Fountain Hills Oct 09

Featured Property

October 2009

15515 E. FireRock Country Club Dr. 7 FireRock | 0.87 acre | $500,000

Unlimited 360-Degree City Light, Golf Course & Mountain Views!

Stand on this lot and see all the way to downtown Phoenix! These striking views, coupled with this amazing price, are unsurpassed.

Design your unique custom residence on this piece of heaven!

Take advantage of the 30-degree sloped lot which allows for a walk-out design promoting views from every room! Imagine roaming in a luxurious 7700 SF, 5 car garage masterpiece with this as your backdrop! It doesn’t get any better than this!

A FAVORABLE TREND IS EMERGING! When you take a look at this month and last month’s report, you’ll see a VERY encouraging number of pending sales and closed sales in our Fountain Hills luxury communities.

The market is slowly making a recovery and we’re just now hitting “season” when most of the Fountain Hills real estate transactions occur. I’m expecting this upswing in our housing market to continue right through without a hitch, most likely picking up steam in the next six months.

As homeowners in luxury, gated communities, you are to be commended on your choice of property and its ability to hold value better than luxury homes in non-gated areas of Fountain Hills. Of the 42 luxury home sales in 2009, all but two were within gated communities. Buyers today have a vast choice with many terrific homes and values to choose from. It appears that they’re voting with their wallets, and your communities are the winners!

I am in touch with numerous buyers looking for a property in these upscale communities. If you are considering selling, please call me first. I don’t believe in putting your home on MLS and “wishing for the best.” I am a proactive agent and will use my extensive resources and client list to go searching for a buyer for you. Now that’s great service!

SUSAN PELLEGRINI 480.287.5200 Office 480.315.1575 Mobile 877.276.1071 Toll Free Susan@Pellegrini.com

WWW.PELLEGRINI.COM

A COLLECTION OF NEWLY LISTED PROPERTIES AND RECENT SALES IN Address Subdivision Lot Size or

Sq.Ft./Bed/Bath ACTIVE LISTINGS 9516 N. Desert Wash Trl. 6 FireRock 0.49 acres 9115 N. Fireridge Trl. 19 FireRock 0.81 acres 15333 E. FireRock Country Club Dr. 3 FireRock 1.52 acres 15515 E. FireRock Country Club Dr. 7 FireRock 0.87 acres 10204 N. Fire Canyon 17 FireRock 0.78 acres 9704 N. Hidden Canyon Ct. FireRock 5893 / 6 / 5.5 10539 N. Villa Ridge Ct. FireRock 3100 / 3 / 3 13018 N. Fire Canyon Trl. FireRock 4765 / 3 / 3.5 9917 N. Palisades Blvd.

FireRock 6632 / 4 / 4.5 10126 N. Palisades Blvd.

FireRock 5530 / 4 / 5.5 9225 N. Lava Bluff Trl. FireRock 5932 / 4 / 4.5 10220 N. Palisades Blvd.

FireRock 6381 / 4 / 4.5 11207 N. Viento Ct. 94 Crestview 3.15 acres 10637 N. Arista Ln. Crestview 6450 / 5 / 4.5 10430 N. Crestview Dr. Crestview 4416 / 4 / 4.5 14230 E. Coyote Ct. 38 Eagles Nest 1.06 acres 13859 E. Coyote Way 55 Eagles Nest 1.08 acres 14250 E. Morning Dove Dr. 80 Eagles Nest 2.01 acres 14527 E. Prairie Dog Trl. 10 Eagles Nest 1.49 acres 14317 E. Zorra Way Eagles Nest 5233 / 4 / 4.5 16410 N. Borrego Trl. Eagles Nest 6055 / 5 / 4.5 14617 E. Gecko Ct. SunRidge Canyon 5016 / 3 / 4.5 15117 E. Camelview Dr. Eagle Mountain NA / 5 / 4.5 9834 N. Jagged Cir. Eagle Mountain 4506 / 5 / 4.5 PENDING SALES 9840 N. Palisades Blvd. 10 FireRock 0.42 acres 15905 E. Villas Dr. 101B FireRock 2922 / 3 / 3 9103 N. Fireridge Trl. FireRock 3800 / 3 / 3 9828 N. Fireridge Trl. FireRock 5055 / 4 / 4.5 9222 N. Fireridge Trl. FireRock 4593 / 3 / 4.5 9132 N. Shadow Ridge Trl. FireRock 5354 / 5 / 5.5 10055 N. Palisades Blvd.

