Thom Butts, Real Estate Broker

10/20/2026

Your dad joke of the day!

10/19/2026

Success is a journey, but the ride makes it better. There’s nothing like the feeling of pulling into your new home in style.

Thom Butts
Licensed in OR & WA
[email protected]
www.thombutts.com

10/19/2026

Nobody tells Portland homebuyers about this cost. 👇 Your down payment is just the start. Closing costs typically run 2%-5% of the purchase price (about $10,000-$25,000 on a $500,000 home), and I recommend a sewer scope and radon test on every Portland home. Want to know your real cash-to-close number before you make an offer? Message me at Thom Butts Real Estate.

Here's what to budget for before you write an offer:

💰 Closing costs: Lender fees, the appraisal, title insurance, escrow services, and recording charges all count. Ask your lender for an itemized estimate early, and talk with me about whether a seller credit could help.

🔍 Inspections: In the Portland metro area, a sewer scope runs about $100-$150, radon testing about $125-$160, and an oil tank scan about $150-$200. Underground pipes aren't visible on a walkthrough, so a scope is the only way to know what you're buying.

📅 Monthly costs: Principal and interest aren't your whole payment. Plan for property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA dues, utilities, and possibly mortgage insurance. Multnomah County property taxes are based on assessed value, not market value.

🔧 After closing: Set aside money for moving, repairs, and immediate needs like new locks and appliances. Buying a condo? Ask about reserves and special assessments.

Ready for a clear budget? Message me at Thom Butts Real Estate and let's map out your costs.

10/18/2026

Do you like this take on an accent wall?

Thom Butts
Licensed in OR & WA
[email protected]
www.thombutts.com

10/16/2026

Buyers, before you house hunt, do this one thing first: get pre-approved for a mortgage. In Oregon, a verified pre-approval shows you what you can really afford and tells sellers you’re a serious buyer. Here’s how to do it in 6 simple steps, plus the local down payment assistance most buyers never ask about. 👇

1️⃣ Check your credit and set a comfortable monthly budget. Pull your free reports at AnnualCreditReport.com.
2️⃣ Ask a local Realtor to introduce you to responsive lenders, then compare fees, loan options, and communication, not just rates.
3️⃣ Gather your documents: recent pay stubs, W-2s, two years of tax returns, bank statements, and proof of your down payment source.
4️⃣ Make sure your lender verifies everything. That’s a real pre-approval, not an online estimate.
5️⃣ Explore Oregon assistance programs like OHCS FirstHome and NextStep, plus homebuyer education through Portland Housing Center / Arrive Homeownership.
6️⃣ Keep your finances steady. No new credit cards, job changes, or big money moves until after closing.

Most pre-approvals take 1–3 business days and last 60–90 days.

Thinking about buying in Portland, Gresham, Oregon City, or anywhere in Oregon? Message me and I’ll connect you with trusted local lenders and walk you through every step. - Thom Butts Real Estate

10/16/2026

Seller will pay your first 7 months of HOA Dues! Call me at (971) 998-6309 to schedule a showing.

Thom Butts
Licensed in OR & WA
[email protected]
www.thombutts.com

Light-filled corner condo in the King's Hill Historic District, about four blocks from Washington Park and its Rose Test Garden and Japanese Garden. Large windows fill the 849 sq ft main-level unit with light, and the private deck has treetop views. Inside you'll find a separate dining room, in-unit

10/16/2026

Looking for a new home? This listing could be the one! Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions! You can reach me at (971) 998-6309.

Thom Butts
Licensed in OR & WA
[email protected]
www.thombutts.com

The turn-key exception on Donatello Loop! Thoughtfully updated throughout, this Happy Valley beauty pairs timeless craftsmanship with today's finishes - beginning in the beautifully remodeled kitchen, where a double wall-oven, gas cooktop, and French-door refrigerator meet generous prep space, abund

10/16/2026

Looking for a new home? This listing could be the one! Seller is offering a huge credit at closing for the right buyer! Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions! You can reach me at (971) 998-6309.

Thom Butts
Licensed in OR & WA
[email protected]
www.thombutts.com

This spacious 5-bedroom, 3-full-bath home offers room for everyone, with brand-new LVP flooring flowing throughout the entire house for a fresh, cohesive feel from the moment you walk in. The main level welcomes you with a bright living room featuring a cozy gas fireplace, perfect for relaxing eveni

10/16/2026

Rooftop views, bustling streets, and vibrant energy—city living is a lifestyle. ✨What’s your favorite thing about it?

Thom Butts
Licensed in OR & WA
[email protected]
www.thombutts.com