Blog | David Morris Group

Where To Go Rock Climbing In Reno-Tahoe

The city of Reno continues to climb the ranks as one of the best mid-size cities in the country for various reasons, but it’s also a great place to fall in love with rock climbing. With the tallest rock climbing wall in the world located in the heart of downtown Reno, our community is home to some of the best rock climbing destinations in the country. Not sure where to go rock climbing in the Reno-Tahoe area? Start with:

Base Camp at Whitney Peak

The 164 foot climbing wall on the side of the Whitney Peak hotel is not only the tallest rock climbing wall in the world, but it also offers some of the best views as well. Inside, you’ll also find an awesome bouldering park.

Big Chief

If you find yourself in the North Lake Tahoe area, be sure to stop in to check out Big Chief. With walls reaching over 250 feet, several short and well-bolted sport climbs, and more than 50 routes, it’s a great place for all levels of climbers.

Eagle Creek Canyon

Near Emerald Bay, you’ll find two great climbing spots in Eagle Creek Canyon. Mayhem Cove is a great spot for intermediate to advanced climbers, while the Ninety Foot Wall is a popular area for beginners as it offers an amazing view of Lake Tahoe.

Lover’s Leap

With more 150 established climbing routes, Lover’s Leap is a popular climbing spot. Scale a 600-foot chunk of granite and admire the beauty of being surrounded by towering pine trees. Lover’s Leap offers some of the best rock climbing around Lake Tahoe and there are even guided rock climbing and educational courses for all ages and abilities.

Mesa Rim Climbing Center

As the largest rock climbing gym in Reno, the Mesa Rim Climbing Center offers more than 24,000 square feet of climbing space. It’s a great place to build your skills and comfort level with climbing. The gym also features yoga and fitness area, locker rooms, a sauna, community areas, and a variety of classes.

If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, Reno is the best place to call home. From hundreds of trails to go hiking and biking, cliffs to climb, and beautiful waters to paddle through, there are all kinds of ways to explore the Biggest Little City and the surrounding areas. For more information on what we love about calling Reno home, contact the David Morris Group. Our expertise is unparalleled, and we’re happy to be your guide through the city.

Veteran Programs in Reno

Reno has been home to an eclectic and close-knit community for many years, and we’re proud to have so many connections to the military. With so many veterans in the area, the city has some great programs to keep our service members connected. The veteran programs in Reno include:

Fit But Not Forgotten

The City of Reno hosts weekly community-based fitness classes in the facility weight room. This program covers equipment, fitness level assessment, strength development techniques, fitness goal discussion, endurance and flexibility. Upon completion of four classes, participants will be eligible for a free all-inclusive one-year facility membership. For more information on the Fit But Not Forgotten program, click here.

Military Sports Camp

The City of Reno will host 15 disabled veterans and injured service members with their spouse/
guest for a multi-day event taking place from September 14-18. There is no cost to military servicemen or women and their guest. Registration preferences will be given to Nevada Service Members and residents. For more information on Military Sports Camp, click here.

Military to the Mountains

22 injured veterans are trained for nine weeks at the Evelyn Mount Northeast Community Center and Double Diamond Athletic Club, preparing them for a week of skiing at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows in California each year. The veterans are instructed by Achieve Tahoe adaptive ski program. For more information about the previous year’s program, click here.

Project HERO City of Reno

This national nonprofit organization is dedicated to helping veterans and first responders affected by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Project HERO (Healing Exercise Rehabilitation Opportunity) provides training and supports cycling programs at military hospitals, Army Transition Units, Marine Wounded Warrior Units and Veterans Affairs locations to help healing heroes. For more information on Project HERO’s impact, click here.

These veteran programs are in addition to the generous number of athletic, social, and recreational programs and activities offered by the City of Reno. For more information on what we love about calling Reno home, contact the David Morris Group. Our expertise is unparalleled, and we’re happy to be your guides.

Relocation Guide: Schools in the Reno-Sparks Area

April 26, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

When relocating, one of the most important steps to take involves researching schools and school districts. Even if you don’t have school-aged children in your household, school rankings can play a big role in the resale value of homes. Know what public and private school options are in the areas you’re thinking about moving to.

The Reno-Sparks area is served by schools in the Washoe County School District, which covers nearly 100 schools in Northern Nevada. Those schools include:

Elementary Schools:

Middle Schools:

High Schools:

If you’re curious about what schools students are zoned for in the neighborhoods you love in the Reno-Sparks area, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Kayaking in Northern Nevada

April 22, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno Events and Activities /by Shauna Morris

There’s nothing better than spending the summer months out on the water. Reno’s location makes water sports easy as there’s no shortage of places to go to hit the water in Northern Nevada. Check out some of the best places to go kayaking in the area.

