As the largest city in the Inland Northwest, Spokane is often referred to as the center of business and trade, outdoor recreation, and culture. As the trade and medical center for a 36-county region covering eastern Washington, north Idaho, western Montana, and parts of Oregon, British Columbia, and Alberta, Spokane's prime location was recognized by Forbes magazine as the 9th "Best Place for Business and Careers." Furthermore, Spokane's regional economy thrives upon the emergence of new technologies in health and biosciences, research and education. Other traditional job industries such as forestry, manufacturing and agriculture remain popular in the Spokane area and still serve as valuable assets to the local economy.
Those who are lucky enough to call Spokane home know that outdoor recreation is a part of their everyday lives. The area's four-season climate, 260 days of sunshine, as well as its location between the Rocky and Cascade Mountain ranges, not to mention its proximity to the Canadian border and Idaho, allow residents to take advantage of the great outdoors. Over 33 fabulous golf courses and 76 local lakes can be found in Spokane. Snow bunnies will love the epic slopes of the northwest Rockies, while hikers and bikers will enjoy traversing the many trails that await them in this spectacular region. Spokane also boasts an active, vibrant downtown that was recently enhanced with the addition of a new pedestrian mall and old-fashioned streetcars.
Residents can take care of all their shopping needs at North Town Mall, the largest shopping mall in the area with over 165 stores and specialty shops. Spokane's award-winning schools, nationally renowned universities, and colleges reflect the region's commitment to education. Spokane's housing market includes a selection of single-family homes, townhouses, condos, and even equestrian and ranch properties.
Spokane offers a wide variety of housing types and prices. Spokane condos and townhouses near local colleges and within city limits, start at $100,000 and can exceed $1 million for newer, luxury models complete with exclusive community amenities. Spokane homes in gated or planned neighborhoods, new home subdivisions, and suburban enclaves can be found starting in the low $100,000s and ranging to $5 million and more for Spokane estate properties and golf course homes. Ranches, horse properties and development land are also available.
Active and retired members of the military find that Spokane is an ideal area to reside as the community is only a short 25 minute drive to Fairchild Air Force Base. Additionally, for those who are looking to custom build their dream home or investment property, the custom home market in Spokane is considered one of the most affordable in the nation.
Spokane WA Real Estate for the week of January 23rd, 2012: homes priced around $249,021 compared to $248,101 the previous week, for a slight increase of less than +1%. For Thursday, January 26th, the current national mortgage rate for a 30 year fixed mortgage is 3.92%; the 15 year fixed rate is at 3.24%. For a loan larger than conventional conforming loans, or 'jumbo' loan, the 30 year rate is 4.46%, while the 15 year jumbo rate currently is at 3.72%. You can calculate your mortgage rate with our mortgage calculators. Get local info and homes for sale in Spokane WA. View active real estate listings for different types of properties including new homes, houses for sale, foreclosures in Spokane, short sales, and price reduced listings. Find information and property resources including prices of recently sold homes in Spokane, Spokane neighborhood information, crime stats, home values, and schools in Spokane to help you find the best home!
