Dog Friendly Spots in Northern Utah

The Best Places to Take Your Pup

We Utahns love our furry friends. More than half of Utah households include pets according to a study by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). There are an abundance of dog parks, dog friendly hikes and pup welcoming restaurants all over Northern Utah. We have compiled a list of some of those places for you and Fido.

Off-Leash Dog Parks

There’s nothing better than mingling your furry friend with others who love and respect their pets too. Northern Utah has plenty of off-leash dog parks that provide the perfect setting for your pups to play and make new pals!

 South Ogden Dog Park at Club Heights

4150 S Palmer Dr., Ogden, UT 84403

This dog park has 2 acres of fenced off leash space for dogs to play. There is also a playground for kids nearby.

Ogden City Dog Park

2450 A Ave., Ogden, UT 84401

At this dog park you will find a small dog area, a large dog area, and an agility course that contains obstacles that can be used to exercise and train your pups. It is located near the Ogden River Parkway.

North Ogden Dog Park

850 E 2600 N, North Ogden, UT 84414

This park is the perfect place for your dog to meet new friends. Make sure to clean up after your pup.

Roy City Dog Park                                                                                                                    

5700 S 3260 W, Roy, UT 84067

This small, fenced dog park is a favorite of dog owners in the area. Make sure to bring your own water bowl.

Valley View Dog Park

2370 W 200 N, Logan, UT 84123

Residents love this dog park! The park includes picnic tables, benches, agility runs, hills, trees, a tunnel, 1,600 feet of walking trails, running space for your fur babies and two dozen poop stations.

Legacy Dog Park

151 S 1100 W, Farmington, Utah 84025

This fenced in dog park in Farmington is open from dawn until dusk.

Hill Air Force Base Dog Park

75th Air Base Wing, Hill AFB, UT (On the corner of 6th and Liberty, right across the street from the youth center)

This dog park opened in 2007 to those with access to getting on base. If you are lucky enough to be stationed here, or if you work on base, you can enjoy this dog park that offers pups plenty of room to run around.

Rotary Glen Dog Park

71 Emigration Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84108

A creek runs through this huge dog park in Salt Lake city where your furry children can run wild.

Four-Legged Friendly Restaurants

What dog lover doesn’t love sharing a meal with their four-legged friend? There are several restaurants in Northern Utah that allow dogs on their patios. We have compiled a few of our favorites.

Campfire Lounge

837 E 2100 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84106

Campfire lounge is a bar that serves comfort food and brunch in the Sugar House area. The heated outside patio is a great spot to have a drink with friends and your dog. Dogs must be leashed and have current license and rabies tags.

A Good Life Cafe and Juice Bar

274 25th St., Ogden, UT 84401

This Ogden restaurant has outdoor seating that is pet friendly! Grab a smoothie for yourself and remember to bring a water bowl for your dog.

Two Bit Street Cafe

126 25th St., Ogden, UT 84401

Two Bit Street Cafe has been serving up fresh farm to table food in Ogden for years. Their patio is the perfect place to people watch with your pup.

Eats of Eden

2595 N Hwy 162, Eden, UT 84310

Eats of Eden is a casual eatery that offers pizza, sandwiches, salads and burgers. Dogs are welcome on their patio in the summer.

Charlie’s Supreme Ice Cream

1263 N Main St Logan, UT 84341

Charlie’s Supreme Ice Cream is a Logan favorite. Enjoy a delicious frozen treat on the patio with your pup!

Red Rock Grill

13544 Hwy 39, Huntsville, UT 84317

Stop by this charming little grill after a day at Causey Reservoir. Their patio is pet friendly and the food is delicious!

Trails for Pups

Our dogs love to hike in the beautiful Northern Utah mountains, and we bet yours do too! There are endless trails in the Wasatch Front that welcome dogs. It’s important to note that while most trails in the Wasatch Front allow dogs, some areas don’t, for example, Little Cottonwood Canyon doesn’t allow dogs because it is a watershed area.

Waterfall Canyon

29th Street Trailhead, Ogden, UT 84403

This has been one of Ogden’s most popular hikes for years due to the breathtaking 200-foot waterfall at the end of the hike. Prepare to meet other pups on your hike!

