Phoenix AZ Gay Urban Living, Lifestyles and Homes

I smoked some bass today! But you can smoke anything you want! He He!
I enjoy any kind of fish smoked. My favorite is a whitefish..It's what I grew up on.

Every Sundays we would drive from Erie, PA to Westfield, NY to grandma's for Sugo, Sugo is the Italian word for any kind of sauce in our family. All the Aunts, Uncles and cousins would be there to enjoy the pasta. My mom would make a few stops on the way. The 1st STOP was Arnone's Bakery & Italian Deli (no website found) Just this video

for the fresh Italian bread and peperoni balls. I don't think you can find a peperoni or fish ball any place but Erie,PA (I've never seen them)

Mom would toss a peperoni balls back to my sisters and I. The fresh warm fried dough ball stuffed w/ peperoni or anchovies. I remember those Sundays as though it was yesterday.
The next STOP was for fresh farm eggs..We would want a dozen of the double yokes.
Ahhh then, the last stop before Grams was, and not every Sunday, maybe once a month or so in Westfield, NY near grams the Barcelona Harbor on Lake Erie for the smoked fish. That is where my appreciation began for smoked fish and foods. I look back at moments like this and see my appreciation for food started at a young age.

That little smoke shack, with all the fish hanging.. I remember mom would let us pick the fish. I wonder if that shack is still there. I will have to see the next time I go home. I remember like I was there last Sunday. THX Mom

Fish Brine Solution - You can use just about anything you like. rules, what rules, there are NO Rules on what should go into the brine other than definitely salt and some sugar. I use what ever I have on hand.. Just brine your fish, this is an important step for smoking fish, it cures and keeps the fish moist, so the fish is not to dry.. Got to love the work MOIST. I brined my fish over night. But a few hrs will be just fine.

1 cup water
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup Non-iodized salt
2 cups soy sauce/optional use broth
1/2 tsp. Onion powder
1/2 tsp. Garlic powder
1/2 tsp. Pepper
1/2 tsp. Tabasco sauce
1 cup dry white wine

*Rinse fish with cold running water after curing to remove the excess salt and other seasonings from the surface , allow fish to air dry before putting on smoker.

OOPS!!! I almost forgot, I stuffed my fish with apple and onion slices..YOU can too.

Smoking Process:

Start the smoking process by soaking wood chips. I used apple wood chips I get from CA. Apple Hill near Placerville, CA Got to love Apple Hill in Sept.

Smoke filets or whole fish in a steam / smoker for 1 1/2 to 4 hours, or until the fish flakes. I smoked this 2.5lb for 4hrs.

I always spray my racks with Pam. Set the rack with the fish filets above the smoking wood chips (follow your smoker directions). My smoker I put a water bowl on top of the charcoals, I put water wine and spices in the water.. The water slows the cooking process down and lowers the temp. so it's a low heat/slow smoke.

Smoke 2 to 3 hours, depends on the thickness of the filets. reheat your smoker w/ a slow, smoldering fire, make sure you have enough charcoal in your smoker if you are using a charcoal smoker, you don't want to run out of charcoal 1/2 way through smoking as I have done before. I add the chips directly on charcoal..don't be skimpy on the wood chips. Use just enough wood to maintain a steady smoke. I love the pleasant mild smoky flavor, I read that to much smoke will cause the fish to taste bitter. (has not happened yet).

Enjoy And check out My FOOD BLOG Thyme for Delicious Dishes

2011-10-18T13:26:00.001-07:00

Who is watching Rosie and what do you think?

Search Historical Homes in Phoenix

2011-09-25T12:07:00.000-07:00

Search Historic Phoenix Homes by zipcode or neighborhood

CentralAvenue, Willo & Roosevelt --85003

AshlandPlace, East Evergreen, Alvarado & Central Ave -- 85004

Coronado, Country Club, Diamond St, & VictoriaPlace -- 85006

Del Norte, Fairview, FQ Story, Encanto/PalmcroftOakland -- 85007

ElsinorHistoric District -- 85008

Villa Verde Historic District -- 85009

LaHacienda & Windsor Square -- 85012

Country Club Manor, Cheery Lynn & IdylwildePark -- 85014

NorthEncanto & Cheery Lynn -- 85015

TheBiltmore & Phoenix Homesteads -- 85016

Arcadia & Maryvale Terraces -- 85018

Villa Valencia Historic District -- 85020

RooseveltPark Historic District -- 85040

Specializing In:

Family Relocation to Phoenix

Phoenix Short Sales

Bank Owned Property

Investment Properties

Repo Homes

Fixer-Uppers

Historical Homes & Historic Neighborhoods

Downtown Urban Living Condo's, Lofts & Town Homes

We want TO be your REALTOR For more information call 602-391-8246 Linda Wieczorek

FOR HOMES IN PHOENIX AND THE METRO PHOENIX AZ AREA USING FLEXMLS®, THE OFFICIAL AND LIVE MLS!

Search Homes NOW

2011-09-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

PRIDE is RIGHT around the Corner check out there Site

Untitled

2011-06-16T18:21:00.001-07:00

Posted via email from Living in Phoenix, Real estate, Neighborhoods & Homes

Dinner, yum

2011-05-22T18:41:00.001-07:00

Posted via email from Living in Phoenix, Real estate, Neighborhoods & Homes

Bunny first swim of the yr

2011-05-22T14:35:00.001-07:00

Posted via email from Living in Phoenix, Real estate, Neighborhoods & Homes

My fern loves it's new home

2011-05-17T18:52:00.001-07:00

Posted via email from Living in Phoenix, Real estate, Neighborhoods & Homes

FB

2011-05-10T22:10:00.001-07:00

Posted via email from Living in Phoenix, Real estate, Neighborhoods & Homes

Another cool tool to figure out

2011-05-10T12:18:00.001-07:00

have had posterous for a year now,never used it, time to start checking it out....

Posted via email from Living in Phoenix, Real estate, Neighborhoods & Homes

Top Home Trends for 2011

2011-01-04T13:55:00.000-08:00

Read this article REALTOR® Magazine and I have to agree, started seeing in 2010 lots of Art Deco - Metallic shades of gray from silvery to charcoal team with bold blue and orange. Old is New, Great artical check it out

Embellished Ceilings, Vintage Among Top Home Trends for 2011
December 20, 2010 by Melissa Tracey ·

REALTOR® Magazine

Embellished ceiling So what does 2011 hold for home decor? Expect lots of 2011 forecasts in the coming weeks. Here are highlights from a recent article in which design experts chime in what they expect to see popular in home design in the New Year.

1. Old is ‘New’

Vintage is to be hot in 2011. Period pieces that are re purposed or home furnishings reproduced from the 1950s, ‘60s, or ’70s will get new life again. For example, one design expert predicts more furniture styles inspired from the ‘50s and ‘60s with round tapered legs, geometric accents and seating with curved backs.

2. Bold colors

Aqua and green colors will continue to reign in the New Year. Subdued hues such as sage green, barn red, and mocha brown are also expected to increase in popularity.

3. Energy efficient lighting

The eco-friendly choice of LED will continue to increase in popularity in lighting choices, such as with LED under-cabinet systems and landscape products. Also, expect bold lighting touches in unexpected places, such as chandeliers hanging in the bathroom or closet.

4. Embellished ceilings

The ceiling will be made to be noticed in 2011, becoming more of a focal point in a space. Expect more ceilings to be painted–even in metallic colors–or architecturally enhanced and with chandeliers hanging from it.

What does it mean to be 'Gay in America'?

2010-12-01T07:59:00.000-08:00

BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS | Posted: Thursday, November 25, 2010 8:33 pm
The Associated Press interviewed 10 gay and lesbian people from around the country, about their personal experiences being Gay in America. In the videos, each person responds to the following questions:

1. What do you think people have the hardest time understanding about your life as a gay person in America?

2. In light of your personal circumstances, how has being gay affected your life?

View these personal videos

Prop 8 -

2010-08-05T09:03:00.000-07:00

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Housing market diagnosis: Bipolar

2010-05-17T12:55:00.000-07:00

The article, Housing market diagnosis: Bipolar, from CNNMoney.com, reports that bipolar is what comes to mind when diagnosing the post-home buyer tax credit market.

There are two separate forces pulling it in opposite directions, and experts aren't yet sure which path the market will take. On one hand, sales and prices are rising, indicating recovery. On the other hand, so are interest rates and repossessions, which most certainly do not. And then there are the millions of foreclosures that need to be sold but haven't yet been listed -- so-called shadow inventory -- that could derail a real recovery if they hit the market in floods.

The prognosis? Negative short term but turning positive by the end of 2010. One of market's biggest hurdles is getting beyond the lapse of the $8,000 home buyer tax credit. Thanks to the incentive, buyers scrambled to beat the April 30 deadline, pushing new home sales up nearly 30% in March. "In the months immediately following the expiration of the tax credit, we expect measurably lower sales," said Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors (NAR). But there is one factor that has experts really scared: homes that are ready to be sold but haven't been put on the market. Right now, there could be more than 4.5 million homes in "shadow inventory," according to a recent report by Barclays Capital. This so-called shadow inventory is a recent phenomenon. In the past, inventory was either tight or it wasn't. But now, with home prices so low and so many foreclosures on the market, both homeowners and banks have been waiting to put properties on the market. But as more sellers put their homes up for sale, supplies increase, which will depress prices again. Rinse and repeat ad infinitum.

Here is a link to the article

http://money.cnn.com/2010/05/17/real_estate/housing_market_direction/index.htm

For Rent: 3BR/2BA Single Family House in Avondale, AZ, $1,300/month

2010-05-17T11:08:00.000-07:00

For Rent: 3BR/2BA Single Family House in Avondale, AZ, $1,300/month

Total Roof Warranty By Roof Rx or Shall I say Warning about RX Roofing

2010-05-16T11:13:00.001-07:00

Roof Coverage

One maintenance visit per service agreement year

All roof types including shingle, tile, shake, flat, slate, and metal (roof rated only)

Broken or open flashing seals

Broken or damaged tiles, shingles, shakes, or flat roof material

Flashings and valley

Deteriorated felt paper or underlayment

Repair of specific leaks up to $1,000 per occurrence, $5,000 aggregate per service contract

Roof leaks caused by normal wear and tear

Single family residences(1-4 units), condominiums, and mobile homes

Up to 5,000 sq. ft. per agreement, increments of additional 5,000 square feet available at $199.00

Maintenance Visit

One roof maintenance visit per contract year includes up to $199.00 of service

Maintenance repairs include:

       A. Cleaning of rain gutters and roof drains

       B. Sealing roof level pipes, vents, and projections

       C. Cleaning roof debris

Maintenance visit required approximately 30-45 days after COE or renewal to activate agreement

No service fee

Order In 3 Easy Steps!

Step 1. Order by submitting an application online, by fax: (310) 693-0826 or contact your account executive. You may also contact us toll-free.

Step 2. We request one of the following to ensure service of coverage:

Home inspection report

Roof certification or a roof inspection report from a licensed roof contractor

Step 3. Make payment with MasterCard, Visa, check, or by submitting escrow information.

Relax! The Total Roof Warranty will protect your entire home from covered roofing failures resulting in leaks due to normal wear and tear. You will receive one roof maintenance visit approximately 30-45 days after COE or renewal.

Overview

Covered: The repair of water leaks that occur in the entire rooftop over living and non-living areas up to 5,000 square feet provided the leaks are the result of normal wear and tear. Coverage for additional increments of 5,000 sq. ft for $199.00. This roof warranty covers the repair or replacement of flashings, missing or broken tiles, shingles, shakes or flat roof material that can create leak causing defects. Roof Rx requests one of the following items in order to ensure equitable service of covered items under this agreement:

Home inspection report, a roof Inspection report, or a roof certification from a licensed roofing contractor.

Roof Maintenance (no service fee): Includes one maintenance visit per contract. Maintenance includes all necessary service and repairs to ensure an ongoing watertight system including: sealing, cleaning, and roof level cleaning of rain gutters and roof drains. Roof Rx will contact you approximately 30 days from the close of escrow or renewal date to schedule the maintenance visit. Roof Rx requires one service visit (maintenance) in order to activate this service agreement. Maintenance items noted as a deficiency on an original home or roof inspection report, which have not been repaired, will not be corrected at time of visit. Due to ongoing wear and tear, maintenance does not guarantee against future leaks not covered.

Not covered: Damage to the roof or leaks caused by a condition other than normal wear and tear such as, but not limited to, persons walking on the roof, improper previous repairs, construction or installation defects, improperly installed valleys, exposed nail heads, leaks occurring from newly installed roof-mounted installations, consequential or secondary damage, repair of wood rot, and damage caused by acts of nature such as tornado, lightning, wind, hail, fire and earthquake. Roof system deficiencies identified on the original home or roof inspection and/or any other pre-existing conditions not repaired shall be excluded from coverage. This warranty also does not cover defects associated with roof mounted installations such as, but not limited to, skylights, roof vents, satellite dishes, solar panels etc.

