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March 26, 2018

Builder Spotlight: Brighton Homes | Quality & Efficiency

Recently, we blogged about Boise Hunter Homes and their new development in East Boise, Harris North, part of the expansive Harris Ranch development. Continuing our look at what’s hot in the Boise real estate market, we’ll take a look this week at Brighton Corporation and the great work and beautiful homes they are building around the Treasure Valley.

 

Brighton Corporation is an Idaho real estate developer, that covers a full range of real estate development disciplines and includes some of Idaho’s premier residential communities, business parks and shopping centers.  Brighton’s residential and mixed-use communities are the result of thorough, thoughtful planning. Each community is designed around a unique theme that is carried throughout. Of note, Brighton Corp is responsible for the development of East Boise’s thriving Barber Valley, which is in our neck of the woods.

The Barber Valley has breathtaking scenery and wildlife found in the Boise Foothills, the Boise River and Greenbelt, Barber Park and Marianne Williams Park.  In addition, residents can enjoy Boise’s acclaimed Shakespeare Festival, concerts and events at the Botanical Gardens, local favorite Lucky 13 and the Coffee Mill are just a short bike ride away! Bown Crossing is also close as are great schools and a fabulous new Library!

One of the things we love about Brighton is that they take a proactive approach to protect, respect and live harmoniously with the area’s wildlife and works to educate its residents. And, in keeping with building smart, they also pride themselves on building green. They promise a commitment to healthy and efficient homes. Below is how they describe what they do:

Brighton Homes, was organized in 1994 to add a construction team to its well-established land development company. The founder’s desire for the type of company that Brighton Homes would become was reflected in the corporate motto “skillfully designed and masterfully crafted.”

The stock market crash of 2008 dealt a crippling blow to the housing industry nationally and in our local market. Like other builders, Brighton Homes was faced with a need to reinvent itself as it prepared to navigate a very uncertain future for residential construction.

Brighton Homes sought a clear mission that would provide guidance through the challenges that were certainly to come.  It was decided that 100% participation in the EnergyStar program would be the best way to convey to our buyers, trade partners and competitors that Brighton Homes was going to focus more than ever on building the best quality homes possible.  This is a difference you can see and feel in your new home.  Brighton Homes is a two-time national recipient of the National EnergyStar Partner of the Year award for 2014 and 2015. All of Brighton Homes are EnergyStar and HERS rated, so you have the assurance that these environmentally-friendly homes are built to deliver energy efficiency year in and year out.

From Brighton’s website, they offer information on what green building and energy efficiency means in their culture:

What Exactly Makes A Home Green?

Green building means improving the way that homes and homebuilding sites use energy, water, and materials to reduce impacts on human health and the environment. Building a green home means making environmentally-preferable and sustainable decisions throughout the building process-decisions that will minimize the environmental impact of the home while it is being built and over the many years it will be lived in.

Brighton Homes Energy Star Awards

Brighton Homes, an ENERGY STAR partner since 2009, is being honored for its work in building homes built to ENERGY STAR standards for greater energy efficiency. In 2017, Brighton Homes also made the 100% EnergyStar Commitment becoming the only new home builder in the Treasure Valley committed to building 100% EnergyStar Certified homes.

 

Would you like to visit one of Brighton’s beautiful homes? Call us and we’ll take you for a tour. Brighton has new homes in several great communities around the Treasure Valley, including:

Park Place at Barber Station

River Heights in East Boise

Bainbridge in North Meridian

Century Farm in South Meridian

Cartwright Ranch in Hidden Springs

Spurwing Greens in Meridian

And, though we specialize in East Boise, we represent clients all over the Treasure Valley, both buying and selling. Contact us today @ 208.473.2203 or email @ info@templetonrealestategroup.com

 

Take a look at one of my all-time favorite homes built by Brighton!
Quality build and so many fun and exceptional details:

 

 

By Bonnie Way Snider, Licensed Realtor® and Blogger

 

Source:

Brighton Corporation. http://www.brightoncorp.com

Posted in Boise Homes for Sale, Boise Real Estate, Boise Realtors, Boise Relocation, Buying a Home, Home Design, Meridian Homes for Sale
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March 23, 2018

20 Tips to Prepare for Selling this Spring

The Spring selling season is upon us and the Boise real estate market is HOT! Check out our 20 best tips for preparing your home for a quick and profitable sale

 

 

