Spokane Real Estate Blog

Spokane Real Estate Bloghttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/Spokane Real Estate Market Information and Discussion. Current statistics and data.en-usTue, 08 Dec 2009 11:24:00 GMT10GDRSSFeeds v1.0Opportunity of a Lifetimehttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/12/08/opportunity-of-a-lifetime<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 14pt; color: #ff0000"><span style="color: #ff0000"><span style="color: #ff0000">The Opportunity of  a Lifetime in Real Estate</span></span></span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 14pt">Just when you thought it couldn't get any better for a home buyer in this market, the government extended and expanded that amazing incentive tax credit that we have all been aware of over the last year.  For any that are still unaware of the benefits of the tax credit, it is a tax credit up to $8,000 for any first-time home buyer.  Making this an amazing opportunity to get an even better deal on a home, especially considering the inventory available, the low prices, and the historically low interest rates.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 14pt">Now that tax credit is extended until June of 2010.  However offers need to be written as of April 30th, 2010 to qualify.  The other thing to mention is that ANY home owner who has been in their current residence for at least 5 years could qualify for a $6,500 tax credit.  If you have considered making a move, this could be the opportunity you have been waiting for.</span> <span style="font-size: 14pt"> <span style="color: #ff0000; text-decoration: underline"><a title="Tax Credit Info" href=" http://windermerespokanevalley.com/docs/Home_Buyer_Credit_11.6.09.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ff0000; text-decoration: underline">CLICK HER FOR MORE INFO</span></a></span></span></div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/12/08/opportunity-of-a-lifetime" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/12/08/opportunity-of-a-lifetime#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/12/08/opportunity-of-a-lifetimeTue, 08 Dec 2009 11:24:00 GMTSpokane Real Estate Markethttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/11/24/spokane-real-estate-market<div><strong style="color: #003366; font-family: Tahoma;">If You Are Curious About The Spokane Real Estate Market...</strong></div> <div> <div><span style="font-family: Tahoma;">You've come to the right place.  Inventory is sliding down and the number of home sales has remained consistent for the last few months.  Below is a fantastic chart illustrating Spokane real estate market activity over the last several months.  What you see below is the entire universe of residential real estate in Spokane County.</span><br /> </div> <div> </div> <div><img src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/spo2.jpg" alt="" width="554" align="left" height="360" /></div> <div> </div> <div><strong style="color: #003366;"></strong></div> <span style="font-family: Tahoma;"> <div><strong style="color: #003366;">Spokane Real Estate Market Trends</strong></div> <div>The chart below illustrates Spokane Real Estate Market Trends.  It is interesting to look at the 15 month trend showing a decline in inventory but an increase in solds and homes under contract.  From September to October we see a decline in inventory and homes under contract which is typical for this time of year.  It is rewarding to see the number of sold closed homes shows an upward trend in each measurement of time below...a good sign for Spokane's real estate market and an indicator that now is a great time to buy!</div> </span> <div></div> <div><br /> </div> <div><img src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/spokanemarket.jpg" alt="" width="546" align="left" height="97" /> <br /> </div> <div> </div> <div><a title="Spokane Market PDF Doc" target="_blank" href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/docs/fall lawn care.pdf"></a></div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div><br /> </div> </div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/11/24/spokane-real-estate-market" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/11/24/spokane-real-estate-market#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/11/24/spokane-real-estate-marketTue, 24 Nov 2009 21:18:00 GMTWhy Buy a Home in Spokanehttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/08/13/why-buy-a-home-in-spokane<p align="center"><font size="1"><span style="font-size: 36pt; color: red"><font size="1"> </font><strong><font face="Arial Narrow,Arial Narrow" size="4"><font face="Arial Narrow,Arial Narrow" size="4">7 Reasons to Own a Home in Spokane</font></font></strong></span></font><strong><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"> </p> <div align="left"><span style="font-size: 14pt; color: red">1. Tax breaks. </span></strong></font></font><font size="3">The U.S. Tax Code lets you deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage, your property taxes, as well as some of the costs involved in buying your home.<br />  </font> <div> </div> <strong><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><span style="color: red"><strong><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3">2. Appreciation</font></font></strong></span>. </strong></font></font><font size="3">Real estate has long-term, stable growth in value. While year-to-year fluctuations are normal, median existing-home sale prices have increased on average 6.5 percent each year from 1972 through 2005, and increased 88.5 percent over the last 10 years, according to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. In addition, the number of U.S. households is expected to rise 15 percent over the next decade, creating continued high demand for housing. </div> </font><strong><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt; color: red"><strong><br /> <br /> 3. Equity.</strong></span> </strong></font></font><font size="3">Money paid for rent is money that youï¿½ll never see again, but mortgage payments let you build equity ownership interest in your home. </font></div> <div> </div> <div><strong><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><font style="color: red" face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><br /> 4. Savings. </strong></font></font><font size="3">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. </font></div> <div> </div> <div><strong><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><span style="color: red"><strong><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><br /> 5. Predictability.</font></font></strong></span> </strong></font></font><font size="3">Unlike rent, your fixed-mortgage payments donï¿½t 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 increase. </font></div> <div> </div> <div><strong><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><span style="color: red"><strong><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><font style="color: red" face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><br /> 6. Freedom.</font></font></strong></span> </strong></font></font><font size="3">The home is yours. You can decorate any way you want and benefit from your investment for as long as you own the home. </font></div> <div> </div> <div><strong><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><span style="color: red"><strong><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><font face="Arial,Arial" size="3"><br /> 7. Stability.</font></font></strong></span> </strong></font></font><font size="3">Remaining in one neighborhood for several years gives you a chance to participate in community activities, lets you and your family establish lasting friendships, and offers your children the benefit of educational continuity. <div> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt; color: red"><strong>If you are a first-time home buyer there is one more "biggie" to consider -   The $8,000.00 Tax Credit.  Hurry though, it expires on November 30th.  You don't want to leave that money on the table.  For more information contact your favorite Windermere Agent.</strong></div> </div> </font><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/08/13/why-buy-a-home-in-spokane" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/08/13/why-buy-a-home-in-spokane#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/08/13/why-buy-a-home-in-spokaneFri, 14 Aug 2009 12:03:00 GMTSpokane Real Estate Market Sizzleshttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/07/11/spokane-real-estate-market-sizzles<div style="font-size: 14pt; color: #ff0000" align="center">Temperatures and Home Sales On The Rise!!!</div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt">June home sales rose by 28.2% compared to last month proving that the buyers are out there.  </span></div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div><img style="width: 504px; height: 322px" height="322" src="http://windermerenewconstruction.com/images/Picture1.jpg" width="504" align="left" alt="" /> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt"><strong><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> More good news for sellers</strong> is the fact that the average sales price also rose last month from the previous month.  Inventories are also down by 4% compared to last year.  While business is still down compared to last year's numbers, we can be hopeful that the trend will continue as the first-time home buyers take advantage of the $8,000.00 tax credit.  Rates are still great and it is an amazing time for trade-up buyers looking to buy a bigger home.