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Value For Your Money: Vacation Home or Income-Producing Investment?
Whether you’re a skier who loves the mountain slopes of Utah, a lover of the beaches of Southern California, or a potential retiree seeking to escape the snow-laden Northeast for the wide-open, sunny lands of Arizona, there are homes available to meet a wide range of budgets. The biggest decision a potential second homeowner must make is whether they are going to solely own their vacation home or turn it into a vacation rental. Here are the advantages and disadvantages to both options:
Investing in vacation rentals
- Pros:
- A good vacation rental property generally provides a healthy rental revenue which could potentially cover mortgage payments while also generating healthy additional profit.
- Using an online short-term rental service like Airbnb makes it convenient to manage your rental property. Their website interface makes pricing, marketing, and communication with potential guests quite straightforward and easy. Airbnb will also oversee the billing process for you.
- You may qualify for federal tax breaks and deductions related to your investment property. Everything from professional fees or commissions – including property management services- to cleaning and maintenance are potential tax write-offs.
- Cons:
- Vacation rentals can be costly to manage, both in terms of time and money. These properties may require seasonal upkeep and special maintenance considerations. You may even incur costs to maintain or monitor the property even when it’s not actively being utilized.
- Vacation rental properties are particularly sensitive to seasonal fluctuations and economic downturns, which could leave you financially exposed if you suffer a lack of booking revenue.
- Many states and cities are cracking down on short-term rental services. In California, for example, the fight has been primarily local, reaching a fever pitch in the San Francisco Bay Area. Increasingly state and local municipalities are seeking to reign in short-term vacation rentals, which could put a damper on potential revenue from these properties.
- You may experience higher renovation and repair costs on a short-term rental. Most travelers expect the latest appliances and furnishings, so you will have to update every few years. Unfortunately, short-term renters are less likely to report any necessary repairs and guests are far less likely to treat the property with respect since there’s no sense of ownership or obligation.
Owning a vacation home
- Pros:
- Long-term profits: While assets fluctuate in value in the short term, vacation properties are more likely to retain their value and appreciate because they are located in popular areas with a geographically limited supply.
- Familiarity: Returning to the same place time and after time can be comforting as you become familiar and comfortable with the location. It allows you the freedom to be yourself and the opportunity to expand long-term friendships with residents.
- Convenience: The ability to conveniently store items that are used exclusively at the second home simplifies travel and packing.
- Retirement head starts: Though we may love where we work and live, every place has its drawbacks. A common goal of retirement is to have a place to retreat for the times of the year we dislike the most at our main residence. Locating and buying a second home prior to retirement enables you to experience the benefits of a refuge before actual retirement, a time to correct and amend your plans if the reality is different than the dream.
- Cons:
- Initial purchase costs: Most people have higher expectations for a property that they intend to own, rather than to rent. These expectations can translate into high prices.
- Home maintenance: As the homeowner, you are responsible for all home maintenance work.
- Travel time: A second home will be located hours from your primary residence, requiring either long auto trips or airline flights.
- Inflexibility: If you are paying a significant amount of money each month for a second home, you may feel that you need to constantly visit the property to justify your investment.
Whatever you chose to go with, you can be sure that your favorite Windermere agent is there to help you every step of the way.
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At Windermere Utah, we are proud to keep you up-to-date on the latest news, events, and listings. Be sure to keep checking back in here at the blog, and don’t forget to follow us on social media.
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Originally posted in Buying by Meaghan McGlynn.
Black History Month in Salt Lake City
As we should all be aware, February marks an exceptionally important time of remembrance: Black History Month. While Utah might not seem like it has a wealth of ties to famous African American inventors, leaders and historical figures, there is more than one way to celebrate in Salt Lake City. Here are some of our favorites:
Evening in Harlem
Taking place on February 7th at 6PM, Evening in Harlem is a recognition of the Harlem Renaissance. ABC4 describes:
“The Harlem Renaissance was an intellectual, social, and artistic explosion for African-Americans centered in Harlem, New York, spanning the 1920s.
Wallace Henry Thurman was an American novelist active during the Harlem Renaissance, and was born in Salt Lake City in 1902 and moved to Harlem in 1925.
