Vista Hills

This neighborhood continues to be very much sought after, even in today’s market. Many of Vista Hill’s ranch homes are completely intact and well cared for, and though suburban, have great access to the city and commutes. The lots are large, and it’s streets are wide and quiet. This home on Hawthorne is a good example of the solid 1950’s construction on a half acre lot with plenty of areas for gardening. While modest from the curb, the home holds over 3,600 square feet. Built in a time where parents were not as concerned about the proximity of the bedrooms, there is a generous master on the main which includes a separate study. The laundry is also located on this level. The other three bedrooms are adjacent to a family room which also has daylight ranch access to the swimming pool and the surrounding yard. $614,900

Mt. Tabor Modern

Perfect example of a modern 2008 home that fits in beautifully with it’s more established neighbors on the east side of Mt. Tabor. Built with sustainable construction practices, this four bedroom home has a layout suitable for many different lifestyles. It was obviously designed with a lot of care. While three bedrooms are on the second level, the fourth bedroom below grade could easily work as a teenage hangout or a guest room.  The finishes are modern, yet warm and have a sense of  whimsy. Two decks invite you to enjoy the Mt. Hood views.

Pricy for the square footage, but very appealing. $795,000

Laurelhurst English

This home is by far the most generously sized and graceful English style home I have ever viewed in Portland. Facing Laurelhurst Park, the home has an imposing street appeal. I was struck immediately on entering by the large, sunlit living room which also faces the park. Around every corner, I was pleasantly surprised. The owners chose to improve the kitchen with a tasteful mix of modern touches- stainless steel subway tile on the backsplash and onyx countertops meshed well with the tin metal ceiling.

The layout on the main includes a intimate and private study.

All the baths, and there are two full and two half baths, have been updated with an eye towards respect for the original 1920’s period yet with modern materials- always understated and of fine quality. There are four (hard to find) bedrooms upstairs, with one of the children’s bedrooms featuring the most charming little sink and miniature bathtub. Currently, one of the larger bedrooms is being used as a family/media room, though the basement also offers an area for a rousing game of ping pong.

This home is well taken care of with numerous updates and would make a fine home close to many east side urban delights. $825,000

Laurelhurst Fixer

This Laurelhurst home has a tremendous curb appeal on one of the more quiet areas in the neighborhood. The home is being sold as part of an estate after 70 years of ownership- usually an “as is” proposition unless there is a roof or sewer line issue. The interior requires quite a lot of work, with the bathrooms and kitchen having seen better days many days ago- however, if purchased at the right price the home could prove to be a good future investment. $479,000

Burlingame SW Portland

This cute as a bug bungalow in the Burlingame area of SW Portland has made very good use of it’s square footage. This starter home’s main floor has both a front living room as well as a small area off the kitchen that could be a media area or a good place to keep an eye on small children while one cooks dinner. The upstairs has three bedrooms together, suitable for a smaller children. The 24 x 14 garage was converted to a shop/studio, so currently the parking lies under a carport- but who do you want to have the space? You or the car?  $349,900

SW Portland’s Broadmoor

The area in Raleigh Hills known as Broadmoor is a very small area which only makes the few homes that become available all the more coveted. Virtually all the homes here were built by a builder known as Baumann, Baumann’s home are stately ranches on generous lots and are known for their timeless layouts, and sturdy craftsmanship. There are very few infill homes in this area, and it is largely intact from the 1950’s, most of the homes having fastidiously maintained landscaping and golf ready lawns. This new listing is a Baumann classic and offers a great room off the kitchen that both enjoy views of the large private backyard. Three bedrooms are on the main and the lower 700 square feet are currently being used as a studio, but would very likely be a family or play area for the next owners. A great home that has stood the test of time. $850,000

Portland Heights

Not your usual Portland Heights area home, this super contemporary style was designed by Skylab Architecture- the same designers as the cutting edge Doug Fir Lounge and Departure Restaurant and Lounge. The home features a main floor of 2200 square feet- all of it in kitchen, dining and living spaces. Living spaces, plural, as there are at least three distinct areas that could be repurposed depending on the lifestyle of the owner. The master suite occupies the top 1000 square feet with a lovely soaking tub that enjoys the city view. The bottom/entry floor holds what could be two bedrooms or a bedroom/office with another full bath. The home has a 3,000 bottle “wine bungalow” for those people that can actually manage to not drink everything as it comes into the house and an elevator to help one navigate between the floors. $2,865,384

