REAL Magazine, May-June, 2016

MAY/JUNE, 2016

Know the Buzz Treasure Valley Beekeepers Grain Free or Gluten Free?

Important Info for Your Pet Create Your Own Outdoor Paradise Five FAQs About Window Screens Monthly Market Report Happenings With 4 offices to serve you, Coldwell Banker Tomlinson Group is YOUR SOURCE for real estate in the Treasure Valley!

D O W N T O W N B O I S E 3 4 3 .3 3 9 3 | M E R I D I A N 336.3393 | E A G L E 939.3363 | N A M PA 467.5272

Ah, the sweet smells of spring! As the snow disappears from Shafer Butte and the flowers, trees, and shrubs bloom, many of us are preparing our vegetable gardens.

What's your favorite thing to plant? Do you have secret weapons against bugs and other pests, or tips on how to grow the biggest tomatoes? We'd love to share your knowledge! Let us know at REAL@coldwellbankertg.com.

“

Handle a book as a bee does a flower: extract its sweetness but do not damage it."

~ John Muir

contents Know the Buzz The Treasure Valley Beekeepers Club provides important information about bees in our world.

Grain Free or Gluten Free?

Our friends from Kringle's Korner Pet Food in Boise and Star share some insight.

Your Outdoor Paradise Tips for creating your very own outdoor paradise.

Let In the Breeze Andersen Windows shares Five FAQs about installing window screens.

Market Stats Is it still a seller's market?

Take a look at what's happening in our area.

Ada County Homes We need more listings! Check out some Ada County homes for sale before they disappear.

Canyon County Homes Affordable AND beautiful Canyon County has both!

Happenings It's time to get outside!

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MAY/JUNE, 2016

The Treasure Valley Beekeepers Club at their 2016 Spring event at the Honey Store, Fruitland, Idaho

Know the Buzz

Beekeeping in the Treasure Valley

The Treasure Valley Beekeepers Club provides a great opportunity for everyone to learn about the importance of bees in our valley — and our world.

Karla Kimball, President Treasure Valley Beekeepers Club

I

n the Treasure Valley, it is not uncommon to see a cluster of beehives in a farmer’s field or even to know a beekeeper, either on the hobbyist or commercial level. Perhaps a neighbor has a hive or two in their backyard or, in our more rural areas, a commercial beekeeper has a few hundred hives scattered around our valley.

Beekeeping within the city limits of Boise has become fairly familiar and even welcomed over the past few years. And with the general media attention given to the decrease of these tiny insects, a new-found acceptance for the honey bee, and pollinators in general, has erupted.

The honey bee is a social insect that can claim responsibility for a very large part of our diet. From fruits and vegetables to nuts and flowers, the honey bees work their magic to pollinate buds and blossoms in trees and flowers. We reap the benefits in our grocery stores, our farmer’s markets, and our landscapes — not to mention the sweet honey that is extracted from the hive in mid-to-late summer.

over-wintering your first colony is pure joy. Daring not to become overly content or relaxed, the cycle of learning the science behind beekeeping must continue, season after season.

For the hobby beekeeper, there is an excitement in managing a successful colony of honey bees through the seasons of spring, summer, fall, and winter. The sense of accomplishment from

There is big difference between a gentle honeybee and a wasp or hornet. While wasps and hornets are great pollinators and certainly have their place in the “circle of life,” they can be challenging when

While there is an overall acceptance of the honey bee presence, more education is always needed. For a lot of people, it is easy to confuse the honey bee with other flying and stinging insects.

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PAGE 5 A frame of uncapped honey that needs a few more weeks in the hive before being cured and ready for harvest.

trying to enjoy the outdoors, especially if you irritate them!

It is important to understand the differences between these insects and to deal with them appropriately.

If you are fortunate enough to have a colony of honey bees swarm into your yard and set up their housekeeping (usually only temporarily), please call a beekeeper to rescue the swarm.

If you’re interested in learning more about honey bees or have been giving thought to having your own backyard bee hive, please feel free to join us at one of our club meetings.

Gardening while honey bees are buzzing from blossom to blossom HONEY BEE gathering pollen or nectar is peaceful and should be appreciated.

Trying to enjoy a patio dinner while wasps are flying around your head and landing on your plate can dampen the entire WASP event.

The Treasure Valley Beekeepers Club is one of the valley’s best resources for capturing and rehiving a swarm of honey bees. The “swarm catchers” with TVBC rescue upwards of 250 swarms each spring, simply as a community service. You can find easy access to a nearby beekeeper by going to our website and clicking our red “SWARM” button on the main page: www.idabees.org.