This year’s Evening in Harlem is the first fundraising event for the Utah African-American Chamber of Commerce Foundation and will introduce the Utah Black Success Center: a platform to develop more Black community, business, corporate and government leaders to further elevate Utah’s growing diversity.”
This event will be held at the Utah Cultural Celebration Center in West Valley City. You can find more information about this event here.
Black History Month Concert Series
Hosted by the Utah African American Chamber of Commerce, the Black History Month Concert Series is free and open to the public. It features local artists and is a celebration of excellence in the community.
The mission statement is one of power and inspiration: “Excellence in the Community creates more and better performance opportunities for Utah’s finest musicians. Communities are enhanced as people come together to recognize and experience the accomplishments of deserving artists. Our programs foster social, economic and community development. Music to match the mountains.”
You can learn more about this concert series and the artists on the event page.
Black History Month at the University of Utah
From artwork for children, to film screenings and poetry slams, there is something for everyone on the University of Utah calendar of events for Black History Month.
Whether or not you’re able to make it out to any of these events, we hope you’re able to have a meaningful Black History Month! We further hope that you can take the time to reach out to new cultures, and appreciate some of the great figures in our African American communities throughout history.
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At Windermere Utah, we are proud to keep you up-to-date on the latest news, events, and listings. Be sure to keep checking back in here at the blog, and don’t forget to follow us on social media.
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Incorporating Pantone’s “Classic Blue” in Your Home
Here are some ways to add this stunning shade of blue to your home:
Furniture
Image Source: Stacy Zarin Goldberg
Add a splash of color to any room with Classic Blue furniture, such as these dining room chairs, which express a sense of tradition and elegance, as well as unexpected boldness.
Tile Work
Image Source: Stacy Zarin Goldberg
Geometric patterns are all the rage this year, so why not liven up your kitchen backsplash with tiles that incorporate the color of the year? Here’s an example that achieves this through bold, colorful design that doubles as a piece of art.
Cabinets
Image Source: Davonport Kitchen Designers and Remodelers.
If geometric tile isn’t your thing, the are other ways to bring your kitchen to life with this stunning shade of blue. If you’re not in a position to purchase all new cabinets, simply paint your current cabinets for a more affordable update.
Walls
Image Source:Stacy Zarin Goldberg
Whether it’s built-ins, panels, or an accent wall, Classic Blue can make your furniture and décor pop. Consider this color when you paint your living room or bedroom as a way to encourage calm and confidence in your favorite spaces.
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At Windermere Utah, we are proud to keep you up-to-date on the latest news, events, and listings. Be sure to keep checking back in here at the blog, and don’t forget to follow us on social media.
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Originally posted in Living and Architecture by Meaghan McGlynn
An Exclusive Peek Inside 7518 Sage Meadow Drive
As we frequently mention, Windermere Utah is really, really good at selling luxury real estate. So, when an opportunity comes along for an open house in one of these bad boys, we want to make sure you know about it in time to get a first-hand look at life in the lap of luxury. Potential buyers and seekers of aesthetic perfection, it is our utmost joy to present to you today…
7518 Sage Meadow Dr
When you’re buying a home listed for 2.8 million dollars, you expect everything to be pristine and have undeniable functionality. This 5 bedroom, 6 bathroom beauty will not disappoint in any respect.
This fresh, modern, new construction is located in Promontory Sunset Ridge. The main level includes an expansive kitchen and great room, complete with a fireplace. All of that beautiful space opens to a gorgeous outdoor entertaining patio with a large gas outdoor firepit and unobstructed views of Deer Valley and Vail’s Park City Ski Runs.
From the main level you can descend to the lower level family room which includes everything from a wet bar, to a separate media room, to a bunk room suite and tons of extra storage. It is all prewired for and ready for the smart home provider of your choice.
The two master suites on the main level along with a third bedroom suite are absolutely divine. Park right inside into the impressive three car garage and enter into the main level to a beautiful dropping off point with lockers for all your outdoor gear.
