Acclaimed restaurants with organic farm to table ingredients, an unsurpassed craft beer community, a reputable food carts culture with authentic flavors from around the world make up the dynamic culinary scene that’s been marinating here in Portland, Oregon.
There’s Vietnamese, Ethiopian, Lebanese, Polish, Mongolian, Peruvian, Cambodian, Bosnian, Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles, Creole, and New York Bagels.Gluten Free options abound, and restaurants offering full vegetarian, Paleo, or vegan menus can be found in every region of Portland metro.The brunch scene is a phenomenon that has even warranted it’s own Portlandia episode. The dark quirky taverns and upscale lounges serve artisan cocktails that include house distilled liquors, and bitters in flavors like rhubarb and Jamaican Jerk. While the extreme coffee culture here allows snobbish sippers the opportunity to spend an hour or more discussing beans and chemex apparatuses with their local barista.It’s true, that this West Coast town is a gastronomical force to be reckoned with.
In the spirit of memorable meals, our Realtors Dish and reminisce about their favorite dining experiences and delectable dishes:
Kelly Stafford –
Mortons: A cajun style Ribeye and a dirty Martini. What more does a girl need?
Veritable Quandary: great patio for the summer, I have had the best salad and Creme brûlée of my life here. A Portland Classic!
Ravioli with Lemon & Fromage Blanc at Veritable Quandary in downtown Portland. Image courtesy, Ruth Harnup
Tasty n’ Sons: It doesn’t matter what else is on the menu, because its all about the polenta with poached egg and sausage ragu. YUM!
Boke Bowl, Boke Bowl, Boke Bowl, go see why you need to eat at Boke Bowl.
Luda shares her family’s favorite restaurant.
Luda Mayzus –
Nicholas Restaurant (Lebanese on SE Grand). Nothing fancy here. My family loves My children love their freshly baked pita bread, saffron rice, hummus, falafel with yogurt dip, and beef kebabs! If there is no dinner, we get a take out and they are so happy. That is why it is my favorite restaurant!
Tammie is no stranger to indulgence at a Portland favorite, Zell’s.
Tammie Ellis –
Zell’s: Hands down Zell’s on 12th and Morrison is the best breakfast in town. The lines on the weekend proves how great the food and service is. It is always a great time to visit Zell’s for breakfast or lunch but I love to start a lazy summer day off with a stop at Zell’s. If I get really lucky, the menu will have the delicious crunchy French toast topped with seasonal fresh berry crème fraiche mixture. YUMMY!!!!
Scones at Zell’s, a favorite brunch spot in Portland. Image courtesy, eyeliam
Caldera Public House : This might be the best known secret in town for an after work stop with friends. A cold adult beverage, crazy great food, and a patio canopied by trees that you can escape the day and just breath. I highly recommend a visit on a warm summer night, you will not be disappointed.
Ryan has a taste for top-notch sour beers.
J. Ryan Conklin
Por Que No: I applaud any restaurant with shirts that simply say, “I love tacos.”
Por Que No in Portland, always a line out the door.
Cascade Barrel House: Excellent food and award winning sour beers.
There Be Monsters: Good food and a generous happy hour.
Do you have a 4-Legged member of your family?If you are living in Portland or thinking of moving here, there’s no time like the present to explore all of the incredible pet-friendly options that the city has to offer.Here are some fun ways to pamper your pooch or kitty.
Drinking and Dining – PETS ALLOWED!
There’s nothing better when the sun comes out in Portland, than kicking back on a patio and tasting the floral, hoppy, or bitter suds from a local craft beer.Better yet, compliment that selection with house cured sardines, or some french onion soup stuffed mushrooms.But, let’s face it, no one likes having to leave before the apps are served, just to let the dog out. So, bring him with you!Portland has many great pet-friendly establishments to enjoy.
Enjoy one of the many dog-friendly patios throughout Portland, Oregon.
Be Prepared:
It is against the health code to bring your pooch indoors.All pet-friendly establishments provide outdoor seating areas for you and your pet.
Be sure to bring your leash.
We have to first give a nod to the Lucky Labrador Brewing Company.They have 4 locations in or around Portland that are all canine friendly.We’ve listed them and others below:
North Portland –
Leisure Public House – 8002 N Lombard St., (503) 289-7606 – Six sidewalk tables available.
Northeast Portland –
Puppy lovin at Tin Shed Garden Cafe in Portland, Oregon. Get your Doggie Bandana at Tin Shed to help fund the Pixie Project, a Portland non-profit animal adoption center.
Tin Shed Garden Cafe – 1438 NE Alberta, (503) 288-6966, Every Tuesday evening (after 3pm) from now through June 2015 is Dog Lovers Night. Doggies receive a free meal with the purchase of one human meal.Right now they are raising funds for the Pixie Project, a Portland non-profit animal adoption center, by selling doggie bandanas. All proceeds going to the Pixie Project. If that wasn’t enough, these mushy hearted individuals give any pup 50% off their meal if they’re wearing their doggie bandana! Thanks Tin Shed!
Lompoc 5th Quadrant – 3901 N Williams Ave, (503) 288-3996, Covered and heated patio.
Lompoc Oaks Bottom – 1621 SE Bybee Blvd., (503) 232-1728, Only 2 tables available for pets.
