Mark Don McInnes Sandpoint Realty 208-255-6227

Tag: Sandpoint

  • North Idaho and Sandpoint ‘Ice Dams’

    Sandpoint ‘Ice dams’ are not specific to Sandpoint Idaho and surrounding North Idaho areas. Any cold weather states susceptible. The weather this season thus far has proven to be excellent for the forming of ‘ice damns’. While the name may sound cool, the damage that can be done to a home is not.

    Ice Dams are those formations of ice at the edge of roofs.  Yes those wonderful ice cycles we all enjoy looking at are tell tale signs of ice dams and possible damage, many times serious, secretly happening without our knowledge until too late.

    For excellent information on ice damns and possible damage and tips for removal I suggest going to http://www.icedamcompany.com/about-ice-dams/ based out of Minnesota.  The diagram below, from the Ice Damn Company is excellent in showing exactly what is happening behind the ice we see.

    Sandpoint 'Ice Dams' no different

    illustration Courtesy Ice Damn Company – MN.

    So next time you are enjoying one of those Sandpoint ‘Ice Dams’,  realize the damage that may be lurking behind the beauty of a simple ice cycle !

  • North Idaho Winter Snow

    Warmer temperatures have helped clearing of snow from valley floors but only minimally.  And the beautiful scenes are not to be spoiled by only a few days of marginally warmer weather.  The reality to North Idaho winter storms as in any snow state, is that there are two sides to the coin, scales always kept even, or what ever phrase you care to use.  North Idaho Winter Snow brings forth unique serene beauty everywhere, and it also adds work and obstacles for all.

    The above picture showing the harsh cold and at the same time beauty found early morning at Windbag Marina in Sandpoint Idaho.  Docks filled with sailboats, during the summer and fall months, are surrounded by ice and snow as well as deserted. Wind swept Lake Pend Oreille sits empty.  Turning the opposite direction will show Schweitzer Ski Resort to be hidden by low dark ominous clouds.

    In contrast to this beauty North Idaho Winter Snow brings obstacles for all. Difficult driving conditions, additional work, freezing pipes, snow removal of all kinds, roofs for business, or personal being extremely important.  The 2nd picture is at Bonners Mall in Ponderay.  Snow removal for parking being plowed and piled as far out of the way as possible, and yet still obstructing drive ways and parking.

    Yet to a person I am guessing we all agree the beauty far outweighs the inconveniences of the latter.

  • Freedom of Speech and NFL

    I want to pass along a thank you to the NFL players who chose to kneel this year during the National Anthem.  Even knowing my Patriot’s ‘ice man’ and Coach Belichick’s careers were at the closing years, I boycotted all football games.  Freedom of Speech right?  That included watching even games at home, enjoying a draft and a ball game, or eating at a restaurant to watch a game.

    Two very interesting realizations after having done so.  One is that football scores, stats, Superbowl participants, and anything else to do with football did not change.  Collectively with others that choose the same course, as myself, maybe some revenue was lost but nothing that will change the future of the game or how the players are treated by owners and coaches, or the media for that fact.  I feel good with my choice.

    Two, and most importantly to me, is how much time I saved over this past football season.  How much I was able to get accomplished while in the past I would have easily spent 1 maybe 2 games a week in front of a screen watching.  That amounts to a lot of hours and possible dollars saved while watching something that I had absolutely no control over the end outcome.

    Do know I am a big proponent of Freedom of Speech.  I do however very much question the intelligence of disrespecting the very icons at the core of what represents this country’s Freedom of Speech.   What brave women, men and families have sacrificed, in the past and present, to insure our rights as Americans to that privilege.  I do not argue our country to be perfect, as is not any other country, or individual for that matter.  I believe it is one helluva country to live in though.

    You might enjoy this short You-Tube video to gain a better insight as to just what our Anthem and Flag represent.  “Freedom of Speech” along with all our other Freedom’s through out history have come at no small cost.

  • Bonner County Market Report 2017

    North Idaho housing is as varied as the terrain it sits within.  Sandpoint area homes, with 83864 zip code, alone range from in town, river front, lake front, large acreage, ski resort, and even farming.  This Bonner County Market Report 2017 is meant to give a general trend.  Specifics vary greatly within the county.

    Total transactions for 2015 number 754.  2016 number 806, with 2017 numbering 838.  With a 10% increase in transactions overall and a modest increase from 2016 to 2017, of 4%, the market is showing different than what many perceive.

    The Bonner County Single Family Home SOLD price median for 2015 was $230,000.00.  In 2016 the SOLD price median was $249,000.00, with 2017 median at $273,250.00.  An overall increase of approximately 16%.  These figures stand in line with the national chart shown below indicating, surprisingly, Idaho ranked #5 with 9.2% overall housing price increase 2017.  Interesting is the fact that sold price to listing price, for all 3 years, has remained steady at roughly 96%.

