Need insights re: Pdx pied-a-terre in NW/SW areas (Portland: real estate, rental)

[Salal]

Hi, Trying to sort out this forum process (very old school person--not so much "old" but definitely "old school"). We are hoping to gain some perspective from locals on neighborhoods to investigate for upcoming condo purchase. Need some place that has amenities/shops within walking distance. Delivered a conference paper at PSU and fell in love with Portland. We have returned a few times during diff. seasons and like the upper SW Goose Hollow and NW up the hill sections. We have seen some very small condos in older buildings near NW 23rd (and around the hospital), and they are reminiscent of parts of the Bay area--a good thing for walkability and public transport access. Just wondering if these areas have a reputation for being snobbish and/or tourist-saturated? We are comfortable everywhere and cope well with all environments (all over world), so this is just a broad rumination. There are some appealing places on the SW hill, heading up toward the park (close to the big stucco Envoy building); again, not sure if there are any "sub-texts" for these areas that we should know. Investments secure up there? All help is appreciated. Thanks. Salal

[Yankeemama]

I think I read in Portland Monthly, a few months back in issue on upcoming neighborhoods in Portland and on neighborhoods that hold their value, NW area is high on that list. I am trying to get my mom to move to that area. I am from S.F. originally. The NW reminds me of the trendy area of Union Street and the Fillmore. Every amenity is in that neighborhood. Please read Nell Plotts and Minervah on this forum for real estate info. I am sure they know about the condos in which you are inquiring. Portland is beautiful and different from the Bay Area. It is special in it's own way. Sounds like you have found that out for yourself. Please ask as many questions on this forum. I have found people to very helpful. Good luck!

[Nell Plotts]

I have lived in NW Portland & close-in SW for over 45 years not including absences for college, NYC & Puget Sound. I love the area, saw families move out of the mansions of the past, some streets in the flats get seedy, then people realized what a treasure it is and move back.

We recently down-sized so visited a number of properties. Our criteria included single level/accessibility (looking ahead) so there were some we didn't visit. Also, we are wary of buildings constructed during the housing boom because I fear shortcuts were taken and few conversions from rental housing have the room sizes we want. Because I have opinions about specific properties if Salal would PM me we can talk.