Limitations: $1,000 per occurrence, $5,000 aggregate per warranty contract for maintenance or the diagnosis and repair of specific leaks. If the roof has deteriorated to the extent that the roof cannot be repaired without a partial or whole replacement, Roof Rx’s liability is limited to $1,000 for the diagnosis and replacement of a roof provided that such replacement is completed by Roof Rx or a Roof Rx designee.

via roofrx.com

The add sounds too GOOD TO BE TRUE!!! It IS!! This company is the worst, they never showed up, Then.... when they did show up.. They were late 2 hrs. late , then they were to email me an estimate and I have never received one as of yet, I have called 3x's and every call someone was to get back with me with in 24hrs... NOT... NOT one time has this company done what they were suppose to do!! So, I guess there it's not a question on weather to hire them for my out of State client ROOF Cert.... BIG NOT!!!! Thought I would share this with the world!!

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

Answers to the Most Common Questions on Green Real Estate Investing

2010-05-15T11:32:00.001-07:00

Ever feel like you’re shouting into the wind?

When I first started talking to people several years ago about green real estate investing, I felt that way a lot. They didn’t bother asking me questions-they just looked at me quizzically as though I had three heads (which I don’t). Luckily times have changed and I get asked questions all the time now. So I thought I’d put together a list of the common questions I hear that you might have as well. In no particular order, here they are:

“Tell me again why green will make me more money”

Simple:
- You’ll sell your properties faster and for more money.
- If you own rental properties, you’ll rent them faster to better tenants for more money, have less churn and lower vacancies.
- You’ll have less than 1% competition in any market in the US.

“Isn’t green more expensive?”

Not if it’s done correctly and according to a well thought out plan. Sure, tons of people get it wrong and spend too much but you don’t have to be one of them. Green, by definition, should cost you less money. If it’s costing you more to achieve it, then it’s really not a green solution. For example, installing solar panels to save 30% on your utility bills will cost you a ton and deliver a marginal payback. You can achieve that 30% reduction simply by improving your building envelop.”

“Why would people spend more money to live in a green home?”

95% of people, in my experience, won’t spend a penny more to live in just a green home. BUT they will spend more to live in a green home if it costs them less to operate and is healthier for their families. Quick example- Seniors on fixed incomes might love a green property because their monthly utility bills can be 40-50% less than if they live in a comparable home. There’s a strong chance they’d pay a premium for a green home if they knew that their monthly bills were going to be reduced and there were less toxins in the home. [As an aside- Indoor toxins from paint, carpets, etc. are more damaging to the young (babies) and old (seniors) due to their developing/weakening immune systems].

“No one is really serious about green, that’s just talk, so why should I bother?”

I have not met a client from Paris to Boston to Detroit to San Diego, etc, etc. that wasn’t interested in at least one of the following:

- Saving money monthly on their utility bills
- Living in a healthier environment that is safer for their families.

They may not have cared about the environment but 100% of them cared about one of those two factors. Those factors are the essential elements of green homes. The fact that they also have less impact on the planet is a bonus for most people. You must keep that in mind when you’re explaining the concept.

“What’s the most important thing to do to make an investment property green?”

Get the building envelop under control. Fix the leaks, gaps and holes so your AC (Summer) and heat (winter) aren’t literally going out the window. Look at your exterior walls first and your attics and roofs next. DO NOT buy anything or do anything else until you get the envelop under control. A good energy audit can show you where the problem areas are so you can fix them immediately.

“Do I need to install solar?”

Typically, solar doesn’t pencil out for investment properties unless you are talking about multi-family or commercial. The high cost of materials, and install negate any potential return over the near-term unless your residential home is over 4000 square feet. Solar-water heating, however, can make a lot of sense in the right circumstance. Recently in parts of California there was a rebate of up to 30% (uncapped) on the cost of the install/materials in addition to a pilot program that offered $1500 cash rebate to install. Installed systems were costing approx. $8000 so after the 30% rebate and $1500, the net cost was $4000. For big houses that spend more than $200/month in water, that pays off in about 18 months.
[Another aside- solar companies are notorious (in my experience) for overselling what you need. They want you to buy a system that could power NYC, when what you need is much less].

“I don’t know anything about green, how can I get up to speed?”

There are some great books on the subject and there are great green building seminars going on in almost every major metropolitan area these days. Working with a green consultant is a good way to start as well IF they have direct experience doing projects. Don’t work with someone who is all ‘theory’ and no ‘practice’. Set up some google alerts on the subject and read those daily.

“Where can I find green products and materials?”

Quick and easy answer is to look online. The better solution is to hire an unpaid intern to source products for you.

Leads to:

“Intern! Why would I hire an intern and why would they work for me for free?”

You hire an intern because they can:
- Research rebates and incentive programs for you
- Source products and materials
- Schedule contractors
- Drop off paperwork, video-tape properties, take pictures (and any other admin work you don’t want to do)

Why they will work for you for free:
- They are passionate about green
- They want the experience
- It looks good on their resume if they’ve worked for a ‘green’ company
-They are doing work that contributes to society as a whole

For what it’s worth, I am the only employee of my company and I have had at least one intern working for me over that past 4 years. Last summer I had four working for me. There is almost no limit to what you can have them do to support your business. The more passionate they are about green, the harder they will work and the more they will help you. [Email me offline if you'd like more info on this, including actual ads I've run, etc. The last ad I posted I had over 65 people apply for an unpaid position. Many had their Masters' degrees and one had her PhD. During the interview process I conveniently left out that I almost flunked out of high school].

Hope these were helpful, feel free to add any additional questions and i will do my best to answer them.

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Article Author: Jim Simcoe
Jim has written 10 articles for us.
Visit Jim's Website: http://www.jimsimcoe.com

I help real estate investors increase profits and property values through a variety of green strategies. I help clients find hidden rebates, tax incentives and credits to maximize returns on any property. www.JimSimcoe.com

You May Also Be Interested In...

Investing in a Green Home
Why Smart Investors are Going Green
What Green and High-Performance Real Estate Have in Common (and why you should care)
The ABC’s to Green up any Investment Property
7 Lessons from a Profitable Green Wholesaler

Tagged as: green real estate, solar

via biggerpockets.com

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

In California, Rates of Delinquency Vary, Mostly Driven by Negative Equity « HousingWire

2010-05-14T08:14:00.001-07:00

Thursday, May 13th, 2010, 4:08 pm

Mortgage performance in California — although not substantially different than that of the US — varies dramatically among regions within the state, according to a study of all securitized non-agency mortgages in the state by credit-rating agency Fitch Ratings.

“Delinquencies are highly correlated with the level of negative equity,” said Fitch managing director Roelof Slump. “Regions with the largest home price increases have also seen the most precipitous declines.”

“Property value declines in California are having a dramatic effect on a borrower’s willingness to pay,” Slump added.

These trends are particularly relevant to gauging the overall performance of new and existing mortgage-related securities, Fitch said, as California represents approximately 50% of the overall non-conforming mortgage origination volume.

The Fitch study concluded that 60+ delinquency rates for prime loans are at 12% in California, compared to 10% nationally. The delinquency rates for other sectors are similar as well, including pay-option adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) (47% vs. 46%), subprime (50% vs. 47%), and Alt-A excluding Option ARMs (both 28%).

Fitch noted dramatic disparity among various regions within the 382 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) tracked. For instance, California includes both the best performing region in the country, San Francisco, and the worst performing regions — such as Riverside at 367th.

Riverside’s 23% prime 60+ day delinquency rate more than five times that of San Francisco (4%). Fitch said this performance difference is consistent across all sectors, with 50% of non-prime mortgages more than 60 days delinquent in Riverside compared to only 23% for San Francisco loans. Even Option ARM and subprime loans from San Francisco outperform Alt-A mortgages from Riverside.

The house price swings have been just as varied. Fitch found that, from 2000-2006, house prices in San Francisco increased by 81% and have since declined 22% from the peak. Over the same period, prices in Riverside jumped 193% and since declined 55% from the peak.

Consequently, 90% of Riverside mortgages are now considered “underwater,” with nearly 60% of borrowers owing more than 150% of the value of their home. Fitch estimates the weighted average current loan-to-value (LTV) ratio in Riverside to be 164%. By comparison, less than 1% of San Francisco mortgages are more than 50% underwater, with a weighted average current LTV of 81%.

Nationally, Fitch found that 39% of underwater borrowers and 58% of borrowers more than 50% underwater are 60 days or more delinquent (compared to 18% for non-underwater mortgages). Conversely, the four California MSAs with the lowest level of home price appreciation from 2000-2006 have the lowest level of delinquency rates.

The report does not include information on how this data may impact the performance of the securitized pools.

Write to Diana Golobay.

via housingwire.com

Owners skulking away from "underwater" U.S. homes That is what happening here in Phoenix, owners throwing in the towel. Like a growing number of the 8.3 million American homeowners who owe more on mortgages than their homes are worth, he's ready to just walk away. It can take a year or longer for a bank to seize a home once the owner ceases payments. While a foreclosure hurts credit, owners do not have to make mortgage payments as the process unfolds and can use that saved money to start over. Thinking about walking away? Phoenix, Arizona Short Sale Help for Sellers! Call Linda 602-6391-8246

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

Fannie Shortens Wait for Some Distressed Borrowers to Get New Loans « HousingWire

2010-05-14T07:50:00.001-07:00

Friday, April 16th, 2010, 3:46 pm

Fannie Mae (FNM: 1.02 -0.97%) announced it is reducing the wait time for some borrowers between when they complete a short sale or deed-in-lieu of foreclosure transaction and when they can obtain a new mortgage.

Previously, a borrower was required to wait four years before getting a new mortgage, or two years if their home sold in a short sale. Under the new guidelines, a borrower that previously completed a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure transaction can get a new mortgage in two years, provided the borrower has a 20% down payment.

If the borrower has a 10% down payment, the wait period is still four years. In some extenuating circumstances, the wait period can be reduced to two years with a 10% down payment for deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, but not for short sales.

Fannie Mae’s Desktop Underwriter (DU) origination software will be updated in June to reflect the new deed-in-lieu of foreclosure policy, but not short sales, as the software cannot at this time determine whether a borrower participated in a short sale.

Originators are required to manually underwrite mortgages after the waiting period if the borrower previously completed a short sale. This new policy is effective for manually underwritten mortgage loans with application dates beginning July 1, 2010.

The policy changes come as Fannie Mae develops its deed for lease (D4L) plan. At Thursday’s Texas Mortgage Bankers Association (TMBA) servicing conference, Miguel Gutierrez, program’s director, outlined the initiative, where in exchange for a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, the homeowner-turned-renter pays fair market rent to stay in their home for up to 12 months.

Fannie expects the program to get a boost from the Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternative (HAFA) program, which offers incentives to servicers and second lien holders to consummate deed-in-lieu transactions. Gutierrez said Fannie hopes its program will benefit from increased workouts incentivized by HAFA.

Write to Austin Kilgore.

via housingwire.com

So when you are thinking of doing that Short Sale and walking away from a Bad debt, a home that will take you several yrs to regain equity, Remember to Call Linda Wieczorek azhomes4u@gmail.com

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

Artlink Phoenix MAY 21ST A 6:00PM Third Friday

2010-05-13T11:52:00.001-07:00

Photo Gallery

October

via artlinkphoenix.com

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

Avondale AZ - Official Website - Homebuyer Assistance

2010-05-01T07:07:00.001-07:00

via avondale.org

Make your Home ownership Dream a reality! Call Linda 602-391-8246

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

Your Way Home AZ is the one-stop location for purchasing foreclosed homes through the state, county and local governments.

2010-05-01T07:01:00.001-07:00

via yourwayhomeaz.com

Your Way Home AZ is the one-stop location for purchasing foreclosed homes through the state, county and local governments. Funding is available to qualified buyers who are interested in purchasing foreclosed homes in select areas throughout the state.
Call Linda 602-391-8246 azhomes4u@gmail.com

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

Phoenix-area home sellers overshoot mark for home-sale prices

2010-04-26T09:16:00.001-07:00

Home sellers in the Phoenix area are having a tougher time adjusting to the housing market's new reality than their counterparts are in other cities, according to new data from online home-listing firm Trulia.com.

Sellers in Las Vegas, San Diego, Miami and other cities hit hard by the real-estate crash have gotten much better at choosing a marketable sales price during the past year, but one-third of Phoenix sellers continue to overshoot the mark.

That's no better than they did a year ago, when the same percentage of Valley homes listed on Trulia.com's site sold for less than the listed price, company spokesman Ken Shuman said.

"Seller expectations in Phoenix are still out of line with the current market," said Shuman, who observed dramatic improvements in list-price accuracy in most of the 15 cities Trulia studied.

Ten metro areas fared better than Phoenix in terms of year-over-year improvement, with Las Vegas leading the way.

The number of Las Vegas listings that sold only after a price cut decreased by 54 percent from April 2009 to the current month.

In San Diego, which was Trulia.com's second-most-improved city, discounted listings decreased by 52 percent during that time.

Philadelphia, Atlanta and Chicago showed no year-over-year improvement in the accuracy of initial home-listing prices, but none of those cities had as high a percentage of overpriced listings as did Phoenix, the data show.

Initially overpriced listings remained at 22 percent in Philadelphia, 25 percent in Chicago and 21 percent in Atlanta, according to Trulia.com.

No other city matched the current 32 percent inaccuracy of Phoenix listings.

Only two cities, Denver and Seattle, had increases in list-price discounting from April 2009 to this month, with increases of 5 percent and 15 percent, respectively.

As painful as it can be, Shuman said homeowners who accept the painful truth and price their homes realistically help themselves and the housing market overall.

