david morris group | David Morris Group

The Reality of Real Estate: Nevada First-Time Homebuyer Loan Programs – What Do They Offer and Can They Help Cover Upfront Costs?

As a leading real estate broker in Northern Nevada, we’ve worked with buyers and sellers with a variety of needs, wants, and tools at their disposal. While we are not mortgage brokers and can’t give you loan information that is specific to your circumstances, we have come to learn that there are some great first-time homebuyer programs available to help you cover the costs and secure financing for your dream home.

National Programs

FHA Loans – Popular amongst buyers with low credit scores and those that can only afford a small down payment. The Federal Housing Administration allows down payments of 3.5% for those with credit scores of 580 or higher. The FHA will insure loans for borrowers with scores as low as 500. Mortgage insurance is also required for an FHA loan.
VA Loans – Military members, veterans, and surviving spouses can qualify for loans with no minimum credit score and no down payment or mortgage insurance, but be prepared to pay a VA funding fee.
USDA Loans – Eligible rural and suburban homebuyers can receive a zero-down-payment mortgage through the USDA Rural Development Guaranteed Housing Loan Program. There are very specific limitations and guidelines you’ll have to meet to qualify.

Nevada Programs

Home Is Possible (HIP) – First-time and repeat homebuyers can receive up to 5% of the loan amount to pay the down payment, closing costs, or a combination of both. The money doesn’t have to be repaid if you keep the home as your primary residence. There are a variety of limitations that must be met, and you will need to complete a homebuyer education course.
Home Is Possible for First-Time Homebuyers – Down payment and closing cost assistance up to 4% of the loan amount that is strictly for first-time home buyers. There are limitations you will need to meet, but the money doesn’t have to be repaid if you stay in your home for 15 years.
Home Is Possible for Heroes – Active-duty military, honorably discharged veterans, members of the National Guard, and surviving spouses are eligible for below-market interest rates with a one-time fee of $755. Again, there are specific limitations you’ll need to meet, and an education course is required.

There are great programs at your fingertips to help you with the purchase of your first home. If you’re worried you can’t qualify for a great loan or won’t be able to secure financing, meet with an established mortgage lender to talk through your options. They have the tools and resources to find you the best program and can educate you on how to become a homeowner.

If you’d like some recommendations on great lenders in the area to contact for more information or you’re simply curious about the tools, resources, and knowledge we have for first-time homebuyers, contact the David Morris Group at 775-828-3292!

New Reno Restaurants to Get Excited About

November 12, 2020/in Reno-Sparks Businesses /by Shauna Morris

While you’re checking out the best turkey recipes and trying to decide which side dishes to add to your holiday menu, you may be working up an appetite or in need of a new place to try when you get tired of eating your leftovers. Luckily, there are some great new Reno restaurants to get excited about and try out.

Ding Tea

2900 Clearacre Lane, suite U-1
The Taiwanese bubble tea cafe offers a wide variety of milk teas with great taste. With a great selection and a beautiful presentation, Ding Tea has a lot of residents excited about their opening.

Dream Tacos & Cantina

180 W. Peckham Lane, suite 1110
The reviews are in, and Reno residents are talking about how good the street tacos are, specifically the al pastor street tacos, from Dream Tacos & Cantina. A friendly staff and scratch-made taco shells have put this place on our list of restaurants to give a try.

Isla De Manila

1575 Vassar St.
If you’re hoping to enjoy some Filipino comfort food or try delicacies that you may not have heard about, you’ll want to check out Isla De Manila. The chicken adobo, inasal chicken marinated in citrus, and beef kare-kare stew are just a few of the big menu staples to try.

The Office of Hughes and Porter Bar & Lounge

248 W. First St.
The Jungle Vino bar has gotten a complete revamp. The menu features a variety of handcrafted cocktails and a wine selection stretching the globe. As you sip on your favorite cocktails, be sure to check out some of the snacks and small bites. The Office of Hughes and Porter Bar & Lounge is the perfect happy hour setting.

Pasta Fresca

6135 Lakeside Drive, suite 138
The homemade pastas and pasta sauces are what this Italian restaurant are known for, but they also appeal to organic, vegan, and gluten-free diners with their wide variety of menu options. Pasta Fresca also has salads, desserts, breads made in-house, Italian imported meats and cheeses, and cappuccinos.

