Community Garden - Start one

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Home for the Holidays: Selling a Home During the Christmas Season

Home for the Holidays: Selling a Home During the Christmas Season

Easy Ways to Green Your Heating This Winter

21
November

Easy Ways to Green Your Heating This Winter

Posted by Green Life Staff

Winter is coming and with it the high heating bills not to mention the amount of gases that are sent into the air we breathe.  The winter season does not have to be spent wrapped in a blanket or thermal wear and turning the heat full blast.  There are many simple ways you can stay warm and keep the air you breathe cleaner.

One of the simplest ways most people do not even think of when they are considering the cold winds blowing is their windows.  The windows are one source of cold air that adds to the work your heating system is doing when it is struggling to keep the temperature at the setting you have chosen.

If you do not have storm windows or cannot afford them right now, the next best alternative is to get plastic insulation.  It is clear so you can still see out your windows.  The type that can be fitted by heating is a good alternative to letting the windows add to the cold air in the room.  You will be surprised just how much of a difference this can make in your home.

Another way that is often overlooked and will work for both heat and air is the ceiling fan.  They are not as expensive as they once were and one with a low setting that turns slowly can spread the heat or air.  Everyone knows heat goes up so what better way to push it back down to where you are than to put up an inexpensive ceiling fan and enjoy the warmth.

Solar power is one source of energy that many people are finding is a great alternative to electrical power.  There are many solar appliances becoming more commonplace today.  For instance, there are many solar hot water heaters in use.  This is an excellent way of heating your water.  Solar panels are being installed in roofs to capture the warmth of the sun and distribute it to many different household uses.  Much of the recent news about solar power is concerned with using it to actually generate electricity to save on your utility bills.

Here is another way of saving on heating bills as well as energy.  The rooms that you do not use do not need to be as warm as the ones you are spending your time in.  Besides which the rooms you are in until time to retire will be warmer just by having more people in them.  Everyone generates body heat and if there are several people in one room the temperature will go up by more than you would think possible.  By keeping doors closed and confining activities to certain areas of the house you will be using less energy and utilizing something you already have.  This can also be a way to save energy when you are not home.

By turning the thermostat down to a cooler setting, you are saving energy that would just be wasted when the house is empty.  Many people use timed thermostats for this purpose - turning the heat on/up just before rising in the morning, before everyone is due to be home, and this can also be used for turning the hot water tank on and off.

Get the whole family involved.  Sit down together and make a list of everyone’s suggestions when it comes to saving energy and making the air we breathe cleaner.  You might be surprised at some of the ideas your family will come up with.

Photo by: charles taylor -

via agreenliving.net

I just love Green Life, great tips and a Great Blog - start a Green Life NOW!!! Even know we live in Phoenix it still get cold...

Posted via web from Living in Phoenix-Real estate-Neighborhoods & Homes

HAppy Thanksgiven

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10874 W. Edgemont, Avondale, AZ Send to Friend 3/2 W/ POOL - Just in time for CHRISTMAS!! FAMILY HOME for RENT

Home is located on a quiet cul-d-sac in popular Upland Park - very close to all the freeway connections I10 & 101 Loop. be in your HOME for Christmas and Relax this summer in your sparkling pool. Low maintenance yard , front and back, *Pool Service Included*gives you more time to play in your pool. Custom desert colors throughout and large 18' tile in all the right places. Bedrooms have carpet. Oversized master bedroom with sitting area. Kitchen has island and large pantry. Dont forget to Bring the DOG! Please call Linda to view 602-391-8246 Avail 12/09/2009 ..

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federal tax credit will be extended through April 30, 2010

Congress has extended and expanded the Home buyer Tax Credit and President Obama is expected to sign tomorrow.  All changes to the current credit will be effective when he signs the Bill.  The new extension will be through April 30, 2010 and close by July 1, 2010 with the credit continuing to be $8,000 with the previous first-time buyer eligibility requirements.  In addition there will be current homeowner credit of $6,500 ($3,250 married filing separately).
Income limits for a single person have been increased from $75,000 to $125,000, married from $150,000 to $225,000 with a limitation of cost of the purchased home being $800,000.

 the federal tax credit will be extended through April 30, 2010, with a 60-day extension if a binding contract is in place prior to the deadline. First-time home buyers will continue to be eligible for a tax credit of up to $8,000, while existing homeowners will be eligible for a reduced credit of up to $6,500. To qualify for the $6,500 credit, existing homeowners must have lived in their current residences for at least five years.

Zero chance of another extension so between now and April 30th make your decision to buy if you want to take advantage of the tax credit and the investment in real estate makes sense for your individual circumstances.

This is Funny!!!!

Estrella Mountain Ranch Real estate For Sale $144,900

Call Linda 602-391-8246

$144,900

WOW, WHAT A PRICE ON THIS FANNIE MAE OWNED HOME!!!THIS HOME IS A GREAT SINGLE LEVEL HOME WITH 3 BEDROOMS WITH A DEN, TILE IN ALL THE RIGHT PLACES, LARGE OPEN FLOOR PLAN, AND MUCH MORE...TO TOP IT ALL OFF IT'S LOCATED IN ESTRELLA MOUNTAIN RANCH!!HURRY THIS ONE WON'T LAST LONG!!!Keller Williams Realty Professional Partners 

Call Linda Wieczorek   602-391-8246 

                

Avondale, AZ Realeatate Perfect for INVESTOR! $25,000

$25,000 Steal of a DEAL 

Linda Wieczorek 602-391-87246

CALL Linda 602-391-8246

601 N 4th ST C Avondale, AZ     $25,000

MOVE-IN READY!! HOME FEATURES: 2 MASTER BEDROOMS UPSTAIRS, EACH WITH OWN BATH. LARGER OF 2 MASTERS HAS A WALK-IN CLOSET. 3RD BEDROOM DOWNSTAIRS WITH LARGE HALF BATH. LAUNDRY CLOSET IN HALF BATH. OPEN SPACIOUS FLOORPLAN AT 1340 SQ FT. 1 CAR GARAGE AND 1 CAR CARPORT.. Liberty One Realty,LLC                                       601 N 4th ST C Avondale, AZ     $25,000

Do You Qualify For HAMP?

Are you still l trying to Modify your Home LOAN  with NO LUCK!! Check this video out

Landlords Are Charging How Much? How to Find Out

                                                 Here’s a cool, new resource a whole bunch of folks will find useful…
Want to know what landlords are asking for rents in the areas where you invest?  Maybe you’re a landlord and want to spy efficiently on your competition?  Or a virtual investor trying to quickly ascertain rents from afar?

At it’s core, PadMapper keeps near real time track of the rents landlords are advertising in a myriad of national sources like Craigslist, Apartments.com, Oodle, etc.
When you search a city, zip or address, what you get back is a big ole interactive Google map showing where the apartments are.  And using filters you can eliminate listings you’re not interested in for whatever reason, and hone in on the ones that you are.
Whenever I’m wholesaling deals to landlords, rents are of course always a key factor in their assessment.  So I’ve always found it important to have my mind wrapped around market rents (seeing the market through your buyer’s eyes) and PadMapper just made that even easier.

