In this issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia Wednesdays

🌄Bend, OR Weather

📅 What’s Up Central Oregon?

 🎉 🌶️🥣42nd Annual Chili Feed & Raffle🎟️

 🎁 49th Annual Snowflake Boutique – Redmond

📰Local News - What’s a Happening?

 ✅ Update: Missing Woman Found Safe in La Pine

 💡 Triple the Warmth: Pacific Power Matches Donations 2-for-1

🗣️ La Pine Town Hall Kicks Off Sheriff’s Community Listening Tour

📺 📡ABC and CBS pulled from DirecTV in Central Oregon ahead of Oregon Ducks game

🏫 Realms Schools to Relocate for 2025–26 School Year

📰 More Local News For You…

🚒⛑Fire & Rescue News

🔥 Back-to-Back House Fires in Bend Serve as Heating Safety Reminder

🚧 4 Injured in Construction Site Incident in Bend

🚨Crime News

🚔 Redmond Man Arrested After Hit-and-Run at Bend Restaurant

📰Regional News

🌲 Oregon State Parks Plans Fee Changes and Upgrades for 2026

⛽ Vehicle Fees & Gas Tax Set to Rise Dec. 31—ODOT Issues Reminder

🥰Community News

🏆 $50K Schnitzer Prize Launches to Honor Environmental Innovation in the West

🖼Bend nonprofit HUE hosts ‘Art from the Heart’ fundraiser to support kids’ mental health

📆City of Bend Calendar of Events

🚧 Road Closures & Construction

🏘Real Estate News

🏡📊Central Oregon Market Report by Reed Melton

🥞🍔 Applebee's + IHOP Combo Coming Soon to Redmond

🌲 New Park Opens in NW Bend with Trails, Playgrounds & Beaver Climber

🏠 Winter-Proof Your Central Oregon Home

💖Sponsors

😆Today’s Meme

🧠 Test your Central Oregon knowledge!

 ✅ Answer: A) A military training airfield during World War II

Expanded Answer:
The land where Bend Municipal Airport is now located was originally developed during World War II as a military training airstrip. After the war, the site was turned over to the City of Bend and gradually evolved into a general aviation airport. While it never saw the commercial traffic that Redmond’s airport did, its legacy as a military training field laid the groundwork for the aviation-focused development seen today — including companies like Epic Aircraft, Leading Edge Aviation, and more. It’s a great example of how a small piece of wartime infrastructure became a long-term economic engine for the region.

GOOD MORNING

 BEND

Today in the Central Oregon Cascades

Detailed Forecast

Today (Friday)
Mostly cloudy this morning, becoming partly sunny this afternoon. There is a chance of rain and mountain snow, with the snow level around 4500 feet and little or no accumulation expected. Highs will generally be in the lower to mid-40s, with some valleys seeing mid to upper 40s. Winds will be from the west at 10 to 15 mph, decreasing in the afternoon. 

Tonight
Partly cloudy with lows in the lower to mid-30s. Winds will be light, becoming east around 5 to 10 mph after midnight. Patchy fog is possible in the evening and after midnight in some areas. 

Weekend (Saturday & Sunday)
The weekend will feature mostly sunny conditions after patchy morning fog on Saturday. Temperatures will be milder, with highs in the mid-50s to lower 60s, and lows in the lower to mid-30s. Sunday will be partly cloudy, with highs in the mid-50s to mid-60s. 

Outlook (Monday & Tuesday)
Mostly cloudy conditions will return, with a slight chance of rain showers starting Monday night and continuing into Tuesday. Highs will remain in the mid-50s to mid-60s. 

For specific mountain peaks like Mt. Bachelor, snow showers are possible this morning, with mostly sunny conditions over the weekend and a high of around 50°F on Saturday. 

What’s Up Central Oregon? 

🎉 🌶️🥣42nd Annual Chili Feed & Raffle🎟️

📍 Where: Deschutes Historical Museum, 129 NW Idaho Ave., Bend, OR
🗓 When: Fri Nov 7 & Sat Nov 8 | 11 a.m.–3 p.m. both days
🎟 Cost: Chili $10 (to-go available) • Museum admission FREE during the event

Ready your appetite for autumn! Join the Deschutes Historical Museum for its 42nd annual Chili Feed & Raffle — a tasty two-day fundraiser supporting its year-round programs and exhibits. The menu features the famed “Millie’s Chili” and assorted pies for dessert. While you're in the building, check out the museum (on us) and maybe pick up a raffle ticket for a chance to win gift baskets from beloved local businesses like The Old Mill District, Trader Joe’s Bend, Mount Bachelor and more. Come hungry, stay curious—and support local history.