FireRock 6200 / 4 / 5.5 9733 N. Four Peaks Way FireRock 9200 / 5 / 7 10842 N. Arista Ln. Crestview 5073 / 5 / 3.5 11409 N. Crestview Dr. Crestview 7175 / 5 / 5.5 147 E. Big Horn Pkwy Eagles Nest 1.57 acres SOLD 10120 N. McDowell View Trl. 18 FireRock 0.79 acres 9647 N. Copper Ridge Trl. FireRock 5865 / 4 / 3.5 15814 E. Quail Point Pl. FireRock 6300 / 4 / 6 14212 E. Paloma Ct. Eagles Nest 4200 / 4 / 4 9415 N. Solitude Cyn. Eagle Mountain 4002 / 5 / 4.5 9714 N. Jagged Cir. Eagle Mountain 6376 / 5 / 6.5

List Price

$267,900 $319,000 $499,000 $500,000 $549,000 $780,000 $924,900 $1,200,000 $1,999,000 $1,999,999 $2,599,000 $3,200,000 $475,000 $1,799,000 $999,999 $250,000 $275,000 $325,000 $385,000 $854,900 $3,600,000 $1,719,000 $1,495,000 $1,397,000 $299,000 $775,000 $1,095,000 $1,100,000 $1,190,000 $1,200,000 $1,386,000 $2,595,000 $1,520,000 $2,300,000 $330,000 SOLD PRICE $210,952 $900,000 $1,210,000 $825,000 $935,000 $2,125,772

Listings in bold/blue signify The Pellegrini Group’s involvement in the listing or sale.

All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

The properties on this list have been listed/sold by various participants in the MLS. If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.

Produced by Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996

ISSN-1939-9529

Selling Your Home?

Getting an Accurate Appraisal

Performing Arts Preview Season Highlights

Duck Three Ways

Wright’s at the Biltmore’s Signature Dish Fountain Hills’

Hot Real Estate Listings

The excitement builds as the Valley’s season begins again, filled with incredible productions and world-class performances. With dozens of venues to choose from, veterans and newcomers to the arts scenes will not be disappointed. For a complete listing of the Valley’s 2009/2010 offerings, go to phoenix.gov/ARTS/artlinks.

We hope to tease you below with some highlights of the best around town.

Featuring Wright’s at the Arizona Biltmore 2400 E. Missouri Avenue • Phoenix 602.381.7632 or arizonabiltmore.com

• Ib Andersen’s PLAY, May 14-16 • Balanchine Classics, Jun. 11-13

DUCK THREE WAYS

Roasted Duck Breast, Caramelized Foie Gras, Confit Phyllo Cigars and Diced Mission Fig Reduction

THE PHOENIX SYMPHONY

Ingredients: 2 Muscovy Duck Breasts 8 oz. Duck Confit (recipe follows) 2 each Sheets of Phyllo Dough 1 each Napa Cabbage 8 oz. Foie Gras 1/2 Granny Smith Apple, julienned 1 oz. Toasted Pistachio Nuts, ground into a dust 4 oz. Fig Demi (recipe follows) 1 each Medium Shallot 2 each Garlic Cloves 2 oz. Chopped Herbs (Thyme, Parsley, Chives) 1 cup Balsamic Citrus Glaze (recipe follows) 6 each Dried Figs 3 Tbsp. Melted Butter Salt and Pepper

ARIZONA OPERA

Now in its 39th season, this passionate company led by Artistic Director Joel Revzen and Executive Director Debra Harrison brings to Phoenix Symphony Hall five grand operas each season. azopera.com or 602.255.7464 • Cosi fan tutte, Oct. 23-25 • Salome, Nov. 20-22 • La boheme, Jan. 29-31 • A Concert of Signature Arias, Mar. 12-14 • The Barber of Seville, April 23-25

Procedure: Preheat oven to 365 degrees. Heat a heavy-bottom pan over medium heat. Once the oven is heated, place cigars on a slightly greased pan in the oven for 10 minutes. Season and sear the duck breast in pan for about five minutes on skin side and four minutes on flesh side (for medium rare). Remove and brush with balsamic glaze. While resting, season and sear foie gras in the same pan as the duck. Sear one minute on each side. Slice the duck breast very thin and toss the apples with salt and pepper, extra virgin olive oil and herbs. Place fig demi on plate followed by the cigars (two each). Tower the apples and duck slices on top of the cigars and sprinkle the dish with the ground toasted pistachio.

Duck Confit: Season two duck breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.

Cover with vegetable oil in a four-inch deep small pan. Wrap with foil and bake for 2 1/2 hours at 300 degrees. Remove from oil and cool to about room temperature. Shred duck with a fork and allow to cool in fridge completely.

Fig Demi: Soak figs in a little red wine for about 45 minutes. Cut figs into quarters and place in one cup of reduced veal (or beef) stock with 3 oz. of the red wine.

