Park City Properties and Lifestyle News Blogs

Buying a second home can be a major purchase, whether you are trying to maximize your favorite vacation spot, or making your first foray into a real estate investment.

The costs of purchasing and maintaining a second home quickly add up and vary greatly depending on how the property is used. If you choose to use a mortgage, those options will also be determined by how you intend to use your second home. For example, shared usage via companies like Pacaso, is becoming more popular. Unlike fractional ownership, where your weeks of usage are assigned and can change from year to year, the shared ownership option allows you to pick your days/weeks and book via an app. Typically there are 8 shares in today's Pacaso's model, but the number of owners can be lower. If you’re looking for a Park City home for sale, and inventory or pricing isn’t what you were expecting, consider a shared home. It’s a great way to establish a foothold, get to know the community, and decide where you want your very own home. Some great choices are homes in Jeremy Ranch, Promontory homes for sale, and Silver Springs Homes. A favorite among many is Deer Valley ski-in/ski-out condos and townhomes.    

As someone who owns a vacation home in Park City, here are my top reasons that may help you decide as you move forward.

Why Park City?

Being home to one of the world's largest ski resorts, it provides a highly sought-after property that welcomes any outdoor adventurer. You’ll find a variety of lovely Park City condos and townhomes for sale, matching your desired mountain lifestyle for a ski-in ski-out property, with luxury amenities, dining, private golf courses, and ski slopes. Residences provide breathtaking views, a nature-filled superb location, and the key to a mountain lover's fantasy. Value appreciation has been strong,  providing a great return on investment.

Park City Home is a Passive Income Home

Park City is always attracting tourists no matter what the season. You can take advantage of this by making your home a rental investment, whether you wish to offer it nightly or seasonally. This is a terrific way to build equity while renters pay your mortgage, taxes, HOA dues, and upkeep expenditures.

Easy Access to Salt Lake City and the newest International Airport

Park City vacation homes and investment properties offer an easy trip for you or for your renters. You’ll have no problem getting there considering it's so close to the Salt Lake City International Airport. An easy commute up Hwy. 80 and you’re at your front door in approx.. 35 mins. The highway is 3 lanes minimum, in each direction, and is maintained by snowplows as a priority. 

With comfortable access to Salt Lake City, you can easily enjoy a wider selection of entertainment, shopping, dining, and services without compromising the privacy you have when you return to your Park City property.

Tax Advantages

Mortgage interest can be deducted, up to $750,000 under current tax rules. You can also deduct up to $10,000 in property taxes. Before making any decisions, consult with your accountant, or another tax specialist, to ensure that you understand precisely how much a second property would save you on your tax return.

Work with a Trusted Realtor to Find Your Ideal Second Home

Finally, the exciting part! Whether you're searching for a vacation home or investment property, you'll want to deal with a local real estate agent.

If you're searching from out of the area, and won't be able to view the property in person initially, a professional agent can act as your eyes, ears, and nose on the ground. Many Park City properties have been put under contract via Facetime tours. Buyers can then fly in and perform their Due Diligence according to contract terms. Old Town homes for sale are really popular and this may be the only way to get one before it gets scooped up by someone else. Another highly competitive situation is ski condos with great ski access. These come up less often, command a higher purchase price, and sell quickly so consider letting your agent know what you are looking for and they can potentially find one for you that is not yet on the market. You’ll have the advantage of being the first one to know about it.

Feel free to give Park City Home Sales a call to discuss your needs and how we can help at 435 640-0217 or you may also search for Park City Homes, Condos, Townhomes, and Land for sale here. 

There are about 13,000 school districts in the USA, and Park City is among the most interesting ones. Whatever form of education you wish to obtain, you will find an appropriate institution in this small mountain town, and this article will guide you on your quest.

Why study in Park City's public school district? 

People love Park City because no matter where you live, there is always a mountain nearby where you can enjoy beautiful and relaxing views. Park City is very close to Salt Lake City, but without the hustle and bustle, so it creates a safe and calm environment for students. 

