Insights & Guides
Portland Real Estate Blog
Market reports, neighborhood guides, and practical advice for buyers, sellers, and investors in the Portland metro area.
Your Neighbor Just Built a Backyard Cottage. Here's What That Actually Takes.
Everything you need to know about building or buying a home with an ADU (accessory dwelling unit) in Portland Oregon, including zoning, permits, costs, and financing.
I Get Asked About Portland Neighborhoods Every Week. Here's My Honest Answer.
A neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdown of the best areas to buy a home in Portland Oregon, covering prices, character, schools, and what each community is really like.
Most Oregon First-Time Buyers Miss This Program. You Shouldn't.
A complete guide to Oregon first-time homebuyer programs in 2026, including Oregon Bond loans, down payment assistance, FHA loans, and what you actually need to qualify.
The Real Reason Portlanders Keep Moving Across the Bridge
Thinking about moving from Portland to Vancouver, Camas, or Ridgefield WA? Here is everything you need to know about the no-income-tax advantage, home prices, schools, and the cross-border commute.
Portland Metro Service Area
Serving buyers and sellers across Multnomah, Washington, and Clackamas Counties
Former professional dancer turned Portland real estate broker. Kara Girod has been helping people find their place in this city since 2012, with 70+ closed sales, 500+ transactions, and a 5.0-star reputation to show for it. She writes about what she actually sees and hears from clients, lenders, inspectors, and other agents.
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Let's Find Your Next Home
Whether you are buying, selling, or just exploring, Kara is ready to put her 11 years of Portland market expertise to work for you.