Home values surging in northern Utah counties

KAYSVILLE -- Home values continue to rebound from the aftermath of the Great Recession, with most homeowners in Davis County once again back to pre-recession values. Morgan and Weber County homeowners are just shy of where their homes were valued in 2009 before the bottom fell out of the market.

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The figures are particularly promising in Davis County where the median sales price for a home is up 9.4 percent over 2012 sale prices, according to officials with the Northern Wasatch Association of Realtors.

In 2009, the median home value in Davis County based on sales was $205,500. That same median value in 2013 is now $209,000, according to the association's tracking figures.

One of the reasons Davis County has been able to rebound a little quicker in getting back to its 2009 home values is because of its proximity to Salt Lake City for job commuters, officials said.

But Weber County isn't far behind, with a 9 percent increase in home values over 2012. Before the bottom dropped out, in 2009, $155,300 was the median home sale value. It's back up to $150,000 in 2013.

The typical Utah home lost 8 percent of its value during the Great Recession based on recent estimates released by the U.S. Census Bureau on Nov. 7, said Stephen Handy, providing marketing for the Realtors association.

But the Northern Wasatch market areas of Davis, Weber and Morgan counties all reveal an increase in the price of homes over last year, Handy said.

Morgan County has experienced the smallest gain in home values at 7.4 percent over 2012, but it has the highest median home sale value of the three counties.

Median home values in Morgan County are now at $251,000, which is still $9,000 short of where they were in 2009.

But association officials are optimistic homeowners will continue to recapture the ground they lost, and possibly surpass it.

"(Based on) all indications, we are going to continue to creep up," said Christy Vail, association president.

"(Home values) could still see another 6 percent rise through 2014," Vail said, making it a strong market for both buyers and sellers.

The low interest rates -- about 4 1/2 percent -- also make it a favorable climate to buy a home, she said.

Vail said the current interest rates are amazing when compared to the 1980s when rates were as high as 15 percent.

"Given our unemployment rate continues to drop, 2014 will be a great year for both sellers and buyers," Vail said.

Homes currently selling well in Davis and Weber counties are higher-end units in the $350,000 range, and those homes referred to as a "second move-up," with values ranging between $200,000 to $300,000.

Based on its location, Morgan County's home values remain slightly less than those in Weber and Davis counties.

"There has been a lot of growth (in Morgan County), no question. But the secret is not yet out of the bag what a great place it is," Vail said.

But another association official said sampling size is the only difference between Morgan, Weber and Davis counties.

Morgan County home values are 2 percentage points lower than its neighboring counties due to it being smaller, having fewer home buying transactions, association CEO Mike Ostermiller said.

The smaller sampling lends itself to the percentages in Morgan County swinging more dramatically in the event a home sale falls through, or is approved, Ostermiller said.

"As a general rule, I would say the market is similar (in Morgan County)," he said.

Because of increasing home values, Vail said, the association has also noticed an uptick in the number of people entering the real estate profession. "That is as encouraging as well," she said of how a strong home market benefits the job market.

Vail said it is always fun to see new people, some college graduates, recognize the earning potential of being a Realtor.

http://www.standard.net/stories/2013/12/10/home-values-surging-northern-utah-counties

Top 10 Emerging Ski Towns [National Geographic]

“These ten North American ski towns may not have the name recognition of the world’s best-known destinations, but that’s just fine with them. These are the local’s favorites, the up-and-comers. They’re real towns, often cheaper and friendlier than the big dogs—at least for now. If you’re on the hunt for great skiing without the crowds and glitz, read on.” — Aaron Teasdale

Top Ten Emerging Ski Towns:

1: Ogden, Utah

Best For: Utah powder seekers who don’t like crowds

2: Reno, Nevada

Best For: Mixed groups of hard chargers, beginners, and nonskiers who’d rather do their gambling off the slopes

3: Revelstoke, British Columbia

Best For: Vertical-devouring powder hounds with movie-star ambitions

4: Nelson, British Columbia

Best For: Those seeking an off-the-trodden path, powder-smothered destination that’s more about relaxed authenticity than thread count

5: Sandpoint, Idaho

Best For: Non-extreme skiers and boarders seeking the famed tree skiing of the Selkirks without the trip to Canada

6: Driggs, Idaho

Best For: Families seeking virtually guaranteed powder in a salt-of-the-earth ski town

