Kevin's Blog

8150 E. Broadway, Echo Ridge Co-op, Tucson Real Estate with Mountain Views

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 10:46:03 -0600

Kevin Wood | Realty Executives Southern Arizona | 520.260.3123

8150 E. Broadway, Tucson, AZ

Mountain Views! Excellent Location!

2BR/1BA Co-Op

offered at $39,900

Year Built	1964
Sq Footage	800
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	1 Uncovered spaces
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$211 per month

DESCRIPTION

Range pricing-Seller will except or counter offers between $39,900 - $49,900. Terrific location! Overlooks pool and well manicured grounds. Screened porch off master with mountain views, cozy and quaint home at an excellent price. Cash only please. No financing.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Family room	- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Swimming pool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Guest parking

- Laundry on-site

- Swimming pool(s)

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Immaculate Grounds

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4

Contact info:

Kevin Wood

Realty Executives Southern Arizona

520.260.3123

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 11, 2009, 7:29am PST

1942 Duvall Vista, Solid Brick Tucson Real Estate for under $70,000 and... 10 minutes to U of A and 1/2 mile to I 10

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:10:22 -0500

Kevin Wood | Realty Executives Southern Arizona | kevin@homesinfotucson.com | 520.260.3123

1942 Duvall Vista, Tucson, AZ

Short Drive to U of A, 1/2 Mile to I 10

2BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $69,900

Year Built	1953
Sq Footage	816
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	1 Covered spaces
Lot Size	6,229 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Solid brick home! Quaint place to call home or terrific rental/investment property

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Living room	- Dryer
- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Covered parking

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Large Fenced backyard

- Huge Covered Patio

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 1
Photo 2	Photo 3
Photo 4	Photo 2

Contact info:

Kevin Wood

Realty Executives Southern Arizona

kevin@homesinfotucson.com

520.260.3123

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 19, 2009, 8:55pm PDT

Large 4/2 SE Tucson Home with Huge Backyard and Lake Nearby

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 13:17:34 -0500

Kevin Wood | Realty Executives Southern Arizona | 520.260.3123

3212 S. Mormon Drive, Tucson, AZ

Well Cared For with Wide Open Floor Plan and Huge Backyard

4BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $119,900

Year Built	1974
Sq Footage	1,566
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	3 Covered spaces
Lot Size	11,761 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Wide open floorplan with plenty of room. 4 bedroom plus den, living room, dining area and family room. Huge backyard with large wood shed. No neighbors behind and with rear access. Just down the street from the lake too. Well cared for, quality home at an excellent price.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor
- Living room	- Bonus/Rec room	- Office/Den
- Dining room	- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher
- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Covered parking	- Storage space(s)	- Lake
- Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Just down the road from "Lake"Crest Park

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4

Contact info:

Kevin Wood

Realty Executives Southern Arizona

520.260.3123

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 29, 2009, 9:34am PDT

Bedford Community Stadium Bell Heard in Tucson, AZ following Football Win!

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:50:37 -0500

Bedford Community Stadium Bell Heard in Tucson, AZ following Football Win!

It was just after 6:30 MST out here in the desert as I waited anxiously for a call. It's Friday night and in the Wood family that has always meant it's football Friday. This was no typical week though. Jeff , Dad, and the rest of the coaching staff were squaring off with a Ann Arbor Pioneer and I knew since last Friday's win that this game was simply HUGE! They were undefeated. They were ranked 6th in the state. And they were coming to our house.

Finally the call came and it was Dad. "Did you win, Did you win" I asked. We scored with 36 seconds to go in the game, We won 28-21. with that he passed me to Jeff who shared in the elation. I could hear and feel the energy in the background and wished to be there. Either way I'm so happy for Jeff, Dad, the coaching staff, and players for reaching out achieving what they believed. Good luck next week Bedford! Keep working hard and Take it one snap at a time.

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I'm Kevin Wood of Realty Executives, and I'm the author of this post. You can reach me through email at kwood@gotucson.com , 520.260.3123, or visit my website at HomesInfoTucson.com. I have helped people just like you move in and out of Tucson for over 4 years. In a previous career, I represented Honda Automobile Corporation in Toledo, Ohio for 10 years. During that time, I placed among the top 5% of all sales consultants nationwide for overall client satisfaction and volume. My office is conveniently located on Kolb Road 1/4 mile south of Tanque Verde.

