Incline Village Open House: November 22, 2025

Incline Village Open House: November 22, 2025

Looking for your Tahoe home? Come tour this lake-and-forest-view property offering modern conveniences throughout.

Saturday, November 22nd | 2–4 PM 
517 Driver Way – $4,799,000
6 bed | 4.5 bath | 3,626 sqft
Experience sweeping 180° lake views from this newly remodeled Eastern Slope retreat featuring multiple decks, flexible living spaces with in-law suite options, two kitchens, and modern upgrades throughout—just minutes from Diamond Peak, golf, trails, and private beaches. View Details

Stop by, explore, and picture life in your own Tahoe retreat!

Inside Incline | Market Update: November 20, 2025

Inside Incline | Market Update: November 20, 2025

Winter has officially arrived in Incline Village, with fresh snow on the peaks and the community easing into the holiday season. Local shops, restaurants, and ski resorts are gearing up for Thanksgiving and winter festivities, creating that familiar seasonal buzz along Tahoe Boulevard. On the real estate side, the market is cooling alongside the temperatures, with fewer new listings and more accurate pricing keeping things steady as we head into the holidays.

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Inside Incline | Market Update: November 12, 2025

Inside Incline | Market Update: November 12, 2025

The night sky over Lake Tahoe delivered pure magic – streaks of red, orange, and purple from the Aurora Borealis shimmered above the peaks in a rare and stunning Veterans Day display. Our community came together to honor those who serve, with the Rotary Club’s annual luncheon filled with gratitude, good company, and heartfelt connection.

As the seasons shift and ski resorts prepare to open, the local market remains steady. Homes are taking a bit longer to sell, but activity continues with a healthy mix of new listings, escrows, and price adjustments. It’s a balanced market that still offers opportunity for both buyers and sellers before winter fully sets in.

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Honoring Those Who Served

Honoring Those Who Served

Today, as we observe Veterans Day, we pause to thank and honor the courageous men and women of the United States Armed Forces – those who wore the uniform, stood watch, and defended the freedoms we cherish.

Originating as Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I on November 11, 1918, this date evolved into Veterans Day in 1954 to recognize all U.S. veterans, both in war and in peace.

But more than history, the day holds a personal meaning:

  • It’s an opportunity to offer a heartfelt “thank you” to those who served.
  • It reminds us that service takes many forms and some of the greatest sacrifices aren’t always visible.
  • It invites us to reflect on our community, our nation, and how deeply we rely on the commitment of these individuals.

So what can we do today?

  • Reach out to a veteran in your life – acknowledge their service.
  • Attend a local event or ceremony, show up and show respect.
  • Fly the flag, listen to stories, educate younger generations about what service means.
  • And perhaps most simply: say “thank you for your service … and for preserving the freedoms we enjoy.”

To all the veterans in and around our community – near the lake, in the mountains, across the country – your service matters. Your sacrifices did not go unnoticed. We honor you today and every day.

Thank you. We salute you.

The Proposed 50-Year Mortgage: A Short-Term Fix That Could Cost Buyers Big

The Proposed 50-Year Mortgage: A Short-Term Fix That Could Cost Buyers Big

Every few years, a new idea surfaces promising to “make homeownership more affordable.” The latest headline grabber? The proposed 50-year mortgage.

At first glance, it sounds appealing – stretch the loan term, lower the monthly payment, and suddenly that dream home feels within reach. But what looks good on paper can quickly turn into financial quicksand. A lower payment might ease short-term stress, but it can quietly steal your long-term wealth.


The 50-Year Loan: What It Really Means

Let’s break down the real math behind a 50-year mortgage.

A standard 30-year loan of $1,000,000 at today’s interest rates comes to about $5,995 per month, with total interest of roughly $1,158,000 over the life of the loan.

Stretch that same loan to 50 years, and your payment dips to around $5,280 a month. Sounds good, until you realize you’d pay about $2,168,000 in interest.

