Pursuing Homes Northern California Blog

Nov. 17, 2017

Penryn Homes & Properties for Sale

Penryn Home For Sale

The charming small town of Penryn offers residents a rural, laid back environment. As of the 2010 census, the population stood at a mere 831 people. The town sits only 2.5 miles northeast of Loomis, 5.5 miles northeast of Rocklin and 6.5 miles south of Granite Bay.

If you're in the market for a small town home near Sacramento, Penryn should be a serious consideration. Learn more about this town below. 

Rich History

The town's history goes back to 1864, when a Welsh immigrant named Griffith Griffith established a granite quarry on a section of land leased by the Central Pacific Railroad. Griffith later named the quarry Penryn, a name derived from the Welsh word 'penrhyn', which translates to headland or promontory.

For the next several years, Penryn was nothing more than a quarry. The first sign of an emerging town came in 1869 when a large frame building was built. This building housed a railroad depot, shop, and saloon. Soon after, several business followed and the town of Penryn was born.

A Charming Town

Today, Penryn thrives as a neighborhood full of relatively upscale, single family homes. The community has a very rural atmosphere, with plenty of space, lots of trees, and only a small handful of businesses.

Residents often attribute its quiet environment and sparse developments as reasons why they love living here. Typical sights include tall trees, rugged roads, fruit groves, ponds, and properties lined with towering palm trees.

Schools & Commerce

As a small town, Penryn does not have many schools or commercial developments. The only two schools directly within the community are Penryn Elementary School and Penryn Oaks Pre School & Day. As far as businesses, the most well known is the Valencia Club, a charming nightclub with music and cocktails.

Though commerce and education is scarce within Penryn itself, larger towns with more services lie just a short drive away. These include Rocklin, Loomis, and Roseville. There, one can find all the necessary services, from schools, to restaurants, to hospitals, and everything else.

Homes for Sale

Homes for sale in Penryn are a rare find, but worth the wait. Popular architectural styles include Victorian, cabin, ranchette, midcentury, modern, and more. They tend to be very spacious, brimming with unique amenities, and typically sit on enormous, multi-acre lots. 

Penryn properties boast many great features, some of which would be very difficult to find in more densely populated neighborhoods. Common ones include three or more bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, 3 car garages, high ceilings, wooden decks, hardwood floors, gourmet kitchens, and large master bedrooms.

Apart from these more common amenities, many homes include rare amenities that celebrate the rural lifestyle. They include things like humongous yards with custom landscaping, ponds alive with water lilies and koi fish, bird aviaries, chicken coops, fruit trees, and panoramic views of the Sierra Mountains.

PENRYN HOMES FOR SALE


Keep an eye out for available homes above, and jump on the chance by contacting us or submitting an inquiry if you see one you like! 

 

Posted in Buyers, Penryn
Nov. 16, 2017

4 Tips for Choosing a Realtor

Are you thinking of buying a house or selling a house? One of the first steps you'll want to take is to find a good realtor. There are many local realtors advertising their services, so the process of finding the right one can be quite daunting.

There are a lot of factors to consider, so how do you know which to work with? Consider the following tips to help with your search: 

1. Look for Plenty of Referrals

They say the best predictor of future performance is past performance. A realtor with strong knowledge and experience will invariably have a substantial list of past clients. These will either be past home buyers or sellers.

So don't hesitate to research online testimonials and ask for a list with contact information. If clients had a good experience working with that realtor, they won't mind sharing it with you. You should also expect to find good reviews online as well. 

There are several very useful questions you can ask past clients, like:

  • Were they happy with the services rendered?
  • Were they a good negotiator?
  • Was the home in question bought or sold for an agreeable price?
  • If it's a seller, did their home sell within an acceptable timeframe and for an acceptable price?
  • If it's a buyer, did the realtor listen to their needs and find appropriate properties?
  • If a home sale, did the home sell in a timely manner?
  • If a home purchase, did the agent listen to the client's needs
  • If a home purchase, did they work within the price range? 

We recommend contacting at least a handful of past clients, as it will help you compare and contrast answers to develop an accurate view of a realtor's level of competence.

