It's been a long while since I have contributed to my blog. I think now is the best time to start blogging again and getting people excited about purchasing their first or next home in Oregon. After all, the "Real Estate Season" is right around the corner! Why not get a head start?
This last month alone I have helped two dear friends purchase their very first home and they will receive $8,000 JUST for buying now! If they live in the home for 3 years they DONT HAVE TO PAY A PENNY BACK! You are getting PAID to buy a home. PAID to make an investment! Talk about a killer opportunity! You dont have to be a first timer to qualify either! As long as you have not owned a home (paid any sort of mortgage payments) in the last 3 years, you are also eligible! Visit: http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/2009/home2.html for more information on if you qualify. Although a huge incentive to purchase before December of 2009, this shouldn't be your only reason for buying a home.
I haven't even mentioned the killer deal one of them got on a brand new home that was bank owned! I am talking thousands and thousands off the purchase price, major incentives, no closing costs paid by the purchaser, all appliances, instant equity... the works! There are so many of these deals floating around right now.
Over the last few years the Real Estate market has been up and down..a lot more down lately than one might like. To turn a negative into a positive, it is the best time to purchase your next home for a handful of great reasons. With SO many incentives to buy right now it is hard to walk away from the opportunity.
Here are a few more reasons to ponder and hopefully motivate you to dig deep and take advantage of the Portland real estate market.
*Interest rates are at record lows! We haven't seen rates this low since 1998! We are talking mid 4% rates and predictions point in the direction of rates dropping even lower within the next 60 days! For more information on how to get the ball rolling, rates, how to qualify and any other questions, please contact Kurt Simmons @ Central Source Banking. #503-653-1203 or kurtwsimmons@comcast.net He can also be found on our company website: http://www.vitalityhomerealty.com/preferred_lender.htm
*People are practically giving away their homes to avoid foreclosure. We haven't seen this many short sales/foreclosures in a very long time. This is unfortunate for sellers but a great opportunity for you as a buyer! Contact me for a list of local foreclosures and short sales.
*You can feel confident in knowing that your equity in a purchase within the next few months is only going to increase.
*Property Tax Deductions: Real Estate property taxes paid for a first home and a vacation home are fully deductible for income tax purposes. Read what the IRS has published regarding tax information for first-time home buyers. Any Interest on your mortgage is also a tax write off.
*There is a good chance that owning and paying for a home is the only way some people will be able to retire. And the earlier you can get in the game of ownership, the better off you will be sooner in life.
*The PRIDE of owning your own home is by far the most rewarding reason to purchase. This is a great time to stop throwing away rent money each month and start investing in your own future.
In summary, Owning a home is not only still the "American Dream", it is an important part of our national economy. The financial benefits can easily be seen and experienced over the long run. The other benefits, while not so easy to measure, may be the most important ones. Buying your first home, even in a "down" market is a wise choice, and will eventually be one of the best financial decisions of your life.
For more information or for a list of homes for sale in your neighborhood, please feel free to email me or visit our website: www.vitalityhomerealty.com to set up your own property search that will notify you when a new match is on the market.
Don't forget that at Vitality Home Realty we pride ourselves in donating 3% of each transaction on your behalf, to one of our three non-profits in Portland, Oregon,. This allows you, the new home owner, to use that donation as a tax write off and of course gives you the opportunity to help others at no additional cost or effort. You cannot put a price tag on that, it is priceless!
Happy House Hunting!!! :-)
Parvaneh Kalantari Owner & Principal Broker
Thinking of buying your FIRST HOME? CHECK THIS OUT! 02-25-2009
If you have been waiting for the perfect time to purchase your first home...the time is NOW!
Do you qualify? Check out the below requirements to find out!
What The Stimulus Bill Says
In Sec. 1006 of the 407 page Stimulus bill you’ll find the information about the home buyer’s tax credit. It reads:
Extension of and increase in first-time homebuyer credit; waiver of requirement to pay
What does this mean? It means that first-time buyers can claim a credit worth $8,000 - or 10% of the home’s value, whichever is less - on their 2008 or 2009 taxes. To qualify for the credit, the home must be purchased between Jan. 1, 2009 and Nov. 30, 2009.
You cannot have owned a house for the past three years to qualify as “first time” buyer. You also must live in the purchased house for at least three years, or you will be obligated to pay back the credit.
The tax credit does come with some income restrictions. To get the credit, homebuyers have to earn less than $75,000 for singles or $150,000 for couples. If you make more than that you may qualify for a partial credit.
Getting the credit should be pretty easy, just claim it on your return. No other forms or papers should need to be filed, and if you have already completed your return, you can file an amended return to claim the credit.
How To Get Your First Time Home buyer Tax Credit
A review of the provisions of the first time homebuyer tax credit:
You cannot have owned a home for the past 3 years to qualify as a “first time” buyer.
It applies to homes purchased January 1, 2009 through November 30, 2009.
You must keep the home for three years.
The credit is refundable.
The credit is for $8,000 or 10% of the home’s value, whichever is less.
It phases out for incomes between $75,000 to $95,000 for single and $150,000 to $170,000 for couples.
BEST deal in town! PRICE IS FLEXIBLE!!! 02-16-2009
There is NO better deal in Happy Valley! If you are in the market to buy, this is the best investment out there! THIS IS A NEW HOUSE THAT IS ALMOST COMPLETE! The finishes are top of the line! GREAT school district and location. VIEWS! HUGE landscaped lot! You cannot find a better deal in town. Practically giving this house away! THIS PRICE IS VERY FLEXIBLE!!!
Contact me @ 503-260-1003 for additional information or to schedule a showing. This will sell FAST!
From Sunnyside (L) on 152nd (L) on Frye (R) on 147th (L) on Mtn Ridge
Public:
This is a rare opportunity for an easy purchase and a terrific deal. Bank owned property that has price to sell quick. $100k below original sales price. Home will be completed in 30 days. This home has great Mountain views and the home has many wonderful features. Compare the quality and price to others in the market. The bank will give a response in 2 business days.
