Palouse Living, May 2018

Palouse LIVING Your resource for buying, selling and enjoying your home on the Palouse.

The basics of

backyard beehives

May M ay 2 2018 018 Moscow-Pullman Moscow-Pullman D Daily aily N News ews & L Lewiston ewiston T Tribune ribune

Home is not just a place, it’s a feeling.

Everyone has goals, but not always a plan to reach them. We can help you find home financing options to meet your needs, whether you’re: • Purchasing your first home • Looking to buy a second home • Interested in buying an investment property And, with our PriorityBuyer® preapproval, you can shop for your home with confidence.

Your home financing matters, contact me today.

Rachel Ellen Laine Home Mortgage Consultant Office: 208-883-5659, Cell: 208-874-2452 rachel.e.laine@wellsfargo.com www.wfhm.com/rachel-laine NMLSR ID 1015986

Information is accurate as of date of printing and is subject to change without notice.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2016 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. AS3812380 Expires 09/2018

| May 2018 | Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune

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Latah County real estate market snapshot Courtesy of Debbie Lawrence, President, Latah County Board of REALTORS®

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nterest rates are creeping up, inventory is still squeezed, and some feared revised tax laws would have a chilling effect on home sales, but Latah County Board of REALTOR® (LCBOR) leaders say the local market remains competitive.

Moscow Statics The average sales price for the 1st quarter of 2018 for single family homes, including condos, in Moscow is $256,271 compared to the 1st quarter of 2017 of $237,956.

With 30 homes sold in 2017 and 52 sold in 2018.

There were 32 pending sales last month. 29 closed sales last month, up from a year-ago of 19 closed sales. Average prices on those sales rising from the year ago figure of $236,863 to last month’s price of $249,963.

Currently there are 27 single family listings only, not including condos, in Moscow for sale. When all classes and types are included there are 117 properties in Moscow listed

Palouse LIVING Your resource for buying, selling and enjoying your home on the Palouse.

Rural Communities throughout Latah County, not including Moscow The average sales price for the 1st quarter of 2018 for single family homes with acreage, in Latah County is $198,882 compared to the 1st quarter of 2017 of $183,297.

With 18 homes sold in 2017 and 19 sold in 2018.

LCBOR shows 11 pending sales last month. 8 closed sales last month, down from a year-ago of 9 closed sales. Average prices on those sales falling from the year ago figure of $234,388 to last month’s price of $215,571.

With 106 properties, includes all classes and types, listed for sale.

Learn about buying a home will show you how!

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The basics of

backyard beehives

IN PRINT: Palouse Living is published monthly, with 7,000 copies distributed in the Moscow-Pullman Daily News, Lewiston Tribune and at participating advertiser locations.

M May ay 2 2018 018 M Moscow-Pullman oscow-Pullman D Daily aily N News ews & L Lewiston ewiston T Tribune ribune

ONLINE: Check out the latest edition online at DNews.com — just click on the Special Sections tab.

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for sale.

6-hour course offered by Moscow Affordable Housing Trust.

In Moscow: September 18 & 19, October 23 & 24 In Lewiston: May 22 & 23 5:30-8:30 PM each night, must attend both nights $15/household Registration Fee To register and for more information, visit www.FinallyHomeIdaho.com

Expand Your Horizons!

KARYL SAWYER

Your real estate expert from Latah County to the Treasure Valley "Let My Experience and Dedication Work For You" (208) 860-1992 karyl@sawyerhl.com www.sawyerhl.com

Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune | May 2018 | 3

Saving bees one hive at a time: basics of backyard beehives MetroCreative

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cientists and environmentalists have been warning the public for years that honeybees are disappearing at alarming rates.

crop production. Without bees, the costs of everything from blueberries to apples to broccoli would rise, as farmers would have to use a different, more expensive pollination method.

Scientists were initially uncertain in regard to what was decimating bee populations. Even though no single cause is to blame, data has pointed to pesticide use and the mysterious colony collapse disorder, which is a name given to the dwindling colonies seen around the world.

Even though backyard beehives or bee farms may not be crucial to consumer agriculture, bringing healthy colonies back to various areas is beneficial to the environment overall.

The art of beekeeping has become an important endeavor, and just about anyone with some time and resources can start their own apiary.

