Blog - Sean Besso Realty

PDX Neighborhood Spotlight: Northwest/Nob Hill

*Photo by Sean Pavone from Getty Images* *Pro*

Filled with restaurants, boutiques, and historic Victorian homes, Northwest/Nob Hill oozes Old Portland charm. Not only is it a very walkable neighborhood, it is also very close to downtown, Forest Park, and the Pearl District.

About Northwest/Nob Hill
Northwest/Nob Hill is such a densely populated retail and residential neighborhood and you don’t have to walk far for delicious food or fun activities. Whether you want to hike through Macleay Park or enjoy happy hour at a local watering hole, there is something for everyone in this neighborhood. Love to bird watch? Then you’ll definitely enjoy the Chapman Swift Watch. It’s a month-long viewing party at Chapman Elementary school where you can watch thousands of birds migrate through Portland. Unfortunately, the Swift Watch has been cancelled due to COVID-19, but hopefully they will be able to resume this year. As far as housing goes, you’ll find a sweet mixture of everything – historic homes, Victorians, Craftsman-style, Old Portland-style, grand old apartment buildings, and sleek new condominiums. Northwest has an abundance of homes that are in the National Register of Historic Places. The Architectural Heritage Center often puts on walking tours of various neighborhoods and I highly suggest taking one of their walking tours around Northwest Portland.

Macleay Park
One of Portland’s earliest city parks, Macleay Park spans almost 140 acres and is a green oasis close to the city’s core. You’ll find hiking trails, towering Douglas firs and western red cedars, and the infamous Stone House. The Stone House was built in the mid-1930s by workers with federal relief programs to provide a public restroom within the park. After being damaged by a storm and vandalism, park workers partially dismantled the restroom in the 1960s leaving what is now the “Stone House” or “Witch’s Castle”. Park trails connect to Forest Park and Audubon Society of Portland wildlife sanctuaries.

*Photo of The Stone House/Witch’s Castle/Macleay Park Shelter by Anna Calvert / 500 px from Getty Images*

Food/Drink
Caffe Mingo – Warm and welcoming italian restaurant serving the classics with a Northwest touch. Gnocchi is always a good choice 😉 and don’t forget dessert!
Nob Hill Bar & Grill – A low-key tavern specializing in burgers. Delicious sliders (only $5!!!) and be sure to stop in on a Friday to try their delicious clam chowder.
G-Love – Dubbed Portland’s first ever “Reverse Steakhouse”, G-Love offers unique, locally grown produce with proteins playing a supporting role as side dishes. If possible, go for the family style tasting menu so you can try a little bit everything.
Paymaster Lounge – Very laid-back bar with affordable drinks and food. They even have outdoor pool tables to help with social distancing. Their Ginger Hot Toddy is delicious on a rainy day,
Dragonfly Coffee House – Cozy coffee shop on the northeast side of the Alphabet District. Their housemade chai is a must.

Shops/Things to Do
Freakybuttrue Peculiarium – Truly one-of-a-kind art gallery with interactive art and installations. If you love sci-fi, horror, cryptids, and the mysterious, you definitely have to check it out, but maybe leave the kiddos behind.
betsy & iya – Boutique featuring handmade jewelry and curated goods on NW 24th Ave.
Tender Loving Empire – Tender Loving Empire is a local record label, music store, gallery, and arts collective that does pretty much everything. There you’ll find a collection of goods and music from hundreds of independent creators.
Cinema 21 – Specializing in classic, foreign, and art house films, Cinema 21 is a three screen multiplex where you can wine, dine and enjoy a movie in the heart of the Alphabet District.
New Renaissance Bookshop – The oldest metaphysical bookstore in Portland, you can find books, crystals, candles, trinkets, oils and more at New Renaissance.

Market Stats
Over the past few months, Northwest/Nob Hill’s market hasn’t been very competitive. On average, homes in Northwest District sell after 56 days on the market. Last month, the median sales price of a home in Northwest was approximately $585,000 with 2% of homes selling over asking price. Click here for a free home valuation.

