The Day We Told a Client “Not Yet”

Have you ever walked away from something you really wanted—only to realize later it was the best decision you could have made?

A few weeks ago, I sat across from a young couple in a coffee shop in SE Portland. They were glowing with excitement over a home they’d found in Montavilla. It had the right layout, a sunny backyard, and was only a block from their favorite brunch spot. They’d already pictured themselves moving in.

But as we talked through the numbers, the inspection report, and their longer-term goals, the picture started to shift. The roof was on its last leg, the electrical system needed a costly upgrade, and while the price was technically in their range, it left no room for the surprises that older Portland homes can hide. I could see the hesitation start to flicker in their eyes.

It’s never easy to be the one to say, “I don’t think this is the right move for you right now.” But that’s exactly what I did. We closed the laptop, finished our coffee, and agreed to keep looking. That afternoon wasn’t about making a sale—it was about protecting their future.

Moments like this remind me why I love Portland real estate: every decision is personal, and every home has its own set of stories waiting to unfold. This one just wasn’t theirs yet. And the trust that comes from showing up with honesty—that’s the kind of foundation no market shift can shake.

We approach every transaction with patience, care, and a long view of what’s best for our clients. Sometimes that means popping champagne on closing day. Sometimes it means saying “not yet.” Either way, our clients know we’re in it for the long haul.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling in the Portland area, we’d love to be part of your story.