The OwnUtah Journal

Ivins & Southern Utah Real Estate Blog

130 articles by Robert Bolar · Market updates, guides & local news

Explore: Ivins homes for saleKayentaSnow CanyonSanta ClaraSt. GeorgeWashington County

Sections: Ivins Meetings: City Council & Planning Commission videos

Neighborhood park playground below red rock cliffs in Ivins, Utah
November 13, 2026

Ivins Residents Rate Their Parks Highly in AARP Age-Friendly Survey

Source: Ivins City Newsletter, November 2026 (Vol. 26, Issue 11) , “AARP Age-Friendly Survey Results: What You Want to See in Ivins Parks & Outdoor Spaces,” by the Ivins AARP Age-F…

Aerial drone view of a new construction site at a road corner below red cliffs in Ivins, Utah
November 13, 2026

Ivins Joint Council and Planning Commission Work Meeting, Aug. 6, 2026: Attainable Housing Concept

The Ivins City Council and Ivins Planning Commission held a joint work meeting on Thursday, August 6, 2026 . According to the posted minutes, the meeting was called to order at 4:0…

Desert wash with green brush below red sandstone cliffs near Ivins, Utah
November 12, 2026

Local Volunteers Honor Residents of the Southern Utah Veterans Home in Ivins

Source: St. George News, “GE Aerospace employees lend a hand at Ivins retirement home for Veterans Day” by Jessi Bang, Nov. 11, 2026. Read the original article for the full story. …

Kinetic wind sculptures under a cloudy sky in Kayenta, Ivins, Utah
November 12, 2026

Happenings in Kayenta: November 12 to 18, 2026

Here’s my weekly look at what’s happening in Kayenta, the red-rock arts neighborhood on the west side of Ivins, for Thursday, November 12 through Wednesday, November 18, 2026. It’s…

Neighborhood park playground below red rock cliffs in Ivins, Utah
November 12, 2026

Ivins Planning Commission, Aug. 4, 2026: The Retreat Height Request and McKenna Plan

The Ivins City Planning Commission met on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 85 North Main Street. The City of Ivins has posted minutes for this meeti…

Sunset sky over a quiet road in Ivins, Utah
November 11, 2026

Ivins Arts Commission Celebrates the Magic of Live Theatre at Tuacahn

Source: Ivins City Arts Commission, “Living Artfully” blog: “The Magic of Live Theatre in Our Own Backyard” by Josie Brzenk, Oct. 31, 2026. Read the original post for the full piec…

Red rock cliffs near Ivins, Utah
November 11, 2026

This Week at Black Desert Resort: November 11 to 17, 2026

Here is my weekly look at the public calendar at Black Desert Resort in Ivins for Wednesday, November 11 through Tuesday, November 17, 2026. It's a lighter week, with three live mu…

Desert wash with green brush below red sandstone cliffs near Ivins, Utah
November 11, 2026

Ivins Planning Commission, Aug. 18, 2026: Building Height and Construction Standards

The Ivins City Planning Commission met on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 85 North Main Street. The City of Ivins has posted minutes for this meet…

Neighborhood park playground below red rock cliffs in Ivins, Utah
November 10, 2026

Ivins Historical Society Adds Second Saturday Events for 2027

Source: Ivins City Newsletter, November 2026 (Vol. 26, Issue 11) , Ivins Historical Society section. History buffs and curious kids have something new to look forward to. In the ci…

Red sandstone cliff wall and desert brush near Ivins, Utah
November 10, 2026

Ivins History: How Snow Canyon Became a State Park

For most people in Ivins, Snow Canyon is simply the backyard: the red and white sandstone, black lava and sand dunes you see from town. People were using the canyon long before Ivi…

Aerial drone view of a new construction site at a road corner below red cliffs in Ivins, Utah
November 10, 2026

Ivins Joint Council and Planning Commission Meeting, Aug. 20, 2026: Attainable Housing Site Visit

On Thursday, August 20, 2026, the Ivins City Council and the Ivins Planning Commission held a joint work meeting. This summary is based only on the posted minutes and agenda for th…

Rainbow over a neighborhood after a storm in Ivins, Utah
November 9, 2026

Veterans Day in Ivins: Southern Utah Veterans Home Program on Nov. 11

Source: Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs, “Veterans Day Events 2026” (Nov. 2, 2026). Background on the home comes from the department’s Veterans Homes page . Vetera…

Desert wash with green brush below red sandstone cliffs near Ivins, Utah
November 9, 2026

