All Things SLC (Salt Lake City)

You Snooze You Lose-What Buyers May Be Losing By Waiting

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 02:19:48 -0500

I'm sure you've noticed that interest rates are creeping up.....again! They were the lowest they've been in years. Rates are still very good, but they may not stay that way for long! Another factor to consider is that housing prices are near what they were in 2003 in our particular area! Do you know someone who is fence sitting....waiting for the perfect time to buy? Yeah, most of us do. You may want to make them aware of some very interesting numbers. Point out to them the difference in owning a $320,000 vs. a $240,000 home for the exact same payment amount! Do you think that might make them sit up and take notice?

Loan Amount Rate Payment Payment Rate Home Price

$320,000.00 @ 5.25% = $1,766.00 $1,766.00 @ 5.25% = $320,000.00

$320,000.00 @ 6.00% = $1,918.00 $1,766.00 @ 6.00% = $294,700.00

$320,000.00 @ 6.50% = $2,022.00 $1,766.00 @ 6.50% = $279,540.00

$320,000.00 @ 7.00% = $2,128.00 $1,766.00 @ 7.00% = $265,566.00

$320,000.00 @ 7.50% = $2,237.00 $1,766.00 @ 7.50% = $252,680.00

$320,000.00 @ 8.00% = $2,348.00 $1,766.00 @ 8.00% = $240,775.00

FACT: Rates are Phenomenal - now!

FACT: Home Prices are Lower and Fantastic!

FACT: We are in the PERFECT STORM!

Home prices and interest rates are subject to change and both most likely will go up.

Payment will go up substantially for the exact same home!

Food for thought!

Happy buying!

Contact Suzanne Gallegos, Salt Lake City's Service First Realtor

Serving Salt Lake City, Utah and surrounding areas

www.suzannegallegos.com

801-910-1152

**FREE relocation package available

The New Black Is GREEN! Salt Lake City Cycle Style Show

Tue, 12 May 2009 00:41:47 -0500

CYCLE STYLE SHOW

FRIDAY MAY 15, 2009

GALLIVAN CENTER

In keeping with the current trend to go "green", May is National Bike Month. In conjunction with the national event, it is also Utah Bike Month. This year the Salt Lake Bike Bonanza will debut a stylish new attraction as part of the festivities - the Cycle Style Show!

The Salt Lake City show has been patterned after European Cycle Style shows. The show will feature bicycles of all types for the 2009 season including road bikes, mountain bikes, commute to work bikes and path bikes. There will also be a variety of specialty bikes on display. A touch of Amsterdam will be added to the line up with some Dutch style bikes that allow the rider to look chic while they ride. Move over spandex biking clothes! These cycles feature chain guards and skirt guards to help keep clothing clean allowing a girl or guy to bike to work, the mall, or anyplace in style!

"We are really excited about how this event is coming together and what it means to biking in Salt Lake," said show organizer and bike advocate Tara McKee. "After researching how others around the world build momentum for biking in their areas, I found that the European cycling shows bring communities together in an exciting way. As the planning of this event has unfolded, I have become keenly aware of the love of biking in Salt Lake. Whether people enjoy road, mountain, or leisure biking, I have found that we all yearn for a community that understands the benefits for individuals and families. This event will center on our love of the sport."

The public is invited to join community leaders and cycling advocates for this FREE family event.

Friday, May 15 2009 7:00 p.m.

Gallivan Center - Downtown Salt Lake City

239 S. Main St.

Contact Suzanne Gallegos, Salt Lake City's Service First Realtor

Serving Salt Lake City, Utah and surrounding areas

www.suzannegallegos.com

801-910-1152

**FREE relocation package available

Family Friendly Attractions In Salt Lake City, Utah

Sat, 04 Apr 2009 18:01:52 -0500

Are you looking for fun yet educational family activities in the Salt Lake City area? Search no more! Here are two of Salt Lake City's unique family friendly attractions!

DISCOVERY GATEWAY CHILDREN'S MUSEUM

Completed in Fall 2006. the new Utah Children's Museum facility boasts a wealth of entertaining yet educational exhitits in the convenient shopping area of The Gateway in downtown Salt Lake City. Permanent fixtures include the hands-on Media Center where kids can interact with technology, and The Studio, which combines art, science and engineering exhibits to help kids understand and interact with the world around them. All exhibits are hands on and interactive. Open seven days a week.

