Last year, the summer home tour altered course and showcased luxury condos in the Pearl District.

After a year highlighting existing condominium projects, the 35th annual showcase will once again feature new homes in a new development – this time above Forest Heights in Northwest Portland. At least five homes are scheduled to be built in the new Cresap Summit development near Skyline and Thompson by the July 31 kick off date.

The switch will result in a display of lower-priced homes, however. The nine penthouses in last year’s show ranged from $1 million to $2.5 million. In contrast, this year’s homes are expected to be priced from $750,000 to $1 million. They will also be built to Earth Advantage Silver standards or higher, and will range in size from 2,700 to 3,500 square feet.

“The trend in luxury building right now is to build smaller, more affordable homes that have more flexible living spaces and leave a smaller carbon footprint,” says Haskins.

Two builders have already agreed to feature pre-sold homes in the show, Renaissance Homes and Hearth and Home. Two or three other builders are expected to sign on soon.

It remains to be seen if the homes will be viewed as 1) affordable and/or 2) luxurious.