Summer smoke…

It’s no secret that we’ve had our share of smoke this summer and a lot of people have asked what kind of effect it has had on real estate.  Well… the truth is that the only evidence we have is anecdotal.  We have had clients who have decided to hold off on their home search as they contemplate whether or not to move to the Rogue Valley. This has meant fewer showings and a  slowdown in activity. That being said, there is often a bit of slowdown this time of year, smoke or not, as people who are moving often want to get settled before summer is over and before school starts.

We also had someone inquire whether we think there is going to be a mass sell-off as people look to escape the smoke.  While that’s a remote possibility, we like to look at the big picture and truly don’t think we’ll see that kind of reaction. Some people may have the option to leave town; however, most people have deep roots here and can’t simply pick up and leave. People are tied to their jobs, schools and the tremendous sense of community here in the Rogue Valley.  Yes, the smoke has certainly been a drag, but we can’t imagine leaving a place where we have so many connections and some of the best outdoor activities in the country.

Another thing to keep in mind is that while another region may seem like an ideal place to live and unaffected by smoke or other weather-related challenges, no place is immune.  Just last weekend, many Ashland residents fled to Portland to escape the smoke only to be met with similar conditions. Point being, you just never know where the best place to be is.  Many areas in the west have been plagued by wildfires and smoke. The east has been pummeled by rains and flooding. The south has been slammed by hurricanes.  You get the point…

So what to do?  Well, we’re trying to keep a positive attitude and take advantage of the times when the air quality makes it enjoyable to be out in this amazing valley. We’re also spending time with our friends and families and supporting our local restaurants and shops. There have some incredible movies at The Varsity Theater and we’ve seen them all!

Time will tell what kind of broader impact the smoke has on local real estate.  In the meantime, we’re going to enjoy what’s in front of us and look forward to a shift in the wind and the arrival of rain.  Be well.