McDowell Mountain Ranch Lifestyle

McDowell Mountain Ranch

March | April 2013

8665 E Hartford Drive, Suite 105, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

~ANGELICA FRANCO~

a leader in the mortgage industry

Angelica has been a leader in the mortgage industry for over 15 years.

She was born in Sonoma CA, moved to Arizona in 2003 and became a proud McDowell Mountain Ranch home owner in 2005. As a Senior Loan Officer and Sales Manager for one of the top 10 Primary Residential Mortgage branches in the country, she embodies a level of passion and perfection that is valued by clients and colleagues alike.

If you are looking to purchase a home or refinance, work with someone that is educated, dedicated, client focused and has a personal investment in the community you live in: • She has 15 years of invaluable mortgage lending experience • Licensed in both Arizona and California • Works with the area’s Top Real Estate Professionals • Loan closings in 30 days or less • McDowell Mountain Ranch Homeowner and Resident • Founding member of the Cardon Children’s Medical Center and Banner Health Foundation Star’s of the Season Advisory Council • 2012 Affiliate Member of the Year, Scottsdale Women’s Council of REALTORS • 2013 Treasurer for Scottsdale Women’s Council of REALTORS

For a mortgage analysis call Angelica:

602.345.7403

Your Premier McDowell Mountain Ranch Mortgage Lender committed to creating customers for life

ANGELICA J. FRANCO Sales Manager NMLS# 298954 Office: 602.345.7403 Cell: 707.529.9410 Email: AFranco@PrimeRes.com Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ AngelicaFrancoHomeLoans Programs, rates, terms and fees are subject to change without notice.

NMLS# 3094, NMLS# 155389 Licensed by the Arizona Department of Financial Institutions, AZ BK# 0902614

www.ArizonaLoanPros.com

MCD OWELL MOUNTAIN RANCH RECENT HOME SALE S Address Address

Bed / Bath / Year Sold Price Days on Closed Sq. Ft. / Bed / Built Bath / Acre Days On Market Sq.Ft. Market List Price

ACTIVE SINCE LAST PUBLICATION:

13732 Olesen RdDr

1,648 / 3 / 2 / 1999 2 - 4.9 Acres 10940 E EButherus 4 / 2.5 / 3,154 $610,000 62 53 15255 Rio Verde / 1 / 1 / 1 -1998 1.9 Acres $444,000 10 25 16394 N E108th Pl Dr 4 / 3 500 / 2,413 29303 N 148th St 2,709 / 4 / 2 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 4 16831 N 111th St 4 / 3.5 / 3,603 1996 $825,000 10 34 29525 N 164th Pl 0 3,730 / 4 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 10833 EN Salt Bush 2 / 2 2,421 / 1,915 $405,000 32 64 29509 140th St Dr / 4 / 2 / 11999 - 1.9 Acres 14909 N N107th 5 / 3 3,499 / 3,924 $670,000 11 195 27532 174th Way St / 4 / 3 / 11999 - 1.9 Acres 14527 DaleValley Ln / 4 / 2 / 12000 - 1.9 Acres 11485 E EPine Rd 3 / 2 2,530 / 2,083 $460,000 9 80 28515 162nd St Star

4,436 / 5 / 5.5 /1999 1 - 1.9 Acres 10114 EN Morning Dr 3 / 2.5 / 1,744 $334,000 19 46 27705 N 137th St 2,625 / 4 / 3 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 37 10437 E EHelm Dr Vista Ln 4 / 2 2,850 / 1,849 $335,000 10 6 14414 Morning / 4 / 3 / 11998 - 1.9 Acres 10511 EN Tierra Ln 4 / 2 3,161 / 2,152 $395,000 2 47 28505 154thBuena St / 3 / 2.5 /1997 1 - 1.9 Acres 14041 Bajada 3,245 / 6 / 3 / 11999 - 1.9 Acres 11207 E EBeck Ln Dr 4 / 3.5 / 3,375 $810,000 34 38 15406 Cavedale / 4 / 3.5 /1997 1 - 1.9 Acres 10330 E ESaltillo Dr Dr 3 / 2 3,799 / 1,451 $301,000 6 28 33305 N 142nd Way 3,534 / 4 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 63 10883 E Le Marche Dr 3 / 2 3,796 / 1,681 1997 $375,000 35 144 14215 E Dale Ln / 4 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 10751 EN Palm Dr 4 / 2.5 / 2,936 $650,000 17 19 28427 136thRidge St 3,211 / 4 / 3.5 /1999 1 - 1.9 Acres 11067 EN Butherus 4 / 2.5 / 3,176 $675,000 51 125 29220 156th St Dr 2,964 / 4 / 3 / 21999 - 4.9 Acres 13821 Westland Rd 3,998 / 4 / 3.5 /1997 5 - 9.9 Acres 10560 E EFirewheel Dr 4 / 2.5 / 2,421 $380,000 13 143 13857 Hawknest Rd 3 / 2 5,980 / 4 / 4.5 /1999 2 - 4.9 Acres 14609 NE103rd Way / 2,083 $405,000 10 47 27414 N 150th St 3,100 / 3 / 2.5 / 5 - 9.9 Acres 21 10270 EN Bahia Dr 5 / 3.5 / 2,933 $522,500 28 41 31130 151st St 4,313 / 5 / 3.5 /1998 5 - 9.9 Acres 11466 E Beck Ln SINCE LAST2 PUBLICATION: / 2 / 2,370 2002 $550,000 17 PENDING SALES 28629 168th St Dr

