Sandpoint Real Estate Blog & Guide

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: February 2012, 3rd Edition

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 10:38:16 -0700

This series of blog entries features the various seasons in and around Sandpoint, Idaho. Sandpoint, North Idaho, Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort, and Lake Pend Oreille have been featured in the national news repeatedly over the last several years. Autumn of 2011 found Sandpoint, Idaho being voted America's Most Beautiful Small Town by Rand McNally, and in the winter of 2011/2012 Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort was named the Best Ski Resort of the Season byUSA Today/Rand McNally.

Real Estate in Sandpoint has been on the rise approximately 7% a year for three years, much in part due to the decrease in pricing. That being said, I have had some success in the area of waterfront sales in Sandpoint finding great values for my clients.

I am Gary Lirette, REALTOR® in Sandpoint and Coeur d'Alene. I am also the host of the North Idaho Business radio show and the North Idaho Arts & Adventure radio show broadcast on the North Idaho Talk Radio Network. Locally, we are heard on KSPT 1400 AM in Bonner and Kootenai counties and KBFI 1450 AM in Boundary County and Canada.

These pictures are part of my hobbies of hiking, climbing, and biking. My pictures were featured prominently in this year's Sandpoint Visitor's Guide, and I have contributed pictures to all area Chambers of Commerce. This particular series features the Torchlight Parade and Fireworks that happened at Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort, January 14th, 2012.

When you are looking for a REALTOR®, you should want a local business owner and someone who is very connected to the community. Few here have interviewed over 1,200 business leaders, characters, charities, politicos, etc. My experience with the hidden gems of North Idaho, as well as intricate knowledge of this slice of paradise makes me your logical choice.

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

Lake Pend Oreille near Sandpoint, Idaho

Gary Lirette, REALTOR® in Sandpoint, Idaho

Before Sunrise over Lake Pend Oreille in Sandpoint, Idaho

Pre-dawn in Sandpoint, Idaho

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: February 2012, 2nd Edition

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 06:31:16 -0700

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

Bottle Bay Road, Sandpoint, Idaho

Protected cove along Lake Pend Oreille

Lake Pend Oreille near Sandpoint,Idaho

Schweitzer Mountain as seen from Lake Pend Oreille

Near Sandpoint, Idaho

View from the Long Bridge crossing Lake Pend Oreille into Sandpoint, Idaho

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: February 2012, 1st Edition

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 06:20:41 -0700

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

The Old Grainery - Location of Evans Brothers Coffee

Coldwater Creek Wine Bar - My fav watering hole

Have I mentioned I am the author of the book Passion for Wine published by Hastings House?

As a wine author, I am constantly tasting wine. This location is Trinity at City Beach

View of Sandpoint, Idaho from Granite Ridge below Schweitzer

Local success story Laughing Dog Brewing

Sandpoint, Idaho viewed from Forever View across Lake Pend Oreille

The railroad bridge that crosses Lake Pend Oreille into Sandpoint, Idaho

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: January 2012, 7th Edition

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 09:34:20 -0700

I am Gary Lirette, REALTOR® for Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty in Sandpoint and Coeur d'Alene. I am also the host of the North Idaho Business radio show and the North Idaho Arts & Adventure radio show broadcast on the North Idaho Talk Radio Network. Locally, we are heard on KSPT 1400 AM in Bonner and Kootenai counties and KBFI 1450 AM in Boundary County and Canada.

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

The entrance to Sandpoint City Beach on Bridge Street

Statue of Liberty in the distance on Sandpoint City Beach

Sandpoint, Idaho along the shores of Lake Pend Oreille

The ruins of the old Humbird Lumber Mill in Sandpoint, Idaho on Lake Pend Oreille

Sandpoint and North Idaho beautiful after every snowfall

Sandpoint, Idaho: Winter Wonderland

Comeback Bay/Sagle Slough near Sandpoint, Idaho

Lake Pend Oreille in Sandpoint, Idaho

The ClockTower at Farmin Park in Sandpoint, Idaho

The clouds roll in over the Pend Oreille River

Pumkin, my kitten

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 08:22:59 -0800

This year, Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort was chosen as this year's best ski resort by USA Today and Rand McNally. This follows being named one of the Nation's Five Best Towns and America's Most Beautiful Small Town by Rand McNally in July as reported by ABC. Plus, just last month, Sandpoint was named to the Best Old House Neighborhoods 2012: Small Towns. Not a bad place to be.

