Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty

The Faces Behind the Camera

2012-03-05T10:03:00.000-07:00

In celebration of the new snow last week, and in hopes that our SVSIR agentshave enlisted their photographers to run around and get (more, professional) winter photos oftheir listings, I want to show you the faces behind the camera, and theirdedication to getting that perfect “shot”.

We are extremely lucky to have very talented photographersin our area who work well with agents in order to visualize a homes’ story, soI sent each of them four quick questions to answer, both real estate related,and not:

1. What is yourfavorite room in a home?
2. When you are notphotographing real estate, what is your subject of choice?
3. What home haveyou photographed for our office that stands out the most?
4. What one tip would you give an amateurphotographer if they decided to take their own photographs of a home?

And here are the results, starting with the short windedones: (pay close attention to the advice given in number four, as I know manyof you still use your own photography skills)

Fred Lindholm:

1. LivingRoom | 2. Women | 3. 30 Osprey Lane | 4. Useyour flash.

1. Fred in action. 2. 30 Osprey Lane

To contact Fred leave a note with your email address in thecomments, and I will get you his information.

Roland Lane:

1. Den | 2. Wildlife | 3. 13 Independence Creek | 4. Usea tripod.

1. Roland Lane 2. 13 Independence Creek

To contact Roland and view more of his work visit, http://www.rolandlancelane.com/

Josh Wells:

Josh Wells on set.

1. The Kitchen, especially when it opensto the living/great room. It usually hasthe most character and it’s where people love to entertain.

2. Productsand retail establishments. I likebusiness. I like commerce. And I like to help my clients capture theirproducts in a way that helps their businesses succeed.

3. Elkhorn Springs – It's a beautifulproperty that helped revitalize the Elkhorn area. It's tastefully done and it represents aterrific value. And there are a lot ofinteresting components/parts including the tennis courts, pool, golf course andclose proximity to the ski hill.

Elkhorn Springs, by Josh Wells

4. Use a tri-pod – make sure your shotsare level and the light is right.

To contact Josh and view more of his work visit, http://alpinfoto.com/

Tory Taglio:

1. Thekitchen would have to be my favorite room to show in a real estate shoot. Thekitchen is typically the center of all family activity and usually it is thekitchen that carries the personality of the home. As far as good photographsgo, the largest rooms, such as the living rooms are usually the showcase photos

2. Ireally enjoy shooting lifestyle stock photography: skiers, runners, fisherman,and the other activities that represent what makes this valley so unique. It’shard to take a bad picture of people doing what they love.

3. Iphotographed a home on Greenhorn Loop last Summer that willalways standout in my memory. The home was on a beautiful lot and I spent theentire day there shooting for the optimum light quality for both the interiorand the exterior. The sunset photos of the exterior where the quality of lightthat only hits a house for 5 minutes during the day. I just happened to bethere and ready when the timing was perfect. The results were worth it.

Greenhorn Loop by Tory Taglio

4. Spendthe time to find that homes best light, either early AM or later in theafternoon so that the colors of the rooms walls and furniture are accurate andcomplimentary. Using HDR or Photoshop may allow you to shoot in low qualitylight, but these shortcuts give the photos an artificial or even cartoon likeappearance. Colors are not accurate, contrast is muddy and the results arecounterproductive. Sophisticated buyers today are looking at hundreds of photosa day that are professionally photographed to the highest standards. Whenpoorly photographed homes are compared to well photographed homes side by sideon the internet, the poorly photographed homes do not get a second look.

To contact Tory and see more of his work visit, http://torytagliophotography.com/

Each photographer was nominated by one or more of ouragent’s in the Sun Valley Sotheby’s International Realty office.

Five Staging Tips for Selling

2012-02-22T09:30:00.000-07:00

If you want to sell your home fast, there are five things you can do that will ensure a quick sale. Certainly yours will sell ahead of anything else on the market in your competitive set. I’ve condensed these tips into five so you can list them on one hand – much easier to remember!

1. STP – Sort, Toss, Pack

If you’re going to move, you need to sort through all your belongings, and discard or donate them to charity before you pack, right? So why not get a head start? The benefit is that you’ll be really organized when moving time comes, and meanwhile, your home will show in a simple, uncluttered way that allows buyers to envision themselves in your place. Personal items are often a distraction and you want buyers to only see how they would live in your house, condo, or flat.

2. Deep Clean

A deep cleaning inside is paramount, but the outside needs to appear clean and tidy too. Since you’ve done the STP, you now have room to clean because there’s much less stuff in the house. Get into every nook and cranny that you can reach and clean it. Once the counters, bookshelves, and closets are cleaned, do everything in your power to keep them clean and not collect stuff again!

3. Minimize

Scale back or minimize as much as you can. If you have seasonal wardrobes, put one season away so that there’s lots of hanging space in the closet. It’s an optical illusion that makes the closet look bigger. I like to take out 1/3 of what’s hanging. (And guess what? You won’t miss those items anyway.) Do the same with furniture where possible. The trick is to make the rooms look bigger by having less furniture. Store it in the garage if needed. When people look at the garage, they’ll see you’ve already started packing boxes and stacking furniture and think you’re one organized, proactive, go-getter.

4. Be the Buyer

If you golf, you know the saying “Be the ball.” In staging, “Be the buyer.” Sometimes we live a certain way that fits our personal lifestyle, but try to think as if you’re an interior home photographer. How does the room look in the picture? How will the buyer enter the house or the room? What’s the first thing they see? Does the furniture afford an easy traffic pattern? If you always enter from the back door, or garage door, enter through the front door to see what you normally don’t notice. You might think differently about what works and make adjustments.

5. Set the Stage

Yes, just like in the theater, create the scene. First impressions are all-important, so the exterior must be appealing. Plant flowers, mow the lawn, trim shrubs, possibly hang baskets, get a new door mat, maybe a seasonal wreath. Same for the interior – if you have a game table, put out the chess pieces, cookbook open on the stand in the kitchen, set the dining table. However, keep everything simple. Less truly is more.

Now, get to work and have fun while you do it. The process is one of the most rewarding you can have and the results are almost immediate, visible, and beautiful. Once you’ve done this, you may change your living style permanently – forever living in a model home!

Submitted by Pam Colesworthy of Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty

Start with a Gallery Walk, then a Gallery Tour of Homes, and finish it up with Marley in the Mountains

2012-02-13T10:55:00.000-07:00

President's weekend is almost here, and town will be bustling with tourists, locals, and Marley in the Mountains concert goers.

