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Life In Oregon
Summer in the Pacific Northwest has a rhythm all its own, and if you know what's in season, you know it's time to grab a flat, load up the car, and head out to a u-pick farm.
Whether you're hunting for sun-warmed strawberries, blueberries by the bucketful, or a flower bouquet you cut yourself, the Portland-Vancouver area delivers. Here's your guide to some of the best spots to get your hands dirty this season.
In Portland, your neighborhood is not just where you unwind at the end of the day. For locals it’s where they build their day-to-day life. The quickest way to feel at home is to lean into that mindset: find your go-to coffee shop, your favorite bike route, and your regular hangouts nearby. Then let those routines turn into familiar faces and real connections.
Spring in the Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, Washington real estate market can feel intense, but it does not have to be overwhelming. This blog shares Urban Nest’s top tips for staying calm and making smart, confident decisions whether you are buying or selling. You will get a high-level game plan for staying competitive without taking on unnecessary risk, plus practical ways to reduce stress before and after you close. Sellers will also find guidance on how to prep a home for spring showings so it feels clean, fresh, and buyer-ready in a Pacific Northwest market.
After months of grey skies and rainy afternoons, suddenly the rhododendrons are exploding, the moss on your fence has never looked greener, and that nagging list of home projects you kept deferring feels, for once, entirely manageable.
Whether you're tucked into a craftsman bungalow in Portland or a new construction home in Vancouver, WA, spring is your annual reset button. This guide walks you through it room by room, corner by corner. Below you’ll find a checklist to clean, organize, and upgrade your home and garden from our amazing Agents at Urban Nest Realty.
Celebrate Lunar New Year 2026 in Portland and Vancouver, WA! Complete guide to Year of the Fire Horse celebrations including lantern festivals at Lan Su Chinese Garden, dragon dance parades, cultural fairs, performances, and family-friendly events throughout February and March. Find dates, locations, ticket prices, and planning tips for experiencing authentic Chinese New Year traditions in the Pacific Northwest.
As your resident Real Estate experts here in the Pacific Northwest, we’ve got a little known tip about winter house hunting that we are bursting at the seams to share. It may seem counter-intuitive but we've discovered that winter house hunting isn't just feasible - it's actually one of the smartest strategies for savvy buyers in Oregon and Washington. While many people hibernate during the rainy season, and hunker down for the holidays, those willing to brave the elements often find themselves in an advantageous position. Let’s find out why…
If you’re searching for a Portland neighborhood with charm, character, and an easygoing vibe, Sellwood should be at the top of your list. Located in Southeast Portland along the Willamette River, Sellwood blends small-town warmth with all the things people love about Portland living - walkable streets, incredible local businesses, and homes with real personality. For buyers relocating to Portland or longtime locals looking for a new corner of the city, Sellwood offers that perfect mix of comfort and culture.
Portland Art Museum's stunning $50 million renovation adds 30,000 sq ft of gallery space, featuring the new Rothko Pavilion, expanded contemporary art collections, Native American art, Pacific Northwest artists, multimedia installations, and enhanced accessibility. Free admission first Thursdays 5-8pm, plus free for youth 17 and under. Experience world-class art in historic 1932 building with modern updates, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking South Park Blocks, and improved visitor amenities in downtown Portland's cultural district.
On October 18, 2025, Portland hosted 40,000 demonstrators in the nationwide "No Kings" protests against presidential executive power. The peaceful rally showcased Portland's historic tradition of civic engagement through creative expression, featuring music, art, and performances—reflecting a decades-long commitment to democratic participation that defines the city's unique identity.
Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that forms naturally when uranium in soil, rock, and water breaks down. Because you can't see, smell, or taste it, radon often goes undetected in homes—making it a silent health hazard. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers in the United States, responsible for approximately 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually. For homeowners in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, understanding radon risks isn't just about health—it's a crucial part of the home buying and selling process.
If you have questions about radon testing, mitigation, or how radon considerations affect Portland and Vancouver real estate transactions, read more to learn all about Radon and how it affects millions of Americans each year. If you would like more information, reach out to your Urban Nest agent. We're here to provide the expertise and support you need to navigate every aspect of your home buying or selling journey with confidence.
