Sept. 21, 2017

Community Comes Together for Boise Homeless

Boise has always had a way of coming together to help those in need, and this week we see it happening again. With so much strife in our world, it is wonderful to see so many entities coming together — working together — for a common good to solve homelessness — to build New Pathway Community Housing.

Boise broke ground on 41-units September, 2017. Idaho Housing and Finance Association has donated $500,000 in HOME funds as well as assigning Low Income Tax Credits to the facility; Ada County has contributed $200,000 to support the social services, to be provided by Terry Reilly and CATCH; the City of Boise has donated $1M in general funds; Saint Alphonsus and St. Luke’s Regional Medical Centers have provided grants of $250,000, and Boise City Ada County Housing Authority has assigned 40 Project Based Vouchers to New Path.

The building will be located on the site of the former Twin Dragon Chinese Restaurant, 2200 W Fairview, in Boise’s West End. New Path will be close to transportation, retail, grocery stores, recreation, and a variety of social services.

Homelessness is a problem in every city, and while there are many great organizations that help, such as the Boise Rescue Mission which provides shelter to homeless, New Pathway is a different model based on a ‘housing first’ approach. It is targeted to the chronically homeless.

From the New Path website: The Housing First approach views housing as the foundation for life improvement and enables access to permanent housing without prerequisites or conditions beyond those of a typical renter.

There is a large and growing evidence base demonstrating that Housing First is an effective solution to homelessness.  Consumers in a Housing First model access housing faster and are more likely to remain stably housed.  Permanent supportive housing has been found to be cost efficient.

Providing access to housing generally results in cost savings for communities because housed people are less likely to use emergency services, including hospitals, jails, and emergency shelter, than those who are homeless. One study found an average cost savings on emergency services of $31,545 per person housed in a Housing First program over the course of two years.  Another study showed that a Housing First program could cost up to $23,000 less per consumer per year than a shelter program.

Click Here to see KTVB TV news video with more info!

Templeton Real Estate Group wishes all involved congratulations and much success!

By Bonnie Way Snider

 

Sources and Read More:

http://www.newpathboise.org/

http://www.ktvb.com/news/local/ground-broken-in-boise-for-housing-complex-for-chronically-homeless/477395981

Posted in Market Updates
Sept. 11, 2017

Demand the Best! What Your Boise Realtor Should Do For You

Buying and selling a home is an emotional experience, and for many people, an overwhelming event. Finding a Results-Oriented Boise real estate agent who has the expert knowledge to guide you through the process will turn your experience from stressful to worry-free.

If you are selling your home, keep an eye out for recent sales in your area and find out which agent or agency made the sale. An agent who specializes in your area, such as East Boise, may already have buyers looking in your neighborhood. If you are looking to buy, this agent may have knowledge of homes that will be coming to market soon and get you in to see a home ahead of the competition.

When in the market for a Realtor, here are some things you should look for:

  1. Is the Realtor professional? Just like you would when hiring an attorney or an accountant, you want to work with somebody who is skilled and a true professional. You are dealing with a large amount of your money, so you will want somebody who knows how to negotiate and handle these types of transactions. Interview your Realtor to be sure he/she has the people skills, experience and professionalism to get the job done.
  2. Does the Realtor clearly communicate? An expert agent knows what needs to be done and when, and will be available to you to explain the process and answer your questions. If buying, the Realtor will listen to your wants and needs. And, if selling your home, the agent should have a clear marketing strategy.
  3. Does the Realtor really know the local market? A good Realtor will know the current market and trends. Whether buying or selling, the Realtor will understand what buyers are looking for in your area and what the market will bear. Pricing the house correctly will lead to a faster sale, and money in your pocket. Also, getting the price right from the start can possibly lead to multiple offers coming in, and you getting above asking price. Whereas, pricing your house too high will cost you in the end.

Templeton Real Estate Group is your expert East Boise team.  Call us today for your complimentary and confidential consultation – 208.473.2203. Let us help you find your dream home. And, as our client, you receive the pinnacle of service — FREE home staging services from our accredited team, top notch marketing and professional photography, along with skilled representation that gets results!

Whether it’s your first home purchase, or your fourth, there will always be some stress involved when dealing with likely your largest sale or purchase; however, having an experienced and trustworthy real estate agent on your side will make the process as worry free as possible and have you settled in to your new dream home in no time!

Templeton Real Estate Group — the best team in Boise!

By Bonnie Way Snider

Sept. 7, 2017

NEW LISTING | RAINTREE MEADOWS

Beautiful single level home in Raintree Meadows! Stunning interior features gorgeous warm-toned flooring, soaring vaulted ceilings, detailed crown molding and a spacious open floor plan.

Updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, raised breakfast bar, large pantry and classic bay windows. Formal dining room overlooks the large patio and lush backyard.

Roomy master suite with a walk-in closet, dual vanity and tastefully updated fixtures. Multi-use lawn feature equipped with electricity for outdoor entertaining. Fully fenced backyard with sizable shed. Tons of space in rare 3 car garage with epoxy floors and built-in shelving. Great location with easy access to downtown, the freeway and local schools.

3 BED | 2 BATH | 1268 SQ FT | 3 CAR

563 W Crimson Loop, Nampa, ID 83686

For directions and more information, click here!

Posted in Market Updates
Sept. 4, 2017

How Does Your Home Value Stack Up?

If you are familiar with Boise real estate lately, it will come as no surprise to you that the housing market is strong. As more people move to the Treasure Valley for jobs, retirement, etc., the inventory of existing homes decreases. Some houses are being purchased sight-on-seen and others unseen from neighboring states!

So, let’s see what the numbers say… Boise Regional REALTORS® has published its report using data from the Intermountain MLS through August 11, 2017.

Here’s what it says:

At Boise Regional REALTORS® (BRR), we feel like we’ve been talking about low inventory for months… and for good reason. A few weeks ago, Zillow’s Chief Economist Svenja Gudell posted on Twitter: “Inventory down YoY for 25 consecutive months now. We’re just past 2-years into the #inventorycrisis.” While we never like when the term “crisis” is used to describe the housing market, the sentiment reflects the pressure that many home buyers are feeling caused by the low inventory levels, especially for existing homes.

Gudell’s comments were based on nationwide trends, so what does this look like in the Boise Region?

Based on monthly data, inventory of existing homes in both Ada and Canyon counties has been down year-over-year for 34 consecutive months, starting October 2014. Let’s break this down by inventory (supply) and pending sales (demand)…

Inventory of existing homes in Ada County was at 1,702 in October 2014 and 1,238 in July 2017, a decrease of 27.3%. In comparison, there were 628 pending sales in October 2014 versus 1,078 in July 2017, an increase of 71.7%. Pending sales are homes under contract that should close within 30-90 days.

Looking at months supply of existing inventory — which takes the number of homes for sale divided by the average number of sales by month — there were 3.2 months in October 2014 in Ada County to 1.4 months in July 2017, a drop of 56.3%. (A balanced market—not favoring buyers or sellers—is typically between 4-6 months supply of inventory.)

In Canyon County, inventory of existing homes was at 886 in October 2014 and 600 in July 2017, a decrease of 32.3%. In comparison, there were 307 pending sales in October 2014 versus 537 in July 2017, an increase of 76.6%. That put months supply of inventory at 3.3 months in October 2014 compared to 1.5 months in June 2017, a drop of 54.5%.

How has the decrease in supply and increase in demand influenced home prices in the Boise Region? The median sales price of existing homes in Ada County increased 34.2% between October 2014 and July 2017, and increased 42.2% in Canyon County during that same period, illustrating BRR’s familiar refrain of how home prices are being driven by demand compared to supply.

For the full report and to see graphic breakdowns on specific areas, existing/resale versus new construction, click here.

Ada County Video

Canyon County Video

By Bonnie Way Snider

Source and Read More:

http://boirealtors.com/market-statistics/

Posted in Market Updates
Sept. 1, 2017

NEW LISTING | SOLTERRA

Contemporary single-level townhouse within walking distance of The Village at Meridian! Incredible location surrounded by exciting entertainment, shopping, restaurants, a private neighborhood park, and more.

Impressive interior is sleek and stylish featuring solid stone counter tops in the kitchen & bathrooms contrasting the rich custom cabinetry and detailed trim work throughout. From the bright and airy open floor plan, contemporary fixtures and luxurious finishes this like-new home is sure to impress!

This gorgeous townhouse is perfect for a low maintenance lifestyle. Solterra HOA provides lawn care and full landscaping. Relax in the fully fenced backyard without lifting a finger! 

Visit our open house on Sunday, September 10th from 1-3pm, or call us today to schedule an exclusive tour! 208-473-2203

1888 N Marnita Avenue, Meridian, Idaho 83646

Posted in Market Updates
Sept. 1, 2017

Boise City Council Denies Barber Valley Proposal; Developer Says He’ll Be Back!

