5 Steps to a bedroom makeover

Ready to refresh a bedroom in your home? Here are five steps to get the process headed in the right direction.

1. Choose a color scheme. Don’t make this decision harder than it is. If you’re stuck on choosing a color, start with a neutral (such as gray, creamy white or taupe) and decide on one or two accents that can be easily changed as time goes on.
2. Start sorting. Before you bring in anything new, you must get rid of the old. Donate current bedding, furniture and decorative items that cannot be recycled or refinished to fit the new decorating theme.
3. Pick timeless pieces. For the big-ticket items like a comforter or dresser, choose pieces that will stand the test of time. Use smaller items like throw pillows to add color, texture and patterns.
4. Change up the layout. While new furniture and a coat of paint can help change the feel of a room, a new layout can take it one step farther. Rearrange furnishings to give your room a fresh feel.
5. Switch out light fixtures. If you have a floor lamp, add a chandelier. If you like to read at night, add some soft lighting over your bed. Look for warm lights and avoid fluorescent bulbs that will make your room feel sterile.

 

 

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!

Five Star award Winner 2011- 2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon. 

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES,  Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, Earth Advantage Broker, MASTERS CIRCLE, CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First, Washington First

Direct 503.380.9634, Email-    homesforyou@frontier.com

View a current list of ALL available Houses on the market go to my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

My business is referral based.
If you’ve enjoyed my service, please refer me!

Gorgeous Gresham 1 level remodeled home! $334,999 RMLS#18057987

$334,999, 2136 SE Kelly Ave Gresham, OR 97080, RMLS#18057987

Highly sought after location in one of Gresham finest neighborhood! Rare 1 level home with open & bright floor plan. The large Living room features hardwood floors with a cozy fireplace with custom mantle for you to enjoy on chilly nights or just to set the mood. The dining area is spacious with French doors leading to your solid deck overlooking the generous sized back yard.  The backyard is a blank slate ready for your designs: custom firepit? Secret garden? You name it! Adjacent to the dining area is the GORGEOUS kitchen with new cabinets, quartz counters, beautiful & tasteful tile work, higher end appliances (included!), gas range, wood flooring, and useful and show stopping island! Good sized master suite with sparkling clean, bright bathroom with custom flooring. Newer carpet in the bedrooms, newer exterior and interior paint. Not to mention the jumbo family room. It’s so big you might be able to make a 4^th bedroom and still have a family room! Check out the absolutely stunning light fixtures! See photos and virtual tour on my website. As usual, please call, email, or text with any questions or needs.

Five Star award recipient 2011-2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!!

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES, MASTERS CIRCLE, Earth Advantage Broker, Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First, Realtors

Direct 503.380.9634, Email-    homesforyou@frontier.com

View this and ALL available Houses on the market on my website.

***I’M ALWAYS HAPPY TO HELP YOU AND YOUR REFERRALS***

 

Licensed in the State of Oregon

 

Client Testimonial

Rachel was an amazing agent to us! She explained the entire process from start to finish before we even began searching for homes. She shows the the entire range of homes that fit your price and was able to beat out a competing buyer to get us our dream home! We will be using her for all real estate needs in the future! 5/5 stars

Jefferson & Kayla

Thank you Jefferson & Kayla for the opportunity to help you purchase your first home. What a treat for me to help you and get to know the wonderful people that you are!

 

Five Star award recipient 2011-2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!!

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES, MASTERS CIRCLE, Earth Advantage Broker, Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, CSA-Certified Staging Agent

Oregon First, Realtors, Direct 503.380.9634, Email-   homesforyou@frontier.com

View ALL available Houses on the market on my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

***I’M ALWAYS HAPPY TO HELP YOU AND YOUR REFERRALS***

New Real EstateTax Law – 5 Effects to Home ownership and 1 unchanged

Have you heard about the new tax laws? Congress’ recently passed tax reform, has five changes that might effect homeowners.

1. Mortgage Interest Deduction

The mortgage interest tax deduction is touted as a way to make homeownership more affordable. It cuts the federal income tax that qualifying homeowners pay by reducing their taxable income by the amount of mortgage interest they pay. Beginning in 2018, the deduction is scaled back to interest on debt up to $750,000, instead of $1 million, for people who buy homes on or after Dec. 15, 2017.

