NOVEMBER/DECEMBER, 2015
Little Free Libraries Connecting Communities Favorite Winter Reads Our Agents Share Theirs Helping Idaho Dogs, Inc. Making a Difference Entertaining Hacks Just in Time for Thanksgiving October Market Report Celebrate the Season 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
contents Little Free Libraries These small book exchanges are bringing neighbors together.
Favorite Winter Reads What's better than curling up with a good book? Our agents and staff share their favorite reads.
Helping Idaho Dogs, Inc. Strengthening the canine-human relationship through education.
Entertaining Hacks Time-saving tips just in time for Thanksgiving.
October Market Stats Keep up with what's happening in the Treasure Valley real estate market.
Ada County Homes Check out some of the beautiful homes on the market in Ada County.
Canyon County Homes Canyon County is a great place to live. Take a look at eight homes for sale.
Celebrate the Season Just a few of the holiday happenings in the valley.
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER, 2015
Little Free Libraries
Connecting Communities
Promoting literacy and the love of reading, these free-standing, doll house-sized structures with the motto, "take a book, return a book," are bringing neighbors together.
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erhaps you've seen one in your neighborhood and wondered just what the story is, or maybe you visit one regularly, perusing the new books or leaving one or two of your favorites to share. Either way, the Little Free Library movement has become a worldwide phenomenon that's bringing neighbors together over the love of books. What began in 2009 as a simple but loving gesture to honor his school teacher mother, Todd Bol
of Hudson, Wisconsin, built a tiny schoolhouse, mounted it on a post in his front yard, and filled it with a few books in hopes others in his community would enjoy some of his favorite reads. The idea took off after Todd shared the idea with his partner, Rick Brooks, who spread the word. Now a registered 501(c) (3) non-profit, Little Free Library, Ltd. has a small staff and an army of volunteers who maintain their website, littlefreelibrary.org, and run outreach programs to bring books to communities in need. In fact, in October of this year, Little Free Library was honored by the U.S. Library of Congress for creating communities of literacy. The website is packed with information on starting a Little Free Library in your neighborhood and includes a store area where you can purchase a pre-made
Flickr: Elvert Barnes
library box if building one isn't in your wheelhouse, or plans so you can construct your own if you are so inclined. Also on the site are outreach ideas, a blog, and other resources to ensure your library's success. For a small fee, you can take advantage of the opportunity to register your library so it can be included on the map to help others find it. Locally, there are over 40 Little Free Libraries between Boise, Meridian, and Nampa. One, located on Breneman Street near 26th in the North End, is even billed as Boise's "Biggest Little Free Library," as it is large enough for you to walk inside. Share the love of reading with your children and friends by visiting a Little Free Library in your community — or by starting one of your own. Check the map and see for yourself how great it is to "take a book; return a book."
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Likened to human bird feeders, Little Free Libraries are popping up across the globe. To date, more than 32,000 of these community book exchanges are registered with the nonprofit, littlefreelibrary.org. In Boise and the surrounding area, there are over 40.
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER, 2015
"The Emerald Mile" by Kevin Fedarko — An epic tale of the Colorado River corridor and the Grand Canyon.
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Favorite Winter Reads
Our Agents Share Theirs
With winter well on its way, what's better than curling up with a cup of hot tea and a great book? And who doesn't love getting advice on what to read next? We asked our agents and staff to share their favorite book titles and authors. Perhaps you'll find your new favorite among them!
• "Boys in the Boat" by Daniel James Brown • "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt • "The Noticer" by Andy Andrews • "The Emerald Mile" by Kevin Fedarko • "The Thirteenth Tale" by Diane Setterfield • "The Forgotten Garden" by Kate Morton • "Merle's Door: Lessons from a FreeThinking Dog" by Ted Kerasote • "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime" by Mark Haddon • "The Art of Racing in the Rain" by Garth Stein • The "Mitford" series and the "Father Tim" books by Jan Karon • "Modoc: The True Story of the Greatest Elephant that Ever Lived" by Ralph Helfer cbboise.com
• • • •
"White Fang" by Jack London "Watchers" by Dean Koontz "Tell No One" by Harlan Coben The "Stephanie Plum" series by Janet Evanovich • "Kane and Abel" by Jeffrey Archer Anything by John Grisham, Jonathan Kellerman, Clive Cussler, or W.E.B. Griffin
• The "Mitch Rapp" series by Vince Flynn • "Standing in the Rainbow" by Fannie Flagg • "Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom • "The Girl Who Wrote in Silk" by Kelli Estes • "The Woman Who Heard Color" by Kelly Jones
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER, 2015
Helping Idaho Dogs, Inc.
Making a Difference
From positive reinforcement training classes to therapy dog support, Helping Idaho Dogs, Inc. is making life better for area dogs and their people.