Handy TIPS

• Keep in mind the results are far from exhaustive…but still very useful.  And the number of markers that can be displayed onscreen at once is limited to roughly 100, since it becomes choppy in some browsers (Internet Explorer) with more.
• The filtering does it’s best to reserve those 100 spots for apartments you’re more likely to like.
• You can setup cool email alerts (really useful if you’re actually apartment hunting)
• As a landlord, you can also submit your own “pad” to be listed among their results if you don’t see it there already.
• If there’s a big area that’s empty that probably shouldn’t be, zoom in on that area. If that doesn’t help, try easing up on your filters. Also, try moving any large clusters of apartments you’re not interested in offscreen by dragging the map or zooming.
• Zooming in very close shows some cool local attractions around apartments (not available everywhere)

Borrowers Should Be Aware of the Effects Foreclosures, Bankruptcies and Shorts Sales Will Have on Their Credit

Author: Christina Inman     

For homeowners facing foreclosure or bankruptcy–or considering a short sale of their property to avoid one or both–the effect the action will have on their credit is undoubtedly a huge concern. Though keeping their homes might not be an option at this point, there could very well be another one in the not-too-distant future, so knowing when they’ll be eligible to qualify for another mortgage is important.

Be Aware of the Rules of the Road

Earlier this year, Fannie Mae updated its credit guidelines for borrowers who experience one of these circumstances. And, in general, the wait time will now range from two to five years.
Homeowners who lose their properties to foreclosure or file multiple bankruptcies within a seven-year period will have the longest wait–five years.
In the case of foreclosure, additional requirements and restrictions will apply after five years and up to seven years as well, which include making a minimum 10% down-payment, having a credit score of at least 680, and having limited cash-out refinance options. Also, the purchase of second homes or investment properties is not permitted.
A shorter time limit (three years) does apply to both foreclosures and multiple bankruptcy cases if the borrower had what Fannie Mae considers to be “extenuating circumstances” that led to the foreclosure. Of course, the borrower must provide evidence and documentation that the action resulted, from, in their words, “…nonrecurring events…beyond the borrower’s control that result  in a sudden, significant, and prolonged reduction in income or a catastrophic increase in financial obligations.”
Borrowers who experience a deed-in-lieu foreclosure must wait the next longest period–four years. However, if they suffered what Fannie Mae considers extenuating circumstances, then they too can qualify to have their waiting period shortened (in this case to two years).
Bankruptcies–with the exception of Chapter 13 judgments–also mean a four-year wait from the discharge or dismissal date unless–once again–extenuating circumstances apply. In that case, the wait is cut in half to two years as well.
Two years is the standard waiting period for pre-foreclosure or short sales (whether the mortgage was delinquent or not), as well as Chapter 13 bankruptcy judgments. There are no exceptions permitted for extenuating circumstances, however.

Requirements to re-establish credit

In all cases, there are several requirements that must be met before credit can be reestablished. These include:

• Having all accounts current as of the date of the mortgage application
• Including a minimum of four credit references (one of which must be housing-related and cover the period following the foreclosure, bankruptcy or short sale)
• Include no more than two installment or revolving debt payments thirty days past due in the last twenty-four months, or any payments sixty or more days past due since the discharge or dismissal of the bankruptcy or the completion of the foreclosure-related action. 

Of course, this is a general overview of Fannie Mae’s new credit guidelines; for more detailed information, please visit their web site.
Knowledge is power, and knowing the credit consequences of the various actions mentioned above can help a homeowner in financial trouble decide which course to pursue. As an agent, having this information to pass along to your clients, and having a resources behind you to help keep you updated on the latest legislation and guidelines—as well as help you provide them with foreclosure-prevention options—can help make you their super hero!
Author: Christina Inman 

Want to be a landlord? Here are some points to consider.

Pointers To Consider As A Real Estate Investor

When researching the income potential on a piece of property, here are a few things to consider.
You should:

• Be comfortable with your financing strategies. The bottom line here is whether you can afford to take on a significant investment that can potentially occupy a lot of your time and money.
  
• Talk to other property owners and pick their brains. Find out what it’s like to be a landlord by talking with other rental property owners of similar properties to get several perspectives on the realities of the business.
• Check sales comparisons. Determine going rates for similar properties and what gets covered in the pricing of rental units for sale.
• Consider the possibility that not all units will be rented immediately, leaving you with a lower amount of income in the first few months.
• Know what your basic expenses are going to be: start out by tallying up the amount of your monthly mortgage payment as well as the cost of your property taxes. Property taxes that are paid yearly can be divided by 12 to get a monthly tax figure.
• Check into the cost of insurance for your property and what the policy will cover on the rental property. Estimate the cost of the premium in monthly increments.
• Consider what the rental price will cover for your tenants. Some landlords opt to pay for some utilities such as sewage, water, and heat while others choose to pay for nothing extra. There are pluses and minuses to each decision, especially if you choose to pay some of the bills. Be prepared for tenants who may take advantage of the “free” services and utilities that you offer and consider these factors when calculating your potential costs.
• Account for the cost of advertising and marketing the property to potential renters. If you plan on requiring credit checks or other requirements for prospective tenants, make sure you know what costs will be incurred.
• Look into hiring a property manager if you’re unable to dedicate much time on your rental units. Being a landlord will require a time commitment and depending on your level of experience as a landlord or on the number of units you own, it may be a challenge to perform the work of a property manager if you are not a full-time investor. If the work and effort is something you can’t muster, you may want to outsource some of the real estate management tasks involved.
• Estimate the amount of money that will be spent annually on maintenance and repairs. To achieve a ballpark figure for a monthly amount, take the amount equal to 1% of the value of the property and divide it by the number 12 to get a figure for the cost of monthly cleaning, maintenance, and repairs.
• In addition to the repair costs, take into consideration other requests from tenants for replacements of items like window screens, faucets, door locks, along with other reasonable requests.
• Remember to ask for, and hold on to security money given to you by tenants. Have this money available in the event that a tenant requires a refund of the deposit, or in the event that a unit needs repair work after a lease expires.
• Carefully weigh your expected income against the expenses you’ll incur as a landlord. Consider the pros and cons of the “land lording equation.” Once you’ve estimated the figures for both income and expenses from a given property, you’ll need to subtract the expense total from the monthly income that you anticipate in order to calculate the cash flow of your rental property. If the cash flow you’ve calculated is positive, you’re one step closer to ascertaining that the profit is well worth the investment.

If you’re considering the possibility of investing in rental property, you’ll need to do quite a bit of research and preparation. Not everyone is suited to be a landlord, and if you’re not careful, your rental property investment could lead to larger financial concerns. If your rental property does not produce a positive cash flow, you could essentially go broke by attempting to become a landlord.
As mentioned, one basic element you’ll need to consider with rental properties is the concept of cash flow. Simply put, cash flow is defined as the amount of money made on a piece of property versus the amount of money you must expend on the property. If after you’ve collected all of the rent and paid all of your property-related bills you find that you’ve still got money left over, well then you’ve got a positive cash flow situation. On the other hand, if you’re unable to meet your housing expenses with the current income you’re generating from your rental real estate, then you may just be in a pickle as you’ve got a negative cash flow. This situation is particularly unfavorable if it lasts a while, as it could chip at your personal finances over time and make saving money nearly impossible.

Selling A Home In A Slump

Despite recent trends suggesting the real estate market has hit an all time low there are still plenty of people buying homes, 1st time home buyers and home owners taking advantage of the low interest rates and upgrading to bigger homes. So how can you improve your odds of selling your home during these hard times?
Eeverything around you is telling you the market is your worst enemy, you have to figure out how to turn your luck around. Fortunately, there are ways you can do that. There are several steps you can take to make luck work for you and not against you.

