Utah Real Estate Podcast

What is happening to the land that used to be the Draper prison? That’s the question so many people have especially when you drive by and wonder what’s actually going on out there. We’re joined by Executive Director of The Point, Michael Ambre, to give us a clear look at the vision and what’s ahead. This 600-acre development is expected to bring nearly 46,000 jobs and billions in economic impact, along with new opportunities for homeownership. The plan includes attracting corporate headquarters and innovative companies, while also creating space for startups, small businesses, and student-led innovation through places like Convergence Hall. With housing, dining, trails, and a 5,000-seat entertainment venue, it’s all designed to create a connected, walkable environment where people can live, work, and spend time. Links & Resources:• The Point Website: https://thepointutah.org• Contact Email: [email protected]• Public Board Meetings: https://thepointutah.org/public-meetings/board-meetings• If you want to hear how it all started, go back and listen to our episode with Alan Matheson on Feb 11th, 2021 on the Utah Real Estate Podcast. https://open.spotify.com/episode/6ph3DKsaOerwONh8IYZoTf?si=ipH00kWtQVqgkqO4W1UXBw

In this episode of the Utah Real Estate Podcast, we’re shining a City Spotlight on Bluffdale, Utah a community that’s growing fast while still keeping its small-town charm. Joining us is Grant Crowell, Bluffdale’s Community and Economic Development Director. With nearly 30 years of experience in urban planning and community growth, Grant gives us an inside look at what’s shaping Bluffdale’s future from the long-awaited Smith’s and new local restaurants to the 14600 South underpass project and the planned FrontRunner station that will better connect residents across the valley. Whether you live here, work in real estate, or just love seeing Utah’s cities evolve, this episode offers a front-row seat to Bluffdale’s big moment.https://www.bluffdale.gov/367/Projects-in-Bluffdale

What if you could find a city that’s both affordable and close to everything, yet still offers the kind of acreage that’s disappearing across the Wasatch Front? In this City Spotlight episode, we sit down with Stephen Nelson, Community Development Director of West Haven City, to talk about what makes this community such a unique place to live. West Haven gives families options spacious half-acre lots alongside new townhomes and apartments while keeping housing more affordable than Salt Lake. With quick access to Ogden, Hill Air Force Base, and just 30 minutes to downtown Salt Lake City, it blends convenience with open space and recreation. Nelson shares how the city is planning for the future expanding parks and trails, engaging residents in long-term visioning, and striking a balance between growth and preserving the small-town character that draws families to West Haven.

What if a city could grow without losing what made it great in the first place? That’s exactly what’s happening in Sandy, Utah. With a new NHL training facility under construction, over 400 new housing units in the works, and plans for a pedestrian bridge connecting to FrontRunner, Sandy is embracing bold development.In this City Spotlight episode, we sat down with Mayor Monica Zoltanski to hear firsthand how the city is managing growth with intention. One of the most important takeaways? While Sandy supports higher-density development, the city is not placing it in established single-family neighborhoods. Instead, the focus is on targeted areas like The Cairns District, where housing, transit, and commercial space are thoughtfully integrated. This includes plans for attainable housing homes that teachers, city employees, and first-time buyers can realistically afford.From infrastructure upgrades and a new fire station to community-led planning and long-term vision, Sandy is preparing for the future while preserving the character that makes it home.Want to learn more or get in touch with city leadership?Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/MayorZoltanskiInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandycityutah/Explore Sandy’s current and future projects:https://content.civicplus.com/api/assets/6b0d5de6-8fa8-4820-bfb4-8a4b5cf2e13a

What do avalanche-proof canyons, smart traffic signals, and reversible lanes have in common? They're all part of Utah’s bold plan to keep up with one of the fastest-growing populations in the country. In this episode of the Utah Real Estate Podcast, we sit down with Elizabeth McMillan, Director of Strategic Communications at the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT), to explore how the agency is shaping the future of mobility from massive projects like the Mountain View Corridor to innovative solutions like connected vehicle tech. Whether you drive I-15 daily or dream of Olympic-ready transit, this conversation is a must-listen.Follow UDOT for updates: https://www.instagram.com/utahtransportation/

