2010 Albany Art and Air Festival

Sure to be a really fun weekend. Plenty of good music, hot air balloons, art and food. Early balloon fill and launch is awesome to watch.  Went last year and loved every minute of it. This year’s Saturday night entertainment is America.

Vist the site for details

Chapter II — Well, It’s a Deep Subject…

Venturi to Submersible: Better Efficiency

The “old” well system at our “new” house in Corvallis, was based on something we were told is called a Venturi System (it may also be called a “Double Drop Jet-Pump System). It involves physics and back pressure. The pump actually had to pump water back into the well, to create pressure to bring water to the house.  We learned that this was not the most efficient process to use and in fact the water pressure was much less (about 3-4 time less) than with a submersible pump.  So, the first official house project after moving was… (drum roll please) to change the well over from the old pump system to a new one.

One challenge we had is that the well (in the ground) was located in the driveway. Part of putting in a submersible pump meant that we had to raise the wellhead to 18″ above the ground (this is a good practice for keeping your well un-contaminated and is actually code in Oregon now). We want to be able to use the driveway without obstacles so putting a structure over the well was not acceptable.

The solution: put the well in a vault.  We (Adam, see blisters)  had to dig up the well to see how deep the well head really was so that the vault could be spec’ed out. We waited a while for a specific vault to be built.  Meanwhile, we (Adam) dug a hole big enough for the vault and a trench to expose the rest of the pipes and  electrical and such so that the well team could deal with it.  Huge blisters from that work…

The slide show pretty much shows how the workday went. We were without water for a few hours, but nothing excessive.  Hat’s off to Mainline Pump and Irrigation, in Philomath, Oregon  for the great job!

We have GREAT water pressure now and a quiet pump.

HOME FOR SALE- 1780 Clover Ridge Rd. NE, Albany, Oregon

Beautiful horse property or other hobby farm uses. Exceptional acreage close in to Albany; easy commute to Salem and Corvallis. Partially fenced acreage with level pasture, seasonal pond, oak and other trees, and fenced front yard. Very private, yet not isolated. Single level living has gorgeous master suite with jetted tub, shower and plenty of storage, nice sized secondary bedrooms, updated windows and attached 2-car garage. Large shop and RV parking provides all the space you could need. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 2132 sq. ft. on 5.26 acres

Solid single level home on 5.26 acres located in Northeast Albany is near to local schools, parks and shopping. Also has convienent access to both Corvallis and Salem and everything that those communities have to offer.

Living room is cozy and spacious with large bay garden window and wood burning fireplace with insert. Built-in niche with shelves and firewood storage, inset ceiling lights, and arched doorway to kitchen adds a touch of character. Family room is light and open with large sliding glas door that maximizes your living space by providing access to the back yard and patio, an ideal place for back yard barbeques and outdoor parties.

Kitchen is neutral and bright with large window above the sink with calming pastoral views, ample cabinet storage and counter space, microwave niche, and access to the living room, laundry room/mudroom, and 2-car attached garage. Laundry room/mudroom has tons of storage with cabinets, shoe cubbies and coat hooks, wash sink, attached full bath, and access to the kitchen and 2-car attached garage.

Master suite is private and spacious. Private hallway with motion sensor entry lights, ceiling fan, large walk-in closet with built-in storage, additional closets, and private deck with calming pastoral views. Luxurious master bath is complete with jetted soaking tub, step-in shower, large linen closet, and dual sink vanity. 2 additional bedrooms, one “double sized” with ceiling fan and built-in desk, both with pastoral views, and main bath with soaking tub and linen storage tower completes the floor plan.

Outbuildings include a machine shed and a 32′ x 28′ shop with 2 roll-up doors and attached covered RV storage/parking.

5.26 acres also has level pasture, seasonal creek and pond, fenced front yard, perimeter fencing, RV parking, Oak and other trees, room for horses and other animals, gardening, play, relaxation, and more.

MLS#628419

Search for more homes for sale in Albany and Corvallis here.

Home For Sale– 6298 SW Grand Oaks Drive #G-204, Corvallis, Oregon

Fantastic 3 bedroom, 2 bath one-level contemporary living with balcony overlooking wooded area. Hardwood floors, granite counter-tops, stainless steel/black appliances and alder craftsman style cabinets in kitchen. Gas fireplace in living room. Baths have travertine tile counter-tops and floors. Master bedroom with large closet and attached bath with jetted tub. Top floor unit enhances privacy and quiet enjoyment. Covered balcony with storage. Carport parking space near entry. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1108 sq. ft.

Single level contemporary condo located in the West Oaks Condos complex in the Southwest Corvallis neighborhood of Grand Oaks. Close to Oregon State University, Sunset Shopping Center, and the Benton County Fairgrounds. Just minutes from downtown Corvallis and Philomath. Enjoy outdoor recreation activities at the nearby Grand Oaks Park, Bald Hill Natural Area and the Irish Bend Covered Bridge bike path.

