to this summer.

River Rhythms

Location Monteith Riverpark – 489 NW Water Ave., Albany, OR 97321

The River Rhythms concert series has been part of the fabric of summers around Albany for more than 40 years, and there are five exciting performances lined up for this summer's series. All concerts are held at Monteith Riverpark on Thursday evenings, with shows starting at 7:00 PM. There's no ticket price for attending, but a $1 donation is suggested by event organizers as part of the Rock Out Against Hunger initiative.

• Lee Greenwood – July 4, 2024
  This first concert of the River Rhythms series for this year will be held alongside Fourth of July festivities, a perfect way to truly kick off the summer. On this night, the concert is just the start of what you'll enjoy at Monteith Riverpark. You'll definitely want to stick around after the show for a dazzling fireworks display with great vantage points from the park.

• Super Diamond – July 11, 2024
  Whether you adore the music of Neil Diamond or simply enjoy enthusiastic renditions of some of pop's biggest hits, Super Diamond is one band you're likely to love. This Neil Diamond tribute band has sold out shows across the country and has even taken the stage with Neil Diamond himself.

• Thompson Square – August 1, 2024
  Grammy-nominated country duo Thompson Square is back with new music and a new tour, which includes a stop at River Rhythms this summer. Don't miss the chance to hear their hits and experience their new songs for the first time on stage.

Corvallis Community Band Summer Concert Series

Location: Central Park – 650 NW Monroe Ave, Corvallis, OR 97333

The Corvallis Community Band Summer Concert Series is hosted at Central Park, with performances every Tuesday evening from now through August 27, 2024. Each show typically lasts from 7:30-8:30 PM, and all performances are free to attend. It's a great chance to see talented local musicians in a scenic outdoor environment, playing family-friendly selections of songs.

• John Russell – Songs That Defined Our Times – July 16, 2024
  Join John Russell for a journey through the eras with his Songs That Defined Our Times performance. Experience songs that chronicled and commented upon some of the most fascinating times in our history.

• Steve Mathes – The 60s – July 30, 2024
  If you love pop music, especially from the 1960s, then you won't want to miss the two performances that Steve Mathes has lined up this summer. First up is a retro look at past pop music with The 60s, before later wrapping up the Summer Concert Series with a History of Popular Music (August 27, 2024).

• Mark Tarasawa – Fantasy and Fantasia – August 20, 2024
  While all performances in this series are kid-friendly, some will be especially appealing to the little ones. Fantasy and Fantasia is one such concert featuring songs from beloved children's movies and shows.

Do your summer plans include buying or selling a home, as well? Our team is here to help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

• Linn County Fair – 3700 Knox Butte Rd., Albany, OR 97322
  We begin with an event that families and kids are sure to love, as the Linn County Fair returns with three days of summer family fun. Enjoy the classic county fair experience, with carnival games, thrilling rides, delicious, decadent food, and a packed schedule of live entertainment across multiple stages. Families with kids will be especially interested in Familyland, a special area of the fair with tons of activities for kids. You can experience it all July 18-20, 2024.

• Albany 1st Fridays – Downtown Albany, OR 97321
  Downtown Albany is the place to be on the first Friday evening of every month, thanks to the monthly Albany 1st Fridays celebrations. Each Albany 1st Fridays event is tailored to highlight a different aspect of Albany by helping you connect with the wonderful small businesses and community organizations in the city. There are three Albany 1st Fridays events this summer, each with a unique focus. Enjoy a patriotic celebration with the Red, White & Blue 1st Friday (July 5, 2024), sample the work of the best local craft breweries during the Craft Brew Smackdown (August 2), and wrap up the summer season with Art & Artists (September 6).

• Grand Kinetic Challenge – Corvallis, OR
  A truly unique event where engineering meets artistry, the Grand Kinetic Challenge is unlike any other event that you'll attend this summer. Teams from across the West Coast compete to create kinetic art sculptures, which are pedal-powered and must navigate a complex course that winds throughout Corvallis. It's a spectacle of science and entertainment that you simply won't want to miss. This year's Grand Kinetic Challenge will take place July 20-21, 2024. Attend as a spectator, or lend a helping hand as a volunteer.

