Seeing GREEN!

That's right! Green as in money, green as in golf courses and green as in energy efficient alternatives for desert living! The state of Arizona is going green! Those alternatives are right under our feet. With the cost of energy rising as fast as heat off the desert floor, it only makes sense (cents) to build below ground. Basements are not just for the mid-West anymore they have a significant contribution to make in the Southwest. With land becoming more expensive and less available, builders are starting to notice the value of building down. However, only 20 - 30% of Valley homes utilize this valuable resource. Basements no longer take on the dingy dungeon atmosphere that go with their reputation. Today they are built with 9 foot ceilings, expansive window wells to allow for natural light, outside access complete with patio areas (imagine even a water feature!), exterior private staircase and feature the better-than-being-there home movie theatres. Who wouldn't want a basement? The cost to maintain is minimal and adds valuable square footage. It's easy being GREEN!

What Goes Around Comes Around

"Nice job guys!" as quoted by Yahoo.com in their explanation of what builders, mortgage, and the resale real estate industries have done to flatten the real estate market reputation in the media. They have deflated its value in the economy. It just isn't a quick 'n easy fix 'n flip market as it was a couple of years ago. No instant gratification here! However, let me remind everyone that real estate is the essential safe investment over the long term. Real estate has a consistant cycle. When there is an over-abundance of available houses for sale there will be downward pressure on sales prices. As homes are consumed, competition intensifies for the dwindling reserve thus sending home prices into orbit. More homes are built or dumped back into the market, thus creating an over-abundance, and on it rolls. Simply put, if you understand that, you understand real estate. Those who coordinate buying and selling to best profit from this ever- turning cycle have the greater advantage. My final words, "Rock n' Roll guys!"

Could The World Be Flat?

With summer upon us here in Arizona, like most outdoor enthusiasts, I turn indoors to reshift my priorities into an alternative source of aspiration. I have to admit, I love real estate! I was disappointed this past Sunday when I read the article in the Arizona Republic proclaiming that real estate is flat. I am here to emend that stale term and suggest that it is round! In fact it is so round, it has been known to bounce around all over, depending on the location, price and/or age of property. My experience with real estate in the state of Arizona is that the only constant flat characteristic is that it will change. There is plenty of activity out there. However, this round real estate market does present it's challenges. Please share your triumphs and difficulties to improve the image of our otherwise shapeless real estate market.