Renovation Concepts

Calendar of Events for Art & Furniture festivals in the Portland & surrounding area

admin — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 20:13:33 +0000

Summer is always a great time in the Portland area for many interesting furniture & art shows, festivals and Home Tours.

Here are some great events to mark on your calendars:

1. August 21-29th- Green Arts Collective Fair- 77282 Hwy 53- Nehalem, OR. 10am-4pm. For more information contact Kathleen Ryan (503) 368-5584.

2. August 21 & 22nd- 10th Annual Silverton Fine Arts Festivals- Coolidge St. Silverton, OR. 10 am-7 pm- Admission- Free www.silvertonarts.org

3. August 28th & 30th- Annual Dahlia Festival- Swan Island Dahlias 995 NW 22nd Ave, Canby, OR. Admission- Free- www.dahlias.com

4. September 4th & 5th- Art in the Pearl- North Park blocks- www.ArtInThePearl.com- Admission-Free

5. July 31 to August 29th: Street of Dreams- Cresap Summit- NW Portland.

11am- 9 pm- Admission $12-14 for Adults. www.streetofdreams.com

Enjoy!

For more information on great design & building professionals please visit www.RenovationConcepts.net

New Continuing Real Estate Requirements for Current Oregon Real Estate Brokers

admin — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:39:45 +0000

The Oregon Real Estate Agency has made some significant changes regarding continuing education. Here is a list of some of the new Continuing Real Estate Requirements for Current Oregon Real Estate Brokers starting January 1, 2011.

What many people might not know is that Real Estate Brokers are required to complete 30 hours of Continuing Education every two years to maintain their licenses.

Here are some of the new changes from the Real Estate Agency which are effective January 1, 2011.

1. All continuing education must be taken from a Certified Continuing Education provider to meet license renewal requirements

2. All licensees must complete a specific 3 hour board approved Law & Rule required course from a Certified Education provider

3. Brokerage Administration and Sales Supervision courses must be approved by the Agency.

4. Certified Continuing Education providers must meet requirements for keeping records, developing learning objectives and ensuring instructor qualifications.

5. Applicants for a principal broker license must take and pass a principal broker license exam in addition to other licensing requirements.

For more information visit http://www.rea.state.or.us/

For information on Real Estate in the Portland area please contact LaDonna Miller-Broker Oregon First Real Estate at ladonnamiller@earthlink.net or (503) 310-9076.

The A Cut Above Exteriors Party

admin — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 06:10:41 +0000

Joan Mullen Woods/ Denise Popiel & Susan Walter

Jeremy Kushner of Rail Pro and Laura Hertner of Lisac's Fireplace

The Reach Community Development Team

Mark Tiffee- President of A Cut Above Exteriors and members of his staff, Beckie Blakey, Laura Dayton, Jackie Watson, Cherish Berry and Clark Zeller hosted a wonderful Renovation Concepts party at their outdoor showroom on NW Cornell Ave. Guests enjoyed a wonderful summer evening and mingled on the out-door deck.

A Cut Above Exteriors is the exclusive Renewal by Andersen showroom in the Portland area. The showroom is beautiful and provides visitors with a really extensive selection of products. Mark Tiffee has assembled a great team to assist homeowners with their Window replacement projects. Renewal by Andersen is a Green Seal Certified window replacement option.

For more information please contact Mark Tiffee at A Cut Above Exteriors or visit www.ACutAboveExteriors.com.

A Cut Above Exteriors hosted a great Renovation Concepts Party

admin — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 05:56:25 +0000

The A Cut Above Exteriors Team

Laura Hertner/ Lisac's & Laura Dayton- A Cut Above Exteriors

For more information please contact Mark Tiffee at A Cut Above Exteriors or visit www.ACutAboveExteriors.com.

: Joan Mullen Woods/Beckie Blakey/Laura Hertner

Passive Solar Design by Solar Oregon

admin — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 21:29:44 +0000

Join us for an Interactive Workshop on “Passive Solar Design”

What: Goal Net Zero Interest Group Workshop

When: July 21, 2010 from 6:30 – 8:00pm

Where: Basement Lecture Room – Heritage Building, 3934 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland, OR 97214 (please use entrance one block east on Grand Ave).

Interested in homes that produce as much energy as they use on an annual basis? Join Solar Oregon’s experts in a series of talks about design and construction of net zero homes.

This workshop will concentrate on passive solar design and cover some of the differences and overlaps with Passive House concepts. Presenter Kathryn Gray is an urban planner, designer, owner of UrbanSun passive solar home design, and net zero homeowner. She has received Portland Office of Sustainable Development’s Build It Green grants for cutting edge technology projects, designed the first convective loop solar storage systems in Oregon and has years of experience designing passive solar systems throughout the Northwest.

These workshops are meant to be interactive with plenty of time for your questions.

This looks like a great workshop to attend. For more information, please contact Solar Oregon to register.

For more information on Energy Efficiency- please contact LaDonna Miller- Regarding the Renovation Concepts Energy Efficiency team. Meet with these contractors to learn how to make your home more energy efficient and lower utility bills.

For more information- please contact LaDonna Miller at (503) 310-9076.

Creating A Not So Big Inspired Home

admin — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 18:52:23 +0000

Michael Klement of Architectural Resource will be hosting the following class called Creating a Not So Big Inspired Home: Right Sizing the American Dream at Whole Foods Market- 3535 Northeast 15th Avenue on July 15th and then at the ReBuilding Center 3625 North Mississippi Avenue on July 16th.

Creating a Not So Big® Inspired Home: Right Sizing the American Dream “A great instructor and very interesting speaker who loves this subject.” “Excellent course.

Michael’s knowledge and presentation was great!” Course Description There is a paradigm shift taking place in how people understand “home” and what can be done to make the most of their living spaces.

2008 was the first year on record when U.S. house sizes actually stopped growing. This shift is indicative of a trend toward greener and more economical living.