Reduce until sauce coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Cigars: Use half the Napa cabbage and julienne. Lightly sauté with garlic and shallots. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and fold in two tablespoons of chopped herbs and pistachio grounds. Allow to cool. Brush phyllo sheets with melted butter.

Tightly roll duck mix in the sheets of phyllo into a cigar shape.

Brush roll with more butter and cut into 1 1/2” pieces.

Balsamic Citrus Glaze: 1 Cup Balsamic Vinegar 1/2 Cup Orange Juice 4 Tbsp. Spicy Mustard Reduce balsamic and orange juice until syrup consistency.

Whisk in mustard and leave at room temperature.

ARIZONA THEATER COMPANY

Recognized in its 42nd season as one of the most dynamic theaters in the country, ATC thrills the Valley with its national reputation for outstanding performances at the Herberger Theater Center in Phoenix.

arizonatheatercompany.com or 602.256.6995 • The Kite Runner, Oct. 8-25 • George is Dead, Nov. 12-Dec. 6 • Ain’t Misbehavin’, Dec. 30-Jan. 17 • (title of show), Feb. 18-Mar. 7 • The Glass Menagerie, Mar. 2-Apr. 11 • The Second City Does Arizona, Or Close, But No Saguaro, Apr. 29-May 16

BALLET ARIZONA

Ballet Arizona brings innovation to outstanding contemporary and classical ballet performances.

The company brings professional dance to the venerable Phoenix Symphony Hall and the elegant Orpheum Theater. balletarizona.com or 602.381.1096 • Swan Lake, Nov. 5-8 • The Nutcracker, Dec. 11-27 • The Sleeping Beauty, Feb. 11-14 • Classic Innovations, Mar. 26-28

This 76-member orchestra brings more than 300 concerts and presentations to the Valley each year. Choose from a calendar of classical and pops concerts, chamber orchestra performances, and community programs. Below are a few highlights of the year. phoenixsymphony.com or 602.495.1999 for the complete schedule.

• Tchaikovsky’s 5th Symphony, Oct. 15-29 • Nixon in China, Nov. 12-14 • Handel’s Messiah, Dec. 16-19 • Marvin Hamlisch, Jan. 8-10 • Mozart’s Requiem, Mar. 18-21 • Disco Days & Boogie Nights, May 7-9

ASU GAMMAGE

Among the largest university-based performing arts venues in the world, this historic building at Arizona State University reflects the design of world-renowned architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. asugammage.com or 480.965.3434 • Little House on the Prairie, Dec. 8-13

• August: Osage County, Jan. 5-10 • Mary Poppins, Feb. 11-28 • Avenue Q, Mar. 9-14 • The 39 Steps, Apr. 20-25 • In the Heights, Jun. 15-20 • The Phantom of the Opera, Oct. 28-Nov. 22 • Annie, Dec. 29-Jan. 3 • Jesus Christ Superstar, Apr. 6-11 • Naura Chipaumire, Sept. 18 • Kristina Wong: Wong Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Jan. 30 • Keo Woolford: I Land, Mar. 27

SONORAN DESERT CHORALE

A premier community choir in the heart of Phoenix brings diversity and inspiration to the Metropolitan area. Its sophisticated concerts range from ancient folk music to modern compositions. sonorandesertchorale.org or 480.305.4538 • How Can I Keep From Singing?

Oct. 10-11 • Singing Together – A Holiday Tradition, Dec. 12-13 • Song, Go On! Feb. 27-28 • Music of Fame and Fortune – the Stage and Screen, May 1-2

home appraisals:

can you influence the value assessed by an appraiser?

One of the most critical steps in selling your property involves the appraisal. When you have a buyer under contract and the home is set to be appraised, a lower-than-expected value can sabotage the entire transaction.

The Home Valuation Code of Conduct effective May 1, 2009 dramatically changed the appraisal industry, in some cases prohibiting your Realtor or mortgage broker from selecting an appraiser. The appraiser is randomly selected from a list of approved companies.

Unfortunately, this can sometimes cause problems and errors in home values. Often, the appraiser assigned to a property has little or no knowledge of the particular neighborhood, price point or specific attributes of the home.

What about recent foreclosures or distressed sales in your neighborhood? Can those affect your value in an appraisal? Yes, they can, whether it seems fair or not.

So, is there anything a homeowner can do to get the best and most accurate value assessed on their home? According to Jay Josephs, president of Josephs Appraisal Group, listing agents and home sellers CAN play an active role.

APPRAISERS HELD ACCOUNTABLE Don’t expect the appraiser to increase the value of your home of it’s not merited.

Appraisers have a difficult task in today’s market. By most lending standards, they are expected to count foreclosures as comparables, are held highly accountable for the value they assess and there is the tendency to undervalue a home to err on the side of caution. Home appraisers are held to a regulated licensing process. The Federal National Mortgage Association along with HUD enforces guidelines to achieve consistent appraisals.