444 W. 100 So. SLC, UT www.discoverygateway.org 801-456-5437

Clark Planetarium

While its IMAX Theatre shows and Hansen Star Theatre draw big crowds, there are also plenty of free exhibits all year long. Visitors can learn about eveything from meteorites, Mars and the moon to the solar system, stars and space stations. All presented in a colorful and exciting world-class facility. Open seven days a week.

110 So. 400 West SLC, UT www.clarkplanetarium.org 801-456-7827

Contact Suzanne Gallegos, Salt Lake City's Service First Realtor

Serving Salt Lake City, Utah and surrounding areas

www.suzannegallegos.com

801-910-1152

**FREE relocation package available

More News On Hope of Economic Recovery!

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 20:49:58 -0500

"Utah's economy is following a path that can return the state to it's prior level of prosperity." This encouraging comment was made by Kelly Matthews, Wells Fargo economist, to a sold out crowd at the Governor's third annual Utah Economic Summit. Matthews stated that while challenges still remain, he believes the recession, now in it's 17th month, is bottoming out and Utah's economy is poised for a strong recovery.

There were a number of representatives from the business, education and government sectors present at the summit. They said that although they may not share the same level of optimism, they agree the state is better positioned than most to recover. The nonpartisan American Legislative Exchange Council recently graded Utah's economy the most competitive in the nation.

Among indicators that point to a return to prosperity is affordable housing and a trend toward activity in the housing market. While home prices in Utah have not plummeted to the same degree as in harder hit housing markets, prices have definitely come down over the past year and a half. This, combined with the current home buyer incentives, make the Utah housing market very buyer friendly.

Contact Suzanne Gallegos, Salt Lake City's Service First Realtor

Serving Salt Lake City, Utah and surrounding areas

www.suzannegallegos.com

801-910-1152

**FREE relocation package available

FREE Money - Why Wait?

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 19:44:47 -0500

Utah's Governor, John Huntsman, signed a bill last week allowing creation of a $6000 grant program for homebuyers purchasing a newly constructed home. There are 1,600 grants available. Salt Lake Board of Realtors President Ryan Kirkham stated that getting rid of inventory will help home builders and the construction industry get back to work. The Salt Lake Board feels this new local incentive combined with the Federal $8000 incentive will make a big difference in Utah's housing market. In fact, the SLBR says that the combination of these new incentives could pull Utah out of the recession.

"People are kind of excited about this, and there is a little bit of a buzz, and I actually think we might see things really pick up here because it's just a time where if you are thinking about buying at all, you can't pass up these opportunities its almost crazy to not take advantage of this," Kirkham said.

"This move by the state, by the legislature and the governor is really a great move because that money should drive that inventory down even lower, which is really important to help us fix this housing market. You can't have an economic recovery without housing," Kirkham said.

These incentives are also good news for the estimated 18,000 Utah construction workers who lost jobs last year as a result of the slowing housing market. According to the Governor's office there are an estimated 3,000 newly built homes available. The $6000 buyer's incentive should help drive down this inventory and give the new home market room to grow again.

Imagine this scenario: $8000 first time home buyer credit

+ $6000 new construction incentive

+ $6000 seller paid closing costs (based on 3% of $200,000 purchase price)

$20,000!!!

That's a possible $20,000 discount on your new home! WOW! Why wait???

Contact Suzanne Gallegos, Salt Lake City's Service First Realtor

Serving Salt Lake City, Utah and surrounding areas

www.suzannegallegos.com

801-910-1152

**FREE relocation package available

Is The Decline Of The Real Estate Empire Over?

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 18:07:39 -0500

Is it possible that new home starts and new mortgage applications were up in February? The following is economic update info courtesy of one of my fave loan guys.

The Commerce Department reported that housing starts unexpectedly jumped 22.2% in February to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 583,000 units. This ended the longest streak of declines in 18 years. Economists had anticipated a 3.4% decline to 450,000 units. Leading the surge was an 82% increase in the building of multifamily homes - condominiums, apartments and townhouses - to 226,000 units in February from 124,000 in January. Housing starts for single-family homes rose 1.1% to 357,000 units. Building permits for single-family homes climbed 11% in February to 373,000, compared to 336,000 in January.