2. Verify Their Licensure

Every state in the country requires realtors to obtain licenses before conducting real estate transactions. Before hiring a realtor, your first priority should be to verify that they are licensed.

A real estate license indicates that a realtor is complying with the rules and regulations that govern the industry. Furthermore, a license imposes an expectation of ethical behavior and honest business practices. It's a good way to ensure that the realtor you're working with is accountable.

More experienced realtors will have certifications and licenses beyond the standard state license. Ask any prospective realtors about these. The more they have, the more effort they have put into becoming knowledgable about their industry.

3. Remember that Experience Matters

When it comes to finding the right realtor, it's absolutely crucial to verify that they have extensive experience. There are several questions you can ask to get the information you need, such as:

  • Does the agent understand the in's and out's of the local real estate market?
  • How many clients have they worked with?
  • What price range of homes have they been involved in buying/selling?
  • Which specific neighborhoods have they worked in?

This is not to say that a novice can't effectively represent you. However, it is generally best to find someone who really knows their stuff.

4. Communication is Key

Buying or selling a home often is often a long and arduous process with much back and forth interaction. If your real estate agent lacks communication skills, it can make the process feel even longer. 

There are many ways to tell if an agent knows how to communicate well. An agent who communicates well will pay close attention to your instructions and act accordingly. Furthermore, they should update you on all pertinent information regarding your home sale or purchase. If you call or email requesting information, you should expect a prompt reply.

Part of good communication also includes replying to information requests, keeping you informed, and negotiating on your behalf. When it comes to real estate, good communication is key for successful transactions.

Perhaps most importantly, an agent who communicates effectively will be stronger during negotiations. They won't hesitate to speak up and articulate your interests. Also, they won't shy away from contentious exchanges, which often occur during real estate transactions.

Contact us 

At Pursuing Homes, we've successfully helped many home buyers and sellers throughout the Sacramento area. If you are thinking about buying or selling real estate, you've come to the right place!

We'll be happy to provide you with plenty of references to past clients who loved working with us. Please give us a call or submit an inquiry and we'll get back to you promptly.

 

Nov. 11, 2017

3 Rocklin Neighborhoods by D.R. Horton

D.R. Horton, America's largest home builder based on closings, is a very active developer in the city of Rocklin. As a matter of fact, D.R. Horton built three new Rocklin neighborhoods in the last few years alone.

These neighborhoods feature modern, practical, and relatively affordable homes. Check them out below and contact us if you are interested in homes for sale in Rocklin

1. Parkview

This neighborhood features a total of 115 homes, built according to D.R. Horton's Built for Better Living® guidelines. These set various standards of quality to ensure homes are not only livable, but also highly enjoyable. They also set standards for energy efficiency, durability, comfort, and convenience.

Parkview homes range in size from 2,000 square feet to over 3,000 square feet. Architectural styles include Spanish, Craftsman, and Italian. Typical amenities include open floor plans, multi-car garages, custom kitchens, granite countertops, high end appliances, and other desirable upgrades.

The surrounding area features rolling green hills, winding nature trails, and well maintained streets and yards. Great schools, popular shopping centers, and easy freeway access are also in the area.

Prices for these homes start in the low to mid $400,000 range.

2. Sunrise 

The Sunrise at Two Oaks neighborhood is the more affordable and smaller part of a dual development. The other development, Serenity, is covered below. Houses here are exclusively two story single family homes, which contrasts with the single story homes in surrounding neighborhoods.

Homes range from 2,500 square feet to well over 3,000 square feet, and typically include four bedrooms and three bathrooms. A very practical option for those seeking more affordable homes in the general Northern California area.

Prices start around the mid $400,000 range, with more expensive models selling for upwards of $500,000. 

3. Serenity 

Serenity at Two Oaks is the more expensive counterpart of Sunrise. These homes are more towards the center of the dual development, offering spacious layouts and a wide array of amenities. Residents enjoy being close to Roseville's Westfield Galleria, great restaurants, fantastic schools, entertainment centers, and a plentitude of outdoor activities.

The majority of these homes are recently built, Spanish style, and single family. Home buyers will be happy to find spacious residences ranging in size from 1,800 square feet to around 4,000 square feet, with three to five bedrooms, and two to four bathrooms.

