Bend’s real‑estate market experienced a notable slowdown in October, marking the lowest level of activity since 2012. The decline matters to local residents because it signals more inventory, lower prices and reduced competition for prospective homebuyers.

According to the October report from Beacon Appraisal, released Monday, the average selling price for a home in Bend fell by 6.4% compared with the same month last year. Monthly home sales also dropped, declining 15.4% year‑over‑year. While the October figures were weak, the report noted that sales for 2026 are ahead of the pace recorded in 2025.

In nearby Redmond, the market showed a smaller price decline of 0.6%, but sales volume fell more sharply, decreasing 21.6% from the previous year.

Shane Cass, a representative for Stanton Residential with Keller Williams Central Oregon, described the October data as the slowest Bend market since 2012. He attributed the slowdown to rising inventory and a shrinking pool of buyers. Cass advised sellers to price homes correctly from day one, enhance presentation, and remain flexible with potential buyers. He added that homes selling within the first 30 days in Central Oregon still achieve about 98% of their listing price, while properties on the market for four months or longer see that figure drop to 86%.

The cooling market is viewed as favorable news for buyers who can manage today’s higher interest rates. With fewer competing offers and a larger selection of homes, prospective purchasers have greater negotiating power.

Local stakeholders, including real‑estate professionals and prospective homeowners, will be watching the market closely as the season progresses. The Beacon Appraisal report suggests that while October was a down month, the overall trajectory for 2026 may remain stronger than the previous year, offering a nuanced outlook for Bend’s housing sector.

Sources: centraloregondaily.com