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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.

Slice, Slice, Baby: Where to Enjoy Good Pizza in Reno

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

Alright, stop, collaborate and listen; we’re here to tell you about the local pizza spots that’ll be your new addiction! Now that we’ve brought you back to the 90s and made you a little nostalgic, let’s take a look at where to enjoy good pizza in Reno.

Noble Pie Parlor

With three locations, one in Downtown, another in Midtown, and the last at the Summit, it’s likely that you’ve passed Noble Pie several times. If you haven’t found the time to stop in, put it on your list! They use local ingredients and make it all in-house, including their ranch dressing.

Pizzava

Have you ever found yourself reaching for the phone to order pizza at 10 AM? The breakfast pizza at Pizzava proves that pizza can be breakfast food, and a delicious one! The menu is massive, and after your first order, you’ll be back to try everything on the menu.

JJ.’s Pie Company

As a staple of the community since 1983, it wouldn’t be a list of great pizza spots without mentioning J.J.’s. The pizza is outstanding and so are their subs. The J.J.’s Special and The Baja are favorites on the menu.

Smiling with Hope Pizza

If you’re looking for New York-style pizza with a good cause, check out Smiling with Hope. They hire workers with disabilities to help them earn money and gather life skills. They were the #1 rated pizzeria in the USA on Yelp, and they will officially be reopening on April 13, so be sure to check them out.

The Pizza Collective

Do you call yourself THE pizza lover in the family? If yes, you’ll find yourself amongst like-minded people at the Pizza Collective. Their handmade sourdough crust takes their recipes to the next level, and their unique flavor combinations are something that you can only get here.

Other Noteworthy Pizza Places to Try:

If you’re in need of more tips, like dip your pizza crust in honey (thank us later), or you’re in need of some insight into the current fast-moving real estate market, contact the David Morris Group at (775) 828-3292.

Relocation Guide: Nevada Tax Advantages

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

Living in Nevada, specifically in the Reno area, comes with a variety of benefits. From its close proximity to the blue waters of Lake Tahoe and the ski resorts to the never-ending list of events and activities going on around town, there’s a lot that already draws in new residents. But, one thing that shouldn’t be overlooked is all of the Nevada tax advantages.

No State Income Tax

To enjoy no state income tax, Nevada has to be your central place of residence, but you can do business and have residences in other states. Nevada just needs to be the state you have the closest ties or spend the most time out of the year. Becoming a Nevada resident will help you avoid state income taxes except for income that arises from sources within another state.

No Personal Income Tax

Many states force residents to pay taxes on income they’ve earned, and for high earners, this can result in high taxes. Nevada doesn’t tax an individual’s income earnings, allowing individuals to keep more of their hard-earned income in their pockets.

No Corporate Income Tax

A corporate tax is a tax on the profits of a corporation. The taxes are paid on a company’s taxable income, which includes revenue minus the cost of goods sold, general and administrative expenses, selling and marketing, etc.

No Franchise Tax

Many states impose a separate tax on at least some businesses, called a franchise tax. Simply put, this is a tax the state imposes for the privilege of doing business in the state. Franchise taxes are generally either a flat fee or an amount based on a business’s net worth.

While these are four of the largest tax advantages to calling Nevada home, there are more benefits to consider, including:

No inventory tax
No tax on issuance of corporate shares
No requirements of shareholders and directors to live in Nevada
No tax on sale or transfer of shares
No initial or minimum capital requirements
Anonymity of owners
Low property taxes
Business-friendly environment

There’s a lot to love about being a Reno resident, including the Nevada tax advantages you get to benefit from. If you’re hoping to move somewhere that will allow you to keep more money in your pocket and provide you with a great work-live-play atmosphere, Northern Nevada may be the right fit for you. Contact the David Morris Group to learn more about relocating to Reno. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market with you!

Can You Name the Celebrities with Ties to Reno and Northern Nevada?

March 8, 2021/in Lifestyle /by Shauna Morris

The spring season often marks when celebrities are nominated for awards and when some of the most viewed award shows are broadcasted around the world. Before you tune in to root for your favorite artists, actors, and performances, we’re wondering, can you name the celebrities with ties to Reno and Northern Nevada?