Greenhills of Portland

The exclusive Greenhills area of Portland opened a 2006 home that not only has a superlative address, but a generous size of 5,000 square feet. It puts one in mind of a European villa, especially with the lavender in bloom and the lush landscaping surrounding the home.  The ceilings on the two main floors soar to at least 15 feet and the corresponding windows let in light, while the home’s setting and landscaping offer privacy. The third level would make a perfect nanny’s quarters or play room.  $1,795,000

Arlington Heights

One of my favorite homes on this week’s tour was this little 1937 Tudor home in Arlington Heights. Tudors are not usually my favorite style as they can sometimes feel dark with their smaller windows, and sometimes their interiors can feel a little “cut up”. This home defied my expectations as the current owners have brought in a lot of recessed lighting as well as having ample natural light. Virtually everywhere I looked there were thoughtful and tasteful updates. Starting with the kitchen with it’s lovely backsplash, pot filler next to the gourmet gas range and lovely light countertops. This is not one of those faux kitchens with take out pizza boxes in the fridge.

The floors on the main are wide plank white oak, the living room is ample enough for two seating arrangements, and off the kitchen and dining room lies a 50 foot mahogany deck overlooking a treed area that is perfect for morning coffee and entertaining. Three bedrooms share the upstairs with an updated bath, and then a downstairs with a second living area, small kitchen and another bath that could serve as a family room, office space and/or guest suite. A lot packed into it’s 2097 square feet. Well priced at $539,000

Portland Heights

Perched over the city with sweeping views, this premiere listing is perfect for the purchaser that wants a penthouse feel with the privacy of a detached home. Architect Bob Thompson, designer of the Nike campus and Fox Tower completed this home in 2001. A sexy, fortress-like stainless steel front door contrasts gorgeously with vintage Portland street cobblestones at the entrance. You almost can’t imagine how stunning the 220 degree city view is to experience. An exterior lap pool appears to be hovering on the edge of the city. No expense was spared in the finishes throughout the 7,500 square feet: clear maple floors, Arclinea custom cabinetry, extensive carrara marble, hydronic floor heat, and integrated sound impart to this home a feeling closer to LA than Portland. The architect even designed the stainless steel hinged doors on the homes gas fireplaces. $4,850,000

The Gregory: Pearl District

The Gregory was at the forefront of the condominium market in the Pearl District, and there is nothing else like it in terms of style. The Gregory wasn’t just some slapdash construction, looking as if it might have actually been built during the Art Deco era rather than 2001. This unit is one of the largest available right now at almost 2500 square feet. Most of the square footage is used in the main living area, which looks onto a 500+ foot terrace that wraps around two sides of the building with a west hills view. The units owner, a designer- has updated all the finishes which compete evenly with any recently finished condo in the city, nicely mixing beautiful finished surfaces with a semi-industrial feel. Two prime parking spaces. Could be a bit high at $1,470,000

Arlington Heights

I’m sure we’ve all been in homes that have felt much bigger- or much smaller than the actual square footage. Of course, it’s all about how the space is used, and this house is a prime example of a great use of space. Arlington Heights is the neighborhood that shares Hoyt Arboretum, and many homes here lack even a modicum of yard space. Here we have a yard. The living room overlooks the yard, a quite ample dining room that opens to a very nicely remodeled kitchen. There are three nice sized bedrooms on the second floor that share a bath, but there’s a powder room on the main and another full bath off the family room in the finished basement. All that, and a tip top curb appeal on a very quiet street in the Ainsworth, Lincoln High School hub. $650,000

Raleigh Hills Mid Century 2

No Link-Home is Pending

This home is owned by designers and it really knocks your socks off when you get inside. Two decks off the super hip and vaulted main living space overlook the pool. Travertine marble, dark wood floors, and speakers and sound built in on the main floor make this the place to gather. With over 4,000 square feet, there’s a huge family room downstairs that opens by sliders to the pool area. One can imagine older kids hanging out down here in the summer, or a great media room for all ages. A few rooms are still left to be done, but the seller’s have conveniently gathered reasonable bids for the kitchen and master bath. $620,000