Prices range from the low $500,000 range to the mid $600,000 range.

 

Posted in Community, Rocklin
Nov. 6, 2017

21 Must-See Granite Bay Neighborhoods

There is so much to appreciate about Granite Bay neighborhoods. They offer a wonderful array of high-quality lifestyle opportunities for home buyers who love tranquility and open space. Along with many modern amenities, they also provide a gorgeous natural landscape decorated with lakes, streams, rolling hills, and abundant wildlife. 

Check out this video below to see a visual of all that this city has to offer:

You will find many custom homes brimming with sophisticated architectural detail. Roseville lies to the west and Folsom Lake to the east of Granite Bay, with a population of 20,402 people as of the 2010 census. However, as of November 2017, the median home value was relatively high at $737,200.

Top Neighborhood Picks 

If this looks like the place for you, we've picked out some of the top neighborhoods to check out that you don't want to miss:

1. Ashley Woods

Ashley Woods makes you feel welcome with its tranquil streets and lush sun-soaked vegetation. The 250 homes that compose it sit safely behind four gated entrances. Moderate HOA fees cover maintenance of common areas, roads, and grounds.

Parents will be happy to know that it sits close to the Eureka School District, which is know for its high performing students and excellent educational standards. You can visit the Granite Bay Golf Club just two miles away, making it an ideal neighborhood for golf lovers. 

2. Cavitt Stallman

The Cavitt Stallman neighborhood includes relatively affordable fixer uppers alongside updated luxury homes. Although the fixer uppers need considerable work, the price is right and the location is hard to beat! These home options make it a great neighborhood option for those looking to plant roots in Granite Bay without breaking the bank.

Conversely, those looking for move-in ready homes will find great options as well. These homes boast nice features like extra rooms, large master bedrooms, oversized lots, sprawling yards, and multi-car garages. While the fixer uppers start around $500,000, renovated homes list for well above $1,000,000, making it a unique neighborhood worth considering. 

3. Douglas Ranch

Douglas Ranch is one of Granite Bay's more impressive neighborhoods with its 98 custom-built homes full of rustic charm. Residences sit on extra large lots, typically consisting of multiple acres. Additionally, they feature a large numbers of bedrooms, multi-car garages, private pools, meticulously maintained yards, and impressive architectural detail.

Prices go well into the millions and inventory remains low throughout the year. So keep your eyes peeled for homes for sale in the Douglas Ranch neighborhood

4. Eastridge

Eastridge is a non-gated community built in the 1990's that technically falls under the jurisdiction of Roseville. This means residents benefit from Roseville amenities while maintaining a Granite Bay address.

Homes here are comparably more affordable, with the lowest prices in the mid to high $700,000 range. They are not only affordable for Granite Bay, but also very spacious. Most include 4-5 bedrooms with open floor plans, high ceilings, and ample outdoor space.

5. Folsom Lake Estates

The Folsom Lake estates feature sprawling ranch and contemporary style single family homes. Most were built between 1974 and 2005, including 3 to 6 bedrooms and 2 to 5 bathrooms. Square footage tends to be high, with larger homes reaching over 7,000 square feet.

Prices range from the mid $700,000 rabge to well above $2,000,000. Residents benefit from close proximity to Folsom Lake and all the recreational activities it offers. Other features of this Granite Bay neighborhood include tennis courts, playgrounds, a private park, and extensive hiking trails.

6. Gibson

Gibson Place is a small and tranquil street that cuts off at the west end, giving the neighborhood a private, secluded feel. It's perfect for those who prefer to live off the beaten path in a place that feels like its own little world. However, there are plenty of nearby restaurant options like Hawks, Pullman Kitchen & Catering, and Source Global Tapas Resturant when you feel like treating yourself to dinner. 

Real estate here consists of single family homes, many of them on large lots with plenty of space for improvements like swimming pools, sporting courts, gardens, and more. Nearby schools include Greenhills Elementary and Eureka Elementary. 