We have quite the weekend activities for you as well, even with days full of skiing. Friday February 17, we are hosting Francette Labatut during the Gallery Walk, 5-8pm. She has a variety of beautiful paintings, many featuring poppies and nature scenes. You can view her work at www.sunvalleysir.com/upclose or http://www.francettelabatut.com/.

Here is a sneak peak:

Coquelicots a... by Francette Labatut

We will also be holding a "Gallery Tour of Homes" on Saturday, February 18, from 1-4pm, featuring 12 listings throughout Sun Valley and Elkhorn. Here is a sneak peak of those as well, and make sure to look for our ad on the back of the arts section in Wednesday's paper, it will have all the details and a map for easy touring.

We hope to see you this weekend at one or both events. And don't forget all of the great events starting later in the evenings featuring the artists that are here for Marley in the Mountains!

A Cold Fishing Day in January...

2012-01-17T10:45:00.000-07:00

The thermometer in the truck said 17 degrees. I’d run out of excuses for not putting the waders on and hiking down to the river, so I suited up and begrudgingly set off. The sunlight was reflecting off the canyon walls and when I got down to the banks of the first pool it was warm enough to take the hat, jacket, and gloves off and bask in the sun. However, there were dark rainbows cruising over the light colored cobble feeding, which promptly ended my sunbathing.

Like a lot of winter fishing days in the Wood River Valley, you win a few, you lose a few and some days you’re a rock star. Today was no exception. Today there were trophy fish moving in singles and doubles, and they were eating my zebra midges. Today I fished like a geek and lost most of the significant fish. But not all. When the sun got low, winter returned and it was time to go home. The thermometer still read 17 degrees when I got back to the car. Not a bad 4 hours in January.

We in the Wood River Valley are blessed with some of the best fly-fishing in the world. The winter months, with a little extra effort, are some of the finest angling opportunities. The fish are less selective, they are grouped up in the deeper runs, and even though most of the fishing is done with nymphs, some dry fly-fishing is available. The window of fishing is shorter, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm on most days weather permitting. Next time you’re planning your Sun Valley ski trip, think about adding a day of fishing to your agenda. It will become a tradition.

Submitted by Jim Holcomb of Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty

A Perfect Ski Day in Sun Valley

2012-01-13T11:17:00.000-07:00

The idea of a "perfect ski day" will vary so completely from person to person that I don't believe you could ever really pin down that one, ideal day. Stories could range anywhere from 8 am lift lines for first tracks in deep powder, to a late start with plenty of time spent hopping from lodge to lodge on the mountain, to a secluded nordic ski, or a backcountry adventure.... they are plentiful and endless.

Here we have just a couple of these days contributed by two of our agents.

A Perfect Ski Day in Sun Valley

Every ski day in Sun Valley is perfect, but some are more perfect than others. Remember that powder day! It had snowed all night and the mountain ski report said 14 inches had fallen on Baldy. There was already a good base. We were in the lift line at 8:00 am and the snow was still lightly falling. As more and more skiers arrived, they hassled each other to be one chair closer to getting to the top. We waited and waited while the avalanche control crews were hard at work getting the slopes ready for the onslaught.

Finally, they started loading the lift and the adrenaline rush made us all a little crazy. Everyone was planning their first runs. Which runs are open? How many runs can we make with new tracks before we head for the trees? The ride up is filled with anticipation and excitement. My favorite powder ski buddy is sitting beside me. We have been searching for the best powder on this mountain for over 50 years and cherish each and every opportunity. There are endless secret skiing lines between the trees when the runs get skied out.

We reach the top. The bowls and Seattle Ridge are not open yet, so we settle on Ridge. It is a wide open sea of perfect white, so beautiful, it could be heaven. Run after run we are thrilled and amazed at the wonders of this great mountain. We hear that the bowls will open around noon. By the time we get there, the ridge overlooking Little Easter Bowl is already lined with skiers waiting to make first tracks. At last, the signal is given and we are off! Remember that perfect, floating feeling? Thank you Baldy and Sun Valley Company!

Submitted by Anne Zauner of Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty

My Perfect Day Skiing

There is a magical phenomenon that happens when it’s snowing and sunny at the same time. The air is filled with diamonds flashing rainbows of sparkles. Last year, I was skate skiing north of Ketchum at Billy’s Bridge with my dog, and this magic happened. With the soft corduroy track, my happy dog racing ahead of me, the absence of another person and the views of the Boulders through the sparkling air, my ski was absolutely mystical. It seemed I could ski faster than ever with little effort, and at the crest of a hill, I stopped and just stood in the warmth of the sun basking in this beautiful abundance of diamonds swirling all around me. I don’t think I’ll ever forget that moment as long as I live.

Submitted by Suzanne Walsh of Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty

A Golden Opportunity

2012-01-10T16:32:00.001-07:00

We are at a crossroads in our real estate market.
2011 sales are up about 25% over 2010, a 25% increase over 2009. In 2009, we had the lowest number of sales reported in the last 15 years in our local MLS. We've trended up from the bottom for the last two years, and prices have not yet begun to rise. Judging by pending versus active listings, prices in some sectors have stabalized, while other sectors have yet to reach bottom.

For example, in the low-end sector of single family home sales under $100,000, there are 21 properties on the market and 13 of those are pending; evidence that this market sector has stabalized.

We believe other market sectors will even out in the weeks and months ahead.

This is a golden opportunity to buy with prices still low, and demand getting stronger. Carefully watch your favorite market sectors for th earrival of your ideal window to but. WIth interest rates remaining low, inflation and unemployment dropping, we have ideal conditions for buyers to invest in Sun Valley.

Don't miss the winter edition of our catalog, Sun Valley Style, on stands and also viewable online:

Submitted by Suzanne Walsh of Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty

Click here to view our catalog.

A 2011 Recap and a Happy New Year!

2012-01-03T11:43:00.000-07:00

Although we have weathered a challenging real estate climate over the last four years, there are positive signs emerging. For our office alone, we sold 44.7% more listings in 2011, than 2010. And while our median sales price was down 31.5% (-31.5%), we still generated a 21.5% increase in total dollar volume sold from the previous year.

I might add that our MLS as a whole did not see the gains that our office did. Year over year, 2010 vs. 2011, MLS data reports a gain of 22% for units sold, with the average sales price being down 23% (-23%). The year ended with the total dollar volume sold being down 6% (-6%).

Our market share at the end of 2011 is 28%! This is up substantially from the 23.46% we had in 2010.

So, all in all, not a bad year after all! Congratulations to everyone for an outstanding 2011!

