AZHO Holland

Arizona Homeowner August / 2009

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!

Solid Housing News Continues To Surprise Happy late summer! It’s hard to believe that it is late summer given the temperatures this time of year. But technically we’re starting to turn the corner to fall.

The Metro Phoenix market continues to churn out impressive housing numbers.

For those keeping score, over 8,000 homes sold in April, 9,280 homes sold in May, and 9,348 homes sold in June.

And as I’ve said in the past, there was a point in time in 2008 when we went 3-4 months before selling a cumulative total of 9,000 homes. We’ve certainly come along way. I feel that the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit has a lot to do with the strong surge in housing numbers. As does the fact that home prices and interest rates have fallen to levels not seen since 2004/2005. It is indeed a good time to buy a home in our market. And the impressive housing numbers are echoing that sentiment.

In keeping with this upbeat news, it appears the national press has also been impressed by our region’s strong housing numbers. A recent Forbes.com article sighted that Phoenix was

one of the best cities to buy a home. “While the majority of the nation’s housing markets are still working toward a bottom, some cities are boasting fundamentals that make them good places to buy a home now.” In addition to Phoenix, the article also sighted Los Angeles, Denver, Boston and San Diego.

(The full article can be accessed online at www.forbes.com).

On a final note I wanted to mention some exciting mortgage news for the fall. People with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans are currently able to refinance to a lower rate as long as their first mortgage is not more then 105% of the home’s appraised value.

However, in the fall the program will be expanded to allow some people to refinance if their first mortgage is not more then 125% of the home’s appraised value. We will start taking applications under the new rules in September. Please give me a call to see if you are eligible to lower your rate and payment under the new rules.

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.

• First-time home buyers are eligible for up to an $8K tax credit for buying and closing on a home by 12/1/09. That’s free money if you buy a home by the deadline!

• If you are behind on your mortgage payments the government has offered incentives to lenders to modify your loan so that the interest and payment is lower. (We do not offer loan modifications but would be happy to offer free advice on how you can get help.)

• 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.)

Brady Holland President 480.627.2423 bradyh@ihlending.com www.ihlending.com

MORTGAGE RATES AS OF 7/13/09 Loan Rates for $150K-$417K

30-Year Fixed at 4.875%/5.126% APR 15-Year Fixed at 4.375%/4.539% APR

Loan Rates for $418K-$1.5M

5/1 ARM at 4.625%/4.872% APR 7/1 ARM at 4.875%/5.102% APR

*Note: Quotes assume primary home financing with 680+ FICO score on a single-family property with 20%-30% equity.

All quotes offered with 1% origination fee. Certain restrictions apply.

MB0905347 If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.

Produced by Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996

relax • rejuvenate • recharge Valley Spas Offer Refuge & Respite

home maintenance schedule A Guide To Caring For Your Abode

bliss by the spoonful

Morton’s Double Chocolate Mousse

Event Calendar

August 2009

Spiked Desert Botanical Garden, Aug. 13th 480.941.1225 or dbg.org It’s a summer vacation, without having to go far from home.

Spiked brings you a different beach destination each month this summer, with August’s beach theme as Arctic Beach. For your entertainment, DJs D.K. Strickler and Rani G. will be spinning the hits all evening long. Dance your way over to the bar and try the delicious cocktail showcased for the evening, the Mudslide!

Eddie Griffin Tempe Improv, Aug. 14th-15th 480.921.9877 or tempeimprov.com You may have seen Eddie in one of his many comedic and dramatic movie rules such as Date Movie, John Q. and Armageddon. Now here is your chance to see his live comedy that started it all. His quick wit and hilarious topics will keep you laughing through the entire show. You don’t want to miss this special appearance.

Arizona Opera Film Series: La Boheme Phoenix Art Museum, Aug. 23rd 602.257.1222 or phxart.org The Arizona Opera is teaming up with the Phoenix Art Museum this summer to bring you three great films that directly relate to their 09-10 opera season. La Boheme is the tale of 19th century bohemians who are rich in life and friendship, but poor on funds. The love between poet Rodolfo and seamstress Mimi is captivating! This famous opera is what inspired the ever popular musical Rent.