• First, make sure your home is always available for showing, no matter your situation. This will improve the odds you will sell your home. Don’t let inconvenience stop you from showing your home to anyone interested.
• Make sure your home is clean all the time, even if you are not naturally a clean person.
• Have a professional real estate agent or broker come and stage your home so it presents in the best possible light. This will improve your odds of putting your best face forward and impressing potential home buyers.
• If you have pets, make sure they are contained, clean and that all pet odors are removed from the home, unless you plan to sell only to other pet owners. Even then make sure your pet materials are meticulously clean and your yard free of pet debris and waste. Having pets is fun but showing a home with pets in it can be challenging. If you leave the home for a showing take your pets with your or have them restrained so they do not scare off prospects.
• Set a competitive price if you want people to show your house and if you plan to sell your home in a tight market. You probably won’t get top dollar but you can get a fair asking price even if trends suggest the housing market is plummeting. Remember there are still people that have money and have an interest in plunking it down on a new house and worthy investment.

Million-Dollar Homes Not Immune to Foreclosure

Looking for    Luxury HOME Deals Call Linda 602-391-8246 for your FREE LIST of all  Luxury HOME

SCOTTSDALE - More and more homes in upscale neighborhoods are going into foreclosure. Real estate experts say 30 percent of the nation's foreclosures in June were higher-value homes.

How to expedite loan modifications

Better then 35% of Phoenix home owners are upside down on  HOMES  including my self. I am in the process of going for a loan modifications. I will be blogging  every step of the way.
below is some good info I found for the do it yourself er    loan modification. Dont let your time run out!!!

Here are some tips for expediting your loan modification proposal with your bank or loan servicer:
1. Be prepared. According to a video produced by Freddie Mac, you can expedite your loan modification by having the following documents and information available when you call your servicer.
• Your monthly mortgage statement (which should include your loan number and property address)
• Your homeowners/condominium fees statement
• Recent pay stubs, W2s and tax returns to document monthly pretax income
• Your Profit and Loss statement (if you're self-employed), which helps a lender determine your ability to repay your loan.
• A list of your typical monthly expenses Bank of America offers a checklist)
• Documentation from other debts, such as home-equity loans
• The balance and minimum monthly payment on credit cards, car loans and student loans
• Anything that can document why you fell behind on your loan, such as a letter from your employer about a recent layoff, a utility cancellation notice or invoices for large purchases such as a new air-conditioning unit or other item that helped cause the financial hardship.
2. Make your case.  Write a solid statement about your need for a loan modification to give to your lender or loan servicer. The hardest part of the process is writing a letter about what caused you to be in financial trouble, according to Freddie Mac. But, it’s an important step. “Write out a short statement about your financial problems,” says Simon. “Be as specific as possible. It doesn’t have to be long. This helps the servicer process your application more quickly.”
3. Phone off-peak.  It can be hard to get through to your loan servicer. “Representatives are seeing an increase in call volumes,” says Bank of America’s Simon. Calling your loan servicer at off-peak times will decrease on-hold times and increase the likelihood of speaking with a professional in a timely manner. According to Simon, off-peak times are generally in the evening in the Eastern Time Zone or late afternoon in the Pacific Time Zone.
4. Don't be sloppy. Complete paperwork accurately. After the initial call, if the homeowner qualifies for a loan modification or other workout, an application packet will be sent. According to Bank of America, about 80 percent of submitted applications have omissions or mistakes. Review everything carefully and make sure all supporting documents are signed. “Incomplete paperwork takes additional time to correct and creates more delays in the process,” says Simon.
If you can’t afford your current mortgage payment, but can pay a lower one, a loan modification can help you keep your home. And, according to Bank of America, it’s a cost effective way for lenders to avoid dealing with trying to unload another distressed property— a true win-win.
By Tracey Velt, Cyberhomes Contributor

Banks Making Short Sales Tougher

Banks are backing away from short sales, forcing sellers to pay extra at closing or demanding a promissory note for the amount due. One-third of borrowers owe more on their mortgages than their properties are worth, according First American CoreLogic.

When their situations were really tough, most banks preferred short sales because they were their best opportunity to get the most money back. But with an improving economy, and because the losses on many of these properties have already been written off the books, banks are increasingly reluctant to negotiate a short sale.

Today, banks demand 9.5 weeks to respond to a short-sale request, compared to 4.5 weeks a year ago, according to research firm Campbell Communications. Their reluctance is frequently stymieing sales and frustrating real estate practitioners.

"It drives me up a wall," says Robert G. Hertzog of Summit Home Consultants in Phoenix. "[The bank is] holding my client hostage."

Source: BusinessWeek, Christopher Palmeri (10/09/2009)

Phoenix, Arizona - Short Sale or Loan modification? Which one should I do?

There are a lot of questions to ask yourself when deciding whether to do a short sale or a loan modification. Probably the biggest one is “Do YOU want to keep the house or not?”

If you’d like to stay in the home or continue to utilize it whether it be as a rental or a second home then you definitely will want to look into a loan modification. Be sure to find a reputable Arizona loan modification company as this industry is full of scam artists. I have a great Arizona loan modification company referral for you — contact me and I’ll pass them on.

Don’t want the property? A short sale may be the answer. With a short sale, you can sell the property, have everything negotiated for you, and you can start over without the mortgage headache or the negative equity following you around for the next 15 years!

We specialize in marketing and selling Arizona short sales, we negotiate all of our short sales in house, and we have a full team of resources available to you so you can have all of your questions answered.

Contact Linda Wieczorek today so we can short sell your home tomorrow!

This video might just make you laugh- The housing market is terrible

The housing market is terrible, but this video might just make you laugh… or make you angry. Timothy Geithner is having a little trouble selling his $1.6 Million dollar house in New York.

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart	Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c
Home Crisis Investigation
www.thedailyshow.com
Daily Show Full Episodes Political Humor Healthcare Protests

Your FREE MLS Home Listings Search! Thousands of Homes at the click of a mouse

Search Foreclosed HOMES in Phoenix

Looking for a great bargain? Foreclosures allow you to buy real estate for under market value. Find great deals by searching the ARMLS Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for real estate in foreclosures. Search results are always up-to-date and in real-time.

SEARCH FORECLOSURES NOW!

Phoenix Arizona Short Sale Help

If you find yourself in a position where you can no longer afford your home and you owe more on in it than it is worth, then a short sale may be your best option. Simply put, the short sale is a means to sell your property for less than what you might owe to a lender, provided you acquire the approval of the lender. In most cases, it serves as a mean to avoid foreclosure, as most homeowners facing financial hardships or even bankruptcy qualify for this service. The short sale is a viable alternative to bankruptcy and foreclosure, as it offers a legitimate means to deal with the economic pressures you might be facing.

What reasons qualify me for a short sale?

* If you owe more than your house is currently worth, then a short sale might be the best course of action for you.

* Financial hardships, such as divorce, loss of a job, or a decline in income are also reasons to consider this option.

* If you are nearing foreclosure, then the short sale offers an alternate route that isn’t as detrimental to your credit.

* Finally, if you lack equity but are still forced to move, a short sale might be your best option.

Regardless of the reasons; pre-foreclosure consultation is an invalid and important service, and the sooner you receive it the better. Time only acts against you in this situation, so please take the time to speak with a real estate/foreclosure specialist as soon as possible. It will serve as your life vest in these troubling economic times, so don’t waste another moment worrying what to do.