Raleigh Hills Mid Century

I walked through a 7,000,000 home today, and this home still comes out as one of my favorites of the newer listings in the Portland real estate market. Why? It has so many great elements of an original condition ranch, in a great neighborhood and entry level price. Be prepared when you look at the pictures though- they are some of the most unfortunate photos I have ever seen. Behind the horrific photos- see the original fireplaces, the super hip room divider, original light fixtures and a great entertaining living room as well as a small family area off the kitchen and a small but very nice back yard. I didn’t pull up carpet, but I would hope to find hardwoods underneath. This home has all the makings of an Atomic Ranch. Let me show it to you, so you can see in person. $375,000

Raleigh Park

Buy this mid century home and almost assure yourself a spot in Atomic Ranch magazine. Architect designed, it is sited perfectly on almost an acre lot of beautiful grounds, very naturally landscaped with a lovely creek bubbling through the lower part of the property. The home itself is almost 100% intact from it’s 1957 birthday, and has a northwest regional, and seems to be an homage to architect John Yeon. The home oozes with potential, and one would hope the new owner will be respectful to the homes heritage while making it more livable. I envision vaulting the ceiling and allowing much more light in, and updating the radiant oil heating system for a start. A very special home that I would love to show to you. $675,000

Super Contemporary

This home is one of the most unusual homes I have ever seenin Portland. Built by local architect Richard Appleman in 1972, this Arlington Heights home has a decidedly Asian influence. While over 4,600 square feet, all the living spaces are highly compartmentalized. The entry area which is typically a small foyer, in this case runs along the length of the front of the home with a wide marble floor. It seems well suited for hanging large art pieces. The kitchen is one of the more open spaces and employs high contrast between white and black surfaces, opening out to an entertaining deck with built in barbeque area. The home divides itself between three levels, with the downstairs holding a large room that would work well as a media area. All walls are painted in high gloss enamel. I imagine the new owners to be entertainers with guests dressed in slinky outfits holding martinis. $950,000

Arlington Heights

With Hoyt Arboretum right in the neighborhood, and just a short ride into the city one can hike up hills in the morning and dine well downtown in the evening. This home feels and looks like a solid as a rock Bauman built home, and offers that great suburban ranch feel, yet with mountain views. It sits on a dead end street and offers one level living with 3 bedrooms and two baths. For the square footage, at just under 2200, the price seems a bit steep. $775,000

Buckman

Just steps from the heart of “restaurant row” at 28th and E. Burnside, this new project on Pine Street won a Merit Award from AIA in 2009. Designed by Works Partnership, which brought us the bSide6 buidling on east Burnside, the building stands in stark contrast to some of it’s early 20th century neighbors. The “Tandem” houses are two units, mirror images of each other, built using sustainable wood products, concrete and Earth Advantage appliances. Each has three levels, with a surprising open feeling between the first floor and the second through the use of the open metal staircase and vertical open birch planks. The bathrooms are somewhat whimsical in their use of materials and colors. The home’s biggest advantage is the location, steps away from shopping, restaurants and the hub of city living. $729,000

Alameda

If you want to live a modern lifestyle in a vintage neighborhood, this could be the home for you. Thoroughly updated with modern finishes, one would never guess from the curb what lies within: dark stained floors contrast with crisp white walls, light cabinetry and imaginative lighting fixtures. Although there is yard space both front and back, that is a blank slate at this time and the home could benefit immensely from a gardeners touch. With this square footage of 2616 and the three bedrooms split between the upstairs and main, it seems highly unlikely to be sold at the current asking price of $769,000

Irvington Classic

This home has a lot going for it in terms of pure liveability- there is actually a family room on the main floor, many times lacking in this era of home, as part of the back yard was sacrificed to obtain this addition which is partly open to the kitchen. Many rooms are generously sized including the living room and master bedroom. There are two full baths upstairs including a spa like master bathroom. Four bedrooms are all on the second floor. The basement has finished areas, including a surprisingly sunny room currently being used as an office. Part of the old garage has been converted to an outdoor covered dining and barbeque area. Great living indoors and out on a nice street in Irvington. $799,950