Source: Sun Valley Board of Realtors

Submitted by Darlene Young, Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty

Gallery Opening with Tal Roberts and Mary Stratton

2011-12-29T09:59:00.000-07:00

For the first time ever, Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty is opening their office doors to the public for the December 30, 2011 Gallery Walk. We are hosting two artists; Mary Stratton and Tal Roberts.

Both artists use very different mediums so be prepared for encaustic painting as well as black and white action photography. Please join us Friday December 30, 5:00 - 8:00 pm for art and beverages.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Warren Miller's "How to Prepare for the Ski Season"

2011-12-22T16:02:00.000-07:00

Tom left his Skiing Heritage Magazine in my car the other day, and this was on the back cover:

How to Prepare for the Ski Season

10. Visit your local butcher and pay $30 to sit in the walk-in freezer for half an hour. Afterwards, burn two $50 dollar bills to warm up.

9. Go to the nearest hockey rink and walk across the ice 20 times in your ski boots carrying two pairs of skis, accessory bag and poles. Pretend you are looking for your car.

8. For ski boot simulation at home, put a pebble in your street shoes and tighten a C-clamp around your toes.

7. But a pair of gloves and immediately throw one away.

6. Go to McDonald's and insist on paying $6.50 for a hamburger. Be sure to wait in the longest line.

5. Clip a lift ticket to the zipper of your jacket and ride a motorcycle fast enough to make it lacerate your face.

4. Drive slowly for five hours - anywhere - as long as it's in a snowstorm and you're following an 18-wheeler.

3. Fill a blender with ice, hit the pulse button and let the spray blast your face. You'd almost believe you're skiing in front of a snowmaker!

2. Dress up in as many clothes as you can and then proceed to take them off because you have to go to the bathroom.

1. Repeat all of the above every Saturday and Sunday. - Warren Miller

Source: Skiing Heritage Magazine

Submitted by Katherine Wessel of Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty

Tranquility: Teahouse, Wellness, Cafe... and mostly gluten free!

2011-12-21T13:25:00.000-07:00

Every Tuesday morning we hold our office meeting at one of our current, and usually new listings.... this week was a bit different. We were invited to Tranquility.

Recently, one of our agents, Pam Colesworthy, began a new venture. Pam wanted to bring something new to the Valley, and stemming from her love of teas and healthy foods, thus became Tranquility.

“Tranquility will offer our customers a place to relax, enjoy and exhale from everyday stress with teas from all over the world, gluten free and non-gluten foods and boutique gifts,“ said Colesworthy. “Our goal is to serve as a community gathering place that provides a sanctuary for general wellness and learning through the healing properties of tea and related products.”

Tranquility Teahouse, locally owned and operated by Pam Colesworthy, a Ketchum resident for 20 years, is now open Monday-Saturday from 10:00am-7:00pm. Located at 580 Washington St. N. in Ketchum, the new business fills a much needed desire and demand as the only dedicated teahouse in The Wood River Valley.

Along with 30 varieties of teas, Tranquility will feature a tasting bar where customers can sample their choice of different teas, including green, black, macha, and chai. A menu of savory bites such as soups and salads, hummus, tofu and edamame, all made from different teas bases, will complement the selection of sweet treats. Tranquility also plans to offer beer and wine on their menu in the very near future.

Assisting Pam are two Ketchum residents, Sylvie Dore’ and Tobin Jutte. Sylvie is Tranquility’s Tea Master with extensive knowledge of teas and a special interest in the healing properties’ of teas and herbs. In the kitchen, Tobin is the Food Curator, creating savory bites, hearty soups, a variety of salads, Panini and sweet treats at Tranquility. Both Sylvie and Tobin bring their experience and talents to the teahouse, creating a delicious and comforting respite for all. Source: Tranquility Press Release

Not only do they sell tea, treats and gluten-free snacks, there is also a variety of gifts priced from $5-$20 including Leakey Jewelry that supports a school in Kenya, Bath Petals products made with sea salt and essential oils, teas from Tao of Tea, tea ware from a number of producers, plus essential oils diffusers from Floracopeia. Their array of crystals is from a local world-wide collector, and the Five Bee Honey is as local as it comes, produced in Hailey, Idaho!

And don't forget to check out their facebook page for a sneak peek at the delicious food that is served, or their website for a complete list of items (teas and snacks) on their menu. You will be pleasantly surprised at the prices and the cozy environment.

Feel free to give them a call for daily specials, questions and more information! 208.726.0095.

The Other Type of Skiing

2011-12-16T10:07:00.000-07:00

Video courtesy of bcrd.org

When thinking of Sun Valley you immediately think about the best Alpine skiing on the planet, however Sun Valley boasts world class Nordic skiing throughout the Wood River valley. With 240 kilometers of groomed trails that the Sun Valley Company and the Blaine County Recreation Districts provides. There are trails for all abilities that include several trails for our four-legged friends; dogs might even like Nordic skiing better than their masters. From January 28^th through February 5^th, Sun Valley sponsors Nordic Week that includes a 33 kilometer race called the Boulder Mountain Tour and lots of other fun Nordic events. Sun Valley and Galena Lodge offer Nordic ski instruction to help get you on your skis quicker. This is a great alternative to Alpine skiing, yet it is very complimentary to Alpine skiing in the sense of balance and strength. To learn more about the wonders of Nordic skiing check out the Blaine County Recreation District’s and the Sun Valley Company’s websites; www.bcrd.org and www.sunvalley.com/mountain/nordic

Submitted by Tom Heinrich of Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty

Sun Valley Holiday Tree Lighting

2011-12-14T14:04:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, December 17, the giant christmas tree in the Sun Valley Village will light up the night sky for the holidays. Festivities will begin around 5pm in the Sun Valley Village with free hot chocolate, cookies, ice & snow sculpture displays, Christmas Caroling and a special visit by Santa! Source: sunvalley.com

A great holiday event to attend with your visitors or family. Don't forget your camera the ice sculptures are amazing!

See you there, Hollie

Shared by Hollie Hunter, Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty

This weekend we celebrate the snow, the sun and the people that make Powder Magazine

2011-12-08T08:55:00.000-07:00

There’s a 40^th Birthday Party happening in Sun Valley this weekend unlike any celebration you have ever been to. Born in Sun Valley, Idaho in 1972, Powder Magazine was the radical idea of local ski patrolman Jake Moe who wanted to publish a magazine focused on the emotion and sensations of powder skiing, with a heavy focus on photos and awe inspiring imagery. Jake Moe was living in paradise in Sun Valley in the 1970’s and was surrounded by many cool skiers that inspired his quest for a new type of ski magazine. With a lot of help from his brother and other friends in Sun Valley, Powder Magazine published its first issue in 1972. Now Powder is widely regarded as the premier ski magazine around the world. Known as the Skier’s Magazine, Powder takes its readers on a skiing adventure around the globe, giving insight on the culture and emotion that the die-hard skier experiences every time he clicks into his skis.

