Amity Oregon’s Local Realtor®
Serving Buyers and Sellers in Amity Oregon since 2003.
Corey Zielsdorf
Owner / Managing Broker
Newdoor Realty Lic# 201249342
503-752-3540 (Direct)
coreyz@newdoorrealty.net
Your Amity Home Featured Here!
Sellers Home Value Toolbox
Q&A: Top 5 Questions to ask before Selling in 2026…
1. “Will mortgage rate stabilization in 2026 increase buyer demand—or will affordability still hold buyers back?”
After several years of rate volatility, many economists expect 2026 to be the first year of true rate stability.
Sellers want to know whether more buyers will re-enter the market and how that affects timing, pricing, and competition.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Pent-up demand may start releasing as buyers adjust to a “new normal.”
- Stabilized rates may increase buyer pool size—but affordability may still cap price growth.
- Sellers need to know if waiting creates advantage or risk.
2. “Is our neighborhood’s inventory expected to rise in 2026—and how will that impact my home’s selling strategy?”
Inventory on Portland’s westside has been slowly rising. If this continues into 2026, sellers may face more competition.
WHY IT MATTERS
- More listings = buyers have more choices = pricing must be sharper.
- Certain neighborhoods (Beaverton/Tigard/Hillsboro) face more new-construction competition.
- Timing your listing to beat the spring inventory wave can increase returns.
3. “How is the 2026 economic outlook expected to influence home values in my specific micro-market?”
2026 may bring slower GDP growth, shifting employment conditions, and moderation in appreciation.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Westside markets tied to tech employment (Hillsboro, Bethany, Cedar Mill) may react differently if hiring slows or stabilizes.
- Areas with high in-migration or lifestyle appeal (Lake Oswego, West Linn, Sherwood) may continue thriving.
- Sellers should expect hyper-local variation—not a one-size-fits-all forecast.
4. “Should I invest in updates before selling in 2026—or will buyers prioritize price and location instead?”
With affordability stretched, buyers may be less willing to pay premiums for highly upgraded homes unless meaningful.
WHY IT MATTERS
- The ‘ROI threshold’ on upgrades is shifting.
- High-impact, low-cost improvements (paint, floors, fixtures, landscaping) still matter.
- Major remodels may not produce 2026-level returns unless they solve functional issues.
- Energy-efficiency upgrades may be more valuable due to rising utility costs.
5. “If I sell now, will I be able to comfortably buy my next home given 2026 lending, equity, and pricing conditions?”
Move-up and downsizing sellers are increasingly concerned about the sell-then-buy transition.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Rate-lock effects may persist into 2026—keeping homeowners hesitant to give up their low-rate mortgages.
- Bridge loans, HELOC strategies, and rent-backs may be necessary tools.
- Evaluating net proceeds + projected purchase costs is essential before listing.
6. BONUS “How will the 2026 election cycle influence buyer confidence and home values in my area?”
Election years often bring uncertainty that affects consumer spending, interest rates, and how quickly buyers make decisions. With the 2026 midterm cycle approaching, sellers should understand how political shifts may impact the timing and strategy of their sale.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Election cycles can temporarily slow buyer activity as households “wait and see.”
- Policy discussions around taxes, housing supply, infrastructure, or interest rates may influence buyer psychology.
- Housing markets with higher-income or relocation-driven buyers (Lake Oswego, West Linn, Sherwood, Bethany) often see more caution during political transitions.
- Listing prior to or after peak election-season noise can affect showing traffic and offer strength.
Final Thoughts…
Need personalized advice on preparing your home for the market? Contact: Corey Zielsdorf, Portland’s Top Westside Real Estate Broker since 2003… Give Corey a call when you are ready to make a move! coreyz@newdoorrealty.net | 503-752-3540
Top 5 Renovations to Maximize Your Home’s Value in 2026...
1. Energy-Efficiency Upgrades (Windows, Insulation, Heat Pump Systems)
With rising utility costs and a strong push toward energy-efficient housing, 2026 buyers are prioritizing homes that lower monthly expenses and reduce carbon footprint.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Energy-efficient homes appraise higher and sell faster in most 2026 projections.
- Heat pumps and upgraded insulation are especially desirable in the Pacific Northwest climate.
- State and federal incentives may continue to make these upgrades more cost-effective.
- Buyers view efficiency as a long-term savings tool—not just a “nice to have.”
