If you run anything from a 5:59 minute/mile to a 13:23 minute/mile, then you’ll be right at home with the pack of runners signed up to participate in this year’s Lake Run, on May 6, hosted by Northwest Housing Alternatives.
That 5:59 minute miler came in first last year in just 37 minutes and 11 seconds and the last person to cross the finish line did it in 1 hour, 23 minutes, and 7 seconds.
So, as you can see, it takes all kinds to make the Lake Run a success and this year, they’re asking you to not just participate but donate too. A food drive, running concurrently, will benefit seniors and families living at Northwest Housing Alternative’s affordable housing properties. Many of the residents served by NHA are experiencing foot insecurity due to rising inflation and reductions to food programs, making the food drive even more important this year. Donations can be dropped off the day of the race or at both Lake Oswego New Seasons stores, 3 Monroe Parkway and 1377 McVey or Albertson’s at 16199 Boones Ferry Road between April 23 and May 7.
If you plan on participating, here are some things you should know:
The race offers three events: a 10K starting at 8:00 a.m., a 5K starting at 8:15 a.m. and a Kids’ Dash for ages 3 and up taking off at 10:00 a.m.
Registration is online and is $55 for the 10K, $50 for the 5K and $15 for the Kids’ Dash and includes a t-shirt this year.
All participation is in-person this year – there is not a virtual option.
To prep for the 10K, you might want to practice some hill runs, with the highest elevation coming on South Shore at the 2.9 km mark and preceded by a 17% grade as you start up the McVey climb.
Luckily, there are lots of distractions along the course, beginning with the gorgeous scenery as you wind your way around Oswego Lake, the volunteers and neighbors who come out to cheer you on and the pit stops along the way.
Last year over 1,000 people participated in the event, raising $70,000 for NHA. This year’s goal is $75,000.
Enjoy the family-friendly festivities afterwards at Millennium Plaza Park featuring face painting, kids’ games, llamas, a plant sale and food carts.
Read some of my previous blogs on the Lake Run to find out what all the fuss is about.
And subscribe to my blog to stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Lake Oswego by clicking the “Sign me up” button in the top right-hand column.
Rumor has it that more houses will be coming on the market in Lake Oswego and the Portland metro area in May. Time will tell if the rumor mill is correct.
I know we have some sellers who are waiting for Spring to list and since that is the real estate industry’s traditional “boom” time, we are inclined to think that buyers may find themselves with more options soon.
Who are those buyers? A surprising (or perhaps not so surprising) number are coming from Portland. Between July 2021 and July 2022, Multnomah County lost 10,000 residents, the biggest decline of any county in our state. It seems a combination of high taxes, high housing prices and increased homelessness has motivated the move for most, many of whom have fled across the border to Clark County in Washington, but many, who are not deterred by high housing costs, are moving to Lake Oswego.
Residential real estate isn’t the only market being sought out by Portlanders. The Willamette Week just called Kruse Way in Lake Oswego “Portland’s New Main Street,” as businesses are flocking to our city for many of the same reasons as residents.
So the demand is here. Now we just need the supply to match it. And as you can see, that supply has been lagging.
During times like these, it’s even more important to work with a hyper-local Realtor who is plugged into the local housing market and a network of professionals who often have an inside track to what may be coming on the market. Many times the national headlines don’t speak to what’s really happening in your neck of the woods.
For example, just this week the Oregonian reported that “even a drop in home prices hasn’t proved enough to lure buyers” into the housing market. If so, how do you explain a local Realtor who lost out in a bidding war involving 12 other buyers where the house sold for $50,000 over asking? The explanation is this—well-priced homes in desirable areas are in demand. I can’t think of a more desirable area than Lake Oswego so sellers should breathe easy and buyers should be working with a local Realtor whose expertise is Lake Oswego.
Having lived and worked as a top performing Realtor in Lake Oswego for over 30 years, I’d love to put my experience and connections to work helping you make your next move. Feel free to give me a call at 503.939.9801, email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com and/or check out my website.
While the rest of the United States may dedicate one day to trees (the last Friday of April is national Arbor Day), Lake Oswego has dedicated the entire month to these hard-working members of our community.
Hard-working, you ask? Yes, according to Lake Oswego’s Urban and Community Forestry Plan Update, “the ecosystem services of Lake Oswego’s urban forest are immense, including nearly 270 thousand pounds of air pollutants removed annually, 155 million gallons of avoided annual stormwater runoff, and storage of 201,732 megagrams of carbon.”