This weekend, Powder editors, writers, photographers and guests are bringing the celebration to Sun Valley. With the marquee event on Friday night, The Powder Prom, you can expect to see locals and Powder fans alike dressed in their 70’s best to celebrate the people, the snow and the culture that founder Jake Moe wanted to praise through the pages of the magazine. The fun continues on Baldy Saturday, with a hot dog contest, then there will be a Powder cover auction at Ochi Gallery followed by a Powder Party. All of the weekend’s festivities will support the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation. Hope to see you all in your retro suits for another great weekend in Sun Valley!

Submitted by Katherine Schroder of Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty

Luxury Rentals - Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty Rental Division

2011-12-06T08:45:00.002-07:00

Sun Valley Sotheby’s International Realty introduces another fine service for our real estate clients; short term vacation and long term rentals!

With our worldwide presence in the real estate marketplace, and the fact that we remain the market leader in real estate sales in the Sun Valley area, we are busy adding beautiful well appointed homes and condominiums to our rental offerings.

Let us share with you our charming communities, natural beauty, limitless outdoor activities, fine shopping, cultural events, and relaxing pace. Our rental agents will secure the perfect property for your visit here in the Sun Valley area, and provide a carefree vacation experience for all members of your family and friends.

Featured below are rentals still available for Christmas, so act fast!

This beautifully designed furnished French-inspired stone and stucco cottage is located in a lovely, quiet neighborhood in Ketchum. The property is near Atkinson's Park, public tennis courts, and a public ice rink in winter. Sun Valley Rides provides free bus and van service area wide, with stops nearby. The open floor plan of the main floor offers a beautiful kitchen complete with custom cabinets, granite counters, Subzero, Dacor and Bosch appliances, stone floors, dining area, and living room with wood burning fireplace, and powder room. French doors open to stone terraces, and a beautiful private garden with hot tub. Main floor master bedroom has a soaking tub, shower and pedestal sink. French doors access the terrace and garden. A chestnut and iron winding staircase climbs to a carpeted landing with a seating area, second master bedroom with Queen four-poster bed, office/twin bedroom, bathroom with shower, WC, pedestal sink, limestone floors, and balcony. A finished basement with chest freezer, washer and dryer, storage with exterior access completes the cottage. A one-bedroom apartment with an efficiency kitchen, bathroom, and washer and dryer is accessed through a private entry over a detached two-car garage. Click here for photos and property details.

Quiet location in a popular Ketchum neighborhood. Three queen bedrooms, four bathrooms, one handicap shower, fully equipped kitchen, dining room with wood burning fireplace, and private fenced yard. Eclectic furnishings have a wonderful western feel of comfort and quality. Public tennis courts, ice skating rink in winter, and resort shuttle nearby. Attached garage adds convenience. Pricing varies with season. Click here for photos and property details.

Within minutes of the year round resort communities of Ketchum and Sun Valley, this expertly designed and furnished five bedroom home includes a main floor master suite with fireplace, his and her bathrooms, whirlpool tub and two showers, open dine-in chef's kitchen, gracious living room with fireplace, private study, office, laundry room and powder room. Four second floor bedrooms including a Queen with private bathroom, two twins with private bath with shower, suite with Queen room and twin room with large shared bath. 4500 square feet single family home in golf course community, Clubhouse with pool, spa, and tennis courts - Summer only. Zenergy Health Spa minutes away. Fully equipped kitchen with six burner gas cook top and griddle, two dishwashers, bar sink, warming oven, kitchen/dining area fireplace, breakfast counter with three bar stools, wood, marble and stone counter surfaces. Seating for eight at dining table with additional seating for four at breakfast table plus counter provides seating for fifteen guests. Click here for photos and property details.

This luxury three bedroom and four bath townhome at beautiful Ski View is available for rent. The design and quality of construction are superb. The property is located directly on Trail Creek, and lives up to its name with amazing views of Bald Mountain's River Run ski runs and the newly installed gondola. The sound of the creek can be enjoyed from the decks located on each level. This quiet retreat is accessed by a heated paver driveway, and features an attached heated two car garage. The home is professionally decorated with select local custom-made furnishings. Large windows embrace the panoramic views. Enjoy three flat screen high-definition televisions, including one in the lower level media room. Take time to relax in your private hot tub overlooking Trail Creek. The townhome enjoys a fantastic location. It's an easy few blocks walk to downtown Ketchum where you will find plenty of entertainment, dining and shopping. It's only a two minute drive to the River Run parking to enjoy your day of skiing. Otherwise, walk, jog, or bike to the trail. Don't feel like driving, just leave your car at home and hop the free shuttle bus near the Ski View entrance. The kitchen is well-equipped and features granite countertops, an island with bar stools, stained alder cabinets and stainless steel appliances. The built-in custom dining table will comfortably seat eight people. Enjoy the adjacent living room, sitting on the leather couch while reading or watching the flat screen TV located above the raised stone hearth fireplace. Relax in the lower level media/TV room complete with powder room, microwave and refrigerator. All three bedrooms are located on separate floors allowing for privacy throughout the home. The exquisite master suite is located on the top floor with views of Baldy and a large flat screen TV. A king size bed with luxury custom bedspread awaits you. The spacious master bath features oversized separate shower, soaking tub, and extensive use of marble throughout. An office area is available just outside the master bedroom. The second master enjoys a custom queen size bed with luxurious bedspread. The attached bathroom features extensive use of slate. The spacious hot tub is located on the adjacent deck overlooking Trail Creek and Baldy. The first floor bedroom features queen sized bunk beds and a large bathroom with separate sinks. There is plenty of closet space throughout. A generous walk in laundry room features side by side front load washer and dryer. Ski View also offers a community hot tub to its guests. Click here for photos and property details.

Please follow the link below to view all of our current rental properties:

http://www.sunvalleysir.com/eng/rentals/usa

Submitted by Sunni Gadsby of Sun Valley Sotheby’s International Realty

Renting vs. Buying in Sun Valley, Idaho?

