Frequently Asked Questions

As of 2026, the Wasatch Front market has shifted toward a more balanced landscape. Inventory has increased compared to the pandemic-era lows, giving buyers more options and negotiating power. Mortgage rates have settled in the mid-to-high 6% range. Home prices remain stable in most communities, with moderate appreciation in high-demand areas like Lehi, Eagle Mountain, and Saratoga Springs. Sellers still benefit from strong equity gains accumulated over the past several years, and well-priced homes continue to move within the first two to three weeks.

We serve 17 cities across Utah County and Salt Lake County on the Wasatch Front: Eagle Mountain, Saratoga Springs, Lehi, Vineyard, American Fork, Highland, Cedar Hills, Pleasant Grove, Alpine, Lindon, Orem, Bluffdale, Draper, Riverton, Herriman, South Jordan, and Sandy. Our deepest expertise is in Utah County and western Salt Lake County, where we live and work every day.

Median home prices on the Wasatch Front vary significantly by community. As of early 2026, prices range from approximately $485,000 in Vineyard and Eagle Mountain to around $975,000 in Alpine. Most communities along the I-15 corridor in Utah County fall in the $525,000 to $650,000 range. We provide detailed comparative market analysis for every client so you have accurate, hyperlocal pricing data for your specific neighborhood.

For buyers, the process from first search to closing typically takes 30 to 60 days once you have found a home, though the search phase varies. For sellers, properly priced homes on the Wasatch Front typically receive offers within the first two weeks, with the full listing-to-close timeline averaging 30 to 45 days. Every situation is unique, and we provide realistic timeline estimates based on current market conditions in your area.

Three things set us apart. First, our Power Duo model: you get two professionals -- Cory handling strategy and negotiations, and Jenni managing transaction coordination and deadlines -- for the same cost as a single agent. Second, our Salisbury Satisfaction Guarantee means no lock-in contracts; you can walk away before offer acceptance with zero penalties. Third, our hyperlocal expertise across 17 Wasatch Front communities, built over 12+ years and 100+ families served, means you get advice based on real data, not national algorithms.

In most transactions, buyers pay $0 for representation. The seller typically covers the buyer agent's commission as part of the listing agreement. You receive our full service -- market analysis, home tours, negotiations, contract management, and transaction coordination -- at no direct cost. We always disclose exactly how compensation works before you commit to anything.

Utah offers several programs that can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. S.B. 240 provides up to $20,000 for qualifying first-time buyers. The Utah Housing Corporation (UHC) DPA offers 4-6% of the loan amount for down payment and closing costs. Veterans and active-duty military may qualify for the Utah Veterans Home Grant of $2,500, stackable with VA loan benefits. Law enforcement officers can access up to $25,000 through the Law Enforcement Home Grant. Many of these programs are stackable, meaning you could qualify for more than one. We check every program for every buyer client.

Both have advantages. Banks offer the convenience of an existing relationship and sometimes portfolio loan products. Mortgage brokers shop across multiple lenders to find the best rate and terms for your situation, which often results in better deals for the borrower. In our experience, a good mortgage broker tends to provide more competitive rates and more flexibility. We work with trusted professionals in both categories and can connect you with the right fit based on your specific financial picture.

Yes, and this is where having representation matters most. The builder's sales agent works for the builder, not you. Their job is to maximize the builder's profit. We negotiate upgrades, lot premiums, rate buy-downs, design center credits, and closing cost contributions that buyers typically miss when walking in unrepresented. Since the commission is already built into the home price, it costs you nothing extra to have your own agent in your corner.

Once your offer is accepted, the clock starts on several important milestones. Within the first 7 to 14 days, we schedule a home inspection to identify any issues. The appraisal is ordered by your lender to confirm the home's value. During this period, you finalize your loan details and provide any remaining documentation to your lender. Jenni coordinates every deadline, document, and third party involved. Approximately 3 days before closing, you do a final walkthrough to confirm the home is in the agreed-upon condition. On closing day, you sign the paperwork, receive your keys, and officially become a homeowner.