References: Wikipedia & TravelPortland.com

10 Things You Should Do to Get Your Home Spring Ready

Nice weather is on its way! Welcome Spring with a little gardening and some spring cleaning.

1. Remove Winter Layers

- Time to swap out your heavy winter bedding for lighter covers and quilts. Consider changing deep-pile rugs for flat-weave or natural-fiber versions for the warmer months.

2. Make Mirrors and Table Lamps Shine

- Remove dust from table lamps with a duster or soft rag and wipe down mirrors with a damp microfiber cloth. Doing this will enhance the light throughout your space.

3. Simplify the Table

- Go through your cupboards and let go of any mismatched or chipped dishes and donate any sets you no longer have love for. Keep a basket of fresh cloth napkins within easy reach of the table to make it more convenient than grabbing paper napkins, and invest in a living centerpiece that will stay fresh and green with little maintenance, such as potted succulent plants.

4. Spring Clean the Kitchen

- Give your kitchen a fresh start this spring by cleanings items and areas normally missed during your day-to-day cleaning. Start with your smaller appliances, clean out grease and grime from your rangehood, clean the backsplash, dust light fixtures, and vacuum those hard to reach places like behind the fridge and under the stove.

5. Clean Slipcovers and Soft Furnishings

- Smaller slipcovers and washable rugs can be washed at home, but drop off larger pieces with the professionals. If you are washing anything at home, be sure to carefully read the washing instructions and err on the side of caution.

6. Dust High Corners and Baseboards

- Use a vacuum attachment or a duster to dust and remove cobwebs from the low and high spots we often miss during routine cleaning.

7. Refresh the Entryway

- With winter gone, it’s nice to give your entryway a refresh. Start by either cleaning or replacing your doormat. Clear out or organize your coat closet or anything you have on hooks. Don’t forget to put out your umbrella holder for our PNW spring showers.

8. Clean Up Patio Furniture

- Winter can take a toll on your outdoor furniture if not stored or covered properly. Be sure to give everything a good scrub before you start using your patio furniture in the warmer months. Wash any washable cushion covers and replace worn-out items if needed.

9. Tune Up Lawn and Garden Tools

- Sharp tools get the job done! Take your lawn mower and clippers in for a sharpening and tune up before you begin work in your garden.

10. Make a Garden Plan

- There is still time to get your garden growing! Sketch out a plan, jot down some ideas for this season’s plants, and pick up some seeds or seedlings. Also consider making changes to the hardscape of your garden. Maybe a new path or new fencing?

Lastly, another great home maintenance tip for this spring would be to inspect your home’s exterior for winter damage and make repairs as needed.

Hope you all have a wonderful Spring Season. Until next month!

Resource: https://www.houzz.com/

8 Ways to Add Value During Your Bathroom Remodel

When remodeling any room in your house, it’s always important to carefully think about where to spend and where to save (unless you are lucky enough to have an endless budget 😉). The following is a list of bathroom upgrades that design experts believe are worth the extra expenses because they still make a significant difference to the look and functionality of your bathroom, all while adding value to your home.

1. Custom Cabinetry

- Custom cabinetry can add so much to a bathroom. Spending a little more on custom cabinetry means perfect fit cabinetry that is completely tailored to fit your needs.

2. Mirrored Cabinet

- This upgrade doesn’t have to be an expensive one. Consider switching out your bathroom mirror for a mirrored cabinet. Mirrored cabinets can either be partially-recessed into the wall or wall-mounted and save a ton of countertop space.

3. Skylight

- Who wouldn’t want natural sunlight streaming in their bathroom? Skylights are one of the most effective upgrades you can make to your bathroom because of the serene spa-like feel they give. If you are installing a skylight to an existing home, be sure to have a builder or contractor to assess for obstructions in the roof space before starting this project.

4. Exhaust Fan

- Mold is no joke in the Pacific Northwest. It’s important to think about upgrading your exhaust fan while you are remodeling to ensure proper air circulation and removal of excess moisture – you wouldn’t want all of your hard work to go to waste because of mold. If noise is a concern, check the labeling and choose an exhaust fan with a lower decibel rating.

