LOBSTER AND CLAM BAKE. Take advantage of summer weather and get tickets for one of Zupan’s four-course Dinners in the Breezeway. Lobster and Clam Bake usually sells out! Saturday, September 7 at 6:00 p.m. 16380 Boones Ferry Road. $150/person. Buy tickets online.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FAIR. Be prepared for anything with the help of the city’s Emergency Preparedness Fair in honor of National Preparedness Month. Thursday, September 5 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Lake Oswego City Hall and upper parking lot, 380 A Avenue. Highlights include:
•Big Shaker Earthquake Simulator that recreates the intense shaking of an 8.0 earthquake.
•Hands-only CPR training
•Water container and bag giveaway in addition to information on water storage and emergency food options, emergency supply kits, pet preparedness, portable sanitation and seismically retrofitting your home
•Water shut-off demonstration
•Fire obstacle courage to practice safely exiting your home during a fire
•Meet the LOPD’s K9 Team(s)
TREE WORKSHOPS. The City is sponsoring two tree workshops this month on the Tree Protection Plans and Tree Code Violations (September 12 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in Lake Oswego City Hall Council Chamber, 380 A Avenue) and Tree Pruning (September 14 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Foothills Park Pavilion, 199 Foothills Road). Register for both.
CULTURAL XCHANGE FESTIVAL. This multicultural festival features traditional dance and music performances, artisan and food vendors, nonprofits and more! Bring the whole family! Sunday, September 15 from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in Millennium Plaza Park, 200 1st Street.
GALLERY WITHOUT WALLS ROTATING EXHIBIT CELEBRATION. Celebrate the newest additions to the city’s Gallery Without Walls on display for a two-year rotation. Saturday, September 21 from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Arts Council of Lake Oswego, 380 A Avenue, Suite A.
BORDEAUX DINNER IN THE BREEZEWAY. Enjoy an all-inclusive four-course dinner, plus wine pairings outdoors in Zupan’s breezeway. Saturday, September 21 at 6:00 p.m. 16380 Boones Ferry Road. $150/person. Buy tickets online.
WELLNESS FAIR. The cities of Lake Oswego and West Linn are joining forces to present a day of mini-demonstrations, exhibits and connections to help residents learn more about the health and wellness opportunities in our communities. Sunday, September 29 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Millennium Plaza Park, 200 1st Street.
LO WINE WALK 2024. The event isn’t until October 5th but it’s never too early to buy your tickets as last year’s walk sold out! There will be up to 40 pouring locations offering close to 8p international and domestic wines to choose from. Your $60 ticket gets you 12 one-ounce tastings. Buy your tickets online. Saturday, October 5 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Watch here for more details.
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Looking for ways to squeeze more fun for your family during the last days of summer vacation? Amber Hambrick, the City’s Behavioral Health Specialist has put together a list of over 60 fun things to do to keep the kids happy and parents from going crazy. They include:
TAKE A NATURE WALK. Pair it with some storytime by visiting West Waluga Park and taking in the latest StoryWalk® installation, “Like You, Like Me” by Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw one step at a time. 15775 Waluga Drive.
MAKE S’MORES. Looking for a way to upgrade your s’mores experience? Visit 1927 S’mores Company in Portland where the summer s’more lineup includes PB&J, Lemon Berry and Lemon Poppy seed as well as the classics. 1126 SW Alder Street.
MAKE A TREASURE HUNT. Read one of my earlier blogs for a scavenger hunt itinerary right here in Lake Oswego.
PICNIC AT A PARK. You’ll find a great list of suggestions on this blog – add Foothills Park to the picnic table list at 199 Foothills Drive. Or how about a picnic breakfast? Maybe picnics are ho-hum for dinner, but breakfast? Now your kids will think you’ve come up with a cool idea. You can pick up something yummy at La Provence, St. Honoré or Kyra’s Bake Shop, make a coffee stop at Ovation or Morse, and then head over to one of the parks on that list!
Here are a couple of my suggestions.
REDO DAY. This one might take a little planning but have everyone submit their favorite memories from this summer and then see how many of them you can incorporate into one day. Maybe stipulate it has to be memories created in and around Lake Oswego to keep it feasible.