Hedge House Lompoc – 3412 SE Division St, (503) 235-2215, Covered Patio with outdoor heaters available.
Northwest Portland –
Great Dog-Friendly patio at 21st Ave. Bar and Grill in NW Portland. Bring your dog and sample one of theirs! Try the IPA Beer Brat or the Pork Brat covered in “21 sauce” and caramelized onions. (Image Courtesy of 21st Ave. Bar and Grill)
Papa Haydn – 701 NW 23rd Ave, (503) 228-7317, Water bowls provided.
21st Ave Bar & Grill – 721 NW 21st Ave, (503) 222-4121, Four tables designated in front.
The Lompoc Tavern – 1620 NW 23rd Ave, (503) 894-9374, Covered Patio with outdoor heaters available.
Southwest Portland –
Everything from scratch and slow cooked with classical techniques, like mom used to make, only better! Known for their, mmm Mom’s Meatloaf & Gravy. And of course, everyone is welcome at Mom’s, so bring your canine friend along. (Image Courtesy of Mother’s Bistro and Bar)
The Daily Grill – 750 SW Alder St., (503) 294-7001- Three to four tables on sidewalk during summer. Attached to the lobby of Westin, where patrons can sit, order, and enjoy food with their pet.
Run Rover Run! – Looking for an off-leash dog park in Portland? Here are the Best Dog Parks around.
North Portland –
Chimney Park – 9360 N. Columbia Blvd. – 5+ acres, dedicated off-leash dog park that is completely fenced.
West Delta Park – 1809 N. Broadacre Rd. – 3 acre open area, no water.
Northeast Portland –
Wilshire Park Off-Leash Area – NE 33rd Ave. & Skidmore St.- Large off-leash area at the Northeast side of the park.
Sacajawea Park Dog Off-Leash – NE 75th Ave. & Roselawn St.- Fully fenced area for dogs.
Fernhill Park – NE 37th Ave. & Ainsworth St. – Large off-leash area.
Normandale Park – NE 57th Ave. & Halsey St. – 1.62 acre, dedicated off-leash dog park that is completely fenced. There is a designated area for small dogs.
Southeast Portland –
Tabor Park – SE 60th Ave. & SE Salmon St. – Large off-leash area at the southern end of the park.
Woodstock Park – SE 47th Ave. & Steele St. – Shared park with smaller designated off-leash area.
Laurelhurst Park – 3756 SE Oak St., – Shared 1.23 acre park, off-leash area at southern end of park.
Oregon’s biggest pet and people celebration, the Doggie Dash, happens each Spring, at the Waterfront Park in Portland.This huge pet-friendly fundraiser, organized by the Oregon Humane Society, is in it’s 28th consecutive year. (2015)The streets will be blocked off to make room for live music, food and drink booths, a Biscuit Challenge, and more!Runners and Walkers have options of a 1.5 or 2.5 mile run/walk. For information or to sign up check out http://www.oregonhumane.org/doggiedash/
Doggie Dash fundraiser event in Portland Oregon. Image Courtesy, Oregon Humane Society
Each Fall the crafters over at Lucky Labrador Brewing Company hold Dogtoberfest, a dog washing extravaganza event with proceeds going to Dove Lewis Emergency Animal Hospital. The 2015 event will be on Saturday, September 20th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Dogtoberfest happens each fall, and is a time to give back to the community. Proceeds go to the Dove Lewis Emergency Animal Hospital. “Wash some dogs, and raise some money.” (Image Courtesy, Lucky Labrador Brewing Co.)
Need a Pet Hotel?
There’s no reason Buster shouldn’t feel welcome.We’ve selected some of the best pet friendly hotels for housing your furry friend while visiting Portland.
$ – Econo Lodge Port of Portland – 9520 N.E. Sandy Blvd, (503) 252-6666
$$ – Shilo Inn and Suites Portland – 1506 NE 2nd Ave, (503) 736-6300
$15 non-refundable pet fee per night. Refundable deposits are $75 for 1-7 nights and $150 for 8+ days. Allows two up to 40 lbs for an additional
$$ – Holiday Inn – Portland Airport –8439 NE Columbia Blvd., (503) 256-5000, $20 non-refundable pet fee per night.
$$$ – The Hilton – 921 SW Sixth Ave., (503) 226-1611, $20 non-refundable pet fee per night. Maximum Weight: 75 lbs
Buying or Selling a home is a personal and life changing decision. Navigating a hot and fast real estate market, like Portland’s, can be daunting.Homes are disappearing at record rate, and bidding wars are rampant. So why not choose a champion to be on your team?
It’s crucial to find a realtor who knows the area, and will listen to your wants and needs.A good realtor is fast and responsive, can price a home accordingly, and negotiates like a bulldog.The bottom line is that you want to feel confident that you’ve gotten the most out of your dollar, and that there won’t be any unwanted headaches down the road.Select someone from the start who you’ll want fighting from your corner.
8 Tips for Selecting a Portland Realtor :
1. Experience:
The number one question that you should be asking is: “How many homes did you close in the past year?”You should also ask to see examples.Some realtors will even be able to provide references of past clients.This will give you an idea if they are successful, and if they are experienced in your type of transaction.Also, you’ll want to know how long they’ve been doing business. Five years or more is a good measuring stick.
