Stephanie Pitel's Valley Real Estate Blog

Home for sale in Sun City, AZ

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 23:53:23 -0600

15401 N. Lakeforest Dr., Sun City, AZ

Enjoy Sun City Living!

2BR/2BA Townhouse

offered at $99,900

Year Built	1972
Sq Footage	1,204
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$170 per month

DESCRIPTION

Move-in ready, well maintained home with neutral colors throughout. Nice sized living room, dining area with sliding glass door opening to screened Arizona room w/AZ shade cloth(sunscreen) for privacy while enjoying the greenbelt views. Kitchen with lots of cabinets and counter space. Tile flooring in kitchen, baths, and laundry. Easy access to the 101 HWY, restaurants, shopping, and sports complex.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Tile floor
- Family room	- Dining room	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Microwave
- Washer	- Dryer	- Laundry area - inside
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Clubhouse

- Swimming pool(s)

- Sauna/Spa

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Screened Porch

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior	Family Room
Kitchen	Kitchen
Kitchen	Screened porch

Contact info:

The Beck and Pitel Team

HomeSmart Real Estate

info@valleyrealestatepros.com

602-507-3685

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 13, 2009, 8:29pm PST

New Listing in Sun City, AZ

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 19:46:17 -0500

The Beck and Pitel Team | HomeSmart Real Estate | 602-507-3685

17803 N. Palo Verde Dr., Sun City, AZ

Large home with screened in porch

2BR/1.5BA Single Family House

offered at $168,888

Year Built	1978
Sq Footage	1,827
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	1 full, 1 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	.2 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Lovely, move-in ready home, Annapolis model with upgrades throughout. Enjoy the updated kitchen with smooth-top range,wall oven,french door refrigerator included, tile countertops, garden window overlooking large Arizona room, recessed lighting. Familyrm with wall of built-ins. Canadian cedar ceilings in kitchen,familyrm & master bedroom add nice custom touch. Updated bathrooms.Tile flooring and parquet flooring throughout except carpeted Living/formal dining. Screened Arizona room with built-ins, ceiling fan, electric & water for hot tub if desired.Large laundry room, washer/dryer included. Double garage with cabinets.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Living room	- Bonus/Rec room
- Dining room	- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Microwave
- Washer	- Dryer	- Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior	Entry
Formal Living Room	Formal Dining Room
Kitchen	Screened Porch

Contact info:

The Beck and Pitel Team

HomeSmart Real Estate

602-507-3685

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 8, 2009, 4:30pm PDT

Phoenix Area Business Owners – Your Board of Directors Event Next Week

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:53:04 -0500

“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Proverbs 15:22 (NIV)

As independent or small business owners, we typically fill most, or all, of the job descriptions for our business. And when we're busy working in our business, we often don't have the time, or even energy, to work on our business.

Your Board of Directors is sharing their expertise on September 23, 2009, at the 3rd Quarter 2009 Informational Seminar held in Goodyear, Arizona. You will receive guidance on how to stay focused on revenue generating activities with strategies for reducing your administrative activities. Topics include:

Organizational standards
Technology standards
Financial reviews
Marketing strategies
Business insurance

and how these areas impact your bottom line.

This $250 value is yours for only $75, with $25 refunded at the door. Only advance registrations are accepted and space is limited. Visit the website for more information: YourDirectors.com or call 623-444-2395.

Your Directors Panel:

Deb Morgaina - Productivity Expert

Dave Carattini - Business Technology Expert

Linda Kay Andrews - Small Business Bookkeeping

Randy Akers - Business Insurance Specialist

Carol Cox - Marketing/Website Consultant

Graphic provided by Your Board of Directors

Has your roof done its job this monsoon season?

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 11:19:44 -0500

The high winds that we see every year during the monsoon season can damage your roof so it is important to visually inspect your roof after every storm. Some roofs will lose shingles and others may lose tiles. The result of this kind of damage is likely to be water getting into your attic which may or may not be evident inside of your house. When a roof leak becomes evident inside your home it is possible that your roof has been leaking for some time. There may be extensive damage by then. This is why it is so important to inspect your roof on a regular basis.

