🍂 Fall 2025 Market Report

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Right now, our real estate market feels a little upside down compared to a few years ago. And it has everyone (especially agents) talking. Homes are staying on the market longer than we’ve been used to, and we’re seeing more and more price reductions as sellers adjust to today’s conditions. Buyers are feeling cautious—many are waiting to see what happens with the economy and interest rates. But there has been good news this past week with the interest rates down a bit. They are hesitant to jump in unless the price makes sense for what the house will cost them monthly with taxes and insurance included (always rising) and the home's condition. Interest rates themselves have been bouncing around, and while they’re lower than their peak last year, they’re still higher than the “historic lows” we all remember from a few years ago. This tug-of-war between buyers wanting better affordability and sellers trying to hold onto their value is what’s creating the current market. Interestingly,  it seems that the 1 million plus market is selling better than the lesser values in Central Oregon.  

What’s Happening in the Central Oregon Housing Market?

"August numbers show Central Oregon’s real estate market continuing to level out. Inventory is holding or climbing in most areas — Bend sits at 5.7 months, Sisters at 6.1, and both La Pine and Prineville are near 8 months. Homes are also taking longer to sell, giving buyers a bit more breathing room and leverage. Prices remain strong in some markets. Bend’s median is up to $768,825, and while Sisters dipped from July’s peak, it’s still holding above $800,000. Overall, the landscape feels more balanced. Sellers who price strategically and prep well are still moving properties. We’re in a moment that rewards preparation, patience, and staying sharp.”  -Ryan Buccola, Broker/Owner REMAX Key Properties

 

From Brian Buffini Mid Year Update:

Market Reality: Far from crashing, the housing market is rebalancing to 2019 levels—a healthier state than many headlines suggest 

Mortgage Rates Forecast: Expected to hover between 6.25% and 6.5% for the remainder of 2025

Inventory is easing, but not low enough to reinvigorate a seller’s market—especially with price corrections in play.

US Summary Snapshot

Regional Variation

A split market—Midwest/Northeast gaining, South/West seeing declines.

Buyer Advantage

Slower sales, rising inventory, more price reductions—buyers have more leverage.

Mortgage Rates

Rates hovering around 6.5–6.6%, slowly easing but still limiting affordability.

Is an Estate Sale Right for You?

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Downsizing from a home filled with a lifetime collection of furnishings and collectibles has become increasingly challenging in today's evolving market for second-hand goods. Traditional estate sales, once the go-to method for liquidating household items, are now facing significant obstacles due to market saturation and shifting generational preferences. Baby Boomers, who are the primary sellers, find that their cherished items hold less appeal for younger generations, such as Gen Xers and Millennials, who prioritize minimalism and contemporary designs over vintage and traditional pieces.  Additionally, the rise of online marketplaces and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have further transformed how estate sales are conducted, necessitating innovative approaches to effectively manage and sell pre-owned goods in this saturated market​.

Key factors to consider when you are setting expectations on selling an estate:

  1. Market Saturation: There's an excess of second-hand household items, making it difficult to sell traditional estate sale wares. Baby Boomers, who are downsizing, are adding to this surplus, while younger generations are less interested in accumulating traditional household items.

  2. Generational Shifts: Baby Boomers value their possessions for their memories and traditions, Gen Xers prefer contemporary items, and Millennials prioritize experiences over belongings and prefer minimalism.

  3. Online Marketplaces: The rise of online platforms such as eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and specialized resale sites like Poshmark and ThreadUp has transformed how estate sales are conducted. These platforms provide broader reach and pricing transparency but also increase competition.  

  4. Pandemic Impact: COVID-19 has accelerated the shift towards online auctions and estate liquidation services, which often involve photographing items and conducting sales over weeks rather than days. This approach can sell more items but may not always achieve the best prices for high-end goods.

  5. Estate Sale Options: While traditional in-home estate sales still exist, many companies are adopting hybrid models, offering both in-person and online sales. This adaptation helps meet safety concerns and changing buyer behaviors.

When liquidating a household, there are several options to consider, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are some of the primary methods:

Traditional Estate Sales: Conducted in-person over a weekend, these sales are ideal for quickly liquidating a large number of items. Professional estate sale companies can handle pricing, advertising, and selling, but may charge a significant commission​

Online Auctions: Services like eBay, Craigslist, and specialized auction sites can reach a broader audience and provide more transparency in pricing. Items are photographed, listed, and sold over a period of weeks, with buyers picking up their purchases at a later date. This method is increasingly popular, especially due to COVID-19 concerns​ 

Consignment Shops: These shops sell items on behalf of the owner and take a percentage of the sale price. This can be a good option for high-value items but may take longer to sell​. 

Donation: Donating items to charities or non-profits can provide tax benefits and is an excellent way to ensure items are reused. Organizations like Goodwill, Salvation Army, and local shelters often accept household goods.​ 

Junk Removal Services: For items that cannot be sold or donated, junk removal services can efficiently clear out a house. These companies offer comprehensive removal and disposal services.​ They are able to donate the usable items they pick up.

Yard Sales: A more DIY approach, yard sales can help liquidate a variety of items but require significant effort in organizing, pricing, and advertising.​ 

Specialty Resale: For unique or valuable items, consider specialty resale markets. For example, vintage clothing can be sold on platforms like Poshmark, while antique furniture might do well on Chairish or 1stDibs.​  

By evaluating these options and possibly combining several methods, individuals can effectively manage the downsizing process and maximize returns on their household items.

See these articles for more helpful information:

https://www.bobvila.com/articles/estate-sale-company/

https://nesa-usa.com/how-much-to-pay

https://hometransitionpros.com/estate-sale-help/

I have a list of local (Central Oregon) businesses for you to contact for help with your estate needs. Just contact me!