In addition, one large tree can provide a day’s supply of oxygen for up to four people, and trees lower surface and air temperatures by providing shade and provide vital wildlife habitat.
So it’s no wonder the city has scheduled a host of activities for us to celebrate our beloved tree canopy.
NATURE CRAFT WORKSHOP Friday, April 14, 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Luscher Farm Bunkhouse Classroom, 125 Rosemont Road
Children ages 8 to 12 can mix up plant-based watercolor paints, play with pressed flowers, and use treasures found in nature to get crafty in this no-school-day workshop. Fees apply. Pre-registration is required and capacity is limited. Visit www.ci.oswego.or.us/parksrec/parks-recreation-classes-activities and register for activity #25616.
SUSTAINABILITY RESOURCE FAIR Saturday, April 15, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Lakeridge Middle School, 4700 Jean Road
Wondering how you can make a difference when it comes to building a sustainable future for our city? Plan on attending Lake Oswego’s second annual Sustainability Resource Fair and connect with community members and organizations who are advancing sustainability in our city. Find opportunities to volunteer and learn simple ways you can help protect the environment.
SPRINGBROOK PARK PRESCHOOL NATURE WALK Tuesday, April 18, 10:45 to 11:45 a.m., Springbrook Park, Park at Uplands Elementary School, 2055 Wembley Park Road, meet at the park kiosk behind the playground
Feed your child’s curiosity with this FREE nature walk led by enthusiastic guides from Friends of Springbrook Park as they teach preschoolers what trees do to thrive and survive. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Contact Anne Lider at 503.701.2291 or anne.lider@gmail.com if you have questions.
OAK WOODLAND RESTORATION Saturday, April 22, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Park at 14903 Westlake Drive
Celebrate Earth Day by joining Oswego Lake Watershed Council for a morning of land tending and restoration at Westlake HOA Oak Woodland. This beautiful oak woodland habitat is home to 300-year-old Oregon white oaks and a diversity of wildlife. Volunteers will learn about Oregon white oak ecology, indigenous land tending and the cultural value of oak ecosystems, and help remove invasive species and plant natives. For additional information and free registration, visit www.solveoregon.org/opportunity/a0C8W00000VC2HP/oak-woodland-land-tending-at-westlake(link is external).
STEWARDSHIP WORK PARTIES Over 460 acres of natural area parks and open space in the City contribute to important habitat for plants and animals, watershed and stormwater management and health. These park natural areas also provide places for the community to connect with nature. Join a friendly Friends of the Parks volunteer habitat restoration work party during Arbor Month to help keep our park natural areas and open spaces healthy and beautiful:
Sunday, April 16, 1 to 3 p.m., Hallinan Woods, Parking on Hallinan Street or Hemlock Street Join Friends of Hallinan Heights Woods to remove invasive species in the recently acquired natural area in Hallinan Woods. Questions? Barbara Fisher at 503-888-2244 or lanefisher108@comcast.net(link sends e-mail)
Saturday, April 22, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Cooks Butte Park, Parking near 2286 Palisades Crest Drive Help Mother Nature with a spring clean-up at this 42-acre natural park. We’ll remove invasive species and pick up tree debris so native species can thrive. Questions? Contact Radu Stancescu at radu_stancescu@yahoo.com(link sends e-mail)
Sunday, April 23, 1 to 3 p.m., Springbrook Park, Parking at Uplands Elementary School, 2055 Wembley Park Road. Meet at the park kiosk behind the playground. Join Friends of Springbrook Park to remove invasive species and help restore habitat in this 52-acre natural park. Questions? Contact Laura Tanz at 503.702.7937 or blmjt2205@gmail.com(link sends e-mail)
Volunteers MUST fill out and bring the Stewardship Waiver available online at lo-stewardship.org(link is external). Dress for weather and wear closed toe shoes. Bring gloves, your favorite clippers and water to drink. Restrooms are not available. Stay home if you have symptoms of any contagious illness or had recent contact with someone exhibiting symptoms of any illness. Maintain six feet distance from others. Wash hands before and after the work party.
FARM SATURDAY Saturday, April 29, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Luscher Farm Bunkhouse Classroom, 125 Rosemont Road Children ages 5 to 12 are invited to spend Saturday morning at Luscher Farm, creating crafts to celebrate Arbor Month and Earth Day, partake in fun farm activities, and learn about organic gardening. Fees apply. Pre-registration is required and capacity is limited. Visit www.ci.oswego.or.us/parksrec/parks-recreation-classes-activities and register for activity #25870.