Adams Canyon

N Eastside Dr E, Layton, UT 84040

This trail is stunning! If you like the outdoors, you will love this 3.8 mile hike that ends with a 40-foot waterfall. The trail is moderately difficult and begins with several switchbacks before you actually enter the canyon. Make sure to bring plenty of water for you and your fur baby.

Bloods Lake and Lake Lackawaxen

Big Cottonwood Canyon, UT, GPS Coordinates: 40.606819, -111.555237.

The hikes to these lakes on the backside of Big Cottonwood Canyon are beautiful. Dogs are allowed off-leash on these trails. Visit them in the summer when your dogs can swim in the two lakes to beat the heat.

Farmington Creek Trail

Farmington Canyon, UT 84025

This trail offers beautiful views and plenty of shade. Make sure to take water for your pups and check out the waterfall at the top!

Desolation Overlook Trail

Mill Creek Canyon, UT 84109

The Desolation Overlook Trail is a great hike to take your dog on in beautiful Millcreek Canyon. To reach the trail, drive up Millcreek Canyon for about 2.5 miles. Just past the Millcreek Inn, on the right hand side, there is a sign for the Desolation Overlook and a parking lot. Dogs are allowed to be off-leash on odd days, but a leash must be used on even days.

We love our pets and we know you do too. When you are looking to buy or sell a home in Northern Utah, look no further than our team of expert REALTORs. Whether you need a fully fenced yard for your fur babies, or stables for horses, we will help you find a home that fits all your and your four-legged friends needs. Visit www.CoryandRhonda.com to search for all available listings from all real estate agents in Northern Utah or give us a call today at 801.821.9401 or 801.821.9400.  You can also email us at CoryandRhonda@kw.com

Why You Should Move To The Wasatch Front

Moving to the Wasatch Front in Utah can prove to be one of the greatest adventures of your life! This can be especially true for those who are moving to Utah for the first time. Our slogan isn’t “Life Elevated” for no reason. The Wasatch Front is comprised of Salt Lake, Utah, Davis, Weber and Box Elder counties, so there is plenty of space for you to find your dream home.

We know that moving involves a lot of consideration, so we have compiled a list of some of the benefits of living in the Wasatch Front. Make sure to consider these benefits when you are planning your move. Whether you are PCSing to Hill Air Force Base, moving here for the amazing skiing, or just looking for a change of scenery, the Wasatch Front has plenty to offer everyone.

Benefits of Moving to the Wasatch Front in Utah

While you most likely have your own reasons for moving to the Wasatch Front in Utah, here are some possibilities and benefits that you may not have considered:

•Mountains everywhere: When it comes to beautiful things in the Wasatch Front in Utah, the view is going to be right at the top of the list. The mountains in the Wasatch Front are going to take your breath away over and over again. Even locals that were born and raised here claim that they never quite get over the stunning scenery, and miss it when they leave. Many of us even use the mountains to tell which direction we are going! Take a hike up to Ben Lomond Peak and you will understand!

•Four seasons: We love that the Wasatch Front in Utah experiences all four seasons. We have beautiful springs full of blooming flowers, trees and fruit. Our summers are perfect for exploring one of our several national parks, kayaking, hiking or biking. Nothing compares to our fall foliage and crisp autumn air. During the winter months you can ski, snowboard, snowshoe or sled on the greatest snow on earth!

•Utah’s national parks: Utah boasts 5 national parks! Most of them are just a short drive from the major cities in the Wasatch Front. Moving to the Wasatch Front will give you the opportunity to explore Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef and Zion. Each park is unique, so make sure to visit them all!

•It’s a great place to get in shape: Utah, and especially the Wasatch Front, is known for its abundance of outdoor adventures. Get in some exercise while skiing at one of the world class ski resorts, hiking in our beautiful mountains, biking, mountain biking, swimming in one of our several lakes, or rock climbing!

•The food: The Wasatch Front in Utah has some pretty interesting food items. Ever heard of Fry Sauce? Although we didn’t invent it (some think we did), we put it on everything. The peachy hued mixture of ketchup, mayonnaise and other secret ingredients is a Utah staple. We are also known for our green jello with carrots (made famous during the 2002 Olympic Games), and funeral potatoes. If strange food isn’t up your alley, try one of our many award winning local restaurants.

•Education: The Wasatch Front is a fantastic place to pursue any higher education goals you may have. Utah State University, The University of Utah, Weber State University and Brigham Young University are all located in the Wasatch Front. You will also find several reputable montessori schools, private schools and charter schools for children.

