Salt Lake City Real Estate and Community News

Helping the Family of South Jordan Home Explosion 

From my District Director... So sad. I live not too far from the explosion. She worked with us at Fathom Realty as our Title Representative. Her son that was killed, went to Bingham High School and Elk Ridge Middle School. 

I'm writing this post to share some devastating news about one of our own, Branda Hansen (Verus Title).  Late afternoon on Nov 6th, Branda dropped her son off at home and went to pick up her daughters from an activity.  While she was gone her home literally exploded, taking the life of her 15 year old son.

There truly aren’t words for the sorrow we feel for Branda and her family. While we are doing all we can to support her, we encourage anyone willing and able to contribute to the GoFundMe set up for the family. Along with their heartbreaking loss, they’ve also lost their home and everything in it. Any support would make a profound difference in this difficult time.

In times like these, it’s hard to know how best to help, but coming together as a community can make a world of difference. Branda has always been there for her friends and colleagues; now, she needs US. Any contribution—whether it’s through a donation, kind words, or simply keeping her family in your thoughts and prayers—will mean so much. Let’s surround her with all the support and strength we can during this unimaginable time.

Don Zimmerman, FATHOM Realty, District Director

More about the incident... https://www.abc4.com/news/wasatch-front/authorities-determine-gas-leak-caused-south-jordan-home-to-explode/

How can you help... https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-hansen-family-after-explosion?attribution_id=sl%3Ade632e91-8aae-4b61-a6fe-9a03942b3698&fbclid=IwY2xjawGfhWtleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHWzG3BntrZjW66kSbI6Nx5lOgC_VWjz6PEfc9OtlTHnbQQ9gSrqllGRLDA_aem_JlPadlfrczGpx28DpTMmSA

Nancy Bergman 

Salt Lake Home Pros / Fathom Realty www.saltlakehomepros.com

If you’re searching for homes in Utah, Salt Lake City, Sandy, Salt Lake, Cottonwood Heights, Millcreek, Draper, South Jordan, West Jordan, Herriman, Daybreak, Riverton, Lehi, Saratoga Springs, or anywhere in northern Utah, Salt Lake Home Pros are the real estate agents to call. If you’re buying or selling a home, don’t hesitate to text or call us at 858-617-9449.

Don’t Scare Away Buyers: 12 Staging Tips to Avoid a Frightful First Impression

From Fathom Life Blog https://fathomcareers.com/dont-scare-away-buyers-12-staging-tips-to-avoid-a-frightful-first-impression/

As real estate agents, selling a home during the fall season—especially near Halloween—can be tricky. And while a spooky haunted house may be a hit for trick-or-treaters, it’s not the vibe you want when showing a home to potential buyers. Here’s how to help your sellers stage their homes for sale by removing the things that might send buyers running for the door.

Here are 12 common “scary” elements to eliminate:

1. Unpleasant Odors 

A house that smells like last week’s dinner or musty carpets can be a big turn-off. Encourage sellers to ask for a second opinion—a friend, neighbor, or even you as their agent—to do a sniff test. Professional cleaning and fresh paint may be needed to eliminate lingering smells.

2. Signs of Smoking 

Evidence of smoking inside the home, like ashtrays or nicotine stains, can easily scare away non-smokers. Ensure all smoking paraphernalia is tucked away, and recommend professional cleaning of carpets, drapes, and upholstery to remove lingering smoke odors.

3. Pets and Their Belongings  

As much as we love our pets, potential buyers might not feel the same way. Have your clients remove their pets from the house before showings and hide pet items like bowls, toys, and litter boxes. Deep cleaning to remove pet odors is also essential.

4. Pests  

Nothing sends buyers fleeing faster than spotting a roach or ants. If your seller has a pest issue, advise them to hire an exterminator before the house goes on the market.

5. Clutter  

Clutter is more than unsightly—it gives the impression that the home doesn’t have enough space. Guide your sellers in decluttering and organizing their homes, including removing children’s toys and keeping surfaces clear.

6. Medications 

All medications should be securely locked away for safety and privacy. This protects both the sellers and visitors during showings.

7. Taxidermy  

As much as your seller might treasure their mounted animal collection, it’s wise to advise them to remove these items while the house is on the market. They can be distracting and off-putting to potential buyers.

8. Firearms 

All firearms should be safely locked away and out of sight. If possible, suggest they store them elsewhere during the listing period. Many buyers will find the sight of firearms unsettling, especially those with children.

