Buying your first home in Portland doesn’t have to feel like solving a Rubik’s Cube in the dark. Start by getting clear on your budget—talk to a lender early so you know what you’re working with. From there, choose a neighborhood that matches your lifestyle (and your tolerance for parallel parking), and partner with an agent who understands the quirks of Portland’s market.

Once you’re pre-approved and ready to shop, tour homes, make a strong offer, and roll through inspections with a cool head. Before you know it, you’ll be signing papers, grabbing your keys, and celebrating with a very Portland treat—coffee, kombucha, or a donut the size of your face.