When you are ready to plan your move to the Wasatch Front in Utah, give us a call at 801.821.9400 or 801.821.9401. We are local experts! Our team of REALTORs utilizes the latest technologies, market research and business strategies to find you the perfect home. You can visit www.CoryandRhonda.com for more info. Our website contains ALL available listings from ALL Real Estate Agents, so you can do all of your searching in one place. Make sure to check out our other blog posts while you are there! Happy home hunting from the Cory and Rhonda Team at Keller Williams Success Realty in South Ogden!

 

 

The Ultimate Fall Activity Guide for Northern Utah

Ahh Fall is just around the corner! The leaves are starting to change, pumpkin spice is in EVERYTHING, the air is getting crisper and the kids are back in school! We love fall! We love fall so much, we decided to compile the ultimate list of fall activities!

Pumpkin Patches

Who doesn’t love picking their own pumpkin? Whether you are carving them, painting them or eating them, it’s fun to choose your own pumpkins from a local farm. Grab an apple cider or hot cocoa and visit one of these patches this fall!

1. Pack Farms, 1700 W Glovers Ln, Farmington, UT 84025
2. Black Island Farms, 3178 S 3000 W, Syracuse, UT 84075
3. The Corn Maze, 2801 S 3500 W, Ogden, UT 84401

 

Mazes

Corn Mazes can be the perfect fall date activity or family outing. Make sure to decide which maze is right for your needs as some are spooky and some are family friendly. Dress warm and see how fast you can find your way out!

1. The Corn Maze, 2801 S 3500 W, Ogden, UT 84401
2. Black Island Farms, 3178 S 3000 W, Syracuse, UT 84075
3. Little Bear Bottoms, 5000 US-91, Wellsville, UT 84339

Fun Runs and Races

Love running? Like to make yourself work for your wine? Or maybe you just like to dress up as a zombie and stroll around town scaring folks? Check out one of these fun runs or crawls this fall.

1. Frightmares Lagoon Half Marathon/10K/5K, October 15, 2016. Farmington, UT
2. Ultimate Wine Run 5K, October 15, 2016. Salt Lake City, UT
3. Zombie Crawl October, October 22, 2016. Ogden, UT

 

Fall Hiking

There is nothing more beautiful than fall in Utah. Take a hike to view all of the vibrant rusty orange, crimson and gold fall foliage that our mountains, woods and trails have to offer. Remember to be safe and always take a buddy with you.

1. Snowbasin’s The Needles Ridge Trail via the Needles Gondola, Ogden, UT
2. Adams Canyon Waterfall Trail, Layton, UT
3. Donut Falls, Salt Lake City, UT

 

Haunted Houses

 

Some people just love a good scare. Northern Utah boasts over a dozen haunted houses and haunted attractions! Keep in mind that many of these haunted houses aren’t appropriate for little ones. Grab some friends and prepare to scream!

1. Nightmare on 13th, 300 W 1300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84115
2. Frightmares at Lagoon, 375 North Lagoon Drive, Farmington, Utah 84025
3. Haunted Hollow, 1900 W 1550 S, Ogden, UT 84401

 

Halloween Activities

Looking for something fun to do around Halloween? Some of our favorite activities include the Witchstock Festival on Ogden’s Historic 25th Street, costumed trick or treating at Hogle Zoo and watching Odyssey Dance Theatre perform “Thriller.”

1. Witchstock Festival, Ogden, UT
2. Thriller by Odyssey Dance Theatre, Shows in Ogden, Logan and Salt Lake City, UT
3. Boo at the Zoo, Salt Lake City, UT

 

Oktoberfest at Snowbird

The Oktoberfest festival at Snowbird is considered to be one of the 10 best Oktoberfest festivals in the United States by Men’s Journal Magazine. Dress warm and enjoy some cold local brews at this beautiful ski resort in Little Cottonwood Canyon.

 

 

Harvest Moon Festival

The Harvest Moon Festival in Ogden has been a tradition on Historic 25th Street for 15 years! Enjoy local food, live music and entertainment, crafts and activities while saying goodbye to summer.

 

Fall Farmers Markets and U-Pick Farms

What better way to celebrate fall than to bake a fresh apple pie or make a spicy chili? Well you could use locally grown produce in your recipes! visit one of these farms or farmers markets to pick up some delicious fall fruits and vegetables.

