When it comes to high end real estate every buyer searches for that “je ne sais quoi”.

Be it that elusive location in the mountains, private beach access or the house high on the hill. Or perhaps it’s the charcter, finishing touches and expert craftsmanship. It could be a number of things that add value beyond a monetary amount in the minds of multimillion dollar buyers. One thing that’s sure to match the right buyer with their unique and perfect home is starting off with an inquisitive agent, due diligence and a proven process.

Once upon a time, what started off as a single showing to an amazing young couple turned into hours long conversation about their hopes, wishes and dreams for a forever home. We also spoke about their past, where they were from, what they did and didn’t do. I took my time to get to know them in a familiar way that felt like old friends catching up on life. Before we knew it nearly 2 hours had passed in that property and fate was sealed- I would be the agent to find them their DREAM HOME.

To make a long story short we searched near and far. Inner NE Portland, NW Portland, Lake Oswego were some of the locations of properties that piqued their interest. Sometimes we spoke endlessly about what they loved and didn’t love about a home. Sometimes the tour was short and sweet over video chat if they were out of town and something came on market that they had to see.

Eventually their dreams came true with a home located in the neighborhood that I grew up in and know like no other- North East Portland. This home came equipped with everything they wanted and more: extensive millwork throughout, grand and open floorplan, large garage, covered and heated back deck, outdoor kitchen, a spa like bathroom with a sauna, a state of the art wine room, a home theatre, the list goes on. Once my clients decided that this house was the one I grabbed my negotiator hat and tool bag and went to work. Just because they were buying luxury doesn’t mean that there was not a deal to be had and if possible I was going to get it! After some back and forth we eventually settled $200,000 less than asking! A cherry on top for these ecstatic buyers. While I played many roles in this story: researcher, confidant, tour guide, expert, negotiator, professional and friend the most rewarding part for me was knowing I fulfilled each of those roles beyond expectation.

List price: $2,250,000

Sell price: $2,050,000

That’s what I call a VERY happy ending!

Jessica Ward

Broker | ADU Specialist | OR & WA

She/Her

My life is fueled by a profound passion for serving others and making a positive impact on my community.

https://youtu.be/x1kSQm5UdQo?si=Wam5-ZRcj3VTRn_g I’m a Great NW native and— five years into this industry—a broker known for delivering results while making people feel genuinely taken care of. I grew up in Portland and Southwest Washington, and I know this market—its neighborhoods, culture, pricing nuances, and opportunities. That lived understanding informs every recommendation I make. I’m inclusive of all people, price points and committed to creating a space where clients feel safe, respected, and fully themselves. I’m a mother to my daughter, Wynter Katie, and a dog mom to a very cute Yorkshire terrier, which keeps me grounded in real life and real perspective.

When I’m not working, you’ll find me hiking in the Gorge, wine tasting in the Willamette Valley, dining at local restaurants, hosting social gatherings, perusing an art gallery, flowing through hot yoga, drinking a good hazy IPA at a brewery, listening to an audiobook or podcast, attending a networking event, chaperoning my daughters field trips. boating on the river, or unwinding at local spas and bathhouses.

I stay deeply connected to my community through volunteering and board participation. I’m especially passionate about children’s needs—particularly those involved in the foster care system—climate impact and sustainability, justice and equity for people of color, and mental health advocacy.

My clients consistently rate their experience with me five stars, whether they are buying selling or simply attending one of the first time home buying classes I host for free to educate and empower the community. I’ve been called the “queen of resources and connections,” and I take that seriously. I’m known for navigating down payment assistance programs, grants, ADUs, seller financing, and non-traditional paths to ownership with ease and clarity. Think polished expertise with a side of “I got you.” Access is power. Education is leverage. And I believe everyone deserves both. I’m also a real estate investor who manages my own properties, including an ADU, so my guidance is grounded in lived experience. I understand long-term value, cash flow, development potential, and creative strategy—not just on paper, but in practice. As a black woman in real estate, I lead with excellence and purpose in an industry where representation is still very rare. I’m honored to be the first African American broker in Oregon state history to close a transaction with a Black-owned title and escrow company, but my greatest accomplishment is impact—helping clients secure stability, build wealth, and step confidently into ownership. I run a tight ship—transparent, strategic, and supportive—but don’t get it twisted, we’ll laugh too. I bring luxury-level service without the stiffness. Professional polish with real and genuine personality. To me, real estate isn’t just about property—it’s about security, freedom, and community. And when you work with me, you’re not just closing a deal… you’re building something bigger. Follow along: @Jessica_TheHomeGirl

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What Clients Are Saying:

Clients consistently share that working with me feels:

• Supportive and steady, even in high-pressure moments

• Clear and transparent, with no unanswered questions

• Strategic and informed, particularly during negotiations

• Personal, never transactional

First-time buyers say they felt educated and empowered. Sellers value my pricing insight and communication. Investors trust my numbers, perspective, and long-term thinking. Five stars—because the experience is intentional!

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Affiliations and Accolades:

• ADU Specialist
• Earth Advantage Certified
• Portland NAACP (Member)
• LRR Diversity Chair Award Winner
• Lents Neighborhood Association (Former President)
• Youth Rights and Justice (Board Member & Sponsor)
• Asian Real Estate Association of America (Member)
• National Association of Real Estate Brokers (Member)
• Portland Metropolitan Association of Realtors (Member)
• Broker Advisory Group at Living Room Realty (2024-2026)

 

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• T: 971-230-8164
• jessicaw@livingroomre.com