National Geographic News says bees are essential because of their roles as pollinators. Agriculture industries rely on honeybees, especially managed honeybees, to keep commercial crops pollinated and productive.

Estimates indicate that roughly one-third of U.S. crops rely on honeybees - accounting for more than $15 billion in

| May 2018 | Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune

Start by studying bees Interested beekeepers can begin their journey by reading all they can on beekeeping. The American Bee Journal or backyard beekeeping books and articles are great places to start. Local beekeeping associations also are invaluable

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resources for information on local bee species and traits.

Know the laws It’s important to get the go-ahead from local authorities before introducing bees into the community. By checking city or town ordinances, potential beekeepers will know how many hives are allowed and which type of property sizes are amenable and allowable.

Get the right supplies Research can help prospective beekeepers understand the type of equipment they will need.

One can purchase this equipment, but some beekeeping organizations may be willing to lend or rent it to interested parties. Hive boxes, bottom boards, a veil, a jacket, a smoker, and a top feeder are just some of the supplies needed.

70

+

YEARS

Order bees Bees can be acquired from other beekeeping enthusiasts or can be ordered online. The bees will need to consist of the queen, drones and worker bees. According to the resource Bees Brothers, a starter set of bees is called a “nuc.” Bee suppliers start selling in the winter for spring swarms.

Place the hive It’s important to set up hives away from foot traffic. In addition, face hives away from strong winds, with the ideal directions being east and south. Hives need sunshine and some shade on summer afternoons, advises BackYardHive.

With time, homeowners can become successful beekeepers and do their part to replenish much-needed bee colonies.

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Jeanne Jones-Harriman (208) 310-1706

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201 E 3rd St., Moscow, ID (208) 882-5531 www.moscowrealty.com

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Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune | May 2018 |

­­­­­Negotiate your best deal Courtesy of Terry W. Petty, Team Idaho Real Estate

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s you return to your vehicle, you feel the stirring deep within you, “This is the home I have been dreaming about… I want to buy it!”

The very next feeling could be described as a tremor of fear, stemming from the next question, “How much should I pay for it?”

For some, the rush of adrenaline is excitement and joy.

Some people feed off of the thrill of the negotiation. They love auctions, pawn shops, garage sales, and even the proverbial used car salesman is viewed as a challenger to be defeated, with the single goal - “get the best deal.”

I personally am one of these people. It doesn’t matter whether it is a $10 deal or a $100,000 transaction, the price isn’t the concern. I just want to walk away from a deal with the prideful feeling of, “I got the best deal I was going to be able to negotiate.”

The pressure of an impending negotiation sends others into the panic of fear - fight, flight, or freeze. The wave of questions seems to crash on the rocks, only to have the next wave come bigger and even more daunting.

Negotiation can be a dreadful and nauseous task.

Let’s take some of the sting out of the negotiation process by using these reachable strategies.

First, be knowledgeable.

Gain as much information as you can to build confidence.

This is where the real estate agent can be incredibly helpful.

The agent can offer insights about the local and current market conditions. The agent’s job is to guide the client through the process by, knowing the best professionals, identifying the smoothest pathway, avoiding common mistakes, and how to advocate for the client’s best interest.

Learn about the condition of the property. Consider the value of the amenities added and note the potential deficiencies, which will need repaired or removed. Are there other potential buyer’s which make this a competitive offer situation or is the property a good candidate for a below market proposal. Information is easily translated into realistic value. | May 2018 | Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune

Second, be reasonable.

One of the most common strategies used in the real estate purchase is for the seller to set the price high enough for some “wiggle room”. The expected response is for the buyer to offer low to hopefully negotiate a desired outcome.

The “low-ball offer” is not always the best approach. If the seller quickly accepts your “low-ball offer”, they may be relieved to get rid of the property and you are about to learn why. The “low-ball offer” may also be perceived by the seller that the buyer created a list of problems and deficiencies, used to drive the price downward. Keep in mind, the seller has the highest perception of what the home is worth, overlooking the reality and highlighting the potential.

The seller may become defensive and resistant and stiffen his resolve, rather than giving in and being flexible and cooperative.

The third deliberation is to be creative.

