Mindful Water Co. in Idaho Falls

When you've lived in Idaho Falls as long as I have, you get to watch this community grow in all the right ways. New restaurants, new trails, new small businesses started by neighbors chasing something they believe in. Mindful Water Co. is one of those local finds worth knowing about — especially if you're the type who cares about what's actually in your glass.

What Is Mindful Water Co.?

Mindful Water Co. is a locally owned water purification and wellness company right here in Idaho Falls, with a retail spot on Yellowstone Ave. Their focus is simple: deliver ultra-clean, highly filtered water without the plastic waste that comes with a case of bottled water from the store.

Their filtration process is designed to strip out the stuff you don't want in your water — things like microplastics, PFAS, chlorine, fluoride, heavy metals, and other contaminants that standard tap filters often miss. The water is then delivered in reusable, hand-etched glass bottles through a simple bottle-swap program, so you're not adding to the mountain of single-use plastic every time you refill.

Why It Fits Idaho Falls

Part of what makes this community special is that people here still care about doing things the right way — supporting neighbors, valuing craftsmanship, and paying attention to quality of life. A locally run water company that prioritizes both health and sustainability fits right into that mindset. It's the kind of small business that reflects what a lot of us love about Southeast Idaho: practical, community-minded, and a little bit intentional about the details.

If you're already thinking about wellness in other parts of your life — clean eating, an active outdoors lifestyle, taking care of your family — clean water is often the piece that gets overlooked. Mindful Water Co. makes it easy to check that box without much extra effort.

Worth a Visit

Whether you're a longtime local or just settling into a new home in Idaho Falls, it's worth stopping by and seeing what they offer. Small, locally owned businesses like this are part of what makes our community feel like a community — not just a place people pass through.


 

I've spent 25+ years serving families across Idaho Falls, Ammon, Shelley, Rigby, and the surrounding areas — not just helping people buy and sell homes, but sharing what makes this place worth putting down roots. If you're curious about the neighborhoods, the local businesses, or the market itself, I'm always happy to talk. 25 years here. Still answering the phone.

Aug. 20, 2026

Bingham County Real Estate Market Update — August 2026

Meta description: Bingham County has 3.9 months of inventory and sellers are still netting 97.3% of original list — but the $105K gap between asking and selling prices tells the real story.


If you own a home in Blackfoot, Shelley, Firth, or anywhere else in Bingham County and you've been wondering whether now is the time to sell — or if you've been watching listings and wondering whether prices are finally coming down — the August numbers give you a pretty clear answer.

Here's what the market looked like as of August 19, 2026, and what it actually means for you.

The headline numbers

  • 167 active listings countywide
  • 48 pending sales, a 22% pending ratio
  • 128 homes sold in the last three months — about 42.7 per month
  • 3.9 months of inventory at the current pace of sales
  • 60 days on market for homes that actually sold
  • 97.3% of original list price — what sellers netted on average

Average sold price came in at $448,327. Average asking price on what's currently active? $553,829.

That last pair of numbers is the whole story.

What 3.9 months of inventory tells us

Months supply of inventory is just a measure of how long it would take to sell everything currently on the market if nothing new came on. Under six months has historically meant a seller's market. Over six means buyers are in the driver's seat.

At 3.9 months, Bingham County is still tilted toward sellers — but it's a long way from the two-month, multiple-offer market a lot of folks still have in their heads. Homes are selling. They're just not selling instantly, and they're not selling at whatever number the seller picks.

The absorption rate backs this up: 25.6% of available inventory is clearing each month. That's a functioning market with real demand underneath it.

The $105,000 gap

Average active list price is $553,829. Average sold price is $448,327. That's a $105,502 spread between what sellers are asking and what buyers are actually paying.

Now, part of that gap is mix — the active inventory chart shows a big stack of listings sitting in the $500K to $600K range, which pulls the average up. But part of it is straightforward overpricing, and you can see the evidence in the days-on-market numbers:

  • Homes currently active: 74 days on market
  • Homes that sold: 60 days on market

The listings still sitting there have been sitting longer than the ones that closed. That's not a coincidence. The market is sorting homes into two piles — priced right and priced hopeful — and the second pile just accumulates.

Sellers who price correctly are doing fine

This is the part that gets lost when people hear "the market is slowing."

Look at the pricing path on closed sales:

  • Original list price: $463,361
  • Final list price after reductions: $453,750 (97.7% of original)
  • Sold price: $448,327 (99.2% of final list)

Total distance from original asking price to closing: 2.7%.

