A curated set of official, public resources for researching a property, checking for hidden risks, and finding real financial help. No logins, no sales pitch. Just the same trustworthy sources I use with my own clients.
The gold standard for Portland property data: permits, property taxes, school boundaries, and crime statistics.
Why it matters: See whether a basement remodel was actually permitted, or check the sewer repair history, before you ever step inside for a tour.
An interactive map of Portland's 94 neighborhoods with demographic, socio-economic, and housing data.
Why it matters: Compare neighborhood profiles side by side to find the community that fits your lifestyle, not just your budget.
Detailed blueprints, historical permit cards, and trade specific records for electrical and plumbing work.
Why it matters: Verify major renovations were inspected and approved by the city, so you do not inherit unpermitted work.
Official tax records, assessment history, and ownership details.
Why it matters: Calculate your true monthly payment from actual historical tax bills, not a real estate site's estimate.
Shows what can and cannot be built on a specific lot or nearby.
Why it matters: Essential if you want to add an ADU, or to make sure an apartment building will not go up next door.
Check whether an underground heating oil tank was ever registered, decommissioned, or reported leaking.
Why it matters: Abandoned oil tanks are a common hidden liability in Portland. Catch known issues before you buy.
Maps wildfire risk levels and defensible-space requirements statewide.
Why it matters: Understand potential insurance costs and safety requirements near wooded or urban wildland areas.
Visualizes geological hazards: earthquake liquefaction zones, landslides, and floodplains.
Why it matters: In the Pacific Northwest, knowing if a home sits on a landslide prone slope or high shake zone is critical for safety and insurance.
Second-mortgage loans that help cover down payments for income-qualified buyers within city limits.
Why it matters: Bridges the cash gap for buyers who can afford a monthly payment but have not saved a full down payment yet.
State-sponsored lending products for low-to-moderate-income buyers.
Why it matters: Often offers lower interest rates and lower down payment requirements than standard market loans.
A matched savings program where the state matches your savings, often $3 to $5 for every $1, toward a home purchase.
Why it matters: One of the most powerful ways for first-time buyers in Oregon to build a down payment quickly.
A step-by-step federal guide to the mortgage process, including the Know Before You Owe toolkits.
Why it matters: A neutral place to understand Loan Estimates and Closing Disclosures, so fees never surprise you.
An educational guide to the fees involved in closing a real estate transaction.
Why it matters: Demystifies closing cost items like escrow fees, title insurance, and recording fees.
A local nonprofit offering homebuyer education classes, credit coaching, and financial planning.
Why it matters: Most down payment assistance programs require their certificate, making it an essential first stop.
Bilingual (English and Spanish) homeownership support, including financial coaching and HUD-approved education.
Why it matters: Specialized support for the Latino community and other underserved populations in the Portland metro.
A nonprofit focused on increasing homeownership and stability for Black and African American families in Portland.
Why it matters: Hosts an annual Homeownership Fair and provides culturally specific counseling on local housing history.
These tools are powerful on their own. They're even better with someone who knows how to read them. Let's talk through your situation. No pressure, no commitment.
Let's TalkOr text or call 908-625-5311
Timmy@moverealestate.org