Based on 6% interest

That’s a $715 monthly savings in exchange for an extra $1 million in interest. It’s a tradeoff that might make your monthly budget feel lighter, but it makes your financial future far heavier.

And remember, with a 50-year loan, it will take decades longer to build real equity, the kind of wealth that lets you upgrade, retire with confidence, or weather life’s unexpected turns.

The Real Challenge: It’s Not the Payment — It’s the Down Payment

Here’s the truth most homeowners don’t talk about: coming up with the down payment is the hardest part.

When I bought my first home, I could easily afford the monthly payment. What nearly broke me was trying to scrape together $200,000 for the down payment. That’s where most buyers struggle today, especially in a high-cost area like Lake Tahoe.

Lenders often want 20% down – and if you can’t manage that, you’ll likely pay Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). Think of PMI as an interest-only “tax” that protects the lender, not you. It can easily add hundreds of dollars a month to your payment without building your equity.

That’s why, instead of creating another long-term loan product, I’d rather see expanded down payment assistance programs – tools that help qualified buyers get into homes responsibly, without putting their financial future at risk.

What Buyers Should Do Instead

If you’re shopping for a home (or planning to), take the time to:

  1. Do the math. Compare total loan costs, not just monthly payments.
  2. Explore down payment assistance options. Nevada and California have excellent local programs that many buyers don’t even know exist.
  3. Ask about PMI alternatives. Some lenders offer creative structures that minimize or remove PMI once a certain amount of equity is built.
  4. Think long-term, not longest-term. You want a mortgage that fits your life, not one that chains you to it.

The Bottom Line

A 50-year mortgage might look like a lifeline, but in reality, it’s often just a longer leash. Homeownership should build stability and wealth, not lock you into a lifetime of payments.

If you’re serious about buying in Lake Tahoe or the surrounding areas, I’d love to help you run the numbers, explore your lending options, and make sure your home purchase is a smart one, not just an affordable one.

Incline Village Open Houses: November 8-9, 2025

Incline Village Open Houses: November 8-9, 2025

Looking for your Tahoe home? Come tour three properties that balance comfort, convenience, and mountain charm – each with its own unique appeal!

Saturday, November 8th | 2–4 PM and Sunday, November 9th | 2-4pm
866 Northwood Blvd, Unit 6 – $825,000
3 bed | 2.5 bath | 1,628 sqft
Spacious and centrally located, this home offers easy access with a covered carport right next door and a private patio leading to scenic walkways. With a few thoughtful updates, it’s a fantastic opportunity in the heart of Incline Village. View Details

Saturday, November 8th | 2–4 PM
845 Southwood Blvd, Unit 22 – $829,000
3 bed | 2 bath | 1,332 sqft
Short-term rentals are permitted at this inviting home that backs up to a tranquil creek and wooded views. Inside, hickory kitchen cabinets and hardwood floors bring warmth and character to the open layout. View Details

Sunday, November 9th | 1–3 PM
908 Harold Dr, Unit 23 – $1,225,000
3 bed | 3.5 bath | 1,452 sqft
Enjoy sunny southwest views from the large deck and flexible living spaces – including a private studio with a kitchenette perfect for guests or extended stays. Partial updates provide a head start for your personal touches. View Details

Stop by, explore, and picture life in your own Tahoe retreat!

Inside Incline | Market Update: November 6, 2025

Inside Incline | Market Update: November 6, 2025

This week’s market update beautifully blends Lake Tahoe’s real estate insights with the rich heritage of the Washoe Tribe, the original stewards of “Da ow ga” — The Lake. Discover how local efforts continue to honor that legacy while protecting the natural beauty that makes our region so special.

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Incline Village Broker’s Tour Highlights – November 4, 2025

Incline Village Broker’s Tour Highlights – November 4, 2025

Every week (or two during the winter), I preview homes across Incline Village and Crystal Bay to stay on top of the market and help my buyers make smart, confident decisions. Here are the homes I saw on today’s tour.


