Rain or Shine: 5 Things Portland Home Buyers Should Look for in a Home (That You Might Miss at First Glance)

March 25, 2025 11:43 pm

Thinking about buying a home in Portland, Oregon? From charming craftsman bungalows to modern condos near bustling coffee shops, our city has a lot to offer. But Portland’s unique mix of weather, lifestyle, and neighborhoods means that the home search can come with a few surprises.

That’s why it’s so important to know what to look for when buying a home in Portland. Some of the most important features — like drainage, natural light, or even bike storage — might not stand out right away during a tour. But they can make a huge difference in how a home actually lives, especially through our rainy seasons and active, outdoor lifestyle.

Drainage and Grading: The Rain Test

Here in Portland, water is part of our daily lives—so it’s crucial to understand how a home handles it. Poor drainage can lead to serious problems over time, from foundation issues to mold.

What to check:

  • Walk the yard after a recent rain. Are there puddles or soggy spots that don’t drain? That could be a red flag.

  • Look for water stains in the basement or crawlspace—especially along baseboards and concrete floors.

  • Check gutters and downspouts. Are they clean, intact, and properly directing water away from the foundation?

  • Notice the slope of the yard or driveway. Ideally, water should flow away from the house—not toward it.

Tip: Don’t be shy about asking your inspector for a close look at drainage and moisture levels—this is something a good local inspector will know to prioritize.

Covered Outdoor Living Spaces: Portland’s Secret to Year-Round Enjoyment

We love the outdoors here, but let’s face it—those rainy months mean uncovered patios and decks can go unused for a good chunk of the year. Covered outdoor areas extend your usable living space and let you enjoy coffee, dinner, or a cozy firepit almost any time.

Look for features like:

  • Covered front porches or back patios

  • Pergolas with built-in lighting or heaters

  • Gazebos or rainproof retractable awnings

  • Hot tubs or fire pits under cover (yes please!)

Even a small covered area can become a year-round hangout spot, which adds real value to your home—and your lifestyle.

Natural Light: Mood-Boosting Must-Have

Winters in Portland can feel long and grey, so homes with great natural light feel brighter, happier, and more livable. It’s not just about aesthetics—sunlight can truly lift your mood and make your home feel more open and welcoming.

How to spot good light:

  • South-facing windows usually get the most sunlight.

  • Skylights, solar tubes, and larger windows in key rooms like the living room or kitchen are a big plus.

  • Lighter paint colors and open floor plans help reflect light and brighten up the space naturally.

  • Pay attention to the time of day when you tour homes. If possible, visit in the morning and afternoon to see how the light changes.

Bonus: Natural light also helps indoor plants thrive, and Portlanders love a good indoor jungle.

Bikeability & Public Transit Access: Portland Priorities

Many Portlanders prefer getting around by bike or public transit—it’s part of what makes the city so livable. So when you’re evaluating homes, don’t just look at the property—look at how easy it is to get from A to B without a car.

Things to consider:

  • Are there bike lanes nearby? Portland is known for its bike-friendliness, but some neighborhoods are better connected than others.

  • How close is the nearest MAX or bus stop? A short walk to reliable transit can save time and money.

  • What’s the Walk Score and Bike Score? (You can look this up online for any property.)

  • Is there secure storage for your bike or e-bike?

Pro tip: Homes near thriving commercial areas like Alberta, Hawthorne, or Mississippi often score high on walkability and bikeability—great for quality of life and resale value.

Storage for All the Gear: Life in the PNW Requires Room

Living in the Pacific Northwest often means you’ve got stuff—bikes, kayaks, snowboards, gardening tools, camping gear… you name it. Portlanders are active and outdoorsy, and your home needs to support that lifestyle.

Storage ideas to look for:

  • A garage or carport with extra space

  • A detached shed or studio (great for hobbies too!)

  • Basement storage or attic access for seasonal gear

  • Smart built-ins and closet organizers in older homes

Also: Many Portland homes have older floor plans with less built-in storage, so pay close attention to this if you’re looking at bungalows or craftsman-style homes.

Thinking About Buying a Home in Portland?

The little things make a big difference. Buying a home here isn’t just about square footage or stainless-steel appliances—it’s about choosing a home that fits how we really live in Portland.

If you’re starting your home search and want a local team who gets it (and loves this city as much as you do), let’s chat. We’re happy to answer questions, recommend neighborhoods, or just talk about what makes a house truly feel like home here in the Pacific Northwest.

Reach out any time—rain or shine. We’re here to help.