moving to newport, wa (Spokane, Colville: sales, homes, employment)

[hflynn]

My husband and I (and 2 girls) are considering a move to Newport this summer. We have friends that live in Priest River and plan a visit next month. My husband loves N. Idaho and Wa. I've done alot of research online but was wanting some information from those in the area. We currently live in Ky, but are originally from the West Coast. We want to move closer to home and the mountains. Any and all information would be great!

[StealthRabbit]

Nice town with decent services, but...Jobs are a bit hard to come by in Newport, tho the Forest Service has significant employment there. Timber industry is flat on it's face. If you are gonna drive to Spokane for work, (Or elsewhere in nearby WA) then it might make sense to be in Newport, but I would look to Sandpoint for more employment options. If you are gonna work in ID, I would live there too, as WA property taxes may be sinking all WA home owners in near future. (Sales Tax revenues are WAY down, but they know they can jab us for more property taxes since it is difficult to sell homes now). I pay $33/day or over $12k / year in property taxes. I see the WA average is about $3-$4k, I will bet that grows significantly, very soon. I just have a hungry assessor.

Areas north of Newport along Pend Oreille River are very nice, BUT...be cautious. The river valley can be foggy and cold in the winter, and snowfall is significantly higher on the 'east side of the range' (River Valley) as compared to Colville area. (West side)

[Dendrite]

janb's assessment is spot on. Remember, ID has a state income tax whereas WA does not. State governments need to raise revenue to operate, hence WA does so via property tax and sales tax. WA state is also currently experiencing a huge budget deficit, so their tax structure may increase further to compensate???

When you're visiting next month, compare property taxes for similar homes in WA and ID. You may find it helpful-

Be prepared for more snow and cold in the winter than what you currently get in KY-

Good Luck!

[Dorothy Yeaw]

Newport is a great place to raise you kids. The summers are nice (no humidity), fall is beautiful and we are all so greatful when spring arrives...winters can be long. Be glad to help you find a place

Originally Posted by hflynn

My husband and I (and 2 girls) are considering a move to Newport this summer. We have friends that live in Priest River and plan a visit next month. My husband loves N. Idaho and Wa. I've done alot of research online but was wanting some information from those in the area. We currently live in Ky, but are originally from the West Coast. We want to move closer to home and the mountains. Any and all information would be great!