7. Granite Bay Hills

This gated community just east of Folsom Lake features 79 homes amidst beautiful rolling green hills. Its homes are uniquely styled, surrounded by stately oak trees, granite outcroppings, and land rich with wildlife. With Sacramento just 20 miles east and Lake Tahoe 90 miles east, it's an ideal location for outdoor lovers. 

At its center is a sprawling community park thriving with activity. It includes tennis courts, basketball courts, playgrounds, and plenty of open space to exercise and play. 

8. Grosvenor Downs

Grosvenor Downs is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Granite Bay due to its relatively affordable prices. It's a peaceful non-gated neighborhood with contemporary and ranch style single-family homes built between 1988 and 1992. Most average three to five bedrooms and two to four bathrooms, with square footage averaging 3,400. 

Its central location places residents within easy reach of various dining, shopping, and outdoor recreation options.

9. Hidden Lakes Estates

By any measure, Hidden Lakes Estates is an incredible place to call home. Residents experience a tranquil and rural lifestyle with all of the amenities that come from a city nearby. Sacramento lies 25 miles to the west and Roseville is just 6 miles away in the same direction.

While the first homes were built in 1977, most were completed by 1990. Most homes are custom built and sit on very spacious lots. You can expect an abundance of oak trees, blue oak trees, granite outcroppings, two small lakes, and a 4-acre open space to explore.

10. Hillsborough

Hillsborough is a gated community that includes moderately priced custom and semi-custom built homes. However, residents still enjoy very similar amenities to their neighbors in more high priced subdivisions.

Safe, quiet streets and high-performing schools make it an ideal place for families. Notably, a Montessori school lies within walking distance of most residences.

11. Los Lagos

This gated community provides residents with a private, serene lifestyle and some of the most desirable luxury real estate in Granite Bay. The total number is homes is approximately 350.

Residents enjoy diverse amenities that include a private walking trail to Folsom Lake, small private lakes, and a meticulously maintained recreational park. Furthermore, it features the Los Lagos Equestrian center, various golf courses, and nearby popular shopping centers like The Fountains and the Galleria.

12. Olive Ranch

Olive Ranch is a quiet neighborhood featuring various styles of single family homes. It's a great area for those who enjoy rural settings. Amenities include high ceilings, open floor plans, granite counters, custom cabinetry, high quality finishes, and large master suites. Notably, there are no HOA's or Mello Roos.

But despite its laid back ambiance, it is still surrounded by million dollar gated estates. There are newer homes alongside homes in need of updates and renovations, creating a diverse selection of homes in the area. 

13. Princeton Reach

Here you will find a more affluent neighborhood with well established homes. It's one of the Granite Bay's smaller communities, full of expansive homes on sprawling lots. Most home here were built within the last thirty years, so most remain in relatively good structural condition. 

Typical home features include a large number of bedrooms and bathrooms, large kitchens, majestic fireplaces, beautiful views, hardwood floors, custom cabinetry, swimming pools, and meticulously landscaped gardens - leaving plenty of room for the whole family! 

14. Shelborne

This subdivision consists of 87 single family homes on large lots starting just under an acre. It sits 25 miles east of Sacramento and west of Lake Tahoe. Folsom Lake is a five minute drive away! Perfect for those hot summer months.

Unique homes sit in a park-like environment lush with trees and other vegetation. A culturally rich community engages residents with various social events like an annual BBQs, easter egg hunts, and ladies ornament exchanges. It's ideal for anyone seeking a friendly and active neighborhood.

15. Sherwood Forest

Sherwood Forest is a small 112 resident neighborhood featuring well maintained single family homes. Tree lined driveways and roads give the neighborhood a private feel. It's located off of Auburn Folsom Road and includes Cedar Oaks Drive and Robin Hood Way.

The average age in Sherwood Forest is 50 years old, with 96% homeowners. Homes boast an impressive array of attractive features like updated kitchens, pristine swimming pools, plenty of space, and multi-car garages. 

16. Silverwood

Silverwood is a prestigious gated neighborhood consisting of North, East, and West subdivisions. Homes range from upscale to luxury with impressive estates on enormous lots. Typical amenities include large open floor plans, enormous kitchens, ample outdoor space, and much more. 