• Tax Law Through 2017: You may deduct the interest you pay on mortgage debt up to $1 million ($500,000 if married filing separately) on your primary home and a second home.
• Tax Law Beginning in 2018: For homes bought before Dec. 15, 2017, no change. But for homes bought Dec. 15, 2017, or later, you may deduct the interest you pay on mortgage debt up to $750,000($375,000 if married filing separately).

 

2. Property Tax Deduction

The former tax law eased the pain of paying property taxes by allowing qualifying taxpayers to reduce their taxable income by the total amount of property taxes they paid. Beginning in 2018, the deduction is limited to a total of $10,000 for the cost of property taxes, and state and local income taxes or sales taxes.

• Tax Law Through 2017: You may deduct the property taxes you pay on real estate you own.
• Tax Law Beginning in 2018: You may deduct up to $10,000 ($5,000 if married filing separately) for a combination of property taxes and either state or local income taxes or sales taxes.

3. Home Equity Deduction

On top of the mortgage interest deduction, the former tax law added a deduction for interest paid on home equity debt “for reasons other than to buy, build, or substantially improve your home.” So, for example, if you borrowed from a home equity line of credit to pay tuition, the interest you paid was tax-deductible. Starting in 2018, the deduction is eliminated for interest paid on home equity debt.

• Tax Law Through 2017: You may deduct interest on up to $100,000 of home equity debt ($50,000 if married filing separately).
• Tax Law Beginning in 2018: Eliminates the deduction for interest on home equity debt.

4. Mortgage Interest Deduction For Second Homes

You may deduct interest on mortgage debt on your primary home and a second home. The new law keeps this part of the former tax law in place, although it reduces the amount of eligible mortgage debt, as seen in item No. 1 above.

• Tax Law Through 2017: Deduct the interest you pay on mortgage debt up to $1 million ($500,000 if married filing separately) on your primary home and a second home.
• Tax Law Beginning in 2018: Deduct the interest you pay on mortgage debt up to $750,000 ($375,000 if married filing separately) on your primary home and a second home.

 

5. Moving Expenses

Under the former tax law, you could deduct some moving expenses when you moved for a new job. You had to meet complex criteria involving distance and timing of the move. Beginning in 2018, only active-duty members of the armed forces will be allowed to deduct moving expenses.

• Tax Law Through 2017: Deduct some moving expenses if you meet distance and time requirements.
• Tax Law Beginning in 2018: Only active duty members of the armed forces may deduct moving expenses.

 

Capital Gains rule has NOT changed

Changing the capital gains rule was on the chopping block, but thankfully it has not changed. When you sell a house, the capital gain is the difference between the price you paid for it and the price you sold it for. This capital gain is treated as taxable income. If you owned the house long enough, you’re allowed to exclude up to $500,000 (for married couples) of this capital gain as income so you don’t have to pay federal income tax on it. (The exclusion is capped at $250,000 for taxpayers filing separately.)

• You must have owned the home, and used it as your primary residence, during at least two of the five years before the date of sale. You cannot have used this exclusion in the two years before the sale of the home.

Would you like to know more? I’m not an accountant, but I can give guidance on home values, market conditions, buying, selling, and a couple great recommendations. For more information the new tax laws contact tour favorite CPA or call me and I’d be happy to refer you.

Five Star award recipient 2011-2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!!

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES, MASTERS CIRCLE, Earth Advantage Broker, Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, CSA-Certified Staging Agent

Oregon First, Realtors, Direct 503.380.9634, Email-   homesforyou@frontier.com

View ALL available Houses on the market on my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

***I’M ALWAYS HAPPY TO HELP YOU AND YOUR REFERRALS***

Thanks you Lewis Holden for the original article sited here.

Lewis, Holden, and Holden Lewis Holden is a personal finance writer for NerdWallet. He previously covered mortgages and real estate at Bankrate. Read more twitterTwitteremailEmail. “Tax Plan Compromise: What Happens to Homeownership?”NerdWallet, 20 Dec. 2017,

 

5 Steps To A Bedroom Makeover

Ready to refresh a bedroom in your home? Here are five steps to get the process headed in the right direction.

