Sunday, 28 April 2013

Resale Homes Offer Desirable Qualities Not In A New Home

[caption id="attachment_8661" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Scottsdale Real Estate"]Resale Homes Offer Desirable Qualities Not In A New Home[/caption]

As you look for a home to purchase in your new location, you may be faced with choosing between new homes and resale homes. The advantages of new homes are obvious--the latest conveniences, state-of-the art construction, fresh paint and carpeting throughout. Resale homes, on the other hand, offer many desirable qualities that can't be constructed.

“Aging enhances wine, beef and homes.” 


Charm may be a resale home's most attractive feature. It develops over the years as a home is refined and improved by its owners. Mature landscaping and trees add warmth and beauty throughout older areas. Established schools and neighborhood relationships create a strong sense of community. In addition, many older homes on the market today have been completely updated, offering the best of the old and the new.

Hidden Advantages of Previously Owned Homes


Although many people prefer to buy new homes, the vast majority of buyers prefer resales. According to the National Association of Realtors, 75% of homes sold are resales. 

[caption id="attachment_8662" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Scottsdale Real Estate Winfield Community"]Resale Homes Offer Desirable Qualities Not In A New Home[/caption]

When home buyers ask us about the merits of buying an "old" versus a newly built home, we show them how resales offer some of the best values in the market today. The news gets better when they see the wonderfully diverse resale selection of appealing styles and sizes in many locations and price ranges. Plus, when the owner goes to sell an "old" home, they have what most buyers are looking for.

Here are some of the advantages that make "old" homes so popular: 

Size Appeal


Older homes often have more space inside and out than new homes. Inside, resale homes may have more square footage and higher ceilings; outside, resale lot sizes are typically larger.

Close-in Convenience 


Many resale homes are in older neighborhoods, which are closer to downtown business districts and shopping. New communities are often a distance away from cities and commute times may be much longer.

[caption id="attachment_8663" align="alignright" width="190" caption="Cost Savings"]Resale Homes Offer Desirable Qualities Not In A New Home[/caption]

Cost savings


Resale homes generally are less expensive than similar new homes. One reason could be that resale sellers have more bargaining room than builders who must make a return on the high costs they recently paid for land and building materials. In fact, a NAR study found resale sellers accepted a median drop of $4,000 from their asking price while builders' median drop was only $500. 

More green space 


For tree lovers, resales are a big draw. Older homes typically have mature trees and plantings, unlike what's found in new neighborhoods. 

What you see is what you get


There is no guesswork with older, established neighborhoods. Buyers can research and tour the schools, sample the shopping, and check out the neighbors. In a new-home subdivision, buyers might not want to live with the noise and dirt of construction, may wonder about future development, or deal with possible long bus rides to existing schools and little or no nearby shopping.

Lots of Extras


Many resale buyers cash in on "extras" the owner has already put in, which can save big money. Typical money-saving extras: fenced yards, decks, pools, play sets, window treatments and appliances.

We would be happy to assist you with your house-hunting needs. A resale home can be an excellent value for a buyer in today's market. Call or eMail us for more information.

Link back to this page: http://www.scottsdalerealestatearizona.com/?p=8660

Resale Homes Offer Desirable Qualities Not In A New Home

Wednesday, 17 April 2013

Scottsdale Real Estate 85260


Scottsdale Real Estate 85260 Market Trends


[caption id="attachment_8615" align="alignright" width="304" caption="Scottsdale Real Estate 85260"]Scottsdale Real Estate 85260[/caption]

Scottsdale Arizona is known to be the "West of the Modern West" and annually named among the nations most desirable communities to live in, raise children retire and do business in. It has also been rated as the number one resort community in America.

Scottsdale real estate 85260 is a suburban zip code in Scottsdale, Arizona. The population is primarily white, and mostly married couples. At $235,400 the average home value here is a bit higher than average for the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale metro area, so this probably isn't the place to look for housing bargains.

The median age here is 38.4. There are 17,155 men and 18,753 women. The median age for men is 37.4 while for women the median age is 39.2.