Great-room style living room, dining room, and kitchen is the hub of the home. Living room is cozy and inviting with  vaulted ceilings and gas fireplace with tile surround and TV or art niche above. Access to the covered balcony maximizes your living space and is great for entertaining. Kitchen has dramatic black granite tile counter-tops, alder craftsman cabinetry, black/stainless steel appliances, and breakfast bar.

Enjoy simple luxury in the master bedroom with vaulted ceilings, spacious walk-in closet and attached bath. Master bath has vanity with tumbled travertine tile and jetted tub. Two secondary bedrooms, full bath, and laundry closet complete this unit’s floor plan. Covered balcony has secure storage closet and wooded views. Carport space is conveniently located close to the front door. Top floor unit is quiet and private.

MLS#631943

Search for more homes for sale in Corvallis here.

If you’re looking for ways to help you save more and spend less, one of the best places to start could be right at home. Put these tips to work to help cut your next electric bill.

10. Install Motion Detectors on Lights: Kids are notorious for leaving lights on by accident. This easy trick can help you say goodbye to wasted electricity – and sky high bills.

9. Wash Clothes in Cold Water: Since most of the energy used by top-loading washers is to heat water, washing in cold can help you save each month.

8. Tint Home Windows: For windows that get a lot of sun, you can add a layer of solar window film to deflect sunlight and help conserve energy.

7. Program Your Thermostat: Simply set it to raise or lower your thermostat for the times when you’re not at home.

6. Unplug Appliances: Even when they’re not in use your toaster, laptop and can opener drain power. So unplug them and save.

5. Wash your Lint Trap: Since dryer sheets can cause a transparent film that burns out the heating unit, it’s vital to wash your lint trap with hot soapy water every 6 months.

4. Change your Showerhead: Replacing it with a low-flow head can use less water per minute – so there’s less to heat.

3. Cook on the Back Burner: By turning on your exhaust fan and using the rear burner on hot days, warm air will be sucked out which minimizes AC use.

2. Change your Light Bulbs: Compact florescent bulbs use a quarter the electricity and last longer than regular bulbs. And, they’re a more environmentally responsible choice.

1. Check Furniture Placement: Rugs or furniture that block a vent can really cost you. Move them and save!

These ideas were sent to me via an American Home Shield newsletter. The American Home Shield (AHS)/Coldwell Banker Home Warranty Program has saved my buyers and sellers thousands of dollars on covered repairs. I highly recommend a warranty with every transaction.

HOME FOR SALE- 3211 NW McKinley Drive, Corvallis, Oregon

Spacious home with beautiful views in great Northwest Corvallis location. Solid construction is a blank slate for your customizations and improvements. Spacious living room off kitchen has dramatic wood burning fireplace with gas starter. Main level master with full bath. Upper level has large bedroom (could easily divide to two); big rec room and two additional rooms. Finished area over garage not included in square footage provides additional storage/office/craft space. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, approximately 2430 sq. ft. on .24 acres.

 Solid home located in a desirable Northwest Corvallis nighborhood, close to Timberhill Athletic Club, local parks, schools, shopping, CH2MHill, medical facilities, and just minutes from downtown Corvallis and Oregon State University. Enjoy a wide variety of outdoor recreation activities at the various parks nearby, including Chepenafa Springs, Cloverland, Timberhill, and Woodland Meadow.

Living room and dining area combo is light and bright with huge wall of windows and nice woodland and hillside views. Stone wood burning fireplace with gas starter keeps the atmosphere cozy and comfy, and built-in storage and seating is convenient. Access to back deck and yard makes this an ideal place for year round entertaining. Access to the kitchen and entry as well as pass through openings to the kitchen keeps food and conversation moving during diner parties and family get togethers.

Neutral and bright kitchen has access to both the living room/dining area combo, laundry room, and second back deck. Ample counter space and cabinet storage, as well as and entire wall of pantries gives you all the space you could need. Access to second deck is great for casual dining and relaxing. Laundry room is spacious with utility sink and ample cabinet storage.

Master bedroom is main level with an attached bath, complete with dual sink vanity and tub/shower combo. Upstairs are additional bedrooms, full bath, bonus room, and multipurpose area. Back yard has two decks, woodland and hillside views, and natural and native landscaping.

MLS#631624
Search for more homes for sale in Corvallis here.

HOME FOR SALE- 1108 Kerrisdale Dr. SE, Albany, Oregon

Welcome to this beautiful home with “great room” style living that’s open and light. Spacious kitchen provides storage with step in pantry, ample cabinet and counter space with breakfast bar, adjacent dining area with access to backyard. Living room features a cozy gas fireplace. Upstairs extras include laundry room and “loft” area great for computer nook, hobby or sitting area. Master bedroom features attached bath with double vanity. Landscaped setting with fenced backyard, southern exposure, raised beds and flagstone terrace. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approximately 1771 sq. ft. on .11 acres.

