Thursday, September 28, 2017

Fall Harvest Festivals

Fall Harvest Festivals in North Idaho

Find local harvest festivals and pumpkin picking in  Coeur d'Alene and the surrounding areas.

Provided by Tosh Lanquist

Pumpkins - Tosh Lanquist
Fall Festival Pumpkin Patch - Photo by Tosh Lanquist


It is nearly time for pumpkins, hot cider, and hay rides!  See below for information on some local farms, farmers markets and festivals that you can attend near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho!

Prairie Home Farms

7790 North Atlas Rd.
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83835
208.762.3289


Open to the public Wednesdays and Saturdays all of the month of October: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  All other days by appointment only. 
Visit Prairie Home Farm's website

Final Farmer's Market of the year in downtown Coeur d'Alene.  Enjoy the last harvest.  There will be music and entertainment as well as hayrides.

5th Street and Sherman
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83835

Saturday, October 28th, 2017.  10:00 AM to 3:00 PM


New Leaf Nursery
Is hosting a Family Fun Fall Festival.  Enjoy lots of activities, including pony rides, a bouncy house, and a pumpkin patch.  Check out the New Leaf Nursery's Facebook page for more information.

12655 N Government Way,
Hayden, Idaho

Friday, October 13th, 1:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Saturday, October 14th  9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Sunday, October, 15th  11:00 AM - 4:00 PM


Carver Farms
9105 N Idaho Rd.
Newman Lake, WA 99025
509.226.3602
Open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday.



Harvest House
9919 Greenbluff Rd.
Colbert, WA 99005
509.238.6970  
Open daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Enjoy pumpkin picking, hay rides, a giant corn maze, and make sure to get some of their World Famous Pumpkin Donuts, they are amazing!
Find this and more at Beck's Harvest House.




Siemers Farm
11125 E. Day-Mt. Spokane Road
Mead, WA 99021
509.238.6242

Open weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.


Enjoy your time at Siemer's Farm by attending the Apple Festival anytime between September 23rd through October. There are loads of activities, including a corn maze with a castle, a farm store and train rides!  



Make a day of it and visit Greenbluff.  There are multiple farms and wineries in the area where you can celebrate fall, pick out a pumpkin, and enjoy the festivities.  The Green Bluff Growers site provides a great resource of information, including a list of growers and upcoming events.




Harvest House - Donuts.  Photo by Tosh Lanquist

Thursday, September 21, 2017

Fall Curb Appeal

Fall Curb Appeal

How to stage the exterior of your home for fall selling season

Provided by Tosh Lanquist


Curb appeal is important when selling a home.  It is the first glimpse a buyer has before deciding if they want to enter your front door.  Don't over look details that can draw in buyers to your home.  A warm and inviting exterior will likely entice more people in to view the home.  The more viewings... the better your chances at selling!

Here are some simple ideas on how you can decorate for fall and add instant curb appeal to your home.
  • Use the fall harvest season to your advantage.  Decorate the porch with whimsical pumpkins or decorative gourds. 
  • Spruce up the exterior paint.  If you're seeing a little wear and tear, take some time to clean the house exterior and freshen up the paint.  Consider a new paint color for the doors or shutters to add an eye-catching pop.  Simply repainting doors and shutters can add a lot of bling! 
  • Pick out some fall flowers for the porch.  Mums are a great choice as they add festive color and are usually at an affordable price.
  • Make sure to trim the bushes and clear away the dry leaves.  And take time to sweep the drive-way.  Having a clean and tidy landscape will get noticed.
  • Add holiday décor to the front door.  Look for simple touches such as a fall wreath or a garland.  Add a new and festive doormat or a simple wooden sign  such as "Welcome" or "Happy Fall" to add a warm and inviting feel.
  • Don't forget the little details.  Make sure outdoor light fixtures are clean and replace any burnt out bulbs. 
Simple touches and a little clean-up can go a long way to help transform the view of your home and create interest for shopping home buyers.

Feel free to post your ideas on how to create an inviting image of your home into the comments.


Thursday, September 14, 2017

Rock Painting Groups and Locations

Rock Painting Groups and Locations

Where to Find Rocks in the Coeur d'Alene Area!