That is a healthy, disciplined market. Sellers who came in at a realistic number gave up less than three cents on the dollar. The average price cut was under $10,000. Buyers are not lowballing — once a home is priced where the market lives, it closes within about 1% of asking.

The pain isn't happening at the closing table. It's happening in the 74 days before a seller finally admits the first number was wrong.

What this means if you're selling

Price it right the first time. The single biggest cost in this market isn't a price reduction — it's the time you spend waiting to make one. Every week at the wrong number burns showing traffic, and by the time you correct, buyers have already labeled the listing stale.

Know your bracket. If your home lands in the $500K–$600K range, you have the most competition in the county. That's where inventory is stacked deepest. You need better preparation, better photos, and a sharper price than a seller in the $300Ks does.

Sixty days is normal now. Plan for it. If you need to be out by a certain date, we should be talking about your listing timeline months ahead, not weeks.

What this means if you're buying

You have room to work. Two years ago, asking for repairs was a good way to lose a house. Today, with 167 active listings and average time on market at 74 days, sellers who have been waiting are motivated to negotiate.

The $500K+ range is your best leverage. That's where the inventory glut is. If your budget reaches into that bracket, you have real choice for the first time in a while.

Don't confuse leverage with a fire sale. Well-priced homes are still closing at 99.2% of asking. If you find a house that's been on the market ten days and priced correctly, treat it accordingly — that one isn't waiting for you.

The seasonal picture

Sold volume peaked in June and has been tapering since. That's completely normal for Southeast Idaho — families move in summer to line up with the school calendar, and activity thins as we head into fall.

What that means practically: sellers listing right now are competing for a smaller buyer pool than they would have in May, which puts even more weight on getting the price right. Buyers, on the other hand, get less competition through the fall months. The slower season has always favored the prepared party on either side.

The bottom line

Bingham County in August 2026 is a market that rewards accuracy. There is real demand — 128 homes closed in three months and inventory is clearing at over 25% a month. But buyers have information, options, and patience, and they are not paying for optimism.

If you're thinking about selling in the next six to twelve months, the most valuable conversation you can have right now is an honest one about what your home is actually worth — not what your neighbor listed at.


Thinking about buying or selling in Blackfoot, Shelley, Firth, or anywhere in Bingham County? I've been doing this in Southeast Idaho for 25 years, and I'm happy to walk you through what these numbers mean for your specific address. No pressure, no pitch — just a straight read on your situation.

Chris Schmalz | Chris Schmalz Real Estate Group 25 years here. Still answering the phone.

 

Market data as of August 19, 2026, sourced from the AreaPro Real Estate Market Overview for Bingham County, total market. Figures reflect countywide averages and may not represent conditions in a specific neighborhood or price range.

Aug. 10, 2026

Chubbuck & Pocatello Market Update: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know Right Now

Market data as of August 9, 2026

If you're thinking about buying or selling in Chubbuck or Pocatello, here's the honest read on where things stand today — no fluff, just the numbers and what they mean for you.

The Big Picture: A Balanced Market

Right now there's 3.3 months of supply on the market, with an absorption rate of 30.4%. In plain English: this isn't the frantic seller's market of a few years ago, but it's not a buyer's free-for-all either. We're sitting close to balanced territory, which means well-priced homes are still moving, and buyers have enough options to be selective.

What's Currently on the Market

  • 322 active listings across Chubbuck and Pocatello
  • Active listings are averaging 70 days on market
  • 101 homes are pending, putting the pending ratio at 24%

That pending ratio tells you something important: roughly a quarter of what's out there is already spoken for. Inventory is there, but it's not sitting untouched.

Most of the action is happening in the $300k–$350k and $500k–$600k ranges, which are the two clear hot spots on the active listings chart. If you're a seller in one of those bands, expect more competition. If you're shopping there, expect more choices.

What's Actually Been Selling

Over the last three months:

  • 294 homes sold
  • Sold listings averaged just 49 days on market — noticeably faster than active listings, which tells you priced-right homes don't sit
  • That's about 98 sales per month
  • Homes sold for 96.8% of original list price on average

That last number is the one worth sitting with. Homes are consistently landing within a few percentage points of asking. Overpricing still costs you time on market; pricing it right from day one is still the fastest way to a closed deal.

Where Prices Actually Land

Here's the full pricing picture, from list to close:

Stage Price
Active list price (avg) $422,576
Pending list price (avg) $379,382
Original list price (sold) $373,634
Final list price (sold) $367,482
Sold price (avg) $363,335

Sellers are adjusting an average of 1.9% off their original list price before going final, and closing about 1.3% below that final list price. All in, homes are closing at 96.8% of what they were originally listed for — which, again, is a healthy, realistic number. It's not a market where sellers need to slash prices to sell, but it's also not one where you can list high and expect full price.