2. Kitchen Refresh (Not Full Remodels)
Instead of gutting kitchens, 2026 ROI trends favor lighter, smarter updates that modernize without overspending.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Cabinet refacing, quartz counters, new fixtures, and upgraded lighting provide the highest return.
- Full remodels may not produce 2026’s expected ROI unless the layout is severely outdated.
- Modern, neutral design choices appeal across all buyer groups—especially relocations.
3. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring Throughout Main Areas
LVP continues to dominate buyer demand in the Pacific Northwest due to durability, water resistance, and affordability.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Provides the best value-to-appearance ratio compared to engineered hardwood or carpet.
- Creates a cohesive, modern look that photographs extremely well—key for online exposure.
- Lower installation cost helps maximize overall seller ROI, especially before a market shift.
4. Updated Primary Bathroom (Focus on Showers & Surfaces
Primary suite improvements are still among the highest-value projects—but only strategic upgrades, not full luxury overhauls.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Walk-in tile showers with glass enclosures remain a top buyer preference.
- Fresh tile, updated vanities, and modern fixtures provide significant impact without high cost.
- Spa-style finishes are in high demand as buyers prioritize comfort within the home.
5. Outdoor Living Enhancements (Covered Patio, Deck Refresh, Low-Maintenance Landscaping)
Buyers in 2026 continue to value functional outdoor spaces, especially in the suburbs where yard space is a major selling point.
WHY IT MATTERS
- A covered patio for year-round PNW use increases perceived square footage.
- Simple landscape improvements increase curb appeal without major expense.
- Low-maintenance yards attract busy professionals and downsizing buyers.
6. BONUS! EV-Charging Readiness (Level 2 Charger or Dedicated 240V Outlet)
As EV adoption accelerates and more employers encourage electric commuting, 2026 buyers increasingly expect homes—especially in Westside suburbs—to support fast home charging.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Homes with EV-charging capability appraise higher and draw stronger buyer interest.
- A simple 240V outlet installation offers high ROI with modest cost.
- Attracts tech-sector buyers relocating to Hillsboro, Beaverton, and surrounding areas.
- Futureproofs your home for the next wave of transportation standards.
Final Thoughts…
Before investing in any renovations, consider your home’s current condition and market trends. Some homes may benefit from small cosmetic updates, while others may need more extensive work. Consulting with a real estate professional can help determine which renovations will maximize your home’s value and lead to a quicker sale.
Need personalized advice on preparing your home for the market? Contact Corey Zielsdorf, Portland’s Top Westside Real Estate Broker since 2003… Give Corey a call when you are ready to make a move! coreyz@newdoorrealty.net | 503-752-3540
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Amity Buyer’s Guide
Buying a home is an exciting journey and like any big decision, its important to find trusted resources for unbiased, clear educational guidance! This is why we recommend the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau’s Home Buyers Tools & Resources to help create your personal roadmap for home buying success! When it comes to trusted advisors, you wouldn’t climb Mt Everest without a trusted Sherpa… The same can be said about hiring a Trusted Local Buyer’s Agent to help you navigate one of the biggest decisions of your life!
Q&A: Top 5 Financing Questions For Buyers in 2026
1. What Types of Loans Are Available to Me?
There are several loan options available, each with different requirements:
- Conventional Loans: Require higher credit scores but offer competitive interest rates and flexible terms.
- FHA Loans: Ideal for first-time buyers, requiring as little as 3.5% down with lower credit score requirements.
- VA Loans: Exclusive to veterans and active-duty military members, offering zero down payment and competitive rates.
- USDA Loans: Available to rural and suburban homebuyers in small communities that meet population size criteria.
- AgWest Farm Credit Country Home Loans: Is as perfect fit for the working farm that generates income. These types of properties can often have outbuildings, second residences and commercial agriculture operations such as vineyards, orchards, nurseries and woodlands that are often rejected by traditional banks or credit unions.
2. How Much Down Payment Do I Need?
There are several loan options available, each with different requirements.
- Conventional loans typically require 5%–20% down.
- FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down.
- VA Loans: Exclusive to veterans and active-duty military members, offering zero down payment, competitive rates and are often times assumable!
- USDA Loans: Available for rural and suburban homebuyers with zero down payment options.
- AgWest Farm Credit Country Home Loans typically require 20% down.
3. What Credit Score Do I Need to Qualify for a Mortgage?
- Conventional loans typically require a score of 620 or higher.
