A: Thanks for bringing up the Buyer side of the equation. We have been focusing heavily on the Sellers in recent months and yet whether selling or buying, there is intense interest in how the “loan side of the transaction” is faring these days. I have opportunities on a daily basis to talk with lenders and appraisers, allowing me to keep my finger on the pulse on the market. To maximize the chances of success, Buyers should have an application completed and submitted to underwriting before they begin looking for a home. This is sound advice in any market however, it is more important with current strict lender guidelines. Having 20-30% down makes it much easier to secure the best possible rates and programs. Credit scores, more than ever, have a huge influence and can impact the offered interest rate as much as 3/4 % for seemingly slight changes in credit scores. Appraisals continue to be closely scrutinized by underwriters. Many lenders will only consider comparable sales in the past 45-60 days. Seller Agents who look back 18 months in a narrow search within a subdivision are not giving Sellers the correct information of what is happening in the market TODAY! Likewise, Buyer Agents who bring in low offers with low earnest money and without proper consideration of what has sold in recent weeks don’t serve their clients well, either. Strong earnest money, pre-qualifying documentation and serious initial offers are going to get the Sellers’ attention and perhaps ultimately translate to a better price for the Buyer. There are some great buys out there right now as well as some grossly over-priced listings. Having a highlyskilled Buyer Agent to sort through the inventory and help the Buyer find those good buys is a huge asset to the Buyer. Remember, even in a market such as we are experiencing right now, once a property is properly priced it should sell very close to, if not at, full list price.
Henderson consistently ranks among the top ten individual RE/MAX agents in Arizona and is a recipient of the Business Journal Real Estate Leadership Award for 2005. Her charitable works include Habitat for Humanity, Children’s Miracle Network and the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
THE GAYLE HENDERSON GROUP ABR, CRS, GRI, e-Pro, CLHMS RE/MAX Excalibur 8510 E. Shea Blvd. #100 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 602.850.4335 gayle@AZMovingPlan.com
Visit www.AZMovingPlan.com for latest market news, a free “What’s My Home Worth” report, and free important e-reports for Buyers and Sellers. If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.
Featured Listings
Arizona Homeowner February / 2008
Contemporary masterpiece in Pinnacle Peak Vistas is a perfect backdrop for any furnishing style. Wall of windows opens from great room to resort setting of backyard; a true oasis nestled between the house and guest casita. Ultimate in privacy with fabulous viewsa must see! An entertainer’s dream separated by upstairs and downstairs bedroom suites, media center, full bar and open classic cook’s kitchen. Drama created with special lighting, art walls, open staircase, and combination of dry-stack stone and highly-polished marble finishes. Visit www.22175NDobsonRoad.com. Offered at $2,350,000. Luxuriate in this newly constructed home in DC Ranch with all the amenities and no wait. This is ready to go! The best of finishes make this a real gem. Three bedrooms plus den, plus flex room! Views to the east and south are dramatic. Private cul-de-sac lot borders park and NAOS. Great canvas to plan your entertainer’s dream backyard. Kitchen is a cook’s masterpiece with stainless-steel appliances, granite slab countertops and an enormous work space island. Bathrooms are individually and handsomely appointed. $1,355,000.
front doors to lighting fixtures
Have you always dreamt of finding a special property in a tranquil setting that you could modernize and make it something truly spectacular? Well, look no further because we have the property for you! This charming home in Camelback Sierra is situated on a prime corner oversized lot with views toward the mountains beyond. Visit www.4651EastOrangeDrive.com for more details! Offered at $1,300,000. If you are someone who would enjoy having the best of shopping, dining, arts, entertainment, fitness and social activities at your doorstep, than you will want to read on! This two bedroom, two bathroom home is a true architectural delight with expansive windows and the finest of finishes throughout. Incomparable community benefits at Optima Camelview include a basketball and racquetball court, indoor and outdoor pool, spa, putting green and fitness center. Visit www.OptimaCamelviewUnit6005.com. Offered at $850,000.
