5 Classic Portland Cape Cod Homes for Sale Now

The Cape Cod – a classic style, and not just in Massachusetts. That includes Portland! Like many styles popularized during the Colonial Revival, the Cape Cod moved across the country as an affordable middle class home with a simple but elegant style. Inspired by Old World cottages of England, these homes balance simplicity with a timeless character.

The most defining feature of the Cape Cod is a steep pitched roof with side gables. If you’re wonder what that means, it’s fairly simple. First, a definition. A gable is the triangular portion of the wall beneath where the two sides of the roof come together. You’ll notice below that the triangular portions of these homes face the sides, whereas the rectangular portion of the roof slants down towards the facade.

Historic homes of this style (the ones actually on Cape Cod, for example) typically feature a central chimney. But Portland Cape Cods, popularized in the 1940s, usually place the chimney on the side. However, they often retain the original charm with other features such as shuttered, symmetrical windows. To read more about this style, and Portland’s mark on it, check out this overview.

Now let’s check out five great examples for sale in Portland right now! To find these listings, we simply performed a Custom Keyword Search for “Cape Cod.”

#1 – 4206 NE 73rd Ave.

4206 NE 73RD AVE

To start things off, let’s take a look at a very typical example of the Cape Cod style. Steep pitched, side-gabled roof? Check. Shuttered, symmetrical windows with a central doorway? Check. Chimney along the side? You got it. This is really your classic specimen (we’ll see other examples that include embellishments that are common to the style in Portland).

The interior of the home is cozy and classic as well. But this home comes with its own updates you’re sure to find exciting. The basement has already been converted into an ADU, meaning potential for extra income or multi-generational living. Meanwhile, the backyard offers up plenty of space, including a covered patio as well as a covered deck. While still being the epitome of a cozy cottage, then, this property also ensures you have plenty of space to spread out!

#2 – 4444 SE 30th Ave.

4444 SE 30TH AVE

Next, let’s hop over to the highly desirable Reed neighborhood in Southeast Portland. As you can see from the above photo, this home also exhibits many of the same Cape Cod characteristics as the previous listing – but with some embellishment. First, you have the gabled, covered entryway with columns. Then, a couple of dormer windows add light to the rooms on the upper level.

Inside you’ll find elegantly defined spaces, with the living room centering around the hearth. French doors lead from the dining room to the backyard, where a stone patio and raised garden beds await. The chimney continues down into the basement into a family room or other extra space. Speaking of space… if the four bedrooms aren’t enough, the oversized garage will sure fit all of your favorite things.

#3 – 2480 SW Crestdale Dr.

2480 SW CRESTDALE DR

Now for a trip to Washington County and Southwest Portland. Here again you can notice the elements of a Cape Cod home, from the steep roof to the central doorway. A gabled overhang covers the entrance here. One deviation here is that the windows aren’t quite symmetrical, which could be the result of an addition. Certainly the huge attached garage must have been added at some point! Another interesting note: the chimney here is central rather than on the side, meaning the main floor is truly centered around it.

While that’s pretty Old World, you’re definitely looking at some modern elements on the interior. Particularly in the kitchen, with its high end gas range and wraparound tile backsplash. And the yard on this home is a must see. A sun room opens out onto a huge deck, which then descends to a sprawling green expanse.

#4 – 8026 SW 6th Ave.

Interested in Southwest Portland, but prefer to be a little closer to the action? This home fits the bill, situated in the heart of the in-demand Burlingame neighborhood. And it exhibits a classic Portland variation on the traditional Cape Cod style: an added front gable. In this case, that makes room for an exquisite bay window, adding to the light-filled atmosphere of the home’s interior. The restored kitchen and bathrooms keep the 1940’s alive (don’t miss the clawfoot bathtub) without sacrificing modern amenities.

The outside areas of the home won’t disappoint either. A large lot with plenty of space, including a huge patio. In winter, enjoy views of Mt. Hood.

#5 – 1845 NE 92nd Ave.

1845 NE 92ND AVE

Finally, we’ll go full circle and end back in Northeast Portland. This Cape Cod also bends the “rules” a bit, primarily because the front door is set to the side rather than being centered. But what’s really classic? The pale colored siding with shuttered windows. The color scheme of this house really calls out and increases the feel of an inviting cottage.

Inside you’ll find some attractive updates, including refinished hardwood floors. A new, high efficiency furnace ensures you’ll save on your energy bills. Outside, enjoy the spacious, private backyard with mature trees and attractive landscaping. This home is poised to be your personal sanctuary!

Let’s Go Check Them Out Together

If you’re ready to find the top Portland homes for sale, you’ve come to the right place. Cape Cod doesn’t appeal to you? Try checking out other styles of home, from Foursquare to Queen Anne Victorian. No matter what style of home calls to you, we’ll help you get into the home of your dreams! Call us at 503-773-0000 to find out more or schedule a tour.

Written by Stephen FitzMaurice
Published on June 17, 2021