Park City's schools are also widely recognized as being among the best in the state, and funding for its many innovative programs is one of the reasons. Property taxes from second homes, taxed at 100 percent of value versus 55 percent for primary residents, fill the PCSD coffers at a rate unmatched in any of Utah's other Districts. Park City School District's per-pupil spending of $15,320 exceeds the national average of $12,201, while the state average of $9,251 falls far short.

What are the best Public Schools in Park City?

It's no secret that Park City is home to some of the nation's finest public school districts. But which top the list?

1. Jeremy Ranch School - serves more than 500 students in grades Kindergarten - 5. It placed Top 5% of all schools in Utah for overall test scores (math proficiency is top 5%, and reading proficiency is top 10%).

2. McPolin School -  a highly rated public school that serves more than 400 students in grades Prekindergarten - 5. McPolin School placed in the top 20% of all schools in Utah for an overall test score. Math proficiency is at the top 20%, while reading proficiency is top 20%. 

3. Parley's Park - Parley's Park School is located at Silver Springs, one of Park City's charming residential communities. It has a student population of more than 500 and serves grades K-5. At Parleys Park School, 59 percent of students achieved or exceeded the proficient level in math, and 60 percent achieved or exceeded the proficient level in reading. The student-teacher ratio is 18:1, the same as the district average. 

4. Trailside School - It is a traditional neighborhood school that is committed to providing an exceptional education. Trailside School serves more than 499 students in grades Kindergarten-5. The percentage of students achieving proficiency in math is 49% which is higher than the Utah state average of 45%. The percentage of students achieving proficiency in reading/language arts is 50%, higher than the Utah state average of 47%. 

5. Ecker Hill Middle School - serves more than 700 students in grades 6-7. It placed in the top 50% of all schools in Utah for overall test scores.

Here’s a Public School Review of the Top 10 Best Park City Public Schools in 2021-2022 with more information that can help in decision making.

Since we know how vital the school district is as a determining factor in your home buying purchase, our team is here to guide you on the entire process. Also, it is important to keep in mind that home values are affected by proximity and school district. A townhouse for sale in Park City, within the Park City School District, is desirable because it appeals to a larger buyer pool when it’s time to sell, the same is true for Park City Condos. Learn more about Park City Homes for Sale and Lifestyle here or contact us at 435 640-0217.

The slopes may be Park City's calling card, but you don't have to put on skis or a snowboard to have a good time here.

If you think Park City is not for you because you're not a Skier or Snowboarder, there are still many choices to enjoy the snow. Our small mountain town also has plenty of ways for foodies, art connoisseurs, and anyone looking for relaxation during the winter. 

Horse Play 

Traditional horseback riding and sleigh rides are available in the area, but there are far more ways to enjoy horses than simply saddling up. Park City Horse provides a variety of one-of-a-kind experiences, such as horse meditation circles and reiki, as well as family adventures and corporate team building. 

Dog Sledding 

Dog sledding provides unique views and access to more remote areas with stunning views, peace, and quiet in the areas surrounding Park City, making it an ideal way to rest your legs. Dog sledding is a great activity for families to enjoy together, as well as a romantic activity for two!

Get a Buzz in Utah 

Utah has historically had one of the unique drinking scenes in the country. There is a wide array of local bars, breweries, and distilleries that call this state home. So, while you're visiting, be sure to check out the Park City bar scene to see what it's all about.

Indulge in Art Exhibits

Park City's famous Kimball Art Center hosts dozens of classes almost in every artistic discipline year-round. Highlights include family-friendly holiday-themed classes like Gingerbread House Sculpture, Egg Dying, and Valentine's Day Bowls, as well as adult-only Sip & Paint sessions at Old Town Wine Cellars where you can sip wine while creating. There are plenty of options whether you're looking for a one-time session or multi-week course.