Rita Ranch Report: Tucson, Arizona Real Estate Activity September 2009

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 23:38:44 -0500

Rita Ranch Report: Tucson, Arizona Real Estate Activity September 2009

The last 30 days of sales activity in Southeast Tucson is consistent with the rest of the city. Only one home sold for over $200,000. 212,000 to be exact. The first time homebuyer tax credit has helped considerably by giving $8,000 to buyers and don't look for it to change until November 30th, 2009. Or, perhaps longer if it's extended.

12 of the 21 homes that sold did so in less than 60 days and at 98.42% of asking price. Which is contrary to the popular myth that heavy discounting is necessary to sell your home in todays market.

The other 9 homes required anywhere from 60 to over 120 days to sell and for less. On average these homes sold for $2,250 less or about 1.5% of the purchase price.

9 homes that did sell were either bank owned or a short sale. No surprises here as the last year at least 50% of transactions have a bank involved in Southern Arizona. However, many parts of the country have begun to see this prime inventory drying up.

If there were a couple things a potential home seller can do to improve their odds of a sale it's having a clean, uncluttered home that requires no visible major repairs. Keep in mind most buyers have never owned a home and want to move right in. And if the home requires major repairs this may present may make it harder for them to acquire a loan.

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I'm Kevin Wood of Realty Executives, and I'm the author of this post. You can reach me through email at kwood@gotucson.com , 520.260.3123, or visit my website at HomesInfoTucson.com. I have helped people just like you move in and out of Tucson for over 4 years. In a previous career, I represented Honda Automobile Corporation for 10 years. During that time, I placed among the top 5% of all sales consultants nationwide for overall client satisfaction and volume. My office is conveniently located on Kolb Road 1/4 mile south of Tanque Verde.

Tucson Real Estate: August 2009, The New Game the Banks are Playing with Short Sales and Foreclosures

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 02:06:03 -0500

Tucson Real Estate: August 2009, Strategic Games Banks are Playing with Short Sales and Foreclosures

The best part of our current market is the learning curve. It's on a vertical plane and new wrinkles emerge each day. And for those of us who have endured the last few years of challenges, 2009 has brought a wave of first time buyers and investors.

What we didn't see coming was the reality that the banks would control nearly 70% of the inventory for sale. As of late that has posed a strategical opportunity and here's why: Banks are continuing to receive back more foreclosed homes that they need to sell off. They possess literally thousands of homes that would sell in the $125,000-$175,000 range.

Well guess what, that just happens to be the most active segment of the market by far?

I recently worked with a family that needed an 1800 square foot home with 4 bedrooms for under $145,000. Who in the heck wouldn't want this home. So whenever these types of homes became available there would be 5 buyers ready to make an offer. And, we lost out on at least a half dozen homes because so many buyers want this same deal.

In addition, when there are 5 buyers making an offer on the same home the final selling price ends being higher than the original asking price, thereby minimizing the banks losses. So the question is why would the banks be in any hurry to put all the best inventory they have on the market at the same time?

Answer: They wouldn't. Their sandbagging big time by waiting for the best inventory to sell before bringing more of the good stuff to market.

Is there anything that says they can't? No, in fact in some ways its good because it creates urgency and causes buyers to act. You see before the market can change direction when it comes to value, it must sell off nearly all the bank owned inventory. Because when the number of homes for sale is less than the number of buyers in the market, you have a beautiful thing which is greater demand for homes then homes available for sale. AKA Better demand than Supply. When that happens your homes value goes in one direction. UP!

We do have about a year and a half to go yet before the banks get anywhere near selling off the majority of this inventory. Months before loan modifications became available, 2009 was expected to pass 2008 as the year with the largest number of foreclosures. And so far it appears that will happen. My prediction is the tax credit will get extended until late 2010 to keep the momentum going and give the necessary time to the countless buyers waiting to close on short sales that take at least several months to close on.

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I'm Kevin Wood of Realty Executives, and I'm the author of this post. You can reach me through email at kwood@gotucson.com , 520.260.3123, or visit my website at HomesInfoTucson.com. I have helped people just like you move in and out of Tucson for over 4 years. In a previous career, I represented Honda Automobile Corporation for 10 years. During that time, I placed among the top 5% of all sales consultants nationwide for overall client satisfaction and volume. My office is conveniently located on Kolb Road 1/4 mile south of Tanque Verde.

Tax Credit and Short Sales: The clock is Ticking

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 23:53:50 -0500

Tax Credit and Short Sales: The Clock is Ticking

If this face isn't enough to extend the tax credit deadline I don't know what is? But we all know it cooommming unless of course we stick to bank owned and normal resales for a bit. Knowing that 1 out of 5 homes under contract are short sales how can Uncle Sam not feel the pressure and get speedy legislation requiring the banks to move faster or else find an alternative to make Jolene Consumer happy. Yes, that may mean the banks need to hire more qualified staff to handle the enormous workload in an efficient manner. I understand they're learning as they go, but it's been nearly 3 years of this so far and little has changed with the big boys. However, in defense of many smaller lenders the efficiency or turnaround times have improved by leaps and bounds. Heck I've seen and heard some close in 45 days.

