REAL Magazine, Dec, 2016-Jan, 2017

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus Keep Your Furry Kids Safe During the Holidays Grammie's Divinity It's Heavenly!

Party Time Celebrating New Year's Eve Monthly Market Report Things to Do With 4 offices to serve you, Coldwell Banker Tomlinson Group is YOUR SOURCE for real estate in the Treasure Valley!

D O W N T O W N B O I S E 3 4 3 .3 3 9 3 | M E R I D I A N 336.3393 | E A G L E 939.3363 | N A M PA 467.5272

With the holidays upon us, it's easy to get too busy to enjoy the little things.

Instead of racing from store to store looking for the deal of the day, how about sitting down with a good book for just a few minutes, or visiting an elderly neighbor and sharing some tea?

We hope however you celebrate this time of year, you will take a moment to reflect on all that is special. And, if you have a story you'd like to see, please email us at REAL@coldwellbankertg.com.

“

Your success and happiness lies in you.

Resolve to keep happy, and your joy and you shall form an invincible host against difficulties."

~ Helen Keller

contents Yes, Virginia Take a moment to read history's most reprinted news editorial.

Holiday Safety Tips Keep your furry family members safe during the holidays.

Grammie's Divinity What's better at the holidays than old-fashioned family traditions?

Partying at Home Helpful tips for hosting a New Year's Eve party.

Market Stats Cold weather, hot market.

Take a look at the latest numbers.

Ada County Homes You'll want to see the fabulous homes on the market in Ada Country.

Canyon County Homes We have some beautiful homes for sale in Canyon County.

Things to Do It might be cold, but it's a great time to get out and DO!

4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18

DECEMBER, 2016/JANUARY, 2017

COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP

PAGE 5

Yes, Virginia

There is a Santa Claus

Eight-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of New York’s Sun, and the quick response was printed as an unsigned editorial Sept. 21, 1897. The work of veteran newsman Francis Pharcellus Church has since become history’s most reprinted newspaper editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens of languages in books, movies, and other editorials, and on posters and stamps.

D

EAR EDITOR: I am 8 years capable of grasping the whole of old. Some of my little truth and knowledge. friends say there is no Santa Claus.

Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as Papa says, ‘If you see it in THE SUN love and generosity and devotion it’s so.’ Please tell me the truth; is exist, and you know that they there a Santa Claus? abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas!

VIRGINIA O’HANLON how dreary would be the world if 115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET there were no Santa Claus.

VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age.

They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little.

In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence cbboise.com

that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You may tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, Not believe in Santa Claus! You could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, might as well not believe in fairies! poetry, love, romance, can push You might get your papa to hire aside that curtain and view and men to watch in all the chimneys picture the supernal beauty and on Christmas Eve to catch Santa glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Claus, but even if they did not see VIRGINIA, in all this world there is Santa Claus coming down, what nothing else real and abiding. would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign No Santa Claus! Thank God! that there is no Santa Claus. The he lives, and he lives forever. most real things in the world are A thousand years from now, those that neither children nor Virginia, nay, ten times ten men can see. Did you ever see thousand years from now, he will fairies dancing on the lawn? Of continue to make glad the heart course not, but that’s no proof of childhood.

DECEMBER, 2016/JANUARY, 2017

Holiday Safety Tips

For Your Pets

Keeping your four-legged kids safe this holiday season is at the top of everyone's list. Take a look at these tips from Northstar Moving Company.

Lindsay Listanski & Laura McHolm Coldwell Banker Blue Matter

T

here is no ignoring it now.

The twinkling trees, the tinsel, and attractive trouble are all around. Regardless of how you celebrate, we can all agree this is one of the greatest times of the year. Sadly, it’s also filled with hidden dangers for your pets.

In fact, it can be one of the most dangerous times of the year for your furry family memberrs.

Dr. Anthony George, doctor of veterinary medicine and certified veterinary acupuncturist, says to keep these five jolly activities away from your pooches or felines, and they will be as merry as you are all holiday season: Holiday Foods Many people like to include their furry friend in the festivities by giving them a ‘sample platter’ of the holiday’s bounty. This act, unfortunately, can introduce a

variety of potential risks to pets.

Eating fatty and rich foods can lead to stomach upset and diarrhea.

