Selling Rural Boise Blog

Why Short Sales Fail In Kuna....Time!

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 19:32:24 -0500

Short sale listings contribute 35% of the active listings in Kuna. But in this year only 16% of the sold listingsare short sale listings.There are several reasons why short sales are difficult. One of the most frequently overheard complaint would be....long waits, causing the buyer to give up and look elsewhere.

Everyone dealing with short sales would do well to understand what is taking place behind the delays and how to address the most common causes.

#1 Lack Of Staff Many banks are simply short on staff and unable to keep up with growing demand. Make it easy on overwork workers in every way possible; not only will they appreciate the reduced work but it certainly helps to present our offer in the best light possible.

#2 Failure of the Homeowners/Real Estate Agent to Properly Handle Paperwork Keep the lines of communication open and help the homeowner provide the appropriate paperwork in a timely manner. While it might seem a bit obvious, don't expect every homeowner to have the motivation required to follow up even on something that is likely to help their own situation. Many people simple shut-down when overwhelmed.

#3 Believe it or not....Multiple Offers One of the main reasons for a lender to take their precious time before approving a short sale is to consider multiple offers.

#4 Lack of Other Offers! While entertaining multiple offers is more frequently the cause of delays when processing short sale offers, the lack of any other offers especially on an otherwise, "attractive" property may also result in longer approval times or outright procrastination on the part of the lender.

There are ways to elpyour short sale be a success! Knowledge and sing a team of skilled professioals is what I have found to be a winning combination.

If you live in the Kuna area and think you may need to do a short sale on your home, please give me a call. I have options for homeowners. Once you know what your options are, it will be easier for you to make the right decision.

Have You Ever Tried To Get Out Of Your Gym Membership?

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 15:32:38 -0500

Why do gyms get away with contractual agreements that require people to pay for 2 years to use their gym and unless you die or move, you can't change your mind? I can't think of another business run this way. It's because they all have the same strategy and the consumer has no choice!

Excessive gym dues and long contracts are the standard.I don't know how many times after joining, management changes and pretty soon there is an environment that I didn't sign up for. Or I joined, looking forward to some great classes to motivate me to move, and then find them to be uninspiring, without enough equipment or are down right dangerous.

What a breathe of fresh air at Freedom Fitness! No Contracts! Low membership monthly dues and sign on fees. Lots of top of the line quality equipment, daycare,tons of classes and helpful staff.

I love their motto....Freedom Fitness strives to give the greatest gift of all; that of good health.

The building quickly became too small, as the community drank in this wonderful opportunity like a cool drink.

Already they are looking to moving into a new larger building. I think this business will only get bigger and better.

My favorite class is the yoga class, run by a professional yogi, who does this for a living, not just to pick up some extra spending money. Everyone that joins quickly feels comfortable and welcomed. We even get an invite out to his farm to join his gracious wife and have a free class surrounded by the natural beauty of the farm. Only in the country!

Check out their website for more classes and info Kuna's Yoga Class

Help For Homeowners In Kuna Idaho

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 11:26:05 -0600

We are all watching the politics unfold, as the White house continues to unveil it's plan to help our struggling economy. Everyone is asking what's in it for me?

Many homeowners bought their home in Kuna within the last three years and have seen the value of the home decline below the amount of the loan. This is where I think most Kuna residences will benefit.

You may be qualified to refinance or modify your loan. Guidelines and more details will be available after March 4th.

Here is some interesting aspects I pulled off the The White House Blog

What help is available for borrowers who stay current on their mortgage payments but have seen their homes decrease in value?

Under the Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan, eligible borrowers who stay current on their mortgages but have been unable to refinance to lower their interest rates because their homes have decreased in value, may now have the opportunity to refinance into a 30 or 15 year, fixed rate loan. Through the program, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will allow the refinancing of mortgage loans that they hold in their portfolios or that they placed in mortgage backed securities.

I owe more than my property is worth, do I still qualify to refinance under the Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan?

Eligible loans will now include those where the new first mortgage (including any refinancing costs) will not exceed 105% of the current market value of the property. For example, if your property is worth $200,000 but you owe $210,000 or less you may qualify. The current value of your property will be determined after you apply to refinance.

Do I need to be behind on my mortgage payments to be eligible for a modification?

No. Borrowers who are struggling to stay current on their mortgage payments may be eligible if their income is not sufficient to continue to make their mortgage payments and they are at risk of imminent default. This may be due to several factors, such as a loss of income, a significant increase in expenses, or an interest rate that will reset to an unaffordable level.

How much will a modification cost me?

There is no cost to borrowers for a modification under the Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan. If you wish to get assistance from a HUD-approved housing counseling agency or are referred to a counselor as a condition of the modification, you will not be charged a fee. Borrowers should beware of any organization that attempts to charge a fee for housing counseling or modification of a delinquent loan, especially if they require a fee in advance.

