by Jennifer Louis | Jan 16, 2025 | Discover Boise
Boise, affectionately known as the “City of Trees,” is a treasure trove of hidden gems and quirky tidbits that even some locals might not know. Let’s dive into some of Boise’s best-kept secrets, amusing local customs, tricky pronunciations, unique housing facts, and the burgeoning wine scene that makes this city truly one-of-a-kind. Here are eight facts I bet you don’t know about Boise:
Pronunciation Puzzles: Sound Like a Local
Navigating Boise’s streets is one thing; pronouncing them correctly is another adventure. Impress your friends by mastering these local tongue-twisters:
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Chinden Boulevard: A blend of “Chinese” and “garden,” reflecting the area’s history of Chinese gardens. Pronounced “CHIN-din.”
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Ustick Road: Named after Dr. Harlan P. Ustick, a German immigrant. It’s “YOU-stick,” not “U-stik.”
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Owyhee Street: An older English spelling for Hawaii, named in honor of Hawaiian trappers. Say “oh-WHY-hee.”
- Nez Perce Street: Names after the Nez Perce Indian Tribe, who once considered Idaho part of their territory. The name comes from a French trapper’s misidentification of other native people with nose piercings as part of the Nez Perce tribe. Pronounced: “NEZ-purse”
Quirky Intersections: Where Streets Get Cheeky
Boise’s street names can lead to some amusing intersections that might make you do a double-take:
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Emerald & Palace: A nod to the Wizard of Oz’s Emerald City.
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Maple & Syrup: A sweet spot that sounds like breakfast.
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Greenleaf & High: An intersection that might make you chuckle.
These playful pairings add a touch of humor to your daily commute.
Freak Alley Gallery: Art in Unexpected Places
Tucked away in downtown Boise, Freak Alley Gallery is Northwest’s largest outdoor mural gallery. This ever-evolving space showcases impressive street art from local artists, making it a must-visit spot for art enthusiasts and curious wanderers alike.
Basque Block: A Taste of the Old Country
Did you know that Boise boasts the second-largest Basque population outside of Spain? The Basque Block is a vibrant cultural district where you can immerse yourself in Basque heritage, enjoy traditional cuisine, and experience unique festivals.
Geothermal Heating: A Warm Welcome
Boise is home to one of the largest geothermal heating systems in the world. Over 20 miles of underground pipelines distribute geothermal heat to warm around 6 million square feet of buildings throughout the city, including the State Capitol.
Unique Housing Facts: From Prisons to Penthouses
Boise’s real estate has its quirks too. The Old Idaho Penitentiary, operational from 1872 to 1973, now serves as a historical site where visitors can explore the cells and learn about its infamous inmates. On a lighter note, the city has seen a surge in converting old industrial buildings into chic lofts, blending historical architecture with modern living.
Boise’s Booming Wine Scene: A Sip of the Unexpected
When you think of Boise, wine might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but the city and its surrounding areas are home to a thriving wine industry. The Snake River Valley, Idaho’s first American Viticultural Area (AVA) established in 2007, encompasses over 8,000 square miles in southwestern Idaho and parts of eastern Oregon. This region boasts a unique terroir, with vineyards planted at elevations up to 3,000 feet, contributing to the production of high-quality wines.
Just a short drive from downtown Boise, the Sunnyslope Wine Trail in Caldwell features 17 wineries and vineyards, offering a delightful day trip through Idaho’s wine country. For those who prefer to stay within the city, Boise’s urban wine scene is flourishing, with several tasting rooms and wineries offering exceptional experiences. Here are a few local favorites:
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Cinder Wines: Located in Garden City, Cinder Wines is known for its meticulously crafted wines, including bold reds and crisp whites. Their modern tasting room provides a stylish setting to enjoy their diverse selection.
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Telaya Wine Co.: Situated along the Boise River, Telaya offers a serene environment to savor their handcrafted wines. Their riverfront patio is perfect for relaxing with a glass of their signature Syrah or Viognier.
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3 Horse Ranch Vineyards: Located in the gorgeous setting of the Eagle Foothills, experience an unforgettable tasting at their wine tasting room or outdoor restaurant. They use 100% Idaho grown grapes and are highly recommended by the locals.
Exploring these wineries not only offers a taste of Idaho’s burgeoning wine industry but also provides a unique way to experience the local culture and community.
Fun Fact: The Blue Turf
Boise State University is renowned for its iconic blue football field, known as the “Smurf Turf.” It was the first non-green turf in the country, with Boise State even trademarking the term.
Boise’s charm lies in its blend of rich history, cultural diversity, and a touch of the unexpected. Whether you’re a newcomer or a lifelong resident, there’s always something new to discover in this dynamic city. Would you like to know more facts about Boise? Download our free relocation guide or set up a no-obligatino relocation consultation below.
