Portland's Cube House: A Guide to the Unique 3200 SW Fairmount Blvd Listing Priced at $785,000

The distinctive cube-shaped home at 3200 SW Fairmount Blvd in Portland, Oregon, has been listed for $785,000. This property stands out for its avant-garde architectural design, which creates a striking "hovering" effect over a hillside in the Southwest Hills neighborhood. This article provides a detailed, objective analysis of the home's features, its position in the local market, and key considerations for potential buyers interested in such a unique property.

What Defines the Architecture of This Cube-Shaped Home?

This home is a prime example of contemporary modern architecture. The cube-shaped design is characterized by its clean, geometric lines and flat roof, a stark contrast to more traditional residential styles. A key architectural feat is the cantilevered section, which extends the living space beyond the main support structure, creating the visual illusion that the home is floating. The extensive use of glass floods the interior with natural light and offers panoramic views, a common feature in homes designed to integrate with their natural surroundings. For buyers, understanding that such a unique design may involve specialized maintenance and insurance considerations is crucial.

How Does the Location at 3200 SW Fairmount Blvd Influence Value?

The property's location in Portland's desirable Southwest Hills neighborhood is a significant factor in its valuation. This area is known for its proximity to downtown Portland, highly-rated schools, and abundant green spaces. Hillside properties like this one often command premium prices due to the privacy and views they offer. However, it's important to assess factors like slope stability and access, which can impact long-term property maintenance costs. Based on our experience assessment, the listing price of $785,000 reflects both the unique architecture and the premium location.

What Should a Buyer Consider Before Purchasing a Unique Architectural Home?

Purchasing a non-traditional home requires careful evaluation beyond a standard purchase. Key considerations include:

• Specialized Insurance: Unconventional construction can sometimes lead to higher homeowners insurance premiums. It's advisable to get quotes from insurers familiar with unique properties.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Materials and building techniques used in modern designs may require specialized contractors, potentially increasing upkeep costs.
• Resale Potential: While unique, a highly stylized home may appeal to a narrower segment of the market when it's time to sell. This can affect the speed of a future sale.

Prospective buyers should always secure a thorough home inspection by a professional familiar with contemporary construction methods.

Is the $785,000 Price Point Justified for This Portland Home?

To assess the price, it's helpful to compare it with local market data. The following table provides a simplified comparison based on general market trends for the Southwest Hills area (data sourced from regional multiple listing service aggregates, 2023-2024).

The premium appears to be attached to the home's one-of-a-kind design and views. The final market value will be determined by factors including the outcome of negotiations, a professional appraisal, and the level of buyer interest in such a distinctive property.

Purchasing a home with unique architectural character involves balancing aesthetic appeal with practical considerations like maintenance and marketability. For the right buyer who values design innovation and a premium location, 3200 SW Fairmount Blvd represents a rare opportunity in the Portland real estate market.