Parents love its proximity to schools in the renowned Eureka and Roseville school districts. There are only about 50 homes with prices ranging from mid $800,000 to upwards of $1,000,000. When it comes to luxurious Granite Bay neighborhoods, Silverwood is certainly one to consider.

17. The Residences at Granite Bay Golf Club

The Residences at Granite Bay Golf Club is a small and exclusive Granite Bay neighborhood off of Golf Club Drive. This gated community features amazing custom homes in various ranch, country, and modern styles.

With the Granite Bay Golf Club next door, it's an ideal neighborhood for golf lovers. The golf club, among Sacramento's best, is ideally situated among granite outcroppings, stately oaks, and natural lakes. Its championship golf course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Kyle Phillips, offers a fantastic golf experience. 

Most of these homes list for over $1,000,000, and tend to sell fairly quickly, so act quickly and contact us if you find a home you love! 

18. The Residences at Greyhawk

The Residences at Greyhawk is among Granite Bay's most desirable gated neighborhoods. Custom homes in this coveted community exhibit a modern feel, both in terms of construction and overall design. Only 21 homesites are available, adding to the area's exclusive ambiance.

These homes range from 2,500 square feet to over 3,000. Architectural styles include Spanish and Italian, with attractive amenities like open floor plans, large master suites, three car garages, energy efficient design, and California rooms for entertaining guests. Prices start around $700,000, with the most expensive homes selling for over $1,000,000. 

19. Treelake Village

Located toward the center of Granite Bay, Treelake Village is a fantastic place to call home. Even more so for outdoor lovers, as it hosts one of the best nature trails in the area. It runs along the border of East Roseville Parkway, making it highly scenic.

Additionally, homeowners get to enjoy a private lake and private park, Treelake Village Park. On weekends, the park comes alive with families and sporting events. Granite Bay High School and Granite Bay Golf Course are within walking distance for all residents.

20. Wedgewood

Wedgewood is one of the most distinguished gated communities in Granite Bay. The close knit population of 1,100 enjoy an array of amenities, including proximity to Folsom Lake, a neighborhood park, winding nature trails, open wetlands, and the Granite Bay Golf Course.

Homes dazzle among treelined streets and scenic views of marshes and granite bluffs. Interiors feature luxurious kitchens, high-end appliances, granite countertops, multiple fireplaces, and massive master bedrooms. Home prices are relatively high, with most homes selling above $1,000,000.

21. Wexford

Another luxurious community to consider is Wexford. These extravagant homes are surrounded by expertly manicured grounds, each on about 0.5 to 1.5 acres of land. Square footage ranges from 3,300 square feet to upwards of 9,500 square feet.

The entrance gate is guarded 24 hours, providing extra security for residents. Shared amenities include street maintenance, landscaping of common areas, and maintenance of sports courts and recreational facilities. Home prices start at around $1,500,000 and go well above $3,000,000. 

Contact Us 

We at Pursuing Homes have the local knowledge and expertise to guide you in the right direction, so contact us if you are ready to explore homes in any of these neighborhoods.

 

Posted in Buyers, Granite Bay
Nov. 2, 2017

Award-Winning Serrano in El Dorado Hills

If you're searching for the perfect homes for sale in El Dorado Hills, check out the award-winning gated community of Serrano. This community is full of spacious luxury homes in a beautiful natural landscape.

Residents can find an idyllic lifestyle with impressive amenities, including 1,000 acres of preserved open space and access to Serrano Country Club with its internationally renowned golf courses.

A Nature Lover's Paradise

Serrano residents are passionate when it comes to protecting the natural environment that surrounds their neighborhood. Hybrid vehicles, recycled water, solar panels, and vast tracts of naturally preserved land reflect the community's devotion to environmental causes.

Locals don't just enjoy preserving nature, they also like to experience it. This community sits very close to the southeastern portion of Folsom Lake and is within driving distance to Lake Tahoe. Everything from boating, water skiing, kite surfing, fishing, and so much more are available in the area.

In the mood for a hike, morning jog or whitewater rafting? There are 17 miles of trails for all the hiking and jogging for one's heart desires and the South American River is the most popular California destination for river rafting.

