Markets remain regional, as expected

Implications: Just released statistics from the Office of Federal Housing Oversight show that, for all of 2006, price changes ranked from a low of (5.48%) to a high of 21.39% (Bend's appreciation rate). 

The dynamics of buyer needs is changing.

Demographics in the U.S. continue to change, as a function of changes in our business base, as well as changes in family and individual lifestyle needs.

Analysis: First of all, contrary to what most realtors would have people believe, we are still 12-18 months from any "turnaround", but it is obvious that some areas are going to have healthy appreciation rates, while others stay negative.  Many dynamics, including the Internet, are shaping future growth models.  Included in these is the age-old issues (I'm tired of winter's grey skies, and all that snow), to newer issues of how do I get away from traffic, noise, pollution and crime, and find a bit of peace and community somewhere.

Where can you find a sophisticated city, with lakes, mountains, rivers, 30 golf courses (including a Jack Nicholas signature course), no traffic, and friendly faces?  Where there is less rain than in Los Angeles, and 300 sunny days a year?  The answer used to be Phoenix, but now it is places like Bend. You can call me, or check out www.ken-egan.com to see pictures and the like.  I found out firsthand why Bend is #1.