👉 More info: deschuteshistory.org

 🎁 49th Annual Snowflake Boutique – Redmond

Get ready to dive into holiday cheer at one of Central Oregon’s most beloved traditions! The Snowflake Boutique returns for its 49th year, transforming the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center into a winter wonderland of handcrafted gifts, festive décor, and local creativity.

Wander through rows of beautifully curated treasures from more than 60 talented artisans offering everything from ornaments, home décor, jewelry, and clothing to metalwork, ceramics, and cozy winter accessories. Each item is handmade and juried for quality, making it the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts while supporting local makers.

Held in the Cascade Lakes South Building, the event runs Friday, Nov. 7 from 1 p.m. – 8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 8 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is just $4 (kids under 12 get in free), and proceeds benefit local charities and the Redmond Senior Center.

Start your holiday shopping early, meet local artisans, and soak up the festive spirit — all while doing good for the community!

👉 More info: snowflakeboutique.org

Bend

🎭 Theatre & Performance

Beetlejuice JR
Where: Open Space Event Studios, 1500 NE Lafayette Ave., Bend, OR 97701
When: Ongoing through Nov 8 (Select showings) (Nov 3 at 6:00 pm–8:00 pm; Nov 6 at 5:00 pm–10:00 pm; Nov 8 at various times)
What: A theatrical show about death and the afterlife — when teenager Lydia moves into a haunted house and meets ghostly residents plus the mischievous demon Beetlejuice.
More Info / Tickets: Listed on VisitBend events. (Visit Bend)

🎨 Art / Community

First Friday at Scalehouse Gallery
Where: Scalehouse Gallery, NW Franklin Ave., Downtown Bend, OR 97701
When: Friday, Nov 7 (evening)
What: Celebrate the First Friday in Downtown Bend with two exhibition openings and the 10-year anniversary of Bend Design. Free admission. (Visit Bend)
Kids Art With a Splash of Science
Where: Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend, OR 97703
When: Wednesday, Nov 5, 1:00 pm–4:00 pm
What: Young artists are invited to join a painting class that combines creativity and a little science. Fee applies. (Visit Bend)

🎵 Music & Nightlife

Lexis Shardé Live at The Barrel Room
Where: UPP Liquids, SW Industrial Way, Bend, OR 97702
When: Saturday, Nov 8, 8:00 pm–9:30 pm
What: A mix of stand-up comedy, improv and musical comedy by Lexis Shardé—fun and high-energy. (Visit Bend)

🍽 Food & Fundraisers

42nd Annual Chili Feed & Raffle (Day 1)
Where: Deschutes Historical Museum, 129 NW Idaho Ave., Bend, OR 97703
When: Friday, Nov 7, 11:00 am–3:00 pm
What: Fundraiser lunch featuring chili, assorted pies, raffle items; museum admission is free during event. (Visit Bend)
2nd Annual Get Wild Chili Cook-Off
Where: 61980 Skyline Ranch Rd., Bend, OR 97703
When: Saturday, Nov 8, 4:00 pm–8:00 pm
What: A fundraiser supporting Think Wild, Central Oregon’s wildlife hospital and conservation center. Taste & vote on chili, soups & sides. (Visit Bend)

😄 Comedy & Adult-Themed

Bend Comedy November Showcase
Where: UPP Liquids, SW Industrial Way, Bend, OR 97702
When: Friday, Nov 7, 6:00 pm–8:00 pm
What: A stand-up comedy showcase featuring Northwest comedians including headliner Julia Corral. Tickets required. (Visit Bend)
Adult Prom Night at Craft Kitchen
Where: Craft Kitchen & Brewery, Layton Ave., Bend, OR 97703
When: Saturday, Nov 8, 7:00 pm–9:00 pm
What: 21+ prom night party produced by Bits N Skits, with proceeds going to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (Visit Bend)

