Now that spring is here the buyers seem to be more active and the banks are starting to place properties on the market that have been sitting for a while.

A couple of the homes that you will find on these lists have been sitting vacant  for several months.  That does not mean they are a better or worse home, I only point it out so that you will understand that these lists may start growing for the simple fact that the banks are starting to get properties put on the market for sale. The weather is improving although we certainly could use some of our beautiful sunshine.

Bank owned homes can appear to be the best deal on the block, but remember there are other homes that may be a better value.  My job is to know what you need or want in your dream home and help you make that dream a reality.

Each Box Below will take you to a current list of Bank Owned homes in each area.

Many of the buyers looking to purchase in the Central Oregon are are looking for the privacy they do not have in the city.  Many times a home on an acre does not have the privacy we search for.  Your search may be over, this La Pine home is currently for sale at $199,900 and is located on 2.31 acres. 

The home sits almost in the middle of the property giving you lots of elbow room – AND – it backs up to BLM giving you even more space behind you.  Although this home was built in 1961 it has been completely redone, from the floors, to the ceilings, plumbing and furnace!  This home shows like it is brand new!

Located within the city limits of La Pine on a well maintained road, close to Burgess and Hwy 97 so a commute to Bend or into the core area of La Pine is very simple. 

Just down the street from the new elementary school – Double sized garage with a single sized door gives you a place to park out of the weather and a work shop area in one building, lots of parking area too.

New decks for outdoor living and all that Central Oregon has to offer.  Come see this beautiful home and make it yours!

It has often been said that not all agents are equal.  As a buyer or a seller you have the opportunity to work with anyone you choose to.  Many times as a seller’s agent I am asked about a commission rate, and although I can be flexible and work with my seller to see what works under each circumstance.

Do you realize that there are agents that will “boycott” your listing or not show you a home because of the amount being paid to the buyer’s agent.  Sad but true and finally some agents are stepping up and taking a stand.

Melina Tomson a good friend and an real estate agent in Salem Oregon recently posted a great article she calls  The Iron Grip.  In this article she calls out agents that are publicly stating they will not show properties listed with a “discount broker.”  These brokers do offer business model that some feel will work better for them.  And maybe it sounds good – but remember that if it sounds too good to be true it just may be.

Locally, I have heard of agents not showing a particular agent’s listings or short sale listings and even bank owned homes.  The moral of this story is make sure the agent you choose to work with is providing you with service you need and deserve.

Personally – as a buyer’s agent I always make it clear to my buyers it is my responsibility to help them find the best home at the best price that fits their needs.  It does not matter who or how a property is listed I will show it to a buyer if it fits their needs… this is how I work, but does everyone?  The answer is NO – there are agents that do not show these properties and a buyer may never know the property exists – and the seller may never know there is a problem.

Remember it is your right to work with the person you want to – so be sure that your agent is looking out for what is best for you!

Wild River on Big Deschutes

Many of us dream of living on the river and in Central Oregon River Front Property is very popular.  There are very few areas along the Big Deschutes River you can actually hear the river and Wild River is one of the best places to find a home and occasionally a lot on the river at Pringle Falls.

The sounds of the Deschutes River can be heard throughout most of the neighborhood.  The CC&Rs are strong enough to keep property values and appearances of properties higher than other areas.

Wild River is located out Burgess Road and encompasses both the east and west side of the river.  Many of the homes have great views of the rapids and many others back National Forest.

Currently there are River view properties as low as $330,000 and a few more slated to come on the market up to $1,000,000.  With this buyer’s market now is a great opportunity to purchase a great home on The Big Deschutes River closer to Wickiup Reservoir, Crane Prairie and all the other great waterways of Central Oregon.  To see all the properties available in Wild River click below – make sure you let me know you are interested in Wild River.

Many of Central Oregon home buyers I have worked with this year are first time home buyers.  A first time home buyer is someone who has not owned a home in 3 years.  Many of these buyers are benefiting from the new tax credit of 10% of the purchase price or $8,000.

Some tax preparers have made it easy for these buyers to amend this years taxes to receive the credit this year rather than next.  Check with your tax professional to be sure what is best for your specific situtation.

Have you been wondering how the Obama “Stimulus Package” affects you?  Not everyone is eligible, but if you are buying a Home this year, you just might be. Kathy McGraw, Broker in California puts a little light on this subject here.

So, Central Oregon – What questions do you have?  Let me help you find the answers.