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North Idaho Remodeling Projects with Spring Coming
4 Home Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI

Ask any North Idaho homeowner about what they would like to change about their home, and most will say, “How much time do you have to discuss those items?
Home improvements (cue Tim Allen) or home remodeling projects can stem from a variety of motivations, like preparing your home to put on the market, adding space for a growing family, addressing outdated features or aesthetics, or fixing structural/functional issues with the home.

However, when it comes to Sandpoint Idaho Home Remodeling projects, too many people assume their project will proportionally increase the value of their home. Few actually consider the complete scope of return on investment (ROI), taking into account not only potential impact on resale value but also the total costs of time, labor, and materials. Some renovations may provide more “quality of life” ROI by improving comfort and aesthetics without significantly impacting resale value, while others can deliver notable financial returns.

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your Sandpoint Idaho living space, increase the equity of your Bonners Ferry Idaho home, or trying to make some quick changes to improve your resale price, here are four remodeling projects with the highest ROI and some tips on how to get them done.

Top 4 Home North Idaho Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI

Before diving into specific projects, it’s important to understand how the data supporting these ROI estimates was gathered. This article references findings from the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report conducted by Zonda Media, a reputable research firm in the real estate and construction industries. The report’s ROI figures are based on national averages for both the cost of materials and labor, which means that regional differences (ie: Idaho or more specifically North Idaho) may lead to variations in actual returns.

1. Garage Door Replacement
- Job Cost: $4,513
- Resale Value: $8,751
- ROI: 193.9%
Replacing an old garage door is one of the simplest ways to dramatically boost your home’s curb appeal—and it happens to deliver the highest ROI of any remodeling project. The impact is largely due to the prominent visual space a garage door occupies on a home’s exterior. A sleek, modern garage door can make your entire facade look fresher and more attractive to buyers.

Garage doors with the highest ROI include insulated steel doors with modern paneling, custom carriage-style doors, and those featuring windows or decorative hardware. These options not only enhance the home’s exterior aesthetics but also improve functionality and energy efficiency.

2. Steel Entry Door Replacement
- Job Cost: $2,355
- Resale Value: $4,430
- ROI: 188.1%
Upgrading to a steel entry door is a simple yet impactful change that can drastically improve both the look and energy efficiency of your home. Steel doors cost less than wood ones, giving you a cost effective way to make a big impact on the curb appeal of a home, without sacrificing performance, life span, or durability.

Why It Works:
- Cost-Effective Curb Appeal: Steel doors are less expensive than wood but provide a similar aesthetic boost. This makes them a budget-friendly way to enhance a home’s exterior.
- Energy Efficiency: Many steel doors come with insulating cores, which can help keep your home comfortable year-round and lower energy bills.
- Increased Security: Steel doors are harder to break into, providing an added layer of safety that appeals to security-conscious buyers.
3. Manufactured Stone Veneer
- Job Cost: $11,287
- Resale Value: $17,291
- ROI: 153.2%
Manufactured stone veneer (MSV) is a high-ROI project because it delivers a striking visual upgrade at a relatively moderate cost. MSV is an artificial cladding material designed to mimic the look of natural stone, making it a cost-effective way to add texture and sophistication to your home’s exterior.

Why It Works:
- Strong Visual Impact: Stone veneers add depth and elegance, creating an upscale appearance that can significantly boost curb appeal.
- Durability and Low Maintenance: Unlike natural stone, MSV is lightweight, easier to install, and resistant to wear and tear.
- Perceived Value: Even though it’s a faux material, MSV adds an air of luxury and craftsmanship that can make your home more appealing to buyers.
Pro Tip: Use manufactured stone veneer to accentuate specific areas, such as around the entryway or along the lower portion of the facade, for maximum visual impact without overspending.

4. Minor Kitchen Remodel (Midrange)
- Job Cost: $27,492
- Resale Value: $26,406
- ROI: 96.1%
According to Homelight’s “Top Agent Insights End of Year 2024 Report”, “88% of agents say that upgraded kitchens and appliances are one of the best selling points for homes”–a significant increase from the previous year. https://homelightblog.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/homelight-top-agent-insights-end-of-year-2024-report.pdf

The trick to ROI with a kitchen remodel is the budget, and how you decide to balance what to upgrade, the quality of materials, and how much to work within the existing layout. For example, you can make a big impact with less expense if you keep your current cabinet boxes but upgrade the doors and hardware. However, if you strike that balance, you can recoup much of your investment. If you’re looking to sell, an updated kitchen will appeal to buyers, which can also help your home stand out and sell faster.