Architectural Iron Adds Drama To Your Home
This Heatherbrook home in Peoria has neutral Berber carpet, handsome stone-like tile in entry, kitchen, laundry and baths. Kitchen and hall linen cabinets have granite tile counters. Warm medium oak cabinets throughout. Decorator neutral two-tone paint in great room with matching fabric vertical blinds. Open backyard with desert landscape and well-manicured plants for low maintenance. Beautifully-maintained community grounds with two clubhouses, dining, events and more. Visit www.19614N98thDrive.com. Offered at $215,000. This nicely-maintained end unit in La Crescenta has a premium interior location away from street noise. Nestled in the complex, it has a front patio and two side areas that allow for cross ventilation. Kitchen is brightly lit and sides to a comfortable dining area with lots of windows. Community has two pools. Offered at $149,000.
Produced by Desert Publishing • 480.460.0996 Produced by Lifestyle Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996
going organic
ISSN-1939-9693
Food For Thought Image Courtesy of Old Iron Doors
Q: What seems to be happening with Buyers looking for mortgages? Are there still some good programs out there?
elegant winter cuisine Vincent’s Rack Of Lamb
Event Calendar Gold Rush Days Downtown Wickenburg, Feb. 8th – 10th 800.942.5242 or wickenburgchamber.com This true Old-West celebration includes three action-packed days with festivities relating to the gold fever that created the town. Take in the shoot-out on Frontier Street, a parade, rodeo, carnival, gold panning, music, dancing and melodramas! Join visitors that come from all areas of the world to celebrate Arizona’s cowboy heritage and put a little “howdy pardner” in your weekend. Willo Historic Home Tour & Street Festival Willo Historic District, Feb. 10th willohistoricdistrict.com If you have an appreciation for architecturally significant and historic homes, you must plan to attend this annual showcase of a dozen homes or so in Phoenix’s Willo area. Tour a variety of homes ranging from Tudor to Spanish Revival, Bungalow to Ranch. These homes were built in the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s and are an excellent example of early and mid-century home design. Stroll along the beautiful tree-lined streets or ride aboard the trolley that will travel from home to home. Foothills 10K & 5K Run Frontier Town in Cave Creek, Feb. 16th 480.488.9095 or runningmasters.net Ready to “move it”? Let your feet do all the work while you enjoy the stunning Arizona landscape and beautiful sunny winter day on this annual run. Bring your out-of-town visitors and encourage them to participate or perhaps just cheer you on as you complete your 3.1- or 6.2-mile race. Be sure to enjoy a hearty lunch at a nearby Cave Creek café to celebrate your accomplishment! Broadway Showstoppers Symphony Hall, Feb. 22nd – 24th 602.495.1999 or phoenixsymphony.org Now lovers of Broadway and lovers of the symphony can come together to enjoy The Phoenix Symphony’s tribute to some of theater’s greatest musical pieces. Hear hits from Evita, Les Miserables, Miss Saigon and Phantom of the Opera. As part of the Pops Series, these performances will be led by Conductor Lawrence Golan along with Soprano Jenn Raithel-Newman and Tenor Ken Goodenberger. Matsuri: A Festival of Japan Heritage Square Park, Feb. 23rd – 24th 602.262.5029 or azmatsuri.org Come celebrate the Japanese culture at this 24th annual event. Featuring exhibits, demonstrations, arts & crafts, children’s activities, bonsai displays, a Japanese flea market, Japanese food and three stages of live entertainment, this is a great event for the entire family. Admission is free. Oscar Night® America Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa, Feb. 24th 602.212.9913 or arthritis.org If you haven’t been invited to attend the 80th Annual Academy Awards show in Hollywood this year, head on over to this officially-sanctioned Academy Awards viewing party right here in Phoenix. Benefiting the Greater Southwest Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, this event includes red-carpet arrivals, a cocktail reception, camera-snapping paparazzi and Oscar-themed event bags! The Academy Awards program will be broadcast during dinner and it promises to be a glamorous and fun-filled evening.