Welcome to Lehi, a city that blends pioneer heritage with 21st-century growth. Established in 1850, Lehi is one of the oldest and fastest-growing cities in Utah. Tucked between Salt Lake City and Provo, it has evolved from farmland to Silicon Slopes. In this City Spotlight episode, we take you behind the scenes with Kim Struthers, Lehi City’s Community Development Director, who has served the city for nearly 29 years to explore how what you see on the roads, in the neighborhoods, and on the trail maps is the result of decades of planning. From multi-billion-dollar tech investments and massive developments to transit-focused communities and conserved trails, this conversation uncovers how Lehi is thoughtfully balancing rapid growth with its historic roots. What You’ll Hear in This Episode1. Road Expansion & Traffic ManagementMountain View Corridor freeway extension from SR‑73 through Lehi toward Redwood Road is underway, easing commuting pressures Flex lanes on Pioneer Crossing will adapt lane direction between peak hours to improve traffic flow as part of a $77 million UDOT plan expected to conclude by 2027 2. Tech Growth & Residential ExpansionTexas Instruments is investing $11 billion in a semiconductor plant expansion, creating around 800 high-tech jobs in Lehi .D.R. Horton’s Inverness is a 2,400-unit master-planned community under development near TI, complete with a future temple site and integrated trails and parks.3. Mixed-Use DevelopmentsThe Skyview West project spans 100 acres along Timpanogos Highway, combining commercial, office, mixed-use housing, and fitness facilities4. Open Space & Trails900 acres on Traverse Mountain have been permanently conserved, ensuring public access and wildlife protection. Trails now connect Lehi to Traverse Mountain, Draper, and the Murdoch Canal Trail with multi-use paths and mountain bike routes.5. Transit-Oriented DevelopmentThe Front Runner station area at Thanksgiving Point will feature 2,000+ new homes, offices, and retail, surrounding future transit hubs .Lehi is also exploring transit options along the old rail corridor near Cabela’s and participating in the Fresh Look Transit Study for regional connectivity 6. Schools & Lot Size DiversityCollaboration with Alpine School District ensures school sites are reserved in growing communities like Inverness and west Lehi.Zoning maintains a variety of lot sizes, preserving areas with half-acre or larger lots to maintain community diversity.7. Civic Buildings & Downtown PreservationLehi’s new City Hall, library, and police station feature historically inspired architecture reminiscent of the pioneer-era tabernacle The historic Main Street district remains central to civic identity and heritage.Lehi isn’t just growing it’s evolving with purpose. From trail systems that connect communities to transit-ready developments that reduce car dependency, every project is part of a bigger vision. As Kim reminded us, city planning is more than maps and permits it’s about shaping places where people want to live, work, and stay. Whether you're new to the area or a lifelong resident, Lehi's next chapter is one worth paying attention to.Learn More About Lehi: Website: https://www.lehi-ut.gov/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lehi_city/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lehicityConnect with Us:Instagram: ⁠http://instagram.com/utahrealestatepodcast⁠Facebook: ⁠http://facebook.com/utahrealestatepodcast⁠LinkedIn: ⁠http://linkedin.com/company/utah-real-estate-podcast⁠

When you think about a "port", you probably imagine shipping containers and oceanfront cities. Not Utah. But that is exactly what makes the Utah Inland Port such a powerful and surprising development.In this episode of the Utah Real Estate Podcast, we sat down with Ben Hart, Executive Director of the Utah Inland Port Authority, to help explain what the inland port is, why it matters, and how it could affect nearly every Utahn whether you are a homeowner, business owner, or just someone waiting on a delivery.What is the Utah Inland Port?The Utah Inland Port isn’t a single building or a warehouse. It’s a network of infrastructure projects across the state rail, road, and air systems designed to make it easier and more cost-effective to move goods in and out of Utah.As Ben explained, most of what we use each day from clothes to furniture to construction materials has to come from somewhere else. Utah doesn’t have direct access to the coast, so we rely heavily on trucking. That means more traffic, slower deliveries, and higher shipping costs.The port authority’s mission is to upgrade that system. “We’re trying to build smarter ways to ship,” Ben said. “That means strengthening air cargo, expanding rail, and investing in the infrastructure that helps businesses grow while easing the burden on our roads.”Why It Matters to EveryoneYou don’t have to be in the shipping industry to feel the effects. For most Utahns, the benefits will show up in simple ways: fewer trucks on the freeway, quicker shipping times, and less pollution.Projects like the new rail hub in Cedar City are already reducing highway traffic. “They used to send thousands of trucks up to Salt Lake,” Ben shared. “Now, with direct rail access, they can ship more efficiently saving time, money, and emissions.”And for rural communities, the benefits are even more direct. In Garland, Utah, a partnership with the port helped bring in a $50 million investment and 500 new jobs through a company called Lakeshore Learning. These kinds of wins create ripple effects new income, housing demand, and long-term growth.Small Business, Big ImpactWhile the port helps large companies move freight, it also opens doors for smaller businesses looking to scale. Ben pointed out that many local manufacturers already supply major companies like Boeing but need better access to national and global markets.“Once these businesses realize they can export globally without leaving Utah, it changes the game,” What About the Environment?Naturally, a project of this scale raises environmental concerns especially regarding the Great Salt Lake. But Ben emphasized that protecting Utah’s natural resources is part of the plan.In the last year alone, the Port Authority directed $2.5 million to preserve sensitive wetland areas. It has also committed to working only with low water-use industries near the lake and has implemented strict protections in places like Weber County.“We’re not here to build at all costs,” Ben said. “We’re here to grow responsibly, and that means preserving the land we depend on.”Looking AheadAccording to Ben, what excites him most is the long-term, generational impact of the work being done. The Port Authority is currently active in 15 counties, with project areas stretching from Cedar City to Price. The goal is to create a more efficient, more resilient economy for Utah’s future.“If we do this right, people may not even notice,” he said. “They’ll just get packages faster, spend less on shipping, breathe cleaner air, and have access to better jobs. And that’s a win.”Learn More:Utah Inland Port Authorityhttp://inlandportauthority.utah.govBen Hart – Executive Director Biohttp://inlandportauthority.utah.gov/leadershipConnect with Us:Instagram: http://instagram.com/utahrealestatepodcastFacebook: http://facebook.com/utahrealestatepodcastLinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/utah-real-estate-podcast