Kayaking Destinations:

Truckee River Whitewater Park – Located in downtown Reno, this whitewater park has 11 drop pools and tons of features that draw in experienced kayakers every year. It’s even the destination for the Reno River Festival.
Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park – Sand Harbor has secluded beaches and eye-catching rock formations that give you some really amazing views while kayaking. They also offer some great places to rest if you get tired or are in need of a picnicking spot.
Zephyr Cove – As a popular Tahoe beach spot, Zephyr is a great place to go kayaking if you also plan to meet up with friends and family for a sunny beach day.
Kings Beach – With various launch areas, Kings Beach is a pretty easy trek to make with all of your gear. It’s also a great place to go if you’re new to kayaking or only have a limited time to be on the water.
D.L Bliss State Park – This is where you’ll get to experience the bright blue and turquoise water that is so often pictured in Lake Tahoe. The water is also pretty calm, so it’s an easy place to paddle along, but it gives you access to choppier water if you’re an experienced kayaker looking to paddle out to the south shore and check out Emerald Bay.

If you’d like to experience even more of Lake Tahoe this summer, be sure to check out the Lake Tahoe Water Trail. There are over 72 miles to explore and so many fun experiences to be had. Remember to be safe on the water, and always check the Lake Tahoe marine forecast, so you know what the conditions are like before hitting the water.

There’s a lot to do to keep your calendars full this spring and summer. Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or just want something fun to do out on the water, kayaking is a great option. For more information on what Northern Nevada has to offer, recommendations on places to check out, or inside knowledge of the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. Our expertise is unparalleled, and we’re happy to be your guides.

Mexcal and Food Truck Fridays Bring Creative Flair to Reno Cuisine

April 18, 2021/in Reno-Sparks Businesses /by Shauna Morris

Reno is a food lover’s dream city. With tons of amazing restaurants and food events that you can check out, you won’t have to travel far to find a menu that will make your mouth water. Mexcal and Food Truck Fridays are bringing creative flair to Reno cuisine, so make sure your tastebuds are ready for an adventure!

Mexcal

Mexcal has been open for about a year, and we can attest that they make killer Mexican food. With a creative menu full of tasty tacos and margaritas, you can’t go wrong. The pineapple jalapeno margarita and the ahi ceviche offer the light and refreshing tastes you’ll want to enjoy throughout the summer. The flautas are the perfect start to any meal, and we warn you now, you may not want to share them. If you need to end your meal on a sweet note, order the homemade churros as well.

Food Truck Fridays

Food Truck Fridays are returning this summer! After being canceled in 2020, we can’t wait to see this food truck event return to Idlewild Park in June. Every Friday in June, July, and August from 4 – 9 PM, you’ll be able to enjoy food and dessert options from a variety of vendors. As one of the top 10 largest weekly food truck events in the nation, you can’t miss stopping by to check out the amazing food. If you know of a food truck, trailer, or pop-up that you’d like to see at the event, make sure they submit a vendor application to [email protected] before the month of April is over.

We hope you’re just as excited as we are that Food Truck Fridays are coming back. Mexcal and Food Truck Fridays are just the cherry on top of the creative menus and delicious cuisine you’ll find throughout The Biggest Little City. If you’re in need of more recommendations on where to dine in Reno or if you need help navigating the current fast-paced real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re here to offer our expertise, and we’ll be by your side every step of the way.

Relocation Guide: Annual Events Happening in Reno, Sparks, and Tahoe

April 12, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno Events, Reno Events and Activities, Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

The Reno area has always been a hot spot for tourists. With tons of activities, beautiful weather, and a close proximity to Tahoe, it’s no wonder people looking for a fun vacation head to Northern Nevada. In fact, the annual events happening in Reno, Sparks, and Tahoe draw in people from all over the world. Some of the most notable events include:

January

New Year’s Fireworks, Dining, and Celebrations

February

Superbowl Viewings and Parties
Valentine’s Day Dining and Celebrations

March

Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry
Leprechaun Race
St. Patrick’s Day Dining and Celebrations

April

May

Northern Nevada Celtic Celebration
Mother’s Day Brunch and Activities
Moms on the Run
Spring Fever Revival
Chili on the Comstock and Craft Brew Tour
Memorial Day Celebration of Heroes Cruise
Summer Graduation Ceremonies