Anyone who has visited Tuscany and fallen in love with its rolling hills and stone houses appreciates the relaxing, earthy style that characterizes the idyllic landscape. Sun-drenched days under the Tuscan sky and pasta and wine under olive trees sound wonderful, but if a move to Tuscany isn’t in your future, you can bring that warm Old-World feel to your home by adding the right elements and accessories. Tuscan craftsmen are recognized for their unique ability to transform the elements of nature into beautiful decorative features for homes throughout Tuscany, including marble floors, terracotta roof tiles, sandstone columns, and decorative iron gates and accessories. It is only natural that many homeowners here in the United States want to recreate this warm and inviting rustic look in their own homes. The handcrafted look of wrought iron is gaining popularity in a wide range of home décor and was named the No. 1 decorating trend for 2007. The widespread appeal of Tuscan decor has increased the demand for ornamental iron design elements such as doors, gates, railings and balconies. Architectural iron adds a distinct and unique flavor to a home or garden area. It can be customized and incorporated into new construction, building renovation or to simply decorate a special room, yard garden or courtyard. Create a Dramatic Impression Wrought iron is a great way to enhance a home’s curb appeal. “Iron fencing blended with stonework is a popular trend that brings a touch of Tuscany to Arizona. We receive many requests for intricate iron courtyard gates and matching fences,” says Ann Cuneo, who owns Old Iron Doors in Scottsdale with her husband, Mario. The company designs, manufactures and installs custom ornamental wrought iron doors. In addition, wrought iron is becoming highly sought-after in garage door design because it softens the overall look of a home’s exterior, giving it texture while making a powerful style statement. Ornamental iron garage doors provide the “wow factor” many homeowners have been searching for to complement their home. It’s important to note that iron can be adapted to other decorating styles besides Tuscan as a primary element or as a decorative accent. “Almost any design that you can imagine can be translated into architectural iron,” says Cuneo. “Recently, for example, we made an iron fence topped with a skull head.” Customized iron doors and gates were once out of reach for many homeowners’ budgets, according to Cuneo. “In the past five years, we’ve watched the competition grow. Prices have come down so iron elements are more accessible to a greater number of people,” says Cuneo. She adds that many semi-custom homes in new subdivisions now feature optional, decorative wrought iron doors, which are constructed out of 14-gauge steel and serve double-duty as security doors. Eye-Catching Wall Decor Mediterranean interior design can be introduced into a decorating theme by using iron wall grilles as a grand focal point or to create the illusion of windows in small rooms. When decorating expansive walls in rooms with high ceilings, iron wall decor is an excellent choice to fill spaces above wall tapestry, mirrors and framed art. Doors and windows also can be complemented by scrolled iron. Wrought iron wine cellar doors are another sought-after functional design element. Smaller decorative iron accents, such as wall art, crosses, candlesticks, sconces and mirror frames, in a variety of styles, reflect your own personal taste and provide a signature decorating statement. Iron framed mirrors and magazine racks are excellent choices for the Mediterranean bathroom where iron candle holders and vertical wall grilles can fill narrow wall space. Iron wall towel racks and wall baskets are smart solutions for towel storage. In your foyer or dining room, include the feel of a Mediterranean garden by using an iron wall grille as the backdrop for a floral arrangement. With decorative wrought iron elements, you can blend the simplistic beauty of Old-World style with the sophistication of today’s modern accessories to create the home where you love to live and friends beg to visit.