The truth is they can't and shouldn't be avoided if we're fulfilling the ethical standards of our profession. People in this situation need our expertise more than anyone. So, I'll deal with that face as long as I can look at mine in the mirror when the day is done.

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I'm Kevin Wood of Realty Executives, and I'm the author of this post. You can reach me through email at kwood@gotucson.com , 520.260.3123, or visit my website at HomesInfoTucson.com. I have helped people just like you move in and out of Tucson for over 4 years. In a previous career, I represented Honda Automobile Corporation for 10 years. During that time, I placed among the top 5% of all sales consultants nationwide for overall client satisfaction and volume. My office is conveniently located on Kolb Road 1/4 mile south of Tanque Verde.

From One Extreme to the Other

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 17:02:13 -0500

I recieved a big surprise Wednesday morning when I learned that a home I was reprsenting the seller on appraised for $25,000 less than the contract price. This was the same home we priced $15,000 less than the two best sold comps a couple months earlier. What left me dumbfounded was these same two comps didn't even make it to the appraisal and they were closest in square feet, floorplan , and subdivision quality. What gives?? My biggest challenge is that most appraisers are under the incorrect assumption that they CANNOT have a conversation with the Realtors involved. It's permitted as long as the subject property is not discussed in any way, shape, or form. So why the roadblocks when I try to reach the appraiser and ask a couple simple questions, like why were the two most comparable homes that sold recently left out of your report? Or, why is the contract price on your report off by $15,000?

My point here is that I've realized that it's my responsiblity to go a step further and help to acquaint the appraiser with the area by putting together an appraiser welcome kit at the subject property, by including items like the comps used to determine selling price and details about all comparable listings and sales in the area. Let's face it they simply don't know the story behind house around the corner that's still for sale and for less money. And we do. We're in a time and place where things must be done that in any other market wouldn't be necessary. Sure, I'm bummed my deal fell apart, but now I know what to do to combat against this in the future. I love the market now because of things like this. The learning curve is on a vertical plane and that's something we don't get to experience enough.

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I'm Kevin Wood of Realty Executives, and I'm the author of this post. You can reach me through email at kwood@gotucson.com , 520.260.3123, or visit my website at HomesInfoTucson.com. I have helped people just like you move in and out of Tucson for over 4 years. In a previous career, I represented Honda Automobile Corporation for 10 years. During that time, I placed among the top 5% of all sales consultants nationwide for overall client satisfaction and volume. My office is conveniently located on Kolb Road 1/4 mile south of Tanque Verde.

April 2009 Real Estate Market Report: Vail, Rita Ranch, Mesquite Ranch, and Corona De Tucson

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:44:31 -0500

April 2009 Real Estate Market Report: Southeast Tucson, Arizona

here's just one of the many reasons to live in Southern Arizona.

So, let's talk Real Estate and the numbers for a minute. Compared to last year, the facts and figures are pretty consistent. This report covers Vail, Rita Ranch, Civano, Mesquite Ranch, and Corona De Tucson, Arizona. Each of these large communities and/or subdivisions make up the 85747 and 85641 zip codes.

For the month of April 2009, 52 homes were sold for a total of $12,402,651. Of these sales 16 were bank owned or short sales.( Short sales are when the bank allows a borrower to sell for less than the mortgage balance) That means 31% of the homes sold had a bank involved to sell the home.

This same month last year, or April 2008, 51 homes were sold for $11,905,250. 10 of which banks were involved in the sale to sell.

As of May 4th, 2009 there are 416 homes available for sale, 93 of which are either bank owned or short sales.

From my perspective the tone has changed in the last 45 days. My office is busy, as our the other agents that conduct business there. It's a great sign and goes to show that with excellent selection and terrific pricing coupled with the lowest rates in 5 decades, something is bound to give.

One last stat I wanted to share for anyone selling their home or thinking of selling. Homes that had an accepted contract within the first 30 days of listing it, received 98.31% of asking price. However, homes that had an accepted contract from day 31 through day 60 of being on the market received 94.76% of asking price. Wow! What a difference timing and pricing make.

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I'm Kevin Wood of Realty Executives, and I'm the author of this post. You can reach me through email at kwood@gotucson.com , 520.260.3123, or visit my website at HomesInfoTucson.com. I have helped people just like you move in and out of Tucson for nearly 4 years. In a previous career, I represented Honda Automobile Corporation for 10 years. During that time, I placed among the top 5% of all sales consultants nationwide for overall client satisfaction and volume. My office is conveniently located on Kolb Road 1/4 mile south of Tanque Verde

Tucson Golf: Fred Enke Golf Course and Practice Facility

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 13:22:10 -0500

With 38 courses to choose from it's always a challenge to decide where to spend the week playing. For most people visiting from the east where colder temps prevail, you may need a slight tune up before hitting the course. There's no better place in town to prepare your game for some desert golf than Fred Enke. Fred Enke offers one of the best practice areas throughout Tucson. Unless of course you're travelling to the high rent district of Ventana Canyon or The Gallery. Most courses have at least a driving range to get a clue how your hitting it that day with the long clubs, but few offer a wedge range, large chipping and pitching area with a large green and two putting greens to go along with it. The cool thing is, you have awesome views of the Catalina and the Rincon Mountain ranges, too.

As for the course, Fred Enke is one Tucson's Municipal Courses and it's the only one that offers true desert golf. Which simply means, get off the grass and you'll usually find your ball behind or inside some shrub, prickly pear cactus, or desert broom. Whatever it is, it's not a good place to be. In fact, most of locals carry a "desert club" because the desert floor is like hitting a shot off your driveway and that tends to leave a mark or three on your club. Anyhow, this course has several slight dogleg par fours that require good placement off the tee to set up short iron second shots. The par three's vary in distance, from 115 to 185 yards, each with greens that offer average size targets. As for the par fives, they offer the best green contours on the course. Which makes for some fun putts.

In the vicinity of this course you'll find a few other places of interest. Some parts of the golf course are in viewing distance of the Air Force Boneyard, where thousands of retired military aircraft cover the desert floor. In addition, Fantasy Island, mountain biking trail is within a 1/2 mile of the course, too. This is a single track riding course designed by mountain bikers for mountain bikers. Lastly, the Pima Air and Space Museum is within minutes as well.

Here's a shot of the wedge range, which has three greens that range in distance up to 115 yards. Also, a great place to catch some views of the desert wildlife, like bobcats, roadrunner, ground squirrels, and if you're really lucky a western diamondback rattlesnake.

Tucson Golf Tip: One thing to keep in mind as you play golf in here in the Sonoran Desert is that the city of Tucson is at an elevation of about 2500 feet above sea level. That means you're ball is going to travel farther than normal. How much you ask? About 5% more, or 5 more yards per 100 yards of distance. You can see as you get into your longer clubs, it will make for some club selection decisions.

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I'm Kevin Wood of Realty Executives, and I'm the author of this post. You can reach me through email at kwood@gotucson.com , 520.260.3123, or visit my website at HomesInfoTucson.com. I have helped people just like you move in and out of Tucson for nearly 4 years. In a previous career, I represented Honda Automobile Corporation for 10 years. During that time, I placed among the top 5% of all sales consultants nationwide for overall client satisfaction and volume. My office is conveniently located on Kolb Road 1/4 mile south of Tanque Verde

Tucson, Arizona From Shelter to Showplace: A Residential History Of Tucson

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 13:57:57 -0500

Tucson, Arizona Real Estate

There's nothing quite like saying one thing a doing another. Yesterday I had the privlidge of taking a class at the Hogan School of Real Estate that dug deep into the roots of Tucson. Anyone, Realtor or not who has any interest in history will enjoy what Alex Kimmelman has to show and tell. So, back to this Restaurant in the photo, what does it have to do with Residential Real Estate History? Well, not only is it the nation's oldest restaurant but it all began in a home. If you ever visit Tucson, pop in for lunch or dinner at El Charro, one of the areas most popular places.

One of the biggest challenges facing home builders in the early days was the lack of natural resources. There are trees in Southern Arizona, but not of the hardwood variety, like what you would find in the eastern United States. It left the settlers with just the ground they walked on. And that turned out to be an excellent source of material to create adobe bricks, which in turn were used to build adobe homes.

In 1880, the railroad arrived and with it came lumber to build a home with something other than mud adobe. The railroad broke the poverty of this region for two reasons. First, materials and secondly more people made their way west on trains, which increased population. More people, more homes to build, more jobs, more money to spend. What a concept!

