Lisa Westcott June 10

Arizona Homeowner June / 2010

Inventive Home Lending 1400 E. Southern Avenue, Suite 615 Tempe, Arizona 85282 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

The financing of your real estate can be a daunting task. You want the best interest rate and you want the pre-approval, application and close of escrow processes to be hassle-free. I understand.

I listen. I respond quickly.

• I specialize in custom-designing a specific loan for each individual client. With over 400 loan programs at my fingertips, you will get a mortgage that best fits your unique situation.

• I use the latest technology in loan underwriting. You’ll receive a loan decision within hours. Don’t wait days to find out if you qualify for the home you really want!

• Closing thousands of

loans and working with

thousands of borrowers

assures you that I have

the knowledge and

expertise to handle

any situation.

• My impeccable reputation is my best

asset. I always strive to exceed your expectations!

CALL ME TODAY!

Help for Homeowners

• Mortgage rates are at a 50-year low. Almost everyone can benefit by either buying a new home or refinancing to a low fixed rate. Call now for a free review of your options.

• The $8,000 first-time homebuyer, and $6,500 repeat homebuyer tax credits had a contract deadline of April 30th that has now passed. Those contracts must be closed by June 30th. There is an exception for Active Military Personnel who have a full year extension on the homebuyer tax credits!

Great news.

• 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.

Mortgage Rates as of 5/7/10

Loan Rates for $150K-$417K: • 30 Year Fixed @ 5.000%/5.309%APR • 15 Year Fixed @ 4.500%/4.879%APR • 5/1 ARM @ 3.875%/4.253% APR

Loan Rates for $418K-$1.5M: Brady Holland President 480.627.2423 bradyh@ihlending.com www.ihlending.com

• 5/1 ARM @ 4.375%/4.672% APR • 7/1 ARM @ 4.750%/5.099% APR *Note: Quotes assume primary home financing with 720+ fico score on a single family property with 20%-30% equity. All quotes offered at 1% origination fee. Certain restrictions apply.

Marketplace News

Home sales have continued to be strong so

far this year. With the tax credit deadline for contracts looming this past April, we saw a surge in activity. The real estate market is technically a “seller’s market” because homes are selling in most areas in less than three months; the majority of those in the $500K and under price range. Most of those sales have been lenderowned or lender short sales. We do know that foreclosures continue to flood the market with new lender-owned properties for sale.

We’ve had nice housing support from the Federal Government since fall 2009 thanks to low interest rates and the homebuyer tax credits. With rates on the rise and the tax credit program ending, the expectations are that home sales activity will soften for a few months.

But from a positive view, homes prices are very affordable and mortgage rates are still at historic lows (see rate chart). Most economists are expecting home sales to have a slowing “hangover effect” from the tax credit buying activity for a few months. And then a solid pace of home buying activity should continue through year end.

And speaking of an end to the recession, we are starting to see lenders relaxing loan guidelines. They would only do this if they felt real estate conditions are improving. We just got back our 5% down Conventional loan program (that was previously 10% down). We are hearing news of new Jumbo loan programs with lower fixed rates and lower down-payment options on the horizon. And there have even been whispers about a self-employed borrower no tax return verification loan coming to market by year end for those with good credit and strong assets.

MB0905347

Produced by Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996 • www.DesertLifestyle.net

Backyard Oases Beckon

roof maintenance

Staying Ahead of the Summer Storms

rookie-proof cuisine

Marcellino’s Simple Salmon Recipe

Event Calendar June 2010 Southern Voice Tour: Tim McGraw Cricket Pavilion, June 3rd 602.245.7200 or cricket-pavilion.com Bring out your boots and cowboy hat for this amazing lineup!

McGraw is sure to entertain the crowd with new hits from his latest album Southern Voices as well as old favorites. The show opens with acts Love and Theft and the hit sensation Lady Antebellum who stole the show at this year’s ACM awards with best album of the year!

Zoo Camp Phoenix Zoo, June 7th 602.273.1341 or phoenixzoo.org Have some animal lovers in the family? Zoo Camp is perfect for children interested in learning more about animals with up-close encounters and hands-on activities. Starting in June each session has a different theme such as Amazing Animals and Home Sweet Home Animal Style where kids will learn all about different animal habitats. Sure to be wildly fun!