R Town Pizza

180 W. Peckham Lane, suite 1100
The Detroit-style pizza, craft beer and cocktails, and ice cream sandwiches have made this a highly anticipated new Reno restaurant to check out. R Town Pizza will have a variety of toppings and styles to choose from.

Tandem Chocolates

7111 S. Virginia St., suite A15
The custom confections and delicious chocolates will soon be ready for purchase at this dessert haven. If you have a sweet tooth or a love for award-winning bonbons, check out Tandem Chocolates.

Remember that carbs don’t count around the holidays. Be sure to make all of your favorite foods without guilt and check out these new Reno restaurants when you don’t feel like cooking. If you have any questions about the new businesses hitting the community or which homes 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.

5 Reasons to Call Reno Home

November 6, 2020/in Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

Reno continues to be a popular destination for people looking to buy a home. As a vibrant city with unlimited opportunities and potential, the area continues to see growth while keeping the charm that it’s known for. Check out some of the reasons to call Reno home.

1. A Great Location

Location is crucial in real estate, and being located in an area that is near so many cities makes Reno perfect for those that like to be close to the action. In fact, from Reno, it’s roughly a

45-minute drive to Lake Tahoe.
1-hour flight to Las Vegas.
2-hour drive to Sacramento.
3.5-hour drive to San Francisco.

2. Affordable + Tax Benefits

Buying a home in Reno is more affordable than in many large cities, especially when compared to the California market. As a bonus, Nevada is one of the most tax-friendly states in the U.S. There is no state income tax, low property taxes, and no inheritance tax.

3. Outdoor Activities

With proximity to one of the most beautiful lakes, Reno residents can enjoy beach days and a variety of water activities. There are also great places to hike, bike, run, and climb. The highest concentration of world-class ski resorts in the country are located in the Reno area, so come the winter months, you have a variety of places to go to hit the slopes. Be a thrill-seeker and go camping, snowboarding, paddle boarding, boating, golfing, climbing, horseback riding, and more.

4. Beautiful Seasons

Reno residents get to experience what a true spring, summer, fall, and winter are like. You’ll have spring showers, hot days, leaves that change colors, and the occasional snow day.

5. Amazing Food, Entertainment, and Events

If you consider yourself a foodie, you’ll love Reno. There are all kinds of eateries, bars, breweries, food trucks, cafes, and more serving up a variety of cuisine and drinks. As a 24-hour city, there’s always something to do. Catch a game, watch a show, head to a concert, or visit the casinos. When it comes to events, Reno is home to Artown, Hot August Nights, the Reno River Festival, the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off, the Great Balloon Race, the Reno Rodeo, Burning Man, the Barracuda Championship, the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, and plenty more.

Living in Reno comes with benefits that are waiting for you to take advantage of them. The atmosphere, amenities, and affordability are just a few of the reasons to call Reno home. If you have any questions about what we love about the community or which homes 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.

The Reality of Real Estate: Buying a Home Can Take Weeks or Months, So Be Prepared for a Lengthy Process

October 28, 2020/in Reality of Real Estate, Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

Many first time homebuyers fall for the illusion that buying a home will be as simple as picking out a dream home, signing on the dotted line, and then being handed the keys. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. It can take anywhere from 30-60 days just to close on a home in a normal market, so let’s break down the home buying process with a realistic timeline of when you can expect to move into a new home.

Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage – 1-2 Weeks

After researching lenders and deciding on the best type of mortgage for you, it usually only takes about five business days to get mortgage pre-approval. Make sure to do your due diligence and shop around for the best deal and the best lender.

Creating a Wants and Needs List and Browse Listings – 5 Days

Your first list of things you need and want in a home may take you only an hour to create, but once you begin looking at the current listings, you may think of things you need, like specific neighborhoods to be in, school districts you like, and style of homes you’re drawn to.

View Houses – 1 Week-5 Months

Depending on the list of wants and needs you have for your home and the current market, you could find your perfect home quickly, or it could be a couple of months of searching. It’s not uncommon to spend 4-5 months searching before your offer is accepted on a home that meets your needs and some of your wants,

Make an Offer and Negotiate – 1-5 Days

Depending on the seller and how speedy they are to respond to your offer, this may be a quick period in the timeline or take a few days. If they reject your offer or make a counteroffer, this can also draw out the process.

Get Loan Approval – 1-2 Months

If you’ve been pre-approved for your mortgage, your real estate agent will gather the paperwork needed for your lender to approve your loan. On average, this takes about 45 days to come through, but it could be faster or slower, depending on the market.

