In real estate—and in life—there’s a powerful truth we all need to embrace: what used to work may not work today.My grandmother used to tell me stories of how as a young girl her famliy travelled out West in a covered wagon.  I dare say out society would be ill equiped to make such an arduous journey today. So often I hear agents say I was voted best in real estate, carefully avoidng that it was back in 2015.  You can't live on your laurels of the past.  What you did last year to be successful, doesnt have any bearing on what next year will hold for you.We’re not in the same world we were a few years ago. The real estate industry has shifted beneath our feet, and so has everything around it. This is nothing new it happens constantly.  If you think about it We’re navigating the ripple ef... 05/25/2025

20 Acres • 2 Ponds • Off-Grid Property SOLD FAST with Rain Silverhawk!Thinking of selling? You don’t need months of waiting and stress — just the right agent. This stunning 20-acre off-grid property with two ponds wasn’t an easy sell on paper. Niche property, remote location, off-grid living — the kind of listing that often lingers on the market. But not with Rain Silverhawk of Sandpoint Realty.With smart marketing, drone video, and a deep network of off-grid and land buyers, this property went pending in only 3 days.🌟 No Hassles. No guesswork. Just results.Rain’s proven approach includes:✅ Strategic pricing and buyer targeting✅ National TV exposure✅ Drone and 360° virtual tours✅ Strong buyer network for land, homesteads, and off-grid buyers✅ Decades of real estate experience that gets ... 05/09/2025

Gardening in North Idaho: Thriving in the Panhandle's Unique Growing ConditionsGardening in North Idaho is not for the faint of heart, but for those who embrace its rhythms, the rewards are rich, fragrant, and often delicious. From Bonners Ferry to Sandpoint and stretching down to Coeur d’Alene, our short but vibrant growing season demands a mix of planning, resilience, and a bit of local know-how.Understanding the ClimateNorth Idaho's gardening season is defined by a late frost in spring and an early frost in fall, which means your average growing window runs from mid-May to late September—sometimes shorter in higher elevations or shaded valleys. The USDA Hardiness Zones here range mostly between 4b and 6a, depending on your specific location.What Grows Well in North Idaho?Despite the ... 05/05/2025

🎣 Fish Stocking in the Idaho Panhandle: Where the Trout Are Biting This Month 🐟Ever wonder if the Idaho Department of Fish and Game’s stocking trucks are heading to your favorite fishing hole? We reached out to our hatchery staff to get the scoop on where rainbow trout are making a splash this month across the Panhandle.If you're looking for an easy and fun way to get outside, fishing for stocked rainbow trout is a great option—especially for new or young anglers. These locations are easy to access, family-friendly, and perfect for a relaxing day on the water. All you need to get started is a fishing license—and kids under 14 can fish for free! Need a license? You can buy one instantly on your smartphone and hit the water the same day.Here’s what’s being stocked in the Idaho Panhandle t... 05/02/2025

Check out this great home which backs to a community park and has room to create RV parking.  It has 3 bedrooms with a huge upstairs loft that is designed to be a 4th or 5th bedroom if desired.  Grow into the same house instead of paying to move in a few years!The fence is placed in such a way you just need to add the front and gates and improve the approach to have gated RV parking.The home backs to the community park complete with lots of open space and a tot lot.  No back yard neighbors, just the open space park.Lots of open living space and loft area.  Check out this interactive 3D Virtual Tour.  Please check it out on your way out to go boat or fish at Lake Lowell or wine tasting out in Sunnyslope.  Call me, Jim Paulson, at 208-573-0471 for a personal tour of this home.PS:  It is m... 04/26/2025

Are you thinking about moving to Boise Idaho?  You can get my FREE Boise Relocation Guide here.  Inside you'll find information about interesting recreational activities, annual events, community information, fun facts, and various resources to help you make the most of your stay in the area.  https://www.idahoreloguide.com/randallfilbert2025 04/22/2025

Life Jacket Loaner Stations: Promoting Water Safety in Bonner and Boundary CountiesWith the abundance of lakes, rivers, and creeks in North Idaho, water recreation is a way of life. However, safety should always be a top priority when enjoying these natural waterways. That’s where the life jacket loaner stations in Bonner and Boundary counties come in—a vital initiative aimed at keeping residents and visitors safe on the water.What Are Life Jacket Loaner Stations?The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation boating program and the Sheriffs Department have installed Life jacket loaner stations stocked with free-to-use life jackets. These stations are strategically placed at popular boat launches, beaches, and fishing areas, ensuring that anyone who needs a life jacket has access to one. ... 04/19/2025