APPROXIMATE ROOM SIZES AND DESCRIPTIONS
Living:
M
/
/
Mstr Bd:
U
/
/
Baths - Full.Part
Kitchen:
M
/
/
2nd Bd:
U
/
/
Upper Lvl:
2.0
Dining:
M
/
/
3rd Bd:
U
/
/
Main Lvl:
1.0
Family:
M
/
/
UTILITY
U
/
/
Lower Lvl:
0.0
4TH-BD
U
/
/
DEN/OFF
M
/
/
Total Bth:
3.0
FEATURES AND UTILITIES
Kitchen:
DISHWAS, DISPOSL, GASAPPL, ISLAND, PANTRY, FS-RANG
OPEN HOUSE TODAY in Happy Valley! 10/12/2008 from 1-4pm. 10-12-2008
Come and join me at my NEW Beautiful listing in Happy Valley.
14443 SE Donatello Loop.
No Detail Overlooked! This Amazing Home is Gorgeously Detailed Using Only the Finest Finishes, Accents, and Materials!
A few of the features of this home, include:
GRAND Two story entrance. High Marble-Painted Pillars at Entry. Master bedroom suite with jacuzzi for two, & large walk-in on the main level. Over-sized 3 car garage. LARGE 10,000 sq.ft. Private Lot, plenty of room for kids to run, garden or even put in a POOL! Grand Front Entry Water Feature, Sprinklers & Drip system, Full Fenced and gas Hook-up for BBQ. Hardwoods, Tile and upgraded carpet throughout. Two Story Windows and Ceiling with Great Molding Accents, American Cherry Built-Ins and Gas Fireplace with Marble Surround.
For more information and directions, please call Parvaneh: 503-260-1003. Click Here: Happy Valley Home for Sale. Visit: www.vitalityhomerealty.com for more information.
Hope to see you today! :)
Celebrate The HEART More Than the CHECKBOOK 07-29-2008
A a community, we should actively acknowledge the fact that homeownership in the United States hit 67.8 percent during the first quarter of 2008. In Oregon and Washington, rates have hovered around 68 percent or so for a couple of years. These solid averages, however, are not making headlines on a daily basis. Instead, we are bombarded by the media with more dra- matic and negative-impact news stories.
Two thirds of Americans own a home. that is a great thing for our communities and our nation. Where we live is a personal choice that impacts every area of our lives, including how we recreate and the freedom we have to create the kind of social life we want. We talk about our families, friends, hobbies, work and school — all of which is made possible through the silent pride of homeownership.
You can place blame on many negative phenomena in today’s society, such as high energy costs, increased debt levels or higher taxes, but it seems like there is a subtle dismissal of the old- fashioned qualities of life.
Having a roof over your head could once again be a satisfying concept even if the value of the house doesn’t appreciate in astronomical amounts as it may have in the past.
Houses have become like stocks. Value is no longer placed in the joy and responsibility of homeownership; it’s what a home brings you as a financial holding that counts.
The pace of real estate transactions picked up in the mid-1990s. an increase in home appreciation mandated a shift in the psychology of how we relate to housing and how we frame discussions concerning homeownership. With good reason, Americans rejoiced at the chance to increase their net worth in ways other than waiting to collect an annual pay raise. We became willing to take more risk and buy more house than we could afford because we figured time would reward us.
As of late, however, the escalator ride on the way up has stopped and most Americans are reportedly seeing their personal net worth floundering or decreasing in chilling proportions as their home values and stock market holdings drop.
Stabilization and looking forward to a brighter future in 2009 are what lay ahead of us. Having a roof over your head could once again be a satisfying concept even if the value of the house doesn’t appreciate in astronomical amounts as it may have in the past. the worldwide home products retailer IKEa embodies this notion in their ‘Home Is the Most Important Place In the World’ campaign, which focused on pointing out that houses can be just a great thing to have and enjoy.
As our lives march on into some pretty murky waters, change is “out” and stability is “in” as homeownership creates safety. You personally, or your whole team, can be the driving force that turns daily conversations around on a client-by- client basis. Get prospects to once again view a house as a home as much as it is an investment. as we help clients get back into this mindset, our own conversations might also magically show that we once again view a prospect as a person and not as target or a transaction.
-By Brent Dahl CMP Principal Broker Magazine
Vitality on the COVER of the Home Section! 07-21-2008
This was a story featured on the Cover of the Home Section in the West Linn Tidings and Lake Oswego Review. If you have a chance to grab a copy, the story actually features a few more pictures and information that is not in this article below. Very exciting stuff and SPECIAL thank you to Nicole Decosta, the best writer and gal I have had the pleasure of working with.
Energy in motion
By Nicole DeCosta
The Lake Oswego Review, Jul 17, 2008, Updated Jul 17, 2008
Jonathan House / Lake Oswego Review
Parvaneh Kalantari and her dogs Spikoli, at left, and Bauer play outside West Linn High School where she graduated from. Since then, she has become a principal broker, gained experience in the local housing market and started her own company, Vitality Home Realty. With each transaction, Kalantari and her small team donates a portion of their commission to a local non-profit organization in their client’s name.
Pink and black.
Two colors.
Two words.
Bubble gum.
Midnight.
Many things are pink and black. The colors have two different personalities. Parvaneh Kalantari could be described as pink and black – fun yet professional, bold yet refined.
As a 24-year-old real estate broker, Kalantari chose these two colors to signify her new real estate business, Vitality Home Realty, of which she is the principal broker and owner. Now six years into her real estate career, Kalantari started her own company because she, “thrives on building relationships,” she said.
“I wanted to tie in my love of real estate, relationships and the community,” Kalantari said. “I want to give back and do something beneficial for others.”
That’s why Vitality is partnering with local, non-profit organizations.
With each transaction, Vitality agents donate three percent of the commission – before taxes – to either the Raphael House of Portland, the Children’s Cancer Association or DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital.
“The clients pick the organization they’d like to donate to. It’s in their name,” Kalantari said. “And it’s a tax write-off for them.”
Kalantari said she chose these organizations because her real estate company serves buyers and sellers in the greater Portland area.
“In 20 minutes or less you can drive to all these places and see what they’re all about,” Kalantari said. “In 30 days – the typical timeframe for a transaction – (clients) can determine what is important for them and where to donate.”
Philanthropy is at the heart of Vitality, she said.
“This is to show people how easy it is to make a difference in someone else’s life,” Kalantari said. “You’re providing a shelter for you and yours and at the same time providing one for someone who’s not as fortunate to do so at this time.”