TREE PRUNING WORKSHOP Sunday, April 30, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Foothills Park Pavilion, 199 Foothills Road This is Lake Oswego’s version of “Everything you wanted to know about pruning but didn’t know who to ask.” The Who is ISA Board Certified Master Arborist Damon Schrosk of Treecology, Inc. He’ll explain all you need to know to give trees and shrubs in your yard their best chance for thriving. Limited to 40 Lake Oswego residents so visit www.ci.oswego.or.us/planning/workshop-series or call 503-635-0290 for free registration.
LAKE OSWEGO PUBLIC LIBRARY Celebrate Arbor Month with a book and a kid’s craft! Throughout April, the Lake Oswego Public Library, located at 706 4th Street, will have tree-themed books on display and offer a craft for kids using repurposed puzzle pieces to make a beautiful tree, at the Art Bar on the lower level. The Art Bar is open anytime the library is open. Arbor Month Art Contest entries will be on electronic display from mid-April through mid-May. Open daily: 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday-Saturday.
SOIL YOUR UNDIES FOR SCIENCE Life underground is just as biodiverse and complex as the plant communities that live above, and Oswego Lake Watershed Council wants to help residents measure and nurture that life. It is as easy as burying a pair of cotton undies for 60 days! Celebrate Arbor Month by participating in the 3rd Annual Soil Your Undies challenge! Sign up to receive your challenge kit, which includes a brand-new pair of cotton undies for you to bury in April and unearth in July. Participants can follow along with biweekly soil health tips and experiments to try out while the soil microbes are feasting on all of the buried undies. Learn more about the challenge and register here: https://www.oswegowatershed.org/soil-your-undies-2023(link is external).
BE AN LO TREE HERO Team up with the Oswego Lake Watershed Council (OLWC) and your neighborhood’s Urban Forest Committee to be an urban forest hero by removing invasive ivy from your trees and property. OLWC offers tools, education and leadership. Find out more at www.oswegowatershed.org(link is external).
GNOMES IN NATURE HUNT The wily Stewardship Gnomes, Blossom, Greenie and Oak, will hide in three natural area parks from April to October, moving to different parks on the first of each month. Come out and find them, you may win a prize! Here’s what to do:
Find three Gnomes hiding in three different natural area parks each month. In April, they will be hiding in Foothills Park, River Run Park and Springbrook Park.
Take a photo of you, your dog or anything else by a gnome.
Tag #LOparksgnomes and post photos on social media for a chance to win your very own garden gnome in October. Visit lo-stewardship.org(link is external) each month to learn where the Gnomes in Nature have moved and discover fun facts about the City’s 460-acres of natural park areas, native plants, wildlife and birds.
NOMINATE A HERITAGE TREE Do you have a favorite tree or group of trees? If it is of landmark importance—because of its age, size, species, horticultural quality or historic significance—you can nominate a tree or group of trees for Heritage Tree designation with permission from the property owner. Check out the Heritage Tree Story Map, learn about the City’s Heritage Tree Preservation Grant Program, and find a nomination form online at www.ci.oswego.or.us/planning/heritage-tree-program.
Trees are just one of the reasons to love Lake Oswego. Subscribe to this blog to learn about many more. And if you’re already in love with Lake Oswego and want to move here, give me a call at 503.939.9801, check my website, and/or email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com. I’d love to put my 30+ years as a Realtor living and working in Lake Oswego to work to help you make that move.
1. What’s the average cost of a home in Lake Oswego? Over the last twelve months, the average cost of a home in Lake Oswego was $1,277,166 with the lowest priced home at $440,000 and the highest at $6,900,000.
2. Can I live on the lake? Yes you can. There are approximately 750 waterfront homes on Oswego Lake. Current waterfront homes for sale range from $3,595,000 to $9,900,000.
3. Do you have to live on the lake to be able to use the lake? There are lots of options for residents to access the lake even if they don’t own a waterfront home as mentioned in one of my earlier posts. One of the most popular ones is buying a home with easement rights. There are close to 3,000 homes deeded lake access by joining one of 20 lakefront easements. Each easement is managed separately by its members and each only has a limited number of spots. Buying a home with easement rights does not guarantee you’ll have access—you may have to sign up on a waiting list for an opening before joining.