Learn how to achieve beauty, efficiency, and conservation of energy and resources in a smaller space. Focus on learning ways to create the maximum amount of value in the minimum amount of space whether remodeling, adding on, or building a new home. Examine 10 different key design strategies for creating a successful not-so-big inspired living space.

JULY 15

Whole Foods Market
3535 Northeast 15th Avenue
Portland, OR 97212

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
3:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

JULY 16

Rebuilding Center
3625 North Mississippi Avenue
Portland, OR 97227-1156

11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ONLY $20

2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. ONLY $30

For more information please visit: www.renovationconcepts.net/building-and-remodeling-services/architecture-interior-design/ or www. ArchitecturalResource.com

Sofa Table Chair offers 15% off of all Special order upholstered furniture

admin — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 12:10:48 +0000

IN HONOR OF INDEPENDENCE DAY, SOFA TABLE CHAIR IS OFFERING THE FOLLOWING SAVINGS THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE MONTH OF JULY!!

15% OFF ALL SPECIAL ORDER UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE……SOFAS, CHAIRS, OTTOMANS, SECTIONALS, CHAISES, LOVESEATS……….

There are many of you who have been waiting until just such savings would come along, remember, our turnaround time is only three to six weeks, and on a $995 sofa (for example), you would save $149.25. Pretty Exciting!!

Also, we’d like to remind you that it is our annual sidewalk sale month:

JULY 16TH, 17TH, 18TH ON NE BROADWAY
JULY 30TH, 31ST AT WEST LINN CENTRAL VILLAGE

During those sidewalk sale times, there will also be further savings inside our stores on each and every furniture and accessory item!! Now’s your chance to plot and plan to snag the piece you’ve been drooling over!!

See all of you in July!

Susan, Kendra, Shenell, Violet

P.S. We will be closed on the 4th of July!

–

Sofa Table Chair, Inc.

1916 NE Broadway Street
Portland, OR 97232
Phone (503)231-2782
Fax (503)231-2785

5656 Hood Street, Suite 109
West Linn, Oregon 97068
Phone (503)557-0420
Fax (503)557-0421

For more information please visit: www.SofaTableChair.com or contact Susan Walter- Owner of Sofa Table Chair (503) 231-2782.

New laws for smoke dectors for multi family housing in Oregon

admin — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 16:00:49 +0000

This is great information from the Office of State Fire Marshal regarding new laws and rules regarding Fire Alarms in homes.

A home inspector that I have worked with extensively over the past 6 years forwarded this information.

_____________________________

Oregon Bulletin

May 1, 2010

Department of Oregon State Police,

Office of State Fire Marshal

Chapter 837

Rule Caption:

Create new provisions for carbon monoxide alarms and detectors as directed by House Bill 3540, 2009 Legislative Assembly.Adm. Order No.:

OSFM 3-2010(Temp)Filed with Sec. of State:

4-8-2010Certified to be Effective:

7-1-10 thru 12-28-10Notice Publication Date:

Rules Adopted:

837-047-0100, 837-047-0110, 837-047-0120, 837-047-0130, 837-047-0140, 837-047-0150, 837-047-0160, 837-047-0170Subject:

monoxide alarms and detectors in one and two family dwellings, manufactured dwellings, and multifamily housing.

The purpose of these rules is to establish minimum standards for the design, inspection, testing, placement and location and maintenance of carbonRules Coordinator:

Pat Carroll—(503) 934-8276837-047-0100

Purpose and Scope

The purpose of these rules is to establish minimum standards for the design, inspection, testing, placement and location and maintenance of carbon monoxide alarms in

one and two family dwellings, manufactured dwellings, and multifamily housing.

Stat. Auth.: ORS 476.725

Stats. Implemented: ORS 476.725

Hist.: OSFM 3-2010(Temp), f. 4-8-10, cert. ef. 7-1-10 thru 12-28-10

837-047-0110

Definitions

“Attached garage” means a garage with a door, ductwork, or ventilation shaft communicating directly with a living space and does not include:

(1) A carport;

(2) An open parking garage; or

(3) An enclosed parking garage ventilated in accordance with Section 404 of the State Mechanical Code.

(4) “Bedroom” means a room designed or intended for sleeping.

(5) “Carbon monoxide alarm” means a device that:

(a) Detects carbon monoxide;

(b) Produces a distinctive audible alert when carbon monoxide is detected;

(c) Is listed by Underwriters Laboratories as complying with ANSI/UL 2034 or 2075 or any other nationally recognized testing laboratory or an equivalent organization;

and

(6) Operates as a distinct unit, as two or more single station units wired to operate in conjunction with each other or as part of a system that includes carbon monoxide

detectors.

(7) For the purposes of these rules, “carbon monoxide detectors that are part of a system that produces a distinctive audible alert and are listed as complying with

ANSI/UL 2075 shall be considered carbon monoxide alarms.

(8) “Carbon monoxide source” means:

(a) A heater, fireplace, furnace, appliance or cooking source that uses coal, wood, petroleum products, and other fuels that emit carbon monoxide as a by-product of

combustion. Petroleum products include, but are not limited to, kerosene, natural gas, or propane.

(b) An attached garage with a door, ductwork, or ventilation shaft that communicates directly with a living space.

(9) “Landlord” means the owner, lessor, or sublessor of the rental dwelling unit or the building or premises of which it is a part. “Landlord” includes but is not limited

to a person who is authorized by the owner, lessor, or subleasor to manage the premises or to enter into a rental agreement.

(10) “Manufactured Dwelling” means a dwelling as defined in ORS 446.

(11) “Multifamily housing” means a building, excluding townhouses, in which three or more residential dwelling units each have space for eating, living, sleeping, and

permanent provisions for cooking and sanitation.

(12) “Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory” means a nationally recognized testing laboratory (NRTL) that is U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration

(OSHA) accredited to test and certify to American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards.

(13) “One and two family dwelling” means a residential building that is regulated under the state building code as a one and two family dwelling and includes a

townhouse.

