The Scott's Sell Scottsdale

head_left_image

Golf Course Lease Property in Johnson Ranch

GOLF COURSE LEASE property  in Queen Creek

Queen Creek - Johnson Ranch

Home for Lease - Queen Creek, AZ

Queen Creek, AZ

LEASE PROPERTY: Charming 3 Bedroom GOLF COURSE LOT home in the planned community of Johnson Ranch in Queen Creek. Open layout, neutral colors, split bedrooms. Golf course and mountain views. Ceiling fans, all appliances included. 

Excellent family community with community pools, spa, tennis, multiple parks, picnic pavilions, playground , clubhouse and golf course. Nearby amenities include shopping, restaurants, parks, hiking trails, golf and more!

Queen Creek. Arizona

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 • September 29 2008 10:35PM

The Short Sale Pitfall

AZ Real Estate - pitfallsWhat is a short sale? Basically, the short sale scenario occurs when a homeowner owes more on the balance of mortgage for his property than the home is worth in the current real estate market. Unfortunately, those who purchased a home or refinanced/borrowed heavily on their existing mortgage during the frenzied overinflated 2004-2005 market are at a high risk of being in the short sale position in today's declining market values. Although the majority of homeowners will opt to ‘weather the storm’ planning to remain in their home until the market eventually recovers and their home is worth at least what they purchased it for, some will be forced into either a short sale or foreclosure. Especially if they had a low rate ‘teaser’ loan expecting to refinance before the higher interest became effective and they could no longer afford the new higher monthly payment.

To qualify for a short sale, the homeowner must occupy the home and be able to prove economic/financial hardship. The lender may either forgive all or a portion of the debt and release its mortgage lien on the property, therefore allowing the sale to occur or the lender can agree to release its mortgage on the property and not forgive the deficiency, but have the seller sign a new promissory note for the balance or, in the alternative, the lender can do a combination of the two. The effect of the short sale on the homeowners credit score is less damaging than that of a foreclosure. 
The short sale is often agreed to by a bank or mortgage lender to cut their loses and prevent the more expensive foreclosure of a property. Ideally, the sale is supposed to he a ‘win-win’ for the seller, buyer and bank but that may not necessarily be true . . . . there can be many pitfalls and lots of frustration for all involved in this process.
 
Short sale transactions are processed by a the lender’s Loss Mitigation department. The sales often require the approval by investors to move forward which slows the process. Possible objectors to short sales include tax liens and mechanic's lien holders. It is even possible for junior lien holders to prevent the short sale. All paperwork must be complete to avoid being placed at the bottom of the pile waiting for the rest of the info required. It can take weeks even months for the lender to give consent for the seller to qualify for a short sale. Not only will the lender be taking a reduced amount for the outstanding principal of the loan but also incur not other costs of the transaction such as escrow fees, title charges, and brokerage commissions.
 
The lender will look to a broker to provide a price opinion by examining the condition of the house and the market value of comparable properties. Just because the owner of the property is agreeable to an offer made doesn't mean that the lender(s) will be. The lender is not obligated to accept any offers made.
 
The short sale is a time consuming, lengthy and complex process.   Although the short sale property may be a ‘good deal’ if the sale actually transpires, the short sale is not for a buyer who needs a property immediately. Before beginning the short sale course of action, sellers should seek professional tax or financial advice. The seller may be liable for income taxes on any deficiency that the seller’s lender forgives after the short sale has occurred.  The seller’s lender may not forgive any of the debt deficiency, and the seller then will be liable for said deficiency amount after closing.
 
Buyers and sellers need to ‘do their homework’ to see if the short sale situation is right for them.
 