"Sellers should be pricing not just properly, but aggressively," he said.

via azcentral.com

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

Eco-Friendly Cities: Where to Buy : HGTV FrontDoor Real Estate

2010-04-23T10:01:00.001-07:00

Living green isn't just about your house, it's also about your community. Being in a community that makes it easy to be green will make your transition to eco-friendly life that much simpler.
Here are some things to consider when searching for a green neighborhood or city:
Are there alternative power sources?
Sure, you can buy your own solar panels, but it's simpler to tap into a city's existing renewable energy sources, like wind, solar and hydroelectric power.
Eugene, Ore., is a great example of a power-forward city. Much of the Pacific Northwest already uses clean hydroelectric power. Eugene takes it one step further: The city draws another 9 percent of its energy from wind farms.
What about public transportation?
The average suburban driver makes 13 car trips a day and all that fuel guzzling can cancel out home energy savings. What's a homeowner to do? Live somewhere that has ample public transportation.
New York City has the largest public transport system in the world, and 54 percent of Big Apple residents use subways, buses and trains rather than their own wheels. In Washington, D.C., 34 percent of residents use public transit. Boston comes in third with about a third of its residents using the city's transportation services.
I Pedestrian-Friendly Cities >>

via frontdoor.com

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

Linda's Blog

2010-04-21T12:54:00.001-07:00

Linda Wieczorek

Phoenix, AZ

More about me…

Arizona Elite Property

Address: 1560 W. Warner Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85233

Office Phone: (602) 391-8246

Cell Phone: (602) 391-8246

Email Me

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via activerain.com

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Have you received your 8k Tax credit Refund YET!

2010-04-18T12:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was out with a few friends and ran into a couple that I sold a home to right before Christmas. They sent in there tax credit paperwork and was told 6-12 weeks , they received another letter stating they needed the HUD, the HUD was attached to the paperwork. Sending in the HUD once more they were told another 8-12weeks. Still waiting...and waiting... ???? Whats this about??? I started to do some checking on line and WOW lots of people waiting on that 8K... Are you waiting??? let me know...

Is it ??? TIME to be in the Real estate Market in Phoenix

2010-04-18T10:39:00.000-07:00

Now is the time to be in the Real estate market in Phoenix, if you wait it will cost you. If you are looking for short term investment (fix and flip) or long term investment (rental w/ positive cash flow) I can help you meet your needs and exceed your expectations. What are you waiting for?

I will share with you how to start on a small budget. What are you waiting for?

Here in the Valley of Sun, Phoenix it is NOW cheaper to own then rent.

Contact Linda Wieczorek 602-391-8246 AZHomes4u@gmail.com to CHAT about or go look at Positive Cash Flow homes, duplex, triplex and 4plex inventory in Greater Phoenix Area. Take a look at all lender owned property and Foreclosures.

Search Homes here

WHY INVEST IN the Valley of the Sun Greater Phoenix

* Residental Real Estate in many areas of AZ is selling for as little is 50% and less of 2006 pricing.
* The savvy investor known and understands to buy when values are low and sell when values are high.

Quiz: What Type of House Hunter Are You? : HGTV FrontDoor Real Estate

2010-04-16T09:32:00.001-07:00

What Type of House Hunter Are You?
Are you a gearhead that scrutinizes the inner-workings of a home and analyzes utility bills? Or are you more interested in the spa bathroom and stylish accent walls? Are you looking for a down-and-dirty deal, or willing to pay top dollar to acquire a hot address?
Find out what type of homebuyer you are with this quiz, and learn how to work your strengths and balance your weaknesses!
Plus, click on the House Hunter IQ Boosters to get valuable tips and advice when searching for a home.
Take The Quiz

via frontdoor.com

This is a pretty good little quiz, as a Realtor I see all types of House Hunters. I took the quiz 3 x's just to see what it says. If you are looking for a Home take the quiz and see what kind of house hunter YOU are, then send me an email AZHomes4u@gmail.com Lets Go House Hunting

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

Obama orders hospital visitation rights for gays, lesbians

2010-04-15T23:51:00.001-07:00

via cnn.com

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Homebuyer Tax Incentive Deadline Near, Mortgage Rates Going Higher

2010-04-13T08:27:00.000-07:00

It's NEAR!!!! A few things to keep in mind if you plan to buy a house soon (or know someone who does). First, the deadline for the First Time Home buyer Tax Incentive of $8,000 and the Repeat Home buyer Tax Incentive of $6,500 is near. You’ve got to have your home purchase under contract by the end of April 2010, and have it closed by the end of June. The clock is ticking and not much time to get a offer accepted. The closing part is not likely to be a problem if you’re buying a resale home, but if you want a new home, it may have to be a completed or close-to-complete home.

Also, as expected, mortgage interest rates are starting to go up. Rates are about 0.500% higher in some cases than they were at the beginning of the year. The Fed has ended a program that helped to keep rates low and they’re starting to react. The jury is still out on the question of private investment stepping in to take the Fed’s place, but I would not count on it anytime soon.

Nothing focuses the mind like running out of time. I’d say it’s time to FOCUS, and let’s get those houses under contract! With all the Short sales out there this is no easy task, lets hope the Banks realize this and start accepting offers. The foreclosures have multiple offers on them Call me if you need a little HELP!! Linda 602-391-8246 or email AZHomes4u@gmail.com

First-Time Homebuyer Credit: Members of the Military and Certain Other Federal Employees

2010-04-12T09:39:00.001-07:00

First-Time Homebuyer Credit: Members of the Military and Certain Other Federal Employees

The Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act of 2009, which was signed into law on Nov. 6, 2009, extends and expands the first-time homebuyer credit allowed by previous Acts. The new law:

Extends deadlines for purchasing and closing on a home.

Authorizes the credit for long-time homeowners buying a replacement principal residence.

Raises the income limitations for homeowners claiming the credit.

Under the new law, an eligible taxpayer must buy, or enter into a binding contract to buy, a principal residence on or before April 30, 2010 and close on the home by June 30, 2010. For qualifying purchases in 2010, taxpayers have the option of claiming the credit on either their 2009 or 2010 return.

For the first time, long-time homeowners who buy a replacement principal residence may also claim a homebuyer credit of up to $6,500 (up to $3,250 for a married individual filing separately). They must have lived in the same principal residence for any five-consecutive year period during the eight-year period that ended on the date the replacement home is purchased.

People with higher incomes can now qualify for the credit. The new law raises the income limits for homes purchased after Nov. 6, 2009. The credit phases out for individual taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) between $125,000 and $145,000 or between $225,000 and $245,000 for joint filers. The existing MAGI phase-outs of $75,000 to $95,000 or $150,000 to $170,000 for joint filers still apply to purchases on or before Nov. 6, 2009.

Several new restrictions apply to homes purchased after Nov. 6, 2009.

Purchasers must attach a properly executed settlement statement to their return.

No credit is available if the purchase price of the home exceeds $800,000.

The purchaser must be at least 18 years old on the date of purchase. For a married couple, only one spouse must meet this age requirement.

A dependent is not eligible for the credit.

The new law gives the IRS broader authority to deny first-time homebuyer credit claims, without having to first audit a taxpayer’s return. Known as math error authority, this authority applies, retroactively, to credits claimed on original and amended 2008 returns, as well as to claims yet to be filed.

Additionally, there are new benefits for members of the military and certain other federal employees:

Members of the military and certain other federal employees serving outside the U.S. have an extra year to buy a principal residence in the U.S. and qualify for the credit. Thus, an eligible taxpayer must buy, or enter into a binding contract to buy, a principal residence on or before April 30, 2011. If a binding contract is entered into by that date, the taxpayer has until June 30, 2011, to close on the purchase. Members of the uniformed services, members of the Foreign Service and employees of the intelligence community are eligible for this special rule. It applies to any individual (and, if married, the individual’s spouse) who serves on qualified official extended duty service outside of the United States for at least 90 days during the period beginning after Dec. 31, 2008, and ending before May 1, 2010.

In many cases, the credit repayment (recapture) requirement is waived for members of the uniformed services, members of the Foreign Service and employees of the intelligence community. This relief applies where a home is sold or stops being the taxpayer’s principal residence after Dec. 31, 2008, in connection with government orders received by the individual (or the individual’s spouse) for qualified official extended duty service. The credit is still allowable even if this happens during the year of purchase. Qualified official extended duty is any period of extended duty while serving at a place of duty at least 50 miles away from the taxpayer’s principal residence (whether inside or outside the U.S.) or while residing under government orders in government quarters. Extended duty is defined as any period of duty pursuant to a call or order to such duty for a period in excess of 90 days or for an indefinite period.

Question and Answer

Q. Are both spouses required to be overseas for the requisite time period in order to qualify for the 2011 extension to claim the credit?

A. Only one spouse must be overseas on official extended duty for the requisite amount of time for either spouse to be eligible for the 2011 extension of time to purchase a principal residence and claim the credit.

Related Items:

First-Time Homebuyer Credit

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009: Information Center

Page Last Reviewed or Updated: December 14, 2009

via irs.gov

This is Great news for Military and Certain Other Federal Employees. The Tax Credit is extended 1 yr.

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10 things first-time homebuyers want, but don't need - Holy Kaw!

2010-04-11T15:38:00.001-07:00

So, you're in the car rolling along and you see it, your dream house. While you may not be able to afford everything on your wish list, you will want a few amenities you've been yearning for. But do you really need them?

While you're making a wish list of features to share with your real estate agent, check it twice, literally, to make sure that the options you have in mind make monetary and practical sense, too.

A Big Yard: The problem with a big yard is that it needs maintenance -- lots of maintenance. The lawns you see in the gardening magazines that look like lush, outdoor carpets are hard work and expensive to keep up.

A Fireplace: A fireplace can be a dangerous indulgence if you don't get it professionally cleaned regularly. Oh, and it's a big air polluter, too.

Stainless Steel Appliances: As popular as these refinements are today, in a very few years, they'll be replaced by other latest, must-have styles. Worse, last year's "in" thing looks dated and drab once it goes out of fashion.

Full list at HowStuffWorks.com.

Total aggregation of HowStuffWorks.com.

Photo credit: Fotolia

via holykaw.alltop.com

While you're making a wish list of features to share with your real estate agent, check it twice, literally, to make sure that the options you have in mind make monetary and practical sense. The biggest one I see is the BIG Yard... Think twice

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Best Deal in Downtown Phoenix High Rise Living ONE LEXINGTON

2010-04-09T18:29:00.001-07:00

via vimeo.com

Formerly called Century Plaza available to purchase and at prices that are very competitive for such attractive units, exterior architecture, amenities and of course location. Amazing Views...

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Time to Invest in Real-Estate Stocks

2010-04-08T21:30:00.001-07:00

By JAMES B. STEWART
It's springtime for real estate.

Last summer I wrote that it was time to buy residential real estate if you were in the market and looking for a bargain. I never expect to call a market bottom, and certainly not for long-cycle assets like houses, but I seem to have come pretty close. The latest S&P/Case-Shiller survey results, released last week, suggest housing prices bottomed out around April 2009, when its 20-city composite index was down 32.6% from its peak reached in June/July 2006. Since then it has gained 3% through January 2010, with some markets much stronger, especially San Francisco and Minneapolis. (Charlotte, N.C., Las Vegas, Seattle and Tampa, Fla., continued to hit new lows, but at a much slower rate of decline.)

Now it may be commercial real estate's turn. Reis Inc., a commercial-real-estate research firm, reported last week that average rents in the office sector dropped just 0.8% in the first quarter of 2010 compared to the last quarter of 2009. Rents were stable or rose in 23 of the 79 markets Reis tracks. This may not be a bottom, but it's a considerable improvement from just three months ago, when rents in 70 of the markets fell. Given the reporting lag, the bottom may well have already been reached.

If so, this moment has important implications for investors, the banking and real estate sectors, and the economy as a whole. Last year I warned that commercial real estate was a "dark cloud" hanging over the banking industry, echoing comments that were coming from the Federal Reserve. Like many aspects of the financial crisis, the clouds seem to be dissipating.

That's not all that surprising, given the recent positive economic news. Unemployment seems to be stabilizing and even improving, and workers need office space. Consumers have been spending, returning to malls in droves. Rock-bottom interest rates have allowed strapped developers and real estate owners to refinance on favorable terms. There's no doubt that many grossly overpaid at the height of the boom, and there have been some highly-publicized defaults, like Tishman Speyer Properties' decision to walk away from the Peter Cooper Village and Stuyvesant Town apartment complexes in Manhattan. But despite big write-downs, most commercial real estate borrowers have had the cash flow to keep loan payments current or refinance to buy more time.

It's true that many commercial real estate assets have already rallied strongly since bottoming in March of last year. Vanguard REIT Index Fund is trading above $51, a high for the year, and double what it was at its low for the year, to cite just one widely held example. Those who were willing to embrace considerable risk when the economy seemed to be collapsing have been amply rewarded, as they should be. Now that those risks have subsided, so have the potential returns. But I still believe long-term investors will be rewarded. The Vanguard ETF generates a 3.8% dividend yield.

It's rarely practical for individuals to invest directly in commercial real estate, but there are plenty of other ways to gain exposure thanks to mutual funds, exchange traded funds, REITs and even individual stocks that are liquid and offer diversification. It's probably never been easier to participate in the real estate sector. I suggest a mix: an exchange traded fund, a managed mutual fund, one or more REITs, and possibly some stocks of banks with significant commercial real estate exposure.

