Reno-Sparks Real Estate - David Morris Group

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.

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.

Settle Down in Somersett

February 22, 2021/in Reno Neighborhoods, Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

One of the most well-known neighborhoods in Northwest Reno is the master-planned golf community of Somersett. With the gorgeous views of the Sierra Nevada foothills outside your door and minutes from the state line, there are a variety of reasons to settle down in Somersett.

Homes

The single-family homes in Somersett range in style, size, and cost. You can find cozy homes in small neighborhood clusters, sprawling gated homes, and custom builds. If you’ve been considering building your own dream home with designs, features, and layouts that work for you, there are still lots available in the Somersett community.

Amenities

For all of your shopping, dining, and entertainment needs, Somersett is a 15-minute drive to Downtown and Midtown Reno. If you’re looking for options closer to home, the Somersett’s Town Square Center and Somersett Country Club have everything you need!

Somersett residents are also close to the Canyon Nine Golf Course, Club at Somersett recreation center, Somersett Golf Country Club, and nearly 30 miles of paved and natural recreation trails. Whether you enjoy golfing, hiking, or biking, Somersett offers everything you need to get you outside and soaking up the fresh Sierra Nevada air. Within a 45-minute drive of Somersett, you’ll have your choice of ski resorts and recreational activities that are common in Tahoe.

Schools

Schools serving the students in Somersett include George Westergard Elementary School, B.D. Billinghurst Middle School, and Robert McQueen High School — all a part of the Washoe County School District.

When it comes to close-knit communities, Somersett is the place to be. They pride themselves on creating strong bonds with neighbors and even have an active Facebook page to keep residents up to date on the latest news, events, and opportunities in the community.

If you’re looking for more information on what it’s like to settle down in Somersett, 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: How Does Reno Stack Up Against San Francisco?

February 18, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information, Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

The Bay area draws in creatives, tech geniuses, and entrepreneurs of all kinds. San Francisco continues to be a beacon for those working in various fields, but with large spikes in industries working remotely, it has caused many to look to other cities that may be cheaper and offer a variety of amenities that aren’t offered in San Francisco. So, how does Reno stack up against San Francisco?

Cost Comparison:

The median price of homes sold in January of 2021 was $446,702 in Reno, while the median price of homes sold was $1,745,000 in San Francisco. The median price in Reno is 75% less than that of San Francisco.
It costs 61% less to rent in Reno than in San Francisco.
Costs to register your vehicle are 53% cheaper in Reno.
Transportation costs are 43% more in San Francisco.
Child care costs nearly 20% more in San Francisco.
Auto insurance is 15% cheaper in Reno.
Sales tax is roughly 3% less in Reno than in San Francisco.
Utilities cost 2% more in San Francisco.
Reno has no state income tax.

Commutes:

Commute times for Reno residents averages 20 minutes.
Commute times for San Francisco residents averages 45 minutes.
Average gas price for Reno is $2.77 and $3.23 for San Francisco, making commutes cheaper and faster in Reno.

Reno’s National Rankings in 2020:

#1 Best Small Cities of 2020 – BestCities.org
#4 Best-Performing Cities of 2020 – Milken Institute
#11 Best Places For Business And Careers – Forbes
#17 Best Cities for Outdoor Activities in America – Niche
#38 Best Places to Live – U.S. News and World Report
Top 100 Best Places to Live – Livability

Reno and San Francisco share a lot in common when it comes to climate. With nearly identical sunny days, Reno only differs from San Francisco in snowfall and colder winter temperatures. On average, Reno has a lower cost of living, shorter commute times, and continuously ranks well in national reports.

The Biggest Little City in the World is expanding and becoming a beacon for city dwellers that don’t want to give up outdoor amenities and close-knit communities for events, attractions, and businesses — Reno has it all in spades!

If you or someone you know is considering relocating to Reno, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to share our insights on the city and make it a smooth transition from visitor to resident!

The Reality of Real Estate: Understanding the Home Appraisal Process and Why It’s an Important Step in Purchasing Your First Home

January 27, 2021/in Reality of Real Estate, Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

Buying a home is a lengthy process with several steps to complete before being handed the keys to your new adventure. One of the key components of the transaction is the home appraisal. Let’s take a leap towards understanding the home appraisal process and why it’s an important step in purchasing your first home.

What is a home appraisal?

An appraisal is a professional and unbiased assessment of what your home is worth. As a buyer, you want the appraiser to find that the contract price you and the seller have agreed upon is appropriate. The lender wants to know if you’re asking to borrow more money than what the home is worth.

What is factored into the appraisal value?

The appraiser will look into several factors to determine the value of the home. Some of the factors include:

Recent sales of similar properties
Current market trends
Amenities of the home
Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
Functionality of floor plan
Square footage

The appraiser will also have to fill out a report that includes things like:

A street map with the appraised value and the other home sales data used
Sketch/photos of the home’s exterior
Square footage calculation and explanation
Photos of the front of homes used to compare sales price data

Who orders and pays for the appraisal?