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 • September 29 2008 10:25PM

Arizona a “Land of Diversity” . . . to the North - Flagstaff & the Grand Canyon

The Majestic Grand Canyon    
From the Majestic Grand Canyon to the rugged high desert, Arizona offers a wide variety of landscapes, climates and activities!
One of our first exploration trips when we first moved to Arizona was north through Flagstaff and on to the Grand Canyon. The city is situated just south of the San Francisco Peaks which is the highest mountain range in the state. The highest point in Arizona at 12,633 feet, is located about 10 miles north of Flagstaff in Kachina Peaks Wilderness. Flagstaff lies along the historic Route 66 and is home to Northern Arizona University. At 7,000 feet Flagstaff is nestled in Aspens and Ponderosas pines. The Coconino National Forest surrounds the area and provides many scenic views, trails and outdoor recreation opportunities. One can actually enjoy tour distinct seasons here including skiing at the Snowbowl in the winter. We found out quickly that Flagstaff is a popular place for the ‘desert rats’ to escape some of the summer heat to cool off for a few days.
Our travels continued 78 miles to the south rim of the world famous Grand Canyon where we stayed at the historic Bright Angle lodge. This is an treat that everyone should experience. The views of sunset and sunrise over the canyon are breathtaking. We eagerly hiked down in to the canyon for several hours. Remember to bring water and that going down is easier and faster that coming back up! The views are indescribable and are literally transformed with each step you take as your perspective and the lighting change. Photos do not do this landscape justice - you must experience it for yourself.
AZ - Hiking the Garnd Canyon
Over the years, we have traveled back several times always to be amazed at the never ending beauty of this creation. The outings with toddlers prevented extensive hiking but lots of exploring fun.  Then came the teenages - there was no way we could keep up with their hiking pace.  They would go ahead and wait and by the time we caught up they were ready to go again!  Now that it is just Gayr and I, we can enjoy the hikes at our leisurly pace. We hope to one day to hike down to the bottom of the canyon and stay at the rustic cabins in Phantom Ranch.
Another fun trip to the Grand Canyon is to climb aboard the Grand Canyon Railway. This restored 1920’s steam engine driven train departs from the town of Williams (east of Flagstaff) and takes about 2 1/2 hours. The 65 mile trip ends at the south rim where you have several hours to explore before your return trip to Williams. We experienced this journey with a group of friends and had a wonder time as were serenaded by wandering western minstrels, robbed by horsemen who boarded the train (fortunately captured J) and entertained by western comedians.
Much of the eastern portion of northern Arizona are the Hopi and Navajo reservations. The 27,000 square miles of unparalleled beauty includes Canyon de Chelly, Monument Valley, the ageless Window Rock Tribal Park, and Navajo Nation Veteran's Memorial. The Rainbow Natural Bridge, Four Corners Tribal Park, and Chaco Culture National Historical Park. Definitely worth an exploration trip!

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 • September 29 2008 01:28PM

Arizona is NOT just a ‘Desert’

Arizona Wild Flowers
When we opted to move from southern California to Arizona in the early 1980’s we weren't sure we would like the desert or the heat. But, the smog, crowd and cost of living in CA were incentive enough for us to give it a try. We wanted a better environment in which to raise our kids. In hindsight, it was one of the best moves we could have made. We love living here. Initially, Gary was reluctant to leave the beaches, moderate weather, mountains and entertainment venues of Orange County. However, he quickly changed his mind once we relocated and began to explore this beautiful state.
 
The Sonoran Desert is actually quite beautiful. The cacti in spring bloom offer a unique beauty offered no where else! The Phoenix metro are is surrounded by mountains offering a multi dimensional landscape. The parks, golf courses and washes provide color and vegetation. And,
Gary loves the low maintenance ‘desert landscaping’ that reduces yard work time and allows for more golf (a new sport added to his agenda once we moved to the valley). 
 
Once we were relocated and settled in our new Arizona home (might I add we purchased a home on an acre with a pool for only $4,000 more than our tiny home on a postage stamp lot in Santa Ana, CA), we began to explore our state. From the high mountains to the east and north, the high desert to the south and the Colorado river area to the west, we discovered a variety of landscapes and activities available to us within a relatively short distance. There are actually many lakes and rivers close to the metro area as well. The beaches of Rocky Point Mexico are a popular destination for many Phoenicians who can be on the beach in a short 5 hour drive.
 
