Ladd's Addition

Ladd’s Addition is one of SE Portland’s most unique and historic neighborhoods. With its unconventional street layout, lush rose gardens, and preserved architecture, Ladd’s offers a blend of character, tranquility, and strong market appeal. Below is a reader-friendly guide to what makes Ladd’s Addition special—and what buyers and sellers should know about its real estate dynamics.

Neighborhood Character & Location

Where is it exactly?

Ladd’s Addition is situated in inner Southeast Portland, roughly bounded by SE Hawthorne Boulevard to the north, SE Division Street to the south, SE 12th Avenue to the west, and SE 20th Avenue to the east. It is formally part of the Hosford-Abernethy neighborhood association.

A neighborhood with historic design & intentional planning

Ladd’s Addition is Portland’s oldest planned residential community and one of the oldest in the western United States. Designed in the late 19th / early 20th century by William S. Ladd, the neighborhood deviates from Portland’s usual grid: it features a “wagon wheel” or radial street pattern with a central circular park (Ladd Circle) and four diamond-shaped rose gardens at key intersections. Many of the streets are named after tree or plant species (Maple, Elm, Mulberry, Spruce). The layout, alleys, setbacks, and lot sizes have remained largely unchanged since the early platting.

Because of its unique layout, Ladd’s Addition stands out visually on maps and in aerial views—diagonal and curved streets contrast sharply with the surrounding grid.

Transit, walkability & connectivity

Though primarily residential, Ladd’s Addition is just a short walk or bike ride from the Hawthorne and Division commercial corridors, giving residents access to cafés, restaurants, retail, and transit lines. Its proximity to inner SE Portland means downtown, Eastbank, and nearby neighborhoods are reachable without long commutes.

What You’ll See in the Neighborhood

Housing Styles & Variety

Ladd’s Addition is known for historic homes built mostly between 1905 and 1930. Architectural styles include Craftsman, Bungalow, Colonial Revival, Tudor, Mission, and Old Portland varieties. Some blocks also include infill or smaller modern homes, but the neighborhood is heavily dominated by vintage, well-preserved residences. Because the lots are smaller in many parts, and because of the strict preservation ethos, new construction is relatively rare.

Local Flavor & Walkability

• The rose gardens are a defining feature: each of the four diamond corners has a maintained rose test garden, and the central Ladd Circle is a landscaped, peaceful green core.
• Many alleys remain intact, with minimal curb cuts — giving the streetscape continuity and fewer interruptions from driveways.
• While largely residential, residents are just a short walk from Hawthorne and Division corridors, making local shopping, cafés, and restaurants easily accessible.
• The neighborhood is forested, with mature trees forming a canopy over many streets, contributing to a quiet and leafy feel.

Who Typically Lives Here?

• Buyers who prioritize historic character, prestige, and distinctive neighborhoods
• Professionals, executives, and families seeking a stable, upscale enclave
• Those who appreciate walkability and proximity to inner SE corridors
• Homebuyers willing to invest in maintenance and preservation
• People looking for a refined, peaceful environment close to urban amenities

Tips for Buyers & Sellers in Ladd’s Addition

For Buyers

• Be financially ready and decisive. Because listings are rare and often receive multiple offers, having financing in place is critical.
• Understand preservation constraints. Many homes are in historic districts, so renovations and updates may have restrictions.
• Choose blocks carefully. Some parts nearer to Hawthorne/Division or alley access may command different premiums.
• Inspect thoroughly. Older homes may require structural, plumbing, or electrical updates—knowing what you’re getting is vital.

For Sellers

• Emphasize heritage & landscaping. The rose gardens, original woodwork, mature trees, and unique layout are major selling features.
• Stage for timeless appeal. Let the architecture shine—don’t over-modernize in ways that conflict with the historic look.
• Market with narrative + location. Use keywords like “historic Ladd’s Addition home,” “Ladd Circle residence,” “inner SE Portland gem.”
• Price with nuance. Overpricing can deter interest in a delicate supply-constrained market; realistic pricing tends to perform better.

Bottom Line

Ladd’s Addition occupies a rare niche in Portland’s real estate: iconic history, distinctive layout, inner SE location, and enduring appeal. While its status means higher price points and selective availability, the neighborhood’s charm, relative stability, and prestige make it a compelling choice for discerning buyers—and a rewarding neighborhood for thoughtful sellers.

If you’re interested in buying or selling in Ladd’s Addition, I’d love to help with market comps, deeper trend analysis, or uncovering upcoming listings that match your goals.