Located in the Willamette Valley, Eugene is situated between the coast range to the west and the rugged Cascade Range to the east. This provides for a moderate climate that rarely exceeds 90 degrees in the summer and occasionally dips into the low 20's in the winter. Downtown Eugene is at an elevation of 426' above sea level.

Education opportunities are abundant in the area, featuring the University of Oregon "Fighting Ducks", Lane Community College, Northwest Christian College, Excellent public schools, and many other great Vocational, Business, Academic Colleges and Universities.

Mountain Biking along pristine streams

The area's economy is very diverse from the Wood Products Industry to High Tech Manufacturing and all occupations in between including services, trade, government, manufacturing, finance, insurance, real estate, construction, transportation, commonalties, utilities, mining, quarrying, farming and many other opportunities.

Recreation, Culture and Entertainment are plentiful in and around our area. Within close proximity to Eugene you can enjoy world-class downhill and cross country skiing at popular resorts like Willamette Pass, Hoodoo, and Mt Bachelor. Hiking opportunities abound, along the pristine Willamette and McKenzie rivers or under the emerald green canopies of 250-year-old Douglas fir trees. Over 25 miles of off street cycling and 300 miles of designated bike trails and paths through out Eugene/Springfield are available.

Hiking in the Old Growth Forests

More than 49 city parks covering over 2000 acres. Easy access to three national forests. Recreation Opportunities from the Coast to the Cascades. Fishing, hiking, skiing (water and snow), boating, rafting, sailing, canoeing, jet skiing, camping, pick nicking, swimming and much more. Many close by lakes to choose from.

The Eugene/Springfield areas are very culturally diverse; during the summer months you can enjoy the Saturday market and Farmers market or the popular Oregon Country Fair. Year round the Hult Center for the Performing Arts offers Cabaret, Ballet, Choir, Opera, Symphony and many Theatrical productions, while the Cuthbert Amphitheater offers concerts in the great outdoors. Eugene is rated as one of the top places in the U.S. to live. Once you experience the quality of life in this area you will understand why!

First Time Buyers >Affording A Home Are you getting ready to buy your first home? It is important to know how much you can afford before you begin looking at properties. Talking with a lender and getting pre-approved for a loan puts you in a stronger negotiating position with sellers. As a rule, your monthly housing costs should not exceed 28% of your monthly pre-tax income. These costs include the mortgage payment, real estate taxes, and insurance. If you have long-term debts, such as student loans or car payments, your monthly payments, including your housing costs, should be less than 36% of your pre-tax monthly income. Some loans, such as VA and FHA loans, are more flexible with these basic guidelines. Depending on which type of mortgage you select, you can consider houses in various price ranges. An adjustable-rate mortgage will usually enable you to qualify for a higher loan amount. Your real estate agent can help you make the basic calculations. Remember that buying at the top end of your price range gives you more time to outgrow your home, and can save you money over the long term. See All Tips In The "First Time Buyers" Category > See Complete Library Of Hundreds Of Tips In 30+ Categories >

Q  Lenders in 14 states--California, New York, Oregon, Utah, Vermont and Wisconsin and 9 others--have what in common? A  Lender in these states must pay interest on funds held in escrow accounts. See More Real Estate Trivia >

Mike Smith Premier Real Estate & Property Management, LLC 95064 Toftdahl Lane Junction City, Oregon 97448 Phone: 541-234-2288 Fax: 541-234-2187 Cell: 541-954-4946 E-Mail: mikesmithbroker@NUMBER1EXPERT.com Direct E-Mail: BrokerMike@Comcast.net Mike Smith is one of the top Broker's in the Eugene/Springfield area. With over 25 years of Real Estate experience, he has a proven track record that few Broker'can match! Experienced affiliates work with Mike to provide SUPERIOR SERVICE. They free Mike to spend more time with YOU! State of the art computers and other technologies allow Mike to provide fast, efficient, knowledgable, service to his clients! Mike's credentials include. CCIM Canidate, Vast knowledge of 1031 Tax Deferred and Reverse Exchanges, Specializing in Residential, Multi Family Investments, Development Land, Property Management, and Farms/Ranches Serving Lane and South Linn Counties www.mikesmithbroker.com is brought to you by Mike Smith Best Image Agent(s) in real estate for Eugene, Springfield and Lane County, Oregon Read Mike Smith's Privacy Guarantee, Terms of Service, and Free & Without Obligation Pledge