Arizona Homeowner May / 2010
Inventive Home Lending 1400 E. Southern Avenue, Suite 615 Tempe, Arizona 85282 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
The financing of your real estate can be a daunting task. You want the best interest rate and you want the pre-approval, application and close of escrow processes to be hassle-free. I understand. I listen. I respond quickly. • I specialize in custom-designing a specific loan for each individual client. With over 400 loan programs at my fingertips, you will get a mortgage that best fits your unique situation. • I use the latest technology in loan underwriting. You’ll receive a loan decision within hours. Don’t wait days to find out if you qualify for the home you really want! • Closing thousands of loans and working with thousands of borrowers assures you that I have the knowledge and expertise to handle any situation. • My impeccable reputation is my best asset. I always strive to exceed your expectations!
CALL ME TODAY!
Help for Homeowners
• Mortgage rates are at a 50-year low. Almost everyone can benefit by either buying a new home or refinancing to a low fixed rate. Call now for a free review of your options.
Discover Arizona’s Blue Gems
• First-time homebuyers are eligible for an up to $8K tax credit, and repeat homebuyers are eligible for an up to $6,500 tax credit for buying a home by April 30th, and closing by June 30th. • If you have a Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA or VA loan you may be eligible for refinancing even if your owe more on your loan then your home is worth. (Call us to determine if you are eligible.)
Mortgage Rates as of 4/7/10
Loan Rates for $150K-$417K: • 30 Year Fixed @ 5.000%/5.309%APR • 15 Year Fixed @ 4.500%/4.879%APR • 5/1 ARM @ 3.875%/4.253% APR
Loan Rates for $418K-$1.5M: Brady Holland President 480.627.2423 bradyh@ihlending.com www.ihlending.com
hit the water!
• 5/1 ARM @ 4.375%/4.672% APR • 7/1 ARM @ 4.750%/5.099% APR
Home Improvement Loans Many people are buying homes that are bargains but need some updates. Many existing homeowners want to make improvements to their homes as well. The common denominator is that people lack cash right now and want to finance home improvements. Just a few short years ago, home equity loans and even credit cards were a fast and easy way to finance home improvements. But the days of easy credit are gone and securing a home equity loan is just about as easy as finding Big Foot! We have home improvement loan solutions. We have loans that allow buyers to buy a home with the home improvement money financed in that is ready at move-in for use. And we also have refinance loans that allow homeowners to refinance their existing loans at today’s record low interest rates and finance in the home improvement money needed. And the nice thing about our programs is that you don’t need a lot of equity in your home to qualify because we give you value credit for the improvements that will be made. Call me today for full details!
*Note: Quotes assume primary home financing with 720+ fico score on a single family property with 20%-30% equity. All quotes offered at 1% origination fee. Certain restrictions apply.
MB0905347
Produced by Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996 • www.DesertLifestyle.net
summer’s approaching Stay Clear of Hot Weather Hazards
tantalize your taste buds Bice Bistro’s Tuna Tartare
Event Calendar May 2010 25th Annual Children’s Charity Golf Tournament Gainey Ranch Golf Course, May 7th 602.275.7852 or umom.org Tee off to a great cause in support of the UMOM New Day Centers, an organization dedicated to helping families and children in need through programs and shelters. This golf event also includes evening programming beginning with a silent auction and reception followed by a fabulous dinner.
Ib Anderson’s Play Symphony Hall, May 14th – 16th 602.381.1096 or balletaz.org Described as a “seven-course meal,” Ballet Arizona’s Artistic Director Ib Andersen showcases this unique display of art through human form. Spectators experience a vast amount of emotion and feelings through the movements of over 30 talented dancers. This performance is aesthetically intriguing with imaginative choreography, costume and lighting design. Glee Live! Dodge Theatre, May 15th 602.379.2800 or gleetour2010.com You sing and dance along every Tuesday night to your favorite musical sitcom, now is your chance to see them perform live! Glee is taking their show on the road and entertaining the crowd with their many covers such as Don’t Stop Believing and the fan favorite Somebody to Love. Phoenix is lucky enough to be one of only three cities that will be hosting this exciting event! Diamondbacks vs. Blue Jays Chase Field, May 23rd 602.462.6700 or arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com Cheer on our Diamondbacks as they play into their 12th season. Whether you splurge on a pool suite or just regular field-level tickets, you will surely enjoy yourself. Bring the kiddies out for this game – not only will they relish devouring those peanuts and popcorn, but the first 5,000 will receive a Diamondbacks bat and ball set. Chimney Rock Wine Dinner BLT Steak, May 27th 480.905.7979 or localwineevents.com Expand your knowledge of wine over a fabulous five-course meal. This year’s Wine Series welcomes John Terlato, Vice President of Terlato Wines International. John will take you through his family’s Chimney Rock Winery collection, while Chef de Cuisine Marc Hennessy marvels you with his dinner creations.