• Corvallis Knights Home Games – 430 SW Langton Place, Corvallis, OR 97331
  Looking for a fun, family-friendly activity that you can return to all summer long? Corvallis Knights Home Games make for a great family night out, with exciting baseball action and tons more to see around the stadium. For more than three decades, the Knights have been providing affordable entertainment and memorable on-field achievements. The summer schedule started on June 14, 2024, with plenty of opportunities to see the team through the end of the season on August 4, 2024.

• Sunnymount Sessions – 23924 Territorial Hwy., Monroe, OR 97456
  Who could say no to a summer concert under the stars? The Sunnymount Sessions summer concert series takes place at the beautiful Benton-Lane Winery in Monroe, offering a great opportunity to explore the winery and hear some great music in the process. There are several Sunnymount Sessions lined up for 2024: Tiffany Bird (July 12), The Boot Heel Band (August 9), and The Easy Targets (September 13).

Does buying or selling a home factor prominently into your summer plans? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

Summer is a very busy time for real estate sales around Albany and Corvallis, so how do you make your listing stand out from the crowd? The preparation that you do before you list – including getting your home open house ready – can pay major dividends when it's time to compete for the attention of buyers. Our real estate agents have more on how to get your home open house ready this summer.

• Make the Most of Your Landscaping
  One reason summer is a popular time to list homes is that it's often the time when landscaping shines the most. So it's fitting to start by making sure that your lawn looks great, your yard is clean, and trees/shrubs are perfectly pruned. If you already have a garden, make sure your flowers and plants are looking their best. If not, consider adding some colorful plants at key locations, like near the home's entrance, in order to add appeal and direct focus to the parts of the home that matter most to buyers.

• Plan for the Right Time of Day
  Summer is a good time for open houses in part because buyers often have more free time in their schedules than they do during other parts of the year. However, you'll still want to be careful to schedule your open house at a time that will maximize interest. Often, this will be a late afternoon or early evening time slot during the summer. That gives people who are working time to make it after work and allows you to showcase your property when natural lighting is at its best.

• Keep the Home Cool and Refreshing
  No matter what time you schedule your open house, there's a chance that any summer open house will be taking place on a day with hot, humid weather. While you don't want to turn your home into a walk-in fridge, keeping the AC on will make the property that much more appealing for buyers, especially when they're walking inside after spending some time in the sun. Providing cold water or other summer refreshments can be a nice finishing touch.

• Highlight Outdoor Living Spaces
  Buyers in a summer mindset will likely be quite interested in the outdoor spaces around your home, especially if you have a large deck, spacious backyard, pool/spa, or outdoor kitchen and dining space. Whatever outdoor spaces your home might have, make sure that they're clean, the furniture is well-maintained, and the spaces look as inviting as possible.

• Clean and Declutter
  Some open house tips apply during every season, and this is certainly one of them. A thorough cleaning and decluttering of the home is crucial before an open house. Cleaning is essential for making a positive first impression, and decluttering is the key to helping buyers imagine their lives in the home.

• Tackle Minor Maintenance Issues
  While major maintenance issues are their own category which goes beyond open house prep, tackling those small, nagging maintenance issues is a great idea before buyers arrive. Little things like leaky faucets, damaged paint, or doors/cabinets that don't close quite right may be small in isolation but can really add up in the minds of buyers. Many of these projects can be handled DIY with little stress, so they're well worth tackling before an open house.

Searching for the right team to help you sell your home? Our team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

Are you planning a real estate transaction in Albany or Corvallis this summer? Whether you're buying or selling, the home inspection can often be one of the most stressful moments of the entire process. The good news is that knowing what to expect can help you reduce those stress levels and handle the home inspection with confidence. Our real estate agents have more on how to navigate the home inspection process for buyers and sellers.

What Is a Home Inspection?

At its core, a home inspection is an assessment of the safety and condition of the home, which is conducted as a routine step in the sales process. The inspection includes in-depth looks at many of the home's key systems, like heating/cooling, plumbing, and electrical. It also looks at vital aspects of the home's exterior, including the foundation and roof.

Once the inspection has begun, the process normally takes a few hours at most. The home inspector will carefully analyze each aspect of the home but is not permitted to offer advice or make repair estimates. The outcome of the home inspection can have a major impact on the rest of the sales process.

