In this issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia Wednesdays

🌄Bend, OR Weather

📅 What’s Up Central Oregon?

🎈 Up, Up, and Away: Balloons Over Bend Paints the Sky July 25–27

🎪🎡Jefferson County Fair & Rodeo: Four Days of Classic Summer Fun

📰Local News - What’s a Happening?

📰County Commissioners confirm District Mapping Advisory Committee appointees

🌮🍽️ Beloved Bend Eatery Reopens as Simon with Fresh Flavors and New Owners

 🚒⛑Fire & Rescue News

⛑️Search Underway After Six Go Over Dillon Falls - continued updates

🔥🌲Brush Fire In LaPine Near Darlene Way Quickly Contained Wednesday; DCSO Seeking Public’s Help

🚨Crime News

💊Drug Agents Seize Large Quantity of Illegal Drugs in La Pine Raid

💊Bend Man Arrested with Meth, Cocaine, and Fentanyl

📰Regional News

🥰Community News

🛣️Bend-to-Bachelor sign gets a summer refresh

📆City of Bend Calendar of Events

🚧 Road Closures & Construction

🔥Central Oregon Fire Info

🏘️Real Estate News

🏘️📊Central Oregon Market Report by Reed Melton

🪵Integrating Fire Protection in Mass Timber Buildings

💥Blasting underway for new 500-unit housing project in Bend 🎦

💲East Bend’s Former Costco Warehouse Hits the Market in April

💖Sponsors

😆Today’s Meme

🧠 Test your Central Oregon knowledge!

✅ Answer: B) Sisters
Expanded Answer: Originally called “Junction,” the town was renamed “Sisters” in 1888 to avoid confusion with Junction City in western Oregon. The new name was inspired by the nearby Three Sisters mountain peaks—Faith, Hope, and Charity—which remain iconic symbols of the area.

WEATHER

 BEND

SISTERS

MADRAS

What’s Up Central Oregon? 

Featured Events

 Up, Up, and Away: Balloons Over Bend Paints the Sky July 25–27

This weekend, Central Oregon’s early birds and night owls alike will flock to Bend for the much-anticipated Balloons Over Bend Festival, winding through Friday to Sunday across two vibrant venues: R.E. Jewell Elementary and COCC.

Each morning at sunrise—typically between 6:15 and 6:45 am—watch as a half-dozen or more colorful hot-air balloons inflate and lift off into the rosy sky. It’s a free, heart-lifting experience: picture glowing envelopes drifting serenely over the Deschutes River and Mt. Bachelor beyond.

As dusk falls, the nighttime magic begins. On Friday, head to COCC’s lawn from 5–10 pm for the Night Glow: tethered balloons pulsate in sync with live music, surrounded by food trucks, artisan stalls, and the whimsical “Balloon Blast” obstacle race for kids (ages 3–10). Saturday brings the glow experience to Redmond’s American Legion Park, pairing balloon luminescence with local brews at Redmond Brewfest & Night Glow.

Why it’s a must-see:

• A photographer’s dream: early sunlight, bold balloon colors, sun-tinged scenery—pure postcard material.

• Fun for families: kids will love the Balloon Blast and the festival’s interactive charm.

• Community vibes: music, food, art — the kind of event where your neighbors become friends.

• Dual delight: you can catch both neon-lit night scenes and serene sunrise flights.

Interested in taking to the skies yourself? Balloon ride spots may still be open—email the organizers for availability.

Don’t miss the spark and spectacle of this Font of Balloon Magic. Pack your blanket, arrive early for launch, and stay late to glow.

🔗 More Info 

Jefferson County Fair & Rodeo: Four Days of Classic Summer Fun

Madras is bringing the heat (and the horsepower) with the Jefferson County Fair & Rodeo, returning July 23–26 at the Jefferson County Event Complex. This free, family-friendly tradition packs in a full carnival, nightly NPRA Pro Rodeo action, and high-flying circus performers. Little ones will love the balloon artists, face painting, and interactive kids’ zone—while adults can enjoy food trucks, cold beverages, and live music every night.