- FHA loans allow scores as low as 500 with a 10% down payment or 580 with a 3.5% down payment.
- VA and USDA loans don’t have strict minimums but generally require at least 620.
4. What Are the Closing Costs, and Who Pays Them?
Closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price. Buyers usually pay closing costs, but in some cases, sellers may cover a portion through negotiations. Typical closing costs may include:
- Lender fees (origination fees, appraisal, credit report)
- Title and escrow fees
- Prepaid property taxes and homeowner’s insurance
- Discount points (optional to lower interest rates)
5. How Much Can I Afford to Borrow?
Lenders determine your loan amount based on your income, debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, credit score, and down payment. A “common guideline” is the 28/36 rule:
- No more than 28% of your gross monthly income should go toward your mortgage payment.
- No more than 36% should go toward total debt payments (including mortgage, car loans, student loans, and credit cards).
Final Thoughts…
Getting pre-approved with a lender is the best way to understand how much you can afford and strengthen your offer when house hunting.
Understanding your financing options is a crucial step in the home-buying process. By working with a trusted lender and real estate professional, you can navigate your mortgage options with confidence.
Need help finding a lender or have more questions? Contact Corey Zielsdorf, Portland’s West Side Local Real Estate Broker since 2003… coreyz@newdoorrealty.net
503-752-3540
Q&A: Top 5 Rural Community Housing Market Questions for Buyers in 2026
1. “How will 2026 insurance changes and wildfire-risk mapping affect rural properties in the area I am looking to buy?”
Insurance availability and premiums continue to shift in rural Oregon, especially in tree-dense and slope-grade zones.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Many rural pockets in Yamhill County, the Molalla corridor, Estacada, Colton, and parts of South Salem now fall into elevated wildfire-risk ratings.
- Some insurers require defensible-space inspections or may decline coverage altogether.
- Buyers want to understand how location, vegetation management, and property accessibility impact long-term insurability and affordability.
2. “What should I evaluate with wells, septic systems, and water rights before making an offer?”
Smart rural buyers know due diligence is more complex and often more expensive than in suburban communities.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Water flow tests, potability, and well logs can reveal upcoming repair or replacement costs.
- Septic systems vary widely in age and design; replacement costs continue to climb.
- In agricultural zones—especially in Yamhill and Marion Counties—water rights and irrigation access influence property value and permissible use.
- Buyers must understand the ongoing cost of maintaining independent utilities.
3. “How do zoning overlays and land-use laws affect what I can build or operate on a rural property?”
Many rural buyers assume they can add shops, barns, ADUs, or run businesses—but Oregon land-use laws are strict and its important to research current land use laws.
WHY IT MATTERS
- EFU (Exclusive Farm Use) zones have limitations on dwellings, businesses, and lot partitioning.
- Forest zones in Clackamas and Washington Counties carry wildfire-related building restrictions.
- Buyers must confirm whether future plans—hobby farm, short-term rental, shop, livestock—are actually allowed.
- Understanding land-use early prevents expensive surprises later.
4. “How are rising infrastructure and transportation costs affecting property values in rural communities?”
Rural value isn’t driven only by house quality—it’s driven by connectivity and access.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Road maintenance, bridge conditions, and emergency-response access matter more in 2026 than ever.
- Commute-pattern changes, especially with more hybrid schedules, increase demand for rural homes within 20–40 minutes of job centers.
- Broadband access remains uneven in parts of Yamhill and Marion County; reliable high-speed internet affects both value and financing.
- Sophisticated buyers want to understand long-term livability, not just price per acre.
5. “What long-term maintenance and capital expenses should I expect with acreage properties in 2026?”
Rural living can be rewarding, but buyers must be financially prepared.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Fencing, driveways, drainage systems, barns, wells, and outbuildings require ongoing upkeep.
- Heavy equipment costs (tractors, mowing equipment) catch many first-time rural buyers off guard.
- Storm patterns and soil saturation in winter can damage unpaved roads and slopes.
- Buyers want a realistic view of total ownership cost, not just the mortgage.
6. BONUS “How will the 2026 agriculture and land-use policy updates impact rural property values?”
In 2026, Oregon’s evolving land-use framework—and federal agricultural policy updates—are expected to shape both the desirability and permissible use of rural properties.
- Adjustments to state land-use regulations may affect permissible building sites, farm-related structures, and partitioning potential in EFU and forest zones.
