Who Hit the Pause Button?
Winter has arrived in Bend, and with it, the market slowdown we expect every year. The difference this December is subtle but important: the pace has eased, yet the underlying fundamentals remain surprisingly resilient. Whether you're gearing up to buy in early 2026 or preparing your home for a spring listing, here's what you need to know about the latest market trends.
New Listings: A Seasonal Retreat
New listings slid again this month — roughly 20% fewer year-over-year. Not surprising for December.
Bend homeowners tend to wait out the holiday season, choosing to list once we hit clearer skies, longer days, and stronger buyer activity. Sellers are preparing for the traditional early-year surge, and many are waiting for the right moment to re-enter the market.
How long will they wait?
Typically just a few more weeks. January and February bring a substantial inventory rebound.
Whether it's at a family gathering, your company party, or catching up with friends over the holidays, the housing market always finds its way into the conversation.
Here are the top three questions on a lot of people's minds this season, and straightforward answers to help you feel more confident about the market.
Yes, more than you could a year or two ago.
The number of homes for sale has been rising over the past few years. According to data from Realtor.com, there have been more than one million homes on the market for six straight months, something that hasn't happened since 2019 (see graph below):
Thinking about making a move to Bend? You're not alone. Every year, thousands of people from Portland, Seattle, and the Bay Area explore what life might look like in Central Oregon's high desert—drawn by sunshine, mountains, and a lifestyle that feels equal parts active and intentional.
This guide is your honest, year-round look at what living in Bend is really like—season by season, neighborhood by neighborhood, and day to day—so you can decide if Bend fits the way you want to live.
The Big Picture: Why People Choose Bend
Bend's appeal goes far beyond pretty scenery. What truly hooks people is the quality of life—a blend of outdoor recreation, friendly neighborhoods, a slower pace, and the ability to actually enjoy the life you work so hard for.
You'll hear newcomers say things li...