Boise Idaho Real Estate >> Agent & Marketing Specialist

999 S. Pelican Meridian, ID. 83642-RE Listed Again... SOLD AGAIN!!!

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:16:07 -0500

Just Listed and Priced to Sell... Oh, how I love these!

A perfect place to start or invest for only $164,900 Newly carpeted 3 bedroom 2 bath with a split bedroom design.

With the Newer Refrigerator included this one is clean, cute, and Move In Ready...

With the Living Room and a Bonus Room there is plenty of Room for All.

Fully fenced Back Yard with full automatic sprinklers and deck. Have an RV or Boast? We got you covered. Plenty of room on the side for storage.

This is a Great Buy in a good location. Nothing left to do but move in.

Foreclosure Help in Idaho and How to Find It

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 18:00:42 -0500

If you find yourself in a situation that so many find themselves in today and are facing the possibility of foreclosure, and just don't know where to turn, and just need some HELP. This is a good place to start.

A new website was launched on Sept. 8 2007 to assist those in Idaho who may have been affected by the changes in the lending market and those who may be facing possible foreclosure.

Introducing http://www.protectingidahohomes.com/

This website is filled with information about How to find Help, Advice, Who to call, and numerous other resources and publications to help guide you, the consumer to get back on your feet.

Use the website to find resources that can educate you about the available options and can connect you to someone who can help.

This is a wonderful source of information for Idaho that is rich in content and education on how to protect your home or navigate your way through the options you may have while in the foreclosure process.

If you need further information please don't hesitate to get in contact with me.

www.LiveInIdaho.net

Cheers to you, Cheers to me!

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Sat, 01 Sep 2007 16:09:25 -0500

In today's market for some the closings are fewer and far between. What used to be is no longer. Change is inevitable.

But... not all things have to change. I remember last year when business was up, the investors were in full throttle mode, and sales came about a whole lot easier. Closings were a relatively frequent occurrence.

When ever I had a closing I would always invest some of my earnings back into my business and I would reward myself with a REALLY NICE bottle of wine. Well in 2006 you could say I had built up a nice collection of wines from the fruit of my labor.

Fast forward to 2007...

Well my wine rack is rather empty and I have been saving a few choice bottles for a special occasion. I did have two closings this month and I made my trip down to A New Vintage Wine Shop and purchased a couple of bottles. I always try something new along with a favorite. Again, change is good.

I continue to reward myself for a job well done. I continue to invest in my business.

Remember to celebrate your accomplishments, reward yourself and your business however you see fit.. Cheers!

Active Rain + Lead + Listing = SOLD!

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 17:34:16 -0500

Today marks a mile stone and a first me since joining Active Rain back in April.

I remember getting an invitation from one of my clients that I sold a home to last year. Yes, you heard me correctly, a client... Maria Lechner who also happens to be a stager here in the Meridian area of Idaho is the one who I have to thank for introducing me to Active Rain.

On July 18^th I secured my first listing from Active Rain on a little 3 bedroom 2 bath home located in the South West section of Boise Idaho. With a great location, and motivated, realistic, and willing sellers, we were under contract in just 14 days. Gotta love that...

The negotiations were relatively easy with a little give and take from both sides. All parties were working towards the common goal of getting the home sold, isn't that how it is supposed to work?

Today we have officially funded and recorded! SOLD!

The buyer is moving in with her two boys and is starting her life over.

My clients can relocate East and start looking for property with their agent BeBe Hitz, in Idaho Falls whom I referred them to through Active Rain. Another seller should get their home sold in Idaho Falls and so on and so on and so on.

Just trying to do my best to make the market go round. NEXT

Boise State Broncos… Back to the Smurf Turf

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 15:46:43 -0500

Well this week starts another season for the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl Champions of 2007 the Boise State Bronco's. Who could possibly forget quite possibly the best bowl game in history on New Years Day 2007 when the underdogs of Boise State Broncos defeated the Oklahoma Sooners in overtime with a 43-42 victory stunner!

Can the Cinderella Story Boise State Bronco’s have another stellar football season? Well the locals here in Boise are willing to take that bet. Ranked 23, Boise State opens their 2007-2008 football season against Weber State this Thursday night 7:00 pm at home here on the famous Blue "Smurf Turf".