This one went pending in 3 days.The perfect homesite with southern exposure and panoramic views. This serene 20-acre parcel features a picturesque meadow,encircled by towering pines, larch, fir, cedar, and birch. Breathtaking views of Scotchman’s Peak and the cabinet mountains. There are two tranquil ponds to enhance the landscape, making it an ideal setting for a self-sufficient lifestyle or a peaceful getaway. Area of great wells, no CCR's and an abundance of wildlife. Surrounded by a 260-acre tree farm and near U.S. Forest Service land, as well as the Clark Fork River and Lake Pend Oreille. This off-grid retreat offers seclusion and direct access to endless outdoor adventure. Whether you envision a homestead, a hunting retreat, or a dream cabin in the woods, this unique property deli... 04/17/2025

In the world of real estate, we’ve always been on the lookout for scams, but lately, there’s been a serious uptick in a specific — and very costly — scheme: land fraud.Our area has been hit especially hard by fraudsters targeting vacant land and absentee owners. Criminals are forging documents, creating fake IDs, and attempting to pose as the rightful landowners to illegally sell properties they don’t own. As a Realtor, I’ve seen this firsthand — and I can tell you, it’s a growing problem that’s affecting both individual property owners and the integrity of our entire market.These scams often start with out-of-state or vacant land parcels, where there are no homes or active occupants. Scammers identify properties through public records, assume the identity of the owner using fake IDs, a... 04/17/2025

How to Virtually Stage a Home (Without Breaking a Sweat)By Rain Silverhawk — Sandpoint Realty | Experience the DifferenceOne of the easiest ways to help buyers emotionally connect with a home—and help sellers stand out in a competitive market—is virtual staging. It’s fast, affordable, and you don’t have to move a single piece of furniture. Here’s a simple guide real estate agents can follow:🛋️ What is Virtual Staging?Virtual staging is the process of digitally adding furniture, décor, and style to a photo of a vacant room. It helps buyers visualize the space as a real home, instead of a blank slate.🎯 Why Use It? Saves money: No need to rent or move furniture. Highlights potential: Buyers can imagine living in the space. Boosts marketing: Makes your MLS listings and social media pop. Qui... 04/08/2025

 If you ever watched the classic TV series Northern Exposure, you might remember the opening scene—a lone moose casually wandering through the fictional town of Cicely, Alaska, as if it owned the place. It was a charming reminder that, in certain parts of the world, wildlife doesn’t just stay in the woods—it strolls right into town.Here in Sandpoint, Idaho, we have our own version of that scene playing out in real life. Moose are a regular part of the landscape, often making their way through neighborhoods, stopping to rest in a backyard, or even taking a dip in an unsuspecting homeowner’s kiddie pool. They have no problem hopping fences to reach the next tasty treat and will "yard up" in residential areas , finding a quiet spot to rest or a tree to nibble.Today I recieved a Nixle alert... 03/09/2025

Think about someone you deeply admire—a friend, a family member, a mentor, or a colleague who inspires you. Take a moment to write their name down.Now, list five things you admire most about them. What qualities make them stand out?When you look over your list you will find that the traits we admire most in others are rooted in their attitude. We’re naturally drawn to people who are optimistic, determined, and full of hope. They lift us up, energize us, and make us believe in what’s possible.In contrast, a negative attitude holds people back. Even those with immense talent or ambition can find success elusive when they have a poor attitude. If they achieve outward success, it’s often hollow—neither they nor those around them truly enjoy the journey.Now think about someone with modest ab... 02/23/2025

North Idaho: A Water-Rich ParadiseNorth Idaho is a land of breathtaking beauty, defined by its abundant water resources. From rushing creeks cascading down forested slopes to meandering rivers carving their way through picturesque valleys.A Landscape Shaped by WaterWater is the lifeblood of North Idaho, shaping its landscape and sustaining its diverse ecosystems. Pristine springs bubble up from the earth, feeding crystal-clear ponds. The area is also dotted with countless natural and man-made lakes, making it one of the most water-rich regions in the Pacific Northwest.Rivers and Creeks: The Arteries of the RegionThe rivers of North Idaho are as diverse as the terrain they flow through. The Clark Fork River winds its way through lush valleys before emptying into Lake Pend Oreille, the la... 02/21/2025

