The times, they are a-changin. Last year we saw buyers sweetening their offers with everything from thousands of dollars over asking to waiving inspections. Now we are beginning to see some sellers considering incentives to attract buyers.
It’s still a seller’s market in terms of inventory, but rising interest rates have made buyers more cautious so offering incentives can go a long way toward easing some of their fear.
A 3-2-1 BUYDOWN. With higher interest rates playing a big role in buyer hesitancy, sellers can consider offering some version of a 3-2-1 buydown which actually lowers the interest rate the buyer pays for the first three years. (3% the first year, 2% the second, 1% the third, before reverting to the original rate). How? The seller pays the upfront costs at closing, called a buydown fee. While the number of points a lender charges for a buydown varies, the cost is usually equivalent to the amount the buyer saves in interest over the period of the buydown. This has been a more common practice among builders in the past and in some markets, even buyers who have cash up front might pay their own buydown points if they plan on staying in the house for a long period of time. However, in the current market, it’s more likely that buyers would be looking to sellers to facilitate a sale by offering some version of this deal (could be a 2-1, for example). Of course, buyers need to be certain that they’ll be able to pay the higher interest rate once it reverts back to it and in most cases, they’ll need to qualify for the loan at the higher rate. However, if interest rates start to decline after three years, they could consider refinancing at a lower rate. One caveat is that there could be a limit on how much “interested parties” such as the seller can contribute to a transaction so all this needs to be explored with a lender before promises are made.
PRICE REDUCTION. This seems like an easier pill to swallow for some sellers; however, in the chart provided below you can see that a buydown explained above, in most cases doesn’t cost the seller anymore and benefits the buyer much more.
CLOSING COST CREDIT. Some buyers, especially first-timers, are often surprised to find that come closing, they will have to come up with anywhere from 3 to 6 percent of the loan amount to cover closing costs ranging from loan fees to title insurance. Sellers can offer to pay a credit to help defray these costs to the buyer.
HOME WARRANTY. Sellers can help put their buyers’ minds at ease by purchasing a home warranty at closing. Not only does it create an atmosphere of goodwill, but it also protects the seller from complaints should anything break down or go wrong after closing.
HOA DUES CREDIT. For homes in a homeowner’s association, the fees charged for maintenance can sometimes become an additional monthly expense that buyers are reluctant to take on with higher interest rates. Offering to pay the association fees for the next six to twelve months can remove a potential obstacle to closing a sale. As with the 3-2-1- buydown, sellers need to make sure they are staying within the limits of credits they are allowed to offer by the lender.
Whether you are looking to sell or looking to buy in Lake Oswego, let me put my 30+ years experience as a top Lake Oswego Realtor to work for you! Give me a call at 503.939.9801 or email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com. Let’s find out the right strategy to help you make your next move!
It may only be October but many of the popular holiday events in Lake Oswego are already sold out.
So, make your list and sign up now for spaces that are still available for these activities:
TINSELTOWN TROLLEY. Discover the magic of the holiday season with a yuletide ride on the historic Willamette Shore Trolley. Children delight in a merry experience aboard the decorated trolley that includes holiday lights, sweet treats, carols and more! As the trolley makes its way back to the station, guests are treated to a visit from a very special guest all the way from the North Pole. Rides last approximately 45 minutes. While several time slots are sold out, there are still some available so check the schedule. December 9 through December 11. Trolley departs from 311 N. State Street.
ELF JR. Back by popular demand, Elf Jr is a one hour condensed, author-approved version of the full length musical tailored to the talent of young actors and young audiences. The story follows Buddy, a young orphan, who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Faced with the harsh realities that his father is on the naughty list and his half-brother doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. Performances on December 10 and December 17 at 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Tickets are available online: Adults/$15; Youth/$12. 368 S. State Street.
PEPPERMINT BEAR – THE TAMING OF THE SHOE. The Peppermint Bear show is a Lakewood Theatre Company classic that families have enjoyed for years. This year’s version centers around a problem with Santa’s toy-making machinery right during crunch time with Christmas right around the corner. Performances on December 10 and 11 at 11:00 a.m.; December 17 and 18 at 11:00 a.m. and December 20-23 at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Tickets are available online: Adults $15; Youth $12. Side Door Stage, Lakewood Center, 368 S. State Street.
And mark your calendars for these FREE events that you just have to show up for – no reservations required.
58th ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING FESTIVAL. Take part in this annual tradition to ring in the holiday season. Festivities take place at Millennium Plaza Park only this year, with extended hours of holiday music, festive vendors, letters to Santa, sweet treats and more! The celebratory lighting of the Millennium tree takes place at 6:00 p.m. 200 1st Street.
WEST LINN HOLIDAY PARADE. Get out your ugly holiday sweaters and get lost in the like-minded crowd in the annual West Linn Ugly Sweater Parade. Saturday, December 10 at 10:00 a.m. Starts at 10th and Willamette Falls Drive. Register online.