It depends on your budget, commute, and lifestyle preferences. Utah County generally offers more new construction, slightly lower price points in communities like Eagle Mountain and Vineyard, and a family-oriented suburban feel. Salt Lake County offers closer proximity to downtown employers, more established neighborhoods, and greater access to dining, entertainment, and cultural amenities. Communities like Herriman, South Jordan, and Draper straddle the line nicely. We help you weigh all the factors -- price, commute time, schools, future appreciation, and quality of life -- so you make the best decision for your family.

This is the number one question we hear, and it is a smart one to ask. The answer lies in what we call the Equity Transfer Strategy. Your home has likely appreciated significantly since you purchased it. That accumulated equity can be applied as a larger down payment on your next home, which reduces your new loan amount and monthly payment -- often offsetting much of the rate increase. For example, if you bought at $350,000 with a 3% rate and your home is now worth $500,000, that $150,000 in equity dramatically reduces what you need to finance. We run your specific numbers and show you the real comparison. If selling doesn't make financial sense, we will be the first to tell you.

Typical selling costs run approximately 6% of the sale price, which covers both agent commissions, title fees, and closing costs. One advantage of selling in Utah is that there is no transfer tax, saving you money compared to many other states. Before you list, we provide a detailed net sheet that shows every line-item cost and exactly what you will walk away with. No surprises at the closing table.

If you have lived in your home as your primary residence for at least 2 of the last 5 years, you qualify for the capital gains exclusion: $250,000 for single filers and $500,000 for married couples filing jointly. This means most homeowners on the Wasatch Front will owe zero capital gains tax on their sale. If your gains exceed these thresholds or your situation is more complex, we recommend consulting with a tax professional. We are happy to connect you with one.

New construction is your biggest competition as a seller. Buyers are drawn to model homes with upgrades, clean finishes, and that new-home smell. Our Beat the Builders marketing strategy positions your resale home to compete and win. We highlight your advantages -- established neighborhoods, mature landscaping, larger lots, proven build quality, and move-in readiness -- while using professional photography, strategic staging advice, and targeted digital advertising. The goal is to position your home as the smart alternative to overpriced base-model new builds.

Zillow Zestimates and Redfin estimates are automated valuations based on algorithms and public data. They are typically off by 5 to 15 percent, and sometimes more in areas with diverse housing stock or rapid price changes. They cannot account for condition, upgrades, lot position, or hyperlocal trends the way a human expert can. A comparative market analysis (CMA) from a local agent who knows your specific neighborhood will always be more accurate. We provide free CMAs for any homeowner considering a sale.

The Power Duo model means you get two dedicated professionals for the price of one. Cory Salisbury handles all client-facing strategy -- market analysis, home tours, offer writing, negotiations, and pricing. Jenni Salisbury manages transaction coordination -- deadlines, documents, lender communication, inspector scheduling, and closing logistics. This division of labor means nothing falls through the cracks and you always have someone focused on your deal.

Our Satisfaction Guarantee is simple: we do not use lock-in contracts to keep you. At any point before offer acceptance, if you feel we are not the right fit, you can fire us. No penalties, no guilt trips, no awkward conversations. We believe you should stay because we are delivering results, not because a piece of paper says you have to.

Text messages receive a response within 10 minutes during business hours. Phone calls are answered live whenever possible; if we miss your call, we return it the same day. Emails are responded to within 24 hours. During active transactions, response times are even faster because we understand that timing can make or break a deal.

Buyer clients receive full representation at no direct cost, including market analysis, home tours, offer negotiation, and contract management. You also receive a complimentary 1-year home warranty at closing, navigation of all applicable Utah assistance programs and grants, and Jenni's dedicated transaction coordination to keep every deadline on track. Our goal is to make the process as smooth and financially advantageous as possible.

Seller clients receive a transparent net sheet before listing so you know your bottom line upfront, a comprehensive pricing strategy based on real comparable data, professional marketing including photography and targeted advertising, our Beat the Builders competitive positioning against new construction, and Jenni's full transaction coordination through closing. Every step is designed to maximize your sale price and minimize your stress.

Absolutely. Many of our clients started with a single question months -- sometimes a year or more -- before they were ready to make a move. Early conversations are completely free and carry no obligation. We can answer market questions, run preliminary numbers, connect you with a lender for pre-approval, or simply help you think through your options. When the timing is right, we will be here.