Land of Opportunity—Arizona

With endless sunshine and minimal risk from Mother Nature’s whims (yes, we have haboobs!), Arizona is beginning to emerge as the next tech station on the global map.

Mesa, Arizona, will be the new home for a division of Apple Inc. The company name will be a magnet to attract other high-tech companies. This is a boost for the local economy and peripheral industries like housing and education.

Long known as a small business haven, metro Phoenix won the brass ring with the Apple Inc. acquisition. Maybe it’s time for you to start thinking about heading our way and joining in the housing recovery and bring your vision for your business idea.

Lana and I are here to answer questions-(623) 476-2491. Escape winter and join us, won’t you! -TF

Stay-Cations Are Hot . . . especially in Phoenix!

Stay local and beat the heat.

Another choice for a getaway is Vee Quiva (East Valley)
It is a boutique hotel so you feel welcome, it's intimate and easy to navigate.
This site brings comfort and fun into our own backyard!

Consider these details:

• Live entertainment 4-12
• A lavish event center consider having your next big event in this lavish location.
• Plan a stay for your guests or members to have the full experience.
• Happy Hour is every day.

Check out more details at WinGilaRiver.com





State of the neighborhood news from
Trilogy at Vistancia, adult resort living at the top.

Be sure to ask for the Friedman Realty Associates month-end recap—
Email your request directly to me. —TF

Maximize the Value of Your Home—4 Easy Steps

Consider that you could add up to 10% to the price of your home with a few adjustments.

1. Curb appeal—It is the first impression a person has of your house.
Does your home need painting?
Are the doors clean or entry windows clear of cobwebs and dust? Do the windows need cleaning? Is a swimming pool or hot tub in good condition?


Outdoors matter. Is your landscaping in need of maintenance?
How's the irrigation system? Tree droppings picked up?
Does your driveway need a power wash? People judge before they set foot in your home.

2. What happens when you walk in your house? 

Does your home need to be freshened up with new paint and decorator highlights?

What is the condition of your flooring—clean carpets, grout lines?

Fragrance can affect people. They may have allergies. Less is more—Avoid over spraying, floral scents and strong food aromas. A hint of vanilla or cinnamon in a simmer pot is gentle.




3. Clutter is off putting
Too much stuff around may diminish the ambiance of your home.
Clean ovens, refrigerator, and ceiling fans.

Manage clutter with containers.
Keep things off the counters because people want to imagine their own belongings in place.

4. Casual staging
Set the dining table or breakfast bar with flatware, plates and glassware.


You want your home to greet the guests, and say, "Welcome Home!"

-TF

Afraid of missing the market . . . again!

Pundits declare the sharpest rise in residential home sales since 2006. The consequence is how it quieted down investor squimishness. The higher priced homes (>$500,000) are selling quickly while inventory is down because foreclosures and short sales have dropped.

Combine the housing rise with the 25% office vacancy rate, this is an opportune time to negotiate super lease terms and move a business to Phoenix.

Come on down and write yourself into a beautiful home and choice office space.
-TF

Afraid you are missing the hot real estate market . . . again?

Latest national news is catching up with what we've know in Arizona for the past few months. Real estate is hot!

According to CNN, our home prices have risen 22.7% and the trend is moving up. We were fifth in the U.S. with a strong market uptick.This is the third quarter of growth and pundits are optimistic that the economic recovery is finally here.

Interest rates are still low, so now's the time to make your move. Combined with a 25% commercial vacancy rate, write a sharp deal on a beautiful home and bring your business to the Phoenix area!

-TF

Fun Facts: Peoria AZ Sees Population Lift-2%

Ted's Fun Facts:

• The City of Peoria (Arizona), namesake for the 1950 "settlers", who came here from Peoria, Illinois, grew by 2%.
• In Arizona, 96,000 people (2012) growth rate is expected per year.
• City of Buckeye is the 9th fastest growing city in the nation.
• The growth means a surge for business, building and services. So, now it's a good time to bring a business into the area.

