Saturday, May 24, 2014

Bend Population Growth Fastest in State

The population in Bend Oregon grew 2.9% from 2012 to 2013 according to census estimates recently released.  Bend's population is estimated to be 81,236 as of July 1, 2013 and it looks to continue if you look at the real estate market.

Another interesting statistic is that baby boomers no longer represent the largest segment of the population.  There are currently more 22 year olds in the United State than any other age.

The Bend real estate market is reflecting the growing population.  I'm finding there are more retired couples moving to Bend than in recent history.  This is putting a high demand on single level homes and homes with the master suite on the main level.

Prices of homes in Bend are also going up.  Prices last year went up approximately 12.9% and it looks like they are going up even more this year.  The cost of new construction has gone up close to 20% and there is shortage of moderately priced lots.

New home construction is booming once again.  One reason prices are going up is that there is a shortage on subcontractors available.  The cost of labor is going up as well as the cost of materials.

A client of mine is building a single level home in Awbrey Glen which is a very nice gated golf course community on the west side of Bend. It has a triple car garage and looks like it will be priced around $750,000.

I built a passive solar home last year and my builder tells me it would cost about 15% more to build it this year.   I paid $45,000 a few years ago for my lot and the lot 3 doors down just came on the market for $99,500 and I'm told it has a very good offer already.

So, once again the Bend is growing and our real estate prices are going up.  Now is the time to buy.  You know the old saying "you snooze you loose."  Give me a call, text or email and let me know how I can help you find your new home in Bend.

Friday, May 23, 2014

Awbrey Glen Market Update

The real estate market in Awbrey Glen is very limited as most of the lots have been built out.  There are a few lots still available.  To see lots that are currently for sale click on the following link.  Awbrey Glen Lots for sale. 

A client of mine is currently building a single level home on a half acre lot he will be selling it this fall.  To see homes currently for sale in Awbrey Glen click on the following link.  Awbrey Glen Homes for sale.

I have been selling quality homes in Bend Oregon since 1981.  Feel free to contact me with any of your real estate questions.  I specialize is the sale of quality homes.

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Bend Oregon Passive Solar Homes

BEND OREGON PASSIVE SOLAR HOMES will become more and more popular as heating costs continue to rise.  There are many things to consider when building or buying a passive solar home.

Orientation to the sun, type of construction, solar mass, heating system, windows, style, heat recovery ventilation systems and landscaping are a few factors to consider.

My wife and I have lived in our passive solar home for less than a year as of this post but it is proving to be extremely efficient and very comfortable.  We installed a Trombe wall which is a large amount of solar mass inside the home sitting behind a windows that have high solar gain.

The temperature between the wall and the window reached 94 degrees this past December and the inside temperature reached 76 when we decided to open a few windows.  It's really nice to have fresh air coming into your home in the dead of winter!

For more information on our passive solar home click on the link in the first sentence.  Feel free to contact me with any questions about solar homes or Bend Oregon real estate in general.