LAST CHANCE DAY. Instead of repeating things you’ve already done, here’s everyone’s chance to cast their vote for doing something they haven’t had a chance to do yet this summer. Maybe you’ve been meaning to try one of those smoothies from Lola’s Café Bar or visit one of our swim parks before they close. Or you haven’t gotten around yet to checking out the newer lower soft trail at Iron Mountain Park that intersects with the Iron Mountain/Springbrook Park Loop. The time for procrastinating is gone—just do it!
House hunting can also be a fun way to see the summer out and we’re happy to oblige by showing you and your family around. Just give us a call or email us. We’d love to help!
Kevin Costello 503.939.9801 kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com
My wife and I recently returned from three weeks traveling to some of Europe’s most beloved cities including Lisbon, Seville and Rome. We were not alone. The summer crush was on and we considered people-watching as much an activity as sightseeing.
What we saw were people enjoying the exploration of a new place and being sure to document it. The lineup of selfie-takers at the Trevi Fountain never let up from sunrise to sundown.
And we found ourselves asking, what makes a city great? Of course these cities have history and amazing food but what else is at work that serves almost as a magnet to draw visitors as well as residents in.
According to urban planner Alex Garvin, it’s “the public realm—streets, squares, parks.” In other words, the spaces that belong to all of us.
Which made us think of Lake Oswego.
We certainly don’t have the size or the history of a European city but we do have 645 acres of Parks properties at over 36 different sites. And we have Millennium Plaza Square which is anchored by the Fortuna sculpture/fountain as well as the one located down the steps on State Street and is the site of a wide variety of programming from the Farmers’ Market to concerts to outdoor movies to Christmas tree lighting.
Garvin goes on to explain the six steps to create these amazing spaces that make a city great.
They need to be open to anyone. Just take a look at the cross-section of people who gather at the summer Farmers’ Market and you’ll see we meet that criterion.
They need to have something for everyone. From Santa visits in December to moonlight concerts in the summer, the age range is covered.
They need to attract and maintain demand. Every year the reserved spots for the horse-drawn carriage rides leaving from Millennium Plaza sell out. The Star Spangled Celebration on the 4th of July draws crowds in to enjoy musical entertainment, a pie-eating contest and more. If the City of Lake Oswego plans it, they will come.
They need a framework for urbanization, to allow for surrounding development. Lakeview Village with its restaurants and shops gives visitors another reason to explore. And the North Anchor Project will be another extension of the life Millennium Plaza breathes into our city. Admittedly with A Avenue running right through this urban core, the walkability that European centers offer cannot be replicated; however, the City has a vision for doing the best with how the city is laid out.
They need to be a sustainable, living environment. Thanks to our wonderful Parks and Recreation staff and maintenance crew, the park is well-maintained and inviting to all who visit.
They need to nurture a civil society. By bringing people together, the park does just that as well as with the programming it provides like the recent Juneteenth celebration and the upcoming Cultural Xchange Festival in September.
Lake Oswego is a great place to live. Take it from us. We’ve lived and worked here for over 30 years and would love to help you call Lake Oswego home. Please reach out.
We work with many homebuyers moving to Lake Oswego from out of state. What brings them here?
•Family or friends who live here and sing its praises
•Job relocation to the Portland metro area
•This blog which has helped many clients “discover” Lake Oswego
•Desire to live in a safe community with good schools
And the list goes on….
We love sitting down with homebuyers looking to relocate to not only educate them about the area but also to share our enthusiasm for this place we call home. Here are some of the questions we most often get asked:
How much home can I buy with the budget I have? Currently there are 182 homes for sale in Lake Oswego ranging from $237,000 for a 2-bedroom 2-bath 984 square foot condo/townhome to $11,500,000 for a 9-bedroom, 11-bath 19,444 square foot home. The median sale price of $1,030,000 might get you a 4-bedroom 3-bath 3,004 square foot home in the Palisades neighborhood with easement rights to the Palisades Park Community Club. It’s important for buyers to know what their priorities are in buying a home as certain amenities like lake access, walkability, views, are going to cost more and may mean that concessions will have to be made. When my wife and I first moved here, being on the water was our number one criterion which meant we ended up in a dated cottage on one of the canals. We gave up square footage and traded Formica countertops for quartz. But that was okay with us because lake access was most important. So one of the first things we do when working with buyers is identify their priorities in a home. Part of that job involves educating them to the options they have here as not all cities have access to a lake or community pools or neighborhoods that are walkable to restaurants and shopping. The fact that we have lived and worked here for over 35 years means we can inform buyers of the options and their costs and let them make informed decisions.
