ISSUE 85 | NOVEMBER 2018
WITH COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON
THE M: HOLDING A MIRROR TO LIFE ASPIRATIONS. Architecture is the three-dimensional image of a society’s values. Whether one looks at the temples of Abu Simbel, the Basilica of St. Peter in Rome or the Empire State Building, one sees the needs and aspirations of the cultures that produced them.
THE CHRONICLE. One need not have the Taj Mahal in one’s backyard to see this principle at work. Consider two examples in downtown Spokane: The Chronicle Building, designed by Kirtland Cutter and G.A. Pehrson and completed in 1928, and the Macy’s Building, a composite of three structures completed between 1914 and 1957. One was the noble emblem of a newspaper industry that provided information to the American public for 250 years, the other, a monument to the period in which everyone dressed up to go downtown to fill their closets, furnish their homes and fulfill practically all social functions that required the expenditure of money.
CULTURAL ASSETS. Almost in sync with each other, the newspaper and retail industries declined or morphed into shapes that would have been incomprehensible in 1960. It was natural, then, that both Spokane landmarks changed from thriving centers of commerce to dusty, shuttered structures housing only memories. At the same time, however, another massive trend was shifting. Rather than fleeing the downtown core for life in the suburbs, people became aware of the benefits of living in close proximity to commercial and cultural assets, and to one another.
Submitted by Larry Lapidus
Thus, the Chronicle Building and the Macy’s Building, both owned by the Cowles Family’s Centennial Properties, have become The Chronicle Apartments and The M Apartments.
URBAN LIVING. A guided tour of “The M” led by Construction Superintendent Justin Olney, of Walker Construction, which is responsible for every stage of the massive redevelopment of The M Apartments, provided a view of the most advanced thinking on urban living. Bedrooms provide just that: room for a bed, not a temple of luxury in which one can not only sleep, but work, eat and bathe without having to confront another human being. The bulk of square footage is devoted to living spaces. Kitchens are open to dining areas, which in turn spill into living rooms and decks, all of which are surrounded by views of the city. It is as though one is being urged to get off one’s duff and join the human race. Beyond that, thousands of square feet that could be returning a profit as apartments are devoted instead to centers of communal activity: meeting rooms, gyms, spas, and, finally, a huge, dramatic top-floor deck, replete with discrete sitting areas, barbecues and fire pits. DESIGN. Within the apartments, design reflects today’s preference for clean lines and bright, open spaces. One will search in vain for the carved cornices and leering gargoyles of The Davenport Hotel. All is granite slab, fine-grain hardwood and pale grey surfaces. If you fancy bright colors, bring your own flowers.
ASK THE EXPERT….. HARNESSING THE POWER OF COLOR THE CHALLENGE. The purchase of a new home can be a truly exciting milestone for people. Whether it’s a traditional brick house or an ultra-modern condo, the feeling of putting down roots and being responsible for their corner of the world can be rewarding. One of the first things a new homeowner thinks about is putting their own stamp on things. COLOR. To paint or not to paint is one of the most challenging questions for a DIY decorator. Picking paint colors that harmonize with one another and with one’s furniture is one of the most important elements in interior design. The power of color cannot be overestimated. DISASTER. Many people will turn to family or friends for advice and almost anyone can relate to a paint color disaster. We have all experienced walking into a room that was painted a color so bright it made us uneasy or so dark it felt like a cave. Finding the perfect color can be achieved by some simple steps.
INSPIRATION. First, find something that inspires you, such as a photo of a room you find inviting, a fabric swatch or decorative object that makes you happy. Next, think about the furniture or artwork that you will be using in your new home. This really matters in your decisionmaking. Color can unite rooms and spaces, especially neutral colors, which can work wonders in pulling things together. Try to draw from a neutral palette to achieve harmony. Alternatively, using varying shades of the same color can accomplish the same goal.
SAMPLES. One of the best ideas is to get test samples of particular colors and paint them on large boards to
Submitted by Liz Mancini-Palmer
view alongside the furniture and fabrics they are to compliment. Lighting must be considered here, also. Equally important is sheen choice. Different sheens apply to different areas of the home. Higher-use areas such as kitchens and bathrooms require a slightly higher sheen to boost durability.
PROFESSIONAL. One of the easiest and most foolproof avenues when choosing paint colors is to consult with a professional. An interior designer can give you the insight and experience in helping you pick the perfect palette for your new home. Liz Mancini-Palmer, Interior Designer, Wallflowers Design Center, Inc. 2820 E 30th Ave, Spokane, WA 99223
CHICKEN ENCHILADA SOUP
Submitted by Larry Lapidus
INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • • • •
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT TOYS FOR TOTS. The mission of
1 tbsp vegetable oil 1 lb chicken breast fillets (3 fillets) 16 oz Velveeta Cheese 1 tsp salt 4 c chicken broth 1 c masa harina (Mexican flour) 3 c water 1 c enchilada sauce ½ c diced onion 1 clove garlic, pressed 1 tsp chili powder ½ tsp cumin
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken breasts to pot and brown for 4-5 minutes per side. Set chicken aside. 2. Add onions and garlic to pot and sauté over medium heat for about 2 minutes, or until onions begin to become translucent. Add chicken broth. 3. Combine masa harina with 2 cups of water in a medium bowl and whisk until blended. Add masa mixture to pot with onions, garlic and broth. 4. Add remaining water, enchilada sauce, cheese and spices to pot and bring mixture to a boil. 5. Shred the chicken into small, bite-size pieces and add it to the pot. Reduce heat and simmer soup 30-40 minutes or until thick. 6. Garnish (optional) with shredded cheddar cheese, pico de gallo, and crumbled corn tortilla chips.
