Iron Mountain is Known for its Wildflowers

We have hiked Iron Mountain yearly since 2020, with each experience a little different. For those not familiar with Iron Mountain, it is a unique "Special Interest Area" in that it provides for over 300 species of wildflowers in various meadow, forested, and rocky environments. Each year the experience has been different, although our hike is typically done during the same few weeks in late June or early July. This year, our hike on July 1, 2023, was warm and we met many other very friendly people and families enjoying the same experience. The hike itself can be challenging and if hikers follow the route we do (which includes the Cone Peak Trail and portions of the Santiam Wagon Trail) the trek will amount to over 1900 feet of elevation gain and a total of 7 miles. We suggest getting an early start, take your camera, and don't rush the experience of seeing the lovely flowers and stunning mountain views from the summit.

To access the trailhead, travel west from Bend over Santiam Pass to the junction with Hwy 126. Take this until Hwy 20 (towards Sweet Home and Albany) branch off. Travel on Hwy 20 several miles until you reach Tombstone Pass. Park in the parking lot there (bring your forest pass) and start the Cone Peak Trail at this location.

Bend Premier Real Estate is Pleased to Welcome Drue Ripp

Drue Ripp is a versatile and experienced real estate professional who understands the diverse needs of clients, whether they are in the process of growing their family or looking to downsize their home. With over 35 years of residency in Bend, Drue possesses a deep understanding of the local community, its amenities, and the real estate market.

As a devoted mother of three daughters, Drue has personal experience in finding a home that accommodates a growing family. She recognizes the importance of space, proximity to schools, and a family-friendly environment. Drue can offer valuable insights into the local school system, different neighborhoods suitable for families, and available amenities.

Additionally, Drue empathizes with clients who are looking to downsize their home. As her children have grown and she understands the desire for a more manageable living space without compromising comfort or life...

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Paulina Peak in Newberry Crater Provides Great Views

We have hiked Paulina Peak a number of times over several years, but haven't had the opportunity to do so this year until last Saturday, June 10, 2023. After a long winter with a lot of snowfall later in the season, access to higher elevations has been limited. However, the road to Paulina Peak provided us who hiked or mountain biked a chance to climb to almost 8000 feet and experience the beautiful views available from the top. 

The road to Paulina Peak climbs 1600 feet over 3.75 miles, slightly longer than the trail, but easier to travel on, especially with snow on the trail and no motorized vehicles allowed to drive the road yet. While people were entering Newberry Volcanic National Monument and driving to Paulina and Eastlake, we saw no other hikers on the road to the Peak while we were there. Rather, only one mountain biker passed us during our hike and we chatted for a bit at the viewpoint at the top before he headed down. All in all, it was a wonderful day for a great hike in Central Oregon.

What's in the June 2023 Bend Premier Real Estate Newsletter?

• May Bend Home Sales Remain Mixed
• Watermelon Shrub
• Real Estate is Still Considered the Best Long Term Investment
• Tumalo Mountain June 2023
• Moving Now Can Give Your Home its Day in the Sun

 Bend Single Family Home Sales Figures Remain Mixed

The May 2023 Bend real estate sales have been published and reflect a market in transition. Inventory levels are growing, but a strong seller's market remains. High mortgage interest rates continue to impact buyer's purchasing power and while average home prices are down slightly, they are not at a level that would significantly affect most Bend home buyers. As we enter our summer peak selling season, the question on how mortgage rates and inventory levels will reflect in 2023 home sales will be answered.

When May 2023 Bend single family home sales on less than an acre are compared with those from May of 2022, the following changes can be noted:

• Average sales price down 3.1% to $861,432
• Median sales price up .8% to $746,250
• New listings down 26.7% to 222
• Homes for sale down 21.1% to 265
• Pending sales down 21.8% to 172

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