Why do I qualify as a short sale specialist? Why should you call us?

I work on a team that specializes exclusively in short sale negotiations and pre-foreclosure consultations. We are all fully licensed realtors, each with years of experience. In that time, we have built relationships with all the major banks, offering invaluable contacts through which to serve and help you, the homeowner. Above all, we exist to serve you, and offer honest, confidential advice about short sales and pre foreclosure options. Contact us today if you have any questions whatsoever, and remember that we, as a team, exist for your own personal benefit.
Please call today for your FREE NO OBLIGATION CONSULTATION. We would love to work with you. Linda 602-391-8246

Cartoon predicts the future 50 years ago. This is amazing insight!

Notice how the snake oil salesman is considered a "foreign" influence. Kind of like the Israeli influence we have now. "ISM" in this cartoon could stand for "Israeli Slave Master."

Exceptional real estate investment in Phoenix, HOW bout that FHA buyer!!

Phoenix, Arizona is one of the lowest priced housing markets in the West, with exceptional real estate investment opportunities.

But..... How bout that FHA BUYER!!! or shall we call them discouraged qualified buyers.

Not only are we seeing 7-10 offers on every decent low priced REO property, but of those offers about 50% of them are all cash. This has become a problem for the First time FHA buyer, who are constantly losing out to these cash bids.

Trying to sell lender owned homes to FHA buyers can be very frustrating, very time consuming and an extremely long process. Most of the REO listing in the MLS will say they accept FHA financing but when they have other offers for either Cash or Conventional terms it seem like the FHA offer is on the bottom of the pile.

Hopefully as banks release more of their foreclosed properties and the competition lessens as we approach the holidays, sellers will again start looking at FHA buyers. It's a shame that so many will miss out on the $8000 tax credit, lets hope for an extension there.

Millions More Foreclosures Coming

Analysts have estimated the number of foreclosures on the horizon. If the economy is improving, do we really have millions more foreclosures coming? That's what we are hearing and according to the U.S. Treasury, the answer is yes. In written testimony to Congress, Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions, Michael Barr said that, regardless of the success of mortgage modification efforts, we should still expect 6 million in the next 3 years.

Mr. Barr’s testimony is certainly not welcome news for those anticipating a significant recovery in the housing market. In fact, it is an indication that significant recovery is still years away.

Recent reports have indicated that there are almost 3 million active, interest-only loans with a total value of almost $1 trillion, with loans of about $500 billion set to reset within the next 30 months. Then we have a large group of Option Arm mortgages set to recast during the next 2 years. These loans have a combined value of more than $125 billion.

The rising number of bankruptcies, up 36% in the second quarter over last year, with wealthy families filing at double that rate, creates a “perfect storm” of disastrous consequences for the housing market. With the likely prospect of millions more foreclosures coming, home prices and home sales will remain depressed until the market can achieve stabilization. And achieving stabilization will be a slow and painful process.

I can only imagine the glut of inventory stock at that point, Should make for an interesting real estate market. Full Story

If you would like a list of all foreclosed homes call Linda 602-391-8246 or send me an email azhomes4u@gmail.com

Phoenix Homeowners that need to stop Foreclosure

Phoenix homeowners that need to stop foreclosure
Attention Phoenix homeowners that need to stop foreclosure. Phoenix is ranked in the top 10 of cities with the highest foreclosure rate.

Home values are sinking and owners that are behind on payments with little to no equity and you need a solutions to stop the foreclosure process. Banks are taking back homes in your area and home prices are becoming very competitive. If you are losing equity on a house, you cant make your payments and you dont want a foreclosure on your credit a short sale might be your best option.

AZPrideProperty.com doesn't charge you to do a short sale on your HOME. Keep your money in your pocket.. This is for you if need quick solutions. Homeowners are doing short sales all around the country in order to stop their house from going to foreclosure. If you are a homeowner and your house is for sale but you lack the equity to pay a real estate agent, or pay your loan off you should contact AZPrideProperty.com to stop-foreclosure or if you need more information on what a short sale is you can go to Short sale page. Homeowners that want to submit their information via phone can by calling 602-391-8246.

Phoenix’s Windsor Square Historic District

Phoenix’s Windsor Square Historic District Announces 2010 Home and Garden Tour to be Held March 7, 2010
Historic home tour offers decorating tips, inside peek at one of most sought-after historic neighborhoods in Phoenix. This is a self-guided walking tour featuring 10 historic homes in the Windsor Square neighborhood where homes are 75 years old.


Windsor Square Historic District today announced that its 2010 Home Tour will be held Sunday, March 7. Located at Central Avenue and Camelback Road in the central corridor of Phoenix, Windsor Square is one of the most sought-after historic neighborhoods in Arizona. Presented by the Windsor Square Neighborhood Association, the biennial Historic Home and Garden tour is a self-guided walking tour featuring 10-12 historic homes and gardens in the tree lined Windsor Square neighborhood where homes rich with history are 60 to 75 years old.

Started in 1929, the 260-home neighborhood is considered to be the first “suburb” of the city of Phoenix.

From contemporary or traditional interiors to lush gardens and the latest in transitional styles, attendees will see firsthand how people live in these historic, yet modern homes. Plus, learn new interior decorating ideas and see unique approaches to the outdoors.

The tour and festivities run from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and will give enthusiasts a look at unique architectural styles in homes that date back to the 1930 and 1940’s. During the self-guided walking tour, participants will be also be able to explore fine arts and crafts from street vendors, enjoy delicious foods and hear live music. The cost for the tour is $12, and children under 12 are free.

“The residents of Windsor Square take great pride in their neighborhood and every other year we open our doors to share the rich history of our North Central Phoenix neighborhood with the public,” said Historic Home Tour Committee Chair and Windsor Square resident, Susan Myers. “This year’s will be one of our best tours yet with a wide variety of homes, each special and unique in their own way.”

Tickets will be available for purchase online in advance of the tour at www.windsorsquarephoenix.org. as well as day-of-tour at Medlock and 2nd Street, which is located one block east of Central Avenue and just north of Camelback Road. Free parking will be available. Email wshometour@cox.net with questions.

Event Details:
Event: Windsor Square Historic Home and Garden Tour
Date: Sunday, March 7, 2010
Location: Medlock and 2nd Street (one block east of Central Avenue and just north of Camelback Road

About Windsor Square Historic District
The 260-home Historic District, bordered by Central Avenue and Seventh Street, Pasadena Avenue and Oregon Avenue, was considered the first suburb of Phoenix. Started in 1929, the curvy development with charming homes was created during a time where the population of Phoenix was totaled at 70,000 people and the trolley line ended at Thomas Road. For more information visit www.windsorsquarephoenix.org.

IT'S A JUNGLE OUT THERE! a Real estate "feeding frenzy"

For Buyer's who are trying to make sense of today's crazy real estate market.
IT'S A JUNGLE OUT THERE! a "feeding frenzy" and the survivors only reap the profits. With multiple offers, contract acceptance times running anywhere from a few days to months, appraisals not coming in and with the loan programs changing almost daily. This is a market where only the well thought out plan will survive. FHA Buyers mine as well wrestle an alligator. The Feeding frenzy is here and has been here,with the majority of homes available being short sales, all with multiple offers over asking, what's a buyer to do? Especially at the lower end of our market There is no room for slow decision makers, or indecisiveness if you want a home.