What if your empty garage, RV pad, or unused driveway could start paying your utilities—or even replace your side hustle? In this episode of the Utah Real Estate Podcast, hosts Steph Shoell and the Silver Dollar Man sit down with Joseph Woodbury, Co-Founder and CEO of Neighbor, a platform that's redefining passive income through storage and parking rentals.Neighbor empowers homeowners, businesses, and even major REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) to turn underutilized space into steady income—without the stress of traditional rentals. Joseph shares how everyday Utahns (and folks across all 50 states) are generating anywhere from $100 a month to six-figure incomes with almost no effort.We discuss:What types of spaces are in highest demand (hint: garages + RV pads!) How one Utah teacher is making $10K a year passivelyThe insurance and legal protections Neighbor provides The concept of full property monetizationThe surprising social impact of renting to your neighborsWhether you’re a homeowner with a spare garage, a landlord looking to double your cash flow, or just someone curious about new ways to earn without lifting a finger—Neighbor might be your next big move. Learn more & start hosting at: neighbor.com/hostJoseph Woodbury – CEO of Neighbor

St. George is heating up—and we’re not just talking about the weather. This week, we’re putting the spotlight on a city that’s not only stunning but also booming with growth. Did you know that St. George was ranked the fastest-growing metro area in the U.S. in 2021 by the U.S. Census Bureau? And it continues to be one of the top growing cities in Utah today.To help us dive into what’s really happening behind the scenes, we’re joined by Carol Winner, Community Development Director for the City of St. George. From the massive Tech Ridge project on the old airport site to residential developments like Desert Color and DeVario, Carol shares the inside scoop on how the city is preparing for the future while honoring its history.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:Why Tech Ridge is the future of tech and livability in southern UtahHow Desert Color is blending mega-lagoon paddleboarding fun with smart community designWhere the city is adding density, especially in downtown and through accessory dwelling units (ADUs)Why St. George is holding strong on limiting short-term rentals to preserve housing for residentsWhat makes the trails and parks system in St. George truly world-classHow Carol went from drawing house plans in 4th grade to shaping one of the fastest-growing cities in AmericaThe importance of preserving historic homes and what’s coming next for downtown developmentRESOURCE LINKS:Explore St. George’s growth and latest developments here:City of St. George – Community Development: http://www.sgcity.org/communitydevelopment/Desert Color Master Planned Community: https://desertcolor.com/Tech Ridge Innovation District: https://techridge.com/Economic Development Projects Overview: https://sgcityutah.gov/departments/economic_development/development_projects.phpDeVario Residential Community: https://www.divarioliving.com/Follow us on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/utahrealestatepodcast

We’re back—Season 5 is here! After a two-year hiatus, The Utah Real Estate Podcast returns with a fresh focus, a new structure, and the same commitment to delivering trusted insights to homeowners and professionals across the state.In this kickoff episode, Steph Shoell and Scott “Silver Dollar Man” Stephenson reflect on how the show has evolved since 2018. In early seasons, they tackled foundational questions like “What is earnest money?” and “What types of loans are available?” Over time, the focus shifted to conversations with government leaders and industry experts on issues like infrastructure, water, growth, and housing.Now in Season 5, the podcast will spotlight Utah’s fastest-growing cities, featuring local planners and leaders who are shaping the future of the state. Each episode will give listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what’s coming—and why it matters.What You'll Learn in This Episode:What’s new in Season 5 and why now was the right time to returnThe show’s evolution from homeowner basics to expert-led conversationsWhy Utah’s rapid growth makes these episodes more relevant than everHow city spotlights and planning previews will play a central role this seasonA look back at standout guests and topics from past seasonsHow you can help shape the show by nominating guests and topicsHelp Us Shape the ShowHave a question you’ve always wanted answered? Know a city leader, developer, or expert we should talk to?We want to hear from you. Help us make this season the most informative yet.Connect with Us:Text /Call:⁠ 801-946-1208⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/utahrealestatepodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/utahrealestatepodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/utah-real-estate-podcastSilver Dollar Man Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silverdollarman

Have you ever pondered the fate of Utah's beloved Great Salt Lake? Join us as we chat with Candice Hasenyager, Director of the Utah Division of Water Resources. She'll reveal why acknowledging its importance is crucial for responsible growth planning and how Governor Cox’s proclamation will play a role in protecting it - all while providing insight on reducing urban water use! For anyone curious about what this means for our limited supply - listen up!

Accessory Dwelling Units, or mini homes, are becoming an increasingly popular solution to the affordable housing crisis. Troy Jensen is an expert in residential housing with New Residential Solutions. He specializes in developing and implementing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a viable solution to meet the affordable housing needs here in Utah. ADUs offer an alternative to traditional housing that typically come with much higher costs. By providing living spaces that are smaller than conventional homes yet still comfy and efficient, ADUs decrease the cost of ownership. They also make it easier to rent out extra space for supplemental income and provide more flexibility with homeownership. 

Over the past few years, flipping a home has become a popular investing strategy as interest rates remain low, but is it still profitable with inflation and rising interest rates? To answer this question, Matt Strong with Sierra-West Funding. Matt is also the local president of the Salt Lake Real Estate Investors Association. Share his expert opinion on whether or not flipping homes can be viable during these tough economic times.

