Cedar City Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog posts by tag - Southern Utah Real Estatehttps://www.cedarcityonline.com/blog/Copyright CedarCityOnline.com2021-06-16T06:17:31-07:00tag:cedarcityonline.com,2012-09-20:6383Southern Utah Home Prices Increase Despite Virus Threat<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/samdodd/Sold.jpg" width="300" height="191" alt="Sold sign in front of a house" title="Sold" style="float: right; margin: 6px; border: 1px solid black;" />by Sam Dodd
Despite a rough first quarter in 2020, home sales have held up surprisingly well compared to the <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/blog/2019-iron-county-housing-market-sales-down-prices-up/" target="_blank">2019 housing market</a>. Single family home sales were particularly steady in the FLEX-MLS Southern Utah Region.
Region home sales overall in the first quarter of 2020 were up a whopping 16% compared to last year (which was sans virus, I might add). The increase in sales volume was even more impressive. Last year in the first quarter the home sales volume was at $80,346,863. In 2020 $114,642,451. The number reflects the total all homes sold in the first quarter added together and that’s a 43% increase.
Home prices were up in the first quarter of 2020 too. The average sales price for this time period last year was $242,009 in the region. The average price increased this year by 23% to $297,001.
Single-Family Home Sales Hiked Up
About 23% more single-family homes sold in the region this year than last year (247 in 2019 and 306 in 2020). Sales volume was up 50% percent. That’s crazy considering we’ve been dealing with a <a href="https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019" target="_blank">global pandemic</a>. In 2019 the sale of single-family homes grossed $67,534,873. This year in the first quarter sellers grossed $101,321,722.
Condos/Townhouse Market Not as Perky as Single-Family Homes
Although Utah’s Southern Region fared well in the single-family home market, we didn’t see quite the same story when it comes to condos and townhomes. In the first quarter of 2019 a total of 85 townhomes/condos sold. That dropped to 80 this year, which equates to a 5% decrease. Despite fewer properties being sold, the total sales volume looks good. Last year the volume was $12,811,990. This year that was up 3% to $13,320,729.
Condo sold prices were up by 10% ($150,729 in 2019, $166,509 in 2020).
Cedar City Housing Market Appears Healthy
In regards to the Cedar City housing market, we saw a 38% increase in the number of single-family homes sold in the first quarter of 2020 compared to 2019. Last year a total of 104 homes sold in the first quarter. This year 144 homes sold in Cedar City.
Sold volume in Cedar City alone was up an astounding 63% from $26,040,189 in single-family home sales last year to $42,514,688 this year.
The average sale price of single-family homes in Cedar City was up in the first quarter too in a year-over-year comparison from $250,386 to $295,241 (a 17% increase).
Condo/townhouse sales were up in Cedar City as well. The first quarter of 2019 there were 39 sales. This year, 45 properties sold for an increase of 15%. The sold volume was up 26% this year and the sales price of a condo or townhome in Cedar City actually increased by 9%. In the first quarter of 2020 the average sale price of a condo or townhome was $169,341.
Sales Spiked in Other Areas
The surrounding communities of Cedar City have been hot spots so far this year. Kanarraville and <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/new-harmony/" target="_blank">New Harmony single family homes</a> have had a 75% increase in sales. Now, don’t get too excited. Just 4 homes sold in those communities last year compared to 7 this year in the first quarter. The total sales volume is up 214% though from just $1,037,000 to $3,257,900 and that’s nothing to sneeze at!
If you own a <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/beaver/" target="_blank">single-family home in the Beaver</a>, Milford or Minersville areas you’ll be glad to know home prices were up 59% this year from an average sold price of $119,062 to $190,184.
In fact, the average sales prices of single-family homes in every Southwest Region community with the exception of Beryl, Newcastle, Enterprise and Modena where average prices dropped 9% from $175,380 to $159,100.
If you have a home to sell, this is still a great time to do it so give me a call today! 2020-04-19T07:00:00-07:002020-05-13T12:25:14-07:00Sam Doddtag:cedarcityonline.com,2012-09-20:48682019 Iron County Housing Market, Sales Down, Prices Up
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/Sam_Dodd.jpg" width="50" height="62" alt="Man wearing a suit" title="Cedar City Broker Sam Dodd" style="margin: 6px; border: 1px solid black;" />
by<br />Sam Dodd
The number of homes sold in Iron County, including <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/cedar-city/" target="_blank">homes sold in Cedar City</a>, dipped 7% in 2019 compared to 2018. That fact dragged the total volume of home sales down 2%. It’s interesting to note though that the average and median home price still increased 6% each. Following is a breakdown of statistics for home sales in Iron County and its cities.
These figures, provided by FlexMLS.com and downloaded Jan. 1, 2020 show a very slight slowing in the market, but nothing to be too concerned about. The economy is still strong, interest rates are still low and the unemployment rate is staying down in our community.
We’re seeing good growth in <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/enoch/" target="_blank">homes sold in Enoch</a>. Despite slower sales, home prices continue to creep up at a slower rate.