Why It Works:
- High Buyer Interest: Kitchens are a focal point for most buyers, so even modest improvements can make a significant impact.
- Affordable Upgrades: By focusing on midrange materials—such as quartz countertops, midrange appliances, and refaced cabinets—you can keep costs manageable while still delivering a fresh look.
- By keeping the existing layout and avoiding costly structural changes, you can modernize your kitchen while keeping costs down.
Key Takeaways for Homeowners

7 out of the 10 best ROI projects all have to do with improvements to the exterior of your home, which makes one thing very clear: Boosting the curb appeal of your Idaho home in a cost-effective manner will give you the best ROI if you’re thinking about selling this year.

If you look at the current housing market, you can start to see why that is. In the post-pandemic frenzy, buyers had to accept whatever they could find. However, housing inventory has increased over the last couple of years, giving buyers more options. Additionally, due to high-interest rates and affordability issues, the current market favors older, move-up home buyers who are sitting on equity, and these buyers can afford to be pickier about the home they buy.

You can see these trends play out in the “Top Agent Insights End of Year 2024 Report” conducted by HomeLight:

Given these trends, it’s no wonder that the remodeling projects with the best ROI are those that make the home stand out from other homes in the area and leave a strong impression with potential buyers.

Conversely, the projects with the lowest ROI involve major remodels or upscale materials. Anytime you alter the footprint of a home—such as by moving walls or adding square footage—you’ll incur higher costs and lower returns. Unless you’re a general contractor or a skilled DIYer, these high-end renovations typically aren’t worth it from a purely financial perspective. The one caveat is if you’re in a market where high-end appliances and materials are the rule not the exception.

How to Get Started on a Remodeling Project

Starting a remodeling project can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

1. Outline Your Project Goals:
Before you dive into the nitty-gritty of remodeling, take a step back and clarify what you hope to achieve.

Are you remodeling to improve aesthetics? To improve functionality or comfort for your family? To prepare your home for the market or boost your resale value? Is it an essential repair? After you decide on why you’re doing it, you can take a step back and decide what is worth the cost to you.

2. Get inspired:
Take time to gather ideas and give shape to your vision. Whether you’re updating a single room or tackling a whole-house remodel, these resources can inspire you:
- Houzz
  – A go-to platform for home remodeling ideas, complete with photos, product links, and even local contractor recommendations.
- Pinterest
  – Create mood boards for different rooms by pinning your favorite designs and layouts. You can also add ‘-pinterest’ to Google searches to find more targeted boards and collections of remodeling ideas on Pinterest.
- This Old House
  – Packed with articles, videos, and guides on home renovation projects, from DIY fixes to large-scale remodels.
- YouTube Channels: Follow popular home renovation YouTubers who share real-life projects, product reviews, and practical tips.
- Visit Local Showrooms: You can visit the showrooms or warehouses from local manufactures for ideas on fixtures, cabinetry, and counter tops.
- Open Houses – Stop by open houses in your area to get a feel for what’s popular and what other homeowners have done.
Local Remodeling / Contractor Websites: Many will post galleries and before/after images of their renovations, and these galleries can be a goldmine for practical remodeling ideas!

3. Prioritize your wants vs. needs:
Once you’ve gathered ideas, it’s time to separate the essentials from the extras.Must-Haves: These are the non-negotiable items—structural fixes, code-compliance upgrades, or critical repairs.

Nice-to-Haves: These are aesthetic choices or features that you’d like to include if your budget allows.A prioritized list will help you make tough decisions if costs start to climb or timelines get tight.

4. Create a scope and timeline:
Clearly defining what’s included (and excluded) in your remodel is critical for staying on schedule and within budget.What’s Included: Are you only updating finishes and fixtures, or are you changing the layout and moving walls?
Project Phases: If you’re remodeling multiple areas, consider breaking the project into phases to manage timelines more effectively.
Whether you’re updating your home to sell or simply want to enjoy a more modern space, focusing on high-ROI projects is a smart strategy. From replacing your garage door to enhancing your home’s exterior with stone veneer, these upgrades can boost both your home’s value and appeal.

