The 48th annual Sisters Quilt show, celebrated as the world's largest outdoor quilt show, was held last Saturday, July 8th. Quilts could be seen hanging from walls, porches, in windows, on fences and over balconies. It was estimated that over 1300 quilts were displayed throughout the town with over 10,000 visitors from all 50 states as well as some foreign countries. This year's theme was "Hidden Stories" and it was interesting to try to figure out the stories in these beautiful works of art.

Bend Single Family Home Sales Reflect Mixed Results

We have been tracking Bend home sales for many years. Bend has been in a seller's market since 2012, but the level to which the seller's market changed during Covid was beyond any we had seen before. Home prices skyrocketed with multiple offers driving sales and inventory levels dropping to two weeks at the peak of the pandemic. However, since last summer, the Bend real estate market has been in transition with rising mortgage interest rates the biggest contributor to the change. While high mortgage rates have greatly impacted the buying power of many home buyers, lack of inventory remains an issue. We had seen home price increases level off and even drop yea...

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Its hard to believe that after living in Bend Oregon since 1985, we finally attended our first 4th of July Pet Parade. This event has been a Bend tradition since 1924, only missing 1943 due to the Second World War and 2020-2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. We arrived early for our seats at 9:00 am with the parade beginning at 10:00 am.  By the time the parade arrived, it is estimated there were well over 10,000 people either participating in the parade or watching it. The pets involved were mostly dogs, but we also saw rabbits, guinea pigs, snakes, lizards, goats, sheep, ponys and horses. Lots of partiotism and fun for everyone. 

Iron Mountain is Known for its Wildflowers

We have hiked Iron Mountain yearly since 2020, with each experience a little different. For those not familiar with Iron Mountain, it is a unique "Special Interest Area" in that it provides for over 300 species of wildflowers in various meadow, forested, and rocky environments. Each year the experience has been different, although our hike is typically done during the same few weeks in late June or early July. This year, our hike on July 1, 2023, was warm and we met many other very friendly people and families enjoying the same experience. The hike itself can be challenging and if hikers follow the route we do (which includes the Cone Peak Trail and portions of the Santiam Wagon Trail) the trek will amount to over 1900 feet of elevation gain and a total of 7 miles. We suggest getting an early start, take your camera, and don't rush the experience of seeing the lovely flowers and stunning mountain views from the summit.

To access the trailhead, travel west from Bend over Santiam Pass to the junction with Hwy 126. Take this until Hwy 20 (towards Sweet Home and Albany) branch off. Travel on Hwy 20 several miles until you reach Tombstone Pass. Park in the parking lot there (bring your forest pass) and start the Cone Peak Trail at this location.

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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