In some dogs, the elderly in particular, calorie dense foods can potentially lead to inflammation of the pancreas. Chocolate contains methylxanthine, which can cause a variety of symptoms ranging from stomach upset to tremors, hyperthermia and seizures. The darker the chocolate the more dangerous it can be. Grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic are also extremely toxic to dogs.

And, if you’re taking acetaminophen for pre and post celebratory aches and pains, bear in mind this medication can pose a tremendous risk to your pets.

Commonly found in name brands such as Tylenol and Excedrin, along with many generic cold and allergy remedies, acetaminophen can change the ability of the blood

to carry oxygen. If your pet ingests any of these substances contact your local veterinarian.

Festive Plants Plants and flowers transform any room into a holiday showcase, but also create danger for curious pets.

The usual suspects, poinsettias and American mistletoe, have been considered potentially toxic to pets in the past. However, today it’s generally considered unlikely that either one would cause significant ill effects unless ingested in great quantity.

Lilies, on the other hand, pose a significant risk to cats. These lovely flowers can dress up any holiday flower arrangement, but all parts of the plant are toxic to cats and can lead to kidney failure. Ingesting even a small amount of the leaves, petals, or even pollen can result in severe illness and possibly death.

COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP

PAGE 7 Warning signs include an increase in salivation, depression, loss of appetite, and vomiting. Stay clear of these beauties if you have a feline friend.

Ribbon If your dog or cat loves to help you wrap the presents or loves to unwrap their own present, make sure they don’t run off with the ribbon.

These colorful strands can wreak havoc if ingested. The intestines can bunch up on the ribbon in an attempt to pass it. If you should happen to see part of the ribbon ‘exiting’ from the hind end, never pull it out, as this can cause it to cut through the intestines. Consult with your veterinarian to aid in its removal, whether it’s through endoscopy, surgically, or manually.

The Many Layers of the Tree The Christmas tree is the centerpiece of many holiday homes. However, if you have a cbboise.com

cat you may want to lay off the tinsel as it poses the same threat as ribbon does. Electrical cords from the Christmas lights, as well as other holiday decorations, can be an enticing chew toy for a pup or cat. This playful act can lead to severe mouth burns. The electrical conduction of their heart can even be altered, resulting in the accumulation of fluid in the lungs and difficulty breathing. Take measures to prevent your pet from coming into contact with these electrical temptations.

Many trees are also fitted with water containers to keep them fresh. This water could contain fertilizer or become stagnant over time. Prevent your pet from drinking from the tree to avoid potential complications.

You may not think the beautiful glass or plastic ornaments would be tempting to a pet that has

plenty of toys, but those shiny balls look like lots of fun to a pup or kitty who loves to play. Ingesting sharp ornament pieces can lead to intestinal bleeding.

The Impulse Buy Grandparents, aunts, and uncles – make sure the entire family actually wants a pet before you present one as a holiday present. Please make sure everyone understands that a pet is a gift for life, not just for the holidays. Everyone must be ready for the full-time job of getting the pet acclimated to i’s new home. If you’re planning to add a fou- legged family member, puppies and kittens aren’t the only way to go. Remember to rescue and adopt any age and/or any breed. Many lovable pets looking for a good home can be found on www.petfinder.com. Make a pet’s life happy this holiday season too by giving it a forever home.

DECEMBER, 2016/JANUARY, 2017

COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP

PAGE 9

Grammie's Divinity

Heavenly Christmas Candy

My Grammie, Helen Cashman Peters, was born in 1898 in Durham, Missouri. As a young woman, she taught school in the wild, wild west of Idaho, returning to the Midwest (South Dakota, to be exact) to marry and start a family. She could do anything, it seemed. She was an expert seamstress and quilter (all by hand) and always made one of our favorite Christmas treats, her creamy, sweet divinity. She knew by looking at the mixture boiling on the stove when it was ready to pour. No thermometer needed. My mom learned that same art and, even in her eighties, makes a mean batch today. As for me? I still love my Christmas divinity. I just happen to be one of the many cooks who are grateful for the assistance of a candy thermometer! ~ Kim Jones, CBTG Staff

Ingredients 22/3 c. sugar 2/3 c. light corn syrup 1/2 c. water* 2 egg whites (not even a dot of yolk!)

