sparks real estate | David Morris Group

The Reality of Real Estate: Defining “Pride of Ownership” and How it Plays Into Maintaining Your Home

July 24, 2020/in Reality of Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

If you’ve casually perused home search sites or been on home tours, you’ve likely heard or seen the phrase “pride of ownership.” That sounds like a nice phrase, but a quick Google search shows that some people have a negative connotation associated with it.

As a reliable real estate team who has seen our fair share of homes and homeowners over the years, we use “pride of ownership” to mean that a homeowner has taken great care in maintaining their home. We use it to show that this property stands out to us over some of the others in the area.

What do we look for in a home to label it a property that has “pride of ownership”?

Transformed spaces that are eyesores into useful and beautiful spaces – Think of this as a finished basement, attic, shed, garage, etc. They can often be dark spaces that are used for extra storage, but they are rarely places you want to spend your time. If a homeowner has gone above and beyond to turn it into a functional space for their family, you know that they’ve made the home a personal oasis and took extra care of it.
Unique features that set the home apart from others in the neighborhood – If a home is a custom build home or has things like unique light switches, remote-controlled fireplace, top of the line security system, etc., it shows that the homeowner wanted the home to show their personality and be functional to their lifestyle.
Appliances have been replaced – If the homeowner has recently replaced the roof, fence, A/C, it shows that they wanted to keep the home in great condition for themselves and the next owner. If the owner has also replaced things like the refrigerator, sinks, etc., it shows that the owner wanted the home to reflect their personal style or be more in line with what’s popular in today’s home designs.

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you may just see that there are pretty finishes or lots of square footage, but looking past that can give you a better idea of how the home has been maintained over the years. It also gives you a better idea of the responsibilities you’ll have as the owner.

If the home has a beautiful garden, a finished basement, and a “she shed,” you’ll have more to maintain. You’ll have to make sure the garden isn’t taken over by critters who like to feast on plants, the basement remains sealed from elements so it doesn’t make your home more costly to heat and cool, and ensure the shed is cleaned and used as often as your home to keep it from turning it into a spider shed!

As a first-time homebuyer, it’s crucial to see a home clearly and understand the commitment and responsibility associated with owning your own home. The David Morris Group is always happy to show you the ins and outs of owning a home and help you make the transition from renter to homeowner seamlessly. Give us a call at 775-828-3292.

The History of Hot August Nights

July 20, 2020/in Reno Events /by Shauna Morris

Usually, businesses, hotels, and venues would be prepping for one of Reno’s most well-known events, Hot August Nights. This year the event has been postponed until 2021. This is the first time in its 34 year history that the event has been postponed, but it’s been making its mark on our community’s history for years. Let’s take a look back.

How did Hot August Nights get its start?

On August 1, 1986, the Reno-Sparks Convention Center was hosting a live event featuring the Righteous Brothers, Wolfman Jack, and Jan & Dean. The event drew in thousands of spectators, and the nostalgia of the event had many talking about the classic cars and music of the 50s and 60s. It was decided that it was something that should be celebrated yearly, and because the event took place on a hot August night, the event practically named itself.

The first Hot August Nights was more of a throwback concert in the parking lot of the Convention Center to raise money for local charities, but the nostalgic feeling it brought sparked the idea of what it could be and what it has turned into.

Hot August Nights Now

That first party with 10,000 spectators has now turned into a flurry of festivities taking place throughout Reno, Sparks, and Virginia City at the beginning of August and drawing in over 800,000 people year after year. Hot August Nights continues to breed nostalgia for the 50s and 60s and celebrates classic cars and good ole rock n’ roll music.

Hot August Nights Foundation

The first Hot August Nights was created to help raise money for local charities, and nonprofit work is still a part of the Hot August Nights legacy. They created their own foundation in 2007 in order to provide children in need with funds and resources to help them with their education. The Hot August Nights Foundation helps provide:

Scholarships for secondary education including colleges, trade schools, junior colleges, and vocational schools.
Support to primary schools and its students in areas of economic hardship and, particularly, where children are at risk of not completing their education.
Promotion and support for other worthy educational and assistance programs for in-need and at-risk children.

Reno has a rich history, and we’re proud that Hot August Nights is a part of that history. We’re excited for its return next year! If you have questions about Reno and how the community has evolved through the years, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to share everything we’ve learned about the community and help you begin your home search when the time comes. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

5 Important Things to Know Before Moving to Reno

July 16, 2020/in Uncategorized /by Shauna Morris

If you’ve been contemplating making a move to America’s Best Small City or know someone who is, there are some things you should familiarize yourself with before packing up your home and making the trek to our beautiful town!