There are other options if you are a current, paid, easement member. You can moor a boat at LO Landing, located in the two-story office building next to the LOC marina. They may also have a waiting list, but typically their slips turn over more rapidly than those at the easements. You can reach them at 503 545-8870 or lo500@comcast.net
You also have the option to “day use.” Limitations are:
You must pull your boat from the lake prior to the LOC Marina’s closing time (7 pm nightly during the summer).
The LOC does not have parking for your truck or trailer on the premises.
Boats entering the lake must either have an intact and unaltered wire clip or be decontaminated prior to launch.
4. What are the best neighborhoods? My general answer to that is you can’t go wrong in Lake Oswego. Unlike other cities, neighborhoods aren’t divided between safe or unsafe, good schools or not good schools. Lake Oswego has an exceedingly low crime rate no matter where you live.
The school district itself as well as its teachers were just ranked the best in the state of Oregon by Niche in its 2023 rankings based on data from the Department of Education. And all ten of its individual schools also came out in the Top 10 in each of their grade-level categories. School spirit runs high, however, so if you talk to kids and parents, you’ll probably find differences of opinion.
But like I said in the beginning, you can’t go wrong. Check out some of my earlier blogs for more information on particular neighborhoods in Lake Oswego.
5. What are the best schools? Excuse my redundancy, but my general answer to that is you can’t go wrong in Lake Oswego. The Lake Oswego School District was named the best school district in the state of Oregon by Niche, in its 2023 rankings based on data from the U.S. Department of Education. And all ten of its individual schools also came out in the Top 10 in each of their grade-level categories.
My advice is to visit the schools you are considering and see if you child can shadow a student to get a feel for whether one setting or another is the right fit.
6. Are Lake Oswegans pretentious? This is a question that shows up on several of the online forums where people are considering moving here. Much of that reflects the stereotype afforded a more affluent community like Lake Oswego.
A market analysis for Lake Oswego indicated that the median household income is $121,540, the median age is 48.4 and 71.9% hold a four-year college degree or higher.
Does more money mean more pretentious? My experience has been that it’s not a given. In fact, I have seen many more examples of Lake Oswegans using their resources to be generous rather than pretentious. I remember attending a Lakeridge High School choir concert where parents raised over $2,200 in a pass-the-hat donation in support of visiting Jefferson High School’s Choir. Read one of my previous blogs for other examples of how the community rises to the occasion to meet needs in and around them.
7. Why would I live in Lake Oswego over other Portland area suburbs? Lake Oswego is not your sleepy suburb—it’s a vibrant community with engaged citizens and active city government invested in a mission to enhance the quality of life for its residents. As a result there are a host of resources from extensive bike and pedestrian paths to recreational opportunities to excellent school district to a thriving downtown core infused with retail, cultural, entertainment, and artistic opportunities to a record-shattering library program to….the list goes on and on which is the WHY of why you should pick Lake Oswego as your home.
8. Why should I live in Lake Oswego when I can get more house for less money elsewhere? Read the answer to the above question–you get what you pay for. When you buy a home in Lake Oswego, you are buying much more than just a house. You are buying into a community, a lifestyle, and an investment. Appreciation is about 8.1 percent each year, although there were significant upswings in 2016 (16.4 percent) and 2006 (19 percent). Even though there is a large cost of entry, there is a proven return on the backside that is worth it.
If you have questions about moving in, out or within Lake Oswego, give me a call at 503.939.9801 or check out my website. I’d love to put my 30+ years of experience as a Realtor in Lake Oswego to work helping you with your next move.
TRILLIUM FESTIVAL and NATIVE PLANT SALE. Enjoy this free family event offering a suite of educational stations around the Nature Center and trails at Tryon Creek. The Native Plant sale features native plant species like camas lily, red flowering currant and our local Western White Trillium. Get your backyard questions answered from local plant experts and learn more about the regional Backyard Habitat Certification Program. Saturday, April 1, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd, Portland.
STORYWALK OPENING DAY. Take a walk through the Children’s Garden with librarian Hilary to read the newest StoryWalk® installation. All Around Us by Xelena González and illustrated by Adriana M. Garcia draws the reader in with intricately complex drawings and a movingly simple story about the circle of life. The story will be available during Luscher Farm’s open hours for the entire month. Saturday, April 1 at 2:00 p.m. Luscher Farm, 125 Rosemont Rd., West Linn. 503.697.6580
LAKE OSWEGO READS. The Lake Oswego Reads program has filled the April calendar with all kinds of free activities from book discussions to film screenings to craft workshops for kids. Check out my previous blog as well as the complete schedule online.
