scottsdale mountain june 10

Scottsdale Mountain’sReal Estate Report

5 Ways to Wow Home Buyers!

Perfect Summer FareFrank & Albert’s

Pork Nachos

Father’s Day Bonding Sharing Your Favorite Pastime

June 2010

If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing. Produced by Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996 • www.DesertLifestyle.net

Each issue we will report on the previous period’s activity. This issue reflects activity for March through April, 2010.

• There are currently 18 Active Listings in Scottsdale Mountain. The last three periods were reported at 22, 28 and 28 Active Listings on the Market. Market time continues to be around 200 days.

• For March/April the average square footage price for Active Listings was $249.39 a slight increase from the last three periods of $237.62, $230.16 and $232.49.

• The average square footage price for Closed Sales for March/April however, was $172.02. This is slightly down from the previous three periods of $187.68, $190.61 and $192.45.

In the March/April period there were 13 Closed Sales and 14 Pending /AWC (Active With Contingencies – means it is under contract but there are contingencies with the contract that have not been taken care of yet and the property is still being marketed for backup offers). In the previous three reporting period there were 24, 9 and 11 in the combined Pending/AWC categories. For the second straight period, we saw very active closing and contract writing.

There seems to be a “disconnect” in this market. The square footage price for Active Listings is going up, yet the square footage price for Closed Sales continues to go down.

In spite of this “disconnect” we saw a positive effect from the winter visitors in this market. As we head into the summer months however, it will be crucial for Sellers who wish to move their property to be more competitive, not just within the Scottsdale Mountain market, but with the rest of the Shea/Via Linda corridor communities.

The strength of this last period was not unique to Scottsdale Mountain. The entire Valley has had strong activity throughout the winter selling season. For the remainder of the year it will be a little harder for those properties not properly priced.

As always, if you need a market analysis or help in buying or selling real estate, give us a call. For over 24 years we have helped our clients achieve their real estate goals in residential, land, commercial and investment properties.

Scottsdale Mountain Market Report

PENDING SALESAddress Sq. Ft. / Bed / Bath Price/Sq. Ft. List Price12135 N. 138th Way 2082 / 3 / 2 $178 $369,90012157 N. 138th Way 2082 / 3 / 2 $185 $384,90013792 E. Lupine Ave. 2343 / 3 / 2.5 $171 $400,00013967 E. Lupine Ave. 2343 / 3 / 2.5 $179 $420,00012521 N. 91st Way 3762 / 5 / 3 $113 $425,00012286 N. 135th Way 2254 / 2 / 3 $211 $475,00012415 N. 129th St. 2870 / 4 / 2.5 $181 $520,00013829 E. Lupine Ave. 3233 / 4 / 2.5 $167 $539,00012150 N. 137th Way 3027 / 3 / 3 $182 $549,90013785 E. Paradise Dr. 2769 / 4 / 2.5 $206 $569,90013623 E. Geronimo Rd. 3168 / 4 / 3 $182 $575,00013664 E. Wethersfield Rd. 3521 / 3 / 2.5 $175 $615,00013479 E. Summit Dr. 2231 / 3 / 3 $280 $625,00011969 N. 139th Pl. 4320 / 3 / 4 $162 $700,00012472 N. 133rd Pl. 4487 / 5 / 4 $167 $749,000

CLOSED SALESAddress Sq. Ft. / Bed / Bath Price/Sq. Ft. Sold Price COE13832 E. Paradise Ln. 1858 / 3 / 2 $183 $340,000 3/01/1013740 E. Geronimo Rd. 1858 / 3 / 2 $202 $375,000 3/10/1013587 E. Summit Dr. 2014 / 3 / 2 $189 $380,000 3/05/1012070 N. 138th St. 2979 / 4 / 3 $131 $389,000 4/19/1012091 N. 137th Way 2847 / 3 / 2.5 $148 $420,000 3/22/1012212 N. 128th Pl. 2782 / 4 / 2.5 $151 $420,000 4/12/1013622 E. Geronimo Rd. 2847 / 4 / 2.5 $183 $520,000 4/26/1012563 N. 136th St. 3056 / 4 / 3 $175 $535,000 4/30/1013717 E. Columbine Dr. 3036 / 4 / 2.5 $184 $560,000 3/09/1012657 N. 135th St. 4152 / 5 / 5 $138 $575,000 4/08/1013671 E. Desert Trl. 5029 / 5 / 5.5 $159 $800,000 4/14/1013623 E. Desert Trl. 5029 / 5 / 5.5 $189 $950,000 4/30/1013615 E. Windrose Dr. 5061 / 5 / 4.5 $205 $1,038,000 3/05/10

All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. The properties on this list have been listed/sold by various participants in the MLS.

www.ThePeggyRauchGroup.com

Peggy Rauch602.206.3336

[email protected]

Michael Meinerz602.882.0075

[email protected]

7001 N. Scottsdale Rd. #1020 • Scottsdale, AZ 85253

REAL ESTATE ACTIVITY IN

Southern Voice Tour: Tim McGrawCricket Pavilion, June 3rd602.245.7200 or cricket-pavilion.comBring out your boots and cowboy hat for this amazing lineup! McGraw is sure to entertain the crowd with new hits from his latest album Southern Voices as well as old favorites. The show opens with acts Love and Theft and the hit sensation Lady Antebellum who stole the show at this year’s ACM awards with best album of the year!

Wine and Beer Tasting FestivalThe Foothills Golf Club, June 5th480.270.4365 or folaz.orgThis annual festival has quickly become one of the premiere social events of the year in the East Valley. Each year more than 1,000 people gather for wine and beer tasting, sampling appetizers from several local restaurants and enjoying live entertainment. There will also be a silent auction featuring more than 100 items, such as dining gift certificates, jewelry and weekend getaways.

Zoo CampPhoenix Zoo, June 7th602.273.1341 or phoenixzoo.orgHave some animal lovers in the family? Zoo Camp is perfect for children interested in learning more about animals with up-close encounters and hands-on activities. Starting in June each session has a different theme such as Amazing Animals and Home Sweet Home Animal Style where kids will learn all about different animal habitats. Sure to be wildly fun!

Father of the Year AwardJW Marriott Camelback Inn, June 10th602.861.4731 or diabetes.orgNot only does this great event honor very special fathers in the community but it raises funds for the American Diabetes Association. The Fathers Day Council in Phoenix hosts a silent auction, reception and fabulous dinner followed by an awards ceremony. This is the 9th year the council has held this event bringing the total funds raised to over $1.3 million.

In the HeightsASU Gammage, June 15th – 20th480.965.5062 or asugammage.comWhat started out as a college project, hit the Broadway scene in 2008 with a bang. This fun, upbeat tale takes you on an adventure into a vibrant Manhattan community; a welcoming place where people discover who they are and who they want to be. The musical score encompasses three different generations and the dancing is award-winning. Tony-Award-winning that is!

Ringling Bros. CircusUS Airways Center, June 23rd – 27th800.745.3000 or ringling.comRelive your childhood memories as you enter the magical world of the Ringling Bros. Watch the trapeze artists fly with the greatest of ease and dazzle at the array of exotic performing animals. Ever wanted to run away and join the circus? Splurge for a more up-close and personal experience and become a “Circus Celebrity,” where you will be ushered on stage to perform with the rest of the clowns and dancers as the crowds cheer you on.

JUNE 2010

SMOKED & PULLED PORK NACHOS

Featuring Frank & Albert’s at Arizona Biltmore Resort

2400 E. Missouri Ave. • Phoenix602.955.6600 or arizonabiltmore.com

Looking for a special way to celebrate Father’s Day this year? Why not mark the annual event by taking time to share something special with your kids or grandkids? Whether golf is your game or you’re a woodshop kind of guy, take time to pass on your favorite pastime with your children. You’ll bond with your brood way more than any Father’s Day dinner out could ever provide. Here are some tips to get you started. Act Like A Golf Pro. Let’s face it: In your kids’ eyes, you’re as good as any PGA player when you hit the links. It doesn’t matter what your handicap is, your kids will think you’re the best when you take them golfing with you. Young kids will love riding in the cart and watching you play. When you’re on the green, give them the chance to putt the ball in for you. For older kids, spend time talking about why you love the game—the sound of the club hitting the ball, being outdoors, or whatever it is that makes it your favorite time—rather than just rattling off the rules of the game. After all, they can learn that anywhere. Once they see why you love the sport, they’ll be better able to understand why you’re out on the links so often, and they may even develop a love of the game themselves. Of course, if your youngster already has shown a passion for the sport, take time to set up regular lessons between the two of you. The skills learned and the memories made will last a lifetime in your child’s reminiscence. Give Them A Tour Of Your Workbench. Maybe you’re more of an artist or craftsman who loves creating things with your hands. Model planes, paintings, bird houses, vintage vehicles, sculptures,

photography? Whatever your passion, why not spend the day showing your kids all your tools and explaining how they work. They’ll love learning about what YOU love to do. Make plans to create a special project together. Get Fit—Family Style. For some dads, there’s nothing better than going for a long bike ride or run on the weekend. Why not take your son or daughter with you this Father’s Day? You’ll be surprised at how capable even little kids are when it comes to physical challenges. Once you see what they can do, sign up for a father- son or daughter race. Lots of organized races also offer kids’ fun runs so the whole family can embrace physical activity and challenges together. What could be a better Father’s Day gift? Cook Up Some Fun. If you’re the chef of the household, share your culinary skills with the kids. While kids generally enjoy baking up a batch of cookies, really take the time to delve into the intricacies of food creation. From technique and preparation, to seasoning and ingredient secrets, pass on your tips and tricks with great results: Everyone gets to eat the creations! Grow Something Meaningful. Whether it’s beautiful flowers and shrubs or healthy fruits and vegetables, some dads love to garden. If that’s you, try planning a special outdoor project you and your kids can enjoy together. Share with them all you know about caring for plants and tending to a garden, and just like the flowers and plants, your children will grow strong and beautiful with your tender care. Happy Father’s Day!