With the unique beautiful outdoor metal retailing walls, real stone and cedar siding, you can enjoy life to the fullest no matter the time of year, in a home that truly stands out. Warm drinks by the fire in the winter? Perfectly chilled cocktails overlooking the spring wildlife in the warmer weather? It’s up to you, and it all sounds amazing.
Think of how many sunsets you and your loved ones would be able to enjoy from this perfectly elegant living area. Boundless views, a gorgeous fire, and style in spades!
All bathroom flooring and the lower level has in floor radiant heating. The main and upper levels have forced air and central A/C. The ensuites this home offers will make each and every guest feel like they’re the kings and queens in their own private oasis.
This bathroom needs no description. The style and radiance speaks for itself.
So who is selling this gorgeous home?
Patty Horie — Windermere Real Estate UtahAgent
This incredibly talented realtor is who you’ll want to talk to in order to get more information about this home. Her bio states:
I have been a Realtor in Park City, Summit County and surrounding areas since 2005 and have lived in the area since 2000. Being a director on the board of the Wasatch Back MLS keeps me on the pulse of new technology and at the forefront of the industry. Since 2013, I have served as the Chairman of the Park City Board of Realtors Professional Development Committee. Being a recipient of the Park City Professional Achievement Award every year since 2007 and along with being awarded the 2017 Park City Meritorious Service Award is a testimony of my hard work and dedication to my clients and the business of Real Estate. I understand a home purchase or sale is a significant event in my clients’ lives and that it is my duty to work hard and smart to make it as stress free and smooth as possible.
Looking for more pictures and information? We’ve got you covered; take a look here.
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At Windermere Utah, we are proud to keep you up-to-date on the latest news, events, and listings. Be sure to keep checking back in here at the blog, and don’t forget to follow us on social media.
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The Gardner Report – 2019 Fourth Quarter
The following analysis of select counties of the Utah real estate market is provided by Windermere Real Estate Chief Economist Matthew Gardner. We hope that this information may assist you with making better-informed real estate decisions. For further information about the housing market in your area, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
ECONOMIC OVERVIEW
Utah’s non-agricultural employment growth continues to impress. The addition of 49,500 jobs over the past 12 months represents a solid growth rate of 2.8%. We did see some fairly modest slowing in employment gains earlier in the year, but this appears to have been reversed. My current forecast is for the state to continue to grow its job base, though I anticipate modest slowing in the number of new jobs. With around 41,700 new positions added, we will see employment grow 2.6% in 2020. In November, the state unemployment rate was 2.4%, down from 3.2% a year ago.
HOME SALES
- 8,768 homes sold in the final quarter of 2019, representing a solid increase of 7% compared to the same period in 2018, but 17% fewer homes traded hands compared to the third quarter of 2019.
- Total sales activity rose in all but the very small Morgan County. Year-over-year, sales rose by double digits in three counties, with impressive increases in Wasatch, Summit, and Utah counties.
- The number of homes for sale in the final quarter of the year was 14.4% lower than in the same period a year ago and 21.3% lower than the third quarter of 2019. Regular readers may remember that listing activity had been rising, but I am afraid those days are behind us.
- Pending sales in the fourth quarter were up 10.7% compared to a year ago but were 24.3% lower than in the third quarter, suggesting that closings in the first quarter of 2020 may drop from current levels.
HOME PRICES
- The average home price in the region continued to rise in the fourth quarter, with a year-over-year increase of 9.5% to an average of $403,186. Home prices were 0.4% higher than in the third quarter of 2019.
- All counties contained in this report saw price increases compared to the same period a year ago, with impressive gains across the board.
- Appreciation was strongest in Wasatch County, where prices were up 11.7% to $681,300.
- Home prices continue to appreciate at significant rates. I hope to see some slowing in price growth as we move through 2020, but this will only happen if the supply of homes for sale grows significantly.
DAYS ON MARKET
- The average number of days it took to sell a home in the counties covered by this report rose four days compared to a year ago.
- Matching the third quarter, homes sold fastest in Davis, Salt Lake, and Weber counties, and slowest in the expensive Summit County. All counties except Summit saw days-on-market rise compared to the fourth quarter of 2018.
- During the fourth quarter of the year, it took an average of 57 days to sell a home in the region, up from 45 days in third quarter.
- The modest increase in market time is not a concern as there still appears to be significant demand for housing.
CONCLUSIONS
This speedometer reflects the state of the region’s real estate market using housing inventory, price gains, home sales, interest rates, and larger economic factors.
For the final quarter of 2019, I have moved the needle just a little more in favor of sellers. Inventory levels remain low, even in the face of modestly increasing market time. Prices and closed sales are higher, and these things certainly favor sellers.
ABOUT MATTHEW GARDNER
As Chief Economist for Windermere Real Estate, Matthew Gardner is responsible for analyzing and interpreting economic data and its impact on the real estate market on both a local and national level. Matthew has over 30 years of professional experience both in the U.S. and U.K.
In addition to his day-to-day responsibilities, Matthew sits on the Washington State Governors Council of Economic Advisors; chairs the Board of Trustees at the Washington Center for Real Estate Research at the University of Washington; and is an Advisory Board Member at the Runstad Center for Real Estate Studies at the University of Washington where he also lectures in real estate economics.
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At Windermere Utah, we are proud to keep you up-to-date on the latest news, events, and listings. Be sure to keep checking back in here at the blog, and don’t forget to follow us on social media.
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Premier Properties That Will Leave You Speechless
Luxury homes are special for so many reasons. Apart from being super beautiful, and representing a lifestyle that so many of us yearn for, selling them is one of Windermere Utah’s specialties. With our ties to Luxury Portfolio International, and Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, each of our luxury properties has the exposure guaranteed, and the marketing process perfected.
Because it’s Friday, and we’re heading into a blustery, overcast weekend, we thought it’d be fun to introduce you to some of our favorite Premier properties.
491 Echo Spur, Park City UT
4 Bedrooms // 6 Bathrooms // 4,692 Square Ft
$4,900,000
Architecturally, this home is an absolute jaw-dropper. Designed by the Jaffa Group, and constructed by Gardner & Boswell Construction, this is a home that has quality stitched into every square inch. Completely automated by Nest & Creston, and secured by Lifestyle Electronics you are surrounded by exemplary comfort and security.
An open concept flows seamlessly from the kitchen, to the dining area and on into the main floor living space. Wood flooring, pristine surfaces, large windows and warm tones infuse an organic feeling into this free-breathing space.
Other things to love about this property include the 70″ TV with surround sound, white oak flooring, all of the furnishings (with just a couple of exclusions) from Design King, a custom wine rack, a full fitness studio complete with ceiling fans and fully-wired surround sound, and pet friendly accommodations like a raised dog wash on the top floor, as well as a pet door and a Pet Zone “grass” pad which is heated, plumbed and drained.
Read more about this property here, and here.
4544 S Abinadi Road, Millcreek UT
3 Bedrooms // 4 Bathrooms // 8,108 Square Ft
$6,900,000
Stepping through these mesmerizing mirrored doors, you enter into a crystalline paradise; a Lloyd Platt designed and Gary Thorne constructed home with all the luxurious touches that one could desire, coupled with unreal views of both Mount Olympus and the Salt Lake Valley to the Great Salt Lake. Truly a marvel of construction, the floor to ceiling windows allow for unobstructed views.
This property boasts three sumptuous bedrooms – all with spacious, adjoining, full bathrooms. While the living and dining room areas can definitely handle a crowd, these bedrooms are an oasis of peace and tranquility. Expansive views, walk-out access to the outdoors and copious storage space make each bedroom private and comfortable for family and guests.
We invite you to learn more about this incredible property by viewing further details here. You can also feel free to reach out to this home’s listing agent, Tyler Parrish. You can learn more about him and find his contact information by following this link.
9895 N Summit View Drive, Park City UT
7 Bedrooms // 9 Bathrooms // 10,250 Square Ft
$8,250,000
Exclusively located in the gated community of Deer Crest at Deer Valley Resort, this ski in/ski out home has features that even the most selective buyer will love. Six inviting and warm bedrooms house family and guests in comfort and style, while sweeping panoramic views of the Jordanelle Reservoir and Deer Valley impress from dawn until dusk. Conveniently located just minutes from historic Park City Main Street, as well as the elegant St. Regis hotel, and only 45 minutes from Salt Lake International airport, everything you need and everywhere you want to go is right at hand. This home features a welcoming great room with a soaring fireplace to keep your winter months merry and bright, a gourmet kitchen with an additional fireplace and a charming breakfast nook. The main level master bedroom includes an expansive en-suite and breathtaking, sprawling views. Five additional en-suites, and a lower level family room give you all the extra room you could want.