</div> <div style="font-size: 12pt"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt"> </div> <div><img src="http://windermerenewconstruction.com/images/Picture2.jpg" width="580" align="left" alt="" /> </div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/07/11/spokane-real-estate-market-sizzles" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/07/11/spokane-real-estate-market-sizzles#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/07/11/spokane-real-estate-market-sizzlesThu, 23 Jul 2009 22:39:00 GMTIs Spokane Real Estate a Good Investment?http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/06/03/is-spokane-real-estate-a-good-investment<div><span style="color: #3366ff"><span style="color: #3366ff"><span style="font-size: 18pt"><strong>Is Spokane Real Estate a Good Investment?</strong></span></span></span></div> <div><span style="color: #3366ff"><span style="color: #3366ff"><span style="font-size: 18pt"><strong></strong></span></span></span> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt">We have really witnessed a volatile market over the last several months.  Which brings to mind a question that many investors have been asking themselves:  Where is the best place to invest my money?  </div> <div> </div> <div><span style="color: #3366ff"><span style="color: #3366ff"><span style="font-size: 24pt"><span style="font-size: 14pt"><strong>Let's Look at the Numbers</strong> <div> </div> </span> <br /> </div> <div></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt">Earlier this decade during the housing boom, real estate was the runaway winner as the best investment in Americans' minds, but as housing prices dropped, so did faith in real estate. It has recovered somewhat this year as Americans perceive an improving housing market. <span style="color: #ff0000"><span style="color: #000000">Currently, a<span style="font-size: 12pt">ccording to Gallup Poll, Americans divide equally between savings accounts and real estate while fewer would chose stocks or mutual funds as well as bonds. </span><br /> </span><span style="text-decoration: underline"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000"><a title="Gallup Poll Stats" href=" http://windermerespokanevalley.com/docs/Gallup Poll.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 12pt; color: red; text-decoration: underline"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000">Read More....</span> </strong> </span></a></span></strong></span></div> <div> </div> </span></span><strong><strong> <div> <div> </strong></strong></div> </div> <div> <font color="#3366ff"><span style="font-size: 14pt"><font color="#3366ff"><strong>How Do You Determine Value?</strong> <br /> <br /> </font></span> </font><span style="font-size: 12pt">Of course, a home is not only about "Dollars and Cents".  A home is also a place to create memories.  It is a shelter and a refuge.  In an economy where many families are finding it harder to take a vacation due to tighter budgets, a home becomes the "Get-Away Spot".  This is noted in the new term referring to people staying closer to home--"STAY-CATION".  If you buy a home that you enjoy, one that meets your specific needs, the value of the home comes from the satisfaction you have everyday when you walk through those doors.  Purchasing a home, is <strong>ALWAYS a good investment as long as you do your homework.</strong></span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt"> </span></div> <div><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt">To get more information on how to buy a home that best suits your needs contact your Windermere Agent.</span></strong></div> <div><strong> </strong></div> <div> </div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/06/03/is-spokane-real-estate-a-good-investment" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/06/03/is-spokane-real-estate-a-good-investment#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2009/06/03/is-spokane-real-estate-a-good-investmentThu, 18 Jun 2009 07:32:00 GMTSpokane ~ Does Your Home Tell A Story?http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/11/14/spokane-does-your-home-tell-a-story<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <em style="color: #000080;">Does Your Home Tell A Story?</em></span><em style="color: #000080;"></em></div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="justify">Most of us have lots of memories of our home, whether we currently live in it or we remember the home(s) we've lived in.  I have some amazing memories of my childhood home back in Hamilton, MT.  I remember holidays, birthday parties, summer vacations, running down to the river to catch fiesty rainbow trout, crashing my bike, always getting along with my younger sister ( snicker ).  Every time we go back to Hamilton, I just have to drive by my old home to see if the new owners have done anything with it.  I also like to check out the neighbors and see what they have been up to!<img alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/sink.jpg" align="left" width="108" /></div> <div> </div> <div>For you current sellers out there you may want to consider a storybook of your home.  A storybook is a wonderful tool for collecting family memories.  It is also a great way to preserve the story of your home, from the moving experience right up until the moment you move out.   Take before and after pictures of improvement projects, tear out ideas from magazines that you like, and add sketches of landscaping ideas or other remodeling ideas you have for your home.  You may even include pictures of holiday decorations or amazing summer flower bed and green tree shots.  You can take the book with you when you move or leave it for the next homeowner.  It may also be handy to leave a list of names and numbers for all those contractors you've hired over the years.  Maybe you have a favorite window washer, or sprinkler specialist, or landscaper/arborist.</div> <div> </div> <div>Sometime we forget why we own homes.  Some of us own homes perhaps for investments but most because we want a safe place to raise our families and create memories.  Here is a link to stories collected by <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="http://prairiehome.publicradio.org/features/private_wobegon/"><strong><u>Garrison Keillor for his Prarie Home Companion Radio Show</u></strong></a>...another home memory of mine as my Mom and Dad usually had this radio show playing on Sunday afternoons!</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/storybook.jpg" align="left" width="580" /></div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/11/14/spokane-does-your-home-tell-a-story" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/11/14/spokane-does-your-home-tell-a-story#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/11/14/spokane-does-your-home-tell-a-storyFri, 14 Nov 2008 10:35:00 GMTSpokane - October Market Datahttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/11/06/spokane-october-market-data<div align="center">I'd like to start today's blog with a quote.  Post a note if you would like to comment.</div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="center"> <div>Here is quote from Glenn Crellin at Washington Center for Real Estate Research.  You can view his entire October 30, 2008 presentation by clicking the link at the end of this posting.  The quote below is about Housing Affordability in Spokane.</div> <div> </div> <div><font face="Arial" size="4">"In Spokane the typical home is affordable, with the current measure indicating a 22.1% cushion on the ability to afford a home. Now, the industry needs to convince consumers the time is ripe to buy without appearing self-serving. With the kinds of affordability numbers we saw in the first half of this decade it comes as no surprise that the market took off and prices surged. It wasnt irrational exuberance or unjustified lending driving the local market it was common sense!"</font></div> </div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="center">We are still selling homes in Spokane!</div> <div> </div> <div>Here is the latest market data from the Spokane Association of Realtors.  Please note that the average sales price compared to last year is only down 2.3%.  Also, please note that inventory is coming down as well.  I've noticed in our offices that we are not taking as many listings.  </div> <div> </div> <div>This is a good thing for you current sellers in the marketplace.  Less competition for the buyers who are out there.  For buyers who may be "waiting" to see if prices will continue to fall you may have missed the boat.  I think we have stabilized as far as average sales price goes.  <strong><em>Take a look at this:  August 2008 average sales price $203,493, September 2008 average sales price $201,372 and October 2008 average sales price $201,797.</em></strong>  Each of these months are pretty similar.  You can look at previous posts to see the other months of the year.</div> <div> </div> <div>As a side note, there have been 703 new construction homes sold through October 2008.  This may be a surprise to some of you.  The average sales price for new construction is $292,718.  <a style="color: #ff0000" href="http://www.windermerenewconstruction.com/blog"><strong><em>CLICK HERE</em></strong></a> for more new construction data.</div> <div><font face="Times-Roman" size="2"><br /> October residential closed sales for site built/condo on less than one acre totaled 439 closed sales. This total is down 26 closed sales from September. The average sales price for October was $201,797 and the median sales price was $177,000.</div> <p align="left">Year to date sales total 4,364 closed sales through October compared to 6,006 through the same period last year.</p> <p align="left">The average sales price through October is $207,003 down 2.3% from one year ago. The median sales price through October is $184,700 compared to $186,000 over the same period last year.</p> <p align="left">Inventory for the second month in a row is down from the previous month 3,173 compared to 3,387.</p> <div align="left">New home sales reported to the SAR MLS totaled 79 for October up one over the total for September.</div> <div> </div> <div>Here is a link to some interesting facts and figures regarding homeownership.  <a href="http://www.spokanerealtor.com/associations/5294/files/103008-TalkingPoints.pdf"><strong><u style="color: #ff0000">CLICK HERE</u></strong></a></div> <div> </div> <div>And for those of you who like graphs and charts...take a look at this from the Washington Center for Real Estate Research.  