El Encanto Home, one of many Tucson homes and Neighborhoods on the National Registry of Historic Places

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I'm Kevin Wood of Realty Executives, and I'm the author of this post. You can reach me through email at kwood@gotucson.com , 520.260.3123, or visit my website at HomesInfoTucson.com. I have helped people just like you move in and out of Tucson for nearly 4 years. In a previous career, I represented Honda Automobile Corporation for 10 years. During that time, I placed among the top 5% of all sales consultants nationwide for overall client satisfaction and volume. My office is conveniently located on Kolb Road 1/4 mile south of Tanque Verde

C-130 Going Strong Since 1956

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 13:14:41 -0500

C-130 Going Strong Since 1956

The C-130 first rolled off production lines in 1956 and has been an Air Force Regular ever since. It's service is continuing to expand due to the flexibility of the aircraft. Mostly used for airlift missions of troops, vehicles, and gear, the C-130 must be versatile because each flight may require a different use of it's cargo area. Using it's aft loading ramp and door it can accomodate large armored vehicles, helicopters, and oversized cargo with the capability of air dropping loads up to 42,000 pounds.

Built by Lockheed Martin and equipped with 4 Allison or Rolls Royce Turbo Prop Engines the C-130J can cruise at a maximum speed of over 400 mph and still carry up to 164,000 pounds of cargo.

Although, my hometown of Tucson, AZ and Davis Monthan is not listed as a C-130 base, we see plenty in the air everyday.

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The information above was written by Kevin Wood of Realty Executives. Kevin can be reached via email at Kwood@gotucson.com or 520.260.3123. Kevin has helped people move in and out of Tucson for nearly 4 years. In his previous career he represented Honda Automobile Corporation for 10 years and was among the top 5% of all sales consultants nationwide for overall client satisfaction and volume. Kevin's office is conveniently located on Kolb Road 1/4 mile south of Tanque Verde.

Davis Monthan Air Force Base, Tucson, Arizona: Home of the acrobatic A-10

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 23:48:38 -0500

Davis Monthan Air Force Base, Tucson, AZ: Home of the acrobatic A-10

We've lived in Southeast Tucson in the Rita Ranch area for nearly four years and have come to enjoy the regular training of the ultra quiet and versatile A-10. Also known as the "Warthog" it's one of several different aircraft that frequent the skies near our home and the easiest to recognize. The A-10 possess two distinct features that you can see from the ground. First, are the two cylinder shaped engines located behind the wings. Secondly, is the tail wing. It has two vertical wings, whereas the vast majority of aircraft have just one.

The A-10 was designed and produced for close air support of ground forces, and against all ground targets, including tanks and armored vehicles. One of it's most unique features to watch is it's manuevability at low altitude and and slower air speeds. This is especially cool to watch when they take of and land because it seems they rarely fly a straight course. It's more like the exact opposite.

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The Daily Reminder

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:30:53 -0600

Each day in Tucson, AZ I have the privlidge and honor of driving by the Davis Monthan Air Force Boneyard. It's 75 acres of retired U.S Military aircraft that sits on the hard desert floor on the Southeast side of Tucson. I think about the men and women of our armed forces who maintain, fly, and fight for our freedom in the same type of jets and aircraft that just sit idle along side of one of Tucsons' busiest streets. You frequently see visitors photgraphing this incredible spectacle because of the effect it has on them. As I drive into my office in the morning and watch the sun set behind thousands of aircraft in the afternoon it reminds me never, ever to take anything for granted. People give the biggest sacrifice of all and continue to do so every single day somewhere around the globe for you and me. Thank you to all who serve our country in each of the armed forces.

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Southeast Tucson and Vail Arizona Real Estate Market Report: December 2008

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 12:35:56 -0600

Southeast Tucson and Vail Arizona Real Estate Market Report: December 2008

Despite the decline in value across this zip code area, the home sales quantity is consistent with 2007. This is great news because the real numbers tell a different story than what the media has been saying for the last few months. In addition, mortgage markets have caused a drop in interest rates which has brought buyers back looking for a new home and the great deals that are available.

Sellers are not as bad off as everyone seems to think, especially if you're looking to replace your existing home with another home here in the Old Pueblo or anywhere for that matter. Think about it for a moment. Let's say you sell a home for $200,000 today that was worth $250,000 at the peak of the market. but you turn around a buy a larger, more desireable home for $290,000 that at the peak of the market was worth $360.000. Even if you're downsizing the same holds true, because your dollar is able to get more for less money. Unless you owe you're home free and clear, the only loss taken was on paper.

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The information above was written by Kevin Wood of Realty Executives. Kevin can be reached via email at Kwood@gotucson.com or 520.260.3123. Kevin has helped people move in and out of Tucson for nearly 4 years. In his previous career he represented Honda Automobile Corporation for 10 years and was among the top 5% of all sales consultants nationwide for customer satisfaction and and volume. Kevin's office is conveniently located on Kolb Road just south of Tanque Verde.

Tucson and Vail, Arizona Foreclosures Report: January 2009

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 11:59:10 -0600

Tucson and Vail, Arizona Foreclosure and Short Sale Report: Jan. 2009

The new year was ushered in with strong activity. 75 New bank owned and short sale listings have hit the market since January 1st, 2009. And with it many buyers have come out as well to take advantage of the excellent market conditions, which include low interest rates. Below you'll find just some of the latest and greatest properties that the banks are anxious to sell. If you'd enjoy seeing a complete list of all foreclosure and short sale properties that meet your specific area of town, criteria and needs, Simply click the link provided.

The information above was written by Kevin Wood of Realty Executives. Kevin can be reached via email at Kwood@gotucson.com or 520.260.3123. Kevin has helped people move in and out of Tucson for nearly 4 years. In his previous career he represented Honda Automobile Corporation for 10 years and was among the top 5% of all sales consultants nationwide for customer satisfaction and and volume. Kevin's office is conveniently located on Kolb Road just south of Tanque Verde.

Tucson, Arizona Real Estate: Investor's Corner, Learn it, Know it, Use it

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 12:56:15 -0600

Tucson, Arizona Real Estate: Investor's Corner, Learn it, Know it, Use it

Not everyone I'm serving right now has to buy a house, but they want to because they know just how great of a SALE that's going on in the Real Estate market. For the investor, their objective is to accomplish the greatest amount of cash flow and equity possible. And in order to do this, they must buy below market value and know competitive rental rates to see how much cash flow will be created if they plan on using the home as a rental. Some investors are buying now, only to turn around and sell after they perform a facelift on the home. This article however, will focus on the investor who's intention is to use the property as a rental.

What strategy do real estate investors use to profit from owning a second or third home? Checkout the example below for more details on how this works. For starters, remember that a smart investor will only buy a home, townhouse, or condo if he/she can purchase it for at least 15-20% below market value.

In this case say that you're buying a home worth $125,000 for $95,000.

Here's the breakdown of your expenses and income

20% down payment on $95,000 means you'll finance $76,000.

Your mortgage payment at 7.5% interest will be $531 per month plus taxes and insurance. Which would be approximately $135 per month for a home of this value. That equals $666 per month. In addition, the average maintenance cost for a home is $50 per month or $600 per year. Combining those two figures equals $716 per month.

This property will rent for $900 per month, Putting $184 in your pocket monthly or $2200 per year. That's a 11.6% return on your initial investment of $19000. And that's not all!

Here's the kicker: 1) Any and all mortgage interest paid is tax deductible even if someone else is paying it for you. 2) All repair expenses for the property are tax deductible, 3) And last but certainly not least, you have $30,000 of equity because you bought this home for 95,000 and it's market value is $125,000.

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The article provided above was written by Kevin Wood of Realty Executives. Kevin can be reached via email at Kwood@gotucson.com , HomesInfoTucson.com or 520.260.3123. Kevin has helped people move in and out of Tucson for nearly 4 years. In his previous career he represented Honda Automobile Corporation for 10 years and was in the top 5% of all sales consultants nationwide. Kevin's office is conveniently located on Kolb Road just south of Tanque Verde.

Tucson, Arizona Real Estate Market Report, November 2008

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 12:53:28 -0600

Tucson, Arizona Real Estate Market Report for November 2008

As we near the end of 2008 we can see that November has followed seasonal trends and expect that December will do the same. The latest and greatest news comes from the mortgage markets where FHA loan rates dropped to 4.75% for a 30 year fixed mortgage and conventional loans are 5.0%. Another sign that owning a home is not only a smart move but an affordable one at that. In addition, with rates this low refinancing your existing home could be an option as well.

Here's a few important numbers to check out that show how the past month compared to the same month last year.

Home sales volume for November 2008 was $137,104,343 compared to $216,102,902 a year ago.

Average Sales price for November 2008 was $215,913 compared to $266,794 for 2007.

Pending contracts for November 2008 are 677 compared to 910 for 2007.

Active Listings for November 2008 are 7,996 compared to 9,234 for 2007.

Home Sales Units for November 2008 were 635 compared to 810 for 2007.

Median Home sales price for November 2008 $178,000 compared to $212,000 for 2007.

The information provided below are the statistics for all residential types, in and around Tucson which include Single family homes, manufactured single family home, townhome, condominium, and new construction sales for all types. Find your zip code to learn how much sales activity happened right near you.