This Month In Real Estate

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 09:54:03 -0600

This Month in Real Estate provides expert opinion and analysis on real estate trends across the nation. Short video with timely advice about selling and buying in today's market. Worth watching.

This month in Real Estate.

What's The News for Selling My Home In Kuna Idaho?

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 15:11:24 -0600

There is some good news. An unexpected improvement in home sales in December provided a rare dose of welcomed economic news amid so much gloomy news.

AS WITH ANY statistics, we need to look at the overall picture and that's why it is so hard to "time the market". By the time trends are developed, we may miss the best buying opportunity. Though this is encouraging, most are waiting to see if those numbers will continue to improve.

So what is happening in Kuna's market? I like to seperate our numbers from the rest of Ada county.

Kuna's sold numbers did improve, selling almost 24% more single family residential than Dec 2007. But what really surprised me was the ratio of new to existing that sold. 2007 saw almost 50-50. This December, almost 3x the number of existing homes sold compared to new.

The average sold price in Dec 2008 fell about 10% from $178,431 to 161,477.(Ada county, as a whole, experienced a 15% drop in average price)

No one likes to see their home lose that much value, but compared to my retirement accounts numbers..... real estate is still a pretty good investment.

Melba Affordable Custom Built

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 12:17:53 -0600

Photo Gallery

huge kitchen	upgraded trim	bright living room
	master bedroom	eating area
extra large garage	double vanities

Description

This quality constructed home was built with the homeowner in mind. 2x6 construction, CAT 5 wiring, and loads of storage. Bright open floor plan with upgraded trim and light fixtures. The large kitchen has tile backsplash, energy star appliances and plenty of hickory cabinets featuring roll out shelves,. Finished garage is extra large to accommodate truck and tons of storage. Energy efficient home with low –e windows making it easy to heat and cool. No neighbors across the street. Pride of workmanship shows throughout this home.

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	1.5
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	2008
Lot Size:	6500 sq ft
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Melba
Square Footage:	1266
Agent Name:	Sara Brosier
Broker:	Erica Hill
MLS #:	98388241

Location

11 Randolph Melba Idaho 83641

vFlyer Id: 2187196

Home With Acreage, Views and Privacy In Marsing

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 20:31:10 -0600

Photo Gallery

large living room	gorgeous views	efficient kitchen
master bedroom	master bathroom	spare bedroom
full guest bath	privacy and views

Description

Views! Privacy! Room to play, target shoot, ride quads, possible horse property. Adjacent to BLM but close to town, the river and shopping. Well maintained, efficient custom built home with upgraded details including central vac, water softener, and R/O water system. Tons of storage, 2 sheds and a huge well house. Enjoy the gorgeous views from either front or back patio. Shop has been started. Will discount if you finish. This home has everything plus lots of potential.

Features

Bedrooms:	2
Bathrooms:	2
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	1997
Lot Size:	4.35 acres
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Marsing
Square Footage:	1080
Agent Name:	Sara Brosier
Broker:	Erica Hill
MLS #:	98388591

Location

8148 US Hwy 95 Marsing Idaho 83639

vFlyer Id: 2184384

Realism About the Boise Market

Sat, 11 Oct 2008 15:38:16 -0500

Realism -- seeing the risks, having the courage to bear bad news, and being prepared for famine as well as plenty.

Realtors tend to be a very optimistic group. That’s our job, to encourage people to make wise decisions. So we have to find something good in every market or we will be out of business.

I enjoyed this article by Deanna Salazar and Kerry Brown. Sometimes facts can help put some perspective into the local market. Not that we aren’t being effected by Washington, but there are other things to consider when buying or selling in the Boise Market.

Deanna “Late Night Letterman” Salazar’s Top Ten Good Things About Today’s Economic Storm

10. National existing home sales up 7.4% year over year in August! Sold properties in Ada & Canyon Counties for Sept 08 = 784 compared to Sept 07 = 690! Good news!

9. Warren Buffet has confidence in the market investing 20 billion while endorsing the financial rescue plan stating it would maximize benefits for the housing and financial markets.

(When Warren Buffet talks… everybody listens!)

8. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the mother and father of mortgage loans for all Americans are still open for business with little or no major changes in operations.

7. Your money in the bank is now insured by the FDIC for up to $250,000.00.

6. Gasoline is back down to merely extortionate prices from obscenely extortionate pricesJ

5. Real Estate is on sale, folks! Just a few years ago buyers were scrambling over each other to pay $150 or more per sq ft for tons of homes. Do you know how many similar homes are killer deals at $85-$95 per sq ft now—same type of home? They’re all over the place! Buy while we’re still having the sale!!

