Sabrina Telles, Author at Sabrina Sells Idaho

Things to do in Twin Falls May 2024

Community, Relocating, Twin Falls / May 6, 2024

Are you looking for fun things to do in Twin Falls, ID, and the surrounding Magic Valley? I have you covered! I cannot believe that May has arrived here in Twin Falls, but truth be told, I couldn’t be more excited! This is one of my favorite seasons. The days are getting longer, everything is in bloom, and the activities I’ve missed during winter are finally returning.

Read on for various things to do in Twin Falls this month!

Things to do in Twin Falls this month:

Grand Opening Roots Nursery
Mother’s Day at Holesinsky Winery
Murder at the Manor – Murder Mystery Dinner
The Idaho Summit 2024
Beginner Pottery Wheel Class
8th Annual Body, Mind, and Spirit Expo
Live Music with Layne Bowen
Vintage Vixen’s Market

Grand Opening Roots Nursery

Time: 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

Date: Saturday, May 11th

Location: 3278 E 3700 N, Kimberly, ID

One of the first things to do in Twin Falls this month is to join Roots Nursery for their grand opening on May 11th, just before Mother’s Day. Their ribbon-cutting ceremony starts at 10 A.M. sharp. You can expect food trucks, raffles, prizes, a bounce house for kids, and exclusive discounts for their event.

They will have Tacos El Guey, That’s How We Roll, and Glazed Over for their grand opening. Depot Grill will also be there, serving drinks at a no-host bar. They will have amazing raffle prizes from the HWY 30 Music Fest and Elite Details!

This event will be a lot of fun, and you don’t want to miss it! Learn more.

Steal This!

Mother's Day at Holesinsky Winery

Time: 12:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.

Date: Sunday, May 12th

Location: Holesinsky Winery, 1498 Valley Steppe Dr., Buhl, ID

Mothers make the world go round, so celebrate them on Sunday, May 12th, Mother’s Day, at Holesinsky Winery from 12–7 pm!

The ever-so-talented Avery Soloaga will kick off the tunes from 12-3 pm, then Aaron Golay will be on the stage from 4-7 pm. Bring a blanket and the kids to enjoy their spacious lawn. They will have an extra large bounce house, crafts for the kids, a petting zoo, a balloon artist, and a mechanical bull – all free with entry! They will have Pizza Antico food truck and El Matador Food Truck there.

Join them and our mothers for a relaxing day where mothers will be catered to. Tickets are $20 per person, kids are free! A screen-printed wine glass keepsake comes included with each ticket. Learn more.

Murder at the Manor - Murder Mystery Dinner

Time: 6:00 P.M.

Date: Tuesday, May 14th

Location: Stone House & Co, 330 4th Avenue South, Twin Falls, ID

If you’re looking for a new thing to do in Twin Falls- this could be a great opportunity! It’s 1920 and you are cordially invited to an exclusive evening of intrigue and revelry!

“Dear Esteemed Guest,

You are invited to a grand affair as we welcome Dr. and Mrs. DeLaRue to Twin Falls in true high-society style. Join us for an evening of opulence and merriment, as we embark on a journey of mystery and camaraderie.

The evening promises to be filled with delightful games and entertainment, where every whisper holds a secret and every gesture conceals a clue. But be warned, this is no ordinary soirée. It is an opportunity for you, our esteemed guests, to prove your worthiness to be invited into The Practice, a society of esteemed individuals who uphold the highest standards of sophistication and discretion.

We eagerly anticipate your presence at this prestigious event.

Yours sincerely,

Stone House & Co and The Escapuary”

This event will include a Prime Rib buffet and gameplay. An additional cash bar will be available to guests. Learn more.

The Idaho Summit 2024

Time: 8:00 A.M.

Date: Wednesday, May 15th

Location: CSI Fine Art Auditorium, 315 Falls Avenue, Twin Falls

Join them on May 15th for The Idaho Summit’s fourth annual event. This year’s theme is “The Value of Vision.”

The 2024 Summit is about casting a vision for where you want your future to lead, planning steps to get there, and finding your motivation to follow through and see it to the end!

The Idaho Summit is Idaho’s premier personal and professional development experience. Get ready to enjoy a day filled with valuable lessons from nationally renowned speakers with plenty of opportunities throughout the day to network with other attendees. VIPs get to join this year’s speakers for an exclusive meet-and-greet event the night before the event!

Get your tickets today and learn more.

Beginner Pottery Wheel Class

Time: 6:00 P.M. – 7:30 P.M.

Date: Friday, May 12th

Location: Hands On, 147 Shoshone St. N, Twin Falls, ID

Are looking for a new thing to do in Twin Falls? Have you wanted to dabble in throwing on the pottery wheel? Hands On has what you need! Come and get muddy while learning a new skill. Cost includes instruction, three pounds of clay (approximately 2-3 pieces), firing, and glazing. Learn more.

8th Annual Body, Mind, and Spirit Expo

Date: Saturday and Sunday, May 18th – May 19th

Location: Best Western Plus Burley Inn & Convention Center, 800 N Overland Avenue, Burley, ID

Southern Idaho’s Largest Holistic Healing and Spiritual Event was created to allow people to experience new modalities and find ways to feel better than they currently do; physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.