After growing up in West Linn and graduating from West Linn High School, Kalantari got her real estate license and spent a few years at John L. Scott at Cascade Summit and then went on to sell 111 condominiums in one year, she said, with the homebuilding company, Marnella Homes, which she was with for two years.
She bought her first condo when she was 20 and said designing the logo for Vitality – which is a pattern of pink and black circles – with Art4orm Marketing was fun.
“Looking at the logo reminds me of energy,” Kalantari said. “It looks very different. It’s not your typical real estate sign.”
The company’s slogan, “Let our energy move you” refers to both buyers and sellers but also the emotional element of giving back to the community.
“I love DoveLewis, and I’ve taken a handful of pets there,” she said. “They know me there, and I love the events they do.”
DoveLewis is the only 24-hour non-profit and ICU animal hospital in Oregon. With two locations – in northwest and southeast Portland – DoveLewis is known for their community outreach and creative fund-raisers.
“At DoveLewis we treasure local partners like Parvaneh, whose passion for building philanthropy into her business is inspiring,” said Naomi Pollock, who is in charge of Dove’s partner development. “At DoveLewis we’re all about the human-animal bond. Parvaneh has creatively found a way to honor that bond.”
The Raphael House of Portland provides immediate shelter to women and children fleeing domestic violence.
“For most people, the most important place is their home. Raphael House of Portland is a place that over 350 women and children call home every year. Parvaneh recognizing this is critical to raising both awareness and funds for our programs and services,” said Jessica Elkan, director of development at Raphael House.
The Children’s Cancer Society is a leader in pediatric patient care and partners with key children’s hospitals to deliver programs and services.
“The Children’s Cancer Society brings in children for about 18 months and while they’re there, hooks them up with a ‘chemo pal,’ someone who comes in every month for the whole time period,” Kalantari said, who is waiting to find out who her chemo pal will be. “Life’s too short to work all the time.”
So, how much money is donated during a transaction?
Let’s say someone buys a $500,000 house and the Realtor’s commission is three percent – $15,000. Three percent of that $15,000 ($450) is donated to one of these charities.
“On top of that I have my lender and inspection company, title and insurance guys also donate a percentage,” Kalantari said. “It can add up quick.”
Kalantari said she believes this concept is going to reach a certain group of people – “those people who always want to help and those are the people I truly hope to work with,” she said.
Lately Kalantari has felt inspired by the feedback she’s been getting from clients about Vitality’s business model of giving back.
“She’s professional but charismatic. She’s an aggressive young woman, starting her own business,” said Joe Robinson, Kalantari’s client who purchased a home in Oregon City. “We got our letters from the charities that she donated in our name. She’s the one that’s really giving.”
Her small staff also contributes to the energy that Vitality emits.
“It’s not just about real estate or money. It’s about taking the extra step along the way to help someone else out,” said Jeff Berard, broker with Vitality. “It seems like this company makes it so easy to do something so important.”
While Kalantari just celebrated her first wedding anniversary, she said she hopes to travel, work and continue to build her business before having children in a few years. Right now, she said, she is energetic about sharing Vitality’s concept of giving back with her clients.
“And finding them their perfect home,” she said. “I love working with first-time homebuyers. I want to help them through this stressful time and show them how fun and exciting it can also be,” she said. “A lot of my friends are at that age where they are buying homes.”
And that could mean a lot more people making donations to Vitality’s non-profits.
“I hope the company truly makes a difference and other people start using the concept to benefit others,” she said. “My slogan is, ‘let our energy move you.’ Vitality means energy.”
For more information about Vitality Home Realty, visit the Web site at www.vitalityhomerealty.com or call 503-477-9758.
Pets in the Pearl 07-18-2008
COME VISIT VITALITY HOME REALTY AT BOOTH #46! WIN GREAT PRIZES AND HAVE SOME FREE TREATS FOR YOU AND YOUR PET!!! Click HERE for the walking map and booth information.
The Cat Adoption Team (CAT) and DoveLewis Emergency & ICU Animal Hospital invite you to participate in the 3rd annual Pets in The Pearl – a fundraising festival for pets and the people who love them!
The event is scheduled for Saturday, July 19th, 2008, from 10am to 3pm outdoors at the Ecotrust Conference Center near Jamison Square in the heart of Portland’s Pearl District (CLICK HERE for a map). Pets in The Pearl will include a community-wide fundraising challenge where animals are helping animals leading up to July 19th.
Guests will enjoy a pet mall full of merchandise, gifts and services, live entertainment, refreshments, raffle prizes, pet adoptions, vaccine and microchip clinics, animal experts, and more!
Proceeds from Pets in The Pearl will help CAT and DoveLewis continue to offer medical help to hundreds of our community’s injured strays or lost pets who have nowhere else to go. Through a unique partnership between DoveLewis and CAT, stray cats often receive emergency and stabilizing care at DoveLewis, followed by a transfer to CAT where they may receive ongoing care, or find a new, loving home.
Who Are The Two Organizations Who Will Benefit?
Cat Adoption Team and DoveLewis Emergency & ICU Animal Hospital are both unique, local non-profit organizations with a related mission of providing vital care to our community’s animals, promoting the well-being of pets and strengthening the human animal bond through community outreach and education.
Proceeds from Pets in The Pearl will help CAT and DoveLewis continue to offer medical help to hundreds of our community’s injured strays or lost pets who have nowhere else to go. Through a unique partnership between DoveLewis and CAT, stray cats often receive emergency and stabilizing care at DoveLewis, followed by a transfer to CAT where they may receive ongoing care, or find a new, loving home.
We're starting to "fill in the blanks" on our schedule – keep an eye on this page, because we'll be updating often!
10:00 am
Let the shopping commence!
The list of vendor booths is growing daily – CLICK HERE to see who has signed up so far.
Raffle tickets go on sale for the 2:00 drawing. Many exciting prizes have been donated by our sponsors – but you can't win if you don't buy a ticket...
Try out a "new look"! Face Painting by Tina will be available from 10-2:00 pm. Only $3 for 1/2 face, $5 for your whole face – and 10% will go to Pets in The Pearl!
Hot Dog on a Stick will also be serving up delicious fresh squeezed lemonade for a donation to Pets in The Pearl.
Rogue Brewery will be selling their micro brews and loosening up our visitors (and their wallets). Rogue will be donating 50% of their proceeds to the Pets in The Pearl.