What This Means for You

If you're selling: Price it accurately from the start. Homes that hit the market at a realistic number are selling in under 50 days at nearly full price. Homes that get overpriced are the ones padding that 70-day active average.

If you're buying: You've got real inventory to work with — 322 active listings is a healthy pool — but don't assume you have all the leverage. A quarter of the market is already pending, and homes that are priced well aren't lingering. If you find the right one, move on it.

If you're investing: The $300k–$350k band is clearly where the volume is. That's useful to know whether you're looking at rental comps, flip potential, or just gauging where demand is concentrated.

Bottom Line

Chubbuck and Pocatello are holding steady — not overheated, not soft. Homes priced right are selling close to asking price in under two months. That's a market that rewards good pricing strategy over guesswork, whether you're on the buying or selling side.

Have questions about what this means for your specific situation? I've been doing this in Southeast Idaho for 25 years — give me a call.


 

Chris Schmalz Real Estate Group | Keller Williams Realty East Idaho | PLACE 25 years here. Still answering the phone.

Posted in Pocatello, ID
Aug. 7, 2026

Jefferson County Market Update: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know Right Now

Market data as of August 6, 2026

If you're thinking about buying or selling in Jefferson County — Rigby, Ririe, or anywhere in between — here's where things actually stand, no fluff.

The Big Picture: A Balanced Market

Right now Jefferson County is sitting at 2.9 months of supply with a 34.6% absorption rate. In plain English: this isn't the frantic, multiple-offer market of a few years ago, but it's not a buyer's free-for-all either. We're in that in-between zone where well-priced homes still move, and overpriced ones sit.

Active vs. Pending: What's on the Market Today

  • 104 active listings across the county
  • 69 days average time on market for active listings
  • 44 pending sales
  • 30% pending ratio — meaning roughly 3 in 10 active listings are already under contract

That 69-day average is worth paying attention to. It tells buyers there's room to be thoughtful and tells sellers that pricing matters more than ever — homes priced right aren't waiting nearly that long.

Where the Inventory Sits

Most of the action is happening in the $600k–$700k range, which has the deepest pool of active listings, followed by a solid cluster in the $350k–$400k and $400k–$500k bands. The $1M+ segment is thinner, as you'd expect, with fewer but more specialized buyers.

What's Actually Selling

Over the last 3 months:

  • 108 homes sold
  • 36 sold per month on average
  • 60 days average time on market for sold properties
  • 97.1% of original list price achieved

That last number is the one I'd point sellers to first. Homes that sold in the last 90 days closed at 97.1% of their original asking price — not their final, reduced price. That's a strong sign the market rewards accurate pricing from day one.

The Price Breakdown

  Active Pending
Average Price $594,622 $473,837

For closed sales:

  • Original List Price: $517,061
  • Final List Price: $504,900 (98.1% of original)
  • Sold Price: $497,892 (99.0% of final list, 97.1% of original)

What This Means If You're Selling

Price it right the first time. The gap between original list price and final sold price is real, but it's modest for homes priced accurately from the start. Sellers who overshoot end up chasing the market down with reductions — sellers who price to today's data tend to close closer to full value.

What This Means If You're Buying

You have more breathing room than you did a couple of years ago. A 69-day average days-on-market means you're not necessarily competing against ten other offers on your first showing. That said, homes in the $600k–$700k range are moving with the most activity, so if you're shopping that bracket, be ready to act when you find the right one.

Bottom Line

Jefferson County is a market with real activity but no panic in either direction. Whether you're buying your first home in Rigby or listing a property near Ririe, the numbers say the same thing: know your price, know your timeline, and don't guess.

Questions about what this means for your specific street or subdivision? That's what we're here for.

 

Chris Schmalz Real Estate Group 25 years here. Still answering the phone. Keller Williams Realty East Idaho | PLACE

July 31, 2026

What Today's Interest Rates Really Mean for Idaho Falls Real Estate

If you've been sitting on the sidelines waiting for mortgage rates to drop back to 3%, I've got some straight talk for you: that's not the market we're in, and it's probably not the market we're going back to anytime soon. Let's talk about where rates actually stand, what that means here in Southeast Idaho, and how to make smart decisions in this environment instead of waiting for one that may not come.