7: Mammoth, California

Best For: Cliff huckers and park rats looking for California sunshine on one of America’s best big mountains

8: Red Lodge, Montana

Best For: Families looking for an inexpensive Rocky Mountain ski vacation in the wilds of Montana

9: Waitsfield, Vermont

Best For: Eastern skiers and boarders seeking a classic New England skiing experience

10: Durango, Colorado 

Best For: Budget-minded families with multisport inclinations and a taste for the Southwest

http://adventure.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/trips/best-emerging-ski-towns/

BUILD YOUR OWN PERGOLA

Here's a structure that won't provide shelter from wind or rain, and is only marginally better when it comes to the midday sun. So, why build it? Because in the absence of walls and a roof, it defines an outdoor space without constraining it. It's a unique architectural blend that places you both inside and out at the same time. The structure is called a pergola, and it's just the thing to bring backyard landscaping to life. Pergolas were common features of Italian Renaissance gardens, often covering walkways or serving as grape arbors. Today, the same design can be used to define a passageway or frame a focal point in your yard. Add a climbing plant such as wisteria or, yes, grapevines, and your pergola will provide color and shade as well. 

Read more: How to Build a Pergola - DIY Building a Pergola - Popular Mechanics

Here We Geaux Tigers! Here We Geaux!!

This is going to be a great game - except for the CBS commentators :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-osdUijamyk

Price Reduction - Clinton, Utah

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PRICE DROP! Beautifully cared for 4 bedroom, 2 bath home. Updating includes: heating/A/C, some windows, some flooring, 50 gallon water heater, disposal, extra attic insulation, garage door opener, master bath flooring, shower, & sprinklers. Room to add 3rd bath down. HUGE 4 foot storage area under family room. Unique waterfall landscaping with garden boxes & fruit trees.

It's Election Day!!

Get out and vote day!!! 

Municipal elections are throughout the state. 

For more info - check out your city's website - you can link to them from here on our blog.

What are you being for Halloween??

Are you showing off your LSU pride for Halloween? 
Or are you zombies or witches??
Or better yet, are you creative & coming up with some unique costumes?? 

Or is your pumpkin carving ready to take over the world?? 

Send us some pictures of your pumpkins or your gang all dressed up & ready to trick or treat. 

We'll choose the best photo & send a prize your way - so send them to us!

We'd love to see all the fun!! 

LAYTON PD WARNS CITIZENS ABOUT THE USE OF "REPLICA" TOY GUNS

On October 24, 2013 at about 6:00 p.m., Layton Police Dispatch received two 911 calls from tenants at the Hidden Cove apartments. One of the callers reported seeing two adult males approaching an apartment building wearing dark clothing and carrying shotguns. The males were believed to have gone into one of the apartments, and the caller said she heard screaming coming from that apartment.

The first officer arriving on scene took a tactical position outside the building while waiting for other officers to arrive. Shortly after his arrival, the officer saw two males dressed in black jogging down the stairs from an upper floor apartment. The officer could see one of the males was carrying what appeared to be a black shotgun. The officer took cover behind a large tree and waited for the males to get to the bottom of the stairs. The officer again confirmed one of the males was still holding the same black shotgun. The officer pointed his gun at the male with the shotgun and yelled at him to drop the gun. The male immediately complied, and both males put their hands in the air. The officer said the gun sounded like plastic when it hit the ground. The males told the officer it was an "airsoft" toy gun. 

Officers inspected the shotgun and confirmed it was a toy replica of a shotgun, which included a realistic shotgun shell that propelled plastic pellets. The officer said the gun did have a small amount of orange color on the tip of the barrel, but the officer said he didn't see the orange on the barrel until the gun was on the ground. The officer determined these males were playing a "joke" on some friends in one of the apartments. 

The officer counseled the males and their parents about how others perceived their actions. Both males and their parents were apologetic and understood this incident could have ended with deadly consequences. Recently, a 13-year-old boy in Northern California who was carrying a toy pellet replica gun of an "AK-47" assault rifle was shot and killed by a deputy who stated the boy refused to drop the gun. This was a tragic event for the boy's family and for the deputies involved. The incident here in Layton could have very well ended the same. 