/ 3 / 2 / 1999 1 - 1.9 Acres

130 22 10811 EN Acoma 3 / 2.52,150 / 2,977 $725,000 31307 155th St Ln 3 / 3.52,008 / 3 / 2 / 2001 1 - 1.9 Acres

152 79 10799 EN Caribbean / 2,651 $500,000 14127 E Roberta Dr 2,786 / 4 / 3 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 4 16564 NE104th 2,367 $411,000 16538 DesertSt Vista Trl 4 / 2 /3,478 / 4 / 3 / 1998 1 - 1.9 Acres

4 2 10951 EN Winchcomb Dr 4 / 2 /1,653 2,551 $508,000 26809 152nd St / 3 / 2 / 2000 1 - 1.9 Acres

12 29 28907 152nd Pl Cir

/ 4 / 2/ 21998 - 4.9 Acres$789,000

22 6 10951 EN Cosmos 3 / 3.52,311 / 3,297

$225,000 2/15/2013 $329,000 2/14/2013 $409,900 2/12/2013 $419,900 2/11/2013 $424,500 2/8/2013 $460,000 $480,000 2/1/2013 $489,900 1/31/2013 $495,000 1/31/2013 $499,000 1/30/2013 $499,500 $525,000 1/30/2013 $559,900 1/28/2013 $625,000 1/24/2013 $625,000 1/23/2013 $674,900 1/23/2013 $775,000 $800,000 1/18/2013 $950,000 1/15/2013 $1,225,000 1/15/2013 $1,495,000

1/15/2013

$160,000 1/11/2013 $219,500 1/10/2013 $250,000 1/7/2013 $300,000 1/7/2013 $328,000 $329,900 1/7/2013 28908 N 150th St 2,471 4 / 2.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 4 $350,000 13932 E Windstone Trl 2,179 3 / 2 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 27 $390,000 13646 E Westland Rd 2,439 4 / 2.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 35 $399,000 14043 E Red Bird Rd 2,622 4 / 3 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 126 $427,500 Summary of Current Estate Activity in $430,000 27821 N 155th Pl 2,724 4 / 2 / 1Real - 1.9 Acres

153 29919Mc N 152nd St 2,662 4 / 3Ranch / 1 - 1.9 Acres

12 $435,000 Dowell Mountain Since January 1, 2013 31107 N 161st Pl 4,240 4 / 4 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 330 $450,000 Closed$479,000 16226 E PinnacleActive Vista Dr 2,999Under 4 / 4Contract/Backups / 2 - 4.9 Acres Pending 13 14247 E Dove Valley Rd 3,295 4 / 2.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 4 # Listings 41 17 22 23 $479,900 26722 N 142nd Pl 3,466 3 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 40 $575,000 33620 N 139th Way

3,895$8,385,300 3 / 3 / 2 - 4.9 Acres $12,408,19968 $595,000 List/Sold Volume $31,051,799 $12,079,500 28206 N Rio Mountain Ct 4,476 5 / 4.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 297 $699,900 13615 E Aloe Dr 5,001$325,000 3 / 3.5 / 2 - 4.9 Acres$275,000

17 $700,000 List/Sold LowVera $300,000 $301,000

4,112$493,253 4 / 4 / 5 - 9.9 Acres $564,009 31 $800,000 $525,196 Price 31026 N 151st Avg St $757,361 SOLD SINCE LAST$3,495,000 PUBLICATION: DOM List Price $825,000 Sold Price $880,000 $1,190,000 High 16229 E White Feather Ln 3,311 / 4 / 3.5 /1 - 1.9 Acres 268 $543,000 $535,000 27127

2,7651,504 / 4 / 3 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 1,604

106 $399,9001,451 $415,000 Approx SF N 137th Low St 1,451 Rd 2,8462,384 / 4 / 2.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 34 $309,9002,570 $290,000 2,988 2,765 17411 E Quail Avg Track (2.5 Acres) 3,2563,926 / 4 / 4 / 2 - 4.9 Acres 4,200

52 $565,0003,924 $530,000 28507 N 141st High St 6,281 27311 N 162nd St 2,692 / 3 / 3.5 / 2 - 4.9 Acres 30 $376,000 $400,000 14625 E Desert Trl 3,053$143.51 / 4 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 124 $599,000$156.96 $583,000 List/Sold Low Vista $182.02 $147.77 27836 N 158th St

2,522 / 4 / 3 / 1 1.9 Acres

47

$399,000

$380,000 $209.75 $206.35 $203.30 Price Per Avg $241.20 16421 E Lone Tree Trl 3,173 / 4 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 35 $449,900 $405,001 $251.29 $291.49 $243.53 Approx SF High $556.44 28428 N 151st St 4,050 / 4 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 540 $849,000 $805,000 2,67611 / 3 / 2.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres Days34609 on N 140th Low St 0 1 54 $379,0002 $375,000 33510 N 139th Pl 4,395 / 5 / 5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 15 $640,000 $620,000 102 47 247 $295,00056 $318,000 Market Avg 62 14226 E Melanie Dr 2,037 / 3 / 2 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 346 490 31527 N 174th High St 258

4,211 / 5 / 4 / 2 - 4.9 Acres 341 $897,000195 $750,000 32905 N 140th StSource:

3,002 / 3 / 2.5 / 5 9.9 Acres

298guaranteed. $975,000 $965,000 MLS. Information is deemed reliable but is not Data reflectsThe closed sales uplisttohave 2/18/2013.