You will notice that Spokane and Washington in general our quite healthy and are not seeing the level of foreclosures that other parts of the county are.  <a href="http://www.spokanerealtor.com/associations/5294/files/WCRER2008_files/frame.htm"><strong><u style="color: #ff0000">CLICK HERE</u></strong></a></div> </font><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/11/06/spokane-october-market-data" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/11/06/spokane-october-market-data#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/11/06/spokane-october-market-dataThu, 06 Nov 2008 11:17:00 GMTWhat Can I Get For $200,000?http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/10/31/what-can-i-get-for-200000<div>So the average sales price of a home in Spokane is around $200,000.  I thought you may want to see what around $200K buys you here in Spokane.  These homes are currently available and can be seen today.  I'm impressed with the quality of home you can purchase in Spokane for around $200K.  If you have questions on any of these homes send us an e mail.</div> <div> </div> <div>As of today, October 31st there have been 487 homes closed in October.  The average list price is $211,856 and the average sold price is $207,323.   That is 15.7 homes closed per day for the month of October.  The point is, homes are selling in Spokane.  The total of 487 includes 71 homes over $300,000 and 125 homes between $200,000 and $300,000.  The remaining 291 homes sold under $200,000.</div> <div> </div> <div>Take a peek at the homes below and click on the picture if you'd like to see more pictures.  </div> <div> </div> <div>Option #1 $219,500 "Extreme '08 Makeover (Seller owned 8 yrs). New dream kitchen, deluxe cherrywood cabinets, granite counters, new stainless steel wall oven & micro, new ""glass"" top range, new floor. Popcorn ceilings gone & new texture, all new paint in & out ('08). Main bath-new sinks & vanities, toilet & floor. Lower bath-gutted & all new. New vinyl windows, all new int. doors & trim (not gar door), all new carpet & pad, new lndry rm floor & cabinet. 10x15 office/workshop w/closet & wall A/C. Fresh lndscp. Freeman Schools."</div> <div><a href="http://www.windermerespokanevalley.com/28029581"><img alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/28029581_01.jpg" width="400" align="left" /></a></div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div>Option #2 $199,900 Lovely central valley rancher located on a quiet street of nicely kept homes. Home sits on a treed lot w/ 700 sq ft shop that is perfect for the craftsman in the family. Home features an open kitchen w/gas range, new floors & fresh paint. Beautiful wd floors thru-out, bright living room w/a wood fireplace with insert. Basement is ready to be finished, it is sheet rocked & features a roughed in bedroom, large bath w/Jacuzzi tub & spacious family rm w/wood fireplace. Fenced backyard, nice patio & dog run. </div> <div><a href="http://www.windermerespokanevalley.com/28029723"><img alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/28029723.jpg" width="400" align="left" /></a> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div>Option # 3 $194,900 "Freshly painted valley rancher! Newly remodeled main bath, new sink, faucet & counters in the kitchen, new vinyl flrs, newer furnace & hot water tank, & central air. The bsmt is finished with a fam. rm. & 1 non-egress bdrm~just perfect to ""cozy in and relax!"" Hardwood floors under carpets and 2 gas fireplace inserts~ Wow! You will enjoy the large back yard for your entertaining needs!...& don't miss the workshop and extra room attached to the back of the garage~awesome added space!" <a href="http://www.windermerespokanevalley.com/28028932"><img alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/28028932.jpg" width="400" align="left" /></a></div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div>Option #4 $225,000 Kokomo Beauty-House completely remodeled-New Kitchen with Stainless Steel Appliances. New tile-New hardwood floors, new carpet throughout. New paint, electrical, lights, Garage door-New Driveway, Newer roof, A/C, Huge Laundry room. Spa/Hot tub as is. </div> <div><a href="http://www.windermerespokanevalley.com/28026096"><img alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/28026096.jpg" width="400" align="left" /></a></div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div>Option #5 $199,400 <span style="color: #ff0000">TAKEN OFF MARKET</span> "CONSIDERABLE HOME FOR THE PRICE!! This ""better than new"" home was built in 2005 and is located on a private lane. Features include 3 bedrms upstairs, and 1 bedrm downstairs with a finished rec room. Two bathrooms upstairs and a roughed in bath downstairs. Don't miss the ""pottery barn"" colors, deck, oversized backyard, rain gutters, concrete curbing and a full sprinkler system. Plenty of space to build a shop and park the toys. Sewer installation paid. No Homeowners Association and move in ready!" </div> <div><a href="http://www.windermerespokanevalley.com/28018719"><img alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/28018719.jpg" width="400" align="left" /></a></div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/10/31/what-can-i-get-for-200000" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/10/31/what-can-i-get-for-200000#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/10/31/what-can-i-get-for-200000Fri, 31 Oct 2008 09:41:00 GMTSpokane ~ Can I Get a Mortgage??http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/10/21/spokane-can-i-get-a-mortgage<div>Seems like one of the biggest questions lately is "Can I Get A Mortgage?"  And the answer is...YES!</div> <div> </div> <div>Take a peek at this article from the <a href="http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/realestate/2008280221_harney19.html">Seattle Times</a> on October 18th.  This article illustrates some good points and answers some misconceptions about obtaining a mortgage.  I'll say it again, yes you can get a mortgage...and by the way did you know rates are now under 6% AGAIN!!</div> <div> </div> <div>Here are some numbers that I pulled together for our office meeting this morning.  You may be surprised by what you see.  For example, so far in October -  Spokane is closing 12 homes per day.  And 435 homes sold between $300,000 - $400,000.  And, who knew there were 27 homes sold this year between $700,000 and $1,000,000?  Even more shocking is there have been 9 homes sold this year over one million dollars.  Hmmmm, I thought homes were not selling in Spokane, I thought buying a home was a bad idea, I thought prices were dropping as fast as the stock market?!<img style="width: 330px; height: 251px" height="251" alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/theskyisfalling.jpg" width="330" align="left" /></div> <div> </div> <div align="right">The point is this.  Now is a great time to buy a home.  Rates under 6%.  Great inventory to choose from.  Stable pricing for your investment.  Take a look at the people who are purchasing now.  There have been over 4,000 homes sold in Spokane this year!  I'm still confused and confounded by the buyer who "wants to wait" and "isn't sure now is the right time".  Are you kidding me?  There is no better time and there may never be another time like this.  Never has the real estate market seen low rates, high inventory and less buyer competition all at the same time.  Guess what...you may even be able to negotiate with the seller to pay your closing costs.  </div> <div align="right">When you are competing with more buyers...sellers are less likely to make concessions and you may have to pay full price or more for the home you want. </div> <div> </div> <div><span>Recent Stats</span><span>Through Yesterday, October 20, 2008</span> </div> <p><span>Residential Site Built and Condos in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:PlaceName w:st="on">Spokane</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType w:st="on">County</st1:PlaceType></st1:place></span></p> <p> <span>Active 3795 <span>           </span>Average List Price = $310,934 <span>       </span>DOM = 103</span></p> <p><span> Under Contract</span><span> 417</span></p> <p><span>Sold October 1 October 20<sup>th</sup>  240 <span>    </span>or 12 per day</span></p> <p> <span>Lets Talk Solds!</span></p> <p><span>Sold List Price = $211,801</span></p> <p><span>Sold Sales Price = $207,317</span></p> <p><span>DOM = 85</span></p> <p><strong> </strong><strong><span>Active Inventory<span>                 </span># Active Homes<span>       </span>#Solds in 2008<span>                  </span>Avg SP<span>           </span>DOM<span>   </span></span></strong></p> <p><span>$300,000 - $400,000<span>                       </span>519<span>                                         </span>435<span>                 </span>$341,856<span>       </span>78</span></p> <p><span>$400,000 - $500,000<span>                       </span>324<span>                                         </span>173<span>                 </span>$443,738<span>       </span>80</span></p> <p><span>$500,000 - $600,000<span>                       </span>182<span>                                         </span>69<span>                    </span>$548,048<span>       </span>77</span></p> <p><span>$600,000 - $700,000<span>                       </span>94<span>                                            </span>46<span>                    </span>$643,906<span>       </span>80<span>        </span></span></p> <p><span>$700,000 - $1,000,000<span>                    </span>123<span>                                         </span>27<span>                    </span>$780,118<span>       </span>80<span>        </span></span></p> <div><span>$1,000,000+<span>              </span><span>            </span>            70<span>                                            </span>9<span>                      </span>$1,296,102<span>    </span>122</span> <div> </div> <div>Here is some more perspective:</div> <div> </div> <div> <table id="content_LETTER.BLOCK5" tabindex="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5" width="100%" border="0" hidefocusstyle="margin-bottom: 6px"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="padding-right: 2px; padding-left: 6px; font-size: 10pt; padding-bottom: 2px; color: #000000; padding-top: 2px; font-family: Trebuchet MS,Verdana,Helvetica,sans-serif; background-color: #d8d8d8; text-decoration: none" align="left" width="100%" height="20" color="#f6e8b1"><strong><font color="#666699" size="3">Who is the winner in today's economic times?