There are many toy guns manufactured to look just like real guns, and there are real guns being manufactured and altered to look like toy guns. Officers may not be able to tell if the gun is a toy or the real thing. Officers are not obligated to wait until a subject fires a gun at them or someone else before they make a decision to use deadly force against the subject with the gun. 

The Layton Police Department is urging citizens to keep themselves and their children from displaying "replica" toy guns in public. If you are confronted by an officer while holding a gun (replica or real), you MUST follow the officer's instructions. Do not try to reason with the officer by indicating the gun isn’t real. We all need to do our part to ensure the safety and welfare of our community. 

Lt. Shawn Horton
Layton Police Department

Pumpkin carving ideas

Pumpkin carving has got to be one of the worst things about Halloween - at least in my book. But here are a few great examples of some creative people. We love the baby's first halloween pumpkin! So cute.

Share with us your carvings - we'd love to see what you come up with!

Pumpkin Walk - Ogden, Utah

Pumpkin Walk & Contest, Magicians & More!!!

Monday, October 28th magicians & performers entertain you as you stroll up & down Historic 25th Street to view all the pumpkins! Bring your pre-carved and/or decorated pumpkins to Historic 25th Street to show off your talents & compete for great prizes! No candles or flames, please. Flameless candles will be provided for all carved pumpkins.

Register your pumpkin between 4:30-5:30pm at Union Station, 2501 Wall Ave. Judging will take place between 5:30-6:30. Prizes will be awarded at Union Station plaza at 7:30pm.

A little humor!

Pumpkin Pie Cheese Ball - what's not to love?

Now, it's becoming common knowledge that I (Betsy) am a pumpkin-aholic...so here's the latest. I saw this one the other day & was drooling over the recipe. I haven't tried it yet, but I'm thinking this one needs to be done quickly!
If you try it first, let me know how you like it. I mean, what's not to like?? Pumpkin...good. Cream cheese...good. Gingersnaps...eh? My kid says...way good.

And I'm thinking 'Nilla Wafers to dip with...yummy. The possiblities are endless.

Pumpkin Pie “Cheese” Ball
Source: The Girl Who Ate Everything

Ingredients
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, slightly softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
3 Tablespoons brown sugar
3/4 cup pumpkin puree
1 Tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (see Notes for substitute)
1 1/2 cups crushed gingersnap cookies
graham crackers, apples, and additional gingersnaps for dipping

Instructions
1. With a mixer blend the cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy. Add the powdered
sugar and brown sugar and blend well. Add the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice until
combined.
2. Spoon mixture onto plastic wrap in a ball shape. The mixture is wet so it won't quite be a ball but do
your best to make a ball or pumpkin shape. Wrap mixture tightly with plastic wrap and place in the
fridge for 4 hours or until firm.
3. Once ball is frozen remove from the freezer. Place gingersnap crumbs on a large plate or platter.
Unwrap the ball. It may look scary but will look fine once the crumbs are on it. Roll the ball in the
crumbs, pressing the crumbs into the ball. I noticed that if I let the ball sit for a minute before rolling it
had enough moisture to make the crumbs stick. Wrap ball in clean piece of plastic wrap and store
in the freezer until serving.
4. To serve: Remove from the fridge about a half hour before serving. The ball can be stored in the
refrigerator for a day or two and will be in a softer state. Any longer than that, it should be stored in
the freezer.
5. Cut into wedges and serve with graham crackers, apple slices, or gingersnaps. Graham crackers
are our favorite because it really tastes like pumpkin pie.

Fantastic home - Roy, Utah

Delightful one owner home with main floor living. Newer 65 gal water heater! Spacious bath with separate jetted tub/shower, large master, lots of closet space, wonderful laundry room with extra cabinets, sink. Formal living room/office. Basement just needs carpeting and light fixtures. Garage fully finished. Amazing shaded, custom park-like backyard. A must see!!

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Steps to Winterizing Your Home - it's that time of year already!!

Autumn is in full swing, which means it’s a good time to start winterizing your home. 

Start off the season by getting your furnace inspected and cleaned if necessary. It’s wise to change the filters on your furnace every month, for better energy efficiency. You may also want to consider getting a programmable thermostat if you do not have one.

The fireplace in your home may need attention, too. Keep out pests by putting a cap or screen at the top of the chimney and consider hiring a chimney sweep if it’s been a while since the chimney was cleaned. Get your firewood ready, and store it in a dry place, away from the exterior of your home and make sure the damper opens and closes properly.