Your Home
A few years ago, buying “organic” meant making a special trip to an organic food store or hunting down the lone organic grower at a farmers’ market. Now, nearly every traditional grocer is expanding its organic produce section. As you wheel your shopping cart down the aisles of your local supermarket, you probably have noticed the increasing selection of organic foods. From the produce department to the frozen food section, the demand for organic food is skyrocketing as more consumers realize the benefits of going organic. What is organic? An organic food is one that is grown without the use of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, genetically modified organisms, or ionizing radiation. Animals that produce meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products do not take antibiotics or growth hormones. Why is organic food becoming so popular? As people age and become more health conscious, there is a growing demand for organic food. Not surprisingly, health-conscious baby boomers – particularly those ages 45 to 54 – are fueling the buying trend, according to the Organic Trade Association (OTA). In addition, parents concerned about their children’s health are demanding more organic food choices, including healthier snacks. Look closely and you’ll see that some brands of baby food even display the USDA’s green organic logo and label. Only foods in the categories “100% organic” and “organic” (containing multiple ingredients which are 95% to 100% organic) may display the USDA Organic Seal. Research Confirms Health Benefits In October 2007, OTA hailed preliminary findings from a breakthrough European Union (EU) study that indicates some organic foods are more nutritional than their non-organic counterparts. This research shows organic fruit and vegetables have up to 40 percent more antioxidants than non-organically grown produce. Antioxidants play a critical role in everything from preventing cancer and heart disease to boosting the immune system and slowing the aging process. Got organic milk? The study also shows that organic milk contains up to 60 to 80 percent more antioxidants than conventionally produced milk in the summer, and 50 to 60 percent higher levels in the winter. Organic milk also was found to contain higher levels of vitamin E. Organic milk helps build strong bones and teeth for unborn babies, while organic fruits are better for pregnant women than pesticide-sprayed fruits. Consumer Perception Research compiled by the 2005 Whole Foods Market Organic Trend Tracker found that more than a quarter of Americans eat organic foods several times per month, citing these top three reasons: no pesticides (70.3%), freshness (68.3%)
and health and nutrition (67.1%). More than half of respondents reported they purchase organic foods to avoid genetically modified foods (55%) with 52.8% saying organic foods are “better for my health” and 52.4% saying they are better for the environment. A 2007 study from the Food Marketing Institute supports these findings, underscoring that consumers buy organic because they believe foods are more nutritious, taste better and are free of pesticides. Not all consumers, however, are jumping on the organic bandwagon. Some people do not buy organic foods and beverages because of higher price, lack of availability and loyalty to non-organic brands. Organic food enthusiasts, though, claim that once you weigh in all the health and environmental factors, organics are a bargain. Isn’t it better to pay a bit more for healthier food today and save on medical costs tomorrow? Organic Grocery List The produce aisle is key to ensuring your diet contains adequate antioxidants. Look for organic foods that are rich in beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, selenium, zinc, manganese, copper and iron. The good news is that you can’t overdose on antioxidants if you’re getting them from food. Consume at least five servings of organic fruits and vegetables a day. From a nutritional standpoint, they are low in calories, high in fiber and water-rich, offering a bonanza of health benefits. Tea time? When it comes to buying organic food, there are two other nutritional best bets sitting right on the grocery shelf: organic tea and organic cocoa. They don’t replace the dietary need for fruits and vegetables, but they’re high in antioxidants and great additions to your shopping cart. Bon appetit!
Grilled Rack of Lamb with Spicy Bell Pepper Jelly
Local Flavor!
February 2008
Ingredients 8 ea. 1 lb. rack of lamb 8 sprigs dried rosemary* 2 ea. red bell peppers 2 ea. yellow bell peppers
8 ea. red serrano chiles 1/2 lb. sugar salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Slice or julienne peppers and chiles. Mix with sugar and set overnight in refrigerator. The next day, cook over low heat for approximately 10 to 15 minutes without adding any liquid.** Proceed to cool and serve at room temperature. Trim lamb in portions of approximately 8 oz. (per person). Grill over mesquite to desired temperature (rare- 3 minutes per side; medium- 6 minutes per side; well-done- 9 to 10 minutes per side). Add dried rosemary (one per portion) and flame. After rosemary is flamed, blow out at once and serve immediately so essence of rosemary is fresh. *To dry rosemary, put fresh rosemary in oven for approximately 10 minutes at 350 degrees.
