Refresh your deck or patio (on a budget!) with boho accents.
The first step to an entertaining-ready space is, well, a pretty place to gather. Add a rug, funkify old lawn chairs and update tired outdoor cushions for a fresh look.

Choose a theme.

Set the tone of your party with a seasonal theme. This way, guests know what to wear, what to expect and what to bring. We suggest throwing a super low-key adults-only campout, complete with grown-up crafts, games and beverages.

Add privacy with plants.

Those of you living in tight quarters can keep nosy neighbors from snooping with a simple DIY project or two. This plant privacy wall is pretty and functional.
Read more here! https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/entertaining/14-diy-ways-to-create-a-backyard-summer-oasis-pictures ...

SIMPLE IDEAS FOR SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPING
Traditional landscaping (think large, lush grass lawns) aren’t sustainable in the high desert’s arid climate. Here are a few easy ways to make your landscaping at home more friendly for the environment and use less water.

Sustainable landscaping in the high desert is essentially planning, planting, and maintaining your outdoor space in a way that uses water judiciously. Its benefits go beyond being stewards of a limited resource. A sustainable landscape saves time, energy, and money. As a general rule, you can save up to 40 percent on your water bill if you’re managing your irrigation wisely.
Whether designing a new landscape or retrofitting an existing one, selecting low- to moderate-water-use plants and adhering to efficient irrigation practices are key to creating a sustainable outdoor space in our low-moisture environment, said Amy Jo Detweiler, associate professor of horticulture for the OSU Extension in Central Oregoe ...

Many Portland parks and public spaces invite you to make a splash.
When temperatures get toasty, Portland has no shortage of public water fountains for splashing in. (Note: All city fountains are turned on by Memorial Day weekend and operate through September.)
In the Pearl District, kiddos can beat the hat in the wading pool at Jamison Square, where the fountains water drains and fills to simulate a tidal pool and the flower of the Willamette River. A puddle-jump away at downtown’s Director Park, a large, circular fountain tickles toddlers with gentle jets and bubbles. The water feature is ringed by wooden benches; perfect for parents hoping to keep their toes dry.
For those who don’t mind getting wet, Salmon Street Springs at the Waterfront Park is an ever-changing fountain controlled by an underground computer. From beneath the jets of on the sidelines, families enjoy great views of the Willamette River. A quick MAX light rail ride across the Willamette is the Lloyd&r) ...

July 16, 2019




Lower mortgage rates are bringing out more potential home buyers. In certain parts of the country, this has translated into a lot more competition. In markets that have seen prices become more moderate, supply is lower than it was a year ago and bidding wars are becoming more prevalent. For example, a recent Redfin housing index notes that cities like Oklahoma City; Richmond, Va.; Memphis, Tenn.; Buffalo, N.Y.; and Atlanta are seeing buyer demand outpace the number of available homes for sale.
“With low mortgage interest rates luring more home buyers off the sidelines as supply dwindles, we’re likely to see competition pick up, especially for the most affordable homes and neighborhoods, where inventory is limited and buyers are most rate-sensitive,” says Daryl Fairweather, Redfin’s chief economist. He says his brokerage is starting to see an increase in the number of home buyers starting their searches and taking hom ...

How Young Buyers Are Redefining ‘Luxury’

Many millennials are showing interest in high-end homes, but their property wish lists may look different than those of typical wealthy house hunters.















© alisonhancock - Fotolia.com




How Young Buyers Are Redefining ‘Luxury’

Many millennials are showing interest in high-end homes, but their property wish lists may look different than those of typical wealthy house hunters.







June 11, 2019



by Jeff Lottmann




Millennials are known for their ability to change the status quo, whether it’s demanding more options for remote work or raising families in an urban environment rather than settling in the suburbs. And now, when it comes to real estate, they’re changing the meaning of “luxury.”

Millennials, many of whom are in or entering their 30s, are building their wealth and showing interest in high-end homes. In 2017, buyers ...