What if I still own my home in another state – can I make a contingent offer? Coming in with a contingent offer on a home can weaken your position, especially if a home if new on the market. If however, a home has been sitting for a while, sellers may consider it. A better option, if a buyer has equity in their home is to obtain a bridge loan or a home equity line of credit. Buyers assume a short-term cost but it strengthens their position. Of course, they would only want to take up that option if they were confident that the market in their home state is strong and that their house there will sell fairly quickly.
Having easement rights is important to me – do all houses have them? Not all houses have easement rights. Neighborhoods like Westlake and the First Addition do not have easement rights. Areas on the south side of the lake like Westridge, Bryant Woods, most of River Grove do not enjoy easement rights. The Hallinan and Glenmorrie areas also have little to no easements. Easement rights were established to attract buyers in the 30s, 40s and 50s. Some homes have none; others have rights to several easements. There are a few ways to determine what areas have easement rights. You can check easement boundaries on this map. You can type in a street address on the Lake Corporation website. In addition, a real estate listing will mention if a particular home for sale has easement rights. You can read more about easements in several of our earlier blogs here or here.
How much is an easement worth? Before the popularity of paddleboards and kayaks, the appraiser of a home would probably add $5,000 to the value of a home for easement rights. Now an easement can add value to a house anywhere from $25,000 to $100,000. More and more buyers are wanting that amenity which is driving its value.
What are the best schools? Best neighborhoods? The great thing about Lake Oswego is you can’t go wrong when it comes to schools and neighborhoods. The Lake Oswego School District was once again named the best school district in Oregon with an overall grade of A+. With two high schools, two junior highs and seven elementary schools, students have all kinds of opportunities, including the district’s only elementary school world language immersion program. Neighborhood amenities vary from views, walkability, community pools, freeway access, so it’s important to work with an experienced Realtor who can narrow your search in the neighborhoods that have the amenities you desire.
How are property taxes calculated here? Measure 50 passed in 1997 and stabilized all property values in the state with the allowance that they could go up a maximum of 3% per year if they appreciated. Some municipalities can increase their taxes by passing bonds for schools, police, public improvements. Property tax bills provide a real market value and an assessed value. Taxes are determined based on the assessed value which is set by the county. The only way they can be reassessed is if the homeowner does a major remodel or tears the house down and builds a new home.
Thinking of moving to Lake Oswego? Get your questions answered by reaching out to one of us.
SWIM PARKS ARE STILL OPEN. Go jump in the lake at either the Lake Oswego Swim Park at 250 Ridgeway Road open to all Lake Oswego residents through August 31 or else the Lake Grove Swim Park at 3800 Lakeview Blvd. open to all LOSD students and residents within the original Lake Grove School District boundaries through August 25.
COMMUNITY MEETING: CARMAN DRIVE/PILKINGTON ROAD PATHWAYS. Residents have an opportunity to share their feedback on preliminary design ideas for new pathways along Carman Drive, from Waluga Drive to Quarry Road, and Pilkington Road, from Boones Ferry to Willow Roads. Thursday, August 1 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Lake Oswego Maintenance Center, Willow Room, 17601 Pilkington Road.
MOVIES IN THE PARK. Bring family and friends to enjoy an outdoor movie in one of Lake Oswego’s parks. Popcorn is free and additional candy and refreshments will be available to purchase. Movies begin at dusk, @8:45 p.m.
Thursday, August 1 in Millennium Plaza Park: Kung Fu Panda 4
Thursday, August 8 in Foothills Park: Wonka.
