July 19, 2019

Open House Weekend - 4 Gorgeous New Listings Saturday & Sunday!

We've got four vibrant new property listings available this weekend! We'll be showing 985 W Deer Crest on Saturday, July 20th from 1 to 3 PM.

Our three other fabulous listings will be shown on Sunday, July 21st from 1 to 3 PM. 

985 W Deer Crest | NW Meridian (top left and bottom right)
Live well in this impressive, generously spacious home in desirable Paramount Sub! The open floor plan includes five bedrooms–one with full ensuite on the main level–plus an office and bonus room! The sleek gourmet kitchen has SS appliances, gorgeous Quartz counters and flows into great room with stylish stone fireplace. Abundant windows fill the home with natural light and the covered patio extends the livability outside to the large backyard. Immaculate and smartly designed with HERS Index score! Dual HVAC. Close to four community pools and six parks.
5 bedroom |  3.5 bath |  3305 sq.ft. 
>> Click HERE for more property info

2575 S Old Hickory | NE Boise (bottom left)
Exceptional home with timeless design and curb appeal in Harris Ranch! Warmed by rich hardwoods, the expansive floorplan features generous living spaces and flexible rooms, chef's kitchen, intimate dining room with elegant fireplace and three outdoor patio areas to offer the perfect setting for relaxing and entertaining. The stunning staircase leads to upper loft area and three bedrooms, including the master retreat with gorgeous spa-like bathroom. Beautiful views from the extended covered patio and balcony. Community pool and plenty of extras included!
4 bedroom |  3 bath |  2893 sq.ft. 
>> Click HERE for more property info

3081 S Brookridge | NE Boise (middle left)
Immaculate home with contemporary flair in Harris Ranch! High-style brick wall accents and hardwoods warm the entry and impressive living and entertaining space. The well-appointed kitchen gleams with quartz island, six-burner gas range, SS wall oven, pantry/appliance counter and built-in bar. Dining area steps out to large, partially covered patio with separate lounge and eating area. Retreat to the master with beautiful en-suite bath, tiled shower and deep soaking tub! Bonus room or fourth bedroom offers oversized windows and privacy.
4 bedroom |  2.5 bath |  2341 sq.ft. 
>> Click HERE for more property info

5417 S Onaga | SE Boise (top right)
Inviting single-level charmer in Columbia Village! Bright and airy floorplan is accentuated by vaulted ceilings and abundant windows. Crisp white cabinets in kitchen contrast nicely against black appliances. Split master bedroom offers privacy, with ensuite bathroom, walk-in closet and access to outside paver patio. The large covered back deck is the perfect spot to host gatherings and entertain! Community rec center with four pools, tennis court, indoor racquetball and gym. Accessible to walking/biking paths and close to great schools.
3 bedroom |  2 bath |  1206 sq.ft. 
>> Click HERE for more property info

July 12, 2019

Open House Weekend - 3 Posh New Properties!

Open House - 3 properties

We've got three posh new property listings for this weekend! Visit them all this Sunday, July 14th from 1 PM to 3 PM. 

2073 S Shoshone | Boise Bench (bottom left and bottom right)
Live on the Boise Bench in style! This modern farmhouse new-build is just minutes to Downtown, I-84, airport & BSU! Spacious kitchen w/ granite tops, custom cabinetry & subway tile. Main level boasts 9' ceilings, shiplap accents, stylish hardware & lighting fixtures & a generous bdrm that doubles as a flex/media rm. Large upstairs bedrooms feature vaulted ceilings & ensuites w/ quartz counters, custom tile showers & back-splashes, large closets & plenty of natural light. Private fenced backyard & 2-car garage!
3 bedroom |  3 bath |  1779 sq.ft. 
>> Click HERE for more property info

2061 S Shoshone | Boise Bench (top right and middle left)
Incredible opportunity to own modern craftsmanship on The Bench! Impeccable design & high-end details in this brand-new build include 9’ ceilings, gleaming granite, custom marble & tile accents as well as upscale hardware & lighting fixtures. Kitchen opens to great room & is perfect for hosting gatherings. Take the entertaining outside to the covered private patio & low maintenance yard. Two masters w/ gorgeous ensuite bathrooms & walk-in closets.
3 bedroom |  3 bath |  1708 sq.ft. 
>> Click HERE for more property info

5861 S Schooner | SE Boise (top left)
Spacious & bright floorplan w/ dramatic soaring ceilings in desirable Surprise Valley! Kitchen has tons of cabinets & counter space - opens to wonderful family room w/ cozy fireplace & a private office or flex room. Master bdrm features a large ensuite w/ updated tile floor, separate soaker tub & walk-in shower. Beautiful yard w/ mature landscaping, garden space & custom brick paver patio. New kitchen appliances, water heater, roof 2017. Enjoy the community pools, clubhouse, tennis courts & walking paths!
3 bedroom |  2.5 bath |  2428 sq.ft.
 
