It's Fall Arizona Restaurant Week!

Introducing the much-awaited Fall Arizona Restaurant Week 2023! I'm thrilled to share this exciting culinary celebration with all of you. As a passionate advocate for Arizona's hospitality industry, I am delighted to present this bi-annual gastronomic extravaganza, brought to you by the Arizona Restaurant Association. Mark your calendars for a delightful culinary journey spanning ten days, from Friday, September 8th, to Sunday, September 17th. Fall ARW is back to tantalize your taste buds, and it promises to be better than ever. Prepare yourself for an unparalleled exploration of Arizona's diverse and vibrant culinary scene. From cozy chef-driven establishments to opulent five-star restaurants, an impressive array of dining options representing various cuisines will be on display. Get ready to indulge in unique and exclusive dining experiences as our participating restaurants curate special menus featuring hyper-seasonal and limited-availability ingredients. These talented chefs have crafted dishes that may not be found on their regular menus, offering you a rare opportunity to savor the exquisite talents and boundless creativity of Arizona's culinary experts. During Fall ARW, you can enjoy a delectable three-course prix-fixe menu at remarkable prices, starting at just $33 per person. To elevate your dining experience, some select restaurants will offer optional wine or cocktail pairings for an additional charge. And for those seeking a romantic culinary adventure, there are prix-fixe options for couples as well. Join us for the most mouthwatering time of the year, where food enthusiasts and connoisseurs unite to celebrate Arizona's thriving culinary landscape. Make sure to secure your reservations early, as this unforgettable event promises to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and create cherished memories. I'm especially excited to highlight some of the fantastic participating restaurants in Scottsdale for this edition of Fall ARW: Citizen Public House Cobre Kitchen and Cocktails Farm & Craft Hand Cut Burgers & Chophouse Hearth 61 Mowry & Cotton Prado Rita's Cantina RnR Rusconi's The Canal Club The Herb Box Tommy Bahama Zuzu at Hotel Valley Ho These establishments are ready to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience, and I can't wait to see you there!