The meeting is free, and you’ll have plenty of opportunity to speak with knowledgeable, local beekeepers, who can help answer your questions. Our meetings are usually once a month, with location, times, and dates posted on our website. Hope to see you there!

cbboise.com

Special thanks to Steve Sweet, Treasure Valley Beekeepers Club, for the photos.

MAY/JUNE, 2016

Grain Free or Gluten Free

Is One Better for Your Pet?

Animals have food allergies, just like humans do, and, like humans, sometimes the triggers are difficult to pinpoint.

by Callie Flegal

I

f you’ve been in a specialty pet food store lately, you have likely been bombarded with the phrase “Grain Free.” Grain free formulas have increased in popularity substantially in the past few years as many pet parents make the change when they see signs of allergies in their furry family members. Itchy skin, soft stools, teary eyes, and hot spots are all common complications pets can have.

Switching pets to a grain free diet can reduce the number of issues that can arise during the animals’ lifetimes.

What many people forget – or simply don’t know – is that putting an animal on a gluten free diet can be just as beneficial.

Gluten free formulas still use grains as their carbohydrate source, but

those grains, such as rice, millet, and quinoa, are gluten free.

(Remember, that grain free diets are also gluten free).

A common misconception is that dogs and cats are unable digest grains, when in reality many pets can digest grains, but have problems digesting gluten. If you go into a grocery store and look at the ingredients label of the store brand pet food, you may see corn gluten meal, wheat gluten meal, and soybean meal, to name a few.

These ingredients can be difficult for your pet to digest, and can have a huge effect on the common issues in our furry friends.

is different, the same is true for our pets, and every digestive system is different. It is important to work with your vet to find the right diet for your pets. Your dog or cat may or may not require a grain free diet, but putting them on a gluten free diet might be a very smart choice in keeping them happy and healthy!

For more information, talk to your vet, and don’t forget to visit our friends at Kringle’s Korner, who just opened their new location at 6728 W. State in Boise.

Finding the right food for your pets is a crucial part of the upkeep of their health. Just like each person COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP

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Though grains are not the most common allergens for dogs (beef gets that honor according to a study published by Pet MD), grain allergies do occur and can create plenty of misery for your furry pal. cbboise.com

MAY/JUNE, 2016

Your Outdoor Paradise

Tips to Create One Today!

Your home should always be your very own paradise, whether you’re indoors or out. Here are some tips for making every warm-weather moment count.

Louise Gaillard Coldwell Banker Blue Matter

N

o matter the size of your budget, you can create an amazing outdoor oasis at home. Just keep the focus on three details: shade, seating, and aromatic scents. Here are some spring decorating ideas to keep in mind when creating your paradise outdoors.

could be in the front or back yard or even on your front porch. It might be under a large tree, or possibly at the side of the house. Bring a pen and paper to sketch your ideas once you find the location. When you first see your thoughts come alive on paper, they’re more likely to come to fruition.

Finding the Shade As they say in real estate: location, location, location. The location where you decide to arrange your outdoor paradise is important.

Walk around your property and look for the spot that gets the most shade—even at high noon. It

Find the best shaded location to enjoy mornings, afternoons, and nights outdoors. You want a place where you can have long, luxurious conversations with friends and family without worrying about the sun’s potentially harmful rays (not to mention the searing summer

heat). If you can’t get enough shade in any location, purchase extra-large, adjustable outdoor umbrellas. When arranging your outdoor area for maximum shade, remember the amount of shade constantly changes throughout the day.

As for the Seating Your next step is deciding on the seating. When you think of being in paradise, you’re reclining and relaxed, so your outdoor chairs and lounges should be just as comfortable as the sofa, love seat, and recliners that are in your home.

Look for furniture that has comfy

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PAGE 7 waterproof cushions that resist mold and mildew. Invest in one or two chairs that provide maximum comfort and include a foot rest or reclining feature, high backs, and cup holders for your drinks. Get an even mix of single and doubleseater chairs for entertaining company. The more comfortable you make the seating outside, the more excited you will be to spend time there.