-TF

Adventure Travel—Adult Summer Camp

Boomers have redefined everything that they touch. The next "big thing" is summer camp based on your passions and artistic expressions.

Two decades ago, the "City Slickers" movie starring Billy Crystal, the round up took on a new meaning as he and buddies attempted herding cattle. Hardly the Ritz, roughing it became the bragging rights attached to the experience.

Newer camps feature many choices:

• Ice skating
• Wine making and tasting
• Bird watching
• Music
• Boat building
• Writing
• Dance.

Wall Street Journal Columnist, Anne Tergesen, revealed this plethora for passions in the Encore section of the paper. An in-depth search can provide information based on your input.
Happy Camping!

-TF

There's another sport to follow in AZ!

Did you know Phoenix had a pro soccer team? Check it out at USLNation.

For all die-hard soccer fans this is a treat. The Phoenix FC played at home last Saturday against VSI Tampa Bay FC at Sun Devil Soccer Stadium.





Follow schedules at USLNation.
-TF

Just when you thought Arizona was just a desert . . .

The Navajo Nation announced the upcoming grand opening on May 24, 2013 of the Twin Arrows Casino Resort just east of Flagstaff (I-40 exit 219). For more information, please visit Twin Arrows Casino Resort online.

Arizona offers so many activities and destinations. The new casino will be another destination for Arizonans and visitors.

There is a full conference center, ideal for companies wanting a new location for their meetings and annual gatherings. Deluxe rooms and suites are available.

Friedman Realty Associates wishes Twin Arrows much success.

-TF

Phoenix Sky Train "People Moving System" Opens

Valley Update

The Phoenix Sky Train "People Moving System" opened  April 8, 2013. For Valley visitors this will be a new attraction and convenience. Connecting the light rail system to Sky Harbor Airport is a big step forward for the City of Phoenix.

The Sky Train initially services Terminal 4, East Economy Parking Lot and Metro Light Rail station at 44th St. and Washington. It runs 24 hours a day with three to four minutes between trains.

Arizona Republic reporter, Amy Wang, says,  "The East Economy Parking Lot will offer free early bag check."

Top 100 Hot Spot Restaurants in the United States

As you read my blog, you find many food references. Lana and I enjoy visiting delicious locations and tasty foods from donuts to fine dining. We wanted to share them with you.

Here in Metro Phoenix, Searsucker in Scottsdale, made the list. You can make reservations at 480.664.3777.
Address: 6900 E Camelback Rd  Scottsdale, AZ 85251
OpenTable publishes The Top 100 Hot Spot Restaurants in the United States. 
OpenTable posts monthly best restaurants in your area.
Findings are based on more than five million review responses. Please check them out and enjoy yourself.

Happy dining!
-TF

Who gets excited about donuts? Jay Leno and I

Best donut tip: LaMar’s Donuts (Jay Leno dubbed best donut in America.)
Donut aficionados, don’t miss the Bavarian Creme Long John.

Drive through and receive your order.
See review on www.Yelp.com

-TF

The refinancing window is now open!

Ever been on the wrong side of an opportunity because you couldn't make a quick decision?

Here’s an immediate opportunity to take advantage of great rates to refinance your home.
Rising home values are boosting equity in homes. This is especially good news for owners who owed more than the home was worth.

Each circumstance is different so check with your lender or mortgage broker.

TF

Phoenix Premium Outlet Stores Now Open!

Heads up for shoppers—Phoenix Premium Outlets, 90 stores, Grand Opening started last week in Chandler, Arizona. You can check more online at www.premiumoutlets.com. Happy bargain hunting.



Locale:
Wild Horse Pass: I-10 to Exit 162. Call 480-639-1766 for more information.

TF

Introducing the Matures!

News flash from the Matures (new name for Senior Citizens).

If you have children or grandchildren, you know they have a world of alpha letters that makes their own language. Boomers and Seniors are roaring back with a few acronyms of their own! Here are a few from the Arizona Republic, Week April 7, 2013, Search “Texting Codes Decoded” for more.