FIRST SUNDAY MARKET IN LAKE GROVE. Enjoy theme-based farmers’ market events on the first Sunday of the month for the next four months on Hallmark Drive in Lake Oswego, just next to Mercato Grove. Highlights include your favorite farmers, artisan vendors, expanded kid activities, entertainment, and beer and wine garden. Hours are from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Here’s the lineup and check here for more details:
August 4: Pet-a-palooza
September 1: Back to School Block Party
October 6: Sip and Shop
November 3: Fall Harvest
HOT AUGUST NIGHT. This annual party on the lake is featuring the sounds of thepopular party band, Precious Byrd. Saturday, August 3 beginning at 6:00 p.m. Location to be announced closer to the event.
ZUPAN’S LOBSTER AND CLAM BAKE. This popular dining event in the Zupan breezeway usually sells out and features an all-inclusive four-course dinner plus wine pairings. Reception at 6:00; dinner at 6:30. Tickets $150 and available online. 16380 Boones Ferry Road.
SUMMER CONCERTS IN THE PARK. Take in the sounds while enjoying our beautiful summer weather in one of Lake Oswego’s parks.
Sunday, August 4 in Millennium Plaza Park: Hillstomp (country blues) from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, August 7 in Westlake Park: Chris Baum Project (soul/R&B) from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, August 14 in Westlake Park: Beat Division (80s cover band) from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, August 18 in Millennium Plaza Park: Mbrascatu (fusion of various influences from indie rock to world music) from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, August 21 in Westlake Park: Ants in the Kitchen (rock, soul, funk cover band) from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, August 28 in Westlake Park: Stone in Love (Journey tribute band) from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
WATER POLO TOURNAMENT. Watch the action near Lakewood Bay docks beginning at 9:00 a.m. on August 10 and August 11.
POP-UP CONCERTS ON THE LAKE. If you’ve got a boat on the lake or know someone who does, you’re in luck. Concerts start at 6:00 p.m. with locations announced prior to event.
Saturday, August 10: Red Light Romeos (70s FM album-oriented rock classics)
Saturday, August 30: Swimfish (folk/rock)
SUMMER READING LIBRARY CHALLENGE CELEBRATION PARTIES. Two celebrations are planned –one for kids from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Rossman Park on Wednesday, August 14 and one for adults from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the library, 706 Fourth Street.
TREE REMOVAL PERMITS WORKSHOP. As much as we love our trees here in Lake Oswego, sometimes we need to remove one. Learn about the City’s tree code requirements for tree removal permits including the criteria and how to complete the application checklist. Pre-registration is required and capacity is limited to 30 participants in-person or Zoom.
FREE JOB RESOURCES FOR CAREER SUCCESS FROM YOUR LIBRARY. Learn more about how the library can help with your job search from online skill-building tools to personalized tech assistance. Sunday, April 18 from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Lake Oswego Public Library, 706 Fourth Street.
2024 COLLECTOR CAR AND CLASSIC BOAT SHOW. The Oswego Heritage Council helps us close out the summer lineup of events with their annual event bringing collector cars and classic boats together in Lake Oswego. See collector cars in George Rogers Park and classic boats in Sundeleaf Plaza from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 25.
ADULT CRAFT: PASTA MAKER PRINTING. Who says kids get to have all the fun? Join Lake Oswego librarian April Younglove for a class using recycled plastic and a pasta maker to create prints that look like etchings. Limited to 10 people on a first-come, first-serve basis for ages 13+. For more information contact Younglove at ayounglove@lakeowego.city or 503.534.5667. Sunday, August 25 at 2:00 p.m. Lake Oswego Library, 706 Fourth Street.
Thinking of buying or selling a home in Lake Oswego? We’d love to help. Please reach out and discover what a team committed to making your next move your best one can do!
Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com 503.939.9801
Lake Oswego’s beautiful summer weather is meant to be enjoyed which is why so many Lake Oswego restaurants offer outdoor dining. Here are some local spots that provide dining al fresco. 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 quiche lorraine as well as puff pastries filled with all sorts of temptations: custard, mousse and fruit fillings, not to mention my weakness—the maple bacon croissant. Hours: 6:30 a.m to 6:00 p.m. daily. 315 First Street, Lake Oswego. 503.445.1379.
