Ceil the Deal

10 Housing Markets Getting the Most Web Traffic

2012-01-20T09:58:00.000-08:00

10 Housing Markets Getting the Most Web Traffic

Phoenix foreclosures falling?

2012-01-20T04:57:00.001-08:00

Phoenix foreclosures fall in 2011http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/news/2012/01/18/phoenix-foreclosures-existing-home.html

Outlet mall coming to East Valley!

2012-01-19T14:11:00.001-08:00

Outlet mall coming to East Valley next to Gila River casinohttp://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/morning_call/2012/01/outlet-mall-coming-to-east-valley-next.html

Housing Shortage by Spring?

2012-01-18T10:35:00.001-08:00

Is housing glut over? Experts predict housing shortage by spring - Real estate experts predict the Valley’s years-long housing glut is reaching its end and, as early as this spring, could stun home buyers by transforming into a shortage. The crunch is expected to be more pronounced in the East Valley, where some subdivisions are approaching build-out and other builders are raising prices. About 58,000 homes were on the market by late 2007. The long-term average is about 33,000 homes listed at any given time. That’s down to 25,000 now or 19,000 when accounting for homes that have deals pending. Read article:http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/local/mesa/article_b7ed8380-4164-11e1-9ac3-0019bb2963f4.html

Relying on a Real Estate Agent now more than ever

2012-01-17T10:18:00.001-08:00

Relying On An Agent - Sharp increase from a decade ago - The latest NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers showed a growing trend among recent buyers. The latest figures show that 89% of buyers purchased their home with the help of a real estate or broker. This is a sharp increase from a decade ago in 2001, when only 69% of buyers enlisted the help of an agent or broker. Today's market presents challenges that simply weren't present or didn't dominate the market a decade ago, such as short sales and foreclosures. Read article:http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20120117_youragent.htm

Purchasing a home in AZ

2012-01-15T12:42:00.000-08:00

Purchasing Your New Home in AZ

Be smart! Find a licensed REALTOR to work with, someone familiar with the area and dedicated to understanding your needs.

2. Financing – Speak to alender to know what type of loan you qualify for.

Lender will provide your REALTORwith an LSR (Loan Status Report) necessary in AZ to submit with any offer.

*If paying cash – Obtain verification letter of “Proof of Funds”from your bank to be included with offer.

Find your home - Be prepared with a list of “must haves” and “wants” for your REALTOR; be prepared to include Earnest Money deposit at this time. The amount will be different on each home, approx $1000.00 to 10% of purchase price.

4. Offer submitted byREALTOR, counter negotiating may be necessary.

Once offer is accepted by both parties you are now under contract, there will be a home inspection period. (normal time period for inspections is 10 days) Inspection prices will differ be prepared to spend about $400 at this time out of pocket for basic home and termite inspections.

Open Escrow with a title company. Your REALTOR will open escrow. Escrow is a third party process that will handle all monies through a title company that will search for clear title the property. (Escrow average is 30-60 days)

After Inspection – Both parties agree to improvements needed, unless a foreclosure, most banks will not fix anything. AS-IS on foreclosures. More negotiating by your REALTOR may be necessary.

Escrow period – This time period may seem quiet to you, but lender/underwriters, REALTOR, the title company and contractors are working on your behalf.

Closing – The title company will make arrangements for you to sign all documents necessary for closing, either by mail or in person. This is when you will transfer funds necessary to purchase. Title will now disperse all funds and send docs to County Recorder to be processed.

Possession – Once docs are recorded your REALTOR will make arrangements for you to pick up keys and move into your new home!

Ceil Mills

623-308-7291

Working hard to “CEIL the DEAL”

Realty Times - Top 10 Tips for Sellers

2012-01-12T07:18:00.000-08:00

Realty Times - Top 10 Tips for Sellers

RE/MAX: 5 Predictions for Housing in 2012

2012-01-10T10:22:00.000-08:00

RE/MAX: 5 Predictions for Housing in 2012

Midtown Phoenix Patio Home listed at 215k

2012-01-10T10:15:00.000-08:00

Call me for details! New to market.

Phoenix Foreclosure Rates Continue to Fall

2012-01-06T12:10:00.001-08:00

http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/news/2012/01/05/phoenix-foreclosure-rate-continues-to.html

ipad shortcuts video

2012-01-05T06:57:00.000-08:00

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/upgrade-your-life/time-saving-touchscreen-secrets-141803620.html

Great video with short cuts for anyone who may have an ipad!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T09:04:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all my friends and family! May this year bring happiness, health and lots of love to you all! This is the time of year when everyone makes resolutions to improve their lives, so whatever yours is.....weight loss, reading more, making contact with old friends, a new job......enjoy the adventure of getting to your goal! If any of those goals include real estate decisions, I'll be glad to help!

New Stat, AZ housing market may have hit bottom?

2011-12-01T09:52:00.000-08:00

New stats indicate Arizona's housing market may have hit bottom - East Valley Tribune: Arizona

By Howard Fischer, Capitol Media Services | Posted: Tuesday, November 29, 2011 12:31 pm
It may be just a statistical blip.
But there are indications that the state's housing market may finally have hit bottom.
On the surface, the new figures Tuesday from the Federal Housing Finance Agency are not good, showing the value of the average home in the state slid another 1.5 percent in the last quarter. That brings the year-over-year decrease to 12 percent.
That means a home valued at $200,000 just a year ago is now worth $24,000 less.
Only Nevada fared worse on an annual basis, with a 12.3 percent decline.
The same trend is playing out even longer term: The typical Arizona home is now valued at just half of what it was five years earlier.
But there are some bright spots in the numbers.
A few of the state's metro areas actually managed to move into the positive range in the last quarter. And even where the decline continues, the quarter-over-quarter figures are not as bad as they were three months earlier.
"There actually is some good news here," said Marshall Vest, economist at the Eller College of Management at the University of Arizona.
He particularly cited the increase for the metro Phoenix area which includes both Maricopa and Pinal counties. While small - just 2.2 percent over the prior quarter - he said it bucks what has been a multi-year trend of declines.
Still, Vest is not ready to proclaim that the worst is definitely over.
"We're going to need another quarter or two of data before we can say this index has bottomed," he said. "But it's possible now that the second quarter of 2011 was the bottom - cross your fingers."
On an annual basis, though, the figures still look bleak, even on a local level.
In the agency's analysis of 306 metropolitan areas, the Phoenix area was the sixth worst in the country in terms of year-over-year declines. But Yuma County was just one spot below that, and Pima County just below Yuma.
Jay Butler, professor emeritus at the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University, said the figures are a reflection of what is moving in the market. At the moment, he said, that is being driven largely by people looking for cheap, investment-oriented properties as well as foreclosures.
"Investors are looking for a ‘flip' or inexpensive rentals," Butler said. "So they're looking for the deal."
What's causing the numbers to improve - or at least not decline as rapidly - is a simple question of what's left to buy.
"They've simply run out of the really cheap stuff and you're moving up to slightly cheap stuff," Butler said.
But Butler said that some investors may also realize that if they hope to get some appreciation in their investment they are going to have to make purchases in "potentially more dynamic areas" of communities, meaning markets that eventually will support traditional homeowners.
Tom Rex, an economics professor at the W.P. Carey School, said reducing the number of foreclosures will help the market turn around.
"But even then, you're still going to have some discrepancy between supply and demand," he explained.
"We're just not seeing much population growth now because we aren't seeing a whole lot of job growth," Rex continued. And there are plenty of Arizonans ready to pounce on the ones that develop, meaning there will be no new demand for people to move here to fill those jobs - and buy homes once they get here.
Vest said he found one other reason to be optimistic.
He said home values in southern California also appear to be recovering. Vest said he sees this as a "good leading indicator" of what will happen in Arizona.

Maricopa County Residential Foreclosure Data

2011-11-29T07:26:00.001-08:00

Maricopa County Residential Foreclosure Data 11/01/11Maricopa County Residential Foreclosure Data 11/01/11

Phoenix Diversity

2011-11-21T07:46:00.000-08:00

Phoenix, Arizona, what a great city to live in! Within a few minutes you can go from the downtown high rise hustle/bustle to the outer suburbs with a rural atmosphere, all under the beautiful big sky umbrella of sunshine! Along the freeways and streets you will discover the different neighborhoods with each having its own unique and charming qualities. Along with the plethora of chain restaurants you can experience the smaller owned coffee shops, cafes and eateries.

If you are a native, how long has it been since you drove to the top of South Mountain for an incredible view of our city? If you live here, take some time and see the city through the eyes of a tourist. Visit the museums, art festivals, theatres, maybe take a drive up through Cave Creek and Carefree. Perhaps a weekend stay-cation at one of our wonderful resorts? It's that most wonderful time of year here in The Valley of The Sun! Get out and enjoy!