</font></strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-size: 10pt; color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS,Verdana,Helvetica,sans-serif" valign="top" align="left" width="100%"><font style="font-size: 10pt; color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS,Verdana,Helvetica,sans-serif" face="Trebuchet MS,Verdana,Helvetica,sans-serif" color="#666666" size="2">  <div align="left"><font size="3"><font size="2"><strong>The First Time Buyer --<br /> </strong> <div>They are buying homes today that don't have inflated equity.<br /> They don't have to wait for their home to sell.<br /> They have sellers willing to pay their closing costs and buy-down already good interest rates.<br /> They are in the first "Buyers" Market in nearly 8 years.<br /> They have the largest selection of homes in 15 years.<br /> The current down turn in pricing will allow them to buy homes in neighborhoods that were out of reach 2 years ago.<br /> They can get that extra bedroom or bath or garage.<br /> They can still buy a home with 3% down, a job, and reasonable (not perfect) credit through FHA.<br /> FHA loan limits are the Highest ever $271,050.<br /> If rates go dramatically lower, FHA has a streamlined refinance program that doesn't require re-qualification of the buyer. <br /> If they buy before July 2009 they are eligible for a $7500 tax credit.<br /> If they buy before Dec. 31, 2008 they will get that back with their 2008 return.<br /> This is a life changing opportunity for these buyers.<br /> <strong>We need to carry the message and tell the world.<br /> If we get this entry level going, the rest of the market will move like dominos...<br /> <br /> </strong> </div> <div>(contributed by SAR Affiliate Member, <a title="mailto:dwalker@hnwmortgage.com" href="mailto:dwalker@hnwmortgage.com" target="_blank"><font title="mailto:dwalker@hnwmortgage.com" color="#666699">Don Walker</font></a> of Horizon NW Morgage.)</div> </font></font></div> </font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> </div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/10/21/spokane-can-i-get-a-mortgage" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/10/21/spokane-can-i-get-a-mortgage#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/10/21/spokane-can-i-get-a-mortgageTue, 21 Oct 2008 12:53:00 GMTMarket Data - Number of Homes Sold Per Day in Spokanehttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/10/08/market-data-number-of-homes-sold-per-day-in-spokane<div align="justify">WOW...what a bizarre few weeks.  Banks failing, Government intervening, a stock market roller coaster ride, a rate cut by the World Central Banks, credit being squeezed, spending confidence lost by consumers, and oh yeah, is this an election year too?  Whew!  </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">But, despite all that, homes are selling in Spokane!  In fact there were 465 homes sold in Spokane in September.  These are just residential site built homes and condos on less than an acre.  In counting all residential sales the number is actually 613 with an average sales price of $203,454 and median price of $175,000.  <strong><em>Here is some perspective, that is 15.5 residential site built/condo homes sold per day and 20.4 total homes sold per day in September.  NOT TOO BAD!  </em></strong>Most people, when asked how many homes they think are selling per day in Spokane have told me 3 or 5 or 6.</div> <div align="justify"> <img alt="Spokane Valley Homes" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/sink.jpg" width="108" align="left" height="108" /></div> <div align="justify">What about this notion that you "can't get a mortgage".  I ran into a past client of mine at Fred Meyer the other day and was disappointed to hear all of his misconceptions about financing options available right now.  If you "can't get a mortgage" how did we sell 20.4 homes per day in September??  </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">If you are considering buying TALK TO A REPUTABLE LENDER.  Don't just assume you can't qualify for a home loan.  The media makes it appear that it would be impossible for you to get a home loan.  Not True.  Lending guidelines have changed....but banks are still lending!</div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">Hmmmmm, the report below also states that for the first time this year inventory is down.  Uh-Oh...for those buyers who are "waiting" your choices are swiftly going bye bye.  According to the National Association of  Realtors "The Pending Home Sales Index,1 a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in August, jumped 7.4 percent to 93.4 from an upwardly revised reading of 87.0 in July, and is 8.8 percent higher than August 2007 when it stood at 85.8. The index is at the highest level since June 2007 when it stood at 101.4" </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div align="center">Here are the numbers from the Spokane Association of Realtors.  </div> <font size="2" face="Times-Roman"> <div align="justify"><br /> Residential sales for residential site built/condo on less than one acre totaled 465 sales in September. This total is down eight sales from August and down 97 sales from September 2007. The average sales price for September was $201,372 and the median price was $174,900.</div> <p align="justify">Year to date sales total 3,920 sales through the end of September compared to 5,446 through the same period last year. The averages sales price through September is $207,544 down 2.1% from one year ago. The median sales price through September is $185,000 compared to $186,000 over the same period last year.</p> <p align="justify">For the first time this year inventory is down when compared to the previous months Market Activity. The inventory as of this report totaled 3,387 properties compared to 3,467 as of last months report.</p> <div align="justify">New home sales reported to the SAR MLS totaled 78 for September up four from the total reported for August.</div> <div><img style="width: 157px; height: 119px;" alt="Spokane Valley Realtors" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/blog.jpg" width="157" align="right" height="119" /> </div> <div>So the bottom line is this... yes, it is slower ~ no, Spokane is not experiencing a blood bath on dropping prices ~ we don't know what will happen with rates ~ inventory is dropping ~ our Government and the World Banks are working 24 - 7 to stabilize the financial markets ~ the election is almost over ~ homes are selling in Spokane ~ gas prices are coming down ~ and chicken little may just have to go back inside.  Talk to your agent and talk to your lender.  If you need help finding either...e mail me and I can recommend qualified professionals to you.</div> </font><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/10/08/market-data-number-of-homes-sold-per-day-in-spokane" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/10/08/market-data-number-of-homes-sold-per-day-in-spokane#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/10/08/market-data-number-of-homes-sold-per-day-in-spokaneWed, 08 Oct 2008 15:28:00 GMTWant To Stimulate the Economy?http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/09/17/want-to-stimulate-the-economy<p> <span>BUY A HOME!</span></p> <p><span>With all the financial chaos existing in the <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">United States</st1:place></st1:country-region> today, a thought occurs to me that is actually quite simple.  Want to stimulate the economy...buy a home.  Now how could that possibly make a difference with the Government taking control of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac?  AIG being bailed out by the Fed, etc, etc, etc?  It is quite simple.  In fact, the DOW has dropped again today even with the bail out of AIG.  But, the purchase of a home does several things.</span></p> <p><span>Think about this for a moment while you read this.  If one person were to purchase 1 home it would look something like this.  A mortgage is born, which means interest earned by the bank.  Which means more money for lending.  A lender is paid. A Realtor is paid.  A home inspector is paid.  A title company is paid, a closing agent is paid, and an appraiser is paid.  Staff people in each of these entities are paid.  Guess what, these folks will spend money buying consumer goods if they are paid.  </span></p> <p><span>A seller is cashed out and can now go buy a new home ( which starts the cycle over again ).  The new buyer may need to make some additional purchases for their new home.  At least if it was my wife...we would probably need new towels, dishes, matching soap holders, garden hoses, flowers...whatever.  The point is, other purchases would be made.  And, a buyer has a new home...a sound investment that provides tax benefits, a roof over their heads and a place to create memories.</span></p> <p><span>What if the home is new construction?  There is even more trickle down effect.  Framers, painters, electricians, flooring installers, landscapers, plumbers, dry wallers, etc. all getting paid...all turning around and spending.</span></p> <p><span>Now, if this were to happen not just once but several times across the <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">US</st1:place></st1:country-region>..think of the impact.  