Blog | David Morris Group

Relocation Guide: The Ultimate Moving Checklist

June 29, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

Moving takes a lot of planning and preparation. Starting early can save you from any added stress farther down the line. The best tip we can give you is to start sooner than you think you need to and use this ultimate moving checklist as a guideline to keep you on track for the big move.

Six to Eight Weeks Before Moving:

Compile a list of everything you want to move to your new home.
Research moving companies and request moving quotes.
Go through your belongings and discard anything you no longer use/need. A yard sale or donation center are great ways to get rid of some items.
Gather moving boxes and packing materials for your move. Use a Sharpie to label boxes.
Contact insurance companies (life, health, fire, auto, etc.) to inform them of your new address.
If you’re moving for work, you may be eligible for moving expenses. Contact your HR department for more information.
Contact the new school district for information on the registration process and begin gathering the necessary documents needed to send to the school.

Four Weeks Before Moving:

Contact utility companies to either set a turnoff or transfer date. If moving out of state, contact the new utility company to designate a turn on date.
Collect your medical records. Contact all of your doctors to obtain these documents for your records and have them transferred to a new medical facility near your new home.
Look in your pantry, fridge, and freezer and plan meals around the food you currently have, so you have less food to throw out or get rid of when you move.
High-end jewelry and valuables should be transferred to a safety deposit box during your move.

One to Three Weeks Before Moving:

Create an itinerary for moving day to ensure you are at the house when the movers arrive. Plan to have kids and pets stay with a family friend/relative.
Change your address with USPS.
Change your address with any bank accounts and credit cards.
Moving long distance? Be sure to have your vehicles serviced and oil changed before the long trip.
Cancel home services like the cleaning company, lawn services, pool services, etc.
Wrap up the majority of the packing. Just leave out the essentials to be packed last minute.
Collect items you will need for traveling and set them aside. Doing this will ensure you have everything you need until the moving company arrives at the new house.
Give your furniture a once-over and jot down any scratches and dents; that way, you can compare notes with the movers at the end of your partnership. You may also want to take pictures of the larger furniture pieces/valuable items, just in case you need to submit a claim for any damaged or missing items after the move.
Prepare a floor plan to designate where the furniture will go ahead of time. This will help the movers on move-in day.

Moving Day:

Do a walk-through to make sure no items are left behind.
Confirm your new address with the moving company and double-check that they have the correct contact information.
Move out! Turn off all lights and utilities, make sure all windows and doors are locked, and notify your real estate agent you have left the property.

If you need more tips to make moving easier or if you’re curious about the Reno area, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Where to Enjoy a Cold Treat This Summer

June 25, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno-Sparks Businesses /by Shauna Morris

With Tahoe 45 minutes away, you may not be able to slip away for a dip in the cool waters every time you feel a trickle of sweat drip down your neck this summer, but there are other ways to beat the heat! One of the best ways to cool off is to enjoy a little ice cream or bite into a cold treat this summer, and we have the scoop on where you should visit.

Bibo Freddo Gelato

Bibo Freddo Gelato is a locally owned small-batch gelato and sorbetto shop. There are an array of flavors to choose from, with classic and unique combos that appeal to everyone. Bart’s Revenge is a fan favorite!

Black Rock Dessert

If you love Icycle Creamery, you’ll love Black Rock Dessert. As a new extension of Icecycle Creamery, they continue to handcraft ice cream and desserts using local products. Their ice cream, shakes, and sundaes are worth savoring all through summer.

Honey Treat Yogurt

Since 1982, Honey Treat Yogurt has been serving delicious non-fat, no sugar added, low carb, gluten-free, non-dairy frozen yogurt. There are over 35 toppings to make your dessert special.

KRĒM

Bringing you cake and soft serve, KRĒM is the best of both worlds! This soft serve shop adds a new twist by ditching the cone and replacing it with cake. The flavors are unique and always changing.

Paleteria del Angel

Located in Sparks, Paleteria del Angel serves some of the freshest and best-tasting handmade ice cream pops with traditional Mexican flavors and flair.

Rita’s Italian Ice and Frozen Custard

The famous Italian ice is a sweet frozen treat that is made fresh daily in small batches, just like their frozen custards. Visit Rita’s Italian Ice and Frozen Custard for a hand-scooped treat.