There is hiking, snow skiing, boating, rock climbing, fishing, tubing, and jeep tours.
There is wine country; Indian ruins; historical cites like Tombstone and the famous ‘OK Corral’ or the mining town of Bisbee; a multitude of state and national parks including the magnificent Grand Canyon; there are multiple lakes—Lake Powell, Lake Mead, Parker Dam, Saguaro Lake and Lake Pleasant just to name a few.
The cultural entertainment venue offers multiple professional sports, special events such as the Barrett Jackson Car Show, the Arabian Horse Show, the FBR Open golf tournament; multiple first class theaters, museums, arts/crafts/culinary festivals….we didn’t give up much by leaving California to enjoy the amenities that Arizona has to offer.
Of course, it you have the urge to visit “Mickey Mouse” or want to see the lights of the Las Vegas strip, in less than a half a day and you are there.

Check out what the greater Phoenix metro area and Arizona have to offer!!!  

How Far is it???
From Phoenix to Prescott
Distance: 112 miles
Driving Time: 2.25 hours
From Phoenix to Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon
Distance: 125 miles
Driving Time: 2.5 hours
 From Phoenix to Flagstaff
Distance: 146 miles
Driving Time: 3.5 hours
From Phoenix to Grand Canyon
Distance: 247 miles
Driving Time: 4.5 hours
From Phoenix to Page and Lake Powell
Distance: 302 miles
Driving Time: 5.5 hours
 From Phoenix to Payson
Distance: 100 miles
Driving Time: 2 hours
From Phoenix to Tucson
Distance: 120 miles
Driving Time: 2.5 hours		 From Phoenix to Nogales, Mexico
Distance: 187 miles
Driving Time: 3.5 hours
From Phoenix to Yuma
Distance: 185 miles
Driving Time: 3 hours
From Phoenix to Rocky Point, Mexico
Distance: 215 miles
Driving time: 5 hours
From Phoenix to Lake Havasu City
Distance: 220 miles
Driving Time: 4 hours
 From Phoenix to Lake Havasu City
Distance: 220 miles
Driving Time: 4 hours
From Phoenix to Los Angeles, CA
Distance: 375 miles
Driving Time: 6 hours
 From Phoenix to San Diego, CA
Distance: 355 miles
Driving Time: 6 hours		 From Phoenix to Las Vegas, NV
Distance: 300 miles
Driving Time: 6 hours

  Search the Scottsdale & Phoenix 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
Blog:  http://claudiascott.activerain.com
Website www.AZ-real-estate-sales.com

 
4 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • September 28 2008 02:04PM

Make your home more energy efficient this fall

Energy SavingsThere are many ways that you can save energy - and money - by making your home more energy efficient and more comfortable as we enter the fall / winter season.
 
Here are some tips:
 
· Check windows, doors, beneath your sink plumbing and around attic eaves for any leaks or drafts: Don’t that heat the outside. Some strategically placed caulk and weather stripping can reduce the flow of warm air from escaping your home. You can reduce your home's heating and cooling costs by as much as 30 percent through proper insulation and air sealing techniques.
· Replacing old window with new high-performance dual paned energy efficient windows would improve your home's energy performance but it may take many years for new windows to pay off in energy savings to make the investment worth it to you.
· Schedule a system check-up. The expense of the inspection will be worth the cost of insuring that your heating system is operating at max efficiency.
· Consider upgrading your thermostat to a new programmable one that allows you to set timers for heating. The new models can actually cut your bill by up to 10%
· Make sure the fireplace damper is closed. (don’t forget to open it if you want to enjoy a cozy fire though!)
· Leave the drapes/curtains open to let the sunshine in during the day.
· Change your furnace filters monthly to allow the system to work less hard and use less energy.
· Turn off unnecessary lights, appliances, electronics etc. Exchange your current light bulbs with the latest technology energy saving light bulbs.
· Consider installation of alternative energy sources such as solar items.
· When replacing your current appliances always look for Energy Star labeled products — these products are energy efficient, high performing and cost effective.
· Check with your local utility company to see if there are any offers that you’re not currently taking advantage.
· Check for tax breaks and with your Homeowner Insurance Policy for savings if you add energy conserving items to your home.
· Consider installation of alternative energy sources such as solar items.
 