1. Borski Farms, 251 W 100 S, Kaysville, UT 84037
2. Black Island Farms, 3178 S 3000 W, Syracuse, UT 84075
3. Downtown Salt Lake City Farmers Market, Historic Pioneer Park 300 S 300 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101

 

We hope you found our ultimate guide to fall activities in Northern Utah helpful! As a team of REALTORs we love getting out and exploring the communities we work in, especially during the fall.

When you are looking to buy or sell a home, we are the first people you should call. You can count on our team to close your transaction as smoothly as possible. We are not in the business of just buying and selling real estate. Instead, we are in the business of understanding what your real estate dreams are and then working to make them happen. If you are buying, we listen to you and care about finding you the right home—your dream home. And if you are selling a home, we work diligently to aggressively market your property and sell it as quickly as possible.

Give us a call today at 801.821.9400 or 801.821.9401, or visit our website http://www.coryandrhonda.com to see how we can help you!

 

10 Things to do Near Hill Air Force Base

Military families are constantly moving. We know from experience! While it can be exciting, it can also be stressful to start over in a new location, especially one you know nothing about. If you just PCS’d to Hill Air Force Base, or if you are scheduled to move here in the future, chances are you probably aren’t very familiar with the area. Lucky for you we have compiled a list of some of our favorite restaurants, shops, activities and attractions close to Hill AFB. It doesn’t matter what you like to do in your spare time, Northern Utah has something to offer everyone!

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Lagoon Amusement Park

375 North Lagoon Drive, Farmington, UT 84025

Lagoon is the perfect spot for family fun. Lagoon features over 50 rides, a water park, games, food vendors and camping. There are rides suitable for every age group. If you like to get spooked out, check out Lagoon during October for Frightmares. Active military personnel and their family members get a huge discount on single day passes, just make sure to print off the coupon from their website.

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Adams Canyon Waterfall Trail 

The trailhead is located just off of HWY 89 in Layton Utah. From Salt Lake City travel on I-15 North to HWY 89. Travel on HWY 89 north to Layton. Turn right on East 1200 North, then immediately turn right on Eastside Road. Near the end of Eastside Road you will see a dirt parking area. This is the trail head parking area.

This trail is stunning! If you like the outdoors, you will love this 3.8 mile hike that ends with a 40-foot waterfall. The trail is moderately difficult and begins with several switchbacks before you actually enter the canyon. Make sure to bring plenty of water. If you bring children make sure to keep an eye on them, as this trail is fairly steep and can be slightly dangerous for little ones. Dogs are welcome on this trail.

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Daily Rise Coffee

1985 W. Antelope Drive, Layton, Utah 84041

We can’t live without our coffee. One of our favorite places to grab a cup of joe is Daily Rise. Locally owned and operated, Daily Rise serves up freshly roasted coffee, specialty drinks and smoothies. We love them because of their two convenient drive thru locations in Layton and Ogden.

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Station Park

140 W Union Ave, Farmington, UT 84025

Station Park has a little bit of everything. There are dozens of specialty and national brands to choose from including Apple, J Crew, Lululemon, Ulta, Zumiez and Pro Image Sports. If shopping gives you an appetite you can dine at one of the 26 restaurants. We suggest ParkStone Wood Kitchen or Twigs Bistro. Need to stop at the grocery store to pick up a few items? No worries, there is a Harmons conveniently located inside Station Park. You can also catch a movie at the Cinemark movie theater.

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Antelope Island State Park

Antelope Island State Park is located approximately 41 miles north of Salt Lake City. Take Exit 332 off Interstate 15, then drive west on Antelope Drive to the park entrance gate.

Antelope Island is perfect for hiking, photography, picnics and exploring. It’s named after the 550-700 Bison that call it home. There are also mule deer, California big horn sheep, coyotes, badgers, bobcats, owls, hawks and falcons that reside in Antelope Island. Besides being a wonderful place to look for wildlife, Antelope Island is the best place to access the Great Salt Lake.