🥂 Food & Drink / Special Dining

Wine Workshop Series: Playing with Varietals in Oregon with Hundred Suns
Where: Flights Wine Bar, NW College Way, Bend, OR 97701
When: Saturday, Nov 8, 6:00 pm–7:00 pm
What: A hands-on wine tasting workshop exploring Oregon varietals with owners/winemakers Grant Coulter & Renée Saint-Amour of Hundred Suns Winery. (Visit Bend)
Party People Dinner with Brie Larson & Chef Courtney McBroom
Where: Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge, SW Century Dr., Bend, OR 97702
When: Sunday, Nov 9, 6:00 pm–9:30 pm
What: A cookbook-tour dinner event featuring actor/author Brie Larson, a signed copy of Party People, meet & greet, 4-course dinner inspired by the book. (Visit Bend)

🕺 Family & Multi-Age

Redmond

🛍️ Markets & Boutique Events

Snowflake Boutique
Where: Check event listing (Redmond)
When: Friday, Nov 7 through Saturday, Nov 8
What: Local craft and gift boutique event — good for early holiday shopping. (Visit Redmond Oregon)
More Info: Visit Redmond events

Sisters

🛍️ Markets & Community Gatherings

Sisters Community Event – Local Craft Pop-Up
Where: Main Avenue, Sisters, OR 97759
When: Friday, Nov 7, time to be confirmed
What: A pop-up craft-market style event for locals and visitors to browse handmade goods, gifts and art by Sisters Country artisans. (Event link via Explore Sisters calendar)

🕺 Family / All Ages

Community Game Night at the Sisters Parks & Rec Center
Where: Sisters Parks & Recreation District, 1700 W. McKinney Butte Rd., Sisters, OR 97759
When: Sunday, Nov 9, 4:00 pm–6:00 pm
What: Bring the family and join board games, card-games, snacks and casual fun in a relaxed setting. (More info via Sisters Recreation special events)

Prineville

🎟️ Family & Recreation

Open Riding at the Fairgrounds
Where: Crook County Fairgrounds, 3800 NE 3rd St., Prineville, OR 97754
When: Thursday, Nov 6 and Friday, Nov 7, starting 9:00 am (ongoing access)
What: Public access to riding arena and open riding sessions (horses/-equipment) in the fairgrounds complex. More Info: Fairgrounds calendar

Sunriver & La Pine

La Pine Senior Activity Center – Weekly Community Lunch & Activities
Where: 16450 Victory Way, La Pine, OR 97739 — Map
When: Tues, Wed & Thurs (Nov 4-6 and Nov 11-13) 11:30 am – 12:30 pm; plus Monday Night Bingo
What: Join neighbors for homemade lunches, fitness and line-dancing classes, crafts, and friendly games. All ages welcome; donations appreciated.
More Info: La Pine Senior Activity Center Events

🎨 Artists’ Gallery Second Saturday Reception
Where: The Village at Sunriver, 57100 Beaver Dr., Sunriver, OR 97707 — Map
When: Saturday, Nov 8, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
What: Monthly gallery evening featuring local artists, complimentary wine, and live music in a casual social setting.
More Info: The Village at Sunriver Events

🎵 Live Music at The Lake House – Erin Cole Baker
Where: The Lake House at Caldera Springs, Caldera Springs Dr., Sunriver, OR 97707 — Map
When: Friday, Nov 7, 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
What: Relax lakeside with friends and enjoy a beautiful sunset as Erin Cole Baker performs live at The Lake House in Caldera Springs.
More Info: Caldera Springs Events

🚴‍♂️ Charity Night for COTA (Central Oregon Trail Alliance)
Where: Sunriver Brewing Co. – Brewery Tap Room, Venture Lane, Sunriver, OR 97707 — Map
When: Wednesday, Nov 12, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
What: Century Commons Taps & Trucks hosts COTA for a special Charity Night! Enjoy local brews while supporting trail maintenance and volunteer efforts. Representatives will be on hand to share info and sign up new members. A portion of the evening’s sales benefits COTA.
More Info: Sunriver Brewing Events

🤝 Clubs & Organization Socials – Sunriver Area
Where: Various venues around Sunriver — Map
When: Weeks of Nov 3-9 and Nov 9-16 (check calendar for club meetings and interest groups)
What: Owner meetups, club gatherings, and community social events hosted throughout Sunriver.
More Info: Sunriver Clubs & Organizations Calendar