the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as gifts to less fortunate children in the Spokane community. Over 97% of donations goes to providing toys, books, and other gifts to local children. Less than 3% is spent on fundraising and overhead. Spokane distribution runs from December 1st to the 15th.
TAKE ACTION. To request a toy, volunteer, host an event, become a drop off location, or donate toys or funds, please visit their website: SPOKANE-WA.TOYSFORTOTS.ORG
NOW TRENDING: BRINGING OUTDOOR FINISHES INDOORS NEW LIFE. T1-11, yes even a common drop ceiling in the basement can be siding likeT1-11 can be given ‘new life’ inside our homes. When used as a wainscoting or to accent an entire wall, this inexpensive material when properly finished can enhance natural materials like brick or stone.
QUICK AND EASY. Shiplap siding,
replaced with corrugated metal.
VARIOUS FORMS. Don’t forget about concrete. As I explained in a previous article, concrete in its various forms and textures can be used for floors and countertops, providing both beauty and durability. CONTACT your Coldwell Banker Tomlinson Agent to get a copy of the concrete article.
often painted white, is showing up frequently nowadays as an interior finish material. Shiplap is easy to NEW LOOK. Have you ever work with and comes in long lengths ENHANCE. If you choose to employ considered bringing the outside of for a quick install. exterior materials inside your home, your home to the inside to create a new look? Brick and stone have been VERY DURABLE. Corrugated metal, be sure to choose a finish that used extensively over the centuries the bare, somewhat rusty material enhances the novel colors, grains and on both the inside and outside of ordinarily used to cover roofs and textures they bring with them. people’s homes. The traditional walls, can be used for backsplashes textured finishes inside your home can or wainscoting on the kitchen island be enhanced with the use of siding, or bar. In a garage or workshop, it metals and natural wood products creates a durable wall covering and reduces the risk of fire. An outmoded commonly found on the exterior. Submitted by Dale Smith
Coldwell Banker Tomlinson 4102 S Regal St, Suite 201 Spokane, WA 99223
@HOME WITH
COLDWELL BANKER TOMLINSON CBTOMLINSON.COM
ISSUE 85 | NOVEMBER 2018 ©2018 Coldwell Banker Tomlinson. All rights reserved. Each office is independently owned and operated. If you currently have an Agent assisting you with the purchase or sale of property, this is not a solicitation for business.
2017 2018 71 57 55 62 55 50 59 53 45 AVERAGE UP 16.1% 53 PRICE45 35 The average53 closed price 39for October 302018 was $264,224 compared to October 2017 when the average price was $227,529. (Does not represent home values.) 52 35 31 53 37 MEDIAN PRICE UP 14.3%35 The median 54 closed price43for October332018 was $240,000 compared to October (Does not represent home values.) 2017 when the 55 median price 44 was $209,950. 35 56 42 36 SALES DOWN 16% 45 homes on less than one acre including condos for Closed sales59 of single family 60total 680 compared 49 October 2018 to 810 from October 2017. 2016
SPOKANE REAL ESTATE MARKET STATISTICS
JAN
FEB
MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
INVENTORY DOWN 22%
Current inventory, as of this report totals 1,333 properties which represents a 2 months supply. (Months supply based on closed sales for August.) Information comes from the SAR’s Monthly Activity Report which looks at single family residential/site built properties on less than one acre and condominiums.
DAYS ON MARKET
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
2016
71
62
59
53
53
52
53
54
55
56
59
60
2017
57
55
53
45
39
35
37
43
44
42
45
49
2018
55
50
45
35
30
31
35
33
35
36
MARKET UPDATE Despite rising interest rates, the Spokane market is still active. In October, sold properties averaged 36 days on market, which has held steady since April. Just as food has a shelf-life that’s good up to the expiration date, homes for sale also have a “marketlife,” if you will. In 2018, expired listings almost had double the average days on market of sold properties each month. In October, expired listings averaged 62 days on market. Sellers: If your listing passes the average days on market, it’s time to extend its market life with a revised plan. Buyers: When you see listings with longer than average marketing times, these properties often sell at a discount. Your Coldwell Banker Tomlinson agent can use this information to help you get your best deal according to the market conditions. Submitted by Cody Kerr
CONTACT ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR FOR DETAILED MARKET INFORMATION. CHRIS OLNEY | 509.981.6388 | OLNEY5560@MSN.COM