A picture is worth a thousand words and I invite you to take in this basic information to get a good sense of where we are with our <a href="https://www.thebalance.com/hot-cold-and-neutral-real-estate-markets-1798785" target="_blank">healthy real estate market</a> today.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/samdodd/Housing_Market/Iron_County_Housing_Market.jpg" width="400" height="222" alt="Graphic showing Iron County housing statistics" title="2018 and 2019 Home Sales" style="margin: 6px auto; display: block;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/samdodd/Housing_Market/2019_Over_2018_Sales_Page_2.jpg" width="400" alt="Graphic of Iron County Utah Home Sales Stats" title="2018 and 2019 Sales Comparison" style="margin: 6px auto; display: block;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/samdodd/Housing_Market/2019_Over_2018_Sales_Page_3.jpg" width="400" alt="Iron County Cities Sales Graphic" title="Iron County Cities Sales Graphic" style="margin: 6px auto; display: block;" />
If you have questions about the local housing market, feel free to give me a call. Let's talk about your real estate goals, including <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/blog/buying-your-first-home/" target="_blank">buying that first home</a>, and work on them together! I have a feeling 2020 will be a fantastic year!2020-01-12T05:00:00-07:002020-05-14T12:50:28-07:00Sam Doddtag:cedarcityonline.com,2012-09-20:4327Why are there Buyers' and Sellers' Agents?If the seller has an agent, do you need one to buy? Yes!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/Sam_Dodd.jpg" width="50" height="62" alt="Man wearing a suit" title="Cedar City Broker Sam Dodd" style="margin: 6px; border: 1px solid black;" />
Sam Dodd
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/samdodd/Real_Estate_Agent.jpg" width="350" height="155" alt="Real estate agent sitting at a table with clients" title="Real Estate Agent" style="float: right; margin: 6px; border: 1px solid black;" />Real estate consumers are often confused by the roles of brokers and agents. Before you contract with an agent to <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/cedar-city/" target="_blank">buy or sell a home in Cedar City</a>, understand the importance of their individual roles.
Real estate broker:
Whether you are buying or selling a home, if you decide to employ a <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/blog/5-reasons-you-definitely-need-a-realtor/" target="_blank">licensed real estate professional</a>, you will likely contract with a real estate broker. When you sign a listing agreement or an agreement with a buyer's agent, the contract is between you and the broker. Some real estate brokers do not work outside of their offices. In fact, you might never see the broker with whom you contract. Brokers generally have more experience and education than the agents that work for them.
In Utah, a real estate broker must have a minimum of three years or experience as a real estate agent. The broker studies for a state-administered exam after 120 hours of study including classes on advanced real estate principles, practices and <a href="https://statelaws.findlaw.com/utah-law/utah-property-and-real-estate-laws.html" target="_blank">Utah real estate law</a>. They must pass the Utah real estate licensing broker exam and submit the required documentation to the Utah Department of Real Estate Licensing. A successful broker will have accumulated a certain number of points prior to receiving a license based on requirements established by the state. There is a variety of requirements with regard to honor and integrity that brokers must demonstrate before they are licensed.
Once the broker earns his or her license, the broker can hire agents to work with or for him or her. Those agents must also be licensed. Even if you work directly with a real estate agent from the beginning to the end or your real estate transaction, the broker of an agency is responsible to monitor the process and ensure the transaction is handled properly. When commission is paid, it is paid to the broker, not the agent. In time, the agent will receive a portion of the commission. Some brokers actively work with buyers and sellers as an agent.
The broker with whom you work will be called a principal broker because the broker represents you, the principal.
Licensee (agent or associate broker):
Real estate agents or licensees are those hired by brokers to assist them and their clients through the process of buying or selling a home. They have to meet the statutory licensing requirements with regard to honesty, integrity, truthfulness, reputation, and competency. They also must complete a 120-hour course and pass a state-administered licensing exam. They can work under a broker, but not on their own to help people buy and sell properties.
Okay, so say you are ready to list your <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/beryl/" target="_blank">Beryl home for sale</a>. You interview a handful of agents and sign an agreement promising to work exclusively with the broker and/or the licensee(s) that represent the broker. Once you enter into a legal agreement, the broker becomes your agent and is responsible to represent your interests as a seller. This person (and anyone that directly represents the broker) has a variety of responsibilities to you as a seller and his or her loyalty must legally be to you.
If the seller has an agent, why do I need one to buy his home?
You don't have to have an agent, but I highly recommend that you do. Many brokers will establish "limited agency" and serve both the buyer and the seller in a real estate transaction. While there might be some cost savings in doing that, both the buyer and seller give up some loyalty and responsibility owed by the agent. An agent can not represent the best interests specifically of both of you and depending on the circumstances, it can get a little awkward.
While a seller is generally represented by one brokerage focused on selling his or her home, the buyer's representative focuses specifically on helping the buyer find the right home and working through the process of making an offer, negotiating, due diligence and closing. One buyer's agent might show a buyer multiple homes before the right one comes along.
If you are working with a buyer's agent, that person should be the person to schedule home tours and accompany you to each home. It is the buyer's agent's job to help you find homes that will meet your requirements.
Yeah, but whose going to pay for all this?
If your buyer's or seller's agent is a member of the local multiple listing service (MLS), your agent agrees to follow the rules set forth by the local MLS. The seller will usually pay a 6 percent commission to the listing brokerage. The listing brokerage keeps half and gives the other have to the buyer's brokerage.
There are exceptions to every rule. Be warned that if you are a seller and the listing agent brings you a willing and able buyer willing to make a full-price offer, you could be required to pay commission even if you decide you do not want to sell your home. Always read your contract carefully.
If you enlist a buyer's representative and decide to buy a home not represented by an MLS agent, or not represented by an agent at all, you could end up paying your agent's commission instead of the seller.