WHAT CAN A HOME SELLER DO? You can often influence your appraiser by ensuring that the condition of your house, especially floors, ceilings and walls, is tip-top.

Deferred maintenance issues such as damage to drywall, dirty floors and holes in the ceiling will certainly lower the value. Make all repairs before the appraiser sees the home and gather up paperwork on any warranties and home improvement projects. “It is a good idea to cure deficiencies…bring upgrades and condition up to what is standard for a specific area. For example – a twenty-year-old home in Paradise Valley with Formica counters: if granite counters are standard, an investment to improve counters may bring at near or above full cost in the resale market,” says Josephs. He advises providing the appraiser with a list of

repairs, improvements and upgrades not evident at inspection such as green construction, dual pane windows and added insulation.

Similar to buyers, appraisers aren’t immune to first impressions. Having your home “show-ready” with beds made and carpets vacuumed can go a long way. It reflects the care given and the overall condition of the home.

WHO IS APPRAISING YOUR HOME? With the new HVCC (Home Valuation Code of Conduct) rules in effect, you may be assigned an appraiser that really isn’t best suited to assess a value for your home. When the appraiser calls to set up the appointment, ask them what they know about your neighborhood. If they really aren’t familiar with it, its amenities, how it differs from surrounding communities, and the homes themselves; it’s within your right to request a different appraiser.

Your Realtor can advise and help with this.

YOUR REALTOR’S EXPERTISE Be present at the appraisal and, if possible, have your Realtor there as they are most knowledgeable

about the neighborhood. The appraiser may not know that the property down the street that just sold for 30% below market value was severely damaged or had appliances and flooring missing...but your Realtor will.

Letting the appraiser know what upgrades/ improvements your home has that others do not can help them to better understand comparable properties.

Home appraisal is not an exact science.

Essentially it is an opinion about what your home and property are worth. By giving valuable information to your appraiser, and ensuring that your appraiser is competent in your type of property, the goal is to have a true and accurate value assessed to your home – not an unfortunate error.

OCTOBER 2009 Garden Party 2009 | Hemingway: Cuba to Paris Phoenix Art Museum, Oct. 9th 602.257.1222 or phxart.org This outdoor fiesta is in honor of the great author Ernest Hemingway and the influence Cuba and Spain had on his writings. George Wolfe, renowned expert on Mexican and Latin American art, has mounted his newest production which brings to life the dramatic adventures of Hemingway. Afterwards guests can enjoy Latin-inspired cuisine and music.

Proceeds will benefit the Latin American Art Alliance.

Phoenix Walk for PKD Market Street at DC Ranch, Oct. 11th 800.753.2873 or pkdcure.org/phoenixwalk Walk to honor those affected with Polycystic Kidney Disease and raise funds to find a cure. PKD is one of the most common life-threatening genetic diseases and affects 600,000 Americans. Participants can choose between a 1-mile or 5K walk followed by a tented Corporate Expo on The Plaza and live entertainment. Fun for all ages is in store!

U2 360o Tour University of Phoenix Stadium, Oct. 20th 623.433.7100 or universityofphoenixstadium.com Promoting their newly released album, No Line on the Horizon, U2 is putting on a show like no other.

Just as the tour name implies, the band will be performing on an innovative 360o stage. With such hits as I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For, Vertigo and Bloody Sunday, it’s no wonder U2 is tied for the most Grammys won with 22. The Black Eyed Peas take to the stage first, guaranteeing a great start to the show!

Crave Arizona Southbridge Scottsdale Waterfront, Oct. 22nd – 24th 888.946.3277 or cravearizona.com Make your way out to any of the amazing experiences during Crave Arizona’s three-day culinary extravaganza. The event highlights local chefs, artisans, and one-of-a-kind dining experiences found only in Arizona. The schedule includes exquisite dinners, cooking demonstrations, competitions, educational seminars, epicurean adventures and celebrity chef sightings!

Our Colorful World Arizona Science Center, Oct. 24th 602.716.2000 or azscience.org You and your child can explore the world of science hands-on at the Saturday Science classes. Our Colorful World explores just that, the world of color.

Learn what makes a rainbow, why an apple is red or green and explore the properties of light color.

What a great way to make learning fun. Who knows – maybe you will learn something new as well!

Trick or Treat: Halloween with the Symphony Phoenix Symphony, Oct. 31st 602.459.1999 or phoenixsymphony.org Bring out your little boys and ghouls dressed in costume for a day of mischief at the Phoenix Symphony. In the spirit of Halloween the orchestra will delight with an exciting performance to include March of the Little Goblins and The Sorcerers’ Apprentice, best known from the Disney hit Fantasia. This fantastic event is in the afternoon, so you will have plenty of time for trick or treating.