20 Tips for Preparing Your House for Sale This Spring [INFOGRAPHIC]

Tips for Preparing Your House for Sale This Spring [INFOGRAPHIC] | MyKCM

Highlights:

  • When listing your house for sale your top goal will be to get the home sold for the best price possible!
  • There are many small projects that you can do to ensure this happens!
  • The agents at Templeton Real Estate Group will have a list of specific suggestions for getting your house ready for  the market and is a great resource for finding local contractors who can help! Call us today at 208-473-2203
Posted in Boise Real Estate, Boise Realtors, Selling Your Home
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March 19, 2018

What We Love About East Boise

Community. That’s what most of us are looking for. Connection to others and, this is especially important when you are moving to a new city or state. Well, look no more! East Boise has it.

With work, school or our social lives, we as a society have our faces buried in one device or another for hours a day. When we come up for air, we find ourselves searching for face-to-face connectivity. It’s been proven that we humans are happier and healthier when we have human interaction. And, one of the things I love about East Boise is that at every turn, you can find that contact.

 


As our city expands with continued growth, developers are mindful of creating spaces where neighbors can gather. We’re seeing pocket neighborhood coffee shops, pubs and restaurants. Here in East Boise, Bown Crossing has all of those businesses, with sidewalk patios further engaging people. I am guilty of imbibing at a neighborhood patio and reaching out to pet a dog being walked by its owner. And, guess what happened? The owner and I ended up in a 30-minute conversation. (Oh, and I loved the dog breed so much, I ended up getting one of my own!) People here are so friendly and open to meeting one another.

On any morning of the week, but especially on a sunny weekend morning, you will find every sidewalk throughout East Boise filled with joggers, dog-walkers, cyclists, and people/families of all ages and sizes, all with a smile on their face and an easy hello to pass along to those who they pass. (Side note: if you think you can run into the local supermarket, make-up-less or unshaven and hide under your baseball cap, guess again. Add 5-minutes to your trip and get rid of the bags under your eyes, ‘cuz you’re gonna see someone you know and you’re gonna stop and chat for 5-minutes. :)

Also, the 25-mile Boise River Greenbelt is one of Boise's most beloved parks and is a gem in East Boise.  The riverside footpaths are great for a nature walk, bird watching or just getting away from it all. The tree-lined pathway follows the river through the heart of the city and provides scenic views, wildlife habitat and pedestrian access to many of the city's popular riverside parks. The Greenbelt also serves as an alternative transportation route for commuters. East Boise’s Barber Park is the ‘put in’ site for the countless river rafters who gather there during the summer months to cool off and beat the Boise heat.

Add to that, the Shakespeare Festival, the Botanical Gardens and outdoor concert venue Outlaw Field, Ridge-to-Rivers trailheads, Luck Peak reservoir, Warm Springs golf course, a fantastic new Library, views for miles, and easy access to both downtown and the mountains northward, you see why we are a little smitten with this part of town.

Have we convinced you to move here? Come join our easy and active lifestyle! We will walk you through the home-buying process and communicate everything you need to know, be sure to call Templeton Real Estate Group today!  As your East Boise Real Estate experts, we take special care of our clients; we listen to what you want and will find you your perfect match! Call us to check out some of East Boise’s great neighborhoods:  Harris Ranch, Harris Crossing. and  Harris North, River Heights at Barber Valley, and other East Boise neighborhoods.

 

And, though we specialize in East Boise, we represent clients all over the Treasure Valley, both buying and selling. Contact us today @ 208.473.2203 or email @ info@templetonrealestategroup.com

 

Come check out East Boise and see why it’s becoming a favorite destination in the Treasure Valley - great outdoor living, breathtaking scenery and wildlife found in the Boise Foothills, the Boise River and Greenbelt. Lucky Peak Reservoir, Barber Park and Marianne Williams Park.  In addition, residents can enjoy Boise’s acclaimed Shakespeare Festival, concerts and events at the Botanical Gardens, local favorite Lucky 13 and the Coffee Mill are just a short bike ride away! Bown Crossing is also close as are great schools and a fabulous new Library!

By Bonnie Way Snider, Licensed Realtor ® and Blogger

Source: 

City of Boise. https://parks.cityofboise.org/parks-and-facilities/parks/greenbelt/

 

Posted in Boise Homes for Sale, Boise Real Estate, Boise Realtors, Boise Relocation, Buying a Home, Fun Things To Do, Open Houses, Selling Your Home
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March 12, 2018

How Do I Buy and Sell a House at the Same Time?