Inside this event, you will find many businesses offering services in the form of mini sessions to allow you to experience new modalities and bond with several new practitioners.

You will also find diverse readers to find insight and guidance. There will be several booths offering handmade items such as jewelry, skincare, art, decor, resin products, and more. Learn more.

Live Music with Layne Bowen

Time: 7:30 P.M.

Date: Tuesday, May 21st

Location: Milner’s Gate, 205 Shoshone Street North, Twin Falls, ID

Always an enjoyable thing to do in Twin Falls is to enjoy one of the many local talented artists. Stop by at Milner’s Gate and enjoy some craft beer, a cocktail, and a meal and enjoy a great evening. Learn more.

Vintage Vixen's Market

Time: 10:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.

Date: Friday, May 31st

Location: Twin Falls County Fairgrounds, 215 Fair Avenue, Filer, ID

The Vintage Vixens Market is a vintage-inspired shopping event held twice a year at the Twin Falls County Fairgrounds in Filer, Idaho. It showcases over 140 curators and artists offering a diverse range of unique vintage goods, antiques, repurposed and upcycled finds, distressed and mid-century furniture, shabby chic decor, handcrafted items, jewelry, clothing boutiques for women and children, along with live music, food trucks, homemade treats, and more. It’s an opportunity for families and friends to enjoy a fun weekend of shopping and treasure hunting. Learn more about this fun shopping event!

Hi, I'm Sabrina!

I’m your local Twin Falls real estate agent and soon-to-be friend in real estate! Whether you’re selling or buying, I am here to help my clients achieve their real estate goals. Through strong client advocacy, skillful marketing techniques, exceptional communication, and proven systems, I strive to make my client’s experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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Applying For a Twin Falls Mortgage: 6 Documents You’ll Likely Need

Buying, Twin Falls / April 29, 2024

If you’re applying for a Twin Falls mortgage, it’s a good idea to start by organizing your financial documents. Most lenders will require various forms of documentation for your mortgage application, read on to learn more about the documents required.

Tax Returns

When you apply for a mortgage loan, the lenders and banks want to know your complete financial story and will examine all aspects of your financial life.

Depending on your employment status, the lenders usually ask for one to two years’ worth of tax returns. The main objective of this requirement is to verify that your annual income is consistent with your reported earnings, and that there are no significant fluctuations in your income from year to year.

Steal This!

Paystubs, W-2s, or other proof of income

When you apply for a loan, your lender will likely ask you to provide your paystubs from the previous month or so. Although your tax returns can provide an overview of your income and financial status, paystubs help lenders determine your current earnings and ensure that everything is in order.

If you have any additional sources of income, such as social security benefits, investment or rental income, a side hustle, or child support, your lender will want additional documentation for those.

Credit Report

In order to gauge you as a borrower, your lender will likely pull your credit report (with your written permission).

Different loan programs will have different qualifications as far as your credit score and history.

FHA loans – This type of loan is commonly known as the first-time homebuyer loan, but you don’t need to be a first-time buyer to use it always. These loans are backed by the government and require a minimum credit score of 500 to be approved. However, your credit score will also affect your down payment. If your score is below 580, you will need to put down 10%, whereas if it’s above that, you can generally put down as little as 3.5%.
VA loans – VA loans don’t require a certain credit score to qualify so individual lenders can set their requirements. Low credit scores are likely easier to get away with on a VA loan than a conventional loan.
USDA loans – Another government backed loan program, there aren’t set credit requirements from USDA. Also, this is a zero-down program is popular in more rural areas (outside Twin Falls City generally).
Conventional loans – Conventional loans are not government-backed loan programs and will likely require a credit score of at least 620 and around the mid-700s to qualify for better rates.
Jumbo loans – The credit requirements for jumbo loans are typically the strictest because of their large amounts. You may need a score in the low-to-mid 700s or above to qualify.

Bank Statements

When evaluating your risk profile, lenders will review your bank statements, investments, and insurance assets.

Lenders require borrowers to have reserve funds to cover mortgage payments for several months in case of an emergency. Additionally, they verify that the down payment money has been in the borrower’s account for a while and did not just appear recently.

Gift letters (if receiving gifted funds)

If you are receiving a gift from family or friends to purchase your home, the lender will require a letter confirming that the funds are a gift, not a loan.

The letter will need to state a variety of things, such as the person’s relationship to you, the amount of money, signatures, etc. Your lender will give you the exact requirements.

Photo ID

As with any major purchase or process, you will need to provide a form of photo ID, such as a driver’s license, to verify your identity.

I hope this helped you get a better understanding of what you’ll need for applying for a Twin Falls mortgage loan.

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Things You Need To Know Before Moving To Kimberly, Idaho

Buying, Kimberly, Relocating / April 23, 2024

If you want to live in Twin Falls County but prefer a more relaxed lifestyle, you may consider moving to Kimberly, Idaho. It’s situated just over six miles away from Twin Falls, giving you access to all the amenities without the hustle and bustle, traffic, and noise.

Learn about about Kimberly from a local’s perspective, and what to know before moving or relocating there below.