When is a Real Estate Agent a REALTOR?

2011-09-19T16:02:00.000-07:00

When Is a Real Estate Agent a REALTOR®?
A real estate agent is a REALTOR® when he or she becomes a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, The Voice for Real Estate®, the world's largest professional association. The term "REALTOR®" is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and abides by its strict Code of Ethics.

Founded in 1908, NAR has grown from its original nucleus of 120 members to more than 1 million today. NAR is composed of REALTORS® who are involved in residential and commercial real estate as brokers, salespeople, property managers, appraisers, counselors, and others who are engaged in all aspects of the real estate industry.

Members belong to one or more of 1,700 local associations/boards and 54 state and territory associations of REALTORS® and can join one of our many institutes, societies, and councils. Additionally, NAR offers members the opportunity to be active in our appraisal and international real estate specialty sections. REALTORS® are pledged to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.

Working for America's property owners, the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® provides a facility for professional development, research, and exchange of information among its members.

Check out the Public Awareness Campaign television and radio spots that encourage consumers to rely on the expertise and integrity of REALTORS®.

The NAR advertising campaign runs February through November on network and cable television and network and satellite radio, helping consumers understand the real value of working with REALTORS®. From their voluntary adherence to a Code of Ethics to their incomparable knowledge of real estate processes, REALTORS® are the experts of residential and commercial property transactions.

Copyright NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Metro Phoenix August update

2011-09-10T10:30:00.000-07:00

There were 8,717 sales of residential properties in the Phoenix Metro
Area in August, an increase 4% over July and 18% over August 2010,
according to the Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service. Total
inventory decreased again in for the seventh consecutive month to
26,983, or 2% below the prior month. The median sale price of $109,900
and the average sale price of $155,000 in August have remained fairly
flat for the last 12 months. Multiple offers (often 10+) above asking
price is the norm for homes priced below the mid-range and even homes
below $300,000.

Be Prepared!

2011-09-09T09:29:00.001-07:00

If you are currently thinking of purchasing a property in Arizona whether a primary or secondary residence, do yourself this favor....before contacting a REALTOR to show you properties you will need to know what you qualify for financially.

Speak to a bank or mortgage lender to learn what you will be able to afford. If paying cash, you will need to show a "Proof of Funds" from your bank. Without either a Proof of Funds or Loan Status Report from a lender no seller will take you seriously.

So do the preliminary steps necessary so that when you find the ideal property you will be able to submit an offer immediately!

Current inventory is low, so just like the Boy/Girl Scouts.....be prepared!

Single Women a Rising Force in the Housing Market

2011-07-14T15:53:00.000-07:00

Single Women a Rising Force in the Housing Market
Unmarried women continue to make up a growing segment of home buyers and are buying homes in record numbers: Last year, they composed 20 percent of all buyers last year, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. Single men accounted for 12 percent.

The Joint Center for Housing Studies says the three main reasons single women are purchasing homes are:

▪ They have a strong desire to nest (the top-ranked reason).
▪ They want to relocate closer to a job or family.
▪ They need more space.

In capturing this growing segment of female buyers, builders are reflecting more female tastes in the design of homes. For example, in new houses, builders are adding security features, gourmet kitchens, and maintenance-free yards to appeal more to the single woman buyer.

Housing experts say that single women are purchasing homes at various stages in their lives — some are new college grads and plan to one day get married while others may be divorced or just want to set up roots in their own place.

Source: “Singles Dive Into the Real Estate Market,” SecondAct/MSN (July 12, 2011)

Things are heatin up!

2011-06-13T20:32:00.000-07:00

It's Arizona, it's June, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to know the temperatures are heating up and so is our housing market. Our inventory is low, which means multiple offers on properties. Whatever the type of home you are looking for, if you find a clean property at a good price, odds are someone else will want it too. Don't waste months of your time and your agents time by making low ball offers that don't stand a chance, be serious and know what you want but also be open to suggestions from your agent. Frustrations can set in if time passes and you don't seem to find what you want, stay with it, keep on looking, if it's not on the market perhaps look for a new build. Builders are offering some great incentives for buyers right now so keep your options open!

Dream Home in AZ

2011-06-11T12:11:00.000-07:00

To potential out of state (country) buyers. When you are looking for your dream home here in Arizona, don't limit yourself when searching. Be open to suggestions, for instance, if you are looking for a home with a heated pool in the community which can be sometimes hard to find.......perhaps a hot tub/jacuzzi/spa in your own back yard is a possibility for you! Then you have hot water in winter, and as the season changes...cool water in summer!

The great state of Arizona

2011-05-28T22:15:00.000-07:00

I love my state! From the cactus to the pine trees, this state pretty much covers all geographic types and climates. Love learning about all the ghost towns and wild west stories. Maybe that is why I enjoy being a Realtor so much. Captive audiences while showing and telling about AZ! Poor souls!

More Banks Pay to Fix Up Foreclosures for Resale

2011-03-16T12:01:00.000-07:00

More banks are investing thousands of dollars to fix up foreclosures in trying to spur sales and appeal to a broader buying pool. Banks have inherited plenty of foreclosed homes that have everything from water damage, mold, broken windows, and missing plumbing fixtures.

But while banks used to be hesitant to invest much money in fixing up these homes, more real estate pros say that banks are heeding their suggestions for repairs and seeing the benefits of how a little investment can make these properties more sellable. As such, they are paying for new paint and carpet, refinishing damaged floors, replacing old windows, and repairing leaky roofs.

They hope to extend the foreclosed homes’ appeal past traditional investors and professional rehabbers. For example, home buyer would have trouble securing a mortgage on homes that lenders deem “uninhabitable” because of needed repairs.

The banks interest in fixing up these properties also can help the overall real estate market because the foreclosed properties can sell at a higher price.

Real estate agents say they are making more suggestions to banks on how to spruce up the properties. First, they identify the target customer for a property. For example, if the home will likely appeal to owner-occupant, agents may recommend fixes such as paint to $25,000 kitchen remodel.

Source: “Banks Fixing Up Foreclosures to Spur Sales; Strategy Aims to Give Them Broader Appeal, Reduce Big Inventory,” The Chicago Tribune (March 13, 2011)

Builders Promote New Homes vs. Foreclosures

2011-03-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

Builders across the country are tweaking their marketing to make a point that foreclosures aren’t always the good deals everyone thinks they are and can come with plenty of pitfalls if buyers aren’t careful.

Builders are warning buyers to be careful before they buy a foreclosure, which they say often come with unknown repairs, limited selection, and headaches in working with banks.

New-home sales have suffered as the industry has faced five consecutive years of declines after reaching record highs the five previous years. The high number of foreclosures sitting on the market are driving new construction to a halt in some places.

That’s why builders like Lennar Corp. are trying to spread the message to buyers that purchasing a foreclosure might not be such a good deal. On the home builder’s Web site, they are featuring a special page devoted to “Buying a New Home vs. a Foreclosed Home,” which outlines the benefits of new construction, such as home warranties, energy efficiency, and customized options.

Likewise, Shea Homes and Phoenix-area builder Fulton Homes are promoting new homes with a "foreclosure cost calculator" on their Web sites, which lets customers calculate potential costs.

"There are hundreds of people who purchased homes from us that have been lured in by low prices on foreclosures, have tried to purchase those homes and have been outbid by investors," says Ken Peterson, Shea's vice president of sales and marketing. "Or, they waited months to get an answer back on `can I get this short sale, can I get this foreclosure,' only to discover that they didn't get that home."

Source: "Homebuilders Try to Draw in Buyers by Pointing Out Pitfalls and Risks of Buying Foreclosures," The Associated Press (March 5, 2011)

Happy 99th Birthday Arizona!

2011-02-14T06:26:00.000-08:00

In honor of Arizona's birthday this website will provide some fun filled facts of our great state!

http://arizonainformation.info/fun-facts.htm

Top 10 Reasons Phoenix will Prosper in 2011

2011-02-01T12:32:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of the Mortgage Advantage

Top Ten Reasons Phoenix Will Prosper

Most of us begin the day with our favorite morning beverage and tune in to our very own live-in horror story: The U. S. Economy.

Phoenix has withstood additional blows with negative press, but all in all 2010 showed small signs of recovery for our great state.

2011 will be even better, here are the top ten reasons Phoenix will have a prosperous 2011:

10. Phoenix's unemployment rate dropped below the National average to 8.5% in December, 2010 and is expected to slowly decline. Technology and resort-leisure jobs are still the go-to jobs in Arizona, unless you open a pawnshop.

9. Arizonan's love to shop. Wal-Mart is Arizona's largest employer employing over 30,000 people.

8. Arizona is all grown up by implementing their very own stock index called The L&D Arizona Composite Index. It is compiled of companies headquartered in Arizona and publicly traded on the NYSE and NASDAQ.