2011-11-29T17:25:00.000-07:00

Previously many entry to mid-range buyers were kept out of the local Hailey, Bellevue, and Ketchum housing markets due to pricing and the economics of "rent versus buy" (and limited inventory for sale that was appealing). That is changing as lower housing prices, historically low mortgage interest rates, and compelling inventory have created the opportunity to own for at, or less than renting a comparable dwelling. Bundled with the tax advantages, security of place, and pride of ownership; current Valley housing prices may be the best opportunity to position a new buyer in an equity position for the years to come. The sense our market may have hit bottom in some neighborhoods is balanced with the question of "if so, for how long" and "will interest rates remain low" - given those variables and decreasing inventory of the better properties, the time to consider buying is right now!

-Pam Rheinschild, Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty

Source realtormag.com Strong Temptations for Home Buying

Hot Golf Course Properties in Sun Valley!

2011-08-17T15:06:00.000-06:00

It is not a surprise to most that we have world class skiing, but some tend to forget about our summer activities, and that Sun Valley also boasts world class golfing! Sun Valley Resort was most recently recognized by Golf Digest as one of the Top 75 resort courses in North America!
With five separate golf courses spanning the valley, there are many choices for living the lifestyle.

If you prefer a smaller course, and close to Ketchum, try Bigwood Golf course for in-town golfing. Bigwood is a challenging, yet friendly 9-hole course, 6904 yards, and sponsors numerous tournaments.

This beautiful home is located in a fantastic neighborhood, off of the Bigwood golf course in Ketchum. The floor plan is very comfortable and well thought out with many custom high-end features. The tall ceilings and windows allow for plenty of natural light and give the home a grand feel. The large master is located on the first floor. For more information on this listing please click here.

The city of Sun Valley holds three courses; Trail Creek, White Clouds and Elkhorn golf courses, with plenty of real estate right on and off the actual courses! Trail Creek, a traditional Alpine course, is 18 holes, 6,968 yards, with a par 72. The White Clouds course boasts 360 degree views of the valley and it's mountain ranges. It is 9 holes, 3605 yards and par 36. The Elkhorn golf course, redesigned in 2005, is 18 holes, 7214 yards, and par 72.

This is an incredible opportunity to own one of the very best lots on the Sun Valley Fairways. The west side of Fairway Road is considered Sun Valley's "Gold Coast" and this property is perhaps the most private and spectacular. It boasts over 400 feet of golf course frontage, is across the street from historic Proctor Mountain and has unimpeded views of Baldy and Trail Creek. The home is a classic Sun Valley home with Cherry Creek Rock fireplaces, beautiful wide plank wood floors and traditional architectural lines. View more photos and information here.

This immaculately maintained Legends home, completely remodeled in 2006, is located at the top of the hill in Elkhorn offering magnificent mountain views and plentiful sun. The three bedrooms on the main floor are complimented by baths with travertine floors and slab marble counters and a large soaking tub in the master. The upper level bedroom has vaulted ceilings, skylights, and private bath. Slab granite kitchen counters are complimented by high end stainless steel appliances and ample counter space. The living room and dining area enjoy vaulted ceilings, a river rock fireplace, "Fine Art" chandeliers and sconces. The expanded deck off the living room is large enough for entertaining but private enough for sunbathing. Ownership comes with membership privileges to the two Elkhorn pools, and multiple tennis courts. Nestled in the mountains and both private and quiet, this is the perfect escape! For more photos and information on this property please click here.

Completely renovated three plus bedroom, three bath condo. Sunny deck overlooking the golf course and mountains. Open and spacious living areas, wine storage, two car attached garage, main floor master, new cabinets, carpet, appliances, plumbing, lighting. In model home condition. For more photos and information on this listing, please click here.

Great location with privacy and sun. Near the Elkhorn pool complex with hot tub, tennis courts, restaurant and future store, but overlooking the golf course and mountains to the east and south provides peace and quiet. Garage included. Enlarged deck and remodeled kitchen. Three bedroom, two bath unit is all on one floor. Large walk-in pantry. For more photos and information on this listing, please click here.

If you prefer the private and set back course, Mid-Valley holds the Valley Club. A unique golf community located in between Ketchum and Hailey.

Five bedroom, five full and one-half bath lodge-style family home at the Village Green. Extra media/recreation room, first floor master suite with stone fireplace, chef's gourmet kitchen, stone and hardwood floors throughout. Enjoy great golf course views over the lake from the large outdoor patio. For more photos and information on this property, please click here.

All of these golf course properties were selected by the agents at Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty.

Summer Newsletter and our online catalog... SunValleyStyle!

2011-07-08T14:31:00.002-06:00

What to do in Sun Valley in June?

2011-06-07T10:50:00.000-06:00

June may be a month of cold snaps, heat waves and rainstorms, but there are still plenty of things to do inside and outside this month whether the weather is cooperating or not.

Starting with this weekend, we have LunaFest: Short Films by, for, about women.

A fundraising film festival dedicated to promoting awareness about women's issues. They are hosted by Girls on the Run at NextStage theatre June 11, with all proceeds going to the Breast Cancer Fund and Girls on the Run. $15 in advance and $20 at the door, 6:30 beer/wine reception; 7:30 showing.

Also this weekend, June 11, is the Adam's Gulch Fun Run and Walk:

Starts at Ketchum Skate Park, Warm Springs Road, heads through Adams Gulch, over Heidleburg Hill and back to skate park covering a distance of approximately 4.2 miles on a road and dirt trail. No advance registration or fee.... yes that's right, FREE! Race starts promptly at 10am!

Another athletic event this weekend, is the Sawtooth Relay.

If you are not already signed up with your team, come cheer on the runners when they go through the finish line! The Sawtooth Relay, about a 62 mile course, is open to running and walking teams and ultra-marathoners. (Six member teams will run or walk about 5 miles twice). The Relay begins at the Stanley Elementary School and finishes at Atkinson Park in Ketchum.

If you prefer music, Friday night at the Sun Valley Brewery is Graham Lindsey.

Montana based Banjo/lyrical master will be playing starting at 8pm. For more information on him and his music visit http://www.myspace.com/grahamlindsey

Galena and the Trails BBQ will also be happenning on Saturday June 11, from 11am - 2pm.

Diners who come to the barbecue are eligible to receive a free entry for a chance to win a 2011/12 Blaine County Recreation District Nordic season pass. Lunch is $15 per person and includes the barbecue and non-alcoholic beverages served by the Galena & the Trails Advisory Council and BCRD board and staff. A no host bar will also be available. For more information please visit: http://www.galenalodge.com

And a sneak peek for next week:

June 16-18 is the Sheeptown Fat Tire Rally - "Three days of crazy fun"
Visit http://farca.wordpress.com/ for more information, but man does it look fun!