Buy a specially designed Pets in The Pearl tee for your four-legged friend at the bentley B booth – the proceeds will be donated to Pets in The Pearl.
Glacéau Vitamin Water will be providing complimentary "responsible hydration" with their Smart and Vitamin Water.
Author Cate Garrison will be on hand to sign and sell copies of her popular book OF MUTTS AND MEN, all profits from which will be donated to Dove Lewis. MUTTS tells the true tale of the nefarious exploits of J.J., a long-eared, brown-haired, pesky but ultimately lovable mutt that Cate and her husband Henry used to own. J.J.'s adventures include several trips to the veterinarian, including one midnight dash to Dove itself, only to discover that J.J., the great escapologist, was also very skilled at malingering. His story is set against the highly fictionalized account of Cate's five years in America and, specifically, Portland, Oregon, where she and her family still make their home.
Meet Blaze the Trailcat, mascot to the Portland Trailblazers Basketball Team!
12:00 Noon
Meet Tom-a-Hawk, mascot to the Portland Winterhawks Ice Hockey Team!
Meet Jaxon, mascot to the Porland Lumberjacks Lacrosse Team!
1:00 pm
Meet Victor E. Viking, mascot for Portland State University!
2:00 pm
Award Ceremony: Top Cat and Top Dog fundraising teams announced. Who's ahead right now? CLICK HERE to meet the front-runners!
Raffle Drawing begins
3:00 pm
The fun ends until 2009
Are you missing a puppy? 06-02-2008
I have come to realize that lost/stray puppies just love my front door step! I am not sure why, but about once a month I have a stray animal in my house. My dogs are getting sick of it!
My neighbors told me that years ago people would dump their animals that they did not want anymore in our new neighborhood. I can never find the owners and am beginning to think that people are still doing that in the forest next to me. It breaks my heart. I cannot ever imagine doing that to my dogs. They are a part of my family and I love them with all of me. How could I NOT help all the animals I find? I am always the first to stop on the road, no matter how busy it is (Johnson Creek, Clatsop, Sunnyside) all places I have stopped to help an animal.
Friday afternoon I found this adorable pit bull outside of my house and have tried to find its owners, but no luck. I have called every shelter possible, posted ads, and driven around with him in my car for hours trying to find the poor dogs home. Someone is truly missing him. He is a brindle pit with white patches on his tummy and one on the back of his neck. He is neutered and truly the best little dog! He sits. He is a lover. He gets along great with other dogs and people.
After a long search and heartache, I took him into Multnomah County. It was a huge mistake having me take him in and not my husband. It was the hardest thing I have had to do in a very long time. He was crying..I was crying...and I didn't even get a chance to tell him good-bye, they just took him. I felt so bad. They told me that he gets 3 days for owners to contact (so far no one has, I checked this morning) then he goes under behavior tests (which he will pass with flying colors!) At that point they put him on the adoption list and hope for someone to take him in. I am going to keep checking in, I refuse to let this poor pup be put down-he is too sweet. Once I dropped him off and handed over the leash it was $120 for me to get him back! Can you believe that? I so badly want to find his owners or someone who will love him. I think he is about 2-3 years old. All he wants is a little love and attention.
We have included some great documents for buyers and sellers as well as a very in depth property search to fit all of your wants and needs when looking for a new home. Try our Map Search tool to view homes in your price range in their actual neighborhoods! Sign up to receive automatic e-mails when a New Home is listed that fits your search criteria. Take a look at the Non-Profit OrganizationsVitality Home Realty has partnered with, on their dedicated pages. Have any questions? Please feel free to contact Vitality at anytime.
I appreciate everyones support, kind words, motivation, excitement and commitment over the months.
Here is to a FANTASTIC new website! To a philanthropic and motivated Brokerage, pioneering an approach of giving back on their clients behalf.
Cheers!
Down for the count.... 05-05-2008
Hi Everyone,
It has been a long time and I am very excited to get back on here and start blogging. Things have been busy and a bit crazy recently. My website was supposed to go live this past weekend, but due to myself (if you read below) you will understand why that has not happened. It should be up and running within the week and I couldn't be MORE excited!! :-)
It's Good to be busy and I feel very pleased and excited to have gotten Vitality off on such a great start and I know that there is only more wonderful things to come for this company.
It has been Crazy because I had to get rushed to the ER last week to have an appendectomy. Yep, they had to take out my appendix! It was a very painful, scary... but also a heartwarming experience. I had so many of my close family and friends come visit at the Hospital over the course of three days, that it truly made me realize how blessed and fortunate I am to have them all in my life. They sat with me while I was in pain and made me laugh. They brought me flowers. They brought me cute stuffed animals and cards. My husband was the hero of them all....he has been beyond fabulous and was there for me every step of the way, no matter what I needed. He is still doing a great job taking care of me. My dogs have been SO cute and concerned the entire time, even they were worried about me!
I got to know the nurses quite well and was very lucky to have such kind people watching over me. They too got to know me well, telling me that I am the most inquisitive woman they have ever had. I was always so concerned with what they were putting in my IV, in my body, what they were taking blood for. I felt like it was my duty to make sure I could educate myself the best way possible, by asking questions! Even my surgeon was amazing! He checked on me three times daily and called me at home. He had the perfect mixture of Professionalism, Personality and sarcasm mixed together!
I have never had to go to the Hospital before, let alone had surgery, so I was very scared and emotional before it all happened. I had the support of my family all through the night and they were there when I woke up from it all and tell me I was giving high fives, hand shakes and thanking everyone up and down. (I of course do not remember that part.) It is good to know you are in safe hands, and I truly was the entire time.
I was a bit skeptical about Kaiser since I had Doctors that I was in love with in the past at other locations, but they truly stepped up to the plate and made me feel at ease and at home the entire time. My mom likes to tell people about when I left the Hospital, because all the nurses came out from the rooms as I was being rolled down the hallway to give me hugs and kisses. So, we of course gave them some of my flowers because they were so wonderful! I had a fabulous room-ate who I am keeping in my prayers and plan to go back and visit as soon as I can stand for more than five minutes without being in pain.
When it was all said and done...it ended up the way it should. I am home, safe, healthy and feel tremendously blessed!