Bonus: Kick things off early with the Fair Kickoff Concert featuring AC/DC tribute band Hells Belles on Tuesday, July 22. Whether you're there for the rides, the rodeo, or just the kettle corn, this is a true Central Oregon summer staple.
🔗 View Schedule & Details 

📅 Events: July 14 - 20, 2025 - Bend

🥕 Bend Farmers Market
📍 Brooks Alley, Downtown Bend
🗓️ Wednesday, July 23, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
🛍️ Farmers Market / Family-Friendly
Shop a grocery-style market along Brooks Alley, featuring fresh produce, meats, eggs, and SNAP-friendly vendors—rain or shine! 🔗 More Info (Bend Farmers Market)

🍴 Food Cart Fridays
📍 Discovery Corner
🗓️ Friday, July 25, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🌮 Food & Bev
Sample a rotating lineup of local food carts—El Sancho, Dump City Dumplings, Pizza Cart & more—paired with live music at Discovery Corner. 🔗 More Info (Visit Bend)

😂 Comedy at Hosmer Bar
📍 Hosmer Bar (Waypoint Hotel)
🗓️ Friday, July 25, 2025 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
🎭 Comedy
Unwind with Bits N Skits’ stand-up lineup featuring Christine Rogers, Steve Harber and headliner Christine Keefer—happy hour runs 4 PM–7 PM, 21+ only. 🔗 Tickets & Info (Visit Bend)

🎤 Summer Music Series at The Grove Market Hall
📍 The Grove
🗓️ Saturday, July 26, 2025 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🎶 Live Music
Join The Grove Market Hall’s free Summer Music Series for live local acts under the pavilion every Saturday evening. 🔗 More Info (Visit Bend)

🌾 Worthy Brewing Farmer’s Market
📍 Worthy Brewing Main Pub
🗓️ Sunday, July 27, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
🛒 Farmers Market / Family-Friendly
Grab farm-fresh produce, artisan goods, live tunes, and craft beer—plus support local nonprofits at the free community booth. 🔗 More Info (worthybrewing.com)

📅 Events: July 14 - 20, 2025 – Redmond & Nearby

🤠 Summer Kickin’ Concert Series: Chase Rice
📍 General Duffy’s Waterhole – 404 SW Forest Ave, Redmond, OR 97756
🗓️ Friday, July 25, 2025 | 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM PDT
🎸 Live Music / Country
Join country star Chase Rice on the BasX Stage for an evening of hits, VIP packages, and good vibes at Redmond’s premier outdoor music venue. 🔗 Tickets & Info (General Duffy’s) (Bend Chamber, generalduffys.com)

🛍️ Redmond Farmers Market
📍 Centennial Park – 725 SW Evergreen Ave, Redmond, OR 97756
🗓️ Friday, July 25, 2025 | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
🍎 Farmers Market / Food & Drink / Family-Friendly
Support local growers and makers—fresh produce, artisan crafts, food trucks, live music, and kids’ yoga every week. 🔗 More Info (Redmond Oregon Farmers Market) (visitredmondoregon.com, Redmond Oregon Farmers Market)

🍻 BrewFest & Night Glow
📍 American Legion Park – 850 SW Rimrock Way, Redmond, OR 97756
🗓️ Sunday, July 27, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
🎉 Festival / Food & Drink
Sip local craft brews, savor food-truck fare, then marvel at a summer fireworks night glow in the heart of Redmond. 🔗 Event Details (Facebook) (Facebook)

🎸 FANFest Concert Series: Classic Journey
📍 Blacksmith Public House – 308 SW Evergreen Ave, Redmond, OR 97756
🗓️ Saturday, July 26, 2025 | 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
🎶 Live Music / Benefit
Rock out to the Journey tribute Classic Journey in support of Family Access Network—kids 10 & under get in free! 🔗 Tickets & Info (AftonTickets) (Afton Tickets)

🎲 BINGO For Brightside
📍 Blacksmith Public House – 308 SW Evergreen Ave, Redmond, OR 97756
🗓️ Sunday, July 27, 2025 | 11:00 AM
🎗️ Fundraiser / Family-Friendly
Join this bingo fundraiser for Brightside Animal Center—play for prizes, meet adoptable dogs, and help support a good cause. 🔗 Learn More (Blacksmith Events) (Blacksmith Public House)

🌄 Events: July 14-20, 2025 - Sisters

🎨 4th Friday Artwalk
📍 Downtown Sisters
🗓️ Friday, July 25, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
🖼️ Arts & Culture / Community
Stroll downtown for gallery openings, artist demos, and refreshments during the Sisters Arts Association’s monthly artwalk. 🔗 More Info (Sisters Oregon)