Strategies for when you need to buy a home and sell the one you’ve got.

All buyers have their work cut out for them, between finding a home they like in a neighborhood they love and running the gauntlet of offers, counter-offers, and inspections. And, the Boise and Meridian housing market is hot right now, adding to the equation.

But for many buyers, that’s not even the half of it. They have a house to sell as well. So, the question is, do they buy a new home first? (If so, where will the money come from for a down payment?) Or sell the one they’ve got before buying? (If so, where will they live till they buy?)

There are challenges either way, but sometimes the best path is clear. The route you choose depends on your finances, local housing market, and whether you can stomach letting go of your home without knowing exactly where you’ll land. Here’s a closer look that may help clarify the right strategy.

You’re in a hot market where it can take a year to buy a house.

The strategy: Sell first.

Yes, of course it’s a pain to move twice, first into a rental, and eventually into a new home. But in a city with low inventory and multiple bidders for every house, you have little hope of having a contingency offer accepted. Your best bet? Rather than rush a decision you may regret, simply accept that you’ll be making two moves and play the long game.

“This way, because you have already sold your home, you can make a clean offer on the next place, with no contingency,” says San Francisco realtor Danielle Lazier. “In hot markets, making an offer ‘subject to the sale of your current home’ places you at a major disadvantage against other buyers.”

Another advantage to the sell-first approach, Lazier adds, is that “there’s no deadline to buy. You can shop confidently and be ready to jump when the right listing comes along.”

Making the Timing Work

Step 1: Find a rental with a month-to-month lease. If your rental is on the small side, put the bulk of your stuff in storage.

Step 2: With the home you’re selling now empty, you can stage it properly and sell it for the best price.

Step 3: When the house sells, get your financing in order, putting the proceeds from the sale into a liquid account so you’ll have a down payment ready when you make an offer on a new house.

You have enough funds available to make an offer now.

The strategy: Buy first.

For most people, buying first is a nonstarter because the down payment on their new home will come from the sale of the previous one. For those who can swing it, though, there are plenty of upsides to buying before selling.

First of all, “you only have to move once,” Lazier says. “Whether the home you buy is move-in ready or needs some work, you can coordinate the timing.”

Also, because you can move all your things to your new home before showing the home you’re selling, she adds, “you can maximize the price you get for your current home by marketing it vacant and staged.”

Another benefit? “The security of knowing where you are moving to,” Lazier says. “Some clients worry that they won’t be able to find a good home if they sell first. By buying first, you avoid having to take that leap of faith.”

Making the Timing Work

Step 1: Identify your sources of cash and make plans to liquidate what you need to make a solid offer. Gather the documentation as proof of funds.

Step 2: Make an offer.

Step 3: Once you’ve closed and moved in, prep your previous home for sale and put it on the market.

Step 4: When the home sells, use the proceeds to replenish the accounts you tapped to buy your new home.

You’ve found a job in a new city and start work in three months.

The strategy: Sell first.

“This isn’t an unusual situation,” says Gordon Stephenson, a Seattle-based broker. “Typically, buyers need the equity out of their existing home in order to make the new purchase. This means selling first.”

And there’s another reason not to rush a purchase, he adds: “If you’re moving to a new city, it’s probably smart to rent for a bit while you get the lay of the land and determine which neighborhoods best suit your needs, rather than buying right away.”

All this means that your existing home will likely be put on the market while you’re still living in it. While not ideal, selling a home you’re living in can be done successfully if you clear out anything you won’t need in the short term—off-season clothing, sports equipment, knick knacks—to declutter your home. Stephenson recommends hiring a stager to help sort out what should be removed to show the house at its best.

Making the Timing Work

Step 1: Prep your home and put it on the market.

Step 2: If it sells quickly, be upfront about your need to stick around until you move and negotiate a longer period until closing or a short-term rent-back to allow you to stay in the home until you’re ready to move to your new city.

Step 4: Find a month-to-month rental in your new city to be your home base while you get settled and begin your home search.

You’re selling in a hot market and moving to where the market is slow.

The strategy: Buy first.

The thought of carrying two mortgages keeps most buyers from attempting to buy before selling, but this is a rare situation where it actually makes sense. In a slow market, you’ll likely have an offer accepted quickly, even a contingency offer, and can then turn around and quickly sell the home you’re moving from.