❄️ 4th Annual Winter Tradition Fair
Where: La Pine Event Venue (TBD), La Pine, OR 97739 — Map
When: Sunday, Nov 16, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
What: Kick off the holiday season with local vendors, handcrafted gifts, and festive treats at La Pine’s Winter Tradition Fair.
More Info: La Pine Events Calendar 

Madras

🎤 Music & Nightlife

Live Acoustic Evening at Desert Inn Sports Bar & Grill
Where: 1251 SW 4th St., Madras, OR 97741
When: Friday, Nov 7, 7:00 pm–9:30 pm
What: An intimate night of live acoustic sets by local and visiting musicians, pub-style setting, dinner and drinks available. More Info: Madras-Jefferson County Chamber Event Calendar

🛍️ Markets & Boutique Events

Fall Craft & Artisan Pop-Up Market
Where: Jefferson County Event Complex, 430 SW Fairgrounds Rd., Madras, OR 97741
When: Saturday, Nov 8, 10:00 am–4:00 pm
What: Browse stalls of handmade goods, seasonal decor, jams & jellies, and unique gifts — perfect for early holiday shopping and supporting local makers. More Info: Madras Downtown Events Calendar

🕺 Family & Multi-Age

Family Movie Night: “Classic Adventure”
Where: Madras Performing Arts Center, 600 NW Douglas St., Madras, OR 97741
When: Sunday, Nov 9, 5:00 pm–7:00 pm
What: Bring blankets or comfy chairs and enjoy a family-friendly classic movie on the big screen — concessions available, donation at the door. More Info: MPAC Event Calendar

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Local News…

✅ Update: Missing Woman Found Safe in La Pine

Good news from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office—Jezrah Starflower Tracy, who had been reported missing, has been safely located. Deputies made contact with Tracy in La Pine on November 5, just a short distance from where she was last seen. Authorities confirmed she is in good health and no longer considered missing.

The Sheriff's Office extended gratitude to the community for sharing the alert and helping raise awareness. They emphasized that public support truly makes a difference in cases like this.

 💡 Triple the Warmth: Pacific Power Matches Donations 2-for-1

This winter, your generosity can go even further—Pacific Power is matching every dollar donated to the Oregon Energy Fund with two more dollars, tripling your impact. Whether you give by mail, online, or through a fixed monthly bill donation, your contribution helps keep local families warm and safe. Donations are used in your own county and may be tax-deductible.

Last year alone, this partnership helped nearly 3,000 Oregonians—including seniors, children, and people with disabilities—avoid choosing between heat and basic needs like food or medicine. With a 2-for-1 match up to $144,000, every dollar counts more than ever. Visit PacificPower.net/Donate or call 1-888-221-7070 to give or get help.

🗣️ La Pine Town Hall Kicks Off Sheriff’s Community Listening Tour

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is hitting the road for a series of town hall meetings, starting with La Pine on Thursday, Nov. 6 from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at the La Pine Senior & Activity Center. Hosted by Sheriff Ty Rupert, the event invites locals to share concerns, ask questions, and offer ideas to help guide the future of public safety in their community.

Sheriff Rupert emphasized transparency and rebuilding trust as key goals: “We work for the taxpayers, and they deserve direct access to their Sheriff.” Additional town halls in Sunriver, Sisters, Terrebonne, and Bend are in the works. Stay updated at sheriff.deschutes.org or follow the Sheriff’s Office on social media.

📺 📡ABC and CBS pulled from DirecTV in Central Oregon ahead of Oregon Ducks game

Central Oregon Daily News

BEND, Ore. -- With the Oregon Ducks set to take on the Iowa Hawkeyes in a top 25 matchup on the gridiron Saturday, some DirecTV viewers in Central Oregon will be left in the dark.

Kickoff is set for 12:30 p.m. Saturday. The game is being televised nationally by CBS but Deschutes County DirecTV customers will not be able to watch. 

On Halloween night, local ABC (KOHD) and CBS (KBNZ) stations were pulled from the lineup for DirecTV customers in Deschutes County. DirecTV and Zolo Broadcasting, LLC (owner of the stations and Central Oregon Daily News) were unable to reach an agreement on retransmission fees.

"We understand how frustrating this is for viewers," said Central Oregon Daily's General Manager Matt McDonald. "However, we continue to provide both ABC and CBS free over-the-air for everyone to watch."

DirecTV customers in Deschutes County hoping to watch the Ducks on Saturday can use an antenna to watch CBS (KBNZ) on either channel 7.1 or 18.2, KOHD can be found on 18.1.

