7 Reasons to Love Spring In and Around Lake Oswego

Posted on March 17, 2024 by lovelakeoswego

March 19 marks the arrival of Spring this year and here in Lake Oswego, that means we have lots to look forward to. The season is a worthy buildup to my favorite season here in Lake Oswego—summer—and here are a few reasons why.

CHERRY BLOSSOMS. Here in Lake Oswego you’ll find them in Sundeleaf Plaza, Millennium Plaza Park and lining many of our commercial and neighborhood streets. If you want to experience a natural high, head over to the Japanese American Historical Plaza at Tom McCall Waterfront Park where 0ne hundred perfectly aligned cherry blossom trees are sure to WOW you when in full bloom. They usually start putting on their show mid-March and last two to three weeks. Before heading up there from Lake Oswego, you can get a status report at Japanese American Museum of Oregon. You can also catch them at the Portland Japanese Garden and find updates on their website.

SPRING FLOWERS. The color of spring starts popping up everywhere thanks to the flowers planted by the city’s maintenance department in public spaces, not to mention by green-thumb neighbors who remember to plant and dig up bulbs all at the right times (unfortunately I can’t say I’m one of them). Watch for daffodils, tulips and hellebore. For the grandest display, head down to Woodburn for the annual Tulip Festival which opens March 22.  

SUMMER TEASERS. With a weekend in the 70s and sunshine galore, Spring has a way of reminding us that the best is yet to come! That summer preview may be sandwiched between periods of rain, but that glimpse of outdoor barbecues and walking with your shades on is just what we need to get us through to the next season.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME. The bad news is we lost an hour of sleep on March 10 because we need to move our clocks forward one hour. The good news is that we start gaining an extra hour of sunlight to enjoy at the end of our workday, leading up to our glorious summer nights when sunset can be as late as 9:03 p.m. in late June and early July. We need to enjoy it while we can. The Oregon Senate is voting on whether to permanently move the state to standard time, ending twice-yearly time changes. If you’re a daylight savings fan like me, you can take hope in the fact that the current bill would take effect only if California and Washington approve similar measures.

WHALE WATCHING. According to Oregon Whale Watch “Researchers estimate that 18,000+ gray whales now live in the eastern north Pacific area. About 30 whales per hour migrate past the Oregon coast during the peak southbound migration, which in Oregon is between Saturday, March 23 and Sunday, March 31. Check their website for real-time sightings and suggestions for best places to watch.

SPRING HIKES. Tryon Creek borders Lake Oswego and the Middle Creek, Cedar and Old Main Trail is a two-mile loop known for wildflowers and accessibility. And if you’re lucky, you might spot a barred owl (mornings or evenings are best). If you want to head further out, you can shoot for the Catherin Creek Arch Loop Trail, (about 70 miles away) a family-friendly hike that boasts more than 90 species of wildflowers that bloom from March through May.

HOME BUYING SEASON. Historically spring is a busy season for home buying and early indications are that may prove to be the case this year as we are receiving calls from potential buyers and know of listings on the horizon. If you’re in the market, be sure to give me a call at 503.939.9801 or email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com and let’s talk. I’d be more than happy to sit down with you and discuss current market conditions and how to navigate them to achieve your real estate goals.

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A Guide to Lake Oswego Easements

Posted on March 10, 2024 by lovelakeoswego
Springbrook Easement is one of 20 easements around Oswego Lake

Lake access is important to a lot of people looking to move to Lake Oswego and buying a home with deeded access to one of the 20 easements on the lake is one of the more affordable ways to enjoy the lake without living on it.

Not all easements are created equal which is why I’ve put together a list of all their amenities and fees here. When looking at homes in Lake Oswego, be sure to check which easements (if any) a particular home has rights to. Some have rights to as many as four, in which case you’d want to look at the different amenities and fees to determine which one might be the best choice.

I also recommend that buyers contact the easement they are considering and find out how long the waitlist is for amenities like a boat slip or a canoe rack. Sometimes those lists can be very long with a very slow turnover rate so you want to know that going in.

In addition to the fees you’ll find below, easement members must also pay Lake Corporation fees each year. For 2024 they are $213/Swim Only; $1462/Powerboat; $1233/Shared Powerboat. These fees go towards maintaining the water quality of the lake so we can all enjoy it.

All Lake Oswego residents can enjoy the Lake Oswego Swim Park located at 250 Ridgeway Road and open from July 1 through August 31. Residents within the original Lake Grove School District boundary have lake privileges at the Lake Grove Swim Park, 3800 Lakeview Blvd. which is usually open starting the first weekend after school’s out through the weekend before school starts.

You can find more information on the Lake Corporation website. And if you have any questions, just give me or my daughter, Riley a call. We’d love to make sure you find a home that enables you to enjoy the lake if that’s what is important to you.

Kevin: 503.939.9801

Riley: 971.322.6205

ALDER POINT. 16848 Alder Circle.