Father of the Year Award JW Marriott Camelback Inn, June 10th 602.861.4731 or diabetes.org Not only does this great event honor very special fathers in the community but it raises funds for the American Diabetes Association. The Fathers Day Council in Phoenix hosts a silent auction, reception and fabulous dinner followed by an awards ceremony. This is the 9th year the council has held this event bringing the total funds raised to over $1.3 million.

In the Heights ASU Gammage, June 15th – 20th 480.965.5062 or asugammage.com What started out as a college project, hit the Broadway scene in 2008 with a bang. This fun, upbeat tale takes you on an adventure into a vibrant Manhattan community; a welcoming place where people discover who they are and who they want to be. The musical score encompasses three different generations and the dancing is award-winning.

Tony-Award-winning that is!

Ringling Bros. Circus US Airways Center, June 23rd – 27th 800.745.3000 or ringling.com Relive your childhood memories as you enter the magical world of the Ringling Bros. Watch the trapeze artists fly with the greatest of ease and dazzle at the array of exotic performing animals. Ever wanted to run away and join the circus? Splurge for a more up-close and personal experience and become a “Circus Celebrity,” where you will be ushered on stage to perform with the rest of the clowns and dancers as the crowds cheer you on.

You adore your pool. But what about taking your backyard oasis to the next level?

We’re talking about upping the wow factor for you and your family. Today, pools are more than just places to swim and soak up the sun. Pools in the Valley are backyard escapes, getaways to flee to without leaving your yard. Sound good? Dive in to learn more about how to sweeten up your swimming spot.

It’s summer. Not only does that mean the heat is here, it also means the summer monsoon storms are on the horizon. With all the hot weather and rain, it’s important to keep an eye on your home’s roof. Don’t wait for a leak to appear in your living room because by then the roof damage could be quite extensive. What can you do to be proactive and stay one step ahead of repairs? Read on for some roof remedies.

The first step to maintaining the integrity of your roof is to check that no tree branches are touching it and no debris is on the roof. Many homeowners can clean leaves and branches from their roof and gutters themselves. When it comes to inspecting and repairing roofs, however, it makes sense to hire a roof contractor skilled at walking on high and often fragile roofs. Most experts recommend getting a professional to inspect your roof once or twice annually to stay one step ahead of problems.

Since roof projects can turn into nightmares when not done right, it’s important to choose a licensed roofing specialist. Be sure the contractor has a C-42 (residential roofing) or K-42 (dual license) and that the license is current and in good standing, according to the Arizona Roofing Contractors Association (ARCA), a group which promotes roofing industry development and education. To check a contractor’s license, log onto ARCA’s website at www.azroofing.org. It is actually a criminal offense to contract without a license in the state of Arizona. Don’t mistake hiring a company that quotes a lower price but doesn’t have the proper certification and references—you may end up regretting it.

Once hired, a contractor will inspect your roof, give you a report on its condition and provide an estimate for any necessary repairs. What problems might a contractor find?

Summer monsoons in the Valley often cause wind, rain, and hail damage. High winds can lift edges of roofing materials and possibly even blow some shingles or tiles off. This allows rain to get in, leading to rot and mold problems. Rain and hail damage can be harder to determine until you get up close to the roof to inspect for problems. Our relentless summer heat can also cause some roof materials to deteriorate, especially on areas facing south and west. Another problem common in the Valley is thermal shock. This is when cool rainy periods are followed by high temperatures, causing the roof structure to expand and contract, and possibly buckle and weaken.

In our area, most roofs are constructed of tile. Tile roofs are beautiful and long-lasting, but they are heavy and more expensive than some other roofing materials. Also, the protective water-proof layers underneath the tiles usually need repair long before the tiles do, which means removing and then replacing tiles. Tiles are also easily damaged when walking on them. While inspecting a tile roof, the contractor will look for broken or cracked tiles that will need to be replaced or any openings where water can get in. These areas are often found near chimneys and flashing and will need to be fixed before leaks appear inside your home (look for cracks in the paint and peeling wallpaper as signs of water damage from a leaky roof). Professionals will also check for adequate installation, ventilation, and water-tightness.

Once you know the roof above you is sound and secure you can relax knowing your home is protected and in tip-top shape.

Your Home

Parents listen up! Today’s pools are veritable play lands for tots. For starters, you can add permanent or inflatable water slides to your pool to increase the splash factor. How about multiple slides for maximum enjoyment? You can even build a slide that is completely enclosed until it shoots its swimmer into the pool!