As the weather heats up, desert dwelling homeowners have new things to think about around their abode. From pool safety to poisonous critters, be sure you and your family are protected this summer. 1. Polish up your pool safety. For many of us, summertime means pool time. If you own a pool, make this the year you install—and insist on—unyielding safety measures. Maybe it’s installing a child-proof gate around the perimeter of your pool or purchasing a monitor that alarms if a heavy object falls into the water. A family safety review is also in order: Every swimmer should be sure to check that the gate closes behind them when entering and exiting the pool area and every child should wear a safety vest until they are proficient swimmers. If you and your spouse are in charge of watching the kids swim, take turns as to who’s on “kid watch” and who can relax and enjoy themselves. Remember, it only takes a few seconds for an accident to happen. Make sure all visiting friends and family members know your house pool rules too. 2. Beware warm-weather creepy crawlers. In our area, spring and summer are the time for scorpions, rattlesnakes, and other poisonous critters to come out of hiding. (Did you know that Arizona has more species of rattlesnakes than any other state?) That said, ensure your family knows what to do if they spot one of these venomous creatures. For the most part, the old adage holds true: Leave them alone and they will leave you alone. According to the Banner Good Samaritan Poison and Drug Information Center (800.222.1222), rattlesnake bites are rarely fatal if treated but their bite can be very painful. Avoid handling or disturbing rattlesnakes you may come across. If you do accidentally get bitten, call the poison control center immediately. Scorpions can sting. According to Banner, the black scorpion is the only one that spells medical concern—and it’s one of the types commonly found in Arizona. (A recent Banner study showed that 60 percent of people stung by scorpions were stung on the hand or bare foot—so don’t reach into dark areas or walk around barefoot at night!) To keep them—as well as black widow spiders, which are also found in our area— out of your home, check to make sure all doors and windows are closed tight and caulk where necessary. Don’t let wood or garbage pile up, as this is where these desert dwellers like to hide. Finally, beware the Gila monster: This venomous lizard comes out a few weeks per year, but if it gets cornered and bites you it can cause swelling, weakness, dizziness, nausea, chills and even death. 3. Hot, hot, hot! When doing work around your home, it’s imperative to be mindful of the hazards of the heat. With summer temperatures regularly above 100 degrees, you don’t want to fall victim to heat exhaustion, or worse, heat stroke. The Arizona Department of Health Services advises taking the following measures during the hottest days: Drink plenty of water—much more if you’re working outdoors; dress in lightweight clothing and wear a hat; and slow down and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day. Signs of heat-related illness to look for: thirst, cramps, nausea, flushed skin, and dizziness. If you notice signs of heat stroke: lack of sweat, odd or bizarre behavior, delusions, even seizures, call 911 immediately as heat stroke can quickly become a critical condition.
Your Home
APACHE LAKE SIZE: 2,568 acres LOCATION: About 65 miles east of Phoenix. (Its close proximity to the city makes it an ideal weekend getaway.) BEST KNOWN FOR: Its incredible setting, alongside the Apache Trail, one of Arizona’s most scenic drives. WHAT TO DO THERE: Fishing (walleye, bass, sunfish, and more), boating, swimming, and water skiing. LAKE HAVASU SIZE: 33 square miles LOCATION: Just outside of Lake Havasu City, on the border between Arizona and California. BEST KNOWN FOR: London Bridge nearby (yes, it’s the original London Bridge, moved across the pond from England brick by brick and completed in 1971). Millions visit this uberpopular lake each year. WHAT TO DO THERE: Boating, fishing (bass, catfish, trout, and more), swimming, and water skiing. Famous for house boating and spring break as well.
