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Large Peel and Stick Paint Color Samples Sent to Your Home
If you’re thinking about making some updates to your home, you probably know that I can be a resource for local home service providers. If your project involves a new paint color inside or on the exterior of your home, though, I’ve got another great resource that can make selecting just the the right color easy with large peel and stick paint color samples sent to your home.
How does this work?
My partner, Sherwin Williams, provides me great tools to help you select just the right paint color. First, I’ll lend you one of my fan decks with all of their colors (or you can look at them online here). They’re small but this can help you narrow your list of options. Once you have that, just send me the list of colors you’re considering and how many you would like of each color. I’ll go to their pro site online and order large peel and stick samples (up to 8-1/2”x11”). Order multiple samples of each color if you want to look at a bigger area or post them on different walls to walk by them in different lighting. I did this myself last time I painted.
Is there a cost for this?
No, this is a FREE service with the large peel and stick paint color samples mailed to your home.
Sherwin Williams is just one of the many partners I have in my toolbox. Need a referral to a painter or other home service provider? Please to hestitate to reach out. I’m here to help–not just when you’re ready to sell, but anytime you need reliable home service providers, market updates and real estate advice (even if you’re just curious), and guidance if you’re housing needs change.
Propositions Supporting Growth Across Metropolitan Phoenix
As a real estate agent, I do not talk about politics with my clients. I appreciate differing opinions and everyone’s right to vote as they see fit. That said, I do believe in sharing information about propositions supporting growth across metropolitan Phoenix. I appreciate you reading my thoughts below on three key propositions and learning more through the links provided.
Maricopa County Transit Tax
Maricopa County residents, please vote YES on PROPOSITION 479 to continue an existing half-cent sales tax that funds transportation. A yes vote extends the tax until 2045 and if it does not pass, the tax ends in 2025.
Again, this is NOT a new tax and transportation funding is critically important our quality of life, especially with ongoing population and job growth across the valley. Learn more about this important proposition here.
Scottsdale Park & Preserve Maintenance
I am asking Scottsdale residents to vote YES on PROPOSITION 490 to improve the city ‘s aging parks and maintain our treasured McDowell Sonoran Preserve. In addition to park and preserve maintenance, the funds add police ranger patrol to parks and preserve trailheads and add fire department resources, including a second rescue team and increased fire prevention and fire fighting funds. This is done with a new sales tax that REPLACES an expiring sales tax at a LOWER rate. Learn more here.
Scottsdale Spending Limit
Lastly, I encourage Scottsdale residents to consider voting YES on PROPOSITION 491 to increase Scottsdale’s state-imposed spending limitation. All Arizona cities have limitations that cap the maximum amount it can spend each year to provide services and programs. Most Arizona cities (if fact, 82 out of 91) have passed something similar already.
Please note that this change is NOT an increase in taxes. It simply allows the city to operate within a spending limitation that more closely matches existing revenue sources to meet current and planned services and programs. Costs continue to increase so if we have the revenue, why not allow for spending within that amount to support the city’s needs?
Without this adjustment, the city will have to make difficult decisions about which services and programs to continue funding. Learn more here.
Regardless of whether you vote YES on these three propositions supporting growth across metropolitan Phoenix, I do hope you exercise your right to vote on election day!
Industrywide Real Estate Changes
The National Association of Realtors settled a nationwide class action lawsuit with residential sellers. As a result, industrywide real estate changes are being implemented this month. The deadline for implementation is Aug. 17, 2024 but the new rules actually went into effect Aug. 1 in Arizona. The impact to buyers and sellers is summarized below.
HOMEBUYERS
- You’ll now sign a written agreement with your agent prior to touring homes.
- The buyer-broker employment agreement includes a specific amount or rate of compensation your agent receives when you purchase and close on your home. This is negotiable.
- The seller may offer to pay all or part of the compensation to your agent. This is still allowed, but no longer appears in the MLS.
- Regardless of whether the seller offers up front to cover all, part, or none of your agent’s commission, your offer to purchase the home can be made contingent on the seller doing so.
- Open houses continue and no agreement needs to be signed to tour the home.
- For complete details, click here.
HOME SELLERS
- You still have the option to offer compensation to your buyer’s broker. In fact, I encourage this as part of the overall property marketing plan making your listing more attractive to potential buyers.
- If you choose to offer compensation to the buyer’s broker, there are changes to how this occurs. This offer no longer appears in the MLS but with your permission, I can promote it on other platforms such as social media, flyers, a sign at the property, and other websites.
- Regardless of your compensation offer, the buyer may ask for you to pay a specific amount as a term within their offer. In other words, their offer may be made contingent on you doing this. As with any contract term, it is negotiable and of course what’s important is the NET amount you’ll receive.
- For complete details, click here.
If you have questions about these industrywide real estate changes, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help guide you throughout the process to a successful closing!