One-Time Initiation Fee: $2,750

Annual Membership $450

Annual Boat Slip $200

Annual Kayak/SUP Rack Fee $20

Annual Paddle Boat Rack Fee $20

Boat Slips 6

Canoe Racks” 12

Paddle Board Racks: 12

Restroom, Electricity, Water. Great lake view, including for 4th of July fireworks. Large lush lawn area with picnic table, lawn chairs and tables. Swim dock separate from the boaters’ dock. Kayak launch ramp on swim dock. Separate storage building for life jackets, paddles and supplies.

BLUE HERON. 3215 South Shore Blvd.

One-Time Initiation Fee: $1,000

Annual Membership $175

Annual Boat Slip $400

Annual Canoe/Kayak Rack Rental $100

Annual Paddleboard Rack Rental $75

Boat Slips: 24

Canoe Racks 6

Paddle Board Racks:

Restroom, Electricity

BRYANT PARK. 18108 Pioneer Court

One-Time Initiation Fee $650

Boat Slip No additional fee

Boat Slips 6

FOREST HILLS. 1310 North Shore Road

One-Time Initiation Fee: $3,500

Annual Membership $750

Boat Slip $2,500

Annual Kayak/Canoe Rack Fee $450

Annual SUP Rack Fee $450

Annual Lockers $300

Boat Slips 20

Canoe Racks 11

Paddle Board Racks: 9

Restroom, Electricity, 15 Lockers, WiFi

GOODIN. 3050 Lakeview Blvd.

One-Time Initiation Fee: $3,700

Annual Membership $325

Annual Boat Slip $500

Annual Boat Slip Wait List $25 (currently 44 members are on the list)

Annual Canoe Rack Fee $125 (currently 73 members are on the list)

Annual Multi-Use Rack Fee $75

Boat Slips 6

Canoe Racks” 12

Paddle Board Racks: 12

Restroom, Water. Sunny location with panoramic view of lake, large picnic area with deck and tables, grassy play area with play structure, propane/charcoal BBQ, storage building for life jackets and paddles. View of 4th of July fireworks.

LAKEVIEW RECREATION CLUB. 3951 South Shore Blvd.

One-Time Initiation Fee: $1,000

Annual Membership $100

Annual Boat Slip $250

Kayak/SUP Rack Fee $25

Annual Paddle Boat Rack Fee $15

Boat Slips 16

Canoe Racks 18

Paddle Board Racks 25

Restroom, Electricity

LAKEWOOD BAY COMMUNITY CLUB. 140 Cabana Pointe Rd.

One-Time Initiation Fee: $500

Annual Family Membership $405

Annual Empty Nester Membership $305

Annual Boat Slip $750

Kayak Rack Fee $125

Annual Paddle Boat Rack Fee $125

Boat Slips 14

Kayak Racks 17

Canoe Racks 8

Paddle Board Racks 23

Restroom, Electricity

LAKEWOOD YACHT CLUB. 300 Ridgeway Road

One-Time Initiation Fee: $200

Annual Powerboat Membership $325

Annual Swim-only Membership $325

Annual Canoe Rack Fee: $40

Boat Slips 12

Canoe Racks 18

Porta Potty, Electricity

MAPLE CIRCLE. 16901 Maple Circle.

One-Time Initiation Fee: $1,000

Annual Membership $250

Annual Canoe/Kayak Rack Fee: $20

Canoe/SUP Racks 18

Restrooms, Shower, Electricity, Storage, Picnic tables, benches and chairs, low-level launch site two inches above lake level.

NORTH LAKE CLUB EASEMENT. 635 North Shore Rd.

One-Time Initiation Fee: $1,500

Annual Membership $800

Annual Boat Slip $400

Annual Canoe/Kayak Rack Fee $50

Annual SUP Rack Fee $25

Boat Slips 6

Canoe Racks 4

Porta Potty, Electricity

OSWEGO LAKE VILLAS. 1335 Lakefront Drive. https://oswegolakevillas.blogspot.com/

One-Time Initiation Fee: $3,500

Annual Membership $325

Annual Boat Slip $600

Annual Canoe/Kayak Rack Fee $100

Annual SUP Rack Fee $50

Boat Slips 7

Canoe Racks 30

Restroom, Electricity

OSWEGO SHORE ESTATES. 15865 Oswego Shore Court

Fees are determined by members at their semiannual meetings.

Boat Slips 4

Canoe Rack 1

Electricity

PALISADES PARK COMMUNITY CLUB. 2041 Cedar Court. https://palisadespark.weebly.com/

One-Time Initiation Fee: $2,500

Annual Membership $225

Annual Boat Slip $500 for boat up to 22’

Annual Canoe Rack Fee $100

Annual SUP Rack Fee $50

Boat Slips 8

Canoe Racks 36

No restrooms or electricity

SOUTH SHORE GLEN. 1409 Terrace Drive

One-Time Initiation Fee: $500

Annual Membership $275

Annual Boat Slip $775

Boat Slips 7

Canoe Racks 6

No restrooms or electricity

SOUTHVIEW CLUB. 886 Lake Shore Road and 1113 Lake Shore Road

One-Time Initiation Fee: $3,000

Boat Slips 3

Canoe Racks 6

Restroom, Electricity

SPRINGBROOK RECREATION. 2720 Summit Drive  

One-Time Initiation Fee: $3,500

Annual Sole Powerboat Slip Membership $750

Annual Shared Powerboat Slip Membership $375

Annual Non-Powerboat Rack Membership $350

Annual Swim-Only Membership $250

Boat Slips 5

Canoe Racks multiple

Restroom, Electricity, Swimming dock, lawn, BBQ, picnic tables and gazebo.

