All Things PNW Real Estate

ATPNW Portland Spring Market Update

Real Estate professionals Jamal and Adam talk about what they are seeing in the Portland spring market, and talk about best practices, how to take advantage of higher rate environments, and other tips.

How Savvy Investors Pay Less Tax: Cost Segregation in Plain English

Attorney‑turned‑developer Dan DiCicco and lender‑vet Jody Cienfuegos break down how cost segregation and bonus depreciation can turn rental properties—especially in the PNW—into massive tax savings. We cover real‑world numbers, short‑term rental loopholes, depreciation recapture traps, and why parking lots and rehab projects might be your best friends this year.

Why Real Estate Is Still a People Business - 18 Years of Soldera Properties with Joe Fustolo

Hosts Jamal and Adam interview about 18 Years of Soldera with owner/founder Joe Fustolo- In this episode: Joe shares how he got into real estate straight out of college—choosing it over careers in orthodontics and psychology—and how his entrepreneurial mindset pushed him toward building his own company. Soldera was created to solve a gap in the industry: high fees with little support. From day one, the mission was clear—build a brokerage for brokers, focused on value, accessibility, and long-term success. A pivotal moment came immediately after launch when demand surged unexpectedly, forcing rapid growth and operational scaling. That early pressure helped shape Soldera into a boutique, high-performing brokerage with a strong emphasis on selective hiring, culture, and agent success. Joe emphasizes that ethics and relationships are the foundation of longevity. His philosophy is simple but powerful: * Protect your reputation at all costs * Focus on client experience over commissions * Build lifelong relationships, not one-off transactions The conversation also dives into how the industry has evolved—from pre-internet listings and manual processes to today’s AI-driven tools. While Joe embraces technology, he stresses that real estate remains a people business, and those who maintain a personal touch will always stand out. Key insights include: * AI should enhance efficiency, not replace human connection * The “road less traveled” (like direct mail or personalized service) is becoming more effective again * Success comes from adapting, learning, and staying relevant Joe also offers a candid take on starting a brokerage, highlighting that it’s far more complex than it appears—requiring leadership, infrastructure, and long-term commitment beyond just selling homes. The episode wraps with some lighter moments, including Joe’s favorite Portland restaurant—Ox—and his go-to drinks depending on the setting.

Function, Feeling, and the ‘Nancy Meyers’ Aesthetic with Mimi Sheldon

Are you tired of the "Millennial Gray" flip? In this episode, we’re joined by interior designer Mimi Sheldon to discuss why the era of stark, sterile homes is fading and what’s taking its place. Mimi shares her journey from growing up on job sites in San Diego to launching her own design studio and navigating the unique architectural landscape of Portland. In this episode, you’ll learn: * The "Nancy Meyers" Aesthetic: Why "lived-in" coziness, natural materials (like marble and wool), and darker wood tones are making a major comeback. * Design for Real Life: How to avoid "forcing habits" in a remodel and why the "work triangle" in your kitchen actually matters. * Selling Your Home? Mimi breaks down the three most impactful, cost-effective updates you can make before listing (Hint: It’s not just about staging!). * Personalization vs. Staging: How to strike the perfect balance between making a house feel like your home and keeping it a "blank canvas" for potential buyers. Whether you’re planning a $400,000 remodel or just looking for the perfect botanical gin cocktail recipe, Mimi’s insights on "blind confidence" and timeless design are not to be missed. Connect with Mimi: * Instagram: @MimiEstelleStudio * YouTube: Mimi Estelle Studio (Look for behind-the-scenes process videos and project highlights!)

A Deep dive on Zillow: Smart Shortcut or Expensive Detour?

In this episode, Jamal Abdoul and Adam Ruben discuss recent media coverage surrounding Zillow, focusing on an empirical study that alleges Zillow Home Loans has been charging higher mortgage rates than competing lenders between 2022 and 2024. 1. The Study’s Findings A professor’s regression analysis compared Zillow’s mortgage pricing to other lenders, controlling for borrower demographics, loan characteristics, geography, and time period. The study—based on CFPB rate spread data—suggests Zillow loans have become relatively more expensive over time, with particular impact on lower-income borrowers. The hosts highlight concerns that these borrowers, who may already face more barriers to homeownership, could be disproportionately affected by higher loan costs. 2. Zillow’s Integrated Business Model Adam and Jamal explain how Zillow operates as more than just a home search platform. Through integrated partnerships, agents participating in Zillow programs may have marketing agreements or financial incentives tied to Zillow-affiliated services, including Zillow Home Loans. While buyers are not required to use Zillow’s lending arm, they are often encouraged to speak with a Zillow lender when touring homes through the platform. The hosts note that agents may receive higher commission splits or back-end incentives when clients use Zillow Home Loans, raising questions about conflicts of interest and whether consumers always receive neutral guidance. 3. Consumer Awareness & Transparency The conversation emphasizes the importance of reading fine print. Zillow’s advertised rates and monthly payment estimates often assume: * 20% down payments * Best-case interest rates * Points paid upfront to lower rates While these practices are legal, the true cost may not be immediately clear to first-time or less-experienced buyers. The hosts stress the need for due diligence, comparison shopping, and working with trusted professionals to evaluate loan terms carefully. 4. Broader Market Context The episode also touches on current market trends: * Signs of a busier upcoming spring and summer market * Increased seller concessions in some areas * A significant year-over-year rise in refinance activity, as borrowers who bought at higher rates (7%+) look to lower their monthly payments Key Discussion Points: