March is National Reading Month, so it's time to crack open your new favorite book! Many of our real estate agents are avid readers who are always on the hunt for an intriguing new read. Here are a few of their favorite spots to get new and used books around Spokane.

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FEBRUARY 2023 Market Report

Explore the latest trends for the Kootenai County residential real estate market in our comprehensive monthly report.

FEBRUARY 2023 Market Report

Explore the latest trends for the Spokane County residential real estate market in our comprehensive monthly report.

No movie, TV show, or music recording can compare to the electric thrill of watching a live performance. Thankfully, Spokane's performing arts industry always has a new show waiting in the wings. Here are just a few of the shows that our real estate agents are most excited to see coming up this March.

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Savvy Ways to Increase Your Home's Value

GUSTAVO GONZALEZ, Coldwell Banker Real Estate, LLC

Whether you plan to be in your home for just a few more months or many more years, there are plenty of efficient ways to maximize your space and increase its value. This type of investment needn't require a loan, nor does it have to span any great length of time. From green living to greenery in your yard, here are a few impactful and straightforward means of boosting your home's value and appeal over the short or long term.

A Smart Move
Green is the new black. Any form of energy efficiencies and conservation in your home will inevitably be a fiscal gain. Whether you install energy-saving window treatments or solar panels, both options can reduce utility expenses for you and any future inhabitants. When it comes time to replace appliances, a prudent decision would be to select a "smart" model of said item, which can significantly lower long-term energy costs.

While on the topic of efficiency, a wise investment would be installing "smart" devices throughout your property. Think digital features such as automated blinds or shades, security cameras, door locks, security lighting and thermostats. When you're ready to sell, the smart tech will appeal to buyers with a penchant for the added value of convenience and connectivity.

Wide Open Spaces
Create visual space in rooms by keeping them clutter-free and organized, which can be solved by simply installing a stylish shelving unit to keep extraneous items out of sight. Seek the help of a professional organizer who will be bursting with innovative ideas to optimize the storage areas in your dwelling.

Another way to increase square footage without a renovation is to let the sunshine in! Avoid heavy drapes and instead, use modern window treatments that add height such as roller, Roman or cellular shades. Similarly, you can position a decorative floor-to-ceiling mirror in any room to visually double your space.

From the Bottom Up
Explore the possibility of replacing the flooring in a few key spaces. A unique, beautiful, and buzzworthy material is cork, which is also known to have antibacterial properties. If you opt for new surfaces under your feet, consider installing radiant heating simultaneously. These systems not only add optimum comfort but are also aesthetically pleasing and energy efficient.

Make an impact through your lighting choices. Utilize contemporary or dramatic fixtures to complement each room. Whether you choose minimal or eye-catching designs – the right piece in the optimal locale can add intrigue and substance to your residence.

Kick It Up a Notch
Significant updates to your kitchen and bathroom are sure to boost value. Modern appliances and updated décor increase appeal to buyers, so consider a new backsplash or that roomy farmhouse-style sink you've been eyeing. Think one step further and install a water filtration system to add practicality and luxury to your dwelling. Additional elements like stylish sconces, a new vanity or a vintage mirror can elevate functionality and increase allure.

It's Only Natural
Consider your front and back yard. If there is an area that would benefit from some striking landscaping or creative plantings, explore your options, or consult with a professional landscape architect or designer. Executed well, a garden or other natural elements in your yard can become lovely extensions of your home's indoor atmosphere.

When you look around, there are many ways to enhance the comfort and appeal of your property that will serve you well as a resident – and add value one day when you're ready to sell.

Gustavo Gonzalez is the Senior Manager, Content & Multimedia at Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. In his role he manages content strategy and execution across several platforms. He's held other roles within the Marketing Department ranging from Previews & Product Development to the day-to-day management of the coldwellbanker.com redesign. Besides being a marketer, Gustavo is a filmmaker, musician, and writer.

Looking for the perfect spot for a romantic night out? Our real estate agents are here to offer up some options. Spokane has a truly next-level food scene, with just about every type of cuisine you can imagine, but our local restaurants are especially known for Northwestern fare made with local, seasonal ingredients.

Of course, you need more than quality food for a memorable date night. You also need just the right atmosphere. The places listed here have everything you need: outstanding food and a romantic ambiance. 

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Show Your Love with Sugar Cookies

Be a hero this Valentine's Day by making some incredible sugar cookies from a family recipe shared by Kristina Case, a designer on our marketing team. Whether you want something for your sweetheart, your entire family, or your child's class at school, these will hit the mark.

An important thing to remember before you start: let the butter soften to room temperature. This is key. Don't try to soften it in the microwave or use it fresh out of the fridge.

Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

1 c. butter softened
1 c. sugar
1 egg
2 ½ c flour
2 TBL orange juice
1 TBL vanilla
1 tsp baking powder

Beat sugar and butter until fluffy, add egg and vanilla. Add dry ingredients and orange juice.  Beat well until mixed. Put dough in saran wrap and refrigerate at least 2 hours.  On floured surface, roll out dough to between ¼"-½" and cut into shapes. Bake at 400 degrees for 6-10 minutes.  Makes 2 dozen.

Perfect Buttercream Frosting

4 c powdered sugar
½ c butter, softened
3-4 TBL milk
1 tsp vanilla

Combine and beat until fluffy. Works great in a decorator's bag for piping.

JANUARY 2023 Market Report

Explore the latest trends for the Spokane County residential real estate market in our comprehensive monthly report.