There are a multitude of ETFs and mutual funds. Among publicly traded REITs, some of the biggest, best known, and most highly regarded are Simon Property Group, Vornado Realty Trust, and Boston Properties. Among bank stocks, the biggest banks, like J.P. Morgan Chase and Bank of America, have substantial commercial real estate loans, but they amount to a relatively low percentage of their total. At the other extreme are Western Alliance Bancorp and Zions Bancorp, which, as of September, had some of the highest exposure to commercial real estate in some of the most troubled markets in the country.

These two remain high-risk propositions in my view, and I don't own them. Western Alliance has doubled from its lows, but is down by a third from the $9 it hit last May. Zions has nearly quadrupled from its low of last March, but at $24, is still far from the $88 it hit in 2007. Neither is for the faint of heart, but both may offer higher potential returns. Many regional banks occupy a middle ground between the big money-center banks and the high exposure of these two.

Whatever mix you deem prudent, I believe it's time to reevaluate your exposure to the real-estate sector. In my view, real estate belongs in every diversified investment portfolio. It's not highly correlated to equities or fixed income, and it offers income opportunities as well as a potential hedge against inflation. I've been keeping some cash on hand designated for real estate, and I've concluded it's time to put some of it to work.
—James B. Stewart, a columnist for SmartMoney magazine and SmartMoney.com, writes weekly about his personal investing strategy. Unlike Dow Jones reporters, he may have positions in the stocks he writes about. For his past columns, see: www.smartmoney.com/commonsense.

via online.wsj.com

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Thin Mint Showdown: Lazy Thin Mint Pie - Phoenix Restaurants and Dining - Chow Bella

2010-04-08T21:26:00.001-07:00

via blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com

That's what I am talking about... Wish I would of had this recipe before I devoured the box

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Mortgage rates reach 8-month high - Washington Business Journal:

2010-04-08T10:23:00.001-07:00

Long-term mortgage rates continue to edge up, with a 30-year fixed rate mortgage now at its highest level in eight months.

Freddie Mac reports a 30-year mortgage averaged 5.21 percent in the week ending April 8, up from 5.08 percent last week. A year ago, 30-year mortgages averaged 4.87 percent.

A one-year adjustable-rate mortgage averaged 4.14 percent this week, up from 4.05 percent last week.

"Once again, mortgage rates followed bond yields higher amid a positive March employment report," says Freddie Mac (NYSE: FRE) chief economist Frank Nothaft.

Rising rates, coupled with the expiration of the homebuyer tax credit at the end of April, may weigh on the spring housing market. But a report earlier this week from the National Association of Realtors said pending sales of existing homes jumped 8.2 percent in February, as buyers act to take advantage of the credit before it ends.

The tax credit, up to $8,000, will expire April 30, though a buyer need only to have signed a contract by then, with closing scheduled before the end of June.

via bizjournals.com

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Overtaxed homeowners start to fight back - Real estate

2010-04-08T10:21:00.001-07:00

By Kristina Dell
msnbc.com
updated 7:32 a.m. ET April 7, 2010
Now that the housing bubble has burst, up to 60 percent of the nation's taxable property may be overassessed, meaning owners are paying thousands of dollars more in taxes than they need to, experts say.
That is leading to a flood of appeals in many markets from homeowners eager to cut their taxes and speed the process of aligning tax valuations with reality.
While home prices have fallen by 30 percent on average since their 2007 peak, according to the Case-Shiller Home Price Index, many counties only reassess every three to five years and have little incentive to move faster considering how important property taxes are to funding local government operations.
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So homeowners are increasingly appealing the valuations, although the number is still a tiny fraction of the total — 2 to 4 percent, according to the National Taxpayers Union.
“People forget they need to appeal,” said Barbara Payne, executive director of the Fulton County Taxpayers Foundation in Georgia. “Everyone should have appealed more than once in the last five years or you’re paying too much.”
Those who appeal are getting mixed results. Only 20 to 40 percent of those who challenge their assessment walk away with a victory, the NTU said.
“Appeals have become more difficult in the last two years now that municipalities are fighting tooth and nail for everything,” said Anthony Sarro, president of eTaxReductions.com, a company that represents people on property tax appeals.
A success story
Stuart Sendell, a retired mortgage banker living in Morristown, N.J., was ultimately successful but said the process took 14 months to complete.
After reading a report that found the average assessed value of real estate in his town had increased by 5 percent, Sendell paid a visit to his local assessor’s office to examine the calculations.
“Everyone knew housing values were dropping like a brick,” he said, remembering that he thought the report "couldn't be right."
John Makely / msnbc.com
Stuart Sendell's home was estimated by the township to be worth $1.6 million, but his appraiser concluded his home was worth only $970,000. After appealing his property assessment, he accepted a 25 percent reduction after a lawyer for the township asked to strike a deal.
Sendell was onto something. He found that the local government included in its calculation a sample of lower-priced homes that dropped in price less severely than his house, which the office estimated was worth $1.6 million. He decided to appeal after hiring an appraiser who concluded his home was only worth $970,000.
Two months before his court date the lawyer for the township asked to strike a deal. Since New Jersey law gives assessors a 15 percent margin of error for assessments, Sendell accepted a 25 percent reduction, which showed up in his taxes. He was awarded a $5,400 tax refund — a savings he now banks each year.
Sendell's experience isn't unique. “There has been a ramp-up in requests that began well over a year ago,” said Peter Sepp, vice president for policy and communications at the NTU. “People are getting sticker shock over assessments that have yet to be adjusted to the realities of the depressed real estate market.”
Click for related content
High property taxes? 4 steps to lowering them
Time running out to use homebuyer tax credit
Houses of God increasingly face foreclosure
Filing an appeal
Attorney Arthur Semetis, a resident of Westchester County, N.Y., used a law firm to file his tax grievance two years ago. “They know what the courts are looking for,” he said, referring to the law firm, “and work with the judges all the time.”
His lawyer was initially unsuccessful in negotiating with the tax authority but knew to stick with the process. The firm ended up winning him a tax reduction of 12 percent on the second go around in the judicial hearing.
An industry has cropped up around the process, with companies filing appeals on behalf of residents in exchange for a cut of the winnings. Most firms work on a contingency basis, taking about 50 percent of the savings for the first year.
CONTINUED : Hiring a lawyer the most effective tactic?
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  MORE FROM REAL ESTATE

Real estate Section Front
  Mortgage rates surge to highest in 8 months
Homebuyers scramble as mortgage rates rise
Overtaxed homeowners start to fight back
High property taxes? 4 steps to lowering them
Americans say time is right to buy home: poll
Empty office buildings make for suite deals
Time running out to use homebuyer tax credit
Financial crisis panel turns to risky mortgages
Pending home sales rise 8.2 percent in Feb.
Houses of God increasingly face foreclosure
Real estate Section Front

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SLAM ONLINE | » Cappie Puts NY Basketball Back on the Map

2010-04-07T09:10:00.001-07:00

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Mysterious fruits reverse aging, improve health

2010-04-07T09:07:00.001-07:00

via aralifestyle.com

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Rising Mortgage Rates Not Fed's Fault - CNBC

2010-04-07T09:03:00.001-07:00

US News
Page 1 of 2 | Next Page
Show Entire Article
Rising Mortgage Rates Not Fed's Fault
cnbc.com | April 07, 2010 | 11:17 AM EDT

The 30-year fixed hit 5.31 percent last week, the highest level since the first week of last August, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.
In response, mortgage applications fell 11 percent, driven entirely by a nearly 17 percent drop in refis.
Purchase applications were basically flat, up just 0.2 percent (all seasonally adjusted).
We called it right?? Rates rise when the Fed stops buying Fannie and Freddie MBS March 31st.
Wrong.
"Believe it or not, it had little or nothing to do with the end of the Fed MBS program," says Bankrate.com's Greg McBride. "Upbeat economic news — a return of job growth, continued improvement in both the manufacturing and service sectors — pushed bond yields higher, taking mortgage rates along for the ride."
Remember, mortgage rates respond to bond returns, and as the economy improves and the stock market improves, bonds have to pay higher returns to hold onto investors.
This is not to say that the end of the Fed's MBS program won't impact mortgage rates eventually. We have to watch the spread between mortgage rates and yields on Treasuries.
So all this good economic news is perhaps bad news for housing?
Not so fast.
Remember what I said at the top about purchase apps versus refis.
Of course a rise in rates immediately impacts refis because fewer borrowers would see an advantage.
Page 1 of 2 | Next Page
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Posted via web from Living in Phoenix-Real estate-Neighborhoods & Homes

Bank of America Retard Division for Short Sales

2010-04-01T16:04:00.001-07:00

via agentgenius.com

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

Phoenix Fringe Festival Schedule

2010-04-01T12:26:00.001-07:00

The 2010 Schedule can be downloaded here:

Tickets are available for PHX:fringe 2010! Purchase them early in order to insure your seat. Buy a whole night worth and make it a great weekend!

We are pleased to annoucnce this night of wonderful program for children at the Children's Museum of Phx!

We are proud to present the urbanStew Interactive Art Exhibition schedule!

For a retrospective look at the 2009 Festival, please click here to peruse last year's Official PHX:fringe Program.

Official PHX:fringe 2010 Venues

Soul Invictus
1022 NW Grand Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85007

Space 55
636 E Pierce Street
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Modified Arts
407 E Roosevelt Avenue
Phoenix AZ 85004
The Chocolate Factory
1105 NW Grand Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85007

Phoenix Theatre "Little Theatre"
100 E. McDowell
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Warehouse 1005

1005 N 1st St

Phoenix, AZ 85004

For Artists: The following spreadsheet features information about the venues. The videos of spaces provided by Urban Stew (Sorry no Space 55, space was under construction). The information included is only an estimate of space and is subject to change. Further details will be provided as we get close to festival dates.

via phxfringe.org

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Staging Tips : Styled, Staged & Sold

2010-04-01T11:23:00.001-07:00

via styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org

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

The Niche Report - Free To Choose by Lamarr Banks

2010-03-30T07:39:00.001-07:00

March 09, 2010
Free To Choose by Lamarr Banks

Since May 1^st 2009, a law was put in place in regards to appraiser, lender, Broker and Realtor relationships. The idea was to sever the appraisers ties primarily with Brokers and lenders in order to help stop the possibility of coercion. It is the Home Valuation Code of Conduct (HVCC).

Since then, appraisal management companies have become the source of work for appraisers. The amc’s control how an appraiser is paid, when an appraiser is paid, how much an appraiser is paid, where an appraiser will work (yes, they can turn down an assignment, but when you do not receive a lot of work?) and in some cases the appraiser is charged to use the amc’s “portal”. Since then, many Brokers have complained about the accuracy and the efficiency of appraisal reports.

One has to ask, “Has the task that HVCC set out to accomplish been achieved?”

If a homeowner cannot select their own appraiser, in a way to protect themselves,

If a broker cannot select their own appraiser who they have used for years,

If the appraiser is forced to work for a reduced fee and a shorter time to complete the appraisal,

One would tend to believe it is not working.

Let’s look at another scenario:

You own an automobile. You have taken your car to your trusted independent mechanic of many years to repair it. Your mechanic has always been truthful to you, even charging you less than the quote when a repair was deemed doable for a lower cost. Your mechanic has even assisted in you acquiring a loaner car when needed. The loaner car company has a relationship with your mechanic and they work together to give you a fair price for your loaner car. You have never felt that either one would “rip you off”.

A large nationwide automotive management company is found to have been ripping off customers with false repairs, and often charging customers for repairs not done. So an Attorney General decides to step in “on behalf of the entire nation” to offer a remedy. The Attorney General makes all independent mechanics across the nation join an AMC (automotive management company) in order to continue working in their trade.

What you say? Was it not a large nationwide automotive management company that caused the fiasco? Not an independent mechanic? What gives?

Now we move forward. Your air conditioning breaks down. You go to your trusted independent mechanic. Your mechanic tells you he can no longer work directly with you, and that you have to call up an AMC (automotive management company) and submit your repair request. You call, fill out the paperwork. And you wait. And you wait. And you wait. You finally have to call an automotive broker (AB) to get a loaner car so you can drive to work, etc. Five wonderful days later you finally hear from the automotive management company! They tell you your selected mechanic will be getting in touch with you!! So you wait. And wait. And wait. Finally one week later, a mechanic calls you up and you set up an appointment for the repair.

You ask what your estimated repair cost will be, they tell you that it will be a flat fee! You panic when you hear the new flat fee, as it is extremely higher than your trusted independent mechanic was. But you have no choice!!

One week later, you finally get to turn back in your loaner car to your AB (automotive broker). When you see the bill from your AB, you ask them can they not include it in the repair fee? They say no, because they do not have a relationship with the mechanic.

Once you pay the bill, you get in your car, and test the air conditioning, only to find that it does not work right. It is then that you find out that they only use “reconditioned” parts (to help cut costs), and that your mechanic (fresh out of trade school) was the most available mechanic for this type of repair. And if you wanted “new parts” you should have stated so. They also tell you they sent you the most seasoned available mechanic at the time you submitted your request, but if you are not satisfied, you are free to reapply and start the whole wonderful process all over again!