Choose a Portland area realtor who is skilled at handling your type of transaction, from REO to commercial investments. Image courtesy: Jeff Turner
2. Local Knowledge, Facts, Figures,Track Record:
If you are a buyer, a good realtor should immediately be able to rattle off a portfolio of prospective properties that will fit your needs.Some will even be able to get you in to a showing that day.
If you are a seller, you’ll want to see examples of properties they’ve successfully sold in the past year that are similar to yours in size, price, and location.Also, how many days were these homes on the market?The key to selling homes quickly is to price them properly right out of the gate.Find a realtor who is up to speed on comparables and appraisals.A home that sits unsold on the market, could mean another month of mortgage eating away at your savings.
Finally, both buyers and sellers will want to compare the listing price to the final sale price in completed transactions.This will give you an excellent indicator of whether your realtor has quality negotiating skills.
3. What kind of Commission do they require?:
While most realtors stick to the typical commission rate in their area, everything is negotiable.The typical commission rate in the Portland Metro area is 6%, which is paid by the seller and split between the buyer’s agent and the seller’s agent.However, some brokerages offer a total of only a 4% commission rate to list a seller’s property.This means that the buyer’s agent would collect 2.5%, and the seller’s agent receives 1.5%.With properties in Portland easily bringing in $300,000 and over, this could mean the difference of thousands, or even tens of thousands of dollars in your pocket!
A knowledgable realtor will price your home correctly from the start, to ensure a quick sale. Portland, Oregon Image courtesy: American Advisors Group
4. Advertising:
What kind of a marketing campaign will they run?A marketing campaign for a listing can include the following: professional photographs, video tours, listings on real estate websites, advertisements in local newspapers and industry magazines, open houses (frequency?), social media, and signage.
5. Accolades, Reviews and Awards:
Take a look at their online reputation on consumer review sites like Google +, and Yelp.You can also check to see if they’ve won any awards in their field by checking their professional profile on sites like Zillow, Trulia, Homes.com, and Realtor.com.
6. Customer Service:
As you are interviewing your potential realtor, take note if they are actively listening to your needs.If the broker works with a large agency, find out who will be the main point of contact, and is this someone you will be able to work with?Also, how many active clients do they service at one time?
7. Communication and Response Time:
Ask about their response time.Your realtor should always call you back within 24 hours, and a great realtor will respond within a few hours. If you are the buyer in a hot seller’s market like Portland, sluggish communication could prevent you from landing your dream home.You’ll want an agent who responds quickly and in the means that is most convenient for you, whether it be text, email, or carrier pigeon.
8. Credentials and Specialization:
Even realtors who have been in the business for decades make mistakes.There are so many constant changes in the industry from zoning to REO transactions, that education can outweigh tenure when securing the deal.That is why it’s important to look at those little letters behind a realtors name, and find someone certified in handling your unique situation.
CRS (Certified Residential Specialist): Realtor has completed additional training to garner this high designation.
ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative): Realtor has completed additional training with focus on representing buyer-clients.
SRS (Seller Representative Specialist):This designation is awarded by the Council of Real Estate Brokerage Managers (CRB) for meeting set educational requirements, professional standards, experience and performance.
CRB (Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager) Realtor has completed advanced educational and professional requirements.
SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist): Realtor has completed training specific in servicing buyers and sellers over the age of fifty.
ALCs (Accredited Land Consultants): Realtor is a highly qualified expert in land transactions.They have completed the LANDU education program and adhere to a code of conduct, all reviewed by the REALTORS® Land Institute
CPM (Certified Property Management) – These individuals are experts in real estate management.
CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) –Realtor has completed extensive training to receive this global standard for professional excellence.
When moving into a new town or neighborhood, your family and their well-being come first. Greatschools.org gives Portland schools an overall rating of six out of ten.So, if you do have children, it’s very important to find a home in a school district on the higher end of the spectrum.There are plenty of quality schools offering a wide assortment of teaching styles and curriculum, so take some time in locating one where your child will be successful and can truly thrive.
You’re probably wondering:
“What questions should I be asking when choosing an Elementary School or High School for my child?”
This article sheds light on those questions, and you’ll also find statistics on local Portland schools rankings, class size, and more.
Do you feel confident that your child’s school is giving them the best education possible? (Image courtesy – Phil Roeder)
Learning Environment:
What kind of learner is your child, ie. do they have a dominant learning style?
Does he or she need extra support?
Does your child need more structure to stay focused?
Does the school offer field trips, hands on projects, and do they use visual and other learning aids regularly?
Learning clusters allow for discussion and thought processing to occur. Children can help each other master issues. Many elementary schools are introducing technology, like ipads, early on. (Image courtesy – Brad Flickinger)
Curriculum:
What is the schools educational approach or learning philosophy?
Is the school well-rounded offering the arts, languages, physical activities, and are they “wired” for online access and learning?
What are your child’s specific interests, and will this school be able to engage those interests?
What kind of after school programs/clubs/sports are available?
What kind of advanced placement or dual-credit courses do they offer?
Socialization:
What is the class size?
Will this school help your child feel confident and build upon their strengths?
Does he/she work well in groups?
Find a school that makes learning FUN! (Image courtesy – adwriter)
Aesthetics and Logistics:
How convenient is the location?