1100 Lucerne Way – $1,680,000 [Link]

3 bed | 2.5 bath | 2,240 sqft

Inside this Tyrolia home, the updated kitchen and well-kept interiors reflect true pride of ownership, while ample parking and filtered lake views add to its everyday appeal. A wonderful find for buyers who value simplicity and charm – plus the added bonus of a shared neighborhood pool and hot tub to enjoy year-round.


984 Tyner Way – $1,695,000 [Link]

4 bed | 2.5 bath | 2,036 sqft

Set against open space, this home offers a peaceful setting to enjoy from the spacious deck and private hot tub. Inside, thoughtful updates and a recent remodel bring a bright, modern-mountain feel with plenty of natural light. With a refreshed exterior, this property could truly shine – blending comfort, style, and the easy Tahoe lifestyle buyers love.


771 Randall Avenue – $1,895,000 [Link]

3 bed | 4 bath | 2,356 sqft

This home features an expansive primary suite addition and plenty of natural light. The property offers potential for buyers who enjoy customizing spaces to fit their own taste and flow. With the right vision, this could become a cozy year-round residence in the Upper Tyner neighborhood.


590 North Dyer Circle – $2,495,000 [Link]

4 bed | 3 bath | 2,080 sqft

Tucked into the peaceful Woods neighborhood, this single-level home pairs tasteful updates with easy Tahoe style. A recent remodel brightened every room, and the spacious backyard – with a large entertaining deck and plenty of natural light – feels like your own private retreat. An excellent value for anyone seeking comfortable mountain living close to everything Incline Village offers.


565 Alden Lane – $3,250,000 [Link]

4 bed | 3.5 bath | 3,329 sqft

This beautifully maintained mountain home combines classic Tahoe charm with a functional layout and lovely lake views. All bedrooms are located on one level, including a lakeview primary suite. The lower level includes a versatile bonus suite with a full bath, laundry, and private entrance – ideal for guests, a game room, or a secondary living area.


563 Tyner Way – $3,875,000 [Link]

4 bed | 4.5 bath | 4,131 sqft

Commanding lake views and exceptional construction define this home. Originally built in the 1970s, it has been thoughtfully remodeled over time and still feels solid and well-planned. With a few contemporary updates, this could be a true Tahoe masterpiece – blending timeless craftsmanship with modern comfort.


951 Divot Court – $7,000,000 [Link]

6 bed | 6.5+ bath | 8,529 sqft

This one truly captures classic Tahoe without the pretension. From the vaulted ceilings and stonework entry to the open great room overlooking Third Creek and the Mountain Course, it’s beautifully designed for entertaining. The main living space sits upstairs with a large chef’s kitchen and a generous primary suite. Once inside, you forget you’re near neighboring condos – it feels like a world apart.


My Takeaway

Each home I previewed today offered its own Tahoe lifestyle — from turnkey retreats to hidden gems ready for transformation. If you’re a buyer, I’ll help you see which homes truly deliver beyond the photos. If you’re a seller, this is how I position your property to stand out on tour and online.

Reach out anytime – I’d love to help you find the Tahoe home that fits your lifestyle, budget, and dreams.

Contact:

Kristie Wells | Nevada License: S.0204026 | Phone: 415-692-1002 | Email: [email protected]

Inside Incline | Market Update: October 30, 2025

Inside Incline | Market Update: October 30, 2025

The first snowfall has arrived, dusting Diamond Peak and signaling that winter is just around the corner. Locals are swapping paddleboards for skis, tuning gear, and preparing for the mountain’s 60th season opener on December 4th. The real estate market is also shifting with the seasons — settling into a balanced rhythm with more listings coming online.

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Inside Incline | Market Update: October 24, 2025

Inside Incline | Market Update: October 24, 2025

It’s that magical time between fall and winter when golden aspens meet a dusting of snow – what locals call “snowliage.” This week’s market stayed active with steady movement across all price points, including two new lakefront listings in Stillwater Cove and continued strength in the under-$1M range.

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