Take a Stroll at the Girl's on the Run 5K in the Wood River Valley!

2011-05-16T15:47:00.000-06:00

Rain, snow, sun... hail? You never know exactly what the weather is going to be in the Wood River Valley, but Saturday, May 21, prepare for anything when you join us and many, many others at the "Girls on the Run 5K." Now don't be scared, there is no required running. Strolling, jogging, walking, skipping, and hopping are all acceptable ways of participating.
As an annual sponsor of the "Girls on the Run 5K", we would love to have you join us in supporting the program here in the Wood River Valley.

"The 10-week after school program for 3rd - 8th grade girls is offered each fall and spring. It involves interactive activities to promote self-esteem and improve emotional and physical health. During the 10-week program, girls are empowered with a greater self-awareness, a sense of achievement and a foundation in team building to help them become strong, contented and self-confident young women."
- http://www.girlsontherunwrv.org/ourprogram.html

Please join us on Saturday May 21, at Heagle Park, to walk, run or strool through the Della View neighborhood in Hailey. An event for the entire family!
There will be inflatable activites for kids, music and games, and healthy living information offered by community organizations!

*All photos courtesy of Girls on the Run

Week of Green - Xeriscape Gardening

2011-04-22T12:01:00.000-06:00

It is finally Earth Day!
I hope everyone is doing there part, hopefully everyday, to conserve, recycle and green their lives.
Our final "Week of Green" blog is on Xeriscape Gardening. One of the more intensive ways to conserve, but a great one to end our "week of green" and get everyone excited for the planting and gardening season to come! For those of us in the Sun Valley area, or dealing with high altitude gardening, Xeriscape is a great option for creating a sustainable backyard landscape.

Unfortunately, I do not have any hands on experience with Xeriscape, but those at the Sawtooth Botanical Gardens do! I spoke with Carter Hedburg, the Executive Director, and luck had it, they had just finished their Brochure on Xeriscape Gardening!

All of the information below is courtesy of Sawtooth Botanical Garden.

Now for the questions.

What does Xeriscape mean?
Xerscaping is the use of drought tolerant plant species combined with creative landscaping practices to conserve water. It does not mean zero-scaping or an absence of all vegetation and beauty.

What are the benefits?
Reduction of water usage. Water conservation is extremely important in the arid west. Landscaping needs usually account for 30-50% of domestic water use!

Other benefits:
-Low Maintenance
-Protects Water Quality
-Increases the health and beauty of your surroundings
-Decrease the need for pest control
-Saves the homeowner money

The Seven Principals of Xeriscape:
1. Plan and Design
2. Design Practical Turf Areas
3. Use Appropriate Plants
4. Improve the Soil
5. Use Mulch
6. Irrigate Efficiently
7. Maintain Properly

For more information on the Seven Principals, please visit www.sbgarden.org or call the Sawtooth Botanical Garden at 208.726.9358. They also have workshops and lectures year-round for adults on a variety of horticultural and environmental subjects.

Any other tips and comments on Xeriscape are much appreciated!
Have a wonderful Earth Day!

Week of Green - Tips from our Office Administrator

2011-04-20T17:03:00.002-06:00

Lois, our office administrator, sent me a few tidbits yesterday and I wanted to add them to the blog.

Cut back on copies. The average U.S. office worker goes through 10,000 sheets of copy paper a year, according to the Sierra Club. Rather than printing out all those memos or presentation handouts, send out electronic copies or use recycled paper and double-side your printing.

Our presentation yesterday by Green Irene eco-consultant Rick Lethbridge, covered this same concept... everything he presented to us, was then sent out in an email!

Ship with available resources. Reusing old boxes is an economical way to ship while cutting down on waste. And when you need some packing material, consider using shredded paper.

Say “no” to junk mail. We spend an average of eight months of our lives dealing with junk mail, according to eco-cycle.org. To lighten the load, contact the Direct Marketing Association and register with their mail preference service so you can control the amount of direct mail you receive.

Monitor your indoor environment. When the weather’s cold, keep blinds open to capture as much warmth from the sun as you can, advises energystar.gov. On hot days, draw the blinds shut. Also make sure building vents aren’t blocked and your computer has space around it so air can circulate and help you save energy.

Again, four easy and painless ways to conserve energy and reduce waste!

Please leave comments below with any ideas or other easy ways you "reduce, reuse, and recycle"!

Don't forget to check back tomorrow for another green blog!

"Week of Green" - Green Irene

2011-04-19T16:24:00.000-06:00

This morning a special guest, Rick Lethbridge our local Green Irene Eco-Consultant, joined us at our office meeting. A great supplement to our week of green!

He spoke with us about simple ways to green your office/home, from turning off the lights (didn’t our parents tell us that?) to products used to conserve water, recycling and cleaning.

The Green Irene company works in helping those who would like to learn more, and do their part to green their lives. Their flagship product is their Green Home/Office Makeovers, in which they do a 60-90 minute walk-through of your home/office and “recommend ways to reduce household bills while creating a healthier home for your family.”

“Greening our world, one home and office at a time.” Green Irene's motto.

A Few Tips on Conserving Energy:

-Use a low power energy setting on your computer
-unplug items not in use (vampire power)
-turn down your water heater from 140 to 120 degrees
-consider a tankless water heater option
-cover your pool or hot tub
-clean the coils on your fridge so the compressor doesn't work so hard
-run your dishwasher and laundry when full
-use energy efficient lighting

Some of these many of us already do, and they are just a few simple ways to conserve energy. Recycling/waste reduction, indoor air quality, water conservation, and toxic-free living were also topics covered during the presentation. All very interesting with simple solutions to help reduce and conserve.
For more information on these topics visit their website www.greenirene.com.

To get in touch with our local Ketchum, Idaho Eco-Consultant, Rick Lethbridge, view his webpage:
www.GreenIrene.com/RickKetchum

Here is a link to their catalog, filled with very cool eco products!

http://www.greenirene.com/catalog.aspx

A couple photos from the meeting this morning, thank you Sunni!

A "Week of Green" in Sun Valley

2011-04-18T11:59:00.000-06:00

Green Week Blog #1: Recycling

Let’s be realistic. Recycling is EASY.