TREE PLANTING PARTY. Kick off Lake Oswego Arbor Month with a tree planting party at Iron Mountain City Park, 2401 Iron Mountain Boulevard. Parks and Recreation staff will be on hand to talk about tree selection, planting, maintenance and proper planting techniques while helping to install new trees in the park. Dress for the weather. Pre-registration is required with capacity limited to 25 Lake Oswego residents. Call 503.635.0290 to register. Saturday, April 1 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
SUSTAINABILITY RESOURCE FAIR. In celebration of Earth Day, the City of Lake Oswego Sustainability Advisory Board, Lake Oswego School District, Lake Oswego Sustainability Network, and Oswego Lake Watershed Council are holding the second annual Lake Oswego Sustainability Resource Fair. Learn what diverse organizations across our community are doing to advance sustainability, find opportunities to volunteer and participate in educational programs, connect with neighbors, and learn simple ways you can help protect the environment, save money, and live well. Saturday, April 15, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Lakeridge Middle School, 4700 Jean Road.
BUNCO BEACH NIGHT. Calling all Bunco players from beginners to pro to join in a night full of fun and prizes, all with a tropical Hawaiian theme at the Lake Oswego Adult Community Center. Feel free to dress in your Luau best! Light refreshments will be provided and one drink ticket is included in the price. Reservations are $20/Resident; $25/Non-Resident for ages 21 and up. April 20 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Register online or call 503.635.3758. 505 G Avenue.
DRUG TAKE BACK EVENT. Dispose of unwanted or expired prescription medicines properly at the city’s drive-through drug take-back event. Look for more information as to what’s required online. Saturday, April 22 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Adult Community Center, 505 G Avenue.
Keeping you informed about Lake Oswego is what I like to do, and that includes providing on-the-ground updates about the Lake Oswego real estate market. If you have questions about what your home is worth, whether this is a good time to buy or sell, or how to move to Lake Oswego, give me a call at 503.939.9801 or email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com. I’m here to help and have been for over 30 years. Let me put that experience to work for you.
The Lake Oswego Reads program is off and running in April with a calendar full of free activities to educate, enlighten and entertain you. This year’s book selection, The Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson spans several generations as it follows a Dakhóta family’s struggle to preserve their way of life. Be sure to check out the complete schedule online but here are a few highlights:
Saturday, April 1 Kick-Off. Drop in at the library between 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and enjoy an interactive loom activity, a beautiful sound bath of Native American flute music, inspirational stories of connection with Jan Michael Looking Wolf, a presentation on Indigenous foods while sampling delicious salmon, a children’s book read aloud with Karen Kitchen (Osage Nation) and pick up your pair of free, brand-new undies to learn about healthy soil in partnership with Oswego Lake Watershed Partnership Council. 706 Fourth Street.
Monday, April 10. Professor Eva Guggemos peels back the curtain on Oregon’s own boarding school system’s legacy of trauma for Indigenous children. The Chemawa Indian School was one of the first residential schools in the nation and was designed to break students’ ties to Native cultures, languages and beliefs. Learn why the school was founded, what daily life was like for its students, the work that is being done to document deaths and burials at the school, and how we weave this reality into our understanding of our history and that of the Indigenous people. Lake Oswego Library, 706 Fourth Street, 5:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 13. Join a screening of the documentary, Blood Memory, a story of removal and return that documents America’s Indian Adoption Era during which one-third of children from tribal communities nationwide were displaced from their families as part of an assimilative movement. The film runs for 1 hour and 47 minutes. Discussion guides with in-depth background information will be made available to all attendees. The Springs Theater at Lake Oswego, 3900 Kruse Way Place, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 15. Weaving Workshop for Kids. Woven baskets served many an important purpose for Native American cultures with each tribe using different materials native to the area to make their own. The library will provide paper plates and a variety of yarns and fibers so children can create woven baskets of their own. For ages 5 and up. Lake Oswego Library, 706 Fourth Street, 11:00 a.m.