Happenings in Santa Clara, Utah: November 9 to 15, 2026

Here’s my weekly look at what’s happening in Santa Clara, Ivins’ next-door neighbor, for Monday, November 9 through Sunday, November 15, 2026. The big one this week is a Veterans D…

Full moon rising over a red sandstone cliff near Ivins, Utah
November 8, 2026

Ivins Youth Council's Busy Fall: Halloween in the Rain and a Plan for Unity Park Hoops

Source: Ivins Youth Council, “Ivins Youth Council Takes Center Stage!” (posted by the council’s advisors, Oct. 16, 2026), plus the council’s posts “Youth Council at Ivins IQ Event”…

Neighborhood park playground below red rock cliffs in Ivins, Utah
November 8, 2026

Ivins Arts Commission, Nov. 10, 2026 Agenda: RAP Grant, Bus Shelter and Arts District

The Ivins City Arts Commission has posted its agenda for a regular meeting on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 5:00 P.M. in the City Council Chambers, 85 N. Main St., Ivins. The item…

Kinetic wind sculptures under a cloudy sky in Kayenta, Ivins, Utah
November 7, 2026

Almost All to the West: A 1776 Journey Comes to Life at Kayenta in Ivins

Source: Center for the Arts at Kayenta, “Almost All to the West” event page (no publication date listed; accessed Nov. 7, 2026). Season details from the Kayenta Arts 2026–2027 Prog…

Desert wash with green brush below red sandstone cliffs near Ivins, Utah
November 7, 2026

Ivins City Council Oct. 15, 2026: Mojave Village Approved

This is a summary of the Ivins City Council's regular meeting on Thursday, October 15, 2026 , based on the official meeting minutes posted in the city's meeting archive. Approval o…

Black-and-white portrait of Anthony W. Ivins in round glasses, published 1929
November 6, 2026

Anthony W. Ivins: The Man Ivins, Utah Is Named After

Most of us say the name a dozen times a day without thinking about it: Ivins. It is on our mail, our street signs and our kids’ school forms. But the name belongs to a real person,…

Neighborhood park playground below red rock cliffs in Ivins, Utah
November 6, 2026

Free U.S. Navy Band Jazz Concert at Tuacahn in Ivins

Source: Tuacahn Center for the Arts, “U.S. Navy Band Commodores” event page; also listed on KSL Events . Check Tuacahn for the latest ticket status before you go. Ivins gets a free…

Aerial view of a reservoir below red cliffs in Southern Utah (illustrative photo, not the Graveyard Wash site)
November 6, 2026

What the Graveyard Wash Reservoir Could Mean for Water Near Ivins

Sources: KUTV, Nov. 5, 2026 ; Washington County Water Conservancy District current projects ; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers public notice SPK-2004-50485 ; 890 KDXU, Jan. 28, 2026 ; …

Red sandstone cliff wall and desert brush near Ivins, Utah
November 5, 2026

November Nights at Snow Canyon: Stargazing and Ranger Programs in Ivins

Source: St. George News, “November brings stargazing, desert hikes and a giant American flag to Snow Canyon State Park” by Frank Lowery, Nov. 5, 2026. Event times and locations con…

Kinetic wind sculptures under a cloudy sky in Kayenta, Ivins, Utah
November 5, 2026

Happenings in Kayenta: November 5 to 11, 2026

Here’s my weekly roundup of what’s on in Kayenta, the red-rock arts neighborhood on the west edge of Ivins, for Thursday, November 5 through Wednesday, November 11, 2026. After a q…

Sunset sky over a quiet road in Ivins, Utah
November 5, 2026

Ivins City Council Aug. 6, 2026: Retreat Setbacks, Business Licenses and Zoning Updates

This is a summary of the Ivins City Council's regular meeting on Thursday, August 6, 2026 , based on the official meeting minutes . The Council approved these minutes on its consen…

Neighborhood park playground below red rock cliffs in Ivins, Utah
November 4, 2026

Utah Chalk Artists Turn a Canceled Festival into a Joyful Morning at Tuacahn

Source: St. George News, “Utah chalk artists ‘spread the joy’ with exhibition at Tuacahn after hurricane washes out Georgia event” by Stockton Myers, Oct. 31, 2026. Read the origin…

Red rock cliffs near Ivins, Utah
November 4, 2026

This Week at Black Desert Resort: November 4 to 10, 2026

Here is my weekly look at what is on the public calendar at Black Desert Resort in Ivins for Wednesday, November 4 through Tuesday, November 10, 2026. Everything below comes from t…

Desert wash with green brush below red sandstone cliffs near Ivins, Utah
November 4, 2026