The market is shifting, and many are curious about what experienced real estate investors are doing now. Clay Rockwood, Co-Founder, and Partner of Soar Capital Group, share his insights on what he's investing in right now and why. This episode is a must-listen if you want to get into real estate or know where the market is headed!

Are you curious about the tiny house movement? What is all the hype about? From practical considerations to financial benefits, find out if a tiny home might be right for you! Join us as we chat with Tiny Home builder Adam Breen with Breen Homes to learn more about this growing trend in homeownership.

As the population of Utah continues to grow, it's essential to have individuals like Steve Newton who have experienced city planning firsthand. As a two-term City Councilmember and one-term Mayor of Sandy City in the 1980s, Steve was responsible for coordinating planning and helping ensure the city ran smoothly. Nowadays, Steve is a corporate and business lawyer. His firsthand experience with city planning makes him the perfect person to comment on the pros and cons of Utah's growth.

Hey Utah, welcome to another episode of the Utah Real Estate Podcast. We're excited to have Dallin Corbridge with Sego Homes here today to tell us about the Innovator, a unique three-story home featured in the Salt Lake Parade of Homes. The Innovator is located in Daybreak and features a third-floor entertainment space perfect for indoor/outdoor entertaining. With stunning views and open staircases, this home is sure to impress.

Manifest Development and Breen Homes present "The George" in the 2022 Salt Lake Parade of Homes. "The George" is a perfect example of why the Salt Lake Parade of Homes is for everyone. Adam Breen, the owner of Breen homes, describes the design of the four-plex. Adam has extensive knowledge of the home building industry, from land layout to framing to design and final touches. Over the past decade, Adam has built everything from track housing to high-end custom homes. Adam is also an integral partner of the Utah Cribs Development Company, where he works to fulfill his dream of building Utah's future one house at a time. He walks clients through the entire home-building process. As a result, Adam has been a considerable asset to professionals and clients seeking professional help in the industry. What Makes Salt Lake City a Great Place to Live Many people move to Salt Lake to work in the tech industry. However, the job scene isn't the only attraction for families moving to Salt Lake City and the surrounding area. "It's livability, attainability, for everyone. Adam says there's a range of livability in the Salt Lake Valley, which makes our location such an attractive place to live. You can see various homes, from a townhome to a custom home." Incorporating Ideas from the Parade of Homes Many times, people can't afford the large homes that are on display at the Parade of Homes. However, Adam suggests you don't go to the Parade of Homes to see the homes you can't afford. "Go there to take home new ideas such as what to do with your unfinished basement space, how to remodel your kitchen, or how you can landscape your backyard." Downtown you'll see old homes remodeled or rebuilt. When you head west, you get new development. Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas "have this unique variation of housing opportunity, so we say that the Salt Lake Parade of Homes is for everybody." Adam Breen, the owner of Breen homes, talks about The George in the Salt Lake Parade of Homes. Over the past decade, he's built everything from track housing to high-end custom homes. Adam has extensive knowledge of the home building industry, from land layout to framing to design and final touches. Adam is also an integral partner of the Utah Cribs Development Company, where he works to fulfill his dream of building Utah's future one house at a time. He walks clients through the entire home-building process. As a result, Adam has been a considerable asset to professionals and clients seeking professional help in the industry. About The George The George is a four-plex unit with street access. The units are set up like a townhome and are stacked on about ⅓ of an acre parcel downtown Salt Lake. In addition, the townhome setup is on Washington street, thus the name the George. What Makes Salt Lake City a Great Place to Live Many people move to Salt Lake to work in the tech industry. However, the job scene isn't the only attraction for families moving to Salt Lake City and the surrounding area. "It's livability, attainability, for everyone. You can see various homes, from a townhome to a custom home." Adam says there's a range of livability in the Salt Lake Valley, which makes our location such an attractive place to live. Incorporating Ideas from the Parade of Homes Many times, people can't afford the large homes that are on display at the Parade of Homes. However, Adam suggests you don't go to the Parade of Homes to see the homes you can't afford. "Go there to take home new ideas such as what to do with your unfinished basement space, how to remodel your kitchen, or how you can landscape your backyard." Downtown you'll see old homes that are restored, remodeled, or rebuilt. When you head west, you get new development. Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas "have this unique va...

Dan Milar from Gordon Milar Construction discusses “The Modern Murray Perch” in the Salt Lake Parade of Homes. Gordon Milar Construction is a family-owned business and a premier custom home builder in northern Utah. The team enjoys establishing and maintaining long-term relationships with clients and industry partners. Building Custom Homes In Utah County Gordon Milar builds between 30 and 40 custom homes each year. Every one of their homes is custom built for their client and to fit the property. Gordon Milar, who founded the custom home building company, had been frustrated with the lack of flexibility with home building. As a result, he built Gordon Milar Construction to be flexible enough to build on any of their client’s choices, and because of their home building niche, they’ve built on quite a few challenging lots. Designing Homes with a View On their latest custom home build, they needed to find a solution for building a client’s home, which had a 25-foot drop on one side of the property. “We wanted the home to sit on the high side to capture the views and design the yard to work nicely.” The home is perched on a hill in Murray, featuring views on the side of the house. “The other complex challenge with this lot is that it’s a fairly shallow lot front to back.” The team needed to be aware of the depth of the home design and had to use the side yard for terracing and the basement area.

