Posts from June 2026
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18
House Hunting This Summer? 7 Things Buyers Should Look Beyond the Staging
Summer is one of the busiest seasons for home buying. Longer days, school breaks, and beautiful weather make it an ideal time to tour properties. While it's easy to fall in love with stylish furniture, fresh flowers, and perfectly arranged décor, savvy buyers know there's much more to a home than its staging.
As you tour homes this summer, look beyond the surface and pay attention to these important details that can affect your comfort, maintenance costs, and long-term satisfaction.
1. The Age and Condition of Major Systems
A beautifully staged home can...
4
Understanding Mortgages
Most people can't afford to pay for a home with cash. Rather, they must qualify for a mortgage, which is a home loan, typically from a financial institution. A mortgage is made of three components:
- Down Payment - This is the amount of cash you bring to the purchase. Typical down payments range between 3% and 20% of the home's price - the higher the down payment, the lower the mortgage. On many conventional loans, a down payment of 20% or more allows you to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), which can add a meaningful amount to your monthly payment. PMI costs vary based on loan size and other factors, so it's worth asking your lender how it would apply to your specific loan.
- Monthly P...
2
Summer Berries in the Treasure Valley: Where to Pick, Buy & Enjoy Idaho's Sweetest Harvest
From strawberries in early summer to raspberries and blackberries later in the season, berry picking is one of the sweetest traditions in the Treasure Valley. Whether you're gathering a basket at a local U-pick farm, browsing the farmers market, or stocking up to make homemade treats, summer berries are a delicious way to celebrate the season.
Where to Pick or Buy Fresh Berries
The Berry Ranch (Nampa)
A longtime Treasure Valley favorite, The Berry Ranch is known for its U-pick strawberries and seasonal produce. Check availability before visiting, as picking dates vary based on weather and harvest conditions. 7998 Highway 20/26