On August 29, 2017, the Boise City Council denied developer J. Kevin Brunk’s (JKB Construction Management) proposal to build more than 100 apartments and 20 single-family homes at 3555 E Warm Springs Avenue (an 8.65-acre parcel located to the west of Dallas Harris Estates, Harris Ranch in East Boise).

As reported in The Idaho Statesman:

Brunk said he would go back over the proposal with the city’s planning staff in hopes of finding changes that will make the project acceptable to planners and the council.

He said that they’ll “probably tweak it more than a little” but that he didn’t know what kind of changes he ultimately would propose.

“But we’ll be back,” Brunk said.

City planners believed it didn’t include enough open space on the interior of the lot, specifically on its southwest corner, where Brunk’s team wanted to put up several buildings and dozens of apartments. Planners also wanted to see more walkways or other pedestrian-friendly infrastructure inside the development.

The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial of the project in June. Brunk’s team appealed that decision to the City Council.

Dozens of neighbors spoke at Tuesday night’s hearing, and almost all of them opposed the project. Many predicted a traffic disaster if the project were built as proposed. Some worried about decreasing property values, especially for the homes closest to the development.

Council members said design, not density, was the reason they objected to the project. Councilwoman Maryanne Jordan said a high-density project might work in that location if it met the guidelines for the nearby Harris Ranch and Barber Valley neighborhoods. Though the lot in question lies outside either of those neighborhoods, Boise law requires similar design standards, such as de-emphasized parking areas and front-oriented buildings.

Want to watch the hearing? Use this link to connect to Boise City Council Meeting 8/29/2017 6:00pm : scross down to last item on the agenda

8120 : CAR17-00004 / JKB Construction Management / Rezone of 8.65 acres from A-1 (Open Land) to R-2D/DA (Medium Density Residential with Design Review and Development Agreement).

CLICK HERE to read blog Boise City Council to Decide on Fate of East Boise Development originally posted on June 28, 2018.

Brief History of the Barber Valley and Harris Ranch Area

[Excerpt from Ellie McKinnon’s November 21, 2015, Special to the Statesman, History, Serenity in eastern Boise]

In 1902, James Barber built a lumber mill by the river, and a whole town developed there that carried his last name. In its heyday, railroads converged there to pick up loads of lumber grown in Idaho forests and milled in Barber.

Half a century or so later, Dallas and Alta Harris acquired land in the area and eventually established a cattle ranch. Dallas envisioned the area as the future site of a village occupied by families committed to the same ideals he cherished — preservation and stewardship of the environment. He drafted a plan in 1976 and, decades later, dreams have evolved into a very real legacy. Harris Ranch bills itself as a 1,300-acre development that “strikes a careful balance between new development and the protection of the environment, wildlife habitat and historic values in the Barber Valley,” according to its website.

by Bonnie Way Snider


Sources and Read More:

The Idaho Statesman, Sven Berg: 208-377-6275@IDS_SvenBerg http://www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/community/boise/article170142997.html

City of Boise, City Council – Summary of Meeting Minutes:

http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/Documents.aspx?id=201706051118343130

http://www.idahostatesman.com/living/article45877590.html#storylink=cpy

https://pds.cityofboise.org/media/307816/barbervalleyspecificplan_1-10.pdf

http://idahoptv.org/outdoors/shows/foothills/chuckmcdevitt.cfm

http://www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/community/boise/article157093994.html 

Posted in Market Updates
Aug. 29, 2017

Ultimate Home Sellers Checklist

Making the decision to sell your home is a big one, and may be made for many reasons. It could be a job change, or simply that your family has different needs or has outgrown your current house. No matter the reason, clients we talk with here in Boise experience a variety of emotions ranging from anxiety to absolute excitement!

The first step you should take once the decision is made is to find a full service real estate agent. You should have confidence that your agent can and will guide you through the process and communicate with you.  After that, you need to get your house ready.

Instead of feeling overwhelmed, follow this checklist (thanks to GreatColoradoHomes.com) — you’ll feel organized and in control!

Remember, you are not alone. The Templeton Real Estate Group team will be by your side to provide complimentary staging services. It’s a fact that staged and redesigned properties sell quicker and for more money. There are many statistics out there to support our belief, but our success with sellers is all the proof we need!

Call the best team in Boise, Templeton Real Estate Group today for your complimentary and confidential consultation — 208.473.2203 or via the web!

Enjoy this video which highlights some tips to getting your house clean and organized and ready to sell!

 

By Bonnie Way Snider

Source and Learn More:

https://www.greatcoloradohomes.com/blog/home-sellers-to-do-checklist-infographic.html

Posted in Selling Your Home
Aug. 25, 2017

NEW LISTING | RAINTREE VILLAGE

 

Spacious two-story family home perfect for entertaining!

