October
Portland Retro Gaming Expo
Oct 13–15
The Portland Retro Gaming Expo is organized within the local community to commemorate the vibrant past of console, computer, and arcade gaming. The arcade section is impressive, with all coin-operated games available for unrestricted play throughout the weekend.
Houseplant Swap at Cornell Farm
October 22
Whether you have common indoor plants or rare collector’s treasures, you will enjoy this event for plant lovers! Make sure your plants are labeled, healthy, and pest free. Let’s embrace the spirit of sharing and exchange— no buying or selling allowed.
Halloween in the Village
October 31
Celebrate Halloween in the Village! Join the annual Trick-orTreat Costume Parade and enjoy all the creative sights up close. Our SW o ce will be passing out treats and celebrating with the village, stop by to say hi to your spookiest neighbors!
Vancouver Artwork Swap
November 3
Do you have any artwork stored in your closet? Are you interested in enhancing your walls with something fresh? Take your paintings, drawings, or framed photographs to Kindred Homestead Supply for their Artwork Swap!
Washing State Parks: Free Admission for Autumn Day
November 25
Washington State Parks are o ering a free admission day, ideal for a day o or remote work day, surrounded by nature. Some of our favorites include Beacon Rock State Park, Cape Disappointment State Park, and Columbia Hills State Park.
Living Room Coat Drive
November 27–December 13
Every year, we partner with Impact Northwest to provide brand new coats to individuals in their housing program. Their e orts aim to assist those transitioning out of homelessness or facing the risk of losing their homes. Join us in ensuring the warmth of our neighbors this winter by contributing new coats to any of our o ces.
December Winter Wonderland
November 24–December 31
Known as the “Largest Holiday Light Show West of the Mississippi,” the 30th annual Safeway Winter Wonderland captivates audiences with gleaming displays. All proceeds aid the Sunshine Division in providing meals to Portland families.
Portland Gay Men’s Chorus: Make the Yuletide Gay
December 8–10
Get ready for an unforgettable show—“the gayest holiday concert of all time!” With a modern take on classic variety shows, it’s a joyful, humorous holiday extravaganza. Join us in December to celebrate this beloved Portland tradition.
Cirque Dreams Holidaze
December 23–25
Holidaze brings enchantment to the stage with its beloved and captivating family holiday show. This cherished yearly event combines a delightful, Broadwayinspired musical with modern circus artistry to create a festive treat!
PORTLAND SEEMS TO HAVE BEEN ON THE EDGE for some time now. All of us have been a ected by the tensions that exist in our changing city. Viewing our city through the lens of ecology, this edge we find ourselves at may actually indicate the emergence of a flourishing, more vibrant and diverse city, and an opportunity for all of us who are willing to stick with it.
In ecology, the “edge” or “edge e ect” refers to changes in a population or community along the boundary of a habitat. Think of the Mango forests; they are edges where two communities of diverse ecosystems meet and integrate. Other examples are a grassland between forest and desert or an estuary between fresh and saltwater. These “edges”, are also referred to as “zones of tension” because they have conditions intermediate to the adjacent ecosystem. The “tension” refers to the fact they hold two di ering and competing interests at once. Not unlike our growing city or any system that fosters and contains diversity.
As a CEO, I have felt this tension in my own ecosystem of an organization. As Living Room grows and must hold the disparate interests of a wide group, the more tensions arise. But also, the more we team with life and growth. That growth is an opportunity for both personal and business success for those in our organization. I’ve come to accept that tensions naturally arise with the conditions that make it possible for more people to thrive.
Another really cool thing to consider as you find yourself on the sometimes uncomfortable “edges” of growth—a well developed ecotone contains organisms which are entirely unique to that of the adjoining ecosystems. These species are known as edge species. For example, between desert and forest, is where you find the greatest density and diversity of birds. The zones of tension, not your zone of comfort, is where there actually exists more “Living Room for All”.
Choosing to live in a thriving city like Portland, perhaps makes us somewhat of an edge species. We can begin to embrace and be open to hearing the songs of birds di erent from our own, and thriving in the tension of an environment where we routinely come into contact with the di erent habits, concerns, ways of life, and communities of those around us.
Perhaps, if we all normalized the tensions and conflicts that come with the benefits of living on the edge, we would start to be more active in our adaptations to these conditions. We have work to do in Portland, and it’s gonna take all of us being willing to do our part.