1 tsp. vanilla 2/3 c. broken walnuts or pecans (optional)

Directions Heat sugar, corn syrup, & water in a 2-qt. saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved. Continue to cook cbboise.com

without stirring until hard ball stage (small amount of mixture dropped into very cold water forms a hard ball), or 260° with a candy thermometer. Remove from heat.

While sugar mixture is heating, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Continue to beat while pouring hot sugar mixture in a pencil-thin stream into the egg whites.

Add vanilla, & beat until the mixture holds its shape & loses its shine. Fold in nuts, if desired. Spoon onto waxed paper & let cool. Makes about 4 dozen pieces. *If it is a humid day, reduce water by 1 Tbsp.

DECEMBER, 2016/JANUARY, 2017

COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP

PAGE 11

Partying at Home

6 Tips for Hosting New Year's Eve Ringing in the New Year at home can be a great time, and it doesn't have to be stressful. Here are a few pointers to help.

Alexandria Filiaci Coldwell Banker Blue Matter

I

f you’ve decided crowded restaurants or bars aren’t the way you want to spend the last day of 2016, having your family and friends over to your house might be a better option. We’ve put together these party planning tips in order to plan a fun and memorable occasion with minimal stress.

Set a limit for the number of people you invite, and stick to it.

It can be tempting to invite your friends, neighbors, gym buddies, and everyone else you see on a regular basis, but keeping the party on the smaller side will not only make your event more intimate, but it will also be less stressful.

Make a “to-do” list.

To avoid feeling overwhelmed with party-planning tasks, make a list of everything that needs to get done. Prioritize and enlist the cbboise.com

help of a significant other, family member, or close friend so you don’t feel like all responsibilities fall on your shoulders.

around and feeling stressed — which is the last thing you need before welcoming guests into your home.

Ask everyone to bring a food or drink item.

Providing all of food and drinks for your guests can get pricey and time consuming. Ask your guests to come with an appetizer, dessert, or drink. This will minimize your personal party budget and possibly eliminate a few errands, leaving you more time to relax before the big night.

Keep the bar well-stocked.

You want to be able to mingle with your guests throughout the night – not feel like you’re working the whole time. Set up a “bar” area with various drink options, cups or glasses, ice, and napkins and let guests help themselves. Keep an eye out so you know when it’s time to re-stock.

Plan ahead.

Tasks like bringing folding chairs up from the basement, washing out those champagne glasses that have collected dust in the cabinet, or cleaning up your kids’ toys from the foyer may not seem too daunting, but don’t wait until the morning of the party to get it all done. You will find yourself rushing

Have fun.

Remember, the whole reason you’re hosting a party in the first place is to enjoy time with your guests. Don’t get so caught up in the planning process that you forget to enjoy yourself. A party in your home is a great way to make a lasting memory, so relax and soak up every minute.

DECEMBER, 2016/JANUARY, 2017

Monthly Market Stats

What’s Happening in Treasure Valley Real Estate

A

s the snow flies and we find ourselves in the full swing of the holiday season, we celebrate some of the strongest months of real estate sales that we’ve seen in all of the last 10 years.

– an uncharacteristic trend – and Ada County’s unit sales were 36% higher than last November!

Days-on-market ticked upward a bit, and median prices slid slightly. Both of these trends are likely seasonal. The inventory of In fact, remarkably, last month was active listings also dipped in both the strongest November on record counties, and the low number in both Ada of homes available and Canyon The Canyon County continues to present Counties for market actually saw opportunities for closed sellers in the market MORE unit sales in sales units. to list their home with November than in limited competition.

While we October! normally see closings trail As we noted last off seasonably during the 4th month, a common misconception quarter, the Canyon County with many homeowners is that the market actually saw MORE unit holidays are a bad time to have a sales in November than in October home listed for sale. The reality is

that there are many fewer sellers during this time of year while sales remain steady through the first of the year.

If you’ve had ANY thoughts of making a move in early 2017, get a head start now and let’s be in touch so that we can help you plan accordingly to beat the spring rush.

Your referrals and repeat business are so very greatly appreciated, and professional advice is just a text, call, or email away.

Happy Holidays and wishing you and yours a blessed New Year!

COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP

$245,000

HOMES SOLD NOVEMBER 2016*

MEDIAN SALES PRICE

21

Ada County

AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET

1,743 HOMES CURRENTLY ON MARKET*

* Numbers reflect year-over-year comparisons.

378

$158,900

HOMES SOLD NOVEMBER 2016*

MEDIAN SALES PRICE

22 AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET cbboise.com

Canyon County

911 HOMES CURRENTLY ON MARKET*

PAGE 13

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DECEMBER, 2016/JANUARY, 2017

Ada County

Featured Homes

522 W. Franklin St. N Boise As you are welcomed by the cozy front porch, you will enter in to a bit of history. This wonderful 1900's home boasts the quality craftsmanship & design of this historical home. Original features together with newer upgrades make this home unique. Features stainless steel Electrolux appliances, Martha Stewart cabinetry, cherry Pergo flooring, & much more.

4863 N. Larkwood NE Meridian Immaculate home on 2.5 gorgeous acres. If you've been looking for the perfect family home with room to practice organic farming, this is it! Property includes fruit trees, massive garden area, huge greenhouse, chicken coop, & a root cellar. 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, & 2,458 sq.ft. home has been updated. Room for shop.

2576 Ariel Lane SW Meridian Exquisite home with views of the Boise front that can't be beat. Custom design by well-known architect Catherine Scott & builder Gary Beck.

Elegant great room features 30' ceilings, fireplace, & domed formal dining area. Large bar/game room, great for entertaining. Impressive kitchen recently remodeled, features Wolf stovetop, double ovens, Sub Zero refrigerator & more.

3026 E. Shadowwolf Eagle The builder did everything right on this floor plan! 2 suites, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, & beautiful upgrades. Newly refinished white oak floors welcome you as you enter. Kitchen features alderwood cabinetry, tumbled travertine tile back splash, walk-in pantry, breakfast bar, & stainless steel appliances. Expansive windows & natural lighting.

COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP

PAGE 15

Ada County

Featured Homes

768 Tall Pine NW Meridian Darling, private home on a corner lot with no back yard neighbors or HOA dues. Move-in ready with all new carpet & interior paint. Bright & open floor plan with vaulted ceilings. Living room & separate family room, are great for entertaining.

Master features walk-in closet & en-suite with walk-in shower. Spacious back yard with patio & mature landscaping. Quiet, central location.

296 E. Lake Creek St. SW Meridian Beautiful nearly new home with lots of charm.

Front porch & natural wood door invites you home. Gorgeous kitchen with built-in gas range, double ovens, granite counters & subway tile. Spacious master suite features separate shower & soaker tub. This 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home with 2,830 sq.ft. has plenty of room for everyone.

1145 S. River Flow Way Eagle Newly remodeled 6 bedroom, 4 bath, & 3,168 sq.ft. home. Kitchen features large walnut butcher block center island, gas cooktop, double oven, granite counters & stainless steel appliances. Master suite with sitting area, direct access to deck, dual sinks, jetted tub, vanity area & large walk-in closet. Skylights throughout with lots of natural lighting & great views!

2200 Hawks View Lane Eagle Extraordinary home atop of the Eagle foothills on nearly 10 acres. This 6 bedroom, 5.5 bath, & 6,000 sq.ft home offers amazing views of both city & surrounding foothills. Well appointed with an abundance of granite, marble, slate, & wood. The saltwater pool with adjacent outside deck provide a perfect place for entertaining!

Must see.

cbboise.com

DECEMBER, 2016/JANUARY, 2017

Canyon County

Featured Homes

14349 N. San Juan Ave. NW Nampa Wonderful single-level home in Nampa's Mission Pointe subdivision. Spacious & open, split bedroom floor plan. Includes 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living room, & office/den. Vaulted ceilings in the kitchen & living room. Large master bedroom with walk-in closet. Well maintained house & yard. This is a must see!

11236 W. Kipling Way NW Nampa Stunning, hard-to-find property, maintained to perfection! Hardwood & marble floors throughout the house. Two-story bay windows open up the large master suite with walk-in closet, deep soaker tub & dual sinks. Beautifully remodeled kitchen features stainless steel appliances, granite counters, island & gorgeous cabinets. Perfect for entertaining.