Celebrity Waiter Night Morton’s, Aug. 24th 480.951.4440 or mortons.com What a dream come true for all you sports fans. Not only will you get the opportunity to meet some of the Arizona Cardinals such as Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald, but they will be serving your dinner too! Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception with silent auction followed by a fabulous four-course meal. This wonderful evening is in support of the Carol Fitzgerald Memorial Fund, Larry Fitzgerald’s personal charity. This program raises money for urban education, breast cancer and HIV/AIDS awareness.

Arizona Cardinals vs. Green Bay Packers University of Phoenix Stadium, Aug. 28th 623.433.7100 or azcardinals.com Can’t get enough of our Cardinals? Get a sneak peak at the 2009-2010 team during their pre-season games. Check out the newcomers and the veterans and see if they have what it takes to make it all the way to the Super Bowl again! If you have not been to the University of Phoenix stadium before, this is a great time to.

The stadium is a state-of-the-art facility with two large retractable panels for the roof and over 63,000 seats. Go Cards!

CARING FOR YOUR CASTLE Considering your home is probably your largest asset, keeping it in tip-top condition is critical. Whether you plan to spend your golden years there or have hopes of a future sale, keeping your home well maintained lessens the burden of future repair costs, reduces possible problems with potential buyers and keeps things running smoothly and safely.

We all have good intentions. The problem is what to do, when to do it and remembering to do it. Use this brief guide as a starting point for planning routine maintenance on your home.

FALL INTO WINTER Winter in the desert brings mild daytime temperatures and sometimes frost at night. With so much of our time enjoyed outside, insure that your home and yard is ready for the season.

• Chimney – hire a professional to clean before using. Often birds roost there in the spring and summer and can cause a hazard with falling debris in your chimney. Remember to close the flue when not in use to save on energy costs.

• Heating system – hire a technician to inspect and tune-up your system.

• Garage – lubricate and adjust latches, hinges, locks and bolts.

• Screens – replace any worn or torn screens. This is the time of year that windows are left open and screens are more important than ever.

• Windows – check for complete closure.

• Landscaping – adjust watering schedules. Many homeowners forget this important step and overwater this time of year, damaging plants and wasting water.

• Spa – now is the time to perform maintenance on the heating element. Check that jets are unclogged and in good working order.

SPRING INTO SUMMER The relentless summer sun of the Arizona desert can cause havoc on homes. Prepare your property for the season and act to reduce energy costs as well.

• Air conditioning system – don’t wait until the first heat blast to have your units inspected and tuned up.

Hire a reputable contractor to make sure your system is up to the job.

• Exterior paint – if you haven’t painted in more than five years, start touching up and consider a complete repainting.

• Doors and windows – our dry air can cause cracking in caulking and weather-stripping, so start repairing or replacing now.

• Roof – check for missing or damaged shingles or tiles. As our Monsoon season approaches, many roofs will begin to fail due to heavy rains.

• Windows – check for complete closure and that the seal on dual-paned windows is working properly.

• Landscaping – check that your irrigation/drip system is working properly. Adjust watering schedules, replace or repair broken sprinkler heads and plant flora that is drought-resistant and thrives in full sun.

• Pool – make sure your pump and vacuum are working properly. Clean the pool filter and replace the diatomaceous earth if applicable.

MONTHLY • Trees and shrubs – trim away from roof and house.

• Filters – clean or replace all filters.

• Air handlers – clean out all dust.

• Smoke detectors – insure they are in proper working order.

• Clothes dryer – clean vent duct and damper.

• Basic cleaning – give the house a good “once over” to lessen the harmful effects of dirt and dust.

SEMIANNUALLY • Security system and fire extinguishers – are they in working order?

• Refrigerators/freezers – clean grilles, empty drip pans, defrost freezer.

• Clothes dryer – check hose for replacement.

• Clothes washer – check for small water leaks.