Now...back to work with appointments every day this week! I have a lot to catch up on! ;-)
Thank you to everyone for your love and support. :-) HAPPY CINCO DE MAYO!
No Excuses....I know! 04-15-2008
To all of my loyal readers, friends and family, I have been SWAMPED lately and really trying hard to finalize all of my content for my FABULOUS website! I know that is no excuse and trust me, I have felt very guilty the last few weeks for not updating my blog on a regular basis. My Vitality Home Realtywebsite should be done within the next few weeks and I couldn't be happier with the product so far, and feel blessed to have come across theHoldridge team.
Holdridge Technologiesis the Creative Team in Portland, Oregon and who also do many sites in California. I have chosen to use them to build my Website and I am SO happy to be working together. They are a group of wonderful individuals who have truly put my needs and concerns (which is a lot, trust me) into perspective and have taken it all very seriously. I am very excited to see the final product and know that it will be nothing short of Perfect! They are a group of individuals who know what they are doing and are so sincere and professional. I look forward to having a great friendship with them when we are done building the website. Keep watching over the next few weeks for www.vitalityhomerealty.com. :-)
Other than website stuff, Vitality has truly been taking off! I have been contacted by a few papers wanting to write a story about the Concept and Vision of Vitality, which is VERY exciting! As soon as my site is up we will be getting together to create those stories. Keep your eyes peeled, Vitality is definitley on its way and I am so proud.
If you should have any questions about Vitality, please do not hesitate to ask! Soon I will be able to direct everyone to my new and fabulous website!!!
Have a great week. I will be back soon...I promise! :-)
A Great Day on Idol Gives Back! 04-09-2008
This is such a moving show tonight on American Idol. Last year they raised 75 Million Dollars for children in Africa. Thanks to so many generous donations, they were able to save hundreds of innocent, human lives. They also donated time and visited thousands of homeless, starving children, many without parents. It gave these children hope, a light at the end of the tunnel. This year, Vitality is proud to donate $100 to Idol Gives Back. I know it is not much, but I am hoping to have a few big contributors match that amount in the next few hours. Anything you can give, will help. Below you can see what your donation will get someone in need.
If you want to get involved, let me know and I can definitely help you give back. It is a great feeling to help others that truly do not have anything.
I have posted some information and videos below. Take a moment to read and watch so that you can see for your own eyes, what tonights show is all about. It is a Beautiful thing. :-)
On Wednesday April 9th, starting at 7:30/6:30c, FOX, AMERICAN IDOLand the Idol Gives Back Foundation present a second installment of the popular TV event to help children and young people in extreme poverty here at home in the U.S. and around the world.
How you can support Idol Gives Back 2008
IDOL GIVES BACK, the historic Emmy Award-winning television event and music celebration airing Wednesday, April 9 (7:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX, will raise awareness and funds to benefit six charities. including: the Children's Defense Fund, The Global Fund, Make It Right, Malaria No More, Save The Children, U.S. Programs and the Children's Health Fund.
This year's event, beginning at a special 7:30 PM start time, will be bigger and more ambitious than ever. Robin Williams, Celine Dion, Forest Whitaker, Billy Crystal, Dane Cook, Kiefer Sutherland, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale, Jennifer Connolly, Elliott Yamin, Fantasia and Amy Adams join previously announced international talent and sports figures Bono, Brad Pitt, Reese Witherspoon, Miley Cyrus, Mariah Carey, Eli Manning, Peyton Manning, Fergie, Chris Daughtry, Carrie Underwood, Annie Lennox, John Legend, Snoop Dogg, Maroon 5, Heart and Gloria Estefan.
During the show, viewers will be able to make donations via toll-free lines and the Internet.
Are you an Empty Nester? 04-08-2008
Wow, another great addition to brag about for Portland, Oregon! Yet ANOTHER reason (as if you need one) to live in the Beautiful Northwest. Forbes Magazine just voted Portland, Oregon the 6th best place to live, for Empty Nesters.
What is an Empty Nester, you ask? An empty Nester is a man, woman, or any couple who has gotten rid of their children, FINALLY! No, I am just playing around. It is a person whose children have grown up and left home, leaving their parent(s) alone, allowing them to down-size most of the time and save money on their house payments and to simply just downsize since they will not be needing as much living space.
It is very common for parents to sell and buy a new home after their kids are grown and gone. I am still trying to talk some sense into my own parents about the size of their home. It is way too big for the two of them and my little sister. I think it is more of a sentimental issue since they have lived in that home for 25 years, it is always hard to let go. That house is the only home I had known until I purchased my own nearly four years ago.
Click HERE to read more about another fabulous ranking for Portland! Congratulations Portland, Oregon! If you know anyone who may be an "Empty Nester"and in need of a downsize, please give them my contact information.
I love Referrals and am proud to say that 90% of my business comes from clients who enjoyed working with me and who I am proud to now call good friends. I give FUN Referral Thank You gifts! :-)
HUGE PRICE REDUCTION! Highly Desired One Level Living in Central Gresham Location! 04-07-2008
SOLD! SOLD! SOLD! 04-01-2008
I am VERY happy to announce that the VERY FIRST LISTING with my new company, VITALITY HOME REALTY, has been SOLD!
ONLY 35 DAYS in RMLS. NO lock Box. A sign in the yard for 25 Days... received NOT ONE but TWO offers on Pennywood this weekend.
I have been in the industry for a while. I have seen HUNDREDS of Offers but I have not seen one this strong in a VERY long time! How refreshing and rewarding for my seller and her family!
I am so excited that with ALL the inventory on the market, all the competition we had on the same street, (inventory that has been sitting for months with multiple price drops and us with NONE)...we have successfully attracted a fantastic buyer for this home. Not only that, but I am honored to be working with a couple who has been in the Real Estate industry for 30+ years! Joyce and James Morrelliof Windermere sold my Grandparents from Iran & my parents their very first home, that they still live in, today. It is a very, very small world out there!
I have picked up some fabulous buyers with this listing and look forward to working with them all over the next few months. I am proud that this was Vitality's FIRST Listing to sell! The owner is a dear friend of our family and is just thrilled about it all. NO ONE was expecting it to happen this fast and then to not only be able to present one, but TWO offers all at once, was just simply amazing!
If you know anyone wanting to sell their home, please pass on this great information and help motivate them in todays tougher market.