In fact, in 2008 it has happened 431 times per month in <st1:City w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Spokane</st1:place></st1:City> ( see my previous blogs for market updates ). And while this is not the same average we have been used to over the last few years...IT IS GOOD.  Real Estate is GOOD for the economy.  In fact, I just read an article on cnnmoney.com that says housing will help correct our current economic state.  "Our economy and our markets will not recover until the bulk of this housing correction is behind us." ~ Henry Paulsen Treasury Secretary</span></p> <p><span>I understand that buyers may be worried about the economic market conditions.  And maybe even concerned about what may happen next week.  But, consider this...the average sales price in <st1:City w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Spokane</st1:place></st1:City> has only slipped 1.8% from last year at this time.  That being said, I am stunned by the number of "good buys" out there.  We tour new homes on the market every week and I've seen some great opportunities out there.  There are more homes available to first time buyers than I've seen in years.  There are over 1,500 homes for sale in <st1:City w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Spokane</st1:place></st1:City>, right now, between $100,000 and $200,000.  A couple of years ago we struggled to find homes for buyers in that price range.  Buying a home in <st1:City w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Spokane</st1:place></st1:City> is a good financial decision.  Buying a home in <st1:City w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Spokane</st1:place></st1:City> will help stimulate several other businesses.</span></p> <p><span>If you are ready to stimulate the economy please take note of the following tips:</span></p> <p><span>   1.   CHOOSE A GOOD LENDER.  We are seeing purchases falling apart at the last minute in situations where the buyer has used an "internet" lender or a lending institution that is not very credible or well known.  Consider Windermere Mortgage who GUARANTEES your closing for example.</span></p> <p><span>   2.   HIRE A REALTOR.  Buyers agents are here to help you.  Their job is not to just find your new home.  They are in your corner to represent you and help you negotiate your purchase.  They can help you find a good lender; they can help you navigate through the home inspection process.  They help you sort through the inventory and find the right home for you.</span></p> <p><span>   3.   CONSIDER BUYING NOW.  Interest rates are great.  You have a wide selection of homes to choose from.  You may be able to negotiate to have the seller pay your closing costs.  Customer service from all entities in the real estate transaction is going to be excellent.  There are agents, lenders, title officers, closers and appraisers who are ready to help.</span></p> <div><span>Real estate will continue to be a sound investment.  Talk to your Realtor today for more information on today's buying conditions and think about helping stimulate the economy...by buying a home.  <br /> <br /> Consider putting your money into an asset that you can actually see and touch...a home.  Stocks have dropped over 800 points in the last two days.  Sellers are willing to work with buyers in rate reductions and closing costs being paid.  Find a good lender who you can discuss some creative options with.  It may be a bit more difficult to get a loan but there are loans being made and homes being sold.  Until homes start selling steadily again, you can expect all the headlines to continue doom and gloom.</span> <div> </div> <div>Here is a link to an interesting video from the Today Show...if you have a few minutes I would recommend watching it.  <font face="Arial" color="blue" size="3"><span style="font-size: 12pt; color: blue; font-family: Arial"><a href="http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/26772985#26772985 "><font face="Arial" color="blue" size="3"><span style="font-size: 12pt; color: blue; font-family: Arial">Sept. 18: TODAY financial editor Jean <span class="SpellE">Chatzky</span>, real estate agent Barbara Corcoran and CNBC’s Sharon Epperson answer viewers’ financial questions.</span></font></a></span></font> </div> </div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/09/17/want-to-stimulate-the-economy" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/09/17/want-to-stimulate-the-economy#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/09/17/want-to-stimulate-the-economyWed, 17 Sep 2008 15:44:00 GMTSpokane Market August Datahttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/09/05/spokane-market-august-data<font face="Times-Roman" size="2"> <div align="justify">August numbers are in.  August, as is typical, showed slower closed sales.  Our monthly average for closed sales for the year in Spokane is 431.  Home prices are holding stable ( down only 1.8% from a year ago ) and inventory continues to be healthy.  </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="color: #000080">News Flash!  With the US Government taking control of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac we may see a drop in long term interest rates.  I've already heard from several Mortgage Lenders who are anxious to get the word out.  With this announcement, pricing is very good today on home loans.  If you are a buyer you should contact your lender for an update on pricing and you may be able to lock a new rate before you head to closing!</span></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="color: #000080">If you are coming into the market as a buyer your timing is fantastic!  Let's get out there and buy some homes before the snow flies on Spokane!</span></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="center">Here are the numbers for August!</div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">August closed residential sales totaled 473. This total is down from 586 closed sales reported last month and down from 708 closed sales in August 2007. The average sales price for August was $203,493 and the median price was $185,000.</div> <p align="justify">Year to date sales continue to lag behind last year. Through August closed sales total 3,454. The average sales price through August is $208,300 down 1.8% from one year ago. The median sales price of closed sales through August is $185,500 compared to $186,000 over the same period last year.</p> <p align="justify">Inventory as of this report is up slightly from last month. Compared to last year the inventory is up approximately 7%</p> <div align="justify">Sales of newly constructed homes totaled 74 in August up one from the 73 closed sales in July.</div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="center">Spokane Association of Realtors ~ Residential Site Built and Condos in Spokane County</div> </font><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/09/05/spokane-market-august-data" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/09/05/spokane-market-august-data#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/09/05/spokane-market-august-dataMon, 08 Sep 2008 10:41:00 GMTNeed More Room?http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/08/19/need-more-room<div align="justify">Still scratching my head...Rates are low, Inventory is Great, Sellers want to sell, Buyers can get a tax credit...why isn't there a line outside our door?  Actually, homes are selling.  We have an agent who had two listings sell last week with multiple offers.  Come on buyers!  Now is the time to buy.  Donald Trump even said now is a good time to buy on Good Morning America!   Here is a <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=5562889&page=1">link to the video</a>.</div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">For those of you who Need More Room or are considering a move, here's a cute card.</div> <div align="justify"><img alt="Spokane Valley Real Estate" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/Need_More_Room.jpg" width="580" align="left" height="375" /></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">Families grow, needs change, and the home you bought yesterday may not be the right fit for you today. Whether you need more space in the house or in the yard, we can help you find what youre looking for at a price you can afford. Why not give us a call and take a look to see what is on the market that may suit your needs better?</div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/08/19/need-more-room" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/08/19/need-more-room#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/08/19/need-more-roomTue, 26 Aug 2008 13:11:00 GMTBuyer Tax Credit - Now is the Time To Buyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/08/11/buyer-tax-credit-now-is-the-time-to-buy<div><img src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/tax_credit.jpg" width="580" align="left" alt="" /></div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div>Below are some links you may find useful!</div> <div> </div> <div>The first is an article in the <a href="http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/realestate/2008086783_harney03.html">Seattle Times</a></div> <div> </div> <div>The second is a link to the <a href="http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/">Homebuilders Association</a></div> <div> </div> <div>Here is a link from <a href="http://www.warealtor.org/government/realtor_advocate/Opportunity_knocking.pdf">Washington Association of Realtors</a></div> <div> </div> <div>Take a peek at these articles and call your Realtor.  You should be able to take advantage of this new legislation!</div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/08/11/buyer-tax-credit-now-is-the-time-to-buy" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/08/11/buyer-tax-credit-now-is-the-time-to-buy#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/08/11/buyer-tax-credit-now-is-the-time-to-buyMon, 11 Aug 2008 14:08:00 GMTSpokane Market Data ~ July 2008http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/08/06/spokane-market-data-july-2008<div>I've just returned from my 20 year High School Reunion.  