Seniors List Fire-Damaged Spokane Home for Sale
After the Old Trails Fire, the couple chooses to sell their property rather than navigate a lengthy rebuild process.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Residential
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After their home near Rifle Club Road was destroyed by the Old Trails Fire, Alan Basham, 78, and his wife, 70, have decided to sell the property rather than rebuild. The couple, who had lived in the Spokane home for 13 years, are currently renting a duplex while they plan their next move.
Why it matters
The decision highlights the complex personal and financial factors seniors face when assessing whether to rebuild after a disaster. The couple determined that the time required to reconstruct the home was not feasible, compounded by the emotional toll of seeing their neighborhood and memories altered.
The couple resided in their Rifle Club Road home for 13 years before the fire forced their relocation. They are now evaluating offers for the land after determining that rebuilding is not practical for their current stage of life.
The players
Alan Basham
A 78-year-old resident of Spokane who is managing the sale of his fire-damaged property.
The details
The couple's choice to sell stems from a practical assessment of the time and effort involved in starting over. For homeowners facing similar destruction, the process involves weighing the costs of debris removal and site preparation against the market value of the remaining land. The Bashams are prioritizing a simpler path, opting to rent a duplex while waiting for a fair offer that allows them to move forward with a permanent relocation.
Timeline
The couple evacuated their home during the Old Trails Fire in the summer of 2026.
The property was officially listed for sale on October 20, 2026.
Money Landscape
The decision follows the devastating impact of the Old Trails Fire, which continues to reshape the local property market in Spokane. It mirrors a broader trend among older households who choose to simplify their financial footprint after significant disaster-related property damage.
Homeowners managing property loss should consult with a tax professional regarding insurance settlements and potential capital gains implications before finalizing a sale. Reviewing your specific policy and local zoning requirements is a critical step for those considering whether to rebuild or sell.
The takeaway
This case underscores that the decision to sell land after a total loss is often a personal calculation of time and life stage rather than pure real estate valuation. Residents affected by similar events should consider documenting all loss-related costs and speaking with a financial advisor.
Further reading
For more on local housing transitions, visit our Residential section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KXLY kxly.com.
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After a disaster, is it better to rebuild your home or sell and relocate elsewhere?