Aroma Is Everything Your sense of smell has the power to please and inspire you, so make sure that your outdoor paradise has an array of aromatic natural cbboise.com

scents. You can achieve this in a visually appealing way with plants and flowers. Here are some ideas for aromatic greenery in your outdoor paradise: • Herbs (cilantro, basil, lemon grass, verbena, peppermint, sage, thyme and rosemary) • Clove currant • Artemisia plants • Lavender • Lilac • Honeysuckle • Begonias • Gardenia • Lilies • Hyacinth • Iris flowers

You can plant a medley of plants and herbs in several pots or use one pot for each individual plant. Arrange the pots near your outdoor seating arrangement, but not so close that the smells become overpowering. Every day that you go outside to relax, you’ll be enveloped in the fragrant smell of nature and the sight of beautiful plants.

The key to turning your outdoor space into a paradise is to make it as enjoyable and entertaining as your indoor spaces. Think of it as just another room of your house to decorate.

MAY/JUNE, 2016

COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP

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Let In the Breeze

Installing Window Screens

With warmer weather upon us, it’s time to open those windows. Here are five things you should know about the window’s wingman, brought to you by Andersen Windows.

Victoria Keichinger Coldwell Banker Blue Matter

W

indow screens, the window’s “wingman,” bring in light and air while keeping out insects and small animals when you want a breath of fresh air. Here are the answers to five most commonly asked questions about window screens: Why do I need window screens?

Window screens help let fresh air into a home without letting insects, small pests, or other unwanted visitors into the home at the same time. Not every country has window screens – they are most commonly found on homes in the United States, Canada, and Australia.

What do I need to consider when looking for new window screens? Frame? Hardware?

Mesh material? Mesh size?

Most screens are made from either a wood or metal frame. They cbboise.com

How often do I need to replace window screens?

That depends on a number of variables – you might want to replace your screen if there was The most common materials a recent severe weather event used to make the screen mesh that left small dents in the screen are aluminum and fiberglass, but mesh or you notice the mesh bronze mesh is another premium fraying near the spline. If you are option that is growing popular. replacing the window, it always Nylon and polyester screening makes sense to replace the screen is typically used on screen at the same time. doors. Andersen Windows offers TruScene, an insect screen made Should I repair or replace? from micro-fine stainless steel The primary rule comes down to mesh that’s one-third the diameter cost. For the materials and time of conventional insect screen wire required to repair the window – it’s practically invisible. screen, would it be more effective to order a replacement instead? If How do I buy the right insect the price to repair is coming close screen? to what a replacement would cost, It varies from window to window, then replace the old screen. but there are some basic tips in this video that cover much of what you need to know in order to ensure you find the right screen for your window. typically are made by window manufacturers and are designed to blend in with the overall look of your windows.

MAY/JUNE, 2016

Monthly Market Stats

What’s Happening in Treasure Valley Real Estate

H

ome sales continue to pick up the pace as the inventory – especially in resale – remains low. Year-to-date sales units are up 13-14% over last year, and year-to-date sales volume is up 20-30% depending on market area.

for homes in the entry- to midlevel price points. Having seller’s representation by a licensed Realtor who can help a homeowner weigh the pros and cons of the various offers in a home sale transaction is critical.

The swift turnover of listings is leading to extremely low median days-on-market as well as continued increases in median sales prices.

We’re finally seeing an uptick in inventor y as more people consider making a move during this time of year. Yet we clearly still have plenty of demand to absorb new housing supply. The swift turnover of listings is leading to extremely low median dayson-market as well as continued increases in median sales prices.

With this kind of market, multiple offers and bidding wars have become common again, especially

Additionally, on the buyer’s side, having an agent that knows how to position a buyer-client’s offer in the best light possible during the negotiations gives that buyer a better shot at being considered.

We’re seeing many prospective sellers simultaneously purchasing another home and evaluating their options to make that transition easier. One option to consider is financing that will allow for the temporary ownership of both

homes during a transition and then re-amortizing the new home loan once the old home sells. This gives the client flexibility to apply the proceeds from the sale of the old home toward their new purchase while not necessarily requiring the old home to sell and close first.

If you’ve been toying with the idea of making a move this year, but the swift market has you concerned, let’s be in touch and discuss the options available for you to make this transition as painless as possible. You might be surprised to find out not only what your home is worth in today’s market, but also how creative we can get with your situation to help you make the move successfully.

Call, text, or email, and let’s take a look together!

COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP

$239,900

HOMES SOLD APRIL 2016*

MEDIAN SALES PRICE

12

Ada County

AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET

1,890 HOMES CURRENTLY ON MARKET*

* Numbers reflect year-over-year comparisons.