4. Property Virgin? A $7,500.00 tax credit can now be yours when buying your 1^st home!

3. Think there aren’t any loans out there? Nobody can qualify? Simply not true. With as little as 3% down, FHA limits are up to over $300K and 0% downpayment programs for VA borrowers up to $417K!

2. Capitol Hill and Wall Street bigwigs are exposed as blubbering hypocrites daily! J

And the Number 1 good thing (even in our stormy Oct 2008 economy…..)

Each day we can….get hot water and electricity at our fingertips. We can travel from the Atlantic to the Pacific without showing identification and passports at each state, we have a bigger selection of food in our stores and restaurants than most countries could imagine, 95% of Americans currently have a job, we can read what we want, enjoy a movie, talk on our cell phones, push a button and depend on emergency services to help us and send our children to school without fear of bombings and militias. Not so bad, huh?

Tags: economy, Boise, Real+estate

Corn Mazes, Fall Fun In Kuna Idaho

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 17:07:48 -0500

Getting lost in a Corn Maze is a very big attraction in these parts, evidence by having two wonderful selections almost right next to each other. So I thought I’d better get some first hand knowledge to add to my blog. (that’s one great thing about blogging, you have an good excuse to have fun)

The Corn Maize is located in Kuna Idaho on Meridian Rd pass Lake Hazel. First I need to get a coupon off their website (much to my kids dismay) http://www.idahomaze.com/ This website is great! Even has pictures of past mazes. And video of the field of screams that will really whet your appetite for fright.

The field of screams opens in October on Friday and Saturday nights. Guess I’ll have to wait. The other events are geared for the real young, of which I don’t have any yet.

The other great corn maze in the area to choose from is on Linder Road. Turn West on Lake Hazel off of Meridian Rd and go to the next road (Linder) and turn north.

7165 S Linder Rd, Meridian, ID 83642. Phone: (208) 371-0222. Email them at: sherrie@linderfarms.com. Pumpkins are usually available in October. Open: Monday to Friday 5pm - 8pm Saturday 11am to 8pm Opening September 24th, 2005 through Halloween

Corn maze, pumpkins, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, child-sized haybale maze, and really fun tractor-pulled hay rides.

Then while your at it, stop at Rice Farms on Meridian Rd, just pass the Corn Maize and pick up some wonderful, organic produce. The Honey Crisp Apples are my favorite.

Actually Fall is my favorite. Enjoy

Tags: Corn, Maze, Kuna

Kuna Land For Sale

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:58:46 -0500

The fastest growing segment of the Treasure Valley’s population is the unincorporated area of Ada County. (Kuna Melba News Vol 26,No1) Growing a whopping 5.7%.

There is plenty of opportunity to own your piece of Idaho in the Boise area.

So now is a great time to consider a solid investment…land. Check out my favorite source of land advice Stock vs Land Investments

As the city of Kuna completes it’s new comprehensive plan, opportunities to invest in this area that is experiencing steady growth will be prime. Buy now, enjoy, and reap the financial benefits later.

One of the fastest growing rural communities in the Treasure Valley, Kuna Idaho, is boasting a 4 percent growth rate in 2007. Located South of Boise and Meridian, it has easy access to the interstate. Plus a great school system, not much traffic, low crime and a great country atmosphere.

As the Treasure Valley grows, developers and cities look to areas that have the best land deals. As the Boise area grows, there is one option and that is to come south. Boise has already approved subdivisions east as far south as Kuna.

With the proposed Kuna Mora bypass, planned for sometime in the future, the land south of the interstate will be prime for even more growth.

So don’t miss this great piece of land for sale. (the real reason for this post) Locust Grove

Here is one opportunity to buy now, wait for Kuna to complete it’s comprehensive plan, apply for a one time split, and sell off half of your investment for almost as much you bought it for. Land For Sale

You have secured an investment for little and will then hold on to it as it grows for your retirement.

How To Help Your Kids Get A House

Sat, 16 Aug 2008 17:27:34 -0500

Getting a gift in the form of cold, hard cash to buy real estate is a wonderful thing. Gift funds are a common way parents help their kids buy a home, but there are certain requirements to follow to ensure the gift transfer goes smoothly.

What exactly is a cash gift? Technically, it is a transfer of funds from one party to another without any expectation of being paid back. This non-repayment factor is a key element because lenders can’t accurately calculate debt ratios if the gift is in fact a loan. How do lenders determine this? The “givers” are required to sign an affidavit stating that the funds being given are a gift with no repayment expectations.

Who can give a gift? Gifts can come from family members (parents, siblings or grandparents), non-profit agencies, local or state agencies, churches, domestic partners and trade unions.

