Retro Chic Ranch in SW Portland

Part of my duties as Head of Copy at MRealty was to come up with a unique ad copy voice that the other writers could easily use as a framework for varying styles of listings. This listing was often used as an example for new hires to show them how to “talk up” the good qualities and downplay any flaws:

The Story

This retro chic ranch-style home perches on an elevated lot in the peaceful neighborhood of Hillsdale. Conveniently located off Barbur Blvd. and I-5, you’ll never be far from the hustle and bustle of urban destinations in the greater Portland area. George Himes City Park is just a short walk away, perfect for a quick retreat from city life. Staying close to home, you’ll find a serenely green landscape and a close-knit community. 

Inside, enormous windows bring the outdoors in and bathe the spacious interiors in warm, natural light. Stylish details like 60’s space-age inspired light fixtures, two gigantic wood burning fireplaces, and original wood trim complete this bewitchingly vintage home.

With three bedrooms, including a generous master suite and an expansive basement, this unique home is move-in ready. You will love living here!

Exterior

Flowering shrubs and mature hedges stand like overgrown sentries guarding this sweet home, complete with an attached two car garage. A quaint back patio meanders over the verdant back lawn, which is bordered by lush hedges for privacy.

Living room

This sprawling living space, illuminated by an enormous picture window, has ample room for any furniture you might require. The oversized, brick-encased fireplace, with a handy cupboard to keep tools and wood out of the way, is quite the statement piece. A convenient hall closet around the corner is perfect for organizing all your winter weather wear.

Kitchen & Dining

With panoramic views of the backyard, this cozy kitchen packs a wallop of style into a limited space. Equipped with stainless steel appliances, tiled backsplashes, and ample cabinet space, this kitchen is a perfect synthesis of form and function. The connected formal dining room, boasting a 60’s space-age inspired chandelier and a wall length picture window, instantly elevates any meal to an elegant occasion. 

Master suite

The roomy master suite is outfitted with a double-wide closet boasting original sliding doors and a remodeled bathroom. The step-in shower with a waterfall shower-head and built-in shelves is both elegant and luxurious.

Additional beds & bath

The two additional bedrooms each boast ample closets, generous windows, and hardwood floors. With tile accents and a stylish floating sink, the second full bathroom is perfect for residents and guests alike.

Basement 

Though currently unfinished, this expansive area boasts endless potential. With an entire wall of built-in shelves, ample fireplace, and a healthy amount of natural light, this room would make an excellent at-home fitness center, hobby space, or home theater.

Charmingly 60's Ranch in NE Portland

Occasionally while working at MRealty as Head of Copy, I was given a certain amount of creative license if the property warranted it. This particular home was straight out of a mid 60’s sitcom, so I peppered in some references for flair and to keep the content interesting. It wasn’t a particularly impressive house, just interestingly decorated. Our client loved it and the home sold easily:

The Story

Named one of Money Magazine’s “Best 100 Places to Live,” Beaverton’s thriving economy and comparatively reasonable cost of living make it perfect place to put down roots. While the city has much to offer locally, this home’s convenient location puts the bustling downtowns of Hillsboro and trendy Portland within easy reach thanks to the nearby TV Hwy and 26. With local nature preserves like the Whistling Woods and Tualatin Hills Nature Park, it’s hard to find a better location for a new home!

The house itself boasts a charming blast from the past style that is sure to please. With unique built-ins, a spacious layout, and a retro kitchen, it’s hard not to be bewitched by this one-of-a-kind cottage. A perfect synthesis of urban living with peaceful surroundings; this home could be your Green Acres!

Exterior

You’ll be whistling a happy tune along the garden framed pathway as you traipse up to the front of this cheery home. Around back, the original, refinished deck meanders over a verdure lawn that has ample room for your entire Brady Bunch to enjoy a BBQ or a friendly game of football. If farm living is the life for you, why not utilize the spacious yard to exercise your green thumb?

Living and dining

You won’t need to do much more than wiggle your nose to keep this charming living room spic and span thanks to convenient built-in shelves. Careful to avoid a Dick Van Dyke fall in the inviting sunken living room, which features wall length windows that bathe the entire space in warm, natural light. A spiffy wood burning fireplace—decked out by a stained glass insert—completes the ambiance. With charming wainscoting and a jumbo sliding window, any meal feels instantly elevated to a grand affair in the attached dining room.

Kitchen

Ditch the Beverly Hillbillies clutter thanks to bountiful counter space, a bevy of cabinets and built-in shelves, and a walk-in pantry. Serene blue walls and a large bay window (perfect for an indoor herb garden) enrich the bright and airy atmosphere. The extra sitting area could be utilized as a breakfast nook for quick meals before you start your day. Channel your inner Donna Reed and enjoy hosting indoor/outdoor parties with ease through sliding glass doors that access the back deck.

Beds and baths

Try not to get lost in space on the upstairs landing. There’s ample room for a library or perhaps a computer room, depending on what computes for you. The main abode features a dapper turquoise accent wall and an oversized open wardrobe, but with a built-in sofa bed and a double closet, the bedroom currently being used as an office is hard to beat.  No waiting in line at this home; two and a half bathrooms have residents and guests covered.