Editor’s Note: Welcome to Portland Monthly’s “Property Watch” column, where we take regular looks at interesting homes on the market in Portland’s super-competitive real estate market (with periodic ventures to the burbs and points beyond, for good measure). This week: A super-charming Dutch Colonial in SE Portland. Got a home you think would work for this column? Get in touch at [email protected].

Inner SE Division has the hustle and bustle of those relatively new condos and commercial pockets, but just a block or two to the south, Clinton Street hasn’t changed nearly as much. Much of the housing stock, from 50s-era duplexes to early twentieth century Craftsmans, still stands.

So too with this Dutch Colonial, just south of Clinton on 33^rd Avenue, and originally built in 1910. Thanks to its architect owner, it’s been thoughtfully updated for modern family life without sacrificing any of its historic charm.

This starts at the front porch, with its tongue-and-groove ceiling painted a light blue, a longstanding American tradition. Inside, there’s a nicely proportioned foyer, with preserved wood paneling wrapping the staircase and double glass doors to the living room. The first floor has an easy, natural flow to it, from the living room with its front-facing bay window, to the dining room, where there’s another bay, this time with a window seat in the alcove.

The kitchen has been redone—the eat-in counter and professional-grade appliances are modern, while the Shaker cabinets and marble tile backsplash nod to the historic milieu. A set of double-glass doors bring in sunlight and views of the private backyard, where a brand-new deck will inspire easy entertaining next summer.

There are five bedrooms total, and the one on the main floor just off the kitchen, is perfect for an office/homework set-up. Beside it, there’s a sizeable bathroom with a charming clawfoot tub.

Upstairs, the three bedrooms share a skylit landing that could be another hang-out spot/office nook, and a bathroom that was remodeled just last year, complete with double vanity, oversized shower with marble tile and skylight, and pretty polished nickel plumbing.

The basement also received a full remodel recently, so has its own guest suite with exterior access, and even a little sound-dampened room for music makers.

So many historic details have been preserved—like the tall Doug fir baseboards and the ornate brass heat registers, or the solid five-panel doors with their brass knobs—that the home has a soulful, welcoming feel. But as comfortable as it is, the location in the heart of the Richmond neighborhood within easy walking distance of so many restaurants and shops ensures you’ll get out plenty.

Listing Fast Facts 
Address: 2727 SE 33rd Ave 
Size: 2,682 square feet, 5 bedroom/3 bath 
List Date: 9/17/2021 
List Price: $949,900 
Listing Agent: Eric Hagstette and Meagan Sorensen, Inhabit Real Estate

Melissa Dalton is a freelance writer who has focused on Pacific Northwest design and lifestyle since 2008. She is based in Portland, Oregon. Contact Dalton here.