The party that furnishes the gift must show an “ability to give”, which means they have the money available in an account they own. This is documented by providing account statements showing the funds are available. Finally, it must also be documented that the gift funds were transferred from one party to the next and the lucky recipients (and future home buyers) must provide a bank statement showing the gift was received.

While the need for documentation might sound heavy-handed, the truth is lenders need to take every precaution to make sure that the “gift” isn’t a “loan.” So if you know what the lender expects ahead of time, the gift transfer can be seamless. Just remember, financial gifts over a certain limit may have income tax implications, so be sure and consult with an accountant or tax specialist before getting the mortgage process underway.

One final note to consider. Conventional loans differ from FHA programs in their requirements for reporting gifts to be used toward the purchase of a home. Buyers using conventional financing need to prove that they have at least 5 percent of their own funds in the purchase transaction. However, that requirement is waived if the gift represents more than 20 percent of the purchase price. The FHA loan, on the other hand, merely requires the buyers have at least $500 of their own money at closing, regardless of the amount of the gift.

Written by David Reed, Texas-based mortgage banker with more than 20 years experience

and author of Mortgages 101 and Mortgage Confidential.

It's OK To Change Your Mind About Crimson Point's Pool

Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:42:22 -0500

To tell you the truth I was a little afraid of what Crimson Point’s pool would look like once it was put in. That’s the disadvantage of buying before amenities are built.

But I must say, so far I’m impressed! This pool in Crimson Point has been long in coming but looks like they are doing a great design job.

It’s hard to tell yet what the inside of the clubhouse will look like, but the pool is huge!! There is even a wading pool for babies. I can also see a fireplace in the covered patio area.

I think this amenity will be well used and help to set this subdivision apart from everything else in Kuna.

I know this took a lot of work from the Pool committee (made up of resident volunteers) and Corey Barton for generously forwarding funds from future homes, in order to make this happen.

I live in Crimson Point and know there are wonderful people making up this neighborhood. There has been some frustration with the housing market controlling some aspects of our community and understandably causing some bad feelings. But working together, I’m confident we can move forward and continue improving.

This nice addition plus the new Crimson Point Elementary school, should not only make Crimson Point a better place to live, but also keep our home values from deteriorating.

I’ll keep you posted.

Tags: crimson+point, pool, Corey+Barton

Happy Cows: They're In Idaho Too!

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:27:23 -0500

Imagine you are about to tour a farm where cattle are being raised from birth to market on high quality home grown grass and grains.

Welcome to Vogel Farms, a family operated farm located in Kuna. Their specialty is all natural, grain fed pork, beef,eggs and coming soon, poultry.

Unlike animals raised in a feedlot, the cattle have never been confined in close quarters, implanted with hormones, treated routinely with antibiotics or fed any questionable feed ingredients.

They live a good life! Looking out at the fields, you see the cattle, heads down, slowly mowing their way across the pasture.

All of their meat is processed at Meridian Meat and Sausage and is USDA approved. The meat is fresh frozen so you only get the great taste of the pork and beef rather than a mouthful of preservatives!

The chickens are free range (with lots of protection from predators) and the eggs have a deep, natural colored yolks with a real egg taste!

I can personally attest to the great quality and value you will get at this farm. And I’m looking forward to some wonderful chicken and turkey to choose from this fall.

Vogel Farms

Tags: vogel, beef, pork, kuna

The Place To Be On Saturday Morning In Kuna Idaho: The Farmers Market

Sat, 19 Jul 2008 16:48:57 -0500

The market was full and teaming with locals this morning. And as I found out today, I didn’t get there early enough!!

I wandered in about 11:00 (Opens 9–12) and they had sold out on the most popular items. Tree ripened apricots were gone and so were the first green bean crop. I should know better, with the increase in popularity of this great local market, I need to get moving faster in the morning.

There was still plenty of fresh produce left, baked goods (bless those ladies that turn on the stove in the summer), eggs, lamb, beef, pork and lots of fun crafts. Plus Vogel’s Farms are always cooking up something scrumptious and different.

Today the market featured a group of Irish dancers. Local talent always adds some ambiance to the event.

The market gets better and better every year and people are starting to discover the great produce and fun. Every week promises something different to try and enjoy.

It’s a great place to run into some neighbors and have a cup of joe at the local coffee shop, relax and enjoy the day.

Next week there will be more green beans and perhaps the first crop of Peaches! Better go early.

Kuna’s Farmers Market is found under the big flag in the Sandstone Plaza off of 4^th St. Or if you take Main into downtown, just locate the flag and follow the road to the flag.

Tags: farmers, market, kuna, produce

Couch Potatoes In Idaho? Homeowners Take Note!