What will the season bring? Hopefully another bowl birth!

4011/4013 Glendale Boise Idaho 83703

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 17:33:52 -0500

Investors Dream... Truly Turnkey Unique Duplex. With Built In Tenants both of which would like to stay. This custom 3 bedroom 2 bath duplex has a lot to offer. Set back off of the street situated on a "Flag Lot" for privacy and quiet, this is an ideal investment at $339,000 for somone looking for that something special. Location, Location, Location, couldn't ask for anything better... Near everything, close to downtown, shopping, schools, etc.

2 Unique floor plans...

4011 Glendale has the Master on the main floor 4013 Glendale has the Master Up. Plenty of parking in the garage & out front.

Both units come with Refrigerators, Washer & Dryers. Large bedrooms, Nice Kitchens, Gas fireplaces, X-tra touches & Nice finish work. Ample storage both inside and out private back yards that are fully fenced, and mature landscaping. Built in 2004 with quality craftsmanship. Architectural Roof, water softeners, full sprinklers, extra insulation, and much more.

Changes in the Industry... What are you going to do about it?

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 14:46:53 -0500

With all of the recent media frenzy in regards to Real Estate and the Lending industry it has changed the way many of us do business.

I for one am taking further steps to insure that my buyers & sellers best interest is not only looked out for but that I take the initiative to look deep, second guess, and head off any problems that I have the slightest inclination that something may be going astray. Better to be extremely cautious than try to explain your way out of a bad situation latter.

Make it a best practice to connect, and reassure your clients in every step of the transaction. This is the direction that the industry has taken and we need to adapt, adjust, and accommodate the best we know how. Make sure that you let your team (assistants, lenders, escrow officers, home inspectors etc.) what you are doing, changing, and expect as you change the way you are doing business. Being proactive and embracing the "New Industry" will help you avoid falling into Crisis Management Mode.

Here is an example of what one of my team members (lender with Countrywide where the loan was being obtained) sent out to a client who was feeling a little uneasy with what he was hearing in the media & friends about Countrywide. Needless to say this gave him a sense of security and we are continuing on the path of home ownership with excitement and optimism.

Dear Jim

News about the current state of the mortgage industry can be unsettling for those of us who make our living in this business. This challenging time has brought about greater than usual media coverage of our sector, including coverage about Countrywide.

With all the information that's being distributed, I wanted to take a moment to personally update you on what's going on at Countrywide.

· We have supplemented our existing liquidity options by infusing an additional $11.5 billion in to our operation through a syndicate of 40 of the world's largest banks. More than 70 percent of this facility has an existing term of greater than four years.

· We announced our strategy to fund a significant portion of loans through Countrywide Bank, which has approximately $100 billion in assets. Today, we fund approximately 70 percent of our loans through Countrywide Bank, and expect that nearly all of our loan volume will be funded through the bank by the end of September.

· We expect that approximately 90 percent of the loans we originate will be eligible for funding through Countrywide Bank or the Government Sponsored Entities (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac).

· Just this week, we increased our product options for fully documented Jumbo loans.

I want to let you know that while this industry turmoil may continue for some time, Countrywide is here to assist you in and meet the home loan needs of your customers.

While the current industry news can be unsettling, know that I am here, backed by Countrywide, to meet your mortgage lending needs. Feel free to contact me directly by phone or email. Thanks for your call the other evening

As the Industry continues to change, as it will continue to do so, we have to learn to roll with the punches and find a way to work with what we are faced with. Instead of complaining about the changing market and reminiscing of the good o'll days. What are you going to do to make it work for you?

2268 N. Snow Hawk Kuna, ID. 83687

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 16:11:28 -0500

Welcome to 2268 N. Snow Hawk in Growing Kuna Idaho.

This is truly a buyers opportunity that has landed on the market. With the current owners being transfered out of state they are looking to move quickly.