Now it’s time to begin winterizing your home outside. Check the doors and windows of your home. Put weatherstripping around doors and caulk windows to keep cold air out. Seal any exterior cracks. Put up winter screens or storm windows, if you have them.

One more thing you want to do is to clean out the rain gutters around your home. Clean out debris with a hose. It’s a good idea to put leaf guards on the gutters and extensions on downspouts to keep water away from your home, as well. Check your foundation for any entry points small animals could squeeze through and seal them up. The last thing you need when it’s cold is a rodent problem.

Winterizing your home also includes preparing your garden tools. Drain gasoline from your lawnmower and check to make sure your snow blower is in working order. If your rakes or snow shovels are getting worn out, it may be time to replace them. After cleaning and drying, store summer gardening tools so they will stay in good shape over the changing seasons.

Autumn is one of the most beautiful times of the year - the colors pop & the temperature is perfect. It never lasts very long here in Utah, so let's work on our to do lists! 

source race2utah.com

Annual Client Holiday Party!

Save the date!!! We're starting to plan our annual client holiday party. This year it will be December 5, 2013 from 4-8 pm. More info to follow - it's going to be a great night!!!

Check out this new listing in Clinton, Utah

Beautifully cared for 4 bedroom, 2 bath home. Updating includes: heating/A/C, some windows, some flooring, 50 gallon water heater, disposal, extra attic insulation, garage door opener, master bath flooring, shower, & sprinklers. Room to add 3rd bath down. HUGE 4 foot storage area under family room. Unique waterfall landscaping with garden boxes & fruit trees.

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Need to fill the fall break? - Ogden, Utah

Looking for something fun to do while the kids are home for fall break? Or just need a little Halloween-ing? Check out the Creatures of the Night at the Ogden Nature Center this weekend from 5-8pm.

Two crazy nights of outdoor fun -- without fright! Live owls, spiders & snakes! Trail-side adventures, nature crafts, carnival games, face painting, fortune telling, jack-o-lanterns lit trail, food & more!!!

For more info, check it out here.

Beautiful views from this home - South Ogden, Utah

Delightful Rambler with incredulous views!! Wonderful woodwork, vaults, stained glass, custom fireplace, Napoleon Gourmet wood burning stove, kitchen with greenhouse window, double ovens, pull out drawers, deep double sink, great rm with fireplace, one family room down could easily convert to 2 more bedrooms. Large family room, kitchenette for entertaining, exercise room. Home warranty. Ready for you to add personal touches!!

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How big is your brave??

It was time for a little jolt in the positive energy here at the Tiger Ladies Real Estate. So, hope you will indulge me.

One of my all time favorite movie lines is from We Bought a Zoo. "Sometimes all you need is 20 seconds of insane courage just literally 20 seconds of just embarrassing bravery and I promise you something great will come of it."

This one has become a mantra for me!! I'm always telling the teenagers this one - take the risk, be brave. Good things will happen.

So, Show me "How big your BRAVE is!!" I want to hear your story of embarrassing bravery & the good that came from it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwTr_CRw3GY

Why it Might Be Cheaper to Buy Now

DAILY REAL ESTATE NEWS | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2013

Mortgage rates are nearing the 5 percent mark, prompting many home buyers to rush to take advantage of rates while they’re still low. 

“Most people agree it is only a matter of time before rates hit 5 percent,” Peter Grabel, a mortgage loan originator at Luxury Mortgage Corp. in Stamford, Conn., told realtor.com®. “The housing market has clearly turned the corner in most areas. I think a year from now, people will look back and realize that this was a great buying opportunity.”

Some forecasts show rates could edge even higher to 5.5 percent or even 6 percent in 2014. The Federal Reserve has announced that it will soon start tapering its $85 billion monthly bond-purchasing program, which is expected to send mortgage rates rising from recent record lows. 

Currently, 30-year fixed-rate mortgages are averaging 4.2 percent, according to Freddie Mac. 