5. Drawer Storage

- Upgrading a vanity with cupboard doors to a vanity with drawers is worth the extra outlay because of how much additional and functional storage you get in return. Another plus – drawers are easier to clean because you don’t have to awkwardly reach to the back of cupboards.

6. Integrated Electrical Outlets

- This is a big one! When electrical outlets are installed in drawers or cabinets, not only do they hide everyday cords from electronic toothbrushes and rechargeable shavers, they also clear your countertops of mess and clutter.

7. Shower Niche

- This might be my favorite bathroom remodel upgrade. Get rid of your shower shelves and opt for a shower niche instead. Giving off a more sophisticated and streamlined look, shower niches provide a neat and practical spot to store your shampoo, soap, etc. and they don’t encroach on your standing space.

8. Underfloor Heating

- With these last few weeks of winter chill in the air, stepping onto a warm bathroom floor sounds like a dream! This upgrade is definitely recommended to anyone remodeling an ensuite bathroom.

PDX Neighborhood Spotlight: Alberta Arts District

Love live music, local art, and good food? If you haven’t already, you have to check out the Alberta Arts District.

About Alberta Arts District
Did you know that Alberta Arts District is named after Princess Alberta? Princess Alberta was the sixth child and fourth daughter of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Alberta Arts District connects the Concordia, King, and Vernon neighborhoods in the Northeast quadrant of Portland. It’s lined with art galleries, restaurants, clothing boutiques and gift shops. The main street in Alberta Arts District is Alberta Street, which held its first art walk in 1997 – now known as “Last Thursday”.

Last Thursday
This lively street fair attracts independent artists, performers, local bands, troupes of acrobats, buskers, makers and more to celebrate their art on Northeast Alberta Street. Happening on the last Thursday of each month, this arts and culture experience shouldn’t be missed. This month’s Last Thursday is January 27th, 2022 from 6pm – 9pm.

Food/Drink
Tin Shed – One of Portland’s most popular (and most dog-friendly) brunch spots, Tin Shed was also featured on the Food Network Channel’s “Comfort and Soul”. I recommend the Everything Naughty or Everything Nice platters depending on how you are feeling that day. 😉
The Bye and Bye – Known for their vegan comfort food, The Bye and Bye also has an array of delicious cocktails.
Urdaneta – Due to rising COVID-19 cases, Urdaneta is currently only doing takeout, but an excellent option if you are craving tapas from the comfort of your own home.
Expatriate – The American Standard burger plate is everything you want in a backyard burger and more.
Bollywood Theater – Like it’s counterpart on Division St., Bollywood Theater serves up authentic Indian street food like Kati Rolls, Paneer, and Paratha.

Shops
ECOVIBE – ECOVIBE has everything from plants and planters to home decor and apparel.
Collage – A well-stocked art supply store that has everything you need for your creative urges.
Demimonde – A boutique featuring trendy jewelry made by Portland designers, plus select vintage items.
Grasshopper – Grasshopper is a children’s emporium specializing in organic & American-made apparel, non-toxic toys, books & decor.

Market Stats
Because it’s such a sought after neighborhood, the Alberta Arts District market is very competitive. Last month, the average sale price of a home in Alberta Arts District is approximately $758,000 with 2.9% of homes selling over asking price. Click here for a free home valuation.

References: Wikipedia & TravelPortland.com

10 Things You Should Do to Get Your Home Winter Ready

Happy first day of winter! Get your home winter ready with this list of 10 to-dos.

1. Prevent Pipes from Freezing

- Disconnect hoses from outside faucets and place an insulated cover over the faucet. Keep the heat set no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit when you are away.

2. Check Your Smoke & CO Detectors

- Nothing new, but you should always check your detectors monthly and replace batteries when necessary. This is especially important to do during the winter since we keep windows closed and use fireplaces more often.