9. Weird Collectibles  

Quirky or eccentric collections, no matter how cherished by your seller, can divert attention away from the home’s best features. Recommend that they pack up and store unusual items during the selling process.

10. Personal Information and Items  

Advise your sellers to safeguard their personal information, including financial documents, legal papers, and any personal letters. Family ashes, religious items, and political memorabilia should also be hidden to avoid uncomfortable distractions.

11. Uncomfortable Art and Photos  

Family photos and any unconventional or provocative artwork should be removed to create a neutral environment where buyers can envision themselves in the space.

12. The Seller’s Presence 

One of the most important staging tips is to remind your sellers to leave the house during showings! Buyers need space to explore the home freely without the seller’s presence creating awkwardness.

By helping your sellers eliminate these “scary” elements, you’re setting the stage for a more successful and smooth home-selling process.

Happy Halloween! 

Nancy Bergman 

Salt Lake Home Pros / Fathom Realty www.saltlakehomepros.com

If you’re searching for homes in Utah, Salt Lake City, Sandy, Salt Lake, Cottonwood Heights, Millcreek, Draper, South Jordan, West Jordan, Herriman, Daybreak, Riverton, Lehi, Saratoga Springs, or anywhere in northern Utah, Salt Lake Home Pros are the real estate agents to call. If you’re buying or selling a home, don’t hesitate to text or call us at 858-617-9449.

2037 Stone Creek Dr West Valley City, UT 84119

You need to check out this private townhouse with new paint & vinyl light oak floor throughout. Largest plan in the neighborhood, 3 Bed, 1.5 Bath, HEATED & DEEP Garage, & lots of greenery! Located in the far back of the complex, this townhome only has one direct neighbor. Very private. RV parking.

For a private showing, please contact Nancy Bergman - Fathom Realty 

For more pictures https://www.saltlakehomepros.com/property/2030947/

For more Homes for Sale West Valley City, UT - we would love to help. 

#homesinwestvalleycityutah #westvalleycity #84119 #townhousesforsale #saltlakecityutah #saltlakecity #firsttimebuyers #investment #homeforsale #westvalleyhomesforsale #nancybergman #homesinsaltlakecityforsale #

How I sold a Beverly Hills Condo in Utah

I'm thrilled to announce that 9233 Burton Way, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 has officially closed.

Questions about moving or relocating? Let's chat.

Do Solar Panels Increase Property Values?

As the nation experiences higher temperatures, more homeowners are going solar, and more buyers are interested. However, there's still some confusion about how solar installations may affect a home's value.

For example, some believe that appraisers ignore them. However, The Appraisal Institute offers education that focuses on residential solar installation.

Here are some things to keep in mind if one or more of your sellers has gone solar.

• Find out if your seller is financing the solar panels. While some homeowners pay cash or do a cash-out refinance to cover the costs, others may have had them financed.
• If your seller is making payments on their solar panel installation, this may cause problems, as the buyer may not be allowed to take over the payments. Be prepared to discuss this in detail with your seller.
• Ask your seller for copies of past utility bills, so you'll be aware of the value the solar installation will provide to the next homeowner. Ideally, they will have a "before and after" history, so buyers will see how much they can save.
• Check homeowners' insurance options. Not all insurers are as enthusiastic about solar as others.
• While tax incentives may be available for solar panels, these may vary by year. Ideally, your buyer will consult a tax pro or visit IRS.gov for details of each year's incentives.

If you’re searching for homes in Utah, Salt Lake City, Sandy, Salt Lake, Cottonwood Heights, Millcreek, Draper, South Jordan, West Jordan, Herriman, Daybreak, Riverton, Lehi, Saratoga Springs, or anywhere in northern Utah, Salt Lake Home Pros are the real estate agents to call. If you’re buying or selling a home, don’t hesitate to text or call us at 858-617-9449.

Relocating from California to Utah

You are probably wondering why I am posting or promoting a condo in Beverly Hills in Salt Lake City. Simple! I am a duel agent. I am licensed in Utah and in California. From time to time, I still do listings in California. This condo happens to be a family member and I thought it was important to take on the listing myself. So, for those agents and people that think an agent can't list a property across state lines, WATCH ME! I have systems in place to make this transaction smooth just as I was in the neighborhood.  I manage my personal rentals in Palm Springs, Tucson Arizona and here in Salt Lake City for years. So, why not do a listing? 

So, if you are relocating from California to Utah, I decided to keep my California license active. So, if you are thinking of moving out of California, let's chat. I understand the process and what it's like to relocate a few times. I can give you advice what it's like moving California to Utah. 