If you have questions about agency and the roles of any professionals in the real estate industry, just give me a quick call and I will talk you through it!2019-12-14T05:00:00-07:002020-05-14T13:51:21-07:00Sam Doddtag:cedarcityonline.com,2012-09-20:4323Before You Invest in a Short-Term Rental ...Cedar City regulates short-term rental industry
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/Sam_Dodd.jpg" width="50" height="62" alt="Man wearing a suit" title="Cedar City Broker Sam Dodd" style="margin: 6px; border: 1px solid black;" />
Sam Dodd
Yes! Your last munchkin is off to college leaving your entire walk-out basement empty at last. If you're thinking of turning that valuable space into a short-term rental, you could be on to something exciting and potentially lucrative.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/samdodd/Short_Term_Rental.jpg" width="350" height="217" alt="Rental sign in yard with trees" title="Rental Sign" style="margin: 6px; border: 1px solid black; float: right;" />The Festival City features multiple <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/blog/outdoor-activities-in-and-around-cedar-city-utah/" target="_blank">fun activities throughout the year</a> that attract people from throughout the country. Consider the Utah Shakespearean Festival, the Neil Simon Festival, the Livestock & Heritage Festival, Utah Summer Games, July Jamboree, <a href="http://www.umrf.net/" target="_blank">Mid-Summer Renaissance Fair</a> and ... I think you get the point. While we love visitors and enjoy the diversity it brings to our community. Many come to ski, hike, bike and simply experience the beauty of Southern Utah. All those people need some place to rest their weary heads! Some prefer hotel rooms, others like the bed and breakfast experience while still others are looking for something a little more personal (and economical).
What does it take to turn your <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/cedar-city/" target="_blank">Cedar City home</a> into a short-term rental?
<br />While it isn't hard to turn spare space into a short-term rental, there is more to it than most people realize. There are many factors to consider before splashing into the pool of thousands of temporary landlords throughout the world. Issues to consider are the cost of renovations, security, safety, marketing, taxes and yes, even licensing. Cedar City has business regulations and licensing requirements specific to short term rentals.
"To qualify as a short-term rental your paying guests (compensation is an important key here) must stay less than 30 days per stay."
<br />I'll summarize the code here, but if you are considering a new career in hospitality, I highly recommend you read through the <a href="https://www.cedarcity.org/DocumentCenter/View/239/Chapter-23-Business-Regs--Licenses?bidId=">Cedar City Ordinances, Chapter 23-9Q Residential Short-Term Rentals</a>.
Location & length of stay: Here, short-term rentals are "permitted in all zones for existing residential uses," according to the code. That's good news. Talk about your home-based business! To qualify as a short-term rental your paying guests (compensation is an important key here) must stay less than 30 days per stay.
Compatibility: Remember, the zoning in your residential neighborhood is intended for, well, residential purposes. Therefore, it's fine to have guests. It's even okay to charge money for short-term rentals. It is not okay to turn your neighborhood into a circus complete with tour busses parked in the street and billboards on your front lawn. Keep it low-key. Talk to your nearby neighbors about your plans and find out what you can do to help them feel more comfortable with the arrangement.
Licensing: In order to operate a short-term rental in Cedar City, you must be licensed by the municipality. If you own multiple short-term rentals (and many people do) you only need one business license. You will find the short-term rental license if you <a href="https://www.cedarcity.org/DocumentCenter/View/12832/Short-Term-Rental-Business-License-Application">click here</a>. Once you receive a license, you can't transfer it to another property and you can't transfer the license to another person. <a href="https://www.cedarcity.org/DocumentCenter/View/239/Chapter-23-Business-Regs--Licenses?bidId=">The code</a> goes into great detail about the reporting requirements for change.
In order to become licensed, you will be required to provide the following (again, this is a summary and not an inclusive list):
addresses of any properties to be used as a short-term rental
proof of the proper liability insurance
proof of adequate parking
lodging sales tax number
proof other residences within 300-feet of your residence have been notified of your short-term rental plans
proof of proper safety and security equipment (for example, fire alarms, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors)
evidence there are no HOA or CC&R restrictions that prohibit short-term rentals
assurance there will be no mobile or moving structures used for the rental business (like motorhomes and trailers)
While all of this might seem like overkill to some, the provisions are intended to protect renters and residents alike! Just remember, only residential activities belong in areas zoned residential. No business signage will be allowed.
If you have any questions about the licensing process, reach out to the Cedar City Building Department at (435) 865-4519.
This short-term rental business can be a pretty great gig if you follow all the rules and regulation. I've got access to some terrific <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/cedar-city/" target="_blank">Cedar City investment properties</a> and hope you will call me when you're ready to take the plunge!2019-12-08T05:00:00-07:002020-05-14T14:14:00-07:00Sam Doddtag:cedarcityonline.com,2012-09-20:42505 Reasons You Definitely Need a Realtor
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/Sam_Dodd.jpg" width="50" height="62" alt="Man wearing a suit" title="Cedar City Broker Sam Dodd" style="margin: 6px; border: 1px solid black;" />
by<br />Sam Dodd
Anybody can buy or sell a home, right? Well, sure. It seems pretty simple on the surface. Poke a “For Sale” sign in the ground, <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/blog/what-is-curb-appeal-and-why-do-i-need-it/" target="_blank">mow tha grass,</a> post an ad on Facebook and you’re off!
Buying a house is easy too. Find a neighbor with a house you like, negotiate the price down to what you want to pay, get a loan and botta boom, botta bang! You’re a home owner. Right?
Let’s talk.
Buying and/or <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/cedar-city/" target="_blank">selling a home in Cedar City</a> might seem pretty elementary. The concept is easy enough; but, real property purchases can actually be very complex. I don’t have any doubt that you could do it, but before you give it a go, I hope you will brush up on the following topics:
Utah Real Estate law<a href="https://statelaws.findlaw.com/utah-law/utah-property-and-real-estate-laws.html" target="_blank"></a>
contract law
agency law
real estate purchasing contracts
disclosure requirements
home inspections
insurance law
local zoning ordinances
surveys and descriptions
basics of appraisals
valuation
relevant tax laws
ownership principals
due diligence
The above information will help you prepare to make perfectly smooth what might be the most important purchase or sale of your life.
