Rent to Own Homes in Sparks

With approximately 90,000 people as of the 2010 census, Sparks has grown tremendously over the years. It's now home to the Nugget Casino Resort and many popular attractions along Sparks Boulevard. Residents are served by the Washoe County School District, which includes some popular public schools like Sparks High School. The city also holds a variety of community events throughout the year, including the annual rib cook-off.

Located on the western edge of Nevada just four miles from downtown Reno, this city offers nonstop adventure and excitement for those interested in living an active lifestyle. Sparks Marina Park offers a variety of water sports, including windsurfing, sailing, scuba diving and boating. Swimming and fishing are also popular activities in the park, and there are walking paths suitable for daily exercise. With playgrounds, volleyball courts and a dog park, this is one of the central areas where the Sparks community comes together.

Buying a Home in Sparks

The median sales price for homes in Sparks is around $300,000, but the median sales price is often up to $20,000 lower than that figure. The median sales price per square foot is around $160, but you can find homes that are more affordable in select neighborhoods. There are also some upscale homes that sell for much more in the most desirable neighborhoods. It's important to know your maximum spending limit when maneuvering a market with some amazing homes for sale.

If you're concerned about living near the best schools in Sparks, consider moving into the Spanish Springs High School area. This is the best ranked high school in the city, and most of the elementary and middle schools are highly ranked.

Popular Neighborhoods in Sparks

If you're interested in living near the best public schools in Sparks and need a family-friendly community, look to the Spanish Springs neighborhood off Los Altos and Sparks Boulevard. This area is close to the top-ranking schools as well as a variety of restaurants and shopping centers. It's also a quiet neighborhood with low crime rates. If you can afford to spend more on your home or need a house with four or five bedrooms, look to the Caughlin Ranch area or near the southern tip of Hunter Lake. While prices are higher in those areas, you'll find more upscale homes for sale.

Buying vs. Rent to Own Homes

Rent-to-own homes have revolutionized the way Americans purchase property. Consumers who would otherwise take years to qualify for a home loan are now able to move into their future homes right away. They pay rent each month until they're ready to take out a mortgage loan or pay for the home in cash. While the actual home-buying process may take more time, it feels like less time to renters who get to move into their new homes before they actually secure financing. If you need some time to save up a down payment or improve your credit so that you qualify for a reasonable interest rate, Sparks rent-to-own homes may serve you well.

Cost of Living in Sparks

The overall cost of living in Sparks can go 5-10 percent higher than the national average at times, but it mostly stays within a reasonable range of that average. While housing prices are often slightly higher than the national average, the cost of utilities can drop 20 percent or more below average. Most goods and services sell for average prices, so it's possible to live in Sparks even with a modest budget.

Summary

Located less than 10 miles from Reno, Nevada, the city of Sparks offers all the charm of a small town with the excitement of a much larger city. Residents enjoy a long list of water sports at Sparks Marina Park, and they have access to casinos and other nightlife establishments. With quality public schools convenient to most residential areas and some upscale neighborhoods with larger homes, this is a versatile community that easily accommodates families as well as singles and professionals. The reasonable cost of living is also an attraction for many residents.