Is Now a Good Time to Sell Your Home in Bend, Oregon? Here's What the 2026 Market Is Telling Us

The question I get more than any other right now is: "Should I sell now, or wait?"

As a Bend-based realtor with 15 years of experience in Central Oregon, I'm going to give you a straight answer — no fluff, no hype.

THE BEND MARKET RIGHT NOW

The Bend real estate market in early 2026 has entered what experts are calling a "normalization" phase. The median home price is sitting around $679,000–$731,000, and homes are taking roughly 64–92 days to sell. We're approaching a 4-month supply of inventory — which is actually a healthy, balanced market.

What does that mean for you as a seller? It means the panic-buying frenzy is over, but demand is still strong. Homes are still selling at approximately 98–99% of asking price. Sellers who price right and present their homes well are still winning.

WHY SPRING 2026 IS A SMART TIME TO LIST

Bend homeowners typically wait out the winter months, which means inventory is lower right now — and that's your advantage. Fewer competing listings means more eyes on your home. As we move into spring, buyer activity traditionally surges in Central Oregon. Listing now or in the next 30–60 days positions you ahead of that wave.

Additionally, mortgage rates have stabilized in the low-to-mid 6% range, which has brought buyers who were sitting on the sidelines back into the market. More active buyers means more opportunity for sellers.

THE CENTRAL OREGON ADVANTAGE

Bend continues to attract buyers relocating from Portland, Seattle, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Remote work flexibility means lifestyle-driven purchases are still very much happening — and Bend's outdoor recreation, quality of life, and relatively lower cost compared to coastal California cities keeps it on everyone's radar.

WHAT SMART SELLERS ARE DOING DIFFERENTLY IN 2026

The sellers who are winning right now are doing three things:

1. Pricing accurately from day one. Overpriced homes are sitting. Well-priced homes are moving.
2. Presenting the home at its absolute best. First impressions — both online and in person — matter more than ever in a normalized market.
3. Working with an experienced local agent who knows the micro-markets — because Bend, Redmond, Prineville, and Sunriver all behave differently right now.

MY UNIQUE ADVANTAGE FOR SELLERS

As both a licensed realtor and a general contractor, I offer something most agents can't — I can help you identify and address the things that could cost you money at closing before we list. Whether it's a fresh coat of paint, updated fixtures, or something more substantial, having a contractor in your corner from day one can mean thousands more in your pocket at the end.

READY TO FIND OUT WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH?

The best first step is a free, no-obligation home valuation. I'll give you an honest assessment of your home's value in today's market and a clear plan to maximize your sale.

Get Your Free Home Valuation at EliteOregonHomes.com/evaluation

Erika Stratton | Elite Oregon Homes | REAL Broker LLC (541) 280-8388 | erika@eliteoregonhomes.com | www.eliteoregonhomes.com