One of the most unique things about the United States is that it is so diverse and varied that moving into a new area may be a bit of a culture shock, even though you haven't even left the country! Unlike somewhere like, say, the Netherlands, where everything is predictable and going to a new city generally means knowing what to expect, the United States has a wholly distinctive set of cultural bends, from New Orleans to New York and Los Angeles to Miami.
Boise, Idaho, is a lovely area to live in with the wide expanse of natural surroundings and the vast opportunities for outdoor recreation, sometimes literally at your doorstep. Here are some things to know about the life here in Boise so you will be ready should you be looking for Boise real estate and Boise homes for sale.
Nature and Fitness
The great outdoors are a way of life in Boise, with one of the country's healthiest and most active populations. There are opportunities for mountain biking, skiing, hiking, and kayaking. Bicycles, rowboats, and skis are not an uncommon sight at all on top of cars and trucks. Walking down the street in Boise, you will see many people who obviously spend a significant number of their non-working hours being active, as their physiques will testify. If you are in the prime of your life yet not active at all, it may prove a bit difficult to blend into the social surroundings because you will inevitably be invited to put on some hiking boots or a life vest and get out into the open country. If you have lived a relatively sedentary life, Boise is an ideal place for you to change those habits and get yourself into shape. Get some of that “harumph” energy that comes with some good vigorous activity!
Transportation
If you are coming from a college town or major metropolitan area where you don’t need a car very often, that will change once you get to Boise. There is a public transportation system, but the buses run few and far between, so you will likely require a car for all transportation needs, be it going shopping or simply getting your morning cup of coffee. Cars are a part of life here in Boise, so much so that, if you enjoy classic car shows, there are a number of them to be seen here!
Without a doubt, keep up to date on your AAA membership and get a discount card from the local car wash because you will likely be putting quite a few miles on your vehicle. Boise real estate and Boise homes for sale will often come with ample parking, so there won't be any issues if you have two cars plus a car for your teenager.
Related: What to Know About the Current Boise, Idaho Real Estate Market
Lifestyle
Although the downtown area is changing the housing market due to the influx of condominiums and lofts, there is still a great deal of emphasis placed on the time-honored, single-family home, which you will find everywhere in Boise. This kind of lifestyle will be an adjustment if you are coming from a place like Manhattan. Still, these traditions are highly valued in Boise because it gives residents plenty of space to entertain, relax, and allow the children a place to play under watchful eyes. Naturally, this comes with the need to maintain a property, an obligation you may not have had if you move to Boise from a high-rise in Chicago or Miami. The vast majority of residents who transition to this new type of life are delighted by the space that it brings to them and their lives.
The Best Friend to Have
If you have been looking into Boise, the absolute best thing you can do to get your foot in the area's door is to contact your local real estate agent to talk about Boise real estate and Boise homes for sale. Although this article can cover some of the generalities, an agent will be able to ask precisely the right questions and determine the neighborhood and area that best suits you and your particular situation. Make sure you get an agent that knows how to ask the right questions! Those are the best by far. But even if you do find one that is top-notch in this respect, make a preliminary checklist of things that are on your must-have list for the way you want to live once you’ve become acclimated to the area.
Ready to find Boise real estate
Are you ready to start looking at Boise homes for sale so you can make this area your new home base? Reach out to trusted local agent Manda Edge for guidance.