LAKE PLEASANT SIZE: 10,000 acres (it’s huge!) LOCATION: Peoria, about 30 miles north of Phoenix, in both Maricopa and Yavapai counties. (Another close watering hole for Phoenix residents, Lake Pleasant is perfect for a quick trip.) BEST KNOWN FOR: Being Arizona’s second largest lake; fun fact: when first created in the 1920s, its dam (Waddel Dam) was the largest agricultural dam of its kind (a new dam was built in 1992 and the old one is now covered under 100 feet of water in the lake). WHAT TO DO THERE: Swimming, water skiing, jet skiing, sailing, and other water sports, as well as fishing. LAKE POWELL SIZE: 186 miles long (it’s the second largest man-made reservoir in the United States), with more shoreline than the West Coast of the USA. LOCATION: Straddles the borders of Arizona and Utah, near Page. BEST KNOWN FOR: Can you say scenery? The crystal blue water and red-rock
canyons are unforgettable; also, Rainbow Bridge National Monument, the world’s longest natural bridge, which is accessible by boat. Stunning Horseshoe Bend (as seen on cover) is located just downstream. WHAT TO DO THERE: Swimming, fishing, water skiing, hiking, and scuba diving. Perhaps best known for spectacular house boating. MORMON LAKE SIZE: 600 acres (when full) LOCATION: 29 miles southeast of Flagstaff BEST KNOWN FOR: Being Arizona’s largest natural lake; also, for the abundant wildlife nearby (think elk, eagles, and antelope!); sometimes,
it shrinks in size and can even dry up completely during drought. WHAT TO DO THERE: Boating, fishing (sunfish, catfish, and more), windsurfing, picnicking, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. WOODS CANYON LAKE SIZE: 52 acres LOCATION: Within the ApacheSitgreaves National Forest, about 30 miles east of Payson. BEST KNOWN FOR: Trout! Plus, its setting amidst Ponderosa pines, oaks, aspens, and Douglas firs, along the Mogollon Rim. WHAT TO DO THERE: Boating and fishing (Rainbow and Brown trout abound).
Tuna Tartare Ingredients: 3 oz. first-grade Ahi tuna 2 oz. Atlantic salmon filet 1/4 cup fresh avocado, sliced 1 Tbs. fresh tomato, diced Juice from 1/2 lemon 2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil 2 Tbs. teriyaki glaze 1/4 oz. fresh chives Salt & pepper 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Local Flavor!
Mothers Day Brunch Phoenix Zoo, May 9th 602.273.1341 or phoenixzoo.org Looking for a way to tell Mom that you’re just “wild about her”? How about a unique Mothers Day experience at the zoo? Enjoy a gourmet catered lunch and some quality time with Mom as you stroll around the zoo checking in on your favorite wildlife. Brunch is served from 11-1, but your admission includes all-day access to the zoo.
Our state is blessed with some of the best and most scenic lakes in the country. Whether you want to go for a cool swim, try your skill at waterskiing, or you’re more interested in angling, check out these Arizona oases.
Featuring Bice Bistro Westgate City Center • Glendale • 623.877.4760 or biceglendale.com
Preparation: Dice the tuna and salmon and place in mixing bowl. Add the diced tomato, lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper. Drizzle the teriyaki glaze on a plate. In a round mold, layer the avocado, the tartare, sliced onion and garnish with fresh chives. Set atop plate and remove ring mold to serve.
Event Calendar May 2010 25th Annual Children’s Charity Golf Tournament Gainey Ranch Golf Course, May 7th 602.275.7852 or umom.org Tee off to a great cause in support of the UMOM New Day Centers, an organization dedicated to helping families and children in need through programs and shelters. This golf event also includes evening programming beginning with a silent auction and reception followed by a fabulous dinner.
Ib Anderson’s Play Symphony Hall, May 14th – 16th 602.381.1096 or balletaz.org Described as a “seven-course meal,” Ballet Arizona’s Artistic Director Ib Andersen showcases this unique display of art through human form. Spectators experience a vast amount of emotion and feelings through the movements of over 30 talented dancers. This performance is aesthetically intriguing with imaginative choreography, costume and lighting design. Glee Live! Dodge Theatre, May 15th 602.379.2800 or gleetour2010.com You sing and dance along every Tuesday night to your favorite musical sitcom, now is your chance to see them perform live! Glee is taking their show on the road and entertaining the crowd with their many covers such as Don’t Stop Believing and the fan favorite Somebody to Love. Phoenix is lucky enough to be one of only three cities that will be hosting this exciting event! Diamondbacks vs. Blue Jays Chase Field, May 23rd 602.462.6700 or arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com Cheer on our Diamondbacks as they play into their 12th season. Whether you splurge on a pool suite or just regular field-level tickets, you will surely enjoy yourself. Bring the kiddies out for this game – not only will they relish devouring those peanuts and popcorn, but the first 5,000 will receive a Diamondbacks bat and ball set. Chimney Rock Wine Dinner BLT Steak, May 27th 480.905.7979 or localwineevents.com Expand your knowledge of wine over a fabulous five-course meal. This year’s Wine Series welcomes John Terlato, Vice President of Terlato Wines International. John will take you through his family’s Chimney Rock Winery collection, while Chef de Cuisine Marc Hennessy marvels you with his dinner creations.