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

Entering Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort

View from Switchback #5 before entering Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort

Schweitzer Mountain has over 2,600 skiable acres

Schweitzer Village

Skiing Schweitzer Mountain

The views of Lake Pend Oreille are spectacular from Schweitzer Mountain

Lots to do on Schweitzer Mountain

Sandpoint, Idaho, America's Most Beautiful Small Town below Schweitzer

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: January 2012, 6th Edition

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 09:23:55 -0800

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort above Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille

The Torchlight Parade on Schweitzer Mountain begins

Fireworks on Schweitzer Mountain

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

SARABETH - Fantastic Trio of Sisters from Sandpoint, Idaho with their first Music Video

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 03:02:12 -0800

So, these three sisters are part of the most talented, close-knit family. Truly what America is all about.

They are trying to get to their first milestone. 3,000 views.

Please view their video. They song and music is wonderful.

It was filmed in Sandpoint, Idaho.

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: 2012 Sandpoint Follies...way too much fun

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 19:59:33 -0800

These pictures are part of the 2012 Sandpoint Follies, celebrating its tenth anniversary. The Follies is a musical, comedic, risque show presented at the historic Panida Theater. My pictures were featured prominently in this year's Sandpoint Visitor's Guide, and I have contributed pictures to all area Chambers of Commerce.

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

The 2012 Sandpoint Follies at the historic Panida Theater

Jimmy Armbruster & Kate McAlister host the 2012 Sandpoint Follies at the historic Panida Theater

The Sandpoint Follies are beautiful

The Sandpoint Follies are a little bit strange

People have too much fun at the Sandpoint Follies

The house was packed at the 2012 Sandpoint Follies

The gurlz are beautiful at the Sandpoint Follies

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Sandpoint, Idaho recognized by National News Stories as America's Best Small Town

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 09:29:47 -0800

Scroll down and click a link to visit each article.

Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort named America’s Best Ski Resort of the Season in USA Today

Sandpoint, Idaho named America’s Most Beautiful Small Town by Rand McNally July 7, 2011

Skijoring: The Awesome Marriage of Skiing and Horseback Riding - Photo and video article about Sandpoint Winter Carnival’s newest event in the February 17, 2011 of Wired.com

Sandpoint nation's eleventh Coolest Small Town- Budget Travel in a 2010 national poll

Best Snowboard Resorts- Schweitzer Mountain among the Top 10 according to Sno.co.uk

Schweitzer Ski Resort - West's Best Ski Townsin December 2010 CNN Travel article

Most under the radar: Sandpoint, ID- In the West's best ski towns from the December issue of Sunset magazine

Big Dig Tells Nuanced Story About North Idaho Town- A team of archeologists unearth some great history from Sandpoint's early days under the new Sand Creek Byway in this November 2, 2010 Oregon Public Broadcasting write up.

Sandpoint: A Gay-Friendly Getaway in Conservative Idaho

Winter Vacation at Sandpoint Idaho - things to See and Do Near Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort, Sandpoint, Idaho from this October 9, 2010 Associated Content piece.

Idaho in the fall: A subtle beauty all its own - Published by MSNBC and carried by ABCNews.go.com on September 15, 2010.

Energy states, Idaho leading comeback from recession - Published in USA Today September 21, 2010.

Idaho's Unemployment Rate Improves - Published in USA Today September 21, 2010.

Idaho town draws railfans from around the world - Sandpoint, Idaho is one of our area's top tourist draws, according to this August 4, 2010 article in USA Today Travel.

Go Jump in a Lake - Published August on MSN about lake cities. Features Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille.

Leaving Sandpoint. - American Spectator..

Second homes: Having it all in Sandpoint, Idaho - Published April 16, 2010 in USA Today in an article about Ten Great Deals for second homes in the USA.

10 Pacific Northwest Getaways: Sandpoint, Idaho is four seasons of fun and recreation- Published in the Examiner on January 13, 2010.

Top 10 Dream Towns- Published in August 2008, Sunset Magazine states when crossing the Longbridge into Sandpoint "you know you're someplace special."

Sandpoint Winter Carnival provides perfect haven - Big Sky Journal in their December 2009 article suggested "Sandpoint, Idaho, may not be on your winter bucket list - but it should be."

Lost In The '50s Sandpoint Hot Rod Show

Sandpoint, Idaho: A great place to live - This December 12, 2009 story was featured on Localism and Activerain. Sandpoint, North Idaho, Schweitzer Ski Resort, and Lake Pend Oreille gets a lot of attention, and now you want to know the inside story.

