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December SunCrest Market Update
Earlier this month, our phones were buzzing with questions from clients wondering if mortgage rates would be impacted from the Federal Reserve’s decision to raise the key fund rate. “If only we had a crystal ball,” was what we found ourselves saying.
It’s important to note that home mortgage rates are not directly tied to the Federal Fund Rate. Revolving lines of credit, on the other hand (think: home equity loans or credit cards) are more closely related. Mortgage rates follow bond yields, specifically the 10-year treasury.
While we don’t have that crystal ball, analysts and economists from organizations like the Mortgage Bankers Association or government-sponsored funders like Fannie or Freddie are predicting that mortgage rates may increase gradually over the next year. Take a peek at the chart below for what they’re predicting. 
FHA Loan Limits Increase Throughout SunCrest
Also this month, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) increased FHA loan limits to both counties within SunCrest boundaries. The FHA loan limit for Salt Lake County is now $312,800 (up from $304,750) while Utah County is $303,600 (up from $293,250).
Our take: There’s no need to hit the panic button; in the big historical picture, mortgage rates are still very low. However, if you believe the predictions, then now is the time to buy and you’ll only pay more interest the longer you wait. We had also hoped the FHA limit changes would be more substantial, but there are still SunCrest homes available that fall in those guidelines, and can be had for minimal down payment.
16039 S. Fielding Hill Lane | Fun, fresh, and functional
$406,000 | 3,743 sq. ft. | 6 beds | 3.5 baths
It was just over a year ago, while visiting their “for sale by owner” SunCrest home, when we met these sellers. You see, whether it’s our listing or not, our eyes are always peeled on SunCrest so we preview every possible property. If it’s happening in SunCrest, we want to know about it. This wasn’t a listing appointment, a pricing opinion, or a sneaky foot in the door; this was, well, just us doing our job.
We viewed the home, we visited, and when asked, we offered our opinion and suggestions. The basement wasn’t finished and the home donned mostly its original finishes and fixtures. When their home didn’t sell after some time on the market they decided to make some changes.
Through emails, phone calls, texts, informal chitchat at SunCrest community events, and eventual follow up visits to the home, our relationship grew. We continued to answer questions, offer advice, and loved the fresh and exciting home that they were creating.
Today, we look back at what the sellers have accomplished and the list is extensive and impressive.
- Fresh Flooring – New carpet and hardwoods (bring on the kiddos or pets).
- Wainscoting Throughout – The sellers especially love it in the common areas.
- Paint – Come on! Who doesn’t love the new house smell and crisp walls?
- Fixtures – We can bring the originals back if “level 1” finishes are your thing?
- Hello, Basement – Star Wars, NFL Playoffs, or your favorite TV series: take your pick. The Bose equipped 7.1 theater room is calling. Two other rooms are perfect for kids, guests, or hobbies.
Walking into rooms with nine-foot ceilings you’ll find the layout to be functional and fun. The kitchen is equipped with double ovens, stainless steel appliances (yours to keep), and a practical island that flows sensibly and seamlessly into the dining and family room. Keep it hush or you’re hosting your next get together. The master bedroom is bigger than you’ve got furniture for and features a four-piece bath—dual vanity, dedicated bathtub, separate shower—and the coolest closet you’ll see on your home search.
Low maintenance front and backyard landscaping with pergola, hot tub, and fire pit means more time for friends, family and you. Maybe use some of that you time hiking from the Maple Hollow trailhead? Just one block northwest.
We’ve been interested in helping the sellers since the “for sale by owner” days, so we were tickled when they put it back on the market and asked us to represent them. We think you’ll love this home, too.
Peek the info sheet, and then drop us a line. We’d love to show you in person.
1852 E. Aspen Leaf Place | Clean as a whistle
$475,000 | 4,083 sq. ft. | 5 beds | 3 baths
Can we talk about goals for a second?
You see, that’s really what we’re all about. We’re not just people you hire to push the paperwork around. We’re not about putting a sign in the yard, latching a key box to the front door, and posting a few pics to the online listing service. Nope. That’s not our gig. Our philosophy runs much deeper. Who are you? What are your goals? Where we are you now? Where do you want to be? When do you want or need to be there? What can we do to help get you there?