As the weather heats up, desert dwelling homeowners have new things to think about around their abode. From pool safety to poisonous critters, be sure you and your family are protected this summer. 1. Polish up your pool safety. For many of us, summertime means pool time. If you own a pool, make this the year you install—and insist on—unyielding safety measures. Maybe it’s installing a child-proof gate around the perimeter of your pool or purchasing a monitor that alarms if a heavy object falls into the water. A family safety review is also in order: Every swimmer should be sure to check that the gate closes behind them when entering and exiting the pool area and every child should wear a safety vest until they are proficient swimmers. If you and your spouse are in charge of watching the kids swim, take turns as to who’s on “kid watch” and who can relax and enjoy themselves. Remember, it only takes a few seconds for an accident to happen. Make sure all visiting friends and family members know your house pool rules too. 2. Beware warm-weather creepy crawlers. In our area, spring and summer are the time for scorpions, rattlesnakes, and other poisonous critters to come out of hiding. (Did you know that Arizona has more species of rattlesnakes than any other state?) That said, ensure your family knows what to do if they spot one of these venomous creatures. For the most part, the old adage holds true: Leave them alone and they will leave you alone. According to the Banner Good Samaritan Poison and Drug Information Center (800.222.1222), rattlesnake bites are rarely fatal if treated but their bite can be very painful. Avoid handling or disturbing rattlesnakes you may come across. If you do accidentally get bitten, call the poison control center immediately. Scorpions can sting. According to Banner, the black scorpion is the only one that spells medical concern—and it’s one of the types commonly found in Arizona. (A recent Banner study showed that 60 percent of people stung by scorpions were stung on the hand or bare foot—so don’t reach into dark areas or walk around barefoot at night!) To keep them—as well as black widow spiders, which are also found in our area— out of your home, check to make sure all doors and windows are closed tight and caulk where necessary. Don’t let wood or garbage pile up, as this is where these desert dwellers like to hide. Finally, beware the Gila monster: This venomous lizard comes out a few weeks per year, but if it gets cornered and bites you it can cause swelling, weakness, dizziness, nausea, chills and even death. 3. Hot, hot, hot! When doing work around your home, it’s imperative to be mindful of the hazards of the heat. With summer temperatures regularly above 100 degrees, you don’t want to fall victim to heat exhaustion, or worse, heat stroke. The Arizona Department of Health Services advises taking the following measures during the hottest days: Drink plenty of water—much more if you’re working outdoors; dress in lightweight clothing and wear a hat; and slow down and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day. Signs of heat-related illness to look for: thirst, cramps, nausea, flushed skin, and dizziness. If you notice signs of heat stroke: lack of sweat, odd or bizarre behavior, delusions, even seizures, call 911 immediately as heat stroke can quickly become a critical condition.
Your Home
APACHE LAKE SIZE: 2,568 acres LOCATION: About 65 miles east of Phoenix. (Its close proximity to the city makes it an ideal weekend getaway.) BEST KNOWN FOR: Its incredible setting, alongside the Apache Trail, one of Arizona’s most scenic drives. WHAT TO DO THERE: Fishing (walleye, bass, sunfish, and more), boating, swimming, and water skiing. LAKE HAVASU SIZE: 33 square miles LOCATION: Just outside of Lake Havasu City, on the border between Arizona and California. BEST KNOWN FOR: London Bridge nearby (yes, it’s the original London Bridge, moved across the pond from England brick by brick and completed in 1971). Millions visit this uberpopular lake each year. WHAT TO DO THERE: Boating, fishing (bass, catfish, trout, and more), swimming, and water skiing. Famous for house boating and spring break as well.
