We love supporting local small business here in the Treasure Valley. Part of how we do that is by helping home owners connect with top shelf service providers for all their home needs. But did you know we also have a number of great business-to-business providers as well? It’s true! Several of our members are ready, willing, and able to provide your business or organization with great services also.

We’d like to take this post to highlight one of our BBG members who not only is a great resource for companies who need promotional items but who also can help you share a memory, help get the word out about a fundraiser, or even just create a smile! Create A Photo Button is the brainchild of Jerry Musick – a great guy with a passion for humor and wit who has put his talents to good use by providing the best buttons and magnets available in Idaho — maybe even the world!!

He started his vision back in 1981 and has years of experience in creating wonderful graphics perfect for your button brigade! Whether you need one button or a thousand buttons he can get your order filled with quality as priority number one! You like magnets? He’s got magnets! Some of the most solid, strongest magnets we’ve ever seen!! Perfect to give to friends or customers as a way to make it easy to get in touch or keep them smiling!

We encourage you to connect with Jerry to see what he’s all about and check out the great buttons and magnets he has to offer! You can visit his website here to get started, or check him out on facebook as well!

YES! Spring at last! The snow bunnies are tucking their sticks away for next season, the grass is turning green and the temperature’s are getting us ready to complain about how hot it will be in July! Idaho in Spring time is truly a place of beauty; everyone in the valley is just itching to get outside – even if it’s just to take care of the yard work!

While chances are good that you already have a growing list of things to check off of your honey-do list there are a top things to take care of first that will help your home take better care of itself all season. These high-priority tasks may not seem glamorous – no gold plated chandeliers in this episode – but they will help you save energy, money, and maintain the value of your home.

Stop the Drafts!
Home experts will recommend insulating your home and sealing windows in preparation for Winter, but fact is making sure your home is properly insulated helps keep it cool in the longer Summer months ahead too! Make sure all your windows have a good seal and that your attic is properly insulated as well. While these sorts of things can be easy to do yourself – just a little insulation, weather stripping or caulking in the right places – you may not even know where to start figuring out where to start. If you’re stuck with any kind of heating or cooling problem in Boise, give Airpro a call!

Update Your Appliances
This one may run a little deeper into the pocket book if you go for full replacement, but switching to newer, more energy efficient appliances can not only save you money but it’s also generally better for the environment too! Hot water heaters, refrigerators, dish washers, clothes washers — these are all good items to take a look at. And with today’s economy it might not be time to upgrade, or even be feasible right now. As a consideration think about having your current appliances services or repaired. Repairing your appliances or making sure they are in their best working order can in many times be just as good as an upgrade at a fraction of the cost! Talk to Home Appliance Service for more information and options about how they can help!

Gut the Gutters!
Water damage is often one of the most expensive repairs for your home. While the snow is melted we will likely still see a good bit of rain this Spring; one of the areas of concern for leaks can be your gutters. A few sticks and leaves in the gutter may not seem like a big worry, but your home’s gutters are the first line of defense when it comes to taking the water from the sky and channeling it away from your home. All Valley Window Cleaning not only provides great window cleaning services in Idaho but also can help you get those gutters taken care of as well!

A last good general tip is to just take a walk around your home, look for any early warning signs of future issues like cracks in the concrete, mold or mildew, standing water, or any other indicators that there could be a problem now or in the near future! A little time spent doing regular inspections throughout the year can help you stay on top of things before they become a problem.

Idaho ranked 20th Best Business Tax Environment in the US for 2012.  While not in the ‘top ten’ that is a significant improvement over previous years.  I predicted that over the next several years, States that are more fiscally responsible and more tax friendly will start to see more development and migration.   I believe Boise will start feeling that benefit this year as we have already seen the commercial growth to encompass that trend.

Available housing inventory is very low currently as new development has been lagging, which may drive prices up short term on existing homes in some markets . An average market will have up to six months of inventory, we are less than three.  Eventually new housing developments will start to come available and will ease the current situation. Over the remaining part of 2013 however we will continue to see a lower level of available inventory.  Within 18 months the problem should adjust as more new developments come out of planning to fruition and some home owners, who previously were just a little under water, will now be able to list and sell.  We are experiencing that currently.