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World Class Skiing and Snowboarding

 

You have probably heard by now that Utah has the greatest snow on earth. Well, the rumors are true. Earn your ski legs at one of the Ogden Valley’s three ski resorts. In 2002 Snowbasin was chosen as the Olympic venue for the men’s and women’s downhill, super G and combined races. Nordic Valley offers the most affordable season pass in Utah. Powder Mountain, or Pow Mow as the locals affectionately call it, offers night skiing at a discounted rate. After hitting the slopes make sure to grab some hot cocoa and warm up at one of the lodges.

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Historic 25th Street in Ogden

From Salt Lake City and points south, take I-15 northbound. Exit 341 and turn right onto UT 79/31st Street. Left on Wall Avenue to Historic 25th Street.

Once known as Notorious Two-Bit Street because of its abundance of brothels, gang violence, boot legged liquor and political drama, Historic 25th street is now bustling with artists, musicians, shoppers, diners, yogis and outdoor enthusiasts. You will find coffee shops, tattoo parlors, local restaurants, art galleries, yoga studios, bars and gift shops on this unique street in the heart of Ogden.

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Roosters Brewing Co. in Layton and Ogden

748 W Heritage Park Blvd., Layton, UT 84041

253 Historic 25^th Street, Ogden, UT 84401

Roosters has been a staple in Northern Utah for over 20 years. The Layton location is conveniently located close to Hill Air Force Base. Roosters’ Brewmaster crafts over 26 beers, including both bottled and draft beers. The menu features a variety of pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, pastas, salads and entrées. Everyone can find something they like here.

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Ellison Park

700 N 2200 W, Layton, UT 84041

Ellison Park has 44 Acres, 1 Picnic Pavilion, 2 BBQ Grills, 1 Baseball Field (AAA), 2 Baseball Fields (Little League), 2 Basketball Courts, 2 Football Fields, 2 Playgrounds, 1 Skate Park, 7 Soccer Fields, 3 Softball Fields, 1 Splash Pad, 2 Tennis Courts, 1 Sand Volleyball Court, 1 Walking Trail (1 mile) and WiFi. We’re pretty sure you and your little ones can stay busy here. The only downside is that the park does not allow dogs.

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Surf ‘N’ Swim 

465 N Wasatch Dr., Layton, UT 84041

Summers in Utah can get hot! What better way to cool down than a wave pool? You can rent a tube for just $3. Aerobics classes and swim lessons are offered and lifeguards are always on duty. In the cooler months Surf ‘N’ Swim is covered by a dome so swimmers can enjoy the pool all year long.

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Whether you would rather be running up a trail, flying down the slopes or sipping on a martini after a long day of shopping, the area surrounding Hill Air Force Base has something to offer you. Visit our blog Top 10 Local Restaurants in Northern Utah to find more dining destinations in Northern Utah. Or check out Local Farmers Markets in Utah to find out more about your new community.

Keep in mind that we are experts not only with military relocation, but also with all your real estate needs. If you are in the market to buy or sell a home visit our website www.CoryandRhonda.com to learn more or give us a call today at 801.821.9400 or 801.821.9401

Top 10 Local Restaurants in Northern Utah

 

 

Our team loves to eat, and we love to eat local. We believe that by supporting local restaurants we are keeping our communities unique, improving the local economy and getting a better product. Luckily, Northern Utah has plenty of local restaurants to choose from. No matter what you are looking for, you will find it here. Whether you have lived in Northern Utah for a decade, or just moved here, you will love this list we have compiled of our top ten favorite restaurants between Bountiful and Logan.

1. Tona Sushi

210 25^th Street, Ogden, UT 84401

www.TonaRestaurant.com

Tona is one of our very favorite restaurants. We love them because they are locally owned and support local farm fresh produce. They have innovative sushi rolls, delicious bento boxes, and tasty cooked dishes. You can choose to sit in one of their semi-private guest rooms, sit at the bar or enjoy the main dining area. We like to order off of the secret menu, make sure to ask about it!

 

2. Roosters Brewing Company

253 Historic 25^th Street, Ogden, UT 84401

748 W Heritage Park Blvd., Layton, UT 84041

www.RoostersBrewingCo.com

Roosters has been a staple in Northern Utah for over 20 years. We like to go to the Ogden location because of its eclectic ambiance, but the Layton location is just as amazing and is close to Hill Air Force Base. Roosters’ Brewmaster crafts over 26 beers, including both bottled and draft beers. The menu features a variety of pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, pastas, salads and entrées. Everyone can find something they like here.