In a recent blog post, realtor.com® illustrates the effect of rising mortgage rates on buyers’ pocketbooks: 

1. Example: A buyer gets a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at a 5 percent interest rate on a $300,000 loan.
   Monthly payment: $1,610.46
   Total payment: $579,569.69
   Total interest: $279,769.69
2. Example: A buyer gets a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at 6 percent interest rate on a $300,000 loan.
   Monthly payment = $1,798.65
   Total payment = $647,515.44
   Total interest = $347,515.44

The buyer with a 6 percent interest rate would pay about $67,746 more over the life of a loan than the buyer who was able to get an interest rate at 5 percent. 

http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2013/10/10/why-it-might-be-cheaper-buy-now#.UlhLte7ijGQ.email

Golden Spike Realty Food Drive - Layton, Utah

Please help our office, Golden Spike Realty collect Canned and Non-Perishable goods to donate this Holiday Season. Drop food items off at any local Golden Spike Realty Office. Thank you in advance for assistance.

If you have any questions, give us a holler!! 

Price slashed on this great home!!! Farmington, Utah

"PRICE SLASHED on this beautiful home located in quiet cul-de-sac. Seller relocated--move in condition. 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths (plumbed & framed for 3rd bath in basement). Formal living rm, spacious semi formal dining, large family room w/f/p, 2 patios, fully fenced, new 2 tone paint. NOTHING LIKE IT IN THIS PRICE RANGE!!!

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Looking for a fun way to welcome in the fall??? Check this out! 

The annual non-scary Dinosaur Park Carnivore Carnival invites visitors to explore the Park's eight acres of dinosaurs – lit up and decorated in Halloween style, trick-or-treat and play at volunteer-run carnival games (no sales this year), learn about ancient carnivores at paleontology presentations, and show off your costume at our nightly costume parade. The Carnivore Carnival is open October 11 & 12, 17, 18 & 19, and 24 & 25 from 6:30 until 8:30 pm. Admission is $5 for children and $3 for adults. Park members receive 50% off. Avoid the lines by calling (801)393-3466 ext 56 to purchase ticket in advance.

For more information check them out on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/events/396421083817568/

Gov’t Shutdown Pushes Mortgage Rates Down - it's not all bad news! Take advantage of these interest rates

Gov’t Shutdown Pushes Mortgage Rates Down

DAILY REAL ESTATE NEWS | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 04, 2013

As a result of the federal government shutdown and declining consumer confidence, fixed mortgage rates fell for the third consecutive week, Freddie Mac reports, ending at their lowest averages in nearly four months.

Retreating interest rates are generally good news for home buyers, however, the University of Michigan reports that overall consumer sentiment is at its lowest since April.

Freddie Mac reports the following national averages with mortgage rates for the week ending Oct. 3: 

• 30-year fixed-rate mortgages: averaged 4.22 percent, with an average 0.7 point, dropping from last week’s 4.32 percent average. Last year at this time, 30-year rates averaged 3.36 percent. 
• 15-year fixed-rate mortgages: averaged 3.29 percent, with an average 0.7 point, dropping from last week’s 3.37 percent average. Last year at this time, 15-year rates averaged 2.69 percent. 
• 5-year hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages: averaged 3.03 percent, with an average 0.6 point, dropping from last week’s 3.07 percent average. Last year at this time, 5-year ARMs averaged 2.72 percent. 
• 1-year ARMs: averaged 2.63 percent, with an average 0.4 point, holding the same as last week. A year ago at this time, 1-year ARMs averaged 2.57 percent. 

The shutdown is having some impact on federal housing and mortgage programs. The Federal Housing Administration's Office of Single Family Housing is endorsing new loans, however, the IRS is closed and has suspended the processing of all forms, including requests for tax return transcripts. Lenders often require such documentation from mortgage applicants, but some are adopting revised policies during the shutdown that will allow for processing and closings with income verification to follow. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have also adopted relaxed provisions on loans requiring a Form 4506T, allowing closings that are subject to tax transcript verification before the GSEs purchase the loans.

A recent Bloomberg survey of professional forecasters suggests that a partial federal shutdown lasting one week would shave 0.1 percentage points off of GDP growth in the fourth quarter and even more if the shutdown lasts longer. IHS Inc. estimates that the shutdown is costing the U.S. roughly $300 million per day in lost output.

What does the Government Shutdown mean to you & me?

The Federal Government shutdown may affect certain home loans in the short term.

Note: The biggest issue will be with the ordering of Tax Transcripts (4506-T) from the IRS. With IRS offices closed, this will impact all loan types.