When we met with the sellers of this SunCrest rambler, it became clear that we would work on two goals together.
GOAL #1 : Try not to steal their cute, lovable, and “just look at those eyes” dogs.
GOAL #2 – Creatively curate their space to get it ready to sell.
We soon found out goal number 1 was the more difficult goal. Together, we came up with a plan to get their place ready to sell. Peep the pics below, and you’ll see how we helped them take an already great space and perk it up.
Starting with upstairs, we worked in new neutral paint to tie into the impressive 6″ dark manufactured hardwoods. We retired the old white appliances, and updated with matching stainless steel Samsung ones, added a new dazzling mosaic tile fireplace, and new fixtures.
The master retreat, bedrooms, and downstairs all received a makeover worthy of some TMZ gossip. Now the home is all about clean, open spaces and it just shouts “FUNCTIONAL!” from the literal mountaintop.
Our guilty pleasure is the game room (also: family room) or dedicated theater room.
The dogs are safe for now, and we’ve definitely achieved the second goal of getting this property ready for the market. It’s now available, and we’re moving towards the third goal: helping someone find the move-in ready home of their dreams.
Ready to see it in person? We’ll bring the popcorn.
1975 E. Aspen Grove Court | Let the light pour in
The Aspen Grove Court cul-de-sac is no stranger to us. We’ve paraded about this quiet street before, so when we just listed this gem, we were eager to express our fanfare again. Mind if we show you around?
Its impeccable location showcases some of the finest views in our mountaintop community.
The sellers love the kitchen and family room. Can you blame them? Large massive windows let the light pour in.
The wood-burning fireplace is a perfect touch for mountaintop living. Glass of wine or sparkling cider, anyone?
We’re crushin’ on the high ceilings and the loft (or office/playroom) that’s open to the floor below. Channel your inner “Wright Brothers” with a few quick paper folds, then open up a window and let it ride! From here, your paper airplane just may make it to the airport.
The master retreat is, well, just that – a retreat. We’re talking breakfast in bed, a reading nook, or whatever your cozy little heart desires.
A couple of finished bedrooms upstairs, another finished bedroom downstairs and the framed-in basement with a future theater room awaits your latest “pinned” ideas. And remember that loft we told you about? It’s open and airy and the perfect spot for homework, schoolwork, or playing hooky from work.
Ready to see all that light pour in in person? Grab a pair of shades and contact us here.
November SunCrest Market Update
In addition to our hyperlocal SunCrest focus, we’re also involved in national real estate issues. We recently attended the National Association of Realtors conference, a gathering of over 20,000 Realtors. Below we recap a big takeaway from this year’s event.
Shiny new objects
Technology is changing the way the real estate industry operates, and the way Realtors are doing business. From online listing websites, to virtual home tours, to mobile apps that tell you when you’re near a house for sale, there are countless new ways to go about finding or selling a home.
As a consumer, you can now research the entire buying or selling process, sift through listings online, educate yourself about the school system in a neighborhood you’re interested in, or get a “free market analysis in 30 seconds” all from the comfort of your home.
Walking through the trade show this year was quite eye opening. Technology is creating a sense of urgency for Realtors to chase the latest and greatest “shiny new objects” being marketed. We saw everything from online sales leads, apps that predict how likely someone is to sell their home, software that scans your social media posts to find potential clients, and companies that offer to track and communicate with your past clients so Realtors can relax all year long.
Our Take:
Technology streamlines processes and increases education. It empowers buyers and sellers to make the best buying and selling decisions out there. However, just chasing the “shiny new objects” is no replacement for experience and know-how. Not all technology is created equal, and knowing which tools have been proven and which are smoke and mirrors is not always easy. There’s no substitute for sitting down at the table with someone to talk about your personalized options, or having a trusted advisor to help navigate during one of life’s unexpected events. Technology can’t answer the phone to work through a stressful negotiation with you or celebrate with you when you close on your new house.