🛒 Sisters Farmers Market
📍 Fir Street Park
🗓️ Sunday, July 27, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
👪 Farmers Market / Family-Friendly
Shop fresh produce, artisan goods, and enjoy live music and kids’ activities at this weekly community market in Fir Street Park. 🔗 More Info (Sisters Oregon)

🌲 Events: July 14–20, 2025 – Sunriver & La Pine

🎸Summer Concert Series Sunriver Resort
📍 Sunriver Resort – 17600 Center Drive, Sunriver, OR 97707
🗓️ Friday, July 25, 2025 | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
🎶 Live Music / Outdoor Concert / Family-Friendly
Pack a picnic blanket and enjoy live tunes by Inner Limits in the Backyard. FREE. 🔗 More Info (Visit Central Oregon)

🛍️Sunriver Saturday Market
📍 SHARC – Sunriver Homeowners Aquatics & Recreation Center
🗓️ Saturday, July 26, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
🛒 Farmers Market / Family-Friendly
Browse local produce, artisan crafts, and enjoy live demos at the Saturday market—SNAP-friendly and free to attend. 🔗 More Info (Visit Central Oregon)

🌱La Pine Coop & Garden Tour
📍 Little Deschutes Grange #939 & Various Homes – 51512 Morson St, La Pine, OR 97739
🗓️ Saturday & Sunday, July 26–27, 2025 | Sat 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sun 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
🌱 Family-Friendly / Tours
Explore backyard gardens, coops, and beehives on this self-guided tour—guidebooks $15, proceeds benefit the Grange Scholarship Fund. 🔗 Tickets & Info (Visit Central Oregon)

🐴 Events: July 14–20, 2025 – Prineville, OR

🎬 Summer Movie in the Park
📍 Ochoco Creek Park, 450 NE Elm St, Prineville, OR 97754
🗓️ Friday, July 25, 2025 | 8:00 PM
🎬 Film / Family-Friendly
Bring your blankets and snacks for a screening of Brother Bear under the stars. Concessions open at 8 PM; movie starts at 8:45 PM. 🔗 More Info (AllEvents)

🛒 CROP Farmers Market
📍 Stryker Park, NE 4th St & Elm St, Prineville, OR 97754
🗓️ Saturday, July 26, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
🛍️ Farmers Market / Family-Friendly
Stroll through the weekly market for fresh produce, artisan crafts, live music, and SNAP benefits accepted. 🔗 More Info (Crop)

🎨 Lavender Wreath Making Workshop
📍 A.R. Bowman Memorial Museum, Prineville, OR
🗓️ Saturday, July 26, 2025 | 1:00 PM
🎨 Workshops / Arts & Crafts
Learn to craft your own lavender wreath with Patti Smiley of Smiley’s Lavender Farm—materials fee applies. 🔗 RSVP & Details (Facebook)

🛍️ Events: July 14-20, 2025 Madras

🎪 Jefferson County Fair & Rodeo
📍 Jefferson County Event Complex
🗓️ Wednesday, July 23 – Saturday, July 26, 2025 | Gates open daily at 2:00 PM, Carnival rides from 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
🤠 Festival / Family-Friendly / Live Music
Experience the largest free fair in the region with carnival rides, NPRA Pro Rodeo action, circus performers, balloon artists, a kids’ zone, and nightly live music. 🔗 More Info (Visit Central Oregon)

🎤 Jo Dee Messina Live in Concert
📍 Indian Head Casino
🗓️ Friday, July 25, 2025 | 8:00 PM
🎵 Live Music / Country
Country music star Jo Dee Messina brings her six No. 1 hits to the Indian Head Casino stage—grab your tickets early for an unforgettable night. 🔗 Tickets & Info (Visit Central Oregon)

🍎 Madras Saturday Market
📍 Sahalee Park
🗓️ Saturday, July 26, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
🛒 Farmers Market / Family-Friendly
Mark your calendar for this vibrant weekly market at Sahalee Park, featuring fresh produce, berries, honey, eggs, teas, handmade soaps, and unique artisan goods. 🔗 More Info (Travel Oregon)

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Deschutes Public Library Events

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Local News…

County Commissioners confirm District Mapping Advisory Committee appointees

The Deschutes County Board of Commissioners has appointed seven community members to serve on the newly formed District Mapping Advisory Committee (DMAC), which will draft a proposed map for five commissioner districts. The committee was created in response to the voter-approved expansion of the Board from three to five members (Ballot Measure 9-173) and will meet regularly this fall to develop a district map for potential adoption and voter approval in 2026. Members were appointed by each commissioner and represent communities across the county, including Bend, Redmond, La Pine, and Cloverdale. The public is encouraged to participate in upcoming DMAC meetings, which will be announced at deschutes.org/meetings.