There’s just something magical about wandering through a farmers market on a sunny morning or warm weekday afternoon. The smell of fresh strawberries, the sound of a local musician, petting ALL of the adorable dogs, and the chance to meet the farmers, bakers, and makers who keep our community fed - it’s peak Portland and Vancouver living.
From neighborhood gems like Rocky Butte and Cully to big weekend destinations like PSU and Vancouver’s Esther Short Park, there’s a market for every mood (and every grocery list).
Relocating to a new city is an exciting adventure, and choosing the right neighborhood in Portland can significantly impact your quality of life. With its diverse array of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality and amenities, Portland offers something for everyone. Finding your perfect match requires thoughtful consideration of several key factors that align with your personal needs and preferences.
Explore Portland's complex housing history through the Fair Housing Council of Oregon's eye-opening bus tour. From Vanport's tragic flooding to Japanese internment at the Expo Center, discover how redlining, discrimination, and displacement shaped Portland's neighborhoods. Learn how real estate professionals are working towards equitable housing, fair housing initiatives, and community preservation.
Discover why Portland and Vancouver are leading the pack as North America's most dog-friendly cities! From sprawling parks and pet-welcoming businesses to year-round amenities and strong pet communities, explore what makes these Pacific Northwest destinations the ultimate havens for dogs and their owners. Learn about the extensive network of green spaces, dog-friendly establishments, pet services, and community events that create an unparalleled environment for your four-legged companions.
At Urban Nest, we love the opportunity to share our local knowledge with people who are new to the area or considering a move to Portland or Vancouver. That is why we have created an invaluable resource for anyone looking to explore the diverse neighborhoods of Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington. Read more about our neighborhood map!
When the Pacific Northwest's signature rain settles in, there's no need to let the weather dampen your spirits. Both Portland and Vancouver have plenty of indoor activities that showcase the region's creativity, culture, and family-friendly entertainment. From soaking pools, to mini-golf, to cooking classes and quirky tiki-bars - we’ve gathered favorites from locals to share how we survive the rainy months and maybe even are excited about them.
"Keep Portland Weird" is not just a catchy slogan tossed around; it's deeply entrenched in every aspect of life in Portland. We are proud that our city is distinctive and unique and boasts a personality that stands apart, characterized by a thriving arts scene, a profound love for outdoor activities, and a robust sense of community spirit.
Portland, is a vibrant city with so much to offer, however, we all need to get away for the weekend and explore the surrounding areas sometimes. In this blog, we will share some of our favorite weekend getaways near Portland for epic adventures or much needed R&R.
Portland, a gem in the Pacific Northwest, is increasingly attracting newcomers. Moving to Portland is about more than just changing your address - it's about understanding the city's environment, culture, and lifestyle. Portland is home to a vibrant society characterized by pet-friendly attitudes, embracing the rain, an accepting inclusive attitude, and more. Here is your guide to get to know the key things that make Portland unique.
Portland, Oregon, is a city that's known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and unique culture. In this blog post, we'll delve into the many benefits of living in Portland and why this Pacific Northwest city might be the perfect place for you to call home.
The Pearl District is one of Portland’s “newest” neighborhoods, complete with shopping, restaurants, and some of the city’s most beautiful condos and lofts.
The fantastic NW PDX neighborhood running adjacent to famous Forest Park is home to many of the city’s most private homes and sweeping views.
The Southeast Portland neighborhood of Creston-Kenilworth is getting more and more exposure these days, and for all the right reasons!
Keeping the family entertained during the days of PDX winter weather can be challenging, but not impossible.
The PDX neighborhood surrounding North Williams and North Mississippi Avenues could be the perfect place for you to call home.
As more families with LGBTQIA+ children choose the Portland area as their new home, it's crucial to know about the wealth of resources and support systems available in our Pacific Northwest community. This guide will help you navigate the essential services and organizations that help make Portland a welcoming place for LGBTQIA+ youth and their families.