Top 5 Things You Should Know Before Moving To Kimberly:

The location is fantastic if you want to quickly get to outdoor activities like camping, boating, hiking, etc.
The average cost of a home here tends to be higher than other parts of Twin Falls County.
There are many new construction developments in Kimberly, so you will have to deal with the mess for a while during construction.
With a population of under 5,000 people, Kimberly is a tight-knit community.
Even though Kimberly is a small town, you can find most anything you need there.

The location is fantastic if you want to quickly get to outdoor activities like camping, boating, hiking, etc.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you will not be disappointed by the easy access to many enjoyable local spots. If you want to take the boat out, kayak or paddle board, or have a BBQ or birthday party, Murtaugh Lake is only fourteen miles east of Kimberly.

For those who enjoy camping, the South Hills area is another option. It’s roughly thirty miles south of town, making it perfect for a quick trip without taking time off from work. Along with camping, you can enjoy fantastic hiking, observe wildlife, and relax in the beautiful surroundings of the Sawtooth National Forest.

Steal This!

The average cost of a home here tends to be higher than other parts of Twin Falls County.

Kimberly is a highly desirable area located in Twin Falls County. The community is small yet conveniently located near Twin Falls, and you will find many options for new construction homes. Kimberly’s proximity to Twin Falls isn’t the only advantage. It is also situated near the freeway entrance, providing easy access for those who need to travel for work.

Due to some of those factors, you may notice that housing prices in Kimberly are higher compared to the rest of Twin Falls County. In 2023, the average cost of a home in the county was around $376,000, while the average cost of a home in Kimberly was approximately $439,000.

Average Cost of Twin Falls County Homes By City For 2023:

Buhl: $342,505
Filer: $348,671
Kimberly: $439,366
Twin Falls: $373,335
Hansen: $229,492

*These statistics were provided by Intermountain MLS.

There are many new construction developments in Kimberly, so you will have to deal with the mess for a while during construction.

There are numerous new construction communities currently being developed, and more will undoubtedly follow in the years to come if you’re looking for new construction options.

New construction offers great advantages, including builder warranties, current incentives, and customization options. Schedule a call with me to learn more.

With a population of under 5,000 people, Kimberly is a tight-knit community.

When you are in Kimberly, you truly are reminded of a simpler time. Because of the low population you have that small town feel and your neighbors know and care about you.

Like the rest of the Magic Valley, moving to Kimberly presents an opportunity to forge lasting friendships. The shared experiences, community events, and local gatherings will form the basis of relationships that can endure the test of time. The feeling of belonging is tangible and adds to the charm of living in Kimberly.

Even though Kimberly is a small town, you can find most anything you need there.

As previously mentioned, Kimberly isn’t from Twin Falls. However, another perk to living in Kimberly is that you can find almost everything you need right in town. Whether you’re looking for a fantastic restaurant, shopping, dentist, doctor, or really whatever you’re looking for, it can be found nearby.

I hope this helped answer your questions about moving to Kimberly, Idaho. As always, I’m here for you if you ever want to reach out and connect.

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Twin Falls County Real Estate Market Update: February 2024

Buying, Relocating, Selling, Twin Falls / April 15, 2024

I’m looking for homeowners in Twin Falls County or anyone planning to become one, here’s what went down in March 2024 in the Twin Falls County real estate market.

Read on for helpful tips and real truths about how the current market could impact your real estate goals if you’re considering buying or selling this spring or summer.

What You Need to Know About the Twin Falls County Market:

Number of Residential Sales
Months of Inventory (MOI)
New Listings
Average Sales Price
Days on Market

Number of Residential Sales

The total number of residential sales in March reached 107, a massive 59% increase in listings sold month-over-month (MoM). I think it’s safe to say that the spring real estate market is officially heating up, and we can expect to see more of the same throughout April and May. This is the time of year when we will see the largest majority of home sales because of the favorable weather, school breaks, etc.

Steal This!

Months of Inventory

We’re still firmly situated within a seller’s market, and in Twin Falls County, the Months of Inventory (MOI) remain low, sitting at 3.19 months in March 2024.

The MOI serves as a reliable gauge of the current market dynamics and potential future trends. While a balanced market typically has about 4-6 months of inventory, we’ve consistently observed the balance tipped in favor of sellers over the past five years.

Homes that are appropriately priced, well-maintained, and strategically located continue to be in high demand. It’s not uncommon for them to attract multiple offers and secure acceptances within the first week of listing.

New Listings

Though the available inventory continues to remain low, we did see 144 new listings in Twin Falls County for March. This number is up almost 11% from last month when 130 new homes hit the market.

This number should continue to rise over the next few months as the school year comes to an end and the weather warms up. The good news for buyers is that you should have more choices available; the bad news is that homes hitting the market are being absorbed almost as quickly.

When you’re out there shopping, it’s more important than ever to have a solid idea of what you’re looking for so that when you find it, you are ready to make a move on it.

Sales Price

The median sales price for a home in Twin Falls County remained basically unchanged with a median sales price of $364,950 in March, whereas in February 2024, it was $365,000 for all single-family homes.

Looking at the prices year over year, prices continue to increase rapidly, with the median price of a home up 7.34% from $340,000 at this time in 2023. On average, homes appreciate at a rate of 3% per year; however, over the last four years, we have seen incredible gains of well over 10% annually.