The Mortgage Bankers Association said its seasonally adjusted index of mortgage applications for the week ending March 13 increased 21.2% to 876.9 from the previous week. Purchase volume rose 1.5% to 257.1, while refinancing applications jumped 29.6% to 4,497.6.

The Federal Reserve reported that industrial activity at the nation's factories, mines and utilities fell by 1.4% in February. Economists had expected a decline of 1.2%. The factory-operating rate was down to 67.4% of capacity in February, the lowest level on records dating back to 1948. On a positive note, motor vehicle and parts production rose 10.2% after four consecutive months of declines.

The National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo housing market index in March stood at nine, the same level it was in February. The index hit a record low of eight in January. An index reading higher than 50 indicates positive sentiment about the housing market. The index has been below 50 since May 2006, and below 20 since April 2008.

On Tuesday, March 17, the Labor Department reported the producer price index, which tracks wholesale prices, rose 0.1% in February. Economists had expected a 0.8% increase.

The Labor Department reported Wednesday that consumer inflation rose 0.4% in February, the biggest one-month jump since a 0.7% rise in July 2008. The increase was largely due to an 8.3% rise in gasoline prices.

The Conference Board reported Thursday that its index of leading economic indicators fell 0.4% in February. That was slightly better than the 0.6% decline economists had expected. The index is designed to forecast economic activity in the next three to six months.

Upcoming on the economic calendar are reports on existing home sales on March 23, and durable goods orders and new home sales on March 25.

FYI: Here is another recent blog on the hopeful state of the housing market!(it's highly possible we're not doomed yet)

Contact Suzanne Gallegos, Salt Lake City's Service First Realtor

Serving Salt Lake City, Utah and surrounding areas

www.suzannegallegos.com

801-910-1152

**FREE relocation package available

The Happiest Place On Earth!

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 17:48:16 -0500

THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH!

I know, I know, you thought the happiest place on earth was Disneyland. Turns out that's not the case. Utah has stolen that coveted title away from Mickey and Minnie! Who knew it could be done?

The Gallup organization and Healthways, a disease management firm, released results of a poll earlier this week which reveals their rankings, by state, of who indeed has the happiest residents. Utah came out on top! Residents of the Beehive State claim the highest satisfaction in such areas as work environment, local communities, and emotional health. Other areas that were measured included life satisfaction, work quality, healthy behavior, physical health, emotional health and basic access to necessities like food and shelter. The poll was conducted over a one year period.

Utah was followed by Hawaii and then Wyoming. The bottom states included West Virginia, Michigan and Ohio. Some have speculated that one of the major factors influencing this poll is the unemployment rate. Utah still claims the lowest unemployment rate at 4.6%. The national average is now at 7.6%. It is also interesting to note that the median income in the top three states is $50,000 - $62,000. Median income in the bottom three states is $36,000 - $40,000. Undoubtedly these numbers could affect the average residents' outlook.

According to Healthways the purpose of the study was to measure quality of life outside the typical measures which included life expectancy and poverty rates.

Congratulations Utah on making the top of yet another list!

Check out these blogs on quality of life in Salt Lake City, Utah, and the surrouding area.

Forbes Loves SLC

Ski Victoriously!

Contact Suzanne Gallegos, Salt Lake City's Service First Realtor

Serving Salt Lake City, Utah and surrounding areas

www.suzannegallegos.com

801-910-1152

**FREE relocation package available

Mindset Of Fear

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 21:02:06 -0600

There seems to be this "mindset of fear" running rampant. We the public, and all throughout the housing industry, seem to be listening to the media. We hear about all the foreclosures, about the economic problems and we worry. We're just flat afraid and it seems that we don't know if we should take the next step or not.

I'd like to share some facts that were shared with me by a favorite loan officer. Hopefully this will put a few things into perspective for you.

· FACT: Interest rates are where they were back in the 1960's, back when gas was just .35 cents a gallon and postage was only .08 cents.

· FACT: Today home prices are at record lows in most markets, back to where they were in 2003.

· FACT: There are tons of great loan programs out there: FHA, VA, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac.

