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Best Restaurants in Reno-David Morris Group-Real Estate-reno homes-sparks homes

Best Restaurants in Reno

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Best Restaurants in Reno-David Morris Group-Real Estate-reno homes-sparks homes

From perfect steaks to fresh seafood to gourmet soups, Reno has a delicious dining scene.  With Mother’s Day on the horizon, here are a few of the best restaurants in Reno so you can treat the Family CEO to a lovely brunch or dinner!  

Atlantis Steakhouse

Experience the attention to detail and art of unsurpassed service at this award-winning fine dining steakhouse.  Set in a glitzy, casino-based setting, Atlantis Steakhouse is considered one of the best dinner spots in Reno.

Atlantis Sky Terrace Sushi & Oyster Bar

This sushi bar offers a selection of over 50 types of nigiri and maki sushi. The scenic Sky Terrace offers a unique dining experience under the sea! 

Bimini Steakhouse

This tropical-inspired steakhouse is located in the Peppermill resort and has quite the dining room!  With savory, wood-grilled meats, fresh, delicate fish, enticing small plates, and magnificent desserts to choose from, Bimini Steakhouse will not disappoint!  

Beaujolais Bistro

This charming French cafe celebrates authentic French cuisine and French-style cocktails and is one of the most popular restaurants in the Arts District of downtown Reno.

Fourk Kitchen

Experience the best lunch in Reno at Fourk Kitchen.  This formal four-course dining experience with a casual vibe serves a “prix-fixe” menu that changes with the seasons.

Great Full Gardens Cafe and Eatery

The Great Full Gardens Cafe & Eatery in MidTown Reno is a casual restaurant that serves items from local farms and its own greenhouse.  While their menu caters to vegan, gluten-free, and Paleo diets, there are plenty of delicious options for the whole family!  

The Grill At Quail Corners

The Grill at Quail Corners offers an upscale-casual vibe with a stunning view. This restaurant offers a bright atmosphere and courtyard seating to enjoy the surrounding landscape and mountains.

La Strada

Located at the Eldorado Resort Casino, La Strada was voted one of America’s top ten Italian restaurants.  

Laughing Planet Cafe

Laughing Planet Cafe brings healthful, organic, and sustainable food to the Midtown Reno area.  With a philosophy that one doesn’t have to sacrifice taste to eat healthily, this charming cafe is one of the coolest local restaurants.

Peg’s Glorified Ham n Eggs

This family-owned and operated diner serves up comforting American breakfast and lunch.  The charming restaurant offers some of the best egg dishes and sandwiches in Reno.

Squeeze In

The fun and eclectic vibe at Squeeze In is matched by its extensive menu and giant omelets prepared in various ways.  They specialize in breakfast and lunch and offer the best bloody marys and mimosas!

Toucan Charlie’s Buffet & Grille

Toucan Charlie’s Buffet offers a champagne brunch and a buffet like no other!  With eight live-action stations, including Sauté & Grille, Charcuterie, Far East fare, Pho, Seafood, Southwest, Specialty Salads, and Carving stations, you’d better bring your appetite!

Von Bismarck

With two patios and an outside grill, this modern family-style restaurant takes authenticity and tradition seriously with its German and Eastern European cuisine.

If you’d like to stay up to date on what’s happening around Reno, follow our blog, and if you have questions about the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to be your helpful guide. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

 

 

David Morris Group Blog-Reno Real Estate-Sparks Real Estate-buying a home-selling a home-real estate market-real estate professional

Fixed-Rate or Adjustable-Rate Mortgage

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Fixed-Rate or Adjustable-Rate Mortgage-David Morris Group-Reno-Sparks Real Estate-Home Buyer Tips

When shopping for a home loan, the first step is determining which loan type best suits your needs: a fixed-rate or adjustable-rate mortgage.

Fixed-Rate Mortgage

A fixed-rate mortgage remains unchanged throughout the life of the loan by charging a set interest rate. The payments will be the same each month which makes budgeting easier.  A buyer can choose either a 15-year term or a 30-year term.  The term is the time it will take to pay off the loan.  A shorter-term mortgage will have a lower interest rate at a higher monthly payment.  The payment is higher because the borrower must repay the principal amount of the loan in less time. The main advantage of a fixed-rate loan is that the borrower is protected if interest rates rise over the life of the loan.  The downside is that when interest rates are high, the payments are less affordable, making it more challenging to qualify for a loan.  Another downside is that borrowers are locked into their interest rate if interest rates drop.  The homeowner will have to refinance their existing loan to take advantage of lower interest rates, which can be a cumbersome process.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)

An adjustable-rate mortgage will change over the life of the loan based on market interest rates.  Initial interest on an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is set below the market rate for a fixed time.   The fixed period could be anywhere from one month to seven years.  Once the fixed period ends, the loan will reset to a new interest rate based on current market rates.  When the loan resets, the homeowner’s monthly payments could increase or decrease, and they will be locked in until the next reset.  

Low initial payments could enable the borrower to qualify for a larger loan.  If market rates drop, the borrower will have lower monthly payments due to lower interest.  However, if market rates go up, so does the monthly payment.  An adjustable-rate mortgage may be a good choice if you know you’re going to move within a short period and won’t live in the home long enough for the term to change.

Adjustable-rate mortgages are not as straightforward as fixed-rate mortgages. Before jumping in, ask the following questions:

  • How soon will the payment change?
  • How frequently will the interest rate adjust?
  • Is there a cap on how high the interest rate could go?
  • Is there a limit on how low the interest rate could go?
  • What direction are interest rates heading today, and will that trend continue?

When choosing a mortgage, you need to consider the economic realities of an ever-changing market.  If interest rates are high and expected to fall, an adjustable mortgage will take advantage of the drop. However, if interest rates are low, run the numbers to determine the worst-case scenario.  If a predictable monthly payment is important to you, a fixed-rate mortgage may be the way to go.  If you are not sure which mortgage is right for you, your mortgage broker will be able to help.

If you would like some more information about buying a home, or if you’re looking for a great REALTOR® to show you around the Reno-Sparks area, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to be your helpful guide. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292. 

 

 

Questions to Ask Your Mortgage Broker-David Morris Group-Reno Sparks Real Estate

Questions to Ask Your Mortgage Broker

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Questions to Ask Your Mortgage Broker-David Morris Group-Reno Sparks Real Estate

Mortgage brokers and mortgage lenders often get confused as the same entity; they are not.   The mortgage lender is the financial institution that approves the amount of financing and lends funds with the expectation of repayment. It is wise to shop around before committing to a lender, which is where the mortgage broker comes in. 

 

The mortgage broker is an advocate who acts as an intermediary between the borrower and various lenders.  They shop around on the borrower’s behalf to minimize the hassle of going back and forth from one lender to another.  The mortgage broker’s function is to educate you, advocate for you, and find the best loan option.  

 

There are four questions your mortgage broker should answer explicitly:  

  1. Who pays the broker fee?
  2. What is the best interest rate?
  3. What are the down payment options?
  4. What are the closing costs?

Who pays the broker fee?

It’s important to ask upfront who pays your mortgage broker’s fees. Many mortgage lenders will pay the broker fees, but that can create a conflict of interest.  The broker might charge you directly for their fee. Ask exactly how much the broker’s commission is and who is responsible for payment.

What is the best interest rate?

Ask your broker about the best interest rate for your situation. Your rate will depend on your debt-to-income ratio, loan repayment history, factors surrounding the property you’re seeking, and credit factors. The mortgage balance, loan term, and interest rates for which you qualify will determine your monthly payment. Ask questions until you are absolutely positive you understand your exact APR, do not accept a guesstimate.

What are the down payment options?

The down payment is the cash you will need to pay upfront to purchase a property. While lenders prefer a 20 percent down payment, different loan types and programs are available to help lower the cost.  Your broker should be willing and able to explain every option and scenario.   

What are the closing costs?

There are multiple fees involved in the home-buying process. Each lender may charge different amounts, which will affect how much money you need to bring to closing. Ask your mortgage broker about fees for things like inspection reports, credit reports, origination fees, the appraisal, home inspection, and titling.  The broker should compare fee structures between lenders to help you find the one that best meets your needs.  