June

July

4th of July Parades, Fireworks, and Celebrations
Artown
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival

August

September

October

November

Veteran’s Day Cruise Parade

December

Lighted Christmas Parade
Santa Pub Crawl
39 North Pole Village Holiday Lights Festival
Hidden Valley Parade of Lights
Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
Winter Graduation Ceremonies

There’s always something happening in the Reno area, and these annual events draw in local residents as well as tourists from other cities. Be prepared for a little extra traffic and some street closures during popular events like Street Vibrations and Hot August Nights. It’s good to know what to expect when moving to a mid-sized city with attractions that draw visitors in year-round.

If you have questions about living in a tourist city or you want to know more about what to expect when relocating to the Reno-Sparks area, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Navigating the Hot Reno Market

April 7, 2021/in Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

The real estate market continues to change, but the last year has brought unforeseen highs and lows to the Reno market. The current seller’s market may add new challenges and obstacles for buyers and new opportunities for sellers. Let’s take a look at the current market and how to navigate it.

Record Low Supply

Inventory levels normally hover at a couple of months, but these days, inventory levels are hovering at a few weeks. Fewer homes are on the market has highlighted the shortage of homes in Northern Nevada and the nation. The recession brought the home building industry close to a stand-still, limiting the houses on the market.

High Demand

That low supply level is being matched by a high demand. With more people working from home, the pandemic highlighting new wants and needs in a home, and low interest rates, more buyers are searching for homes. We’re seeing more people looking to relocate to Nevada to take advantage of the tax benefits, beautiful weather, great employment opportunities, and variety of amenities that Reno has to offer.

More Refinancing

Record low interest rates have incentivized potential sellers to stay in their current homes and refinance their mortgages to capitalize on those low interest rates.

Navigating the Market

The hot market means that it’s more important for buyers to be prepared. Buyers should:

Get prequalified. You need to know how much house you can afford to buy before you start looking.
Make a strong offer. If you come in with an offer below asking price, it’s likely you’ll be outbid, and your offer won’t be considered.
Have extra cash ready. Homes are going above asking price and above appraisal values. Having the money to cover the difference is imperative to getting to the closing.
Hire a real estate professional who has the necessary experience and negotiation skills to advocate on your behalf in a challenging market. You must have someone who knows this market and knows how to structure an attractive offer that has the best chance of being accepted by a seller in a multiple offer situation.

The hot market also means that it’s a great time for sellers to capitalize on the market. Sellers should:

Be prepared for multiple offers. It’s likely that your home will create a bidding war amongst buyers.
Review each bid with your agent to determine which one is the best fit.
Move quickly. Some buyers prefer a quick closing, so be prepared for things to move quickly after accepting an offer and closing on a home.

The seller’s market is moving quickly, and if you need help navigating the hot Reno market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re here to offer our expertise, and we’ll be by your side every step of the way–give us a call at 775.828.3292.

Spring Landscaping – What Grows Well in the Reno Area

April 2, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

If you’re hoping to add some color or personality to your landscaping, choose plants that grow well in the Reno area. The climate, soil, and water can pose problems for plant life in the area, with temperature extremes, low humidity, clay-heavy soils, and lots of wind inhibiting plant growth. Your spring landscaping can include the trees, shrubs, perennials, and vines from the list below that have proven to grow well in Nevada.

Trees:

Apple
Apricot
Arizona Cypress
Ash
Asian pear
Atlas Cedar
Austrian Pine
Bosnian Pine
Bristlecone Pine
Crabapple Blue
Cherries
Gingko
Golden Rain
Hawthorne
Honeylocust
Incense Cedar
Jeffrey Pine
Limber Pine
Maple
Nectarine
Oak
Peach
Pear
Persian Ironwood
Plum
Ponderosa Pine
Redbud
Serviceberry
Scotch Pine
Swiss Stone Pine
Wichita Blue Juniper
White Fir
Zelkova

Shrubs:

Amur Maple
Barberry
Buffaloberry
Butterfly Bush
Caryopteris
Chokeberry
Cistena Plum
Cotoneaster
Diervilla
Juniper
Kinnikinnick
Lilac
Mock Orange
Mugo Pine
Ninebark
Potentilla
Quince
Rose of Sharon
Rose
Serviceberry
Siberian Peashrub
Smokebush
Snowberry
Spiraea
Sumac
Yucca

Perennials:

Agastache
Baptisia
Bee Balm
Blanket Flower
California Fuchsia
Catmint
Centranthus
Coneflower
Coreopsis
Daylily
Dianthus
Fern Bush
Flax
Ice Plant
Iris
Lavender
Lupine
Mexican Primrose
Penstemon
Peony
Red Hot Poker
Red Valerian
Red Yucca
Russian Sage
Salvia
Sedum
Sneezeweed
Snow in Summer
Spirea
Thyme
Veronica
Yarrow

Vines:

Honeysuckle
Silver Lace
Trumpet Vine
Wisteria

Be sure to research the best times to plant, where your plants will thrive in your yard, and what type of soil you have. You can always talk to the local experts at the Moana Nursery for advice on the plants that will work best in your yard.

Plants have the added benefit of adding extra curb appeal to your home. If you’re curious about Reno landscaping, how to improve your home, or the Northern Nevada real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

Relocation Guide: The Benefits of Moving to a College Town

March 26, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

Colleges have been known to strengthen the towns they’re a part of and draw in residents with no affiliation to the university. Reno takes great pride in its proximity to the oldest college in the state. The University of Nevada, Reno plays a big role in the city’s identity and offers a variety of benefits to those moving to a college town.

1. Active Sport Scene

Sports lovers will have their pick of sporting events to attend, and admission fees to a college game are much more affordable than what you’ll pay for a major league game. From football to basketball and baseball, the University of Nevada, Reno is home to great athletes and great sports facilities. You won’t want to miss a game. For baseball lovers, you can also catch a Reno Aces game!

2. Unique Dining Options

College towns are known for offering a variety of dining options to meet everyone’s tastes. You may have trouble choosing a place to grab a bite to eat or keeping up with the latest restaurants opening their doors in the area.

3. Ongoing Community Events

The university offers a variety of events for students, but they also host events for the community. You can find events that benefit local nonprofits, homecoming events, theater performances, singing and dancing showcases, and more.

4. Diverse Demographic

Universities recruit students, staff, and faculty from all over the globe. UNR also has a great study abroad program, which contributes to a community full of people from all walks of life. The college opens residents up to experience a variety of cultures and cultural events.

5. Healthy Job Market

Businesses and corporations often find that college towns have a healthy pool of talented and educated employees to pull from, making it enticing to open up shop in the community. Reno has drawn in businesses large and small for those exact reasons. The university itself also produces a variety of career opportunities.

These are just a few of the benefits of moving to a college town. Besides ample educational opportunities, the University of Nevada, Reno is just another facet to what makes the Biggest Little City in the World a wonderful place to call home. Contact the David Morris Group to learn more about living in a college town as well as why relocating to Reno may be a good fit for you. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market!

Are You Ready to Saddle Up and Call Saddlehorn Home?

March 24, 2021/in Reno Neighborhoods, Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

Luxury living is what the Saddlehorn community is known for. Homes are nestled amongst the gorgeous landscape and offer a serene and peaceful atmosphere close to the city. Are you ready to saddle up and call Saddlehorn home? Let’s pony up and see what the community has to offer!

Homes

This Southwest Reno community first began developing in the 1980s, but the community has grown over the years to include over 420 home sites. The hundreds of custom-built luxury homes come in various styles and offer differing architectural amenities and features. Homes are situated on half-acre or one-acre lots, giving homeowners plenty of space and views of the city or the mountains.

Amenities

With a 13-acre community park featuring playgrounds, sports fields, sports courts, paved jogging trails, horseshoe pits, pavilions, and BBQ pits, there’s so much to do within the neighborhood. The trail system also has direct access to the Thomas Creek Trail, taking you into the Mt. Rose Wilderness.

If that’s not enough outdoor recreation options for you, Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe is only 20 minutes from Saddlehorn. This community is also close to the great golf courses at Club at Arrowcreek and Wolf Run Golf Club.

For all of your shopping needs, check out the Galena Junction Shopping Center and the 60+ retailers at the Summit Reno — both are minutes away from Saddlehorn. Each of these shopping centers offers great dining options and entertainment.

Schools

Schools serving the students in Saddlehorn include Hunsberger Elementary School, Herz Middle School, and Galena High School — all a part of the Washoe County School District. For private school options, Sage Ridge School and Bishop Manogue Catholic High School are nearby.

Saddlehorn continues to be the pinnacle for luxury living in Reno. If you’re curious about the community and looking for more information on Saddlehorn, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to help you begin your home search. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.