Hood River Real Estate Update

AMERICAN FORESTS has documented the largest known specimens of every native and naturalized tree in the United States since 1940.  The largest tree of its species in the country is known as the National Champion.

There is much more than beauty, size, and strength of trees. Big trees provide much needed cooling shade and abundant places for wildlife to perch and nest. They also provide us with carbon dioxide, trap pollutants, and purify water.  Most trees outlive humans-100-200 years is not unusual.  They do develop problems as they age from disease and insects, weather-wind, rain, and drought. Sadly, they are often seen as "in the way" for property development and are cut down. 

Mature trees in neighborhoods are an attractive feature. I know of several newer developments in my area where the existing trees have been saved and incorporated into the community for all to enjoy.

This beautiful yellow poplar-tulip tree-(Liriodendron tulipifera L) located in Stevenson, WA. won an award in 2002 as one of the largest non-native trees in Skamania County.

Here are the sales for Hood River County by area for Oct 2007 compiled from the RMLS.

Cascade Locks- Area 361-  2 sales

Hood River- City- Area 362-  9 homes     11 condo units

Hood River-Westside-Area 363- 6 sales

Hood River-Eastside-Area 364-  0 sales

Odell-Area 366-  3 sales

Parkdale- Area 367-  1 sale

Total October 2007 sales for Hood River County- Single family homes/townhomes-21      Condo units- 11

Here are the latest sales  for Oct 2007 for Skamania County Washington.  This information was compiled from the RMLS-Regional Multiple Listing Service.

Skamania- Area 111      0 sales

North Bonneville- Area 112    0 Sales

Stevenson- Area 113     1 sale   $190,000

Carson- Area 114     3 Sales

Home Valley-Area 115   0 Sales

Cook/Underwood-Area 116   0 Sales

Total Sales for October in Skamania County- 4 sales

The Historic Columbia River highway-with its intricate stonework, graceful bridges and viaducts-was heralded as a technical and civic achievement of its day.  It is the oldest scenic highway in the United States. Work began on the Highway in 1913, dedicated in 1916 and completed in 1922. The Highway's design and execution were the result of two visionaries, Samuel Hill, lawyer, entrepreneur, and good road's promoter; and Samuel C. Lancaster who was an engineer and landscape architect.  Many citizens also provided leadership and advocacy for construction of what became known as "The King of Roads."

Today two sections of the original highway remain open to auto traffic. One is the 22 mile section between Troutdale and Ainsworth State Park. This section provides convenient access to numerous parks, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The other is a 9 mile fragment between Mosier and The Dalles with commanding views of the eastern Gorge.

Located directly across the Columbia River from Hood River, Oregon is the tiny town of Bingen, WA.  Many improvements have changed and continue changing this small mill town. Now you can eat at the popular Solstice Wood Fire Cafe, or Viento restaurant. Sample wines and hard ciders at the North Shore Wine Cellars. Live music is also offered on occasion on weekends. Find that special item or piece of furniture at Antiques & Oddities. Visit the Gorge Heritage Museum located in an old church with many artifacts and tales of the areas's Klickitat tribe. Stop at Dickey Farms for some delicious fresh produce.

Visit Bingen Point Marina Park located along the river, the

perfect place for a picnic lunch.  Insitu has brought economic growth to the community as well.  For current Bingen  news check here. Bingen News.    

Smart Development Corporation has done some nice projects in the Gorge. One of the projects currently underway is called Wyers End located in White Salmon Washington. This cottage development is located just three blocks from the center of town. There are both river and mountain views from these homes. They are walking distance to downtown White Salmon, shopping, post office, etc. They are small but have a lot of character.