Movers in Washoe Valley

Washoe Valley is the lake valley between Reno and Carson City, at about 5,098 feet, and the numbers above show a well-established owner community: 93 percent owners, 86 percent single-family and a median age near 59. Its larger lots and winds are the two things to plan for.

A high-income, owner-occupied valley

The median home value in Washoe Valley is about $610,000 and the median home was built in 1979. Houses here have acreage, barns, workshops and horse gear. Because only about 7 percent of households rent, there are few apartment moves, and nearly every job includes a garage and outbuildings. The itemized estimate walks them all.

Median age near 59 means retirement downsizing moves are common; see senior moving in Washoe Valley.

Wind and the drive

The route runs 19.9 miles from Sparks, with 7 miles on I-580 and 8 on US 395 Alternate, about 31 minutes in free flow. The valley is known for strong afternoon winds, called the Washoe Zephyr, so crews load tall furniture with care and prefer morning starts; the National Weather Service in Reno posts wind advisories.

The move stays in Nevada, under O'Brien's Nevada authority.

Winter, elevation and long lanes

Snow falls more here than in Sparks and sticks on shaded lanes. Many properties have long private driveways. Tell the estimator the length and surface. Where the truck cannot go, the crew stages at the road. For the cold-weather checklist, see moving in winter in the Sierra.

Specialty items

Larger lots often mean hot tubs, pool tables, pianos and wine collections. O'Brien's moves hot tubs, pianos and organs and wine cellars. White-glove delivery places new furniture.

Preparing a larger property

Walk the property with a list: shed contents, ladders, patio sets, garden tools, a workbench, anything stored in a barn. Items you plan to sell, donate or keep should be separated before the estimator arrives. The garage and tools packing guide helps with sorting, and the in-home visit brings 10 free heavy-duty boxes.