Featuring Vincent on Camelback 3930 E. Camelback Rd. • Phoenix 602.224.0225 or vincentsoncamelback.com
**The peppers and chiles mixed with sugar will create their own liquid overnight. Serves 8
Event Calendar Gold Rush Days Downtown Wickenburg, Feb. 8th – 10th 800.942.5242 or wickenburgchamber.com This true Old-West celebration includes three action-packed days with festivities relating to the gold fever that created the town. Take in the shoot-out on Frontier Street, a parade, rodeo, carnival, gold panning, music, dancing and melodramas! Join visitors that come from all areas of the world to celebrate Arizona’s cowboy heritage and put a little “howdy pardner” in your weekend. Willo Historic Home Tour & Street Festival Willo Historic District, Feb. 10th willohistoricdistrict.com If you have an appreciation for architecturally significant and historic homes, you must plan to attend this annual showcase of a dozen homes or so in Phoenix’s Willo area. Tour a variety of homes ranging from Tudor to Spanish Revival, Bungalow to Ranch. These homes were built in the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s and are an excellent example of early and mid-century home design. Stroll along the beautiful tree-lined streets or ride aboard the trolley that will travel from home to home. Foothills 10K & 5K Run Frontier Town in Cave Creek, Feb. 16th 480.488.9095 or runningmasters.net Ready to “move it”? Let your feet do all the work while you enjoy the stunning Arizona landscape and beautiful sunny winter day on this annual run. Bring your out-of-town visitors and encourage them to participate or perhaps just cheer you on as you complete your 3.1- or 6.2-mile race. Be sure to enjoy a hearty lunch at a nearby Cave Creek café to celebrate your accomplishment! Broadway Showstoppers Symphony Hall, Feb. 22nd – 24th 602.495.1999 or phoenixsymphony.org Now lovers of Broadway and lovers of the symphony can come together to enjoy The Phoenix Symphony’s tribute to some of theater’s greatest musical pieces. Hear hits from Evita, Les Miserables, Miss Saigon and Phantom of the Opera. As part of the Pops Series, these performances will be led by Conductor Lawrence Golan along with Soprano Jenn Raithel-Newman and Tenor Ken Goodenberger. Matsuri: A Festival of Japan Heritage Square Park, Feb. 23rd – 24th 602.262.5029 or azmatsuri.org Come celebrate the Japanese culture at this 24th annual event. Featuring exhibits, demonstrations, arts & crafts, children’s activities, bonsai displays, a Japanese flea market, Japanese food and three stages of live entertainment, this is a great event for the entire family. Admission is free. Oscar Night® America Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa, Feb. 24th 602.212.9913 or arthritis.org If you haven’t been invited to attend the 80th Annual Academy Awards show in Hollywood this year, head on over to this officially-sanctioned Academy Awards viewing party right here in Phoenix. Benefiting the Greater Southwest Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, this event includes red-carpet arrivals, a cocktail reception, camera-snapping paparazzi and Oscar-themed event bags! The Academy Awards program will be broadcast during dinner and it promises to be a glamorous and fun-filled evening.