Curious about what features are popular in your neighborhood? Thinking of moving and wondering what remodeling projects, if any, you should do before listing? Want recommendations on contractors? I’m happy to help!
Expected Timelines: Be realistic about how long the project will take, especially if you’re working around major life events or seasonal weather.

5. Set a realistic budget:
Start by researching the typical costs for your specific type of remodeling project in your area. Resources like Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, HomeAdvisor, and NAHB provide national and regional averages for popular renovations like kitchens, bathrooms, and additions.

6. Include a Contingency Fund:
Even with thorough planning, unexpected costs seem to always arise. Many experts recommend setting aside 15% – 30% of your total budget for contingencies.

7. Research contractors & Get Multiple Quotes:
If you’re hiring contractors, request at least three detailed quotes to compare prices and scope of work. Make sure to clarify what’s included in each quote to avoid misunderstandings. And use your checklist below for some tips on hiring a contractor!Checklist for Hiring a Contractor
Finding the right contractor is crucial for a successful remodeling project. Here’s a quick checklist to help you hire the right professional:Get recommendations from friends, family, neighbors, and your real estate agent. Word of mouth is one of the most reliable ways to find a trusted contractor. Ask people you trust about their experiences and if they would hire the contractor again. After you have a recommendation, you can also search for reviews online.
Check credentials, licensing, and insurance. Verify that the contractor is licensed to work in your state. Most states have an online database for checking contractor licenses. You can also look for contractors certified by reputable organizations, such as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI).
Review past projects and ask for client references. Ask to see a portfolio of previous projects similar to yours. Pay attention to the quality of work and whether their style aligns with your vision.
Request detailed bids from multiple contractors. Ask for written estimates that break down costs into categories such as labor, materials, permits, and any additional fees. Compare bids carefully to ensure all contractors are quoting on the same scope of work.
Ensure the contract includes a clear scope of work, timeline, and payment terms.
Check references – A reputable contractor should have no issue providing references. Contact past clients and ask about their experience.

Avoid red flagsUnusually Low Bids: If a bid is significantly lower than others, it could indicate corner-cutting or hidden costs.
Pressure to Pay Upfront: A small deposit is normal, but never pay the full amount before work begins.
Lack of Written Contract: Never agree to verbal agreements only.
Poor Communication: If a contractor is difficult to reach or dismissive during the bidding process, this may continue during the project.
February 7, 2025
Sandpoint Mid-Year Market Update for 2024: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
Sandpoint Idaho Mid-Year Market Update for 2024: What North Idaho Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

This post written based on National information and can used as knowledge towards local North Idaho trends. Do contact me if you have questions more specific to our North Idaho areas. Even within Sandpoint areas there are many different niches which show themselves differently. But the overall trends remain very close to national statistics.

Last December, when the Federal Reserve projected a series of benchmark rate cuts in the coming year, some analysts speculated that mortgage rates—which had recently peaked near 8%—would fall closer to 6% by mid-2024.^1,2,3 Unfortunately, persistent inflation has delayed the central bank’s timeline and kept the average 30-year mortgage rate hovering around 7% so far this year.²

While elevated mortgage rates have continued to dampen the pace of home sales and affordability, there have been some positive developments for frustrated homebuyers. Nationwide, the inventory shortage is starting to ease, and an uptick in starter homes coming on the market has helped to slow the median home price growth rate, presenting some relief to cash-strapped buyers.⁴
There are also signs that sellers are adjusting to the higher rate environment, as a growing number list their properties for sale.⁴ Still, economists say a persistent housing deficit—combined with tighter lending standards and historically high levels of home equity—will help keep the market stable.⁵
What does that mean for you? Read on for our take on this year’s most important real estate news and get a sneak peek into what analysts predict is around the corner for 2024.