In our work as Realtors, I have come to think of our highest purpose as being community builders. For the past 20 years—being in community and relating to one another as neighbors—dominates most of my thoughts. Building community is rich and rewarding, but it also means being able to navigate tension and disagreement, and welcome conflict as an extension of intimacy. Conflict is not in opposition to intimacy, but an important part of creating and maintaining intimacy. If you want to be close to others you must be willing to face and normalize the tensions and conflicts that will inevitably arise.
If I am committed to community, and if I am committed to loving my neighbor, then I am committed to the conflict and tension zones where our edges meet. I have to be willing to take a second look at the places where I find myself fixed and unyielding. I have to welcome the conflict as a chance for growth. To live on an edge that teems with life. An edge I am willing to stick with because it means there is an opportunity to truly create “Living Room For All.” Because here is where the birds will sing the sweetest.
Are you seeking a new nest? Call us. We’d love to help you find your next Living Room.
JENELLE ETZEL OWNER, LIVING ROOM REALTY
“For the past 20 years, being in community— and relating to one another as neighbors— dominates most of my thoughts. Building community is rich and rewarding but it also means being able to navigate tension and disagreement, and welcoming that conflict as an extension of intimacy. Conflict is not in opposition to intimacy, but an important part of creating and maintaining intimacy.”
Your residence stands as a precious investment. Employ this checklist to maintain its allure and functionality throughout the winter season. Feel free to reach out to our Fixers for any of these undertakings!
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE LIVING ROOM FIXERS
NEED HELP WITH BIGGER PROJECTS? ASK ME FOR REFERRALS! At Living Room Realty, not only can I connect you with a great team of licensed Fixers, I also have top-notch contractor referrals that I reserve for my clients. Reach out to me any time!
The bustling downtown Vancouver waterfront area is filled with unique shops, trendy cafes, and plenty of entertainment options. Whether you’re in the mood for shopping, dining, or simply exploring, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant community.
COMPASS COFFEE
Start the day with a dose of ca eine at a cozy local shop, where you will be greeted by the aroma of freshly roasted co ee and the friendly smile of baristas. At Compass, they serve a wide range of high-quality co ee drinks, from classic drip co ee to specialty lattes.
817 WASHINGTON ST, VANCOUVER, WA
KINDRED HOMESTEAD SUPPLY
Ready to make a positive impact while shopping? Kindred Homestead Supply is more than just a store—they’re a movement towards a greener future for our planet. Their bulk refillery includes a wide array of home and personal care products, all meticulously sourced for their quality and sustainability.
606 MAIN ST, VANCOUVER, WA
LAUREN CHANDLER
COOKS
is a plant-centered chef, educator, and recipe developer. She teaches cooking classes for team-building and wellness through organizations in person and virtually from her sweet little chef’s cottage that a Living Room broker helped her buy. Contact her at lauren@ laurenchandlercooks.com for a cooking class for your team!
I love this time of year when juicy grapes drip from the vines! They go so perfectly with good extra virgin olive oil. It’s no surprise they make such a friendly duo since they both thrive in similar climates. One of my all-time favorite combos is toasted bread smeared with creamy goat cheese, a bunch of halved grapes, fresh basil, a generous pour of fresh smooth olive oil, and flaked salt.
LITTLE CONEJO
If you’re looking for a spot where you can savor both tacos and mezcal in one go, Little Conejo is for you. Their menu boasts a wide array of freshly made tacos, with an impressive selection of fillings— including vegetarian and vegan options.
114 W 6TH ST, VANCOUVER, WA
WATERFRONT PARK
Enjoy a sunset stroll through the riverfront urban park, where nature and city living seamlessly blend together on the banks of the Columbia river. Admire the many works of art on display or find a quiet spot to sit and soak in the tranquility.
115 SE COLUMBIA WAY, VANCOUVER, WA
THE GROCERY COCKTAIL & SOCIAL
Relax and unwind at a casual cocktail lounge that honors Vancouver’s past. Indulge in a scrumptious, locally sourced menu and sip on skillfully crafted cocktails to cap o your perfect day in Vancouver.
115 W 7TH ST, VANCOUVER, WA
ICE CREAM RENAISSANCE
Craving something sweet and cold after a long day? Top o the night with a treat from Ice Cream Renaissance. They’re conveniently located in the downtown area and open late, making it easy to swing by after dinner or drinks.
