KOOTENAI COUNTY, Idaho — New housing developments and apartment complexes are appearing across North Idaho, but local realtors say it’s still not enough to meet demand.
People are moving to North Idaho for its outdoor lifestyle and political climate.
“There’s camping, there’s fishing, there’s hunting, you know, go up in the mountains, do what you want, go skiing,” said Loretta Hartman, owner of North Idaho Real Estate.
Her husband Karl Hartman added, “And let’s face it, I mean, politics is a big factor.”
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 16,000 people have moved to Kootenai County in the last 5 years.
“They’re coming from California, Oregon, Washington, Texas (and) Montana,” Loretta Hartman said.
Since January, 697 single-family homes have been sold in Kootenai County, up 5% from last year.
Properties in popular areas sell quickly.
“If it’s in the area, say it’s in Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, wherever, those places get picked up real fast,” Loretta Hartman explained.
The rental market is tight too.
“You have people that move up here and can’t really afford to buy right now, and are getting into rentals and staying in rentals until they can afford to buy something,” said Loretta Hartman.
With a median home price of $528,000, housing remains unaffordable for many.
“It’s sad because a lot of the people that are on a fixed income and don’t have money, they can’t afford to stay in their own houses,” Loretta Hartman said.
Out-of-state buyers can often afford higher prices, which impacts locals.
While affordable housing projects are underway in the area, Hartman says it’s not enough to meet the growing demand.
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