(14) “Owner” includes a duly authorized agent or attorney, a purchaser, devisee, fiduciary, lessor or sublessor and/or a person having a vested or contingent interest in

the property in question.

(15) “Person” means one or more individuals, legal representatives, partnerships, joint ventures, associations, corporations (whether or not organized for profit),

business trusts, or any organized group of persons and includes the state, state agencies, counties, municipal corporations, school districts, and other public corporations or

subdivisions.

(16) “State Fire Marshal” means the State Fire Marshal appointed under ORS 476.020 and the Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal and Deputy State Fire Marshals

appointed by the State Fire Marshal under ORS 476.040.

(17) “Townhouse” means a single-family dwelling unit constructed in a group of three or more attached units in which each extends from the foundation to the roof and

at least two sides abut open space.

Stat. Auth.: ORS 476.725

Stats. Implemented: ORS 476.725

Hist.: OSFM 3-2010(Temp), f. 4-8-10, cert. ef. 7-1-10 thru 12-28-10

Department of Oregon State Police, Office of State Fire Marshal – May Bulletin Page 1 of 3

http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/rules/0510_Bulletin/0510_ch837_bulletin.html 7/1/2010

837-047-0120

Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements

Properly functioning carbon monoxide alarms shall be required when:

(1) A person conveys fee title to a one and two family dwelling or multifamily housing containing a carbon monoxide source on or after April 1, 2011; or

(2) A person transfers possession under a land sale contract of a one and two family dwelling or multifamily housing containing a carbon monoxide source on or after

April 1, 2011; or

(3) A person transfers ownership of a manufactured dwelling containing a carbon monoxide source on or after April 1, 2011; or

(4) A landlord enters into a rental agreement for a dwelling unit subject to these rules on or after July 1, 2010.

(2) By April 1, 2011, every rental dwelling unit subject to these rules must contain properly functioning carbon monoxide alarms.

Stat. Auth.: ORS 476.725

Stats. Implemented: ORS 476.725

Hist.: OSFM 3-2010(Temp), f. 4-8-10, cert. ef. 7-1-10 thru 12-28-10

837-047-0130

Installation and Location of Carbon Monoxide Alarms and Detectors

(1) All carbon monoxide alarms or detectors must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended instructions and located in accordance with these

rules and applicable building code at the time of construction or alteration of the dwelling.

(2) One and Two Family Dwellings and Manufactured Dwellings: A properly functioning carbon monoxide alarm must be located within each bedroom or within 15

feet outside of each bedroom door. Bedrooms on separate floors in a structure containing two or more stories require separate carbon monoxide alarms.

(3) Multi Family Housing: A properly functioning carbon monoxide alarm must be located within each bedroom or within 15 feet outside of each bedroom door.

Bedrooms on separate floors in a structure containing two or more stories require separate carbon monoxide alarms. A carbon monoxide alarm must also be installed in any

enclosed common area within the building if the common area is connected by a door, ductwork, or ventilation shaft to:

(a) A room containing a carbon monoxide source; and

(b) A dwelling unit.

(4) EXEMPTIONS:

(a) A carbon monoxide alarm is not required in a dwelling unit if:

(A) The dwelling unit does not contain a carbon monoxide source; and

(B) The dwelling unit is not connected by a door, ductwork, or ventilation shaft to a room containing a carbon monoxide source.

(b) A landlord who rents a space for a manufactured dwelling or who rents moorage space for a floating home as defined in ORS 830.700, but does not rent the

manufactured dwelling home or floating home is exempt from these rules.

Stat. Auth.: ORS 476.725

Stats. Implemented: ORS 476.725

Hist.: OSFM 3-2010(Temp), f. 4-8-10, cert. ef. 7-1-10 thru 12-28-10

837-047-0140

Power Source

Carbon monoxide alarms must be battery operated or receive their primary power source from the building wiring.

Stat. Auth.: ORS 476.725

Stats. Implemented: ORS 476.725

Hist.: OSFM 3-2010(Temp), f. 4-8-10, cert. ef. 7-1-10 thru 12-28-10

837-047-0150

Testing and Maintenance of Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Carbon monoxide alarms and systems must be maintained and tested according to the manufacturer’s recommended instructions.

Stat. Auth.: ORS 476.725

Stats. Implemented: ORS 476.725

Hist.: OSFM 3-2010(Temp), f. 4-8-10, cert. ef. 7-1-10 thru 12-28-10

837-047-0160

Rental Dwelling Units Subject to ORS Chapter 90

(1) Effective July 1, 2010, before a landlord transfers possession of a dwelling unit subject to these rules to a tenant, the landlord must:

(a) Install a properly functioning carbon monoxide alarm;

(b) Provide working batteries if a carbon monoxide alarm is battery operated or has a battery operated backup system; and

(c) Provide the new tenant with alarm testing instructions.

(2) If the landlord receives written notice from the tenant of a deficiency of a carbon monoxide alarm, other than dead batteries, the landlord must repair or replace the

alarm.

(3) A tenant must test, at least every six months, and replace batteries as needed in any carbon monoxide alarm provided by the landlord and notify the landlord in

writing of any operating deficiencies.

Stat. Auth.: ORS 476.725

Stats. Implemented: ORS 476.725

Hist.: OSFM 3-2010(Temp), f. 4-8-10, cert. ef. 7-1-10 thru 12-28-10

837-047-0170

Tampering with a Carbon Monoxide Alarm Prohibited

A person may not remove or tamper with a carbon monoxide alarm installed in accordance with these rules. Tampering includes removal of working batteries.

Stat. Auth.: ORS 476.725

Stats. Implemented: ORS 476.725

Hist.: OSFM 3-2010(Temp), f. 4-8-10, cert. ef. 7-1-10 thru 12-28-10

Notes

1.) This online version of the OREGON BULLETIN is provided for convenience of reference and enhanced access. The official, record copy of this

publication is contained in the original Administrative Orders and Rulemaking Notices filed with the Secretary of State, Archives Division. Discrepancies,

if any, are satisfied in favor of the original versions. Use the

rulemaking actions after November 13, 2009.