Ivins City Council Aug. 20: Sage Villas Phase 2 Approved

The Ivins City Council held a regular meeting on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at 85 N. Main St. The City of Ivins has posted minutes for thi…

Rainbow over a neighborhood after a storm in Ivins, Utah
November 3, 2026

Freshly Resurfaced Tennis and Pickleball Courts Open in Ivins Parks

Source: Ivins City Newsletter, November 2026 (Vol. 26, Issue 11) , Parks & Recreation Department update by Marc Christensen and Sarah Nash. Good news for anyone who loves a racket …

Neighborhood park playground below red rock cliffs in Ivins, Utah
November 3, 2026

Ivins History: How the Santa Clara Bench Became Ivins

This month marks 100 years since a small farming settlement west of Santa Clara dedicated its first chapel, in November 1926. That same occasion is when the town we now call Ivins …

Sunset sky over a quiet road in Ivins, Utah
November 3, 2026

Ivins Planning Commission, Sept. 1, 2026: ADU Ordinance and Land Use Map Discussion

The Ivins City Planning Commission met on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 85 North Main Street. The City of Ivins has posted minutes for this me…

Desert wash with green brush below red sandstone cliffs near Ivins, Utah
November 2, 2026

Christmas in the Canyon Returns to Tuacahn in Ivins, Nov. 27 to Dec. 23

Source: Tuacahn Center for the Arts, “Christmas In The Canyon 2026” (no publication date listed; accessed Nov. 2, 2026). Dates are from Tuacahn’s official event calendar . One of I…

Full moon rising over a red sandstone cliff near Ivins, Utah
November 2, 2026

Happenings in Santa Clara, Utah: November 2 to 8, 2026

Welcome to my first weekly look at what’s happening in Santa Clara, Ivins’ next-door neighbor, for Monday, November 2 through Sunday, November 8, 2026. It’s a fairly quiet week on …

Neighborhood park playground below red rock cliffs in Ivins, Utah
November 2, 2026

Ivins City Council, Sept. 3, 2026: Construction Specifications, Mojave Estates Park and Community Garden

The Ivins City Council met on September 3, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. The minutes for that meeting were approved on the Consent Agenda at the September 17, 2026 City Council meeting, and t…

Sunset sky over a quiet road in Ivins, Utah
October 31, 2026

Follow the Flag Returns to Snow Canyon in Ivins for Veterans Day Week

Source: Utah State Parks, Snow Canyon State Park page (no publication date listed; accessed Oct. 31, 2026). Event details also from Follow the Flag , the volunteer nonprofit that f…

Desert wash with green brush below red sandstone cliffs near Ivins, Utah
October 31, 2026

Ivins City Council, Nov. 5, 2026 Agenda: Audit Report, Building Codes and the 2027 Meeting Schedule

The Ivins City Council has posted its agenda for a regular meeting on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 5:30 P.M. in the City Council Chambers, 85 N. Main St., Ivins. The items below …

Kinetic wind sculptures under a cloudy sky in Kayenta, Ivins, Utah
October 30, 2026

Moving to Southern Utah: Guides for St. George, Ivins & Kayenta

Last updated: October 30, 2026. Figures come from the official sources linked in each section; rules change, so confirm with the agency before you rely on them. Thinking about Ivin…

Clouds drifting over red cliffs near Ivins, Utah
October 30, 2026

St. George, Utah Weather by Month: Highs, Lows & Best Times

← Moving to Southern Utah: all guides Last updated: October 30, 2026. Figures come from the official sources linked in each section; rules change, so confirm with the agency before…

Red sandstone cliff wall and desert brush near Ivins, Utah
October 30, 2026

Snow Canyon State Park & Zion Day Trips from Ivins

← Moving to Southern Utah: all guides Last updated: October 30, 2026. Figures come from the official sources linked in each section; rules change, so confirm with the agency before…

Aerial view of a reservoir below red cliffs in Southern Utah
October 30, 2026

Water in Southern Utah: What Homebuyers Should Know

← Moving to Southern Utah: all guides Last updated: October 30, 2026. Figures come from the official sources linked in each section; rules change, so confirm with the agency before…

Desert wash with green brush below red sandstone cliffs near Ivins, Utah
October 30, 2026

Short-Term Rental Rules in Ivins & St. George, Utah

← Moving to Southern Utah: all guides Last updated: October 30, 2026. Figures come from the official sources linked in each section; rules change, so confirm with the agency before…

Aerial view of a red rock valley near Ivins, Utah
October 30, 2026

Washington County, Utah Property Taxes Explained (2026)