CHRISTMAS SHIPS PARADE. While the Christmas Ships Trolley is already sold out, you can still catch the festive sight by showing up at one of the Lake Oswego viewing spots when the combined fleets make their way to our shores. Saturday, December 17. Ships usually start showing up around 6:00 p.m. at viewing points: Foothills Park, 199 Foothills Drive, Roehr Park, 350 Oswego Pointe Drive, and George Rogers Park, 611 S. State Street. 503.675.2549.
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Follow the numbered signs while you visit the Luscher Farm scarecrows and read The Scarecrow together!
STORYWALK® AT LUSCHER FARM. Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation has partnered with the Lake Oswego Public Library to bring you and your little ones a festive StoryWalk® at Luscher Farm. StoryWalks® combine literacy, the outdoors, healthy activity, and family time. This month the featured story is The Scarecrow by Beth Ferry, illustrated by the Fan Brothers. It’s a perfect excuse to visit the Luscher Farm scarecrows. Then just follow the numbered signs while you read the story together. Be sure to sign the guest book at the end! 125 Rosemont Road.
HALLOWEEN COSTUME SALE. Our costume closet is still filled with treasures my wife brought home from the Lakewood Theater’s Halloween costume sale back in the day when our kids were trick-or-treating and going to costume parties. Although many of the outfits were adult-size, there were lots of accessories (think headgear, jewelry, capes) that provided the finishing touches to unique, one-of-a-kind costumes. As the theatre prepares for the new season of shows, they need to make room for new costumes; hence, the sale. My advice is to go early to get the best selection. Friday, October 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, October 15 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Lakewood Center for the Arts, Community Meeting Room, 365 S. State Street.
BURGERVILLE SWEET POTATO FRIES. Maybe because they’re only seasonal or maybe it’s just because they’re that good. But the sweet potato fries here are short-lived and in high demand. Find out for yourself by stopping in at Lake Oswego’s location, 15650 SW Upper Boones Ferry Road.
WEST COAST GIANT PUMPKIN REGATTA. This event in our neighboring town of Tualatin, definitely puts in the FUN in Funtober featuring costumed characters paddling the Lake of the Commons inside giant pumpkins in a series of races. There’s a lot more going on as well including a giant pumpkin weigh-off, 5K run, variety show and kids’ costume contest (which you might win if you attend Lakewood Theater Company’s costume sale!). Check online for the full schedule. Saturday, October 15 – Sunday, October 16. Races start at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.on Sunday. 8325 SW Nyberg St., Tualatin.
SALT & STRAW FLAVORS. I dare you to try Salt & Straw’s Don Bugitos Creepy Crawly Critters flavor this month hiding toffee- brittle mealworms and chocolate crickets in matcha ice cream. If that’s too squeamish for you, then maybe one of their other October seasonal flavors will do: Black Cat Licorice and Lavender, The Great Candycopia, Jack O’Lantern Pumpkin Bread or Double Bubble Toil and Trouble. 100 Avenue.
HARVEST DASH. Enjoy a 5K trail run on natural terrain at Luscher Farm and celebrate your feat/feet with a barn bash after party. Pre-register to get the best deal: $20 participation fee for residents/$25 non-residents. Day of registration is $25 for residents; $37.50 for non-residents. You can pre-register online for the heat that best fits your athleticism. October 22 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 125 Rosemont Road. Road.
ROAR OF GREASEPAINT, SMELL OF THE CROWD. Don’t miss the first production of the Lakewood Center’s 2022-2023 Lost Treasures Collection, a series of obscure and rarely performed musicals presented in concert/cabaret version for one weekend only on their Side Door stage. Watch as two clowns, on opposite ends of the luck spectrum, compete in a “Game of Life.” The rag-tag players rely on humor, song, and dance to try to build a new life. But can show tunes and music hall merriment revive the human spirit? Friday, October 21 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, October 22 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $20. 368 S. State Street.
SEASONAL COFFEE DRINKS. We have our share of coffee spots (which you can discover in a previous blog), but now’s the time to enjoy some of the seasonal fall flavors like the Flapjack Latte at Morse featuring in-house maple syrup topped with crunchy maple sugar or the Caramel Apple Latte at Peet’s. Make the rounds and you’ll be well caffeinated!
THE ART OF LIVING. Participate in this creative endeavor online and/or in person. Four local artists, in all phases of their careers, all of whom work in varied media—from murals to oil and stencil to recycled art—bring their creative interpretations to a one-of-a-kind chair that is functional and decorative! The artists include Davey Barnwell, Debby Radakovich, Ingrid Dohm, and Marcia Jeglum. Each piece will be auctioned off October 14 through October 28 at noon!
Meet the artists in person and enjoy food and wine at an exclusive event on October 27 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at ACLO’s ARTspace Gallery, 380 A Avenue, Suite A. Tickets available online.
MONSTER MASH SPOOKTACULAR. Bring your costumed little ones to Christ Church Parish for an afternoon of frightful fun as they walk through the trick-or-treat streets to collect candy, toys and trinkets at every station. Spooky tunes and ghoulish crafts add to the fun. Sponsored by the Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation Department. Monday, October 31 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., 1060 Chandler Road.