SUMMIT COURT. 2380 Summit Drive.

One-Time Initiation Fee: $3,000

Annual Membership Dues $500

One-Time Boat Slip $2,500

Boat Slips 2

No Restroom or Electricity

UPLANDS. 1880 North Shore Road.

One-Time Initiation Fee: $1,500

Annual Membership $450

Annual Boat Slip $750

Annual Kayak/SUP Rack Fee $150

Boat Slips 10 (22 on waitlist)

Racks  74 (2 on waitlist_

Porta Potty, No Electricity

VILLAGE ON THE LAKE. 1565 Bay View Lane..

One-Time Initiation Fee: $1,500

Annual Non-Powerboat Membership $350

Annual Boat Slip $350

Initial Boat Slip Fee: $1,500

Annual Canoe/SUP Rack Fee $200

Boat Slips 25

Racks  42

Restroom, Electricity, Community canoe and kayak, slide, diving board and water trampoline in enclosed swim area, tables, chairs and 2 BBQs, freshwater shower, separate men’s and women’s restrooms with changing area.

WOODSIDE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION. 4260 Woodside Circle.

One-Time Initiation Fee: None

Annual Boat Slip None

Boat Slips: 21

Electricity, No Restroom

To read more about Lake Oswego easements, read one of my earlier blogs. And if you’d like to tour this 5 bedroom, 4 bath Monogram new construction home we have listed with deeded rights to four easements, give one of us a call.

Kevin Costello 503.939.9801

Riley Costello 971.322.6205

Subscribe to this blog to stay up-to-date on all there is to know about living in and loving Lake Oswego. Click on the “Sign me up” button in the top right-hand column.

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Where to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day In and Around Lake Oswego

Posted on March 3, 2024 by lovelakeoswego

As an official Irish citizen (I gained my citizenship about two years ago!) I thought it my duty to let you in on where you can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in and around Lake Oswego.

As Irish luck would have it, you don’t have to travel far to get in the spirit. The Dullahan Irish Restaurant and Pub is making a weekend of celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with tents, music and events starting Friday, March 15 and running through Sunday, March 17. 352 B Avenue.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL. The Dullahan Irish Restaurant and Pub is making a long weekend of celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with tents, music and events starting Friday, March 15 and running through Sunday, March 17. 352 B Avenue.

If you want to get a head start on the festivities you can try:

7th ANNUAL SHAMROCK CRUISE on Sunday, March 10 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Boards at 3:30 p.m. Board the Portland Spirit for a three-hour cruise on the Willamette with music and dance of Ireland. Suitable for all ages. Tickets: $50/Advance General Admission, $58 at the door; $30/Advance Childrens’ Tickets ages 12-17; $38 at the door; $15/Advance Children ages 4-11, $23/Door; Ages 0-3 Free.

WHISKEY TASTING AND ST. PADDY’S CRAFTS on Thursday, March 14 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Enjoy a fun-filled evening of tasting different whiskeys from Distillery 291 while getting crafty with St. Paddy’s Day decorations. Press Release Coffee + Food, 1401 SW Naito Parkway, Portland $30.

Come St. Patrick’s Day weekend, you have some decisions to make because there are lots of things going on in addition to our homegrown festival.

IRELAND VS. USA AMATEUR BOXING on Friday, March 15 with doors opening at 5:00 and fights commencing at 7:00 p.m. at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. This evening is part of Kells Portland Irish Festival, bringing a match-up between some of the finest Irish and American boxers. Tickets are $35 general admission.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION AT KENNEDY SCHOOL all weekend long. Enjoy live music and entertainment as well as multiple days of food and drink specials, including McMenamins own Irish Stout and Devils Bit Whiskey (goes on sale on Sunday, March 17). 5736 ME 33rd, Portland. 503.249.3981. All the McMenamin locations will be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with special menu items like Irish Fries Are Smiling, Irish Stout Ice Cream Float and MacSleyne Irish Stew so pick the location nearest you.

PADDY’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION March 16-17 at Paddy’s Bar & Grill, 65 SW Yamhill Street featuring live Irish music, bagpipers, Irish Dancers, Irish food specials, Guinness, Kilbeggan Irish Whisky and more. Cost: $25-$75.

KELLS PORTLAND IRISH FESTIVAL on March 15-17 at three different locations: Kells Brewery, Kells Irish Pub and Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Check out the full schedule so you know where to be and when. Saturday is Family Day filled with live music, face painting, Irish wolfhounds and traditional Irish dancing.

