The Top 7 Worst Things About Living in Spokane, Washington

  Are you thinking about moving to Spokane, Washington? While it’s a beautiful place with many advantages, like any city, Spokane has its downsides. In this blog, we’ll dive into the top seven worst things about living in Spokane that you should be aware of before making the move. 1. Homelessness One of the most noticeable issues in Spokane is the growing problem of homelessness. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in tent encampments and visible poverty, especially in downtown and certain neighborhoods. While the city is making efforts to address the issue, it's been a tough challenge. Spokane’s City Council is actively working on finding solutions, including smaller resource centers spread across neighborhoods to provide support. However, not everyone is on board with these plans, and it remains a hot-button topic in the community. While homelessness may be a concern, some people moving from other states still find Spokane to be safer than where they came from. 2. Crime Rates Although Spokane is generally a safe place, property crime has been an issue, especially in certain areas. Spokane’s property crime rate is higher than the national average, including vehicle break-ins, theft, and vandalism. Neighborhoods vary in safety, so it’s important to do your research. A great tool to use is the Spokane County Crime Map, which helps you see where crime is more frequent and what types of crime are happening in specific areas. The good news is that property crime in Spokane has decreased by 16% this year, and violent crime is down 6%. 3. Drug Problems Like many cities across the country, Spokane has been significantly impacted by the opioid epidemic and other substance abuse issues. Drugs like methamphetamines and opioids are prevalent, leading to increased crime and public health concerns. You may notice more discarded needles or see people using substances in public places. First responders are responding to an alarming number of overdoses every day, with the number rising each year. While this is part of a national crisis, it’s a reality Spokane is grappling with as well. 4. Smoke from Wildfires Spokane’s location makes it vulnerable to wildfires during the summer, and when fires break out, the air quality can become hazardous. If you have respiratory issues or are sensitive to smoke, this is a serious concern. Some summers are worse than others, with weeks of hazardous air where it’s advised to stay indoors. While this past summer wasn’t too bad, previous years have seen several smoky days where the air was nearly unbreathable. Wildfire season typically hits in late summer, but it’s always something to be prepared for. 5. Housing Market & Lack of New Developments Spokane’s housing market has been hot for a while, and the demand for housing continues to outpace supply. The city is currently about 30,000 homes short of where it needs to be, and while new homes are being built, many feel that the developments aren’t thoughtful or well-planned. Some clients moving to Spokane from other states, like Texas, have noted that the housing developments here don’t offer the same community amenities like parks, pools, or gyms. Most of Spokane’s neighborhoods are older, and the ones that do offer amenities like Eagle Ridge are in high demand, making it challenging for new buyers to find their perfect spot. 6. Political Environment Spokane’s political scene is split almost evenly between conservative and liberal viewpoints, making for a politically diverse and sometimes contentious atmosphere. While the city itself leans more liberal, the surrounding county is more conservative, creating a mix of opinions that can lead to heated debates. This diversity can be a positive for those who appreciate different perspectives, but it can also be challenging if you're used to a more politically homogenous environment. To get a feel for Spokane’s political landscape, you can use resources like voting maps to see how different neighborhoods lean politically. 7. Limited Indoor Activities Spokane is an outdoor lover’s paradise, but if you’re someone who prefers indoor activities, you may find the options a bit limited. While there are museums, indie theaters, and some shopping options, Spokane lacks the bustling indoor recreational scene you’d find in larger cities. If you’re not into hiking, skiing, or water sports, you might have to be more proactive about finding things to do, especially during the long winter months when outdoor activities are less appealing. Every city has its pros and cons, and Spokane is no different. If you're a local, feel free to share what you think are the downsides of living in Spokane in the comments below. If you’re thinking about moving here, what concerns you the most? Spokane may have its challenges, but it’s still a place many people call home, and for good reason. If you're looking for more information about Spokane or want help finding the right neighborhood for you, don’t hesitate to reach out! And if you’re curious about all the fun things Spokane has to offer, check out our next post where we explore activities for every personality type.