· FACT: You don't need 20% down. There is still a no money down program, 3½% down programs, and even special programs like the new "HomePath" program that requires as little as 3% down and even funding for investment properties with as little as 10% down.

· FACT: If you have a job, have a paycheck stub, and have decent credit, you CAN get a home!

· FACT: When interest rates go up, they skyrocket! You could wake up tomorrow morning and lose a half a point or more. Take advantage of what's available NOW! Don't try to outsmart the market, go with what you know... today.

· FACT: First Time Home Buyers, or anyone who hasn't owned a home in the past three years, may qualify for the new $8,000.00 stimulus tax credit. (And this one DOES NOT need to be repaid!)

· FACT: The Money is there! Unfortunately the media has made it look like there's no money at all, and that's just not fair!

Your job is to get yourself educated, get the facts, learn about the new technologies available to you through your Real Estate Agent, learn and get comfortable with the process. Don't let the great opportunities of today pass you by! Consult a professional today! You may be surprised at what is available for you and your family in this market. Do It Now! Don't Wait!

Here's another bit of information that may surprise you:

February 2009 - Metrocities / Prospect Mortgage (the company my friend works with) funded over $899,000,000.00 in mortgage loans - That's almost a billion dollars!

If there truly was no money out there, how could this have been possible?

Suzanne Gallegos-Salt Lake City, Utah Real Estate

Service First - Just ask me to prove it!

Contest winners?

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 20:21:47 -0600

Hi Everyone - Just wondering if I missed the announcement of the winners of the contest?

Salt Lake City Business Relocation Seminar

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 18:27:28 -0600

Recently Forbes Magazine ranked Utah as the top place for jobs and business in the U.S. If you are a business owner already in SLC, or a business owner considering relocating to Salt Lake City the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce offers a number of resources for you.

The Salt Lake Women's Business Center is hosting a Business Essentials seminar. The event will take place on March 11, 2009 from 8:30 - 10:00 a.m. The Featured speaker will be Monica Rafferty. She will be speaking on the importance of finding the right location for a business. Ms. Rafferty will also address the pros and cons of buying as opposed to leasing.

Ms. Rafferty's background is in marketing and strategic planning, helping business owners achieve superior results. She also specializes in Commercial Real Estate. Prior to that she spent 20 years in product management and strategic planning for such clients as American Express and Morgan Stanley Asset Management.

This seminar promises to be advantageous to local business owners as well as those considering a move or additional business location in Utah.

FORBES LOVES SLC!

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:57:51 -0600

FORBES SLC!

Forbes Magazine is well known for it's lists. They have a list for everything from Billionaires to Best Cities for Singles! (topics for another blog:) Forbes has become the go-to-guy on anything and everything and we have come to rely on their lists for recommendations of all kinds.

Not surprisingly, to those of us who discovered it first, Forbes SLC! That's right folks. The big boys over at Forbes think little 'ol Salt Lake City is worth bragging about! Twice Salt Lake City has topped the Forbes list in the Best City For Jobs category. Yes, you heard me right, #1 two years in a row! And just down the road about 30 minutes or so, Provo has been named #2 in the Best Business and Careers lists. This is no doubt due to the large number of technology and IT jobs. Salt Lake made the top ten list for Recession-Proof Cities - which is especially comforting in light of recent events! And, Forbes Traveler has called downtown Salt Lake's Grand America Hotel "One of the world's very best hotels".

As if all this wasn't enough, Salt Lake City recently ranked #1 in the Complete List: Best Bargains For House Hunters. Now that is an exciting place to be in the current market! And, just when you think it can't get any better, our lovely little city has ranked #3 in Best Cities For Home Sellers!

These rankings are based on such things as healthy job growth (please see above -"Best City For Jobs")number of foreclosures, number of available houses on the market compared to number of potential buyers, and decline in construction. According to Forbes Salt Lake City is adding jobs at a rate faster than anywhere else, and local economic growth is attracting home buyers from all over the country. While the Salt Lake Market has been ranked #3 for home sellers, it is still a buyer's market and buyers can still negotiate price and dictate many terms of the sale. If you're considering a move to SLC I just happen to know a great realtor! (wait...does Forbes have a list for that yet?)