The excitement builds as the Valley’s season begins again, filled with incredible productions and world-class performances. With dozens of venues to choose from, veterans and newcomers to the arts scenes will not be disappointed. For a complete listing of the Valley’s 2009/2010 offerings, go to phoenix.gov/ARTS/artlinks.

We hope to tease you below with some highlights of the best around town.

Featuring Wright’s at the Arizona Biltmore 2400 E. Missouri Avenue • Phoenix 602.381.7632 or arizonabiltmore.com

• Ib Andersen’s PLAY, May 14-16 • Balanchine Classics, Jun. 11-13

DUCK THREE WAYS

Roasted Duck Breast, Caramelized Foie Gras, Confit Phyllo Cigars and Diced Mission Fig Reduction

THE PHOENIX SYMPHONY

Ingredients: 2 Muscovy Duck Breasts 8 oz. Duck Confit (recipe follows) 2 each Sheets of Phyllo Dough 1 each Napa Cabbage 8 oz. Foie Gras 1/2 Granny Smith Apple, julienned 1 oz. Toasted Pistachio Nuts, ground into a dust 4 oz. Fig Demi (recipe follows) 1 each Medium Shallot 2 each Garlic Cloves 2 oz. Chopped Herbs (Thyme, Parsley, Chives) 1 cup Balsamic Citrus Glaze (recipe follows) 6 each Dried Figs 3 Tbsp. Melted Butter Salt and Pepper

ARIZONA OPERA

Now in its 39th season, this passionate company led by Artistic Director Joel Revzen and Executive Director Debra Harrison brings to Phoenix Symphony Hall five grand operas each season. azopera.com or 602.255.7464 • Cosi fan tutte, Oct. 23-25 • Salome, Nov. 20-22 • La boheme, Jan. 29-31 • A Concert of Signature Arias, Mar. 12-14 • The Barber of Seville, April 23-25

Procedure: Preheat oven to 365 degrees. Heat a heavy-bottom pan over medium heat. Once the oven is heated, place cigars on a slightly greased pan in the oven for 10 minutes. Season and sear the duck breast in pan for about five minutes on skin side and four minutes on flesh side (for medium rare). Remove and brush with balsamic glaze. While resting, season and sear foie gras in the same pan as the duck. Sear one minute on each side. Slice the duck breast very thin and toss the apples with salt and pepper, extra virgin olive oil and herbs. Place fig demi on plate followed by the cigars (two each). Tower the apples and duck slices on top of the cigars and sprinkle the dish with the ground toasted pistachio.

Duck Confit: Season two duck breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.

Cover with vegetable oil in a four-inch deep small pan. Wrap with foil and bake for 2 1/2 hours at 300 degrees. Remove from oil and cool to about room temperature. Shred duck with a fork and allow to cool in fridge completely.

Fig Demi: Soak figs in a little red wine for about 45 minutes. Cut figs into quarters and place in one cup of reduced veal (or beef) stock with 3 oz. of the red wine.

Reduce until sauce coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Cigars: Use half the Napa cabbage and julienne. Lightly sauté with garlic and shallots. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and fold in two tablespoons of chopped herbs and pistachio grounds. Allow to cool. Brush phyllo sheets with melted butter.

Tightly roll duck mix in the sheets of phyllo into a cigar shape.

Brush roll with more butter and cut into 1 1/2” pieces.

Balsamic Citrus Glaze: 1 Cup Balsamic Vinegar 1/2 Cup Orange Juice 4 Tbsp. Spicy Mustard Reduce balsamic and orange juice until syrup consistency.

Whisk in mustard and leave at room temperature.

ARIZONA THEATER COMPANY

Recognized in its 42nd season as one of the most dynamic theaters in the country, ATC thrills the Valley with its national reputation for outstanding performances at the Herberger Theater Center in Phoenix.

arizonatheatercompany.com or 602.256.6995 • The Kite Runner, Oct. 8-25 • George is Dead, Nov. 12-Dec. 6 • Ain’t Misbehavin’, Dec. 30-Jan. 17 • (title of show), Feb. 18-Mar. 7 • The Glass Menagerie, Mar. 2-Apr. 11 • The Second City Does Arizona, Or Close, But No Saguaro, Apr. 29-May 16

BALLET ARIZONA

Ballet Arizona brings innovation to outstanding contemporary and classical ballet performances.