This does not affect DirecTV customers in Crook and Jefferson counties, which receive their ABC and CBS from KATU and KOIN in Portland.

Dish Network, TDS Cable and various streaming providers are unaffected by the dispute and will continue to deliver both channels. However, YouTube TV and Disney are in a dispute which has pulled all Disney products (ABC, ESPN and more) from YouTube TV's lineup.

For those wanting to see newscasts from Central Oregon Daily News, they stream weekdays at 6:00 a.m., 5:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. on centraloregondaily.com and the Central Oregon Daily News app. They are archived for up to seven days on the website.

🏫 Realms Schools to Relocate for 2025–26 School Year

Big changes are ahead for Bend-La Pine’s Realms schools. Due to rising lease costs, Realms Middle and High School will move out of their Brinson Blvd. warehouse space for the 2025–26 school year. Realms High will merge with Bend Tech Academy at 1291 NE 5th Street, combining their student bodies—104 from Realms and 135 from BTA—into a newly imagined program that draws on the strengths of both schools. A name and full program details are still in the works, with input from students, staff, and families.

Meanwhile, Realms Middle School will relocate to Buckingham Elementary on Hamby Road, next to Big Sky Park. Realms’ 140 students will have their own dedicated wing and continue their Expeditionary Learning model. The district is also building a new cafeteria and kitchen at Buckingham to accommodate the change. District custodial and safety offices, also housed in the Brinson warehouse, will move to other district-owned properties.

📰 More Local News For You

• SNAP-less: Food insecurity from Bend to D.C.
  On this edition, two leaders discuss the impacts of the federal government shutdown, including insights from Scott Cooper, head of NeighborImpact.

• Avalanche danger rises; safety workshops begin in Central Oregon
  Experts warn of early-season avalanche danger in the Cascades. The Central Oregon Avalanche Center is hosting “Know Before You Go” workshops.

• Veterans Get In Free on November 11
  Veterans receive free admission from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 11 to honor their service—featuring inspiring exhibits and artwork.

• Super Hot Rocks could power data centers in central Oregon
  Enhanced Geothermal Systems are being explored to power energy-hungry AI infrastructure in Oregon with deep-earth heat.

• Franklin Avenue lane closure shifts as Bend roadwork continues
  Construction delays have altered traffic on Franklin Avenue—westbound lanes between 4th and 8th Streets are now closed.

• ‘We all need to work together’: Wildfire threat growing in Central Oregon
  Local and state leaders call for collaboration as wildfire seasons grow longer and more intense.

• LISTEN: Bend Don’t Break – Katy Brooks 🎧
  In this podcast, Aaron Switzer reconnects with Katy Brooks, Bend’s new Economic Development Officer.

• Monsters of Destruction at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds
  Redmond hosted an action-packed show at the First Interstate Bank Center, featuring a best trick competition.

• Making a Difference: Bethlehem Inn transforms lives in Central Oregon
  KTVZ spotlights the shelter's mission through their “21 Cares for Kids” partnership, showing how support and shelter create lasting change.

Fire & Rescue…

🔥 Back-to-Back House Fires in Bend Serve as Heating Safety Reminder

Bend Fire & Rescue responded to two separate house fires within 90 minutes on Tuesday, both tied to home heating practices. The first incident occurred around 11 a.m. on Evie Drive, where occupants mistakenly added wood to a gas fireplace insert, causing smoke to fill the home. While the fire was contained quickly with only minor damage to the insert—estimated at $2,500—all residents evacuated safely.

Just over an hour later, crews were called to a fire on Deschutes Market Road after the property owner lit a fire in a long-unused woodstove inside a 1978 manufactured home. High winds and concealed roof spaces allowed the fire to spread rapidly, resulting in a total loss of the structure valued at $10,000. Fire officials urge residents to use heating equipment strictly as intended and to have woodstoves professionally inspected and cleaned each year to prevent dangerous incidents.

🚧 4 Injured in Construction Site Incident in Bend

Emergency crews responded to a construction site on NW Thurston Avenue in Bend Thursday afternoon, where four individuals were injured and transported to the hospital. The call came in around 2:40 p.m., and while the specific nature of the accident remains unclear, all emergency units had cleared the scene within an hour.

According to Bend Police, the extent of the injuries is currently unknown. The incident occurred at 51 NW Thurston Avenue, and authorities have not yet released further details pending investigation.