Frozen Cocktails Across the Valley
As the valley heats up, how do you stay cool? I love a dip in the pool and a nice frozen cocktail while out for dinner. Here are a few of my favorites found at restaurants across the valley.
Peach Bellini’s at Oregano’s
Officially called the original Gibbilini Bellini, Oregano’s (locations across the valley) used to limit you to two bellini’s per visit because they pack a punch with rum, champagne, peach schnapps, and chianti. Like many other products, they got smaller over time so I don’t think they do that anymore. I prefer to order mine without the chianti but try it “as is” first.
Frozé at Sol Mexican Cocina
Frozé can be found on the brunch menu at Sol Mexican Cochina located at the Scottsdale Quarter but I’ve never been there for brunch and have enjoyed it a number of times for dinner or happy hour. They also have a couple of frozen margaritas, including one with mango purée in a chile-salted glass. With that heat, I’m not sure if it cools you down or heats you up, though!
Frozen Mai Tai at Tommy Bahama’s
While shopping at Kierland Commons or as a destination, consider stopping at Tommy Bahama’s for a frozen mai tai. It’s served with a beautiful bright orchid garnish. They also make a mean piña colada! Whichever you choose, I would suggest an Uber if you plan to have more than one.
Frozen Black Cherry Sangria at Jalapeño Inferno
There are several frozen cocktails at Jalepeno Inferno but I’ve only had the frozen black cherry sangria. Unfortunately, they recently closed their DC Ranch location but their other Scottsdale location and Peoria location are still open.
Arizona Frozé
I have not been to Arizona Frozé in Old Town Scottsdale yet but I plan to visit soon! They’re known for their frozen wine, offering five alcohol flavors and one non-alcohol flavor on tap at any given time. They also sell wine bottles, pouches and a variety 6-pack of popsicles to go.
If you also enjoy frozen cocktails across the valley and have others you’d recommend, please share by commenting below!
Metro Phoenix Housing Market Update
The metro Phoenix housing market update is interesting this month because we see a further movement away from seasonality. As a whole, the residential housing market is balanced but there are differences across the valley. In fact, the majority of the market is in a soft seller’s market.
- Seller’s markets – Chandler, Sun Lakes, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Tolleson, Tempe, Avondale, Gilbert, Anthem, Mesa, Glendale, El Mirage, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Litchfield Park, Peoria
- Balanced markets – Goodyear, Cave Creek, Surprise
- Buyer’s markets – Sun City West, Sun City, Arizona City, Queen Creek, Maricopa, Buckeye, Casa Grande
INVENTORY IS RISING
Inventory of homes for sale is still 26% below normal for this time of year. It usually peaks in February or March, but this year it’s still increasing. We are, however, starting to see it soften. The market is performing similar to 2015 with sellers having to compete on their home’s condition, price, and seller concessions. This has been quite a wake-up call for unrealistic sellers, resulting in increased price enhancements (reductions) and listing cancellations. Seller concessions are higher in areas close to new construction and among lower priced homes where buyers need concessions to buy down their interest rate.
SUMMER MAY BE THE TIME TO BUY
Buyer demand is 22% below normal for this time of year. Mortgage rates have not declined as expected earlier this year, but summer may still be an excellent time to buy because sellers with homes on the market now are generally motivated. You can always refinance when interest rates fall. In the meantime, we can negotiate seller concessions for you to buy down your interest rate. Also, some lenders are offering no-cost refinancing with them up to three years after your closing date.
There’s a saying in real estate, “marry the house, date the rate.” Interest rates are temporary since you can refinance, but your purchase price doesn’t change. Home prices are expected to continue to rise in the Phoenix market. When you find the right home for your family that you can afford, buy it!
QUESTIONS OR MORE INFO?
As mentioned at the start of this post, the majority of the market slightly favors sellers, part slightly favors buyers and part is balanced. If you have questions about this metro Phoenix housing market update or would like more information on a specific part of the valley, reach out to me at 312-608-9041 or paula.rosentreter@azmoves.com
Source: The Cromford® Report
Phoenix Housing Market Update
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Source: The Cromford® Report
Local Companies with Delicious Products
I enjoy supporting local businesses, especially local companies with delicious products! Whether for your own enjoyment or to use as gifts, I hope you find something new to try.
ARIZONA FARMS CHEESE
Made in Tempe, you can buy Arizona Farms Cheese products at local Costco stores, along with several farmer’s markets including the Uptown Farmer’s Market and Scottsdale Old Town Farmer’s Market. A few items are also available on their website for pick-up at their Tempe location.
https://www.arizonacheese.com/
AUDREY’S CHIA COOKIES
Audrey’s Chia Cookies are a better-for-you treat made with natural ingredients and packed with chia seeds. Find them at AJ’s, Fry’s, or you can purchase them online. Lemon and Almond are their top selling flavors, but they also have chocolate chip and for a little while longer…crispy brownie. They’re made in Chandler, Arizona.
