Christmas has always been my favorite holiday.  Maybe that is because my ties to it started way before I grew out my white beard, it started even before I was born!Both my parents were half Norwegian, therefore, so am I.  Did you know that Santa Claus is called “Julenisse” in Norway. Like Santa Claus, the Norwegian Julenisse is believed to be based on legends about Saint Nicholas, a bishop who lived in what is now Turkey around the 3rd century.Also before I was born (even before my parents met) my father was a silent partner in Operation Santa Claus in Redmond, Oregon. Here is a 1966 Sports Illustrated article about it:  https://vault.si.com/vault/1966/12/12/reindeer-find-a-santa-claus Then, when I got married we got our first dog. It was a purebred Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie).  It's na... 12/01/2024

Auroras Light Up North Idaho: October 8, 2024On the night of October 8, 2024, residents of North Idaho were treated to a brief display of natural beauty as the auroras danced across the night sky. This spectacular phenomenon captivated onlookers with vibrant colors and swirling patterns that illuminated the dark landscape, creating a scene that will be remembered for years to come.What Causes the Auroras?Auroras, commonly referred to as the Northern Lights in the northern hemisphere, are caused by solar winds colliding with the Earth’s magnetic field. During periods of high solar activity, charged particles from the sun interact with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, resulting in a stunning light show. These interactions produce vivid colors—greens, pinks, purples, and reds—that can stre... 10/08/2024

I have the need of a great home inspector in the Boise ID area.We have 203k projects backing up and need a good home inspector or contractor to step up and become a 203k consultant. If you know of a good home inspector or contractor looking to increase their business, please provide their contact information or ask them to call me. 09/11/2024

If you haven't found the right home in the Boise area, let's build one for you.  Even though I have this home listed on a six+ acre Idaho lot near BLM land in Middleton, we would be glad to build it (or a different model) for you!We have this home all priced out and ready to build or you can customize it.  Do you not want/need the extra boat bay, we can take it off to save money.  If price isn't as critical, maybe we add an in-law suite or a room for your interactive golf screen.  This is the floor plan currently:Fortunately, this home is current built and for sale in another community so you can actually touch it and see the level of detail that went into the construction before you decide to build.  If it is still available, you can just buy the existing home. Here is a 3D Interactive... 08/14/2024

As April showers gracefully give way to May's radiant sunshine, North Idaho transforms into a realm of awe-inspiring beauty and boundless adventure. From the majestic peaks of the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Pend Oreille, this picturesque region becomes a playground for nature enthusiasts and wanderers alike. Welcome to Miraculous May in North Idaho, where every moment is an invitation to explore, discover, and immerse yourself in the wonders of the great outdoors.Blooming WildernessMay in North Idaho marks the awakening of nature from its winter slumber. The forests burst into life as wildflowers carpet the meadows with vibrant hues of purple lupines, golden balsamroot, and delicate columbines. Hiking trails that were once blanketed in snow now lea... 05/04/2024

As spring ushers in a kaleidoscope of colors and scents, there's an air of excitement in Sandpoint, Idaho as the town gears up for a beloved tradition—the opening day of Farmers' Market. A celebration of community, sustainability, and locally-sourced goodness, the market's debut is a beacon of hope and renewal for both residents and visitors alike.Farmers' Market at Sandpoint begins on May 4, 2024 and runs through October 12, 2024. The Market is open on Saturday mornings and Wednesday afternoons in Farmin Park in downtown Sandpoint, Idaho Saturday markets are from 9am until 1pm; Wednesday markets from 3pm until 530pm.Welcoming the Season:For many in Sandpoint, the opening day of the Farmers' Market marks the unofficial start of the warmer months. It's a time when vendors dust off their ... 05/04/2024

Calling all biking enthusiasts and families alike! Get ready for two annual bike rodeos coming up next week in Sandpoint and Ponderay. These events promise an afternoon of fun, education, and community spirit, all centered around bike safety and skills development.Hosted by the Lake Pend Oreille School District's Safe Routes to School coordinator, Erin Billings, these rodeos are perfect for riders of all ages and abilities. Here's what you can expect at each location:Sandpoint Bike Rodeo:Date: May 3Location: Parkside Church, 423 N. Lincoln Ave.Time: 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.Details: This free event offers a bike safety check with minor repairs, skill-building activities, and valuable information on bike safety. Pre-registration is not required. Sponsored by the city of Sandpoint, LPOSD Saf... 05/01/2024