The company brings professional dance to the venerable Phoenix Symphony Hall and the elegant Orpheum Theater. balletarizona.com or 602.381.1096 • Swan Lake, Nov. 5-8 • The Nutcracker, Dec. 11-27 • The Sleeping Beauty, Feb. 11-14 • Classic Innovations, Mar. 26-28

This 76-member orchestra brings more than 300 concerts and presentations to the Valley each year. Choose from a calendar of classical and pops concerts, chamber orchestra performances, and community programs. Below are a few highlights of the year. phoenixsymphony.com or 602.495.1999 for the complete schedule.

• Tchaikovsky’s 5th Symphony, Oct. 15-29 • Nixon in China, Nov. 12-14 • Handel’s Messiah, Dec. 16-19 • Marvin Hamlisch, Jan. 8-10 • Mozart’s Requiem, Mar. 18-21 • Disco Days & Boogie Nights, May 7-9

ASU GAMMAGE

Among the largest university-based performing arts venues in the world, this historic building at Arizona State University reflects the design of world-renowned architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. asugammage.com or 480.965.3434 • Little House on the Prairie, Dec. 8-13

• August: Osage County, Jan. 5-10 • Mary Poppins, Feb. 11-28 • Avenue Q, Mar. 9-14 • The 39 Steps, Apr. 20-25 • In the Heights, Jun. 15-20 • The Phantom of the Opera, Oct. 28-Nov. 22 • Annie, Dec. 29-Jan. 3 • Jesus Christ Superstar, Apr. 6-11 • Naura Chipaumire, Sept. 18 • Kristina Wong: Wong Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Jan. 30 • Keo Woolford: I Land, Mar. 27

SONORAN DESERT CHORALE

A premier community choir in the heart of Phoenix brings diversity and inspiration to the Metropolitan area. Its sophisticated concerts range from ancient folk music to modern compositions. sonorandesertchorale.org or 480.305.4538 • How Can I Keep From Singing?

Oct. 10-11 • Singing Together – A Holiday Tradition, Dec. 12-13 • Song, Go On! Feb. 27-28 • Music of Fame and Fortune – the Stage and Screen, May 1-2

home appraisals:

can you influence the value assessed by an appraiser?

One of the most critical steps in selling your property involves the appraisal. When you have a buyer under contract and the home is set to be appraised, a lower-than-expected value can sabotage the entire transaction.

The Home Valuation Code of Conduct effective May 1, 2009 dramatically changed the appraisal industry, in some cases prohibiting your Realtor or mortgage broker from selecting an appraiser. The appraiser is randomly selected from a list of approved companies.

Unfortunately, this can sometimes cause problems and errors in home values. Often, the appraiser assigned to a property has little or no knowledge of the particular neighborhood, price point or specific attributes of the home.

What about recent foreclosures or distressed sales in your neighborhood? Can those affect your value in an appraisal? Yes, they can, whether it seems fair or not.

So, is there anything a homeowner can do to get the best and most accurate value assessed on their home? According to Jay Josephs, president of Josephs Appraisal Group, listing agents and home sellers CAN play an active role.

APPRAISERS HELD ACCOUNTABLE Don’t expect the appraiser to increase the value of your home of it’s not merited.

Appraisers have a difficult task in today’s market. By most lending standards, they are expected to count foreclosures as comparables, are held highly accountable for the value they assess and there is the tendency to undervalue a home to err on the side of caution. Home appraisers are held to a regulated licensing process. The Federal National Mortgage Association along with HUD enforces guidelines to achieve consistent appraisals.

WHAT CAN A HOME SELLER DO? You can often influence your appraiser by ensuring that the condition of your house, especially floors, ceilings and walls, is tip-top.

Deferred maintenance issues such as damage to drywall, dirty floors and holes in the ceiling will certainly lower the value. Make all repairs before the appraiser sees the home and gather up paperwork on any warranties and home improvement projects. “It is a good idea to cure deficiencies…bring upgrades and condition up to what is standard for a specific area. For example – a twenty-year-old home in Paradise Valley with Formica counters: if granite counters are standard, an investment to improve counters may bring at near or above full cost in the resale market,” says Josephs. He advises providing the appraiser with a list of

repairs, improvements and upgrades not evident at inspection such as green construction, dual pane windows and added insulation.

Similar to buyers, appraisers aren’t immune to first impressions. Having your home “show-ready” with beds made and carpets vacuumed can go a long way. It reflects the care given and the overall condition of the home.

WHO IS APPRAISING YOUR HOME? With the new HVCC (Home Valuation Code of Conduct) rules in effect, you may be assigned an appraiser that really isn’t best suited to assess a value for your home. When the appraiser calls to set up the appointment, ask them what they know about your neighborhood. If they really aren’t familiar with it, its amenities, how it differs from surrounding communities, and the homes themselves; it’s within your right to request a different appraiser.

Your Realtor can advise and help with this.

