Meet Vance Lichtenberger: Boise Realtor and Unrivaled Expert in Mid-Century Modern Real Estate

In a city where postwar architecture dots the landscape and preservation-minded buyers are on the rise, one name consistently rises to the top: Vance Lichtenberger. As a lifelong mid-century modern enthusiast and top-producing real estate agent, Vance has carved out a definitive niche in Boise’s competitive real estate market by representing, celebrating, and preserving the city’s rich inventory of mid-century homes.

Boise is home to an estimated 11,000 mid-century properties, and Vance has made it his mission to ensure these homes don’t just sell to anyone, but ensure they’re understood, respected, and stewarded into the hands of buyers who appreciate their design legacy. His expertise came into national focus in 2025 with the record-breaking sale of the Sundial House, a 1951 passive-solar masterpiece that captured national headlines. Designed by Louis F. Pacheco, the home was named by Vance himself after a single walk-through revealed how its orientation and architectural form perfectly tracked the arc of the sun. The nickname stuck, and so did Vance’s reputation as the city’s most knowledgeable mid-century agent.

Vance was born and raised in the City of Trees and has dedicated his career to preserving Boise’s architectural heritage.

A Life Devoted to Mid-Century Preservation

Vance Lichtenberger does so much more than sell mid-century homes—he inhabits the lifestyle, the legacy, and the architecture with unmatched dedication. A longtime resident of Boise’s Winstead Park neighborhood, he lives in and lovingly maintains a 1957 mid-century residence of his own. His daily life is immersed in the details that define this iconic era: low-slung rooflines, floor-to-ceiling windows, and the kind of material authenticity that just can't be faked. His knowledge is experiential, shaped by years of walking his own street, talking to original homeowners, and studying the craftsmanship firsthand.

That deep, personal connection to Boise’s architectural fabric was on full display in his representation of the now-famous Sundial House. This stunning 1951 architectural landmark recently sold for over $2 million, making it the highest-priced mid-century modern home sale without acreage in Boise’s history. From coining the home’s nickname during his very first walkthrough to positioning it as a national-caliber design specimen, Vance's understanding of the home's architectural value helped attract the right buyers before the first open house even occurred. The record-breaking sale underscores his ability to translate architectural nuance into market power.

Whether it’s original terrazzo floors, clerestory windows, post-and-beam construction, or intact vintage kitchens, Vance can identify the details that matter and knows how to protect them. With a preservationist’s mindset and a strategist’s eye, he guides sellers and buyers alike through the process of honoring mid-century design while navigating the modern market. For Vance, every listing is a chapter in the story of Boise’s mid-century legacy.

Learn how Vance and his colleague and long-time friend Jed Splittgerber orchestrated the sale of the Sundial House, Boise’s most expensive mid-century modern home. From coining its iconic name to securing its sale before the first open house, this landmark listing showcases the power of architectural expertise and strategic marketing.

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Lush gardens and mature trees frame the Sundial House’s iconic floor-to-ceiling windows, blurring the boundary between indoor serenity and outdoor splendor—a defining hallmark of mid-century modern design. Photos courtesy of Abby Blossom.

Mid-Century Homes by Anthology: Where Vance Found His People

Vance is a leading agent with Mid-Century Homes by Anthology, the top real estate team in the Treasure Valley, specializing in mid-century architecture. Founded by TJ and Rhonda Pierce, the firm has become the local authority on Boise’s MCM housing stock. Vance was the first long-term agent brought onto the team, and his role has been central to expanding its reach and reputation.

Now, as part of a collaborative team of specialists, Vance continues to champion thoughtful restoration, historical context, and excellent design in every listing he touches. His work at Anthology blends strategic market insight with an artist’s eye, helping sellers achieve top-dollar for significant homes and connecting buyers with properties that speak to their values and lifestyle.

The Mid-Century Homes by Anthology team, led by founders TJ and Rhonda Pierce, brings together Boise’s foremost experts in mid-century real estate. Pictured here with Vance Lichtenberger (second from right), the team shares a unified mission: to protect, celebrate, and elevate Boise’s architectural legacy.

A Straight Shooter in a Saturated Market

In an industry known for flash, Vance stands out for his substance. He’s known for clear communication, transparent guidance, and genuine care for his clients’ best interests. That authenticity, paired with deep market knowledge and unmatched MCM fluency, has made him one of the most trusted names in Boise real estate.

From historic ranch homes in the Central Bench to atomic-era gems in the East End, Vance brings a sense of mission to every transaction. He isn’t just selling homes—he’s preserving an architectural legacy and building a community of fellow mid-century modern enthusiasts along the way. If you’re looking for a realtor who gets it and gets results, Vance Lichtenberger is Boise’s go-to name.

Lush, mature landscaping surrounds the primary bedroom and living spaces of one of Boise’s most iconic mid-century modern homes, sold by Lichtenberger in June 2025. Known for his straightforward, mission-driven approach, Vance pairs market savvy with a preservationist’s eye, helping clients recognize the value of architectural homes like this true mid-century gem.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying and Selling Mid-Century Homes in Boise, Idaho

Q. What do you love most about Boise?

A. "I was born and raised here and I’m a proud Bronco through and through. One of the things I love most about Boise is its size. It's big enough to support a thriving economy but small enough to feel connected. Our city genuinely values and uplifts small businesses, which means we have a strong sense of community. And, of course, I appreciate the slower pace of life that sets Boise apart from the hustle of larger metro areas."

Q. What are your favorite mid-century neighborhoods and why?

A. "Winstead Park takes the top spot for me. It’s got that perfect balance, which means manageable lot sizes, a peaceful vibe, and just the right amount of growth to keep things fresh without losing its mid-century character. It’s the kind of neighborhood that feels like home the second you step in.

The Highlands comes in second. The architecture there is next-level, and the views? Unreal. If you’re the type who loves waking up to scenery that makes you want to get outside and explore, this is your spot.

Third has got to be Hillcrest, easily one of Boise’s most active neighborhoods. It’s perfect for anyone who loves walkable streets, outdoor spaces, and a true sense of community. Whether you’re running, biking, or just out enjoying the fresh air, Hillcrest delivers."

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Reach Out to Vance: Boise's Trusted Mid-Century Real Estate Expert

Whether you're hunting for the perfect post-and-beam in the Bench or ready to list your mid-century gem in the North End, Vance Lichtenberger brings unmatched expertise, market strategy, and architectural fluency to every transaction. As one of Boise’s top agents specializing in mid-century modern real estate, Vance helps buyers discover architecturally significant homes and ensures sellers get top value from design-conscious buyers who appreciate their property’s true worth.

• Website: https://www.vancelichtenberger.com/

• Brokerage: https://mid-centuryhomes.com/

• Location: 3130 W. State St., Boise, Idaho

• Phone: (208) 871-7791

For more information, visit Vance's website at www.vancelichtenberger.com. With Vance as your agent, you're not just working with a realtor; you're partnering with a team of mid-century enthusiasts who are just as dedicated to making your mid-century dreams come true as you are.