Considering a move to the Boise area, set up a relocation consultation with relocation expert, Jennifer Louis, at (208) 509-9122 or [email protected]. 
by Jennifer Louis | Dec 9, 2024 | Boise Home Tips, Decoration and Staging
In today’s more cautious real estate market, where buyers take their time and scrutinize every detail, the value of staging a home cannot be overstated. While it may have once been enough to simply place a “For Sale” sign in your yard, today’s market demands a more strategic approach, especially in desirable Boise neighborhoods. The stats show that homes that are staged in today’s cooler market have superior results compared to non-staged homes.
Homes that are staged are not just more appealing; they also sell over the asking price and spend fewer days on the market compared to their non-staged counterparts. According to Frances Joy Staging, one of Boise’s top staging companies, staged homes fetch prices that are 5-20% higher on average. This substantial price difference is driven by how staged homes, showcased with professional photography, make a stronger impression online, compelling more buyers to move from browsing to visiting in person.
Photography That Captivates
Given that 95% of buyers first view homes online (National Association of Realtors), capturing their hearts digitally is crucial. Professional photos that highlight a home’s best features can make all the difference, allowing potential buyers to envision living there, which is often the first step toward a visit.
Staging That Sells
Whether a home is vacant or occupied while on the market, staging is key. For vacant homes, professional staging can transform a space into a welcoming environment. Occupied homes, too, can benefit immensely from staging. Simple changes like rearranging furniture, boxing up personal items, and adding a few strategic decorative touches can significantly enhance a home’s appeal and perceived value.
Your Partner in Real Estate: Comprehensive Services at No Extra Charge
At Welcome to Boise and Beyond, we understand the power of staging. That’s why we offer a free home staging consultation with every listing. Coupled with our professional real estate photography and robust marketing strategies, our approach ensures your home stands out not just locally but also to out-of-state buyers. I, Jennifer Louis, bring years of marketing expertise to ensure your property reaches its maximum potential audience.
If you’re considering selling and want to ensure your home is positioned to sell quickly and for the best possible price, reach out for a free consultation and staging evaluation. As part of our commitment to your success, we provide staging services at no additional charge, a strategy that has proven to substantially increase sales prices and reduce days on the market compared to non-staged homes.
For a free home consultation and to learn more about how we can help sell your home efficiently and profitably, please contact me, Jennifer Louis, at (208) 509-9122 or [email protected]. Let’s make your home selling experience as rewarding
by Jennifer Louis | Dec 5, 2024 | Idaho Real Estate, Market Trends
The temperatures are dropping, but not so for home prices in the Treasure Valley. Contrary to cooler weather expectations, we’ve actually experienced a slight increase in home values from 2023, along with a rise in market listings compared to last year. What does this mean for us as we look ahead to 2025? Let’s dive into today’s market indicators to forecast what might be on the horizon.
Take a Look at the Boise real estate market update December 2024:
Ada County Trends in Selling Prices
As of December 2024, approximately 31% of homes in the Boise metro area sold for full asking price or above, a rise from about 28% in 2023. Conversely, nearly 70% of homes sold below the original asking price. Homes that fetched the asking price or higher typically spent just 3 days on the market, highlighting their high desirability due to sought-after features, locations, or competitive pricing. Conversely, homes that sold below asking lingered nearly 30 days on the market, with about half requiring a price reduction to attract buyers. Effective pricing from the outset can significantly impact final sale prices.
Canyon County Market Snapshot: 2023 vs. 2024
In Canyon County as of December 2024, 26% of homes sold for the full price or more, a slight decrease from 30% the previous year. Homes that exceeded asking prices took about 7 days to go pending, mirroring 2023’s data. In contrast, 74% of homes sold below the asking price, with an average of 35 days to go pending. Increased new construction contributes to longer market durations as homes are often listed well before construction commences.
Boise Real Estate Market Insights
Despite interest rates not dropping as anticipated, the Ada and Canyon Counties market has remained stable since the slowdown two years ago. Predictions indicate Boise home prices may surpass those in cities like Portland and Denver over the next decade, driven by incoming residents. As 2025 approaches, expect homes priced competitively or in desirable locations to sell quickly. Average market days might exceed 30, with sellers likely facing buyer requests for closing cost concessions or interest rate buy-downs. It’s common for buyers to start with lower offers, anticipating a negotiation.
Tips for Sellers: Pricing and Market Strategy
- Current Market Comparables: Homes should align with the prices of similar properties in the area to avoid low appraisals and potential sales jeopardies.
- Overall Costs and Desired Net Gains: Factor in all expenses and set your price to leave room for buyer negotiations or to attract multiple offers.
