A Seattle-based couple has traded their suburban desert retreat in California for an urban condominium in Portland, Oregon. Teresa and Marty Strelecky, both 73, decided to seek a second home that aligned with their preference for walkable neighborhoods, proximity to amenities, and a vibrant city atmosphere, marking a significant shift in their lifestyle priorities.
After years of owning vacation properties along the West Coast, most recently in Rancho Mirage, California, the couple sought a location closer to their primary residence in West Seattle. Their search, with a budget around $725,000, focused on finding a property that offered convenience and an active urban environment, a stark contrast to the car-dependent lifestyle they grew weary of.
Key Takeaways
- A Seattle couple, the Streleckys, sold their suburban California vacation home to buy an urban second home in the Pacific Northwest.
- Their search criteria prioritized walkability, public transportation access, and proximity to shops and restaurants.
- With a budget of approximately $725,000, they considered properties in both Portland and Seattle.
- Ultimately, they purchased a 2,000-square-foot condominium in Portland's Goose Hollow neighborhood for $699,000.
A Change in Scenery and Lifestyle
For Teresa and Marty Strelecky, the decision to find a new second home was driven by a desire for a different kind of getaway. The couple, who describe themselves as “committed Pacific Northwesterners,” found their property in Rancho Mirage increasingly misaligned with their lifestyle. “In the desert, you lived like you were in a suburb and we realized, ‘Wow, what are we doing? We don’t like living in suburbs that much,’” Ms. Strelecky explained.
This realization prompted them to look for something closer to their West Seattle home that they could use more frequently. They initially focused their search on Portland, Oregon, a city a few hours' drive away where they had previously owned a hazelnut farm and felt a connection to its culture.
Their real estate agent, Francisco Stoller, noted the couple's attraction to the city's core values. “They really were attracted to the walkability, and also they really aligned with a lot of the ideology of Portland,” Stoller said. Their search criteria were specific: a two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit, preferably on the ground floor, with abundant natural light and easy access to public transit and local businesses.
The Rise of Urban Living for Seniors
The Streleckys' decision reflects a broader trend among older adults who are increasingly choosing walkable, urban environments over traditional suburban or retirement communities. This shift is often motivated by a desire for better access to healthcare, cultural activities, social engagement, and reduced reliance on driving.
Exploring the Options in Two Cities
The couple's search eventually expanded to include their home city of Seattle, where three of their four adult children reside. They evaluated three distinct properties, each offering a different vision of urban living.
Property 1: The Pearl District Loft
In Portland's trendy Pearl District, they viewed a 1,930-square-foot corner loft in a converted warehouse. Priced at $895,000, the two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit featured high ceilings, exposed beams, and plank flooring. While its location near Powell's bookstore and Union Station was ideal, the price was significantly over their budget. The monthly Homeowners Association (HOA) fee was also substantial at $1,816.
Property 2: The Goose Hollow Terrace Condo
Also in Portland, a 2,000-square-foot corner unit in the Goose Hollow neighborhood caught their attention. Listed at $699,000, it fit comfortably within their budget. The 1997 building offered an Art Deco style, a gym, and concierge services. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo featured three separate terraces, a gas fireplace, and large windows with city views. Its proximity to a light rail station provided easy connections throughout the city.
Property 3: The Seattle Townhouse
Back in Seattle, they considered a renovated 1,290-square-foot townhouse near the iconic Pike Place Market. Originally priced at $850,000, it had been reduced to $799,000. The one-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home featured an industrial aesthetic with stainless-steel cross beams and a lofted studio layout. Its prime location offered unparalleled access to downtown Seattle's restaurants and ferry terminal.
Comparing the Costs
The financial breakdown of each property presented a clear trade-off between price, space, and ongoing costs.
- Portland Loft: $895,000 price, $1,816/mo HOA, $13,744/yr taxes.
- Portland Condo: $699,000 price, $2,129/mo HOA, $11,888/yr taxes.
- Seattle Townhouse: $799,000 price, $1,195/mo HOA, $7,408/yr taxes.
The Final Decision: A Portland Retreat
After careful consideration of the location, amenities, and financial implications, the Streleckys made their choice. They decided to purchase the two-bedroom condominium in Portland's Goose Hollow neighborhood. The property offered the best combination of space, price, and urban convenience they were seeking.
At 2,000 square feet, it was the largest of the three options and was priced below their initial $725,000 target. The three terraces provide ample outdoor space, and the building's amenities, including a gym and concierge, add a layer of comfort and convenience. While its HOA fee was the highest, the overall value proposition was the most compelling for the couple.
The purchase marks the end of their search for a second home and the beginning of a new chapter focused on enjoying the benefits of city life. By choosing a location that prioritizes walkability and public transit, the Streleckys have invested in a lifestyle that supports activity and engagement, proving that urban living holds a strong appeal for every generation.