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:41:47 -0500

Summertime brings back memories roaming the fields and woods of our country neighborhood. Sun baked days with friends and siblings, using every muscle climbing trees, and playing ball.

I feel very blessed to have those memories, things are definitely different in this day and age.

But when we think about owning a home, don’t forget to consider what the kids and adults will do for fun and get them off that cushy couch!?

(Photo credits: aspheries)

I think the biggest challenges for recreation happens in the suburban subdivisions that are springing up in the country and suburbs. Unless you live close to featured recreational lands, you will need to commute to the nearest water/fishing/park/hiking ect…So I’m glad when I see developers address this issue.

The latest trend in planned developments have been to include amenities the whole family can enjoy, going beyond just building homes to creating lifestyles.

The more a subdivision has to offer in addition to quality housing, the greater the likelihood a prospective buyer will choose that neighborhood over another.

In Atlanta Georgia,subdivisions are being built around water parks… definitely a step beyond. Sounds like fun to spend the evening floating the lazy river rather than watching reruns.

Subdivisions being built around golf courses is something that’s been happening for years, but golfing is not always considered an family affair.

I just visited a new development in Meridian, Hazelwood Village. Amenities include a huge pool, clubhouse, walking and bike paths, volleyball and basketball courts, and a one acre park. The idea is that once you get home, you want to stay and enjoy the community you live in rather than get back in the car to find a place to get together and enjoy the great Idaho weather.

In Kuna, when the new developments started moving into town, land was cheap and homes started filled in the edges of town. But as land becomes more expensive, homes started getting closer and closer. So the city started requiring some open space and tot lots in the subdivisions. Kuna is small enough that it’s entire population as a whole is one community. Everyone enjoys the kids athletic programs, summer fun at the library, community events and the local outdoor activities.

But as Kuna grows, I hope the developers see a chance to be different from all the other subdivisions in Kuna and offering real amenities for the kids and adults right in their own neighborhood. ( I think tot lots are very limiting and underutilized!) There are presently three subdivisions that have swimming pools, water features and clubhouses. That’s a good start. But some people don’t like water, and what about the winters? Let’s think this through.

With gas prices increasing, it will be an important consideration when purchasing your next home. Will your evening and weekend activities involve getting back into the car to get to a place you and you kids will ultimately enjoy life, or are you living where you can relax and enjoy your free time? A place where your children will be encouraged to get out and enjoy their summers?

What amenities does your neighborhood have that you and your family enjoy? I would love to hear what’s happening in other parts of the country.

Tags: recreation, community, Idaho

Treasure Valley Fireworks: Something for everyone

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 11:53:54 -0500

Melba– Very popular, large display of fireworks draws spectators from all over the valley. Starts at dusk centered around the high school. Staged in this small, country town helps the traffic to disperse quite quickly, though it’s always nice not to be in a rush. Great small town atmosphere with a big parade in the morning. They do have events through out the day, a craft fair, tractor racing and good food. Though not much shade to whittle the day away until the fireworks. I personally would not plan on staying all day but return for the evening events. Melba Fireworks

Eagle– Great chance to meet all your neighbors at Eagle’s fireworks display. Music prior to the fireworks will be a great background for your picnic in the shade of the trees at Eagle Island State Park. Eagle Fireworks

Boise– Plans to be bigger and better than last year. This fireworks display is played to music (simulcast on 107.1 K-Hits.) so bring your radio. Also part of the festival includes pancake breakfast and a parade. Centers around Ann Morrison park, starts at dusk (10:20?) More traffic to content with so plan on after fireworks activities to allow the traffic to thin. Plenty to do in downtown Boise until the fireworks. Boise Fireworks

Tags: Fireworks, Boise, Melba

How Are Gas Prices Effecting Rural Residential Living?

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 12:47:53 -0500

“More and more Americans will choose to be middle-class in the country than scrape-by, oil poor in the suburbs.”

An interesting statement made by Curt Seltzer, land consultant and author of How To Be a DIRT-SMART Buyer of Country Property www.curtis-seltzer.com.

In his recent article Sooner Than Later We Will Change, he theorizes why he thinks people will choose to live in the country even when gas prices reach $8.00 a gal.

Having talked with those choosing to move out of Kuna and those that are looking to buy in Kuna, it’s all a matter of perspective and choice.

So I am taking a poll. I’m curious what people thing about gas and rural living.

Home prices are relatively thousands less than comparables in Boise. So there is the choice of paying for taxes and housing versus paying for gas. The average price for a 2000 sq ft home in Boise is $23,000 more than Kuna.

Living in Boise also could involve driving to social events, kids sports, and shopping that takes you all over the city. You would avoid the drive into town everyday but whether you would do more driving if you lived there…..?

