Top 7 Reasons To Live In A Condo In Phoenix

Condo living in Phoenix is a growing real estate trend this year, for a number of reasons. Chris F. Campbell of RooPho Realty explains why increasing numbers of home buyers are looking for a condo or loft in the city.

Low Maintenance

Possibly the number one reason that the market is moving toward condo living in Phoenix is the “Lock and Leave” lifestyle, Chris states. “There is no or low maintenance on these properties.” Condo associations take care of the mowing and landscaping, exterior cleaning and maintenance of the properties.

Walk-Friendly Communities

Many condo and loft properties are located in more urban areas featuring easy access to culture, dining and entertainment. “Walking to dinner and entertainment is a major benefit to living in these communities,” says Chris.

Flexibility

A common misconception is that condos and lofts are only for the young or single. “The truth is that condos come in many sizes and prices.  2000 square feet with 2 bedrooms, den and 2.5 baths for example.  Some condos even have private 2 car garages and private courtyards.  Others are small 600 square foot studio style.  There’s something for everyone and every lifestyle,” Chris explains.

Security

Condo living in Phoenix often feels safer than living in a traditional house in the suburbs. The majority of condos have a higher security level than miscellaneous neighborhoods and may feature gates, secured floors and trained security personnel on the property. This living arrangement allows you easy access to other residents which is a valuable commodity in an emergency.

Community

Condo and loft communities frequently have a close-knit family feel. You get to know your neighbors by using common areas and amenities. Many condo associations offer community events that facilitate socializing of neighbors.

Commuting

Do you work in the city? Urban condos and lofts are well situated so your commute is likely minimal. You might walk, bus, bicycle or “use the light rail for getting to the airport, Tempe and downtown from midtown.” Chris informs. The multitude of commuter options might reduce or even eliminate your need for a vehicle helping you BE green and SAVE green.

Amenities

Last but often best are the fantastic offerings that many condo communities boast. Sparkling pools and beautifully maintained common areas like clubhouses or ramadas will increase your enjoyment of the property without requiring any actual effort on your part. Fitness centers WILL require effort, but only as you exercise your way to health!

Condo living in Phoenix is a blossoming trend that is likely to become a phenomenon in 2015. “Unless your kids need a yard or your horse needs a stable, then condo living may be just what you are looking for!” Chris concludes. To discuss these beautiful properties, contact us today!

4th of July Weekend in Phoenix

One of the best parts of Phoenix living are special occasions and holidays. The upcoming Fourth of July weekend is no exception! Looking for fireworks? Food? Music? Fun? You’re sure to find all of those exciting options for this year’s Independence Day celebration. Here are a handful of the best events around the valley.

July 2 Events

·       Light up the Sky at Maryvale Baseball Park:  6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., Free.  The kids will love the games, bouncy houses, and fantastic fireworks show!

July 3 Events

·       Red, White & Boom at Pecos Park: 5 – 10 p.m. Free admission, $10 parking. Misting stations, splash pads, scrumptious food and beverages, cold treats and plenty of activities await all ages at this fun event! For $25 each you may also gain entry to the Boom!Room and the Oasis Lounge. These add-on options place you in premium spots for the fireworks and allow access to reserved and pool areas.

July 4 Events

·       Freedom Wireless Fabulous Phoenix 4th  at Steel Indian School Park. 6-10 p.m. Free Admission!  This gratis event boasts delicious food and drink, exhibits, a car show, bouncy houses, spray and splash activities, rides, live music and more. This year’s amazing addition is the Veterans Village which is a tribute to those who have fought for our country. You’ll shop, feast and frolic at this huge event. The icing on the cake is one of the Southwest’s largest fireworks presentations, kicking off around 9:30.

·       4^th of Zoo-ly at Phoenix Zoo: 7-10 p.m. $45 Adults, $35 for children 3-12. Ready for a great barbecue and a visit with some exotic animals? The Phoenix Zoo is the place for you for the patriotic holiday! Cold treats are available as well as alcoholic beverages. You’ll love the live entertainment and the wonderful view of Tempe Town Lake Fireworks Spectacular, starting at 9 p.m.

·       July 4^th Tempe Town Lake Festival at Tempe Beach Park: Gates open at 5 p.m. $5 advanced adult tickets or $8 at the entry point the day of the event. If you are looking for unrivaled fun, you’ll find it at this jubilee. You can enjoy the huge food court, live music and a plethora of tasty festival-style foods at this gigantic party. Lots of kid-friendly activities around and the adults can have a little alcohol-oriented fun if they choose. Fireworks are shot from the Mill Avenue bridge and feature a musical backdrop.

·       Firework Fest at Westgate in Glendale: 5 – 9:30 p.m. Free admission. The Westgate Entertainment district is a hopping part of Phoenix living, and 4^th of July is more evidence to that point! Family friendly entertainment will delight you while you enjoy any of the popular restaurants here. Adults will love the beer garden and classic car show, and everybody will enjoy the variety of music performed by local talent. Fireworks start around 9 p.m.!