Anyone who has visited Tuscany and fallen in love with its rolling hills and stone houses appreciates the relaxing, earthy style that characterizes the idyllic landscape. Sun-drenched days under the Tuscan sky and pasta and wine under olive trees sound wonderful, but if a move to Tuscany isn’t in your future, you can bring that warm Old-World feel to your home by adding the right elements and accessories. Tuscan craftsmen are recognized for their unique ability to transform the elements of nature into beautiful decorative features for homes throughout Tuscany, including marble floors, terracotta roof tiles, sandstone columns, and decorative iron gates and accessories. It is only natural that many homeowners here in the United States want to recreate this warm and inviting rustic look in their own homes. The handcrafted look of wrought iron is gaining popularity in a wide range of home décor and was named the No. 1 decorating trend for 2007. The widespread appeal of Tuscan decor has increased the demand for ornamental iron design elements such as doors, gates, railings and balconies. Architectural iron adds a distinct and unique flavor to a home or garden area. It can be customized and incorporated into new construction, building renovation or to simply decorate a special room, yard garden or courtyard. Create a Dramatic Impression Wrought iron is a great way to enhance a home’s curb appeal. “Iron fencing blended with stonework is a popular trend that brings a touch of Tuscany to Arizona. We receive many requests for intricate iron courtyard gates and matching fences,” says Ann Cuneo, who owns Old Iron Doors in Scottsdale with her husband, Mario. The company designs, manufactures and installs custom ornamental wrought iron doors. In addition, wrought iron is becoming highly sought-after in garage door design because it softens the overall look of a home’s exterior, giving it texture while making a powerful style statement. Ornamental iron garage doors provide the “wow factor” many homeowners have been searching for to complement their home. It’s important to note that iron can be adapted to other decorating styles besides Tuscan as a primary element or as a decorative accent. “Almost any design that you can imagine can be translated into architectural iron,” says Cuneo. “Recently, for example, we made an iron fence topped with a skull head.” Customized iron doors and gates were once out of reach for many homeowners’ budgets, according to Cuneo. “In the past five years, we’ve watched the competition grow. Prices have come down so iron elements are more accessible to a greater number of people,” says Cuneo. She adds that many semi-custom homes in new subdivisions now feature optional, decorative wrought iron doors, which are constructed out of 14-gauge steel and serve double-duty as security doors. Eye-Catching Wall Decor Mediterranean interior design can be introduced into a decorating theme by using iron wall grilles as a grand focal point or to create the illusion of windows in small rooms. When decorating expansive walls in rooms with high ceilings, iron wall decor is an excellent choice to fill spaces above wall tapestry, mirrors and framed art. Doors and windows also can be complemented by scrolled iron. Wrought iron wine cellar doors are another sought-after functional design element. Smaller decorative iron accents, such as wall art, crosses, candlesticks, sconces and mirror frames, in a variety of styles, reflect your own personal taste and provide a signature decorating statement. Iron framed mirrors and magazine racks are excellent choices for the Mediterranean bathroom where iron candle holders and vertical wall grilles can fill narrow wall space. Iron wall towel racks and wall baskets are smart solutions for towel storage. In your foyer or dining room, include the feel of a Mediterranean garden by using an iron wall grille as the backdrop for a floral arrangement. With decorative wrought iron elements, you can blend the simplistic beauty of Old-World style with the sophistication of today’s modern accessories to create the home where you love to live and friends beg to visit.
Your Home
A few years ago, buying “organic” meant making a special trip to an organic food store or hunting down the lone organic grower at a farmers’ market. Now, nearly every traditional grocer is expanding its organic produce section. As you wheel your shopping cart down the aisles of your local supermarket, you probably have noticed the increasing selection of organic foods. From the produce department to the frozen food section, the demand for organic food is skyrocketing as more consumers realize the benefits of going organic. What is organic? An organic food is one that is grown without the use of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, genetically modified organisms, or ionizing radiation. Animals that produce meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products do not take antibiotics or growth hormones. Why is organic food becoming so popular? As people age and become more health conscious, there is a growing demand for organic food. Not surprisingly, health-conscious baby boomers – particularly those ages 45 to 54 – are fueling the buying trend, according to the Organic Trade Association (OTA). In addition, parents concerned about their children’s health are demanding more organic food choices, including healthier snacks. Look closely and you’ll see that some brands of baby food even display the USDA’s green organic logo and label. Only foods in the categories “100% organic” and “organic” (containing multiple ingredients which are 95% to 100% organic) may display the USDA Organic Seal. Research Confirms Health Benefits In October 2007, OTA hailed preliminary findings from a breakthrough European Union (EU) study that indicates some organic foods are more nutritional than their non-organic counterparts. This research shows organic fruit and vegetables have up to 40 percent more antioxidants than non-organically grown produce. Antioxidants play a critical role in everything from preventing cancer and heart disease to boosting the immune system and slowing the aging process. Got organic milk? The study also shows that organic milk contains up to 60 to 80 percent more antioxidants than conventionally produced milk in the summer, and 50 to 60 percent higher levels in the winter. Organic milk also was found to contain higher levels of vitamin E. Organic milk helps build strong bones and teeth for unborn babies, while organic fruits are better for pregnant women than pesticide-sprayed fruits. Consumer Perception Research compiled by the 2005 Whole Foods Market Organic Trend Tracker found that more than a quarter of Americans eat organic foods several times per month, citing these top three reasons: no pesticides (70.3%), freshness (68.3%)
and health and nutrition (67.1%). More than half of respondents reported they purchase organic foods to avoid genetically modified foods (55%) with 52.8% saying organic foods are “better for my health” and 52.4% saying they are better for the environment. A 2007 study from the Food Marketing Institute supports these findings, underscoring that consumers buy organic because they believe foods are more nutritious, taste better and are free of pesticides. Not all consumers, however, are jumping on the organic bandwagon. Some people do not buy organic foods and beverages because of higher price, lack of availability and loyalty to non-organic brands. Organic food enthusiasts, though, claim that once you weigh in all the health and environmental factors, organics are a bargain. Isn’t it better to pay a bit more for healthier food today and save on medical costs tomorrow? Organic Grocery List The produce aisle is key to ensuring your diet contains adequate antioxidants. Look for organic foods that are rich in beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, selenium, zinc, manganese, copper and iron. The good news is that you can’t overdose on antioxidants if you’re getting them from food. Consume at least five servings of organic fruits and vegetables a day. From a nutritional standpoint, they are low in calories, high in fiber and water-rich, offering a bonanza of health benefits. Tea time? When it comes to buying organic food, there are two other nutritional best bets sitting right on the grocery shelf: organic tea and organic cocoa. They don’t replace the dietary need for fruits and vegetables, but they’re high in antioxidants and great additions to your shopping cart. Bon appetit!
Grilled Rack of Lamb with Spicy Bell Pepper Jelly
Local Flavor!
February 2008
Ingredients 8 ea. 1 lb. rack of lamb 8 sprigs dried rosemary* 2 ea. red bell peppers 2 ea. yellow bell peppers
8 ea. red serrano chiles 1/2 lb. sugar salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Slice or julienne peppers and chiles. Mix with sugar and set overnight in refrigerator. The next day, cook over low heat for approximately 10 to 15 minutes without adding any liquid.** Proceed to cool and serve at room temperature. Trim lamb in portions of approximately 8 oz. (per person). Grill over mesquite to desired temperature (rare- 3 minutes per side; medium- 6 minutes per side; well-done- 9 to 10 minutes per side). Add dried rosemary (one per portion) and flame. After rosemary is flamed, blow out at once and serve immediately so essence of rosemary is fresh. *To dry rosemary, put fresh rosemary in oven for approximately 10 minutes at 350 degrees.
Featuring Vincent on Camelback 3930 E. Camelback Rd. • Phoenix 602.224.0225 or vincentsoncamelback.com
**The peppers and chiles mixed with sugar will create their own liquid overnight. Serves 8
A: Thanks for bringing up the Buyer side of the equation. We have been focusing heavily on the Sellers in recent months and yet whether selling or buying, there is intense interest in how the “loan side of the transaction” is faring these days. I have opportunities on a daily basis to talk with lenders and appraisers, allowing me to keep my finger on the pulse on the market. To maximize the chances of success, Buyers should have an application completed and submitted to underwriting before they begin looking for a home. This is sound advice in any market however, it is more important with current strict lender guidelines. Having 20-30% down makes it much easier to secure the best possible rates and programs. Credit scores, more than ever, have a huge influence and can impact the offered interest rate as much as 3/4 % for seemingly slight changes in credit scores. Appraisals continue to be closely scrutinized by underwriters. Many lenders will only consider comparable sales in the past 45-60 days. Seller Agents who look back 18 months in a narrow search within a subdivision are not giving Sellers the correct information of what is happening in the market TODAY! Likewise, Buyer Agents who bring in low offers with low earnest money and without proper consideration of what has sold in recent weeks don’t serve their clients well, either. Strong earnest money, pre-qualifying documentation and serious initial offers are going to get the Sellers’ attention and perhaps ultimately translate to a better price for the Buyer. There are some great buys out there right now as well as some grossly over-priced listings. Having a highlyskilled Buyer Agent to sort through the inventory and help the Buyer find those good buys is a huge asset to the Buyer. Remember, even in a market such as we are experiencing right now, once a property is properly priced it should sell very close to, if not at, full list price.
