Every Cloud Has a Green Lining

The Oregonian ran a very interesting article about how the down economy and slow real estate market is a boon to conservation groups. You know the old saying that every cloud has a silver lining, well the omnipresent cloud of a bad economy most certainly has a green lining. Conservation groups are buying acreage originally slotted as subdivisions guaranteeing that some valuable (and not just valuable in terms of money, but in terms of nature, beauty, serenity, etc.) local land will not be developed anytime soon.

I understand that I’m a real estate agent and I should want development so there are more homes to sell. Uh uh. I’m a Portlander first and, as such, I love the green, the nature, the ability to live in a city that has both culture and diversity, but also nature and serenity. It’s what brought me here from LA in the first place.

There really is a bright side to the down market. I represent a local non-profit that does redevelopment work in close-in SE Portland. They take run-down apartment buildings and turn them into beautiful new homes for lower income individuals. The tough real estate market has enabled them to purchase property that otherwise might not be available…and at very reasonable prices. They’re able to take local eyesores and beautify the neighborhood while providing housing for some really great people who just need a little help.

Yes, I can’t wait for an economic turaround, but while we wait, I’m happy that every cloud as a GREEN lining.

http://www.oregonlive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/05/conservationists_find_eager_se.html