Council Crest Sundeleaf

Nestled at the end of a cul de sac in the neighborhood of Council Crest  lies one of the few residences designed by architect Richard Sundeleaf. While later in his career Sundeleaf was part of the Modernist movement, this home, built in 1940 has very much an English lodge  influence. Typical of this era, the exterior is a mix of brick and wood shake and takes advantage of city and mountain views. 8286 square feet with four bedrooms and 4.5 baths. Listed at $3,195,000

Eliot Tower

OK, so you want to live in the city, but you also want over 4,000 square feet and plenty of parking, a real dining room, family room and three bedrooms- each with it’s own bath. Perfect, this condo in the Eliot lives like a traditional home, has four parking spaces, and killer north and northeast views of Mt. St Helens through its floor to ceiling windows. Try getting that in Raleigh Hills. The Eliot Tower is one of the most attractive condos in downtown and is situated right across from the Portland Art Museum. $2,700,000

Lair Hill

This small complex of 13 condo units was built by Don Tankersley who works with “some of the most persnickety architects and designers in Portland.” This diminutive unit of under 500 square feet lives much bigger than it’s space and has the highest end finishes I’ve ever seen in one of this size. With a walkscore of 91, and on the edge of downtown, it’s a perfect fit for a student or professor at PSU or for someone that would like to live downtown AND have a parking space. The HOA’s are also under $100.  $160,000

Overlook

Neat as a pin and cute as a button and located in the heart of the hip neighborhood of Overlook, this home is move in ready. Every inch of the home’s space has been utilized from the two bedrooms upstairs to the family room in the lower level. Updates are period sensitive, such as the baths with the hex tile, and the kitchen with it’s subway, albeit with a decorator spin. Built-ins and refinished hardwood floors give this home real polish. Easy access to Overlook Park and the MAX. $438,000

Blueberry Hill

Blueberry Hill is a true estate home and is currently owned by one of the Schnitzers, the prominent Portland family known for Schnitzer Steel and their local philanthropic work. Sitting on six acres, the home is over 10,000 square feet, has six full baths and three half baths, has a pool, tennis court and separate guest house (no room in the house?) All joking aside, the home was a pleasure to tour- the owners have imparted their taste on the decor which imparting a sense of home and whimsy, no matter the grand size of the home. Many interior windows feature views of strategically placed sculptures about the grounds. The entry way a stunning, round, with a gorgeous staircase circling upwards. All the doorways surrounding the entry are large and curved. Another staircase leads from the kitchen to a level that probably held the servants quarters. One really wishes it could be purchased with the extensive art collection which includes a Chihuly chandelier over the dining room table. A gorgeous study, which is also outfitted as a media room has a graceful mezzanine with more built ins for your library above. Another charming feature is a large powder room near the front door- it features a long built in table with a mirror- perfect for nose powdering, and a small alcove with a door that holds a telephone for those private calls. A rare opportunity to own one of the finer homes of Portland in the Greenhills neighborhood. $7,850,000

Summit Drive

Continuing the tour of the west hills, this Roscoe Hemenway colonial has many of the features one expects from this fine architect: a stately  feel, a great floor plan with an understanding of how people use their homes, and an openness to the outdoors- this one through multiple decks to the rear of the home. There are many places to spread out- the great room on the kitchen has a warming fireplace. A small paneled study has a cozy fireplace as well and feels like the perfect reading spot. The living room is a wonderful size for entertaining, and the finished downstairs holds a bright family room as well as the sweetest little studio spot- the current owner is a quilter and the space holds the most gorgeous fabric swatches. While there is ample decking off the back of the home, there is no lawn- but hey, my kids rarely used the lawn I bought my first house for. Seems a tad high at $895,000 Link to photos.

Portland Heights Short Sale

This home sits right across from Ainsworth Elementary which is a plus or minus, depending on whether a chorus of children’s voices at recess is music to your ears. The entry space is a bit awkward, and the home has quite a rustic feel in it’s finishes- the interior perhaps reflects the falling into hard times of the seller, but I see a lot of possibility for bringing out the charm with some TLC this fine 1906 home deserves. It has a rare four bedrooms upstairs, all respectably sized, but no master bath. Perhaps a master suite can be contrived with three bedrooms? Another rare feature an actual back yard. Sadly, it is a short sale, but this could be an opportunity if one has the time and guts for the process. $700,000

