The Most Expensive Home sold in Arizona last week

The most expensive home that sold in Arizona last week is a property unlike I've ever featured in this series before. Located in Flagstaff, Arizona this multi-million dollar luxury log cabin is a magnificent custom built mountain-top retreat. The designer of this property seamlessly blended reclaimed barn wood, hand laid stone work, rustic metals, and modern conveniences to create a one-of-a-kind resort hideaway. Situated on more than an acre of forest land and just a short drive away from Snowbowl Ski resort the new owner will be able to take full advantage of the benefits that come with their natural surroundings. 

A private creek running through the property along with a separate enclosed entertainment pavilion which includes a basketball court, theater, workshop, and a space to store up to 12 vehicles are just a few of the other lavish amenities the new owner will enjoy. Inside the main residence there is an endless amount of upgrades and visually stimulating decor. Whether the buyer intends on using this home as their permanent residence, a second home to escape the harsh Arizona Summers, or utilizing this property as a vacation rental, there are many different ways to use this extravagant and prestigious luxury lodge. Click on the picture below for the full MLS listing:

Location: Scottsdale

Size: 11,844 sqft

Bedrooms: 5

Bathrooms: 8

Lot size: 52,708 sqft

 If you are in the luxury home market and want a list of luxury homes available in Arizona, contact us Today! We'd love to help you find your dream home!

January 2016 Market Report - How much is my Gilbert, AZ Home worth?

Every home owner wants to know how much their property is worth. Prices have long since stabilized for the most part here in Arizona and the dramatic shifts in upward and downward pricing have largely ceased. Bidding wars are few and far between and are only reserved for those most sought after locations around the Valley where properties rarely come available. But what can a home owner expect to get from their Gilbert, Arizona home?

The Sold to List ratio is a comparison between the price of what a seller listed their home for sale versus the price in which the home was eventually sold. In January, home sellers in Gilbert, Arizona finally saw an increase in this ratio after four straight months of declines in this statistic. According to the numbers, home owners are getting around 96.4% of their asking price when selling their home. Traditionally, prices and values will drop during the Winter and will start to see increases again once the busy Spring and Summer moving season begins. It's a good sign that this statistic is already showing signs of increasing this early in the year. 

The Sold to List price average is around the same percentage it was a year ago which shows a strong and stable real estate market here in Gilbert, Arizona. This is a good reminder to sellers that although you can list a home for sale at whatever price you feel is fair, the free-market will dictate what the home is worth. Ultimately, a home is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. There are certainly homes that get offers at the full listing price but on average most home owners are only getting close to the 96.4% ratio shown in this latest graph.

Conversely, this is also a good reminder to buyers that sellers are getting the majority of their asking price so low-ball offers are not only being roundly rejected but are completely unrealistic in today's stable market. The Gilbert housing market has been steady all year so a dramatic shift up or down in the Sold to List ratio would be a surprise as we approach the busy Spring and Summer market.  

If you need more information on homes for sale in Arizona or to find out what your current home is worth contact us Today! 

Non HOA Homes for Sale in Gilbert, AZ - Update January 2016

Home Owners Associations can be a very positive and necessary component to a neighborhood. They ensure cleanliness of the streets and sidewalks. In some subdivisions that have common green belt areas, parks, and playgrounds, they are in charge of trimming trees, grass, bushes, and the upkeep of the playground equipment. 

Your neighborhood Home Owners Association will also establish the rules and laws in regards to the appearance of front yards throughout the community which will maintain the integrity and manicured look of the entire subdivision. Did your neighbor share with you their desire to paint the exterior of their home a bright yellow? Well think again! Exterior paint colors must be approved by the HOA as well as most visual exterior home changes. 

Home Owners Associations do come with extra monthly or quarterly fees which are not negotiable and are required of you to pay if you choose to move in to a neighborhood that is managed by an HOA. Most homes currently built in Gilbert, Arizona are in subdivisions managed by Home Owners Associations, however, there are still many resale homes that are not. 

