NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2023
EVENT CALENDAR November | December 2023 26th Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals Westworld of Scottsdale | November 17-19 The annual automotive extravaganza that brings together car enthusiasts and collectors from across the country. This event showcases a dazzling array of classic cars, hot rods, and custom vehicles, making it a haven for automotive aficionados. With its vibrant atmosphere and meticulously restored automobiles on display, the Southwest Nationals offers a unique opportunity to marvel at the craftsmanship and innovation that defines American automotive culture.
Thanksgiving Day Parade: 2023 "The West Kept Secret" Fountain Hills | November 23 The Thanksgiving Day Parade is a beloved local tradition, kicking off at 9:30 am and lasting about an hour. It features a diverse lineup of local businesses, Veteran groups, classic cars, service organizations, and more, showcasing floats, bands, animals, dance routines, and motorcycle displays. It's the perfect way to celebrate Thanksgiving morning!
Anthem Turkey Trot Anthem| November 23 The Anthem Turkey Trot is a cherished Thanksgiving Day event in Anthem, bringing the community together for a morning of fitness and fun. Participants of all ages and fitness levels gather to run or walk through scenic routes, promoting wellness and unity while kicking off the holiday season on a positive note.
Elf - The Musical Phoenix | November 26 "Elf - The Musical" is a heartwarming stage adaptation of the beloved holiday film, following Buddy, a human raised by North Pole elves, on his quest for identity in New York City. Filled with catchy songs and festive cheer, it's a joyous production that resonates with all ages, celebrating family and togetherness, becoming a holiday tradition.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra - The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve Phoenix | December 3 A mesmerizing holiday production that blends rock and classical music with a heartwarming Christmas story. It follows a young runaway's magical journey on Christmas Eve, guided by ghosts, and rediscovering the true meaning of the season through captivating musical performances. This show has become a cherished holiday tradition, enchanting audiences with its music and storytelling, celebrating the spirit of Christmas.
Cirque du Soleil: Twas The Night Before Phoenix | December 22 A magical holiday production that brings the classic Christmas poem to life through breathtaking acrobatics, theater, and visual artistry. With dazzling performances and enchanting storytelling, it's the perfect festive escape into a world of holiday wonder.
Paws & Carpets A
s pet owners, we cherish the love and companionship our furry friends bring into our lives. However, our four-legged pals can also leave behind messes on our carpets. From muddy paws to accidents, maintaining clean carpets can be a challenging task. Here are some of the best ways for pet owners to clean their carpets effectively, keeping their homes fresh, hygienic, and free from petrelated stains and odors. When dealing with pet-related stains and spills, acting promptly is crucial. As soon as you notice a mess, blot the affected area with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, as it can push the stain deeper into the carpet fibers and spread it further. Invest in high-quality pet-specific carpet cleaning products designed to tackle tough pet stains and odors effectively. These products contain enzymes that break down organic matter eliminating both the stain and the odor. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and test the product on a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet before applying it to larger stains. For smaller pet stains, consider using a spot-cleaning carpet cleaner. These compact and portable machines are ideal for quick clean-ups and can save you from having to deep clean your entire carpet for minor incidents. They work by spraying cleaning solution onto the stain and then extracting the dirty liquid. For more extensive carpet cleaning, investing in a high-quality carpet cleaner designed for pet owners is highly beneficial. Look for models with powerful suction and rotating brushes that can effectively remove embedded dirt, pet hair, and tough stains. Many carpet cleaners come with specific attachments for dealing with pet messes, providing more thorough cleaning. Regular vacuuming is essential for pet owners to keep their carpets clean. Vacuum at least once or twice a week, paying extra attention to areas where your pet spends the most time. Consider using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to trap allergens and pet dander effectively. Even with regular maintenance, carpets can accumulate dirt and grime over time. Scheduling professional deep cleaning once or twice a year is an excellent way to revitalize your carpets and remove deeply embedded pet odors and stains. Professional cleaners use specialized equipment and cleaning solutions to ensure a thorough and effective cleaning process. Maintaining clean carpets as a pet owner requires a proactive approach and the right cleaning tools. Acting fast on stains and using pet-specific cleaning products are essential steps in keeping your carpets fresh and odor-free. Consider spot-cleaning machines for quick clean-ups and invest in a high-quality carpet cleaner for more extensive cleaning sessions. Regular vacuuming and professional deep cleaning round out an effective carpet cleaning routine, ensuring that your home remains a clean and inviting space for both you and your beloved pets.