1925 MAIN ST, VANCOUVER, WA
ARE YOU ONE OF THE MANY thousands of Portland homeowners who are beginning to feel “trapped” in your home because of your unusually low mortgage rate? There is a name for this: “mortgage-rate lock in.” A surprising e ect of the increase in rates is not just that it is creating a reduction in buyer demand, it is also creating a significant reduction in SELLER demand. We get it, bunkering into your home with that amazing sub-4% rate is a great feeling, and maybe you should never ever move! But for many, it is a feeling of not just “WHY would I ever move” but “HOW could I ever move”. Markets like this don’t last forever, in fact, they can sometimes change abruptly. I am partnering with Living Room to o er a unique “Real Estate Planning” conversation designed to give you specific market information that will help you understand what kind of market environment WOULD allow you to move. Your agent will give you an updated valuation of your home right now and gather specific information about what you want your next home to be in the future, as well as what your target budget would have to be for the next payment. When we understand what your next level needs to look like, we can then provide you with a TARGET MORTGAGE RATE that would “unlock” the market for your next move. It’s better to know what you are waiting for than to simply think you are stuck! We are here to help! Snap the code below to initiate your Real Estate Planning session today.
JAMES ADAIR NMLS 272766
36 Avg. Days on Market
Gresham/ Troutdale $479,300 +2.0% Milwaukie/ Clackamas
$577,900 -1.8%
$384,969 Avg. Sales Price
60 Avg. Days on Market
Craftsman’s Haven
7635 SE 17th Ave, Portland OR, 97202
Embrace the warmth of this beautifully maintained home, meticulously upgraded by the same owner since ‘92. Thoughtful changes by a woodworker and letterpress printer team include widened hallways, expanded primary suite, and modernized kitchen/baths. Enjoy gatherings in the light-filled kitchen with custom cherry cabinets. Ready for new owners to appreciate the craftsmanship.
2 Bed | 2 bath | 1,944 sq. ft.
$757,000
Coastal Tranquility: A Bay City Gem with Scenic Views
5065 Main St, Bay City OR, 97107
Experience Tillamook Bay’s glimmering waters and the Cascade Mountains’ grandeur from this updated one-level ranch. Bay City blends coastal charm with a small-town feel. Fish, boat, or explore beaches by day; enjoy seafood delights by night. Fresh paint, new flooring, and gas fireplace in this cozy, light-filled home. Your waterfront sanctuary is waiting!
3 bed | 1 bath | 1,202 sq. ft.
$365,000
Luxury Lakeside Living: The Ultimate Lakewood Transformation
550 Middlecrest Rd, Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Unbelievable Lakewood transformation! Every space is updated perfectly: serene lake view, quality craftsmanship, designer details, spa-like primary suite, Ortal gas fireplace, lush backyard, and a detached studio. Live the Lake Oswego dream!
3 bed | 2.5 bath | 2,332 sq. ft. $2,075,000
Given the nature of real estate, these homes may already be pending or sold. See more on our website: livingroomre.com
Here are just a few of the beautiful homes we have for sale.
Congratulations to Tatiana and Madison, veterans and first-time home buyers! They were able to buy their first home with only $6,000 and a VA Loan with a 0% down payment! Despite facing several challenges along the way, they remained positive and handled each obstacle with level heads and humor.
A and K are twins. I met K at an open house and we hit it o quickly. She and her twin have been buying real estate and living together with their families for a long time. Their last home was a side-by-side duplex. They wanted a bit more space and a yard, but wished to stay together somehow. By some fairy magic, a huge lot in the super cool Cully neighborhood with TWO houses and a gorgeous garden came on the market. Now this beautiful family can continue sharing their lives in this special way—in community with their families.
Urban living or suburban life? Walkability or more space? Pradeep and Neha were looking for a change of scenery, financial security, and a good long-term investment by making the move up to Washington. They ran the gamut of house styles and neighborhoods until they found the perfect diamond in the rough at a great price with instant equity! The best part? This couple is the smartest and the sweetest and they all had fun together in the process. Welcome home, Pradeep and Neha, and congratulations!
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We are in the business of sharing stories— stories of the people we work with and of the neighborhoods we know and love that make up the great city of Portland.
“They wanted a bit more space and a yard, but wished to stay together somehow. By some fairy magic, a huge lot in the super cool Cully neighborhood with TWO houses and a gorgeous garden came on the market.”