Usually small towns mean things are centrally located and within a short drive or even close enough for a bike trip or walk.

So even though people in small rural settings don’t like the idea of their towns getting a Walmart, industry or changing too much, Kuna could benefit greatly with the addition of some shopping and jobs!!

Other options being tossed around is the need for public mass transit opportunities for those that do travel to Boise. As the Kuna Melba news reported last week, there has been a steady increase in participation of the ACHD commuteride.

There is also been talk of companies going to 4 day work weeks and telecommunicating to reduce driving. Smart!

So what do you think? Are people willing to live in a more economical town where everything is close, driving less while you are here. Choosing to working out of their home, carpooling, and combining trips to help make it affordable enough to enjoy and live in a rural community? I would love some feedback.

Picture taken by Neato Coolville See more of his pictures

Crimson Point: Potential To Be Something Different

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 11:49:24 -0500

One of the nicest subdivision in Kuna, Crimson Point offers mid price homes(average price $200,000) in a community that supports a family friendly atmosphere. Since the new

elementary school is located in the middle of the subdivision, parents love the convenience of having their kids so close to home. Plus the school has attracted lots of families with children close to the same age. Talking with neighbors, they love having children for their kids to play with and a peaceful, safe family atmosphere to live in. Some amenities that may be coming ….

1. There has always talk of a swimming pool but with the turn down in the market, there have been delays in the start of this long awaited project . Recently earthmoving machinery has been seen in the subdivision with some promise of a pool this summer. Everyone is keeping their fingers crossed.

2. Crimson Point borders Indian Creek and the land over the bridge was donated to the city for a park. It will be a nice addition someday when this park gets developed and there is a place to enjoy the surrounding beauty within walking distance of every home in Crimson Point.

3. If the City of Kuna is able to carry through on their plans, someday this community will be connected to a green belt and there should be wonderful biking and walking paths along the creek into town. But that all takes time and money to complete.

(Picture of Boise Green Belt taken by Madhu Muraleedharah More Pics )

Sales are still brisk in this subdivision if you are talking about new construction. The builder has been able to cut his prices substantially to continue building. Any resale homes that are being sold are also cutting their prices to compete with market prices. There are currently 18 active listings, 10 sold in the last 3 months. The absorption rate (5.4 months) which is much better than the average for Kuna (8.9 months)

Factor out the new construction and there are presently 6 homes for resale with an absorption rate of 12 months. Many homes have gone on the market and have expired without a sale because they could not compete with present prices.

Crimson Point is about halfway built and Corey Barton builds a well built home with a wide range of upgrades. The homes have good design with every house coordinated but different. Unfortunately the landscaping is very generic and contributes to a cookie cutter appearance (in my opinion).

As people get settled in and the subdivision is finished, this should turn out to be a good community in Kuna to invest in. If you are looking to purchase in Crimson Point, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed if you intend on staying for a while. .

For Sale By Owner In Kuna Country

Sun, 15 Jun 2008 15:54:09 -0500

This home for sale by owner has one great feature that should help attract potential buyers. It has great curb appeal. Located in a wonderful Kuna neighborhood, these owners made an effort to add uniqueness and beauty to the property.

So often these things are not considered until it’s time to put the house on the market. Unfortunately, shade takes years to develop and is a treasured addition in most yards.

I love working with clients that have beautiful yards. Usually if the grass is green, weeds are pulled and some beauty has been added, it’s a good sign the rest of the house has also been maintained.

A modest home at a modest price begs to be viewed. Let me know if you would like to see the inside. I would love to show it to you and help you find the perfect home.

Home With Acreage

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 22:05:42 -0500

Country Living With Acreage

Location: Meridian, Idaho

Don't miss this opportunity to own a home with one acre in the Kuna School district. Perfect for hobbies, 4-H projects, animals or storage needs. No CCR's. Well built home has had it's pre-inspection done and all necessary repairs finished. Move in condition. Has driveway for future barn, RV storage, or dream shop. Easy access to interstate or the future Ten Mile exchange (2009). At this price, in this condition, your buyers won't be disappointed!!

Information

Contact Information

Sara Brosier

208-697-4111

Contact Reply Form

Forward to a Friend

View Other Flyers

Pricing

Asking Price: $219,900.00

Additional Pricing Information: Quick close possible

Property Location

4460 W Columbia
Meridian, Idaho 83642
View Map

Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 1.5

Year Built: 1975

Lot Size: 1 acre

Garage Size: 2

School District: Kuna

Square Footage: 1405

Agent Name: Sara Brosier

Broker: Keller Williams Realty

MLS #: 98353059

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Dishwasher

Microwave

Trane high efficiency furnace

Trane high efficiency AC

Newer 50 gal hot water heater

Exterior Amenities

Patio

Fenced Yard

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (9 Photos)

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 1593066

What Does Kuna Have Plenty Of?