Crime News…

🚔 Redmond Man Arrested After Hit-and-Run at Bend Restaurant

A Redmond man was arrested Monday after allegedly crashing into Chi Chinese and Sushi Bar at the Bend River Promenade and fleeing the scene. The hit-and-run caused minor damage to the restaurant.

Deschutes County deputies later found 30-year-old Spencer Smith hiding in the bathroom of the nearby TJ Maxx. He now faces charges of failure to perform duties of a driver, reckless driving, and a probation violation, according to court records.

Regional News…

🌲 Oregon State Parks Plans Fee Changes and Upgrades for 2026

As 2025 winds down, Oregon State Parks is celebrating a year of trail maintenance, star parties, lighthouse restorations, and millions of visitors while turning an eye toward the future. Looking ahead to 2026, the agency is implementing several key changes to fees and operations in response to a projected $14 million budget shortfall and dwindling Oregon Lottery revenue. Parking fees will no longer be waived on Green Friday (Nov. 28) or for First Day Hikes (Jan. 1), and annual parking permits will double in price for Oregon residents—from $30 to $60—and jump to $75 for out-of-state visitors. The 24-month permits and Pacific Coast Passports are being discontinued, and Jackson County permits will no longer be honored.

Additional changes are on the horizon for spring, including new parking fees at more parks, dump station usage fees, and a shift in State Parks Day benefits—free parking will remain, but free camping may end. Public comment opens December 1 for proposed reservation and cancellation policy updates. Oregon Parks and Recreation says these changes are crucial to maintaining services and improving long-term sustainability, while also exploring cost-saving strategies, added lodging options like yurts, and potential new partnerships.

 https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/Pages/index.aspx

⛽ Vehicle Fees & Gas Tax Set to Rise Dec. 31—ODOT Issues Reminder

Heads up, Oregon drivers: vehicle title and registration fees are going up December 31, along with a six-cent gas tax hike, under House Bill 3991. The bill—passed in a special legislative session to prevent ODOT layoffs—has yet to be signed by Governor Tina Kotek, who has until Nov. 12 to do so.

If signed, expect these changes: title fees will jump $139, registration fees rise $42/year, and high-MPG/electric vehicles face a $30 annual surcharge. The increased fees apply based on transaction and expiration dates, so even early renewals could be affected if they fall after the deadline. The bill’s future is still politically charged, with potential efforts to repeal the tax hikes already stirring ahead of a 2026 ballot.

Community News… 

🏆 $50K Schnitzer Prize Launches to Honor Environmental Innovation in the West

The High Desert Museum in Bend has announced the launch of the Schnitzer Prize of the West, a groundbreaking new award that will grant $50,000 annually to an individual or small team tackling environmental and conservation challenges in the American West. Backed by Jordan D. Schnitzer and the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation, the Prize celebrates innovation, collaboration, and social impact—honoring efforts addressing water scarcity, tribal sovereignty, land stewardship, climate change, and more.

Nominations are now open through January 1, 2026, with finalists invited to submit full applications early next year. The inaugural winner will be revealed in spring 2026 and will also receive a custom artwork at a special ceremony in Portland. For nomination details and selection criteria, visit highdesertmuseum.org/schnitzer-prize.

City of Bend Events

Friday’s

Real Estate News

Sponsored by

Central Oregon Market Report | November 5, 2025

by Reed Melton from “EnjoyBendLife Real Estate Group”

Shorter days and changing weather are settling into Central Oregon, and the housing market is in the midst of the seasonal slowdown in transaction volume. But for the buyers active today, the deals negotiated have been well worth the effort. In any year, a significant number of sellers on the market late in the year are highly motivated to close by year's end, and this year is no different. While mortgage rates may be slightly higher than recent lows, they remain attractive, especially when combined with double-digit price reductions. Granted, the properties taking the deepest cuts were overpriced to begin with, but deals are still happening, and sales volume is up year over year.

Inventory in Deschutes County sits at 1,157 single-family homes, down 84 from last week, and up 90 from this week last year. Fifty-three pending sales averaged $853,089, with 33 of those reducing the price by an average of 6.29% before finding a buyer. Sixty-five sales closed, averaging $884,329, with 44 of those transactions reducing the price an average of 8.24% before securing a contract. The sold-to-list ratio was 97.4%, with the sold-to-original list ratio at 91.87%. Not every home adjusted its price, but several cut prices even deeper than the average, offering some great deals for buyers.