85260 Zip code is located in the Mountain time zone.

Looking for a real estate property in Scottsdale, Arizona? Start your search here


 

Scottsdale Real Estate 85260 Price Trends - Sold vs. Listed


[caption id="attachment_8629" align="alignleft" width="570" caption="Scottsdale Real Estate 85260 Price Trends - Sold vs. Listed"]Scottsdale Real Estate 85260 Price Trends - Sold vs. Listed[/caption]

The median list price in April for single family homes in Scottsdale is $575,000. The list prices increased by 2.86% from the previous month.

The price per square foot for listings in this area is $214.

The median sale price in February for single family homes is $624,000. The sale prices increased by 62.07%from the previous month.

Scottsdale Real Estate 85260 Market Inventory Trends


[caption id="attachment_8630" align="alignleft" width="570" caption="Scottsdale Real Estate 85260 Market Inventory Trends"]Scottsdale Real Estate 85260 Market Inventory Trends[/caption]

The number of active listings in Scottsdale dropped by 1.2% from the previous month.

The median number of days active properties have been listed is 45. This is significantly shorter than the national average.

The number of sales in February dropped by 83.3% from the previous month.

Property Ownership


[caption id="attachment_8631" align="alignleft" width="570" caption="Property Ownership"]Property Ownership[/caption]

This chart shows home occupancy within an area.

A high percentage of ownership can indicate an area where people like to live and stable property prices. While a high percentage of rentals could indicate an area with shifting demographics, a younger community, or possibly a downtown area.

High vacancy rates can indicate that the market is unhealthy and that it could be tough to sell a home in this area.

Statistics for Single Family Homes and Condos 85260


[caption id="attachment_8632" align="alignleft" width="570" caption="Statistics for Single Family Homes and Condos 85260"]Statistics for Single Family Homes and Condos 85260[/caption]

Looking for a place to call home with quality education around the corner, secured communities and a terrific city scene? Then it time to move to Scottsdale, Arizona.

Need help in finding a place to call home? The Luxury Valley Homes Team has numerous amazing property deals to offer. For more information, email or call us at 480-595-6412.

 

 

Scottsdale Real Estate 85260

Thursday, 11 April 2013

Arizona Bridges – Connecting Places



How well do you know Arizona? In your many years of stay in this beautiful and picturesque state, were you able to travel and explore all that Arizona has to offer? Moreover, have you ever noticed the architectural designs of the Arizona bridges when you cross one? Arizona is not just the home of stunning desert landscapes and picturesque mountain views, it is also known for its impressive and elegantly designed bridges.

So let's hit the road and have a tour of some of the famous bridges around Arizona.



  • London Bridge London Bridge

    London Bridge


Located in the Lake Havasu City, London Bridge is a reinforced concrete structure clad in the original masonry of the 1830's bridge which was brought from the city of London. The blocks then shipped overseas through the Panama Canal to California and trucked from Long Beach to Arizona. The reconstruction took 3 years and was completed in the late 1971.

London Bridge and the Lake Havasu have gained its reputation as the recreation of the Southwest because of its ideal climate, captivating scenery and beautiful mountains and azure waters of the Colorado River. Next to Grand Canyon, London Bridge is the second largest attraction in Arizona.



  • Soleri Bridge Soleri Bridge

    Soleri Bridge


Named after the famous artist, architect and philosopher Paolo Soleri, Soleri Bridge and Plaza was once a pedestrian passage and a gathering place along the Scottsdale Waterfront. The bridge demonstrates the importance of solar movement and features two steel-clad high pylons that create a shaft of light. The bridge and plaza also feature the largest assemblage of Soleri's world-famous wind bells.



  • Mill Avenue Bridge Mill Avenue Bridge

    Mill Avenue Bridge


Just south of Scottsdale in Tempe is the Mill Avenue Bridge. The bridge is significant for both its method of construction and artistry of design. The bridge includes two rail bridges slightly downstream from the motor-traffic bridges: a railroad bridge of many decades' standing, and a new bridge to accommodate the Phoenix Light Rail System.


  • Navajo Bridge


Navajo Bridge Navajo Bridge

The Navajo Bridge is located on Highway 89A. Those traveling across the country on Highway 89A between Bitter Springs and Jacob Lake AZ arrive at two bridges similar in appearance spanning the Colorado River. These two bridges, one historic and one new, represent one of only seven land crossings of the Colorado River for 750 miles. Navajo Bridge is approximately 9 miles from the Cliff Dwellers Lodge. Aside from the Glen Canyon Dam, this is the only roadway crossing in the Grand Canyon for over 600 miles. You may also walk across the historic bridge, which offers perfect photography opportunities.