Beloved Bend Eatery Reopens as Simon with Fresh Flavors and New Owners

Under new ownership, Bend’s beloved Esta Bien has been reborn as Simon on NW Hill Avenue, helmed by restaurateur Roberto Cardenas and co-owner Chef Rocio Villalobos. The restaurant preserves its authentic Mexican roots—featuring slow-roasted birria, enchiladas michoacanas, chile rellenos, tamales, and Salvadoran-style pupusas—while adding creative touches like hand-ground mole spices and house-made salsas. A refreshed bar program showcases 100% blue agave tequilas, smoky mezcals, fresh-fruit margaritas, and traditional aguas frescas. Simon is now open and will celebrate its grand opening was Thursday.

 Fire & Rescue…

The following story is still unfolding and we will post updates as we are made aware of them.

Search And Rescue Efforts Ongoing After Six People Go Over Dillon Falls On The Deschutes River West Of Bend

Search and Rescue Efforts Continue at Dillon Falls West of Bend

Deschutes County, OR – Search and rescue operations resumed at 8:00 a.m. this morning as crews continue looking for the two individuals still missing after Saturday’s incident at Dillon Falls on the Deschutes River west of Bend.

Two drones were deployed early in the day by Bend Police Department to search the Dillon Falls area in coordination with swiftwater rescue team members. Three K9 teams also assisted, working alongside marine patrol boats to search the area downstream of Dillon Falls for approximately three hours.

15 swiftwater rescue team members were deployed to physically search high-interest areas identified by drone imagery and visual reconnaissance.

Recovery operations occurred throughout the day. No additional updates on identities are available at this time. Recovery efforts will continue on Monday. 

From DCSO:

Recovery Efforts Continue After Deadly Dillon Falls Tragedy

Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office search teams are continuing efforts to locate the final missing individual involved in Saturday’s tragic tubing accident on the Deschutes River near Dillon Falls.

The group of six had been floating together on inner tubes tied together when they missed the final takeout point. According to investigators, three were able to jump from their tubes and reach shore. The other three were swept into the treacherous whitewater below Dillon Falls—an area marked by a steep 15-foot drop and classified as a dangerous Class 5 rapid with powerful currents, rocks, and debris.

Two victims have been confirmed deceased:

• Amanda Loyd, 39, of Rockwall, Texas

• Lindsay Bashan, 33, of Parkland, Florida

The name of the still-missing individual will be released once they are found and their family has been notified. Identities of the three survivors are not being shared at this time out of respect for their privacy.

Search operations remain active, including aerial surveys by Life Flight and a Portland Police fixed-wing aircraft using specialized search cameras. A K-9 unit is also on scene. If necessary, side-scan sonar will be deployed for deeper underwater searches.

“This has been a heartbreaking and emotional event,” said DCSO Public Information Officer Jason Carr. “We’re proud of the dedication shown by our Marine Patrol Unit, Search & Rescue teams, and volunteers. Their coordinated efforts have already brought answers to two grieving families, and they’re committed to continuing the search.”

The public is asked to avoid the Dillon Falls area while recovery operations are underway.

As summer river use increases, the Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone to stay safe on the water:

• Know your route — and where to safely exit

• Always wear a life jacket

• Stay sober when recreating on the water

We’ll share updates as they become available.

Mother Of Individual Still Missing At Dillon Falls Releases Public Statement -07/23/25

The mother of the individual still missing at Dillon Falls asked the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office to release the following statement on her behalf. She asks for privacy and will not make further statements or respond to media inquiries.

MOTHER'S STATEMENT:

"It has come to my attention that there is misinformation circulating about the ongoing search and rescue operations to locate my child. I want to be clear and direct: my family and I have been in close communication with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and Search & Rescue teams from the very beginning. We are incredibly grateful for their support, professionalism, and unwavering commitment. The efforts of the deputies, staff, and volunteers have gone above and beyond anything we could have hoped for, and we deeply appreciate everything they are doing.

