The Rise of Luxury Living: Current Trends in Condo Amenities
CARMA STAHNKE
Condominiums have long been a great housing option, especially in urban areas, and today’s upscale amenities are only increasing buyer demand. With luxury features and a plethora of services, the modern condo has become much more than just a living space – it is a curated experience offering the perfect blend of convenience, community and entertainment.
Full-Service Living
Condos are evolving into all-in-one complexes that cater to multiple lifestyle needs. This means concierge services that go beyond the basics – think personal shopping, luxury salons, at-home dining delivered from on-site restaurants and even event planning. In a fast-paced world, the gift of time is invaluable, making these convenient sought-after amenities ideal for busy residents.
Health and Wellness Centers
Today’s condo residents don’t just desire gyms – they’re looking for wellness sanctuaries. Standard fitness facilities are expanding into comprehensive
wellness centers that feature state-of-the-art equipment, yoga studios and on-demand virtual classes. Saunas, steam rooms and massage therapy suites are also becoming commonplace, offering tranquility without the travel.
Outdoor Oasis
The craving for outdoor space has cascaded onto condo amenity trends, manifesting in expansive terraces, communal gardens, outdoor kitchens and swimming pools for laps and lounging alike. These luxuriously appointed extensions of indoor living are designed for entertainment, relaxation and reconnection with nature.
High-Tech Hubs
As remote employment becomes more and more prevalent, condos have adapted to include dedicated work areas complete with high-speed internet, private pods and conference rooms equipped with the latest technologies. Forget the daily commute – the new workspace is an elevator ride away, the ultimate in productivity and proximity.
Pet-Friendly Perks
Recognizing furry friends as family members, condos are incorporating pet-friendly amenities that pamper both pets and their owners. On-site pet spas, dog walking services and even private parks or rooftop dog runs ensure that four-legged residents live as lavishly as their human counterparts.
Bespoke Entertainment
Entertainment amenities are on the upswing, with condos offering private movie theaters, game rooms and sports simulators. Residents can enjoy a blockbuster or a round of virtual golf without even leaving the building. Some developments are also positioning themselves as cultural hubs, with on-site art galleries and music rooms that nurture creativity. As preferences evolve, so do condo amenities, reflecting a collective pursuit of holistic living that’s equal parts leisure and productivity. These trends also reveal a move toward thoughtful craftsmanship, where convenience meets luxury and the everyday becomes the extraordinary.
6 Reasons to List Your Home During the Holidays
MICHEL SMITH
Sellers, take note and embrace the holiday joy! If you’re planning to list your home this season, early fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for the market.
Less Competition
During spring and summer, there are historically more homes on the market. During the holidays, there are typically fewer listings, making it easier for your home to really stand out and shine to potential buyers.
More Serious Buyers
Amid the hubbub, people are extra busy gift shopping and attending celebrations. Consequently, you’re not likely to get many justlooking buyers. Anyone home shopping during the holidays will be more focused and more likely to make a strong initial offer.
End-of-Year Financial Advantages
Finalizing a home sale before the end of the year can provide potential financial benefits, such as deductions on property taxes, mortgage interest and other home-related costs.
Job Relocation Season
Since January is a common window for job relocations, buyers may need to settle into a city and home by the end of the holiday season. Your home may be the answer to their relocation prayers!
Faster Closings
Since everyone is busy decking the halls, buyers and sellers will both be interested in moving things along expeditiously. And because all the professionals involved for a sale will have fewer closings on their plate, your transaction will get even more attention.
Cozy Vibes
While winter weather can be daunting, nothing beats coming in from the cold to a warm, cozy home adorned for the season. Just turn up the heat, have a yummy treat in the oven and be sure to keep your sidewalks clear of snow and ice. Along with your festive outdoor lights, you’ll appeal to buyers’ sentimentality with all the decorative touches. Listing your home during the most festive time of the year can lead to more serious and qualified buyers – and a fresh start for the new year. Contact your local Coldwell Banker® agent to get a jump start on listing your home in time for the holidays.