Chances are, your transaction will be smooth and worry-free. Unfortunately, some mistakes end up costing well-meaning buyers and sellers thousands of dollars. Some errors do not become apparent until a property owner passes away or attempts to transfer his or her interest in the property. If you are willing to risk the purchase or sale of real estate without the proper education or experience, please be willing to assume a serious (and very expensive) liability.
Halloween’s over and I don’t mean to try to scare you, but I’ve been in this business for some time now and have witnessed sad mistakes by inexperienced/unrepresented buyers and sellers that take years and a boat load of money to correct.
Following are five reasons you definitely need to be represented by a Realtor through property transactions:
Higher net profit. The <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/" target="_blank">National Association of Realtors</a> maintains a seller can net up to 22% more net profit on the sale of his/her home with the proper real estate agent representation than without. No questions, Realtors cost money; but, you wouldn’t get your neighbor (a plumber) to remove your appendix to save costly medical expenses, would you? Part of what you pay for is knowledge and experience. Trained real estate agents understand the intricate details of every real estate transactions and will not leave you on the table bleeding cash when it’s over.
Process knowledge. Utah has enjoyed a sellers’ market for many months now. It shouldn’t be hard to find a buyer! But, what if you find multiple buyers bullying you to sell and waving earnest money at you? Will you know how to legally handle multiple offers and do you understand the legal principles of accepting and rejecting offers or negotiating multiple counter offers? A skilled real estate agent will know how to address issues that frequently arise in different markets and can save you thousands in legal fees by handling each transaction by the book from start to finish.
Proven marketing strategy. Experienced real estate listing agents have the tools, materials, technology and experience to reach thousands of potential buyers throughout the country quickly and efficiently. They use the following to alert the world that your home is on the market and you are ready to sell:<br />-Professional staging<br />-Professional photography<br />-Professional yard signs<br />-Direct access to your local multiple listing service (MLS)<br />-A website, multiple social media accounts and access to many real estate<br />websites that will spread news of your home listing like wildfire in a matter of minutes<br />-Experience in holding open houses<br />-A large professional network to spread the news via word of mouth<br />-Experience holding safe and secure open houses
Backup. Whether your real estate agent in new to the industry or has many years of service, he or she will be fully-backed by a broker who accepts full responsibility for his or her transactions. Brokers go through extensive training and must have extensive experience in order to assume this responsibility.
Negotiation skills. Real estate agents are trained negotiators who are skilled experts at helping two parties come to a mutual agreement. When you hire a negotiator to fight for your rights and watch out for your best interest whether you are buying or <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/lund/" target="_blank">selling a home in Lund</a>, you have a specialist on your side.
With many years of experience in the real estate industry I can assure you, hiring an agent to assist you with the sale or purchase of your home is a solid plan that will protect you for years to come.2019-11-21T09:20:00-07:002020-05-15T09:25:08-07:00Sam Doddtag:cedarcityonline.com,2012-09-20:4126What is Curb Appeal and Why Do I Need It?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/Sam_Dodd.jpg" width="62px" height="77" alt="Man wearing a suit" title="Cedar City Broker Sam Dodd" style="display: block; margin-left: 6px; margin-right: 6px; border: 1px solid black;" />
by<br />Sam Dodd
The best way to get potential buyers to enter your <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/cedar-city/" target="_blank">Cedar City home for sale</a> is to create a clean, inviting environment - outside. That's right. Say I'm a buyer, I see your home advertised with glorious photos of the stunning interior. Then, say I drive by and find your yard in complete disaray. Am I likely to add it to my list of must-see properties? Well, maybe. But, if I'm prioritizing my favorite properties and those I'd like to tour yours will definitely slip toward the bottom of my list.
The term "curb appeal" relates to the condition and exterior appearance of your home. This includes landscaping, paint home and even the appearance of your front porch. It's all about that first impression people get when they pull up to the curb to approach your home.
Did you know an unkept exterior can significantly decrease the value of your home? If you think you're ready to sell your home, or your <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/blog/5-reasons-your-home-isnt-selling/" target="_blank">home may not be selling</a>, and it doesn't have great curb appeal - think again.
The time and effort you put into the appearance of your property from the street will provide an excellent return on your investment. It's something you can do to improve your home's salability without much cost and it makes a world of difference.
First impressions really do matter. Great curb appeal will set your home apart from others on the block - and others on your potential homebuyers' lists of favorites.
So, ask yourself these questions about the exterior of your home:
Is it clean? Trash is a definite turn-off. Disorganization of tools and toys can cause a potential Cedar City home buyer to drive right by your property. Picking up trash is easy. Remove anything from your yard that does not help make it aesthetically-pleasing. Look, I get it, the kids all have bikes and trikes and push toys and pull toys and baseballs and soccer balls and bats. The list goes on forever. If you need to store these items in the yard, look for creative ways to organize them. How about a nice bike rack? Maybe smaller outdoor toys can be stored in an attractive bin or some other <a href="https://www.lifestorage.com/blog/diy/the-best-diy-storage-container-solutions/" target="_blank">creative container</a> that will allow your children access to them while keeping the yard neat.
Keep yard ornaments at a minimum and study your yard for potential safety hazards. Think about investing in a hose storage unit or hose reel to keep your yard tidy.
I probably don't need to say this, but I will: please clean up pet waste regularly.