← Moving to Southern Utah: all guides Last updated: October 30, 2026. Figures come from the official sources linked in each section; rules change, so confirm with the agency before…

Aerial view of desert homes in Kayenta below red cliffs in Ivins, Utah
October 30, 2026

55+ & Retirement Living in St. George & Ivins, Utah

← Moving to Southern Utah: all guides Last updated: October 30, 2026. Figures come from the official sources linked in each section; rules change, so confirm with the agency before…

Green field below a red mountain under blue sky near Ivins, Utah
October 30, 2026

Cost of Living in St. George & Ivins, Utah (2026)

← Moving to Southern Utah: all guides Last updated: October 30, 2026. Figures come from the official sources linked in each section; rules change, so confirm with the agency before…

Sunset sky over a quiet road in Ivins, Utah
October 30, 2026

Moving to St. George & Ivins, Utah: The 2026 Relocation Guide

← Moving to Southern Utah: all guides Last updated: October 30, 2026. Figures come from the official sources linked in each section; rules change, so confirm with the agency before…

Red rock cliffs near Ivins, Utah
October 30, 2026

Tuacahn Unveils Its 2027 Season in Ivins: Hercules, The Prince of Egypt and Hairspray

Source: Tuacahn Center for the Arts, “Tuacahn announces a season of biblical proportions” (press release dated Sept. 10, 2026, posted Sept. 18, 2026). Show dates from BroadwayWorld…

Desert wash with green brush below red sandstone cliffs near Ivins, Utah
October 30, 2026

Housing Growth and Development in Washington County

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Red rock landscape near Ivins, Utah
October 30, 2026

Ivins City Council, Sept. 17, 2026: Old Highway 91 Median Curbing and City Manager Contract

The Ivins City Council met on September 17, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. The City of Ivins has posted the approved minutes for that meeting. This post sums up what those minutes record for i…

Desert wash with green brush below red sandstone cliffs near Ivins, Utah
October 29, 2026

Ivins Halloween Bash Brings a Costume Parade and Pumpkin Contest to Heritage Park

Source: Ivins City Parks & Recreation, “Halloween Bash” and “Bingo in the Park” announcements (Oct 2026), and the Ivins City October 2026 Newsletter (Parks & Recreation update by M…

Red rock cliffs near Ivins, Utah
October 29, 2026

Happenings in Kayenta: October 29 to November 4, 2026

Welcome to my weekly look at what’s happening in Kayenta, the red-rock arts community on the west side of Ivins, for Thursday, October 29 through Wednesday, November 4, 2026. It’s …

Desert wash with green brush below red sandstone cliffs near Ivins, Utah
October 29, 2026

Ivins Planning Commission, Oct. 13, 2026: Agenda and Draft Home-Based Business Rules

The Ivins City Planning Commission met on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 85 North Main Street, according to the official meeting agenda . Here i…

Red rock scenery near Ivins, Utah
October 28, 2026

Ivins Kids Are Leading the Revival of Mojave Estates Park

Source: “‘It’s empowering’ Ivins kids work to revitalize park after fire” , ABC4 Utah, Oct 20, 2026. Additional details from Ivins Inspired and the Iv…

Desert wash with green brush below red sandstone cliffs near Ivins, Utah
October 28, 2026

Shadow Canyons

Shadow Canyons is a residential subdivision in Ivins, Utah, in Washington County. Its recorded Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions describes a neighborhood of det…

Red rock cliffs near Ivins, Utah
October 28, 2026

This Week at Black Desert Resort: October 28 to November 3, 2026

Here is my weekly look at what is on the public calendar at Black Desert Resort in Ivins for Wednesday, October 28 through Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Every item below comes from th…

Red rock cliffs near Ivins, Utah
October 28, 2026

Ivins and Santa Clara Joint Council Work Meeting: October 22, 2026 Police and Fire Annual Reports

On Thursday, October 22, 2026, the Ivins City Council held a Joint Work Meeting with the Santa Clara City Council. According to the official agenda, the meeting was held in the Ivi…

Red rock landscape near Ivins, Utah
October 27, 2026

Navajo Children Weaving the Future: A Traveling Art Exhibit at Ivins City Hall

Source: “Navajo Rugs Provide Common Thread in Ivins City Art Exhibit” , Ivins City Arts Commission, by Kathy Smith, Oct 1, 2026. There's a special art exhibit in town t…

Red rock cliffs and Black Desert Resort in Ivins, Utah
October 27, 2026

Ivins City Council: October 1 Actions, October 15 Agenda and November 5 Scheduled Hearings

This is a roundup of recent and scheduled Ivins City Council business, drawn only from official City of Ivins records: the posted October 1, 2026 City Council minutes , the October…