OK, so we don’t have to worry about extreme cold temperatures or snow in the metro Phoenix area, but we can all save energy and money by ‘winterizing’ our homes!
 
 
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
 
1 comment • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • September 26 2008 05:11PM

Does it make since for the average investor to buy real estate in this present market??

I believe that today’s real estate market offers a tremendous buying opportunity. Real estate is one of the best long term investments you can make. The price declines for homes have been dramatic in the past year offering excellent opportunities available in the Phoenix metro area. This is a ‘window of opportunity” to purchase real estate at bargain prices
 
Phoenix is no longer a flipping market but there is a renewed interest among investors returning the region. Phoenix has been one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the U.S., consistently adding more than 100,000 people to its population each year for the past eight years. Greater Phoenix is set and ready for more growth when the market turns. 
 
So, you ask “When will the market turn—do you think the real estate market has hit the bottom????”   The speculation, debates and predictions continue. Unfortunately, no one has a crystal ball to predict future markets. There are glimmers of hope and the market is gaining momentum and the long-term fundamentals are still good for Phoenix as the economic outlook remains favorable.
 
Don’t let your emotions rule you. If you don’t have a deal simply walk away. Be realistic and focus on being an opportunist. We would be happy to assist you in scouting specific areas for solid investment opportunities. 
ACG SOLD & NEW LIST PRICES 01-08

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:
0 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • September 24 2008 01:10PM

Furnished Luxury 1 bedroom condo for lease near Kierland in Sottsdale, Arizona

http://cdn-984.homes.com/c1/cgi-bin/readimage/318348984

Resort living!  Lease this stylish 1 Bd furnished condo in upscale gated community, adjacent to Kierland Commons & Scottsdale Airpark. Enjoy world class shopping, dining, golf, spas, hiking & boundless activities. Fabulous amenities include 2 pools, spa, BBQ, theater room, club house, business services and fitness center. Fully furnished light bright and open upstairs end unit - with peaceful views. Convenient to common areas, but quiet. Newly renovated W/ modern furnishings, granite counters, brand new stainless appliances, new flooring & fixtures, walk in closet, wood burning fireplace & tiled balcony.

Month to month, mulitiple months or yearly lease available  - toll free 866-464-2140

Check it out at  AZ-real-estate-sales.com  or garyandclaudiascott.point2agent.com

0 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • September 23 2008 05:53PM

Any day is a great day to play golf in AZ

Any day is a great day to play golf, especially here in Arizona where we have such favorable weather! With 200+ golf courses in the greater Phoenix area, it is usually possible to find a tee time especially in the summer months. Actually, golfing in the summer is not that bad and the prices are a bargain. There are several ‘twilight’ leagues with special rates as well. So slather on the sun screen, get your hat, sun glasses and schedule a tee time. The early morning or later afternoon tee times are the best summer golf times!
 
Recently I took a Saturday off and found a great deal on golfnow.com.  I was able to schedule a mid-morning round of 18 holes for only $19.00 at the Sheraton San Marcos Golf Resort in Chandler.  I considered the price quite reasonable considering this is a legendary course that was opened in 1913 and over the decades has hosted presidents, dignitaries and celebrities!
 
This 18 hole USPGA course is 6,626 yard course situated in a lush green setting with mature trees lining the fairway providing character and shade.  You can check in as a single or be placed in a group of other golfers as I did. It is always enjoyable to meet people from around the country or world when you play with a new group. 
 
My only complaint was that the management had delayed cutting the grass, so if you were on the fairway fringes, you could easily lose your ball….I did have to search some!
My score was not anything to write home about, but I had a great time and enjoyed the company of my newly made friends. 
 