It is important to inspect your roof at least once a year. A roof inspection should include looking at all roof penetrations for any signs of cracking or separation at the tarred portion of the seal. These seals will typically last only two to three years before they need to be resealed.

Debris sitting on your roof can also lead to problems. Whether you have a flat roof or a pitched roof, shingles or tiles, debris sitting on your roof is a problem that should be taken care of as soon as it is identified. Trees near your house will almost always deposit debris on your roof and this debris will interrupt the natural flow of water off of your roof.

Swamp coolers and roof mounted air conditioners are sometimes the source of excessive water exposure on Arizona roof tops. Air conditioners have water condensation drain pipes that can become clogged or broken and swamp coolers can leak water as well. Both of these conditions can lead to excessive water exposure on your roof top. These conditions will rapidly degrade roofing material. If you notice water leaking off your roof top, and it is not raining, it is time for quick action. These conditions can be repaired rather easily so there is no need to panic. Homeowners that are handy with their hands can often repair these items themselves. If not these are good items to have a handyman repair.

With some simple maintenance, you will have the peace of mind that your roof will weather the storms and provide you and your family with the protection they deserve.

These roof maintenance tips and warning signs have been kindly provided by Rictor Contracting, LLC. If you have any questions about your roof, you can reach them at 623-842-5413, or visit their website - www.RictorContracting.com.

SOLD - Bright kitchen, lovely community in Sun City

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 00:04:16 -0500

The Beck and Pitel Team | HomeSmart Real Estate | 602-507-3685

19206 N. Concho Circle, Sun City, AZ

Enjoy Sun City Amenities

2BR/2BA Townhouse

offered at $115,900

Year Built	1977
Sq Footage	1,422
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	.09 acres
HOA/Maint	$174 per month

DESCRIPTION

Lovely, updated home with wall of windows in family room overlooking greenbelt with citrus trees. Newer A/C, microwave, dishwasher and water heater. Neutral tile and carpeting, vertical blinds, and skylights make this home bright and cheery. Tiled screened-in lanai, plus a patio. Garage with room for car and golf cart, built in cabinets. Inside laundry with laundry tub, built-in cabinets. Move in ready!!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Family room
Living room	Dining room	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Washer	Dryer	Laundry area - inside
Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Swimming pool(s)

Sauna/Spa

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4
Photo 5	Photo 6

Contact info:

The Beck and Pitel Team

HomeSmart Real Estate

602-507-3685

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jun 19, 2009, 8:49pm PDT

Single-level, four bedroom home w/RV parking for sale in Glendale, AZ

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Sat, 30 May 2009 12:09:28 -0500

The Beck and Pitel Team | HomeSmart Real Estate | info@valleyrealestatepros.com | 602-507-3685

6322 W Sunnyside Dr, Glendale, AZ - SALE PENDING!

RV Parking, No HOA!

4BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $199,900

Year Built	1981
Sq Footage	2,148
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	8,607 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Lovely home in the Copperwood area & a pleasure to show, not bank owned or a short sale! This well maintained home is move-in ready. A large entryway welcomes you, opens to a formal living & dining room or the large family room w/used brick fireplace, vaulted ceilings. Spacious kitchen with lots of cabinets, skylight, and is open to family room. Split master floorplan, large master bedroom w/vaulted ceilings. Master bath w/separate tub and shower, double sinks, & skylight. Tile flooring throughout except family room and bedrooms. Newer carpeting. Guest bath has been updated.Covered patio overlooks lovely backyard w/grass, large shade tree, grapefruit and orange trees. RV gate & parking. Heating/cooling approx. 3 yrs old, roof & water heater approx. 5 yrs old. NO HOA.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Tile floor
Family room	Living room	Dining room
Dishwasher	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior	Family rm w/fireplace
Spacious kitchen	Large master bath
Covered patio	RV parking

Contact info:

The Beck and Pitel Team

HomeSmart Real Estate

info@valleyrealestatepros.com

602-507-3685

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 30, 2009, 8:50am PDT

Trail maintenance at Thunderbird Conservation Park

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Wed, 06 May 2009 15:05:13 -0500

The mercury is rising! But, morning temperatures are still delightful allowing you to enjoy a hike on one of Thunderbird Conservation Park's 17-miles of trails.