The benefits of purchasing a home that is not maintained by a Home Owners Association are many. Two of the biggest positive aspects of owning a home that has no HOA are you'll never need to get pre-approval for any changes you want to do to your own home, and you don't have the extra monthly or quarterly fees which can add up to over $1,000 extra per year or more. 

Most homes in Gilbert, Arizona that are in areas not governed by an HOA are either located in County Islands or are rural horse properties which means these homes may not be connected to the city's water and sewer systems. These homes usually draw their water from a common well and/or have septic systems. It's important to consider all the positive and negative aspects of purchasing a home in these areas. 

Sales information for Non-HOA homes in Gilbert, Arizona January 2016:

Total Sold Homes: 19

Average List price: $403,053

Average Sold price: $374,816

Approximate Square Footage of Sold homes: 2,216

Average Sold Price per Square Foot: $165.56

Average Days on Market: 85

Click Here for a list of current Homes for sale in Gilbert, AZ with no HOA

There is quite a wide range of homes with no HOA's available in Gilbert. These homes can range from first-time home buyer prices all the way up to luxury homes. Let the Gilbert, Arizona real estate experts at Zion Realty help you through the process of determining whether purchasing a property with no Home Owner's Association is right for you. Contact us Today! 

Animals of the MLS

It's been quite a while since time did not permit me to get this weekly post out but last week was just too much of a whirlwind for me to write it. However, this week has been much more manageable. In this week's edition of Animals of the MLS we have a curious and inquisitive little guy who has been relegated to the backyard for this particular photo shoot. Clearly confused as to the reason they have been exiled I bet this poor pooch is hoping their attempts at begging at the backdoor will pay dividends. 

Instead of exploring the backyard for forgotten buried treasures or barking at a passing neighborhood vehicle, this four-legged family friend has decided to set up camp and keep an eye out on the visitor to their domain. Of course with their water dish being just out of reach on the other side of the glass they could also be waiting for someone to let them inside so they can quench their thirst built up from running around chasing stray cats off of their fence. Whatever the case may be, this cute canine was hopefully only confined to his outdoor prison a few short minutes until the agent was done photographing their domicile.

As for the picture itself I feel dizzy just looking at it. I understand why it was taken as an attempt to showcase the full scope of the open floor-plan, however, it was better in theory and didn't deliver the desired results in the end. Although you can tell the homeowner did make somewhat of an attempt at organizing their possessions the area still looks cluttered. Almost every flat surface in this picture has some sort of item taking up that space. What good does it do touting an open concept floor-plan if you can't properly showcase it to potential home shoppers when they step in to the home? I would have advised the homeowner to more thoroughly de-clutter these rooms and I would have used a wide-angle lens to broaden the scope of this kitchen/great room. 

If you're selling your home in Gilbert, Arizona or the East Valley let the experts at Zion Realty help you. We take professional photos and put together a perfect marketing strategy to sell your property. Contact us Today!

How to Recover from a House Fire - A Step-by-Step Guide

A house fire is a nightmare most homeowners won't ever have to experience. But for the unlucky few, living through the frightening occurrence and subsequent repercussions of a house fire can be upsetting and disheartening.  Whether a home was completely ravaged or mostly salvageable knowing how to begin the process of recovery is an important step in rebuilding your home and your life. 

If a property can be restored after a house fire more than just damage from flames and heat will need to be addressed. There will be smoke damage which occurred due to the blaze and water damage as a direct result of the successful extinguishing process. Also, depending upon the severity of the fire and if the fire department was needed, firefighters may have smashed walls, broken down doors, cut holes in the roof, or shattered windows all in an attempt to save the burning structure. 

Picking up the pieces after a house fire can seem like an insurmountable task but much like anything else in life, you must have a plan. There will be phone calls to make, paperwork to complete, and decisions to be made. Let's consider and discuss the following steps which will need to be addressed:

Immediate Needs

Were there any injuries?

