Home sales in Central Oregon are picking up, and local realtors say they're doing a brisk business. Sales during the first quarter in 2012 hit a five year high. In Bend, 424 homes have sold since January, compared to 400 in 2011 and 350 in 2010. Realtor Terry Skjersaa with Duke Warner Realty says he's keeping busy.
“Interest rates have stayed very low, so it's attractive for buyers. a lot of potential buyers out there. We have hit the bottom or near the bottom and so people are buying. Homes $300-$400,000 are selling well during the last couple months.” Skjersaa says homes $400,000 and below are selling well, and even some builders are starting to build again because inventory is getting so low.
