The Scott's Sell Scottsdale

head_left_image

Scottsdale Country Club - the Positano Community

The Positano subdivision built by Colombia Properties is part of the Scottsdale Country Club Village community located at the north west corner of Shea Boulevard and Hayden Road in the ‘west side’ of the Scottsdale Country Club.    Positano at the Scottsdale Country Club
The subdivision was built between 1996 and 1999. There are a total of 112 Mediterranean architecture homes with five unique floorplans in this subdivision. Each home has a private courtyard and full tile roof. 
The 5 distinctive Floorplans: 
(2x6 construction,r-30 insulation, dual pane windows)
     Single level floorplans:
· The CAPRI: 2 bd /2 bath 1,603 sf - (with optional casita 1,864 sf)
· The AMALFI: 2 bd / 2 bath 1,859 sf - (with optional casita 1,922 sf)
· The SORRENTO:  2 bd / 2 bath 1,906 sf
     Two level models:
· The BELLAGIO:    3 bd / 2 3/5 bath 2,463 sf (with optional casita 2,732 sf)
· The PORTOFINO: 3 bd / 3 bath 3,045 sf two story
 
This peaceful gated golf course community offers elegant country club living in the heart of north central Scottsdale. Secluded but convenient to shopping, medical facilities, restaurants, biking & hiking paths, parks, and much more!
 
     Check for current opportunities in this community:
 
 
When looking to buy and/or sell, or know of anyone that is, feel free to contact us.
Gary and Claudia Scott, REALTOR®, GRI
Call Toll Free at 866-464-2140 or e-mail at Garyandclaudia@cox.net
www.AZ-real-estate-sales.com 
 
0 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • October 17 2008 07:06PM

Solar tax rebates extended…..

In an effort to continue to direct the future of alternative energy and to move our country forward to energy independence, the latest financial bailout bill approved Oct. 3, 2008 not only extended the energy tax credits for eight years but also the Solar Energysignificantly increased the amount of incentives available! At least one area of the bailout bill that could actually give back money to ‘main street America’. The solar investment tax credit (ITC) provision authorizes $800 million for clean energy bonds for renewable energy generating facilities, including solar.
 
What better place than Arizona to take advantage of the free and plentiful sunshine! 
 
The energy incentives are:
  • $3.00 per installed watt
  • 25% of installed cost to a max of $1,000 (state tax credit)
  • 30% of installed cost to a max of $2,000 (federal tax credit)
  • Effective January 1, 2009 - 30% of installed cost with NO cap
  • Utilities are also offering rebates on top of the tax credits to further encourage solar equipment sales
 
Check out some of the Arizona incentives:
 
This positive step toward energy independence should stimulate the expansion of the future of renewable energy .  .  .  .  time will tell.
 
 
When looking to buy and/or sell, or know of anyone that is, feel free to contact us.
Gary and Claudia Scott, REALTOR®, GRI
Call Toll Free at 866-464-2140 or e-mail at Garyandclaudia@cox.net
www.AZ-real-estate-sales.com
 
3 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • October 14 2008 11:55AM

Scottsdale Home Sales For Week Ending Sept 14, 2008

The highly desired Scottsdale Real Estate continues to sell although at a slower rate than in previous years which is a symptom of the overall real estate market these days.

For all dwelling types in Scottsdale from 8-15-08 to 9-15-08:
there were a total of 5,591 active listings
424 (7%) that went under contract
371 (7%) that closed escrow.

The statistics for the week ending September 14, 2008 are now in. Check the home sale statistics for the individual Scottsdale zip codes below. 
  <
View Larger Map
Select colored area to see Zip Code info.

Scottsdale Median Home Sales Prices for Week Ending
Sept 14, 2008

Zip Code

Median Price

  

Search the MLS for properties in:

Home Sale Summary Jul-Sep 08,

Total  # Sold

Median  Price

85250

$285,000

  

85250

32

$258,062

85251

$235,000

 

85251

82

$251,238

85254

$325,000

 

85254

85

$324,426

85257

$200,000

 

85257

46

$203,000

85258

$530,000

 

85258

40

$553,563

85259

$328,807

 

85259

56

$376,000

85260

$350,000

 

85260

62

$329,950

85262

$452,500

 

85262

25

$610,000

 

When looking to buy and/or sell, or know of anyone that is, feel free to contact us.
Gary and Claudia Scott, REALTOR®, GRI
Call Toll Free at 866-464-2140 or e-mail at Garyandclaudia@cox.net
www.AZ-real-estate-sales.com

0 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • October 12 2008 03:38PM

Scottsdale Fall and Winter events arrive!

Fall and ‘winter’ (we ‘desert rats’ actually think we are cold) are rapidly approaching and that means lots of activities and ‘snowbirds’ for Scottsdale! The annual events and some newly added festivals always are enjoyable for all. 
 
One of my favorite is the Arabian Horse show. Even though we Scottsdale Arabian Horse Showdo not own a horse any more, it is always fun to watch these magnificent animals compete in the various venues. Of course there are many other horse shows as well - from the quarter horse show to the Hunter Jumper Horse Show - there is always something happening at Westworld. Unfortunately our new puppy won’t qualify for the U. S. Dog Agility Cynosport Games …..maybe she could pick up a few tricks if we simply take her to watch! This fall the National Festival of the West is returning to Westworld—this annual event features Western music, film, merchandise poetry and food. 
 
Gary prefers the golf and culinary festivals. I must admit that I do Scottsdale Golf and Culinary Arts Festivalactually enjoy watching the professional golfers at the FBR Open (formerly the Phoenix Open) as they make the game look easy and possibly worth giving golf a try myself. The Scottsdale Culinary Festival, features over 250 wineries, celebrity chefs, and live music from jazz to rock n’ roll. The outdoor event allows one to experience the taste of some of the nation’s best chefs and restaurants. Not exactly a diet affair. 
 
For those who choose to enjoy their own exercise in this mild sunny weather; golf, hiking, biking, tennis, swimming and yes, even ice skating (if you miss the cold) are some options.
How about a Hot Air Balloon ride or a jeep tour in the desert? There are car shows, art walks, parades, rodeos, Bowl games and more the list seems endless….Life is good in Arizona!
 
If you are fortunate enough to be in Scottsdale any time this fall/winter -
Check out some of the annual events here and join the fun!
 
If you discover love Scottsdale and want to relocate permanently
or invest in a winter retreat….feel free to contact us 
Gary and Claudia Scott, REALTOR®, GRI  
Call Toll Free at    866-464-2140  or e-mail at Garyandclaudia@cox.net
 
2 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • October 10 2008 02:34PM

Should Sellers consider a pre-inspection of their home?

Seller pre-home inspectionWhat is a pre-inspection (seller inspection)? The pre-inspection (a visual inspection of the structure and components of a home to find items that are not performing correctly or items that are unsafe) is the same professional home inspection paid for by the seller either before or while the home is on the market. When homes are sold and bought, typically the buyer will pay to have a home inspection to determine if there are any problems with the home before they purchase.
 
In today’s buyers market any advantage that a pro-active sellers can do to gain a marketing edge for the sale of their home is a plus! Savvy home sellers understand that paying for a professional home inspection can help them better position their home within the current market. The buyer still has the option (and probably will) of obtaining their own professional home inspection, however there is less likelihood of unexpected surprises and a greater chance the sale will go through as originally negotiated.
 
There is no such thing as a home without issues.
 
With a pre-listing inspection the certified home inspector examines the home just as thoroughly as a pre-purchase inspection - by conducting a visual evaluation and provides written documentation on the following:
  • Heating system.
  • Central-air-conditioning system (temperature permitting).
  • Interior plumbing and electrical systems.
  • Roof, attic and visible insulation.
  • Walls, ceilings, floors, windows and door.
  • Foundation, basement and visible structure.
  • Built-in major appliances.
The inspector s job is to point out both the good and the bad about a property. Then it is up to the home seller, with advice from their Realtor, to identify a strategy for improvements and positioning. A copy of the home inspector’s report, along with copies of receipts for any improvements and upgrades, can be made accessible to potential buyers.
 
So why pay the extra money…...what are the benefits to the seller?
  • Well, first of all peace of mind and confidence that your home is in sellable condition.
  • Gives you time to identify and fix problems that surface -catching potential pitfalls early, rather than lose the buyer later
  • Reduces your liability by adding professional supporting documentation to your disclosure statement
  • It gives you the opportunity to have any defects that were uncovered corrected before filling out the disclosure forms
  • A clean inspection report can be used as an attachment to the seller’s required disclosures to back up statements about condition 
  • Gives you the option of repairing urgent items before the house is placed on the market - in most cases these items will have to be addressed prior to closing whether done before the buyer inspects or after.
  • Buyers may be more interested in a pre-inspected home because there shouldn’t be any big surprises after the contract is negotiated — thus avoiding inspection issues that can delay the closing process or worse causing the buyer to walk away.
  • It helps you price your home realistically.
  • the pre-inspection report can be a bargaining
  • Can save critical time between the contract and closing
In today’s market, buyers have plenty of choices. 
Pre-inspections are gaining great momentum in the real estate markets
Consider presenting your home with a “Pre-Inspected” tag
 
We offer professional representation to assist you in buying or residential real estate in Scottsdale and the greater Phoenix metropolitan area.
When looking to buy and/or sell, or know of anyone that is, feel free to contact us  
Gary and Claudia Scott, REALTOR®, GRI  

Call Toll Free at    866-464-2140  or e-mail at Garyandclaudia@cox.net  
5 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • October 07 2008 11:24PM

Spotlight “Sovanna” at the Scottsdale Country Club

The gated condominium golf community of Sovanna was constructed in 2003-2004. Each Sovanna at the Scottsdale Country Clubof the 174 two and three bedroom homes ranging from 1,286 to 1,683 square feet in five floor plans has a private (1 or 2 car) garage . Nestled between the 2nd and 7th fairways of the golf course, this secluded neighborhood offers privacy and beautiful scenery.
 
Constructed by Starpointe Luxury Condominium Communities - there are 5 different floorplans available. The units have 10 foot ceilings and a split bedroom layout for privacy. Each unit offers views of the golf course or community pool area. Units are all single story either on ground level with a covered patio or the 2nd level with a large balcony.
 
Map - Sovanna at the Scottsdale Country ClubThe community is professionally managed and HOA Fee is $ 215 monthly. The HOA fee includes: Exterior maintenance of the Unit; Roof Repair; Roof Replacement; Blanket Insurance Policy; Water; Sewer; Garbage Collection; Front Yard maintenance ; Common Area maintenance and Street maintenance.
 
There is a resort style pool, a clubhouse with full kitchen and washrooms, a media and entertainment room and a well-equipped fitness center. 
 
 
This luxurious community is worth checking out - you will not be disappointed!
 
 
We offer professional representation to assist you in buying or residential real estate in
Scottsdale and the greater Phoenix metropolitan area.
When looking to buy and/or sell, or know of anyone that is, feel free to contact us
 
Gary and Claudia Scott, REALTOR®, GRI  

Reach us toll free at - 866-464-2140 or e-mail at Garyandclaudia@cox.net
 
 
0 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • October 06 2008 04:07PM

Selling your home—What do you do with your pets??

Selling Real Estate and petsYou have decided to move and now have your property ready to list for sale. But, what do you do to ensure your pet is safe and not traumatized by having strangers enter your (their) home? As a avid pet lover, I understand your concerns about your “family member” pet. So, how do you make your home assessable without disrupting your lifestyle? This is always a challenge. It is best to formulate a plan for how to handle your pets while your home is being marketed. Showing with ‘special pet instructions’ may impedes a showing is a hindrance to selling the house.

 
A primary challenge is to maintain a clean environment, to keep pet toys picked up, the food and water in an non-conspicuous location. And, don’t forget to make sure that no undesirable odors are obvious. Don’t try to mask the odors with air fresheners, there are some enzyme cleaners that will help freshen the environment. Consider scheduling a professionals to remove the stains. Buyers will spot them and form unfavorable opinions about the rest of the house. If the stains can't be removed, then remove the floor covering and replace it.
 
Of course, if your pet is already in a cage or fish bowl, there is no problem J 
If you own a dog or cat there can be several issues involved in marketing your home. 
There are those buyers who do not like pets at all and may be reluctant to purchase a home that has had pets. They may opt to dismiss any homes that indicate pets are inside.
 
Unfortunately, many individuals are allergic to cat dander which may cause them to rapidly view your home without really ‘seeing it’. Cats are typically shy and will mostly hide when a stranger is around. However, if they are overly friendly and happen to climb on the kitchen counter or dining table, this may turn off the prospective buyer. If you have a cat that may be inquisitive and curious or if you do not want to be let outside, you may want to consider a pet carrier. Try to keep your home as ‘cat hair free’ as possible, make sure the litter box is in an unobtrusive area and that is impeccably clean with little or no odors. 
 
Some individuals are afraid of dogs from the toy poodle to the great dane! Realistically, the sweetest temperament dog can become aggressive when a stranger enters the home especially if you are not home. Technically, he believers that protecting his territory is his job. There is also a liability issue to consider in regard to pets on the property when a potential buyer is checking out the residence. You don’t want to risk a buyer being injured by your pet. If your dog has free run of the home, this may interfere with buyers trying to view the amenities of your great property. It is best to attempt to keep your dog off the property when showings occur. Enroll them a doggie day care center or arrange for a friend/relatives to care for them for a few hours At a minimum, consider confining them to a specific area especially if you don’t want them to escape through the open door when the potential buyer enters. Restrict them to a pet carrier, put them in a ‘dog run’ if possible or simply leave them in the backyard . Keep in mind confining them to the backyard may limit the buyers desire or ability to adequately view the amenities of your yard. If you are home, you can avoid confusion by take your pet for a walk while your home is being shown. 
 
Bottom line, you want to keep your pets your pets safe while not distracting
buyers from observing your home!

Search the MLS here 
Contact Gary and Claudia Scott, REALTOR®, GRI 
   Reach us toll free at  866-464-2140  or e-mail at garyandclaudia@cox.net.
Be sure to check out Gary and Claudia's Website:  www.AZ-real-estate-sales.com Blog:  http://claudiascott.activerain.com 
0 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • October 04 2008 09:29AM

Market Update Stats

The calendar page has turned and it is October already! Of course, this means great weather for in Arizona for many months to come!! The year has passed quickly with many ups and downs.


While the real estate roller coaster ride seems to continue to soar, there appears to be stabilization visible on the horizon. The balance of 2008 will certainly be affected by national politics and policies. This is a market that many potential players are on the sidelines waiting to re-enter. I, for one, am growing weary of the negative doom and gloom that the media continually bombards us with and am looking for the silver lining in this economic chaos that plagues our nation!

Below are some of the latest complied statistics for August of 2008:
The Arizona MLS:
♦  Active listings - 52,300.
36,700 are $350K or below
15,600 are above $350K

♦ Closed sales for August - 5700+
4,946 are $350K or below
758 are above $350K

August was the third month in a row that there was a year over year increase in the number of sales. In fact August had 31% more sales in ‘08 than in ‘07. Since January there has been a 115% increase in sales.

54% of the Active listings are Vacant - however 76% of the August Sold properties were Vacant. 
 

Phx MLS Real Estate Sales per month

For continuing market updates—check our web page www.AZ-real-estate-sales.com -
the latest 30 day snap shots and other valuable statistics.

Re: the repercussions of 2006: Many of the current real estate market conditions can be directly traced back to the number of people purchasing homes that they did not in realty qualify for. The generous lending market, the hyped up media and the rush to purchase all contributed to the over selling and inflation of property. Although those days are now behind us as the market continues to ‘correct’ the sad statistics show just home many unsuspecting homeowners have now lost their dream of home ownership!

          Trustee Sales:
· 36,635 notice of Trustee Sales filed on 2006 originations.
· Of those, 19,791 have already been foreclosed upon; 12,244 currently active notices.
· Over 10% of all properties sold in 2006 have already been foreclosed upon.

Now is a great time to purchase a property in the greater Scottsdale/Phoenix metro area:
inventory remains relatively high, the prices
are lower than they have been in years and interest rates are low!