For every season there is a reason to love Lake Oswego. Let me introduce them to you in this blog by becoming a subscriber or let’s talk in person so I can show you why I chose to move here over 30 years ago and have helped others do the same! 503.939.9801, kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com
Good times bear repeating. That’s why the City of Lake Oswego is bringing back the Lake Grove Farmers’ Market starting today, October 2, and repeating every other Sunday through November 27 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Hallmark Drive between Mercantile Drive and Collins Way.
So no need to go through Farmers’ Market withdrawal given that the Lake Oswego Farmers’ Market in Millennium Plaza Park had its last day yesterday. You can still enjoy fresh, local, in-season, equitable and sustainable products direct from the producer, only now on the west side of town.
Here are some of the vendors you’ll meet:
CENTRAL OREGON WAGYU. Featuring 100% full blood Wagyu beef allowed to grow slowly, bringing out the distinct flavor and qualities Wagyu are known for.
JIMMY TOMATO. Combine “Old School” recipes and slow cooking and you get Jimmy Tomato’s Classic Tomato Meat Sauce that uses his mother’s recipe dating back to 1954. Made with organic tomato products, local fresh produce, locally procured Italian sausage and meat products, herbs and spices, you’ll be looking for more ways to use it!
KELLY’S JELLY. This family business also started with a handed down recipe for Aunt Danny’s Habanero Pepper Jelly. Since then they’ve added a lineup of premium, small batch hot jellies and sweet fruit spreads that use only natural ingredients sourced from local producers. You can try a different one each week – Pineapple Jalapeno Pepper Jelly, Marionberry Habanero Pepper Jelly, Kelly’s Strawberry Habanero Pepper Jelly, Blueberry Lemon Fruit Spread, Oregon Tayberry Fruit Spread, Oregon Strawberry Fruit Spread and Oregon Marionberry Fruit Spread. Gift packs available as well.
MUD DOG FARM. This permaculture-based farm out of Gresham offers fresh produce free of pesticides, herbicides, artificial fertilizers and GMO. Eat good and feel good.
PABLO MUNOZ FARMS. This local farm out of Dayton offers seasonal produce. Although not an organic farm, they stop all spray applications once the plants begin to bloom, allowing fruit and produce to be as clean as possible straight off the plant.
PORTLAND CARAMEL COMPANY. Featuring smooth and creamy caramels these treats are perfect for making your day a little sweeter or someone else’s! Selections include Caramel Sauce, Chocolate Caramel Sauce, Chocolate Salted Caramels and Classic Salted Caramels.
RAW HONEY OREGON. This family company run by three generations features raw, local honey, filtered only once and never heated. The varieties are harvested from the local bloom specific to the hives locations which run along the Willamette, Clackamas, Abernathy, Mollala, Pudding, Kellogg, Mt. Scott and Columbia rivers.
ROUNDHOUSE FOODS. These plant based hummus, dips and sauces come in flavors you might not have seen anywhere else. Choose from Balsamic Pistachio, Garlic Overkill, Rosemary Lemon, Smoked Salt, Sriracha Lime, or Vegan Garlic Butter.
SPICE PILGRIM is a local spice and team company rooted in Clackamas specializing in healthy and delicious stone-ground spices, seasonings and hand-blended teas. A great variety to choose from including Mango Powder, Turkey Brine Mix, Orange Ginger Salt and Winter Remedy Tea.
THE HUMMUS STOP.Enjoy Mediterranean appetizers like Tabouli Salad, Green Olive Basil Garlic Spread, fresh pita bread and pita chips as well as a lineup of hummus including Roasted Red Pepper and Lemon.
DREGS VODKA.Dregs is a locally distilled vodka that gives 100% of its after tax profits to local charities that support low income youth like Abby’s Closet, p:ear mentor and Portland YouthBuilders. Make your cocktail of choice accomplish two things at once—provide a good taste and help your community.
FREELAND SPIRITS. Freeland Spirits is a craft distillery in Portland and one of a few women-owned and run distilleries. When you learn that women have more taste buds and 50% more olfactory cells than men, you wonder why you’d want anyone else making your spirits! Choose from three different gins and a bourbon (in possibly the world’s most beautiful spirit bottles)and canned cocktails.
GARIBALDI CELLARS. This family-run boutique winery is homegrown in the Willamette Valley and currently offers Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cuvée Bianco and Rosé of Pinot Noir.
STRAIGHTAWAY COCKTAILS. Leave the crafting to these guys. They’ve perfected the art of the cocktail so you can just open and enjoy. There’s a wide selection including the Oregon Old Fashioned, Cosmos and Negroni as well as the Nitro Gin Fizz and Negroni Spritz.
Stay up-to-date on all the reasons to love Lake Oswego whether you already live here or are thinking of moving to Lake Oswego. Subscribe to my blog by clicking on the “Sign me up” button in the top right-hand column. And if you have any questions about moving to Lake Oswego or selling your Lake Oswego home, give me a call at 503.939.9801 or email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com. I’d love to put my 30+ years’ experience to work for you!