Historic Westgate Lofts - Stunning Loftstyle Living!

Sat, 07 Feb 2009 13:46:02 -0600

HISTORIC WESTGATE LOFTS

DOWNTOWN SALT LAKE CITY

The building that now houses the Westgate Lofts was built in 1900 and has now been meticulously updated and remodeled. The building was originally a peanut factory and then more recently office space. Despite the updates the developers have maintained an architectural preservation of its historic elements and distinctive features. Award winning architect, Warren Lloyd, recently took second place in the AIA Awards. He specializes in sustainable design and historic preservation projects across the Wasatch Front as well as in the Puget Sound area.

The Westgate Lofts are conveniently located within walking distance of Salt Lake City's fabulous Gateway Mall (calling all shop-a-holics!), Energy Solutions Arena (Go Jazz!), and downtown restraunts and night life. However, if you prefer not to walk it is in the middle of the downtown Free Fare Zone on Trax - Salt Lake City's light rail train system.

No detail is left undone in these beautiful lofts. Each deluxe kitchen has EuroStyle Akurum kitchen cabinets with your choice of style and hardware, large custom designed kitchen islands, stainless steel energy saver appliances, and beautiful pendant lighting in youir choice of fixtures.

Perhaps one of the most remarkable amenities is the nearly cost free geothermal heating and air conditioning system. By tapping into the City Creek, 300 feet below the surface, mother nature does most of the work. For more explanation on geothermal energy please visit this blog post The Heat Is On. Geothermal energy reduces heating and air conditioning costs by up to 75%. Cool huh? (I know...no pun intended)

The main entry hall features the work of local artist Kathie Lee. The Westgate Lofts will now be part of the downtown Gallery Stroll. Salt Lake Gallery Stroll takes place on the third Friday of each month from 6 - 8 p.m.

The Westgate Lofts are simply a must see!

Each Unit Unique

Although each townhouse has a completely unique floor plan the amenities are the same in each space. Phase II of this amazing renovation has 17 two level custom designed Townhouse Lofts. Each townhouse boasts the following features:

-Original 15 ft high timber columns brought in from Brighton Ski Resort.

-Authentic style oversized Pioneer Period windows

-Original window designs include top level pigeon alcoves

-Soaring 15 ft. ceilings on main level, and 20 ft. ceilings on upper level

-Skylights in all upper level units

And much, much more!

If you love downtown living or are looking for a second home or investment property you must visit Westgate Lofts in downtown Salt Lake City.

Have You Been Branded?

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 14:49:24 -0600

Well, have you? Me neither......I've tried......really I have. It seems to be a work in progress. I am getting there.

Why do I ask? Branding is where it's at. It's THE buzz word in personal business marketing today. Just google the term and see what comes up. There is no shortage of books, articles, and professionals seeking to help you create a Personal Brand.

What exactly IS a Personal Brand?

The American Marketing Association (AMA) defines a brand as a "name, term, sign, symbol or design, or a combination of them intended to identify the goods and services of one seller or group of sellers and to differentiate them from those of other sellers. Essentially it sets you apart from the rest. It identifies you. It makes you recognizable at a glance.

A Good Brand

-is recognizable

-easy to remember

-attracts attention

-indicates your service or product

-stands out

-gives you credibility

-develops customer loyalty

A Personal Brand can be as simple as use of your own name. It could be use of your own initials. It could be the creation of a logo. It could be a combination of all of the above. There are professional services that lend themselves to creating a brand for you. Your Personal Brand is your way of putting yourself in a package.

If you haven't done it yet, at least consider developing your own Personal Brand!

Next: Brand Loyalty ......stay tuned......

Sundance Film Festival - Who's Who - Come Check Us Out!

Sat, 24 Jan 2009 00:43:27 -0600

WHO'S WHO AT SUNDANCE

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Sundance Film Festival. The Festival is presented by the Sundance Institute, an organization headed by the legendary Robert Redford. Park City, Utah hosts the event against a backdrop of the "Greatest Snow On Earth"! Here's a brief list of Sundance Alumni - just to give you a taste of what goes on there...