All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. properties on this 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 • www.DesertLifestyle.net

ISSN-1939-9421

Why We Love it Here!

Tax Assessor Overvalued Your Property?

Take Quick Action on an Appeal

Fresh & Light for Spring BLT Steak’s Tuna Tartare

McDowell Mountain Ranch Real Estate Report

In Good Taste

Event Calendar

Featuring BLT Steak at the JW Marriott Camelback Inn Scottsdale Resort & Spa 480.905.7979

MARCH | APRIL 2013 La Cage Aux Folles Phoenix Theatre, March 13th – April 7th 602.254.2151 | PhoenixTheatre.com Some call it “The Birdcage,” others say it’s “A Menagerie of Crazies.” We call it worth the wait!

La Cage is a tuneful and touching tale of one family’s struggle to stay together, stay fabulous and above all else, stay true to themselves! With a glorious score of hummable melodies, written by Jerry Herman of Hello Dolly, Mame and Mack & Mabel fame, La Cage is an indisputable musical comedy classic.

TUNA TARTARE WITH AVOCADO AND SOY-LIME DRESSING 18 ounces fresh tuna, trimmed and cut into 1/8-inch dice 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 ripe Haas avocadoes, peeled and diced Toasted sliced ciabatta bread Crispy Shallots: Peanut oil for frying 3 tablespoons finely chopped shallots 2 tablespoons Wondra flour Fine sea salt Fry the Shallots: Pour the oil into a small saucepan to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil until a small piece of shallot sizzles rapidly when added to the pan. Toss the shallots with the flour.

Carefully add the shallots to the oil and fry until golden brown, 30 to 60 seconds. Remove the shallots with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season with a pinch of salt.

Dressing: 1-1/2 teaspoons wasabi powder 3 tablespoons reduced sodium (light) soy sauce 2 tablespoons white mirin 1 tablespoon mustard oil 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar 1 teaspoon lime juice 1 teaspoon honey Freshly ground black pepper Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, stir together the wasabi powder and 1 tablespoon water to make a smooth paste.

Whisk in the soy sauce, mirin, mustard oil, vinegar, lime juice and honey. Add black pepper to taste. Set aside.

Make the Tartare: Toss the tuna with the olive oil, salt and pepper to taste. Season the avocadoes with salt and pepper to taste.

To Serve: To mold the tuna into a disk, place a 3-inch tartlet ring or an empty tuna can with the top and bottom lids cut out on a chilled plate. Fill the ring with a layer of avocado and top with the diced tuna and fried shallots. Lift off the ring.

Drizzle the sauce around the tuna. Serve with the ciabatta or homemade potato chips.

Serves 6

Arizona. It’s a land brimming with treasures, both natural and man-made. It is a magical place, one of unending grandeur in which its beauties and mysteries continue to unfold for those exploring all of its offerings. Arizona’s great appeal is found in its stunning landscapes, its pleasant climate, a history rich with diverse cultures and a new modern influence able to satisfy the most sophisticated of personalities.

Natural Wonders

The land that is Arizona has been the topic of poets, scholars, photographers and others simply awe-inspired by its majesty. From the jaw-dropping Grand Canyon to the stunning red rocks of Sedona, the gorgeous sights of Arizona are beloved by residents and travelers from all parts of our globe. Perhaps the greatest charm of the Arizona landscape lies in its seemingly infinite diversity.

In less than a day’s travel, one can experience the sheer beauty of the Sonoran Desert’s surprising lushness as well as snow-covered pine trees blanketing mountain ridges. Famous destinations such as the Painted Desert, Monument Valley and Karchner Caverns give way to the equally stunning, albeit lesser known, treasures of winding canyon lands, vast plateaus, ancient volcanoes and saguaro-studded expanses of desert.

Fantastic Climate

In a haven that boasts a plentitude of sunshine, many can not resist the allure of such a lovely place to spend their lives. Arizona’s exceptionally clear skies lend themselves to dark, starry nights and magical, azure-blue days. Even the desert’s abundant dust contributes to Arizona’s famous sunsets as the descending sunlight reflects off of these minute particles in the air. Skies painted with blazing reds and oranges, and gorgeous purples and pinks are a nightly gift. Arizona’s low humidity allows even hot, desert air to cool significantly at night giving us pleasant temperatures in any season. With luxurious sunshine prevailing in each of the four seasons, Arizona is known as one of the most delightful places on earth.

In late February, the Maricopa County Assessor’s office will have mailed Notices of Value establishing the value of your property for tax year 2014. These values, in conjunction with the tax rates (established at a later date) will dictate the amount of property taxes you pay for the 2014 tax year. If your Full Cash Value is higher than your property’s market value, you can challenge the Assessor’s valuation.