Wash and sweep your walk-ways. In the winter, keep them cleared of snow and ice. Weather permitting, spray down the exterior of your home and remove dirt and cobwebs.
How's the paint or siding? Peeling paint, bent siding and broken fencing require pretty minor repairs and yet they can decrease the curb appeal of your Cedar City home for sale. Check the trim for breaks, cracks, broken pieces and repair anything that's broken. Regular maintenance is crucial. The cost of hiring a professional to paint your home if you can't do it yourself could make the difference between a full-offer sale and a low-ball offer. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for curb appeal. If the screen door is broken, repair it and give it a glowing coat of fresh paint or replace it all together if you have to. People do notice the appearance of your front door. Replace it if it's in poor repair, paint it or have it refinished to make your home inviting.
Could your landscaping use improvement? During warmer months keep your grass well-watered and cut. Use a trimmer to give it that manicured look. Again, it's not expensive, but <a href="https://blog.fantasticgardenersmelbourne.com.au/choose-grass-type/" target="_blank">the condition of your lawn</a> could be indicative of the condition of your entire home. Add fertilizer when appropriate. Edging can really create a finished look and it will make your yard easier to maintain. Consider adding pavers, landscape rock and decorative mulch in problem areas.
Trees should be trimmed of dead limbs and wild growth. The same goes for shrubs and bushes.
How's the concrete? Cracked, peeling and broken concrete is unattractive and uneven walkways can be dangerous. Consider repairing or replacing walkways that are unsightly or a hazard.
Ornamental vegetation, decor can complete the look. Creative additions include flowers, decorative mulch, a lovely wreath on the door, an attractive ornamental arrangement on the front porch, adorable window boxes and shudders. Don't go overboard, but these little additions can warm a potential buyer's heart with a little tact and talent.
How is the lighting? Decorative and sensible yard lighting can absolutely set a mood inside your home and outside! The right lighting will make your home sparkle and make it safe. Consult with a lighting specialist to determine the best way to improve your outdoor lighting and create a welcoming ambiance for <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/enterprise/" target="_blank">selling a home in Enterprise, Utah</a>.
Not sure what you need to do to improve your curb appeal? Call me! I would be glad to visit you and make recommendations about the most economical and sensible improvements to wow and woo home buyers.
2019-10-30T10:22:00-07:002020-06-01T10:09:51-07:00Sam Doddtag:cedarcityonline.com,2012-09-20:393310 Truths About Cedar City Open Houses
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/Sam_Dodd.jpg" width="50" height="62" alt="Man wearing a suit" title="Cedar City Broker Sam Dodd" style="margin: 6px auto; border: 1px solid black; display: block;" />
by Sam Dodd
If you're ready to sell your home - really ready - you and your real estate agent will sit down and take some time to explore presentation and marketing options.Your reason will discuss ways to <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/blog/preparing-your-cedar-city-home-for-sale/?caa=true">prepare your home to sell</a> and explain the selling process. When it comes time to discuss holding an open house (or multiple open houses), take these factors into consideration.
The Good News
1. An open house is a good way to get people to come in and actually experience your home first hand. People who might not otherwise want to bother a buyer's agent to walk them through it will often come to an open house.
2. Word of mouth is a great form of advertising. Even if people who are just curious come to your open house (and not necessarily looking for a new home) are sure to discuss it with friends and neighbors. Encourage them to share their positive thoughts on social media and the exposure stretches even further.
3. Your Cedar City open house will be a good way to show your home to multiple people at once. That could ultimately save time and the hassle of showing it over and over again.
4. Your open house marketing campaign is one more great way to show off your home in flyers, brochures and on the internet. Marketing is a crucial element when <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/cedar-city/" target="_blank">selling a Cedar City home</a>.
5. If you use creative (but professional) local methods of advertising including signs and balloons, your neighbors are sure to take notice. It's a way to officially announce your house is on the market.
The Bad News
1. First and foremost you need to consider a potential security risk. Remove any valuables from your home before you open it up to strangers who might not have your best interests at heart. When you invite strangers to meander through your home, you might be inviting trouble.
2. In Cedar City families are extremely busy. They tend to run to school and church events, sports, extracurricular activities and work-related activities. Large families are especially busy. It can be difficult to find a date and time that is convenient for people to take time out of their busy schedules to attend an open house.
3. Open houses tend to attract more lookers than buyers. That's okay, for all the reasons discussed above, but people who are curious about the inside of your home will often attend just to satisfy that curiousity.
4. You will be asked to leave your home during the open house. People are enticed by the opportunity to peak in all the rooms and explore all the wonders of your home freely. If you are uncomfortable with that, discuss it with your <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/" target="_blank">Realtor</a> (i.e. me) to come to a mutually beneficial resolution.
5. Preparing your home for an open house can be a pain! Realtors get it. You're inviting strangers to tour your home (while you're not there) and you might feel a little sensitive about that. <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/blog/preparing-your-cedar-city-home-for-sale/?caa=true">Click here for more information about preparing your home for sale</a>! The better prepared you are to open your home to strangers, the less anxiety you will feel about opening your Cedar City house.