-The Coen Brothers: Winners of the Dramatic Grand Jury prize in 1985, the first year of the festival. They won with their thriller Blood Simple. Their success at Sundance launched them into a now legendary career including films such as No Country For Old Men, Brother, Where Are Thou?, Fargo, Raising Arizona, and many more. They have received three Oscars including one for Best Picture last year for No Country For Old Men.

-Quentin Tarantino: In 1992 Tarantino debuted at Sundance with his cult classic Reservoir Dogs. He followed that with Pulp Fiction, one of the biggest films of that decade. That film was nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards. He is now known as one of the kings of cult films. He may be best known for his Kill Bill series.

-Michael Moore: 1989 saw the introduction of a quirky story teller by the name of Michael Moore. At Sundance in 1989 he unveiled his documentary Roger & Me. This little film soon became the highest-grossing documentary of all time. However, Moore bested his own record by topping that with the Oscar winning Bowling For Columbine in 2002, and Fahrenheit 9/11 in 2004. Fahrenheit still holds the record for highest grossing documentary.

-Steven Soderbergh: In 1989 a little film called Sex, Lies, and Videotape took Sundance by storm. Since that time Soderbergh has gone on to release such hits as Ocean's Eleven, Traffic, and Erin Brokovich. The latter two both earned Best Director Oscar nominations.

If you are planning to visit Utah, or considering relocating to Utah you must visit the Sundance Film Festival yourself! Sundance consistently turns out legendary film making talent and is considered the premiere coming out festival for new talent in the film industry. It is too soon to know the front runners for this year. But, you can bet you will hear about them in the coming months.

Stay tuned to this blog for more SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL INFO

If you go:

Sundance Film Festival - Park City, Utah - Jan 15 thru Jan 25

Sundance Film Festival - Part Deux - You Better Get This Party Started!

Sat, 17 Jan 2009 00:00:23 -0600

Part Deux - Navigating The Festival

If you are a first time Festival-goer you may find yourself overwhelmed at first. The streets are packed....the shows are sold out.....and the really hot parties are invitation only. What's a newbie at the film festival to do? There are a number of options, if you just learn the ropes. Never fear - I will let you in on a few Festival secrets.

1: Transportation - Don't even think about driving up Main Street. It will be closed to vehicles during the Festival. There really is no decent parking up there anyway. Make use of the free shuttles during the event.

2: Sold Out - Yes, most of the movies will be sold out. If you didn't realize this and purchase a package of tickets ahead of time.....let not your heart be troubled.....there is hope! More tickets are released at 8 a.m. the morning of the showing. There is also a wait list option. Arrive at the venue 2 hours before scheduled showtime and get your wait number. Be back 30 minutes before showtime and, yes, wait. This is a great time to do your celebrity watching, by the way. AND, many wait-listers do get in.

3: Private Parties - O.K. this is a toughie. These parties are, indeed, invitation only. BUT.....there are a hundred and one parties that are open to all Festival party-ers! All of the fun and funky bars that line Main Street host nightly gatherings. And who knows, you may meet someone there and score an invitation to one of the "big" bashes.

Alright, that should be enough to get you started. You will blend right in and look like a long time Festival-goer in no time! Have fun!

Check back more inside news from Sundance!

Hollywood In Utah - Sundance Is Here!

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 21:22:05 -0600

Today marks the kick off of the 25th Sundance Film Festival in Park City Utah. Sundance is the world's largest market place for independent film. Now under the direction of the Sundance Institute, the Festival was founded by the legendary Robert Redford as a venue to showcase independent films.

Besides being a coming out party for the hottest new filmmaking talent through the Festival's program of documentary, dramatic, and short film, Festival attendees can experience live music shows, panel discussions with leading filmmakers and industry figures, parties celebrating the Festival community, and more. Sundance runs for ten days and will screen over 100 films in Park City and Salt Lake City.

The film selections will no doubt be as unique and varied as the Festivalgoers themselves. Some of the most anticipated films are those such as "When You're Strange", a documentary about the legendary 60's band The Doors. Another interesting submission is comedian Chris Rock's "Good Hair", a tribute to African American hair styles. Word on the street is that this year's submissions will stray a bit from the traditional Festival black comedy genre. The buzz is that this year's films are a bit lighter.

Stay tuned to this blog for all the scoop on the events throughout the Festival!

Ski Victoriously!

