Bend is an expensive place to buy a home. Part of the reason is that it offers a combination many people are looking for: mountains, sunshine, clean water, and easy access to the outdoors.
But why is Bend's west side often even more expensive?
One reason is simple: scarcity.
Look at a map. Bend can continue growing in several directions, but westward growth is limited by the Deschutes National Forest and Tumalo Creek.
At the same time, many buyers want to be on the west side, closer to the Cascades, trails, mountain biking, skiing and other outdoor recreation.
Northwest Crossing and Discovery West sit next to each other on Bend's west side. So what's the difference?
Northwest Crossing is established. Restaurants and shops are already right there, and many of its homes are around 20 years old, although some are newer. You'll find beautifully renovated homes as well as others where buyers may want to make some changes. Garage entries are from the back of the houses, and there's no HOA.
Discovery West is newer. The homes tend to be larger, more expensive and closer together. Many are lovely modern homes with clean lines, three-car garages and, in some cases, taller garage bays for vans. Because the community is new, most of the trees are still young....
Tetherow and Broken Top are both golf communities on Bend's west side, they're close to each other, and portions of both are gated.
So what's the difference?
The short answer: age, architecture, landscaping, and atmosphere.
Tetherow is newer, with contemporary architecture and a very distinct high desert feel. There are fewer trees, and the landscaping reflects the dry Central Oregon environment. It also has more of a resort atmosphere, with golf, restaurants, lodging, and a livelier social scene.
If you're considering a move to Bend's west side, you've probably come across two names: Northwest Crossing and Talline.
While they're right next to each other, they offer very different experiences. Neither is inherently "better." The right choice depends on what you're looking for in a neighborhood and in your daily life.
Here are some of the biggest differences.
Northwest Crossing is one of Bend's most established master planned communities. Mature trees, established landscaping, and years of thoughtful growth give it...
One of the questions I hear from buyers is, "Why are homes in Northwest Crossing consistently in demand?"
There isn't one answer. Instead, there are several reasons that help explain why this neighborhood continues to attract buyers year after year.
Walkability
Northwest Crossing was designed so that many everyday destinations are within easy reach. Restaurants, coffee shops, parks, schools, and trails are woven into the neighborhood, making daily life more convenient and enjoyable.
A Mature Neighborhood
Trees have grown, landscaping has filled in, and the neighborhood feels established. That sense of permanence is difficult to recreate in a brand new development.
A Strong Identity
Buyers...