We offer professional representation to assist you in buying or residential real estate in
Scottsdale and the greater Phoenix metropolitan area.
When looking to buy and/or sell, or know of anyone that is, feel free to contact us
Gary and Claudia Scott, REALTOR®, GRI  

Reach us toll free at -    866-464-2140    or e-mail at Garyandclaudia@cox.net
 

 

 

 

0 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • October 03 2008 01:41PM

The Starfire Golf Club in the Scottsdale Country Club

The Starfrie golf club in the Scottsdale Country Club
Originally founded in 1953 as Sundown Ranch Golf Club (later to become the Scottsdale Country Club), the Starfire Golf Club at Scottsdale Country Club is one of oldest golf clubs in Scottsdale, AZ. The courses flow through the Scottsdale Country Club community beautifully lined with many old eucalyptus, pine and cottonwood trees.
 
Starfire has three nine-hole courses that are played in three combinations of eighteen holes. The three distinct nine-hole designs at Starfire are “The King”, “The Hawk”, and “The Squire”. In the mid 1980’s, Arnold Palmer was brought in to redesign the original 18 (The Hawk & The Squire) and also add a completely new nine located on the east nine (The King).  
  • "The Squire" - nine is an extra Par-3
  • "The Hawk" - nine has one Par-5, along with three Par-3 holes, the remaining 5 Par- 4's
  • “The King"   - nine holes
 
Scottsdale Country Club golf course
The Starfire has a full service clubhouse with a pro shop, meeting/banquet rooms, restaurant lounge (serving fully menu breakfast and lunches). There is also a practice green for putting and chipping. For those who want to ‘practice’ a there is a complementary short game area where you can warm up (wedges only) using your own balls and retrievers.
 
There are several subdivisions within the Scottsdale Country Club offering single family homes, patio homes, townhomes and condominiums.
 
 
When looking to buy and/or sell, or know of anyone that is, feel free to contact us
Gary and Claudia Scott, REALTOR®, GRI  

Reach us toll free at -   866-464-2140   or e-mail at Garyandclaudia@cox.net 
Visit our website www.AZ-real-estate-sales.com  where you will find a wealth of information and tools to assist you with all your real estate needs.

0 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • October 02 2008 11:18AM

Explore the Scottsdale Country Club

The Scottsdale Country Club is located in north central Scottsdale at the intersection of Shea Blvd and Hayden Road. There are basically 2 sections to this planned community. The west section was began construction in 1984 the eastern portion followed in 1986.  Both sections are gated.

 Scottsdale Country Club Real Estate
There are a total of 620 single family homes, patio homes, townhomes and condominiums in this master planned community gated community.
 
The west side: (located to the west of Hayden Road)
  • On the Green: 36 single level homes constructed from 1984 - 1991  
  • Scottsdale Country Club: 40 homes (25 single level & 15 two level properties) constructed from 1984-1990 
  • Scottsdale Country Club Two: 5 single family homes constructed from 1991-2007
  • Scottsdale Country Club Four: 112 patio homes (102 single level & 10 two level properties) constructed from 1996-1999 
  • Sovanna Condominiums: 174 condos constructed 203-2004
The east side: (located to the east of Hayden Road)
  • Scottsdale East Nine: 253 single level single family and patio homes constructed 1986-2001. The exterior homes are all custom homes while the interior properties are larger patio homes constructed by Colombia Properties.

The Scottsdale Country club is designed around the 27 hole Starfire Golf club. There are three nine-hole courses (the King, the Hawk and the Squire) that are played in three combinations of 18 holes each with excellent views of either Camelback Mountain or the McDowell Mountains viewed on almost every shot!

Reveiw the properties currently available in the various Scottsdale Country Club community:   

Search the Scottsdale MLS for properties in the Scottsdale Country Club

Contact Gary and Claudia Scott, REALTOR®, GRI  

Reach us toll free at -   866-464-2140  
 or e-mail at Garyandclaudia@cox.net 

Be sure to check out Gary and Claudia's
Blog:  http://claudiascott.activerain.com
Website www.AZ-real-estate-sales.com

0 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • October 01 2008 02:28PM