2019-09-22T15:20:00-07:002020-05-15T10:12:06-07:00Sam Doddtag:cedarcityonline.com,2012-09-20:3925Everyone Else is Going - are Ewe?Cedar City Livestock & Heritage Festival<br />OCT. 24-27, 2019
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/samdodd/Sheep%20on%20Cedar%20Mountain.jpg" width="300" height="202" alt="Sheep rounded up in a beautiful mountain setting" title="Rounding up the sheep on Cedar Mountain" style="margin: 6px auto; border: 1px solid black; display: block;" />
Sheep gather into a holding corral on Cedar Mountain to await transportation to winter range. Photo courtesy Your Content Queen, copyright 2019. all rights reserved.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/Sam_Dodd.jpg" width="50" height="62" alt="Man wearing a suit" title="Cedar City Broker Sam Dodd" style="margin-left: 6px; margin-right: 6px; border: 1px solid black; float: left;" />
by Sam Dodd
People ask me why - of all the places in the world - I live and have a <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/cedar-city/" target="_blank">home in Cedar City, Utah</a>. I prefer to think of it as "Festival City, Utah," and (at least for me) the upcoming Livestock & Heritage Festival pretty much sums up my deep love for this community. Stalwart people here truly take heroic measures to ensure our rich history is taught and treasured; but, they always keep their eyes toward the future and for this Iron County community, the future is bright.
The Heritage & Livestock Festival is just one of the many <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/blog/cheap-and-easy-things-to-do-around-cedar-city-utah/" target="_blank">Cedar City activities</a> that take place throughout each year - the Utah Shakespearean Festival, Neil Simon Festival, Rennaisance Faire and July Jamboree - are just a few that come immediately to mind. They're all special, lively, entertaining and fun. They all serve a purpose and they are all part of a rich culture I want my children to embrace. But this one, this one honors the very lifeblood that pumps through our collective throbbing heart.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/samdodd/Livestock__Heritage_Festival/sheep_parade.jpg" width="300" height="173" alt="Sheep marching down Cedar City Main Street" title="Sheep Parade in Cedar City" style="margin: 6px auto; border: 1px solid black; display: block;" />
Sheep march down Cedar City Main Street in honor of the community's rich agricultural history. Photo courtesy Your Content Queen, copyright 2019, all rights reserved.
Ewe have got to see this.
The 2019 <a href="https://www.cedarlivestockfest.com">Cedar City Livestock & Heritage Festival</a> will take place on Oct. 24-Oct. 27. This time is set apart to show respect for the farmers and ranchers who have worked so hard for generations to build what is now one of the state's most vibrant - yet, decidedly rural - communities. With the help of the Utah State University Extension office and countless volunteers, the festival was established to "Celebrate Cedar City's Rich Agricultural History."
The signature event (and a childrens' favorite) is the Sheep Parade scheduled to take place on Saturday, Oct. 26 at 10 a.m. According to the <a href="https://www.cedarlivestockfest.com">festival's official website</a> it is "... one of the most unique parades in country. Approximately 1,000 sheep will be herded down Cedar City’s Main Street. There will be historic sheep wagons, antique tractors, vintage cars, and so much more."
There's plenty more to experience during this three-day celebration including:
Cedar Chest Quilters' Quilt Show
Cowboy poets and music
Western vendors
Antique Tractor and Machinery show
Arena Stock Dog Contest
Junior Ranch Rodeo
Draft Horse Teamster Contest
Vintage Car Display
Kids' Pedal Tractor Pull
Dutch oven cooking tasting
Dennis Stowell Memorial Ranch Rodeo
Sheep lead contest
Cowboy Church
Livestock ranchers played an integral role in the settling of the West and no where is it more evident than in this town where they made it possible for early settlers (members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Ladder-day Saints arrived here in 1851). The town's first settlers enjoyed milk, butter, meat, wool and hides to clothe and keep them warm. Cattle, sheep, horses and fowl were raised to sustain people in an unforgiving high desert.
Although numbers of farmers and ranchers and their livestock have dwindled, those commodities are still primary sources of cultural wealth in and around Cedar City.
For a tentative schedule of events and more history about the livestock industry here, please visit <a href="https://www.cedarlivestockfest.com">www.cedarlivestockfest.com</a>. 2019-09-19T05:00:00-07:002020-05-15T10:43:12-07:00Sam Doddtag:cedarcityonline.com,2012-09-20:3776Outdoor activities in and around Cedar City, Utah Outdoor Fun to Be Had in Iron County
Living in Iron County comes with may advantages. Great <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/cedar-city/" target="_blank">homes for sale in Cedar City</a>, as well as surrounding cities and towns. And miles and miles of public lands that are available throughout Iron County with opportunities for fun.
But besides the open range there are also recreational spots maintained by the county government and private organizations that are available to the public. Wood’s Ranch and Three Peaks are two of these.
Wood’s Ranch Recreational Area
Wood’s Ranch Recreational Area is a day-use only area located 12 miles east of Cedar City along the scenic Highway 14. Open from May through October, this high-country park is designed for Iron County residents and their friends to enjoy. Situated in lush aspen and pine forest, Woods Ranch is a popular family spot for picnics, hikingand biking. There’s also a fishing hole called Kid’s Pond for those who want to try their hand at catching some Rainbow and Brook Trout. This beautiful area is also the starting point for the 32 - mile Virgin River hiking trail. There are picnic tables, fire rings, restroom facilities and a volleyball court. Two cover pavilions are available for group gatherings. These pavilions need to be reserved in advance. Overnight camping is not permitted. However, the Cedar Canyon Campground is located nearby. Contact<br />the Dixie National Forest for camping information at 435-865-3200.
Three Peaks Recreational Complex
Iron County and the Bureau of Land Management have teamed up in a cooperative effort to develop and maintain this 6,500-acre recreational area.<br />With rolling hills and volcanic rock formations, Three Peaks is located just 10 miles west of Cedar City.<br />The Iron County portion of Three Peaks is great for group gatherings, rock crawling, picnicking and camping. There are picnic tables and restrooms with two pavilions in the picnic area that contain fire grills available for reservations.<br />There are also BLM-managed OHV/ATV trails and mountain bike trails as well as an equestrian area.
