Watching the Olympics is always a highlight for me, and this year was no exception. Over the past few weeks, our family enjoyed witnessing the remarkable capabilities of the human body, the intensity of competition, and the beauty of people from countries all over the world being united around this incredible event.

Among my favorite events are gymnastics, diving, artistic swimming, and track.  But, what I love most is when I get to witness great athletes from all over the world respond to their competitors, their event, or their successes or failures within that event with joy, grace, and humility. And, what I love most of all is when they give the ultimate glory where it’s due—to Christ. There were many such moments within these games, but two that caught my eye and the eye of several others were the Brazilian surfing bronze medalist, Gabriel Medina, and the American 400-meter hurdles record-breaking gold medalist, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone. 

The above photo of Gabriel went viral after his nearly "perfect 10" ride through the wave.  His purpose in pointing his finger to the heavens was to communicate to onlookers that it was God who made the wave he rode on, and God who gave him the ability to ride it.  And, as such,  it was God who deserved the praise.  Gabriel posted this photo on his Instagram account with a simple caption in Portuguese:  "I can do everything through him (Christ) who strengthens me. ~Philippians 4:13"   

Then there was Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, whose post-race interview was a powerful testament to all the Lord has done in her life.  She spoke with grace and humility, attributing her success entirely to Jesus.  Her brief interview clip is a really great listen if you want to watch HERE! 

These two incredible athletes, and many others at the Paris games, encouraged me greatly as they cast their crowns at the feet of Jesus and, through their actions and words, testified along with all the angels, and saints, and all creation, "Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created" (Revelation 4:11).  "Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!" (Psalm 150:6).

By Katie Miller

For more blog posts by Katie Miller, click HERE

Though the median sales price for the Boise housing market hasn’t changed much since July of last year, other notable shifts have occurred.  In particular, 70 more homes were sold last month compared to the previous one, and year-over-year sales saw an increase of 21.5%! With 807 homes sold in July, this marks the highest number of single-family home sales in a month since June 2022.  The number of pending sales also increased, outpacing July of 2023 by nearly 200 purchase contracts, the majority of which for new construction.  

The rise in both sold homes and pending contracts compared to last year is likely due to two main factors: increased inventory and improved affordability The number of available homes has been rising for 6 months, with this past month marking the highest level of single-family home inventory in 20 months. This means buyers have more options than they've had in almost two years!  Additionally, with home prices not ticking up as quickly and interest rates trending down, purchasing a home feels more affordable for many than it did last year. 

If you're considering buying or selling, or just want more information about the market in your area, we’re here to help. Feel free to reach out—we’d love to discuss the details that matter most to you.

For a quick snapshot of the Boise housing market for July 2024, see below.  

For more market statistics, including those for Canyon, Elmore, & Gem Counties, check out Boise Regional REALTORS® Market Report HERE. 

After we landed on the theme of “Rest, Peace, & Contentment in Christ” for our upcoming women’s retreat in September, I began looking at Bible verses around this topic. There are so many great ones, but the one that keeps rolling around in my mind is John 14:27, where Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” 

This verse emphasizes that there is a difference between the peace found in the world and the peace Jesus offers. The world’s peace is often fragile, dependent on external circumstances, and easily disrupted by conflict or change. The peace that Jesus gives, however, is based on His unchanging love and promises. It is not unsettled by difficult circumstances; in fact, Jesus told us to expect them (John 16:33).  But, rather, the steadfast love, protection, forgiveness, grace, provision, blessing, and eternal life He secured for all who place their trust in Him offers a steady and enduring calm that remains secure, even in the face of trouble.

When Jesus spoke the words of John 14:27 to His followers, He was preparing them for His departure. The disciples didn’t fully understand, but Jesus knew He would suffer, die, rise again, and then ascend to the Father, sending the Holy Spirit to be with us. He foresaw the confusion, fear, and sorrow His disciples would experience at his death, as well as the joy of His resurrection and the power of the coming Spirit.  He knew they would suffer and that some would even die to share His message of salvation with the world; yet, there would be much hope and rejoicing in the midst of it.  Knowing all the ups and downs to come, Jesus assured them of the secure peace they could find in Him—a peace not based on circumstances but on His constant presence with them through the Spirit and the gift of eternal life with Him because of His sacrifice.  