1. We’re all about art, and we take our quirky culture seriously!

If you’re an artist or creative free spirit, you’ll feel right at home here. From our massive sculptures throughout the city, eye-catching murals, and variety of performance artists putting on a show, there’s always something to see. We even have a month-long event dedicated to artists called Artown.

2. Taking a lake day every few months is mandatory.

Ok, maybe “mandatory” is a little harsh, but if you get to a point where you can’t remember the last time you were in Tahoe, you’re doing something wrong. The water is every shade of blue you could imagine, and it’s so refreshing in the summer.

3. Keep an ice brush, raincoat, and a few outfit choices in your car.

The weather in Reno is fickle on a good day, and you’re likely to find that the weather in one part of town is completely different than the other. Having items in your car that keep you prepared for any type of weather is a necessity. Trust us, keeping a raincoat and umbrella in your car will save you on more than one occasion, like when the prefect sunny weather changes to thunderstorms in a matter of minutes.

4. Learn how to pronounce Nevada.

You will see bumper stickers that say things like, “It’s Nev-AD-duh, not Nev-AH-duh.” People around here take the pronunciation of Nevada seriously, so be sure to drop the “ah” sound before moving here.

5. What’s traffic?

If you’ve lived in a major city, you may have gotten used to it taking you anywhere from minutes to hours to get you to your destination due to traffic. We’ll tell you now that the “traffic” that some residents speak of is really just slowing down by five mph on I-80. The arrival time estimate that Siri gives you when you type a destination into Google Maps is more or less spot-on.

Reno is a wonderful place to call home, and if you’re looking for more information on what you should know before moving here, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to share everything we’ve learned about the community and help you begin your home search when the time comes. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

The Best Beaches in Tahoe, Reno, and Sparks

June 26, 2020/in Reno Events and Activities /by Shauna Morris

Mild summers, nearly 80% of the year is full of sunshine, and a generous number of outdoor activities make Reno one of the best places to live. As soon as the last bits of the chilly weather moves out, many are looking to break out the sunscreen, towels, and bathing suits for a much-deserved beach day. Below are some of the best beaches in Tahoe, Reno, and Sparks to check out this summer!

Kings Beach State Recreation Area – If you’re looking for a great family-friendly beach with some great shops and restaurants to stop in for lunch, Kings Beach is a great option. With a large stretch of white sand beaches and some of the warmest waters in Tahoe, you’ll love splashing around all day.
Sand Harbor State Park – Spend the day soaking up the sun in some of the bluest waters in Tahoe. Pack sandwiches, snacks, and drinks for a great beach picnic.
Hidden Beach – If Sand Harbor is a little too crowded for you, you may want to check out Hidden Beach. Several areas of this beach are only accessible if you hike in, but the remote beach has some great boulders for sunbathing and jumping into the beautiful waters.
Chimney Beach – Chimney Beach is known for the stone chimney that’s still there from an old caretaker’s cabin. With deeper waters and a challenging hike, it’s a great beach for those looking to burn a few calories while having a fun day on the beach.
Zephyr Cove Beach – Zephyr Cove is one of the larger and more popular beaches in Lake Tahoe. It’s a great place to gather with larger groups. Play a few games of beach volleyball, rent water equipment, and go boating while you’re at Zephyr Cove.
Nevada Beach – Nevada Beach has some great views, which makes it an ideal place to enjoy a picnic or go swimming with friends.
The Sparks Marina – The Sparks Marina has it all. There are walking paths, trees, and sandy beaches surrounding a 77-acre lake that are used for windsurfing, sailing, swimming, scuba diving, fishing, and boating.

There are a lot of great beaches to explore and a ton of outdoor activities to keep you and the family busy all summer long. If you’re hoping to move closer to your favorite beaches or are just curious about what the real estate market looks like currently, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to share everything we’ve learned about the community and help you begin your home search. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

The Reality of Real Estate: The Smaller Details of Home Ownership That Can Have Major Costs

June 23, 2020/in Reality of Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

If you’re thinking about purchasing a home, you’ve likely had your friends, family, and even your lenders talk to you about how much you can afford. You may have budgeted for mortgage payments, home insurance, and even property taxes, but what about pest control, lawn care, and add-ons?