Shop in Historic Main Street

A top place for shopping in Park City is the historic Main Street. Here you can find high-end shops, galleries, and super posh restaurants where the entire family can truly enjoy. 

Visit Live Jams

If music is more your thing, you won't have to look far because après concerts at Park City Mountain and Deer Valley are free and open to everyone, even if you don't ski. You can also check out popular Main Street live music venues like Park City Live and O.P. Rockwell or see what's on the Park City Institute's line-up.

Park City may be known for its slopes, but there are endless activities it can offer. Both its exciting and slow lifestyle is the key reason why many people eventually move to this small mountain town the first time they visit. Learn more about Park City Properties and Lifestyle here or give us a call at 435 640-0217. 

When most people think of Red Ledges, they envision majestic mountain ranges and vibrant red sandstones. Inspiration, relaxation, and community await you in this breathtaking landscape, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and red rock formations. So if you're considering buying a property in Red Ledges, here are some of the things you need to know first:

Mountain Lifestyle within Gated Community

Red Ledges is located in Heber City, a resort community nestled in Utah's stunning Wasatch Mountains, only 20 miles from Park City Mountain Resort. The Heber Valley embraces a mountain lifestyle with its delightful shops, restaurants, and endless recreational activities. It also has an excellent healthcare system, a good employment base, top-notch schools, and a low crime rate. 

Tight-Knit Community 

Residents of the Red Ledges come together to enjoy a robust schedule of fitness and recreational activities within and beyond the community. Some of these are yoga, fitness classes, weekly bike rides, cross-country skiing, snowshoe hikes, snowmobiling, horseback riding, cooking classes, and a lot more. Off-site activities include skiing at Deer Valley Resort in the winter and hiking on nearby trails in the summer. The possibilities for adventure are endless when you invest in premier Rocky Mountain real estate at Red Ledges!

Premier Four-Season Location

The mountain scenery is breathtaking in all four seasons of the year, and the outdoor activities are equally thrilling. Winter sports in the area include world-class skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-based fun activities. Summers are also ideal for hiking, biking, fishing, and golf.

Award-Winning Red Ledges

This place is obviously spectacular, but don't take our word for it. Heber Valley has received several prestigious awards, including:

• Best Value in Second Homes, Wall St. Journal’s Real Estate Journal
• Best Places to Own a Vacation Home in the U.S., com
• 25 Happiest Small Towns in America, House Beautiful
• Ten Best Small Towns in the U.S., Liveability.com
• Top 20 Places to Live in the West, American Cowboy Magazine
• Great Homes and Destinations – Mountain States, New York Times

Life here is exactly what the residents hoped for: a "better life" and a life full of outdoor adventure at any time of year. To know more about Park City Properties and Lifestyle, check the available homes for sale here or contact us at 435 640-0217.

If you're aiming for a better quality of life without compromising all the amenities a big city has to offer, then Park City is the right place for you. 

In this city, families will discover an abundance of kid-friendly activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, horseback riding, hiking, fly fishing, and a lot more. It also offers top-notch universities, ample job opportunities, and a booming business sector that attract thousands of students and young professionals each year. With so many positives, it’s time to consider moving to this famous small town in America. So if you're currently thinking to make the next big move, we recommend exploring these top four neighborhoods for you to call home: 

Sun Peak / Bear Hollow

Sun Peak or Bear Hollow is a rich mix of upscale homes, townhomes, and condominiums. It is located minutes away from schools, churches, Redstone Plaza, Utah Olympic Park, and Canyons Ski Resort. The area also provides its residents with close-up views of Canyons and Park City Mountain Resort.

This neighborhood supports an active lifestyle rich with fun and convenience, located only minutes from some of Park City's most popular hiking trails and Willow Creek Park with all of its facilities. It's also only a two-minute drive to Canyons, which is ranked No. 10 on Ski Magazine's list of greatest ski resorts. 