Desert wash with green brush below red sandstone cliffs near Ivins, Utah
July 14, 2026

Ivins luxury buyers gain new power to negotiate price in 2026

Luxury buyers in Ivins can now negotiate on their terms, without giving up their lifestyle goals. Here's how the new balance works....…

12-Month Housing Market Update: Washington County, Utah
July 10, 2026

12-Month Housing Market Update: Washington County, Utah

Washington County, Utah (primarily the St. George metro area, including Ivins, Hurricane, Washington City, and surrounding communities) real estate market over the last 12 months (…

The Proposed Development on the Shivwits Reservation
June 18, 2026

The Proposed Development on the Shivwits Reservation

The Proposed Development on the Shivwits Reservation: Economic Opportunity, Sovereignty, and Local Impacts in Southern Utah Southern Utah's growth continues at a rapid pace, and on…

Best Neighborhoods in St. George Utah: A 2026 Guide to Luxury & Lifestyle
June 8, 2026

Best Neighborhoods in St. George Utah: A 2026 Guide to Luxury & Lifestyle

Best Neighborhoods in St. George Utah: A 2026 Guide to Luxury & Lifestyle Can a community truly balance modern luxury with the raw, untamed spirit of the Mojave Desert? As Southern…

Professional Credentials and Local Expertise
January 14, 2026

Professional Credentials and Local Expertise

Robert Bolar is a highly regarded, top-rated realtor specializing in Ivins, Utah, and the surrounding Southern Utah areas like Kayenta, Entrada, and St. George. With over 20 years …

Affordable Housing Crisis in Southern Utah
January 12, 2026

Affordable Housing Crisis in Southern Utah

The Affordable Housing Crisis in Southern Utah has become one of the most pressing issues facing the region, particularly in booming areas like Washington County (home to St. Georg…

Vote for Robert Bolar for WCBR Director
September 18, 2025

Vote for Robert Bolar for WCBR Director

I'm Robert Bolar, and I'm asking for your vote to serve on the Washington County Board of REALTORS® (WCBR) Board of Directors. With over 21 years of full-time experience as a top 1…

Celeste Maloy Legislative Support: Shivwits Band of Paiutes
July 13, 2025

Celeste Maloy Legislative Support: Shivwits Band of Paiutes

Legislative Support: Shivwits Band of Paiutes Jurisdictional Clarity Act 1. Rep. Celeste Maloy, in collaboration with Senator John Curtis (R-UT), introduced the Shivwits Band of Pa…

The Ripple Effect: How California Wildfires Might Impact Utah's Home Insurance Market
January 28, 2025

The Ripple Effect: How California Wildfires Might Impact Utah's Home Insurance Market

The Ripple Effect: How California Wildfires Might Impact Utah's Home Insurance Market in 2025 As we step into 2025, homeowners and insurers in Utah are on high alert, not just beca…

Why Robert Bolar?
January 28, 2025

Why Robert Bolar?

When you think about a seasoned professional in the real estate realm, Robert Bolar is the name that echoes within the corridors of luxury property dealing. Boasting 24 valuable ye…

Southern Utah Real Estate in 2025
January 28, 2025

Southern Utah Real Estate in 2025

Navigating the Southern Utah Real Estate Market in 2025 Welcome, future homeowners and investors, to a comprehensive guide on the Southern Utah real estate market as we delve into …

Dry Wash Ivins, Utah Update
February 15, 2024

Dry Wash Ivins, Utah Update

Troubled Waters Matt Marten, Kayenta Development Inc. 2-14-2024 A consequential reservoir project is in the planning process but little detail is known For almost three years, the …

The Most Important Questions to Ask a Lender
July 19, 2023

The Most Important Questions to Ask a Lender

In this short video, you will learn the most important question you should ask a lender your about to work with: https://youtube.com/shorts/ysyxu9IGPrA?feature=share What Questions…

Where Does the Money Come From for Mortgage Loans?
July 5, 2022

Where Does the Money Come From for Mortgage Loans?

In the olden days, when someone wanted a home loan they walked downtown to the neighborhood bank or savings & loan. If the bank had extra funds lying around and considered you a go…

Lead Poisoning
June 28, 2022

Lead Poisoning

Lead poisoning is a serious problem that can lead to adverse health problems. In children, high levels of lead can cause damage to the brain and nervous system, behavioral and lear…

Plan of Action for Home Sellers
June 21, 2022

Plan of Action for Home Sellers

Analyze why you are selling - If you understand your motives, you will be able to better negotiate and to get what it is that you want, whether it be a quick sale, high price, or s…

Is Buying a Home Still a Smart Plan
June 14, 2022

Is Buying a Home Still a Smart Plan

With the burst of the housing bubble, credit crisis, and millions of foreclosures across the country, you may wonder if buying a home is such a good idea after all. However, it's i…

The Biweekly Mortgage - Who Needs It?
June 7, 2022

The Biweekly Mortgage - Who Needs It?