With the recent passage of Proposition 117, now is the perfect time to make sure that the values set by the Assessor accurately reflect the market value of your property. Proposition 117 will alter the way the Maricopa County Assessor determines your property’s assessed value. Beginning in tax year 2015, your Limited Property Value (“LPV”) will determine both your primary and secondary taxes. As a result of Proposition 117, a property’s LPV can increase by no more than 5% per year.

Because the Full Cash Value will serve as a cap on how high your Limited Property Value can be, it is important that your assessment be reviewed THIS YEAR to grandfather in the lowest base starting value for next year when Proposition 117 takes effect.

Rich History

A place is molded by the people who have lived there. The cultures that have put their mark on Arizona have shaped it into what it is today. Arizona’s appealing character is a combination of Native American, Spanish and Mexican influences. As early American settlers migrated to Arizona in search of new opportunities and adventures, visions of frontier families, cowboys and gunfights pepper the images of our heritage.

Because of this vivid and varied history, Arizona offers world-class museums and archeologically-important discoveries.

Modern Culture

From the humble beginnings of an outback Western Territory, the metropolises of Arizona have grown into their own. Vibrant cities are bursting with stylish nightspots and luxurious resorts. World-class golf, spas and shopping are just steps away from restaurants offering cuisine for every palate. Dynamic performing arts and thought-provoking visual arts are at our daily disposal. Life in Arizona is as serene or as fast-paced as an individual desires.

Life in Arizona, for many, is a dream come true!

10 Tips To Challenge The Assessor’s Valuation: 1. Review your Notice of Value, which the Assessor will have mailed in February. Ask yourself, “Would I sell my home for the full cash value determined by the Assessor?” If your answer is “no,” then you probably should not appeal. Conversely, if you believe your assessed value is higher than the market value of your home, then you should consider filing an appeal.

A Step-By-Step Guide

TO APPEAL YOUR PROPERTY TAXES

2. File your appeal within 60 days of the mailing date on your Notice of Value.

3. Appeal forms (also known as “Petitions for Review”) are available at the Assessor’s Office or online at: www.maricopa.gov/assessor/ PropertyValueAppeals.aspx.

4. Attach to your petition “substantial information” that supports a reduction in the Full Cash Value of your property.

This could include a recent appraisal, documented sales of similar properties, information regarding the physical condition of your property, a location problem or adverse terrain features.

Call your neighborhood Realtor for help with comparable sales data.

5. Mark the box on the form requesting a meeting with the Assessor. At the meeting, you will find out why the Assessor believes your property is or is not overvalued.

6. If you do not achieve a reduction at the Assessor level, you can further appeal the value of your property to the State Board of Equalization.

7. File your appeal to the State Board within 25 days of the mailing date of the Assessor’s decision.

8. For information on appealing to the State Board, visit www.sboe.state.az.us.

9. Finally, if you do not achieve a reduction at the State Board level, you may appeal to Tax Court. Information on how to file your own small claims tax appeal can be found at: www.superiorcourt.maricopa.gov/SuperiorCourt/ TaxCourt/casePrep.asp.

10. File your appeal to Tax Court within 60 days of the mailing date of the State Board’s decision.

Information presented with the assistance of Attorneys at Law, Jennifer A. Prendiville and Bart Wilhoit of Mooney, Wright & Moore, PLLC. While they do not typically handle residential appeals, do contact them if you have a commercial or industrial property, or vacant land that you would like to appeal. AZStateTaxLaw.com

Agave on the Rocks Desert Botanical Garden, March 22nd 480.481.8188 | DBG.org Celebrate the essence of the margarita and the spirit of the Southwest at the 11th Annual Agave on the Rocks at the Desert Botanical Garden. Savor an evening of gourmet eats prepared by the Valley’s best restaurants and caterers and samba under the stars to vibrant Latin rhythms.

Aspen Santa Fe Ballet Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, March 22nd – 23rd 480.499.8587 | AspenSantaFeBallet.com Aspen Santa Fe Ballet’s bold vision – top global choreographers, distinctive groundbreaking works, and virtuoso dancers – has fostered a jewel of a dance company in the American West and beyond. ASFB’s unique pioneering spirit arises from a paired set of home cities: Aspen, nestled high in the Rocky Mountains, and Santa Fe, gracing the majestic Southwestern plateau.

For 16 years, the company has served as a prestigious incubator and a showcase for choreographic invention to popular and critical acclaim.

6th Annual Dine With Your Dog PERA Club Tempe, April 13th 602.933.2663 | DineWithYourDog.org Woof, Wine and Dine! Don’t miss this “fur-filled” fundraiser. The evening includes a gourmet dinner with wine, a gourmet canine dinner for your pooch, a fashion show highlighting the latest trends in Canine Couture, raffle, vendors, doggie activities and more.

Benefiting the PetSmart Paws Can Heal animal-assisted therapy program, this magical evening will help many in need, including Phoenix Children’s Hospital patients.

Monterey Jazz Festival 55th Anniversary Celebration Mesa Arts Center, April 26th 480.644.6500 | MesaArtsCenter.com Monterey is the longest consecutively running jazz festival in the world. Celebrate the Festival’s legacy expanding the boundaries of live jazz presentation, an All-Star Jazz Collaboration. This 55th Anniversary Tour reflects Monterey’s “traditional-untraditionalist” attitude, jazz-with-a-purpose exuberance, and joyful fun that continues to be the hallmark of the Festival to this day.

