Neighborhood of the week: Foxtail

Pioneers.

That's what Realtor Brian Kleinjans of Northwest Realty Group thinks of when he sells someone a home in Foxtail.

"They're the first ones in this neighborhood," Kleinjans said. "They will set the tone for how it develops."

Hallmark Homes broke ground on Foxtail a year ago, and a third of the 36 lots in Phase 1 are already sold. "The activity is very brisk," he said. "Considering the state of the economy, that's good."

Foxtail is one of the newest developments in Post Falls. Wandering through the quiet neighborhood, gazing at the sweeping prairie and mountain views, you can't help but feel a sense of openness and peace. Although Post Falls continues to expand, the growth is primarily on the west side of Highway 41, whereas Foxtail is to the east. So, the area around it is still relatively undeveloped.

"It has a rural feel, yet it's close to everything," Kleinjans said.

The location is "really advantageous." Although you feel like you're living in the country, downtown Coeur d'Alene, the Valley mall, and Hayden are all 15 minutes away. It's ideal for couples who work in two different locations, Kleinjans said. "They can take Highway 41 to Interstate 90 and turn either left or right." It's close to the high school and existing elementary school (the development's master plan includes another elementary school). And with the improvements planned for Prairie Avenue, access will be even easier (the development is bordered by Prairie to the north.)

He said that there's a good mix of people buying in Foxtail, "retirees and teachers with kids, and everything in between."

The lots vary in size up to 1/3 acre, and are perfect for "baby boomers, empty nesters, and downsizers who want a nice home with nice amenities, but don't want as much yard to maintain any more."

"Housing prices rose 10 percent last year in our area, so houses are worth 10 percent more, as well," Kleinjans said. Housing values increase based on the desirability of a neighborhood. So this is the perfect time to buy in Foxtail and get in on the ground floor, while it is still affordable.

Originally posted here:
Neighborhood of the week: Foxtail