by mallisha.barnes@20four7va.net | Jun 26, 2025 | custom home builder
If you’ve been dreaming about building a custom home in Bend, Oregon, one of the first and most important steps is buying the right piece of land. With its stunning views, outdoor lifestyle, and growing real estate market, Bend is an ideal place to put down roots. But buying land isn’t as simple as choosing a lot with a nice view. From zoning laws to utility access, there are several key factors to consider before you make a purchase.
At Select Design & Build, we help clients navigate the land-buying process with ease. Our team brings deep knowledge of Central Oregon’s landscape, building codes, and lifestyle needs to every custom home project. If you’re planning to build in Bend, here’s what you should know before you buy land.
1. Location Matters More Than You Think
Not all land in Bend is created equal. While some areas are closer to town, schools, and amenities, others offer more space, privacy, or mountain views. Think about how your location will impact your day-to-day life. Do you want to be close to biking trails or have quick access to downtown? Are you looking for a quiet retreat or a neighborhood with families and kids?
2. Understand Zoning and Land Use Regulations
Before buying land, it’s essential to check the zoning. Zoning laws dictate what you can build, how big it can be, and what your future neighbors might be allowed to do. A piece of land may seem perfect, but if it’s zoned agricultural or commercial, it may not allow residential construction.
Also, consider building restrictions or CC&Rs (covenants, conditions, and restrictions) that come with certain developments. These can affect everything from your home’s design to the types of materials you can use.
3. Make Sure the Lot is Buildable
Just because land is for sale doesn’t mean it’s ready to build on. Some lots may require significant grading, tree removal, or septic installation before construction can begin. A thorough site evaluation will help you determine what’s possible.
Things to check:
- Soil quality and drainage
- Slope and elevation
- Setbacks and easements
- Environmental protections (wetlands, wildlife zones, etc.)
Pro tip: At Select Design & Build, we assist clients with site evaluations before they commit to a purchase. This saves time, money, and future headaches.
4. Check for Utility Access
Before you fall in love with a lot, find out if it has access to basic utilities. Water, sewer, electricity, and internet access are not always guaranteed, especially for rural or undeveloped land in Central Oregon.
In some cases, you may need to install a well or septic system. Bringing in utilities can add significant costs to your project, so it’s important to factor that into your budget.
5. Think Long-Term: Resale, Views, and Value
While it’s exciting to plan a custom home that suits your lifestyle now, it’s wise to also think ahead. Does the land offer long-term value? Will surrounding development change your views or privacy? Could your home appeal to future buyers if you ever decide to sell?
Choosing land with good resale potential adds peace of mind and future flexibility.
6. Work With Local Experts
Buying land for a custom home isn’t something you have to do alone. Partnering with a trusted builder early in the process gives you an edge. At Select Design & Build, we offer expert guidance every step of the way from helping you find and evaluate land to designing and building your dream home.
Our local knowledge and 8-step building process are designed to take the stress out of custom homebuilding, so you can focus on what matters most, creating a home that reflects your lifestyle, needs, and vision.
Buying land in Bend for a custom home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with big decisions. By considering zoning, buildability, utility access, and long-term goals, you can choose a lot that supports your dream home today and for years to come.
Ready to Build Your Dream Home?
If you’re thinking about building a home in Bend, let Select Design & Build be your guide. We specialize in helping Central Oregon homeowners find the perfect land and create custom homes with lasting value, style, and functionality.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward building the home you’ve always wanted the smart way.
by mallisha.barnes@20four7va.net | Jun 26, 2025 | custom home builder
Living in Central Oregon offers mountain views, high desert climate, and year-round outdoor adventures, this region attracts homeowners who want more than just a house.. At Select Design & Build, we specialize in creating custom homes that reflect the pace, priorities, and beauty of life in Bend and the surrounding areas.
What Makes Central Oregon Living Unique?
Central Oregon’s natural setting encourages an active, outdoor lifestyle. Whether you spend your weekends hiking, skiing, paddleboarding, or biking, your home should support these activities. The region’s climate is another factor to consider. With cold, snowy winters and dry, sunny summers, designing a home here means thinking ahead about insulation, sun exposure, and energy efficiency.