1021 S. Spring Valley Dr. S Nampa Brick stamped front porch welcomes you to an open floor plan that features fireplace, quartz counters, beautiful lighting, soft-toclose two-tone cabinets, detailed ceiling finish work, & a sliding barn door. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath, & 1,954 sq.ft. home has amazing style & consistent quality. 3-car garage with RV pad.

1212 Torrey Ln. S Nampa Custom-built home located in Torrey Pines gated community. Sits on half an acre of waterfront property. Home features hardwood floors, granite countertops, premium cabinetry & molding throughout. Gourmet kitchen with built-in fridge, gas stovetop, island, stainless steel appliances & butler's pantry. Master suite on main level with access to patio. Mature landscaping.

COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP

Featured Homes

1535 W. Dakota Loop S Nampa Well-maintained, single-level, 3 bedroom, 2 bath & 1,173 sq.ft. home. Great open floor plan & vaulted ceilings make the home live large. Super clean, with new sinks & fixtures in the bathrooms.

Home is located on a corner lot, close to Nampa Rec. Center & Lake Lowell. Room for RV parking.

Move-in ready; don't miss out!

3601 S. Edgeview Dr. S Nampa Well-designed 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1,600 sq.ft. home with a 3-car tandem garage. Open living area with cozy fireplace. Kitchen features stainless steel appliances, tile backsplash & large pantry. Master suite offers walk-in closet & a walk-in shower. Close to recreation, hospital & shopping. Don't miss this beauty!

315 Berrypark Place NW Caldwell Home sweet home! Very spacious & wellmaintained family home on an oversized lot, with great views. Separate living & family rooms, gas fireplace, office area, & a large bonus area upstairs. Master suite features dual sinks, separate tub & shower, & a large walk-in closet. Fast & easy freeway access.

21194 Ustick Rd. NW Caldwell 5 acres in prime country location. Near Timberstone golf course. Home features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2,314 sq.ft., & detached 2-car garage. Lots of room for guests with a huge family room, formal dining room, & covered patio. Bring all your animals & enjoy the country life!

cbboise.com

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Canyon County

DECEMBER, 2016/JANUARY, 2017

COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP

PAGE 19

Things To Do There's a lot of fun out there!

Holiday Lights Trolley Tours

Through December 28, times vary

Famous Idaho Potato Bowl Thursday, December 22, 5:00 p.m.

Tours leave from Cole/Ustick Info

Winter Garden Aglow

Nightly through January 1st

Gates open at 6:00 p.m.

Idaho Botanical Garden 2355 Old Penitiary Rd., Boise www.idahobotanicalgarden.org

Egyptian Theatre, 700 W. Main, Boise boiseclassicmovies.com

"Christmas Vacation"

Thursday, December 17, 6:00 & 9:15 p.m.

Nampa Chamber Drop & Shop

Saturday, December 17, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Drop kids at Nampa Rec Center

131 Constitution Way, Nampa Details HERE

Ballet Idaho - "The Nutcracker"

Through December 18, times vary

The Morrison Center 2201 W. Cesar Chavez Ln., Boise Tickets & Info

Capital City Public Market Holiday Annex

Through December 24, times vary

1036 Vista Ave., Boise www.capitalcitypublicmarket.com

cbboise.com

Albertsons Stadium University of Idaho vs. Colorado State Tickets & Info

Traditions of Christmas

Thursday, December 22, 7:00 p.m.

Nampa Civic Center 311 3rd St. S., Nampa www.traditionsofchristmasnw.com

New Year's Eve Lock In for Kids

Saturday, December 31, 7:00 p.m.

Nampa Rec Center

131 Constitution Way, Nampa Info HERE

New Year's Idaho Potato Drop

Saturday, December 31

Music, Food Vendors Downtown Boise idahopotatodrop.com

The Great Polar Bear Challenge

To benefit Make-A-Wish

Sunday, January 1, 10:00 a.m.

Spring Shores Marina, Lucky Peak Info

Idaho Laugh Fest

January 12-15, times vary

Various locations downtown Boise Info

D O W N T O W N B O I S E 343.3393 | M E R I D I A N 336.3393 | E A G L E 939.3363 | N A M PA 467 .5 2 7 2