WOW.  What a blast.  I had not seen several of my classmates for 20 years.  It is amazing to me how many memories come flashing back when you see their faces.</div> <div> </div> <div>I was also able to spend some time fly fishing in the Bitterroot River.  It was great because usually when we get back to Montana it is later in the year and the water is too low.  Not this year, with our heavy snowfall this winter and our late Spring the water was up and the fish were biting.  Take a look at this...</div> <div> </div> <div><img style="width: 300px; height: 400px;" alt="Spokane Valley Realtor" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/dude_w_fish.JPG" width="300" align="left" border="0" height="400" /></div> <div> </div> <font size="2" face="Times-Roman"> <div align="center">Here is the latest on Spokane's Real Estate Market.</div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="center">Homes are still selling and inventory remains healthy.  I'm still wondering where all the buyers are?!?  There are some great buys out there for buyers.  More and more sellers are offering some great incentives to buyers.  Consider this, if you are a buyer and you want to make your payment a bit easier to swallow, ask the seller to buy down the interest rate for you.  Sellers are also willing to pay closing costs.  Give us a call or talk to your agent for more ideas! </div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="center">I'm anxious to see how August numbers look.  We usually see a surge in the late summer and fall here in Spokane.  July usually is a bit slower because everyone seems to go on vacation.  I'll keep you posted.</div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="center">Spokane MLS Data - Residential and Site Built Condos on less than 1 acre.</div> <div align="center"><br /> Closed residential sales totaled 586 for July. This total is down six sales from June and down 133 sales or 18.5% from July 2007. The average sales price for July was $221,658 and the median price was $190,385.</div> <p align="center">Year to date sales continue to lag behind last year. Through July closed sales total 2,980. The average sales price stands at $209,092 down slightly more than 1% when compared to last year, while the median price is up slightly at $185,830.</p> <p align="center">Inventory as of this report is up 34 properties compared to last month. Compared to last year at this time the inventory is up 11.1% or 345 properties.</p> <p align="center">Sales of newly constructed homes totaled 73 for July.</p> </font><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/08/06/spokane-market-data-july-2008" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/08/06/spokane-market-data-july-2008#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/08/06/spokane-market-data-july-2008Wed, 06 Aug 2008 08:27:00 GMTSpokane Market Up 21% over Mayhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/07/09/spokane-market-up-21-over-may<font face="Times-Roman" size="2"><font face="Helvetica" size="4"><span style="font-size: 12pt"> <div align="left">Here is the latest information from the Spokane Association of Realtors.  As I predicted in a previous post, sales are continuing to happen...yahoo!  Buyers are starting to chomp through the current inventory which is a welcome sign. <br /> <br /> Spokane Association of REALTORS ~ June 2008 Residential Site Built and Condos on less than 1 acre.</div> </span></font><font face="Helvetica" size="4"></font> <p align="center"><strong>Closed residential sales reported in June are up 21% over May</strong>. There were 592 closed sales reported in June compared to 489 reported for May. The average sales price for June was $216,454 compared to $206,284 for last month. The median price for June was $193,000 compared to $183,000 for May.</p> <p align="center">Year to date sales continue to run behind last year. Through June there have been 2,394 closed sales of residential properties on less than one acre. The median sales price is up approximately 1% at $184,275.</p> <p align="center">Inventory is up approximately 2% or 68 residential properties compared to same period last month. Compared to last year the inventory is up 17.8% or 516 properties.</p> <p align="center">New construction sales totaled 87 in June up 9 compared to May.</p> </font><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/07/09/spokane-market-up-21-over-may" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/07/09/spokane-market-up-21-over-may#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/07/09/spokane-market-up-21-over-mayWed, 09 Jul 2008 16:16:00 GMTHow Important is Curb Appeal?http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/07/09/how-important-is-curb-appeal<div>We just returned from our vacation in the South Puget Sound.  It was wonderful!  There is something about fresh clams, mussels, oysters and crab that just makes everything seem right.  Back here in Spokane we still are selling homes, still listing homes and still competing with inventory.  So, Sellers, this one is for you.</div> <div> </div> <div>In previous blog posts, I've taked about home staging and curb appeal for Open Houses.  The same holds true for Sellers who have listed their homes for sale.</div> <div> </div> <div>What I've been telling our listing agents here is this:  Because buyers have so many options right now, your Seller's home must have some sizzle.  Including the curb appeal.  Somehow we need to make the Buyer <strong><em>slow down</em></strong> when they are driving by!  You want the buyer to say, "I want to see inside that one!"</div> <div> </div> <div align="center"><strong>Here are some tips to consider.</strong></div> <div> </div> <div>Landscape lighting adds ambiance, illuminates pathways and highlights plants and shrubs. Consider planting for each season, which will prevent your yard from appearing dead and desolate. Inexpensive planters or unique containers can add depth and texture to porches and driveways. Make sure to do your research before you paint the exterior of your home; walk or drive neighborhoods, take note of what you like and envision those colors with your current lighting, trim and siding. For more information on how to increase curb appeal and prepare your home for sale, please give us a call!</div> <div> </div> <div><img src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/curbappeal.jpg" width="580" align="left" alt="" /></div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/07/09/how-important-is-curb-appeal" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/07/09/how-important-is-curb-appeal#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/07/09/how-important-is-curb-appealWed, 09 Jul 2008 14:43:00 GMTCreate an Outdoor Living Space!http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/06/26/create-an-outdoor-living-space<div align="center">The Great Outdoors</div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">Next week I'm headed to the South Puget Sound here in Washington.  On the agenda...hanging out with the in-laws, chilling with the kids, setting crab pots, hopefully catching a salmon or two and just enjoying the summer weather.  I will be sitting on the beach, hanging out on the deck and even sleeping in a tent! With that thought in mind, here is a little something for you to consider.  I hope wherever you are while you are reading this, you are enjoying the great outdoors!</div> <div> </div> <div>This is for you home buyers and home sellers:</div> <div><span><br /> Patios and decks are more popular than ever as outdoor entertainment areas. You can turn your outdoor space into a great place for guests with a few simple changes. For example, if you have close neighbors or a wide-open yard, create walls for an intimate area using plants or an arbor. And just as you'd pick a color scheme for an indoor room, let nature inspire you with earthtone furnishings and maybe a fountain. If you'd like to expand your entertaining options even further like to a new house give us a call. We can help you find just the right property for all your entertaining needs.</span></div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div><img alt="Spokane Valley Outdoor Living" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/XpressImage.jpg" width="580" align="left" height="375" /></div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/06/26/create-an-outdoor-living-space" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/06/26/create-an-outdoor-living-space#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/06/26/create-an-outdoor-living-spaceThu, 26 Jun 2008 09:14:00 GMTSpokane Market Trends ~ May 2008http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/06/23/spokane-market-trends-may-2008<div align="center">Spokane Market Heating Up!</div> <div align="center"> </div> <div>Here is a chart showing our Spokane Market Trends.  This chart reflects single family homes, including new construction in Spokane County.  As you can see we are certainly starting to see more closed sales!  </div> <div> </div> <div>Once again, it amazes me that there are not more buyers coming into the marketplace.  If you are a buyer I would be watching interest rates, getting approved for a loan and looking for your new home.</div> <div> </div> <div>Given the activity in our office I would imagine that June 2008 will continue the upward trend of Pended and Sold homes.  I spoke with one agent this morning who had 15 groups through her open house this weekend.</div> <div> </div> <div>If anyone is interested I'd be happy to e mail you this chart and the other data that comes with it.  