Large front and rear yard fully fenced, not to mention the RV Parking with gate on the North side of the property. A great find at a great price of $184,900

With Hickory Hardwood Flooring Throughout (yes it is really throughout the entire home) this one gives you a lot more bang for your buck! Large Master Suite with room enough for a King Sized Bed and the rest of the bedroom set. Large walk in closets, ceiling fan, and a great Master Bath with a gracious oval garden tub. Clean as a whistle and neat as a pin.

This is not your typical Cookie Cutter Home.

Want to know more about this wonderful opportunity for Home Ownership in Kuna Idaho? Give us a call or visit us on the web... http://www.liveinidaho.net/

Hillsdale Estates Showcase of Homes

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 13:44:46 -0500

You have been cordially invited to visit the Hillsdale Estates Showcase of Homes. Saturday August 4, 2007 from 11:00 A.M to 3:00 P.M where you can tour a variety of Custom Built homes all situated on an acre or more. With home prices starting from $479,000 up to 1,350,000, believe me when I tell you there is definitely something for everyone. There will be food & prizes available with door prizes at each individual home on tour and a Grand Prize drawing for a Two-Night Stay at the Ashley Inn located in Cascade, Idaho.

New construction or resale, smaller single story homes to large family estates and building lots too! Each home site has their own phenomenal views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valley views, in this unique and well established community.

Imagine over1800 acres of rolling hills tucked inside the valley just outside the city limits of Star Idaho and just a few miles West of Eagle. Equestrian facilities, trails, private catch & release fishing pond, trails, and access to public lands are some of the amenities that make Hillsdale Estates one of the most highly desirable places to call home in South West Idaho. Just past Eagle Knoll Winery and River Birch Golf Course Hillsdale Estates is the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience.

Come out and enjoy an afternoon with us!

LoW BaLL, aFtER LoW bAll, AfTeR LoW BaLl…

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 20:01:41 -0500

I realize WE ARE IN A BUYERS MARKET! How can you not. But let's get a bit more serious with our offers here people!

Now I do appreciate the fact that more of my listings are being shown and activity seems to be increasing here in the Treasure Valley of Idaho. I hope all of you are or will soon be experiencing the same.

But enough already with the ridiculous low ball offers.

As primarily a listing agent I strive to make sure that the listing price falls well in line with the comps (solds) for the area. I also take into consideration the motivation of my sellers, the condition of the home, and the market as well. Sometimes my sellers may not have a whole lot of room to negotiate due to their current circumstances or in some cases they may have plenty. I also council my clients not to take any offer as a direct insult but to think of it as a starting point and let the negotiations begin.

CASE & POINT...

What I don't get is when you get an offer that is 20,000 below asking price and the buyers want their closing costs to be paid by the seller. They also want the Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer and the carpets to be cleaned even though we are giving a carpet allowance! There are no comps to even support that pricing. Just plain ridiculous! In questioning the agent in regards to the offer I find out that the buyer can only qualify for 5,000 more than the offer and that's it.

Why, Why, Why, would you bother showing a property that is clearly out of your buyer's price range and ability? This just doesn't make sense to me and is a waste of time. But, I do present the offer and counter to no avail.

This seems to be happening more and more and I for one am getting a little frustrated with the situation. I have recently had 3 of these types of offers over the past week and none of them have been accepted.

126 & 127 Gem Ave. Nampa ID. 83687

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Sun, 22 Jul 2007 18:15:40 -0500

I Have 2 of these Nampa Townhomes that are identical inside and out. Both units have great rental history and would be a perfect for the investor. Both units are currently rented but are on month to month agreements so they can be an owner occupied as well. This is a lot for the money... Check it out!! ***************************************************************************

2 Identical Townhomes w/ Great Rental History

Location: Nampa, ID

1558 Sq. Ft. for $145,000... NO HOA DUES OR CC&R's.. Built in 2003 this Large townhome with Granite countertops in kitchen and bathrooms has it all. Large family room with electric fireplace, Sun Valley finishes on walls, open and bright. Large Master Bedroom 17x14 w/ HUGE closet. Large secondary bedrooms too. Refrigerator, Washer & Dryer included. Plenty of storage, nice upgraded finishes warm and inviting. Stamped concreted driveway, patio area and a 2 car attached Garage. Private fully fenced back yard. Currently leased Owner Occupied OK too

Photo Gallery

Information

Contact Information

Donna Lueder

208-447-6244

Pricing

Asking Price: $145,000.00

Flexibility: Negotiable

Property Location

126 N Gem Street
Nampa, ID 83686

Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.5

Parking: 2

Year Built: 2003

Attached on: 1 Side

Square Footage: 1558

Agent Name: Donna Lueder

Broker: Integrity Group Inc.