In Good Taste

Event Calendar

Featuring BLT Steak at the JW Marriott Camelback Inn Scottsdale Resort & Spa 480.905.7979

MARCH | APRIL 2013 La Cage Aux Folles Phoenix Theatre, March 13th – April 7th 602.254.2151 | PhoenixTheatre.com Some call it “The Birdcage,” others say it’s “A Menagerie of Crazies.” We call it worth the wait!

La Cage is a tuneful and touching tale of one family’s struggle to stay together, stay fabulous and above all else, stay true to themselves! With a glorious score of hummable melodies, written by Jerry Herman of Hello Dolly, Mame and Mack & Mabel fame, La Cage is an indisputable musical comedy classic.

TUNA TARTARE WITH AVOCADO AND SOY-LIME DRESSING 18 ounces fresh tuna, trimmed and cut into 1/8-inch dice 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 ripe Haas avocadoes, peeled and diced Toasted sliced ciabatta bread Crispy Shallots: Peanut oil for frying 3 tablespoons finely chopped shallots 2 tablespoons Wondra flour Fine sea salt Fry the Shallots: Pour the oil into a small saucepan to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil until a small piece of shallot sizzles rapidly when added to the pan. Toss the shallots with the flour.

Carefully add the shallots to the oil and fry until golden brown, 30 to 60 seconds. Remove the shallots with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season with a pinch of salt.

Dressing: 1-1/2 teaspoons wasabi powder 3 tablespoons reduced sodium (light) soy sauce 2 tablespoons white mirin 1 tablespoon mustard oil 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar 1 teaspoon lime juice 1 teaspoon honey Freshly ground black pepper Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, stir together the wasabi powder and 1 tablespoon water to make a smooth paste.

Whisk in the soy sauce, mirin, mustard oil, vinegar, lime juice and honey. Add black pepper to taste. Set aside.

Make the Tartare: Toss the tuna with the olive oil, salt and pepper to taste. Season the avocadoes with salt and pepper to taste.

To Serve: To mold the tuna into a disk, place a 3-inch tartlet ring or an empty tuna can with the top and bottom lids cut out on a chilled plate. Fill the ring with a layer of avocado and top with the diced tuna and fried shallots. Lift off the ring.

Drizzle the sauce around the tuna. Serve with the ciabatta or homemade potato chips.

Serves 6

Arizona. It’s a land brimming with treasures, both natural and man-made. It is a magical place, one of unending grandeur in which its beauties and mysteries continue to unfold for those exploring all of its offerings. Arizona’s great appeal is found in its stunning landscapes, its pleasant climate, a history rich with diverse cultures and a new modern influence able to satisfy the most sophisticated of personalities.

Natural Wonders

The land that is Arizona has been the topic of poets, scholars, photographers and others simply awe-inspired by its majesty. From the jaw-dropping Grand Canyon to the stunning red rocks of Sedona, the gorgeous sights of Arizona are beloved by residents and travelers from all parts of our globe. Perhaps the greatest charm of the Arizona landscape lies in its seemingly infinite diversity.

In less than a day’s travel, one can experience the sheer beauty of the Sonoran Desert’s surprising lushness as well as snow-covered pine trees blanketing mountain ridges. Famous destinations such as the Painted Desert, Monument Valley and Karchner Caverns give way to the equally stunning, albeit lesser known, treasures of winding canyon lands, vast plateaus, ancient volcanoes and saguaro-studded expanses of desert.

Fantastic Climate

In a haven that boasts a plentitude of sunshine, many can not resist the allure of such a lovely place to spend their lives. Arizona’s exceptionally clear skies lend themselves to dark, starry nights and magical, azure-blue days. Even the desert’s abundant dust contributes to Arizona’s famous sunsets as the descending sunlight reflects off of these minute particles in the air. Skies painted with blazing reds and oranges, and gorgeous purples and pinks are a nightly gift. Arizona’s low humidity allows even hot, desert air to cool significantly at night giving us pleasant temperatures in any season. With luxurious sunshine prevailing in each of the four seasons, Arizona is known as one of the most delightful places on earth.

In late February, the Maricopa County Assessor’s office will have mailed Notices of Value establishing the value of your property for tax year 2014. These values, in conjunction with the tax rates (established at a later date) will dictate the amount of property taxes you pay for the 2014 tax year. If your Full Cash Value is higher than your property’s market value, you can challenge the Assessor’s valuation.

With the recent passage of Proposition 117, now is the perfect time to make sure that the values set by the Assessor accurately reflect the market value of your property. Proposition 117 will alter the way the Maricopa County Assessor determines your property’s assessed value. Beginning in tax year 2015, your Limited Property Value (“LPV”) will determine both your primary and secondary taxes. As a result of Proposition 117, a property’s LPV can increase by no more than 5% per year.

Because the Full Cash Value will serve as a cap on how high your Limited Property Value can be, it is important that your assessment be reviewed THIS YEAR to grandfather in the lowest base starting value for next year when Proposition 117 takes effect.

