Hidden Gems: Underrated Areas in Boise

Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate Boise contains a diverse tapestry of neighborhoods, from the famous North End to the breathtaking Highlands and historic East End. However, many wonderful neighborhoods often go unnoticed in the shadow of these well-known areas. While Boise is known for its friendly atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings, it's the lesser-explored neighborhoods that truly capture the essence of Boise's unique character. Dive into these underrated areas in Boise with us and discover Boise’s best-kept secrets!   Boise Bench: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate Perched right above downtown Boise sits the Boise Bench, a historic area that has homed Boise citizens for over 100 years. The Bench has a unique, eclectic energy that is beloved by its residents. Homes in this area are a mix of mid-century modern, newly built residences, and longstanding homes with lots of character. Within these streets, you will find Spanish Mission, Colonial Revival, European Cottages, Cape Cods, and Tudor style homes, a testament to this spot's vibrant mix of cultures. Its central location is prized, sitting minutes from downtown Boise, the airport, the Boise River, the Greenbelt, and Boise State University. The culinary scene here is very active, with highlights including Wyld Child, Luciano’s Italian, Blue Bench Brunchette, and locally sourced handmade ice cream spot The Stil.   NW Boise/Sunset: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate This charming northwest Boise neighborhood is known for its mature trees, long standing homes, and tight-knit community. With prime access to the foothills through the Hillside to Hollow Reserve, this neighborhood is full of active hikers, mountain bikers, and walkers. This area also has an abundance of public parks, from Veteran’s Park to Sunset Park, a 10-acre public park with a 4.3-acre off-leash dog area. Quail Hollow Golf Course is nearby, and there are plenty of locally-owned restaurants to grab dinner at. Residents often say living in Sunset is like the North End lifestyle without the price tag, and homes do not stay on the market long in this area.    Mountain View: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate Located in West Boise and centered around Mountain View Road, this area contains a charming neighborhood with incredible homesites overlooking views of the Boise Front. This area features close access to the Boise River and Greenbelt trails. It is a short 9-minute drive to downtown Boise and about 15 minutes to the airport. Mountain View Elementary is only a few minutes walk, and homes in this area are mainly prebuilt, as well as a mix of remodeled or new construction. This neighborhood is beloved by families for its proximity to elementary and secondary schools.   Garden City: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate Garden City is a vibrant neighborhood that is quickly growing in popularity. This neighborhood sits right next to the Boise River, Quinn’s Pond, and the Boise Whitewater Park, beloved recreation spots for paddleboarders, kayakers, and surfers. The Greenbelt runs right along the river, inviting residents out for a morning jog or an evening walk. With many trendy breweries and wine-tasting rooms on nearby Chinden Blvd and the popular venue the Revolution Concert House, there is plenty to do. Homes vary from newly built subdivisions, townhome complexes right by the river, and existing homes. There is an exciting culinary scene here, with favorites including Cafe Lucios, Push and Pour coffee, Wildflour Bakery, and Dickey’s BBQ Pit.

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The Future of Real Estate: Emerging Trends to Watch