7. We are not depending on the 5 C's that have defined our state for decades: Citrus, Cattle, Cotton, Copper, and Climate. History Lesson: All five are incorporated on our state symbol.

6. Green is the word! Solar and Algae are the buzz words for fuel sources in the 21st Century. Both industries are continuing to anchor themselves in our state. If oil prices continue to rise, and stay high, we may finally be forced to mass-produce cleaner and more effective alternatives to our oil addiction. Segway's are not the answer if you wear high heels and worry about your toupee.

5. China's inflation may be the U.S.'s windfall: the cost of our goods will become competitive. The Chinese don't want to buy goods labeled "made in China."

4. Our border state geography is a benefit for legal exports and imports from Mexico, Arizona's largest trading partner. According to azcentral.com, exports to Mexico topped $5.9 billion and imports $5.2 billion in 2008. That is a lot of Chihuahuas.

3. The Phoenix metro-plex offers the most affordable housing in the U. S. With rock bottom prices and low interest rates (stop whining, no, they're not at 4% but still pretty darn low) make for an unbeatable combination. Also, families who lost their homes in 2007 and 2008 may be able to re-enter the mortgage market this year.

2. We have the Grand Canyon. Air traffic through Sky Harbor increased in 2010 over 2009.

1. Arizona is not Green Bay or Pittsburg. With the brutal winter in many parts of the U.S. and Canada, pictures of our sunshine will continue to entice people to visit and stay awhile.

No matter what the circumstances of our economy, it will be up to us to energize 2011 and help make it a great year.

Consumer Confidence Rises in January

2011-02-01T09:38:00.000-08:00

Consumer Confidence Rises in January - Anticipation of improved conditions in business and the job market caused consumer confidence to inch up in January. Lynn Franco, Director of The Conference Board Consumer Research Center, reports that “consumers have begun the year in better spirits. As a result, the Index is now near levels not seen since last spring (May 2010, Index 62.7). Consumers rated business and labor market conditions more favorably and expressed greater confidence that the economy will continue to expand and generate more jobs in the months ahead. Income expectations are also more positive. Although pessimists still outnumber optimists, the gap has narrowed.” Read article:
http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20110201_confidence.htm

You DO need a REALTOR!

2011-01-28T10:01:00.000-08:00

Google to Drop Real Estate Listings - Google announced that it will drop real estate listings that real estate professionals upload to its classified site Google Base, as well as any for-sale, foreclosure, or rental properties through its search function on Google Maps. Google officials say they decided to stop featuring the real estate listings because of low usage. Google Base also is being replaced by Google Shopping APIs, which will not support real estate listings. Read article:
http://www.realtor.org/RMODaily.nsf/pages/News2011012702

2011 Phoenix housing market predictions

2011-01-27T20:52:00.000-08:00

ASU: Phoenix housing market could rise in 2011 - Arizona State University Professor Karl Guntermann predicts that the Phoenix-area housing market will improve in 2011. “Given the pattern that is emerging, it is likely declines will continue for at least the next several months. However, with the economy gradually recovering, employment improving and the foreclosure problem apparently past its peak, odds are good 2011 will be a transition year in the Phoenix-area housing market,” Guntermann said. Read article:
http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/news/2011/01/26/asu-housing-market-could-rise-in-2011.html

Friends don't let friends rent!

2011-01-02T09:29:00.000-08:00

With today's low interest rates and home prices at all time lows......FRIENDS DON'T LET FRIENDS RENT! Some lenders have programs that will gift part of the down payment for you and all that is needed is 1% down from the home buyer. Unbelievable, this makes your down payment to purchase a home sometimes less than you would pay to get into a rental, only now you have the pride of home ownership and the benefits of the tax write off! Remember, Friends Don't let Friends Rent!

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T09:22:00.001-08:00

To all my friends, family and future clients......Happy New Year!
What a fresh new start to a new year, check the date! 1/1/11!
May you all have a blessed year, filled with family, good health, much love and adventure!

Zip Code information

2010-12-10T00:59:00.001-08:00

http://zipskinny.com/

Check out your zipcode you will not believe the information you will find there!

Christmas in the Desert

2010-12-05T15:19:00.000-08:00

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.... Signs of Santa hats on saguaros, palm and mesquite trees wrapped in colored lights, and families in flip flops and shorts searching for the perfect pine at tree lots. Ah yes, Christmas in Arizona, from cactus to pines, sunshine to snow, we have it all. The Christmas spirit is alive and well in the desert. It's not anything that can be pointed to or explained, but it's the feeling of love, family, giving and celebrating the birth of the Christ child. However you choose to celebrate, may Christs' love touch your heart and home this season and through the new year.

Woo Hoo!

2010-10-19T08:38:00.000-07:00

October 19 and the doors are open! AZ is open for Fall visitors! I think it is safe to say the temps are now dropping and should stay that way. I had a wonderful visit with my gal pal from Canada last week. Also a trip to the plant nursery, yup, time to get outdoors and enjoy the amazing state of Arizona!

Fall in AZ

2010-09-27T08:58:00.000-07:00

The calendar says it's fall. The merchandise is the stores say it's fall. Coffee shops are serving their "fall" pumpkin spice drinks......but our weather is still over 105*. Ahhh, life in AZ! I look forward to seeing my out of state and Canadian friends soon!

Is it better to give than to receive?

2010-09-09T09:33:00.001-07:00

Have you ever been blessed by someone doing a simple gesture or act of kindness? These seemingly small deeds may be just the positive note or validation someone needs to make the day special, whether you are the giver OR receiver. Either way hopefully each of us can make a small difference each day.

AZ Real Estate 2010

2010-09-07T10:45:00.001-07:00

What a crazy market we find ourselves in. What has become the low point of many people losing their homes in this economy......creates opportunity for first time home buyers and vacation home buyers. Always looking for a way to make lemonade from the lemons life hands us.

Simple Blessings

2010-07-30T09:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I received a totally unexpected Thank You card from some very appreciative individuals. It was hand made with HAND written notes. Wow. A lost art and a total blessing that I will cherish.

Life

2010-07-16T15:32:00.001-07:00

"Life is not the way you think it should be. It's the way it is.
The way you choose to cope with it is what makes the difference."

(author unknown)

So Summer is here.... officially

2010-06-22T08:32:00.000-07:00

Who really looks at the calendar to tell them that summer has started? Ah yes, June 21st, now it MUST be summer, right?

As a kid the first day of summer was the day after school ended, waking up with nothing but free time, playing with friends, building forts and spending afternoons at the community swimming pool.

As a teen it was pretty much the same thing, first day of no school, summer jobs and hanging with friends after work at the bowling alley or drive in movie. (small town)

As an adult living in the Phoenix area it just means HOT! Summer starts to me in May when the kids get out of school and it's HOT. June brings the real warm up show of temps from the 102* to 110* ish range. Then we wait for the Monsoon to hit when it is HOT but with a wonderful change of late afternoon thunderstorms and evening lightning shows in July. Turning another calendar page we hit August, when it will be HOT with hopefully more storms, temperatures hovering around 112* to 115* if we are lucky. At this point anything under 110* is not a bad day. In Arizona the kids go back to school in August and it should feel like the end of summer...nope. The heat keeps coming into September. Some call it Indian Summer, we call it just HOT. October seems to be the magic month when the Man upstairs seems to say....enough, and flips the switch in the middle of the month and the temps drop.

I love my state and I am not complaining, only stating the facts as I see them. Also, simply commenting that I don't need a certain calendar date to tell me it is summer......and HOT!

What a day!

2010-06-17T21:58:00.000-07:00

Just a great day, nothing amazing, just one of those days when things go smoothly, no earth shattering news. Got to catch up with a former neighbor, meet some of the daughters new friends, (that I like I might add)and did a little shopping for ME!

What a blessing simple days and good times are!

Remember

2010-03-22T08:09:00.000-07:00

Women are Angels

And when someone breaks our wings....

we simply continue to fly.........on a broomstick.

We are flexible like that....

EGO

2010-02-23T11:05:00.000-08:00

E edging
G God
O out

Things your burglar won't tell you

2010-01-25T14:26:00.000-08:00

Things Your Burglar Won't Tell You:

1. Of course I look familiar. I was here just last week cleaning your carpets, painting your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator.

2. Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.

3. Love those flowers. That tells me you have taste ... and taste means there are nice things inside. Those yard toys your kids leave out always make me wonder what type of gaming system they have.

4. Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it.

5. If it snows while you're out of town, get a neighbor to create car and foot tracks into the house. Virgin drifts in the driveway are a dead giveaway.

6. If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don't let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it's set. That makes it too easy.

7. A good security company alarms the window over the sink. And the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom--and your jewelry. It's not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too.

8. It's raining, you're fumbling with your umbrella, and you forget to lock your door--understandable. But understand this: I don't take a day off because of bad weather.