    Housing Price growth US 2017Bonner county Market Report 2017

    Both the average and median Days on Market were exactly the same for 2015 and 2016. 142 and 99 respectively.  In 2017 ‘Days on Market’ showed a decrease in both average and median by approximately 10%.

    What is the take away for buyers and sellers?  The market remains strong and continues to show itself as a sellers market.  Low interest rates are a big plus for buyers and sellers alike.  More buying power allows for continued growth in selling prices, with more buyers able to qualify.  Any raise in rates will see an already locally stretched budget pressed to the limit though.

    Bonner County Market Report 2017

    The increased housing pricing continues as a result of confidence in a growing economy.  More buyers.  And while the transactions have increased slightly they remain steady year to year.  What is being thought of as a tremendous jump with number of transactions, is actually the lack of inventory at any one time.  5 people looking at 2 similar homes has a completely different feel than that of 5 people looking at 10 similar homes.

    In my opinion now is an excellent time for both sellers and buyers in the Real Estate market.  Any professional Real Estate agent should be able assist with the nuances of a specific area.

    I believe it is worthy of note also.  4th quarter showed signs that 2018 will hold with the same pattern.  Approximately a 4% increase in both listing and sold prices of 4th quarter 2017 compared to overall 2017.

  • North Idaho December Sunset – Sandpoint

    You always want to travel in North Idaho with a camera at hand.  Yesterday’s North Idaho December sunset proved just that!  Heading from the office to Sandpoint West Athletic Club the skies were showing signs of a colorful sunset.  I knew I had no where ‘scenic’ to drive before the possible colors would come and go.  Moving west along Highway 2 the spectacular colors opened up in front of me while driving.

    While somewhat disappointed I was unable to find the ‘scenic’ location for the sunset photo I did realize how fortunate I am to work and live in an area that I can be witness to such beauty when simply driving from the office to the athletic club to work out.  Truly a gorgeous North Idaho December Sunset while driving in Sandpoint Idaho.

  • Living In North Idaho – Sandpoint Idaho Home Searches

    When searching for a home in North Idaho more than just the home and property plays a big part of the choices a person makes.  The land, views, local events, schools and much more all should come into consideration.  In any community, or area, this is the case and especially when planning on ‘Living In North Idaho’.

    The blog section, of this website, is meant to help you become familiar not only with the North Idaho market place, in the way of Market Reports – New listings and General Real Estate information to the Bonner and Boundary Counties, but  events, restaurants, services, places to visit, are also all be found inside ‘Sandpoint Real Estate for Sale’ Blog section,  ‘Living In North Idaho’.

    Living in North IdahoThis information will continue growing as the new posts grow weekly.  New market conditions and recent sales will keep you updated on the Real Estate Market.  Posts of what is going on, in and around North Idaho, are here help you find your perfect dream home and property in North Idaho.  Explore the different categories of the blog, and if you have a suggestion for a topic please do contact me with the idea.

  • Sandpoint Rotary Chafe 150

    Sandpoint officially welcomed summer with Memorial Day 2017 weekend just behind us.  With the diversity of all North Idaho has to offer in, mountains, lakes, rivers, open terrain, and so much more, does it not stand to reason the activities at or near Sandpoint would be just as varied.  One of many events throughout the coming summer is the infamous bicycle ride, Sandpoint Rotary Chafe 150.  This years date is June 17, 2017.

    sandpoint rotary chafe 150Sandpoint Rotary Chafe 150 is not an event you decide the night before to do.  Even a month before would be trying for most, and almost impossible without biking experience.  A bicycle ride around a section of the Cabinet Mountain range. You guessed it…150 miles starting in Sandpoint and ending same.  Two lesser mileage rides, of 80 and 30, are available to make the experience available to as many as possible, not just the hard core bicyclists who tackle the full and  challenging 150 miles.

    Grand Fondo actually means ‘Great Party’ and the Chafe 150 is meant to be just that.  7 rest stops are found along the routes course.  They supply much-needed liquids, special ice cream treats or tasty goodies, special to a specific stop.  Breakfast is served at ‘Trinity’s at the Beach’ prior to start time of 6:30am.  At rides end enjoy a buffet meal, adult beveridge, and the atmosphere of like-minded people enjoying their successful ride.

    Participants of the 80 mile ride load their bikes into a semi truck and then themselves into a bus heading to Troy Montana where they start their journey.  Amazingly many of the 150 riders will ‘catch’ the 80 mile riders before rides end.

    sandpoint rotary chafe 150Having enjoyed the 80 mile challenge last year I was impressed with the camaraderie of practiced and seasoned riders with those just beginning, or not nearly as advanced.  I completed the 80 mile and was passed by many of the 150 riders.  To a person there were words of encouragement, as they passed, knowing full well they had caught up with one of the 80 milers.  I was very impressed from beginning to end with the experience.