Silver Springs

This desirable neighborhood is divided into three different communities that include beautiful single-family homes and condominiums that are close to Parley's Park Elementary, the Episcopal Church, Har Shalom Jewish Temple, and Willow Creek Park.

Ranch Place is near to the Swaner Nature Preserve, a large open space dedicated to wildlife protection. This neighborhood's homes are a mix of mountain rustic and mountain contemporary. North Shore/South Shore is a charming neighborhood that borders Park City's two lakes, allowing people to sail one day and ski the next. Snyders Mill is a well-kept community that is a great area to enjoy retirement or own an investment home.

Jeremy Ranch 

If you prefer a community with a beautiful close-knit vibe, Jeremy Ranch is the ideal option. You can find custom homes and well-appointed townhomes in this neighborhood which are right on The Jeremy Golf & Country Club.

The Arnold Palmer championship course is also one of the most affordable options in town. And, thanks to its excellent southern exposure, you'll be able to play golf for six months out of the year, which is more than any other Park City course. The membership also provides access to the clubhouse and restaurant that rivals the best in town.

Trailside Park

Trailside is a wonderful neighborhood in Park City, Utah, and is conveniently located near schools for families living the Park City lifestyle. Established single-family houses are desirable to young families because of their reasonable prices, attractive looks, and closeness to Trailside Elementary School. Trailside also has newer executive-style deluxe houses, many of which are set on big lots with spectacular views of the area's ski slopes. Residents here also like the easy proximity to the Kimball Junction neighborhood for shopping, eating, and entertainment. The region features top-rated schools, mountain vistas, and convenient access to everything the area has to offer. What more could you want?

Ready to move?

To learn more about Park City Homes for Sale and Lifestyle, you can simply search for available homes here. And if you have further questions and need an expert to assist you, let's connect at Tom@ParkCityHomeSales.com or 435 640-0217. 

With temperatures dropping and winter falling in, the excitement for the ski and ride season is high. Although this year will come in with rules and regulations due to COVID-19, everyone is still excited to bring their families and friends to hit the slopes!

As resorts throughout the state gear up for another snow-filled winter, here's a handy list of opening dates for Utah's resorts:

What To Expect

Social distancing is still in effect - This has become the norm for most of the world, and you'll want to practice that on the ski hill as a safety precaution. While only Deer Valley is asking guests to keep their distance from people who are not part of their household, we know that social distancing is a great way to prevent disease transmission.

• Wearing facemasks is still encouraged - Facemasks will be required in indoor settings including restaurants, lodging properties, restrooms, retail and rental locations, and on buses. But it will not be required outdoors including lift lines,  chairlifts, and gondolas unless required by local public health authorities. 

• Proof of vaccination - Deer Valley does not require proof of vaccination, but they still highly encourage guests to get vaccinated. Meanwhile, in Park City, guests ages 12 years old and above will be required to show their proof of vaccination to dine at indoor restaurants. No proof of vaccination is required for regular skiing and snowboarding. 

• Reservations are not required - One of the most challenging parts of last year's ski season was the lift ticket reservation that's why everyone is overjoyed that none of the local Park City ski slopes will require reservations this season. However, all indoor dining at Park City Mountain Resort requires a reservation, so plan ahead if you intend on eating on the mountain this winter.

• Cashless transactions - All transactions are preferred to be cashless unless otherwise required by local law. This includes hotels, restaurants, ski and ride schools, and all other points of sale. For the best experience, book and pay online in advance.

Once you're ready for a winter visit to Park City, all you have to do now is pick a ski condo or a place to stay to make your experience even more wonderful. Whether you're ready to hit the slopes or just take a stroll around town, winter in Park City has a unique flavor that you won't find anywhere else. 

Winter is on its way, and Park City is already seeing snow. Still, there’s time for you to prepare your home for cold weather. These steps, the majority of which you can do on your own, will help you save money on your utility bills and protect your investment.

Check Your Roof

Look for shingles that are damaged, loose, or missing and could leak during the winter storms or from melting snow.

