Fall in love with Arizona | February 2024

editor letter fromthe

Dear readers,

I'm thrilled to present the inaugural issue of our magazine, Fall in Love with Arizona As editor-in-chief, it brings me immense joy to share captivating stories and insights about this beautiful state

A heartfelt thank you to our readers for joining us on this journey. Without your support, these pages would remain blank. I hope the articles within provide you inspiration to explore new corners of Arizona, from bustling cities to charming small towns.

Kudos to our outstanding editorial team for bringing their A-game and dedication to each piece. It's their creativity and passion that shaped this issue from concept to publication. I cannot wait to see what they dream up for our next edition.

Looking ahead, we will continue highlighting hidden gems across Arizona to showcase all that makes it such a special place to live and visit. This is just the beginning, with even more stunning photography, engaging profiles, and expert tips to come.

I'm honored and excited to take this leap with you, our readers Let's fall in love with Arizona together, one story at a time

With gratitude,

YvonneMcFadden

Editor-in-Chief

ContributingWriters

arizona adventure BeginYour

A Relocation Guide for New Residents

Selecting the Ideal Arizona Community

Arizona is home to a diverse range of communities, from bustling metropolitan cities to cozy rural towns and everything in between Choosing the right place to put down roots depends on your lifestyle, priorities and personal preferences

If you crave big city amenities like world-class dining, arts, and nightlife, Phoenix and Tucson both fit the bill Phoenix is hot and arid, while Tucson offers slightly cooler temps.

With its abundance of sunshine and natural wonders, Arizona continues to attract new residents each year looking to embrace the active outdoor lifestyle this sunny state offers.

By Yvonne McFadden

But before diving in headfirst, it's important to understand everything from Arizona's climate and topography to taxes and cost of living. This guide will explore key factors to weigh when planting new roots in the Grand Canyon State From choosing the right neighborhood to adapting to desert life, read on to learn the key steps for a smooth transition to your new southwestern home

Outdoorsy types may prefer living in Sedona, known for its red rock vistas, hiking trails and new age vibe. The Verde Valley northeast of Phoenix also provides access to forests, rivers and lakes.

Those seeking fun in the sun gravitate towards Scottsdale for top resorts and golf courses. Beach vibes await in Tempe along the shores of Tempe Town Lake.

Quirky artistic towns like Bisbee and Jerome offer a lively community of creatives and history buffs.

Whether you seek a diverse job market, great schools, retirement living, or a launching pad for outdoor adventure, there's an Arizona community tailored to your priorities Weigh factors like climate, amenities and activities to select your ideal match

Preparing for Arizona's Dry, Hot Climate

"Quirky artistic towns like Bisbee and Jerome offer a lively community of creatives and history buffs".

Arizona is famous for its sunshine-filled days and dry heat While the ample sunshine provides a perfect climate for activities like golfing and hiking during cooler months, Arizona summers can be extremely hot

Understanding Arizona's arid climate will help you prepare Make sure your new home has quality air conditioning that can handle the summer swelters Install ceiling fans and blackout shades to keep rooms cool. Plan outdoor activities like hiking for early mornings or evenings during the summer. Always pack extra water - hydration is key in the low humidity.

It also helps to adjust expectations coming from more humid regions. Dry heat above 100°F can still feel hot, but sweat evaporates quickly without the sticky discomfort of humidity. Schedule outdoor time strategically, dress in breathable fabrics, and reapply sunscreen often.

Arid conditions also means monsoon storms can appear suddenly from July to September. When ominous clouds billow upward, seek shelter indoors to wait out frequent lightning and heavy downpours. The upside is that the parched landscape will spring to life with flowers after the rains.

Embrace breezy patios, sunset cocktails by the pool, and the ubiquitous air conditioning. With the right preparations, you'll not only survive but thrive in Arizona's iconic sunny, dry and hot climate.