Sandpoint Leads the transition movement - The NY Times published an article on the Sandpoint Transition Initiative in their story "The End is Near! (Yay!)" in April 2009.

The greatest places to live in the West - And Sandpoint is one of them according to the April 2009 issue of American Cowboy

Sandpoint, Idaho: Influential People Were Born in Sarah Palin's Hometown

Sandpoint, Idaho and Lake Pend Oreille Four-Season Recreation in Idaho's Lake Country

Sandpoint and Mountain Real Estate still a good buy - Mountain Living Magazine says Sandpoint is one of 5 "mountain markets to watch," with their September 2008 market appraisal.

Best Small Towns in US - In the August 2004 issue of Outside Magazine's Best Towns, Sandpoint was named the "The cool northwest's hot property."

Best Adventure Town - National Geographic Adventure put Sandpoint in their "best" category, touting not only our outdoors, but the civic minded spirit of the community in October 2009.

Best Small Town in the West - The LA Times takes note of Sunset Magazine naming Sandpoint the West's Best Small Town.

Sandpoint: Undiscovered Haven - Where to Retire magazine, with close to three million readers, directed retirees to Sandpoint in the December 2009 issue, proclaiming Sandpoint's "spectacular setting, fulfilling lifestyle and right prices." Gary Lirette was featured in this article.

Old West Atmosphere - In September 2006 the New York Times called Sandpoint an "Old West Atmosphere in a Sporting Paradise," with "small-town feeling" and "natural beauty."

Unforgettable Sandpoint - USA Today published a May 2007 article titled 15 Unforgettable Trips, with the travel writer beginning, "I was smitten with this lakefront town from the moment I saw it, tucked between the Cabinet and Selkirk mountains in Idaho's Panhandle like some Northwoods Brigadoon."

Top 10 Resort Towns - Ask Men noted Sandpoint's "breathtaking scenery is just the beginning," but you "discover there is much more to see."

Artist Haven - In the winter edition of SkyWest magazine, Sandpoint and Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort garnered, "When Mother Nature needs inspiration she goes to Sandpoint, Idaho"

Lakefront living in a tight-knit mountain retreat - National Geographic Adventure Magazine calls Sandpoint an 'idyllic adventure haven' in their August 2008 story Idaho's Last Stand

Schweitzer Mountain: Ski Magazine's Top 25 Ski Resorts - Schweitzer Ski Resort breaks the top list for the first time in 2007, being named #3 for Tree Skiing

Seven Secret Snowy Stashes - Schweitzer gets named in this SkiSnowboard.com and MSNBC article

Best 'Overlooked' Ski Resorts - Schweitzer Mountain made the list in this November 2007 USA Today article

Lakeside living that's far from the crowds - US News & World Report named Sandpoint one of the nation's top 10 retirement spots "that offer delightful surroundings and amenities but still are easy on the wallet," in this June 2007 Sandpoint profile

Fall Foliage; Bright Leaves, Big Country - The NY Times featured Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille in a guide for "leaf lovers" published October 2006

A great place to retire beyond Florida and Arizona - Writes Business Week in its July 2006 issue, “There's almost always something happening," for retirees.

Sunset Magazine loves Idaho's Lake Country in these articles: Perfect Summer Trips, The West's Most Beautiful Lakes, Legendary Lake Country

Top 10 Ski Towns - Men's Journal ranks Sandpoint second in their "10 Collest Mountain Towns" list of ski towns

Idyllic Sandpoint - USA Today: "It's a Norman Rockwell-meets-Ansel Adams classic, brought to life every summer..." That's how USA Today describes Sandpoint in the major feature story on Sandpoint published August 2004.

Telecommuting Heaven - Forbes magazine online named Sandpoint one of the best 10 cities to telecommute from. Check out the August 23, 2004 story posted at msnbc.com

Sandpoint basks in spotlight - This March 11, 2004 article in the Journal of Business talks about the boom year of 2004

Where the Growth Is: Hot Spots - This October 15, 1994 article in Inc. touts Sandpoint, Idaho as a place to set up a business. “Unlikely as it may sound to those struggling to grow businesses in suburban office parks or pricey downtown quarters, you don't have to set up shop in Santa Clara, Calif., or Norcross, Ga., or Arlington, Va., to stand a chance of building a growth company.”

Sandpoint - Spring in the Idaho Panhandle reveals lake monsters and reggae rhythms

Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort Accolades and News Stories

Schweitzer Mountain: Skiing Magazine's Top 25 Ski Resorts - Schweitzer Ski Resort breaks the top list for the first time in 2007, being named #3 for Tree Skiing.