- Federal 2026 Farm Bill updates could influence crop values, timber activity, water-use rules, and incentives for conservation-land designations.
- Rural communities in Yamhill and Marion County may see value shifts tied to agricultural viability and land-management restrictions.
- Buyers who understand policy direction can better evaluate long-term investment potential and avoid purchasing land that can’t support their intended use.
Final Thoughts…
Buying in a rural community in 2026 demands a deeper level of due diligence than ever before, as long-term value is shaped not just by the home itself but by the land beneath it and the policies surrounding it. From wildfire-risk mapping and insurance availability to zoning overlays, water rights, and the rising cost of maintaining acreage, today’s rural buyers must evaluate properties through both a lifestyle and regulatory lens. The right property can offer unmatched privacy, independence, and future potential—but only when buyers understand the complexities that drive rural market stability. With careful analysis and expert guidance, rural homeownership in 2026 can be both a rewarding investment and a sustainable long-term choice.
Need personalized advice on preparing your home for the market? Contact: Corey Zielsdorf, Portland’s Top Westside Real Estate Broker since 2003… Give Corey a call when you are ready to make a move! coreyz@newdoorrealty.net | 503-752-3540
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Testimonials
See what Corey’s clients have to say about working with him…
“My wife and I have bought and sold several properties and worked with many agents throughout the years. Hands down, Corey is the best of all of them! Corey is a breath of fresh air in the process of buying and selling a home. He listens to our needs and provides sound counsel based on his years of experience honestly and impartially. He is always willing to help find a favorable solution in his client’s best interest. He is genuinely interested in getting what’s best for his client, so much so that by listening to Corey’s feedback and insight of the local market, we were able to get an offer the first weekend listed that was significantly higher than surrounding market values! He continued to keep us informed during the entire process, and everything went smoothly! If you are looking for a great Real Estate Agent who can be trusted to represent you ethically and help you navigate a relatively difficult environment, then I recommend Corey Zielsdorf without reservation!”
“Corey helped us with advice to prepare our home to sell and then took us with ease and professionalism to buy the new home that we just love. Both transactions were smooth and Corey made all the difference in making the experience a pleasurable one.“
“Corey from New Door Realty is a full-service real estate broker.
He found us our dream home even though we didn’t recognize it as such at the time. He helped us navigate the shark-infested waters of the real-estate market. He was very hands-on and helped us avoid some bad situations. He helped us get a full-price offer on our existing home. No one will provide more care and a personal touch than Corey. Strongly recommend this guy”
“Corey is a man of integrity…
Corey has helped my family members buy/sell homes for many years. When it was my turn to buy/sell I thought, well just because my family has used Mr. Corey that doesn’t mean he’s the best. Well, I interviewed five different realtors and decided to go ahead and hire him.
A crew of 10 and stats were not what I was after, I wanted someone who after our sale/purchase were over could walk away and tell you about how it all went down and felt good about it, not just happy about their paycheck. I truly believed Corey would always do what was right throughout the process and keep our best interest in mind at all times.”
“Over the past 35 years we have dealt with numerous real estate agents. Corey has been by far the most helpful. Moving from Texas to Oregon was very time consuming with multiple trips to Oregon searching.
Initially I thought that I wanted to live in Redmond or Bend but settled on the other side of the pass. That is when I met Corey. He didn’t just take me from house to house, Corey showed me neighborhoods and towns and provided me with information on the town’s events and services.
During the purchasing process Corey was very helpful during price negotiations and builder’s concessions. Corey always kept us informed with new information no matter how minor. He oversaw the building inspections, repairs, and compliance. Even during our 5 day drive to Oregon, Corey called me on a regular basis with updates. It was a pleasure dealing with Corey. Best agent ever.“
“Corey is a man of integrity and it shows through in his work. No question throughout the process was left unanswered, and I ask a lot of questions.
Corey was accessible and prepared to handle any situation that arose with potential buyers and the same can be said in the search for our new home. Corey made sure we did what was necessary to get top dollar out of the sale. He provided guidance on where to spend money that would lead us to a much higher profit on the flip side of the expense and did not waste our time/money on changes that would not benefit us in the sale.
When it came to buying our new home he was fantastic about telling us if he saw anything in a home that would be of concern and investigated as necessary. Day 2 after our new purchase we had gained equity, that’s the kind of purchase I wanted and got. I would not hesitate to use Corey again and will likely do so many years from now.”