Have Your Home Appraised – 1-2 Weeks

Your lender will hire an appraiser to evaluate the true value of your home. Once the appraiser comes out, it usually takes about three days to get the report back.

Get a Home Inspection – 1-3 Weeks

The home inspector will determine if there are any unexpected surprises and things of note that may need to be addressed before buying the home. You usually have about a 10-day period to conduct an inspection, and you’ll have the report back within 24 hours. It could take a few weeks to renegotiate the contract if any unexpected problems arise from the inspection report.

Closing – 1 Day

After all of those steps have been completed and you’re ready to close, you’ll have one long appointment to hand over your down payment and closing costs and sign a ton of paperwork. Seriously, you may leave with a hand cramp after all the signing, but you’ll officially be a homeowner!

Now, this is just a general timeline of how long it takes to buy a home, but it can certainly be sped up or more drawn out depending on what you’re looking for and what the current market has to offer. If you’re curious about what the Reno real estate market looks like currently and how we can help you buy your dream home, contact the David Morris Group at 775-828-3292!

Local Farmers Markets: Where to Get Fresh Foods in Reno

October 26, 2020/in Lifestyle, Reno Events and Activities, Reno-Sparks Businesses /by Shauna Morris

Fall is coming to a close, and winter is breezing in, so Farmer Markets are closing down soon. Local vendors get together to sell items ranging from produce to handmade crafts and more. Here’s why you should shop at farmers markets and where to find these fresh treasure troves in and around Reno!

4 Reasons to Shop At Your Local Farmers Market

Local food is better for the environment.
Compared to giant conglomerates, local food is, well, local, so it travels a shorter distance. Because of the lack of distance, there are fewer greenhouse gas emissions from truck exhaust or jet fuel.
Farmers market produce tastes better.
Local food comes right off the vine and straight to your market. Can’t get much fresher than that! Compared to conventional grocery stores, the produce would have to travel further, so they have to pick the fruit before it’s mature so it can be mature when it arrives at the store. This means the produce did not reach its full potential for flavor or nutrients. Because of this, sometimes produce that has to travel far is usually genetically modified to travel better. Since they’re engineered to travel better, it sacrifices flavor instead.
You support your local community.
Shopping at local farmers markets means you are directly supporting your community. Another plus is building a community in your neighborhood. Most of the time, people who work in the markets live locally.
Your questions get answered.
Another great perk is being able to ask questions and get answers! Business owners are usually the ones at the tent, so they’ll know about their produce. Owners and farmers can answer questions about price and pesticides quickly rather than hearing no answer from a grocery store.

Where to Find Your Local Farmers Market

Riverside Farmer Market
Where: Riverside Drive at McKinley Arts Center
When: Year-round, Saturday 9 a.m.- 12 p.m.

Bonsai Blue Garden Market
Where: 290 Kietzke Lane
When: Fridays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. until October 30th

Elko Family Farmers Market
Where: 1405 Idaho Street, Elko NV 89801
When: Second through fifth Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. until October 31st

Fernley Farmers Market
Where: 300 Cottonwood Lane, Fernley NV 89408
When: 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. until October 28th

Visit these farmers markets before the season is over! Take advantage of the fresh, locally grown produce before winter arrives. If you have questions about the Reno lifestyle, contact the David Morris Group for more recommendations and insights into the real estate market. We’re more than happy to help you buy or sell your home. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

Fall Decor Ideas That Will Transform Your Home

October 21, 2020/in Lifestyle /by Shauna Morris

Fall is the season that brings cooler temperatures, so it’s important to add warmth to your home. How do you do that? These simple fall decor ideas will transform your home into a cozy oasis that will call your family and friends over to create memories.

Pumpkins, Pumpkins, and More Pumpkins

Adding pumpkins around your home, front door, and back patio can add a fun seasonal flair. Whether you choose to go for a real pumpkin you pick up at a local farm or a fake pumpkin you find at a store, pumpkins of all sizes, colors, and styles brighten up a home.

Light Your Home with Candles

Dimming the fluorescents and brightening your home with a few candles immediately adds warmth to your home. Using scented candles that smell like pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, and bonfires bring in an extra touch of autumn.

Enrich Your Table Decor

Simply switching out your usual dinnerware for goblets and glasses with reds, ambers, and gold accents will bring in the colorful accents found from fallen leaves. Take it a step further by adding a new table runner, moody dinner napkins, and a festive centerpiece.