Just zap me at <a href="mailto:carlpeterson@windermere.com">carlpeterson@windermere.com</a>  </div> <div><img height="360" alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/Maytrnds2.jpg" width="432" align="center" border="0" /></div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/06/23/spokane-market-trends-may-2008" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/06/23/spokane-market-trends-may-2008#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/06/23/spokane-market-trends-may-2008Mon, 23 Jun 2008 09:05:00 GMTSelling Homes in Spokane - May Datahttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/06/09/selling-homes-in-spokane-may-data<div>Wow...I know it has been a while since I've posted.  #1 reason...we've been busy selling homes and getting used to our new Statewide Forms.  </div> <div> </div> <div>The last week in April we started to see a pretty significant increase in activity.  The month of May was steady and I've spoken to other Brokers in Spokane who have noticed a steady increase in sales.  While we are behind last year's numbers we are still continuing an upward trend!  Below is the report through May 2008.</div> <div> </div> <font face="Helvetica" size="4"> <div align="center">Spokane Association of REALTORS<br /> </font><font face="Helvetica" size="4">Residential Report</font></div> <div align="center"><strong><font face="Helvetica-Bold">Residential Site Built and Condo in Spokane County</div> </strong></font><font face="Helvetica" size="2"> <p align="center">(On less than one acre)</p> </font><font face="Helvetica" size="3"> <p align="center"><strong>MAY HOME SALES MARKET ACTIVITY</strong></p> </font><strong><font face="Helvetica-Bold" size="1"> <p align="left"></strong></font> <p align="left"><font face="Helvetica" size="1"></p> <div></font><font face="Times-Roman" size="2">May sales were up 10.9% over April as sales continue an upward trend. There were 489 sales reported in May compared to 441 reported in April. The average sales price was up 1.3% from April. Mays average sales price was $206,284 while the median sales price was $183,000. <br /> <br /> Year to date sales continue to run behind last year. Through May there have been 1,803 closed sales reported.</div> <p align="left">The average sales price through May stands at $202,626 down 2.6% from the same period last year while the median price is the same as last year at $180,000.</p> <p align="left">Inventory is up 136 properties when compared to last month. The inventory as of this report is 3,354.</p> <div align="left">New construction sales totaled 78 in May down slightly from Aprils total of 82.</div> <div> </div> <div>Stay tuned for more information!</div> </font><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/06/09/selling-homes-in-spokane-may-data" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/06/09/selling-homes-in-spokane-may-data#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/06/09/selling-homes-in-spokane-may-dataMon, 09 Jun 2008 16:16:00 GMTSpokane Real Estate - Trending Upwardhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/05/07/spokane-real-estate-trending-upward<div>Here is the latest from the Spokane Association of Realtors.  As you can see below, our market is starting to warm up!  Spokane continues to be a stable place to live, work and play.  While we are seeing longer market times and fewer showings on listed properties, buyers are still buying homes.  I started to see a stronger spike in activity towards the end of April.<img alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/GAYLE.jpg" width="400" align="left" />  My biggest worry is that buyers will miss out on a great time to buy.  It seems like buyers are confused by mixed messages they are getting through the media.  The fact is that people have and will always buy homes.  Take a look at today's interest rates and tell me now is not a good time to buy.</div> <div> </div> <div>According to Maria Burton at Windermere Mortgage Services today's rates look like this:</div> <div> </div> <div>Conventional 30 year fixed 5.875%</div> <div>FHA 30 year fixed 5.875</div> <div>Conventional 15 year fixed 5.375%</div> <div> </div> <div>These are fantastic rates!  While home prices have slid deep in some areas we are not seeing that kind of decline.  If you read below, the average sales price in Spokane has dropped only 2.7%.  This is a good thing for buyers and sellers!  Some buyers are afraid to buy now because they think the prices are going to drop further.  Well let me ask you this?  What if they don't - but the interest rates increase?  How much will the $10,000 you save with a price reduction cost you if you have to pay a higher interest rate?</div> <div> </div> <div>Don't make your buying decision based on something you hear in the media.  Hitting the seller with a low offer and asking for closing costs to be paid is not going to get you the home.  Historically in Spokane ( since the dinosaurs ) there has been a 2 - 3% concession given by sellers.  Not 5%, not 10%, not 15%.</div> <div> </div> <div>Our 2.7% price drop falls right in line with what we've seen here forever.  Talk to your Realtor, or call us and we can advise you.  Our local market is heating up and I don't want buyers to miss such a remarkable time to buy.  Buyers have prime buying conditions at their fingertips:  Great Rates, Good Inventory, and Seller who want to sell!</div> <div> </div> <font face="Helvetica-Bold"> <div align="center"><strong>Residential Site Built and Condo in Spokane County<br /> </strong></font><font face="Helvetica" size="2"><strong>(On less than one acre)</strong></div> </font><font face="Helvetica" size="3"> <div align="center"><strong>APRIL HOME SALES MARKET ACTIVITY</strong></div> </font> <div> </div> <font face="Times-Roman" size="2"> <p align="justify"><strong>Sales in April continue the positive upward trend. There were 441 closed sales reported in the month of April which is up 17.3% over March. The average sales price for April was $203,562 and the median price was $183,500.</strong></p> <p align="justify"><strong>Year to date sales continue at a slower pace than the previous few years. Through April there have been 1,311 closed sales reported. The average sales price through the first four months of 2008 was $201,386 which is down 2.7% from the same period last year and the median price was $180,000 up slightly from $179,500 over the same period in 2007.</strong></p> <p align="justify"><strong>Inventory has increased over last month by 174 properties to 3,218 as of this report.</strong></p> <div align="justify"><strong>New construction sales increased significantly over last month to 82 reported sales this month compared to 61 in March.</strong> <div> </div> <div> </div> </div> </font><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/05/07/spokane-real-estate-trending-upward" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/05/07/spokane-real-estate-trending-upward#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/05/07/spokane-real-estate-trending-upwardWed, 07 May 2008 11:45:00 GMTSpokane Real Estate - Open Houseshttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/23/spokane-real-estate-open-houses<div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana">Every Home Has A Story!<br /> <br /> That is why many Sellers and Realtors are fans of <em>Open Houses</em>.  <br />  <img style="width: 217px; height: 185px" height="185" alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/open_house_icon_k.jpg" width="217" align="left" /> <br /> <br /> <br /> An Open House gives the buying public the opportunity to see, smell, touch, hear and feel a home they just may fall in love with.  <br /> <br /> In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors, more than 52% of buyers use Open Houses as an information source when looking for a home!<br /> </div> <div align="justify"><br /> <span style="font-family: Verdana">Most home buyers are emotional buyers.  They buy a home because it "feels" right.  They also buy a home because it has the features and amentites they are looking for.   An Open House gives the buyer a chance to use their five senses to explore the home.  A buyer can look at 100 pictures of a home, but nothing beats a tour with their agent or an Open House.  <br /> <br /> And, the agent holding the home open can answer questions about other homes available in the neighborhood, give you directions to other open houses, and tell you where all the closest amenties are.  Things like schools, libraries, bus routes, shopping, resaurants, etc.</span></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana">Here are some Open House tips for Sellers and some reasons to attend Open Houses for buyers.</span></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong>Sellers:</strong></span></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana">Guess what?  Buyers are picky.  There are probably some irritating things about your home that you have just become accustomed to.  Like, a leaky faucet, peeling paint, missing lightbulbs, batteries missing in smoke detectors...you understand where I'm going with this.  As a seller you may have forgotten about these things but an "eagle eye" buyer will certainly notice them. <img alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/wooddeck.jpg" width="98" align="right" /> <br /> <br /> Let's start with the "first impression" or <strong>Curb Appeal</strong>.  Imagine driving to your home if you were the buyer.  How would you feel about a cluttered driveway, garden hoses spread across the lawn, tools or toys scattered about?  Prepare for a good first impression by adding fresh bark to bare areas in flower beds.  Plant some new "yellow" flowers near the entrace of the home - yellow attracts the eye and makes visitors feel welcome.</span> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong>Entryway:</strong>  Studies have shown that pleasant scent causes people to stay longer and have a better experience.  Scented candles, especially cinammon, apple pie, or other freshly baked scents work best.  Other ideas; remove clutter, throw down a new rug, add flowers or art to create a welcome entrance.</span> <img style="width: 236px; height: 177px" height="177" alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/SANDRA.jpg" width="236" align="left" /> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong>Living Room:</strong>  Again, remove clutter, start packing personal items.  