Mortgage rates. We are probably looking at higher-than-we’ve-seen-recently mortgage rates for the next three quarters. Looking at the combined average projections of the big four forecasters (Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, Mortgage Brokers Association and National Association of Realtors) we can expect a rate of 5.4 in the fourth quarter of 2022, followed by 5.3 in the first quarter of 2023, 5.2 in the second quarter and 4.8 in the third. Many Lake Oswego home buyers are cash buyers so they will certainly retain bargaining power and may find themselves with less competition in the short term. Mortgage rates can vary depending on the lender so it’s more important than ever to shop around. A good place to start is with getting a recommendation from your Realtor.
Buyers are being more cautious. The tales of buyers waiving all contingencies or offering to name their firstborn child after the seller (yes, someone in Maryland tried that tactic but it didn’t work) are history. Instead, we are seeing a higher rate of sale fails as buyers walk away after inspections that raise issues or just because a bad case of buyer’s remorse seems to be going around. And we are seeing price drops. Sellers need to take this into consideration when putting their homes on the market in several ways. One, is to do all they can beforehand to bulletproof the transaction including addressing issues that might come up in the inspection BEFORE the inspection. Sellers want to remove any obstacles that might give buyers pause. Another is to listen to their Realtor when he or she suggests pricing their home based on the LISTED price of comparable homes, not the SOLD prices which were inflated by the frenzy that was fueling the market months ago.
Rent increases. Landlords with units 15 years and older can raise their rents by as much as 14.6% starting in 2023. This is quite a jump from the 9.9% increase allowed in 2022. Given that kind of inflation, mortgage rates in the five’s might seem more attractive, bringing more renters into the market than we are seeing today.
Oregon Household Formation Boomed During the Pandemic According to the Oregon Office of Economic Analysis, Oregon added a net 28,500 housing units between 2019 to 2021. But during that same time period, the number of households in the state increased by 53,200, meaning household formation outpaced net new construction by nearly 25,000 units. That is one of the factors contributing to the tight housing market and until that imbalance is corrected, could keep supply lower than demand.
Millennials have overtaken Baby Boomers as the largest living adult generation. And, for a variety of reasons, they are arriving at many of life’s transitions later in life from marriage to homebuying. But once they do, since they represent almost a 20% larger demographic than baby boomers, it stands to reason that their entry and movement within the housing market will keep demand high.
Lake Oswego’s desirability continues. Some things don’t change. And the fact that Lake Oswego is deemed such a desirable place to live remains a constant and continues to keep home values stable. In August to-date, 41% of the homes sold, sold over the original asking price and the median sale price still reflected a 12% increase over the median sale price a year ago. Inventory is still low at 0.9 compared to 1.9 just a month ago. The total number of homes sold in Lake Oswego year-to-date is 27% lower than the same time last year which reflects both the limited supply and the more cautious approach buyers are taking to the process.
Another thing that doesn’t change in the Lake Oswego housing market is my desire to help you make your next move your best one. Along with my daughter, Riley, we are here to help you navigate today’s market and put our expertise, hyperlocal knowledge and energy to work to ensure you come out ahead whether you’re a buyer or a seller. Get in touch today and get your questions answered! 503.939.9801; kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com.
WINE WALK. After a Covid-sponsored hiatus, Lake Oswego’s Wine Walk returns this year on Saturday, October 1 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The $60 ticket gets you 12 one-ounce pours being served up at up to 40 locations in downtown Lake Oswego. It’s a great excuse to try some new wines and visit some Lake Oswego businesses! Get all the details by clicking on the link below and buy your tickets here.
LAKE GROVE FARMERS’ MARKET. After making its debut appearance in the spring of 2021, the Lake Grove Farmers’ Market is returning by popular demand this fall. Starting on Sunday, October 2, the market will be open for business every other Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. through November 27. On a smaller scale than the summer market, this food-focused venue will feature 25-30 vendors. And it’s right next to Mercato Grove so plan on having lunch at one of the local restaurants while you’re at it! Hallmark Drive.
HARVEST DASH. Enjoy a 5K trail run on natural terrain at Luscher Farm and celebrate your feat/feet with a barn bash after party. Pre-register to get the best deal: $20 participation fee for residents/$25 non-residents. Day of registration is $25 for residents; $37.50 for non-residents. You can pre-register online for the heat that best fits your athleticism. October 22 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 125 Rosemont Road. Road.
DUAL POETRY BOOK LAUNCH. Join two esteemed poets, Emmett Wheatfall and John Sibley Williams, on Wednesday, October 26 at 5:30 p.m. as they both celebrate the launch of their poetry books. These guys have the credentials to earn our literary respect, earning awards for their previous works. Lake Oswego Public Library, 706 Fourth Street.
MONSTER MASH SPOOKTACULAR. Bring your costumed little ones to Christ Church Parish for an afternoon of frightful fun as they walk through the trick-or-treat streets to collect candy, toys and trinkets at every station. Spooky tunes and ghoulish crafts add to the fun. Sponsored by the Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation Department. Monday, October 31 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., 1060 Chandler Road.
Don’t miss a single reason to love Lake Oswego! Subscribe to my blog by clicking the “Sign me up” button in the top right-hand column. And if you have any questions about moving to Lake Oswego or buying a home in Lake Oswego, give me a call at 503.939.9801 and/or email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com.