PUB CRAWLS. There are lots to choose from but here are a few to consider: Generally you purchase a ticket that gets you access to select venues and drink specials.

Kiss Me, I’m Irish! Portland St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl on March 15 – 17

The Official Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl on Saturday, March 16

Portland Rose City LepreCon on Saturday, March 16

St. Patrick’s Day Block Party and Pub Crawl on March 16 and 17

ST. PATRICK’S DAY WEEKEND FLIGHTS AND BITES on March 16-March 17 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 18748 NE Laughlin Road in Yamhill. If wine is more your celebration drink of choice than beer or whisky, then check out Saffron Fields Vineyard’s Seasonal Bites and Flights experience. $40 for a wine flight consisting of three wines paired with three bites.

SHAMROCK RUN on Sunday, March 17 beginning at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, 98 SW Naito Parkway. Portland’s longest running tradition features multiple distances ranging from the Doernbecher Leprechaun Lap 1K for kids 10 and under to the half-marathon. Celebrate at the “Finish Line Festival” with a green beer garden and live music.  

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE on Sunday, March 17 beginning at 1:00 p.m. at Beverly Cleary School, 1915 NE 33rd Avenue. Great family event to include in your festivities.

MURRAY IRISH DANCE on Sunday, March 17 at 3:00 p.m. at Sherwood Center for the Arts, 22689 SW Pine Street in Sherwood. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Portland’s top Irish dance performance troupe, accompanied by live Irish music and song. Be ready for lots of toe tappaing, foot stomping and hand-clapping. Tickets are $5.

CELTIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARTY for all ages on Sunday, March 17 with doors opening at 6:00 p.m., event at 7:00 p.m. at McMenamins Kennedy School Theater, 5736 NE 33rd Avenue. This multi-media production promises to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family with rousing Irish jigs and reels, dazzling LED lights, Irish dance, soaring stilt walkers, and more! Experience the world’s only light-up orchestra! Tickets are $20 for general admission.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY CONCERT WITH KEVIN BURKE AND SPECIAL GUESTS NUALA KENNEDY & EAMON O’LEARY on Sunday, March 17, doors open at 7:00 p.m., show at 8:00 p.m. at Alberta Rose Theatre, 3000 NE Alberta Street. Enjoy Irish fiddle legend Kevin Burke along with musicians and songwriters Nuala Kennedy and Eamon O’Leary whose music ranges from ancient Irish tradition to reflections on the present day. Tickets are $25 in advance; $30 at the door.

BULLWINKLE’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY AFTER DARK on Sunday, March 17 beginning at 6:00 p.m. at Bullwinkle’s, 2911 Town Center Loop in Wilsonville. Finish the day off with a round of fun with unlimited bowling, go karts, lazer tag, mini golf, bumper boats and more. Tickets are $45.

If you want the luck of the Irish on your side in your house-buying or selling journey, give me a call at 503.939.9801 or email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com. I’d love to help!

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Here’s What’s Happening in Lake Oswego in March

Posted on February 25, 2024 by lovelakeoswego

A FEW GOOD MEN. Aaron Sorkin’s searing courtroom drama gets played out on the Lakewood Theater stage starting March 1 and running through April 7. Tickets are $40/Adults; $37/Seniors and $25/Students. 368 S. State Street.

LAKE OSWEGO READS BOOK GIVEAWAY. Receive a free copy of this year’s book selection, Honor by Thrity Umrigar by bringing your Lake Oswego library card or number to the library on Saturday, March 2 beginning at 11:00 a.m. Books will be distributed through the parking lot as well as walk-up service. Please do not line up beforehand. There will also be 3-book and audiobook copies through the library’s Overdrive Advantage account for those who are unable to get a book at the giveaway. For questions, contact Nancy Niland nniland@lakeoswego.city(link sends e-mail)

FAMILY DAY AT OSWEGO HERITAGE HOUSE. The Oswego Heritage House invites you and your family to visit on Saturday, March 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for fun activities and history. This month’s theme is INDUSTRY with an exhibit that chronicles how people in early Oswego worked. For more information, visit www.oswegoheritage.org. 398 10th Street.

SWINGIN’ SOCK HOP. This year’s Small Tall Ball takes you back to the fabulous 50s so get out your poodle skirts, leather jackets and dancing shoes. The dance includes dinner, DJ, dancing and commemorative photos. Tickets are $32/person for residents; $48/person for non-residents for ages 3 and up. Saturday, March 2 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Christ Church Parish. 1060 Chandler Road.

LAKE OSWEGO READS 2024 AUTHOR TICKET GIVEAWAY. Hear Honor author, Thrity Umrigar speak on her book on Thursday, April 25 at Lakeridge High School Auditorium at 7:00 p.m. by picking up tickets (limit of two per person) at this giveaway. A LINCC library card is required. The library opens at 10:00 a.m.; the ticket giveaway will begin at 11:00 a.m. inside the library and end once all tickets have been distributed. For more information, please email Nancy Niland at nniland@lakeoswego.city(link sends e-mail)(link sends e-mail). Saturday, March 9, 706 Fourth Street.