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The Most Fun Things to Do in Spokane for Every Personality

  Whether you're into adrenaline-pumping adventures, live music, local shopping, great food, or just a quiet day with a good book, Spokane has something for everyone. In this post, we'll explore the most fun things to do in Spokane, no matter what kind of personality you have. So, if you're thinking about moving here or just looking for something new to do, stick around—this guide has you covered!   For the Outdoors Enthusiasts Spokane is a haven for outdoor lovers. Whether it’s snow sports in the winter or lake activities in the summer, there’s always something to do if you love the great outdoors. Winter Adventures: Mount Spokane and Schweitzer Mountain are perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Mount Spokane is just an hour away, while Schweitzer offers 29,000 acres of prime skiing terrain. For those who prefer snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, Riverside State Park and Mount Spokane have trails for a slower-paced winter adventure. Spring & Fall: As the snow melts, it’s time to hit the trails. Riverside State Park, Dishman Hills, and the Centennial Trail are local favorites for hiking. In the fall, visit Green Bluff to pick apples, navigate corn mazes, and enjoy the crisp autumn weather with a fresh cup of cider—perfect for an Instagram-worthy experience. Summer Fun: Within an hour of Spokane, you'll find 76 lakes, ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or boating. Lake Coeur d'Alene is a favorite for boating enthusiasts, and if you don't own a boat, rental options and subscription models make lake life accessible.   For the Music Lovers If music is your thing, Spokane has plenty to offer, especially in the summer. Riverfront Park Pavilion is a prime venue for outdoor concerts. You can catch everything from local bands to national acts. Spokane also hosts multiple music festivals, including Pig Out in the Park, Volume Music Festival, and the new Boom Jam. For year-round music: The Knitting Factory brings in a mix of national and local bands across various genres. For a more intimate experience, check out the Bing Crosby Theater or The Fox Theater, where you can enjoy jazz, classical music, and more. For vinyl lovers, Spokane boasts several record stores like 4000 Holes and Resurrection Records.   For the Local Shoppers Love finding unique and locally made items? Spokane has you covered. The Garland District is a haven for vintage finds and quirky boutiques. Its retro vibe makes shopping here an experience. Monroe Street District is lined with antique shops and small boutiques where you can find that perfect piece of vintage furniture or a unique knickknack. For more boutique shopping, check out First Avenue Downtown for even more local gems.   For the Foodies & Craft Beer Enthusiasts Spokane’s food and craft beer scene is thriving. One of the best ways to explore the city’s breweries is by bike. Routes like the Centennial Trail connect various breweries, including No-Li Brewhouse, Brick West Brewing, Iron Goat, and Uprise Brewing. If you’re into food trucks, check out Food Truck Fridays or Riverfront Eats during the summer. Spokane’s food truck scene is diverse and delicious. For an unforgettable dining experience, explore restaurants like Wild Sage for farm-to-table dining or Yards Bruncheon for a standout breakfast. Don’t forget to mark your calendar for Spokane Restaurant Week, a perfect time to sample the city's culinary offerings at a discount.   For the Quiet Souls If your idea of a perfect day involves a good book and a quiet space, Spokane has plenty of options for you too. Visit Auntie’s Bookstore or Page 42 to find your next great read. Then, head to a local tea shop like Revival Tea Company or Luminary Tea for a relaxing afternoon. Revival Tea is one of the fastest-growing tea companies in the country, offering everything from traditional teas to boba. For board game lovers, Uncle’s Games is right next to Auntie’s Bookstore, and if you’re into Dungeons & Dragons, check out Natural 20 Brewing Company, a board game-inspired brewery.   For the Film Buffs If indie films and cult classics are more your speed, Spokane’s small theaters won’t disappoint. Magic Lantern Theater and Garland Theater are known for showing offbeat films and classic movies. The intimate setting makes for a unique movie-going experience. Support local theaters by catching a film at one of these Spokane staples. Spokane Truly Has Something for Everyone As you can see, Spokane offers something for every type of personality. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a live music enthusiast, a local shopper, a foodie, or someone who enjoys a quieter day with a good book, Spokane has plenty to keep you entertained.