Breaking it down by category, pre-existing single-family homes sold on average for $346,500, new construction for $441,957, and single-family homes with acreage sold on average for $568,750.

Days On Market

As I’ve been mentioning, this time of year is when we witness a lot of market activity. The days on the market have significantly decreased from last month. In March 2024, the average days on the market were 74 compared to 104 in February, which is a 29% decrease in days on the market month over month.

In March, the median days on market for all single-family homes sold in the county was only 30. Despite the various factors that are making housing less affordable, people are still finding ways to make it work and have reasons for moving. The competition level remains high in our local real estate market.

If you want to be a strategic seller and have a lot of showings for your property right away, it’s important to price your home correctly. This will help you sell your property quickly so that you can move on to bigger and better things.

Conclusion

Alright, so I’m sure you know what some of my concluding thoughts are for this month’s update. If you’re a buyer planning to make a move this spring or summer, it is time to get educated and prepared to ensure you have the most successful experience possible. Competition is tight out there—especially for first-timers.

As I touched on a bit last month, the Fed keeps discussing rate cuts, but currently, it doesn’t seem likely that anything is going to happen as inflation continues to grow at a pace faster than they would like to see. My personal opinion is to buckle up and get used to rates around 6% and make a plan for something you can afford at that interest rate. If/when rates do come down, great! Most lenders are offering refinances with waived or reduced fees.

Waiting for these rate drops poses a couple of different problems. Firstly, prices keep rising, practically on a monthly basis and certainly on an annual scale. If you keep putting off purchasing, by the time rates come down, the amount you save in interest will likely be offset by the increased purchase price. Secondly, when rates do drop lower, competition will inevitably increase. I’m actually relieved that the rates haven’t dropped too much yet. Currently, it’s a bit disappointing because rates are at their highest in months, but a gradual decline is necessary to avoid an influx of activity like we saw before.

Sellers, this is a great time for you if you’re willing to be strategic. Proper pricing and a well-maintained home often lead to a quick sale at or above the asking price. Depending on the type of move you’re planning to make, now could be a great time.

Again, this is all general information, and each and every situation is completely unique. I am always here to have a discussion about your real estate goals, set up a time with me to talk here. Or, if you’d like an instant home valuation, you can grab one here. Thanks for reading, I’ll catch you next month!

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What You Need To Know Before Moving To Buhl, Idaho

Buhl, Buying, Relocating / April 8, 2024

If you’re considering moving to Buhl, Idaho, it’s a great community located in Twin Falls County. However, there are a few things you should be aware of before making the move. Below are the top 5 things you should know before moving to Buhl. Keep reading to find out!

5 Things You Should Know Before Moving To Buhl:

The city of Buhl offers some of the most affordable housing options in Twin Falls County.
Some houses in the area have access to geothermal water as their water source, and there are also several hot springs to visit.
If you work in Twin Falls and have to commute from Buhl, it is a bit of a drive at roughly 25 minutes each way.
There are a lot of options for dining and entertainment in Buhl.
Known as the Trout Capital of America, Buhl has several hatcheries producing trout that go all over the world.

The city of Buhl offers some of the most affordable housing options in Twin Falls County.

The city of Buhl provides comparatively more affordable housing options than some other areas in the Magic Valley. In 2023, the average cost of a home in Twin Falls County was around $376,000, whereas in the city of Buhl, the average cost was $342,505.

Buhl offers a variety of housing options, including new constructions, pre-existing homes, farms, and homes near the river. If you’re looking for an affordable area in Twin Falls County, Buhl is worth considering.

Steal This!

Some houses in the area have access to geothermal water as their water source, and there are also several hot springs to visit.

Numerous homes in the Buhl area along the Thousand Springs Byway use geothermal water as their primary source of water for household use, pools, and hot tubs.

Miracle Hot Springs, Banbury Hot Springs, and Thousand Springs Resort all provide access to their communal pools and private rooms. These are fantastic places to decompress, unwind, and in the case of Banbury and Miracle, admire the scenic views. Apart from soaking in the hot springs, you can also find campsites, geo-domes for rent, spa services, kayak rentals, and other amenities.

If you work in Twin Falls and have to commute from Buhl, it is a bit of a drive at roughly 25 minutes each way.

If you live in Buhl and need to travel to Twin Falls for work, you should expect to spend around an hour daily commuting to and from your workplace. While this may not be too terrible for some, individuals who prefer having amenities nearby may consider Buhl a bit of a drive.

You can access local amenities like stores, restaurants, and healthcare facilities here. However, for more unique needs, you may have to travel to Twin Falls.

There are a lot of options for dining and entertainment in Buhl.

You will find an abundance of thriving local businesses based here. Buhl’s downtown is lovely, there are great views of the Snake River, and Buhl truly has so much charm.

When in town, some of my top places to visit are Cloverleaf Creamery (even though they now have a spot in Twin Falls, it’s always fun to go to the original), Holesinsky Vineyard (they have amazing events year-round and some truly spectacular wines), and just walking Main Street to explore all the different shops.

Known as the Trout Capital of America, Buhl has several hatcheries producing trout that go all over the world.