Check out the local courses and give them a try!
 
If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property in
Scottsdale or the Phoenix metro Area of Arizona,
please give Gary and Claudia Scott, REALTOR®, GRI  a call! 
Reach us toll free at   866-464-2140  or e-mail at garyandclaudia@cox.net
Be sure to check out Gary and Claudia’s
0 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • September 23 2008 05:35PM

Entering the “fall’ season in Arizona!!

It is ‘officially’ now the fall season in the southwest! We have survived the triple digit days and monsoons of summer and now look forward to 9 months of bright mild sunny weather. This is why we ‘desert rats’ live in this beautiful state. No more AC constantly blowing on me, no more hot car steering wheels to burn my hands and no more of that “dry heat”. The “cool” summer entertainment options, including water parks, indoor shopping malls, theaters, art galleries, restaurants and museums are behind me and the outdoor activities now begin in full swing...hiking, rock climbing, biking, tennis, outdoor festivals….
 
The Diamondbacks baseball season will soon be a memory. The Suns, ASU, Coyotes and Cardinals are now the teams to follow. Hopefully, these teams will do better than the Diamondbacks did this summer! Although golf is less expensive in the summer months, it the almost perfect weather for the rest of the year brings golfers from around the world to play on the championship courses. With more than 200 courses across the Valley of the Sun, there is always a tee time to be found! I leave the golf to my husband Gary, as I do not want to add the frustration of getting that small ball into a hole to my life! After 28 years of living here, he has yet to convince me that I would actually enjoy the game.
 
Our beloved ‘snowbirds’ (those of you who are lucky enough to escape the cold winter temps around the country) are beginning to flock in. Drawn by the warm sunshine and mornings free of ice scrapers, an estimated 300,000+ snowbirds begin to arrive in early October to enjoy an Arizona “winter”.
Before you know it, those saguaro cacti and palm trees will be covered in Christmas lights and the luminaries will be lining the front path entry. That artificial tree and artificial snowman come out of storage for yet another years display . Last year our relatives from the Pacific Northwest joined us for the holidays. They loved taking photos of themselves basking in the sunshine by the pool on Christmas day to send back to those who were ‘snowed’ in for the holiday.
Ahhh, welcome to paradise!
You Know You're From Arizona If…
       >>> You run your air conditioner in the middle of winter so you can use your fireplace.
       >>> You notice the best parking place is determined by shade instead of distance.
       >>> People break out coats when temperature drops below 70 degrees
       >>> When it rains and you blog about it!!! 
If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property in
Scottsdale or the Phoenix metro Area of Arizona,
please give Gary and Claudia Scott, REALTOR®, GRI  a call! 
Reach us toll free at 866-464-2140 or e-mail at garyandclaudia@cox.net .
Be sure to check out Gary and Claudia’s
 
0 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • September 20 2008 11:44PM

People will always need a place to live….

The real estate business is a cyclical business. Over the years the cycles are affected by mortgage rates, unemployment, inflation and government policies. The latest downturn is slightly different.. Housing demand is driven by adult population growth. One of the ways to measure this growth is job growth. Although the current unemployment is less than 5%, other factors such as over supply and higher mortgage rates are effecting the ability of buyers to purchase a home. 
Consumer confidence has been low but the future is looking bright. Now is an excellent time to purchase a home as the prices have declined making homes more affordable, interest rates remain relatively low and there is still a wide variety of options available to buyers.
  • There are 5,602 available properties presently listed for sale in Scottsdale.  Of those properties 3,861 are single family, 249 are patio homes, 609 are townhomes, and 767 are condos, 79 are lofts.
  • There are 483 properties currently in escrow.
  • 813 have closed escrow from June 1, 2008 to Sept 18, 2008.
 
Remember, every down cycle is the beginning of an up cycle!
 
Check out the local Scottsdale MLS:   
0 comments • Gary and Claudia Scott - Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate • September 18 2008 01:22PM