3. Protect Entryway Flooring

- Avoid damaging your flooring by adding protective mats inside and outside your home’s entrance. It might be a good idea to provide a waterproof bin for wet shoes and boots.

4. Remove Debris from Gutters

- Don’t let water back up in your gutters. Remove any debris to prevent leaks, ice dams, and damage to your roof and gutters.

5. Check Your Emergency Supply Stash

- Better safe than sorry! Make sure you have flashlights, batteries, fresh bottled waters, shelf stable food etc. in case of any emergencies or power outages.

6. Reverse Ceiling Fans

- Running the blades in a clockwise position during the colder months can push heated air down. This home maintenance task makes rooms with high ceilings more comfortable.

7. Install Storm Windows & Doors

- This will help reduce heat loss during the winter months, especially homes with single-paned windows. If you plan on purchasing storm windows and doors, take accurate measurements beforehand.

8. Clean Window Weep Holes

- Window weep holes are designed to drain rainwater that can collect in your window frames’ bottom channel. Sometimes bugs, dust, and debris can clog the weep holes which can cause water to fill up the channels and spill over into your home. If you notice your window weep holes are clogged, poke a wire hanger into the hole and use compressed air to clean it out.

9. Check Outdoor Lighting

- Make sure all of your outdoor lights are functioning correctly, especially any motion sensor lights you might have. This will help prevent any slips or falls on ice covered driveways and pathways.

10. Check for Air Leaks

- Check for air leaks around windows and doors and check for cracks in caulking or weatherstripping. Also, replace caulk and weatherstripping if necessary.

I hope you all have a wonderful and safe holiday season! Until next month!

PDX Neighborhood Spotlight: Goose Hollow

I’m back with another PDX Neighborhood Spotlight! This month I will be highlighting Goose Hollow in SW Portland.

About Goose Hollow
Goose Hollow acquired its distinctive name through early residents’ practice of letting their geese roam free in Tanner Creek Gulch and near Tanner Creek Canyon – a wooded ravine in the Tualatin Mountains. Tanner Creek was was buried 50 ft. underground over a century ago and Tanner Creek Gulch was infilled. The only remaining part of the hollow is Tanner Creek Canyon where the Vista Bridge spans. The neighborhood is adjacent to Downtown Portland, Arlington Heights, the Pearl District, Hillsdale, Northwest District, and Washington Park. The geese aren’t running free anymore, but you’ll still find a beautiful mixture of historic homes and modern condos.

Providence Park
Home of soccer teams the Portland Timbers and the Portland Thorns FC, Providence Park became a complete stadium in 1926, but it’s name wasn’t always Providence Park. It started out as Multnomah Field and became Multnomah Stadium once the stadium was built. Since then, Providence Park has gone by Civic Stadium, PGE Park, and most recently Jeld-Wen Field. Portland is a huge soccer city and it’s all thanks to the Timbers and the Thorns. Did you know that the Portland Timbers have sold out every single game at Providence Park since moving to MLS in 2011 and the Portland Thorns FC set a single-game National Women’s Soccer League attendance record in August 2019? Pretty impressive!

Food/Drink
The Cheerful Bullpen – If you aren’t able to snag tickets to a soccer game, The Cheerful Bullpen is a great place to enjoy cheap wings, tasty beer, and watch the game alongside other die hard fans.
The Leaky Roof – Long-established restaurant with a delicious brunch menu. I’d go for the chicken and waffles with an irish coffee.
Kinara Thai – Currently open for takeout and delivery only, Kinara Thai offers comforting thai food such as blue crab wontons, panang curry, and drunken noodles.
Coco Donuts – If you haven’t had a mochi donut yet, you must check out Coco Donuts! Their mochi matcha and mochi oreo donuts are to die for.
Vtopia – Vegan? Vtopia, Portland’s only entirely dairy-free cheese shop, has you covered. Due to COVID-19, they can only accommodate pickup and delivery, but Vtopia is the perfect vegan option for your holiday cheese boards.