Provided by Tosh Lanquist



Well, if you haven't heard of this yet, you soon will if you live in or are visiting North Idaho.  My family has become fascinated with the new "Rock Hounding" phenomena that is sweeping the area and the Internet.

If you are strolling around town or if you visit one of our many parks and recreation areas, you may be fortunate to come across a painted rock that one of our thousands of local artists have painted.  And if you are really lucky, you might even find a true rock painted gem!

Rock painting and hiding has become a new social and cultural experience.  Typically, once you find a rock you post a picture to Facebook and then have a choice to either keep the rock or you can re-hide it.  In some instances the artist will ask that you re-hide the rock to keep the activity alive.  There are several rock groups in the area, including the Coeur d'Alene Rocks on Facebook, Rathdrum Rocks on Facebook,  and Post Falls Rocks  on Facebook.

Whether you are a rock hunter or a rock painter, it is a fun activity for all who participate.  It is also a great way to get to know the area.

Listed below are some locations in the Coeur d'Alene area where it is common to find hidden rocks.  Please take note though, if hiding rocks confirm in advance that you can leave rocks as there may be restrictions in doing so in certain locations.* 

Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Post Falls, Idaho:
Hayden, Idaho
Rathdrum, Idaho

Keep your eyes open, you never know where you might find a painted rock!



*Please note:  It is important to be mindful of where you get your rocks to paint and where you hide them.  For example, don't hide or take rocks that are on private property.  Additionally, some National and State Parks may not allow rocks to be left by law.  Always check in advance to confirm that it's okay to leave a rock.  The list above is intended only to provide information on where it is common to find hidden rocks in the Coeur d'Alene area, it is not a list on where to hide them.

Check out the Coeur d'Alene Rocks Group Facebook page for additional reminders.


Enjoy this interactive map I create for you.  Please feel free to send me a note if you find additional locations so that the map can be updated.  Happy hunting!



Here are some pictures of Rocks that my family has found

Our Rock Finds


And Below, these are some rocks my family painted.



Additional resources:

Saturday, September 9, 2017

Local Information on Dalton Gardens, Idaho

About Dalton Gardens, Idaho

Local information, events, and attractions in Dalton Gardens, Idaho

Provided by Tosh Lanquist



Dalton Gardens is a quaint town nestled between Coeur d'Alene and Hayden, Idaho.  This town is situated close to shops, entertainment, and restaurants.  Yet, it also boasts a farm-like, outdoor feel.  There are numerous properties where families raise animals.  And it's common to see the local wild life, such as deer, wandering through yards and fields. 

Dalton Gardens offers a nice combination of new and historic homes.  You can often find homes on 1-2 acre lots.  Perfect for those looking for an area where they can have livestock and their own garden.  Additionally, the town offers a horse riding arena.  Perfect for equine lovers.
Area Attractions:  Dalton Gardens Arena, Hayden Lake, Avondale Golf Course, Hayden Lake Country Club, Farragut State Park, Honeysuckle Beach, English Point National Recreational Trails, Triple Play Family Fun Park and Raptor Reef.
Nearby Areas and Towns: Coeur d'Alene, Hayden, Athol

Local Events: Play Day in Athol, Farmer's Market in Hayden
Dalton Gardens, Idaho.  Riding Arena. Photo by Tosh Lanquist


Friday, September 8, 2017

Local Information on Hayden, Idaho


About Hayden, Idaho

Local information, events, and attractions in Hayden, Idaho

Provided by Tosh Lanquist


The Cities of Hayden and Hayden Lake are a few minutes North of Coeur d'Alene.  Enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, or try your hand at wake boarding on the shores of Hayden Lake.  The lake sits East of the city, nestled among the mountains and pine trees.  Hayden Lake is a desirable location for anyone seeking lake-front living and easy access to outdoor recreation.  

There are several parks in the area, including English Point National Recreational Trail which offers miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails.  It’s also a great location to go rock hounding for treasures left by the Coeur d’Alene Rocks group (on Facebook).  There are numerous wooded trails, perfect for an afternoon stroll. 