MORTGAGE RATE CUTS WILL TAKE LONGER THAN EXPECTED
At its most recent meeting on May 1, the Federal Reserve announced that it would keep its overnight rate at a 23-year high in response to the latest, still-elevated inflation numbers.⁶
While mortgage rates aren’t directly tied to the federal funds rate, they do tend to move in tandem. So, while expected, the Fed’s announcement was further proof that a meaningful decline in mortgage rates—and a subsequent real estate market rebound—is farther off than many experts predicted.
“The housing market has always been interest rate sensitive. When rates go up, we tend to see less activity,” explained Realtor.com chief economist Danielle Hale in a recent article. “The housing market is even more rate sensitive now because many people are locked into low mortgage rates and because first-time buyers are really stretched by high prices and borrowing costs.”⁷
Many experts now speculate that the first benchmark rate cut will come no sooner than September, so homebuyers hoping for a cheaper mortgage will have to remain patient.
“We’re not likely to see mortgage rates decline significantly until after the Fed makes its first cut; and the longer it takes for that to happen, the less likely it is that we’ll see rates much below 6.5% by the end of the year,” predicted Rick Sharga, CEO at CJ Patrick Company, in a May interview.⁸

What does it mean for you? Mortgage rates aren’t expected to fall significantly any time soon, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should wait to buy a home. A drop in rates could lead to a spike in home prices if pent-up demand sends a flood of homebuyers back into the market. Reach out to schedule a free consultation so we can help you chart the best course for your home purchase or sale.

BUYERS ARE GAINING OPTIONS AS SELLERS RETURN TO THE MARKET
There is a silver lining for buyers who have struggled to find the right property: More Americans are sticking a for-sale in their yard.⁹ Given the record-low inventory levels of the past few years, this presents an opportunity for buyers to find a place they love—and potentially score a better deal.
In 2023, inventory remained scarce as homeowners who felt beholden to their existing mortgage rates delayed their plans to sell. However, a recent survey by Realtor.com shows that a growing number of those owners are ready to jump in off the sidelines.¹⁰
While the majority of potential sellers still report feeling “locked in” by their current mortgage, the share has declined slightly (79% now versus 82% in 2023). Additionally, nearly one-third of those “locked-in” owners say they need to sell soon for personal reasons, and the vast majority (86%) report that they’ve already been thinking about selling for more than a year.¹⁰
Renewed optimism may also be playing a part. “Both our ‘good time to buy’ and ‘good time to sell’ measures continued their slow upward drift this month,” noted Fannie Mae Chief Economist Doug Duncan in an April statement.¹¹
However, the current stock of available homes still falls short of pre-pandemic levels, according to economists at Realtor.com. “For the first four months of this year, the inventory of homes actively for sale was at its highest level since 2020. However, while inventory this April is much improved compared with the previous three years, it is still down 35.9% compared with typical 2017 to 2019 levels.”⁴

What does it mean for you? If you’ve had trouble finding a home in the past, you may want to take another look. An increase in inventory, coupled with relatively low buyer competition, could make this an ideal time to make a move. Reach out if you’re ready to search for your next home.
If you’re hoping to sell this year, you may also want to act now. If inventory levels grow, it will become more challenging for your home to stand out. We can craft a plan to maximize your profits, starting with a professional assessment of your home’s current market value. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.

HOME PRICES ARE RISING AT A MORE MANAGEABLE PACE
Homebuyers struggling with high borrowing costs have something else to celebrate. The national median home price has remained relatively stable over the past year, due to sellers bringing a greater share of smaller, more affordable homes to the market.⁴
In addition to offering cheaper homes, a recent survey found that home sellers are also adjusting their expectations when it comes to pricing. In many regions, just 12% anticipate a bidding war (down from 23% last year) and only 15% expect to sell above list price (versus 31% in 2023).¹⁰
But buyers shouldn’t expect a fire sale. According to Realtor.com’s April Housing Market Trends Report, “On an adjusted per-square-foot basis, the median list price grew by 3.8%, as homes continue to retain their value despite increased inventory compared with last year.”⁴
Dr. Selma Hepp, chief economist for the data firm CoreLogic, projects that home prices will keep rising at a gradual pace through the rest of 2024. “Spring home price gains are already off to a strong start despite continued mortgage rate volatility. That said, more inventory finally coming to market will likely translate to more options for buyers and fewer bidding wars, which typically keeps outsized price growth in check.”¹²

What does it mean for you? An increase in more affordable housing stock is great news, especially for first-time buyers. And with home values expected to keep rising, an investment in real estate could help you build wealth over time. Reach out to discuss your goals and budget, and we can help you decide if you’re ready to take your first step on the property ladder.