391

$160,000

HOMES SOLD APRIL 2016*

MEDIAN SALES PRICE

13 AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET cbboise.com

Canyon County

774 HOMES CURRENTLY ON MARKET*

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MAY/JUNE, 2016

Ada County

Featured Homes

3118 E. Sweetwater SE Boise Stunning home! High-end remodel with incredible panoramic views of Boise. Kitchen features travertine, quartz counters, breakfast bar island, custom cabinets, and two pantries.

The main-level master has dual vanity and walkin closet. Home has plenty of space, with front and back patios, perfect for entertaining. New driveway and beautiful landscape.

13580 W. Edenbrook W Central Boise Picture perfect home in desirable Hobble Creek.

You'll love the three large living areas! Formal living/dining room, great room with gorgeous gas fireplace on the main level, and below a large family room with 2nd fireplace! Beautiful new engineered hardwood floors in kitchen and eating area. Large back yard with covered patio, raised garden beds and mature landscaping.

5590 N. Wild Goose Way NW Meridian Move-in ready home with open floor plan in coveted Lochsa Falls. Custom stained woodwork and doors throughout with upgraded cabinets and wooden blinds. Split bedroom design with large bedrooms. Kitchen features gas cooktop, two pantry areas and breakfast bar. Master suite with separate vanities, soaking tub, large shower, walk-in shower and door to patio.

1004 E. Wrightwood Dr. SE Meridian Custom-built, exquisite quality home with an inspiring rim view of mountains and the valley!

Single-level floor plan features hardwood and tile floors, wood blinds, granite counters and knotty alder cabinets throughout! No detail has been spared on this 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home! Large corner lot, steps from the pool, clubhouse and park.

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Ada County

Featured Homes

3140 S. El Rio Dr. SW Boise Amazing property on 2.99 acres! Features a deck, gazebo, in-ground swimming pool, outdoor changing rooms, three stall horse barn, sand riding area, dirt riding area, plus an 8-car garage with shop. Don't forget the inside amenities, featuring 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths & 2 master suites! This home has it all, located in the city!

708 S. Woodhaven Ave. NE Meridian Beautiful home in sought after close in Woodbridge Subdivision. Meandering pathways, gorgeous common areas and community pool with cabana for those summertime parties.

Home features a main level master and office.

Stunning kitchen with granite, tile, large island and hardwood floors. Bonus room and 3 bedrooms upstairs are nicely sized.

1007 S. Island Glenn Way Eagle This well-maintained, energy efficient home has it all! Beautiful main-level master with extensive tile work, walk-in shower and closet. Kitchen boasts slab granite with island, prep sink, pantry and view to the amazing yard and pond. Upstairs you'll find a Jack & Jill set up with dual vanity, 5 bedroom or office, large bonus and a laundry chute! Imagine watching sunsets from this gorgeous oasis!

2537 N. Big Sky Place Eagle Phenomenal home on 1.8 acres with amazing views! Features 7 bedrooms, 6 baths & 7,459 asf.

Upgrades and amenities throughout. Main master boasts a cozy fireplace and a grand en-suite with beautiful soaker tub, separate vanities, granite counters and much more! Plenty of room to build a shop, plus horses allowed!

cbboise.com

MAY/JUNE, 2016

Canyon County

Featured Homes

8104 E. Caspian Dr. NE Nampa Amazing home with open floor plan and tons of upgrades throughout! The spacious master suite has a walk-in shower & tub, double vanities, and a large walk-in closet. Back yard features an outbuilding, a covered patio, and a big 16x16 wood gazebo with swing. This 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home has everything you want and more!

2204 E. Kara Anne Ave. S Nampa This beautiful, 2-story home in "The Islands" community is a must see! Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and 1,509 sq.ft.. Master bedroom on second floor with an impressive entry and a walk-in closet. The vaulted ceilings and separate living and dining room give this home a nice, spacious feel. Very close to Greenbelt and community park.

17134 Big Sage Ct. SW Caldwell Gorgeous custom-built, view property situated in a peaceful, serene, country setting. Located just minutes from the golf course, freeway and excellent schools. Spacious master suite with soaker tub, separate shower and walk-in closet. Gourmet kitchen is open to living area, perfect for entertaining. Large covered patio and fenced pasture, all on 1.2 acres!

15373 David St. SW Caldwell Very spacious and well-maintained home with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths on nearly half an acre.

Very warm and inviting layout with formal living and dining rooms. New quartz counter tops in kitchen with island, built-in range, and double oven. Relax and enjoy the beautiful views on the large wooden deck. Fully landscaped back yard.