If you're looking for a home that will let you bring your hobbies to life, look no further than “The Ollie'' by Davies Design Build. This stunning home, featured in the Salt Lake Parade of Homes, includes a skateboard park in the basement - complete with Graffiti by a local artist. Davies Design Build is passionate about making homeowners' dreams come true, and it shows in every detail of this one-of-a-kind home. Whether you're an avid skater or just looking for a unique feature, the Ollie is sure to impress. ED Axley is the CEO of Daves Design Build, a top award-winning luxury and custom home builder. Davies Design Build has earned a remarkable reputation as a leader in the home construction industry. With decades of experience in the design-build process, Davies delivers the peak in customization and style, with some of the highest quality structures in Utah real estate. Building Custom Homes in Utah Ed likes his homes to compliment the natural aesthetics of the scenery around them. In addition, he proportions his homes to the lots, so the design fits the lot they are built on in Utah. "The intent and inspiration behind the homes is to take advantage of its environment. The mountains around it, the hills, the rocks, and the trees. The home fits into the environment while allowing the person on the inside to look through fabulous windows, great settings, and big open areas." These elements are the main reasons designs are breathtaking and very popular among home buyers. The Inspiration Behind the Custom Home Build Designing "We do interesting, and amazing special custom builds in our homes from skate parks to fire poles and climbing gyms." No matter your specialty or hobby, the designer at Daves Design Build can make it happen for you! The Client Experience at Davies Custom Home Build Ed's company doesn't have one architectural style that they build. "We believe that we are curators of architectural interpretations." Whatever their clients' wishes, Ed's team will curate designs, materials, and elements around their clients' wishes. "Ultimately, the museum on display becomes loved by the client and their family." When working with clients, Ed's team curates the elements around the design-build to make a custom home built around their customers' lifestyles.

Symphony Homes presents "The Octave" in the 2022 Salt Lake Parade of Homes. This house is in South Jordan and features a stunning kitchen with TWO butler pantries. Cash Knight, Director of New Construction, shares that the word "symphony" is synonymous with quality. When you think of a grand symphony, every piece must be harmonious to create a masterpiece. Kim Carlson, Marketing Director, adds that the team at Symphony is all about orchestrating your dreams! Symphony Homes History The nature of Symphony Homes is to build a customized home for their clients, so you're not starting your home from scratch. Cash shares, "We start with the base plan, but the clients get to change walls or any other feature in their home." The homes built by the company owners starting 30 years ago have shown the value of the area and how the company has focused on hiring the right people who are also interested in building customized homes. All of the homes from Symphony Homes have a music-related name and theme to give you the feel of the Symphony; the Tempo, Forte, and Cannon are just a few examples.

Kristen Mortensen became the first female president of the Salt Lake Home Builders Association shortly before the housing crash in 2008. Now, she's a partner in Goldcrest Homes and is coming up on having worked on 1000 homes. Goldcrest Homes has a passion for building with women in mind, as women are driving 80% of home sales and are typically managing the house day-to-day. In this episode, she talks about her experience as a woman in a male-dominated industry and Goldcrest Homes' showcase for the Parade of Homes. A Nest With Surprises The Goldcrest Homes' showcase for the Parade of Homes is called "The Lofty Nest." Kristen describes it as a comfortable, fun house, a nest with some surprises.' The two-story house has high ceilings, a loft study area, and an ordinance-compliant accessory dwelling unit in the basement, which allows leasing of the bottom one-bedroom apartment, a highly sought-after feature. Listen in to learn more about Goldcrest Homes, their current and upcoming communities in Utah, and more features of "The Lofty Nest." Following Through as a Contractor in Utah Kristen was always intrigued by the home-building process and inquired about how to enter the industry in college. She was encouraged to become a teacher, which she did until she had an opportunity to finish a house. Kristen found out there was no magic to the process; it took hard work, following through, and planning. Kristen recounts that she never felt intimidated as a woman in general contracting and that the tradespeople she's worked with over the years have been welcoming. She knows a little about many things, having learned from plumbers, electricians, roofers, and more. She's glad to see that women can now go to school for construction management and that more women are finding careers in construction. Utah Building With Women in Mind Goldcrest Homes' goal is to help "build a lovely nest for your flock." The company has a passion for building with women in mind, as statistics show that women drive 80% of home sales. Typically, women are more concerned with family planning, upgrading, and house management. As a company, they pay attention to a home's exterior curb appeal and practical interior use. Building a place that is functional as well as attractive is one of Goldcrest's top qualities.