All sorts of pool toys exist—from pool jet skis and motorized bumper boats, to pool basketball and lacrosse nets, and island golf pool games. And what little one wouldn’t think that a sandy beach entrance or “zero entrance” to the pool is the coolest thing around? The fun doesn’t end at the pool edge, however.

Today’s family pool areas often incorporate a splash pad for the little kids.

Just like at your local shopping center or water park, these water spray play areas are ideal for little kids and parents alike because they are loads of fun and don’t need the same level of supervision as the pool. There are companies in the Valley specializing in installing splash pads in residential properties.

Now on to some adult fun. One of the hippest trends in pools in the Valley is the swim-up bar. Perfect for families and couples who love to entertain, these built-in bars are just the thing for steamy hot days when you don’t even want to get out of the pool for a drink or snack. Just like at your favorite swanky hotel pool, residential swim-up bars can include a prep counter, mini-fridge, sink, shelving, etc. With submerged seating, these bars create a luxurious poolscape.

Choices in water features are numerous. Waterfalls and fountains, in all shapes and sizes, make a beautiful scene especially when combined with fire features and colorful lighting. Speaking of waterfalls, how about a swim-through waterfall, one of the neatest water features of all? Or, totally up your cool factor with a waterfall or mist cloud that doubles as your projection screen for the ultimate dive-in movie experience. With enough room, your pool may boast a private grotto or enclosed cave. Be sure to plan it with plenty of seating as you and your guests are sure to linger.

Of course, no cool pool today would be complete without a few of these other amazing features. Don’t forget to jazz up the look of the pool itself, with options ranging from mosaic-style floor designs and pool floor family monograms, to interesting LED lights that make the pool dazzle in the moonlight. Ramadas that match the exterior of your home are perfect shelter for hot Arizona days. Add some stunning outdoor seating, an outdoor flat screen TV designed to withstand the elements and you’ve got the ideal outdoor gathering spot. The finishing touch is a fire pit tucked into a corner near the pool, just the thing for summer evenings filled with fireside chats and toasted marshmallows. Now that’s the perfect “staycation.”

Salmone con Cognac Ingredients:

Local Flavor!

Wine and Beer Tasting Festival The Foothills Golf Club, June 5th 480.270.4365 or folaz.org This annual festival has quickly become one of the premiere social events of the year in the East Valley. Each year more than 1,000 people gather for wine and beer tasting, sampling appetizers from several local restaurants and enjoying live entertainment. There will also be a silent auction featuring more than 100 items, such as dining gift certificates, jewelry and weekend getaways.

Four 6 oz. Fresh Salmon Filets Flour (to dust salmon) 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Cognac Heavy Cream 1 tsp. Whole Pink Peppercorns Salt Preparation: In a large skillet, heat oil on med/high heat. Dust salmon filets with flour and sauté on both sides to desired temperature. Drain

Featuring Marcellino Ristorante 1301 E. Northern Ave. • Phoenix 602.216.0004 or marcellinoristorante.com

most of the oil and add a splash of Cognac, a splash of cream, pink peppercorns and salt to taste. Continue to sauté until sauce thickens slightly. Plate the salmon, drizzle sauce over and serve!

Event Calendar June 2010 Southern Voice Tour: Tim McGraw Cricket Pavilion, June 3rd 602.245.7200 or cricket-pavilion.com Bring out your boots and cowboy hat for this amazing lineup!

McGraw is sure to entertain the crowd with new hits from his latest album Southern Voices as well as old favorites. The show opens with acts Love and Theft and the hit sensation Lady Antebellum who stole the show at this year’s ACM awards with best album of the year!

Zoo Camp Phoenix Zoo, June 7th 602.273.1341 or phoenixzoo.org Have some animal lovers in the family? Zoo Camp is perfect for children interested in learning more about animals with up-close encounters and hands-on activities. Starting in June each session has a different theme such as Amazing Animals and Home Sweet Home Animal Style where kids will learn all about different animal habitats. Sure to be wildly fun!

Father of the Year Award JW Marriott Camelback Inn, June 10th 602.861.4731 or diabetes.org Not only does this great event honor very special fathers in the community but it raises funds for the American Diabetes Association. The Fathers Day Council in Phoenix hosts a silent auction, reception and fabulous dinner followed by an awards ceremony. This is the 9th year the council has held this event bringing the total funds raised to over $1.3 million.