Does the school feel warm, inviting, and creative, or does it feel cold and institutional?
How does the school approach grades, homework, and discipline?
How well is the communication between teachers and students, and teachers and parents?
What is the graduation rate?
We’ve broken out some of the top rated schools in the Portland area by region, so that you can narrow in on your search for a top notch education. Included is the Oregon School Rating, which is a metric from 1-5 that is given by the state of OREGON based on standardized testing scores and other factors.(2014 Statistics)
How to Read This List:
School Name –
Grades Taught / Oregon School Rating (1-5) / Ave. Class Size
North Portland
Peninsula Elementary School – 8125 N. Emerald
K-8 / 4 / 20
The Portland Village School – 7654 N Delaware Ave.
K-8 / 4 / 24.2
Trillium Charter School- 5420 N Interstate Ave.
K-12 / 3 / na– Student Teacher Ratio 20:1
A lottery enrollment takes place end of March.
Roosevelt High School – 6941 N Central St
9-12 / 3 / na
This school is known as being one of the most ethnically diverse high schools in the state of Oregon.
Northeast Portland
Alameda Elementary School – 2732 NE Fremont St.
K-5 / 4 / 26.6
Irvington Elementary School – 501 North Dixon St.
K-5 / 4 / 22.7
Roseway Heights School – 7334 NE Siskiyou St.
K-8 / 4 / 23.1
Sabin School – 4013 NE 18th Ave.
PK-8 / 4 / 24.3
Laurelhurst School – 840 NE 41st Ave.
K-8 / 4 / 25.9
Beverly Cleary School – 1915 NE 33rd Ave.
K-8 / 5 / 26
Beaumont Middle School – 4043 NE Fremont St.
6-8 / 4 / na
Grant High School – 2245 NE 36th Ave.
9-12 / 4 / na – Student Teacher Ratio 25:1
Advanced placement courses available.
Benson Polytechnic High School – 546 NE 12TH Ave.
9-12 / 4 / na – Student Teacher Ratio 20:1
Bronze national ranking. Students test at or above the state average.Focus on a self selected curriculum in Health Science, Industry and Engineering, or Communications Technology.
SouthEast
Abernethy Elementary School – 2421 Southeast Orange Ave.
Also known as the Buckman Arts Focus Elementary School, with an innovative arts-integrated curriculum. Their stated goal is to “challenges the whole child–nourishing the intellectual, social, emotional, physical, and artistic development of each student”.
Maplewood Elementary School – 7452 SW 52nd Ave.
K-5 / 4 / 24.5
Woodmere Elementary School – 7900 SE Duke St.
K-5 / 4 / 23
Winterhaven School – 3830 SE 14th Ave.
K-8 / 5 / 28.9
Creative Science School – 1231 SE 92nd Ave.
K-8 / 4 / 27.4
Students are encouraged to be independent thinkers, to ask questions, and be problem solvers.
Creston School – 4701 SE Bush St.
K-8 / 4 / 18.4
Mt. Tabor Middle School – 5800 SE 58th Ave,
6-8 / 4 / na
Cleveland High School – 3400 SE 26th Ave.
9-12 / 4 / na– Student Teacher Ratio 22:1.
Students are offered International Baccalaureate course work and exams.
Franklin High School – 5405 SE Woodward St.
9-12 / 4 / na– Student Teacher Ratio 22:1.
Advanced Placement® course work and exams available.
Northwest
Emerson Charter School -105 NW Park Ave.
K-5 / 5 / 24
Forest Park Elementary School – 9935 NW Durrett St.
K-5 / 5 / 26.7
Skyline School – 11536 NW Skyline Blvd.
K-8 / 4 / 21.1
Westview High School – 4200 NW 185th, (Beaverton School District)
9-12 / 4 / na– Student Teacher Ratio 23:1.
Advanced Placement® course work and exams available.
Ranked #9 Top High School in the state of Oregon by US News and World Report.
Liberty High School – 21945 NW Wagon Way, (Hillsboro School District)
9-12 / 4 / na– Student Teacher Ratio 23:1.
Advanced Placement® course work and exams available.
Ranked #16 Top High School in the state of Oregon by US News and World Report.
Southwest
Bridlemile Elementary School – 4300 SW 47th Dr.
K-5 / 5 / 25.8
Stephenson Elementary School – 2627 SW Stephenson St.
K-5 / 5 / 27.5
Ainsworth Elementary School – 2425 SW Vista Ave.
K-5 / 4 / 24.7
Capitol Hill School – 8401 SW 17th Ave.
K-5 / 4 / 25.4
Hayhurst Shool – 5037 SW Iowa St, Portland
K-8 / 4 / 41.1
Gray Middle School – 5505 SW 23rd Ave.
6-8 / 4 / na
West Sylvan Middle School – 8111 SW West Slope Dr.
6-8 / 5 / na
International School of Beaverton – 17770 SW Blanton St.
(Beaverton School District)
6-12 / 4 / na– Student Teacher Ratio 25:1
Ranked #1 Top High School in the state of Oregon by US News and World Report
Lincoln High School – 1235 SW Salmon St.