Now on to my new listing in Beverly Hills California. 

Come live the luxury lifestyle in 90210. Check out this amazing condo in the famous Le Faubourg St. Honore complex in the heart of Beverly Hills. As you enter this 2 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home sets the tone of luxury with dark hardwood floors throughout and open floor plan with a beautiful fireplace that separates the living and dining room. Spacious primary suite with ample closet space and doors leading out to private covered balcony. Luxurious primary bath with large soaking tub and newly remodeled separate shower. Second ensuite bedroom also features a huge bathroom. Laundry in unit. Building provides concierge service, a doorman, an elegant lobby, recently updated common areas, private storage closet, 2 parking spots, fitness center, and rooftop spa with impeccable sunset views. You'll love how close everything is...Rodeo Drive, Cedars - Sinai Medical Center, Beverly Center and the Beverly Hills School District.

http://9233burtonway.homeis4sale.com/

If you’re searching for homes in Utah, Salt Lake City, Sandy, Salt Lake, Cottonwood Heights, Millcreek, Draper, South Jordan, West Jordan, Herriman, Daybreak, Riverton, Lehi, Saratoga Springs, or anywhere in northern Utah, Salt Lake Home Pros are the real estate agents to call. If you’re buying or selling a home, don’t hesitate to text or call us at 858-617-9449.

CA DRE # 01893550 

If you need a referral for the Los Angeles area, I have a partner that can help in Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Baldwin Park, or Hancock Park. 

Herriman High School Mourns Former Band Director

Herriman band students, parents, alum and the marching banc community are mourning the loss of their beloved former band director, Raymond Hernandez, AKA "Nandez".

Last year, after band camp, Raymond announced to the kids that he was diagnosis with stage 4 colon cancer. The kids, parents, and community response was "forte", meaning loud and strong. 

He kept marching on doing whatever he could for his students, but in October things took a turn. His body forced him to stay home, too weak to teach. So, the other teachers did what they could to sub for him. Students and parents supported him during every treatment, during the holidays by playing holiday songs outside his home, etc. 

Unfortunately, last Tuesday, our band family learned that the 26 years old director, lost his battle. He made a HUGE impact to both my kids, other kids, and the entire Herriman High School Community. 

Here's his funeral information.  https://www.larkinmortuary.com/obituary/view/raymond-j-hernandez/?fbclid=IwY2xjawFDL9lleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHaUVmG_P7-h0A7unonG-zVf-TkTOWi3IX5B5OHqa0BPRLtgndyUmBRnZ_A_aem_86QoZndn2D6EBkkpuMLiNA

In memory of every cancer patient, family member, and friend who has lost their battle with cancer and those who continue to conquer it! Be strong!!!

Reasons why sellers should still offer a buyer agent commission when listing their home. 

Due to the recent NAR settlement, how real estate commissions are handled have changed as of August 17, 2024. For decades listing commissions have averaged between 5-6%, split between buyer and seller agents. Now agents cannot advertise an offer of compensation to buyer agents on MLS. This agreement does not bar seller agents from paying a buyer agent a commission or advertising it on other platforms. Here are a few reasons why sellers should still offer a buyer agent commission when listing their home. 

ATTRACT MORE BUYERS

Housing is already expensive. Especially in Salt Lake City and in Utah. Many buyers will not be able to come up with the cash to pay for a buyer’s agent. This will limit the buyer pool of people looking at your home. Particularly if you are in the price range for first-time home buyers. By offering to cover the buyer’s agent commission your property automatically becomes more attractive to more people because it’s one less expense the buyers have to incur. This is even more advantageous in a competitive market like ours.

HIGHER SELLING PRICES

Sellers are likely to have to accept a lower price if the buyer has to pay their agent. If a buyer knows they don’t have to pay for commission they may be more willing to offer a higher purchase price and have more room for negotiation.

Buyers may try to forgo using a buyer agent thinking they will save money which again could lead to low offers and wasted time. A buyer agent can coach their clients to make strong offers resulting in wins for the seller and buyer. The extra money they are trying to save to pay for their agent can go towards a better offer or help during the negotiation process.

FASTER SALE

When you remove the extra financial burden on buyers, sellers often get a quicker sale and reduced days on market. The negotiation process is simplified when you take the confusions of commission costs off the table. The focus can be just on the property’s price.

Incentivizing buyers agents encourages more showings, and offers. It shows a seller is more cooperative and can attract more qualified buyers which can all speed up the process. In a slow market, offering a buyer's commission can help your listing stand out.

