(Photo courtesy of Caldera Springs)
In her more than 11 years working in Central Oregon’s real estate industry, Kristin Long has noticed that people are often drawn to Sunriver for more than just the homes.
“They are investing in a lifestyle centered around outdoor recreation, community connection and the incredible natural surroundings that make Sunriver such a desirable place to live and visit,” Long said.
The managing principal broker for Sunriver Realty and Sunriver Resort, Long shared she has the honor of overseeing Sunriver Realty brokerage operations, supporting and mentoring the brokers, ensuring compliance with Oregon real estate laws and regulations, and helping guide the brokerage’s overall strategic direction.
“What originally drew me to real estate was the opportunity to help people through some of life’s most significant decisions,” Long said. “Real estate is much more than buying and selling property, it is about helping individuals and families achieve personal goals, whether that means finding a primary residence, a vacation retreat, an investment property, or transitioning to a new chapter of life. I enjoy the combination of relationship-building, problem-solving and helping clients and brokers navigate an ever-changing market.”
Kelly Winch is a principal broker and sales manager for Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty’s Sunriver office. She has specialized in Central Oregon real estate for more than 20 years, with a particular focus on Sunriver and the 97707 area.
Winch purchased her first vacation rental property in Sunriver in 1999, sparking a passion for real estate investing that ultimately changed the course of her career. After moving to Sunriver full-time in 2003, where she raised her two daughters, she transitioned into real estate sales while also remodeling and building homes.
Having owned investment and vacation rental properties, Winch said she developed a passion for real estate and helping others achieve their goals whether they are purchasing a primary residence, second home or investment property in Sunriver. “You’re investing in much more than a home — you’re investing in a lifestyle,” Winch said. “Sunriver offers year-round recreation, beautiful natural surroundings, golf, biking, hiking, water activities, and easy access to Bend and Mt. Bachelor. Whether you’re looking for a primary residence, vacation home, or investment property, the lifestyle and sense of community are what make this area so special.
Describing Sunriver as a truly unique community, Long said it offers a year-round lifestyle with something for everyone. “The community appeals to full-time residents, second-home owners, retirees, and those seeking a vacation retreat. Buyers should take the time to understand the unique neighborhoods, homeowner associations, and property uses available throughout the area, as each can offer a distinct ownership experience,” Long said.
Long and Winch were sent the following questions. Here are their answers.
How would you describe the current market?
Long: The Sunriver and greater Central Oregon market has continued to evolve over the past several years. While we are no longer experiencing the rapid pace and historically low inventory conditions seen during the pandemic years, the market remains active and healthy. Today’s market is more balanced. Buyers have more choices and more time to evaluate properties, while sellers who price appropriately and prepare their homes well continue to see strong interest. We are seeing continued demand from buyers seeking the lifestyle that Central Oregon offers, including recreation, outdoor amenities, and a strong sense of community. As always, market conditions can vary significantly by location, price range, and property type, which is why local expertise remains so important.
Winch: The current market is nuanced and can be challenging to define with a single headline. Some segments remain strong, while others are more sensitive to economic uncertainty, interest rates and buyer confidence. Well-priced, well-presented homes continue to attract attention, while properties that are overpriced or require significant updates may take longer to sell. Currently, we have 14 pending homes in Sunriver, ten of them more than $1 million.
How do you calm buyers’ worries about the economy or interest rates?
Winch and Long shared in separate interviews that buyers have shared their concerns about the economy and interest rates. They both said there is no one-size-fits-all answer to calm a person’s worries. Instead, they advise buyers to focus on their personal goals including financial situation, goals, and comfort level. and their timeline rather than trying to time the market.
Winch: Interest rates and economic conditions will always fluctuate. If the home fits their needs, budget and long-term plans, it can still be a great opportunity.
Long: I find that providing accurate market information and helping buyers understand their options can go a long way toward reducing uncertainty. Ultimately, the decision to purchase a home should be based on an individual’s financial situation, goals, and comfort level.
What is the average time a house spends on the market?
Winch and Long shared that the days a home is on the market can fluctuate depending on the time of year and the property’s location, price point, condition and amenities. Winch said homes in Sunriver, homes are currently nearing 100 days on the market, adding whether the property is being marketed as a primary residence, second home, or vacation rental ca determine how long it takes to sell.
Long said in Sunriver, year-to-date median ‘day on market’ for single family residences is 44 days. At this time in 2025 median days on market was 17.
“Rather than focusing solely on an overall average, I encourage consumers to look at current market activity within the specific neighborhood or market segment that most closely matches their property or search criteria. Those statistics often provide a more meaningful picture of what is happening in today’s market,” Long said.
What advice would you give to a buyer? A seller?
Winch: For both buyers and sellers, my biggest piece of advice is to do your best to keep emotions out of the negotiation process. Real estate is often one of the largest financial transactions people make, so emotions naturally come into play. However, approaching decisions with a clear understanding of your goals and relying on facts rather than emotions leads to better outcomes. It’s an important purchase, don’t let emotion, and the little things get in the way.
Long: For buyers, preparation is key. Understanding your goals, financial parameters and preferred lifestyle can help create a more focused and successful search.
For sellers, presentation and pricing remain important factors. Buyers have access to more information than ever before, and first impressions matter. Working with a knowledgeable real estate professional can help sellers understand local market conditions and position their property effectively.
What are some common mistakes sellers make before listing their home?
They shared that the most common mistake made by sellers is delaying necessary maintenance items that could affect a buyer’s perception of the property.
“I understand that major projects like replacing a roof can be expensive, but sellers should understand the condition of their home before putting it on the market. If the roof is nearing the end of its life or the exterior needs staining or painting, obtain bids and understand the costs involved,” Winch said. “This helps us price the property appropriately and reduces surprises during inspections and negotiations. Even smaller items matter. Regular furnace servicing, maintenance records, and evidence that the home has been well cared for can make a positive impression on buyers and could lead to a quicker sale.”
Long said one of the most common mistakes is assuming that all improvements or upgrades will translate directly into market value.
“Sellers sometimes also rely on outdated market information or comparisons that may no longer reflect current conditions,” Long said. “The most successful listings are typically those where sellers take the time to understand today’s market, prepare the home thoughtfully, and work closely with a real estate professional to develop a strategy tailored to the property.”
Both professionals shared that Sunriver’s natural beauty, its amenities, and its proximity to Mt. Bachelor, Bend and Cascade lakes are some of the many attractions will continue to entice buyers to Sunriver.