With all of that said, it doesn’t mean that it’s a bad time to buy,it's a GREAT time to buy, interest rates are low and the market is affordable more then ever.The reality is, there are still a lot more short sales and foreclosures and the banks are not really making the effort to make the process any easier, which is why the market, for many, is so complicated.

Now more than ever it is important to have a Realtor you can trust, one that has your best interests at heart, an alligator wrestler, a CNE Certified Negotiation EXPERT.
Give me a call Linda 602-391-8246

What is HomePath Financing

With the number of REO properties increasing, I’m being asked more often about HomePath financing. HomePath financing is available for Fannie Mae REO’s with the HomePath logo found on HomePath.com. I’ve personally noticed a significant increase in questions about this financing so I thought I would cover the basics. First, there are two types: a Home Path Mortgage and a Home Path Renovation Mortgage. The difference being, the Home Path Renovation Mortgage will allow minor fixes to the property.

Here is a quick synopsis of the Home Path Mortgage:

Minimum 3% down for primary residence, 10% down investment property
Borrower can own up to 10 financed properties (but need 25% down if they own more than 4)
NO APPRAISAL NEEDED
NO MORTGAGE INSURANCE
High balance (jumbo) and interest only products available
Seller contributions can be 6-9% on primary residence (the larger the down payment, the larger the allowable contribution), only 2% on investment property
This loan does price with a higher rate than your average 30 year fixed conforming loan. If you want an equivalent rate to the going 30 year fixed, this loan would price with an additional approx 1% to 3.75% discount points. Keep in mind, much of this can be covered by the seller and there is no mortgage insurance. Of course one can just opt for the higher rate in lieu of the discount points.
Same basic underwriting requirements of a conforming loan, but without the property issues (appliances missing - no problem)
The HomePath Renovation Mortgage is currently only offered by 3 lenders nationwide. This will allow for light renovations to the property that can be included into the loan. Information about this specific product is scarce. In general, renovation and construction type of products work like this:

An appraisal is done “subject to” the completion of the repairs. The value will typically be the appraised value or the cost of the house plus renovations, whichever is lower. The down payment is based on this value (hence, most of the renovation work gets financed into the loan).
The loan closes and the repairs are completed by a licensed contractor within a specified amount of time
There is more involved with these types of loans, such as: bids, inspections, draw schedules, etc.
The interest rate is typically higher than your general conforming 30 year fixed
Overall, the Home Path Mortgage is a great loan. I can’t attest to the Home Path Renovation Mortgage but I’m sure it’s great loan as well. If you are “handy” and can do most of the work yourself, you may consider the Home Path Mortgage. When a lender is going to finance renovation work, they will require the work to be completed by a licensed contractor so this sometimes may not work for the “do-it-yourself er”.

Phoenix Bank Owned Homes | Greater Phoenix FREE Foreclosures For Sale | Phoenix REO MLS Search

Search REO, Foreclosure, Pre-Foreclosure, Short Sale Properties in Phoenix by map, by zip code, city, community, school and styles.

Welcome to the AZPrideProperty.com foreclosure / lender owned & pre-foreclosure / short-sale home search.

This search has been segregated already to only include pre-foreclosures and foreclosed properties.


Overall REO home prices are lower then normal homes for sale but often the REO properties are sold "as is" and they almost all need some work: some need lots of work while others just a bit of cosmetic improvements.

The process of buying an REO properties is a bit different then a normal sale but its still easier then a short-sale which has lots of risks for the buyer.

Call Linda Wieczorek to view Foreclosures 602-391-8246 or email AZhomes4u@gmail.com.

SEARCH FORECLOSURES

PHOENIX is one of the most popular cities in the entire United States!

* 2,164 single family detached homes were purchased in July 2009 vs. 1,120 last year (July 2008).

* The average price paid was $134,082 vs. $226,429 last year.

* The median price came in at $86,900 vs. $180,000 last year.

* The ratio of purchase price to list price was 103% vs. 97% last year.

* The average time on the market was 74 days vs. 86 days last year.

* There were 8,871 Active single family listings vs. 14,170 last year.



Phoenix (and the greater metropolitan area) is being impacted by bank owned (foreclosed/REO) properties continuing to hit the market in record numbers. As a result, several unique conditions currently exist:

The selection of available homes for sale in Phoenix is good, but significantly less than just a few months ago. Regardless of the price point, many of the bank owned (foreclosed/REO) properties are in deplorable condition (trashed/stripped by former owners and/or vandalized after being vacated/abandoned), but perhaps 10-20% of them are in terrific locations, have quality upgrades and a private pool, and are in move-in condition. There are also hundreds of single family homes, townhouses and condos in Phoenix that are on the market by homeowners who want or need to sell their homes, many of which are in outstanding condition and priced quite aggressively.

Prices in Phoenix have fallen to the point where many nearly new homes are actually priced below current comps/appraisals. Some areas have seen prices correct downward by as much as 50%. Home prices are extremely attractive and affordable in virtually every area of Phoenix, including gated communities and waterfront properties, and are arguably at or near rock-bottom levels.

In spite of the sub-prime lending crash that started in 2006, and national banking/liquidity crisis that surfaced in 2008, mortgage loans in Phoenix are still readily available. Credit requirements are more stringent than they were in recent years, but solid loan products and pre-approvals are indeed accessible. Several loan products have made a roaring come-back, including FHA loans requiring only a 3.5% down payment and VA loans requiring no down payment.

Mortgage interest rates continue to hover in an historically low range. Like most everything on this planet, the reasons for such super-low mortgage interest rates are numerous and complex. The obvious benefit is that many buyers are indeed able to finance their home purchases. And given the tremendous choice of homes and almost unbelievable pricing, bargains, deals and steals in Phoenix are happening daily.

The result of the foregoing conditions ~ abundant supply of homes, extraordinarily low prices, availability of mortgage financing and low interest rates ~ is a noticeable, steady increase in buying activity in Phoenix. Properties that are priced aggressively and in above-average condition (bank owned or not) are often drawing multiple offers and selling in just a few days.

Whether your interest is in single family homes, town homes or condos... and whether you're focused on bank owned (foreclosed/REO) properties, pre-foreclosures, short sales or homes being offered by traditional homeowner-sellers... and whether you're looking for smaller, larger, older, newer, waterfront, gated, private pool, no pool, active adult, horse property, mountain views or any other type of home in Phoenix, we're here to serve you and help you find and purchase just the right home at just the right price.

For FREE access to ALL of the currently available listings in Phoenix (or anywhere in the Valley of the Sun), simply go to AZPrideproperty.com

For FREE email delivery of ALL of the currently available listings that meet your exact wants and needs, or FREE access to a customized website where all of the details on all of the homes are displayed and updated daily ~ including photos, virtual tours, property features and even addresses ~ simply email AZhomes4u@gmail.com No registration required!



For fast, friendly, professional information and assistance regarding homes in Phoenix, email AZhomes4u@gmail.com, or call 602-391-8246. We'll respond to you quickly and courteously, by email or phone, whichever you prefer. No pushy salesmen! No pressure! No obligation! We take pride in your investment.