PINTS FROM THE PAST. This popular program returns on Tuesday, March 12 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Learning history was never so much fun or delicious! (Topic still to come). Admission is free and no ticket is required (though food and drink purchases are encouraged to offset the cost to the Lake Theater). Doors open at 6:30, and the presentation begins at 7:00. The Lake Theater & Café is located at 106 North State Street in Lake Oswego. For more information, contact Carissa Barrett at cmbarrett@lakeoswego.city(link sends e-mail)(link sends e-mail) or 503-534-4237.

BINGO WITH POISON WATERS. Support the Lakewood Center for the Arts while treating yourself to the one-of-a-kind entertainment and dynamic presence that Poison Waters provides. Tickets for this fundraiser are $55 ($20 tax-deductible) and include dinner, entertainment, bingo and one beverage. Wednesday, March 13 from 5:30 pm. to 8:30 p.m. Lower level side door stage, 368 S. State Street.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL. The Dullahan Irish Restaurant and Pub is making a long weekend of celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with tents, music and events starting Friday, March 15 and running through Sunday, March 17. 352 B Avenue.

HOP AT THE HUNT. This fun family event returns to the LO Hunt Club just in time for Easter. Hope the Bunny arrives by LO fire truck at 9:45 a.m. on Saturday, March 30 with the egg hunt starting at 10:00 a.m. Recommended for children up to age 10. For more information go to the Lake Oswego Chamber website. 2725 Iron Mountain Boulevard.

Stay in the know about what to do in Lake Oswego by subscribing to this blog. Click the “Sign me up” button and receive weekly updates to your inbox.

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Protecting our canopy while protecting our safety in Lake Oswego

Posted on February 18, 2024 by lovelakeoswego

“When the root is deep, there is no need to fear the storm.”  (African proverb)

During last month’s climate event with winds that were capped at 65-80 mph, many Lake Oswegans questioned the wisdom of that proverb.

With reports of more than 100 trees falling on both public and private land, residents are looking at the trees that our town takes pride in, a little differently. Should we?

The main thing residents need to remember, according to Logan Collier of Bartlett Tree Experts, is that it’s still a relatively small population of trees that did fail. “It’s easy to focus on everything that went wrong,” he explains, “but if you look around, there are still a vast majority of trees still standing.”

Still, there are proactive things residents can do. “Take a breath,” Collier says, “and don’t make any tree decisions based on fear.” Instead he recommends that residents have their trees inspected by a certified arborist, preferably one with a tree risk assessment qualification.

Collier explains that most tree assessments are done considering normal weather conditions, not extreme events like we just saw. Arborists look for things like a change in the lean of the tree or if there’s crackling or bundling of the soil at the base of the tree. Pruning can help increase a tree’s wind resilience if it’s done proactively. Research shows it’s best to reduce the longest branches on the upper third of a Douglas Fir, for example. That’s where the most wind is going to make things happen and create the most leverage.

Another thing residents can do to make their trees healthier and better equipped to deal with storms is to increase their root growth by creating a more fungal based ecosystem around their trunk. By removing grass three times the diameter of the tree’s trunk away from the tree and replacing with mulch, residents give the soil and their tree added nutrients, reduce water evaporation and soil erosion and keep roots at an ideal temperature. Just be sure the mulch is around the tree, not up against it.

While trees are one of our best defenses against the effects of climate change, they also can be victims of climate change as well. Although Douglas Firs have adapted well to our climate, we have been experiencing hotter and drier spells, so residents need to be watering their trees in the summer. Aim for a longer duration at a slow speed so the water has a chance to really saturate the soil.

Despite all the precautions, even healthy trees can fall victim to winds like the ones we saw last month. But cutting them all down isn’t the answer, either. “If there is anything that will help to increase failure in trees it is to start removing them,” Collier explains. “That creates more of a wind tunneling effect that increases the speed of winds which can be even more destructive.”

We have about a dozen Douglas Firs staking claim in our front yard and Collier confirmed the truth of the saying that there is strength in numbers when it comes to trees. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, grouping trees together affords them a degree of mutual protection, root stability and reduction of wind velocity. So if residents have a loner in their yard, they might want to consider giving it some company.

It seems we have to learn to live in our new normal and realize we can’t just take our trees for granted. As mighty as they may look, they need to be maintained and cared for so they can keep providing all the benefits they provide us from curbing climate change by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to improving our mental health. Protecting our canopy and protecting our safety cannot be an either/or question. We need to resolve how we can do both.

Thinking of moving in or out of Lake Oswego? Let us help you. My daughter Riley and I offer you the best in experience, service and insider market knowledge. We’d be happy to discuss what your next move is and how we can help make that happen!

Kevin Costello – kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com 503.939.9801

Riley Costello -riley.costello@cascadehassonsir.com  971.322.6205

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Lake Oswego Housing Market Update

Posted on February 11, 2024 by lovelakeoswego

The Lake Oswego housing market is starting to thaw. Just as the ice melted from last month’s storm, the freeze on homebuying and selling is also giving way to more activity.