 

A mortgage loan is usually the most significant purchase in one’s life, and it’s essential to have an advocate that you can trust. The mortgage broker you choose should be your guide to navigate through the various lending scenarios and find you the best possible option.  They should be knowledgeable, patient, and willing to work diligently on your behalf.

 

If you would like more information about buying a home, or if you’re looking for a great REALTOR® to show you around the Reno-Sparks area, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to be your helpful guide. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

 

 

Things to Do Outside in the Reno Area-David Morris Group Realty-Reno Sparks Real Estate-Things to do in Nevada

Things To Do Outside in the Reno Area

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Things to Do Outside in the Reno Area-David Morris Group Realty-Reno Sparks Real Estate-Things to do in Nevada

The spring equinox was on Sunday, March 20th, which marked the first day of spring!  Now that the weather will be getting more agreeable, it’s time to get outside!  Here is a list of fun, free outdoor activities to enjoy with friends and family.

HUNTER CREEK TRAIL

The Hunter Creek Trail is situated within 20 minutes of Downtown and Midtown Reno, and locals refer to it as the best urban area hiking trail in Reno.  This trail is one of the most popular hikes due to its gorgeous mountain views and a spectacular 30-foot waterfall!  A waterfall in the high desert is a rare find, but this one runs all year and makes a picture-perfect end to a hike in the Sierra foothills. The 6.4-mile trail is mainly used for day hiking and trail running from April through October.  It’s dog-on-a-leash friendly and an easy-to-moderate hike.

IDLEWILD PARK

Idlewild Park features a skate park, free sports fields, rentable picnic shelters and a barbecue area. This 49-acre park is located on the Truckee River just west of downtown. The park has access to the river and there’s a water play feature for children.  There are free parks for children with fun equipment for them to enjoy.  The park also offers a beautiful rose garden, public sculptures and the seasonal Idlewild swimming pool. There is plenty of parking in many areas of the park. Idlewild is home to Reno Earth Day, held April 24th this year, and the Food Truck Friday food truck festival on Friday evenings will kick off in June

RIVERWALK AND ARTS DISTRICT

The Reno Arts District is a safe, fun and friendly area that celebrates Reno’s art, culture and history.  Here you will find a medley of great restaurants, bars, shopping areas, bistros and cafes, and a walkway along the Truckee River.  The central point of this area is Wingfield Park, located on an island in the middle of the river. The Riverwalk offers a Reno Wine Walk every third Saturday of the month, and this district is close to the National Automobile Museum and the Nevada Museum of Art.

MIDTOWN DISTRICT

The Midtown District of Reno is just south of Downtown and offers a variety of restaurants, bars, cafes and shops. Midtown has hundreds of public artworks and murals. You can spend a whole day just walking around this eclectic and funky part of town!  You can hear and participate in musical jams, get your foodie fill at one of the wonderful restaurants, do some antique shopping or pick up some Burning Man gear at one of the unique boutiques!  Midtown has regular special events like the annual Art Walk, monthly mural tours, and First Thursdays.

There is no shortage of things to do in Reno and it’s time to get out and about and enjoy!  To stay up to date on what’s happening around Reno, follow our blog, and if you have questions about the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to be your helpful guide. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

 

 

Its Almost Time to List Your Home-David Morris Group-Reno-Sparks Real Estate

It’s Almost Time to List Your Home!

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Its Almost Time to List Your Home-David Morris Group-Reno-Sparks Real Estate

The perfect moment to list is just a few weeks away!  If you’re thinking about putting your home on the market, there’s a special week quickly approaching that you won’t want to miss! How do we know when that is? Realtor.com® told us in their fourth annual Best Time to Sell Report. According to their data, the best week of 2022 to list your home is April 10-16. Sellers who list during this week will benefit from a Spring buying season trifecta of strong demand, high asking prices, and quick home sales. 

 

According to Realtor.com® Chief Economist Danielle Hale, “Homeowners who are thinking about selling this Spring still have time to get ready, with the majority of recently surveyed sellers indicating that listing preparations took 2-12 weeks.” However, now is the time to start checking your checklist and doing your to-dos!

