Thinking of moving to Portland? You might be surprised how it stacks up against LA, Seattle, San Francisco, and even Boise when it comes to cost of living, home prices, and taxes. In this episode, Joe and Makayla break down what affordability really means in Portland — not just in dollars, but in lifestyle, too.

Whether you’re relocating from a high-cost metro or just want a more balanced quality of life, this one’s for you. Get the unfiltered facts, some tax hacks, and a reality check on why Portland might be a hidden gem for buyers right now.

🎙️ Episode Summary

In this episode of Off the Record, Joe and Makayla dive into one of the hottest topics for buyers and sellers alike: affordability in Portland. With prices and rent on the rise across the West Coast, how does Portland truly compare to places like LA, Seattle, San Francisco, and Boise?

They break down living expenses for both individuals and families, uncover surprising truths about income and property taxes, and explain what makes Portland’s cost of living feel more livable. Bonus: Joe shares a clever cross-state shopping tax hack, and Makayla lays out why now might actually be a great time to buy.

🕑 Episode Highlights

00:01:00 – Why affordability is trending: Comparing Portland with San Francisco, LA, Seattle, and Boise.
00:03:15 – Monthly costs, broken down: Rent, groceries, and more for single folks and families of four.
00:07:30 – Quality of life perks: No sales tax, free outdoor access, bikeable neighborhoods, and strong public schools.
00:08:30 – The truth about Oregon taxes: What Portlanders do and don’t pay.
00:10:05 – Property taxes explained: How Portland compares and where you’ll find lower rates.
00:12:00 – Home price averages: What your money buys in Portland vs. the rest of the West Coast.
00:14:00 – Is now the time to buy? Joe and Makayla talk inventory, seller flexibility, and buyer leverage.

Hosted by Joe Reitzug and Makayla Mast, two experienced Portland-area real estate pros with the LivPortland team. Learn more at livportland.com.

🔗 Resources Mentioned

• 📊 Portland Affordability Blog Post: Can You Really Afford to Live in Portland?
• 🏡 Browse listings, contact the team, or explore more episodes at livportland.com

👉 Curious if Portland’s a fit for your budget and lifestyle? Reach out at livportland.com to connect with our team for a personalized consultation.

Thank you for listening to this episode. Stay up to date on the latest trends and insights by subscribing to our podcast and following us on social media.

For more information about buying or selling in the Portland Metro real estate market, please visit www.LivPortland.com or contact us directly.

We appreciate your feedback, so please leave a review and let us know what topics you would like to hear more about.

What’s the best hotel in Portland — and what can’t-miss food spots are just around the corner? Whether you're relocating, planning a staycation, or booking for friends, this episode is your go-to guide to Portland’s most iconic (and cozy) downtown hotels.

Joe and Makayla are serving up insider tips, must-try restaurants, and real stories from their own Portland hotel experiences. From rooftop cocktails to historic charm, they break down what makes each spot special — and where to grab your next great meal while you're there.

👉 Don’t forget to check out the blog that inspired this episode:
Top 6 Hotels in Downtown Portland With Nearby Restaurants

🔑 Episode Highlights

00:01 – Summer pod series vibes and how fireworks, beach trips, and golf kicked off the month
04:03 – The Nines — rooftop views, luxury vibes, and sushi at Departure
07:35 – The Heathman — historical charm, library lobby, and brunch at Cheryl’s on 12th
09:50 – The Benson — old-world elegance, happy hour at El Gaucho, and pasta at Grassa
11:56 – Dossier Hotel — urban-chic, firepits, kombucha, and killer Vietnamese food
14:17 – Hotel Lucia — intimate and artsy, Cuban cuisine at Imperial, and vegan Vietnamese bites
16:10 – The Ritz-Carlton — Portland’s only Forbes 5-star hotel with stunning views and a $6.5M penthouse

📚 Resources Mentioned

• 🛎 Top 6 Hotels in Downtown Portland Blog
• 📺 LivPortland YouTube – Grub Guide
• 💎 Ritz-Carlton Penthouse Listing (in blog post)

Looking for more off-the-record Portland tips — or trusted real estate advice?
Head to 👉 LivPortland.com for blog posts, listings, resources, and local guides to help you make confident real estate moves.

Thank you for listening to this episode. Stay up to date on the latest trends and insights by subscribing to our podcast and following us on social media.

For more information about buying or selling in the Portland Metro real estate market, please visit www.LivPortland.com or contact us directly.

We appreciate your feedback, so please leave a review and let us know what topics you would like to hear more about.

🎯 Is Now the Time to Buy or Sell in Portland?

Spring 2025 is here—and with it comes a real estate market full of surprises. Whether you're eyeing a new home or considering selling, understanding the nuances of today’s market could save you thousands. Joe and Makayla break down what’s actually happening behind the headlines and give you the unfiltered truth.

📝 Episode Summary

In this fast-paced market update, Joe and Makayla dig into what’s really going on in the Portland real estate scene this spring. From first-time buyer struggles to luxury market opportunities, this episode unpacks where things stand and what that means for you. You’ll hear about pricing trends across three price ranges, key buying strategies (including how to use seller credits to your advantage), and honest advice for sellers navigating interest rate sensitivity.

Expect insights, laughs, a little fried chicken talk—and a whole lot of value.

🔍 Episode Highlights

[00:05:03] Spring 2025 Market Snapshot – A quick look at what’s changing and why it matters

[00:07:01] Buyers: Under $600K – High inventory, low competition, and why you have leverage right now

[00:10:08] Buyers: $600K–$1.2M – The “dialed-in” dilemma, contingent offers, and smart financing moves

[00:14:00] Buyers: $1.2M and Up – Why this might be the best time to buy in the luxury market

[00:17:03] Sellers: Under $600K – Fewer buyers, tougher appraisals, and the importance of pricing below market

[00:19:23] Sellers: $600K–$1.2M – How to stand out in a crowded market and handle contingent buyers

[00:22:15] Sellers: $1.2M and Up – Inventory is strong, but smart pricing and perfect presentation still matter

[00:23:00] What’s Next: Behind the Scenes – A sneak peek at an upcoming episode on the real day-to-day of a broker

👤 About the Hosts

Joe Reitzug and Makayla Mast are top Portland real estate pros known for keeping it real. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just trying to make sense of the numbers, they’re your go-to guides.

🔗 Resources Mentioned

• LivPortland Podcast Archive
• LivPortland Grub Guide
• Want to reach Joe or Makayla?

Thinking about making a move? Let’s talk strategy. Visit livportland.com to get personalized insights, or DM us to start the conversation.
And don’t forget—subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Thank you for listening to this episode. Stay up to date on the latest trends and insights by subscribing to our podcast and following us on social media.

For more information about buying or selling in the Portland Metro real estate market, please visit www.LivPortland.com or contact us directly.

We appreciate your feedback, so please leave a review and let us know what topics you would like to hear more about.