MORE

Exploring Scottsdale's Exclusive Golf Communities for Luxury Homebuyers

Scottsdale, Arizona-, where luxury living meets the pursuit of the perfect swing. If you're a discerning homebuyer in search of refined living and a golfer's paradise, look no further. Scottsdale is renowned for its breathtaking desert landscapes, top-tier amenities, and world-class golf courses, making it a prime destination for those seeking upscale properties nestled within exclusive golf communities. In this blog, we'll take you on an exciting tour of Scottsdale's top 10 luxury golf communities, where you can immerse yourself in the ultimate upscale living experience.   Silverleaf at DC Ranch Nestled in the exclusive DC Ranch neighborhood, Silverleaf offers a luxurious retreat for discerning homebuyers seeking an unparalleled lifestyle. This prestigious community stands out for its exquisite custom homes that showcase the finest craftsmanship and architectural design. With stunning views of the McDowell Mountains and sprawling desert landscapes, residents can indulge in the beauty of the surrounding nature. At the heart of Silverleaf lies its private golf course, designed by the renowned Tom Weiskopf. The championship course perfectly blends with the natural terrain, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golf enthusiasts. The Silverleaf Clubhouse serves as the social hub, providing first class top-tier amenities like fine dining, spa services, fitness facilities, and exclusive events. The community fosters a close-knit atmosphere, making it a haven for families and individuals seeking both privacy and social engagement.   Desert Mountain Desert Mountain stands as one of North America's most prestigious golf communities, featuring an unparalleled collection of six Jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses. Each course has its distinct personality, offering diverse challenges and stunning vistas. The community spans over 8,000 acres, providing a range of luxury residences, from grand custom estates to cozy lock-and-leave villas. Beyond golf, Desert Mountain boasts a comprehensive array of world-class amenities. Residents have access to a state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis courts, hiking trails, and a variety of restaurants. The luxurious Sonoran Spa & Fitness Center offers relaxation and wellness services, while the Desert Mountain Trail System allows residents to explore the breathtaking desert landscape.   Estancia Nestled at the base of Pinnacle Peak, Estancia is a private, guard-gated community renowned for its sophisticated ambiance and Tom Fazio-designed golf course. The 18-hole championship course seamlessly blends with the high desert terrain, providing a visually stunning and challenging golf experience. Estancia offers an impressive selection of luxury homes, many of which offer sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and golf course. The Estancia Clubhouse serves as the social heart of the community, where residents can enjoy fine dining, attend social events, and engage in various activities.   Troon North Nestled in the foothills of Pinnacle Peak, Troon North is a world-renowned golf community offering a tranquil desert setting and two exceptional 18-hole courses: The Monument and The Pinnacle. These courses consistently rank among the top courses in Arizona, drawing avid golfers from around the world. In addition to its golf amenities, Troon North provides a range of luxury homes, from custom-built estates to stylish townhouses. Many properties offer unobstructed views of the golf course and picturesque mountains. The Troon North Clubhouse serves as a gathering spot for residents, providing a cozy ambiance and a chance to enjoy fine dining and social events.   Mirabel Golf Club Nestled in the high desert foothills, Mirabel Golf Club is a secluded paradise for luxury homebuyers and golf enthusiasts alike. The Tom Fazio-designed 18-hole championship course provides a challenging and scenic experience amidst the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert. The community offers a variety of luxury homes, featuring architectural excellence and premium finishes. Residents can enjoy upscale amenities such as the Mirabel Clubhouse with dining options, fitness facilities, and tennis courts. The community's intimate size fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among residents.   The Country Club at DC Ranch Adjacent to Silverleaf, The Country Club at DC Ranch is an upscale golf community offering a blend of elegance and relaxation. The community provides a range of luxury homes and townhouses, each meticulously designed to meet the high standards of sophisticated homebuyers. The centerpiece of the community is the DC Ranch Country Club, where residents can enjoy a vibrant social scene, fine dining, and a wide array of recreational activities. The community's proximity to Silverleaf and its stunning golf courses makes it an ideal choice for those seeking luxury living and easy access to world-class golfing.   Whisper Rock Golf Club Whisper Rock Golf Club exudes exclusivity and refinement, offering two distinct 18-hole golf courses designed by golf legends Phil Mickelson and Tom Fazio. This private, guard-gated community appeals to golf enthusiasts seeking a serene oasis away from the hustle and bustle. The Whisper Rock clubhouse provides a warm and inviting atmosphere where residents can gather for exceptional dining experiences and various social events. The community's commitment to preserving the natural desert landscape ensures residents are surrounded by breathtaking views and a peaceful ambiance.   Talus at Troon North Perched on the southern slope of Troon North Golf Club, Talus offers a contemporary take on luxury living. The community's modern architectural designs blend harmoniously with the rugged desert surroundings, creating a captivating and distinctive aesthetic. Talus residents can indulge in the Troon North Golf Club's award-winning courses and revel in breathtaking views of the golf course and mountains. The community's exclusivity and tranquil atmosphere make it a sought-after destination for those seeking both natural beauty and modern luxury.   Ancala Country Club Nestled between the McDowell Mountains and Camelback, Ancala Country Club provides an idyllic retreat for luxury homebuyers seeking an active lifestyle in a pristine setting. The community's centerpiece is the championship golf course, where residents can perfect their swing while admiring the stunning desert vistas. Ancala offers an array of luxury homes, from spacious single-family residences to elegantly designed townhouses. The Ancala Country Club provides upscale amenities, including a fitness center, tennis courts, and an inviting clubhouse that hosts various social events.   Gainey Ranch Set in the heart of Scottsdale, Gainey Ranch offers an alluring blend of luxury living and an active social scene. The Gainey Ranch Golf Club features 27 holes of golfing excellence and serves as the perfect backdrop for this vibrant community. Residents of Gainey Ranch can choose from a variety of luxury properties, ranging from upscale condos to spacious single-family homes. The community boasts numerous amenities, including a fitness center, tennis courts, swimming pools, and access to the Hyatt Regency Gainey Ranch Resort & Spa.   As a Scottsdale realtor with a passion for luxury properties and golfing, I am dedicated to helping you find your dream home in one of these exclusive golf communities. Whether you desire breathtaking mountain views, championship golf courses, or unrivaled amenities, these communities offer the epitome of upscale living in Scottsdale, Arizona.   If you're ready to embark on this exciting journey of finding your luxury home in one of Scottsdale's esteemed golf communities, don't hesitate to reach out to me. Together, we can explore the options and make your dream of owning a slice of Scottsdale's paradise a reality.  Start your luxury home search today, and let's find your perfect haven in Scottsdale!