Just in the last month alone, my daughter and I have been involved in sales that featured an offer that was over asking and one listing that sold in one day. And we are working with buyers who either have to move or have become acclimated to the new interest rate range, with sights on refinancing down the road.

Inventory still remains lower but sellers who want to move their homes still need to position themselves strategically. That means….

  1. Pricing strategically. It’s important to work with a hyperlocal Realtor who can do a comparable market analysis, looking at things like location, condition of the home, certain desired amenities like main floor primary and lake easements, and when other homes sold. Comparable homes that sold at the height of the pandemic when the market was at its hottest are probably not the best reference points when dialing in a number that will attract buyers today. The median sale price in January of this year in Lake Oswego was down 22% from last year so be sure you or your agent are comparing apples to apples.
  2. Putting your home’s best foot forward. This is not two years ago when it seemed anything on the market would fly. With interest rates where they are, it is costing buyers more to buy a home so they want a home that is move-in ready. Update as much as you can, improve your curb appeal, remove clutter, improve the lighting even if it just means getting brighter light bulbs.
  3. Working with a Realtor who knows the local market and is a good communicator. This works to your advantage in several ways from pricing your home to negotiating to sourcing any work that needs to be done. A Realtor who keeps you in the loop and is accessible can take the stress out of the equation.

If you’re a buyer out there, be sure to shop around for a lender. Some are offering free refinancing for up to five years which can soften the blow of higher mortgage payments in the short term. By getting in now, you can beat the competition for homes that is sure to heat up once rates lower, which I’m anticipating happening by the summer. If you need some referrals, give my daughter Riley (971.322.6205) or myself (503.939.9801) a call and we can put you in touch.

Whether you are looking to buy or sell a home in Lake Oswego or the Portland metro area, Riley and I are here to help. Let us make the market work for you. Please reach out.

Kevin – kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com   503.939.9801

Riley – riley.costello@cascadehassonsir.com      971.322.6205

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One of the Top Reasons to Move to Lake Oswego

Posted on February 4, 2024 by lovelakeoswego

Over the years I’ve provided more than 600 reasons to love Lake Oswego and consider moving here. But our recent Arctic blast with heavy winds followed by an ice storm made one of the many reasons really stand out….

THE PEOPLE.

With more than 100 trees falling across the city, many of us were left without power which on any winter day can be uncomfortable but when the highs only hit 18, miserable is more like it. One Lake Oswegan was killed after a tree fell through his house so fear added to the cold to make the situation challenging for many residents.

Calls for help started flooding social media sites.

“Can a neighbor do a check? My mom’s house had a tree fall on it and it busted the window. Her phone is dead and we can’t get there. Nor can she leave. Anyone in the area able to do a check? Her house is the blue one with 2 Volvos in front on Pomona.”

The offers of help came flooding in, at least 30, and someone was able to confirm that this person’s mom was okay.

“We’ve noticed a few posts where people are requesting firewood. We have a large stack available in our backyard if anyone needs to take any.”

People chimed in thanking these Lake Oswegans for their generosity, even those who weren’t in need of firewood.

“Anyone know how to start a fire or have wood? Me and my roommate are stuck at home with three kitties and one small dog with no power. We can see our breath in our bedrooms. If anyone has wood and stuff to start a fire in an indoor fireplace and could bring it please let us know. We’ll pay you whatever you need for the wood.”

Here were some of the responses:

“We would love to help! We have a little firewood plus some kindling and dryer lint and can even help you light it.”

“Is your flue open on your fireplace? Ride Aid will have bundles of wood. Do you have a lighter? Dryer lint lights really fast to get a fire started. Go outside in your neighborhood to find dead branches that have fallen. You should be able to find plenty.”

“I’m going to be in the neighborhood for the next 10 minutes. I’m not sure if you’re able to message me directly but if you still need some wood, let me know. I’m happy to drop some off.”  

Another woman was asking for any spare firewood for a 77-year-old friend of hers in Mountain Park in preparation for the ice storm. She too got flooded with offers of help, including one neighbor who said to contact her anytime for help as she lives nearby and is always happy to lend a hand.

One resident in Lake Grove noticed all the calls for firewood and offered what she had in her yard. “It’s under plastic and dry. Anyone who wants to come get it is welcome to it. DM me for address.”

Another neighbor cried out, “We are running out of firewood! No electricity! Is there anyone with wood we can get right away?”

In addition to offers of firewood, one resident in the Oswego Point apartments offered “a place to hang out, take a shower, cook some food, etc.”

Many others piped in and offered something similar along the lines of: “I would like to offer a place to come warm up, fill a thermos with coffee/hot water, charge some phones, borrow a camp stove. I am also totally cool if you just want to come make a hot meal, grab our French presss, toss some laundry in.”

Yet another said: “Offering up my home in Lake Grove if anyone needs to warm up. I still have power and hot water. PM me if you need a break from your freezing house today.”