DESIRE TO OWN PERSISTS, BUT AFFORDABILITY REMAINS AN OBSTACLE
Surveys show that the American dream of homeownership is alive and well, despite the financial challenges. In fact, a recent poll by Realtor.com found that 55% of Millennial and 40% of Gen Z respondents believe that now is a good time to buy a home.¹³
According to Fannie Mae Chief Economist Doug Duncan, buyers are starting to adapt to the new economic reality. “With the historically low rates of the pandemic era now firmly behind us, some households appear to be moving past the hurdle of last year’s sharp jump in rates, an adjustment that we think could help further thaw the housing market. We noted in our latest monthly forecast that we expect to see a gradual increase in home listings and sales transactions in the coming year.”
The Realtor.com study also revealed that even a small drop in mortgage rates could give a big boost to homebuyer demand and affordability. In fact, 40% of the buyers polled would find a home purchase attainable if rates fall under 6%, and an additional 32% plan to enter the market if rates dip below 5%.¹³
But waiting for rates to drop isn’t the only approach that Americans are using to afford a home. A survey by U.S. News & World Report found that determined homebuyers are employing a variety of strategies, including shopping multiple lenders (52%), purchasing discount points to lower their rates (36%), and opting for adjustable-rate mortgages (36%). More than three-quarters of today’s buyers also hope to refinance to a lower rate in the future.¹⁴
Despite the obstacles, these respondents remain steadfast in their desire to own a home, listing financial benefits, stability, and more space as their top motivations for wanting to buy.¹⁴

What does it mean for you? If you’re dreaming of a new home, let’s talk. We can help you evaluate your options and connect you with a mortgage professional to discuss strategies you can use to make your monthly payments more affordable. And remember, in many cases, you can refinance if rates drop in the future.
If you have plans to sell, it will be crucial to enlist the help of a skilled agent who knows how to maximize your profit margins and draw in qualified buyers. Reach out for a copy of our multi-step Property Marketing Plan.

WE’RE HERE TO GUIDE YOU
While national housing reports can give you a “big picture” outlook, much of real estate is local. And as local market experts, we know what’s most likely to impact sales and drive home values in your particular neighborhood. With Sandpoint Realty, as a trusted partner in your real estate journey, we can guide you through the market’s twists and turns.
If you’re considering buying or selling a North Idaho home in 2024, contact us now to schedule a free consultation. Let’s work together and craft an action plan to meet your real estate goals.

The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate for advice regarding your individual needs.
Sources:
1. CBS News – https://www.cbsnews.com/news/federal-reserve-rate-decision-pause-december-13/
2. Bankrate – https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/historical-mortgage-rates/
3. Fannie Mae – https://www.fanniemae.com/media/50096/display
4. Realtor.com – https://www.realtor.com/research/april-2024-data/
5. Bankrate – https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/is-the-housing-market-about-to-crash/
6. NPR – https://www.npr.org/2024/05/01/1248454950/federal-reserve-inflation-interest-rates
7. Realtor.com – https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/will-the-fed-cut-interest-rates-2024-housing-market/
8. The Mortgage Reports – https://themortgagereports.com/32667/mortgage-rates-forecast-fha-va-usda-conventional
9. Fast Company – https://www.fastcompany.com/91106568/housing-market-inventory-rising-across-country-maps
10. Realtor.com – https://www.realtor.com/research/2023-q1-sellers-survey-btts/
11. Fannie Mae – https://www.fanniemae.com/research-and-insights/surveys-indices/national-housing-survey
12. CoreLogic – https://www.corelogic.com/press-releases/corelogic-us-annual-home-price-growth-slows-still-up-by-over-5-february/
13. Realtor.com – https://www.realtor.com/research/america-dream-survey-feb-2024/
14. US News & World Report – https://money.usnews.com/loans/mortgages/articles/2024-homebuyer-survey
June 7, 2024
More Than ‘Just’ the Closed Real Estate Transaction

Mark, “We wanted to extend our sincerest gratitude for all the time and effort you invested in helping us navigate the housing market.”