Texturize with Tartan

Tartan may be just as quintessential as pumpkins are. Bringing in tartan throws, pillows, and tablecloths immediately wraps you in warmth. Those tartan throws are also perfect for spending those brisk afternoons outside enjoying a hot mug of coffee, cocoa, or apple cider.

Strategically Place Straw Bales

Straw bales with a few pumpkins and decorations sitting atop of them can transport people from your front porch to a pumpkin patch. The charming decorations are a great way to welcome guests on your front porch, cozy up the areas around your fireplace, and can double as extra seating on your back patio.

“Show Your Doors, Walls, and Windows Some R-E-S-P-E-C-T” – A-WREATH-a Franklin

That was our creative way of saying that wreaths are a great way to liven up a plain wall, door, or window. You can go for a classic twine wreath with leaves and flowers on it or bring in a personal touch and add a little flair.

We hope these fall decor ideas have spurred some designs to transform your home. If you have any other ideas on how to decorate for the season, we’d love to hear them. Contact the David Morris Group for more recommendations and insights into the real estate market. We’re more than happy to help you buy or sell your home. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

Nothing Compares to the ArrowCreek Community

October 12, 2020/in Reno Neighborhoods /by Shauna Morris

1,600 acres of wide-open land means that you have tons of green space to enjoy on those mild afternoons. You’ll be able to enjoy watching as nature changes each season right from your front and backyard. The 3,200-acre ArrowCreek community is one you’ll want to explore. Don’t believe us? Strap in for a virtual drive-through of a beautiful south Reno community you’ll want to call home.

Homes

With gorgeous green spaces, sprawling golf courses, and some of the best views south Reno has to offer, homes in the ArrowCreek community generally sell above the median market sales price — making them a great investment opportunity.

Homes in the area generally boast large yards and have custom touches. Home lots are still available for anyone hoping to build their own customized dream home.

Amenities

The list of amenities offered in ArrowCreek begins with the community center that features three swimming pools, a year-round hot tub, tennis courts, pickleball courts, basketball courts, bocce courts, playgrounds, fitness rooms, meeting rooms, and more. There are also several miles of trails to explore. Click here for more information on the trails that are closeby.

For the golfers in your family, there are two courses nearby — the Palmer Course, designed by Arnold Palmer, and the Zoeller/Harbottle Course, designed by Fuzzy Zoeller and John Harbottle.

Just under 20 miles away, you’ll find Lake Tahoe. Shopping, dining, and entertainment options are plentiful in this area, and you’ll have all of the amenities of Reno and Tahoe at your disposal, giving you the best of both worlds.

Schools

Schools serving the students in ArrowCreek include Lenz Elementary School, Hunsberger Elementary School, Pine Middle School, and Galena High School — all a part of the Washoe County School District. Also, just outside of the ArrowCreek community are the private Sage Ridge School and nearby Bishop Manogue High School.

ArrowCreek has amazing views of the golf course, mountains, and city. The amazing location and variety of amenities make this neighborhood the perfect place 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.

The Reality of Real Estate: Winning Your Dream Home in a Multiple Offer Situation

October 9, 2020/in Reality of Real Estate, Reno-Sparks Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

In a real estate market with more buyers than sellers, buyers can often be more competitive and put sellers in a position to receive multiple offers. How can you make your offer stand out and help you win your dream home in a multiple offer situation? If you play your cards right, it may not come with a higher price tag either!

1. Appeal to the owner’s reasons for selling.

Something as simple as understanding why the seller has put the home on the market, can help you appeal to the problems they may be facing. Taking the initiative to understand the seller’s point of view and being empathetic to their situation will often win you points and gain you a good first impression from the seller.

2. When it comes to closing, don’t dilly dally.

A quick closing is appealing to many sellers. It’s why many will be enticed by a cash buyer or anyone that is working with a lender that can fast-track the financing. Offering little to no waiting period for closing can make any offer standout.

3. Personalize the offer.

Sellers can drown in a sea of paperwork, especially in a multiple offer situation. Add a personalized note to the seller that pulls at their heartstrings and highlights what you find so special about their home. Many homeowners are sentimental about their house and would like to sell to someone that sees its worth just as much as they do.

4. Be flexible and easy to work with.

In a high-stress situation, the seller is looking for someone that is a breath of fresh air. Be willing to work with the seller and make compromises and concessions. Don’t negotiate over superficial repairs and only sweat the big stuff.