Check out some of the most frequent home costs that people rarely plan for or understand before jumping in:

Cable, phone, and internet costs – Larger homes are notorious for needing wifi extenders or more expensive internet packages to ensure there’s a strong internet connection throughout the home. There can also be added costs if there’s a problem with the wiring, and an electrician has to come out to rewire or repair the lines.
DIY fails, renovations, and add-ons – HGTV has made many people feel empowered to tackle those home improvement projects that they’ve seen on TV or have been dreaming about since they bought the house. Unfortunately, no matter how many hours of Property Brother or Fixer Upper we’ve watched, it likely hasn’t made us contractors, plumbers, or counter installers. Trying to take on large projects may cost you more in the long run if you mess up, ruin materials, and have to call in an expert to fix your mistakes and do the job you originally wanted done.
1. Bonus tip: Add-ons and renovations can cost more than just the parts and labor to get the project finished. They can also increase your property taxes each year. Before starting any major add-on, contact David Morris Group to discuss your plans and how it affects home value.
Pest control – Instead of calling your landlord to spray for bugs or calling an exterminator to take care of any vermin like you did when you were a renter, now it’s your responsibility to pay what can be hefty bills to take care of pest problems. It’s recommended to spend a few hundred dollars to get your home inspected and sprayed every few months to be proactive rather than the thousands it can cost with a full infestation.
Lawn care and cleaning – Many find the added square footage and added outdoor space of a single-family home, while nice, is also hard to maintain by themselves. If you decide to enlist some help to keep your home clean and your lawn from growing too wild, you’ll be looking at a couple of hundred dollars of added expenses each month.

As a first-time homebuyer, it’s crucial to understand all of the costs that you will face as a homeowner and start budgeting for them early. The David Morris Group is always happy to show you the ins and outs of owning a home and help you make the transition from renter to homeowner seamlessly. Give us a call at 775-828-3292.

The Ultimate Renoite Checklist

June 19, 2020/in Reno Events and Activities /by Shauna Morris

Reno continues to draw in people from all over the world, especially as our city develops, and as we see companies open their doors. The Biggest Little City becomes a beacon to big businesses, small startups, and entrepreneurs at heart, but the move to a new city can be daunting. That’s why we’ve put together this checklist of things to do, places to visit, and experiences to make you feel like a Renoite in no time.

Kayak the Truckee River Whitewater Park – Or if kayaking isn’t your thing, grab your floaties and go tubing along the Truckee River!
Try out some of the local breweries and distilleries in the area – We recommend checking out 10 Torr Distilling and Brewing, Brasserie Saint James Brewing, and The Depot Craft Brewery Distillery.
Mountain bike the Flume Trail.
Participate in a Wine Walk.
Have a lazy day in North Lake Tahoe – Bonsai Rock, Sand Harbor, and Chimney Beach are great destination spots.
Watch the sunrise over Emerald Bay.
Participate in a bar crawl.
Have a ski/snowboard day, or at least sip some cocoa in a lodge – There are tons of resorts in the area including Donner Ski Ranch, Squaw Valley, and Mt. Rose.
Have a museum day and learn about the history of some amazing artifacts – Check out the National Automobile Museum, The Discovery, Nevada State Museum, and the Nevada State Railroad Museum.
Soak in some of the most beautiful and relaxing hot springs in the world.
Take a selfie under the Reno arch.
Go coffee tasting and find your favorite local spot – There’s a reason Reno has become one of the biggest coffee cultures in the west. Hub Coffee Roasters, Lighthouse Coffee, and Old World Coffee Lab are great places to start.
Catch a movie at West Wind El Rancho.
Visit the world’s largest all-sports store – Be sure to ride the Scheels Ferris wheel while you’re there!
Take a cruise on South Lake Tahoe’s MS Dixie II.
Hike the iconic “N.”
Catch an Aces game.
Step back in time, and explore the Wild West of Virginia City.

Even if you aren’t a Reno native, you’ll be feeling like a Renoite after completing just a few of the items on this list. If you’re curious about what the Biggest Little City has to offer and you’re considering making the move to Reno, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to share everything we’ve learned about the community, give you a snapshot at the real estate market, and help you begin your home search. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

A Glimpse at Midtown Reno

June 15, 2020/in Reno Neighborhoods /by Shauna Morris

Midtown has been revamped and has transformed over the years. It’s become a hotspot for businesses, residences, and tourists alike. It’s a cultural experience that continues to evolve, grow, and thrive. The eclectic vibe draws many people in, but what is it that makes it such a desirable neighborhood for living, working, and touring?