Available Homes

This affluent gated community consists of various neighborhoods with single family homes. From vast estates to custom-built homes, there is no shortage of beautiful and highly coveted properties.

Prices start in the $500,000 range, with the most expensive homes listing for well over $3,000,000. Typical amenities include, but are not limited to, hardwood floors, master retreats, large showers, generous closets, ample yards, sweeping views, tall ceilings, and high-end appliances.

Furthermore, the Serrano HOA provides home owners with many valuable benefits like front yard landscaping maintenance and 24 hour roaming security.

Serrano Country Club

The Serrano Country Club is the crowned jewel of this community. This 34,000 square foot clubhouse features an expertly designed golf course, offering both elegant and casual dining options. One can enjoy a great meal while admiring breathtaking views of Folsom Lake, Mount Diablo, the Sierra Nevada, green rolling hills, and lush oak trees.

Meanwhile, golf lovers can enjoy courses designed by internationally renowned golf course architect, Robert Trent Jones Jr. His par-72 championship golf course blends in with the local terrain's natural features, making for a unique and varied golfing experience.

Apart from golfing and dining, Serrano Country Club visitors get to enjoy many other activities like lit tennis courts, a junior Olympic-sized swimming pool, fitness facilities, a spa, and a wading pool.

Your Serrano Local Experts

At Pursuing Homes, we take pride in our extensive knowledge of local communities including Serrano. It's no surprise that those who settle here tend to stay for the long term.

Give us a call today to learn more about pricing, amenities, and other important considerations if you are interested in this community. 

 

Oct. 30, 2017

The Club at Westpark in Roseville

The Club at Westpark Single Family Home

The Club at Westpark in Roseville offers senior residents spacious and modern homes brimming with desirable amenities. With only around 700 homes, this is an ideal place for those who prefer smaller, tight knit communities. However, it is not lacking in adventure potential with the San Francisco Bay Area, Lake Tahoe, Folsom, and Napa Valley in driving distance. 

Home Details

All the homes are single family, one-story homes priced between approximately $250,000 and $600,000. The square footage ranges from 1,300 sq ft to over 2,800 sq ft. Association fees are reasonable at about $160 per month, and HOA fees cover various useful services like yard maintenance.

Prospective residents will be pleased to know that every kitchen comes equipped with granite countertops, quality cabinets, and high end appliances. Additionally, homes include oversized tile, soundproof windows, and digital alarm systems, just to name a few. 

Recreational Center

At the center of this wonderful retirement community is The Retreat. This is a recreational facility with over 10,300 sq ft of space, including two bocce courts, a large outdoor pool, a state-of-the-art gym, and general event lawn. Wi-Fi hotspots are also present throughout the building. 

One of the most attractive features of The Retreat is its concierge services. Residents can enjoy access to tickets for popular events, reservations at highly rated restaurants, management of car rentals, schedules, pet-sitters, and coordination of shopping trips. This feature is covered by HOA fees - a win-win! 

Great Location

Senior residents can rest assured with nearby regional hospitals and other health maintenance organizations, including Sutter Roseville Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Radiation Oncology, Mercy San Juan Medical Center, and Mercy Hospital of Folsom. Some of the region's largest hospitals are also nearby in Sacramento, including Kaiser Permanente Downtown Commons Medical Offices, Mercy General Hospital, Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento Orthopedic Center, and Mercy Healthcare.

Residents of this retirement community also benefit from their proximity to thriving lifestyle centers. The closest is Westfield Galleria in Roseville with popular stores like Aerie, Adore Cosmetics, Amazing Alterations, Apple Store, Aveda, Banana Republic, Bath & Body Works, Charlotte Russe, JC Penny, Gap, Louis Vitton, Michael Kors, Sephora and many many more.

An upscale option is The Fountains at Roseville, a unique collection of stores and restaurants. They include Charming Charlie, Anthropologie, Chico's, Lane Bryant, Soma Intimates, Kenny G & Company Fine Jewelers, Sunglass Hut, and Xfinity among others. Meanwhile, dining options include Boudin SF, Jack's Urban Eats, Mikuni Kaizen, and Whole Foods Market.