• Tubs and sinks – inspect caulking and make repairs.

• Hot water tank – check for sediment and drain as necessary.

• Faucets and hoses – check for leaks.

Your Home

The Scottsdale-Phoenix area has one of the highest concentrations of spas in the U.S. Arizona’s natural beauty of mountains, plateaus, cactus and succulent plants provides a dramatic setting for some of the best resorts around the globe. An hour, a day, a week (if you’re lucky) at one of these luxurious spa destinations and tranquility is yours for the taking.

Most spas allow you to participate in other activities when you book a treatment. Make a day of it and enjoy exercise classes, steam and sauna, pool and whirlpool. If you can go midweek you may get a discount and you’ll avoid the crowds.

THE CENTRE FOR WELL-BEING at The Phoenician 480.423.2452 • thephoenician.com This 22,000 square-foot mecca includes 24 private treatment rooms, a private consultation room, weight training and cardiovascular studios, a Waters Bar, a full-service salon and a Meditation Atrium (as seen on the cover). This summer, indulge in one of their $99 treatments such as the Face the Day – a mango-infused facial and scalp massage. Ahh!

THE GOLDEN DOOR SPA at The Boulders 480.595.3500 • theboulders.com The desert environment brings special ingredients to the proven treatments of well-being at this transformative retreat. For only $25, restore and revitalize on a Shamanic journey through the labyrinth and relax in the healing space of the Tipi guided in meditation by a Shamanic Healer. For $260, spend 80 minutes in a Shamanic healing session for renewed energy and spirit.

THE JOYA SPA at the Intercontinental Montelucia 480.627.3200 • joyaspa.com This summer travel back thousands of years to the deserts of Morocco with Joya Spa’s specially priced Summer Menu of treatments. Enjoy Arizona’s only authentic Hammam, a luxurious bathing ritual. Other delights include a zero-gravity pedicure chair, in-tune vibrating massage table and stateof-the-art fitness equipment. Every Thursday from 4 – 7 p.m. women around town party with a shampoo, conditioning treatment, blow-dry, petite manicure and martini – all for only $40.

FOUR SEASONS SCOTTSDALE at Troon North 480.513.5145 • fourseasons.com/scottsdale Experience the ultimate in elegance and service Four Seasons-style, but with a Southwestern flair nestled high in the foothills of Pinnacle Peak. At this pinnacle of luxury indulge in their Pinnacle Facial and treat your back, hands, feet, face and overall spirit for $310 of 110 minutes of bliss. Also $310 - Head over Heels, 50 minutes of two therapists performing the ultimate in relaxation and revitalization.

SANCTUARY SPA at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 480.607.2326 • sanctuaryoncamelback.com Escape to another land at this intimate oasis of Asian-inspired treatments. For some peace and quiet, book the Sanctum and hide away in the stone-walled privacy of a vitality pool and deluge shower. For $150, understand your body’s imbalances with a bio-energetic biofeedback treatment. Or for $125, enjoy a foot/ leg exfoliation and Thai reflexology with the Sabai Foot Ritual.

WILLOW STREAM SPA at the Fairmont Scottsdale 480.585.2732 • fairmont.com/scottsdale Get back to the basics of nature inspired by a hidden oasis in the Grand Canyon called Havasupai. Traveling solo, get any signature treatment for $159+ and enjoy a free express mani, pedi, facial or massage. With a group, reconnect with friends with the SoSpa Party also from $159+. Enjoy multiple treatments, a special VIP gathering space, bento box lunches and take home gifts.

Spa Etiquette BE ON TIME – means 15 - 20 minutes early. If late, expect a shortened treatment.

NO VALUABLES – leave at home or in the property’s safe.

GENDER SPECIFIC – request in advance if you have a preference in a therapist.

ANY ISSUES – discuss medical conditions when booking an appointment.

DON’T BE SHY – voice your preferences: lighting, temp, clothes on or off.

NO KIDS, PETS, SMOKING, PERFUME – let everyone enjoy their experience.