1. Choose a color scheme. Don’t make this decision harder than it is. If you’re stuck on choosing a color, start with a neutral (such as gray, creamy white or taupe) and decide on one or two accents that can be easily changed as time goes on.
2. Start sorting. Before you bring in anything new, you must get rid of the old. Donate current bedding, furniture and decorative items that cannot be recycled or refinished to fit the new decorating theme.
3. Pick timeless pieces. For the big-ticket items like a comforter or dresser, choose pieces that will stand the test of time. Use smaller items like throw pillows to add color, texture and patterns.
4. Change up the layout. While new furniture and a coat of paint can help change the feel of a room, a new layout can take it one step farther. Rearrange furnishings to give your room a fresh feel.
5. Switch out light fixtures. If you have a floor lamp, add a chandelier. If you like to read at night, add some soft lighting over your bed. Look for warm lights and avoid fluorescent bulbs that will make your room feel sterile.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!!

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES, MASTERS CIRCLE, Diversity Specialist, HOWNW,  CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First, Realtors

Five Star award recipient 2011-2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon.

Direct: 503.380.9634, Email: homesforyou@frontier.com

View ALL available houses on the market on my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

***I’M NEVER TOO BUSY FOR YOU AND YOUR REFERRALS***

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL FROM AMY!

Thank you Ken & Amy for the opportunity to once again be of service. Being called in to help your Parents is an honor i don’t take lightly. I really appreciate the fine testimonial. Thank you!

I have known Rachel for over 13 years, this is not the first time I have worked with her. Rachel is always very professional, attentive to detail and easy to work with… she never left any questions unanswered and always responded promptly. She works hard for her clients and deserves the highest praise.. I would highly recommend anyone seeking a truly professional realtor to connect with Rachel.

Thank you Rachel for your VERY hard work and dedication.. we truly appreciate it.

Amy Koppler

Five Star award recipient 2011- 2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!!

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES, Diversity Specialist, HOWNW, Earth Advantage Broker, MASTERS CIRCLE, CSA-Certified Staging Agent

Oregon First, Realtors

Direct 503.380.9634

Email-    homesforyou@frontier.com

View ALL available Houses on the market on my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

***I’M ALWAYS HAPPY TO HELP YOU AND YOUR REFERRALS***

Client Review from Rachel P.

Thank you Rachel for taking the time to write this testimonial! i think your the best!

Rachel is nothing less than amazing. We sold our home during an emotionally difficult situation and she was immediately there to help and reassure us every step of the way. What seemed to start as a pretty cut and dry situation turned very difficult, she was patient with my weekly (probably more) melt downs, and she fought for our best interest. When dealing with people who were anything but professional she always stayed classy. I will definitely be calling Rachel the next time I need a realtor. Her years of experience and passion for people makes her the best around.

Five Star award recipient 2011- 2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!!

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES, Diversity Specialist, HOWNW, Earth Advantage Broker, MASTERS CIRCLE, CSA-Certified Staging Agent

Oregon First, Realtors

Direct 503.380.9634

Email-    homesforyou@frontier.com

View ALL available Houses on the market on my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

***I’M ALWAYS HAPPY TO HELP YOU AND YOUR REFERRALS***

Have you wondered how much prices are increasing near you? Here are the latest numbers….

Have you wondered the appreciation (increase in value) rates are in our city? What about the days on the market(how long it takes to sell)? What about the average sales price for your City? Take a look at the very latest numbers for your City. For more specific information on your neighborhood and home please call, email, or text me anytime.

Five Star award recipient 2011- 2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!!

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES, Diversity Specialist, HOWNW, Earth Advantage Broker, MASTERS CIRCLE, CSA-Certified Staging Agent

Oregon First, Realtors

Direct 503.380.9634

Email-    homesforyou@frontier.com

View ALL available Houses on the market on my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

***I’M ALWAYS HAPPY TO HELP YOU AND YOUR REFERRALS***

 

The Top Reasons Why People Move

American home owners sell and move, on average, every seven years. People who have lived in the same home for the past 30 years may have a hard time understanding all this moving! They are shocked that people move so often, but I know one thing for certain: Their day to sell will come eventually.

