by Sheila Nanninga | Sep 29, 2026 | Uncategorized
October is the perfect time to enjoy warm, comforting meals made with seasonal ingredients. This creamy roasted butternut squash and apple soup brings together the natural sweetness of squash and apples with savory herbs and spices for an easy fall favorite.
Simple Fall Flavors
Roasting the squash, apples, and onion first helps bring out their natural flavors and gives the soup a richer taste. Thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, and garlic add just the right amount of warmth.
For a sweeter flavor, try Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples. If you prefer something slightly tart, Granny Smith or Pink Lady work well.
How to Make It
Roast cubed butternut squash, chopped apples, and onion with olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, and thyme at 425°F for 30 to 35 minutes. Add minced garlic during the final few minutes.
Transfer the roasted ingredients to a pot, add about four cups of chicken or vegetable broth, and simmer for 10 minutes. Blend until smooth, then stir in heavy cream, half-and-half, or unsweetened coconut milk.
Adjust the seasoning to taste and add a little extra broth if the soup is too thick.
Easy Ways to Serve It
Serve this soup with crusty bread, a simple green salad, grilled cheese, or roasted vegetables. Pumpkin seeds, fresh thyme, chopped pecans, or a swirl of cream make simple and flavorful garnishes.
The recipe can also be made vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth and a plant-based cream alternative.
A Cozy October Meal
This soup is easy to prepare ahead and makes a comforting lunch or dinner on a cool fall day. It also freezes well, making it a convenient option for busy evenings.
October is a wonderful time to enjoy the comfort of home, and a warm homemade meal is one simple way to make the season feel special.
If you’re thinking about a move this fall, consider what you want your next home to offer, from a more functional kitchen to additional space for family and entertaining. Sometimes the right move begins with a simple conversation about how you want to live.
by Sheila Nanninga | Sep 22, 2026 | Uncategorized
Real estate investing continues to be an important consideration for people looking to build long-term wealth and diversify their financial portfolios. In 2026, investors are paying close attention to property prices, mortgage rates, rental income, operating expenses, and changing market conditions before making investment decisions.
Start With a Clear Investment Strategy
Before purchasing an investment property, it is important to understand your goals. Some investors focus on rental income, while others may prioritize long-term appreciation, property improvements, or portfolio diversification.
Having a clear strategy can help determine which property types, financing options, and investment approaches may fit your financial objectives.
Understand the Numbers
Successful real estate investing requires more than looking at a property’s purchase price. Investors should consider potential rental income, mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, management costs, vacancies, and other operating expenses.
Reviewing these numbers before purchasing can provide a more realistic picture of potential cash flow and overall investment performance.
Consider Financing Costs
Mortgage rates can significantly affect the cost of financing an investment property. Changes in interest rates can influence monthly payments, cash flow, and the amount of capital required for a purchase.
Investors should compare available financing options and consider how different loan terms could affect the long-term cost of the investment.
Location and Property Fundamentals Matter
Location remains an important factor in real estate investing. Investors can research employment trends, transportation access, development activity, property taxes, rental demand, inventory, and other local market fundamentals.
Rather than relying on general market headlines, reviewing current data for the specific property and market can lead to better-informed decisions.
Plan for Ongoing Expenses
Owning an investment property comes with continuing responsibilities. Repairs, maintenance, insurance, property management, utilities, taxes, and periods of vacancy can affect profitability.
Building an appropriate reserve for unexpected expenses can help investors manage changes in operating costs without disrupting their broader financial plans.
Think Long Term
Real estate investing can involve high upfront costs and may require patience. Market conditions can change, and property values and rental income are not guaranteed to increase.
Investors should evaluate potential risks, understand their financing obligations, and consider whether a property aligns with their long-term financial strategy.
Final Thoughts
Real estate investing requires careful research, realistic financial projections, and an understanding of both opportunities and risks. By evaluating property fundamentals, financing costs, operating expenses, and long-term objectives, investors can make more informed decisions in today’s changing market.
by Sheila Nanninga | Sep 15, 2026 | Uncategorized
Owning a home is a long-term commitment that involves more than making a monthly mortgage payment. Regular maintenance, thoughtful improvements, and careful financial planning can help protect your property’s condition and value over time.
Whether you have recently purchased a home or have owned one for years, a proactive approach can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and make better decisions about your property.
Stay Ahead of Home Maintenance
Small maintenance problems can become costly repairs when they are ignored. Regularly check your roof, gutters, plumbing, HVAC system, windows, appliances, and exterior areas.
Creating a seasonal maintenance routine can help you identify potential problems early and keep your home operating efficiently.
Understand Your Home’s Value
Home values can change as market conditions shift. Recent comparable sales, inventory, property condition, and improvements can all influence what a home may be worth.
Reviewing your home’s value periodically can be helpful if you are considering refinancing, selling, renovating, or simply tracking your long-term investment.