Lazier says when she has clients in this situation, “I start working with them weeks or even months before their home is listed to get all of their ducks in a row to minimize the amount of time they’re holding two mortgages.

“We can usually prep a home for sale in two to three weeks, sell it within two weeks, and have a 21- to 30-day escrow,” she explains. “So all in all, their time with two mortgages can be as short as two months. I like to have the client budget for three months of two mortgages, to have some buffer for unexpected circumstances, but it usually ends up closer to two months.”

Those who can’t stomach the chance of carrying two mortgages at the same time may consider a contingency offer. “In this scenario,” says Stephenson, “making an offer contingent on the sale of the home in the hot seller’s market wouldn’t be unusual and would be the safest way for a buyer to make the move without any risk of having to carry both homes’ mortgages for any length of time.”

Making the Timing Work

Step 1: Work on improvements to the home you’re living in, so it’s ready to sell quickly when the time comes.

Step 2: Make an offer on a house in your new city. If you choose to make a contingency offer, ask for at least 60 days of contingency period.

Step 3: Once you close on a house in your new city and move out of your current home, put that house on the market.

Step 4: In the unlikely event you can’t find a buyer quickly, consider a bridge loan or a HELOC to maintain expenses until you can sell.

If you are thinking about buying and/or selling, please give Templeton Real Estate Group a call. We can help you navigate the process of buying and selling and alleviate your stress. We will help and guide you each step of the way, and we are always available to answer your questions. Call 208.473.2203 today! Our office is located in SE Boise's beautiful Bown Crossing.

12 MORTGAGE FACTS IN 90 SECONDS

 

Posted by Bonnie Way Snider, Licenced Realtor© and blogger

Source:

Trulia.com: https://www.trulia.com/guides/selling-buying-house-same-time/?ecampaign=con_cnews_digest&eurl=www.trulia.com%2Fguides%2Fselling-buying-house-same-time%2F

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gvjC1duT_TM

Posted in Boise Homes for Sale, Boise Real Estate, Boise Realtors, Boise Relocation, Buying a Home, Meridian Homes for Sale, Selling Your Home
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March 9, 2018

2 Open Houses Sunday March 11, 2018

 

 

Templeton Real Estate Group Open Houses

Sunday March 11, 1 to 3 pm

Highlands Hackberry

Open House: https://www.templetonrealestategroup.com/property/98684415/Manage

 

4606 N Torridon, Boise 83702
Highlands Hackberry

 

River Heights

Open House: https://www.templetonrealestategroup.com/property/98684521/Manage

Posted in Boise Homes for Sale, Boise Real Estate, Boise Relocation, Open Houses
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March 7, 2018

Home Values Too Inflated?

Are Home Values Really Overinflated?

Are Home Values Really Overinflated? | MyKCM

Last week, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) released their most recent Existing Home Sales Report. According to the report:

“The median existing-home price for all housing types in January was $240,500, up 5.8 percent from January 2017 ($227,300). January’s price increase marks the 71st straight month of year-over-year gains.”

Seventy-one consecutive months of price increases may have some concerned that current home values may be overinflated.

However, at the same time, Zillow issued a press release which revealed:

“If the housing bubble and bust had not happened, and home values had instead appreciated at a steady pace, the median home value would be higher than its current value.”

Here are two graphs that help show why home prices are exactly where they should be.

The first graph shows actual median home sales prices from 2000 through 2017.

Are Home Values Really Overinflated? | MyKCM

By itself, this graph could heighten concerns as it shows home values rose in the early 2000s, came tumbling down and are now headed up again. It gives the feel of a rollercoaster ride that is about to take another turn downward.

However, if we also include where prices would naturally be, had there not been a boom & bust, we see a different story.

Are Home Values Really Overinflated? | MyKCM

The blue bars on this graph represent where prices would be if they had increased by the normal annual appreciation rate (3.6%). By adding 3.6% to the actual 2000 price and repeating that for each subsequent year, we can see that prices were overvalued during the boom, undervalued during the bust, and a little bit LOWER than where they should be right now.

Bottom Line

Based on historic appreciation levels, we should be very comfortable that current home values are not overinflated.

 

Ready to Buy or Sell in Boise, Idaho? Cal the Templeton Real Estate Group today! 208-473-2203

Posted in Boise Real Estate, Market Updates
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March 7, 2018

Is the West the Best When it Comes to Real Estate Appreciation?