2.) Copyright 2010 Oregon Secretary of State:

OAR Revision Cumulative Index found in the Oregon Bulletin to access a numerical list ofTerms and Conditions of UseAlphabetical

Index of Agencies (2010 OAR Compilation)Department of Oregon State Police, Office of State Fire Marshal – May Bulletin Page 2 of 3

http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/rules/0510_Bulletin/0510_ch837_bulletin.html 7/1/2010

Energy Efficiency News from Energy Trust of Oregon

admin — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 21:17:37 +0000

This is great news from Energy Trust of Oregon regarding the number of Oregonians taking advantage of Energy Incentives to invest in weatherization and efficient heating & cooling systems.

Check out the article below:

Oregonians completed almost 93,000 energy projects in 2009, a new annual record and an increase of 58 percent over 2008. Our work helped 84,000 households, 1,700 businesses and more than 450 industrial customers participate in Energy Trust programs last year. Oregonians used incentives to make changes large and small:

• Homeowners replaced aging refrigerators and washers, invested in weatherization and efficient heating and cooling systems.
• Businesses continued to invest in high-efficiency lighting and efficient HVAC solutions.

• For industry, our small industrial initiative (which provides streamlined operations for agriculture and smaller industrial operations) resulted in a nearly 70 percent growth in the number of efficiency projects over 2008.
• More than twice as many residential solar electric projects were completed in 2009 than in 2008, while commercial solar projects increased by 14 percent.

• Even though delays in project completion shifted four average megawatts of new renewable generation into 2010, 10 small wind systems, three biopower projects, a large solar project and a geothermal project were completed.

Those investments, supported by Energy Trust incentives and state and federal tax credits, pay dividends and make Oregonians more financially secure for years to come.

The associated energy savings and generation saved Oregonians nearly $165 million in 2009, approximately $450,000 a day. These projects saved 32.3 average megawatts of electricity—enough to power more than 25,000 homes. They also saved nearly 2.9 million therms of natural gas—enough to heat approximately 5,700 homes.

Beyond driving new savings and generation, together we helped expand Oregon’s clean energy workforce, providing jobs and living wages. We helped create almost 2,300 new jobs, generated $76 million in wages and stimulated $11 million in new business income.

If you are interested in completing Energy Efficient upgrades on your home please contact the Renovation Concepts Energy Efficiency team to have a Home Performance review done. Contact LaDonna Miller- President of Renovation Concepts to schedule an appointment. (503) 310-9076 or ladonnamiller@earthlink.net

The 1st Annual Stewardship Project was a great Success

admin — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 15:16:18 +0000

Rod Faunt of Land Services Inc.

Tony Darco & James Labinski of Gene Darco Painting

Greg Jones & Benjamin of Olson & Jones Construction Inc

Jim Bruce & Greg Simons

This past week-end, many Renovation Concepts members joined REACH Community Development to help a southeast Portland senior make her home safe and livable by donating over $15,000 worth of home improvement supplies, materials & labor.

I am honored to have the following company’s in the Renovation Concepts program. They each donated their time to make a great difference in this home-owners life. Many thanks to the following companies that made this project a real success!

AAA Heating & Cooling

Buildesign, LLC: Greg Simons

Emma Shea Interiors: Sharon Vieregg & Kristen Abele

Gene Darco Painting: Tony Darco & James Labinski

Interstate Flooring Co: Debbie VanBaardwyk

JB Construction Inc. Jim Bruce

Joan Mullen Woods Interiors: Joan Mullen Woods

LandServices: Rod Faunt & Thomas

Lisac’s Fireplace: Laura Hertner

Olson & Jones: Greg Olson & Benjamin

RailPro USA: Corey & Trevor

Reds Electric: Jim Ferris

Sofa Table Chair: Susan & Ron Walter

Stevens Printing: Jessica Raffaele

The Whole 9 Yards: Amy Estrin

Zion Metal Works: Christine & Larry Jenks

For more information on these top building/design professionals or if you are planning on doing a remodeling/design/landscape project please visit:

www.RenovationConcepts.net or contact LaDonna Miller- President of Renovation Concepts (503) 310-9076.

The 1st Annual Stewardship Project was a total Success

admin — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:56:37 +0000

Tony Darco & James Labinski of Gene Darco Painting

The Project Home

Jessica Raffaele & Joan Mullen Woods

Amy Estrin of the The Whole 9 Yards & LaDonna Miller

AAA Heating & Cooling

Buildesign, LLC: Greg Simons

Emma Shea Interiors: Sharon Vieregg & Kristen Abele

Gene Darco Painting: Tony Darco & James Labinski

Interstate Flooring Co: Debbie VanBaardwyk

JB Construction Inc. Jim Bruce

Joan Mullen Woods Interiors: Joan Mullen Woods

LandServices: Rod Faunt & Thomas

Lisac’s Fireplace: Laura Hertner

Olson & Jones: Greg Olson & Benjamin

RailPro USA: Corey & Trevor

Reds Electric: Jim Ferris

Sofa Table Chair: Susan & Ron Walter

Stevens Printing: Jessica Raffaele

The Whole 9 Yards: Amy Estrin

Zion Metal Works: Christine & Larry Jenks

For more information on these top building/design professionals or if you are planning on doing a remodeling/design/landscape project please visit:

www.RenovationConcepts.net or contact LaDonna Miller- President of Renovation Concepts (503) 310-9076.