· FHA Loans: The approval process may be slowed due to limited FHA staff to respond to questions and complete reviews.

· VA Loans: With the Department of Veterans Affairs continuing to operate as normal, VA Loans will not be adversely impacted in any way.

· USDA Loans: No new loans or guarantees will be made.

· Internal Revenue Service: The IRS will not process any forms, including tax transcripts, which are required for loan closing.

· Social Security Administration: The SSA will likely not be able to verify Social Security numbers, which is required for loan closing.

· FEMA Flood Insurance: It is likely that mapping issues or amendments will be impacted.

· Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac: Fannie and Freddie will not be directly affected, except to the extent that they rely on verification and other functions of HUD, the IRS, and the SSA.

Back on the Market - Farmington, Utah

SALE FAILED, SELLER RELOCATED, PRICE DROPPED, A GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR YOU!!!

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Black Island Farms Opens for a new season - Syracuse, Utah

Black Island Farms

Farm-fresh family fun!

Open September 20 - 21 and September 27 - October 31, 2013

(We will be closed September 22 - 26)

We are a working vegetable farm, with about 300 acres in cultivation! We grow carrots, onions, cabbage, corn, pumpkins, squash and gourds. Black Island Farms has been in the same family for more than 50 years, and we're proud of our heritage here in Davis County, Utah.

**We did find a deal for anyone looking for a way to experience all the farm as to offer. Check it out here!**

We'd love to see some pictures & hear your stories of all the fun you had while visiting - let us know!!

Interest rate improve on Feds remarks!!

Mortgage bonds are soaring on the Fed news that it will not taper at this time and keep in place the purchasing of $85 billion per month.  This is great news for home buyers and now is your window of opportunity to act!

Read about it here.

The Housing Recovery in full swing

Economists participating in the Wall Street Journal forecast have upgraded their home price forecast – again. Home prices are projected to rise 8% this year and then another 5% next year.

Check out the interactive chart here under the housing tab.

Price Reduction - Farmington, Utah

Check out this great home in Farmington, Utah with a fresh new price reduction!

For the full virtual tour, check this out...

Northern Utah Fall Home Show - Layton, Utah

Just wanted to pass along the info for this years Northern Utah Fall Home Show this weekend (September 13-15, 2013).

And best of all...it's FREE!!!

It's at the Davis Conference Center
1651 North 700 West
Layton, UT 84041

The hours are:
Friday, 9/13 - 11:00am - 8:00pm
Saturday, 9/14 - 10:00am - 8:00pm
Sunday, 9/15 - 10:00am - 6:00pm

For more info, click here.

Today & always, we remember.

So so proud of Tiger Lady Sandy!!!

Sandy was honored at the annual Utah Association of Realtors convention this past week for all her hard work on the convention committee and more!!

She is so committed to the cause of real estate & gives so much of her time & abilities to it.
Give her a shout out to congratulate her - and find out just why she was chosen for this amazing award!

I am so proud of her - as my business partner & my mom!!! She is an amazing person!

A pinch of this...a dash of that! Farmington, UT

Check out the rest of this beauty!!

Gorgeous home nestled in quiet cul-de-sac. Convenient to commuting, convenient to shopping, convenient to schools. 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, plumbed and framed for 3rd bath. Large family room with fireplace. Formal living, spacious dining. New 2 tone paint. Move in condition!! Call the Tiger Ladies @ Golden Spike Realty
(801)497-9500

Great Home for Sale - South Ogden, Utah

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Delightful Rambler with incredulous views!! Wonderful woodwork, vaults, stained glass, custom fireplace, Napoleon Gourmet woodburning stove, kitchen with greenhouse window, double ovens, pull out drawers, deep double sink. great room with fireplace, one family room down could easily convert to 2 more bedrooms. Large family room, kitchenette for entertaining, exercise room. Home warranty. Ready for you to add personal touches!!

Featured home of the week - Farmington, Utah

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Gorgeous home nestled in quiet cul-de-sac. Convenient to commuting, convenient to shopping, convenient to schools. 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, plumbed and framed for 3rd bath. Large family rm with fireplace. Formal living, spacious dining. New 2 tone paint. Move in condition!! Call for your personal preview!

The Benefits of Homeownership

We thought this infographic was a great visual way to see just how many of us understand the benefits of owning a home. What do you think? What has been your experiences?
Check out the article here.