The grand interior includes a sizable family room, an elegant great room, cozy gas fireplace, and a beautiful warm toned kitchen. Impressive master suite is open and bright with room galore. Master bath boasts dual vanities, a relaxing corner soaker tub, separate shower, and a generous walk-in closet.

Downstairs den makes a great multi-space room or potential 5th bedroom. Enjoy the huge fully fenced backyard with a large patio great for outdoor entertaining.

Wonderful location in Raintree Village with quick access to Midland Blvd, shopping, restaurants, schools, and more! Large bedrooms, new carpet and 3-car garage. 

 

 

4 BED | 2.5 BATH | 2,670 SQ FT | .16 ACRE

3320 S Oxbow Drive, Nampa, Idaho 83686

 

To learn more about your Top East Boise Realtors, click here!

Posted in Market Updates
Aug. 25, 2017

OPEN HOUSE | WARM SPRINGS MESA | AUGUST 27

Incredible hillside retreat nestled in Boise’s scenic Warm Springs Mesa!

Unbeatable views of the 1/3-acre lot from the large patio and master balcony. This one-of-a-kind location offers exciting wildlife viewing year-round. Abundant oversized windows provide a tranquil setting with a unique indoor-outdoor connection.

Artistic backsplash made of river rock from the Payette River completes the custom kitchen alongside stunning foothill views. Outdoor adventure awaits with immediate access to expansive trails system!

The lower level den includes built-in entertainment unit and doubles as fourth bedroom. Multi-use private outdoor space is set up for a hot tub, alternatively used as a large barbecue nook. Tons of storage offered in the fully accessible above-garage attic. Additional parking space available for RVs, boats, and more!

Visit the open house this Sunday, August 27th from 1-3pm.

2014 S Stone Ridge Way, Boise, Idaho 83712

3 BED | 3 BATH | 1,919 SQ FT | .34 ACRE

To learn more about this neighborhood, click here!

To learn more about your Top East Boise Realtors, click here!

Posted in Market Updates
Aug. 24, 2017

See Miley Cyrus’ New $5.3 Million Tennessee Farmhouse

If I could buy or build any style house in Boise, Idaho right now it would be a modern farmhouse. Of course, I would want it to have all of the modern amenities we’ve come to want and expect in our homes for convenience sake, but I would want it to have a nod back to simpler times.

There’s something about being surrounded by the look and smell of old wood that reminds us of life uncomplicated. The pure simplicity encourages us to relax, have a seat and just take a breath. I imagine myself on a cold, rainy day sinking into a big, comfy chair with a throw blanket and a cup of tea, browsing through my pile of unread magazines…ahh.

Notice I didn’t say anything about cows mooing or chickens clucking or anything grunting to be fed. I know some people like the idea of raising farm animals. But, I’m talking about the ‘modern’ farmhouse, where the only animal I have to feed is my spoiled Goldendoodle!

Anyway, all of this daydreaming was spurred on by my reading about country star Miley Cyrus’ recent purchase of a house in Franklin, Tennessee. I took a look at the pics and video, and fell in love. It has all of the warmth of a farmhouse, but has a lot of modern touches. Oh, and the wraparound porch makes me swoon. It’s also on a gorgeous piece of property, which makes it private enough to enjoy the enticing outdoor pool and hot tub any way you want to!

Take a look below, and daydream with me!

Whether you’re in the market for a farmhouse or a contemporary dwelling, Templeton Real Estate Group should be your first call — 208.473.2203 or visit us via the web.

We are dedicated and experienced professionals who will find you your dream home. Our office is located in Bown Crossing in beautiful East Boise, but we work all over Boise and the Treasure Valley. Read what our clients say about us!

Come say hi, and let us show you around our great city and everything that makes it great — Boise River, Boise Greenbelt, and our beautiful Boise Foothills. Whether walking, hiking, jogging, biking, or just appreciating the views, these are Boise gems and treasures of our Valley.

By Bonnie Way Snider

Read More and Source:

https://www.zillow.com/blog/miley-cyrus-tennessee-220465/

Here are some East Boise links that may be of interest:

Barber Park

Boise Foothills

Boise Hunter Homes

Boise River and Greenbelt

Boise Schools

Botanical Gardens

Bown Crossing

Brighton Corporation

Coffee Mill

Harris North

Harris Ranch

Library!

Lucky Peak

Marianne Williams Park

River Heights

Shakespeare Festival

Posted in Market Updates