You can learn more about this property by clicking here.
3485 E Eastoaks Drive
4 Bedrooms // 4 Bathrooms // 3,605 Square Ft
$1,225,000
(List price is $25,000 Under recent 3rd party appraisal!) – Don’t miss your chance for this amazing opportunity! Originally built in 1962 by renowned Architect Ron Molen… and wow, did he have some great style. Sadly, this home was tired after all these years and needed some love.. That is, until D3CADE Homes and Halpin Investments got their hands on it! Where do we even start with this place? Curb appeal – Well, someone pitched the roof and we just couldn’t let that happen to the architecture here so we tore off a perfectly good roof and restored it back to the original flat elevation. Every square inch of this property has been meticulously revitalized to ensure the character and original vibe was not compromised. It actually has gone as far as re-desiging back to that 60’s feel.
Once inside, it’s apparent the attention to detail on the design and revival that took place. Book-matched walnut cabinetry, tile imported from Japan, a cooktop system known as the PITT built directly into the counters (who even thinks this stuff up), tile and fixture selections that make you wonder where you have been the last 5 years when it comes to good design and a speak-easy inspired hidden wet bar that makes it’s way into a covered patio, pre-wired for a surround sound and outdoor TV space for your enjoying pleasure. The master closet features a built-in makeup vanity along with an island which will make it easy to finish customizing your built-in layout here. The list goes on and on, to the point where this listing service won’t allow me to add much more. I think it is best you come visit the property yourself to get the full feel.
You can learn more about this property by clicking here.
We know these properties are absolute jaw-droppers, and we hope you click that share button!
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At Windermere Utah, we are proud to keep you up-to-date on the latest news, events, and listings. Be sure to keep checking back in here at the blog, and don’t forget to follow us on social media.
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How to Know if it’s Time to Downsize
Choosing less space often has to do with a desire to live a life that’s simpler. Whether you’re retiring, want an eco-friendly, low-maintenance lifestyle or your children have moved away, downsizing might be the best option for you. Here are the advantages and disadvantages to consider before making the move and questions to begin asking yourself now.
Advantages
- Increased cash flow.
- Spend less on your mortgage payment and you are likely to have more money leftover for other needs or desires.
- More time.
- Cut down on time spent on household chores such as cleaning and vacuuming which will leave you with more hours in the day to do something more enjoyable.
- Lower utility bills.
- Costs less to heat and air condition a small home.
- Less square footage decreases the amount of energy expended.
- Reducing energy is better for the environment and it helps keep your home green.
- Reduced consumption.
- You would likely buy less since you won’t necessarily have the room for it.
- Minimized stress.
- Homeowners who have successfully downsized often feel happier because they are no longer overwhelmed by the demands of a larger home.
- Less responsibility, less housework to do, increased cash flow and flexibility equals reduced stress.
Image Source: Shutterstock
Disadvantages
- Fewer belongings.
- Moving into a smaller space would mean you would need to give away or donate furniture, books, kitchen supplies, etc.
- No room for guests.
- Hosting holiday dinners might be out of the question for a smaller home.
- Space restrictions.
- Less space means you could feel cramped.
- Lifestyle changes.
- For long-term homeowners, downsizing means changing a lifestyle.
What to consider before downsizing
These questions are important to ask yourself because for some people, downsizing may not be the best option for them.
- Does size matter to me?
- Think about how much your identity is wrapped in your house.
- Is it important for you to have a guest room or a second bathroom?
- Will I miss some important things about a more spacious home?
- Will moving into a smaller home feel like a step backward?
- How will other life events affect my living in a smaller home?
- Consider possible scenarios you may not expect such as adult children moving back home or if you plan to add a child.