9. I always knock first. If you answer, I'll ask for directions somewhere or offer to clean your gutters. (Don't take me up on it.)

10. Do you really think I won't look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet.

11. Helpful hint: I almost never go into kids' rooms.

12. You're right: I won't have enough time to break into that safe where you keep your valuables. But if it's not bolted down, I'll take it with me.

13. A loud TV or radio can be a better deterrent than the best alarm system. If you're reluctant to leave your TV on while you're out of town, you can buy a $35 device that works on a timer and simulates the flickering glow of a real television. (Find it at faketv.com.)

14. Sometimes, I carry a clipboard. Sometimes, I dress like a lawn guy and carry a rake. I do my best to never, ever look like a crook.

15. The two things I hate most: loud dogs and nosy neighbors.

16. I'll break a window to get in, even if it makes a little noise. If your neighbor hears one loud sound, he'll stop what he's doing and wait to hear it again. If he doesn't hear it again, he'll just go back to what he was doing. It's human nature.

17. I'm not complaining, but why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system and leave your house without setting it?

18. I love looking in your windows. I'm looking for signs that you're home, and for flat screen TVs or gaming systems I'd like. I'll drive or walk through your neighborhood at night, before you close the blinds, just to pick my targets.

19. Avoid announcing your vacation on your Facebook page. It's easier than you think to look up your address.

20. To you, leaving that window open just a crack during the day is a way to let in a little fresh air. To me, it's an invitation.

21. If you don't answer when I knock, I try the door. Occasionally, I hit the jackpot and walk right in.

Sources: Convicted burglars in North Carolina , Oregon , California , and Kentucky; security consultant Chris McGoey, who runs crimedoctor.com; and Richard T. Wright, a criminology professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, who interviewed 105 burglars for his book Burglars on the Job.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Protection for you and your home

If you don't have a gun, here's a more humane way to wreck someone's evil plans for you. (I guess I can get rid of the baseball bat.)

Wasp Spray

A friend who is a receptionist in a church in a high risk area was concerned about someone coming into the office on Monday to rob them when they were counting the collection. She asked the local police department about using pepper spray and they recommended to her that she get a can of wasp spray instead.

The wasp spray, they told her, can shoot up to twenty feet away and is a lot more accurate, while with the pepper spray, they have to get too close to you and could overpower you. The wasp spray temporarily blinds an attacker until they get to the hospital for an antidote. She keeps a can on her desk in the office and it doesn't attract attention from people like a can of pepper spray would. She also keeps one nearby at home for home protection... Thought this was interesting and might be of use..

Wasp And Hornet Spray

On the heels of a break in and beating that left an elderly woman in Toledo dead, self defense experts have a tip that could save your life.

Val Glinka teaches self-defense to students at Sylvania Southview High School . For decades, he's suggested putting a can of wasp and hornet spray near your door or bed.

Glinka says, "This is better than anything I can teach them."

Glinka considers it inexpensive, easy to find, and more effective than mace or pepper spray. The cans typically shoot 20 to 30 feet; so if someone tries to break into your home, Glinka says, "spray the culprit in the eyes." It's a tip he's given to students for decades. It's also one he wants everyone to hear. If you're looking for protection, Glinka says look to the spray.

"That's going to give you a chance to call the police; maybe get out."

Maybe even save a life.

It's that time again

2010-01-12T20:41:00.000-08:00

It's winter here in Arizona and its the time of year when I receive a lot of long distance calls. Calls where my family, friends and clients tell me how many degrees below zero it is where they live. And of course let's not forget the wind chill factor.

Personally I cannot even fathom that kind of cold. I was born and spent my childhood in Arizona. As an adult we moved to Southern California and spent 21 years in a magical Mediterranean climate. Now we are back in the amazing state of Arizona with its diverse terrain and climate. Our home is located in the Sonoran Desert where only the strongest survive, this includes people, plants and animals! However within a 2 hour drive we can be in the gorgeous pine forests and ski resorts.

Arizona comes with it's challenges, and we "pay it forward" when we struggle through the summer sun to live in these fall through winter months while we can still enjoy the outdoors. If you have never visited you must someday. And of course if you HAVE visited and want to move here.......call me, I'm your REALTOR!

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T22:33:00.000-08:00

To all of my family, friends and associates, Happy New Year! May 2010 bring much happiness, joy, and prosperity to us all!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T22:24:00.000-08:00

May God's love find you during this season and touch you with friendship, love, peace and joy. Merry Christmas to all my family and friends.

Quick Quiz

2009-12-06T17:56:00.000-08:00

Okie Dokie boys and girls, here is another quick quiz to test yourself. Have fun!

http://pewresearch.org/politicalquiz/quiz/index.php

Happy Veterans Day to my Brothers, Dad, Husband, Uncles, Nephew, Friends.........and all!

2009-11-11T12:34:00.000-08:00

The 11th Hour: The Date Behind Veterans Day

by Claudine Zap

While most know that Veterans Day honors those who have served in the military, the meaning behind its exact date (November 11) may not be so familiar. Here's the back story:

Back in 1918, in the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, a stop to hostilities was declared, ending World War I. An armistice to cease the fighting on the Western Front was signed by the Allied powers and Germany.

President Woodrow Wilson immediately proclaimed the day "Armistice Day," kicking off the annual commemoration on November 11. But over the years, with veterans returning from World War II and the Korean War, Armistice Day became Veterans Day — a day reserved to honor veterans returning from all wars. But 11/11 still represented the end of the Great War in the public's mind, and the date stuck.

In 1921, unidentified dead from the war were buried in Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C., Westminster Abbey in London, and the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The tradition to honor those killed in the war but never identified continues every year in the U.S. The ceremony is held at 11 a.m. at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.

Congress designated Veterans Day as a legal holiday in 1938.

In remembrance of the brave souls that fought for our freedoms that we take granted every, single day. Take a moment to appreciate the men and women that have served and are currently actively protecting our country.

Don't move to the Phoenix area!

2009-11-10T09:32:00.001-08:00

Don't move to the Phoenix area unless you are looking for a GREAT deal on real estate! Don't move here if you do not want months of sunshine and outdoor sports! Don't move here if you don't want to live in the center of a state with climates from high altitudes and snow to the Sonoran Desert. Don't move here if you don't like taking trips to beautiful destinations such as Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon or historical sites like Tombstone and Ghost towns!

In the current real estate game here in the Valley of the Sun, with the foreclosures and short sales in this area, Buyers are the current winners. First time home buyers and retirement/vacation home buyers have been the recent lucky players but with the Feds adding tax credit for secondary buyers there are now great opportunities for more players....more winners!

He Who Hesitates

2009-11-08T09:22:00.001-08:00

Have you ever worked with someone in sales that was assisting you as part of his/her job, but you could tell they really weren't a "people person"?

Yesterday I was asked by a Broker who I highly respect just what part about being a REALTOR do I like most. I responded that I enjoy working with Buyers, hunting down the perfect home for their needs and seeing a successful transaction complete....no matter how long it takes! He replied that it's because I am a People Person. What a compliment I took this to be!

This doesn't mean to say that I don't do my very best to assist my clients in listing and selling their homes if that is their need, I just enjoy being part of the process of making someones' dream a reality with home ownership.

The housing market in the Greater Phoenix Metropolitan area is currently a gift to those entering the first time buyer market or investing in a second home or perhaps a retirement home. We haven't seen these incredibly low prices for years. Low prices coupled with the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit and some great down payment assistant loans make home ownership within reach for many people who never dreamed it was possible.

Just this week not only was the First Time Home Buyer Credit extended but also added were other tax credits for those buyers not first time owners!

Spread the word to anyone you know who may be renting or even considering a second home for vacationing or investment in Arizona. Now is the time to make that move. He who hesitates......well, he may not be lost but in this case may lose a great deal on a house!

Promises Promises

2009-10-25T16:32:00.000-07:00

The weather report said we will not hit any 3 digit temps for a few months now. A promise I hope will be kept!

Woo Hoo! The weather here in the Valley of the Sun is amazing this time of year. Any one who has ever thought of purchasing a home needs to come take a look and see why people live here year round and why we put up with a few months of blazing heat. The fall, winter and spring in Phoenix and the surrounding cities like Goodyear, Buckeye, Glendale, Peoria, Chandler, come alive with activity. Golfers return for daily games on courses from parks and rec to professionally designed by the best of the best.

Soccer, football, softball and baseball fields are filled day and night. Restaurants with outdoor patios are geared up and in full swing. Some of the best shopping centers in Scottsdale and Chandler are stocked and ready for the holidays. Even the outlet malls and outdoor market places are ready for shoppers ready to get outside and enjoy our cooler days and evenings.

Why wait? Come join us! If you need to see the leaves change a short drive to Sedona and Flagstaff is just a few hours away!

It's all here in Arizona......come play with us....you will want to stay and call it home like we do.