Crook County inventory decreased eight to 204 single-family listings. Four pending sales averaged $493,475, with one reducing the asking price by 15.33%. Eight transactions closed this week, averaging $609,875, with the sold-to-list ratio at 99.44% and the sold-to-original-list ratio at 93.85%.

Jefferson County inventory remains stable at 129, down six from last week. Four pending sales averaged $401,475, and all four listings reduced prices by an average of 8.95%. Two transactions closed this week, at $425,000 and $444,900. The closed sale at $425k initially listed at $639,000, a 33.5% reduction after 712 days on the market. The other closed transaction closed at 7.1% below the list price after 493 days on the market, notable for a home built in 2024. Higher mortgage rates and increased inventory have significantly altered the dynamics for many properties in Jefferson County.

For buyers ready to purchase this fall, who can find a suitable property, the conditions are better than they have been in several years. Much of this comes down to sellers being realistic about today's market. Overall, sales volume is up slightly from last year, along with prices, but in much smaller increments than the run-up to the peak market in 2022. Increased competition creates opportunity, but stability is the best word to describe the Central Oregon Housing market today. With another Federal Reserve rate decrease all but off the table until late January, there shouldn't be any surprises for the next few months as we transition to a new year and a fresh selling season. 

Sign Up for the Central Oregon Market Report

Sign Up for the Central Oregon Luxury Market Report

Active Listings

 🥞🍔 Applebee's + IHOP Combo Coming Soon to Redmond

Big changes are cooking in Redmond—the local Applebee’s is transforming into a dual-branded Applebee’s and IHOP. The remodeled space will feature two side-by-side dining areas and a combined menu, offering favorites from both restaurants, plus exclusive items only available at co-branded locations.

The parent company says the move helps keep business steady throughout the day by catering to both breakfast and dinner crowds. A sign out front confirms the location is temporarily closed for remodeling but will reopen soon. This comes after Bend’s standalone IHOP closed earlier this year.

🌲 New Park Opens in NW Bend with Trails, Playgrounds & Beaver Climber

Bend Park and Recreation District has officially opened Manzanita Ridge Park, a brand-new 3.5-acre community space in northwest Bend along Mount Hood Drive, just west of Shevlin Park. The park features a playground, a unique beaver-shaped climbing structure, open lawn, picnic areas, and a shaded gathering spot.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the new trails, including a connector path that links Manzanita Ridge Park to both Shevlin Park and Discovery Park, expanding access to the area’s growing trail network.

🏠 Winter-Proof Your Central Oregon Home

Stay warm, safe, and ready for whatever winter throws your way

Winter in Central Oregon can mean freezing pipes, heavy snow, and cranked-up heaters—and that means now’s the time to prepare your home. A little winter-proofing now can save thousands in repairs and ensure your family stays safe all season long.

🔥 Heating safety comes first.

Whether you're using a woodstove, space heater, or gas furnace, now is the time for maintenance. Clear a 3-foot safety zone around heaters, burn only seasoned wood, and never leave space heaters unattended. Chimneys and vents should be professionally cleaned and inspected before use.

🚿 Frozen pipes are a real threat.

Insulate exposed pipes, especially in garages or crawlspaces. Keep your thermostat set no lower than 55°F, open cabinets under sinks, and let faucets drip during hard freezes.

🧯 Don’t forget about smoke and CO detectors. Test alarms monthly, replace batteries yearly, and consider installing carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas—especially if you use gas or wood-burning heat.

✅ Quick Winter-Readiness Checklist

• Insulate and drip exposed pipes

• Shut off and drain outdoor hoses and faucets

• Schedule chimney or heater inspection

• Keep space heaters clear and plugged directly into outlets

• Test smoke & carbon monoxide detectors

• Set thermostat to stay consistent—even when away

• Use seasoned wood only in stoves

🔧 Local Help & Resources

• Frozen Pipe Prevention: protectyourpipes.org

• Fireplace & Chimney Inspection: Cascade Chimney Service (Central Oregon-based)

• Gas Fireplace & Furnace Maintenance: Diversified Heating & Cooling (Bend)

• Whole-Home Inspections: Deschutes Home Inspection

• General Heating Safety Tips: usfa.fema.gov

 😎Just sayin

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