I anticipate rural land values to start a recovery in 2013.  Whether it will it be as sharp as the housing value correction of 2012 remains to be seen, more than likely it will be a slower but hopefully steady pace.

Get To Know New View RE!

2013 rang in bright and cold here in the Treasure Valley and we here at the Boise Builders Group are excited at the prospects of an exciting new year!

You know, nearly half of us make a New Year’s resolution each year, and sadly about 75% of those resolutions are likely to fall flat before Spring thaw. But it doesn’t have to be that way! We’ve put together a few tips to help you increase the odds of great success in the coming year! Do these simple things to power boost all your other resolutions!

Sweat a Little
No, not by worrying, by being more active! Studies have shown that more physical activity can help relieve stress and also has countless cardiovascular benefits! An easy way to get in a little extra exercise is to do just a few squats, push-ups, or even a little yoga during commercial breaks while watching tv.

Reject the Negative
This goes for yourself and your business: don’t hold on to things that aren’t doing you any good – or that are even actually doing you harm. When negativity comes your way acknowledge it, look at the opposite and positive alternative, and move past the problem with a solution.

Make Time
Look at your schedule. Don’t have one? Maybe that should be a start. By better arranging your day to flow more efficiently to the way you work, or to the particular needs of your industry you may be surprised to find more time available for the things that make the day really worth while. When you find that time enjoy it to it’s fullest – don’t have that time? Make it!

Don’t Open Your Emails
Well, not first thing anyhow. Studies have shown that the top successful people in the world do not answer emails first thing when they get in. Instead, start your day by making a list of everything you need to do first. Next, take the smallest fastest task to accomplish and make it and at least one other larger task your focus for the day. By having your day laid out you can not only better see what needs to be done but can also in most cases tick a lot more tasks off the list.

One of the biggest services we provide our members and community is by sharing these types of encouraging tips and ideas – we hope you find them useful and enjoy visiting our website! Want even more great Boise area event news and homeowner help? Visit us on Facebook!

After a number of health concerns some areas of the nation are starting to force the use of backflow devices on homes. Cases of local people getting extremely sick from the water in their homes and high pathogen counts in water systems is never good for anyone.

State Program Status: A list of the areas that are on board with protecting our Drinking water.

Protecting the Health and Safety of the Boise Community is what our Boise Plumbers do every day. Also Public awareness for our valued Boise citizens is the priority that all Plumbers in Boise take serious. No matter what your plumbing needs may be call 2 Thumbs Up Plumbing & Remodeling today for the best plumbing services in the Treasure Valley!

From Joe:
Your feedback is very important to us! Please go to this link YP.com or Angies List , Bing Boise 2 Thumbs Up Plumbers and Remodelers …..you can look at our past client reviews as well.

You can have the utmost assurance in Randy Funk Home Inspections. We are backed with full-coverage insurance including E&O, general liability and we are also bonded.

Why have a home inspection?
Investments in Knowledge Pay Dividends!
A professional home inspection is such a valuable investment. An analysis of the property, conducted by a specially trained and completely objective home inspector, can identify non-functioning systems, damaged building components, safety issues and quality installations. Having this information before you purchase, sell, repair or remodel can return many dividends, both financially and emotionally.

How to Choose a Home Inspector?
Qualified inspectors are confident in the quality and value of an inspection. They’re eager to answer any questions to demonstrate the depth and importance of an inspection. Since inspectors in Idaho are not required to have a state license, it is critical to ascertain & verify their background.

How many inspections have you completed?
What types of insurance do you carry? Are you bonded? Home inspectors must carry liability insurance. It is one of the major costs for a home inspector, request proof of coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions about Inspections and Home Inspectors

Q: What is covered in an inspection?
A: Generally, home inspections include the evaluation of the outside area, roof, structural, electrical, plumbing, fireplace, & HVAC. This usually includes inspecting the crawlspace, attic, walking the roof and removal of any electrical panels. For more information, please visit Inspections.