While we know about a little history and the architectural designs of some of Arizona Bridges, make sure to spare some time to visit the bridges while you can - Arizona bridges does not only connect places, it also connects us to where we truly belong.



LVH LogoJane Daley, BA
Jeff Daley, PhD

Luxury Valley Homes - West USA
Mesa Real Estate Arizona
Our Luxury Valley Home Team
480-595-6412

Arizona Bridges – Connecting Places
For more information, please visit our website.

Arizona Bridges – Connecting Places

 

How well do you know Arizona? In your many years of stay in this beautiful and picturesque state, were you able to travel and explore all that Arizona has to offer? Moreover, have you ever noticed the architectural designs of the Arizona bridges when you cross one? Arizona is not just the home of stunning desert landscapes and picturesque mountain views, it is also known for its impressive and elegantly designed bridges.

So let's hit the road and have a tour of some of the famous bridges around Arizona.



  • [caption id="attachment_8573" align="alignright" width="180" caption="London Bridge"]London Bridge[/caption]

    London Bridge




Located in the Lake Havasu City, London Bridge is a reinforced concrete structure clad in the original masonry of the 1830's bridge which was brought from the city of London. The blocks then shipped overseas through the Panama Canal to California and trucked from Long Beach to Arizona. The reconstruction took 3 years and was completed in the late 1971.

London Bridge and the Lake Havasu have gained its reputation as the recreation of the Southwest because of its ideal climate, captivating scenery and beautiful mountains and azure waters of the Colorado River. Next to Grand Canyon, London Bridge is the second largest attraction in Arizona.



  • [caption id="attachment_8574" align="alignright" width="180" caption="Soleri Bridge"]Soleri Bridge[/caption]

    Soleri Bridge




Named after the famous artist, architect and philosopher Paolo Soleri, Soleri Bridge and Plaza was once a pedestrian passage and a gathering place along the Scottsdale Waterfront. The bridge demonstrates the importance of solar movement and features two steel-clad high pylons that create a shaft of light. The bridge and plaza also feature the largest assemblage of Soleri's world-famous wind bells.



  • [caption id="attachment_8583" align="alignright" width="180" caption="Mill Avenue Bridge"]Mill Avenue Bridge[/caption]

    Mill Avenue Bridge




Just south of Scottsdale in Tempe is the Mill Avenue Bridge. The bridge is significant for both its method of construction and artistry of design. The bridge includes two rail bridges slightly downstream from the motor-traffic bridges: a railroad bridge of many decades' standing, and a new bridge to accommodate the Phoenix Light Rail System.


  • Navajo Bridge




[caption id="attachment_8584" align="alignright" width="190" caption="Navajo Bridge"]Navajo Bridge[/caption]

The Navajo Bridge is located on Highway 89A. Those traveling across the country on Highway 89A between Bitter Springs and Jacob Lake AZ arrive at two bridges similar in appearance spanning the Colorado River. These two bridges, one historic and one new, represent one of only seven land crossings of the Colorado River for 750 miles. Navajo Bridge is approximately 9 miles from the Cliff Dwellers Lodge. Aside from the Glen Canyon Dam, this is the only roadway crossing in the Grand Canyon for over 600 miles. You may also walk across the historic bridge, which offers perfect photography opportunities.

While we know about a little history and the architectural designs of some of Arizona Bridges, make sure to spare some time to visit the bridges while you can - Arizona bridges does not only connect places, it also connects us to where we truly belong.

 

LVH LogoJane Daley, BA
Jeff Daley, PhD

Luxury Valley Homes - West USA
Scottsdale Real Estate Arizona
Our Luxury Valley Home Team
480-595-6412

Arizona Bridges – Connecting Places

Tuesday, 9 April 2013

Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Act


Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Act - Extended Through 2013




Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Act - Extended Through 2013 Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Act - Extended Through 2013

Good news for those who are contemplating or completing a short sale, the Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Act has been extended through 2013.