Portland Heights MCM

This mid century modern opportunity in Portland Heights has about the best views possible of the city. While the pictures online do not do this 1956 home justice, it has mercifully been spared any 1970’s and 80’s remodeling with much of the flat paneled surfaces and 1950’s glazing left intact and the exterior featuring an asian design influence.. The kitchen and baths have been updated, but tastefully and in keeping with the period for the most part. The floor plan is not for everyone, probably better suited to older children as the master is on the main and two other bedrooms are on the lower level. Call me if you’d like to see it- I would love to take another look myself. $650,000

Multnomah Village Farmhouse

8305 SW 30th Avenue

It seems like most buyers I take out now are looking for a community to live in and a town center to be able to walk to- and a move-in ready home- and something they can fall in love with. This listing of mine hits the trifecta with the easy walk to Multnomah Village, a home that’s been remodeled yet with all it’s vintage charm intact. And did I mention it’s on an almost quarter acre lot? Plenty of rooms to hang out in, with a sunporch, den and an upstairs play/media area with the always appreciated three bedrooms together upstairs. The dining room and living room share one great space together reflecting in the glow of the CVF (clear vertical fir) original floors. Imagine having a fire here in the winters while enjoying your dinner.  The home has a garage that has been converted on one side to a shop and a studio on the other. There is off street parking, but if you must, go ahead and convert back to a garage. The level yard is used for play, gardening and a sport court. $399,950 View more pictures.

Hawthorne

It’s so nice to see prices become more affordable, and though not cheap, this home has much to offer. The downstairs floor plan is open from the front to the back windows, so the home glows with natural light. Floors are lovely, and the kitchen is updated, but just as importantly, insulation, new windows and a newer furnace with A/C make the home comfortable. A small room downstairs could serve as a study or bedroom, with three more up. The main floor has a full bath so the one bath upstairs that is so typical doesn’t have to take on all the morning rush. No garage, but plenty of off street parking, a partially finished basement and cute backyard. I’d love to help you make an offer on this home and understand the owners are ready to move on. $459,000

Alberta Arts

A wonderful balance has been struck between modern and historic in this turn of the century Craftsman. Gorgeous box beam ceilings in the dining room meld beautifully with the tastefully executed modern touches in the kitchen. Speaking of which, this will no doubt be the gathering point for the household- that and the lovely backyard with it’s paved and grassy areas. Three bedrooms upstairs make it a nice family layout, and there looks to be room to expand the square footage both in the attic and the basement, which is good because the living room is pretty tiny and one has to hide that big screen TV someplace. The exterior has a lovely paint palette and the siding is in beautiful condition on both the home and that two car garage. Ornamental barge rafters are a pleasure to see intact after 100 years. Just a block north of all the action on Alberta. $499,000

Raleigh Hills

Just behind Jesuit lies a lovely neighborhood with many fine mid-century homes ranging in value from entry level to well over a million dollars. This home fits into the former category, all one level with three bedrooms- one with a master and a great room economically placed within 1600 sq ft. The great room with it’s updated kitchen enjoys a view of a small private backyard.  $349,000

Bridlemile

In a cul-de-sac of newer homes off a Dosch road, lies this large 1980’s home on over a third of an acre. Though often I’m not a fan of this era, this home was made by an exceptional builder and the feeling of quality is noticeable throughout it’s 3,400 sq ft. There are three family areas- a formal living room, a great room off the kitchen and  another large family/media room upstairs. The ceilings are high enough to feel substantial, but without the huge vaulted areas that often seem like a waste of space. The kitchen is truly set up for cooking with a great range and double ovens. Best of all, it looks onto the substantial back yard with it’s large slate patio, a fire pit complete with glass embers and a barbeque area. In the summer, this could easily be the fourth family room. $670,000

Alphabet District

This is an unusual work/live space that actually works- there are more than a few live/work spaces that unfortunately have the home’s kitchen in the work space. This town home on NW Thurman, has two entrances- one for the business at over 900 sq ft, and another for the residence. The business has an ADA compliant bathroom. With three floors, one can work on the lower level and take your personal elevator up to the upper level kitchen in seconds. From the kitchen, one can view the spacious great room and it’s hard to imagine you are just a block or two from St. Honore Bakery- it feels like you could be in any newer suburban home. The town homes have CC&R’s but there is no HOA fee- you own the real estate the home sits on. A two car garage can be entered from a private alley on the backside of the lot. $1,100,000