Seven Secret Snowy Stashes - Schweitzer gets named in this SkiSnowboard.com article

Best 'Overlooked' Ski Resorts - Schweitzer Mountain made the list in this November 2007 USA Today article.

Top 10 Most Overlooked Ski Resorts – December 2, 2007 in the Denver Post

Schweitzer Reviews by Real People - From 2007 Epinions.com

Record Holiday – January 1, 2002 in Snowboard-mag

Overlooked Ski Spots – USA Today November 19, 2007

Undiscovered' Resorts: Seven Secret Snowy Stashes – A January 26, 2007 article in MSNBC

Great Summer Mt. Towns

Schweitzer Resort Reviews

Skiers Reviews

What are they saying about Schweitzer?

(Taken from the Schweitzer.com website in 2007)

"Unassuming and uncrowded, Schweitzer averages 100 more annual inches of snow than Sun Valley."
- Ski Magazine, December 2007

Schweitzer employee Al Rhodes' and his truck are featured on the cover for his win at the Top Truck Challenge.
- Four Wheeler Magazine, December 2007

"condos, lodges and high-speed quads have ratcheted Schweitzer's image up a few notches, but locals hold their own here..."
- Skywest Magazine, November/December 2007

"Kyler Cooley skips across the Pend (Oreille) in fading light"
- The Ski Journal, Volume Two - Number One

"Go before everyone else discovers Schweitzer's 6,400-foot-high Selkirk spine and 1200 acres of tamarack glades and curvy bowls."
- Skiing Magazine, November 2007

"Last winter's visit nearly blew my helmet off: Schweitzer now boasts the acreage, lifts, lodging and amenities to rival the finest resorts in North America."
- Horizon Air Magazine, November 2007

"#21 in the 25 Best Resorts in North America and #3 for tree skiing"
- Skiing Magazine, October 2007

"a relatively hidden gem.....Schweitzer resembles the beauty of that other mountain on the lake known as Tahoe"
- Powder Magazine, October 2007

"Schweitzer has the mountain conditions that skiers and snowboarders crave"
- Empire Builder Magazine, Fall/Winter 2007

"Stand at the top and feast your eyes on three mountian ranges, three states, Canada and beautiful Lake Pend Oreille."
- Skier News, 2008 season

"#1 Ski Resort in the Inland Northwest" - 13 years straight!
- Pacific Northwest Inlander Reader's Poll, March 2007

"This mountain is a hidden wonder"
- Western Parent, February/March 2007

"the largest and most posh of the five hills in the Inland Northwest..."
- AP article in The Washington Times, CNN.com and others, Jan 2007

"10 Undiscovered Ski Spots"
- MSN Travel, November 2006

"Where to go for the Holidays"
- Travel and Leisure Magazine, November 2006

"10 Best Northwest Resorts/Park & Pipe"
- Transworld Snowboarding, November 2005

"10 Coolest Mountain Towns - Sandpoint, Idaho"
- Mens Journal, November 2005

"Great Adventure Town - Where to Live and Play Now"
- National Geographic Adventure, September 2004

"A Norman Rockwell meets Ansel Adams classic"
- USA Today, August 20, 2004

"The twin playgrounds of the lake and 8,000 foot peaks prevent any dead spots on the calendar."
- Outside Magazine, August 2004

"Best Small Town in The West - Sandpoint, Idaho"
- Sunset Magazine, January, 2004

"Big Slopes and small-town charm at Northern Idaho's up-and-coming resort."
- Sunset Magazine, December 2003

"Legend has it that Schweitzer got its name from an old Swiss hermit who lived at the base of the mountains in the 1800s. He'd be shocked at the changes in the neighborhood today, but the view remains the same: spectacular."
- Seattle Magazine, November 2002

"Schweitzer is one of those little-known gems of the Northwest. It's difficult to see how this huge place remains hidden though 2,500 acres of skiing terrain, a vertical drop of near 2,500 feet, trails that stretch more than two miles. There are 59 named trails, and a good amount of bowl skiing (open snow fields with few or no trees to get in the way)."
- msn.com, October 29, 2002

Reader's Poll: #3 for snow quality
- Transworld Snowboarding, 2002

Editor's Pick #4
- SKI Magazine, October, 2002

"Melting spring snows at Schweitzer reveal a mossy labyrinth of mountain bike trails that accommodates every level of rider. There are brutal climbs and technical rock descents, like the exhilerating Butt Slide Rock and Moffit's Edge. Intermediate rides for mortals exist too, mixing woods, ridges and crumbling granite on swooping, leisurely riders."
- SKI Magazine, May/June, 2002