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The Tucson Arizona Market Report above was provided by Kevin Wood of Realty Executives. Kevin can be reached via email at Kwood@gotucson.com, HomesInfoTucson.com, or 520.260.3123. Kevin has helped people move in and out of Tucson for nearly 4 years. Kevin's office is conveniently located on Kolb Road just south of Tanque Verde.

Tucson, Arizona Market Report October 2008

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 11:08:13 -0600

Tucson East, Southeast, Vail, and Corona De Tucson, Arizona Market Report for October 2008

October 2008 closed sales are just slightly down from a year ago, however most other categories that define local real estate activity are down significantly. The constant force in the value of all local residences is the presence of bank owned or foreclosure homes in nearly all neighborhoods. One of every seven homes for sale is bank owned. This reality proves great for first time home buyers, but sellers who purchased just three years ago are taking losses of 25% and in some cases even more. So, if you don't have to move, stay put. If you've ever considered adding real estate investing to your portfolio by buying another home to use as a rental, now is the time to enter the market.

Here's a few important numbers to check out that show how the past month compared to the same month last year.

Home sales volume for October 2008 was $186, 356, 109 compared to $229, 448, 467 a year ago.

Average Sales price for October 2008 was $226,435 compared to $259,557 for 2007.

Pending contracts for October 2008 are 755 compared to 993 for 2007.

Active Listings for October 2008 are 7,988 compared to 9,313 for 2007.

Home Sales Units for October 2008 were 823 compared to 884 for 2007.

Are you thinking of Buying or Selling a home in Tucson.... find even more detailed local info about Vail and other popular Tucson, Arizona housing communities by reaching Kevin Wood, Realty Executive, at Kevin@HomesInfoTucson.com 520.260.3123, or HomesInfoTucson.com.

Mike Jones Spotted Holding Rubber Chicken!

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 01:07:15 -0600

Mike Jones, Tucson Lender, inducted into BNI Thomas Morgan Professional Partner's Chapter November 26th, 2008

Mike Jones seen here holding the famous PP Chicken!

Last Wednesday at the Taco Bron on Tanque Verde, the BNI Thomas Morgan Professional Partners Chapter inducted their newest member. Accepting this honored tradition in style, Mike had it making sounds we've never heard before while reciting the Code of Ethics.

Mike is a tremendous networker. He's always looking for ways to help people whether on the Rain or out on the streets. Mike brings an ability to make everyone feel at ease and important. In addition, his past business experience will be an excellent resource along with his encouraging attitude. He will be a huge asset to an already strong group of business professionals. Welcome Jonesy!

Custom Steel Work by Don Cutman

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 23:48:09 -0600

Custom Steel Work by Don Cutman

If you live in or near Tucson, Arizona and have a need for safety, security. and some creative touches to your home or business there's a great resource in the Old Pueblo. Check out a few examples of his past creations below and give him a call or send an email to get an opinion and a few ideas to warm up your home. He can be reached at 520.440.9077 or dcutman1@cox.net

Protect and enhance any opening.

Get some ideas or give a few to Don to see what he can create just for you.

Horseshoe Plant stand

Rita Ranch and Vail, Arizona Foreclosures Report: October 2008

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 20:05:25 -0500

Ultimate Bargain Hunters List, Tucson and Vail Arizona: Foreclosure and Short Sale Property List

Buying a bank owned home provides an excellent opportunity. In years past, this was a scary prospect at best, but things have changed for the better. The banks are competing against each other to get these homes sold. Even as recent as 5 years ago the number of bank owned homes were in small numbers. The current market has increased quantity and forced the banks to move quickly when pricing this inventory for market. What you'll find in most cases are homes that are priced 5-10% below the rest of comparable homes in the same neighborhood.

Buying Foreclosures is a smart investment. It's important to be active in your search by being prepared to submit an offer when you find the right house. That means to have a signed Pre-Approval Letter from your mortgage consultant or a Loan Status Report. One of these documents must be submitted with the offer to purchase for your offer to be considered by the seller. *****Remember: Buying a home from a bank is no different than buying a home from any other seller.

Foreclosure List as of October 27th, 2008 for Rita Ranch and Vail Arizona

As you can see there are dozens of foreclosures available and this list is for just the Southeast area of Tucson which has a population of about 22,000. If you'd like the address for the above properties or your own customized list for any area in Tucson please request one at no cost or obligation.

In addition, foreclosures are just one way to find great buying opportunities on Real Estate. The lesser known are short sales. Short Sales occur when the Mortgage company or Bank allows a borrower to sell their home for less than the mortgage balance. Hence the term short sale. A short sale transaction generally requires more time to close the deal for various reasons. One of them being the fact that banks have literally thousands of borrowers requesting to sell for less than what they owe. This results in millions of dollars of potential losses for the bank if they choose to allow this course of action. So the banks are trying to service more people than they can handle right now and it simply take a longer.