I use this scenario to hopefully hit home to what has happened to the appraisal industry, under the guise of “protecting the consumer”.

The independent appraiser will always need to exist. We are independent so we can be the other option for the consumer. This also allows Brokers and Realtors a chance to work in a free market, protecting their client base, and to service them promptly and efficiently. I am not in favor of eliminating AMC’s, but they should not be the only option regarding the appraisal of real property for banks, lenders, Brokers and Realtors……….a true free market is truly that…..free to chose!

Sincerely,

Lamarr C. Banks

Lamarr is an alumni of the Delta Chi Fraternity of Cal State Fullerton, President of the Black Business Network of Orange County, a member of the City of Orange Chamber of Commerce, a former Ambassador for the Chamber of Orange, former President of the Orange Chamber Ambassadors, Ambassador of the year for the Chamber of Orange 2007 and a member of the Orange Chamber of Commerce Executive Board. Lamarr has been in the Real Estate Appraisal business since June of 2001. During the Real Estate boom years, Lamarr covered most of the greater southern California area. Lamarr is currently licensed at the Certification level and is approved to do FHA appraisals. Lamarr may be reached at lamarr@getimpact.net.

via thenichereport.com

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

OneWest bank profit: $1.6 billion - Los Angeles Times

2010-03-30T07:33:00.001-07:00

"This is one hell of a deal for those owners, but hardly a good deal for the banking industry, which pays the FDIC's bills," said Bert Ely, a longtime consultant to banks.
In taking over IndyMac's assets, the investor group, led by Steven Mnuchin of Dune Capital Management, put up $1.55 billion to revitalize the bank. Other investors included hedge-fund operators George Soros and John Paulson, bank buyout expert J. Christopher Flowers and computer mogul Michael S. Dell.
OneWest's financial results were filed with regulators Friday. Regulators and the investors declined to comment on the profit.
IndyMac failed in July 2008 after depositors, worried about its souring portfolio of complex mortgages, rushed to pull out cash. IndyMac specialized in loans that didn't require much borrower documentation, such as verification of income. And it became one of the earliest high-profile meltdowns in the mortgage market, which helped lead to a crisis that threatened to undermine the nation's financial system.
The run on deposits occurred too quickly for the FDIC to find another bank to take over the failing institution, forcing the agency to operate IndyMac for eight months. During that time, FDIC Chairwoman Sheila Bair oversaw the creation of an anti-foreclosure effort that became the model for the Obama administration's loan-modification program.
In selling the lender, the regulator agreed to absorb a large majority of the potential losses not yet recorded in IndyMac's loan portfolio.
The investors pledged to continue to restructure borrowers' loans.
They also said they would expand OneWest into a larger, solid retail bank. In December, they bought First Federal Bank of Los Angeles when it failed. OneWest's financial results for the fourth quarter do not include FirstFed figures.
The OneWest profit was reminiscent of those earned by aggressive investors who paid low prices for assets of numerous savings and loans that failed in the 1980s. But this time, such profit may make the FDIC a lightning rod for criticism of the government's efforts to clean up the latest debacle.

via articles.latimes.com

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

OneWest bank profit: $1.6 billion - Los Angeles Times

2010-03-30T07:30:00.001-07:00

via articles.latimes.com

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

Raw for Thirty Presents

2010-03-29T10:11:00.001-07:00

via rawfor30days.com

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

Phoenix LGBT Gay Pride

2010-03-29T09:41:00.001-07:00

via phoenixpride.org

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

Roosevelt Row | About Us

2010-03-29T09:33:00.001-07:00

via rooseveltrow.org

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

The Official Tourism Web Site for the City of Glendale, Arizona

2010-03-27T15:09:00.001-07:00

Friday Nite Lights - Discover Downtown After Dark

Historic Downtown Glendale - Catlin Court, Old Towne & Promenade at Palmaire, 3rd Friday’s of every month from 5-9 p.m.

Enjoy late night shopping and dining in Arizona's Best Kept Secret - Historic Downtown Glendale. Enjoy a nostalgic hometown atmosphere as you stroll along tree lined brick sidewalks that lead to quaint storefronts and charming bungalows turned shops. You'll find many treasures you won't be able to leave behind. Friday Nite Lights is held the 3rd Friday of each month year-round excluding major US holidays.
Start at the Glendale Visitor Center to pick up a downtown map and information. The Visitor Center will be open extended hours on the 3rd Friday of each month until 9 p.m. Mark your calendar - 3rd Fridays from 5 to 9 p.m.

Upcoming Dates:

January 15, 2010

February 19, 2010

March 19, 2010

April 16, 2010

May 21, 2010

June 18, 2010

July 16, 2010

August 20, 2010

September 17, 2010

October 15, 2010

November 19, 2010

December 17, 2010

Enjoy These Special Activities during Friday Nite Lights:

Bears & More
Enjoy a needle felting class! This is a craft that everyone can do. All you need is some wool roving, a felting needle and a piece of foam and you can make just about anything! Currently classes are held on the 3rd Friday of each month from 5 - 9 p.m. Additional days and times are planned and will be added as needed. The classes cost between $35 - $45 and that includes all your materials. You'll end up with a finished (or almost!) animal to take home along with a needle and the basic skills of needle felting. There are no limits to this craft with all sorts of animals, ornaments, fairies, and pin cushions made with just a bit of roving and needle poking. If you aren't sure if this is for you, stop in during class time and take a peek to see what it's all about. Bears & More: 7146 N. 58th Dr. 623-931-0339.

Bitzee Mama’s
Enjoy live entertainment and 99 cent margaritas along with $ 2 domestic beers during Friday Nite Lights. Bitzee Mamas has also kicked off their ‘Mama's Reward Club Card.’ Pick up your Mama's Club Card and get back 5% for future dining every time you eat at Bitzee Mama's.
7023 N. 58th Ave. 623-931-0562.

AZ Dolls & Gifts
During Friday Nite Lights, AZ Dolls & Gifts will be doing doll appraisals for $5 with all the monies going to St. Mary's Food Bank. AZ Dolls & Gifts: 7150 N. 58th Drive, 623-939-0284.

Enjoy Friday Nite Lights shopping and dining at many of the Historic Downtown businesses including:*

A Mad Hatter's Antiques

A Shot of Java

A Touch of European Café

ABD Antiques

Antique Haven

Antique Nail Parlor

Antique Treasures

The Apple Tree

Auntie Em’s Miniatures

AZ Dolls & Gifts

AZ Laser & Skin

Bears & More

Beautiful Spirit

BesO Art Gallery

Bitz-ee Mama’s

Cee Cee’s on the Corner

Christina’s Got Nails

Christmas Cottage

The Clock Makers

Coffee & Tea Express

Cottage Garden I & II

Country Maiden

The Creative Quest

Delfina Salon

Drawn to Comics

Evergreen Oriental Medicine

Glass Creations

Haus Murphy’s

Healthy Baby Happy Earth

Kathy’s Corner Shoppe & Cowpoke Western Store

La Piazza Al Forno

Lenny’s Burger Shop

Little Saigon

Lois' Loveables

Matilda's Closet

Mighty Cup

Old Time Photo's and Reyna's Flowers

Pals Forever

Papa Ed's Ice Cream

Peaces of Life

Pink House Treasures

Pizza Old Roma

Smilin' Jacks Pedal Cars

Subway

The Tole Shop

ZANG Asian Bistro

*Shop hours subject to change on a monthly basis.

*** Friday Nite Lights will be held the 3rd Friday of every month, year-round, with the exception of all Major US Holidays.

via visitglendale.com

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

Arizona Asian American Association

2010-03-27T15:06:00.001-07:00

16th ARIZONA ASIAN FESTIVAL 2010

(click poster or here to see large printable poster)

LOCATION: Heritage Park (115 N. 6th St., Phoenix, AZ 85004)

DATES: Saturday, April 10th - Sunday, April 11th

TIME: 10:00a.m. - 7:00p.m

ADMISSION IS FREE

General Information:

The primary goal with Arizona Asian Festival is to encourage the development and interest of childrens creative skills while bringing the community together in Unity, an effort to promote Diversity and support the work of Arizona Asian American Association.

East meets West at the Annual Arizona Asian Festival. This free festival features ethnic cuisine, arts and crafts, and such diverse entertainment as martial arts demonstrations, cultural dances and music from nearly a dozen Asian countries. Highlights also include Japanese Taiko drums and a fashion show with traditional Asian costumes. The Arizona Asian Festival also presents a Children's Wonderland, filled with arts and craft activities from Asian , such as origami paper doll from Japan, Kirigami paper cutting from Taiwan, wood doll from Indonesian, Philpino craft for kids.
The Avenue of Cultures provides opportunity to visit booths of different cultures for discussion and seeing different art and culture items. Youth will be presented awards for the Essay Writing and Poster Design Contest. There will be artist demonstrations in Mehendi, a form of ancient Indian body art painting, Chinese calligraphy . Participants also have the opportunity to learn the ancient arts of taekwando and tai chi from local masters. Attendees can taste a variety of Asian ethnic foods from countries like Taiwan, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Korea, China, India, Pakistan etc. as well as purchase cultural items from various Asian booths.

Sponsors:

Partial funding provided by the Phoenix Arts Commission through appropriations from the Phoenix City Council; the Arizona Commission on the Arts through appropriations from the Arizona State Legislature and grants from the National Endowment for the Arts.

via aaaa-az.org

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

Forks&Corks

2010-03-27T14:56:00.001-07:00

FAIL (the browser should render some flash content, not this).

via forksandcorks.org

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

Artlink Phoenix

2010-03-27T14:54:00.001-07:00

First Friday

Join us on the First Friday of every month from 6-10 p.m. for the nation's largest, self-guided art walk!

Get the Spring 2010 map

Spring 2010 printable map

Learn More

via artlinkphoenix.com

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

flexmls Web

2010-03-26T17:58:00.001-07:00

Check out this website I found at armls.flexmls.com

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

For Rent: 2BR/1BA Single Family House in Phoenix, AZ, $1,200/month

2010-03-13T12:58:00.000-08:00

For Rent: 2BR/1BA Single Family House in Phoenix, AZ, $1,200/month

What is a FINAL WALK Through?

2010-01-22T13:31:00.000-08:00

The final walk through is what you do right before you close on your home. It is the last chance you have to see the home you bough before you close.
it is also the time to check and make sure that everything in you Buyers Inspection has been completed.
After your offer has been accepted on a home, you do your 10day inspection. If you are lucky enough in today's market and you home is not a Foreclosure or a Short Sale, and you bought a Resale Home you can ask for repairs in you home inspection. In Arizona we use a Buyers Inspection Notice Sellers Respond Addendum. This is where you would request your repairs. Those repairs should be completed before you close on the HOME! This is where your final walk through comes into play.
A lot can happen in a month while you are waiting for the home to close.

I myself sold a home about 4 yrs ago. I painted, carpeted and got the home ready to sell, the day before closing the property, the buyer went back to the home to do the final walk through with there Realtor and the home was broken into...I could of died...Someone took a hammer to the walls and slopped paint all over the interior of the home. I did have insurance on the home to cover the repairs.. This is why it is good to do a Final Walk Through with your agent the day before close or even the morning before you go sign your docs.

The walk Through is very important, it protects the Buyer and you get to look once more at what you are buying before CLOSE. Ask your Realtor about your Final Walk Through

HILARIOUS! How to Buy a Bank Owned Home in Real Estate

2009-11-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

Pending home sales reach 3-year high Tax credit for first-time homebuyers fuels increase in September

2009-11-02T11:45:00.000-08:00

The National Association of Realtors said Monday its seasonally adjusted index of sales agreements rose 6.1 percent from August to 110.1. It was the highest reading since December 2006 and more than 21 percent above a year ago.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Inside The Law: Do You Qualify For HAMP?

2009-10-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

Great Video

The housing market is terrible, but this video might just make you laugh…

2009-09-26T10:22:00.000-07:00

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

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

2009-09-14T14:57:00.000-07:00

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.

September & October Gay Arizona

2009-09-14T12:17:00.000-07:00

SEPTEMBER 19th SEDONA PRIDE The FIRST annual pride event in the COOL Red Rocks. For more info please go to www.SedonaPride.org

SEPTEMBER 26th CASA GRANDE GAY DAY Through the day and into the Night !! FREE ADMISSION 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Dave White Park at 2121 N. Thornton Road, Casa Grande. Featuring entertainment such as Geoffrey Paris, Marc Pedraza, Brandi Amorose, Barbra Seville, and Chane Jordan. for more info CentralArizonaRainbowEquality.com

OCTOBER 3-4th RAINBOWS FESTIVAL RainbowsFestival.com

OCTOBER 4th PHOENIX AIDS WALK www.AidsWalkPhoenix.org

OCTOBER 10th TUCSON PRIDE www.Tucsonpride.org

OCTOBER 11th TUCSON AIDSWALK www.aidswalktucson.com

Ben & Jerry's Partners with Freedom to Marry

2009-09-10T12:59:00.000-07:00

Hubby Hubby' Ice Cream Flavor

In celebration of the freedom to marry in Vermont officially beginning on September 1, 2009, Vermont-based Ben & Jerry’s is symbolically renaming their iconic flavor ‘Chubby Hubby’ to: Hubby Hubby

In Vermont during the month of September go to your local scoop shop offering delicious Ben & Jerry’s ice cream and ask for the new special Hubby Hubby Sundae and spread the love.