MLS #: 98298739

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Vaulted Ceilings

Exterior Amenities

Patio

Fenced Yard

Grass Lawn

Secluded setting

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 1192113

4935 N. High Prairie Place, Star Idaho 83669

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 13:25:51 -0500

This is my personal home that I have finally come to terms with selling.... Three of my four girls (yes feel very sorry for my husband) hae moved out and we are left with one at home. As you can imagine the house has become to0 large for us and we are looking forward to downsizing not only the size of the home but the land ( 1 Acre) that it is on as well. My dream is that the new owners will love it just as much as we did and do... ***************************************************************************

Donna Lueder | Integrity Group Inc. | dlueder@bitsmart.net | 208-447-6244

4935 N. High Prairie Place, Star, ID

1 Acre Estate Home W/ Separate Living Quarters or Office.

4 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $699,900

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	3,500
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	4 full, 4+ partial
Floors	2
Parking	3 Car garage
Lot Size	1 acres
HOA/Maint	$42 per month

DESCRIPTION

DOWNSIZING, SOON TO BE EMPTY NESTERS...Extensive tier landscaping front & back w/ an oversized brick fire pit, perfect for entertaining. Plenty of windows to maximize the surrounding views. Ample use of hardwood & granite Floor to ceiling stone fireplace & built in wet bar. Great kitchen w/ built in breakfast bar. Master suite w/ Hickory Wainscot, Lg. bathroom w/air jetted tub for two & Roman Shower. Separate entry to quarters above garage w/full bath perfect for work or long term guests. Owner/Agent

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor
Living room	Bonus/Rec room	Office/Den
Dining room	Breakfast nook	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Granite countertop	Stainless steel appliances	Laundry area - inside
Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Bonus Room over garage w/ full bath perfect for long term guests or home based business

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Donna Lueder

Integrity Group Inc.

dlueder@bitsmart.net

208-447-6244

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 20, 2007, 9:29am PDT

4930 Golden Spur Nampa, Idaho 83687

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 17:47:41 -0500

Donna Lueder | Integrity Group Inc. | 208-447-6244

4930 Bronze Spur, Nampa, ID

Single Level w/ Bonus Room Up on an Acre

3 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $539,000

Year Built	2004
Sq Footage	2,710
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	3 Car garage
Lot Size	1 acres
HOA/Maint	$100 per month

DESCRIPTION

What a Find… Single level with bonus up and a side loading garage all situated on an acre. This Functional open floor plan has all you’ll ever need. Inviting kitchen features stacked cabinetry, granite counters, tile backsplash, and maple flooring. Huge Master w/ spacious bathroom and his & hers closet. The upstairs bonus is currently used as a 4th bedroom. Think of the possibilities. Full pole fencing, storage shed, large garden space and plenty of room for the RV and toys.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor
Living room	Bonus/Rec room	Dining room
Breakfast nook	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Granite countertop
Stainless steel appliances	Laundry area - inside	Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Single Level Beauty situated on 1 Acre

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Donna Lueder

Integrity Group Inc.

208-447-6244

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 18, 2007, 6:42am PDT

4982 Golden Spur, Nampa Idaho 83687

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 17:44:06 -0500

Donna Lueder | Integrity Group Inc. | dlueder@bitsmart.net | 208-447-6244

4982 Golden Spur, Nampa, ID

Got In-Laws? Home Based Business? Large Home W/ Separate living
quarters & Entry

5 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $587,000

Year Built	2003
Sq Footage	3,387
Bedrooms	5
Bathrooms	3 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	3 Car garage
Lot Size	1 acres
HOA/Maint	$100 per month