Hopefully you, your family, and any household pets were not harmed as a result of the fire. But injuries may not be due to the flames themselves. In the hurried and frenzied efforts to exit the home broken bones can occur due to a fall, severe cuts or lacerations can happen from falling debris, and smoke inhalation can harm lungs and breathing pathways. Once safely out of the home, determine whether any residents need medical attention and seek immediate assistance if necessary. 

Where will you stay? 

How severe was the house fire? Will the fire department give clearance for you to re-enter the home once the fire has been extinguished? If not, you will need to address immediate lodging issues and also basic clothing and hygiene necessities. Do you have friends or relatives you can contact or is there a nearby hotel in which you can stay? If those are not options for you, local disaster relief services such as the American Red Cross or theSalvation Army may be able to provide you shelter, clothing, food, and other important items. 

Contact your Insurance Company

Don't assume your insurance company is automatically notified of your house fire. Begin the process of recovery immediately by calling and initiating the insurance claim. Depending upon your policy, your insurance provider may also educate you on the availability of funds at your disposal to be used for food and lodging throughout the restoration process. They can also educate you on any fire damage assessments and estimates that will need to be scheduled and completed. 

Short-Term Needs

Secure your home

It is not the responsibility of the fire department to ensure your home is completely locked and secure once their job is complete. Are there windows that need to be boarded up? Do you need to replace doors along with locks and handles so that the security of your home can be maintained? There may be many valuable items remaining in your home that were not damaged as a result of the fire. Securing your house and it's contents should be a top priority.

Research Disaster Recovery Contractors

Companies that specialize in disaster recovery are an essential part of the rebuilding process. They know exactly what to do and where to begin from removing and thoroughly cleaning undamaged belongings, to demolition and reconstructing any areas of the property that were destroyed. Your insurance company may already have a list of preferred and recommended companies to contact and will more than likely require multiple quotes from different businesses. 

Create a damaged items list

Once you are cleared by the fire Marshall or building inspector to re-enter your residence you will need to generate an extensive and thorough list of all items, big or small, that were ruined or damaged due to the fire. Not only will you need to provide this list to your insurance company as a part of your overall claim, but it will be imperative for you to understand the scope and magnitude of items that will require replacement. 

Replace essential personal items

Did you have important and vital personal or financial items damaged in the fire such as drivers licenses, birth certificates, credit cards, titles to deeds, check books, passports, medical records, or social security cards? These all should be included on your damaged items list but will need to be replaced quicker than other possessions as most of these types of personal records are generally an essential part of daily life. 

Are you aware that you can also request damaged money to be replaced? Even if more than half of a monetary bill is burned or damaged it's possible to have it replaced by the Federal Reserve Bank. There are two options for you to request replacement of paper money that has been burned in a fire:

• Take the remaining bill(s) to your regional Federal Reserve Bank
• Mail the damaged bill(s) "registered mail, return receipt requested" to the following address to request replacement:

Department of the Treasury Bureau of Engraving and Printing

Office of Currency Standards

P.O. Box 37048

Washington, DC 20013

Damaged or melted coins may also be taken to your regional Federal Reserve Bank or mailed by "registered mail, return receipt requested" to:

Superintendent of U.S. Mint

P.O. Box 400

Philadelphia, PA 19105

To replace U.S. Savings Bonds that have been destroyed, download form PD F 1048 from the U.S. Treasury Department at www.ustreas.gov and mail to:

Department of Treasury

Bureau of the Public Debt

Savings Bonds Operations

P.O. Box 1328

Parkersburg, WV 26106-1328

Re-establish a Routine

It's unsettling for adults and children alike to be displaced from their home and normal daily routine. Getting back to a familiar life pattern as quickly as possible is absolutely essential. Do you or your family have weekly traditions such as a special movie night, game night or pizza night? Is there a specific television program you or your kids enjoy watching every day? These and other familiar habits can be completely undone when dealing with the ramifications of a house fire. Resuming an orderly and typical routine will go a long way towards relieving some of the stress associated with this ordeal. 