"This search is far more complex than most people realize. Many members of the public do not have full knowledge of the situation, which has led to misunderstandings and assumptions. As the mother of the missing individual, I support the approach and strategy implemented by the Sheriff’s Office and the trained Search & Rescue professionals. I trust the situation is being handled with the utmost care, expertise, and compassion.

"Out of respect for our family, I ask that people refrain from spreading false information, speculating, or interfering in this process. We especially ask that "Juan the Diver" cease and desist from making further public comments or attempting to participate in the official search. His involvement has not been part of the coordinated response, and we do not want the hard work of these trained professionals questioned or disrupted.

"Our focus remains on bringing our child home. We are not speaking to the media at any time and respectfully ask that no one contacts our immediate family. We are still in the process of notifying relatives who live outside the country, and we ask for privacy and space to navigate this unimaginable situation.

"Please continue to support the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and the incredible people and volunteers working tirelessly on this mission. We are releasing this statement to clear the air and move forward without distraction.

"Thank you for your understanding and compassion."

Search Continues for Missing Tuber at Dillon Falls

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Dive Team continues to search for a missing person swept over Dillon Falls on Saturday. The highly experienced volunteer team has already recovered two victims from the treacherous Class 5 rapids, where three others survived by swimming to shore. Dive Team Coordinator Kevin Rank emphasized the extreme danger of the area, noting strong currents, debris, and poor visibility ranging from six feet to just six inches. Using sonar mapping, underwater drones, and safety protocols, the team is committed to recovering the final victim—working carefully and tirelessly until all safe search areas have been covered. Central Oregon Daily News

Brush Fire In LaPine Near Darlene Way Quickly Contained Wednesday; DCSO Seeking Public’s Help

La Pine, Ore. – For the second time in recent weeks, a brush fire broke out near the transient camp on BLM land off Darlene Way and Rosland Road in La Pine. The Jolene Fire started around 2:40pm Wednesday, July 23rd. It was quickly contained thanks to the rapid response of Lt. Josh Spano, DCSO deputies, La Pine Fire District, and fire crews from the U.S. Forest Service.

No structures or vehicles were damaged.

Investigators believe the fire was human-caused, and the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is seeking a person of interest. Anyone with information or who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area is asked to call the non-emergency line at (541) 693-6911.

Crime News…

Drug Agents Seize Large Quantity of Illegal Drugs in La Pine Raid

La Pine, Ore. — A La Pine man was arrested Tuesday morning after drug enforcement agents executed a search warrant and uncovered a large stash of illegal substances at a property on the 52000 block of Sunrise Blvd.

The Deschutes County Illegal Marijuana Market Enforcement (DCIMME) team, with help from the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team, seized nearly 60 pounds of processed marijuana, approximately 6 pounds of psilocybin mushrooms, and small amounts of LSD, MDMA, and ketamine. A firearm and a large sum of cash were also confiscated during the raid.

Detectives found two disassembled marijuana grow operations in separate shop buildings on the property.

Kevin James Allen, 44, of La Pine, was arrested and booked into the Deschutes County Jail on multiple charges, including felony possession of a controlled substance and attempted manufacture of marijuana. Officials say additional charges may follow as the investigation continues.

The CODE team is a multi-agency task force supported by local law enforcement and the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program.

Bend Man Arrested with Meth, Cocaine, and Fentanyl

Bend, Ore. — The Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team arrested 45-year-old Jacob Allen Raines of Bend on Monday night after finding methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl in his vehicle.

Raines, who had three felony warrants and a history of drug convictions, was located during a surveillance operation and arrested in a parking lot on NW Sisemore St. A search of his truck uncovered roughly an ounce each of meth, cocaine, and fentanyl, along with packaging materials.

He was lodged at the Deschutes County Jail. Additional charges are being referred to the District Attorney.

Regional News…

Community News…

Bend-to-Bachelor sign gets a summer refresh

A familiar roadside sign along the route to Mt. Bachelor got a fresh coat of paint and a new beaver detail this week. Locals took time to spruce up the landmark, a nostalgic sight for many heading out for summer recreation. Central Oregon Daily News

 City of Bend Events

Friday’s

Real Estate News

Sponsored by

Central Oregon Market Report | July 23, 2025

by Reed Melton from “EnjoyBendLife Real Estate Group”

This morning, the national average for a fixed-rate conventional mortgage is 6.77%, the lowest in two weeks. The number of homes listed for sale in Central Oregon is at its highest level in several years, and price decreases are prevalent as sellers attempt to position themselves for a sale before the seasonal slowdown in activity. It is no understatement to describe this as the best buying conditions in some time. Yet, despite the fantastic selection and motivation of sellers, I hear a lot of talk about waiting for mortgage rates to decline. For the record, I do not anticipate a significant drop in rates until 2027. If you read the forecasts of major banks, you will see that I am not alone in my assessment.