Iron County Shooting Range
At the far western edge of the Three Peak Recreational Complex is the Iron County Shooting Range — a dedicated target shooting area featuring a long and short range. There is also a cowboy action shooting range available for organized events, reservation required.<br />The range has trash cans and a restroom available.
Three Peaks Model Port — RC Flying Field
Radio control flyers will love the new field at the <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/blog/three-peaks-a-mecca-for-outdoor-recreation/" target="_blank">Three Peaks</a> complex. Located in the northern section, the field adheres to the Academy of Model Aeronautics standards and features a 500- foot by 60-foot paved runway along with a large parking area and restroom facilities.
Cedar Trap Club Range
One of the venues for the Utah Summer Games the <a href="http://cedartrapclub.com/" target="_blank">Cedar Trap Club</a> range includes 4 trap ranges, pat trap throwing machines, Canterbury Voice Release Systems, club house, restroom and concrete walkways throughout.<br />Located just west of Cedar City at 1150 W. Kitty Hawk, the range has specific hours of operation however, appointments for groups of 5 or more shooters can be arranged by calling Harley Thompson at 435-590-8457.
Iron Mine Race Park
The Iron Mine Race Track is considered Southern Utah’s Premier Motorsports Park and is located west of Cedar City off Iron Springs Road. The track is open from April through October and hosts many local and regional events<br />throughout the season. In addition, the owners of the track also host open practices, private track rental, a professional riding school and much more.
Cross Hollows Event Center
The <a href="https://www.cedarcity.org/117/Cross-Hollow-Arenas" target="_blank">Cross Hollow Event Center</a> is a 30-acre facility consisting of two arenas; the Outdoor arena and Indoor area and a stall barn that houses 125 covered stalls for overnight rental. The facility allows open riding on days when events are not scheduled for a low cost of $3 per horse per day or yearly membership of $100. The arenas host a variety of events including; equestrian events such as PRCA Rodeo, Professional Bull Riders, Great American Stampede, Jr. Rodeos, Barrel Racing, Roping, Reining, Team Sorting and Summer Games Equestrian Events. The Center also acts a multi-purpose facility that also hosts events such as archery shoots, dog shows, tool sales, stock show and the Heritage Festival.
What did I miss? Leave a comment below so I have more ideas about things to write about! 2019-09-17T15:45:00-07:002020-05-15T11:25:57-07:00Sam Doddtag:cedarcityonline.com,2012-09-20:3772What to Know Before Hiring a RealtorWhat Everyone Should Know Before Hiring a Listing Agent
Your relationship with a listing agent is going to last for at least a couple of months, if not longer. So, it’s important to choose an agent you like but also one that won’t spell financial disaster for your pocketbook. After all — the goal is to make money — not lose it. But with more than 300 realtors in Iron County, Utah and 250 just in Cedar City that’s a lot of resumes and websites to wade through before you find the right one to <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/sellers/" target="_blank">sell your home in Cedar City</a>. Interview at least three agents before deciding who to hire.
Here are some tips for vetting potential real estate agents that will help you find the selling process far smoother.
Treat it like a job interview.
When you sign with a real estate agent you’re effectively hiring them to perform a service so make sure they’re qualified to do the job. Ask questions, like, "<a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/blog/why-you-should-consider-selling-in-the-winter/" target="_blank">Should I sell my home in the winter</a>?" Look at their resume and interview more than one candidate.<br /><br />Most sellers select the first agent they meet, which often results in disaster.<br />You want to put the time into this as it could cost you thousands of dollars and waste tons of time if you choose the wrong agent.
Pay attention to the realtor’s communication skills.
Your <a href="https://magazine.realtor/sales-and-marketing/handouts-for-customers/for-sellers/7-reasons-to-work-with-a-realtor" target="_blank">Realtor</a> needs to be able to not only effectively communicate with you but it’s also important they know how to listen to your needs. Good communication skills are imperative to selling your home and possibly finding you a new one. Your agent should have a communication plan that includes updating you on the market, the marketing he/she is doing and provides you with feedback within a reasonable time.
Look for someone with experience.
Let new agents learn their skill on someone else’s dime. Hire someone who has experience, time in the industry and a strong network of other agents they work with on behalf of their clients.
Get references.
As with any job interview, you should check the realtor’s references.<br />Ask the agent’s you’re interviewing for the contact information of previous clients and call around to other professionals in the market to find out even more about a potential agent’s reputation. Zillow and Google also can provide you with both good and bad reviews of the agents prior performance.
Talk about marketing
Bottom line — marketing sells homes and should be a subject discussed in the initial meeting with potential agents. What plans do they have to sell your home, ask to see previous marketing strategies they’ve used and ask them to be clear on what expectations they have of you as the seller.
Since most marketing is done online now, your agent should be skilled in using<br />both the Internet and social media to sell your home. Look on their web site and their Facebook page to see how they use these resources to market other homes they have listed.
Listen with a skeptical ear when it comes to money talk. Real estate agents<br />will usually give you an estimate on your home’s value when they make their<br />pitch. Don’t let this cloud your judgment. If two sales agents give you an estimate on your home that is close in price and another gives you a higher estimate you can almost guarantee they’re trying to lure you in with promises they can’t keep. An overpriced home will sit on the market sometimes for months.
Make sure your agent is realistic and honest. Likewise, hiring an agent who agrees to the lowest commission rate isn’t necessarily a wise move either. Buyer agents, who will split the commission with the listing agent, can see the commission amount. If they aren’t going to make a lot of money they won’t be motivated to show your property. So, make sure the commission rate is high enough to make it worth their time. The more agents showing your home, the faster you’ll sell it.