"If you missed buying in Aspen or Steamboat Springs, where prices have gotten unspeakable over the past 15 years, consider this ski area 50 miles from the Canadian border. Sandpoint sits amid the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains but it's not just another Swiss Miss copy of the Alps."
- Smart Money, February 2002

"Sweet Schweitzer: Sparkling ski slopes in Idaho are poised for discovery. Spruced up mountain resort may be the Next Big Thing...With Magnum hits of sunshine, 300 inches of fluffy snowfall a year and just a little more than two hours form Seattle by plane and car, he'd parked at what would become one of the best ski spots in the Northwest"
- Seattle Post Intelligencer, January 31, 2002

View of Sandpoint, Idaho from Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort

I am Gary Lirette,REALTOR® for Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty in Sandpoint and Coeur d'Alene. I am also the host of theNorth Idaho Business radio show and the North Idaho Arts & Adventure radio show broadcast on the North Idaho Talk Radio Network. Locally, we are heard on KSPT 1400 AM in Bonner and Kootenai counties and KBFI 1450 AM in Boundary County and Canada.

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: January 2012, 5th Edition

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 07:04:15 -0800

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

Pre-dawn overlooking Lake Pend Oreille

Sunrise over Lake Pend Oreille and Windbag Marina in Sandpoint, Idaho

Winter at Seasons at Sandpoint on Lake Pend Oreille

Trains are a part of life in North Idaho

Lake Cocolalla, North Idaho

Ice fishing on Lake Cocolalla, North Idaho

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

An interview of the Sandpoint Winter Carnival Event: Ski Joring

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 06:43:57 -0800

This video interview is about Ski Joring, the newest event for Sandpoint Winter Carnival. I am Gary Lirette, REALTOR® for Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty in Sandpoint and Coeur d'Alene. I am also the host of the North Idaho Business radio show and the North Idaho Arts & Adventure radio show broadcast on the North Idaho Talk Radio Network. Locally, we are heard on KSPT 1400 AM in Bonner and Kootenai counties and KBFI 1450 AM in Boundary County and Canada.

I hope you enjoy the videos in this series.

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic and Video Journal: Firedancers during Sandpoint Winter Carnival

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 06:33:05 -0800

This series of blog entries features the various seasons and events in and around Sandpoint, Idaho. Sandpoint, North Idaho, Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort, and Lake Pend Oreille have been featured in the national news repeatedly over the last several years. Autumn of 2011 found Sandpoint, Idaho being voted America's Most Beautiful Small Town by Rand McNally, and in the winter of 2011/2012 Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort was named the Best Ski Resort of the Season by USA Today/Rand McNally.

These pictures and videos are part of my hobbies of hiking, climbing, and biking. My pictures were featured prominently in this year's Sandpoint Visitor's Guide, and I have contributed pictures to all area Chambers of Commerce.

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: Scenes from Altitude Over Sandpoint & Lake Pend Oreille

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 18:59:11 -0800

I hope you enjoy the pictures and videos in this series.

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: January 2012, 4th Edition

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 06:35:20 -0800

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

Ethereal Lake Pend Oreille winter sunrise

Lady Liberty at Sandpoint City Beach

The Old Sandpoint High School-Now Sandpoint Events Center

The old Grainery in Sandpoint, Idaho

Lake Cocolalla Sundown

Distant Lake Pend Oreille

Pend Oreille River View from Baldy Mountain

Pend Oreille River Sunset

Entering Sandpoint

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: January 2012, 3rd Edition

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:28:07 -0800

This series of blog entries features the various seasons in and aroundSandpoint, Idaho.Sandpoint, North Idaho, Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort, and Lake Pend Oreille have been featured in the national news repeatedly over the last several years. Autumn of 2011 found Sandpoint, Idaho being voted America's Most Beautiful Small Town by Rand McNally, and in the winter of 2011/2012 Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort was named the Best Ski Resort of the Season by USA Today/Rand McNally.