Have you received an advertisement offering to save you thousands of dollars on your thirty-year mortgage and cut years off your payments? With email spam becoming more pervasive a…

Title Insurance When Refinancing Your Loan
May 31, 2022

Title Insurance When Refinancing Your Loan

Lower interest rates have motivated you to refinance your home loan. The lower rate may save you a tremendous amount of money over the life of the loan, but you should also expect …

Underground Heating Oil Tanks
May 24, 2022

Underground Heating Oil Tanks

Underground heating oil tanks can pose many potential problems to both home buyers and sellers. They have been the source of many environmental problems such as contamination of su…

For Sale By Owner - A Good Idea?
May 17, 2022

For Sale By Owner - A Good Idea?

FSBO (pronounced fizz-bo), or For Sale By Owner, is a way of selling your home without the use of a professional real estate agent or broker. The idea behind FSBO is that by sellin…

Hot, Normal, and Cold Markets
May 10, 2022

Hot, Normal, and Cold Markets

Hot Market This is an extremely competitive market and is advantageous to the seller. Sometimes, homes will sell as soon as they are listed or even before homes are listed. Typical…

Land Contract
May 3, 2022

Land Contract

An alternative to a non-conforming loan is the use of a land contract, which is allowed in some states. A land contract is an agreement between a buyer and a seller, where the buye…

Title Insurance Requirements for Insuring Trusts
April 26, 2022

Title Insurance Requirements for Insuring Trusts

In today's world of busy probate courts and exorbitant death taxes, the living trust has become a common manner of holding title to real property. The following may help you unders…

Living Trusts
April 19, 2022

Living Trusts

Estate planners often recommend Living Trusts as a viable option when contemplating the manner in which to hold title to real property. When a property is held in a Living Trust, t…

Insist on a Home Inspection
April 12, 2022

Insist on a Home Inspection

A professional home inspection protects both you and the buyer. It allows both you and the buyer the opportunity to learn about the property's defects. A home inspection usually co…

Avoiding Financial Stress
April 5, 2022

Avoiding Financial Stress

By asking the right questions, and knowing exactly what your needs are, you can find the right loan for you. There are certain approaches that you can take while mortgage shopping …

The No-Cost Thirty Year Fixed Rate Mortgage
March 29, 2022

The No-Cost Thirty Year Fixed Rate Mortgage

There really is no such thing as a no-cost mortgage loan. There are always costs, such as appraisal fees, escrow fees, title insurance fees, document fees, processing fees, flood c…

Title Insurance - Where Does Your Dollar Go?
March 22, 2022

Title Insurance - Where Does Your Dollar Go?

Title Insurance: As a homebuyer, the term is probably familiar - but is it understood? What is your dollar actually paying for when you purchase a title policy? Title Insurers, unl…

Environmental Issues
March 15, 2022

Environmental Issues

When purchasing a piece of property, it is important to be aware of any environmental liabilities associated with it. For example, you should find out if there are any registered u…

Finding the Right Agent
March 8, 2022

Finding the Right Agent

Not all agents work the same way. The most important attribute of an agent is that he/she is well connected to the real estate industry. He/she should know the market and provide i…

Finding the Right Seller
March 1, 2022

Finding the Right Seller

The best seller is one who is highly motivated. A highly motivated seller is more likely to sell at a price that is less than his or her house is actually worth. And it matters tha…

Which ARM is the Best Alternative?
February 22, 2022

Which ARM is the Best Alternative?

How would you like a mortgage loan where you did not have to make the whole payment if you did not want to? Or would you like a loan with an interest rate about 1% below a thirty-y…

Understanding Title Insurance
February 15, 2022

Understanding Title Insurance

What is title insurance? Newspapers refer to it in the weekly real estate sections and you hear about it in conversations with real estate brokers. If you've purchased a home you m…

Condominium and PUD Ownership
February 8, 2022

Condominium and PUD Ownership

Builders, in an effort to combat the dual problem of an increasing population and a declining availability of prime land, are increasingly turning to common interest developments (…

Making a Good First Impression
February 1, 2022

Making a Good First Impression

If you want buyers to be interested in your home, you need to show it in its best light. A good first impression can influence a buyer both emotionally and visually, thus prompting…