True value can be measured in more ways than dollars alone. People can have sentimental values attached to the property. This is where their children were raised, a planted tree can have deep emotional attachments, symbolic colors or shapes may go unnoticed by a fleeting glance.

There can be potential value of what it can be as seen by the artistic imagination. Special needs may be driving the decision; can the home be made handicap accessible, is there a safe place for the children to play, is the promise of an unmatched view with wildlife beneficial or detrimental?

Look for alternatives to cash and price by identifying time, influence, and meeting other’s needs to accomplish your own wins.

A healthy negotiation can be a bridge-builder to win-win outcomes. Move away from competitive stances and seek cooperation to negotiate your best deal.

About the author: Terry W. Petty has a Master of Arts: Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, and Peacebuilding. He is a Certified Professional Mediator and he is a licensed real estate agent with Team Idaho Real Estate, Moscow, ID.

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Banish pet odors from a home MetroCreative

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ver time, pet owners grow accustomed to their pets’ antics, messes and even their odors. But when company is on the way or people are thinking about selling their homes, pet odors must be addressed. Even though it will take effort, homeowners can freshen their homes and eliminate unpleasant pet-related smells.

even adult dogs may have their share of accidents. Cats may avoid litter boxes if they are not cleaned frequently and then soil around the house. Be sure to clean up pet waste messes promptly. Baking soda and vinegar solutions are all-natural ways to clean up and can help remove urine odors more readily. Also, look for safe deodorizing cleaning products that can be used on carpeting, flooring and upholstery.

¡ Find ways to ventilate. Odors can build up inside closed environments and prove overpowering. Opening windows when applicable, using exhaust fans and encouraging cross-breezes can air certain odors from the home.

¡ Purchase an air purifier. Air purifiers can help remove odors and allergens from the air. They’re relatively inexpensive and can be placed in rooms that pets frequent.

¡ Clean frequently. Cats and dogs can leave behind fur, dander, food messes, and more. Eliminating the debris that pets create can reduce odors. Sweeping, vacuuming and mopping floors can help as well. Don’t forget to vacuum draperies and furniture, and consider purchasing cleaning appliances specifically designed for homes with pets.

¡ Wash pet blankets and beds. Launder pet beds, cloth toys, blankets, and any other items that pets lounge on.

Sweat, saliva and dander can cause these fabrics to become stinky, and, in turn, make the house smell worse. ¡ Keep pets clean. Most pets are very good at selfgrooming, but can benefit from a spa treatment.

¡ Keep on top of accidents and litter boxes. Puppies and

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Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune | May 2018 |

How to create an eye-catching gallery wall MetroCreative

Gallery walls, also called moment walls, are one of today’s hottest home decor trends. Gallery walls enable homeowners to create visually appealing groupings of photos, frames, wall art, and much more to dress up any room in the house.

Gallery walls can make a statement in the living room, add finesse to an entryway or showcase special items along a staircase. One need only do a quick internet search or browse through lifestyle magazines to see examples of gallery walls for inspiration.

Anyone with a little determination can design a gallery wall. · Find your muse. The first step to creating a gallery wall is

| May 2018 | Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune

to choose a theme. If floral prints are your thing or you love abstract art, build your gallery around these elements. You can even use color or frame style as the coordinating factor. · Take your time. Some people rush into creating gallery walls, and that can be a mistake. Spend time picking out pieces and trying different combinations before you take out the hammer and hardware. The mix should be captivating and look like it was a curated collection. Some pieces can be high-end, while others may be picked up at flea markets or even be your own artwork or photography. · Experiment with dimensions and levels. Gallery walls need not be restricted to flat photos on a wall. Texture and depth can be used in wall designs. Intersperse shelving,

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sconces, wooden letters, clocks, and more to make the gallery even more eclectic. Feel free to build the gallery around items that are in the house, such as windows or televisions. This can help electronics blend into the design. · Establish your focal point. Pottery Barn suggests making the center of the display at eye level, roughly 66 inches off the ground. Then build the gallery out from around that focal point. There are many patterns that can be built into the gallery, from “spiral” to “centered” to “reflection” designs. · Create a template. Lay the gallery design on the floor and cut newspapers or other paper to the size of each piece. Use masking tape to position these guides on the wall, trying a few arrangements until you are happy with the finished product. Then replace the paper with the artwork. · Hang items with precision. Don’t skimp on technique. Use a ruler, level and the right tools.

