2041 NE MASON ST

The kind of light that makes a Portland winter feel shorter. This 1926 charmer glows on sunny days and stays bright and cozy when it rains. Original built-ins, wood floors throughout, French doors and a wood-burning fireplace give it real character, but what you'll notice first is how good it feels to be here. This is a house that lives to the outdoors. The living room centers on the fireplace, with French doors that open to a spacious deck. The formal dining room keeps its original built-ins, and the updated kitchen opens  onto a second deck, so morning coffee and summer dinners happen outside without a second thought. Upstairs, you'll find the coveted three bedrooms on one level. The lower level is a lovely surprise, with big egress windows that fill it with light. There's a kitchenette, full bath, laundry and its own exterior entrance. Use it for guests, a home office, movie nights, or just room for everyone to spread out. Outside, mature gardens, a fenced yard, a covered patio and two decks create a private, tucked-away retreat. And the location is the best part. Stroll to Alberta for dinner, Fremont for coffee or Whole Foods, and choose between Wilshire, Alberta and Irving parks. The block itself is friendly, with neighbors who wave and kids on bikes.