Technology & Common Sense

2009-10-12T15:31:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago a friend sent this to me.....worth sharing.

GPS
A family goes to a football game and parks in the special "allotted" area for the fans. While the game was going on the car was broken into. Things stolen from the car included a garage door remote control, $$$, and a GPS prominently mounted on the dash.

When the victims got home they found that their house had been ransacked and just about everything worth anything had been stolen. The thieves had used the GPS to guide them to the house. They then used the garage remote to open the garage door and gain entry to the house. The thieves knew the owners were at the football game, they knew what time the game was scheduled to finish and how much time they had to empty out the house. It would appear that they had a truck to empty the house of its contents.

Something to consider if you have a GPS - don't put your home address in it! Put a nearby address such as a store so you can still find your way home if needed, but no one else would know where you live if your GPS were stolen.

Cell Phones
A women had her handbag stolen. In it were her cell phone, credit cards, wallet, etc. 20 minutes later she called her husband from a pay phone to tell him what had happened. Hubby says "I received your text asking about our pin number and I replied a little while ago." When they contacted the bank they were told the money was already withdrawn. The thief used the cell phone to text "hubby" in the contact list and now had the pin number to their bank account. Within 20 minutes the thief had withdrawn $$$ from their account.

Moral of this story?
Do not disclose the relationship between you and the people in your contact list. Avoid using names like Hubby, Honey, Sweety, Dad, Mom, etc and whenever someone asks for sensitive information DON'T text them back. CALL THEM back!

Are the above stories true? Should we check it through Snopes or other sites? Go ahead if you wish, but it just makes sense to me and I thought I would pass this information along in case it helps just one person from being taken advantage of.

Could it be fall?

2009-09-18T18:22:00.000-07:00

Daytime temps of 100* and lows at night in the high 70's! Reason enough for a celebration here in the desert. It almost makes you want to go outside at 2am and do a happy dance!

Most of the locals are ready for a break in the heat while Northern and Eastern visitors are getting ready to return. So, okay, you may not find this really news worthy.....but finally we have some weather to talk about since the Monsoon pretty much passed us over this year.

So come on back everyone! Arizona and all its' glory awaits!

Strength comes

2009-09-13T17:10:00.001-07:00

“Strength comes in challenging yourself everyday even if it is just opening the door and walking through….Anonymous

Because I like this

2009-08-11T09:37:00.000-07:00

Because I like this quote I will share ........

Never lose sight of the fact that the most important yardstick of your success will be how you treat other people-your family, friends, co-workers and even strangers you meet along the way.

Barbara Bush

Worth reposting

2009-08-09T11:05:00.000-07:00

A veteran is someone who, at one point in his life, wrote a
blank check made payable to ' Canada ' or ' United States of
America ' for an amount of 'up to and including my life.'

That is Honor, and there are way too many people in this
country who no longer understand it.'

Lots and lots of practice needed

2009-08-04T12:37:00.000-07:00

http://www.whc.net/rjones/USN/USN_team.html

The Sack Lunches

2009-08-02T16:13:00.000-07:00

The Sack Lunches

I put my carry-on in the luggage compartment and sat down in
my assigned seat. It was going to be a long flight. 'I'm
glad I have a good book to read Perhaps I will get a short
nap,' I thought.

Just before take-off, a line of soldiers came down the a
isle and filled all the vacant seats, totally surrounding
me. I decided=2 0to start a conversation. 'Where are you
headed?' I asked the soldier seated nearest to me.

'Petawawa. We'll be there for two weeks for special
training, and then we're being deployed to Afghanistan.

After flying for about an hour, an announcement was made
that sack lunches were available for five dollars. It would
be several hours before we reached the east, and I quickly
Decided a lunch would help pass the time.

As I reached for my wallet, I overheard soldier ask his
buddy if he planned to buy lunch. 'No, that seems like a
lot of money for just a sack lunch. Probably wouldn't be
worth five bucks. I'll wait till we get to base '

His friend agreed.

I looked around at the other soldiers. None were buying
lunch. I walked to the back of the plane and handed the
flight attendant a fifty dollar bill. 'Take a lunch to all
those soldiers.' She grabbed my arms and squeezed tightly.
Her eyes wet with tears, she thanked me. 'My son was a
soldier in Iraq ; it's almost like you are doing it for
him.'

Picking up ten sacks, she headed up the aisle to where the
soldiers were seated. She stopped at my seat and asked,
'Which do you like best - beef or chicken?'

'Chicken,' I replied, wondering why she asked. She
turned
and went to the front of plane, returning a minute later
with a dinner plate from first class. 'This is your
thanks.
After we finished eating, I went again to the back of the
plane, heading for the rest room. A man stopped me. 'I saw
what you did. I want to be part of it. Here, take this.'
He handed me twenty-five dollars.

Soon after I returned to my seat, I saw the Flight Captain
coming down the aisle, looking at the aisle numbers as he
walked, I hoped he was not looking for me, but noticed he
was looking at the numbers only on my side of the plane.
When he got to my row he stopped, smiled, held out his hand,
an said, 'I want to shake your hand.'

Quickly unfastening my seat belt I stood and took the
Captain's hand. With a booming voice he said, 'I was a
soldier and I was a military pilot. Once, someone bought me
a lunch. It was an act of kindness I never forgot.' I was
embarrassed when applause was heard from all of the
passengers.

Later I walked to the front of the plane so I could stretch
my legs. A man who was seated about six rows in front of me
reached out his hand, wanting to shake mine. He left
another twenty-five dollars in my palm.

When we landed I gathered my belongings and started to
deplane. Waiting just inside the airplane door w as a man
who stopped me, put something in my shirt pocket, turned,
and walked away without saying a word. Another twenty-five
dollars!

Upon entering the terminal, I saw the soldiers gathering for
their trip to the base. I walked over to them and handed
them seventy-five dollars. 'It will take you some time to
reach the base. It will be about time for a sandwich. God
Bless You.'

Ten young men left that flight feeling the love and respect
of their fellow travelers. As I walked briskly to my car, I
whispered a prayer for their safe return. These soldiers
were giving their all for our country. I could only give
them a couple of meals.

It seemed so little...

A veteran is someone who, at one point in his life, wrote a
blank check made payable to ' Canada ' or ' United States of
America ' for an amount of 'up to and including my life.'

That is Honor, and there are way too many people in this
country who no longer understand it.'

Homes for Sale

2009-07-30T14:12:00.000-07:00

This post is just to answer a few questions I get.....repeatedly.

Homes for Sale (3 types)
1. Traditional Owned
The actual owner of the home, a real person is selling the house! This home comes with a disclosure statement (SPDS) of facts pertaining to the home. Also will come with a statement from the insurance company disclosing any claims that have been on the property the last few years. Repairs may be made from the seller. Customary/usual time frames for closing. These are currently few and far between.

2. Bank Owned
Also known as an REO or Foreclosure. This home is now owned by an entity, a business, NOT a person. They have not lived in the home and will not guarantee anything regarding the property. Sold AS-IS. No disclosure forms from the previous owner.
As I tell my clients .......you have 2 choices, take it or leave it.

3. Short Sale
A short sale is also known as a pre-foreclosure. More debt is owed against the property than the property's value. In this situation, the creditor(s) may be willing to agree to allow the property to be sold for less than the loan amount and /or accept less than (or short) the amount owed as payment in full. These properties are still owned by real people under hardship situations and will have a SPDS or Seller Property Disclosure Statement available. The owners usually do not have the finances to repair anything on the property and the home will generally be sold AS-IS.
I've also heard this described as where the Bank holding the mortgage is "taking it in the shorts".
These homes can take weeks to months to close! Buyers on a specific time frame to purchase may want to choose a different alternative. While short sales are pretty new to the market, they CAN be successfully closed. My advice when purchasing is to make sure the listing agent understands the process and has a successful track record closing short sales.

Any Questions? Give me a call.

FYI from a favorite lender

2009-07-29T08:08:00.000-07:00

LENDERS HATE FLIPPED PROPERTIES

Yes, it is true. Your client may have purchased the deal of the century at an auction last week, slapped a coat of paint on the walls, replaced a few appliances and is now ready to make a hefty profit. Except….FHA will not allow any contracts written until the 91st day after the last deed was recorded. And after that wait period, if the profit is deemed excessive, two appraisals will be required. And if you are thinking, that’s okay because conventional, VA or USDA do not have “seasoning requirements.” Think again, because that’s so 2008. All banks now have guidelines for seasoning. So be very careful when accepting an offer on your client’s flipped property or taking your buyer to view a home before asking if the lending bank is okay with “unseasoned” properties. And keep in mind, that awesome deal has now become the most recent comp for the appraisal.

Thanks Diane!