Nestled in the quiet Chartwell Station subdivision in Southeast Albany, this home is close to both Oak Elementary School and South Albany High School. Just minutes from shopping, medical facilities, downtown Albany, and Linn-Benton Community College. This home also has easy access to both Corvallis and Salem and everything that those communities have to offer.

Living room is open and bright with a great-room style floor plan that provides access to the kitchen and dining area. Gas fireplace keeps this area warm and cozy and has an architectural niche above, ideal for a TV or your favorite piece of art. Kitchen is the heart of the home. Open to both the dining area and living room, the kitchen has ample counter and cabinet space, walk-in pantry, breakfast bar, and access to the 2-car attached garage. Dining area has large windows and access to the back patio and yard, great for summer barbeques and outdoor parties. Powder bath is central to the main floor and is ideal for guest use.

Master suite has attached master bathroom, spacious walk-in closet, and large windows to maximize serene pastoral views. Master bath has a dual sink vanity, shower/tub combo, separate water closet, and access to the walk-in closet. A loft area that sits atop the stairs provides a great space for a reading nook, home office, or an area that can suite your needs. 2 additional bedrooms have large windows that provides an abundance of natural light and share a quaint jack-and-jill bath. Laundry room is central to the upper floor and is spacious with tons of room for storage.

Spacious backyard is landscaped and fenced and has room for play of all ages. Patio and flagstone terrace are ideal for outdoor entertaining and has access to the home through the dining are and kitchen. Raised garden beds with southern exposure gives you a place to plant your own sustainable garden.

Community areas include a community park and nature trails just down the street, great for play, birthday parties, barbeques, and picnics.

MLS# 626767

Search for more homes for sale in Albany and Corvallis here.

HOME FOR SALE– 5168 Springhill Drive NW, Albany, Oregon

Comfortable elegance welcomes you to this Northwest gem. Gourmet kitchen with Viking appliances, slab granite counters, walk-in pantry and custom “food network” butcher block. Dramatic floor to ceiling fireplace is a focal point of the great room family areas. Main level master provides a quiet retreat with spa style bath and walk-in closet. Comfortable main level guest room with en-suite bath. Upstairs find roomy bedrooms and a fun bonus area. Outdoor living includes landscaped yard, patios, garden, spa and 40×45 shop. 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 3528 sq. ft. on 2.02 acres 

This beautiful Pacific Northwest gem is located in the North Albany community and is conveniently close to shopping, medical facilities, dining, and recreation opportunities, including multiple golf courses. Easy access to everything that both Albany (approx. 6 miles) and Corvallis (approx. 10 miles) have to offer. Central to both public and private schools, including The Groves Elementary, North Albany Middle, West Albany High, Santiam Christian (approx. 6 miles), and Corvallis Waldorf (approx. 10 miles). Set back away from the road on over 2 acres, a paved private drive, gorgeous curb appeal, and manicured landscaping welcomes you home. Quaint covered porch with swing and water feature is a great place to relax and watch the world go by.

You are greeted with light as you enter the two story foyer that has access to the formal dining room, guest suite, second floor, and great-room living room. Huge storage closet maximizes the space underneath the stairs.

Formal dining room is just off the kitchen and is great for family gatherings or dinner parties and can comfortably accommodate 8 people. Gourmet kitchen is h perfect place for preparing everything from feasts to snacks. Top of the line stainless steel Viking appliances, including dishwasher, 4-burner gas range, hood with warming rack, large refrigerator, convection microwave, and 56 bottle capacity beverage refrigerator. Granite slab counter-tops, custom cherry cabinetry, center island with end-grain walnut butcher block, walk-in pantry, breakfast bar, work station, and glass display cabinets. Kitchen is part of the great-room floor plan with the dining nook and living room.

Living room is warm and inviting with the two story floor-to-ceiling stone and tile gas fireplace. Open to both the kitchen and dining nook, the great-room layout provides a great space for entertaining. Access to the back patio expands your living space and is ideal for outdoor parties and barbeques. Two story high ceilings with windows creates an open and bright atmosphere and a loft style hallway on the upper story gives you a bird’s eye view of the great room. Beautiful hardwood flooring throughout the living room, dining nook, kitchen, formal dining room, foyer, and guest room.

Master suite is calming and serene with gas fireplace, making this an ideal retreat from the rest of the world. Access to the back patio allows you to join in the backyard fun whenever you choose. Attached master bath is your spa away from spa with soaking tub, dual sink vanity, shower, separate water closet, and spacious walk-in closet.