This was the opening line to an email I opened early this morning. These were clients I had worked with two months before they arrived and then for about a week after arriving the North Idaho area.  I strongly believe the clients be made as comfortable with me as possible. I want them to trust me and the information I am passing to them. Our first day was spent more becoming as familiar with North Idaho as possible in a short amount of time.

From there we moved to setting up appointments to view homes the next few days. Their dream was to have a 2nd home in North Idaho to enjoy part time and rent out on a short term basis when not here. We searched homes in town and out of town up until the evening before they flew out the next day.

After they left I made stops to Bonner County planning and short term rental agencies. I understood that much of the information I was gathering for them would be a deterent from buying in the preferred Sandpoint Idaho area. More important than that though was me wanting this couple, new to the area, to have as much information as possible in helping them make a very important decision in their lives.

I scanned and sent all the information, hand outs, applications, and maps I had gathered over the course of the day while they were flying home. I highly recommended they not trust my explanation of the information but to contact the representatives I had sent contact information to. While I was accurate in relaying the information it could easily be interperted differently by different people, as with anything.

I also sent new active listings that had come on the local MLS’s. One that fit their needs, closer to the others, I did a video preview for them. The remainder to the email I was sent is below:

Your expertise and guidance were invaluable, and we truly appreciate the personalized attention you provided throughout the process.

Unfortunately, due to the uncertainty surrounding the current city laws, we’ve decided to hold off on purchasing another house at this time. While this wasn’t an easy decision to make, we feel it’s the most prudent course of action given the circumstances.

Please know that if the situation changes or if we decide to revisit our options in the future, you’ll be the first person we reach out to. Your professionalism and commitment to your clients have left a lasting impression on us, and we wouldn’t hesitate to work with you again.

Thank you once again for everything. We wish you continued success in your endeavors, and we look forward to the possibility of working together again in the future.

While this did not ultimately end in a completed transaction I know I did the very best job I could do in representing their best interests. Making their needs and wants, my priorities. I did right by this couple and adding to my knowledge of that, is their appreciation of it. As they state…“I left a lasting impression” on them.

Should I exit the Real Estate career field tomorrow I leave knowing, in my small corner of the world, I have people who benefitted from my expertise, caring, and professionalism.

May 8, 2024
Special Treat at Charlie Lane Showing

I have long stated not to venture out in North Idaho without a camera. No matter a phone camera or regular. But some of the best shots I have gotten have been spontaneous and would not have been available minutes later.

While meeting another agent at our listing on Charlie Lane I needed turn left from the paved county road to the private road leading to listing less than a mile away. The street sign being rather unique to say the least. Worth stopping to share.

After meeting with the buyers agent and clients, at Charlie Lane I left them to enjoy viewing the log home and property. On leaving I saw both the deer and the turkeys within a quarter mile of the Street Sign. Not a bad Saturday Morning drive.

Photo of the turkeys blurry. They were blending in so well difficult to get focused. None the less worth sharing.

North Idaho is so incredibly beautiful and virtually always offering something visual to remind us how fortunate we are to live here.

If you are interested in seeing short YouTube video of 136 Charlie Lane – Sandpoint – Idaho – Click Here.  Selkirk MLS 20240597

‘Experience the Difference’ in working with a full time Professional Sandpoint Realty REALTOR®.  Your wants and needs will always be my priorities.

April 8, 2024
Kootenai North Idaho Single Level Rancher for Sale

This 4 bedroom 2 bath Sandpoint Idaho area home, in neighboring Kootenai Idaho, has much going for it. Optimum location being an obvious stand out, but what I want to emphasize here is an item that is not easily noticed from the front side. The large size of the completely fenced back yard.

With access from the kitchen to the rear concrete patio and fire pit, this makes for great summer BBQ’s and entertaining. Views of Schweitzer Ski Resort also available from the back yard.

Yet another benefit to the fenced back yard is the gated access to alley. Gives one the ability for secure storage of boat, RV, trailer…

Looking for affordability with many comfortable living conveniences and extra benefits such as this large back yard? Contact me for more information or an appointment to view in person.

MLS 20231202 $420,777 Click for Additional Information!