    If you are a cyclist, and wanting a fun challenge, you might want try Sandpoint Rotary Chafe 150 this year.  If you feel you are too late to train now make plans for the ride next year.  Come to Trinity’s and enjoy the riders as they finish their own personal challenge.   The event is a charitable event with funds going to Lake Pend Oreille School District to assist students on the Autism spectrum and to fund college scholarships.  For more information, visit www.CHAFE150.org

  • 83864 Zip Code Square Miles Including Sandpoint City

    It is difficult to grasp how small the town of Sandpoint actually is when comparing to Bonner County, much less the state of Idaho.  Hopefully these maps and basic figures will help put in perspective Sandpoint City and 83864 Zip Code Square Miles compared to the surrounding area of Bonner County, of which Sandpoint is the largest city.


    Sandpoint City Boundaries

    The zip code for Sandpoint City is 83864.  That tends to be very misleading to many people who do not realize the expanse of zip code 83864.  83864 zip code is stated as 500.1 miles, far greater than the ‘in town’ city limits of Sandpoint.  The variety of land found within this zip code is impressive to say the least.  Lakes, Rivers, a Nationally noted Ski Resort, farm land and ranch land.


    Zip Code 83864 Map

    Both Sandpoint and 83864 sit within the boundaries of Bonner County, which is stated to have 1,919 square miles.  Another impressive side note to the obvious variety of land is the amount of water included in the county.  185 square miles or just shy of 10%.


    Bonner County Map

    Nestled between the Schweitzer Ski Resort and the Northern waters of Lake Pend Oreille, is Sandpoint City.  Cited as 4.79 square miles and .81 of that being water.  Again the % of water being very impressive and one of the main reasons people find Sandpoint, Bonner County, and North Idaho in general, so popular.

    So Sandpoint City itself is under 1% of the total Square Miles of the 83864 zip code of which it is part of.  In comparison to Bonner County, which it is the largest city of, it’s square miles are but .25% of the total county’s of 1,919.

    It is not difficult to understand how easily it is to misjudge Sandpoint City itself from the huge amount of land that directly surrounds it.

    Experience the Difference Living In North Idaho will make.  Contact me as your local North Idaho Real Estate Resource.

    **All web locations researced for above information were clear to state figures considered accurate but not always to surveyed terms.  They are to be considered as a starting point for information needed or desired.  I will pass the same information along in that while deemed reliable information above is not guaranteed.

  • 83864 Zip Code Square Miles Including Sandpoint City

    It is difficult to grasp how small the town of Sandpoint actually is when comparing to Bonner County, much less the state of Idaho.  Hopefully these maps and basic figures will help put in perspective Sandpoint City and 83864 Zip Code Square Miles compared to the surrounding area of Bonner County, of which Sandpoint is the largest city.

    Sandpoint City Boundaries

    The zip code for Sandpoint City is 83864.  That tends to be very misleading to many people who do not realize the expanse of zip code 83864.  83864 zip code is stated as 500.1 miles, far greater than the ‘in town’ city limits of Sandpoint.  The variety of land found within this zip code is impressive to say the least.  Lakes, Rivers, a Nationally noted Ski Resort, farm land and ranch land.

    Zip Code 83864 Map

    Both Sandpoint and 83864 sit within the boundaries of Bonner County, which is stated to have 1,919 square miles.  Another impressive side note to the obvious variety of land is the amount of water included in the county.  185 square miles or just shy of 10%.

    Bonner County Map

    Nestled between the Schweitzer Ski Resort and the Northern waters of Lake Pend Oreille, is Sandpoint City.  Cited as 4.79 square miles and .81 of that being water.  Again the % of water being very impressive and one of the main reasons people find Sandpoint, Bonner County, and North Idaho in general, so popular.

    So Sandpoint City itself is under 1% of the total Square Miles of the 83864 zip code of which it is part of.  In comparison to Bonner County, which it is the largest city of, it’s square miles are but .25% of the total county’s of 1,919.

    It is not difficult to understand how easily it is to misjudge Sandpoint City itself from the huge amount of land that directly surrounds it.

    Experience the Difference Living In North Idaho will make.  Contact me as your local North Idaho Real Estate Resource.

    **All web locations researced for above information were clear to state figures considered accurate but not always to surveyed terms.  They are to be considered as a starting point for information needed or desired.  I will pass the same information along in that while deemed reliable information above is not guaranteed.

  • Snow Forecasted Sandpoint Idaho

    As we leave the 2016 Holiday Season behind Frosty is not to be found again till next Holidays.  Both Halley and Frosty have been my helpers this year with the snow removal in Sandpoint Idaho, although more in what turns out to be a supervisory position.  And that is OK because even the moral support makes a difference.

    Sandpoint Idaho SnowSandpoint Idaho SnowTemperatures are supposed to warm a bit with the new snow coming in later this afternoon supposedly accumulating up to 3 to 5 inches.  Personally I prefer the snow and warmer temps to the near zero and constant concern of frozen pipes.  So I will most likely be working on snow removal late today or early tomorrow morning, along with many others in the North Idaho and Sandpoint Idaho areas, and doing so knowing it is preferred over the zero temps.

    Experience the change of pace Living In North Idaho will make. 

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