BEND, OR for 50+ single woman biomed consultant? (Portland: to rent, townhomes)

[Shosh]

Returning to Oregon after a several year absense, I'm looking for a place to come home to / permanent address between projects or from which to work remotely. I'm especially looking for information and opinions about neighborhoods, living arrangements, community and activities in Bend, that my lifestyle might fit.

I'm 50+, single at this point, and my kids are grown. I'm physically active in the sense that I'd like to be near people who might enjoy an easygoing 30 mi bike ride (~10-18 mph), a 4-8 mile day hike, or track/off track XC skiing.

It would be especially nice to have neighbors with similar academic / career interests. While I would consider my peers MDs, JDs, PhDs, CEOs, VPs, like many women my career got a late start and my finances don't necessarily put me in those neighborhoods. Also, I don't think I'd want the isolation and upkeep of a large property.

Consulting projects can take me out of the area for weeks to months at a time; alternatively, sometimes I can work remotely from home. Generally I work in the biomedical industry, but I'd take on an environmental project for an opportunity to stay in the area.

It would be nice to be near friendly neighbors with whom I could take a morning or evening walk. And, having coffee/dining within walking distance would be great.

Probably I'd want to rent first, but would consider buying. I've looked at some active adult living communities, and they don't fit my lifestyle. Plus, I enjoy the sounds of diversity, kids playing.

Although I've been out of Oregon for several years, in the past I lived in Portland, and have spent time in and around Bend, and also have been through Bend several times in the last several months and have some sense of the current environment. I'm interested in any and all ideas and opinions.

Thanks.

[Bendite]

You might enjoy living in Northwest Crossing on the west side of town. It's a planned community with houses, duplexes and townhomes. Some of the houses are smaller cottages that would be just right for a single person. Northwest Crossing isn't the least expensive part of Bend by any stretch, but it is more affordable with the downturn in the housing market than it once was. There is an area with small shops, including a wine bar, a deli/grocery, a couple of restaurants, and a place to drink coffee and have a pastry. There's a small park and an elementary school in the neighborhood, so there are people of all ages who live there. It is designed to be very walkable, friendly and safe.

[Shosh]

Thanks Bendite for the thoughtful response. I will take a drive through Northwest Crossing.

[minorbrew]

Shosh, I agree with Bendite that Northwest Crossing might be a pretty close fit to what you are looking for. Renting first is certainly not a bad idea, but if you are in a position to buy a place the housing prices are very favorable at this time and interest rates are still very low.
If you find that you need a good realtor, I know an excellent realtor who's been in Bend for 14 years. If you would like his contact information send me a direct mail on this forum.
Best Wishes on your future plans,
minorbrew