Henderson consistently ranks among the top ten individual RE/MAX agents in Arizona and is a recipient of the Business Journal Real Estate Leadership Award for 2005. Her charitable works include Habitat for Humanity, Children’s Miracle Network and the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
THE GAYLE HENDERSON GROUP ABR, CRS, GRI, e-Pro, CLHMS RE/MAX Excalibur 8510 E. Shea Blvd. #100 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 602.850.4335 gayle@AZMovingPlan.com
Visit www.AZMovingPlan.com for latest market news, a free “What’s My Home Worth” report, and free important e-reports for Buyers and Sellers. If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.
Featured Listings
Arizona Homeowner February / 2008
Contemporary masterpiece in Pinnacle Peak Vistas is a perfect backdrop for any furnishing style. Wall of windows opens from great room to resort setting of backyard; a true oasis nestled between the house and guest casita. Ultimate in privacy with fabulous viewsa must see! An entertainer’s dream separated by upstairs and downstairs bedroom suites, media center, full bar and open classic cook’s kitchen. Drama created with special lighting, art walls, open staircase, and combination of dry-stack stone and highly-polished marble finishes. Visit www.22175NDobsonRoad.com. Offered at $2,350,000. Luxuriate in this newly constructed home in DC Ranch with all the amenities and no wait. This is ready to go! The best of finishes make this a real gem. Three bedrooms plus den, plus flex room! Views to the east and south are dramatic. Private cul-de-sac lot borders park and NAOS. Great canvas to plan your entertainer’s dream backyard. Kitchen is a cook’s masterpiece with stainless-steel appliances, granite slab countertops and an enormous work space island. Bathrooms are individually and handsomely appointed. $1,355,000.
front doors to lighting fixtures
Have you always dreamt of finding a special property in a tranquil setting that you could modernize and make it something truly spectacular? Well, look no further because we have the property for you! This charming home in Camelback Sierra is situated on a prime corner oversized lot with views toward the mountains beyond. Visit www.4651EastOrangeDrive.com for more details! Offered at $1,300,000. If you are someone who would enjoy having the best of shopping, dining, arts, entertainment, fitness and social activities at your doorstep, than you will want to read on! This two bedroom, two bathroom home is a true architectural delight with expansive windows and the finest of finishes throughout. Incomparable community benefits at Optima Camelview include a basketball and racquetball court, indoor and outdoor pool, spa, putting green and fitness center. Visit www.OptimaCamelviewUnit6005.com. Offered at $850,000.
Architectural Iron Adds Drama To Your Home
This Heatherbrook home in Peoria has neutral Berber carpet, handsome stone-like tile in entry, kitchen, laundry and baths. Kitchen and hall linen cabinets have granite tile counters. Warm medium oak cabinets throughout. Decorator neutral two-tone paint in great room with matching fabric vertical blinds. Open backyard with desert landscape and well-manicured plants for low maintenance. Beautifully-maintained community grounds with two clubhouses, dining, events and more. Visit www.19614N98thDrive.com. Offered at $215,000. This nicely-maintained end unit in La Crescenta has a premium interior location away from street noise. Nestled in the complex, it has a front patio and two side areas that allow for cross ventilation. Kitchen is brightly lit and sides to a comfortable dining area with lots of windows. Community has two pools. Offered at $149,000.
Produced by Desert Publishing • 480.460.0996 Produced by Lifestyle Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996
going organic
ISSN-1939-9693
Food For Thought Image Courtesy of Old Iron Doors
Q: What seems to be happening with Buyers looking for mortgages? Are there still some good programs out there?
elegant winter cuisine Vincent’s Rack Of Lamb