 

3. Le Nonne

129 N 100 E, Logan, UT 84321

www.Lenonne.com

We are in Love with Le Nonne. This Italian restaurant is Nestled in downtown Logan inside an old Victorian home. The service is top notch and the menu is divine. Try to visit on a Wednesday or Friday when you can enjoy live jazz music. Our favorite menu item is the Pollo AI Funghi. It’s a breaded chicken breast smothered in sautéed mushrooms and a sweet marsala wine sauce.

 

4. Slackwater Pub & Pizzeria

1895 Washington Blvd., Ogden, UT 84401

www.SlackWaterPizzeria.com

Slackwater is so much more than your average pizzeria. Their unique menu features such items as mac and cheese pizza, char-tipped smoked pork chili-verde nachos and veggie sandwiches.  We like to dine on their patio which is situated right next to the Ogden River.

 

5. Even Stevens Sandwiches

2214 Washington Blvd., Ogden, UT 84401

131 North Main Street, Logan, UT 84321

www.EvenStevens.com

Even Stevens is a sandwich shop with a cause. For each sandwich purchased, they donate a sandwich to a local non-profit. donate Even Stevens has locations in Ogden, Logan, Salt Lake City, Draper, Boise and St. George. We tend to frequent the Ogden and Logan locations. Make sure to try the delicious Mihami Vice sandwich!

 

6. Crown Burgers

1986 Main Street, Layton, UT 84041

www.Crown-Burgers.com 

Who doesn’t love a good burger and shake? Crown Burgers has been a local favorite for over 30 years. The local fast-food chain has stores in Salt Lake City and Sandy, but as a retired Air Force family, we like to go to the one near Hill Air Force Base in Layton. The pastrami burgers are known to be the best in Northern Utah.

 

7. A Good Life Café & Juice Bar

274 25^th Street, Ogden, UT 84401

www.AGoodLifeCafe.com

We love going to A Good Life Café & Juice Bar to get fresh smoothies with ingredients like aloe, almond milk, fresh fruit and greens before we go on a hike in the beautiful Utah mountains. They always use the healthiest, all-natural ingredients in their juices, smoothies and food. Visit their Facebook page to see daily specials and soups of the day.

 

8. Javier’s Authentic Mexican Food

448 West Antelope Drive, Layton, UT 84041

4874 Harrison Blvd., South Ogden, UT 84403

1050 Shepard Lane, Farmington, UT 84025

www.JaviersMexicanFood.com

Javier’s is a Northern Utah mainstay. The Layton location offers a 20% military discount with I.D. We love them for their delicious and authentic Mexican dishes such as chile rellenos. Javier’s is perfect for the whole family.

 

9. Andy’s Lounge

501 N Washington Blvd., Ogden, Utah 84404

Andy’s Lounge specializes in Greek food, but it’s also a bar. Hang out and play a game of pool or darts while you munch on gyros and souvlaki. If you are in a hurry, or want to pick something up for take-out, Andy’s has a drive-thru window option.

 

10. Jeremiah’s Restaurant

1307 W 1200 S, Ogden, UT 84404

www.JeremiahsUtah.com

Jeremiah’s is always busy on the weekends and you will likely have to wait in line at this spot. Known for its delectable breakfast options, Jeremiah’s also serves fantastic classic American comfort food. Try a scone for breakfast or the country fried chicken for dinner.

We know a lot about local restaurants, but we know even more about local real estate. If you are interested in buying or selling a home in Northern Utah, make sure to give us a call today at 801.821.9401 for Rhonda or 801.821.9400 for cory, or visit our website www.CoryandRhonda.com. We work diligently to make sure the home buying and selling processes are both seamless and fun for our clients, and If you are interested in knowing the value of your home, visit www.coryandrhonda.com/fine/real/estate/marketval.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why Zillow Won’t Give you an Accurate Estimate of your Home’s Value in Utah

Have you ever wondered how much your Utah home is worth? If you have, you probably used the site Zillow to search for the value of your home. The thing is, sites like Zillow are often wrong. They have been known to price homes super high or super low.

 

Zillow uses an automated valuation model (AVM) to create it’s Zestimates. The AVM uses basic property characteristics, publicly available data, price trends and local market information to determine the value of homes. The AVM analyzes past comparable home sales and decides how much it thinks your home is worth.

