Why North Idaho Waterfront Is One of America’s Best-Kept Real Estate SecretsWhen people think about waterfront living, their minds usually jump to Florida, California, or the Pacific Northwest coast. They imagine palm trees, crowded beaches, high taxes, and million-dollar price tags.But there is a different kind of waterfront in America — one that offers breathtaking beauty, privacy, and lifestyle without the chaos.It’s right here in North Idaho.After nearly four decades of selling real estate in this region, I’ve watched thousands of buyers discover what locals have always known: North Idaho has some of the most spectacular and livable waterfront property in the country — and it remains quietly undervalued compared to coastal markets.Lake Pend Oreille — Big Water, Big BeautyLake Pend O... 02/08/2026

A Moment of GratitudeToday feels like a good day to pause and acknowledge something we don’t talk about often enough:relative ease.Not because life is perfect.Not because there haven’t been hard seasons.But because right now, many things are working.There is food in the fridge.A roof overhead.Work that is meaningful.People I love.Problems that are solvable instead of overwhelming.That, in itself, is worth noticing.Success doesn’t always arrive with fireworks or headlines. Often, it shows up quietly—through steady clients, trusted relationships, consistency, and the ability to meet challenges without panic. It looks like experience earned, lessons learned, and knowing when to push and when to rest.There was a time when everything felt harder. When uncertainty was louder. When success fel... 01/31/2026

First-Time Home Buyer? You've Got This!Here Are the Steps to Get You Home With ConfidenceBuying your first home is exciting — and a little overwhelming. There’s a lot of advice out there, and not all of it is clear or accurate. The good news? When you take things step by step and work with the right professionals, the process becomes far more manageable (and even enjoyable).Here’s a straightforward roadmap to help first-time home buyers understand what to expect and how to prepare.Step 1: Clarify Your Goals and BudgetBefore browsing homes online, take time to think about: Where you want to live How long you plan to stay Your lifestyle needs (commute, land, schools, privacy, recreation) At the same time, review your finances honestly. Your comfort level matters just as much as what a len... 01/27/2026

The Two Days We Never Need to Worry AboutThere are two days in every week that don’t deserve a single ounce of our worry. Two days that should be kept free from fear, stress, or anxious thought.The first day is yesterday.Yesterday came and went with its share of mistakes and triumphs, its joys and its regrets. Maybe there were words spoken that we wish we could take back. Maybe there were choices we’d rewrite if we had the chance. But the truth is, yesterday has passed completely beyond our control. No amount of money, energy, or heartache can bring it back for editing.We can learn from it. We can grow from it.But we cannot relive it.So we gently set yesterday down.The second day we should not worry about is tomorrow.Tomorrow carries with it unknowns — challenges that may or may not com... 01/17/2026

When I asked a client today how they found me they said that google brought me up with a glowing accolades.  So I went to google and asked "Who is Rain Silverhawk" and this is what came up. Rain Silverhawk is a highly regarded, experienced real estate broker in Sandpoint, Idaho, known for her deep local market knowledge, particularly with luxury, waterfront and unique and rural properties, specializing in helping clients with off-grid living, wells, and septic systems, and is considered a top local expert who focuses on building long-term relationships and community trust, as evidenced by extensive client testimonials and her active presence on platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, LinkedIn, and her own blog/website, Sandpoint Realty LLC, and ActiveRain. Key Aspects of Rain Silverhawk's E... 01/14/2026

New Year, New Home Goals: How to Prepare for a Move in 2026A brand-new year often inspires fresh beginnings — and for many people, that means dreaming about a new place to call home. Whether you’re planning to move across town or across the country, January is the perfect time to start preparing so your transition later in the year feels smooth, organized, and stress-free.If a move may be in your future for 2026, here are some practical steps you can begin right now.🏡 1. Get Clear on Your “Why” Before you pack a single box, take time to think through why you want to move:✔ More space?✔ Downsizing?✔ Lifestyle change?✔ Closer to family?✔ Lower maintenance?✔ A dream location?Your “why” will help you — and your Realtor — stay focused on homes that truly fit your life rather than just your b... 01/02/2026

