We're barely two weeks into 2026, and already one of the big changes from the 2025 legislative session is hitting us right where it hurts: the reliability of those fixed-term leases we all count on for steady cash flow. I'm talking about HB 2134, the new law that gives tenants a fresh way to end a fixed-term lease early—without penalties—if we issue a non-renewal or certain termination notice first...

Speaking of which, there's a draft bill floating around in Salem right now, LC 222, this big housing omnibus package from early January 2026. Most of it focuses on funding tweaks and permitting shortcuts, but one section caught my eye: new rules around Oregon natural disaster tenancy termination when a rental unit gets severely damaged or destroyed by events like wildfires or major storms...

You see, Sherwood isn't just sitting back while recent state housing laws chip away at local control. The city council, led by Mayor Tim Rosener, called this emergency vote to put two charter amendments on the ballot. These measures aim to push back against laws that streamline housing development by limiting public input and notifications. If they pass, Sherwood would mandate at least one public hearing and expanded notices for major residential projects, and reaffirm the ci

Thanks to House Bill 3522, which kicked in on January 1, property owners like you and me can now use the faster Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED) eviction process to boot out true squatters—often with just a 24-hour notice. Finally, a pro-landlord win in a state that's seen plenty of the opposite lately. It's like the legislature woke up and said, "Hey, property rights matter too." Don't get me wrong, I'm all for fair housing and good tenant relations, but when someone's ille

But here's something that just landed on January 1st: House Bill 3521, bringing some fresh rules around holding deposits for rental applications. Don't worry, I'm not here to scare you—think of this as a friendly heads-up from one landlord to another. These changes are manageable, and getting them right actually helps you run a smoother, more professional operation. Who knows, it might even weed out the flaky applicants faster! Let's break it down conversationally, because no

But for those properties in unincorporated Multnomah County—those spots outside Portland, Gresham, or other cities—the county steps in on health and safety enforcement. It's limited compared to the big state and city rules, but ignore it and you could face inspections, notices, and fines faster than you can say "habitability violation." Let's break it all down, with extra time on the county specifics since that's where a lot of you have questions.

If you rent to Housing Choice Voucher (HCV, better known as Section 8) holders through Home Forward, you've probably already seen the letter dated December 3, 2025, announcing a full pause on approving any rent increases effective on or after April 1, 2026, through March 31, 2027. Yeah, that's a full year with no bumps allowed, even on lease renewals.

That is not a rounding error. That is not “west-coast cities are struggling.” That is the collective verdict of ≈2,000 sophisticated investors, developers, lenders, and brokers who were asked, “Where would you put your money in 2026?” and almost everyone said anywhere but here.

Portland has launched a groundbreaking loan forgiveness program to convert vacant office buildings into housing. Learn eligibility requirements, incentives, and how to apply.

As we head into the new year, landlords and tenants in Oregon need to stay informed about changes to rent control regulations. The Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) has officially announced the maximum allowable rent increase for 2026 at 9.5% for most long-term residential rentals, such as apartments and houses covered under ORS 90.323.

The 2025 Oregon Legislative Session, concluded on June 27, 2025, introducing several bills that directly or indirectly affect landlords and real estate investors. The 2025 Oregon legislative session introduced significant changes for landlords and real estate investors, particularly in manufactured home parks, tenant protections, and affordable housing. Key actions include updating forms for compliance with eviction, deposit, and notice requirements, revising policies for ren

Oregon landlords are navigating a dynamic environment shaped by legislative shifts and market recovery. Staying informed and proactive is key to maximizing rental income and minimizing risk. Join your local Landlord Support Association like the Portland Area Rental Owners Association; take their classes, buy their books, and even consider donating additional funds as non-profits like these are fighting the hardest for landlords in Oregon.

Oregon House Bill 3974 (2025) is currently under consideration in the state legislature, and it poses serious concerns for landlords and the broader rental housing market. If passed, this bill would cap tenant screening fees at $20, regardless of the actual cost incurred by landlords, and impose new restrictions on how landlords can conduct applicant screenings.

Oregon Senate Bill 1036, introduced in the 2025 legislative session, brings significant changes to the state's towing laws, directly affecting landlords and property owners. This bill aims to limit the authority of towers to independently tow motor vehicles and clarifies where tow vehicles may park while monitoring parking facilities[1][2]. Let's delve into the specifics of SB 1036 and understand its implications for landlords and property owners.

Oregon's Senate Bill 0722, introduced in the 2025 legislative session, brings significant changes to the residential rental market. This bill aims to regulate rent-setting practices and occupancy rates, directly affecting landlords and property owners across the state. Let's dive into the key aspects of SB 0722 and its implications.

Oregon Senate Bill 0599A, recently passed by the state legislature, is set to bring significant changes to the real estate sector, particularly affecting landlords and property owners. This bill aims to protect housing access by prohibiting discrimination based on immigration status. In this article, we will delve into the key aspects of SB 0599A and its implications for landlords and property owners in Oregon.

Oregon Senate Bill 0586A, recently passed in the Oregon Senate in the 2025 legislative session, introduces significant changes for landlords and property owners. This bill, aimed at modifying the termination notice period for tenants, has stirred considerable interest and debate within the real estate community. Here’s a detailed look at what SB 0586A entails and how it affects landlords and property owners.

Oregon's House Bill 3525 is aimed at ensuring safe drinking water for tenants, mandates rigorous testing of well water in rental properties. Let's delve into the specifics of HB 3525 and explore its implications for landlords and property owners.

Oregon House Bill 3522A represents a significant shift in housing regulations, with substantial implications for landlords and property owners. By understanding the key provisions and potential impacts, you can better navigate these changes and advocate for your interests. Stay proactive and make your voice heard in the legislative process. By incorporating these insights and taking action, you can help shape a balanced and fair housing landscape in Oregon.

HB 3521 mandates that landlords must pay a minimum amount of damages if they breach an agreement to execute a rental agreement after accepting a holding deposit from a tenant[1]. This provision is designed to protect tenants from losing money when landlords fail to honor their commitments.