Throughout the United States, concerns about the availability and pricing of homes have moved to the forefront of city planners and legislators–particularly in urban areas. From 1986 to 2017, the median price of a single-family detached home increased from 370% of the median annual income to 410%. In short, that means housing prices have grown […]
State of Oregon
Can I Build a Detached Home Office in my Backyard?
The popularity of adding living space by building sheds and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on one’s property has grown tremendously over the past decade. While some homeowners enjoy having a space for solitude to enjoy yoga, painting, or woodworking, others use the additional living space to house elderly family members or as a source of […]
What Does It Mean if an Oregon Property For Sale Has a Measure 49 Approval on it?
Since its earliest days, Oregon’s city, county, and state governments have strictly regulated land use throughout the state. Land use regulations serve several purposes, from preserving the natural environment to ensuring the most efficient use of space. Unfortunately for many property owners, land-use provisions can change–impacting future development plans and property values. Voters passed Measure […]
What Does it Take to Live Off the Grid in Oregon?
Adventurous homeowners are exploring options to escape being tied down by monthly utility bills and live off the grid. Those with enough land for farming may find they can live reasonably cheaply and leave their traditional 8 to 5 jobs behind. While television shows can make off-the-grid living seem accessible to anyone with enough guts […]