PIZZERIA SUL LAGO. This place 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.
LAKE VIEW TAPHOUSE. Taking over Manzana Rotisserie Grill’s former location, this new entry to Lake Oswego’s dining scene offers a large tap selection of local microbrews, creative cocktails, ciders and wines along with lunch, dinner and brunch food options including shared plate opportunities. Outdoor seating is available on the patio overlooking Lakewood Bay. 305 First Street. 503. 744.4873.
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 – I personally recommend the Risotto! 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 wine tasting and wine and food pairings at this popular spot for Lake Oswego oenophiles.While the focus is on what’s happening inside, there is also trellis patio seating and an outdoor fire pit . 55 S. State Street, Suite 3105, 503.387.5182.
LAKEFRONT
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 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 location in the on the corner of Bryant Road and Boones Ferry. Both bakery and bistro seem popular with locals lining up to order croissants, omelets, potato tartelettes, and pork medallions. 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 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 from-scratch meals using local, fresh, organic ingredients. 16008 Boones Ferry Road, 503.635.2102.
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.
HOP N’ CORK. This neighborhood family-friendly taproom offers good food, rotating taps featuring beers from local breweries as well as wine and cocktails. Limited outdoor seating fills up fast on good-weather days. 17450 Lower Boones Ferry Rd., 503.305.5903.
MERCATO GROVE. 4055 Mercantile Drive
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 popular items like the BBQ Smash Burger and Pork Meatball Banh Mi to name a few. Both indoor and outdoor seating. 503.303.9277.
KRUSE VILLAGE
TAVERN ON KRUSE. Enjoy 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. Enjoy live music Saturdays and Sundays. 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 one of us a call or email. We’ve lived and worked in Lake Oswego for over 30 years and would love to put our insights and experience to work for you!
NPR’s Marketplace takes listeners “beyond the numbers, bringing you the context.” Let me try to do the same with the Lake Oswego real estate numbers.
44 – That is the median number of days the current inventory of homes has been on the market. Of the homes that have sold, 27.5 is the median number of days they were on the market which is actually 22 more days than the homes that sold in June of last year. That speaks to the tug higher interest rates continue to have on the market.
50 – is the number of homes that sold in Lake Oswego in June, a 43% increase over the 35 that sold in June of 2023.
12% – is the percentage increase in the median sale price of homes sold in June of 2024 compared to June of 2023. That median sale price was $1,065,000.
3.6 – is the months of inventory currently on the market, meaning the number of homes for sale relative to the amount of homes purchased which puts us in a balanced market.
73 – is the number of price changes in the Lake Oswego/West Linn housing market in just one day last week which speaks to the higher inventory and the need for sellers to rely on Realtor’s estimated market values versus what they think they’d like to get. It also tells buyers that there is room for negotiation on many homes listed.
13 – is the number of homes that went back on the market in one day last week which usually happens because (a) a sale fails due to buyers walking away or (b) a seller putting a house back on the market after taking it off for a bit. Sales fail for a variety of reasons from issues that arise during an inspection that can’t be negotiated to a buyer not qualifying for financing to a simple case of cold feet.
37 – is the number of new listings that came on the market in one day last week. It appears that for every new listing there were two price changes to existing listings so it’s a dynamic market with adjustments being made on a daily basis.
For the rest of the year, people need to understand that this market is changing. Even though the median price is going up, it doesn’t tell the whole story. Many houses are selling for less than seller expectations and for good reason. Interest rates put a crimp on affordability for buyers and sellers need to take that into consideration when pricing their home. A buyer qualifies for 40% less than they did two years ago. Think about those implications. A good Realtor will tell you what you need to hear but it may not necessarily always be what you want to hear.
Working with an experienced hyperlocal Realtor is more important than ever whether you are buying or selling a home in Lake Oswego and the Portland metro area. If you’re thinking of entering the market, please get in touch. We’d love to make sure your next move is your best one!
Every week we post another reason to love Lake Oswego. It comes easily to us because we live here and we are Realtors here. So, not that we need it, but sometimes we are reminded of why we love calling this place home.
