Thinking about buying a home in Bend, Redmond, or anywhere in Central Oregon this spring? Before you start touring homes, make sure you’re not falling into one of these common homebuyer traps.
Spring is one of the busiest—and most competitive—times to buy a home in Central Oregon. From Bend to Redmond to La Pine, the warmer weather brings more listings and more buyers into the market. While it’s an exciting time to search for a new home, it’s also easy to make critical missteps that can cost you time, money, and missed opportunities.
As local real estate agents who help buyers relocate to Central Oregon every season, we’ve seen it all—and we want to help you avoid the most common pitfalls.
1. Not Getting Pre-Approved Before House Hunting
Why it’s a mistake:
In today’s Central Oregon real estate market, properties can move fast. If you’re not pre-approved, sellers (and other real estate professionals) will never take your interest seriously. After all, how would you know if you qualify for a home without asking the right questions?
How to fix it:
Before attempting to book showings or attend open houses, talk to a local mortgage lender and get pre-approved. This shows sellers you’re a serious buyer—and gives you a clear budget to work within. Not sure what lender to speak to? Connect with us below, and we’d be happy to introduce you to some lenders in our community.
🔎 Search Tip: As a Buyers look for “how to get pre-approved in Bend Oregon”—Talk to a lender who understands the local market!
2. Underestimating the Spring Buyer Competition
Why it’s a mistake:
Buyers often assume they have time to think it over. In reality, Central Oregon homes—especially in places like Northwest Crossing or Southeast Bend—can receive multiple offers in a single weekend. This is because the region is so popular! Spring is notoriously on of the busier seasons for house shopping in Central Oregon. As such, you should expect more competition, higher prices, and less dilly-dallying!
How to fix it:
Work with a local agent who can keep you updated in real time. The stronger your real estate team is in communication, time management, and market interpretation the better! Be ready to act fast when a property checks your boxes.
3. Chasing the “Perfect” Home Instead of a Great One
Why it’s a mistake:
If you’re holding out for the perfect kitchen, the perfect backyard, and the perfect street… you might miss out on fantastic homes that meet 90% of your goals. This might feel counterproductive, but it’s rare to find a home that fits all of the checkboxes—not to mention at the exact time you begin shopping.
How to fix it:
Make a list of your top priorities—then stay flexible. Remember: location and layout are hard to change, but paint and fixtures are easy. Home buyers in Central Oregon sometimes forget that some of their home preferences can be added after closing with some simple renovations. Working with a well-connected real estate team can arm you with tools and associations when the time comes to put on some creativity glasses!
4. Not Understanding Neighborhood Differences
Why it’s a mistake:
Central Oregon is more diverse than people think. Whether you’re relocating to Bend or considering homes in Redmond, La pine, Prineville, or beyond each neighborhood and town offers a different lifestyle, price point, and commute.
How to fix it:
Talk with a local real estate expert who understand the neuances of each area. We can help you compare neighborhoods like Summit West vs. Boyd Acres or Old Mill vs. NE Bend, so you find the area that fits your needs.
🌲 Planning a Move to Central Oregon? Don’t navigate it alone—grab our free Central Oregon Relocation Guide! It’s packed with insider tips on neighborhoods, market trends, schools, outdoor activities, and what to expect in each season.
5. Trying to Navigate the Market Alone
Why it’s a mistake:
Browsing Zillow or Redfin is a great start—but it’s not a strategy. Without a local agent, you may miss pre-market listings, overlook red flags, or struggle with reading between the lines. Listing pictures are worth a-thousand words, but sometimes those words are a little confusing!
How to fix it:
Work a buyer’s agent who lives and works in Central Oregon. This will help postion you and your loved ones for success! We know the market inside and out—and we’re here to advocate for your goals every step of the way.