There are a variety of fish hatcheries in Buhl, some of which even offer opportunities for the community to come view and learn about the process. You can find this trout featured in many local restaurants as well.

Whether you live here or are just passing through Buhl is a treasure to explore and enjoy, I hope you get an opportunity to visit soon!

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Things To Know Before Buying A House In Twin Falls, Idaho

Buying, Relocating / April 1, 2024

If you’re buying a house in Twin Falls, Idaho, there are some things you’ll want to do before you begin your home search. Continue reading to learn the steps you’ll need to take to make your home-buying experience a breeze.

Top 5 Steps To Take Before Buying A House In Twin Falls, ID

Assess Your Finances: Build A Strong Foundation
Research Neighborhoods: Find The Best Fit
Define Your Priorities: Identify Your Must-Haves And Deal Breakers
Understand The Home Buying Process: Knowledge Is Empowering
Work With A Professional: Don’t Go It Alone

Assess Your Finances: Build A Strong Foundation

Before you start looking for a home, it’s important to focus on your finances. The first step is to meet with an experienced lender who can help you evaluate your financial situation thoroughly. This assessment will help you determine your budget by considering your income, expenses, and potential mortgage rates.

When buying a house in Twin Falls, I recommend working with a local lender and getting multiple opinions. You have a window after you begin getting pre-qualified to shop lenders; make sure you get the best rate and fees possible for yourself.

Steal This!

Research Neighborhoods: Find The Best Fit

When it comes to real estate, location is everything. Before buying a house in Twin Falls, make sure you do your research on the neighborhood. I recommend driving the neighborhood; drive it to work, the gym, your favorite restaurants, etc. Make sure it fits with the lifestyle you’re looking for. You’ll also want to consider things like other homes in the neighborhood, school districts, amenities, and more.

I also recommend visiting the area during both the daytime and nighttime; this will help ensure you get a good feel for traffic level, sound level, etc., and ensure it aligns with the lifestyle you’re looking for.

Define Your Priorities: Identify Your Must-Haves And Deal Breakers

When you start searching for a new home, it’s important to determine what matters most to you. Think about factors like the location, size, layout, and specific features that are essential for your lifestyle. If there are any deal breakers, make sure to include them on your list.

Understand The Home Buying Process: Knowledge Is Empowering

Most people aren’t buying or selling a house annually or frequently. Make sure that if it’s your first time buying a home you work with a Realtor who can help you understand the process. Even if you’ve bought before, you may still need a refresher.

If you want to learn more about the home buying process you can click here. Or, you can download my home buying guide above.

Work With A Professional: Don't Go It Alone

Whether you’re purchasing a pre-existing home or building a new one, I always recommend working with a reliable Realtor. They will look out for your best interests, ensure the paperwork is handled properly, and ensure the closing is on time. In addition to protecting your interests, in Idaho, the seller’s agent usually pays the buyer’s agent, which means that you won’t have to pay anything extra!

If you’re searching for a real estate agent, it’s important to interview multiple agents to ensure you find the right fit for you. If you are in the market to buy a home in Twin Falls, I would be delighted to have the opportunity to introduce myself and see if we could work together.

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Twin Falls Real Estate Market Update: February 2024

Uncategorized / March 25, 2024

If you’re a homeowner in Twin Falls County or planning to become one, here’s the market info you’ll need to make strategic plans as we move into the Spring real estate market. Stick around until the end so you can take advantage of some of the hidden opportunities whether you’re thinking about buying or selling this spring.

What You Need to Know About the Twin Falls County Market:

Number of Residential Sales
Months of Inventory (MOI)
New Listings
Average Sales Price
Days on Market

Number of Residential Sales

The total number of residential sales came in at 67, which was 22.09% lower than this time last year in February and 4.02% less than January 2024. However, we did see the total number of available homes for sale drop about 6% from January to February. We are still in a lower inventory situation, and homes beneath $350,000 are often seeing multiple offers, especially in desirable locations or homes with larger lots.

Steal This!

Months of Inventory

We are still in a seller’s market and in Twin Falls County had 3.07 Months of Inventory (MOI) in February 2024. This number has been going down monthly since November of 2023 where we saw the MOI reach 3.81, so we’ve definitely seen a decrease.

The current MOI level gives us insight into how competitive the market is presently, but its direction also gives us clues into where the market may be heading. With inventory becoming less available monthly but sales remaining steady month-over-month.

Depending on the price point and product, the competition level changes. It’s more of a seller’s market for properties below $350,000, whereas the properties in the higher price points tend to take a bit longer to sell.

I think many people have accepted higher interest rates as the new norm. Rather than waiting to buy, many are adjusting what they’re shopping for, making the lower price points more active.

New Listings

A bright side for those out shopping in those lower price points, we did see more inventory hit the market in February with 130 new properties listed. This was a 25% increase from January where we saw 104 new properties hit the market.

This is typical as the majority of homes in Twin Falls County are sold during the spring and summer months.

Average Sales Price

The median sales price for a home in Twin Falls County was $370,000 in February, whereas in January 2024, it was $360,000 for all single-family homes. This number has grown, and we can expect to see that continue as the spring market heats up.