With the launch of ‘Hubby Hubby’, Ben & Jerry’s is partnering with Freedom to Marry to raise awareness about why marriage equality matters and encourage nationwide support for the freedom to marry.

Join Ben & Jerry’s and Freedom to Marry in advancing awareness about marriage equality by taking any or all of these actions:

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT Join us in our work to win marriage equality nationwide by signing the marriage resolution:

Presidant Obama Opens up about his Father

2009-09-10T10:31:00.000-07:00

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Phoenix homeowners that need to stop foreclosure... SHORT SALE

2009-09-10T10:20:00.000-07:00

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. Homeowners CALL for information...
Linda Wieczorek 602-391-8246.

The clock is ticking toward the expiration date on the special $8,000

2009-09-09T10:28:00.000-07:00

The clock is ticking toward the expiration date on the special $8,000 new home buyer credit currently offered as part of the government’s emergency economic stimulus legislation. Lets hope the provision is amended or renewed, you only have until the end of November to completely finalize their purchases of your New Home.

Keep in mind that the government and the IRS define first time home buyers in a broader sense. You may still be entitled to the tax perk even if you have already owned a home in your life or have bought and sold dozens of them.

That’s because the official definition of a first time buyer is one who has not owned or co-owned their principle residence during the past three consecutive years.

The time it takes typically to get from point a to point b is about 30 to 45 days. And that is only if they are buying a home that is not a short sale.

So contact Linda Wieczorek, lesbian real estate agents your real estate marketplace for the LGBT community.

Your Phoenix Gay Real Estate Agent Linda Wieczorek

2009-09-09T09:48:00.000-07:00

Your Phoenix Gay Real Estate Agent

Whether you are buying, selling or
building a property, Linda Wieczorek, your Phoenix gay agent at AZPrideProperty.com
can provide expert guidance throughout your Phoenix Metro Area real estate transaction.

As a gay agent, feel rest assured that I can handle your transaction and completely understand alternative lifestyle relationships! Find out what properties are
available or what are some great Phoenix gay businesses and organizations. Take a look at the information and please contact me with any questions!
Linda Wieczorek 602-391-8246 AZhomes4u@gmail.com

I will answer your questions and get you ready for your move!

It’s a Jungle – Being a Buyer in this Market - "feeding frenzy"

2009-09-08T12:38:00.000-07:00

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 Home Path Financing

2009-08-27T08:21:00.000-07:00

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”.

6 Historic Willo Homes - Downtown Phoenix

2009-08-01T14:04:00.000-07:00

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

Phoenix Condo and Loft Homebuyer's Guide

2009-07-11T09:22:00.000-07:00

Find out if these urban abodes are right for you to buy, live in.

If you're looking for amenities, attractive prices and a low-maintenance lifestyle in the city, a condo or loft may be right for you, Phoenix Condo's & Lofts

A condo is generally an individual unit in a larger building or structure that was built as housing. A typical condo complex may look like an apartment building, but each unit is (owned), not rented. A homeowners association (HOA) governs the condo community, collects dues and maintains the common areas.

A loft is a living space carved out of a building that wasn't built as a living unit. Many lofts are built out of converted warehouses or old factory buildings in a city's urban center, making them an appealing alternative for professionals who work downtown. Lofts typically do not have interior walls, have more open space and higher ceilings than other homes, and require minimal maintenance. Loft developers will sell them as move-in-ready units or as empty "shells" for buyers interested in designing the space themselves. An HOA also governs the loft building.

"There's an interesting phenomenon happening today in Phoenix urban centers. People are moving back into the cities. "They're realizing it's much more cost-effective to live and work in the city center."

If you're considering buying a condo or loft, follow these six steps to guide you through the process.

•Step 1: Weigh the Pros and Cons
The condo lifestyle can be an attractive choice for a variety of buyers, such as families who like to be near parks and schools or the empty-Nester looking to downsize. Advantages of living in a condo or loft building include:

•Sense of safety;
•Minimal exterior maintenance;
•Convenience;
•Sense of community;
•Resort like amenities, such as concierge service, pools, fitness facilities, tennis courts, roof deck with views and valet service.
But expect to sacrifice some freedom.

"It can be a bigger process to get approval for renovations, and sometimes personal hobbies and entertaining may be curtailed, depending on building rules.

•Step 2: Find a Real Estate Agent Who Knows the Market (Linda Wieczorek 602-391-8246)
A knowledgeable real estate agent can help in your property search and is especially key if you're a first-time buyer. Most people who are buying condos are entry-level buyers. It's important for these buyers to find someone who has a lot of experience with condos and lofts and who can explain the process well. Transactions usually go sour when the buyer isn't aware of how the process works.

•Step 3: Know What to Look For
•How many units are owner-occupied?
"If a large percentage are owned by investors as second homes or rented out, it can have a negative effect on the value of your property.

•How is the building maintained?
"When you buy a condo, you own the common areas," she says. "Badly maintained common areas can be a red flag that perhaps the homeowners association is not running the building as well as it should."

•Is there an application process?
Sawyer says in Manhattan this step is becoming more common because it protects the owners by making sure others are financially qualified to live in the building.

•Who is the developer/builder?
Check reputations and other developments. "Remember, you are in essence buying a building.

•Step 4: Get to Know the HOA
Before you buy a condo or loft and join the HOA:

•Find out what the monthly dues are and if an automatic debit system is available;
•Ask for a copy of the HOA's covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) as these rules can limit improvements or alterations you can make to how many pets you can have;
•Ask for a copy of the HOA by laws, which dictate in fine detail how the association should operate;
•Ask about any special assessments that were made in the past three years;
•Meet the HOA president and ask any questions you may have about the community;
•Find out when and where meetings are held;
•Ask for a copy of the latest budget and meeting minutes. Review them to see how dues are being spent.

•Step 5: Consider Insurance
With a single-family property, a homeowner must insure the building, its contents and even the land and landscaping. With condos and lofts, the HOA collects monthly dues from members that cover the cost of insuring the building.

Even though the building is insured, condo and loft owners should buy policies to cover their belongings inside the building."It's highly recommended that buyers also purchase a separate homeowner policy to insure the contents of the home, similar to renter's insurance," says Leslie Williamson, executive vice president of The Condo Store, a nationwide real estate service specializing in sales of condos and lofts.

•Step 6: Do the Research
Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you find out the nitty-gritty on the community you're considering. Dig into the HOA's books, ask neighbors about their experiences and talk to the real estate agent on-site to see if it's a good fit for you.

Don't forget to research the community's management system. Is it managed by a small, local firm? Or is it a large company that manages several properties in the city or region? What is the grievance procedure? Who is the on-site manager and how well does he or she respond to day-to-day issues?

Anderson Cooper Addresses Obama’s Broken LGBT Promises

2009-06-06T10:12:00.000-07:00

I think it is way too early to say Obama has abandoed the LGBT community. Look at what has been on his plate and honestly gay marriage or Don’t Ask Don’t Tell is not on his top plate with the economic crisis he inherited.

What is an FHA Mortgage ?

2009-05-24T10:00:00.000-07:00

Found this great info on FHA Mortgage. Almost every one I work with wants to know about FHA Mortgage. SO, What is an FHA Mortgage ?

FHA Mortgage Calculator
How Much Can I Afford?

Single Family
FHA Insured Mortgage Programs

Why Hiring a Real Estate Professional Works in Your Favor

2009-05-18T09:44:00.000-07:00

Whether you're buying, or selling real estate, it is beneficial on a personal level and in a financial capacity that you consider hiring a realtor.

Hiring a real estate professional when buying or selling a home, especially in an uncertain economic climate, means that you can take advantage of their market knowledge, researching skills, and their comparative pricing analytics, as well as their negotiating skills, so that you get the best possible deal.

In today's world of realty where real estate transactions are becoming more complex and negotiations are becoming more aggressive, it is vital for home buyers and sellers have professional representation, otherwise they risk the ability to secure future investment opportunities.

When you search for a realtor consider these aspects:

1) Local Knowledge - look for a realtor that is familiar with your neighborhood, as they will have valuable insight into the region, possible opportunities for growth and what suburbs represent the best value in terms of investment appreciation.

2) Experience - the more experience your realtor has, the better, because they will be experts at negotiation, and be able to offer you sound advice.

3) Communication - a realtor with little or no communication skills is not a good choice. Find a realtor who you can talk to, and one that you actually enjoy being around, because you will spend a fair bit of time with them discussing your wants and needs.

Linda Wieczorek your Phoenix Realtor AZPrideProperty.Com

Article Source: Krueger, Michelle (2009) Local Experts Find Success in Today's Challenging Real Estate Market

Willo Historical Neighborhood - Great Buys

2009-05-18T09:17:00.000-07:00

interested in viewing any of these Amazing Homes Call Linda 602-391-8246

1st time Home Buyers- Time to BUY!!!

2009-05-02T08:59:00.000-07:00

Get Moving!! With interest reates down to the lowest rates in yrs and home prices down. Then you throw an $8,000 tax credit. What are you waiting for.

Home purchase must close by December 1 - NOT December 31!
It’s not too soon to start moving on this! Your home needs to be under contact by October at the latest.
You should start shopping NOW ! September at the very latest but. By September the available inventory of homes for sale will be picked over - the best homes will be long gone.

The law defines “first-time home buyer” as a buyer who has not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase.\

First Time Home Buyers Need to Purchase Now to Qualify for Tax Credit

2009-04-30T12:24:00.000-07:00

Federal Tax Credit for First Time Home Buyers is Contingent on Closing Home Sale by November 30th.

Time is running out for home buyers looking to purchase their first home and qualify for the $8,000 Federal tax credit. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) first time home buyers looking to purchase a new home in 2009 and take advantage of the $8,000 first time home buyer tax credit, should do so immediately in order to qualify. The Federal tax credit is contingent upon closing the home sale prior to the November 30th deadline. full story..

Staging on a Budget

2009-04-29T13:33:00.000-07:00

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.

Stunning Beauty in "Gay Friendly Willo Neighborhood in Phoenix"

2009-04-24T20:06:00.000-07:00

For information on the Gay Friendly Neighborhood in Phoenix give me a jingle 602-391-8246 or E-mail Linda Wieczorek

Featured properties on this web site may not necessarly be listed by Linda Wieczorek. They represent homes Linda Wieczorek has previewed and selected for her Fine Homes of Phoenix buying clients and visitors to AZPrideProperty.com

Gay and Lesbian Retirement

2009-04-24T19:52:00.000-07:00

Many gays and lesbians reject the traditional retirement community lifestyle. After years of living freely, they don’t want to move back into the closet. So make way for the following alternatives:

Marigold Creek which is a new retirement community for gays, lesbians and their family and friends. Marigold Creek is located In Surprise, Arizona, which is 30 minutes from Phoenix. Close to Sun City West on Phoenix’s rapidly growing west valley. Marigold Creek is a welcoming and "straight-friendly" community.

1. They offer the choices of 2 or 3 bedroom Single Family Homes or Patio Homes with Casitas available for an additional charge.

2. They offer 1 to 3 bedroom Condos, all of these in a “Contemporary Southwestern” design.

3. The property is owned by Out Properties and is a gay-owned and operated
Realetate development company with many years of experience in building luxurious, lifestyle properties.

4. A Green Community, and pet friendly community complete with a dog run and bath area.

5. Marigold Creek is specifically designed to cater to the wishes of the “gayby boomer” generation.

6. Walking Trails - Persuades you to “break a sweat” with the breath-taking beauty that surround you.

7. Coffee Kiosk - serves fine coffees, teas and other beverages in a cozy gathering place.

8. Travel Club - Coordinates trips to exciting destinations for you, your loved ones and neighbors who share your love for seeing new places and faces.
Activities Director - Plans enjoyable outings and programs that suit your active lifestyle.

9. Gated Entrance - Contributes to the safe, secure and full-acceptance atmosphere that makes Marigold Creek such a unique place.
10. Poolside Bar and Grill - Features delicious snacks and refreshing beverages so you can make the most of your time in the sun.

11. Daytime Spa and Salon - Provides the finest relaxation and beauty treatments without ever leaving the comfort of Marigold Creek.

12. Concierge Service - Supports the entire living experience, from securing tickets to area events to helping you find the best dry cleaning services in the area.

13. Fitness Center - Features state-of-the-art equipment in the ideal environment for staying fit.

14. Spiritual Center - Provides a relaxing and meditative space for residents of all faiths and devotions.

15. Theatre & Cabaret - And we love the theatre, Engages the community with live entertainment and movies. Showcases the residents with the Annual Talent Show!

How do I secure a home at Marigold Creek or view the community?
Contact Linda Wieczorek, 602-391-8246 or e-mail me.

