A Washington Post article by
John Briley answers the question: You’re going where? Boise

Briley has been writing professionally since 1993. He has published dozens of travel, health and lifestyle pieces in numerous publications. His website is johnbriley.com

John comments on Idaho’s capital city, saying:

there is so much more than potatoes, blooming with artsy and independent delights. Plus, a river runs through it.

Of course those of us who live in the beautiful city of trees are very much aware of the value of the Treasure Valley and how special it is to live in the scenic Gem State. We are happy you enjoyed your visit to Boise, John. Follow this link to John’s Washington Post Article about Boise where John writes a monthly series “You’re going where?” highlighting the best vacation destinations you’ve probably never considered.

The article includes places here in Boise you will definitely want to visit:

• The Idaho Sate Capitol building – our state’s most-treasured building.
• JUMP (Jack’s Urban Meeting Place) – J. R. (Jack) Simplot, an Idaho entrepreneur was a model of the pioneering spirit. After passing away in 2008, he left behind his legacy and astounding collection of vintage tractors. Instead of building a typical tractor museum, his family decided to build JUMP to honor Jack by giving our community opportunities to continue to inspire, grow, and innovate.
• Freak Alley Gallery – Freak Alley Gallery was born on Dec 15th of 2002. What began as a line on a door has grown to be “The largest outdoor gallery in the Northwest”.
• Boise Contemporary Theater – inspires our community to examine our perspectives and better understand ourselves, each other, and the world around us by creating thought-provoking stories of the human experience.
• Fork Restaurant – creative, farm-to-table American dishes and craft cocktails served in a vibrant, brick-and-wood space.
• Bardenay – as the nation’s first restaurant distillery, Bardenay set an industry precedent by combining a full service restaurant and bar with a distillery.
• Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro – located in the heart of downtown Boise, Idaho. Goldy’s takes pride in its made to order breakfast using as many fresh local ingredients as possible to provide a variety of choices.
• The STIL (Sweetest Things in Life) – create high quality, locally based, hand-crafted artisanal ice cream.
• The Record Exchange – a family-owned independent music store.
• Basque Market – serving Spanish-style pintxos (Basque for tapas) and meat & seafood paella.
• Crazy Neighbor – retail accessory shop with an eclectic product line.
  Offering a broad mix of fashion accessories for both men and women, as well as a complete line of stage makeup, wigs and specialty products for individuals, performers and stylists.
• Dunia Marketplace – Idaho’s only nonprofit fair-trade store selling hand-made items from local and global artisan families.
• Inn at 500 Capitol – Centered in the heart of downtown Boise, Idaho.
• The Modern Hotel and Bar– a re-animated Travelodge located in downtown Boise’s Linen District.
• Hyde Park – an older neighborhood with tree-lined streets is on the National Register of Historic Places.
• Boise River Greenbelt – a 25-mile path that runs along the river next to parks and the famous blue turf of Boise State University.

Home Selling Tips From Boise Realtor, Cristina Pescaru

It’s the end of another year, and we are still enjoying a seller’s market in our area (Boise, Idaho and the Treasure Valley).  If you are on the fence regarding selling, maybe you should give it serious consideration. There are advantages to listing this time of year, the major one being that competition is very limited.

Photo by Mike Wilson on Unsplash

Some tips for preparing your house for sale:

• Trim bushes and branches so they don’t block windows or architectural details.
• Set a pot of bright flowers (or a small evergreen in winter) on your porch or front walkway.
• Install new, matching locks and knobs on your front door.
• Repair any cracks or holes in the driveway, and clean oil spots with degreaser and a steel brush.
• Edge the grass around walkways and trees.
• Stow your garden tools and hoses out of sight, and clear kids’ toys from the lawn.
• Buy a new mailbox.
• Upgrade your outdoor lighting.
• Purchase a new doormat for outside your front door.
• Clean your windows, inside and out.
• Polish or replace your house numbers.
• Mow your lawn. Also, turning on the sprinklers for 30 minutes before the showing will make
  the whole yard sparkle.
• In Winter, clear the snow and ice from the walks.

Now that your house is showroom ready, give me a call to start the process.