Rich History

A place is molded by the people who have lived there. The cultures that have put their mark on Arizona have shaped it into what it is today. Arizona’s appealing character is a combination of Native American, Spanish and Mexican influences. As early American settlers migrated to Arizona in search of new opportunities and adventures, visions of frontier families, cowboys and gunfights pepper the images of our heritage.

Because of this vivid and varied history, Arizona offers world-class museums and archeologically-important discoveries.

Modern Culture

From the humble beginnings of an outback Western Territory, the metropolises of Arizona have grown into their own. Vibrant cities are bursting with stylish nightspots and luxurious resorts. World-class golf, spas and shopping are just steps away from restaurants offering cuisine for every palate. Dynamic performing arts and thought-provoking visual arts are at our daily disposal. Life in Arizona is as serene or as fast-paced as an individual desires.

Life in Arizona, for many, is a dream come true!

10 Tips To Challenge The Assessor’s Valuation: 1. Review your Notice of Value, which the Assessor will have mailed in February. Ask yourself, “Would I sell my home for the full cash value determined by the Assessor?” If your answer is “no,” then you probably should not appeal. Conversely, if you believe your assessed value is higher than the market value of your home, then you should consider filing an appeal.

A Step-By-Step Guide

TO APPEAL YOUR PROPERTY TAXES

2. File your appeal within 60 days of the mailing date on your Notice of Value.

3. Appeal forms (also known as “Petitions for Review”) are available at the Assessor’s Office or online at: www.maricopa.gov/assessor/ PropertyValueAppeals.aspx.

4. Attach to your petition “substantial information” that supports a reduction in the Full Cash Value of your property.

This could include a recent appraisal, documented sales of similar properties, information regarding the physical condition of your property, a location problem or adverse terrain features.

Call your neighborhood Realtor for help with comparable sales data.

5. Mark the box on the form requesting a meeting with the Assessor. At the meeting, you will find out why the Assessor believes your property is or is not overvalued.

6. If you do not achieve a reduction at the Assessor level, you can further appeal the value of your property to the State Board of Equalization.

7. File your appeal to the State Board within 25 days of the mailing date of the Assessor’s decision.

8. For information on appealing to the State Board, visit www.sboe.state.az.us.

9. Finally, if you do not achieve a reduction at the State Board level, you may appeal to Tax Court. Information on how to file your own small claims tax appeal can be found at: www.superiorcourt.maricopa.gov/SuperiorCourt/ TaxCourt/casePrep.asp.

10. File your appeal to Tax Court within 60 days of the mailing date of the State Board’s decision.

Information presented with the assistance of Attorneys at Law, Jennifer A. Prendiville and Bart Wilhoit of Mooney, Wright & Moore, PLLC. While they do not typically handle residential appeals, do contact them if you have a commercial or industrial property, or vacant land that you would like to appeal. AZStateTaxLaw.com

Agave on the Rocks Desert Botanical Garden, March 22nd 480.481.8188 | DBG.org Celebrate the essence of the margarita and the spirit of the Southwest at the 11th Annual Agave on the Rocks at the Desert Botanical Garden. Savor an evening of gourmet eats prepared by the Valley’s best restaurants and caterers and samba under the stars to vibrant Latin rhythms.

Aspen Santa Fe Ballet Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, March 22nd – 23rd 480.499.8587 | AspenSantaFeBallet.com Aspen Santa Fe Ballet’s bold vision – top global choreographers, distinctive groundbreaking works, and virtuoso dancers – has fostered a jewel of a dance company in the American West and beyond. ASFB’s unique pioneering spirit arises from a paired set of home cities: Aspen, nestled high in the Rocky Mountains, and Santa Fe, gracing the majestic Southwestern plateau.

For 16 years, the company has served as a prestigious incubator and a showcase for choreographic invention to popular and critical acclaim.

6th Annual Dine With Your Dog PERA Club Tempe, April 13th 602.933.2663 | DineWithYourDog.org Woof, Wine and Dine! Don’t miss this “fur-filled” fundraiser. The evening includes a gourmet dinner with wine, a gourmet canine dinner for your pooch, a fashion show highlighting the latest trends in Canine Couture, raffle, vendors, doggie activities and more.

Benefiting the PetSmart Paws Can Heal animal-assisted therapy program, this magical evening will help many in need, including Phoenix Children’s Hospital patients.

Monterey Jazz Festival 55th Anniversary Celebration Mesa Arts Center, April 26th 480.644.6500 | MesaArtsCenter.com Monterey is the longest consecutively running jazz festival in the world. Celebrate the Festival’s legacy expanding the boundaries of live jazz presentation, an All-Star Jazz Collaboration. This 55th Anniversary Tour reflects Monterey’s “traditional-untraditionalist” attitude, jazz-with-a-purpose exuberance, and joyful fun that continues to be the hallmark of the Festival to this day.

McDowell Mountain Ranch

March | April 2013

8665 E Hartford Drive, Suite 105, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

~ANGELICA FRANCO~

a leader in the mortgage industry

Angelica has been a leader in the mortgage industry for over 15 years.

She was born in Sonoma CA, moved to Arizona in 2003 and became a proud McDowell Mountain Ranch home owner in 2005. As a Senior Loan Officer and Sales Manager for one of the top 10 Primary Residential Mortgage branches in the country, she embodies a level of passion and perfection that is valued by clients and colleagues alike.

