Each Tuesday morning we brokers have the opportunity to tour MLS listings in Bend, OR, which invariably yields interesting finds and equally interesting homes to stay away from!
This "sneak peek" helps me guide you to desireable homes you may not have noticed in your searches or mine, and sometimes I have seen a home in which you may have an interest that is undesireable for reasons such as location near the railroad or a busy street or interiors or exteriors that need major work. Some clients are looking for just that so they can improve the property for investment or their primary residence -- or both -- and some don't want to inherit a "science project." See my blog on the FHA 203(k) program for fixers.
This week I saw Bend, OR, homes for sale that have value or could have at an adjusted price and I saw in the category of Central Oregon Ranches and Farms one property that is lovely and all set up for horses, llamas or your favorite critter to graze in your pasture.
In the category of potential value were two homes on about 3/4 of an acre. Both are single level, and both have lovely gardens. The prices are $225,000 and $258,000. The latter has potential for the addition of additional living units. The former probably should sell for about $200,000.
In the vein of NOT a good value were two homes that were in poor shape (one was downright scary), near busy roads and only one bathroom. One was priced at $110,000 and was about $50,000 overpriced at that! It was, however, on a large 1/2 acre lot. The other was near Wilsom, a busy street, and priced at $159,900. Definitely way too high.
As far as farms and ranches, there were two homes on about 10 acres priced in the high $600,000 range that are as different as night and day. The first (the LESS expensive of the two!) is an exquisite single-level home in an idyllic setting with an expansive great room with vaulted ceilings, Cascade views, lovely spaces for yoga, office, and family space plus a beautiful master suite with two executive walk-in closets. In addition, the main home has a 3-car garage, and the outbuilding has another garage large enough for a motor home and a shop plus an attached 3-stall barn. Pastures are set up for grazing, An expansive back deck of Trex is perfect to take in the mountain views and watch your grazing horses.
And the second of these two ranches has a home that has small, cramped spaces, two levels, tiny kitchen, a laundry room that is a long and narrow walk-in closet, wood accents that make the home feel dark and not cozy and no views. A guest home is cute, but it is the only outbuilding. No horse set-up. Almost the same price.
Need help sorting out the good buys from the junk in our market? I'd love to help! Give me a call or drop me an email at Lynne@LynneConnelley.com.