#audreyschiacookies #chiacookies #audreyschia #chandleraz #madeinchandler #azhomespaula
CERRETA CANDY COMPANY
This family candy business is located in Glendale and was started over fifty years ago by Jim Cerreta, Sr. Today, four generations run the business. They make a variety of chocolate, other candy and nuts that can be purchased at their Glendale location or online. They also offer 30-minute tours weekdays.
FAIRYTALE BROWNIES
The owners of Fairytale Brownies met in kindergarten and opened their business in 1992 with a family recipe. Their bakery is located in Phoenix (open M-F 9-3) and while they no longer offer factory tours, there are large viewing windows where you can see the bakers hard at work. Most of their business is online and shipped, which makes it a fun gift, but you can also find them at select AJ’s and the Tempe Farmer’s Market.
HAYDEN FLOUR MILLS
This family-owned business is located on Sossaman Farms in Queen Creek, milled on the same farm where the grains are grown. I guess flour itself isn’t delicous but it does help us make tasty treats. Anyway, they have a store in Gilbert or you can buy their products online. As an aside, the historic Hayden Flour Mill in Tempe is a historic site owned by the City of Tempe and used as an event space.
HONEY HIVE FARM
Based in Peoria, this family owned hive-to-table honey comes in several flavors, including orange blossom, local cactus, and mesquite. Shop online with free local shipping. They also offer beekeeping classes.
KETTLE HEROES POPCORN
Started in 2013 by two brothers, this company is based in Tempe. The popcorn is delicious with flavors inspired by the southwest, including Prickly Pear and Hatch Green Chile Cheddar. A portion of the proceeds are donated to the Pat Tillman Foundation and other local organizations. Find their products in Fry’s, AJ’s and other local stores, on their website, or visit them in Tempe for a fresh batch!
NOBLE BREAD
This artisan bakery has amazing bread and it’s no wonder because it takes them 36 hours to make a loaf of bread! Find it at AJ’s stores, local farmer’s markets and their wood-fired deli in Phoenix, Noble Eatery.
QUEEN CREEK OLIVE MILL
Based in Queen Creek, they have the most amazing olive oil and related products you can buy there, at their Kierland Commons stores in Scottsdale, or online. Visit their Olive Mill Estate in Queen Creek and and take their Olive Oil 101 tour. See their website for details and other events.
https://www.queencreekolivemill.com/
ZAK’S CHOCOLATE
This Scottsdale chocolatier has an award-winning small-batch craft chocolate store. Their truffles are a true work of art and make a beautiful gift. Find a list of their current flavors and pre-order online for pick-up at their Scottsdale location.
Try one of the above and let me know your thoughts. Please also share other local companies with delicious products you recommend!
Phoenix Residential Housing Market Update
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Source: The Cromford® Report
Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center
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Phoenix Residential Housing Market Update
The Phoenix residential housing market slowed in the second half of last year, but things are looking up for 2024! Metropolitan Phoenix is just barely a seller’s market. That means there are differences across the valley.
- Seller’s markets – Tolleson, Apache Junction, Fountain Hills, Chandler, Gilbert, Laveen, El Mirage, Anthem, Glendale, Sun Lakes, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Avondale
- Balanced markets – Tempe, Litchfield Park, Sun City West, Peoria, Goodyear, Surprise, Paradise Valley, Cave Creek
- Buyer’s markets – Gold Canyon, Casa Grande, Queen Creek, Sun City, Buckeye, Maricopa
THINKING ABOUT SELLING?
Low Inventory, peak visitors and the Spring market are on your side.
Inventory of homes for sale is 38% below normal for this time of year but new listings are on the rise as we head into the Spring selling season and peak of tourism. Homeowners with extremely low interest rates on their current mortgage are generally staying put, but those with life changes affecting their housing situation are selling and capitalizing on tremendous equity that grew substantially in recent years.
THINKING ABOUT BUYING?
Don’t wait, now is a great time to buy.
Mortgage rates recently adjusted to more reasonable levels and they are expected to decline further this year. Rather than wait for that to happen when more buyers will be competing for homes (pushing prices higher), we can negotiate seller concessions now to buydown your rate until it makes sense to refinance. Also, a number of lenders are offering no cost refinancing up to three years after your closing date.
Buyers often ask if they should hold off buying a home because they’re hoping prices will decline. While I don’t have a crystal ball, experts say that’s NOT likely. A couple things to keep in mind:
- We’re still an inbound migration market with low inventory of homes to sell. Neither of those factors are expected to change anytime soon.
- Whether you believe we’re in a recession now or headed for one, home values have declined in just one of eight recessions in the last fifty years.
QUESTIONS OR MORE INFO?
As mentioned at the start of this blog, the Phoenix residential housing market definitely has differences across the valley. If you have questions or would like more information on a specific part of the valley, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at 312-608-9041 or paula.rosentreter@azmoves.com
Source: The Cromford® Report