Guest room is spacious and bright with an ensuite bath with separate shower area and lots of counter space. Laundry room features a large utility sink and ample counter space and cabinet storage. Laundry room and garage access are close together so that laundry room could easily double as a mudroom.

Upstairs you’ll find 3 generously sized bedrooms, full bath and a spacious bonus room with a large window that can serve as a play room, craft or artist studio, TV or game room, or as a space that suits your needs.

Several outdoor spaces are great for everyone!

Like to garden? Fenced area with 3 raised garden beds and drip irrigation is home to several varieties of herbs, vegetables, and berries. Large garden shed is an ideal place to store all your garden tools and do a bit of potting.

Are you the cookout master? Spacious patio and covered porch is great for the outdoor chef and entertainer with porch swing, wiring for outdoor speakers, exposed aggregate concrete, natural gas barbeque connection, and access to both the master suite and great-room living area.

Have toys big or small? Enjoy your personal park, with play structure and dolphin water feature is a great place for adults and kids alike to enjoy. Store your bigger toys inside the 40′ x 45′ shop, complete with passage door and two 10′ x 14′ roll-up doors, power and connected to the security system. Loft inside the shop allows for gear storage and is conveniently located so your gear can easily be loaded into your boat or truck with just a quick toss. Dual basin utility sink is great for clean-up of any kind.

Need some relaxation time? Enjoy the covered hot tub area with seating alcove. Candelabra over the hot tub provides mood lighting if you so choose.

Other amenities:

Attached 3-car garage
Central vacuum system
ADT alarm system
Attic storage
Wired for outdoor holiday lights

MLS#631614 & 631627

Search for more homes for sale in Albany and Corvallis here.

HOME FOR SALE– 2380 NW Green Circle, Corvallis, Oregon

Bright and cheerlful single level home with vaulted ceilings and cozy wood burning fireplace in living room. Great location near shopping, medical, schools, and recreation opportunities. New carpet and freshly painted inside. Other recent improvements include newer water heater and dishwasher. Very nice, private backyard space with patio, plantings (crepe myrtle, lilac and hosta) and lawn. Oversized single car garage. 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, approx. 1071 sq. ft. on .11 acres

Located in Northwest Corvallis, this bright and cheerful single level home is convenient to everything, including CH2MHill, shopping, medical facilities, local schools, Boys and Girls Club, Osborne Aquatic Center, Brandis Park, Garfield Park, and other recreational opportunities. Just minutes from downtown Corvallis and Oregon State University campus. New carpet and interior paint throughout.

Living room is open and light with vaulted  ceilings, large window, and cozy brick wood burning fireplace with built-in bookcase. Kitchen is neutral and bright with white cabinets and appliances, including a new dishwasher. Kitchen is open to the dining room. Dining room has vaulted ceilings and is open to both the kitchen and the living room. Dining room also has access to the backyard and patio, ideal for backyard barbeques and outdoor parties.

Master bedroom is light and bright with ceiling fan and access to the main bath. Main bath is neutral with a shower/tub combo and access to both the hallway and the master bedroom. 2 additional bedrooms and a laundry room with lots of storage space and white washer and dryer complete the floorplan. Backyard has patio just off the dining room and lush plantings, including Crepe Myrtle, Lilac, and Hostas, and lawn. Attached oversized single car garage.

MLS#629621

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HOME FOR SALE- 2956 NW 13th Street, Corvallis, Oregon

Affordable and beautiful townhouse style living in quiet Northwest Corvallis. Close to shopping, schools, medical, transit line and recreation (including biking and hiking trails). Light and bright with French doors from living room to sheltered outdoor living space. Wood burning fireplace with travertine tile accents. Mud room/laundry room with access to yard. Landscaped street-to-street lot. Finished garage provides additional versatile space. 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, approximately 896 sq. ft. on .12 acres

Charming curb appeal welcomes you home. Beautiful landscaping on a street-to-street lot is lush and low maintenance. Located in a quiet Northwest Corvallis neighborhood near local schools, Brandis Park, Chip Ross Park, recreation trails, medical facilities, CH2M Hill, shopping, and just minutes from downtown Corvallis and Oregon State University.

Living room is open and bright with a great room style floor plan. Skylight and French doors that lead out onto the back terrace lets in lots of natural light. Wood burning fireplace with Travertine tile accents keeps the atmosphere cozy and friendly.  Dining room and kitchen has an open floor plan that is ideal for entertaining and has white appliances and a neutral color pallet. A few steps up from the main level are two bedrooms and a full bath with shower tub combo. Downstairs is a laundry room/mudroom combination with ample storage and backyard access. The back terrace is a great space for outdoor parties and barbeques and expands your living space with access to the living room through French doors. Backyard has room for your dreams from play, entertaining, gardening and more!

MLS#627467
Search for more homes for sale in Corvallis here.