Photo Credit: Doug Petersen As the new year begins, real estate continues to change and evolve to fit with technological advancements and shifting societal norms. From sustainable living to virtual tours, several trends are shaping the future of housing. Let's explore these emerging trends that are expected to leave a lasting impact on how we buy, sell, and live in our homes.   Home Efficiency: Photo Credit: David FishEnvironmentally friendly living is taking center stage in the real estate landscape. As sustainability becomes sought after by buyers, “green homes” are gaining popularity. These houses incorporate eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient appliances, solar panels, and energy-efficient windows. These homes not only positively impact the environment, but also can lead to lower energy bills for the homeowners.    Smart Features: Photo Credit: David Fish The integration of smart technologies is revolutionizing the way we interact with our living spaces. Smart homes with connected devices and automation systems offer enhanced security, energy efficiency, and convenience. These high-tech devices include thermostats that can be set on your phone, security systems that can be controlled remotely, and smart lighting throughout the house. These devices add convenience to our homes and buyers are prioritizing homes with tech built in. The future holds the promise of even more sophisticated and interconnected smart home solutions, making our living spaces comfortable and intelligent.   Home Office Space: Photo Credit: Doug Petersen The rise of remote work has changed what homebuyers are looking for in their ideal homes. With an increasing number of people working from home, homebuyers now prioritize dedicated office space. The real estate industry is adapting to this shift, with builders and developers incorporating flexible and multifunctional spaces to accommodate these needs. The home is transforming from a living space to a versatile place that supports both life and work, a lingering change from the pandemic.   Smaller Single Family Homes, More Townhomes, Larger Condos: Photo Credit: Tony Moody Higher mortgage interest rates and a shift in lifestyle have placed emphasis on smaller single family homes with less bedrooms. The National Association of Home builders says that the median square footage of new single family homes is 2,261, a little more than 200sf smaller than in 2015.. At the same time, renters are seeking more space to accommodate changes in remote work and more luxury amenities. Demand for luxury apartments remains intact heading into 2024, especially in retirement areas like Florida and Arizona.    Natural and Native Landscaping: Photo Credit: Doug Petersen Concerns over climate change and resource availability is forcing homeowners to reconsider whether the grass is greener on the other side. Yards consisting of native/drought-tolerant plants, rock, and other hardscape are being prioritized over lush, water hungry lawns. In desert climates like Idaho, Arizona, and California, xeriscaping has been popularized and is becoming more accepted by HOAs. Rising Home Prices and Less Inventory: As demand for housing continues to surge, the real estate market is grappling with rising home prices and dwindling inventory. The National Association of Real Estate predicts home prices to rise by 2.6% in 2024. The competitive market will force buyers to act swiftly, while sellers enjoy the benefits of increased property values.

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5 Places to Take Out-of-Town Visitors in Boise to Enjoy Fall

Credit: Courtney Smith via Unsplash As Thanksgiving draws closer, friends and family begin making plans to visit. Wondering where to take your guests to enjoy Boise’s beautiful fall season? We have compiled a list of the best places to take out-of-town visitors to show them the best of Boise in the fall!   See the Foliage from the top of Camel’s Back Park: Photo courtesy of Getty Images Boise is the known as the City of Trees and what better place to see it in its full glory than up at Camel’s Back Park? Camel’s Back Park sits in the heart of the North End of Boise. The park sits at the base of a large hill in the shape of a camel’s back, giving the park its name. A short but steep hike up stairs will reward you with stunning views of the valley as the city of trees begins to change color. The park also offers a large playground, tennis courts, picnic tables, outdoor gym, and sand volleyball courts. Bring your visitors by for sunset or a midday picnic!   Explore the local Farmers Market: The Boise Farmers Market is open every Saturday through October from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 1500 Shoreline Drive and is the perfect place to find locally grown fall produce. The Capitol City Public Market focuses more on pre-made food, art, and produce and remains open through December. Take your visitors on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at The Grove Plaza for some cinnamon sugar mini donuts or some locally made apple cider to experience the magic of Boise!    See a Boise State Football game: Home to Boise State University and its iconic blue turf stadium, Boise’s college football scene comes alive in the fall. Located near downtown along the Boise River, Albertson’s Stadium is the perfect place to bring guests for a fun event. The roar of one of the loudest crowds in college football and the sea of blue and orange make these games exciting even for those who are less than diehard fans. Get your tickets here!   Walk along the Greenbelt: Credit: Lysi Bishop Real Estate The Greenbelt is an iconic paved path that follows the Boise River as it wanders through Boise. Give your visitors a classic Boise experience elevated by the stunning scenery of orange and red leaves falling from the trees. Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year to walk or ride on the Boise Greenbelt. Get out on the Greenbelt and show your guests the natural beauty of fall in Boise!   Experience Hyde Park: Credit: Lysi Bishop Real Estate Sitting in the North End of Boise, Hyde Park is the perfect place to explore with guests. Stop by Java for breakfast, Parilla Grill for lunch, and Hyde Park Pub and Grill for dinner. Or, grab coffee at Hyde Perk (known for its special seasonal drinks) and wander around the local boutiques and stores that give Hyde Park its authentic feel. This is the perfect place for visitors to get a locally-made memento of their time in Boise!

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