THE WEATHER. My wife and I have always insisted that the school schedule in Lake Oswego should run from October 1 through June 30 because the weather in September is not to be missed and sometimes our summer takes a little time to warm up on the other end. So whatever your schedule is in September, be sure to make the most of any opportunity you have to be outdoors. The sometimes harsh sun of July and August gives way to more soothing sunshine that just invites you to settle into a comfortable seat and finish some of the “lake reads” you haven’t gotten a chance to dig into yet.
ART DECKED OUT. The Lakewood Theatre is celebrating its 70-year history with a special event this evening, Sunday, September 11 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the Lakewood Center deck. Andrew Edwards and Steve Knox will open the evening sharing some of the highlights of their experiences followed by a short program of music and comedy with Lake Oswego actress and singer Joan Freed called “The Perils and Passions of Live Theater: 70 Years at Lakewood.” The event is free but tickets are required.
LAKE OSWEGO TEEN LOUNGE OPEN HOUSE. Here’s the perfect opportunity for your sixth through twelfth grader to check out all the Teen Lounge has to offer. All through the month of September, teens can attend clubs, events and classes for free. After September 30, students will be required to purchase a membership or pay a drop-in fee for activities. Regular hours are Monday through Friday, 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Christ Church Parish, 1060 Chandler Road.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FAIR. When Lake Oswego was under a Level 1 evacuation order during the wildfires in September of 2020, we all got a crash course in emergency preparedness, while at the same time perhaps being reminded of how Unprepared we were for an emergency. With that in mind, we might all want to show up at the City of Lake Oswego’s Emergency Preparedness Fair on Thursday, September 15. Twenty information booths will be on hand to educate you on:
Water storage and emergency food options, emergency supply kits, pet preparedness, portable sanitation and seismically retrofitting your home. The City will be giving away approximately 280 BPA-free 3-gallon water containers (limit of one per Lake Oswego household, while supplies last). In addition, they are also giving away 100 one-gallon soft-sided water bags.
How to fill and stack sandbags against flood waters
CPR training
Building a water filtration system
How to protect your home from wildfires
How to use two-way radios for emergency communication
In addition to the learning opportunities, there will be fun activities for the kids including getting up close and personal with city vehicles like a fire truck, street sweeper and police cars and meeting LOPD’s K9 teams.
The event takes place at City Hall, 380 A Avenue on the 3rd floor in the Community Room and in the upper parking lot from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
CULTURAL EXCHANGE. This half-day festival celebrates the diverse culture in the Lake Oswego community with live musical performances, dance, martial arts, artisan and food vendors, nonprofits, community booths and more. Sunday, September 18 from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Millennium Plaza Park, First and Evergreen.
GALLERY WITHOUT WALLS CELEBRATION. Welcome the city’s 12 new sculptures into Lake Oswego’s Gallery Without Walls at this family-friendly event featuring food, fun, artist presentations and hands-on art creations you can take home. The event culminates with docent-led tours of the new artwork to line our city streets. Sunday, September 18 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Lake Oswego City Hall, 380 A Avenue.
LAKE OSWEGO INDOOR TENNIS CENTER GRAND REOPENING. After being closed for renovations, the city’s indoor tennis center is reopening its doors with a new upstairs viewing area for watching the action, a multi-purpose room to host meetings and gatherings and a lobby area to enjoy beverages and snacks after matches. All are invited to the grand reopening celebration complete with self-guided tours, tennis demonstrations and refreshments. Saturday, September 24 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 2900 SW Diane Drive.
THE ADULT COMMUNITY CENTER KITCHEN ACADEMY. Le Cordon Bleu Paris trained and Sysco Culinary Consultant Tselani Richmond will kick off this series of classes on Wednesday, September 28 at 2:00 p.m. with a class on “Preserving the Summer Harvest.” The class will cover fruit and vegetable selection, where to shop, and freezing/canning/pickling. Listen, get some hands-on instruction and the best part is the tasting! Future sessions will cover Plant Based Tasting and Knife Skills. Register online. Fee is $25/Residents; $35/Non-Residents.
LO WINE WALK. While this year’s Wine Walk isn’t until October 1, tickets are on sale now and should be purchased before they sell out! This fun event gives Lake Oswegans a great excuse to get to know local businesses while also getting to know more about wine. Up to 40 locations will be pouring from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $50/person through August 30; $60/person after August 30. They can be purchased through the Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce. https://lakeoswegochamber.com/wine-walk/
BLITHE SPIRIT AT THE LAKEWOOD THEATRE COMPANY. The Lakewood Theatre Company is performing a Noel Coward play through the month of September that’s sure to entertain. Socialite novelist Charles Condomine invites the eccentric medium, Madame Arcati, to his house to conduct a seance, hoping to gather material for his next book. The scheme backfires when he is haunted by the ghost of his annoying and temperamental first wife, Elvira. Runs from September 9 through October 16. Tickets are $25 for Students 25 and under, $36 for Seniors 65 and over and $39 for Adults. Purchase online. https://lakewoodtheatrecompany.csstix.com/
Don’t miss out on a single reason to Love Lake Oswego. Subscribe to my blog by clicking on the “Sign me up” button in the top right-hand column and receive weekly updates to your inbox.