 

So why are Zillow’s Utah estimates often inaccurate? Utah is a nondisclosure state, which means that only the listing price, not how much the home actually sold for, is available. Zillow doesn’t factor in property condition, capital improvements or other variables that are vital to determining a property’s value either. Zillow hasn’t seen inside the home. The AVM doesn’t know if the kitchen was recently renovated or if a pool was added in the back yard. It also doesn’t know about the mold in the basement or the hole in the roof. Do you see how this could be an issue?

 

Another problem with Zillow’s AVM is that it doesn’t distinguish between types of sales. It doesn’t recognize or account for short sales or foreclosures. These homes often sell for less than they are actually worth. The AVM uses basic property characteristics such as square footage and number of bedrooms and bathrooms to find comparables, these types of sales can cause Zillow to value homes below their actual worth in Utah.

 

Our website, www.coryandrhonda.com can give you a list of comparables and an estimate of your home’s value, the same product that Zillow offers. What sets us apart is that we are experts in pricing homes in Utah. We look at the past, present and future when pricing homes—something a computer simply can’t do.

 

We can provide you with the most accurate estimate possible of your Utah home’s value. We are humans that do this for a living, not an AVM that often uses inaccurate information to compile more inaccurate information. It’s simple, fast and easy.  All you have to do is fill out the form on our website. We suggest that you snap a few pictures of your home and either email or text them to us. We will work with you to determine the value of your home. We will even come visit your home!

 

We are experts when it comes to buying and selling homes in Utah. Our team will walk you through the entire process. Whether you are buying or selling, you can count on our team to close your transaction as smoothly as possible. We are not in the business of just buying and selling real estate. Instead, we are in the business of understanding what your real estate dreams are and then working to make them happen. If you are buying, we listen to you and care about finding you the right home, your dream home. If you are selling a home, we work diligently to aggressively market your property and sell it as quickly as possible.

If you are interested in buying or selling a home, contact us today at (801)821-9401

Visit http://www.coryandrhonda.com/fine/real/estate/marketeval for more information or to find out how much your home is worth.

 

 

 

How Pokémon Go can Help you with Your Utah Home Search

Pokémon Go is the latest craze and it doesn’t look like it’s going to lose steam anytime soon. Pokémon Go brings the world of the late ‘90s Japanese anime cartoon to life and allows users of the app to walk around and catch Pokémon all over their neighborhoods and cities. It’s not just nostalgic millennials playing the popular game on their smart phones, everyone from Gen X to Gen Z is trying to become the greatest Pokémon trainer of them all.

 

Pokémon Go is a trend that has infiltrated our daily lives. Many businesses use Lure Modules, a feature that coaxes Pokémon to particular locations for a short time, to entice players to patronize them. PokéStops, specific locations where players can gather items like Poké Balls and potions to help them excel in the game, are popping up everywhere from churches to local parks and monuments. The game is even being used to sell Real Estate. Realtors are posting listing ads that include such details as “2 Pokémon Go Gyms and 5 PokéStops within walking distance.”

 

So, how can Pokémon Go help you with your Utah home search? This is where the fun begins. One of the most important factors to consider before purchasing a home is whether or not the neighborhood will suit your needs. If you have kids, you probably want more information about the school district. If you are religious, you might be curious about local churches. Consider yourself adventurous? You might want to know what trails, lakes, or other outdoor adventures are awaiting you in your selected area. History buff or art enthusiast? Well then you are probably interested in local museums, theaters and galleries. If you are a foodie or coffee addict, you might be looking for local restaurants and cafés.

 

Start by downloading the app to your Android or iOS device, then get outside! You won’t find rare Pokémon by sitting on your couch. Start your search once you have decided what neighborhood, or neighborhoods, you are looking to buy a home in. Your next step is to have fun! Find a place to park then walk around the area and familiarize yourself with your surroundings. Remember to always stay alert and put your phone down while crossing streets. Some of the best places to find PokéStops and Pokémon are local parks, churches, businesses, monuments and even schools.

 

While Pokémon Go is a trendy and fun way to explore new neighborhoods during your home search, the best way to find the home of your dreams is to hire a Realtor. Our team is here to help when you need us. We take great pride in offering superior service to our clients.  If you’re in the market to buy or sell a home in Northern Utah, please give us a call at 801-821-9401.  We would be happy to discuss your needs and provide advice at no obligation to you. You can also visit our website www.coryandrhonda.com to search all homes for sale, regardless of who the listing agent may be. Hunting rare Pokémon is fun and your home search should be fun too! Remember not to play Pokémon Go while driving and remember to keep us in mind for all your real estate needs.