9-12 / 4 / na– Student Teacher Ratio 25:1
Ranked #5 Top High School in the state of Oregon by US News and World Report
Wilson High School – 1151 SW Vermont
9-12 / 3 / na– Student Teacher Ratio 24:1
Ranked #8 Top High School in the state of Oregon by US News and World Report.Advanced Placement® course work and exams available.
If you are looking to relocate, contact Home Sweet Home Realty. Our team knows Portland and the surrounding areas. We look forward to finding the best fit for you, by assessing your needs and putting your family’s happiness first.
Your property manager should work for you, without hand holding or prompting.
A quality property manager will have answers to your questions, know the rental laws of Portland and the surrounding areas, and intercept problems before they arise.Findinga PM that is trustworthy and reputable is imperative whether you operate an investment portfolio or a single rental property.
What They Do:
Determine Rental Price
Collect Rent
Advertise and Fill Vacancies
Communicate to Your Tenant on Your Behalf
Arrange for and Oversee Repairs
Maintain Integrity of Property
Selecting a good property manager is crucial when protecting your investment. Image courtesy, Turkeychik
12 Questions You Should Be Asking When Choosing a Property Manager:
Ask for referrals from other property owners in the area.
Make sure the company is Local and Legit.Are they licensed in the state of the property that they will be overseeing, and/or are they close enough to the property to be available?
Experience counts!How many years have they been in service?Have they handled properties similar to yours in the past?
Look at the numbers. How many employees do they have?One expert says that a good rough number to judge by is that, a trained employee should be able to handle 30-40 units.
What do they charge?Property managers usually charge between 7 – 15%.Reputable companies in Portland charge on average 10%. However, it’s important to specify if that 10% is charged based on the rents that are actually collected, versus what could be collected.Do you want to pay 10% on a unit that hasn’t been filled?Chances are, probably not.
How often will they conduct formal inspections of the location?Depending on the type of tenant, whether commercial or residential, this could be a make or break issue in maintaining the integrity of the property.This is something that you will want to come to agreement upon upfront.
What’s the overall plan?How will they attract and keep quality renters for you?What is their fee for placing a tenant?This is why reviewing their plan for placing and maintaining quality tenants is crucial.These fees can add up if there is a lot of turnover.Remember that everything is negotiable, so set parameters that you and the PM can agree upon.
What kind of long term calendar items do they have in place to keep your property well-maintained?
Maintenance, collecting rents, inspections, should all be on the agenda of a quality property management company. Image courtesy, Kevin Dooley
Will they handle maintenance issues?Customarily, a property manager will utilize their own list of vendors and use their own authority to repair damages.These repairs will be paid for out of a reserve fund, up to a certain amount, to repair damages.You as the client can set this limit; it usually falls between $250 – $350.More severe and costly repairs will require a consultation between you and the property manager.There is also a standard fee charged of 10%, on top of the invoice, each time a repair is made.
Performance and Communication. Check their references.A good property management company should be able to supply you with 3 different references with whom you can check out their strengths, weaknesses, and success stories.This will also give you an idea of the kind of communication and customer service that you can expect from them.
Facts and Figures.You should feel as though there is a high level of transparency, as this is your investment.Is the company utilizing PM software that will produce reports on collections, fees, maintenance, and taxes?
Finally, when can they deliver?Set a date each month in which you will receive collected rents and reports.
Happy Hunting!
HSH Property Management is located in Oregon City, and specialize in 4-20 unit multifamily projects and investor portfolio management. However, there is no project too small!
Moving to Portland, looking to invest, or just wanting to downsize now that the kids have moved out? We’ve broken out the best neighborhoods in Portland, divulging flavor, demographics, and median home prices so that you can find the perfect fit.
Springtime along the waterfront in Portland, Oregon. (Image courtesy, Ian Sane)
The beauty of Portland, Oregon, is that you are always literally minutes away from a cool coffee shop, a clever dining experience, a bit of theatre or culture, an inviting park with mammoth pine trees, a community garden sprouting organic greens, a boutique with exclusive local jewelry, or a hand-crafted IPA. The city has been dubbed by numerous websites and magazines as America’s most bike friendly city. Portland also has an extensive and affordable transit system that easily connects each of it’s unique districts, which allows for a cozy sense of community. We welcome you to go explore!
Never a dull moment in Portland, Oregon. Bike Parade in motion. (Image courtesy, Tomas Quinones)
Kenton / Arbor Lodge / Portsmouth / St. Johns – North
Historic Kenton town has reemerged as a contender in the noteworthy neighborhoods of Portland.Like much of Portland, which is experiencing massive growth, this area has seen a renaissance of new shops, and restaurants in its downtown area on N. Denver Street.The neighborhood itself sits in North Portland, just south of the Columbia River and St. Johns.
The iconic Paul Bunyan statue gazes out over Historic Kenton in Portland.
The area has a quaint, slower feel than its southern counterparts, and feels well-established.Stop in to Posie’s Coffee Shop for fresh baked pastries and stroll through Kenton Park. Or, grab a local lager and people watch at the Kenton Station.The north edge of town is protected by the gaze of a massive and iconic Paul Bunyan statue. This national landmark was erected in honor of Oregon’s centennial celebration in 1959. From the Kenton Firehouse (circa 1913) to remnants of the towns meatpacking days, this charming downtown lives up to its title of Historic Kenton.