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

Pend Oreille River Sunset

Morning mists over Lake Pend Oreille at Sandpoint City Beach

Lady Liberty on Lake Pend Oreille at Sandpoint City Beach

The railroad bridge leading into Sandpoint at City Beach

Sandpoint Winter Sunrise

Abandoned sailboat at Sandpoint City Beach

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: January 2012, 2nd Edition

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:41:53 -0800

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

Lake Cocolalla Ice Fishing

Sandpoint from Granite Ridge

Sunnyside between Sandpoint and Hope, Idaho

Sandpoint & Lake Pend Oreille in the distance

Lake Pend Oreille

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: January 2012, First Edition

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:32:54 -0800

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

Overlooking Lake Pend Oreille

The Pack River Flats with the Green Monarchs in the distance

The Green Monarchs

Moose grazing in Sandpoint, Idaho

The sun peaks through over the railroad bridge that leads into Sandpoint

The railroad bridge that leads to Sandpoint, Idaho over Lake Pend Oreille

The shores of Lake Pend Oreille

Eagle perched on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: December 2011

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:49:27 -0800

This series of blog entries features the various seasons in and around Sandpoint, Idaho. Sandpoint, North Idaho, Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort, and Lake Pend Oreille have been featured in the national news repeatedly over the last several years. Autumn of 2011 found Sandpoint, Idaho being voted America's Most Beautiful Small Town by Rand McNally, and in the winter of 2011/2012 Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort was named the Best Ski Resort of the Season by USA Today/Rand McNally.

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

Clouds roll over the Colburn Bowl on the back of Schweitzer Ski Resort

Sandpoint, Idaho - Land of Patriots

Woods Ranch - Famous meats north of Sandpoint, Idaho

Railroads are part of life in North Idaho

Sun sets over Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort

Windbag Marina in Sandpoint, Idaho - December 2011

Out on the ice at City Beach in Sandpoint, Idaho - December 2011

Winter Solstice - Sandpoint, Idaho

Ice tracks - Sandpoint, Idaho

Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort as seen from Sandpoint City Beach

Beach chair ready to soak up the Winter Solstice sun - Sandpoint, Idaho

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: November 2011, 2nd Edition

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:32:30 -0800

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

Entering Sandpoint from the Long Bridge over Lake Pend Oreille

The railroad bridge crossing Lake Pend Oreille into Sandpoint, Idaho

Schweitzer under the clouds as seen across Lake Pend Oreille from Sunnyside

Ubiquitous deer crossing Sunnyside road

Snowmass Alpacas off Rapid Lightning

One of many waterfalls on Rapid Lightning Creek

Another waterfall on Rapid Lightning Creek

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Seasons of Sandpoint, Idaho - A Photographic Journal: November 2011

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:14:32 -0800

The next several blog entries will feature the various seasons in and around Sandpoint, Idaho. Sandpoint, North Idaho, Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort, and Lake Pend Oreille have been featured in the national news repeatedly over the last several years. Autumn of 2011 found Sandpoint, Idaho being voted America's Most Beautiful Small Town by Rand McNally, and in the winter of 2011/2012 Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort was named the Best Ski Resort of the Season by USA Today/Rand McNally.

I hope you enjoy the pictures in this series.

Clark Fork River, November 2011

Schweitzer Mountain as seen from Derr Island, Clark Fork River, November 2011

Lake Pend Oreille Driftwood Collector

Derr Island, Clark Fork, Idaho

Marina at Hope, Idaho

Warren Island in Lake Pend Oreille

Park between Sandpoint and Hope, Idaho

1st Snowfall, Sandpoint, Idaho overlooking the Longbridge & Lake Pend Oreille

1st Snowfall, Sandpoint, Idaho

1st Snowfall, Sandpoint, Idaho overlooking the Longbridge & Lake Pend Oreille

1st Snowfall, Sagle Slough (Comeback Bay) across Lake Pend Oreille from Sandpoint

If you have questions about North Idaho Waterfront or Sandpoint Lake Pend Oreille property, give me a call.

Gary Lirette, REALTOR®
Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty
208-610-1384
garyplirette@gmail.com

or visit

www.SandpointID.net
www.SkiSchweitzer.net
www.LakePendOreille.org

Webcams from Sandpoint and Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort: Sandpoint Real Estate Blog

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:06:42 -0800

There are two new webcams broadcasting life in Sandpoint.

The first shows pics from First Avenue and the second from Gold Hill at this link: http://www.camscape.com/view/33718

Sandpoint Webcam from First Avenue

Sandpoint Webcam from Gold Hill

The second is at Selkirk Powder Company.

The Eagles Return to North Idaho: Sandpoint Real Estate Blog

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 17:10:29 -0800

The count of Eagles on Lake CdA so far is lower this year than the peak of 254 for 2010.