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Featured Homes

1100 Heckathorn Pl. S Nampa Elegant townhouse tucked back on a cul-desac against the Greenbelt. Features 2 master suites, formal living and dining, family room, and big bonus room. Wrap-around porch and screened patio to enjoy a peaceful evening on the creek. Good-sized yard has park-like landscaping. This 4 bedroom, 3.2 bath, 2,223 sq.ft. home won't last long.

1800 Idaho Ave. SW Caldwell Pride of ownership flows throughout this beautifully designed home. Colossal landscaping with amazing details. In-ground gunite hot tub with spectacular lighting, timer set-up and remote control. Inside you'll find grand windows, a double-sided fireplace between formal dining and living room and a master suite with a huge en-suite. All the bells and whistles!

1279 Stallion Spring Way Middleton Like-new home on a great oversized lot.

Spacious kitchen features granite countertops, breakfast bar and beautiful cabinets with plenty of storage space. You'll love the huge en-suite with soaker tub, walk-in shower and dual vanity.

Plenty of space for everyone in this 5 bedroom, 3 bath, 2,600 sq.ft. home! Close to community pool, clubhouse, and park.

24398 Tombstone Ridge Ct. Middleton Peaceful and quiet, east-facing acre home with amazing views across the valley to the Boise front. This 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath beauty features an open floor plan with 12' ceilings, fireplace in great room, kitchen with quartz counter tops, tile, and hardwood finishes throughout. The 4th bedroom is perfectly situated for an office. Oversized garage plus a shop!

cbboise.com

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Canyon County

MAY/JUNE, 2016

FARMERS’ MARKETS Boise Farmers’ Market Each Saturday

9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

10th and Grove, downtown Boise www.theboisefarmersmarket.com

Capital City Public Market Each Saturday

9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

8th and Idaho, downtown Boise www.capitalcitypublicmarket.com

Eagle Saturday Market Each Saturday

9:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

185 E. State St., Eagle www.facebook.com/eaglesaturdaymarket

Nampa Farmers’ Market Each Saturday

9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Front & 13th, Nampa www.nampafarmersmarket.com

Caldwell Farmers’ Market Each Wednesday evening

3:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.

Arthur St. between Kimball & 7th www.caldwellidfarmersmarket.com COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP

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Happenings The Weather's Warming - Get Out and Play!

Friday Night Dinner at the Basque Market Each Friday, 5:00-8:00 p.m.

35th Annual Greek Food Festival Friday/Saturday, June 3 & 4

608 W. Grove St., Boise Reservations: 208-433-1208 www.thebasquemarket.com

Expo Idaho 5610 N. Glenwood St., Boise idahoslargestgaragesale.com

Idaho's Largest Garage Sale Saturday, May 21, 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

11:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.

2618 W. Bannock St., Boise http://www.boisegreekfestival.com/

Rattlesnake & Porcupine Avoidance

Training for Dogs Saturday, June 4, 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Julia Davis Park, Boise idahohumanesociety.org

Zoo Daze Sunday, May 22, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

World Village Festival Friday-Sunday, June 10-12, times vary

Zoo Boise 355 Julia Davis Dr., Boise zooboise.org

Capitol Park, downtown Boise 601 W. Jefferson worldvillagefestival.com

Nampa Parks & Rec SPLASHtacular Saturday, May 28, 1:00-4:45 p.m.

Nampa Parks & Rec Lock-In for Kids Friday, June 10, 7:00 p.m. to

Lakeview Water Park or Lincoln Pool, Nampa nampaparksandrecreation.org

Saturday, June 11, 9:00 a.m.

Nampa Rec Center, 131 Constitution Way nampaparksandrecreation.org

Alive After Five Concert Series Wednesdays starting June 1

Great Garden Escape Thursdays, June 16-September 15

5:00-8:00 p.m., Basque Block 611 W. Grove St., Boise downtownboise.org

Free Movie Night in Meridian Every Friday in June, July, & August

Settlers Park, Meridian & Ustick Roads Movies start at dusk www.meridiancity.org/movienight

cbboise.com

Check times & schedule online Idaho Botanical Garden 2355 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise www.idahobotanicalgarden.org

Meridian Dairy Days June 20-25, times vary

Main Street, Meridian dairy days.org

D O W N T O W N B O I S E 343.3393 | M E R I D I A N 336.3393 | E A G L E 939.3363 | N A M PA 467.5 2 7 2