LAKE PLEASANT SIZE: 10,000 acres (it’s huge!) LOCATION: Peoria, about 30 miles north of Phoenix, in both Maricopa and Yavapai counties. (Another close watering hole for Phoenix residents, Lake Pleasant is perfect for a quick trip.) BEST KNOWN FOR: Being Arizona’s second largest lake; fun fact: when first created in the 1920s, its dam (Waddel Dam) was the largest agricultural dam of its kind (a new dam was built in 1992 and the old one is now covered under 100 feet of water in the lake). WHAT TO DO THERE: Swimming, water skiing, jet skiing, sailing, and other water sports, as well as fishing. LAKE POWELL SIZE: 186 miles long (it’s the second largest man-made reservoir in the United States), with more shoreline than the West Coast of the USA. LOCATION: Straddles the borders of Arizona and Utah, near Page. BEST KNOWN FOR: Can you say scenery? The crystal blue water and red-rock
canyons are unforgettable; also, Rainbow Bridge National Monument, the world’s longest natural bridge, which is accessible by boat. Stunning Horseshoe Bend (as seen on cover) is located just downstream. WHAT TO DO THERE: Swimming, fishing, water skiing, hiking, and scuba diving. Perhaps best known for spectacular house boating. MORMON LAKE SIZE: 600 acres (when full) LOCATION: 29 miles southeast of Flagstaff BEST KNOWN FOR: Being Arizona’s largest natural lake; also, for the abundant wildlife nearby (think elk, eagles, and antelope!); sometimes,
it shrinks in size and can even dry up completely during drought. WHAT TO DO THERE: Boating, fishing (sunfish, catfish, and more), windsurfing, picnicking, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. WOODS CANYON LAKE SIZE: 52 acres LOCATION: Within the ApacheSitgreaves National Forest, about 30 miles east of Payson. BEST KNOWN FOR: Trout! Plus, its setting amidst Ponderosa pines, oaks, aspens, and Douglas firs, along the Mogollon Rim. WHAT TO DO THERE: Boating and fishing (Rainbow and Brown trout abound).
Tuna Tartare Ingredients: 3 oz. first-grade Ahi tuna 2 oz. Atlantic salmon filet 1/4 cup fresh avocado, sliced 1 Tbs. fresh tomato, diced Juice from 1/2 lemon 2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil 2 Tbs. teriyaki glaze 1/4 oz. fresh chives Salt & pepper 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Local Flavor!
Mothers Day Brunch Phoenix Zoo, May 9th 602.273.1341 or phoenixzoo.org Looking for a way to tell Mom that you’re just “wild about her”? How about a unique Mothers Day experience at the zoo? Enjoy a gourmet catered lunch and some quality time with Mom as you stroll around the zoo checking in on your favorite wildlife. Brunch is served from 11-1, but your admission includes all-day access to the zoo.
Our state is blessed with some of the best and most scenic lakes in the country. Whether you want to go for a cool swim, try your skill at waterskiing, or you’re more interested in angling, check out these Arizona oases.
Featuring Bice Bistro Westgate City Center • Glendale • 623.877.4760 or biceglendale.com
Preparation: Dice the tuna and salmon and place in mixing bowl. Add the diced tomato, lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper. Drizzle the teriyaki glaze on a plate. In a round mold, layer the avocado, the tartare, sliced onion and garnish with fresh chives. Set atop plate and remove ring mold to serve.
JEN SHEEDY
Your Valley Neighbor & Realtor As a proud resident of the Valley, I share our love and appreciation of our unique area. In fact, I grew up among the sunshine and cacti that make our desert city a wonderful home. Today, I continue my love of the area as an involved mother, community activist, and real estate agent. As a real estate specialist in our neighborhood, I have the knowledge and experience to aid you in any real
Mobile: 602.502.6600 Office: 480.686.9899 jdana@cox.net
estate transaction. Selling? Turn to me for comprehensive market data: What’s selling, what’s not, and how to price your home properly. My marketing program is a proven component to your success. Let me tell you why. Buying? With intimate knowledge of the properties for sale in our area, I often know of fantastic values before they even hit the market. Moving up? Sizing down? Have a friend or family member that wants to make the Valley their home too? I’m here to help!
www.JenSheedy.com If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.
Produced by Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996 • www.DesertLifestyle.net