You can find many kinds of homes in Hayden, including lake-front properties, heavily wooded neighborhoods, and mountain views.  Head West of town and you'll meet the start of the prairie, where there is many local businesses and new developments.

Area Attractions:  Hayden Lake, Avondale Golf Course, Hayden Lake Country Club, Farragut State Park, English Point National Recreational Trail, Honeysuckle Beach, Triple Play Family Fun Park and Raptor Reef.

Nearby Areas and Towns: Coeur d'Alene, Athol, Dalton Gardens

Local Events: Saturday Farmer's Market.

Hayden, Idaho. Stoddard Park.  Photo by Tosh Lanquist

Hayden, Idaho. Avondale Golf Course. Photo by Tosh Lanquist

Thursday, September 7, 2017

Local Information on Post Falls, Idaho



About Post Falls, Idaho

Local information, events, and attractions in Post Falls, Idaho

Provided by Tosh Lanquist


Post Falls, Idaho  is located on the banks of the Spokane River, 7 miles to the west of Coeur d'Alene and 25 miles from Spokane, WA.  Many find Post Falls an ideal location given its proximity to Spokane and Coeur d'Alene. It's an easy commute in either direction should you make Post Falls your home.

Post Falls is close to many recreational and outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, and boating. Many enjoy the local parks, including Falls Park where you hike the rocky hills and overlook the falls.  This is also one of many locations you may be able to find hidden rocks and treasures that local artists hide here as part of the “CDA Rocks” group on Facebook.

From river-front properties, homes in the mountains, planned communities, to homes with acreage, there are numerous properties in Post Falls that could meet your need.

If you are looking for a planned community, Post Falls has several including Montrose, Field Stone, and Prairie Meadows. If you are interested in being close to a golf course, you could find your next home in Prairie Falls or the Highlands.   


Area Attractions: Spokane River, Treaty Rock, Q'Emiln Park, Falls Park, Kiwanis Park, Buck Knives, Cabela's, Highlands Golf Course, Center Target Sports, Stateline Stadium & Speedway

Local Events: Post Falls Days and Farmer's Market.


Post Falls, Idaho: View of Bridge from Falls Park. Photo by Tosh Lanquist
Post Falls, Idaho. Falls Park.  Photo by Tosh Lanquist

Post Falls, Idaho. Falls Park.  Photo by Tosh Lanquist

Post Falls, Idaho. Kiwanis Park. Photo by Tosh Lanquist

Post Falls, Idaho. Spokane River by Kiwanis Park. Photo by Tosh Lanquist
Post Falls, Idaho. Post Falls Farmer's Market. Photo by Tosh Lanquist

Wednesday, September 6, 2017

Local Information on Coeur d'Alene, Idaho


About Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Local Information, attractions, and events in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Provided by Tosh Lanquist


The city of Coeur d'Alene rests next to beautiful Lake Coeur d'Alene, which is nestled in the Rocky Mountains.  Only 35 minutes from Spokane, WA, Coeur d'Alene is in an ideal location for anyone wanting easy access to amenities such as dining, shopping, and entertainment.  At the same time, one can enjoy the countless outdoor recreational activities that the area offers including hiking, fishing, kayaking, boating, and skiing.  Enjoy your time shopping on Sherman Avenue, grab a burger at Hudson's Hamburgers, then stroll the sandy beaches at the Coeur d'Alene City Park.  There is something to do for everyone!


There are numerous neighborhoods that can be part of your search.  Properties can include lake-front living, condos, historic homes, as well as new residential planned communities.  Just outside of town, you can also find homes with acreage.  Whatever it is that you're looking for, you can find it in Coeur d'Alene!


Art on the Green in Coeur d'Alene.  Photo by Tosh Lanquist
Area Attractions:  Lake Coeur d'Alene, Tubbs Hill, Cherry Hill BMX Bike Racing, the Famous Floating Green at Coeur d'Alene Resort, Downtown Coeur d'Alene, Sherman Avenue, Hudson's Hamburgers, Capone's Pub and Grill (Featured on Diner's, Drive-ins, & Dives), Coeur d'Alene City Park, and Coeur d'Alene Casino.
Local Events: Ironman, North Idaho Fair & Rodeo, Car d'Alene, Taste of Coeur d'Alene, Art Walk, Street Fair, and Coeur d'Alene Classic Boat Festival.



Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. View of Coeur d'Alene Resort and Lake Coeur d'Alene.
Photo by Tosh Lanquist.
Lake Coeur d'Alene.  Photo by Tosh Lanquist

Shores of Lake Coeur d'Alene. Photo by Tosh Lanquist

McEuen Park in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.  Photo by Tosh Lanquist

Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Fort Sherman Chapel.  Photo by Tosh Lanquist

Downtown Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.  Photo By Tosh Lanquist

Saturday, September 2, 2017

Rathdrum, Idaho August 2017 Market Report

Results for Residential Homes Sold Year-to-Date (YTD) 2017 in
Rathdrum, Idaho


Homes Sold YTD
: 305

Near Rathdrum. Photo by Tosh Lanquist
(Increase of 12.1% from the same time period 2016)

Average Sale Price YTD$258,104

(Increase of  12.67% from the same time period 2016)

Median Sale Price YTD:  $223,175

(Increase of 11.6% from the same time period 2016)

Average Days on Market YTD Days 112

(Compared to 104 Days in 2016)   

Active Listings on the Market: 191

(As of 8/15/2017)

Data pulled from the Coeur d'Alene MLS on 9/2/2017



Post Falls, Idaho August 2017 Market Report

Results for Residential Homes Sold Year-to-Date (YTD) 2017 in Post Falls, Idaho

Homes Sold YTD
799
(Decrease of 3.5% from the same time period 2016)

Average Sale Price YTD$255,812
(Increase of 12.63% from the same time period 2016)

Median Sale Price YTD:  $228,000
(Increase of 13.79% from the same time period 2016)

Average Days on Market YTD Days 93
(Compared to 97 Days in 2016)   

Active Listings on the Market: 413
(As of 8/15/2017)

Data pulled from the Coeur d'Alene MLS on 9/2/2017
View from Kiwanis Park in Post Falls, Idaho. Photo by Tosh Lanquist.


Hayden, Idaho August 2017 Market Report

Results for Residential Homes Sold Year-to-Date (YTD) 2017 in
Hayden, Idaho


Homes Sold YTD
425

Hayden Lake.  Photo by Tosh Lanquist
(Increase of 18.1% from the same time period 2016)

Average Sale Price YTD$331,449

(Increase of 13.69% from the same time period 2016)

Median Sale Price YTD:  $280,832

(Increase of 10.8% from the same time period 2016)

Average Days on Market YTD 88 Days
(Compared to 97 Days in 2016)   

Active Listings on the Market: 210

(As of 8/15/2017)

Data pulled from the Coeur d'Alene MLS on 9/2/2017




Coeur d'Alene, Idaho August 2017 Market Report

Coeur d'Alene Resort, photo by Tosh Lanquist
Results for Residential Homes Sold Year-to-Date (YTD) 2017 in
Coeur d'Alene, Idaho


Homes Sold YTD
: 1,020 

(Decrease of 1.6% from the same time period 2016)

Average Sale Price YTD$318,722

(Increase of 17.9% from the same time period 2016)

Median Sale Price YTD:  $263,141

(Increase of 14.41% from the same time period 2016)

Average Days on Market YTD84 Days

(Compared to 93 Days in 2016)   

Active Listings on the Market: 628

(As of 8/15/2017)

Data pulled from the Coeur d'Alene MLS on 9/2/2017






Kootenai County Idaho August 2017 Market Report

Results for Residential Homes Sold Year-to-Date (YTD) 2017 in Kootenai County Idaho

Homes Sold YTD
2,877

(Increase of 3% from the same time period 2016)

Average Sale Price YTD$298,765

(Increase of 13.31% from the same time period 2016)

Median Sale Price YTD:  $251,000

(Increase of 13.06% from the same time period 2016)

Average Days on Market YTD 94 Days

(Compared to 99 Days in 2016)   

Active Listings on the Market: 1,805

(As of 8/15/2017)

Data pulled from the Coeur d'Alene MLS on 9/2/2017
Lake Coeur d'Alene.  Photo by Tosh Lanquist