Tour this beautiful North Portland home, listed for sale 3924 N. Juneau St. in Portsmouth.
Contact Home Sweet Home Realty: info@hshrealty.net or by phone at (503) 515-2986 https://hshrealty.net/
Kenton Median Home Price: $258,700
Just South of Kenton lies Arbor Lodge, comprised of modest Bungalows, “Old Portland” style homes, Cape Cods, and others. There are two well-known parks in the area.The Peninsula Park and Rose Garden was a horse track race at the turn of the century; and the Arbor Lodge Park offers a big expanse and an off-leash policy for dog lovers.Arbor Lodge is flanked by a New Seasons and Fred Meyers, and is only a short 5 minute ride on the Max’s Yellow Line to Downtown.
Peninsula Park in North Portland’s Arbor Lodge is a favorite of local residents. (Image courtesy, Raven Stroud)
Arbor Lodge Median Home Price: $336,000
Portsmouth is home to the University of Portland, and is bordered by the Willamette River. It’s just south of St. Johns, and west of Kenton. The good location but still low prices make this area a perfect option for first time home buyers.
Tour this beautiful North Portland home, listed for sale 9322 N. Exeter Ave. in Portsmouth.
Contact Home Sweet Home Realty: info@hshrealty.net or by phone at (503) 515-2986 https://hshrealty.net/
Portsmouth Median Home Price: $239,900
Undoubtedly charming, St. Johns has been called a “town within a city”.The streets are lined with family-owned businesses that have been there serving this extraordinarily friendly “town” for generations.Cyclists venture to this North Portland area during good weather to take in the sights of the marvelous St. Johns suspension bridge, which was designed by the same acclaimed builder who reconstructed the Brooklyn Bridge.The Gothic-like towers have cemented this as one of Portland’s most iconic landmarks.
The iconic St. Johns Bridge in North Portland, Oregon. (Image courtesy, Adam Simmons )
People are flocking to this North Portland gem, where a New Seasons is set to open in 2016. And, with the ample green space and numerous walking trails at Cathedral Park, this area is sure to remain beautiful for years to come.
St. John’s Median Home Price: $234,700
Alberta Arts District / Concordia – Northeast
Bring on the funk!Outside of downtown, this flank of Portland keeps it urban and fresh (think Beastie Boys not spinach).The 20-block stretch on Alberta Street is home to moody little coffee shops, some of the best Indian food around at Bollywood Theatre, boutiques, music venues and of course, art.
Mural depicting life in the Alberta Arts District. Portland, Oregon
The area is a prime example of the power of community.Once a bustling little hub in the 1950s, where families could hop a street car and enjoy a soda pop at the corner Rexall Drugs store, Alberta Street became overrun with gang activity in the late 1970s.Then, in 1981, a robbery occurred at the beloved Rexall Drugs.The owners closed the doors, switched off the lights to the comforting sign that was a reminder of better days, and the neighborhood fell further into disrepair.
An amazing woman by the name of Roslyn Hill is credited for the slow turn around and revival of Alberta Street.Hill, or the “Queen of Alberta” to some,purchased a building in foreclosure in 1993, and opened Roslyn’s Garden Coffee House.Hill purchased a dozen or so buildings, and recreated artsy and inviting store fronts with plant life, wood and corrugated metal. She rented to community-minded tenants and pushed for more community organizing.Slowly but surely, the citizens took their streets back with efforts like the Streetscape Project, Art Walks, Last Thursday block party and the Alberta Street Fair . Finally, in late 2014, the iconic orange Rexall sign was officially relit.
The Alberta Arts District’s Rexall Drugs store sign was relit in December of 2014, signaling growth and prosperity.
Concordia and nearby Vernon, King, and Sabin neighborhoods are all within a short drive or walk to the Alberta Arts District.The city has enacted a gentrification program throughout the area that has created a blend of races and socioeconomic identities.
Tour this beautiful home in Northeast Portland, listed for sale at 5403 NE 11th Ave. near the Alberta District.
Contact Home Sweet Home Realty: info@hshrealty.net or by phone at (503) 515-2986 https://hshrealty.net/
Peruse the the numerous galleries and chat with local artists and crafters.Stop into the quaint cottage that doubles as Clary Sage Herbarium.Sit down to dine with the kids on an old school bus at Grilled Cheese Grill. Or venture off of Alberta a few blocks to enjoy a pint in an old renovated classroom at McMenamins Kennedy School.There’s no doubt that Alberta is back on themap.
Not far from the action of the Alberta District is this lovely English cottage located near the up and coming 42nd Avenue. Come take a tour at 4535 NE Prescott. Contact Home Sweet Home Realty: info@hshrealty.net or by phone at (503) 515-2986 https://hshrealty.net/
Tour this beautiful home in Northeast, listed for sale at 837 NE Killingsworth St. near the Alberta Arts District.
Contact Home Sweet Home Realty: info@hshrealty.net or by phone at (503) 515-2986 https://hshrealty.net/
Median Home Price: $375,000
Mississippi Avenue / Williams St. – Northeast
Mississippi District has become a North Portland destination, and for good reason.The area has undergone a major renovation in recent years, and now attracts young and trendy professionals with cultured tastes.