Hire the agent you trust. Much of your personal and financial information will be available to your agent, only sign with the one you trust to work in your best<br />interest. Trust and honesty should also be important to the agent as long-term<br />relationships guarantee future deals either through referrals or return clients.
Lastly, make sure the agent isn't charging you junk fees or cancelation fees. Many times unscrupalous agents will call these administrative fees, compliance fees, and transaction fees. These are just made up fees the agent tacks on to make a little extra money.
If you are considering <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/mammoth-creek/" target="_blank">selling your home in Mammoth Creek</a>, I would love a chance to interview with you and show you what I can do! All you need to do to set this up is use the contact form below. 2019-08-28T14:36:00-07:002020-05-15T12:27:57-07:00Sam Doddtag:cedarcityonline.com,2012-09-20:3771Proven Ways to Increase the Value of Your Home When SellingProven Ways to Increase the Resale Value of Your Home
When it comes to <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/cedar-city/crescent-heights/" target="_blank">selling your Crescent Heights home in Cedar City</a>, and getting a good price for it, little things mean a lot. But if you only have so much time and money to invest where do you start?
In an effort to answer this question, Consumer Reports National Research Center conducted an online survey in 2005 of 303 real estate professionals from around the country and what they found was some simple strategies that don’t take a lot of time or money.
Stage and declutter your home
While not expensive, clearing out the clutter in your home is one of the most important changes you can make in helping to stage your property to compete with the competition. This means keeping up on needed repairs, cleaning the walls and baseboards and minimizing clutter from your everyday life like the mail laying on the kitchen counters.
“It’s remarkable what regular home maintenance, <a href="https://fantasticcleaners.com.au/blog/apartment-cleaning-schedule/" target="_blank">cleanliness and minimizing clutter</a> can do for you when it comes time to sell your home,” Stratum Realtor Sam Dodd said. “It’s all about staging. Not everyone likes your pets, hobbies, sports teams or religion.” Clean it up “If it’s dirty, it won’t sell,” Dodd said, “no matter what. It can be in a great location and have the perfect layout for a potential buyer but if it’s not clean none of that matters.”
In fact, most of the agents who took the survey said they focus on overall cleanliness and space as the biggest factor in selling a home. According to <a href="https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/index.htm" target="_blank">Consumer Reports</a>, cleaning can deliver a 3 to 5 percent return on investment, and it’s something that doesn’t cost any money because you can do it yourself.<br />When showing the home, raise window blinds, lower toilet seats and make sure the place looks at least as good as it would if you were having someone important over for dinner.
Enhance your curb appeal
Like the other two suggestions, first impressions make a big difference in whether you sell your home and the return you’ll get back. Make sure the outside of the home matches the inside. As soon as a potential buyer drives up to your house, they’re making judgments. That's the value of a <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/blog/what-is-curb-appeal-and-why-do-i-need-it/" target="_blank">homes curb appeal</a>.
This means evens a broken mailbox can cost you a sale. Invest in some potted plants and mow your lawn. Likewise, make sure there’s no garbage laying around and clean up the toys skewed across the front yard.
Pay attention to details
The things you may think are insignificant are the very ones that may turn out to be major selling points. This includes paint touch-ups, clean windows and replacing fluorescent bulbs with incandescent or halogen ones and removing or minimizing the art on the wall.
If the budget allows, adding new appliances in the kitchen, replacing <a href="https://cabinetsdirectusa.com/kitchen/3-major-door-styles-in-kitchen-cabinetry/" target="_blank">kitchen cabinets</a> or upgrading to energy-efficient windows can also bring in more money. Refresh your kitchen and bath. These are some of the most important rooms in your home. Consumer Reports estimates you can increase your home’s value by as much as 7 percent through renovation. If you don’t have the budget for renovations, I recommend at least fresh paint. “Fresh paint is a low-hanging opportunity to freshen up your space and potentially boost your asking price.”
Choose a neutral palette to increase the appeal to as many tastes as possible. Buyers need to be able to visualize themselves living in the home and certain paint colors may send them down the street.
That said, however, I advised homeowners against putting a lot of money into things like carpet, paint and other aesthetics that a new homeowner will likely want to change anyway.
Invest in good photos for the listing
Make sure your real estate agent offers great photos that show your home in its best light when it comes time to list it. This is often the very first impression a buyer will have. Looking at the photos online is when they decide whether they want to visit. If the photos don’t do the home justice, you’ll lose potential buyers before you even have a chance to show them the home.
Also, when it comes to open houses and showings, I suggest the homeowner leave. Sellers often get in the way of a sale by taking things too personally. It’s a good idea to leave this to the realtor.
Are you considering <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/parowan/" target="_blank">selling your home in Parowan</a>? Fill out the contact form and I will call you to schedule a time where I can discuss these options as well as give you an approximate sales value on your home. It has no cost or obligation and could save you thousands of dollars. 2019-08-22T14:28:00-07:002021-06-16T06:17:31-07:00Sam Doddtag:cedarcityonline.com,2012-09-20:3763Iron County Market Update<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/1.jpg" width="1000" height="1294" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1421/image/2.jpg" width="1000" height="1294" />
If you have any questions about the <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/cedar-city/" target="_blank">real estate market in Cedar City</a> or if there is anything I can do for you please let me know. We are working hard to make sure our clients homes sell during this market transition. Please fill out the <a href="https://www.cedarcityonline.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact form</a> a member of our team. 2019-08-08T10:31:00-07:002020-05-15T13:18:37-07:00Sam Dodd