*Photo from COURTESY ATOMAZUL/SHUTTERSTOCK*

Shops
Portland Gear – Your one-stop shop for all your Rose City-themed goods.
Possession – Know a huge soccer fan? Possession has jerseys, wall art, coffee table books, and more.
Hammer & Vine – Beautiful plant store that offers drop-in classes where they walk you through planting your own terrarium, plant craft, or custom planting project.
The Civic Taproom & Bottle Shop – The perfect place to peruse towering refrigerators filled with your next favorite beer.

Market Stats
Right now, the median sales price of a home in the Goose Hollow area is approximately $361,500 with most listed homes seeing 50+ days on the market. Most of the Goose Hollow listings are typically condos. Click here for a free home valuation.

References: Wikipedia & TravelPortland.com

PDX Neighborhood Spotlight: Foster-Powell

*Photo by photoquest7 from Getty Image*s

For this month’s PDX Neighborhood Spotlight, I’ll be highlighting Foster-Powell.

About Foster-Powell
Full of character, Foster-Powell is a neighborhood in SE Portland. The triangular neighborhood is bounded by three major transit arteries: Powell Boulevard, Foster Road, and 82nd Avenue. Foster-Powell is known for being very bike and pedestrian friendly and has been dubbed with the nickname “FoPo”. It’s believed that the neighborhood started around the same time as the construction of the Portland Streetcar in the 1890s.

Parks
Foster-Powell is home to three parks: Laurelwood Park, Kern Park, and Essex Park. Laurelwood Park was recently renovated and is largely complete. Kern Park’s amenities include a playground area, a softball field, and a basketball court.

*Laurelwood Park Master Plan from portland.gov/parks*

Food/Drink
Bar Carlo – Delicious Mexican-American brunch. Try the MIGAS and the Chilaquiles Verde.
An Xuyen Bakery – Perfect Pan-Asian bakery for steamed buns, bahn mi-style sandwiches, and macarons.
Bar Maven – A Mediterranean gastro-pub great for Happy Hour! The grilled kebabs and sumac sweet potato fries are a must!
Portland Mercado – With more than 16 businesses, this public market is sure to have something for everyone.
Starday Tavern – They call themselves “The Most OKest Bar” which really means that you feel like a regular once you walk in. Dog friendly, tasty pub food, and movie/game nights… what more could you want?!

*Photo from Travel Portland – Christine Dong for Portland in Color*

Shops
Foster Outdoor – Local outdoor shop for all your outdoor equipment needs.
Glasshaus Gardens – Popular indoor plant shop that also carries pottery and gifts. Their knowledge of plants and plant care is insane!
Hammer & Jacks – An independent mother-owned toy store with books and toys for all ages and interests.
Bread & Roses Market – Locally owned organic grocery store. Quality produce and a very friendly staff!

Market Stats
Right now, the median sales price of a home in the Foster-Powell area is approximately $450,000 with over 58.3% of homes selling over asking price. Click here for a free home valuation.

References: Wikipedia & TravelPortland.com

10 Things You Should Do to Get Your Home Autumn Ready

Happy Fall Ya’ll! Get your home autumn ready with this list of 10 to-dos.

1. Clean Out Your Gutters

- An old plastic spatula comes in handy when it’s gutter cleaning time. It doesn’t scratch up the gutter and you can cut the spatula to fit gutter contours. Grime wipes right off the spatula too, making cleanup a breeze.

2. Check Your Smoke & CO Detectors

- With heaters running and fireplaces roaring, fall is a great time to make sure your smoke and CO detectors are working. Be sure to check the batteries and expiration dates. Smoke detectors are typically good for 10 years and CO detectors last for about six years.

3. Replace the Furnace Filters

- Changing your furnace filter is one the simplest tasks on this list. If it’s been awhile since you’ve changed it, be sure to replace it with a new one before kicking on the heater this fall.

4. Schedule Chimney & Furnace Maintenance

- Speaking of furnaces, depending on the last time it was cleaned, you’ll want to schedule a chimney cleaning. Make sure your fireplace and heating system are clean, safe and ready to go by having a pro look at them now.

