Maybe it's a distant memory from over one hundred years ago when pioneers recognized the convenience of following the trails created by animals to indeed go through parts of the West and eventually establish their homestead, along the very trail that brought them to the place they call home. Today we are seeing the value of being on or near the trail system resulting in a healthier population, higher property values, and a super fun way to experience the landscapes and beautiful environments the area offers at every turn in the trail!  These trails have inspired many events that the community supports and enjoys as both active or passive participants. 

Whether you have a cabin,home or land with the trail system passing by or through the property it translates as a benefit. It makes it so inviting and convenient to step out your door and onto the trail for both mind and body benefits. Easy access at the many established maintained trail heads make it a pleasure to experience a low impact way to workout and alleviate the conventional congestion of the roads. I invite you to explore a trail that is near you soon! And by all means if you come to the Methow Valley, make the trail a priority on your list of things to do... Happy Trails!

Outstanding creativity

The highest point of interior is at 6 feet 3 inches and approximately 8 feet in diameter.  A small fire pit was made in the center of this Igloo to  accommodate marshmallow roasting. A good time was had by all.

After being invited to come and see this inspired frozen structure it made me think of all the various structures that people have made throughout history for their home place. In todays world of home building we have building technology that make for comfortable energy efficient living.  

The imagination combined with 21st century tools and materials can have marvelous results for your building projects.The Lost River Cabin that now has a guest accommodation in form of an igloo (!) is a super well insulated cabin that has many warm and well crafted features for a great getaway in the upper methow valley.

An energy efficient home uses less energy in the  winter months by using adequate insulation in walls and attics. Weatherize your home or cabin by applying weather stripping and caulk to plug air leaks around doors and windows. Ask your utility company for a home energy audit to find out if it is poorly insulated or energy inefficient. This service is often provided free or at a low cost. Another easy way to use less energy for heating or cooling is to install a programmable thermostat.

Home prices are one factor in determining your cost of ownership, but so are interest rates and financing availability. Even though interest rates have gone up in the last six months, they are still near historic lows. Since your monthly mortgage payment is a combination of paying down your principal and paying the interest owed, if home prices come down a little further but interest rates up, it could cost you even more to service a mortgage on an identical home!

While a home is a major investment, it is also the center of your personal life. It's important to live in a home that reflects your taste and values, yet is within your financial "comfort zone." To that end, it may be more important to lock in today's relatively low interest rates and low home prices, rather than to hope for a further break in prices in the future.

Please give me a call if I can be of any assistance in determining how much home you can afford in today's market.