Because the appraisal is meant to protect the lender in the case that the borrower cannot pay back the loan and the home would be sold to get the lender their money back, the lender usually initiates ordering the appraisal. The appraisal cost can vary but is usually a couple of hundred dollars and is a fee that the buyer must bear.

Where does the home appraisal fall in the home buying process?

The home appraisal is usually one of the first steps in the closing process and is done when you’ve entered the under contract stage of the home buying process. If the appraisal comes in at or below the agreed-upon contract price, you can move on to the next step in the process, but if the appraisal is below the price you agreed upon, there may be further steps you need to take.

The appraisal process is an important step, and it can even be a great negotiation tool if the appraiser values the home at a lower price than the agreed-upon contract price, but it can also be a factor that makes a deal fall through. Be prepared for what the appraisal will find, and let your REALTOR® help guide you through the process. If you have questions about what else you should expect when purchasing your first home, contact the David Morris Group at 775-828-3292. We’re happy to share our knowledge and skills to help you become a homeowner.

Could You Be the Next Copper Knolls Resident?

January 18, 2021/in Reno Neighborhoods, Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

Located in the Somersett area lies the picturesque neighborhood of Copper Knolls. With beautiful mountains surrounding the community, each home has a dazzling view to offer residents. The gorgeous scenery is but one of the things to love about the charming community of Copper Knolls.

Homes

Single-family homes in the Copper Knolls area average about 2,156 to 2,899 square feet and feature two to four bedrooms. As a community that was built in the early 2000s, it’s a newer development in the Reno area. Homes are located between the Somersett West Park and the Somersett East Park on lots that range from 0.19 to 0.37 acres.

Amenities

Just minutes from the Copper Knolls neighborhood lies the Somersett Golf and Country Club, where residents can enjoy many amenities and a panoramic view. The nearby parks also offer the neighborhood a ton of green space to explore as well as basketball courts, a playground, and picnic areas.

For anyone looking to explore the boutiques, coffee shops, restaurants, and nightlife of Downtown Reno, Copper Knolls is just under 10 miles away. That also means that anyone commuting to Downtown Reno for work only has a 15-minute drive.

Schools

Schools serving the students in Copper Knolls include George Westergard Elementary School, B.D. Billinghurst Middle School, and Robert McQueen High School — all a part of the Washoe County School District. The public charter school, Coral Academy of Science, offers an alternative to the Washoe County School District.

Copper Knolls is a tight-knit community that Reno residents love to call home. If you have any questions about what we love about the community or which homes in the neighborhood are currently on the market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to help you begin your home search. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

Easy Upgrades To Get Your Home Ready To Sell

January 4, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

If you’re thinking about selling your home, there’s never been a better time. With increased demand and low levels of inventory, buyers have never been more motivated to purchase a home. While it’s a great time to sell, it’s also the perfect time to make a few adjustments around the house in order to maximize the return on your investment. Check out the easy upgrades to get your home ready to sell.

Easy Upgrades Throughout the House

New hardware – Brass hinges, old doorknobs, outdated cabinet handles, etc,. can be eyesores that take away from your home. A few simple changes can elevate the design of items in your home and give them new life. Buyers will notice and comment on new hardware — trust us!
Deep clean the floors – Polish up the hardwood floors, steam clean carpets, and make sure the floors look ready for a new family. Dust bunnies, scratches, and stains will detract from the rest of your home.
Refresh the grout – Dirty or outdated grout in the kitchen and bathrooms can be a major turn-off for buyers. Give it a deep cleaning or put a new application of grout to make these areas of your home shine.
Lighting – Lighting is the key to a great showing. You not only want great natural light, but you want your light fixtures to brighten the home and be stylish. Lighting can often be overlooked by a seller, but it’s never overlooked by a buyer.

Easy Kitchen Upgrades

Add a tile backsplash – A simple tile backsplash doesn’t have to be expensive or even something you hire someone for. There are tons of options available to you, and it makes for a great weekend DIY project.
Paint the island – Painting cabinets can be very time consuming, so cut the time in half by focusing only on your kitchen island. It’s a very trendy fix, and it shows that you’ve put some TLC into your home.

Easy Bathroom Upgrades

Mirror, mirror, on the wall – If your mirror is showing signs of wear or is tragically outdated, change it out. Research some of the popular design trends and measure to see which ones will work in your space before purchasing the new mirror.
Bathroom fixtures – If the faucet and shower fixtures are looking a little old, simply switch them out for something newer.

Spending a little time and money preparing your home for the market can greatly impact the resale value and entice buyers. Start with these easy upgrades to get your home ready to sell, and if you have any questions about how the David Morris Group can help you find the right buyers to get your home sold quickly, contact us at (775) 828-3292.