Hillsdale

This is the builders own architect designed home, and definitely my favorite of the tour this week. I am quite particular about newer homes, but this architect designed home exceeded my expectations. The main living level is actually on the upper floor, and once you are there you will see why. Commanding westerly valley views run the length of the upstairs and can also be viewed from the balcony. The great room floor plan was large and graceful and the kitchen finishes were lovely with maple cabinetry. There is 2100 sq ft just on this floor. The master also lives on this level with radiant heated floors in the bath. Downstairs holds two more bedrooms and a family room/media room. Ceilings are high on both floors, and the lower floors have distinctive large wood windows. While some people may opt for another bedroom, or perhaps more yard, this house has a great feeling and is a home one can be proud of. Motivated sellers at $949,000

Kings Heights

Kings Heights lies on the hill overlooking the Alphabet District, and holds a wide range of styles. This traditional home has an updated kitchen and an inviting sunroom with views on the main and three bedrooms up, including a master bath. The downstairs holds a spacious family room and office. There is actually some fairly level yard space, quite the valuable real estate in this neighborhood. It may be a little high at $1,075,000

Affordable Pearl

This is the perfect little pad in the pearl for a student, first time home buyer or someone that wants a little pied-a-terre in Portland. In the Riverstone Condominiums, this 617 square foot condo looks onto a lovely treed courtyard from it’s own balcony. It’s perfectly appointed with a gas range, washer/dryer, deeded parking space and secure entry. The well lit living room also has a cozy fireplace. Just across the street from Jamieson Park, it’s a good value at $259,000

Restaurant Row

The Sunrose Condominiums are a late arrival to the condo scene, but they couldn’t have picked a hipper neighborhood on the east side. Continuing the recent tradition in contemporary architecture, there are 32 flats and most come with a much needed parking space and storage. A very few have access to their own private 500 square foot patios. Finishes are modest but nice, with upgrades available for Caesarstone kitchen counters and islands, and a washer/dryer in every unit. Best of all, you will not go hungry with access to some great east side restaurants including Navarre and Ken’s Artisan Pizza. If you must cook, there’s a Whole Foods across the street. $250,000-$510,000

Portland Heights

You couldn’t find a prettier street in Portland Heights where this home lives, or better curbside appeal than this elegant Tudor style home. The living room with it’s open beamed vaulted ceiling is quite inviting, as well as the updated kitchen and baths. A charming brick patio and garden would be a favorite summer dinner spot. The floor plan won’t suit everyone with just two bedrooms up, but aren’t we supposed to be downsizing? $675,000

Raleigh Park

This home is begging for someone to do something great with it. Built in the 1940’s, it has great space with over 1500 sq ft on the main with those sought after three bedrooms together and a total of three full baths. The downstairs has a wonderful family room and bonus with some good light in this daylight ranch. The rooms are rather cut up, the hardwoods are thrashed, and the home needs updating- but it’s also on over half an acre on a sunny lot. Any gardeners out there? Also, it’s on one of the quieter streets in the Raleigh Park neighborhood and close to the park- not that you need one with this yard. Listed somewhat high. Shall we negotiate a better price? $459,000

Multnomah Village

The location is the driving force for this home, where you can walk into Multnomah Village and all it’s interesting shops including the wonderful Annie Blooms bookstore. Perfect for a starter home with pergo floors, three bedrooms and two full baths. A little road noise, but a lot of space for the money. $299,000

Dunthorpe Estate

This 1920’s estate on one of Dunthorpe’s best streets feels as much like a castle as a home. With four fireplaces and 8,000 plus square feet the only thing that feels more expansive is the lot- which is four acres. Truly unique, and set in the exclusive Dunthorpe neighborhood, this home is currently one of the premier listings in Portland. $8,750,000

Greenhills

Every now and then I see a home that really feels like an estate. This home fits that bill. In an exclusive area known as Greenhills, between Portland Heights and Sylvan Heights, sits this lovely traditional on almost three acres. It’s still amazing to me that one can own three acres of land and be in downtown Portland in 10-15 minutes. Though the facade is traditional, the current owners have put in extremely tasteful yet updated finishes in the kitchen, and bathrooms creating a gentle meld between old and new. One particular area that will appeal to many is the kitchen which mixes stainless and marble countertops, and opens to a great room which currently holds a media center and pool table. Through virtually every door and window one appreciates the private views of lawn and graceful trees. With over 5,000 sq. ft. the home itself feels substantial without being overwhelming or in poor taste. Perhaps a bit overpriced $2,975,000