Wednesday, April 19. Westlake Oak Woodland and Native Plant Walking Tour. Join the Oswego Lake Watershed Council for a walking tour of local seeds, soils, flowers, and trees while connecting with the land and relearning local foods, plants, and medicines. On this family-friendly walking tour, you will observe wildlife, wildflowers, native flowering shrubs, snags, oak trees and more. You will also learn how this woodland fits into larger systems such as land tending, climate change, fire, active management, food systems, watershed health, upland successional processes, and partnerships. Pre-registration required. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 14903 Westlake Drive, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 20. Trivia Night. Join hosts, Jamie and Carissa, for another Thursday night of good old-fashioned brain games. You’ll be challenged by trivia questions related to The Seed Keeper and have a chance to win a Powell’s gift card! Pre-registration required. Online, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 22. Seed Art with Cathy Camper. Seed Art, or what is sometimes called “crop art,” is a branch of mosaic art that is alive and well and still going strong after two-three thousand years. Camper’s iconic seed art has won awards and her work has been featured in Simple Times: Crafts for Poor People, by Amy Sedaris. Recommended for grades 3 and up. Lake Oswego Library, 706 Fourth St., 11 a.m.
Sunday, April 23. Gather: The Documentary Screening. Learn about the growing movement amongst Native Americans to reclaim their spiritual, political and cultural identities through food sovereignty, while battling the trauma of centuries of genocide. Lake Oswego Theater and Café, 106 N. State Street, 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, April 25. Author Diane Wilson will discuss her novel, The Seed Keeper, with fellow author, Robin Wall Kimmerer. Ways to Watch: Lakeridge High School Auditorium at 7:00 p.m. This event is free, but does require tickets which were given away last month. TVCTV will film the event for livestream and later viewing. Lakeridge High School Auditorium, 1235 Overlook Drive.
Keep track of your participation by completing the online passport and then enter the library’s drawing for a chance to win one of three gift baskets.
Stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Lake Oswego by subscribing to this blog. Click the “Sign me up” button in the top right-hand column and receive weekly updates to your inbox.
It doesn’t take much to warm up the housing market. With a slight drop in interest rates at the beginning of the year, we saw a little more activity in February than January; however, compared to last year, 37% less homes sold in Lake Oswego in February and we’re behind 48% for the year.
Because of higher mortgage rates, now hovering near 7% and a lack of inventory, the market is slow. Sellers are continuing to stay put for a variety of reasons including not wanting to trade their low-interest rate for a higher one and not having someplace else to go.
Sellers should take comfort from Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors who predicts that, “Amid the backdrop of high inflation, elevated mortgage rates and slowing sales activity, severely limited housing inventory will prevent large home price drops for most of the country next year.” As you can see in the chart below, it’s still a seller’s market in most price points in Lake Oswego, except in the $2.3M to $4.6M price ranges. Homes are still selling close to the list price (98%) on average and there is much less competition for the buyers that are out there.
And there are buyers out there for a variety of reasons from already having sold their home during the heated market to professionals relocating due to a job. Many of them have cash in hand so the interest rates are not part of their buying decision.
Buyers need to be patient and also realize that while they may be looking at higher interest rates than a year ago, they are also looking at homes that will most likely sell closer to the listing price rather than $50,000 to $100,000+ above like during the heated market. What that means is that buyers will already have that extra $50,000+ equity in the house once they move in, as opposed to having that amount be part of the loan they had to take out to buy the house a year ago. Granted, monthly payments will be higher; but if buyers can swing it, the long-term picture might be better for them. And, remember that loans taken out today at 7% can be refinanced in a year or two when rates go down, which many experts predict. By the end of the first quarter alone, Fannie Mae and Wells Fargo project the average 30-year fixed interest rate to settle in at 6.1% and 6.3% respectively.
Buyers should also take into account something else economist Lawrence Yun predicts: “a strong rebound in housing in 2024 with a 10% jump in home sales and a 5% increase in the national median home price.” That means a home purchased today has a good chance (and an even better one in Lake Oswego) of appreciating by at least 5% in a year.
If you’d like some help making sense of today’s housing market in Lake Oswego and the Portland metro area, give me a call at 503.939.9801, email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com and/or check out my website. I’d be more than happy to discuss best strategies given your current situation. I’ve been a Realtor in this area for over 30 years so I have the hyperlocal insight you need when deciding your next move. I’m here to help.
These Irish eyes were smilin’ last year when my wife and I visited Sean’s Bar, the oldest surviving bar in all of Ireland in celebration of gaining my Irish citizenship.