You can also hire a handyman to repair a few shingles or a roofer to repair a larger section. Inspect and repair any cracks in the flashing seals around vent stacks and chimneys.

Declutter Your Outdoor Spaces

Before you know it, your new patio table can be covered with snow. You can prevent this by keeping any items inside to keep them safe and dry. 

Inspect Your Heating System

Heating your home is essential in Park City, so make sure to have an inspection or testing before winter finally arrives. Check to see if it's running smoothly and heating up properly. Open and close vents as needed to direct air where it is needed. Change the filter regularly.

Clean The Gutters

If your gutters are clogged, water can back up against the house, causing damage to the roofing, siding, and wood trim, as well as leaks and ice dams.

Call a Chimney Sweep

Check your fireplace (or any other heating appliance that burns a gas, oil, wood, or coal), chimney, and vents if they are clean and in good working conditions. This will prevent chimney fires and carbon monoxide from entering your home.

Stock up on Winter Essentials

If you live in Park City, you must be already aware that blizzards and snow-ins are possible. Check your emergency supplies, and don't forget to restock your sidewalk salt supplies before a shortage happens. 

The Bottomline

Getting your home ready for winter can sound like a tedious job, but the financial and long-term safety advantages will dwarf any opposed feelings. For more updates and information about Park City properties and lifestyle, connect to us at Park City Home Sales. 

It is no secret that Park City is a home of four seasons, making it the perfect place and lifestyle that everyone should experience. You can find things to do in Park City all year round, from winter skiing and après nightlife, to summer mountain-biking, horseback riding, fishing, golfing, and many more.

The Winter season is my favorite. There's something magical about being in the mountains, surrounded by snow, that makes everyone in our family come entirely alive. While we love skiing as a family, there is so much more to do in Park City that you should consider doing. Here are the Top 5 activities you shouldn't miss in Park City this November:

Enjoy a Thanksgiving Meal at Park City's world-famous restaurants 

There's no denying that there are various delectable restaurants, with unrivaled mountain views, to spend Thanksgiving Day with your family and friends. If you're looking for an upscale dining experience with picturesque views of the mountains, then trek over to Apex at Upper Deer Valley, or if you're someone who enjoys bistro-style eating and Mexican Food, you can try Billy Blanco's located in Pinebrook.

Visit in Time for a Ski Trip

Park City has long been a haven for skiers. This year, we're looking forward to fewer regulations and, hopefully, plenty of Utah's legendary snow to kick off the season.

Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley Resort, and Woodward Park City are all anticipating a strong start to what is sure to be a fantastic ski season. Weather permitting, the slopes will open for skiing on Friday, November 19th, 2021 at PCMR and Woodward. Deer Valley plans to open on Dec. 4, 2021.

Explore the Historical Main Street

Main Street is the heart of Park City. Even if you are here for world-class skiing at any of our three exciting ski areas, you haven’t truly experienced Park City until you have spent some time exploring this charming Old Town. If you want to learn more about Park City's history, go to the Park City Museum, where you can learn about the city's transformation from an immigrant village to a mining town to a bustling ski destination.

Be sure not to miss the return of The Snow Globe Stroll to Main Street this holiday season on the 17th of November!

Try Horse-Drawn Sleigh for a Full Winter Experience

While many people visit Park City to speed down the slopes, not everyone is aware of the tranquil experience of viewing the winter wonderland from a horse-drawn sleigh. During the ski season, sleighs depart from the Canyons Village Ski Beach every day. 

Get cozy in a luxury Ski Condo

There is a wide range of accommodation to choose from, ranging from cozy cabins and condos to massive ski lodges with private pools. Many Park City vacation homes for sale provide ski-in, ski-out access to the slopes, and many properties include amenities such as private hot tubs and warming, log-burning fireplaces. There are budget-friendly options, as well as super-luxurious properties where you can stay in ultimate style.