The 1st Annual Stewardship Project was a great Success

admin — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:43:54 +0000

Rod Faunt, Sharon Vieregg, Laura Hertner, Christin & Larry Jenks

: Joan Mullen Woods & Homeowner

: Barrett, LaDonna, Anastasia & Dana

AAA Heating & Cooling

Buildesign, LLC: Greg Simons

Emma Shea Interiors: Sharon Vieregg & Kristen Abele

Gene Darco Painting: Tony Darco & James Labinski

Interstate Flooring Co: Debbie VanBaardwyk

JB Construction Inc. Jim Bruce

Joan Mullen Woods Interiors: Joan Mullen Woods

LandServices: Rod Faunt & Thomas

Lisac’s Fireplace: Laura Hertner

Olson & Jones: Greg Olson & Benjamin

RailPro USA: Corey & Trevor

Reds Electric: Jim Ferris

Sofa Table Chair: Susan & Ron Walter

Stevens Printing: Jessica Raffaele

The Whole 9 Yards: Amy Estrin

Zion Metal Works: Christine & Larry Jenks

For more information on these top building/design professionals or if you are planning on doing a remodeling/design/landscape project please visit:

www.RenovationConcepts.net or contact LaDonna Miller- President of Renovation Concepts (503) 310-9076.

The 1st Annual Stewardship Project was a great success

admin — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:30:24 +0000

: Rod Faunt, Greg Simons, Jim Ferris

: Jim Bruce & Debbie Van Baardwyk

: Christine & Larry Jenks

I am honored to have the following company’s in the Renovation Concepts program. They each donated their time to make a great difference in this home-owners life.

Many thanks to the following companies that made this project a real success!

AAA Heating & Cooling

Buildesign, LLC: Greg Simons

Emma Shea Interiors: Sharon Vieregg & Kristen Abele

Gene Darco Painting: Tony Darco & Travis Still

Interstate Flooring Co: Debbie VanBaardwyk

JB Construction Inc. Jim Bruce

Joan Mullen Woods Interiors: Joan Mullen Woods

LandServices: Rod Faunt & Thomas

Lisac’s Fireplace: Laura Hertner

Olson & Jones: Greg Olson & Benjamin

RailPro USA: Corey & Trevor

Reds Electric: Jim Ferris

Sofa Table Chair: Susan & Ron Walter

Stevens Printing: Jessica Raffaele

The Whole 9 Yards: Amy Estrin

Zion Metal Works: Christine & Larry Jenks

For more information on these top building/design professionals or if you are planning on doing a remodeling/design/landscape project please visit:

www.RenovationConcepts.net or contact LaDonna Miller- President of Renovation Concepts (503) 310-9076.

The 1st Annual Stewardship Project with REACH was a total Success

admin — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:22:40 +0000

Jessica Raffaele of Stevens PrintingBarrett, LaDonna, Anastasia & Dana

Thomas of Land Services Inc.

AAA Heating & Cooling

Buildesign, LLC: Greg Simons

Emma Shea Interiors: Sharon Vieregg & Kristen Abele

Gene Darco Painting: Tony Darco & James Labinski

Interstate Flooring Co: Debbie VanBaardwyk

JB Construction Inc. Jim Bruce

Joan Mullen Woods Interiors: Joan Mullen Woods

LandServices: Rod Faunt & Thomas

Lisac’s Fireplace: Laura Hertner

Olson & Jones: Greg Olson & Benjamin

RailPro USA: Corey & Trevor

Reds Electric: Jim Ferris

Sofa Table Chair: Susan & Ron Walter

Stevens Printing: Jessica Raffaele

The Whole 9 Yards: Amy Estrin

Zion Metal Works: Christine & Larry Jenks

For more information on these top building/design professionals or if you are planning on doing a remodeling/design/landscape project please visit:

www.RenovationConcepts.net or contact LaDonna Miller- President of Renovation Concepts (503) 310-9076.

The 1st Annual Stewardship Project with REACH was a great success

admin — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:11:07 +0000

RailPro- Corey & TrevorRod Faunt, Greg Simons and Jim Ferris

Jim Bruce & Greg Simons

: The Olson & Jones team- Benjamin & Greg Olson

I am honored to have the following company’s in the Renovation Concepts program. They each donated their time to make a great difference in this home-owners life.

Many thanks to the following companies that made this project a real success!

AAA Heating & Cooling

Buildesign, LLC: Greg Simons

Emma Shea Interiors: Sharon Vieregg & Kristen Abele

Gene Darco Painting: Tony Darco & James Labinski

Interstate Flooring Co: Debbie VanBaardwyk

JB Construction Inc. Jim Bruce

Joan Mullen Woods Interiors: Joan Mullen Woods

LandServices: Rod Faunt & Thomas

Lisac’s Fireplace: Laura Hertner

Olson & Jones: Greg Olson & Benjamin

RailPro USA: Corey & Trevor

Reds Electric: Jim Ferris

Sofa Table Chair: Susan & Ron Walter

Stevens Printing: Jessica Raffaele

The Whole 9 Yards- Amy Estrin

Zion Metal Works: Christine & Larry Jenks

For more information on this professionals or if you are planning on doing a remodeling/design/landscape project please visit:

www.RenovationConcepts.net or contact LaDonna Miller- President of Renovation Concepts (503) 310-9076.

REACH COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT/RENOVATION CONCEPTS FIRST ANNUAL STEWARDSHIP PROJECT

admin — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 16:56:06 +0000

NEWS RELEASE

REACH Media Contact:

Laura J. Recko

lrecko@reachcdc.org(503) 231-0682 x131

June 4, 2010

REACH TEAMS UP WITH RENOVATION CONCEPTS

TO HELP A SOUTHEAST PORTLAND RESIDENT

PORTLAND, OR – More than 20 local businesses are joining REACH on Saturday, June 5

to help a southeast Portland senior make her home safe and livable by donating over$15,000 worth of home improvement supplies and materials.

Volunteers from RenovationConcepts, Portland’s leading team of sustainable building and design professionals, are teaming up with REACH Community Development to complete repairs on the home of a recently widowed 68-year-old Richmond neighborhood resident.The homeowner has received several citations from the City for a variety of housing code violations and is currently living in her car. It’s just too expensive for her to make the repairs in the current economic downturn.

“This time in my life has been so dark. Working with all these nice, generous people has been a light in my life. There are no words to explain what this means to me,” says the homeowner.