SMOOTHER TRANSACTION PROCESS

When a buyer chooses to represent themselves, you are more likely to have transaction issues. The paperwork process, contingencies, inspection reports, appraisals, and title work are complicated. Using an agent makes the process easier. There will be far fewer headaches in the selling process if your agent can work with an experienced buyer's agent to keep everything moving until closing day. Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills are necessary when selling or buying a home. This is the job of the agents so you don’t have to stress over it. Offering compensation to both agents will make this process smoother, and result in fewer, costly failed sales.

Sellers have always been able to negotiate their agent's compensate and have historically chosen to pay these commissions because they recognize it is the best way to get the highest price and best terms for the sale of their home. This has been industry practice so choosing not to offer a buyer agent commission could put your property at a  disadvantage compared to those that do.

If you have been thinking of selling your home, let's chat on how we can get you the best price in the quickest amount of time. 

If you’re searching for homes in Sandy, Salt Lake, Cottonwood Heights, Millcreek, Draper, South Jordan, West Jordan, Herriman, Daybreak, Riverton, Lehi, Saratoga Springs, or anywhere in northern Utah, Salt Lake Home Pros are the real estate agents to call. If you’re buying or selling a home, don’t hesitate to text or call us at 858-617-9449. 

HOW TO CHOOSE A GREAT LOCAL REALTOR IN SALT LAKE CITY

From: Keeping Current Matters 

Selecting the right real estate agent can make a world of difference when buying or selling a home. But how do you find the best one? Here are some tips to help you make that big decision as you determine your partner in the process.

Check Their Reputation

Start by gathering information about agents in your area. From there, try to narrow down the list. Ask the people you trust if they have someone they’d recommend. You’ll want to find an agent with a strong online presence, plenty of positive reviews, and someone whose great reputation truly precedes them. As Freddie Mac explains:

“. . . you may want to look for a real estate agent who specializes in the type of home you’re searching for. For example, if you are looking for an energy-efficient home, look for an agent who has experience with finding and negotiating offers for those homes. If you are looking for new construction, you’ll want to find an agent who has experience with new construction and isn’t affiliated with the builder . . .”

Look for Local Market Expertise

A great agent should have in-depth knowledge of what’s happening at the national and local level. That way they can clear up any misconceptions sparked by what you’re reading or hearing in the news. And they can tell you how your area compares to the national data. As an added perk, they’ll also be familiar with the neighborhoods you’re interested in and community amenities. As a recent article from Business Insider says:

“Spend some time talking with prospective agents about the local real estate market and how it could impact your purchase or sale. You want to get an understanding of how knowledgeable they are about local market conditions. Whether they’re helping you sell or buy, their strategy for you should account for those conditions.”

Get a Feel for Their Communication Style and Availability

Effective communication is key in real estate transactions. Choose an agent who listens to your needs, answers your questions quickly, and keeps you informed throughout the process. If an agent is juggling too many clients, they might not be able to give you the attention you deserve. You want someone who will be readily available and responsive. So, what’s the best way to get a feel for their communication style and preferences? Bankrate offers this advice:

“Interviews also give you a chance to find out the agent’s preferred method of communication and their availability. For example, if you’re most comfortable texting and expect to visit homes after work hours during the week, you’ll want an agent who’s happy to do the same.”

Trust Your Gut

Last, rely on your instincts. If you feel like you do or don’t click with one of the agents you’re talking to, that matters. Choose an agent you feel at ease with and who inspires confidence. The right agent should be someone you trust to guide you through one of the most significant transactions of your life. As Business Insider says:

“As long as you’ve properly vetted the agents you’re considering and ensured they have the necessary expertise, it’s ok to go with your gut . . . Maybe you have a better rapport with one of the agents you’re considering, or you just feel like they’re easier to approach. You’re going to be working closely with this person, so it’s important to choose an agent you’re comfortable with.”

Bottom Line

By following these tips, you can pick an agent who’ll provide the support and expertise you need to help make the process as smooth as possible. Connect with local agents such as us at Salt Lake Home Pros to see if we'd be a good fit for working together. If you want, you can check out all of our reviews on Zillow. https://www.zillow.com/profile/NBergman

If you’re searching for homes in Sandy, Salt Lake, Cottonwood Heights, Millcreek, Draper, South Jordan, West Jordan, Herriman, Daybreak, Riverton, Lehi, Saratoga Springs, or anywhere in northern Utah, Salt Lake Home Pros are the real estate agents to call. If you’re buying or selling a home, don’t hesitate to text or call us at 858-617-9449.