With an abundance of outdoor activities, incredible scenery, and white-capped mountain ranges, it is no wonder that people come from all over the world to play and decide to eventually move in. If my recommendations inspire you, take some time to explore Park City, Utah, and get firsthand experience of all the perks it offers. You can check out as well the available ski condos, properties, and land for sale in Park City, speak with our team from Park City Home Sales about any possible suggestions they have on homes for sale. 

Living in Park City doesn’t just happen. It’s a choice. Once you make the choice the rewards are plentiful. But it does require a choice. Factors like weather, small mountain town living, resort town living, cost of living, all must be considered. I'm reflecting on the journey that allowed my wife and me to land here. We were frequent vacationers to the Park City area. We loved skiing, building sledding paths with our son and his friends, hiking, biking, and fishing the many local waters available. Had I been a golfer, I'd have been enjoying one of the 7 golf courses in Park City, Utah. One is a municipal course. There are also another 25 golf courses within 20 miles of Park City, including 3 public, 12 municipal, and 10 private courses. We decided to dip our big toe in the water, test it out, and consider whether this was the place for us. We bought a small cabin in the Old Town area, one bedroom, with a loft, and enough little cubby spaces to neatly store all the “toys” that come in to play here. We used it for several weeks at a time and rented it out to help offset carrying costs. It was an amazing location. Just a short walk to the Town Lift and we were on the hill. Sitting on the porch allowed us to hear the music on Main St. whenever there was an event, and there were always events. Strolling to Park City Silly Sunday was always fun. On the occasion when my wife would get a chocolate craving, at 9:30 p.m., we could bundle up and scoot over to Rocky Mountain Chocolate Co. and scratch that itch.

Fast forward to today and the question of “why” Park Meadows instead of Old Town pops up. We choose our location because we wanted to be close enough to ride our bikes to all the music festivals, walk or ride to Main St. when desired, be central to shopping, restaurants, and outdoor recreation while enjoying the peace and serenity that Park Meadows provides. The energy and charm of Old Town are still attractive. It just caters more to the short-term rental market, perfect for those looking to do the same thing we did originally.  

Whether you’re considering a Park City ski condo, a second home with killer views in Deer Valley, ski in – ski out property at The Colony at White Pine Canyon, or Park City Mountain Resort, plan your visit today, call us to let us know when you’ll be in town, and we’ll guide you as you make YOUR choice.

October 13 & 14 2021, at the Salt Palace, Apple CEO Tim Cook and former CEO of Microsoft Steve Ballmer will take the stage at the Silicon Slope Summit.

The Summit is a celebration of the growing technology sector in Utah, from Silicon Slopes’ base in Lehi to Ogden — which was ranked the No. 1 labor market for all small U.S. metro areas (less than 1 million residents) by the Wall Street Journal this year.

It’s no wonder that people are choosing Park City Real Estate for its clean air, outdoor activities, and friendly nature.

Working remotely, at least partially, allows many in the tech industry to live and enjoy the outdoor lifestyle, choosing locations like Park City, Heber City, or beautiful Midway for homes. An easy commute, when required, can have you in Silicon Slopes within 30 mins.  

Utah’s tech industry, grew an average of 3.6% a year between 2007 and 2017, which was double the national average.

Other speakers include:

• Senators Mitt Romney and Mike Lee
• Ryan Smith, founder & executive chairman of Qualtrics
• Gail Miller, owner of the Larry H. Miller Group of Companies
• Dan Reynolds, lead singer of Imagine Dragons
• iHeartMedia CEO Bob Pittman
• Three-time NBA Champion Dwayne Wade
• Marc Harrison, president & CEO of Intermountain Healthcare

Take a long weekend to tour Park City ski-in/ski-out homes, visit the ski resorts in Park City, and come to understand why Park City real estate is so desirable. The team at Park City Home Sales is happy to set up tours for Park City ski condos, or that amazing Park City Luxury Home.

Credits: Parker Malatesta at townlift.com for some content