5. Remove Window A/C Units

- If you used window a/c units this summer, which A LOT of us have, you’ll want to remove and store them. If you choose to keep them up, make sure to pick up some insulating covers to minimize winter heat loss.

6. Fertilize the Lawn

- Fall is a great time to fertilize your lawn one last time. With the epic heat waves we had this summer, your lawn could use some fertilizer and the long anticipated PNW rainy season.

7. Add Weatherstripping to Windows & Doors in Need

- Newer double-paned windows won’t necessarily need weatherstripping, but it is a good idea for older windows to prevent leaks and retain heat. This goes for your doors as well. You don’t want tiny pests seeking solace from the autumn rain in your home.

8. Maintain the Washer & Dryer

- It’s a good idea to thoroughly clean out your dryer vents often, but you’ll want to make sure that your washer hoses are in good shape as well. Cracked hoses can cause leaks and costly repairs. Clean dryer vents and hoses will help your machines work more efficiently and reduce the risk of fire – which is always a good thing.

9. Cozy Up with Warm Layers

- Now’s the time to start thinking about changing out your lighter-weight bedding with some flannel sheets and fluffy duvets. Bring warmth to your home by adding a few throw blankets around the house or even swap out the area rug for something thicker. Not only will slight changes like this make your home cozy, it can also cut down on your energy bills.

10. Get Your Wardrobe Fall Ready

- Fall is a great opportunity to sort through your wardrobe, donate things you no longer wear, and get your colder weather pieces repaired or dry cleaned. Gather your summer clothes and put them in an out-of-the-way spot so your fall wardrobe can be front and center.

By prepping your home for the colder months ahead of us, you’ll prevent breakdowns, save money and keep your home looking brand spanking new! Now add a few cozy touches here and there, relax in your favorite chair, and enjoy the comforts of your fall ready home.

PDX Neighborhood Spotlight: Montavilla

*Photo by 4kodiak from Getty Image*s *Signature*

For this month’s PDX Neighborhood Spotlight, I’ll be highlighting Montavilla in SE Portland.

About Montavilla
Montavilla is a neighborhood in the Northeast & Southeast sections of Portland, Oregon. Montavilla started as a small farming community named Mount Tabor Village. After the completion of the Morrison Bridge in 1887, East Portland became more accessible and the streetcar began to service the area. The Mount Tabor Village streetcar destination sign was abbreviated to “Mt. Ta. Villa” and the name stuck! The P5 marker, a Baseline Mile markers from the 1850’s for the original Baseline Road, (now SE Stark Street, see my blog post “Surveying Portland, One Marker at a Time”) is at the corner of 78th and Stark.

Parks
Montavilla is home to Montavilla Park, a 9.46 acre park established in 1921. The park includes a Portland Timbers sponsored futsal field, dedicated in August 2014. Montavilla also includes Berrydale Park, Harrison Park, and Montavilla Community Center. Vestal Community Garden is located near Vestal school.

*Photo by Patricia Sanders of Village Portland*

Montavilla Farmers Market & Montavilla Street Fair
Montavilla Farmers Market is open year round on Sunday’s from 10am – 2pm at 7700 SE Stark St. You can find more information about the farmers market here. Every year, the neighborhood hosts “Montavilla Street Fair” (prior to COVID restrictions) and normally includes live music, 120+ vendors, a children’s area, and a plethora of places to eat, drink, and play. Unfortunately, the street fair has been postponed the this year and last, but here’s hoping for 2022!

Food/Drink
Bipartisan Cafe – Community based cafe where you can get a hot drink and a homemade pie.
Ya Hala – One of Portland’s most beloved Middle Eastern restaurants, Ya Hala is a must try.
Hungry Heart Bakery – Bustling family friendly bakery serving up delicious brunch and coffee.
Vintage Cocktail Lounge – Laidback watering hole featuring contemporary cocktails and outdoor seating. Try the Vieux Carre or ask for a custom cocktail!
Roscoe’s – Lowkey tavern with a pool table. The hush puppies, chicken and waffles, and gumbo are a favorite.