The Cost to You
- How much will it cost to replace the furniture?
- When you move into a smaller home this means you might have to downsize your furniture to make room.
- How much will it cost to get rid of the stuff I don’t need or won’t fit?
- It’s important to have a plan for how you’re going to sell or give away the things you don’t need.
- Consider things like family heirlooms. What are you going to do with all your antiques or treasures that your smaller home may not be able to accommodate?
- How much will I get when I sell my current home, and will it help cover the cost of buying my new home?
If you know downsizing is the right option for you, you’re probably asking yourself, “Should I sell first and then buy or buy first and then sell?”. When you’re ready to discuss your options, talk to an experienced Real Estate Agent.
Originally posted on the Windermere Blog, in Buying and Selling by Meaghan McGlynn
Cocktails, Delicious Bites, and Atmosphere, These Park City Hangouts Have It All
It’s no secret that Park City’s dining and entertainment scenes are, in a word, superb. Whether you’re on the hunt for a sumptuous après-ski, or need a restaurant that can handle a big family in order to celebrate a special occasion, there are tons of great places for you to choose from.
But what about those nights when you’re not really in the mood for a big meal, and just want to enjoy some drinks among friends? Here are our favorite Park City hangouts are.
BONEYARD & WINE DIVE
Sliders, photo courtesy of Boneyard and Wine Dive
In an open poll of Windermere agents, Boneyard was the highest ranking vote. Advertising their wood fired grill, fine comfort foods, 10 jumbo screen TVs, summer rooftop dining and over 100 draft & bottled beers, Boneyard makes for the perfect place to kick back and relax after a long day.
Definitely check out their website to put your eyes on some of their other delicious offerings.
HIGH WEST DISTILLERY
High West Distillery
High West Distillery has an extremely rich history dating back to 1870. “High West began with humble roots, opening a small, 250-gallon still and Saloon in an historic livery stable and garage. What was once a small operation in downtown Park City has grown to be an internationally-recognized brand with four unique locations. In 2015, High West opened their distillery in Wanship, Utah, which acts as a space for educational whiskey tasting, pairings and tours, and houses a 1600-gallon copper pot still,” reads their website.
High West is a great place to meet early and grab a specialty cocktail or ski down mid-day for lunch and warming up. It has a great “Western” vibe and the food and service are excellent. From the drinks to the burgers, High West is the cream of the crop!
With multiple ways to enjoy their offerings, be sure to click here to learn more about where you can get your own High West experience.
THE SPUR BAR & GRILL
Photo courtesy of The Spur
The Spur is another crowd favorite, with a great music scene and comfortable vibe. Not as rustic, but still definitely still a part of Park City’s fabric, if you’re looking for some great live music and incredible food, this is definitely where you’ll want to find yourself on a Friday night.
If you’re up for being immediately hungry, take a look at their online menu. You can find it here. They also have a full list of cocktails, so you can plan your next night out before you arrive.
NO NAME SALOON & GRILL
Photo courtesy of No Name Saloon & Grill
With a completely original flair and originally called “THE ALAMO,” No Name has 17 flat screen TVs and can handle a crowd. Whether it’s game day, Saturday or you’re just looking for a place to relax after a long day, No Name is the OG Park City bar scene for you.
You really can’t get more old school Park City than the No Name. It’s got the best vibe in town. It is set in an old historic building, the décor is a little wild west meets flea market. It’s a great place to belly up, people watch, or catch the game.
FLETCHER’S
Last, but certainly not least on our list, is Fletchers, specifically downstairs.
Fletchers downstairs is a great spot for an after dinner drink when you want a quiet atmosphere to catch up with old friends. The lounge area offers warm and cozy seating, the food is excellent, and the service is always over the top. It’s very different from the other places listed, but another great location to grab a cocktail on a cold winter night.
Not only is the scene at Fletcher’s polished and relaxing, you’ll also love the story of how it all began. Taken from their about page, here’s the inspirational story of Fletcher’s beginning:
Once upon a time, there was a dog. Fletcher wasn’t always his name. He was abused and abandoned; shot with a gun, for shame. His lucky day came at last when he was rescued from a shelter by a girl named Sue. Sadness slipped away, and a good life began. Fletcher’s heart is so big. He wants everyone to be as happy as he is.