I hate to admit it, but I haven’t recycled for that long (I, being the Marketing Director at the Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty office)… cringe… although once I did get it going, it is now second nature. Everything accepted into our bins, in the Sun Valley/Ketchum area, goes into my designated “recycle bin,” aka, the extra garbage can in the garage. The dogs are too interested in it to leave it inside.

It is then sorted on Tuesday (my trash day is Wednesday) in the Blue Bin supplied by our trash removal service, Clear Creek Disposal, for no additional cost if you have residential trash pick up. Additional stackable bins, to make sorting easier, can be purchased for $10.60 (for a 12 gallon bin). Not too bad and yours to keep!

So, now the question: What can I recycle?

To be recycled:

Glass

Tin/Aluminum

Magazines

Newspaper

#1 & #2 plastic bottles (they are labeled somewhere on the bottle, usually the bottom)

Mixed Paper (this includes junk mail, all office paper, envelopes, file folders, cereal boxes, etc.)

Not to be recycled:

Plastic containers that have #1 or #2, but do not have a threaded neck

Aluminum (tin) foil

Pizza boxes and bags that may or may not have food contaminates

Cardboard milk or juice cartons

Pesticide containers

Chemical cans

Paper such as carbon paper, golden rod, deep tone fluorescent dyed paper, medical files, chip board, dark kraft envelopes, and paper items that are glued together.

As for corrugated cardboard, you cannot leave it with your recycling, but there is a community drop off container for Ketchum located at LDS Church on Sun Valley Road. In Sun Valley there is a drop off location at the Fire Station and at City Hall; Hailey’s drop off is at the corner of Bullion and River Street. All other locations can have a special cardboard pick up; call Clear Creek Disposal 208.726.9600 to set it up.

And for those in the office who have not noticed our Recycle Bins by the back door, we DO have them. Five of them to be exact: Mixed Paper, Newspaper, Plastic, Aluminum, and Magazines... Help us out to do our part as an office!

For more information on recycling services in our area, visit http://www.ccdisposal.com/

As for questions, comments and corrections, please leave them. I am interested to know your creative ways to recycle as well!

How to organize your recycle bin:

33rd Annual USCSA National Skiing and Snowboarding Championships

2011-03-09T15:15:00.000-07:00

This week in Sun Valley, the Collegiate National Skiing and Snowboarding Championships have proven to be a great spectator sport! With events in Alpine, Nordic and Snowboarding, there is something for everyone.

If you missed the happenings over the last couple of days, don't fret, there is plenty more to come. With 450 athletes making up the Championship field, the competition is sure to be fierce. Some of the colleges represented are Brown, Stanford, U of O, Ohio State, and Duke, just to name a few.

Here is a video from Day 1 of the Championships:
http://www.youtube.com/sunvalleyresort#p/u/0/D33tR5WW_Kc

On the schedule for tomorrow are Men's Alpine GS on Greyhawk, with Boarder-X and Skier-X on Dollar Mtn. You won't want to miss it!

Check out the entire schedule of events:
http://www.sunvalley.com/assets/files/misc/USCSA_Sun_Valley_2011.pdf

Make sure you get out there and support.... What great energy it has brought to us all in Sun Valley!

A few photos courtesy of alpinfoto, from the Mens Dual Slalom demo at the Opening Ceremonies on Dollar Mountain.

Creating a Vision for Vibrant, Sustainable Future

2011-03-02T14:26:00.003-07:00

Join the Conversation!

A Community Cafe.

What will Ketchum, or the broader community for that matter, look like in 2026? That’s what 64 stakeholders, gathered into 8 groups, over the course of 2.5 days attempted to describe.

Fundamental to creating a consensus among the 64 was unanimous agreement on 9 statements of Common Ground… Sustainable Energy, Life Long Learning, Transportation, Governmental Cooperation, Technological Infrastructure, Culture-Nature-Wellness, Local Food, Vitality and Diversity.

How did this happen? A Planning Team of 20 volunteers with a broad range of connections through out the community invited the 64 participants to the Future Search event in late January, based on the following criteria:

 Who has AUTHORITY or RESOURCES to Create and Promote the Vision? (can either advance or block objectives)

 Who has EXPERTISE, KNOWLEDGE OR PERSPECTIVE about creating a Vibrant and Sustainable Community?

 Who could be MOST AFFECTED by the Outcome?

..

 Who has a genuine level of INTEREST creating vibrant and sustainable community?

The focus was on people not organizations. It was important to include a broad, balanced cross section of the community, considering Gender / Age / Work Experience / Time in Valley, and to include the Usual Suspects and the not-so Usual ones.

Now is the time to engage the broader community in the Discussion. There will be NO LECTURES or PRESENTATIONS, just the opportunity to learn more and participate if and where interested.

So much has happened since the Future Search: many action groups have formed and many connections are being made so to move forward. Please come to the event, share your experience, and find out what the Future Search has stimulated.

It’s important to invite the largest number of interested people as possible. Many hands make light work, and it can be a whole lot of fun too!

Check out the video:
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/video/video.php?v=10150429871635437&comments
Join us at the Jones Building, 4th and Main Street, Ketchum (Above Burger Grille), Thursday March 3, from 3:30pm-7:30pm!

Thank you to Pam Colesworthy for contributing to our office blog!
Check back soon for new and interesting news in the community and our office.

Higher Ground: Healing America's Wounded Veterans in Sun Valley

2011-02-28T11:43:00.001-07:00

"Today I found out that what I thought would be a physical barrier, never was a barrier. I didn't find stress. I found release. I found a side of me that was always there but I was never brave enough to look at it."

-Adam Rollins, U.S. Army

Sun Valley Adaptive Sports makes the above a reality.

Their mission: enriching the lives of people with disabilities through sports and recreation.

One of the agents in our office, Bill Norris, is closely associated with this program, and wrote a short piece about his experiences.