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 19:41:51 -0500

May 2008 Kuna has 242 building lots being advertised on the Multiple Listing Service.

23 of those building lots are not in subdivisions.

Kuna is still growing and people are still choosing to drive to this community to live. How long will we have this kind of supply, even if sales picked up? I’m thinking we will have an abundance to choose from for a few years. Even if these sell, there is lots more land just waiting to be developed.

Subdivisions in Alphabetical Order

Applewood– One of the newest with a few houses built for show. It is located off Hubbard/ Ten Mile North of Kuna. Lots start at $54,900.Applewood

Arrowrock Ranch– Large almost Acre Lots South East of Kuna. Luxury Custom Built Homes. Stricter CCR’s. Only a couple lots left $104,900

Belmont Heights–Nampa address, Kuna Schools, 1 acre lots perfect for horses. Only a few lots left, some with daylight basement possibilities . Located north of victory on McDermott. $162,500

Denali Heights– One of the most exciting subdivisions in Kuna, large lots with upscale homes. Swimming pool and city park add to the nice things this community offers. Located North of Kuna on Hubbard. $75,000 Denali Heights

Iron Horse– Luxury homes and large acre lots. North of Kuna west of Ten Mile on Columbia $189,000

Mineral Springs– North part of Kuna, close to schools and conveniences. Large Lots and promises of water features and walking paths. $60,000 Mineral Springs

Placerville– 62 lots available in this new subdivison south side of Kuna off of Ten Mile. No building going on yet. $70,000

Regal View– Two lots available. 2.5 acre for 250K and 4.74 acres for 400K Small subdivision on a bluff over looking Kuna on its south side off of King Rd

SchoolHouse– Only 20 lots left and priced to sell! $37,000! South of Kuna off of School Rd,.School House

Sutter’s Mill – Just a small part of this subdivision is not built out.Advantage being you can see what this neighborhood looks like. Custom built homes. South of Kuna off of Ten Mile. $79,900

WillowGlenn – Close to Schoolhouse subdivision, South side of Kuna off of School Rd. $39,900.

What has sold this year in Kuna? 42 Lots have sold or are pending this year. One in Denali Heights, one in Willow’s Glenn, and 2 in Applewood.

The majority of lots are pending in the Schoolhouse Sub (19) and 17 lots sold to CBH homes for building in Crimson Point

New construction has slowed in Kuna. But you can be assured that we will always be growing and have need for more housing.

Tags: subdivisions, Kuna, building+lots

Google Street View Is Available In Most Of The Ada County

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 17:32:10 -0500

Internet users who click on the "Street View" box on Google Maps (maps.google.com), will be able to peek at images from streets in the Boise and surrounding communities including Kuna. The views were stitched together from images taken by Google employees over the past year from cars and vans equipped with cameras.

The feature, which already captures street scenes more than 15 cities across the country, has become popular among people planning vacations, searching for shops or restaurants, or checking out landmarks such as Wrigley Field in Chicago or the Empire State Building in New York

Now it can be used to check out a neighborhood when considering a move to a new community. This is a great tool to use to see what is around the house you are looking at. Some things do not show up on the video that the real estate agent advertises with for a reason.

Of course this is just another tool, and does not take the place of actually being there. I noticed on our street it must have been on a very hot day in the middle of the summer. It did not capture the best part of the day.

There were complains about privacy issues, everything from photos of recognizable men entering adult bookstores to an image of a cat in a window has shown up on street views.

"We take privacy concerns seriously," said Stephen Chau, product manager for Google Maps. "All these images are taken on public streets. It's exactly what you could see walking down the street."

This is another good reason to keep the front of our homes in tip top shape. If I would have known they were in my neighborhood we would’ve fixed that dead spot in our front lawn! Now when we list our house, that dead spot will glare out at any inquisitive customers that use this google feature.

At least I wasn’t standing in my robe on the front porch!

The service covers only certain streets and neighborhoods in the cites where it's now available, although in some locations, such as the Treasure Valley, the majority of streets have been photographed. Google plans eventually to extend Street View to cities and towns of all sizes worldwide.

Tags: maps, Kuna

What Is Rural Residential In Ada County?

Fri, 16 May 2008 11:37:40 -0500

I love to sell dirt! There is something about helping clients that are looking for a little land to play with that I can relate to.

I grew up on my Dad’s hobby farm. He was a farmer’s son and it was in his blood to raise his food and spend his free time tilling the soil and feeding his family. The hard, back breaking work was never discussed, it was just part of our lives.