Q: When buying real estate, am I required to have a home inspection?
A: No, a buyer can decide not to have a home inspection, but a quality home inspection provides assurance from a independent 3rd party. Everyone involved benefits from a home inspection. Even new homes, condos and condo-conversions benefit.

Q: When to order or who orders a home inspection?
A: Most home inspections are requested and paid for by the buyer during escrow and time is usually of the essence. It is important to have an inspection completed and reviewed by the buyer and buyer’s agent in a timely manner to determine if any requests for repairs need to be submitted to the seller. The report may recommend a further evaluation by a specialist in determining a remedy.

Many times new sellers will request a home inspection to be done prior to listing their dwelling. This has numerous benefits: it allows ample time to remedy the affordable repairs and decreases any liability exposure by supplementing the Transfer Disclosure Statement. It also minimizes the chances of “discoveries” as a result of any buyers inspection during escrow.

If you are looking for an exceptional home inspector here in the Treasure Valley call Randy Funk Home Inspections today! We have the technology, the quality, and skill you need to be assured that your home is inspected properly.

Randy Funk Home Inspections 208-914-5793

The Boise Builders group strives to continually grow and provide you the local homeowner with the most exceptional service providers available in the area. One way we do that is to nurture business relationships with great companies here in the Treasure Valley who have a reputation for outstanding service! This month we want to introduce you to some of our newest members. Don’t hesitate to call on these professionals in your moment of need!

Boise Beauty and Skin Care
DermaViv Skincare Studio, LLC
Call 208-954-6433
Visit www.DermaViv.com

Dermaviv is your source for exceptional whole body wellness. Did you know your skin is the largest organ in the human body? Isn’t it true then that you should take as good a care of it as possible? Dermaviv is a Board Certified Esthetician, and Massage Therapist with an emphasis on innovative, effective skin care and body treatments.  Schedule a little “me time” with them today!

Boise Water Purification
Idaho Water Solutions
Call: 208-475-4046
Visit www.IdahoWaterSolutions.com

Idaho Water Solutions is your Idaho owned, factory direct water softener, water filtration and water purification systems dealer serving the greater Treasure Valley Idaho! They have a real passion for delivering quality service and water solutions!

Boise Dent Repair
DENT-B-GONE
208-869-8000

Dent-B-Gone in Boise specializes in expert paintless dent repair! Owner Tom Cassidy has proudly served Idaho for over a decade; knows how to handle any ding or dent easily! Fully mobile dent repair services, just give a call and Dent-B-Gone will be on the scene with a solution in no time!

A new index to rate housing’s strength in regions across the country has been developed by market analyst Corelogic. This new scale incorporates real estate, economic, and mortgage factors to determine the strengths and weaknesses of each market.

Even with advanced calculating the real estate data giant admits that factors like continued high unemployement rates, negative equity, and turbulent governmental conditions have made it difficult to get completely accurate figures. Despite those things however the data clearly shows that overall home prices are stablizing and even rising in some areas.

It is not surprising to see major cities like San Jose and Las Vegas listed in the ranks of the quickest recovering cities, which are ranked according to their year-to-year performances, but our very own shining jewel Boise, Idaho has been the industry secret to surprise everyone but the locals. Ranked #1 the City of Tree’s can thank it’s stellar score to a decline in unemployment and a rise in home prices.

Experts will argue whether this seeming recovery in the real estate sector will have any real staying power, as previous attempts to rally fell flat, but Chief Economist Mark Fleming pointed out that a thinning of the available inventory and fewer foreclosures burdening the market shows real promise.

“Today’s new housing market really might be different this time around,” he said, recently. With any hope he will be right and Idaho can help lead the way!

Are you uncertain if now is a the time to buy a home? Maybe you wonder if renting might be more affordable, or just don’t know where to start looking? Whatever your situation, Paul Heim and his team of experience Idaho REALTORS® at the New View Real Estate Team would love the opportunity to talk with you about your particular ideas. Contact Paul today to start finding the home you want!