Reel in the Excitement: Exploring the Sandpoint Fishing Derby in IdahoAttention anglers, there's no better way to experience the thrill of fishing than at the annual Sandpoint Fishing Derby. With its scenic setting, friendly competition, and abundance of fish, the derby has become a beloved tradition that draws fishermen and women from near and far. Let's dive into the excitement and explore what makes the Sandpoint Fishing Derby a must-attend event for fishing enthusiasts of all levels.Casting Off: The Basics of the Sandpoint Fishing DerbyThe Spring Fishing Derby from April 27th to May 5th.  Anglers of all ages and skill levels gather at designated fishing spots along the lake's shoreline or aboard boats to try their luck at catching the biggest fish and competing for prizes. You can p... 04/30/2024

  Boise ID year end data suggest continuing seller's market; lower sales and declining prices. Boise ID Market Year End Report Single family home sales declined by 22 percent in Boise Idaho. Average sales price was lower by 4 percent; the median price was lower by 5 percent. Main contributing factors: high interest rates, inflation, low inventory of available homes for sale in Boise. Single Family Homes Boise  2023 2022 Difference  No. of Sales 2901 3536 -22% Median Price $501,000 $530,000  -5% Average Price $625,482 $629,386 +4% Days on Market 34 23 +11 days Condos & Townhomes Boise 2023  2022 Difference  No. of Sales 488 538 -9% Median Price $380,000 $425,000 -11% Average Price $419,389 $474,728 -12% Days on Market 40 23 +17 days   Every market is different. If you'd like to find out ... 02/08/2024

2024 Top Boise New SubdivisionsLearn more about the best places to live in the Boise area in 2024. Check out the best-selling, top luxury, and most affordable subdivisions for new homes. This is Build Idaho's 8th year of tabulating total sales, median sold price, and price per square foot. Additionally, we share the price of homes sold in each community. The report is based exclusively on new home sales across the Treasure Valley including rural areas like Emmett and Wilder. Subdivision Total Sales Median Sold Price Price Range Median Price/ SqFt The Oaks North N Meridian 122 $766,260 $422,875 to $1,300,000 $262 Brittany Heights N Caldwell 86 $371,312 $308,235 to $499,990 $208 Carriage Hill West S Nampa 77 $489,900 $336,600 to $796,650 $241 Adams Ridge N Nampa 74 $375,917 $306,639 to $5... 01/15/2024

This month's challenge on ActiveRain includes Sharing an Act of Kindness of Someone You Know. I am writing to tell the world about a man I greatly respect, Doug Raper.He used to work for an non-profit that grants wishes to children.  That is still a great and noble cause; however, one day he had a wish for an 18 year old.  That person couldn't receive their wish because they were "too old".Doug Raper looked around and couldn't find any other organizations to refer them to, so he did the best possible thing . . . he started a non-profit that would! In July 2010, Wish Granters was born.  To date, they have granted over 375 terminal wishes!I first learned about this great organization in 2014 when a friend of mine's wife was granted a wish.  They went to Alaska and were able to see the Nor... 12/27/2023

Nurses and anyone in the medical field including nurses, x ray techs, orderlies, janitorial office staff may apply for Grants to help with down payments on your next home.  https://nextdoorprograms.com/rain-silverhawkIn the vast landscape of healthcare, nurses stand as the unsung heroes, tirelessly working to provide comfort, care, and support to those in need. Their commitment is unparalleled, facing daily challenges that go beyond the call of duty. This tribute is dedicated to the nurses who work selflessly, often enduring double and triple shifts, navigating needle sticks, and handling combative patients with grace and resilience.The Daily Grind:Nursing is far from a 9-to-5 job; it's a round-the-clock commitment to healing and compassion. Nurses are no strangers to being on call and ... 12/08/2023

Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts and seekers of exceptional customer service! Today, I've got to give a massive shout-out to a true hero in the automotive world—Taven Groves at O'Reilly Auto Parts in Ponderay Idaho. Picture this: it's pouring rain, I'm desperately in need of new windshield wipers, and, lo and behold, Taven steps in to save the day.I don't know about you but I hate changing windshield wipers, they are never the right size, they never go on easily. Not only did he help me find the perfect size, but he also managed to save me some hard-earned cash. And here's the kicker—he offered a free installation service! In less then a minute, Taven expertly installed the wipers on my car, all while braving the relentless cold, wet, downpour. Now, that's what I call good old-fashione... 12/07/2023

