The sounds of development are all too familiar in the Clovis subdivisions of Loma Vista and Harlan Ranch. For Clovis city leaders it's the sound of excitement.
"It was a very busy and exciting year for Clovis," Clovis City Manager Rob Woolley said.
In 2013, 854 permits were issued. That is an extreme difference from 2012, which saw only 368 permits, and in 2011 only 334 issued were issued.
"Everybody is feeling better about the economy now especially in the Clovis Community," Woolley said.
Builders are dividing up the work between 11 new tracks. Woolley said the growth extends to business and industrial spaces its proof there's new jobs and a place for employees to call home.
"Clovis is growing and is a popular destination for people moving up and new families moving into Clovis," Woolley said.
But all of the new buyers have to abide by new loan regulations.
"You want a mortgage? You're gonna have to qualify and qualify for what you can afford," Loan Officer Paul Salazar said.
Salazar said the mortgage crisis changed the way loans are lent.
"There's no more liar loans, stated income loans- you've got to show full documentation, pay stubs, bank statements, things to qualify your down payment with," Salazar said.
Salazar said some buyers are surprised by the new regulations. But they are in place to prevent another crisis and protect lenders from deception. He also said it helps the buyer beware.
"And the borrower is not a prisoner in his own home trying to make that payment," Salazar said.
Salazar believes now is the time to buy a house, and if you ask him, the City of Clovis the place to do so can be found in the gateway to the Sierra.