Arrange your furniture for easy movement through your homes.  You may even remove some of the extra furniture.  Seasonal accent items like flowers, a cozy blanket in fall or winter, or eye-catching throw pillows for spring and summer.</span></div> <div><span style="font-family: Verdana"> </span></div> <div><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong>Bathroom:</strong> Remove anything from the bathrooms that does not fit the image of a luxury hotel bathroom.  Add new towels, empty the garbage, hang a new, white shower curtain and maybe a white area rug.  Place scented candles or aroma sticks in the room.  Remove everything but hand soap and guest towels from the counters.  </span></div> <div><span style="font-family: Verdana"> </span></div> <div><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong>Kitchen and Dining Area:</strong>  Make it sparkle and shine.  Add flowers, fresh coffee, water bottles or maybe some candies.<img alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/sink.jpg" width="108" align="left" />  Remove extra appliances from your counters.  Take down all the</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana">artwork, calendars and pictures from the refrigerator.</span> </div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong>Closets:</strong>  Start packing.  Try to fill the closets to only 50% capacity and hang all clothing on matching hangers.  Put all the shoes away.  Remove all objects from the floor and shelves.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong>Master Bedroom:</strong>  Neutral colors work best.  Including the bedspread.  Clear the tops of dressers, night stands and headboard.  Open up windows to show how light, bright and cherry the room is.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong>Outdoors:</strong>  Maximize the benefits of your outdoor living space.  Declutter the entry, patio, and deck.  Try to pick up tools, hoses and toys.  Create a simple seating area with one or two chairs and a table.  Make sure your landscaping is dialed in.  Pull weeds, add fresh bark, mow the lawn.<img style="width: 313px; height: 235px" height="235" alt="" src="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/images/ImageStoreCANSTL2Z.jpg" width="313" align="left" /></span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong>Garage:</strong>  Declutter.  Treat the garage space as you would the inside of the home.  Make sure it is clean and inviting.</span></div> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana"><br /> <br /> <strong>Buyers:</strong></span> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana">The most common way to find Open Houses is to follow the signs you see on Saturday's and Sundays.  As the weather warms, you may start seeing Open Houses on weeknights!  You can also find Windermere Open Houses on the websites listed below.</span></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana">Many times, buyers will drive to the Open House, but not go in!  Buyers, please head on in.  The Realtor is not going to "bite".  This is your opportunity to really get a feel for the home.  Remember the saying, "You can't judge a book by it's cover"?  Go on in and enjoy yourself!</span></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana">Windermere works hard to bring buyers and sellers together through Open Houses.  </span></div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana">You can see scheduled Open Houses at:</span> <div> </div> <div><a href="http://www.windermere.com"><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong><span style="color: #000080">www.windermere.com</span></strong></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong><span style="color: #000080"> </span></strong></span></div> <div><strong><span style="color: #000080"> </span></strong></div> <div><a href="http://www.windermerespokane.com"><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong><span style="color: #000080">www.windermerespokane.com</span></strong></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong><span style="color: #000080"> </span></strong></span></div> <div><strong><span style="color: #000080"> </span></strong></div> <div><span style="font-family: Verdana"><span style="font-family: Verdana"><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong><span style="color: #000080">and </span></strong></span><a href="http://www.windermerespokanevalley.com/"><span style="font-family: Verdana"><strong><span style="color: #000080">www.windermerespokanevalley.com</span></strong></span></a> </span></span></div> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana"> </span></div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana"> </span></div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana">We also feature Open Houses on the <a href="http://63.134.216.40/video/spokane.wmv"><strong style="color: #000080">Windermere TV Show</strong></a>, which airs each Sunday at 11:30 on Channel 22.</span> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-family: Verdana">Thanks for reading and I hope we see you soon at our Open Houses!</span></div> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-family: Verdana"> </span></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <p> </p> <div><br /> </div> </span> <div> </div> <div> </div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/23/spokane-real-estate-open-houses" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/23/spokane-real-estate-open-houses#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/23/spokane-real-estate-open-housesThu, 24 Apr 2008 10:41:00 GMTSpokane Real Estate - Articleshttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/23/spokane-real-estate-articles<div align="center"><em><strong>Here is an interesting article from yesterday's USA Today.  "Diversified economy helps Spokane prices hold up"</strong></em></div> <div align="center"><em><strong></strong></em> </div> <em><strong style="color: red"><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/15/business/15homes.html?ex=1203742800&en=fffa6c69ae21e350&ei=5070&emc=eta1"> <div align="center"><em><strong style="color: red">CLICK HERE!</strong> <div> </div> <div><strong></strong> </div> </em></div> </a></strong></em><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/23/spokane-real-estate-articles" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/23/spokane-real-estate-articles#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/23/spokane-real-estate-articlesWed, 23 Apr 2008 13:40:00 GMTAccording to U HAUL - People are Moving to Spokanehttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/15/according-to-u-haul-people-are-moving-to-spokane<div align="center"><strong><em>According to UHAUL - Spokane is number 14 in top growth cities.<br /> <br /> </em></strong><span style="color: red"><a href="http://metrospokane.typepad.com/index/2008/04/people-still-mi.html"><span style="color: red">Click this link to read the blog posting on MetroSpokane!</span></a></span></div><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/15/according-to-u-haul-people-are-moving-to-spokane" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/15/according-to-u-haul-people-are-moving-to-spokane#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/15/according-to-u-haul-people-are-moving-to-spokaneTue, 15 Apr 2008 14:15:00 GMTSpokane Market Update ~ March 2008http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/11/spokane-market-update-march-2008<font face="Times-Roman" size="2"> <div align="center">Buyers and Sellers Check This Out.  Sales are trending UP through March!  We've been seeing a lot more activity in the office.  Conference Rooms are hosting clients and our agents are out selling homes.  As you can see below, inventory is up and prices are staying stable.  You cannot beat the interest rates so take advantage of these conditions and consider buying your dream home.</div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="center">Take a look at the BLOG posting from March 22nd ~ Homes are selling in Spokane</div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="center"><em>Information Courtesy of Spokane Association of Realtors</em><br />  </div> <div align="center">March closed sales activity continued an upward trend for the second month with 376 closed sales reported.</div> <p align="center">This number is up 83 sales over February or 28%. The average sales price in March was $197,110 and the median price was $177,875.</p> <p align="center">1</font><font face="Times-Roman" size="1">st </font><font face="Times-Roman" size="2">Quarter sales are down 458 compared to last years 1</font><font face="Times-Roman" size="1">st </font><font face="Times-Roman" size="2">Quarter. The average selling price for the 1</font><font face="Times-Roman" size="1">st </font><font face="Times-Roman" size="2">Quarter is $200,363 down slightly from last years 1</font><font face="Times-Roman" size="1">st </font><font face="Times-Roman" size="2">Quarter average selling price of $202,271. Median 1</font><font face="Times-Roman" size="1">st </font><font face="Times-Roman" size="2">Quarter price is up 1.7% over last years figure, $177,898 compared to $175,000.</p> <p align="center">Inventory topped 3,000 standing at 3,044 as of this report. Last year at this time the inventory stood at 2,334 and last month the inventory was 2,778.</p> <div align="center">New construction closed sales totaled 62 for the month with the average price of $276,102.</div> <div> </div> <div> </div> </font><P><a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/11/spokane-market-update-march-2008" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/11/spokane-market-update-march-2008#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Windermere Real Estate Valleyhttp://windermerespokanevalley.com/blog/2008/04/11/spokane-market-update-march-2008Fri, 11 Apr 2008 21:10:00 GMT