ATD    At the doctors
BFF    Best friend’s funeral
BTW    Bring the wheelchair
CBM    Covered by Medicare
CUATSC    See you at the senior center
DWI    Driving while incontinent
FWIW    Forgot where I was

TF

The Refinancing Window is Open!

Rising home prices in Phoenix are boosting equity in homes. For many people this creates an ideal climate in which to refinance. This is especially true for home owners who previously found themselves owing more than the value of their homes.

The good news is the market is turning the corner. While the rates are historically low, take advantage of this terrific timing and speak to your lender or mortgage broker.

-TF

Spring Training 2013

Spring training Cactus League is in full blast—all over the Valley of the Sun.
Email me to get your schedule today.

Games run through March 30.

Be sure to bring your sunscreen, hat and glasses.

Play ball!

Ted

Good News for Canadian Buyers Looking for Financing

Harris BMO offers Canadians 15-year fixed rates-fixed or ARMs. They do jumbo loans for up to $2M. Check it out.

TF

(623) 476-2491  •  Ted@BirdieGolfHomes.com

 
Ted Friedman, DESIGNATED BROKER, REALTOR, SRES, ABR
Lana Friedman, REALTOR



WISHING YOU A HAPPY & HEALTHY NEW YEAR!!

We are often asked:
 "I Hear the Sales Office Has Been Raising Their Prices.
What Is Going On?"

The sales office has had many small price increases throughout the year. The most significant increase, with only about 120 homes left to sell, was on 12/14/12--an increase of $15,000 on Natura collection homes, $20,000 on Veritas collection homes and $25,000 on Vita collection homes. 


"Is Shea Going to Build More Active Adult Homes Near Trilogy?"
Shea Homes has been looking in the Northwest Valley for more land to build another active adult neighborhood. If they get the parcel they want, it is possible they may build very close to Trilogy at Vistancia, hoping to open in late 2014 or early 2015.


"How Are Trilogy Resale Homes Doing?"
Resale homes are selling. If you have been waiting to put your home on the market, this could be the right time.  For a complementary market analysis, or if you wish to discuss putting your home on the market, please contact us.

Buyers, this is a great time to buy a resale home, especially compared to the new-builds. For example, as of 12/14/12, the base price on a new-build "Libertas" is $311,500 which includes leased solar. By comparison, the nicely upgraded "Libertas" we have on the market on a greenbelt, including furniture and furnishings, is being offered at $319,000. Buyers, please contact us to be your trusted guide to find the perfect home for you.     



If you would like additional information, or have other questions for us, please email Ted@BirdieGolfHomes.com, call 623-476-2491, or text 623-986-0987.

         

13 Resale Homes Sold in Trilogy 
in December 2012

Model       Address          Special Features          Sq.Ft.     List Price     Sold Price
Days On Market   COE

FLORA
28590 N. 123rd LN  
Short Sale
1635 s.f.
$185,000
$185,000
73
12/21/12


FLORA
13055 W. MINE TRL  

1635
 $245,000
 $240,000
 43
 12/28/12

FLORA
12902 W. MAYBERRY TRL
Solar
1635
 $270,000
 $265,000
 37
 12/13/12
MONTIS
12710 W. JASMINE TRL      

1682
 $218,000
 $205,000
 63
 12/10/12
SIDUS
29942 N. 129th GLEN
Exterior Fireplace, Mtn View, Wash Lot, Heated Pool, Solar
1774
 $379,000
 $367,000
 208
 12/28/12

SUSCITO
28848 N. 126th LN
3 Bedrooms + Den, Fireplace
2129
 $315,900
 $303,000
 356
 12/03/12
SERENITAS
27812 N. 130th DR

2111
 $317,000
 $300,000
 266
 12/21/12

SERENITAS
27603 N. Makena Pl
Corner Lot, Golf Course Lot
2111
 $365,000
 $358,000
 121
 12/17/12

CIVITAS
27114 N. 130th GLEN
Built-in BBQ, Mountain View, Wall Behind
2193
 $342,900
 $337,000
 325
 12/11/12

