Jessica Ward Knows Lents

When people search for “history of Lents,” “Lents news,” or “Lents farmers market”, they’re not just looking for facts. They’re searching for connection. My personal and

professional journey in the Lents real estate community has shaped who I am as a neighbor and as a broker.

My First Chapter in Lents and Why I Chose to Live Here

Back in 2015, I began working as an event coordinator at a local business on the corner of 92nd and Foster. At the time, it was called Fruit Face, which later became Team Event Center. My journey with the owner of the juice bar started when he saw I was a patron of Working Class Acupuncture, the neighboring business at that time, and he invited me over for a fresh pressed juice. That connection quickly grew into something much bigger.

I worked directly with the owner to plan, promote, and run events. See our work HERE &  HERE: https://youtu.be/jeQZUN5-TsU?feature=shared These events focused on arts, culture, and philanthropy. Many were free or low-cost, which meant neighbors could participate regardless of income. As a result, this role became about more than event planning—it was about strengthening the Lents community.

Today, that same corner is home to Humdinger Pizza, a popular neighborhood spot. This change shows how Lents real estate and business growth continue to shape the neighborhood while keeping its community spirit alive.

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Returning as a Lents Homeowner and Future Real Estate Broker

In 2020, I returned to the neighbor hood as a first-time homeowner. This move inspired me to invest even more in Lents. I wanted to contribute long before stepping into real estate as a career.

Soon after, I served as President of the Lents Neighborhood Association. In that role, I worked with Portland Parks and Recreation to host a free Community Day at Lents Park. Families enjoyed food vendors, face painting, and games. These events showed me the power of community connection in shaping neighborhood pride.

Partnering with Path Home and Expanding Community Impact

My commitment to housing also led me to work with Portland Homeless Family Solutions, now known as Path Home. I helped secure new real estate that allowed them to expand their services for families.

Path Home’s mission is to empower families with children to get back into housing and stay there. Their vision is a Portland where no family experiences homelessness. Since their values—collaboration, compassion, connection, and accountability—align with mine, supporting their growth felt natural.

By using my expertise in Lents real estate, I was able to help Path Home secure the space they needed to grow their programs. This work reflects my belief that housing is about people first, not just property.

Living in Lents: Food, Culture, and Diversity

Lents is known for its cultural diversity. Neighbors come from all walks of life. On my own block, one neighbor is an attorney while another works as a grocery store clerk. This diversity makes Lents both dynamic and welcoming.

It also shows in our food and gathering spaces. Zoiglhaus Brewing is a staple, offering German-style beer and hearty meals. Flip Side Bar & Carts brings people together with rotating food carts, live music, and a lively atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Lents International Farmers Market highlights the global flavors and traditions that make this neighborhood so unique.

Serving the Lents Real Estate Community as a Broker

As a broker, I’ve helped buyers and sellers navigate the Lents real estate market. My deep roots in the neighborhood give me insight into what makes this market unique.

I’m also a big fan of the Portland Pickles. Every summer, Walker Stadium in Lents Park fills with baseball, laughter, and community pride.

Why Lents Real Estate and Community Matter

The history of Lents tells a story of resilience and growth. The neighborhood keeps evolving with new housing, businesses, and community projects. At the same time, traditions like the farmers market and neighborhood events keep our cultural roots alive.

When people search for “Lents Portland news”, they’re really asking what life here is like. As someone who has lived, worked, and invested in Lents, I can say it’s a place full of energy, opportunity, and heart.

Final Thoughts

For me, Lents isn’t just a neighborhood—it’s home. From coordinating events on Foster Road to buying a house here. From supporting Path Home to cheering on the Pickles. From enjoying a pint at Zoiglhaus to grabbing a slice at Humdinger Pizza. My connection to Lents is personal, lasting, and growing.

If you’re curious about the real estate market in Lents, the latest Lents news, or just want to talk about the best food carts near 92nd and Foster, I’d love to connect.

Because when it comes to Lents, I don’t just know the area—I live it.

See my YouTube video: HERE

Check out my blog post Jessica Ward knows outer NEP: HERE

LENTS

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.

  A proud Pacific NW native, I am intimately acquainted with the fabric of local life – its people, its treasures, and its countless opportunities. My sociable nature thrives on connection, and I embrace the roles of an active listener and clear communicator, values that underpin the ability to forge authentic bonds. Aptly dubbed the “queen of resources and connections” by my clients, I bring an extensive bag of “hats” I wear to the world of real estate. I seamlessly meld a vast reservoir of industry knowledge with a deeply personalized touch, ensuring that every individual need is met. My specializations encompass an array of real estate experience and knowledge. From guiding first-time home buyers, strategizing with investors, building with developers, to facilitating seamless relocations for those venturing from afar. I'm also known to expertly navigate the intricate terrain of down payment assistance programs, grants, and investment opportunities.

Follow me: @Jessica_TheHomeGirl

Affiliations and Accolades:

• ADU Specialist
• Earth Advantage Certified
• Licensed Broker in Oregon & Washington
• Youth Rights and Justice (Board Member & Sponsor)
• Lents Neighborhood Association (Former President)
• Portland Metropolitan Association of Realtors (Member)
• National Association of Real Estate Brokers (Former Board Member)
• Diversity Chair Award Winner (LRR- 2022 & 2024)
• The first African American to close a transaction with a Black owned title & escrow company in Oregon state history (Vanport title & escrow)

 

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