DESCRIPTION

Home Based Business? Room for the In Laws? With the SEPERATE ENTRY, this one of a kind, truly custom built home has it all. Note the dramatic open beam ceiling in the great room with oversized gas fireplace and custom mantle to match. Functional floor plan complete with a great kitchen w/ built in work desk (behind double doors), plenty of storage, laundry chute, and home is fully smart wired throughout. Master suite boasts a walk in shower and a balcony to take in the views of Bogus. A must see!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Family room
Living room	Bonus/Rec room	Office/Den
Dining room	Breakfast nook	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Washer	Dryer	Laundry area - inside
Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard	Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Separate Entry for In-Laws or Home Based Business

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Donna Lueder

Integrity Group Inc.

dlueder@bitsmart.net

208-447-6244

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 17, 2007, 1:50pm PDT

How Do You Like It ???

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 11:05:00 -0500

Let me first preface this with I am currently selling my own home. Well I can honestly say I feel your pain... A funny thing happened to me last night as I was settling in for a night of laundry, facial, and just plain relaxing in front of the television in loosely clad clothing, if you know what I mean, after our third week of 90-100+ temperatures.

My youngest daughter came in after playing outside with a faint feeling and complaining that she was going to get sick. Well needless to say she passed out right in my arms. After carrying her over to the couch, applying ice packs on her and making sure she was ok my cell phone kept ringing. Of course I was just going to let it go to voice mail but they kept calling back. Mind you this was around 8:30 at night. After the third time I decided I better answer it. Well you guessed it... It was an agent who just so happened to be in my driveway wondering if it would be ok to show the house.

Holly c*$@% !!! What timing___________

I asked her to give me a couple of minutes (trying to easily accommodate for all showings like I stated in the listing). After wiping the over priced gunk off of my face, shoving the laundry back in the dryer, turning off the mindless reality TV show that I was so looking forward to watching, getting my Husband and Daughter situated in the back yard, and putting on some clothes, I opened the door with a smile on my face and asked them to come on in. The Realtor apologized for the short notice with clients in tow and I replied back... No, No, not a problem at all.

This blog is dedicated to all of my patient, considerate, accommodating, and wonderful clients. I feel your pain.

Hillsdale Estates... A Gem of a Community

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 00:54:49 -0500

DESIRABLE HILLSDALE ESTATES... "THE PLACE TO CALL HOME"

Imagine over1800 acres of rolling hills tucked inside the valley just outside the city limits of Star and just a few miles West of Eagle. Equestrian facilities, trails, private catch & release fishing pond, trails, and access to public lands are some of the amenities that make Hillsdale Estates one of the most highly desirable places to call home. Just past Eagle Knoll Winery and River Birch Golf Course Hillsdale Estates is the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience.

Something for Everyone

All homes are situated on 1 to 2 acre home sites and each has their own phenomenal views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valley views.

Take a Look at what the Homes of Hillsdale Estates has to offer. New construction or resale, smaller single story homes to large family estates, there is defiantly something for everyone in this unique well established community.

Want to build the home of your dreams?

Not a problem in Hillsdale Estates. There are several acreage properties still available to choose from. Weather you choose to build right away or would like to buy and hold the choice is yours. With no time constraints on building in Hillsdale Estates, think of the possibilities.

What are you waiting for?

You have a dream, now make it a reality.

Theres a new Reno Rainer in Town... Welcome

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 17:09:13 -0500

Welcome Reno Rainer L. Jean Murphy

I wanted to take some time and introduce to you a fellow Realtor, Client and Friend Jean Murphy. A great person and a wonderful soul located in the Reno Nevada area affiliated with Keller Realty. I can't wait to see what Jean is going to bring to the Active Rain table. With the wealth of knowledge and creative mind set I look forward to reading her blogs, comments, and thing else she may come up with.

Free alarm system most of us all ready have and don't realize it

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 19:13:49 -0500

A Tip every one should know:

Put your car keys beside your bed at night. If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, just press the panic button for your car. The alarm will be set off, and the horn will continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car battery dies.

This tip came from a neighborhood watch coordinator. AND IT WORKS. Next time you come home for the night and you start to put your keys away, think of this: It's a security alarm system that you probably already have and requires no installation. Just press the panic alarm on your car key chain.

