A little story about opening an office.

Commuting. It's a critical part of the job for any full time REALTOR. We knew right away having a local office would really make things more convenient in this line of work. There's always the option of working from home, but it comes with its own set of downfalls. One of which is pretty obvious... creating boundaries to establish work-life balance. After nearly a dozen years in real estate, getting as close to home as possible became a serious focus to achieve one of the greatest gifts of all. Time. 

After looking for space in Sherwood in an effort to keep our commute to our corporate office at Hasson Company Realtors in Lake Oswego down, we began keeping an eye out for potential office space. We'd considered leasing, converting one of our rental properties or purchasing new space altogether. We looked at a few places, but were in no rush. It was more about being sure we found the right fit. After seeing this cute little house in Old Town sit on the market for a few years, we became more curious over time. 

Already having a rental right around the corner, the location here at 16227 SW 1st Street in Sherwood, Oregon was both a natural fit and held special memories for us in its day as The Lavender Tea House. In fact, our Principal Broker, Jason Gardner has a desk situated right under the window where my Mother and I used to sit when dined at the Lavender Tea House. It was our spot. It holds special memories and it's heartwarming to think we're helping families in the very same place we have a connection, as they create special memories of their own when we consult with them or help them purchase or sell a home.

Some people don't realize the name of this house is actually the “The John C. Owen House." This Queen Anne was built in 1892 by John C. Owen, a year before the City of Sherwood was incorporated. We actually have a copy of the original land sale agreement here in our office on display. It's quite magical to hold a piece of history in your hands that tells a story. This location has both served as a home and since the 1990's it's served the community along with quite a fan following as a tea house and bakery over the years.

When we bought this building it was equip with a commercial kitchen, great bones and lots of charm, but needed quite a bit of TLC since it had sat empty and alone for several years. We wanted to see it thriving again here in the historic district we call Old Town Sherwood. So we decided in 2014 to take a leap of faith and purchase it. Situated across the street from the Sherwood Historical Society (also known as the Sherwood Heritage Center) it feels like quite a fitting pair having a real estate office and information center here in this bustling downtown.

When we first moved in our office was just a quiet little suite alongside our friends bakery. Our bakery friends rented the space from us for a couple of years after outgrowing their original location on Railroad Street. Also just around the corner. This location presented a unique opportunity for them to relocate close by and take advantage of much needed expansion they were after. With some of the excess room, we discretely carved out space of our own for our personal real estate office. A chapter we were all proud of and that suited us well. The house was brought back to life and was yet again an active part of the community.

After the bakery retired towards the end of 2016, we had a new chapter to write. We mulled over several ideas but realized it was a good time for us to spread our wings as well. While it felt like forever, we only worked on the building for a few months before the grand opening of our real estate office in March of 2017. We made some simple adjustments and converted the space into executive office suites. While this is just one of the houses' many chapters, for now it's home to our real estate boutique where you'll find both Gardner Team Real Estate with Hasson Company Realtors here, along with a lender who occupies one of the three private executive wings.

We'd like to invite you to stop by anytime and see the space. We know it holds years of happy memories for so many. From baby showers, wedding showers, birthday's to countless other celebrations - it's still helping people along with their "next chapters" only in a different way. From dreaming of more bedrooms for your growing family. Downsizing as you become empty nesters. Beginning a new journey as first time buyers or relocating due to transitions in life. It's all has a unique similarity and we invite you to come to a place that's been a comfort to you when you have any real estate needs.

From our home to yours, we welcome you to the office of Gardner Team Real Estate.

Open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM and by appointment evenings and weekends.

The Gardner Team

16227 SW 1st Street in the heart of Old Town Sherwood

Office Lines: 971-832-1234, 971-832-1235, 971-832-1236