Add to that the increasing demand for flexible living spaces and sustainability, and it becomes clear that a cookie-cutter floor plan just won’t cut it. A thoughtfully designed home makes the most of every square foot while helping you stay comfortable, efficient, and connected to the outdoors.
Smart Design Tips for Central Oregon Homes
At Select Design & Build, we guide our clients through an eight-step custom home building process that ensures your space works with your lifestyle and the environment. Here are a few design tips we often recommend when planning a Central Oregon home:
1. Embrace Indoor-Outdoor Living
Homes in this region benefit from layouts that blend indoor comfort with outdoor living. Covered patios, folding glass doors, and outdoor kitchens help you enjoy the fresh air year-round. Consider heated patios or fire pits to extend your outdoor season well into the cooler months.
2. Choose Materials That Stand Up to the Climate
Durable, low-maintenance materials are a must. Metal roofing, fiber cement siding, and energy-efficient windows are all great choices for handling Bend’s temperature swings and dry summers. We also recommend quality insulation and energy-smart HVAC systems to keep your home efficient no matter the season.
3. Build in Room for Gear and Hobbies
With so many outdoor activities nearby, having storage for your gear is essential. Mudrooms with built-in benches, ski storage, and extra garage space make life easier and more organized. Whether you need a spot to wax your skis, store your mountain bike, or dry out your paddleboard gear, we can help design those practical touches.
4. Opt for an Open Floor Plan with Cozy Touches
Open floor plans are popular for a reason, they make entertaining easy and keep families connected. But that doesn’t mean your home has to feel cold or cavernous. Warm wood finishes, stone fireplaces, and natural textures help create a cozy, grounded feel even in a large space.
5. Think Long-Term with Energy Efficiency
With over 300 days of sun per year, solar energy is a smart investment in Central Oregon. Energy-efficient appliances, smart thermostats, and strategically placed windows can also help reduce your monthly bills and environmental impact. We work with you to choose green building options that suit your goals and budget.
Tailored to Fit Your Lifestyle
The beauty of working with Select Design & Build is the personal attention you receive from start to finish. Whether you’re building a full-time residence, a vacation home, or a multi-unit investment property, we’ll help you design a space that fits your lifestyle.
Our team helps with everything from land assessment and permitting to finish selections and project management. With decades of experience in custom building across Central Oregon, we know what works here and what doesn’t. We don’t just build houses. We build homes you’ll love for years to come.
Ready to Build Your Central Oregon Dream Home?
If you’re thinking about designing a home in Bend or the surrounding areas, now is a great time to start the conversation. At Select Design & Build, we make the process clear, creative, and enjoyable.
Let’s bring your vision to life on time, on budget, and with the highest quality craftsmanship. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help create a home that fits your Central Oregon lifestyle perfectly.
by mallisha.barnes@20four7va.net | Jun 26, 2025 | custom home builder
When it comes to building a custom home in Bend, one of the best ways to ensure long-term sustainability and energy efficiency is by choosing eco-friendly building materials. With the high desert climate, featuring cold winters and warm, sunny summers, selecting the right materials is essential for comfort, durability, and reducing your environmental footprint. At Select Design & Build, we specialize in creating homes that are not only beautifully crafted but also environmentally conscious. Below, we’ll dive into some of the best eco-friendly building materials that are perfectly suited for Bend’s climate.
Why Eco-Friendly Materials Matter in Bend
Bend’s climate presents unique challenges and opportunities for construction. The area experiences wide temperature fluctuations, with harsh winters and sunny summers. Choosing the right materials can make a big difference in how efficiently your home performs year-round. Eco-friendly materials help regulate temperature, reduce energy consumption, and improve the overall comfort of your living space.
Sustainable materials also reduce waste and energy consumption during construction and throughout the life of your home. By opting for materials that are locally sourced and have minimal environmental impact, you contribute to the preservation of Bend’s natural beauty and minimize your carbon footprint.