Build Your Dream Home at The Idaho Club — A Rare Opportunity on White Cloud DriveIf you’ve ever imagined building your dream home in one of North Idaho’s most stunning and desirable communities, this beautiful .36-acre parcel on White Cloud Drive may be exactly what you’ve been waiting for.Nestled inside the gated community of The Idaho Club near Sandpoint, Idaho, this property offers the perfect balance of natural beauty, recreation, privacy, and lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking a full-time residence, vacation retreat, or investment property — this location delivers something truly special.🌲 A Setting Surrounded by North Idaho BeautyFrom the moment you enter the community through the iconic timbered gate, you’re welcomed by lush evergreens, mountain vistas, peaceful ponds, and wildlif... 12/29/2025

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

 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

As spring ushers in a kaleidoscope of colors and scents, there's an air of excitement in Sandpoint, Idaho as the town gears up for a beloved tradition—the opening day of Farmers' Market. A celebration of community, sustainability, and locally-sourced goodness, the market's debut is a beacon of hope and renewal for both residents and visitors alike.Farmers' Market at Sandpoint begins on May 4, 2024 and runs through October 12, 2024. The Market is open on Saturday mornings and Wednesday afternoons in Farmin Park in downtown Sandpoint, Idaho Saturday markets are from 9am until 1pm; Wednesday markets from 3pm until 530pm.Welcoming the Season:For many in Sandpoint, the opening day of the Farmers' Market marks the unofficial start of the warmer months. It's a time when vendors dust off their ... 05/04/2024

Reel in the Excitement: Exploring the Sandpoint Fishing Derby in IdahoAttention anglers, there's no better way to experience the thrill of fishing than at the annual Sandpoint Fishing Derby. With its scenic setting, friendly competition, and abundance of fish, the derby has become a beloved tradition that draws fishermen and women from near and far. Let's dive into the excitement and explore what makes the Sandpoint Fishing Derby a must-attend event for fishing enthusiasts of all levels.Casting Off: The Basics of the Sandpoint Fishing DerbyThe Spring Fishing Derby from April 27th to May 5th.  Anglers of all ages and skill levels gather at designated fishing spots along the lake's shoreline or aboard boats to try their luck at catching the biggest fish and competing for prizes. You can p... 04/30/2024

I am writing this to celebrate the life of Lynnette Miller, a woman who embodied the true meaning of compassion, kindness, and care. She was a shining example of what it meant to lead with your heart, to love and care for others without hesitation or reservation.She had a spirit that was truly infectious, and those who had the privilege of knowing her were touched by her warmth, her generosity, and her unwavering love. She lived her life with an open heart, always willing to lend a helping hand, an ear to listen, or a shoulder to cry on.Her kindness knew no bounds, and she went out of her way to make everyone feel seen, heard, and loved. Whether it was through a smile, a kind word, or a simple gesture, she had a way of making people feel valued and important.Her care and concern for oth... 05/08/2023

Have you heard of the Little Free Pantry program? It's a community-based initiative located in downtown Sandpoint that aims to provide wholesome and nutritious food to those in need. The program operates on the principle of mutual aid, where community members donate wholesome food items that are then made available to those who need them. The "Eat Smart IDAHO" program accepts food donations, ensuring that those who rely on the pantry have access to healthy and sustainable options. What's even better is their focus on youth involvement in community nutrition programs. By educating young people on healthy eating and sustainable food practices, they're setting the foundation for a healthier and more sustainable future.But the program isn't just about providing food. It's also about creatin... 05/08/2023

  North Idaho is known for its pristine beauty and natural landscapes, and it's no secret that keeping the area clean is a top priority for residents and visitors alike. From the crystal clear waters of Lake Pend Oreille to the rugged peaks of the Selkirk Mountains, North Idaho's natural wonders are worth protecting.One way that North Idaho residents are taking action to protect their environment is through regular clean-up events. In celebration of Earth Day, the City of Sandpoint is hosting a clean-up event at City Beach and Lower Sand Creek. This event provides an opportunity for residents to come together and make a tangible difference in the community by clearing our shorelines and waterways of trash.Participants are encouraged to meet at the City Beach pavilion on April 22, 2023 a... 04/16/2023

We are keeping the Easter Bunny hopping and those chickens havent been laying down on the job either.  Local communities in Sandpoint and Ponderay are gearing up for Easter with a host of exciting festivities planned for children and families. Here are some of the local events happening in the area.Christ our Redeemer Lutheran Church is hosting its annual 10K Egg-stravaganza on Sunday, April 10th. (Yep that is 10,000 brightly colored eggs)  The egg hunt, which begins at 11 a.m., is open to children between the ages of toddler and 12 years old. The event also offers complimentary refreshments for everyone. You can find more information on corsandpoint.org.The Sandpoint Lion Clubs will hold their annual Easter egg hunt on Saturday, April 16th, at Lakeview Park. The event starts at 9 a.m. ... 04/04/2023

   Thank you Mark McInnes for this  5.6 treed acres with beautiful mountain and panoramic views.  It is amazing how well the road is plowed and maintained.  This will make a really nice homesite for someone.  The terrain is perfect for someone that wants to capture the open views or to be tucked away in the forest for serene privacy.  Electric right at the property line and an area of high output wells.  Direct line of site to Schweitzer means wireless internet will be available.   I sold the parcel next door to this and here are a few summer time photos for you. Congrats on a nice listing and speedy sale.  01/23/2023

Flags in Sandpoint Idaho "Let's show off 'Ole Glory', in Active Rain, and proudly show our 'Stars and Stripes' being flown across the USA."  Thanks to Mark Don McInnes, and Endre Barath, Jr., for the June Active Rain Challenge.Mighty muscle cars and regal classics lining the streets of downtown Sandpoint Idaho.We come to see the cars, enjoy the ambiance, music and atmosphere year after year. It doesn’t really matter if you have been to dozens of shows and know every detail or if you’ve never been to a car show and simply like to look at cool cars.Take a look at a few of these beauties lovingly restored by their owners.   If you happen to be in Idaho next May be sure to come by during lost in the 50s weekend!      06/07/2022

Its that time of year again.  After a 2 years we finally get lost in the 50s back.  Come out and enjoy the fun. Schedule of Events Friday, May 20, 2022 Vintage car parade. Vintage car parade through downtown Sandpoint, looping first east down Church Street then north up First Avenue and back west up Cedar Street. Pick a spot anywhere along the parade route. Parade starts at 6 p.m.! Street dance. Immediately following the parade downtown, at Second Avenue and Main Street, it's dance time Its free and you can dress 50s style or come as you are.  Show and Dance at the Bonner County Fairgrounds.  Darlene Love and  Rocky and the Rollers will be rocking the house before and afterwards.  Saturday, May 21, 2022 Car show. Hundreds of hot rods and classics on display all up and down First, Cedar,... 05/20/2022

Sandpoint Idaho offers a full range of activities throughout the year.  Ski Schweitzer Mountain resort, go boating on lake pend Orielle, kayak and fish the river, ice fishing on Cocolalla lake. Enjoy the fresh grown goodies and local art at the farmers market.  Check out the bicycle paths of hike the hundreds of trails perhaps snap a photo of the mountain goat on Scotchman's peak. Enjoy a day of thrilling rides at Silverwood theme park or a casual day of downtown shopping.  Come Play and enjoy the many seasonal activities, there is something for everyone. 01/07/2022

Top of the morning all.  I have a weekly feature 'Friday Flag'.  Shots of our USA Flag being flown in the North Idaho area.  Business's and residents in and near Sandpoint Idaho.  I especially enjoy being able to highlight one from our listings.  This particular shot is of the flag at the Sandpoint Airport where we have a 'hangar lot' listed.  The weather has been turbulent the last week, which made for a nice 2nd shot looking south down the runway.  For further information regarding Hangar Lot: https://www.sandpointnorthidaho.com/idx/listing/featured/301810686/160-Airpark-Sandpoint-ID-83864  04/11/2021