TURN OFF THE OUTSIDE – switch your cell phone to vibrate upon arrival.

SHH – speak softly.

THROW IT AWAY – respect the environment and fellow spa-goers.

TIP on TIPS – 20% or more per service is appropriate.

CANCEL CONSIDERATELY – if you can’t make it, let them know well in advance.

Double Chocolate Mousse

Local Flavor!

Jazz Attack Celebrity Theatre, Aug. 7th 602.267.1600 or celebritytheatre.com If jazz is your passion, Jazz Attack is right up your alley. These three jazz connoisseurs, Rich Braun, Jonathan Butler and Richard Elliot, join forces to bring you a sensational show. Their unique styles of eclectic and smooth jazz combine to make quite a musical experience.

Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups heavy cream 6 oz. semisweet or bittersweet dark chocolate, chopped 1 Tbsp. plus 11/2 tsp. unsweetened cocoa powder

Featuring Morton’s Kierland Commons | Scottsdale • 480.951.4440 The Esplanade | Phoenix • 602.955.9577 mortons.com

1/2 cup egg whites (from 3 to 4 large eggs) 1/8 tsp. cream of tartar 1/8 tsp. salt 1/4 cup sugar whipped cream, for serving

Preparation: In a saucepan, bring 3/4 cup of the cream to a boil over medium-high heat. Put the chocolate and cocoa in a heat-proof glass bowl and pour the hot cream over them. Let the mixture stand for about 1 minute and then whisk until blended. Be sure to break up any clumps of the cocoa.

Set aside at room temperature for about 45 minutes, whisking occasionally to keep the mixture smooth. The chocolate needs to cool to 80°F. In a chilled, dry bowl beat the egg whites on high speed for 10 to 20 seconds or until they begin to foam. Add the cream of tartar and salt and beat for about 1 minute longer or until soft peaks form.

Sprinkle the sugar over the whites and continue to beat for 1 to 2 minutes longer or until the peaks are stiff but not dry.

Fold the whites into the cooled chocolate (make sure it’s no warmer than 80°F before adding the whites).

Pour the remaining heavy cream into the bowl of the mixer and beat on high speed for about 2 minutes or until soft peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Event Calendar

August 2009

Spiked Desert Botanical Garden, Aug. 13th 480.941.1225 or dbg.org It’s a summer vacation, without having to go far from home.

Spiked brings you a different beach destination each month this summer, with August’s beach theme as Arctic Beach. For your entertainment, DJs D.K. Strickler and Rani G. will be spinning the hits all evening long. Dance your way over to the bar and try the delicious cocktail showcased for the evening, the Mudslide!

Eddie Griffin Tempe Improv, Aug. 14th-15th 480.921.9877 or tempeimprov.com You may have seen Eddie in one of his many comedic and dramatic movie rules such as Date Movie, John Q. and Armageddon. Now here is your chance to see his live comedy that started it all. His quick wit and hilarious topics will keep you laughing through the entire show. You don’t want to miss this special appearance.

Arizona Opera Film Series: La Boheme Phoenix Art Museum, Aug. 23rd 602.257.1222 or phxart.org The Arizona Opera is teaming up with the Phoenix Art Museum this summer to bring you three great films that directly relate to their 09-10 opera season. La Boheme is the tale of 19th century bohemians who are rich in life and friendship, but poor on funds. The love between poet Rodolfo and seamstress Mimi is captivating! This famous opera is what inspired the ever popular musical Rent.

Celebrity Waiter Night Morton’s, Aug. 24th 480.951.4440 or mortons.com What a dream come true for all you sports fans. Not only will you get the opportunity to meet some of the Arizona Cardinals such as Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald, but they will be serving your dinner too! Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception with silent auction followed by a fabulous four-course meal. This wonderful evening is in support of the Carol Fitzgerald Memorial Fund, Larry Fitzgerald’s personal charity. This program raises money for urban education, breast cancer and HIV/AIDS awareness.