Rainbow Vision has developed gay and lesbian retirement communities in Santa Fe, New Mexico and Palm Springs, California.
Currently under development, Paradise One Condominiums is part retirement community and part upscale condominium, “a progressive community that is as Straight-Friendly as it is Gay Friendly.”
Stonewall Communities’ vision is to develop and offer a range of options for older GLBT people. Stonewall Audubon Circle, currently under development, will be open to anyone regardless of race, colour, national origin, religion, familial status, age, handicap, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
The Resort on Carefree Boulevard bills itself as Southwest Florida’s premier lesbian destination, with a mixture of full-time and holiday residents ranging in age from 40 to 85 years, both working and retired.
Despite its name, Finnish Mummolaakso (’Grandma Valley’) is a solidarity group open to women of all ages, with most members aged between 30 and 60. The organisation aims to provide healthcare and terminal care for lesbians and bisexual women, with the ultimate aim of providing retirement housing services, too.
F
For information and any of these communities contact Linda Wieczorek

First Time Home Buyers & Investors... Now is the time to buy in Phoenix

2009-04-24T15:14:00.000-07:00

Things have changed in the Phoenix market in the last month, it is NOW time to buy. All you first time buyers who've been on the fence, there are some Great Homes out there just waiting for you. The interest rates are down and plentty of inventory. I have been working with investors who are busy building their real estate portfolios. it is time for you.

Several market indicators suggest the Greater Phoenix market is rebounding, primarily in the under $200,000 price range. This is not to say prices are going to go up soon... that would be wishful thinking and I'd be stupid to suggest it. However, prices in the under $200,000 market are stabilizing and that market is pretty darn hot right now.

To sum things up, if your thinking about that first home, investment property or just getting back into home ownership in the under $200,000 range you may want to move forward. At the top-right portion of my Blog there is a sweet home search tool. We invite you to take a look, dream a bit and maybe you'll find something that really excites and surprises you.

Have a great weekend. If you have any questions, we're here for you. We love to help first time home buyers and investors have the real estate experience of their life.

Contact Linda NOW

The city of Phoenix has kicked off their first Neighborhood Stabilization Program

2009-04-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

To find out if you are eligible for federal money to help purchase an Arizona foreclosure home, go to yourwayhomeaz.com.
The new site lists information on the state's neighborhood stabilization programs, which target areas hardest hit by foreclosures.

Most of the programs offer down-payment money to home buyers.

The programs are funded by the $121 million that the state, Maricopa and Pima counties, six Valley cities and Tucson recently received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Home buyers can qualify for money from more than one program in some communities. The money must be spent before 2011.

"Homeownership Assistance" assisting buyers of foreclosed homes, townhouses or condominiums with $15,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance. Why not give it a try!!!

If you are interested in finding out how to purchase a foreclosed property using this program Call Linda at 602-391-8246 or send me an e-mail.

Guide to Gay old Phoenix

2009-04-20T15:18:00.000-07:00

The Valley's lesbian and gay community is large and thriving, especially in the area of downtown Phoenix. With more than 30 gay bars - more per capita than anywhere in the United States - a growing number of gay-friendly churches, heavily gay residential neighborhoods and plenty of resources and publications that cater to the lesbian and gay demographic, the Valley offers a positive environment to live and work.

There's gay-specific bowling (International Gay Bowling Organization [igbo.org], gay square dancing (Desert Valley Squares [www.iagsdc.org/desertvalleysqs]) and gay hiking and camping (Desert Adventures [www.desertadventures.org].

Gay-borhoods and business

Most of downtown Phoenix's historic neighborhoods, especially Coronado, Encanto and Willow, have a heavy gay and lesbian presence. The Greater Phoenix Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce reported in 2004 that the ZIP code with the highest gay population is 85013, the area fanning out from Central Avenue and Camelback Road. The gay-owned Clarendon Hotel+Suites, incidentally, is in the 85013 ZIP.

Unique on Central (4700 N. Central Ave.; 602-279-9691; www.uniqueoncentral.com) sells gay and lesbian paraphernalia - videos, jewelry and adult items.

As for the arts, Stray Cat Theatre and Nearly Naked Theatre produce quite a bit of gay fare but are not specifically gay, while The Alternative Theatre Company (www.thealternativetheatreco.com) produces exclusively gay works and bills itself as the state's "only gay and lesbian theater company."

Bars and Restaurants

Nightclubs of every genre exist in the Phoenix area. Here's a sampling:

Cash Inn Country
2140 E. McDowell Rd., Phoenix
(602) 244-9943
www.cashinncountry.com
Country dance bar.

Charlie's
77 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix
(602) 265-0224
www.charliesphoenix.com
Twenty years old and always hoppin', filled with fresh-faced cowboy types.

Phoenix La Roca Bar
4129 N. 7th Ave., Phoenix
(602) 248-8559
www.phoenixlaroca.com
The only gay hookah bar in town.

A League of Our Own
40 E. Camelback Rd., St. 102
(602) 252-2354
Supper club with live jazz, sometimes performed by the always fabulous Margo Reed.

Club Vibe
3031 East Indian School Rd.
(602) 224-9977
www.clubvibe602.com
Lesbian bar formerly known as "Ain't Nobody's Bizness."

Amsterdam
718 N. Central Ave.
(602) 258-6122
www.amsterdambar.com
Upscale martini bar.

BS
7125 E. 5th Ave., Scottsdale
(480) 945-9028
Casual sports bar with lots of regulars and THE place to be on Halloween.

Pat O's Bunkhouse Saloon
4428 North 7th Ave., Phoenix
(602) 200-9154
www.bunkhousesaloon.com
$1 drinks on Thursday nights for men in their underwear.

Pumphouse II
4132 E. McDowell Rd., Phoenix
(602) 275-3509
www.pumphouseii.com
Karaoke and drag shows, no pretension.

Roscoe's
4531 N. 7th St., Phoenix
(602) 285-0833
www.roscoeson7.com
Lively sports bar.

Wild Card
801 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler
(480) 857-3088
The east Valley's only lesbian bar.

Gay-friendly churches

Within the past decade, more and more churches are becoming "affirming," meaning that they incorporate into their mission the concept that all worshippers, regardless of xx or sexual orientation, are welcome. The United Church of Christ is, as a whole, is known for being gay-supportive, as are the Unitarian Universalists. The clergy group No Longer Silent (nolongersilent.org) is made up of representatives from two prominent "gay churches," Community Church of Hope and Gentle Shepard (www.gsmcc.org), and offers support to gays and lesbians.

Here are some welcoming churches, plus a motto or a bit about the philosophy of each:

Trinity Episcopal Cathedral
100 W. Roosevelt, Phoenix
(602) 254-7126
www.trinitycathedral.com
"Radical hospitality, radical equality, radical love."

Grace Lutheran
1124 N. 3rd St., Phoenix
(602) 258-3787
www.graceinthecity.com
Known as "The Pancake Church" for its pancake-breakfast outreach to the homeless.

Valley Unitarian Universalist Church
6400 W. Del Rio St., Chandler
(480) 899-4249
www.vuu.org
"A welcoming community that honors diversity in all its forms."

Olive Tree Christian Fellowship at Palo Cristi Presbyterian
3535 E. Lincoln Dr., Paradise Valley
(602) 955-6080
www.palocristipres.org
"We welcome and encourage all people to join us in knowing Jesus Christ and learning about our faith."

Asbury United Methodist
1601 W. Indian School Rd., Phoenix
(602) 279-2369
www.aplaceforallpeople.com
"A place for all people to become disciples of Jesus Christ."

Casa de Cristo Evangelical Church
1029 E. Turney Ave., Phoenix
(602) 265-2831
www.casadecristo.org
"Christ-centered, Bible-based, spirit-filled, open and affirming."

Christ of the Desert Catholic of the Antioch at Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church
801 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix
"We welcome all to our altars regardless of race, gender, marital or economic status, sexual orientation or denominational affiliation."

Community Church of Hope
4121 N. 7th Ave., Phoenix
(602) 234-2180
www.communitychurchofhope.com
"A diverse group of people who are God-centered and Christ-driven, seeking to provide God's hope and love to all."

Scottsdale Congregational United Church of Christ
4425 North Granite Reef Road
Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
(480) 946-2900
www.scucc.com
"An open and Affirming community of Christians who gladly welcome into our midst any person who seeks Christian fellowship regardless of race, age, gender or sexual orientation."

Via de Cristo United Methodist Church
20199 N. 78th Place, Scottsdale
(480) 515-4490
www.viadecristo.com
"Open hearts, open minds, open doors"

Healing Waters Ministries
225 West University Drive, Suite 105, Tempe
(480) 894-8681
www.hwmaz.com
"A Non-Denominational Christian church for lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgenders and heterosexuals."

Resources and publications

• OutlookAz Magazine (www.outlook-mag.com) is the Valley's premiere gay publication. The magazine says it is "edgy, upscale" and "offers a clever mix of lifestyle elements targeted to the sophisticated reader."

• Echo Magazine (www.echomag.com) is a well-respected gay-centric news magazine that has been around since 1990 and focuses less on nightlife than issues.

• The Greater Phoenix Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (www.gpglcc.org) is a non-profit that focuses on networking within the Valley.

• For entertainment and events, check out www.visitgayarizona.com, www.gayarizona.org and www.funmaps.com.

Events

The pre-eminent lesbian and gay event in the state is the Arizona Pride Festival, also known as the "Party in the Park." Held the second weekend of April each year at Phoenix's Steele Park, it has drawn close to 20,000 people in recent years. (www.azpride.org)

Other annual events include the following:

• OutFar Lesbian & Gay Film Festival, February (outfar.org)

• Road Runner Regional Rodeo and the Sierra Stampede in Sierra Vista, January.

• Rainbows Festival, October in Phoenix's Heritage Park. (rainbowsfestival.com).

• AIDS Walk Arizona, November. By Carrie Miner

Welcome to the Gayborhood

2009-04-20T14:44:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the "Valley of the Sun" - Gay Phoenix and Scottsdale

2009-04-20T14:41:00.000-07:00

Phoenix and Scottsdale sit in the heart of a valley which enjoys 325 sunny days a year and is aptly named "The Valley of the Sun". The temperatures here are warm year round and the summers bring many days over 100 degrees . Phoenix, probably due to its warmth, has a laid back small town feel. But don't let that stop you -- it has a thriving gay community and there's a growing variety of dining and nightlife options for all types here. Gay nightlife and the bars & clubs are mostly concentrated in central Phoenix between 7th Ave and 7th Street and Indian School and Camelback ..

ARIZONA REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE, INC. HOME SALES / per Month

2009-04-16T16:29:00.000-07:00

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. Home Sales and Home Listings.

A Great 'How-To' Website

2009-04-16T16:00:00.000-07:00

Hello. We're happy to be able to share more information with you that we think you may find interesting. Have you heard of the web site that provides step-by-step how-to information for thousands of common projects, from how to replace a leaky faucet to how to plan a dinner party? It's How-To' Website

We enjoy being able to share Internet sites that we think may be useful to our clients. It's one of the ways we say that we care about you and your family. Of course, we have a whole lot more information that we can share with you. We just need to know your needs and goals. We find that the better prepared our clients are in advance of the actual purchase or sale of a home, the less anxiety they tend to experience.

Don't think you are bothering us with your questions, either. That's what we're here for. You want someone you can trust with a decision of this size. That's why we encourage you to call or e-mail us, so that we can get to know each other.

Whatever your real estate needs, we look forward to the chance of working with you.
Feel Free to Contact me at any time with any real estate questions.

Scottsdale Arizona Foreclosures

2009-04-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

Goodyear/Avondale Bank Foreclosures

2009-04-16T13:55:00.000-07:00

Appealing Your Property Appraisal Phoenix Arizona

2009-04-13T06:51:00.000-07:00

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 ........

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 .

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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 .
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.

Iowa marriage no longer limited to one man, one woman

2009-04-09T17:58:00.000-07:00

WHAT A GREAT DAY TO LIVE IN IOWA...WE WON TODAY!!!!!

The Iowa Supreme Court this morning unanimously upheld gays' right to marry. "The Iowa statute limiting civil marriage to a union between a man and a woman violates the equal protection clause of the... Read More

When the Iowa Supreme Court ruled on Friday that gays can marry in the Hawkeye State, gay marriage became not just a coastal thing. Deep in the rural heartland, a straightforward opinion — written by a justice appointed by a conservative Republican governor — methodically eviscerates one argument after another that for decades has been used to keep marriage the sole preserve of straight couples. "This class of people asks a simple and direct question: How can a state premised on the constitutional principle of equal protection justify exclusion of a class of Iowans from civil marriage?"

Video Link

Top 10 Bargin Markets and Phoenix AZ is #7

2009-04-03T10:26:00.000-07:00

Bargain Market #10: Washington, D.C.
is prime for bargain-seeking homebuyers. The area has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country and boasts bustling nightlife and culture. With home prices down 12.15 percent over the past year, this may be the time to buy in the nation's capital.

Bargain Market #9: Detroit, MI
Home prices have fallen 16.42 percent over the past year in this Midwestern metropolis, as job losses fueled a flood of foreclosures on the market. But Detroit is committed to restoration and revitalization, as evidenced by its mix of historic districts and new developments.

Bargain Market #8: San Diego, CA
With year-round sun, sand and surf, who wouldn't want to live in Southern California's gem, San Diego? Home prices are down 18.03 percent over the past year, so you could find a great deal in this once super-hot market. Plus, it doesn't hurt to be a couple hours' drive from Los Angeles, in case you want to bargain hunt there as well.

Bargain Market #7: Phoenix, AZ
The Valley of the Sun is teeming with potential bargains, with home prices down 18.85percent year-over-year. The Phoenix market was a hotbed of speculative overbuying during the real estate boom, and these days, stretched-thin investors may be willing to negotiate. Homebuyers who can appreciate this rugged Southwest region will find many diverse neighborhoods to choose from. bargin Homes are flying off the market right now..