 

How Good Is It?

Realtor.com® number crunchers predict, “Sellers who list from April 10-16 could secure asking prices that are 10.9% higher than at the start of the year and 1.4% above the average annual listing price, based on 2021 trends.” Realtor.com® also predicts that the low inventory and high demand for new homes could drive asking prices up more than 10% relative to initial asking prices in January of this year, that’s around $39,000 more!  

 

So far in 2022, we’ve seen a record-breaking January, followed by a crazy-fast February. Sellers who list their homes during “Listapalooza” can expect more offers and bidding wars, resulting in higher asking prices and a faster sale than if you list later this year.

 

How Do They Know?  

It’s in the numbers! In 2021, April 10-16 was a record week for an already hot market. On average, homes listed in this particular six-day period received 29% more views on Realtor.com® than the average week and sold six days faster than the average for the year. During this same week, homes sold 27 days faster last year than they did in 2019 BC (Before COVID).

 

Mortgage rates have been rising and will continue to do so. That adds fuel to the fire for buyers hoping to find the right home and lock relatively affordable mortgage payments before it’s too late.

 

New inventory is on the horizon. Builders have been accelerating production in an effort to progress against the supply gap. As the bottleneck of supplies begins to open and the price of materials begins to stabilize, new homes will add more inventory. More inventory will moderate the demand and bring listing prices down. 

 

Let the countdown begin!  If you’re ready to take advantage of “Listapalooza,” contact the David Morris Group | (775) 828-3292, and we’ll help you get ready for market! 

 

 

David Morris Group - Where to Ring in 2022 in Reno - New Years Celebrations in Reno - Reno New Years Eve Events 2021 - Reno New Years Events 2022

Where to Ring in 2022 in Reno

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David Morris Group - Where to Ring in 2022 in Reno - New Years Celebrations in Reno - Reno New Years Eve Events 2021 - Reno New Years Events 2022

Are you ready to say sayonara to 2021? Well, the countdown has officially begun until 2022 is here. Send 2021 off on a high note and welcome the new year in style. Check out where to ring in 2022 in Reno, and have a very happy and safe New Year’s.

Bass Camp Presents Borgore New Year’s Eve 2022

Cargo Concert Hall is putting on a big celebration for New Year’s featuring Borgore, JAWNS, GAWM, and Audio Stasis.

Burlexque

Enjoy a glam and fun New Year’s Eve celebration at LEX Nightclub inside the Grand Sierra Resort.

Downtown Fireworks Show

When the clock strikes midnight, a spectacular fireworks show will take place over Virginia Street and the Reno Arch.

El Raj and Oh Lonesome Ana New Year’s Party

The local bands, El Raj and Oh Lonesome Ana, and a vinyl DJ will keep you dancing at Matador Lounge until it’s time to ring in the new year.

New Year’s Celebrations at THE ROW

There are several New Year’s celebrations happening at THE ROW, including VIP parties at NoVi, Brew Brothers, El Jefe’s Cantina, and Rum Bullions, as well as no-cover celebrations at Roxy’s, Silver Baron, Aura, and Cabaret.

New Year’s Eve at Wild River Grille

Plan for an amazing night enjoying a five-course gourmet dinner with a complimentary glass of champagne at Wild River Grille. The menu has so many great options, including Creole shrimp bisque, braised short rib croquettes, and citrus herb lamb chops.

New Year’s Eve Dining at Atlantis

Don’t worry about cooking on the last day of the year. Instead, go and check out the four-course dinners in Bistro Napa and Atlantis Steakhouse or the fabulous steak and seafood feast at Toucan Charlie’s Buffet & Grille.

Reno 54 ~ A Swagged Out New Year’s Eve Shindig

Dancers, aerial performers, and live music will all be a part of the New Year’s celebration at Record Street Brewing. There is also a prix fixe menu for New Year’s Eve if you’d like to end 2021 with a delicious meal.

 

No matter how you spend the last day of 2021 or where you ring in 2022 in Reno, we hope you reflect on the good memories you made and can look forward to some exciting new opportunities in the new year.

