By Cristen Lincoln, April 12, 2018
Hope lies in dreams, in imagination, and in the courage of those who dare to make dreams into reality. ~ Author and scientist Jonas Salk
What started as the smallest spark of an idea, turned into a bold dream, and Diana and Gary went after it with such faith, and determination, that I’m writing this now to tell you they own the house of a lifetime. When an unhappy tenant wanted out of her lease, it was actually a relief. It’s hard to keep someone happy who is just in the wrong house. It wasn’t the first time, and the idea of how to leverage that house in a different way started to form. We talked about doing a trade to a possible vacation house, and it seemed like a fun idea. They love skiing, and spend most winter weekends up at the mountain. Why not have a vacation rental and space for themselves too? After looking casually online out of curiosity, Diana found a gem. I’m not even sure how to describe how special it is. The past owners are artists, and had poured their heart into building a mountain house with soul, and more impressively landscaping the almost 2 acres in a blend of espalier, zen garden, woodland, wild flowers and lavender fields with incredible hardscape and irrigation everywhere. Before we even had a price or plan in place for their rental, Diana sent me a link to the house. “THIS!” She said. And so it began. We fixed up the rental, staged it, and got 3 offers. Over a week in, it fell apart and we had to sell it again. We attacked it and found a new buyer quickly, then wrote the offer for the mountain house. It actually wasn’t even on the market at that point. The sellers had decided to take it off and perhaps change direction. We had to talk them into still selling it, and not only was it off market now, the price needed to be addressed. Long story short; Diana and Gary found the house they wanted, then, through reverse engineering, hard work, faith, and many stressful moments and weeks of waiting, made it happen. They sold their house for over the asking price. Then we got them the house of their dreams when it wasn’t even on the market, for under the asking price. The timing all worked perfectly, but not without some serious hustle on everyone’s part. I’m so very honored to have been able to help them manifest this dream!
Cristen Lincoln
Earth Advantage Broker & Business Development
I’ve been a full time realtor since 1993, and after almost 24 years in the business and thousands of transactions under my belt, I still love it!
At Living Room Realty I facilitate individual agents' business development, am a member of the Broker Advisory Group which provides direction for the company, and lead a Roommates group which allows agents to share ideas for improving their business practices. I feel very fortunate to come to work every day and do what I love. I grew up here in SE Portland, attended our neighborhood schools and live just five minutes from my childhood home. I never even thought about moving away. I love to travel, but Portland is my home.
When I’m not working, I enjoy volunteering at my kids’ schools. I’m known for throwing an epic class party! Before I had kids, I never knew I’d also enjoy being a “soccer Mom” as much as I do. When I have a free moment, I love to hop on my bike and ride down to the waterfront from Mt. Tabor where I live. Biking through the neighborhoods is a nice way to stay in touch with the city, and also stay in shape! When I feel like I want more of a challenge, I’ll add the climb up Mt. Tabor. It’s good ride with the reward being the view from the top of the park.
Besides Portland, my family’s second home in Central Oregon is my favorite place. We escape there every chance we get, and love to explore the endless hiking trails, lakes, rivers and other natural wonders the high desert has to offer. Snowboarding on Bachelor is at the top of our winter activities list. We just love nature. Our two dogs love it too, and we take them almost everywhere with us!
I’m an avid gardener. Meandering through Portland Nursery, even if I don’t buy anything, almost feels like a mini vacation. My Mom taught me a lot about tending a garden, but I also might have gotten my interest in gardening from my ancestors who were among the first settlers of Sauvie Island. My maiden name is Charlton, and a few of us still live and work there. There’s even a road named after my family. The kids think that’s pretty cool.
My family has deep roots in Portland. I’m a true Oregon native, local SE girl, Mom and business woman. And, I’m passionate about working in the city and neighborhoods that I love.
ADDITIONAL AWARDS & AFFILIATIONS
• Broker★Agent™ Advisor 'Cer
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- T: 503-260-2414
- cristen@livingroomre.com