If you are looking to purchase a home or refinance, work with someone that is educated, dedicated, client focused and has a personal investment in the community you live in: • She has 15 years of invaluable mortgage lending experience • Licensed in both Arizona and California • Works with the area’s Top Real Estate Professionals • Loan closings in 30 days or less • McDowell Mountain Ranch Homeowner and Resident • Founding member of the Cardon Children’s Medical Center and Banner Health Foundation Star’s of the Season Advisory Council • 2012 Affiliate Member of the Year, Scottsdale Women’s Council of REALTORS • 2013 Treasurer for Scottsdale Women’s Council of REALTORS

For a mortgage analysis call Angelica:

602.345.7403

Your Premier McDowell Mountain Ranch Mortgage Lender committed to creating customers for life

ANGELICA J. FRANCO Sales Manager NMLS# 298954 Office: 602.345.7403 Cell: 707.529.9410 Email: AFranco@PrimeRes.com Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ AngelicaFrancoHomeLoans Programs, rates, terms and fees are subject to change without notice.

NMLS# 3094, NMLS# 155389 Licensed by the Arizona Department of Financial Institutions, AZ BK# 0902614

www.ArizonaLoanPros.com

MCD OWELL MOUNTAIN RANCH RECENT HOME SALE S Address Address

Bed / Bath / Year Sold Price Days on Closed Sq. Ft. / Bed / Built Bath / Acre Days On Market Sq.Ft. Market List Price

ACTIVE SINCE LAST PUBLICATION:

13732 Olesen RdDr

1,648 / 3 / 2 / 1999 2 - 4.9 Acres 10940 E EButherus 4 / 2.5 / 3,154 $610,000 62 53 15255 Rio Verde / 1 / 1 / 1 -1998 1.9 Acres $444,000 10 25 16394 N E108th Pl Dr 4 / 3 500 / 2,413 29303 N 148th St 2,709 / 4 / 2 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 4 16831 N 111th St 4 / 3.5 / 3,603 1996 $825,000 10 34 29525 N 164th Pl 0 3,730 / 4 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 10833 EN Salt Bush 2 / 2 2,421 / 1,915 $405,000 32 64 29509 140th St Dr / 4 / 2 / 11999 - 1.9 Acres 14909 N N107th 5 / 3 3,499 / 3,924 $670,000 11 195 27532 174th Way St / 4 / 3 / 11999 - 1.9 Acres 14527 DaleValley Ln / 4 / 2 / 12000 - 1.9 Acres 11485 E EPine Rd 3 / 2 2,530 / 2,083 $460,000 9 80 28515 162nd St Star

4,436 / 5 / 5.5 /1999 1 - 1.9 Acres 10114 EN Morning Dr 3 / 2.5 / 1,744 $334,000 19 46 27705 N 137th St 2,625 / 4 / 3 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 37 10437 E EHelm Dr Vista Ln 4 / 2 2,850 / 1,849 $335,000 10 6 14414 Morning / 4 / 3 / 11998 - 1.9 Acres 10511 EN Tierra Ln 4 / 2 3,161 / 2,152 $395,000 2 47 28505 154thBuena St / 3 / 2.5 /1997 1 - 1.9 Acres 14041 Bajada 3,245 / 6 / 3 / 11999 - 1.9 Acres 11207 E EBeck Ln Dr 4 / 3.5 / 3,375 $810,000 34 38 15406 Cavedale / 4 / 3.5 /1997 1 - 1.9 Acres 10330 E ESaltillo Dr Dr 3 / 2 3,799 / 1,451 $301,000 6 28 33305 N 142nd Way 3,534 / 4 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 63 10883 E Le Marche Dr 3 / 2 3,796 / 1,681 1997 $375,000 35 144 14215 E Dale Ln / 4 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 10751 EN Palm Dr 4 / 2.5 / 2,936 $650,000 17 19 28427 136thRidge St 3,211 / 4 / 3.5 /1999 1 - 1.9 Acres 11067 EN Butherus 4 / 2.5 / 3,176 $675,000 51 125 29220 156th St Dr 2,964 / 4 / 3 / 21999 - 4.9 Acres 13821 Westland Rd 3,998 / 4 / 3.5 /1997 5 - 9.9 Acres 10560 E EFirewheel Dr 4 / 2.5 / 2,421 $380,000 13 143 13857 Hawknest Rd 3 / 2 5,980 / 4 / 4.5 /1999 2 - 4.9 Acres 14609 NE103rd Way / 2,083 $405,000 10 47 27414 N 150th St 3,100 / 3 / 2.5 / 5 - 9.9 Acres 21 10270 EN Bahia Dr 5 / 3.5 / 2,933 $522,500 28 41 31130 151st St 4,313 / 5 / 3.5 /1998 5 - 9.9 Acres 11466 E Beck Ln SINCE LAST2 PUBLICATION: / 2 / 2,370 2002 $550,000 17 PENDING SALES 28629 168th St Dr

/ 3 / 2 / 1999 1 - 1.9 Acres

130 22 10811 EN Acoma 3 / 2.52,150 / 2,977 $725,000 31307 155th St Ln 3 / 3.52,008 / 3 / 2 / 2001 1 - 1.9 Acres