SunCrest Warm Winter Clothes Drive
We are excited to announce our second “Over The River and Through the Woods” warm winter clothes drive. Last year, we introduced you to the needs of families in the Heber Valley community; a community not too far or too different from ours. Many residents in the Heber community are the backbone work forces in the hotel, ski and tourism industries, often working long hours for low wages. Your response in 2014 was amazing. We gathered over 400 items and when we delivered your donations we saw firsthand the difference you made.
We need your help again! We’re asking residents to donate new or gently used items warm winter clothes including:
Jackets • Coats • Winter Gloves • Winter Hats • Winter Pants • Winter Boots
Here’s how you can help: Drop off anything from the list in the donation bins at the SunCrest Community Clubhouse through November 16th, 2015.
Our 2015 goal is 600 items (a doable 25% increase from ’14). If you’re feeling social, share donations on Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #goal600
This year, we’re excited to bring SunCrest residents an exclusive offer. We’ve teamed up with a great local business, Bake360, to bring every SunCrest household a coupon for a free breakfast pastry* – no purchase necessary. Residents should have received a postcard with the clothes drive information and Bake360 coupon. If not, contact us and we’ll send one out ASAP. Just bring in your postcard and enjoy! (Note: Donating isn’t required to enjoy this offer, but is certainly encouraged.)
Thank you in advance for your warm generosity. Together, we can make a difference.
* Expires 11/30/15 Kouign Amann excluded
October SunCrest Market Update
Have an idea for our next SunCrest Market Update? Submit it here. Want to keep in touch? Subscribe to our newsletter, Facebook, or Instagram.
SunCrest Fall Maintenance Tips
Each year, we provide fall maintenance tips to help prepare your home for the winter season. The coming weeks provide a good opportunity (and perhaps a last opportunity) to prepare your SunCrest home before the first snow flies. Here is our list of helpful fall maintenance tips:
The yard– clean up debris that may have blown in and become stuck in bushes, trees, and window wells. Rake up dead grass and leaves.
Rain gutters– clean out rain gutters and flush with water. Check for any leaks and repair as necessary. With our higher elevation and colder temperatures in SunCrest, clogged rain gutters could cause ice dams.
Roof- check the roof for damaged, missing, or curled shingles. Inspect the flashing and vents. If water penetrates the surface, it can freeze and lead to further damage.
Exterior water– to prevent exterior pipes from freezing, turn off the valves and run the remaining water until pipes are empty. You may also consider using an air compressor to “blow out” the sprinkler system. [NOTE: This may also reduce sprinkler frustration in the spring!]
Inspect the concrete– take steps now to repair damaged driveways, sidewalks or steps. Preventing water from expanding and contracting could help prolong the concretes life.
Exterior windows/doors– check for any peeling paint and re-paint exterior doors and doorframes to help prevent future damage.
Caulk windows & install weather stripping– seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors with caulk and install weather stripping.
Winterize lawn mower and prepare snow blower- clean the lawnmower and add winterizing additives to prepare it for hibernation. Start the snow blower to make sure it works before the first big storm.
Fire it up- run the fireplace and furnace to ensure it’s working properly. You may also consider having a professional inspect the systems.
Our Take:
When selling your SunCrest home, most SunCrest buyers will hire a professional home inspector who is working to protect the buyer’s investment. Taking a weekend or two (or hiring it out) now, will help prolong the life of your home and help with the selling process in the future.
2019 E. Tall Woods Court | Dressed to the 9’s
Fall is one of our favorite times of the year. The leaves are changing, sweater weather is in full swing, and pumpkin flavors are everywhere and in everything.
We just listed this home and think it pairs perfectly with the SunCrest Lifestyle. After all, fall is a phenomenal time to show off the mountain views.
It’s nuzzled up nicely against Gambel Oak on a .43-acre lot. There’s a walkout basement, waterfall, Trex deck, zen path, stamped concrete patio, and flat yard that will leaf you wanting to spend more time outdoors (see what we did there?).
Exploring around inside, you’ll find it’s dressed to the 9’s. Pull out your highlighters and take special note of the massive windows at every turn, for those coveted Salt Lake County views. And the views from deck? So jealous!