T
housands of great dogs end up in shelters every year because of behavioral challenges, when their lives — and the lives of their people — could have been drastically different had these dogs been trained properly. Likewise, those dogs in shelters have a much higher chance of finding their forever homes if they are well behaved.
Helping Idaho Dogs, Inc. is an allvolunteer nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the relationships dogs have with their humans through education and training. Team members hold workshops and seminars, attend events such as pet expos, provide free training for rescue and shelter pets, and work to teach children about developing positive and compassionate relationships with canines. Additionally, therapy dog teams, known as Healing Paws, respond to requests from the community to visit people in need of a little furry love. These volunteers bring their dogs to schools, hospice and rehabilitation centers,
hospitals, behavioral health and crisis organizations, and libraries where children read to the dogs. Recently, five teams responded to a request to bring comfort to children at a valley elementary school. Always busy, Healing Paws therapy teams will participate in events across the state where the presence of the dogs can help ease stress. Keeping education front and center, the teams give presentations about therapy dogs, the differences between therapy and service animals, and how to become a member of the team. For more information about this incredible organization, please visit their website at helpingidahodogs.org.
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Teams from Helping Idaho Dogs, Inc. participate in valley events to educate, entertain, and comfort those in need.
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER, 2015
Entertaining Hacks
Just in Time for Thanksgiving Lindsay Listanski Coldwell Banker Blue Matter
B
eing home for the holidays is all about relaxing, making memories, and sharing great meals together. However, being the one to host the holiday can mean lots of prepping, budgetbreaking shopping lists, and what feels like a race against time to get it all done. Here are some entertaining hacks that you will be thankful you read! Make it a Team Event Just because you are gracious enough to host Thanksgiving at your home doesn’t mean you need to take on the entire menu yourself.
Delegate drinks, appetizers, sides, and desserts to family and friends to cut down on work and on the cost of all the food and drinks. Your guests will be happy to help and proud to show off their culinary skills. Serve Dinner Buffet Style A crowded table can leave your guests feeling claustrophobic. Aside from setting up a kid’s table, an easy way to free up space is by serving dinner buffet style. Side note: Vegetarians and those with special dietary needs will thank you for this, as well.
Go Double for Less Trouble If you’re hosting a large party, The Washington Post says go for two smaller birds instead of one. Two small turkeys will take about the same time to roast as one large turkey, and you can have two different flavors. You can even roast two in one pan with this recipe from Rachael Ray. Stop Crying During Onion Prep Chances are, at least one of your recipes will call for chopped, minced, or diced onions. Dry those eyes and try some of these tearfree tricks from Lifehacker.com.
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Hosting the holiday meal can be both a blessing and a curse. You love the energy and the fun. The work and expense, however, can create a lot of stress. Take a look at these great ways to make hosting the day a little easier. Freeze the Onion: Put the onion in the freezer 15 minutes before cutting it. Cut Under a Vent: Use your stove or microwave vent to redirect the odor away from your nose, mouth and eyes. Wear Goggles: Looks ridiculous but works like a charm! Use Your Slow Cooker to Save Time This seems completely counterintuitive – slow cooking to save time? But using your crock pot for Thanksgiving frees up valuable space in your oven and allows you to space out your cooking more efficiently. Here are some amazing crockpot Thanksgiving recipes from Food Network. Make Personal Sized Portions of Stuffing in a Cupcake Pan Pass the stuffing could very well be the most popular phrase at the table on Thanksgiving. With this cbboise.com
Stuffin Muffin trick passing the stuffing is easy and no one needs to fight for the crispy pieces. Check out this recipe from Serious Eats.
boiling hot water, butter, salt and the corn into a clean cooler, close the lid and let it sit for 30 minutes. Voila, cooked corn!
Put Your Dishwasher to Work Is there a more thankless job on Thanksgiving than scrubbing potatoes? Heavenly Homemakers hacks this task by suggesting that you wash your potatoes in the dishwasher (sans soap of course!) Get the instructions here. Side Note: You can also steam your veggies in the dishwasher. Pop Sugar suggests “wrapping them in aluminum foil and throwing them in the dishwasher for a full cycle (including a complete dry cycle).”
Boil Potatoes Whole to Avoid Peeling Nicked fingers and a ton of time is something any Thanksgiving hostess can relate to when it comes to potato prep. If you boil them whole then shock them in iced water the skin will slide right off! See the whole video from Chowhound.