It will be fun helping her make a decision about which of the threeLocal Foundationsshe should donate to. Roughly $300 will get donated from my earnings, in her name. Very cool!
You've gotta' have a little faith...that is what it all boils down to! :-)
Cheers!
My Baby Sister-in-Law! 03-31-2008
I am very proud and excited about this great article that Art4orm submitted acknowledging my newly inherited Sister-In-Law, Heather Williams. She graduated in June from The University of Oregon and very shortly afterwards was hired on at Art4orm. (Let's just say a combination of her personal attributes, work ethic, and marketing awards combined with a fantastic sister-in-law) landed her a great job at a fabulous Marketing Agency in Portland, Oregon.
Art4orm is a High Energy, Personable and Reliable Marketing & Advertising Agency that has helped me create the new identity for my company, Vitality Home Realty. (Website coming in less than one month!) Kevin & Team created my logo, signs and business cards that got me off to a great start! Kevin York, owner of Art4orm, is a dear friend of mine who I have grown to know quite well over the years, (meeting during my last job with Marnella Homes & Communities.) He does all of the Volare' marketing including the creation of one of the most interactive kiosks you will ever step foot inside! He also helped us with our Marketing and Design for Matthew Frank Condominiums in St. Johns a few years back, which we sold out of 111 in less than one year!
I guarantee he will go above and beyond your expectations for anything you may be in need of. Give him a call and tell him "Par" sent you his way!
For more information and one of the coolest websites out there, visit: www.art4orm.com (Make sure to turn your volume up and watch the entire Introduction!) Belows is the article about Heather that I believe will be in the Portland Business Journal, soon.Congratulations Sis! ;-)
03/19/2008 - Art4orm Promotes Heather Williams to Account Manager
PORTLAND, Ore. –Art4orm, a Portland based strategic design and visual communications agency, has announced the promotion of Heather Williams to account manager. Previously, Williams served as the office administrator. In her new role with the agency, Williams will manage and oversee many of the firm’s top accounts including the nation’s largest central vacuum dealer, Gary’s VACUFLO and The New Phoenix and Last Frontier Casinos. “Heather has done an outstanding job for us and in just 9 months has earned this promotion,” said Kevin York, principal and creative director of Art4orm. Williams is a 2007 graduate of the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism with a degree in advertising. About Art4orm: Art4orm is a Portland based strategic design and visual communications agency. Art4orm is a proud three-time winner of the Home Builders Association of Metro Portland’s “Builder Excellence Award” for outstanding website design, marketing and design center development. She may kill me for putting this picture up...but I couldn't resist! :-) Love you!
Can you name all of these Portland Places? 03-27-2008
Today was such a typical "Oregon" day. First we wake up to SNOW. Then it starts to RAIN. Slowly the rain goes away and becomes HAIL!? After the hail the SUN decided to come out and shine down on us for the rest of the afternoon. How weird of a weather day was it? I found it quite quirky!
I was googling some images of Portland for my soon to be completewebsite and decided it might be fun to put your Portland knowledge to the test! Below you will find a lot of pictures, can you name where those landmarks are or where the picture was taken? Leave your answers on the bottom and we will see who knows the most about Beautiful Portland, Oregon.
It might be cold and wet weather right now, but after looking through all of these pictures we truly are blessed to live in such an amazing state. Truly, we have it all in Oregon! :-)
Check out this KILLER OPPORTUNITY! 03-25-2008
My good friend Josh Svaren with Taylor Group Realty called me last night to inform me about a new listing that is a fantastic investment opportunity for anyone who likes to make money investing in Real Estate & Rentals. (who doesn't?)
Situated on almost an acre is this investors dream. FIVE dwelling units on one property, INCLUDING AN ADDITIONAL HOME OF OVER 3000 sq. ft. for YOU to live in and watch over your tenants! You can even rent out parts of your own home to your friends and make more $$$. Heck, you don't even have to live there, you could rent that home out as well to five or six college students since it is so close to downtown!
The current owner makes $3,000+ a month alone, just from renting out her other five units on the property. Some of them are one bedrooms and the others are two. The 3000sq.ft.+ home has SIX bedrooms and two bathrooms.
There have been new roofs added to all structures within the last few years. Some updates but also room for you to fix up a few things before selling again, if you are a handyman. This is an opportunity that only comes along once in a while. Take advantage of it while you can. A little birdie also informed me that the price will be dropping from $599,000 to $529,000 this week with some wiggle room left within that price as well.
If you would like to take a look at the property contact me asap and we can schedule a time within the next 24 hours to view. They are ALL occupied with tenants, some have been there for 12+ years! Please pass along the fabulous buy to anyone who has a love for Real Estate or even someone wanting to get into investing, because this is one deal you WON'T want to pass up!
Call or e-mail me today @ 503-260-1003 or Parvaneh@vitalityhomerealty.com for more information
Million Dollar Club 03-24-2008
I know it is just a "status" but I am proud to say that I am a member of the Million Dollar Club.I achieved the highest standard possible last year, as Diamond-Platinum Member. Pretty exciting!
Below is the link that will take you to my page. :-)
Please don't forget about Vitality if you have friends or family moving to or away from Portland, Oregon, I would love the opportunity to work with them as well as with any of my readers. I am very competitive with every listing, offering only discounted fees.
With each sale, my clients are contributing to our community with a portion of my earnings at no additional expense, hoping to change the life of another human or animal. No other Real Estate Company has the same value and concept as Vitality.
We here at Vitality Home Realty make it our mission to provide our clients with the highest standards of service when it comes to finding a place to call “home”. We are a passionate, energetic, and innovative new brokerage based in Portland, Oregon, pioneering a new trend of giving back. Directed at those who have an interest in their community and the value of philanthropy, we donate a portion of our commission to local charities on our client’s behalf, at no extra expense! We take pride in our unique concept and strive to make compassion, accountability, and social awareness the foundation of our company.
Happy Easter! 03-23-2008
I hope that you all have a fabulous Easter. Enjoy your time with your dearest friends and family on this glorious day of celebration.
I am looking forward to spending a wonderful day with both of our families. We are all blessed to have our health, our jobs and our happiness. We always look forward to our family gatherings...most would call them "crazy" but we call it good ol' FUN! Tons of good food, good laughs, good colored eggs, good memories and great people!