TEST IT! It will go off from most everywhere inside your house whether you park in your car in the driveway or garage. If your car alarm goes off when someone is trying to break in your house, odds are the burglar or rapist won't stick around. After a few seconds all the neighbors will be looking out their windows to see who is out there and sure enough the criminal won't want that. Try yours to make sure it works before you rely on it. Just know that you must press the alarm button again to turn it off. And remember to carry your keys while walking to your car in a parking lot. The alarm can work the same way there.

Idaho famous for Cherries?

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 16:15:07 -0500

Emmett Idaho & Cherries a perfect combination. Not only do we grow our World
Famous Idaho Potatoes, but our cherries aren't half bad either, as a matter of fact they are awesome!

Yes, it's that time of year again. Grab your family, friends, and anyone else who is looking for some good old fashioned fun and head out to the Emmett Cherry Festival. The fun starts on Wednesday June 13^th and runs through Saturday June 16^th. There is so much to do and something for everyone.

Start your day out with some great fun while picking cherries right out of the orchards. There are several U-Pick orchards available to choose from and not just cherries.

Head on over to Emmett City Park and visit some of the exhibits, rides, and don't forget the food! Activities include a Cherry Pie Eating Contest, Cherry Pit Spitting Contest, Cherry Festival Parade, and a full-scale Carnival, and Car Expo.

Don't forget... The annual Cherry Festival Parade rolls through downtown Emmett Saturday at 6 p.m.

Get your seat curbside and enjoy an evening in Emmett Idaho .

SHOW US THE GOOD STUFF

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 18:28:46 -0500

It seems lately that Pictures and lack there of seems to be a hot trigger for many of us in the industry.

This got me thinking of some of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to pictures in the MLS.

First of all the quality of some of them leave something to be desired. I know we are not all professional photographers but with technology and the many different types of digital cameras on the market it makes it pretty hard to take a really bad picture. Even if you are skilled enough to take a really bad picture there are programs out there like Picasa from our good friends at Google to correct the mistakes we've made and salvage a bad picture to something that looks quite nice. Check it out I use it all the time and it really is easy.

Moving on to another picture related issue that irks me...

Ok, so there ARE pictures in the MLS, and they are not bad either. As your reading through the comments it say's something like this... "Beautiful kitchen a cook's dream you have to see it to believe it" (I actually took this right out of a listing that is in my MLS as I write this) You guessed it... NO PICTURES OF THE KITCHEN! How about "Fabulous Views" with NO PICTURES OF THE VIEW!

If you are going to boast about a particular feature in your listings have the sense to SHOW US THE GOOD STUFF!

This just drives me nuts.

Easiest Postcard System Yet

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:04:14 -0500

I thought I would share some information that I found extremely easy to use, quick, and most of all inexpensive.

STRATUS MAIL http://www.stratusmail.com/

This is a postcard, magnet, flyers, email campaigns, and mailing lists all in one. You can use your photos, your words, design your own templates, or use one of theirs. They print, Label, put the postage and mail in as little as 24-48 hours.

You can partner up with a local Title Company rep to get preferred pricing. Try it I think you will find the results well worth it.

Build or Buy In Idaho that is the question???

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Tue, 29 May 2007 17:32:24 -0500

Here are two great options in the Highly Desired Hillsdale Estates Subdivision. BUY: A Great custom built home completely landscaped with over 50 trees & tons of shrubbery. Nice backyard, perfect for BBQ's and outside entertaining. Note the rather large built in Brick Fire Pit. A great house, perfect for those who want to live the life. There is also a separate living quarters over the garage with a full bath. Perfect for a home based business or long term guests. BUILD: We have you covered... Magnificent 1 Acre lot with no back yard neighbors & talk about the views! Level building site, little work would need to be done to get site ready for building. This would be a perfect lot for a daylight basement too. Not ready to build just yet? No problem... Hold it for as long as you like no time constraints on building.

Overcoming the "Little" Obstacles

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Fri, 04 May 2007 14:05:45 -0500

Nothing is harder on a seller that keeping the home SHOW READY at all times. How many times have sellers received a call asking if it was OK to show and they just happen to be sitting right outside the property. Hey, it has happened to all of us at one time or another.