Making the move to Arizona soon? Tap into my knowledge as a longtime resident to ensure your relocation goes smoothly. With insider tips on choosing the perfect neighborhood, preparing your home for desert life, adjusting to the climate, and more, I can guide you through every step of the transition.

Take the stress out of relocating and start your Arizona adventure on the right foot. Contact me today to ask any questions you have about making Arizona your new home I'm always happy to share my on-the-ground expertise with newcomers to this beautiful state

Let's chat! Reach out by phone or email so we can begin your Arizona relocation journey:

Yvonne “Jett” McFadden

DeLex Realty

(480) 628-2619

jypllcaz@gmail.com

I look forward to helping you find your perfect spot under the Arizona sun!

lot for sale

$880,000

Desert Mountain Sunrise Village ready to build on this acre lot, that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This lot offers views of the Renegade Golf Course, as well as panoramic views of the city and nearby mountains. Desert Mountain is renowned for its committmentto preserving the natural beauty of the area, and each village is carefully designerd to build harmoniously with the desert landscape. The community is also known for its top notch security measures and a range of services and amenities that cater to the needs and preferences of its residents. Overall Desert Mountain has established itself as one of the most prestigious master planned communities in the Vally of the Sun, offering an exceptional quality of life and an unparralled living experience for the resident Come build your amazing custom home. Call for builders names

37862N97thPl#257A

Price: $880,000

Type: Lots/Land

MLS ID: 6626981

County: Maricopa

Lot Size (Acres): 1

Lot Size (Sq. Ft.): 43,560

Lot Dimensions: 66 x 660

Frontage: Private Street

Yvonne

Arizona Housing Market Trends and Forecast for 2024

By Yvonne McFadden

Amid stories of cooling markets across the country, Arizona real estate continues charting a strong course thanks to insatiable demand driven by rapid population growth. As more residents flock to the Grand Canyon State for its red-hot job market, affordability relative to other destinations, and enviable quality of life, housing inventory struggles to keep pace. This combination of scarcity amid some of the hottest buyer demand in the nation spells good news for Arizona’s 2024 housing outlook.

Both single-family homes and multifamily complexes stand poised to appreciate at among the fastest rates nationwide this year, even if at a slightly more moderate pace than the frenzied peak pandemic years The median home price in Greater Phoenix has already eclipsed $500,000, with most experts projecting values will continue rising given extremely limited supply and no signs of demand slowing down

In this article, we analyze key market factors impacting Arizona’s real estate economy in 2024 Drawing on expert forecasts and supporting data, we explain why the state’s housing industry should sustain strong momentum even as markets like California and New York tap the brakes For those looking to buy, sell or invest in Arizona real estate over the next year, understanding where market conditions are headed will help inform smart decisions.

Chasing Arizona Dreams: Where the sun meets serenity, and every dip is a refreshing escape

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Photo taken from Canva 2

"So as long as people and capital continue pouring into the Grand Canyon State, especially metro Phoenix, home values and multifamily investment will keep rising ... "

SUSTAINED POPULATION GROWTH FUELING DEMAND

Arizona has consistently ranked among the fastest growing states in America, with much of the population growth concentrated in Phoenix and surrounding cities The Grand Canyon state’s population exploded by over 16% between 2010-2020 according to Census data And projections from the W.P. Carey School of Business indicates Arizona is on pace to lead the nation in percentage population growth once again through 2030.

This sustained population boom creates a tailwind for Arizona’s housing demand, as over 130,000 people per year move into the state. Increased migration from more expensive coastal states like California, robust international immigration, and strong natural growth via births over deaths all lift metro Phoenix population higher every year. As the Valley’s population marches steadily toward 5 million residents, housing demand grows in lockstep while inventory and development struggle to keep up

Over the next year, Arizona is projected to tack on another 130,000+ newcomers as remote work and low costs of living entice more families This non-stop influx of new residents seeking housing will sustain heavy demand across price points, favoring sellers and investors for the foreseeable future as the market struggles to absorb this population surge.