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 15:54:57 -0600

(Grizzly Gulch - Alta Utah - photo courtesy Alta.com)

It is a bright, sunny 43 degrees in Salt Lake City today! The sun is glinting off the snow crystals. It is incredible! Outside Magazine recently named some of Utah's ski resorts the best ski resorts in North America. The #1 spots went to Alta and Snowbird resorts. Both are located in Little Cottonwood Canyon and only minutes apart. Snowbasin was named #5 and Solitude was named #13. Here are just a few suggestions to make your ski trip to Utah amazing!

Utah Ski Tips (courtesy skiutah.com)

** Show your airline boarding pass and recieve a complimentary no-charge same day lift ticket at your choice of three Park City, Utah ski resorts: Deer Valley Resort, Park City Mountain Resort or The Canyons Resort. Visit parkcityinfo.com and click on their "Quick START" link for details and required registration: http://www.parkcityinfo.com/quickstart/.

**Set up a SkiUtah.com text message with your phone. Book a flight with Southwest Airlines and just get there. After landing check your Ski Utah message, choose your resort and within minutes you are in the "Best Snow on Earth". It can't get any easier or better than that.

** Skis Fly Free on Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines offers some of the most competitive airfares in the market. To top it off, Southwest allows passengers to check two bags for free. That means no charge for skis and snowboards and no airline-fee hassles.

** Take your time and use skiutah.com, the best way to find all the information you need like resort distance maps, local secrets and ground transportation.

First Night!

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 23:36:16 -0600

It's time for the Countdown, Downtown! The new year is here and this is is your last reminder to join in the First Night celebration with three stages of entertainment on Gallivan Plaza. First Night is the state's biggest and best New Year's celebration and it's right in downtown Salt Lake City. First Night is a family friendly event, with something for everyone. There is even a circus of fire performers that always proves to be a favorite! The event promotes cultural, ethnic, and artistic diversity. Transportation is available by using Trax. You can ride Trax free on Dec. 31 from 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. with your First Night admission button. Bundle up to stay warm and enjoy the festivities! First Night admission buttons are available at select Albertson's stores, Discovery Gateway, the Gateway concierge and the Leonardo. For more information go to firstnightslc.org.

Coats 4 Kids Coat Drive

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 23:57:57 -0600

Coats 4 Kids and Keller Williams Utah Realtors are hosting an open house on Friday, December 12, 2008 from 12:00 - 7:00 p.m. The open house will be held at the Westgate Lofts Condominiums-the latest in renovated loft style residences. The Westgate Lofts are located at 342 West 200 South near the Gateway Mall in downtown Salt Lake City. Anyone stopping by the open house to donate a coat will receive a free gift. The purpose of the coat drive is to collect new coats for pre-school and school age children who do not have access to winter coats.

Coats 4 Kids is a non-profit group making an effort to provide winter coats for kids in SLC who don't have them. Established in 2000, they depend entirely on volunteer service and donations. Coats 4 Kids co-founder states "We know that it is a worthwhile and rewarding effort to provide warmth to children who would otherwise be suffering and possibly missing school rather than brave the cold without a coat." All volunteer efforts and sponsorships are gratefully welcomed.

You Snooze You Lose - What your clients may be losing by waiting!

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 21:45:43 -0600

I'm sure you've noticed that interest rates have come down.....again! They are the lowest they've been in years. And housing prices are near what they were in 2003 in my particular area! Do you have clients that are fence sitting....waiting for the perfect time to buy? Yeah, most of us do. You may want to make them aware of some very interesting numbers. Point out to them the difference in owning a $320,000 vs. a $240,000 home for the exact same payment amount! Do you think that might make them sit up and take notice?

Loan Amount Rate Payment Payment Rate Home Price

$320,000.00 @ 5.25% = $1,766.00 $1,766.00 @ 5.25% = $320,000.00

$320,000.00 @ 6.00% = $1,918.00 $1,766.00 @ 6.00% = $294,700.00

$320,000.00 @ 6.50% = $2,022.00 $1,766.00 @ 6.50% = $279,540.00

$320,000.00 @ 7.00% = $2,128.00 $1,766.00 @ 7.00% = $265,566.00

$320,000.00 @ 7.50% = $2,237.00 $1,766.00 @ 7.50% = $252,680.00

$320,000.00 @ 8.00% = $2,348.00 $1,766.00 @ 8.00% = $240,775.00

FACT: Rates are Phenomenal - now!