There are lots of reasons for Irish eyes to be smilin’ this month if you live in Lake Oswego and the Portland metro area. Here are some of the more popular ones:
THE DULLAHAN IRISH PUB ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL. Our homegrown party means you don’t even have to leave town to order up your Guinness and enjoy some Irish jig. There’s a full schedule which you can find online and includes popular band favorites like the Celtic melodies of the Katie Jane Band (Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) and The Stomptowners (Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.) as well as performances by An Daire Academy of Irish Dance on Sunday from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. and an Irish Jam Session on Saturday from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. Cover charges are $15/daily; $30/full weekend pass and cut the line VIP. 352 B Avenue, 503.305.8087.
KELL’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL. This annual event has expanded to both its pub locations as well as the Southwest Waterfront and will be offered over the span of two weekends: March 10-12 and March 17-18. Online tickets are available until March 10 and are $20 for the 11th and 17th or $50 for a pass that gives you admission to both pubs as well as the waterfront festival (including the boxing event). Individual tickets to the Ireland vs. USA live amateur boxing event are $35. Ticketed admission begins at 5:00 p.m. at the pubs. For a complete schedule including Irish Dancing, Kell’s Pipes and Drums and other live music, check online. 112 SW 2nd Avenue, 503.227.4057; 210 NW 21st, 503.719.7175; SW Naito Parkway and SW Salmon Street.
SHAMROCK RUN. Portland’s longest-running tradition returns for its 45th year on March 12 and features multiple distances ranging from the one-mile Leprechaun Lap for kids 10 and under, to the half-marathon. All of the races start and finish at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, offering sweeping views of Portland’s skyline, Willamette River waterfront, and at least seven unique bridges. The post-race ‘Finish Line Festival’ welcomes both runners and spectators, featuring a green beer garden and live music for a St. Patrick’s Day party like no other. Register online.
PORTLAND ST. PADDY’S PARADE.This fun neighborhood tradition is sure to make you smile as everyone (officially Irish or not) gets in the spirit donning green and playing Irish music. The 1.2 mile circuitous route takes about one hour and begins and ends at the Fernwood/Cleary School, on the corner of NE 33rd and NE Hancock. Starts at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 12.
PADDY’S BAR and GRILL ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL. You’ll find all the usual Irish suspects here including live Irish music, bagpipers, Irish dancers, corned beef and cabbage, Guinness, Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey and more. Purchase a $20 raffle ticket to win a trip to Ireland (odds of winning are 1/500!). Friday, March 17 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Check online for ticket info. 65 SW Yamhill, 503.224.5626.
ST. PADDY’S PUB CRAWLS. Purchase tickets for Portland pub crawls for either Friday, March 17 or Saturday, March 18 and enjoy discounted drinks and entertainment as you flash your wristband for access to popular bars on the digital map. Purchase tickets online.
I may be 99.8% Irish but I promise not to offer you any blarney when it comes to talking about buying or selling your home. With over 30 years of experience helping families move in, out, and around Lake Oswego, I’d love to do the same for you! Give me a call at 503.939.9801, email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com or check out my website.
Lake Oswego Reads Author Diane Wilson Ticket Giveaway. This year’s Lake Oswego Reads book selection is The Seed Keeper, by Diane Wilson who will be speaking on Tuesday, April 25 at the Lakeridge High School Auditorium as part of the month’s festivities. Admission is free, but tickets are required and can be picked up free (thanks to the Friends of the Library) on Saturday, May 4 beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Lake Oswego Library. A LINCC library card is required and there is a limit of two tickets per person. For more information, email Nancy Niland at nniland@lakeoswego.city. 706 Fourth Street.
Lake Oswego Public Library Visioning Community Forum. The Lake Oswego Public Library is a popular place, with one of the highest per capita usage rates in the nation. In keeping with their mission to serve our community, the library has been holding visioning forums to determine the path ahead and how they can continue addressing community challenges and meeting emerging needs. This is the third in the series and will be held on Saturday, March 11 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at Lake Grove Elementary School, 15777 Boones Ferry Road. Come share your ideas.
Daylight Savings Time Begins. While this isn’t exclusive to Lake Oswego, it does herald our direction towards those long summer nights we are all big fans of. On March 11, sunset is at 6:11 p.m. but on March 12, the sun sets at 7:12 p.m.