152 79 10799 EN Caribbean / 2,651 $500,000 14127 E Roberta Dr 2,786 / 4 / 3 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 4 16564 NE104th 2,367 $411,000 16538 DesertSt Vista Trl 4 / 2 /3,478 / 4 / 3 / 1998 1 - 1.9 Acres

4 2 10951 EN Winchcomb Dr 4 / 2 /1,653 2,551 $508,000 26809 152nd St / 3 / 2 / 2000 1 - 1.9 Acres

12 29 28907 152nd Pl Cir

/ 4 / 2/ 21998 - 4.9 Acres$789,000

22 6 10951 EN Cosmos 3 / 3.52,311 / 3,297

$225,000 2/15/2013 $329,000 2/14/2013 $409,900 2/12/2013 $419,900 2/11/2013 $424,500 2/8/2013 $460,000 $480,000 2/1/2013 $489,900 1/31/2013 $495,000 1/31/2013 $499,000 1/30/2013 $499,500 $525,000 1/30/2013 $559,900 1/28/2013 $625,000 1/24/2013 $625,000 1/23/2013 $674,900 1/23/2013 $775,000 $800,000 1/18/2013 $950,000 1/15/2013 $1,225,000 1/15/2013 $1,495,000

1/15/2013

$160,000 1/11/2013 $219,500 1/10/2013 $250,000 1/7/2013 $300,000 1/7/2013 $328,000 $329,900 1/7/2013 28908 N 150th St 2,471 4 / 2.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 4 $350,000 13932 E Windstone Trl 2,179 3 / 2 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 27 $390,000 13646 E Westland Rd 2,439 4 / 2.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 35 $399,000 14043 E Red Bird Rd 2,622 4 / 3 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 126 $427,500 Summary of Current Estate Activity in $430,000 27821 N 155th Pl 2,724 4 / 2 / 1Real - 1.9 Acres

153 29919Mc N 152nd St 2,662 4 / 3Ranch / 1 - 1.9 Acres

12 $435,000 Dowell Mountain Since January 1, 2013 31107 N 161st Pl 4,240 4 / 4 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 330 $450,000 Closed$479,000 16226 E PinnacleActive Vista Dr 2,999Under 4 / 4Contract/Backups / 2 - 4.9 Acres Pending 13 14247 E Dove Valley Rd 3,295 4 / 2.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 4 # Listings 41 17 22 23 $479,900 26722 N 142nd Pl 3,466 3 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 40 $575,000 33620 N 139th Way

3,895$8,385,300 3 / 3 / 2 - 4.9 Acres $12,408,19968 $595,000 List/Sold Volume $31,051,799 $12,079,500 28206 N Rio Mountain Ct 4,476 5 / 4.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 297 $699,900 13615 E Aloe Dr 5,001$325,000 3 / 3.5 / 2 - 4.9 Acres$275,000

17 $700,000 List/Sold LowVera $300,000 $301,000

4,112$493,253 4 / 4 / 5 - 9.9 Acres $564,009 31 $800,000 $525,196 Price 31026 N 151st Avg St $757,361 SOLD SINCE LAST$3,495,000 PUBLICATION: DOM List Price $825,000 Sold Price $880,000 $1,190,000 High 16229 E White Feather Ln 3,311 / 4 / 3.5 /1 - 1.9 Acres 268 $543,000 $535,000 27127

2,7651,504 / 4 / 3 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 1,604

106 $399,9001,451 $415,000 Approx SF N 137th Low St 1,451 Rd 2,8462,384 / 4 / 2.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 34 $309,9002,570 $290,000 2,988 2,765 17411 E Quail Avg Track (2.5 Acres) 3,2563,926 / 4 / 4 / 2 - 4.9 Acres 4,200

52 $565,0003,924 $530,000 28507 N 141st High St 6,281 27311 N 162nd St 2,692 / 3 / 3.5 / 2 - 4.9 Acres 30 $376,000 $400,000 14625 E Desert Trl 3,053$143.51 / 4 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 124 $599,000$156.96 $583,000 List/Sold Low Vista $182.02 $147.77 27836 N 158th St

2,522 / 4 / 3 / 1 1.9 Acres

47

$399,000

$380,000 $209.75 $206.35 $203.30 Price Per Avg $241.20 16421 E Lone Tree Trl 3,173 / 4 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 35 $449,900 $405,001 $251.29 $291.49 $243.53 Approx SF High $556.44 28428 N 151st St 4,050 / 4 / 3.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 540 $849,000 $805,000 2,67611 / 3 / 2.5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres Days34609 on N 140th Low St 0 1 54 $379,0002 $375,000 33510 N 139th Pl 4,395 / 5 / 5 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 15 $640,000 $620,000 102 47 247 $295,00056 $318,000 Market Avg 62 14226 E Melanie Dr 2,037 / 3 / 2 / 1 - 1.9 Acres 346 490 31527 N 174th High St 258

4,211 / 5 / 4 / 2 - 4.9 Acres 341 $897,000195 $750,000 32905 N 140th StSource:

3,002 / 3 / 2.5 / 5 9.9 Acres

298guaranteed. $975,000 $965,000 MLS. Information is deemed reliable but is not Data reflectsThe closed sales uplisttohave 2/18/2013.

All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. properties on this 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 • www.DesertLifestyle.net

ISSN-1939-9421

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