CIVITAS
28945 N. 127th LN
Pool
2193
$383,500
 $366,000
 48
 12/20/12

AURORA
27655 N. 125th DR
Foreclosure, 3-Car Garage, Bonus Room, Fire Pit, Built-in BBQ & Golf Course Lot
2610
 $415,150
 $346,500
 81
 12/27/12

STELLARE
12444 W. BENT TREE DR
Built-in BBQ, Spa
2977
 $399,900
 $399,000
 32
 12/18/12
STELLARE
27853 N. 130th DR
Fire Pit, Spa, Wash Lot, Mountain View, Golf Course View
3096
 $529,000
 $520,000
 840
 2/28/12


12 Re-Sale Homes Under Contract (as of 1/1/13)
    •    1 Under Contract - taking backups (UCB)
    ◦    1 Libertas on the golf course
    •    10 Pending
    ◦    2 Montis
    ▪    1 with heated pool & built-in BBQ
    ◦    3 Libertas
    ◦    1 Nice with solar on the wash
    ◦    1 Serenitas with a casita, built-in BBQ, firepit & mountain view
    ◦    1 Genova with solar
    ◦    2 Civitas
    ▪    1 on the golf course on the water with pool
    ▪    1 with a mountain view & built-in BBQ

81 Active Resale Homes in Trilogy (as of 1/1/13)
    •    2 Luna
    ◦    1 with no neighbor behind, furniture & furnishings included
    •    4 Rivas
    ◦    1 with a heated pool & spa, backs to a wall
    •    8 Flora
    ◦    1 forclosure
    ◦    2 with exterior fireplace & built-in BBQ
    ◦    1 with a fire pit
    •    9 Montis
    ◦    1 forclosure
    ◦    1 with a pool
    •    1 Sidus
    •    1 Solis
    •    12 Libertas
    ◦    1 on a greenbelt, furniture & furnishings included
    ◦    4 on the golf course with fireplace
    ▪    1 with heated pool & spa
    ◦    3 with a casita
    ▪    2 with wall behind
    ▪    1 with solar
    ◦    1 with a heated pool & spa
    •    1 Novus on the golf course
    •    11 Serenitas
    ◦    7 with a casita
    ▪    1 with a spa & heated pool
    ▪    1 on the wash
    ▪    2 with a spa
    ◦    1 with pool
    ◦    1 with a firepit on the wash
    •    1 Cadiz with wall behind
  
 •    12 Civitas
    ◦    2 on the golf course
    ◦    2 on a wash
  
 •    3 Accredo
    ◦    1 with golf course views & a bonus room
    ◦    1 on a wash
  
 •    5 Aurora
    ◦    5 with bonus rooms
    ▪    3 with a pool
    ▪    1 on the golf course
    ▪    1 with a spa
    ▪    1 on a wash
   
•    5 Spiritus
    ◦    2 with a casita
    ▪    1 with pool
    ▪    1 with 4 bedrooms
    ◦    1 on the golf course
    ◦    1 with a bonus/wine room
   
•    1 Vesta with a heated pool
  
•    4 Stellare
    ◦    1 heated pool & spa on the golf course


Trilogy New Home Sales

•  5 Net Sales in December
•  139 Net Sales year to date
• 1 Designer Home currently listed in the MLS  
• Verde Vista with an elevator & guest quarters
• 1 Designer Home pending
• Approximately 123 home sites remaining including six Designer Homes under construction.    
• A new model, Sorrento, is under construction on Lot 1962 in C9. It is 2259 SF, 2BR/2.5BA with 9' ceilings & can be built on a Natura or a Veritas lot.

____________
If you would like any more specific information
regarding these or any other homes please contact us at:
Ted@BirdieGolfHomes.com
call (623) 476-2491 or text (623) 986-0987
_________________________

Enjoy Ted's blog:

Trilogy at Vistancia is a gated 55+ community
with fabulous five-star-resort-style amenities.