Bend, Oregon, Realtors are reporting rising prices for land and homes, as homebuyers flock to enjoy countryside that is ideal for outdoor recreation.
"Bend is on the dry and sunny side of Oregon with incredible people and recreational opportunities," says Realtor Shelly Hummel . "The number of multiple offers continues to rise as do the prices for bare land of any size. Be prepared to offer above full price, expect to pay cash and have no contingencies just to be in the game. What that means to you as a buyer, is a strong seller's market with very little room in the price of a home. Many times, there are multiple offers on homes."
Says Realtor Richard Dyer , "Bend, Oregon is located nearly in the geographic center of the state and is the most populated city in Central Oregon. Bend is the county seat for Deschutes County, which currently ranks as Oregon's fastest growing county and the 90th fastest growing county in the United States. Bend lies on the transition zone between Oregon's High Desert country to the east and the Cascade Mountains to the west. At an elevation of 3,628 feet, Bend enjoys the predominantly dry climate of the Great Basin with sunny days and cool nights the most common weather pattern."
Dyer continues, "The countryside around Bend is an outdoor recreationist's dream come true. One can enjoy everything from mountain biking, hiking, rafting, golfing, hunting, fishing, rock climbing, camping, boating, downhill and cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, general sightseeing and much more. Bend is surrounded by vast tracts of U.S. National Forest lands to the west and south, as well as extensive BLM high desert to the east. There are vast unspoiled wilderness areas in the nearby Cascades.
About the market, Dyer explains, "For over a decade Deschutes County has ranked as one of Oregon's fastest growing counties and as a result the Bend real estate market has been booming, offering strong growth and appreciation. Average residential home sales in the year 2004 were $271,457 compared to $197,682 in 2000. In the rural areas near Bend, average home prices in 2004 were $405,097. Located in the pines with great access to outdoor amenities, Bend's popular west side has experienced a particularly strong market with choice lots and small acreages selling for $200,000 to $500,000 plus."
"The seller's market in Bend remains strong," says Realtor Debbie Tebbs . "There are a lot of buyers who have cashed out on real estate in other areas and are investing in our area. There are several new developments coming on line. This is such a great place to live and play!"