Long-Term Needs

Storing household items

It may take several months before you are able to re-inhabit your home after a fire and with any luck there will be a great deal of personal belongings that made it through unscathed. This property will most likely need to be moved and stored until the damaged residence is repaired or rebuilt. Is a friend or family member willing to clear extra garage or basement space for you to keep you possessions safe? Are there any nearby paid storage facilities? Again, this may be a cost covered by your insurance company as a part of your claim. 

Assess future housing decisions

Eventually you'll find yourself sitting down to determine just what to do about your fire damaged home. Can it be restored? Does it need to be torn down and rebuilt? Your insurance company, it's adjusters, and estimators will inform you of the claim amount they will pay towards the reconstruction of your property. Choices and decisions will need to be made. Many individuals would be too psychologically traumatized to live in a home which was destroyed by a fire especially if they were present at the time of the tragedy. Putting your house up for sale after the repairs have been made could be a necessity. Meanwhile, others would be excited and completely comfortable returning to their beloved property after it was restored. These long-term housing options will have to be carefully considered. 

Seek needed professional counseling

There's nothing wrong with admitting the catastrophe of a house fire is too much for you to mentally process. More than just physical damage may need to be repaired in order for you to move on from such a disaster. Also consider the psychological well-being of your children. Are they showing signs of being ill-equipped to handle this adversity? If you're willing to call in the professionals to restore your damaged home, you may also need to seek experienced advice on how to restore your mental sanity. 

Follow these tips before a fire occurs

Invest in a Safe Deposit Box or Fire Proof Safe

Important personal documents, identifications, firearms, and other serious items should be stored at the Post Office in a safe deposit box or at home in a fire proof safe. Spending a little money before tragedy strikes will save you time, hassle, and headaches afterward.  

Ensure your insurance policy is current

It's always a good idea to assess your homeowners insurance policy once a year to determine whether you have the appropriate amount of coverage. This coverage should not only include the home structure but personal property inside the residence. Did you just recently acquire new high-end furniture, a pool table, or expensive home theater equipment? The cost of replacing these items may not be included in your insurance claim if you didn't advise your insurance company beforehand of their purchase. Did you have any major home improvements done on your home before the fire occurred which increased your property value? Make sure to keep accurate receipts and records to prove to your insurance company that these renovations were performed so that your home is properly assessed and valued.

Have an exit plan

When is the last time, if ever, you developed or reviewed a disaster exit strategy? Hearkening back to elementary school fire drills, having a mapped out plan in place in which everyone is familiar will pay off immeasurably if a house fire does occur. Who will be responsible for gathering up the family pets? Which person will be in charge of ensuring all members of the family have vacated the home? Delegating responsibilities beforehand should also be a part of your overall evacuation blueprint. 

Regularly test your household fire prevention systems

This should go without saying yet so many households have out-of-date fire alarms or fire extinguishers that haven't been tested or checked in years. Don't be caught off guard. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, back-up batteries should be replaced in smoke alarms twice a year and each smoke alarm device should be completely replaced every 10 years. This may seem excessive to some but wouldn't you rather spend a few extra dollars twice a year on batteries to ensure you are properly notified of a life-threatening situation?

Fire extinguishers should be checked by a homeowner once a month to ensure they are in proper operating form. Experts also recommend having your fire extinguishers examined and certified once a year by a professional fire protection equipment company. 

Moving back in After a House Fire

How to re-acclimate to your home

Much like having your property broken in to by a thief, living in a home that has been rebuilt or repaired due to a house fire can leave you feeling nervous, apprehensive, and emotionally scarred regardless of whether you're an adult or a child. The first weeks and months back in your home can keep you on edge. Every pop, crack, creek, or unfamiliar noise can send your heart and mind racing again. 