Rolled Mountain Creamery

Inspired by the street vendors of Thailand, Rolled Mountain Creamery offers made-to-order ice cream rolls, which is both fun to watch and delicious to eat.

The Arch Society

Known as Reno’s one and only dessert bar, The Arch Society specializes in cocktails, milkshakes, desserts, and ice cream perfections. Be sure to check out the monthly specials as well as the specials running Tuesday through Friday.

Reno is a sweet place to dine and an even sweeter place to live! Enjoy a few cold treats this summer, and if you need help navigating the hot Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to be your guide. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

Important Terms to Know When Selling a Home

June 21, 2021/in Reality of Real Estate, Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

Real estate agents often have their own language. Learn the important terms to know when selling a home and having discussions with agents, brokerages, and lenders.

Affidavit – A statement a buyer or a seller signs to state that certain information is accurate.
Appreciation – An increase in a property’s value.
Asking Price – The seller’s value and pricing of the property.
Assessed Value – The value of the property that is decided by an assessor.
Capital Expenditure – An improvement to a property that has a lifespan and can increase the property’s value.
Closing Costs – The costs, including title insurance, legal fees, and survey, to finish transferring a property’s ownership.
Commission – The money that is given to a real estate agent for his or her association with selling the property.
Comparative Market Analysis – A method to evaluate a property by comparing it to similar homes in the area that were recently sold or have recently entered the market.
Counter Offer – A new offer that is a response to an offer that was not accepted.
Curb Appeal – The attractiveness of a property and its surroundings when viewed from the street. Landscaping, the front entrance, and the condition of the paint or siding are the biggest factors in curb appeal.
Days on Market – The total number of days a property has been available for sale.
Depreciation – A decrease in a property’s value.
Escrow – A process in which a third party takes care of funds and documents for a buyer and/or seller.
Home Inspection – An inspection of the property to check for factors like the quality and safety of the property.
Lien – A legal claim of ownership on a home’s title and security for money owed.
Market Value – An amount that a buyer would be willing to pay for the property and an estimated price based on the real estate market.
Mitigation – Alterations and improvements to a property.
Offer – A proposal to buy a property with a certain price and on certain terms.
Open House – The time in which a property is available for interested buyers to view.
Property Survey – A survey to understand a property’s boundaries.
Sales Contract – A contract between the buyer and seller of a property that provides details such as what a purchase consists of and the closing costs for the property.
Staging – Placing furniture and accessories within a house to prepare it for a sale.
Title – The evidence that shows the legal right of a person to own a property.
Under Contract – A real estate property that currently has been accepted in a contract by a seller and a buyer.
Walk-through – The last property inspection to make sure items in a purchase agreement, like repairs and property electrical systems, are working properly.
Zoning Laws – The local laws that regulate how a land is used in certain zones with factors that include the size of a lot and the way a building is used.

There are a variety of terms that you’re likely to hear as you begin the home selling process. If you have questions about buying or selling a home or you simply need a real estate translator, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to be your guide. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

Diverse Dwellings in Damonte Ranch

June 14, 2021/in Reno Neighborhoods /by Shauna Morris

Located in Southeast Reno lies a diverse, large suburban community. Damonte Ranch has amenities and homes that offer something for everyone, no matter the age and lifestyle of the residents. Let’s take a quick tour of what makes Damonte Ranch such a noteworthy and loveable Reno neighborhood.

Homes

As a master-planned community, Damonte Ranch offers an incredibly popular selection of new homes, single-family homes, townhomes, and condos. The streets are lined with wide paths that you can find families walking along in the afternoon and people biking and jogging to soak up the nearly 300 days of sunshine.

Amenities

Damonte Ranch is an involved community where holidays are made even more special with family-friendly events and activities, and public parks host youth soccer games and baseball games.

For those looking for an easy commute to work, Renown, IGT, NV Energy, and Microsoft are just a five-minute drive away. Damonte Ranch is also near everything you may need. The Summit Reno is right outside your door, giving you several shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

If you need to venture outside of the suburbs, downtown Reno and Carson City are just a 20-minute drive. To enjoy all of the activities and amenities located in North Lake Tahoe, it’s just a 45-minute drive for Damonte Ranch residents.

Schools

Schools serving the students in Damonte Ranch include Brown Elementary School, Depoali Middle School, and Damonte Ranch High School — all a part of the Washoe County School District.