·       Scottsdale 4^th of July at Westworld: 2 – 9:30 p.m. $12 general admission, VIP $30 plus fees. BMX stunt shows, bull riding and Disney’s Frozen characters are just a few of the features at this deluxe event. With purchase of a special wristband you gain access to slides, obstacle courses, a mechanical bull, bouncy house and a zip line! Both big and small children will have a blast at the festivities. Fireworks begin around 9 p.m.

Those who enjoy Phoenix living can tell you how great this holiday will be. Check out your own neighborhood’s events or find fun in a nearby town. If you’re not yet a Phoenix resident, let us help you with your search!

Best Places To Grab A Cup Of Coffee For Phoenix Locals

Phoenix living wouldn’t be complete without some great coffee houses. There’s no shortage of fantastic places in the central Phoenix area to grab a cup of joe, but a few absolutely excellent places stand out in the crowd.

The taste of the Northwest comes to the Southwest via Red Hut Coffee, a Roosevelt street delight. Red Hut features an espresso bean mix straight from Italy, local roasts, blended drinks, frozen yogurt and scrumptious bakery items. For tea lovers, their Numi tea line is sure to please.

Are you looking for a little indulgence in your version of Phoenix living? Located near the Phoenix Art Museum, Giant Coffee serves well-mixed custom lattes and single-origin brews. Repeat customers call out Giant’s Honey Vanilla Latte as a local favorite.

Not ready to sleep? Need a stimulating, creative environment? Jobot Coffee is open all night on weekends and until midnight during the week. The punk and hard rock music will get your blood pumping as you enjoy great conversation on their awesome patio. Jobot’s brunch and delicious breakfast sandwiches have been called out in regional “best of” lists time after time.

Delicious dessert-style coffee and a fabulous in-house bakery must mean that you’re at Lola Coffee. This temple of the bean has a quieter atmosphere. Lola specializes in artisan roasts and will never disappoint. Their impressive latte art is an added bonus to a superb selection of drinks and baked goods.

Songbird Coffee & Tea House features robust pour over coffee and the best loose leaf teas. Central Phoenix area residents will love the variety of live and recorded music. Their soundtrack includes some great classic rock and guitar greats as well as independent and emerging local artists. They’ll even throw in a little Frank Sinatra on occasion. Songbird is found right near Roosevelt Row, the city’s thriving art district.

Cartel Coffee Lab is known far and wide for their carefully roasted brews. The well-educated team of baristas and expert roasters provide coffee education with your delicious java. Cartel has celebrity status and it’s not out of the norm for Hollywood A-listers to pick up their supply of beans here. Cartel has several locations valley-wide and boasts about their microbrewery at their Tempe location.

If your idea of Phoenix living must include a magical cup of coffee, you will certainly find it at one of the above local favorites. For more information on finding your perfect neighborhood and Phoenix home, contact us today!

3 Benefits of Having an HOA

If you know someone who owns real estate in Phoenix, they have probably mentioned having a Home Owners’ Association (HOA). While your friend may have had a complaint or two revolving around their HOA management, it’s more common that HOAs are of great value to investors and residents! Here are a few reasons you want an HOA.

Neighborhood Order

We’ve all driven through neighborhoods that have residents of questionable habits. Some let their weeds grow feet high, store miscellaneous bulky items everywhere or maybe even have a long-term broken vehicle (or two!) in the driveway. They may let their dog roam unsupervised to leave gifts in random neighborhood yards or throw their trash anywhere.  An HOA helps prevent those types of activities from occurring. The result is a much more attractive and comfortable neighborhood that you’ll be proud to live in.

Common Areas

Many areas with HOA-controlled real estate in Phoenix have beautiful common areas such as parks, pools, ramadas and areas that all residents can enjoy. These lovely landscapes are not only provided by the HOA but are also maintained well, all without you lifting a finger. Streets are cleaned regularly and the curbside landscaping is well kept. Some HOAs also host events for the residents so that you can get to know people nearby, both for safety and for socializing.

Preserving Home Values

One of the most important benefits that an HOA provides is realized when you are ready to sell your real estate in Phoenix. Because HOAs are strict about cleanliness, maintenance and overall neighborhood attractiveness, your home will hold its value and most likely grow your investment. You won’t have to worry about a rogue neighbor painting their house a terrible color or erecting a giant statue within eyesight of your property, driving your home value down.

Home Owners’ Associations provide many positive perks. When purchasing real estate in Phoenix, ask if the property is under an HOA and be sure that you read the rules of that HOA. By knowing the expectations and requirements, you’ll be happy and comfortable in your new place. Talk to us about your next home and whether an HOA neighborhood is right for you!