Bend Premier Real Estate is Pleased to Welcome Drue Ripp

Drue Ripp is a versatile and experienced real estate professional who understands the diverse needs of clients, whether they are in the process of growing their family or looking to downsize their home. With over 35 years of residency in Bend, Drue possesses a deep understanding of the local community, its amenities, and the real estate market.

As a devoted mother of three daughters, Drue has personal experience in finding a home that accommodates a growing family. She recognizes the importance of space, proximity to schools, and a family-friendly environment. Drue can offer valuable insights into the local school system, different neighborhoods suitable for families, and available amenities.

Additionally, Drue empathizes with clients who are looking to downsize their home. As her children have grown and she understands the desire for a more manageable living space without compromising comfort or life...

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Paulina Peak in Newberry Crater Provides Great Views

We have hiked Paulina Peak a number of times over several years, but haven't had the opportunity to do so this year until last Saturday, June 10, 2023. After a long winter with a lot of snowfall later in the season, access to higher elevations has been limited. However, the road to Paulina Peak provided us who hiked or mountain biked a chance to climb to almost 8000 feet and experience the beautiful views available from the top. 

The road to Paulina Peak climbs 1600 feet over 3.75 miles, slightly longer than the trail, but easier to travel on, especially with snow on the trail and no motorized vehicles allowed to drive the road yet. While people were entering Newberry Volcanic National Monument and driving to Paulina and Eastlake, we saw no other hikers on the road to the Peak while we were there. Rather, only one mountain biker passed us during our hike and we chatted for a bit at the viewpoint at the top before he headed down. All in all, it was a wonderful day for a great hike in Central Oregon.

What's in the June 2023 Bend Premier Real Estate Newsletter?

• May Bend Home Sales Remain Mixed
• Watermelon Shrub
• Real Estate is Still Considered the Best Long Term Investment
• Tumalo Mountain June 2023
• Moving Now Can Give Your Home its Day in the Sun

 Bend Single Family Home Sales Figures Remain Mixed

The May 2023 Bend real estate sales have been published and reflect a market in transition. Inventory levels are growing, but a strong seller's market remains. High mortgage interest rates continue to impact buyer's purchasing power and while average home prices are down slightly, they are not at a level that would significantly affect most Bend home buyers. As we enter our summer peak selling season, the question on how mortgage rates and inventory levels will reflect in 2023 home sales will be answered.

When May 2023 Bend single family home sales on less than an acre are compared with those from May of 2022, the following changes can be noted:

• Average sales price down 3.1% to $861,432
• Median sales price up .8% to $746,250
• New listings down 26.7% to 222
• Homes for sale down 21.1% to 265
• Pending sales down 21.8% to 172

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Tumalo Mountain Trail Covered With Snow

We typically hike Tumalo Mountain once a year - usually late spring/early summer once the snow melts. However, we have been anxious to get back into the Cascades after a winter of hiking in the High Desert and the opportunity to tackle Tumalo Mountain arose last Saturday. Tumalo Mountain, just north east of Mt. Bachelor, has a height of 7,779 feet. The hike up to its peak climbs over 1400 feet in two miles and is considered difficult due to its steepness.  However, we have never attempted this hike with snow on the ground and found the trail challenging. The snow drifts were from 3 to 6 feet, although the snow was compacted and we managed with a GPS to somewhat follow the trail to the summit using trekking poles and micro spikes. Once reaching the summit, the views towards Mt Bachelor and towards the Three Sisters and Broken Top were outstanding. After enjoying the views and a quick lunch, the return trip had additional challenges as the snow softened with the warm weather. All in all, we saw only one other hiking couple and a pair of paragliders jumping from the peak on our return. It will be awhile before the snow fully melts in the Cascades after the winter storms. But in the meantime, we will take advantage of any hike we can access as soon as it becomes passible.