The median cost of a single-family home in Twin Falls County has increased by 12.98% from $335,500 in February 2023. Although prices may fluctuate monthly, the overall trend in the long term continues to be upward.

Breaking it down by category, pre-existing single family homes sold on average for $350,000, new construction for $440,000, and single family homes with acreage sold on average for $533,000.

Days On Market

The average days on market has increased to 91 days in Twin Falls county, up 10 days from January. However, if you look at homes under $350,000, the average days on market is just 53 days. So, going back to what I mentioned earlier, the price point in which you’re shopping will make a difference in competion. If you’re shopping price points above $450,000, you will likely find less competion and more seller incentives.

Conclusion

So, what does this all mean for you? You can expect more homes to hit the market and sales to happen as we move forward in the spring market. We are seeing lots of multiple offer scenarios.In our market, most buying and selling occurs from April to September due to favorable weather and school breaks.

The Federal Reserve announced on Wednesday that it still expects to cut interest rates three times in 2024. If this happens, it could lead to an increase in sales later in the year.

Sellers, if you’ve been thinking about selling, we are in a seller’s market with lower inventory, especially for starter homes. Depending on what you’re planning to do, this could be a great time to move- especially if you’re planning to upsize.

If you’re planning to purchase a house this year, it is crucial to have an agent who is well-informed and supportive. It’s essential that they have a thorough understanding of the local areas and current market trends so that they can provide you with the right guidance and help you achieve your goals successfully.

Every situation is unique when you are buying or selling real estate. If you’d like to discuss your situation, I’d be happy to help. Feel free to give me a call or schedule an appointment today.

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Things to Know Before Moving to Twin Falls, Idaho

Community, Relocating, Twin Falls / March 11, 2024

If you’ve been considering moving to Twin Falls, Idaho, there are some things you’ll want to know before relocating or purchasing a home here. Twin Falls is a great area and family-focused community, but read on to learn my top five things you should know before relocating or buying a home here.

5 Things You Should Know Before Moving to Twin Falls, ID:

The central location of Twin Falls makes it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts to live and play.
Despite the rapidly increasing housing prices, the cost of housing in Twin Falls remains lower than the national average.
Twin Falls has four-season weather, and sometimes you find you experience it all in one day.
Year after year Idaho ranks in the top states for economic growth, making Twin Falls a great place to start or grow a business.
The sense of community holds great significance here, and there is a strong inclination towards supporting local businesses and people.

The central location of Twin Falls makes it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts to live and play.

If you love the outdoors, Twin Falls is the perfect place for you. Even within city limits, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as kayaking, rafting, rock climbing, and more, all just a few minutes from home.

If you find yourself with some free time, there are some incredible locations within a few hours’ drive from here. If you head north from Twin Falls, you’ll reach the Ketchum/Sun Valley area, which is renowned for its world-class nordic and cross-country skiing. In addition, the town boasts fantastic festivals and local restaurants. If you keep heading north, you’ll come across Redfish Lake, Stanley, and other must-see destinations in Idaho.

If you head west from Twin Falls, you will reach Boise, which is approximately 120 miles away. Boise is famous for its excellent hiking, biking, and boating opportunities. However, you can also discover several hidden gems between Twin Falls and Boise, including Thousand Springs State Park, Blue Heart Springs, Miracle Hot Springs, and many more.

If you head east from Twin Falls, you will reach the Mini-Cassia region, which, in my opinion, has the best part of the Snake River for boating in the Magic Valley. In addition, during the winter season, you can access skiing and snowboarding at Pomerelle, and enjoy camping at Lake Cleveland, plus many other activities.

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Despite the rapidly increasing housing prices, the cost of housing in Twin Falls remains lower than the national average.

Although the cost of housing in Twin Falls, as well as the rest of Idaho, has been rising rapidly since 2020, it is still lower than the national average. Therefore, moving to Twin Falls, ID could be a more affordable option.

According to The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the average cost of a home in the U.S. in November of 2023 was $488,900. However, according to IMLS, in Twin Falls, the average cost of a home in November 2023 was $389,534, nearly $100,000 less than the national average.

Twin Falls has four-season weather, and sometimes you find you experience it all in one day.

A huge perk of living in Idaho is the four-season weather. When moving to Twin Falls, ID, you experience the beauty of watching the scenery change with the weather throughout the year.

Twin Falls, on average, receives 210 sunny days a year (national average is 205), an average of 10 inches of rain a year (national average is 38 inches), an average of 18 inches of snow (national average is 28 inches), and on average some form of precipitation 79 days per year.

Our weather in Twin Falls is usually mild, but can be unpredictable, with high winds and seeming-like four seasons in one day.

Idaho consistently ranks as one of the top states for economic growth, making Twin Falls an ideal location to establish or expand a business.

In 2023 Idaho ranked #1 in household income growth and fifth for dollar growth of income in the nation when comparing 2013-2017 to 2018-2022 with a 15% increase in median household income.

“Idaho’s jump in median household income between the two five-year periods can be partially attributed to the state’s rapid population growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. The need for entry-level service workers exceeded the supply of willing employees, boosting wages in sectors like health care and social assistance, accommodations and food service, and education. The pandemic also increased demand for construction workers due to the housing boom.”