In the Heights ASU Gammage, June 15th – 20th 480.965.5062 or asugammage.com What started out as a college project, hit the Broadway scene in 2008 with a bang. This fun, upbeat tale takes you on an adventure into a vibrant Manhattan community; a welcoming place where people discover who they are and who they want to be. The musical score encompasses three different generations and the dancing is award-winning.

Tony-Award-winning that is!

Ringling Bros. Circus US Airways Center, June 23rd – 27th 800.745.3000 or ringling.com Relive your childhood memories as you enter the magical world of the Ringling Bros. Watch the trapeze artists fly with the greatest of ease and dazzle at the array of exotic performing animals. Ever wanted to run away and join the circus? Splurge for a more up-close and personal experience and become a “Circus Celebrity,” where you will be ushered on stage to perform with the rest of the clowns and dancers as the crowds cheer you on.

You adore your pool. But what about taking your backyard oasis to the next level?

We’re talking about upping the wow factor for you and your family. Today, pools are more than just places to swim and soak up the sun. Pools in the Valley are backyard escapes, getaways to flee to without leaving your yard. Sound good? Dive in to learn more about how to sweeten up your swimming spot.

It’s summer. Not only does that mean the heat is here, it also means the summer monsoon storms are on the horizon. With all the hot weather and rain, it’s important to keep an eye on your home’s roof. Don’t wait for a leak to appear in your living room because by then the roof damage could be quite extensive. What can you do to be proactive and stay one step ahead of repairs? Read on for some roof remedies.

The first step to maintaining the integrity of your roof is to check that no tree branches are touching it and no debris is on the roof. Many homeowners can clean leaves and branches from their roof and gutters themselves. When it comes to inspecting and repairing roofs, however, it makes sense to hire a roof contractor skilled at walking on high and often fragile roofs. Most experts recommend getting a professional to inspect your roof once or twice annually to stay one step ahead of problems.

Since roof projects can turn into nightmares when not done right, it’s important to choose a licensed roofing specialist. Be sure the contractor has a C-42 (residential roofing) or K-42 (dual license) and that the license is current and in good standing, according to the Arizona Roofing Contractors Association (ARCA), a group which promotes roofing industry development and education. To check a contractor’s license, log onto ARCA’s website at www.azroofing.org. It is actually a criminal offense to contract without a license in the state of Arizona. Don’t mistake hiring a company that quotes a lower price but doesn’t have the proper certification and references—you may end up regretting it.

Once hired, a contractor will inspect your roof, give you a report on its condition and provide an estimate for any necessary repairs. What problems might a contractor find?

Summer monsoons in the Valley often cause wind, rain, and hail damage. High winds can lift edges of roofing materials and possibly even blow some shingles or tiles off. This allows rain to get in, leading to rot and mold problems. Rain and hail damage can be harder to determine until you get up close to the roof to inspect for problems. Our relentless summer heat can also cause some roof materials to deteriorate, especially on areas facing south and west. Another problem common in the Valley is thermal shock. This is when cool rainy periods are followed by high temperatures, causing the roof structure to expand and contract, and possibly buckle and weaken.

In our area, most roofs are constructed of tile. Tile roofs are beautiful and long-lasting, but they are heavy and more expensive than some other roofing materials. Also, the protective water-proof layers underneath the tiles usually need repair long before the tiles do, which means removing and then replacing tiles. Tiles are also easily damaged when walking on them. While inspecting a tile roof, the contractor will look for broken or cracked tiles that will need to be replaced or any openings where water can get in. These areas are often found near chimneys and flashing and will need to be fixed before leaks appear inside your home (look for cracks in the paint and peeling wallpaper as signs of water damage from a leaky roof). Professionals will also check for adequate installation, ventilation, and water-tightness.

Once you know the roof above you is sound and secure you can relax knowing your home is protected and in tip-top shape.

Your Home

Parents listen up! Today’s pools are veritable play lands for tots. For starters, you can add permanent or inflatable water slides to your pool to increase the splash factor. How about multiple slides for maximum enjoyment? You can even build a slide that is completely enclosed until it shoots its swimmer into the pool!

All sorts of pool toys exist—from pool jet skis and motorized bumper boats, to pool basketball and lacrosse nets, and island golf pool games. And what little one wouldn’t think that a sandy beach entrance or “zero entrance” to the pool is the coolest thing around? The fun doesn’t end at the pool edge, however.

Today’s family pool areas often incorporate a splash pad for the little kids.

Just like at your local shopping center or water park, these water spray play areas are ideal for little kids and parents alike because they are loads of fun and don’t need the same level of supervision as the pool. There are companies in the Valley specializing in installing splash pads in residential properties.

