A sense of place
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read

Summer has a rhythm all its own, with longer days, barbecues and kids running in and out with friends until the sun finally sets.
It’s also the time of year when many moms take a step back and really look at their home and property. Is it working for this season of life?
Perhaps you’re coming to realize that a bigger back yard is what you really want for your kids, to become that gathering place of a neighborhood. Or maybe it’s the opposite, and you find yourself longing for quiet, country property with room for your kids to roam.
As the saying goes in real estate, it’s about location, location, location. In the Salem area and surrounding communities, it helps to think of residential property in three categories:
Close-in
When homes are described as close-in, think of neighborhoods in town. Some families seek this type of lifestyle, where the sidewalks are filled with children’s chalk art, dog walkers pass by, and com-
mutes to schools and work might be shorter.
Semi-rural
You might find yourself drawn to pocket communities near rural zoning. The houses are built on larger lots and allow for hobby farms, shops and more. For families, semi-
rural is a little bit of country living with-
out being too far away from sports and other activities.
Rural
If the dream is to get away from it all, rural property is where it’s at. This type of living provides true quiet and night skies filled with stars. It might even be a working farm. For kids, it offers the chance to explore nature.
Whatever property and lifestyle you’re searching for, work with an experienced Realtor who will ask the right questions. For instance, with rural and semi-rural homes, well water and septic tanks are important. For close-in properties, you’ll want to know about HOAs and nearby zoning laws. An established Realtor who is familiar with this area can best guide you.
As a local Real Estate Broker and mom serving Marion and Polk Counties, Kim Leighty understands how much your home shapes your daily life. If you’re thinking about more space, a better layout, or a location that makes everyday routines easier, she can help you navigate what’s next.

Kim Leighty
REALTOR® /Broker
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Real Estate Professionals
(503) 510-9036 | kimleighty@bhhsrep.com




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