Arizona Cardinals vs. Green Bay Packers University of Phoenix Stadium, Aug. 28th 623.433.7100 or azcardinals.com Can’t get enough of our Cardinals? Get a sneak peak at the 2009-2010 team during their pre-season games. Check out the newcomers and the veterans and see if they have what it takes to make it all the way to the Super Bowl again! If you have not been to the University of Phoenix stadium before, this is a great time to.

The stadium is a state-of-the-art facility with two large retractable panels for the roof and over 63,000 seats. Go Cards!

CARING FOR YOUR CASTLE Considering your home is probably your largest asset, keeping it in tip-top condition is critical. Whether you plan to spend your golden years there or have hopes of a future sale, keeping your home well maintained lessens the burden of future repair costs, reduces possible problems with potential buyers and keeps things running smoothly and safely.

We all have good intentions. The problem is what to do, when to do it and remembering to do it. Use this brief guide as a starting point for planning routine maintenance on your home.

FALL INTO WINTER Winter in the desert brings mild daytime temperatures and sometimes frost at night. With so much of our time enjoyed outside, insure that your home and yard is ready for the season.

• Chimney – hire a professional to clean before using. Often birds roost there in the spring and summer and can cause a hazard with falling debris in your chimney. Remember to close the flue when not in use to save on energy costs.

• Heating system – hire a technician to inspect and tune-up your system.

• Garage – lubricate and adjust latches, hinges, locks and bolts.

• Screens – replace any worn or torn screens. This is the time of year that windows are left open and screens are more important than ever.

• Windows – check for complete closure.

• Landscaping – adjust watering schedules. Many homeowners forget this important step and overwater this time of year, damaging plants and wasting water.

• Spa – now is the time to perform maintenance on the heating element. Check that jets are unclogged and in good working order.

SPRING INTO SUMMER The relentless summer sun of the Arizona desert can cause havoc on homes. Prepare your property for the season and act to reduce energy costs as well.

• Air conditioning system – don’t wait until the first heat blast to have your units inspected and tuned up.

Hire a reputable contractor to make sure your system is up to the job.

• Exterior paint – if you haven’t painted in more than five years, start touching up and consider a complete repainting.

• Doors and windows – our dry air can cause cracking in caulking and weather-stripping, so start repairing or replacing now.

• Roof – check for missing or damaged shingles or tiles. As our Monsoon season approaches, many roofs will begin to fail due to heavy rains.

• Windows – check for complete closure and that the seal on dual-paned windows is working properly.

• Landscaping – check that your irrigation/drip system is working properly. Adjust watering schedules, replace or repair broken sprinkler heads and plant flora that is drought-resistant and thrives in full sun.

• Pool – make sure your pump and vacuum are working properly. Clean the pool filter and replace the diatomaceous earth if applicable.

MONTHLY • Trees and shrubs – trim away from roof and house.

• Filters – clean or replace all filters.

• Air handlers – clean out all dust.

• Smoke detectors – insure they are in proper working order.

• Clothes dryer – clean vent duct and damper.

• Basic cleaning – give the house a good “once over” to lessen the harmful effects of dirt and dust.

SEMIANNUALLY • Security system and fire extinguishers – are they in working order?

• Refrigerators/freezers – clean grilles, empty drip pans, defrost freezer.

• Clothes dryer – check hose for replacement.

• Clothes washer – check for small water leaks.

• Tubs and sinks – inspect caulking and make repairs.

• Hot water tank – check for sediment and drain as necessary.

• Faucets and hoses – check for leaks.

Your Home

The Scottsdale-Phoenix area has one of the highest concentrations of spas in the U.S. Arizona’s natural beauty of mountains, plateaus, cactus and succulent plants provides a dramatic setting for some of the best resorts around the globe. An hour, a day, a week (if you’re lucky) at one of these luxurious spa destinations and tranquility is yours for the taking.

Most spas allow you to participate in other activities when you book a treatment. Make a day of it and enjoy exercise classes, steam and sauna, pool and whirlpool. If you can go midweek you may get a discount and you’ll avoid the crowds.