6 Historic Willo Homes

Willo Neighborhood History
Nestled in the very heart of urban Phoenix, Willo was once the epitome of suburbia - a collection of subdivisions on the outskirts of the small, but thriving metropolis of Phoenix. The Willo neighborhood between 7th and Central Avenues can be divided into two sections. J. P. Holcomb used a Homestead Patent in 1878 to acquire and settle the southern portion of Willo between Encanto Blvd. and McDowell. Mr. Holcomb acquired the northern portion, between Thomas Rd. and Encanto Blvd. in 1886 through a Timber Culture Land Patent.

For the next 20 years or so, the land was primarily for agricultural purposes and lay on the outskirts of town. In the early 1900's, four subdivisions were platted, containing home sites with long narrow lots. In the early 1920s, Home Builders, a residential construction firm, built 41 homes in the Bungalow style. During the mid to late 1920s Phoenix, like the rest of the West, experienced tremendous growth and a building boom.

Standards were set for residential construction, and "exhibition houses" (now called model homes) were developed to market the new construction. Most of the building activity in Willo during this period occurred in the N. Kenilworth and Broadmoor subdivisions, and included a "Spanish Rancho Home" exhibition house.

During the 1930's the Period Revival movement brought tremendous variety in architectural styles, including Tudor Revival, Greek Revival, American Colonial Revival, Spanish Colonial Revival and Pueblo Revival. However, the Depression brought construction to a near standstill. The mid to late 1930s and the development of the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) brought construction back to Willo. Construction from this period and later years often featured French Provincial and Monterey styles, with an architectural design that would eventually become what we know today as the Ranch Style house. Construction was also more standardized due to the influence of the FHA and other government-imposed standards. Most of these newer homes are found in the northern section of Willo.

In all, 22 separate subdivisions were platted and developed in Willo by various entrepreneurs from the turn of the century up to the beginning of WWII. Eventually, with the growth of Phoenix over the last century, the individual subdivisions platted by early developers were forgotten and the area blended into one cohesive whole. Unfortunately, the amazing growth of the city resulted in the encroachment of commercial development on what were once quiet suburbs. In the 1980s, residents of Willo successfully lobbied for status as a special conservation district, achieving historic status and assuring that this beautiful part of Phoenix history will be preserved for the enjoyment of future generations.

For Information on Historic Willo Downtown Phoenix Call Linda 602-391-8246

Bringing the Dream of Homeownership Within Reach

For information on the $8,000 TAX CREDIT call Linda 602-391-8246

As part of its plan to stimulate the U.S. housing market and address the economic challenges facing our nation, Congress has passed legislation that grants a tax credit of up to $8,000 to first-time home buyers.

Here is more information about how the 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit can help prospective home buyers become part of the American dream.

Breaking news: Tax Credit Can Be Used on Closing Costs.

Who Qualifies?
First-time home buyers who purchase homes between January 1, 2009 and December 1, 2009.

To qualify as a “first-time home buyer” the purchaser or his/her spouse may not have owned a residence during the three years prior to the purchase.

Which Properties Are Eligible?
The 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit may be applied to primary residences, including: single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and co-ops.

How Much Will the Credit Be?
The maximum allowable credit for home buyers is $8,000. Each home buyer’s tax credit is determined by two factors:

The price of the home—the credit is equal to 10% of the purchase price of the home, up to $8,000.

The buyer's income—single buyers with incomes up to $75,000 and married couples with incomes up to $150,000—may receive the maximum tax credit.

If the Buyer(s)’ Income Exceeds These Limits, Can He/She Still Get a Credit?
Yes, some buyers may still be eligible for the credit.


The credit decreases for buyers who earn between $75,000 and $95,000 for single buyers and between $150,000 and $170,000 for home buyers filing jointly. The amount of the tax credit decreases as his/her income approaches the maximum limit. Home buyers earning more than the maximum qualifying income—over $95,000 for singles and over $170,000 for couples are not eligible for the credit.

Will the Tax Credit Need to Be Repaid?
No. The buyer does not need to repay the tax credit, if he/she occupies the home for three years or more. However, if the property is sold during the three-year period, the credit will be recouped on the sale.

Green Home Remodeling Tips

The Scottsdale Green Building Program offers a wealth of tips for homeowners, whether you're remodeling, building or looking for a green home. Even if you're just trying to reduce your energy costs, these tips can really help:


• Lighting – use compact fluorescent bulbs. Newer fluorescent bulbs offer a soft white light that mimics a regular light bulb, yet uses 75% less energy. The best targets are 60-100W bulbs used several hours a day.


• Appliances – The energy cost to run appliances over its lifetime is much greater than the purchasing cost. It makes good economic sense to buy energy efficient appliances. Your refrigerator is likely the largest energy consumer in the house, so think about replacing your refrigerator if it is old. Look for Energy Star labeled appliances.


• Water heaters – If you don’t have an insulating blanket on your water heater, consider getting one. It will pay for itself in less than a year. If you need to replace a water heater, think about an on-demand tank less water heater. A tank less water heater does not hold any water, so it does not need to be turned down for vacations, there is no risk of failure like that of a tanked heater that can spill many gallons of water and ruin your floor. They use less overall energy, since no water is kept hot in a tank. Gas tank less water heaters are generally more efficient. You will need to have your house checked to ensure your gas lines are sized properly. Whole house tank less heaters start at about twice as much in cost as a normal tanked water heater. Other possible disadvantages include limited hot water flow when there are multiple fixtures running at one time. As another alternative, consider a recirculating hot water system. This involves installing a pump to circulate hot water on a loop between the most remote plumbing fixture and the water tank. In order to conserve energy, the circulation pump only operates when hot water is required by means of an activation button or timer.


• Windows – South-facing windows offer a great opportunity to absorb free energy (winter sunlight) while north-facing windows provide uniform lighting throughout the year. East- and west-facing windows are subjected to intense morning and afternoon sunlight causing significant summer heat gain. Consider installing low-e double pane windows for at least the east and west windows. Look for a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of 0.40 or less. As a least-cost alternative, consider exterior shading devices such as an overhang (at least 10 feet), trellis, vertical/horizontal louvers, screen wall, or vegetation such a trees.


• Day lighting – Consider adding natural light sources to reduce the need for artificial light. Light tubes appropriately placed and exterior shaded windows are good ways to enhance natural light with minimum heat gain in existing homes. I have 4 of these in my home and the kight is amazing.

Staging on a Budget

Was reading Realtor Magazine and found these Great Ideas on home staging I wanted to share.

REALTOR® Magazine asked readers of our Daily Real Estate News e-mail to send in their best tips for sprucing up listings on the cheap. Here are some of the quick, creative ideas that poured into our inbox.

Ideas for:

•Living Room
•Bedroom
•Bathroom
•Color and Lighting
•Kitchen
•De-cluttering
•Exteriors
•Special Touches

LIVING ROOMS

Create a Focal Point

"Pick out the most visible corner and put a large plant—I've found that silk trees work best. Set up a spotlight behind it so it lights up the leaves and throws an interesting shadow on another wall. It really makes a difference in a person's perception of the space, especially if it's a large room without too much natural lighting."

—Izabela Stone, Keller Williams Realty, Apollo Beach, Fla.


Set Up a Chat Room

"Be sure that the living room furniture is positioned for conversation as well as entertainment. Potential buyers should be able to easily envision sitting in a space where they can easily talk without having to move a chair or turn completely around."

—Rana Lindhorst and Troy Schmidt, Prudential One Realty Centre, Edwardsville, Ill.