The calendar may say September but it’s Oktoberfest time. How is that? I’ll explain later.
The more important thing is, even if you can’t make it to the Munich celebration this year, you can still raise a pint and dance to some oompah music close to home.
Here are some local Oktoberfest events near Lake Oswego:
KENNEDY SCHOOL OKTOBERFEST. Enjoy German fare at the Kennedy. School’s sixth annual celebration. $25 will buy you a brewfest glass and ten tokens. Check the schedule for live music. Saturday, September 10 from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. 5736 NE 33rd Avenue.
RIDGEFIELD OKTOBERFEST. Just a 40-minute drive will take you to Overlook Park in Ridgefield, the setting for their seventh annual event featuring live music, axe throwing, archery, corn hole tournament, wiener dog races, a costume contest and more. Purchase a VIP pass online for $35 prior to the event. General admission is $15; Kids from 10-21 $10. Saturday, September 10 from 3:00 p.m.to 10:00 p.m.113-131 S. Main Avenue, Ridgefield Washington.
MT. ANGEL OKTOBERFEST. This quaint town of 3,575 morphs into party central for over 300,000 visitors at what has become the largest folk festival in the Northwest. Much of the event is free; however, admission is charged at three of the premium entertainment venues. Over 40 beers are featured as well as 30 wines, all to wash down some traditional German food like sausage, brats and sauerkraut as well as corndogs, Russian perogies, spätzle and marionberry cobbler. Activities include arts and crafts, a car show, Oktoberfest Olympics, street dances and wiener dog races. Check the website for a complete schedule. September 15 – 18. 5 N. Garfield Street, Mt. Angel.
WIDMER BROTHERS OKTOBERFEST. Claiming to be Portland’s longest-running Oktoberfest, Widmer Brothers Brewing will be offering live music, entertainment, food and plenty of Widmer Brothers beers, including Oktoberfest Ale (your only chance to get it!). The event is free of charge to enter but check online for cup and token pricing. September 24 from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. 929 N. Russell Street.
EDGEFIELD OKTOBERFEST.Enjoy live music all day starting at 11:00 a.m. as well as tasty German-style specials and plenty of the sudsy stuff. Estate produce, plants, seeds and gifts from the garden will be on sale along with face painting and balloon art for the kids from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. September 24 at 2126 SW Halsey Street in Troutdale.
FOREST GROVE OKTOBERFEST. Enjoy Bavarian food, drink and entertainment at this community event along with carnival games and some bound-to-be-fun contests like a wiener dog race, adult tricycle race and beer belly contest. September 24 from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 21st Avenue and Main Street.
OAKS PARK OKTOBERFEST. This popular event has been postponed until 2023 due to staffing shortages and supply chain issues.
Now back to why Oktoberfest is held in September. It began as a royal wedding celebration in October 1810; however, as it continued, it was moved earlier and earlier in the fall to take advantage of the longer daylight evening hours and warmer weather. This year the Munich Oktoberfest runs from September 17 through October 3, enough time for revelers to consume almost 2 million gallons of beer.
Thinking of moving to Lake Oswego or selling your home? Let’s get together and talk. I can help you navigate the ever-changing real estate market to help you decide your best move. With over 30 years’ as a Realtor specializing in and living in Lake Oswego I have a perspective and expertise that has helped many clients in their home buying/selling process. You can reach me at 503.939.9801, check my website, or email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com.
Absence makes the heart grow fonder. It’s not like the Lake Oswego Wine Walk needed a couple years of Covid-cancellations to make it any more popular than it already was, but given the two-year gap, ticket sales are going faster than in past years (and it sold out in 2019, the last wine walk). This year’s event is set for October 1 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
What’s a good game plan?
Buy your tickets early. Follow this link and make sure you’re in for this year’s popular event. Tickets are $50/person through August 30; $60/ person after and entitle you to twelve one-ounce pours. By signing up early, you’ll be sure to receive email confirmation once the wine list has been curated so you can start strategizing your game day timeline.
Get your friends to join you. This is a fun, social event, and the perfect excuse to meet up with friends. Things wrap up at 5:00 making it easy to finish the evening off with dinner at one of downtown Lake Oswego’s restaurants. If that sounds like a good idea, best to make reservations now as those spots on weekend nights fill up too.
Check in early. Check-in runs from noon to 4:00 p.m. at the Windward in the common area, 130 A Avenue. When the event kicks off at 2:00 you want to be stationed at your first stop so it’s best to check in early. And in case you haven’t had time to identify what wines you want to taste where, this will give you the extra time you need. Put your favorites at the top of your list just in case supplies run out towards the end of the afternoon.
Check the weather and dress appropriately. Past events have run the gamut from sunny and warm to wet and windy so be sure you’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store. And bring a tote bag to hold any purchases you may pick up along the way.
Make sure to factor in some water stops along the way since as good as wine is, it does dehydrate you. You’ll thank yourself the next day for making sure you’re sipping water as well as wine on your walk.
Be adventurous. This is the perfect excuse to try new things—from wines you may have never tasted to stores you have never visited. There will be up to 40 pouring locations, each featuring different wines as well as a range of food items. Wizer’s Wine is curating the wine list for most of the locations so your taste buds are in good hands.