Home Prices: The Difference 5 Years Makes

Home Prices: The Difference 5 Years Makes | MyKCM

The economists at CoreLogic recently released a special report entitled, Evaluating the Housing Market Since the Great Recession. The goal of the report was to look at economic recovery since the Great Recession of December 2007 through June 2009.

One of the key indicators used in the report to determine the health of the housing market was home price appreciation. CoreLogic focused on appreciation from December 2012 to December 2017 to show how prices over the last five years have fared.

Frank Nothaft, Chief Economist at CoreLogic, commented on the importance of breaking out the data by state,

“Homeowners in the United States experienced a run-up in prices from the early 2000s to 2006, and then saw the trend reverse with steady declines through 2011. After finally reaching bottom in 2011, home prices began a slow rise back to where we are now.

Greater demand and lower supply – as well as booming job markets – have given some of the hardest-hit housing markets a boost in home prices. Yet, many are still not back to pre-crash levels.”

The map below was created to show the 5-year appreciation from December 2012 – December 2017 by state.

Home Prices: The Difference 5 Years Makes | MyKCM

Nationally, the cumulative appreciation over the five-year period was 37.4%, with a high of 66% in Nevada, and a modest increase of 5% in Connecticut.

Where were prices expected to go?

Every quarter, Pulsenomics surveys a nationwide panel of over 100 economists, real estate experts, and investment and market strategists and asks them to project how residential home prices will appreciate over the next five years for their Home Price Expectation Survey (HPES).

According to the December 2012 survey results, national homes prices were projected to increase cumulatively by 23.1% by December 2017. The bulls of the group predicted home prices to rise by 33.6%, while the more cautious bears predicted an appreciation of 11.2%.

Where are prices headed in the next 5 years?

Data from the most recent HPES shows that home prices are expected to increase by 18.2% over the next 5 years. The bulls of the group predict home prices to rise by 27.4%, while the more cautious bears predict an appreciation of 8.3%.

Bottom Line

Every day, thousands of homeowners regain positive equity in their homes. Some homeowners are now experiencing values even higher than before the Great Recession. If you’re wondering if you have enough equity to sell your house and move on to your dream home, let’s get together to discuss conditions in our neighborhood! Call the Templeton Real Estate Group at 208-473-2203

 

 

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Keeping Current Matters, Inc. does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Keeping Current Matters, Inc. will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.
Posted in Boise Real Estate, Market Updates, News
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March 4, 2018

Builder Spotlight: Boise Hunter Homes

It’s been well documented that Boise is at the top of the list of fastest growing cities in the country, and because of this, the city has experienced a housing inventory shortage for existing homes. How to solve this problem? Build new homes!

One of our favorite builders is Boise Hunter Homes (BHH), and we’d like to take a minute to shine the spotlight on them.

BHH is a family owned and operated business, and founders Jim and Jan Hunter bring more than six decades of home building experience to every home. They are committed to providing customers with the highest level of design, workmanship and customer service. They promise you a memorable home-building experience from start to finish, and include a one-year warranty guarantee after you’ve moved in.

So, what’s involved in building your home? Well, for starters, retain a buyer’s agent (we’d love for you to retain one of our Templeton Real Estate Agents!) to help you every step of the way. Your agent will work with BHH and can be of invaluable help to you through this process. However, here are the basics if you build with BHH:

SELECT YOUR COMMUNITY

Have your real estate agent show you communities to find your best fit. You will find BHH currently building in the following communities:

Boise

·         Harris Crossing

·         Harris Ranch

·         Harris North

Click here to check out more homes available in SE Boise!

Eagle

·         Dry Creek Ranch

·         Henry’s Fork sold out

Click here to check out more homes available in Eagle!

Meridian

·         Sky Mesa

Click here to check out more homes available in Meridian!

 

DEFINE YOUR DETAILS

Choose your floor plan and the exteriors for your home, then begin choosing what your house will look like on the inside.  A talented and experienced Interior design team will help you decide on paint colors, flooring types, counter options, light fixtures, and numerous other details that will convert your new house into your dream home.  The list of design options may seem lengthy, but their staff is there to help make the process as easy and painless as possible.

STANDARD FEATURES

Each floor plan includes a substantial number of high-quality standard features as listed on the Standard Features sheet available in any of the BHH sales centers.  They ask that prior to your scheduled design meetings, you carefully review this information to prevent any misunderstandings about which features are included in the base price of your new home. If you have any questions, your real estate agent, sales counselor and interior designer will be able to assist you.