FACT: Home Prices are Lower and Fantastic!

FACT: We are in the PERFECT STORM!

Home prices and interest rates are subject to change and both most likely will go up.

Payment will go up substantially for the exact same home!

Food for thought!

Happy selling!

Fat Flake Festival

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 23:45:11 -0600

"We are calling out the snow gods and welcoming winter back to the Wasatch" says Jessica Kunzer, spokeswoman for Ski Utah. The Fat Flake Festival is scheduled to kick off this Saturday, November 15 at the Gallivan Center in downtown Salt Lake City. Just one of the highlights of Salt Lake City's Fat Flake Festival is a race around the Gallivan Center in snow boots. (Do we know how to party or what?) Winners of the race will receive a new pair of ski boots! A vintage ski clothing contest promises to be a real hoot. There will be prizes of skis, winter clothing, and snowboards. There will be autograph sessions with famous Utah skiers and snowboarders. Live music will include a variety of bands including Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash, Cavedoll and Junior Giant. Come out to the Fat Flake Festival and help us summon up "The Greatest Snow on Earth"! Gallivan Center-Salt Lake City Plaza - 200 south between State and Main.

Bikes In The City!

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 09:42:45 -0600

If you are considering relocating to Salt Lake City, or are new to the area you may be excited to know that bicycle transportation in Salt Lake City has become much more prevalent! Bikeways have become more plentiful and user friendly. As concern over oil dependence increases, and awareness of health concerns and air pollution is more in the forefront the time has come to consider alternatives. Salt Lake City is putting the bicycle back in the life cycle. The completion of the trail that connects the Jordan River Parkway and the Bonneville Shoreline trail makes a great city wide ride! This trail is now accessible from all parts of the city! Salt Lake City even implemented the City's Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan which seeks to "enhance use of the bicycle for transportation and recreation." You can get your own copy of the SLC Bikeways map at www.slcgreen.com. Happy trails!

The Heat Is On!

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 23:50:58 -0600

How much do you know about Geothermal energy? Yeah, me too! With all the talk about going green creeping into the real estate world, Geothermal energy is a term we are bound to hear more and more about. Here's to taking our "green" education a step further!

I have recently been marketing a new condo project that has been created in a renovated building. In learning about the project I was told that the developer had tapped into an underground water source to create Geothermal energy in the new development. Having heard the term, but not being well versed on the topic, I thought I should educate myself before trying to explain it to prospective buyers. I learned some very interesting and exciting facts!

Geothermal energy is a process that transfers heat stored below ground through buried fluid-filled loops of pipe to an indoor pump. In the winter a heat exchanger can extract two thirds or more of the energy needed from the earth to warm the home through the ground. Only one-third or less of the energy needed is purchased power, primarily used to run the pump. This process is reversed in the summer, carrying heat back to the ground through the ground loop piping.

Geothermal temperature control systems can save homeowners money on their utility bills -around 70% for heat and up to 50% for cooling. How exciting is that! I'll bet you have clients who would love to have info on saving 70% off their utility bill! These systems are endorsed by the U.S. Department of Energy and the EPA.

If you are interested in educating your homebuyers, or becoming more informed yourself, about these and other green sources one good website is www.greenbuilder.com.

Salt Lake City Green

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 22:54:10 -0600

Salt Lake City Green! What is it? Salt Lake City Green is arguably the most comprehensive municipal environmental initiative in the nation. This exciting program is an effort to preserve and sustain our most precious natural resources. 'The program has brought Salt Lake City to the forefront in national and international environmental leadership.' SLC Green has already received many awards!

Started in 2001, the 'Green' program is committed to smart growth principles. SLC green promotes transit and pedestrian-oriented development. It even includes a new ordinance to promote walkable communities. The program also seeks to encourage water conservation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, among other things.

Salt Lake City and the state of Utah as a whole are known world wide for their fabulous outdoor recreation and amazing natural beauty. SLC Green seeks to maintain our high quality of life while ensuring a sustainbale future. Stay tuned for more information on SLC Green and the specific programs that support it!