>> Click HERE for more property info

July 9, 2019

Top 5 Reasons You Should NOT FSBO

Top 5 Reasons You Should NOT FSBO | MyKCM

Rising home prices coupled with a lack of inventory in today’s market may cause some homeowners to consider selling their home on their own (known in the industry as a For Sale By Owner). However, a FSBO might not be a good idea for the vast majority of sellers.

The top 5 reasons are listed below:

1. Online Strategy for Prospective Purchasers

Recent studies have shown that 95% of buyers search online for a home. In comparison, only 13% use print newspaper ads. Most real estate agents have an Internet strategy to promote the sale of your home. Do you?

2. Results Come from the Internet

Where did buyers find the home they actually purchased?

  • 50% on the Internet
  • 7% from a yard sign
  • 28% from a Real Estate Agent
  • 1% from newspapers

The days of selling your house by putting up a sign and listing it in the paper are long gone. Having a strong Internet strategy is crucial.

3. There Are Too Many People to Negotiate With

Here is a list of some of the people with whom you must be prepared to negotiate if you decide to For Sale By Owner:

  • The buyer who wants the best deal possible
  • The buyer’s agent, who solely represents the best interest of the buyer
  • The buyer’s attorney (in some parts of the country)
  • The home inspection companies, which work for the buyer and will almost always find some problems with the house
  • The appraiser, if there is a question of value

4. FSBOing Has Become Increasingly Difficult

The paperwork involved in the process has increased dramatically as industry disclosures and regulations have become mandatory. This is one of the reasons that the percentage of people FSBOing has dropped from 19% to 7% over the last 20+ years.

5. You Net More Money When Using an Agent

Many homeowners believe that they will save the real estate commission by selling on their own. Realize that the main reason buyers look at FSBOs is because they also believe they can save the real estate agent’s commission. The seller and buyer can’t both save the commission.

A study by Collateral Analytics revealed that FSBOs don’t actually save anything by forgoing the help of an agent. In some cases, they may actually cost themselves more. One of the main reasons for the price difference at the time of sale is:

“Properties listed with a broker that is a member of the local MLS will be listed online with all other participating broker websites, marketing the home to a much larger buyer population. And those MLS properties generally offer compensation to agents who represent buyers, incentivizing them to show and sell the property and again potentially enlarging the buyer pool.”

The more buyers that view a home, the greater the chance of a bidding war for the property. The study found the difference in price between comparable homes of size and location is currently at an average of 6%.

Listing on your own leaves you to manage the entire transaction yourself. Why do that when you can hire an agent without additional cost?

Bottom Line

Before you decide to take on the challenge of selling your house on your own, let’s get together to discuss your needs.

June 28, 2019

Open House Weekend - 5 HOT New Properties!!

We've got five HOT new property listings for this weekend! Visit them all this Sunday, June 30th from 1 pm to 3 pm. 

5809 W Battlement | NW Boise (top left)
Fantastic NW Boise location, on cul-de-sac, backs to Castle Hills Park w/ no back neighbors! Gorgeous single level home has multiple walkouts, decks & a courtyard for the ultimate in outdoor living. Interior is spacious and bright w/ abundant windows, vaulted ceilings, rich hardwood floors & open floor plan.
3 bedroom |  2 bath |  1423 sq.ft. 
>> Click HERE for more property info

3042 S Shadywood | Harris Ranch, NE Boise (top right)
Modern farmhouse combines contemporary style w/ warmth & functionality in beautiful Harris Ranch! Welcomed by the large covered front porch, you’ll feel right at home as you enter the immaculate living space complete w/ hardwood floors, custom cabinetry, shiplap accents, sleek fireplace & chic lighting fixtures.
4 bedroom |  2.5 bath |  2434 sq.ft. 
>> Click HERE for more property info

4959 E Woodcarver | Harris Ranch, NE Boise (middle left)
Exquisite design & stylish finishes in Harris Ranch! Enjoy gatherings in the generously-sized living/dining area, graced by gorgeous hardwood floors, fireplace, beautiful chandelier & wall of windows. 
4 bedroom |  3 bath |  2428 sq.ft.
 