BHH also prides itself on community engagement.  Some of the groups and/or events that Boise Hunter Homes is currently involved with include: Boise State Broncos, Boys and Girls Club of Ada County Sponsor, Toys for Tots, Official Sponsor of Rocky Mountain High School Debate Team, and Official Sponsor of Mountain View High School Girl’s Tennis.

 

Birds Eye View of Boise Hunter Homes Harris North development:

If you are interested in looking at any fabulous new Boise Hunter Homes in Boise, Meridian or Eagle, give us a call at 208.473.2203! Templeton Real Estate agents would love to give you a tour and help you find your dream home.

By Bonnie Way Snider, Licenced Realtor© and blogger

Sources:

Boise Hunter Homes: http://www.boisehunterhomes.com/

You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffxn5htDOiI

Posted in Boise Homes for Sale, Boise Real Estate, Boise Realtors, Boise Relocation, Buying a Home, Home Design, Meridian Homes for Sale
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March 2, 2018

Should you Sell Your Home Now?

Latest NAR Data Shows Now Is a Great Time to Sell!

Latest NAR Data Shows Now Is a Great Time to Sell! | MyKCM

We all realize that the best time to sell anything is when demand for that item is high, and the supply of that item is limited. Two major reports released by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) revealed information that suggests that now is a great time to sell your house.

Let’s look at the data covered in the latest REALTORS® Confidence Index and Existing Home Sales Report.

REALTORS® CONFIDENCE INDEX

Every month, NAR surveys “over 50,000 real estate practitioners about their expectations for home sales, prices and market conditions.” This month, the index showed (again) that homebuying demand continued to outpace the supply of homes available in January.

The map below illustrates buyer demand broken down by state (the darker your state, the stronger demand there is).

Latest NAR Data Shows Now Is a Great Time to Sell! | MyKCM

In addition to revealing high demand, the index also shows that compared to conditions in the same month last year, seller traffic conditions were ‘weak’ in 22 states, ‘stable’ in 25 states, and ‘strong’ in only 4 states (Alaska, Nevada, North Dakota & Utah).

Takeaway: Demand for housing continues to be strong but supply is struggling to keep up, and this trend is likely to continue throughout 2018.

THE EXISTING HOME SALES REPORT

The most important data revealed in the report was not sales but was instead the inventory of homes for sale (supply). The report explained:

  • Total housing inventory rose 4.1% from December to 1.52 million homes available for sale.
  • Unsold inventory is 9.5% lower than a year ago, marking the 32nd consecutive month with year-over-year declines.
  • This represents a 3.4-month supply at the current sales pace.

According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR:

“Another month of solid price gains underlines this ongoing trend of strong demand and weak supply. The underproduction of single-family homes over the last decade has played a predominant role in the current inventory crisis that is weighing on affordability.”

In real estate, there is a guideline that often applies; when there is less than a 6-month supply of inventory available, we are in a seller’s market and we will see appreciation. Between 6-7 months is a neutral market, where prices will increase at the rate of inflation. More than a 7-month supply means we are in a buyer’s market and should expect depreciation in home values.

As we mentioned before, there is currently a 3.4-month supply, and houses are going under contract fast. The Existing Home Sales Report shows that 43% of properties were on the market for less than a month when sold.

In January, properties sold nationally were typically on the market for 42 days. As Yun notes, this will continue unless more listings come to the market.

“While the good news is that Realtors in most areas are saying buyer traffic is even stronger than the beginning of last year, sales failed to follow course and far lagged last January’s pace. It’s very clear that too many markets right now are becoming less affordable and desperately need more new listings to calm the speedy price growth.”

Takeaway: Inventory of homes for sale is still well below the 6-month supply needed for a normal market and supply will ‘fail to catch up with demand’ if a ‘sizable’ supply does not enter the market.

Bottom Line

If you are going to sell, now may be the time to take advantage of the ready, willing, and able buyers that are still out searching for your house.

Posted in Boise Real Estate, Market Updates, Selling Your Home
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Feb. 26, 2018

How Safe is Your Home? Tips to Prevent Burglary

February is typically the lowest reported home burglary month – the cold and snow a likely deterrent. However, with spring fast approaching in Boise – and spring break vacations – now is a good time to assess the safety of your home. Use these tips to ensure your home is not a target for would-be thieves.