As one prone to seek peace in my present circumstances, I am thankful for the reminder that the world around me and the feelings within me are unstable, and that any peace I try to find in them is easily disrupted. But the peace of God, rooted in the truth of my salvation, the presence of His Spirit within me, and the promise of my eternal future in heaven, is indeed different and unshakeable. My Savior gives peace to me, not as the world gives but oh so much better!  I will lean on Him and let not my heart be troubled, neither will I be afraid.  

By Katie Miller

For more blog posts by Katie Miller, click HERE

The Boise housing market saw some notable changes last month. For the first time since April 2021, the median sales price for existing homes surpassed that of new builds, with resale homes averaging $599,990 compared to $525,557 for new construction. It’s important to note that the average size of the existing homes sold was larger than that of new builds, suggesting that builders are focusing on smaller, more affordable homes, while buyers seeking more square footage are increasingly turning to resale properties over new construction.

Existing home sales dropped 15% from last year, while new home sales increased by 13.4%. This trend is another indicator that builders are focusing on creating more affordable homes to meet the growing demand not satisfied by available resale properties. Although existing home sales declined, pending contracts rose by an average of 20% across the resale and new construction market. Inventory levels have also improved, recovering significantly from the shortages seen between 2020 and 2022. Despite still being short of a balanced market, which requires a 4-6 months supply of inventory (MSI), we inched up to 2.7 MSI last month.

As Elizabeth Hume reminded us in June’s Boise Regional REALTORS® Market Report, overall county data might not reflect the specifics of your neighborhood or the area you’re considering. If you’re thinking about buying or selling, we encourage you to reach out to us. We can provide detailed information tailored to your property or area of interest. We’d love the opportunity to use our expertise in both broad market trends and local nuances to best serve you in this ever-changing market!

For a quick snapshot of the Boise housing market for June 2024, see below.  

For more market statistics, including those for Canyon, Elmore, & Gem Counties, check out Boise Regional REALTORS® Market Report HERE. 

A few weeks ago, our family received the unexpected and difficult news that my dad’s increasing abdominal pain was the result of rapidly progressing pancreatic cancer.  In the wake of his prognosis, we have been wrestling with the sadness of having to say goodbye to a treasured husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, while simultaneously rejoicing in God’s kindness in giving us such a wonderful man, equipping him to make the meaningful impact he has made on the world, and allowing us this precious time to cherish being together.  

This Father’s Day, amidst the realization that this is likely the last I will get to celebrate with him, I have been reflecting much on the gift of my dad’s presence and how his love has imaged God’s love for me. While there are many examples I could share, the most notable has been my dad’s willing self-sacrifice for the benefit of my good.   

From as far back as I can remember, my dad has worked diligently and saved generously—not for selfish gain but to ensure a good life for our family.  He continually gives of his time, treasures, and comfort so we might flourish.  This tangible expression of selfless love mirrors God’s love as described in John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The generosity, security, and goodness I have experienced through my dad’s hard work and selfless acts beautifully reflect the unparalleled kindness, assurance, and eternal hope God offers through His grace and mercy.

This type of self-sacrifice reveals a profound love that seeks the best for the beloved. As I look back on being my father’s daughter, I see countless examples where I was the beneficiary. When it would have been easier, quicker, and less expensive for my dad to go camping or fishing alone, he bought the necessary gear and made it possible for us to join him. When all I wanted was to take a road trip with a few “too-young” teenage friends, he endured my tears and angry words, knowing that protecting my safety and future was more loving than yielding to my fleeting desire for a little fun. When I rushed through chores, didn’t give my best, or was disrespectful, he gave consequences to help me see the negatives of such behaviors and guided me towards something better, shaping me into the woman I am today.   Though not always recognized as loving in the moment, my dad’s actions were deeply rooted in his concern for me and his desire to seek what was best for me. As the Lord declared in Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you…plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future," my dad has been driven by similar hopes to prosper me and not to harm me, to give me a bright future.

