Perched on the edge of a basalt cliff, the Oregon City Municipal Elevator stands tall as a unique piece of history and engineering. Rising 130 feet above the ground, it serves as the only outdoor municipal elevator in the U.S., offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past and present. Originally constructed in 1915, the elevator was a much-needed solution to the challenging terrain of Oregon City. Before its inception, residents faced a daunting climb of 722 steps to traverse the steep cliff. The elevator’s water-powered mechanism initially provided a jerky three-minute ride, offering a ..read more

The U.S. Bancorp Tower, affectionately known as the Big Pink, rises 42 stories above Portland, Oregon, standing tall as an iconic symbol of the city’s skyline. Designed by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill (SOM) with the esteemed Pietro Belluschi as a consultant, this skyscraper, soaring 536.0 feet high, commands attention with its striking presence. With construction costs totaling $60 million, the ground was broken on May 29, 1981, marking the beginning of an architectural marvel that would soon become a defining feature of Portland’s urban landscape. Upon its largely completed status in June 198 ..read more

Nestled along the winding curves of the Historic Columbia River Highway, Vista House emerges as a beacon of architectural brilliance, embodying the creative vision of renowned Portland architect Edgar M. Lazarus. Erected in 1917, this majestic structure was conceived as more than just a resting stop for travelers; it was designed to offer solace and accessibility to the awe-inspiring wonders of the gorge. Inspired by German “Art Nouveau” architecture, Vista House is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship, with its intricate details crafted by skilled native Italian artisans. From the meticulou ..read more

By Thomas I. Hall Are you considering purchasing a new construction home? While it may be tempting to navigate the process on your own, hiring a qualified real estate professional can offer numerous benefits and ensure a smooth and successful transaction. Here are several reasons why hiring a real estate broker is essential when purchasing a new construction home: 1. Guidance Realtors® are knowledgeable about the real estate market and many have extensive experience with new construction properties, specifically. An agent can provide valuable guidance and insights throughout the entire home-bu ..read more

By: Thomas I. Hall Key Considerations Before Listing Your New Construction Are you considering selling your recently constructed home? Before you list, there are several important factors to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and successful sale. From understanding the unique features of your new construction to navigating the market dynamics, here’s what you need to know: 1. Know Your Home Know your home inside and out. Familiarize yourself with all the features and upgrades of your newly constructed home. Highlight any customizations or premium finishes that set your property apart from others ..read more

A Guide to Navigating Debt Guest blog post by: Don Lewis, abilitylabs.com Owning a home is more than a milestone; it’s a dream for many. Yet, the challenge of managing debt often obstructs the path to turning this dream into reality. For those looking to embark on this journey within the next 6-12 months, a proactive approach to financial management is not just beneficial; it’s essential. This guide, courtesy of Paris Group Realty, is crafted to navigate the complexities of debt. It offers strategies that pave the way for future homeownership and instill a sense of financial discipline and rea ..read more

The History and Controversial Architecture of the Portland Building Designed by renowned architect Michael Graves, the Portland Building, also known as the Portland Municipal Services Building, was constructed in 1982 as administrative offices for the City of Portland. Its distinctive postmodern architecture, featuring a variety of surface materials, vibrant colors, and decorative flourishes, sets it apart from traditional office buildings of its time. The building’s unique design, characterized by small windows and prominent decorative elements, challenged conventional architectural norms, ma ..read more

Your Guide to Preparing Your Home to List this Spring. Are you gearing up to sell your home this spring? One of the essential steps in preparing your property for listing is ensuring it’s clean and presentable. A well-maintained home not only attracts potential buyers but also enhances its market value. Here are ten top tips to help you get your home sparkling clean and ready to impress: 1. Declutter Begin by decluttering each room, removing unnecessary items, and organizing belongings. Clearing out clutter creates a sense of space and allows buyers to envision themselves living in the home. C ..read more

Your Quick Guide to Buying a Home in Portland, Oregon with Paris Group Realty, LLC In the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Portland, Oregon offers a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty. If you’re considering buying a home in this vibrant city, Paris Group Realty, LLC is your key to unlocking the doors of your dream home. Here’s a quick overview of everything you need to know about the home-buying process with us: 1. Discover Your Ideal Portland Neighborhood Before embarking on your home-buying journey, explore the diverse neighborhoods that make up the Portland landscape. From the t ..read more

Launching Your Home Business: A Guide to Relocating and Entrepreneurship Guest blog post by: Don Lewis, abilitylabs.com Launching a home-based business and relocating at the same time is an awful lot like juggling on a tightrope: challenging, sure, but doable with the right skills! Careful planning and strategic actions are vital to balancing these dual responsibilities. Today, Paris Group Realty. LLC will explore key strategies to tackle both moving and setting up your business, with zero compromise on either front. Create a Budget Before taking the plunge, conduct a comprehensive financial a ..read more