Cedar Hills

This is a good opportunity in Cedar Hills, a neighborhood with proximity to downtown, high-tech and Nike. This home is definitely a cosmetic fixer with it’s worn hardwoods and not the best vintage kitchen and baths. Apparently the owner put their money in the non-sexy items- new roof, copper plumbing and furnace with A/C.  It does has many of the things I look for in a home: a) location:quiet street with sidewalks, good curbside appeal, and close to a park, b) floor plan: the sought after three bedrooms upstairs, with a master bathroom- plus a great room with the kitchen open to the living room  c) family room: (downstairs) d. yard and deck: offering access to the outdoors on two levels. Just reduced to $324,900 and even better if they would entertain a lower offer…

Mt. Vernon Village

Just listed in my office, this condo is livable yet affordable. I can really see some young designers for Nike easily living here until their family gets too big. Feeling more like a home than a condo, and over 1000 sq ft, this one level unit can definitely use those same designers eye for updating, but it would be easy to take advantage of the current light filled footprint and the HOA’s are affordable at $245 a month. Well priced at $150,000

Colonial Heights

Just south of Hawthorne, this home is a great entry into the neighborhood. Though it’s scale is small, it has about everything a smaller family could need- including off street parking and a garage that’s been converted to a studio. The basement could give some more living space if properly finished but the second bath is already there. A lovely little garden awaits out back and Grand Central bread is a minute away. $391,000

Inner Beauty

This Buckman home sits well behaved like it’s other neighbors on the street, but I chose to see it based on the interior photographs. It really opens up what one can do, decor wise, in a vintage home. Nothing has been altered so much to keep it from going traditional, it has most of the original fir floors- but the main feels loft like and the owner has apparently done some amazing travels, amassing collectibles from the middle east and beyond. It’s been featured in Oregon Home Magazine. Take a look by clicking on the photo. Priced high at $765,000

Classic Portland in Irvington

This home has what most Portlanders look for in a vintage home- an open feel. We just can’t help it- people want a great room feeling today no matter what the era of the home (though I will not give up my separate dining room). Filled with light, this home could go fast- three bedrooms together on the second floor- and a rare master bath as well as a hall bath. The attic actually has great headroom and is staged with a cute twin bed on either side- just the right amount of distance for quarelling children. Though NE 21st is a somewhat busy street, it is lined with other even more stately homes. $679,000

Garden Bliss

This  Irvington area home has been on several garden tours and must be difficult for the sellers to leave. Who will keep the slugs off the hostas? Who will properly divide the bulbs? The curbside appeal just couldn’t be cuter and the house, though small has three bedrooms and is sunny with a remodeled kitchen and the basement acting as a family room. Someone will fall in love with this garden- and house. $499,000

Mid-Century in Raleigh Park

I listed this home less than a week ago, and I’m really excited about it. The home was built in 1947 and has both traditional and mid-century qualities, so one can take the decor and remodeling of this home in either direction. One mid-century piece is the generous eaves that give a lovely line to the home but also have protected the wide lap siding these many years from the wet and provide shade during the summers. The architect designed home sits back snugly on the lot and belies the 3400 sq ft that lie within, another hallmark on mid-century design, as well as it’s many windows and doors to allow the outside in. The lot is over 11,000 sq ft and gives the rear of the home a great deal of privacy, but also room for raised beds, a sport court, deck and play structure.

The interior layout allows for privacy between family members with bedrooms both up and down, three full baths, and both living room and family room.

The kitchen is light and bright with large windows and skylight illuminating the gleaming granite counters. A kitchen nook with a built in bench is perfect for casual dining and a formal dining room is just beyond the kitchen for more intimate gatherings.

This prized, close in neighborhood is close to New Seasons (a must), a neighborhood park, library, elementary school, post office- and in 20 minutes you can be sitting at the bar at Clyde Commons with a cocktail in your hand if the parking gods are with you. $559,950