More residents flooded sites with offers to stop by a take a break from the cold: “Offer: I would like to offer a place to come warm up, fill a thermos with coffee/hot water, charge some phones, borrow a camp stove. I am also totally cool if you just want to come make a hot meal, grab our French press or toss some laundry in.”

Another similar post from a resident in Bryant said: “We have no power, but we do have a generator to warm up the house. If you live within walking distance, you are welcome to stop by to charge the phone, have a tea and warm up.”

Yet another resident off of Carman cleverly thought to offer shelter for animals so those with pets and no power could stay in a hotel. “If animals are stopping you from going to a hotel or family’s house to stay warm, I can take in a couple kitties and small animals.”

And in Marylhurst, a Lake Oswegan was willing to take in another family for several days saying: “We have heat, power, food and space for a family lacking these things to hunker down with us. We have a guest room with a queen bed and a separate bathroom and a playroom with sleeping surfaces for multiple kids!” Talk about going above and beyond!

Even in the midst of the chaos, some Lake Oswegans still had a sense of humor. One resident on Buy Nothing Lake Oswego posted, “Premium quality ice available for pick up. Delivered by mistake and my family does not like it. We would like to see it gone ASAP. Serious interest only, prompt pick up in McVey/Southshore is highly appreciated.”

So yes, Lake Oswego has a beautiful lake, excellent school district, natural beauty, recreational opportunities, art and culture offerings, great dining and coffee options, swim parks, hiking trails, thriving farmer’s market, shopping districts and more….but not to be overlooked are the people which give it a great sense of community – people who will look out for you when you find yourself in need.

We can personally attest to this as our basement flooded back in 1996.  Without even putting out any calls for help (social media didn’t exist back then), neighbors just showed up at our door, moving furniture and belongings up to higher elevation and forming a relay line to move sandbags from the street to our backyard. The water may have been rising but our spirits were lifted by the kindness shown by the community we proudly call our own.

And THAT, is one of the most compelling reasons to love Lake Oswego – the community you’ll find here.

Thinking of moving in, out or around Lake Oswego? Give me a call at 503.939.9801 or email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com. I’d love to put my 30+ years of experience as a Realtor in Lake Oswego to work for you!

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10 Things We Love About Lake Oswego in February

Posted on January 28, 2024 by lovelakeoswego

ART BAR – VALENTINES. The Lake Oswego Library’s Art Bar is open all month in the lower level with all the supplies you and your kids need to create valentines for those special people in your life. Stop by and explore your creative side. 706 Fourth Street.

FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE. Head down to the Children’s Library for an afternoon of cuddling up with your little one while enjoying popcorn and a family-friendly movie featuring that lovable, gentle-hearted anxious cartoon character who has a crush on the Little Red-Headed Girl and is devoted to his beagle. Friday, February 2 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Lake Oswego Library, 706 Fourth Street.

LUNAR NEW YEAR FESTIVAL. Celebrate the Year of the Dragon at the Lake Oswego Library by joining in on some of the fun activities they have planned in conjunction with LO for Love and the Palisades World Language School. Activities include: children’s stories read in Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese; Heart Strings Mandarin performing songs, dance and poetry; Nanta Drumming and Korean Fan Dance by Oregon Korean Performing Arts; Lion dance performance by White Lotus Dragon and Lion Dance; demonstrations on how to fold a dumpling or make red envelopes as well as how to create a Chinese ink painting. Saturday, February 3 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Lake Oswego Public Library, 706 Fourth Street.

A JOURNEY THROUGH PIEDMONT WINE DINNER. Nicoletta’s Table has already sold out tickets to this special wine and food pairing event featuring the Piedmont region. Best to get on their email list to be one of the lucky early birds to learn of these events in advance! Wednesday, February 7 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. $90/person. Nicoletta’s Table, 333 South State Street, Suite M.

INDOOR KOKEDAMA WORKSHOP. Learn how to create your own Kokedama plant ball in this class on this ancient form of Bonsai in which plant roots are encased in soil and wrapped in moss—no planter needed! $35 class fee covers all materials. Saturday, February 10 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Dennis’ 7 Dees, 1090 McVey Avenue. 

WINE TASTING AT RICCARDO’S. Enjoy generous pours of Italy’s best wines, an antipasti plate and a great afternoon on Saturday, February 10 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. $20 per person; first come first served. Happens every month on the second Saturday. 16035 Boones Ferry Road, 503.636.4104

FLORAL ARRANGEMENT WORKSHOP. Dennis’ 7 Dees is offering this class at their Bridgeport Village Plant Shop just in time for Valentine’s Day. Learn the basics of floral design and create a gorgeous arrangement for you to keep, Tuesday, February 13 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Pre-registration required. Fee is $55. 7325 SW Bridgeport Road.

THE LOST TREASURES COLLECTION: ROMANCE/ROMANCE. The Lakewood Theater Company continues its series of obscure and rarely performed musicals presented in concert/cabaret style with these two one-act musicals linked by the common theme of love and one song performed in both acts. February 16 at 7:00 p.m. and February 17 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. $20/person. Side Door Stage. 368 S. State Street, 503.635.3901

PORTLAND ROSE SOCIETY CARE AND PRUNING CLINIC.  Get your questions answered and watch a demonstration on the proper rose pruning techniques. Bring your hand pruners for free sharpening. The class on basic rose care will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. and has limited capacity.  Clinic runs from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Saturday, February 17. Dennis’ 7 Dees, 1090 McVey Avenue.