Communicating these fears and reminding all household residents of the safety precautions in place to protect against another disaster is a vital part of the recovery process. Try to keep in mind and discuss the positive aspect of moving back in such as sleeping in your own beds again, re-gaining permanent access to all of your personal belongings that have long since been in storage, playing at all of your beloved neighborhood parks that you've missed while you were away, and catching back up with all of your favorite neighbors. 

Immediately begin to create fun, and pleasant memories which will also go a long way in helping you settle back in to your home after a house fire. Try throwing a house warming party within the first few weeks of you moving back in. This would also be a great time to establish some fresh and entertaining new family traditions and functions that you do each day, week, or month. 

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It's a scenario that no homeowner ever wants to face but statistics show that some of us will experience and live through a house fire in our lifetimes. If you haven't properly prepared your family and home for this disastrous situation then take the time to formulate and implement a plan. If you are currently enduring this difficult ordeal, following these steps can at least help alleviate or lessen some of the struggles involved. 

 At Zion Realty, we're here to assist you with all of your Arizona real estate and home ownership questions. We can help you determine what's best for your family after a house fire or simply be there to assist you with your next home sale or purchase. Contact us Today!

Coronado Ranch Homes for Sale in Gilbert, AZ 85297 - Update Jan '16

When it comes to location, outdoor neighborhood amenities, and lifestyle, Coronado Ranch is a highly sought after community situated in Gilbert, Arizona. While consistent residential and business growth has pushed new home builders further away from the center of Town, Coronado Ranch is perfectly positioned to take advantage of a bustling and vibrant area. Located between Higley Rd and Power Rd to the East and West, and Queen Creek Rd and Germann Rd to the North and South, residents of this wonderful neighborhood have just enough room to stretch out yet are still conveniently within minutes of shopping, freeway access, and Nationally acclaimed restaurants.

As soon as you pull in to this subdivision you'll notice the wide streets and tall, mature landscaping that provide a sense of openness and tranquility. This is a large community of 998 homes, however, once you become a homeowner in Coronado Ranch you'll quickly understand how friendly and inviting this active neighborhood really is. Even on the hottest Summer days or coldest Winter nights there is never a shortage of families outdoors walking their pets, running the winding trails and sidewalks, or playing in one of the many lush and green parks.   

Does your job require a long distance commute each day? Residents of Coronado Ranch have easy access to the 202 Red Mountain Freeway. Do you have children who range in age from toddler to college student? If you call Coronado Ranch your home you'll be minutes away from Coronado Elementary School, Williams Field High School, Cooley Middle School, ASU Polytechnic Campus, and the East Valley Institute of Technology(EVIT). 

Need to catch a flight? Coronado Ranch is just a few miles away from Phoenix/Mesa Gateway Airport. Hungry for entertainment, shopping, and restaurants that have been featured on national television? If you reside in Coronado Ranch you'll have an endless amount of options to choose from since the San Tan Village Mall, Top Golf, and Joe's Farm Grill are all just minutes away. 

If venturing out isn't on your favorite to-do list then Coronado Ranch also has great options for family fun and entertainment built right in to the community. Enjoy a combined 32-acres ofgreenbelts, soccer parks, basketball courts, children's playground areas, and a community splash pad complete with water buckets and water canons! 

Neighborhood Sales information for Coronado Ranch January 2016:

Total Sold Homes: 1

Average List price: $275,000

Average Sold price: $277,997

Approximate Square Footage of Sold homes: 2,134

Average Sold Price per Square Foot: $130.27

Average Days on Market: 40

Click Here for a current list of homes for sale in Coronado Ranch. 

If you or someone you know are interested in purchasing or selling a property in Coronado Ranch or in other areas of Gilbert, Arizona then contact us Today! We are a locally owned real estate brokerage right here in Gilbert and can educate you on the benefits of each community.