Boundary County: A Land of Lakes and Natural AbundanceNestled in the far north of Idaho, Boundary County is a paradise of unspoiled nature, teeming with abundant water sources. This breathtaking region is home to an astonishing 62 lakes, each offering its own unique charm and natural beauty.A Wealth of WaterWith its vast number of lakes, Boundary County boasts a landscape that is both diverse and awe-inspiring. From large, pristine bodies of water to hidden alpine gems, these lakes provide habitats for a wide array of wildlife, including fish, birds, and other native species. Amazingly you often find yourself enjoying these wonders with very few people around to interrupt your solitude.  For outdoor enthusiasts, the lakes of Boundary County offer an endless array of recreational activit... 02/20/2025

Bonners Ferry, Idaho: A Hidden Gem in the Kootenai ValleyNestled in the breathtaking Kootenai Valley, Bonners Ferry, Idaho, is a charming small town surrounded by majestic mountains, lush forests, and the tranquil waters of the Kootenai River. Known as the “Friendliest Town in Idaho,” this peaceful and welcoming community offers the perfect blend of rural serenity and modern convenience.Looking for a home to buy in Bonners Ferry, see the homes for sale here.Why You’ll Love Living in Bonners Ferry:🌲 Scenic Beauty & Outdoor Adventure – Whether you love hiking, fishing, hunting, or simply soaking in nature, Bonners Ferry offers endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. The nearby Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains provide stunning backdrops for year-round recreation, including skiing... 02/19/2025

The real estate industry is full of highs and lows. Markets crash, deals fall through, clients walk away, and challenges arise when you least expect them. But those who persevere through hardships are often the ones who come out stronger, wiser, and more successful. C.S. Lewis’s words—"Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny."—ring especially true in real estate.Overcoming Challenges: My Own JourneyI’ve seen firsthand how adversity creates opportunity. In the 1980s, I was new to realestate.  Interest rates were sky-high, many buyers struggled to secure financing. Rather than letting the market dictate my success, I focused on wrap-around loans, a creative financing strategy that helped buyers and sellers make deals work. That challenge taught me the power of... 02/11/2025

If You Cut Corners, You’ll One Day Cut Yourself ShortIn life and business, cutting corners might seem like a quick way to save time or money. Whether it’s rushing through a project, skipping steps, or opting for cheaper alternatives, it can feel like you're getting ahead. But the truth is, shortcuts often lead to setbacks.I was raised in a time when "Built to Last," "Old-Fashioned Customer Service," and "Pride in Work" were not just slogans but true measuring sticks for success and integrity. These values defined how businesses operated and how individuals approached their craft. It wasn’t just about getting the job done; it was about doing it right, no matter how long it took. A handshake was as binding as a contract, and word-of-mouth recommendations were earned through trust and qual... 01/26/2025

"We must all suffer from one of two pains: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. The difference is discipline weighs ounces while regret weighs tons." – Jim RohnSelf-discipline is the foundation of greatness. It’s the quiet strength that empowers us to trade fleeting comforts for lasting triumphs. It asks us to choose purpose over distraction, resilience over ease, and the promise of a better tomorrow over the allure of immediate gratification.With self-discipline, we forge resilience and cultivate perseverance. It enables us to face setbacks with courage, transform obstacles into stepping stones, and keep our eyes fixed firmly on our aspirations.Beyond action, self-discipline deepens self-awareness and mastery. It helps us understand the patterns of thought and behavior that ho... 01/20/2025

Celebrating My  Clients: A Look Back at 2024With the year at a close, and 2025 surging ahead quickly. I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible real estate journeys we’ve shared throughout 2024. Each transaction was not just a business deal but a milestone in the lives of my amazing clients. It has been a privilege to walk alongside you, working, dreaming, and striving to make your real estate goals a reality.Gratitude for Your TrustEvery client’s trust in me to handle such a significant chapter of their life is a gift I treasure deeply. Real estate isn’t just about buying or selling property—it’s about homes, dreams, and futures. To my clients, thank you for placing your confidence in me to guide you through this process. Whether we were navigating a complex sale, securing y... 01/19/2025

Here is a quick recap of homes and properties I listed and sold recently.  Congratulations to both buyers and sellers, it was my pleasure to serve you.SOLD By Rain Silverhawk 58114 Highway 200 Clark Fork ID 83811Beautiful Log home and barn on 10.17 acres, 30 GPM well, river access and amazing views overlooking the Clark Fork Valley and Bitterroot Mountains. This immaculate single level 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath rancher boasts an enchanting river rock floor-to-ceiling hearth, slated entry, warm wood floors, office space and a spacious kitchen with abundant cabinets and a breakfast bar. -----------------------------------------------SOLD By Rain Silverhawk 137 Larkspur Lane, Bonners Ferry ID 83805Welcome to your dream home! This spacious 4290 sq ft 4-bedroom 3 bath home plus a basement den offi... 01/19/2025