Starting on February 6, trained trail crews from the American Conservation Experience (ACE) have been performing maintenance to the Park's trails. No new trails will be constructed, but maintenance steps such as boulder removal, raking of loose rocks on inclines, tread leveling, installation of erosion controls and more are being done to improve the trails. The crew will work through the end of May (unless the temperatures become too hot). Only short sections of the trails will be closed at a time.

Source: http://www.glendaleaz.com/ParksandRecreation/parksandfacilities/thunderbirdpark.cfm

Dedicated to preserving the desert environment, the 1,185-acre park also offers multiple Ramadas, an amphitheater and four Viewing Blinds – decorative block walls with “windows” for viewing the 50+ different species of wildlife attracted to the man-made water feature.

Open daily from sunrise to sunset - the gates are locked at sunset.

The main entrance is located on 59th Avenue between Deer Valley and Pinnacle Peak roads. Additional parking and entrances are available on 67th Avenue and Patrick Lane, and on Pinnacle Peak east of 55th Avenue. For additional information about the park and a description of the trails visit click here.

Get your pool ready for summer!

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 18:54:11 -0500

We asked pool care expert Billy Whitmore, owner of Summer Breeze Pool & Spa Services, LLC, in Surprise, Arizona, for some tips on getting swimming pools ready for summer. He offered the following F.A.C.T.S:

Filtration
Clean filters and cartridges. Suntan lotion, baby oils, and dirt clog filters. If the filter is dirty, the water will not circulate enough and algae will form. Summer Breeze recommends annual cleaning of D.E. and card cartridge filters by taking apart and cleaning the internal filter elements. Dirty filter = dirty water!

Adequate Agua (Water)
Check your water level! Dry, hot days and splashing cause water loss. Nothing will ruin equipment faster than lack of water. Without proper water levels, pumps cannot function and water will not circulate. In Arizona, we lose 10 feet of water through evaporation per year!

Circulation
Make sure to run the pump enough. Pools need to filter and circulate water much more often in the summer months. Timers should be set to run as follows:

Summer: 8-12 hours a day
Winter: 4-8 hours a day

Algae will grow if the pump isn't run often enough. RUN THE PUMP IN THE EVENING, DURING "OFF PEAK" HOURS. (9pm - 9am)

Toys
Take toys out of the pool. Toys will find your skimmer, drains, and pool cleaners, causing blockage and restricting water flow. Kids are attracted to toys! Please protect your family by removing toys for the pool after swimming.

Sanitizer
Chemicals such as Chlorine, Muriatic Acid, and Stabilizer are critical when it comes to healthy pool water. Adequate chlorine levels need to be kept up on a weekly basis. Chlorine kills bacteria and prevents algae growth. Without chlorine, your pool will turn green before you know it. Muriatic acid (also called hydrochloric acid) helps control the pH and Alkalinity in your pool. If these get out of balance, you risk itchy skin, pool staining, and equipment corrosion. Stabilizer (conditioner) is important because it protects the chlorine in your pool from the sun. Chlorine is very unstable when exposed to heat and UV rays. Stabilizer works like sun tan lotion for chlorine. Chemicals should be added and tested weekly.

By following these F.A.C.T.S., you should have a refreshing, sparkling pool to enjoy all summer. Finally, if you have dogs, Whitmore recommends keeping them out of the pool as much as possible. Dogs zap chlorine from your pool and dog hair clogs drains, skimmers, pumps and filters. One dog swimming in your pool is equal to 10 adults!