 

If you’d like to stay up to date on what’s happening around Reno, follow our blog, and if you have questions about the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to be your helpful guide. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

 

 

 

David Morris Group - Winter Tree Care Tips - How to Take Care of Trees in Winter - Reno Tree Arborist - Reno Tree Doctor - Reno Real Estate

Winter Tree Care Tips

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David Morris Group - Winter Tree Care Tips - How to Take Care of Trees in Winter - Reno Tree Arborist - Reno Tree Doctor - Reno Real Estate

Winter is often a season that has everyone neglecting their yards and their trees, but there are actually some things you should be doing to keep the outside landscaping looking beautiful and get ready for a stunning spring. Check out the winter tree care tips we’ve learned from our friends at Noah’s Park Tree Care!

The Benefits of Winter

Winter is actually a great time to spend some time taking care of your trees as it brings advantages like increased structural visibility, decreased stresses, decreased chances for pest infestation, and increased fruit production. With the shedding of a tree’s leaves, it’s much easier to look at the structure of the tree and gives you some insight into the health and the needs of the tree. Pruning is also much easier to take care of in the winter as trees are dormant and less likely to take on any stresses from the foliage loss.

Identifying a Dead Tree vs. a Dormant Tree

Are you wondering if you have a dead tree or a dormant tree on your hands? There are some things you can do to check!

  • Do you see any signs of budding? – A dormant tree will still have signs of small leaf buds in the dead of winter. They’re just waiting for spring to bloom. You’ll want to check each branch as branches with no buds or buds that are dry and shriveled could be signs of a dead branch and a tree in trouble.
  • Is your tree shedding its old bark and getting a new skin? – Just as leaves fall off and will grow back, tree bark does the same thing. Dormant trees will show signs of new bark, while a tree that is in trouble will show signs of shedding a layer but not replacing it. Be sure to also check for cracks in the trunk.
  • What’s under your tree’s twigs? – Grab a knife and scratch off a spot on a twig on your tree. In a dormant tree, the twig should be moist and bright green, while a tree in trouble will show a brittle, brown layer. Try this on a few twigs around the tree to get a complete view of your tree’s overall health. Another test you can perform is to bend a few twigs. If they break and are crunchy, they’re dead branches.

If you’re looking for a knowledgeable and great team to care for your trees, contact Noah’s Park Tree Care at (775) 376-0917. They offer winter inspections to help you identify if your trees are healthy and how to ensure they grow strong come the spring!

 

If you’d like to stay up to date on what’s happening around Reno, follow our blog, and if you have questions about the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to be your helpful guide. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

 

 

 

David Morris Group - Local Businesses that Make Great Gifts - Reno Small Businesses - Shop Local in Reno Nevada - Reno Real Estate - Reno Businesses

Local Businesses that Make Great Gifts

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David Morris Group - Local Businesses that Make Great Gifts - Reno Small Businesses - Shop Local in Reno Nevada - Reno Real Estate - Reno Businesses

Hoping to spend more time shopping local in 2022? There are some amazing local businesses that offer some phenomenal gifts everyone would love to receive in the new year. Check out our guide to local businesses that make great gifts and treat your loved ones (or yourself) to something unique.

Toys for Children and Children at Heart

  1. K/D Empire – 433 Pyramid Way
  2. Kelekia Toys and Gifts – 3886 Mayberry Dr.
  3. Learning Express Toys – 197 Damonte Ranch Pkwy D.
  4. The Lark – 538 W. Plumb Ln. Ste. C
  5. Toys N More – 4809 Kietzke Ln. Suite C.

For the Art Lover

  1. Art House – 255 Crummer Lane
  2. Nevada Fine Arts – 1301 S. Virginia St.
  3. Wedge Ceramic Studio – 2095 Dickerson Rd.

For the Sustainable Shoppers and Carbon-Conscious

  1. Down to Earth Composting
  2. Replenish Refillery and Gift – 50 S Virginia St. Suite 3
  3. Sierra Water – 2055 Dickerson Rd.
  4. Waste Less Shop – 7300 Rancharrah Pkwy Suite 120

For the Old Soul and Vintage Collector

  1. Bad Apple Vntg – 1001 S Virginia St.
  2. Junkee Clothing Exchange and Antique Store – 960 S. Virginia St.
  3. Red Chair – 3400 Lakeside Dr.
  4. The Nest – 201 Keystone Ave.
  5. The Vassar House – 221 Vassar St.