This ensures pieces are straight and in line with others.

Gone are the days when large pieces of artwork fill empty walls. Gallery designs add statements and can balance rooms in creative ways.

Buying, Selling Or Renting — Let Our Experience Lead You Home!

Kathy Weber (509) 336-1515

Traci Hacker (208) 310-1557

Patty Gemberling (208) 669-2006

Kristie Mattoon (208) 724-2719

Terri Guenthner (208) 301-2374

Cindy Agidius (208) 301-0246

Teri Skiles (208) 669-1364

Susan Miller (208) 892-4004

Megan Rae (208) 874-3128

(208) 883-9700 325 W. 3rd St., Moscow www.HomesInMoscow.com Megan McNannay (208) 310-1662 Rental Connections, Property Manager

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ging men and women often take inventory of their lives in an effort to focus on activities or lifestyle changes that can ensure happy retirements. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows there are some 76 million baby boomers - those people born between 1946 to 1964 - across the country.

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With the youngest of the boomers in their mid-50s and the majority having already reached retirement age, many boomers are trying to decide if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to move out of their family homes and into smaller, more manageable abodes.

The market is moving FAST - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect time to SELL!

Many older adults find they do not need the same amount of space as they did when they had children living at home.

Retirees and those on the cusp of retirement may find that downsizing is a smart financial move that frees up more time for recreation.

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However, it can be challenging to cut down on living space and then deal with figuring out how to make furniture, belongings and stored items fit in more condensed areas.

Moving can be stressful even without having to cut down on prized items. Taking an inventory of belongings can help the process go smoothly.

Before moving, men and women can go room by room, making piles of items that will be kept, donated, sold, or discarded. This can be a tedious task, but it is necessary to avoid clutter in a new home.

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People downsizing can attempt to sell items they do not need via newspaper classified sections or online classified

10 | May 2018 | Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune

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before moving sites. Appliances and furniture in excellent shape may fetch good prices. Any extra cash can be put toward buying new items that are size-appropriate for the smaller home.

Another way to clear out clutter is to sort duplicates from the stock of items. A person may no longer need multiple sets of dishes or silverware. If the move involves switching from a king-sized to a queen-sized bed, donate or trash bed linens that will no longer fit. Pay close attention to kitchen and bathroom items, which tend to accumulate over time but might not be discarded when clearing a home of clutter.

People moving from a detached home to a condominium or a townhouse may learn that homeownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s association fees cover everything from snow removal to lawn maintenance to pool upkeep. If so, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unnecessary to bring lawn and garden supplies.

Homeowners are advised to look at the floor plan of their new dwellings and pay attention to storage space. This can make it easier to plan ahead for what may fit, what will need to be purchased new and which storage solutions may be needed. Having a plan in place can make unpacking and settling in go smoothly. The organizing company Organize Me says that homeowners should consider how cabinets and closets will be used before moving in.

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Downsizing can free up time and money. When done right, downsizing can make retirement easier and create more leisure time for retirees.

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Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune | May 2018 | 11

What would YOUR HOME sell for in today’s market? Now’s a GREAT TIME to find out, call one of our professional REALTORS® TODAY! Mark Blehm (509) 336-9935

Patti Green-Kent (509) 595-3740

Jason Brown (208) 669-1690

Linda Hartford (509) 432-9030

Bill Morscheck (509) 332-9088

Tracy Burch-Greer (208) 874-7823

Amy Honeywell (509) 432-9329

Kathy Motley (509) 432-6561

Stephanie Clark (509) 595-2798

Melanie Lange (509) 553-9451

Mick Nazerali (206) 794-7860

12 | May 2018 | Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune

Debbie Lawrence (208) 301-0108

Connie Newman (509) 595-1443

217 S. Main St. Moscow, ID (208) 882-0800 cbtmoscow.com

Eve Fortenbery (208) 301-8698

Shannon May (208) 892-9256

Darl Roberts (509) 432-1642

405 S. Grand Ave. Pullman, WA (509) 334-0562 cbtpullman.com Palouse Living