This article appeared in the CdA Press on December 12, 2011: Eagles have landed

Just a few years ago I posted this article about the Eagles of North Idaho: Eagles of North Idaho - Awe inspiring, and a reminder of our National Heritage

This video from 2007 really displays them well:

http://youtu.be/66ZdyDuFlZs

http://youtu.be/71I24uNajAA

Eagle perched along Lake Coeur d'Alene

Eagle hunting Kokoanee

Eagle as seen from Pend Oreille Bay Trail

Eagle in flight over Lake Pend Oreille

Lake Pend Oreille Eagle

Realtors Gary Lirette & Judy Delucchi, Sandpoint, Idaho

Downtown Sandpoint Hosts Events and Santa Claus: Sandpoint Real Estate Blog

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 16:52:58 -0800

Last week Marcy Timblin, Manager for the Downtown Sandpoint Business Association appeared on my radio show: North Idaho Business.

Marcy was on the show to talk about two things: What’s happening in Sandpoint for the month of December and the new movement called Genuine Sandpoint.

Marcy Timblin, Downtown Manager for the DSBA

Downtown hosts Santa Claus, special events

This holiday season, the jolly old gent otherwise known as Santa Claus will be making visits every week until Christmas at "The North Pole" on the Cedar Street Bridge. All children are invited to bring their adults and visit with Santa; there will be an opportunity for professional photos, too. Here's Santa's visitation schedule:

Every

Thursday, Friday and Saturday

, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., until ChristmaPlus,

every day Dec. 19-24

, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Also of note during the holidays, is Girls' Night Out, a special shopping social for ladies with special extended hours at many stores Friday, Dec. 9 till 8 p.m. Be sure to mark it on your calendar. The fellows get their own Men's Night Out the following Friday, Dec. 16 with store staffs on hand to prvide plenty of gift-giving ideas and advice.

And of course, every day and night through the holidays, the downtown is positively aglow with beautiful downtown Christmas lights, frequent strolling carolers, holiday programs at the Panida Theater, a plethora of unique boutiques, superb dining in Sandpoint's two-dozen-plus fine restaurants, and much more.

Questions, or for more information, click to e-mail DSBA's Downtown Manager Marcy Timblin at info@downtownsandpoint.com or call the Downtown Sandpoint Business Association at 255-1876.

We hope to see you in Downtown Sandpoint this Christmas season!

Genuine Sandpoint: Buy local, be local!

Why do your holiday shopping locally this year? Simply because it's smart, that's why! Not only do local merchants have a great selection of unique items you won't find in any big box store -- most often at competitive prices -- they offer real, personal service. And the money you spend with local businesses stays local, to lift our whole community.

In fact, those are just a few reasons. There's more to ponder before you head out on your Christmas shopping forays this year. Click to read these great stories:

'Genuine Sandpoint' reinforces reasons to buy local (PDF)
Groups launch 'Genuine Sandpoint' campaign (Daily Bee, 11/20/2011)
Genuine Sandpoint: Top 10 reasons to buy local
What'll it be this year... China or Sandpoint? (Daily Bee, 11/15/2011)
We're calling our buy local campaign Genuine Sandpoint. We hope all shoppers will stop to consider how and where they'll spend their hard-earned dollars this year -- and what's really the best deal for the money.
Want to get involved? Here are some resources:
- Use the Genuine logo in your promotions; click for PDF or JPEG
- Read this flyer for more information; click to download PDF
- Get in touch; call DSBA at 208-255-1876, or click to e-mail

State of the Real Estate Market for Sandpoint & North Idaho 2011

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 15:01:06 -0800

According to the Selkirk MLS, our market has a total of 2,677 various properties (condos, land, homes, timeshares) on the market.

Average Days on Market: 305

Total Price: $799,187,649

Closed Sales January 1, 2011 – December 8, 2011: $190,495,221

Total List Price: $206,855,029

That is 970 sales with an average Days on Market of 166.

These sales represent 92% of asking price.

There are an additional 125 properties Pending, representing another $29,736,360 in sales.

While historically this is roughly 100-200 below our averages during better years, it is significant considering that for 2010 we sold 940 for $200,536,119 in total sales, and in 2009 802 for a total of $181,738,748 for a year-to-year increase of 9.5%. By end of year, we should have also increased our percentages, showing a steady increase in sales.

Clearly land sales are lagging, and we are seeing, in some cases, prices we haven’t seen in a decade. Home Sales (Residential) made up 87% of closed sales so far for 2011 with an Average Price of $229,967. Again, this represents 92% of asking price. This information is especially helpful when advising buyers what to offer. Clearly there are bargain hunters out there, but for a seller to accept a deep discount is not the norm. There are very few homes being sold at 30, 40, or 50% off the asking price.