Contact Boise Realtor, Cristina Pescaru, to find your Boise, Idaho home.

Pledge to Clients: Experience * Loyalty * Commitment * Care

Website: FindYourHomeinBoise.com
Facebook: facebook.com/FindYourHomeinBoise
Twitter: twitter.com/FindHomeinBoise

Attention Buyers and Sellers! The market is still going strong, and steadily climbing upwards. The very good news is that the reasons the prices are going up are legitimate ones, like consumer demand, lack of inventory and the higher prices of new construction. That shelters us from a strong downward spiral correction in the future, since the higher prices aren’t driven by speculation as it was the case 10 years ago.

Some June stats: the median sales price in Ada County grew by 8.7% over last year, and by 12.4% in Canyon County. The average time the properties spend on the market is lower as well, by 13.2% in Ada County and by 9.4% in Canyon County. Homes are selling quickly, and that means less time for the sellers to have the inconvenience of buyers coming through and keep the property in showing-room condition all the time. It’s exhausting

All this is good news for sellers, as we are in a strong seller’s market, that doesn’t show any signs of changing soon, and good information for the buyers to keep in mind: if you are serious about a property, don’t wait, don’t think you will have a few days to think about it, because you won’t, it will go before you know it! Also, make your stronger offer from the beginning, even if it’s not at the asking price, and document that offer to the best of your and your agent’s ability. Make sure that your have the funds available, and present that proof to the seller with your offer, if you are making a cash offer, or that you are pre-qualified if you are getting a mortgage. The more proof of your solidity as a buyer you can offer, and the better you make the offer look, the better your chance to getting the house of your dreams. Good luck to all the buyers out there, and if Ava or I can help in any way, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Contact Boise Realtor, Cristina Pescaru, to find your Boise, Idaho home.

Pledge to Clients: Experience * Loyalty * Commitment * Care

Website: FindYourHomeinBoise.com
Facebook: facebook.com/FindYourHomeinBoise
Twitter: twitter.com/FindHomeinBoise

GeekWire reports interesting news about one of our favorite Northwest cities, Seattle, Washington. LinkedIn created a study of hiring and employment trends in 20 major U.S. cities. The LinkedIn study found that “for every 10,000 people with a LinkedIn account in the Seattle area, approximately nine people came from the San Francisco Bay Area some time in the last year. The other most frequent sources of migration are the nation’s largest cities, New York, Chicago and Los Angeles.”

Maps show cities that Seattle has gained the most workers from and cities with the most migration with Seattle.

The article goes on to say: “Believe it or not, some people actually leave Seattle as well. The most popular destination for people skipping town: Boise.” Possibly people are moving to Boise for the quality of life as well as the comparatively affordable housing market.

When you are planning your move to the City of Trees, find your home in Boise by contacting Ava or Cristina. FindYourHomeinBoise.com

Do you have cracked or damaged curbs or sidewalks?

You may qualify for funds if your sidewalk has the following issues:

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• Cracks from tree roots that are planted between street and  sidewalk
• Heaving concrete
• Sunken sidewalk behind a curb
• Sunken sidewalk over utility ditch
• Tree that was removed due to expansive roots has left a hole where sidewalk was

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You may have another unique circumstance; each case is looked into & carefully reviewed.

You could save thousands and improve your property surroundings. Contact Boise Realtors Ava Tong or Cristina Pescaru  about how you can get on the list for possible concrete repair at no cost to you.

Boise Idaho Realtor, Ava Tong, tells us how to prepare for house hunting.

We all know Boise and the surrounding Treasure Valley is one of the best places to live.  So, let’s find you a home in Boise.  “Searching for a house to buy can be daunting, and most of the homes you see won’t be what you’re looking for ” according to HGTV.  They suggest being aware of some house hunting mistakes to avoid.

Ava Tong is a lifelong resident of the Treasure Valley, with over 37 years of real estate investing and assisting folks in the decision making processes of selling and buying. Ava offers a few suggestions to prepare you for house hunting in Boise, or wherever you heart leads you to find the best home for your family.

If you find the perfect home now, don’t risk losing it because you’re trying to guess where the housing market and interest rates are going. Those factors usually don’t change fast enough to make a difference in an individual home’s price.