You’ve seen the television shows and read the magazine articles about how to get your home ready for sale. You’ve removed the clutter, de-personalized your space, given your home a thorough cleaning, and worked on your home’s “curb appeal.” You even know to have the aroma of fresh-baked cookies wafting out of your kitchen during open house days. What else can you do to set your home apart from the rest on the market? Check out these five lesser-known but ultra-effective ways to make your abode the one all the buyers want to snatch up. Be sure to consult with a Realtor that specializes in your neighborhood before making any major improvements. They can evaluate your property and your plans, and advise you on what is most attractive to buyers and will be the most advantageous to your bottom line.

1. ADD SOME ACE APPLIANCES. We all know that kitchens sell homes. But did you know that the appliances in your kitchen are the real kickers? High-end kitchen appliances—think top-of-the line gourmet stove ranges and fancy double ovens, oversized stainless steel refrigerators with tons of space, dedicated wine coolers, warming drawers and quiet, roomy dishwashers. New, clean, fresh-smelling appliances tell buyers the rest of the home is also well cared for—and offers the best of everything. In addition, in developments where many properties are on the market—and many are very similar in style—chef-quality, gourmet appliances can set your home apart from the crowd. So smart!

2. ROCK THE OUTDOORS. Maybe you’ve worked so hard on the inside of your home, you’ve neglected to showcase the positives of your outdoor space. The trick to selling your great outdoors is to make it feel as if potential homeowners have stepped into a sanctuary. If you’ve got a view, take advantage of it by setting the scene with upscale furnishings to soak up the desert sunsets and city lights. The goal? Make the outside of your home as irresistible as the inside and let home shoppers buy into the lifestyle you’re selling.

3. REMEMBER THAT WALLS CAN TALK. Don’t underestimate the power of some freshly-painted walls. While most sellers think bland neutrals will appeal to most people, you can kick things up a notch with tasteful faux finishes, coordinating accent walls (stick with calming hues), and even custom and designer paints. Heed caution here, as the right colors and textures will work magic but the wrong choices can be a turn-off. Not sure what colors or looks work in your home? Consult a paint specialist who will help you make the right decor decisions.

4. GET FLOORED. Potential buyers love to walk into a home and see major elements—think floors and walls—in perfect shape. And one thing they flip over right now: rich and glossy hardwood floors. Don’t leave a major project like re-flooring up to them—tackle the job yourself and buyers will beg to sign on the dotted line.

5. YOUR CROWNING GLORY. Adding crown molding to walls and on kitchen cabinetry really adds a touch of class to your home. Dining rooms and living rooms are great places to start. Kitchen cabinetry can transform the look of your kitchen for less than you’d think. Little details like these make viewers evaluate your home on a higher level. Give them every reason to pick your abode by making it irresistible!

INGREDIENTS:Pulled pork (recipe below)1 cup black bean puree (recipe below) 12 corn tortillas, fried1 cup guacamole

1 cup pico de gallo 1 cup sour cream8 oz. jack cheese4 sprigs cilantro

Prepare the Pulled Pork: Preheat oven to 275 degrees. Season the pork butt with salt and pepper. Using a stove-top smoker on high heat, place the soaked wood chips in the bottom of the pan. Place the pork on the rack, cover and smoke for 30 minutes. In a sauté pan, sauté the carrots, onion, garlic and shallot until soft. Add the beer and orange juice and bring to a simmer. Place the smoked pork butt into a braising pan and cover with the onion mixture. Add the bay leaf and thyme. Cover with aluminum foil and cook for four hours. Remove from the oven, allow to cool and shred the pork. Pour some of the braising liquid on the pork to keep it moist.

PULLED PORKIngredients:2 oz. applewood chips (soaked in water for 30 minutes)2 lbs. pork buttTo taste salt and pepper1 carrot, diced1 sweet onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, whole1 shallot, whole5 sprigs thyme1 bay leaf1/2 cup light beer1 cup orange juice

BLACK BEAN PUREEIngredients:1/2 lb. dry black beans preferred (or one can)1 red onion, diced1 bunch cilantro

1 tsp. cumin1 jalapeno, dicedTo taste salt and pepper

Prepare the Black Bean Puree: Place the black beans in a container and cover with water. Soak overnight. Remove the beans from the water and place in a large pot. Cover with fresh water. Add the onion, cilantro, cumin, jalapeno and a little salt. Cook until the beans are tender. Using a hand-held mixer, puree the beans until they are smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

PRESENTATION - PER PLATE: On the bottom of the plate, make a round circle of the black bean puree. Drizzle sour cream across the plate. Starting with the crispy corn tortilla, spread the guacamole on it. Place pork on top and sprinkle with the jack cheese and pico de gallo. Repeat with two more tortillas. Stack all three tortillas one on top of the other, and place in the center of the plate. Garnish with more cheese, pico de gallo and a cilantro sprig.

Serves: 4

SECRETS To Making Your Home Stand Out!