Character and Charisma Everywhere

The Midtown district has a variety of historic homes that have been around since the ‘20s and ‘30s. These homes are also surrounded by some newer construction homes that again add to the eclectic vibe and draw in buyers of all kinds. With the walkable streets, you’re never far from stumbling upon a quirky coffee shop, funky retailer, or mouth-watering restaurant.

Restaurants, Retailers, and Local Businesses

Reno residents know how important it is to support local businesses, and the city continues to draw in entrepreneurs working to make their dreams of owning their own business and being their own boss a reality. Midtown continues to see a boom in small businesses opening their doors, so if you’re in the neighborhood check out:

Two Chicks – The breakfast menu will blow your mind.
Sierra Belle and Nomad Boutique – If you’re looking for clothes, boots, hats, gifts, they’ll have it in spades.
Junkee Clothing Exchange – There’s never been a more infamous thrift store.
Sundance Bookstore – Bookworms, welcome home.
Old World Coffee Lab – Anytime you need a coffee pick-me-up, Old World is a must.

A Paradise of Art

The murals you’ll find throughout Midtown are just some of the artistic flair you’ll find in the neighborhood. From museums, performing art venues, and galleries, it’s a beacon for those with creativity. If you’re looking to explore a few museums, be sure to visit the Nevada Museum of Art, the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum, and the National Automobile Museum.

Great Schools

Midtown is a part of the Washoe County School District. Families living in Midtown are zoned for Mount Rose Elementary, Swope Middle School, and Reno High School.

If you’re curious about the Midtown area and think it could be a great place to settle down, contact the David Morris Group. We’re happy to share everything we’ve learned about the community, give you a snapshot at the real estate market, and help you begin your home search. Give us a call at (775) 828-3292.

The Reality of Real Estate – The Hidden Costs of Owning and Maintaining a Home

June 12, 2020/in Reality of Real Estate /by Shauna Morris

Buying a house comes with upfront costs as well as recurring monthly costs, but that’s not all. Your home will also have unexpected issues that arise and will take dollars out of your pocket to fix. You have to be ready to make your payments on your residence as well as have a fund set aside to take care of maintaining your property and an emergency fund should any major problems arise.

In fact, these hidden costs of owning and maintaining a home may mean you want to search for a place that costs a little bit less than what the lenders have pre-approved you for. The extra money you save can go towards the new saving accounts you’ll have to open – one for home maintenance and one for emergencies.

How much should you budget for?

There are differing opinions on how much money you should be allocating to your maintenance fund each month. According to Freddie Mac, homebuyers should budget up to 4% of the property’s value in annual maintenance costs. On the other hand, The Balance suggests budgeting to spend at least $1 per square foot of your home in maintenance costs each year. As real estate experts, we advise erring on the side of safety and budget by whichever value is more.

Basic expenses you’ll face as a homeowner.

Your mortgage payment is only the start of the costs you’ll have to pay. Other expenses could include:

Annual property taxes
Landscaping
Hazard insurances
Heating and electricity
Water
Sewer
Internet service/Cable
Property management fees
Private mortgage insurance
Homeowner’s association fees
Replacing appliances

Big-ticket items will eventually need replacing.

It’s likely that at one point or another, your home will need to have appliances and larger housing components replaced. Below are the average life spans of some of the items in your home. (Bonus tip: always find out how long it’s been since items in the home were replaced – it will help you estimate the higher upfront costs you could be facing if something needs to be replaced within months of moving in.)

Roof – 20 to 30 years
Carpet – 8 to 10 years
Linoleum floors – 25 years
Vinyl floors – up to 50 years
Wood, marble, slate, and granite – 100 years
Decks – 20 years if well-maintained
Oil furnace – 20 years
Gas furnace – 18 years
Electric furnace – 15 years
Central air conditioner – 15 years
Gas range – 15 years
Electric range – 13 years
Refrigerator – 13 years
Dryer – 13 years
Freezer – 11 years
Washing machine – 10 years
Dishwasher – 9 years

Tips for keeping your home costs down.

If you’ve found some of this information a little overwhelming, there are things you can do now to help you lower your costs, like:

Get a thorough inspection in advance and take action on the issues that the inspector finds.
Be proactive about fixing items early. Small issues can turn into big issues if not dealt with.
Consider a home warranty plan.
Switch to energy-efficient appliances and improvements whenever you have to replace something.