REAL ESTATE
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Embrace the Season
W
ith the holiday season just around the corner, it's the ideal time to transform your home into a festive haven. Whether you're marking a specific holiday, or simply reveling in the joy of the season, decking your halls and creating a cozy winter wonderland within your abode is a timehonored tradition.
To embark on this creative journey, begin by selecting a theme or color palette that resonates with your heart. Will your home be adorned in classic red and green, embracing the cozy appeal of neutral tones, or perhaps shimmering in a winter wonderland adorned with silver and blue accents? A unified theme will impart a harmonious and visually pleasing atmosphere to your living spaces. There's an undeniable magic in the soft twinkle of holiday lights. Allow this magic to permeate your home by adorning your Christmas tree, banisters, and windows with artfully arranged strands of LED lights. The beauty of LED lights is their versatility – they can be customized to match your chosen theme, lending a whimsical aura to your surroundings. To extend the holiday spirit seamlessly throughout your home, consider the versatile use of wreaths and garlands. These festive elements can be artfully displayed throughout your home, adorned with pinecones, ribbons, and delicate ornaments. Their presence imparts both elegance and continuity to your decor. Elevate your holiday gatherings by crafting a captivating tablescape in your dining room or kitchen. A festive tablecloth, coordinating plates, and an exquisite centerpiece graced with candles, greenery, and ornaments form the foundation for a memorable celebration. One of the most cherished aspects of holiday decorating is the opportunity to infuse your decor with a personal touch. Engage in heartwarming doit-yourself projects like crafting intricate paper snowflakes, constructing a delightful gingerbread house, or designing personalized ornaments. These homemade treasures not only add character but also create cherished memories to be savored year after year. Enhance the holiday atmosphere with the subtle and welcoming scent of candles. Opt for scented candles bearing aromas like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla, and strategically place them throughout your home. Their fragrant presence sets the stage for a cozy and inviting environment, evoking the true spirit of the season. Infuse your space with a sense of coziness by exchanging your regular throw pillows and blankets for holiday-themed counterparts. Whether it's a plaid pattern, faux fur textures, or anything that encapsulates the essence of winter, these small additions instantly imbue your home with a feeling of warmth and festivity. Extend the warmth and joy of the holidays to the exterior of your home. Illuminate your porch with festive lights, lay out a welcoming doormat, and adorn your front door with a wreath. These outdoor decorations create a cheerful and inviting ambiance for guests as they approach your home.
IN GOOD TASTE
Holiday decorating is an opportunity to share joy, create lasting memories, and embrace the spirit of the season. The key is to let your creativity shine. Thoughtfully plan your theme, engage in DIY projects, and incorporate personal touches, allowing your home to radiate holiday magic. May your living spaces become warm and inviting, serving as the backdrop for cherished gatherings with loved ones.
Baked Cola-Brined Fresh Ham INGREDIENTS
1/3 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup
olive oil
1 tbsp
granulated chicken flavor bouillon
2 tbsp
finely chopped garlic
6-8 lbs
bone-in, shank or butt portion fresh ham, skin on
11/2 cups salt
6 liters
cola or other dark-colored soda
DIRECTIONS Combine cola and salt in a medium-size cooler or other 10-quart bucket or stockpot; stir to dissolve the salt. Using a sharp knife, score entire surface of ham in a crosshatch or diamond pattern, cutting down just through the skin. Place ham in the brine, submerging completely. Cover and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours. Position oven rack in the lowest position and preheat oven to 500° F. Combine parsley, oil, garlic and bouillon in small bowl; stir well. Remove ham from brine. Rinse it well under cold water then pat dry with paper towels. Place the ham wide-side-down in a large roasting pan with a flat rack. Rub outside of ham all over with the bouillon mixture, pressing it gently into scored slices between the skin. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350° F and continue to bake until the roast reaches 150° F on an instant-read thermometer (this should take 2 to 2 1/2 hours, about 20 to 25 minutes per pound of ham). After the first hour, it’s a good idea to loosely wrap foil around the bone to keep it from burning. Transfer the roast to a carving board and tent with foil; allow the roast to sit at room temperature until the internal roast temperature reaches 160° F (about 20 to 30 minutes). The roast is now ready to carve.
GoodNes
KELLY McLAIN
realtor® | 602.625.4653 | mclainjk@aol.com
“
THE #1 AGENT FOR THE
ORANGE TREE & EQUESTRIAN
Orange Tree Active & Pending Listings
MANOR AREA WITH OVER
”
100 TRANSACTIONS! kellymclain.com
Address
candis creel
Account Manager
602.697.0232 CCreel@ATSAAZ.com AmericanTitleServiceAgency.com follow me @candiscreel
“My team and I have had the awesome pleasure of working alongside Kelly McLain for nearly 10 years now. He is truly one of the most loyal, dedicated and knowledgeable Realtors with whom we’ve ever worked! His clients are very privileged to have him represent them, especially in a challenging market. We feel honored to handle the escrow transactions and would highly recommend him to anyone looking to buy or sell a home!”