In addition to exceptional medical centers and shopping centers, The Club at Westpark is also close to wonderful golf courses including Woodcreek Golf Club, Morgan Creek, Whitney Oaks, and Diamond Oaks.

In The Media

Community Video Tour

TopRetirements.com Community Review

Resident Portal

Whether shopping, dining, or seeking recreation, The Club at Westpark's residents have great options to choose from in their surrounding community. 

 

Posted in Community, Roseville
Oct. 25, 2017

Folsom Expands with Folsom Ranch

Folsom Ranch Development Sketch

The story of Folsom Ranch goes back to 2004, when voters passed Measure W by a wide margin. Measure W granted the City of Folsom control of 3,500 acres south of Highway 50. The reason for its passage was straightforward- the city needed more space for its growing population.

With this measure, residents ensured the space would be developed in a way that served the community's best interests. Today, after many hearings and intense negotiation, a plan for development has finally been approved. It took thirteen years, but construction is underway!

An Ideal Place to Live & Work

Folsom Ranch will be the central community in this new part of the City of Folsom. Development was planned from the ground up with the goal of making it a perfect place to both live and work. Its 2,650 acres of land includes rolling hills, lush grasslands, gentle creeks, and vast tracts of heritage oaks.

Neighborhood features read like someone's wish list for a great place to settle down. For starters, more than 1,000 acres of land are permanently protected as open space. Consequently, residents need not worry of overcrowding and overdevelopment.

Notably, a significant portion of this protected land consists of pristine oak woodlands. Further adding to the area's natural beauty, Folsom Ranch is set to include 138 acres of public parks.

It will also have its own independent water supply, with no impact to surrounding communities. All this, in addition to beautiful homes, a bustling town center, quality jobs, new cutting edge schools, and other educational facilities. 

Planning For Lasting Prosperity

Since the final plan for developing Folsom Ranch was adopted in 2011, it has been praised from diverse groups for many  reasons.

The environmentally conscious love it for preserving natural assets in a land rich with wildlife. City and county officials are enthusiastic about a development that ensures economic growth with its business and education centers. Landowners are excited at the chance to finally develop an area ripe with potential.

Meanwhile, existing residents look forward to a worthy expansion of their beloved City of Folsom. It's a win win situation all around.

A Community For Its People

When Folsom City Council held a hearing to adopt a final development plan in June of 2011, over 20 speakers spoke in enthusiastic support of it. These included both stakeholders and current residents of Folsom.

Mike McKeever, chief executive officer of the Sacramento Area council of Governments, gave a particularly strong endorsement. He lauded the plan's devotion to environmentally friendly development, its myriad transportation options, and its balance of residential and commercial area. He further noted its adherence to SACOG Blueprint principles.

These are guiding standards for developing more livable and sustainable communities. Lastly, he praised the plan's overall attention to detail, and cited it as a shining example for future developments in the general region.

Bountiful Amenities

These are just a few of the highlights Folsom Ranch residents can look forward to:

Bustling Town Center
In the middle of Folsom Ranch will be a 'village core' with everything that makes small towns particularly appealing. This includes a civic center, a public library, recreation facilities, an aquatic center, high walkability, and easy transportation.

As a matter of fact, residents may never need their cars to get around town. All neighborhoods will enjoy direct transit in and out of the town center.

30% Open Space
Undoubtedly one of Folsom's Ranch most promising features is its vast open spaces, constituting 30% of the total area. Notably, this does not include land reserved for parks and other open spaces.

Varied Quality Housing
Currently, Folsom Ranch includes plans for 11,000 homes throughout the area. They'll include everything from expansive estates with remarkable views, to traditional homes based on Folsom's most admired neighborhoods. Moreover, residential developments will cater to people of various income levels.

Schools
Before development of Folsom Ranch is complete, the greater area will have its third public high school and third public middle school, not to mention five more elementary schools. All are state funded with general obligation funds, meaning zero cost to existing residents.

Independent Water Supply
During discussions of how to develop this area, water usage was a sticky issue. Thankfully, it resolved in the best way possible, where Folsom residents experience no impact to their existing water supply. Landowners will foot the entire bill for bringing water to the southern portion of Folsom.