But it does get in your blood. I love the smell of fresh turned dirt. And I’m always sneaking my husband’s truck to fill up with good rich well composted cow manure.

So it’s easy for me to connect when people call looking for a house with a little land too.

But what is rural living in this neck of the woods?

My definition of rural is defined as a community (that could include a city) of less than 20,000 where the majority of the local income is agricultural. So Kuna and Star are the only towns in Ada county that I would considered rural and they will probably outgrow that definition in 10 years.

Suzie Benkstein from Emmett Idaho, defines rural as an area with no bright lights, not a lot of traffic, quiet, where you can ride bikes and you can see the stars. I like her definition.

There are still plenty of larger acreage lots within Ada county that are not located in a defined rural community. You may have more road traffic, can’t see the stars all the time or have to put up with more noise, but they definitely meet the requirements for most people that want to raise animals, gardens, or numerous other reasons people need more land.

Rural living is completely different from urban living. You deal with different issues, it’s easy to get involved in the community, entertainment is very different, and it’s easier to give. Community Giving

Of course that’s only if you like that social interaction. You can be isolated and private in the country if that is what you need.

I think people get discouraged when they move to a rural community for the cheap land or housing, build or buy their dream home and then decide they don’t like driving all the time into the city to do the things they were use to doing with their free time or to conduct business.

My office is in Boise but I like being here in Kuna. I like dealing with people that like rural communities and know what that means. And if they are relocating, I make sure I understand what kind of community fits their needs before I start showing them homes.

This is my envision of someone that would enjoy living in a rural community. They enjoy quietness, don’t care for crowds, are OK with a slower pace, only go to the mall if necessary, they lift their heads to take in the smells of the country and they can’t wait for the weather to straighten around to venture out to do yard chores. Then rural living is probably something you would enjoy.

Looking For A Home With Acreage In The Kuna School District?

Mon, 12 May 2008 20:54:35 -0500

So you’re searching for a home with a little bit of land for your horses, kids or for your peace of mind. And you really want to keep the kids in the Kuna Schools.

So you look in the Kuna area right?

You could be missing lots of great properties if you limit your search to a Kuna address. The Kuna School District is very large and covers property with a Nampa, Meridian and even Boise addresses.

As a matter of fact some of the nicest subdivisions with 1–4 acre lots are not in Kuna.

Map of School Boundary

Larger acre lots tend to be West of Kuna into the Nampa area. Some great equestrian subdivisions, like Aram Estates, Belmont Heights, and Lexington Meadows are in the Kuna School District but are in Canyon county with a Nampa address.

Some areas north of Columbia Rd as far as Lake Hazel and in some areas even further north, have a Meridian address but the kids attend Kuna. Danskin, Chisum Valley, Saddle Ridge and numerous small subdivisions with 1 acre or larger properties are scattered north of Kuna.

Around the Boise Ranch Golf course you will find various properties within the city of Boise but the kids attend Kuna Schools.

So if you really want to be sure you are seeing all your options, start with an agent that is familiar with this area.

When you search for your piece of Idaho, be sure you use criteria that is most important. If it is the school district, leave the city names out of the search. If you don’t want to live in a subdivision, there are ways to eliminate those in your search too. That way you will be seeing all the options that are important to you.

Tags: kuna, school, acreage

The Ten Mile Interchange: Smart Growth Award

Mon, 05 May 2008 13:20:58 -0500

A new interchange is needed at Ten Mile Road to access the Interstate, relieve traffic congestion, improve emergency response times to the area, and provide an additional north-south arterial through western Ada County

The City of Meridian has some very exciting plans for the Ten Mile Interchange that not only involves traffic but the entire scope of the community development.

The comprehensive plan for the area surrounding the future Ten Mile Interchange has been awarded a 2007 Grow Smart Idaho award for Policy and Planning by Idaho Smart Growth. This annual competition recognizes projects that use smart growth principles to encourage vibrant communities .

Map of comprehensive plan for Ten Mile area

The City’s hope is that this plan will allow for all the intricate parts of a community, including recreation,green spaces, commercial, and residential to work together and shape the outcome of this area. Hopefully resulting in an end product that will benefit its property owners and residents, and the community as a whole.

Of course this will involve change to an area that has been able to avoid change for quite sometime. The quiet country side will now be a outlet for the increase in traffic and I’m sure the citizens are not looking to be part of that solution. With this smart growth plan there is hope that this area will increase in value and not just increase in problems.

So many times these road improvements goals are just to solve a traffic problem. I think the City of Meridian did a good job of looking at the potential for development and capturing that issue before it became a unplanned hodge podge. Requiring developers to fit into their plan instead of the city having to work around the developers plans. Smart!

Tags: Ten+Mile+Interchange, Traffic, Ada+county