The economic downturn has hit Oregon homeowners especially hard, particularly seniors who are struggling to pay their mortgages and continue basic upkeep on their homes.

REACH responds to this community need by providing free home repairs for senior homeowners throughout Portland.

Renovation Concepts members AAA Heating & Cooling; Bollinger Window Fashions; Builddesign, LLC; Emma Shea Interiors; Gene Darco Painting; Interstate Flooring Co; JB Construction Inc.; Joan Mullen Woods Interiors; LandServices; Olson & Jones; RailPro USA;Reds Electric; Sofa Table Chair; Stevens Printing; The Whole 9 Yards; and Zion Metal Works are all donating their time and resources to help this homeowner.

“As members of the building and design community in Portland, we are honored to be able to dedicate our time and talents to this project,” says LaDonna Miller, President. “We’re very excited about the opportunity to work with REACH. We sincerely hope our efforts make a difference in this homeowner’s life.”

“REACH is committed to helping Portland’s seniors be able to live safely in their homes,” says Dee Walsh, Executive Director. “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Renovation Concepts, who’re dedicating a very generous amount of their time and resources to provide a vital resource to seniors who can’t afford to keep their homes safe and livable.”

For more information about REACH’s Community Builders Program, please contact Anastasia Howard, Manager, at (503) 519-2099 or visit

www.reachcdc.orgFor more information about Renovation Concepts, please contact LaDonna Miller, President, at (503) 310-9076, or visit

www.renovationconcepts.netSince 1982, REACH has been developing and managing affordable housing and

providing supportive services to our residents. REACH also sponsors the Community

Builders Program, a free home repair program available to low income senior homeowners.

Our portfolio of over 1,300 units includes single family homes, apartment buildings and mixed-use developments located across the City of Portland.

Renovation Concepts is a comprehensive resource for consumers searching for top building and design professionals in the Portland Metro area. Renovation Concepts has over 30 professionals to assist homeowners with all of their remodeling, design, landscape and energy efficiency upgrade projects.

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For more information please contact LaDonna Miller- ladonnamiller@earthlink.net www.RenovationConcepts.net(503) 310-9076

Green Homes Selling Faster than Traditional Homes According to NAHB

admin — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 23:50:43 +0000

This was a great article from the National Home Builders Association regarding the Sales Data for Green Homes:

Some great points from this article:

1. Builders who attended the National Conference of Home Builders said that “Green Homes” have sold faster in this market than traditional homes.

2. Energy efficiency, according to speakers at the conference, remains the most salient aspect of the industry’s move to sustainability, and is the one benefit that’s most easily recognized by consumers.

3. Problems have surfaced from Appraisers who do not recognize and give credit for Energy Efficient Homes. The solution according to these experts:

Ask for an appraiser who has appraised one of these homes or has knowledge in energy efficiency.

4. As part of the third-party verification process, Porter said that builder should be sure to obtain a residential energy report form from the HERS (Home Energy Rating Systems) rater and provide copies to the lender and appraiser, as documentation that the home is qualified for an EEM or EIM

The full article is highlighted below:

Green Homes Said to Sell Faster, But Appraisals Remain a Sticking Point

This affordably priced green duplex is in the NAHB National Green Building Award-winning community of Rosewood Hills in Columbia, S.C.,

While official statistics may be lacking, many builders attending the NAHB National Green Building Conference in Raleigh, N.C., on May 16-18 said that they have been able to sell sustainably built homes considerably faster than the traditionally built new homes that have been languishing in today’s tough market.

Green builders, however, have little immunity from the tight financial conditions that have been plaguing the housing market and imposing difficulties for both home buyers and sellers. And the widespread problem of low appraisals — driven largely by a glut of foreclosed properties and a slow market — has been doubly frustrating for green builders because the vast majority of appraisers are unable to recognize the value that green features add to the home.

Energy efficiency, according to speakers at the conference, remains the most salient aspect of the industry’s move to sustainability, and is the one benefit that’s most easily recognized by consumers. Unfortunately, the prospect of sharp reductions in monthly utility bills has not gained much attention from the lending community, and mortgages recognizing those savings remain mostly an idea whose potential has been largely unrealized.

Another ongoing challenge is that the concept of green housing is not well understood by the general public, conference panelists said, and a significant share of prospective buyers are actually turned off by it. Green builders were advised to market the specific benefits of their homes rather than selling green, and to avoid providing too much technical information, which can quickly go over the heads of buyers and discourage sales.

While builders have found that there are buyers who are willing to pay a premium for green features, speakers at this year’s conference emphasized that the price gap between green and standard housing is closing, helped along by tax and other incentives. In general, however, home buyers may be reluctant to pay more for certain items unless they can be shown how these will pay for themselves through lower operating and maintenance costs over a reasonable period of time.

Several builders were on hand in Raleigh to discuss how they have been successful in moving sustainable construction principles into affordable housing. Those attending the conference also heard how green is being incorporated into the multifamily sector and factory-built housing, the latter profiting from a manufacturing process that inherently provides greater precision and holds construction waste to a minimum.

Industry professionals attending the show seemed to feel fairly optimistic about their business prospects and expected green to give them even more of an edge as this segment of the marketplace becomes further established during the full-scale housing recovery that will emerge in the next couple of years.

But the mortgage market isn’t geared up to do an effective job of providing financing for those green homes, they were told, a complaint that hit an especially raw nerve at the conference.

Green Homes Face a Red Light

“Green homes face a red light,” said Rick Porter, CAPS, CGA, CGP, CMP, MIRM, of PorterWorks. “Appraisers don’t understand costs and buyers can’t get the full financing they need.”

In a show of hands from the audience at Porter’s breakout session on the latest in appraising and lending on green building, only a few said that one of their customers had ever been offered an energy efficient mortgage (EEM) or energy improvement mortgage (EIM) or that an appraiser had solicited information on the energy features of one of their homes.