Bargain Market #6: Napa, CA
Like many vacation destinations, Napa in Northern California saw a surge in speculative buying that inflated real estate prices during the boom. Today, buyers can find homes in beautiful wine country selling for 20.11 percent less than last year. If you're a luxury homebuyer, you may find multi-million-dollar properties offered at steep discounts.

Bargain Market #5: Miami, FL
The heat is on in Miami. Home prices have come down 24.15 percent over the past year, meaning you won't have to shell out as much to enjoy tropical weather, beautiful beaches and hot nightlife year-round.

Bargain Market #4: Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Shedding its "spring break" reputation, Ft. Lauderdale has redefined itself as a pedestrian-friendly, 24-hour community offering a mix of traditional Old Florida neighborhoods with trendy shopping and nightlife. Prices have fallen 25.95 percent since last year, so if a laid-back yet lively lifestyle is what you crave, start here.

Bargain Market #3: Las Vegas, NV
Gamblers weren't the only ones taking risks in Sin City. Eager developers and investors flocked to Las Vegas looking to cash in big on the real estate boom. The hype is over, and prices have plunged 32.60 percent since last year. The city is consistently among RealtyTrac's list of top foreclosure markets, making this area prime for bargain hunters who want to spice up their lifestyle.

Bargain Market #2: Naples, FL
Florida is going Strong with 3 Ciies on the list. Known for its vibrant art scene and the natural scenery of the nearby Everglades, Naples was another vacation destination that was overrun with real estate investors during the boom years. Prices plummeted 32.87 percent over the past year, offering new opportunities for buyers looking to live the beach-town lifestyle.

Bargain Market #1: Stockton, CA
The inland California cities -- Stockton, Merced, Modesto, Vallejo, Riverside, Bakersfield, Madera and Fresno, to name a few -- have been the hardest hit since the real estate housing bubble burst. Home prices in Stockton plummeted a whopping 40.19 percent last year, dragged down by a barrage of foreclosures on the market.

But Stockton's proximity to both the San Francisco Bay Area and the Sacramento area gives it an advantage over other struggling markets. In the past, Bay Area folks sought affordable housing in Stockton (which changed when the market became inflated). Once prices stabilize, the city will have the potential to return to its "affordable" status.

If you are interested in investing in the Phoenix Real estate market I am committed to assisting real estate investors who would like to take advantage of the booming real estate market and investment opportunities in the Phoenix, Arizona area. Contact Linda Wieczorek

Ingredients of a Great Real Estate Investment

2009-04-03T10:14:00.000-07:00

Boost your odds for a successful resale down the road with these four essentials

Think ahead when buying a home. An abode with in-demand features like central air conditioning will be easier to sell down the road.
Whether you're shopping for an investment property, buying a starter home or relocating for your job yet again, your next home likely won't be your last. That's why it pays to go house hunting with your successors in mind. After all, buyers are a demanding bunch, and simple renovations won't always satisfy their stringent criteria. Luckily, you can tip the resale scales in your favor by planning wisely and purchasing a property with these in-demand amenities.

#1: The Hottest Feature
An overwhelming majority of buyers want a cool house, but that doesn't mean you need to scour the listings for basement theaters or zoned audio systems. Take this request literally -- central air conditioning is the most sought-after feature, with nearly three-quarters of buyers ranking it "very important" in a National Association of Realtors survey. And in the sweltering South, that number jumps to 91 percent. Central air is a pricey add-on, especially in a home without a forced-air heating system, so you may want to favor a house that already beats the heat.

#2: Essential Storage
While curb appeal and designer decor can attract potential buyers, what they can't see is just as important -- like, say, an Imelda Marcos-worthy shoe collection or a rusty project car. Call them packrats if you will, but buyers are serious about storage space. Fifty-seven percent say a garage with two or more bays is key, and 53 percent want a walk-in closet in the master bedroom.

#3: Modern Musts
Your next house can be any hue, as long as it's green on the inside. The eco-friendly trend gets high marks from 46 percent of buyers, so try to find a property with energy-efficient features like newer windows, Energy Star appliances and a well-maintained HVAC system. And a growing number of buyers want to stay wired at home -- nearly half say cable and satellite connections are important, while 40 percent want access to high-speed Internet.

#4: Exterior Excellence
When you're shopping for a house, what's on the outside definitely counts. Half of all buyers say a backyard is important, and 36 percent would like a fence for their pups (and their privacy). And you know the real estate cliche about location, location, location? Make it your house-hunting mantra. "Location, you can't change. Everything else, you can," says Pat Vredevoogd Combs, the immediate past president of the National Association of Realtors. Research the local school district before you invest -- even if you don't have kids, the next owner might. And steer clear of high-power lines, highways and airports, which can raise red flags for buyers.

Most importantly, remember that trends can vary widely between states. A two-bedroom may seem teeny in Texas but downright luxurious in Malibu, and an adobe house might have slightly more appeal in Santa Fe than in northern Michigan. "Talk to your Realtor and find out what things are most important in your marketplace," Vredevoogd says. "And always keep resale in mind." You may not be able to check off every item on a prospective buyer's wish list, but the right features can lay the groundwork for a solid investment. By Kara Wahlgren, FrontDoor.com

Domestic Partner Registry

2009-04-02T17:39:00.000-07:00

In Phoenix, Arizona a Domestic Partner Registry identifies a relationship that grants visitation rights to a domestic partner in any health-care facility in Phoenix. Medical powers of attorney or advance directives do not guarantee visitation rights to domestic partners who are not family members. Only family members have visitation rights if there is no registered domestic partnership.

Technically, no other rights are conferred by this registry. An additional advantage of registration may be that it could serve as proof to employers who recognize domestic partnerships for benefit purposes.

Although the registry is often thought of as being an accommodation for gay and lesbian couples, there are many heterosexual couples, living together in a committed relationship but not married, who can avail themselves of the registry.

Finally, no one is required to register; it is simply an option. The registry in Phoenix began accepting applicants on February 9, 2009.

Prerequisites for Phoenix Domestic Partner Registry
1.Both partners must reside within the City of Phoenix.
2.Both partners have to be present to register.
3.Both partners must have valid photo ID issued by a government agency within the U.S. that includes name, date of birth, weight, height and hair and eye color.
4.The couple may be same-sex or opposite-sex.
5.Both partners must share a residence in Phoenix.
6.Neither partner may be married to or in a civil union with anyone else.
7.Both partners must be at least 18 years old.
8.Partners may not be blood relatives.
Even if you are already registered in another city or state, you must register again in the City of Phoenix for the purposes of this registry.
When the couple registers, a Declaration of Domestic Partnership must be completed, affirmed and signed by both applicants in the presence of a City Clerk notary. The registered domestic partners each receive a copy of the completed Declaration of Domestic Partnership document with the official City of Phoenix seal.

Either partner may terminate the domestic partnership registration by completing an application available at the City of Phoenix.

There is a non-refundable registration fee. This registry is for the City of Phoenix only. It is not an Arizona registry and other cities within the Greater Phoenix area are not bound by it.

For more information, contact the Phoenix City Clerk Department at 602-262-6811.

Bank Forclosed Property - Goodyear Arizona - Positive CASH FLOW

2009-04-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

Phoenix’s $15,000 incentive for home buyers purchasing a bank owned home.

2009-03-18T17:30:00.000-07:00

Yes , you can purchase a home and get money for doing...The City of Phoenix is offering this program... This is true but not as easy as it may seem.

The $15,000 is a loan that must be repaid when the home is sold or refinanced. So...yes,you can purchase that home and pay the money back later.

The money only can be used toward down payments and closing costs. The home needs to be within Phoenix city limits, it must be a bank-owned home, the buyer must qualify for the loan according to FHA guidelines and you must take an 8 hour credit counseling class. The home must be more than 15% below appraised value of the home and then there are income restrictions, inspection, and disclosure requirements among other things.

At first I thought it sounded pretty darn good and then I started thinking about it... I am in trouble NOW!!! Thats what I have been doing all year. I have sold all Bank Owned and all were 10%-17% below list price and appraisal .. asking for closing cost no brainier, was no big deal at all..MMMMM

I dont know where I am going with this yet...BUT... If you would like more information about this 15,000 program give me a jingle Linda 602-391-8246
I do need to do a little more research...

NSP Homeownership Fact Sheet

Charming Historic bungalow in Coronado

2009-02-26T11:46:00.000-08:00

2322 N EDGEMERE ST Phoenix, AZ 85006
WOW- great starter in Coronaado!!!!

Large remodeled kitchen w/large island overlooking open great room with French doors leading to private patio & yard w/canopy of mesquite trees. Kitchen has upgraded cabinetry,and tons of storage.Close to downtown Phoenix. This property is to be sold AS IS & is lender owned.

Call To view your new home!
Linda Wieczorek
602-391-8246 or email AZhomes4u@gmail.com

Willo Historic Real estate

2009-02-26T10:06:00.000-08:00

530 W PALM LN Phoenix, AZ 85003 $334,000

Considered one of the most preferred streets in the Willo District! This not so little house is charming like a cottage, but is almost 1800 square feet. Inviting front porch leads into the living room with beautiful wood floors and a brick fireplace. Formal dining room and large family room with a second fireplace are great for entertaining. The eat in kitchen has a modern feel w/SS appliances and a charming built in wine rack. Bathrooms have been tastefully remodeled, and there are warm designer colors through out the home. French doors lead to the covered travertine patio overlooking the large lawn in the private back yard. Inside Laundry! Two car detached garage with plenty of storage. An awesome value in Willo! Not bank owned or a short sale!

Interested in viewing this HOME? Give a jingle or send me an e-mail.

Linda Wieczorek
602-391-8246
AZhomes4u@gmail.com

Deal in the Willow

2009-02-26T09:34:00.000-08:00

Does it get any better then this?
67 W CAMBRIDGE AVE Phoenix, AZ 85003 $150,000

Transitional ranch home in the Prestigious Willo Historic District with some great mid-century features. Home is in dire need of rehab. To be sold in AS IS condition, Seller is unable to make repairs. Home will need major overhaul to be liveable. Quiet street on cul-de-sac very close to all of mid -town and down town's amenities. Must have vision as to what this house could be.

Interested in viewing? This one will go fast...
Linda Wiecorek
602-391-8246
Arizona Elite Properties
azhomes4u@gmail.com

Soul Invictus 1022 NW Grand Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85007	Space 55 636 E Pierce Street Phoenix, AZ 85004
Modified Arts 407 E Roosevelt Avenue Phoenix AZ 85004	The Chocolate Factory 1105 NW Grand Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phoenix Theatre "Little Theatre" 100 E. McDowell Phoenix, AZ 85007	Warehouse 1005 1005 N 1st St Phoenix, AZ 85004

Phoenix AZ Gay Urban Living, Lifestyles and Homes

Search Historical Homes in Phoenix

Search Historical Homes in Phoenix

Specializing In:

FOR HOMES IN PHOENIX AND THE METRO PHOENIX AZ AREA USING FLEXMLS®, THE OFFICIAL AND LIVE MLS!

Smoked Bass

1 cup water 1/3 cup sugar 1/4 cup Non-iodized salt 2 cups soy sauce/optional use broth 1/2 tsp. Onion powder 1/2 tsp. Garlic powder 1/2 tsp. Pepper 1/2 tsp. Tabasco sauce 1 cup dry white wine

Search Historical Homes in Phoenix

Specializing In:

FOR HOMES IN PHOENIX AND THE METRO PHOENIX AZ AREA USING FLEXMLS®, THE OFFICIAL AND LIVE MLS!

Untitled

Dinner, yum

Bunny first swim of the yr

My fern loves it's new home

FB

Another cool tool to figure out

Top Home Trends for 2011

What does it mean to be 'Gay in America'?

Prop 8 -

Housing market diagnosis: Bipolar

For Rent: 3BR/2BA Single Family House in Avondale, AZ, $1,300/month

Total Roof Warranty By Roof Rx or Shall I say Warning about RX Roofing

Step 1. Order by submitting an application online, by fax: (310) 693-0826 or contact your account executive. You may also contact us toll-free.

Step 2. We request one of the following to ensure service of coverage:

Step 3. Make payment with MasterCard, Visa, check, or by submitting escrow information.

Relax! The Total Roof Warranty will protect your entire home from covered roofing failures resulting in leaks due to normal wear and tear. You will receive one roof maintenance visit approximately 30-45 days after COE or renewal.

Overview

Home inspection report, a roof Inspection report, or a roof certification from a licensed roofing contractor.

Answers to the Most Common Questions on Green Real Estate Investing

“Tell me again why green will make me more money”

“Isn’t green more expensive?”

“Why would people spend more money to live in a green home?”

“No one is really serious about green, that’s just talk, so why should I bother?”

“What’s the most important thing to do to make an investment property green?”

“Do I need to install solar?”

“I don’t know anything about green, how can I get up to speed?”

“Where can I find green products and materials?”

“Intern! Why would I hire an intern and why would they work for me for free?”

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1 cup water
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup Non-iodized salt
2 cups soy sauce/optional use broth
1/2 tsp. Onion powder
1/2 tsp. Garlic powder
1/2 tsp. Pepper
1/2 tsp. Tabasco sauce
1 cup dry white wine