YOUR REALTOR’S EXPERTISE Be present at the appraisal and, if possible, have your Realtor there as they are most knowledgeable

about the neighborhood. The appraiser may not know that the property down the street that just sold for 30% below market value was severely damaged or had appliances and flooring missing...but your Realtor will.

Letting the appraiser know what upgrades/ improvements your home has that others do not can help them to better understand comparable properties.

Home appraisal is not an exact science.

Essentially it is an opinion about what your home and property are worth. By giving valuable information to your appraiser, and ensuring that your appraiser is competent in your type of property, the goal is to have a true and accurate value assessed to your home – not an unfortunate error.

OCTOBER 2009 Garden Party 2009 | Hemingway: Cuba to Paris Phoenix Art Museum, Oct. 9th 602.257.1222 or phxart.org This outdoor fiesta is in honor of the great author Ernest Hemingway and the influence Cuba and Spain had on his writings. George Wolfe, renowned expert on Mexican and Latin American art, has mounted his newest production which brings to life the dramatic adventures of Hemingway. Afterwards guests can enjoy Latin-inspired cuisine and music.

Proceeds will benefit the Latin American Art Alliance.

Phoenix Walk for PKD Market Street at DC Ranch, Oct. 11th 800.753.2873 or pkdcure.org/phoenixwalk Walk to honor those affected with Polycystic Kidney Disease and raise funds to find a cure. PKD is one of the most common life-threatening genetic diseases and affects 600,000 Americans. Participants can choose between a 1-mile or 5K walk followed by a tented Corporate Expo on The Plaza and live entertainment. Fun for all ages is in store!

U2 360o Tour University of Phoenix Stadium, Oct. 20th 623.433.7100 or universityofphoenixstadium.com Promoting their newly released album, No Line on the Horizon, U2 is putting on a show like no other.

Just as the tour name implies, the band will be performing on an innovative 360o stage. With such hits as I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For, Vertigo and Bloody Sunday, it’s no wonder U2 is tied for the most Grammys won with 22. The Black Eyed Peas take to the stage first, guaranteeing a great start to the show!

Crave Arizona Southbridge Scottsdale Waterfront, Oct. 22nd – 24th 888.946.3277 or cravearizona.com Make your way out to any of the amazing experiences during Crave Arizona’s three-day culinary extravaganza. The event highlights local chefs, artisans, and one-of-a-kind dining experiences found only in Arizona. The schedule includes exquisite dinners, cooking demonstrations, competitions, educational seminars, epicurean adventures and celebrity chef sightings!

Our Colorful World Arizona Science Center, Oct. 24th 602.716.2000 or azscience.org You and your child can explore the world of science hands-on at the Saturday Science classes. Our Colorful World explores just that, the world of color.

Learn what makes a rainbow, why an apple is red or green and explore the properties of light color.

What a great way to make learning fun. Who knows – maybe you will learn something new as well!

Trick or Treat: Halloween with the Symphony Phoenix Symphony, Oct. 31st 602.459.1999 or phoenixsymphony.org Bring out your little boys and ghouls dressed in costume for a day of mischief at the Phoenix Symphony. In the spirit of Halloween the orchestra will delight with an exciting performance to include March of the Little Goblins and The Sorcerers’ Apprentice, best known from the Disney hit Fantasia. This fantastic event is in the afternoon, so you will have plenty of time for trick or treating.

Featured Property

October 2009

15515 E. FireRock Country Club Dr. 7 FireRock | 0.87 acre | $500,000

Unlimited 360-Degree City Light, Golf Course & Mountain Views!

Stand on this lot and see all the way to downtown Phoenix! These striking views, coupled with this amazing price, are unsurpassed.

Design your unique custom residence on this piece of heaven!

Take advantage of the 30-degree sloped lot which allows for a walk-out design promoting views from every room! Imagine roaming in a luxurious 7700 SF, 5 car garage masterpiece with this as your backdrop! It doesn’t get any better than this!

A FAVORABLE TREND IS EMERGING! When you take a look at this month and last month’s report, you’ll see a VERY encouraging number of pending sales and closed sales in our Fountain Hills luxury communities.

The market is slowly making a recovery and we’re just now hitting “season” when most of the Fountain Hills real estate transactions occur. I’m expecting this upswing in our housing market to continue right through without a hitch, most likely picking up steam in the next six months.

As homeowners in luxury, gated communities, you are to be commended on your choice of property and its ability to hold value better than luxury homes in non-gated areas of Fountain Hills. Of the 42 luxury home sales in 2009, all but two were within gated communities. Buyers today have a vast choice with many terrific homes and values to choose from. It appears that they’re voting with their wallets, and your communities are the winners!