Reflecting on the depths of my dad’s love for me has proved a comfort in this difficult time, recognizing that his concern and care for me is merely a glimpse of the concern and care God has for him. While it is incredibly hard to watch my dad endure the pain of his cancer, I trust the Lord to hold him and seek the best for his future, just as my dad has done for me. I’m trusting Him for the present too. In recent months, I have witnessed God’s loving kindness toward my dad—honoring his desires to not grow old and dependent, to avoid prolonged suffering, to spend meaningful time with family and friends, to enjoy activities he loves, to laugh, drink wine, and cherish visits on the patio. He has been given the time to put things in order for our family and to leave this world knowing he has done all he could to set us up well for his parting.  What a gift.

I am not ready to say goodbye to my dad, and I doubt I ever will be. But I am always eager to celebrate him. So, this Father’s Day, I raise a glass (preferably of my dad’s homemade wine) in gratitude—to my dad, whose sacrificial love has shaped my life and provided for our family's future, and to my Father in heaven, whose sacrificial love has secured a joyful and eternal future for all who accept His invitation. I am grateful beyond measure for the gift of my Savior and for the gift of my dad, who has so beautifully mirrored the love of the Father in his life.

By Katie Miller

For more blog posts by Katie Miller, click HERE

The median sales price for the Boise housing market in May was $551,950. Although this marks a slight drop from the previous month, it represents a 3.4% increase from May of last year. Excluding new construction, existing home sale prices saw an even more substantial rise, increasing by nearly 6% year-over-year. The number of homes sold in May also showed significant growth, up 7.3% from the previous month and a remarkable 14.7% from the same period last year. Additionally, the inventory of homes available for sale increased notably, rising 16.9% month-over-month and 29.4% year-over-year. These metrics suggest that the market will likely remain healthy and robust as we move into the second half of 2024.

Given that 30-year mortgage interest rates are currently hovering around 7% with no sign of dropping soon and that home prices are stable with a strong likelihood of increasing, many buyers understand that housing affordability in Boise is unlikely to become more favorable in the near future. This awareness is prompting some to buy in the area now while leading others to seek more affordable options further from the city. Last month, the median sales price for homes in Canyon County, encompassing cities like Nampa, Caldwell, and Middleton, was $419,945. These attractive prices for properties, still within a convenient commute to Boise, have spurred increased demand in these areas. The surge in demand has also led to a significant uptick in new construction, increasing housing inventory in Canyon County by 58.5% over the past year to meet the growing need.  

If you're thinking about buying or selling in the Boise area, or if you're interested in exploring Canyon County or other Treasure Valley regions in the months ahead, please reach out to us. We're eager to talk about how the current market dynamics, such as interest rates and affordability considerations, might influence your choices. We look forward to connecting with you soon!

For a quick snapshot of the Boise housing market for May 2024, see below.  

For more market statistics, including those for Canyon, Elmore, & Gem Counties, check out Boise Regional REALTORS® Market Report HERE. 

As evidenced by the large number of pending TripleCord listings right now,  the Boise housing market has really begun to pick up.  Pending sales have surged by 10% compared to last month and nearly 25% compared to last year. Additionally, the median number of days properties spend on the market has decreased by 24.5% from last month and 32.7% from last year. This indicates a higher rate of home purchases occurring within a shorter timeframe—a trend we haven't seen for a bit.

While some of this increase can be attributed to seasonal patterns, it's also a reflection of changing buyer sentiment. Many prospective buyers have long been hesitant, waiting to see if home prices and interest rates would decrease further. However, recent months have shown that such declines are unlikely. Therefore, more and more buyers are choosing to stop waiting and move forward.  

Sellers are also becoming more active, with the number of homes listed for sale rising by 10.3% from last month and 19.9% from last year. As noted by Boise Regional REALTORS®, “With a spike in pending contracts, home sales, and market speeds, increased inventory is a welcome friend.”  

It’s important to note that while more people are making decisions to jump into the market, it doesn't mean it's the right time for everyone. If you're considering buying or selling, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss the current market conditions with you. We can highlight the advantages of entering the market now, as well as potential drawbacks, to better help you make an informed decision based on your unique circumstances. Please feel free to give us a call – we're here to help!

For a quick snapshot of the Boise housing market for April 2024, see below.  

For more market statistics, including those for Canyon, Elmore, & Gem Counties, check out Boise Regional REALTORS® Market Report HERE. 