THE CENTRE FOR WELL-BEING at The Phoenician 480.423.2452 • thephoenician.com This 22,000 square-foot mecca includes 24 private treatment rooms, a private consultation room, weight training and cardiovascular studios, a Waters Bar, a full-service salon and a Meditation Atrium (as seen on the cover). This summer, indulge in one of their $99 treatments such as the Face the Day – a mango-infused facial and scalp massage. Ahh!

THE GOLDEN DOOR SPA at The Boulders 480.595.3500 • theboulders.com The desert environment brings special ingredients to the proven treatments of well-being at this transformative retreat. For only $25, restore and revitalize on a Shamanic journey through the labyrinth and relax in the healing space of the Tipi guided in meditation by a Shamanic Healer. For $260, spend 80 minutes in a Shamanic healing session for renewed energy and spirit.

THE JOYA SPA at the Intercontinental Montelucia 480.627.3200 • joyaspa.com This summer travel back thousands of years to the deserts of Morocco with Joya Spa’s specially priced Summer Menu of treatments. Enjoy Arizona’s only authentic Hammam, a luxurious bathing ritual. Other delights include a zero-gravity pedicure chair, in-tune vibrating massage table and stateof-the-art fitness equipment. Every Thursday from 4 – 7 p.m. women around town party with a shampoo, conditioning treatment, blow-dry, petite manicure and martini – all for only $40.

FOUR SEASONS SCOTTSDALE at Troon North 480.513.5145 • fourseasons.com/scottsdale Experience the ultimate in elegance and service Four Seasons-style, but with a Southwestern flair nestled high in the foothills of Pinnacle Peak. At this pinnacle of luxury indulge in their Pinnacle Facial and treat your back, hands, feet, face and overall spirit for $310 of 110 minutes of bliss. Also $310 - Head over Heels, 50 minutes of two therapists performing the ultimate in relaxation and revitalization.

SANCTUARY SPA at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 480.607.2326 • sanctuaryoncamelback.com Escape to another land at this intimate oasis of Asian-inspired treatments. For some peace and quiet, book the Sanctum and hide away in the stone-walled privacy of a vitality pool and deluge shower. For $150, understand your body’s imbalances with a bio-energetic biofeedback treatment. Or for $125, enjoy a foot/ leg exfoliation and Thai reflexology with the Sabai Foot Ritual.

WILLOW STREAM SPA at the Fairmont Scottsdale 480.585.2732 • fairmont.com/scottsdale Get back to the basics of nature inspired by a hidden oasis in the Grand Canyon called Havasupai. Traveling solo, get any signature treatment for $159+ and enjoy a free express mani, pedi, facial or massage. With a group, reconnect with friends with the SoSpa Party also from $159+. Enjoy multiple treatments, a special VIP gathering space, bento box lunches and take home gifts.

Spa Etiquette BE ON TIME – means 15 - 20 minutes early. If late, expect a shortened treatment.

NO VALUABLES – leave at home or in the property’s safe.

GENDER SPECIFIC – request in advance if you have a preference in a therapist.

ANY ISSUES – discuss medical conditions when booking an appointment.

DON’T BE SHY – voice your preferences: lighting, temp, clothes on or off.

NO KIDS, PETS, SMOKING, PERFUME – let everyone enjoy their experience.

TURN OFF THE OUTSIDE – switch your cell phone to vibrate upon arrival.

SHH – speak softly.

THROW IT AWAY – respect the environment and fellow spa-goers.

TIP on TIPS – 20% or more per service is appropriate.

CANCEL CONSIDERATELY – if you can’t make it, let them know well in advance.

Double Chocolate Mousse

Local Flavor!

Jazz Attack Celebrity Theatre, Aug. 7th 602.267.1600 or celebritytheatre.com If jazz is your passion, Jazz Attack is right up your alley. These three jazz connoisseurs, Rich Braun, Jonathan Butler and Richard Elliot, join forces to bring you a sensational show. Their unique styles of eclectic and smooth jazz combine to make quite a musical experience.

Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups heavy cream 6 oz. semisweet or bittersweet dark chocolate, chopped 1 Tbsp. plus 11/2 tsp. unsweetened cocoa powder

Featuring Morton’s Kierland Commons | Scottsdale • 480.951.4440 The Esplanade | Phoenix • 602.955.9577 mortons.com

1/2 cup egg whites (from 3 to 4 large eggs) 1/8 tsp. cream of tartar 1/8 tsp. salt 1/4 cup sugar whipped cream, for serving

Preparation: In a saucepan, bring 3/4 cup of the cream to a boil over medium-high heat. Put the chocolate and cocoa in a heat-proof glass bowl and pour the hot cream over them. Let the mixture stand for about 1 minute and then whisk until blended. Be sure to break up any clumps of the cocoa.

Set aside at room temperature for about 45 minutes, whisking occasionally to keep the mixture smooth. The chocolate needs to cool to 80°F. In a chilled, dry bowl beat the egg whites on high speed for 10 to 20 seconds or until they begin to foam. Add the cream of tartar and salt and beat for about 1 minute longer or until soft peaks form.

Sprinkle the sugar over the whites and continue to beat for 1 to 2 minutes longer or until the peaks are stiff but not dry.

Fold the whites into the cooled chocolate (make sure it’s no warmer than 80°F before adding the whites).

Pour the remaining heavy cream into the bowl of the mixer and beat on high speed for about 2 minutes or until soft peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Arizona Homeowner August / 2009

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!

Solid Housing News Continues To Surprise Happy late summer! It’s hard to believe that it is late summer given the temperatures this time of year. But technically we’re starting to turn the corner to fall.

The Metro Phoenix market continues to churn out impressive housing numbers.

For those keeping score, over 8,000 homes sold in April, 9,280 homes sold in May, and 9,348 homes sold in June.

And as I’ve said in the past, there was a point in time in 2008 when we went 3-4 months before selling a cumulative total of 9,000 homes. We’ve certainly come along way. I feel that the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit has a lot to do with the strong surge in housing numbers. As does the fact that home prices and interest rates have fallen to levels not seen since 2004/2005. It is indeed a good time to buy a home in our market. And the impressive housing numbers are echoing that sentiment.

In keeping with this upbeat news, it appears the national press has also been impressed by our region’s strong housing numbers. A recent Forbes.com article sighted that Phoenix was

one of the best cities to buy a home. “While the majority of the nation’s housing markets are still working toward a bottom, some cities are boasting fundamentals that make them good places to buy a home now.” In addition to Phoenix, the article also sighted Los Angeles, Denver, Boston and San Diego.

(The full article can be accessed online at www.forbes.com).

On a final note I wanted to mention some exciting mortgage news for the fall. People with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans are currently able to refinance to a lower rate as long as their first mortgage is not more then 105% of the home’s appraised value.

However, in the fall the program will be expanded to allow some people to refinance if their first mortgage is not more then 125% of the home’s appraised value. We will start taking applications under the new rules in September. Please give me a call to see if you are eligible to lower your rate and payment under the new rules.

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.

• First-time home buyers are eligible for up to an $8K tax credit for buying and closing on a home by 12/1/09. That’s free money if you buy a home by the deadline!

• If you are behind on your mortgage payments the government has offered incentives to lenders to modify your loan so that the interest and payment is lower. (We do not offer loan modifications but would be happy to offer free advice on how you can get help.)

• 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.)

Brady Holland President 480.627.2423 bradyh@ihlending.com www.ihlending.com

MORTGAGE RATES AS OF 7/13/09 Loan Rates for $150K-$417K

30-Year Fixed at 4.875%/5.126% APR 15-Year Fixed at 4.375%/4.539% APR

Loan Rates for $418K-$1.5M

5/1 ARM at 4.625%/4.872% APR 7/1 ARM at 4.875%/5.102% APR

*Note: Quotes assume primary home financing with 680+ FICO score on a single-family property with 20%-30% equity.

All quotes offered with 1% origination fee. Certain restrictions apply.

MB0905347 If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.

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