If you have additional questions about pool cleaning or maintenance, contact:
Billy Whitmore
Summer Breeze Pool & Spa Services, LLC
(623) 866-3128

Only 2 weeks left to appeal 2010 Maricopa County property valuation

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 15:51:27 -0500

The 2010 Maricopa County Property Valuation notices went out on February 20, 2009. If you feel your home was improperly valued, you can appeal, but must do so by April 21, 2009.

You can obtain a “Petition for Review of Valuation” along with filing instructions from the Assessor's office via:

Phone – (602) 506-3406 – have your parcel ID number ready
Internet – www.maricopa.gov/Assessor/PropertyValueAppeals.aspx
Mail – the request form is on the back of your 2010 Property Valuation statement
In person – 301 W. Jefferson, #120, Phoenix, 85003

It's important to remember the Assessor's cover letter states that even though your assessment may decrease (and in some areas by quite a bit), this does not automatically reduce your tax bill. The assessment determines each property owner's share of the total obligation for their taxing jurisdiction.

If you need additional information on the appeals or want to check the change in median Full Cash Value (FCV) by city or zip code from 2009 to 2010, visit the Maricopa County Assessor's web page at www.maricopa.gov/assessor.

Great coffee house in Historic Downtown Glendale

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 19:33:53 -0500

If you're going to be in Historic Downtown Glendale this weekend for the 26th Annual Gibson Jazz & Blues Festival, I highly recommend making a stop at our favorite coffee stop - A Shot of Java.

And we're not the only ones that think the coffee - with drinks like their signature Cocamochanut Frappe - is great. A Shot of Java was voted Best Neighborhood Coffee House, West Valley, by the Phoenix New Times.

Relax with a book or play a board game. Free Wi-Fi is available. Or, come enjoy the music of local musicians that appear regularly.

Open daily, A Shot of Java is located behind Old Roma Pizza at 7003 North 58th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85301. Click here to check store hours.

The weather forecast for this weekend looks perfect for getting outdoors. For more information on the Festival visit: Gibson Jazz & Blues Festival

5 bedroom home on golf course in Villages at Queen Creek

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 23:18:48 -0500

Tim & Stephanie Pitel | HomeSmart Real Estate | 602-507-3685

21391 E Via Del Oro, Queen Creek, AZ

Golf course lot in Villages at Queen Creek

5BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $165,000

Year Built	2004
Sq Footage	2,335
Bedrooms	5
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	6,600 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Well laid out 5 bedroom 3 bath home. Guest room off the front entry has full private bath. Master bedroom split from secondary bedrooms. Located on the golf course, the view fence provides an unobstructed view of the course while relaxing on the covered patio. Separate formal living/dining and the high ceilings give the home spaciousness beyond it's 2,335 SF of living space.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	High/Vaulted ceiling
Walk-in closet	Family room	Living room
Dining room	Dishwasher	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Clubhouse	Swimming pool(s)	Tennis court(s)
Golf course	Playground

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior	Formal living/dining room
Kitchen	Master bath
Golf course lot	Street view

Contact info:

Tim & Stephanie Pitel

HomeSmart Real Estate

602-507-3685

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Mar 25, 2009, 9:07pm PDT

Former Model, Mountain Views

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:55:20 -0500

Former model home. Highly upgraded Executive tri-level floorplan. Four large bedrooms+den/gameroom (with walk-in closet, could be 5th bedroom). Formal living/dining rooms. Large kitchen, upgraded cabinets, tile counters, pantry, butcher block island. Large family room with cozy gas fireplace, wet bar. Huge master bedroom with French doors to balcony and stunning views of mountains. Spacious master bath with soaking tub; oversized closet with custom built-ins. Flagstone, travertine, carpeting & upgraded wood blinds. Laundry with cabinets, sink. Great yard for entertaining friends and family. Covered patio runs length of house, built-in BBQ, PebbleTec heated pool and grass area. Beautiful area, close to hiking/nature trails.