Since experiencing the awe-inspiring solar eclipse along the path of totality in 2017, Luke and I have been eagerly awaiting our next viewing.   That opportunity finally came last week when we traveled 7 hours by plane and 3 hours by car to Waco, Texas, in hopes of again seeing this incredible phenomenon.  When we told people of our upcoming trip, many who had never seen a total solar eclipse wondered at our excitement and willingness to travel so far.  I mean, eclipses are cool, but they aren’t THAT cool, right?  And, can’t you just put on your glasses and see a bit of it from here?    Well, if you’re talking about a partial solar eclipse outside the path of totality, I would agree with you.  It’s pretty neat to stare up at the huge cookie bite in the sun through solar glasses and experience the associated temperature drop, interesting shadows, and darkened midday sky.  But, a TOTAL solar eclipse is something far more spectacular and well worth the travel to be able to fully take it in!

Though our plans worked out to travel to the path of totality, we found ourselves powerless against the whims of the weather to guarantee a viewing. The forecast for eclipse day was overcast skies and thunderstorms, casting a shadow of uncertainty on our chances of seeing what we came for.  It may have seemed silly to some, but we prayed a lot and enlisted others to pray as well that God might part the clouds—not just for us but for all those who were gathered to see the grandeur of this event, especially those who would be seeing it for the first time.  

We had the joy of meeting up with some friends who recently moved to Texas as well as another friend who traveled from Boise to watch the eclipse. After scrutinizing the forecasted cloud coverage to find an optimal viewing spot, our friends suggested a location where breaks in the clouds seemed most promising.  As we sat and visited and waited, hope surged with occasional glimpses of blue sky. However, just before totality, a dark cloud veiled the sun.  The collective prayer on all our hearts was, “Please, Lord, move this cloud long enough for us to at least get a glimpse of this incredible display of your glory!”  Though we didn’t see totality hit, we felt the temperature drop and saw the skies get especially dark, signaling it was safe to remove our solar glasses.  Everyone in the park peered longingly where we knew the sun was…hoping. 

Then, just seconds after it had started, the Lord kindly answered our prayers—parting the clouds and giving us full visibility of His incredible power and grand creation. Awe filled us all and an uproar of cheers, whistles, clapping, and whoops erupted from the crowd. Luke hollered out, “Glory!!!”  Indeed, it was glorious—a dark sky in the middle of the day, the ability to stare directly at the sun with the naked eye, a ring of fire, a visible solar flare, the appearance of stars and planets, and a 360-degree sunset!  Even the bats came out, tricked by the illusory night sky.  As the total eclipse of the sun continued for four beautiful minutes, a symphony of sporadic cheers seemed to mingle with silent revelry. Then, it was time for my favorite part—the moment known as the “diamond ring,” when totality ends and a radiant burst of sunlight shoots forth from behind the moon.  In that fleeting moment, I felt like I was getting a very small glimpse of what it must have been like at creation when “God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light. And God saw that the light was good” (Genesis 1:3).  Indeed, it was good.  “The heavens declared the glory of God, and the sky above proclaimed his handiwork” (Psalm 19:1).  We are so very grateful to have had the opportunity to experience it!

Although the next total solar eclipse won’t pass through the contiguous United States until 2044, there are opportunities abroad for those with the wanderlust bug.   One will be marching through Iceland and Spain on August 12, 2026, through parts of the Middle East on August 2, 2027, and through Australia & New Zealand on July 22, 2028.  We are already talking with family and friends about how we could make the trek to one of these locations happen.  If you’re interested, let us know!  We would love a chance to revel in God’s glory on display with you!  

By Katie Miller

For more blog posts by Katie Miller, click HERE

Last month, the Boise housing market witnessed impressive leaps in some key measurements for real estate market competitiveness.  Most notably, the median sales price for existing homes (not including new construction) went up by $56,800 from February to March.  This is an increase of 11.6% in one month and marks the greatest month-over-month price jump in Ada County history.   Though not record-breaking, the overall month-over-month median sales price increase of 6.3% was also notable.  These metrics, along with a month-over-month increase of 12.2% in pending sales and 21.3% in sold homes, indicate that buyer demand remains strong despite sustained higher interest rates and that our market may be poised for a much more active spring than experienced in 2023.