- Move-In Ready vs. Fixer Uppers: Homes ready for immediate move-in attract more buyers. If selling a fixer-upper, ensure the price reflects its condition to encourage offers.
For the Buyers: Time to Move.
The Boise market is vibrant, with slightly rising inventory offering more choices. Act swiftly—properties, especially in sought-after areas like the North End or East Boise, are selling fast. Be prepared with a clear list of must-haves and pre-arranged paperwork.
For the Sellers: Shine and Polish!
If you’re selling this December, make your home stand out. Tidy up, declutter and address any lingering issues to impress potential buyers. Correct pricing initially is crucial for a swift sale. Keeping abreast of Boise’s ever-changing market conditions is vital, whether buying or selling. Regular updates will enable you to navigate confidently and effectively.
Whether you’re on the buying side or the selling side, staying informed is your secret weapon. Market trends in Boise can shift as quickly as our mountain weather, so staying connected and on top of the latest stats, shifts, and success stories will help you navigate the market confidently and capably.
Talk to an Expert
In a fluctuating market, it’s essential to consult a real estate professional who deeply understands local dynamics. Online opinions and advice from acquaintances may be well-intentioned but can lead to costly mistakes. For personalized guidance on navigating Boise and the wider Treasure Valley market, consider scheduling a consultation with Jennifer Louis, your Boise Metro Area Real Estate Expert. Contact me at (208) 509-9122 or via email at [email protected] To set up an appointment. Set an appointment today to understand the market trends in Boise and the surrounding Treasure Valley with Jennifer Louis, Boise Metro Area Real Estate Expert at (208) 509-9122 or [email protected].
by Jennifer Louis | Sep 10, 2024 | Idaho Real Estate, Market Trends
As we roll into September, the leaves might be gearing up for a change, and perhaps, so should your real estate ambitions—whether you’re buying or selling, there’s something in the air here in Boise beyond that crisp fall breeze.
Take a Look at the Boise real estate market update September 2024:
Ada County Trends in Selling Prices
As of August 31, 2024, approximately 33% of homes in the Boise metro area sold for full asking price or above, up from about 29% in 2023. Nearly 68% of the homes sold under the original asking price. What do these numbers indicate? For the homes that sold at the original asking price or above the median days on the market was 3 days. This demonstrates that the homes were highly desirable and most likely had sought-after features or locations or were priced competitively. Homes that sold under the asking took nearly 30 days to go pending and nearly 50% of them had to drop their price before going pending. Pricing right from the start can make all the difference in the price you end up with.
Canyon County Market Snapshot: 2023 vs. 2024
In Canyon County, as of August 31, 2024, 22% of the homes for sale sold for full price or above asking price and took 4 days to go pending. This is just about the same numbers as of 2023. 78% of homes sold under the original asking price and took 30 days on average to go pending.
Boise Real Estate Market Insights
The market in Ada and Canyon Counties has stabilized over the past two years, moving away from the frenzied pace where homes sold in under a week and above asking price with multiple offers. Despite this shift, some sellers and agents still set prices as if at the height of the COVID real estate boom. Often, sellers believe that high pricing will still attract offers, but this strategy can leave buyers shooting in the dark, reluctant to make offers they fear will be rejected. Generally, buyers are hesitant to invest emotional and physical effort into offers that are likely to be declined.
As an experienced listing agent, I advise my clients to consider several factors when pricing their homes:
- Current Market Comparables: Homes should be priced based on what similar properties are selling for in the area. Pricing without comparable support may lead to low appraisals if buyers are using financing, jeopardizing the sale, or forcing last-minute price reductions.
- Overall Costs and Desired Net Gains: Account for closing costs, broker fees, existing mortgages, and your desired net proceeds. Ideally, set the home value slightly above market comps to accommodate buyer negotiations for closing costs or other concessions or slightly lower to incite multiple offers if your area or home has features or a location that could bring multiple offers.
For the Buyers: Get Ready to Jump!
The Boise market remains a lively playground for potential homebuyers. Inventory is inching up, giving you a bit more breathing room and a few more options to choose from. Don’t let the extra choices slow you down, though—Boise properties still aren’t sticking around for long, especially those well-loved gems in desirable neighborhoods like North End or East Boise. Quick tip? Have your must-haves nailed down and your paperwork ready to roll. Speed and clarity are your best friends in a market that’s as welcoming yet competitive as a game of neighborhood flag football.
For the Sellers: Shine and Polish!
Selling your home in Boise this September? It’s time to put on the ritz. With more homes hitting the market, ensuring your property stands out is key. Think of it as prepping for the homecoming dance—spruce up the yard, declutter like a minimalist, and fix those little quirks you’ve laughed off for years. Buyers are ready and eager, but they’re looking for the cream of the crop. A little effort goes a long way in making a stellar first impression. And remember, pricing it right from the get-go is like hitting the perfect dance move at just the right beat.