At The Meadow everything is made by hand, curated with expertise, and shared with passion. World renowned chefs, rabid foodies and everyday home cooks delight in this Northeast Portland culinary shop. Their Himalayan Salt blocks make an excellent house warming gift.
On Mississippi there is plenty of shopping, with trendy tailor-made garments,books from local Oregon authors, vinyl and music, and coffee snob gadgets.Looking for bitters to make at home, hand-crafted cocktails? The Meadow offers novice and professional chefs a choice of 120 gourmet salts from around the world, 500 artisan chocolate bars, and unique bitters. SunLan Lighting is the oldest single owner business on the street and is run by the quirky and hilarious Kay, the lightbulb lady.
True to its Portland roots, there is a range of eclectic restaurants and bars smattered about. Hungry? Be bold and sample the fried grasshoppers at the delightful Me-Sen Thai Eatery and wash it down with a Tom Yum cocktail. Perk up with a cup of Joe at Fresh Pot, then stop in for live music at Mississippi Studios. Order up a gluten free pie at Mississippi Pizza, and head to the dark saloon esque Atlantis bar in the rear for a delightful Greyhound with fresh pressed grapefruit.
Vegans love the Veggie Pizza with gluten free crust at Mississippi Pizza in Portland, Oregon. (Image courtesy, Avry)
Only about a 1/2 mile away is the North Williams Corridor, home to a major bicycle thoroughfare and an undeniable growth spurt of new construction.The stretch currently sees more than 3,000 cyclists a day, with bikers sometimes out numbering motor vehicles.A popular New Seasons has sprung up, along with crafty bars catering to the local traffic, like Hopworks BikeBar.The ever famous Tasty and Sons serves griddled bacon wrapped dates that attracts foodies of all ages.And after a day well spent, why not treat yourself to a yoga class or massage at the Yoga Shala of Portland?
The location is sprinkled with parks.The homes, mostly an older East Portland style, are in good shape and tidy. And, it is completely accessible, as there is a pedestrian/bicycle bridge that crosses over Hwy I-5, and connects Mississippi Avenue to the Max stop on Interstate Avenue. This means fast and convenient access to Downtown.Not surprisingly, the home prices in this area are rising. You can find Home Sweet Home Realty nestled here in a 1906 Victorian.
Median Home Price: $369,900
The Pearl District / Nob Hill / Alphabet District- Northwest
The swank and stylish Pearl District is nestled in Portland’s northwest corner just north of downtown; it’s hugged by NW Broadway to the east and Hwy 405 on the west. Upscale high rise residential communities cater to professionals, jet-setting empty nesters, and hip young families in this posh neighborhood.In all this chic modernism, theoriginal cobblestone streets remain, and are an interesting juxtaposition to the bit of warehouse and light industrial buildings also found here.
Charming apartments covered in ivy in Portland’s The Pearl District. (Image Courtesy, C. Jill Reed)
Numerous restauranteurs, designers, and artists have opened up shop to cater to the well-to do crowd that roams through.Time and again, The Pearl gets the nod from foodies the world over as having some of the best cuisine that Portland has to offer.Connoisseurs delight with Latin tapas at Oba, explore their palate with Peruvian fare at Adina, and indulge at Irving St. Kitchen with the duck sausage stuffed quail.For a special celebratory evening, stop in to the Painted Lady for dinner ,and stay the night in their guest cottage.
Some Portland landmarks also grace the area like Powell’s City of Books.Powell’s is the largest new and used bookstore in the world, and covers an entire city block.This is just another reason why Portlanders are great conversationalists – they love to read!Portlanders also love their beer, and Deschutes Brewery and Public House is a well-known hot spot located in this part of the city.
The “Go By Streetcar” sign lights up the night in Portland’s The Pearl District. (Image courtesy : Ian Sane)
The street car and the Max zip through the area, and Union Station hems the east end.Visitors and residents can easily join in with cool events like the Portland Bastille Day, the Portland Saturday Market, or take the kids to play in the fountain and artificial waterfalls at Jamison Square.
The historic and desirable Alphabet District sits just North of the Pearl and is home tomany beautifully restored Victorians, plus apartments and other buildings.Many would argue that some of the best shopping in Portland can be found here on NW 23rd and 21st avenues.The Pearl and the Alphabet District are so popular that they even warrant their own glossy magazine, The Pearl.
Median Home Price: $494,250
Hawthorne District / Division St. (Richmond, Sunnyside) – Southeast
Although it’s hard to claim the title of most creative neighborhood in Portland, the Hawthorne District may have it. Tucked between Belmont Street to the south and Division Street to north, the main commercial stretch of Hawthorne is hopping with hipsters and hippies from 5th to 50th Avenue.
Get lost in one of the many vintage clothing and thrift stores on Hawthorne in Portland, Oregon. Image of The Red Light Clothing Exchange
A visit to Hawthorne feels like a stop over to San Francisco’s Haight and Ashbury.In fact, this area was a mecca for the counterculture revolution for the gay community in the late 60s.As far back as the 1800s Hawthorne has had a sensuous history.The Oregon Hospital for the Insane operated here from 1862 – 1883, until the area was converted to community green space.Because of this, the street we now rely on for funky inspiration was known as Asylum Avenue up until 1888, when East Portland residents petitioned to have it changed to Hawthorne Avenue.