There are lots of perks that come with living in Damonte Ranch. With a wide range of amenities, wonderful schools, and homes of all sizes and styles, Damonte Ranch is a community designed to give you a fun, close-knit, and luxurious lifestyle. If you’re curious about the community and looking for more information on Damonte Ranch, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to help you begin your home search. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

Relocation Guide: Tips to Make Moving with Kids Easier

June 12, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

Moving is hard, especially with children. If you’re thinking about making a move, consider taking a look at these helpful tips to make the transition smooth and easy for your children and you.

Talk to your kids about the move

The most effective way to prepare your children for an upcoming move is to sit them down and have an open discussion about it. As soon as you know you are moving, let your kids know and give them as much information as possible. Answer any questions they may have as truthfully as possible and be open to both positive and negative reactions.

Involve your kids in the planning

Depending on their age, it can be extremely effective to engage your children in the house-hunting process or the search for a new school. Planning their room in the new house is also a great starting point. Including them in the planning will give your children a sense of control and make them feel like their opinion and feelings are recognized.

Start months earlier than you think is reasonable

Moving with children takes twice as long, and it’s not just because you have more stuff to pack. If you think it will take a month to pack up your home, double it – you’ll be glad you did when you aren’t running around the house the week before the move in a panic.

Moving with toddlers and preschoolers

Moving with kids under the age of six may be easier as their age makes it difficult for them to understand change. To make the transition as smooth as possible for toddlers and preschoolers, try the following:

Be clear and concise. Don’t overcomplicate the situation.
Pack up the house while they’re asleep, especially their toys! Why? Chances are, while you’re packing, they will be unpacking. Leave one box of toys unpacked for them to play with until the last day.
Take a field trip to the new house (if it is vacant) and bring over a few of their toys or other items that comfort them.
Set up your toddler’s new room similar to their old one.
Keep other changes to a minimum.
Have your kid(s) stay with a family member, friend, or babysitter on moving day.

Moving with grade school kids

When is the best time of year to move with grade school kids? Two options are the most popular: summer and mid-year. Generally, it is easier to move elementary-age kids. However, they may still need some convincing and help throughout the move. Teenagers, on the other hand, usually rebel against moving homes and almost always rebel against moving school districts. To combat their attitude, ensure they know that you value their opinion and explain to them why you feel like this move is best for the family.

Gather information about the new school and transfer process

What school will your kids now be attending? Once you’ve closed on the new home, determine what information you need to transfer your kids. Information may include a recent report card or transcript, birth certificate, and medical records. It may also be in your best interest to visit the new school before the move.

After moving day

Get your kids situated in the new home before you focus on the rest of the house. To ensure a smooth transition, try to maintain a regular schedule to show your children that not everything has changed!

If you have questions about relocating or if you’re curious about the Reno area, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Relaxing in Reno: Where to Have a Spa Day

June 7, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno Events and Activities, Reno-Sparks Businesses /by Shauna Morris

With the Sierra Nevada mountains surrounding the city, Reno has some of the most beautiful scenery. Taking in the sights is but one of the ways you can relax and unwind in the city. There are also a variety of luxury spas to bring peace to your mind, body, and soul. Check out where to have a spa day in Reno.

The Refuge Spa

Pamper yourself by choosing from the various body scrubs, body wraps, couple’s massages, eye treatments, facials, hair and scalp treatments, lip treatments, paraffin hand treatments, and therapy baths at The Refuge Spa at the Renaissance Hotel.

Spa Atlantis

Located inside the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, Spa Atlantis has been awarded Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star designation for six consecutive years. There are various amenities and treatments to choose from. You can relax in one of the lounges, sit in the pool, enjoy a massage, get a facial, have a body wrap or scrub, and more!

Spa at Grand Sierra Resort and Casino

The Spa at Grand Sierra Resort and Casino blends rich minerals and botanicals to deliver a relaxing experience during the various signature massage and skincare rituals offered. There are also some great salon services for a full day of self-care.

The Spa at Silver Legacy

Soothe your soul at The Spa at Silver Legacy. The facility features 12 treatment rooms for massages, wraps, scrubs, and skincare; three relaxation lounges with appropriate social distancing; seven hydrotherapy soaking tubs with spa service only; and a full-service salon.

Spa Toscana

Spa Toscana, located inside Peppermill Reno, was rated the third-best hotel spa in the country by USA TODAY 10 Best. Their facilities include an indoor pool, saunas, steam rooms, cold plunges, showers, locker rooms, Himalayan salt room, and a relaxation room.