Another contributing factor to the jump in prices last month, particularly in the existing home sector, could be attributed to the "lock-in" effect.  This phenomenon arises from homeowners who purchased their current properties at historically low mortgage rates and are, understandably, hesitant to sell and trade these advantageous loans for new higher-cost mortgages. Consequently, many who might otherwise upgrade their homes are opting to remain in place, thus constraining the inventory of homes for sale, particularly within the entry-level segment. This trend further exacerbates the scarcity of available properties, adding to the competitive nature of the housing market.  

Whether you’re considering buying but are anxious about the process, hoping to sell but are feeling locked in, or simply curious about the current market dynamics and how they may affect your future real estate decisions, we’re here to support you every step of the way!  With our knowledge of the market, expertise in negotiation, and genuine commitment to prioritizing your needs, we're dedicated to helping you navigate your next real estate move with confidence and ease. Don't hesitate to reach out – we're ready to assist you in achieving your goals and making informed decisions for your future.

For a quick snapshot of the Boise housing market for March 2024, see below.  

For more market statistics, including those for Canyon, Elmore, & Gem Counties, check out Boise Regional REALTORS® Market Report HERE. 

After taking a break for a couple of years, I was eager to again participate in The Bible Recap plan to read chronologically through the Bible in a year.  In the first few books of the Bible, God places a heavy emphasis on the importance of Sabbath rest and the weighty consequences of neglecting it.   It reminded me of two vital truths: firstly, the kindness and incredible provision of our God, who ordained rest for us, and secondly, that taking time to rest demonstrates trust in the Lord, not in yourself, to accomplish what needs to be accomplished and to provide what needs to be provided.   

This realization hit home, exposing that my sense of feeling rested stemmed not from trusting in God's provision but from the relief of accomplishing things on my checklist.  As He was beginning to reveal this, the Lord perfectly timed an incredibly restful family vacation to an all-inclusive resort in Puerto Vallarta.  There, I had the opportunity to savor true rest—no cooking, no cleaning, no work, no schedules, no alarms. It was simply a time to unwind, connect, play in the ocean, sit quietly, read, sleep, bask in the beauty around us, spend time with God, and experience a taste of the profound rest He promises we can find in Him.

Amazed and inspired by the experience, I asked God to help me integrate this newfound restfulness into my daily life upon returning home. Thus, on our first Sunday back, I chose to set my checklist aside—trusting the Lord to give me the day of rest He wanted to provide while also Him to enable me to accomplish the necessary tasks in our home and at work during the week. Although initially challenging, it felt liberating not to be enslaved by tasks for a day, and I felt much more rested and at peace than Sundays prior. 

The next morning, however, as I looked at my undone list and the mounting number of emails in my inbox, I started to second guess whether the rest on Sunday had been a good idea.  I had a Mom’s in Prayer gathering I had planned to attend but seriously considered skipping it so I could get started on the work awaiting me.  However, I felt the Lord encouraging me to go.  So, I did.  And, rather than walking away from the meeting feeling further crunched for time, I felt even more at peace about the day.  On the way home, I got a call from one of my agents, and rather than rushing through the conversation to get to those emails, I chose to spend time catching up and praying for one another.  Again, I somehow left the conversation not with greater concern over the pressures of the day but with a greater sense of peacefulness in my soul.  By the time I got up to my computer to begin the workday, it was 11:30 am, allotting only 3 ½ hours to get through everything before the kids arrived home from school.  But, somewhat miraculously, the workday unfolded smoothly and even with limited time, the Lord helped me finish all the necessary tasks. I even had a few extra minutes before the kids walked in the door.

While I understand my Mondays may not always progress so seamlessly after a Sunday of rest, this served as a tangible reminder of God's faithfulness and encouragement to trust in Him. It felt like His little nudge saying, “See, I got you, Katie.  Trust me and don’t hesitate to enter the joy of the rest I have for you.” I pray for continued obedience to this gracious command, anticipating deeper levels of rest and peace in the coming months as I rely on Him.   If you’ve been entering the joy of Sabbath rest for some time, I’d love to hear about your experience.  And, if you’re like me and are just beginning to discover its riches, I’d love to hear how it’s going and to help encourage each other in the journey.  

“So, there is a special rest still waiting for the people of God. For all who have entered into God’s rest have rested from their labors, just as God did after creating the world. So let us do our best to enter that rest so as not to disobey God and to fall as the people of Israel did.”  (Hebrews 4:9-11)

By Katie Miller

For more blog posts by Katie Miller, click HERE