MORE

Renovate or Relocate? 3 Questions To Help You Decide

Does your current home no longer serve your needs? If so, you may be torn between relocating to a new home or renovating your existing one. This can be a difficult choice, and there’s a lot to consider—including potential costs, long-term financial implications, and quality of life. A major remodel can be a major commitment. From hiring contractors to selecting materials to managing a budget, it can take a tremendous amount of time and energy—not to mention the ordeal of living through construction or relocating to a temporary residence.On the other hand, moving is notoriously taxing. In fact, in one survey, 40% of respondents viewed buying a new home as ”the most stressful event in modern life.”1So which is the better option for you? Let’s take a closer look at some of the factors you should consider before you decide.  What Are Your Motivations for Making a Change? It’s possible that some of the limitations of your current home can be addressed with a renovation, but others may require a move. Renovate Certain issues, like dated kitchens and bathrooms, are fairly easy to remedy with a remodel—and the results can be dramatic. In many cases, a relatively minor renovation can significantly increase your enjoyment of your home. Other shortcomings can be more challenging to fix but are worth exploring so that you know your options. For example, if your home feels cramped or it lacks certain rooms, you might be able to make changes like installing an extra bathroom, adding a dedicated office, or finishing an attic or basement. You may even be able to build an accessory dwelling unit or extension to accommodate a multi-generational family. In fact, many Americans have remodeled their homes to meet changing needs since the start of the pandemic. According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, 90% of their members reported increased demand for renovations starting in 2020, and 60% reported that the scale of remodeling projects has grown.2 However, the feasibility and cost of these larger changes will depend on factors ranging from zoning and permitting to your home’s current layout. Speaking with an architect or a contractor can help you make an informed decision. Let us refer you to one of our trusted partners to ensure you receive the best possible service. Relocate Of course, sometimes, even rebuilding your home from the ground up wouldn’t solve the problem. For example, moving may be the only solution if you’ve switched jobs and now face a lengthy commute or if you need to live closer to an aging family member. Conversely, if the shift to remote work has opened up your location options, you may wish to seize the opportunity to relocate to a new locale. A 2022 study found that nearly five million Americans had already moved since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased flexibility from remote work, and nearly 19 million more were planning to move in the near future for the same reasons.3  Moving may also be the best option, even when you’re happy with your geographic location. A local move may make sense if you’re looking for a larger backyard or significantly more space. Similarly, some frustrations—like living on a busy street or a long way from a grocery store—can’t be addressed with a renovation. We are well-versed in this area and can help you determine whether another neighborhood might suit you and your family better.   Which Option Makes the Most Financial Sense? Renovating and relocating both come with costs, and it’s wise to explore the financial implications of each choice before you move forward. Renovate The costs of a renovation can vary widely, so it’s vital to get several estimates from contractors upfront to understand what it might take to achieve your dream home. Be sure to consider all of the potential expenditures, from materials and permits to updates to your electrical and plumbing systems. It’s also prudent to add 10-20% to your total budget to account for unexpected issues.4  If you plan to DIY all or part of your renovation, don’t forget to factor in the value of your time. Renovations can also come with hidden expenses. These might include: Additional home insurance Short-term rental or hotel if you need to move out during the renovation Storage unit for possessions that need to be out of the way Dining out, laundry service, and other essentials if you can’t access appliances at home Remodeling choices can also impact the long-term value of your home. Some projects may increase your home’s value enough to outweigh your investment, while others could actually hurt your home’s resale potential. For example, although you may enjoy the additional living space, garage conversions aren’t typically popular with buyers.5 Refinishing hardwood floors, on the other hand, brings an average return of 147% at resale.2  The specific impact of a renovation will depend on a number of