Why Are Sales Increasing in North Idaho?

Clearly sales are increasing. This is due in large part to the decrease, while incremental, in asking price. The Average Sold Price for homes in 2010 was $246,325. The Average Sold Price for 2009 was $262,783. We have actually seen price stabilization for most homes. Bank repos are still affecting the market skewing the numbers to look like our market is showing steady declines in value.

Another trend that is small but significant are the number of Days On Market: 146 for 2009, 158 for 2010, 166 for 2011.

How Is The Local Economy?

I host the North Idaho Business show on KSPT and KBFI. In the last year, I have interviewed twenty-six new businesses. Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort has had three successive record breaking years. High water impeded our lake activities this season because of high precipitation, but local businesses had earnings that allowed them to keep the open signs on. I managed the new Dover Bay Café (sic Dish Home Cooking) which had a fantastic opening season. I also am the Wine Buyer/Steward at our local gourmet grocer Yoke’s Fresh Market and the company had a record season. This Yoke’s is the #1 store in the chain and the top seller of wine regionally. I was able, on a day-to-day basis, to see people spending their hard-earned dollars.

So, anecdotally, the appearance is that things are getting better. The stats back that up. The Idaho Unemployment Rate fell to 8.8 percent, the lowest level in nearly two years. Bonner County’s rate is higher at 10.8%. This current figure has not yet taken into account winter ski season hiring by Schweitzer Mountain. Any way you look at it the figure is considerably better than the 16.1% we experienced at the height of the recession.

One thing that people don’t know about Sandpoint and Bonner County is that we are a manufacturing town. Companies like Coldwater Creek, Litehouse Foods, Thorne Research, Unicep Packaging, Encoder, EZDog, Quest Aircraft, and many others make up the majority of employment here, followed by Government, Education, then Tourism.

From firsthand knowledge through hundreds of interviews I can tell you that entrepreneurs are doing well in Sandpoint. Are they getting rich? The answer for most is probably not.

Employment and dollars earned is not the primary reason most of us live here though. When Buck Knives relocated to North Idaho, they did so not because of ease of facility or tax breaks, but because of quality of life. Living underneath one of the Top 25 Ski Resorts in the nation, along the shores of 148-square mile Lake Pend Oreille, it is the draw of the wonder of the land and the joy of the people that makes this place magical.

What these statistics show is that our market is improving, albeit slowly. Still, it is reassuring that it has been steady and forward moving.

I teamed with Judy Delucchi this year. In a little over twelve months I was able to bring in over $3 million in accepted offers, mostly waterfront. While this in not enough to make me feel like the slowdown is over, it isn’t as bad as in other places.

Add to that, my brokerage, Tomlinson Sotheby’s International Realty is by far the top real estate firm in our region.

Finding success in Sandpoint doesn’t happen by accident. We work hard and go the extra mile for our clients.

You should visit Sandpoint and see why the year Rand McNally named Sandpoint America’s Most Beautiful Small Town.

To learn more about Sandpoint and North Idaho visit www.SandpointID.net

To learn more about Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort visit www.SkiSchweitzer.net

If you are thinking about moving here or want to know more about our little slice of paradise, call Gary Lirette 208-610-1384 garyplirette@gmail.com

Gary Lirette & Judy Delucchi, Tomlinson Sotheby's International Realty

Wine of the Day - Apex Syrah: Sandpoint Blog

Gary Lirette-Sandpoint Real Estate (Inland Northwest Realty) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:48:24 -0700

Apex Syrah Was $24.68 and the New Great Lower Price!

$9.98

This great buy is one of our best values this year. This special buy in allows you to try one of the Great Syrahs from Washington State for a price we’ve never seen before. Salute!

Apex Cellars was launched in 1988 and has grown to be one of Washington's most respected wineries. Apex and Apex Ascent cover the spectrum from reserve-caliber, vineyard-designate wines to wines that be can beenjoyed everyday. Over the years, Apex Cellars has become known as a winery youcan trust - a producer of consistently outstanding wine that can be served andenjoyed with confidence.

Color is rich purple, almost opaque. Headyaromas of granite, smoky bacon and earthy black fruits with slight blackpepper. Palate is soft and generous with lush tannins and a persistent finish. Flavors of blackberry and licorice spice from start to finish. Ready to enjoy now!

See me at Yoke's in Sandpoint.

And for all your real estate needs, call me at 208-610-1384

Apex Syrah only $9.98 for a limited time at Yoke's Sandpoint