Where Rates Stand Right Now

As of late July 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is sitting in the mid-6% range — roughly 6.6% to 6.8% depending on the day and the lender. That's actually lower than the 7%+ rates we saw in late 2023, and it's in the same neighborhood as this time last year. The Federal Reserve has held its benchmark rate steady through the first half of 2026 after cutting a few times in late 2025, and most forecasters — Fannie Mae, the Mortgage Bankers Association, and others — expect rates to hover in the mid-6% range through the rest of the year rather than swing dramatically in either direction.

Here's the piece a lot of buyers miss: rates aren't just about the Fed. They track the 10-year Treasury yield, and this year that's been pushed around by things like oil prices and broader economic uncertainty. Translation — expect some week-to-week wiggle, but don't bank your homebuying timeline on a big drop.

What This Means for Idaho Falls Specifically

Locally, we're in a more balanced market than the frenzy of a few years ago. Idaho Falls has seen modest, single-digit appreciation over the past year — different data sources put it anywhere from roughly flat to a couple percent, depending on the month and methodology. Homes are also sitting on the market a bit longer than they were during the peak, which gives buyers more breathing room to negotiate and sellers more reason to price realistically from day one.

Statewide, most forecasts call for Idaho home values to grow somewhere in the 2–5% range in 2026 — solid, but nowhere near the double-digit jumps we saw during the pandemic run-up. That's actually healthy. A market that cools off a little is more sustainable than one that keeps overheating.

A Word of Honesty on "Home Values Always Go Up"

I've been doing this since 2001, and I'll tell you plainly: home values don't move in a straight line, and anyone who tells you they never go down isn't being straight with you. We saw real declines in 2008–2011, and even here in Idaho Falls, some recent month-over-month data has shown small dips alongside the overall upward trend. What is true is that real estate has historically been one of the more resilient, wealth-building assets over long holding periods — five, ten, twenty years — especially in a market like ours with steady job growth, constrained inventory, and strong underlying demand. That's a very different (and more honest) pitch than "home values never fall," and it's the one worth building a decision around.

So What Should Buyers and Sellers Actually Do?

If you're buying: Waiting for rates to drop to pandemic-era levels could mean waiting years — and if home prices keep climbing even modestly while you wait, you may not come out ahead. If the payment works for your budget today, it's worth talking through your options rather than trying to time a market nobody can predict with certainty.

If you're selling: Buyers are still active, but they're more rate-sensitive and more selective than they were a few years ago. Pricing accurately from the start and presenting the home well matters more now than it did when almost anything sold in a weekend.

If you're an investor: Rate environments like this one tend to sideline less-committed buyers, which can mean less competition for well-positioned properties. Cash flow math matters more at 6.6% than it did at 3%, so run your numbers carefully — but don't assume this window stays open forever.

Bottom Line

Rates are stable-ish, inventory is loosening up a bit, and the Idaho Falls market is in a healthier, more balanced place than it was during the pandemic boom. That doesn't mean it's a bad time to buy or sell — it means it's a time to make decisions with real numbers instead of waiting on a market that may never return to what it used to be.

 

Got questions about what this means for your specific situation? I've been answering the phone in this market for 25 years — give me a call.

July 22, 2026

How Long Does It Really Take to Buy a Home in Southeast Idaho?

If you've started searching online, you've probably seen every answer from "30 days" to "six months." The truth is, both can be right. It just depends on where you're starting from and how prepared you are when you begin.

I've been helping buyers close on homes in Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rigby, Blackfoot, Shelley, Rexburg, and Pocatello for 25 years, and the timeline almost always comes down to three phases: getting ready, finding the right home, and getting to the closing table. Here's what each one actually looks like.

Phase 1: Getting Mortgage-Ready (1 Day to a Few Weeks)

This is the step people skip and regret. Before you tour a single home, you need a lender who can tell you what you actually qualify for.

  • If your finances are straightforward (steady income, decent credit, documentation ready to go), pre-approval can happen in a day or two.
  • If there's cleanup to do, such as credit issues, self-employment income, or a high debt-to-income ratio, this phase can stretch to a few weeks or longer.

In a market like ours, where a well-priced home in Ammon or Idaho Falls can get an offer within days of listing, showing up without a pre-approval letter means you're not really shopping yet. You're just looking.

Phase 2: The Home Search (2 Weeks to Several Months)

This is the phase with the widest range, and it depends heavily on your city and price point.

  • Idaho Falls and Ammon: Inventory moves fast, especially in the $300K to $450K range. Buyers who know exactly what they want and act quickly are often under contract within a month.
  • Rigby and Shelley: More new construction and a bit more breathing room, but desirable lots and finished homes still go quickly.
  • Blackfoot and Pocatello: Generally more affordable with a bit more inventory to choose from, which can mean a slightly longer, less pressured search.
  • Rexburg: Strong rental and investment demand, thanks to BYU-Idaho, keeps certain price points competitive year-round.