 

A Different Kind of Curb Appeal

Real estate agents aren’t the only ones who are keen to curb appeal: burglars are too. Your curb, yard, and daily behavior can tell burglars a lot about the goodies you’ve got behind closed doors. Below you’ll find a myriad of indicators that detail what a burglar considers to be welcome signs.

 

 

  • Landscaping
    Burglars have a fine appreciation for woody front yards and lavish landscaping. You know that large, weeping blue pine you planted out front? Well, it doubles as a hiding spot. Plus, all that money, time, and effort you put into your lawn is an indicator that you’re willing to put money into other items.
  • Hiding Spots
    Thieves love to fly under the radar. Any area that allows them to keep down low is of prime interest. Like your boxwood shrubs—great for keeping out of sight.
  • Windows
    The movies might lead you to believe that thieves use high-tech scopes to see what you have lying around the house, but they actually prefer a more rudimentary method of spying—windows! Windows offer a top-quality view of your valuables and allow burglars to see whether or not you have a home security system or a dog.
  • Toys
    Kids won’t always pick up after themselves, try as you might to get them to. Pricey-looking toys scattered throughout the front yard tell a burglar that you’re willing to spend the extra buck on playthings for your kid but are too busy to pick them up—meaning you’re also likely to leave the house unlocked or forget to arm your security system.
  • Trash
    As the saying goes, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Rooting through your trash isn’t the most glamorous approach, but it gives a thief insight as to what you own. Recycling is of particular interest because they can see whether or not you’ve purchased any big-ticket items. Know how to make their pilfering easier? Don’t break down the boxes—that way they know exactly what to look for when they revisit your home.
  • Buildup of Mail
    If you’re leaving town, ask a neighbor to pick up your mail for you. This prevents curious thieves from inviting themselves onto your stoop and into your home.
  • Resident Behavior
    Humans are creatures of habit and routine. Unfortunately, this helps burglars figure out when to strike. They’ll pay attention to when you leave, how long you’re gone for, if you’ve locked the door, and whether or not you unload expensive items in your driveway.

 

How to Know If You’re Being Targeted

Now that you know what a burglar looks for as they peruse potential houses, we’ll break down what you should look for in a burglar.

 

  • Odd Vehicles or People
    Be aware of strange vehicles or pedestrians acting out of the norm. Regardless of where you live, be it in a city, on a through-street, or on a cul-de-sac, you ought to keep your eyes peeled for vehicles or people loitering around for no particular reason. Don’t be afraid to call your local, non-emergency police number if you’re worried about something.
  • A Random Request or Handy Work Offer
    What might seem like an innocent request or offer to work can be a means to see the interior of your home. Thieves are true opportunists, and they’ll strike whenever the iron is hot. They want to get an idea of what your demeanor is like too. So be wary should a person come to your door with a work-related offer that’s just too good to pass up or a slightly odd, yet plausible request for assistance.
  • Subtle Changes
    Pay close attention to your home’s surroundings and front and backyards. Any small change can indicate that your house is being cased. Often, a thief will mark the house to see if anyone is home and will alter the mark to remind themselves to revisit that house. These marks can be as simple as an errant spray paint dot on the yard or house itself, a missing welcome mat, or even a miscellaneous item that’s repeatedly left outside of your home. The marks are often indicative of a “house draft.” A house draft occurs when a burglar places an item in front of your house. If you remove the item, you’re home. If you don’t, then burglars see that it’s time to seize the moment.

 

Items Thieves Look For

Burglars want to spend as little time in your house as they possibly can, which is why they have a list of go-to items. The following items detail what a thief looks for when they’re inside your home—and where they know they can find it!

 