Cook Your Corn in a Cooler Have a massive amount of corn on the cob to cook? Instead of breaking out all of your pots consider cooking them in a cooler. This hack from YouTube user Donald Boling is pure genius. Pour
Up Your Pie Crust Game in an Instant Put down that fork you were able to use on your crust and say hello to your new best baking friend, Libbie Summers. In this video she shares 20 creative and easy “pie crimping” hacks using everything from a corkscrew to a pearl necklace that will make you look like a master chef.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER, 2015
Monthly Market Stats S
What’s Happening in Treasure Valley Real Estate
ales activity remains exceptionally strong for the first part of the 4th quarter. Compared to years’ past, the typical seasonal decline in home sales units has not happened. Home sales are just barely below last month in both counties, and median sales prices and days on market also remain steady. Year to date, sales activity is up 19% over 2014 in Ada County, and up 13% in Canyon. The inventory of available homes continues to decline and we currently find ourselves with approximately the same numbers of homes for sale as were in 2012. The low inventory combined with strong demand continues
to fuel our market with a healthy year as compared to other times outlook as we prepare to head of year. Fewer sellers are on the into 2016. Locally, we expect 2016 market this time of year, yet the buyer demand to be another strong year Locally, we expect 2016 tends to stay with moderate to be another strong year strong. increases in both with moderate increases As always, real sales units and in both sales units and estate is hypermedian prices. Nationally, most median prices. local. Don’t rely prognosticators on inaccurate are pointing to a similar trend. websites and generic information to make important real estate If you’ve been considering a decisions. Call or email today to move, there are a number of great get a customized analysis for your reasons to list your home toward own property and situation. year-end and avoid waiting until spring as so many people tend to do. One of the secrets of the 4th quarter is that a HIGHER percentage of the available home supply will sell during this time of COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP
$229,800
HOMES SOLD OCTOBER 2015*
MEDIAN SALES PRICE
22
Ada County
AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET
2,252 HOMES CURRENTLY ON MARKET*
* Numbers reflect year-over-year comparisons.
339
$149,000
HOMES SOLD OCTOBER 2015*
MEDIAN SALES PRICE
23 AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET cbboise.com
Canyon County
1,035 HOMES CURRENTLY ON MARKET*
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER, 2015
Ada County
Featured Homes
11938 Oneida Dr. SW Boise Exquisite exterior features rustic posts on stacked stone for a Sun Valley flair. The dramatic entry sweeps you in with its soaring ceilings and stunning curved staircase with beautiful wrought iron balusters. Gorgeous Brazillian cherry hardwood floors, 10-foot ceilings and 8-foot doors are featured on the main level. Chef's kitchen with lots of upgrades perfect for entertaining.
3611 E. Shaver St. SW Boise This beautiful home in the centrally-located Carmel Subdivision has only been lived in for 5 months! Features 4 bed, 2.5 bath and 3,407 sq.ft. with upgrades throughout. Home comes with window coverings, full fencing, upgraded landscaping plus no back yard neighbors. The master bath offers dual vanities along with dual walk-in closets, a soaker tub and oversized shower.
2351W. Quintale NW Meridian Spotless, like-new beauty features 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, formal living and dining, open family, office and bonus room. The garden-like yard is beautiful with a covered, oversized patio, garden shed and curbing. Chef's kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, huge island and plenty of storage. 4-car garage is heated and cooled with shop area.
915 W. Barrymore Dr. NW Meridian This stunningly brilliant, single-level home will be sure to impress. Enjoy upgrades and amenities throughtout. The well-appointed kitchen and surrounding areas are an entertainer's dream. Spacious master-suite features lots of natural lighting, high ceilings and master bath with dual vanitites, soaker tub and walk-in shower. Beautifully landscaped on a 1/4 acre lot. COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP
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Ada County
Featured Homes
638 W. Laughton Dr. NW Meridian A gorgeous home in the desirable Paramount neighborhood. Open concept design flows effortlessly from the grand entry to the beautiful great room with ample entertaining space and cozy gas fireplace. Kitchen features large windows for natural light, custom cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. Better than new!
563 W. Kingsley St. NW Meridian Fabulous 1-year-old, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1,958 sq.ft. home. Completely move-in ready and loaded with upgrades! Great room plan, perfect for entertaining. Features crown molding, shadow box ceilings, custom window treatments, granite, tile, hardwood and much more. Don't delay, this is a real gem!
684 N. Senora Way Eagle Spectacular home in elegant location. Master suite showcases a luxurious bath with dual vanities, travertine tile, Roman shower and freestanding soaker tub. Refinished hardwood floors are maple and walnut. Alder cabinets throughout, granite counter tops in kitchen and gas fireplace in family room. Koi pond, cement landscape edging, new roof and backs to common area.
1010 W. Goose Lake Ct. Eagle Serenity and elegance abound in this wonderful home with premier finishes that radiates exceptional craftsmanship. Private courtyard with fireplace to relax. Rich hardwood floors span from the entry into the heart of the home. Stunning gourmet kitchen with luxurious amenities. Spacious master-suite on the main level opens to its own patio.