Sean and Ashley Michaelis are the dynamic husband-wife duo behind Michaelis Homes. Sean is the contractor, and Ashley is the designer and realtor. They have three boys between the ages of 1 and 5 and have been flipping homes since 2017. They’re debuting “The Crestwood” for their first home parade to showcase. The Crestwood House Journey Sean and Ashley learned many things about the Crestwood house’s story and became close with the family who sold it. The house was originally built in the 1970s, and the couple who owned it raised 7 kids. Sean and Ashley’s work was cut out for them: it had 9 different types of carpet, many DIY projects, and a few years of neglect as the owners aged. Sean and Ashley bought the house with the intent to flip and sell but ended up falling in love. They had worked on three other houses on the same street and already loved the neighborhood and the house’s amazing views. Sean and Ashley are excited to finally be experiencing what their clients do. Listeners can see the before and after pictures of the Crestwood House journey on the Michaelis’ website. A Unique Remodeling Style Ashley has a great eye for design and could see incredible potential in this new property. They capitalized on the mid-century style, keeping much of the house’s natural charm while also bringing in an updated, modern feel. Ashley enjoys a style she calls ‘Utah modern,’ tying in geographical locations and color palettes into something that is uniquely Utah. Finding a Home with History Sean and Ashley’s love for their new house comes from its story. The previous owners had been older and unable to take care of the house as they wanted, and Sean and Ashley were eager to buy it. The owners’ kids were very involved in the buying process, and Sean and Ashley soon became close with the entire family. While it was a struggle to get all the materials they wanted, Sean and Ashley staged a viewing for the family around Christmas so that they could see what they had done with the house. They described it as very emotional, as the family was saying goodbye but also seeing the new life breathed into their childhood home. The owners’ kids and grandkids could see Sean and Ashley’s work and know they made the right choice in trusting them to remodel. Listen in to hear more about how the Michaelis couple incorporated the state of Utah into their homes, how they grew their business together, and more about “The Crestwood.”

The Utah Real Estate Podcast is thrilled to present a mini-series about the Salt Lake Parade of Homes. Listeners will be able to peek behind the curtain and hear from the builders how their floorplans came to life. To kick off this mini-series, we have the Director of the Parade of Homes, Lindie Davis, and the Executive Officer of the Salt Lake Home Builders Association, Jaren Davis. They will be sharing with us about last year's parade and what makes 2022 unlike any other in the past, from a custom skatepark house to a downtown penthouse.  Witnessing the Parade’s Growing Success Last year was the Salt Lake Parade of Homes' most successful parade in 75 years, thanks to Lindie. She increased awareness through social media and collaborated with Utah's top influencers. She also single-handedly doubled the parade's numbers by going door-to-door, informing owners of the benefit of having their homes in the parade. She is, in Jaren's words, "a rare talent."  This year, Lindie wanted to see people bring their unique designs to the parade. For Lindie, Jumping into the organization was daunting and tiring, but it has been gratifying and rewarding to see the parade come together in August.  Advocating for the Community The Salt Lake Parade of Homes has a group of volunteers who meet monthly to prepare for the parade. To be featured in the parade, you must be a member of the association. Applications can be submitted at the end of August, which the committee of volunteers will look over and accept.   The Salt Lake Parade of Homes committee prides itself on being craftsmen who care about the community. Their volunteers are "the best of the best" and are serious about being an association that advocates opportunities in housing. Associations like theirs help keep housing prices down and always eye what's best for the community.  Improving Living Conditions Everywhere The Salt Lake Parade of Homes was the first of its kind and is still a great way to promote the industry. The parade is open from Jul 29 to Aug 13, 2022. Houses are available to tour Tues-Sat from 12 pm-9 pm. According to Jaren and Lindie, it's a welcoming environment, as the builders and tradespeople on site are happy to talk about their work. The Salt Lake Parade of Homes owes much to its sponsors, such as Mountain America Credit Union and the Salt Lake Board of Realtors, who help make the parade a reality every year.  Listen in to learn how the Salt Lake Parade of Homes advocates for housing affordability, the housing market and media, and what memberships the association offers. Use code 'utahrealestatepodcast' to get three dollars off your tickets.

Ben Hart is the Deputy Director at the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity. One question Ben is asked the most is, why are we still trying to grow and attract people into the state? The answer is because we want to keep your kids and grandkids here. He explains that with each graduating class, we lose many people to more lucrative out-of-state opportunities, but by aggressively bringing in new businesses and growing pre-existing ones, Utah can maintain economic inertia.

Dejan Eskic is a senior research fellow at the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute. He earned a Bachelor’s in Urban Planning and later a Master’s in Real Estate Development, both from the University of Utah. What is the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute? Dejan describes the institute as a public think tank or holder of information, part of the David Eccles School of Business. Informed decisions are at the core of their mission, researching economy, population, and other trends to help city makers by giving them the information needed to make the right decisions. As part of a public university, the institute is apolitical, and values presenting reliable, unbiased information. The Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute has a tremendous staff, including leaders with decades of experience, economists, and other world-class researchers at the University of Utah. “Our currency is reputation,” Dejan says, talking about the strong relationship that the institute has with both the city and its builders.

Envision Utah was born 25 years ago because of the growth Utah was seeing at the time. The question was asked, where is this taking us? From there began the process to bring people together and talk about the best plan for the state’s future. Ari Bruening is the Chief Operating Officer for the not-for-profit Envision Utah, which engages people to create and sustain communities that are beautiful, prosperous, healthy, and neighborly.

This past year alone, St. George has added a whopping 10,000 new residents. For the size of St. George, that’s a significant growth factor and made it the nation's fastest-growing metro area. With the addition of a new waterpark and other local amenities, St. George focuses on adding attractions for the locals and tourists alike to keep the money inside St. George. Neil Gibbs, with ReMax Real Estate, fell in love with the red rock of southern Utah, like many people who have moved to this area. Utah is known for its outdoor lifestyle, and St. George is definitely a region that is a part of incredible outdoor recreation. A close friend persuaded Neil to use his real estate license in St. George, and less than a week later, he moved to the area and has been there for almost three decades.