Everybody: Keep Your Eyes Peeled!
Whether you’re on the buying side or the selling side, staying informed is your secret weapon. Market trends in Boise can shift as quickly as our mountain weather, so staying connected and on top of the latest stats, shifts, and success stories will help you navigate the market confidently and capably.
Talk to an Expert
In a fluctuating market, it’s essential to consult a real estate professional who deeply understands local dynamics. Online opinions and advice from acquaintances may be well-intentioned but can lead to costly mistakes. For personalized guidance on navigating Boise and the wider Treasure Valley market, consider scheduling a consultation with Jennifer Louis, your Boise Metro Area Real Estate Expert. Contact me at (208) 509-9122 or via email at [email protected] To set up an appointment. Set an appointment today to understand the market trends in Boise and the surrounding Treasure Valley with Jennifer Louis, Boise Metro Area Real Estate Expert at (208) 509-9122 or [email protected].
by Jennifer Louis | Aug 26, 2024 | Idaho Real Estate, Market Trends
Navigating the Shifts: Insights for Home Buyers and Sellers
As Boise’s real estate market continues to adjust to broader economic landscapes, several trends are emerging that both buyers and sellers should consider. Here’s a deeper look into how the market has evolved over the past year, considering key factors like selling prices, transaction types, and market velocity.
Take a Look at the Boise Area Real Estate Market Facts and Trends for August 2024
Ada County Trends in Selling Prices
In 2024, approximately 34% of homes in the Boise metro area sold for full asking price or above, up from about 29% in 2023. This indicates a competitive market where well-prepared homes are in high demand. Moreover, the median home price in Ada County has reached $545,000 for both resale and new construction, highlighting the increasing value and investment buyers are willing to place in quality properties.
Canyon County Market Snapshot: 2023 vs. 2024
In Canyon County, the market has shown notable changes from 2023 to 2024:
- 2023 Overview:
- Median Final Sales Price: Approximately $395,000
- Average Days on Market (DOM): Around 43 days
- Homes Sold at or Above Asking Price: 21.9% of homes achieved this mark, with 559 homes selling at or above the listed price after considering closing costs.
- 2024 Overview:
- Median Final Sales Price: Approximately $425,000, marking a 4.9% increase from 2023.
- Average Days on Market (DOM): Decreased to about 57 days.
- Homes Sold at or Above Asking Price: 23.5% of homes sold at or above the original asking price after accounting for closing cost contributions.
These figures from Canyon County demonstrate a robust but slightly less heated market compared to Boise, with homes taking longer to sell but still fetching competitive prices.
Cash Transactions vs. Mortgage Purchases
The proportion of homes purchased with cash has notably risen, indicative of robust investor interest and a significant segment of buyers looking to bypass the complexities of mortgage financing. This trend influences market dynamics, often leading to quicker closing times and potentially fewer contingencies.
Impact of Interest Rates
Current mortgage rates have dipped to around 6.125% for a 30-year fixed mortgage, a decrease from last year’s average of nearly 6.94%. This reduction in rates has potentially increased buyer affordability, allowing more people to enter the market and existing homeowners to consider upgrading. The expectation of further rate cuts by the Federal Reserve could continue to foster this buying enthusiasm.
Looking Ahead
As we progress through 2024, potential buyers are advised to take advantage of the lower interest rates, while sellers might want to capitalize on the high demand, especially for homes that align with modern buyer preferences. Both parties should remain vigilant about shifts in economic indicators and Federal Reserve policies, which could impact mortgage rates and overall market conditions.
Conclusion
The Boise and Canyon County real estate markets remain dynamic and promising, with opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Staying informed about these trends and aligning strategies accordingly will be key to navigating this active market successfully. Whether you’re planning to buy your dream home or seeking to sell at a competitive price, the current market conditions offer favorable prospects for informed and proactive participants.
Talk to an Expert
In a fluctuating market, it’s essential to consult a real estate professional who deeply understands local dynamics. Online opinions and advice from acquaintances may be well-intentioned but can lead to costly mistakes. For personalized guidance on navigating Boise and the wider Treasure Valley market, consider scheduling a consultation with Jennifer Louis, your Boise Metro Area Real Estate Expert. Contact me at (208) 509-9122 or via email at [email protected] To set up an appointment. Set an appointment today to understand the market trends in Boise and the surrounding Treasure Valley with Jennifer Louis, Boise Metro Area Real Estate Expert at (208) 509-9122 or [email protected].
Jennifer Louis, Boise Area Real Estate Expert is a relocation specialist for Boise and the Treasure Valley. Helping hundreds succeed in finding their perfect home while simultaneously assisting homeowners to prepare and sell their homes. 