If you had mortgage debt forgiven this past year, whether it was through a short sale or perhaps mortgage modification then you may be able to claim special tax relief and exclude the debt forgiven from your income.

That is because the Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007 allows for owners of primary residences to avoid paying taxes on this forgiveness under certain circumstances. Here are 10 facts directly from the IRS in regard Mortgage Debt Forgiveness.

This act was set to expire at the end of 2012. However, as mentioned, the forgiveness act has been extended through December 31, 2013.

1) Normally, debt forgiveness results in taxable income. However, under the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007, you may be able to exclude up to $2 million of debt forgiven on your principal residence.

2) The limit is $1 million for a married person filing a separate return.

3) You may exclude debt reduced through mortgage restructuring, as well as mortgage debt forgiven in a foreclosure.

4) To qualify, the debt must have been used to buy, build or substantially improve your principal residence and be secured by that residence.

5) Refinanced debt proceeds used for the purpose of substantially improving your principal residence also qualify for the exclusion.

6) Proceeds of refinanced debt used for other purposes -- for example, to pay off credit card debt -- do not qualify for the exclusion.

7) If you qualify, claim the special exclusion by filling out Form 982, Reduction of Tax Attributes Due to Discharge of Indebtedness, and attach it to your federal income tax return for the tax year in which the qualified debt was forgiven.

8 ) Debt forgiven on second homes, rental property, business property, credit cards or car loans does not qualify for the tax relief provision. In some cases, however, other tax relief provisions -- such as insolvency -- may be applicable. IRS Form 982 provides more details about these provisions.

9) If your debt is reduced or eliminated you normally will receive a year-end statement, Form 1099-C, Cancellation of Debt, from your lender. By law, this form must show the amount of debt forgiven and the fair market value of any property foreclosed.

10) Examine the Form 1099-C carefully. Notify the lender immediately if any of the information shown is incorrect. You should pay particular attention to the amount of debt forgiven in Box 2 as well as the value listed for your home in Box 7.

For more information about the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007, please visit http://www. IRS.gov and as always consult a tax professional with specific questions you may have.



mortgage debt forgiveness act
For more information, please visit our website.

Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Act


Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Act - Extended Through 2013


 

[caption id="attachment_8547" align="alignright" width="250" caption="Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Act - Extended Through 2013"]Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Act - Extended Through 2013[/caption]

Good news for those who are contemplating or completing a short sale, the Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Act has been extended through 2013.

If you had mortgage debt forgiven this past year, whether it was through a short sale or perhaps mortgage modification then you may be able to claim special tax relief and exclude the debt forgiven from your income.

That is because the Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007 allows for owners of primary residences to avoid paying taxes on this forgiveness under certain circumstances. Here are 10 facts directly from the IRS in regard Mortgage Debt Forgiveness.

This act was set to expire at the end of 2012. However, as mentioned, the forgiveness act has been extended through December 31, 2013.

1) Normally, debt forgiveness results in taxable income. However, under the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007, you may be able to exclude up to $2 million of debt forgiven on your principal residence.

2) The limit is $1 million for a married person filing a separate return.

3) You may exclude debt reduced through mortgage restructuring, as well as mortgage debt forgiven in a foreclosure.

4) To qualify, the debt must have been used to buy, build or substantially improve your principal residence and be secured by that residence.

5) Refinanced debt proceeds used for the purpose of substantially improving your principal residence also qualify for the exclusion.

6) Proceeds of refinanced debt used for other purposes -- for example, to pay off credit card debt -- do not qualify for the exclusion.

7) If you qualify, claim the special exclusion by filling out Form 982, Reduction of Tax Attributes Due to Discharge of Indebtedness, and attach it to your federal income tax return for the tax year in which the qualified debt was forgiven.

8 ) Debt forgiven on second homes, rental property, business property, credit cards or car loans does not qualify for the tax relief provision. In some cases, however, other tax relief provisions -- such as insolvency -- may be applicable. IRS Form 982 provides more details about these provisions.

9) If your debt is reduced or eliminated you normally will receive a year-end statement, Form 1099-C, Cancellation of Debt, from your lender. By law, this form must show the amount of debt forgiven and the fair market value of any property foreclosed.

10) Examine the Form 1099-C carefully. Notify the lender immediately if any of the information shown is incorrect. You should pay particular attention to the amount of debt forgiven in Box 2 as well as the value listed for your home in Box 7.