Based on the data from the Idaho Department of Labor, Idaho has seen significant growth in its housing units and ranks 4th in the nation, surpassing all neighboring states except Utah. Over the course of two five-year periods, approximately 57,000 new housing units were added, with about 62% of them located in Boise.

The sense of community holds great significance in this place, and there is a strong inclination towards supporting local businesses and people.

The Twin Falls community is supportive and caring, always willing to lend a helping hand.

You will frequently come across charitable events organized to support the locals and various activities in Twin Falls. Participating in these events can be a lot of fun. If you are seeking a place where people still value and care for each other, moving to Twin Falls, Idaho could be the right decision for you.

Moving to Twin Falls, Idaho is becoming increasingly popular. If you’re interested in discussing the area further, feel free to contact me to schedule a call.

The Best Happy Hour in Twin Falls, ID

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How to Sell My Home In Twin Falls, Idaho

Selling, Twin Falls / March 4, 2024

When you’re considering selling your home you may be asking yourself, what do I need to do to help sell my home in Twin Falls, Idaho for top dollar?

I’ve got you covered with my top five tips for getting your home in the best shape to put on the market. Read on to learn about my top tips that will help you get top dollar for your home and sell your home in the least amount of time with the least amount of stress.

What Should I Do To Help Sell My Home In Twin Falls?

Enhance The Curb Appeal: Make A Lasting First Impression
Declutter And Depersonalize: Showcase Your Home’s Potential
Complete Minor Repairs: Fix Any Small Items Needing Repaired
Research And Set A Realistic Listing Price: Competitive And Attractive
Conduct A Pre-Listing Inspection: Ensure A Smooth Transaction

Enhance The Curb Appeal: Make A Lasting First Impression

One of my top tips for getting your home ready to put on the market is to freshen up the outside and enhance your home’s curb appeal. This is a cost effective way to help make a lasting impression on home buyers by doing simple updates and cleaning.

To ensure your home looks its best, it’s important to maintain the lawn and landscaping by trimming, cleaning, and keeping it well-maintained. If it’s currently the right season, I suggest placing some planters with seasonal flowers near the front door. Also, don’t forget to power wash the exterior of your home, driveway, garage, and any other surfaces that could use a good cleaning.

In addition to the landscaping, you can consider enhancements like new house numbers, lighting, and doormat. A well-maintained exterior creates a positive first impression and attracts more potential buyers.

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Declutter And Depersonalize: Showcase Your Home's Potential

When you are preparing to sell your home, it is important to remove all of your personalized items and decorations, even though your home is a place of relaxation and personal expression. By doing so, potential buyers can better visualize their own items and envision themselves living in the space. This also makes it easier for them to fully appreciate the home’s features and imagine their personal touch on the space.

In addition to removing personal items, you will also want to remove excess furniture and organize closets and storage areas to highlight the available storage space.

Complete Minor Repairs: Fix Any Small Items Needing Repaired

If there have been home projects that you’ve been putting off, you’ll want to be sure to complete those before listing your home to help you get top dollar. Fix leaky faucets, replace burnt-out light bulbs, and patch up any small holes or cracks. These small details can significantly impact a buyer’s perception of your home’s overall upkeep.

You may also consider fresh paint, professional carpet cleaning, or professional home cleaning before listing your home. You only get one first impression with buyers, you want to make sure it’s your best.

Research And Set A Realistic Listing Price: Competitive And Attractive

When planning to sell your home, it’s a good idea to schedule a meeting with a local Realtor. This will help you get a more accurate idea of the value of your home. Although many home buyers and sellers rely on Zillow, it’s important to note that Idaho is a non-disclosure state. This means that in many cases, the Zestimate you see on Zillow may not be entirely accurate.

A Realtor will give you a range of values for your home based on recently sold homes in your neighborhood and area. It’s critical to gain insights into market trends and ensure your pricing strategy aligns with current market conditions. A well-calibrated asking price can attract more serious buyers and lead to a faster sale.

Conduct A Pre-Listing Inspection: Ensure A Smooth Transaction

It’s a good idea to get a professional home inspection done before you put your house up for sale. Doing this can help you identify any issues and solve potential problems before they affect the sale. Including the home inspection report for potential buyers can also boost their confidence in the property, making them more likely to purchase and leading to a quicker sale.

I hope this helped you answer the question of “What should I do to sell my home in Twin Falls, Idaho?”. If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to schedule a call with me, I’m always happy to help answer questions!

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The Best Happy Hour In Twin Falls

Community, Relocating, Twin Falls / February 26, 2024

If someone had told me ten years ago that Twin Falls would have such an amazing downtown area and Happy Hour scene, I probably wouldn’t have believed them. However, today, Twin Falls is home to a multitude of great local restaurants, breweries, and even Idaho’s first food hall.

Read on to learn about some of the best spots to check out for happy hour in Twin Falls, Idaho.

Slice

If you’re looking for a place to grab some cocktails after work, then Slice is the perfect spot for you. The ambiance of the place is simply beautiful with a dimly lit, open room. The artwork, exposed brick, and hardwood flooring create a comfortable and casual vibe that will make you feel at ease.