>> Click HERE for more property info

3032 S Brookridge | Harris Ranch, NE Boise (bottom left)
Style & Function in Harris Ranch! Contemporary finishes & floor plan feature fabulous living & entertaining spaces. Great room w/ stunning fireplace opens to gourmet kitchen featuring large island, gleaming quartz counters, gas top.
3 bedroom |  2.5 bath |  2650 sq.ft. 
>> Click HERE for more property info

3815 S Mill Site | Harris Ranch, NE Boise (bottom right)
Contemporary stunner in amazing Harris Ranch location! Modern, sleek finishes are warmed by rich hardwood floors & dramatic stone fireplace on the main. Upgraded sliding barn doors & built-in beverage bar add character to the open floor plan.
4 bedroom |  2.5 bath |  2562 sq.ft. 
>> Click HERE for more property info

June 13, 2019

3 Things to Know in the Housing Market Today

3 Things to Know in the Housing Market Today! | MyKCM

A lot is happening in the world, and it’s having a direct impact on the housing market. The reality is this: some of it is positive and some of it may be negative. Some we just don’t know yet.

The following three areas of the housing market are critical to understand: interest rates, building materials, and the outlook for an economic slowdown.

1. Interest Rates

One of the most important things to consider when buying a home is the interest rate you will be charged to borrow the money. In our recent post we posed the question, “Are Low Interest Rates Here To Stay?” The latest information from Freddie Mac makes it appear they are. We are currently at a 21-month low in interest rates.3 Things to Know in the Housing Market Today! | MyKCM

2. Building Materials

Talk of tariffs could also affect the housing market. According to a recent article, the National Association of Home Builders reports that as much as $10 billion in goods imported from China are used in homebuilding. Depending on the outcome of the tariff and trade discussions between several countries, there could be as much as a 25% boost in the cost of building materials.

3. Economic Slowdown

In a prior blog post on this topic, we began the year with many economic leaders thinking we could expect a recession in late 2019 or early 2020. As spring approached, we reported that economists had started to push that projection past 2020.  Now, three leading surveys indicate that it may begin in the next eighteen months.3 Things to Know in the Housing Market Today! | MyKCM

Bottom Line

We are in a strong housing market. Wages are increasing, home prices are appreciating, and mortgage rates are the lowest they have been in 21 months.  Whether you are thinking of buying or selling, it’s a great time to be in the market.

June 6, 2019

Motivation from our Top Realtor, Dawn Templeton

How to Succeed As a Top Realtor

Moving to Boise from Orange County, CA in 1999, not knowing anyone, or having any connections whatsoever, was frightening! We moved to provide a more family-friendly environment for our son, Jake Templeton, and we took a huge risk!!

So, how do you go from knowing no one in a brand new state, to building the #1 real estate team in East Boise??

  1. First, take a risk! Don't be afraid to take risks... no risk, no reward. I always say, "feel the fear and jump anyway".
  2. Second, don't ever listen to the nay sayers. People always have opinions which may not be right for you. And, most people don't like going out of their comfort zone, which is a killer for building a business and a truly extraordinary life.
  3. Third, set your intention, write down your goals, and visualize your future.
  4. Fourth, find a mentor or business coach. There are people who have probably done what you seek to do.. our business changed dramatically when we got our first mentor!
  5. Fifth, NEVER GIVE UP! Most people give up way too soon. Tenacity is the key to success.
May 27, 2019

Top 5 Home Seller Mistakes

Our very own Dawn and Mark Templeton discuss the most common home seller mistakes and how to avoid them. Check out the video for the list and helpful tips!

Posted in Selling Your Home
May 20, 2019

Starting the Search for Your Dream Home? Here Are 5 Tips!

Starting the Search for Your Dream Home? Here Are 5 Tips! | MyKCM

In today’s real estate market, low inventory dominates the conversation in many areas of the country. It can often be frustrating to be a first-time homebuyer if you aren’t prepared.In a realtor.com article entitled, “How to Find Your Dream Home—Without Losing Your Mind,” the author highlights some steps that first-time homebuyers can take to help carry their excitement of buying a home throughout the whole process.