"As a former Officer LT JG serving on the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown during the late 50s in southeast Asia, I have always had a heart for the separation of service members and their families, wives and significant others. I was asked to help 5 years ago as a driver for Sun Valley Adaptive Sports during one of our wounded service member programs. I met a young woman in the front passenger seat with me, she was way too young to have a double amputee son wounded in Iraq in the back seat of my car. His artificial legs were in the trunk and he was yahooing in the back seat, ecstatic with joy to have snowboarded down River Run on our adaptive snowboarding equipment. His 30 something year old mother was his “significant other” and she was equally as ecstatic to see him doing something so amazingly important to his physical and mental recovery with his complicated wounds. Next thing I knew I was serving on the Board of Directors of the organization and personally hosting one of the annual Higher Ground summer watersports camps at our Pettit Lake Cabin with very much “hands on” participation with these incredible brave young men (and their equally brave wives/caretakers ), as they reintegrate into American life with their disabilities and new unexpected challenges. We are now nationally recognized as one of the most sought after campuses in the country for wounded servicemen and their wives/significant others. Typically serving 6 couples at a time, so as to provide intimate physical and mental therapy utilizing adaptive winter and summer sports, including flyfishing, to challenge these men and women to strive once again.
I have so many personal stories I wouldn't know where to start so encourage anyone who wants to be involved to call me at 208.720.0724 and join the Higher Ground program or one of our summer programs serving local Blaine County special needs children, teenagers and young adults…Go Sun Valley Adaptive Sports!"
-Bill

A little bit about the Higher Ground Program:
Higher Ground (HG) utilizes a highly innovative, multidisciplinary approach to therapy that combines sports, family, and coping therapies to restore and rehabilitate men and women of the armed forces who have been severely wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan. HG is recognized as one of the premier rehabilitation programs in the country by the Department of Defense, military medical centers, and veteran service organizations. Often overlooked, a veteran's transition back into civilian life poses challenges that can be as daunting as the physical recovery. Our goal is to give each veteran the physical skills, confidence, and coping strategies necessary for a successful reintegration into their families and communities.

We inspire hope and encourage veterans and their significant others to apply the lessons learned at HG camps to their daily lives. The transformations that take place are truly profound. Veterans leave our program having rediscovered their own potential, committed to not allowing their injuries define who they are.
-Courtesy Sun Valley Adaptive Sports

Please visit the website at www.swasp.org for more information.

Linked are two videos by Mark Oliver
SVASP Wounded Warriors: Segment One and Two
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wb6suRtHfeM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LcYzfFIu_M&feature=related

Below are photos from this and last years events, as well as the information flyer for this weeks program, Feb 27-March 4.

Snowkite Tour Championship in Fairfield!

2011-02-23T16:49:00.000-07:00

A great President's Day weekend is behind us! With 17" of new snowfall accumulating in Sun Valley, a winter wonderland emerged and welcomed the 7400 skiers and snowboarders on Saturday and 6000 on Sunday! Not too shabby!

But of course, there is no lull in the endless activities, and tomorrow starts the Snow Kite Tour Championship in Fairfield, Idaho! In attendance to compete are "skiers and snowboarders, men and women who have competed in tour stops in Montana, Colorado, Utah and Idaho and showcased their talent and race ability." Everyone is invited, as a spectator or even to join in the free 30 minute beginner clinics! The festivities run from February 24-27.

I have posted a few photos below, courtesy of snowkitesoldier.com and Aaron Beck.

Live and Online in More Ways than One!

2011-02-16T09:31:00.000-07:00

While trying to be current on all the social media/blogging platforms; Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, etc. I sometimes forget about our other very easy-to-use and accessible online tools, DIGITAL CATALOGS! While I try to avoid being redundant posting listing after listing on Facebook and Twitter, a little shameless office-promotion never hurts!

Our catalog, SunValley Style,

which is designed and printed twice a year,

is also available for viewing online!

Click HERE to be taken to the online winter edition!

There are a few other online magazines where select listings from our office and others can be viewed as well. RESIDE magazine and RESIDE Locale - Mountain Living.

Make sure to check back soon or follow our blog for interesting information about our area!

The finish line!

2011-02-04T08:51:00.000-07:00

Come join us at the finish line of the Boulder Mountain Tour, Saturday morning February 5, 2011. Just after 11am the top finishers of the 32k race will be gliding through the finish line, followed by 800 of their closest competitors... including a few from our SVSIR office!

Sue Engelmann and Kirsten Ritzau are among the ladies entered from our office, while Tom Heinrich will be a sponsor and managing one of the Preems. He will be awarding a cash prize to the first male and female at the 15k mark.

Many current elite racers from around the world will be in attendance. 2010 Olympic gold medalist Billy Demong will be racing as well as Olympians Jon Engen, Betsy Youngman, Bryan Fletcher, and Erich Wilbrecht.

See you there!

Our broker, Darlene Young, during the 2009 race.

Join us at the finish line!
photo courtesy of www.bouldermountaintour.com

Sun Valley History Ski Buffs and Party Goers!

2011-02-01T16:43:00.000-07:00

Join us tomorrow at 4 at the Forest Service Park in Ketchum. If you haven't seen the "new" museum or met the new director, you really must. It is an asset to the community! Tourism research says that people come to a resort for three reasons: Facilities, Setting and History. We have a rich history and many people to honor.

Submitted by Anne Zauner

The Sun Valley Office Dog... Who Could Resist?

2011-01-26T14:09:00.000-07:00

A flurry of questions, baby voices and squeals, (mainly me), sound through the office as soon as our Managing Broker, Darlene, walks through the door.

"Is he here?" "Did you bring him today?" "Can he sit in my office this morning?"

Recently the Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty office got a new puppy, well not exactly, but we'd all like to think he was ours. Bamse, meaning "little bear" in Norwegian, was just adopted by Darlene and her husband Jon. As to be expected in a town, Sun Valley, of dog lovers everyone has taken on the role of aunt or uncle to the new addition to the office.

Already loving the snowy Sun Valley winter, and his new "office space", the agents and staff at the SVSIR office are fighting for his attention!

The New Year is upon us...

2011-01-20T16:16:00.000-07:00

...therefore, I am finally getting the Office blog started. New Year, new goals!

With that in mind, let us take a quick look back at 2010:

It Is Official... Sun Valley Sotheby's International Realty sells over TWICE as much in dollar volume than our closest competitor*!

- 25.68% SVSIR
- 12.36% (closest competitor)

From a year over year perspective, there have been some key market changes in our entire MLS from 2009 to 2010 including:
-The number of pending sales was up 21%, and the number or sold listings was also up 21%
-The dollar volume for sold properties was up a whopping 39%!
-The average sales price is up by 14% in spite of the foreclosure sales in the south valley.

For OUR OFFICE ALONE, changes from 2009-2010 include:
-October through December pending sales were up 18%
-December pending sales were more than double of those in 2009!

Good Days Ahead!

Make sure to check back often, or even better follow our blog. It will be updated frequently with news on our market, open houses, new listings, and even better, interesting news about Sun Valley, Idaho.

You can also visit us on Facebook, Twitter, youtube, or at sunvalleysir.com!

*Information provided by Sawtooth Board of Realtors Multiple Listing Service is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Recently Sold in Sun Valley!