With a budget of under $375K, Elijah knew he’d likely be buying a fixer. As a client, he was tenacious in his optimism. In our months of touring homes, we saw things many buyers would run from— including mummified rats, black mold, and…human cremains. Throught it all—Elijah remained focused on his big picture goal to build life-changing financial security and generational wealth through home ownership. We finally found “the one” and I can’t wait to see what he does with this first jewel in his real estate crown!
When Minott reached out to me about selling his condo, I was ecstatic. He has a story that will make you smile for just about everything—and if you’re lucky he may make you a tipple, his latest favorite concoction from one of his many classic cocktail books. Luckily, his charming condo was a delight to get on the market and we had an abundance of condos to consider for his new home. Finding room for his liquor collection and vintage glassware was a must! We found him a clean, modern, and open condo where he immediately felt at home. He learned the concierge’s name on our second visit, and I’m sure he knows their favorite drink by now too!
One of our amazing clients, Joanne, in front of her favorite window in her soon-to-be new home! Joanne is an absolute gem of a human and fell in love with a sweet one-level 60’s home in the Mt. Scott-Arleta community. When we connected with Joanne initially, she shared that home ownership never felt possible, but she decided to try and called our team. After chatting about what home ownership could look like for her, we encouraged her to dream. Joanne did just that, which made finding a home in 2 weeks possible. Helping Joanne in finding the perfect fit reminds us why we love what we do! We couldn’t be happier for her.
JAN 20—FEB 18
Autumn sparks innovation for you, Aquarius. Find home within unconventional connections. Amidst falling leaves, kindred spirits await.
Guidance from the stars for each of the zodiac signs this fall.
FEB 19—MAR 20
Fall’s emotions mirror your empathetic heart, Pisces. Embrace the season’s depth, seeking sanctuary amidst nature’s embrace. Within autumn’s colors, find healing and spiritual nourishment— a soulful home.
GEMINI
MAY 22—JUN 21
Fall whispers change, Gemini. Lean into transformation, and seek a peaceful place amidst autumn’s embrace. The joy of finding belonging shall ground your wandering heart.
LIBRA
SEP 23—OCT 22
Autumn’s balance calls to you, Libra. Discover the harmony within the changing seasons. Amid dear companions you can discover the joyous feeling of home—a place your soul calls its own.
JUN 22—JUL 22
Autumn speaks to your soul, Cancer. Embrace kinship and comforting surroundings. Your nurturing heart blooms—creating a haven of love, the essence of autumn’s warmth.
OCT 23—NOV 21
The mystery of longer nights beckons you, Scorpio. There is transformative power and solace within the shadows. Unearth the true meaning of home—a refuge where your soul seeks tranquility.
MAR 21—APR 19
Embrace the cozy comfort of Autumn, dear Aries. Find solace in the changing scenery and crisp air. Your adventurous spirit craves belonging—welcome new connections, and unveil a heartwarming home amidst falling leaves.
LEO
JUL 23—AUG 22
Fall’s colors mirror your vibrant spirit, Leo. Be open to seasonal shifts, drawing inspiration from the autumnal canvas. Your charisma fosters welcoming hearts cherishing your glow.
NOV 22— DEC 21
This season fuels your adventurous spirit, Sagittarius. Welcome change and seek belonging in distant lands. Amid falling leaves, comfort lies in every corner of the world your heart calls home.
APR 20—MAY 21
As fall blankets you in warmth, Taurus, cherish the season’s abundant blessings. Trust instincts to guide you toward stability and strength—a sanctuary that nurtures your soul.
VIRGO
AUG 23—SEP 22
Autumn’s precision resonates with your soul, Virgo. Cultivate a haven reflecting your inner peace. Seek simplicity and order—a cozy home amidst fall’s rhythm.
DEC 22— JAN 19
Though change can be challenging for your steady spirit, Capricorn, this fall will open you up to the peace you crave. Embrace wisdom this season, and seek home within your own cherished traditions.
United in our e orts, we know we can do more to e ect change and have a greater impact on the world around us. We became a certified B Corp in 2013 and joined a community of global leaders who make choices to intentionally serve the greater good. We consider the impact of our decisions on our sta , agents, customers, suppliers, community, and the environment. When you work with us, you’re also intentionally making a choice for the greater good.