So as long as people and capital continue pouring into the Grand Canyon State, especially metro Phoenix, home values and multifamily investment will keep rising thanks to a fundamental demand imbalance. Arizona real estate appears poised to withstand national slowdowns.

INVENTORY SHORTAGES PERSISTING DESPITE NEW CONSTRUCTION

Arizona closed out 2022 with alarmingly low housing inventory, and market analysts expect stock to remain highly constrained through 2024 even as builders work furiously to bring new products online. At the end of last year, total active listings in Phoenix stood around 5,000 homes for sale. This represents less than a one month supply, compared to the 6-month inventory needed for a balanced market.

ISuch drastic undersupply persists despite homebuilders filing more permits in 2022 than any other year since 2006 before the housing crash Construction crews broke ground on over 50,000 new homes across Maricopa and Pinal counties But supply still lags demand by over 100,000 units, contributing to bidding wars and inflated sale prices.

Experts believe the inventory crisis may ease slightly in 2023 as tens of thousands of permitted units are delivered. But they caution that demand metrics remain so overheated that any new listings get snatched up in days or weeks, preventing meaningful inventory growth. An ongoing shortage of construction workers, certain building materials, and finished lots could also constrain supply increases.

While more cranes dot the metro Phoenix skyline than in years past, Arizona is essentially running just to stand still as breakneck population growth overwhelms new housing additions This persistent supplydemand mismatch risks extended pricing pressure absent a demand slowdown.

HOME PRICES AND VALUES

CONTINUING TO CLIMB

On the heels of two years of incredible home price appreciation during the pandemic - including Phoenix metro's median sales price leaping from $317K to over $500K - projections call for values to keep rising in 2023 albeit at a slower pace. Per the latest forecasts, home prices in Arizona are expected to increase approximately 5-7% over the next year

Multiple housing agencies and economic organizations release in-depth forecasts each year predicting Arizona's home pricing trends Selections from a few of the most trusted outlooks for 2023 include:

The W P Carey School of Business at ASU predicts metro Phoenix home prices to rise 6 4% in 2023 based on underlying market conditions and historical patterns They forecast the median single-family home will reach $530,000.

Zillow’s housing data analytics point to Arizona home values appreciating 5.8% this year to a typical home value around $413K for the state overall.

Realtor.com also released a 6.3% expected home price growth figure for Phoenix, expecting the median to hit $522K.

So while 2023 home values are unlikely to take the quantum leaps observed over the past two years, buyers and owners can still expect healthy high single-digit returns on their real estate investments. And sustained population pressures coupled with constraints on new construction make it improbable area home prices will materially decline without demand falling off suddenly.

STRONG RENTAL MARKET ACROSS METRO PHOENIX

Arizona's soaring home prices have spilled over into an exceptionally strong rental market across Phoenix and nearby cities, leading multifamily assets to become prime real estate investment targets. As buying a house grows increasingly out of reach for many area residents, demand for apartments and single-family rentals surges.

Phoenix rents grew over 25% in 2022, more than double the national average. Occupancy rates across the Valley remain above 95% with waiting lists commonplace. This heavy demand combines with ultra-low vacancy to drive rapid rent growth, now the fifth-highest appreciation rate among major US metros.

While some analysts expect rent growth to moderate slightly this year, projections still call for double-digit annualized increases across Phoenix Redfin designated Phoenix as having the best rental market for investment, thanks to high rents and incomes that leave plenty of tenant spending room before hitting unaffordability

From downtown high-rises to suburban garden complexes, the Phoenix rental market provides investors outstanding risk-adjusted returns Combine double-digit cash flow growth with very limited construction bringing new luxury inventory to market, and multifamily assets should yield excellent value. Both institutional investors and individuals buying rental homes can capitalize on tenant demand that continues outpacing new housing additions.

Arizona's housing market continues showing resilience and potential in 2023 amid changing conditions nationally. But navigating the local dynamics requires expert guidance so you can capitalize on opportunities while avoiding risk.