This is especially more difficult when there are children in the home. A strategy of mine is that I ask permission from the parents to come up with a reward system for the kids. Selling a home is stressful on all. Get the kids involved in the process and watch how cooperative and motivated they become.

After we have had a showing while giving feedback to my sellers I ask if the kids were SHOW READY... beds made, toys picked up, etc. If the kids have done their part I bring by some COLD STONE COUPONS and spring for some ice cream, my treat!

The majority of my clients have been extremely appreciative of this little bit of motivation for their little ones.

Does your vacant home Bounce? Maybe it should.

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Thu, 03 May 2007 07:57:22 -0500

Here are some great uses for Bounce... Perfect for vacant homes. It helps keeping them smelling fresh without masking odors with overpowering air fresheners. I have personally tried ( or should I say made my daughters) # 3 in their bathroom. It REALLY WORKED!! Took a few sheets but hey. 10,11, & 15 are also really good too.

1. Tie a sheet of Bounce through a belt loop when outdoors during mosquito season, it will repel them!

2. To eliminate static electricity from your television or computer screen, wipe the screen with a USED sheet of Bounce to keep dust from resettling.

3. To remove soap scum from shower doors, clean it with a sheet or two of Bounce.

4. Freshen the air in your home by placing an individual sheet of Bounce in a drawer or hang one in the closet.

5. To keep your vacuum cleaner smelling fresh, put a Bounce sheet in it.

6. Prevent thread from tangling ... run a threaded needle through sheet of Bounce before beginning to sew.

7. To keep suitcases from smelling musty, place an individual sheet of Bounce inside empty luggage before storing it.

8. Freshen the air in your car by placing a sheet of Bounce under the front seat.

9. Eliminate odors in wastebaskets. Place a sheet of Bounce at the bottom of the wastebasket.

10. Remove animal hair from furniture or clothes by rubbing the area with a sheet of Bounce. It will magnetically attract all the loose hairs.

11. Eliminate static electricity from mini blinds. Wipe them with a sheet of Bounce to prevent dust from resettling.

12. Wipe up sawdust from drilling or sand papering. A used sheet of Bounce will collect sawdust like a tack cloth.

13. Eliminate odors in dirty laundry. Place an individual sheet of Bounce at the bottom of a laundry bag or hamper.

14. Deodorize shoes or sneakers by placing a Bounce sheet in your shoes or sneakers overnight.

15. Golfers put a Bounce sheet in your back pocket to keep the bees away.

16. Put a Bounce sheet in your sleeping bag and tent before folding and storing them, it will keep them smelling fresh.

17. Rainy day cure for dog odor ... The next time your dog comes in from the rain, simply wipe him down with a Bounce sheet. Instantly your dog smell springtime fresh.

YOU NEVER KNOW...

Meridian Idaho Real Estate - Donna Lueder (Integrity Group Inc. ) — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 17:49:07 -0500

A few years ago I followed upon a lead of a gentleman who wanted to buy A property.

I did my homework and found a few properties to go take a look at that best suited his needs knowing he flew into town for only the day. I was very nervous because something didn't seem right. The prospective buyer was extremely nervous and was sweating Profusely. I did all the right things to protect myself... let him go in the home first, kept the doors open, leaving a clear exit path, keys in hand, let my office know my route etc.

After the tour was done we went back to the first house to write an offer. When we entered the home I noticed that he had removed the business card that I had left on the kitchen counter and put it in his pocket. What crossed my mind was that he was getting rid of any evidence that I was ever there and that this was going to be my last day on earth. Then something strange happened. The buyer broke down and explained to me that he was deathly afraid of flying and that he had to get back on the plane in a couple of hours and wasn't sure if he could. He also apologized to me that he had forgotten my name and took the business card to refresh his memory.

Long story short, I got him back to the airport, bought him a shot of whisky to calm the nerves and away he went. I got the offer accepted on the property that we wrote and he bought four more from me that year. It has been 4 years, 36 transactions, and several referrals later and still going strong.

I had no clue that the guy who I thought was worst nightmare would turn out to be my best client.