For the Avid Readers and Music Aficionados

  1. Golden Owl Bookshop
  2. Grassroots Books – 660 E Grove St.
  3. Recycled Records – 822 S. Virginia St.
  4. Sundance Books and Music – 121 California Ave.

For the Fashionista

  1. Nomad Boutique – 736 S. Virginia St.
  2. Sierra Belle – 726 S. Virginia St.
  3. Wildwood Trading Post – 733 S. Virginia St.

There is no shortage of amazing local businesses to support in the Reno area. When you have a birthday, celebration, or holiday that springs up, keep these businesses in mind. If you’d like to stay up to date on what’s happening around Reno, follow our blog, and if you have questions about the Reno real estate market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to be your helpful guide. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

 

 

 

David Morris Group - Reno-Sparks Holiday Light Displays and Events - Christmas in Reno - Christmas in Sparks - Holidays Events in Reno - Holiday Events in Sparks

​​Reno-Sparks Holiday Light Displays and Events

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David Morris Group - Reno-Sparks Holiday Light Displays and Events - Christmas in Reno - Christmas in Sparks - Holidays Events in Reno - Holiday Events in Sparks

Twinkling lights and Christmas trees will soon be on display everywhere, just as radio stations will be playing the soundtracks of the classic Christmas crooners. Getting into the holiday spirit isn’t hard when you live in the Reno-Sparks area, and there are so many events and activities to keep your calendar full throughout December.

Holiday Light Displays

Holiday Events

We hope that your season is merry and bright! Spend some time enjoying the twinkling lights and the various holiday events that Northern Nevada is known for. If you need any recommendations on the best holiday celebrations around town or if you’d like to talk about buying or selling a home in the new year, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to be your helpful guide. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

 

 

 

 

David Morris Group - New Home Builds - Increased Costs and Longer Timelines - New Home Construction in Reno - New Home Builds in Reno NV - New Homes for Sale in Reno

New Home Builds – Increased Costs and Longer Timelines

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David Morris Group - New Home Builds - Increased Costs and Longer Timelines - New Home Construction in Reno - New Home Builds in Reno NV - New Homes for Sale in Reno

Across the nation, home building projects are increasing, and permits are being put in to expand communities. The same is happening in Northern Nevada, but the COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on the supply chain, pushed back deadlines, increased costs, and made new home builds a lengthier and costlier process.

 

Reno home builders have received various letters alerting them to price increases on the materials they need to complete a project, price increases on labor and truck rental fees, and extended timelines to receive materials.

 

The pandemic accelerated the housing demand in Reno. In part due to Reno’s growing economy and ability to bounce back during hard times, the increase in millennials starting families and joining the home search, and the rise of remote working positions allowing people to live in cheaper cities while working for companies with headquarters in more costly states.

 

The need for new homes is only increasing, and the supply of homes on the market is at a standstill. Freddie Mac released an estimate at the end of 2020 that said the U.S. housing market was short 3.8 million single-family homes, roughly 50 years behind in supply levels needed to meet the long-term demand.

 

Unfortunately, builders are facing hardships to not only obtain the supplies they need but to find the workers they need to complete their jobs. Construction costs have increased roughly 20% to 25% in the last year and a half, and it’s not just lumber that builders are having a hard time getting their hands on. It’s vinyl, garage doors, concrete, appliances, and more.

 

While it is a challenging time for home builders, new developments are still in the works to meet the estimated population increase of 100,000 residents coming to the Reno-Sparks area in the next decade. This projection comes from the Northern Nevada Economic Planning Indicators Committee. There’s still a big push for new homes in the Reno area, and the Reno real estate market is expected to remain strong for the foreseeable future.

 

If you need more information on what this means for the Reno real estate market, or if you need to buy or sell a home in the current market, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to be your helpful guide. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.