Home for sale in Glendale, AZ - RV parking, No HOA

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 16:07:00 -0600

The Beck and Pitel Team | RE/MAX Integrity, REALTORS® | 623-362-3074

3531 W. Angela Dr., Glendale, AZ

Block home, no HOA!

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $163,000

Year Built	1980
Sq Footage	1,505
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	9,198 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Well maintained home with 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths. Living room with vaulted ceiling. Large kitchen with breakfast bar opens to family room. Master bedroom with walk-in closet. Guest BR with walk-in closet, queen-size Murphy bed to stay. Covered patio extends across back of house, workshop area(air compressor to stay). Double garage,RV gate & slab, and block fence.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	High/Vaulted ceiling
Walk-in closet	Tile floor	Family room
Living room	Breakfast nook	Dishwasher
Stove/Oven	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

NOT a short sale or bank-owned home

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

The Beck and Pitel Team

RE/MAX Integrity, REALTORS®

623-362-3074

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Feb 10, 2009, 1:21pm PST

Great 4-bedroom home in Roseview - Surprise, AZ

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 22:01:19 -0600

The Beck and Pitel Team | RE/MAX Integrity, REALTORS® | info@valleyrealestatepros.com | 623-362-3074

13247 W Ventura St, Surprise, AZ

Large four bedroom home, fully landscaped backyard!

4BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $220,000

Year Built	2002
Sq Footage	2,220
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	5,499 sqft
HOA/Maint	$30 per month

DESCRIPTION

This wonderful home has so much to offer starting w/a welcoming front porch. Flex/living room off the entrance. Gas fireplace warms the family room which opens to breakfast area and kitchen. Well-designed kitchen includes island w/breakfast bar, lots of cabinets and counter space, built-in microwave and plant shelves. New garden door w/fixed side windows and built-in blinds opens to extended covered patio and large fully landscaped yard. Enjoy the stars under 13'x13' ramada with louvered cover. Spacious pantry/laundry room. Large bedrooms with walk-in closets. Double-door entry into huge master bedroom. Master bath has separate shower/garden tub, double sinks, large walk-in closet. Built-in cabinets in garage. Great location near schools, new shopping/dining, sports complex.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Tile floor
Family room	Living room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Washer	Dryer
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

The Beck and Pitel Team

RE/MAX Integrity, REALTORS®

info@valleyrealestatepros.com

623-362-3074

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jan 28, 2009, 7:45pm PST

Where else would you like to sell real estate?

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 13:52:01 -0600

As a Phoenix native, I've experienced plenty of sunshine and warm weather. I've only ever lived and worked in the Valley. While we have our share of stunning custom homes and historic districts, we also have a sea of tract subdivsions as far as the eye can see.

Over New Year's, my family took a ski trip to Telluride and we stayed in a beautiful town - Ouray, CO. It's also known as The Switzerland of America.

Strolling by the Victorian buildings on Main Street on New Year's Day, I had to pick up a real estate booklet. So different from the hot, dry desert I sell in, I wondered what it would be like to sell real estate there.

Agents - where else would you like to sell real estate? Where did you most enjoy selling real estate if you've worked in multiple markets?

Blitz Update and Last 2-day Turning Point Retreat

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 22:10:46 -0600

Greetings from Phoenix!

Today, the last 2-day Turning Point Retreat was wrapped up in Phoenix, Arizona. It was a great event and although a tad bit sad feeling knowing it was the last one, now we look forward to the new chapter as a members only event starting next year - January 8, 2009, in Seattle.

Be watching the Buffini and Company website for a promo video for The Blitz - the attendees at the Phoenix Turning Point Retreat got to participate in a segment of its taping.

If you haven't been to a Turning Point Retreat recently, remember that Brian is saying the first quarter of 2009 will be a pivotal time in our career. Rest up, enjoy the holidays, and be ready to start Blitzing on January 19 (I guess that's a great way to make sure I win the day on my birthday!).