Shops
Cactus Records & Vintage – Eclectic shop filled with vintage clothing, vinyls, jewelry, and artwork.
Union Rose – Popular boutique for locally designed clothing, accessories, and gifts.
Beanstalk – Perfect place for the kiddos! You can shop in-store or online for childern’s quality resale items.
Wink Vintage – Fairly priced vintage shop with an incredibly friendly staff.

Market Stats
Right now, the median sales price of a home in Montavilla is approximately $500,000 with over 75.7% of homes selling over asking price. It’s a hot market, but the Montavilla neighborhood is well worth it! Click here for a free home valuation.

References: Wikipedia & TravelPortland.com

PDX Neighborhood Spotlight: Sellwood-Moreland

Photo by Laura Kneedler from Getty Images

This PDX Neighborhood Spotlight, let’s talk about Sellwood-Moreland!

About Sellwood-Moreland
Sellwood-Moreland is a neighborhood on a bluff overlooking the Willamette River in Southeast Portland, Oregon. The neighborhood is linked to Southwest Portland across the Willamette by the beautiful Sellwood Bridge, Portland’s southernmost bridge. Sellwood was originally an independent city and was incorporated by the Oregon Legislative Assembly on February 25th, 1889. It was annexed by the City of Portland in 1893.

Parks
There are many beautiful parks and natural areas in Sellwood-Moreland, including Sellwood Park, Westmoreland Park, Springwater Corridor Trail, and the must-see Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden.
Sellwood Park features basketball and horseshoes and for a tranquil view of Downtown Portland, visit the riverfront park by the Sellwood Bridge. Sellwood-Moreland is also home to the small, but mighty Oaks Amusement Park, one of the oldest continually operating amusement parks in the country.

Photo by JPL Designs from Getty Images

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
This highly manicured 9 acre garden is almost completely surrounded by Crystal Springs Lake and features an assortment of rhododendrons and azaleas. It’s the perfect place to take the family or to enjoy a nice romantic stroll with a loved one. During the first weekend in April, they host an “Early Show” with several hundred trusses of early-blooming rhododendrons. An even larger display can be seen on Mother’s Day.

Food/Drink
Papa Haydn – A Portland brunch favorite!
Jade Bistro & Patisserie – Asian-fusion teahouse featuring delicious french pastries. Try the lemongrass chicken and be sure to take home a pastry for later!
Bible Club – “Speakeasy” style bar with a great atmosphere and outdoor sitting area.
PDX Sliders – Right next door to Bible Club is PDX Sliders. When it’s voted “Best Burger in Portland”, you have to give it a try! Silver Julep Mobile Bar is also at PDX Sliders so you can sip a tasty cocktail at the same time.

Shops
Sellwood Union – A wonderful consignment store featuring a lot of vintage one-of-a-kind pieces.
Collage – Popular art supply store where you can stock up on all of your crafting materials.
Fuschia – Lovely boutique where you can find great gifts for everyone.
CoCo and Toulouse – Also offers gifts, paper goods, soaps, perfumes, and unique clothing items.

Market Stats
Right now, the average price of a home in Sellwood-Moreland is approximately $700,000 with over 57% of homes selling over asking price. It’s a hot market, but the Sellwood-Moreland neighborhood is well worth it! Click here for a free home valuation.

References: Wikipedia & TravelPortland.com

PDX Neighborhood Spotlight: Northwest/Nob Hill

10 Things You Should Do to Get Your Home Spring Ready

8 Ways to Add Value During Your Bathroom Remodel

PDX Neighborhood Spotlight: Alberta Arts District

10 Things You Should Do to Get Your Home Winter Ready

PDX Neighborhood Spotlight: Goose Hollow

PDX Neighborhood Spotlight: Foster-Powell

10 Things You Should Do to Get Your Home Autumn Ready

PDX Neighborhood Spotlight: Montavilla

PDX Neighborhood Spotlight: Sellwood-Moreland

About Sean Besso

Client Reviews

Get in Touch