Now on to some adult fun. One of the hippest trends in pools in the Valley is the swim-up bar. Perfect for families and couples who love to entertain, these built-in bars are just the thing for steamy hot days when you don’t even want to get out of the pool for a drink or snack. Just like at your favorite swanky hotel pool, residential swim-up bars can include a prep counter, mini-fridge, sink, shelving, etc. With submerged seating, these bars create a luxurious poolscape.

Choices in water features are numerous. Waterfalls and fountains, in all shapes and sizes, make a beautiful scene especially when combined with fire features and colorful lighting. Speaking of waterfalls, how about a swim-through waterfall, one of the neatest water features of all? Or, totally up your cool factor with a waterfall or mist cloud that doubles as your projection screen for the ultimate dive-in movie experience. With enough room, your pool may boast a private grotto or enclosed cave. Be sure to plan it with plenty of seating as you and your guests are sure to linger.

Of course, no cool pool today would be complete without a few of these other amazing features. Don’t forget to jazz up the look of the pool itself, with options ranging from mosaic-style floor designs and pool floor family monograms, to interesting LED lights that make the pool dazzle in the moonlight. Ramadas that match the exterior of your home are perfect shelter for hot Arizona days. Add some stunning outdoor seating, an outdoor flat screen TV designed to withstand the elements and you’ve got the ideal outdoor gathering spot. The finishing touch is a fire pit tucked into a corner near the pool, just the thing for summer evenings filled with fireside chats and toasted marshmallows. Now that’s the perfect “staycation.”

Salmone con Cognac Ingredients:

Local Flavor!

Wine and Beer Tasting Festival The Foothills Golf Club, June 5th 480.270.4365 or folaz.org This annual festival has quickly become one of the premiere social events of the year in the East Valley. Each year more than 1,000 people gather for wine and beer tasting, sampling appetizers from several local restaurants and enjoying live entertainment. There will also be a silent auction featuring more than 100 items, such as dining gift certificates, jewelry and weekend getaways.

Four 6 oz. Fresh Salmon Filets Flour (to dust salmon) 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Cognac Heavy Cream 1 tsp. Whole Pink Peppercorns Salt Preparation: In a large skillet, heat oil on med/high heat. Dust salmon filets with flour and sauté on both sides to desired temperature. Drain

Featuring Marcellino Ristorante 1301 E. Northern Ave. • Phoenix 602.216.0004 or marcellinoristorante.com

most of the oil and add a splash of Cognac, a splash of cream, pink peppercorns and salt to taste. Continue to sauté until sauce thickens slightly. Plate the salmon, drizzle sauce over and serve!

Lisa Westcott

480.229.3455 LisaMWestcott@me.com

With years of experience as a Scottsdale Realtor and as a Realtor servicing all areas in Maricopa County, AZ, I help both buyers and sellers meet their real estate objectives. I have extensive knowledge of each of the communities located in Scottsdale, North Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and Phoenix and will work tirelessly on your behalf to make your next home buying or home selling experience a pleasant and successful one.

When selecting a Realtor or real estate agent, strong knowledge of the community, strong negotiation skills, and a commitment to providing excellent service are all crucial elements.

For sellers, it is my commitment to help sell your home or property in a timely fashion while helping you attain the highest possible price for your real estate. If you are interested in receiving a free home valuation, I encourage you to contact me for a no-obligation report.

For buyers looking for homes or other real estate opportunities here in Scottsdale or other surrounding communities, I will work with you to find your ideal home. I will provide you with all of the necessary tools for finding the right property. From free access to search almost all Scottsdale area homes to the ability to fill out My Dream Home Finder Form, everything I can possibly provide will be at your service. In addition, once we’ve narrowed down what you are looking for, we can begin the home showing process so you can get a closer look at the homes that should be a good fit. I help negotiate the best possible deal for my clients with each and every real estate transaction.

Visit LisaMWestcott.com to get started or simply give me a call!

480.229.3455

My Philosophy of Philanthropy As a proud Realtor with The Williams Real Estate Company, it’s my pleasure to donate a sizable portion of my real estate endeavors back to our community through local charitable organizations. I’d be thrilled to share with you the program and explain in detail how working with me can benefit many of those in need.

Specializing & Experience in: Scottsdale ~ Paradise Valley ~ Golf Communities

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

Produced by Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996 • www.DesertLifestyle.net