As a first-time homebuyer, it’s crucial to understand the hidden costs that you will face as a homeowner and start budgeting for them early. The David Morris Group is always happy to show you the ins and outs of owning a home and help you make the transition from renter to homeowner seamlessly. Give us a call at 775-828-3292.

The Ultimate Summer To-Do List

June 10, 2020/in Reno Events and Activities /by Shauna Morris

Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, summer is the designated season for fun, adventure, and family memories. Reno’s summer season may look a little different than what we’re used to, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be a time to remember, especially if you set out to check off the items on our ultimate summer to-do list!

Create your own backyard Olympics – Set up backyard bowling, croquet, mini-golf, and cornhole, and have a gold-en time competing for a medal — pun intended.
Have a backyard movie night – Find a large white space or throw a sheet over your fence in the backyard. Then set up a projector to play your family’s favorite movies. Don’t forget the homemade snacks to much on!
Create your own waterpark – Set up an inflatable pool, slip ‘n slide, and sprinklers to keep everyone cool and having fun during the warmer days.
Build a birdhouse – It’s a staple of many summer camps to teach kids how to build a birdhouse and then decorate it. Spend a couple of dollars on a few birdhouse kits, and make them as a family.
Host an art competition: sidewalk chalk edition – Give everyone in your family a section of sidewalk or driveway to work on, a theme to work with, and a time limit, then see who can create the best piece of art.
Have your own summer concert – Break out the pots and pans, warm up those voices, and have a karaoke night. You may even be crowned the best performance of the night if you decide to be a one-man show who sings, dances, and plays the pans (makeshift drums).
Make your own Hot August Nights – With the recent news to postpone Hot August Nights till next year, it’s up to you to celebrate. Grab crepe paper, balloons, and all your favorite art supplies to decorate your bike, and create your own one-of-a-kind ride for people to admire.
Turn your cardboard boxes into beautiful creations – With a few cuts and colorful markers, you can turn your purchases into houses, cars, and planes.
Have a blind taste test of your family’s favorite foods – Whether your family loves potato chips, gummy bears, or popcorn, there are tons of varieties. Pick up a few different ones, then have the family put on a blindfold as you give them snacks to try and have them rank their favorites.
Camp out in the living room – Spend the day building an epic fort in the living room, then bring out the blankets and pillows for a family camp out complete with stories, snacks, and sweet memories.

We hope you have a wonderful summer, and if you decide to buy or sell your home at any point this season, contact the David Morris Group at (775) 828-3292. We have some great real estate resources for you to use, and we’re always offering helpful information on our blog.

Best Burger Spots in Reno

May 28, 2020/in Reno-Sparks Businesses /by Shauna Morris

Summer is just around the corner, and as the designated season for cookouts, BBQ, and backyard hangouts, it’s only fair to know where you can find the best burgers around town. Let’s be honest, there will be days where you don’t feel like grilling, or you forget about what you’re grilling and can’t serve the charcoal ribs and hot dogs to your family – you know who you are – so have these burger spots in Reno in the back of your mind this summer.

Juicy’s Giant Hamburgers

If you’re a fan of the classics and like to know where you can get an old-fashioned, delicious burger, Juicy’s Giant Hamburgers never disappoints. They have placed in one or more “Best of” contests almost every year since they opened in 1982. Check out their S. Wells and S. McCarran locations.

Beefy’s

Beefy’s menu is iconic, and they’re known for more than just their amazing burgers. With locally sourced ingredients and inventive creations, Beefy’s is a must-try. Don’t believe us? Just check out The Moo, The Cluck, and The Oink or the Famous Chili Cheese Omelette.

Lucky Beaver

Lucky Beaver has been a fan favorite for great burgers and cocktails since they got their start nearly a decade ago. Their burger patties are made from chuck roast and short rib and cooked on their custom grill, making them famous and unlike anything else you’ve tried before. Everything about the Lucky Beaver’s menu is one-of-a-kind.

The Little Nugget Diner

No burger list would be complete without the diner that made the Awful Awful Burger a Reno staple. You’ll find a lot of imitation Awful Awfuls in the city, but why not check out the restaurant that made it famous?

Spend this summer enjoying great Reno burgers, having backyard BBQs, and enjoying the neighborhood you’re a part of. If you’re thinking about moving to a new community before the summer season starts, contact the David Morris Group at (775) 828-3292. We have some great real estate resources for you to use, and we’re always offering helpful information on our blog.

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