Sue (same one!) and Steve Demarest share a love of healthy living, mixed cocktails, entrepreneurism, kindness, house music, reclaimed woods, mountain towns, the beauty of great restaurants, the comforts of home… and Fletcher! They were inspired by Fletcher’s example to create a restaurant and lounge dedicated to making people happy. It’s that simple.
And then food entered the story. Fresh food. Local. Natural. Highest quality. Produce from nearby farms practicing sustainable agriculture. Yes, farms! Healthy food. Grass-fed meats. Organic chicken. Expertly-handcrafted cocktails too! And a chef renowned for simple recipes masterfully prepared. Welcome Chef Scott Boberek back to Main Street, joining Fletcher’s as partner.
So, in conclusion, whether you’re looking for a refined experience, a place to catch the game with the boys, or just want a good cocktail and some fantastic food, Park City’s night life options have got you covered.
Sundancing Like the Locals
If you’ve been keeping up with the Park City events calendar, you know that one of the biggest and brightest events of the year is just around the corner: the Sundance Film Festival. Starting January 23rd and running until February 2nd, Sundance is a celebration of cinematography, and also happens to be the largest independent film festival in the United States.
Sundance describes itself in this way:
“Our 10-day Festival welcomes more than 124,000 attendees and spreads out across three locations: Park City, Salt Lake City, and the Sundance Mountain Resort near Provo.”
Whether you’re a veteran attendee, or you’re looking forward to your first time at a Sundance screening, we’ve put together this helpful guide to make sure you can make it to the films you want to see in the most convenient, comfortable way.
Tickets
One of the most important things to remember is that each city in the Sundance event schedule is separated by a 30- to 75-minute drive, so you will want to make sure you select screening tickets in the city where you plan on spending most of your time.
Tickets went on sale for Sundance members yesterday, and will be on sale tomorrow, January 16th, for locals. Tickets will be available until they’re completely sold out. The non-local public can purchase tickets starting January 21st, so if you’re planning on attending from out of state, you’ll want to make sure to be online right at 10am (MST) to ensure you can grab your seats.
The Park City theaters that will be hosting premiers and showings are as follows:
Eccles Theatre
Egyptian Theatre
Prospector Square Theatre
The MARC Theatre
The Ray Theatre
Making Your Experience Amazing:
Pro-tip #1: Don’t drive. While Park City is charming, beautiful, elegant, and a natural wonderland, it’s not known exactly for its parking availability. (Ironic for a place called “Park” City, right?) In reality, parking during Sundance is a nightmare. We suggest you come via carpool, Uber or take advantage of the free PC Public transportation.
Pro-tip #2: Dress for the occasion. Park City is a very walkable town, and since we’ve already discussed the need for ride sharing, you’ll need to bring proper footwear (i.e. insulated and waterproof snow boots). Sorels are the preferred brand of Park City, and they even have a whole line dedicated to the city! That’s just one option, if you’re in need of something with great traction but that is still very cute.
Pro-tip #3: Have a plan. If you already have tickets, YAY YOU!! We talked about ticket sales above, but you’ll want to keep in mind the distances between cities if you’re looking to catch a certain film in a certain place. And, if you’re trying to up your chances of catching sight of one of your Hollywood favorites, we loved this article that tells you exactly who is in which film.
For any of your other event related questions, be sure to check out the Sundance website, and be sure to check out the festival map that includes more details on each venue, theatre, and even shuttle routes.
We hope you have a fantastic time at Sundance! If you’ve got any down time between events, Sundance is a phenomenal time for skiing! No one is on the slopes. Let me know if you head to Deer Valley Resort! My office is located in Silver Lake!
Will There Be A Recession in 2020? Here’s Matthew Gardner’s Outlook
Windermere Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner, answers the most pressing question on everyone’s minds: Will there be a recession in 2020? Here’s what he expects to see.
At Windermere Utah, we are proud to keep you up-to-date on the latest news, events, and listings. Be sure to keep checking back in here at the blog, and don’t forget to follow us on social media.