Here are a few things about Easter that you may not know, Enjoy!
90 million chocolate Easter bunnies are made for Easter each year.
Each day, five million marshmallow chicks and bunnies are produced in preparation for Easter.
16 billion jelly beans are made for Easter (that�s enough to completely fill an 89 feet high and 60 feet wide plastic Easter egg � about the height of a nine-story office building!)
82 percent of Americans say they would prefer a chocolate or candy bunny for Easter, while only 4 percent say they would prefer a live rabbit (can you blame them?!)
63 percent of Americans would most like to receive a chocolate bunny on Easter morning, followed by marshmallow bunnies (10 percent). I know my little guy would love anything chocolate!
The world�s largest jar of jelly beans weighed 6,050 pounds.
75 percent of kids are willing to do extra chores for extra Easter candy (what, we’re supposed to give them something for doing chores??! ;)).
Each Easter season, Americans buy more than 700 million Marshmallow Peeps, shaped like chicks, as well as Marshmallow Bunnies and Marshmallow Eggs, making them the most popular non-chocolate Easter candy.
The largest chocolate sculpture ever made was a 10 foot high Easter egg constructed in Melbourne, Australia
On average, each person in Britain eats approx. 9kg of chocolate per year (that’s about 3 bars per week).
One of the most expensive eggs on offer in 2006 was the unique Diamond Stella Egg - a chocolate egg laden with diamonds – which came with a £50,000 price tag.
GO DUCKS and Happy Good Friday!:-) 03-21-2008
GO DUCKS! For all Oregon fans, the big game is today at 4:25 Pacific Time. I will be watching at the local Old Chicago as always, cheering on the Mens Basketball Team from Oregon. It is still amazing to me how they wiggled their way into the tournament.
I would like everyone to know that my bracket is first in all of my pools on facebook. If it weren't for USC losing I would have a perfect bracket so far. They really messed that up for a lot of people.
I hope everyone has a fantastic Good Friday and an even better Easter Sunday with their family and loves ones. Eat LOTS of candy! ;-)
Game Preview
Ninth-seeded Oregon of the Pac-10 will take on eighth-seeded Mississippi State of the SEC in an NCAA Tournament first round game on Friday, March 21 at Alltel Arena in North Little Rock, Ark. CBS will televise the game live. | Read More
NCAA Notes
Oregon is making its tenth NCAA Tournament appearance in school history and fifth under current coach Ernie Kent. The Ducks last appeared in the NCAA Tournament in 2007, advancing as a No. 3-seed to the Midwest Regional final - with victories over Miami (Ohio), Winthrop and Nevada - Las Vegas - before falling to eventual national champion Florida.
Barack Obama is in Portland, Oregon on March 21, 2008. 03-20-2008
Obama in Portland on Friday. POSTED BY ERIK HENRIKSEN ON TUE, MAR 18 AT 11:32 PM
So, big news: Barack Obama’s hitting Portland on Friday. It’ll be all arena-rock style, with Obama speaking at the Memorial Coliseum. I think it’s fair to predict this thing’s gonna be huge.
Tickets are free, provided you visit Obama’s website and register. Here’s the complete lowdown, via Obama’s camp.
Senator Barack Obama to Visit Oregon Chicago, IL – The Obama campaign announced today that Senator Obama will visit Oregon on Friday, March 21 and Saturday, March 22.
Senator Obama will hold Stand for Change Rallies in Portland and Eugene. Further details will be announced as they become available.
FRIDAY, MARCH 21
Portland, OR STAND FOR CHANGE RALLY WITH BARACK OBAMA
Memorial Coliseum 500 North Winning Way Portland, OR 97227 Doors Open: 7:30 AM Program Begins: 9:30 AM
This event is free and open to the public, but tickets are required. For your free ticket, please visit http://or.barackobama.com/portland or visit our Portland headquarters:
Obama for America Portland HQ 3016 Division Street Portland, OR 97202 Wednesday 2:00pm to 8:00pm Thursday 10:00am to 8:00pm
On Saturday he’ll hit the University of Oregon in Eugene. More info on that rally here. Here is a complete rundown of the Oregon Schedule for Obama:
FRIDAY, MARCH 21 Portland "Stand for Change" Rally Memorial Coliseum 500 North Winning Way Portland, OR 97227 Doors Open: 7:30 AM Program Begins: 9:30 AM
FRIDAY, MARCH 21 Salem "Stand for Change" Town Hall Salem Armory Auditorium 2320 17th St. Salem, OR 97303 Media Access: 11:00 AM Doors Open: 11:30 AM Program Begins: 1:00 PM
FRIDAY, MARCH 21 "Stand For Change" Rally University of Oregon 1601 University St. Eugene, OR 97403 Doors Open: 7:00 PM Program Begins: 9:00 PM
Today is the Persian New Year.(No-Rooz)To be exact, it happened at 10:48 pm Pacific time. Sadly, my family never really celebrated it because my Father and Mother are from two different countries and with my father moving here without his family at such a young age, he has unfortunately given up some of the great customs he once celebrated when he was a child. I always call him on this day and pretend I know what is going on but he always answers with "what are you talking about, do you mean Aideh Shoma Moabrak!? Oh ya, I guess it is, huh?" Apparently when you don't celebrate it and haven't for the last 30 years you forget when the day is. I say it with the American spin and he says it with the 100% Persian flair! Trust me, my spin on the sad attempt to pronounce the word is nothing without his beautiful accent!
Some of my Persian friends do celebrate & they always do a great job of reminding me! Above is a picture from last years table (This is my favorite Persian family, the Shafiee's) They do such a beautiful job decorating their table for the celebration. (well, their mother does!) I think we will be attending their families giant party to ring in the No-Rooz with them all on Saturday.
Persian New Year is nothing like the good ol' ball drop in Times Square. There are SO many fun customs on this day. It is not only one day like ours, either, the celebration starts weeks before! Below you can read a little bit more about the fun celebration.