Today there are tons of offbeat shops and mysterious second hand stores like the House of Vintage that are filled with curious nooks and crannies where you may even find a mogwai, if your lucky. The Famous Bagdad Theatre and Pub lights up the strip with its retro neon lights and Moorish architecture.The Fresh Pot, which holds the distinction for being one of the first coffee shops in Portland to wholesale Stumptown Coffee, has its original location here.
The famous Bagdad Theatre lights up Hawthorne Boulevard in Portland, Oregon.
There is a Safeway and Fred Meyer flanking the main strip, and many delightful lunch, brunch, and dinner spots in between.Castagna features yellowfoot chanterelles with pork and hop infusion.The Waffle Window was featured on Portlandia, and has a walk up Dutch window serving Liege style sugar waffles.And Harlow is becoming a new favorite for their all gluten free brunch menu.
Health conscious foodies who want delectable grinds with anti-oxidant punch, know that Harlow on Hawthorne never disappoints. Harlow’s packs ’em in at the brunch hour with Gluten Free Biscuits and Gravy (special) and the Bridgetown Hash. Remedy that hang-over with an assortment of crafted smoothies and elixirs like the “WitchDoctor”; It’s full of boosters like wheatgrass, ginger, and echinacea.
Division Street, which sits only a few blocks to the south, was recently dubbed Portland’s “hottest dining destination” by Oregon Live.And for good reason, Division street is where the iconic Pok Pok dishes up their famous Vietnamese chicken wings daily.Dessert lovers know the secret to soft-serve honey ice cream, and its found at at Sunshine Tavern just a few doors down. Lauretta Jean’s is a must do for handmade pies; try the Spiced Pear Streusel, and wash it down with a piping hot espresso from Good Coffee on 48th and Division.
Voted again and again as one of the top, iconic dishes of Portland. Pok Pok’s Vietnamese chicken wings. (Image courtesy, H.L.I.T.)
Not far from the great dining on Division is this remodeled bungalow located at 2735 SE 70th, Portland, Oregon. Contact Home Sweet Home Realty: info@hshrealty.net or by phone at (503) 515-2986 https://hshrealty.net/
Craftsman homes and numerous units of multifamily housing, give assorted options to those in search of the spirited atmosphere here. And, talk of the new Max line coming through soon, will only add to that growth.
Median Home Price: $433,000
Woodstock – Southeast
Is Woodstock Portland’s next hot neighborhood?A question that was recently asked by staff reporter for the Portland Business Journal, Wendy Culverwell, has been on many minds since the announcement of a 3-story New Seasons coming on the scene in Summer of 2015.
While there are still a few generic strip malls along Woodstock Blvd, unique businesses are sprouting up to accommodate the influx of hipsters, young families, and the creative renaissance man that we have come to know and love in Portland.
Nestled down in Southeast Portland, with Southeast Holgate Boulevard to the north and Johnson Creek to the south, the area has great walkability, bike-ability, andan active community. Historically one of the oldest neighborhoods in Portland, Woodstock was named after a Walter Scott novel by the same name, which was the fashionable trend in the late 1800s. Nowadays, active listings are disappearing in almost record time.Promptly enough, residents recently convened in a public discussion to create a well-thought out planning and growth agenda for the neighborhood, called the Woodstock Visioning Project.
The Delta Cafe in Woodstock, Portland, is famous for their Southern comfort food. (Image courtesy, Jason Lander)
Day-tripping into this pocket of Southeast Portland?Woodstock residents would recommend 1st Cup Coffee House for their gluten-free New York style boiled bagels.Or, visit The Delta Cafe, serving up some of Portland’s most legendary Southern comfort food.There’s also Otto’s Sausages that has been featured on Diner’s Drive-Ins and Dives.
The area continues to grow and take shape, and 1st time home buyers are picking up property fast.
When I was in high school, the only time we went to Main Street in Milwaukie was to grab a slice at Pietro’s Pizza. Afterward, we’d sometimes bowl a few games next door at Kellogg Bowl. As an adult, the same area became mostly a shortcut on my way to other places. It was a hop, skip, and a jump to the Sellwood Bridge, or a short trip via McLaughlin Blvd to either I205 or back towards downtown. For most, it has been a not so secret way to beat traffic. But now with all of the improvements to the area, like the waterfront improvement project, the light rail, and not to mention the farmers market. It seems like Main Street Milwaukie and the surrounding area is quickly becoming a destination rather than a shortcut.
Kellogg Bowl in Milwaukie, near Portland, Oregon. (Image courtesy: David Burn)
I am so surprised every time I discover something new about the area. In fact, when I was asked to do an open house on Lava Drive, I thought “where the heck is Lava Drive?” To my surprise, it’s only a short walk from Main Street on the Willamette River. Technically I guess it is more like a half block walk from Main Street across the McLaughlin crosswalk, onto 17th, and then another block to Lava Drive. Either way, who knew there are condos on the Willamette River? The Lava Drive condos and surrounding apartments, homes, and businesses are going to benefit from the waterfront improvement in so many ways. Imagine, coffee at one of the cute coffee spots on Main street, a quick stop at the farmers market, a walk around the new waterfront park then back home. WOW what a life on the Lava Drive!
The Willamette River in Milwaukie, Oregon. (Image courtesy : Jeff Hart)