Top Eco-Friendly Building Materials for Bend’s Climate
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Sustainable Wood and Timber
Wood is one of the most versatile and eco-friendly building materials available. Using responsibly sourced timber helps ensure that forests are sustainably managed. In Bend, wood is an ideal material for both structural framing and interior finishes, such as flooring and cabinetry. For extra durability, choose wood that has been treated with non-toxic finishes to protect it from wear and tear while keeping your home environmentally friendly.
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Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs)
When building a home that needs to handle temperature extremes, Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) are a great choice. ICFs combine the thermal efficiency of concrete with the insulation of foam, making them perfect for Bend’s chilly winters and hot summers. Homes built with ICFs are highly energy-efficient and require less energy to heat and cool, which lowers utility bills and reduces environmental impact. ICFs are also fire-resistant and durable, making them a long-lasting option for eco-conscious homeowners.
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Recycled Steel
Steel is an incredibly strong material, and when used in construction, it can last for decades. Recycled steel is a highly sustainable option because it reduces the need for raw materials and energy-intensive mining processes. It’s perfect for framing and structural elements, as well as roofing. In Bend, where snow and wind can cause strain on a home’s structure, steel offers added durability and resistance to harsh weather conditions.
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Cork Flooring
Cork flooring is an excellent eco-friendly material for homes in Bend. Made from the bark of cork oak trees, cork is a renewable and biodegradable material. It provides natural insulation, reducing the amount of energy needed to keep your home comfortable. Cork is also naturally resistant to moisture, making it an ideal option for areas that experience seasonal humidity or temperature changes.
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Bamboo
Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on earth, making it an incredibly renewable resource. It’s stronger than many hardwoods and is perfect for flooring, cabinetry, and other interior finishes. Bamboo is also highly versatile and can be treated to mimic the look of other materials like hardwood or even stone. For homes in Bend, bamboo can help create a stylish yet sustainable interior.
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Solar Panels
While not a building material in the traditional sense, solar panels are an essential eco-friendly addition to any home in Bend. With plenty of sunshine throughout the year, Bend is an ideal place to take advantage of solar energy. Installing solar panels can drastically reduce your reliance on traditional electricity, lower your energy bills, and reduce your carbon footprint. In addition, solar panels can increase the overall value of your home, making it a wise investment for homeowners.
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Green Insulation Materials
Insulation is crucial for maintaining energy efficiency in homes, especially in areas with extreme temperature variations like Bend. Traditional insulation materials like fiberglass can be harmful to both your health and the environment. Opting for greener alternatives such as cellulose, cotton, or spray foam insulation made from renewable resources can help keep your home well-insulated and energy-efficient without harming the environment.
Why Choose Select Design & Build for Your Eco-Friendly Home
At Select Design & Build, we understand the importance of building a home that’s not only beautiful but also kind to the planet. With years of experience and a commitment to quality craftsmanship, our team can help you select the best eco-friendly materials that suit your needs and budget. From sustainable wood to energy-efficient systems, we ensure that every aspect of your home is optimized for both performance and sustainability.
Building an eco-friendly custom home in Bend doesn’t have to be complicated. Our team guides you through every step of the process ensuring that your home is built with materials that promote energy efficiency, reduce waste, and create a comfortable living space for you and your family.
Ready to Build Your Dream Eco-Friendly Home?
If you’re ready to start your journey towards a sustainable custom home in Bend, Select Design & Build is here to help. We specialize in eco-friendly construction and can assist you in making smart, environmentally conscious decisions that will benefit both your family and the planet. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin building your dream home, the sustainable way.
by mallisha.barnes@20four7va.net | Jun 26, 2025 | custom home builder
Buying land in Bend, Oregon, to build a custom home is very exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. As Bend continues to grow in popularity for its stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and high quality of life, more people are choosing to build their dream homes here.
At Select Design & Build, we specialize in creating custom homes that perfectly blend luxury, craftsmanship, and efficiency. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through the entire process, from buying the land to building the home of your dreams.