If you're flexible on location and price, you might find your home in a couple of weekends. If you're holding out for a specific neighborhood, acreage, or a hard-to-find layout, plan on this phase taking longer, sometimes several months.

Phase 3: Contract to Closing (30 to 45 Days)

Once you're under contract, Southeast Idaho closings typically run 30 to 45 days, covering:

  • Inspection period (usually 7 to 10 days)
  • Appraisal (ordered early, but can take 2 to 3 weeks depending on the lender and appraiser availability)
  • Underwriting and final loan approval
  • Title work and closing coordination

Cash buyers can move faster, sometimes closing in two to three weeks. VA and USDA loans, common in our rural areas, can occasionally add a few days for extra documentation, but rarely add weeks if your lender is experienced with them.

So, Realistically: How Long Does the Whole Thing Take?

For most buyers in Idaho Falls and the surrounding communities, plan on 60 to 90 days from the day you start seriously looking to the day you get keys, assuming you're pre-approved before you start touring homes.

Buyers who are flexible, decisive, and already financially prepared can beat that timeline. Buyers who are still shopping for a lender, unsure of their budget, or set on a very specific home should build in more cushion.

The One Thing That Speeds Everything Up

Get pre-approved before you fall in love with a house. It's the single biggest factor in how fast, and how smoothly, the rest of the process goes, especially in a market where good homes in Idaho Falls, Ammon, and Rigby don't sit long.


 

25 years here. Still answering the phone. If you're thinking about buying in Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rigby, Blackfoot, Shelley, Rexburg, or Pocatello and want a straight answer on timing for your situation, reach out. We work with a trusted network of local lenders and can get you connected to get pre-qualified quickly, often within a day or two, so you're ready to move the moment the right home hits the market. I'm happy to walk through it with you.

Posted in Buying a home
July 20, 2026

Bonneville County Market Update: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know Right Now

Numbers don't lie, and the latest Bonneville County data tells a clear story: this is still very much a seller's market, but it's cooling in a way that's actually healthy for everyone involved. Here's what's happening as of mid-July 2026.

Inventory Is Tight, But Loosening

We're sitting at 3.2 months of supply right now. For context, a "balanced" market is usually considered 5-6 months, so we're still well below that line. That means sellers have leverage, but it's not the frenzy we saw a couple years back. There are 470 active listings on the market today, with another 224 homes pending — a 32% pending ratio that tells you buyers are still moving when the right house comes along.

Homes Are Sitting Longer Than They Used To

The average days on market for active listings is 72 days. Sold homes over the last three months averaged 49 days on market before going under contract. That's a meaningful shift from the "list it Thursday, offers by Sunday" pace of the past few years. Buyers have a little more breathing room to think things through, and sellers need to price accurately from day one rather than testing the top of the market.

Sales Volume Is Steady

447 homes sold in Bonneville County over the last three months, averaging 149 sales per month. That's a healthy, consistent pace — not a boom, not a bust. Just steady demand from a growing area.

Pricing: Sellers Are Still Getting Close to Asking

This is the number I get asked about most. Homes are selling at 97.1% of their original list price on average. Break it down further and here's what it looks like:

  • Original List Price: $455,448
  • Final List Price: $445,759 (98.1% of original — meaning most sellers made a small adjustment along the way)
  • Sold Price: $447,511 (98.9% of final list price)

In plain terms: pricing right the first time still matters. Homes that get a price cut tend to sell close to that adjusted number, not much below it. The days of routinely offering $20-30k over asking have cooled, but well-priced homes are still selling close to what sellers are asking.

Where the Action Is

Looking at active listings by price range, the $350k-$400k and $600k-$700k bands have the most inventory right now, with activity thinning out considerably above $1M. If you're shopping in that $350-500k range, expect more competition. If you're above $600k, you'll likely have more room to negotiate.

What This Means If You're Selling

Price it right from the start. With homes averaging 49-72 days to sell, overpricing just means a longer time on market and an eventual price cut — and buyers notice a stale listing. Come in at a realistic number based on recent comps, not what your neighbor got two years ago.

What This Means If You're Buying

You have more time than you did a year or two ago, but don't mistake "more time" for "no competition." At a 32% pending ratio, roughly a third of what's on the market is already spoken for. If you find the right home in the $350-400k or $600-700k range, be ready to move.

Questions About Your Specific Situation?

Market averages are useful, but they don't tell you what your home is worth or what you should offer on that house you've been watching. That's where a conversation helps more than a spreadsheet.