  • Identity-Related Information
    Remember that passport application you’ve been meaning to mail out? You left it on the dining room table to remind yourself that it needs a stamp. If a thief gets their hands on your sensitive information, they can do a lot of damage.
  • Liquor
    Teenagers aren’t the only ones who raid liquor stashes—thieves often beeline to the liquor cabinet when you’re not home, so be mindful of where you hide that nice bottle of single malt scotch. We recommend leaving out a decoy bottle that’s easy for them to find: simply rinse out an empty bottle of spirits, and refill it with similar-looking liquid.
  • Home Goods and Decorations
    Burglars like a fast steal and an even faster turnover sale. So those decorative plates above the mantle are headed out the door.
  • Cash
    Thieves love cash. It’s impossible to reclaim, and a burglar gets immediate gratification from it. Not to mention, you store it in the most obvious of places—the sock drawer, a small safe, side table, bookcase, or even the medicine cabinet. Speaking of which . . .
  • Prescription Drugs
    These pint-sized items go a long way in terms of usage and resale value. And they’re easy to find—burglars often head straight to the medicine cabinet.
  • Jewelry
    Like you, thieves also value family heirlooms. You’ll need a creative spot to stash them other than the back of your underwear drawer—something like a safety deposit box would be more effective.
  • Tech Devices and Electronics
    This is a bit of a no-brainer. Computers, smart devices, TVs, and other electronic items offer a premium trade-in or resale value, and usually they’re left out in the open.
  • Firearms
    Criminals don’t like messing with a gun safe or locked cabinet, but if they need to go the extra mile for the sake of resale value, they will.
  • Tools
    If a thief can’t get into your house, they’ll try the garage, which likely is laden with tools that will bring in a nice wad of money.

 

How to Prevent Burglary

Burglars are predictably unpredictable, but there’s a bevy of ways you can proactively protect yourself. Below you’ll find a variety of suggestions to assist in anti-burglary defense.

 

  • Start a Neighborhood Watch System
    A neighborhood watch system is a resident-run surveillance arrangement that’s intended to thwart crime in your neighborhood. This civilian-based system is a great way to keep your community united and on the same page regarding issues like homelessness, new construction, and general resident safety. Ultimately, multiple eyes on the block mean fewer chances for crooks to steal from you.
  • Invest in a Security System and Cameras
    Give yourself peace of mind with a home security system. Your options vary from indoor or outdoor security cameras (without monitoring services) to well-reviewed security systems.
  • Keep Quiet on Social Media
    Vacation is exciting, but don’t showcase your absence on social media—you never know who is watching.
  • Make Your House Look Lived In
    When you’re out of town, make sure you put a hold on your mail. Put your lights on a timer, or ask your neighbors to intermittently park in your driveway. Give your home a lived-in look and feel.
  • Get a Smart Lock
    If you have kids, lose your keys frequently, or want to automate your home, look no further than a smart lock or deadbolt. Some smart locks allow you to lock or unlock the door from your phone, which is ideal for on-the-go or forgetful folks.
  • Don’t Open the Door for Just Anyone
    Don’t feel obligated to answer the door—especially if you don’t know the person. If you prefer to screen your visitors like you screen phone calls, check out our handy guide on smart doorbells.
  • Rely on Man’s Best Friend
    Regardless of how cute Fluffy might be, dogs are a formidable presence—a thief will hesitate to mess with their turf. If you’re dog-less, pick up a “Beware of Dog” sign to hang in your front window or porch.
  • Use Privacy Film
    Line decorative windows with privacy film for added defense against nosy neighbors or thieves. Privacy film keeps inquisitive eyes from seeing your valuables, yet still lets natural light seep through.
  • Close Your Blinds
    Late afternoon light is wonderful, but leaving your blinds raised opens up your home to passersby and therefore thieves.
  • Use Smart Bulbs and Motion Sensitive Lights
    Burglars want to be incognito, and smart bulbs or motion sensitive lights prevent that from happening. Smart bulbs can be controlled from a home security smart hub too.
  • Always Lock Your Doors and Windows
    An unlocked door is an open invitation. If you want to go the extra mile, outfit your windows and doors with motion sensors.
  • Beware of Oversharing
    Be cognizant of who you invite into your home and how much information you share with that person. That friendly handy worker might have ulterior motives.
  • Get a New Hiding Spot
    Burglars know the ole sock drawer hiding spot. Get creative—hide valuables in your kid’s toy basket or the canning supplies cabinet. Or better yet, buy yourself a safe.

 

Burglars share tips on how to secure your home

 

While there’s no surefire way to prevent a burglar from casing your house, remaining vigilant and aware and taking precautionary measures will help protect your home and family in the long run. So whether you choose a dog, motion sensitive lights, or a professionally monitored home security service, trust that you’ve made the effort to protect your home from thieves. 

By Bonnie Way Snider, Licenced Realtor© and blogger

Sources:

The Safewise Report: https://www.safewise.com/blog/how-to-outsmart-burglar-and-keep-home-safe/

HLN:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYbt0k2HALQ

 

 

 

Posted in Boise Real Estate, Boise Realtors
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