Back to School Breakfast idea!

If you're anything like us, you need a quick & easy way to feed everyone as they are walking out the door for work & school. This is a winner at the Dixon house. We make a recipe & stick them in the freezer so when they are ready, pop it in the microwave & enjoy a hot breakfast. At least it makes me feel better than sending them with a Pop Tart! :)



Ingredients

Dough
1 1/2 tblsp yeast
1/2 c warm water (110 degrees)
3/4 c evaporated milk (110 degrees)
1/2 c vegetable oil
1/4 c sugar
1 egg
1 tsp salt
3 1/2 c flour

Filling

1 lb bulk sausage
1/2 c onion, chopped
1 1/2 c frozen hashbrown potatoes, thawed
7 large eggs
3 tblsp milk
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp garlic salt
pinch of cayenne pepper
2 c cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions
1. In a bowl, dissolve yeast in the water.
2. Add milk, oil, sugar, egg, salt, and 2 cups flour; beat until smooth.
3. Add enough flour until it makes a soft dough but do not knead. Cover and let rise in a warm place
until doubled, about 1 hour.
4. Cook the sausage and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain. Add the hashbrowns, eggs,
milk, and spices. Cook and stir until set. Sprinkle with cheese and keep warm.
5. Preheat oven to 350°.
6. Punch down the dough and cut into 16 equal pieces.
7. Roll each piece into 7 in circle on a floured surface. Top with 1/3 c filling, fold, and pinch shut. Bake
for 15-20 minutes.
8. Allow to cool on the baking sheet. Once cooled, place in the freezer until frozen. Store in a ziploc
bag in the freezer for 3-6 months. To reheat, place on a paper towel and microwave for 1 1/2-2

http://www.budgetgourmetmom.com/breakfast-pockets/

Featured home of the week - Roy, Utah

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Delightful one owner home w/main floor living. Newer 65 gal water heater! Spacious bath w/sep. jetted tub/shower, large master, lots of closet space, wonderful laundry room w/extra cabinets, sink. Formal living room/office. Basement nearing completion--just needs flooring, light fixtures, some bath fixtures, finishing touches. Basement includes: Wired for surround sound, large family room, 3 bedrooms, bath includes jetted tub (remaining fx. neg.), & blinds on all windows. Garage fully finished. Amazing shaded, custom backyard w/unique fish pond and waterfall. A must see!!

Pioneer Day Activites

Wondering what may be coming up for the Pioneer Day holiday?? This one is unique to Utah, so let's get out there & enjoy it!

July 20

• Antelope Island State Park Pioneer Day Celebrations: Fielding Garr Ranch 12-2pm. Games from 2-4pm. Guided tours of the ranch 10-4pm. (801)649-5742
• Rock the Park Free summer concert series at Station Park - Blue Moon Swamp 7-9pm. The Village at 320 N Station Parkway, Farmington
• Antelope Island Guided Sunset Hike: Like & Times of Great Salt Lake. 7:30pm Bridger Bay Campground #6. Join the park naturalist for a 2-mile one way hike along the Shoreline Trail while discussing the intriguing past of this ancient lake. (801)721-9569

July 21

• Free Sunday Concert Series: Susan Facer & Friends, 7pm, Ed Kenley Centennial Amphitheater, 403 N Wasatch Dr, Layton. (801)546-8575 or www.davisarts.org

July 24

• Antelope Island Pioneer Day Celebration. Fielding Garr Ranch 12-2pm. Games, guided tours, wool processing demos, etc. (801)649-5742
• 16th Annual Taste of the Town, 4-7pm Layton Commons Park, 437 N Wasatch Dr, Layton. Food from 20+ restaurants, live music all in an outdoor shaded environment. 
• Free "Riders in the Sky" Pioneer Day Concert, 8pm. Ed Kenley Centennial Amphitheater, 403 N Wasatch Dr, Layton. Pull up a chair & let the entire family enjoy some great cowboy music. Seats fill fast & are first come first served. (801)336-3900
• Days of 47 Parade. The Days of ’47 Parade in downtown Salt Lake City beginning at 9:00 am.  For a new adventure, bring the kids, the sleeping bags and the hot dogs downtown on the evening of the 23rd.  You can camp out on Salt Lake City streets along the route that evening.  This is the biggest sleepover your family and friends will ever experience!  Remember to bring enough water to keep everyone hydrated. www.daysof47.com

July 26-27

• Sunset City Fun Days. Friday, 6-10pm, Central Park, 85 W 1800 N, Sunset. Carnival, contests, vendors, & movie. North Park, 250 W 2400 N, Sunset. Skate contest, Saturday, 6am-Fireworks!