BED
BATH
SQFT List Price
Neighborhood
ACTIVE 11419 N 56TH ST
2
2
1,800
$66 9,000
5522 E LARKSPUR DR
4
2
2,359
$1,025,000
CENTURY PLACE RANCHO SAGUARO
5838 E LARKSPUR DR
4
3
2,492
$1,200,000
AVANT
6302 E Aster DR
5
4
3,805
$1,200,000
SHEA NORTH ESTATES
5530 E SHEA BLVD
4
3
3,617
$1,209,000
AVANT 1
12202 N 58TH WAY
5
3
2,925
$1,250,000
AVANT 1
11455 N 54TH ST
4
3.5
3,332
$1,449,000
ORANGETREE ESTATES
6002 E CORRINE DR
5
5
3,332
$1,450,000
AVANT 1
11002 N 54TH ST
4
3
3,490
$1,550,000
DESERT HOMES
5331 E POINSETTIA DR
4
2.5
2,746
$1,600,000
WOODLEAF
5401 E CHARTER OAK RD
5
3.5
2,704
$1,650,000
RANCHO SAGUARO
12227 N 62nd PL
5
4
3,324
$1,680,000
SHEA NORTH ESTATES
10235 N 55TH PL
5
3.5
4,169
$1,700,000
PROMONTORY LOT
5740 E SHEA BLVD
6
5
4,363
$1,750,000
CENTURY CLUB ESTATES
5202 E GOLD DUST AVE
4
4.5
3,906
$2,835,000
PALO OLIVO ESTATES 3
6024 E SUNNYSIDE DR
6
8
7,578
$4,399,000
PARADISE MANOR ESTATES
11608 N Blackheath RD
5
7.5
6,600
$5,500,000
CENTURY CLUB ESTATES
2
2
1,076
$396,000
BELLA TERRA CONDOS
UCB 5335 E SHEA BLVD 2096
Our area still remains strong, I just SOLD and closed another home 5719 E SWEETWATER AVE 4 2.5 2,494 $849,000 CENTURY NORTH in our newsletter area that closed for 26% above the average square 12243 N 58TH ST 4 2 2,125 $1,100,000 CENTURY NORTH foot sales price. Some of that was marketing, and pent up demand to 6032 E DESERT COVE AVE 5 5.5 6,424 $4,400,000 SUNBURST FARMS EAST see the home, but it suggests the Orange Tree area remains immune COMING SOON from from the demand factor. Demand to see homes is falling rapidly throughout the valley, it’s just a matter of time till we see 10228 N 57th S 7 6.5 6,331 $5,950,000 COUNTRY CLUB ACRES further slowing in the Orange Tree area, for now it’s still a powerful All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Properties on this list have been listed/sold by various members of the MLS. area with high demand. Mortgage rates have hit their highest levels in 20 years and the impact on demand can be seen in the numbers. Listings under contract fell another 8.6% from the dismal level of last month. Closed sales were also disappointing dropping another 11% from last month.
New listings remain scarce, but the flow has increased over the last 2 months. Demand is so poor that the active listing count is starting to build, up 12% over the last month. However it remains well below last year at this time. Price readings have something for everyone, with the average price per square foot for closed listings up sharply and now over 3% higher than this time last year. However the median sales price is 1.6% below last year and slightly lower than last month. This strange and unusual behavior is caused by pricing at the high end remaining stronger than it is at the low end. The balance between supply and demand still favors sellers in the majority of markets, but negotiating power is swinging towards buyers with every day that passes. Supply rising and demand falling means this trend is gathering strength. If interest rates remain in the high sevens or increase further, then we can expect market balance to hit within 2 months or so. However we usually see a significant weakening of supply from the middle of November to the end of the year and this could temper the downward direction.
Demand remains much better in the new home market, though even here buyers will find it increasingly hard to qualify for loans as interest rates have jumped over 8% now.
A year ago, the market was looking very weak and few people imagined that price per square foot could possible go up 3% in the following 12 months. This reinforces how unpredictable the market can be when looking more than a couple of months out. The best that can be done with math is a welldefined interpretation of the trend during the next 8 weeks or so. Right now these 8 weeks are not looking rosy. Just remember we felt the same way in October 2022. Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Holiday season to all of my readers.
Please call me if you’re thinking of selling or buying. If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.
Kelly McLain
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