Pints from the Past: Wild Attractions of the 1905 Lewis & Clark Centennial Exposition. The Lake Oswego Public Library is partnering with the Lake Theater & Café to offer this presentation by Dr. Tanya March, owner of Slabtown Tours, a Portland-based walking tour company aimed at helping to create a meaningful sense of place on Tuesday, March 14. Admission is free and no ticket is required (although food and drink purchase is encouraged to offset the cost to the Lake Theater). Doors open at 6:30 with the presentation starting at 7:00 p.m. 106 North State Street. For more information contact Carissa Barrett at cmbarrett@lakeoswego.city or 503.534.4237.
Cherry Blossoms, Daffodils and Tulips. The color of spring starts popping up everywhere thanks to the abundance of trees lining our streets and 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).
Fire and Ice Family Dance. This annual themed gala is open to all children (ages 3-12) and their guardians and includes dinner, a live DJ, dancing and a professional photographer. Tickets are $32/residents; $48/non-residents. Saturday, March 18 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Christ Church Parish, 1060 Chandler Road. Purchase tickets online.
Family Movie Matinee. Home for Spring Break? Put this family event on your calendar for Friday, March 24 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Lake Oswego Library. Popcorn will be provided and although licensing rules prevent the library from saying which movie you’ll be watching, it is based on a classic crocodile picture book. 706 Fourth Street.
Craft Night: Upcycled Origami Paper Boxes. Learn how to turn old maps or leftover wrapping paper into boxes with matching lids after watching a short video from Creativebug and following printed instructions provided by the Lake Oswego Library. The program is free and includes all materials; however, space is limited to 10 people (ages 13+) so be sure to register by emailing April Younglove at ayounglove@ci.oswego.or.us or calling 503.534.5667. Tuesday, March 28 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. 706 Fourth Street.
We also love that March is the kickoff to the spring home buying and selling season. If you’re considering moving, please give me a call at 503.939.9801, email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com and/or check out my website. I’d love to sit down and discuss the current market and how your plans might fit into that.
There seems to be a day for everything and February 23 is National Tennis Day. Turns out it’s a sport to be celebrated here in Lake Oswego with our newly renovated Indoor Tennis Center at 2900 Diane Drive as well as three outdoor tennis court sites, two at Westlake Park (14164 Bunick Drive) and one at 1850 South Shore Blvd next to the South Shore Fire Station. In addition, you’ll find two courts at Lakeridge Middle School, six at Lakeridge High School, seven at Lake Oswego High School, and 9 indoor and 6 outdoor (four of which are lighted) at the Mountain Park Racquet Club (membership required).
The Lake Oswego Indoor Tennis Center is a four-court facility open year-round to players of all ages and ability levels with courts available every day for hourly rental at $24/hour. In addition, Parks & Recreation offers tennis lessons for ages five and up.
Adults have lots of opportunities to play including lessons, drill and play, leagues and weekly ladders. Kids also have the opportunity for both competitive and non-competitive play. AND the Lake Oswego Tennis Center, with sponsorship from the Greater Portland Tennis Council, provides the only Special Olympics tennis program in Oregon.
Other opportunities for play include Greater Portland City League and USTA league play. The Tennis Center is also the proud home of the only Special Olympics tennis program in the Pacific Northwest.
The Mountain Park Racquet and Fitness Club at 3 Botticelli Street is actually a two-for-one club membership. By joining, you also become a member of the West Hills Racquet and Fitness Club at 2200 SW Cedar Hills Boulevard in Portland. The Mountain Park facility features 9 indoor courts, 6 outdoor courts, 4 lighted outdoor courts, a spacious lobby viewing area, summer slam tournament ladies’ city league, mixed doubles nights, USTA leagues and weekly drop-in programs. The fitness side of things includes functional training equipment, certified personal trainers and group fitness classes. The West Hills facility has 8 indoor courts, 6 outdoor, 4 indoor pickleball courts and 4 outdoor pickleball courts as well as fitness offerings and a year-round outdoor swimming pool. Check online for membership fees.
Recreational opportunities are just one of the many reasons to love Lake Oswego. Subscribe to my blog to find out more! Just click the “Sign me up” button in the top right-hand column and receive weekly updates.
Kevin Costello, Realtor, 503.939.9801, kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com
I feel pretty lucky—I live where I work and I love where I live. As a Realtor in Lake Oswego, Oregon, I get to share that enthusiasm with clients every day. Through this blog, with the help of my freelance writer wife, Genita, I’d like to share that enthusiasm with you. Be sure to visit my website.
Due to the changing nature of activities in response to COVID-19, I am suspending this section of the blog temporarily but wish every mom out there a Happy Mother’s Day today!
52 Reasons to Love Lake Oswego 