For more information about the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007, please visit http://www. IRS.gov and as always consult a tax professional with specific questions you may have.

 

Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Act

Monday, 8 April 2013

Comparison Between Mesa Real Estate 85201 and 85212



Are you relocating to Mesa, Arizona and still undecided where to purchase a real estate property? A house that you can call home with absolutely wonderful neighborhood and excellent school for your kids are only a few of the basic qualifications in choosing a home. Fret no more as we are about to make a graphical comparison between Mesa real estate 85201 and 85212.

Mesa Real Estate 85201           Mesa Real Estate 85212


Mesa Real Estate 85212 Mesa Real Estate 85212

Mesa Real Estate 85201 Mesa Real Estate 85201



Mesa real estate 85201 is a densely populated, urban zip code in Mesa, Arizona. The population is racially diverse, younger, and about evenly divided between singles and married couples. The average house value here ($96,500) is lower than in the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale metro area as a whole, so this could be a great place to look for housing bargains.

The median age here is 28.9. There are 25,091 men and 24,923 women. The median age for men is 28.4 while for women the median age is 29.5.

Meanwhile, Mesa real estate 85212 is a rural zip code in Mesa, Arizona. The population is primarily white,younger, and mostly married couples. Housing prices here (average $150,200) are fairly typical for the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale metro area.

The median age here is 29. There are 5,133 men and 5,250 women. The median age for men is 29.1 while for women the median age is 28.9.

Both 85201 and 85212 85201  zip codes are located in the Mountain time zone.

Market Stability Summary


Market Stability Summary Market Stability Summary

School Summary


School Summary School Summary

Price Trends - Sold vs. Listed


[caption id="attachment_4727" align="alignleft" width="570"]Price Trends - Sold vs. Listed Price Trends - Sold vs. Listed[/caption]

Understand the difference between "listing prices" (what sellers are asking for) and "sold prices" (what buyers are willing to pay).

By comparing these price trends, you'll have a good idea of where the market is heading. The median listing and sold property prices are calculated based on the market activity each month.

Some sales are not immediately available from public records. As they become available, the data are updated.

Market Inventory Trends


[caption id="attachment_4728" align="alignleft" width="570"]Market Inventory Trends Market Inventory Trends[/caption]

Review the inventory and health of the market by looking at the number of sold and listed properties.

To understand if the market inventory is growing or shrinking, compare the number of sold properties tonew listings. If inventory is growing, the market could be trending toward a buyer's market. If inventory is shrinking, then it could be a seller's market.

Gauge the health of the market by comparing the number of standard to distressed listings. If the number of distressed listings is greater, the market could be unhealthy and more likely a buyer's market.

  • Sold: Properties sold that month

  • New: Listings that are new on the market

  • Distressed: Listings that are short sales, bank owned, or up for auction.

  • Standard: Non-distressed listings

Property Ownership


Property Owneship Property Owneship

This chart shows home occupancy within an area.

A high percentage of ownership can indicate an area where people like to live and stable property prices. While a high percentage of rentals could indicate an area with shifting demographics, a younger community, or possibly a downtown area.

High vacancy rates can indicate that the market is unhealthy and that it could be tough to sell a home in this area.

Income by Household


Income by Household Income by Household

Review the distribution of household income levels in a community.

Income levels are listed along the left side of the chart, and the number of households are displayed along the bottom.

Crime Risk - Comparison Between Mesa Real Estate 85201 and 85212


Crime Risk - Comparison Between Mesa Real Estate 85201 and 85212 Crime Risk - Comparison Between Mesa Real Estate 85201 and 85212

The Crime Risk Index compares the likelihood of different crimes happening within this community to the national average.

The national average for each type of crime equals a score of 100.

A score of 200 would represent twice the risk as the national average, and a score of 50 would represent half the risk.

Education: Highest Level Attained


Education Highest Level Attained Education Highest Level Attained

For more information on the comparison between Mesa real estate 85201 and 8521, you may click here. You may also contact us via email or call us at 480-595-6412.

Looking for a real estate property in Mesa Arizona? Start your search here.






Comparison Between Mesa Real Estate 85201 and 85212
For more information, please visit our website.