25 years here. Still answering the phone. Give us a call.

 

Market data current as of July 19, 2026, covering Bonneville County. Data provided by Chris Schmalz Real Estate Group.

Posted in News
July 8, 2026

Blackfoot Real Estate Market Update: What's Happening Right Now (July 2026)

If you're thinking about buying or selling in Blackfoot, here's the honest, no-fluff breakdown of where the market stands as of this week.

The Short Version

Blackfoot is sitting in balanced-to-slightly-seller-favored territory right now, with 2.5 months of supply on the market. For reference, anything under 3 months typically still favors sellers, while 6 months is considered neutral. Homes are moving, prices are holding steady, and sellers are getting close to full asking price.

What's Currently For Sale

There are 69 active listings in Blackfoot right now, with an average asking price of $467,563. The bulk of that inventory sits in the $200k–$500k range, which lines up with what we're seeing buyers ask for most often — solid, move-in-ready homes in the mid-price tier.

Active listings are averaging 72 days on market. That's not a lightning-fast pace, but it's not sluggish either — it tells me buyers are still being thoughtful, comparing options, and not rushing into overpriced homes.

What's Under Contract

32 homes are currently pending, which works out to a 32% pending ratio — meaning about a third of everything on the market has an accepted offer. Pending homes are averaging $375,678, noticeably lower than the average active listing price. That gap is worth paying attention to: it suggests the homes getting snapped up quickly tend to be priced more realistically, while some of the pricier active listings may be sitting because they're priced ahead of the market.

What's Actually Sold — Last 3 Months

This is where the real story is. Over the past three months, Blackfoot has seen:

  • 84 homes sold
  • 28 homes sold per month, on average
  • 54 days on market, on average, before going under contract
  • 97.3% of original list price achieved at closing

Breaking down the pricing on those closed sales:

  • Original list price averaged $370,242
  • Final list price (after any adjustments) averaged $363,217
  • Final sold price averaged $361,873

That means sellers are netting close to full value — homes are selling for about 97.9% of their final list price and 97.3% of their original ask. Translation: well-priced homes in Blackfoot are still commanding strong offers, but overpricing out of the gate is costing sellers time and, ultimately, money once they adjust.

What This Means If You're Selling

Price it right the first time. The data is pretty clear — homes that list close to true market value are selling faster and closer to full price. Homes that start too high tend to sit, get a price cut, and still end up settling near where they should have started. If you're weighing whether to list this summer, this is a solid window: inventory is still tight enough that well-prepared homes are getting serious attention.

What This Means If You're Buying

You've got a reasonable amount of selection with 69 active homes to choose from, and with 72 days average on market for active listings, you're not necessarily racing the clock on every single house. That said, the homes that are pending sold faster and at lower price points — a sign that the deals are still going to buyers who move decisively when the right home hits the market at the right price.

Bottom Line

Blackfoot remains a market where pricing discipline wins — for both buyers and sellers. If you want to talk through what this means for your specific situation, whether you're planning to sell this year or you're watching for the right opportunity to buy, I'm happy to walk through the numbers with you.

 

Market data as of July 7, 2026, provided by Chris Schmalz Real Estate Group, powered by PLACE, Keller Williams Realty East Idaho.

Posted in Blackfoot, ID
June 29, 2026

8 Great Places to Rest, Recharge, and Heal in Idaho Falls

When people ask me what makes Idaho Falls a great place to live, I usually start with the obvious stuff — the river walk, the mountains an hour in every direction, the kind of neighbors who still wave from the driveway. But after 25 years of helping people put down roots here, I've learned that a community is also defined by how it takes care of its people.

And on that front, Idaho Falls has quietly built a reputation as a place where you can actually slow down and recharge. Whether you're new to town, thinking about a move, or you've been here as long as I have, here are some of the best spots in and around Idaho Falls to rest your body and reset your mind.

Scalar Wellness Center

Tucked into a quiet building downtown on A Street, Scalar Wellness Center is one of the more unique relaxation experiences you'll find anywhere in eastern Idaho. Owners Susan and Evan Goodwin opened the center in late 2023 after their own experience with energy-based relaxation, and it's grown a loyal local following ever since.

Inside, you'll find a 24-unit Energy Enhancement System (EESystem) — a setup of scalar energy fields and bio-photonic light housed in a dark, peaceful room lined with zero-gravity recliners. The idea is simple: you settle in, the lights go low, and you give your nervous system permission to power all the way down. Sessions are offered for relaxation and stress relief, and regulars rave about how calm and rested they feel afterward.