‘Experience the Difference’ in working with a full time Professional Sandpoint Realty REALTOR®. Your wants and needs will always be my priorities.

Mark Don McInnes

Broker – REALTOR®

208 255-6227

SandpointNorthIdaho.com – North Idaho Home & Land Searches

Sandpoint Realty LLC

1205 Highway 2

Sandpoint, Idaho 83864

May 24, 2023
1818 Campbay Road, Sagle Idaho 83860 – 4 bedroom and Large 26X44 Shop-Garage

A must see is this incredible North Idaho property on Campbay Road Sagle! One of the standout features of this home is its prime location on the Sagle Idaho Peninsula, which offers easy access to Sandpoint, closer than coming from Priest River – Naples – Bonners Ferry – Clark Fork and reduces drive time to Coeur D’Alene Idaho. In addition, this home is conveniently situated on the south side of the Long Bridge, making it an ideal location for those who want to be close to everything without sacrificing peace and privacy.

But the location is just the beginning of what makes this home so special. This property also boasts a very large shop/garage that measures 26 X 44 feet and features three garage doors, one of which offers a 12-foot clearance.

This oversized shop is perfect for anyone who needs ample storage space or wants to work on projects at home, and it provides plenty of room for cars, boats, and recreational vehicles.

Inside the home, you’ll find a spacious and comfortable living space that is perfect for relaxing and entertaining. The home has an open concept design that seamlessly integrates the living room, dining room, and kitchen, creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen is well-appointed with modern appliances and plenty of counter space, making it easy to cook and entertain at the same time.

The bedrooms in this home are cozy and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and ample closet space. The bathrooms have been tastefully updated and feature modern fixtures and finishes, adding to the overall elegance and comfort of the home.

And as a bonus feature let’s not forget to mention private deeded access to Livermore lake from you property!

Or the fact that you are only 4 miles County Maintained paved miles from Deep Water Garfield Bay Boat Launch!

Overall, this property in Campbay Sagle is a wonderful opportunity to own a beautiful and comfortable home in a prime location. Whether you’re looking for a spacious garage for your vehicles and projects or simply want a comfortable place to call home, this property is definitely worth a closer look. So why wait? Schedule a viewing today and discover all that this amazing home has to offer!

More Details and Photos

‘Experience the Difference’ in working with a full time Professional Sandpoint Realty REALTOR®. Your wants and needs will always be my priorities.

Mark Don McInnes

Broker – REALTOR® -208 255-6227

SandpointNorthIdaho.com – North Idaho Home & Land Searches

Sandpoint Realty LLC

1205 Highway 2 – Sandpoint, Idaho 83864

April 19, 2023
Sandpoint Realty ‘Thursday Thought’ – April 6, 2023

Sandpoint Realty ‘Thursday Thought’ warms to the thought of spring rain’s bringing fresh green, and blooms to even North Idaho region.

As the new week approaches, North Idaho is expecting a series of intermittent rain showers. While this may not sound like the most exciting forecast, the mid-50’s temperature range that accompanies the rain is sure to bring about a welcome change. The rain is expected to leave behind a fresh and clean feeling, and bring a burst of color to the landscape.

As the rain comes and goes, the valley floor will be left with a sparkling clean coating, while the ridges of the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains will soon be the only places to see a dusting of white. So, while the weather may not be perfect, there is still something to look forward to in the beauty and freshness that the rain will bring to North Idaho.

If you’re considering buying or selling a Sandpoint North Idaho home, now may be the perfect time to start planning your next move. Do please reach out to me to discuss your options and what steps you may want to consider taking. Whether you’re looking to upgrade, downsize, or just make a change, I’m here to help you navigate the process and achieve your real estate goals.

‘Experience the Difference’ in working with a full time Professional Sandpoint Realty REALTOR®. Your wants and needs will always be my priorities.

Mark Don McInnes

Broker – REALTOR®

208 255-6227

SandpointNorthIdaho.com – North Idaho Home & Land Searches

Sandpoint Realty LLC

1205 Highway 2

Sandpoint, Idaho 83864

April 6, 2023
North Idaho Real Estate Crash? Many Are Still Convinced

Sandpoint Realty Wednesday Word 17. 67% of the general public believe the housing market is going to crash. In that figure I would also include Real Estate Agents. Here are just a few stats that are the other side of the coin or creating the proverbial ‘2nd side’ of the double edge sword.