Dark, wide-plank-hand-scraped-hickory-hardwoods (sigh!) span the entire main floor. The kitchen has thick, rock pitched granite tops, Electrolux fridge, 5-burner gas cooktop with a handy pot filler, wine and bevvie cooler, and a formal dining room. Home for the holidays anyone?
The master retreat is both classy and cool, and features a walk out to the deck. The other bedrooms also have adjoining bathrooms and large closets.
It’s true main floor living with a formal living room, dining room, laundry, and if you’re working from home, fist pump the air right now–you’ve got two office choices and both are the best seats in town.
The downstairs is definitely not some spooky dungeon. The large windows create “second story” views from the large family room and bedrooms. There’s even room for ping-pong, pool, foosball and a second kitchen off of the downstairs family room.
Relax. With the dipping temps outside, we won’t tell if you want to make up a warm drink and watch “Game of Thrones” for hours. This place has a 108” screen, Sony equipment, and stadium seating. When you’re ready to work off popcorn and soda, walk over (or roll–it’s up to you) to the in-home exercise room.
We’re trying really hard not to use the ol’ “Fall In Love With This House” pun, but c’mon… what’s not to love about it, in any season?
Give us a call or reach us here and we’ll take you through it firsthand. The pumpkin spice latte is on us.
2019 E. Tall Woods Court | 3D SunCrest Home Tour
Perhaps you saw the SunCrest home we listed at 2019 E. Tall Woods Court? A real big [6,597 sq. ft.] beauty in the Tall Woods community in SunCrest. Can we tell you, no wait, SHOW you more of this home?
<pause for response>
Thank you. Check out the 3D tour below. Use your mouse or arrow keys to navigate. Look up, look down, and make yourself at home. Contact us for more info or to see it in person.
[iframe src=”https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=Eq5FyomuoaN” width=”100%” height=”360″]
September SunCrest Market Update
Want to have a say in how SunCrest is (or isn’t) developed? Receive updates through our newsletter, Facebook, or Instagram. Submit your comments to the City website here.
SunCrest Open Space Master Plan
Draper City is currently updating the Open Space Master Plan. At the City’s first open house regarding the matter in September, we saw a glimpse of the possibilities that are being considered. Here are our main takeaways from the event.
Deer Ridge Development
Additional development at Deer Ridge, located in the Southwest corner of SunCrest, may be on hold. It’s unclear if that is a temporary status or a permanent decision. Depending on if you were speaking to consultants assisting with the master plan, or actual City staff, the information wasn’t consistent. The City indicated, as they had done in previous meetings, that much of the infrastructure is in place in Deer Ridge, and the City may look for ways to recoup the costs of the SunCrest purchase and didn’t rule out future development. Consultants however, cited public opinion and surveys that open space and recreation might be the best use of this land. Ideas range from conservation easements, revenue generating uses, and further development of the trail system.
Draper Trails, Trailheads, And Trail System Expansion
The current Draper and Corner Canyon trail systems may be beefed up, in a big way. It’s important to note that nothing specific is underway yet, but the following were discussed:
Edelweiss Trailhead – The current proposed trailhead is now located directly east of Stoneleigh Heights (versus within the future Edleweiss development). Proposed 12-16 parking spots and restrooms.
Hidden Canyon Trailhead – This proposed trailhead would be located directly off of SunCrest Drive and off of the road currently in development for the Hidden Canyon Estates subdivision. This trailhead would be similar to the Orson Smith Trail Head and be completed with restrooms, a small playground, and a pavilion.
Brookside Trailhead – Currently, Brookside Drive is the road that leads to nowhere in Maple Hollow. There is discussion about a new trailhead, with amenities, atop this road and rerouting the Maple Hollow Trail to connect with the Eagle Crest trail.
Our Take:
Many ideas are being tossed around. They range from dog parks, disc golf, campgrounds, sledding hills, chair lifts, and outdoor recreation centers, among others. It’s great to see so many ideas being considered and it will be interesting to see what sticks. In regards to future development, it’s clear the City is being careful of where conservation easements may or may not be placed and what portions may make sense for future development. With 40 acres of (former) City owned land now heading towards development, we’re excited to have a vision for the future.