What I appreciate most is the community feel. They run group sessions, sound baths, and even overnight "slumber party" packages, and the place has a genuine sense of belonging to it. It's the kind of small, owner-run business that makes a town feel like home.

260 A St, Idaho Falls · scalarwellnesscenter.com

Xhale Resort & Spa

If you want a full reset without leaving city limits, Xhale Resort & Spa is hard to beat. Set along the river, it pairs a genuinely beautiful property — stream, bridges, fire-and-water features — with hot soaking pools and a full menu of massages and facials.

You can book a single spa service or turn it into an overnight getaway. Couples massages are a popular pick, and the grounds alone are worth the visit. It's the spot I point out-of-town family to when they want to feel pampered.

1421 1st St, Idaho Falls

PLUNJ Idaho Falls

For the folks who'd rather wake their bodies up than wind them down, PLUNJ brings the Nordic sauna-and-cold-plunge tradition to Idaho Falls. You alternate between a hot cedar sauna and a four-foot cold plunge, with tea, honey, and electrolyte drinks to keep you going.

Contrast therapy has caught on fast around here, and PLUNJ does it right — clean, calm, and beautifully designed. People walk out feeling like they could take on anything. Sessions run about an hour, and walk-ins are welcome.

3510 S 25th E, Idaho Falls

Teton Tranquility Massage & Spa

Sometimes you just need good, honest bodywork — and Teton Tranquility has earned a near-perfect reputation for exactly that. Whether you're carrying tension in your neck and shoulders or just want a hot-stone massage to melt the week away, the therapists here are skilled at tailoring the session to what your body actually needs.

The atmosphere is quiet and clean, and they're great about listening before they start. It's a reliable go-to for residents across town.

2270 Teton Plaza, Idaho Falls

Yoga Wellness Connection

Right by the river and walking distance from downtown, Yoga Wellness Connection is one of the most welcoming studios I know of. Owner Nicole has built a space with skylights, warm classes, and a full schedule that runs all year — from heated vinyasa flows to restorative yoga and monthly sound baths.

Beginners and longtime practitioners both feel at home here, and the location is unbeatable. Class on a Saturday morning, then a stroll to the farmers market? That's a good Idaho Falls weekend.

451 River Pkwy, Idaho Falls

Ahhhsome Relaxation

Just over in Ammon, Ahhhsome Relaxation offers a low-key, build-your-own-experience kind of escape. Think robotic massage chairs, red-light therapy beds, foot massage, heat treatments, and a quiet meditation space — all under one roof.

It's an easy, affordable way to decompress after a long day, and a lot of locals treat it like a standing reset button. Membership options make it simple to come back regularly.

939 S 25th E, Ammon

Heise Hot Springs

You can't talk about healing in this part of Idaho without talking about the water. Heise Hot Springs, just up the road in Ririe, has been a family favorite for generations. Naturally heated mineral pools, a big swimming pool, a waterslide, camping, golf, and a pizza spot next door — it's a whole day of low-stress fun about 25 minutes from town.

The recently remodeled pools are a real upgrade, and there's something timeless about soaking in warm mineral water with the South Fork canyon all around you.

5116 E Heise Rd, Ririe

Lava Hot Springs

A little farther out — roughly an hour south — but absolutely worth the drive, Lava Hot Springs is a world-famous set of natural mineral pools tucked into a charming little town. The pools run hot (105°+), the grounds are beautifully kept, and the whole village has a relaxed, get-away-from-it-all feel.

Go on a weekday if you can swing it, and you'll have a quieter soak. It's one of those eastern Idaho treasures that reminds you how good we have it out here.

430 W Main St, Lava Hot Springs


A Place Worth Coming Home To

Here's the thing I keep coming back to after 25 years in this business: the right home is about more than square footage and school districts. It's about the life that surrounds it — the spa you slip away to on a Friday, the hot springs you take the kids to, the studio where you finally exhale.

Idaho Falls has all of that, and more of it every year. If you're thinking about making this corner of Idaho your home — or you just want to talk about what life is really like here — I'd love to hear from you. I've been here a long time, and I still answer the phone.

 

Chris Schmalz · Chris Schmalz Real Estate Group

Posted in Health, News
June 18, 2026

Chubbuck & Pocatello Real Estate Market Update — What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

The Chubbuck and Pocatello real estate market continues to show signs of a moderately balanced, healthy market. Whether you're thinking about buying your first home, upsizing, or listing your current property, understanding the latest data can make a big difference in your decision-making. Here's a breakdown of what the numbers are telling us.