factors, including the quality of work, choice of materials, and buyer preferences in your area. We can help you assess how a planned project is likely to affect the value of your home. Relocate The cost of a new home, of course, will vary significantly depending on the features you’re seeking. However, you may find that it’s cheaper to move to a home that has everything you want than it is to make major changes to your existing one. For example, adding a downstairs bedroom suite or opening up a closed floor plan could cost you more than it would to buy a home that already has those features. On the other hand, simpler changes and updates probably won’t outweigh the expense of a relocation. If you’re considering a move, speak with a real estate agent early in the process. We can assess your current home’s value and estimate the price of a new home that meets your needs. This will help you set an appropriate budget and expectations. It’s important to remember that the cost of buying a new home doesn't end with the purchase price. You’ll also need to account for additional expenditures, including closing and moving costs and the fees involved with selling your current home. And don’t forget to compare current mortgage rates to your existing one to understand how a different rate could impact your monthly payment. However, keep in mind that the interest rate on a mortgage is typically lower than the rate on other loan types—so you could pay less interest on a new home purchase than you would on remodel.6 We’re happy to refer you to a lending professional who can help you explore your financing options.   Which Option Will Be the Least Disruptive to Your Life? A final—but critical—consideration is the time and hassle involved with each option since both renovating and relocating involve a significant amount of each. Renovate Don’t underestimate the time and effort involved in a large-scale renovation, even if you choose to hire a general contractor. You will still need to consider and make a number of decisions. For example, even a fairly basic kitchen remodel can involve a seemingly-endless selection of cabinets, tile, countertops, paint colors, fixtures, hardware, and appliances. And don’t assume that you will get out of packing and unpacking if you stay in your current home. Most renovations—from kitchens to bathrooms to flooring replacement—require you to remove your belongings during the construction process. The time frame for a remodel is another consideration. High demand for contractors and ongoing material shortages can mean a long wait to get started. And once the project is in progress, you can expect that it will take a couple of weeks to several months to complete.7 Contemplate whether you will be able to live in your home while it’s being renovated and how that would impact your routine. For example, being without a functional kitchen for months can be frustrating, inconvenient, and expensive (since you’ll need to purchase prepared food). Remember that delays are inevitable with construction, and consider what additional challenges they could present. Relocate Of course, finding a new home and selling your current one also takes a significant amount of time and energy. According to the National Association of Realtors’ 2022 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, the average buyer searched for 10 weeks and toured a median of five homes.8 However, in many cases, the timeline can still be shorter than a major renovation. Once you find a home that works for you, it typically takes between 30 and 60 days to close if you’re taking on a mortgage—and the process is even faster if you’re paying with cash.9  Plus, you can look for your dream home without the inconvenience of living in a construction zone. However, a move comes with its own stress and disruptions. If you’re selling your current home, you’ll need to prep it for the market and keep it ready and available for showings. Once you’ve found a place, the packing and moving process takes time and work, as does settling into a new home—especially if it’s in a different neighborhood. Fortunately, we are here to help make the moving process as easy as possible, if you choose to pursue that route. We can help you find a property that meets all your needs, sell your current one for top dollar, and refer you to some excellent moving companies that can help pack and transport your belongings.   WHATEVER YOU DECIDE, WE CAN HELP The decision to renovate or relocate can be overwhelming—but this choice also presents a powerful opportunity to improve your quality of life. There’s a lot to consider, from how renovations could impact your home’s resale value down the road to your neighborhood’s current market dynamics. We’re happy to help you think through your options. Get in touch for a free consultation! The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only.  It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs.

MORE