 

 

5 Tips for First-Time Home Buyers

So, you think you might be ready to purchase your first home. If you are a first-time buyer, the home buying process might be confusing and you may be nervous about paying a mortgage.  But guess what? If you are paying rent, you actually ARE paying a mortgage—just not your own!  Before you jump into the deep end of adulting by purchasing a home, let us help you!

Consider these 5 tips for first-time home buyers.

1. Make Sure Your Credit is in Shape and get Pre-approved

This should be your first step.  Before you even think about starting to look at homes, get in touch with an experienced mortgage lender.  The lender will look at your income and pull your credit to help you identify any discrepancies and let you know the amount you qualify for.  If you have any credit issues, your mortgage lender will give you advice to raise your credit score so you can qualify for the best interest rates.  The lender can also help you research any grants you may be eligible for.  Preparation is key and our team will make sure you’re ready.

2. Understand the Purchase Process

We’ll sit down with you and run through each step of the process.  Don’t be afraid to ask us questions—we’re happy to answer them!   We’ll walk you through the offer process, explain negotiations, inspection, appraisal, and coordinate closing for you. We’ll explain each step along the way so you’ll never feel lost.

3. Prioritize Your Needs and Wants with the 80/20 Rule

We can provide you with a checklist before we even start house hunting. Include your must-haves, nice-to-haves and deal breakers. Take your checklist with you to each home you visit. Remember, it’s highly unlikely you will get everything you want out of your first home and most people don’t.  We tell our buyers about the 80/20 rule.  If a home has 80% of your must-haves, you should strongly consider writing an offer.

4. Research the Neighborhood

You’ve heard it before. Real estate is about Location, Location, Location!  It’s smart to buy a home in an up-and-coming neighborhood. It’s also smart to buy a home that fits your needs. Is it close to your work, schools and other places you might frequent? Make sure the neighborhood you buy in will fit your lifestyle now, and in the coming years.

5. Find a Great Realtor

Okay. We lied to you earlier about the first step, our apologies. While getting your credit in shape is important, your actual first step should be to talk to us!  We are here to provide you with guidance and assist you in finding your dream home. We will do everything to make your home buying process as smooth and fun as possible.  Hey, it’s not every day you purchase a home, right?

For more information visit our website at www.coryandrhonda.com or contact us by phone: (801)821-9401 or email: coryandrhonda@kw.com

 

Stunning Ogden Valley HUD Home 2792 N 4975 E, Eden UT 84310

***UPDATE***THIS HOUSE WENT UNDER CONTRACT

Wow, if you are looking in the Ogden Valley, you must see this home. Room for everyone! This 6 bedroom rambler (plus an office) is just what you’ve been looking for! Separate office, formal dining, 50% unfinished walkout basement and views! Located on just over an acre in Eden. To view this home, or any other home, visit http://www.coryandrhonda.com or give us a call today at 801-821-9401. This is a HUD home, Case#521-861207. HUD homes are sold as is without any guarantee or warranty by the seller. Property is Insured with escrow (may qualify for FHA 203K financing subject to buyer’s appraisal). Electronic bids only. Open to all bidders, bids open daily until sold. This is equal opportunity housing. Visit http://www.hudhomestore.com or http://www.sageacq.com for more info.

Charming 2-Bedroom Condo 5674 ASPEN CT Unit F22, South Ogden UT 84403

This 2 bedroom South Ogden condo is a must see! Relax on your private shaded deck in the summer, and curl up in front of the cozy fireplace in the winter. Conveniently located close to shopping, restaurants, public transportation and Weber State University, this condo is a steal. If you are interested in seeing this, or any other home in person, visit our website at http://www.coryandrhonda.com or give us a call at 801-821-9401. Case #521-759591. This is a HUD-owned home. HUD homes are sold as is without any guarantee or warranty by the seller. FHA financing: Insured. Electronic bids only. As of 7/28/16, bidding is open to owner occupants, non-profits and government agencies. Must see! This is equal opportunity housing. Visit http://www.hudhomestore.com or http://www.sageacq.com for more info.