NOTES
Throw a Halloween party and use a carved out pumpkin to make this creamy hummus. At other times of the year use butternut squash or a blueskinned pumpkin.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 small pumpkin
• Olive oil for roasting
• 2 garlic cloves peeled
• ½ lemon juiced
• 2 tbsp tahini paste
INSTRUCTIONS
Pumpkin Hummus
• 400g can chickpeas drained
• 1 red pepper deseeded, and sliced
• 1 yellow pepper deseeded, and sliced
• Mini breadsticks and pitta chips, to serve
1. Cut the top off the pumpkin, about two-thirds of the way up. Remove the pumpkin seeds, then scoop the flesh out of the bottom and the lid.
2. Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Cut the pumpkin flesh into pieces and put in a roasting tin with the garlic and a good glug of oil. Season, then bake for 45 mins until very tender. Leave to cool.
3. Tip the pumpkin into a food processor with any juices from the roasting tin and the garlic. Add the lemon juice, tahini paste and chickpeas. Season with salt and blend to a paste – add a little more oil if it's too thick. Scoop the hummus back into the pumpkin and serve with the peppers, breadsticks and pitta chips.
HOME TRENDS: SPOOKY BUT STYLISH HALLOWEEN
DECORATING WITHOUT THE CLUTTER
Halloween is one of the most festive times of the year, but for many homeowners, it can also bring the challenge of balancing fun seasonal décor with a clean, stylish home. The good news? You don’t have to choose between spooky and sophisticated. With a few smart decorating strategies, you can celebrate the season without overwhelming your space.
Start with a neutral base. Instead of filling your home with bright orange plastic, opt for a
palette of black, white, and metallics. Black candles, white pumpkins, or gold accents add seasonal flair while blending seamlessly with your existing décor. This creates an elevated look that feels more chic than cluttered.
Focus on statement pieces over volume. A single dramatic wreath, a cluster of faux ravens on a mantel, or a bold tablescape with moody florals and dark glassware can make a strong impact. The key is
intentional placement rather than scattering small items in every corner.
Add natural elements for balance. Dried branches, pampas grass, or muted seasonal florals can bring in the autumnal vibe without feeling kitschy. Pairing these with minimalist Halloween accents keeps the look grounded and stylish.
Don’t forget ambient lighting. String lights, lanterns, and candles not only enhance the spooky mood but also give your home a warm, welcoming glow. The right lighting can create atmosphere without adding physical clutter.
By choosing décor that leans into simplicity, natural elements, and statement details, you can enjoy the Halloween season in a way that feels festive yet refined. It’s proof that your home can be both spooky and stylish—no clutter required.
$700,314 2,074 1,362 21 87 $403,113 $556,107 498 335 4,609 2,627
Market Insights
Spokane Countyexperienced a slight decrease in the average sale price, lowering to $434,215, marking a 0.1% increase compared to September 2024. The median sales price saw a slight increase of 2.4%, settling at $403,113. The current inventory rose in a big way to 2,074 listings, an notable increase of 33.2% from the previous year. This represents a 4.2-month supply, an increase from September 2024, still indicating a seller's market. Residential closed sales also decreased by 4.2%, totaling 498 transactions. Additionally, the median days on the market increased to 21 days.
Annual residential sales is up from year’s level, up 1.3%, totaling 4,609 sales.
In similar fashion, Kootenai Countyshowed increased price performance, with the average sale price lowering to $700,314, reflecting a 0.6% increase from the previous year. The median sales price had an increase of 4.9%, reaching $556,107. Inventory in the area decreased by 4.0% to 1,362 listings. Residential closed sales saw an increase of 5.0%, with 335 transactions recorded. The average days on the market decreased to 87 days. Annual residential sales in Kootenai County are up 4.8%, totaling 2,627 transactions so far this year.
As interest rates fluctuate and the market anticipates changes throughout the year, it's crucial to