Cheers,

Stephanie

Arizona Propositions 100 and 201 - protect our homes and prevent lawsuit abuse

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 10:12:55 -0500

Vote Yes on 100-Protect Our Homes

Proposition 100 not only collected enough signatures to get on the Arizona ballot, it also broke the previous initiative record by more than 70,000 signatures! Over 375,000 signatures were turned in-and only 230,000 were needed. Proposition 100 proposes an amendment to the Arizona Constitution which will forbid the imposition of a transfer tax at the sale of a property.

A home is often a person's most important asset and a transfer tax amounts to double taxation and punishes the homeowner by decreasing overall equity. No wonder it has such strong support.

To find additional information, or if you are interested in getting a yard sign or bumper stickers, visit www.protectourhomes.com.

Vote No on Proposition 201

Being involved in the business of home buying and selling on a daily basis, we have seen construction defects in homes. What may not be well known is the fact that there are existing laws in place to deal with this. An Arizona Statute currently provides that builders are responsible for repairing structural defects up to eight years after the home is built. The current "Notice to Cure" law allows for the homeowner to notify a builder of a defect and the builder has 90 days to correct it. This allows disputes to be handled out of court quickly, and often less expensively.

Touted as a "Homeowners' Bill of Rights," some parts of Proposition 201 that are questionable include:

It encourages frivolous lawsuits by allowing "prospective buyers" to sue
A seller cannot recover attorney's fees-even if lawsuit is frivolous
Raises the cost for everyone by requiring attorneys to be hired and prohibiting resolutions outside of court. This may lengthen the time to complete repairs while the dispute is going through the legal system
The arguments in favor of 201 say individual homeowners (sellers) are not affected, but the actual verbiage regarding sellers and improvements on a home does not seem clear enough to protect individual homeowners (sellers)
If you're an agent, the way the definition of seller is written, we can be lumped in there, too.

Apparently, it was written by a trial lawyer in California without public comment. If it was specifically written to target homebuilders, it should say so. Instead it is vague enough that home builders, homeowners and real estate agents could all be target of lawsuits with little protection from frivolous suits and no ability to recover costs if we win.

Great location, Scottsdale, Arizona

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 12:42:37 -0500

The Beck and Pitel Team | RE/MAX Integrity, REALTORS® | 623-362-3074

602 North 73rd Place, Scottsdale, AZ

Large corner lot, tons of storage and built-ins

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $229,000

Year Built	1961
Sq Footage	1,377
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	1 Covered spaces
Lot Size	11,300 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Well maintained home/original owner! Family room/breakfast area overlooking covered patio and large backyard with several fruit trees. Kitchen with gas cooktop, wall oven, breakfast bar and pantry, tile flooring. Hall bath updated with tile vanity top and tub/shower area. Master bedroom w/ walk-in closet.Original built-ins in family room and two bedrooms including desks. Easy access to the 202 and 101.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Family room
Living room	Dishwasher	Stove/Oven
Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Large Corner Lot

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

The Beck and Pitel Team

RE/MAX Integrity, REALTORS®

623-362-3074

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 30, 2008, 10:21am PDT

You can do more than just vote

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:59:01 -0500

You can get involved!

I’ve seen this quote twice in a matter of days:

“All that is necessary for evil to succeed is for good men to do nothing.”

~Edmund Burke

This group has fantastic posts and is the one I check first. I see many of the same names on blog entries and comments - and see how passionate you are about your values.

After helping a friend of ours with his campaign for the state legislature, my husband and I asked him how we can get more involved. He recommended we attend our district’s monthly meetings and not long after, we were appointed Precinct Committeemen for our local Republican Party.

Who is a Precinct Committeeman? If you can’t find information for your area, you can reference the Maricopa County Republican Party’s website (www.maricopagop.org):

“A PRECINCT COMMITTEEMAN IS THE ONLY PARTY OFFICIAL DIRECTLY ELECTED BY THE REPUBLICAN VOTERS.