Take pictures. What better way to commemorate the event and also to remember the wines you really liked! That way next time you’re at the store, you can just open up your photo library and know what you want to purchase.
Don’t miss out on a reason to Love Lake Oswego. Click the “Sign me up” button in the top right-hand column and receive weekly updates to my blog. And if you’re in the market for a house where you can drink all that wine, give me a call at 503.939.9801 or email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com. I’d love to help you discover your own reasons to love this town I’ve called home for over 30 years.
Outdoor dining became a necessity during the beginning stages of Covid. Now with summer here, it’s just something we want to do. Here are some local restaurants that provide outdoor seating. Pull up a chair and stay a while…that’s what summer is meant for.
LAKEVIEW VILLAGE
ST. HONORE’ BOULANGERIE. Grab a seat on the outdoor patio and enjoy some people watching (especially during the Saturday Farmer’s Market) along with your food. The French baking tradition lives on here with offerings like the croque monsieur and salade nicoise as well as puff pastries filled with all sorts of temptations: custard, mousse and fruit fillings. Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily. 315 First Street, Lake Oswego. 503.445.1379.
PIZZERIA SUL LAGO. This spot stays true to Neapolitan-style pizza roots while also honoring the Pacific Northwest bounty. It’s a great people-watching spot looking out on Millennium Plaza Park. 315 1st Street, 503.482.2280.
MANZANNA ROTISSERIE GRILL. Enjoy Northwest specialties served up with fresh ingredients along with a touch of the Southwest with choices like the Santa Fe Chicken Enchilada Stack or the Grilled Chili Rubbed Tri-Tip. Outdoor seating is available on the patio overlooking Lakewood Bay. 305 First Street. 503. 675.3322.
HOLY TACO. Enjoy creative renditions of Latin American dishes and agave focused craft cocktails either indoors or on the large outdoor patio overlooking A Avenue in downtown Lake Oswego. 345 1st Street, 503.675.2726.
CHUCKIE PIES. PDX Eater named this pizza spot one of the 11 restaurants that define Lake Oswego. The wood-fired pizza oven and house-made dough might have something to do with it too. Indoor and outdoor seating. 430 5th Street, 503.342.6207.
BAMBOO SUSHI. Claimed to be the most sustainable seafood restaurant in the world, this restaurant introduced my wife and I to sushi (we highly recommend The Green Machine) and made us repeat customers. Both indoor and outdoor seating. 380 1st Street, 503.387.6565.
DOMAINE SERENE WINE LOUNGE. Designed to be a neighborhood gathering place, you’ll find some outdoor patio seating as well as counter seating at windows that open up to Evergreen in addition to indoor options. The menu includes flights and bites featuring French American cuisine. 300 1st Street, 503.664.7030.
DOWNTOWN LAKE OSWEGO
LAKE OSWEGO ICE CREAMERY. The casual fare here is sure to be popular with the younger crowd. Everything tastes better when accompanied by a milkshake made with local Tillamook ice cream or finished off by a scoop of your favorite flavor. Outdoor seating sits right on busy A Avenue but the kids don’t seem to mind. 37 A Avenue. 503.636.4933.
TUCCI. Regional freshness highlights the Italian cuisine with such favorites as Veal Milanese, Ciopinno and Chocolate Polenta Cake. Patio seating feels tucked in and the lighting at night creates just the right ambiance. 220 A Avenue. 503.697.3383.
THE DULLAHAN IRISH PUB. This is your stop for traditional Irish fare like Guinness Irish Stew, Corned Beef and Cabbage and Fish N’ Chips. Oh, and did I mention the beer? Picnic tables strewn across the front and side yards invite casual summer dining (and did I mention the beer?) 352 B Avenue. 503.305.8087.
BAIRD’S ON B. If you’re lucky, you can snag a spot on their porch for either happy hour or dinner featuring a variety of contemporary, northwest American fare with an emphasis on local and seasonal products. 485 Second Street, 503.303.4771.
LOLA’S CAFÉ BAR. This place is usually hopping with quite a bit of covered outdoor patio seating (heated when needed) where you can enjoy their menu options, many of which cater towards vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free eaters. 525 3rd Street, 503.780.8279.
DUKE’S PUBLIC HOUSE. This family friendly sports bar offers regioinal American cuisine with a side order of entertainment (as in big screen TV’s for game-watching) and games like corn hole and life size Jenga. Enjoy outdoor seating in a heated covered patio with fire pit. 560 A Avenue, 503.387.5771.
BESO BAR AND BOTTLE. Enjoy wine by the glass and/or food from a European-inspired kitchen indoors or on the heated patio. 148 B Avenue, Suite 200, 503.342.6282.
NICOLETTA’S TABLE. This Italian trattoria has spacious indoor as well as outdoor patio seating where you can relax and enjoy some of the best Italian dishes Lake Oswego has to offer. 333 State Street, Suite M, 503.699.2927.
WILLAMETTE VALLEY VINEYARDS. Enjoy sustainable wine and Pacific Northwest inspired cuisine at Lake Oswego’s newest spot for oenophiles.While the focus is on what’s happening inside, there is also patio seating and an outdoor fire pit . 55 S. State Street, Suite 3105, 503.387.5182.