How Buyers and Sellers Can Prepare for the Inspection

Buyers

• Research and Vet Home Inspectors
  Since you'll typically be hiring the home inspector as a buyer, it's worth investing some time to give yourself the best chance of finding the right match. 

• Review Disclosures
  In some cases, the seller may have already made disclosures about certain types of issues with the home before the home inspection happens. Make sure to review any disclosures that the seller makes, so you'll have a better idea of what to expect during the inspection.

• Prepare for the Big Day
  Ideally, you or your agent will be there on inspection day to see the process. It's important to let the inspector do their job, so you'll mostly be an observer. Still, most inspectors will be willing to answer questions, so set aside some time for Q&A at the end of the inspection.

Sellers

• Clean and Declutter
  A clean, organized, decluttered home makes life easier for the inspector, so it's worth investing a little elbow grease before inspection day to make sure that your home is in the best shape possible. Given how in-depth the inspector looks at the home, a thorough cleaning is simply a must.

• Provide Access to the Inspector
  In order to review all of the home's systems, the inspector may need access to areas where you rarely go, like the attic or crawlspace. Before inspection day, make sure that the entries to those areas are clear, accessible, and safe for the inspector. This will make life easier when inspection day arrives.

• Take Care of Necessary Repairs
  If your home has minor maintenance issues that are likely to show up on the inspection, taking care of the necessary repairs ahead of time can save you some major headaches. A thorough review of the home can help you identify issues that may need to be addressed before the inspection.

Whether you need help navigating the home inspection or handling another aspect of the sales process, our experienced, local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

The beautiful, natural scenery that you can enjoy around Albany and Corvallis includes quite a few farms, many of which offer fresh, flavorful produce to a variety of local communities. One great way to stock up on locally sourced ingredients is to visit one of the many wonderful farmers markets in the area, where local farmers, artisans, and makers come together to create truly unique shopping experiences. Our real estate agents have all of the delicious details on five of the best spring farmers markets for you to visit this season.

• Corvallis Farmers' Market – 1st & Jackson, Corvallis, OR 97330
  The Corvallis Farmers' Market offers two days per week to shop, every Saturday and Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The Saturday Market is the biggest of the week, featuring the largest number of vendors and the largest selection, but also bigger crowds. The Wednesday Market offers a smaller, relaxed experience, still with a very diverse selection of produce and crafts. Both markets are open for the season through just before Thanksgiving.

• Albany Farmers' Market – 4th & Ellsworth, Albany, OR 97321
  Founded in 1978, the Albany Farmers' Market is almost ready to celebrate its 50th year of offering fresh produce and an outstanding shopping experience to the community. With more than 50 vendors offering everything from artisan cheeses to flowers, fresh produce, and handcrafted goods, this market has something for everyone. This market also features the Power of Produce Club, a fun educational program for kids ages 5-12. The market is open every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, from April 20 – November 23, 2024.

• Sweet Home Farmers' Market – 1141 12th Ave., Sweet Home, OR 97386
  The Sweet Home Farmers' Market is open every Tuesday afternoon from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, offering a great alternative if you can't make it out to one of the weekend markets in nearby communities. It opens for the season on May 14, 2024, and closes on October 19, 2024. There are more than 20 regular vendors offering the freshest products from their farms, along with baked goods, plant starts for your gardens, and even homemade ice cream. On most market days, talented local musicians will provide the soundtrack while you shop in Sweet Home.

• Philomath Farmers' Market – 1050 Applegate St., Philomath, OR 97370
  Located at the Philomath Community Library, the Philomath Farmers' Market is a small but growing market that aims to provide an inclusive, collaborative community space where affordable food is always a priority. With an Outstanding Small Market award in 2021, this Philomath market is truly thriving. You can visit every Sunday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with the market opening May 26, 2024, and closing for the season October 20, 2024.

• Lebanon Downtown Farmers' Market – Rt. 20 & Grant St., Lebanon, OR 97355
  Stop by the Lebanon Downtown Farmers' Market on Saturdays between May 18, 2024, and October 19, 2024, to find tons of fresh food for affordable prices. The Lebanon market is open from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, offering a Kids Club and live entertainment in addition to the usual great farmers market shopping experience. Many vendors who participate in the Sweet Home Farmers' Market are present for the Lebanon Downtown Farmers' Market, as well.