A committeeman and his or her fellow committeemen represent the Republican party to the people. He or she is a primary contact between voters, candidates and elected officials. It is his or her job to make sure the Republicans in their assigned precincts are informed and prepared to get their vote to the ballot box.”

This has been a great experience because we meet and get to know our local elected officials. The meetings help us stay more informed and we get to hear from guest speakers such as candidates for office, the clerk of our county’s superior court, the state treasurer, the county assessor, etc. They are often lively meetings!

If you’re conservative, Tom DeLay has started a grassroots organization called the Coalition for a Conservative Majority (CCM). They started with eight chapters this year and plan to expand into all 50 states over the next few years. This group is about fighting for conservative issues and values, not candidates, and holding candidates accountable on the issues. You can learn more about the group at: www.ccmajority.com.

If you want to get out and fight for your beliefs, you don’t have to go to Washington, DC to do so. Look into the many roles that need to be filled in your local area.

"Kill Him" allegation (by a reporter) unfounded (by Secret Service investigation)

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 21:14:33 -0500

The Palin Rally "Kill Him" allegation was unfounded based on an investigation by the Secret Service. They take all threats seriously and couldn't find anyone else that heard the threat, including other agents and police at the rally. Surely, if it happened, it would be on tape and posted to YouTube by now. But, the reporter's editor won't back down from the "facts":

http://www.timesleader.com/news/breakingnews/Secret_Service_says_Kill_him_allegation_unfounded_.html

G.A.I.N. Event This Saturday, October 18, 2008

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 18:58:13 -0500

To show support for the efforts of those helping with the fight against crime, please come out this weekend for G.A.I.N. - Getting Arizona Involved in Neighborhoods.

Arizona's answer to National Night Out, G.A.I.N. is a day to celebrate crime prevention through community involvement. It is also a day the police show their appreciation for those that support efforts to fight against crime day to day in their communities. Events can include specialty police visits from the Bomb Squad and K-9 units.

Times and locations vary. Contact your neighborhood's Block Watch coordinator for more information or call 602-495-0597. To find out who the Community Action Officer is for your precinct visit: http://phoenix.gov/police/bwp1.html

If you live in North Phoenix, one G.A.I.N. event will be held from 3:00-6:00 PM at Paseo Highlands Park, located at 35th Avenue and Pinnacle Peak Road.

Hello, Remember Me?

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 23:17:44 -0500

This was handed out at a Chamber of Commerce luncheon recently and I want to share in case you haven't seen it, or haven't seen it in awhile.

Hello. Remember me? Some people call me Old Glory, others call me the Star-Spangled Banner, but whatever you call me, I am your flag, the flag of the United States of America.

Something has been bothering me, so I thought I might talk it over with you, because it is about you and me. I remember some time ago, people would line up on both sides of the street to watch the parade, and naturally I was leading every one, proudly waving in the breeze.

When your Daddy saw me coming, he immediately removed his hat and placed it against his left shoulder so that his hand was directly over his heart, remember? And you, I remember, were standing there, straight as a soldier. You didn't have a hat, but you were giving the right salute. Remember your little sister? Not to be outdone, she was saluting the same as you with her right hand over her heart, remember?

What happened? I'm still the same old flag. Oh, I've added a few more stars since you were a boy, and a lot more blood has been shed since those parades of long ago. But now, somehow, I don't feel as proud as I used to feel. When I come down your street, you just stand there with your hands in your pockets. You may give me a small glance, and then you look away. I see children running around you shouting; they don't seem to know who I am. I saw one man take his hat off, then he looked around, and when he didn't see anyone else take off their hat, he quickly put his on again.

Is it a sin to be patriotic today? Have you forgotten what I stand for and where I have been and the men that have fought for the stars that I carry on my back? Take a look at the Memorial Honor Rolls and see the names of those patriotic Americans who gave their lives to keep this republic free...One Nation Under God...when you salute me, you are actually saluting them.

Well, it won't be long until I'll be coming down your street again. So when you see me, please stand straight and place your hand over your heart, and I'll know that you remembered. I'll salute you by waving back. I'll know that...YOU REMEMBERED

Author Unknown

Thanks to Image West Design and Print of Phoenix, Arizona, for sharing this.