Get Rid of Carpet Dents

"Furniture often leaves indentations in the carpet. When a piece of furniture is moved, I tell my clients to put medium-sized ice cubes in the imprints. As the ice melts, it causes the compacted carpet to expand and erase those imprints."

—Shawn Moss, Century 21 C.R. O'Neil & Co.


Accent Special Features

"Place an accent by a home's feature, such as an attractive plant near a fireplace to draw the eye to it or a tall palm or two in place that directs the buyer toward another part of the home or suggests a separation of areas. This also ensures that someone often enters the home to care for it."

—Susan Cramer, HomeSmart Real Estate, Temecula, Calif.


Invoke the Outdoors

"Use a little nature in each room. I create a flow throughout the home using cuttings, flowers, dried flowers, whatever will work. Simple things, such as twigs to spell out a word or a small cutting tied with raffia around a pillow on a bed, draw the eye into the room but don't overpower it. I have even used a branch cutting to make a 'tree' in an empty corner. I try to use one piece of nature in each room to create an ongoing theme throughout the home. It works with any type of decor, whether it's modern or traditional. One important note: Always check for insects!"

—Lauren Scurlock, North Star Real Estate Inc., Virginia Beach, Va.

and of course here is mine, Linda Wieczorek Arizona Elite Properties., Phoenix AZ

Outdoor Space Takes Centre Stage in Phoenix AZ

Playing up the outdoor space can increase the use able square footage as well as highlighting a lifestyle, when I am out showing property it's is the out door living that wows me and most of my clients.

1st When a client drives up to your home, you want them to feel invited, to feel excited to view the inside of your home,and that happens by having a clean front yard.. Add a few flower pots,a door mat, hose the front sidewalk, get rid of the weeds, hose the house off, it gives the front of the home a fresh look. Just a little elbow grease goes a long way.

Personalize your outdoor living space with items such as: Yard art (fountains. unique walking stones, stakes, sculptures, wind chimes, weather vanes, flags and colorful windsocks. Use trellis and garden arbors or Stepping-stones to break up and to connect other areas of the space. Welcome birds by utilizing birdhouses and decorative feeders. Don’t forget to use colorful plants in the ground, pots, railings, window boxes, and/or hanging baskets.

Evening lighting will always add interest and drama so use candles throughout your seating space and string lights to accent an arbor, railing, umbrella, or put them in your trees for light and sparkle. There are solar lights that can be used as a floodlight to highlight trees or garden statuary or fountain. Also use solar lighting to line a walking path, pathways, around gardens, railings and window boxes. These are inexpensive and free to operate. A little goes a long way.

Fireplaces help to warm the space in many ways and are available in many different styles, from built-ins to small mobile types. These help to extend your comfort into the evening hours and add a lot of ambiance.

Avoid Foreclosure, Have you lender forgive your debt

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Owe nothing,
Save your credit!

Foreclosure can be an extremely stressful situation to deal with alone.
We can help. We want to help you find the best possible solution to get back on your feet. What we offer is an alternative to foreclosure to help save your credit, your finances, and your piece of mind. Your situation may not be as impossible as it seems.

The difficulty of the situation for you right now is completely understandable and there is indeed light at the end of the tunnel. Thousands of good people just like you have found themselves in similar situations. The solution many of them chose was the Worry Free Short Team.

We are qualified to do whatever it takes to solve your real estate or mortgage issue while keeping your credit in good standing. Give us a call today to find out how we can help at ABSOLUTELY NO CHARGE TO YOU.

Proudly serving Goodyear,Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Queen Creek, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Surprise, Glendale and other Phoenix, Arizona surrounding areas.

Have questions? Contact Linda NOW!

Grab a Scottsdale Arizona Bank Forclosure NOW!! Bank wants SOLD NOW!!

I want my Scottsdale HOME!!! Interested in viewing? Contact Linda 602-391-8246.

Think you cant AFFORD to BUY ? Think AGAIN !!!!

6 Goodyear AZ Bank Owned HOMES!!

NEW LISTINGS & FORECLOSURES the 1ST day thay hit the market, To use Market Watch just fill out the questionnaire and you will receive email notification of all new properties that match your home buying criteria sent to you FREE of charge and without obligation. The best properties sell fast, often before they are advertised or the sign goes up. So instead of scouring the paper and driving around the neighborhood just looking for an open house, MARKET WATCH sends you instant email notification before other buyers even know about them. You get first pick of all the homes that interest you and the ability to beat other Phoenix buyers to make an offer. Sign UP Right here

Whats Going on in the Historic Willo Neighborhood in Phoenix

As of April 18,2009 ONLY 18 Homes for sale in the Willo. This is the best time to own that home in the Willo. contact Linda 602-391-8246

NAR ECONOMIC AND MARKET WATCH QUARTERLY REPORTS

This last month homes have been flying off the market. Check these charts out!!
it is nice to see the Phoenix market pick-up and properties starting to sell. NOW 2 land one of thos DEALS!!

View the number of Residential (Class 1) listings added monthly or view sales activity charted by Average List/Sales Price and Median List/Sales Price. These charts cover years 2001 - 2009.

2001 - 2009 New Listing Chart

2001 - 2009 Sold Charts
This report is produced by the National Association of REALTORS using data supplied by ARMLS.

Goodyear/ Avondale Bank foreclosures

Search the MLS Listings FREE, to see what opportunities are waiting in your own backyard. SEARCH HERE

Five Reasons to Invest in Phoenix Real Estate

If you are a real estate investor, then you understand how important it is to have a knowledgeable Phoenix realty in your corner, helping to find the right properties at the right prices for you.

The TOP five reasons why it makes sense to invest in Phoenix AZ real estate.

Phoenix is a popular spot for "snowbirds," or retirees who come to live in the area during its notably warm and pleasant winter months. Many of these retirees are looking to permanently move to Phoenix, and would be interested in the properties we have to offer. I am seeing an increadable increase of retirees from Florida and California Area.

Another reason why Phoenix real estate is a smart investment is that the population here is growing rapidly as the economy diversifies. You will find people moving here because of the great job opportunities in government, the research being done at Arizona State University, and the many high-tech and telecom companies that have moved to the area. All About Phoenix

Investors focus on Phoenix real estate because the geography and natural habitats draw many people to live in Phoenix due to its proximity to several beautiful parks.; Places like Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park with its botanical collection, the famed Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park in Phoenix, the 16,500 acre South Mountain Park and others draw new residents to Phoenix on a regular basis

Sports fans use their love of their favorite games as an important reason for moving to Phoenix, and this brings more home buyers to the area. Phoenix is proud to be called home for the Cardinals football team, the Diamondbacks major league baseball team, the Phoenix Suns NBA and the Phoenix Mercury Women's NBA teams, as well as the Phoenix Coyotes ice hockey and Arizona Sting lacrosse teams.; Major league baseball teams, nine in number, also conduct spring training in Phoenix, and this is another draw that brings sports enthusiasts to the area to buy homes.
All About Phoenix

Golfers from around the world come to Phoenix to golf during its 320 days per year of sun, and many dream of buying Phoenix real estate so that they can enjoy golfing here on a permanent basis.; You will find famous courses such as the Arizona Biltmore-Adobe Course, The Legend at Arrowhead Golf Resort designed by Arnold Palmer, and the Superstition Springs Golf Club that has been a PGA Tour qualifying site are big reasons why golfing enthusiasts move to Phoenix
The Legacy Golf Resort
Talking Stick Golf Club (South)
Whirlwind Golf Club (Devil's Claw)
Estrella Mountain Ranch Golf Club

As a Experienced Real estate professionals in Phoenix I can help you understand the local market conditions, as well as help you analyze the information in Phoenix Housing Sales Reports so that you can make smart investment choices in Phoenix. I work with investors and an happy to provide you with references. 100% of the investors I have worked with in the past have returned in 2009 to once more invest in the Phoenix market. Please e-mail or call linda Wieczorek 602-391-8246.