And one such reminder came this month on the 4th of July. We showed up at the Lions’ Club Pancake Breakfast in George Rogers Park at 8:30, about 30 minutes after kickoff. And already the line was a couple hundred people long. By the time we left, the line resembled more of the weave of a Disneyland line as the throngs of residents and visitors across all ages showed up to carry on or start an annual tradition.
Kids were juggling in the middle of the crowd, grandmas were leading toddlers over to the band to bop and sway with the tunes, volunteers were passing out coffee to people waiting in line. The party in front of us was a dozen strong, mostly out-of-towners who trek to Lake Oswego every 4th to partake in the festivities and compete in two teams in a series of games in a waterfront backyard.
From there we trekked over to the Star Spangled Festival and Parade heading down A Avenue and just beamed with a sense of pride and satisfaction at the crowds lined up to cheer the marching bands, floats and decorated wagons while they jockeyed for candy and visited with neighbors.
Between the breakfast and parade, it seemed the whole city was out in force.
My wife and I have lived here for over 35 years and in that time we have seen the 4th of July traditions grow. We’ve also seen the kids we used to bring to the festivities now bring their own kids, trying to keep that magic alive they experienced when they were young. It reinforces what we felt when we moved here. Lake Oswego is a great place to raise a family. The 4th of July festivities are just one example but a very visual one and it just struck us both smack dab in the face and in our hearts.
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MILLENNIUM CONCERT BAND. Kick off the 4th of July festivities with a patriotic concert performed by Lake Oswego’s own Millennium Concert Band. The performance includes the Presentation of Colors by the Lake Oswego Honor Guard as well as a tribute to those who have served. Wednesday, July 3 at 7:00 p.m. in Millennium Plaza Park.
LIONS CLUB PANCAKE BREAKFAST. Be part of a 75-year tradition by queuing up in line in George Rogers Park for the annual Lake Oswego Lions Club 4th of July Pancake Breakfast. Enjoy all the pancakes and sausage you can eat for only $10 ($7 for children under 12) along with coffee, milk and orange juice. Proceeds benefit the Lake Oswego Lions Club and their VIsionEnvoy Club Branch to help provide vision and hearing assistance to neighbors who can’t afford the care they need and support local food pantries and other charities. Thursday, July 4 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at George Rogers Park, 611 State Street.
STAR SPANGLED PARADE. Be part of the sea of red, white and blue coursing down A Avenue by either entering or cheering on the annual Star-Spangled Parade. All the parade favorites will be there from festive floats, musical entertainment, classic cars, costumed canines and candy tossers. The festivities continue after the parade at Millennium Plaza Park with music, face painting, food trucks and the annual Pie Eating contest. Thursday, July 4; Staging begins at 9:00 a.m.; Parade at 10:00 a.m. Millennium Plaza Park, 200 First Street; however, parade works its way down A Avenue from 10th Street.
4th OF JULY BOAT PARADE. Catch patriotic-decked boats head out from the Lake Oswego marina starting at 12:00 p.m. and proceeding along the northern shore until reaching the Lake Grove Swim Park before returning back to where it began. Thursday, July 4 at 12:00 p.m.
INDEPENDENCE DAY ILLUMINATION: A CONCERT AND LASER LIGHT SHOW. The City moves the party to Foothills Park for the 4th of July closer—a concert from Kalimba followed by a laser light show in the sky. Other activities include food trucks, face painting and more. Thursday, July 4 from 8:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. 199 Foothills Road.
4th OF JULY FIREWORKS. Hosted by the Lake Oswego Corporation and held on the west end of the Main Lake, fireworks are shot from a floating barge and put on a fantastic show for boaters and well-situated lake residents. Tuesday, July 4 @ 9:45 p.m.
SKI and WAKEBOARD EXTRAVAGANZA. Grab a viewing spot of the action in Lakewood Bay at Sundeleaf Plaza, the Lake Theatre and Café, or Millennium Plaza Park on Saturday, July 6 beginning at 10:00 a.m. (ski show) and 1:00 p.m. (wakeboard) in Lakewood Bay. Stick around for the Portland Water Spectacular Ski Show at 5:00 p.m. as a team of skiers performs tricks, barefoot skiing, jumps and skiing pyramids.