Use a Buyer's Agent
January 25, 2022

Use a Buyer's Agent

It's important that you choose an experienced agent who is there for you. Your agent should be actively finding you potential homes, keeping you informed of the entire process, neg…

The Advantages of Different Types of Mortgage Lenders
January 18, 2022

The Advantages of Different Types of Mortgage Lenders

What kind of lender is best? If you ask a loan officer, "What kind of lender is best?" the answer will be whatever kind of company he works for and he will give you a list of reaso…

Creative Financing
January 11, 2022

Creative Financing

Creative financing: You've heard of it, and, as a seller, the idea sounds pretty attractive. But, do you know everything you need to know about carrying back a second; essentially,…

Know Why You are Selling
December 28, 2021

Know Why You are Selling

If you know exactly why you are selling then it is easier for you to follow the right plan of action for getting what you want. If you are a seller who needs to close a sale as qui…

Why You Should Not Make Any Major Credit Purchases
December 21, 2021

Why You Should Not Make Any Major Credit Purchases

Don't go on a spending spree using credit if you are thinking about buying a home, or in the process of buying a new home. Your mortgage pre-approval is subject to a final evaluati…

What's a FICO® Score?
December 14, 2021

What's a FICO® Score?

What is a FICO® Score? FICO® stands for Fair Isaac & Company and is the name for the most well known credit scoring system, used by Experian. The credit bureau's computer evaluates…

Statements of Information
December 7, 2021

Statements of Information

What's in a name? When a title company seeks to uncover matters affecting title to real property, the answer is, "Quite a bit." Statements of Information provide title companies wi…

Considering Offers
November 30, 2021

Considering Offers

When reading an offer, keep in mind that you are out to get the best price AND the best terms for you. If you focus solely on the price, you may overlook terms that could be favora…

Build a Plan of Action and Get Ready
November 23, 2021

Build a Plan of Action and Get Ready

Buying a home will probably rank as one of the biggest personal investments one can make. Being organized and in control will contribute significantly to getting the best home deal…

Home Sellers and Their Selling Experience
November 13, 2021

Home Sellers and Their Selling Experience

Home Sellers and Their Selling Experience The typical home seller was 56 years old, with a median household income of $112,300. For all sellers, the most commonly cited reason for …

Home Selling and Real Estate Professionals
November 12, 2021

Home Selling and Real Estate Professionals

Home Selling and Real Estate Professionals • Sixty-eight percent of sellers found their agent through a referral from a friend, neighbor, or relative or used an agent they had work…

Financing the Home Purchase for Utah Real Estate
November 12, 2021

Financing the Home Purchase for Utah Real Estate

Financing the Home Purchase in 2021 Eighty-seven percent of recent buyers financed their home purchase, down from 93 percent in 2003. The typical downpayment for first-time buyers …

2021 Characteristics of Home Buyers
November 11, 2021

2021 Characteristics of Home Buyers

Among all buyers last year, the share of first-time home buyers grew to 34 percent from 31 percent. While first- time buyers have had record low interest rates, they have also face…

Types of Mortgage Lenders
November 9, 2021

Types of Mortgage Lenders

Mortgage Bankers. Mortgage Bankers are lenders that are large enough to originate loans and create pools of loans, which are then sold directly to Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Ginnie M…

Understanding Preliminary Reports
November 2, 2021

Understanding Preliminary Reports

After months of searching, you've finally found it -- your perfect dream home. But is it perfect? Will you be purchasing more than just a beautiful home? Will you also be acquiring…

Setting the Price
October 26, 2021

Setting the Price

The price is the first thing buyers notice about your property. If you set your price too high, then the chance of alienating buyers is higher. You want your house to be taken seri…

Importance of Inspection
October 19, 2021

Importance of Inspection

As a buyer, you are entitled to know exactly what you are getting. Don't take anything for granted, not even what you see or what the seller or listing agent tell you. A profession…

Common Ways of Holding Title
October 12, 2021

Common Ways of Holding Title

How Should I Take Ownership of the Property I am Buying? Real property can be incredibly valuable and the question of how parties can take ownership of their property is important.…

Getting a Legitimate Lender and Getting Pre-Approved
October 12, 2021

Getting a Legitimate Lender and Getting Pre-Approved

It used to be that buyers could go house shopping and when they have found their dream home, then they go to get pre-approved. However, in today's market, that has proven to be one…

Getting the Highest Price in the Shortest Time
October 12, 2021

Getting the Highest Price in the Shortest Time

In order to get the highest price in the shortest time, you need to know how to market your home. The better you market your home, the more offers you will get. And the more offers…

