Sabrina Telles

Selling Your House Alone in Twin Falls? 5 Reasons to Reconsider

Who doesn’t love a satisfying DIY project? Many sellers can feel like they’ve watched enough HGTV or seen enough YouTube tutorials to be successful. However, if you think selling your house alone in Twin Falls is the best route for you, you may want to reconsider.

Keep reading for my top 5 reasons you should not sell your house alone in Twin Falls, Idaho.

Why Not To Sell Your House Alone In Twin Falls:

Marketing

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In addition to negotiating on your behalf, writing contracts, managing timelines, and efficiently marketing your property, your real estate agent knows what buyers are looking for and what is currently trending.

A good agent can help you prepare, photograph, promote, and describe your home based on current trends. Their marketing strategies can attract more potential buyers, increasing your chances of selling your home at a higher price.

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Only Agents Can List A Home On MLS

selling-your-house-alone-in-twin-falls

When selling your house alone in Twin Falls you likely will have less exposure. Buyers are finding their houses online by themselves now more than ever. They utilize sites like Zillow, Realtor, Redfin, etc. Your real estate agent will input your home on the MLS, which will populate to 1,000s of websites worldwide, leading to more exposure than being listed privately. Buyers and their agents will find your home as long as it’s on the MLS.

Most Buyers Will Only Purchase With An Agent

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When buying a home, buyers typically don’t pay commissions. As a result, they may not have any vested interest in purchasing a home without an agent. However, if they hire an agent, they will have someone dedicated to protecting their best interests and helping them navigate the legal and logistical aspects of the transaction. On the other hand, if you decide not to hire an agent, you will not have anyone to represent you, even though you will still likely be responsible for paying the commission for the buyer’s agent if you want to complete the sale.

Many People Won't Bother Looking

Have you ever felt awkward when driving up to someone’s home to buy something that they advertised on Facebook Marketplace? Did you feel like you had to buy the item, even if it wasn’t quite what you expected? Most buyers don’t feel comfortable having the seller present during a showing. That’s why buyers typically rely on their agent to act as a gatekeeper to their search. They definitely wouldn’t want the seller to give them a home tour.

Nationally around 8% of sellers try to sell their homes themselves, and even fewer succeed in completing the sale. Because this isn’t common, buyers may be intimidated or offput. They might assume that something is wrong with the house, such as foreclosure or liquidation.

Represented Sellers Make More Money

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It’s important to understand that buyers’ perception is their reality. To get a better price for your home, you need to present it in the best possible way to make potential buyers feel comfortable and welcomed in the space.

When you work with a real estate agent, you are likely to reach the highest number of potential buyers, which can lead to competition and greater exposure for your property. This, in turn, can result in a higher sale price. Additionally, by working with an agent, you’ll have someone who is looking out for your best interests and who has experience navigating complex transactions. This can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth sales process.

If you are hesitant about working with an agent, don’t be. Be honest with them. I always take the time to understand how my sellers are feeling, what they are afraid of, and their goals for selling their homes.

If you have any questions about what I covered or if you’re considering a move, feel free to message me at any time. I’m always happy to help!

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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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Twin Falls County Real Estate Market Update: April 2024

Are you a homeowner in Twin Falls County- or interested in becoming one? Here is the information you’ll need about what happened in the real estate market in April 2024. Competition and prices are on the increase, and days on the market are on the decrease. Don’t miss out on learning more about reducing the cost of your mortgage or getting a lower rate, make sure you read until the end!

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

Number of Residential Sales

April continued the trend of the downward number of sales in Twin Falls County this year. For April, there were a total of 92 single-family homes sold in Twin Falls County, down 12.38% from April last year, which had 105 homes sold. Year-to-date (YTD) sales are down 8.29% from 2023.

Interest rates continue to increase as inflation remains elevated. Because of the higher rates and high property values, a lot of the people in today’s market are people who have to move or first-timers. Despite the number of residential sales being down, property values are continuing to rise- I’ll get more into that later.

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Months of Inventory (MOI)

Twin Falls County is currently experiencing a seller’s market, with only 2.9 months’ worth of inventory available. The months of inventory refer to the amount of time it would take for all the homes on the market to be absorbed, assuming no new homes were listed. Although some seller compensations are being offered at certain price points in the area, many homes are still receiving multiple offers, particularly those that fall within the $200,000-$400,000 price range.

New Listings

In April, Twin Falls County had 139 new listings on the market, of which 58 have sold or gone pending. Homes that are well-maintained, located in a good area, and priced appropriately are selling quickly. If you’re planning on selling your home this spring or summer, it’s crucial to take the time to prepare your home properly and partner with someone who has a great marketing plan. In today’s market, this will often result in a quick sale.

If you are planning to purchase a property, it is crucial to plan for a successful experience. Before beginning your home shopping, take the time to compare lenders. With current interest rates, it is essential to review the different programs that lenders are offering and compare their fee structures. This will help you make an informed decision when selecting a lender and ensure that you get the best possible deal. I have seen lenders recently offering credits for their fees, rate relief programs, and more. I’m happy to provide you with these lenders’ information.

Also, if you can get your loan underwritten upfront, this will help your offer stand out when you’re ready. Of the 92 homes sold in April, 22 were cash deals. Having your loan underwritten upfront will help you be as competitive as possible.

Average Sales Price

The average sales price YTD in April was $396, 464. This number is up 7.54% from April 2023 when the average sales price in Twin Falls County was $360,341. Property values continue to increase month after month in the Magic Valley.

Days on Market

The average days on the market (DOM) in April was 56, while year-to-date was 77. However, if you look at the 92 homes sold in April, 49 of which were between $200,000-$400,000. The average days on the market for these homes was 40, while the median was just 11. The market is moving quick- especially for homes under $400,000.

As always, this market update is an general overview of things going on. Everybody has their own situation, and I am happy to take the time to learn more about your real estate goals and show you how I can help make them happen. You can set up a no-pressure phone call here.

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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Things to do in Twin Falls May 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

things-to-do-in-twin-falls

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.

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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

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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

things-to-do-in-twin-falls

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

things-to-do-in-twin-falls

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

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.

Top Documents Needed For a Twin Falls Mortgage:

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.

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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.

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.

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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Things You Need To Know Before Moving To Kimberly, Idaho

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.

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. 

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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.

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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Twin Falls County Real Estate Market Update: February 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

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. 

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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!

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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What You Need To Know Before Moving To Buhl, Idaho

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.

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.

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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.

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

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

buying-a-home-twin-falls

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. 

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Research Neighborhoods: Find The Best Fit

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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

buying-a-home-twin-falls

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

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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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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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Twin Falls Real Estate Market Update: February 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

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.

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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.  

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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Things to Know Before Moving to Twin Falls, Idaho

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.

moving-to-twin-falls

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.

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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.

moving-to-twin-falls

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.

moving-to-twin-falls

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.

moving-to-twin-falls

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.

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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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