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER, 2015
Canyon County
Featured Homes
10303 Boulder Peak St. NE Nampa Better than new! Custom decor, family room, bonus, office or formal living. Kids hidden playroom, kitchen with granite, tile, new appliances, pot rack, large breakfast bar. Soothing colors through the house, immaculate, custom curbing, extra-large patio, full window coverings, storage shed, garden area with sprinklers and walkways.
17304 Copper Spur Ave. NE Nampa There is no water bill as this home is on a shared well. Knotty alder throughout, hardwood floors, beautiful tile counters and backsplash in the charming kitchen that has stunning built-in cabinetry with storage galore and a built-in work station off kitchen. Spacious mud room and large pantry. Ralph Lauren suede painted walls.
2715 Polk St. NW Caldwell Secluded Standout! 3.42 acres, 3667 sq.ft., 4 beds, 3 baths, 2 kitchens and guest quarters. Gorgeous gourmet kitchen with slab granite counter tops, Bosch SS appliances, double ovens, built-in gas cooktop, SS fridge and 2 pantries. Honey oak floors. Main-level master suite with walk or roll-in tile shower. Giant walk-in closet, sitting area with door to 2 separate decks.
4516 Equinox Ave. SW Caldwell You won't find better quality construction at an affordable price. Great room and entryway feature 10' step-up ceilings. The kitchen has full tile backsplash, gas range, soft-close cabinets, stainless steel appliances and a large pantry. Beautiful master-suite with 10' coffered ceilings and dual vanities. COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON GROUP
Featured Homes
13635 S. Coquille St. NW Nampa Gorgeous custom-built home with 4 beds, 2.5 baths, 3-car garage. Fantastic lot in quiet, conveniently-located subdivision close to shopping and schools. Wonderful kitchen with soft-close drawers, stainless appliances and large living room with gas fireplace. Huge master bedroom with vaulted ceilings. Beautiful slate tiled entrance with built-in coat bench.
740 W. Heather Woods Dr. S Nampa Lovely custom 2260 sq.ft. home with open plan concept, split bedroom layout, front office and upstairs bonus room with full bath. Impressive 10' ceilings, large windows and corner fireplace. Attractive kitchen with slab granite island, beautiful cabinetry, built in oven/microwave, 5 burner gas top. Master suite with walk-in tiled shower, soaker tub and dual vanities.
1060 N. Buffalo Way Middleton New carpet, security system, fresh paint, new AC in July 2015. If you appreciate a great floor plan, nice quiet neighborhood with good sized yards and private space then this home is right for you. Relax and enjoy the large front porch. Full three car garage, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, hardwood floors, large kitchen and pantry. Complete vinyl fencing in the back.
24387 Tombstone Ridge Ct. Middleton Peaceful and quiet, 1.05 acre homesite with amazing views across the valley to the Boise front. This 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2,362 sq.ft. home has plenty of room for everybody. Granite, tile, hardwood finishes throughout. Main-level master features a spacious ensuite with dual vanities, soaker tub and walk-in shower.
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Canyon County
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER, 2015
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So much fun for everyone! Boise Holiday Parade November 21, 9:45 a.m.
Every Christmas Story Ever Told November 27-December 12, times vary
Downtown Boise www.boiseholidayparade.org
Boise Little Theater, 100 E. Fort St., Boise www.boiselittletheater.org
Canyon County Christmas Show November 20-22, times vary
Buy Idaho Holiday Market December 3, 4:00-9:00 p.m.
Ford Idaho Center, Nampa www.canyoncountychristmas.com
9th and Idaho, Downtown Boise Buy Idaho Market Info
Thunder Mtn. Line Santa Express November 21-December 23, times vary
Christmas in Meridian November 30-December 5, times vary
Departs from Horseshoe Bend www.thundermountainline.com
Downtown Meridian www.meridiancity.org/christmas
Hymns of Thanksgiving November 22, 7:30 p.m.
Boise Philharmonic "Handel's Messiah" December 4-5, 8:00 p.m.
Century Link Arena, Downtown Boise www.hymnsofthanks.com
Boise Festival of Trees November 25-29, times vary
Boise Centre on the Grove 850 W. Front St., Boise www.saintalphonsus.org
Winter Garden aGlow November 26-January 3, times vary
Idaho Botanical Garden www.idahobotanicalgarden.org
Canyon County Festival of Trees November 27-30, times vary
Ford Idaho Center, Nampa www.canyoncountyfestivaloftrees.com
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Saint John's Cathedral 775 N. 8th St., Boise Handel's Messiah Info
Boise Christmas Show December 4-6, times vary
Expo Idaho 5610 N. Glenwood St., Boise www.boisechristmasshow.com
Meridian Symphony Orchestra "Most Wonderful Time of the Year" December 5, 7:30 p.m.
Centennial Performing Arts Center 12400 W. McMillan Rd., Meridian www.meridiansymphony.org
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Celebrate the Season
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