With over a decade of in-depth experience buying, selling, and investing in Arizona real estate, I have the insights and network to help position you for success this year Whether you're looking to sell your Phoenixarea home for top dollar while inventory remains low, find hidden gem neighborhoods ahead of value jumps, or invest in multi-family amid surging demand, I can craft a custom strategy aligned to your goals

My repeat clients and sterling industry reputation speak to how I partner with everyone from first-time homebuyers to real estate developers to optimize their next move. I blend cutting-edge market analytics with old-fashioned commitment to outstanding service - a proven formula to maximize value from Arizona's sustained boom.

Don't leave money on the table or miss your dream home; Arizona's 2023 housing market moves fast but I move faster. Let's connect today to map out your real estate vision and bring it to life.

Yvonne “Jett” McFadden

DeLex Realty

(480) 628-2619

jypllcaz@gmail com

I look forward to helping you find your perfect spot under the Arizona sun!

LUXURIOUS

Experience unparalleled luxury resort living in this nearly-new, lightly-used home (built 2019) on the best lot in gated White Horse. Camelot Homes is Arizona's ''Most Awarded Luxury Homebuilder'', & White Horse won prestigious awards for innovation in indoor/outdoor living. Set back in the community on an elevated lot with mountain views, this is truly an oasis in the desert. A front courtyard with manicured desert landscaping leads to an impressive entry.

The great room is masterfully built with movable glass walls on two opposing sides, creating a magical open concept where front courtyard, great room, & back courtyard converge effortlessly into one breathless vision. French Country wide plank flooring throughout brings warmth & charm. Incredible chef's kitchen offers requisite (MORE) appliances (Wolf & Sub Zero), 2 dishwashers & one of the largest most fabulous kitchen islands imaginable. In addition to the great room which offers multiple entertaining/dining areas, there is perfection in the master suite, a family room/game room/playroom, office (with ensuite), & 2 secondary bedrooms (both ensuites). No interior steps. Backyard offers stunning pool with sun shelf, mountain views, privacy, & artificial grass for easy maintenance. Perfectly located within Scottsdale's most desirable zip code of 85255, White Horse is 3 minutes to the Marketplace at DC Ranch (a lovely retail/dining/shopping experience), 3 minutes to AJs/CVS/Starbucks, 5 minutes to the 101 Freeway, 10 minutes to Scottsdale Quarter.

Subdivision:

Year

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms:

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By Yvonne McFadden Photography from Canva

Arizona's Hidden Gem of Natural Beauty and Small Town Charm

Nestled in the Sonoran Desert just north of Scottsdale lies the quaint town of Carefree, Arizona.

Though it is located mere minutes from the hustle and bustle of Phoenix, stepping into Carefree truly feels like entering a whole different world As you drive down the town's main street, you'll be greeted by locally-owned shops, cozy restaurants, and streets lined with lush desert landscaping Surrounded by the Tonto National Forest and scenic desert foothills, Carefree exudes a palpable sense of peace and tranquility

This community of under 4,000 residents has mastered the art of slow living Spend your days hiking the town's numerous wilderness trails, browsing art galleries and antique shops, or simply relaxing under one of Carefree's covered patios with a glass of local wine as you take in the beautiful desert views. Though it flies under the radar for many visitors to Arizona, make sure not to overlook this hidden gem that offers access to nature, small town charm, and a taste of the Old West lifestyle.

"The town's architecture and locallyowned shops reinforce its unique vibe. Wander in and out of antique stores, boutiques, art galleries, and Southwestern home decor shops dotted along Easy Street."

Outdoor Recreation Abounds in Carefree's Natural Landscapes

Nestled against the scenic foothills of Black Mountain, Carefree provides ample opportunities to enjoy the beauty and adventure of the outdoors. The town borders the Tonto National Forest, where you can hike trails through diverse desert terrain and observe a variety of wildlife. For an easier nature walk, try the short but scenic Carefree Desert Gardens trail right in town.