While I believe we all are cognizant of the extremely volatile North Idaho Housing market-economy at the present time, I also believe the news media and social media are doing us no favors.

Accurate figures can be used to mislead, when just showing one portion of a larger picture. No one knows exactly where 2023 will take us. Watching the video does however, show there is much more to the story mostly being heard in Social Media and News headlines.

In giving a glimpse to the importance of knowing just how volatile this market is presently. Chart used in video shows buyer climate at different interest rates. The pictured chart is the same, but with January 2023 Mortgage rate figures being shown. As of today the rates have again climbed to roughly 7%. Do keep in mind that 7% is just a tad lower than our 50 year average. Again, full picture being important.

This ever changing market makes it extremely important to have a trusted counselor for your Real Estate needs. Please do contact me with any specific question you may have regarding the local North Idaho Real Estate Market.

‘Experience the Difference’ in working with a full time Professional Sandpoint Realty REALTOR®. Your wants and needs will always be my priorities.

Mark Don McInnes

Broker – REALTOR®

208 255-6227

SandpointNorthIdaho.com – North Idaho Home & Land Searches

Sandpoint Realty LLC

1205 Highway 2

Sandpoint, Idaho 83864

February 22, 2023
Special Sandpoint Idaho Home for Sale – 3 bed 2 bath – 2 car attached garage

Sandpoint Realty recent listing (courtesy Rain Silverhawk) is an excellent example of location-location-location.

Just at the upper portion of the aerial you can see the home at the outskirts of Sandpoint Idaho & Ponderay Idaho city limits. Marked are some nearby well known locations. Also within the same radius, and not marked, are several restaurants, hotels, medical, grocery, Post Office, multi screen theater, and of course a fast food haven along Hwy 95.

Also of note should be that Schweitzer Ski Resort Village is but 9 miles from their base Park & Ride, if one chooses to drive rather than take the shuttle. Access to Highway 95 (highway 2 leg to Bonners Ferry) and Highway 200 (to Clark Fork and Hope Idaho) very simple and accessible.

As seen in the short YouTube video above, the home alone, on this very sought after and secluded street, is reason enough to set up a time to view, if not at least ask for additional information. Add the benefits of these city comforts, shown on the aerial, all being less than 2 miles away, and this a must see home in Sandpoint Idaho.

Selkirk MLS Listing 20230154 $599,000

‘Experience the Difference’ in working with a full time Professional Sandpoint Realty REALTOR®. Your wants and needs will always be my priorities.

Mark Don McInnes

Broker – REALTOR®

208 255-6227

SandpointNorthIdaho.com – North Idaho Home & Land Searches

Sandpoint Realty LLC

1205 Highway 2 – Sandpoint, Idaho 83864

February 17, 2023
Home Loan Pre-Approval – A Must for Home Buyers – January 19, 2023

Sandpoint Realty ‘Wednesday Word’ YouTube video quickly touches on the importance of Pre-Approval, from lenders, for a buyers home purchase

In the video I also express the importance, as a seller, in making a pre-approval one of their priorities prior to selling their home.

Whether a buyer or seller pre-approval remains at the top of the Real Estate priority list even with us having moved out of the frenzied shark feeding multiple offer market.

~’Business Insider’ explains: “In a preapproval [sic], the lender tells you which types of loans you may be eligible to take out, how much you may be approved to borrow, and what your rate could be.”

~Recent ‘Forbes’ article states: “From the seller’s perspective, a preapproval [sic] letter from a reputable local lender often can make the difference between accepting and rejecting an offer.”

( SIC Letter ) Client Agreement means the agreement between the Company and the Client, which together with the Terms of Business and Disclosure are defined as “Operative Agreements” and govern the terms on which the Company deals with the Client.

‘Experience the Difference’ in working with a full time Professional Sandpoint Realty REALTOR®.  Your wants and needs will always be my priorities.

Mark Don McInnes

Broker – REALTOR®

208 255-6227

SandpointNorthIdaho.com – North Idaho Home & Land Searches

Sandpoint Realty LLC

1205 Highway 2,  Sandpoint, Idaho 83864

January 19, 2023