Frustration

2009-07-18T12:23:00.000-07:00

Some of my clients are getting frustrated with the Arizona Real Estate Market. They keep hearing how low houses are priced and that it is a "Buyers Market". With the best of intentions they contact me trying to find a home for themselves. Maybe a first time home buyer trying to take advantage of the tax credits available, or maybe someone looking for a second home. We find the house of their choosing, write the offer and keep getting rejected because someone else out bid our offer. After the third or fourth time at this my Buyers are getting frustrated! Do I blame them? Nope!

This market is really THREE markets.
Traditional or "Owner" owned homes
Short sales or pre-foreclosures
and of course Bank Owned, or foreclosed homes.
All competing with each other at prices that are up to and even less than half of what they sold for 2/3 years ago. Is it fair that my lovely home has to compete with a foreclosed home a few doors down? No, but it is what it is. Sellers are crying because their equity has vanished and the price of their home competes with the one that has no kitchen!

True, some prices haven't been this low since the 80's! Nice single family homes can be found for 65k. With these low prices Buyers need to understand it isn't only the first time buyers looking for a deal........but also those looking for vacation or second homes as well as the investors. New listings hit the MLS (multiple listing service) and by the end of the day there are already multiple offers on a home. So then we go into a bidding war where the list agent sends back to the buyers agent a new game with a "highest and best" offer form.

Another frustrating round for my clients just to hear that someone beat them out. As annoying as this is, I must encourage them to stick with it. It is not just them going through this maze, it's everyone from the buyers to the sellers to the agents.

Hang on, let's all ride this roller coaster together.......eventually we will all succeed!

Cheers to my friend Renee

2009-07-01T09:19:00.000-07:00

"Laughter through tears is the best emotion"

or something like that Dolly Parton said on the movie Steel Magnolias.

That is what happens to me when I remember a dear friend of mine who passed 2 weeks ago. Renee Bridgewater was only 49 years old when her frail body overcame her strong spirit. The days since have been difficult at best for her family I am sure, but for her friends we laugh and we smile as we cry.

I was fortunate enough to rekindle my friendship with the twosome Rena(her twin) and Renee were neighbors of ours when I was in high school. What an energetic and vibrant person she was. Always on the go, making people feel at ease and plain all around good friend.

As I was getting ready to go to her memorial service the tears began, but I had to chuckle to myself... If the three of us were sitting around with a glass of wine and discussing a memorial service and tears......we probably would all have a good laugh because we would talk about such silly things as "funeral proof" mascara, and toast to the person who would someday market it!

Mortgage tax credit might be available as down payment assistance!

2009-05-30T10:20:00.000-07:00

According to my favorite mortgage broker.....

FYI: Shaun Donovan, HUD Secretary, announced today that the $8,000 first time home buyer tax credit can now be used for down payment assistance for FHA Loans. Details are a little sketchy but it looks like this time it is real. Details coming next week.

This could really help so many first time home buyers get a foot into the housing market, especially with prices on homes we haven't seen since the 80's and 90's!

When there is a lack of honor........

2009-05-19T09:10:00.001-07:00

Herbert Hoover
31st President of the United States of America

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"…When there is a lack of honor in government, the morals of the whole people are poisoned.

…There is no such thing as a no-man's land between honesty and dishonesty. Our strength lies in spiritual concepts. It lies in public sensitiveness to evil.…

Our greatest danger is not from invasion by foreign armies. Our dangers are that we may commit suicide from within by complaisance with evil, or by public tolerance of scandalous behavior.…"

Phoenix Temperature and Housing Sales Heating Up

2009-05-13T09:21:00.000-07:00

Ahhh the Phoenix area housing market. Depending on who you chat with answers will vary, but if you talk with an REALTOR who is currently working in our market they will tell you like our temperature things are heating up with housing.

Between the investors returning and the first time home buyer credit offered the lower priced homes are being snatched up. Last week I showed a young client a home that quite literally had only been on the market for a few hours. By the end of the day there were multiple offers on the house! Within a week approximately 22 offers had been submitted and it went "Pending" with an accepted cash offer around 15k more than the asking price.

Banks love selling their foreclosed properties to "cash" offers because they don't have to pay out closing costs.....so their bottom dollar is higher. This is frustrating to my first time buyers who are qualified buyers, but paying with a mortgage, cash beats them out, they are bummed and don't want to continue after a few times.

It means things are changing to a competetive market once again for buyers. (at least on the homes around 100k) Buyers need to hang in there and continue the hunt for their new home. More foreclosures are forcast to hit our market unfortunately and this is still a GREAT time to buy a home! Great prices and great tax incentives!

Happy Birthday Dad!

2009-05-12T09:34:00.001-07:00

Today is my Dad's birthday.
Grampa Frenchy, Clarence, Emile, Frenchy......people know, love and respect him by many names. Our Dad (7 kids) is of French Acadian descent. He did not grow up in a home that lavished hugs and kisses and spoiled the children, but a home of love and respect and independence and passed those traits on to each of us.

He grew up in a very small town in Northern Maine. His father died at an early age and his mother (my namesake) Cecile was left to raise 8 children on her own. My Grandmother was of fine character and dare I say hardy stock? She did her best to see that her children grew to be fine adults. And they did. After finishing high school Dad went into the Navy, then became an electrician by trade. In the 50's he made his way west to Arizona. Various jobs crossed his path and then he became employed in Miami, AZ at a copper mine. After some years there he then moved our family to Cottonwood, Az to work at the Cement Plant in Clarkdale, this is where most of us grew up and had a great childhood.

Our Dad was THE 50's Dad. Go to work in the morning, home for family dinner in the evening. Sunday church and sometimes Sunday drives. All of our needs were met, we wanted for nothing that was a necessity. We all had bikes, Barbie dolls and summer passes to the Clarkdale Pool. He took us camping in the mountains sometimes so Mom could stay home and have a few days to herself. During all these childhood years he stayed in the Navy as Active Duty and this allowed him to still travel a bit and prepare for his retirement.....some day. With 7 kids he must have felt that way on more than one occasion.....some day! Well, his someday has come and he is having a wonderful time. He is still independent, healthy and headstrong. We love him. I could go on and on about our Dad, but I will leave you with this. Happy Birthday Dad, I don't know a finer man.

Yes I Switched Brokers

2009-04-28T09:29:00.000-07:00

I'm flattered!
Within 3 days of switching to Arizona Blue Sky Realty I am already getting calls and emails! There has been a little bit of confusion lately as to why I did this so hopefully I can answer a few questions.

I enjoyed my time at Liberty One.....which then became 212 Realty......but then I had the option to switch back......and I did since most of my advertising and branding materials were with Liberty One.......whew, that was 2 weeks ago.

With the current market changing every day, new rules, new regs, new lending programs, etc I felt the need to work in an office environment outside of our home where I would be able to obtain information on a more timely basis. Being around other people has always been important to me. It's great now to have real time conversations with other agents about the CURRENT shifts in OUR market.

I see this move as a pro-active step in this crazy market, a step to further aid my business and my clients wants and needs.

Thank you all for coming aboard this new adventure with me. I look forward to helping my friends and clients with
"All your Real Estate needs under the Arizona Blue Sky"

Where did they go?

2009-04-19T07:48:00.000-07:00

One of the clients I am currently working with recently sent me an email and wanted to know Where did all the listings go? I have him set up on what we call a "portal" basically an email is sent regarding the homes in the area he wants, new listings, price reductions, etc. My buyers can sit in the comfort of their home and see pictures of the home and detailed information prior to ever getting in the car to take a look. This is great, but some have gotten use to just waiting around to see how low things are gonna go. After the past few months of multiple listings each week, it seems things are drying up a bit. And they are!

According to MLS statistics from March 2009 we saw a decrease in the number of active listings on the market, along with more cancelled and expired listings. The number has not been this low since January of 2007!

March also had the greatest number of pending sales than any other month in the 36 month history - 31% increase!

So Buyers need to be aware with fewer homes on the market, more going into pending status it means more are selling! Every offer I have personally made for various clients in the last 3 months has been met with offers already submitted on the same property, which basically means we now go to a highest and best bidding at the bank along with any/all other prospective Buyers on said property! If the trend continues Buyers need to know this means less concessions, less negotiating on price, etc.
Gee, are we switching from a Buyers market to a Sellers market?

Yes, many homes are still hitting the market through foreclosures, but the nice ones at the rock bottom prices ARE moving quickly. Buyers cannot just sit back and wait any longer for their dream home to fall into their lap with a plummeting price.

City of Goodyear, AZ

2009-04-11T09:36:00.001-07:00

http://www.ci.goodyear.az.us/

Here is the link to our city. Once you take a look you will understand why so many of us call it home. After living in Southern California for 21 years and our children growing up there we needed to find an Arizona community that offered a progressive lifestyle with promises of an afforable yet sustainable future. After many trips back to the Valley of the Sun we decided on Goodyear.