1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage Before You Start Your Search

One way to show you are serious about buying your dream home is to get pre-qualified or pre-approved for a mortgage before starting your search. Even if you are in a market that is not as competitive, understanding your budget will give you the confidence of knowing whether or not your dream home is within your reach.This step will also help you narrow your search based on your budget and won’t leave you disappointed if the home you tour, and love, ends up being outside your budget!

2. Know the Difference Between Your ‘Must-Haves’ and ‘Would-Like-To-Haves’

Do you really need that farmhouse sink in the kitchen to be happy with your home choice? Would a two-car garage be a convenience or a necessity? Could the ‘man cave’ of your dreams be a future renovation project instead of a make-or-break right now?Before you start your search, list all the features of a home you would like and then qualify them as ‘must-haves’‘should-haves’, or ‘absolute-wish list’ items. This will help keep you focused on what’s most important.

3. Research and Choose a Neighborhood You Want to Live In

Every neighborhood has its own charm. Before you commit to a home based solely on the house itself, the article suggests test-driving the area. Make sure that the area meets your needs for “amenities, commute, school district, etc. and then spend a weekend exploring before you commit.”

4. Pick a House Style You Love and Stick to It

Evaluate your family’s needs and settle on a style of home that would best serve those needs. Just because you’ve narrowed your search to a zip code, doesn’t mean that you need to tour every listing in that zip code.An example from the article says, “if you have several younger kids and don’t want your bedroom on a different level, steer clear of Cape Cod–style homes, which typically feature two or more bedrooms on the upper level and the master on the main.”

5. Document Your Home Visits

Once you start touring homes, the features of each individual home will start to blur together. The article suggests keeping your camera handy to document what you love and don’t love about each property you visit.Making notes on the listing sheet as you tour the property will also help you remember what the photos mean, or what you were feeling while touring the home.

Bottom Line

In a high-paced, competitive environment, any advantage you can give yourself will help you on your path to buying your dream home.
Posted in Buying a Home
May 9, 2019

New Research Shows Housing Is Affordable For First-Time Buyers

New Research Shows Housing Is Affordable For First-Time Buyers | MyKCM

Home prices have been on the rise for the last seven years, leading many housing market analysts to conclude that first-time homebuyers are being shut out of the market due to affordability concerns.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports on the percentage of First-Time Home Buyers (FTHB) on a monthly and yearly basis. Their latest report shows that FTHB’s made up 33% of buyers in March, which matches their reported share in 2018. NAR uses survey data from their members to come up with this statistic, so their results do not include every transaction completed. Rather, they only show the transactions reported by members who complete the survey.

The other entity that reports on FTHB share is the American Enterprise Institute (AEI). The AEI uses data from mortgage applications that define an FTHB as “any borrower who did not have a mortgage for the preceding three years.” This means the AEI measurement also includes former homeowners who transitioned out of a home they previously owned and re-entered the market after at least 3 years. The latest FTHB share data from AEI shows that first-time buyers made up 57.5% of all mortgages in August 2018. NAR’s data shows a 31% share for the same time period.

New research from the New York Federal Reserve shows that these traditional reports on FTHB share have been unable to give an accurate depiction of this group’s involvement in the market. The NY Fed was able to take consumer credit data and identify when a mortgage payment entered a consumer’s credit report to determine when a first-time home purchase was made. Using this data, they were able to show that AEI’s reported FTHB share was consistently 10% higher. The NAR reports were right on par with their findings until 2010, when NAR’s share dropped to the 11% gap seen today.

So, what does this all mean?

First-time home buyers have not disappeared from the market as many analysts had believed. Buying a home is very much a part of the American Dream for younger generations, just like it had been for their parents and grandparents.This also means that rising prices have not scared buyers away from the market. Many first-time buyers are making sacrifices to save their down payment and make their dream a reality.

Bottom Line

If you are one of the many renters who is scrolling through listings on your phone every night dreaming of buying your own home, there are opportunities in every market to make that dream a reality!
Posted in Market Updates
April 23, 2019

Parade of Open Houses! April 28th!

It's that time of year for the Spring Parade of Homes🌷🏠🌷🏠 We want to join in on the fun this upcoming weekend by having a PARADE OF OPEN HOUSES!! Stay tuned because we'll be featuring our SIX Open Houses.. all leading up to Sunday when the homes will be open from 1 pm to 3 pm. Put it on your calendar because you don't want to MISS THIS!!

TREG's Parade of Open Houses

Boise Home for Sale

Boise Open House

Surprise Valley Home for Sale