Dreaming of a home where you can grow your own fresh produce in your backyard? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

If you have real estate plans around Albany and Corvallis, then understanding the latest market trends is one way to get an edge over the competition. You may have heard that spring is a very busy time in the real estate industry, with buyers and sellers emerging in full force after the quieter winter months. A recent article from Keeping Current Matters delves deeper into why that's the case, including identifying the best time of the year to list a home on the market. Our real estate agents have more details on this interesting article, along with some tips to help you prepare your home for the market this spring.

Why April Is a Great Time to List Your Home

The article in Keeping Current Matters dives into a study conducted by the Realtor.com, which analyzed the best week of the year to list a home based on data from recent years. The result? April is the best time to list, with the week of April 14-20 standing out especially. Factors analyzed in the study included level of demand from buyers, level of competition from other sellers, and the number of price reductions compared to a typical week in the year. When adding everything up, April emerged as the clear winner.

Many of the factors that made April 14-20 the choice for best week to list a home also apply throughout the busy spring and summer seasons. So if you've been thinking of listing your home but putting it off to wait for the perfect time, this time of year could be the ideal opportunity to put your plan into action.

Getting Your Listing Ready for the Spring Market

Planning to list your home this spring and need to develop a plan of action to get everything ready in time? The size of the task depends on the condition of the home, but there's plenty that you can do relatively quickly to maximize the appeal of your home when it hits the market. Here are a few key tasks to keep in mind:

• Cleaning and Decluttering
  No matter how tidy you normally keep things, every house needs a deep cleaning before it hits the market. This should include all of the little, out-of-the-way places that you wouldn't normally think to check. While you're cleaning, take the opportunity to clear out clutter and personal items, so buyers can more easily imagine their lives in the home.

• Addressing Maintenance Issues
  Underlying maintenance issues can cause serious problems in the sales process, and can even derail a sale if the home inspection reveals something serious. Addressing those maintenance issues may have an out of pocket cost now, but it often pays off in a big way as the sales process progresses.

• Refreshing Curb Appeal
  You want buyers to be impressed from the moment they arrive at the curb, which is why curb appeal is such a priority. Your gardening, landscaping, trees, shrubs, and lawn can all play a role in attracting buyers. You'll also want to make sure that the exterior of the home is clean, and looking its best.

• Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent
  Whether this is your first time selling a home or you've navigated the process before, investing time in choosing a real estate agent who understands your needs and knows your community is well worth the effort.

Looking for the right team to help you list your home this spring? Our local team is here to help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

It's not always easy to decide when it's time for a new home, especially if your motivation is upsizing or downsizing. So before you start shopping for homes in Albany and Corvallis, it can be a very helpful exercise to go through a checklist that helps you organize your thoughts. In addition to helping you decide whether it's time for a new home, this exercise can help you identify what you want and need from your next home. Our real estate agents have more tips to help you decide when it's time to upsize or downsize.

• Life Changes
  Life changes are often a major motivation for changing home size. If you're planning on adding on to your family, a larger home might be worth consideration. Or if you've had family members move out and you're planning for retirement, then downsizing may be just the thing to help you manage your budget over time. Many other life changes qualify, too, of course, and we'll touch on some of those as we continue down the list.

• Space Utilization
  Space utilization is a very broad topic because there are so many different ways that you can utilize your space. However, sometimes it can be easy to decide, especially if you're downsizing. If you've lived in a home for a long time and still aren't using significant amounts of the space it provides, then downsizing can be a natural fit. For upsizing, motivations can include having a room dedicated to hobbies, creating an office so you can work from home, or creating a space for guests if you have frequent visitors.

• Financial Considerations
  Another strong motivation can be financial factors, and this is another one that works in both directions. If you've recently changed jobs, have more to spend, and are looking to move somewhere closer to your place of employment, then upsizing may be a fit. If your current home is too expensive to fit comfortably in your budget for any reason, then downsizing can be a great way to save on one important cost while opening up money for other needs. Sometimes financial considerations can be motivated by surprises in life as well, whether those surprises are positive or negative.

