We here in the Pacific NW have been doing much better than the rest of the country in the recent real estate market. We have appreciated 3% or more in the last year, and though market time has increased for sellers, prices have been steady. Some unique factors can be attributed to this pocket of stability in the unstable market.

First of all, Portland, the largest city in Oregon, has a very effective "Urban Growth Boundary" which does wonders for the market. It limits development, which makes existing homes more valuable. It makes the city more livable with abundant greenspace that attracts folks here in the first place.
Measure 49, which is on the ballot now, looks to replace measure 37 as the new law of the land regarding development of precious farmland and other privately owned land. Noone can be sure if it will pass, but polls show that voters in Oregon are in favor. Either way, Oregonians refuse to allow urban sprawl and strip malls to dominate the landscape the way they do in other states, making this a great place to live.

Oregon has had significant population growth in the past decade or so, and the trend continues. Companies such as Intel, Nike, and Columbia Sportswear among others are well established in Oregon, and bring people to the area from around the country with good jobs who then can afford homes. Population is expected to double in the next decade or two, and this inmigration keeps the economy robust. People in California think that are prices are low in comparison, making Oregon a good investment opportunity for them and others.

I could go on all day about the benefits of Oregon property. Sure we have had a change in the market from the last few years, but we are still faring better than most. Foreclosures are actually down from five years ago, though market time has increased. Of course things change daily, but home ownership is still the cornerstone of the American dream, and investment in real property should be 30% of ones investment portfolio, not including their primary residence, according to many investment advisors . I see no greater opportunity in the country for Real Estate than the great state of Oregon.