This information is courtesy of Kevin Wood, Realtor, in Tucson Arizona. You can contact Kevin at 520.260.3123 and Kevin@HomesInfoTucson.com, or visit him at HomesInfoTucson.com.

Tucson, Arizona Homes and Real Estate: Priced Right and Convenient

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 16:15:50 -0500

Rita Ranch is one of Tucson, Arizona's most popular places to call home. It boasts some of the most beautiful Rincon Mountain views anywhere in Tucson.

The majority of Rita Ranch lies West of Houghton Road, just south of Valencia. If you follow Rita Road southwest for about 2 miles from Houghton that will cover the width of the entire community.

Affordability, selection, and Vail Schools are what you'll have by living here. Pricing begins in the $130's with a ceiling of around $325,000. Any size from 1000 square feet to in excess of 3000 is available with a wide variety of floor plans from over a half dozen buiders. Nearly all the homes have at least 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a 2 car garage.

The first home was completed in 1988, although the largest amount of construction occurred between 1995 and 2000. This home built in Silver Pass, one of the communities largest subdivisions is within just a 5 minute drive of the interstate and only 10 minutes to Davis Monthan Air Force Base, just another appealing reason Rita Ranch has over 4400 homes.

Despite it's name there's more than just single story home's in Rita. This beauty has over 2700 square feet of living space, 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The majority of subdivisions have mature vegetation, such as mesquite trees, palo verde trees, and an occasional saguaro cactus. Several landscaping companies promote indigenous solutions for your yard, meaning only plants, shrubs, and tree's common to the Sonoran desert are used. This method minimizes water use and offers a natural look that will last for many years to come.

Vail, Arizona a small city just east of Rita Ranch has 4 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 3 high schools. Planning and strategizing for one the region's fastest growing areas has played a significant role in their success, not to mention unparallelled community support. Desert Willow Elementary, pictured here, located on the Esmond Loop is just minutes from the skate park, fire station, and Purple Heart Park.

The Skate Park is in the center of the community. It's lighted and within walking distance from dozens of subdivisions. Handrails, transition ramps, and plenty of steel coping outline the perimeter of the skating area. Many skilled skateboarders frequent this hotspot due to the variety this park offers. Stop by and check it out, lights out at 9pm.

Purple Heart Park is home to three baseball diamonds, two playgrounds, skate park, walking trail, community swimming pool, and plenty of wide open space.

Are you thinking of Buying or Selling a home in Tucson.... find even more detailed local info about Rita Ranch and other popular Tucson, Arizona housing communities by reaching Kevin Wood, Realty Executive, at Kevin@HomesInfoTucson.com, 520.260.3123, or HomesInfoTucson.com.

Fix Up and Bank Owned Homes In Tucson and Vail, Arizona

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:48:26 -0500

Fix up and Bank owned homes present an excellent value especially in today's brisk real estate market. The best part is the large amount of inventory available. This selection even in the most desired areas has provided hundreds of first time home buyers and investors fantastic opportunities.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON FIX UP AND FORECLOSURE PROPERTIES VISIT TUCSON'S ULTIMATE BARGAIN HUNTERS PROPERTY LIST. It's FREE and there's no obligation to reference every foreclosure, fix up, and motivated seller property in and around the city.

Exterior slump block in perfect condition. The bathroom was missing the vanity and a light fixture.

Carpet replacement and light fixture replacement needed in all rooms.

Huge great room with new tile and plenty of living space.

There are hundreds of homes just like this one throughout the city. Some need minor work, like paint and carpet. However, I do see severe cases as well. Things like the furnace or kitchen cabinets are missing. Each house presents an opportunity for creativity, imagination, and a great deal.

This information was provided by Kevin Wood, Realtor, in Tucson, AZ. To view homes throughout the city simply click here. Or if you'd like to reach me just call or email me at 520. 260. 3123 or Kwood@gotucson.com.

Mike in Tucson just Turned 60!

Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Realty Executives) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 18:14:10 -0500

Mikey is officially 60!

It's no myth, he's really that friendly, he's always the guy looking for ways to help other people succeed, yes, his camera is always attached at the hip, he really is willing to try pretty much anything because he really is that passionate about Livin Life to the fullest every day in every way! Give this man some Love everybody! He deserves it!

So mark your calendars 9/24 for the record. That's Mike big day!

God Bless You Mike!