Deschutes County is experiencing a significant surge in its real estate market, as highlighted during the Board of Commissioners meeting on May 21, 2025. The Bend single-family home market reached a record median sales price of $832,000 in April, a notable increase from $748,000 in March. This spike is accompanied by a robust sales volume, with 146 homes sold in April, 34% of which were priced above a million dollars, indicating a strong demand for high-end properties.

Despite the rising prices, the county is facing a growing inventory of homes, with a four-month supply currently listed for sale. However, properties are selling quickly, with an average listing period of just 23 days for sold homes. This dynamic raises questions about future pricing trends as inventory levels continue to build.

In addition to Bend's market, Redmond reported a stable median price of $540,000 in April, up from $523,000 in March, with building permits increasing from 15 to 25. This growth reflects the area's economic activity, further bolstered by Amazon's recent announcement of a new facility in Redmond, which is expected to stimulate local commercial development.

Other areas in Deschutes County also showed varied market conditions. Sisters had a median sales price of $771,000, Sunriver reached $810,000, and La Pine reported a lower median price of $442,000. The discussion highlighted potential investment opportunities in La Pine, particularly for one-acre properties with older manufactured homes, suggesting a market ripe for renovation and development.

The meeting also touched on the county's financial health, with the treasurer reporting a portfolio balance of $342.6 million, reflecting a $1.4 million increase from March. Net investment earnings for April were reported at $1.07 million, indicating a positive trend compared to the previous year.

As Deschutes County navigates these economic shifts, the focus remains on leveraging industrial growth, particularly in Redmond and La Pine, where shovel-ready land is available for development. The implications of these discussions are significant for residents and investors alike, as the county continues to evolve in response to market demands and opportunities.