Happy 4th of July!!

Have a safe & happy 4th of July with all the food, friends, laughter & fireworks.

Will Rising Rates Lead to Buyer Rush?

DAILY REAL ESTATE NEWS | MONDAY, JULY 01, 2013

Mortgage rates soared to a two-year high last week, rising by the largest pace since 1987. Freddie Mac reported the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage climbed from 3.93 percent to 4.46 percent last week. Some economists are predicting 30-year rates to climb to 4.5 percent and 5 percent over the next 12 months, following the Federal Reserve’s recent announcement that it will soon end a program that has kept interest rates near all-time lows for months. 

Home buyers may be concerned that the rising rates will dampen housing affordability. But economists say that rising rates shouldn’t derail the housing market recovery. 

"Some people might decide to buy a smaller house in a different area, but you won't see a big decline based just on interest rates," says Jay Brinkmann, the Mortgage Bankers Association’s chief economist. "In the past, you would see a rise in homebuying activity with rate increases. People who are on the fence about buying a home get off the fence in a hurry when rates start to go up.”

As rates have edged up recently, pending home sales have moved up too. They rose 6.7 percent in May from April—at the highest rate since late 2006, the National Association of REALTORS® recently reported. 

Analysts also point out that mortgage rates are still low by a historical perspective, even if they do tick up to 5 percent. 

"Anything below 6 percent is historically favorable," says Keith Gumbinger, vice president of HSH, a mortgage data publisher. 

Source: “Mortgage Rates Won't Derail Housing Recovery, Analysts Say,” Investors Business Daily (June 27, 2013)

New Rules May Ease Mortgage Process for Retirees

DAILY REAL ESTATE NEWS | TUESDAY, MAY 28, 2013

Many retirees have been struggling to qualify for a mortgage, finding their post-retirement monthly incomes aren’t sufficient enough to get a loan under today’s tough underwriting standards. The problem was particularly pronounced for retirees who were still making payments on car loans, credit cards, or home equity lines of credit and who found they were unable to qualify under today’s low “debt-to-income” standards.

But mortgage giant Freddie Mac is now allowing retirees—and others—to use income from their 401(k), IRA, and other retirement assets to qualify for a loan.

“That, in turn, might open the door to a money-saving refinancing to a lower-rate loan or a downsizing purchase of a new house or condo,” The Washington Post reports.

The retirement account balances can be used to supplement their incomes for underwriting purposes, but the borrower does not actually have to draw from those balances in order to get the mortgage. 

Source: “Mortgage giants make it easier for retirees to secure loans,” The Washington Post (May 23, 2013)

Happy Father's Day

"Small boys become big men through the influence of  big men who care about small boys" - author unknown

Happy Father's Day to all the Dads out there! We hope you have a day of relaxation, good food, loads of fun & lots of love!! 

Great Investment Property - Ogden, UT

View the Tour

Great investment opportunity! Well cared for duplex with strong rental history. One unit with a 2 car garage & one with two 1 car garages. Totally remodeled, newer roof, hardwood floors, new paint, central air, tenants pay all utilities except water, sewer, and garbage. Addresses are 541 28th St. & 2806 Porter (corner lot). DO NOT DISTURB TENANTS. Must have appointment to preview.

Deck Makeover Projects Under $300 - Yes Please!!

Summer time always means some backyard fun at our house! We like the s'mores over the fire pit, the hammock, the soccer balls over the fence (sorry), the sprinklers, the cherries & the birds that eat all the cherries.
But I honestly am not in love with my deck - so I thought this article from HouseLogic.com shared some great ideas to make it a little more fun.
What do you love or not so much love about your backyard??
Read about it here!

Memorial Day 2013

Memorial Day remembers those who died serving the United States military.

It is traditional to fly the flag of the United States at half mast from dawn until noon. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, particularly to honor those who have died in military service. Many volunteers place an American flag on each grave in national cemeteries.

We hope that each of us will remember those who have served or are currently serving - we are so grateful to them!