Here are some expert-backed tips to help you navigate the land-buying process and prepare for building your custom home in Bend:
1. Understand the Local Real Estate Market
Bend has seen a steady increase in property values over the years. Before purchasing land, it’s essential to understand the current market conditions. Research neighborhoods and land prices to make an informed decision. Working with a local real estate agent can help you pinpoint the best areas for your custom home, whether you’re looking for a quiet spot near the Deschutes River or a more suburban location close to downtown.
2. Choose the Right Location
When buying land in Bend, consider the location carefully. Bend offers a variety of landscapes, from the rustic charm of Tumalo to the desirable areas near the Old Mill District. Each neighborhood offers unique benefits depending on your lifestyle and needs. Whether you want easy access to hiking trails or proximity to schools and shopping, selecting the right location will be key in making your custom home investment worthwhile.
3. Consider Zoning and Land Use Restrictions
In Bend, zoning laws and land use restrictions can significantly affect your plans for a custom home. Make sure you understand the specific zoning laws that apply to the land you’re considering. Will you be able to build the type of home you envision? Is the land zoned for residential use? It’s essential to conduct thorough due diligence, including checking if the property is located in a flood zone or has any environmental restrictions.
At Select Design & Build, we guide our clients through the permitting and zoning evaluation process to ensure your land is suitable for your project.
4. Evaluate the Land’s Infrastructure and Utilities
Before purchasing land, assess the infrastructure in place, including access to utilities like water, electricity, and sewage systems. Some properties in Bend may require the installation of a well, septic system, or other utilities, which can add to the cost of building your custom home. A thorough land inspection will help determine whether the site is ready for development or if additional investments will be necessary.
5. Assess the Topography and Soil Quality
The topography of the land is another critical factor when building a custom home. Ensure the property is not prone to flooding or other environmental concerns. Additionally, the soil quality will affect foundation work and drainage, so it’s wise to have the land tested for soil stability. If the land has poor soil conditions, this could add unexpected costs to the building process.
6. Work with Experienced Home Builders
Partnering with an experienced home builder is one of the most important decisions you can make when buying land for a custom home in Bend. At Select Design & Build, we specialize in new construction and custom home building, ensuring that every detail is tailored to your vision. Our 8-step process includes everything from site evaluations and floor plan selection to the final walkthrough before closing. We take pride in making the construction process as smooth and efficient as possible, so you can focus on enjoying your new home.
7. Secure Financing for Your Land and Construction
Once you’ve selected the perfect plot of land, securing financing for both the land purchase and the construction process is crucial. In Bend, land loans may require a larger down payment or higher interest rates, so be sure to discuss financing options with your lender. Many people also choose to finance the land purchase and home construction together through a construction loan, which can streamline the process.
8. Create a Realistic Budget
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of building your dream home, but creating a realistic budget is essential. Make sure to account for the cost of land, permits, utility installation, landscaping, and other unexpected expenses. At Select Design & Build, we work closely with you to stay on budget, ensuring that you can create the custom home of your dreams without financial stress.
9. Choose the Right Home Design for Your Land
Your land will play a significant role in determining the type of custom home you can build. Whether you have a spacious lot with plenty of room for outdoor living or a smaller plot in a more urban area, we can design a home that maximizes your space and complements the surrounding landscape. Our team specializes in custom designs that fit seamlessly into Bend’s diverse environments, allowing you to make the most of your property.
10. Take Advantage of Bend’s Natural Beauty
One of the greatest advantages of building a custom home in Bend is the stunning natural beauty that surrounds the area. Consider designing your home with large windows to capture breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains or the Deschutes River. At Select Design & Build, we integrate thoughtful design elements that embrace Bend’s unique landscapes, creating homes that feel connected to nature.
Ready to Build Your Custom Home in Bend?
Buying land and building a custom home in Bend can be an exciting, yet a challenging process. By partnering with Select Design & Build, you’ll have a dedicated team of experts guiding you through every step, from land purchase to construction and beyond. Our team is committed to creating homes that reflect your vision, budget, and lifestyle.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can bring your dream home to life in Bend, Oregon. Let’s make your vision a reality.