Citing Fannie Mae guidelines advising lenders not to assume that an appraiser is competent, Porter told builders, “You have every right to say I want a competent appraiser. You do not need to roll over on this. If they have not seen or appraised a green home, ask for an appraiser who has appraised one of these homes or has knowledge in energy efficiency.”

Builders have the misperception that they are not even allowed to talk to appraisers these days, said Porter, but as long as they are not unduly trying to influence the valuation, they can voice their concerns through the lender and Appraisal Management Company.

The Appraisal Institute has initiated a one-day seminar on green building and it is presenting webinars, he said, “but I don’t know if this is enough.” Only about 25% of the nation’s roughly 105,000 appraisers are even a member of an organization, “so they are nomads.” In the meantime, underwriters are “tinkering” with appraisals.

As part of the third-party verification process, Porter said that builder should be sure to obtain a residential energy report form from the HERS (Home Energy Rating Systems) rater and provide copies to the lender and appraiser, as documentation that the home is qualified for an EEM or EIM.

Porter also said that Fannie Mae’s Universal Residential Appraisal Form (Form 1004) should have a box at the top for information such as the HERS rating and its certification. In the version of the form that exists today, towards the bottom of the front page there is one line provided for additional green features, such as special energy-efficient items.

To make appraisers and lenders more knowledgeable about the value of green, Porter said that builders should also be handing out or referring them to “Marshall & Swift Green Building Costs.” Selling for $98.95, the publication includes the costs of the most common green items for new construction and retrofits, including labor and other factors. About 1,500 items were recently added to the list.

Comps a Sacred Cow

Porter said that taking the cost approach is “a start” to moving away from appraisals based on comparable sales made nearby and recently. Finding suitable comps has been difficult enough for traditionally constructed homes in a down market, but even more problematic for innovative homes with features that are not commonplace.

“Who made comps the sacred cow?” Porter asked. Moving to a different approach, he suggested, and compiling market information at the national level might be able to substantiate such claims as “green homes sell faster.”

The good news in this regard is that Multiple Listing Services have begun to include information on green features, and a Green MLS Tool Kit is now available to educate Realtors® about gathering data on green homes so that comparables will be possible. The bad news, he said, is that only an estimated 20 to 40 of the 850 MLSs in the U.S. have started tracking green so far. Also, a disproportionate number of new green homes are not listed because they are custom built. “The answer is to build some specs,” he said.

Also, lenders need to factor in utility and maintenance costs to the calculations they use to qualify buyers for mortgages, he suggested. “What happens to the $400 differential” between a house built in the 1960s with an average monthly expenditure of $500 for energy and an Energy Star house that costs $89 a month? Lenders, he said, “are not looking at the full cost of ownership.”

Demanding Energy Efficient Mortgages

In effect, the energy efficient mortgage treats savings on energy as an addition to the borrower’s income. While these loans exist mostly in theory, “you need to start demanding these,” he said.

Although it has been hardly used, Porter said that the Federal Housing Administration’s 203(k) is “the loan right now to get a home green and energy-efficient” and the answer to the energy retrofit that most existing homes need. The loan enables cost-effective energy-saving measures to be financed as part of the mortgage and enables the buyer to qualify for a larger loan amount by considering the monthly savings on energy and allowing higher qualifying ratios. The actual amounts are based on the HERS report.

While no one to date has systematically estimated the actual value green adds to a home, Porter (along with at least one other speaker at the conference) referenced early research calculating that every $1 in annual energy savings brings roughly $20 in additional value. Finding enough data to reach such a conclusion is one problem, and further complicating things is that fact that the bottom line on how much energy is saved ultimately depends on the behavior of the occupants of the home.

Conducted by Rick Nevin and Gregory Watson and published in 1998 by The Appraisal Journal, beyond making calculations, the research concludes that: “The implication for appraisers is that cost-effective energy efficiency investments do appear to be reflected in residential housing market values. Therefore, the appraised value of energy-efficient homes could understate their actual resale value if the comparables used in the appraisal do not reflect the value of a cost-effective energy efficiency investment.”

As an additional resource, Porter mentioned www.dsireusa.org, which is a compendium of available incentives for features that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. “Lenders and appraisers need to know about them,” he said.

For more information, e-mail Calli Schmidt at NAHB, or call her at 800-368-5242 x8132

For more information on purchasing a green home in Portland Oregon please contact LaDonna Miller- Broker- Oregon First Real Estate

ladonnamiller@earthlink.net or http://www.renovationconcepts.net/building-and-remodeling-services/real-estate/ (503) 310-9076

$150 Cash Back Bonus Promotion from Energy Trust of Oregon

admin — Sat, 22 May 2010 00:50:40 +0000

This year, we launched the Renovation Concepts Energy Efficiency team. This team was developed to help homeowners make their homes more energy efficient. We are all Trade Ally’s with Energy Trust of Oregon.

The team consists of A Cut Above Exteriors, Olson & Jones Construction, AAA Heating & Cooling and JB Insulation.

This was a $150 Cash Back Bonus promotion from Energy Trust of Oregon that homeowners can take advantage of when they schedule three or more projects to be completed.

Here are the details below:

$150 Cash-Back Bonus Coupon for Your Home Performance with ENERGY STAR

^{® ProjectThis coupon entitles qualifying Oregon homeowners who heat their homes with fuel by Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural or Cascade Natural Gas to a $150 cash-back bonus, in addition to standard Energy Trust of Oregon cash incentives, when at least three qualifying improvements are installed between April 1, 2010, and December 31, 2010. This offer is good for a limited time only, and only one coupon may be redeemed per household.}

^{Follow these easy steps to save energy and earn your bonus cash incentive: 1) Find a Home Performance contractor at www.energytrust.org/hp. 2) Install at least three qualifying improvements. 3) Complete this coupon, following the instructions on the back. 4) Mail this coupon together with a completed Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Form 320HPWES (available from your contractor or online at www.energytrust.org) and a copy of your contractor invoice marked “paid in full” to the address listed on the back. See reverse side of coupon for eligible improvements and additional rules and instructions.}

For more information on making your home more Energy Efficient please contact LaDonna Miller- President of Renovation Concepts for more information (503) 310-9076 or ladonnamiller@earthlink.net

Customer information

Name:__________________________________________________________

Address:________________________________________________________

City:_________________________State:______Zip:____________________

Daytime phone:____________________Email:________________________

Signature:_______________________________________________________

Dates of improvements installation________________________________

Contractor information

Contractor, company name:_______________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

Contractor address:______________________________________________

City:_________________________________State:_____Zip:____________

The Rebuilding Center is hosting a fundraising Event

admin — Thu, 20 May 2010 04:22:38 +0000

OPEN THE DOOR TO SUSTAINABILITY

Please join us on June 19^th to celebrate the

vibrancy of sustainability in our region with

local food, one of a kind reclaimed art and

entertainment .