Don’t ask for too many opinions.

It’s natural to want reassurance for such a big decision, but too many ideas from too many people will make it much harder to make a decision. Focus on the wants and needs of the people who will actually be living in the home.

Accept that no house is ever perfect.

If it’s in the right location, the yard may be a bit smaller than you had hoped. The kitchen may be perfect, but the roof needs repair. Make a list of your top priorities and focus in on things that are most important to you. Let the minor ones go. Also, accept that a little buyer’s remorse is inevitable and will most likely pass.

Don’t try to be a killer negotiator.

Negotiation is definitely a part of the real estate process, but trying to “win” by getting an extra-low price or refusing to budge may cost you the home you love.

Remember your home doesn’t exist in a vacuum.

Don’t get so caught up in the physical aspects of the house itself that you forget about important issues such as noise level, access to amenities, and other aspects that also have a big impact on your quality of life.

Plan ahead.

Don’t wait until you’ve found a home to get approved for a mortgage, investigate insurance, or consider a moving schedule. Being prepared will make your bid more attractive to sellers.

Choose a home first because you love it; then think about appreciation.

A home is still considered a great investment, but its most important role is as a comfortable, safe place to live.

Contact Boise Realtor, Ava Tong, to find your Boise, Idaho home.

Website:   FindYourHomeinBoise.com
Facebook: facebook.com/FindYourHomeinBoise
Twitter:    twitter.com/FindHomeinBoise

Why Work With a Professional Realtor?

Boise Idaho Realtor – Ava Tong, Gold Key Real Estate
FindYourHomeInBoise.com

Realtors are professional members of the National Association of REALTORS®, they are not just agents. Realtors subscribe to a strict code of ethics. Home buyers appreciate the expertise provided by a knowledgeable Realtor, and clearly see the following benefits when working with a qualified Realtor:

1. An expert guide.
   Selling a home usually requires dozens of forms, reports, disclosures, and other technical documents. A knowledgeable expert will help you prepare the best deal, and avoid delays or costly mistakes. Also, there’s a lot of jargon involved, so you want to work with a professional who can speak the language.
2. Objective information and opinions.
   REALTORS® can provide local information on utilities, zoning, schools, and more. They also have objective information about each property. REALTORs® can use that data to help you determine if the property has what you need.
3. Property marketing power.
   Property doesn’t sell due to advertising alone. A large share of real estate sales comes as the result of a practitioner’s contacts with previous clients, friends, and family. When a property is marketed by a REALTOR®, you do not have to allow strangers into your home. Your REALTOR® will generally prescreen and accompany qualified prospects through your property.
4. Negotiation knowledge.
   There are many factors up for discussion in a deal. A REALTOR® will look at every angle from your perspective, including crafting a purchase agreement that allows you the flexibility you need to take that next step.
5. Up-to-date experience.
   Most people sell only a few homes in a lifetime, usually with quite a few years in between each sale. Even if you’ve done it before, laws and regulations change. REALTORS® handle hundreds of transactions over the course of their career.
6. Your rock during emotional moments.
   A home is so much more than four walls and a roof. And for most people, property represents the biggest purchase they’ll ever make. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you stay focused on the issues most important to you.
7. Ethical treatment.
   Every REALTOR® must adhere to a strict code of ethics, which is based on professionalism and protection of the public. As a REALTOR®’s client, you can expect honest and ethical treatment in all transaction-related matters.

Large Network of Tried, Tested and True Real Estate Service in Boise Idaho Real Estate Market

Boise, Idaho Professional Realtor Ava Tong is ready to put her expertise and knowledge to work for you. When you are ready to buy a home in the Treasure Valley, get in touch with Ava.

Why are we the best agents in the Boise area? Get the answer.

Contact Boise Realtor, Ava Tong, to find your Boise, Idaho home.