Horseback riding is also a popular activity, with several outfitters offering guided trail rides and sunset rides with unforgettable desert views. For the more daring, rent ATVs and zoom over to the Hieroglyphic Mountains or Four Peaks for an off-road adventure Before heading home, stop by one of Carefree's lookout points off Tom Darlington Drive to take in a sweeping sunset vista of the Sonoran Desert

Embrace the Quirky Small Town Vibe Life in Carefree moves at a slower pace, with the friendly community always up for celebrating their Southwestern culture and scenic surroundings. On weekends, you'll find live music and entertainment at the local sandwich shop and saloon. Cowboy festivals, wine tastings, art walks, and holiday parades add to the charm.

The town's architecture and locallyowned shops reinforce its unique vibe Wander in and out of antique stores, boutiques, art galleries, and Southwestern home decor shops dotted along Easy Street Many buildings incorporate artistic details like handpainted murals and rusted metal sidings made from old mining equipment. Grab a bite to eat on one of the shaded patios and take a moment to chat with the friendly ownerschances are, one of them will have some historical tidbits or insider tips to share about life in this beloved desert community.

Captivated by the natural beauty and small town charm of Carefree? This hidden gem in the desert could be your new home base for adventure and relaxation.

As a Scottsdale area real estate agent, I can help make your Arizona dream a reality. My in-depth knowledge of the local market will ensure you find the perfect home or investment property to match your needs and budget.

Whether you're seeking a family home near top-rated schools or a vacation getaway to escape the winter cold, I have the expertise to guide you through every step of the home buying or selling process Trust me to handle negotiations, paperwork, and everything in between - all you need to focus on is picturing yourself in your new Arizona oasis.

Don't wait to embrace the Carefree lifestyle. Contact me today to get started on finding your ideal property in this beautiful desert community. I look forward to helping you write your own chapter in Arizona living!

5 reasons

By Yvonne McFadden Photography from Canva

To Buy Your Next Home In Scottsdale, Arizona

With its rugged desert beauty, vibrant downtown scene, and abundance of golf courses and resorts, Scottsdale has long been a popular destination. But it has also recently emerged as a top real estate market for those looking to buy their next home. Boasting a strong local economy, excellent schools, and an enviable quality of life, there are many attractive reasons to consider putting down roots in Scottsdale.

In this article, we cover five of the most compelling factors that make Scottsdale stand out as a superb place to purchase property and settle in the Valley of the Sun From its near-perfect weather and multitude of recreational activities to its low taxes and stable housing market, Scottsdale checks off many boxes that homebuyers desire Keep reading to learn more about why you should buy your next home amid the beautiful Sonoran Desert vistas and bustling energy of Scottsdale, Arizona.

average, Scottsdale s gloriously warm climate lends itself perfectly to outdoor living in the desert. Very little rainfall and low humidity mean you can comfortably spend most of your days outdoors enjoying Scottsdale’s natural scenery an

The sunny weather allows Sco residents to eat meals al fresco restaurants year-round. Hike giant saguaro cacti blooming w flowers. Spend afternoons gol vibrant green courses backed rust-colored mountains. Or re at one of Scottsdale’s many lu and hotels even during cooler months when much of the cou under snow

The mild winters see daytime in the upper 60s on average, w summers are made manageab humidity and ubiquitous air c With so much gorgeous weath opportunities for outdoor recr matter the season, it’s no won has emerged as such a desirab settle down under the Valley o near-endless blue skies.

, b , j include high-end tourism and hospitality, healthcare, aviation and aerospace, financial and business services, and cutting-edge technologies.

Scottsdale is sometimes referred to as the “Tourism Capital of Arizona” thanks to its dozens of luxury resorts, scores of top-tier golf courses, art galleries, high-end shopping, and award-winning restaurants. This bustling tourism industry accounts for over 50,000 local jobs. The healthcare sector also continues its rapid growth in Scottsdale, with the Mayo Clinic anchoring new facilities and hospital expansions that bring additional medical jobs every year.