Take a little time for yourself and enjoy a few of the services, amenities, and treatments from the luxury spas and resorts around Reno. For more information on what we love about calling Reno home and the best places to visit, contact the David Morris Group. Our expertise is unparalleled, and we’re happy to be your guides.

Relocation Guide: BBB Accredited Movers in the Reno Area

May 29, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information, Reno-Sparks Businesses /by Shauna Morris

There comes a time where we all have to move, and it’s likely that you won’t be able to move all of your belongings on your own. Knowing who to trust to transport all of your beloved possessions from one home to another is imperative. That’s why we’ve put together this list of Better Business Bureau accredited movers in the Reno area.

All The Right Moves, LLP

235 W Pueblo St | Reno
(775) 331-2744
Website

Carneys Full Service Movers

1749 Victorian Ave Apt A | Sparks
(775) 358-3900
Website

Carson Valley Movers

1191 Service Dr | Gardnerville
(775) 883-3322
Website

O’Brien’s Moving and Storage, Inc.

2277 Glendale Ave | Sparks
(775) 359-6683
Website

Two Men and a Truck of Reno Nevada

1085 W Huffaker Ln | Reno
(775) 525-5973
Website

Before selecting a moving company, be sure to vet potential movers. It can save you a lot of stress, hassle, and money in the long run. Before choosing a moving company, complete these steps:

Get referrals – Ask real estate agents, family, friends, and coworkers if they can recommend any movers or even if they know who to avoid working with.
Check licensing, insurance, and accreditation – Check that movers have all of the necessary documents and paperwork to move your belongings.
Read reviews and check their track record – One of the best ways to know if a moving company is trusted is to check out their reputation. See what others have to say about working with the company.
Gather quotes – Make sure you’re getting a quality mover for the best price by gathering quotes from at least three trusted companies before deciding which one to go with. Leveraging what others are charging may net you an even better deal.

Moving can be a stressful time, so it’s important to choose companies and individuals that can make it a much easier transition. If you have questions about relocating or if you’re curious about the Reno area, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Questions to Ask Before Downsizing

May 25, 2021/in Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

Downsizing to a smaller home can be a great solution for many, but it can also cause problems if you don’t have the right expectations and game plan. Whether you’re hoping to downsize to build a nest egg or you believe you don’t need the space now that your kids have left home, it’s important to think through every scenario and make an informed decision. Be sure to ask yourself these questions before downsizing!

Is there a financial benefit to downsizing?

A smaller home doesn’t always mean more money in your wallet. The costs of things like a new mortgage, property taxes, insurance, repairs, HOA fees, and upgrades of the new home, can make it more costly to downsize. Take a deep look at your finances and compare what the upfront costs will be as well as the long-term costs to see if there’s a financial benefit to downsizing.

Are you excited about having less space or does it make you nervous?

The benefits of a smaller home usually come with less maintenance and cleaning. If you’re excited about having less home to take care of and not worried about having enough space for guests or parties, you’re likely ready to downsize.

What are you going to do with your stuff?

A larger home needs more furniture and even larger furniture to take up space. There’s also room to keep and collect more than you need. Think about what you need to keep rather than what you can get rid of. It’ll help you determine if downsizing is feasible for you.

Can you look past square footage and focus on floorplans?

A smaller home may mean less square footage, but it doesn’t have to mean less space. The right floorplan that maximizes the space well can feel larger than your current home. Don’t ignore a home based on square footage alone. Think about how you could place furniture, where you could add more space to make it comfortable for you and your needs.

Can you see yourself in a smaller home?

This is a question that will likely only be answered when you start to tour homes. When you see what smaller homes offer, you’ll be able to compare what you have currently with what’s on the market and see if you can make the sacrifices that you’ll need to make to move into a smaller home.

If you have questions about downsizing your home or about the current Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to be your real estate resource!

Home Maintenance Tasks to Tackle Over the Weekend

May 18, 2021/in Lifestyle /by Shauna Morris

Summer is the season of fun. With more time spent outdoors and enjoying the company of friends and family, it’s important to make sure your home is in tip-top shape. If you’re looking to make your home the perfect paradise during the warmer months, start with these home maintenance tasks to tackle over the weekend!