LAKEWOOD THEATER COMPANY DRESS REHEARSAL PERFORMANCE OF A FEW GOOD MEN. Catch a dress rehearsal performance of the Lakewood Theater Company’s newest production on Thursday, February 29 at 7:30 p.m. Suggested Donation: $5. Registration through the Adult Community Center is required by calling 503.635.3758. Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street.  

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Free Virtual Home Buyer Seminar for the Lake Oswego and Portland Metro Area Real Estate Markets

Posted on January 21, 2024 by lovelakeoswego

From bidding wars to high interest rates, the housing market has thrown challenges to both buyers and sellers the last couple of years. Despite that, my daughter and I have been successful in helping clients get into the homes they want through tried-and-true negotiation strategies, creative financing solutions and tapping into our network of hyperlocal Realtors.

As a result, we’ve delivered such wins for our clients as:

●Finding a couple their dream home on one of Lake Oswego’s canals through off-market networking

●Negotiating a $300,000 reduction in asking price for our buyers by providing comparable sales that justified it

●Providing strategic listing price advice to encourage the sale of a home in a highly competitive price point

●Beating out as many as 16 multiple offers to land several clients their dream home

●Finding an off-market property for a local real estate investor

Our success relies on our intimate knowledge of the market as both Realtors and residents. I’ve been President of the Chamber, school volunteer and an active Rotarian. My daughter grew up through the Lake Oswego School District system, worked as a Lake Grove Swim Park lifeguard and wrote a column for The Oregonian. That gives us an insight that Zillow searches can’t provide such as what neighborhoods in Lake Oswego have easement rights to the lake and what neighborhoods in Portland offer the highest appreciation. In addition, we are a hands-on team, keeping our clients informed every step of the way and keeping the transaction moving until we reach that happy ending.

We’re offering a Free Virtual Home Buyer Seminar on January 25th from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for anyone interested in going into 2024 armed with the latest information on and the best strategy for navigating the Lake Oswego and Portland metro area housing markets. We’ll cover market projections, how to prepare to buy a home, a step-by-step breakdown of the homebuying process and more. Simply scan the QR code above to sign up. See you on Zoom!

Posted in buying a home in Lake Oswego Oregon, Lake Oswego housing market, Portland Metro Area Housing Market | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Thinking of moving to Lake Oswego in 2024? Here are 5 things you should do!

Posted on January 14, 2024 by lovelakeoswego
  1. Make your wish list. Lake Oswego has certain amenities that other towns do not, so in addition to best school, best neighborhood, you also want to ask yourself how important it is to have access to the lake. Do you want to live in a house that has lake easement rights? Do you want to be able to use the Lake Grove Swim Park? Do you want a view of the lake or do you want to be able to hop right in from your backyard? Other things to consider are community pools, quick freeway access, walkability. Make a list of which of these assets are at the top of your list.
  2. Check and strengthen your credit. Your credit score will determine whether you qualify for a mortgage and affect the interest rate that lenders are willing to offer you. So get a free credit report from any of the three credit bureaus and make sure there are no surprises. In the meantime, keep paying your bills on time, keep your credit card balances low, your current credit card accounts open and don’t open any new credit accounts to make big purchases like a new car.
  3. Meet with a lender. Before you get too far into your home-buying journey, you should definitely meet with a lender to determine the price range you can afford. This can save you time (and heartache) by going into the search with the information you need. By getting pre-approved, you can also strengthen your offer and expedite the home-buying journey. It pays to shop around and if you need some referrals, give me a call at 503.939.9801.
  4. Talk with/meet with a hyper-local Realtor like myself or my daughter, Riley. I’ve lived and worked as a Realtor in Lake Oswego for over 30 years and my daughter grew up here so between us both we have firsthand knowledge of the schools, the lake life, the community and most importantly, the housing market. Show us your priority list and we can start focusing your search on particular neighborhoods and homes in Lake Oswego that meet the criteria you’re looking for.
  5. Subscribe to my blog. With over 656 blogs posted in 12 years on topics ranging from Lake Oswego housing market updates to a guide to coffee shops in town, this is a one-stop-shop for finding out everything you wanted to know but didn’t know who to ask about Lake Oswego. And if you have a question that isn’t answered here, give me a call at 503.939.9801 and I’d be happy to help.

Moving to Lake Oswego could be a great 2024 New Year’s resolution and we are here to help you make that happen! Reach out to us and we’ll put our experience, enthusiasm and market expertise to work for you. And watch next week’s blog – we are offering a free virtual homebuying seminar and you’ll learn all the details.

Kevin Costello   503.939.9801  kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com

Riley Costello     971.322.6205 riley.costello@cascadehassonsir.com

Our Website:    costellorealestategroup.com

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