Iranians consider No-Rooz as their biggest celebration of the year, before the new year, they start cleaning their houses (Khaane Tekaani), and they buy new clothes. But a major part of New Year rituals is setting the "Haft Seen" with seven specific items. In ancient times each of the items corresponded to one of the seven creations and the seven holy immortals protecting them. Today they are changed and modified but some have kept their symbolism. All the seven items start with the letter "S"; this was not the order in ancient times. These seven things usually are: Seeb (apple), Sabze (green grass), Serke (vinager), Samanoo (a meal made out of wheat), Senjed (a special kind of berry), Sekke (coin), and Seer (garlic). Sometimes instead of Serke they put Somagh (sumak, an Iranian spice). Zoroastrians today do not have the seven "S"s but they have the ritual of growing seven seeds as a reminder that this is the seventh feast of creation, while their sprouting into new growth symbolized resurrection and eternal life to come.
Wheat or lentil representing new growth is grown in a flat dish a few days before the New Year and is called Sabzeh (green shoots). Decorated with colorful ribbons, it is kept until Sizdah beh dar, the 13th day of the New Year, and then disposed outdoors. A few live gold fish (the most easily obtainable animal) are placed in a fish bowl. In the old days they would be returned to the riverbanks, but today most people will keep them. Mirrors are placed on the spread with lit candles as a symbol of fire.
After the Saal Tahvil, people hug and kiss each other and wish each other a happy new year. Then they give presents to each other (traditionally cash, coins or gold coins), usually older ones to the younger ones. The first few days are spent visiting older members of the family, relatives and friends. Children receive presents and sweets, special meals and "Aajil" (a combination of different nuts with raisins and other sweet stuff) or fruits are consumed. Traditionally on the night before the New Year, most Iranians will have Sabzi Polo Mahi, a special dish of rice cooked with fresh herbs and served with smoked and freshly fried fish. Koukou Sabzi, a mixture of fresh herbs with eggs fried or baked, is also served. The next day rice and noodles (Reshteh Polo) is served. Regional variations exist and very colorful feasts are prepared.
The 13th day of the new year is called "Sizdah Bedar" and spent mostly outdoors. People will leave their homes to go to the parks or local plains for a festive picnic. It is a must to spend Sizdah Bedar in nature. This is called Sizdah Bedar and is the most popular day of the holidays among children because they get to play a lot! Also in this day, people throw the Sabze away, they believe Sabze should not stay in the house after "Sizdah Bedar". Iranians regard 13th day as a bad omen and believe that by going into the fields and parks they avoid misfortunes. It is also believed that unwed girls can wish for a husband by going into the fields and tying a knot between green shoots, symbolizing a marital bond.
People set up bon fire, young and old leap over the fires with songs and gestures of merriment like:
(Sorkhi-e to az man) Give me your beautiful red color (Zardi-e man az to) And take back my sickly pallor!
It means: I will give you my yellow color (sign of sickness), and you give me your fiery red color (sign of healthiness). This is a purification rite and 'suri' itself means red and fiery. No-Rooz Greetings: No-Rooz Mobarak (Happy No-Rooz, Happy New Year); Eid-eh Shoma Mobarak (Happy New Year to you); No-Rooz Pirooz (Wishing you a Prosperous New Year); Sad Saal be in Saal-ha (Wishing you 100 more Happy New Years).
After all No-Rooz is a fun time for all of the Iranians, old and young.
Congratulations Alu! 03-18-2008
My good friend and one of my very first clients, Paul Wagner, has opened a fantastic new Wine Bar in Portland, Oregon. I attended the "soft" open with our good friends Luz and Kurt Simmons about a month ago. The wine was great, the food was so unique and fun to try. The place was filled with good friends enjoying themselves. The atmosphere of Alu is indescribable. If you are looking for a mellow yet new and fun place to go on a date, Alu is your place. Two levels of mirrors, couches, antiques, fireplaces, coziness, fun music and not to mention great food and drinks.
I can confidently say that there is no other bar in Portland quite like Alu. When you walk up to the front doors you will know that instantly! I don't want to ruin all the surprises so you will have to check it out for yourself.
Below is an article that was just published in the Portland Tribune about Pauls new bar, Alu. Congratulations my friend, well done!!!
Bar of the Week: Alu Wine Bar & Lounge German treats glow under glam lighting BY LEE WILLIAMS The Portland Tribune, Mar 14, 2008
L.E. BASKOW / TRIBUNE PHOTO Alu’s aluminum-covered exterior gives way to the warmth of classy cocktails and savory, cheesy treats within.
Behind a garagelike silver door and up a few stairs lies a new, narrow lounge nestled over Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. For its small stature, Alu sure packs a lot of taste and style — and enough romance worthy of Danielle Steel’s carnal canon.
Open just a few weeks, Alu (short for the aluminum in the house’s exterior) took a bit of time to fashion. The two-story former residence was spotted by Alu owner Paul Wagner three years ago, and it still has the feel of a home; albeit one perhaps now inhabited by period-movie prince Orlando Bloom or regal Cate Blanchett.
Wait, is that them, just across from you? No, it’s your reflection. Tall mirrors here make you and yours the romantic leads.
The room is ablaze in gold and rich reds, and accented with three styles of chandeliers. Despite the narrowness, there’s a variety of seating, including boxy tables for two to four near the windows and even a plush couch where Nicole Kidman’s courtly “Moulin Rouge!” character would feel comfortable catching a breath.
Alu is state of the art — and state of the heart — boasting an Enomatic pour system for its wines (also found at the wine bar Split at Bridgeport Village). The resealing method prevents oxidization and allows customers tastes from a larger selection than most wine bars.
There are two taps, but Alu offers a deep cross section of European brews by the bottle.
On a recent evening a bartender shook together Maker’s Mark and soda with a cherry, which was removed as he glazed the cocktail over ice. Garnished with a lemon, the refreshing spritzerlike drink was christened “The Southern Gentleman.”
Also like Split, nibbles here have a connection to Noble Rot. Former Noble Rot chef Sandro Di Giovanni crafted some melt-in-your-mouth German-themed appetizers such as the cold-cut plate with smoked pork, and delectable bites of duck.
Käsespätzle, Alu’s mac and cheese, features egg noodles baked with savory onions and Swiss cheese, and makes a crunchy, drip-on-the-chin treat for two.
For all its glamorous feel, Alu feels anything but exclusive or snobby. The vibe is friendly and very inviting. The shimmering, tasteful details just prove someone has infused Alu with a whole lot of love.
It’s as if the lounge itself is out to seduce you.
— Lee Williams
2831 N.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 503-258-9463, alupdx.com, 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tuesday-Saturday