Items You Need When Applying For a Loan
October 12, 2021

Items You Need When Applying For a Loan

Have These Items Ready When You Apply For a Loan It used to be that lenders mailed out verifications to employers, banks, mortgage companies, and so on, in order to verify the data…

Mechanic's Liens
October 12, 2021

Mechanic's Liens

The Mechanics' Lien law provides special protection to contractors, subcontractors, laborers and suppliers who furnish labor or materials to repair, remodel or build your home. If …

Required Reporting to the IRS
October 12, 2021

Required Reporting to the IRS

Sellers of real property will have certain information regarding the sale reported to the Internal Revenue Service. This required reporting is a consequence of the Tax Reform Act o…

The Functions of an Escrow
October 12, 2021

The Functions of an Escrow

Buying or selling a home (or other piece of real property) usually involves the transfer of large sums of money. It is imperative that the transfer of these funds and related docum…

Thinking About Buying a Foreclosure?
October 12, 2021

Thinking About Buying a Foreclosure?

With the housing bubble burst and the subprime mortgage crisis, millions of homeowners found themselves unable to make their mortgage payments. Many found themselves owing more on …

Understanding Foreclosures
October 12, 2021

Understanding Foreclosures

It is an unfortunate commentary, but when economic activity declines and housing activity decreases, more real property enters the foreclosure process. High interest rates and crea…

What is a Short Sale Anyway?
October 12, 2021

What is a Short Sale Anyway?

An increase in foreclosure rates will inevitably bring with it an increase in short sales. But what is a short sale? A short sale happens when you sell your house for less than you…

Why Do You Need Title Insurance?
October 12, 2021

Why Do You Need Title Insurance?

Title Insurance. It's a term we hear and see frequently - we see reference to it in the Sunday real estate section, in advertisements and in conversations with real estate brokers.…

Your Savings and Down Payment
October 12, 2021

Your Savings and Down Payment

Your First Step Toward Buying a Home When preparing to buy a home, the first thing many homebuyers do is look at the real estate ads in newspapers, magazines and listings on the In…

Looking for a great deal on a home? Buy in the winter!
December 9, 2020

Looking for a great deal on a home? Buy in the winter!

Looking for a great deal on a home? Buy in the winter The days of numerous foreclosures and short sales are long gone, but that doesn't mean it's impossible to get a good deal on a…

Tips for Getting Your Home Ready to Sell
December 9, 2020

Tips for Getting Your Home Ready to Sell

With the spring home buying season just around the corner, you may be thinking about putting your home up for sale. Now may be the time to list your home with strong demand from bu…

Tips for Finding a Vacation Home
December 9, 2020

Tips for Finding a Vacation Home

As we move through the winter and Covid, many Utah residents are missing their annual vacation trips to the lake, the mountains, the coast or perhaps tropical locales like Hawaii o…

Equity Real Estate is like no other...
December 9, 2020

Equity Real Estate is like no other...

"When comparing real estate brokerages, it can be easy to assume that all of us are the same. From community involvement and philanthropy, to a brand heritage dating back many year…

OwnUtah.com: Fresh, Accurate and Relevant
June 11, 2014

OwnUtah.com: Fresh, Accurate and Relevant

According to a study done by the WAV Group 'The study found that about 36 percent of the listings shown as active on Zillow and Trulia were no longer for sale in the local MLS' com…

Home Staging
March 27, 2014

Home Staging

Great Staging Video! :-) Home Staging Guide TRY THESE AFFORDABLE IDEAS Carve Out A Truly Great Space Designers are viewing the heart of the home in a more holistic way. Make way fo…

Biggest Home Seller Mistakes
January 23, 2014

Biggest Home Seller Mistakes

A recent survey of real estate agents by ActiveRain has confirmed that there are certain things a seller should avoid if they are trying to get their home sold for the best price i…

Robert Bolar, Full-Service Realtor
January 5, 2011

Robert Bolar, Full-Service Realtor

You are about to embark on one of life's most important and exciting journeys, the selection and purchase of a home. I am committed to making the home buying process efficient, eff…

Real Estate Glossary
January 5, 2011

Real Estate Glossary

Understanding the terms used throughout a real estate transaction can almost seem like learning a whole new language. We've created this handy glossary to help you master the vocab…

Preparing For The Closing Costs
January 5, 2011

Preparing For The Closing Costs

Preparing For The Closing Costs A home purchase is a complex transaction involving many parties and associated fees. In addition to your deposit and down payment, there are a varie…