I am in touch with numerous buyers looking for a property in these upscale communities. If you are considering selling, please call me first. I don’t believe in putting your home on MLS and “wishing for the best.” I am a proactive agent and will use my extensive resources and client list to go searching for a buyer for you. Now that’s great service!

SUSAN PELLEGRINI 480.287.5200 Office 480.315.1575 Mobile 877.276.1071 Toll Free Susan@Pellegrini.com

WWW.PELLEGRINI.COM

A COLLECTION OF NEWLY LISTED PROPERTIES AND RECENT SALES IN Address Subdivision Lot Size or

Sq.Ft./Bed/Bath ACTIVE LISTINGS 9516 N. Desert Wash Trl. 6 FireRock 0.49 acres 9115 N. Fireridge Trl. 19 FireRock 0.81 acres 15333 E. FireRock Country Club Dr. 3 FireRock 1.52 acres 15515 E. FireRock Country Club Dr. 7 FireRock 0.87 acres 10204 N. Fire Canyon 17 FireRock 0.78 acres 9704 N. Hidden Canyon Ct. FireRock 5893 / 6 / 5.5 10539 N. Villa Ridge Ct. FireRock 3100 / 3 / 3 13018 N. Fire Canyon Trl. FireRock 4765 / 3 / 3.5 9917 N. Palisades Blvd.

FireRock 6632 / 4 / 4.5 10126 N. Palisades Blvd.

FireRock 5530 / 4 / 5.5 9225 N. Lava Bluff Trl. FireRock 5932 / 4 / 4.5 10220 N. Palisades Blvd.

FireRock 6381 / 4 / 4.5 11207 N. Viento Ct. 94 Crestview 3.15 acres 10637 N. Arista Ln. Crestview 6450 / 5 / 4.5 10430 N. Crestview Dr. Crestview 4416 / 4 / 4.5 14230 E. Coyote Ct. 38 Eagles Nest 1.06 acres 13859 E. Coyote Way 55 Eagles Nest 1.08 acres 14250 E. Morning Dove Dr. 80 Eagles Nest 2.01 acres 14527 E. Prairie Dog Trl. 10 Eagles Nest 1.49 acres 14317 E. Zorra Way Eagles Nest 5233 / 4 / 4.5 16410 N. Borrego Trl. Eagles Nest 6055 / 5 / 4.5 14617 E. Gecko Ct. SunRidge Canyon 5016 / 3 / 4.5 15117 E. Camelview Dr. Eagle Mountain NA / 5 / 4.5 9834 N. Jagged Cir. Eagle Mountain 4506 / 5 / 4.5 PENDING SALES 9840 N. Palisades Blvd. 10 FireRock 0.42 acres 15905 E. Villas Dr. 101B FireRock 2922 / 3 / 3 9103 N. Fireridge Trl. FireRock 3800 / 3 / 3 9828 N. Fireridge Trl. FireRock 5055 / 4 / 4.5 9222 N. Fireridge Trl. FireRock 4593 / 3 / 4.5 9132 N. Shadow Ridge Trl. FireRock 5354 / 5 / 5.5 10055 N. Palisades Blvd.

FireRock 6200 / 4 / 5.5 9733 N. Four Peaks Way FireRock 9200 / 5 / 7 10842 N. Arista Ln. Crestview 5073 / 5 / 3.5 11409 N. Crestview Dr. Crestview 7175 / 5 / 5.5 147 E. Big Horn Pkwy Eagles Nest 1.57 acres SOLD 10120 N. McDowell View Trl. 18 FireRock 0.79 acres 9647 N. Copper Ridge Trl. FireRock 5865 / 4 / 3.5 15814 E. Quail Point Pl. FireRock 6300 / 4 / 6 14212 E. Paloma Ct. Eagles Nest 4200 / 4 / 4 9415 N. Solitude Cyn. Eagle Mountain 4002 / 5 / 4.5 9714 N. Jagged Cir. Eagle Mountain 6376 / 5 / 6.5

List Price

$267,900 $319,000 $499,000 $500,000 $549,000 $780,000 $924,900 $1,200,000 $1,999,000 $1,999,999 $2,599,000 $3,200,000 $475,000 $1,799,000 $999,999 $250,000 $275,000 $325,000 $385,000 $854,900 $3,600,000 $1,719,000 $1,495,000 $1,397,000 $299,000 $775,000 $1,095,000 $1,100,000 $1,190,000 $1,200,000 $1,386,000 $2,595,000 $1,520,000 $2,300,000 $330,000 SOLD PRICE $210,952 $900,000 $1,210,000 $825,000 $935,000 $2,125,772

Listings in bold/blue signify The Pellegrini Group’s involvement in the listing or sale.

All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

The properties on this list have been listed/sold by various participants in the MLS. If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.

Produced by Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996

ISSN-1939-9529

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