All you listeners have heard the Silver Dollar Man complain about how Utah is lacking in water, unlike his beloved East Coast. Linda Townes Cook, Public Information Manager with the Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District, has over thirty years of experience with water. Her job seeks to make the best use of available water through development, conservation, or servicing the Salt Lake County area. Why Water is Important to Utahns Water directly affects the state’s growth. How land is developed in the future will determine how much water there is, and if Utah ran out of water sources, development would stop completely. The Jordan Valley Water Conservancy plans 50 years into the future, as it would take as long to acquire a new water source. The good news is, Utah’s not about to run out of drinking water anytime soon, as 60% of drinking water goes into watering lawns. With such a large portion of water going to a non-essential source, Linda isn't worried about going thirsty, even in the second driest state. However, the battle for water conservation largely depends on landscaping.

What is the Inland Port of Utah? The Inland Port is not a water port but a logistics program used to manage the transportation of goods through the Utah rail system. The Inland Port program allows for the efficient movement of goods in Utah. In addition to the efficiency aspect, this port will become a Green Port, which will reduce carbon emissions. Meet Senator Gregg Buxton Senator Gregg Buxton is the Senate rules chair for District 4. He is also the Utah Inland Port Authority Vice-Chair. With a background in construction, he is leading the project to build the new prison in Utah. Senator Buxton is also on the committee for the Inland Port Authority.

Ashley Atkinson Williamson is the President of the Salt Lake Home Builders Association. The SLHBA develops components to advance efficiency, quality, and cost in the home building industry. In addition, they advocate for land planning and project the long-term effects building has had on our communities for the past 75 years. The Home Builders Association The HBA advocates for housing with three tiers - the local, state, and national levels. Although it’s not required for a home builder to be a member, it’s a good idea to become a member as they advocate for the problems that home builders across the nation face daily.

As we look forward to the future of the beehive state, one of the concerns in Utah with the significant increase in population is transportation. Elizabeth McMillan is the Communications Director at the Utah Department of Transportation, also known as UDOT. She talks about the possible transportation solutions for Utah’s growing population. The Mission of UDOT Elizabeth is excited to work in UDOT at this time. “We can be creative about what we explore, technology, human happiness and how the human experience relates to transportation.” Her job is to find out how they can use transportation to maximize and enhance their quality of life. Utah Traffic Issues There are several traffic issues UDOT is looking to solve for Utah drivers. First, they are trying to improve delays in car traffic on the highways and in the Wasatch front. “We need to optimize what we have as best we can” since UDOT can’t put in any new highways in the state because of the geography constraints. Their goal is to enhance roadways by building overpasses and similar solutions instead of buying a bunch of land in communities to build new roads. “We want that excellent quality of life and paving over neighborhoods and communities isn’t what we want.”

Steve Perry has over two decades of experience in real estate and was elected President to the Salt Lake Board of Realtors in 2020. Steve was instrumental in taking one of the largest brokerages in the state from under 200 agents to over 1,100 agents. He has served his community consistently through the years, volunteering his time for local youth sports and was even the Mayor of Kearns. With so many legalities to buying a home, you'll want a professional by your side to guide you during one of the most significant purchases you'll make in your life. Also, the realtor you choose should have an excellent working knowledge of the area you are buying in, so they can advise you on what and where to buy based on your preferences.

The Utah Real Estate podcast just finished recording the last episode for season three. Season four will start Feb 10th, 2022. Thank you to all our listeners we appreciate you pushing play and learning from all of our guests.

Walter Cronkite said, “In seeking truth you have to get both sides of a story.” So to bring you both sides of the gondola, we will be chatting about some of the concerns in opposition to the Gondola project in Little Cottonwood canyon. Emily Pitsch is part of the Students for the Wasatch Group. She is receiving her Ph.D. in Biochemistry at the University of Utah, and she moved to the Beehive state because of her love of the mountains. Discover her side of this project and why she is opposed to the gondola built in the canyon.

With over 7,000 cars driving through this small canyon, Little Cottonwood receives traffic from outdoor enthusiasts and locals who live and work in and around the canyon. Building and using a gondola in the canyon would not only relieve much of the car traffic but would also provide secondary emergency access to the canyon. Chris McCandless, founder of The Gondola Works, shares that something needs to be done about the increased traffic in the mountains.

The term “Feng Shui” translates to wind and water. Simply put, Feng Shui is the ancient Asian art of decorating your home to make it feel better and give you peace in your space. Typically, clients of Jen Boyd feel that their home and home office have better energy, their space is more organized, and feels more peaceful after arranging their space with her business Elements of Harmony. The term “Feng Shui” translates to wind and water. Simply put, Feng Shui is the ancient Asian art of decorating your home to make it feel better and give you peace in your space. Typically, clients of Jen feel that their home and home office have better energy, their space is more organized, and feels more peaceful after arranging their space with Jen and her business Elements of Harmony.

Reese and Kenzie Dunn just bought their first home. This series was created to create an avenue of input from Utah Homeowners. We wanted to find out what their experience has been in the Utah Real Estate market. How long were they looking for a home? How many offers did they put down to get their new house? Listen in to find inspiration from our listeners and believe that homeownership is possible even in this crazy housing market!