 

A Look at the Numbers

The median sold price in Chubbuck and Pocatello currently sits at $328,950, while active listings are priced at a median of $374,500. This gap between active list prices and sold prices is important — it tells us that buyers have some negotiating room, and that pricing your home strategically from the start is key to attracting strong offers.

With 292 active listings and 121 pending, the market has a pending ratio of 41%. That means roughly 4 out of every 10 active listings are already under contract — a sign of real, consistent demand in our local market.

Days on Market & Inventory

Homes are averaging 45 days on market, which reflects a pace that gives buyers a reasonable window to evaluate options without the frantic rush seen in more competitive markets. The current 3.7-month supply of inventory places the market in a moderately balanced zone — not a full seller's market, but not a buyer's market either.

What This Means for Buyers

If you've been sitting on the sidelines waiting for the "perfect moment," the data suggests now is a reasonable time to move. Inventory is available, competition is moderate, and sellers are open to reasonable offers. With interest rates still in play, locking in sooner rather than later could serve you well.

What This Means for Sellers

The market is on your side — if you price right. With 78 closed sales per month on average, well-priced homes are moving. Listings priced at or slightly below the median tend to generate more interest and multiple offers faster. Overpricing in a market like this can lead to extended days on market and price reductions down the road.

Bottom Line

The Chubbuck and Pocatello market is steady, active, and full of opportunity for both buyers and sellers. The key is working with someone who knows the local data and can help you navigate it with confidence.

 

📞 Ready to make your move? Contact me today to talk strategy — whether you're buying, selling, or just exploring your options. Let's make the numbers work for you.

June 17, 2026

Bonneville County Real Estate Market Update — June 2026

Data provided by Andrea Bacon | Chris Schmalz Real Estate Group | Keller Williams Realty East Idaho


If you've been watching the Bonneville County real estate market, the latest numbers tell a compelling story — one of steady demand, competitive conditions, and a market that continues to favor sellers in the mid-price ranges while offering more breathing room for buyers at the higher end.

Here's a full breakdown of what the numbers are telling us.


Market Snapshot (6-Month Sold Period)

The overall Bonneville County market is showing strong activity with 439 active listings and 231 properties currently under contract, translating to a 34% pending ratio. That means roughly 1 in 3 active homes already has an accepted offer — a sign of healthy buyer demand.

Over the past six months, 753 properties have closed, averaging 126 sales per month. Sold homes are moving in an average of 57 days and closing at 96.6% of their original list price. Months supply of inventory sits at 3.5 months — firmly in seller's market territory.


What the Price Tiers Tell Us

Under $500,000 — The Engine of the Market

This segment drives the bulk of Bonneville County transactions. With 263 active listings and 567 closed sales over six months (~95 per month), homes priced below $500K are the most in-demand. Pending ratios hit 39% and months supply is just 2.8 months. The sweet spot is the $300,000–$400,000 range, where supply drops to a razor-thin 1.9–2.1 months and sellers are seeing nearly 97% of original list price. Buyers in this tier need to be ready to move fast.

$500,000–$1,000,000 — Active but More Balanced

The mid-tier market has 143 active homes and 56 pending, with 176 sold in the past six months. At 4.9 months of supply and a 28% pending ratio, this range gives buyers a bit more time to evaluate. Sellers are still averaging 96.9% of list price at closing, making it far from a buyer's paradise — but conditions are noticeably less heated than the sub-$500K tier.

$1,000,000+ — A Patient Market

Luxury buyers have plenty of options. The $1M+ segment carries 33 active listings but only 10 sales in six months, equating to 19.4 months of supply. The sub-$1.25M segment is particularly challenging, with 25 months of supply, while homes over $1.25M are averaging 197 days on market and selling at just 83.8% of original list price. Sellers in this tier should price thoughtfully from day one.


Average Prices

Active listings are priced at an average of $586,357, while pending homes are averaging $463,239 — a notable gap that reflects the concentration of buyer activity in the more affordable price bands. Closed sales averaged $438,187, coming in at 96.6% of original list price and 98.9% of final list price.


What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

If you're selling: The market is working in your favor, especially under $500,000. Price it right, present it well, and you can expect a relatively quick sale near your asking price. For luxury sellers, patience and strategic pricing are key.

If you're buying: Competition under $400,000 is fierce — get pre-approved, work with an experienced agent, and be prepared to act decisively. Above $700,000, you'll have more inventory to compare and more room to negotiate.


 

Market data as of June 16, 2026. Source: AreaPro | Snake River MLS (SRMLS). Report provided by Andrea Bacon, Chris Schmalz Real Estate Group | Keller Williams Realty East Idaho.