SunCrest Homes January 20, 2016

15296 S. Laurel Bluff Cove | Views for days

 $429,000 | 3,674 sq. ft. | 5 beds | 3 baths 

I wanted to title this post, “View’ve Got To See These Views,” but I was voted down. The compromise was that I got one paragraph to drop as many cheesy view puns as possible. Ahem… without further a-view, let’s begin:

View have got to see the scenery from this home! Have-view ever piloted a 747? Very view people people get to see that view-tiful sight, but view can — if view own this house. View won’t believe your eyes! Your friends will say, “View’ve got to be kidding me!” when they visit.

Now that’s out of the way, let’s really get into this…

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard “I want a home with a view.” What I can tell you is that views like these don’t come around too often and, well, we’re pretty excited to be involved with this home.

Its private driveway location means you have that jaw-dropping scenery almost all to yourself. Your own private view comes with nearly a quarter of an acre yard and a trio (!) of decks to enjoy it.

You won’t abandon those views by going inside. The intelligently designed layout keeps natural light, nature, and the views at top priority.

Soak up that Utah County and mountain scene from the open concept kitchen and family room. Having everyone in the same room when you entertain is a plus in our book.

The master retreat sits squarely on the back of the home, so you can enjoy sunsets from the plush comfort of your bedroom.

Downstairs offers plenty of space to stretch with three bedrooms, a full bath, and a monstrous walkout family room that delivers you right back to those sweeping southern vistas.

View You really ought to see it in person. Bring you camera, and it set it to panoramic mode, for sure.

PROPERTY FLYERFULL LISTING | SCHEDULE A TOUR 

SunCrest Homes January 7, 2016

16038 S. Fielding Hill Lane | Sweet views, sleek interior

 $339,900 | 2,817 sq. ft. | 4 beds | 2.5 baths 

Location. You hear it all the time in real estate. There’s a reason it’s usually top priority on people’s lists: It matters. And this home nails it.

We love the sweeping views of the Maple Hollow corridor from this modern SunCrest 2-story. We’ll even let you in on a little secret. Living here means you can enjoy nature and wildlife from your back deck, all four seasons of the year.


Inside you’ll find that the sellers upgraded the flooring on both the main and second story to real hardwoods, with an oh-so-sleek gray wash. That makes cleaning up after kids, pets, or yourself a breeze.

Whether you’re whipping up a delightful dish in the gourmet kitchen (think: built in GE Profile 5 burner gas stove, double ovens, and plenty of counter space) or hanging in the comfortable main floor family room; natural light and Mother Nature are right outside your back door. Friends and family will likely overstay their visit, but, can you blame them?

The sellers carried those sleek hardwoods to the master bedroom. Yep, we’re a fan! How about breakfast in bed from the master? Mountain views pair real nice with a hot cup of joe.

Three other bedrooms, another full bath, and laundry room balance the upstairs layout.

Downstairs you’ll find a theater room and flex space for game nights, kids area, or whatever you’d like.

On its own? Stunning. Packaged in this incredible location? You really ought to see it for yourself.

PROPERTY FLYERFULL LISTING | SCHEDULE A TOUR 

SunCrest News January 5, 2016

SunCrest | Above the inversion

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After nearly a week of prolonged hacking, coughing and feeling like I couldnt get any air into my lungs; I decided to visit the Draper IHC Instacare.

I thought I was the only one with this crackling cough until I sat in the waiting room for few minutes and heard the roars of coughs. My diagnosis? Not pneumonia, bronchitis or RSV. The doctors opinion was that it was likely environmentally induced. Wait for it… the inversion!

Interestingly (and timely), I saw an article in the Salt Lake Tribune yesterday discussing the risks the inversion brings with air quality and exercise. Give it a read by clicking here.

At just over 6,000 feet, this time of year is a nice reminder of the lifestyle we enjoy living on the hill.

Just how bad it is? Check the photos below, and then follow us on Instagram for daily photo updates.
SunCrest Market Updates December 30, 2015

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. Mortgage Rate Projections

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.

SunCrest Homes December 28, 2015

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.

PROPERTY FLYERFULL LISTING | SCHEDULE A TOUR 

SunCrest Homes December 16, 2015

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.

SunCrest Homes December 2, 2015

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.

SunCrest Market Updates November 25, 2015

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.

SunCrest Real Esate

SunCrest RealtorShiny 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 News November 4, 2015

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
SunCrest Market Updates October 27, 2015

October SunCrest Market Update

Have an idea for our next SunCrest Market Update? Submit it here. Want to keep in touch? Subscribe to our newsletterFacebook, 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.