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Buying a Home in Spokane is About to Change – Here's What You Need to Know

  Buying a home in Spokane is about to undergo some significant changes, and it's likely not in the way you might have expected. Recent legal settlements within the real estate industry are reshaping how homebuyers and sellers navigate the market, and these changes will impact how you purchase or sell a home in Spokane. Let’s dive into what’s new and how it could affect your next move. Recent Legal Settlements Shake Up the Real Estate Industry Earlier this year, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) was involved in a massive lawsuit surrounding transparency in real estate commissions. The result? A $418 million settlement and a series of new rules designed to create a more transparent process for buyers and sellers alike. But what do these new rules mean for you, whether you're buying or selling a home in Spokane? Let’s break it down.   What’s Changing in Real Estate Transactions? The most immediate and impactful change is that real estate agents must now have a signed buyer representation agreement before showing any private properties, including virtual tours. This is a significant shift from the past when agents could show homes without needing any formal agreement upfront. What Is a Buyer Representation Agreement? This agreement outlines how much an agent will be compensated, and here’s where things get interesting. In the past, when a seller listed a home on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), the buyer’s agent’s compensation was also listed, typically covered by the seller. However, under the new rules, this information will no longer be publicly displayed on the MLS. How Does This Impact Buyers and Sellers? For Buyers: You’ll need to have a clear discussion with your agent about their fees before you start house hunting. You’ll need to know exactly what they’re charging and whether that aligns with what the seller is offering, or if you’ll need to cover the difference. Gone are the days of assuming the seller will automatically cover your agent’s commission—everything is now up for negotiation. For Sellers: You’ll need to be strategic in how you compensate buyer agents. While you can still offer compensation as before, it’s no longer automatically displayed on the MLS. You and your listing agent will need to decide whether to publicly offer a commission amount or remain open to negotiations based on the offers you receive from buyer agents. Clearing Up Common Myths With these changes, there has been some confusion. Let’s debunk a few myths floating around about these new real estate rules: Myth #1: Buyers Will Always Pay Out of Pocket for Realtor Commissions While it’s true that buyers may need to cover some agent fees in certain situations, it’s not the norm. Sellers can still choose to offer compensation to buyer agents, but this will now be negotiated rather than automatically displayed upfront. Myth #2: Buyers Must Sign a Representation Agreement for Every Home Viewing It’s easy to assume that with this new rule, you’ll need to sign an agreement for every home you view. However, while a formal agreement is required for private showings, you can still attend open houses or approach the listing agent directly without signing anything. Myth #3: You Can’t Buy or Sell Without a Realtor You’ve always had the option to buy or sell without an agent, and that hasn’t changed. However, with the new rules, there is a greater emphasis on transparency and clear agreements before any deals are made. While it’s possible to go it alone, most buyers and sellers benefit from having professional representation.   How These Changes Affect Spokane Buyers and Sellers If you’re looking to buy a home in Spokane, these new rules mean you need to have upfront conversations with your agent about their fees and the services they’ll provide. The days of assuming the seller will cover everything are over, so make sure you know how these changes might affect your budget. For sellers, it’s more important than ever to be deliberate in how you list your property and compensate buyer agents. Offering competitive compensation to buyer agents can still be a key factor in attracting offers, but you’ll need to discuss these details with your listing agent before listing your home.   The Key Takeaway: Transparency is King These changes are designed to make the homebuying process more transparent, but they also introduce new challenges. Whether you’re buying or selling, the most important thing you can do is ensure you’re having clear, informed conversations with your real estate agent. If your agent isn’t taking the time to walk you through these new rules, you might want to seek further guidance. Need Help Navigating Spokane’s Changing Real Estate Market? If you're thinking about buying or selling a home in Spokane and want to understand how these changes might affect your situation, feel free to reach out. You can schedule a meeting with me, or download our relocation guide for more information on the Spokane area.

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