Adam Cates – Cates is a director, choreographer, playwright, and best-selling author who has worked on Tony-winning shows on Broadway.
Ben Erway – Erway was a popular actor in the 40s and 50s with roles on The Twilight Zone and The Bishop’s Wife.
Bryce Johnson – The acting reel of Johnson features many guest appearances in a variety of popular T.V. series, but he is most known for his role in Popular.
Chase Ellison – This actor got his start in acting at a young age by appearing on Malcolm in the Middle and 7th Heaven. He also went on to star in Mysterious Skin, Tooth Fairy, and The Boy Who Cried Werewolf.
Curtis Hanson – After getting some small films under his belt, Hanson then went on to direct well-known films like The River Wild, L.A. Confidential, and 8 Mile.
Dawn Wells – Wells is known for playing the beloved character of Mary Ann on Gilligan’s Island.
Gabriel Damon – From being the voice of Littlefoot in The Land Before Time to rolls on Star Trek: The Next Generation and ER, Damon has a great history in the industry.
Jaylen Barron – Barron began her acting career with guest spots on popular Disney shows like Shake It Up and Good Luck Charlie. She also appeared in a few episodes of Shameless before landing her big role in Free Reign.
Jena Malone – Born in Sparks, Malone has had a successful acting career. Some of her most well-known works include Stepmom and The Hunger Games series.
Kristoffer Polaha – This actor and producer was born in Reno and is known for Jurassic World: Dominion, Wonder Woman 1984, and Where Hope Grows.
Mädchen Amick – Amick is known for her roles in Twin Peaks and Riverdale.
Ron Thomas – Thomas is known for his acting in Cobra Kai and The Karate Kid.

Actors, artists, athletes — there’s no shortage of talented people with ties to Reno and Northern Nevada. This list barely scratches the surface of the celebrities who have a connection with the Biggest Little City. If you have more fun facts about Reno, or you want to chat about the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group at (775) 828-3292.

How to Spend Your Time At Home in Reno and Sparks

March 4, 2021/in Lifestyle, Reno Events and Activities /by Shauna Morris

As a full year passes since our day-to-day lives were completely flipped upside down, it’s important to find new ways to spend the extra time at home. Whether you’re bored or looking for resources to keep you and your loved ones occupied, check out how to spend your time at home in Reno and Sparks.

Hands ON! at Home – The Nevada Museum of Art is inviting everyone to get crafty using basic art supplies and materials found around the house. It’s a great way to look at the world and objects around you in a new light.
Virtual Guided Hikes – Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation offers a virtual hiking experience through some of the most popular parks and trails in the area. They also have park guides to give you some great information on each of the hiking areas.
Digital Library Services – The Washoe County Library offers library cardholders with ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, research, language learning, software tutorials, reading suggestions, and more. You’re sure to find something that you love from the digital library.
Virtual Rec Center – The City of Reno has put together a list of helpful resources on all of the ways you can stay productive at home. The virtual rec center includes everything from Tai Chi and fitness classes to songwriting classes and quilting tips for beginners. No matter what you’re interested in, there’s something that will pique your interest.
Learn with Smithsonian – The Smithsonian is offering a variety of activities and games, as well as opportunities to meet the residents of the zoo, explore Smithsonian Augmented Reality on Instagram, join the Smithsonian Learning Lab, and explore some of the Smithsonian’s most treasured objects.
Walt Disney Imagineering – Take a virtual tour of Walt Disney Imagineering, and then be sure to check out Imagineering in a Box – a one-of-a-kind online learning experience from Disney Imagineers!

Your spring can include checking out what’s blooming around town and enjoying some outdoor dining, but there are also some great ways to spend your time indoors. This list is just the jumping-off point for how to spend your time at home in Reno and Sparks. If you have other ideas on how to make the most of your time indoors or you want to chat about the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group at (775) 828-3292.

Relocation Guide: Things to Ask Yourself Before Moving to Reno

February 25, 2021/in Reno Relocation Information /by Shauna Morris

Less than an hour from Lake Tahoe and less than 4 hours from San Francisco, Reno offers the perfect location. With a bustling downtown area, great school districts, a variety of events, activities, and amenities available, the Biggest Little City is constantly drawing attention. The changing seasons, growing career opportunities, and love for the unique offer something for everyone to enjoy. If you are considering relocating, there are some things to ask yourself before moving to Reno.

Do you want a home in Reno, Sparks, or an outer city like Spanish Springs and Carson City?
Are you prepared for colder winters, some snow, and no humidity? Are you prepared for rapidly changing weather? (There’s a reason we say that if you don’t like the weather, just wait 5 minutes.)
Will you be buying a home or renting a home?
What style of home are you looking for?
Are there schools, programs, or offices that you would like to be close to?
Is it important to be near parks, trails, green spaces, etc.?
Do you have reliable transportation, or will you be biking/walking/bussing where you go?
Are you planning to job search when you’re in Reno, or will you be coming with a job opportunity already mapped out? Are there other career opportunities in your field in the area?
Does your budget work with the average cost of living in Reno?
Do you want to be a part of a community that has an HOA?
Are you hoping to be a part of a community that is close-knit or keeps to themselves?
Do you have family and friends in the area, or will you need to build a network of friends in the area?
Are you planning to join in on the multitude of festivities happening throughout the year (May – October, especially)? Can you handle the number of tourists coming in for the well-known events?
Does Reno have the things you need? Think about your favorite foods, shops, grocery stores, etc.

These things to ask yourself before moving to Reno are a great jumping-off point. These questions will allow you to outline what you’re looking for and set you up for some great conversations with a real estate expert that knows the Reno area well. If you have any questions about relocating to Reno and what the area has to offer, contact the David Morris Group. We’re always happy to share our knowledge of the area and the real estate market with you!

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