Make Improvements With Purpose
Home improvements should balance cost, functionality, and potential value. Before starting a major renovation, consider the project’s expected benefits and how much it will cost.
Updates such as fresh paint, improved lighting, updated flooring, kitchen or bathroom improvements, and energy-efficient features can enhance a home’s functionality and appeal.
Keep Homeownership Costs in Mind
The cost of owning a home goes beyond the mortgage. Property taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, repairs, and unexpected expenses should all be considered when planning your budget.
Reviewing these costs regularly can help you prepare for future expenses and avoid financial surprises.
Consider Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient improvements can reduce operating costs while improving comfort. Depending on the home, upgrades such as better insulation, efficient windows, LED lighting, smart thermostats, and updated HVAC equipment may provide long-term benefits.
Before making an investment, compare the upfront cost with potential savings over time.
Keep Important Records Organized
Keep records of major repairs, renovations, warranties, inspections, permits, and service work. Organized documentation can make future maintenance easier and provide useful information when refinancing or selling.
Digital copies can also make important property records easier to access when needed.
Review Your Insurance Coverage
Your home and its contents can change over time, so it is worth reviewing your insurance coverage periodically. Major renovations, new belongings, or changes to the property may affect your coverage needs.
Discuss your policy with your insurance professional to make sure your coverage remains appropriate.
Stay Informed About the Market
Understanding broader real estate trends can help homeowners make more informed financial decisions. Mortgage rates, home prices, inventory, and economic conditions can all influence the housing market.
However, market conditions can change, so avoid making major decisions based on a single headline or short-term trend.
Plan Before Making Major Decisions
Whether you are considering a renovation, refinancing, selling, or simply maintaining your property, start with reliable information.
Compare costs, consider your long-term goals, and seek professional advice when needed. A thoughtful approach can help you make decisions that support both your home and your finances.
Final Thoughts
Successful homeownership is built on consistent maintenance, smart planning, and informed decisions. By taking care of your property, managing expenses, and understanding its value, you can help protect one of your most important assets.
Small steps today can make homeownership easier and more manageable over the years.
by Sheila Nanninga | Sep 14, 2026 | Uncategorized
Home improvement projects do not always need to be large or expensive to make a meaningful impact. Small updates can improve comfort, increase property value, and make a home feel more modern and inviting.
Many homeowners today are focusing on practical improvements that enhance both appearance and functionality. Fresh paint, updated lighting, improved landscaping, and organized storage spaces are simple upgrades that can completely refresh a home without requiring a major renovation.
Kitchen and bathroom updates continue to be some of the most popular home improvement projects because they often provide strong long-term value. Even small changes like replacing hardware, updating fixtures, or adding new backsplashes can make a noticeable difference.
Energy-efficient upgrades are also becoming increasingly important. Smart thermostats, improved insulation, energy-efficient windows, and modern appliances can help reduce utility costs while making homes more comfortable year-round.
Home improvement is not just about increasing resale value. It is also about creating a space that better fits your lifestyle and daily needs. Whether you are preparing to sell or planning to stay for years, thoughtful upgrades can help your home feel more functional, enjoyable, and welcoming.
The best home improvements are often the ones that combine comfort, practicality, and long-term value.
by Sheila Nanninga | Sep 14, 2026 | Uncategorized
Preparing your home for sale is one of the most effective ways to attract buyers, especially in the competitive Park City real estate market. A well-staged home creates a strong first impression and helps buyers picture themselves living in the space. Whether you are selling a luxury mountain retreat, condominium, townhome, or single-family residence, thoughtful staging can help highlight your property’s best features and support buyer interest.
Start by decluttering and creating a clean, inviting environment. Remove personal items, organize storage spaces, and arrange furniture to make each room feel open and functional. Natural light is another key selling point, so open curtains, clean windows, and add soft lighting where needed. In Park City, showcasing mountain views, fireplaces, and outdoor living areas can make your home even more appealing to potential buyers.
Small updates can also make a big difference. Fresh paint in neutral colors, clean carpets, polished floors, and simple landscaping can instantly improve your home’s appearance. Add tasteful décor, fresh flowers, and comfortable seating to create a warm atmosphere. Buyers are often drawn to homes that feel move-in ready, making these affordable improvements a smart investment before listing your property.
Staging is more than decorating. It is a marketing strategy that helps your home stand out in the Park City housing market. By presenting a clean, welcoming, and well-maintained space, you can increase buyer interest and improve your chances of selling faster. If you are preparing to list your Park City home, investing a little time in staging can lead to a more successful sale.
by Sheila Nanninga | Aug 14, 2026 | Residential | Closed
$130,000
Closed
!!! BACK ON THE MARKET. NO FAULT OF THE SELLER. BUYER’S FINANCING FELL THROUGH!!!!
OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE THIS HOUSE A HOME!! NEEDS TLC AND REPAIR SKILLS, BUT IN THE END, YOU WILL HAVE A GREAT HOME TO ENJOY. A FIREPLACE GRACES THE FAMILY ROOM. THIS HOUSE WAS REIMAGINED FROM A 3 BDRM TO A TWO BDRM TO ALLOW ACCESS TO THE FAMILY ROOM ADDITION. 3RD BEDROOM WAS CONVERTED INTO A FORMAL DINING ROOM WITH ORIGINAL HARDWOOD FLOOR AND A PASSTHRU WINDOW FROM THE KITCHEN, LEAVING THE ORIGINAL DINING AREA TO BE USED FOR AN OFFICE OR STUDY. ORIGINAL HARDWOODS UNDER CARPET. THE BASEMENT NEEDS SOME ATTENTION AND HAS INSIDE ACCESS. CARPORT PROVIDES EXTRA PARKING. FENCED YARD. BRING YOUR IMAGINATION AND INGINEUITY AS THE POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS. Note: The air conditioner went out. HVAC company says the CONTACT went out. Seller is not going to have it fixed. Fan is on but house will not be cool. Refrigerator in kitchen does not work, but the Refrigerator downstairs does. Property being Sold AS-IS.
by Sheila Nanninga | Aug 7, 2026 | OPEN HOUSE | Residential | Active
OPEN HOUSE: Sun, Aug 09, 2026 02:00 PM – 04:00 PM
$390,000
This Lovely Home Sits Next to a Beautiful Pond With A Park Like Setting in Coveted North Waterfield Addition.
Lots of easy to clean Roll Out Windows make this home rich with Natural Light. The Kitchen Boasts of Beautiful New Tile Backsplash, New Granite Countertop, New Dishwasher & Microwave, Updated Undermount Stainless Steel Sink. Open Atrium style main living area lets you have a complete view into Family room that has a Remote Controlled Hearth & Home Ducy 3 Vented Gas Log Fireplace and walks out to Private patio & deck with a view of the pond, making it ideal for entertaining. Primary Bedroom and Bath w/walkin closet, new updated ceramic tile shower & floors, & New toilet. NEED 4 BEDROOMS???? Sub level finished & does have window & TWO walkin closets… however window is non-conforming so would be great as den/office/kids game/video room as well. New Wood Fence.
by Sheila Nanninga | Jul 30, 2026 | OPEN HOUSE | Residential | Active
OPEN HOUSE: Sun, Aug 02, 2026 02:00 PM – 04:00 PM
$390,000
This Lovely Home Sits Next to a Beautiful Pond With A Park Like Setting in Coveted North Waterfield Addition.
Lots of easy to clean Roll Out Windows make this home rich with Natural Light. The Kitchen Boasts of Beautiful New Tile Backsplash, New Granite Countertop, New Dishwasher & Microwave, Updated Undermount Stainless Steel Sink. Open Atrium style main living area lets you have a complete view into Family room that has a Remote Controlled Hearth & Home Ducy 3 Vented Gas Log Fireplace and walks out to Private patio & deck with a view of the pond, making it ideal for entertaining. Primary Bedroom and Bath w/walkin closet, new updated ceramic tile shower & floors, & New toilet. NEED 4 BEDROOMS???? Sub level finished & does have window & TWO walkin closets… however window is non-conforming so would be great as den/office/kids game/video room as well. New Wood Fence.
by Sheila Nanninga | Jul 24, 2026 | Residential | Active
$675,000
Active
Welcome home to this spacious residence nestled on 1.06 acres, in the highly sought-after Canterbury Trails subdivision of Blue Springs. Designed for both comfortable everyday living and effortless entertaining, this home offers a great open floor plan with the primary bedroom and private ensuite bath conveniently located on the main level.
The heart of the home features a well-appointed kitchen with granite countertops, ample cabinetry, and generous workspace, flowing seamlessly into the main living areas. Stainless Steel Appliances Stay. A bright four-seasons room provides the perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee or unwind year-round while taking in views of the scenery and wildlife.
Square footage is approximate.
by Sheila Nanninga | Jul 18, 2026 | OPEN HOUSE | Residential | Active
OPEN HOUSE: Sun, Jul 19, 2026 02:00 PM – 04:00 PM
$390,000
This Lovely Home Sits Next to a Beautiful Pond With A Park Like Setting in Coveted North Waterfield Addition.
Lots of easy to clean Roll Out Windows make this home rich with Natural Light. The Kitchen Boasts of Beautiful New Tile Backsplash, New Granite Countertop, New Dishwasher & Microwave, Updated Undermount Stainless Steel Sink. Open Atrium style main living area lets you have a complete view into Family room that has a Remote Controlled Hearth & Home Ducy 3 Vented Gas Log Fireplace and walks out to Private patio & deck with a view of the pond, making it ideal for entertaining. Primary Bedroom and Bath w/walkin closet, new updated ceramic tile shower & floors, & New toilet. NEED 4 BEDROOMS???? Sub level finished & does have window & TWO walkin closets… however window is non-conforming so would be great as den/office/kids game/video room as well. New Wood Fence.