• Maintenance and Upkeep
  If you're considering downsizing, one major factor might be maintenance and upkeep. A larger home will often be more expensive to maintain than a smaller one, because there's simply more to take care of around the property. If you're the DIY type, you might also reach a point where you'd rather not have to invest so much of your time into the home. Whether cost or time is the primary motivator, maintenance and upkeep can be a motivation for swapping to a different sized home.

• Accessibility
  If you or a family member have accessibility needs, whether health-related or otherwise, you may be motivated to upsize or downsize. In some cases, a smaller home might be easier to get around and manage. In others, a larger space might be necessary for specialized equipment or other needs. This factor can influence your motivation to move, as well as the type of home you choose next.

Ready to upsize or downsize? Our team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

Planning to shop for a home in a great community like Albany or Corvallis in 2024? The time that you invest in financial preparation now can pay dividends when it's time to get serious about shopping for a home, and improving your credit score is often a perfect place to start. Since your credit score plays a major role in the process of securing a mortgage and determining your budget, it's never too early to start working on improving it. Our real estate agents have some helpful, time-tested tips for improving your credit score when you're planning to purchase a home.

• Make Payments on Time
  Perhaps the single biggest factor in establishing (and improving) your credit score is making payments on time. If you haven't made payments on time in the past, now is the time to develop a sustainable budget that helps you build toward the goal of improving your credit score and purchasing a home.

• Consider Credit Utilization
  Another important factor in determining your credit score is your credit utilization, which is essentially how much of your credit limit that you use on any given card. A lower credit utilization is usually better for your credit score, and people with very strong credit often have utilization in the single digits of percentage points. Keeping your balance low and paying on time can help you improve your credit utilization over time.

• Opt for Higher Limits
  If a creditor is offering a higher limit with terms that work for you, opting for that higher limit can help you improve credit utilization, which in turn boosts your credit score. Utilizing that higher credit limit ultimately defeats the purpose, however, so this tip only works if you choose a higher limit while maintaining a similar or lower balance than you did in the past.

• Dispute Errors on Credit Reports
  It's not uncommon for errors to be present on credit reports, and those errors can have a direct impact on your credit score. The most common types of errors are on-time payments marked as late, credit activity on your report that doesn't actually belong to you, and negative information that's left on your report after it should have been removed. If you find these or any other types of errors, disputing them can help you improve your credit score.

• Resolve Past Due Accounts
  Of course, negative marks on a credit report can also be there for valid reasons, and in those cases, it's important to resolve old debts as soon as possible. This should be a top priority and one of your first goals when working to improve your credit. Once you've got your accounts up to date, it's essential to keep making payments on time.

• Avoid Opening New Accounts or Making Major Purchases on Credit
  Opening new lines of credit or taking out a loan for a major purchase like a car can cause issues with your credit score. So if you're thinking of applying for new credit cards or taking a loan, it's best to wait until after you've purchased a home. Fortunately, the work that you do now in improving your credit score for purchasing a home also has benefits when the time does come for opening new lines of credit in the future.

Choosing the right real estate agent is one of the best ways to simplify the home-buying process, and our local team would love to help you accomplish your real estate goals in 2024. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.

Do you spend the winter dreaming about getting back to your garden? With spring around the corner, now is the perfect time to visit one of the great garden centers around Albany and Corvallis. Stock up on supplies, start planning out what you'll be planting, and connect with local gardening experts who truly understand growing in the Mid-Willamette Valley. Our real estate agents have more details on 4 Mid-Willamette Valley garden centers that can help you prep for spring.

One thing to consider before you head to the garden center is what you'll be planting this spring, and OSU offers an outstanding month-by-month garden guide tailored to our region to help you plan. Early spring is a time for planting cool-weather crops like broccoli, beets, carrots, peas, and parsley, as well as a wide variety of berries. It's also an ideal time to add plants that attract beneficial insects, including sunflower, dill, and coriander. To find everything you need for planting, along with helpful advice from local experts, try one of these 4 great garden shops:

• U&D Trucking & Nursery – 3555 Dunlap Ave. NE, Albany, OR 97322
  For more than 50 years, U&D Trucking & Nursery has been providing plants of exceptional quality to gardeners throughout the Albany area. In addition to their excellent selection of plants, they offer some helpful services to assist you in getting your garden ready for spring. The team here will re-pot plants into the planter of your choice to give you the exact look that you want. They also offer some excellent soil mixes tailored to the local climate and suited to a wide variety of popular plants.