Replace outdoor lighting

Check that porch lights, landscape lights, and motion-sensor lights are all in working order. Replace any bulbs or schedule repairs for anything that’s not working. You can also add some twinkly lights to your backyard for a true outdoor retreat.

Inspect kitchen and bath fixtures

In order to prevent costly water damage and repairs, keep an eye on kitchen and bath fixtures. Regrout and recaulk areas around counters and tile that are in need of a refresh and have any slow leaks repaired immediately.

Check all alarms and detectors

The U.S. Fire Administration recommends that smoke alarms are tested at least once a month and replaced every 10 years. Take care to test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and other security measures you have in place to make sure everything is in working order.

Prep the grill

Deep cleaning the grill before you start the summer BBQ season will keep your grill working more efficiently. Clean the grates and interior with a grill brush, but don’t neglect the exterior. Warm, soapy water will have it shining and ready to serve up burgers and hot dogs all summer long.

Don’t neglect the walls of your home

Walls can collect dust as much as the rest of the surfaces in your home can. Use a dusting attachment on your vacuum or an electrostatic duster to remove dust from walls, then touch up paint as needed on interior walls and trim.

Check what’s on your shelves

Dust the items on your shelves that have collected a thin layer of dust since your last cleaning session. For areas with a thicker layer of dust, use warm, soapy water to wash off the grime, rinse, and let dry.

Prepare bedrooms for the new season

Swap out heavier bedding for lighter blankets, quilts, and sheets to help you keep cool in the warmer months. Rotate the mattresses on all beds and flip over if possible, to make sure the bed wears evenly.

Savor the summer season in style and tackle a few projects each weekend to keep your home ready for guests and fun! If you’re curious about what home maintenance tasks you should add to your to-do list each month and at the start of each season, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about maintaining a home, buying a home, or selling a home.

Relocation Guide: Who to Notify of Your Move

May 12, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

When relocating, it’s essential to put in a change of address and notify important businesses and individuals of your move so you continue to receive important mail. In order to avoid potential hassles like missed bills or service lapses, follow this change of address checklist to see who you need to alert about your new home.

Post Office
Government Services
- IRS
- Passport Office
- Veterans Affairs
- Unemployment Office
Utility Companies
- Phone services (cellular and landline)
- Electric
- Heating (gas, oil, propane, or other fuels)
- Water (water delivery and treatment)
- Sewer
- Waste disposal
- Internet (landline, wi-fi, and satellite)
- Television (cable or satellite TV)
Jobs
- Notify the Human Resources department
- Update your personal marketing materials (business cards, websites, resumes)
- Employment agencies (temp agencies and recruiters)
- Professional memberships (licensing and certification boards)
- Past employers (for W-2’s)
Financial Institutions
- Banks and credit unions
- Credit card companies (including department store cards)
- Lenders (mortgage, home equity, auto, student loan)
- Insurance companies (health, renters, auto, home, medical, dental, disability, life)
- Retirement (pension plans, $401K, retirement accounts, Social Security, Veterans Affairs)
- Investments (investment agencies and brokers)
Health
- Physicians (doctors, dentists, optometrists, etc.)
- Pharmacies
- Health insurers (HMOs, DMOs, agencies, and brokers)
Car
- Auto insurers (insurance agencies and brokers)
- Auto lenders (car dealership, bank, or loan)
- Department of Motor Vehicles (changing your vehicle registration and license)
- Membership clubs (AAA, etc.)
- Parking permits
- Warranty
- Toll pass
Subscription Services
- Newspapers
- Magazines (Note: USPS will only forward magazine subscriptions for two months)
- Movie subscriptions (streaming services)
- Book and music clubs
- Monthly/quarter subscription boxes (beauty boxes, fashion boxes, wine clubs, etc.)
Memberships, Clubs, and Organizations
- House of worship (churches, synagogues, mosques)
- Health clubs
- Community groups (PTA, neighborhood associations, civic clubs)
- Children’s extracurricular activities (dance, music, sports, etc.)
- Social clubs and community centers
Service Providers
- House cleaning services
- Delivery services
- Accountants
- Childcare (day-care center, babysitters)
- Lawn care services
- Veterinarian (including pet groomer, pet sitters, and microchip service)
- Pool services
- Lawyers
Other
- Register to vote!
- Children’s schools
Friends and Family

Changing your address takes time, but it’s better to take care of it sooner rather than later, so you don’t have any missing mail. If you have questions about relocating or if you’re curious about the Reno area, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!