All you sellers out there we have Heather Ray Swanger Director of the Utah Real Estate School educating us on safety while selling your home.

For most home shoppers, any mention of roof damage is enough to send them sprinting in the opposite direction. Buyers who are not in the market for a fixer-upper are typically trying to nab a house in the best possible condition, and roof damage can be seriously costly to repair. But should a faulty roof scare you off, or does it present an opportunity to negotiate the price of the home? Jen Silver is the president of Roofing Utah and is here to share her expertise. Jen tell us. What are some of the most common roofing issues that homeowners ignore and shouldn't?

The Utah Real Estate podcast will be on break for a few weeks to prep for the rest of the year. We will be back on September 23rd with new episodes to help Utahans secure a house for their home.

Our podcast producer Steph Shoell just signed for her first house. Steph started the process in December of 2018 and about a month later she was under contract for a townhouse in Bountiful. The deal fell through after getting the appraisal back and she was heartbroken. Her next housing heartbreak was the condo in Taylorsville. She put an offer above asking price, left crumble cookies on their door. wrote a note about how she pictured myself in the breakfast nook and was crushed when I didn’t get it. Her realtor took her to several houses but emotionally she tapped out. She was done getting her hopes up and picturing how she would decorate only to hear that her offer wasn’t accepted. Fast forward to the beginning of May 2020 and she went on a hike where her friend tells her about new condos and Steph was able to go under contract a few days later. Congrats Steph on securing a house for your home!

We have Missy Hansen with us chatting about the Utah Real Estate market and how quickly homes are selling compared to this time last year. Missy says the hotness of your property depends on where you live in Utah. For example, you can have five to 20 offers on one property in Provo, and Herriman to Salt Lake can see more than 20 offers per home. “I’ve been in the business for 20 years and I’ve never seen anything like this.”

The Salt Lake Parade of Homes™ is the first in the country, dating back to 1946. Even though the housing market has changed since 1946, each year, they give their event a little twist to make the event better! We have Jaren Davis the Executive Officer of the Salt Lake Home Builders Association. Jaren is sharing the rich history and purpose of the Salt Lake Parade of Homes.

You may be surprised to find out that a home inspection is not required in Utah! Although this process is not a must-do for homeowners, Harmony suggests having an inspection. “This is typically the largest investment of your life.” You want to make sure your home is safe for your family and understand what significant repairs, if any, will need to be made in the near future. Issues such as radon, meth, and other requirements that pop up as a surprise during the selling of a home can prolong the selling process.

The Smithe's just sold their home and are moving out of state to be closer to family. This series was created to create an avenue of input from Utah Homeowners. We wanted to find out what their experience has been in the Utah Real Estate market. How long were they looking for a home? How many offers did they put down to get their new house? Listen in to find inspiration from our listeners and believe that homeownership is possible even in this crazy housing market!

Jimmy Rex is a Utah Realtor with EXP Real Estate and he doesn’t believe that we are currently in a real estate bubble. “If you trace back all of the recessions since the Great Depression, the only time house prices fell was in 2007 to 2009.” He notes that the factors which caused the last bubble aren’t the factors that are driving home prices in the current market. Currently, 98% of homes have some equity in their mortgage.

Emily and Sam Erickson had been actively looking for their second home for around six weeks. Finally, they could land the fifth house they put an offer on and purchase the home at their asking price. The house they purchased was their second home, and they are turning their first home into an investment home. They are planning on renting the home long-term. They had difficulty buying their second home, with homes going on and off the market in three days or less. Luckily, their real estate agent and home lender were on the ball and were able to get their offer in quickly, securing their second home.

Sneak Peak | Silver Dollar Showboats Podcast July 8, 2021 Season 3 stepshoellsue12581 Real Estate 00:25:52 Comments Off on Sneak Peak | Silver Dollar Showboats Podcast https://reminisceaudio.blob.core.windows.net/utahrealestatepodcast/Miles_Pitcher.mp3 Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Stitcher | TuneIn | RSS | More Dave Panozzo SCOTTSDALE, AZ Phone-alt Envelope Facebook Linkedin Instagram Subscribe To Our Podcast Whether you are a...

Kaleb and Shay were excited to close and move into their new home recently! Deciding to purchase a new home this past January, they were put off by the prices of new homes and didn’t believe they could obtain a mortgage for the home they wanted to live in. In addition, the process of buying a home seemed overwhelmed and daunting, and they didn’t know where to start! On the suggestion of a realtor friend, they started looking around at homes online to see which homes and areas they would like to buy. They decided to look at the MLS daily and found the perfect home. Although they put in an offer, another buyer paid in cash over the seller’s asking price. Being heartbroken, they wanted to put aside their home buying experience and continue to rent. However, they restarted their buying process again, putting in bids on multiple homes in the area. Not securing a home, they were tired and wanted to stay in their apartment when their landlord decided to raise the rent by 30%. Now paying close to a mortgage payment for their apartment, Kaleb and Shay had a renewed interest in finding their first home. Finding a condo community with an open house, they decided to look at this new home prospect. After touring the condo with the seller’s agent, Kaleb and Shay hit it off with the broker, put in an offer for the condominium, and went under contract!