• Shonnard's Nursery – 6600 SW Philomath Blvd., Corvallis, OR 97333
  In addition to stocking up on plants and supplies, garden centers are also fantastic places to find advice from true local experts. The team at Shonnard's Nursery is here to help you plan your garden from start to finish. You tell them about your gardening goals and plant preferences, then they'll help you design a garden that you'll love tending to throughout the spring.

• Garland Nursery – 5470 NE Hwy. 20, Corvallis, OR 97330
  With a busy schedule of classes and events every month, there's always something new to see when you visit Garland Nursery. Of course, they also have an outstanding selection of plants, along with all of the gear and supplies that you need for gardening. Planning to come back often? Their Garden Club offers a variety of perks, including special sales open to members only, a robust rewards program, and even exclusive gardening events for members.

• Jefferson Nursery – 15076 Parrish Gap Rd. SE, Jefferson, OR 97352
  A family-owned and operated business, Jefferson Nursery has just opened for the year ahead of the spring 2024 gardening season. Spring hours are every Monday–Saturday from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, and this garden shop is a great choice if you're looking to add a splash of color to your garden this spring. Their extensive selection of annuals, perennials, trees, and shrubs includes something to suit every garden, so why not beat the crowds by stocking up early this year? The greenhouse is already well-stocked, and there will be plenty more to come as we head into spring.

Dreaming of a home with more room for growing and gardening? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR, area.

Why wait until spring to tackle home improvement projects for your Albany or Corvallis home when there's so much that you can get done right now? Handling home improvement projects is an excellent way to invest some of your extra time this winter, and the work that you do now can also make all of your spring projects easier than ever. Our real estate agents have more on some of the home improvement projects you can start early this year to check some important items off of your to-do list and set yourself up for a great 2024 at home.

• Deep Cleaning
  Some of the best home improvement projects for winter involve work that you can take care of indoors, and there's no doubt that a deep cleaning should rank at the top of the list. Take it as a piecemeal project by tackling one room at a time, or set aside a weekend to do it all in one shot. Either way, a deep cleaning should go beyond the surface to clean above, behind, and below all of the furnishings that may collect messes over time. A deep cleaning also presents a great opportunity to take stock of your stuff, clear out any unneeded clutter, and organize your storage spaces so you can keep things tidy throughout the year.

• Landscaping and Garden Prep
  If you love to work on your garden in the spring, a little work in the winter can go a long way in getting your space ready for when it's time to start planting. Winter is an ideal time to clear out weeds, debris, and old mulch while making sure that your soil is ready for spring planting. You can also start planning ahead for what you'll be planting in the spring and even grow some seedlings indoors for a head start. In addition to your garden, winter is also an excellent time to make sure your landscaping is clean, pruned, and ready for growing season.

• Painting and Touch-Ups
  Looking for a relatively easy and affordable way to give any room new life? Painting is the perfect winter home improvement project, whether you're refreshing a room with an entirely new look or touching up while keeping the existing appearance. If you're planning to paint, investing some prep time can make the job much easier and cleaner. Be sure to pick up painter's tape and drop cloths, so you can keep everything tidy while you work.

• Deck and Patio Maintenance
  Just like with your garden, winter is a good time to get your deck and patio ready for an enjoyable spring. Start by cleaning your deck, storing any furniture that won't be needed, and inspecting the deck for damage. Depending on your deck's age, adding a sealant may help to protect it from the elements. If there's any damage that needs to be addressed, you have the choice between taking care of small problems DIY or calling in the pros to handle any work that you're not comfortable doing on your own.

• Smoke Detector Check
  Smoke detectors save lives, but they need to be maintained in order to ensure that they'll do their job in those critical moments. Take the opportunity to make sure that your smoke detector is in good working order, and replace the battery if needed.

Still shopping for a home that you'll love to make your own? Our local team is here to help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany and Corvallis, OR area.