In 2005 Goodyear was one of the fastest growing cities in the US. With the housing crisis of late buyers can now purchase homes here at very affordable prices. Some homes that sold for over $400k in '05 can now be found for about half the price, much like most of the Phoenix market. But these homes are 5 years old or less with many ammenities.

In 2008 Goodyear was awarded both the National Awards of "Most Livable City" and "All American City."

For my out of state/country buyers Goodyear offers many wonderful golf courses in the area as well as the spring training facilities for the Cleveland Indian and Cincinnati Reds. Goodyear offers a city mentality with a small town sense of belonging and safety.

Are the clouds parting over the Valley of the Sun?

2009-03-18T15:36:00.001-07:00

While the media casts a cloud of gloom and doom over the Valley of the Sun regarding real estate news I am hear to encourage! Recently while working with clients and making offers on homes we have found the market to be changing. No our home values have not started climbing yet, but there is good news. Over half of the properties my clients have been submitting offers on lately have been met with the news that multiple offers have already been submitted on that particular home!

This is not always the best news for my clients, but it does mean that there IS activity, people ARE buying and the banks are pushing back most offers for highest and best from our clients. This means the properties will most likely be sold for more than asking price! Granted these are usually foreclosed properties at rock bottom list prices but the fact there are multiple offers is very encouraging! Higher than list price home sales will start the trend for all of our homes to begin the upward climb.

Hallelujah!

Estrella, Goodyear, AZ

2009-03-15T07:17:00.000-07:00

Voted Best Master-Planned by Ranking Arizona
Estrella by Newland Communities was voted the number one master-planned community in Arizona by Ranking Arizona. This marks the fourth consecutive year Estrella has received this accolade.

AZ city makes Top 10

2009-03-13T09:12:00.000-07:00

According to a recent study, Surprise ranked #8 among the Top 10 Cities in the Country where prices have stabilized and are on the increase!

Good news for AZ real estate!

Quote of the day

2009-03-13T08:13:00.001-07:00

"You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich. You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong. You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift. You cannot lift the wage earner up by pulling the wage payer down. You cannot further the brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred. You cannot build character and courage by taking away people's initiative and independence. You cannot help people permanently by doing for them, what they could and should do for themselves."

Abraham Lincoln

Amazing Grace

2009-03-11T08:26:00.000-07:00

Beautiful rendition of Amazing Grace by Il Divo

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid271552717/bctid1913313052

Quote of the day

2009-02-27T06:00:00.000-08:00

A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have. Thomas Jefferson

Healthy eating

2009-02-19T08:39:00.000-08:00

As I fed Dan Fogelbird my canary this morning I commented to Dennis that if WE ate what I was giving him we would be as slim as the bird! Fresh veggies, fresh fruit, protein (hard boiled egg)and pure grains.

Meanwhile.....back to the carbs and starch.

Thought for the day

2009-01-14T09:22:00.000-08:00

"A day hemmed in prayer is less likely to unravel." unknown

American Civics

2009-01-13T08:16:00.000-08:00

http://www.americancivicliteracy.org/resources/quiz.aspx

Are you more knowledgeable than the average citizen?

The average score for all 2,508 Americans taking the following test was 49%; college educators scored 55%.

Can you do better? Questions were drawn from past ISI surveys, as well as other nationally recognized exams.

Good news for AZ

2009-01-12T15:34:00.000-08:00

Where populations are increasing is where people will be buying homes.

On December 22, 2008 the U.S. Census Bureau released good news for Arizona. Arizona was the second fastest-growing state increasing 2.3 percent between July 1, 2007, and July 1, 2008. This percentage increase represented 146,759 people.
A population increase of 146,759 people means 48,920 housing units were needed. How economists come up with 48,920 housing units is by dividing the numeric population growth by the average number of people per home (146,759 / 3 = 48,920). A housing unit is defined as an apartment rental, residential rental, new home or resale purchase.
This increase in population is a fundamental that helps reduce the oversupply of homes. Reducing the supply of homes helps stabilized our residential market.
According to the press release, the only two states losing population were Michigan and Rhode Island.

Below is information from the U.S. Census Bureau’s press release.

Leading 10 States / Equivalents by Population Change:
July 1, 2007, to July 1, 2008

Home Resales for Dec 08 - Maricopa County

2009-01-09T15:02:00.000-08:00

Lender Owned Properties (REO)

Of the monthly sales reported in Maricopa County,
the single family detached resale home sales reported through ARMLS for the month of December 2008, 56% of the listings were noted as "Lender Owned," up almost 10% from last month.

Sorry to report to all the homeowners that our property resale values ARE based on foreclosure prices, also known as REO, or Lender owned.

Dan Fogelbird

2009-01-09T07:53:00.000-08:00

Reasons why I love my Canary

1. He annoys my children.
2. He reminds me of my Mom who had various Canaries, all named "Tweety".
3. He thanks me when I give him food, water and treats. (unlike some family)
4. He has an awesome sound reminding me of his namesake, Dan Fogelberg.
5. Did I mention he annoys my children?

Do Overs

2009-01-02T03:53:00.000-08:00

How often have we all made mistakes and wished we could do it over?

Perhaps we said something stupid or offensive. Maybe we did something we knew was not honorable or slightly on the side of unethical. Maybe our words or actions hurt a friend or loved one and we knew once those words were out of our mouth nothing could ever retract them or erase the pain or suffering they caused.

Maybe it is just the opposite, not what we did or said but the lack of an action.Was there ever a time when you were a bystander and did nothing to help your fellow man? Did you ever see someone who looked down and out, or struggling by the look on their face and not even offered a greeting?

In this new year I would like to challenge any one who may read this to show a kind gesture or speak a kind word to someone different each day.

We will all be better for it!

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T10:22:00.000-08:00

To each and every one! May God's grace and blessings pour over all of us this next year and may we become personally aware of the work HE does in each of our lives.

Red Shoes

2008-12-20T08:17:00.000-08:00

I do believe today is a good day to wear my red shoes. Men sport red power ties, I have my red shoes.

It is amazing how a new pair of shoes can make a difference in someones countenance. Little kids will lift a foot as high as they can to show off their new shoes to anyone. The best EVER is if their little shoes light up! In Jr High and High school settings, the desired pair of designer sneakers may dictate or decide what social group teens hang with. Some adults must have designer labels on the soles of their shoes to feel validated. Of course buying them at a discount outlet is fine, they just need the label. I have been privy to conversations where women admit to judging a man immediately on the spot simply by the pair of shoes he is wearing.

Our oldest daughter appreciates her shoes. She has a closet devoted to them. They live in neat little rows and special bags and boxes under a chandelier. A plaque hangs over the door announcing "One shoe can change your life....Cinderella" For her birthday last year I found a little book that explained how you tell a woman's moods by her shoes! I do not believe my offspring worships her shoes, she appreciates them. It's not the shoes she loves, but the way they make her feel, and yes, even change her mood.

So today I will wear my red shoes. I call them my fierce red shoes. They look like cowboy boots so I will be able to tread through the bull. They have heels so I feel a tad elevated above whatever muck the day may bring. They have a fancy silver buckle because I believe that sometimes the only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize.....thank you Steel Magnolias. They are leather tooled, which brings a personal element and touch to them. And by golly they are RED! Which could be interpreted as a holiday color or sign of self confidence.

Nope, just a warning....Don't mess with me today.

I must be reading the wrong mail

2008-12-13T07:55:00.000-08:00

As I check through my emails each day I have discovered that I must be reading the wrong mail! Everything that is urgent, important, or needs my immediate attention seems to be in my spam mail.......from Nigeria! I don't THINK I know anyone from Nigeria? Wow, but that's the spot that makes me sound so important, wanted and needed!

Ok, back to my normal friends who don't hold me in such high regard......

Friends from the North

2008-12-11T19:07:00.000-08:00

Sounds like migrating birds! Well, snow birds. I love my new Canadian friends!

I have had the wonderful opportunity to get to know a great group of people from Calgary, Canada in the last few months. I met my first Canadian contact when Brenda stopped by an open house I was hosting, then she referred me as a Real Estate Agent to others and now my little flock of northern friends keeps growing. This week I was fortunate to meet yet another new friend! Hopefully he and his wife will be joining the Calgary Clan with their very own Hacienda here in the Valley of the Sun.

It's great to learn about how another country works, thrives and survives while I don't even have to learn a new language! Of course selling one of the couples a home on my very own street works out especially well, they invite me to happy hour and for dinner! I almost hate to add that twice I have invited my new neighbors to our home for dinner, and yet on both occasions we ended up at their house! No stuffy attitudes or presumptions, they love me just as I am. Even when I show up to dinner in my slippers!