Gated Community - 8449 W Purdue Ave, Peoria, AZ

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:58:03 -0500

The Beck and Pitel Team | RE/MAX Integrity, REALTORS® | info@valleyrealestatepros.com | 623-362-3079

8449 W Purdue Ave, Peoria, AZ

Gated Community!

4BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $315,000

Year Built	2002
Sq Footage	2,945
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	3 Car garage
Lot Size	7,996 sqft
HOA/Maint	$75 per month

DESCRIPTION

Immaculate home in a gated community of fine Courtland homes. This highly upgraded home includes: Corian counters, cherry cabinets, wood floors, copper backsplash, slate patio, and travertine tile in the bathroom. The front entry includes a custom courtyard that is perfect for cool evening entertaining. There is a den/office with built-ins, and the tandem garage with full epoxy is a handyman's dream workshop. The full grass back yard is the perfect place for the kids and pets to play. Great location close to the Loop 101 and Hwy 60. This four bedroom home is like new. Come see it and enjoy!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Hardwood floor	Tile floor	Family room
Living room	Bonus/Rec room	Office/Den
Dining room	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Laundry area - inside
Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Playground

Gated property

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Cul-de-sac

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

The Beck and Pitel Team

RE/MAX Integrity, REALTORS®

info@valleyrealestatepros.com

623-362-3079

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 12, 2008, 10:42pm PDT

Oktoberfest & Fall Festival, Phoenix, AZ - Food, Rides, Auction, Car Show

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 21:01:59 -0500

Looking for something fun to do October 17-19 in North Phoenix?

Come out to the Oktoberfest and Fall Carnival! Ride tickets can be purchased in advance for 1/2 price!

Food Booths:

American

German

Indian Fry Bread

Italian

Mexican

Pizza

and Dessert

5th Annual Arizona Thunderbird Birthday Party Car Show on Friday, October 17, from 6-10 PM. All makes and models welcome. No reservations needed - parking available for 50 cars on a first-come, first-served basis.

Music:

Friday - Redwood, Country/Western, Rhythm and Blues

Saturday at Noon - Arizona Accordion Festival

Saturday 4-5 PM - Hurricajuns

Saturday 6 PM - Latin Spirit

Where: St. Luke's Catholic Church - 19644 North 7th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85027

New Listing! Great home at a great price - 8963 W. Melinda Lane, Peoria, Arizona

Stephanie Pitel (HomeSmart, Phoenix, AZ) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 13:17:12 -0500

The Beck and Pitel Team | RE/MAX Integrity, REALTORS® | info@valleyrealestatepros.com | 623-362-3074

8963 W Melinda Lane, Peoria, AZ

Single-level, 4 bedrooms, pool, 3-car garage

4BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $259,000

Year Built	1999
Sq Footage	1,938
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	3 Car garage
Lot Size	7,800 sqft
HOA/Maint	$36 per month

DESCRIPTION

Not a short sale or bank owned. Beautifully maintained home with designer touches throughout. This home features formal living/dining room. Family room w/ built-in entertainment niche & open to kitchen with island, oversized pantry, bay-window breakfast area overlooking lovely backyard and pool area. Tile flooring throughout except LR/DR, bedrooms and den. 4th bedroom is used as den with double doors and is open to entry/living room.Large master bedroom w/crown molding. Designer paint and custom window coverings add perfect touch. Pebble-tec pool w/water feature and raised seating area w/firepit (pool fencing available). Triple garage w/workbench and cabinets. Near schools, shopping and neighborhood parks.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Tile floor	Family room	Living room
Dining room	Breakfast nook	Dishwasher
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Laundry area - inside
Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard	Swimming pool

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

The Beck and Pitel Team

RE/MAX Integrity, REALTORS®

info@valleyrealestatepros.com

623-362-3074

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 6, 2008, 9:12am PDT