Invest in Phoenix Real Estate

HOW TO APPEAL Property Appraisal

After looking at my Property Appraisal for taxes my eyes poped out, the value went up on my home! This was not right.. I know I lost value. It was time to take on the County Assessor ........ State Board of Equalization



HOW TO APPEAL for Phoenix AZ

January 1 is the property valuation date for the following tax year. The County Assessor must mail the Notice of Value card to you no later than March 1. The assessor's opinion of the market value of the property is indicated on the postcard as "Full Cash Value". The assessor's determination of the use of the property is reflected in the legal classification as indicated on the postcard. A.R.S.§§ 42-11001 , 15101,15102 ,15103. and Title 42, Chapter 12, articles 1, 2, 3, and 4. Your Right To Appeal
If you believe the "Full Cash Value" is greater than the market value of the property - or that the legal classification is incorrect - you have two methods of appeal: Administrative or Judicial. A.R.S.§§ 42-15104,16051, 16201.


You may appeal the "Full Cash Value" or legal classification to the County Assessor where your property is located. This is the first step of the Administrative Process. Steps for this process are outlined below. A.R.S.§ 42-16051

OR You may file a petition directly with the Tax Court at any time after receiving the Notice of Value, provided you do not file an administrative appeal - but you must file it no later than December 15. This is the Judicial Process. You are responsible for expenses such as filing fees. A.R.S.§§ 42-16201 , 16202 , 16203 , 16204 , 16205 .

Administrative Process

Step 1
File a petition with the County Assessor. The filing deadline is printed on the Notice of Value card. You must file your appeal within 60 days after the card was mailed to you. A.R.S.§ 42-16051 D.

Step 2
You may request a meeting with the County Assessor's office - or submit written evidence that supports your appeal. The assessor must consider, decide, and answer all requests on or before August 15. A.R.S.§§ 42-16054 , 16055,

If you reach an agreement, no further appeal is permitted. A.R.S.§ 42-16056.

Step 3
If you do not agree with the assessor's decision, you may file a petition with the Board of Equalization for that county. The petition must be filed within 25 days of the date the assessor's decision was mailed to you. However, you may decide to bypass the Board and appeal directly to the Tax Court within 60 days. A.R.S.§§ 42-16056, 16157, 16201.

Step 4
If you are not satisfied with the Board of Equalization's decision, you may appeal to the Tax Court. Be sure to file your appeal no later than 60 days after the Board of Equalization decision is mailed to you. A.R.S.§§ 16168, 16203 .


Notice of Change Appeals
Individuals may file an appeal pursuant to A.R.S.§ 15105, supplemental notice of appeal of valuation in case of new construction, additions, deletions, splits, consolidations or change in use. These appeals are filed directly to the Board within 25 days after the the date of the assessor's notice.


Notice of Proposed Correction and Taxpayer Notice of Claim Appeals
These appeals are for correction of prior tax year records. Property owners may file an appeal to the Assessor pursuant to A.R.S.§42-16252 Assessor Notice of Proposed Correction or A.R.S. §42-16254 Taxpayer Notice of Claim within the time limits specified in the statutes. After the appeal to the County Assessor individuals may file an appeal to the County Board of Equalization or State Board of Equalization. The appeal must be filed on a form DOR82179C Petition for Review of Proposed Correction or DOR82179C-1 Petition For Review of Taxpayer Notice of Claim. File the form along with a copy of the original form DOR82179A Notice of Proposed Correction or form DOR 82179B Taxpayer Notice of Claim. Be sure to include a copy of the Assessor's decision if available. These appeals are filed directly to the Board. If filed electronically, the taxpayer must submit the requested hard copies by mail or in person.

Electronic Filing/E-Filing
Individuals may file an electronic petition according to the rules above for manual filing, but without having to mail in a form, by filling out an electronic filing via this web site. Make sure you understand the rules and the deadlines and then click here to start an individual e-filing .

Agents filing large amounts of petitions or individuals submitting many tax filings may also talk to the SBOE about sending in a bulk database filing.

Petitions rejected by the Assessor cannot be e-filed to the Board. When filing a petition that has been rejected by the Assessor, mail or deliver the original filing in addition to attaching the required information to correct the deficiencies. Petitions rejected by the Assessor for the second time must include the original of the second rejection. Petitions rejected by the Assessor after June 15 are filed directly to the Board.

Moving on a Budget

If you're one of the approximately 50 million Americans moving this year, you probably don't want to spend a fortune to get from point A to point B. With a little planning ahead, it's possible to execute a do-it-yourself move without breaking the bank.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 16 percent of all moves are work-related -- moving to find a new job or to be closer to a current job. Whatever your reason for moving, you don't have to pay a company to pack up your belongings and transport them to your new home. Here are some easy ways to move yourself and stay on budget:

* If you need to rent a truck or trailer, especially if you only have a few large items that can't fit into your vehicle, check out your local big box retail hardware store. They often rent trucks and trailers by the hour at a fraction of the cost of renting from a moving company.

* Collect free boxes from friends, family and from local grocery and liquor stores. Save old newspapers to wrap valuables in instead of purchasing expensive rolls of bubble wrap.

* Plug in the refrigerator at your new place a day or two ahead of time. Pack frozen and perishable foods in a cooler with ice packs and unpack that food into your new fridge first. Having your food melt or go bad means an additional, and expensive, trip to the grocery store.

* Pick up change of address forms, free of charge, from the post office. Request a free "welcome kit" from the local chamber of commerce in your new community. These kits contain valuable information and often include money saving coupons for local businesses.

* Pack wisely and avoid filling boxes so much that they're too heavy for you to lift without help. You'll get more done with each person carrying their own box.

* Clear a path. Before you lift a load, make sure you've got a clear path to your destination. You won't be able to see well or move obstacles out of your way once the load is in your arms.

* Use the right tools for the job. Hand trucks can be rented inexpensively and should be used to transport multiple boxes at once or smaller items of furniture. Remember that hand trucks are not good for moving items up or down stairs and are difficult to maneuver around tight turns. For large pieces of furniture, appliances, stairs and tight spaces, try the Shoulder Dolly, an ergonomically designed, patented harness system that allows users to lift with their legs and safely pick up virtually any heavy or bulky item in the home (www.ShoulderDolly.com).

Working in two-person teams, users simply strap into the Shoulder Dolly, slip the carrying strap under the item to be lifted, and then use their leg muscles to lift the weight. By using your legs (your strongest muscles), the Shoulder Dolly significantly decreases the strain and risk of injury to your lower back, hands, biceps and forearms.

* Don't end up in the hospital. When lifting a load, keep your back straight and bend your knees. Keep your head up and look straight ahead to ensure your back remains perpendicular to the ground. Hold the object securely and use the large, powerful leg muscles to lift the weight. Avoid twisting or turning at the waist when lifting. Turn your entire body by moving your hips first, which will force your shoulders to stay in line.

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