Steve Battenschlag

My wife, Karen, and I moved to Sandpoint, Idaho in 1993. We sold our property management and development business in the San Francisco Bay Area, bought a motor home, loaded up our three dogs, and went on the road to find the perfect small town in America! Our top priorities included beaches, mountains, countryside, low or no pollution, business, educational, and cultural opportunities. Armed with stacks of Sunset and Country magazines, dreaming of the good life, we enjoyed many days discussing and evaluating where we would make our new home. We knew we wanted land, but how much? As a native Californian, 5 acres seemed plenty to me, Karen, a Missouri girl, wanted 100! We traveled for over a year, enjoying our freedom, taking our time to consider many beautiful places throughout the west, but when we drove over the Long Bridge into Sandpoint, we knew this was home! Not only were the mountains and lakes beautiful, the town itself was full of character, charm, and warm, friendly folks. Having always loved the ocean and the mountains, Sandpoint offered the best of both worlds with beautiful Lake Pend Oreille and the Selkirk and Cabinet mountain ranges. Sandpoint had it all, including, when we wanted a big city, Spokane (Washington), just 1 1/2 hours away. Initially we thought we would purchase or start a new business, however fate had a different idea and I went to work for the Lake Pend Oreille School District. During my 11 years with the school district I served as their Business Manager, Chief Administrative Officer and Treasurer to the Board of Trustees. I worked hard to improve and provide better educational opportunities and facilities to the children and patrons of our community. This invaluable experience gave me the chance to be an active participant in mapping the future of Bonner County. Additionally, I served as president of the Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, and on the Board of Directors for the Ponderay Community Development Corporation. I believe that the responsible planning of our growth while preserving our quality of life is of paramount importance Retiring from the school district in 2004, I knew my knowledge and love of the area would help others with the challenges and decisions that must be made in realizing their dreams. Whether you are looking for a permanent or vacation home, business, land, or investment opportunity, I pledge to work hard for you as we work together to make your dreams come true, and achieve that while having fun and enjoying the process. Let me help you explore this wonderful country. By the way, we ended up with 10.5 acres, an occasional moose and other wildlife that share our property. Any regrets? No, it is truly a wonderful life, let me help you find yours! Looking forward to hearing from you. Steve