New Year’s Resolutions to Make Your House a Better Home

December 22, 2020/in Lifestyle, Reno Neighborhoods, Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

2021 will be here in the blink of an eye, and while we can’t believe that 2020 has passed by already, it is once again time to make resolutions and goals for the new year. If your 2020 resolutions have more than a few things you couldn’t check off thanks to a global pandemic, make a few goals that you can achieve no matter what the year holds. Check out the New Year’s resolutions to make your house a better home.

Minimize energy use

With more time spent at home comes more energy used and higher utility bills. Take time to find ways you can cut costs. You can start by:

Unplugging appliances when they’re not in use.
Hang curtains to keep your home cooler in the summer.
Open blinds during the day to use natural light to brighten your home rather than light fixtures.
Add a timer to control how long your lights stay on.
Switch to energy-saving light bulbs.

Create a cleaning schedule and stick to it

Keeping a tidy home can be overwhelming, especially if you find that your weekends are consumed with deep cleaning. There may be some areas of your home that you’re overcleaning and some areas of your home that you’re neglecting. Create daily tasks that will help you maximize your time and keep your home tidy at all times.

Take on one DIY project a month

If you’re tired of the furniture in your home or you want to spruce up your space without breaking the bank, research a few DIY projects that you may want to try and put them into action. Trying something new and adding some sweat equity into your home can help you love your space.

Try seasonal trends

Home design is a lot like fashion — the trends change quickly and often seasonally. Research the latest home design trends and try them out in your home. It can be a simple change that you don’t spend a lot of time or money on, but it may open your eyes to new styles, colors, and themes that you like and may want to continue in your home.

Focus on your outside space

Your outdoor space is as much a part of making a house a home as the interior space is. Reno has beautiful seasons, and it’s important to have an outdoor area where you can spend time soaking up the sun, breathing in the fall air, and cuddling up by a fire pit in the brisk evenings. Think about investing in outdoor furniture, hammocks, a projector for outdoor movie nights, etc. Make it a fun and usable space.

If you’re in need of more New Year’s resolutions to make your house a home or you’re simply curious about the Reno-Sparks real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

The Latest Construction Projects Around Reno and Sparks

December 17, 2020/in Reno-Sparks Businesses, Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

Just as many of us have been using the time at home to build new skills, take on new projects, and think outside the box, the city of Reno has been doing the same. The future of Reno looks bright, and it’s partly because of some exciting developments that are on the horizon. Check out the latest construction projects around Reno and Sparks.

Reno City Center

The former Harrah’s casino is a part of a new project to turn downtown Reno into a place where live, work, and play culminate perfectly. The west tower isn’t slated to wrap for another two years, but when finished, it will include apartments, retail space, and public green space.

Keystone Commons

With financing secured, Keystone Commons has begun rolling forward on construction for the parking garage, four-story apartment building, and retail space. Some of the brands that have leased space in the upcoming development include In-N-Out Burger and Starbucks.

The Oddie District

The former Lowe’s building in Sparks is currently the site for a $30 million work-live development. It will feature 40,000 square feet set aside for a maker space component and 60,000 square feet set aside for “flex-tech” spaces that can double as living quarters. The massive project has also set aside 9,000 square feet for small businesses, 10,000 square feet for restaurants, and 8,000 square feet for a brewery/distillery.

Swope Middle School

In an effort to help alleviate any overcrowding, Swope Middle School is undergoing some construction to add a new gym, new classrooms, and new HVAC systems throughout the school. Construction is expected to finish by 2022.

T3

There’s some new momentum to report for the T3 development. Permits for a five-story apartment complex and a five-story parking garage have been submitted. There are also plans for retail and green space, but progress hasn’t started on those projects yet. With a completion date in 2023, this development will be one to watch out for in the coming years.

If you’re curious about any of the latest construction projects around Reno and Sparks or you’re simply curious about the Reno-Sparks real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

Record Low Supply

High Demand

More Refinancing

Navigating the Market

Trees:

Shrubs:

Perennials:

Vines:

Homes

Amenities

Schools

Homes

Amenities

Schools

Cost Comparison:

Commutes:

Reno’s National Rankings in 2020:

What is a home appraisal?

What is factored into the appraisal value?

Who orders and pays for the appraisal?

Where does the home appraisal fall in the home buying process?

Homes

Amenities

Schools

Easy Upgrades Throughout the House

Easy Kitchen Upgrades

Easy Bathroom Upgrades

Minimize energy use

Create a cleaning schedule and stick to it

Take on one DIY project a month

Try seasonal trends

Focus on your outside space

Reno City Center

Keystone Commons

The Oddie District

Swope Middle School

T3

Receive More Information

Certifications & Affiliations