Progressive Transportation
With planned projects such as a limited-access road along Highway 50 and rapid bus transit, residents need not worry about out of control traffic congestion. Additionally, they'll have the option of getting around without the need to drive.

Folsom Ranch In the Media

10,000 new homes are coming to ‘desirable’ part of the Sacramento region

Construction set to begin in South of 50 project

South of 50 Project plans

David Storer Interview- City Planning Director From 1994 to 2002

Your Folsom Local Experts

Folsom Ranch homes won't be available for some time to come, as development is in the beginning stages. However, interested homebuyers have a lot of appealing alternatives to choose from. These include Folsom neighborhoods like American River Canyon, Broadstone, and Briggs Ranch, and more.

If you have questions about the Folsom Ranch development, or existing neighborhoods nearby, contact us at (916) 517-2453. We would love to help you find the perfect neighborhood! 

 

Posted in Community, Folsom
Oct. 11, 2014

Shop Your Heart Out at Quarry Ponds

A great attraction close to Granite Bay homes is the Quarry Ponds Town Center on Douglas Boulevard. A beautiful, well designed area packed with restaurants, boutiques, stores, events, fitness centers and more! This town center has all you need in one place.

Visit one of the six restaurants available on a night out, or grab your daily cup of coffee at Peet’s Coffee and Tea. Or add something new and different to your typical routine, like tango dance lessons under the canopy between Source and Capitol Cellars every Tuesday at 6pm. 

An evening out is well spent here at the Quarry Ponds as you can go shopping, take your annual family pictures, get your hair done with top-of-the-line stylists and products, workout at the fitness center, buy that special someone a gift from JD’s Gray Jewelry, or even head down to the bar.

Join in on the fun and spend your Friday night visiting the Quarry Ponds Town Center.

 

Oct. 10, 2014

El Dorado County Historical Museum: Their Best Kept Secret

Once a Gold Rush town, El Dorado County holds the El Dorado County Historical Museum that takes you on a journey through history with several exhibits and artifacts.

Artifacts from the Maidu, Washie and Miwok tribes are present, located in this county before and after the Gold Rush. Several of their woven baskets and grinding rocks are on display, along with others that will show how they lived and survived in this area.

Tools and equipment (like gold pans and stamp mills) used during the Gold Rush are available to view as well as a rare wheelbarrow from John Studebaker. Guests can take a train ride through the gorgeous scenery as well!

As gold became harder to find in the area, the town needed to find new ways to make a living and survive. So workers traded in their gold pans and began to cultivate vineyards, farms, fruit orchards, and ranches. The town slowly began to evolve into the wonderful community we now know.

Learn the details of this and so much more in this by visiting the museum. You can take docent-led tours that will give you in-depth knowledge and stories about the artifacts you see. You can also look up ancestors to learn about your own family history.

The museum is a great place to spend an afternoon near El Dorado homes. Come take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn all about the history of this beautiful area. 

 

Oct. 9, 2014

Visit Granite Bay's Gorgeous Golf Club

Owning Granite Bay real estate is even better with the spectacular addition of The Granite Bay Golf Club. Opened in 1994, this club outdoes itself in its gorgeous architecture, decor, attentive care to its golfers, and its many services and events. Its luxurious design has been honored with several awards for greenery, design, and its clubhouse.

Golfers will enjoy an 18 hole course with a driving range and putting green, with a fully stocked pro golfers shop and lockers. There is also the pub, diners, and beautiful restaurants to enjoy.

Private events are also held here, and it is an absolutely amazing place for a wedding. The bride and groom can personalize their big day every step of the way, whether a luxurious and grand event with 200 people, or a more personal and casual event with 50 people. We think your dreams will come true in this beautiful location.

Several activities are available year round. Classes include yoga, cooking, personal training, and more. Check the calendar for ongoing events as well as new classes.

Kids also have several fun opportunities available. There are kids golfing classes and special events like the annual Kids Halloween Party. The Granite Bay Golf Club celebrates and holds special events with all holidays for its members to enjoy and celebrate together in this community.

Visit the Granite Bay Golf Club and see its beauty for yourself.