For reference, the monthly payment difference on an $800,000 loan between 6.8% and 6% is ~$325/month ($4,714 vs. $4,379), while the payment on a $900,000 loan at 5% is $4,406. The chances of rates decreasing to 5% before 2027 are increasingly small, but a drop in rates to 6% would unquestionably bring a wave of buyers to the market. Across the board, home prices have remained stable through the period of higher rates. An increase in demand, which would lead to a decrease in supply, will inevitably result in price increases. Taking all of this into consideration, it is clear that the swing in potential monthly savings is smaller than many might imagine.

Supply is beginning to wane in Deschutes County, as fewer new listings hit the market, and buyer demand picks up heading into fall. This morning, there are 1,563 single-family homes listed, down by nineteen from last week. A total of 81 pending sales, averaging $958,039, occurred this week, with more than half (47) reducing the list price before securing a contract. The average price reduction for the pending sales was -7.13%. Sixty-nine transactions closed this week at an average price of $811,239, with an average price negotiated down by 4.69%. In many cases, price reductions compound, with a list price decrease followed by a negotiated price below the asking price, resulting in a discount of more than 10%.

Crook County supply decreased by one to 247 single-family listings. Six pending sales are averaging $620,650, with an average price decrease of 10.21% before securing a buyer. Three closed transactions occurred at an average price of $417,665, with an average negotiated price 11.37% below the list price. Two of the three closed sales illustrate the type of scenarios I am seeing in today's market: one home originally listed for $472k, dropped the asking price to $430k, and closed at $420k, while another started at $499k, decreased the list price to $430k, and closed at $418k. Those sales represent 11.02% and 16.23% total decreases!

Jefferson County inventory remains steady, increasing by one this week to 120 single-family listings. One pending sale at a list price of $317,950 showed a price increase of 0.63%, a figure not uncommon for new construction. The builder may have added central air or some other feature that increased the asking price. Three transactions closed this week at an average price of $516,333, with an average discount of 9.55% below the asking price.

The prices buyers are negotiating, combined with sellers dropping the list price on homes, are significantly helping buyers' bottom lines. Mortgage interest rates are only one piece of the puzzle, and not always the most important one. If you purchase a home at a lower price because of favorable market conditions, and refinance the loan when rates decrease, the average cost per month over the time you own the property will decrease. This strategy enables you to capitalize on a lower sales price today and potentially lower rates in the future.

Using the example above of a home purchased for $800,000 and financed at 6.8%, the increased cost of ownership over two years compared to a 6% mortgage rate would be $8,040. If my example holds, and the same home would cost $900,000 once rates decrease to 5%, it would cost you $91,960 more to purchase the property. Using a 20% down payment, the $900,000 would mean an additional $ 20,000 in down payment. I cannot emphasize enough how favorable the conditions are today! 

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Active Listings

Integrating Fire Protection in Mass Timber Buildings

Designing fire protection systems for mass timber buildings requires early coordination, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of building codes. From selecting the right wood species and structural systems (like DLT vs. CLT) to addressing flame spread ratings and integrating concealed fire protection elements, each decision can impact aesthetics, safety, and cost. Open floor plans and exposed features add complexity, often requiring custom solutions like draft curtains or fire-rated glazing. With proactive collaboration and informed choices, design teams can successfully balance safety with mass timber’s natural beauty. Read more →

East Bend’s Former Costco Warehouse Hits the Market in April

Costco’s former east Bend warehouse in the Forum Shopping Center has been listed for sale nearly nine months after the retailer moved to a new location at U.S. 20 and Robal Lane in October 2024. The property was made available for lease in March 2025 and quietly put up for sale in April 2025 (KTVZ).

Local Realtor Austen Anderson of Engel & Völkers Bend notes that commercial buyers are exercising caution, “watching their wallets” amid changing economic policies and likely waiting up to a year before making a significant investment (KTVZ).

City of Bend officials say they are unaware of any current interest in the site and recommend contacting the owners directly for updates, while CRA—the listing broker—declined to comment on potential buyers (KTVZ).

 😎 Just sayin

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