Believe it or not the last week of Summer is upon us here in Boise! It seems like it was just last week that we were wondering if the sweltering heat would ever see an end; yet here we are already getting the coats out of the closet and thinking about starting the Christmas shopping.

Even though it’s not quite the end of Summer just yet, it’s still a good time to start taking care of seasonal home maintenance items before they get the jump on you!

Here are some good tips to help you keep your household in great shape for the change of seasons ahead!

Check for Drafts
Feel for drafty windows and doors. You can use a lighted candle near entry points to your home to detect where you might be experiencing air leaks. Keeping the heat in your home over the winter can save you big bucks. Talk to our Boise HVAC Pro if you need help!

Roof Check!
Here’s one place you do NOT want to have to deal with mid-winter! If you are able to do so safely, now is the time to at least give your roof the quick once over to check for loose shingles or leaks. Need a roofer in Boise? Talk to our Roofing Pro!

Clean the Gutters
Keeping the gutters clear of debris can really help make things run a lot smoother, especially as we have the more wet Fall months ahead of us. A good once over should do the trick, but if your gutters are hard to reach or just too much to take on All Valley Window Cleaning can help you take care of them – or you can give our Boise Handyman a call also!

Faucets,Hoses,Water
Winter will be a terrible time for leaks or burst pipes! Get ahead of those items by inspecting your water systems. This includes blowing out sprinklers, storing hoses, and making sure outside faucets are weather ready. Our Boise Plumbing Expert can help you with any of your plumbing questions or needs.

Chim-chim-cheree!
Chimney sweeps aren’t something just out of Mary Poppins – and if you’ve ever experienced a clogged or dirty chimney you know they are no children’s faerie tale! A filthy chimney is not only inefficient but it can be a real hazard! Keep your house warm and safe – talk to our Chimney Sweeping Pro!

No matter how long your list of honey-do’s and get-ready items may be the Boise Builders Group can help you get those things marked off your list! Get your home ready for the Winter now so you can enjoy these fast fleeting months of Fall in Boise while they last!

Want to stay up on all the fun events and festivals in Boise this Fall? The best way to do that is to LIKE our Fan Page on Facebook! We’ve always got great local information and home tips!

What an amazing Summer we’ve been having in Boise this year! Despite the horrible wildfires and constant haze in the sky overall we’ve felt genuinely blessed to be able to live in such a beautiful and diverse state! July and August are always busy busy months, what with the Western Idaho State Fair and so many other great events and festivals going on it’s hard to keep track of them all.

That said, with Summer rapidly coming to a close ( can you believe it’s already almost September?! ) it won’t be long before it’s time to begin getting your home ready for the long – hopefully snowy! – Idaho winter ahead.  We hope you will keep the Boise Builders Group in mind when the time comes to get things checked off your list this Fall – ALL of our great Idaho home services are at your beck and call!

This month we are excited to welcome two great new Boise Builders Group affiliates to our list of exceptional service providers for Idaho. In a very short time both have really proven themselves to be members of outstanding quality!

Titan Restoration
Visit Their Website
Find Them on Facebook
208-867-5828

Specializing in flood and water damage restoration, Titan Restoration is your trusted source for extraordinary water damage repair and mold remediation services. Whether your home is damaged by flood, or gets damaged by water from leaky pipes or other problems Titan Restoration is here for you. Offering the most complete and thorough restoration available – guaranteed!

Boise City Handyman
208-570-0669
Visit Their Website
Visit Them on Facebook

Chuck Lichtenhan of Boise City Handyman has a passion to serve. His dedication to his customers and to his community have made him a fast rising star on the local home services scene. We here at the BBG have been thoroughly impressed with his can-do attitude and positive mindset even when faced with immense challenges.

Boise City Handyman specializes in Drywall, Painting, Carpet Repair,  and a myriad of other  services to help get your home working right and help keep it working right! More than just a handyman for residential customers, Boise City Handyman is also proud to work with many Boise area property management companies as well. Call them to tame your to-do list today!

As always, stay tuned to this website and visit us on Facebook for even more great home tips and Boise news!