SUMMER OF MUSIC CONCERT SERIES at MILLENNIUM PLAZA. Enjoy the sounds of Barrio Mestizo at Millennium Plaza Park on Sunday, July 7 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. followed by Norman Sylvester on July 21. Bring your beach chairs, blankets and settle in for an evening of entertainment. 200 First Street.
SUMMER OF MUSIC CONCERT SERIES at FOOTHILLS PARK. Singer-songwriter Curtis Salgado brings his popular and award-winning sound to Foothills Park on Wednesday, July 10 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. followed by Barracuda on July 17, Andy Stokes on July 24 and Hit Machine on July 31. 199 Foothills Road.
POP-UP CONCERT SERIES ON THE LAKE. Boats gather to enjoy the sounds of The Yachtsmen at a location announced 30 minutes before it begins on July 19 beginning at 6:00 p.m.
MOVIES IN THE PARK. Take in one of our glorious warm summer evenings with family and friends by enjoying Finding Dory in the park. Bring blankets, pillows and low beach chairs for an entertaining night under the stars. Popcorn is free; treats, candy and beverages are available for purchase. Movie begins at dusk, @ 8:45 p.m.Thursday, July 25 Westlake Park, 14165 Bunick Drive.
PORTLAND FESTIVAL SYMPHONY. A collaboration of 65 of Portland’s finest classical musicians from the Oregon Symphony, the Portland Operate Orchestra and musician’s union Local 99, bring their sounds to Foothills Park for all to enjoy. Audience participation is encouraged with children invited to join the orchestra at a selected time by playing flutes and other instruments which are given out for children to play and take home as souvenirs. Saturday, July 27 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Outside food and drink, including beer/wine/cider permitted; however, no spirits. Check online for parking options. 199 Foothills Road.
OPS FEST. See Shakespeare like never before, using techniques during Shakespeare’s own time such as limited rehearsal, an onstage prompter, fast-paced, energetic acting and lots of audience interaction. Twelfth Night at 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 28 at Roehr Park (350 Oswego Pointe Drive) followed by Romeo and Juliet on Friday, August 9 at George Rogers Park (611 S. State Street).
July in Lake Oswego is just one of the many reasons to love living here. Let us show you many more. Subscribe to our blog and reach out if you’re interested in learning more about moving to Lake Oswego. We’ve lived and worked here for over 30 years and would love to put our experience as Lake Oswego Realtors to work for you!
Kevin Costello. kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com 503.939.9801
Here in Lake Oswego we live for summer nights which I explain in a previous blog. With warm weather, longer days and no bugs to annoy us, Lake Oswegans are looking for things to do.
The Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation Department comes to the rescue with movies in the park and their summer concert series.
MOVIES IN THE PARK (movies start at dusk, @ 8:45 p.m.)
July 25
Finding Dory
Westlake Park
August 1
Kung Fu Panda 4
Millennium Plaza Park
August 8
Wonka
Foothills Park
SUMMER MUSIC CONCERT SERIES
July 4
Kalimba
8:00 – 10:30 p.m.
Foothills Park
July 7
Barrio Mestizo
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Millennium Plaza Park
July 10
Cutis Salgado
7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Foothills Park
July 17
Barracuda
7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Foothills Park
July 21
Norman Sylvester
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Millennium Plaza Park
July 24
Andy Stokes
7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Foothills Park
July 27
Portland Festival Symphony
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Foothills Park
July 31
Hit Machine
7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Foothills Park
August 4
Hillstomp
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Millennium Plaza Park
August 7
Chris Baum Project
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Westlake Park
August 14
Beat Division
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Westlake Park
August 18
Mbrascatu
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Millennium Plaza Park
August 21
Ants in the Kitchen
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Westlake Park
August 28
Stone in Love
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Westlake Park
Westlake Park – 14165 Bunick Drive
Millennium Plaza Park – 200 First Street
Foothills Park – 199 Foothills Road
Don’t miss a thing happening in Lake Oswego this summer. Subscribe to our blog and get weekly updates.
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 