Website:   FindYourHomeinBoise.com
Facebook: facebook.com/FindYourHomeinBoise
Twitter:    twitter.com/FindHomeinBoise

The Benefits of Home Ownership

Boise Idaho Realtor – Ava Tong, Gold Key Real Estate
FindYourHomeInBoise.com

1. Tax benefits.
   The U.S. Tax Code lets you deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage, your property taxes, and some of the costs involved in buying a home.
2. Appreciation.
   Historically, real estate has had a long-term, stable growth in value. In fact, median single-family existing-home sale prices have increased on average 5.2 percent each year from 1972 through 2014, according to the National Association of REALTORS®.  The recent housing crisis has caused some to question the long-term value of real estate, but even in the most recent 10 years, which included quite a few very bad years for housing, values are still up 7.0 percent on a cumulative basis. In addition, the number of U.S. households is expected to rise 10 to15 percent over the next decade, creating continued high demand for housing.
3. Equity.
   Money paid for rent is money that you’ll never see again, but mortgage payments let you build equity ownership interest in your home.
4. Savings.
   Building equity in your home is a ready-made savings plan. And when you sell, you can generally take up to $250,000 ($500,000 for a married couple) as gain without owing any federal income tax.
5. Predictability.
   Unlike rent, your fixed-rate mortgage payments don’t rise over the years so your housing costs may actually decline as you own the home longer. However, keep in mind that property taxes and insurance costs will likely increase.
6. Freedom.
   The home is yours. You can decorate any way you want and choose the types of upgrades and new amenities that appeal to your lifestyle.
7. Stability.
   Remaining in one neighborhood for several years allows you and your family time to build long-lasting relationships within the community. It also offers children the benefit of educational and social continuity.

Contact Boise Realtor, Ava Tong, to find your Boise, Idaho home.

Website:   FindYourHomeinBoise.com
Facebook: facebook.com/FindYourHomeinBoise
Twitter:    twitter.com/FindHomeinBoise

As I recently returned from a short trip to my native country, Romania, I thought I should share some things that impressed me positively there.  Maybe there are Romanians here that haven’t been back for a while, and would like to hear how things are going,  and sometimes we can all benefit from looking at how other people do things…

Romanians seem to be happily adapting to being part of the European Union. Highways are being built, and the natives are taking to them like ducks to water. Roads are improving, stores are full of beautiful things, you can’t go a few paces without stumbling over a restaurant or café, or terrace…the food, I could write a whole book about it, but others have already done it better than I could. Anyone who has visited Romania would agree that the food  is plentiful and very tasty, and by our standards, not very expensive.

A couple of things I noticed in the houses I visited: one is a little device that people can attach to their faucets and save water; especially in houses with  young children, that’s  great to have, because even if the children forget to turn off the faucet, the water won’t run…it’s of course motion activated. Similar devices exist here, of course, but I haven’t seen them widely used in residences, and that may be a good idea to implement, or to start asking builders about…

The other improvement that I noticed was the windows opening two ways, like a regular window to the side, or the same window could be tilted and opened only on top. I believe it’s a question of double hinges, but I am no expert. I am sure builders would understand how that is done. Great safety feature for children or pets, especially on higher floors, and a wonderful way of enjoying the last warm and sunny days of Indian Summer…

It was great seeing how Romania has changed, and visiting family and friends that I haven’t seen in a long while. It is even better coming back to my wonderful friends and the place I’m proud to call my home: Boise, Idaho, the United States of America.

~ Cristina Pescaru

Where To Travel In 2015: Top Countries, Cities For Travel Across The World

Boise, Idaho is listed number 4 in an International Business Times article by Cristina Silva. She suggests that this year instead of the usual tourist destinations of Paris, London and Rome you consider visiting one of more of these seven top cities and countries.

1. Vilnius, Lithuania
2. Kanazawa, Japan,
3. Edinburgh, Scotland,
4. Boise, Idaho,
5. Cartagena, Colombia
6. Montevideo, Uruguay
7. Atacama Desert, Chile

Travel guides are encouraging people to travel to off-the-beaten path locales which offer new opportunities to taste unusual foods and try out basic foreign language skills.

” Boise, Idaho. You don’t have to travel all the way to Spain to revel in the colors and gastronomic delights of the country’s Basque region. Boise’s Jaialdi 2015 is one of the largest Basque festivals in the world, and includes jai alai and dancing, according to CNN.  Idaho is also a popular skiing destination and offers various cultural attractions, including wildlife photography workshops.  “