Corporate headquarters like Discount Tire, GoDaddy, and Axon have chosen Scottsdale for their global HQs as well. With economic diversity across key sectors, affordable housing compared to salaries, and major employers like these leading companies calling Scottsdale home, it’s no surprise that Scottsdale offers such an attractive environment for career and financial success.

TOP-RANKED SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION

Families moving to Scottsdale can rest assured knowing their children will have access to some of the top-ranked public schools in Arizona. The Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) is routinely considered one of the best districts in the state for academics, test scores, and quality of education.

SUSD operates 23 elementary schools, 7 middle schools, and 5 high schools, many of which have been recognized by US News & World Report, Newsweek, and Niche for their excellent academics. For example, Chaparral High School and Desert Mountain High School are ranked among the top 5% of high schools nationally by these authorities

With a graduation rate exceeding 90% year after year and over 75% of SUSD high school students attending two or fouryear colleges, parents can feel confident enrolling their kids in Scottsdale public schools This exceptional system helps make Scottsdale an ideal locale for families who prioritize education and college preparedness in a district with proven results across all grade levels

Between future-focused curriculum embracing STEM skills, dedicated teachers and staff, and a community that generously supports funding education, Scottsdale schools help create well-rounded graduates equipped to excel at top universities. 24

AFFORDABLE LUXURY IN THE HOUSING MARKET

Given its ideal climate, economic strength, and exceptional quality of life, Scottsdale real estate has understandably grown more expensive over the years. Yet Scottsdale still remains an affordable option for luxury homebuyers compared to other luxury markets.

While the median home price in Scottsdale is now over $500,000, this buys spacious single-family homes with pools, upgraded amenities, and access to top-ranked schools. Move up to the luxury market between $1-2 million and find stunning million-dollar homes situated on large, private lots and exclusive neighborhoods across Scottsdale

From luxury villas in DC Ranch to custom estates nestled amid the desert foothills, Scottsdale delivers luxury living environments on par with Beverly Hills or Miami for half the price Upscale communities like Silverleaf and Desert Mountain feature multi-million dollar homes regularly selling for 40-50% less than comparable California communities.

Scottsdale also holds its real estate value exceptionally well thanks to high demand from buyers combined with limited land supply amid the mountains ringing Scottsdale. This makes buying a luxury home in Scottsdale a smart investment in one of America’s most stable housing markets, while enjoying a luxury lifestyle for less.

LOW TAXES AND OVERALL AFFORDABILITY

Arizona is well-known for having a very favorable tax structure for its residents, and Scottsdale even more so with larger incomes and advanced services across the city. There is no state tax on wages and salaries. Cost of living remains quite reasonable, especially in the housing market with ultra-premium luxury properties still cheaper than equally desirable areas in places like California and Florida. Combined with sunshine, recreational amenities, great schools and infrastructure, Scottsdale checks off all key affordability measures for relocators.

With savings on income taxes alone and housing prices that are lower than expected compared to other cities with Scottsdale's luxury profile, families keep more of their hard-earned money to put toward their lifestyle. This ability to stretch dollars further to fund the Scottsdale lifestyle of choice is part of what attracts new buyers locally and from other high-tax states.

As a top-ranked luxury market nationally with one of the most affordable tax and cost-of-living profiles anywhere, Scottsdale represents an enviable sweet spot for those who desire the finer things without overspending. With savings on expenses plus abundant amenities, you simply get more for your money living in Scottsdale, Arizona.

So if you seek affordable luxury living blessed by nearly year-round sun, endless amenities, and smart money management, then look no further than calling beautiful Scottsdale your family’s new home For personalized assistance with finding your perfect Scottsdale property or relocating here, reach out to Yvonne McFadden with Delex Realty She specializes in helping clients just like you make Scottsdale their next chapter for luxury living with lasting value and savings You’ll be glad you discovered why Scottsdale can’t be beat for superb affordability and quality of life