5. More earnest money can sweeten your offer.

Showing serious interest and commitment to buying the home can come in the form of offering more earnest money. You will immediately differentiate yourself from other offers.

Think outside the box and having creative solutions at your fingertips can help you win in a multiple-offer environment. Have questions about how we can help you win your dream home in a multiple offer situation without paying the highest price? Contact the David Morris Group at 775-828-3292.

How to Spend Spooktober in Reno

October 5, 2020/in Lifestyle, Reno Events, Reno Events and Activities /by Shauna Morris

When October starts, every bump in the night makes you wonder if a witch is taking an evening flight. It’s a time for ghost stories, “Monster Mash” dance parties, and maybe even a few movies starring Jason Voorhees. There are so many things to do and different ways to spend Spooktober in Reno. Check out some of our favorite local fall hot spots.

Sierra Safari Zoo

Every weekend in October is Boo at the Zoo. There will be kid-friendly activities like a slide, hay maze, petting zoo, and more. Pro tip: Check out the Spookaroo at the Zoo event on October 30 and 31.

Adelin Family Farms

The family-friendly corn maze, pony/horse rides, pumpkin patch, and U-Pick sunflowers make the Fall Harvest Festival a must-visit, but the Corn Creepers Haunted Attraction and Zombie Paintball make Adelin Family Farms the perfect destination to get into the Halloween spirit.

PumpkinPalooza

Want a little adventure and an activity the whole family can get in on? Check out the Purple Pumpkin Pursuit presented by PumpkinPalooza. Register to receive a special Halloween-themed kit that comes with goodies and clues to help you solve the riddles, find the pumpkins around town, and win a great prize.

West Wind Drive-In

13 Nights of Fright is taking place October 19-31. West Wind Drive-In will be showing family-friendly Halloween flicks as well as some classic horror films. Take your family movie night to the drive-in!

Virginia City

As a city that wears its hauntings as a badge of honor, it would only make sense that they would go all out for Halloween. The month-long celebration is called Hauntober, and there are ghost tours, train rides, and more to enjoy.

Ferrari Farms

The Fall Festival at Ferrari Farms has everything you could ask for. From farm animals to visit to hayrides to hop on to zombie paintball to try, there’s no way your family can leave without smiles on your faces.

Have a fun and festive Spooktober in Reno! If you need more great recommendations on how to spend the month or have questions about the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re more than happy to help you buy or sell your home. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

Which Countertop Should I Choose?

September 29, 2020/in Lifestyle /by Shauna Morris

Kitchens and bathrooms are some of the most common rooms that homeowners decide to renovate. Besides choosing fixtures, accessories, and appliances, you’ll also have to choose the countertops you’ll tie into the design. Below are some common and popular types of countertops you can pick and what you should know about them.

Quartz Countertops

These countertops are engineered from natural quartz and combined with a resin binder. This stone is nonporous, incredibly hard, and never needs to be resealed.

Granite Countertops

The natural stone has great durability and is available in a range of dark and light colors with variations of all kinds. They can be cut with different edges, require very little maintenance, and are easy to take care of. To clean your countertops, you’ll only need soap and water, and granite is heat-resistant, so cooking is a breeze.

Concrete Countertops

Concrete countertops have become more popular, but they are prone to cracking. Repairing cracked concrete is relatively simple, but it can take up to 28 days for concrete to dry and settle.

Marble Countertops

Marble is a softer natural stone that draws the eye, but it can be scratched if you cut directly on it. Because marble is porous, it’s easy to stain, so sealing your countertops regularly is crucial to its longevity.

Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone is known for being very low maintenance and nonporous, so it is stain-resistant, bacteria-resistant, and heat-resistant. It’s recommended that homeowners oil the countertop once a month for the first year to allow the surface to oxidize and allow the patina to develop.

Butcher Block Countertops

Butcher block is made from pieces of wood that are bonded to form a larger slab. They can be sealed or unsealed, but unsealed butcher block countertops must be oiled twice a year. Butcher block is also very porous, so spills need to be cleaned up quickly to avoid staining the wood.

Laminate Countertops

Laminate countertops are very popular in homes constructed in the 80s and 90s, but they’re making a comeback with newer designs that look like more expensive materials. Laminate is nonporous, so it won’t absorb bacteria, never needs resealing, and is easy to clean.

It’s important to choose countertops that fit your lifestyle as well as your home design. If you need more great recommendations or have questions about the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re more than happy to help you buy or sell your home. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

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