LAKEFRONT
STICKMEN’S LAKESIDE SMOKEHOUSE AND BREWERY. This restaurant and brew house features an outdoor patio deck overlooking Oswego Lake where you can enjoy house-smoked barbecue and in-house brewed craft beer. 40 N. State Street. 503.344.4449.
LAKE THEATER AND CAFÉ. Although you’ll find movies heralded on their marquee, this placealso takes its food seriously. You can eat it while watching a movie or just chill in their indoor café seating or on their outdoor deck overlooking Lakewood Bay. 106 N. State Street, 503.387.3236.
LAKE GROVE
RICCARDO’S RISTORANTE. Riccardo and Georgette Spaccarelli have been dishing up Italian favorites like Saltimbocca di Vitello and Spaghetti con Vongole since 1980. Local wine connoisseurs swear by their Italian wine selection. All of it tastes better when served al fresco on the terra cotta tiled patio. 16035 Boones Ferry Rd. 503.636.4104.
JEFE. Enjoy authentic Mexican style cooking for breakfast, lunch and dinner from huevos rancheros to enchiladas and tamales. Covered patio seating in the breezeway alongside the restaurant is a great spot to nurse a margarita while practicing your Spanish. 16360 Boones Ferry Rd. 503.635.1900.
LA PROVENCE. This place has been hopping since it opened in its new location in the recently renovated shopping center on the corner of Bryant Road and Boones Ferry. Both bakery and bistro seem popular with locals lining up to order croissants, omelets, potato tartiflettes, and pork medaillons. Petite entrees start at $6.50 and are designed to be shared. Gluten free options are available too. Weather permitting, patio seating is always a coveted spot. 16350 Boones Ferry Rd. 503.635.4533
BABICA HEN. Check out this breakfast and lunch spot featuring fresh baked goods (including gluten-free cupcakes and muffins) and waffles served all day long (gluten-free options available). 15964 Boones Ferry Rd. 503.636.4012.
GUBANC’S. With the Boones Ferry renovation, this 40-year restaurant was able to add outdoor seating to guests who regularly visit to enjoy their from-scratch meals using local, fresh, organic ingredients. 16008 Boones Ferry Road, 503.635.2102.
GIANT BURGER. I’ve written about Giant Burger’s appeal here before. Check it out for reasons why you might want to sit on one of the outdoor picnic tables and enjoy the burgers that seem to make the local Top Burgers list by food-lovers in the know. 15840 Boones Ferry Rd. 503.636.0255.
PINE SHED RIBS AND BARBECUE. Christened “best barbecue in PDX” by Portland Monthly magazine, Pine Shed Ribs offers outdoor picnic tables for savoring their popular meat-lovers fare including ribs, pulled pork, brisket, bacon, pastrami, sausage, and chicken. Sauces are gluten free.17730 Pilkington Rd. 503.635.7427.
AJI TRAM. This Lake Grove neighborhood spot features a mix of flavors from various Asian cuisines resulting in a contemporary Asian fusion menu with a new-age American twist. There is indoor dining and wall panels that open up on really nice days as well as a few outdoor tables. 44776 SW Lakeview Blvd., 503.342.6249.
DENO’S PIZZERIA. There are a few outdoor tables in front of this popular Lake Grove pizzeria that’s been run by the Valentine family for three generations. Good things bear repeating. 4475 Lakeview Blvd., 503.635.6219
MERCATO GROVE. 4055 Mercantile Drive
TASTY. An all-day eatery with an eclectic menu, inspired by world-travels, celebrating the bounty of the Pacific Northwest. Both indoor and outdoor seating. 503.305.5298.
OVEN AND SHAKER. This pizza joint features wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza with hand tossed dough made with a 70-year-old sourdough starter, cooked off in an imported Milanese wood-burning oven for the perfect crust. Indoor and outdoor seating. 503.305.6212.
LARDO. This place specializes in sandwiches with a menu that features pork-drenched double burgers, fried mortadella, Italian tuna melt, and porchetta to name a few. Most sandwiches can double as a “salad” if carbs are not your thing. Both indoor and outdoor seating. 503.303.9277.
LAC ST. JACK. Features French faire, fresh seafood, delicious cocktails, excellent wine and a lively atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. 503.387.3038.
FILLS. Well known for berliner-style donuts—filled and topped with fruit, chocolate or custard—plus breakfast sandwiches, burgers and fries. Lots of seating on the outdoor patio. 503.305.8347.
KRUSE VILLAGE
TAVERN ON KRUSE. Enjoy live jazz along with farm-to-table fare seven nights a week during the summer on two large patios here that seat 100. Open for lunch and happy hour as well. 4835 Meadows Rd., #133, 503.303.5280.
Lake Oswego has lots to offer not just in outdoor dining but also in recreation, schools, and housing. If you’d like to explore Lake Oswego and consider moving here, please give me a call at 503.939.9801 or email me at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com. I’ve been a Realtor in Lake Oswego for over 30 years and would love to put my experience to work for you!
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 