Deck the Halls

2008-12-08T05:41:00.001-08:00

'Tis the season and all......I love decorating the house for Christmas, listening to Christmas Carols, writing the cards, etc. Somehow this year the days are slipping toward Christmas faster than usual and I finally got the tree decorated last night. I love my tree. After years of handcrafted ornaments made with pine cones, Popsicle sticks and pictures with toothless grins I want a "theme" tree. Something beautiful with select ornaments of my choosing. With colors of my choosing, maybe coppers and gold with jewel tones instead of red and green.

I have always felt a tad guilty over this since the kids DID make those treasures for us and my husband DOES love the idea of a "traditional" tree with the all the family ornaments through the years, with kid garland and the train circling the bottom of the tree.

As the kids have grown up they still want the house decorated, candles burning and the tree trimmed, but they don't really want to take part or extend the effort on either end of the decorating process, the set up or the re-packing for next year.

Last night pretty much helped me get over my guilt of wanting a tree MY way. It took several hours of laying things out just getting the lights, ornaments, garland etc, prepped to go on the tree in the order I like. About 3pm our youngest daughter now 19, woke from her nap, she came out and sat while I was on a ladder reaching for the top branches. I asked if she would like to help. Her comment was "No, not really." She then told me she had to get ready to go to her friends house, to help HER mother decorate their tree!

That pretty much told me everything and absolved me from all guilt I have suffered over the years. Our children don't really care WHO puts the tree up or what it looks like.

Done. Tree is up, the way I like it. My way, with my colors, and I may spite them even a little more and put singing bird ornaments on the thing!

1 December

2008-12-01T09:25:00.000-08:00

Deck the halls, trim the tree, string the lights. While seasonal decorations begin to puke forth may we all remember the true reason for this season!

Merry Christmas my friends!

No excuses

2008-11-03T08:57:00.000-08:00

VOTE!

Wise Words

2008-10-16T12:29:00.001-07:00

WISE WORDS

During this election year let's be reminded of these words:

* You cannot help the poor, by destroying the rich.

* You cannot strengthen the weak, by weakening the strong.

* You cannot bring about prosperity, by discouraging thrift.

* You cannot lift the wage earner up, by pulling the wage payer down.

* You cannot further the brotherhood of man, by inciting class hatred.

* You cannot build character and courage, by taking away men's initiative and independence.

* You cannot help men permanently, by doing for them what they could and should, do for themselves.

Do you recognize the author?

It was Abraham Lincoln

In these times....

2008-10-11T11:47:00.000-07:00

We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust our sails.

Lemons or Lemonade?

2008-10-08T10:15:00.000-07:00

Phoenix area news reports that last month lenders moved to foreclose on 7,447 homes, a new high. Valley homes foreclosed on and resold in September seem to add up to as much as 50% of the resales in September.

While this seems like more bad news or just more of the same......The good news is.....

According to Arizona Multiple Listing Service Data, 6136 homes were sold in September, the highest monthly level since August 2006!

So yes, the buyers are out there! What a great market to buy for first time homeowners and returning Veterans! And today it looks like the Feds may be reducing interest rates. Investors know that all the families that have lost their homes are needing rentals, what a great opportunity!

Remember when your Mom told you that when "life hands you lemons.....make lemonade"
This may be one of those times!

Quick Citizenship Test...Can you pass?

2008-10-03T07:56:00.000-07:00

Can you pass it? 10 questions from the re-designed citizenship test for immigrants who want to become naturalized Americans.

1. What does the Constitution do?

2. What do we call the first 10 amendments to the Constitution?

3. Name one branch or part of the government.

4. We elect a U.S. representative for how many years?

5. How many justices are on the Supreme Court?

6. How old do citizens have to be to vote for President?

7. When is the last day you can send in federal income tax forms?

8. There were 13 original states. Name three.

9. Who was president during World War I?

10. Name one U.S. territory.

Answers
1. Sets up the government, Defines the government, Protects basic rights of Americans
2. Bill of Rights
3. Legislaive, Executive, Judicial, Congress, the President, the courts
4. 2 years
5. 9
6. 18
7. April 15
8. NH, MA, RI, CT, NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, VA, NC, SC, GA
(Ok, do you know your state abbreviations?)
9. Woodrow Wilson
10.Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, Guam
(I'll give you a gold star if you know where the No Mariana Islands are!)

Fun Facts about Goodyear, AZ

2008-09-26T08:43:00.000-07:00

Below are some fun facts I learned last night at my "Citizens Academy" class for our wonderful little city presented by Joe Schmitz, a city Planning Manager in the Planning and Zoning Division of the City of Goodyear's Development Department.

*In 2003, the Goodyear city limits encompassed 117 square miles
*Since that time, Goodyear has annexed over 71 square miles
*Goodyear is over 35 miles long north to south
*Goodyear now encompasses 188.4 square miles

*Since 2000, Goodyear's population has more than tripled
*Population in 2000 - 18,911
*Population in 2008 - 58,600
*37% north of I-10 freeway
*44% between I-10 and Gila River
*19% south of the Gila River (Estrella)
*Current population is less than 10% of the population projected at build out

*Goodyear has 20,194 residential dwelling units
*Of that number, 19,311 are single family homes (95.6%)
*There are 836 multi-family units currently under construction

A favorite thought

2008-09-25T08:51:00.000-07:00

In this world of givers and takers
Too few are willing to give what it takes

author unknown

It's Fall in the desert

2008-09-22T08:42:00.000-07:00

So the calendar says anyway! We still have temps just over 100* but our nights are definitely dropping. The hum of the air conditioner kicking on and off is much less also and will hopefully reflect on our next energy bill!

Yesterday morning Dennis and I left our cozy little abode here in the Sonoran Desert and within 2 hours were sitting under pine trees allowing nature to cool us down.

Payson was about 78* with breezes blowing....glorious! This state is so truly amazing in the diversity of the terrain and the wide open spaces. We continued our day trip from Payson up through Show Low (73*) and then down through the Salt River Canyon to Globe and on back to the Valley of the Sun.

Dennis commented that in California we could drive from the Ocean to the Pines in just under 3 hours.....but it was populated with cities and towns the entire drive. In Arizona so much of the state is still undeveloped and pristine in its own natural beauty. For miles we were the only truck on the road, we took our time, windows down and enjoyed ourselves. Simple pleasures!

Now back to the calendar, since today is the first day of fall I am sure we make the trip again in about 4 weeks as the leaves change. Perhaps Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon as well, more natural jewels of our state.

Metro Phoenix Home Prices Down? REALLY?

2008-09-19T07:01:00.000-07:00

I just read an article reflecting the news that Metro Phoenix home prices are down by 23% according to a July/Aug study. The little voice in my head wanted to scream DUH!
We are all in this mess together friends, whether you are trying to sell your home or investment homes you were looking to "flip" or as a buyer watching your loan restrictions tighten.

By the grace of God many of us don't have to worry about selling just now. However the news that the home 3 doors down from you just dropped over $70k overnight does tend to send a shiver, straight down your spine to your wallet. I currently have buyers that don't want to make a move until they think the market is at the bottom and I continue to tell them that no one has the crystal ball as to when that will happen! Meanwhile the sad misfortune of short sales and foreclosures continue to load the market and traditional owner/sellers clutch their chests and hope for the best!

We will all ride this out together, bumpy as the journey may be. Remember, we live in the Wild Wild West, we are made of stern stuff and come from hardy stock! My advice is that if you know of anyone even THINKING about buying a home, now is the time........someone needs to ride this bull and win the prize!

Words I have loved since High School

2008-09-17T05:02:00.000-07:00

I expect to pass through this life but once.
If, therefore there can be any kindness I can show or any good thing I can do
for any fellow being let me do it now...
Let me not defer it, or neglect it,
For I shall not pass this way again.

Stephen Grellet (Etienne de Grellet du Mabillier)

Ceil the Deal

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Happy New Year!

New Stat, AZ housing market may have hit bottom?

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Simple Blessings

Life

So Summer is here.... officially

What a day!

Remember

EGO

Things your burglar won't tell you

It's that time again

Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas

Quick Quiz

Happy Veterans Day to my Brothers, Dad, Husband, Uncles, Nephew, Friends.........and all!

Don't move to the Phoenix area!

He Who Hesitates

Promises Promises

Technology & Common Sense

Could it be fall?

Strength comes

Because I like this

Worth reposting

Lots and lots of practice needed

The Sack Lunches

Homes for Sale

FYI from a favorite lender

Frustration

Cheers to my friend Renee

Mortgage tax credit might be available as down payment assistance!

When there is a lack of honor........

Phoenix Temperature and Housing Sales Heating Up

Happy Birthday Dad!

Yes I Switched Brokers

Where did they go?

City of Goodyear, AZ

Are the clouds parting over the Valley of the Sun?

Estrella, Goodyear, AZ

AZ city makes Top 10

Quote of the day

Amazing Grace

Quote of the day

Healthy eating