 We are excited to announce that Tara Hart has joined Sandpoint Realty.  Congratulations Tara Hart on joining Sandpoint Realty! We're excited to empower your journey with unparalleled support, cutting-edge resources, and a collaborative environment that ensures your success in every transaction.  Hello, I'm Tara Hart and I am committed to making your real estate experience not only rewarding, but also stress-free. I express creativity through art and sharing my knowledge. I am learning to cultivate vibrant gardens, understanding that home is more than a property; it's where dreams unfold. Let's embark on this journey together, where professionalism converges with passion, ensuring your real estate goals become a reality. Connect with me at tarahartrealty@gmail.com or call me at 208-304-... 12/06/2023

As the crisp autumn leaves fall and the temperatures begin to dip, residents of Idaho are gearing up for the magical transformation that is winter. Whether you're a seasoned local or a newcomer to the Gem State, preparing for winter is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable season. Join me as we delve into the comprehensive guide to prepping for winter in the beautiful state of Idaho.Winterizing Your Home:Idaho winters can be chilly, so it's crucial to winterize your home. Check for drafts, insulate windows and doors, and ensure your heating system is in top-notch condition. Don't forget to clean out gutters and trim tree branches to prevent potential damage during heavy snowfall.Vehicle Prep:Before the first snowflake falls, give your vehicle some TLC. Switch to winter tires, check... 11/04/2023

In the dynamic world of real estate, success isn't just about properties; it's about relationships, strategy, and continuous learning. For new agents entering the bustling industry, having a seasoned mentor can make all the difference. Do you remember your first year (or two or three) in real estate?   What a great time to reach out and help a new agent develop their career and achieve lasting success.Knowledge Transfer:One of the key benefits a seasoned real estate agent can offer is knowledge. Every single transaction is a learning experience.  You can provide insights into market trends, negotiation techniques, and the art of closing deals. Through shared experiences, a new agent gains access to a wealth of practical knowledge that textbooks just can't provide.Networking Opportunitie... 11/03/2023

  All the hard work done! Recently remodeled this single level 3 bed, 2 bath ranch-style haven is a perfect blend of modern comfort and timeless elegance. Step into a spacious floor plan bathed in natural light, featuring high ceilings, new paint, fixtures, and new laminate wood flooring throughout. The heart of this gem is the beautiful kitchen, upgraded appliances, breakfast bar, and enhanced by recessed lighting. Built in 2005 and recently remodeled this year on a .20 acre lot. Enjoy the serene ambiance of a fenced backyard and a timber beam covered Trex deck, overlooking a picturesque greenspace. Amenities include low-maintenance vinyl siding, ceiling fans, updated bathrooms, large bedrooms, an en-suite master with a walk-in closet, and a 2-car garage. Located in an area of nice hom... 11/02/2023

I am pleased to have hit another huge milestone online today, my blogs have been viewed over 1.5 million times!In today's digital world of viral social media posts, that may not seem like a lot, but I am extremely pleased. To me, it doesn't really matter as much about the number of hits as it does about the personal connections that I have made with my fellow industry professionals around the United States.I have received and closed referrals from Realtors and Brokers that I have never met in person via ActiveRain blogs.  I have also sent them leads for buyers moving to their area or helping my friends find a listing agent if they didn't know a good Realtor in their hometown.I believe ActiveRain is still the number one blogging site for Realtors in the United States.  As I compare mysel... 10/25/2023

Boise Real Estate Market - Sept 2023Boise real estate market is a seller's market. Despite the low inventory of available homes and lower home sales, the prices remain steady.Boise real estate sales (single family homes) were lower in September by 23 percent when compared to September 2022. Home prices were slightly higher - average sale price was higher by 2 percent. Prices and sales increased slightly on the month to month basis as well - see July report. Below you'll find property selling data in September '23 vs. September '22 for Boise as well as Ada County. Contact us for your Free Home Evaluation.  Call (208)918-5007 today. We'll be happy to help!Single Family Homes Boise September 2023 September 2022 Difference  No. of Sales 241 313 -23% Median Price $519,000 $500,800  no change... 10/24/2023

Welcome to 58114 Hwy 200 Clark Fork Idaho listed by Rain Silverhawk Sandpoint RealtyBeautiful Log home and barn on 10.17 acres river access and amazing views overlooking the Clark Fork Valley and Bitterroot Mountains. This immaculate single level 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath rancher boasts an enchanting river rock floor-to-ceiling hearth, slated entry, warm wood floors, office space and a spacious kitchen with abundant cabinets and a breakfast bar. Recently remodeled bathrooms barn wood tile walk-in showers an oversized 2-car garage, tool shed.Step onto two covered decks, one screened-in, where you can savor breathtaking views throughout all four seasons. Fenced garden area, fruit trees and a multitude of flowering perennials. Great horse set up with 4 stall barn including loft for hay storage a... 09/27/2023