The Question Every First-Time Buyer Asks

If you’ve ever bought your first home, you probably remember the feeling: standing in the living room, looking around, and asking yourself, “Is this the one?”

I was with a young couple in Northeast Portland last week, and sure enough—that question came up. We had toured five houses in two days, and this one checked so many boxes: location, price, and even a backyard for their dog. Still, they hesitated.

Instead of rushing an answer, I asked them to imagine their life there. Breakfast on a Saturday morning. Coming home after work. Holidays with friends. The house wasn’t just walls and square footage—it needed to feel like home. By the time we left, they realized that while it had a lot going for it, it wasn’t the one that gave them that feeling.

Moments like these are why I love Portland real estate. A big part of my role isn’t unlocking doors—it’s helping people trust their instincts. And sometimes, the right answer to “Is this the one?” is simply “Not yet.”

That’s the kind of patience and guidance first-time buyers need. It’s not about finding a house—it’s about finding their house.

Every home has a story. We’re here to help you write the next chapter.