Open the DOOR to Sustainability will be

Portland’s first waste-free fun(d)-raising

event full of recognition and continued joint

efforts to bring sustainable living to the

forefront of our communities. Show your

support for sustainability and the work of

The ReBuilding Center while enjoying the

spirit that makes our region such a unique

and wonderful place to live.

THE AUCTION

The event will feature a very special door carved by premiere Northwest artist, LeRoy Setziol, on display for the first time. To learn the unique story of how this door almost wound up in the landfill click here.

Inspired by the story of how LeRoy’s door came to The ReBuilding Center and by his incredible craftsmanship, over 50 local artists created original works of art from our own salvaged doors. Each art door embodies the ethos of sustainability. These doors will be auctioned at the event — offering a unique opportunity to own an original work of art by a talented local artist. For more information about the doors and the artists behind them, click here.

An exciting “Best of Live” raffle offers the opportunity to win the Live Auction item of your choice for only $100. Only 100 tickets will be sold.

The auction event will be full to the brim with amazing packages and items including:

LeRoy Setziol hand carved door
Sustainable art doors by local artist
One Week vacation rental on Orcas Island
Electric Scooter from Columbia Scooters
Mt. Hood Meadows 2010-2011 Season Lift Tickets
An escorted, behind the scenes tour of Trailblazers Central – for 15 people
Two Nights of casual sophistication at the Nines Hotel
“Romeo and Juliet” two night package at The Heathman Hotel
One full year of Organic Valley Milk
And so much more…

ENTERTAINMENT

In addition to a live and silent auction, guests will enjoy live music; local, organic food catered by Abby’s Table; and locally produced beers, wines and spirits. We hope you’ll join us.

TICKETS

Click here to purchase tickets to this exciting event.

DONATE

While we already have many exciting auction items, there is always room for more! We’d love to hear from you if you’d like to support this event with a donation. Consider things like: pottery, stained glass, items made from salvaged materials, tickets, gift certificates, dinners, art, music and vacations. Get creative! Click here to learn how.

Creating Healthy Indoor Environments in Portland Homes

admin — Tue, 18 May 2010 19:45:49 +0000

This is an interesting Calendar of Event item on Indoor Air Quality sponsored by the Oregon Environmental Council.

On June 12, OEC will host a day-long training for volunteers to learn the key principles of creating healthy indoor environments. Join our session and get the tools you need to spread the word about reducing chemical exposure and improving environmental health in your home and community.

OEC is offering a full-day training for volunteer leaders interested in learning the principles of toxic reduction in the home and the benefits to human health. Participants will also learn tips and tricks for becoming effective community advocates and for leading community workshops to bring the Eco-Healthy Home materials to more social circles.

Participants will be the first to receive our new Eco-Healthy Homes Check-up Kit.

The workshop is free, but space is limited to 16 participants. We’ll give first priority to current OEC volunteers and others who’ve shown a commitment to our mission through our action network or as supporting members.

For more information on improving the Indoor Air Quality by having a Home Performance Review completed by the Renovation Concepts Energy Efficiency Team, please contact LaDonna Miller- (503) 310-9076 to schedule an appointment.

Renovation Concepts

Calendar of Events for Art & Furniture festivals in the Portland & surrounding area

New Continuing Real Estate Requirements for Current Oregon Real Estate Brokers

The A Cut Above Exteriors Party

A Cut Above Exteriors hosted a great Renovation Concepts Party

Passive Solar Design by Solar Oregon

Creating A Not So Big Inspired Home

Sofa Table Chair offers 15% off of all Special order upholstered furniture

New laws for smoke dectors for multi family housing in Oregon

Energy Efficiency News from Energy Trust of Oregon

The 1st Annual Stewardship Project was a great Success

The 1st Annual Stewardship Project was a total Success

The 1st Annual Stewardship Project was a great Success

The 1st Annual Stewardship Project was a great success

The 1st Annual Stewardship Project with REACH was a total Success

The 1st Annual Stewardship Project with REACH was a great success

REACH COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT/RENOVATION CONCEPTS FIRST ANNUAL STEWARDSHIP PROJECT

Green Homes Selling Faster than Traditional Homes According to NAHB

$150 Cash Back Bonus Promotion from Energy Trust of Oregon

The Rebuilding Center is hosting a fundraising Event

OPEN THE DOOR TO SUSTAINABILITY

THE AUCTION

The event will feature a very special door carved by premiere Northwest artist, LeRoy Setziol, on display for the first time. To learn the unique story of how this door almost wound up in the landfill click here.

The auction event will be full to the brim with amazing packages and items including:

In addition to a live and silent auction, guests will enjoy live music; local, organic food catered by Abby’s Table; and locally produced beers, wines and spirits. We hope you’ll join us. TICKETS Click here to purchase tickets to this exciting event. DONATE

Creating Healthy Indoor Environments in Portland Homes

In addition to a live and silent auction, guests will enjoy live music; local, organic food catered by Abby’s Table; and locally produced beers, wines and spirits. We hope you’ll join us.

TICKETS

Click here to purchase tickets to this exciting event.

DONATE