Here are the top reasons why people sell:

• The home is too small. First-time home buyers often outgrow their “starter” homes. As family size increases many home owners feel like they need more space.
• The neighborhood has changed.It’s hard for many people to stay in a neighborhood that has changed negatively over time. Difficult neighbors, crime and generally feeling unsafe will push people to move if they can afford it.
• To fix overlooked needs. Owners might believe they made a mistake when purchasing their present home and want to rectify that mistake. Maybe they thought they could get by without a back yard but are now interested in gardening, or they didn’t think about needing a large dining room to host those game nights with friends.
• Job transfer. Relocation makes it necessary for many to move. If the commuting distance exceeds an hour, most people would rather sell and mover closer to work to avoid sitting in traffic.
• Death in the family. It’s a sad fact of life, but many people eventually end up selling their parents or grandparents home, after the passing of the family member. It’s also very common for homeowners to transfer title to a property into a trust to avoid probate proceedings. This allows the successor trustee to sell the property without court approval.
• Personal relationships. Moving in with a partner or getting married can mean one of the parties will need to sell, especially if both owned homes prior to the commitment. On the other hand, break-ups cause owners to sell as well.
• Empty nest.The kids have grown up and moved out. The owners want a single-story house, a smaller home or a smaller yard. Who wants to keep up all that? Downsizing a home is very popular among retirees.
• Community living. Active-adult communities are attracting many buyers over the age of 55. These planned communities have golf courses, workout facilities, weekend social gatherings and more.
• See family more often. Some people want to be closer to their family as they age and will move to be near relatives. Parents want to be near children. Grandparents, near their children and grandchildren.
• See family less often. To put more distance between the home owners and relatives. Some might move out of state to keep harmony within the family. Sometimes distance is key.
• Lifestyle change.Some people are looking to change their lifestyle and would prefer to travel or pursue a hobby. Many people past a certain age want to find a calling that is meaningful to them. For these people, home ownership loses its priority status and turns equity into cash for following their dreams.
• Home improvement or flipping.A small segment of people enjoys fixing up a home and flipping it, changing homes every two years or so. Once the work is completed, it’s on to the next home!

If you’re thinking about moving please give a call! I’d love to help!

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!!

 

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES, MASTERS CIRCLE, Diversity Specialist, HOWNW,  CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First, Realtors

Five Star award recipient 2011-2017 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon.

Direct 503.380.9634, Email-   homesforyou@frontier.com

View ALL available Houses on the market on my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

***I’M NEVER TOO BUSY FOR YOU AND YOUR REFERRALS***

Create a Calming Space in Your Home

Every home needs a space dedicated to relaxing and rejuvenating. Whether it’s a bedroom, a meditation room or just a corner of the basement, here are some ways to make that place your calming space.

Use calming colors. Decorate with cool tones and muted colors to allow your brain to relax. Avoid harsh colors or busy prints. Taupe, gray, lavender, blush pink, or nearly any shade of blue are all colors that calm our senses.

Minimize the noise. Keep technology to a minimum because bright screens strain your eyes and busy your mind. Make the space a phone-free zone so you can avoid interrupting alerts and buzzes. An ambient noise machine is a great noise substitute, allowing you to listen to the sounds of ocean waves or rainfall.

Maximize the comfort level. Make the area comfortable and cozy. Fill it with soft pillows and blankets to make this space luxurious and nap-friendly. (Oversized, faux fur pillows are trending.) Set the mood for relaxation with soft lights that make the room glow.

Soothe your senses. Use a candle warmer or oil diffuser to fill the room with mellow scents. Eucalyptus, lavender, cedar, and mint are all natural, soft smells that leave your space feeling clean and inviting. Candles are great for soft, flickering light and peaceful scents, but be sure to blow them out before leaving your calming space.

Thinking about selling? Call me, i can help! I can also offer more information on staging your home! I’m a CSA! Certified Staging Agent.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!!

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES, MASTERS CIRCLE, Diversity Specialist, HOWNW,  CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First, Realtors

Five Star award recipient 2011-2017 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon.

 

Direct 503.380.9634, Email-    homesforyou@frontier.com

View ALL available Houses on the market on my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

***I’M NEVER TOO BUSY FOR YOU AND YOUR REFERRALS***