Slice is one of the best spots for happy hour in Twin Falls where you can enjoy great deals on drinks. They offer a buy one get one free deal on their wells, drafts, and even house wine. Although they don’t have any food specials, it’s a great place to visit for drinks. However, if you’re looking for something small to eat, they always have the slice of the day available. It’s perfect to hold you over until dinner.

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Scooter's Grillin'-N-Chillin'

Scooter’s is a local favorite for happy hour in Twin Falls. They were one of the first restaurants to come to downtown Twin Falls and remain running for many years to come.

Scooter’s is best known for their burgers, fries, wings, and killer Sunday brunch. However, they also have amazing specials for happy hour in Twin Falls. If you stop here between 3:00-6:00 PM (except Sundays), you will find their beers, single well cocktails, and most wines are 1/2 off.

If you are looking for a quick bite to eat, Scooter’s happy hour menu offers a $5 menu with small items such as chips and salsa, mozzarella sticks, and more. Overall, this place is a great choice for happy hour.

Elevation 486

If you’re searching for a happy hour in Twin Falls that offers arguably the best view in the city, Elevation 486 is the place to be. This location boasts the most breathtaking views of the Snake River and Perrine Bridge. You can choose to sit either indoors or outdoors, providing you with the opportunity to enjoy the views throughout the year.

The food at this place is equally amazing as the stunning views, no matter what menu you choose to dine from. However, if you arrive between 2 PM and 5 PM, you can take advantage of their happy hour menu that offers some delectable choices such as vine-ripened tomato, burrata-style mozzarella, fresh basil, and balsamic reduction, or green bean fries served with delicious sauces.

You’ll find on the menu various drink specials, such as $5 well drinks, $1 off draft wine or beer, and some of the best margaritas in the Magic Valley. If you’re searching for a perfect place for your next happy hour, I highly recommend Elevation.

Anchor Bistro & Sports Bar

If you’re looking for a place to catch up on sports while enjoying happy hour, Anchor Bistro & Bar is the perfect spot for you. With 19 flatscreens that range up to 80 inches scattered all over the restaurant, you can watch sports events such as NFL Direct Ticket, MLB Direct Ticket, NBA, College Football, NASCAR & Golf without missing any of the action. Additionally, with an enticing happy hour in Twin Falls, you can’t go wrong.

If you’re looking for a great deal on drinks and appetizers, come by from 3:00 to 5:00 PM Monday through Saturday. During this time, you can get a 50% discount on draft beers and well-drinks, as well as $2 off any appetizer. If you’re a fan of nachos, you need to try the ones here – especially with the smoked pork. Also, if you’re visiting during the summer, you can sit on the patio or indoors. If you get a chance, visit Anchor during happy hour, you won’t be disappointed.

Redhawk Gastropub

Redhawk Gastropub is a recently opened restaurant in Twin Falls, which started operating in the summer of 2022. It is a unique dining experience, with a 28-tap bar and comfortable seating on the canyon rim. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, and during the winter months, you can enjoy one of their heated pods on the patio.

Redhawk features both an early and late happy hour in Twin Falls. Their first happy hour begins at 2:00 PM and ends at 6:00 PM, the second from 9:00 – 10:00 PM. You’ll find discounts on their appetizers like deep-fried pickles, spinach artichoke dip, and more. You will also find their beer, wine, and cocktails for $2.00 off.

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Things to do in Twin Falls this month:

Grand Opening Roots Nursery

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Mother's Day at Holesinsky Winery

Murder at the Manor - Murder Mystery Dinner

The Idaho Summit 2024

Beginner Pottery Wheel Class

8th Annual Body, Mind, and Spirit Expo

Live Music with Layne Bowen

Vintage Vixen's Market

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Top Documents Needed For a Twin Falls Mortgage:

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Paystubs, W-2s, or other proof of income

Credit Report

Bank Statements

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Top 5 Things You Should Know Before Moving To Kimberly:

The location is fantastic if you want to quickly get to outdoor activities like camping, boating, hiking, etc.

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The average cost of a home here tends to be higher than other parts of Twin Falls County.

There are many new construction developments in Kimberly, so you will have to deal with the mess for a while during construction.

With a population of under 5,000 people, Kimberly is a tight-knit community.

Even though Kimberly is a small town, you can find most anything you need there.

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What You Need to Know About the Twin Falls County Market:

Number of Residential Sales

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Months of Inventory

New Listings

Sales Price

Days On Market

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5 Things You Should Know Before Moving To Buhl:

The city of Buhl offers some of the most affordable housing options in Twin Falls County.

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Some houses in the area have access to geothermal water as their water source, and there are also several hot springs to visit.

If you work in Twin Falls and have to commute from Buhl, it is a bit of a drive at roughly 25 minutes each way.

There are a lot of options for dining and entertainment in Buhl.

Known as the Trout Capital of America, Buhl has several hatcheries producing trout that go all over the world.

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Top 5 Steps To Take Before Buying A House In Twin Falls, ID

Assess Your Finances: Build A Strong Foundation

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Research Neighborhoods: Find The Best Fit

Define Your Priorities: Identify Your Must-Haves And Deal Breakers

Understand The Home Buying Process: Knowledge Is Empowering

Work With A Professional: Don't Go It Alone

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